bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tone identification behavior in Rattus norvegicus: muscarinic receptor blockage lowers responsiveness in nontarget selective neurons, while nicotinic receptor blockage selectively lowers target responses
Authors: Carpenter‐Hyland Ezekiel P. , Griffeth Jackson , Bunting Kristopher , Terry Alvin , Vazdarjanova Almira , Blake David T.
Published: May 2017

Learning to associate a stimulus with reinforcement causes plasticity in primary sensory cortex. Neural activity caused by the associated stimulus is paired with reinforcement, but population analyses have not found a selective increase in response to that stimulus. Responses to other stimuli increase as much as, or more than, responses to the associated stimulus. Here, we applied population analysis at a new time point and additionally evaluated whether cholinergic receptor blockers interacted with the plastic changes in cortex. Three days of tone identification behavior caused responsiveness to increase broadly across primary auditory cortex, and target responses strengthened less than overall responsiveness. In pharmacology studies, behaviorally impairing doses of selective acetylcholine receptor blockers were administered during behavior. Neural responses were evaluated on the following day, while the blockers were absent. The muscarinic group, blocked by scopolamine, showed lower responsiveness and an increased response to the tone identification target that exceeded both the 3‐day control group and task‐naïve controls. Also, a selective increase in the late phase of the response to the tone identification stimulus emerged. Nicotinic receptor antagonism, with mecamylamine, more modestly lowered responses the following day and lowered target responses more than overall responses. Control acute studies demonstrated the muscarinic block did not acutely alter response rates, but the nicotinic block did. These results lead to the hypothesis that the decrease in the proportion of the population spiking response that is selective for the target may be explained by the balance between effects modulated by muscarinic and nicotinic receptors.
An Instructional Module on Mokken Scale Analysis
Authors: Wind Stefanie A.
Published: May 2017

Mokken scale analysis (MSA) is a probabilistic‐nonparametric approach to item response theory (IRT) that can be used to evaluate fundamental measurement properties with less strict assumptions than parametric IRT models. This instructional module provides an introduction to MSA as a probabilistic‐nonparametric framework in which to explore measurement quality, with an emphasis on its application in the context of educational assessment. The module describes both dichotomous and polytomous formulations of the MSA model. Examples of the application of MSA to educational assessment are provided using data from a multiple‐choice physical science assessment and a rater‐mediated writing assessment.
A cell adhesive peptide from tropoelastin promotes sequential cell attachment and spreading via distinct receptors
Authors: Lee Pearl , Yeo Giselle C. , Weiss Anthony S.
Published: May 2017

Tropoelastin is the dominant monomer that assembles to form elastin, which confers elasticity to vertebrate elastic tissues including skin, arteries, and lungs. Tropoelastin interacts with cells through cell surface receptors including integrins and glycosaminoglycans (GAGs). As the region 17–18 is recognized as a key region in cell attachment and spreading, we utilized C‐terminal truncated tropoelastin constructs containing dissected sections of domain 18. We mapped a cell‐interactive sequence of tropoelastin to domain 17 and the first six amino acids (aa) of domain 18. Further delineation identified a 21‐residue sequence (Peptide 302–322) which promoted cell attachment and spreading indistinguishable from that to N18, a construct encompassing the full domains 17–18. Alanine substitution of the lysines at positions 11 and 14 in Peptide 302–322 effectively abolished cell binding. This reliance on lysines pointed to a role for GAGs, which was assessed by heparan sulfate inhibition, leading to 85.9 ± 4.2% decreased cell binding, while inhibition of integrins using ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid did not affect attachment. In contrast, selective antibody blocking of the integrin αv family prevented cell spreading by 92.5 ± 8.9%. We propose a two‐step mechanism by which cell interactions occur at this central region of tropoelastin: initially, cell adhesion is mediated by GAGs, which contact the lysine residues within the target sequence, and subsequently facilitate cell spreading modulated by integrins, specifically αvβ3 and αvβ5. We conclude that this region comprises a tropoelastin‐derived, cell‐interactive sequence that independently mediates potent cell binding and spreading via sequential recognition of GAG and integrin cell surface receptors.
Structural and biochemical insights into the 2′‐O‐methylation of pyrimidines 34 in tRNA
Authors: Pang Panjiao , Deng Xiangyu , Wang Zhong , Xie Wei
Published: May 2017

tRNA molecules undergo extensive modifications during their maturation and these modifications play important cellular roles. TrmL is a tRNA‐modification enzyme that catalyzes the transfer of a methyl group to the 2′‐hydroxyl group of the pyrimidines at the wobble position 34 in two tRNALeu isoacceptors, but the mechanism remains elusive. In this study, we determined the crystal structure of TrmL from Thermus thermophilus (TtTrmL) to 1.7 Å. The enzyme contains only the conserved minimal SPOUT fold, but displays distinct biochemical behavior from its Escherichia coli counterpart, EcTrmL. Interestingly, a fortuitous ligand of 5′‐methylthioadenosine was consistently found at the SAM‐binding pocket in the crystal structures, which probably came from the expression host. Both TtTrmL and EcTrmL were capable of methylating each other's tRNA substrates, but the latter exhibited much higher activity than the former. Enzymatic activity assays showed that the reaction catalyzed by TtTrmL greatly depends on the reaction pH and is also affected by salt concentration. Via sequence alignment and structural superposition, we discovered that a universally conserved glutamate residue is likely to fulfill the role of the general base for the initial proton abstraction from the 2′‐hydroxyl group of pyrimidines 34. Lastly, based on our structural and biochemical data, we proposed the dimer interface to be the tRNA‐binding site for TtTrmL.

Database

The atomic coordinates and structural factors have been deposited in the Protein Data Bank with accession number 5CO4.
Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) and brown trout (Salmo trutta) differ in their suitability as hosts for the endangered freshwater pearl mussel (Margaritifera margaritifera) in northern Fennoscandian rivers
Authors: Salonen Jouni K. , Luhta Pirkko‐Liisa , Moilanen Eero , Oulasvirta Panu , Turunen Jarno , Taskinen Jouni
Published: May 2017

European populations of the freshwater pearl mussel (FPM, Margaritifera margaritifera) have collapsed across much of the species’ geographic range and, despite many types of conservation intervention, the number of successful restoration efforts has been low. The goal of this study was to determine whether there were population‐specific differences in the suitability of Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) and brown trout (S. trutta) as hosts for the parasitic glochidium larvae of FPM. We predicted that such differences would depend on the historical occurrence of these salmonid species in FPM habitats.

We studied the potential host specificity both in the field and in laboratory by exposing salmonid fish to FPM glochidia originating from nine populations in different types of streams and rivers within three large river basins in northern Fennoscandia.

The exposures showed remarkable population‐specific differences in the suitability of host species. In large main channels, previously colonised by Atlantic salmon but mostly now dammed for hydropower production, the occurrence of FPM glochidia was always highest on salmon. Moreover, glochidia on salmon were often larger than the conspecifics on brown trout. Conversely, in small tributaries with no salmon history, brown trout was generally the best, or the only suitable, host for FPM.

The adaptation of certain FPM populations to salmon is a highly significant finding, which offers — together with the hydropower dam construction and the salmonid stocking practices that often favour brown trout — an explanation for the collapse of FPM populations living in former Atlantic salmon rivers.

This study illustrates the indirect but substantial effects that dams and changes in fish communities may induce, and emphasises the need to determine the most suitable host species for each FPM population in order to inform conservation and management actions.
Long and branched polyamines are required for maintenance of the ribosome, tRNAHis and tRNATyr in Thermus thermophilus cells at high temperatures
Authors: Nakashima Misa , Yamagami Ryota , Tomikawa Chie , Ochi Yuki , Moriya Toshiyuki , Asahara Haruichi , Fourmy Dominique , Yoshizawa Satoko , Oshima Tairo , Hori Hiroyuki
Published: May 2017

Thermus thermophilus is an extremely thermophilic eubacterium that produces various polyamines. Aminopropylagmatine ureohydrolase (SpeB) and SAM decarboxylase‐like protein 1 (SpeD1) are involved in the biosynthesis of spermidine from arginine. Because long and branched polyamines in T. thermophilus are synthesized from spermidine, the speB and speD1 gene‐deleted strains (ΔspeB and ΔspeD1, respectively) cannot synthesize long and branched polyamines. Although neither strain grew at high temperatures (>75°C) in minimal medium, both strains survived at 80°C when they were cultured at 70°C until the mid‐log phase and then shifted to 80°C. We therefore prepared the ΔspeB and ΔspeD1 cells using this culture method. Microscopic analysis showed that both strains can survive for 10 h after the temperature shift. Although the modification levels of 2′‐O‐methylguanosine at position 18, N7‐methylguanosine at position 46, 5‐methyluridine at position 54 and N1‐methyladenosine at position 58 in the class I tRNA from both strains were normal, amounts of tRNATyr, tRNAHis, rRNAs and 70S ribosomes were decreased after the temperature shift. Furthermore, in vivo protein synthesis in both strains was completely lost 10 h after the temperature shift. Thus, long and branched polyamines are required for at least the maintenance of 70S ribosome and some tRNA species at high temperatures.
The impact of clinical practice on the outcome of central venous access devices in children with haemophilia
Authors: Khair K. , Ranta S. , Thomas A. , Lindvall K. ,   PedNet study group
Published: May 2017

Introduction

Central venous access devices facilitate home treatment in boys with haemophilia. These are usually fully implanted lines, referred to as ports. Caregivers are taught to manage the port using sterile techniques and maintaining patency by flushing with saline or heparin solution. National and international guidelines for the home care of ports are lacking.

Aim

To evaluate if infection or occlusion rates differ between home care regimens used for ports in children with haemophilia.

Methods

Children with ports were identified from the PedNet registry. Data on the homecare policy were acquired from each centre. To ensure a complete data set for each port, only ports that had been removed were included in the study. Three care groups were defined: ‘aseptic non touch technique’, ‘sterile technique’ and ‘fully sterile technique’. Outcomes within and between the groups were analysed.

Results

A total of 240 children with 352 ports were studied. Insertion occurred at a median age of 1.32 years. The median port duration was 2.94 years with a total of 215 688 port days in children without and 183 852 in children with inhibitors. Infection was the most common cause of port removal (34%); there was no significant difference with infection as reason for removal between the different care groups. Occlusion was not more frequent in centres that did not use heparin.

Conclusion

Use of sterile gloves and gowns did not reduce the risk of port infection. Using less stringent sterile techniques for accessing ports is easier for caregivers and in addition may have health economic benefits.
Impact of a product‐specific reference standard for the measurement of a PEGylated rFVIII activity: the Swiss Multicentre Field Study
Authors: Bulla O. , Poncet A. , Alberio L. , ASMIS L. M. , Gähler A. , Graf L. , Nagler M. , Studt J.‐D. , Tsakiris D. A. , Fontana P.
Published: May 2017

Introduction

Measuring factor VIII (FVIII) activity can be challenging when it has been modified, such as when FVIII is pegylated to increase its circulating half‐life. Use of a product‐specific reference standard may help avoid this issue.

Aim

Evaluate the impact of using a product‐specific reference standard for measuring the FVIII activity of BAX 855 – a pegylated FVIII – in eight of Switzerland's main laboratories.

Methods

Factor VIII‐deficient plasma, spiked with five different concentrations of BAX 855, plus a control FVIII sample, was sent to the participating laboratories. They measured FVIII activity by using either with a one‐stage (OSA) or the chromogenic assay (CA) against their local or a product‐specific reference standard.

Results

When using a local reference standard, there was an overestimation of BAX 855 activity compared to the target concentrations, both with the OSA and CA. The use of a product‐specific reference standard reduced this effect: mean recovery ranged from 127.7% to 213.5% using the OSA with local reference standards, compared to 110% to 183.8% with a product‐specific reference standard, and from 146.3% to 182.4% using the CA with local reference standards compared to 72.7% to 103.7% with a product‐specific reference standard.

Conclusion

In this in vitro study, the type of reference standard had a major impact on the measurement of BAX 855 activity. Evaluation was more accurate and precise when using a product‐specific reference standard.
Assessment of mode of delivery and predictors of emergency caesarean section among women living withHIVin a matched‐pair setting with women from the general population in Denmark, 2002−2014
Authors: Ørbæk M , Thorsteinsson K , Helleberg M , Moseholm E , Katzenstein TL , Storgaard M , Johansen IS , Pedersen G , Weis N , Lebech A‐M
Published: May 2017

Objectives

We aimed to assess mode of delivery and predictors of emergency caesarean section (EmCS) in women living withHIV(WLWH) in a matched‐pair setting with women from the general population (WGP) in Denmark. Further, we analysed birth plan inWLWH.

Methods

AllWLWHgiving birth to live‐born children from 2002 to 2014 were included in the study. Data were retrieved from medical records and national registries.WLWHwere matched 1:5 by age, birth year, parity and ethnicity toWGP. Multivariate logistic regression was used to estimate predictors.

Results

We included 389WLWHand 1945WGPin the study. At delivery, allWLWHwere on antiretroviral therapy and 85.6% hadHIV RNA<40HIV‐1RNAcopies/mL. Mean age was 32.7 years [95% confidence interval (CI) 32.1–33.2 years]. Mode of delivery differed significantly betweenWLWHandWGP[vaginal delivery, 33.4% versus 73.3%, respectively; elective caesarean section (ECS), 40.6% versus 9.7%, respectively; EmCS, 26% versus 17%, respectively;P< 0.0001]. Age > 40 years [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 2.3; 95%CI1.5–3.5], asphyxia (aOR3.2; 95%CI2.4–4.1), delivery during the evening and at night [aOR2.3 (95%CI1.7–3.0) andaOR2.0 (95%CI1.5–2.7), respectively], preterm delivery (aOR3.8; 95%CI2.6–5.6) and premature rupture of membranes (aOR3.0; 95%CI2.1–4.4) predicted EmCS.WLWHhad a higher risk of EmCScompared withWGP[2002–2006,aOR2.0 (95%CI1.2–3.3); 2007–2008,aOR2.9 (95%CI1.4–5.9); 2009–2014,aOR2.6 (95%CI1.7–3.9)]. After 2007, more than half ofWLWHplanned to deliver vaginally. Prior caesarean section was associated withECS(aOR11.0; 95%CI4.5–26.8). No mother‐to‐child transmission occurred.

Conclusions

Increasing numbers ofWLWHdeliver vaginally. Despite virological suppression, moreWLWHplan and deliver byECSthanWGP.WLWHhad a twofold higher risk of EmCScompared withWGP.
Calling Forth History's Mocking Doubles
Authors: Konitshek Haley
Published: May 2017

Hortense Spillers ends “Mama's Baby, Papa's Maybe” with a provocative suggestion: “Actually claiming the monstrosity (of a female with the potential to ‘name’) … ‘Sapphire’ might rewrite after all a radically different text for female empowerment.” In this article, I knead the material, representational, and performative powers operating through conceptually separate and yet deeply entangled contested terrains: (1) the “real,” or the scene of “actual mutilation,” whose high crimes against the flesh coincide with (2) the construction of the “symbolic.” Through Baradian performativity, I read Spillers's theorization on the name as an event wherein proprietary relationships, which necessarily oscillate between material/signification binaries, are called forth in historical terrain in the moment of racial address. Paying close attention to her grammar, the first half of this article tracks Spillers's movement through an undercurrent of American historical mythology that, as she demonstrates, misnames the black mother. The rest of this article then takes up to what extent certain “mocking doubles”—minstrel and/or monstrous tropes resuscitated but not redeemed or even necessarily renamed—might agitate their way toward new texts for female empowerment and the cultivation of the black mother's power to “name.”
The effect of a tooth/tongue gel and mouthwash regimen on morning oral malodour
Authors: Van der Sluijs E , Van der Weijden GA , Hennequin‐Hoenderdos NL , Slot DE
Published: May 2017

Aim

To compare the effects of a regimen consisting of a tooth/tongue gel, tongue cleaner and mouthwash with the effects of using standard fluoride dentifrice on the organoleptic oral malodour score (ORG) and volatile sulphur compounds (VSCs).

Materials and methods

A total, 66 non‐dental students participated in a 3‐week parallel, single‐blind, randomized, controlled clinical trial. The test group used a tongue cleaner, a tooth/tongue gel and mouthwash containing amine fluoride/stannous fluoride and zinc lactate as oral malodour counteractive. The control group used a standard fluoride dentifrice. Measurements were taken in the morning at baseline, at days 1, 7 and 21. The primary outcome was the ORG score. The secondary outcome, the VSC measurement, was assessed using OralChroma™ (H2S, CH3SH, (CH3)2S) and Halimeter®. Tongue coating thickness and tongue discoloration were scored. At baseline and day 21, the participants’ self‐perceptions were assessed.

Results

At day 1 for the ORG, H2S, CH3SH and Halimeter® readings, a significant decrease was observed in the test group. At day 21, the decrease in H2S and the Halimeter® outcomes were maintained for the test group, and a significant increase in tongue surface discoloration was observed. The test group evaluated their “morning breath upon awakening” as significantly better (P=.001) after 21 days.

Conclusion

A significant overnight effect on morning oral malodour was observed for most of the parameters in favour of the test group. At day 21, the effect of prolonged use was significant for H2S and the Halimeter® readings, although not for the primary ORG outcome parameter.
Efficacy and acceptance of a high‐velocity microdroplet device for interdental cleaning in gingivitis patients—A monitored, randomized controlled trial
Authors: Stauff I , Derman SHM , Barbe AG , Hoefer KC , Bizhang M , Zimmer S , Noack MJ
Published: May 2017

Objectives

To compare in a randomized clinical trial the efficacy of a high‐velocity microdroplet device for interdental cleaning vs dental floss at reducing plaque and gingivitis.

Methods

Sixty participants with an irregular interdental home cleaning regime were randomly assigned to use either a microdroplet device (n=40, test) or dental floss (n=20, control) for 4 weeks. At baseline and reassessment, the papilla bleeding index, the modified proximal plaque index and the amount of gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) were recorded. At the second appointment, participants completed a questionnaire regarding their assigned interdental cleaning option. The process quality of this investigator‐initiated trial was ensured by independent scientific observers and media representatives.

Results

Improvement in the interdental cleaning routine reduced gingivitis in both groups (P<.05). The microdroplet device was more effective at reducing plaque (P=.003). The GCF amount remained the same in both groups. Comfort of use was greater with the microdroplet device. However, self‐reported effectiveness was superior with dental floss. About 85% of participants using the microdroplet device said they would continue daily use.

Conclusion

Improving the interdental cleaning routine with the microdroplet device or dental floss reduced gingivitis and plaque in both groups. Acceptance regarding comfort of use was higher with the microdroplet device. Dental floss remained the first choice for narrow interdental spaces, yet the microdroplet device offers an effective and well‐accepted alternative for patients who fail the proper flossing routine.
Ageing is associated with brown adipose tissue remodelling and loss of white fat browning in female C57BL/6 mice
Authors: Gonçalves Leidyanne Ferreira , Machado Thaissa Queiroz , Castro‐Pinheiro Camila , de Souza Nathalia Guimaraes , Oliveira Karen Jesus , Fernandes‐Santos Caroline
Published: May 2017

Fat storage changes throughout life and affects body metabolism. Ageing impact on brown (BAT) and white adipose tissue (WAT) deserves attention, especially in females, because they are less prone to age‐induced weight gain. While in male mice the impact of ageing on adipose tissue remodelling is well characterized, the effects in female mice remain largely unclear. Thus, we investigated BAT and WAT remodelling during ageing in female C57BL/6 mice. At 3 months, body weight was 24 ± 0.3 g (mean±SD), and it increased from 6 to 9 months of age (+20%, P < 0.0001). Oral glucose tolerance test showed no disturbance of glucose metabolism. All WAT depots became heavier, and white adipocytes hypertrophied. The subcutaneous and visceral WAT had clusters of beige cells in younger mice, but they were progressively lost by ageing, indicating loss of WAT browning. Older mice had hypertrophied classic brown adipocytes that had larger cytoplasmic lipid droplets than younger mice. Pearson's correlation showed that WAT mass has a weak correlate with BAT mass, although white adipocyte diameter has a strong correlation with classic brown adipocyte size. In conclusion, our results indicate that female C57BL/6 mice have a progressive age‐dependent loss of subcutaneous and visceral WAT browning, and this process runs in parallel with BAT morphological changes towards a fat storer phenotype, independent of cycling or disturbances in glucose metabolism.
Synthesis and powder properties of titanium—Zinc phosphate white pigments
Authors: Onoda Hiroaki , Minamizawa Takahiro
Published: May 2017

Photocatalytically active titanium dioxide and zinc oxide are used as a white pigment for cosmetics, leading to decomposition of a certain degree of sebum on the skin upon exposure to the ultraviolet radiation in sunlight. Herein, as novel white pigments for use in cosmetics, titanium‐zinc phosphates were prepared from titanium sulfate, zinc sulfates, and phosphoric acid. The chemical composition, powder properties, photocatalytic activity, color phase, smoothness, and acid resistance of the titanium‐zinc phosphates were evaluated. Samples prepared at high titanium ratio were easy to be amorphous phase, on the other hand, samples prepared at high zinc ratio indicated the X‐ray diffraction peaks of zinc phosphate dihydrate. The photocatalytic activity of these titanium‐zinc phosphate particles was low; thus these pigments should not induce decomposition of sebum on the skin. All samples prepared in this study exhibited high reflectance within the range of visible light. The substitution with titanium is effective to improve acid resistance of zinc phosphate white pigments.
Hydrothermal synthesis of dendritic BaTiO3 ceramic powders and its application in BaTiO3/P(VDF‐TrFE) composites
Authors: Wang Sijing , Qu Peng , Li Cheng , Liu Xiaolin
Published: May 2017

Dendritic BaTiO3 ceramic powders (d‐BT) were prepared by hydrothermal method in order to improve the dielectric properties of d‐BT/P(VDF‐TrFE) composites, in which, KOH was used as the branch‐directing agent. The effect of hydrothermal time on the branch length of d‐BT particle was mainly studied. The results showed that 1.0‐2.5 μm d‐BT particles were obtained after hydrothermal treating for 12 hours. The particle was composed of two kinds of branches, one was primary branch with about 800 nm in length and another with150‐250 nm. A d‐BT/P(VDF‐TrFE) composites were formed by solution casting, in which d‐BT powders as dielectric fillers and the composites exhibited high‐energy storage performance. Its maximum energy density reached to 9.78 J/cm3, twice as compared with pure P(VDF‐TrFE). The branches of d‐BT particles may act as key roles when the composites existed in electric field. Some branches perpendicular to the external electric field provided the increase in the breakdown strength and others parallel to the external electric field brought the enhancement of the dielectric constant, which simultaneously resulted in high energy density of the composites.
Polyborosilazane preceramic as matrix resin of high temperature adhesive for graphite bonding
Authors: Li Shuqin , Luo Yongming , Wang Linhao , Xu Caihong
Published: May 2017

In this study, a modified high temperature adhesive based on polyborosilazane preceramic was developed for joining graphite. The properties of adhesive as well as bonding performance of both directly cured joints and calcined joints were investigated. The results showed that the shear strength reached the highest value 13.6 MPa after calcination at 1100°C due to the formation of heat‐resistant ceramic phases and solidification of molten species during joining process. Besides, the compressive shear strength of cured adhesive without posttreatment was kept above 6 MPa during test from RT to 1100°C, which made it possible applied directly in practical high temperature environment.
The public’s perception of the role of community pharmacists in Wales
Authors: Kember Joanne , Hodson Karen , James Delyth H
Published: May 2017

Objective

To investigate the general public’s perceptions of the community pharmacist’s (CP) role in Wales by exploring understanding, awareness of services provided and potential interventions for promoting the role of CPs.

Methods

Qualitative methodology using focus group (FG) discussions exploring opinions, facilitated by a moderator (pharmacist) and an assistant. Topics discussed included the following: what a CP does; reasons for visiting; from whom they seek advice on medicines or lifestyle issues; use of traditional and newer services and promotion of services. The groups, totalling 32 participants, represented non-users and users of pharmacy services, that is pupils from a local secondary school (x1 group), people from the local community (x3) and patients plus carers from a Parkinson’s disease group (x1). FG discussions were recorded and transcribed verbatim, and analysis was undertaken to identify themes.

Key findings

Traditional dispensing and supply of medicines roles were clearly recognised, but poor awareness of the newer services emerged, particularly in public health roles. CP’s professionalism was acknowledged, but there was confusion over where they ‘fit’ within the National Health Service or with General Practitioners, with concerns or misconceptions raised over the impact of commercialism on professionalism.

Conclusions

Based on these findings, the public is accepting of the extended role of CPs and would engage with CPs for a wider range of services. However, there is a lack of awareness of what public health services are available. Considerable work is needed to increase public awareness, during the strategic development of these services in Wales.
Aluminum nitride‐single walled carbon nanotube nanocomposite with superior electrical and thermal conductivities
Authors: Chakravarty Amrita , Singh Ravindra , Roy Sudakshina , Chowdhury Ujjal , Basu Sumantra , Biswas Sampad Kumar
Published: May 2017

Development of aluminum nitride (AlN)‐single walled carbon nanotube (SWCNT) ceramic‐matrix composite containing 1‐6 vol% SWCNT by hot pressing has been reported in this article. The composites containing 6 vol% SWCNT are dense (~99% relative density) and show high dc electrical conductivity (200 Sm−1) and thermal conductivity (62 Wm−1K−1) at room temperature. SWCNTs contain mostly metallic variety tubes obtained by controlled processing of the pristine tubes before incorporation into the ceramic matrix. Raman spectroscopy and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) of the fracture surface of the samples show the excellent survivability of the SWCNTs even after high‐temperature hot pressing. The results indicate the possibility of preparation of AlN nanocomposite for use in plasma devices and electromagnetic shielding.
Health professionals’ personal behaviours hindering health promotion: A study of nurses who smoke
Authors: Mujika Agurtzane , Arantzamendi María , Lopez‐Dicastillo Olga , Forbes Angus
Published: May 2017

Aim

To explore the views of current and ex‐smoker nurses on their role in supporting patients to stop smoking.

Background

Long‐term conditions are closely linked to harmful lifestyle behaviours, including smoking and overeating. Health professionals have an important role to play in promoting healthier lifestyles. It has been described that nurses’ health behaviours may be a barrier to their health promotion practice. There is a need to gain further understanding on why nurses’ health promotion activity is influenced by their own health behaviour.

Design

A secondary analysis of qualitative data gathered in 2010 in the context of a project that aimed to develop a smoking cessation intervention for nurses.

Methods

Eleven transcripts of semi‐structured interviews conducted with nurses (current and ex‐smokers) working in one university hospital in Spain. Data were analysed using framework analysis.

Findings

Nurses who smoked engaged in social justification in terms of social norms and work stress. Only nurses who had quit smoking were able to identify the negative feelings it generated and the effect that it had on their past health promotion practice. This was expressed by ex‐smokers as an internal conflict that prevented them from supporting patients with their own habit.

Conclusion

Nurses who smoke may be inhibited as health promoters without being aware of it. Interventions that focus on helping these professionals deal with the challenges associated with these encounters are necessary if health promotion practices are to be enhanced. Targeting this conflict might also work to improve their lifestyle, which would expand the potential impact to professionals’ own health.
Health, workforce characteristics, quality of life and intention to leave: The ‘Fit for the Future’ survey of Australian nurses and midwives
Authors: Perry Lin , Xu Xiaoyue , Duffield Christine , Gallagher Robyn , Nicholls Rachel , Sibbritt David
Published: May 2017

Aim

To examine the quality of life of nurses and midwives in New South Wales, Australia and compare values with those of the Australian general population; to determine the influence of workforce, health and work life characteristics on quality of life and its effect on workforce intention to leave.

Background

Few studies have examined nurses’ and midwives’ quality of life and little is known of its effects on workforce longevity.

Design

This was a cross‐sectional survey conducted in 2014–2015.

Method

The “Fit for the Future” electronic survey, delivered to nurses and midwives, examined demographic, work and health‐related factors, which were compared with Australian general population normative values for physical and mental components of quality of life (the Short Form‐12). Univariate and multivariate logistic regression models assessed associations with workforce intention to leave.

Result

Physical and mental component scores, calculated for 4,592 nurses and midwives, revealed significantly higher physical but lower mental component scores than the general population. Physical component scores decreased with increasing age; higher scores were seen in nurses with better health indices and behaviours. Mental well‐being scores increased with increasing age; in nurses who reported job satisfaction, no work injury, sleep problems or frequent pain and non‐smokers. The odds of intention to leave decreased with increasing mental well‐being.

Conclusion

Managers and decision‐makers should heed study recommendations to implement health promotion strategies for nurses and midwives, aiming to improve mental health, specifically to promote workforce retention.
Against Pay Secrecy
Authors: Moriarty Jeffrey
Published: May 2017

Many firms keep pay secret. They do not make information about what their employees are paid available inside or outside of the firm, i.e. to other employees or to the public at large. Indeed, many firms discourage their employees from, or sanction them for, disclosing their pay. Against this, I argue that there are good moral reasons for firms to be transparent about pay. Pay transparency prevents injustice, promotes autonomy, and increases efficiency. After presenting the positive case for pay transparency, I defend it against objections, including the most common reasons firms give for keeping pay secret.
Assessing knowledge and attitudes about end of life: Evaluation of three instruments designed for adults with intellectual disability
Authors: Stancliffe R. J. , Wiese M. Y. , Read S. , Jeltes G. , Clayton J. M.
Published: May 2017

Background

This paper examines the development and psychometric characteristics of three instruments about end of life, designed for use with adults with intellectual disability (ID). Respectively, the instruments assess understanding of the concept of death, end‐of‐life planning, and fear of death.

Methods

Part 1: instruments were developed or adapted, and pilot tested with 11 adults with ID and 2 disability staff. Part 2: 39 adults with ID and 40 disability staff were assessed on all three instruments.

Results

We evaluated comprehensibility, internal consistency, inter‐rater reliability, subscale: total score correlations, missing data, and withdrawal. Psychometric findings were mostly good. Overall, 23% of participants with ID withdrew at some point. This outcome may have been as much due to assessment fatigue as to sensitive content. There were no adverse events.

Conclusions

People with ID can reliably complete assessments about end‐of‐life. Generally, each instrument was found to be comprehensible, reliable and valid.
Autonomy support in people with mild‐to‐borderline intellectual disability: Testing the Health Care Climate Questionnaire‐Intellectual Disability
Authors: Frielink Noud , Schuengel Carlo , Embregts Petri J. C. M.
Published: May 2017

Background

Autonomy support in people with intellectual disability (ID) is an important yet understudied topic. Psychometrically sound instruments are lacking. This study tested the factor structure and reliability of an instrument for assessing the extent people with intellectual disability perceive their support staff as autonomy supportive.

Method

In a single wave, 185 adults with mild‐to‐borderline intellectual disability filled in an adapted version of the Health Care Climate Questionnaire (i.e., HCCQ‐ID). Forty of them participated in a second wave to determine test‐retest‐reliability. The HCCQ‐ID consists of 15 items on a 5‐point Likert scale.

Results

The expected one‐factor structure was found. Internal consistency (α = 0.93) and test–retest reliability (r = .85) were good. The score distribution was skewed towards high satisfaction.

Conclusions

The factor structure and reliability of the HCCQ‐ID were supported for people with mild‐to‐borderline intellectual disability. Given the homogeneous factor structure and the high reliability, the number of items may be further optimized.
A Comparison of Buyback and Trade‐In Policies to Acquire Used Products for Remanufacturing
Authors: Cole Dwayne , Mahapatra Santosh , Webster Scott
Published: May 2017

We study how acquisition policies for used products as a source for a remanufactured consumer product affect system performance. We introduce a consumer choice model of new product purchase and used product return, which is consistent with the classic Bass diffusion model of sales over time. We capture new and remanufactured product sales, the evolution of the install base, and consumer return and repurchase decisions over the life cycles of new and remanufactured product. Our analyses lead to two main findings on the acquisition policies. First, if the buyback price is less than the margin of a new product, then a trade‐in policy is likely to yield higher profit than a buyback policy. Second, we show that the profitability is highest when the time lag between the introduction of a new product and initial demand for a remanufactured version of the product is at or near the sweet spot, which is the age of the product at which the costs of acquisition and remanufacturing are at minimum. Further, when the time lag between the introduction of a new product and initial demand for its remanufactured version is near the sweet spot, then simple pricing methods are close to optimal.
Right ventricular pacemaker lead position is associated with differences in long‐term outcomes and complications
Authors: Witt Chance M. , Lenz Charles J. , Shih Henry H. , Ebrille Elisa , Rosenbaum Andrew N. , van Zyl Martin , Aung Htin , Manocha Kevin K. , Deshmukh Abhishek J. , Hodge David O. , Mulpuru Siva K. , Cha Yong‐mei , Espinosa Raul E. , Asirvatham Samuel J. , Mcleod Christopher J.
Published: May 2017

Introduction

Cardiac pacing from the right ventricular apex is associated with detrimental long‐term effects and nonapical pacing locations may be associated with improved outcomes. There is little data regarding complications with nonapical lead positions. The aim of this study was to assess long‐term outcomes and lead‐related complications associated with differing ventricular lead tip position.

Methods and results

All adult patients who underwent dual‐chamber pacemaker implantation from 2004 to 2014 were included if they had postprocedure chest radiographs amenable to lead position determination. Long‐term outcomes and lead‐related complication rates were recorded. These were compared at 5 years between: (1) apical and septal leads, (2) apical and nonseptal nonapical (NSNA), and (3) apical and septal with >40% ventricular pacing. We retrospectively evaluated 3,450 patients, which included 238 with a septal position and 733 with NSNA lead positions. Septal lead position was associated with a lower mortality compared to apical leads (24% vs. 31%, P = 0.02). In patients with greater than 40% pacing, septal leads were associated with significantly higher rates of incident atrial fibrillation compared to apical leads (49% vs. 34%, P = 0.04). NSNA positions were associated with a significantly higher rate of lead dislodgement (4% vs. 2%, P = 0.005) and need for revision (8% vs. 5%, P = 0.005).

Conclusions

Septal pacemaker lead position is associated with a lower mortality compared to apically placed leads, but a higher incidence of atrial fibrillation with higher percentage ventricular pacing. NSNA lead locations are associated with more complications and should be avoided.
Excess cholesterol inhibits glucose‐stimulated fusion pore dynamics in insulin exocytosis
Authors: Xu Yingke , Toomre Derek K. , Bogan Jonathan S. , Hao Mingming
Published: May 2017

Type 2 diabetes is caused by defects in both insulin sensitivity and insulin secretion. Glucose triggers insulin secretion by causing exocytosis of insulin granules from pancreatic β‐cells. High circulating cholesterol levels and a diminished capacity of serum to remove cholesterol from β‐cells are observed in diabetic individuals. Both of these effects can lead to cholesterol accumulation in β‐cells and contribute to β‐cell dysfunction. However, the molecular mechanisms by which cholesterol accumulation impairs β‐cell function remain largely unknown. Here, we used total internal reflection fluorescence microscopy to address, at the single‐granule level, the role of cholesterol in regulating fusion pore dynamics during insulin exocytosis. We focused particularly on the effects of cholesterol overload, which is relevant to type 2 diabetes. We show that excess cholesterol reduced the number of glucose‐stimulated fusion events, and modulated the proportion of full fusion and kiss‐and‐run fusion events. Analysis of single exocytic events revealed distinct fusion kinetics, with more clustered and compound exocytosis observed in cholesterol‐overloaded β‐cells. We provide evidence for the involvement of the GTPase dynamin, which is regulated in part by cholesterol‐induced phosphatidylinositol 4,5‐bisphosphate enrichment in the plasma membrane, in the switch between full fusion and kiss‐and‐run fusion. Characterization of insulin exocytosis offers insights into the role that elevated cholesterol may play in the development of type 2 diabetes.
MiR‐122 modification enhances the therapeutic efficacy of adipose tissue‐derived mesenchymal stem cells against liver fibrosis
Authors: Lou Guohua , Yang Ying , Liu Feifei , Ye Bingjue , Chen Zhi , Zheng Min , Liu Yanning
Published: May 2017

Mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) transplantation alone may be insufficient for treatment of liver fibrosis because of complicated histopathological changes in the liver. Given that miR‐122 plays an essential role in liver fibrosis by negatively regulating the proliferation and transactivation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), this study investigated whether miR‐122 modification can improve the therapeutic efficacy of adipose tissue‐derived MSCs in treating liver fibrosis. MiR‐122‐modified AMSCs (AMSC‐122) were constructed through lentivirus‐mediated transfer of pre‐miR‐122. MiR‐122‐modified AMSCs expressed high level of miR‐122, while they retained their phenotype and differentiation potential as naïve AMSCs. AMSC‐122 more effectively suppressed the proliferation of and collagen maturation in HSCs than scramble miRNA‐modified AMSCs. In addition, AMSC‐derived exosomes mediated the miR‐122 communication between AMSCs and HSCs, further affecting the expression levels of miR‐122 target genes, such as insulin‐like growth factor receptor 1 (IGF1R), Cyclin G(1) (CCNG1) and prolyl‐4‐hydroxylase α1 (P4HA1), which are involved in proliferation of and collagen maturation in HSCs. Moreover, miR‐122 modification enhanced the therapeutic efficacy of AMSCs in the treatment of carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)‐induced liver fibrosis by suppressing the activation of HSCs and alleviating collagen deposition. Results demonstrate that miR‐122 modification improves the therapeutic efficacy of AMSCs through exosome‐mediated miR‐122 communication; thus, miR‐122 modification is a new potential strategy for treatment of liver fibrosis.
Clinical assessment of interdental papilla competency parameters in the esthetic zone
Authors: Joshi Karuna , Baiju C. S. , Khashu Himanshu , Bansal Sumidha , Maheswari Isha B
Published: May 2017

Background

Interdental papilla occupies the space between two adjacent teeth. Its contour and health are regarded with utmost importance in esthetic dental therapy. The loss of papillary height can result in open gingival embrasures, phonetic problems, food impaction, and esthetic concerns: therefore in order to prevent its loss and to better understand the challenges of regenerating the lost gingival papillae, it is crucial to recognize the factors that influence papilla form.

Aim

The purpose of this study is to evaluate various factors associated with the fill of interdental spaces by gingival papillae

Material and methods

150 interdental papillae in 30 patients were assessed with clinical and study models. Papilla score (PS), tooth form/shape, gingival thickness, crest bone height, facio lingual thickness and gingival angle were recorded.

Results

In the study it was observed that complete papilla fill was associated with bone crest‐contact point distance ≤ 5 mm and crown width: length ≥0.88 while interproximal gingival tissue thickness and gingival angle were significantly higher in competent as compared to incompetent papilla group.

Conclusion

Interdental papillae appearance was associated significantly with tooth form/shape (CW/CL), crestal bone height, gingival thickness and gingival angle.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Presence of appropriately positioned interdental papillae in the anterior dentition is essential. Its deficiency leads to complex esthetic and functional problems while its reconstruction poses a formidable challenge. Thus a prior understanding of the various factors that affect its integrity in the anterior region allows for better management of the papillae leading to a more predictable outcome.
Morphology and Phylogeny of Two Novel Ciliates, Arcanisutura chongmingensis n. gen., n. sp. and Naxella paralucida n. sp. from Shanghai, China
Authors: Liao Wanying , Fan Xinpeng , Zhang Qianqian , Xu Yuan , Gu Fukang
Published: May 2017

The morphologies of two novel ciliates, Arcanisutura chongmingensis n. gen., n. sp. and Naxella paralucida n. sp., collected from Shanghai, China, have been investigated using live observation and silver staining methods. Arcanisutura n. gen. can be easily distinguished from related genera by its inconspicuous, oblique anterior suture. Arcanisutura chongmingensis n. sp. is mainly recognized by its elongated body with a tail‐like posterior end, 25–33 somatic kineties, and 4–11 excretory pores. Naxella paralucida n. sp. can be distinguished from its congeners based on its two short nassulid organelles, fusiform trichocysts, 37–49 somatic kineties, and 16 nematodesmal rods. The small‐subunit (SSU) rRNA gene sequences of these two species are presented, revealing the phylogenetic positions of Arcanisutura and Naxella. Phylogenetic analyses show that Arcanisutura forms a sister clade to other synhymeniid genera, namely, Chilodontopsis, Orthodonella, and Zosterodasys; Naxella is most closely related to Nassula spp. and is located within the monophyletic clade of the family Nassulidae.