bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of Antibiotic Susceptibility within Lactic Acid Bacteria and Coagulase‐Negative Staphylococci Isolated from Hunan Smoked Pork, a Naturally Fermented Meat Product in China
Authors: Wang Jing , Wei Xinyuan , Fan Mingtao
Published: May 2018

The aim of this study was to evaluate the antibiotic susceptibility of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) and coagulase‐negative staphylococci (CNS) strains isolated from naturally fermented smoked pork produced in Hunan, China. A total of 48 strains were isolated by selective medium and identified at the species level by 16S rRNA gene sequencing as follows: Staphylococcus carnosus (23), Lactobacillus plantarum (12), Lactobacillus brevis (10), Lactobacillus sakei (1), Weissella confusa (1), and Weissella cibaria (1). All strains were typed by RAPD‐PCR, and their susceptibility to 15 antibiotics was determined and expressed as the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) using agar dilution method. High resistance to penicillin G, streptomycin, gentamycin, vancomycin, chloramphenicol, norfloxacin, ciprofloxacin, kanamycin, and neomycin was found among the isolates. All the strains were sensitive to ampicillin, while the susceptibility to tetracycline, oxytetracycline, erythromycin, lincomycin, and roxithromycin varied. The presence of relevant resistance genes was investigated by PCR and sequencing, with the following genes detected: str(A), str(B), tet(O), tet(M), ere(A), and catA. Eleven strains, including 3 S. carnosus, 6 L. plantarum, and 2 L. brevis, harbored more than 3 antibiotic resistance genes. Overall, multiple antibiotic resistance patterns were widely observed in LAB and S. carnosus strains isolated from Hunan smoked pork. Risk assessment should be carried out with regard to the safe use of LAB and CNS in food production.

Practical Application

We evaluated the antibiotic resistance of lactic acid bacteria and coagulase‐negative staphylococci strains isolated from Chinese naturally fermented smoked pork. Our results may provide important data on establishing breakpoint standards for LAB and CNS and evaluating the safety risk of these strains for commercial use.
A Simple and Portable Screening Method for Adulterated Olive Oils Using the Hand‐Held FTIR Spectrometer and Chemometrics Tools
Authors: Pan Meng , Sun Suqin , Zhou Qun , Chen Jianbo
Published: May 2018

Extra virgin olive oil has been one of the most common targets for economically motivated food adulteration. This research employed the hand‐held FTIR spectrometer to develop the simple and portable screening methods for extra virgin olive oils adulterated with other cheaper vegetable oils. With the help of the ATR probe and chemometrics tools, oil samples can be measured directly without any pretreatment, then the spectra can be interpreted automatically to determine the possibility of adulteration and estimate the content of adulterant oil. A feasibility study of the hand‐held FTIR screening method was carried out using olive oils adulterated with canola oil, peanut oil, corn oil, soybean oil, and sunflower oil. The SIMCA model using the hand‐held FTIR spectra can identify different kinds of vegetable oils correctly and recognize olive oils with not less than 10% of adulterant oils. Meanwhile, the content of adulterant oil in the range of 5% to 45% can be estimated by the PLS model using the hand‐held FTIR spectra within an error of 3%. This research shows the potential of the hand‐held FTIR technique in the rapid and field screening of olive oils adulterated with some cheaper vegetable oils.

Practical Application

This research provide a rapid and automatic detection method for olive oils adulterated with other cheaper vegetable oils. An oil sample can be measured directly within one minute, and the hand‐held instrument can be used anywhere needed.
American College of Cardiology 2018
Authors: Carracher Ann M. , Marathe Payal H. , Close Kelly L.
Published: May 2018

Ann M. Carracher, Payal H. Marathe, and Kelly L. Close are of Close Concerns (http://www.closeconcerns.com), a healthcare information company focused exclusively on diabetes and obesity care. Close Concerns publishes Closer Look, a periodical that brings together news and insights in these areas. Each month, the Journal of Diabetes includes this News feature, in which Carracher, Marathe, and Close review the latest developments relevant to researchers and clinicians.
Integrating a comprehensive DNA barcode reference library with a global map of yews (Taxus L.) for forensic identification
Authors: Liu Jie , Milne Richard I. , Möller Michael , Zhu Guang‐Fu , Ye Lin‐Jiang , Luo Ya‐Huang , Yang Jun‐Bo , Wambulwa Moses C. , Wang Chun‐Neng , Li De‐Zhu , Gao Lian‐Ming
Published: May 2018

Rapid and accurate identification of endangered species is a critical component of biosurveillance and conservation management, and potentially policing illegal trades. However, this is often not possible using traditional taxonomy, especially where only small or preprocessed parts of plants are available. Reliable identification can be achieved via a comprehensive DNA barcode reference library, accompanied by precise distribution data. However, these require extensive sampling at spatial and taxonomic scales, which has rarely been achieved for cosmopolitan taxa. Here, we construct a comprehensive DNA barcode reference library and generate distribution maps using species distribution modelling (SDM), for all 15 Taxus species worldwide. We find that trnL‐trnF is the ideal barcode for Taxus: It can distinguish all Taxus species and in combination with ITS identify hybrids. Among five analysis methods tested, NJ was the most effective. Among 4,151 individuals screened for trnL‐trnF, 73 haplotypes were detected, all species‐specific and some population private. Taxonomical, geographical and genetic dimensions of sampling strategy were all found to affect the comprehensiveness of the resulting DNA barcode library. Maps from SDM showed that most species had allopatric distributions, except T. mairei in the Sino‐Himalayan region. Using the barcode library and distribution map data, two unknown forensic samples were identified to species (and in one case, population) level and another was determined as a putative interspecific hybrid. This integrated species identification system for Taxus can be used for biosurveillance, conservation management and to monitor and prosecute illegal trade. Similar identification systems are recommended for other IUCN‐ and CITES‐listed taxa.
Dietary Omega‐3 Fatty Acids Differentially Impact Acute Ethanol‐Responsive Behaviors and Ethanol Consumption in DBA/2J Versus C57BL/6J Mice
Authors: Wolstenholme Jennifer T. , Bowers M. Scott , Pais Alexander B. , Pais A. Christian , Poland Ryan S. , Poklis Justin L. , Davies Andrew G. , Bettinger Jill C.
Published: May 2018

Background

Complex interactions between environmental and genetic factors influence the risk of developing alcohol use disorder (AUD) in humans. To date, studies of the impact of environment on AUD risk have primarily focused on psychological characteristics or on the effects of developmental exposure to ethanol (EtOH). We recently observed that modifying levels of the long‐chain ω‐3 (LC ω‐3) fatty acid, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), alters acute physiological responses to EtOH in Caenorhabditis elegans. Because mammals derive ω‐3 fatty acids from their diet, here we asked if manipulating dietary levels of LC ω‐3 fatty acids can affect EtOH‐responsive behaviors in mice.

Methods

We used 2 well‐characterized inbred mouse strains, C57BL/6J (B6) and DBA/2J (D2), which differ in their responses to EtOH. Age‐matched young adult male mice were maintained on isocaloric diets that differed only by being enriched or depleted in LC ω‐3 fatty acids. Animals were subsequently tested for acute EtOH sensitivity (locomotor activation and sedation), voluntary consumption, and metabolism. Fat deposition was also determined.

Results

We found that dietary levels of LC ω‐3s altered EtOH sensitivity and consumption in a genotype‐specific manner. Both B6 and D2 animals fed high LC ω‐3 diets demonstrated lower EtOH‐induced locomotor stimulation than those fed low LC ω‐3 diets. EtOH sedation and EtOH metabolism were greater in D2, but not B6 mice on the high LC ω‐3 diet. Conversely, LC ω‐3 dietary manipulation altered EtOH consumption in B6, but not in D2 mice. B6 mice on a high LC ω‐3 diet consumed more EtOH in a 2‐bottle choice intermittent access model than B6 mice on a low LC ω‐3 diet.

Conclusions

Because EtOH sensitivity is predictive of risk of developing AUD in humans, our data indicate that dietary LC ω‐3 levels should be evaluated for their impact on AUD risk in humans. Further, these studies indicate that genetic background can interact with fatty acids in the diet to significantly alter EtOH‐responsive behaviors.
Meta‐analysis examining the epidemiology of clozapine‐associated neutropenia
Authors: Myles N. , Myles H. , Xia S. , Large M. , Kisely S. , Galletly C. , Bird R. , Siskind D.
Published: May 2018

Background

Clozapine is associated with life‐threatening neutropenia. There are no previous meta‐analyses of the epidemiology of clozapine‐associated neutropenia.

Objectives

To determine the cumulative incidence of mild, moderate and severe neutropenia, incidence of death related to severe neutropenia, case fatality rate of neutropenia and the longitudinal incidence of neutropenia following exposure to clozapine.

Data sources

A systematic search of Medline, EMBASE and PsycINFO using search terms [clozapine OR clopine OR zaponex OR clozaril] AND [neutropenia OR agranulocytosis].

Methods

Random effects meta‐analysis to determine event rates and longitudinal incidence of events per 100 person‐years of exposure.

Results

A total of 108 studies were included. The incidence of clozapine‐associated neutropenia was 3.8% (95% CI: 2.7–5.2%) and severe neutropenia 0.9% (95% CI: 0.7–1.1%). The incidence of death related to neutropenia following prescription of clozapine was 0.013% (95% CI: 0.01–0.017%). The case fatality rate of severe neutropenia was 2.1% (95% CI: 1.6–2.8%). The peak incidence of severe neutropenia occurred at one month of exposure and declined to negligible levels after one year of treatment.

Conclusion

Severe neutropenia associated with clozapine is a rare event and occurs early with a substantial decline in risk after one year of exposure. Death from clozapine‐associated neutropenia is extremely rare. Implications for haematological monitoring are discussed.
A novel thyroid function index associated with opposite therapeutic outcomes in advanced hepatocellular carcinoma patients receiving chemotherapy or sorafenib
Authors: Chu Yu‐De , Lin Kwang‐Huei , Huang Ya‐Hui , Lin Chen‐Chun , Hung Chien‐Fu , Yeh Ta‐Sen , Lee Wei‐Chen , Yeh Chau‐Ting
Published: May 2018

Aim

A sustained proportion of advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients worldwide received either chemotherapy or sorafenib. However, to date, effective and convenient biomarkers to predict their therapeutic outcomes remained elusive. Hypothyroidism was associated with favorable anticancer treatment outcomes in several advanced cancers. Here, we aimed to investigate the potential of using thyroid‐stimulating hormone (TSH) and free T4 (FT4) levels as biomarkers to predict clinical outcomes in HCC patients receiving chemotherapy or sorafenib.

Methods

Total 123 advanced HCC patients at Barcelona Clinical Liver Cancer Stage C were included. They were separated into two cohorts, one treated by sorafenib (n = 62) and the other by chemotherapy (n = 61). Clinical data including TSH and FT4 were retrieved and correlated with treatment outcomes.

Results

Because of restriction in local insurance policy, the baseline liver function reserve was better in patients receiving sorafenib. Therefore, the two cohorts were analyzed separately. The results showed that a higher (> median) TSH × FT4 value was independently associated with favorable time‐to‐tumor progression (P = 0.006) and overall survival (P = 0.002) if chemotherapy was provided; whereas it was associated with unfavorable time‐to‐tumor progression (P = 0.017) and overall survival (P = 0.001) if sorafenib was administrated. These opposite associations remained valid when patients with Child–Pugh class A liver function from either cohort were included for analysis.

Conclusion

A novel thyroid function index, TSH × FT4, significantly predicted opposite clinical outcomes in advanced HCC patients receiving sorafenib or chemotherapy treatment.
Mother‐to‐child transmission of HIV in Australia and other high‐income countries: Trends in perinatal exposure, demography and uptake of prevention strategies
Authors: O'Donovan Kelly , Emeto Theophilus I.
Published: May 2018

Virtual elimination of mother‐to‐child transmission (MTCT) of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a global target. A review of the literature was conducted using medical databases and health department websites to examine the current trends related to perinatal HIV exposure and MTCT in Australia in comparison with other high‐income countries (HICs). The review discusses the uptake of prevention strategies and barriers that impede MTCT prevention. The literature suggests an increase in the numbers of HIV‐exposed deliveries, but a marked decline in the rates of MTCT within HICs. MTCT remains high when the mother's HIV infection is diagnosed late or postpartum. Data supports increasing trends of perinatal HIV exposure in migrant populations from low‐ and middle‐income countries (particularly African women). Increased uptake and earlier initiation of antiretroviral therapy (ART) was associated with overall MTCT decline. Caesarean section remains the main mode of delivery described; however, the numbers of planned vaginal deliveries are increasing over time. Heterogeneity of data periods and outcome measures within published literature made comparisons between countries difficult. Future development should focus on clear national guidelines and a potential national database for perinatal HIV, culturally appropriate service provision, and more evidence on acute infections in pregnancy and the effects that longer duration and increased uptake of ART has on the fetus and resistance to ART.
Comorbidity of viral hepatitis and chronic spontaneous urticaria: A systematic review
Authors: Kolkhir P. , Pereverzina N. , Olisova O. , Maurer M.
Published: May 2018

Chronic viral infections including those by hepatitis B (CHB) virus and hepatitis C (CHC) virus have been reported to be comorbidities of chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU). Here, we performed the first comprehensive review of the peer‐reviewed literature (PubMed, Web of Science and Google Scholar) on the prevalence of CHB and CHC in patients with CSU and vice versa. The prevalence of CHB and CHC in CSU does not appear to be increased. Less than 5% and 2% of patients with CSU have markers of CHB and CHC, respectively, according to most of the 32 studies reviewed. Urticarial rash including CSU occurs in ≤3% of patients with CHC as reported by most of 20 studies analysed. Very few patients have been assessed for the effects of antiviral hepatitis treatment on their CSU, and two but not all reportedly showed improvement. Hepatitis B/C infections appear unlikely to be linked to CSU. We suggest that routine screening for these infections in patients with CSU is not relevant or cost‐effective and should not be performed unless liver function tests are abnormal, risk factors or symptoms of viral hepatitis are present, or urticarial vasculitis is suspected.
Temporal and long‐term gut microbiota variation in allergic disease: A prospective study from infancy to school age
Authors: Simonyté Sjödin K. , Hammarström M.‐L. , Rydén P. , Sjödin A. , Hernell O. , Engstrand L. , West C. E.
Published: May 2018

Background

Compositional changes in the early‐life gut microbiota have been implicated in IgE‐associated allergic diseases, but there is lack of longitudinal studies. We examined gut microbiota development from infancy to school age in relation to onset of IgE‐associated allergic diseases. At 8 years of age, we also examined the relationship between gut microbiota and T‐cell regulation, estimated as responses to polyclonal T‐cell activation.

Methods

Stool samples were collected from 93 children at 4, 6, 13 months, and 8 years of age. The gut microbiota was profiled using 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Peripheral blood was drawn from all children, and mononuclear cells were polyclonally activated. Levels of IL‐10 and FOXP3 mRNA copies were determined using real‐time quantitative reverse transcriptase‐PCR.

Results

At 8 years of age, 21 children were diagnosed with IgE‐associated allergic disease and 90% displayed allergic comorbidity. Seventy‐two children were nonallergic and nonsensitized. Statistical tests with multiple testing corrections demonstrated temporal underrepresentation of Ruminococcus and consistent underrepresentation of Bacteroides, Prevotella, and Coprococcus in allergic compared to nonallergic children from infancy to school age. The gut microbiota of the allergic 8‐year‐olds was enriched in Bifidobacterium and depleted of Lactobacillus, Enterococcus, and Lachnospira. In allergic 8‐year‐olds, Faecalibacterium correlated with IL‐10 mRNA levels (rs = 0.49, Padj = 0.02) with the same trend for FOXP3 (rs = 0.39, Padj = 0.08).

Conclusions

We identified both temporal and long‐term variation in the differential abundance of specific bacterial genera in children developing IgE‐associated allergic disease. Improved dietary interventions aiming at expanding immune‐modulatory taxa could be studied for prevention of allergic disease.
Outcomes of oesophageal self‐dilation for patients with refractory benign oesophageal strictures
Authors: Qin Y. , Sunjaya D. B. , Myburgh S. , Sawas T. , Katzka D. A. , Alexander J. A. , Halland M.
Published: May 2018

Background

Current management of refractory benign oesophageal strictures with endoscopic dilations and stenting leads to resolution of dysphagia in only 30% of patients. Oesophageal self‐dilation may be an alternative.

Aim

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of oesophageal self‐dilation at a tertiary referral centre.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective review of patients with refractory benign oesophageal strictures who participated in oesophageal self‐dilation at Mayo Clinic (Rochester, MN, USA) between 2003 and 2017. Clinical data including stricture characteristics, Dakkak and Bennett Dysphagia Score, number and dates of endoscopies, and complications were collected. A two‐tailed paired Student's t test was used to compare the measures of efficacy, with differences considered significant at a 5% probability level.

Results

We identified 52 patients with refractory strictures treated with self‐dilation. The median number of endoscopic interventions was reduced from 9.5 (range 5‐30) to 0 (range 0‐3) within 12 months before and after self‐dilation, respectively (P < 0.0001). A median intervention‐free interval of 417 days (IQR 256‐756 days) was observed. The mean dysphagia score at baseline was 2.5 (95% CI 2.2‐2.8) and 0.33 (95% CI 0.11‐0.53) after self‐dilation. 23 of 27 (85%) patients who received enteral nutrition prior to self‐dilation had their feeding tubes removed.

Conclusions

Oesophageal self‐dilation is an effective way of maintaining oesophageal patency in refractory benign oesophageal strictures, with safety comparable to current standard of care. Prospective studies are needed to further validate the role of self‐dilation in treatment of refractory benign oesophageal strictures.
Prospective evaluation of 68Ga‐DOTATATE PET/CT in limited disease neuroendocrine tumours and/or elevated serum neuroendocrine biomarkers
Authors: Gabriel Sophie , Garrigue Philippe , Dahan Laetitia , Castinetti Frédéric , Sebag Frédéric , Baumstark Karine , Archange Cendrine , Jha Abhishek , Pacak Karel , Guillet Benjamin , Taïeb David
Published: May 2018

Context

The 68Ga‐labelled somatostatin analogues (68Ga‐DOTA‐SSAs) is becoming popular as an important diagnostic tool in neuroendocrine tumours as evidenced by a growing number of reports detailing institutional experience with various DOTA peptides. However, only few prospective studies have compared 68Ga‐DOTA‐SSAs and somatostatin receptor scintigraphy (SRS) in gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine tumours (GEP‐NETs) and pulmonary neuroendocrine tumours.

Objective

The aim of our prospective study was to perform head‐to‐head comparison between 68 Ga‐DOTATATE PET/CT and standard imaging work‐up (SI) that included multiphasic CT, liver MRI and SRS using single photon emission computed tomography.

Design

In this prospective study, the patients were enrolled only if they met any of the following inclusion criteria: (i) initial staging of a NETs without distant metastases on SI or neuroendocrine tumour with unknown primary on SI; (ii) restaging of NETs that could be treated by focused therapeutic interventions; (iii) elevated serum neuroendocrine hormones or peptides. The exclusion criteria was grade 3 GEP‐NETs.

Results

Thirty‐two patients were enrolled in the study. Eleven patients (6 pancreas, 4 ileum, 1 duodenal) were included for initial evaluation and staging of NETs, 8 patients (5 pancreas, 1 ileal, 1 lung, 1 duodenal gastrinoma) for restaging, and 13 patients for elevated serum neuroendocrine biomarkers (5 ectopic Cushing's syndrome, 5 organic hypoglycaemia, 1 patient each with elevated vasoactive inhibitory peptide, chromogranin A and neuron‐specific enolase). 68Ga‐DOTATATE PET/CT detected more primary tumours than SRS (15/18 vs 10/18: P = .074). The missed tumours on 68Ga‐DOTATATE PET/CT were located in the lung in two cases and duodenum in one case. For other anatomical regions (nodal and distant metastasis), no statistical difference was observed between imaging modalities using 68Ga‐DOTATATE PET/CT and SRS. Overall, 68Ga‐DOTATATE PET/CT+CT+MRI detected 31/33 of the involved regions (including primaries) (29 and 22 for 68Ga‐DOTATATE and SRS, respectively).

Conclusion

Our study shows that 68Ga‐DOTATATE PET/CT detected similar number of sites than combination of SRS, liver MRI and thoraco‐abdominopelvic CT on region‐based analysis. 68Ga‐DOTATATE PET/CT missed half of primary lung carcinoids with ectopic Cushing's syndrome.
Peri‐implant soft tissue status and crestal bone levels around adjacent implants placed in patients with and without type‐2 diabetes mellitus: 6 years follow‐up results
Authors: Alasqah Mohammed N. , Alrabiah Mohammed , Al‐Aali Khulud Abdulrahman , Mokeem Sameer A. , Binmahfooz Abdulelah M. , ArRejaie Aws S. , Abduljabbar Tariq
Published: May 2018

Background

The long‐term success and survival of dental implants type‐2 diabetic subjects is debatable.

Purpose

The present 6 years' follow‐up prospective clinical study compared the peri‐implant soft tissue status and crestal bone loss (CBL) around adjacent implants placed among type‐2 diabetic and nondiabetic subjects.

Materials and Methods

Type‐2 diabetic (Group‐1) and nondiabetic individuals (Group‐2) with adjacent dental implants were included. Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) levels were recorded; and a questionnaire was used to collect demographic information. Information regarding implant dimensions, duration in function, loading protocol, and type of restoration was recorded. Peri‐implant bleeding‐on‐probing (BOP), plaque index (PI), probing depth (PD), and mesial and distal CBL were measured. P < .05 were considered statistically significant.

Results

Eighty‐six male participants (44 in Group‐1 and 42 in Group‐2) were included. The mean age of individuals in groups 1 and 2 were 57.6 ± 5.5 and 61.6 ± 4.3 years, respectively. In Group‐1, the mean duration of type‐2 diabetes was 10.1 ± 3.5 years. A family history of diabetes was more often reported by individuals in Group‐1 than Group‐2. In groups 1 and 2, 44 and 42 pairs of adjacent implants, respectively were placed in the regions of missing premolars and molars in both arches. All implants were delayed loaded and were fixed with non‐splinted screw‐retained restorations. In groups 1 and 2, tooth‐brushing twice daily was reported by 79.5% and 85.7% individuals, respectively. There was no difference in peri‐implant PI, BOP, PD, mesial and distal CBL and HbA1c levels among individuals in groups 1 and 2.

Conclusion

Adjacent implants can remain esthetically and functionally stable in type 2 diabetic patients in a manner similar to healthy individuals provided glycemic levels are strictly controlled and maintained.
Elevated levels of 8‐OHdG and PARK7/DJ‐1 in peri‐implantitis mucosa
Authors: Kasnak Gökhan , Firatli Erhan , Könönen Eija , Olgac Vakur , Zeidán‐Chuliá Fares , Gursoy Ulvi Kahraman
Published: May 2018

Background

Reactive oxygen species contribute to periodontal tissue homeostasis under control of anti‐oxidative responses. Disruption in this balance induces severe inflammation and extended tissue degradation.

Purpose

Aim of this study was to identify the expression levels of nuclear factor, erythroid 2 like 2 (NFE2L2/NRF2), Parkinsonism associated deglycase (PARK7/DJ‐1), kelch‐like ECH associated protein 1 (KEAP1), and 8‐hydroxy‐deoxyguanosine (8‐OHdG) in peri‐implant mucosal tissues affected by peri‐implantitis, and to compare the levels to those of periodontally diseased and healthy tissue samples.

Methods

Tissue biopsies were collected from systemically healthy, non‐smoking 12 peri‐implantitis patients, 13 periodontitis patients, and 13 periodontally healthy controls. Expression levels of NFE2L2/NRF2, PARK7/DJ‐1, KEAP1, and 8‐OHdG in tissue samples were analyzed immunohistochemically. Statistical analysis was performed by one‐way ANOVA with Tukey's HSD test.

Results

Inflammatory cell infiltration in the connective tissue and loss of architecture in the spinous layer of the epithelium were prominent in peri‐implantitis. Proportions of 8‐OHdG and PARK7/DJ‐1 expressing cells were elevated in both peri‐implantitis (P = .025 for 8‐OHdG and P = .014 for PARK7/DJ‐1) and periodontitis (P = .038 for 8‐OHdG and P = .012 for PARK7/DJ‐1) groups in comparison with controls. Staining intensities of 8‐OHdG and PARK7/DJ‐1 were higher in the periodontitis and peri‐implantitis groups than in the control (P < .01) groups. There was no difference in the expression levels of NFE2L2/NRF2 between the groups. KEAP1 was not observed in any tissue sample.

Conclusions

Peri‐implantitis is characterized by severe inflammation and architectural changes in the epithelium and connective tissue. The expressions of 8‐OHdG and PARK7/DJ‐1 are elevated in both peri‐implantitis and periodontitis.
Effect of implant therapy on oral health‐related quality of life (OHIP‐49), health status (SF‐36), and satisfaction of patients with several agenetic teeth: Prospective cohort study
Authors: Filius Marieke A.P. , Vissink Arjan , Cune Marco S. , Raghoebar Gerry M. , Visser Anita
Published: May 2018

Background

Effect of fixed prosthodontics on patients with several agenetic teeth is not well understood.

Purpose

To assess the effect of implant‐based fixed prosthodontics on oral health‐related quality of life (OHRQoL), general health status, and satisfaction regarding dental appearance, ability to chew and speech in patients with several agenetic teeth.

Materials and Methods

For this prospective cohort study, all patients (≥18 years) with several agenetic teeth who were scheduled for treatment with fixed dental implants between September 2013 and July 2015 at our department were approached. Participants received a set of questionnaires before and 1 year after implant placement to assess OHRQoL (OHIP‐NL49), general health status (SF‐36), and satisfaction regarding dental appearance, ability to chew and speech.

Results

About 25 out of 31 eligible patients (10 male, 15 female; median age: 20 [19;23] years; agenetic teeth: 7 [5;10]) were willing to participate. Pre‐ and post‐treatment OHIP‐NL49 sum‐scores were 38 [28;56] and 17 [7;29], respectively (P < .001). Scores of all OHIP‐NL49 subdomains decreased tool, representing an improved OHRQoL (P < .05) as well as that satisfaction regarding dental appearance, ability to chew and speech increased (P < .001). General health status did not change with implant treatment (P > .05).

Conclusions

Treatment with implant‐based fixed prosthodontics improves OHRQoL and satisfaction with dental appearance, ability to chew and speech, while not affecting general health status.
Predicting the ecological impacts of large‐dam removals on a river network based on habitat‐network structure and flow regimes
Authors: Ishiyama Nobuo , Ryo Masahiro , Kataoka Taiga , Nagayama Shigeya , Sueyoshi Masanao , Terui Akira , Mori Terutaka , Akasaka Takumi , Nakamura Futoshi
Published: May 2018

Large dams provide vital protection and services to humans. However, an increasing number of large dams worldwide are old and not operating properly. The removal of large dams has excellent potential to restore habitat connectivity and flow regimes; therefore, projecting the related ecological consequences is an emerging need for water resource and ecosystem management. However, no modeling methods are currently available for such projections at the basin scale. We devised a scheme that integrates changes in flow regimes and habitat network structure into a basin‐scale impact assessment of removal of large dams and applied it to the Nagara‐Ibi Basin, Japan. We used a graph‐theoretical approach and a hydrological model, to quantify changes in habitat availability for 11 freshwater fishes at the basin scale under multiple removal scenarios. We compared these results with the change predicted using a conventional scheme that considered only changes to the habitat network due to dam removal. Our proposed scheme revealed that an increase in flow variability associated with dam removal projected both positive and negative effects on basin‐scale habitat availability, depending on the focal species, endangered species had a negative response to dam removal. In contrast, the conventional approach projected only positive effects for all species. This difference in the outcomes indicates that large‐dam removal can have negative and positive effects on watershed restoration due to changes in flow regimes. Our results also suggest the effect of removal of large dams may depend on the dams and their locations. Our study is the first step in projecting ecological trade‐offs associated with the removal of large dams on riverscapes at the basin scale and provides a foundation for future process‐based watershed restoration.
Early receptive language comprehension ability in children with cerebral palsy
Authors: Nordberg Ann
Published: May 2018

This commentary is on the original article by Hustad et al. on pages 1156–1164 of this issue.
Insulin therapy, weight gain and prognosis
Authors: Hodish Israel
Published: May 2018

Insulin therapy is mainly used by people with type 2 diabetes who have failed other therapies and have become insulin‐deficient. This group represents about a quarter of all people with type 2 diabetes. Almost all those with type 2 diabetes who start insulin therapy or intensify it gain weight, which may potentially diminish the prognostic advantage of improved glycaemia. To date, all available guidelines emphasize both the attainment of glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) goals and weight control, without directing the clinician as to which element is of a higher priority. The following review attempts to clarify the issue using the available literature. The body of evidence presented in this review indicates that glycaemic management with exogenous insulin replacement is of a much higher priority than weight gain. Lower weight or weight loss do not show prognostic benefit in advanced stages of diabetes; therefore, weight gain should not discourage providers from achieving and maintaining HbA1c goals with insulin therapy, regardless of insulin dosage or other medications.
The truncated bell: an enigmatic but pervasive elevational diversity pattern in Middle American ants
Authors: Longino John T. , Branstetter Michael G.
Published: May 2018

Studies on elevation gradients in Panama and Costa Rica have shown that leaf‐litter ants exhibit a mid‐elevation peak in diversity. This diversity pattern has been observed in other groups and regions, but uncertainty remains as to just how pervasive it is and what might explain it. Here we examine the robustness of the mid‐elevation peak in ant diversity across the entire Middle American corridor, from Veracruz, Mexico, to Costa Rica. We sampled 56 sites distributed throughout Middle America. All were in closed‐canopy evergreen wet forest, spanning 11° latitude, from near sea level to 2600 m elevation. Ants were extracted from 100 litter samples from each site and identified to genus or species. Model selection was performed on richness and diversity variables to test if ant diversity best fits a linear model or one allowing for a mid‐elevation peak. Linear models were also used to examine the relationships among diversity measures and temperature, precipitation, and seasonality. Species richness measures and diversity indices that incorporate relative abundance show a similar relationship to elevation throughout the region: a truncated bell curve with a mode near 400 m. A cubic relationship is statistically favored over quadratic or linear. Temperature is a significant correlate with diversity, but does not predict a bell‐curve. Precipitation and precipitation seasonality fail to explain much of the variability, and no combination of environmental variables predicts a bell curve. Potential causes of the truncated bell curve include lowland biotic attrition, mid‐point attractors, and ecotonal transitions from lowland to montane communities. Analysis of 17 subclades within ants mostly showed the same truncated curve but six clades were anomalous. Distinctive behavioral or historical features potentially explain their patterns.
Glomalin‐related soil protein in the rhizosphere of Robinia pseudoacacia L. seedlings under higher air temperature combined with Cd‐contaminated soil
Authors: Jia X. , Zhao Y. , He Y. , Chang Y.
Published: May 2018

Glomalin‐related soil protein (GRSP) can bind heavy metals and plays an important role in soil carbon sequestration. The GRSP contains glycoproteins produced by arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF), as well as lipids, humic materials and non‐mycorrhizal‐related heat‐stable proteins, which might be affected by environmental conditions. Current and predicted changes in global climate make it important to understand how GRSP might be affected by higher atmospheric temperatures and heavy metal contamination of soil. Here, we investigated the response of GRSP to higher temperature in the rhizosphere of Robinia pseudoacacia L. seedlings in cadmium (Cd)‐contaminated soil. Easily extractable (EE) and total (T) GRSP concentrations increased significantly (P < 0.05) under Cd pollution alone. Compared with ambient temperature, a higher temperature (2.7°C) alone significantly (P < 0.05) increased EE‐ and T‐GRSP concentrations, the EE‐GRSP:T‐GRSP ratio and the GRSP:soil organic carbon (SOC) ratio, but significantly (P < 0.05) decreased SOC content in the rhizosphere. Higher temperature significantly (P < 0.05) increased EE‐ and T‐GRSP concentrations, the EE‐GRSP:T‐GRSP ratio and the GRSP:SOC ratio, but decreased SOC content under Cd pollution. Under higher temperature, the amount of Cd bound to GRSP increased significantly (P < 0.05), and available Cd content decreased significantly (P < 0.05). Glomalin‐related soil protein contributed more carbon to the rhizosphere SOC pool under higher temperature + Cd than under Cd alone, and the higher temperature led to a significant (P < 0.05) decrease in available Cd. Under the higher temperature, T‐GRSP contributed more to the decrease in available Cd than did EE‐GRSP. Increases in GRSP resulting from higher temperatures could increase Cd binding in contaminated soil.

Highlights

Higher temperature increased GRSP in the rhizosphere of R. pseudoacacia seedlings.

The amount of Cd bound to GRSP increased under higher temperature.

Available Cd in rhizosphere soil decreased under higher temperature.

Higher temperature could contribute to chelation of Cd‐contaminated soil.
The evolution of intraspecific variation in social organization
Authors: Schradin Carsten , Hayes Loren D. , Pillay Neville , Bertelsmeier Cleo
Published: May 2018

Many species show intraspecific variation in their social organization (IVSO), which means the composition of their social groups can change between solitary living, pair living, or living in groups. UnderstandingIVSOis important because it demonstrates species resilience to environmental change and can help us to study ultimate and proximate reasons for group living by comparing solitary and group‐living individuals in a single species. It has long been realized that the environment plays a key role in explaining the occurrence ofIVSO.IVSOis expected to have evolved in variable environments and can thus be a key adaptation to environmental change. It has previously been suggested that four different mechanisms relying on the environment exist that can lead toIVSO: environmental disrupters, genetic differentiation, developmental plasticity, and social flexibility. All four mechanisms depend on the environment such that focusing only on environmental factors alone cannot explainIVSO. Importantly, only three represent evolved mechanisms, while environmental disrupters leading to the death of important group members induce nonadaptiveIVSO. Environmental disrupters can be expected to causeIVSOeven in species whereIVSOis also an adaptive response. Here, we focus on the questions of whyIVSOoccurs and why it evolved. To understandIVSOat the species level, it is important to conduct continuous long‐term studies to differentiate between nonadaptive and adaptiveIVSO. We predict thatIVSOevolves in environments that vary in important ecological variables, such as rainfall, food availability, and population density.IVSOmight also depend on life history factors, especially longevity.IVSOis predicted to be more common in species with a short life span and that breed only for one breeding season, being selected to respond optimally to the prevailing environmental situation. Finally, we emphasize the importance of accounting forIVSOwhen studying social evolution, especially in comparative studies, as not every species can be assigned to one single form of social organization. For such comparative studies, it is important to use data based on the primary literature.
Effects of applying Lactobacillus plantarum and Chinese gallnut tannin on the dynamics of protein degradation and proteases activity in alfalfa silage
Authors: Li X. , Tian J. , Zhang Q. , Jiang Y. , Hou J. , Wu Z. , Yu Z.
Published: May 2018

The effects of Lactobacillus plantarum (LP) and Chinese gallnut (Rhus chinensis Mill) tannin on the fermentation quality, nitrogen distribution, protein fractions and proteases activity of alfalfa (Medicago sativa) silage were studied. Additives added to alfalfa forage (approximately 40% DM) were LP (1 × 106 cfu/g FW) plus sucrose (4 g/kg FW) (LP + S), LP (1 × 106 cfu/g FW) plus commercial cellulase (0.1 g/kg FW) (LP + C) and Chinese gallnut tannin at two levels (20 and 50 g/kg DM) (TA 2% and TA 5%). The control was sprayed with the same volume of distilled water. Silage was sampled and analysed on days 1, 3, 5, 7, 14, 21, 28 and 35. The results showed that the degradation of protein to nonprotein nitrogen took place mainly during the first 3 days, while the degradation of peptides and free amino acids occurred throughout the ensiling process. All additives lowered nonprotein nitrogen and free amino acids nitrogen proportion during the ensiling. Additive TA 5% was the most effective to inhibit proteolysis among the four additives, followed by LP + S. They inhibited the activities of all three plant proteases and decreased production of nonprotein nitrogen, free amino acids and ammonia nitrogen during the ensiling process.
Path analysis of caregiver characteristics and neuropsychiatric symptoms in Alzheimer's disease patients
Authors: Delfino Lais L , Komatsu Ricardo S , Komatsu Caroline , Neri Anita L , Cachioni Meire
Published: May 2018

Aim

To determine the direct and indirect relationships of sociodemographic, emotional and behavioral characteristics of family caregivers of Alzheimer's disease patients who have neuropsychiatric symptoms.

Methods

A total of 134 family caregivers answered a questionnaire with sociodemographic data, and questions regarding the context of care, Neuropsychiatric Inventory, Zarit Burden Interview, Dementia Management Strategies Scale and the Beck Depression Inventory. A path analysis was used to model the direct and indirect relationships among the selected variables.

Results

Being a female caregiver, presenting high levels of burden, a moderate degree of depressive symptoms, distress (Neuropsychiatric Inventory total distress score), active management strategies and criticism management strategies were significantly associated with the total score of neuropsychiatric symptoms. The caregiver burden and use of criticism management strategies were directly related to neuropsychiatric symptoms in older adults with Alzheimer's disease. The use of active management strategies and depressive symptoms of caregivers had indirect relationships with neuropsychiatric symptoms through caregiver burden.

Conclusions

Overburdened caregivers and the use of dysfunctional management strategies are associated with a greater presence of neuropsychiatric symptoms in Alzheimer's disease patients. These aspects should be considered when developing interventions for caregivers to manage neuropsychiatric symptoms and overall treatment of patients with dementia. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2018; 18: 1177–1182.
Functional and clinical outcomes of patients aged younger and older than 85 years after rehabilitation post‐hip fracture surgery in a co‐managed orthogeriatric unit
Authors: Mazzola Paolo , Floris Patrizia , Picone Domenico , Anzuini Alessandra , Tsiantouli Eleni , Haas Justin , Bellelli Giuseppe , De Filippi Francesco , Annoni Giorgio
Published: May 2018

Aim

Literature investigating rehabilitation outcomes after hip surgery among individuals aged ≥85 years is sparse. We compared the characteristics and outcomes of patients aged under and over 85 years, and assessed factors potentially associated with rehabilitation success as described by the Barthel Index (BI).

Methods

From 2011 to 2014, we prospectively enrolled 328 patients (n = 152 aged <85 years, n = 176 aged ≥85 years) admitted to an orthogeriatric unit (Sondrio, Italy) with a diagnosis of hip fracture requiring surgical treatment. We excluded patients who were being treated conservatively. Outcomes included absolute functional gain (AFG; BI at discharge − BI on admission), rehabilitation effectiveness index (AFG / length of stay) and postoperative complications.

Results

Older patients were more functionally (mean BI on admission: 11.7 ± 9.6 vs 16.4 ± 12.2, P < 0.001) and cognitively impaired than their younger counterparts (34.1% vs 18.4%, P < 0.001). Surgery time (1.9 ± 1.2 vs 2.3 ±1.3 days, P = 0.008) and length of stay were shorter for older patients (5.7 ± 2.1 vs 6.6 ± 2.4 days, P < 0.001). There were no differences in terms of complications. Patients aged <85 years showed better functional outcomes (BI, AFG, REI) at discharge than patients aged ≥85 years (mean AFG: 38.2 ± 24.2 vs 26.1 ± 22.0, P < 0.001). BI on admission (OR 1.05, 95% CI 1.02–1.08) and cognitive impairment (OR 0.58, 95% CI 0.34–0.98) were independently associated with rehabilitation outcomes, regardless of chronological age.

Conclusions

Both groups (aged <85 and ≥85 years) showed a significant functional improvement at discharge. Older patients show a residual ability to recover after surgery. A high rehabilitation efficiency – regardless of age – should be pursued even for the oldest old patients experiencing hip fracture. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2018; 18: 1194–1199.
A process model of health consciousness: Its application to the prevention of workplace prescription drug misuse
Authors: Bennett Joel B. , Lucas Gale M. , Linde Brittany D. , Neeper Michael A. , Hudson Michael , Gatchel Robert J.
Published: May 2018

The concept of health consciousness (HC), previously studied as a dispositional construct, holds promise for brief prevention training in work settings. The current study developed a more process‐oriented model of HC. Employer’s increasing concerns about worker prescription drug (Rx) misuse represents an opportunity to study and improve HC. Two pilot studies delivered a brief training program and assessed short‐term, pre‐ to post–self‐reports of factors related to HC. The first pilot (n = 162) attempted to evaluate a stress/resilience program (“Raw Coping Power”) that sought to improve worker ability to recognize and correct unhealthy coping behaviors. A second pilot (n = 114) attempted to evaluate an Rx misuse prevention program that sought to enhance awareness of HC as a protective factor. Both pilots used a driver analysis to examine correlates of improved HC. These correlates included increased confidence in one’s ability to evaluate risks, and awareness of healthy alternatives. Many employees also found the concept of HC useful. Previous writings about HC, in combination with current results, informed the design of a new, process‐oriented model of HC. The current paper offers this model and a driver analysis methodology that future researchers can use to further explore and more fully evaluate brief HC interventions in work settings.
Same‐gender supervisors protect women's leadership aspirations after negative performance feedback
Authors: Ni H. Wenwen , Huo Yuen J.
Published: May 2018

Two studies examined how the gender of a workplace supervisor can affect a woman's response to performance evaluations and also her professional advancement aspirations. In Study 1, employed women reviewed a performance evaluation in which feedback was manipulated to reflect one of two stereotypes of women (high in warmth or low in competence). Findings showed that participants were more likely to attribute negative (i.e., low competence) feedback from men supervisors to gender biases than the same feedback from women supervisors. There was no effect of supervisor gender when the feedback was positive (i.e., high warmth) or neutral. In Study 2, negative feedback from men supervisors, regardless of evaluative dimension (competence or warmth) resulted in women reporting decreased professional aspirations. This relationship was mediated by women's attribution of supervisor feedback to gender biases. Together, these findings suggest that same‐gender supervisors can potentially buffer women's long term professional aspirations after a discouraging performance review.
Breeding phased dependent oxidative balance in a small High Arctic seabird, the little auk
Authors: Kulaszewicz Izabela , Wojczulanis‐Jakubas Katarzyna , Jakubas Dariusz
Published: May 2018

Reproduction is a demanding phase of bird's life cycle and imposes various physiological challenges. Increasing oxidative stress (OS) has been proposed as one of the costs associated with reproduction. In this study, we investigate the level of OS in a small Arctic seabird, the little aukAlle allein relation to sex and phase of breeding (incubation, chick‐rearing). We also examine whether OS is related to the birds leucocyte profile. We expected increase in OS with the progress of breeding period (due to increasing energetic demands) and higher values in females (due to high initial investments in production of a large egg). Surprisingly, we found higher OS during incubation compared to chick‐rearing period, suggesting that incubation is a highly demanding reproductive phase in terms of oxidative balance. We suggests that those changes may be attributed to changes in hormone levels affecting oxidative status. Also, in contrasts to our expectations, we did not find sex differences in OS throughout the studied periods of breeding. Finally, we found positive relationships between OS level and haematological parameters: heterophils/lymphocytes ratio, number of leucocytes and lymphocytes per 10 000 erythrocytes, suggesting the effect of the oxidative stress on the immunological system.