bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of fertilisation on amino acid mobilisation by a plant‐manipulating insect
Authors: DARDEAU FRANCE , BODY MÉLANIE , BERTHIER ALEXANE , MIARD FLORIE , CHRISTIDÈS JEAN‐PHILIPPE , FEINARD‐DURANCEAU MURIEL , BRIGNOLAS FRANCK , GIRON DAVID , LIEUTIER FRANÇOIS , SALLÉ AURÉLIEN
Published: September 2015

1. Phytophagous insects frequently manipulate their host‐plant to improve their immediate environment. This generally implies substantial modifications of host metabolism, and sometimes an alteration of nitrogen allocation within the host‐plant. However, the outcome of plant manipulation on amino acid or protein content can be modulated by environmental factors and host‐plant traits.

2. It was investigated whether the pseudogall induced by the aphid Phloeomyzus passerinii (Signoret) (Aphididae: Phloeomyzinae) in the bark of its host‐plant affects the amino acid content in bark tissues, and whether the strength of the modification is modulated by the fertilisation regime and/or the resistance level of the host‐plant. The development of aphid colonies on a resistant and a susceptible poplar genotype, under three fertilisation regimes, was studied. After the development of colonies, the free and protein‐bound amino acid content of the infested bark were quantified.

3. Fertilisation enhanced poplar growth and increased the free amino acid content of bark tissues. Infestation also triggered accumulations of both free and protein‐bound amino acids in the feeding sites, but in the susceptible genotype only. The increase in amino acid content was more pronounced when fertilisation was low, and fertilisation did not enhance aphid development.

4. In conclusion, infestation by P. passerinii triggers an accumulation of amino acids, but the effect is influenced by both the fertilisation regime and the resistance level of the host‐plant. This suggests that P. passerinii could affect the allocation of nutrients within trees during outbreaks.
Design of Randomized, Double-Blind, Evaluation in Secondary Stroke Prevention Comparing the Efficacy and Safety of the Oral Thrombin Inhibitor Dabigatran Etexilate vs. Acetylsalicylic Acid in Patients with Embolic Stroke of Undetermined Source (Re-Spect Esus)
Authors: Diener Hans-Christoph , Easton J. Donald , Granger Christopher B. , Cronin Lisa , Duffy Christine , Cotton Daniel , Brueckmann Martina , Sacco Ralph L.
Published: September 2015

Rationale

Cryptogenic ischemic strokes constitute 20–30% of ischemic strokes, the majority of which are embolic strokes of undetermined source. The standard preventive treatment in these patients is usually acetylsalicylic acid.

Aim

The Randomized, double-blind, Evaluation in secondary Stroke Prevention comparing the EfficaCy and safety of the oral Thrombin inhibitor dabigatran etexilate vs. acetylsalicylic acid in patients with Embolic Stroke of Undetermined Source (RE-SPECT ESUS) is designed to determine whether the oral thrombin inhibitor dabigatran, taken within three-months after embolic stroke of undetermined source, is superior to acetylsalicylic acid for prevention of recurrent stroke and to characterize the safety of dabigatran in this setting.

Design

Prospective, randomized, double-blind, multicenter trial in approximately 6000 patients and 550 centers with embolic stroke of undetermined source. Subjects are randomized to dabigatran or acetylsalicylic acid and treated for an expected minimum of six-months and up to approximately three-years. It is an event-driven trial aiming for 353 adjudicated primary outcome events.

Study outcomes

The primary efficacy outcome is time to first recurrent stroke (ischemic, hemorrhagic, or unspecified). Key secondary outcomes are time to first ischemic stroke and time to first occurrence in the composite outcome of nonfatal stroke, nonfatal myocardial infarction, and cardiovascular death. The primary safety outcome is major hemorrhage, including symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage.

Discussion

Acetylsalicylic acid is the most common antithrombotic given to patients with embolic strokes of undetermined source to reduce recurrence risk. This trial will determine whether anticoagulation with dabigatran is more effective than acetylsalicylic acid, and acceptably safe.
Infants Associate Praise and Admonishment with Fair and Unfair Individuals
Authors: DesChamps Trent D. , Eason Arianne E. , Sommerville Jessica A.
Published: September 2015

Recent evidence suggests that infants possess a rudimentary sensitivity to fairness: Infants expect resources to be distributed fairly and equally, and prefer individuals that distribute resources fairly over those that do so unfairly. The goal of this work was to determine whether infants' evaluations of fair and unfair individuals also includes an understanding that fair individuals are worthy of praise and unfair individuals are worthy of admonishment. After watching individuals distribute goods fairly or unfairly to recipients, 15‐month‐old (Experiments 1 and 2) and 13‐month‐old (Experiment 3) infants took part in a test phase in which they saw only the distributors' faces accompanied by praise or admonishment. Across all experiments, infants differentially shifted their visual attention to images of the fair and unfair distributors as a function of the accompanying praise or admonishment, although the direction in which they did so varied by age. Thus, by the start of the second year of life, infants appear to perceive fair individuals as morally praiseworthy and unfair individuals as morally blameworthy.
Mothers’ group participation: associations with social capital, social support and mental well‐being
Authors: Strange Cecily , Bremner Alexandra , Fisher Colleen , Howat Peter , Wood Lisa
Published: September 2015

Aim

To investigate the relationships between participation in mothers’ groups and social capital, social support and mental well‐being measures for mothers whose oldest child was 0‐5 years.

Background

Evaluations of facilitated mothers’ groups have found positive benefits for information sharing and support. Mothers’ groups often continue as parent‐led groups; however, little is known about the potential benefits of ongoing participation compared with non‐participation.

Design

Cross‐sectional survey.

Methods

Data were collected through a survey from March 2013–January 2014 in Perth, Western Australia. The data from a subgroup of mothers (N = 313) whose oldest child was 0‐5 years of age were analysed using multivariable regression. Participation in mothers’ groups in the previous 12 months was investigated for associations with social capital {Neighbourhood Cohesion Index (NCI); Families, Social Capital and Citizenship Survey (FSCCS) and Reciprocity}; social support {Medical Outcomes Study‐Social Support Survey (MOS‐SSS) and Parent Support Outside Home Scale (PSOHS)}; and mental well‐being {Warwick Edinburgh Mental Well‐Being Scale (WEMWBS)}. Participation was measured as three groups – locally, outside area of residence and non‐participation.

Results

Mothers who participated in mothers’ groups locally scored significantly higher than those who had not participated in mothers’ group for ‘social capital’ (NCI,FSCCS, Reciprocity), ‘social support’ (MOS‐SSS,PSOHS) and ‘mental well‐being’ (WEMWBS). Mothers who participated in mothers’ group outside the area scored significantly higher than those who had not participated in mothers’ groups for one measure of ‘social support’ (PSOHS).

Conclusions

Participation in mothers’ group locally may provide support and social capital benefits for mothers of children aged 0‐5 years, which may influence mental well‐being.
Is the ventrogluteal site suitable for intramuscular injections in children under the age of three?
Authors: Yapucu Güneş Ülkü , Ceylan Burcu , Bayındır Petek
Published: September 2015

Aim

This study was conducted to determine whether the ventrogluteal site could be used for intramuscular injections in children under the age of 3 and to compare the subcutaneous and muscle layer thickness at the anterolateral, deltoid and ventrogluteal site in the different age groups and in both sexes.

Background

Although recent literature has reported that the ventrogluteal area can be an alternative site for intramuscular injections in children ≤12 months of age, little research‐based evidence has been found for the use of the ventrogluteal site in infants and toddlers.

Design

A descriptive study which took place between November 2013–August 2014.

Method

A total of 142 children between the ages of 1‐36 months were selected by random sampling and ultrasound measurements were made of subcutaneous and muscle thicknesses in the anterolateral, deltoid and ventrogluteal areas. Measurements were analysed using one‐way anova and independent samples t‐test.

Results

The subcutaneous tissue thicknesses in the deltoid, anterolateral and ventrogluteal areas in children between 1‐12 months old (n = 56) were 5·20, 6·62 and 7·26 mm respectively, while in children between 13‐24 months old (n = 42), these measurements were 4·35, 6·72 and 7·98 mm; in children between 25‐36 months old (n = 44), the measurements were 5·92, 7·97 and 13·5 mm. The muscle thicknesses in the deltoid, anterolateral and ventrogluteal areas in children 1‐ 12 months old were 5·86, 9·10 and 8·17 respectively, while in children between 13‐24 months old, the measurements were 7·71, 12·92 and 17·32 mm; in children 25‐36 months old, the measurements were 9·28, 18·81 and 19·62 mm.

Conclusion

This study found that the muscle in the ventrogluteal site is adequately developed, even in infants between the ages of 1‐12 months and that in particular, in children 12‐36 months old, the ventrogluteal site is even thicker than the anterolateral.
Relationship between polyunsaturated fatty acid levels in maternal diets and human milk in the first month post‐partum
Authors: Liu G. , Ding Z. , Li X. , Chen X. , Wu Y. , Xie L.
Published: September 2015

Background

The present study evaluated the relationship between dietary fatty acid (FA) intakes and human milk FA levels.

Methods

Healthy lactating women (n = 514) from Northern China participated in the study. Dietary intake was assessed with a 24‐h dietary recall questionnaire and evaluated using golden key maternal nutrition software (Wincome, Shanghai, China) and China Food Composition 2009. Human milk FA composition was determined by gas chromatography.

Results

The maternal daily median intakes of linoleic acid (LA), α‐linolenic acid (ALA) and arachidonic acid (AA) were 19.93 g, 3.08 g and 16.33 mg, respectively. Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) intakes were below the recommended levels. FA levels in 100 g of human milk were 0.363 g LA, 0.038 g γ‐linolenic acid (GLA), 0.052 g dihomo γ‐linolenic acid (DGLA), 0.144 g ALA, 0.079 g AA, 0.007 g EPA, 0.018 g docosatetraenoic acid (DTA) and 0.048 g DHA. Multiple linear regression analysis revealed that human milk DGLA levels were negatively correlated with dietary LA intake (β = −0.223, P = 0.030), and human milk GLA and DTA levels were negatively correlated with dietary ALA intake (β = −2.189, P = 0.031; β = −2.252, P = 0.027) after adjusting for possible confounding factors.

Conclusions

The results of the present study suggest the presence of competitive interactions between n‐3 fatty acids (ALA) and n‐6 fatty acids (GLA and DTA).
Parenting Orientations as Antecedents of Children's Violent Videogame Play
Authors: Walker Doug , Laczniak Russell N. , Carlson Les , Brocato E. Deanne
Published: September 2015

The study investigates caregiver influence on children's playing of violent videogames. Based on theory, the investigation develops and tests a model that links parental socialization tendencies to children's violent videogame play. Results from a national sample of 237 caregiver–child dyads suggest that while the primary caregivers' tendencies toward warmth and restrictiveness likely lessen children's play levels of violent videogames, their predispositions toward anxious emotional involvement tend to increase play. Moreover, results suggest that these relationships are mediated by caregiver mediation of videogames.
Effectiveness of individualised intervention on older residents with constipation in nursing home: a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Huang Tzu‐Ting , Yang Shu‐Di , Tsai Yu‐Hsia , Chin Yen‐Fan , Wang Bi‐Hwa , Tsay Pei‐Kwei
Published: September 2015

Aims and objectives

To develop and examine the effectiveness of individualised intervention to reduce constipation among older adults in nursing homes.

Background

In long‐term care facilities, approximately 60–80% of the residents have symptoms of constipation. Constipation may lead to haemorrhoids, faecal impaction, ulcers, intestinal bleeding and can also lead to a decrease in quality of life. Although a high prevalence of constipation in older adults can be seen, there is a lack of empirical evidence for delivering interventions based on individual risk factors of constipation. Many factors cause constipation but the risk factors are different for each individual.

Design

A prospective, randomised control trial conducted in northern Taiwan.

Methods

Nursing home residents (n = 43) were randomly assigned to either the control group or the experimental group. The control group received no extra care from the researcher while the experimental group received an individualised intervention and an eight‐week follow‐up. Participants were assessed using the Bristol Stool Form Scale, the Patient Assessment of Constipation Symptoms, types and dosages of laxative, and bowel sound observations. Data were taken at baseline, four weeks as well as eight weeks after the intervention.

Results

The participants in the experimental group had a significantly higher increase in the frequency of defecation (group effect, p = 0·029) and in bowel sounds (interaction effect, p = 0·010) compared to those in the control group. However, the two groups did not differ significantly in symptoms and the severity of the constipation symptoms, Bristol Stool Form and use of laxatives.

Conclusions

The results of this trial suggest that the individualised intervention may be appropriate for decreasing constipation among nursing home residents and encourage further study and confirmation.

Relevance to clinical practice

Using individualised intervention to enhance the self‐care ability related to constipation among older adults is recommended.
Physical assessment techniques performed by Italian registered nurses: a quantitative survey
Authors: Cicolini Giancarlo , Tomietto Marco , Simonetti Valentina , Comparcini Dania , Flacco Maria Elena , Carvello Maicol , Manzoli Lamberto
Published: September 2015

Aims and objectives

The aims of the study were to describe which of the core techniques of the physical assessment are regularly performed by a sample of Italian nurses, and to investigate the potential predictors of a more complete examination.

Background

Physical examination is among the essential tasks of nursing professionals, who are requested to perform a correct and complete physical assessment.

Design

Cross‐sectional survey.

Methods

The study was performed between August 2013 and January 2014 in 17 Italian regions. A total of 1182 questionnaires were collected.

Results

Most participants were females (age range 41–50 years), and worked in Internal Medicine, Intensive Care and Surgical hospital units. Of the 30 core techniques that are currently taught and performed according to the Italian Baccalaureate degree requirements, 20 were routinely performed, 6 were seldom used and 4 were learnt but almost never performed (auscultation of lung, heart and bowel sounds and spine inspection). Graduate and postgraduate nurses, working in Intensive Care Units and Nursing Homes, were more prone than the others to carry out a more complete physical assessment.

Conclusions

The skills to perform a physical assessment are suboptimal among this sample of Italian nurses. Health and educational providers should pose more attention and efforts to provide nurses with an acceptable training in physical examination practice.

Relevance to clinical practice

This study describes the specific physical techniques performed by nurses in real practice and provides information on which skills require more attention in nursing educational programmes.
Demographic and psychosocial correlates of sexual activity in older Chinese people
Authors: Yang Shuyan , Yan Elsie
Published: September 2015

Aims and objectives

This study examines sexual activity and associated psychosocial factors in older Chinese people.

Background

Sexuality continues to play a pivotal role in our lives even as we grow old. There is, however, very limited research on the topic in older populations.

Design

Cross‐sectional survey.

Methods

A representative sample of 688 older Chinese people (>60 years old) were individually interviewed on their demographic characteristics; their interest in, knowledge of and perceived control over sexual activities; and their engagement in sexual activity.

Results

The results show that 51·32% of men and 41·26% of women reported engaging in some form of sexual activity. Sexual intercourse and caressing were commonly reported. A multiple regression analysis also showed that a higher level of sexual activity was associated with being younger, living with a spouse, having a strong interest in sex, having sufficient knowledge of elder sexuality and a high perceived control over sex. Distinct predictive factors in each gender were observed. A high level of perceived control was associated with a higher level of sexual activity in males but not females. A series of binary logistic regression analyses were conducted to determine the demographic and psychosocial correlates of sexual activity. With the exception of the use of objects (sex toys), sexual activities were consistently associated with being younger; living with a spouse; and having high levels of interest, knowledge and perceived control.

Conclusions

A sizable amount of older Chinese people engage in varying degrees of sexual activity, and most are still interested in sex.

Relevance to clinical practice

Frontline health professionals need to be aware of the growing needs for sex education in older persons, particular attention should be paid to discuss the limitations brought about by various chronic conditions associated with ageing and their relevance to elder sexuality.
Significant factors for work attractiveness and how these differ from the current work situation among operating department nurses
Authors: Björn Catrine , Lindberg Magnus , Rissén Dag
Published: September 2015

Aims and objectives

The aim was to examine significant factors for work attractiveness and how these differ from the current work situation among operating department nurses. A second objective was to examine the associations between age, gender, length of employment, work engagement, work ability, self‐rated health indicators and attractiveness of the current work situation.

Background

The attractiveness of work is rarely taken into account in research on nurse retention. To expand this knowledge, it is relevant to examine factors that make work attractive and their associations with related concepts.

Design

Correlational, cross‐sectional survey using a convenience sample.

Methods

Questionnaires were answered by 147 nurses in four operating departments in Sweden. Correlation and regression analyses were conducted.

Results

The nurses rated the significance of all factors of work attractiveness higher than they rated those factors in their current work situation; salary, organisation and physical work environment had the largest differences. The most significant attractive factors were relationships, leadership and status. A statistically significant positive correlation between work engagement and attractive work was found. In the multiple regression model, the independent variables work engagement and older age significantly predicted work attractiveness.

Conclusions

Several factors should be considered in the effort to increase work attractiveness in operating departments and thereby to encourage nurse retention. Positive aspects of work seem to unite work engagement and attractive work, while work ability and self‐rated health indicators are other important dimensions in nurse retention.

Relevance to clinical practice

The great discrepancies between the significance of attractive factors and the current work situation in salary, organisation and physical work environment suggest ways in which work attractiveness may be increased. To discover exactly what needs to be improved may require a deeper look into the construct of the examined factors.
Effect of intra‐abdominal administration of ligustrazine nanoparticles nano spray on postoperative peritoneal adhesion in rat model
Authors: Yan Shuai , Yue Yin‐zi , Zeng Li , Yue Jin , Li Wen‐lin , Mao Chun‐qin , Yang Lan
Published: September 2015

Aim

We aimed to evaluate the preventive effect of the ligustrazine nanoparticles nano spray (LNNS) for postoperative peritoneal adhesions in female rat models.

Material and Methods

Fifty Wistar female rats weighting 250–300 g were randomly assigned to seven equal groups. All animals in the seven groups underwent midline laparotomy and ceca were abraded with sterile rasp. Group 1 underwent sham operations without treatment. In group 2, a postoperative peritoneal adhesion model was created, but no medication was given. In group 3, a postoperative peritoneal adhesion model was treated with LNNS, 2.5 mg/kg. In group 4, a postoperative peritoneal adhesion model was treated with LNNS, 5 mg/kg. In group 5, a postoperative peritoneal adhesion model was treated with LNNS, 10 mg/kg. In group 6, a postoperative peritoneal adhesion model was treated with polylactic acid (PLA) nanoparticle. In group 7, a postoperative peritoneal adhesion model was treated with ligustrazine, 2.5 mg/kg. Ten days after surgery, macroscopic and pathologic assessments were performed, and peritoneal fluid samples were collected in each group. The levels of tumor necrosis factor‐α, tissue plasminogen activator and plasminogen activator inhibitor‐1 in peritoneal fluid were determined by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay.

Results

The adhesion score and extent of groups 4 and 5 was lower than that of group 2 in macroscopic assessment (P < 0.05). A comparison of tumor necrosis factor‐α and tissue plasminogen activator level in the peritoneal fluid also demonstrated significant differences among groups 2, 4 and 5 (P < 0.05). The levels of plasminogen activator inhibitor‐1 in peritoneal fluid in the LNNS groups were decreased compared to group 1.

Conclusion

We suggest that LNNS could reduce peritoneal adhesion formation and it could be applied as a novel intervention for postoperative peritoneal adhesion.
Mifepristone and misoprostol compared with misoprostol alone for induction of labor in intrauterine fetal death: A randomized trial
Authors: Chaudhuri Picklu , Datta Sutapa
Published: September 2015

Aim

To assess whether mifepristone and misoprostol are more beneficial than misoprostol alone for the induction of labor in women with intrauterine fetal death.

Methods

A randomized double blind placebo‐controlled parallel group superiority trial was conducted. One hundred and ten women who had experienced fetal death at or later than 20 weeks of gestation were randomized by computer‐generated random number sequence to receive 200 mg of mifepristone or matched placebo tablets orally. Misoprostol was administered vaginally to women of both groups after 36–48 h. The main outcomes studied were the fetal‐placental delivery rate within 24 hours of commencement of the first dose of misoprostol without additional intervention and the induction‐delivery interval.

Results

Successful delivery occurred significantly more frequently in women who received mifepristone prior to misoprostol than in women who received only misoprostol (92.5 % [49/53] compared with 71.2% [37/52] respectively; P = 0.001). The mean induction‐delivery interval was also significantly shorter when using mifepristone plus misoprostol than using misoprostol alone (9.8 h, standard deviation, 4.4 compared with 16.3 h standard deviation, 5.7, respectively; P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Use of a combination of mifepristone and misoprostol significantly improved the rate of successful delivery and shortened the induction‐delivery interval in women who had experienced fetal death compared with the use of misoprostol alone.
Long‐lasting analgesic effect of transcranial direct current stimulation in treatment of chronic endometriosis pain
Authors: Rostami Reza , Badran Bashar W. , Kazemi Reza , Habibnezhad Mohammad , George Mark S.
Published: September 2015

Approximately 10–20% of women of reproductive age suffer from endometriosis, with 70–90% of these women reporting chronic pain symptoms that persist during their menstrual cycle. We are presenting a case in which a novel form of noninvasive brain stimulation called transcranial direct current stimulation was used as an intervention in a 32‐year‐old woman with persistent, chronic pain symptoms caused by endometriosis for 20 years. Ten daily, 20‐min sessions of 2‐mA anodal transcranial direct current stimulation were applied over the left primary motor cortex. Acutely, visual analog scale pain symptoms were reduced by 60%. There were also significant decreases in modules of the Endometriosis Health Profile. At the 4‐month follow‐up, the patient still expressed an overall decrease in pain symptoms of 30%.
Survey of Japanese mothers of daughters eligible for human papillomavirus vaccination on attitudes about media reports of adverse events and the suspension of governmental recommendation for vaccination
Authors: Egawa‐Takata Tomomi , Ueda Yutaka , Morimoto Akiko , Yoshino Kiyoshi , Kimura Tadashi , Nishikawa Nobumichi , Sekine Masayuki , Horikoshi Yorihiko , Takagi Tetsu , Enomoto Takayuki
Published: September 2015

Aim

Following media reports of adverse medical events surrounding human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination and the suspension of Japanese governmental recommendation, most adolescents have refrained from receiving the vaccine. This represents a national critical event, because the incidence of cervical cancer in Japan continues to increase.

Methods

We conducted an Internet survey to investigate why Japanese adolescent girls decline, continue or discontinue their HPV vaccination, how their mothers influence their decision, and the mothers’ feelings about future HPV vaccination for their daughters. One thousand mothers with daughters 10–18 years of age were recruited for our questionnaire.

Results

Our results suggest that acceptance of the HPV vaccine was determined predominantly by the mother's perceptions of risk versus benefits, rather than the daughter's wishes. The mothers’ knowledge of the benefits of the prophylactic HPV vaccine and their attitude toward cervical cancer screening influenced their decision whether to allow their daughter to receive future vaccinations. The tenor of survey responses of those mothers who were anti‐vaccine changed significantly to the positive in response to a proposed scenario where the governmental recommendation for the HPV vaccine was reinstated, whereas a hypothetical educational intervention sheet did not significantly change their attitude.

Conclusions

Promotion of the HPV vaccine through comprehensive education for both mothers and daughters, not only on the vaccine itself, but also about cervical cancer and screening, is required for any successful program to prevent cervical cancer.
Did antepartum hypoxic insult caused by fetal vessel thrombosis influence the procalcitonin level in umbilical blood? A case report
Authors: Kaneko Masatoki , Yamauchi Aya , Yamashita Rie , Sato Yuichiro , Kodama Yuki , Sameshima Hiroshi
Published: September 2015

We report a case of marked elevation of the procalcitonin level in umbilical blood and neonatal blood at birth. The mother did not perceive fetal motion. Antepartum fetal heart rate monitoring showed a loss of variability and absence of acceleration. No fetal breathing movement, fetal movement, or fetal tone were observed by ultrasonography. The female neonate was delivered by cesarean section at 25 weeks of gestation, with birthweight 774 g. The umbilical arterial pH value at birth was 7.29. Mild elevation in interleukin‐6 and tumor necrosis factor‐α in umbilical blood were observed. Cytochrome c showed a high level in umbilical and neonatal blood at birth. Placental histopathology revealed multiple fetal vessel thrombosis in the large stem villi and chorionic vessels. The neonate showed no infectious signs throughout the neonatal period. Computed tomography at 3 months of age revealed atrophy in the cerebrum and cerebellum. At 1 year after birth, the infant showed spastic quadriplegia. In this case, antepartum asphyxia due to fetal vessel thrombosis may have influenced the elevation of procalcitonin level in umbilical blood and neonatal blood at birth.
The Effect of Tissue Entrapment on Screw Loosening at the Implant/Abutment Interface of External‐ and Internal‐Connection Implants: An In Vitro Study
Authors: Zeno Helios A. , Buitrago Renan L. , Sternberger Sidney S. , Patt Marisa E. , Tovar Nick , Coelho Paulo , Kurtz Kenneth S. , Tuminelli Frank J.
Published: September 2015

Purpose

To compare the removal of torque values of machined implant abutment connections (internal and external) with and without soft tissue entrapment using an in vitro model.

Materials and Methods

Thirty external‐ and 30 internal‐connection implants were embedded in urethane dimethacrylate. Porcine tissue was prepared and measured to thicknesses of 0.5 and 1.0 mm. Six groups (n = 10) were studied: External‐ and internal‐connection implants with no tissue (control), 0.5, and 1.0 mm of tissue were entrapped at the implant/abutment interface. Abutments were inserted to 20 Ncm for all six groups. Insertion torque values were recorded using a digital torque gauge. All groups were then immersed in 1 M NaOH for 48 hours to dissolve tissue. Subsequent reverse torque measurements were recorded. Mean and standard deviation were determined for each group, and one‐way ANOVA and Bonferroni test were used for statistical analysis.

Results

All 60 specimens achieved a 20‐Ncm insertion torque, despite tissue entrapment. Reverse torque measurements for external connection displayed a statistically significant difference (p < 0.05) between all groups with mean reverse torque values for the control (13.71 ± 1.4 Ncm), 0.5 mm (7.83 ± 2.4 Ncm), and 1.0 mm tissue entrapment (2.29 ± 1.4 Ncm) groups. Some statistically significant differences (p < 0.05) were found between internal‐connection groups. In all specimens, tissue did not completely dissolve after 48 hours.

Conclusions

External‐connection implants were significantly affected by tissue entrapment; the thicker the tissue, the lower the reverse torque values noted. Internal‐connection implants were less affected by tissue entrapment.
Changes in Upper Airway Volume in Edentulous Obstructive Sleep Apnea Patients Treated with Modified Mandibular Advancement Device
Authors: Tripathi Arvind , Gupta Ashutosh , Sarkar Sabyasachi , Tripathi Suryakant , Gupta Narendra
Published: September 2015

Purpose

This study was an attempt to verify the utility of complete dentures modified as a mandibular advancement device (MAD) in effecting expansion in pharyngeal volume to treat obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in edentulous patients.

Materials and Methods

The sample consisted of 17 patients (12 male, 5 female, average age 61 ± 4 years; BMI, 22 ± 5; apnea hypopnea index [AHI] 15 to 30). All patients had worn complete dentures for at least 1 year; all patients had the dentures modified to a MAD. Five variables were assessed preoperatively and 6 months after wearing the modified MADs. These variables were: sleep efficiency, AHI, oxygen desaturation events/hr., mean oxygen saturation, snoring index, and airway volume. This assessment was done by subjecting the patients to all‐night polysomnography.

Results

Without any prosthesis or device in the edentulous patients, the mean velopharyngeal volume was 8.05 ± 0.58 cm3, oropharyngeal volume was 2.14 ± 0.38 cm3, and hypopharyngeal volume was 3.26 ± 0.78 cm3. With complete dentures (unaltered) in the edentulous patients, the mean velopharyngeal, oropharyngeal, and hypopharyngeal volumes were 10.73 ± 0.98 cm3, 2.60 ± 0.48 cm3, and 4.31 ± 0.89 cm3, respectively. There was a statistically significant change in the airway volume following insertion of the complete dentures modified as MADs with velopharyngeal, oropharyngeal, and hypopharyngeal volume recorded as 11.76 ± 1.07 cm3, 3.33 ± 0.51 cm3, and 4.94 ± 0.83 cm3, respectively.

Conclusion

From the results obtained in this limited small sample study, it was inferred that the pharyngeal expansion induced by complete dentures modified as MADs effectively reduced symptoms of OSA. Increased volume was most pronounced in the velopharynx region followed by hypopharynx and oropharynx.
CARE OF A PATIENT'S VASCULAR ACCESS FOR HAEMODIALYSIS: A NARRATIVE LITERATURE REVIEW
Authors: Cowan Debi , Smith Lindsay , Chow Josephine
Published: September 2015

Background

Patients requiring haemodialysis have diverse clinical needs impacting on the longevity of their vascular access and their quality of life. A clinical practice scenario is presented that raises the potential of unsafe cannulation of a patient's vascular access as a result of minimal patient empowerment. Vascular access care is the responsibility of everyone, including the patient and carer.

Aim

The aim of this narrative literature review (1997–2014) is to explore the current understanding of what factors influence the care of vascular access for haemodialysis.

Method

A narrative literature review allows the synthesis of the known literature pertinent to the research question into a succinct model or unique order to enable new understandings to emerge. The bio‐ecological model was used to guide the thematic analysis of the literature.

Results

The narrative literature review revealed five themes related to care of vascular access: patient experience; relationships‐empowerment and shared decision making; environment of healthcare; time; and quality of life as the outcome of care.

Conclusion

The management of vascular access is complicated. Current available literature predominantly concentrates on bio‐medical aspects of vascular access care. Contextualised vascular access care in the complex ecology of the patient and carer's lives has the potential to enhance nursing practice and patient outcomes.
Insomnia symptoms and mortality: a register‐linked study among women and men from Finland, Norway and Lithuania
Authors: Lallukka Tea , Podlipskytė Aurelija , Sivertsen Børge , Andruškienė Jurgita , Varoneckas Giedrius , Lahelma Eero , Ursin Reidun , Tell Grethe S. , Rahkonen Ossi
Published: September 2015

Evidence on the association between insomnia symptoms and mortality is limited and inconsistent. This study examined the association between insomnia symptoms and mortality in cohorts from three countries to show common and unique patterns. The Finnish cohort comprised 6605 employees of the City of Helsinki, aged 40–60 years at baseline in 2000–2002. The Norwegian cohort included 6236 participants from Western Norway, aged 40–45 years at baseline in 1997–1999. The Lithuanian cohort comprised 1602 participants from the City of Palanga, aged 35–74 years at baseline in 2003. Mortality data were derived from the Statistics Finland and Norwegian Cause of Death Registry until the end of 2012, and from the Lithuanian Regional Mortality Register until the end of 2013. Insomnia symptoms comprised difficulties initiating sleep, nocturnal awakenings, and waking up too early. Covariates were age, marital status, education, smoking, alcohol, physical inactivity, obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, depression, shift work, sleep duration, and self‐rated health. Cox regression analysis was used. Frequent difficulties initiating sleep were associated with all‐cause mortality among men after full adjustments in the Finnish (hazard ratio 2.51; 95% confidence interval 1.07–5.88) and Norwegian (hazard ratio 3.42; 95% confidence interval 1.03–11.35) cohorts. Among women and in Lithuania, insomnia symptoms were not statistically significantly associated with all‐cause mortality after adjustments. In conclusion, difficulties initiating sleep were associated with mortality among Norwegian and Finnish men. Variation and heterogeneity in the association between insomnia symptoms and mortality highlights that further research needs to distinguish between men and women, specific symptoms and national contexts, and focus on more chronic insomnia.
PORTFOLIO OPTIMIZATION AND STOCHASTIC VOLATILITY ASYMPTOTICS
Authors: Fouque Jean‐Pierre , Sircar Ronnie , Zariphopoulou Thaleia
Published: September 2015

We study the Merton portfolio optimization problem in the presence of stochastic volatility using asymptotic approximations when the volatility process is characterized by its timescales of fluctuation. This approach is tractable because it treats the incomplete markets problem as a perturbation around the complete market constant volatility problem for the value function, which is well understood. When volatility is fast mean‐reverting, this is a singular perturbation problem for a nonlinear Hamilton–Jacobi–Bellman partial differential equation, while when volatility is slowly varying, it is a regular perturbation. These analyses can be combined for multifactor multiscale stochastic volatility models. The asymptotics shares remarkable similarities with the linear option pricing problem, which follows from some new properties of the Merton risk tolerance function. We give examples in the family of mixture of power utilities and also use our asymptotic analysis to suggest a “practical” strategy that does not require tracking the fast‐moving volatility. In this paper, we present formal derivations of asymptotic approximations, and we provide a convergence proof in the case of power utility and single‐factor stochastic volatility. We assess our approximation in a particular case where there is an explicit solution.
Sense‐Think‐Act Framework for Intelligent Building Energy Management
Authors: Katsigarakis K.I. , Kontes G.D. , Giannakis G.I. , Rovas D.V.
Published: September 2015

The realization of smart and energetically efficient buildings is contingent upon the successful implementation of two tasks that occur on distinct phases of the building life cycle: in the design and subsequent retrofitting phases, the selection and implementation of an effective energy concept, and, during the operation phase, the actuation of energy systems to ensure parsimonious energy use while retaining acceptable end‐user thermal comfort. Operational efficiencies are achieved through the use of Building Energy Management Systems tasked to deliver core Sense, Think, Act (STA) functionalities: Sense, using sensing modalities installed in the building; Think, utilizing, typically a rule‐based decision system; and Act, by sending actuation commands to controllable building elements. Providing the intelligence in this STA process can be a formidable task due to the complex interplay of many systems and occurrence of disturbances. In this article, an architectural and algorithmic framework is presented to provide streamlined implementation of this process. Important ingredients in this framework are: (S) a data access component capable of collecting and aggregating information from a number of heterogeneous sources (sensors, weather stations, weather forecasts); (T) a model‐based optimization methodology to generate intelligent operational decisions; and (A) an assessment and actuation component. An illustrative application of the proposed methodology in an office building is provided.
GA‐Based Multi‐Objective Optimization for Retrofit Design on a Multi‐Core PC Cluster
Authors: Park Keunhyoung , Oh Byung Kwan , Park Hyo Seon , Choi Se Woon
Published: September 2015

This article presents a distributed nondominated sorting genetic algorithm II (NSGA‐II) for optimal seismic retrofit design using buckling restrained braces (BRBs) on a cluster of multi‐core PCs. In the formulation, two conflicting objective functions of the initial BRB installation cost required for seismic retrofitting and damage cost that can be incurred by earthquakes expected during the life cycle of the structure were minimized. Because time‐consuming nonlinear structural analyses are required for fitness evaluations of individuals in every generation, parallelism at candidate design level or individual level is exploited by assigning fitness evaluations for individuals to slave core processors evenly. The distributed algorithm is applied to seismic retrofit design of 2D steel frame structure and 3D irregular reinforced concrete structure. The performance of the distributed NSGA‐II was assessed based on three criteria: convergence of the distributed algorithm, efficiency of distributed computing, and quality of optimal solutions. Implementation of the distributed algorithm on the multi‐core cluster consisting of up to 64 core processors resulted in relatively high speedups or efficiencies of the distributed optimization without deteriorating the quality of the optimal solutions.
N‐acteyl‐ß‐D‐glucosaminidase and kidney injury molecule‐1: New predictors for long‐term progression of chronic kidney disease in patients with heart failure
Authors: Jungbauer Carsten G. , Uecer Ekrem , Stadler Stefan , Birner Christoph , Buchner Stefan , Maier Lars S. , Luchner Andreas
Published: September 2015

Aim

Patients with chronic heart failure (CHF) are often characterized by the cardiorenal syndrome (CRS). The aim of the present study was to assess whether novel markers of kidney injury are able to predict progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in patients with CHF.

Methods

New renal biomarkers, N‐acteyl‐ß‐D‐glucosaminidase (NAG), kidney injury molecule‐1 (KIM‐1) and Neutrophil Gelatinase‐Associated Lipocalin (NGAL), were assessed from urine samples of 149 patients with chronic heart failure. During a 5‐year‐follow‐up, renal function was assessed by creatinine and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR CKD EPI) and was available for 138 patients. Further, data regarding all‐cause mortality was obtained.

Results

Twenty‐six patients (18.8%) developed a progression of CKD during the follow‐up period, as defined by decline in eGFR category accompanied by a ≥25% drop in eGFR form baseline. No difference regarding age, sex, body mass index, hypertension, diabetes or EF was present between patients with and without CKD progression (each P = n.s.). At baseline, creatinine concentrations and eGFR were significantly different between both groups (sCr: 1.50 ± 0.67 vs 1.04 ± 0.37, P = < 0.001; eGFR: 47.8 ± 12.3 vs. 77.3 ± 23.5 mL/min per 1.73m2, each P < 0.001). In a Kaplan–Meier‐analysis, KIM‐1 and NAG were significant predictors for CKD progression (both P < 0.05). In Cox regression analysis, NAG > median (OR 3.25,P = 0.013), initial eGFR (OR 0.94, P < 0.001) and diuretic use (OR 3.92, P = 0.001) were independent predictors of CKD progression. Further, KIM‐1 and NAG were also independent predictors of a combined endpoint of CKD progression and all‐cause mortality by Cox regression analysis (each P < 0.05). The combination of both markers showed additive value regarding both endpoints. NGAL showed no association with CKD progression.

Conclusions

During long‐term follow‐up chronic heart failure patients with CKD show a relevant disease progression. The current study emphasizes a strong association of the tubular biomarkers NAG and KIM‐1 with CKD progression in chronic heart failure and suggests their usefulness as cardiorenal markers.
Nitric oxide is involved in brassinosteroid‐induced alternative respiratory pathway in Nicotiana benthamiana seedlings' response to salt stress
Authors: Zhu Tong , Deng Xing‐Guang , Tan Wen‐Rong , Zhou Xue , Luo Shi‐Shuai , Han Xue‐Ying , Zhang Da‐Wei , Lin Hong‐Hui
Published: September 2015

Recent studies reported that brassinosteroids (BRs) can induce plant tolerance to different environmental stresses via the nitric oxide (NO) signaling pathway. Previous reports have indicated that alternative oxidase (AOX) plays an important role in plants under various stresses. The mechanisms governing how NO is involved as a signal molecule which connects BR with AOX in regulating stress tolerance are still unknown. Recently, we found that Nicotiana benthamiana seedlings which were pretreated with BR have more tolerance to salt stress, accompanied with an increase of CN‐resistant respiration. Our results suggested that pretreatment with 0.1 μM brassinolide (BL, the most active brassinosteroid) alleviated salt‐induced oxidative damage and increased the NbAOX1 transcript level. Application of 2‐(4‐carboxyphenyl)‐4,4,5,5‐tetramethyl‐imidazoline‐1‐1‐oxyl‐3‐oxide (cPTIO, an NO scavenger) or virus‐induced gene silencing of nitrate reductase (NR) and nitric oxide synthase (NOS)‐like enzyme compromised the BRs‐induced alternative respiratory pathway. Furthermore, pretreatment with specific chemical inhibitors of NR and NOS or gene silencing experiments decreased plant resistance to salt stress which also compromised BRs‐induced salt stress tolerance. In conclusion, NO is involved in BRs‐induced AOX capability which plays essential roles in salt tolerance in N. benthamiana seedlings.
The Impact of Local Environmental Advocacy Groups on City Sustainability Policies and Programs
Authors: Portney Kent E. , Berry Jeffrey M.
Published: September 2015

American cities vary considerably in the degree to which they pursue sustainability. What explains this variation? One plausible cause of such differences is that sustainability may be more appealing to high‐income cities than to more economically challenged cities. Yet such strict economic determinism seems simplistic and removes politics from an inherently political process. The hypothesis here is that any such relationship between income and commitment to sustainability is conditioned by a city's level of environmental advocacy. The data utilized in this analysis are derived from two large‐scale data sources. One is a comprehensive inventory of sustainability programs and policies in 50 large American cities. The other is a set of surveys in those same 50 cities. The multivariate model supports the hypothesis. Controlling for income growth and the predisposition of policymakers to be supportive of sustainability (as well as other alternative explanations), a city's commitment to sustainability is strongly linked to the advocacy of environmental and sustainability groups in the policymaking process. The example of Sustainable Seattle is used to illustrate the linkages that would seem to underlie the statistical analysis.
Institutions, Incentives, and Policy Entrepreneurship
Authors: Hopkins Vincent
Published: September 2015

Policy entrepreneurship is often used to explain agenda setting through reference to the behavior of individual “change agents.” But there are still gaps in our understanding of what motivates entrepreneurs. Rational choice theory emphasizes the importance of material and nonmaterial incentives; however, it remains unclear what role institutions play. This article aims to empirically examine the relationship between incentives and institutional encouragement of innovation. Using a case study of the federal government of Canada, I find evidence that incentives matter. Government agencies with many incentives are more likely to encourage innovation than agencies with few incentives. These results underscore the importance of institutions in determining the motivations of policy entrepreneurs, and suggest future research should focus on the interplay among individual, political, and institutional factors.