bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Has the attention deficit hyperactivity disorder phenotype become more common in children between 2004 and 2014? Trends over 10 years from a Swedish general population sample
Authors: Rydell Mina , Lundström Sebastian , Gillberg Christopher , Lichtenstein Paul , Larsson Henrik 
Published: February 2018

BackgroundStudies have reported increases in clinically diagnosed and treated attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) during the last decade, but it is unclear if this reflects an increase in the underlying ADHD phenotype. We aimed to clarify if there has been an increase in the prevalence of ADHD‐like traits in the general population from 2004 to 2014.MethodData were collected from 9‐year‐old twins (19,271), participating in the population‐based Child and Adolescent Twin Study in Sweden between 2004 and 2014. We assessed lifetime ADHD symptoms using the Autism‐Tics, ADHD and other Comorbidities inventory. Research proxies for diagnostic‐level ADHD and subthreshold ADHD were derived from this scale. We modeled the lifetime prevalence of diagnostic‐level and subthreshold ADHD with logistic regression, and assessed mean ADHD scores each year with linear regression. Lifetime prevalence of clinically diagnosed ADHD was retrieved from the National Patient Register and modeled with logistic regression.ResultsThe prevalence of diagnostic‐level ADHD based on parent ratings did not differ significantly over time from 2004 to 2014 (OR 1.37; 95% CI: 0.77–2.45; p‐value .233). Both subthreshold ADHD and mean ADHD scores increased significantly over time (both p‐values <.001). Clinically diagnosed ADHD increased more than fivefold from 2004 to 2014 (OR 5.27, 95% CI: 1.85–14.96).ConclusionsWe found no evidence of an increase in ADHD‐like traits at the extreme end of the distribution from 2004 to 2014, but small increases in normal and subthreshold variations of ADHD‐like traits were observed. This suggests that the increased rates of clinically diagnosed ADHD might reflect changes in diagnostic and treatment practices of ADHD, administrative changes in reporting diagnoses, greater awareness of ADHD, better access to healthcare, or current overdiagnosis, rather than an increase in the ADHD phenotype.
Retrospective analysis: Conservative treatment of placenta increta with methotrexate
Authors: Zhang Chunhua , Li Hongyan , Zuo Changting , Wang Xietong 
Published: February 2018

AbstractAimTo evaluate the efficacy of conservative treatment with methotrexate against placenta increta by two different routes of administration through retrospective analysis.MethodsA total of 54 women diagnosed with placenta increta after vaginal delivery were enrolled in this retrospective study. The participants accepted conservative management with methotrexate through either intravenous injection or local multi‐point injection under ultrasound guidance. The treatment was considered effective if no hysterectomy was mandatory during the follow‐up period.ResultsOut of the 54 cases, 21 patients were treated with methotrexate intravenously (group 1), and 33 patients received local multi‐point injection to the placenta increta under ultrasound guidance (group 2). No maternal death occurred. In group 1, 10 patients expelled the placentas spontaneously, 7 patients underwent uterine curettage and 4 patients underwent hysterectomy for uncontrollable post‐partum hemorrhage and infection. In group 2, 25 patients expelled placentas spontaneously and 8 patients underwent uterine curettage with no incidence of hysterectomy. The success rate in group 1 and group 2 was 17/21 and 33/33, respectively. The average time of the spontaneous placenta expulsion was 79.13 ± 29.87 days in group 1 and 42.42 ± 31.83 days in group 2.ConclusionLocal multi‐point methotrexate injection under ultrasound guidance is a better alternative for patients with placenta increta, especially for preserving fertility.
In vitro characterization of pH-sensitive Bletilla Striata polysaccharide copolymer micelles and enhanced tumour suppression in vivo
Authors: Zhao Lichun , Sun Dandan , Lu Haibin , Han Bing , Zhang Guangyuan , Guan Qingxiang 
Published: February 2018

Abstract

Objectives
A system of stearic acid (SA)-modified Bletilla striata polysaccharide (BSP) micelles was developed for the targeted delivery of docetaxel (DTX) as a model anticancer drug (DTX-SA-BSP).

Methods
Particle size, zeta potential and DTX release in vitro were measured in release media at different pH values. Quantitative cellular uptake, cytotoxicity assay in vitro and antitumour efficacy in vivo were also evaluated. Cell apoptosis was assessed by flow cytometry.

Key findings
DTX-SA-BSP copolymer micelles displayed pH-dependent properties in the respects of particle size, zeta potential and in vitro release behaviour ranging from pH 5.0 to pH 7.4. DTX-SA-BSP copolymer micelles showed higher release rate at pH 5.0 than that at pH 6.0 and 7.4. In vitro cytotoxic effect of DTX-SA-BSP copolymer micelles was higher than that of DTX injection. The results of high-performance liquid chromatography determination confirmed that DTX cellular uptake of micelles was enhanced compared with that of DTX injection. Anticancer activity in vivo further confirmed the enhanced tumour targeting and anticancer efficacy of DTX-SA-BSP copolymer micelles.

Conclusions
The above results show that DTX-SA-BSP copolymer micelles have pH sensitivity. SA-BSP copolymers are a promising carrier for delivering hydrophobic anticancer drugs.
Effect of ionization, bedding, and feeding on air quality in a horse stable
Authors: Siegers Esther Willemijn , Anthonisse Milou , van Eerdenburg Frank J. C. M. , van den Broek Jan , Wouters Inge M. , Westermann Cornélie Martine 
Published: February 2018

BackgroundOrganic dust is associated with Equine asthma. Ionization should reduce airborne dust levels.ObjectivesTo determine the effect of ionization of air, type of bedding, and feed on the levels of airborne dust, endotoxin, and fungal colonies in horse stables.Animals24 healthy University‐owned horses occupied the stables.MethodsA randomized controlled cross‐over study. Four units with 6 stables were equipped with an ionization installation (25 VA, 5000 Volt Direct Current). Horses were kept either on wood shavings and fed haylage (2 units), or on straw and fed dry hay (2 units). Measurements were performed with and without activated ionization, during daytime and nighttime, repeatedly over the course of a week and repeatedly during 4‐6 weeks. Statistical analysis was performed using a mixed effect model with Akaike's Information Criterion for model reduction and 95% profile (log) likelihood confidence intervals (CI).ResultsIonization did not alter concentrations of dust, endotoxin, or fungi, fewer. In the units with straw and hay, the concentration of dust, endotoxin, and fungi (difference in logarithmic mean 1.92 (95%CI 1.71‐2.12); 2.86 (95%CI 2.59‐3.14); 1.75 (95%CI 1.13‐2.36)) were significantly higher compared to wood shavings and haylage.Conclusions and Clinical ImportanceThe installation of a negative air‐ionizer in the horse stable did not reduce concentrations of dust, endotoxin, and viable fungal spores. The substantial effect of low dust bedding and feed is confirmed.
Dominance of individual plant species is more important than diversity in explaining plant biomass in the forest understorey
Authors: Wasof Safaa , Lenoir Jonathan , Hattab Tarek , Jamoneau Aurélien , Gallet‐Moron Emilie , Ampoorter Evy , Saguez Robert , Bennsadek Lamine , Bertrand Romain , Valdès Alicia , Verheyen Kris , Decocq Guillaume 
Published: February 2018

AbstractQuestionsHow does plant community diversity influence variation in plant biomass? There are two competing hypotheses: the ‘biomass ratio’ hypothesis, where biomass is influenced by the abundance and traits of the most dominant species, and the ‘diversity’ hypothesis, where the diversity of organisms influences biomass through mechanisms such as niche complementarity. However, no studies have tested which one of these two hypotheses better explains the variation in plant biomass in the forest understorey.LocationTemperate deciduous forests in northern France.MethodsFor the forest understorey, we assessed species diversity and biomass as well as soil and light conditions in 133 forest plots of 100 m² each. Using mixed‐effect models and after controlling for potential confounding factors, we tested the ‘biomass ratio’ hypothesis by relating the relative abundance of the most dominant species across our study sites and the CWM of plant traits (leaf area and plant height) to biomass. The ‘diversity’ hypothesis was tested by relating biomass to various measures of taxonomic, functional and phylogenetic diversity.ResultsBiomass of the forest understorey was mainly related to the relative abundance and the trait values of the most dominant species, supporting the ‘biomass ratio’ hypothesis. In contrast to the ‘diversity’ hypothesis, functional diversity indices had a negative impact on biomass. We found no contribution of taxonomic or phylogenetic diversity indices.ConclusionThe abundance and traits of the most dominant species matter more than taxonomic, functional or phylogenetic diversity of the forest understorey in explaining its biomass. Thus, there is a need for experiments that aim to fully understand keystone species’ responses to on‐going changing biotic and abiotic conditions and to predict their effects on ecosystem functioning and processes.
Factors that influenced undergoing renal replacement therapy and survival in children with acute kidney injury
Authors: Oztek‐Celebi Fatma Z , Ozlu Sare G , Aydog Ozlem 
Published: February 2018

ABSTRACTAimAcute kidney injury (AKI) is an important clinical condition that is associated with increased mortality and morbidity. This study was performed to identify the factors that influence AKI stage, undergoing renal replacement therapy (RRT) and mortality.MethodsThis study was retrospectively conducted on 219 children with AKI who had been referred to the paediatric nephrology division of Dr Sami Ulus Teaching Hospital during their inpatient treatment from 2008 to 2012. AKI was defined using pRIFLE criteria.ResultsFrom the 219 enrolled patients, 131 were identified as having AKI at the time of hospital admission. Infant age group was the largest group. RRT was performed in 68 patients. Median RRT initiation time was 1.5 day (0–2) and the mortality increased significantly when RRT initiation time was >1 day. The likelihood of undergoing RRT was higher for patients who were younger, who were managed in PICU and who had intrinsic type of AKI. pRIFLE stage and AKI place did not influence the likelihood of undergoing RRT. Overall mortality was 26.9%. In log‐rank tests, factors influencing survival were younger age, being treated in PICU, developing AKI during inpatient treatment, having a comorbid condition and undergoing RRT. pRIFLE stage did not influence survival. In the logistic regression model, factors associated with mortality included younger age, undergoing RRT and having AKI during inpatient treatment. Having underlying disease and being managed in PICU did not influence the likelihood of death.ConclusionAcute kidney injury is an important condition in all hospitalized patients. More studies and interventions are needed on this topic to identify, treat and prevent AKI.
Degenerate‐disc Infection Study with Contaminant Control: Discussion on the Research Methods
Authors: Rao Prashanth J , Chau Christine , Phan Kevin , Mobbs Ralph J 
Published: February 2018

ObjectiveThe role of bacterial infection in the causation of disc degeneration and its consequences is controversial. The current evidence is limited to underpowered studies, with the majority of such studies having only an internal contaminant arm, and only one study having a control arm with a non‐degenerate disc population. The Degenerate‐disc Infection Study with Contaminant Control (DISC) study includes a control arm and an internal contaminant control to resolve these shortcomings.MethodsThe study is designed as a case‐control study: cases are patients undergoing surgery for degenerated disc pathology and controls are patients undergoing surgery for non‐degenerate pathology, such as trauma, scoliosis or tumor cases.ResultsThis study is part of a multi‐centric trial involving six spine centers with 15 spine surgeons contributing. The DISC study methodology, rationale and controversies are presented here. The predominant issue is how to interpret contamination. We present our algorithm for the DISC study to address this. For disc samples that are positive concurrently with positive paraspinal tissue sample, the result will be interpreted as contamination. For positive disc samples with a negative paraspinal tissue culture result, the interpretation of this result will be infection. If cultures for both disc sample and paraspinal tissue sample are negative, then the result is interpreted as non‐infected. If the disc culture is negative but paraspinal tissue culture is positive, then it is treated as a contaminant.ConclusionsFuture large‐scale studies are required with a good control arm, a contamination arm, and histopathological correlations.
Biomechanical Analysis of a Novel Intercalary Prosthesis for Humeral Diaphyseal Segmental Defect Reconstruction
Authors: Zhao Li‐ming , Tian Dong‐mu , Wei Yue , Zhang Jun‐hui , Di Zheng‐lin , He Zhi‐yong , Hu Yong‐cheng 
Published: February 2018

ObjectiveTo study the biomechanical properties of a novel modular intercalary prosthesis for humeral diaphyseal segmental defect reconstruction, to establish valid finite element humerus and prosthesis models, and to analyze the biomechanical differences in modular intercalary prostheses with or without plate fixation.MethodsThree groups were set up to compare the performance of the prosthesis: intact humerus, humerus–prosthesis and humerus–prosthesis–plate. The models of the three groups were transferred to finite element software. Boundary conditions, material properties, and mesh generation were set up for both the prosthesis and the humerus. In addition, 100 N or 2 N.m torsion was loaded to the elbow joint surface with the glenohumeral joint surface fixed. Humeral finite element models were established according to CT scans of the cadaveric bone; reverse engineering software Geomagic was used in this procedure. Components of prosthetic models were established using 3‐D modeling software Solidworks. To verify the finite element models, the in vitro tests were simulated using a mechanical testing machine (Bionix; MTS Systems Corporation, USA). Starting with a 50 N preload, the specimen was subjected to 5 times tensile (300 N) and torsional (5 N.m) strength; interval time was 30 min to allow full recovery for the next specimen load. Axial tensile and torsional loads were applied to the elbow joint surface to simulate lifting heavy objects or twisting something, with the glenohumeral joint surface fixed.ResultsStress distribution on the humerus did not change its tendency notably after reconstruction by intercalary prosthesis whether with or without a plate. The special design which included a plate and prosthesis effectively diminished stress on the stem where aseptic loosening often takes place. Stress distribution major concentrate upon two stems without plate addition, maximum stress on proximal and distal stem respectively diminish 27.37% and 13.23% under tension, 10.66% and 11.16% under torsion after plate allied.ConclusionThe novel intercalary prosthesis has excellent ability to reconstruct humeral diaphyseal defects. The accessory fixation system, which included a plate and prosthesis, improved the rigidity of anti‐tension and anti‐torsion, and diminished the risk of prosthetic loosening and dislocation. A finite element analysis is a kind of convenient and practicable method to be used as the confirmation of experimental biomechanics study.
Silencing barley cystatins HvCPI‐2 and HvCPI‐4 specifically modifies leaf responses to drought stress
Authors: Velasco‐Arroyo Blanca , Diaz‐Mendoza Mercedes , Gomez‐Sanchez Andrea , Moreno‐Garcia Beatriz , Santamaria Maria Estrella , Torija‐Bonilla Miguel , Hensel Goetz , Kumlehn Jochen , Martinez Manuel , Diaz Isabel 
Published: February 2018

AbstractProtein breakdown and mobilization are some of the major metabolic features associated with abiotic stresses, essential for nutrient recycling and plant survival. Genetic manipulation of protease and/or protease inhibitors may contribute to modulate proteolytic processes and plant responses. The expression analysis of the whole cystatin family, inhibitors of C1A cysteine proteases, after water deprivation in barley leaves highlighted the involvement of Icy‐2 and Icy‐4 cystatin genes. Artificial microRNA lines independently silencing the two drought‐induced cystatins were generated to assess their function in planta. Phenotype alterations at the final stages of the plant life cycle are represented by the stay‐green phenotype of silenced cystatin 2 lines. Besides, the enhanced tolerance to drought and differential responses to water deprivation at the initial growing stages are observed. The mutual compensating expression of Icy‐2 and Icy‐4 genes in the silencing lines pointed to their cooperative role. Proteolytic patterns by silencing these cystatins were concomitant with modifications in the expression of potential target proteases, in particular, HvPap‐1, HvPap‐12, and HvPap‐16 C1A proteases. Metabolomics analysis lines also revealed specific modifications in the accumulation of several metabolites. These findings support the use of plants with altered proteolytic regulation in crop improvement in the face of climate change.
Polymorphisms in the microglial marker molecule CX3CR1 affect the blood volume of the human brain
Authors: Sakai Mai , Takeuchi Hikaru , Yu Zhiqian , Kikuchi Yoshie , Ono Chiaki , Takahashi Yuta , Ito Fumiaki , Matsuoka Hiroo , Tanabe Osamu , Yasuda Jun , Taki Yasuyuki , Kawashima Ryuta , Tomita Hiroaki 
Published: February 2018

AimCX3CR1, a G‐protein‐coupled receptor, is involved in various inflammatory processes. Two non‐synonymous single nucleotide polymorphisms, V249I (rs3732379) and T280M (rs3732378), are located in the sixth and seventh transmembrane domains of the CX3CR1 protein, respectively. Previous studies have indicated significant associations between T280M and leukocyte functional characteristics, including adhesion, signaling, and chemotaxis, while the function of V249I is unclear. In the brain, microglia are the only proven and widely accepted CX3CR1‐expressing cells. This study aimed to specify whether there were specific brain regions on which these two single nucleotide polymorphisms exert their biological impacts through their functional effects on microglia.MethodsAssociations between the single nucleotide polymorphisms and brain characteristics, including gray and white matter volumes, white matter integrity, resting arterial blood volume, and cerebral blood flow, were evaluated among 1300 healthy Japanese individuals.ResultsThe major allele carriers (V249 and T280) were significantly associated with an increased total arterial blood volume of the whole brain, especially around the bilateral precuneus, left posterior cingulate cortex, and left posterior parietal cortex. There were no significant associations between the genotypes and other brain structural indicators.ConclusionThis finding suggests that the CX3CR1 variants may affect arterial structures in the brain, possibly via interactions between microglia and brain microvascular endothelial cells.
Annual Ambient UVB at Wavelengths that Induce Vitamin D Synthesis is Associated with Reduced Esophageal and Gastric Cancer Risk: A Nested Case–Control Study
Authors: O'Sullivan Fiona , van Geffen Jos , van Weele Michiel , Zgaga Lina 
Published: February 2018

AbstractVitamin D has been shown to be beneficial at reducing the risk of cancer; however, studies examining esophageal and gastric cancer have been scarce and findings inconsistent. The UK Biobank cohort was used for this nested case–control study (N = 3732). Primary, incident esophageal and gastric cancer cases diagnosed after recruitment were identified via linkage to National Cancer Registries. Tropospheric Emissions Monitoring Internet Service database was used to calculate ambient annual UVB dose (D‐UVB). Conditional logistic regression was used to investigate the relationship between annual ambient D‐UVB and risk of esophageal and gastric cancer, and odds ratios (ORs) are reported. In total, 373 esophageal and 249 gastric cancer cases and 3110 age‐ and gender‐matched controls were included in the study. We found a strong inverse association between annual ambient D‐UVB and odds of developing esophageal or gastric cancer: Compared to the lowest tertile, OR for the highest tertile was 0.64 (95%CI:0.51–0.79) in adjusted analysis. The association was strengthened when restricted to esophageal cancer (OR = 0.60; 95%CI:0.45–0.80) and esophageal adenocarcinoma cases (OR = 0.48; 95%CI: 0.34–0.68). Similar results were found in unadjusted and stratified analysis. In conclusion, ambient UVB radiation is inversely associated with the development of esophageal and gastric cancer, even in a high‐latitude country.
Gender differences in mathematics achievement in Jordan: A differential item functioning analysis of the 2015 TIMSS
Authors: Innabi Hanan , Dodeen Hamzeh 
Published: February 2018

AbstractThis study is within the framework of the United Nations sustainable development goals related to equitable quality education. The total score on the 2015 Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study that indicated eighth‐grade girls in Jordan significantly outperformed boys is hiding many details related to the quality of mathematics learning that reflect a gender gap. Data were analyzed using the Mantel–Haenszel differential item functioning analysis procedure to investigate test items that favored either boys or girls. The results showed that boys were more likely than girls to correctly answer the more difficult, unfamiliar, life‐related mathematical problems. In contrast, girls were more likely than boys to correctly answer the familiar, less difficult, and not life‐related problems. Some recommendations were suggested to diminish this gender gap that goes each way.
A Multivariate Study of Internet Use and the Digital Divide*
Authors: Serrano‐Cinca C. , Muñoz‐Soro J. F. , Brusca I. 
Published: February 2018

ObjectiveThis article explores the use of Internet, including social networks, e‐government services, and e‐commerce, from the perspective of the digital divide. First, it aims to find out what factors explain the digital divide. Second, the article aims to identify the groups that are digitally excluded.MethodThe article is based on survey data (N = 2,304) collected in Spain, which are analyzed using multiple regression, principal component analysis, and cluster analysis.ResultsTwo dimensions are identified: the first is the comprehensive use of Internet and the second is the nature of this use, differentiating between a professional use and a recreational and social use of Internet. The article verifies that factors explaining the digital divide are age, education level, and income.ConclusionsThe article identifies digitally excluded segments, and the efforts and actions for digital training to eradicate the digital divide should be directed at these groups. The most serious problem is encountered in homeworkers who are mainly woman. NEETs (not in education, employment, or training) are frequent users of Internet, but they only use it for entertainment and to certain extent they are digitally excluded.