bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Non‐invasive objective devices for monitoring the inflammatory, proliferative and remodelling phases of cutaneous wound healing and skin scarring
Authors: Ud‐Din Sara , Bayat Ardeshir
Published: April 2016

Objective evaluation of cutaneous wounds through the use of non‐invasive devices is important for diagnosis, monitoring treatment response and can lead to the development of improved theranostic strategies. The need for objective monitoring of wound healing and scar formation is evident as this enables accurate diagnosis, evaluation and prognosis for clinicians and allows for the standardisation and validation of methodology for researchers. Therefore, this review provides an overview of the current application of non‐invasive objective technologies for the assessment of wound healing through the different phases of repair. We propose that cutaneous healing parameters can be split into three core domains: anatomical, mechanical and physiological. These categories can be further subdivided with respect to specific phases of healing. There is no single instrument, which can measure all the parameters of healing simultaneously; thus, it is important to choose the correct device for the particular healing characteristics being monitored. However, multiprobe systems, which include a number of devices connected to one main unit, are useful as they enable multiple measurements of different parameters. Many of the devices have not been validated against histological examination. Additionally, some of the instruments have not been evaluated in all wound or scar types and may not be useful throughout all phases of cutaneous wound healing. In conclusion, non‐invasive objective devices are useful in the assessment of cutaneous wound healing, as these tools can link the treatment and diagnosis by evaluating response to treatment and thus could aid as a marker for healing and scar maturation.
Extracellular superoxide dismutase ameliorates house dust mite‐induced atopic dermatitis‐like skin inflammation and inhibits mast cell activation in mice
Authors: Lee Yun Sang , Choi Jung‐Hye , Lee Ji‐Hyun , Lee Han‐Woong , Lee Weontae , Kim Woo Taek , Kim Tae‐Yoon
Published: April 2016

Extracellular superoxide dismutase (EC‐SOD) is an enzyme that catalyses the dismutation of superoxide anions. It has multiple functions, such as reactive oxygen species scavenging, anti‐angiogenic, anti‐inflammatory, antichemotatic and antitumor activities. Recently, we demonstrated that EC‐SOD inhibits ovalbumin‐induced allergic airway inflammation in mice. However, the anti‐allergic effect of EC‐SOD on skin tissue and the role of EC‐SOD in mast cells, which are important for allergic responses, have not been well studied. In this study, we investigated whether EC‐SOD can alleviate atopic dermatitis in mice and inhibit mast cell activation. Treatment with human recombinant EC‐SOD ameliorated house dust mite‐induced atopic dermatitis in mice. Furthermore, the levels of pro‐allergic cytokine gene expression and histamine release increased in EC‐SOD KO mast cells and decreased in EC‐SOD overexpressing mast cells, suggesting that EC‐SOD inhibits mast cell activation. Consistently, a passive cutaneous anaphylaxis experiment showed more blood leakage from EC‐SOD KO mouse ear skin, implying that the lack of EC‐SOD increases allergic responses. These results suggest that EC‐SOD inhibits mast cell activation and atopic dermatitis and that the loss of EC‐SOD causes more severe allergic responses, implying that EC‐SOD might be a good drug candidate for treatment of allergic disorders, such as atopic dermatitis.
Value Capture: A Valid Means of Funding PPPs?
Authors: Connolly Ciaran , Wall Anthony
Published: April 2016

This paper considers the use of value capture (VC) as a means of financing public‐private partnerships (PPPs) in the United Kingdom (UK). Although some VC techniques are used in the UK, they are employed more widely in the United States of America. After considering the traditional approach to financing UK PPPs, this paper describes the main VC finance instruments. The findings of a series of case studies are then presented and conclusions drawn. While VC financing may prove unpopular with those bearing the cost of infrastructure improvements, it is recommended that such instruments are considered by UK policy makers.
Numbers versus Narrative: An Examination of a Controversy
Authors: Dumay John , Rooney Jim
Published: April 2016

Competing actor interpretations of Intellectual Capital Statements (ICS) may explain diverse opinions on their effectiveness in practice. Adopting Callon's (1986) moments of translation, we find that actors in our case study adapt ICS numbers and narrative to create specific inscriptions, privileging one over the other to suit their interests. This allows IC controversy to survive rather than be resolved or the network to fail.
Budget Rules and Flexibility in the Public Sector: Towards a Taxonomy
Authors: Di Francesco Michael , Alford John
Published: April 2016

The practices and norms of public budgeting have often been seen as a brake on the flexibility needed of government organisations. This remains true despite historically significant financial management reforms designed around budgetary devolution. Seeing flexibility as operating along two dimensions – devolution and discretion – this paper revisits the underlying features of traditional public budgeting to develop a taxonomy of six generic ‘budget rules’. By isolating key properties of budget control, the paper uses two of the more prominent rules – annuality and purpose – to illustrate how the rules interact to generate control capacity, as well as the scope for rule variability in promoting increased flexibility.
Oxidative phosphorylation and mitochondrial function differ between human prostate tissue and cultured cells
Authors: Schöpf Bernd , Schäfer Georg , Weber Anja , Talasz Heribert , Eder Iris E. , Klocker Helmut , Gnaiger Erich
Published: April 2016

Altered mitochondrial metabolism plays a pivotal role in the development and progression of various diseases, including cancer. Cell lines are frequently used as models to study mitochondrial (dys)function, but little is known about their mitochondrial respiration and metabolic properties in comparison to the primary tissue of origin. We have developed a method for assessment of oxidative phosphorylation in prostate tissue samples of only 2 mg wet weight using high‐resolution respirometry. Reliable protocols were established to investigate the respiratory activity of different segments of the mitochondrial electron transfer system (ETS) in mechanically permeabilized tissue biopsies. Additionally, the widely used immortalized prostate epithelial and fibroblast cell lines, RWPE1 and NAF, representing the major cell types in prostate tissue, were analyzed and compared to the tissue of origin. Our results show that mechanical treatment without chemical permeabilization agents or sample processing constitutes a reliable preparation method for OXPHOS analysis in small amounts of prostatic tissue typically obtained by prostate biopsy. The cell lines represented the bioenergetic properties of fresh tissue to a limited extent only. Particularly, tissue showed a higher oxidative capacity with succinate and glutamate, whereas pyruvate was a substrate supporting significantly higher respiratory activities in cell lines. Several fold higher zinc levels measured in tissue compared to cells confirmed the role of aconitase for prostate‐specific metabolism in agreement with observed respiratory properties. In conclusion, combining the flexibility of cell culture models and tissue samples for respirometric analysis are powerful tools for investigation of mitochondrial function and tissue‐specific metabolism.
Delayed autumn phenology in the Northern Hemisphere is related to change in both climate and spring phenology
Authors: Liu Qiang , Fu Yongshuo H. , Zhu Zaichun , Liu Yongwen , Liu Zhuo , Huang Mengtian , Janssens Ivan A. , Piao Shilong
Published: April 2016

The timing of the end of the vegetation growing season (EOS) plays a key role in terrestrial ecosystem carbon and nutrient cycles. Autumn phenology is, however, still poorly understood, and previous studies generally focused on few species or were very limited in scale. In this study, we applied four methods to extract EOS dates from NDVI records between 1982 and 2011 for the Northern Hemisphere, and determined the temporal correlations between EOS and environmental factors (i.e., temperature, precipitation and insolation), as well as the correlation between spring and autumn phenology, using partial correlation analyses. Overall, we observed a trend toward later EOS in ~70% of the pixels in Northern Hemisphere, with a mean rate of 0.18 ± 0.38 days yr−1. Warming preseason temperature was positively associated with the rate of EOS in most of our study area, except for arid/semi‐arid regions, where the precipitation sum played a dominant positive role. Interestingly, increased preseason insolation sum might also lead to a later date of EOS. In addition to the climatic effects on EOS, we found an influence of spring vegetation green‐up dates on EOS, albeit biome dependent. Our study, therefore, suggests that both environmental factors and spring phenology should be included in the modeling of EOS to improve the predictions of autumn phenology as well as our understanding of the global carbon and nutrient balances.
Home hemodialysis in children
Authors: Hothi Daljit K , Stronach Lynsey , Sinnott Kate
Published: April 2016

Pediatric home hemodialysis is infrequently performed despite a growing need globally among patients with end‐stage renal disease who do not have immediate access to a kidney transplant. In this review, we expand the scope of the Implementing Hemodialysis in the Home website and associated supplement published previously in Hemodialysis International and offer information tailored to the pediatric population. We describe the experience and outcomes of centers managing pediatric patients, and offer recommendations and practical tools to assist clinicians in providing quotidian dialysis for children, including infrastructural and staffing needs, equipment and prescriptions, and patient selection and training.
A retrospective analysis of triptan and dhe use for basilar and hemiplegic migraine
Authors: Mathew Paul G. , Krel Regina , Buddhdev Bhuvin , Ansari Hossein , Joshi Shivang G. , Spinner Warren D. , Klein Brad C.
Published: April 2016

Background

Patients with basilar migraine (BM) and hemiplegic migraine (HM) have been excluded from triptan and DHE clinical trials due to a potential risk of ischemic vascular events, and the FDA mandates that package labeling state that they are contraindicated in BM and HM. The objective of this study was to demonstrate that triptans and DHE can be used for the abortive treatment of BM and HM without significant adverse ischemic vascular events.

Methods

A retrospective chart review of patients with BM features or HM who received acute abortive treatment with either triptans or DHE was conducted at 4 headache centers to assess the frequency of ischemic vascular events after administration. The diagnoses of BM or HM were made by headache specialists based on The International Classification of Headache Disorders, 2nd edition (ICHD‐II). Searchable terms included BM, vertigo, dysarthria, diplopia, hemiplegia/hemiparesis, facial droop, weakness, confusion, altered consciousness, confusion, ataxia, and aphasia, as well as all triptans or DHE.

Results

The study included 67 patients with BM features and 13 patients with HM. Among those receiving triptans, 40 were in the BM group and 5 were in the HM group. Among those receiving DHE, 27 were included in the BM group and 8 were in the HM group. No side effects of stroke or myocardial infarction were reported. In the triptan group, 5 patients reported adverse effects that included GI upset, rash, neck dystonia, nightmares, and flushing. In the DHE group, 5 patients had adverse events that included chest tightness, dystonic reaction, transient asymptomatic anterior T wave inversion, and agitation.

Conclusion

In this retrospective study, triptans and DHE were used with no reported, subsequent acute/subacute ischemic vascular events for the abortive treatment of migraines with basilar and hemiplegic‐type features. Although the small sample sizes generated theoretical statistical event rates of 4.5% for BM and 23% for HM, there has been no clear evidence that BM and HM carry an actual elevated risk for vascular events compared with migraine with aura.
A 21–35 kDa Mixed Protein Component from Helicobacter pylori Activates Mast Cells Effectively in Chronic Spontaneous Urticaria
Authors: Tan Ran‐Jing , Sun He‐Qiang , Zhang Wei , Yuan Han‐Mei , Li Bin , Yan Hong‐Tao , Lan Chun‐Hui , Yang Jun , Zhao Zhuo , Wu Jin‐Jin , Wu Chao
Published: April 2016

Background

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) seem to involve in the etiology of chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU). But studies of the pathogenic mechanism are very little.

Methods

In this study, we detected the serum‐specific anti‐H. pylori IgG and IgE antibodies in 211 CSU and 137 normal subjects by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), evaluated the direct activation effects of H. pylori preparations and its protein components on human LAD2 mast cell line in vitro, and analyzed the specific protein ingredients and functions of the most effective H. pylori mixed protein component using liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry and ELISA assay.

Results

In CSU patients, the positive rate of anti‐H. pylori IgG positive rate was significantly higher than that in normal controls, and the anti‐H. pylori IgE levels had no statistical difference between H. pylori‐infected patients with and without CSU. Further studies suggested that H. pylori preparations can directly activate human LAD2 mast cell line in a dose‐dependent manner and its most powerful protein component was a mixture of 21–35 kDa proteins. Moreover, the 21–35 kDa mixed protein component mainly contained 23 kinds of proteins, which can stimulate the release of histamine, TNF‐a, IL‐3, IFN‐γ, and LTB4 by LAD2 cells in a dose‐dependent or time‐dependent manner.

Conclusions

A 21–35 kDa mixed protein component should be regarded as the most promising pathogenic factor contributing to the CSU associated with H. pylori infection.
Information‐seeking behaviour and information needs of LGBTQ health professionals: a follow‐up study
Authors: Morris Martin , Roberto K.R.
Published: April 2016

Background

Except for one study in 2004, the literature has no data on the information‐seeking behaviour of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer/questioning (LGBTQ) health professionals. After a decade of change for LGBTQ people, and the growth of electronic information sources and social networks, it is appropriate to revisit this subject.

Objectives

To gain an updated understanding of the information‐seeking behaviour of LGBTQ health professionals and of how medical libraries can provide a culturally competent service to such users.

Methods

A mixed‐methods approach was adopted combining a Web‐based questionnaire with email follow‐up discussions. One hundred and twenty‐three complete responses were received, mostly from the USA and Canada, between November 2012 and October 2013.

Results

LGBTQ health professionals remain more comfortable seeking LGBTQ health information from a medical librarian whom they know to be LGBTQ because they perceive LGBTQ librarians as more likely to have specialist knowledge, or through concern that non‐LGBTQ librarians may be more likely to react in a stigmatising or discriminatory way. The study also provides evidence suggesting that online chat has marginal appeal for respondents seeking LGBTQ health information, despite its anonymity. Medical libraries seeking to demonstrate their cultural competency should provide visible evidence of this, such as through the creation of dedicated resource lists, promotion of LGBTQ literature on the library's website, and display of other symbols or statements supporting diversity.

Conclusion

Opportunities exist for LGBTQ health professionals and medical librarians to work together to ensure that medical libraries are culturally competent and welcoming spaces for LGBTQ patrons, that library collections match their needs, and in the creation of guides to ensure maximum access to the results of LGBTQ health research. Medical libraries should also consider nominating and, if necessary, training a specialist in LGBTQ health information. Such measures are more likely to be successful than reliance on online chat, despite contrary suggestions in the literature.
Endodontic regeneration and tooth revitalization in immature infected sheep teeth
Authors: Altaii M. , Cathro P. , Broberg M. , Richards L.
Published: April 2016

Aim

To examine the response of immature sheep teeth with infected root canal systems to a commonly used pulp regeneration/revitalization protocol.

Methodology

Immature mandibular right first incisors in four sheep were mechanically exposed and the pulps infected. The mandibular left first incisors remained intact as controls. Five weeks later, the experimental root canals were chemo‐mechanically cleaned and dressed with a triple‐antibiotic paste for 4 weeks, before bleeding was induced inside the canal by mechanically irritating the periapical tissues. A collagen dressing was packed coronally onto the blood clot and the canal orifice sealed with mineral trioxide aggregate and glass ionomer cement. Six months later, the mandibles were collected and the teeth with associated periapical tissues were analysed radiographically, with CT scanning, and by histology. The changes in root length, dentine thickness in the apical third (mesially and distally), and apical diameter were analysed using Student's t‐test.

Results

Radiographs revealed significant increases in root length, root wall thickness and narrowing of the apical diameter of the canals after treatment (P < 0.05), with no significant differences in root diameters found between the experimental and the control teeth (P > 0.05) on both radiographic and CT results. Root maturation and thickening of the walls due to hard tissue deposition was confirmed by histology in all experimental teeth. Hard tissues in the apical portion of the root were more developed than in the coronal portion.

Conclusion

Endodontic regeneration and tooth revitalization procedures in immature infected sheep teeth showed positive outcomes with similar increases in root length and development to the control teeth.
Viscosity and Liquidus Temperature of Ternary Glasses Close to the Eutectic Composition in the CaO–Al2O3–SiO2 System
Authors: Veit Ulrike , Rüssel Christian , Houet Yves , Laurent Dimitri
Published: April 2016

Thermal properties of ternary glass‐forming systems within the known CaO–Al2O3–SiO2 system were evaluated. Different glass compositions near the lowest eutectic composition (around a liquidus temperature of 1170°C) within the CaO–Al2O3–SiO2 system were melted from pure raw materials. The investigated target range of compositions in wt% was between 60.5 and 63.5 SiO2, 13.1 and 16.1 Al2O3, and 21.4 and 25.4 CaO. The chemical compositions, the glass transition temperatures, and the temperatures attributed to viscosities of 10³ dPa*s were determined experimentally. It was of special interest to obtain information of all these properties of the glasses and the effect of small composition changes hereon. The liquidus temperature changed less than expected for a composition close to the eutectic composition. Temperatures at a viscosity of 10³ dPa*s varied between 1263 and 1363 °C ± 6°C. A liquidus temperature of 1157°C ± 7°C (with a confidence interval of 95%) of the eutectic composition was found. The results reported here may be useful for understanding and improvement of the modeling within the CaO–Al2O3–SiO2 glass system.
Dissolution of Bioactive Glasses in Acidic Solutions with the Focus on Lactic Acid
Authors: Björkvik Leena , Wang Xiaoju , Hupa Leena
Published: April 2016

This work reports the dissolution of bioactive glasses in acidic solutions. The focus was on lactic acid, thus mimicking the conditions that may develop locally during in vivo degradation of polylactic acid/bioactive glass composites. First, the dissolution of glasses 45S5, S53P4, and S68 was studied in 1.2 m lactic acid. The leaching of ions from 45S5 in lactic acid solution was further compared with the reactions in hydrochloric acid solution. Finally, Tris‐buffered solutions in which the pH was adjusted to 7.4 using hydrochloric or lactic acid were used to study the effect of the acidic components on the dissolution of 45S5. The dissolution extent followed the initial acid concentrations: greater in lactic acid and lower in hydrochloric acid of the same initial pH. Rapid, preferential dissolution of Na, Ca, and P took place in lactic acid solution, thus suggesting that locally high concentrations of degradation products of lactic acid may enhance the dissolution of bioactive glass in Polylactic acid composites. When solution pH exceeded 4, calcium phosphate started to form on the glass surface.
Ocular findings in patients with alopecia areata
Authors: Esmer Oktay , Karadag Remzi , Cakici Ozgur , Bilgili Serap Gunes , Demircan Yuhanize Tas , Bayramlar Huseyin , Karadag Ayse S.
Published: April 2016

Objectives

This study investigated ocular findings in patients with alopecia.

Methods

A total of 42 patients with alopecia (31 male, 11 female; 84 eyes) and 45 healthy individuals (28 male, 17 female; 90 eyes) were enrolled in the study. Of the patients with alopecia, 34 had alopecia areata, seven had alopecia universalis, and one had ophiasis alopecia. Seven patients had eyebrow involvement and seven had eyelash involvement. Autorefractometry, keratometry, visual acuity, central corneal thickness and intraocular pressure (IOP) measurements, bilateral anterior and posterior segment examinations, Schirmer's tests, and visual field examinations were performed in both groups.

Results

The mean ± standard deviation age of the subjects was 25.21 ± 10.88 years in the alopecia group and 28.24 ± 9.31 years in the control group. Lens abnormalities were observed in 35 eyes in the alopecia group and in 11 eyes in the control group (P < 0.05). Posterior segment abnormalities were seen in 29 eyes in the alopecia group and four eyes in the control group (P < 0.05). There were no statistically significant differences in age, sex, visual acuity, refractive error, keratometric findings, IOP, central corneal thickness, perimetry, or Schirmer's test results between the alopecia and control groups (P > 0.05).

Conclusions

Patients with alopecia may have more lenticular and retinal findings than normal individuals, but those findings do not interfere with visual acuity. Close surveillance for the early onset of cataract formation is important in patients with alopecia.
Feasibility of daylight‐mediated photodynamic therapy for actinic keratosis throughout the year in Central and South America: a meteorological study
Authors: Grinblat Beni , Galimberti Gaston , Pantoja Gonzalo , Sanclemente Gloria , Lopez Miguel , Alcala Daniel , Torezan Luís , Kerob Delphine , Pascual Thierry , Chouela Edgardo
Published: April 2016

Background

Daylight‐mediated photodynamic therapy (DL‐PDT) is an efficacious treatment option for thin actinic keratosis (AK) that offers advantages over conventional PDT in terms of tolerability, treatment duration, and cost. A clinical study conducted in Australia determined the mean irradiance during a 2‐hour exposure to be 305.8 W/m2 (range: 40–585 W/m2). The protoporphyrin IX light dose is influenced by latitude, weather conditions, and time of year. A recent study of meteorological data concluded that DL‐PDT can be performed effectively throughout the year in Australia.

Objectives

Based on the same hypothesis and applying the same methodology, the present study investigated the suitability of daylight to perform DL‐PDT in Central and South America.

Methods

Solar radiation and weather data were gathered and analyzed to assess daylight irradiance (light intensity) throughout a full year across 32 geographical locations in Central and South America.

Results

The minimum average daily solar irradiance reported was above 305.8 W/m2 in all locations investigated throughout the year. Annual averages of daily irradiance ranged from 578 W/m2 in Chihuahua, Mexico, to 321 W/m2 in Puerto Montt, Chile.

Conclusions

Daylight‐mediated PDT for AK can be performed effectively throughout the year in Central and South America given that weather conditions permit a comfortable 2‐hour direct exposure to daylight.
Teledermoscopy in doubtful melanocytic lesions: is it really useful?
Authors: de Giorgi Vincenzo , Gori Alessia , Savarese Imma , D'Errico Antonietta , Grazzini Marta , Papi Federica , Maio Vincenza , Covarelli Piero , Urso Carmelo , Massi Daniela
Published: April 2016

Introduction

The diagnosis of cutaneous pigmented lesions remains a challenge for both dermatologists and pathologists. Our aim was to determine the diagnostic concordance between the conventional face‐to‐face diagnosis and the telediagnosis of 10 dermatologists with expertise in dermato‐oncology of 10 challenging pigmented lesions.

Methods

Using a store‐and‐forward teledermatology method, clinical and dermoscopic digital images of all selected lesions were transmitted via e‐mail to 10 dermatologists. Dermatologists were called to provide their telediagnoses with a step‐by‐step approach. When the dermatologists responded with their first clinical telediagnosis, they received a second email that contained dermoscopic images of the 10 cases. Final histopathological diagnosis was considered the gold standard for comparison with face‐to‐face and teledermatology diagnoses in statistical analysis.

Results

Face‐to‐face results indicated moderate agreement between clinical and histopathological diagnoses (K = 0.6). After the first clinical step, interobserver concordance of telediagnosis was lower than face‐to‐face diagnosis (K = 0.52). After the second dermoscopy step, the concordance declined further (K = 0.38).

Conclusions

Teledermatology was inferior to face‐to‐face dermatology. Moreover, the diagnostic concordance of telediagnosis decreased after the teledermoscopic step. This finding may be justified by the dermoscopic difficulty of the selected lesions, including Spitzoid proliferations and atypical melanocytic nevi of the elderly. These lesions may represent a potential diagnostic pitfall given their confounding dermoscopic aspects.
Infantile hemangioma status by dynamic infrared thermography: A preliminary study
Authors: Burkes Shoná A. , Patel Manish , Adams Denise M. , Hammill Adrienne M. , Eaton Kenneth P. , Randall Wickett R. , Visscher Marty O.
Published: April 2016

Background

Infantile hemangiomas (IH) are initially warm due to increased proliferation and perfusion then involute with apoptosis and reduced perfusion. Objective quantitative evaluation of IH treatment response is essential for improving outcomes. We applied a functional imaging method, dynamic infrared (IR) thermography, to investigate IH status versus control skin and over time.

Materials and methods

A preliminary prospective observational study was conducted among 25 subjects with superficial or mixed IHs (< 19 months) over 59 clinic visits. Infrared images of IHs and control sites, standardized color images, and three‐dimensional images were obtained. Tissue responses following application and removal of a cold stress were recorded with video IR thermography. Outcomes included areas under the curve during cooling (AUCcool) and rewarming (AUCrw) and thermal intensity distribution maps.

Results

AUCcool and AUCrw were significantly higher and cooling rate slower for IHs versus uninvolved tissue indicating greater heat, presumably due to greater perfusion and metabolism for the IH. IR distribution maps showed specific areas of high and low temperature. Significant changes in IH thermal activity were reflected in the difference (AUCcool – AUCrw), with 6.2 at 2.2 months increasing to 37.6 at 12.8 months. IH cooling rate increased with age, indicating slower recovery, and interpreted as reduced proliferation and/or involution.

Conclusions

Dynamic IR thermography was a well‐tolerated, quantitative functional imaging modality appropriate for the clinic, particularly when structural changes, i.e., height, volume, color, were not readily observed. It may assist in monitoring progress, individualizing treatment, and evaluating therapies. Clinical Trial Registration: www.clinicaltrials.gov (Identifier NCT02061735)
Clinical characteristics of patients with facial psoriasis in Malaysia
Authors: Syed Nong Chek Sharifah Rosniza , Robinson Suganthy , Mohd Affandi Azura , Baharum Nurakmal
Published: April 2016

Background

Psoriasis involving the face is visible and can cause considerable emotional distress to patients. Its presence may also confer a poorer prognosis for the patient. This study sought to evaluate the characteristics of facial psoriasis in Malaysia.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study conducted using data from the Malaysian Psoriasis Registry from 2007 to 2011. Specific risk factors, i.e., age, age of onset, gender, duration of disease, obesity group, body surface area, Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI), family history of psoriasis, nail involvement, psoriatic arthritis, phototherapy, systemic therapy, clinic visit, days of work/school, and hospital admission due to psoriasis in the last 6 months were analyzed.

Results

A total of 48.4% of patients had facial psoriasis. Variables significantly associated with facial psoriasis are younger age, younger age of onset of psoriasis of ≤ 40 years, male, severity of psoriasis involving >10% of the body surface area, higher DLQI of >10, nail involvement, and history of hospitalization due to psoriasis.

Conclusion

This study found that facial psoriasis is not as rare as previously thought. Ambient ultraviolet light, sebum, and contact with chemicals from facial products may reduce the severity of facial psoriasis, but these factors do not reduce the prevalence of facial psoriasis. The association with younger age, younger age of onset, higher percentage of body surface area involvement, higher DLQI of > 10, nail involvement, and hospitalization due to psoriasis support the notion that facial psoriasis is a marker of severe disease.
Motivating systems‐oriented research on environmental and policy changes for obesity prevention
Authors: Cheskin L. J. , Frutchey R. , McDermott A. Y. , Esposito L. , Lee B. Y. , Kumanyika S.
Published: April 2016

Background

Research on the types of interventions needed for population‐level prevention of childhood obesity in complex societal systems can benefit from greater use of systems‐science concepts and tools.

Objectives

We report outcomes of a funding programme promoting incorporation of systems‐science approaches into studies of imminent policy or environmental changes potentially impacting childhood obesity.

Methods

Seven funding cycles over 3 years yielded 172 initial submissions from 29 US states and 25 other countries were analyzed.

Results

Submissions focused primarily on aspects of school or child‐care settings, parks and recreational settings, or access to healthy food; about half reflected attention to systems perspectives.

Conclusions

Analysis of initial submissions as well as the 15 funded projects showed some success in motivating use of systems concepts and tools but suggested the need for a more focused effort to educate and prepare the childhood obesity prevention research community for this potentially crucial type of research.
Oral glucose tolerance test unravels circulating miRNAs associated with insulin resistance in obese preschoolers
Authors: Masotti A. , Baldassarre A. , Fabrizi M. , Olivero G. , Loreti M. C. , Giammaria P. , Veronelli P. , Graziani M. P. , Manco M.
Published: April 2016

Background

Circulating microRNAs (miRNAs) may act as biomarkers of metabolic disturbances.

Objective

The aim of this study was to identify serum miRNAs signature of early insulin resistance in obese preschoolers.

Methods

Twelve obese children, aged 2–6 years, six insulin resistant (IR) and six controls were selected being age‐matched, sex‐matched and body mass index‐matched. Profiling of 179 circulating miRNAs, known to be widely expressed in the bloodstream, was investigated by quantitative polymerase chain reaction at fasting and 120 min following a standard oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT).

Results

Twenty‐one miRNAs were differentially regulated in IR obese preschoolers. miR‐200c‐3p, miR‐190a and miR‐95 were differently regulated both at fasting and 120 min after the OGTT. In controls, the fold changes of some miRNAs were correlated with Δglucose0‐120 (miR‐660, miR‐26b‐5p and miR‐22‐3p: p = 0.005 for all) and Δinsulin0‐120 (miR‐660 and miR‐22‐3p: p = 0.02 for both and miR‐423‐5p: p = 0.042). In IR patients, miR‐1 fold changes were correlated with Δglucose0‐120 (r = −0.786; p = 0.036) and Δinsulin0‐120 (r = −0.821; p = 0.023).

Conclusions

Our study identifies circulating miR‐200c‐3p, miR‐190a and miR‐95 as biomarkers of insulin resistance in obese preschoolers, being differentially regulated in IR patients both in fasting condition and after the OGTT. Expression of some circulating miRNAs seems reflecting glucose and insulin excursion following the OGTT differently in controls and IR obese preschoolers.
The breadth and depth of multidimensional child poverty in China
Authors: Wu Yichao , Qi Di
Published: April 2016

This study analysed the multidimensional child poverty status in China between 1989 and 2009, using the China Health and Nutrition survey data. Based on the Alkire–Foster method for measuring poverty, a multidimensional poverty index was calculated and further decomposed into seven deprivation dimensions: nutrition, water, sanitation, health, education, shelter and information. The study has four main findings: (1) The multidimensional child poverty rate in China declined gradually where the sanitation facility was most severely deprived; (2) The poverty gap between rich and poor provinces remained over the years; (3) The urban–rural disparity was reduced in all seven dimensions; (4) The poorest of the poor climbed out of ultra‐poverty and became the moderately poor or even the non‐poor.
Career workshops as a non‐traditional research model for enhanced relationships between higher education and the labour market
Authors: MmaB Modise Oitshepile
Published: April 2016

Discussions surrounding the mismatch between labour market needs and graduate competences are timeworn but to date nothing much has been achieved. Solutions such as tracer studies, conferences, attachments and internships have been tried and have not yet brought satisfactory results. This paper contributes yet another strategy, career workshops. Though not commonly used, this approach can add significant impact because it provides a free flow of information and highly interactive learning experiences and can establish synergy between labour market needs and the needs of higher education institutions. A well‐organized career workshop provides opportunity for discussions, displays and other interactions which are rich strategies for data collection. Unfortunately, these workshops are usually not regarded as a research approach, hence they are referred herein as a non‐traditional approach. However, a workshop exhibits most of the characteristics of empirical research: it has a topic, objectives and systematic steps to follow as well as clear procedures for arriving at lessons. The outcomes are beneficial and they include networking, giving feedback to program staff and promoting the public image of adult education. The implications for both the labour market and higher institutions of learning include: increased collaboration between the two; improved understanding of products; regular exchange of ideas and implementation of lessons learned. Effective use of career workshops as research strategies should be supported by clear philosophies, structures and resources.
Ruling out low‐ and moderate‐risk probability pulmonary emboli without radiological imaging: appraisal of a clinical prediction algorithm after implementation and revision with higher D‐dimer thresholds
Authors: Woo Y. P. , Thien F.
Published: April 2016

Background

A study conducted at an Australian hospital between 2007 and 2009 led to the implementation of a clinical prediction algorithm for pulmonary embolism (PE) consisting of the Wells criteria and D‐dimer testing. Since then, studies conducted in other countries have recommended new D‐dimer cut‐offs to the algorithm.

Aims

To appraise the implemented algorithm and see if its ability to stratify patient risk has been maintained and to test retrospectively new D‐dimer thresholds.

Methods

Data from 300 patients with computed tomography pulmonary angiograms (CTPA) scans between February 2010 and March 2012 were included. Results were reviewed for algorithm compliance, patient risk stratification and PE prevalence. A higher D‐dimer and an age‐adjusted D‐dimer cut‐off were then retrospectively applied to the algorithm and results were re‐evaluated.

Results

Pre‐test probabilities between the current and original study remain within 1%, with slightly higher PE prevalence in the original study (12.7% vs 13.8%). Of the imaged cases, 14% (42/300) were not compliant with the algorithm. Of the low‐ and moderate‐risk patients that underwent D‐dimer testing, the retrospective application of 0.5 mg/L D‐dimer cut‐off resulted in a further 12.1% (95% confidence intervals 8.0–17.1%) of patients excluded from undergoing a CTPA. When combined with an age‐adjusted D‐dimer cut‐off, 27.9% (60/215 95% confidence intervals 22.0–34.3%) were excluded from undergoing a CTPA.

Conclusion

The implemented algorithm has maintained risk stratification and PE prevalence results. Along with evidence in other studies, we have shown that raising the D‐dimer and applying age‐adjusted D‐dimer cut‐offs might improve the efficiency of the clinical prediction algorithm in patients aged over 50.
Influence of food and lifestyle on the risk of developing inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Niewiadomski O. , Studd C. , Wilson J. , Williams J. , Hair C. , Knight R. , Prewett E. , Dabkowski P. , Alexander S. , Allen B. , Dowling D. , Connell W. , Desmond P. , Bell S.
Published: April 2016

Background

The Barwon area in Australia has one of the highest incidence rates of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and therefore is an ideal location to study the impact of environmental exposures on the disease's development.

Aim

To study these exposures prior to the development of IBD in a population‐based cohort.

Method

One hundred and thirty‐two incident cases (81 Crohn disease (CD) and 51 ulcerative colitis (UC)) from an IBD registry and 104 controls replied to the International Organization of Inflammatory Bowel Diseases environmental questionnaire. This included 87 questions about pre‐illness exposures that included childhood illnesses, vaccinations, breastfeeding, house amenities, pets and swimming, diet and smoking.

Results

The factors associated with CD included smoking (odds ratio (OR): 1.42, confidence interval (CI): 1–2.02, P = 0.029); childhood events, including tonsillectomy (OR: 1.74, CI: 1.15–2.6, P = 0.003) and chicken pox infection (OR: 3.89, CI: 1.61–9.4, P = 0.005) and pre‐diagnosis intake of frequent fast food (OR: 2.26, CI: 1.76–4.33, P = 0.003). In UC, the risk factors included smoking (OR: 1.39, CI: 1.1–1.92, P = 0.026) and pre‐diagnosis intake of frequent fast food (OR: 2.91, CI: 1.54–5.58, P < 0.001), and high caffeine intake was protective (OR: 0.51, 95% CI: 0.3–0.87, P = 0.002). Other protective exposures for UC included high fruit intake (OR: 0.59, CI: 0.4–0.88, P = 0.003) and having pets as a child (OR: 0.36, CI: 0.2–0.79, P = 0.001).

Conclusion

This first Australian population‐based study of environmental risk factors confirms that smoking, childhood immunological events and dietary factors play a role in IBD development; while high caffeine intake and pet ownership offer a protective effect.
Sequential variable neighborhood descent variants: an empirical study on the traveling salesman problem
Authors: Mjirda Anis , Todosijević Raca , Hanafi Saïd , Hansen Pierre , Mladenović Nenad
Published: April 2016

In a single local search algorithm, several neighborhood structures are usually explored. The simplest way is to define a single neighborhood as the union of all predefined neighborhood structures; the other possibility is to make an order (or sequence) of the predefined neighborhoods, and to use them in the first improvement or the best improvement fashion, following that order. In this work, first we classify possible variants of sequential use of neighborhoods and then, empirically analyze them in solving the classical traveling salesman problem (TSP). We explore the most commonly used TSP neighborhood structures, such as 2‐opt and insertion neighborhoods. In our empirical study, we tested 76 different such heuristics on 15,200 random test instances. Several interesting observations are derived. In addition, the two best of 76 heuristics (used as local searches within a variable neighborhood search) are tested on 23 test instances taken from the TSP library (TSPLIB). It appears that the union of neighborhoods does not perform well.
Microwave Processing of Actively Seeded Precursor for Fabrication of Polymer Derived Ceramics
Authors: Zunjarrao Suraj C. , Dyjak Pawel , Rahman Arif , Metzger John D. , Singh Raman P.
Published: April 2016

An innovative, faster and nonconventional processing technique is demonstrated for preparing silicon carbide‐based ceramics derived from polymer precursor. The technique is based on microwave‐induced pyrolysis of an actively seeded, high‐purity preceramic polymer that leads to rapid fabrication of silicon carbide components. It is successfully demonstrated that it is feasible to carry out microwave‐induced pyrolysis by seeding the polymer precursor with very low volume fractions of micrometer and nanometer‐sized metal and dielectric fillers. This process allows for rapid, net‐shape, and potentially low‐cost fabrication of silicon carbide‐based materials. Mechanical properties and microstructure of the silicon carbide‐based composites fabricated using this process are characterized.
The Effects of Na2O and SiO2 on Liquid Phase Sintering of Bayer Al2O3
Authors: Frueh Tobias , Kupp Elizabeth R. , Compson Charles , Atria Joe , Messing Gary L.
Published: April 2016

To determine how grain‐boundary composition affects the liquid phase sintering of MgO‐free Bayer process aluminas, samples were singly or co‐doped with up to 1029 ppm Na2O and 603 ppm SiO2 and heated at 1525°C up to 8 h. Na2O retards densification of samples from the onset of sintering and up to hold times of 30 min at 1525°C compared to the undoped samples, but similar to the as‐received, MgO‐free Al2O3, Na2O‐doped samples sinter to 98% density with average grain sizes of ~3 μm after 8 h. Increasing SiO2 concentration significantly retards densification at all hold times up to 8 h. The estimated viscosities (20−400 Pa·s) of the 0.3 to 1.8 nm thick siliceous grain‐boundary films in this study indicate that diffusion greatly depends on the composition of the liquid grain‐boundary phase. For low Na2O/SiO2 ratios, densification of Bayer Al2O3 at 1525°C is controlled by diffusion of Al3+ through the grain‐boundary liquid, whereas for high Na2O/SiO2 ratios, densification can be governed by either the interface reaction (i.e., dissolution) of Al2O3 or diffusion of Al3+. Increasing Na2O in SiO2‐doped samples increases diffusion of Al3+ and Al2O3 solubility in the liquid, and thus densification increases by 1%. Based on these findings, we conclude that Bayer Al2O3 densification can be manipulated by adjusting the Na2O to SiO2 ratio.
Morphologically Tuned Aluminum Hydrous Oxides and Their Calcined Products
Authors: Ghosh Sourav , Das Rituparna , Naskar Milan Kanti
Published: April 2016

Aluminum hydrous oxides and their derivatives were prepared by a facile solvothermal process in the presence of formamide, dimethyl formamide, and diethyl formamide as solvents at 150°C/24 h. The as‐synthesized products were calcined at 500°C/1 h to obtain γ‐Al2O3. The crystallization behavior and microstructure of the pre‐ and postcalcination products were studied by X‐ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy, respectively. The surface textural properties of the calcined samples were investigated by N2 adsorption–desorption analysis. The formamide and its derivatives played a significant role in tuning textural properties of the calcined products. The diethyl formamide based sample exhibited enhanced Brunauer–Emmett–Teller surface area and pore volume of 517 m2 g−1 and 2 cm3 g−1, respectively. Both the as‐prepared and calcined samples showed variable morphologies and crystallinity using different solvents. The trend in morphological changes as nanosheet → nanorod → nanowire bundles occurred in the presence of formamide, dimethylformamide, and diethylformamide, respectively. A tentative mechanism has been illustrated for the formation of the products.
The effectiveness of an e‐learning course on medication calculation in nursing students: a clustered quasi‐experimental study
Authors: Van Lancker Aurélie , Baldewijns Katleen , Verhaeghe Rik , Robays Hugo , Buyle Franky , Colman Roos , Van Hecke Ann
Published: April 2016

Aim

To evaluate the effectiveness of an e‐learning course compared with a face‐to‐face lecture on medication calculation.

Background

The current knowledge on medication calculation of nursing students and nurses is insufficient to provide safe care.

Design

A stratified‐clustered quasi‐experimental study.

Methods

A random selection of nursing schools were allocated to the e‐learning course (intervention group) (seven schools; 189 students) or face‐to‐face lecture (control group) (six schools, 222 students). Students in both groups completed a validated medication calculation test (maximum score: 16) prior to the course (T0), immediately after the course (T1) and 3 months later (T2). A linear mixed model was used for data analysis.

Results

Medication calculation skills improved significantly more by the face‐to‐face lecture than e‐learning course. Students in both groups significantly improved in medication calculation skills immediately after the course (T1) and 3 months later. The results flattened at T2 with a significant decline in the intervention group between T1 and T2 and a non‐significant decline in the control group. Based on a subgroup analysis, improvement in medication calculation skills at T2 could only be observed in vocational‐level (sub degree) nursing students receiving a face‐to‐face course.

Conclusions

Both medication calculation courses had a positive effect on medication calculation skills. Students receiving traditional face‐to‐face lecture improved significantly more than the students receiving the e‐learning course.
Morality and Interpretation: Commentary on Jonathan Glover's Alien Landscapes?
Authors: Kennett Jeanette
Published: April 2016

What is required of the interpreter of disordered minds and what can we learn from the process? Jonathan Glover's book focuses on human interpretation and its role in psychiatry. His hope is that a more careful and sensitive exploration of minds that are very different from our own, will assist us to answer a range of important questions about human agency, identity and responsibility. In this commentary I will focus on the process and purpose of interpretation and expand on some of the moral issues that arise out of the interpretive challenges posed by mental disorders.