bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High‐Resolution Characterization of a Chlorinated Solvent Impacted Aquifer Using a Passive Profiler
Authors: Schneider Haley A. , Jackson W. Andrew , Hatzinger Paul B. , Schaefer Charles E.
Published: September 2020

A direct‐drive high‐resolution passive profiler (HRPP) was developed to quantify and delineate concentrations of chlorinated volatile organic compounds (CVOCs), geochemical indicators and CVOC‐degrading microorganisms/genes, as well as to perform compound‐specific stable isotope analysis (CSIA) of CVOCs and estimate interstitial velocity at <30‐cm resolution. The profilers can be coupled together to provide a continuous sample interval and advanced to depths up to approximately 9 m below‐ground surface (bgs) within saturated media where direct‐push techniques are feasible. The HRPP was field tested in a previous dense nonaqueous phase liquid (DNAPL) source zone at the former Naval Air Station in Alameda, CA. HRPP data sets were compared to the following traditional groundwater data sets: CVOC and anion concentrations in standard and multilevel monitoring well water samples, CVOC concentrations in soil core samples, qualitative contaminant profiles delineated with a membrane interface probe (MIP), microbial community and CSIA profiles from Bio‐Traps® deployed in wells, groundwater velocity from passive flux meters (PFMs), lithologic profiles correlated with MIP electrical conductivity (EC), and velocity estimates based on permeability profiles measured with a Geoprobe hydraulic profiling tool (HPT). In some cases, the HRPP data were equivalent to traditional techniques and, in other cases, the HRPP data were more representative of local variability rather than bulk aquifer conditions. Overall the results support the use of the HRPP to provide high‐resolution data on concentrations, velocity, and microbial activity in temporary direct‐push deployments without well installation, providing a new tool to better assess source zones and contaminated groundwater plumes, even in low permeability media, and to increase the fidelity of site transport models.
The origins of the Piast dynasty and its polity in historiographical perspective
Authors: Dalewski Zbigniew
Published: September 2020

The Piast dynasty has a long history. It ruled Poland for several centuries until the late 14th century and its last male representative died in the late 17th century only. The origins of the Piasts are not, however, clear. Due to scarcity of sources, their earliest history is full of gaps and controversies. The traditional narrative presented the emergence of the Piast polity as a result of a long evolutionary state‐building process going back to the tribal times, a century and half before the information about the Piasts appeared in the written sources in the second half of the 10th century. In the last decades that narrative was seriously questioned. The new analysis of archaeological evidence using the dendrochronological method proved that the Piast polity emerged much later and much faster than thought before.
Polar compound composition of four vegetable oils as affected by tert‐butylhydroquinone (TBHQ) and chlorophyll during room‐temperature storage
Authors: Chen Jia , Zhang Lingyan , Wen Yuxiu , Li Yonglin , Sun Yiwen , Yu Xiuzhu
Published: September 2020

The interaction of tert‐butylhydroquinone (TBHQ) or chlorophyll with the oxidative phenomena involving oils has been previously reported. This study aimed to investigate the effects of TBHQ and chlorophyll on the polar compound composition of four vegetable oils during room‐temperature storage. Samples with different oxidation levels were collected. The results obtained showed that the major changes in polar compounds occurred in oxidised triglyceride (TAG) monomer (OxTG) content, whereas no evident change transpired in other components. The TBHQ‐added and chlorophyll‐added groups caused a decrease in the levels of OxTG in peanut and linseed oils. The chlorophyll‐added group contained high amount of OxTG in rapeseed oil, whereas no such phenomenon occurred in the TBHQ‐added group. This finding can be due to the antioxidant effect of chlorophyll in the dark. Therefore, the role of TBHQ or chlorophyll in TAG oxidation results from different phenomena that occur depending on the system and type of oil.
Standardization of Prothrombin Time/International Normalized Ratio (PT/INR)
Authors: Dorgalaleh Akbar , Favaloro Emmanuel J. , Bahraini Mehran , Rad Fariba
Published: September 2020

The prothrombin time (PT) represents the most commonly used coagulation test in clinical laboratories. The PT is mathematically converted to the international normalized ratio (INR) for use in monitoring anticoagulant therapy with vitamin K antagonists such as warfarin in order to provide test results that are adjusted for thromboplastin and instrument used. The INR is created using two major PT ‘correction factors’, namely the mean normal PT (MNPT) and the international sensitivity index (ISI). Manufacturers of reagents and coagulometers have made some efforts to harmonizing INRs, for example, by tailoring reagents to specific coagulometers and provide associated ISI values. Thus, two types of ISIs may be generated, with one being a ‘general’ or ‘generic’ ISI and others being reagent/coagulometer‐specific ISI values. Although these play a crucial role in improving INR results between laboratories, these laboratories reported INR values are known to still differ, even when laboratories use the same thromboplastin reagent and coagulometer. Moreover, ISI values for a specific thromboplastin can vary among different models of coagulometers from a manufacturer using the same method for clot identification. All these factors can be sources of error for INR reporting, which in turn can significantly affect patient management. In this narrative review, we provide some guidance to appropriate ISI verification/validation, which may help decrease the variability in cross laboratory reporting of INRs.
Differential immune responses of immunoglobulin Z subclass members in antibacterial immunity in a zebrafish model
Authors: Ji Jian‐fei , Hu Chong‐bin , Shao Tong , Fan Dong‐dong , Zhang Nan , Lin Ai‐fu , Xiang Li‐xin , Shao Jian‐zhong
Published: September 2020

Immunoglobulin Z (IgZ) or its equivalent immunoglobulin T (IgT) is a newly identified immunoglobulin (Ig) class from teleost fish. This Ig class is characterized by its involvement in mucosa‐associated lymphoid tissues (MALTs) for mucosal defence against pathogen infection. Recently, several subclass members of IgZ/IgT, such as IgZ, IgZ2, Igτ1, Igτ2 and Igτ3, have been further identified from zebrafish, common carp and rainbow trout. However, the functional diversity and correlation among these subclasses remain uncertain. Here, we explored the differential immune reactions of the IgZ and IgZ2 subclasses in antibacterial immunity in a zebrafish model. IgZ was extensively distributed in the peripheral serum and skin/gill MALTs and showed a rapid induction upon bacterial infection. IgZ2 was specialized in skin/gill MALTs and showed a strong induction following IgZ production. Correspondingly, the IgZ+ B cells had a wider distribution in the systemic primary/secondary lymphoid tissues and MALTs than the IgZ2+ B cells, which were predominant in MALTs. IgZ and IgZ2 exhibited a complementary effect in antibacterial immunity by possessing differential abilities. That is, IgZ is preferentially involved in bactericidal reaction that is in part C1q‐dependent, and IgZ2 participates in neutralization action through bacteria‐coating activity. The production of IgZ largely depended on the αβ T/CD4+ T cells, whereas that of IgZ2 did not, suggesting the different dependencies of IgZ and IgZ2 on systemic immunity. Our findings demonstrate that the functional behaviour and mechanism of the IgZ/IgT family are more diverse than previously recognized and thus improve the current knowledge about this ancient Ig class.
Can children’s oral hygiene and sleep routines be compromised during the COVID‐19 pandemic?
Authors: Baptista Ana Sofia , Prado Ivana Meyer , Perazzo Matheus França , Pinho Teresa , Paiva Saul Martins , Pordeus Isabela Almeida , Serra‐Negra Júnia Maria
Published: September 2020

Background

During COVID‐19 pandemic, children are confined at home, with changes in family routines.

Aim

Evaluate sleep disorders among Brazilian and Portuguese children during social distancing, and its association with parental perception of child's oral hygiene.

Design

In this cross‐sectional study, Portuguese and Brazilian parents/caregivers of 3‐ to 15‐year‐old children, practicing social distancing due to COVID‐19 pandemic, answered an online questionnaire, from April 24‐26, 2020, evaluating sociodemographic characteristics, child's school activities online, child's sleep quality during social distancing. Two questions from the questionnaire, developed based on previous studies, evaluated the parental perception of child's oral hygiene quality and routine changes during social distancing. Parents/caregivers answered five domains of the Portuguese‐language version of the Sleep Disturbances Scale for Children, evaluating sleep‐breathing disorders, disorders of arousal, sleep‐wake transition disorders, disorders of excessive somnolence and sleep hyperhidrosis. Descriptive, Linear‐by‐linear association, Kruskal‐Wallis and post hoc analysis were performed (P ≤ .05).

Results

Participated in the study 253 parents/caregivers, 50.2% from Brazil. Most parents (72.2%) reported changes in child's routine during social distancing. Sleep breathing disorders (P = .019), sleep‐wake transition disorders (P = .022), and disorders of excessive somnolence (P < .001) were associated with poor oral hygiene during social distancing.

Conclusion

Sleep disorders are associated with poor oral hygiene during social distancing.
Silicothermic synthesis of phase‐pure HfB2 fine powder
Authors: Zhang Jinhua , Xiong Si , Wang Jingran , Ni Yue’e , Ke Changming
Published: September 2020

Phase pure and nano‐sized hafnium diboride (HfB2) fine powder was prepared via a novel sustainable silicothermic route at 1100°C from inexpensive raw materials HfO2, Na2B4O7 and Si. By introducing sodium oxysalts as source of Na2O into the batch mixtures, the SiO2/ Na2O modulus in the melt were reduced from 5:1 to 2:1, and the original water‐insoluble byproduct SiO2 was taken by the melt at test temperature and converted into water soluble sodium silicate (Na2Si2O5) which was easily removed from the reacted mass via simple hot water washing. Consequently, the aqua sodium silicate could be readily recycled and used as a precursor for preparing many other valuable materials due to absence of foreign salts (eg halides, especially in the molten salt‐assisted synthesis process) in the synthesis process, and the relevant environmental concerns could be alleviated. Using excessive amount of 20 wt% Si and 15 wt% Na2B4O7 as compensation for the evaporation loss of silicon, in the form of SiO (g), and B2O3 in the reduction process, a high reaction extent was achieved and HfO2 and Na2B4O7 were completely converted into HfB2 at 1100°C.
Unravelling the small‐island effect through phylogenetic community ecology
Authors: Matthews Thomas J. , Rigal François , Kougioumoutzis Kostas , Trigas Panayiotis , Triantis Kostas A.
Published: September 2020

Aim

The small‐island effect (SIE) describes a different relationship between island area and species richness on smaller compared to larger islands. The pattern has recently gained widespread support. However, few studies have attempted to identify the actual mechanisms driving the SIE. Here, we use a phylogenetic community framework to study the SIE, based on the assumption that if the dominant assembly processes differ between small and large islands, patterns of phylogenetic community structure should shift across the area and habitat diversity gradient.

Location

The Aegean Archipelago, Greece.

Taxon

Plants.

Methods

We used a large dataset of 3,262 vascular plant species distributed across 173 islands, in combination with a species‐level phylogeny. The phylogenetic community structure of each island was calculated using a null modelling framework and was quantified using effect sizes (ES); negative values indicating phylogenetic clustering and positive values overdispersion. Habitat diversity, species richness, phylogenetic diversity (PD) and ES values were regressed against log10‐transformed area and we tested for a SIE using piecewise regression models. We also assessed differences in taxonomic and phylogenetic composition between small and large islands using a beta diversity framework.

Results

We found evidence of a SIE using species richness, PD and phylogenetic community structure (ES values). Small islands displayed low variation in habitat diversity and tended to be more phylogenetically clustered, while large islands shifted from phylogenetic clustering towards phylogenetic overdispersion with increasing area and habitat diversity. In addition, we showed that phylogenetic composition tended to be more similar between small islands than expected.

Main conclusion

Overall, our results provide an example of a SIE in the analysis of island phylogenetic community structure, and point to a role of habitat diversity in driving the SIE more generally.
Linking seascape with landscape genetics: Oceanic currents favour colonization across the Galápagos Islands by a coastal plant
Authors: Arjona Yurena , Fernández‐López Javier , Navascués Miguel , Alvarez Nadir , Nogales Manuel , Vargas Pablo
Published: September 2020

Aim

Coastal plants are terrestrial organisms for which ocean surface currents often act as long‐distance dispersal vectors (thalassochorous species) favouring broad distributions and connecting distant populations. However, few studies have statistically assessed the role of currents in modulating gene flow and species distributions of terrestrial organisms. Here we evaluate the hypothesis that some thalassochorous plants exhibit population connectivity, presumably due to effective seed dispersal driven by sea currents.

Location

Galápagos Islands (Ecuador).

Taxon

Salt bush (Cryptocarpus pyriformis Kunth), a Galápagos native and locally widespread coastal angiosperm.

Methods

Using 1806 SNPs obtained by ddRADseq, we evaluated the genetic structure and differentiation of the Galápagos salt bush. To assess the role of sea currents in modulating inter‐population gene flow, four explicit hypotheses were tested using reciprocal causal modelling and spatial eigenvector analysis: (a) isolation by sea resistance, considering that only sea dispersal is possible; (b) isolation by sea and inland resistance, considering that inland dispersal is also possible; (c) isolation by barrier, considering the sea as an obstacle to seed dispersal; and (d) isolation by geographical distance.

Results

Low differentiation and little genetic structure were detected among populations of C. pyriformis. Pairwise genetic distances between populations from different islands were significantly correlated with cost distances calculated from sea‐current direction and speed. Nonetheless, inland dispersal also accounted for some gene flow within each island.

Main conclusion

Extensive and frequent seed dispersal by sea has apparently favoured strong inter‐island genetic connectivity within Galápagos. A combination of methods developed for terrestrial and marine domains (landscape and seascape genetics) aids in understanding how landscape features modulate gene flow of coastal plant species, as these terrestrial organisms are highly dependent on the sea for seed dispersal.
Fibroblast growth factor 1 ameliorates adipose tissue inflammation and systemic insulin resistance via enhancing adipocyte mTORC2/Rictor signal
Authors: Zhao Longwei , Fan Miaojuan , Zhao Lijun , Yun Hongyan , Yang Yan , Wang Chen , Qin Di
Published: September 2020

Obesity‐induced activation and proliferation of resident macrophages and infiltration of circulating monocytes in adipose tissues contribute to adipose tissue inflammation and insulin resistance. These effects further promote the development of metabolic syndromes, such as type 2 diabetes, which is one of the most prevalent health conditions severely threatening human health worldwide. Our study examined the potential molecular mechanism employed by fibroblast growth factor 1 (FGF1) to improve insulin sensitivity. The leptin receptor‐deficient obese mice (db/db) served as an insulin‐resistant model. Our results demonstrated that FGF1‐induced amelioration of insulin resistance in obese mice was related to the decreased levels of pro‐inflammatory adipose tissue macrophages (ATMs) and plasma inflammatory factors. We found that FGF1 enhanced the adipocyte mTORC2/Rictor signalling pathway to inhibit C‐C chemokine ligand 2 (CCL2) production, the major cause of circulating monocytes infiltration, activation and proliferation of resident macrophages in adipose tissues. Conversely, these alleviating effects of FGF1 were substantially abrogated in adipocytes with reduced expression of mTORC2/rictor. Furthermore, a model of adipocyte‐specific mTORC2/Rictor‐knockout (AdRiKO) obese mice was developed to further understand the in vitro result. Altogether, these results demonstrated adipocyte mTORC2/Rictor was a crucial target for FGF1 function on adipose tissue inflammation and insulin sensitivity.
Time to relapse after tildrakizumab withdrawal in patients with moderate‐to‐severe psoriasis who were responders at week 28: post hoc analysis through 64 weeks from reSURFACE 1 trial
Authors: Warren R.B. , Carrascosa J.M. , Fumero E. , Schoenenberger A. , Lebwohl M.G. , Szepietowski J.C. , Reich K.
Published: September 2020

Background

As treatment interruptions occur during psoriasis management in clinical practice, it is important to know the duration of clinical response after treatment withdrawal.

Objectives

To report time to and predictors of relapse in patients who were tildrakizumab 100 and 200 mg responders (≥75% improvement in Psoriasis Area and Severity Index, PASI 75) at week 28 re‐randomized to placebo from reSURFACE 1 trial.

Methods

Post hoc analysis of adult patients with moderate‐to‐severe plaque psoriasis from a 64‐week phase 3 trial. Relapse was primarily defined as loss of PASI 75 response. Both relapses defined as loss of PASI 90 and loss of absolute PASI < 2 response were included as sensitivity analyses. PASI 75, PASI 90 and PASI < 2 responders re‐randomized to placebo at week 28 and followed up until week 64 were included. The Kaplan–Meier (KM) estimates of the 64‐week relapse rate were calculated. The log‐rank test to compare KM curves from responders to tildrakizumab 100 and 200 mg was used. Independent predictors of relapse were explored.

Results

Median time to loss of PASI 75/PASI 90/PASI < 2 response from week 28 was 142/111/112 days with tildrakizumab 100 mg and 172/140/113 days with tildrakizumab 200 mg, respectively (all not significant). Around 20% of patients did not relapse (either maintained a PASI 75 response or were lost to follow‐up) during the 36‐week period. Increase in body mass index (BMI) (hazard ratio, HR [95% confidence interval, CI] for loss of PASI 75 response: 1.0345 [1.0112–1.0582]) and increase in disease duration (HR [95% CI]: 1.0151 [1.0028–1.0275] for loss of PASI 75 response) were associated with an increased risk of relapse, regardless of the relapse definition.

Conclusions

When treatment is interrupted, tildrakizumab provides durable maintenance of efficacy with a median time to loss of PASI 75 response of 5–6 months, irrespective of the dose. Interventions on modifiable risk factors for relapse, such as BMI, may improve personalized long‐term psoriasis management.
Comparing the use of a novel antibiotic‐free film‐forming topical wound dressing versus a topical triple antibiotic in dermatologic surgical procedures including Mohs micrographic surgery
Authors: Benedetto A.V. , Staidle J.P. , Schoenfeld J. , Benedetto E.A. , Benedetto P.X.
Published: September 2020

Background

There is no universally accepted protocol of topical wound care after cutaneous surgical procedures. The current practice is to use petrolatum‐based products, commonly containing topical antibiotics. The rise in antibiotic‐resistant bacteria and increased risk of allergic and contact dermatitis due to the use of topical antibiotics is well established.

Objective

To compare the prevalence of contact dermatitis, the infection rate and the subjective measures of healing of a novel, antibiotic‐free, film‐forming silicone‐based wound dressing to a topical triple antibiotic petrolatum‐based ointment in patients undergoing invasive dermatological interventions in two arms: (1) Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS) and (2) a combination of various routine dermatologic surgical procedures.

Design

The 231 patients were enrolled in this open‐label, randomized, single‐blinded study. Patients applied the products immediately after surgery and daily afterwards. Clinicians evaluated the surgical site for infection or contact dermatitis at all follow‐up visits. Acute wound healing progression was assessed using a rating scale against clinical experience and expected results from −4 (much worse) to +4 (much better).

Results

Contact dermatitis was significantly decreased in the wound dressing group compared to the topical antibiotic group (0 vs 15.9%, P < 0.001). There was no difference between the study arms (Mohs vs. non‐Mohs, P = 0.242). Infection rate was not significantly different between the groups (P > 0.05) and between the study arms (P > 0.05). Assessor‐rated secondary outcomes like healing time, healing quality, erythema and new tissue quality were significantly better in the wound dressing group, while comfort and perceived overall satisfaction were better in the antibiotic group. Patient‐rated outcomes did not show any difference between groups and between study arms.

Conclusion

The wound dressing used in this study is a topical silicone gel preparation and presents a viable alternative to topical antibiotics for postoperative wound care without enhancing the risk of infection.
Psoriasis severity: commonly used clinical thresholds may not adequately convey patient impact
Authors: Golbari N.M. , van der Walt J.M. , Blauvelt A. , Ryan C. , van de Kerkhof P. , Kimball A.B.
Published: September 2020

Background

Psoriasis severity is usually evaluated using quantitative and qualitative measures, including per cent body surface area (BSA) involvement, the Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) and the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI), a patient‐reported questionnaire. However, standardized definitions for psoriasis severity categories have not been well established. A PASI of 10 or 12 has remained the minimal severity threshold defining eligibility for psoriasis treatments. In the present study, the validity of this cut‐off was re‐evaluated in the context of quality of life.

Objective

To determine whether the thresholds commonly used to define moderate psoriasis (PASI of 10–12 and BSA of 10) are supported by patient‐reported DLQI data.

Methods

A systematic review of randomized controlled trials that enrolled mild or moderate patients published between January 2000 and June 2017 was used to assess correlations between provider and patient‐generated severity at baseline.

Results

For subject groups with high impact on quality of life (DLQI > 10), the mean weighted BSA was 7.6 (Range: 7.1–8.4) and the mean weighted DLQI was 11 (Range: 10.2–12.2). Similarly, the mean weighted PASI for patients with DLQI > 10 was 8.7 (Range: 7.1–10.1) and the mean weighted DLQI was 10.9 (Range: 10.1–12.2).

Conclusion

Patients with PASI or BSA scores less than 10 can have major quality of life impairment. In general, the objective measures of BSA and PASI alone, when excluding DLQI, may not fully capture the impact of disease severity.
Dementia and Falls Management in Underserved Populations: The Cognition and Mobility Care Management Program
Authors: Tan Zaldy S. , Hamade Wael , Menkin Josephine , de Pacheco Renee Guillen , Gans Daphna , Weintraub Nancy , Garcia Maribel , Guerrero Lourdes R. , Reuben David B.
Published: September 2020

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

Cognitive and mobility impairments are common and underdiagnosed chronic conditions that afflict community‐dwelling older adults. This study describes the organization, implementation, and evaluation of an intervention for underserved and ethnically diverse older patients with dementia and/or falls risk.

DESIGN

Observation, baseline and 1 year after intervention.

SETTING

Community‐based primary care county clinics in inland southern California.

PARTICIPANTS

A total of 272 persons, aged 70 years and older, who screened positive for falls and/or dementia and enrolled in the Cognition and Mobility Care Management program during the study period.

INTERVENTION

A nurse care manager performed a patient and caregiver evaluation and created and implemented a care plan with medical, behavioral, and psychosocial interventions in partnership with patients and their primary care providers.

MEASUREMENTS

Process outcomes included rates of positive screening for dementia and fall risk, referral, enrollment, and visit completion. Patient outcomes included fall history, mobility and cognitive assessments, and depression scales. Patients and/or caregivers completed questionnaires rating perceived benefits of enrollment after 1 year in the program.

RESULTS

Medical assistants screened 573 patients aged 70 years and older during the study period; 78% screened positive for dementia and/or fall risk. Of the patients who screened positive, 94% were referred; 91% of contacted patients elected to enroll, and 272 patients completed an intake visit (meanage = 77 years; 65% female; 75% Latino; 10% African American). The patients and caregivers who completed satisfaction questionnaires 1 year after enrollment rated the program highly, and 92% would recommend the program to others.

CONCLUSION

A primary care–based screening and comanagement program to identify and manage dementia and falls risk in primarily Latino and African American older adult patients living in an underserved area was well received, with high satisfaction and perceived benefit from patients and caregivers.
Assessing P‐T variability in mélange blocks from the Catalina Schist: Is there differential movement at the subduction interface?
Authors: Harvey Kayleigh M. , Penniston‐Dorland Sarah C. , Kohn Matthew J. , Piccoli Philip M.
Published: September 2020

In subduction‐related tectonic mélange, thermobarometry on individual blocks can in principle constrain the scale of lithological mixing along the subduction interface. Previous thermobarometric investigation of the tectonic amphibolite facies mélange unit in the Catalina Schist, Santa Catalina Island, California, USA, has suggested relatively limited mixing among blocks (≤12 km). Here we further investigate scales of mixing among metamorphically disparate (‘exotic’) blocks within epidote‐amphibolite and lawsonite‐blueschist facies mélange of the Catalina Schist using field and petrographic observations, Zr‐in‐rutile thermometry, and quartz‐in‐garnet elastic barometry. A new statistically based method is presented for calculating elastic barometry maximum pressures. The exotic blocks record peak metamorphic temperatures between 580 and 735°C and peak pressures between 1.16 and 1.65 GPa. Temperatures primarily fall in between those recorded by rocks in the amphibolite facies and epidote amphibolite facies units (643–735°C and 553–596°C respectively). The pressure estimates encompass those recorded by blocks from the amphibolite facies mélange (1.34–1.44 GPa), although the exotic blocks record a much larger range of pressures. The large range of recorded temperatures and pressures suggests that blocks within the epidote amphibolite unit were sourced from and mixed along a 20–30 km region of the subduction interface while an exotic block from the lawsonite blueschist facies unit appears to have been sourced from at least 70 km deeper than the unit it is hosted in. Metre‐ to kilometre‐scale variations in matrix mineral rheology likely control strain partitioning at the interface and permit differential transport of mélange blocks over variable length scales.
Multiple oral granulomatous nodules to hyaluronic acid filler
Authors: Caldas Pozuelo Carmen , Domínguez De Dios Julia , Mota Rojas Xenia
Published: September 2020

A 74‐year‐old Caucasian woman presented with a 2‐week history of multiple nodules in both lips and perioral region that caused her mild discomfort while eating. The patient reported hyaluronic acid infiltration on both lips 5 months prior to presentation. The examination revealed multiple, well‐defined, millimetric, and firm nodules on both lips and oral mucosa. An excisional biopsy of one of the nodules was performed under local anesthesia. Histopathological analysis demonstrated acute eosinophilic inflammation, fibrosis, and granulomas on mucoid material, positive for colloidal iron stain and Alcian blue stain, alongside a minor salivary gland showed mild atrophy, fibrosis, and fat infiltration. Enhancement of the aged lip using hyaluronic acid, to restore the bulkiness and elasticity that have been lost with age, is very common. Nevertheless, soft tissue fillers are used in a wide age range. Hyaluronic acid represents 78% of the dermal filler injections in the United States, been the second most popular nonsurgical cosmetic procedure after botulinum toxin injection. Foreign body granulomatous reaction is a rare delayed complication that has been well documented elsewhere and it has been associated with poor injection technique. Although it also has been related to hypersensitivity reactions that may be caused by impurities developed during the bacterial fermentation process, treatment of granulomatous reactions with hyaluronidase is recommended.
Fusidic acid cream comparatively minimizes signs of inflammation and postinflammatory hyperpigmentation after ablative fractional CO2 laser resurfacing in Chinese patients: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Wei Min , Li Li , Zhang Xiao Feng , Li Mengna , Wang Baoxi , Yan Yan
Published: September 2020

Background

Inflammation and postinflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) are two adverse side effects of ablative fractional CO2 laser (ablative Fr CO2) treatment for both rejuvenation and acne scars.

Aims

To evaluate the efficacy of fusidic acid cream versus erythromycin ointment as postoperative therapy in patients who underwent ablative Fr CO2 treatment for atrophic acne scars.

Methods

Sixty Chinese patients who fulfilled the study criteria were recruited and randomly assigned to an experimental group treated with fusidic acid cream or a control group treated with erythromycin ointment. Postoperative treatment lasted for 7 days in each group. Each patient had two follow‐up visits at 8 and 12 weeks. In total, three patients dropped out of the study, one in the experimental group at week 8 and two in the control group at weeks 8 and 12. Baseline and postoperative inflammation and PIH were assessed by facial examination, photographs, and questionnaires. Besides, PIH was evaluated by the Hyperpigmentation Activity and Severity Index (HASI) and a five‐point grading system.

Results

Moderate‐to‐severe PIH was observed in both groups. However, the mean HASI score and severity of PIH in the experimental group were lower than those of the control group at weeks 8 and 12 (P < 0.05). In the control group, one patient developed postoperative abscesses and one had papules, whereas no inflammation was observed in the experimental group participants.

Conclusion

Fusidic acid cream shows promise as a common treatment after ablative Fr CO2 therapy to reduce postoperative inflammation and PIH.
Constructing a problem and marketing solutions: A critical content analysis of the nature and function of industry‐authored oral health educational materials
Authors: Grundy Quinn , Cussen Cliodna , Dale Craig
Published: September 2020

Aims and objectives

To document the nature of industry‐authored educational materials focused on oral health; and analyse how they construct the relationships between nurses and industry.

Background

Nurses frequently rely on pharmaceutical and medical device companies for continuing education. However, industry‐sponsored education is a key aspect of multi‐faceted promotional campaigns and may introduce bias into clinical decision‐making.

Design

Critical qualitative content analysis reported according to the COREQ checklist.

Methods

We purposively sampled educational documents from the websites of 4 major manufacturers of oral health products for acute care. Two researchers analysed each document using an open‐ended coding form. We conducted an interpretive analysis using inductive coding methods.

Results

We included 63 documents that emphasised the importance of education in the form of training, expert guidance, evidence syntheses and protocols to support oral care practices. Industry promoted its relationship with nursing as an oral health authority through three dominant messages: (1) Pneumonia is a source of morbidity, mortality and treatment costs, which informed nurses about a critical problem; (2) Comprehensive oral care reduces pneumonia risk, which instructed nurses about product‐oriented solutions; and (3) Frequent oral care is important, which emphasised compliance to standardised protocols. These messages formed an accountability logic that prompted clinicians to address a problem for which the company's products served as a solution. In doing so, industry validated dominant administrative concerns including compliance, while promoting product uptake.

Conclusions

Industry‐authored educational materials may promote industry interests, rather than nursing or patient agendas. Dependence on industry's information and product solutions may have unintended, negative consequences for nursing practice.

Relevance to clinical practice

Though industry's educational materials present as convenient, helpful and evidence‐based, they may serve to redirect care processes in ways that reinforce company goals rather than clinical priorities. Nurses should seek independent sources of continuing education where possible.
Effects of perioperative exercise interventions on lung cancer patients: An overview of systematic reviews
Authors: Zhou Weijiao , Woo Seoyoon , Larson Janet L.
Published: September 2020

Aims and Objectives

To identify, appraise and summarise systematic reviews of exercise interventions for surgical lung cancer patients.

Background

Low exercise capacity, reduced pulmonary function, impaired health‐related quality of life and postoperative pulmonary complications are common in surgical lung cancer patients. Numerous systematic reviews address these health problems and examine the effects of exercise intervention. However, differences in the quality and scope of the systematic reviews and discordant findings from the reviews make it difficult for decisions‐makers to interpret the evidence and establish best practices in the clinical settings.

Design

Overview of systematic reviews.

Methods

This overview was conducted following the PRISMA guideline. A literature search of PubMed, CINAHL, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, SPORTDiscus and PEDro was conducted (October 2019). Peer‐reviewed systematic reviews of randomised controlled trials focusing on the effects of exercise interventions for lung cancer patients who underwent surgery were included. The methodological quality of included reviews was assessed using AMSTAR 2. The results of reviews with meta‐analysis were synthesised and presented by each health outcome.

Results

Seven systematic reviews published between 2013 and 2019 were included. High/moderate‐quality evidence showed that postoperative exercise interventions could increase the exercise capacity and muscle strength, and low/very‐low‐quality evidence showed that postoperative exercise interventions may increase the physical component of health‐related quality of life and decease dyspnoea. Low‐quality evidence showed that preoperative exercise interventions may increase exercise capacity and pulmonary function, decrease the risk of postoperative pulmonary complications and reduce the length of hospital stay.

Conclusions

Postoperative and preoperative exercises have the potential to improve health outcomes in surgical lung cancer patients. Further research is needed to evaluate the effects of different types of exercise and varying amounts of exercise.

Relevance to clinical practice

This study provides evidence to support the implementation of exercise interventions for surgical lung cancer patients.
Feeling safe or unsafe in prehospital emergency care: A qualitative study of the experiences of patients, carers and healthcare professionals
Authors: Péculo‐Carrasco Juan‐Antonio , De Sola Helena , Casal‐Sánchez María‐del‐Mar , Rodríguez‐Bouza Mónica , Sánchez‐Almagro César‐Pedro , Failde Inmaculada
Published: September 2020

Aims and objectives

To determine the feelings of safety among patients taken to hospital after requesting urgent care, based on their experiences and those of their carers and prehospital emergency care professionals.

Background

Little research has been performed into the perception of safety in prehospital emergency care settings worldwide, from either the perspective of the patients or from that of healthcare professionals.

Design

Exploratory qualitative study using focus groups in Spain.

Methods

The participants were patients that requested care through the emergency telephone service, their carers and the professionals of the emergency care teams. The structured sampling design was based on an intentional, nonprobability selection following pragmatic criteria. Seven groups of patients/carers and two groups of professionals were formed (65 participants). The recordings were fully transcribed before their validation and codes were assigned to ensure anonymity. The ATLAS.ti software was used for the analysis. The authors took into account the COREQ checklist for qualitative studies.

Findings

Neither group provided a clear definition of the meaning of feeling safe. It appeared easier to give examples that had a positive or negative influence on their perception of feeling safe. During the analysis of the discourse, six categories were detected after grouping the related codes.

Conclusions

For most of the patients’ feeling of being safe or very safe arose from the perception of calmness, trust and protection. Defining the perception of safety was not easy. The factors with the greatest effect on feeling safe were related to Information and communication, Person‐centred care and Professional competency, without losing sight of other factors such as Accessibility and response times of the emergency teams, Equipment and Healthcare setting.

Relevance to clinical practice

The findings could be used as a knowledge base in future research and for implementing procedures for improving perceptions of safety among patients.
Comparison of midwives’ self‐perceived essential competencies between low and high maternal mortality ratio provinces in China
Authors: Huang Jing , Lu Hong , Li Jie , Zhou Nan , Zang Yu , Ren Lihua , Wang Jianying
Published: September 2020

Aims and objectives

To present and compare midwives’ self‐perceived essential competencies in regions with different maternal mortality ratios, and explore possible competency‐related factors.

Background

In China, there is an urgent need for high‐quality maternal health care with equal access, as the regional disparity in the maternal mortality ratio remains a big challenge. Midwives’ essential competencies refer to the minimum knowledge, skills, and professional behaviours required by midwives, and directly affect the quality of maternal care they provide. However, there is very limited literature evaluating Chinese midwives’ essential competencies, especially for midwives working in regions with high maternal mortality ratios.

Design

A cross‐sectional survey design.

Methods

The national cross‐sectional study using an online questionnaire was conducted with a convenience sample of 2,022 midwives working in regions with different maternal mortality ratios. The STROBE guideline for cross‐sectional studies was used in this study.

Results

Midwives rated themselves higher on their essential competencies in intrapartum care and lower on their essential competencies in assisting or performing the operative vaginal delivery. Specifically, when compared to those from regions of low maternal mortality ratios, midwives from regions with high maternal mortality ratios reported comparatively poor self‐perceived essential competencies, especially in the area of detecting and treating pregnancy and childbirth‐related complications. The factors influencing midwives’ self‐perceived essential competencies included majors, education levels, years of experience as a midwife, participation in teaching, and access to in‐service training.

Conclusion

In regions with high maternal mortality ratios, improving midwives’ essential competencies is a key priority. Furthermore, it is recommended that midwifery education could be conducted in universities, and relevant regulations could be developed to enable midwives to provide a wider scope of care, thereby promoting the development of the midwifery workforce in China.

Relevance to clinical practice

Understanding self‐perceived essential competencies of Chinese midwives working in regions with different maternal mortality ratios could guide the midwifery workforce, management, especially midwives’ capability building.
Intimate partner violence screening intention instrument for Thai nursing students: A principal component analysis
Authors: Udmuangpia Tipparat , Yu Mansoo , Bloom Tina
Published: September 2020

Background

Identifying factors related to intimate partner violence (IPV) screening intentions of future nurses is critical, but no studies specific to this research area exist in Thailand; nor does any validated instrument currently exist to systematically evaluate Thai nursing students’ IPV training or measure their readiness to address IPV. The purpose of this study was to develop the Intimate Partner Violence Screening Intention, Nursing Students (IPVSI‐NS) for Thai nursing students and identify components explaining their intentions to screen for intimate partner violence (IPV).

Method

We designed a Thai‐language, culturally appropriate 36‐item instrument based on the theory of planned behavior (TPB), which describes intentions as the precursors of actual behaviour. We then conducted an anonymous cross‐sectional online survey of female senior Thai nursing students (N = 594). Principal component analysis with varimax methods was used to examine the component structure of the instrument. The internal consistency reliability and convergent construct validity were evaluated. See Supporting File S1.

Results

A six‐component structure was evident which explained 59.56% of variance and identified: attitudes (advantages and disadvantages of screening), subjective norms (support from important people, and opinions of important people and policy) and perceived behavioural control (training experience, teamwork, facility resources and screening barriers).

Conclusion

The IPVSI‐NS, based on the TPB, provides a psychometrically sound, reliable and valid tool for Thai nursing educators and researchers to advance nursing education, practice and research regarding IPV.

Relevance to clinical practice

Provides support for the components of the TPB (attitude, subjective norm and perceived behavioural control) as an excellent fit to predict intention of IPV screening for future clinical nurses. Implications for future research and educational practice are discussed.
The ‘Fight against Corruption’ in Brazil from the 2000s: A Political Crusade through Judicial Activism
Authors: ENGELMANN FABIANO
Published: September 2020

The anti‐corruption struggle has become an international political doctrine since the 1990s. On the one hand, it has been anchored in organizations that promote ideas and models of ‘good governance’: non‐governmental organizations (NGOs), think tanks, the World Bank, and so on. On the other hand, it has acquired normative force in conventions of the United Nations (UN), the Organisation for Economic Co‐operation and Development (OECD), and other institutions that induce changes in national laws. The mobilization of this doctrine in the Brazilian national space is simultaneously related to the effects of political conjuncture and to broader structural factors. Since the re‐democratization of the country, legal elites have made increasing corporate and political gains. At the same time, the anti‐corruption prescriptions have reinforced political and economic groups’ discourse seeking to re‐establish the neoliberal agenda of the 1990s. In Brazil, this agenda's central axis focuses on the (de)legitimation of the social rights enshrined in the 1988 Constitution, and of the social policies implemented in recent decades. Among these structural factors, we can highlight the corporate stature and political credit acquired by judicial agents since the re‐democratization of the country. Looking at international variables as a starting point, this article aims to shed light on the links between Brazilian institutions and international anti‐corruption initiatives. The results are based on a comparison of the trajectories of core actors in this process and the main anti‐corruption initiatives of the 2000s in Brazil. These initiatives, paradoxically, have contributed to positioning judicial agents as central protagonists of a new version of the Brazilian authoritarian political tradition.
Mechanical tongue cleaning is a worthwhile procedure to improve the taste sensation
Authors: Timmesfeld Nina , Kunst Magdalene , Fondel Franziska , Güldner Christian , Steinbach Silke
Published: September 2020

Background

There are still only a few therapeutic strategies to improve taste sensation, which is part of oral health and quality of life.

Objective

Therefore, here we aimed to investigate gustatory functions of healthy subjects performing mechanical tongue cleaning (MTC), an easy‐to‐perform oral hygiene procedure, to demonstrate taste changes and to describe possible negative side effects.

Methods

Prior to and 14 days following MTC with an Orabrush®, the following tests were conducted in 65 healthy participants including both non‐smokers (n = 50, 76.9%) and smokers (n = 15, 23.1%): ‘taste strips’ test, the Winkel Tongue Coating Index (WTCI), and subjective self‐assessment.

Results

Among non‐smokers, subjective self‐assessments of gustatory function (P < .01), halitosis (P = .03) and tongue coating (P < .01) improved after 14 days of MTC; furthermore, they exhibited higher total taste (P < .01) and lower WTCI (P < .01) values. Their age and sex did not correlate with the differences between the pre‐ and post‐MTC WTCI scores; however, differences between pre‐ and post‐MTC total taste values were correlated with age. The total taste value improvements were greater in non‐smokers aged 45‐91 years than in those aged 20‐44 years (P = .01). In smokers, total taste values (P < .01), as well as sweet (P = .03) and sour (P = .04) taste values, were significantly improved after 14 days of MTC.

Conclusion

Fourteen days of MTC using an Orabrush® can improve gustatory functions in non‐smokers and smokers. Therefore, MTC might be a useful, costless and easy option to improve taste and should be considered as a part of the daily oral care.