bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesis of ZrC–SiC Powders by a Preceramic Solution Route
Authors: Cai Tao , Qiu Wen‐Feng , Liu Dan , Han Wei‐Jian , Ye Li , Zhao Ai‐Jun , Zhao Tong
Published: October 2013

Homogenous liquid precursor for ZrC–SiC was prepared by blending of Zr(OC4H9)4 and Poly[(methylsilylene)acetylene]. This precursor could be cured at 250°C and converted into binary ZrC–SiC composite ceramics upon heat treatment at 1700°C. The pyrolysis mechanism and optimal molar ratio of the precursor were investigated by XRD. The morphology and elements analyses were conducted by SEM and corresponding energy‐dispersive spectrometer. The evolution of carbon during ceramization was studied by Raman spectroscopy. The results showed that the precursor samples heat treated at 900°C consisted of t‐ZrO2 (main phase) and m‐ZrO2 (minor phase). The higher temperature induced phase transformation and t‐ZrO2 converted into m‐ZrO2. Further heating led to the formation of ZrC and SiC due to the carbothermal reduction, and the ceramic sample changed from compact to porous due to the generation of carbon oxides. With the increasing molar ratios of C/Zr, the residual oxides in 1700°C ceramic samples converted into ZrC and almost pure ZrC–SiC composite ceramics could be obtained in ZS‐3 sample. The Zr, Si, and C elements were well distributed in the obtained ceramics powders and particles with a distribution of 100 ~ 300 nm consisted of well‐crystallized ZrC and SiC phases.
Factors associated with low back pain changes during the third trimester of pregnancy
Authors: Chang Hao‐Yuan , Lai Yeur‐Hur , Jensen Mark P. , Shun Shiow‐Ching , Hsiao Fei‐Hsiu , Lee Chen‐Nan , Yang Ya‐Ling
Published: October 2013

Aims

(1) To investigate the course of pregnancy‐related low back pain intensity and interference during the third trimester, and (2) to identify risk factors associated with changes in pain intensity and interference over time.

Background

Pregnancy‐related low back pain is common and reaches its peak both in the prevalence and severity in the third trimester.

Design

A longitudinal design with consecutive sampling.

Methods

Three waves of data were collected from pregnant women in an antenatal care centre of a medical centre and a regional hospital in the northern Taiwan from February–June, 2010. Questionnaires were administered at gestational ages 28, 32 and 36 weeks. 214 women were enrolled and 179 participants completed all measures. Generalized estimating equations were used to identify the risk factors associated with changes in pain intensity and pain interference over time.

Results

Pain interference increased over time during the third trimester. Pain catastrophizing and pain intensity at gestational age 24 weeks and time (from 28–36 weeks) were associated with increases in pregnancy‐related low back pain intensity. These same factors plus depression were associated with an increase in pregnancy‐related low back pain interference.

Conclusions

This study identified a number of prospective factors related to increases in pain intensity and pain interference during the third trimester. Given that both catastrophizing and depression are modifiable, the findings indicate that research examining the benefits of treatments that address these (e.g. cognitive‐behavioural therapy) on pain and pain interference is warranted.
Exploring nursing assistants' roles in the process of pain management for cognitively impaired nursing home residents: a qualitative study
Authors: Liu Justina Y.W.
Published: October 2013

Aim

To explore nursing assistants' roles during the actual process of pain management (assessment, reporting, implementation of pain‐relieving interventions and re‐assessment) for cognitively impaired home residents with pain.

Background

Nursing assistants provide most of the direct care to residents and represent the major taskforce in nursing homes. They may develop specialized knowledge of residents' pain experience that enables them to play both a pivotal role in pain assessment and possibly a supporting role in pain treatment. Currently, there is a lack of research into nursing assistants' functions in pain management.

Design

This is a descriptive, exploratory qualitative study.

Methods

Forty‐nine nursing assistants were recruited from 12 nursing homes, 12 of them participating in semi‐structured individual interviews and 37 in 8 semi‐structured focus groups. All interviews were carried out from May to September 2010. Data collected via both data collection methods were transcribed verbatim and analysed by content analysis.

Results

Nursing assistants were found to play four roles in the pain management process: (1) pain assessor; (2) reporter; (3) subordinate implementing prescribed medications; and (4) instigator implementing non‐pharmacological interventions.

Conclusions

This study highlights the importance of nursing assistants in successful pain assessment and identifies their possible supporting roles in other aspects of pain management. However, nursing assistants' scope of practice resulted in their functions in pain management being continually undervalued by other healthcare professionals. Continuous in‐service training, the use of a standardized pain management protocol and strategies for building coherent work teams in nursing homes are suggested to improve this situation.
Why do individuals respond to fraudulent scam communications and lose money? The psychological determinants of scam compliance
Authors: Fischer Peter , Lea Stephen E. G. , Evans Kath M.
Published: October 2013

Why do so many people all over the world, so often, react to completely worthless scam offers? In two questionnaire studies, one of which included the distribution of an experimentally manipulated simulated scam, we investigated differences between respondents who did and did not report past compliance with scams. We found that the principal differences were in their response to very high‐value incentives, in the extent to which they reacted with positive emotions to the thought of winning a large prize, in their reliance on signs of official authority, and in their self‐confidence. The first two of these can be regarded as forms of visceral processing. Some of these differences suggested a dispositional difference between victims and non‐victims.
Are Information Attributes Priced?
Authors: Botosan Christine A. , Plumlee Marlene A.
Published: October 2013

A seminal model in finance links cost of equity capital to information precision, composition and dissemination. Using realized returns to proxy for cost of equity capital and the probability of an informed trade (PIN) to proxy for composition, prior research documents results consistent with the model's prediction regarding composition. Nonetheless, prior research that examines the construct validity cautions against the use of future realized returns to proxy for cost of equity capital and recommend rDIV_PREM or rPEG_PREM instead. The authors speculate but do not demonstrate how the results in existing research might be incorrect due to their use of realized returns. This paper provides such evidence. We find that the authors inference regarding PIN is dependent on their choice of realized returns to proxy for cost of equity capital. We also estimate a more complete specification of the model that includes precision and dissemination, and we decompose PIN into its component parts to isolate that portion of PIN that varies with dissemination. These refinements allow for new insights regarding the veracity of the model's predictions. We conclude that cost of equity capital is increasing in composition, and decreasing in dissemination, and find some, albeit not conclusive support, for the prediction that cost of equity capital is decreasing in precision.
The gingival biotype: measurement of soft and hard tissue dimensions ‐ a radiographic morphometric study
Authors: Stein Jamal M. , Lintel‐Höping Nils , Hammächer Christian , Kasaj Adrian , Tamm Miriam , Hanisch Oliver
Published: October 2013

Background

Gingival biotypes have been reported to influence the outcome of restorative therapies. The aim of this study was to evaluate the correlation of different morphometric parameters with the thickness of the buccal gingiva and alveolar bone at different apico‐coronal levels.

Methods

In 60 periodontally healthy subjects, the central maxillary incisor was examined. Clinical parameters included the crown width/crown length ratio (CW/CL), gingival width (GW), gingival scallop (SC) and transparency of the periodontal probe through the gingival sulcus (TRAN). Gingival and alveolar bone dimensions were assessed on parallel profile radiographs.

Results

Crown width/crown length ratio was positively correlated with the thickness of the gingiva at the cementoenamel junction (G3) (r = 0.47) and to the thickness of the alveolar crest (A1) (r = 0.46); whereas SC had a weak negative and GW had a moderate positive correlation with all radiographic measurements. TRAN had a stronger negative relation to the thickness at the free gingiva (r = −0.42) than to other tissue thicknesses. All gingival thickness values were correlated with A1 value. Multivariate models identified CW/CL and GW as significant predictors for G3 value, whereas CW/CL was a significant predictor for A1 value.

Conclusion

Crown width/crown length ratio and GW could represent surrogate parameters to anticipate the gingival thickness at the cementoenamel junction, whereas CW/CL might also be an indicator for alveolar bone crest thickness. Periodontal probing has a limited prognostic value for these tissue dimensions.
Association of serum bilirubin levels with development and progression of albuminuria, and decline in estimated glomerular filtration rate in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Toya Kiwako , Babazono Tetsuya , Hanai Ko , Uchigata Yasuko
Published: October 2013

Aims/Introduction

Recent observational studies suggest elevated levels of bilirubin, an endogenous anti‐oxidant, might protect against kidney disease. We carried out an observational cohort study to assess whether higher baseline levels of bilirubin, within normal range, could predict the rate of development and progression of diabetic nephropathy in patients with type 2 diabetes.

Materials and Methods

Japanese type 2 diabetic patients with normo‐ or microalbuminuria and normal serum bilirubin (<1.2 mg/dL) were recruited from a single center, and categorized according to baseline serum bilirubin levels. Two independent end‐points were specified: development or progression of diabetic nephropathy, based on transition to a more advanced stage of albuminuria (albuminuria cohort), and the rate of change in estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR cohort).

Results

Albuminuria and eGFR cohorts were constructed consisting of 1,915 patients and 1,898 patients, respectively, with 1,738 patients overlapping. Mean follow up was 4.4 and 5.4 years for the two cohorts, respectively. Within the albuminuria cohort, 132 (9%) of 1,418 patients with normoalbuminuria developed microalbuminuria, and 56 (11%) of 497 patients with microalbuminuria developed macroalbuminuria. Higher baseline bilirubin levels were associated with significantly lower risk of progression from microalbuminuria to macroalbuminuria in both the univariate and multivariate analyses. In normoalbuminuric patients, an inverse association was found when restricted to a subgroup with elevated hemoglobin A1c levels. There was no relationship between bilirubin levels and the rate of change in eGFR.

Conclusions

Higher serum bilirubin levels, within normal range, might be predictive of a lower risk of progression of nephropathy in type 2 diabetic patients.
The hooked element in the pes of turtles (Testudines): a global approach to exploring primary and secondary homology
Authors: Joyce Walter G. , Werneburg Ingmar , Lyson Tyler R.
Published: October 2013

The hooked element in the pes of turtles was historically identified by most palaeontologists and embryologists as a modified fifth metatarsal, and often used as evidence to unite turtles with other reptiles with a hooked element. Some recent embryological studies, however, revealed that this element might represent an enlarged fifth distal tarsal. We herein provide extensive new myological and developmental observations on the hooked element of turtles, and re‐evaluate its primary and secondary homology using all available lines of evidence. Digital count and timing of development are uninformative. However, extensive myological, embryological and topological data are consistent with the hypothesis that the hooked element of turtles represents a fusion of the fifth distal tarsal with the fifth metatarsal, but that the fifth distal tarsal dominates the hooked element in pleurodiran turtles, whereas the fifth metatarsal dominates the hooked element of cryptodiran turtles. The term ‘ansulate bone’ is proposed to refer to hooked elements that result from the fusion of these two bones. The available phylogenetic and fossil data are currently insufficient to clarify the secondary homology of hooked elements within Reptilia.
Protein kinase C isoforms at the neuromuscular junction: localization and specific roles in neurotransmission and development
Authors: Lanuza Maria A. , Santafe Manel M. , Garcia Neus , Besalduch Núria , Tomàs Marta , Obis Teresa , Priego Mercedes , Nelson Phillip G. , Tomàs Josep
Published: October 2013

The protein kinase C family (PKC) regulates a variety of neural functions including neurotransmitter release. The selective activation of a wide range of PKC isoforms in different cells and domains is likely to contribute to the functional diversity of PKC phosphorylating activity. In this review, we describe the isoform localization, phosphorylation function, regulation and signalling of the PKC family at the neuromuscular junction. Data show the involvement of the PKC family in several important functions at the neuromuscular junction and in particular in the maturation of the synapse and the modulation of neurotransmission in the adult.
Selecting the most appropriate inferential statistical test for your quantitative research study
Authors: Bettany‐Saltikov Josette , Whittaker Victoria Jane
Published: October 2013

Aims and objectives

To discuss the issues and processes relating to the selection of the most appropriate statistical test. A review of the basic research concepts together with a number of clinical scenarios is used to illustrate this.

Background

Quantitative nursing research generally features the use of empirical data which necessitates the selection of both descriptive and statistical tests. Different types of research questions can be answered by different types of research designs, which in turn need to be matched to a specific statistical test(s).

Design

Discursive paper.

Methods

This paper discusses the issues relating to the selection of the most appropriate statistical test and makes some recommendations as to how these might be dealt with.

Conclusion

When conducting empirical quantitative studies, a number of key issues need to be considered. Considerations for selecting the most appropriate statistical tests are discussed and flow charts provided to facilitate this process.

Relevance to clinical practice

When nursing clinicians and researchers conduct quantitative research studies, it is crucial that the most appropriate statistical test is selected to enable valid conclusions to be made.
Taxes and Corporate Policies: Evidence from a Quasi Natural Experiment
Authors: DOIDGE CRAIG , DYCK ALEXANDER
Published: October 2013

We document important interactions between tax incentives and corporate policies using a “quasi natural experiment” provided by a surprise announcement that imposed corporate taxes on a group of Canadian publicly traded firms. The announcement caused a dramatic decrease in value. Prospective tax shields partially offset the losses, adding 4.6% to firm value on average, and vary with the tax status of the marginal investor. Further, firms adjust leverage, payout, cash holdings, and investment in response to changing tax incentives. Overall, the event study and time series evidence supports the view that taxes are important for corporate decision making.
Effect of mode of delivery on postpartum depression in Iranian women
Authors: Sadat Zohreh , Kafaei Atrian Mahboobeh , Masoudi Alavi Negin , Abbaszadeh Fatemeh , Karimian Zahra , Taherian Aliacbar
Published: October 2013

Aim

The aim of this study was to determine the relation between mode of delivery (cesarean section [CS] or unassisted vaginal delivery) and postpartum depression (PPD).

Material and Methods

In a prospective study, 300 women who had experienced vaginal delivery (VD) or CS were recruited in Kashan, Iran. PPD was measured using the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS). A score of 13 or more was defined as PPD. Data collection was conducted at two assessment points: 2 months and 4 months postpartum. Mean scores of EPDS and PPD were compared between the VD and CS groups.

Results

Differences in mean scores of EPDS between CS (n = 150) and VD (n = 150) groups at the first and the second assessments were not significant. The depression mean scores differences from the first to the second assessment were compared between the two groups; VD group showed more decrease on EPDS score (P = 0.006). Comparing the two assessments, the VD group showed a more decreased EPDS from the first to the second one. PPD prevalence rates (score ≥13) among the VD and CS groups were 24% and 20.7% for the first and 14.7% and 16.7% for the second assessment, respectively, which were not significantly different. The logistic regression showed that an unwanted pregnancy and PPD 2 months after delivery were determinants for PPD 4 months after delivery.

Conclusion

There was no relation between delivery mode and PPD at 2 and 4 months after delivery; however, the VD group showed greater decrease in EPDS score from 2 to 4 months after delivery.
Counselling and self‐management therapies for temporomandibular disorders: a systematic review
Authors: de Freitas R. F. C. P. , Ferreira M. Â. F. , Barbosa G. A. S. , Calderon P. S.
Published: October 2013

The aim of this review was to investigate the effectiveness of counselling and other self‐management‐based therapies on muscle and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain relief and increasing the functional abilities of patients with temporomandibular disorders (TMD). A systematic literature review was conducted by three independent reviewers and included articles published up to 2012. PubMed and Cochrane Library electronic databases were used in addition to hand‐searching to assess clinical outcomes for counselling and self‐management approaches for TMD treatment. The review yielded 581 records that were narrowed down to 7. All included studies were classified as blind‐randomized controlled clinical trials. The selected articles analysed revealed that counselling was able to improve tenderness upon masticatory muscle palpation and maximum mouth opening with and without pain in patients with TMD, with similar results to those of interocclusal appliances approaches. Thus, counselling‐ and self‐management‐based therapies could be considered a conservative low‐cost and beneficial treatment alternative for treating TMD to potentially improve psychological domains and remove harmful behaviours for the control of the signs and symptoms of TMD.
An Interpersonal Approach to Religiousness and Spirituality: Implications for Health and Well‐Being
Authors: Jordan Kevin D. , Masters Kevin S. , Hooker Stephanie A. , Ruiz John M. , Smith Timothy W.
Published: October 2013

The interpersonal tradition (Horowitz & Strack, 2011) provides a rich conceptual and methodological framework for theory‐driven research on mechanisms linking religiousness and spirituality (R/S) with health and well‐being. In three studies, we illustrate this approach to R/S. In Studies 1 and 2, undergraduates completed various self‐report measures of R/S, interpersonal style, and other aspects of interpersonal functioning. In Study 3, a community sample completed a wide variety of R/S measures and a measure of interpersonal style. Many, but not all, aspects of religiousness (e.g., overall religiousness, intrinsic religiousness) were associated with a warm interpersonal style, and most aspects and measures of spirituality were associated with a warm and somewhat dominant style. Spirituality and related constructs (i.e., gratitude, compassion) were associated with interpersonal goals that emphasize positive relationships with others, and with beneficial interpersonal outcomes (i.e., higher social support, less loneliness, and less conflict). However, some aspects of R/S (e.g., extrinsic religiousness, belief in a punishing God) were associated with a hostile interpersonal style. R/S have interpersonal correlates that may enhance or undermine health and emotional adjustment. This interpersonal perspective could help clarify why some aspects of religiousness and spirituality are beneficial and others are not.
Demographic and practice characteristics of Medicaid‐participating dentists
Authors: Logan Henrietta L. , Guo Yi , Dodd Virginia J. , Seleski Christine E. , Catalanotto Frank
Published: October 2013

Objectives

The challenges entailed in dental Medicaid programs are well documented. To increase our understanding of Medicaid participation, we surveyed Florida dentists to determine the demographic and practice characteristics of Medicaid‐participating dentists.

Methods

Our target population was practicing Florida dentists who treat children, including those who do not currently accept Medicaid as well as those who do. The final sample (n = 882) included (1) pediatric dentists and (2) general dentists who self‐reported that they treat children. Participants completed a survey concerning their Medicaid participation. Analyses included survey‐sample weighted chi‐square tests and multivariable logistic regression.

Results

More than two‐thirds of the sample dentists are not participating in Medicaid and will not consider doing so. Key findings are that Black dentists across the state and Hispanics in South Florida are more likely to participate in Medicaid than other groups of Florida dentists. Pediatric dentists are more likely to be Medicaid participants than general dentists, but nearly one‐fifth of the pediatric dentists might quit participation. Non–Medicaid providers are more likely to report not being busy enough in their practice than Medicaid providers.

Conclusions

If we are to address the shortage of Medicaid dental providers, increasing our understanding of how to capture the excess capacity among general dentists (the reported lack of busyness) in a way acceptable to dentists and to the State of Florida is an important first step. In addition, dental schools should consider implementing a track dedicated to training students for practice success within communities of highest dental need and to seek to increase the number of Black dental students.
Tumor necrosis factor‐α enhances RANKL expression in gingival epithelial cells via protein kinase A signaling
Authors: Fujihara R. , Usui M. , Yamamoto G. , Nishii K. , Tsukamoto Y. , Okamatsu Y. , Sato T. , Asou Y. , Nakashima K. , Yamamoto M.
Published: October 2013

Objective and Background

Periodontitis is an inflammatory disorder of the supporting tissue of teeth, which is composed of gingival soft tissue, cementum covering the tooth root, alveolar bone and periodontal ligament. The receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa B ligand (RANKL) is known to be an essential factor for osteoclastogenesis. Recent clinical studies indicate that levels of RANKL in the gingival crevicular fluid are increased while levels of its decoy receptor, osteoprotegerin (OPG), are decreased in patients with periodontitis. Although the gingival sulcus is composed of gingival tissue, RANKL and OPG expression in gingival epithelial cells is not fully understood. The aim of this study is to investigate the expression of RANKL and OPG in gingival tissue and which factors regulate RANKL expression in gingival epithelial cells.

Material and Methods

Reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction analysis, western blotting and immunohistochemistry were performed to confirm RANKL and OPG expression in gingival epithelial cells (GECs) and in gingival tissue. Immunostaining was also examined to confirm tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐α and TNF receptor type 1 (TNFR1) expression in gingival tissue. Ca9‐22 cells, a human gingival epithelial cell line and human primary GECs were treated with TNF‐α. Ca9‐22 cells were treated by antibodies against TNF receptors, an inhibitor and an activator of protein kinase A (PKA) signaling and inhibitors of p38, Erk and NF‐κB signaling to examine TNF‐α‐RANKL signaling pathways.

Results

RANKL mRNA and protein were expressed in GECs. Immunohistochemistry also showed RANKL expression in gingival tissue. On the other hand, the reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction and immunohistochemistry assay showed that GECs did not express OPG. In addition, TNF‐α and TNFR1 proteins were expressed in junctional epithelium. TNF‐α increased RANKL expression in GECs. TNF‐α‐induced RANKL expression was inhibited by an antibody against TNFR1 and an inhibitor of PKA signaling. Surprisingly, forskolin, a PKA activator, increased TNF‐α‐induced RANKL expression.

Conclusion

RANKL, TNF and TNFR1 were coexpressed in junctional epithelium of gingival tissue. TNF‐α induced RANKL expression via TNFR1 and PKA signaling in GECs of junctional epithelium.
Acoustic divergence in the rut vocalizations of Persian and European fallow deer
Authors: Stachowicz J. B. , Vannoni E. , Pitcher B. J. , Briefer E. F. , Geffen E. , McElligott A. G.
Published: October 2013

We conducted a study of the male rut vocalizations (groans) of two closely related species, Persian and European fallow deer. Persian fallow deer are endangered, restricted to Iran and Israel, and their rut vocalizations have never been studied. By contrast, European fallow deer are one of the most common deer species in the world, and have been the subject of numerous detailed studies. Persian bucks are approximately 16% larger than European bucks, and this can have important implications for vocalizations. Persian bucks were recorded in Israel, and European bucks were recorded in the UK and Ireland. We measured temporal, fundamental frequency‐related and formant‐related parameters of groans and determined which acoustic parameters differed among species and populations. The comparisons revealed important structural similarities and differences, with the differences more strongly related to temporal than spectral vocal parameters. Persian buck groans were relatively long, pulsed calls of almost 1‐s duration, with low fundamental frequencies, and relatively weak formant modulation. European buck groans were much shorter (0.38 s), but with similarly low fundamental frequencies and clearer formant modulation. We found some minor differences in the formant frequencies (F4 and F5) of calls of the two European fallow populations. Given the length of time since Persian and European fallow deer diverged, and that both their mitochondrial and nuclear genomes are very different, it is notable that the structure of their groans is still so similar. Our findings suggest that the factors influencing the evolution of these vocalizations (e.g. sensory system characteristics, environment and mate choice) have probably been similar for both species.
Bayesian parentage analysis reliably controls the number of false assignments in natural populations
Authors: Christie Mark R.
Published: October 2013

Parentage analysis in natural populations is a powerful tool for addressing a wide range of ecological and evolutionary questions. However, identifying parent–offspring pairs in samples collected from natural populations is often more challenging than simply resolving the Mendelian pattern of shared alleles. For example, large numbers of pairwise comparisons and limited numbers of genetic markers can contribute to incorrect assignments, whereby unrelated individuals are falsely identified as parent–offspring pairs. Determining which parentage methods are the least susceptible to making false assignments is an important challenge facing molecular ecologists. In a recent paper, Harrison et al. (2013a) address this challenge by comparing three commonly used parentage methods, including a Bayesian approach, in order to explore the effects of varied proportions of sampled parents on the accuracy of parentage assignments. Unfortunately, Harrison et al. made a simple error in using the Bayesian approach, which led them to incorrectly conclude that this method could not control the rate of false assignment. Here, I briefly outline the basic principles behind the Bayesian approach, identify the error made by Harrison et al., and provide detailed guidelines as to how the method should be correctly applied. Furthermore, using the exact data from Harrison et al., I show that the Bayesian approach actually provides greater control over the number of false assignments than either of the other tested methods. Lastly, I conclude with a brief introduction to solomon, a recently updated version of the Bayesian approach that can account for genotyping error, missing data and false matching.
Effectiveness of a program to facilitate recovery for people with long‐term mental illness in Japan
Authors: Chiba Rie , Miyamoto Yuki , Kawakami Norito , Harada Naoko
Published: October 2013

Recovery is defined as the process of developing new meaning and purpose in life as one grows beyond the catastrophic effects of mental illness. This study aimed to develop a program to facilitate recovery and examine its effectiveness in a randomized controlled trial. The program was developed with three components that enhance benefit finding, personal meaning, and a sense of happiness. Sixty‐three participants with long‐term mental illness were randomly allocated to the intervention group (n = 32) or the control group (n = 31). The intervention group attended eight 2‐h group sessions, with one held every week. Recovery was assessed at baseline, post‐intervention, and at a three‐month follow‐up. In the per‐protocol analysis, after excluding those who dropped out, the intervention group showed significant improvement in recovery compared with the control group (P < 0.05). In the intention‐to‐treat analysis, a repeated measures analysis of variance did not show any significant intervention effect (time × group) (P > 0.05). The program had the potential to facilitate recovery.
Religious and spiritual beliefs, self‐esteem, anxiety, and depression among nursing students
Authors: Papazisis Georgios , Nicolaou Panagiotis , Tsiga Evangelia , Christoforou Theodora , Sapountzi‐Krepia Despina
Published: October 2013

Research of the role of religious belief and/or spirituality has been conducted on a wide range of health‐related topics, across many disciplines, and in many countries. The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship between religious beliefs, self‐esteem, anxiety, and depression in nursing students in Cyprus. One hundred and twenty‐three nursing students were asked to complete a survey consisting of four self‐report questionnaires (Beck Depression Inventory, State–Trait Anxiety Inventory, The Royal Free Interview for Religious and Spiritual Beliefs, and Rosenberg Self‐esteem Scale). The lowest levels of depression were observed in the third and fourth study year. Normal self‐esteem levels were found in the majority of the students (71.3%) and most of them perceived current stress at mild levels. No significant differences on the basis of sex were observed. The vast majority (98.2%) of the students stated a strong religious and/or a spiritual belief that was strongly positively correlated with increased self‐esteem and negatively correlated with depression, current stress, and stress as personality trait.
The brain networks encoding visceral sensation in patients with gastrointestinal symptoms due to diabetic neuropathy
Authors: Lelic D. , Brock C. , Simrén M. , Frøkjaer J. B. , Søfteland E. , Dimcevski G. , Gregersen H. , Drewes A. M.
Published: October 2013

Background

Increasing evidence points to association between long‐term diabetes mellitus and abnormal brain processing. The aim of this study was to investigate central changes due to electrical stimulation in esophagus in patients with upper gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms due to diabetic neuropathy.

Methods

Twenty‐three diabetes patients with upper GI symptoms and 27 healthy controls were included. A standard ambulatory 24‐h electrocardiography was carried out. 122‐channel esophageal evoked brain potentials to electrical stimulation were acquired. Brain source/network analysis was performed. Gastroparesis Cardinal Symptom Index was used to evaluate upper GI symptoms and SF‐36 questionnaire was utilized to assess patients' quality of life (QOL).

Key Results

Diabetes patients with GI symptoms showed modifications in three brain networks: (i) brainstem/operculum/frontal cortex, (ii) operculum/cingulate, and (iii) mid‐cingulate/anterior‐cingulate/operculum/deep limbic structures. Operculum brain source in patients was localized deeper and more anterior in all three networks. The shift of operculum source was correlated with the severity of upper GI symptoms, decreased heart beat‐to‐beat interval, and decreased SD of the intervals. The activation of the first network was delayed in patients. Operculum source had higher activity than cingulate in the second network in patients, and this was correlated with decreased physical QOL. Deep limbic source was localized deeper in patients, which also correlated with decreased physical QOL.

Conclusions & Inferences

This study indicates involvement of central nervous system in diabetes. Reorganization within opercular cortex was correlated with GI symptoms suggesting that operculo‐cingulate cortex could contribute to development and maintenance of GI symptoms in diabetes patients.
Accumulation of anthocyanins in tomato skin extends shelf life
Authors: Bassolino Laura , Zhang Yang , Schoonbeek Henk‐jan , Kiferle Claudia , Perata Pierdomenico , Martin Cathie
Published: October 2013

Shelf life is one of the most important traits for the tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) industry. Two key factors, post‐harvest over‐ripening and susceptibility to post‐harvest pathogen infection, determine tomato shelf life.

Anthocyanins accumulate in the skin of Aft/Aft atv/atv tomatoes, the result of introgressing alleles affecting anthocyanin biosynthesis in fruit from two wild relatives of tomato, which results in extended fruit shelf life. Compared with ordinary, anthocyanin‐less tomatoes, the fruits of Aft/Aft atv/atv keep longer during storage and are less susceptible to Botrytis cinerea, a major tomato pathogen, post‐harvest.

Using genetically modified tomatoes over‐producing anthocyanins, we confirmed that skin‐specific accumulation of anthocyanins in tomato is sufficient to reduce the susceptibility of fruit to Botrytis cinerea.

Our data indicate that accumulation of anthocyanins in tomato fruit, achieved either by traditional breeding or genetic engineering can be an effective way to extend tomato shelf life.
Family‐based interventions for reducing sedentary time in youth: a systematic review of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Marsh S. , Foley L. S. , Wilks D. C. , Maddison R.
Published: October 2013

Family involvement in interventions to reduce sedentary time may help foster appropriate long‐term screen‐based habits in children. This review systematically synthesized evidence from randomized controlled trials of interventions with a family component that targeted reduction of sedentary time, including TV viewing, video games and computer use, in children.

MEDLINE, PubMed, PsycInfo, CINAHL and Embase were searched from inception through March 2012. Seventeen articles were considered eligible and included in the review.

Studies were judged to be at low‐to‐moderate risk of bias. Despite inconsistent study results, level of parental involvement, rather than the setting itself, appeared an important determinant of intervention success. Studies including a parental component of medium‐to‐high intensity were consistently associated with statistically significant changes in sedentary behaviours. Participant age was also identified as a determinant of intervention outcomes; all three studies conducted in pre‐school children demonstrated significant decreases in sedentary time. Finally, TV exposure appeared to be related to changes in energy intake rather than physical activity.

Future studies should assess the effects of greater parental involvement and child age on success of sedentary behaviour interventions. More research is required to better understand the relationship between screen time and health behaviours, particularly energy intake.
Paranasal sinus osteoma: review of literature
Authors: Mali S.B.
Published: October 2013

The osteomas are osseous lesions with slow and asymptomatic growth that most of the times is a finding in radiological exams requested for other reason. It's the most common benign neoplasm of the paranasal sinuses. The osteomas are located mainly in the frontal sinus (37–80%), followed by the ethmoidal sinuses (20%), maxillary sinuses and rarely in the sphenoid sinus.

Although osteoid osteoma is rare in paranasal sinuses, it should be considered if there is a bone density mass and complete excision should be performed with care. Although osteomas are benign tumours, they may enlarge progressively and produce complications. Their resection is not free of risks, so there is some controversy about the management of asymptomatic patients.

Endonasal surgery reduces the morbidity of the treatment but the location and size of the lesions do not allow to employ this technique in all cases.
Prevalence of Cardiac Sarcoidosis in Patients Presenting with Monomorphic Ventricular Tachycardia
Authors: NERY PABLO B. , Mc ARDLE BRIAN A. , REDPATH CALUM J. , LEUNG EUGENE , LEMERY ROBERT , DEKEMP ROBERT , YANG JIM , KEREN ARIEH , BEANLANDS ROB S. , BIRNIE DAVID H.
Published: October 2013

Introduction

Sarcoidosis is a granulomatous disease of unknown etiology, which involves the heart in 5–25% of cases. Although ventricular tachycardia (VT) has been reported as the first presentation of sarcoidosis, its prevalence has not previously been investigated. In this prospective study, we sought to systematically investigate the prevalence of cardiac sarcoidosis (CS) in patients presenting with monomorphic VT (MMVT) and no previous history of sarcoidosis.

Methods

Consecutive patients presenting with MMVT to a tertiary care center were screened for inclusion. Patients with idiopathic VT, VT secondary to coronary artery disease, or prior diagnosis of sarcoidosis were excluded. Included patients underwent F‐18‐fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (PET) scan. In subjects with PET scanning suggestive of active myocardial inflammation, histological diagnosis was confirmed through extracardiac or endomyocardial biopsy (EMB).

Results

A total of 182 patients presented to our institution with VT between February 2010 and September 2012 and 14 subjects met inclusion criteria. Within this group, six of 14 (42%) patients had abnormal PET scans suggesting active myocardial inflammation. Four of the six patients had tissue biopsies that were diagnostic of sarcoidosis; the remaining two patients had guided EMB indicating nonspecific myocarditis. Atrioventricular block was observed in three of four (75%) patients with CS and none in 10 of the others (P = 0.022). Three of the four patients had pulmonary sarcoidosis and one patient had isolated CS. All four patients were treated with corticosteroids.

Conclusion

In this prospective study, four of 14 (28%) patients presenting with MMVT (without idiopathic VT, ischemic VT, or known sarcoidosis) had CS as the underlying etiology. Clinicians should consider screening for CS in patients with unexplained MMVT.
Postoperative emergence delirium in pediatric patients undergoing cataract surgery – a comparison of desflurane and sevoflurane
Authors: Sethi Sameer , Ghai Babita , Ram Jagat , Wig Jyotsna
Published: October 2013

Background

Desflurane and sevoflurane are associated with postoperative emergence delirium (ED) in children. The study aimed to compare the use of desflurane and sevoflurane to determine the postoperative ED in children undergoing cataract surgery using the validated Pediatric Anesthesia Emergence Delirium (PAED) scale.

Methods

In this randomized double‐blinded study, 88 children of American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) grade I and II aged 2–6 years, anesthesia was maintained with 1–1.2 MAC concentration of desflurane or sevoflurane after induction with sevoflurane. Subtenon block was administered in all children with 0.08–0.10 ml·kg−1 of 0.5% bupivacaine before surgical incision. Primary outcome measured was PAED scale at different time intervals between the two groups, and secondary outcome measured was preoperative anxiety scores, postoperative pain scores, emergence, incidence of delirium and adverse effects.

Results

Pediatric Anesthesia Emergence Delirium (PAED) scale showed no statistical difference between sevoflurane and desflurane at different time intervals. Incidence of ED using the cutoff of >12 in PAED scale was 8 of 44 (18.18%) in sevoflurane group and 9 of 44 (20.45%) in desflurane groups (P = 1.000). Emergence from anesthesia was faster in desflurane group (P = 0.001). Correlation between the m‐YPAS anxiety scale and PAED scale in either group did not find any relationship (correlation coefficient = −0.060, P = 0.579). No correlation between the Face, Legs, Activity, Cry and Consolability (FLACC) scale and Pediatric Anesthesia Emergence Delirium (PAED) scale was found in 17 patients who had ED (correlation coefficient = 0.191, P‐value = 0.462). Five patients of 17 (i.e., three patients in Group S and two patients in Group D) had PAED >12 but FLACC <4.

Conclusion

Emergence delirium (ED) after desflurane and sevoflurane anesthesia was comparable using a validated PAED scale in pediatric cataract surgery. There was no correlation between preoperative anxiety and ED in these children; however, children with higher pain scores were more likely to have a higher ED.
Constitutive or seed‐specific overexpression of Arabidopsis G‐protein γ subunit 3 (AGG3) results in increased seed and oil production and improved stress tolerance in Camelina sativa
Authors: Roy Choudhury Swarup , Riesselman Adam J. , Pandey Sona
Published: October 2013

Heterotrimeric G‐proteins consisting of Gα, Gβ and Gγ subunits play an integral role in mediating multiple signalling pathways in plants. A novel, recently identified plant‐specific Gγ protein, AGG3, has been proposed to be an important regulator of organ size and mediator of stress responses in Arabidopsis, whereas its potential homologs in rice are major quantitative trait loci for seed size and panicle branching. To evaluate the role of AGG3 towards seed and oil yield improvement, the gene was overexpressed in Camelina sativa, an oilseed crop of the Brassicaceae family. Analysis of multiple homozygous T4 transgenic Camelina lines showed that constitutive overexpression of AGG3 resulted in faster vegetative as well as reproductive growth accompanied by an increase in photosynthetic efficiency. Moreover, when expressed constitutively or specifically in seed tissue, AGG3 was found to increase seed size, seed mass and seed number per plant by 15%–40%, effectively resulting in significantly higher oil yield per plant. AGG3 overexpressing Camelina plants also exhibited improved stress tolerance. These observations draw a strong link between the roles of AGG3 in regulating two critical yield parameters, seed traits and plant stress responses, and reveal an effective biotechnological tool to dramatically increase yield in agricultural crops.
Ectopic expression of a BZR1‐1D transcription factor in brassinosteroid signalling enhances carotenoid accumulation and fruit quality attributes in tomato
Authors: Liu Lihong , Jia Chengguo , Zhang Min , Chen Delong , Chen Sixue , Guo Rongfang , Guo Deping , Wang Qiaomei
Published: October 2013

The brassinosteroid (BR) response transcription factor Brassinazole resistant 1 (BZR1)‐mediated BR signalling regulates many specific developmental processes including fruit ripening. Here, we report the effect of 2,4‐epibrassinolide (EBR) and BZR1‐1D overexpression on carotenoid accumulation and quality attributes of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) fruit. EBR‐treated pericarp discs of ethylene‐insensitive mutant, Never ripe, accumulated significantly more carotenoid than those of the control. The results suggest that BR seems to be involved in modulating pigments accumulation. When three independent transgenic lines overexpressing the Arabidopsis BZR1‐1D were used to evaluate the role of BZR1 in regulating tomato fruit carotenoid accumulation and quality attributes, fruits of all three transgenic lines exhibited enhanced carotenoid accumulation and increased soluble solid, soluble sugar and ascorbic acid contents during fruit ripening. In addition, the fruits of two transgenic lines showed dark green shoulder at mature green stage, in accordance with the up‐regulated expression level of SlGLK2, which is involved in chloroplast development. Our results indicate the importance of BZR1‐centred BR signalling in regulating carotenoid accumulation and quality attributes of tomato fruit and the potential application of the BZR1‐like(s) for improvement of nutritional quality and flavour of tomato through genetic engineering.
Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation for infants with idiopathic myelofibrosis
Authors: Hussein Ayad Ahmed , Hamadah Tuka , Domm Jennifer , Al‐Zaben Abdulhadi , Frangoul Haydar
Published: October 2013

IMF is a rare disease in children that can present during infancy and has a protracted course. The only known curative approach for this disease in adult patients is allogeneic HSCT. There are very few reports describing the long‐term outcome of young children following stem cell transplantation for IMF. We report on eight patients less than two yr of age with IMF that did not resolve with supportive care measures. All patients underwent myeloablative conditioning regimen with busulfan and cyclophosphamide ± ATG followed by HSCT from matched related (n = 6) or unrelated donor (n = 2). All patients achieved neutrophil and platelet engraftment. Four patients had grade II‐III acute GVHD, and chronic GVHD developed in five patients (three mild and two severe). At a median follow‐up of eight and a half yr (0.7–9), all patients are alive with complete resolution of their hematologic manifestations. At the last follow‐up, all patients had normal endocrine function except for one patient who developed hypothyroidism. To date, this is the largest cohort of young children with IMF treated successfully with HSCT, with the longest duration of follow‐up. In conclusion, our study showed that HSCT is a curative option for infants with IMF.