bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Low mitochondrial DNA diversity of Japanese Polled and Kuchinoshima feral cattle
Authors: Mannen Hideyuki , Yonesaka Riku , Noda Aoi , Shimogiri Takeshi , Oshima Ichiro , Katahira Kiyomi , Kanemaki Misao , Kunieda Tetsuo , Inayoshi Yousuke , Mukai Fumio , Sasazaki Shinji
Published: September 2016

This study aims to estimate the mitochondrial genetic diversity and structure of Japanese Polled and Kuchinoshima feral cattle, which are maintained in small populations. We determined the mitochondrial DMA (mtDNA) displacement loop (D‐loop) sequences for both cattle populations and analyzed these in conjunction with previously published data from Northeast Asian cattle populations. Our findings showed that Japanese native cattle have a predominant, Asian‐specific mtDNA haplogroup T4 with high frequencies (0.43–0.81). This excluded Kuchinoshima cattle (32 animals), which had only one mtDNA haplotype belonging to the haplogroup T3. Japanese Polled showed relatively lower mtDNA diversity in the average sequence divergence (0.0020) than other Wagyu breeds (0.0036–0.0047). Japanese Polled have been maintained in a limited area of Yamaguchi, and the population size is now less than 200. Therefore, low mtDNA diversity in the Japanese Polled could be explained by the decreasing population size in the last three decades. We found low mtDNA diversity in both Japanese Polled and Kuchinoshima cattle. The genetic information obtained in this study will be useful for maintaining these populations and for understanding the origin of Japanese native cattle.
Novel mechanism of modulation at a ligand‐gated ion channel; action of 5‐Cl‐indole at the 5‐HT3A receptor
Authors: Powell Andrew D , Grafton Gillian , Roberts Alexander , Larkin Shannon , O'Neill Nathanael , Palandri Josephine , Otvos Reka , Cooper Alison J , Ulens Chris , Barnes Nicholas M
Published: September 2016

Background and Purpose

The 5‐HT3 receptor is a prototypical member of the Cys‐loop ligand‐gated ion channel (LGIC) superfamily and an established therapeutic target. In addition to activation via the orthosteric site, receptor function can be modulated by allosteric ligands. We have investigated the pharmacological action of Cl‐indole upon the 5‐HT3A receptor and identified that this positive allosteric modulator possesses a novel mechanism of action for LGICs.

Experimental Approach

The impact of Cl‐indole upon the 5‐HT3 receptor was assessed using single cell electrophysiological recordings and [3H]‐granisetron binding in HEK293 cells stably expressing the 5‐HT3 receptor.

Key Results

Cl‐indole failed to evoke 5‐HT3A receptor‐mediated responses (up to 30 μM) or display affinity for the [3H]‐granisetron binding site. However, in the presence of Cl‐indole, termination of 5‐HT application revealed tail currents mediated via the 5‐HT3A receptor that were independent of the preceding 5‐HT concentration but were antagonized by the 5‐HT3 receptor antagonist, ondansetron. These tail currents were absent in the 5‐HT3AB receptor. Furthermore, the presence of 5‐HT revealed a concentration‐dependent increase in the affinity of Cl‐indole for the orthosteric binding site of the human 5‐HT3A receptor.

Conclusions and Implications

Cl‐indole acts as both an orthosteric agonist and an allosteric modulator, but the presence of an orthosteric agonist (e.g. 5‐HT) is a prerequisite to reveal both actions. Precedent for ago‐allosteric action is available, yet the essential additional presence of an orthosteric agonist is now reported for the first time. This widening of the pharmacological mechanisms to modulate LGICs may offer further therapeutic opportunities.
Health‐related quality of life of young people with long‐term illnesses before and after transfer from child to adult healthcare
Authors: While A. E. , Heery E. , Sheehan A. M. , Coyne I.
Published: September 2016

Background

The numbers of children with long‐term illnesses surviving into adulthood and transferring from child to adult services has increased dramatically in the last 30 years. This study aimed to examine health‐related quality of life pre‐ and post‐transfer from child to adult healthcare for young people with three long‐term illnesses.

Methods

A total of 217 young people with cystic fibrosis, congenital heart defects or diabetes attending child and adult hospital services in Dublin, Ireland completed a questionnaire survey. Multiple linear regression was used to identify predictors of five dimensions of health‐related quality of life pre‐ and post‐transfer.

Results

Post‐transfer young people with congenital heart disease and diabetes reported significantly lower physical well‐being than their pre‐transfer counterparts. Pre‐transfer young people with cystic fibrosis reported significantly lower physical well‐being than those with diabetes, but there was no significant difference post‐transfer. Pre‐transfer females reported lower scores than males on the Psychological Well‐being and Autonomy and Parent Relation dimensions; however, these differences disappeared post‐transfer. Higher maternal overprotection scores were associated with significantly lower scores on the Psychological Well‐being, Autonomy and Parent Relation, and Social Support and Peers dimensions, regardless of transfer status.

Conclusions

Disease group, gender and maternal overprotection were predictors of health‐related quality of life pre‐ and post‐transfer from child to adult healthcare. Transition programmes should promote self‐management and discourage parental overprotection.
ELECTORAL RULES AND PUBLIC SPENDING COMPOSITION: THE CASE OF ITALIAN REGIONS
Authors: Santolini Raffaella
Published: September 2016

This study investigates the effects produced by the electoral system on expenditure composition by exploring the case of Italian regions over the period 1986–2009. Empirical analysis shows that the regional current transfers expenditure distributed to families and firms significantly decreases when the regional electoral system moves from being proportional to mixed. Particularly striking is the reduction in preelectoral years under the regional mixed regime. (JEL D72, H30, H72)
Are Brazil's Deforesters Avoiding Detection?
Authors: Richards Peter , Arima Eugenio , VanWey Leah , Cohn Avery , Bhattarai Nishan
Published: September 2016

Rates of deforestation reported by Brazil's official deforestation monitoring system have declined dramatically in the Brazilian Amazon. Much of Brazil's success in its fight against deforestation has been credited to a series of policy changes put into place between 2004 and 2008. In this research, we posit that one of these policies, the decision to use the country's official system for monitoring forest loss in the Amazon as a policing tool, has incentivized landowners to deforest in ways and places that evade Brazil's official monitoring and enforcement system. As a consequence, we a) show or b) provide several pieces of suggestive evidence that recent successes in protecting monitored forests in the Brazilian Amazon may be doing less to protect the region's forests than previously assumed.
Role of positron emission tomography imaging in Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndromes
Authors: July Mose , Santhanam Prasanna , Giovanella Luca , Treglia Giorgio
Published: September 2016

The aim of this review was to summarize the recent developments on the role of positron emission tomography (PET) imaging using different radiopharmaceuticals in patients with multiple endocrine neoplasia (MEN) syndromes. Although most guidelines do not mention the use of PET imaging in patients with MEN syndromes, recent data seem to suggest a relevant diagnostic role of PET imaging in this setting. In particular, latest evidence has shown that somatostatin receptor PET provides a diagnostic accuracy in detecting MEN syndromes‐related neuroendocrine tumours (NETs) higher than that of somatostatin receptor scintigraphy, thus influencing patient management in a significant percentage of cases. 18F‐DOPA PET seems to have a potential role in detecting MEN‐2‐related NETs, whereas 18F‐FDG PET is potentially useful in identifying aggressive NETs with poorer outcomes. More studies are needed to better define the role of different radiotracer‐based PET imaging in patients with MEN syndromes.
Static and dynamic functional connectivity in patients with chronic fatigue syndrome: use of arterial spin labelling fMRI
Authors: Boissoneault Jeff , Letzen Janelle , Lai Song , Robinson Michael E. , Staud Roland
Published: September 2016

Studies using arterial spin labelling (ASL) have shown that individuals with chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) have decreased regional cerebral blood flow, which may be associated with changes in functional neural networks. Indeed, recent studies indicate disruptions in functional connectivity (FC) at rest in chronically fatigued patients including perturbations in static FC (sFC), that is average FC at rest between several brain regions subserving neurocognitive, motor and affect‐related networks. Whereas sFC often provides information of functional network reorganization in chronic illnesses, investigations of temporal changes in functional connectivity between multiple brain areas may shed light on the dynamic characteristics of brain network activation associated with such maladies. We used ASL fMRI in 19 patients with CFS and 15 healthy controls (HC) to examine both static and dynamic changes in FC among several a priori selected brain regions during a fatiguing cognitive task. HC showed greater increases than CFS in static FC (sFC) between insula and temporo‐occipital structures and between precuneus and thalamus/striatum. Furthermore, inferior frontal gyrus connectivity to cerebellum, occipital and temporal structures declined in HC but increased in CFS. Patients also showed lower dynamic FC (dFC) between hippocampus and right superior parietal lobule. Both sFC and dFC correlated with task‐related fatigue increases. These data provide the first evidence that perturbations in static and dynamic FC may underlie chronically fatigued patients’ report of task‐induced fatigue. Further research will determine whether such changes in sFC and dFC are also characteristic for other fatigued individuals, including patients with chronic pain, cancer and multiple sclerosis.
Multiple clear cell acanthomas and a sebaceous lymphadenoma presenting in a patient with Cowden syndrome – a case report
Authors: Potenziani Silvia , Applebaum Danielle , Krishnan Bhuvaneswari , Gutiérrez Carolina , Diwan A. Hafeez
Published: September 2016

Cowden syndrome (CS) is an uncommon autosomal dominant multiorgan/system genodermatosis. It is characterized by the development of multiple hamartomas of endodermal, mesodermal and ectodermal origin, an increased lifetime risk of breast, thyroid, endometrial and other cancers and an identifiable germline mutation. Mucocutaneous hamartomas are the most common lesions seen and mainly include facial trichilemmomas, oral mucosal papillomas and benign acral keratoses. Herein, we report a case of a 63‐year‐old Caucasian male with a long‐established diagnosis of CS and history of thyroid cancer, colonic polyps, and innumerable trichilemmomas, seborrheic keratoses, squamous papillomas and non‐melanoma skin cancers excised in the past. He presented in four separate occasions with small skin‐colored papulonodular lesions that upon excision revealed to be clear cell acanthomas. He also developed a tumor in the preauricular area that was completely resected and was found to be a sebaceous lymphadenoma (SLA) of the parotid gland. This is to our knowledge, the second report of clear cell acanthoma and also the second reported case of SLA in a patient with CS.
Black veins: a case of minocycline‐induced pigmentation post‐sclerotherapy and a review of literature
Authors: Star Phoebe , Choy Carolyn , Parsi Kurosh
Published: September 2016

Minocycline‐induced pigmentation (MIP) is an uncommon but well‐described adverse effect of oral minocycline treatment. MIP is clinically and histopathologically distinct from post‐sclerotherapy pigmentation. We report a case of a patient presenting with blackened skin overlying veins recently treated with endovenous laser and foam sclerotherapy. The patient was a 44‐year‐old male with systemic sclerosis who commenced minocycline for the treatment of rosacea 5 months prior. Histological examination of the discolored tissue and underlying vein revealed hemosiderin deposition in the dermis and pigmented macrophages within the sub‐endothelial layer of the vein wall with a staining pattern consistent with MIP. Venous tissue has not previously been reported in the literature as a target of minocycline pigmentation. Our patient preferred to control his rosacea by continuing to take minocycline. Follow‐up ultrasound examinations revealed the treated vessels to be fully occluded with no evidence of recanalization, residual flow or ongoing thrombophlebitis. Despite a good sclerotherapy outcome, the pigmentation did not subside over 2 years. This case demonstrates that oral minocycline may induce significant and potentially long‐term pigmentation in predisposed patients undergoing sclerotherapy.
Linear trichilemmomas on the ankle of a 28‐year‐old female
Authors: Gonzalez Jessica L. , Plotnikova Natalia , Seymour Andrew , Mannion Ciaran M. , Danialan Richard , Rosmarin David
Published: September 2016

Trichilemmomas are benign cutaneous proliferations derived from the outer root sheath of the hair follicle. They most often occur on the head and neck region and show a female predominance. When multiple, they are associated with Cowden syndrome (CS), a rare disorder due to an autosomal dominant germline mutation in PTEN (phosphatase and tensin homolog on chromosome 10), a tumor suppressor gene. Trichilemmomas outside of the head and neck region are rare, and as such, the association with CS is not clear. A 28‐year‐old healthy female with no significant family history of cancer presented to her dermatologist with multiple erythematous papules on the left anterior ankle, starting at birth. A shave biopsy confirmed the diagnosis of trichilemmoma with focal desmoplastic features (or desmoplastic trichilemmoma). A PTEN immunohistochemical study showed patchy (but not complete) loss of staining of the lesional cells. After shave removal, the trichilemmomas recurred 1–2 months later.
‘Why can't I just not drink?’ A qualitative study of adults' social experiences of stopping or reducing alcohol consumption
Authors: Bartram Ashlea , Eliott Jaklin , Crabb Shona
Published: September 2016

Introduction and Aims

Alcohol is ingrained in Australian culture, playing an important role in many social occasions. This can make reducing or stopping alcohol consumption challenging, as one risks rejecting, not just a drink but also the valued social norms that drink represents. This study aimed to investigate the social experiences of adults who stop or reduce their alcohol consumption.

Design and Methods

Sixteen semi‐structured interviews were conducted with people aged over 25 years who had stopped or significantly reduced their alcohol consumption for at least 3 months in the past year and were thematically analysed.

Results

Participants found themselves stigmatised for violating expectations around alcohol consumption when they tried to stop or reduce their own drinking. Although most were able to either conceal their change in alcohol consumption or present it so that it did not challenge norms around drinking, this approach was seen as a temporary measure and not one to employ with people with whom they socialised regularly. Instead, many participants sought to change their interactions with their social group to focus on activities with which alcohol consumption was not strongly associated.

Discussion and Conclusions

Reducing or stopping alcohol consumption can have positive consequences for health, yet it can also raise social challenges that individuals need to negotiate in order to maintain their social well‐being. This tension suggests a need for health promotion campaigns to address the social as well as health consequences of reducing alcohol consumption. [Bartram A, Eliott J, Crabb S. ‘Why can't I just not drink?’ A qualitative study of adults' social experiences of stopping or reducing alcohol consumption. Drug Alcohol Rev 2017;26:449‐455]
Alcohol promotions in Australian supermarket catalogues
Authors: Johnston Robyn , Stafford Julia , Pierce Hannah , Daube Mike
Published: September 2016

Introduction and Aims

In Australia, most alcohol is sold as packaged liquor from off‐premises retailers, a market increasingly dominated by supermarket chains. Competition between retailers may encourage marketing approaches, for example, discounting, that evidence indicates contribute to alcohol‐related harms. This research documented the nature and variety of promotional methods used by two major supermarket retailers to promote alcohol products in their supermarket catalogues.

Design and Methods

Weekly catalogues from the two largest Australian supermarket chains were reviewed for alcohol‐related content over 12 months. Alcohol promotions were assessed for promotion type, product type, number of standard drinks, purchase price and price/standard drink.

Results

Each store catalogue included, on average, 13 alcohol promotions/week, with price‐based promotions most common. Forty‐five percent of promotions required the purchase of multiple alcohol items. Wine was the most frequently promoted product (44%), followed by beer (24%) and spirits (18%). Most (99%) wine cask (2–5 L container) promotions required multiple (two to three) casks to be purchased. The average number of standard drinks required to be purchased to participate in catalogue promotions was 31.7 (SD = 24.9; median = 23.1). The median price per standard drink was $1.49 (range $0.19–$9.81). Cask wines had the lowest cost per standard drink across all product types.

Discussion and Conclusions

Supermarket catalogues' emphasis on low prices/high volumes of alcohol reflects that retailers are taking advantage of limited restrictions on off‐premise sales and promotion, which allow them to approach market competition in ways that may increase alcohol‐related harms in consumers. Regulation of alcohol marketing should address retailer catalogue promotions. [Johnston R, Stafford J, Pierce H, Daube M. Alcohol promotions in Australian supermarket catalogues. Drug Alcohol Rev 2017;36:456‐463]
Endoscopic ultrasonography‐guided choledochoduodenostomy using a newly designed laser‐cut metal stent: Feasibility study in a porcine model
Authors: Minaga Kosuke , Kitano Masayuki , Gon Chimyon , Yamao Kentaro , Imai Hajime , Miyata Takeshi , Kamata Ken , Omoto Shunsuke , Takenaka Mamoru , Kudo Masatoshi
Published: September 2016

Background and Aim

Endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS)‐guided choledochoduodenostomy (EUS‐CDS) is increasingly used in the treatment of malignant distal biliary obstruction. Standardized use of this technique requires improvements in instruments, including more convenient and safer devices. The present study was designed to evaluate the resistance force to migration (RFM) of a newly designed laser‐cut metal stent and the feasibility of EUS‐CDS using this stent.

Methods

This experimental study used a porcine model of biliary dilatation involving five male pigs. The new stent is a fully covered laser‐cut stent with anti‐migration anchoring hooks. The RFM of the new stents was compared with those of three commercially available covered metal stents using a phantom model. In the animal study, after ligation of Vater's ampulla with endoscopic clips, the dilated common bile duct was punctured under EUS guidance, followed by EUS‐CDS using the new stent. One week after the procedure, the stents were removed endoscopically and the fistulas were assessed after the pigs were killed. Technical feasibility and clinical outcomes were evaluated.

Results

Among the four stents, the new stent had the highest RFM. Metal stent placement was successful in all five pigs, with no procedure‐related complications occurring during and 1 week after endoscopic intervention. All stents remained in place without migration and were removed easily using a snare. At necropsy, fistulas were created between the bile duct and duodenum in all pigs.

Conclusion

EUS‐CDS using a newly designed metal stent was feasible and effective in this porcine model of biliary dilatation.
The C'JAAD: a French team for early intervention in psychosis in Paris
Authors: Oppetit Alice , Bourgin Julie , Martinez Gilles , Kazes Mathilde , Mam‐Lam‐Fook Célia , Gaillard Raphael , Olié Jean‐Pierre , Krebs Marie‐Odile
Published: September 2016

Aim

The aim is to describe a centre operating in Paris that pioneers the early intervention for young people at the onset and at high risk of psychosis in France.

Methods

Comprehensive descriptive analysis of different clinical and service measures is used in describing the implementation of the C'JAAD (Evaluation Centre for Young Adults and Adolescents) using data from an ongoing prospective non‐interventional research programme.

Results

Over a 2‐year period, 151 patients were referred to the C'JAAD and included in the ICAAR research programme. After evaluation by the Comprehensive Assessment of the At‐Risk Mental States Scale, 53.7% were identified at risk of developing a psychosis, 20.6% presented a full‐blown psychosis and 25.7% were considered not at risk of developing a psychosis. A total of 84% of the at‐risk subjects suffered from a psychiatric co‐morbidity, of which anxiodepressive symptoms being the most frequent (39%). The global functioning of these at‐risk subjects was seriously impaired (average Social and Occupational Functioning Assessment Scale score = 48.9). More than one third of the patients was self‐referred (33.8%), 22.5% were addressed by a psychiatrist whereas 10.6% were referred by a general practitioner.

Conclusions

In this paper, we report for the first time the activities of the C'JAAD, the pioneer unit in France for early detection and treatment of young adults with early psychosis. These observations indicate that such early intervention centre is a feasible and sustainable extension of traditional care for people with mental disorders in this country and offers promising perspective for the development of further centres.
Value of video monitoring for nocturnal seizure detection in a residential setting
Authors: van der Lende Marije , Cox Fieke M. E. , Visser Gerhard H. , Sander Josemir W. , Thijs Roland D.
Published: September 2016

Objective

Following a sudden death at a residential care unit, the Dutch Health and Care Inspectorate advised intensification of the use of video monitoring (VM) at the unit. We assessed whether VM resulted in increased identification of seizures that required clinical intervention.

Methods

The unit provides care for 340 individuals with refractory epilepsy and severe learning disabilities. Acoustic detection systems (ADSs) cover all individuals; 37 people also have a bed motion sensor (BMS) and 46 people with possible nocturnal seizures are now monitored by VM. During a 6‐month period, in all cases of a suspected seizure we asked the caregivers to specify which device alerted them and to indicate whether this led to an intervention. Staff costs of VM were estimated using payroll information.

Results

We identified 1,208 seizures in 37 individuals: 4 had no nocturnal seizures and 393 (33%) seizures were seen only on video. In 169 (14%) of 1,208 seizures an intervention was made and this included 39 (10%) of 393 seizures seen only on video. When compared to seizures observed with an ADS or BMS, seizures seen only on video were more often tonic seizures (71% vs. 22%, p < 0.001) and occurred mostly in the beginning or at the end of the night (40% vs. 26%, p < 0.001). The extra staff costs of monitoring was 7,035 euro per seizure seen only on video and leading to an intervention.

Significance

VM facilitates nocturnal surveillance, but the costs are high. This underscores the need for development of reliable seizure detection devices.
Women with epilepsy initiating a progestin IUD: A prospective pilot study of safety and acceptability
Authors: Davis Anne R. , Saadatmand Heva J. , Pack Alison
Published: September 2016

Objective

Effective contraception enables women with epilepsy (WWE) to plan their pregnancies and improve outcomes for themselves and their children. Although popular among all women, complex drug interactions limit the efficacy and safety of oral contraceptives (OCs) for WWE. We sought to explore the safety, acceptability, and pharmacokinetic impact of a progestin‐containing intrauterine device (IUD) in WWE.

Methods

We enrolled 20 women with well‐controlled epilepsy and a stable antiepileptic drug (AED) regimen and who were initiating a progestin‐containing IUD (levonorgestrel 52 mg) in a prospective, observational study. For each AED, we compared the trough concentration before IUD insertion to the trough concentration 3 weeks, and 3 and 6 months later. Participants recorded seizures in a daily paper diary. We compared seizures that occurred during the month before IUD insertion to those occurring in the 6 months thereafter. Participants completed an acceptability questionnaire at 3 and 6 months.

Results

Participants’ average age was 28 years; 60% were nulligravid. They reported a history of multiple seizure types. During the baseline month, 75% were seizure‐free and the remainder reported between one and three seizures. Fourteen received monotherapy and six received polytherapy. Lamotrigine use was most common (n = 12). AED trough concentrations remained stable during the 6 months after IUD insertion, without clinically meaningful deviations from baseline. Diary data showed that seizure frequency worsened in 3, and remained unchanged in 13 and improved in 4 after IUD insertion. Subjectively, no participant believed the IUD worsened her seizure control. All participants were either somewhat or very satisfied with the IUD throughout the study. All participants continued the IUD use at 6 months. No pregnancies occurred.

Significance

This pilot study suggests that the progestin‐containing IUD is a safe and acceptable long‐acting contraceptive for WWE.
Intraspecific variation in an Ediacaran skeletal metazoan: Namacalathus from the Nama Group, Namibia
Authors: Penny A. M. , Wood R. A. , Zhuravlev A. Yu. , Curtis A. , Bowyer F. , Tostevin R.
Published: September 2016

Namacalathus hermanastes is one of the oldest known skeletal metazoans, found in carbonate settings of the terminal Ediacaran (~550–541 million years ago [Ma]). The palaeoecology of this widespread, goblet‐shaped, benthic organism is poorly constrained yet critical for understanding the dynamics of the earliest metazoan communities. Analysis of in situ assemblages from the Nama Group, Namibia (~548–541 Ma), shows that Namacalathus exhibited size variation in response to differing water depths, hydrodynamic conditions and substrate types. In low‐energy, inner ramp environments, Namacalathus attains the largest average sizes but grew in transient, loosely aggregating, monospecific aggregations attached to microbial mats. In high‐energy mid‐ramp reefs, Namacalathus spatially segregated into different palaeoecological habitats with distinct size distributions. In outer ramp environments, individuals were small and formed patchy, dense, monospecific aggregations attached to thin microbial mats. Asexual budding is common in all settings. We infer that variations in size distribution in Namacalathus reflect differences in habitat heterogeneity and stability, including the longevity of mechanically stable substrates and oxic conditions. In the Nama Group, long‐lived skeletal metazoan communities developed within topographically heterogeneous mid‐ramp reefs, which provided diverse mechanically stable microbial substrates in persistently oxic waters, while inner and outer ramp communities were often ephemeral, developing during fleeting episodes of either oxia and/or substrate stability. We conclude that Namacalathus, which forms a component of these communities in the Nama Group, was a generalist that adapted to various palaeoecological habitats within a heterogeneous ecosystem landscape where favourable conditions persisted, and was also able to opportunistically colonise transiently hospitable environments. These early skeletal metazoans colonised previously unoccupied substrates in thrombolitic reefs and other microbial carbonate settings, and while they experienced relatively low levels of interspecific competition, they were nonetheless adapted to the diverse environments and highly dynamic redox conditions present in the terminal Ediacaran.
C reactive protein and depressive symptoms in hemodialysis patients: A questionable association
Authors: Chilcot Joseph , Friedli Karin , Guirguis Ayman , Wellsted David , Farrington Ken , Davenport Andrew
Published: September 2016

Introduction: Patients with advanced chronic kidney disease (CKD) on haemodialysis (HD) may have increased C reactive protein (CRP) values and depressive symptoms. There is debate about the strength and nature of previously reported associations. We investigated these issues in a cohort of patients on HD.

Methods: We screened for depressive symptoms using two valadiated depression screening tools: the Beck Depression Inventory‐II (BDI‐II), Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ‐9). Demographic and clinical correlates of depression symptoms were eveluated in adjusted linear and logistic regression models, which included extra renal comorbidity and high CRP (>5 mg/L).

Findings: Three hundred and ninety‐six HD patients were studied; 63.1% male, mean age 63.1 ± 16.4 years, median CRP 6 (5–15) mg/L. Depression scores were similar in those with normal and high CRP (BDI‐II (9(5–17) vs. 11(6–20)) or PHQ (4(2–9) vs. 6(2–10)). In adjusted multivariable regression BDI‐II scores were associated with previous history of depression (β 10.8, P < 0.001), serum albumin (β 0.41, P < 0.001), anuria (β 2.4, P < 0.037), diabetes (β 2.7, P = 0.033), and age (β −0.10, P = 0.009). High CRP was not independently associated with BDI‐II (β 2.20, P = 0.057), though was with PHQ‐9 (β 1.20, P = 0.046). In logistic regression those with high CRP were 1.9 times more likely to score ≥16 on BDI‐II screening (P = 0.016), but did not relate significantly to a PHQ‐score ≥10.

Discussion: A relationship was observed between CRP and depression symptoms, though the effect was small, of unlikely clinical significance, and inconsistent between depression measures. Previous reports of this association may reflect overlap between symptoms of depression and advanced CKD.
Enhanced near‐infrared to green upconversion from Er3+‐doped oxyfluoride glass and glass ceramics containing BaGdF5 nanocrystals
Authors: Biswas Kaushik , Balaji Sathravada , Ghosh Debarati , Kalyandurg Annapurna
Published: September 2016

In this work, effect of glass composition as well as ceramization on visible and near‐infrared (NIR) luminescence properties along with their decay dynamics of Er3+ ions has been compared considering two different oxyfluoride glasses yielding BaF2 and BaGdF5 nanocrystals. Both the glass systems have exhibited an intense normal and upconversion green emission under ultraviolet (378 nm) and NIR (978 nm) excitations, respectively. A remarkable enhancement of these emission intensities is observed for gadolinium‐(Gd) containing glasses. Interestingly, NIR fluorescence intensity from Er3+ ions at 1540 nm has showed marginal decrease in gadolinium‐containing glass which is attributed to occurrence of strong excited‐state absorption (ESA) due to higher fluorine content ensuing an augmentation of upconversion green emission with a concomitant decrease in NIR emission. The quadratic dependence of upconversion green emission intensity on its pump power for all the samples revealed biphotonic absorption process from ground‐state 4I15/2 to the excited‐state 4I11/2 followed by ESA of second photon to the 4F7/2 level. The intense green upconversion emission as well as enhanced NIR fluorescence lifetimes indicate the suitability of these glass/glass ceramics for upconversion lasers and amplification in the third telecom window.
The effects of under‐skilling on need for recovery, losing employment and retirement intentions among older office workers: A prospective cohort study
Authors: GOMMANS Fleur G. , JANSEN Nicole W.H. , STYNEN Dave , KANT IJmert , de GRIP Andries
Published: September 2016

Based on a sample of older workers from the Maastricht Cohort Study, the authors investigate the prevalence and dynamics of self‐reported under‐skilling and its effects on workers' need for recovery, their risk of losing employment and their retirement intentions over a two‐year period. They find that being under‐skilled is associated both with higher levels of need for recovery over time and with the risk of losing employment, but not with early retirement intentions. To achieve sustainable employment, they argue, the course of under‐skilling should be monitored throughout workers' careers, enabling timely interventions to avoid its negative consequences.
Motivational aftercare planning to better care: Applying the principles of advanced directives and motivational interviewing to discharge planning for people with mental illness
Authors: Kisely Steve , Wyder Marianne , Dietrich Josie , Robinson Gail , Siskind Dan , Crompton David
Published: September 2016

Improving the input of people with mental illness into their recovery plans can potentially lead to better outcomes. In the present study, we evaluated the introduction of motivational aftercare planning (MAP) into the discharge planning of psychiatric inpatients. MAP is a manualized intervention combining motivational interviewing with advance directives. We measured changes in the level of patient input into discharge planning following training staff in the use of MAP. This included the following: (i) documentation of early relapse signs along with successful past responses; (ii) evidence of aftercare planning; and (iii) the use of the patients' own words in the plan. We used a ward‐level controlled before‐and‐after design comparing one intervention ward with two control wards. We used anonymized recovery plans, with a goal of 50 plans per ward before and after the intervention, to look for evidence of patient input into care planning with a standardized checklist. There were also qualitative interviews with individuals discharged from the unit. We reviewed 100 intervention ward plans and 197 control ones (total n = 297). There were no significant differences in recovery plans from intervention and control wards at baseline. Following MAP training, the intervention ward improved significantly (e.g. identification of triggers increased from 52 to 94%, χ2 = 23.3, d.f. =1, P < 0.001). This did not occur in the control wards. The qualitative data (n = 20 interviews) showed improvements in participants' experiences of discharge planning. MAP increased inpatient input into discharge planning and was valued by participants. The effect on subsequent health service use needs evaluation.
The effect of an educational pre‐operative DVD on parents’ and children's outcomes after a same‐day surgery: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Chartrand Julie , Tourigny Jocelyne , MacCormick Johnna
Published: September 2016

Aims

To examine the effect of a pre‐operative DVD on parents’ knowledge, participation and anxiety and on children's distress, pain, analgesic requirements and length of recovery after same‐day surgery.

Background

Very few parents are adequately prepared to participate in their child's care during a same‐day surgery. An educational DVD was developed to educate parents on how to actively support their child in the recovery room.

Design

Single‐blind, post‐test randomized controlled trial. Study is registered at ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02766452.

Methods

Between September 2011–September 2012, 123 parent–child dyads where the child underwent an ENT or dental same‐day surgery were recruited in a Canadian paediatric hospital. Dyads were randomly assigned to either the intervention (DVD and standard preparation) or control group (standard preparation). Parents and children were videotaped in the recovery room where parental participation and anxiety and children's distress were measured. Data on parents’ knowledge, children's postoperative pain, analgesic requirements and length of recovery were measured. Independent and paired t‐tests, chi square and repeated measures anova were used to analyse the data.

Results

Parents in the intervention group gained greater knowledge of and used more positive reinforcement and distraction and relaxation methods than those in the control group. Children's postoperative pain in the day‐care surgery unit was significantly lower among the intervention group compared with the control group.

Conclusion

A pre‐operative DVD can increase parents’ participation in the recovery room and decrease children's postoperative pain.
Understanding interprofessional collaboration in the context of chronic disease management for older adults living in communities: a concept analysis
Authors: Bookey‐Bassett Sue , Markle‐Reid Maureen , Mckey Colleen A. , Akhtar‐Danesh Noori
Published: September 2016

Aim

To report a concept analysis of interprofessional collaboration in the context of chronic disease management, for older adults living in communities.

Background

Increasing prevalence of chronic disease among older adults is creating significant burden for patients, families and healthcare systems. Managing chronic disease for older adults living in the community requires interprofessional collaboration across different health and other care providers, organizations and sectors. However, there is a lack of consensus about the definition and use of interprofessional collaboration for community‐based chronic disease management.

Design

Concept analysis.

Data sources

Electronic databases CINAHL, Medline, HealthStar, EMBASE, PsychINFO, Ageline and Cochrane Database were searched from 2000 ‐ 2013.

Methods

Rodgers' evolutionary method for concept analysis.

Results

The most common surrogate term was interdisciplinary collaboration. Related terms were interprofessional team, multidisciplinary team and teamwork. Attributes included: an evolving interpersonal process; shared goals, decision‐making and care planning; interdependence; effective and frequent communication; evaluation of team processes; involving older adults and family members in the team; and diverse and flexible team membership. Antecedents comprised: role awareness; interprofessional education; trust between team members; belief that interprofessional collaboration improves care; and organizational support. Consequences included impacts on team composition and function, care planning processes and providers' knowledge, confidence and job satisfaction.

Conclusion

Interprofessional collaboration is a complex evolving concept. Key components of interprofessional collaboration in chronic disease management for community‐living older adults are identified. Implications for nursing practice, education and research are proposed.
CONSIDER – Core Outcome Set in IAD Research: study protocol for establishing a core set of outcomes and measurements in incontinence‐associated dermatitis research
Authors: Van den Bussche Karen , De Meyer Dorien , Van Damme Nele , Kottner Jan , Beeckman Dimitri
Published: September 2016

Aim

This study protocol describes the methodology for the development of a core set of outcomes and a core set of measurements for incontinence‐associated dermatitis.

Background

Incontinence is a widespread disorder with an important impact on quality of life. One of the most common complications is incontinence‐associated dermatitis, resulting from chemical and physical irritation of the skin barrier, triggering inflammation and skin damage. Managing incontinence‐associated dermatitis is an important challenge for nurses. Several interventions have been assessed in clinical trials, but heterogeneity in study outcomes complicates the comparability and standardization. To overcome this challenge, the development of a core outcome set, a minimum set of outcomes and measurements to be assessed in clinical research, is needed.

Design

A project team, International Steering Committee and panelists will be involved to guide the development of the core outcome set. The framework of the Harmonizing Outcomes Measures for Eczema roadmap endorsed by Cochrane Skin Group Core Outcomes Set Initiative, is used to inform the project design.

Methods

A systematic literature review, interviews to integrate the patients' perspective and a consensus study with healthcare researchers and providers using the Delphi procedure will be performed. The project was approved by the Ethics review Committee (April 2016).

Discussion

This is the first project that will identify a core outcome set of outcomes and measurements for incontinence‐associated dermatitis research. A core outcome set will reduce possible reporting bias, allow results comparisons and statistical pooling across trials and strengthen evidence‐based practice and decision‐making.

Registration

This project has been registered in the Core Outcome Measures in Effectiveness Trials (COMET) database and is part of the Cochrane Skin Group Core Outcomes Set Initiative (CSG‐COUSIN).
PROTECT – trial: a multicentre prospective pragmatic RCT and health economic analysis of the effect of tailored repositioning to prevent pressure ulcers – study protocol
Authors: De Meyer Dorien , Van Damme Nele , Van den Bussche Karen , Van Hecke Ann , Verhaeghe Sofie , Beeckman Dimitri
Published: September 2016

Aim

The aims of this trial were as follows: (1) to compare the (cost‐) effectiveness of a turning and repositioning system and an algorithm for a tailored repositioning vs. usual care to improve reposition frequency in patients at risk; and (2) to compare the (cost‐) effectiveness of standardized incontinence care vs. usual care.

Background

Pressure ulcers are a serious and common problem for hospitalized patients. In many countries, pressure ulcers are recognized as a national health issue and governments designate pressure ulcers as one of the most important sentinel events for health care. International guidelines recommend the use of pressure redistributing support surfaces, systematic patient repositioning and preventive skin care to prevent pressure ulcers. Interventions should be patient‐tailored and based on a thorough assessment of both the patient and contextual risk factors. There is a lack of rigorous research addressing the effectiveness of a turning and repositioning system and it is unclear how to tailor the frequency and posture to specific patient needs.

Design

Multicentre, cluster, three‐arm, randomized, controlled pragmatic trial and a cost‐effectiveness analysis. The ward is the unit of randomization.

Methods

Tailored repositioning, the use of a device to facilitate patient repositioning and an optimal procedure for incontinence care will be combined. Participating wards will be intensive care units, geriatric and rehabilitation wards. A sample size calculation was performed (80% power, α = 0·05). This study is approved by the Ethics Committee (February 2016).

Discussion

Data collection is currently ongoing. The results are expected to be obtained in March 2017.
Is Family Control Relevant for Corporate Cash Holding Policy?
Authors: Durán Rodrigo F. , Lozano M. Belén , Yaman Serhat
Published: September 2016

This empirical research examines the effect of family control on firms’ cash holding policy. Using a sample of Western European firms, we confirm the precautionary motive for holding cash as family‐controlled firms’ desire to perpetuate the family legacy for future generations motivates them to accumulate more cash than their non‐family counterparts. We also show that, given family‐controlled firms’ long‐term perspective, they focus on cash flow volatility rather than cash flow level. Finally, the relation between financing constraints and cash holdings is not homogeneous: financially constrained family‐controlled firms hold higher levels of cash than financially constrained non‐family firms. Overall, these results suggest that family firms’ cash holding policy is the result not of a specific financial outcome but rather on the strategic objectives of the firm.
DSM‐IV, DSM‐5, and ICD‐11: Identifying children with posttraumatic stress disorder after disasters
Authors: Danzi BreAnne A. , La Greca Annette M.
Published: September 2016

Background

Different criteria for diagnosing posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) have been recommended by the 5th edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM‐5) and the proposed 11th edition of the International Classification of Diseases (ICD‐11). Although children are vulnerable to PTSD following disasters, little is known about whether these revised criteria are appropriate for preadolescents, as diagnostic revisions have been based primarily on adult research. This study investigated rates of PTSD using DSM‐IV, DSM‐5, and ICD‐11 diagnostic criteria, and their associations with symptom severity, impairment, and PTSD risk factors.

Methods

Children (7–11 years) exposed to Hurricanes Ike (n = 327) or Charley (n = 383) completed measures 8–9 months postdisaster. Using diagnostic algorithms for DSM‐IV, DSM‐5, and ICD‐11, rates of ‘probable’ PTSD were calculated.

Results

Across samples, rates of PTSD were similar. However, there was low agreement across the diagnostic systems, with about a third overlap in identified cases. Children identified only by ICD‐11 had higher ‘core’ symptom severity but lower impairment than children identified only by DSM‐IV or DSM‐5. ICD‐11 was associated with more established risk factors for PTSD than was DSM‐5.

Conclusions

Findings revealed differences in PTSD diagnosis across major diagnostic systems for preadolescent children, with no clear advantage to any one system. Further research on developmentally sensitive PTSD criteria for preadolescent children is needed.