bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A public appetite for poultry welfare regulation reform: Why higher welfare labelling is not enough
Authors: Parker Christine , Scrinis Gyorgy , Carey Rachel , Boehm Laura
Published: November 2018

This article argues that the growth of free-range labelled egg and chicken shows that the public wish to buy foods produced via higher welfare standards. It summarises the main reasons for dissatisfaction with the current regulation of animal welfare standards in Australia and shows that labelling for consumer choice is not enough to address public concerns. It critically evaluates the degree to which recently proposed new animal welfare standards and guidelines for poultry would address these problems and concludes that the new standards are not sufficient and that more responsive, effective and independent government regulation of animal welfare is required.
Women's Work and Children's Nutrition in South-Western Kenya
Authors: Rubin Deborah S.
Published: November 2018

This paper reports a time-allocation study conducted in south Nyanza, Kenya. Data on household composition, identifying each household member, age, and relationship to each other were collected from 75 households. The data describe the internal household division of labour, especially how men and women differently allocate productive and reproductive work time, and how patterns of labour allocation differ between households that have entered into contracted sugar cane production and those that have not. While the sugar cane scheme has resulted in higher aggregate household incomes for its participants, nutritional status has not improved measurably. Other environmental factors such as water quality, sanitation, and access to medical care may play stronger roles in child nutrition status than women's time-allocation and participation in the sugar cane scheme. The results reveal gender-specific patterns of labour that may have consequences over the long run for children's nutrition status.
Crop Improvement Programmes and Nutrition in Malawi: Exploring the Links
Authors: Ferguson Anne E. , Millard Ann V. , Khaila Stanley W.
Published: November 2018

A model has been developed to conceptualize the relationships among a series of complex, interrelated factors that account for high levels of malnutrition among children in Malawi. It can be used as a tool for theoretical analysis and for programme evaluation. In this paper, the model is used to examine how interventions in crop-breeding strategies interact with existing rural social structure and influence household nutritional well-being in Malawi. It recognizes three tiers of causation: proximate, intermediate, and inclusive. The proximate tier refers to the immediate biomedical causes of malnutrition; the intermediate causes are those behavioural patterns that increase exposure to the proximate causes; and inclusive causes refer to the broad, social, economic, and cultural processes and structures in which the proximate and intermediate causes of nutritional status are embedded.
Use of Rapid Anthropological Procedures by Health Personnel in Central America
Authors: Hurtado Elena
Published: November 2018

This article discusses the development of a simplified RAP (rapid assessment procedures) anthropological field guide for health care providers at the local level. The main purpose of the field guide is to help health care providers to learn what the people in the community know and do to maintain health and prevent and cure illness as well a why they do it so that they can incorporate that knowledge into their health care activities in the community.
Feeding Practices and Growth in a Healthy Population of Cuban Infants
Authors: Amador Manuel , Hermelo Mirta P. , Valdes Mario , Ruiz Marcos , Bueno Rafael
Published: November 2018

The feeding practices for a selected sample of 100 infants and the infants’ growth were followed from hospital discharge until one year of age. Normal, full-term newborn infants weighing more than 2,500 g whose mothers were 20–30 years old, literate, and married and had received regular prenatal care were selected for the study. The mode of feeding and the infant's weight, length, and body muss index were recorded every 15 days up to 360 days of age. A low prevalence of breast-feeding and early weaning, with early introduction of solid foods, were found. Infants who were bottle-fed from birth were heavier at 90 and 360 days but did not differ in length from those who were breast-fed. This difference was probably due to a higher energy intake in the infants who were never breast-fed.
Data Collection of the Incap Follow-Up Study: Organization, Coverage, and Sample Sizes
Authors: Rivera Juan , Martorell Reynaldo , Castro Hilda
Published: November 2018

This paper describes the data collection of a follow-up study of subjects who received nutrition supplementation during their early childhood. At the time of follow-up, the subjects were between 10 and 26 years old. The study subjects; the tests, measurements, and interviews made on them; the organization and logistics of the data collection; the training, supervision, and data flow processes; and the teams responsible for the data collection are all described briefly. Coverage rates are shown by village, study area, migration status, sex, and age cohort. Potential biases due to incomplete coverage are discussed.
Nutritional Effects of Export-Crop Production in Papua New Guinea: A Review of the Evidence
Authors: Heywood Peter F. , Hide Robin L.
Published: November 2018

The effects of cash cropping on nutrition in Papua New Guinea are reviewed. The interpretation of the available evidence is complicated by the introduction of cash cropping simultaneously with services such as health and education of the rural population. However, there is indication that the growth of children improved over the period in which cash cropping increased, particularly in the highlands, where, as a result of the later introduction of cash crops, more baseline data are available. There is no reason to believe that the same effect did not occur in the lowlands, where the infant mortality rate fell progressively over the same period. There is also evidence of an increase in the height and weight of adults, as well as an increase in the prevalence of degenerative diseases. Programmes need to be developed that retain the important benefits of child health and at the same time arrest the increasing prevalence of degenerative diseases in adults.
Leucaena Leucocephala a Nutrition Profile
Authors: Sethi Poonam , Kulkarni Pushpa R.
Published: November 2018

Leucaena leucocephala is one of the fastest-growing leguminous trees. Its foliage is used as animal feed, and its leaves and seeds are used as human food in Central America, Indonesia, and Thailand. Mimosine, the toxic, non-protein amino acid in Leucaena, causes alopecia, growth retardation, cataract, goitre, decreased fertility, and mortality in non-ruminants. The mechanism of this toxicity is complicated. Mimosine probably exerts its toxic action by blocking the metabolic pathways of aromatic amino acids and tryptophan; by chelating metals; by antagonizing the action of vitamin B6; by inhibiting DNA, RNA, and protein synthesis; by exerting adverse effects on collagen biosynthesis; and by interfering in the metabolism of some amino acids, primarily glycine. Besides mimosine, other anti-nutritional and toxic factors in L. leucocephala add to its toxicity. Heat, moisture, chemical treatments, ensiling, rotation feeding, cutting management of the plant, new hybrids, introducing micro-organisms into the rumen of ruminants that are unable to detoxify mimosine, and preparing protein isolate from Leucaena seeds have all been used to overcome mimosine toxicity.
Adoption of Hybrid Maize in Zambia: Effects on Gender Roles, Food Consumption, and Nutrition
Authors: Kumar Shubh K.
Published: November 2018

This report examines the role of hybrid maize adoption in Eastern Province, Zambia, in improving the welfare of the population. Improving agricultural productivity of farmers in Zambia is important for the success of the country's new economic growth strategy. Past investment in hybrid maize research has developed a potential for increased productivity that needs to be fully utilized.
Benefits of a School Breakfast Programme among Andean Children in Huaraz, Peru
Authors: Jacoby Enrique , Cueto Santiago , Pollitt Ernesto
Published: November 2018

A randomized, controlled trial measured the short-term impact of the Peruvian school breakfast programme on the diet, school attendance, and cognition of fourth- and fifth-graders. Ten schools on the rural outskirts of the Andean city of Huaraz were randomly assigned to a control or a treatment group. The programme significantly increased (p <.01) dietary intakes of energy by 15.2%, protein by 16.1%, and iron by 60%, and improved rates of attendance. Analysis of covariance also showed improved performance on a vocabulary test among heavier children, as indicated by a positive and significant weight x treatment interaction (parameter = 0.37; F = 4.97; p < .05). It is plausible that among stunted children, being relatively overweight (by the weight-for-height index) poses a cognitive risk that can be partially reversed by a school breakfast.
Large-Scale Production of Salt Fortified with Iodine and Iron
Authors: Ranganathan S. , Reddy Vinodini , Ramamoorthy P.
Published: November 2018

A new dry-mixing process for producing iodine- and iron-fortified salt on a large scale (20 30 metric tons per shift) was developed in salt factories at Valinokkam and Hyderabad, India. Common salt is mixed with 1% sodium hexametaphosphate, 0.5% ferrous sulphate heptahydrate, and 0.0055% potassium iodide or 0.007% potassium iodate in a ribbon blender. Dry mixing is superior to spray mixing and is associated with no operational problems. The fortified salt produced by this method retains the original colour of the unfortified salt, and the distribution of iodine and iron is uniform. The acceptability of the fortified salt is satisfactory, as various food preparations using the product are indistinguishable in colour, taste, and flavour from those containing unfortified salt
Mitigating the Effects of Drought through Food Security and Nutrition Monitoring: Lessons from Malawi
Authors: Babu Suresh Chandra , Chapasuka Evance
Published: November 2018

This article uses a case study from Malawi to demonstrate the use of a Food Security and Nutrition Monitoring (FSNM) system for managing and mitigating the effects of drought. The implementation of FSNM during the drought emergency is presented, along with a description of the process of information generation and the use of results in emergency interventions. Presenting the lessons learned from the Malawi experience for the benefit of future drought-management and disaster-prevention efforts in other sub-Saharan African countries, the article concludes that a decentralized system of data collection, processing, and analysis is more likely to be successful in planning interventions for food security and nutritional improvements during periods of drought.
Topological Sensitivity in the Recognition of Disoriented Figures
Authors: Kanbe Fumio
Published: November 2018

A previous study by the author found that discrimination latencies for figure pairs with the same topological structure (isomorphic pairs) were longer than for pairs with different topological structures (nonisomorphic pairs). These results suggest that topological sensitivity occurs during figure recognition. However, sameness was judged in terms of both shape and orientation. Using this criterion, faster discrimination of nonisomorphic pairs may have arisen from the detection of differences in the corresponding locations of the paired figures, which is not a topological property. The current study examined whether topological sensitivity occurs even when identity judgments are based on the sameness of shapes, irrespective of their orientation, where the sameness of location is not ensured. The current results suggested the involvement of topological sensitivity, indicating that processing of structural properties (invariant features) of a figure may be prioritized over processing of superficial features, such as location, length, and angles, in figure recognition.
Are there patients missing from community heart failure registers? An audit of clinical practice
Authors: Cuthbert Joseph J , Gopal Jayanthi , Crundall-Goode Amanda , Clark Andrew L
Published: November 2018

Background

General practitioners in the UK are financially incentivised, via the Quality Outcomes Framework, to maintain a record of all patients at their practice with heart failure and manage them appropriately. The prevalence of heart failure recorded in primary care registers (0.7–1.0%) is less than reported in epidemiological studies (3–5%). Using an audit of clinical practice, we set out to investigate if there are patients ‘missing’ from primary care heart failure registers and what the underlying mechanisms might be.

Design

The design of this study was as an audit of clinical practice at a UK general practice ( n = 9390).

Methods

Audit software (ENHANCE-HF) was used to identify patients who may have heart failure via a series of hierarchical searches of electronic records. Heart failure was then confirmed or excluded based on the electronic records by a heart failure specialist nurse and patients added to the register. Outcome data for patients without heart failure was collected after two years.

Results

Heart failure prevalence was 0.63% at baseline and 1.12% after the audit. Inaccurate coding accounted for the majority of missing patients. Amongst patients without heart failure who were taking a loop diuretic, the rate of incident heart failure was 13% and the rate of death or hospitalization with heart failure was 25% respectively during two-year follow-up.

Conclusion

There are many patients missing from community heart failure registers which may detriment patient outcome and practice income. Patients without heart failure who take loop diuretics are at high risk of heart failure-related events.
Iron deficiency
Authors: Camaschella Clara
Published: November 2018

Iron deficiency anemia affects >1.2 billions individuals worldwide, and iron deficiency in the absence of anemia is even more frequent. Total-body (absolute) iron deficiency is caused by physiologically increased iron requirements in children, adolescents, young and pregnant women, by reduced iron intake, or by pathological defective absorption or chronic blood loss. Adaptation to iron deficiency at the tissue level is controlled by iron regulatory proteins to increase iron uptake and retention; at the systemic level, suppression of the iron hormone hepcidin increases iron release to plasma by absorptive enterocytes and recycling macrophages. The diagnosis of absolute iron deficiency is easy unless the condition is masked by inflammatory conditions. All cases of iron deficiency should be assessed for treatment and underlying cause. Special attention is needed in areas endemic for malaria and other infections to avoid worsening of infection by iron treatment. Ongoing efforts aim at optimizing iron salts–based therapy by protocols of administration based on the physiology of hepcidin control and reducing the common adverse effects of oral iron. IV iron, especially last-generation compounds administered at high doses in single infusions, is becoming an effective alternative in an increasing number of conditions because of a more rapid and persistent hematological response and acceptable safety profile. Risks/benefits of the different treatments should be weighed in a personalized therapeutic approach to iron deficiency.
Insights into the genomic landscape of MYD88 wild-type Waldenström macroglobulinemia
Authors: Hunter Zachary R. , Xu Lian , Tsakmaklis Nickolas , Demos Maria G. , Kofides Amanda , Jimenez Cristina , Chan Gloria G. , Chen Jiaji , Liu Xia , Munshi Manit , Gustine Joshua , Meid Kirsten , Patterson Christopher J. , Yang Guang , Dubeau Toni , Samur Mehmet K. , Castillo Jorge J. , Anderson Kenneth C. , Munshi Nikhil C. , Treon Steven P.
Published: November 2018

Activating MYD88 mutations are present in 95% of Waldenström macroglobulinemia (WM) patients, and trigger NF-κB through BTK and IRAK. The BTK inhibitor ibrutinib is active in MYD88-mutated (MYD88MUT) WM patients, but shows lower activity in MYD88 wild-type (MYD88WT) disease. MYD88WT patients also show shorter overall survival, and increased risk of disease transformation in some series. The genomic basis for these findings remains to be clarified. We performed whole exome and transcriptome sequencing of sorted tumor samples from 18 MYD88WT patients and compared findings with WM patients with MYD88MUT disease. We identified somatic mutations predicted to activate NF-κB (TBL1XR1, PTPN13, MALT1, BCL10, NFKB2, NFKBIB, NFKBIZ, and UDRL1F), impart epigenomic dysregulation (KMT2D, KMT2C, and KDM6A), or impair DNA damage repair (TP53, ATM, and TRRAP). Predicted NF-κB activating mutations were downstream of BTK and IRAK, and many overlapped with somatic mutations found in diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. A distinctive transcriptional profile in MYD88WT WM was identified, although most differentially expressed genes overlapped with MYD88MUT WM consistent with the many clinical and morphological characteristics that are shared by these WM subgroups. Overall survival was adversely affected by mutations in DNA damage response in MYD88WT WM patients. The findings depict genomic and transcriptional events associated with MYD88WT WM and provide mechanistic insights for disease transformation, decreased ibrutinib activity, and novel drug approaches for this population.
Pros and cons of mouse models for studying osteoarthritis
Authors: Bapat Santul , Hubbard Daniel , Munjal Akul , Hunter Monte , Fulzele Sadanand
Published: November 2018

Osteoarthritis (OA) is one of the most common chronic conditions in the world today. It results in breakdown of cartilage in joints and causes the patient to experience intense pain and even disability. The pathophysiology of OA is not fully understood; therefore, there is currently no cure for OA. Many researchers are investigating the pathophysiology of the disease and attempting to develop methods to alleviate the symptoms or cure the OA entirely using animal models. Most studies on OA use animal models; this is necessary as the disease develops very slowly in humans and presents differently in each patient. This makes it difficult to effectively study the progression of osteoarthritis. Animal models can be spontaneous, in which OA naturally occurs in the animal. Genetic modifications can be used to make the mice more susceptible to developing OA. Osteoarthritis can also be induced via surgery, chemical injections, or non‐invasive trauma. This review aims to describe animal models of inducing osteoarthritis with a focus on the models used on mice and their advantages and disadvantages that each model presents.
Gendered labour regimes: on the organizing of domestic workers in urban China
Authors: Tong Xin
Published: November 2018

The development of China domestic services sector relies on a gendered labour regime that is also at the basis of the country rapid economic growth. Domestic workers face many obstacles at defending their rights. The state’s Labour Contract Law does not consider them. Besides, market competition and urban mainstream culture place domestic workers in marginal and atomized positions. But their gender identity, as well as their migrant workers’identity, have become useful resources for the establishment of social support relationships. The networks build on this double identity procure them the emotional support they need and contribute to improve their ability.
Detection of High-Risk Human Papillomavirus in Oral Cavity Squamous Cell Carcinoma Using Multiple Analytes and Their Role in Patient Survival
Authors: Palve Vinayak , Bagwan Jamir , Krishnan Neeraja M. , Pareek Manisha , Chandola Udita , Suresh Amritha , Siddappa Gangotri , James Bonney L. , Kekatpure Vikram , Kuriakose Moni Abraham , Panda Binay
Published: November 2018

Purpose

Accurate detection of human papillomavirus (HPV) in oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is essential to understanding the role of HPV in disease prognosis and management of patients. We used different analytes and methods to understand the true prevalence of HPV in a cohort of patients with OSCC with different molecular backgrounds, and we correlated HPV data with patient survival.

Methods

We integrated data from multiple analytes (HPV DNA, HPV RNA, and p16), assays (immunohistochemistry, polymerase chain reaction [PCR], quantitative PCR [qPCR], and digital PCR), and molecular changes (somatic mutations and DNA methylation) from 153 patients with OSCC to correlate p16 expression, HPV DNA, and HPV RNA with HPV incidence and patient survival.

Results

High prevalence (33% to 58%) of HPV16/18 DNA did not correlate with the presence of transcriptionally active viral genomes (15%) in tumors. Eighteen percent of the tumors were p16 positive and only 6% were both HPV DNA and HPV RNA positive. Most tumors with relatively high copy number HPV DNA and/or HPV RNA, but not with HPV DNA alone (irrespective of copy number), were wild-type for TP53 and CASP8 genes. In our study, p16 protein, HPV DNA, and HPV RNA, either alone or in combination, did not correlate with patient survival. Nine HPV-associated genes stratified the virus-positive from the virus-negative tumor group with high confidence ( P < .008) when HPV DNA copy number and/or HPV RNA were considered to define HPV positivity, and not HPV DNA alone, irrespective of copy number ( P < .2).

Conclusion

In OSCC, the presence of both HPV RNA and p16 is rare. HPV DNA alone is not an accurate measure of HPV positivity and therefore may not be informative. HPV DNA, HPV RNA, and p16 do not correlate with patients’ outcome.
Endocrine Disruption of Androgenic Activity by Perfluoroalkyl Substances: Clinical and Experimental Evidence
Authors: Di Nisio Andrea , Sabovic Iva , Valente Umberto , Tescari Simone , Rocca Maria Santa , Guidolin Diego , Dall’Acqua Stefano , Acquasaliente Laura , Pozzi Nicola , Plebani Mario , Garolla Andrea , Foresta Carlo
Published: November 2018

Background

Considerable attention has been paid to perfluoroalkyl compounds (PFCs) because of their worldwide presence in humans, wildlife, and environment. A wide variety of toxicological effects is well supported in animals, including testicular toxicity and male infertility. For these reasons, the understanding of epidemiological associations and of the molecular mechanisms involved in the endocrine-disrupting properties of PFCs on human reproductive health is a major concern.

Objective

To investigate the relationship between PFC exposure and male reproductive health.

Design

This study was performed within a screening protocol to evaluate male reproductive health in high schools.

Patients

This is a cross-sectional study on 212 exposed males from the Veneto region, one of the four areas worldwide heavily polluted with PFCs, and 171 nonexposed controls.

Main Outcome Measures

Anthropometrics, seminal parameters, and sex hormones were measured in young males from exposed areas compared with age-matched controls. We also performed biochemical studies in established experimental models.

Results

We found that increased levels of PFCs in plasma and seminal fluid positively correlate with circulating testosterone (T) and with a reduction of semen quality, testicular volume, penile length, and anogenital distance. Experimental evidence points toward an antagonistic action of perfluorooctanoic acid on the binding of T to androgen receptor (AR) in a gene reporter assay, a competition assay on an AR-coated surface plasmon resonance chip, and an AR nuclear translocation assay.

Discussion

This study documents that PFCs have a substantial impact on human health as they interfere with hormonal pathways, potentially leading to male infertility.
Comparison of Invasive and Noninvasive Blood Pressure Measurements for Assessing Signal Complexity and Surgical Risk in Cardiac Surgical Patients
Authors: Gibson Lauren E. , Henriques Teresa S. , Costa Madalena D. , Davis Roger B. , Mittleman Murray A. , Mathur Pooja , Subramaniam Balachundhar
Published: November 2018

BACKGROUND:

Continuous arterial blood pressure (ABP) is typically recorded by placement of an intraarterial catheter. Recently, noninvasive ABP monitors have been shown to be comparable in accuracy to invasive measurements. In a previous study, we showed that the fluctuations in beat-to-beat ABP measurements were not random variations but had a complex dynamical structure, and that ABP dynamical complexity was inversely associated with surgical risk estimated using the Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS) index. Dynamical complexity is a mathematical construct that reflects the capacity of a physiological system to adapt to stimuli. The objectives of present study were to: (1) determine whether noninvasive beat-to-beat ABP measurements also exhibit a complex temporal structure; (2) compare the complexity of noninvasive versus invasive ABP time series; and (3) quantify the relationship between the complexity of noninvasive ABP time series and the STS risk scores.

METHODS:

Fifteen adult patients undergoing coronary artery bypass graft, valve, or combined coronary artery bypass graft/valve surgery were enrolled in this observational study. Preoperative ABP waveforms were simultaneously recorded for ≥15 minutes using a radial artery catheter (invasive) and a continuous noninvasive arterial pressure monitor. Beat-to-beat systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), pulse pressure (PP), and mean arterial pressure (MAP) time series were extracted from the continuous waveforms. Complexity was assessed using the multiscale entropy method. The Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used to compare the mean ranks of indices derived from invasive versus noninvasive ABP time series. Spearman correlation coefficients were used to quantify the relationship between invasive and noninvasive indices. Linear regression analysis was used to quantify the association between each of the complexity indices and the STS risk scores.

RESULTS:

Beat-to-beat fluctuations in noninvasive ABP measurements were not random but complex; however, their degree of complexity was lower than that of fluctuations in invasively obtained ABP signals (SBP: 7.05 vs 8.66, P < .001; DBP: 7.40 vs 8.41, P < .001; PP: 6.83 vs 8.82, P < .001; and MAP: 7.17 vs 8.68, P < .005). Invasive and noninvasive indices for MSEΣ·slope showed good correlation (r
s) (0.53 for SBP, 0.79 for DBP, 0.42 for PP, 0.60 for MAP). The complexity of noninvasive ABP time series (−0.70 [−1.28 to −0.11]; P = .023 for DBP), like that of invasive time series (−0.94 [−1.52 to −0.35]; P = .004 for DBP), was inversely associated with estimated surgical risk in patients undergoing cardiovascular operations.

CONCLUSIONS:

Our results support the use of noninvasive ABP monitoring in computations of complexity-based indices that correlate with estimated surgical risk.
Serum Concentrations of Lidocaine During Bariatric Surgery
Authors: Carabalona Jean-François , Delwarde Benjamin , Duclos Antoine , Le Goff Mary-Charlotte , Moulsma Mustapha , Citterio-Quentin Antony , Bouffard Yves , Rimmelé Thomas
Published: November 2018

Lidocaine has been shown to be clinically beneficial during bariatric surgery. However, information about lidocaine serum concentrations in this setting is scarce. This prospective clinical trial included 42 obese patients undergoing laparoscopic bariatric surgery. They received lidocaine based on adjusted body weight. Administration began with a 1.5 mg·kg−1 bolus of intravenous lidocaine followed by a continuous infusion of 2 mg·kg−1·hour−1. After skin closure, administration was decreased to 1 mg·kg−1·hour−1 until discharge from the recovery room. No serum concentrations of lidocaine were outside the usual accepted range (1.5–5 µg·mL−1).
A simplified mechanism for anisotropic constriction in Drosophila mesoderm
Authors: Doubrovinski Konstantin , Tchoufag Joel , Mandadapu Kranthi
Published: November 2018

Understanding how forces and material properties give rise to tissue shapes is a fundamental issue in developmental biology. Although Drosophila gastrulation is a well-used system for investigating tissue morphogenesis, a consensus mechanical model that explains all the key features of this process does not exist. One key feature of Drosophila gastrulation is its anisotropy: the mesoderm constricts much more along one axis than along the other. Previous explanations have involved graded stress, anisotropic stresses or material properties, or mechanosensitive feedback. Here, we show that these mechanisms are not required to explain the anisotropy of constriction. Instead, constriction can be anisotropic if only two conditions are met: the tissue is elastic, as was demonstrated in our recent study; and the contractile domain is asymmetric. This conclusion is general and does not depend on the values of model parameters. Our model can explain results from classical tissue-grafting experiments and from more-recent laser ablation studies. Furthermore, our model may provide alternative explanations for experiments in other developmental systems, including C. elegans and zebrafish.
A centrosomal view of CNS growth
Authors: Saade Murielle , Blanco-Ameijeiras Jose , Gonzalez-Gobartt Elena , Martí Elisa
Published: November 2018

Embryonic development of the central nervous system (CNS) requires the proliferation of neural progenitor cells to be tightly regulated, allowing the formation of an organ with the right size and shape. This includes regulation of both the spatial distribution of mitosis and the mode of cell division. The centrosome, which is the main microtubule-organizing centre of animal cells, contributes to both of these processes. Here, we discuss the impact that centrosome-mediated control of cell division has on the shape of the overall growing CNS. We also review the intrinsic properties of the centrosome, both in terms of its molecular composition and its signalling capabilities, and discuss the fascinating notion that intrinsic centrosomal asymmetries in dividing neural progenitor cells are instructive for neurogenesis. Finally, we discuss the genetic links between centrosome dysfunction during development and the aetiology of microcephaly.
Attenuation of Spontaneous Baroreceptor Sensitivity after Concussion
Authors: LA FOUNTAINE MICHAEL F. , HOHN ASANTE N. , TESTA ANTHONY J. , WEIR JOSEPH P.
Published: November 2018

Introduction

Cardiovascular autonomic nervous system (CV-ANS) function is negatively impacted after concussion. The arterial baroreflex buffers pressor and depressor challenges through efferent modulation of cardiac chronotropism and inotropism, and peripheral vascular tone. Baroreceptor sensitivity (BRS) reflects the capacity of the CV-ANS to accommodate dynamic metabolic demands in the periphery. The impact of concussion on BRS has yet to be defined.

Methods

Cardiovascular autonomic nervous system assessment (e.g., electrocardiogram and beat-to-beat systolic blood pressure [SBP]) was performed the seated upright position at rest within 48 h (V1) of concussion and 1 wk later (V2) in 10 intercollegiate male athletes with concussion and 10 noninjured male athletes. Changes in HR, SBP, high- and low-frequency HR variabilities (HF-HRV and LF-HRV, respectively), LF-SBP variability and BRS for increasing (BRSn-Up) and decreasing (BRSn-Dn) SBP excursions, and overall BRS (BRSn-Avg) were assessed for differences at V1 and V2.

Results

The concussion (age, 20 ± 1 yr; height, 1.79 ± 0.14 m; weight, 83 ± 10 kg) and control (age, 20 ± 1 yr; height, 1.78 ± 0.10 m; weight, 79 ± 13 kg) groups were matched for demographics. Concussed athletes had a significantly reduced BRSn-Up, BRSn-Dn, and BRSn-Avg compared with controls at V1 or V2; these changes occurred without differences in conventional markers of CV-ANS function (e.g., HF-HRV, LF-HRV, LF-SBP), HR, or SBP at either visit.

Conclusions

Reduced BRS is a postconcussive consequence of CV-ANS dysfunction during the first postinjury week. Because SBP was similar between groups, it may be speculated that reduced BRS was not afferent in origin, but represents a postinjury consequence of the central nervous system after injury.
Effectiveness of a Parent-led Physical Activity Intervention in Youth with Obesity
Authors: RUBIN DANIELA A. , WILSON KATHLEEN S. , DUMONT-DRISCOLL MARILYN , ROSE DEBRA J.
Published: November 2018

Purpose

Prader–Willi syndrome (PWS) is a complex, rare neurobehavioral syndrome characterized by excessive fat, hypotonia, poor motor skills, and behavioral and cognitive disabilities. We tested the effectiveness of a home-based physical activity (PA) intervention led by parents in youth with obesity with and without PWS to increase moderate-to-vigorous PA (MVPA) and gross motor proficiency.

Methods

Participants were 111 youth age 8 to 16 yr (45 with PWS and 66 without PWS, but categorized as obese). A parallel design was used with the control group (C) receiving the intervention after serving as control. Intervention participants (I) completed a PA curriculum 4 d·wk−1 for 24 wk including warm-up exercises, strengthening exercises, and playground games 2 d·wk−1 and interactive console games 2 d·wk−1 guided by their parents. Pre–post outcomes (baseline to 24 wk) included MVPA (7-d accelerometry) and motor proficiency including upper limb coordination, bilateral coordination, balance, running speed and agility, and muscle strength (Bruininks–Oseretsky Test of Motor Proficiency).

Results

The intervention led to no change in MVPA (I group, 39.6 vs 38.9 min·d−1; C group, 40.6 vs 38.3 min·d−1). The intervention led to improvements in body coordination (22.3%; P < 0.05), as well as strength and agility (13.7%; P < 0.05). Specifically, the I group showed increases in upper limb coordination (19.1%), bilateral coordination (27.8%), and muscle strength (12.9%; P < 0.05 for all) not observed in the C group: −0.2%, 2.5%, and −3.2%, respectively.

Conclusions

This parent-guided PA intervention did not increase PA. However, the intervention led to improvements in gross motor skill competency. Providing families with tools and support can lead to implementation of PA routines that contribute to motor skill proficiency in youth with and without PWS.
Time Trial Performance Is Sensitive to Low-Volume Autologous Blood Transfusion
Authors: BEJDER JACOB , BREENFELDT ANDERSEN ANDREAS , SOLHEIM SARA AMALIE , GYBEL-BRASK MIKKEL , SECHER NIELS HENRY , JOHANSSON PÄR INGEMAR , NORDSBORG NIKOLAI BAASTRUP
Published: November 2018

Purpose

This study tested the hypothesis that autologous blood transfusion (ABT) of ~50% of the red blood cells (RBC) from a standard 450-mL phlebotomy would increase mean power in a cycling time trial. In addition, the study investigated whether further ABT of RBC obtained from another 450-mL phlebotomy would increase repeated cycling sprint ability.

Methods

In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover design (3-month wash-out), nine highly trained male subjects donated two 450-mL blood bags each (BT trial) or were sham phlebotomized (PLA trial). Four weeks later, a 650-kcal time trial (n= 7) was performed 3 d before and 2 h after receiving either ~50% (135 mL) of the RBC or a sham transfusion. On the following day, transfusion of RBC (235 mL) from the second donation or sham transfusion was completed. A 4 × 30-s all-out cycling sprint interspersed by 4 min of recovery was performed 6 d before and 3 d after the second ABT (n= 9).

Results

The mean power was increased in time trials from before to after transfusion (P< 0.05) in BT (213 ± 35 vs 223 ± 38 W; mean ± SD) but not in PLA (223 ± 42 vs 224 ± 46 W). In contrast, the mean power output across the four 30-s sprint bouts remained similar in BT (639 ± 35 vs 644 ± 26 W) and PLA (638 ± 43 vs 639 ± 25 W).

Conclusions

ABT of only ~135 mL of RBC is sufficient to increase mean power in a 650-kcal cycling time trial by ~5% in highly trained men. In contrast, a combined high-volume transfusion of ~135 and ~235 mL of RBC does not alter 4 × 30-s all-out cycling performance interspersed with 4 min of recovery.
Microbiota profiling with long amplicons using Nanopore sequencing: full-length 16S rRNA gene and whole rrn operon
Authors: Cuscó Anna , Catozzi Carlotta , Viñes Joaquim , Sanchez Armand , Francino Olga
Published: November 2018

Background: Profiling the microbiome of low-biomass samples is challenging for metagenomics since these samples often contain DNA from other sources, such as the host or the environment. The usual approach is sequencing specific hypervariable regions of the 16S rRNA gene, which fails to assign taxonomy to genus and species level. Here, we aim to assess long-amplicon PCR-based approaches for assigning taxonomy at the genus and species level. We use Nanopore sequencing with two different markers: full-length 16S rRNA (~1,500 bp) and the whole rrn operon (16S rRNA–ITS–23S rRNA; 4,500 bp).

Methods: We sequenced a clinical isolate of Staphylococcus pseudintermedius, two mock communities (HM-783D, Bei Resources; D6306, ZymoBIOMICS™) and two pools of low-biomass samples (dog skin from either the chin or dorsal back), using the MinION™ sequencer 1D PCR barcoding kit. Sequences were pre-processed, and data were analyzed using the WIMP workflow on EPI2ME or Minimap2 software with rrn database.

Results: The full-length 16S rRNA and the rrn operon were used to retrieve the microbiota composition at the genus and species level from the bacterial isolate, mock communities and complex skin samples. For the Staphylococcus pseudintermedius isolate, when using EPI2ME, the amplicons were assigned to the correct bacterial species in ~98% of the cases with the rrn operon marker, and in ~68% of the cases with the 16S rRNA gene. In both skin microbiota samples, we detected many species with an environmental origin. In chin, we found different Pseudomonas species in high abundance, whereas in dorsal skin there were more taxa with lower abundances.

Conclusions: Both full-length 16S rRNA and the rrn operon retrieved the microbiota composition of simple and complex microbial communities, even from the low-biomass samples such as dog skin. For an increased resolution at the species level, using the rrn operon would be the best choice.
FEATURES OF THE NURSE PROCESS IN THE MANAGEMENT OF PATIENTS WITH UTERINE MYOMA
Authors: Селиванова Эмине , Selivanova Emine , Пучкина Галина , Puchkina Galina , Куница Владислава , Kunitsa Vladislava , Салахутдинова Мадина , Salakhutdinova Madina
Published: November 2018

The nursing process is an important part of the whole treatment process. On the example of patients with uterine myoma, the role of the nursing staff was revealed. The study of case histories of 116 patients showed that most of them had a burdened obstetric and gynecological history, manifested by violations of sexual hygiene, untimely elimination of existing violations, fear of patients before a visit to the doctor. Nurses are more accessible to patients; in more relaxed and confidential communication, they can contribute to early diagnosis, timely treatment and the correct tactics for managing patients with myoma
Lasting powers of attorney
Authors: Griffith Richard
Published: November 2018

A key justification for introducing a law that regulates decision-making for those who are unable to make choices because of incapacity, was to allow people to prepare for future incapacity, by choosing people they trust to make those decisions on their behalf. In England and Wales, the Mental Capacity Act 2005 provides the opportunity for adults to do this through the use of a lasting power of attorney (Mental Capacity Act 2005, sections 9-14). In this article, Richard Griffith considers lasting powers of attorney for health and care and their impact on district nurse practice.
Exploring challenges at 6 months after stroke: what is important to patients for self-management?
Authors: Rutherford Sandy J , Hocking Clare , Theadom Alice , McPherson Kathryn M
Published: November 2018

Background/Aims:

Self-management models have recently been applied to stroke, but the most effective components are yet to be determined. To inform the ongoing refinement of stroke self-management programmes, this study explored challenges at 6 months after stroke.

Methods:

A total of 53 stroke survivors and 26 significant others were interviewed 6 months after stroke. Results were analysed qualitatively using thematic analysis.

Findings:

Stroke was experienced as a shocking and frightening event regardless of severity, and participants struggled to manage the consequences of their stroke. The stroke experience occurred within the context of more than one chronic condition and with competing demands of everyday life. Participants struggled to formulate a model of causation for their stroke, yet this appeared a necessary basis for action.

Conclusions:

The findings suggest that health care targeted at enhancing self-management, including self-management programmes, may benefit from encompassing a specific focus on participants' beliefs as an important foundation for recovery after stroke.
At year's end: making the most of the holiday season
Authors: Senior Amy
Published: November 2018

With November now upon us, the holiday season will follow soon after. As the year draws to a close, it can be easy to enter hibernation mode, but staying switched on and focused can pay dividends down the line. Amy Senior shares her top tips for enjoying and making the most of the holiday period
Ensuring healthy skin as part of wound prevention: an integrative review of health professionals' actions
Authors: Kennedy Kate J. , Price Kay , Rando Tabatha L. , Boylan Jo , Dyer Anthony R.
Published: November 2018

Objective:

To provide a synthesis of the best available, recent primary or secondary research evidence on early preventative activities taken to increase skin health, and reduce the incidence of facility-acquired skin tears and pressure ulcers (PUs) in community, residential and health-care institutions.

Method:

An integrative review focusing on a 10-year period, 2007-2017. A literature search of health databases was carried out, as well as a search of grey literature in relevant skin, wound care and nursing association journals. A second search was also conducted focused on literature from policy and guideline development organisations. Primary outcomes of interest were reduction in dry skin (xerosis), friable skin, or increases in healthy skin maintenance activities. Secondary outcomes of interest were reductions in PU or skin tear occurrences. Opinion, non-systematic literature reviews and discussion papers were excluded.

Results:

Of the 4932 references obtained from the searches, a total of 33 articles were included in the review: 27 peer-reviewed journal articles and six articles from the grey literature search. No guideline was found that focused on maintaining skin health as a person ages. Studies identified the main factors for maintaining skin health as nutrition, hydration and skin care regimen.

Conclusion:

Skin care regimens, including a focus on good nutrition and pH balance, should start immediately on arrival in institutions such as hospitals or residential aged care, and continue throughout the stay.
Evaluation of fluorescence biomodulation in the real-life management of chronic wounds: the EUREKA trial
Authors: Romanelli Marco , Piaggesi Alberto , Scapagnini Giovanni , Dini Valentina , Janowska Agata , Iacopi Elisabetta , Scarpa Carlotta , Fauverghe Stéphane , Bassetto Franco ,   EUREKA Study Group
Published: November 2018

Objective:

Fluorescence biomodulation (FB), a form of photobiomodulation (PBM) that is also known as low energy level light (LELL), has become an increasingly used clinical tool to induce wound healing in wounds that remain recalcitrant to treatment. In a real-life clinical setting, the aim of the EUREKA (EvalUation of Real-lifE use of Klox biophotonic system in chronic wound mAnagement) study was to confirm the efficacy and safety of LumiHeal, a system based on FB, in the treatment of chronic wounds such as venous leg ulcers (VLUs), diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) and pressure ulcers (PUs). The effects of this FB system on the modulation of wound healing in chronic ulcers through FB induction were previously examined in an interim analysis of this study.

Method:

A multicenter, prospective, observational, uncontrolled trial in 12 clinical sites in Italy. The wound was cleansed with saline and a 2mm thick layer of a chromophore gel was applied to the affected area in a biweekly regimen. The area was then illuminated with the LED activator for five minutes at a distance of 5cm. Treatment was used in combination with standard of care specific to each type of chronic wound (VLU, DFU, PU). Wound area evaluation was assessed using the Silhouette Imaging System and quality of life (QoL) with the Cardiff Wound Impact Schedule (CWIS). A seven-point evaluation of the clinicans' view was also examined.

Results:

We enrolled 100 subjects, with the final analysis including 99 patients/ulcers consisting of 52 VLUs, 32 DFUs and 15 PUs. Total wound closure at the end of the study was achieved in 47 patients by aetiology: 26 VLUs (50% of VLUs); 16 DFUs (50% of DFUs); and five PUs (33.3% of PUs). The mean wound area regression at last study assessment was significant for VLUs (41.0%; p<0.001) and DFUs (52.4%; p<0.001). After four weeks of treatment, it was possible to significantly predict if the ulcer would respond (defined as a decrease of wound size) to the study treatment. Adherence was high (95.2%) and no related serious adverse events were reported during the study. QoL significantly improved, with an increase of 15.4% of the total score, using the CWIS (p<0.001).

Conclusion:

The study confirmed a positive efficacy profile of the FB system in inducing the wound healing process in three different types of hard-to-heal chronic wounds. The treatment was shown to be safe and well tolerated by the patients, with a significant improvement in patient QoL. This approach offers an effective modality for the treatment of hard-to-heal chronic ulcers.
Pelvic binder placement in a regional trauma centre
Authors: Henning Sarah , Norris Rory , Hill Christopher E
Published: November 2018

Background:

Pelvic circumferential compression devices (PCCDs) are a life-saving prehospital adjunct to trauma care. Correct positioning at the level of the trochanters maximises their efficacy.

Methods:

To examine the positioning of PCCDs in a regional trauma centre in England, a retrospective analysis of patients who had experienced major trauma was carried out over a 6-month period. The primary outcome of PCCD position was assessed using computerised tomography imaging and recorded as ‘high’, ‘centred’ or ‘low’ (depending on trochanter level). Secondary outcomes, including patient demographics, mechanism, pattern, number and types of injury were also collected.

Results:

Eighty-nine patients were identified with a PCCD in situ, in whom 28 (31%) devices were positioned too high and eight (10%) too low. There was no correlation between mechanism, pattern, number or type of injury and PCCD position.

Conclusions:

Despite published evidence on PCCD position and training for personnel, many PCCDs are still poorly placed. Further education for professionals involved in PCCD application is recommended.