bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Torsional Growth Modulation of Long Bones by Oblique Plating in a Rabbit Model
Authors: Lazarus David E. , Farnsworth Christine L. , Jeffords Megan E. , Marino Nikolas , Hallare Jericho , Edmonds Eric W.
Published: November 2017

Background:

There is evidence that oblique tension band plating can affect torsional growth in long bones. This study sought to determine if the torsional growth could be modulated based on the angles of the tension band plating and whether or not oblique plating affected overall longitudinal growth.

Methods:

New Zealand White rabbits (10.5 wk old) had one screw placed on the metaphyseal side and one on the epiphyseal side of both medial and lateral sides of the right knee distal femoral physis. The sham group (n=5) included screw placement only. For the plate group (n=13), unlocked plates, angled from 0 to 76 degrees, connected the screws and spanned the physis. Radiographs were taken at biweekly intervals. After 6 weeks of growth, hindlimbs were harvested and microCT scans performed. Femoral length, distances between screw heads and angle between the plates were measured on radiographs. Femoral length differences were compared between groups. Femoral version was measured from 3D microCT. Plate angle changes were correlated to the difference in femoral version between limbs using Pearson correlation (significance was set to P<0.05 for all comparisons).

Results:

Femur length difference between the contralateral and the operative side was significantly greater in the plate group compared with the sham group over time (P=0.049). Medial and lateral screw distances changed significantly more in the sham group than the plate group on both sides (P<0.001). A greater initial angle between plates resulted in a greater change in the angle between plates (P<0.001). Significant correlations were found between right-left side femoral version differences and initial plate angle (P=0.003) and plate angle change (P=0.014).

Conclusions:

The torsional effect of oblique plating seems to correlate with the amount of initial plate angle, with an additional, not negligible, longitudinal growth effect.

Clinical Significance:

Placing plates at given angles across open physes may result in predictable changes in bone torsion allowing for a safer and less invasive option when treating childhood torsional deformities, but the resulting shortening of the ipsilateral femur must be considered.
Autonomic Reflex Screen Test Abnormalities in Cold-Induced Sweating Syndrome Type 1
Authors: El-Dokla Ahmed M. , Ferdous Jannatul , Ali Sara T. , Alam Khondoker
Published: November 2017

Cold-induced sweating syndrome (CISS) is a rare autosomal recessive disease due to mutation in the Cytokine receptor-like factor 1 (CRLF1). The characteristic symptom of CISS is the tendency to sweat profusely especially in the upper body and hands when the patient is exposed to cold temperature. We sought to first report the findings of autonomic reflex screen in a case of CISS type 1 with Cytokine receptor-like factor 1 mutation. Valsalva morphology, Valsalva ratio, and heart rate response to deep breathing were normal for the patient's age. Quantitative sudomotor axon reflex test showed nonlength dependent decrease in the sweat volume. Tilt table revealed evidence of reflex (vasovagal) “syncope,” however, the patient was asymptomatic without loss of consciousness.
Paraneoplastic Lambert–Eaton Myasthenic Syndrome With Limbic Encephalitis: Clinical Correlation With the Coexistence of Anti-VGCC and Anti-GABAB Receptor Antibodies
Authors: Cho Jonathan J. , Wymer James P.
Published: November 2017

Objective:

To characterize Lambert–Eaton myasthenic syndrome and limbic encephalitis with coexistent voltage-gated calcium channel (VGCC) antibody and γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) B receptor antibody.

Methods:

Case study.

Results:

A 57-year-old man presented with 6 months of weakness, unsteadiness, and vision difficulties. Examination revealed proximal weakness and diminished reflexes. Electrodiagnostic study revealed low-amplitude motor potentials and facilitation on high-frequency stimulation. Laboratory evaluation identified P/Q-type VGCC antibody. Positron emission tomography identified a mediastinal lesion, confirmed as small-cell lung carcinoma. The patient developed confusion and seizures. Cerebrospinal fluid analysis identified antibodies to GABAB receptor.

Conclusions:

This case describes a patient with Lambert–Eaton myasthenic syndrome, limbic encephalitis, and autoantibodies to VGCC and GABAB receptor. Atypical presentation of paraneoplastic neurological syndromes could indicate the presence of a second antibody that may have significant impact on therapy.
Predictors of Nurses' Intentions to Administer As-Needed Opioid Analgesics for Pain Relief to Postoperative Orthopaedic Patients in the Acute Care Setting
Authors: Taylor Colleen Y. , Sheu Jiunn-Jye , Chen Huey-Shys , Glassman Tavis , Dake Joseph
Published: November 2017

BACKGROUND:

Patients undergoing orthopaedic surgery experience severe postoperative pain that is frequently undertreated. No study was found that examined the predictors of nurses' intentions to administer as needed (PRN) opioid analgesics for postoperative pain relief.

PURPOSE:

The purpose of this study was to determine what constructs from the Integrated Behavioral Model (IBM) can predict nurses' intentions to administer PRN opioid analgesics for pain relief to hospitalized postoperative orthopaedic patients.

METHODS:

A nonexperimental, cross-sectional quantitative format was used. The sample consisted of 800 nurses. Data collection was done by survey.

RESULTS:

Path analysis revealed the significant predictors of nurses' intention to administer opioid analgesics to be self-efficacy (β= 0.15), normative beliefs (β= 0.21), and salience (importance) of the behavior (β= 0.25).

CONCLUSION:

The study showed that the IBM constructs are useful for predicting intentions toward performance of a professional behavior. The inclusion of self-efficacy, underlying beliefs, and salience of the behavior was new and unique contributions to the existing body of knowledge.
Preoperative Risk Factors for Subsyndromal Delirium in Older Adults Who Undergo Joint Replacement Surgery
Authors: Denny Dawn L. , Lindseth Glenda
Published: November 2017

BACKGROUND:

Older adults with subsyndromal delirium have similar risks for adverse outcomes following joint replacement surgery as those who suffer from delirium.

PURPOSE:

This study examined relationships among subsyndromal delirium and select preoperative risk factors in older adults following major orthopaedic surgery.

METHODS:

Delirium assessments of a sample of 62 adults 65 years of age or older were completed on postoperative Days 1, 2, and 3 following joint replacement surgery. Data were analyzed for relationships among delirium symptoms and the following preoperative risk factors: increased comorbidity burden, cognitive impairment, fall history, and preoperative fasting time.

RESULTS:

Postoperative subsyndromal delirium occurred in 68% of study participants. A recent fall history and a longer preoperative fasting time were associated with delirium symptoms (p ≤ .05).

CONCLUSIONS:

Older adults with a recent history of falls within the past 6 months or a longer duration of preoperative fasting time may be at higher risk for delirium symptoms following joint replacement surgery.
Variability in Condom Use Trends by Sexual Risk Behaviors: Findings from the 2003–2015 National Youth Risk Behavior Surveys
Authors: Harper Christopher R. , Steiner Riley J. , Lowry Richard , Hufstetler Schell , Dittus Patricia J.
Published: November 2017

Objective

This study aimed to examine variability in condom use trends by sexual risk behavior among US high school students.

Methods

Data were from the 2003–2015 national Youth Risk Behavior Surveys conducted biennially among a nationally representative sample of students in grades 9 to 12. We used logistic regression to examine variability in trends of condom use during last sexual intercourse among female and male students by 4 sexual risk behaviors: drank alcohol or used drugs before last sexual intercourse, first sexual intercourse before age 13 years, 4 or more sex partners during their life, and 2 or more sex partners during the past 3 months.

Results

Between 2003 and 2015, significant declines in self-reported condom use were observed among black female (63.6% in 2003 to 46.7% in 2015) and white male students (69.0% in 2003 to 58.1% in 2015). Among female students, declines in self-reported condom use were significant only among those who drank or use drugs before last sexual intercourse, had 4 or more sex partners during their life, or had 2 or more sex partners during the past 3 months. There was a significant interaction between trends in condom use and first sexual intercourse before age 13 years, suggesting more pronounced declines among female students who initiated first sexual intercourse before age 13 years compared with their female peers. Trends did not vary by sexual risk behavior for male students.

Conclusions

Results suggest that declines in self-reported condom use have occurred among female students at greater risk for acquiring a sexually transmitted disease.
Clinicopathologic and Molecular Characteristics of Mesonephric Adenocarcinoma Arising From the Uterine Body
Authors: Na Kiyong , Kim Hyun-Soo
Published: November 2017

Mesonephric adenocarcinoma (MNAC) is a rare tumor of the female genital tract mainly occurring in the uterine cervix. To date, only a few cases of MNAC arising from of the uterine body (UB-MNAC) have been reported. The clinicopathologic and molecular characteristics of UB-MNAC remain unknown. In this study, we investigated the clinical, histopathologic, immunohistochemical, and genetic features of UB-MNAC. In total, 11 cases were included. Six patients developed metastatic disease, most commonly in lungs (5/6). Histopathologically, UB-MNAC was characterized by an admixture of tubular, glandular, papillary, retiform, glomeruloid, sex cord-like, and comedonecrosis-like architectural patterns. Three adverse pathologic characteristics, including advanced International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics stage, high mitotic activity, and presence of lymphovascular the invasion, were independent factors predicting the development of metastasis. All cases were positive for GATA-binding protein 3 and paired box 2 expression and showed wild-type p53, patchy p16, and preserved PTEN expression, as indicated by immunohistochemistry. Next-generation sequencing using 12 samples (11 primary tumors and 1 metastatic tumor) revealed 42 single nucleotide variations in 16 genes, mostly in KRAS (10/12) and ARID1A (9/12). Copy number variation was found in 16 genomic regions, and consisted of 57 gains and 10 losses, with 1q gain (11/12) being the most prevalent. In conclusion, UB-MNAC displays an aggressive biological behavior, with a tendency to metastasize to the lungs. Adverse pathologic characteristics reflect the aggressive nature of UB-MNAC. Distinct molecular features of UB-MNAC include frequent somatic mutations of KRAS and ARID1A and gain of 1q.
Gender inequalities in job quality during the recession
Authors: Ficapal-Cusí Pilar , Díaz-Chao Angel , Sainz-Ibáñez Milagros , Torrent-Sellens Joan
Published: November 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to empirically analyse gender differences in job quality during the first years of the economic crisis in Spain.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper uses microdata from the Quality of Working Life Survey. A representative sample of 5,381 and 4,925 Spanish employees (men and women) in 2008 and 2010, and a two-stage structural equation modelling (SEM) are empirically tested.

Findings

The study revealed three main results. First, the improvement in job quality was more favourable to men than it was to women. Second, the gender differences in the explanation of job quality increased considerably in favour of men. Third, this increase in gender-related job inequality in favour of men is explained by a worsening of 4 of the 5 explanatory dimensions thereof: intrinsic job quality; work organisation and workplace relationships; working conditions, work intensity and health and safety at work; and extrinsic rewards. Only inequality in the work-life balance dimension remained stable.

Research limitations/implications

The availability of more detailed microdata for other countries and new statistical methods for analysing causal relationships, particularly SEM-PLS, would allow new approaches to be taken.

Social implications

Public policy measures required to fight against gender inequalities are discussed.

Originality/value

The paper contributes to enrich the understanding of the multidimensional and gender-related determinants of job quality and, in particular, of studying the effects of the first years of the economic crisis.
How employees define organisational trust: analysing employee trust in organisation
Authors: Ozmen Y. Serkan
Published: November 2017

Purpose

Most business organisations try to create and maintain trustful relationships with their various stakeholders. Among all, sustaining a trustful relationship with employees has been particularly important for organisations. However, due to the multidimensional structure and changing nature of concept across settings, it is difficult to identify what makes an organisation trustworthy for its employees. The purpose of this study is to analyse the concept of organisational trust and identify how employees actually define organisational trust.

Design/methodology/approach

In the study, a survey was conducted on a sample of 104 employees who were working in Turkey. Following a qualitative and quantitative approach, the data were analysed to categorise the definitions of respondents according to the theoretical framework.

Findings

The findings of study closely overlap with the relevant literature, but they also extend the scope of definition with including new factors such as reputation management, strategic management or ethics and values. According to results, the perceptions of employees on organisational trust vary depending on their individual and organisational characteristics.

Practical implications

The study reveals the context depending nature of organisational trust. Developing a wider sense by capturing its full meaning and reflecting the different expectations of employees can increase the trust in organisations.

Originality/value

Based on the detailed review of literature, the study identifies the major dimensions of organisational trust and then reveals the similarities and differences with the literature. The study provides a viable perspective on the concept to capture its meaning in different contexts.
Performance of Cu-Al2O3 thin film as thermal interface material in LED package: thermal transient and optical output analysis
Authors: Lim Wei Qiang , Devarajan Mutharasu , Subramani Shanmugan
Published: November 2017

Purpose

This paper aims to study the influence of the Cu-Al2O3 film-coated Cu substrate as a thermal interface material (TIM) on the thermal and optical behaviour of the light-emitting diode (LED) package and the annealing effect on the thermal and optical properties of the films.

Design/methodology/approach

A layer-stacking technique has been used to deposit the Cu-Al2O3 films by means of magnetron sputtering, and the annealing process was conducted on the synthesized films.

Findings

In this paper, it was found that the un-annealed Cu-Al2O3–coated Cu substrate exhibited low value of thermal resistance compared to the bare Cu substrate and to the results of previous works. Also the annealing effect does not have a significant impact on the changes of properties of the films.

Research limitations/implications

It is deduced that the increase of the Cu layer thickness can further improve the thermal properties of the deposited film, which can reduce the thermal resistance of the package in system-level analysis.

Practical implications

The paper suggested that the Cu-Al2O3–coated Cu substrate can be used as alternative TIM for the thermal management of the application of LEDs.

Originality value

In this paper, the Cu substrate has been used as the substrate for the Cu-Al2O3 films, as the Cu substrate has higher thermal conductivity compared to the Al substrate as shown in previous work.
ZnO nanowire UV photodetector with multiple channels
Authors: Jiang Guohua , Zhao Dongmei , Zhao Bo
Published: November 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the optoelectronic properties of the multichannel ZnO UV photodetectors.

Design/methodology/approach

ZnO nanowires were assembled by dielectrophoresis for the UV photodetectors. Different ZnO channels were adjusted by different alternating current voltages and investigated for UV optoelectronic properties.

Findings

The number of the ZnO channels increases with the enhancing alternating current voltage. Optimum performance of the UV photodetectors is obtained with more channels.

Originality/value

Dielectrophoresis is a promising method for controllable assembly of multichannel ZnO photodetectors. ZnO photodetectors with more channels demonstrate a good response to 380-nm UV light, which shows great potential application in UV photodetector.
Thermomechanical reliability of conductive tracks screen printed on flexible magnetic sheets
Authors: Janeczek Kamil , Arazna Aneta , Lipiec Krzysztof
Published: November 2017

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to present thermal and mechanical durability of conductive tracks screen-printed with silver polymer pastes on flexible magnetic sheets.

Design/methodology/approach

A test pattern that consisted of three straight lines was printed with two different silver pastes on a flexible magnetic sheet and a polyethylene naphthalate (PEN) foil for comparison. Electrical properties of these lines were examined by resistance measurements and their thickness was measured with a digital microscope on cross sections. Cyclic bending was performed to investigate mechanical properties of prepared samples as well as thermal shocks to analyse their thermal durability. Further, samples after thermal shocks underwent cyclic bending to test influence of thermal exposure on mechanical properties of the prepared samples. Changes in the test lines after the thermal and mechanical tests were assessed by resistance measurements and microscopic analysis of surface and internal structure of the test lines.

Findings

It was found that the most important factor having an impact on electrical, mechanical and thermal properties of the conductive tracks screen-printed on magnetic sheets is a type of paste used. The samples made with the paste PM-406 exhibited lower resistance because of a higher layer thickness compared to the lines printed with the paste PF-050. The PM-406 layers were revealed to be less durable to mechanical and thermal exposures. An analogical relationship was noticed for the samples made with PM-406 and PF-050 on a PEN foil after thermal shocks and cyclic bending. When magnetic sheets were used as a substrate, a bigger degree of damage was observed for the PF-050 samples, which even lost their electrical continuity after 1,000 bending cycles and thermal cycles, irrespective of their number. Some damage was also noticed in the magnetic sheet after the bending and thermal cycles.

Research limitations/implications

Further investigations are required to examine the influence of other types of thermal exposure on electrical properties of lines printed on magnetic sheets. Other types of magnetic sheets are also recommended to be investigated as substrate materials.

Practical implications

The results reported in this study can be useful among others for designers of radio frequency identification (RFID) systems, which are intended to operate in a challenging environment with strong mechanical and thermal exposures.

Originality/value

This paper contains valuable information concerning mechanical and thermal properties of conductive tracks screen-printed on magnetic sheets which can be used, i.e. for designing of reliable near field communication/high frequency (NFC/HF)-RFID tags suitable for metallic surface.
Commentary on “The bounds of liberty: lessons learnt from treating a man with alcohol use disorder, autism and learning disability”
Authors: Brown Hilary
Published: November 2017

Purpose

In commenting on the issues raised by Drakeet al.the purpose of this paper is to discuss three areas of practice: assessing capacity in the presence of intransigence and/or rigid patterns of thinking and behaviour; understanding addiction in this context; and identifying “reasonable adjustments” in the way addiction and substance misuse services are provided to this client group.

Design/methodology/approach

As well as discussing the issues raised by Drakeet al.the commentary refers to a serious case review exploring similar issues.

Findings

Both the case discussed by Drakeet al.and the serious case review draw attention to the importance of identifying “reasonable adjustments” to current practice.

Research limitations/implications

While the implications of the cases discussed are very significant, further work quantifying the scope of the problems identified would be very useful.

Practical implications

The 1995 Disability Discrimination Act (UK) requires public services to make “reasonable adjustments” in order for people with a range of disabilities to access their services on an equitable basis. This paper identifies what some of those areas of difficulty might be.

Originality/value

This is a relatively new area of work and expertise in both mainstream addiction and specialist intellectual disability and mental health services needs to be developed in order for them to provide more coherent and accessible programmes to individuals.
Secrets and disclosure in donor conception
Authors: Frith Lucy , Blyth Eric , Crawshaw Marilyn , van den Akker Olga
Published: November 2017

This article considers the disclosure, sharing and exchange of information on being donor conceived within families, drawing on data from a study undertaken with donor‐conceived adults registered withUKDonor Link (a voluntaryDNA‐linking register). This paper considers the narratives of how respondents found out they were donor‐conceived and what events triggered disclosure of this information. This paper then goes on to examine the role secrecy played in their family life and uses the concept of ‘display’ to explore how secrecy affected their relationships with their immediate and extended family. Secrets are notoriously ‘leaky’ and we found complex patterns of knowing and uncertainty about whom in the family knew that the person was donor‐conceived. We argue that what is kept secret and from whom provides insights into the multifaceted web of social relationships that can be created by donor‐conception, and how knowledge can be managed and controlled in attempts to display and maintain family narratives of biogenetic connection.
Macroeconomic effects of government spending in China
Authors: Wang Xin , Wen Yi
Published: November 2017

Government spending plays an important role in determining economic performances in China. Its macroeconomic effects are analysed in this paper. We show that government spending in China Granger‐causes output, consumption and investment booms as well as inflation, and has a multiplier larger than 1. The large multiplier effects are found not only in aggregated time‐series data but also in panel data at the provincial level. We also provide a theoretical model and Monte Carlo analysis to rationalize our empirical findings. Our theoretical and Monte Carlo analyses support the large multiplier found in China but also suggest that government spending is not necessarily a free lunch in spite of the large multiplier effects.
Disentangling managerial incentives from a dynamic perspective: The role of stock grants
Authors: Hili Amal , Laussel Didier , Long Ngo Van
Published: November 2017

We analyse the optimal contract between a risk‐averse manager and the initial shareholders in a two‐period model where the manager's investment effort, carried out in period 1, and his or her current effort, carried out in period 2, both impact the second‐period profit, so that it may be difficult to disentangle the incentives for these two types of effort. We show that stock grants play different roles according to whether the signal of investment effort is less noisy, or noisier, than that of current effort. We determine simultaneously the optimal stock grants and the optimal restrictions on sales of shares.
Rational But Poor? An Explanation for Rural Economic Livelihood Strategy
Authors: Dzanku Fred Mawunyo
Published: November 2017

Using panel data for six rural sub‐Saharan Africa countries, this article tests two hypotheses: (i) household‐specific staple food price bands resulting from market failures in the presence of liquidity constraints and rainfed agriculture induces rural household specialisation in food crops as an economic livelihood strategy; (ii) specialisation in food crops yields inferior welfare than diversification, and keeps households trapped in poverty. The results lend strong support to both hypotheses, reinforcing the need for public investment in rural infrastructure in order to encourage household livelihood diversification for improved welfare.
The Effect of Alcohol‐Based Hand Sanitizer Vapors on Evidential Breath Alcohol Test Results
Authors: Strawsine Ellen , Lutmer Brian
Published: November 2017

This study was undertaken to determine if the application of alcohol‐based hand sanitizers (ABHSs) to the hands of a breath test operator will affect the results obtained on evidential breath alcohol instruments (EBTs). This study obtained breath samples on three different EBTs immediately after application of either gel or foam ABHS to the operator's hands. A small, but significant, number of initial analyses (13 of 130, 10%) resulted in positive breath alcohol concentrations, while 41 samples (31.5%) resulted in a status code. These status codes were caused by ethanol vapors either in the room air or their inhalation by the subject, thereby causing a mouth alcohol effect. Replicate subject samples did not yield any consecutive positive numeric results. As ABHS application can cause a transitory mouth alcohol effect via inhalation of ABHS vapors, EBT operators should forego the use of ABHS in the 15 min preceding subject testing.
Location of Artifacts Deposited by the Blow Fly Lucilia cuprina After Feeding on Human Blood at Simulated Indoor Crime Scenes
Authors: Durdle Annalisa , Verdon Timothy J. , Mitchell Robert John , van Oorschot Roland A. H.
Published: November 2017

Human DNA profiles can be obtained from fly artifacts (feces and regurgitant) when a fly has been feeding on biological material, sometimes 2 years after deposition. Morphological similarity between artifacts and spots of unaltered biological material make it difficult to distinguish between them, and presumptive and confirmatory forensic tests are unreliable in making the distinction. Knowing possible artifact locations will assist investigators in recognizing where DNA contamination might occur. Flies were released into a house with human blood available under a variety of different climatic and lighting conditions. The location of flies and artifacts was recorded after 72 h. It was found flies may move toward warm or well‐lit areas and deposit artifacts there, but artifacts were predominantly located around food sources and were often found in low positions. Factors such as ambient temperature, and the proximity of light and food sources, had an impact on where artifacts were deposited.
Skills among young and elderly laypersons during simulated dispatcher assisted CPR and after CPR training
Authors: Nebsbjerg M. A. , Rasmussen S. E. , Bomholt K. B. , Krogh L. Q. , Krogh K. , Povlsen J. A. , Riddervold I. S. , Grøfte T. , Kirkegaard H. , Løfgren B.
Published: November 2017

Background

Dispatcher assisted cardiopulmonary resuscitation (DA‐CPR) increase the rate of bystander CPR. The aim of the study was to compare the performance of DA‐CPR and attainable skills following CPR training between young and elderly laypersons.

Methods

Volunteer laypersons (young: 18–40 years; elderly: > 65 years) participated. Single rescuer CPR was performed in a simulated DA‐CPR cardiac arrest scenario and after CPR training. Data were obtained from a manikin and from video recordings. The primary endpoint was chest compression depth.

Results

Overall, 56 young (median age: 26, years since last CPR training: 6) and 58 elderly (median age: 72, years since last CPR training: 26.5) participated. Young laypersons performed deeper (mean (SD): 56 (14) mm vs. 39 (19) mm, P < 0.001) and faster (median (25th–75th percentile): 107 (97–112) per min vs. 84 (74–107) per min, P < 0.001) chest compressions compared to elderly. Young laypersons had shorter time to first compression (mean (SD): 71 (11) seconds vs. 104 (38) seconds, P < 0.001) and less hands‐off time (median (25th–75th percentile): 0 (0–1) seconds vs. 5 (2–10) seconds, P < 0.001) than elderly. After CPR training chest compressions were performed with a depth (mean (SD): 64 (8) mm vs. 50 (14) mm, P < 0.001) and rate (mean (SD): 111 (11) per min vs. 93 (18) per min, P < 0.001) for young and elderly laypersons respectively.

Conclusion

Despite long CPR retention time for both groups, elderly laypersons had longer retention time, and performed inadequate DA‐CPR compared to young laypersons. Following CPR training the attainable CPR level was of acceptable quality for both young and elderly laypersons.
Effects of Nicotine on Alcohol Drinking in Female Mice Selectively Bred for High or Low Alcohol Preference
Authors: Weera Marcus M. , Fields Molly A. , Tapp Danielle N. , Grahame Nicholas J. , Chester Julia A.
Published: November 2017

Background

Studies show that repeated nicotine use associates with high alcohol consumption in humans and that nicotine exposure sometimes increases alcohol consumption in animal models. However, the relative roles of genetic predisposition to high alcohol consumption, the alcohol drinking patterns, and the timing of nicotine exposure both with respect to alcohol drinking and developmental stage remain unclear. The studies here manipulated all these variables, using mice selectively bred for differences in free‐choice (FC) alcohol consumption to elucidate the role of genetics and nicotine exposure in alcohol consumption behaviors.

Methods

In Experiments 1 and 2, we assessed the effects of repeated nicotine (0, 0.5, or 1.5 mg/kg) injections immediately before binge‐like (drinking‐in‐the‐dark; Experiment 1) or during FC alcohol access (Experiment 2) on these alcohol drinking behaviors (immediately after injections and during re‐exposure to alcohol access 14 days later) in adult high‐ (HAP2) and low‐alcohol‐preferring (LAP2) female mice (co‐exposure model). In Experiments 3 and 4, we assessed the effects of repeated nicotine (0, 0.5, or 1.5 mg/kg) injections 14 days prior to binge‐like and FC alcohol access on these alcohol drinking behaviors in adolescent HAP2 and LAP2 female mice (Experiment 3) or adult HAP2 female mice (Experiment 4).

Results

In Experiment 1, we found that repeated nicotine (0.5 and 1.5 mg/kg) and alcohol co‐exposure significantly increased binge‐like drinking behavior in HAP2 but not LAP2 mice during the re‐exposure phase after a 14‐day abstinence period. In Experiment 2, 1.5 mg/kg nicotine injections significantly reduced FC alcohol intake and preference in the third hour postinjection in HAP2 but not LAP2 mice. No significant effects of nicotine treatment on binge‐like or FC alcohol drinking were observed in Experiments 3 and 4.

Conclusions

These results show that the temporal parameters of nicotine and alcohol exposure, pattern of alcohol access, and genetic predisposition for alcohol preference influence nicotine's effects on alcohol consumption. These findings in selectively bred mice suggest that humans with a genetic history of alcohol use disorders may be more vulnerable to develop nicotine and alcohol co‐use disorders.
Risk factors for falls among older Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in urban and regional communities
Authors: Lukaszyk Caroline , Radford Kylie , Delbaere Kim , Ivers Rebecca , Rogers Kris , Sherrington Catherine , Tiedemann Anne , Coombes Julieann , Daylight Gail , Draper Brian , Broe Tony
Published: November 2017

Objective

To examine associations between fall risk factors identified previously in other populations and falls among Aboriginal people aged 60 years and older, living in New South Wales, Australia.

Methods

Interviews were conducted with older Aboriginal people in five urban and regional communities. Associations between past falls and 22 fall predictor variables were examined using linear and multiple regression analyses.

Results

Of the 336 participants, 80 people (24%) reported at least one fall in the past year, and 34 (10%) reported two or more falls. Participants had an increased fall risk if they were female; used three or more medications; had arthritis, macular degeneration, depression, history of stroke; were unable to do their own housework; or were unable to do their own shopping.

Conclusion

Falls were experienced by one‐quarter of study participants. Fall risk factors identified for older Aboriginal people appear to be similar to those identified in the general population. Understanding of fall risk factors may assist with the development of appropriate and effective community‐led fall prevention programs.
Efficacy and safety of different regimens for primary open‐angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension: a systematic review and network meta‐analysis
Authors: Li Fei , Huang Wenbin , Zhang Xiulan
Published: November 2017

Purpose

To assess the efficacy and safety of different regimens, including monotherapy and double therapy, for primary open‐angle glaucoma (POAG) or ocular hypertension.

Methods

We searched PubMed, EMBASE and clinicaltrials.gov for studies that fit our inclusion criteria in this network meta‐analysis. Randomized controlled trials that report data on efficacy and safety of medications for POAG or ocular hypertension are included. Data on intra‐ocular pressure (IOP) lowering effect and incidence of adverse events including hyperaemia and ocular discomfort were extracted and used in mixed‐comparison analysis.

Results

This study includes 72 randomized trials. Data were available on 12 medical treatments of POAG or ocular hypertension. Of 66 possible comparisons of outcome efficacy, 15 treatments were compared directly. Compared to prostaglandin analogues (PGA), beta‐blockers (BB) showed relatively weaker ability to lower IOP, followed by α2‐adrenergic agonists (AA) and carbonic anhydrase inhibitors (CAI). For dual therapy, regimens composed of a combination of PGA with another treatment demonstrated more powerful IOP lowering efficacy, while the combination of two non‐PGA drugs had lower efficacy in controlling IOP than PGA alone. There was no statistical significance in combinations that did not include PGA on efficacy of IOP control. In terms of tolerance, PGA alone leads to more severe hyperaemia than any other monotherapy regimen, while BBs have the lowest effect on the incidence of hyperaemia. Most dual therapy regimens containing PGA also lead to serious hyperaemia, with the exception of PGA + AA. Compared to regimens containing PGA, those with BB are less likely to cause hyperaemia.

Conclusion

Our network meta‐analysis showed that PGAs provide best IOP lowering effect among all the monotherapy regimen. Combination of PGA and other category of drugs leads to better IOP decrease. Combination of BB and another non‐PGA drug may have less ocular side‐effects than PGA alone.
A Configurational Perspective on the Theory of Planned Behaviour to Understand Employees' Change‐Supportive Intentions
Authors: Straatmann Tammo , Rothenhöfer Lisa Maria , Meier Alexander , Mueller Karsten
Published: November 2017

This study aims to deepen the understanding of the psychological processes involved in the formation of change‐supportive intentions by adopting a configurational perspective. To investigate potential configurations in relevant psychological processes suggested by the theory of planned behaviour (Ajzen, ), classical linear analytic methods are supplemented by the application of two case‐centred methods: latent profile analysis (LPA) and fuzzy set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA). The study uses data from two measurement times drawing on employees of a city council (t1: N = 1,589; t2: N = 1,524) undergoing complex and continuous organisational changes. While the case‐centred results from LPA and fsQCA generally accord well with the results from regression analysis, they consistently highlight the relevance of configurational patterns. Specifically, LPA and fsQCA reveal that different combinations of change‐related attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived behavioural control relate to the presence or absence of high supportive intentions. These results provide valuable insights for fostering employees' change‐supportive intentions. Moreover, the present study demonstrates that case‐centred analytical methods can essentially enrich research and theory‐building in change management as well as in the field of behavioural intention formation in general.
Asthma and lung function in adulthood after a viral wheezing episode in early childhood
Authors: Backman K. , Ollikainen H. , Piippo‐Savolainen E. , Nuolivirta K. , Korppi M.
Published: November 2017

Background

Viral aetiology of infection has a significant role in the long‐term outcome of early‐childhood wheezing.

Objective

This study examines asthma and lung function in adulthood after early‐childhood wheezing induced by respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and rhinovirus (RV).

Methods

A total of 100 children were hospitalized for a wheezing episode at less than 24 months of age from 1992 to 1993 in Kuopio University Hospital (Finland). Adenovirus, influenza A and B virus, parainfluenza (1‐3) virus, and RSV were tested on admission using antigen detection and antibody assays, and RSV and RV were tested by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). In 2010, 49 cases and 60 population controls attended a follow‐up study, which included spirometry with bronchodilation test and fractionally exhaled nitric oxide (FENO) measurements.

Results

Current asthma was present in 64% of the cases with RV‐induced wheezing (OR 17.0 [95%CI 3.9‐75.3] vs controls), in 43% of the cases with RSV‐induced wheezing episode (6.1 [1.5‐24.9] vs controls), and in 12% of the controls. The RV group showed significantly higher mean FENO values than the RSV group and controls. RV‐positive cases had lower MEF50 before bronchodilation and higher MEF50, FEV1, and FEV1/FVC bronchodilation responses than controls. RSV‐positive cases had lower FVC than controls before bronchodilation.

Conclusion

Cases with RV‐ and RSV‐induced early‐childhood wheezing had increased risk for asthma in adulthood, and RV‐positive cases had significantly higher FENO values than RSV‐positive cases and controls. Compared to controls, RV‐positive cases showed more bronchial reactivity, and RSV‐positive cases showed lower FVC before bronchodilation in lung function testing.

Clinical relevance

Children with RV‐ or RSV‐induced wheezing in early childhood have an increased risk for asthma and lung function abnormalities in adulthood.
Responsible Research and Innovation and Its Implications for China
Authors: Yang Panpan , Han Bing
Published: November 2017

Responsible research and innovation (RRI) represents a new evolving approach to governing research and innovation that takes into account potential impacts on the environment and society. Most published studies on RRI focus on the social benefits of research and innovation through examining RRI's definitions and approaches for its implementation. In contrast, the present study addresses the influence of RRI on economic growth, and discusses the situations in which RRI will benefit economies. Our study finds that for its implementation to be successful, RRI needs to meet certain conditions, and that its implementation is not always beneficial to economic growth. To achieve a better result from RRI as part of an innovation policy, each country should balance the push and pull power of RRI to make sure that it becomes a building block rather than a stumbling block for innovation, economic growth and social welfare. To assure that RRI can be successfully implemented, China needs to strengthen and improve the participation mechanisms for stakeholders in major scientific and technological innovative activities.
Early contributions to infants’ mental rotation abilities
Authors: Constantinescu Mihaela , Moore David S. , Johnson Scott P. , Hines Melissa
Published: November 2017

Some cognitive abilities exhibit reliable gender differences, with females outperforming males in specific aspects of verbal ability, and males showing an advantage on certain spatial tasks. Among these cognitive gender differences, differences in mental rotation are the most robust, and appear to be present even in infants. A large body of animal research suggests that gonadal hormones, particularly testosterone, during early development could contribute to this gender difference in mental rotation. Also, substantial evidence supports an influence of socialization on mental rotation performance. The present study investigated the relationship of two types of factors, early postnatal testosterone exposure and parental attitudes about gender, to mental rotation performance in 61 healthy infants (29 males, 32 females). We measured salivary testosterone at two time points: 1–2.5 months of age and 5–6 months of age. Infants’ mental rotation performance and parents’ attitudes about gender were assessed at 5–6 months of age. As predicted, testosterone concentrations were significantly higher in boys than girls in early infancy (d = 0.54), and boys performed significantly better than girls on mental rotation (d = 0.64). A significant positive correlation between testosterone at age 1–2.5 months and mental rotation was found only in boys (r = 0.50, p = .01). A significant negative correlation between parents’ gender‐stereotypical attitudes and mental rotation performance was found only in girls (r = −.57, p = .002). These findings suggest that the early postnatal testosterone surge (also known as “mini‐puberty”) may have organizational influences on mental rotation performance in boys, and that parents may influence their daughters’ mental rotation abilities beginning very early in life.
Amygdala sub‐regional functional connectivity predicts anxiety in children with reading disorder
Authors: Davis Katie , Margolis Amy E. , Thomas Lauren , Huo Zhiyong , Marsh Rachel
Published: November 2017

Pediatric reading disorder (RD) is associated with an increased risk of anxiety symptoms, yet understudied are the neurobiological factors that might underlie anxiety in children with RD. Given the role of the amygdala in anxiety, we assessed resting state functional connectivity of amygdalar subregions in children with RD to identify functional correlates of anxiety and reading impairment. We collected resting state functional MRI data from 22 children with RD and 21 typically developing (TD) children, ages 7 to 13 years. We assessed group differences in resting state functional connectivity (RSFC) from amygdalar subregions. Associations of amygdalar RSFC and volume with reading impairment, reading fluency scores, and anxiety symptoms were explored. Relative to TD children, those with RD showed increased RSFC from amygdalar nuclei to medial prefrontal cortex. Across all subjects, RSFC from right centromedial amygdala to left medial prefrontal cortex positively predicted both reading impairment and self‐reported anxiety, and anxiety mediated the relationship between RSFC and reading impairment. These findings are consistent with amygdalar functional abnormalities in pediatric anxiety disorders, suggesting a common neurobiological mechanism underlying anxiety and reading impairment in children. Thus, aberrant patterns of RSFC from amygdalar subregions may serve as potential targets for the treatment of anxiety symptoms that typically co‐occur with RD. Our dimensional approach to studying anxiety in RD revealed how amygdalar connectivity underlies anxiety and reading impairment across a continuum from normal to abnormal.
Reverse production effect: children recognize novel words better when they are heard rather than produced
Authors: Zamuner Tania S. , Strahm Stephanie , Morin‐Lessard Elizabeth , Page Michael P.A.
Published: November 2017

This research investigates the effect of production on 4.5‐ to 6‐year‐old children's recognition of newly learned words. In Experiment 1, children were taught four novel words in a produced or heard training condition during a brief training phase. In Experiment 2, children were taught eight novel words, and this time training condition was in a blocked design. Immediately after training, children were tested on their recognition of the trained novel words using a preferential looking paradigm. In both experiments, children recognized novel words that were produced and heard during training, but demonstrated better recognition for items that were heard. These findings are opposite to previous results reported in the literature with adults and children. Our results show that benefits of speech production for word learning are dependent on factors such as task complexity and the developmental stage of the learner.
Association of oxidative stress with clinical characteristics in patients with rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Kardeş Sinan , Karagülle Mine , Durak İlker , Avcı Aslıhan , Karagülle Müfit Z.
Published: November 2017

Background

Few studies examining the association between oxidative stress and clinical parameters or disease activity in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) are available. Therefore, the objective of this study was to test whether oxidative stress has any association with clinical parameters and disease activity in patients with RA.

Materials and methods

In this post hoc cross‐sectional study, 45 patients with RA treated with traditional disease‐modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) ± low‐dose glucocorticoids ± nonsteroidal analgesics for at least 3 months were analysed. Oxidative stress parameters were malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), antioxidant potential (AOP) and nonenzymatic superoxide radical scavenger activity (NSSA). Clinical parameters were pain, patient global assessment, physician global assessment, Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ), and disease activity score (DAS28).

Results

Plasma NSSA levels were significantly inversely correlated with tender joints count (r = −.304; P = .042), swollen joints count (r = −.342; P = .021) and DAS28 (r = −.396; P = .009). There were no significant correlations between MDA/SOD/AOP and any of clinical parameters or DAS28 (P > .05 for all). Multiple regression analysis revealed that NSSA was an independent variable of DAS28 (β=−.243, P = .016).

Conclusion

The preliminary results demonstrate that plasma NSSA levels were inversely correlated with tender and swollen joints count and DAS28 and that NSSA was independently associated with DAS28, in patients with RA treated with traditional DMARDs; and provide initial support that NSSA may be used as a biomarker of disease activity in patients with RA.