bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fifteen years looking at the mirror: On the presence of PISA in education policy processes (Portugal, 2000‐2016)
Authors: Carvalho Luís Miguel , Costa Estela , Gonçalves Catarina
Published: April 2017

This article describes and discusses what happens when knowledge for policy generated within PISA is received by its target audience: what have the Portuguese policy actors been doing with PISA data and analysis when they consider, express and justify their choices? Drawing on previous and current studies, using interview materials and formal and informal policy documents, as well as texts published in the written press, the article analyses two main phenomena related to the reception of PISA and how this has evolved between 2001 and 2012 in Portugal: the consolidation of PISA's credibility as a source for policy processes and texts; the emergence of new actors and modes of intervention in the production of knowledge for national policy, drawing on PISA. Finally, it presents an analysis of the reception of PISA 2015 in the Portuguese media, focusing on the interventions by political actors in the Portuguese daily and weekly written press. Two main elements emerge from our content analysis as the main common elements of that reception: the consecration of PISA's credibility; and the practices of qualification and disqualification of educational policies and perspectives. The article concludes by emphasising the regulatory role of PISA in Portuguese policy processes and the relevant contribution played by the politics of reception in legitimising this role.
The association between dementia and epilepsy: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Subota Ann , Pham Tram , Jetté Nathalie , Sauro Khara , Lorenzetti Diane , Holroyd‐Leduc Jayna
Published: April 2017

Objective

Dementia is among the top 15 conditions with the most substantial increase in burden of disease in the past decade, and along with epilepsy, among the top 25 causes of years lived with disability worldwide. The epidemiology of dementia in persons with epilepsy, and vice versa, is not well characterized. The purpose of this systematic review was to examine the prevalence, incidence, and reported risk factors for dementia in epilepsy and epilepsy in dementia.

Methods

Embase, PsycINFO, MEDLINE, and the Cochrane databases were searched from inception. Papers were included if they reported the incidence and/or prevalence of dementia and epilepsy. Two individuals independently performed duplicate abstract and full‐text review, data extraction, and quality assessment. Random‐effects models were used to generate pooled estimates when feasible.

Results

Of the 3,043 citations identified, 64 were reviewed in full text and 19 articles were included. The period prevalence of dementia ranged from 8.1 to 17.5 per 100 persons among persons with epilepsy (insufficient data to pool). The pooled period prevalence of epilepsy among persons with dementia was 5 per 100 persons (95% confidence interval [CI] 1–9) in population‐based settings and 4 per 100 persons (95% CI 1–6) in clinic settings. There were insufficient data to report a pooled overall incidence rate and only limited data on risk factors.

Significance

There are significant gaps in knowledge regarding the epidemiology of epilepsy in dementia and vice versa. Accurate estimates are needed to inform public health policy and prevention, and to understand health resource needs for these populations.
Preliminary investigations into a novel, long‐acting, injectable, intramuscular formulation of omeprazole in the horse
Authors: Sykes B. W. , Kathawala K. , Song Y. , Garg S. , Page S. W. , Underwood C. , Mills P. C.
Published: April 2017

Background

Pilot investigations have suggested that a novel, long‐acting, injectable i.m. formulation of omeprazole (LA‐OMEP) can induce acid suppression for up to 7 days following a single injection.

Objectives

To investigate the pharmacodynamics and assess the clinical efficacy of the LA‐OMEP formulation.

Study design

Part A comprised a pharmacodynamic study. Part B consisted of a pilot clinical trial.

Methods

Part A enrolled six adult Thoroughbred horses with percutaneous gastrotomy tubes. Intragastric pH was measured for continuous 23‐h periods (08.00–07.00 h) for eight consecutive days (days 0–7). A single 2.0‐g dose of a 100 mg/mL LA‐OMEP formulation was administered at 08.00 h on day 1. In Part B, 26 horses with squamous or glandular gastric disease were enrolled based on routine gastroscopic evaluation. Once enrolled, horses received 2.0 g of the 100 mg/mL LA‐OMEP formulation by i.m. injection on days 0 and 7. Repeat gastroscopy was performed on days 14 (23 horses) or 16 (one horse).

Results

In Part A, the percentage of time during which pH was above 4 exceeded 66% for days 1–4 in all horses and days 1–7 in four of the six horses studied. In Part B, healing was observed in all 22 (100%, 95% confidence interval [CI] 89–100%) horses with squamous disease and in nine of 12 (75%, 95% CI 47–92%) horses with glandular disease. Improvement, by at least one grade, was observed in all 22 (100%, 95% CI 89–100%) horses with squamous disease and in all 12 (100%, 95% CI 81–100%) horses with glandular disease. No worsening of lesions was observed. Lesion grade decreased over time in both the squamous (P<0.0001) and glandular (P = 0.0024) mucosa.

Main limitations

Small sample sizes.

Conclusions

The results of the present study compare favourably with previous reports on the pharmacodynamics of omeprazole and the clinical outcomes of trials reporting response to oral omeprazole therapy.
Characteristics of lactic acid bacteria isolates and their effects on the fermentation quality of acacia (Sophora japonica L.) leaf silage at low temperatures
Authors: Ali Gulfam , Liu Qinhua , Yuan Xianjung , Dong Zihao , Desta Seare T. , Li Jungfeng , Bai Xi , Shah Assar A. , Shao Tao
Published: April 2017

Insufficient lactic acid fermentation is an important issue of silage production at low ensiling temperatures. Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG6 (GG6) and Lactobacillus plantarum GG7 (GG7) isolated from Italian ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum Lam.) were characterized, and their effects and a reference lactic acid bacteria (LAB) inoculant (L. plantarum MTD–1, LP) on the fermentation quality of acacia (Sophora japonica L.) leaf silage ensiled at 5°C, 10°C and 15°C were studied. GG6 and GG7 were able to grow at 5°C and pH 3.5 and resisted 6.5% NaCl. After ensiling for 60 days, un‐inoculated silage was insufficient lactic acid fermentation at 5°C, 10°C and 15°C. None of the tested inoculants promoted lactic acid fermentation at the extremely low temperature of 5°C. GG6, GG7 and LP promoted lactic acid fermentation of silage at 10°C and 15°C, indicated by lower pH and ethanol content, higher lactic acid content compared to the un‐inoculated silage (P < 0.05). GG6 and GG7 outperformed LP, indicated by the lower pH and higher lactic acid content at 10°C and 15°C (P < 0.05).
Influence of acid‐treated talc and Na2CO3 flux on mineralogical phase composition and porosity in steatite ceramics
Authors: Kupková Jana , Valášková Marta , Študentová Soňa
Published: April 2017

The work aimed with the effect of preceramic mixtures containing natural talc (Tc) or acid‐treated talc (Tc‐ac) supplemented by montmorillonite (Mt) or kaolinite (Ka), and the flux Na2CO3 on the mineral phase composition, porosity and pore size distribution in the steatite ceramics prepared using solid state sintering at 1300°C. The samples were analyzed using X‐ray diffraction and porometry techniques and scanning electron microscopy. Application of Mt or Ka in preceramic mixtures with provided comparable results. The acidification of talc using hydrochloric acid resulted in partial release of Mg2+ from the structure. The ratio of SiO2:MgO in Tc was 35:65 (wt%) and 70:30 (wt%) in Tc‐ac. Tc, clay minerals, and flux Na2CO3 in the MgO–Al2O3–SiO2–Na2O glass system resulted to the separation of forsterite and protoenstatite, while Tc‐ac provided crystallization of protoenstatite at the expense of clinoenstatite in highly porous ceramics. The preceramic mixtures were precursors of bimodal pore size distribution at prepared steatite ceramics.
The impact of corporate social responsibility assurance on investor decisions: Chinese evidence
Authors: Shen Hongtao , Wu Huiying , Chand Parmod
Published: April 2017

In this experimental study, we examine whether corporate social responsibility (CSR) reports affect the investment decisions of non‐professional investors in China depending on whether they are assured, the nature of CSR disclosures (positive versus negative disclosures), and the type of assurance provider (professional accountants versus industry experts). The results indicate that CSR assurance increases investor willingness to invest and that the credibility of CSR information partially mediates the relationship between assurance and investment decisions. We also note that the effect of CSR assurance on investment decisions is greater when CSR disclosures are positive than when they are negative. However, the type of assurance provider does not significantly influence the effect of CSR assurance on investor decision making. China's institutional setting features novice investors, government‐affiliated industry expert assurers, and government‐driven CSR assurance. As a pioneering study on the effects of CSR assurance in China, our work is a valuable supplement to previous studies, which have largely focused on developed economies with considerably different institutional settings.
Germline transformation of the western corn rootworm, Diabrotica virgifera virgifera
Authors: Chu F. , Klobasa W. , Wu P. , Pinzi S. , Grubbs N. , Gorski S. , Cardoza Y. , Lorenzen M. D.
Published: April 2017

The western corn rootworm (WCR), a major pest of maize, is notorious for rapidly adapting biochemically, behaviourally and developmentally to a variety of control methods. Despite much effort, the genetic basis of WCR adaptation remains a mystery. Since transformation‐based applications such as transposon tagging and enhancer trapping have facilitated genetic dissection of model species such as Drosophila melanogaster, we developed a germline‐transformation system for WCR in an effort to gain a greater understanding of the basic biology of this economically important insect. Here we report the use of a fluorescent‐marked Minos element to create transgenic WCR. We demonstrate that the transgenic strains express both an eye‐specific fluorescent marker and piggyBac transposase. We identified insertion‐site junction sequences via inverse PCR and assessed insertion copy number using digital droplet PCR (ddPCR). Interestingly, most WCR identified as transgenic via visual screening for DsRed fluorescence proved to carry multiple Minos insertions when tested via ddPCR. A total of eight unique insertion strains were created by outcrossing the initial transgenic strains to nontransgenic WCR mates. Establishing transgenic technologies for this beetle is the first step towards bringing a wide range of transformation‐based tools to bear on understanding WCR biology.
Explaining Anomalies in Australia with a Five‐factor Asset Pricing Model
Authors: Huynh Thanh D.
Published: April 2017

This paper compares the ability of three‐factor and five‐factor asset pricing models to explain the apparent profitability of a broad selection of anomalies in Australian equity returns. Rather than examining the fit of each model to common test portfolios, our focus is on the spread return to long–short trading strategies designed around so‐called anomalies. After documenting significant spread returns to 16 anomalies (including several not previously studied in Australia), the empirical analysis provides cautious support that the recently‐proposed investment and profitability factors have a role to play. The number of anomalies that remains after risk adjustment decreases under the five‐factor model. Further, while the magnitude of reduction in alpha is modest, our testing shows that it is statistically significant in many cases. However, both three‐factor and five‐factor models repeatedly fail the Gibbons, Ross, and Shanken's (1989) (GRS) test, suggesting that the quest for a better asset pricing model is not yet complete.
Das System der Pilze aus neuerer Sicht
Authors: Agerer R.
Published: April 2017

Die Pilze sind ein heterogenes Sammelsurium aus drei Organismenreichen: Die Echten Pilze, Fungi, repräsentieren ein eigenes Organismenreich und stehen den Animalia näher als den Plantae. Die Fungi werden derzeit in fünf Stämme aufgeteilt: Humanpathogene Arten kommen in den Stämmen Zygomycota, Ascomycota und Basidiomycota vor. Die Pneumocystidales werden heute den Ascomycota zugeordnet. Die Malasseziales gehören zu den Brandpilzartigen der Basidiomycota. Wesentliche Merkmale zur Einteilung der Fungi entstammen der Ultrastruktur, der Chemie und neuerdings auch der Molekularbiologie. Keine der genannten Methoden kann für sich allein stehen, alle Merkmalsbereiche müssen Verwendung finden.
Chronisch mukokutane Candidose mit hochgradiger Ösophagusstenose
Authors: Lingelbach A. , Seidl H. P. , Frimberger E. , Traidl‐Hoffmann C. , Ring J. , Hofmann Heidelore
Published: April 2017

Bei der 23jährigen Patientin bestanden seit 7 Jahren eine zunehmende Dysphagie sowie Candida‐Granulome der rechten Kopfhälfte, Nase und beider Hände. Therapien mit verschiedenen oralen Antimykotika waren ohne Erfolg. Unter hochdosiert intravenöser und oraler Fluconazoltherapie heilten die Hautveränderungen ab. Als Ursache der Dysphagie wurde eine Ösophagusstenose infolge einer chronischen Candida‐Ösophagitis diagnostiziert und erfolgreich behandelt mit Fluconazol und Dilatation.
Microsporum‐canis‐bedingte Tinea capitis et corporis bei einer immunsupprimierten erwachsenen Patientin
Authors: Möhrenschlager M. , Seidl H. P. , Holtmann Christiane , Ring J. , Abeck D.
Published: April 2017

Tinea capitis‐ und Tinea corporis‐Erkrankungen Erwachsener sind insbesondere unter Bedingungen der Immunsuppression möglich. Eine umgehende native und kulturelle Untersuchung auf Pilzorganismen ist bei entsprechendem klinischen Verdacht zu veranlassen. Eine adäquate Behandlung sollte ohne Verzögerung begonnen werden. Bei nachgewiesener Tinea capitis muss eine systemische Therapie eingeleitet werden. Hierdurch können Verläufe mit entstellendem Haarverlust, bleibender Vernarbung der Kopfhaut, Dissemination der Erreger auf andere Hautareale sowie Infektion Dritter verhindert werden.
Zur Veränderung des Dermatophytenspektrums bei dermatologisch relevanten Erkrankungen
Authors: Seebacher C.
Published: April 2017

Innerhalb der letzten 70 Jahre hat sich die Zusammensetzung des Artenspektrums aus Hautläsionen isolierter Dermatophyten erheblich verändert. Vor dem 2. Weltkrieg dominierten in Deutschland Microsporum audouinii und Epidermophyton floccosum, seit den 50er Jahren übernahm Trichophyton rubrum die Spitzenposition und erreicht heute 80–90 % aller Dermatophytenisolate. Diese Entwicklung ist für Mittel‐ und Nordeuropa typisch und steht mit der erheblichen Zunahme der Tinea pedis in ursächlichem Zusammenhang. In Südeuropa und in arabischen Ländern stehen zoophile Dermatophyten (M. canis und T. verrucosum) an erster Stelle. Auf die Infektionswege für die Verbreitung der Tinea pedis wird anhand experimenteller Daten hingewiesen. Die Vermutung einer genetisch fixierten Disposition für T.‐rubrum‐Infektionen steht im Widerspruch zu den hier aufgezeigten epidemiologischen Zusammenhängen.
Fabrication of columnar structured lanthanum zirconate films by laser CVD
Authors: Yang Guang , Mao Xiaoxiao , Wang Duojin , Chen Hongfei , Liu Bin , Cui Yuanyuan , Luo Hongjie , Gao Yanfeng
Published: April 2017

Columnar lanthanum zirconate (LZ) films were deposited by laser chemical vapor deposition (LCVD). The effects of deposition conditions, preheat temperature and laser power, on crystal structure, morphology, and deposition rate were investigated. A large region in the terms of preheat temperature and laser power for the formation of cubic pyrochlore‐structured LZ films was mapped under a fixed total pressure of 950 Pa. The morphology of LZ films without laser irradiation showed a dense and glass‐like structure with a flat cauliflower surface. It was changed into a columnar structure with an unflat cauliflower surface by low‐power laser irradiation during deposition process. The transformation occurred once a critical laser power beyond 16 W/cm2. Thus, the effect of laser on the deposition of LZ films was a result of double‐side action including both pyrolytic effect and photolytic effect. Plasma gas around the substrate resulted in significant increases in deposition temperature and deposition rate due to self‐propagating high‐temperature reactions between the precursors and O2. The maximum deposition rate can reach 250 μm/h by LCVD.
Formation of BaFe12−xNbxO19 and its high electromagnetic wave absorption properties in millimeter wave frequency range
Authors: Liu Chuyang , Chen Yujie , Yue Yangyu , Tang Yu , Wang Zongrong , Ma Ning , Du Piyi
Published: April 2017

BaFe12−xNbxO19 (BFNO, x=0‐0.6) powders with Nb5+ substituting for Fe3+ were prepared by sol‐gel method. The formation process and electromagnetic (EM) wave absorption properties of the BFNO are investigated in detail. With Nb5+ content increasing from x=0 to x=0.6, the formation temperature of barium ferrite phase without heat time increases from ~700°C to ~900°C, while the appearance temperature of typical plate grains decreases from ~1300°C to ~1100°C, and the crystallization ability decreases at 600°C‐900°C, while the grain size increases gradually at 1100°C‐1300°C. Increasing sintering temperature and time promote the formation of barium ferrite phase and grain growth in all the samples. The ε′ and ε″ of the sample with x=0.6 sintered at 1300°C for 3 hours reach highest of ~7.9 and ~0.95 over 26.5‐40 GHz. Multiresonance peaks in permeability decrease from 40+ GHz to ~30 GHz with x rising from 0 to 0.6. Ultimately, small RLmin of ~−42 dB, thin dm of ~0.76 mm, and broad bandwidth of >12 GHz can be exhibited simultaneously around millimeter wave atmospheric window of 35 GHz.
A new approach for determining the critical cooling rates of nucleation in glass‐forming liquids
Authors: Liu Shujiang , Tao Haizheng , Zhang Yafei , Yue Yuanzheng
Published: April 2017

Crystallization of a liquid below liquidus temperature is a complex process due to simultaneous nucleation and growth of crystals. Nucleation is the crucial initial step of the crystallization process, and affects the glass‐forming ability, especially when there is a large overlap between nucleation and crystal growth versus temperature curves. From the temperature‐time‐transformation (TTT) diagram, one can estimate the critical cooling rate, , of glass‐formation, however this is time‐consuming. In this paper, we establish a simple approach to determine the using calorimetric and viscometric data. Based on the classical nucleation theory, the correlation between the crystallization onset temperature and cooling rate is described by combining two temperature‐dependent functions. The new approach is applicable to a wide range of glass‐forming systems. This work also gives insight into heterogeneous nucleation and glass formation kinetics.
Influence of euthanasia method on blood and gill variables in normoxic and hypoxicGulf killifishFundulus grandis
Authors: Larter K. F. , Rees B. B.
Published: April 2017

In many experiments, euthanasia, or humane killing, of animals is necessary. Some methods of euthanasia cause death through cessation of respiratory or cardiovascular systems, causing oxygen levels of blood and tissues to drop. For experiments where the goal is to measure the effects of environmental low oxygen (hypoxia), the choice of euthanasia technique, therefore, may confound the results. This study examined the effects of four euthanasia methods commonly used in fish biology (overdose ofMS‐222, overdose of clove oil, rapid cooling and blunt trauma to the head) on variables known to be altered during hypoxia (haematocrit, plasma cortisol, blood lactate and blood glucose) or reflecting gill damage (trypan blue exclusion) and energetic status (ATP,ADPandATP:ADP) in Gulf killifishFundulus grandisafter 24 h exposure to well‐aerated conditions (normoxia, 7·93 mg O2 l−1,c.150 mm Hg orc.20 kPa) or reduced oxygen levels (0·86 mg O2 l−1,c.17 mm Hg orc.2·2kPa). Regardless of oxygen treatment, fish euthanized by an overdose ofMS‐222 had higher haematocrit and lower gillATP:ADPthan fish euthanized by other methods. The effects of 24 h hypoxic exposure on these and other variables, however, were equivalent among methods of euthanasia (i.e. there were no significant interactions between euthanasia method and oxygen treatment). The choice of an appropriate euthanasia method, therefore, will depend upon the magnitude of the treatment effects (e.g. hypoxia) relative to potential artefacts caused by euthanasia on the variables of interest.
Supporting clinical leadership through action: The nurse consultant role
Authors: Rosser Elizabeth , Grey Rachael , Neal Deborah , Reeve Julie , Smith Caroline , Valentine Janine
Published: April 2017

Aims and objectives

To evaluate the effectiveness of an action learning set to enhance clinical leadership and extend their scope and confidence more strategically.

Background

As the most senior clinical role in most healthcare systems, the consultant nurse role is a solitary one. They are required to develop personal resilience, commitment and a belief in their ability to lead, with new consultants needing a strong support network to succeed.

Design

Following a 2‐year action learning set, four nurse consultants, one therapy consultant, and a university educationalist engaged in a cooperative inquiry approach using four cycles of discussion, reflection, analysis and action over an 18‐month period from March 2015–July 2016, to learn how to change and enhance their working practices. Data were analysed thematically.

Results

Four themes emerged where the action learning set (i) offered structure and support, (ii) enabled a wider influence and (iii) empowered them to lead. The cooperative inquiry helped them realise how much they had gained from their collective learning and they felt empowered to lead.

Conclusion

Their motivation to “make a difference” remains palpable. The outcomes of the cooperative inquiry included an enhanced understanding of the importance of openness and trust and a willingness to share and learn from each other in a respectful and confidential environment with a receptiveness to change. Self‐leadership has clearly been accepted and embraced, and their collaboration has improved communication across the organisation, enhanced their strategic leadership capability and given confidence to disseminate externally.

Relevance to clinical practice

The action learning set offered structure to support these clinical leaders to keep them focused across the breadth of their role. Additionally, peer review with external facilitation has enabled these clinical leaders to gain a wider influence and empowered them to lead.
Social disadvantage and developmental diagnosis in pre‐schoolers
Authors: Kayrouz Norma , Milne Susan L , McDonald Jenny L
Published: April 2017

Aim

To explore the association between social disadvantage and developmental diagnoses in pre‐school children.

Methods

Between 2012 and 2015, 845 pre‐school children were assessed by the Child Assessment Team at Campbelltown Hospital. A social worker interviewed 469 families and these children were eligible for inclusion in the study. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) was confirmed in 290 children. Of those without ASD, 72 did not have global developmental delay (GDD) and were excluded from the study. The remaining 107 children with GDD were used as the comparison group. Social risk factors in the two groups were compared using χ

2
tests. Variables with statistical significance were then entered into a logistic regression.

Results

After logistic regression, children with ASD were more likely to be male (odds ratio (OR) 3.1, 95% CI 0.195–0.529; P < 0.001) and their parents were more likely to have a clinically significant stress score (OR 1.3, 95% CI 0.334–0.992; P = 0.047). Children with GDD were more likely to live in a disadvantaged suburb (OR 1.7, 95% CI 1.042–2.940; P = 0.034), more likely to have a sole parent (OR 1.8, 95% CI 1.062–3.082; P = 0.029) and much more likely to have had involvement with child protection services (OR 3.9, 95% CI 2.044–7.416; P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Children with GDD without autism were more likely to be disadvantaged and to have had contact with child protection services than children with ASD. This has implications for the assessment, early intervention and support services for children with disabilities and their families.
Use of nicotine replacement therapy in young people entering custody in New South Wales, Australia
Authors: Haysom Leigh , Lawrence Dianne , Mellish Donna , Burns Peter , Khale Pariza , Arulampalam Ariana , Stapylton Catherine
Published: April 2017

Aim

To describe the prevalence of nicotine dependence and acceptance of nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) in young people entering custody, where smoking is not allowed.

Methods

Cross‐sectional study in 2013. Setting: All New South Wales Juvenile Justice Centres. Participants: Incarcerated youth, aged 12–21 years. Main exposures: gender, age, ethnicity, cannabis use. Main outcomes: rates of smoking, cannabis use, nicotine dependence, NRT acceptance.

Results

Data were collected from 252 Initial Reception Assessments (90.1% male, 56.3% Aboriginal, mean age 16.6 years ± 1.2 standard deviation). According to Fagerstrom screening, 207 (82.1%) young people smoked cigarettes immediately prior to their current incarceration, and of the smokers, 78 (38.4%) were nicotine dependent. Most young people (76.4%) were also daily cannabis users, with 85.6% of cigarette smokers also using cannabis daily. NRT (as 24‐h nicotine patches prescribed for 2 weeks) was offered to 54 nicotine dependent and 7 non‐dependent young people. Only 13 (21.3%) young people accepted NRT (all daily cannabis‐using males), and only 2 young people completed the full prescription. Reasons for refusing or not completing NRT were a fear of ‘weird dreams’, sleeping issues or that it was no longer needed.

Conclusions

Many young people entering custody are nicotine‐dependent cigarette smokers and daily cannabis users, and are at high risk of nicotine withdrawal on abstinence. NRT as patch therapy has poor acceptance in this group, except in young men who are daily cannabis users. Screening for nicotine dependence in high‐risk young people should include questions about cannabis use, and alternatives to patch therapy deserve further research.
Porphyromonas gingivalis antibody levels and diagnosis of coronary artery disease in HIV‐positive individuals
Authors: Berquist V. L. , Hearps A. C. , Ford P. , Jaworowski A. , Leishman S. J. , Hoy J. F. , Trevillyan J. M.
Published: April 2017

Background and Objective

Periodontal disease has been associated with cardiovascular disease in the general population. It is unknown whether IgG antibody levels for periodontal pathogens are associated with the diagnosis of coronary artery disease (CAD) in HIV‐positive individuals.

Material and Methods

Twenty‐four HIV‐positive individuals (cases) with stored plasma available in the 12 months before CAD diagnosis were age‐ and sex‐matched 1:2 with 46 HIV‐positive individuals without CAD (controls). Antibody levels to whole cell extracts from periodontal pathogens Porphyromonas gingivalis, Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans and Fusobacterium nucleatum, as well as markers of inflammation sCD14, CXCL10 and high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein, were compared between cases and controls using enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assays.

Results

P. gingivalis‐specific IgG levels (μg/mL) were significantly higher in individuals with CAD (median 1.48 [IQR 1.06‐2.05]) compared to controls (0.70 [IQR 0.35‐1.24], P<.001), and remained significantly higher following adjustment for traditional cardiovascular risk factors and HIV viral load (OR 21.6 [95% CI 3.73‐125.63] P=.001). There was a borderline association between A. actinomycetemcomitans IgG antibody levels (cases, median 3.86 [IQR 3.19‐4.72]; controls, 3.34 [IQR 2.59‐4.07], P=.050) and no association found between F. nucleatum antibody levels and CAD. sCD14 levels (μg/mL) were higher in cases compared with controls (median 3.45 [IQR 3.03‐4.11] vs 2.65 [IQR 2.32‐2.99] P<.001), while CXCL10 (median 127 pg/mL [IQR 88‐157] vs 153 [IQR 90‐244] P=.321) and high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein (median 3.44 mg/L [1.98‐5.32] vs 1.85 [1.13‐6.88] P=.203) levels were not different between cases and controls.

Conclusion

Periodontal bacteria may be contributing to CAD risk in HIV‐positive individuals.
Type 1 aqueous alteration in CM carbonaceous chondrites: Implications for the evolution of water‐rich asteroids
Authors: King A. J. , Schofield P. F. , Russell S. S.
Published: April 2017

The CM carbonaceous chondrite meteorites experienced aqueous alteration in the early solar system. They range from mildly altered type 2 to almost completely hydrated type 1 chondrites, and offer a record of geochemical conditions on water‐rich asteroids. We show that CM1 chondrites contain abundant (84–91 vol%) phyllosilicate, plus olivine (4–8 vol%), magnetite (2–3 vol%), Fe‐sulfide (<5 vol%), and calcite (<2 vol%). The CM1/2 chondrites contain phyllosilicate (71–88 vol%), olivine (4–20 vol%), enstatite (2–6 vol%), magnetite (2–3 vol%), Fe‐sulfides (1–2 vol%), and calcite (~1 vol%). As aqueous alteration progressed, the abundance of Mg‐serpentine and magnetite in the CM chondrites increased. In contrast, calcite abundances in the CM1/2 and CM1 chondrites are often depleted relative to the CM2s. The modal data support the model, whereby metal and Fe‐rich matrix were the first components to be altered on the CM parent body(ies), before further hydration attacked the coarser Mg‐rich silicates found in chondrules and fragments. Based on the absence of tochilinite, we suggest that CM1 chondrites experienced increased alteration due to elevated temperatures (>120 °C), although higher water/rock ratios may also have played a role. The modal data provide constraints for interpreting the composition of asteroids and the mineralogy of samples returned from these bodies. We predict that “CM1‐like” asteroids, as has been proposed for Bennu—target for the OSIRIS‐REx mission—will have a high abundance of Mg‐rich phyllosilicates and Fe‐oxides, but be depleted in calcite.
The Role of Emotion in Informal Science Learning: Testing an Exploratory Model
Authors: Staus Nancy L. , Falk John H.
Published: April 2017

Although there is substantial research on the effect of emotions on educational outcomes in the classroom, relatively little is known about how emotion affects learning in informal science contexts. We examined the role of emotion in the context of an informal science learning experience by utilizing a path model to investigate the relationships among emotional arousal, valence, attention, environmental values and learning outcomes. Sixty undergraduate and graduate students participated in one of two treatments consisting of watching an exciting or neutral nature documentary video, reading an associated narrative, and taking a post‐test. Our findings suggested that higher emotional arousal, less pleasant feelings about the content, and stronger environmental values led to greater short‐term learning outcomes. We discuss our findings in relation to current understandings of emotion and learning in informal science education settings.
C3–C4 intermediates may be of hybrid origin – a reminder
Authors: Kadereit Gudrun , Bohley Katharina , Lauterbach Maximilian , Tefarikis Delphine T. , Kadereit Joachim W.
Published: April 2017

The currently favoured model of the evolution of C4 photosynthesis relies heavily on the interpretation of the broad phenotypic range of naturally growing C3–C4 intermediates as proxies for evolutionary intermediate steps. On the other hand, C3–C4 intermediates had earlier been interpreted as hybrids or hybrid derivates. By first comparing experimentally generated with naturally growing C3–C4 intermediates, and second summarising either direct or circumstantial evidence for hybridisation in lineages comprising C3, C4 and C3–C4 intermediates, we conclude that a possible hybrid origin of C3–C4 intermediates deserves careful examination. While we acknowledge that the current model of C4 photosynthesis evolution is clearly the best available, C3–C4 intermediates of hybrid origin, if existing, should not be used for further analysis of this model. However, experimental C3 × C4 hybrids potentially are excellent systems to analyse the genetic differences between C3 and C4 species and, also using segregating progeny, to study the relationship between individual photosynthetic traits and environmental factors.
Nursing curriculums may hinder a career in gerontological nursing: An integrative review
Authors: Garbrah William , Välimäki Tarja , Palovaara Marjo , Kankkunen Päivi
Published: April 2017

Objective

To investigate what prevents undergraduate nursing students from choosing gerontological nursing as a career option.

Design

This study utilised an integrative literature review, which allows the inclusion of previous studies with diverse research designs to gain a broader view of the reasons why nursing students do not choose a gerontological nursing career.

Methods

An electronic database search of CINAHL (Ebsco), Scopus and Eric elicited 251 scientific peer‐reviewed empirical studies, published from 2006 to March 2016 in English. After meeting the inclusion criteria, 97 qualified for closer examination. Following exclusion, the final analysis and synthesis included 21 articles.

Results

Four main themes described nursing students’ contributing reasons for not selecting gerontological nursing as a career option: socio‐demographic factors; experiences, perceptions and knowledge about ageing; perceptions concerning the nature or status of gerontological nursing; and theoretical studies and practical education of nursing curriculum.

Conclusions

Lack of positive experiences with older people before and during nursing students’ studies led to their disinterest in gerontological nursing as a career option. The nursing curriculum also reinforces the perception of modern nursing as technical, with more emphasis on acute and critical care. The findings emphasise the need to implement an age‐friendly curriculum and have nurses that specialise in gerontology to serve as mentors and role models. It is important to assist nursing students in identifying the potentials for career advancement in terms of gerontological nursing. There is also a need for nursing faculties to liaise with other stakeholders to develop or improve upon the clinical atmosphere for nursing students during gerontological nursing placement.

Implications for practice

Nursing faculties must review their curriculum to ensure that there is sufficient focus on the needs of older people within the curriculum for every student. Furthermore, respected role models who are knowledgeable and enthusiastic about issues related to older people must teach gerontological nursing courses.
Better BAT to Bolster Ecosystem Resilience: Operationalizing Ecological Governance through the Concept of Best Available Techniques
Authors: Giljam Renske A.
Published: April 2017

This article examines to what extent ecological governance can be implemented by extending the concept of best available techniques (BAT) at the European Union level. It therefore first analyses what ecological governance would require and what this implies for employing the use of BAT. The article then argues that the use of BAT enables ecological governance to an extent, but that the BAT concept needs to be modified internally to serve this purpose. Additionally, it needs to be extended to areas outside its original scope to maintain the holistic perspective of ecological governance. Here, biomass used for energy production serves as an illustration of such ‘external’ BAT application.
Contribution of Contraceptive Discontinuation to Unintended Births in 36 Developing Countries
Authors: Jain Anrudh K. , Winfrey William
Published: April 2017

High contraceptive discontinuation results in millions of women having an unmet need for contraception. However, its contribution to unintended fertility is not known. Reproductive calendar data in Demographic and Health Surveys in 36 countries are used to estimate the percent of unintended recent births attributable to contraceptive discontinuation. Contraceptive discontinuation accounted for about one‐third of unintended recent births in all countries together. Method failure and contraception discontinued for other reasons accounted for most of this contribution. The contribution of contraceptive discontinuation to unintended births increases with the use of modern methods but decreases as method composition at a given level of contraceptive prevalence shifts toward methods with higher effectiveness and longer continuation. High contraceptive discontinuation in the past without changes in fertility intentions has resulted in millions of unintended births. This contribution is likely to increase with the anticipated increase in the use of modern methods. Enabling current users to reduce method failure and encouraging them to switch to another method after discontinuing the use of the original method will be an effective strategy to reduce contraceptive discontinuation and its contribution to unintended births.
Proposed expansion margins for planning organ at risk volume for lenses during radiation therapy of the nasal cavity in dogs and cats
Authors: Jafry Zaki , Gal Arnon , Fleck Andre , Darko Johnson , Poirier Valerie J.
Published: April 2017

Radiation therapy protocols for the feline or canine nasal cavity can damage epithelial cells of the posterior pole of the lens and lead to the development of cataracts. Aims of this retrospective, descriptive study were to calculate movements of the lens during radiation therapy of the nasal cavity in a sample of cats and dogs, and to propose species‐specific expansion margins for planning organ at risk volume (PRV) to minimize radiation doses to the lens. All included patients were immobilized with an indexed bite block and positioned in a vacuum positioning cushion for head irradiation. On‐board cone beam CT (CBCT) imaging was used for patient alignment. Both ocular lenses were contoured on the therapeutic CBCTs. Coregistration (fusion) between the planning CT and CBCTs was used to measure the movements of the lens. Two measurements were made: the differences between the centroid point of each lens as well as the displacement of the coregistrations. A total of 496 different observations were recorded from 14 cats and 52 dogs. Using the displacement results, we calculated how often the lens would be within the lens‐PRV contour. We proposed that an optimal expansion margin from the lens volume of 2 mm in cats and 3 mm in dogs may be necessary in generating PRV expansion for the lens. From our results, we expect the lens would therefore be within these proposed PRV expansions in 92% of the feline measurements and 95% of the canine measurements.
Generation of chimeric minipigs by aggregating 4‐ to 8‐cell‐stage blastomeres from somatic cell nuclear transfer with the tracing of enhanced green fluorescent protein
Authors: Ji Huili , Long Chuan , Feng Chong , Shi Ningning , Jiang Yingdi , Zeng Guomin , Li Xirui , Wu Jingjing , Lu Lin , Lu Shengsheng , Pan Dengke
Published: April 2017

Background

Blastocyst complementation is an important technique for generating chimeric organs in organ‐deficient pigs, which holds great promise for solving the problem of a shortage of organs for human transplantation procedures. Porcine chimeras have been generated using embryonic germ cells, embryonic stem cells, and induced pluripotent stem cells; however, there are no authentic pluripotent stem cells for pigs. In previous studies, blastomeres from 4‐ to 8‐cell‐stage parthenogenetic embryos were able to generate chimeric fetuses efficiently, but the resulting fetuses did not produce live‐born young. Here, we used early‐stage embryos from somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT) to generate chimeric piglets by the aggregation method. Then, the distribution of chimerism in various tissues and organs was observed through the expression of enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP).

Methods

Initially, we determined whether 4‐ to 8‐ or 8‐ to 16‐cell‐stage embryos were more suitable to generate chimeric piglets. Chimeras were produced by aggregating two EGFP‐tagged Wuzhishan minipig (WZSP) SCNT embryos and two Bama minipig (BMP) SCNT embryos. The chimeric piglets were identified by coat color and microsatellite and swine leukocyte antigen analyses. Moreover, the distribution of chimerism in various tissues and organs of the piglets was evaluated by EGFP expression.

Results

We found that more aggregated embryos were produced using 4‐ to 8‐cell‐stage embryos (157/657, 23.9%) than 8‐ to 16‐cell‐stage embryos (100/499, 20.0%). Thus, 4‐ to 8‐cell‐stage embryos were used for the generation of chimeras. The rate of blastocysts development after aggregating WZSP with BMP embryos was 50.6%. Transfer of 391 blastocysts developed from 4‐ to 8‐cell‐stage embryos to five recipients gave rise to 18 piglets, of which two (11.1%) were confirmed to be chimeric by their coat color and microsatellite examination of the skin. One of the chimeric piglets died at 35 days and was subsequently autopsied, whereas the other piglet was maintained for the following observations. The heart and kidneys of the dead piglet showed chimerism, whereas the spinal cord, stomach, pancreas, intestines, muscle, ovary, and brain had no chimerism.

Conclusions

To our knowledge, this is the first report of porcine chimeras generated by aggregating 4‐ to 8‐cell‐stage blastomeres from SCNT. We detected chimerism only in the skin, heart, and kidneys. Collectively, these results indicate that aggregation using 4‐ to 8‐cell‐stage SCNT embryos offers a practical approach for producing chimeric minipigs. Furthermore, it also provides a potential platform for generating interspecific chimeras between pigs and non‐human primates for xenotransplantation.
Effectiveness of Silexan oral lavender essential oil compared to inhaled lavender essential oil aromatherapy on sleep in adults: a systematic review protocol
Authors: Greenberg Martha J. , Slyer Jason T.
Published: April 2017

Review objective:

The objective of this review is to identify the effectiveness of Silexan oral lavender essential oil compared to inhaled lavender essential oil aromatherapy on sleep latency, sleep duration, sleep quality, disturbed sleep and anxiety in adult patients.
Effectiveness of amylmetacresol and 2,4-dichlorobenzyl alcohol throat lozenges in patients with acute sore throat due to upper respiratory tract infection: a systematic review protocol
Authors: Tan Ting W. , Chen Bi C. , Tan Han L. , Chang Chih M.
Published: April 2017

Review question/objective:

This review aims to determine the best available evidence related to the effectiveness of amylmetacresol and 2,4-dichlorobenzyl alcohol throat lozenges in patients with acute sore throat due to upper respiratory tract infection (URTI). The objective is to examine the analgesic properties of amylmetacresol and 2,4-dichlorobenzyl alcohol (AMC/DCBA) throat lozenge comparing with placebo for the relief of pain in patients with acute sore throat due to URTIs.

The review question is:

Are amylmetacresol (AMC 0.6 mg) and 2,4-dichlorobenzyl (DCBA 1.2-mg) alcohol throat lozenges effective in relieving acute sore throat caused by URTIs?

More specifically, the objectives are to:

Evaluate changes in severity of throat soreness

Evaluate the pain relief ratings

Measure functional difficulty in swallowing

Measure functional throat numbness.
Registered nurses’ experiences of organizational change in acute care settings: a systematic review protocol
Authors: Jantzen Darlaine , Nowell Lorelli , Scott Patricia
Published: April 2017

Review objective:

The objective of this review is to explore how registered nurses working in acute care settings experience organizational change.
Effect of International Normalized Ratio monitoring at home versus the clinic on monitoring adherence in adults taking oral anticoagulant medications: a systematic review protocol
Authors: Price Lynndi M. , Hinton Elizabeth
Published: April 2017

Review question/objective:

The objective of this review is to compare International Normalized Ratio (INR) monitoring adherence in two different settings: the outpatient INR clinic and the patient's home or residence. The review seeks to identify non-adherence trends in both settings to help providers determine which setting is best for patients on warfarin to improve INR monitoring adherence. Improved INR monitoring adherence correlates with maintaining routine INR testing.

Specifically, the review question is what is the effect of home point-of-care INR monitoring compared to clinic monitoring on INR monitoring adherence in adults taking oral anticoagulant medications?
Passive heat stress reduces circulating endothelial and platelet microparticles
Authors: Bain Anthony R. , Ainslie Philip N. , Bammert Tyler D. , Hijmans Jamie G. , Sekhon Mypinder , Hoiland Ryan L. , Flück Daniela , Donnelly Joseph , DeSouza Christopher A.
Published: April 2017

New Findings

What is the central question of this study?

Does passive heat stress of +2°C oesophageal temperature change concentrations of circulating arterial endothelial‐ and platelet‐derived microparticles in healthy adults?

What is the main finding and its importance?

Concentrations of circulating endothelial‐ and platelet‐derived microparticles were markedly decreased in heat stress. Reductions in circulating microparticles might indicate favourable vascular changes associated with non‐pathological hyperthermia.

Interest in circulating endothelial‐ and platelet‐derived microparticles (EMPs and PMPs, respectively) has increased because of their potential pathogenic role in vascular disease and as biomarkers for vascular health. Hyperthermia is commonly associated with a pro‐inflammatory stress but might also provide vascular protection when the temperature elevation is non‐pathological. Circulating microparticles might contribute to the cellular adjustments and resultant vascular impacts of hyperthermia. Here, we determined whether circulating concentrations of arterial EMPs and PMPs are altered by passive heat stress (+2°C oesophageal temperature). Ten healthy young men (age 23 ± 3 years) completed the study. Hyperthermia was achieved by circulating ∼49°C water through a water‐perfused suit that covered the entire body except the hands, feet and head. Arterial (radial) blood samples were obtained immediately before heating (normothermia) and in hyperthermia. The mean ± SD oesophageal temperature in normothermia was 37.2 ± 0.1°C and in hyperthermia 39.1 ± 0.1°C. Concentrations of circulating EMPs and PMPs were markedly decreased in hyperthermia. Activation‐derived EMPs were reduced by ∼30% (mean ± SD; from 61 ± 8 to 43 ± 7 microparticles μl−1; P < 0.05) and apoptosis‐derived EMPs by ∼45% (from 46 ± 7 to 23 ± 3 microparticles μl−1; P < 0.05). Likewise, circulating PMPs were reduced by ∼75% in response to hyperthermia (from 256 ± 43 to 62 ± 14 microparticles μl−1). These beneficial reductions in circulating EMPs and PMPs in response to a 2°C increase in core temperature might partly underlie the reported vascular improvements following therapeutic bouts of physiological hyperthermia.