bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antitumor effects of metformin are a result of inhibiting nuclear factor kappa B nuclear translocation in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Sekino Nobufumi , Kano Masayuki , Matsumoto Yasunori , Sakata Haruhito , Akutsu Yasunori , Hanari Naoyuki , Murakami Kentaro , Toyozumi Takeshi , Takahashi Masahiko , Otsuka Ryota , Yokoyama Masaya , Shiraishi Tadashi , Okada Koichiro , Hoshino Isamu , Iida Keiko , Akimoto Aki Komatsu , Matsubara Hisahiro
Published: February 2018

Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is an intractable digestive organ cancer that has proven difficult to treat despite multidisciplinary therapy, and a new treatment strategy is demanded. Metformin is used for type 2 diabetes mellitus and its antitumor effects have been reported recently. Metformin exerts antitumor effects in various respects, such as inhibiting inflammation, tumor growth and epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT). However, few reports have described the efficacy of metformin on ESCC, and their findings have been controversial. We analyzed the antitumor effects of metformin and clarified its effects on anti‐inflammation, growth suppression and EMT inhibition. Activation of nuclear factor kappa B (NF‐κB), the major transcription factor induced by inflammation, was investigated by immunostaining. We found that localization of NF‐κB in the nucleus was reduced after metformin treatment. This suggests that metformin inhibited the activation of NF‐κB. Metformin inhibited tumor growth and induced apoptosis in ESCC cell lines. Associated with EMT, we examined cell motility by a wound healing assay and the epithelial marker E‐cadherin expression of various ESCC cell lines by western blotting. Metformin inhibited cell motility and induced E‐cadherin expression. In conclusion, metformin showed multiple antitumor effects such as growth suppression, invasion inhibition, and control of EMT by inhibiting NF‐κB localization on ESCC. Further exploration of the marker of treatment efficacy and combination therapy could result in the possibility for novel treatment to use metformin on ESCC.
Cell cycle‐related and expression‐elevated protein in tumor overexpression is associated with proliferation behaviors and poor prognosis in non‐small‐cell lung cancer
Authors: Li Weimiao , Zheng Guoxu , Xia Jinghua , Yang Guang , Sun Jianyong , Wang Xuejiao , Wen Miaomiao , Sun Ying , Zhang Zhipei , Jin Faguang
Published: February 2018

The cell cycle‐related and expression‐elevated protein in tumor (CREPT) is overexpressed in several human malignancies. However, the clinical relevance of CREPT expression and its biological role in non‐small‐cell lung cancer (NSCLC) remains unclear. In this study, we detected the expression of CREPT in both NSCLC tissues and cell lines by immunohistochemistry, Western blot analysis, and RT‐PCR. The correlation between CREPT expression and clinicopathologic features was analyzed in 271 NSCLC patients. The prognostic value of CREPT expression was evaluated by Kaplan–Meier analysis and Cox regression analysis. CREPT was overexpressed in Calu‐1 cell lines by using plasmid vector and its biological function was explored both in vitro and in vivo. We found that CREPT was significantly overexpressed in NSCLC compared with paired adjacent non‐tumor tissues, and the expression level of CREPT was correlated with tumor differentiation, lymph node metastasis, and clinical stage. Kaplan–Meier analysis showed that the recurrence‐free survival and overall survival of high CREPT expression groups were significantly shorter than those of the low CREPT expression group. Multivariate analysis identified that CREPT might be an independent biomarker for the prediction of NSCLC prognosis. Overexpression of CREPT increased cell proliferation and enhanced the migration and invasion ability of Calu‐1 cells (a human NSCLC cell line with relative low CRPET expression) in vitro. Moreover, CREPT overexpression promoted tumor growth in a nude mice model. These results suggest that CREPT is closely relevant to the proliferation of NSCLC cells and it might be a potential prognostic marker in NSCLC patients.
Abundance of small mammals correlates with their elevational range sizes and elevational distributions in the subtropics
Authors: Wen Zhixin , Wu Yongjie , Cheng Jilong , Cai Tianlong , Du Yuanbao , Ge Deyan , Xia Lin , Yang Qisen
Published: February 2018

The idea that a positive abundance–range size relationship (ARR) is pervasive in nature has been challenged by recent studies focused on montane and island vertebrate assemblages. However, because some of these studies used species’ local abundance and regional or global range size in examining the ARRs, the negative and neutral trends reported are questionable. Here, by relating species’ mean abundance along elevational gradients to elevational range size, we examined the ARRs of non‐flying small mammals on three subtropical mountains of southwest China. We also examined the relationship between mean abundance and elevational range centre (reflecting species’ elevational distribution) on each mountain, and compared the elevational range centre and mean abundance between endemic and non‐endemic species as they may have been subjected to different intensities of historical (e.g. geographical isolation and colonization) and ecological (e.g. ecological specialization) processes. The results show significantly positive relationship between mean abundance and elevational range size on each mountain. We also observed a consistent positive relationship between mean abundance and elevational range centre, probably due to the stronger local specialization of mid‐ and high‐elevation species, lower species richness at higher elevations, and increasing extinction rate of small‐ranged less abundant species towards higher elevations. A novel finding of our study is that endemic species show higher elevational range centres and higher mean abundance than non‐endemic species on each mountain, which is most likely driven by the increasing geographical isolation with elevation and the higher degree of ecological specialization for endemic species. Measuring abundance and range size at the same spatial scale is a key prerequisite to evaluate the ARRs of montane small mammals.
Topical fluoride use: Knowledge, attitudes and practices of undergraduate dental students of three Dental Colleges in South India
Authors: Muralidharan D. , Pocha S. , Paul A.
Published: February 2018

Objectives

For effective utilisation of topical fluorides in caries prevention, dental professionals should have adequate knowledge regarding its appropriate use. The decision regarding preventive treatments like topical fluorides is influenced by knowledge acquired during undergraduate training. The aim of this study was to assess the knowledge, attitudes and practices of undergraduate dental students in the use of topical fluorides.

Methodology

A descriptive cross‐sectional questionnaire study was conducted from June to August 2015 following ethical clearance. Three willing Dental Colleges from 3 states of South India participated. Information regarding the knowledge, attitudes and practices of students in the use of topical fluorides was collected using a validated questionnaire.

Results

Nine hundred and seventy‐two dental students (79.6% females, 20.4% males) participated. Freshers and preclinical batches had poor overall knowledge of fluorides, which did not show substantial improvement by internship. Self‐applied topical fluoride use (fluoridated toothpaste) was seen in more than 90% of interns, and majority had “positive fluoride attitude.” Having knowledge of topical fluorides and positive attitudes to topical fluorides did not result in “good oral self‐care behaviour” nor appropriate clinical use of topical fluorides. Students who used topical fluorides for persons with history of caries had highest odds of brushing twice a day (OR = 2.7, 95% CI = 1.54, 4.12) and a “positive fluoride attitude” (OR = 1.2, 95% CI = 0.21, 1.57).

Conclusion

Dental students showed deficiencies in their knowledge and understanding of topical fluorides. Dental education in India needs emphasis on topical fluorides across all years, with a special focus on caries risk‐based topical fluoride use.
Challenges in the transition to clinical training in dentistry: An ADEE special interest group initial report
Authors: Serrano C. M. , Botelho M. G. , Wesselink P. R. , Vervoorn J. M.
Published: February 2018

Introduction

Curricular integration in higher education has been widely supported in the educational literature. As a result, several health care and specifically dental curricula have evolved from compartmentalised disciplinary training to integrated modalities; however, in many courses, a pre‐clinical‐clinical watershed remains a barrier to integration in dental education. This article introduces a general description of the pre‐clinical‐clinical transition in dentistry according to the outcomes of the discussion held during the first working group session of the “Transition to Clinical Training” Special Interest Group during the 2016 annual meeting of the Association for Dental Education in Europe.

Materials and Methods

An online questionnaire was made available before the meeting to survey the curricular characteristics of the participants’ schools. During the meeting, a working session related to the pre‐clinical‐clinical transition occurred. Conclusions from the discussion are summarised in this article.

Results

Fourteen dental schools from 12 countries participated in the online survey. The included programmes had an average duration of 5.3 years (SD = 0.48), with high school or the local equivalent as the required entrance level for dentistry. The hybrid curriculum was the leading curriculum design (n = 9) followed by competence‐based curricula (n = 3), with patient treatment as the core of clinical training in every included programme.

Conclusion

The pre‐clinical‐clinical transition in dentistry is a recognisable matter in dental education that requires assessment and research to ease the management of a stage with relevant influence on educational outcomes. This article presents an initial framework for further research and educational intervention.
Neuronal oscillations on an ultra‐slow timescale: daily rhythms in electrical activity and gene expression in the mammalian master circadian clockwork
Authors: Belle Mino D. C. , Diekman Casey O.
Published: February 2018

Neuronal oscillations of the brain, such as those observed in the cortices and hippocampi of behaving animals and humans, span across wide frequency bands, from slow delta waves (0.1 Hz) to ultra‐fast ripples (600 Hz). Here, we focus on ultra‐slow neuronal oscillators in the hypothalamic suprachiasmatic nuclei (SCN), the master daily clock that operates on interlocking transcription‐translation feedback loops to produce circadian rhythms in clock gene expression with a period of near 24 h (< 0.001 Hz). This intracellular molecular clock interacts with the cell's membrane through poorly understood mechanisms to drive the daily pattern in the electrical excitability of SCN neurons, exhibiting an up‐state during the day and a down‐state at night. In turn, the membrane activity feeds back to regulate the oscillatory activity of clock gene programs. In this review, we emphasise the circadian processes that drive daily electrical oscillations in SCN neurons, and highlight how mathematical modelling contributes to our increasing understanding of circadian rhythm generation, synchronisation and communication within this hypothalamic region and across other brain circuits.
Antibacterial properties of silver nanoparticles as a root canal irrigant against Enterococcus faecalis biofilm and infected dentinal tubules
Authors: Rodrigues C. T. , de Andrade F. B. , de Vasconcelos L. R. S. M. , Midena R. Z. , Pereira T. C. , Kuga M. C. , Duarte M. A. H. , Bernardineli N.
Published: February 2018

Aim

To evaluate the antimicrobial action of an irrigant containing silver nanoparticles in an aqueous vehicle (AgNp), sodium hypochlorite and chlorhexidine against Enterococcus faecalis biofilm and infected dentinal tubules.

Methodology

Bovine dentine blocks were used for E. faecalis biofilm development for 21 days and irrigated with 94 ppm AgNp solution, 2.5% NaOCl and 2% chlorhexidine for 5, 15 and 30 min. For infection of dentinal tubules with E. faecalis, dentine specimens from bovine incisors were submitted to a contamination protocol over 5 days, with eight centrifugation cycles on every alternate day, and irrigated with the same solutions and time intervals used for the biofilm. The specimens were stained with the Live/Dead technique and evaluated using a confocal laser scanning microscope (CLSM). The bioImage_L software was used for measurement of the total biovolume of biofilm in μm3 and percentage of viable bacteria (green cells) in biofilm and in dentinal tubules found after the irrigation. Statistical analyses were performed using Kruskal–Wallis and Dunn's tests for quantification of viable cells in biofilm, the Friedman test for comparisons of viable bacteria in dentinal tubules in different areas of the root canal and the Mann–Whitney U‐test to compare the action of the irrigants between the two methods (P < 0.05).

Results

The AgNp solution eliminated fewer bacteria, but was able to dissolve more biofilm compared with chlorhexidine (P < 0.05). NaOCl had the greatest antimicrobial activity and biofilm dissolution capacity. AgNp solution had less antimicrobial action in infected dentinal tubules compared with NaOCl (P < 0.05). The AgNp solution after 5 min was more effective in eliminating planktonic bacteria in dentinal tubules than in biofilm, but at 30 min fewer viable bacteria were observed in the biofilm compared with intratubular dentine (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

AgNp irrigant was not as effective against E. faecalis compared to solutions commonly used in root canal treatment. NaOCl is appropriate as an irrigant because it was effective in disrupting biofilm and in eliminating bacteria in biofilms and in dentinal tubules.
Evaluation of the bioactivity of fluoride‐enriched mineral trioxide aggregate on osteoblasts
Authors: Proksch S. , Brossart J. , Vach K. , Hellwig E. , Altenburger M. J. , Karygianni L.
Published: February 2018

Aim

To investigate whether a combination of mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) and fluoride compounds affects bone cells.

Methodology

Mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) discs (ProRoot®, Dentsply Sirona, Ballaigues, Switzerland) with and without the addition of 0.1%, 0.25% and 0.5% sodium fluoride were characterized for their surface roughness by laser scanning microscopy and for the adhesion of human alveolar osteoblasts by scanning electron microscopy. Using eluates from fluoride‐enriched MTA discs, the cell proliferation was measured by monitoring the DNA incorporation of 5‐bromo‐2′‐deoxyuridine. Further, gene expression was evaluated by qPCR arrays, extracellular matrix mineralization was quantified by absorption measurement of Alizarin red stains, and effects were calculated with repeated measures analysis and post hoc P‐value adjustment.

Results

Irrespective of fluoride addition, cell adhesion was similar on MTA discs, of which the surface roughness was comparable. Control osteoblasts had a curvilinear proliferation pattern peaking at d5, which was levelled out by incubation with MTA. The addition of fluoride partly restored the MTA‐related reduction in the cellular proliferation rate in a dose‐dependent manner. At the mRNA level, both fluoride and MTA modulated a number of genes involved in osteogenesis, bone mineral metabolism and extracellular matrix formation. Although MTA significantly impaired extracellular matrix mineralization, the addition of fluoride supported the formation of mineralized nodules in a dose‐dependent manner.

Conclusion

The addition of fluoride modulated the biocompatibility of MTA in terms of supporting bone cell proliferation and hard tissue formation. Hence, fluoride enrichment is a trend‐setting advancement for MTA‐based endodontic therapies.
OUTPUT CONTINGENT SECURITIES AND EFFICIENT INVESTMENT BY FIRMS
Authors: Braido Luis H. B. , Martins‐da‐Rocha V. Filipe
Published: February 2018

We analyze competitive economies with risky investments. Unlike the classic Arrow–Debreu framing, firms and agents cannot contract upon the exogenous states underlying production risks. They can trade equities and any security written on the endogenous aggregate output. This financial structure is rich enough to promote efficient risk sharing among consumers. However, markets are incomplete from the production perspective, and the absence of prices for each primitive state of nature raises the question about the objective of firms. We show that output‐contingent asset prices convey sufficient information to compute the competitive shareholder value that leads to efficient investment by firms.
Ferrochromium slag as a protective coating material against oxidation for caster rolls
Authors: Kucuk Yilmaz , Oge Mecit , Gok Mustafa Sabri , Karaoglanli Abdullah Cahit
Published: February 2018

In this study, ferrochromium (FeCr) slag, which is available as an industrial waste, is proposed as a protective surface coating material particularly for protection of continuous casting rolls against oxidation. FeCr slag was successfully deposited with atmospheric plasma spray (APS) method. Before the coating process, FeCr slag powder prepared in the particle size range of 5‐38 μm, was investigated using conventional characterization methods (XRD, SEM, TGA etc.). Thermal Barrier Coating (TBC) system was used as a basis for deposition processes. Accordingly, NiCoCrAlY (Amdry, −45 + 5 μm) was firstly deposited as metallic bond coat layer onto the surface of AISI 420 substrate, and then FeCr slag layer was deposited as the top coating layer. After the deposition of FeCr slag powder, the resulting coating layer was found to have low porosity with a homogeneous microstructure. The deposited FeCr slag coatings were subjected to isothermal oxidation tests at different temperatures and test durations for determination of their oxidation behavior and upper operating temperature limits. The results obtained from this study indicate that FeCr slag can be considered as an alternative protective coating material for caster rolls which are subjected to high temperatures up to 800°C.
Clinical and molecular features of treatment‐related neuroendocrine prostate cancer
Authors: Akamatsu Shusuke , Inoue Takahiro , Ogawa Osamu , Gleave Martin E
Published: February 2018

Treatment‐related neuroendocrine prostate cancer is a lethal form of prostate cancer that emerges in the later stages of castration‐resistant prostate cancer treatment. Treatment‐related neuroendocrine prostate cancer transdifferentiates from adenocarcinoma as an adaptive response to androgen receptor pathway inhibition. The incidence of treatment‐related neuroendocrine prostate cancer has been rising due to the increasing use of potent androgen receptor pathway inhibitors. Typically, treatment‐related neuroendocrine prostate cancer is characterized by either low or absent androgen receptor expression, small cell carcinoma morphology and expression of neuroendocrine markers. Clinically, it manifests with predominantly visceral or lytic bone metastases, bulky tumor masses, low prostate‐specific antigen levels or a short response duration to androgen deprivation therapy. Furthermore, although the tumor initially responds to platinum‐based chemotherapy, the duration of the response is short. Based on the poor prognosis, it is imperative to identify novel molecular targets for treatment‐related neuroendocrine prostate cancer. Recent advances in genomic and molecular research, supported by novel in vivo models, have identified some of the key molecular characteristics of treatment‐related neuroendocrine prostate cancer. The gain of MYCN and AURKA oncogenes, along with the loss of tumor suppressor genes TP53 and RB1 are key genomic alterations associated with treatment‐related neuroendocrine prostate cancer. Androgen receptor repressed genes, such as BRN2 and PEG10, are also necessary for treatment‐related neuroendocrine prostate cancer. These genetic changes converge on pathways upregulating genes, such as SOX2 and EZH2, that facilitate lineage plasticity and neuroendocrine differentiation. As a result, on potent androgen receptor pathway inhibition, castration‐resistant prostate cancer transdifferentiates to treatment‐related neuroendocrine prostate cancer in a clonally divergent manner. Further understanding of the disease biology is required to develop novel drugs and biomarkers that would help treat this aggressive prostate cancer variant.
Effect of graphite content on properties of B4C‐W2B5 ceramic composites by in situ reaction of B‐Gr‐WC
Authors: Pan Deng , Li Shufeng , Zhang Xin , Pan Bo , Zhou Shengyin , Fu Yabo , Kondoh Katsuyoshi
Published: February 2018

Strip‐shaped W2B5 reinforced B4C ceramic composites were prepared via in situ reaction of boron(B)‐graphite(Gr)‐WC system by powder metallurgy (P/M). In order to study the effect of the graphite content on the properties of the as‐fabricated ceramic composites, the powder mixture of B‐Gr‐WC with various amounts of Gr powder were blended and consolidated by spark plasma sintering (SPS). The sintering parameters were shown as following: sintering pressure was set as 30 MPa; The three‐step sintering temperature was 1100‐1550‐1700°C and the duration time was set as 5‐5‐6 minutes, respectively. In situ formed strip‐shaped W2B5 particles were dispersed homogeneously in B4C matrix, which resulted in a remarkable improvement on the fracture toughness and mechanical properties. Appropriate 5vol% residual Gr in the composite shows positive effect on the mechanical properties which achieved an optimal counter‐balance of fracture toughness and hardness, the relative density was 99.8%, the Vickers hardness can reach 30.2 GPa, and the fracture toughness was 11.9 MPa·m1/2 when the sintering temperature was set at 1700°C.
Sensitive skin in France: a study on prevalence, relationship with age and skin type and impact on quality of life
Authors: Misery L. , Jourdan E. , Huet F. , Brenaut E. , Cadars B. , Virassamynaïk S. , Sayag M. , Taieb C.
Published: February 2018

Background

Many epidemiological studies have been performed, but a potential increase in the prevalence of sensitive skin, its relationship with age and skin type and the impact of sensitive skin on quality of life are still debated.

Objective

To answer these unresolved questions.

Methods

An opinion poll was conducted on a representative French 5000 person sample.

Results

Fifty‐nine per cent of the people declared very sensitive or fairly sensitive skin (together: sensitive skin), and women (66%) declared sensitive skin more frequently than men (51.9%). The results also showed that sensitive skin is more common (more than 60%) in younger people (<35 years old), and there was a decrease in the following age groups. The univariate analysis demonstrated that sensitive skin was more likely to be reported by people with fair skin (OR = 1.83) and by people with an atopic predisposition (OR = 2.51). The risk of sensitive skin is higher for people with dry skin (OR = 6.18 compared with normal skin), but sensitive skin can occur in other skin types (OR = 2.45 for mixed skin and OR = 2.16 for greasy skin). Quality of life was clearly altered in patients with sensitive skin, as assessed by SF‐12 and DLQI.

Conclusion

This large study demonstrates that sensitive skin can alter quality of life and is more common in young people and in women as well as patients with dry skin or fair skin or an atopic predisposition. It also suggests that there is an increase in the prevalence of sensitive skin.
Morphology, Morphogenesis, and Molecular Phylogeny of a New Soil Ciliate, Sterkiella multicirrata sp. nov. (Ciliophora, Hypotrichia) from China
Authors: Li Fengchao , Li Yanbo , Luo Dan , Miao Miao , Shao Chen
Published: February 2018

The morphology and morphogenesis of a new soil hypotrich ciliate, Sterkiella multicirrata sp. nov., was investigated using live observation and protargol staining. The new species is characterised by: body elliptical, 110–180 × 45–75 μm in vivo, an average of 35 adoral membranelles; usually 19 frontoventral‐transverse cirri, consisting of three frontal, five frontoventral, one buccal, four postoral ventral, two pretransverse, and four transverse cirri; four macronuclear nodules, and 2–5 micronuclei. S. multicirrata sp. nov. differs from its congeners mainly in the number of frontoventral‐transverse cirri and macronuclear nodules. Morphogenesis of the new species is similar to its congeners; the primary difference exists in the segmentation of the frontoventral‐transverse cirral anlagen, which is usually generated in a 1:2:3:3:5:5 pattern. Based on the small subunit ribosomal DNA sequence, the phylogenetic position of the new species is discussed.
Experiences of giving and receiving care in traumatic brain injury: An integrative review
Authors: Kivunja Stephen , River Jo , Gullick Janice
Published: February 2018

Aims and objectives

To synthesise the literature on the experiences of giving or receiving care for traumatic brain injury for people with traumatic brain injury, their family members and nurses in hospital and rehabilitation settings.

Background

Traumatic brain injury represents a major source of physical, social and economic burden. In the hospital setting, people with traumatic brain injury feel excluded from decision‐making processes and perceive impatient care. Families describe inadequate information and support for psychological distress. Nurses find the care of people with traumatic brain injury challenging particularly when experiencing heavy workloads. To date, a contemporary synthesis of the literature on people with traumatic brain injury, family and nurse experiences of traumatic brain injury care has not been conducted.

Design

Integrative literature review.

Methods

A systematic search strategy guided by the PRISMA statement was conducted in CINAHL, PubMed, Proquest, EMBASE and Google Scholar. Whittemore and Knafl's (Journal of Advanced Nursing, 52, 2005, 546) integrative review framework guided data reduction, data display, data comparison and conclusion verification.

Results

Across the three participant categories (people with traumatic brain injury/family members/nurses) and sixteen subcategories, six cross‐cutting themes emerged: seeking personhood, navigating challenging behaviour, valuing skills and competence, struggling with changed family responsibilities, maintaining productive partnerships and reflecting on workplace culture.

Conclusions

Traumatic brain injury creates changes in physical, cognitive and emotional function that challenge known ways of being in the world for people. This alters relationship dynamics within families and requires a specific skill set among nurses.

Relevance to clinical practice

Recommendations include the following: (i) formal inclusion of people with traumatic brain injury and families in care planning, (ii) routine risk screening for falls and challenging behaviour to ensure that controls are based on accurate assessment, (iii) formal orientation and training for novice nurses in the management of challenging behaviour, (iv) professional case management to guide access to services and funding and (v) personal skill development to optimise family functioning.
Effects of perioperative warm socks‐wearing in maintaining core body temperature of patients undergoing spinal surgery
Authors: Lee Hui Yeon , Kim Gaeun , Shin Yeonghee
Published: February 2018

Aims and objectives

To investigate whether warming the feet with socks would prevent hypothermia among patients undergoing spinal surgery.

Background

Perioperative hypothermia is a common health problem among spinal surgery patients.

Research design

This study used a quasi‐experimental design.

Methods

Seventy‐two patients were assigned to two groups. The control group (n = 36) received usual care without the warmed socks. The intervention group (n = 36) received usual care plus warmed socks during operation and recovery period. Data were collected during (180 min) and after the surgery (30 min) during the period of 7 February–10 April 2015. Core body temperature, shivering response and subjective thermal comfort of the two groups were compared over time using the repeated‐measures ANOVA.

Results

The oesophageal temperature of the socks‐wearing group was maintained between 36.36–36.45°C during surgery (mean = 36.41 ± 0.03, 95% CI = 36.34–36.47), whereas that of the control was between 35.75–35.97°C (mean = 35.98 ± 0.03, 95% CI = 35.92–36.04). The tympanic temperature in the recovery room of the socks‐wearing group was between 36.28–36.38°C (mean = 36.37 ± 0.04, 95% CI = 36.29–36.45) and that of the control group was 35.90–36.04°C (mean = 35.95 ± 0.04, 95% CI = 35.88–36.05). Shivering response of the intervention group (mean = 0.04 ± 0.08, 95% CI = −0.13 to 0.21) was significantly lower than that of the control group (mean = 0.47 ± 0.08, 95% CI = 0.30–0.64) in the recovery room (F = 4.28, p < .001). As for subjective thermal comfort, the intervention group (mean = 4.86 ± 0.13, 95% CI = 4.62–5.13) was significantly lower than that of the control group (mean = 3.08 ± 0.13, 95% CI = 2.82–3.33) in the recovery room (F = 98.13, p < .001). As for the frequency of pethidine medication, the intervention group was significantly lower than that of the control (χ2 = 5.14, p = .023).

Conclusion

The use of perioperative warmed socks for spinal surgery patients was effective in maintaining perioperative core temperature, preventing shivering and maintaining subjective thermal comfort.

Relevance to clinical practice

Considering cost‐effectiveness of warmed socks, it might be worth trying option for the maintenance of core temperature in spinal surgery patients.
The impact of care practices and health demographics on the prevalence of skin tears and pressure injuries in aged care
Authors: Brimelow Rachel E , Wollin Judy A
Published: February 2018

Aims and objectives

To determine whether differences in care practices and demographics between two long‐term aged care facilities affected the incidence of residents’ skin wounds.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of care plans and clinical outcomes was conducted for a 6‐month period in 2016 at two aged care facilities, N = 39 Home 1 and N = 45 Home 2. Skin tears, pressure injuries and usual care practices and associated health demographics were recorded.

Results

Over the 6‐month period, 84 residents were found to have a total of 206 aged care acquired skin wounds (skin tears, pressure injuries, haematomas, rashes, infections). The frequency of skin tears or total wounds did not differ between the homes. Several factors were identified that influenced the skin wounds. A reduction in skin tears was associated with the use of heel protectors and antiembolic stockings, whilst a diagnosis of vascular dementia was associated with increased prevalence of skin wounds. Pressure injuries were significantly higher at Home 2. Increased use of strategies to moderate‐risk activities, such as tray tables and bed rails, and impaired cognitive function were associated with higher pressure injury prevalence.

Conclusion

A number of care factors and health demographics influenced the rate of skin wounds. A holistic approach to skin management is needed.

Relevance to clinical practice

Practices, such as repositioning and skin hygiene, are well known to reduce the incidence of pressure injuries and skin tears; however, there are other care practices that take place in homes as part of usual care that also impact skin wounds that have been largely ignored. This study highlights those care practices, as well as resident characteristics and comorbidities that may increase the risk of skin wounds, requiring further monitoring/mitigating strategies.
Is Fraud Contagious? Coworker Influence on Misconduct by Financial Advisors
Authors: DIMMOCK STEPHEN G. , GERKEN WILLIAM C. , GRAHAM NATHANIEL P.
Published: February 2018

Using a novel data set of U.S. financial advisors that includes individuals' employment histories and misconduct records, we show that coworkers influence an individual's propensity to commit financial misconduct. We identify coworkers' effect on misconduct using changes in coworkers caused by mergers of financial advisory firms. The tests include merger‐firm fixed effects to exploit the variation in changes to coworkers across branches of the same firm. The probability of an advisor committing misconduct increases if his new coworkers, encountered in the merger, have a history of misconduct. This effect is stronger between demographically similar coworkers.
Host genetic factors associated with hepatocellular carcinoma in patients with hepatitis C virus infection: A systematic review
Authors: Walker A. J. , Peacock C. J. , Pedergnana V. ,   STOP‐HCV Consortium, Irving W. L.
Published: February 2018

Hepatitis C virus (HCV)‐infected patients are at risk of developing hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Individuals at heightened risk could be targeted by intensive follow‐up surveillance. We have conducted a systematic review of the literature to identify host genetic predisposition to HCC in HCV‐infected patients. A comprehensive search of Medline and Embase databases was performed, and the strength of evidence of associations for each gene on development of HCC was evaluated. We identified 166 relevant studies, relating to 137 different genes, or combinations thereof. Seventeen genes were classified as having “good” evidence of an association, a significant association was observed for 37 genes but this finding had not yet been replicated, 56 genes had mixed or limited evidence of an association, and 27 genes showed no association. IFNL3/4, TNF‐α and PNPLA3 genes had the most evidence of an association. There was, however, considerable heterogeneity in study design and data quality. In conclusion, we identified a number of genes with evidence of association with HCC, but also a need for more standardized approaches to address this clinically critical question. It is important to consider the underlying mechanism of these relationships and which are confounded by the presence of other HCC risk factors and response to therapy. We also identified many genes where the evidence of association is contradictory or requires replication, as well as a number where associations have been studied but no evidence found. These findings should help to direct future studies on host genetic predisposition to HCC in HCV‐infected patients.
Differential virus‐specific CD8+ T‐cell epitope repertoire in hepatitis C virus genotype 1 versus 4
Authors: Luxenburger Hendrik , Graß Franziska , Baermann Janina , Boettler Tobias , Marget Matthias , Emmerich Florian , Panning Marcus , Thimme Robert , Nitschke Katja , Neumann‐Haefelin Christoph
Published: February 2018

Virus‐specific CD8+ T‐cell responses play an important role in the outcome of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. To date, most HCV‐specific CD8+ T‐cell epitopes have been defined in HCV genotype 1 infection. In contrast, the HCV genotype 4‐specific CD8+ T‐cell response is poorly defined. Here, we analysed whether known HCV‐specific CD8+ T‐cell epitopes are also recognized in HCV genotype 4‐infected patients and set out to identify the first HCV genotype 4‐specific CD8+ T‐cell epitopes. We studied patients chronically infected with HCV genotype 1 (n = 20) or 4 (n = 21) using 91 well‐described HCV‐specific epitope peptides. In addition, we analysed 24 genotype 4‐infected patients using 40 epitope candidates predicted using an in silico approach. HCV‐specific CD8+ T‐cell responses targeting previously described epitopes were detectable in the majority of genotype 1‐infected patients (11 of 20). In contrast, patients infected with HCV genotype 4 rarely targeted these epitopes (4 of 21; P = .0247). Importantly, we were able to identify eight novel HCV genotype 4‐specific CD8+ T‐cell epitopes. Only one of these epitopes was shared between genotype 1 and genotype 4. These results indicate that there is little overlap between CD8+ T‐cell repertoires targeting HCV genotype 1 and 4. Prophylactic vaccination studies based on HCV genotype 1 are currently underway. However, in countries with the highest prevalence of HCV infection, such as Egypt, most patients are infected with HCV genotype 4. Thus, prophylactic vaccination strategies need to be adapted to HCV genotype 4 before their application to regions where HCV genotype 4 is endemic.
Functional diversity differently shapes growth resilience to drought for co‐existing pine species
Authors: Granda Elena , Gazol Antonio , Camarero Jesús Julio
Published: February 2018

Questions

What are the differences in tree growth and resilience in response to extreme droughts between three co‐existing pine tree species? Are growth–resilience components more influenced by intrinsic (age, tree height) or extrinsic factors (mass effects or functional diversity of the neighbourhood)? Is the tree's vulnerability to drought buffered by the functional diversity of the surrounding plant community?

Location

Mediterranean forest, northeast Spain.

Methods

Trees from three co‐existing pine species with different drought tolerances (Aleppo pine – Pinus halepensis Mill.; Black pine – Pinus nigra subsp. salzmannii (Dunal) Franco; Scots pine – Pinus sylvestris L.) were sampled. The average age of the studed pines was ~30 years. Radial growth from 1980 to 2015 was measured and the pines’ responses to the most severe recent droughts (2005 and 2012) were studied by relating different growth resilience components (Rt, resistance; Rc, recovery; RRs, relative resilience) with intrinsic (age and height) and extrinsic factors of the neighbouring community around each tree. The considered extrinsic factors were CWM and niche complementarity of tree (height), leaf (specific leaf area, leaf dry matter content) and wood (wood specific gravity) traits. The way in which these factors affected growth resilience to drought was assessed.

Results

For the whole study period we found lower growth of Scots pine than Aleppo pine, but similar resilience components (except for higher Rt in 2005 for the former species). Despite each drought year resulting in distinct responses, the growth resilience to drought was mostly dependent on tree age for Aleppo pine, while functional diversity modulated a high percentage of the resilience variance of Scots pine. Black pine had an intermediate strategy. CWM explained, in general, less variance of the resilience components than functional diversity.

Conclusions

The positive effect of surrounding functional diversity on Scots pine could be related to a greater resistance to drought, likely due to improved resource acquisition favouring its performance at the dry limit of its distribution area. Intrinsic tree features, mass effects and functional diversity differently shape growth resilience to different droughts for co‐existing tree species.
Morphometric analyses and new taxonomic circumscription of South American species of Flourensia (Asteraceae, Heliantheae, Enceliinae)
Authors: Ospina Juan C. , Aagesen Lone , Ariza Espinar Luis , Freire Susana E.
Published: February 2018

Flourensia (Asteraceae, Heliantheae, Enceliinae) is an amphitropical genus of resinous subshrubs, shrubs and small trees with 13 North American and 20 South American species among which disagreement on the species limits of some members still exists. To resolve the taxonomy of the South American taxa, we carried out a combination of clustering (Ward's method with Gower distance coefficient) and ordination analyses (Principal Coordinate Analyses) based on 34 vegetative and reproductive characters scored from herbarium material, including types. Based on the results, we recognize 12 South American species: F. angustifolia, F. cajabambensis, F. fiebrigii, F. heterolepis, F. hirtissima, F. macrophylla, F. niederleinii; F. peruviana, F. polycephala, F. thurifera, F. tortuosa and F. suffrutescens. A number of species are placed in synonymy: Flourensia blakeana and F. hirta are synonymized under the name F. fiebrigii; Flourensia campestris, F. leptopoda, F. oolepis and F. riparia are synonymized under F. thurifera; Flourensia macroligulata is synonymized under F. tortuosa, and Flourensia polyclada is synonymized under F. suffrutescens. A taxonomic treatment of four redefined species as well as a key and distribution maps to all South American Flourensia species are provided.
Nitrogen deposition drives loss of moss cover in alpine moss–sedge heath via lowered C : N ratio and accelerated decomposition
Authors: Britton Andrea J. , Mitchell Ruth J. , Fisher Julia M. , Riach David J. , Taylor Andy F. S.
Published: February 2018

In alpine ecosystems, nitrogen (N) deposition has been linked to plant community composition change, including loss of bryophytes and increase of graminoids. Since bryophyte growth is stimulated by increased N availability, it has been hypothesized that loss of bryophyte cover is driven by enhanced decomposition. As bryophyte mats are a significant carbon (C) store, their loss may impact C storage in these ecosystems.

We used an N deposition gradient across 15 sites in the UK to examine effects of N deposition on bryophyte litter quality, decomposition and C and N stocks in Racomitrium moss–sedge heath.

Increasing N deposition reduced C : N in bryophyte litter, which in turn enhanced decomposition. Soil N stocks increased significantly in response to increased N deposition, and soil C : N declined. However, depletion of the bryophyte mat and its replacement by graminoids under high N deposition was not associated with a change in total ecosystem C stocks.

We conclude that decomposition processes in Racomitrium heath are very sensitive to N deposition and provide a mechanism by which N deposition drives depletion of the bryophyte mat. Nitrogen deposition did not measurably alter C stocks, but changes in soil N stocks and C : N suggest the ecosystem is becoming N saturated.
Quantifying with words: An investigation of the validity of narrative‐derived performance scores
Authors: Speer Andrew B.
Published: February 2018

Performance appraisal research has focused almost entirely on traditional numerical ratings despite narrative text comments regularly being collected within appraisals. This study investigated the theory and utility of leveraging narrative comments to better understand employee performance. Narrative sentiment scores were derived using text mining on a large sample of narrative comments. These scores were then applied to an independent set of 2 years of performance data. It was assumed that narrative comments would reflect true performance variance that overlaps with traditional ratings, but also that they would capture incremental variance due to increases in total information and a reduction in rater‐motivated biases in contexts in which narrative data were not explicitly linked to administrative outcomes. The derived narrative scores were reliable across years, converged with traditional numerical ratings and explained incremental variance in future performance outcomes (performance ratings, involuntary turnover, promotions, and pay increases). Collectively, this study highlights how narratives can enhance performance measurement and demonstrates how these data can be economically scored in applied settings.
Diastolic pressure indices offer a novel approach to predicting risk of graft loss after pediatric heart transplant
Authors: Albers Erin L. , Bradford Miranda C. , Friedland‐Little Joshua M. , Hong Borah J. , Kemna Mariska S. , Chen Jonathan M. , Law Yuk M.
Published: February 2018

PH is a risk factor for GL after HTx. However, traditional parameters are not reliable predictors of risk in children. We hypothesized that DPI (dPAP and DPG) are predictive of GL in pediatric HTx recipients. The UNOS/SRTR database was reviewed to identify pediatric HTx recipients (age <18 years) between 1994 and 2013. Recipients with pretransplant hemodynamic data were grouped by diagnosis (CMP or CHD), and the groups were analyzed separately. Bivariate Cox regression analysis examined the association between hemodynamic variables and GL. DPI showed the strongest association with early GL in recipients with CMP (dPAP: HR = 1.25 [1.09‐1.42]; DPG: 1.24 [1.11‐1.38]). Among CHD recipients, DPI were associated with early GL in those with preexisting PH (dPAP: HR = 1.16 [1.01‐1.33]; DPG: HR = 1.10 [1.00‐1.21]). No cutoff values for “high‐risk” DPI were identified, but a continuous relationship between higher DPI and risk of early GL was observed. DPI are associated with early GL in select pediatric HTx recipients. Our findings suggest that DPI should be considered as part of routine hemodynamic assessment for pediatric HTx candidates.
Understanding biological and ecological factors affecting seed germination of the multipurpose tree Anogeissus leiocarpa
Authors: Mattana E. , Sacande M. , Bradamante G. , Gomez‐Barreiro P. , Sanogo S. , Ulian T.
Published: February 2018

Anogeissus leiocarpa (DC.) Guill. & Perr. (Combretaceae) has important economic and cultural value in West Africa as source of wood, dye and medicine. Although this tree is in high demand by local communities, its planting remains limited due to its very low propagation via seed.

In this study, X‐rays were used to select filled fruits in order to characterise their morphology and seed germination responses to treatment with sulphuric acid and different incubation temperatures.

Morphological observations highlighted a straight orthotropous seed structure. The increase in mass detected for both intact and scarified fruits through imbibition tests, as well as morphological observations of fruits soaked in methylene blue solution, confirmed that they are water‐permeable, although acid‐scarified fruits reached significantly higher mass increment values than intact ones. Acid scarification (10 min soaking in 98% H2SO4) positively affected seed germination rate but not final germination proportions. When intact fruits where incubated at a range of temperatures, no seeds germinated at 10 °C, while maximum seed germination (ca. 80%) was reached at 20 °C. T50 values ranged from a minimum of ca. 12 days at 25 °C to a maximum of ca. 34 days at 15 and 35 °C. A theoretical base temperature for germination (Tb) of ca. 10 °C and a thermal requirement for 50% germination (S) of ca. 195 °Cd were also identified for intact fruits.

The results of this study revealed the seed germination characteristics driven by fruit and seed morphology of this species, which will help in its wider propagation in plantations.