Palaeogeography, Palaeoclimatology, Palaeoecology

Paleoceanographic changes across the Latest Danian Event in the South Atlantic Ocean and planktic foraminiferal response Publication date: 1 July 2019 Source: Palaeogeography, Palaeoclimatology, Palaeoecology, Volume 525 Author(s): Sofie Jehle, André Bornemann, Anna Friederike Lägel, Arne Deprez, Robert P. Speijer Abstract A number of short warming events occurred during Paleocene and Eocene, of which the "Paleocene-Eocene Thermal Maximum" (PETM, 56 Ma) is the most severe and most investigated event. The less known "Latest Danian Event" (LDE) at 62.2 Ma represents a 200 ky-lasting warming phase, superimposed on a long-term cooling trend after the Early Paleocene. South Atlantic ODP Site 1262 data, covering ~1 myr, indicate a warming of the entire water column by 1.5–2.6 °C, accompanying a prominent negative carbon isotope excursion (~0.9–1.1‰) and a long-term re-organization of the planktic foraminiferal fauna associated with the LDE. This study unravels a different paleoceanographic evolution of the upper ocean structure compared to results from Pacific ODP Site 1210. Unlike the Pacific, the Atlantic site lacks an apparent change of stratification as well as an overall dominance of thermocline dwelling planktic foraminifera species and a low abundance of surface dwelling photosymbiotic foraminifera. Within the LDE, indications for a slightly enhanced stratification of the upper water column and transient warming were indicated when surface dwelling planktic foraminifera became temporarily more abundant. The long-term evolution in planktic foraminifera with the disappearance of Praemurica at the LDE onset and a contemporaneous rise in Morozovella is similar to the trends reported from Shatsky Rise ODP Site 1210.

Aquatic biomarkers record Pleistocene environmental changes at Paleolake Olduvai, Tanzania Publication date: 15 June 2019 Source: Palaeogeography, Palaeoclimatology, Palaeoecology, Volume 524 Author(s): Devon E. Colcord, Andrea M. Shilling, Katherine H. Freeman, Jackson K. Njau, Ian G. Stanistreet, Harald Stollhofen, Kathy D. Schick, Nicholas Toth, Simon C. Brassell Abstract Several hypotheses invoke climatic variability as a driving force for hominin evolution. Thus, high-resolution records of climate and environmental variability from anthropologically significant locations can help test these hypotheses. Sedimentary sequences recovered by the Olduvai Gorge Coring Project (OGCP) help evaluate climatic and environmental changes at Olduvai Gorge, Tanzania through the analyses of various biogeochemical proxies. The stratigraphic sequence of OGCP Core 2A can be correlated with horizons associated with hominins and is chronologically constrained by distinctive dated horizons, such as the Bed I Basalt and Tuff IB. The lacustrine interval from 76.6 to 86.9 m depth is ideally suited for high-resolution analyses of biogeochemical proxies as it is rich in organic carbon (>1%TOC). The hydrogen isotopic composition of nC31 in this interval of OGCP Core 2A records the effects of precession-driven wet-dry cycles on the terrestrial environment that led to alternations between woodland and grassland ecosystems, comparable to those documented by previous investigations of outcrop analogues at Olduvai. Here, we examine stratigraphic variations in the abundance of biomarkers (C28 steradienes, C17 and C23 n-alkanes, C27 and C28 A-norsteranes, fern-8-ene, and chromans) derived from aquatic organisms (algae, cyanobacteria, sponges, macrophytes, etc.) to determine the response of Paleolake Olduvai to climate variability. In general, these aquatic biomarkers reflect the productivity of the lake environment and exhibit the same precession-driven wet-dry cycles recorded by terrestrial biogeochemical signatures. However, they also provide evidence of abrupt (<~300 yr) changes in lake level and corresponding aquatic communities superimposed on the longer-term Milankovitch cycles. Thus, evidence for climatic variability is manifested through the pacing and intensity of changes in both terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems, but the different rates of the responses on land and in the aquatic environment potentially had a complex influence on water and food resources that were important factors for hominin habitation and evolution.

High-elevation shrub-ring δ18O on the northern slope of the central Himalayas records summer (May–July) temperatures Publication date: 15 June 2019 Source: Palaeogeography, Palaeoclimatology, Palaeoecology, Volume 524 Author(s): Ru Huang, Haifeng Zhu, Eryuan Liang, Jussi Grießinger, Binod Dawadi, Achim Bräuning Abstract The potential of shrub-ring oxygen isotopes (SRO) as a paleoclimatic proxy is not well demonstrated. In this study we explored the climate signals embedded in an SRO chronology from Saga, on the northern slope of the central Himalayas by correlation analysis with climate variables and comparison with tree-ring and/or ice-core δ18O records. The Saga SRO had significant and positive correlations with May–July temperatures in both local (r = 0.43) and moisture source areas (r = 0.49) during the period 1955–2015 (CE), while no significant correlations were found with hydroclimatic variables. It is also in good agreement with two tree-ring δ18O series from the southern slope of the central Himalayas, the source of moisture to the site. The temperature signals are further verified by an ice core δ18O record from the Tanggula Mountains on the central Tibetan Plateau. However, it shows little similarity with the nearest Himalayan ice core δ18O record from Dasuopu, demonstrating temperature signals of different seasons. This study suggests that SRO could be used as an acceptable climate proxy, like tree-ring and ice-core δ18O, to broaden the spatial extent of the paleoclimatic records network. However, we should be cautious when combining different proxies with climate signals of different seasons in paleoclimate studies.

Natural assemblages of the conodont Clarkina in lowermost Triassic deep-sea black claystone from northeastern Japan, with probable soft-tissue impressions Publication date: 15 June 2019 Source: Palaeogeography, Palaeoclimatology, Palaeoecology, Volume 524 Author(s): Satoshi Takahashi, Satoshi Yamakita, Noritoshi Suzuki Abstract We report the first discovery of Lower Triassic Clarkina assemblages: four natural conodont assemblages from Lower Triassic pelagic black claystones of the North Kitakami Belt in northeastern Japan (Akkamori section). The fossils were obtained from the 2.5-m horizon level above the black claystone base, which is assigned to the end-Permian mass-extinction event. This horizon has been dated to the earliest Triassic (Griesbachian) by the occurrence of Hindeodus parvus, which is the index species for the base of the Triassic, in the same and subjacent horizons. These four fossil assemblages include a paired segminiplanate-formed P1 element, which was identified as the genus Clarkina, and have fully or partially preserved the original components of conodont elements. The most complete assemblage among them includes 15 distinctive elements, namely S0 and pairs of M, S1, S2, S3, S4, P1, and P2. It is noteworthy that these fossil assemblages preserve probable impressions of 'eyes,' which were replaced by aggregations of silicate, phosphate, and sulphide minerals. The occurrence of several sets of fossils that retain the original positioning of the conodonts' elemental apparatuses, as well as the original presence of soft tissue, may be attributed to the process by which the conodonts' bodies were transported to the deep seafloor, and by which the activity of agents of decomposition was inhibited in near-abiotic sediments under anoxic conditions in the pelagic deep sea during the earliest Triassic.

Frost record in tree rings linked to atmospheric circulation in northern Patagonia Publication date: 15 June 2019 Source: Palaeogeography, Palaeoclimatology, Palaeoecology, Volume 524 Author(s): Martín A. Hadad, Julieta Arco Molina, Fidel A. Roig Juñent, Mariano M. Amoroso, Gabriela Müller, Diego Araneo, Jacques C. Tardif Abstract Cold air incursions over subtropical South America are the precursor conditions for frost, a recognized extreme thermal weather event affecting plant growth damaging agricultural production over the whole Argentinian territory. Given that sub-freezing temperatures occurring during the active growing season may harm the cambium tissues and their daughter cells, frost injury can be recorded in annual tree rings in the form of anatomical anomalies. For this study, six forest sites of Araucaria araucana, a multi-centennial tree species, from NW Patagonia were considered. From 321 trees, 1374 frost injuries in the growth rings, named frost rings, were identified and their calendar dating allowed the development of a regional chronology of frost rings covering the period AD 1256 to AD 1993 (738 yrs.). This represents the longest record at present of extreme low thermal events for Patagonia. Frost injuries were mostly restricted to the middle section of the growth rings, suggesting the incidence of late spring frosts. Moreover, frost rings were observed mainly in the juvenile portions (<50 yrs. of age and <6 cm in stem diameter) of the tree stem, indicating that young trees display a greater sensitivity to frost events. Large-scale geographical freezing events were recorded in the years AD 1889, 1916, 1941 and 1948. The atmospheric genesis of these events was sustained by a trough at 500 hPa approaching from the west toward the continent, along with an approach of the Pacific anticyclone at 1000 hPa which invaded the southern part of South America on the day of the frost event. At the hemispheric scale, it was found that atmospheric circulation patterns related to La Niña were associated with the regional frost ring record in A. araucana. The regional frost ring record from A. araucana is proposed as a regional proxy of sub-freezing temperatures in paleoclimate reconstruction and as a background for models about the future behavior of the climate in scenarios of change.

Stratigraphic and environmental control on marine benthic community change through the early Toarcian extinction event (Iberian Range, Spain) Publication date: 15 June 2019 Source: Palaeogeography, Palaeoclimatology, Palaeoecology, Volume 524 Author(s): Silvia Danise, Marie-Emilie Clémence, Gregory D. Price, Daniel P. Murphy, Juan J. Gómez, Richard J. Twitchett Abstract In the Early Jurassic (~183 Ma ago) global warming and associated environmental changes coincided with an extinction event in the marine realm (early Toarcian extinction event). Anoxia was previously considered to have been the main cause of extinction, but extinctions also occur at localities that remained oxygenated throughout the event, suggesting that other factors, such as temperature, may have played a major role. To test this hypothesis, we integrated quantitative analyses of benthic macro-invertebrates with high-resolution geochemical proxies on the bulk rock (TOC, δ13C, δ18O) and on belemnites and brachiopod shells (δ13C, δ18O) from two sections from the Iberian Range, Spain, with no black shale deposition. The sections are orientated SE-NW along an onshore-offshore gradient deepening to the north. The dominant benthic groups, bivalves and brachiopods, show a different response to the extinction: brachiopods go through a complete species-level turnover, while many bivalve species range through the event. In the shallower section, changes in richness and evenness correlate with TOC (Total Organic Carbon), suggesting that variations in nutrient input from runoff, and the possible local onset of low-redox conditions (TOC > 4 wt%), controlled faunal diversity. In contrast, at the deeper section, community change correlates with changes in δ18O, indicating that temperature variations might have influenced faunal change. Different stratigraphic patterns of extinction occur between the two localities, with last-occurrences clustering at the maximum flooding surface in the shallower section, and at the transgressive surface in the deeper one. The observed differences between the two localities highlight the important role of local sedimentary and stratigraphic processes in controlling the shape of the geochemical and fossil record, and the need for studying multiple sections along onshore-offshore gradients in order to extrapolate regional and global patterns.

The relation of a coastal environment to early diagenetic clinoptilolite (zeolite) formation - New data from the Late Cretaceous European Basin Publication date: 15 June 2019 Source: Palaeogeography, Palaeoclimatology, Palaeoecology, Volume 524 Author(s): Agata Jurkowska, Marcin Barski, Elżbieta Worobiec Abstract Clinoptilolite, an authigenic mineral of the zeolite group, is commonly considered as a product of rhyolitic volcanic glass transformation during diagenesis of carbonate pelagic/hemipelagic sediments of Cretaceous-Paleogene age. Another, subordinate way of clinoptilolite formation that has been suggested in the literature is its precipitation during diagenetic transformation of carbonate sediments enriched with biogenic silica. The observations concerning transformation of the latter into zeolite are scarce and mostly based on Cretaceous pelagic, hemipelagic and shallow marine deposits, and post-Cretaceous sediments in which there was no volcanic material. The mechanism of diagenetic clinoptilolite formation in volcanic-free sediments, as well as the role of the depositional setting in its precipitation, is not well understood. In carbonates of the NW part of the European Basin (west side of the Łysogóry-Dobrogea Archipelago) studied here, the clinoptilolite is associated with opal-CT (from the dissolution of sponge spicules) and a detrital clays are documented for the first time in a Cretaceous coastal environment. The carbonates were deposited in a coastal environment which was under the influence of weak currents delivering sponge spicules (biogenic opal) from the offshore zone and the terrestrial input was transported by rivers from a neighboring island. The lush plant vegetation, with numerous pteridophytes and conifers, within a warm (sub-tropical or tropical) and humid climate enhanced the terrestrial weathering of clays and feldspars. This unique combination of elevated silica concentrations (from sponge spicules dissolution) and aluminum availability (from terrestrial weathering of feldspars in a subtropical climate) during the early diagenesis combined with alkalinity triggered by organic matter decomposition, enhanced the clinoptilolite formation a few centimeters below the seabed. The investigation demonstrates a novel route by which pore-fluids enriched with silica and aluminum initiate clinoptilolite formation during the very early stage of diagenesis, a few centimeters below the seafloor. The clinoptilolite distribution in Late Cretaceous silica rich deposits (with no volcanic input) of the European Basin is always associated with opal-CT, from sponge spicules and elevated terrestrial input (clays). Taking into account the distinctive Campanian-Maastrichtian sedimentation in the epicontinental European Basin, composed almost exclusively of pure pelagic carbonates, the depositional settings in which the silica and aluminum were available in pore waters was restricted to the part of the basin influenced by terrestrial input. This leads to the conclusion that clinoptilolite formation in volcanic-free sediment is an indicator of not only enhanced sponge silica availability but also the close proximity of the source area.

Palaeoceanographic reconstruction of surface-ocean changes in the southern Norwegian Sea for the last ~130,000 years based on diatoms and with comparison to foraminiferal records Publication date: 15 June 2019 Source: Palaeogeography, Palaeoclimatology, Palaeoecology, Volume 524 Author(s): Ulrike Hoff, Tine L. Rasmussen, Hanno Meyer, Nalân Koç, Jesper Hansen Abstract Fossil marine diatom assemblages in a sediment core from the central northern Faroe slope in the Norwegian Sea were used to reconstruct palaeoceanographic changes in the surface water mixed layer from the last ~130,000 years (Marine Isotope Stage (MIS) 6/5 transition to MIS 1 (including the Eemian and Holocene interglacials) and to compare the results with previously published results on planktic foraminifera representing the subsurface conditions of the thermocline. Diatom floras from MIS 5 of the Nordic seas have rarely been studied in detail before and never the entire period from pre-Eemian to present. The composition of diatom species together with maxima in absolute abundance of diatoms, indicate two periods of warmer sea surface temperatures correlating with the Eemian and Holocene interglacials, respectively. The Eemian differs from the Holocene in that the Iceland-Faroe Front never developed, suggesting the cold East Icelandic Current (originating from the East Greenland Current) running north of Iceland was reduced or more mixed with Atlantic water than during the Holocene and that the surface temperature and salinity gradients were weaker. The northern Faroe slope was in the early Weichselian of MIS 5d–5a mainly influenced by weaker inflow of Atlantic water and stronger influence of the East Icelandic Current and by seasonal sea-ice cover. During the later part of the Weichselian (MIS 4–MIS 2) cold conditions prevailed with extensive sea-ice cover except during the warmer interstadials. The diatom floras were more sensitive to climate changes than the planktic foraminifera and indicate longer periods with warm surface conditions, and increased influence of the warm Atlantic surface water from the Faroe Current in MIS 5, suggesting a shallower and much steeper thermocline during the transitional periods compared to today. The diatoms are good indicators for Atlantic water inflow and possible convection in the Nordic seas, not merely reflecting orbital variations in insolation as previously suggested.

Conodont biostratigraphy and magnetic susceptibility of Upper Devonian Chattanooga Shale, eastern United States: Evidence for episodic deposition and disconformities Publication date: 15 June 2019 Source: Palaeogeography, Palaeoclimatology, Palaeoecology, Volume 524 Author(s): D. Jeffrey Over, Emily Hauf, Jenelle Wallace, Josephine Chiarello, Jin-Si Over, Geoffrey J. Gilleaudeau, Yi Song, Thomas J. Algeo Abstract Recognition of stratigraphic hiatuses in fine-grained siliciclastic sedimentary rocks can be challenging but is feasible using high-resolution biostratigraphic and chemostratigraphic data within a regional correlation framework. In this case study of the Upper Devonian Chattanooga Shale in the Dupont GHS drillcore from the western margin of the Nashville Dome, the Upper Devonian Chattanooga Shale comprises several depositional units separated by intraformational hiatuses. These features are developed within a 13.3 m interval consisting of 4.2 m of Frasnian strata and 9.1 m of Famennian strata that unconformably overlie the Sellersburg Formation. Three Frasnian, seven Famennian, and one Tournaisian conodont biozones are recognized. The Frasnian-Famennian boundary is on a disconformity. To the northeast in the southern Illinois Basin, the New Albany Shale in the BCC drillcore consists of 35 m of Givetian and Frasnian strata and 30 m of Famennian strata that conformably overlie the Sellersburg Formation. One Givetian, four Frasnian, and three of the four lowest Famennian conodont zones are recognized. The Frasnian-Famennian boundary is conformable and constrained to within a 5 cm interval. Bulk magnetic susceptibility (MS) shows a long-term increase through most of the Frasnian. Shorter-term MS trends were observed in association with depositional pulses linked to global sea-level rises and highstand system tracts, characterized by total organic carbon (TOC) maxima — eight trends were resolved in the DGHS core, and six in the BCC. The high-frequency shifts in δMS likely represent Milankovitch-band sea-level and depositional cycles at a scale that cannot be resolved based on the condensed and irregular nature of the depositional packages. Gamma ray counts in the DGHS peak in association with the eight depositional cycles, with a TOC peak at the base of each cycle.

Terrestrial and marginal-marine record of the mid-Cretaceous Oceanic Anoxic Event 2 (OAE 2): High-resolution framework, carbon isotopes, CO2 and sea-level change Publication date: 15 June 2019 Source: Palaeogeography, Palaeoclimatology, Palaeoecology, Volume 524 Author(s): Jiří Laurin, Richard S. Barclay, Bradley B. Sageman, Robin R. Dawson, Mark Pagani, Mark Schmitz, Jeffrey Eaton, Francesca A. McInerney, Jennifer C. McElwain Abstract Oceanic Anoxic Event 2 (OAE2; c. 94.5–93.9 Ma) offers insight into the mechanisms of past climate change linked to organic productivity and carbon sequestration. It has been studied extensively, but the vast majority of data come from marine records, thus providing an incomplete view of past climate dynamics. Here we integrate new high-resolution data and published records on depositional environments, the carbon-isotope composition of bulk organic carbon (δ13Corg) and plant cuticles (δ13Ccut), and stomatal-index values, a proxy for pCO2, in well-preserved terrestrial through marginal-marine archives of the initial phase of OAE2. The study area is located on the western margin of the Western Interior Seaway (southwestern Utah). Age constraints are based on a new U-Pb bentonite age and correlation to an orbitally calibrated interval of the Bridge Creek Limestone. n-Alkane abundance suggests predominance of terrestrial contributions to bulk organic carbon for most samples. Despite similarities between carbon-isotope variations and transgressive-regressive shoreline movements, it is argued that δ13Corg and δ13Ccut are not strongly affected by local variables. A series of negative, ~2‰ carbon-isotope excursions is identified and attributed to changes in the size and isotopic value of the atmospheric CO2 reservoir. The temporal spacing of these anomalies (80–120 kyr) is consistent with changes in insolation modulated by orbital eccentricity. A systematic, phase-shifted relationship between the negative carbon-isotope excursions and transgressive increments further suggests a link between carbon-cycle perturbations and meter-scale sea-level change on the 100-kyr time scale. A conceptual model involving insolation-controlled aquifer charge/discharge and biomass burial/degradation in the monsoonal belt is proposed. The framework presented here is available to facilitate further research on the interplay of terrestrial and oceanic carbon reservoirs during OAE2.

Allergologia et Immunopathologia

Youth tobacco use in Latin America: What is the real extent of the problem? Publication date: Available online 30 March 2019 Source: Allergologia et Immunopathologia Author(s): M. Urrutia-Pereira, D. Solé, H.J. Chong Neto, H. Badellino, V. Acosta, R.L. Castro-Almarales, M.G. León, M.M. Avalos, C.C. Fernández, J.C. Sisul-Alvariza, V.J. Oliano, P.N. Rinelli Abstract Introduction Cigarette consumption among teenagers is one of the most critical health-related risk behaviors. Method Prospective study carried out in seven sites of five Latin American countries (Argentina [Cordoba, N = 958, Corrientes, N = 1013], Brazil [Curitiba, N = 650; Uruguaiana, N = 997], Cuba [Havana, N = 1004], Mexico [Veracruz, N = 991] and Paraguay [Ciudad del Este, N = 868]) with public-school adolescents (aged 12–19 years). Respondents were asked to answer the California Student Tobacco Survey. Results 6550 adolescents took part in the survey (average age: 14 years). 38.5% (N = 2517) "tried smoking" and 37.5% started smoking before the age of 12. Sixty-one percent of adolescents think that cigarettes are easily accessible; 41.7% considered that smokers have more friends; 88% indicated knowledge of the harms of smoking one to five cigarettes per day; 58.9% would smoke new cigarette types with less harmful substances; 27.8% have already used e-cigarettes; 28% have smoked hookah. Fifty-seven point five percent have been, in the past seven days, in the same room with someone who was smoking a cigarette; and 30.5% indicated that there were not any no-smoking rules inside their homes. Identifiable risk factors were (logistic regression analysis): smoking cigarettes offered by friends, smoking cigarettes with less harmful substances, knowing what a hookah is, being in the same room with a smoker in the past week. Identifiable protective factors against tobacco use were: knowing the health risks caused by smoking hookah and to have their own room. Conclusion Youth tobacco use in Latin America is a major public health concern, and tobacco control measures are highly needed.

The unpredictability of seasonal variations in serum vitamin D levels in children with asthma and/or rhinitis Publication date: Available online 30 March 2019 Source: Allergologia et Immunopathologia Author(s): S. Miceli Sopo, G. Cerchiara, G. Bersani, S. Monaco, A. Romano, A. Poscia Abstract Background Some studies have showed that seasonality is an important determinant of vitamin D (vitD) status. Objective We evaluated whether there are differences in individual trends of serum vitD level over one year in asthmatic and rhinitic children. Materials and methods Ninety-two asthmatic and rhinitic paediatric patients were followed up for one year and their serum vitD level was detected at three-month intervals, once in each season. Results We observed higher vitD levels at the end of summer and lower at the end of winter. However, the individual seasonal trend was very variable and unpredictable. If it is true that in a given season the majority of patients followed one direction (increase or decrease of serum vitD levels), nevertheless a substantial percentage behaved differently and unpredictably. For example, at the end of spring, 70% of patients showed an increase in serum vitD levels, but 30% showed a decrease. In addition, five individuals had a value ≥50 ng/ml in September and showed serum vitD levels ≥30 ng/ml throughout the year; 16 patients presented vitD value ≥40 ng/ml in September and always had ≥20 ng/ml in the other months. Conclusions The wide and unpredictable variability of the individual trend of serum vitD levels should be taken into account before deciding whether or not a drug supplementation is appropriate.

Short and extended provocation tests have similar negative predictive value in non-immediate hypersensitivity to beta-lactams in children Publication date: Available online 23 March 2019 Source: Allergologia et Immunopathologia Author(s): F.S. Regateiro, I. Rezende, N. Pinto, C. Abreu, P. Carreiro-Martins, E.R. Gomes Abstract Introduction and objectives Drug provocation tests (DPTs) are the gold-standard method to diagnose non-immediate hypersensitivity reactions (NIHSR) to beta-lactam antibiotics (BL) in children. Our aim was to compare the negative predictive value (NPV) of one-day (short) DPT versus 3–7 days (extended) DPT for the diagnosis of NIHSR to BL in paediatric age. A secondary aim was to compare confidence on drug re-exposure after short and extended negative DPTs. Methods The occurrence of HSR on drug re-exposure and drug refusal after negative diagnostic DPTs were evaluated in children/adolescents with a history of NIHSR to BL using a questionnaire performed six months to ten years after DPT. Patients were divided into two groups according to the protocol performed: short DPT vs. extended DPT. Results We enrolled 212 children and adolescents (86 females, 126 males, mean age at DPT 5.52 years, p25 = 3 years, p75 = 7.25 years): 69 tested with short DPT, and 143 with extended DPT. The NPV of both types of DPT together was 95.2%. The NPV of short DPT was 97.5% and the NPV of extended DPT was 93.8% (p = 0.419). After negative DPT, beta-lactams were refused by carers in 14.75% of the children requiring subsequent treatment, 6.98% in the short DPT group and 18.99% in the extended DPT group (p = 0.074). Conclusions In our paediatric sample, prolonging drug administration did not increase the NPV of diagnostic DPT for NIHSR to BL or reduce drug refusal. Altogether, the data here reported suggest that, however intuitive, prolonging DPT is not beneficial in the parameters analysed.

Predictive factors for progression to chronicity or recurrence after the first attack of acute urticaria in preschool-age children Publication date: Available online 21 March 2019 Source: Allergologia et Immunopathologia Author(s): Pinar Gur Cetinkaya, Ozge Soyer, Saliha Esenboga, Umit Murat Sahiner, Ozlem Teksam, Bulent Enis Sekerel Abstract Introduction and objectives Preschool-aged group is frequently affected by urticaria, and infections are the most frequently documented factors that cause acute urticaria in children. This prospective study was designed to investigate the underlying factors of acute urticaria in under five-year-old children and to describe predictive factors for progression to chronicity or recurrence after the first attack. Patients and methods Children younger than five years of age with acute urticaria were recruited between July 2015 and July 2016. Patients (n = 83) were grouped into those below and above two years of age. In order to assess the risk factors for progression to chronicity or recurrence, logistic regression analysis was performed. Results Upper respiratory tract infection was the most common detectable reason for acute urticaria (49.4%). Herpes Simplex Virus type 1 was significantly isolated in the cases with the manifestation of an acute single-episode urticaria (p = 0.042). Angioedema and food allergy were predominantly observed under two years old (p = 0.001, p = 0.006 respectively). A positive relationship was determined between the duration of urticaria and chronicity (r = 0.301, p = 0.006). The absence of atopic dermatitis (OR: 6.95, 95% CI: 1.35–35.67, p = 0.020), negative Herpes virus serology (OR: 4.25, 95% CI: 0.83–21.56, p = 0.040), and unknown etiology (OR: 3.30, 95% CI: 1.12–9.71, p = 0.030) were the independent risk factors for recurrent urticaria. Conclusions Preschool-aged children with acute urticaria should be evaluated for infections at the time of admission. Patients with unknown etiology, negative Herpes virus serology, absence of atopic dermatitis, and long lasting urticaria should be followed up for chronicity and recurrence.

Focus group parental opinions regarding treatment with topical corticosteroids on children with atopic dermatitis Publication date: March–April 2019 Source: Allergologia et Immunopathologia, Volume 47, Issue 2 Author(s): S. Veenje, H. Osinga, I. Antonescu, B. Bos, T.W. de Vries Abstract Introduction and objectives Atopic dermatitis is common among children of 0–5 years old. Treatment consists of emollients and topical corticosteroids. Due to corticophobia, however, adherence to topical corticosteroids is low. Our aim was to find factors that influence opinions about topical corticosteroids among parents of children with atopic dermatitis. Methods A qualitative focus group study in secondary care with parents of children with atopic dermatitis. Questions concerned opinions, attitude, sources of information, and the use of topical corticosteroids. Results The parents indicated that they lack knowledge about the working mechanism and side effects of topical corticosteroids. Dermatologists and paediatricians emphasise the beneficial effects, whereas other healthcare workers and lay people often express a negative attitude. Conclusions This study gives a complete overview of factors influencing adherence. Treatment with topical corticosteroids can be improved by better informing parents about the working mechanisms, the use, and how to reduce the dose. Healthcare professionals need to be aware of the consequences of their negative attitude concerning topical corticosteroids.

Association of M470V polymorphism of CFTR gene with variability of clinical expression of asthma: Case-report study Publication date: March–April 2019 Source: Allergologia et Immunopathologia, Volume 47, Issue 2 Author(s): Imen Wahabi, Sondess Hadj Fredj, Malek Nefzi, Rym Dabboubi, Hajer Siala, Fatma Khalsi, Khedija Bousetta, Taieb Messaoud Abstract Introduction and Objectives Asthma is a complex genetic disorder. Several genes have been found associated with asthma. The cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene is one of them. The aim of this study was to perform a comparative analysis of the genotype and allele frequency distributions of the biallelic marker M470V within the CFTR gene on mutant and wide chromosomes. Patients and methods The molecular approach consists in the genotyping of the M470V marker by the PCR-RFLP technique in 105 asthmatic patients, aged between four months and 17 years, and 105 healthy subjects. Results We found a significant difference in the genotype frequencies between the two studied groups (χ2 = 9.855, P = 0.007). The V/V genotype was over represented in the asthmatic group as compared to the controls (32.38% vs. 16.19%). Whereas, the M/V genotype is more frequent in healthy subjects (40.95% vs. 28.71%). We also noted a significant difference in allelic distribution of M470V with associated diseases (χ2 = 9.610, P = 0.022). Conclusions The present study is the first report on the distribution of the M470V polymorphism in asthmatic Tunisian patients. We noticed that the M470V variant could modulate the clinical phenotype of asthmatic patients. This preliminary study will establish the molecular basis of this disease in Tunisia.

Phenotyping and long-term follow up of patients with hyper IgE syndrome Publication date: March–April 2019 Source: Allergologia et Immunopathologia, Volume 47, Issue 2 Author(s): S. Alyasin, H. Esmaeilzadeh, N. Ebrahimi, S.H. Nabavizadeh, S. Kashef, E. Esmaeilzadeh, M. Babaei, R. Amin Abstract Introduction and objectives Long-term follow up of patients with hyper IgE syndrome (HIES), as a primary immunodeficiency disorder, has been poorly investigated. This study describes common clinical and immunological features of patients with HIES in the last 10 years in Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran. Methods and patients In this cross-sectional study, the symptoms and medical records of 18 patients, who were diagnosed with HIES, were observed. Genetic and immunologic study was also performed. Results Eighteen patients with the mean age of 13 years old were investigated. Ten patients were detected to have mutations in DOCK8 gene and autosomal recessive HIES (AR-HIES); and four patients were found with STAT3mutation and autosomal dominant HIES (AD-HIES). So, 14 patients with known genetic results were considered for further data analysis. Food allergy, eczema, viral and skin infections were the major complications of AR-HIES patients. The major clinical complications of AD-HIES patients were pneumonia, skin infections and eczema. Food allergy and viral infection were significantly higher in DOCK8 deficient patients. The most common causes of hospitalization in both AR-HIES and AD-HIES patients were pneumonia, skin infections and sepsis. The most common cause of death was found to be sepsis. Conclusions AD-HIES and AR-HIES cannot be differentiated only based on the clinical presentations. Genetic features are also necessary for better diagnosis. This study, summarizing the clinical, immunological and genetic information of the patients with AD-HIES and AR-HIES, may open a way for better diagnosis and management of HIES.

Microdeletion 22q11.2 syndrome: Does thymus incidental surgical resection affect its immunological profile? Publication date: March–April 2019 Source: Allergologia et Immunopathologia, Volume 47, Issue 2 Author(s): E.M. Navarrete-Rodríguez, B.E. Del-Rio-Navarro, D.E. García-Fajardo, G.J. Baay-Guzmán, S.E. Espinosa-Padilla, E.A. Medina-Torres, N.I. Moguel-Molina, M. Sánchez-Curiel-Loyo, N. Nájera-Martínez, J. Navarro-Munguía, N. Reyes-Noriega, N.A. Balderrábano-Saucedo, R. Sánchez-Urbina, C. García Delgado, J.J.L. Sienra-Monge, V.F. Morán-Barroso Abstract Background The del22q11 syndrome patients present immunological abnormalities associated to thymus alterations. Up to 75% of them present cardiopathies and thymus is frequently removed during surgery. The thymectomy per se has a deleterious effect concerning lymphocyte subpopulations, and T cell function. When compared to healthy controls, these patients have higher infections propensity of variable severity. The factors behind these variations are unknown. We compared immunological profiles of del22q11.2 Syndrome patients with and without thymectomy to establish its effect in the immune profile. Methods Forty-six del22q11.2 syndrome patients from 1 to 16 years old, 19 of them with partial or total thymectomy were included. Heart disease type, heart surgery, infections events and thymus resection were identified. Immunoglobulin levels, flow cytometry for lymphocytes subpopulations and TREC levels were determined, and statistical analyses were performed. Results The thymectomy group had a lower lymphocyte index, both regarding total cell count and when comparing age-adjusted Z scores. Also, CD3+, CD4+ and CD8+ lower levels were observed in this group, the lowest count in those patients who had undergone thymus resection during the first year of life. Their TREC level median was 23.6/μL vs 16.1 μL in the non-thymus group (p = 0.22). No differences were identified regarding immunoglobulin levels or infection events frequencies over the previous year. Conclusion Patients with del22q11.2 syndrome subjected to thymus resection present lower lymphocyte and TREC indexes when compared to patients without thymectomy. This situation may be influenced by the age at the surgery and the time elapsed since the procedure.

Successful oral desensitization in children with cow's milk anaphylaxis: Clinical and laboratory evaluation up to nine-years follow-up Publication date: March–April 2019 Source: Allergologia et Immunopathologia, Volume 47, Issue 2 Author(s): M. Alves-Correia, Â. Gaspar, L.-M. Borrego, J. Azevedo, C. Martins, M. Morais-Almeida Abstract Introduction Cow's milk protein allergy (CMPA) is the most common food allergy in children worldwide. Some children have severe and persistent CMPA, with near-fatal reactions after exposure to trace amounts of cow's milk-proteins (CMP). Strict avoidance diet is difficult, negatively affects quality of life and represents a conservative approach. Therefore, different therapeutic strategies are necessary. Objective We aimed to assess long-term efficacy and safety of oral immunotherapy (OIT) in children with severe and long-lasting IgE-mediated CMPA. Materials and methods The authors present four case reports of patients with CMPA who underwent CMP-OIT, that have been under long-term follow-up up to nine years. We provide information about the clinical and laboratory evaluation. Skin prick tests (SPT), specific IgE and IgG4 were performed before, during, and after OIT. Immune profile after OIT was assessed by flow cytometry (lymphocyte subsets, regulatory T and B cells). Results The success rate was 100%, and all patients currently have a free diet with minimal diary ingestion of 200 mL CMP or equivalent. Specific IgE levels and SPT to CMP have progressively decreased, and specific IgG4 levels have increased. CD4+CD25+CD127−/dim regulatory T cells were increased after OIT. Conclusions OIT ensured a clinical tolerance state after up to nine years, confirmed by both clinical and immune profile, allowing a diet without restrictions, with high satisfaction from patients and caregivers. We emphasize that OIT should be performed only by allergy experts in the hospital setting, and that only motivated families should be enrolled, since it is essential to ensure CMP daily intake at home.

Anaphylaxis to beta-lactam antibiotics at pediatric age: Six-year survey Publication date: March–April 2019 Source: Allergologia et Immunopathologia, Volume 47, Issue 2 Author(s): J. Azevedo, Â. Gaspar, I. Mota, F. Benito-Garcia, M. Alves-Correia, M. Chambel, M. Morais-Almeida Abstract Introduction Beta-lactams are the most frequently used antibiotics in pediatric age. Anaphylactic reactions may occur and need to be properly studied, but studies in children are scarce. Objective Characterization of case reports of anaphylaxis in children referred to an allergy department with suspected beta-lactams hypersensitivity. Materials and methods Retrospective analysis of all children referred to our Drug Allergy Center with suspected beta-lactams hypersensitivity between January 2011 and December 2016. Description of the drug allergy work-up performed studied according to standardized diagnostic procedures of ENDA/EAACI, including specific-IgE assay, skin prick and intradermal tests and diagnostic/alternative drug challenge tests. Results 146 children with suspected beta-lactams hypersensitivity were studied, and in 21 (14.4%) the diagnosis was confirmed. In all of them, except for three children, an alternative beta-lactam was found. In seven children (33.3% of those with confirmed beta-lactams hypersensitivity) anaphylaxis was confirmed, and all of them described reactions with cutaneous and respiratory or gastrointestinal involvement. The culprit drug was amoxicillin in six and flucloxacillin in one. In this sample, we also performed oral challenge with cefuroxime, being negative in all cases. Almost all cases of confirmed anaphylaxis (six from seven cases) were IgE mediated, with positive skin tests despite negative serum specific-IgE. Conclusions Allergic reactions to beta-lactams, although rare in children, require a detailed clinical history and a specialized drug allergy work-up to allow a correct diagnosis as well as to avoid the possibility of a potential life-threatening reaction and provide alternative drugs.

Gene Regulatory Mechanisms

The chromatin remodeling protein BRM regulates the transcription of tight junction proteins: Implication in breast cancer metastasis Publication date: May 2019 Source: Biochimica et Biophysica Acta (BBA) - Gene Regulatory Mechanisms, Volume 1862, Issue 5 Author(s): Yuyu Yang, Li Liu, Mingming Fang, Hui Bai, Yong Xu Abstract Claudins are a group of cell tight junction proteins that play versatile roles in cancer biology. Recent studies have correlated down-regulation of Claudins with augmented breast cancer malignancy and poor prognosis. The mechanism underlying repression of Claudin transcription in breast cancer cells is not well understood. Here we report that expression levels of Brahma (BRM) were down-regulated in triple negative breast cancer cells (MDA-231) compared to the less malignant MCF-7 cells and in high-grade human breast cancer specimens compared to low-grade ones. TGF-β treatment in MCF-7 cells repressed BRM transcription likely through targeting C/EBPβ. BRM over-expression suppressed whereas BRM knockdown promoted TGF-β induced migration and invasion of MCF-7 cells. BRM down-regulation was accompanied by the loss of a panel of Claudins in breast cancer cells. BRM directly bound to the promoter region of Claudin genes via interacting with Sp1 and activated transcription by modulating histone modifications. Together, our data have identified a novel epigenetic pathway that links Claudin transcription to breast cancer metastasis.

Inhibition of lysine-specific demethylase LSD1 induces senescence in Glioblastoma cells through a HIF-1α-dependent pathway Publication date: May 2019 Source: Biochimica et Biophysica Acta (BBA) - Gene Regulatory Mechanisms, Volume 1862, Issue 5 Author(s): Carmen D. Saccà, Francesca Gorini, Susanna Ambrosio, Stefano Amente, Deriggio Faicchia, Giuseppe Matarese, Luigi Lania, Barbara Majello Abstract Senescence is a stress-responsive cellular program that leads to cell cycle arrest. In cancer cells, senescence has profound implications for tumor aggressiveness and clinical outcome, but the molecular events that provoke cancer cells to undergo senescence remain unclear. Herein, we provide evidence that the histone demethylase LSD1/KDM1A supports the growth of Glioblastoma tumor cells and its inhibition triggers senescence response. LSD1 is a histone modifier that participates in key aspects of gene transcription as well as in the regulation of methylation dynamics of non-histone proteins. We found that down-regulation of LSD1 inhibits Glioblastoma cell growth, impairs mTOR pathway and cell migration and induces senescence. At mechanistic level, we found that LSD1 regulates HIF-1α protein stability. Pharmacological inhibition or siRNA-mediated silencing of LSD1 expression effectively reduces HIF-1α protein levels, which suffices for the induction of senescence. Our findings elucidate a mechanism whereby LSD1 controls senescence in Glioblastoma tumor cells through the regulation of HIF-1α, and we propose the novel defined LSD1/HIF-1α axis as a new target for the therapy of Glioblastoma tumors.

Zbtb7c is a critical gluconeogenic transcription factor that induces glucose-6-phosphatase and phosphoenylpyruvate carboxykinase 1 genes expression during mice fasting Publication date: Available online 5 April 2019 Source: Biochimica et Biophysica Acta (BBA) - Gene Regulatory Mechanisms Author(s): Won-Il Choi, Jae-Hyeon Yoon, Ji-Yang Song, Bu-Nam Jeon, Joo-Man Park, Dong-In Koh, Yong-ho Ahn, Kyung-Sup Kim, In-Kyu Lee, Man-Wook Hur Abstract Gluconeogenesis is essential for blood glucose homeostasis during fasting and is regulated by various enzymes, which are encoded by gluconeogenic genes. Those genes are controlled by various transcription factors. Zinc finger and BTB domain–containing 7c (Zbtb7c, also called Kr-pok) is a BTB-POZ family transcription factor with proto-oncogenic activity. Previous findings have indicated that Zbtb7c is involved in the regulation of fatty acid biosynthesis, suggesting an involvement also in primary metabolism. We found here that fasting induced Zbtb7c expression in the mouse liver and in primary liver hepatocytes. We also observed that Zbtb7c-knockout mice have decreased blood glucose levels, so we investigated whether Zbtb7c plays a role in gluconeogenesis. Indeed, differential gene expression analysis of Zbtb7c-knockout versus wild type mouse livers showed downregulated transcription of gluconeogenic genes encoding the glucose 6-phosphatase catalytic subunit (G6pc) and phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase 1 (Pck1), while Zbtb7c expression upregulated these two genes, under fasting conditions. Mechanistically, we found that when complexed with histone deacetylase 3 (Hdac3), Zbtb7c binds insulin response elements (IREs) within the G6pc and Pck1 promoters. Moreover, complexed Zbtb7c deacetylated forkhead box O1 (Foxo1), thereby increasing Foxo1 binding to the G6pc and Pck1 IREs, resulting in their transcriptional activation. These results demonstrate Zbtb7c to be a crucial metabolic regulator of blood glucose homeostasis, during mammalian fasting.

IsomiRs: Expanding the miRNA repression toolbox beyond the seed Publication date: Available online 4 April 2019 Source: Biochimica et Biophysica Acta (BBA) - Gene Regulatory Mechanisms Author(s): Xavier Bofill-De Ros, Acong Yang, Shuo Gu Abstract MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of small non-coding RNAs that play increasingly appreciated roles in gene regulation. In animals, miRNAs silence gene expression by binding to partially complementary sequences within target mRNAs. It is well-established that miRNAs recognize canonical target sites by base-pairing in the 5′region. However, the development of biochemical methods has identified many novel, non-canonical target sites, suggesting additional modes of miRNA-target association. Here, we review the current knowledge of miRNA-target recognition and how new evidence supports or challenges existing models. We also review the process by which microRNA isoforms achieve functional diversification via modulation of target recognition.

Adaptor proteins in long noncoding RNA biology Publication date: Available online 2 April 2019 Source: Biochimica et Biophysica Acta (BBA) - Gene Regulatory Mechanisms Author(s): Emily Dangelmaier, Ashish Lal Abstract Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are a heterogeneous class of noncoding RNAs that have gained increasing attention due to their vital roles in the regulation of diverse cellular processes. Because lncRNAs are generally expressed at low levels, are poorly conserved, and can act via diverse mechanisms, investigating the molecular mechanisms by which lncRNAs act is challenging. Similar to mRNAs, lncRNAs bind to RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) and in some cases, have been shown to regulate the activity of the RBP they bind to. Furthermore, recent studies have shown that some lncRNAs directly bind to a specific RBP that, in turn, forms a complex with other proteins that mediate the effects of the lncRNA. We termed such RBPs as adaptor proteins because they function as adaptors to recruit other proteins that indirectly associate with the lncRNA. Here, we discuss the emerging roles of adaptor proteins in lncRNA function and propose mechanistic scenarios and strategies to identify adaptor proteins that could play vital roles in the biology of a lncRNA. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: ncRNA in control of gene expression edited by Kotb Abdelmohsen.

A non-autonomous role of MKL1 in the activation of hepatic stellate cells Publication date: Available online 2 April 2019 Source: Biochimica et Biophysica Acta (BBA) - Gene Regulatory Mechanisms Author(s): Zilong Li, Ping Li, Yunjie Lu, Dongli Sun, Xiaoying Zhang, Yong Xu Abstract Although hepatic stellate cells (HSC) represent the major source of fibrogenesis in the liver under various pathological conditions, other cell types including hepatic parenchymal cells (hepatocytes) also contribute to HSC activation and hence liver fibrosis. The underlying mechanism, however, is poorly defined. Here we report that hepatocytes exposed to high concentrations of glucose (HG) emit a pro-fibrogenic cue as evidenced by the observation that primary HSCs cultured in conditioned media (CM) collected from hepatocytes exposed to HG up-regulated the production of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins compared to CM collected from hepatocytes exposed to low glucose. We further identified the pro-fibrogenic cue from hepatocytes to be connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) because either depletion of endogenous CTGF in hepatocytes with siRNA or the addition of a CTGF-specific neutralizing antibody to the CM blunted the pro-fibrogenic effect elicit by HG treatment. Of interest, we discovered that genetic ablation or pharmaceutical inhibition of the transcriptional modulator MKL1 in hepatocytes also abrogated the HG-induced pro-fibrogenic effects. Mechanistically, MKL1 interacted with AP-1 and SMAD3 to trans-activate CTGF in response to HG treatment. In conclusion, our data suggest that MKL1 contribute to HSC activation in a non-autonomous fashion by promoting CTGF transcription in hepatocytes.

Dicer1 is required for pigment cell and craniofacial development in zebrafish Publication date: April 2019 Source: Biochimica et Biophysica Acta (BBA) - Gene Regulatory Mechanisms, Volume 1862, Issue 4 Author(s): Andrea M.J. Weiner, Nadia L. Scampoli, Tomás J. Steeman, Christopher M. Dooley, Elisabeth M. Busch-Nentwich, Robert N. Kelsh, Nora B. Calcaterra Abstract The multidomain RNase III endoribonuclease DICER is required for the generation of most functional microRNAs (miRNAs). Loss of Dicer affects developmental processes at different levels. Here, we characterized the zebrafish Dicer1 mutant, dicer1sa9205, which has a single point mutation induced by N-ethyl-N-nitrosourea mutagenesis. Heterozygous dicer1sa9205 developed normally, being phenotypically indistinguishable from wild-type siblings. Homozygous dicer1sa9205 mutants display smaller eyes, abnormal craniofacial development and aberrant pigmentation. Reduced numbers of both iridophores and melanocytes were observed in the head and ventral trunk of dicer1sa9205 homozygotes; the effect on melanocytes was stronger and detectable earlier in development. The expression of microphthalmia-associated transcription factor a (mitfa), the master gene for melanocytes differentiation, was enhanced in dicer1-depleted fish. Similarly, the expression of SRY-box containing gene 10 (sox10), required for mitfa activation, was higher in mutants than in wild types. In silico and in vivoanalyses of either sox10 or mitfa 3'UTRs revealed conserved potential miRNA binding sites likely involved in the post-transcriptional regulation of both genes. Based on these findings, we propose that dicer1 participates in the gene regulatory network governing zebrafish melanocyte differentiation by controlling the expression of mitfa and sox10.

Dose dependent gene expression is dynamically modulated by the history, physiology and age of yeast cells Publication date: April 2019 Source: Biochimica et Biophysica Acta (BBA) - Gene Regulatory Mechanisms, Volume 1862, Issue 4 Author(s): Amparo Pascual-Ahuir, Eva González-Cantó, Pauline Juyoux, Julia Pable, Daniel Poveda-Huertes, Sandra Saiz-Balbastre, Sonia Squeo, Alvaro Ureña-Marco, Elena Vanacloig-Pedros, Laura Zaragoza-Infante, Markus Proft Abstract Cells respond to external stimuli with transient gene expression changes in order to adapt to environmental alterations. However, the dose response profile of gene induction upon a given stress depends on many intrinsic and extrinsic factors. Here we show that the accurate quantification of dose dependent gene expression by live cell luciferase reporters reveals fundamental insights into stress signaling. We make the following discoveries applying this non-invasive reporter technology. (1) Signal transduction sensitivities can be compared and we apply this here to salt, oxidative and xenobiotic stress responsive transcription factors. (2) Stress signaling depends on where and how the damage is generated within the cell. Specifically we show that two ROS-generating agents, menadione and hydrogen peroxide, differ in their dependence on mitochondrial respiration. (3) Stress signaling is conditioned by the cells history. We demonstrate here that positive memory or an acquired resistance towards oxidative stress is induced dependent on the nature of the previous stress experience. (4) The metabolic state of the cell impinges on the sensitivity of stress signaling. This is shown here for the shift towards higher stress doses of the response profile for yeast cells moved from complex to synthetic medium. (5) The age of the cell conditions its transcriptional response capacity, which is demonstrated by the changes of the dose response to oxidative stress during both replicative and chronological aging. We conclude that capturing dose dependent gene expression in real time will be of invaluable help to understand stress signaling and its dynamic modulation.

The nuclear receptors PXR and LXR are regulators of the scaffold protein PDZK1 Publication date: April 2019 Source: Biochimica et Biophysica Acta (BBA) - Gene Regulatory Mechanisms, Volume 1862, Issue 4 Author(s): Celio Ferreira, Ramona Meyer, Henriette E. Meyer zu Schwabedissen Abstract PDZK1 (NHERF3) interacts with membrane proteins whereby modulating their spatial arrangement, membrane stability, and function. One of the membrane proteins shown to be stabilized by interaction with PDZK1 is the HDL-receptor SR-BI (SCARB1). Testing the influence of TO 901317, a known activator of liver X receptor alpha (LXRα, NR1H3) which is a central regulator of the lipid homeostasis, Grefhorst et al. reported in 2012 that administration of TO 901317 did not affect PDZK1 expression and reduced the amount of SR-BI protein in mouse liver. Considering that TO 901317 also activates the xenosensor pregnane X receptor (PXR, NR1I2), it was aim of this study to further investigate the influence of LXRα and PXR activation on transcription of PDZK1. First, we tested the transactivation of PDZK1 by LXRα or PXR in cell-based reporter gene assays comparing the effect of prototypical ligands to that of TO 901317. Ligand mediated activation of LXRα increased, while that of PXR lowered luciferase activity. Further, we located the most likely binding site for LXRα and PXR on the PDZK1 promoter between −85 bp and −54 bp. The transcriptional regulation by LXRα was further supported showing enhanced mRNA expression of PDZK1 in HepG2 cells treated with the selective LXRα-agonist GW3965, while treatment with TO 901317 reduced the protein amount of PDZK1. Taken together, we provide evidence that both LXRα and PXR are transcriptional regulators of PDZK1 supporting the previous notion that the scaffold protein is part of cholesterol homeostasis and drug metabolism.

Editorial Board Publication date: April 2019 Source: Biochimica et Biophysica Acta (BBA) - Gene Regulatory Mechanisms, Volume 1862, Issue 4 Author(s):

Logopedia, Foniatría ,Audiología

Avances en la rehabilitación auditiva con células madre. Revisión Publication date: Available online 5 April 2019 Source: Revista de Logopedia, Foniatría y Audiología Author(s): Humberto Yévenes Briones, Marusela Picó Berenguer, Pablo Oñate Parra Resumen Según la Organización Mundial de la Salud en el mundo hay 360 millones de personas que sufren algún tipo de pérdida auditiva discapacitante. Actualmente los tratamientos más usados para la rehabilitación de hipoacusias neurosensoriales son los aparatos electrónicos como audífonos o dispositivos implantables, tanto cocleares como osteointegrados. La presente revisión resume los avances que se han producido en la rehabilitación auditiva con células madre, y cómo éstas contribuyen en la generación de nuevas células ciliadas y neuronas auditivas. También se revisa el uso combinado con implantes cocleares, y cómo este último ayuda a la creación de redes entre las células ciliadas y las neuronas auditivas. Si bien queda un largo camino por recorrer y poder resolver algunos problemas como la implantación en la cóclea o ganglio espiral de las células o neuronas creadas exógenamente, este tipo de terapia abre una solución para una rehabilitación auditiva que en muchos casos supondría la solución definitiva para la discapacidad auditiva. Abstract There are 360 million people who suffers some kind of Hearing loss disability according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Currently, the electronic devices such as hearing aids or implantable devices both cochlear and osseointegrated, are the most useful treatments to hearing loss rehabilitation. The following review summarized both the advances that have occurred in the auditory rehabilitation with stem cells, and how they have helped in the generation of new hair cells and auditory neurons. Besides, both the combined use with cochlear implants and how it helps to create networks between the hair cells and the auditory neuron was reviewed. Although, there is a long way to go and solving some problems, such as implantation in the wall or the spiral ganglion of cells or neurons created exogenously, this kind of therapy opens a solution for a rehabilitation which would be the solution definitive for hearing impairment.

Causas y efectos del daño cerebral adquirido traumático y no traumático en una cohorte de 736 pacientes Publication date: Available online 4 April 2019 Source: Revista de Logopedia, Foniatría y Audiología Author(s): María Guadalupe Leyva-Cárdenas, Emilio Arch-Tirado, Paulina C. Murphy-Ruíz, S. Gabriela Juárez-García, M. Patricia Muñiz-Ríos, Ana Luisa Lino-González Resumen Antecedentes El daño cerebral adquirido es un importante problema de salud pública y la principal causa de muerte y discapacidad, la cual abarca no solo aspectos motrices, sino también del lenguaje, habla, memoria y/o habilidades cognitivas que afectan de manera sustancial la vida de quienes la padecen. Objetivo Analizar y describir causas y efectos del daño cerebral adquirido traumático y no traumático. Material y métodos Estudio analítico transversal retrospectivo; se seleccionaron expedientes de pacientes (2011 a 2015) conformando un total de 736. Se calcularon medias, desviaciones estándar, porcentajes y frecuencias; con la finalidad de evaluar si existía diferencia significativa entre variables se calculó χ2 y dependencia estadística mediante análisis de probabilidad condicional. Resultados El daño cerebral de origen traumático se presentó en 169 (22.9%) pacientes (138 hombres y 31 mujeres). Las causas principales fueron accidentes automovilísticos (27.8%) y caídas (24.8%); 567 (77%) pacientes (286 hombres, 281 mujeres) presentaron daño por etiología no traumática, principalmente por evento vascular isquémico (377 pacientes, 51.22%). Los diagnósticos establecidos con mayor frecuencia fueron los trastornos del lenguaje y de memoria. Conclusiones La enfermedad vascular cerebral se está convirtiendo en un problema de salud, por lo que es necesario generar campañas preventivas e informativas sobre la adecuada atención y tratamiento con la finalidad de disminuir la incidencia y la gravedad de la discapacidad de los pacientes afectados. Abstract Background Acquired brain damage is a major public health problem and the main cause of death and disability, which encompasses not only motor aspects, but also language, speech, memory and/or cognitive abilities that substantially affect the lives of those suffering from them. Objective To analyze and describe causes and effects of traumatic and non-traumatic acquired brain damage. Materials and methods This is a retrospective cross-sectional analytical review. Patient files were selected (2011 to 2015), making a total of 736. Means, standard deviations, percentages and frequencies were calculated; with the purpose of evaluating if there was a significant difference between variables was calculated and statistical dependence through conditional probability analysis. Results Acquired brain injury of traumatic origin occurred in 169 (22.9%) patients (138 men and 31 women). The main causes were car accidents (27.8%) and falls (24.8%); 567 (77%) patients (286 men and 281 women) presented damage due to non-traumatic etiology, mainly due to ischemic vascular event (377 patients, 51.22%). The most commonly established diagnoses were language and memory disorders. Conclusions Cerebral vascular disease is becoming a health problem, so it is necessary to create preventive and informative campaigns about the adequate care and treatment in order to reduce the incidence and severity of the disability of affected patients.

Secuelas del daño cerebral adquirido, estudio sobre las necesidades terapéuticas Publication date: Available online 4 April 2019 Source: Revista de Logopedia, Foniatría y Audiología Author(s): Patricia Murciego Rubio, Natividad García Atarés Resumen Objetivos Conocer la etiología más común del daño cerebral adquirido, calcular el porcentaje de pacientes que necesitan neurorrehabilitación y examinar la sintomatología relacionada con el área de logopedia, permitiendo justificar la importancia de este profesional en el ámbito de la rehabilitación neurológica. Pacientes y método En este estudio se realizó un análisis de los pacientes con alteraciones neurológicas ingresados en un hospital de media estancia, entre el 1 de enero de 2011 y el 1 de enero del 2017. Todos los pacientes eran mayores de 18 años, de ambos sexos, con daño cerebral adquirido. La muestra fue obtenida a través del software de gestión asistencial del Centro Hospitalario Benito Menni de Valladolid, seleccionando las unidades dedicadas a la rehabilitación: convalecencia y daño cerebral, leyendo cada historia para conocer las secuelas y la rehabilitación recibida. Resultados Del total de pacientes ingresados en este periodo 480 presentaban alteraciones neurológicas, de los cuales 39 fallecieron antes de recibir rehabilitación por su grave estado, y 10 empeoraron debiendo cesar las terapias. Finalmente, un 89.7% recibieron rehabilitación, presentando trastornos motores relacionados con los miembros superiores e inferiores en un 90.8%, un 39.8% problemas deglutorios y las alteraciones de la comunicación en un 39.6% de la muestra. La etiología del problema neurológico más común, con un 56.5%, fue el ictus isquémico, seguido del hemorrágico en un 16.9% de los casos y de los traumatismos craneoencefálicos en un 15.6%. Conclusión La etiología más relevante dentro de un centro de media estancia es el ictus isquémico. Las secuelas más significativas son los trastornos motores, seguidos de los problemas deglutorios y de comunicación. El logopeda es un profesional destacado en la rehabilitación del paciente neurológico, debido a los porcentajes y relevancia de los síntomas tratados desde esta área. Es necesario establecer un método de evaluación de los pacientes con daño cerebral, fiable, estandarizado y validado. Abstract Objectives To know the most common etiology of acquired brain damage, calculate the percentage of patients who need neurorehabilitation and examine the symptoms related to the area of speech therapy allowing to justify the importance of this professional in the field of neurological rehabilitation. Patients and method In this study, an analysis of the patients with neurological alterations admitted to a half-stay hospital was carried out between January 1, 2011 and January 1, 2017. All patients were over 18 years old, of both sexes, with acquired brain damage. The sample was obtained through the care management software of the Centro Hospitalario Benito Menni in Valladolid, selecting the units active in rehabilitation: convalescence and brain damage, reading each story to know the sequelae and the rehabilitation received. Results Of the total number of patients admitted in this period, 480 presented neurological alterations, of which 39 patients died before receiving rehabilitation due to their serious condition, and 10 patients worsened due to the cessation of therapies. Finally, 89.7% received rehabilitation, presenting motor disorders related to the upper and lower limbs in 90.8%, 39.8% swallowing problems and communication alterations in 39.6% of the sample. The etiology of the most common neurological problem with 56.5% was ischemic stroke, followed by hemorrhagic in 16.9% of the cases and traumatic brain injuries in 15.6%. Conclusion Ischemic stroke is the most relevant etiology within a half-stay center. The most significant sequelae are motor disorders, followed by swallowing and communication problems. The speech therapist is a prominent professional in the rehabilitation of the neurological patient, due to the percentages and relevance of the symptoms treated in this area. It is necessary to establish a method of evaluating patients with brain damage, reliable, standardized and validated.

Peculiaridades anatómicas que influyen en la voz erigmofónica Publication date: Available online 4 April 2019 Source: Revista de Logopedia, Foniatría y Audiología Author(s): María José Fernández Gutiérrez, Andrea Díaz Luiña, Paloma Sirgo Rodríguez, Liliana Santamarina Rabanal, César Antonio Álvarez Marcos Resumen La laringectomía total ocasiona un cambio morfológico trascendente en el aparato vocal, que altera totalmente el mecanismo fisiológico de la voz. Objetivo Describir aspectos claves de la morfología del aparato vocal de las personas que utilizan la voz erigmofónica para su comunicación. Material y método Estudio prospectivo de 15 pacientes laringectomizados que utilizan voz erigmofónica en los que se aplicaron los test VHI-30, CAPE-V y una exploración clínica y endoscópica, destacando los aspectos morfológicos que podrían influir en la voz. Resultados El VHI-30 revela que perciben su voz como limitación leve y moderada. El CAPE-V indica una afectación media y grave. El VHI-30 (grados leve y moderado) se relaciona significativamente con la severidad global del CAPE-V. En la exploración clínica de la cavidad oral y el traqueostoma no se observan alteraciones que se relacionen con la valoración del CAPE-V. La exploración endoscópica muestra tendencias entre volúmenes y áreas de la cavidad faríngea y del esófago con el CAPE-V, pero sin llegar a valores significativos. Las formas de botón y diafragma del segmento faringoesofágico exhiben una tendencia similar. Conclusiones La calidad de la voz erigmofónica percibida por el explorador dependería, en cierta medida, de las características anatómicas del nuevo aparato vocal del laringectomizado. Abstract Total laryngectomy causes a morphological change in the vocal apparatus, which totally alters the physiological mechanism of the voice. Aim The objective of this article is to describe key aspects of the vocal apparatus morphology of patients who use the esophageal voice to communicate. Material and method Prospective study of 15 patients with esophageal voice in which the VHI-30, CAPE-V and a clinical and endoscopic exploration were performed, highlighting the morphological aspects that could influence the voice. Results The VHI-30 reveals that they perceive their voice as a mild and moderate limitation. The CAPE-V indicates a medium and severe affectation. Both tests are significantly related in the mild and severe grades of VHI with the global severity of CAPE-V. The clinical exploration of the oral cavity and tracheostoma doesn't show that its variables present a trend with CAPE-V. Endoscopic exploration shows trends in the relationship between volumes and areas of the pharyngeal cavity and esophagus with the CAPE-V, but without reaching significant values. The button and diaphragm shapes of the pharyngoesophageal segment exhibit the same tendency. Conclusions The variables studied indicate that the quality of the esophageal voice would depend, to some extent, on the anatomical characteristics of the new laryngectomized vocal apparatus.

Logopedia en entornos bilingües desde un enfoque naturalista Publication date: Available online 16 February 2019 Source: Revista de Logopedia, Foniatría y Audiología Author(s): Silvia Nieva, Lidia Rodríguez, Roussel Solenn Resumen En los últimos años, en los que la logopedia ha evolucionado desde paradigmas más tradicionales a enfoques socioconstructivistas, se hace especialmente necesaria una revisión de la intervención logopédica con niños bilingües. El principal reto para la intervención logopédica en población bilingüe consiste en ofrecer una respuesta situada y significativa, tanto para el niño como para su familia en los diferentes entornos en los que se produce la interacción. Una primera cuestión que se plantea es cómo realizar la evaluación logopédica de una población bilingüe para determinar las competencias generales en las dos lenguas que utiliza. La literatura muestra que las pruebas estandarizadas diseñadas para niños monolingües no son totalmente válidas para poblaciones bilingües. Se recomienda, por tanto, una evaluación holística de las competencias de cada lengua realizada en un entorno natural de uso comunicativo. Otra cuestión importante es la elección adecuada de la lengua en la que se interviene. La tendencia actual en la intervención es recomendar un enfoque bilingüe, a pesar de que algunos profesionales siguen proponiendo y realizando abordajes monolingües, bien por no dominar la otra lengua, bien por no conocer en profundidad la evidencia actualizada. Este trabajo pretende, precisamente, facilitar al logopeda un acercamiento a los últimos estudios sobre intervención naturalista con entornos bilingües y la intervención centrada en la persona y su familia. Los resultados sugieren que la intervención centrada en la familia es un enfoque que permite empoderar a las familias para apoyar de manera significativa el desarrollo comunicativo de sus hijos. Abstract Speech and Language Therapy (SLT) has evolved from a traditional to a socio-constructivist approach over the last years. Consequently, it is now necessary to review the intervention with bilingual children. The main challenge for the SLT working with bilingual population is to offer a situated and meaningful response for both the children and their families in the different environments where interaction takes place. The first question to be solved is how to develop an evaluation of a bilingual population in order to determine the general competences in both languages. Literature shows that standardised tests designed for monolingual children are not valid for bilingual population. Therefore, it is recommended to use a holistic evaluation of each languagés competence carried out in a natural environment of communicative use. Another important issue is the choice of the language in which intervention is going to be developed. The current trend in SLT intervention is to recommend a bilingual approach; however, some professionals are still using monolingual approaches. There are several reasons for this approach: professionals may not have sufficient abilities in the other language or may not have read the latest publications in the field. This work tries, precisely, to facilitate the access to the latest works about naturalistic intervention in bilingual settings and to offer a framework in personal and family-centred intervention. Results suggest that family-centred intervention is an approach that allows to empowering families to significantly support their children's communicative development.

Deterioro de la memoria visuoespacial en estadios 2 y 3 de la enfermedad de Parkinson Publication date: Available online 23 January 2019 Source: Revista de Logopedia, Foniatría y Audiología Author(s): María Soledad Sandoval, Nicole Clause, Magdalena Cancino, Patricia Mora, Pamela Mundaca, Constanza Pantoja, Romina Rojas, Victoria Valdés Resumen Objetivo La enfermedad de Parkinson no solo suele relacionarse con dificultades motoras sino también con deterioro cognitivo. En este sentido, cabe preguntarse si las funciones cognitivas relacionadas con información visuoespacial se ven afectadas a medida que aumenta la severidad de la enfermedad. Método A partir de la evaluación y análisis del procesamiento y la memoria visuoespacial mediante el test Figura compleja de Rey-Osterrieth en 27 sujetos con enfermedad de Parkinson en estadios 2 y 3 se pretenden establecer diferencias según el estadio. Resultados Los resultados evidencian diferencias significativas en la memoria visuoespacial, lo que podría indicar que la evolución de la enfermedad parece determinar la severidad de la alteración cognitiva, principalmente en lo que respecta a memoria visuoespacial. Conclusión A partir de los resultados, se sugiere incorporar evaluaciones fonoaudiológicas de la información visuoespacial en esta población con el fin de diseñar planes terapéuticos enfocados en el déficit neuropsicológico. Abstract Objective Parkinson's disease is not only related to motor difficulties but also to cognitive impairmet. Hence, it is worth knowing if the cognitive functions related to visuospatial information are affected as the severity of the disease increases. Method This study intends to establish differences according to the Parkinson's disease stage from evaluation and analysis of visuospatial information in 27 patients using the Complex figure of Rey-Osterrieth test. Results The results show significant differences in the visuospatial memory between both groups, which could indicates that the evolution of the disease seems to determine the severity of the cognitive alteration, mainly with regard to visuospatial memory. Conclusion The results suggest to incorporate visuospatial information in speech-language evaluations of Parkinson's disease patients in order to design therapeutic plans focused on the neuropsychological deficit.

Calidad de vida en personas con disartria Publication date: January–March 2019 Source: Revista de Logopedia, Foniatría y Audiología, Volume 39, Issue 1 Author(s): Catalina Aceituno, Sofía Aranda, Gisselle Palma, Catalina Pino, Pedro Villegas, Camilo Quezada, Lilian Toledo-Rodríguez Resumen Introducción La disartria corresponde a un trastorno adquirido del habla de origen neurológico. Habitualmente, la evaluación se centra en describir los procesos motores del habla afectados, las características perceptuales y determinar el grado de severidad a través de la inteligibilidad del habla. Pocas veces se explora el impacto de este trastorno sobre la calidad de vida de la persona. Método Se realizó un estudio cuantitativo, no experimental, transversal, descriptivo y correlacional. Se evaluaron 21 personas con disartria (51.04 ± 13.06 años, 13 hombres) con el protocolo de evaluación de habla para pacientes disártricos y el cuestionario autoadministrado de calidad de vida en hablantes disártricos (QOL-Dys). Resultados Las personas con disartria ven alterada su calidad de vida. Hay una correlación significativa con el grado de severidad de la disartria (r = -.5, p =.02). La inteligibilidad predice de manera significativa el puntaje en el cuestionario de calidad de vida total (R2 =.2, p =.04). El puntaje más bajo se presenta en la percepción de la reacción de los otros (1.66 ± 12.93), y el más alto en enfrentarse a situaciones difíciles (24.38 ± 9.12). Conclusión La disartria afecta la calidad de vida de las personas. Se recomienda su evaluación para mejorar la intervención en estas personas. Abstract Introduction Dysarthria is an acquired motor speech disorder of neurological origin. Usually assessment focuses on describing the affected motor processes of speech, perceptual characteristics and determining the degree of severity through speech intelligibility, but rarely explores the impact it has on the quality of life of the person. Method A quantitative, non-experimental, cross-sectional, descriptive and correlational study was performed. Twenty-one patients with dysarthria (51.04 ± 13.06 years, 13 men) were evaluated with the speech assessment protocol for dysarthric patients and the self-administered quality of life questionnaire for dysarthric speakers (QOL-Dys). Results The quality of life of people with dysarthria is affected (QOL), which correlates significantly with the degree of severity of the dysarthria (r = -.5, p = .02). Intelligibility significantly predicts the score of the total quality of life questionnaire (R2 =.2, p = .04). The lowest score occurred in the perception of the reaction of the others (16.66 ± 12.93), and the highest in dealing with difficult situations (24.38 ± 9.12). Conclusion Quality of life is affected in people with dysarthria, its assessment is recommended to improve intervention in these people.

Consideraciones para la intervención de los apoyos de la comunicación y el lenguaje en la escuela inclusiva Publication date: January–March 2019 Source: Revista de Logopedia, Foniatría y Audiología, Volume 39, Issue 1 Author(s): Juan Jorge Muntaner Guasp Resumen La evolución de la integración educativa hacia el paradigma de la inclusión representa un cambio radical en la perspectiva de análisis de la realidad de las escuelas, en cuanto a la diversidad del alumnado, y de las propuestas de intervención que se centran ahora no en los déficits y limitaciones del individuo, sino en las oportunidades y alternativas que les ofrece el contexto. La puesta en práctica del modelo inclusivo requiere la creación de equipos docentes, que incluyan al profesorado de apoyo como elemento clave para el desarrollo del proyecto. Miembros de este equipo de apoyo son los especialistas en comunicación y lenguaje, que plantean, en un modelo de educación inclusiva, una intervención no de carácter clínico ni terapéutico ni aislado, sino integral que considera el entorno natural del aula como clave para el proceso de adquisición y desarrollo de la capacidad lingüística y comunicativa de todos los alumnos. Este modelo de intervención tiene en el trabajo en equipo y la colaboración el elemento fundamental para garantizar el éxito en la implementación y desarrollo del modelo de la educación inclusiva, que plantea la necesidad de ofrecer propuestas coordinadas entre el apoyo y el tutor a partir de dimensiones y áreas curriculares comunes para trabajar la diversidad del alumnado en cuento a la comunicación y el lenguaje, que potencien y trabajen elementos válidos para todos e imprescindibles para algunos. Abstract The evolution of educational integration towards a paradigm of inclusiveness represents a radical change in the perspective of analysing school reality with regard to student diversity and intervention proposals, focused now not on individual shortcomings and limitations, but on the opportunities and alternatives offered to them in this context. Putting an inclusive model into practice requires setting up teaching teams, including support for teachers as a key element to implement the project. Members of this support team are specialists in communication and language which they suggest, in an inclusive education model, an intervention without a clinical, therapeutic or isolated nature, but rather as an integral part that takes into account the natural setting of the classroom as key for the process of acquiring and developing linguistic and communication skills amongst all students. Teamwork and collaboration are the key elements of this intervention model to ensure the inclusive education model is successfully implemented and rolled out. It includes the need to offer coordinated proposals between the support and tutor staff based on curricular dimensions and areas to work on student diversity regarding communication and language, which strengthen and work on elements that are valid for all students and which are essential for some.

Modificación del índice de perturbación vocal integrado mediante terapia de voz en personas con disfonía funcional en Santiago de Cali, Colombia Publication date: January–March 2019 Source: Revista de Logopedia, Foniatría y Audiología, Volume 39, Issue 1 Author(s): Alejandro Rodríguez Campo, María Esperanza Sastoque, Claudia Gómez Resumen Introducción La terapia de voz es una práctica que no está ampliamente fundamentada en la evidencia investigativa; la valoración y el seguimiento de los programas de rehabilitación se apoyan casi exclusivamente en el análisis perceptual y pocas evaluaciones acústicas reportan medidas que no se han interrelacionado entre sí para determinar grados de riesgo vocal en diferentes poblaciones con disfonía. El objetivo de esta investigación fue valorar acústicamente el efecto de 2 tipos de terapia vocal (mixta y directa) en personas con disfonía funcional empleando el índice de perturbación vocal integrado. Método Se seleccionó una muestra de 20 personas entre los 20 y 60 años con disfonía funcional; se evaluó toda la muestra mediante análisis acústico con el software Anagraf y se fraccionó la muestra en 2 grupos, el primero recibió terapia vocal mixta y el segundo únicamente terapia vocal directa. Se evaluaron acústicamente las voces, posterior a la terapia, y se comparó el efecto de los 2 tipos de intervención propuestos. Resultados El índice de perturbación vocal integrado se encontró alterado para la mayor parte de la muestra de ambos grupos, preterapia vocal. Finalizada la terapia tanto mixta como directa, se encontró que este índice clasificó voces en rangos de normalidad y voces en riesgo disminuyendo su grado de alteración. Conclusión El índice de perturbación vocal integrado se modificó favorablemente para ambos grupos de terapia. No obstante, esta modificación fue estadísticamente significativa para el grupo que realizó terapia vocal mixta. Abstract Introduction Voice therapy is a practice that is not extensively based on research evidence; the assessment and monitoring of rehabilitation programmes are generally based on perceptual analysis, and few acoustic measures have not been correlated with each other to determine the extent of vocal risk among different kinds of populations with dysphonia. The aim of this research was the acoustic assessment of the effect of 2 types of voice therapy (mixed and direct) in individuals with functional dysphonia using the integrated vocal disturbance index. Method A sample of 20 functional dysphonic individuals aged between 20 and 60 years was selected. The individuals were assessed through an acoustic analysis using Anagraf software. The sample was split into 2 groups; the first one received mixed voice therapy and the second only received direct voice therapy. The post-therapy voices were acoustically assessed, comparing the effect of the techniques proposed. Results The integrated vocal disturbance index was found to be altered for most of the individuals in both groups before receiving voice therapy. On completion of the mixed and direct voice therapy, it was found that the index classified the voices into normal and at risk, decreasing their extent of disturbance. Conclusion The integrated vocal disturbance index was favourably modified for both therapy groups. However, this was statistically more significant for the group that received mixed voice therapy.

Eficacia de un programa de fluidez lectora con escolares disléxicos Publication date: January–March 2019 Source: Revista de Logopedia, Foniatría y Audiología, Volume 39, Issue 1 Author(s): Natalia Ferrada Quezada, Paula Outón Oviedo Resumen Antecedentes y objetivo Una de las dificultades más comunes en la dislexia es la falta de fluidez lectora. Esta dificultad consiste en leer un texto con mucho esfuerzo, empleando excesivo tiempo y sin la expresión adecuada. El tratamiento de esta dificultad ha comprendido diversas estrategias, siendo la lectura oral repetida una de las más utilizadas. Los objetivos de este estudio fueron comprobar la eficacia de un programa de fluidez lectora centrado en la lectura repetida y expresiva de textos teatrales y determinar si su efectividad depende de la realidad sociocultural y económica de los estudiantes. Método En el estudio participaron 11 estudiantes de tercero y cuarto curso de educación primaria con dislexia, distribuidos en dos grupos según el centro educativo de procedencia (público o concertado). Para comprobar la eficacia del programa se optó por un diseño preexperimental pretest postest. Como variables dependientes de la fluidez se utilizaron la exactitud, la automatización y la prosodia, medidas a través de la lectura de textos teatrales, la prueba Fundar y una Escala de Apreciación de la Prosodia. Resultados Los resultados mostraron que los participantes mejoraron significativamente en automatización y prosodia, pero no tanto en exactitud lectora. Además, el programa obtuvo resultados similares en ambos grupos de estudiantes. Conclusiones Estos hallazgos coinciden con otros estudios y sugieren que la lectura de textos teatrales es una estrategia eficaz para la mejora de la fluidez lectora en el alumnado disléxico de estas edades. Abstract Background and objective One of the most common difficulties for dyslexics is the lack of reading fluency. This difficulty involves a lot of effort in order to read a text, spending an excessive amount of time, and with a lack of expressiveness. For the treatment of this difficulty, several strategies have been considered, repeated reading being the most commonly used. The aims of this study are to determine the effectiveness of an intervention programme aimed at improving reading fluency through theatre scripts, and observe whether the results depend upon students' sociocultural and economic background. Method The sample consisted of 11 third- and fourth-grade students with dyslexia distributed into two groups according to the educational centre of provenance (public or charter school). A pre-experimental design pre-test and post-test study approach was used to prove the effectiveness of the programme. Automation and prosody were evaluated as accuracy-dependent variables through the reading of theatrical texts, the Fundar Reading Proficiency test, and a Scale of Prosody Assessment. Results Results indicate that children improved significantly in automation and prosody, but not that much in reading accuracy. Furthermore, the programme obtained similar results in both groups. Conclusions These findings match other studies and suggest that the reading of theatrical texts is an effective strategy for improving reading fluency in dyslexic students of this age group.