bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multihost Bartonella parasites display covert host specificity even when transmitted by generalist vectors
Authors: Withenshaw Susan M. , Devevey Godefroy , Pedersen Amy B. , Fenton Andy
Published: July 2016

Many parasites infect multiple sympatric host species, and there is a general assumption that parasite transmission between co‐occurring host species is commonplace. Such between‐species transmission could be key to parasite persistence within a disease reservoir and is consequently an emerging focus for disease control.

However, while a growing body of theory indicates the potential importance of between‐species transmission for parasite persistence, conclusive empirical evidence from natural communities is lacking, and the assumption that between‐species transmission is inevitable may therefore be wrong.

We investigated the occurrence of between‐species transmission in a well‐studied multihost parasite system. We identified the flea‐borne Bartonella parasites infecting sympatric populations of Apodemus sylvaticus (wood mice) and Myodes glareolus (bank voles) in the UK and confirmed that several Bartonella species infect both rodent species. However, counter to previous knowledge, genetic characterization of these parasites revealed covert host specificity, where each host species is associated with a distinct assemblage of genetic variants, indicating that between‐species transmission is rare.

Limited between‐species transmission could result from rare encounters between one host species and the parasites infecting another and/or host–parasite incompatibility. We investigated the occurrence of such encounter and compatibility barriers by identifying the flea species associated with each rodent host, and the Bartonella variants carried by individual fleas. We found that the majority of fleas were host‐generalists but the assemblage of Bartonella variants in fleas tended to reflect the assemblage of Bartonella variants in the host species they were collected from, thus providing evidence of encounter barriers mediated by limited between‐species flea transfer. However, we also found several fleas that were carrying variants never found in the host species from which they were collected, indicating some degree of host–pathogen incompatibility when barriers to encounter are overcome.

Overall, these findings challenge our default perceptions of multihost parasite persistence, as they show that despite considerable overlaps in host species ecology, separate populations of the same parasite species may circulate and persist independently in different sympatric host species. This questions our fundamental understanding of endemic transmission dynamics and the control of infection within natural reservoir communities.
Fixed dose of long‐acting erythropoietic stimulating agents at higher frequency improves appetite, reduces inflammation and corrects anaemia in patients on haemodialysis
Authors: Liu Wen‐Sheng , Chu Da‐Chen , Chan Hsiang‐Lin , Li Szu‐Yuan , Liu Chih‐Kuang , Yang Chih‐Yu , Chen Yu‐Wei , Lee Pui‐Ching , Lai Yen‐Ting , Lin Chih‐Ching
Published: July 2016

Anaemia is an important issue in patients undergoing haemodialysis. We aimed to identify a better dosing schedule of a fixed monthly dose of continuous erythropoietin receptor activator (CERA) in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) on haemodialysis. The CERA dosing schedule included 100 μg once monthly for 2 months, 50 μg twice monthly for 2 months and then 100 μg once monthly for two months. The effectiveness was determined by comparing haematocrit, nutritional status (serum protein and albumin) and inflammatory markers (tumour necrosis factor (TNF)‐α, interleukin (IL)‐1, IL‐6 and Hepcidin) at the beginning of the study with those at the end of the study. Forty‐seven out of 67 patients completed the trial. At the end, haematocrit was significantly higher (34.51 vs 33.22%, P=.004), levels of inflammatory markers were significantly lower (TNF‐α (30.71 vs 35.67 ng/mL, P=.007), IL‐6 (5.12 vs 7.95 ng/mL, P=.033), hepcidin (60.39 vs 74.39 ng/mL, P=.002)), blood glucose levels were significantly lower (112.40 vs 139.02 mg/dL, P=.003) and albumin was significantly higher (4.11 vs 3.98, P=.001). Patients with a better than average response had a lower initial number of red blood cells (3.3 vs 3.6 × 106/mm3, P=.025) and a lower IL‐1 (3.8 vs 12.9 ng/mL, P=.01). They also had significantly lower blood glucose levels at the end. (91.3 vs 124.0 mg/dL, P=.03). We demonstrate that a fixed monthly dose of CERA at a twice monthly dosing schedule improves nutrition, reduces the inflammation and corrects anaemia in patients on haemodialysis. This finding may provide a new strategy for treating CKD‐related anaemia.
Sex‐linked differences in the course of chronic kidney disease and congestive heart failure: a study in 5/6 nephrectomized Ren‐2 transgenic hypertensive rats with volume overload induced using aorto‐caval fistula
Authors: Červenka Luděk , Škaroupková Petra , Kompanowska‐Jezierska Elzbieta , Sadowski Janusz
Published: July 2016

The role of hypertension and the renin‐angiotensin system (RAS) in sex‐related differences in the course of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and congestive heart failure (CHF) remain unclear, especially when the two diseases are combined. In male and female Ren‐2 transgenic rats (TGR), a model of hypertension with activation of endogenous RAS, CKD was induced by 5/6 renal mass reduction (5/6 NX) and CHF was elicited by volume overload achieved by creation of an aorto‐caval fistula (ACF). The primary aim of the study was to examine long‐term CKD‐ and CHF‐related mortality, especially in animals with CKD and CHF combined, with particular interest in the potential sex‐related differences. The follow‐up period was 23 weeks after the first intervention (5/6 NX). We found, first, that TGR did not exhibit sexual dimorphism in the course of 5/6 NX‐induced CKD. Second, in contrast, TGR exhibited important sex‐related differences in the course of ACF‐induced CHF‐related mortality: intact female TGR showed higher survival rate than male TGR. This situation is reversed in the course of combined 5/6 NX‐induced CKD and ACF‐induced CHF‐related mortality: intact female TGR exhibited poorer survival than male TGR. Third, the survival rate in animals with combined 5/6 NX‐induced CKD and ACF‐induced CHF was significantly worsened as compared with rat groups that were exposed to ‘single organ disease’. Collectively, our present results clearly show that CKD aggravates long‐term mortality of animals with CHF. In addition, TGR exhibit remarkable sexual dimorphism with respect to CKD‐ and CHF‐related mortality, especially in animals with combined CKD and CHF.
Germination characteristics of five coexisting neotropical species of Acacia in seasonally dry Chaco forests in Argentina
Authors: Venier Paula , Cabido Marcelo , Funes Guillermo
Published: July 2016

At a regional scale, habitat heterogeneity can play a very important role in allowing the coexistence of species through their specialization in the use of patches differing in environmental conditions. Here, we explore responses of seed germination to environmental and anthropogenic factors of five Acacia species that co‐occur in subtropical dry Chaco forests in central Argentina and the habitat heterogeneity of this region. Open and closed sites were characterized in terms of environmental factors by measuring temperature, water content, light quality and soil conditions. Through germination experiments, we evaluated seed responses to both environmental (temperature, light quality and water stress) and anthropogenic factors (fire and cattle). Data were analyzed through a univariate analysis (generalized linear model, GLM) followed by a multivariate analysis (principal component analysis, PCA) in order to obtain a general pattern of Acacia seed responses. Some differences were detected among the Acacia species at the species level and the multivariate analysis (PCA) showed a general pattern with two groups of species differing in germination characteristics: A. aroma, A. caven and A. atramentaria had a higher number of hard seeds after fire and seed consumption by cattle, whereas A. praecox and A. gilliesii showed a reduced time to germinate under different environmental conditions. The multivariate analysis suggests a regenerative niche differentiation between two groups of Acacia species. The habitat heterogeneity described in the dry Chaco forests from central Argentina could facilitate the coexistence of the five Acacia species at the landscape and regional levels.
Who counts, what counts: representation and accountability in water governance in the Upper Comoé sub‐basin, Burkina Faso
Authors: Roncoli Carla , Dowd‐Uribe Brian , Orlove Ben , West Colin Thor , Sanon Moussa
Published: July 2016

This article examines the unfolding of integrated water resource management (IWRM) reforms in southwest Burkina Faso, where water resources are subject to conflicting claims by a diversity of users. We first describe the establishment a local water user committee, showing how choices regarding composition and operations grant varying levels of recognition to different stakeholders. We then discuss the implications for key dimensions of decentralized governance, namely representation and accountability. In particular we focus on: (a) how the interplay of political agendas and policy disconnects shapes the committee's viability and credibility and (b) how tensions between techno‐scientific and local knowledge affect participation and transparency. We argue that in contexts defined by contentious politics and neo‐patrimonial practices, representativeness is better ensured by the direct inclusion of user groups rather than elected officials. Though limited discretionary power, information access, and technical capabilities of committee members inhibit accountability, rural producers uphold their claims through social mobilization and reliance on local knowledge. Recognizing the opportunities offered by the country's recent democratic turn, we formulate recommendations aimed at addressing structural drivers and enabling citizen agency in decentralized water governance. At the same time, further research is needed on local people's understandings of representation and accountability, to ensure that they are involved in institutional design and practices in ways that affirm what they value and what they know.
Inhibition of 2‐Amino‐1‐methyl‐6‐phenylimidazo [4,5‐b]pyridine (PhIP) Formation by Alkoxy Radical Scavenging of Flavonoids and Their Quantitative Structure–Activity Relationship in a Model System
Authors: Yu Chundi , Shao Zeping , Liu Bing , Zhang Yan , Wang Shuo
Published: July 2016

The inhibitory effect of 10 flavonoids on the formation of 2‐amino‐1‐methyl‐6‐phenylimidazo[4,5‐b]pyridine (PhIP) in a creatinine–phenylalanine model system was investigated through electronic spin resonance and a quantitative structure–activity relationship. Alkoxy radicals were observed during the heating process, providing evidence for a radical pathway in the formation of PhIP. The alkoxy radical scavenging capability of the flavonoids was proportional to their inhibition of PhIP formation (IC50). We deduced that flavonoid inhibition of PhIP generation occurs via scavenging of alkoxy radicals during the heating process. Multiple linear regression and partial least squares models were used to elucidate the relationship between PhIP inhibition activity and structure characteristics of the flavonoids. The lipo–hydro partition coefficient and molecular fractional polar surface area of the flavonoids were found to be predictive of the inhibition effect.
Preprocedural but not periprocedural high‐sensitive Troponin T levels predict outcome in patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve implantation
Authors: Köhler Wiebke M. , Freitag‐Wolf Sandra , Lambers Moritz , Lutz Matthias , Niemann Philip Maximilian , Petzina Rainer , Lutter Georg , Bramlage Peter , Frey Norbert , Frank Derk
Published: July 2016

Aim

Risk assessment of patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) remains difficult. Biomarkers have been shown to provide potential prognostic information. Here, we aimed to analyze whether the biomarker high‐sensitivity Troponin T (hsTNT) could be used to improve risk stratification.

Method

We prospectively enrolled 267 patients undergoing TAVI. Biomarkers (hsTNT and NTproBNP) were measured 1 day before, and 3 and 7 days postprocedure. All possible prognostic factors upon survival time were analyzed by Cox regression analysis.

Results

A total of 259 patients (mean age 82±6.1 years) were available for complete follow‐up. The median Logistic EuroSCORE (Log ES) and Log ES II were 21.16% (Q1=13.92; Q3=34.27) and 6.42% (Q1=3.89; Q3=11.07), respectively. Median follow‐up was 290 (Q1=88; Q3=529) days. A total of 71 deaths occurred during follow‐up, and the 30‐day mortality was 5.8%. Median baseline hsTNT was 27.4 pg/mL (Q1=16.2; Q3=46 pg/mL). From all potential mortality‐associated factors, only preprocedural hsTNT level (P=.001), elevated Log ES (P=.03) as well as acute kidney injury (P<.001) and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) (P=.039) emerged as independent prognostic parameters for adverse outcome. We also tested whether the Valve Academic Research Consortium‐2 (VARC‐II) cutoff for myocardial damage (hsTNT peak value exceeding 15× the upper reference limit + at least 50% increase) was of prognostic relevance. At 72‐hours post‐TAVI, 36.2% of the patients matched these VARC‐II criteria of myocardial damage. However, these patients did not display a difference in survival compared to patients without significant myocardial injury.

Conclusion

Elevated preprocedural hsTNT represents an independent risk predictor of all‐cause death while periprocedural hsTNT elevation failed to show prognostic relevance.
Factors Explaining Variation in Alcohol Use Disorder Prevalence Across Border and Nonborder Communities in Texas
Authors: Zemore Sarah E. , Cherpitel Cheryl J. , Ye Yu , Borges Guilherme , Li Libo , Wallisch Lynn S.
Published: July 2016

Background

U.S. border populations have been found to be at high risk for alcohol problems. However, results from the U.S.–Mexico Study on Alcohol and Related Conditions (UMSARC) revealed surprisingly large variation in alcohol outcomes even among Texas border sites, with alcohol use disorder (AUD) prevalence ~1.5 to 1.6 times greater in the border city of Laredo compared to both San Antonio and the border site of McAllen/Brownsville. Because a better understanding of this variation is important to identifying environmental influences on AUD, we developed and tested a conceptual model addressing variation in AUD prevalence across Texas UMSARC sites.

Methods

Surveys involved in‐person, household interviews with Mexican‐origin residents of the Texas border cities Laredo (n = 751) and McAllen/Brownsville (n = 814), with San Antonio as an off‐border comparison (n = 771). Interviews assessed past‐year DSM‐5 AUD; past‐year heavy drinking; coping and enhancement motives; and 7 indicators of substance use climate and stress exposure hypothesized to mediate site effects. Analyses, conducted separately by gender, included regressions and structural equation modeling with Mplus.

Results

Preliminary analyses revealed that site effects on AUD prevalence were, unexpectedly, exclusive to men, and that Laredan men were similar to McAllen/Brownsville men on demographics, acculturation, and cross‐border mobility. However, sites differed dramatically on most of the hypothesized risk factors. Structural equation models confirmed that site effects on AUD were partially mediated via effects of site on indicators of a permissive climate (i.e., permissive drinking norms, high drug availability) and stress exposures (i.e., high exposure to violence/crime, low family support), and via downstream effects on drinking motives and heavy drinking.

Conclusions

Findings of very high rates of past‐12‐month AUD among Laredan men (35%) suggest the possibility of significant heterogeneity even within demographically similar border areas and underline the need for additional study of the border region. Findings regarding our conceptual model suggest that this model may constitute a useful initial framework for future research on alcohol problems at the border. However, additional research using representative samples is needed to confirm and expand this model to comprehensively address relevant individual and community factors.
Preferred practice location at medical school commencement strongly determines graduates' rural preferences and work locations
Authors: Herd Marie S. , Bulsara Max K. , Jones Michael P. , Mak Donna B.
Published: July 2016

Objective

To identify factors influencing whether Australian medical graduates prefer to, or actually, work rurally.

Design

Secondary analysis of longitudinal data from Medical Schools Outcomes Database (MSOD) using univariate and multivariate logistic regression.

Setting

Twenty Australian medical schools.

Participants

Australian or New Zealand citizens and Australian permanent residents who completed MSOD questionnaires between 2006 and 2013.

Main outcome measures

Preferred and actual work locations 1 (PGY1) and 3 (PGY3) years postgraduation.

Results

Of 20 784 participants, 4028 completed a PGY1 or PGY3 questionnaire. Self‐reported preference for rural practice location at medical school commencement was the most consistent independent predictor of whether a graduate would have a rural location preference at PGY1 (odds ratio (OR) 6.07, 95% confidence interval (CI) 4.91–7.51) and PGY3 (OR 7.95, 95% CI 4.93–12.84), and work rurally during PGY1 (OR 1.38, 95% CI 1.01–1.88) and PGY3 (OR 1.86, 95% CI 1.30–2.64). The effect of preferred practice location at medical school commencement is independent of, and enhances the effect of, rural background. Graduates of graduate‐entry programs or with dependent children were less likely to have worked rurally during PGY1 and PGY3 respectively.

Conclusion

The most consistent factor associated with rural preferences and work location was students' preferred location of practice at medical school commencement; this association is independent of, and enhances the effect of, rural background. Better understanding of what determines rural preference at medical school commencement and its influence on rural workplace outcomes beyond PGY3 is required to inform Australian medical school selection policies and rural health curricula.
Retrospective analysis of tigecycline shows that it may be an option for children with severe infections
Authors: Zhu Zheng‐Yi , Yang Ju‐Fei , Ni Ying‐Hua , Ye Wei‐Feng , Wang Jue , Wu Miao‐Lian
Published: July 2016

Aim

This study assessed the efficacy and safety of tigecycline in children with life‐threatening infections.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the clinical records of patients treated with tigecycline from June 2012 to May 2014 in a Chinese tertiary centre.

Results

The study comprised 24 patients (14 male) with a median age of four years (range, 50 days–12 years). The most frequently isolated microorganism, most common isolation site and type of infection were Acinetobacter baumannii, tracheal aspirate fluid and ventilator‐associated pneumonia, respectively. Tigecycline was administered at a loading dose of 1.5 or 2.0 mg/kg and 1.0 mg/kg every 12 hours after that. The average duration of treatment was 11.6 ± 5.8 days. The clinical response and microbiological eradication rate were 37.5% and 29.2%, respectively. Six of the patients we studied (25.0%) died, and three of these deaths were considered to be infection related. Adverse drug reactions were identified in four patients (16.7%) during the treatment, including abnormal liver function, prolonged prothrombin time and diarrhoea.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that tigecycline may be an option for children with severe infections. However, more prospective, controlled trials are required to objectively evaluate the efficacy and safety of tigecycline in children.
IL‐17A‐producing CD30+ Vδ1 T cells drive inflammation‐induced cancer progression
Authors: Kimura Yoshitaka , Nagai Nao , Tsunekawa Naoki , Sato‐Matsushita Marimo , Yoshimoto Takayuki , Cua Daniel J. , Iwakura Yoichiro , Yagita Hideo , Okada Futoshi , Tahara Hideaki , Saiki Ikuo , Irimura Tatsuro , Hayakawa Yoshihiro
Published: July 2016

Although it has been suspected that inflammation is associated with increased tumor metastasis, the exact type of immune response required to initiate cancer progression and metastasis remains unknown. In this study, by using an in vivo tumor progression model in which low tumorigenic cancer cells acquire malignant metastatic phenotype after exposure to inflammation, we found that IL‐17A is a critical cue for escalating cancer cell malignancy. We further demonstrated that the length of exposure to an inflammatory microenvironment could be associated with acquiring greater tumorigenicity and that IL‐17A was critical for amplifying such local inflammation, as observed in the production of IL‐1β and neutrophil infiltration following the cross‐talk between cancer and host stromal cells. We further determined that γδT cells expressing Vδ1 semi‐invariant TCR initiate cancer‐promoting inflammation by producing IL‐17A in an MyD88/IL‐23‐dependent manner. Finally, we identified CD30 as a key molecule in the inflammatory function of Vδ1T cells and the blockade of this pathway targeted this cancer immune‐escalation process. Collectively, these results reveal the importance of IL‐17A‐producing CD30+ Vδ1T cells in triggering inflammation and orchestrating a microenvironment leading to cancer progression.
Thiol/disulphide homeostasis in Bell's palsy as a novel pathogenetic marker
Authors: Babademez M.A. , Gul F. , Kale H. , Muderris T. , Bayazit Y. , Ergin M. , Erel O. , Kiris M.
Published: July 2016

Objectives

The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between Bell's palsy and a novel oxidative stress parameter, thiol/disulphide homeostasis.

Design

A prospective study evaluating oxidative stress in Bell's palsy.

Setting

This research took place in the department of Otorhinolaryngology, Ataturk Training and Research Hospital.

Participants

Totally, 77 patients with Bell's palsy and 38 healthy controls were included in this study.

Main outcome measures

The blood levels of total and native thiol and disulphide activity were assessed, and their levels were compared in the patients and controls.

Results

There were statistically significant differences between the patients and controls regarding thiol/disulphide parameters. The mean native thiol and total thiol were significantly lower and disulphide levels were higher in the Bell's palsy than controls. On binary logistic regression analysis, the created model showed 45.3% variation. The cut‐off value was 18.95 for disulphides.

Conclusion

Native and total thiol levels were low in the Bell's palsy. This metabolic disturbance may have a role in the pathogenesis of Bell's palsy.
Is it time to rethink the rule of total mesorectal excision? A prospective radiological and pathological study in 49 consecutive patients with mid‐rectal cancer
Authors: Guedj N. , Zappa M. , Maggiori L. , Bertin C. , Hennequin C. , Panis Y.
Published: July 2016

Aim

Total mesorectal excision (TME) after neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy is the standard treatment for T3–T4 and/or N+ mid‐rectal tumours, regardless of the exact tumour level. This leads to optimal oncological results but possible impaired functional results. Reducing rectal excision could reduce the functional drawbacks. This study prospectively assessed the risk of N+ or other mesorectal tumour deposit (OTD) below the tumour level by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) performed after chemoradiotherapy and pathological examination of the TME specimen.

Method

Consecutive patients with mid‐rectal cancer who underwent TME after chemoradiotherapy were included. A prospective evaluation by postchemoradiotherapy MRI and pathological examination was performed to assess the location of N+ nodes and/or OTDs.

Results

Of 49 consecutive patients, 27 (55%) presented with nodes on postchemoradiotherapy MRI. However, only 12 nodes (size 2–4 mm) in 9 patients (18%) were under the tumour level. On pathological examination, 717 total lymph nodes were found, with 37 N+ and 22 OTD. According to the tumour level: (i) above tumour level, 21/453 nodes were N+ and 6 OTD; (ii) at tumour level, 16/166 nodes were N+ and 15 OTD; (iii) below tumour level, 0/98 nodes (0%) was N+ and only 1 OTD (2%) was noted at 2 cm below tumour level.

Conclusion

After chemoradiotherapy, N+ and/or OTD located under the level of the rectal cancer seems to be a very rare event. A postchemoradiotherapy MRI could help detect such patients. For others patients, conservation of the lower rectum with only a subtotal mesorectal excision could possibly improve function.
Consequences of simulated car driving at constant high speed on the sensorimotor control of leg muscles and the braking response
Authors: Jammes Yves , Behr Michel , Weber Jean P. , Berdah Stephane
Published: July 2016

Due to the increase in time spent seated in cars, there is a risk of fatigue of the leg muscles which adjust the force exerted on the accelerator pedal. Any change in their sensorimotor control could lengthen the response to emergency braking. Fourteen healthy male subjects (mean age: 42 ± 4 years) were explored. Before and after a 1‐h driving trial at 120 km h−1, we measured the braking response, the maximal leg extension and foot inversion forces, the tonic vibratory response (TVR) in gastrocnemius medialis (GM) and tibialis anterior (TA) muscles to explore the myotatic reflex, and the Hoffmann reflex (H‐reflex). During driving, surface electromyograms (EMGs) of GM and TA were recorded and the ratio between high (H) and low (L) EMG energies allowed to evaluate the recruitment of high‐ and low‐frequency motor unit discharges. During driving, the H/L ratio decreased in TA, whereas modest and often no significant H/L changes occurred in GM muscle. After driving, the maximal foot inversion force decreased (−19%), while the leg extension force did not vary. Reduced TVR amplitude (−29%) was measured in TA, but no H‐reflex changes were noted. The braking reaction time was not modified after the driving trial. Driving at constant elevated speed reduced the myotatic reflex and the recruitment of motor units in TA muscle. The corresponding changes were rarely present in the GM muscle that plays a key role in the braking response, and this could explain the absence of a reduced braking reaction time.
The preservative effect of Thai propolis extract on the viability of human periodontal ligament cells
Authors: Prueksakorn Attaporn , Puasiri Subin , Ruangsri Supanigar , Makeudom Anupong , Sastraruji Thanapat , Krisanaprakornkit Suttichai , Chailertvanitkul Pattama
Published: July 2016

Background/Aim

Tooth avulsion causes an injury to the periodontal ligament (PDL). The success of tooth replantation depends on the quantity and quality of PDL cells. The aim of this study was to examine the preservative and proliferative effects of Thai propolis extract, previously shown to exert anti‐inflammatory and antioxidant activities, on human PDL cells.

Materials and methods

Ninety‐six premolars were left to air dry for 30 min and stored in Hank's balanced salt solution (HBSS), milk, or various concentrations of propolis extract from 0.25 to 10 mg ml−1 for 3 h. PDL cells were isolated by collagenase and trypsin digestion, and their viability was determined by a trypan blue dye exclusion assay. PDL tissues were also scraped off the root surface and cultured to determine cell growth and morphology. The alamarBlue® and BrdU assays were performed to determine the cytotoxic and proliferative effects of the extract on cultured PDL cells, respectively.

Results

A non‐toxic dose of 2.5 mg ml−1 of propolis extract yielded the greatest percentage of cell viability (78.84 ± 3.34%), which was significantly higher than those of the other concentrations (P < 0.001). Nevertheless, this percentage was not significantly different from that of HBSS (80.14 ± 2.44%; P = 1.00), but was significantly higher than that of milk (71.27 ± 2.79%; P < 0.001). The cells grown from PDL explants looked like fibroblasts. However, 2.5 mg ml−1 of the extract did not induce PDL cell proliferation.

Conclusion

Thai propolis extract at 2.5 mg ml−1 appears to be the most effective dose for preserving the viability of PDL cells, and this was comparable to HBSS.
Smartphone App as an aid in the emergency management of avulsed teeth
Authors: Al‐Musawi Ala , Al‐Sane Mona , Andersson Lars
Published: July 2016

Background/Aim

The initial response by bystanders to an avulsed tooth is a significant factor that can affect its survival and long‐term outcome. This study was to assess the knowledge of emergency management of tooth avulsion in a group of schoolteachers and to compare the effects of three different educational interventions.

Methods

Baseline knowledge was assessed using a questionnaire developed for this study. The same questionnaire was used to test changes in the knowledge level following each educational intervention. A convenience sample of elementary and intermediate school teachers (n = 87) participated in this study. Teachers were divided into three groups: Group 1 (Lecture only) was given a 30‐min lecture on the emergency management of tooth avulsion. Their knowledge was assessed immediately after the lecture. Group 2 (Lecture and App), the same lecture was given, but participants also had access to a smartphone App, Dental Trauma App (Dental Trauma AB, Linköping, Sweden), when assessed on their knowledge after the lecture. Group 3 (App), this group was only given the smartphone App to explore and had access to that when being assessed.

Results

All three interventions increased the knowledge of tooth avulsion management. A marked increase in the knowledge, regardless of the type of intervention, was observed in the following areas: handling the tooth on the ground (16–96.8%); holding the tooth while being cleansed (19.1–62.5%); and on the best storage medium (10.1–59.3%). Participants using the App only had a significantly higher mean score than participants receiving the lecture only (group 3; P = 0.019) and participants subjected to both Lecture and App (group 1; P = 0.000).

Conclusion

The Dental Trauma App alone is an effective means of providing accessible knowledge to guide laypeople in managing tooth avulsion, and it can be superior to a lecture‐based delivery of information.
Youth mental ill health and secondary school completion in Australia: time to act
Authors: Bowman Siann , McKinstry Carol , McGorry Patrick
Published: July 2016

Aim

This paper reviews the evidence of youth mental ill health and its impact on secondary school educational attainment.

Methods

This narrative review presents the current research related to the mental ill health of young people in urban and rural Australia, their educational attainment and the effectiveness of mental health strategies implemented in secondary schools.

Results:

The prevalence of mental ill health is high for Australian young people and the onset of depression, anxiety, substance‐use disorders and first episode psychosis (FEP) commonly occurs when the individual is at school. The prevalence is reported to be higher for rural young people and barriers to treatment exist. Current evidence suggests that 40% of young people experiencing depression or anxiety disorders are not completing secondary school. Further evidence shows that over 50% of individuals who experience FEP do not finish secondary school. Current mental health promotion strategies employed in secondary schools have not been shown to reduce rates of depression or anxiety in adolescence nor identify prodromal or acute FEP. These strategies have not led to interventions that assist young people with mental ill health to finish school.

Conclusions

Not completing secondary school can limit employment options, lead to severe levels of disadvantage and increased burden on welfare and healthcare systems. All young people, including those in rural areas, have the right to education and should not be disadvantaged in their educational aspirations because they have an emerging or current mental illness.
Transient and chronic seizure‐induced inflammation in human focal epilepsy
Authors: Butler Tracy , Li Yi , Tsui Wai , Friedman Daniel , Maoz Anat , Wang Xiuyuan , Harvey Patrick , Tanzi Emily , Morim Simon , Kang Yeona , Mosconi Lisa , Talos Delia , Kuzniecky Ruben , Vallhabjosula Shankar , Thesen Thomas , Glodzik Lidia , Ichise Masanori , Silbersweig David , Stern Emily , de Leon Mony J. , French Jacqueline
Published: July 2016

In animal models, inflammation is both a cause and consequence of seizures. Less is known about the role of inflammation in human epilepsy. We performed positron emission tomography (PET) using a radiotracer sensitive to brain inflammation in a patient with frontal epilepsy ~36 h after a seizure as well as during a seizure‐free period. When statistically compared to a group of 12 matched controls, both of the patient's scans identified a frontal (supplementary motor area) region of increased inflammation corresponding to his clinically defined seizure focus, but the postseizure scan showed significantly greater inflammation intensity and spatial extent. These results provide new information about transient and chronic neuroinflammation in human epilepsy and may be relevant to understanding the process of epileptogenesis and guiding therapy.
Relocation Issues in Child Custody Evaluations: A Survey of Professionals
Authors: Austin William G. , Bow James N. , Knoll Andrea , Ellens Rebecca
Published: July 2016

We report on a sample of 90 child custody evaluators in the United States, who completed an online questionnaire on their attitudes and beliefs in child custody relocation cases. Findings indicated that the vast majority of participants relied on relevant professional literature and utilized a relocation risk assessment forensic model. Participants found many risk, protective, and specific relocation factors important, but the triad of past parental involvement, support for the other parent, and child's age were afforded the most importance. Participants also reported that the moving parents sought relocation for educational/vocational reasons, to receive support of their extended family, or to remarry, while the nonmoving party most commonly opposed relocation due to fears of interference/damage to the nonmoving parent–child relationship, restrictive gatekeeping, and alienation. A common trend among participants was concerns over the possible detrimental impact of any relocation on the nonmoving parent–child relationship and quality of co‐parenting. The vast majority of participants reported that they made specific recommendations to the court about relocation, and the court agreed with their recommendation the overwhelming majority of the time. We discuss Implications of the findings as well as areas needing further research.
A Randomized Comparative Effectiveness Trial of Two Court‐Connected Programs for High‐Conflict Families
Authors: Braver Sanford L. , Sandler Irwin N. , Cohen Hita Liza , Wheeler Lorey A.
Published: July 2016

Parents who experience great amounts of legal conflict as they dissolve their relationship and arrive at their parenting arrangements require an outsize proportion of courts’ time and resources. Additionally, there is overwhelming evidence that conflict has a deleterious effect on their children. We partnered with the family court to conduct a study comparing the effectiveness of two programs for families deemed by their judge to be high conflict and thereby mandated to a program. Both involved one 3‐hour session; the existing program, Parent Conflict Resolution (PCR), used exhortational lecture and video; the newly designed experimental program, Family Transitions Guide (FTG), based on motivational interviewing, employed exercises attempting to get parents to decide for themselves what they needed to do for the sake of their children. Parents were assigned at random to one of the two programs (the literature often terms this a randomized clinical trial) and were interviewed just before it began and 9 months later, as was a child. Results showed that child's report of their own well‐being was significantly improved by FTG as compared to PCR and that these effects were mediated by children feeling less caught in the middle. On several variables, parent report showed that parents in PCR as compared to FTG felt decreased problems in co‐parenting and less interparental conflict, although the effects were not consistent across mother and father report. There was also evidence of diminished legal conflict over 9 months in FTG as compared to PCR.
Child Protection Law as an Independent Variable
Authors: Gupta‐Kagan Josh
Published: July 2016

Child protection professionals work in a multidisciplinary system in which the law and the family court play central roles and which collects an increasing amount of data. Yet we know little about what impact the law has on whether a child is removed by child protective services, is deemed neglected by a family court, or reunifies with a parent. Do state‐to‐state variations in child protection laws, or changes by individual states to their laws, lead to different outcomes for children and families? The dramatic variations in child welfare practice from one state to another suggest that legal variations do matter. Yet empirical research on these questions is scarce both because we collect too little data to measure all such issues, and, because we have failed to study the data we do have. This article is a plea for researchers to rectify that problem and for policymakers to improve data collection. Doing so would facilitate a more clear understanding of the law's effect on child protection outcomes and aid policymakers and advocates in identifying both promising and problematic practices and legal reforms.
1‐800‐Skype‐Me
Authors: Himel Andrea , Paulseth Hon. Debra , Cohen Jessica
Published: July 2016

It is increasingly common that children of divorce are geographically separated from one of their parents. This article considers the challenges that arise from that reality by exploring this problem from a variety of perspectives and by providing practical tips to minimize the impact of the distance. A review of the Ontario caselaw and Arizona Guidelines reveal that certain factors are important in the resolution of these disputes, including: the age of the child, mode of transportation between homes, distance, prior contact, and feasibility of virtual access. Court‐ordered access may include remedies that, absent the distance issue, may be considered extreme, including moving to overnight/extended access periods for young children, permitting children to travel unaccompanied, favoring the nonresident parent for holidays and vacation time, allowing children to decrease contact with the nonresident parent, and decreasing or terminating child support. Where distance dictates the in‐person and virtual access schedules, creative solutions are critical to the successful resolution of these cases. Forward thinking family law professionals can meaningfully help parents to achieve better outcomes for children.
Book Review: Game Theory and the Transformation of Family Law by Kenneth HWaldron and Allan R.Koritzinsky
Authors: Mayer Bernie
Published: July 2016

In this book, Waldron and Koritzinsky, provide a stimulating and interesting new way of understanding the impact of traditional approaches to divorce on families and divorcees. They ask whether the structure of divorce can be altered so that the payoff systems for a divorcing couple lead toward a more constructive and cooperative approach. Waldron and Koritzinsky encourage us to understand how what appears to be irrational behavior actually makes sense when you analyze the payoffs built into the divorce process and argue that we can change that system to reward more constructive behavior. They also urge us to look at subjective payoffs as well as objective outcomes. Their application of game theory yields rich insights to divorce practitioners, but it is important to remember that a rational actor model can only go so far in explaining the complexities and variations of the divorce process.
Book Review: The Conflict Paradox: Seven Dilemmas at the Core of Disputes by BernieMayer
Authors: Browe Olson Kelly
Published: July 2016

Bernie Mayer's latest book is an excellent journey into seven key dilemmas in conflict. Mayer devotes a chapter to each of the following dilemmas: Competition and Cooperation, Optimism and Realism, Avoidance and Engagement, Principle and Compromise, Emotions and Logic, Impartiality and Advocacy, and Autonomy and Community. In this review, I suggest that the book is a thorough guide through seemingly diverse and opposing conflict theories. I go through each chapter and detail how Mayer sees these concepts as interwoven instead of oppositional. He walks his readers through what have been thought of as distinctive, even opposing, approaches, theories, and concepts of conflict. The review uses points and quotes from all seven dilemmas to show the depth of Mayer's analysis and the numerous benefits to theorists and practitioners of reading and rereading his book.
Co‐Parent Court: A Problem‐Solving, Community‐Based Model for Serving Low‐Income Unmarried Co‐Parents
Authors: Ruhland Ebony L. , Hardman Alisha M. , Becher Emily H. , Marczak Mary S.
Published: July 2016

The Hennepin County Co‐Parent Court Project was a 3‐year demonstration project for unmarried co‐parents. The goal of the project was to remove barriers to co‐parenting in low‐income, unmarried parents. The Co‐Parent Court Project encompassed a number of services, including educational workshops, individual case management, parenting plans, legal mediation, and, if needed, supports and treatment for domestic violence. There are published articles that highlight the participant outcomes of the Co‐Parent Project. This article, however, focuses on the background for why this project was developed, components of this project, and lessons learned from implementation.
Understanding Pathways to Family Dispute Resolution and Justice Reforms: Ontario Court File Analysis & Survey of Professionals
Authors: Saini Michael , Birnbaum Rachel , Bala Nicholas , McLarty Brenden
Published: July 2016

This article reports on two related studies about varying pathways to the resolution of family disputes and the effects of family justice reforms in Ontario: a survey of family court professionals (n = 118) and an analysis of 1,000 closed court files of family cases involving children. Both studies reveal that the vast majority of cases are resolved without a trial, often by negotiation. While professionals generally support family justice reform initiatives, there remain significant gaps in the implementation of these strategies. For example, many litigants do not attend information programs despite the requirement for mandatory attendance; there is limited use of mediation; the views of children are being sought in only a small number of cases; and there is a large proportion of self‐represented family litigants. Despite the increase in shared care and joint decision‐making arrangements, a majority of cases in the court file study were sole custody arrangements to the mother, whether the case was settled or resolved by trial. Mediation was associated with greater time of contact with the non–primary residential parent (usually the father).
A Process Evaluation of a Kentucky Court Improvement Initiative
Authors: Thomas Tammi A. , Collins‐Camargo Crystal , Corey Boes R.
Published: July 2016

This article describes a court improvement initiative designed to promote uniformity and improved court practice with the ultimate goal of the improvement of outcomes for children and families. The article focuses on the results of interviews and focus groups conducted as part of the evaluation of this initiative. Twelve jurisdictions were purposively selected to exhibit a range of family court and non–family court jurisdictions in rural and middle‐sized locations. The discussion of the qualitative results focuses on changes in court practice and the impact of the initiative on case time.
When a Child Rejects a Parent: Working With the Intractable Resist/Refuse Dynamic
Authors: Walters Marjorie Gans , Friedlander Steven
Published: July 2016

A subgroup of intractable families, in which a child refuses postseparation contact with a parent, perplexes and frustrates professionals who work with them. This article discusses the underlying forces that drive the family's intractability, as well as guidelines for working with the family. The guidelines include specific court orders developed from the very beginning of the case that elaborate the court's stance about goals and expectations for the family, along with specialized individual and family therapies that are undertaken within a framework of planned collaboration with the court. The collaborative team of legal and mental health professionals works in an innovative and active way to structure, support, and monitor the family's progress in resolving the resist/refuse dynamic.
Dietary diversity decreases the risk of cognitive decline among Japanese older adults
Authors: Otsuka Rei , Nishita Yukiko , Tange Chikako , Tomida Makiko , Kato Yuki , Nakamoto Mariko , Imai Tomoko , Ando Fujiko , Shimokata Hiroshi
Published: July 2016

Aim

To clarify the effectiveness of dietary diversity, calculated by dietary records, on cognitive decline.

Methods

Data were derived from the National Institute for Longevity Sciences – Longitudinal Study of Aging. Participants comprised 298 men and 272 women aged 60–81 years at baseline (second wave) who participated in the follow‐up study (third to seventh wave) at least once. Cognitive function was assessed with the Mini‐Mental State Examination in all study waves. Dietary diversity was determined using the Quantitative Index for Dietary Diversity based on a 3‐day dietary record in the second wave. Cumulative data among participants with a Mini‐Mental State Examination score >27 in the second wave were analyzed using a generalized estimating equation. Multivariate adjusted odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals for Mini‐Mental State Examination scores ≤27 in each study wave according to a 1 standard deviation (increase), or quartiles of the Quantitative Index for Dietary Diversity at baseline, were adjusted for sex, age, follow‐up time, baseline Mini‐Mental State Examination score, education, body mass index, annual household income, current smoking status, energy intake and disease history.

Results

Multivariate adjusted odds ratio for a decline in Mini‐Mental State Examination score was 0.79 (95% CI 0.70–0.89; P < 0.001) with a 1 SD increase in dietary diversity score, or 1.00 (reference), 0.99 (95% CI 0.70–1.43), 0.68 (95% CI 0.46–0.99) and 0.56 (95% CI 0.38–0.83) according to the lowest through highest quartiles of dietary diversity score, respectively (trend P = 0.001).

Conclusions

Daily intake of various kinds of food might be a protective factor against cognitive decline in community‐dwelling Japanese older adults. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2017; 17: 937–944.
Methotrexate induced pneumatosis intestinalis under hemodialysis patient
Authors: Mima Akira , Nagahara Dai , Tansho Kosuke
Published: July 2016

Pneumatosis intestinalis (PI) is a rare disorder characterized by the gas within the intestinal mucosa. This is the first report methotrexate (MTX) induced PI under hemodialysis (HD) patient. A 46‐year‐old man suffered rheumatoid arthritis and underwent HD at local HD center. After the initial induction of MTX, the patient showed epigastralgia and diarrhea. He was referred to our hospital and abdominal computed tomography showed significant large intestinal edema and free intraperitoneal air consistent with PI. Physicians should aware that MTX is contraindication drug for chronic kidney disease and high‐flux HD may decrease MTX toxicity and oxidative stress, improving PI.