bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gray‐matter relationships to diagnostic and transdiagnostic features of drug and behavioral addictions
Authors: Yip Sarah W. , Worhunsky Patrick D. , Xu Jiansong , Morie Kristen P. , Constable R. Todd , Malison Robert T. , Carroll Kathleen M. , Potenza Marc N.
Published: February 2017

Alterations in neural structure have been reported in both cocaine‐use disorder and gambling disorder, separately, suggesting similarities across addiction diagnoses. Individual variation in neural structure has also been associated with impulsivity, a dimensional construct implicated in addictions. This study combines categorical (diagnosis‐based) and dimensional (transdiagnostic) approaches to identify neural structural alterations linked to addiction subtypes and trait impulsivity, respectively, across individuals with gambling disorder (n = 35), individuals with cocaine‐use disorder (n = 37) and healthy comparison individuals (n = 37). High‐resolution T1‐weighted data were analyzed using modulated voxel‐based morphometry (VBM). Statistical analyses were conducted using whole‐brain general‐linear models, corrected for family‐wise error (pFWE < .05). Categorical analyses indicated a main effect of diagnostic group on prefrontal (dorsal anterior cingulate and ventromedial prefrontal cortex) gray matter volumes (GMVs), involving decreased GMVs among cocaine‐use disorder participants only. Dimensional analyses indicated a negative association between trait impulsivity and cortical (insula) and subcortical (amygdala and hippocampus) GMVs across all participants. Conjunction analysis indicated little anatomical overlap between regions identified as differentiating diagnostic groups and regions covarying with impulsivity. These data provide first evidence of neural structural differences between gambling disorder and an illicit substance‐use disorder. They further indicate dissociable effects of diagnostic groupings and trait impulsivity on neural structure among individuals with behavioral and drug addictions. Study findings highlight the importance of considering both categorical and dimensional (e.g. Research Domain Criteria; RDoC) analysis approaches within the context of addictions research.
Electronic cigarettes and mental illness: Reviewing the evidence for help and harm among those with psychiatric and substance use disorders
Authors: Hefner Kathryn , Valentine Gerald , Sofuoglu Mehmet
Published: February 2017

Background and Objectives

Adults with mental illness (MI) use combustible tobacco at increased rates and have greater difficulty quitting smoking. Given the increasing popularity of electronic cigarettes (e‐cigarettes), their use by those with MI has important health implications. While preliminary evidence suggests potential benefits of e‐cigarette use for those with MI, well‐controlled, systematic research examining appeal, correlates, and consequences of e‐cigarette use in this vulnerable population is lacking. This review evaluated current knowledge of e‐cigarette use and potential for help and/or harm among adults with MI.

Methods

The search strategy resulted in k = 88 reports, of which k = 9 were deemed relevant.

Results

E‐cigarette use is prevalent among those with MI, as is concurrent use of e‐cigarettes and combustibles. E‐cigarettes appeal to those with MI as a viable alternative to combustible tobacco, and their use does not appear to exacerbate nicotine addiction or psychiatric symptoms. However, the long‐term impact of e‐cigarette use on combustible tobacco use and other health indices is largely unknown.

Discussion and Conclusions

Rigorous research and improved knowledge regarding risks and benefits of e‐cigarette use within this vulnerable population are needed to inform whether special consideration is warranted towards those with MI in developing tobacco control policies and health communications. Recommendations for future e‐cigarette research include improved assessment of the following: 1) psychodiagnostic variability, 2) flavor preferences, 3) the longitudinal impact on combustible tobacco use, and 4) impact of tobacco product communications.

Scientific Significance

As with combustible cigarettes, individuals with MI may display unique e‐cigarette use patterns from that of the general population. (Am J Addict 2017;26:306–315)
Letter: causes of fatigue in inflammatory bowel disease remain uncertain
Authors: Gracie D. J. , Ford A. C.
Published: February 2017

Linked Content

This article is linked to Artom et al papers. To view these articles visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.13870 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.13935.
Letter: more studies are needed to elucidate any association between Helicobacter pylori infection and Barrett's metaplasia
Authors: Talebi Bezmin Abadi A.
Published: February 2017

Linked Content

This article is linked to Sonnenberg et al paper. To view this article visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.13854.
Letter: causes of fatigue in inflammatory bowel disease remain uncertain – authors’ reply
Authors: Artom M. , Czuber‐Dochan W. , Norton C.
Published: February 2017

Linked Content

This article is linked to Artom et al and Gracie and Ford papers. To view these articles visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.13870 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.13922.
Glucocorticoids improve endothelial function in rheumatoid arthritis: a study in rats with adjuvant-induced arthritis
Authors: Verhoeven F , Totoson P , Maguin-Gaté K , Prigent-Tessier A , Marie C , Wendling D , Moretto J , Prati C , Demougeot C
Published: February 2017

To determine the effect of glucocorticoids (GCs) on endothelial dysfunction (ED) and on traditional cardiovascular (CV) risk factors in the adjuvant-induced arthritis (AIA) rat model. At the first signs of AIA, a high dose (HD) [10 mg/kg/day, intraperitoneally (i.p.), GC-HD] or low dose (LD) (1 mg/kg/day, i.p., GC-LD) of prednisolone was administered for 3 weeks. Endothelial function was studied in aortic rings relaxed with acetylcholine (Ach) with or without inhibitors of nitric oxide synthase (NOS), cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2), arginase, endothelium derived hyperpolarizing factor (EDHF) and superoxide anions (O2–°) production. Aortic expression of endothelial NOS (eNOS), Ser1177-phospho-eNOS, COX-2, arginase-2, p22phox and p47phox was evaluated by Western blotting analysis. Arthritis scores, blood pressure, heart rate and blood levels of cytokines, triglycerides, cholesterol and glucose were measured. GC-HD but not GC-LD reduced arthritis score significantly and improved Ach-induced relaxation (P < 0·05). The positive effect of GC-HD resulted from increased NOS activity and EDHF production and decreased COX-2/arginase activities and O2–° production. These functional effects relied upon increased phospho-eNOS expression and decreased COX-2, arginase-2 and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidase expression. Despite the lack of effect of GC-LD on ED, it increased NOS and EDHF and down-regulated O2–° pathways but did not change arginase and COX-2 pathways. GC-HD increased triglycerides levels and blood pressure significantly (P < 0·05). Both doses of GCs decreased to the same extent as plasma interleukin (IL)-1β and tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α levels (P < 0·05). Our data demonstrated that subchronic treatment with prednisolone improved endothelial function in AIA via pleiotropic effects on endothelial pathways. These effects occurred independently of the deleterious cardiometabolic effects and the impact of prednisolone on systemic inflammation.
Around the world, adolescence is a time of heightened sensation seeking and immature self‐regulation
Authors: Steinberg Laurence , Icenogle Grace , Shulman Elizabeth P. , Breiner Kaitlyn , Chein Jason , Bacchini Dario , Chang Lei , Chaudhary Nandita , Giunta Laura Di , Dodge Kenneth A. , Fanti Kostas A. , Lansford Jennifer E. , Malone Patrick S. , Oburu Paul , Pastorelli Concetta , Skinner Ann T. , Sorbring Emma , Tapanya Sombat , Tirado Liliana Maria Uribe , Alampay Liane Peña , Al‐Hassan Suha M. , Takash Hanan M. S.
Published: February 2017

The dual systems model of adolescent risk‐taking portrays the period as one characterized by a combination of heightened sensation seeking and still‐maturing self‐regulation, but most tests of this model have been conducted in the United States or Western Europe. In the present study, these propositions are tested in an international sample of more than 5000 individuals between ages 10 and 30 years from 11 countries in Africa, Asia, Europe and the Americas, using a multi‐method test battery that includes both self‐report and performance‐based measures of both constructs. Consistent with the dual systems model, sensation seeking increased between preadolescence and late adolescence, peaked at age 19, and declined thereafter, whereas self‐regulation increased steadily from preadolescence into young adulthood, reaching a plateau between ages 23 and 26. Although there were some variations in the magnitude of the observed age trends, the developmental patterns were largely similar across countries.
Academic Institutions, Ambiguity and Learning Outcomes as Management Tools
Authors: Bleiklie Ivar , Frølich Nicoline , Sweetman Rachel , Henkel Mary
Published: February 2017

Specifying learning outcomes (LOs) in higher education as part of the European Qualification Framework (EQF) has resulted in a variety of experiences in the national contexts of England and Norway, as well as in different institutional and disciplinary settings. This article contributes to a contextualised understanding of the kind of management tools that higher education learning outcomes (HELOs) are, based on a conceptually‐informed comparative empirical analysis. The comparison is based on two types of disciplines (the humanities and STEM) in two national contexts (Norway and England) at two research‐intensive universities in each country. These settings offer an opportunity to look for evidence – inspired by public administration literature – as to whether HELOs have some specific characteristics as management tools. HELOs share the characteristics that afflict most reform policies – that of ambiguity and the potential of being shaped by a number of circumstantial factors. Higher education institutions are highly dependent on, and embedded in, multiple relationships to the environment. Hence, as decision making structures, they are ‘penetrated’ and influenced in ways that are likely to vary across countries, types of institutions and academic disciplines. Because institutions and disciplinary groups are embedded in different policy (varying degrees and forms of state steering and policy implementation) and organisational environments (different degrees and forms of hierarchical leadership, managerial control, and autonomy) and different disciplines (different perceptions of scientific‐, professional‐, educational mission, and relationships to external stakeholders) they also constitute different organisational spaces for participation and engagement in shaping and using HELOs.
A Socio‐Geographic Perspective on Human Activities in Social Media
Authors: Ma Ding , Sandberg Mats , Jiang Bin
Published: February 2017

Location‐based social media make it possible to understand social and geographic aspects of human activities. However, previous studies have mostly examined these two aspects separately without looking at how they are linked. The study aims to connect two aspects by investigating whether there is any correlation between social connections and users' check‐in locations from a socio‐geographic perspective. We constructed three types of networks: a people–people network, a location–location network, and a city–city network from former location‐based social media Brightkite and Gowalla in the U.S., based on users' check‐in locations and their friendships. We adopted some complexity science methods such as power‐law detection and head/tail breaks classification method for analysis and visualization. Head/tail breaks recursively partitions data into a few large things in the head and many small things in the tail. By analyzing check‐in locations, we found that users' check‐in patterns are heterogeneous at both the individual and collective levels. We also discovered that users' first or most frequent check‐in locations can be the representatives of users' spatial information. The constructed networks based on these locations are very heterogeneous, as indicated by the high ht‐index. Most importantly, the node degree of the networks correlates highly with the population at locations (mostly with R2 being 0.7) or cities (above 0.9). This correlation indicates that the geographic distributions of the social media users relate highly to their online social connections.
Mediator cyclin‐dependent kinases upregulate transcription of inflammatory genes in cooperation with NF‐κB and C/EBPβ on stimulation of Toll‐like receptor 9
Authors: Yamamoto Seiji , Hagihara Tomoko , Horiuchi Yoshiyuki , Okui Akira , Wani Shotaro , Yoshida Tokuyuki , Inoue Takao , Tanaka Aki , Ito Takashi , Hirose Yutaka , Ohkuma Yoshiaki
Published: February 2017

In eukaryotes, the Mediator complex has important roles in regulation of transcription by RNA polymerase II. Mediator is a large complex with more than 20 subunits that form head, middle, tail and CDK/cyclin modules. Among them, CDK8 and/or CDK19 (CDK8/19), and their counterpart cyclin C, form the CDK/cyclin module together with Mediator subunits MED12 and MED13. Despite evidences of both activation and repression, the precise functional roles of CDK8/19 in transcription are still elusive. Our previous results indicate that CDK8/19 recruits epigenetic regulators to repress immunoresponse genes. Here, this study focused on Toll‐like receptors (TLRs), which exert innate immune responses through recognition of pathogen‐associated molecular patterns and examined the functional roles of CDK8/19. As a result, CDK8/19 regulated transcription of inflammatory genes on stimulation of TLR9 in myeloma‐derived RPMI8226 cells, which led to expression of inflammation‐associated genes such as IL8, IL10, PTX3 and CCL2. Mediator subunits CDK8/19 and MED1, inflammation‐related transcriptional activator NF‐κB and C/EBPβ, and general transcription factors TFIIE and TFIIB colocalized at the promoter regions of these genes under this condition. Our results show that CDK8/19 positively regulates inflammatory gene transcription in cooperation with NF‐κB and C/EBPβ on stimulation of TLR9.
Between‐patch natal dispersal declines with increasing natal patch size and distance to other patches in the endangered Southern Dunlin Calidris alpina schinzii
Authors: Pakanen Veli‐Matti , Koivula Kari , Flodin Lars‐Åke , Grissot Antoine , Hagstedt Robin , Larsson Mikael , Pauliny Angela , Rönkä Nelli , Blomqvist Donald
Published: February 2017

Natal dispersal has profound consequences for populations through the movement of individuals and genes. Habitat fragmentation reduces structural connectivity by decreasing patch size and increasing isolation, but understanding of how this impacts dispersal and the functional connectivity of landscapes is limited because many studies are constrained by the size of the study areas or sample sizes to accurately capture natal dispersal. We quantified natal dispersal probability and natal dispersal distances in a small migratory shorebird, the Southern Dunlin Calidris alpina schinzii, with data from two extensively monitored endangered metapopulations breeding in Sweden and Finland. In both metapopulations philopatry was strong, with individuals returning to or close to their natal patches more often than expected by chance, consistent with the patchy distribution of their breeding habitat. Dispersal probabilities were lower and dispersal distances were shorter in Sweden. These results provide a plausible explanation for the observed inbreeding and population decline of the Swedish population. The differences between Sweden and Finland were explained by patch‐specific differences. Between‐patch dispersal decreased with increasing natal patch size and distance to other patches. Our results suggest that reduced connectivity reduces movements of the philopatric Dunlin, making it vulnerable to the effects of inbreeding. Increasing connectivity between patches should thus be one of the main goals when planning future management. This may be facilitated by creating a network of suitably sized patches (20–100 ha), no more than 20 km apart from each other, from existing active patches that may work as stepping stones for movement, and by increasing nest success and pre‐fledging survival in small patches.
From “I” to “We”: Different forms of identity, emotion, and belief predict victim support volunteerism among nominal and active supporters
Authors: Thomas Emma F. , Rathmann Lisa , McGarty Craig
Published: February 2017

Understanding how to attract and maintain volunteers is crucial for the operation of victim support organizations. We propose that volunteerism can be understood in a similar way as collective action. Active (N = 99) and nominal supporters (N = 134) completed measures of identities (personal, social, and organizational), emotions (sympathy, outrage, and pride), and efficacy beliefs (self‐, group, and organizational). The results revealed a different pattern of predictors of volunteerism for the two samples. Among nominal supporters, commitment to volunteerism was predicted by personal identity (“I”), sympathy, and self‐efficacy; among the actively engaged, volunteerism was predicted by social identity (“we”), outrage, and self‐efficacy. These results suggest that engagement with volunteerism is associated with qualitatively different processes for those nominally versus actively supportive of volunteer efforts.
Importance of environmental and spatial components for species and trait composition in terrestrial snail communities
Authors: Astor Tina , von Proschwitz Ted , Strengbom Joachim , Berg Matty P. , Bengtsson Jan
Published: February 2017

Aim

Despite the huge diversity of soil animals and their recognized contribution to many ecosystem functions, little is known about the relative importance of factors controlling their abundance and distribution. We examined the relative importance of environmental and spatial factors in explaining the species and functional trait composition of terrestrial snail communities at the level of meta‐communities (spatial extent c. 100 × 100 km) in a heterogeneous, intensively used landscape. We hypothesized that both spatial and environmental factors contribute to the variation in community structure across the landscape, but expected environmental variables describing local habitat conditions to be most important.

Location

County of Skåne, south Sweden.

Methods

We quantified community structure in terms of species composition and as functional trait composition, because functional traits directly link species performance to environmental conditions. To disentangle the unique and shared contribution of environmental and spatial factors to the variation in snail community structure (in terms of species and trait composition) we applied a partial redundancy analysis.

Results

Species traits explained more of the variance in community composition than species identity. Snail traits such as tolerance to environmental stress (related to soil moisture content) and niche width were correlated with the main environmental gradient. Environmental variables (i.e. soil moisture content, vegetation characteristics and soil pH) contributed considerably more to variation in community composition (species: 11.4%; traits: 24.9%) than the spatial variables (species: 6.5%; traits: 4.2%).

Main conclusions

The results highlight that both environmental and spatial variables are required to understand the relative importance of niche‐based and intrinsic population processes as drivers of terrestrial snail community structure. However, at the scale of our study niche‐based community structuring explained by the trait–environment relationship is considerably more important than spatial patterning independent of the environment.
Variability in students' evaluating processes in peer assessment with calibrated peer review
Authors: Russell J. , Van Horne S. , Ward A.S. , Bettis E.A. , Gikonyo J.
Published: February 2017

This study investigated students' evaluating process and their perceptions of peer assessment when they engaged in peer assessment using Calibrated Peer Review. Calibrated Peer Review is a web‐based application that facilitates peer assessment of writing. One hundred and thirty‐two students in an introductory environmental science course participated in the study. Two self‐reported surveys and a focus group interview were administered during the semester. The peer assessment data and demographic information were collected at the end of the semester. Although the study results support the agreement between peers and an expert, the variations in a group and individual level were found, in particular, when students evaluated mid‐quality or low‐quality writings regardless of their reviewing ability. Students tended to perceive that the process of evaluating peers' and own writings was helpful in their learning. Further, students' positive perceptions of peer assessment were associated with their understanding of the values of peer assessment tasks and their perceptions of achieving the course goal. We concluded that instructors should provide specific guidelines for how to decide a rating, use actual students' essays instead of instructor‐developed samples to train students and require written explanation for rubric questions to reduce variation in students' ratings and promote learning.
New or Worsening Symptoms and Signs in Community‐Dwelling Persons with Dementia: Incidence and Relation to Use of Acute Medical Services
Authors: Sloane Philip D. , Schifeling Christopher H. , Beeber Anna S. , Ward Kimberly T. , Reed David , Gwyther Lisa P. , Matchar Bobbi , Zimmerman Sheryl
Published: February 2017

Objectives

To understand the range of symptoms that present to family caregivers of community‐dwelling persons with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (ADRD).

Design

Six‐month longitudinal prospective study to identify the incidence of new or worsening symptoms and their association with acute care medical service use.

Setting

Community‐based sample of volunteers from multiple states.

Participants

A total of 136 patient‐caregiver dyads with a range of dementia severity.

Measurements

Forty four symptoms and signs common in older persons and/or persons with dementia; frequency of emergency department visits, hospitalizations, and death; and associations between reported symptoms and acute medical care.

Results

During a mean of 5.7 months’ follow‐up, new or worsening organ‐specific (90% of participants), nonspecific (89%), and behavioral (88%) symptoms were common, with the average caregiver reporting seven new or worsening symptoms. Most common were worsening confusion (74%), decreased activity (64%), agitation (57%), hallucinations/delusions (45%), voice and speaking problems (45%), not eating or drinking (44%), and stress/anxiety (41%). Hospitalization and emergency department use occurred respectively in 19% and 20% of participants, and were associated with organ‐specific symptoms (OR 3.15, P = .02), less so with nonspecific symptoms (OR 2.27, P = .07), and very little with behavioral symptoms (OR 1.44, P = .38). Within each symptom category, certain symptoms were significantly associated with acute medical service use.

Conclusion

Family caregivers of persons with ADRD must respond to a variety of medical, nonspecific, and behavioral symptoms. The high incidence of new or worsening symptoms and of acute medical care use suggests a need to better target symptom evaluation and management in caregiver education.
Mixed‐Methods Pilot Study to Assess Perceptions of Antimicrobial Stewardship in Nursing Homes
Authors: Carter Rebecca R. , Montpetite Michelle M. , Jump Robin L. P.
Published: February 2017

Objectives

To identify features of community nursing home (NH) environments associated with lower rates of overall antibiotic use.

Design

This pilot study used an explanatory sequential design that incorporated comparative feedback about antibiotic use to inform a discussion about antimicrobial stewardship practices in community NHs.

Setting

NHs.

Participants

Clinical leadership of five NHs.

Measurements

For the quantitative phase, the number of antibiotic prescriptions, length of therapy, and days of therapy/1,000 days of care were measured at six NHs. For the qualitative phase, semistructured interviews were conducted with healthcare workers in leadership positions at five community NHs. Transcripts from the recorded interviews were assessed using emergent thematic analysis. For the triangulation phase, themes from the semistructured interviews were evaluated in the context of each NH's antibiotic use.

Results

The number of antibiotic prescriptions ranged from 172 to 1,244, with 50% to 83% written for 7 days or fewer. All NHs reported a similar proportion of fluoroquinolone use (27–32% of days of therapy). Triangulation yielded six themes for which the environment at each facility ranged from less‐ to more‐supportive antimicrobial stewardship: practice patterns, external influences, infection control, leadership, communication, and facility culture. All NHs reported pressure from well‐intentioned family members to prescribe antibiotics. NHs with shorter lengths of therapy and lower overall antibiotic use were consonant with an environment more supportive of antimicrobial stewardship.

Conclusion

These findings suggest several features of NHs that are supportive of antimicrobial stewardship: practice patterns grounded in established diagnostic criteria, proactive infection control and prevention, open communication and interconnectedness among staff.
Effect of magnesium supplementation on type 2 diabetes associated cardiovascular risk factors: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Verma H. , Garg R.
Published: February 2017

Background

Cardiovascular disorders remain the leading cause of death in type 2 diabetic patients. In the present study, a systematic review and a meta‐analysis of randomised controlled trials (RCTs) were conducted aiming to evaluate the effect of magnesium supplementation on type 2 diabetes (T2D) associated cardiovascular risk factors in both diabetic and nondiabetic individuals.

Methods

PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane, Web of Science and Google Scholar databases were searched from inception to 30 June 2016 aiming to identify RCTs evaluating the effect of magnesium supplementation on T2D associated cardiovascular risk factors. The data were analysed using a random effect model with inverse variance methodology. Sensitivity analysis, risk of bias analysis, subgroup analysis, meta‐regression and publication bias analysis were also conducted for the included studies using standard methods.

Results

Following magnesium supplementation, a significant improvement was observed in fasting plasma glucose (FPG) [weighted mean difference (WMD) = −4.641 mg dL−1, 95% confidence interval (CI) = −7.602, −1.680, P = 0.002], high‐density lipoprotein (HDL) (WMD = 3.197 mg dL−1, 95% CI = 1.455, 4.938, P < 0.001), low‐density lipoprotein (LDL) (WMD = −10.668 mg dL−1, 95% CI = −19.108, −2.228, P = 0.013), plasma triglycerides (TG) (WMD = −15.323 mg dL−1, 95% CI = −28.821, −1.826, P = 0.026) and systolic blood pressure (SBP) (WMD = −3.056 mmHg, 95% CI = −5.509, −0.603, P = 0.015). During subgroup analysis, a more beneficial effect of magnesium supplementation was observed in diabetic subjects with hypomagnesaemia.

Conclusions

Magnesium supplementation can produce a favourable effect on FPG, HDL, LDL, TG and SBP. Therefore, magnesium supplementation may decrease the risk T2D associated cardiovascular diseases, although future large RCTs are needed for making robust guidelines for clinical practice.
Defining and comparing learning actions in two simulation modalities: students training on a latex arm and each other's arms
Authors: Ravik Monika , Havnes Anton , Bjørk Ida Torunn
Published: February 2017

Aims and objectives

To explore, describe and compare learning actions that nursing students used during peripheral vein cannulation training on a latex arm or each other's arms in a clinical skills centre.

Background

Simulation‐based training is thought to enhance learning and transfer of learning from simulation to the clinical setting and is commonly recommended in nursing education. What students actually are doing during simulation‐based training is, however, less explored. The analysis of learning actions used during simulation‐based training could contribute to development and improvement of simulation as a learning strategy in nursing education.

Design

A qualitative explorative and descriptive research design, involving content analysis of video recordings, was used.

Methods

Video‐supported observation of nine nursing students practicing vein cannulation was conducted in a clinical skills centre in late 2012.

Results

The students engaged in various learning actions. Students training on a latex arm used a considerably higher number of learning actions relative to those training on each other's arms. In both groups, students’ learning actions consisted mainly of seeking and giving support. The teacher provided students training on each other's arms with detailed feedback regarding insertion of the cannula into the vein, while those training on a latex arm received sparse feedback from the teacher and fellow students.

Conclusion

The teacher played an important role in facilitating nursing students’ practical skill learning during simulation. The provision of support from both teachers and students should be emphasised to ensure that nursing students’ learning needs are met.

Relevance to clinical practice

This study suggest that student nurses may be differently and inadequately prepared in peripheral vein cannulation in two simulation modalities used in the academic setting; training on a latex arm and on each other's arms.
C‐Myc regulates radiation‐induced G2/M cell cycle arrest and cell death in human cervical cancer cells
Authors: Cui Fengmei , Hou Jun , Huang Chengcheng , Sun Xiujin , Zeng Yanan , Cheng Huiying , Wang Hao , Li Chao
Published: February 2017

Aim

The study was conducted to investigate the role of c‐Myc in the regulation of ionizing radiation‐induced cell cycle arrest and cell death in human cervical cancer cells.

Methods

Control and c‐Myc‐silenced Hela cells were collected at different time points after 60Co γ‐ray radiation. Flow cytometry was used to measure cell cycle distribution and apoptosis. Immunofluorescence was applied to determine the percentage of cells in M phase. Transmission electron microscopy and immunoblotting were used to detect the induction of autophagy after radiation. Immunoblotting was also used to measure the expression levels of apoptosis‐related proteins.

Results

In c‐Myc‐silenced cells, radiation induced delayed but long‐lasting G2/M arrest and an abnormal M phase compared with the control. In addition, c‐Myc knockdown significantly inhibited apoptotic cell death induced by radiation. Meanwhile, radiation‐induced autophagy appeared stronger in c‐Myc‐silenced cells. Mechanically, we found that Caspase 8 and survivin expression was decreased in c‐Myc‐silenced Hela‐630 cells.

Conclusions

These data showed that c‐Myc serves as a co‐regulator in radiation‐induced G2/M cell cycle arrest and cell death in human cervical cancer cells.
Management of acute ischaemic stroke in patients with dementia
Authors: Subic A. , Cermakova P. , Norrving B. , Winblad B. , von Euler M. , Kramberger M. G. , Eriksdotter M. , Garcia‐Ptacek S.
Published: February 2017

An estimated 10% of stroke patients have an underlying dementia. As a consequence, health professionals often face the challenge of managing patients with dementia presenting with an acute stroke. Patients with dementia are less likely to receive thrombolysis (0.56–10% vs. 1–16% thrombolysis rates in the general population), be admitted to a stroke unit or receive some types of care. Anticoagulation for secondary stroke prevention is sometimes withheld, despite dementia not being listed as an exclusion criterion in current guidelines. Studies in this population are scarce, and results have been contradictory. Three observational studies have examined intravenous thrombolysis for treatment of acute ischaemic stroke in patients with dementia. In the two largest matched case–control studies, there were no significant differences between patients with and without dementia in the risks of intracerebral haemorrhage or mortality. The risk of intracerebral haemorrhage ranged between 14% and 19% for patients with dementia. Studies of other interventions for stroke are lacking for this population. Patients with dementia are less likely to be discharged home compared with controls (19% vs. 41%) and more likely to be disabled (64% vs. 59%) or die during hospitalization (22% vs. 11%). The aim of this review was to summarize current knowledge about the management of ischaemic stroke in patients with pre‐existing dementia, including organizational aspects of stroke care, intravenous thrombolysis, access to stroke unit care and use of supportive treatment. Evidence to support anticoagulation for secondary prevention of stroke in patients with atrial fibrillation and antiplatelet therapy in nonembolic stroke will be discussed, as well as rehabilitation and how these factors influence patient outcomes. Finally, ethical issues, knowledge gaps and pathways for future research will be considered.
Efficacy and Safety of Gabapentin in Comparison to Solifenacin Succinate in Adult Overactive Bladder Treatment
Authors: CHUA Michael E. , SEE Manuel C. , ESMEŇA Ednalyn B. , BALINGIT Jaime C. , MORALES Marcelino L.
Published: February 2017

Objective

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of gabapentin in comparison to solifenacin succinate and placebo for the treatment of adult patients with overactive bladder (OAB).

Method

A 12‐week, randomized, double‐blind, double dummy placebo‐controlled, clinical trial was conducted between October 2010 and August 2014 at a tertiary medical center. Eligible and consenting patients included were randomized into three treatment groups (placebo, gabapentin and solifenacin). After a 12‐week treatment period, an intention to treat analysis was applied to assess between group differences on the micturitions and urgency episodes per 24 h; which were evaluated by 3‐day micturition diary mean change from baseline to post treatment. Health related quality of life (HRQOL) domains were likewise assessed by OAB questionnaire (OAB‐q). Adverse event were monitored and summarized. Study results were analyzed at statistical significance of 0.05. (ClinicalTrials.gov ID NCT01486706)

Result

A total of 94 participants were included for end‐study efficacy and safety analysis. Compared to placebo, gabapentin and solifenacin have statistically significant improvement in mean number of micturitions per 24 h (adjusted mean difference [AMD] −1.179, 95%CI −1.98, −0.38; P < 0.001; −1.706, 95%CI −2.52, −0.09; P < 0.001; respectively), and in mean number of urgency episodes per 24 h (AMD −0.903, 95%CI −1.44, −0.37; P < 0.001; −0.896, 95%CI −1.44, −0.35; P < 0.001). Gabapentin also demonstrated significant improvement over the solifenacin in the mean number of nocturia episodes/24 h (AMD −0.607, 95%CI −1.04, −0.18; P < 0.001). Adverse event related to gabapentin treatment was lesser than solifenacin, and comparable to placebo.

Conclusion

Gabapentin treatment with acceptable safety profile, improves OAB symptoms and HRQOL domains.
T cell responses to peptides of Goodpasture autoantigen in patients with anti‐glomerular basement membrane disease
Authors: Hu Shui‐Yi , Jia Xiao‐Yu , Gu Qiu‐Hua , Yu Chong‐Yan , Cheng Xu‐Yang , Jin Qi‐Zhuang , Zhou Fu‐De , Cui Zhao , Zhao Ming‐Hui
Published: February 2017

Aim

Cell‐mediated autoimmunity, especially autoreactive T cells, is crucial in the initiation of anti‐glomerular membrane (GBM) disease. Epitopes for T cells on Goodpasture autoantigen are not fully defined. This study investigated T cell epitopes in anti‐GBM patients, aiming to identify the epitopes and their clinical significance.

Methods

Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) were collected from 13 patients with anti‐GBM disease. Twenty‐four overlapping linear peptides were synthesized covering the whole sequence of human α3(IV)NC1. PBMC response to each peptide was detected by proliferation assay. Their associations with clinical features were further analyzed.

Results

Peripheral blood mononuclear cells proliferative responses to linear peptides on α3(IV)NC1 could be detected in all patients. Five major epitopes were identified as stimulatory in over half of the patients: α3(IV)NC1127–148 (P14) (69.2%), α3(IV)NC1159–178 (77.8%), α3(IV)NC1179–198 (55.6%), α3(IV)NC1189–208 (P19) (75.0%) and α3(IV)NC1141–154 (57.1%). P14 and P19 were highly recognized in patients comparing with healthy controls (69.2% vs. 0.0%, P = 0.011; 75.0% vs. 0.0%, P = 0.021, respectively).

Conclusion

T cell proliferation to linear epitopes was detected in human anti‐GBM disease. α3127–148 was a mutual T and B cell epitope, implying its initial role in epitope spreading process.
Registration of serial maxillary models via the weighted rugae superimposition method
Authors: Abdi A. H. , Nouri M.
Published: February 2017

Objectives

We introduce a weighted method for superimposition of serial digital maxillary models based on the variable stability of rugae points.

Setting and sample population

Plaster maxillary models of 24 randomly selected 12‐year‐olds as well as their models at the age of 14 were obtained and scanned using a benchtop structured‐light 3D scanner.

Methods

The models were registered twice, once via the unweighted and again via the proposed weighted rugae superimposition method based on 12 rugae landmarks. For each superimposition, distances between the corresponding rugae points were measured and compared with reported displacements of rugae points in literature.

Results

The unweighted superimposition produced no meaningful differences in terms of total displacements of registration landmarks, whereas the weighted method recognized the medial points of the third ruga as the most stable landmarks. Results of the weighted method also demonstrated statistically significant smaller changes for medial rugae points in almost every dimension compared to the lateral rugae points. These results comply with the growth patterns of maxilla and rugae point displacements reported in similar studies.

Conclusion

Considering the variable stability of rugae points during growth, the weighted rugae superimposition method results in more promising registrations on serial models. This method prioritizes registration landmarks based on clinical criteria of choice and is suitable for analysis of other structures such as tooth movements.
A prevalence study of bifid mandibular canals using cone beam computed tomography
Authors: Allison J.R. , Carr A.
Published: February 2017

Aim

This study aims to assess the prevalence of bifid mandibular canals in a UK population using cone beam computed tomography.

Materials and Methods

This is a prevalence study of 140 patients (280 sides) referred to a dental hospital in the UK for extraction of a third molar. Canals were classified from cone beam computed tomography images using a novel classification.

Results

At least one bifid canal was seen in 30.00% (n = 42/140) of patients (95% CI: 26.13–33.87%) and in 18.93% (n = 53/280) of sides (95% CI: 16.59–21.27%). The retromolar canal was the most common variant observed.

Conclusions

The bifid mandibular canal appears to be a common anatomical variant, of which clinicians should be aware. These variants are relevant to surgery in the retromolar region, dental extraction and implant placement, where damage has the potential to cause bleeding and sensory disturbance.
Enhanced metal tolerance correlates with heterotypic variation in SpMTL, a metallothionein‐like protein from the hyperaccumulator Sedum plumbizincicola
Authors: Peng Jia‐Shi , Ding Ge , Meng Shuan , Yi Hong‐Ying , Gong Ji‐Ming
Published: February 2017

Mechanistic insight into metal hyperaccumulation is largely restricted to Brassicaceae plants; therefore, it is of great importance to obtain corresponding knowledge from system outside the Brassicaceae. Here, we constructed and screened a cDNA library of the Cd/Zn hyperaccumulator Sedum plumbizincicola and identified a novel metallothionein‐like protein encoding gene SpMTL. SpMTL showed functional similarity to other known MT proteins and also to its orthologues from non‐hyperaccumulators. However, three additional cysteine residues were observed in SpMTL and appeared to be hyperaccumulator specific. Removal of these three residues significantly decreased its ability to tolerate Cd and the stoichiometry of Cd against SpMTL (molar ratio of Cd/SpMTL) to a level comparable to those of Cd/SaMTL and Cd/SeMTL in the corresponding non‐hyperaccumulating relatives. SpMTL expressed in S. plumbizincicola roots at a much higher level than those of its orthologues in the non‐hyperaccumulator roots. Interestingly, a positive correlation was observed between transcript levels of SpMTL in roots and Cd accumulation in leaves. Taking these results together, we propose that elevated transcript levels and heterotypic variation in protein sequences of SpMTL might contribute to the trait of Cd hyperaccumulation and hypertolerance in S. plumbizincicola.
Unexpected distribution patterns of Carduiceps feather lice (Phthiraptera: Ischnocera: Philopteridae) on sandpipers (Aves: Charadriiformes: Scolopacidae)
Authors: GUSTAFSSON DANIEL R. , OLSSON URBAN
Published: February 2017

The louse genus Carduiceps Clay & Meinertzhagen, 1939 is widely distributed on sandpipers and stints (Calidrinae). The current taxonomy includes three species on the Calidrinae (Carduiceps meinertzhageni, Carduiceps scalaris, Carduiceps zonarius) and four species on noncalidrine hosts. We estimated a phylogeny of four of the seven species of Carduiceps (the three mentioned above and Carduiceps fulvofasciatus) from 13 of the 29 hosts based on three mitochondrial loci, and evaluated the relative importance of flyway differentiation (same host species has different lice along different flyways) and flyway homogenization (different host species have the same lice along the same flyway). We found no evidence for either process. Instead, the present, morphology‐based, taxonomy of the genus corresponds exactly to the gene‐based phylogeny, with all four included species monophyletic. Carduiceps zonarius is found both to inhabit a wider range of hosts than wing lice of the genus Lunaceps occurring on the same group of birds, and to occur on Calidris sandpipers of all sizes, both of which are unexpected for a body louse. The previously proposed family Esthiopteridae is found to be monophyletic with good support. The concatenated dataset suggests that the pigeon louse genus Columbicola may be closely related to the auk and diver louse genus Craspedonirmus. These two genera share some morphological characters with Carduiceps, but no support was obtained for grouping these three genera together. Based on mitochondrial data alone, the relationships among genera within this proposed family cannot be properly assessed, but some previously suggested relationships within this proposed family are confirmed.
Cavitation Erosion Resistance of Silicified Graphite by Liquid Silicon Penetration Technique
Authors: Ding Hongqin , Jiang Shuyun
Published: February 2017

This technical brief studied the cavitation erosion behavior of the silicified graphite. The phase constituents, surface microstructure, and chemical compositions of silicified graphite were examined by using X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), respectively. Cavitation experiments were carried out by using an ultrasonic vibration test system. The experimental results show that the silicified graphite exhibits an excellent cavitation erosion resistance; this can be attributed to the fact that the silicified graphite has the characteristics of both the silicon carbide and the graphite. The SEM morphology studies of the erosion surfaces indicated that the inherent brittleness of SiC ceramic material results in the formation of erosion pits on the surface of silicified graphite.
Restructuring Controllers to Accommodate Plant Nonlinearities
Authors: La Cava William G. , Sahare Kushal , Danai Kourosh
Published: February 2017

A method of controller restructuring is introduced for improved closed-loop control of nonlinear plants. In this method, an initial controller, potentially the linear controller designed according to the linearized model of the plant, is expanded into several candidate nonlinear control structures that are subsequently shaped to achieve a desired closed-loop response. The salient feature of the proposed method is a metric for quantifying structural perturbations to the controllers, which it uses to scale the structural Jacobian for improving its condition number. This improved Jacobian underlies shaping of candidate controllers through gradient-based search. Results obtained from three case studies indicate the success of the proposed restructuring method in finding nonlinear controllers that improve not only the closed-loop response of the nonlinear plant but also its robustness to modeling uncertainty.
Historical ecology and the conservation of large, hermaphroditic fishes in Pacific Coast kelp forest ecosystems
Authors: Braje Todd J. , Rick Torben C. , Szpak Paul , Newsome Seth D. , McCain Joseph M. , Elliott Smith Emma A. , Glassow Michael , Hamilton Scott L.
Published: February 2017

Zooarchaeological data are essential for rethinking conservation policies of hermaphroditic fish and building sustainable fisheries.
On message
Authors: Servick Kelly
Published: February 2017

Moderna Therapeutics has raised nearly $2 billion to turn RNA into a new kind of drug. Can it live up to the hype?
Predicting armed conflict: Time to adjust our expectations?
Authors: Cederman Lars-Erik , Weidmann Nils B.
Published: February 2017

This Essay provides an introduction to the general challenges of predicting political violence, particularly compared with predicting other types of events (such as earthquakes). What is possible? What is less realistic? We aim to debunk myths about predicting violence, as well as to illustrate the substantial progress in this field.
Chromosome stitch-up?
Authors: Sherratt David J.
Published: February 2017

Ring-shaped protein machines called SMCs act as molecular zips on bacterial chromosomes