bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Protected areas act as a buffer against detrimental effects of climate change—Evidence from large‐scale, long‐term abundance data
Authors: Lehikoinen Petteri , Santangeli Andrea , Jaatinen Kim , Rajasärkkä Ari , Lehikoinen Aleksi
Published: November 2018

Climate change is driving species to shift their distributions toward high altitudes and latitudes, while habitat loss and fragmentation may hamper species ability to follow their climatic envelope. These two drivers of change may act in synergy, with particularly disastrous impacts on biodiversity. Protected areas, PAs, may thus represent crucial buffers against the compounded effects of climate change and habitat loss. However, large‐scale studies assessing the performance of PAs as such buffers remain scarce and are largely based on species occurrence data. Conversely, abundance data have proven to be more reliable for addressing changes in wildlife populations under climate change. We evaluated changes in bird abundance from the 1970s–80s to the 2000s inside and outside PAs at the trailing range edge of 30 northern bird species and at the leading range edge of 70 southern species. Abundances of retracting northern species were higher and declined less inside PAs at their trailing range edge. The positive effect of PAs on bird abundances was particularly marked in northern species that rely strongly on PAs, that is, their density distribution is largely confined within PAs. These species were nearly absent outside PAs in the 2000s. The abundances of southern species were in general lower inside PAs and increased less from the 70s–80s to 2000s. Nonetheless, species with high reliance on PAs had much higher abundances inside than outside PAs in the 2000s. These results show that PAs are essential in mitigating the retraction of northern species, but also facilitate northward expansions of southern species highly reliant on PAs. Our study provides empirical evidence documenting the role of PAs in facilitating species to adjust to rapidly changing climatic conditions, thereby contributing to the mitigation of impending biodiversity loss. PAs may thus allow time for initiating wider conservation programs on currently unprotected land.
Continuous infusion of simoctocog alfa in haemophilia A patients undergoing surgeries
Authors: Holme Pål Andre , Tjønnfjord Geir E.
Published: November 2018

Introduction

There are two major principles for coagulation factor replacement in the clinical management of surgical procedures in patients with haemophilia, repetitive bolus injections every 6‐12 hours or administration of coagulation factor concentrates by continuous infusion.

Aim

The aim was to investigate the efficacy of simoctocog alfa (human‐cl rhFVIII) delivered by continuous infusion for bleeding prophylaxis during surgery in patients with haemophilia A.

Methods

We investigated the use of continuous infusion with simoctocog alfa in haemophilia A patients undergoing major surgical procedures at Oslo University Hospital from September 2015 to March 2018. The objectives were haemostatic outcome, in vivo recovery, stability over time at room temperature (3 days) and inhibitor development.

Results

Simoctocog alfa demonstrated treatment success in terms of haemostatic efficacy in 100% of major surgeries used as CI: 87% (n=21) excellent; 13% (n=3) good. No erythrocyte transfusions were required in any patient, no adverse events occurred and no inhibitors developed. The product was stable for 3 days at room temperature without loss of activity. Mean in vivo recovery was 1.8 (0.3) (IU/mL/IU/kg).

Conclusion

Continuous infusion with simoctocog alfa was found to achieve good/excellent haemostatic efficacy in all procedures. No adverse events occurred and no inhibitors developed.
Common origin of sequential cutaneous CD30+ lymphoproliferations with nodal involvement evidenced by genome‐wide clonal evolution
Authors: Xerri Luc , Adélaïde José , Avenin Morgan , Guille Arnaud , Taix Sebastien , Bonnet Nathalie , Carbuccia Nadine , Garnier Séverine , Mescam Lenaïg , Murati Anne , Chaffanet Max , Coso Diane , Bouabdallah Reda , Bertucci François , Birnbaum Daniel
Published: November 2018

Aims

This study sought to clarify the molecular pathways underlying the putative evolution from lymphomatoid papulosis (LyP) to cutaneous anaplastic large‐cell lymphoma (c‐ALCL) and lymph node invasion (LNI).

Methods and results

We analysed nine sequential tumours from the same patient presenting with parallel evolution of LyP (n = 3) and c‐ALCL (n = 1) with LNI (n = 1), combined with systemic diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBCL) (n = 4). Clonality analysis showed a common clonal T‐cell origin in the five CD30+ lesions, and a common clonal B‐cell origin in the four DLBCL relapses. Array‐comparative genomic hybridisation and targeted next‐generation sequencing analysis demonstrated relative genomic stability of LyP lesions as compared with clonally related anaplastic large‐cell lymphoma (ALCL) tumours, which showed 4q and 22q13 deletions involving the PRDM8 and TIMP3 tumour suppressor genes, respectively. The three analysed CD30+ lesions showed mostly private (specific to each sample) genetic alterations, suggesting early divergence from a common precursor. In contrast, DLBCL tumours showed progressive accumulation of private alterations, indicating late divergence.

Conclusions

Sequential cutaneous and nodal CD30+ tumours were clonally related. This suggests that LyP, c‐ALCL and LNI represent a continuous spectrum of clonal evolution emerging from a common precursor of cutaneous CD30+ lymphoproliferations. Therefore, nodal ALCL tumours in the context of LyP should be considered as a form of transformation rather than composite lymphoma.
Clarifying model for continuity of care: A concept analysis
Authors: Bahr Sarah J. , Weiss Marianne E.
Published: November 2018

Aim

The aim is to clarify the use of the term continuity in the specific context of acute care hospitalization and discharge.

Background

The meaning of “continuity” is often co‐mingled with other concepts, specifically coordination and communication. To increase usefulness for contemporary concerns with the hospitalization‐postdischarge continuum, continuity of care is examined from the specific context of acute hospitalization and discharge.

Design

Concept analysis.

Data Sources

Medline via Ovid, Cochrane Library, Cinahl, and Google Scholar. Search years encompassed 2001–2016.

Review Methods

Rodgers evolutionary concept analysis method.

Results

A total of 50 papers were included in this concept analysis. Synthesis of findings from these papers resulted in a model of continuity of care that illustrates the hierarchical and interdependent relationship between time and setting, patient‐provider relationships, communication, and coordination in the context of discharge transitions.

Conclusion

The continuity model provides a framework to assist in the design of multicomponent, interdisciplinary, integrated interventions that can then be tested for their effect on patient care practices and outcomes.
The limits of inequality: Public support for social policy across rich democracies
Authors: Breznau Nate , Hommerich Carola
Published: November 2018

Does public opinion react to inequality, and if so, how? The social harms caused by increasing inequality should cause public opinion to ramp up demand for social welfare protections. However, the public may react to inequality differently depending on institutional context. Using ISSP and WID data (1980‒2006), we tested these claims. In liberal institutional contexts (mostly English‐speaking), increasing income inequality predicted higher support for state provision of social welfare. In coordinated and universalist contexts (mostly of Europe), increasing inequality predicted less support. Historically higher income concentration predicted less public support, providing an account of the large variation in inequality within the respective liberal and coordinated contexts. The results suggest opinions in liberal societies – especially with higher historical inequality – reached the limits of inequality, reacting negatively; whereas in coordinated/universalist societies – especially with lower historical inequality – opinions moved positively, as if desiring more inequality.
Factors influencing clinical decision making used by mental health nurses to provide provisional diagnosis: A scoping review
Authors: Campbell Katrina , Massey Deb , Broadbent Marc , Clarke Karen‐Ann
Published: November 2018

Medical diagnosis has traditionally been the role of medical officers. However, mental health nurses working in crisis/emergency settings within Australia are expected to provide a provisional diagnosis postassessment of a consumer. There is limited literature and understanding how mental health nurses develop a provisional diagnosis. In this scoping review, we aimed to first identify and describe the clinical decision‐making processes used by mental health nurses across a variety of clinical settings. Second, we sought to explore the factors influencing mental health nurse's diagnostic practice in a variety of settings. Literature was searched using CINAHL (EBSCOhost), PubMed, and ProQuest. Peer‐reviewed literature published between 2007 and 2017 was used for this scoping review. Two major themes were identified: clinical decision making (CDM) in mental health nursing and diagnostic practice in nursing. A combination of clinician, environmental, and patient factors were found to have influenced CDM. Furthermore, mental health nurses rely heavily on tacit knowledge when making clinical decisions. Little is known about the use of diagnostic practice in mental health nursing in Australia; however, the limited literature revealed an overlap between the factors which influence CDM and diagnostic practice, respectively. Further research is needed into the use of diagnostic practice in mental health nursing to develop frameworks to assist with CDM pertaining to application of provisional diagnosis by mental health nurses working in assessment environments.
Wound management: Investigating the interprofessional decision‐making process
Authors: Heerschap Corey , Nicholas Andrew , Whitehead Meredith
Published: November 2018

Our aim is to develop a robust socio‐geographical transferable theory outlining the basic social process used by members of an interprofessional health care team when making decisions around wound care management. Using a qualitative multigrounded theory approach, three focus groups were held at the Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre in Barrie, Ontario, Canada, comprised of 13 clinicians who participate in wound care decision‐making. Data were analysed using an approach developed for multigrounded theory. A Critical Realist theoretical lens was applied to data analysis in the development of conclusions. Ten categories were identified before thematic saturation. Category interactions developed a perceived basic social process outlining how interprofessional clinicians determine how they approach wound care decisions: patient factors, scope of practice, equipment and supplies, internal clinician factors, knowledge and education, interprofessional team, assessment, wound care specialist consultation, and care plan, as well as documentation and communication. Understanding how wound care decision‐making is determined by interprofessional health care providers will assist clinical leaders and policy makers in creating a foundation for determining resource allocation, allowing clinicians to use evidence‐based practice to improve patient and clinician satisfaction, wound healing time, decrease costs, and prevent wound recurrence.
Epidemiology of venous leg ulcers in primary health care: Incidence and prevalence in a health centre—A time series study (2010‐2014)
Authors: Berenguer Pérez Miriam , López‐Casanova Pablo , Sarabia Lavín Raquel , González de la Torre Héctor , Verdú‐Soriano José
Published: November 2018

The aims of the study were to describe and analyse the temporal trend of the prevalence and incidence of venous leg ulcers (VLU) over the years 2010 to 2014, to determine healing times and temporal trends in the study period, and to evaluate related aspects such as the use of the Ankle‐Brachial Pressure Index (ABPI) in a primary care health centre. This was a retrospective study based on a time series (years 2010‐2014) of the prevalence and incidence of VLUs in people aged over 40 years in a primary care centre in Barcelona City. We reviewed 3920 electronic health records selecting patients, per year (2010‐2014), with VLUs based on the ICD‐10 diagnoses. For prevalence, we took into account any patient with an active VLU in the year of study. For incidence, we took into account patients with a new VLU in the year of study. A descriptive analysis was carried out based on each of the collected variables. The variables were examined according to the years of study (time series) by one‐factor analysis of variance (anova) or Kruskal–Wallis non‐parametric test, as appropriate. A survival analysis by Kaplan–Meier curves and log‐rank test was also performed. A total of 139 patients met the VLU criteria. Among them, only 79.2% were classified as having a VLU and had a correct ICD diagnosis. The prevalence and incidence increased over the years, doubling in patients aged over 65 years. Incidence increased from 0.5 new cases per 1000 people/year in 2010 to 1 new case for every 1000 people/year in 2014. Moreover, the prevalence ranged between 0.8 and 2.2 patients with VLU for every 1000 people/year. During the study period, a total of 84.2% of the VLUs healed (117/139 VLU). Regarding average annual time to healing, the trend indicates that lesions took less time to heal (Kruskal–Wallis test, P = 0.004), ranging between 453,9 weeks in 2005 to 19 weeks in 2014. The use of ABPI also evolved and was found to be increasingly performed prior to the appearance of the lesion. The epidemiological profile of people affected by VLUs continues to be, mainly, that of women of an advanced age, over 70 years. The frequency of VLU occurrence rose continually over the years, but healing took less time, and use of ABPI improved. Assigning a reference nurse in the wounds unit and the organisational structure around this problem may have an influence on improving care and the approach to these types of lesions.
Identification with arts‐based groups improves mental wellbeing in adults with chronic mental health conditions
Authors: Williams Elyse , Dingle Genevieve A. , Jetten Jolanda , Rowan Christian
Published: November 2018

People experiencing chronic mental health conditions (CMHC) often report feeling socially marginalised. There is emerging evidence that social and mental wellbeing can be enhanced through participation in arts‐based programmes. In this paper, a social identity theoretical approach was applied to explore how participation in the arts may improve mental health in a longitudinal study. A one‐year prospective study of 34 choir members and 25 creative writing group members (Mage = 46, 51% female) with CMHC, involved three assessments of participants’ group identification and mental wellbeing, measured by the Warwick Edinburgh Mental Wellbeing Scale. The programmes were community‐based and facilitated by arts professionals. Multilevel modelling analyses demonstrated that participants’ mental wellbeing significantly improved over time. Greater identification with their arts‐based group (ABG) was significantly related to an increased rate of improvement in mental wellbeing. The trajectory of improvement in mental wellbeing did not differ between participants partaking in the choir or creative writing group. This study demonstrates that participation in ABGs can be effective in improving mental wellbeing in adults with chronic mental health problems, particularly for those who strongly identify with the group. This study supports ABG participation as an accessible component of mental health services.
The effects of health frame and target relevance in appearance social comparisons
Authors: Head Maggie L. , Bruchmann Kathryn
Published: November 2018

Social comparison powerfully influences on appearance self‐evaluations, but previous research has not examined the combined impact of target frame and relevance on appearance comparison outcomes. The present study examined the effect of target relevance and health frame in body‐ideal images on self‐evaluations in a mixed‐gender university‐based sample from the United States (N = 176; 58% female). Participants were randomly assigned to one of four conditions in which they viewed a body‐ideal image of a same‐sex target that varied in target relevance (peer or model) and health frame (extreme behaviors described as being healthy or unhealthy). We did not find evidence that comparisons with models or peers are different in their effects. And, consistent with hypotheses, the health frame of a comparison target’s eating and exercise behaviors influenced how participants perceived themselves and their health. Participants were more likely to take health advice from the target described as healthy, and felt better about their own health when comparing to healthy targets. We also found gender differences such that men were more satisfied with their physical health but women were more satisfied with their appearance. Overall, this research supports the importance of addressing peer comparisons and health literacy in body image interventions, which has long‐term implications for the prevention of eating and exercise pathology.
Picroside II attenuates hyperhomocysteinemia‐induced endothelial injury by reducing inflammation, oxidative stress and cell apoptosis
Authors: Wang Yunkai , Hong Yajun , Zhang Chunyu , Shen Yunli , Pan Ye Shen , Chen Rui Zhen , Zhang Qi , Chen Yi Han
Published: November 2018

Picroside II (P‐II), one of the main active components of scrophularia extract, which have anti‐oxidative, anti‐inflammatory effects, but its effect on hyperhomocysteinemia (HHcy) induced endothelial injury remains to be determined. Here, we test whether P‐II protects HHcy‐induced endothelial dysfunction against oxidative stress, inflammation and cell apoptosis. In vitro study using HUVECs, and in hyperhomocysteinemia mouse models, we found that HHcy decreased endothelial SIRT1 expression and increased LOX‐1 expression, subsequently causing reactive oxygen species generation, up‐regulation of NADPH oxidase activity and NF‐κB activation, thereby promoting pro‐inflammatory response and cell apoptosis. Blockade of Sirt1 with Ex527 or siRNASIRT1 increased LOX‐1 expression, whereas overexpression of SIRT1 decreased LOX‐1 expression markedly. P‐II treatment significantly increased SIRT1 expression and reduced LOX‐1 expression, and protected against endothelial cells from Hcy‐induced oxidative injury, inflammation and apoptosis. However, blockade of SIRT1 or overexpression of LOX‐1 attenuated the therapeutic effects of P‐II. In conclusion, our results suggest that P‐II prevents the Hcy induced endothelial damage probably through regulating the SIRT1/LOX‐1 signaling pathway.
The frequency of arthritis in Adamantiades‐Behçet's disease in Greek patients
Authors: Vaiopoulos A.G. , Kapsimali V. , Kanakis M.A. , Vaiopoulos G. , Samarkos M. , Zouboulis C.C. , Kaklamanis P.G.
Published: November 2018

Background/Objectives

Musculoskeletal manifestations are frequent in Adamantiades‐Behçet's disease (ABD) but only represent non‐specific clinical findings. They have not been included in the two commonly used sets of classification criteria. The occurrence of musculoskeletal manifestations at ABD onset may even delay or obscure the diagnosis; therefore, detailed knowledge of the different musculoskeletal manifestations is essential. Our objective was to describe musculoskeletal signs and their clinical course in Greek ABD patients.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study, which included all patients with ABD, who had been examined in our Rheumatology Outpatient Division from 1995 to 2010. The study included 224 ABD patients (140 male, 84 female) that fulfilled the International Criteria for the diagnosis of BD. For statistical analysis, we have used chi‐square and Fisher's exact tests.

Results

Arthritis as a presenting sign was seen in 10.2% of our patients. During the follow‐up period, the frequency of arthritis was 58.4%. Monoarthritis was found in 32.8% and 22.6% of male and female patients, respectively (ns). During the follow‐up period, polyarthritis was only occasionally observed in male patients (2.14%). Oligoarthritis was assessed in 20.0% and 41.6% of male and female patients, respectively (P < 0.001), and was the only significantly different manifestation between sexes.

Conclusions

Musculoskeletal manifestations are common in ABD both at presentation and during the disease course. The most frequent sign is mooarthritis. Oligoarthritis was the only significantly different articular manifestation between sexes (more common in women) in our study group.
HrQoL in hair loss‐affected patients with alopecia areata, androgenetic alopecia and telogen effluvium: the role of personality traits and psychosocial anxiety
Authors: Russo P.M. , Fino E. , Mancini C. , Mazzetti M. , Starace M. , Piraccini B.M.
Published: November 2018

Background

Illness impact on HrQoL has been widely studied in hair loss‐affected patients, yet no study has addressed whether individual differences modulate HrQoL in patients with alopecia areata (AA), androgenetic alopecia (AGA) and telogen effluvium (TE).

Objective

To identify the personality dimensions most predictive of the impact of disease on HrQoL.

Method

A single‐site cross‐sectional study was carried out in the Dermatology Unit of Sant'Orsola‐Malpighi Hospital, Bologna between September 2016 and September 2017. The study included 143 patients (105 females, ages 18–60 years) diagnosed with AA (n = 27), AGA (n = 80) and TE (n = 36). Illness severity, alopecia type, age, gender, education and civil status were documented. Health‐related quality of life (HrQoL), personality traits, trait anxiety, emotional intelligence, social anxiety and social phobia were also measured.

Results

AA, AGA and TE groups differed significantly for illness severity with most severe patients falling in AA type. For HrQoL, Gender × Group interaction resulted significant with AGA females reporting a higher impact of hair loss on quality of life than males, while TE males were more impacted by hair loss than AA and AGA males. Lower scores were obtained by AGA females than males on emotional intelligence while no significant differences were evidenced on other groups. A significant Gender × Group interaction was also found for trait anxiety, social phobia and social anxiety: consistently, AGA females reported higher scores than AGA males in all three measures. Finally, discriminant analysis evidenced that anxiety‐related traits can contribute to reliably predict hair loss impact on HrQoL, regardless of illness severity and alopecia type.

Conclusions

We recommend that gender and individual differences in anxiety‐related dimensions be considered as key factors in gaining a deeper understanding of hair loss impact on quality of life as well as in reducing the burden of illness in alopecia‐affected patients.
Exporting firms and retail internationalization: Evidence from France
Authors: Cheptea Angela , Emlinger Charlotte , Latouche Karine
Published: November 2018

This paper questions the impact of the globalization of the retail sector on the export activity of origin country agri‐food firms. We use an original firm‐level database of French agri‐food exports that identifies the domestic suppliers of French retailers through certification with the private International Featured Standard (IFS). The results show that IFS certified French firms are more likely to export and export larger volumes than noncertified firms to markets where French retailers have established outlets. We also show that when French retailers stop their activities in a market, certified firms reduce their exports to this market in the following years. The results are robust to the use of different sets of firm‐year‐ and country‐year‐specific controls and fixed effects, and are not affected by possible selection and endogeneity biases. The difference in the behavior of certified and noncertified exporting firms on markets where French retailers operate confirms the network effect that benefits retailers’ suppliers, which is lost when French retailers exit from the destination country.
Effect of screw access hole design on the fracture resistance of implant‐supported zirconia‐based restorations
Authors: Saboury Abolfazl , Mahshid Minoo , Tabatabaian Farhad , Moghadam Leila
Published: November 2018

Objective

To evaluate the effect of screw access hole design on the fracture resistance of cement‐retained implant‐supported zirconia‐based restorations with screw access holes.

Materials and Methods

Thirty cement‐retained implant‐supported zirconia‐based molar crown specimens were fabricated. The specimens were divided into 3 groups of 10: without access holes (C), with screw access holes (S), and with screw access holes accompanied with a surrounding zirconia wall (W). The veneering ceramic thickness was 0.8 mm in all groups. Implants were vertically mounted in a metal block. Abutments were screwed on the implants and the specimens were cemented to the abutments. A universal testing machine applied compressive forces to the specimens until fracture. Fracture resistance values of the specimens were measured. One‐way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Tukey HSD tests were used to analyze data (P < .05).

Results

The mean fracture resistance values were 5794.85 N for C, 2691.48 N for S, and 3878.06 N for W. The screw access hole design significantly affected the fracture resistance (P < .0001). Significant differences were found between C and S (P < .001), C and W (P < .001), and S and W (P = .026).

Conclusions

The screw access hole decreased the fracture resistance. A surrounding zirconia wall for the screw access hole increased the fracture resistance.

Clinical Significance

Screw access hole design may affect the fracture resistance of cement‐retained implant‐supported zirconia‐based restorations with screw access holes. This study introduced a screw access hole design to improve the fracture resistance of these restorations.
Optical properties and colorimetric evaluation of resin cements formulated with thio‐urethane oligomers
Authors: Bacchi Atais , Caldas Ricardo Armini , Cesar Paulo Francisco , Pfeifer Carmem Silvia
Published: November 2018

Objective

The aim of this study was to evaluate the color parameters and optical properties of resin cements (RCs) formulated with thio‐urethanes (TUs).

Materials and methods

Six TUs were synthesized by combining thiols (pentaerythritol tetra‐3‐mercaptopropionate [PETMP] or trimethylol‐tris‐3‐mercaptopropionate [TMP]) with di‐functional isocyanates (1,6‐Hexanediol‐diissocyante [HDDI] [aliphatic‐AL] or 1,3‐bis(1‐isocyanato‐1‐methylethyl) benzene [BDI] [aromatic‐AR] or Dicyclohexylmethane 4,4′‐Diisocyanate [HMDI] [cyclic‐CC]). TUs (20 wt%) were added to a BisGMA/UDMA/TEGDMA matrix. Filler was introduced at 60 wt%. Fluorescence was evaluated through an UV‐light emitting equipment. Coordinates L*, a*, and b* were obtained in the black and white reflectance to evaluate the contrast ratio (CR) and translucency parameter (TP00). The coordinates obtained from transmittance were used to evaluate lightness (L*), chroma (C*), color difference (ΔE00) after 6 month, and whiteness index for Dentistry (WID).

Results

RCs formulated with TUs presented significantly higher CR, and fluorescence (with T_AR). Significantly lower C*, L*, and TP00 (except for P_AR and T_AL) were also observed in RCs containing TUs. ΔE00 were not significant among the materials. WID was not influenced.

Conclusion

RCs composed by TU oligomers present higher CR and lower translucency. The material also present higher fluorescence depending on the oligomer used.

Clinical Significance

The use of thio‐urethanes to formulate resin cements can ensure a luting material with improved potential to mask colored substrates due to the higher contrast ratio and lower translucency obtained. A final higher fluorescence of restoration is also expected with the use of specific oligomer.
Structural equation modeling of home food safety practice based on the PRECEDE model
Authors: Esfarjani Fatemeh , Mohammadi‐Nasrabadi Fatemeh , Khaksar Ramin , Roustaee Roshanak , Alikhanian Haleh , Ghazi‐Tabatabaei Mahmoud , Hosseini Hedayat
Published: November 2018

This cross‐sectional study is the first attempt to design predictive model of home food safety practice by structural equation modeling (SEM) approach. The most important factors in the final model were demographic status (t = 1.99, γ = 0.99) and reinforcing factors (t = 3.30, γ = 0.29), while enabling factors (t = −2.07, γ = −0.10) and demographic status (t = −4.03, γ = −0.13) had reverse effect on food insecurity (FI). FI itself had negative effect on food safety practice (t = −2.21, γ = −0.16). The fit indices indicated that the model had good fitting (root mean square error of approximation [RMSEA] = 0.036, goodness of fit index [GFI] = 0.94, and adjusted goodness of fit index [AGFI] = 0.92).

Practical applications

FI and undesirable food practice were relatively prevalent among the households of Tehran. This model provides accurate and reliable information for policy makers to improve food safety status and reduce foodborne disease in Iranian households.
Identification of genes with universally upregulated or downregulated expressions in colorectal cancer
Authors: Song Kai , Su Wei , Liu Yanlong , Zhang Jiahui , Liang Qirui , Li Na , Guan Qingzhou , He Jun , Bai Xuefeng , Zhao Wenyuan , Guo Zheng
Published: November 2018

Background and Aim

Differentially expressed (DE) genes detected at the population‐level through case–control comparison provide no information on the dysregulation frequencies of DE genes in a cancer. In this work, we aimed to identify the genes with universally upregulated or downregulated expressions in colorectal cancer (CRC).

Methods

We firstly clarified that DE genes in an individual cancer tissue should be the disease‐relevant genes, which are dysregulated in the cancer tissue in comparison with its own previously normal state. Then, we identified DE genes at the individual level for 2233 CRC samples collected from multiple data sources using the RankComp algorithm.

Results

We found 26 genes that were upregulated or downregulated in almost all the 2233 CRC samples and validated the results using 124 CRC tissues with paired adjacent normal tissues. Especially, we found that two genes (AJUBA and EGFL6), upregulated universally in CRC tissues, were extremely lowly expressed in normal colorectal tissues, which were considered to be oncogenes in CRC oncogenesis and development. Oppositely, we found that one gene (LPAR1), downregulated universally in CRC tissues, was silenced in CRC tissues but highly expressed in normal colorectal tissues, which were considered to be tumor suppressor genes in CRC. Functional evidences revealed that these three genes may induce CRC through deregulating pathways for ribosome biogenesis, cell proliferation, and cell cycle.

Conclusions

In conclusion, the individual‐level DE genes analysis can help us find genes dysregulated universally in CRC tissues, which may be important diagnostic biomarkers and therapy targets.
Ginsenoside Rb1 promotes intestinal epithelial wound healing through extracellular signal‐regulated kinase and Rho signaling
Authors: Toyokawa Yuki , Takagi Tomohisa , Uchiyama Kazuhiko , Mizushima Katsura , Inoue Ken , Ushiroda Chihiro , Kashiwagi Saori , Nakano Takahiro , Hotta Yuma , Tanaka Makoto , Dohi Osamu , Okayama Tetsuya , Yoshida Naohisa , Katada Kazuhiro , Kamada Kazuhiro , Ishikawa Takeshi , Handa Osamu , Konishi Hideyuki , Naito Yuji , Itoh Yoshito
Published: November 2018

Background and Aim

Daikenchuto, a traditional Japanese herbal medicine, has been reported to exhibit anti‐inflammatory effects against intestinal inflammation. However, whether daikenchuto has a therapeutic effect against intestinal mucosal injuries remains unclear. Thus, the aim of this study was to determine the effect of daikenchuto on intestinal mucosal healing.

Methods

Colitis was induced in male Wistar rats by using trinitrobenzenesulfonic acid. Daikenchuto (900 mg/kg/day) was administered for 7 days after the induction of colitis. Thereafter, intestinal mucosal injuries were evaluated by determining the colonic epithelial regeneration ratio ([area of epithelial regeneration/area of ulcer] × 100). Restoration of rat intestinal epithelial cells treated with daikenchuto and its constituent herbs (Zanthoxylum fruit, processed ginger, and ginseng) and ginsenoside Rb1, which is a ginseng ingredient, was evaluated using a wound‐healing assay.

Results

The colon epithelial regeneration ratio in the daikenchuto‐treated rats was significantly higher than that in the control rats. Daikenchuto, ginseng, and ginsenoside Rb1 enhanced wound healing, and the ginsenoside Rb1‐induced enhancement was inhibited by extracellular signal‐regulated kinase and Rho inhibitors.

Conclusions

Daikenchuto and its constituent, ginsenoside Rb1, promoted wound healing. Because mucosal healing is one of the most important therapeutic targets in patients with inflammatory bowel disease, ginsenoside Rb1 may be a novel therapeutic agent against intestinal mucosal damage such as that occurring in intestinal bowel disease.
International Financial Reporting Standards adoption and information quality: Evidence from Brazil
Authors: Eng Li Li , Lin Jing , Neiva De Figueiredo João
Published: November 2018

This paper examines whether the mandatory adoption of International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) in Brazil in 2010 has improved the value relevance of accounting information, information content of earnings, financial analyst forecasting activities, and liquidity. We examine the variables in the pre‐IFRSmandatory adoption sample period, considered herein as 2008 to 2009, and the post‐IFRSadoption period of 2011 to 2012. We provide evidence demonstrating improvement in value relevance of earnings and number of analysts following the firms in the period afterIFRSadoption, but we do not find improvements in information content of earnings, accuracy in analyst forecasting, and liquidity in the post‐adoption period. Our findings suggest a positive relationship betweenIFRSadoption and some areas of information quality in Brazil. By focusing on one important economy as it takes significant steps toward full convergence withIFRS, our study contributes to the growing literature concerning the impact ofIFRSadoption around the world.
Comparisons of the stages and psychosocial factors of smoking cessation and coping strategies for smoking cessation in college student smokers: Conventional cigarette smokers compared to dual smokers of conventional and e‐cigarettes
Authors: Oh HyunSoo , Im BoAe , Seo WhaSook
Published: November 2018

Aim

This study was conducted to compare conventional cigarette and dual smokers (users of both conventional and e‐cigarettes) with respect to the stages of smoking cessation behavior change and psychosocial factors and coping strategies for smoking cessation among college students.

Methods

Using convenience and snowball sampling methods, 300 college student smokers were recruited. The data were collected from July to December, 2016. The data included the general characteristics of the participants, information related to smoking and smoking cessation, the stages of smoking cessation behaviors, self‐efficacy in, and barriers to, smoking cessation, and adoption of coping strategies for smoking cessation.

Results

The prevalence of e‐cigarette use in the cohort was 19.3%. Nicotine dependence in the dual smoker group was significantly higher than that in the conventional cigarette smoker group. No significant intergroup differences were observed for the stage of smoking cessation behavior and self‐efficacy in, and perceived barriers to, smoking cessation. However, the dual smokers had a significantly higher prevalence of quit attempts and were more likely to adopt smoking cessation coping strategies.

Conclusions

The findings indicated that the dual smokers had higher levels of nicotine dependence, but were more likely to attempt to quit smoking and adopt smoking cessation coping strategies. This implies that dual smokers might find it more difficult to quit smoking related to higher nicotine dependence, despite having a higher motivation for smoking cessation. These characteristics should be considered when developing smoking cessation strategies for e‐cigarette smokers. In addition, different approaches to smoking cessation education should be used for e‐cigarette and conventional cigarette smokers.
Peptide mimetic of N‐terminal ghrelin enhances ghrelin‐induced growth hormone secretion and c‐Fos expression in mice
Authors: Lunder Mojca , Vodnik Miha , Kubale Valentina , Grgurevič Neža , Majdič Gregor , Štrukelj Borut
Published: November 2018

Orexigenic peptide ghrelin and its receptor have been extensively investigated as potential therapeutic targets, primarily because of their role in feeding initiation and growth hormone (GH) release. However, no specific ghrelin targeting anti‐obesity or cachexia therapeutics are available for clinical use thus far and further efforts in this direction are warranted. The present study aimed to find new peptide drug leads modulating ghrelin signal transduction. By targeting neutralising antibodies against ghrelin with phage display libraries, we aimed to identify peptides binding to the cognate receptor. Four synthetic peptides were selected and tested using calcium screening assays. The most effective competitive antagonist FSFLPPE was further tested in vivo. Administration of the peptide produced no significant effect on either food intake or GH release. Surprisingly, when co‐administered with ghrelin, the peptide significantly enhanced GH secretion and c‐Fos expression. The evidence obtained in the present study indicates that FSFLPPE might act as an ago‐allosteric modulator.
A parasternal intercostal perforator flap for esthetic reconstruction after complete chest keloid resection: A retrospective observational cohort study
Authors: Song Ke‐Xin , Wang You‐Bin , Zhang Ming‐Zi , Wang Xiao‐Jun
Published: November 2018

Objective

To report on the outcome of 35 patients with chest keloids who were treated with intercostal perforator flap surgery plus local radiotherapy at our hospital.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed the data of patients with chest keloid who under surgical resection at the Department of Plastic Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, China between March 2014 and July 2017. We retrieved patient demographic data, donor site position, the perforator pedicle, flap size, angle of flap rotation, complications, and recurrences from the medical records. All patients underwent perforator flap surgery for complete keloid resection followed by radiation at postoperative day 1 and 8 for a total dose 16‐18 Gy.

Results

Thirty‐five patients were included in the retrospective analysis. Their mean age was 45.3 years (range 24‐67 years). The mean keloid area was 5‐7 cm × 6‐10 cm. Surgeries were successful in all cases. There were no perioperative complications. Good outcome with no apparent scar growth was achieved in 88.6% of the cases, and 11.4% of the cases achieved satisfactory outcome with partial scar growth in the incision, but no keloid was observed. Twenty‐four months after surgery, none of the resected keloids recurred and none of the donor sites developed new keloids.

Conclusion

Intercostal perforator flap surgery is an effective and safe approach for repair of wound formed as a result of excision of relatively large chest keloids which cannot be directly appositioned.
Efficacy of platelet‐rich plasma in androgenetic alopecia patients
Authors: Butt Ghazala , Hussain Ijaz , Ahmed Fridoon Jawad , Choudhery Mahmood S
Published: November 2018

Background

Androgenetic alopecia (AGA), a patterned hair loss in both males and females, is a commonly occurring disease worldwide. Conventionally, no curative or satisfactory treatment is available for this condition. Therefore, in the current study, we aim to use platelet‐rich plasma (PRP) as an alternative treatment option for the AGA patients.

Materials and Methods

A total of 30 patients (20 men and 10 women) with AGA were included in the study between February 2017 and November 2017. Blood (9 cc) from each AGA patient was collected in 10 cc syringe, and PRP was isolated using commercially available kit under sterilized conditions. Isolated PRP was injected in the bald areas of scalp of AGA patients. The whole procedure was repeated after one month (two treatment sessions), and patients were followed for six months. The efficacy of PRP for restoration of hair was assessed using parameters such as hair density, terminal to vellus hair ratio, photographs, pull test, physician global assessment score, and patient global assessment score.

Results

Mean hair density on first visit (before treatment) was 34.18 ± 14.36/cm2 which was increased to 50.20 ± 15.91/cm2 after 6 months of first treatment (P value <0.05). On a scale of three, mean scores of physician and patient global assessments were 1.45 ± 0.57 and 1.60 ± 0.62, respectively. Mean percentage reduction of hair pulled was 29.2% (P value <0.05) after PRP treatment. Terminal to vellus hair ratio was increased in 60% of patients after PRP therapy. No remarkable adverse effects were noted in patients.

Conclusion

Results showed that PRP is an effective treatment option in androgenetic alopecia as indicated by higher hair density, satisfactory physician and patient global assessment scores, and increase in terminal to vellus hair ratio.
Application value of Caprini risk assessment model and elevated tumor‐specific D‐dimer level in predicting postoperative venous thromboembolism for patients undergoing surgery of gynecologic malignancies
Authors: Shi Jun , Ye Jing , Zhuang Xu , Cheng Xiaoyue , Fu Ruojin , Zhao Aimin
Published: November 2018

Aim

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in gynecologic malignant patients after surgery. We aimed to validate the Caprini risk assessment model (RAM) and elevated tumor‐specific D‐dimer as predictive marker of postoperative VTE for patients undergoing surgery of gynecologic malignancies.

Methods

Inpatients were divided into five groups (low: score = 0–1; moderate: score = 2; high: score = 3–4; higher: score = 5–7; sup‐high: score > 7) and treated according to their risk level after the surgery during the hospitalization according to the Caprini RAM. D‐dimer level was detected during the perioperative period. If D‐dimer did not fall to normal reference range on the seventh day after operation, the use of low‐molecular‐weight heparin was prolonged to 28 days after surgery.

Results

The majority (853/974, 87.6%) of the patients was in the Caprini score ≥5, with an overall VTE incidence of 1.75%. The VTE group had significantly higher Caprini score, CA125, vascular invasion rate and lymph node metastasis rate. If 1.5 μg/mL was used as the D‐dimer cut‐off value to predicting VTE, the sensitivity was 87.5%, the specificity was 93.8% and the negative predictive value was 99.2%. The D‐dimer level was a marker for prolonging the anticoagulants use during the perioperative period, especially for the sup‐high group.

Conclusion

The Caprini RAM is an effective and reliable VTE risk prediction tool for patients undergoing gynecological malignant tumor surgery. The group (score ≥ 5) can be divided into two subgroups (higher: score = 5–7 and sup‐high: score > 7), which may better predict the occurrence of VTE for malignant tumor patients. Great than 1.5 μg/mL D‐dimer before operation should be given more attention for the presence of VTE.
Suggestive hypothesis on a case report: Patient presenting with cyclical ovarian cysts coupled to increased cholestatic enzymes
Authors: Conca Paolo , Cafaro Giovanni , Savastano Silvia , Coppola Antonio , Cimino Ernesto , Tarantino Giovanni
Published: November 2018

We describe the case of a childbearing‐age woman presenting with spontaneous recurrent functional ovarian cysts and, more interestingly, chronic and asymptomatic elevation of cholestatic parameters. The patient showed no history of chronic viral infections, immunological and metabolic disorders, alcohol abuse and environmental toxins exposition. Hepatic ultrasonography and cholangio‐pancreatography‐magnetic‐resonance excluded any morphological and structural abnormalities, while liver biopsy evidenced only minimal and not specific features of inflammation. Cholestasis indices obtained prompt recovery after each cycle of synthetic hormone therapy, implanted to treat functional ovarian cysts. She has continuously experienced the off‐therapy asynchronous recurrence of liver laboratory abnormalities and functional ovarian cysts. The favorable effect of the synthetic hormone therapy to obtaining a stable recovery of this unexplained long‐lasting cholestatic syndrome could be likely explained by downregulation of an endogenous ovarian overproduction, although estrogen‐regulated local intracellular transduction pathways cannot be excluded.
Mediators of the Effectiveness of an Intervention Promoting Water Consumption in Preschool Children: The ToyBox Study
Authors: Lambrinou Christina‐Paulina , van Stralen Maartje M. , Androutsos Odysseas , Moreno Luis A. , Iotova Violeta , Socha Piotr , Koletzko Berthold , De Bourdeaudhuij Ilse , Manios Yannis
Published: November 2018

BACKGROUND

The ToyBox‐intervention has increased preschool children's water consumption. This study aimed to examine if family‐related determinants mediate the effects of the ToyBox‐intervention on preschoolers' water consumption.

METHODS

Overall, 6290 preschoolers and their families from 6 European countries participated in the ToyBox‐intervention and returned parental questionnaires in May/June 2012 and 2013. This study included the 3725 preschoolers/families who had complete data on water consumption, all mediators, and confounders. Mediation effects were assessed with bootstrapping procedure.

RESULTS

Regarding the intervention effects on family‐related determinants, the ToyBox‐intervention significantly increased water availability during meals, parental water consumption, parental encouragement to their children to drink water, and parental knowledge on water recommendations. In the multiple mediator model, all factors were independently associated with preschoolers' water consumption and mediated the intervention effect on preschoolers' water consumption (total mediation effect = 40%). After including all mediators into the model, the direct intervention effect remained significant.

CONCLUSIONS

The effect of the ToyBox‐intervention on preschool children's water consumption was mediated by most family‐related determinants examined in this study (ie, availability, parental modeling, parental encouragement, and parental knowledge). Interventions aiming to promote water in preschoolers should target these mediators to enhance their effectiveness.
School‐Level Body Mass Index Shapes Children's Weight Trajectories
Authors: Kranjac Ashley W.
Published: November 2018

BACKGROUND

Embedded within children's weight trajectories are complex environmental contexts that influence obesity risk. As such, the normative environment of body mass index (BMI) within schools may influence children's weight trajectories as they age from kindergarten to fifth grade.

METHODS

I use 5 waves of the ECLS‐K—Kindergarten Class 1998‐1999 data and a series of multilevel growth models to examine whether attending schools with higher overall BMI influences children's weight status over time.

RESULTS

Results show that, net of child, family, and school sociodemographic characteristics, children who attend schools with higher rates of obesity have increased weight compared to children who attend schools with lower rates of obesity, and this effect increases annually.

CONCLUSIONS

Findings indicate that the overall weight status of schools influence child obesity, and further speak to the importance of school‐based intervention programs.