bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Educational disparities in the associations between self‐monitoring of blood glucose and glycemic control in type 2 diabetes patients inXiamen,China
Authors: Zeng Yanbing , Wu Jielong , Han Yaofeng , Chen Fan , Chen Lele , Yang Shuyu , Fang Ya
Published: February 2018

Background

This study examined the combined effects of self‐monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG) and educational attainment on glycemic control in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients.

Methods

A cross‐sectional survey was performed among community residents with T2DM. Good glycemic control was defined as HbA1c <7% in the most recent measurement. Multivariable logistic regression was used to examine associations of glycemic control with SMBG, educational attainment, and their combined effects by controlling for certain covariates, with further stratification by sex.

Results

Complete data were available for 798 patients, of which 58.52% had good glycemic control. Higher education and SMBG were associated with good glycemic control (P < 0.05). In the SMBG group, tertiary‐educated patients had the greatest odds of good glycemic control (odds ratios 2.56; 95% confidence interval 1.31–4.99). Among those performing SMBG, the odds of good glycemic control were higher for those with higher education levels (Ptrend = 0.003), whereas there was no clear trend for those not performing SMBG (Ptrend = 0.071). For subjects attaining secondary and tertiary education levels, the odds of good glycemic control were higher in those performing SMBG, although there was no significant difference between the two groups for those with a primary education. Glycemic control decreased slightly among males with a primary level education, but showed an increasing trend among females with a primary level education.

Conclusions

Sex‐specific educational disparities exist in the association between SMBG and glycemic control. More detailed guidelines for SMBG according to a subject's socioeconomic position and sex are required.
Association between plasma trans‐fatty acid concentrations and diabetes in a nationally representative sample of US adults
Authors: Liu Buyun , Sun Yangbo , Snetselaar Linda G. , Sun Qi , Yang Quanhe , Zhang Zefeng , Liu Liegang , Hu Frank B. , Bao Wei
Published: February 2018

Background

A diet high in trans‐fatty acids (TFA) induces insulin resistance in rodent models and primates. However, previous epidemiological studies on the association between TFAs, based primarily on self‐reported intake from the diet, and diabetes in humans have yielded conflicting results. Herein we examined the associations of objectively measured plasma TFA concentrations with diabetes in a large population‐based study among US adults.

Methods

We included 3801 participants aged ≥20 years from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 1999–2000 and 2009–10. Four major TFAs, namely palmitelaidic acid (C16:1 n‐7t), elaidic acid (C18:1 n‐9t), vaccenic acid (C18:1 n‐7t), and linolelaidic acid (C18:2 n‐6t, 9t), were measured in fasting plasma using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. Diabetes was defined by self‐reported physician diagnosis, plasma fasting glucose ≥126 mg/dL, or HbA1c ≥6.5%.

Results

After adjustment for other major risk factors, the odds ratios (95% confidence intervals) of diabetes comparing the highest with lowest quintile of plasma TFAs was 2.19 (1.27–3.79) for total TFAs (Ptrend = 0.01), 2.34 (1.48–3.72) for elaidic acid (Ptrend = 0.0004), 1.33 (0.82–2.15) for linolelaidic acid (Ptrend = 0.18), 1.58 (0.97–2.58) for palmitelaidic acid (Ptrend = 0.02), and 1.64 (0.95–2.84) for vaccenic acid (Ptrend = 0.08). In addition, total TFAs, elaidic acid, palmitelaidic acid, and vaccenic acid were significantly associated with fasting glucose, fasting insulin, the insulin resistance index, and HbA1c.

Conclusions

In a nationally representative population, plasma TFAs, in particular elaidic acid, were positively associated with diabetes and biomarkers of glucose metabolism.
Neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis in Salukis is caused by a single base pair insertion in CLN8
Authors: Lingaas F. , Guttersrud O‐A. , Arnet E. , Espenes A.
Published: February 2018

Neuronal ceroid lipofuscinoses (NCLs) are heterogenic inherited lysosomal storage diseases that have been described in a number of species including humans, sheep, cattle, cats and a number of different dog breeds, including Salukis. Here we present a novel genetic variant associated with the disease in this particular breed of dog. In a clinical case, a Saluki developed progressive neurological signs, including disorientation, anxiety, difficulties in eating, seizures and loss of vision, and for welfare reasons, was euthanized at 22 months of age. Microscopy showed aggregation of autofluorescent storage material in the neurons of several brain regions and also in the retina. The aggregates showed positive staining with Sudan black B and periodic acid Schiff, all features consistent with NCL. Whole genome sequencing of the case and both its parents, followed by variant calling in candidate genes, identified a new variant in the CLN8 gene: a single bp insertion (c.349dupT) in exon 2, introducing an immediate stop codon (p.Glu117*). The case was homozygous for the insertion, and both parents were heterozygous. A retrospective study of a Saluki from Australia diagnosed with NCL identified this case as being homozygous for the same mutation. This is the fourth variant identified in CLN8 that causes NCL in dogs.
The Pathophysiology of the Pancreatic Defect in Cystic Fibrosis
Authors: DURIE P. R.
Published: February 2018

Studies of the postnatal development of the pancreas in CF infants show a failure of acinar development and an increase in lumen volume with accumulation of secretory material within the pancreatic ducts. Our evaluation of functional changes within the exocrine pancreas are consistent with the pathologic findings. Impaired pancreatic fluid secretion appears to be a primary phenomenon of CF. We have shown that pancreatic secretions from CF patients also contain significantly higher concentrations of protein in comparison with pancreatic function‐matched controls. Since total protein output is not increased, hyperconcentration of protein appears to be a direct result of a primary defect of fluid secretion. Protein hyperconcentration appears to predispose CF patients to protein precipitation and obstruction within small pancreatic ducts which, in turn, produces pancreatic acinar atrophy and fibrosis. Our studies suggest that both bicarbonate and chloride transport within pancreatic ducts account for deficient fluid secretion in the pancreas of CF subjects.
Relation between Essential Fatty Acid Metabolism and Gastrointestinal Symptoms in Cystic Fibrosis
Authors: STRANDVIK B.
Published: February 2018

Studies in our laboratory have supported the hypothesis, that the basic defect in cystic fibrosis increases the metabolism of essential fatty acids and thereby gradually gives rise to essential fatty acid deficiency, which is a well documented finding in most cases with this disease. Both the increased metabolism—giving high liberation of arachidonic acid and its metabolic products, i.e. different eicosanoids—and the subsequent essential fatty acid deficiency will cause gastrointestinal symptoms and the sequence of this development will mirror the natural history of the disease. Clinical data and results from animal research are discussed in relation to gastrointestinal symptoms and signs of cystic fibrosis.
Editorial: restoring therapeutic infliximab drug levels in patients with loss of response—pharmacokinetics and anti‐drug antibodies as useful guidance tools
Authors: Ben‐Horin S.
Published: February 2018

Linked content

This article is linked to Dreesen et al paper. To view this article visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.14452.
Letter: high oral dose of taurine for portal hypertension in cirrhotic patients—some clinical pharmacology considerations
Authors: Srinivas N. R.
Published: February 2018

Linked content

This article is linked to Schwarzer et al paper. To view this article visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.14377.
Editorial: are additional tests needed to predict sustained virologic response in hepatitis C treated with interferon‐free direct‐acting antiviral combinations? Authors’ reply
Authors: Fourati S. , Pawlotsky J.‐M.
Published: February 2018

Linked content

This article is linked to Fourati et al and Ferenci papers. To view these articles visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.14478 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.14508.
Editorial: macrophage activation markers predict prognosis and decompensation in patients with cirrhosis—linking gut permeability, inflammation and cirrhosis progression
Authors: Solé C. , Pose E. , Solà E.
Published: February 2018

Linked content

This article is linked to Rainier et al paper. To view this article visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.14474.
Letter: mucosal response in discriminating intestinal tuberculosis from Crohn's disease—when to look for it? Authors' reply
Authors: Pratap Mouli V. , Kedia S. , Ahuja V.
Published: February 2018

Linked content

This article is linked to Pratap Mouli et al and Sharma et al papers. To view these articles visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.13840 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.14495.
Editorial: the portal hypertension puzzle—spleen stiffness evades validation as non‐invasive marker of clinically significant portal hypertension
Authors: Thiele M. , Krag A.
Published: February 2018

Linked content

This article is linked to Elkrief et al paper. To view this article visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.14488.
Non‐commercial vs. commercial clinical trials: a retrospective study of the applications submitted to a research ethics committee
Authors: Fuentes Camps Inmaculada , Rodríguez Alexis , Agustí Antonia
Published: February 2018

There are many difficulties in undertaking independent clinical research without support from the pharmaceutical industry. In this retrospective observational study, some design characteristics, the clinical trial public register and the publication rate of noncommercial clinical trials were compared to those of commercial clinical trials. A total of 809 applications of drug‐evaluation clinical trials were submitted from May 2004 to May 2009 to the research ethics committee of a tertiary hospital, and 16.3% of trials were noncommercial. They were mainly phase IV, multicentre national, and unmasked controlled trials, compared to the commercial trials that were mainly phase II or III, multicentre international, and double‐blind masked trials. The commercial trials were registered and published more often than noncommercial trials. More funding for noncommercial research is still needed. The results of the research, commercial or noncommercial, should be disseminated in order not to compromise either its scientific or its social value.
Aucubin protects against pressure overload‐induced cardiac remodelling via the β3‐adrenoceptor–neuronal NOS cascades
Authors: Wu Qing‐Qing , Xiao Yang , Duan Ming‐Xia , Yuan Yuan , Jiang Xiao‐Han , Yang Zheng , Liao Hai‐Han , Deng Wei , Tang Qi‐Zhu
Published: February 2018

Background and Purpose

Aucubin, the predominant component of Eucommia ulmoides Oliv., has been shown to have profound effects on oxidative stress. As oxidative stress has previously been demonstrated to contribute to acute and chronic myocardial injury, we tested the effects of aucubin on cardiac remodelling and heart failure.

Experimental Approach

Initially, H9c2 cardiomyocytes and neonatal rat cardiomyocytes pretreated with aucubin (1, 3, 10, 25 and 50 μM) were challenged with phenylephrine. Secondly, the transverse aorta was constricted in C57/B6 and neuronal NOS (nNOS)‐knockout mice, then aucubin (1 or 5 mg·kg−1 body weight day−1) was injected i.p. for 25 days. Hypertrophy was evaluated by assessing morphological changes, echocardiographic parameters, histological analyses and hypertrophic markers. Oxidative stress was evaluated by examining ROS generation, oxidase activity and NO generation. NOS expression was determined by Western blotting.

Key Results

Aucubin effectively suppressed cardiac remodelling; in mice, aucubin substantially inhibited pressure overload‐induced cardiac hypertrophy, fibrosis and inflammation, whereas knocking out nNOS abolished these cardioprotective effects of aucubin. Blocking or knocking down the β3‐adrenoceptor abolished the protective effects of aucubin in vitro. Furthermore, aucubin enhanced the protective effects of a β3‐adrenoceptor agonist in vitro by increasing cellular cAMP levels, whereas treatment with an adenylate cyclase (AC) inhibitor abolished the cardioprotective effects of aucubin.

Conclusions and Implications

Aucubin suppresses oxidative stress during cardiac remodelling by increasing the expression of nNOS in a process that requires activation of the β3‐adrenoceptor/AC/cAMP pathway. These findings suggest that aucubin could have potential as a treatment for cardiac remodelling and heart failure.
Translocality, Network Structure, and Music Worlds: Underground Metal in the United Kingdom
Authors: Emms Rachel , Crossley Nick
Published: February 2018

Translocal music worlds are often defined as networks of local music worlds. However, their networked character and more especially their network structure is generally assumed rather than concretely mapped and explored. Formal social network analysis (SNA) is beginning to attract interest in music sociology but it has not previously been used to explore a translocal music world. In this paper, drawing upon a survey of the participation of 474 enthusiasts in 148 live music events, spread across 6 localities, we use SNA to explore a significant “slice” of the network structure of the U.K.'s translocal underground heavy metal world. Translocality is generated in a number of ways, we suggest, but one way, the way we focus upon, involves audiences traveling between localities to attend gigs and festivals. Our analysis of this network uncovers a core‐periphery structure which, we further find, maps onto locality. Not all live events enjoy equal standing in our music world and some localities are better placed to capture more prestigious events, encouraging inward travel. The identification of such structures, and the inequality they point to, is, we believe, one of several benefits of using SNA to analyze translocal music worlds.
Local extinctions of obligate frugivores and patch size reduction disrupt the structure of seed dispersal networks
Authors: de Assis Bomfim Jamille , Guimarães Paulo R , Peres Carlos A. , Carvalho Gustavo , Cazetta Eliana
Published: February 2018

A central problem in ecology is to understand how human impacts affect plant–animal interactions that lead to effective seed dispersal services for plant communities. Seed dispersal services are the outcome of plant–frugivore interactions that often form local networks of interacting species. Recent work has shown that some frugivorous bird species are more critical to network organization than others. Here, we explore how patch size and the potential local extinctions of obligate frugivorous birds affect the reorganization of seed dispersal networks. We examined the structure of 20 empirical seed dispersal networks documented across tropical avian assemblages occupying widely variable habitat patch sizes, a surrogate of the amount of remaining habitat. Networks within small forest patches consistently supported both lower plant and bird species richness. Forest patch size was positively associated with nestedness, indicating that reductions in patch size disrupted the nested organization of seed dispersal networks. Obligate frugivores, especially large‐bodied species, were almost entirely absent from small forest patches. Analysis at the species level showed that obligate frugivores formed the core of interacting species, connecting species within a given seed dispersal network. Our combined results revealed that patch size reduction erodes frugivorous bird diversity, thereby affecting the integrity of seed dispersal networks. We highlight the importance of conserving large forest patches to maintain tropical forest functionality.
Going through the motions: incorporating movement analyses into disease research
Authors: Dougherty Eric R. , Seidel Dana P. , Carlson Colin J. , Spiegel Orr , Getz Wayne M.
Published: February 2018

Though epidemiology dates back to the 1700s, most mathematical representations of epidemics still use transmission rates averaged at the population scale, especially for wildlife diseases. In simplifying the contact process, we ignore the heterogeneities in host movements that complicate the real world, and overlook their impact on spatiotemporal patterns of disease burden. Movement ecology offers a set of tools that help unpack the transmission process, letting researchers more accurately model how animals within a population interact and spread pathogens. Analytical techniques from this growing field can also help expose the reverse process: how infection impacts movement behaviours, and therefore other ecological processes like feeding, reproduction, and dispersal. Here, we synthesise the contributions of movement ecology in disease research, with a particular focus on studies that have successfully used movement‐based methods to quantify individual heterogeneity in exposure and transmission risk. Throughout, we highlight the rapid growth of both disease and movement ecology and comment on promising but unexplored avenues for research at their overlap. Ultimately, we suggest, including movement empowers ecologists to pose new questions, expanding our understanding of host–pathogen dynamics and improving our predictive capacity for wildlife and even human diseases.
Environmental and spatial filters of zooplankton metacommunities in shallow pools in high‐elevation peatlands in the tropical Andes
Authors: Quenta Herrera Estefania , Jacobsen Dean , Casas Jérôme , Dangles Olivier
Published: February 2018

Understanding metacommunity organisation in freshwater ecosystems is particularly important at high elevation in the tropical Andes, as this region is considered an important biodiversity hotspot with many endemic species threatened by climate change. High levels of dispersal at the regional scale and strong environmental filters at the local scale are thought to structure aquatic communities in these systems. However, metacommunity organisation patterns at the limit of aquatic life (>4,500 m a.s.l.) remain largely unknown. Given the extreme environmental conditions experienced by organisms at high elevation, environment filters would be expected to play a greater role than spatial filters in community assemblages.

We assessed the effects of environmental and spatial filters on zooplankton (Cladocera), to gain insight into metacommunity organisation in the shallow high‐elevation pools of the tropical Andes. We sampled zooplankton communities and assessed nine environmental variables, for 200 pools from 20 peatlands in the Cordillera Real of Bolivia. We performed redundancy and variation partitioning analyses on both abundance and presence/absence data, to evaluate the contribution of environmental and spatial processes (geographic and elevation distances) to cladoceran metacommunity assembly at different spatial scales.

We identified 18 cladoceran species, eight of which were endemic to the Andes. We found that both environment and spatial filters made a significant contribution to the structuring of cladoceran communities at higher spatial scales (i.e. intervalleys and within valleys), whereas only the environmental filter operated at small spatial scales (i.e. within peatlands). Elevation had a significant effect on cladoceran community variation (e.g. 6.9% within valleys, for abundance data), but not on species diversity. Similar patterns were obtained with presence/absence data. Macrophyte cover, pool area and pH were the most important variables explaining community variation and the species diversity of cladocerans at pool level. These results suggest that species sorting is probably the main process generating variation in cladoceran communities at all spatial scales. At larger spatial scales (intervalleys and within valleys), limited dispersal may also filter species composition.

We identified factors significantly contributing to the variation observed, but their overall explanatory power was low. This finding highlights the difficulties involved in evaluating the response of aquatic organisms to their environment and suggests that other environmental variables should be considered. Moreover, frequent and unpredictable disturbances and high stochasticity probably operate simultaneously with environmental filters to structure zooplankton organisation in these unique and harsh aquatic systems.
Shifts in mollusc traits following floodplain reconnection: Testing the response of functional diversity components
Authors: Rumm Andrea , Foeckler Francis , Dziock Frank , Ilg Christiane , Scholz Mathias , Harris Rebecca M. B. , Gerisch Michael
Published: February 2018

Restoration of ecosystems can mitigate the global loss of biodiversity and provide essential ecological functions and services. Although trait composition and functional diversity (FD) are important tools in assessing recovery processes, very few restoration projects use them to evaluate restoration success. Consequently, little is known about trait and FD trajectories following restoration measures.

Here, we tested the effect of dyke‐slotting to reconnect a floodplain on the trait response of mollusc communities over 6 years, based on a random stratified sampling design (plots within areas) with before and after control impact. Trait characteristics included flood resistance, drought resistance and resilience from which community‐weighted mean trait values were derived. FD and its components (alpha, beta, gamma) were calculated with Rao's quadratic entropy.

Flood duration in the restored area increased from 4–13 to 6–17 weeks/year after reconnection, similarly to the reference area (4–10 to 6–14 weeks). Hence, the re‐connection by dyke‐slotting had no substantial effect on flood duration (due to seepage water).

Despite that, dyke‐slotting triggered weak but significant shifts in the trait compositions of the restored floodplain mollusc communities. Traits reflecting species’ resilience, crushing resistance and drought resistance increased in abundance, while traits characteristically found in more stable habitats decreased (e.g. cross‐fertilisation, diet specialisation). Overall, trait composition of the restored area progressively moved to that found in the active floodplain.

While there were some significant temporal changes in FD within areas (reference, restored), there were no significant effects of dyke‐slotting on any of the FD indices.

The incorporation of spatiotemporal dynamics of FD and trait composition may facilitate the evaluation of restoration trajectories, especially when different components (hierarchical FD configuration, single trait distributions) are considered together. Such complementary approaches could be integrated in future restoration monitoring programs.
Are diel vertical migrations of European perch (Perca fluviatilis L.) early juveniles under direct control of light intensity? Evidence from a large field experiment
Authors: Sajdlová Zuzana , Frouzová Jaroslava , Draštík Vladislav , Jůza Tomáš , Peterka Jiří , Prchalová Marie , Říha Milan , Vašek Mojmír , Kubečka Jan , Čech Martin
Published: February 2018

Diel vertical migrations (DVMs) belong among the most pronounced movements in the aquatic environment. A general pattern of DVMs has been well described, particularly in European perch (Perca fluviatilis), but whether the migrations are directly controlled by light and what is the ultimate cause of the diel vertical shifts, remains poorly understood.

Undertaking a large‐scale field experiment in a thermally stratified, canyon‐shaped reservoir, we demonstrated for the first time that DVMs of a bathypelagic early juveniles community, dominated by European perch larvae and juveniles prior the metamorphosis, were under direct control of the light intensity; that is, they did not operate as a genetically fixed behaviour.

Prior to the experiment, the depth distribution of the bathypelagic perch early juveniles was strongly correlated with the light intensity on the water surface (p < .001). The community underwent regular DVMs between the epilimnion (depth <2.0 m) and hypolimnion (depth >3.0 m) reaching a maximum amplitude of 13 m.

Hydroacoustic recordings by the echosounder SIMRAD EK 60 (120 and 400 kHz) showed that during the experiment, when the surface was covered with a large black non‐transparent foil (2500 m2; simulated conditions of complete and constant darkness), the regular vertical movement of the bathypelagic perch early juveniles was interrupted and the community occupied the epilimnion constantly for 24 hr.

Immediately after the foil was removed at midday, the bathypelagic perch early juveniles were exposed to a steep increase in light intensity (from <1 LUX to >100 × 103 LUX) and they escaped into the hypolimnion where they were safe from visual predation which took place in the bright surface layers (epilimnion particularly). Our findings imply that occupying a deep, dark refuge in the daytime is essential for the survival of perch in their early life stage.
Free dialysis in Nepal: Logistical challenges explored
Authors: Mcgee John , Pandey Bimal , Maskey Abhishek , Frazer Tifany , Mackinney Theodore
Published: February 2018

Nepal's Ministry of Health began offering free lifetime hemodialysis (HD) in 2016. There has been a large growth in renal replacement therapy (RRT) services offered in Nepal since 2010, when the last known data on the subject was published. In 2016, 42 HD centers existed (223% increase since 2010) serving 1975 end stage renal disease patients (303% increase since 2010); 36 nephrologists were registered (200% increase since 2010), 12 were trained in transplantation, and 790 transplants had been performed to date. We estimate the incidence of end stage renal disease to be 2900 patients (100 per million population). With an annual cost of approximately US$2300 per dialysis patient, offering free dialysis could potentially cost the government US$6.7 million per year, suggesting that 2.1% of the annual health budget would be allocated to 0.01% of the population. The geographic zone surrounding the capital city, Kathmandu, contains 50% of HD centers, but only 14.5% of Nepal's population. Forty‐eight percent of the population lives within zones without HD service, therefore infrastructure challenges exist in providing equitable access to RRT. The aim of this article is to summarize the current statistics of RRT in Nepal.
Predicted MHC peptide binding promiscuity explains MHC class I ‘hotspots’ of antigen presentation defined by mass spectrometry eluted ligand data
Authors: Jappe Emma Christine , Kringelum Jens , Trolle Thomas , Nielsen Morten
Published: February 2018

Peptides that bind to and are presented by MHC class I and class II molecules collectively make up the immunopeptidome. In the context of vaccine development, an understanding of the immunopeptidome is essential, and much effort has been dedicated to its accurate and cost‐effective identification. Current state‐of‐the‐art methods mainly comprise in silico tools for predicting MHC binding, which is strongly correlated with peptide immunogenicity. However, only a small proportion of the peptides that bind to MHC molecules are, in fact, immunogenic, and substantial work has been dedicated to uncovering additional determinants of peptide immunogenicity. In this context, and in light of recent advancements in mass spectrometry (MS), the existence of immunological hotspots has been given new life, inciting the hypothesis that hotspots are associated with MHC class I peptide immunogenicity. We here introduce a precise terminology for defining these hotspots and carry out a systematic analysis of MS and in silico predicted hotspots. We find that hotspots defined from MS data are largely captured by peptide binding predictions, enabling their replication in silico. This leads us to conclude that hotspots, to a great degree, are simply a result of promiscuous HLA binding, which disproves the hypothesis that the identification of hotspots provides novel information in the context of immunogenic peptide prediction. Furthermore, our analyses demonstrate that the signal of ligand processing, although present in the MS data, has very low predictive power to discriminate between MS and in silico defined hotspots.
Interwoven histories: Mental health nurses with experience of mental illness, qualitative findings from a mixed methods study
Authors: Oates Jennifer , Drey Nicholas , Jones Julia
Published: February 2018

The effects of mental health nurses’ own experience of mental illness or being a carer have rarely been researched beyond the workplace setting. This study aimed to explore how the experience of mental illness affects mental health nurses’ lives outside of and inside work. A sample of 26 mental health nurses with personal experience of mental illness took part in semistructured interviews. Data were analysed thematically using a six‐phase approach. The analysis revealed the broad context of nurses’ experiences of mental illness according to three interwoven themes: mental illness as part of family life; experience of accessing services; and life interwoven with mental illness. Participants typically described personal and familial experience of mental illness across their life course, with multiple causes and consequences. The findings suggest that nurses’ lives outside of work should be taken into account when considering the impact of their personal experience of mental illness. Similarly being a nurse influences how mental illness is experienced. Treatment of nurses with mental illness should account for their nursing expertise whilst recognizing that the context for nurses’ mental illness could be much broader than the effect of workplace stress.
A systematic review of clinical supervision evaluation studies in nursing
Authors: Cutcliffe John R. , Sloan Graham , Bashaw Marie
Published: February 2018

According to the international, extant literature published during the last 20 years or so, clinical supervision (CS) in nursing is now a reasonably common phenomenon. Nevertheless, what appears to be noticeably ‘thin on the ground’ in this body of literature are empirical evaluations of CS, especially those pertaining to client outcomes. Accordingly, the authors undertook a systematic review of empirical evaluations of CS in nursing to determine the state of the science. Adopting the approach documented by Stroup et al. (JAMA, 283, 2000, 2008), the authors searched for reports of evaluation studies of CS in nursing – published during the years 1995 to 2015. Keywords for the search were ‘clinical supervision’, ‘evaluation’, ‘efficacy’, ‘nursing’, and combinations of these keywords. Electronic databases used were CINAHL, MEDLINE, PsychLIT, and the British Nursing Index. The research evidence from twenty‐eight (28) studies reviewed is presented, outlining the main findings with an overview of each study presented. The following broad themes were identified and are each discussed in the study: narrative/anecdotal accounts of positive outcomes for clinical supervision, narrative/anecdotal accounts of negative outcomes for clinical supervision, empirical positive outcomes reported by supervisee, and empirical findings showing no effect by supervisee.
Recovery without autonomy: Progress forward or more of the same for mental health service users?
Authors: Byrne Louise , Schoeppe Stephanie , Bradshaw Julie
Published: February 2018

In Western nations, the Recovery approach has become a widely accepted philosophy and treatment concept in mental health. Yet, community understanding of the Recovery approach remains largely unexplored. This study aimed to investigate (i) people's awareness of the principles underpinning the Recovery approach in mental health, and (ii) the treatment approaches people consider most important, and whether these align with the Recovery approach. To achieve these aims, a random sample of 1217 Australian adults participated in the National Social Survey (QSS) via telephone interview. People's experience with mental health services, the importance they place on various treatment approaches, and their awareness of principles underpinning the Recovery approach were assessed. Analyses were conducted using descriptive statistics. Most participants (94%) agreed that ‘regardless of the severity of symptoms experienced and/or the mental illness diagnosis, being diagnosed with a mental illness means there is always hope for a meaningful life’. Moreover, most participants considered treatments in line with the Recovery approach as important. However, few participants (35%) agreed with the principle that ‘after diagnosis, the person themselves should direct the long‐term management of their mental illness, rather than a medical professional’. Australian people were to some extent aware of the principles underpinning the Recovery Approach, particularly with regard to hope, ability to live a meaningful life, and the importance of support from family, friends, and others living with mental illness. Nonetheless, autonomy was not highly prioritized, with the prevailing view that management of mental illness should be directed by the medical profession.
Systematic review of the use of Statistical Process Control methods to measure the success of pressure ulcer prevention
Authors: Clark Michael , Young Trudie , Fallon Maureen
Published: February 2018

Successful prevention of pressure ulcers is the end product of a complex series of care processes including, but not limited to, the assessment of vulnerability to pressure damage; skin assessment and care; nutritional support; repositioning; and the use of beds, mattresses, and cushions to manage mechanical loads on the skin and soft tissues. The purpose of this review was to examine where and how Statistical Process Control (SPC) measures have been used to assess the success of quality improvement initiatives intended to improve pressure ulcer prevention. A search of 7 electronic bibliographic databases was performed on May 17th, 2017, for studies that met the inclusion criteria. SPC methods have been reported in 9 publications since 2010 to interpret changes in the incidence of pressure ulcers over time. While these methods offer rapid interpretation of changes in incidence than is gained from a comparison of 2 arbitrarily selected time points pre‐ and post‐implementation of change, more work is required to ensure that the clinical and scientific communities adopt the most appropriate SPC methods.
Correlates of complete brood failure in blue tits: could extra‐pair mating provide unexplored benefits to females?
Authors: Mennerat Adèle , Charmantier Anne , Jørgensen Christian , Eliassen Sigrunn
Published: February 2018

Behavioural ecologists have for decades investigated the adaptive value of extra‐pair copulation (EPC) for females of socially monogamous species. Despite extensive effort testing for genetic benefits, there now seems to be a consensus that the so‐called ‘good genes’ effects are at most weak. In parallel the search for direct benefits has mostly focused on the period surrounding egg laying, thus neglecting potential correlates of EPC that might be expressed at later stages in the breeding cycle. Here we used Bayesian methods to analyse data collected over four years in a population of blue titsCyanistes caeruleus, where no support was previously found for ‘good genes’ effects. We found that broods with mixed paternity experienced less brood failure at the nestling stage than broods with single paternity, and that females having experienced complete brood failure in their previous breeding attempt had higher rates of mixed paternity than either yearling or previously successful females. To better understand these observations we also explored relationships between extra‐pair mating, male and female phenotype, and local breeding density. We found that in almost all cases the sires of extra‐pair offspring were close neighbours, and that within those close neighbourhoods extra‐pair sires were older than other males not siring extra‐pair offspring. Also, females did not display consistent EPC status across years. Taken together our results suggest that multiple mating might be a flexible female behaviour influenced by previous breeding experience, and motivate further experimental tests of causal links between extra‐pair copulation and predation.
Catheter ablation of ventricular arrhythmias with QRS morphology resembling that of aortic sinus cusp arrhythmias: Significance of mapping the left pulmonary sinus cusp
Authors: Liang Zhuo , Wang Yunlong , Zhang Tao , Han Zhihong , Dong Jianzeng , Ren Xuejun
Published: February 2018

Background

There is a close anatomical relationship between aortic sinus cusp (ASC) and the left pulmonary sinus cusp (LPSC).

Purpose

The study was to investigate the significance of mapping and ablation of LPSC for ventricular arrhythmias (VAs) with QRS morphology resembling that of ASC arrhythmias.

Methods

In 33 consecutive patients undergoing successful catheter ablation of idiopathic VAs with ASC arrhythmia‐like QRS morphology, LPSC was mapped carefully.

Results

Among the 33 patients studied, QRS morphology resembled that of arrhythmias of either right or left coronary cusp (LCC or RCC) origin in 17 and 16 patients, respectively. Out of 12 arrhythmias with the earliest potential in LCC during left‐sided mapping, an earlier potential in LPSC than in LCC was recorded in 2 arrhythmias, the same earliest potential in LPSC as in LCC was recorded in 6 arrhythmias, and 5 (42%) were finally ablated successfully in LPSC using the reversed U curve. Out of 16 arrhythmias with the earliest potential in the RCC during left‐sided mapping, an earlier potential in LPSC than in RCC was recorded in 4 arrhythmias, the same earliest potential in LPSC as in RCC was recorded in 3 arrhythmias, and 4 (25%) were finally ablated successfully in LPSC using the reversed U curve.

Conclusions

For VAs with ASC arrhythmia‐like QRS morphology, mapping in LPSC could have unique electrophysiologic characteristics, and some of them could be eliminated in LPSC using reversed U curve.
Human milk AFM1, OTA, and DON evaluation by liquid chromatography tandem mass specrometry and their relation to the Southern Brazil nursing mothers' diet
Authors: Tonon Karina Merini , Reiter Mercedes Gabriela Ratto , Savi Geovana Dagostim , Scussel Vildes Maria
Published: February 2018

The occurrence of aflatoxin M1(AFM1), ochratoxin A (OTA), and deoxynivalenol (DON) in human milk and their correlation to the lactating donors dietary habits from Southern Brazil were investigated. Milk samples were collected from 86 nursing mothers who were also interviewed through a Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ). The occurrence of AFM1, OTA, and DON in the human milk samples was evaluated by liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC‐MS/MS) and correlated with the FFQ data. The analysis of the FFQs revealed a high intake of foods susceptible to mycotoxin contamination, such as wheat flour and its derivatives, bovine milk, and coffee which had habitual consumption reported by 71, 50, and 43% of the participants, respectively. AFM1, OTA, and DON were not detected in any sample of human milk, even though the results obtained by LC‐MS/MS suggest a possible occurrence of DON in four samples (>LOD: 2.5 ng/mL; <LOQ: 5 ng/mL).

Practical applications

These findings might be valuable for food safety of human milk, showing that besides well‐known benefits breastfeeding do not present undesirable contaminants. However, it is important emphasize that the monitoring food need to be performed constantly to ensure the milk quality and consumer safety and, in addition, the data obtained should be according to regulation.
Resource Use During the Last 6 Months of Life of Individuals Dying with and of Alzheimer's Disease
Authors: Faes Kristof , Cohen Joachim , Annemans Lieven
Published: February 2018

Objectives

To compare resource use during the last 6 months of life of individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease (AD) but for whom AD was not formally identified as the underlying cause of death (dying with AD) with that of those who had AD as underlying cause of death (dying of AD).

Design

Full‐population retrospective analysis.

Setting

Belgium.

Participants

All Belgian decedents in 2012.

Measurements

We linked participants' healthcare, population, and death certificate data. Those who died of AD were selected based on underlying cause of death. Those who died with AD were selected using a validated algorithm.

Results

Individuals who died of AD had less hospital use than those who died with AD; were less often admitted to a palliative care unit but received palliative home care services slightly more often; and had use of physiotherapy, noninvasive ventilation, medical imaging, sedatives, oxygen, and opioids comparable with that of those who died with AD.

Conclusion

During the last 6 months of life, individuals dying of AD used fewer intensive resources such as intensive care unit, cardiopulmonary resuscitation, and invasive ventilation than those dying with AD, which suggests the effect of recognition of an end‐of‐life phase. Overall, individuals with AD rarely used palliative care services, suggesting a need for more efforts to encourage use of palliative care in individuals with AD.
25‐OH‐vitamin D, parathyroid hormone, and calcium serum levels in captive common marmosets (Callithrix jacchus): Reference values and effect of age, sex, season, and closure of long bone epiphyses
Authors: Bosseler Leslie , Bakker Jaco , Duchateau Luc , Remarque Ed , Langermans Jan A.M. , Cornillie Pieter , Chiers Koen
Published: February 2018

Background

To date, reference values for 25‐OH‐vitamin D, parathyroid hormone (PTH), and calcium in serum of common marmosets (Callithrix jacchus) based on a large sample size are not available.

Methods

Serum reference values for these parameters were determined and correlated with sex, age, season of sampling, and time of long bone epiphyseal closure in captive‐housed marmosets.

Results and Conclusions

The 90% reference range for serum 25‐OH‐vitamin D is 47.40‐370.4 nmol/L, for PTH 2.10‐30.51 pmol/L, and for calcium 2.08‐2.63 mmol/L. Lower levels of vitamin D were measured in fall compared with the other seasons. Levels of PTH were higher in males than in females, and calcium levels were lower in younger animals compared with older marmosets. No other effects of age, sex, season, or timing of growth plate closure were found.
Characterization of ectopic myelinated nerve fibers in the retina of a cynomolgus monkey (Macaca fascicularis)
Authors: Shirai Norimitsu , Evans Mark G.
Published: February 2018

We report histopathology of retinal myelination discovered in a cynomolgus monkey. It consisted of a uniform population of spindle cells arranged in fascicles within the retina at the optic disk. The present case is remarkable in that there is a paucity of reports describing myelinated retinal nerve fibers in monkeys.
Hospital nurses’ lived experiences of intelligent resilience: A phenomenological study
Authors: Imani Behzad , Kermanshahi Sima Mohamad Khan , Vanaki Zohreh , Kazemnejad Lili Anoshiravan
Published: February 2018

Aim and objectives

To explore Iranian hospital nurses’ lived experiences of intelligent resilience.

Background

Nurses do high levels of emotional work when fulfilling patients’ and their family members’ complex needs. Intelligent resilience can alleviate nurses’ stress and enhance their endurance.

Design

This study was based on the Husserlian descriptive phenomenology.

Methods

A purposive sample of ten hospital nurses was drawn from hospitals affiliated with Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran. In‐depth semi‐structured interviews were held to collect data. The seven‐step data analysis approach proposed by Colaizzi was used for the data analysis. In this study, the adherence to consolidated criteria for reporting qualitative guidelines has been followed.

Results

The participating hospital nurses’ lived experiences of intelligent resilience came into four main themes of patience and wisdom, reverence, situational self‐control and appealing to religiosity. Each of the four main themes included two subthemes which were having peace and wise quietness, reverence for the patients, physicians and nurses, distancing themselves from stressful situations and displacing staff who cause stress, and the nurse's trust in God as well as the patient and his family`s trust in God, respectively.

Conclusion

Nurses with intelligent resilience are able to bring peace, reverence for others and situational self‐control to stressors thereby providing higher quality of care to their patients.

Relevance to clinical practice

Nurses work in unstable and stressful conditions. The findings of this study provide better understanding about the concept of nurses’ intelligent resilience and its indicators and attributes.
Prepared for surgery – Communication in nurses' preoperative consultations with patients undergoing surgery for colorectal cancer after a person‐centred intervention
Authors: Pettersson Monica E , Öhlén Joakim , Friberg Febe , Hydén Lars‐Christer , Wallengren Catarina , Sarenmalm Elisabeth Kenne , Carlsson Eva
Published: February 2018

Aims and objectives

To describe preoperative communication after a person‐centred intervention in nurses' consultations with patients undergoing surgery for colorectal cancer.

Background

Patients all over the world scheduled for surgery are referred to preoperative consultations with healthcare professionals. The goal is to assess the risk of perioperative complications, improving quality of care and enabling patients to be prepared for surgery and recovery. A person‐centred intervention was developed, which consisted of an interactive written patient education material and person‐centred communication.

Design

An explorative quantitative and qualitative study based on 18 audio‐taped transcriptions.

Methods

Eighteen patients preoperative nursing consultations at three Swedish hospitals were analysed quantitatively regarding structure: words, time, phases, questions, discursive space, and qualitatively: topics and how the person‐centred communication appeared in the consultations.

Results

The median time for consultations was 27 min (range 13–64 min). The nurses used two‐thirds of the discursive space in the consultations with the patients. The patient education material was used as a support to structure the consultation and discuss sensitive and difficult issues. Seven topics were discussed during the consultation. Two different approaches to communication were identified: Talking with the patient versus Talking to the patient. Talking with the patient (seen as person‐centred communication) was defined as: listening to the narrative and confirming each other, raising difficult topics, seeing each other as persons, building on strengths and resources, preparing for surgery and asking open questions.

Conclusion

Ways of communicating influence how the preoperative consultation develops. Talking with the patient could be seen as person‐centred communication in the preoperative care, and when using this approach, the intervention purpose of person‐centred communication was met.

Relevance to clinical practice

Education in person‐centred communication is important for nurses to improve their skills in performing preoperative consultations.