bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Differential demographic filtering by surface fires: How fuel type and fuel load affect sapling mortality of an obligate seeder savanna tree
Authors: Bowman David M. J. S. , Haverkamp Cédric , Rann Karl D. , Prior Lynda D. 
Published: July 2017

Abstract

We studied the effects of fuel type, fuel load and their associated flammability attributes on growth and survival of Callitris intratropica saplings. Callitris intratropica is a fire‐sensitive conifer that is widespread across northern Australia, but its range is contracting because of frequent and intense fires.

A small‐scale field experiment was used to compare the effect of three fuel types (grass, eucalypt litter and C. intratropica litter), and a mix of grass and eucalypt litter by varying fuel loads within their naturally occurring bounds, and measuring multiple flammability attributes.

Fuel type had the strongest influence on flammability attributes and hence sapling survival. Grass burnt rapidly, producing high temperatures, while duration of flaming was longer for eucalypt litter. Grass–eucalypt litter mixtures had flammability attributes more like grass, while C. intratropica litter was difficult to burn. Fuel load had a secondary effect, with strong interactions between fuel type and load.

Differences in sapling survival could be attributed to temperatures at 5 cm height; there was no additional effect of fuel type or canopy temperature. Sapling size variables were also important, and strongly correlated with bark thickness, so we could not identify the protective mechanism.

Synthesis. Mortality of Callitris intratropica saplings was consistent with damage to the lower stem, because of the direct relationship with temperatures at 5 cm height. Our results demonstrate the existence of a grass–fire cycle in C. intratropica stands, whereby hot fires damage the stands and allow grass to invade, increasing the stand ignitability and combustibility and promoting further fires. Interrupting this cycle by reducing grass fuel loads and hence the frequency of hot fires should therefore be a management priority to safeguard C. intratropica populations. Our findings also highlight that, under a common climate, vegetation type can shape fire regimes, because fuel type strongly influences flammability attributes, which in turn act as a powerful filter of plant populations.
Feasibility of using self‐reported ethnicity in pregnancy according to the gestation‐related optimal weight classification: a cross‐sectional study
Authors: Lockie E , McCarthy EA , Hui L , Churilov L , Walker SP 
Published: July 2017

ObjectiveTo evaluate the feasibility of self‐reported ethnicity using the gestation‐related optimal growth (GROW) classification in a contemporary multicultural antenatal population.DesignCross‐sectional study.SettingTertiary obstetric hospital in Melbourne, Australia.PopulationPregnant women attending the antenatal clinic.MethodsWe surveyed pregnant women during April–June 2016 regarding their understanding of the term ‘ethnicity’, and how they would classify the ethnicity of themselves, their partner, and family members according to the Australian GROW classification.ResultsTwo hundred and thirty‐five women completed the survey. When describing ‘ethnicity’, most women (103, 44%) chose multiple descriptors, most frequently country of birth (54%) and region of ancestry (47%). Interpretation of ‘ethnicity’ varied significantly between ethnic groups: those choosing ‘country of birth’ were more likely to identify as Indian (odds ratio, OR 3.5, P = 0.03), whereas those choosing ‘physical appearance’ were more likely to identify as Chinese (OR 3.0, P = 0.047). Thirty participants (13%) were unable to describe their ethnicity from the available GROW options. Sixty‐one (26%) respondents' ethnicity was inconsistent with that of their parents' heritage. A further 35% had a partner of different ethnicity. The agreement between country of birth and self‐reported ethnicity was only fair (kappa 0.73, 95% confidence interval, 95% CI 0.64–0.82).ConclusionThis study confirms the complexity of defining ethnicity in contemporary multicultural settings. Self‐reported ethnicity is often inaccurate, concepts of ethnicity vary by ethnic group, and country of birth is a poor descriptive surrogate. Adjustment for maternal ethnicity should be undertaken with caution in the customised assessment of fetal growth.Tweetable abstractIs self‐reported maternal ethnicity reliable? We think not.
Isolation and characterization of metaldehyde‐degrading bacteria from domestic soils
Authors: Thomas John C. , Helgason Thorunn , Sinclair Chris J. , Moir James W. B. 
Published: July 2017

SummaryMetaldehyde is a common molluscicide, used to control slugs in agriculture and horticulture. It is resistant to breakdown by current water treatment processes, and its accumulation in drinking water sources leads to regular regulatory failures in drinking water quality. To address this problem, we isolated metaldehyde‐degrading microbes from domestic soils. Two distinct bacterial isolates were cultured, that were able to grow prototrophically using metaldehyde as sole carbon and energy source. One isolate belonged to the genus Acinetobacter (strain designation E1) and the other isolate belonged to the genus Variovorax (strain designation E3). Acinetobacter E1 was able to degrade metaldehyde to a residual concentration < 1 nM, whereas closely related Acinetobacter strains were completely unable to degrade metaldehyde. Variovorax E3 grew and degraded metaldehyde more slowly than Acinetobacter E1, and residual metaldehyde remained at the end of growth of the Variovorax E3 strain. Biological degradation of metaldehyde using these bacterial strains or approaches that allow in situ amplification of metaldehyde‐degrading bacteria may represent a way forward for dealing with metaldehyde contamination in soils and water.
Melanocytic lesion evolution patterns with targeted therapies and immunotherapies for advanced metastatic melanoma: An observational study
Authors: Zhao Cathy Yunjia , Hwang Shelley Ji Eun , Wakade Deepal , Carlos Giuliana , Anforth Rachael , Fernández‐Peñas Pablo 
Published: July 2017

AbstractBackground/ObjectivesVarious cutaneous side‐effects have been reported with anti‐melanoma systemic therapies. This study investigated the changes in melanocytic lesion pigmentation in patients on four different therapies.MethodsWe analysed the serial dermatoscopic photographs of atypical melanocytic lesions taken from patients with advanced metastatic melanoma on four different systemic therapies (selective BRAF‐inhibitor monotherapy, dabrafenib combined with trametinib [D&T], anti‐programmed cell death protein 1 [anti‐PD1] therapies, and anti‐PD1 combined with ipilimumab) seen from February 2013 to May 2016. We compared these changes with the melanocytic lesions of 10 control patients.ResultsIn the control group, 19% of naevi lightened, 64% did not change and 17% darkened. Only the BRAF inhibitor group showed more darkened lesions than controls (37%, P < 0.001). Meanwhile, there were more lightened naevi in the D&T therapy group (86%, P < 0.001) as well as the anti‐PD1 and ipilimumab groups (59%, P < 0.001) than controls. Patients on anti‐PD1 monotherapy had more lightened (49%) and fewer darkened naevi (9%) than controls, but differences were not significant.ConclusionsOur study showed that different anti‐melanoma systemic therapies have different effects on the pigmentation of melanocytic lesions. BRAF inhibitor may have the propensity to cause darkening while D&T therapy and anti‐PD1 caused lightening compared with controls. The findings emphasise the importance of regular dermatological monitoring in specialised clinics for patients on anti‐melanoma systemic therapy. Clinicians should expect changes in the global pigmentation of melanocytic lesions but be suspicious of lesions with structural changes.
Adolescents with type 1 diabetes mellitus and attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder require specific support from healthcare professionals
Authors: Lindblad Ida , Engström Ann‐Charlotte , Nylander Charlotte , Fernell Elisabeth 
Published: July 2017

AbstractAimManaging type 1 diabetes mellitus requires efficient cognitive and executive skills, and adolescents who have attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) may face specific challenges. This study explored young people′s experiences of diabetes treatment and care.MethodIn a population‐based study, comprising 175 patients aged 5–16 years with type 1 diabetes mellitus in two Swedish counties, we found that eight also met criteria for ADHD. Six of these, aged 14.5–16 years, participated 2013–2014 in interviews that targeted aspects of their diabetes treatment. Conducted by two psychologists, these used the inductive qualitative, semi‐structured interview format.ResultsThe two boys and four girls all reported difficulties in creating routines for their diabetes treatment and that problems were aggravated during stress. They had been criticised by their parents and the diabetes team when their blood levels indicated inadequate diabetes control. They requested ongoing information, involvement of their friends, group meetings and easy access to the healthcare system during difficult times.ConclusionPatients with type 1 diabetes mellitus and concomitant ADHD faced problems with their diabetes management, especially during stressful situations. Diabetes care provision should pay particular attention to patients with co‐existing neuropsychiatric and neurodevelopmental disorders such as ADHD.
Two cases of early recurrence after transabdominal preperitoneal inguinal hernia repair
Authors: Yaguchi Yoshihisa , Inaba Tsuyoshi , Kumata Yoshimasa , Horikawa Masahiro , Kiyokawa Takashi , Fukushima Ryoji 
Published: July 2017

AbstractWe performed transabdominal preperitoneal inguinal hernia repair in 46 patients (58 diseases), two of whom experienced early recurrence after mesh repair. Case 1 was a 76‐year‐old man with a bilateral inguinal hernia (recurrence site, left indirect hernia) after appendectomy. The recurrence occurred 1 month after transabdominal preperitoneal inguinal hernia repair. The mesh was dislocated to the lateral side, and we repaired it using the direct Kugel® patch with an anterior technique. Case 2 was a 79‐year‐old man with a bilateral inguinal hernia (recurrence site, right direct hernia with an orifice >3 cm) after appendectomy. The recurrence occurred 3 months after transabdominal preperitoneal inguinal hernia repair. The mesh was dislocated to the lateral side, and we repaired it using an ULTRAPRO® Plug with an anterior technique under laparoscopic observation. We believe the recurrences resulted from insufficient internal exfoliation and fixation affected by complicated exfoliation of the preperitoneal space with omental adhesion after intraperitoneal surgery.
Redundant and regulatory roles for Toll-like receptors inLeishmaniainfection
Authors: Chauhan P , Shukla D , Chattopadhyay D , Saha B 
Published: July 2017

SummaryToll-like receptors (TLRs) are germline-encoded, non-clonal innate immune receptors, which are often the first receptors to recognize the molecular patterns on pathogens. Therefore, the immune response initiated by TLRs has far-reaching consequences on the outcome of an infection. As soon as the cell surface TLRs and other receptors recognize a pathogen, the pathogen is phagocytosed. Inclusion of TLRs in the phagosome results in quicker phagosomal maturation and stronger adaptive immune response, as TLRs influence co-stimulatory molecule expression and determinant selection by major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II and MHC class I for cross-presentation. The signals delivered by the TCR–peptide–MHC complex and co-stimulatory molecules are indispensable for optimal T cell activation. In addition, the cytokines induced by TLRs can skew the differentiation of activated T cells to different effector T cell subsets. However, the potential of TLRs to influence adaptive immune response into different patterns is severely restricted by multiple factors: gross specificity for the molecular patterns, lack of receptor rearrangements, sharing of limited number of adaptors that assemble signalling complexes and redundancy in ligand recognition. These features of apparent redundancy and regulation in the functioning of TLRs characterize them as important and probable contributory factors in the resistance or susceptibility to an infection.
The associations of large‐for‐gestational‐age and infant feeding practices with children's body mass index z‐score trajectories: the Early Childhood Longitudinal Study, Birth Cohort
Authors: Salahuddin M. , Pérez A. , Ranjit N. , Hoelscher D. M. , Kelder S. H. 
Published: July 2017

SummaryVery few studies have examined if high birth weight and infant feeding practices have implications for the trajectory of body mass index (BMI) growth across the early childhood period. The goal of this study was to assess if large‐for‐gestational‐age (LGA) and infant feeding practices (exclusive breastfeeding for 6 months, and early introduction of complementary food prior to 4 months) are associated with BMI z‐score trajectories over the early childhood period. Group‐based trajectory modelling (GBTM) methods were employed to describe and classify developmental BMI z‐score trajectories (the outcome of interest) in children from 9 months to 4 years of age (n = 4497) born to prenatal non‐smoking mothers in the Early Childhood Longitudinal Study, Birth Cohort (2001–2005). Further analyses examined if the identified BMI z‐score trajectories varied systematically with the exposures, LGA and specific infant feeding practices, after accounting for sociodemographic and other early‐life factors. Two BMI z‐score trajectory groups were identified: normal BMI z‐score (56.2%) and high BMI z‐score (43.8%). Children who were LGA infants had 2.3 times (risk ratio 95% confidence interval: 1.2, 4.5) greater risk of being in high BMI z‐score group relative to normal BMI z‐score group. BMI z‐score trajectory groups did not differ by infant feeding practices, after controlling for LGA at birth. Membership in the high BMI z‐score group was associated with LGA, but not with infant feeding practices. Healthcare professionals should provide early obesity counselling to parents of LGA infants so that parents can take appropriate obesity prevention measures for their children.
Analysis of the correlation between knee extension torque and patellar tendon elastic property
Authors: Mannarino P. , Lima K. M. M. , Fontenelle C. R. C. , Matta T. T. , de Salles B. F. , Simão R. , Oliveira L. F. 
Published: July 2017

SummaryPurposeQuadriceps strength and patellar tendon (PT) are directly linked and intimately related to daily activities and lower limb function. However, the correlation between knee extension torque (KT) and PT Young's modulus (E) measured directly is still unknown.MethodWe used supersonic shearwave imaging (SSI) to evaluate the elastic property of PT in healthy young men and analysed its correlation with KT. Twenty‐two healthy young males were included and both knees were examined. The E of the PT in the dominant and non‐dominant legs was assessed by SSI elastography. KT in maximal voluntary isometric contraction was measured with an isokinetic dynamometer.ResultNo correlations between KT and PT E were observed in dominant or non‐dominant side (P = 0·458 and 0·126, respectively). No significant differences in KT or PT E were observed between both legs (P = 0·096 and 0·722, respectively). Intra‐day ICC was rated good (D1 – 0·886, P<0·001 and 0·88, P<0·001) and excellent (D2 – 0·928, P<0·001 and 0·900, P<0·001) for both legs. Inter‐day ICC was rated moderate for both legs (0·651, P = 0·016 and 0·630, P = 0·018, respectively).ConclusionNo significant correlations were found between KT and PT E, suggesting that quadriceps strength is not an accurate predictor for PT mechanical properties in subjects with no specific training engagement. Habitual loading pattern can play a determinant role in PT mechanical properties, regardless of quadriceps strength. Further investigation on SSI acquisition protocols should be conducted to guarantee higher inter‐day ICC values.
Equine peripheral dental caries: An epidemiological survey assessing prevalence and possible risk factors in Western Australian horses
Authors: Jackson K. , Kelty E. , Tennant M. 
Published: July 2017

SummaryBackgroundPeripheral dental caries is defined as macroscopic destruction of the calcified dental tissues and can cause considerable dental pathology and pain. It appears to occur at a high prevalence in Western Australian horses. At present, risk factors for the condition are poorly understood, making treatment and prevention difficult.ObjectivesTo assess the prevalence of and potential risk factors for peripheral caries in Western Australian horses.Study designCross‐sectional, epidemiological study.MethodsA survey of 500 Western Australian horses was administered in two sections. The first section was completed by the owner and referred to the horse's signalment, diet and husbandry conditions. The second section was completed by veterinarians and focused on the horse's oral health. A multivariable logistic regression model was used to assess risk factors associated with peripheral caries.ResultsPeripheral caries was present in 58.8% (95% confidence interval [CI] 54.5–63.1%) of surveyed horses. Breed was significantly associated with peripheral caries, with Warmbloods (odds ratio [OR] 0.44, 95% CI 0.24–0.82; P = 0.009) and Western breeds (OR 0.38, 95% CI 0.19–0.78; P = 0.008) being less likely to have peripheral caries than Thoroughbreds. Dietary risk factors included oaten hay (OR 2.90, 95% CI 1.87–4.53; P<0.001). A meadow hay‐based diet was protective (OR 0.47, 95% CI 0.27–0.80; P = 0.005). Horses with access to quality pasture all year were less likely to have peripheral caries than horses without access to grazing (OR 0.31, 95% CI 0.15–0.66; P = 0.002), as were horses on groundwater compared with horses on rainwater (OR 3.35, 95% CI 1.65–6.78; P = 0.001), drinking water (OR 2.03, 95% CI 1.14–3.62; P = 0.016) or dam water (OR 3.53, 95% CI 1.08–11.53; P = 0.037). Peripheral caries was positively correlated with periodontal disease (OR 4.53, 95% CI 2.91–7.06; P<0.001) and feed packing (feed present between the teeth without significant periodontal pocketing) (OR 1.94, 95% CI 1.32–2.85; P = 0.001).Main limitationsNot every owner of eligible horses seen during the study period agreed to participate. An epidemiological study is unable to show causality.ConclusionsWestern Australian horses have a high prevalence of peripheral caries. Management factors that may help to prevent or reduce peripheral caries include more access to quality pasture, use of groundwater, feeding on meadow hay and avoidance of oaten hay.
Peroral endoscopic myotomy is safe and effective in achalasia patients aged older than 60 years compared with younger patients
Authors: Tang Xiaowei , Ren Yutang , Gao Qiaoping , Huang Silin , Zhou Jieqiong , Zhang Xiaofeng , Yang Jianfeng , Wei Zhengjie , Chen Zhenyu , Jiang Bo , Gong Wei 
Published: July 2017

AimPeroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) has been proven to be effective for treating achalasia, but there are limited data on POEM in elderly patients. We therefore aimed to assess the role of POEM for achalasia in patients aged ≥60 years.MethodsAll consecutive patients that underwent POEM between December 2011 and November 2015 at a single center were retrospectively reviewed. Patients aged ≥60 years were assigned to group A, whereas patients aged <60 years were assigned to group B. Demographic data, clinical data and treatment outcomes were compared between the two groups.ResultsDuring the study period, 113 patients (18 in group A, and 95 in group B) were enrolled. The mean age of patients in group A was 63 ± 3.9 years (range 60–74 years; 55.6% women), and that for patients in group B was 37.7 ± 11.6 years (range 18–59 years; 42.2% women). The procedural time in group A was similar to group B (66.3 ± 33.3 vs 59.8 ± 24.2 min, P = 0.332). There were also no significant differences in the incidence of intraoperative complications (P = 1.000) and gastroesophageal reflux rate (P = 0.906) between the two groups. During the mean follow‐up period of 25.2 months, treatment success (Eckardt score ≤3) was achieved in 92.9% of patients in group A, and 89.9% in group B (P = 1.000).ConclusionsAs well as in younger patients, POEM can be safely carried out in elderly patients, providing significant symptom relief. POEM might be recommended as the first therapeutic approach to elderly achalasia patients. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2017; 17: 2407–2413.
Acne prevalence and associations with lifestyle: a cross‐sectional online survey of adolescents/young adults in 7 European countries
Authors: Wolkenstein P. , Machovcová A. , Szepietowski J.C. , Tennstedt D. , Veraldi S. , Delarue A. 
Published: July 2017

AbstractBackgroundAlthough acne vulgaris is a common skin disorder, limited epidemiological data exist specifically for European populations.ObjectiveTo determine the prevalence of self‐reported acne among young people in Europe and evaluate the effect of lifestyle on acne.MethodsWe conducted a cross‐sectional population‐based online survey in representative samples of individuals aged 15–24 years in Belgium, Czech and Slovak Republics, France, Italy, Poland and Spain (n = 10 521), identified by a quota sampling method based on age, geographic location and socio‐professional category.ResultsThe overall adjusted prevalence of self‐reported acne was 57.8% (95% confidence interval 56.9% to 58.7%). The rates per country ranged from 42.2% in Poland to 73.5% in the Czech and Slovak Republics. The prevalence of acne was highest at age 15–17 years and decreased with age. On multivariate analysis, a history of maternal or paternal acne was associated with an increased probability of having acne (odds ratio 3.077, 95%CI2.743 to 3.451, and 2.700, 95%CI2.391 to 3.049, respectively; bothP < 0.0001), as was the consumption of chocolate (OR1.276, 95%CI1.094 to 1.488, for quartile 4 vs. quartile 1). Increasing age (OR0.728, 95%CI0.639 to 0.830 for age 21–24 years vs. 15–17 years) and smoking tobacco (OR0.705, 95%CI0.616 to 0.807) were associated with a reduced probability of acne.ConclusionThe overall prevalence of self‐reported acne was high in adolescents/young adults in the European countries investigated. Heredity was the main risk factor for developing acne.