bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Whole body vibration affects the cross‐sectional area and symmetry of the m. multifidus of the thoracolumbar spine in the horse
Authors: Halsberghe B. T. , Gordon‐Ross P. , Peterson R.
Published: October 2016

Whole body vibration (WBV) has been used as an adjunctive therapy to improve the strength and size of paraspinal muscles as well as postural control in people with lower back pain. It has been proposed that activation of the m. multifidus plays a key role. As the function and anatomy of the m. multifidus in the horse is comparable to that in man, the authors investigated whether WBV might also be a valuable physiotherapeutic modality in horses. The effects of WBV on the cross‐sectional area (CSA) and left to right symmetry of the m. multifidus at various locations of the thoracolumbar spine of the horse was evaluated in a single‐subject quasi‐experimental time‐series design with repeated measure. Nine horses were subject to WBV, 30 min, twice daily, 5 days a week, for 60 days in addition to their regular exercise routine. The CSA of the left and right m. multifidus was measured ultrasonographically at four levels (T15–T16, T16–T17, T18–L1 and L1–L2) along the thoracolumbar spine at Days −30, 0, 30 and 60 of the study. Changes in the CSA and CSA symmetry (left to right) of the m. multifidus were analysed using nonparametric, repeated measures, comparison of mean ranks with post‐hoc analysis as necessary. A significant increase (P<0.05) in m. multifidus CSA was found at all spinal levels after 30 and 60 days of WBV and a statistically significant improvement in m. multifidus symmetry (becoming more symmetrical) was found after 60 days of WBV, indicating that WBV may be a valuable alternative to dynamic mobilisation exercises when an increase in size and improvement in left to right symmetry of the m. multifidus is sought.
Do rivermouths alter nutrient and seston delivery to the nearshore?
Authors: Larson James H. , Frost Paul C. , Vallazza Jon M. , Nelson John C. , Richardson William B.
Published: October 2016

Tributary inputs to lakes and seas are often measured at riverine gages, upstream of lentic influence. Between these riverine gages and the nearshore zones of large waterbodies lie rivermouths, which may retain, transform and contribute materials to the nearshore zone. However, the magnitude and timing of these rivermouth effects have rarely been measured.

During the summer of 2011, 23 tributary systems of the Laurentian Great Lakes were sampled from river to nearshore for dissolved and particulate carbon (C), nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) concentrations, as well as bulk seston and chlorophyll a concentrations. Three locations per system were sampled: in the upstream river, in the nearshore zone and at the outflow from the rivermouth to the lake. Using stable oxygen isotopes, a water‐mixing model was developed to estimate the nutrient concentration that would occur at the rivermouth if mixing was strictly conservative (i.e. if no processing occurred within the rivermouth). Deviations between these conservative mixing estimates and measured nutrient concentrations were identified as rivermouth effects on nutrient concentrations.

Rivermouths had higher concentration of C and P than nearshore areas and more chlorophyll a than upstream river waters. Compared to the conservative mixing model, rivermouths as a class appeared to be summer‐time sources of N, P and chlorophyll a. Substantial among rivermouth variation occurred both in the effect size and direction for all constituents.

Using principal component analysis, two groups of rivermouths were identified: rivermouths that had a large effect on most constituents and those that had very little effect on any of the measured constituents. ‘High‐effect’ rivermouths had more abundant upstream croplands, which were presumably the sources of inorganic nutrients. Cross‐validated models built using characteristics of the rivermouth were not good predictors of variation in rivermouth effects on most constituents.

For consumers feeding on seston and microbes and vascular autotrophs directly taking up dissolved nutrients, rivermouths are more resource‐rich than upstream riverine or nearby Great Lakes waters. Given declines over time in open‐lake productivity within the Great Lakes, rivermouths may contribute more productivity than their size would suggest to the Great Lakes food web.
Do specific NMDA receptor subunits act as gateways for addictive behaviors?
Authors: Hopf F. W.
Published: October 2016

Addiction to alcohol and drugs is a major social and economic problem, and there is considerable interest in understanding the molecular mechanisms that promote addictive drives. A number of proteins have been identified that contribute to expression of addictive behaviors. NMDA receptors (NMDARs), a subclass of ionotropic glutamate receptors, have been of particular interest because their physiological properties make them an attractive candidate for gating induction of synaptic plasticity, a molecular change thought to mediate learning and memory. NMDARs are generally inactive at the hyperpolarized resting potentials of many neurons. However, given sufficient depolarization, NMDARs are activated and exhibit long‐lasting currents with significant calcium permeability. Also, in addition to stimulating neurons by direct depolarization, NMDARs and their calcium signaling can allow strong and/or synchronized inputs to produce long‐term changes in other molecules (such as AMPA‐type glutamate receptors) which can last from days to years, binding internal and external stimuli in a long‐term memory trace. Such memories could allow salient drug‐related stimuli to exert strong control over future behaviors and thus promote addictive drives. Finally, NMDARs may themselves undergo plasticity, which can alter subsequent neuronal stimulation and/or the ability to induce plasticity. This review will address recent and past findings suggesting that NMDAR activity promotes drug‐ and alcohol‐related behaviors, with a particular focus on GluN2B subunits as possible central regulators of many addictive behaviors, as well as newer studies examining the importance of non‐canonical NMDAR subunits and endogenous NMDAR cofactors.
Climate Change and Food Systems Research: Current Trends and Future Directions
Authors: Nelson Michael , Zak Kevin , Davine Toby , Pau Stephanie
Published: October 2016

Rising mean temperatures, sea‐level rise, and the increasing frequencies of extreme climate events, such as drought and heat waves, are expected to destabilize global food systems. In response to this challenge, there has been a growing body of research seeking to address climate change impacts on food systems. To evaluate the current directions of climate change and food systems research, we undertook a literature search of 196 peer‐reviewed articles on the topic of climate change and food systems. Studies varied in scope and methodology, and many were framed in the context of food security. Three recurring themes within climate change and food systems research were identified: (1) vulnerability and adaptation, (2) sustainable food systems, and/or (3) biophysical impacts on food production. Additionally, we identified research gaps and discernible directions for future research. Our synthesis suggests that much of the current climate change and food systems research neglects systems‐based perspectives to conceptualizing problems and solutions, there is little consideration of the differential impacts of biophysical drivers and associated outcomes in different regions, and finally, there is a lack of critical perspectives addressing underlying political structures that maintain current food systems. We suggest that future research bridge these gaps if we are to adequately address the inherently complex nature of food systems under a changing climate.
Coronary artery calcification in Korean patients with incident dialysis
Authors: Bae Eunjin , Seong Eun Yong , Han Byoung‐Geun , Kim Dong Ki , Lim Chun Soo , Kang Shin‐Wook , Park Cheol Whee , Kim Chan‐Duck , Shin Byung Chul , Kim Sung Gyun , Chung Wookyung , Park Jae Yoon , Lee Joo Yeon , Kim Yon Su
Published: October 2016

Introduction: Patients with chronic kidney disease have an extremely high risk of developing cardiovascular disease (CVD). In patients with end‐stage renal disease (ESRD), coronary artery calcification (CAC) is associated with increased mortality from CVD.

Methods: The present study aimed to investigate the risk factors for CAC in Korean patients with incident dialysis. Data on 423 patients with ESRD who started dialysis therapy between December 2012 and March 2014 were obtained from 10 university‐affiliated hospitals. CAC was identified by using noncontrast‐enhanced cardiac multidetector computed tomography. The CAC score was calculated according to the Agatston score, with CAC‐positive subjects defined by an Agatston score >0.

Findings: Patients' mean age was 55.6 ± 14.6 years, and 64.1% were men. The CAC‐positive rate was 63.8% (270 of 423). Results of univariate analyses showed significant differences in age, sex, etiology of ESRD and comorbid conditions according to the CAC score. However, results of multiple regression analysis showed that only a higher age was significantly associated with the CAC score. Receiver operating characteristic curves showed that the sensitivity and specificity of L‐spine radiography for diagnosing CAC were 56% and 91%, respectively, for diagnosing CAC (area under the curve, 0.735).

Discussion: CAC was frequent in patients with incident dialysis, and multiple regression analysis showed that only age was significantly associated with the CAC score. In addition, L‐spine radiography could be a helpful modality for diagnosing CAC in patients with incident dialysis.
Presenting a New, Non‐Hormonally Mediated Cyclic Headache in Women: End‐Menstrual Migraine
Authors: Calhoun Anne H. , Gill Nicole
Published: October 2016

Background

This retrospective observational study describes what appears to be a not‐uncommon yet not previously typified headache disorder, “end‐menstrual migraine” (EMM) named for its proximate occurrence with the terminal days of menstrual bleeding each month.

Methods

Our menstrual migraine (MM) clinic's database was queried for patients with migraine, regular menses, and the locally used diagnostic code of EMM, signifying the patient's assertion that she had migraine at the end of menses as well as calendar data confirming that association. Serum ferritin levels were available for all subjects with EMM.

Results

Among the most recently seen 119 women in the clinic, 85 had both regular menses and a diagnosis of migraine, and were thus appropriate for evaluation. In this selected population, 30 women (35.3%) were confirmed to have EMM. Twenty‐eight of those 30 patients (93.3%) had ferritin levels that fell below the generally accepted lower desirable limit of 50 ng/mL (mean = 21.9 ng/mL) – half of whom fell below 18 ng/mL, the established minimum levels for women.

Conclusions

EMM is a common complaint in women evaluated for menstrual‐related migraine (MRM), yet these migraines occur many days after the estrogen withdrawal that precipitates MRM. The authors do not believe that EMM is hormonally mediated, but rather that it is causally related to menstrual blood loss, resulting in a brief relative anemia with consequent migraine. Further study is needed to substantiate this association, search for confounders, and evaluate response to iron therapy.
Structural and component mining of nails using bioengineering techniques
Authors: Thatai P. , Sapra B.
Published: October 2016

The human nail is one of the challenging membranes for the scientists to target and to improve the clinical efficacy of ungual formulations. The understanding of nail physiology, impact of hydration on its properties and presence of trace elements in nails as biomarkers has been explored by various researchers in clinical studies. Despite the importance of biophysical techniques for the assessment of structure and physiology of nail, minimum literature analyses biophysical, biochemical and bioanalytical approaches. However, nowadays scientists in bioengineering field are keen in developing non‐invasive, reliable and reproducible techniques for the assessment of different anatomical and functional parameters of nails for testing of ungual products.
Time of Formation of the First Supercritical Nucleus, Time‐lag, and the Steady‐State Nucleation Rate
Authors: Schmelzer Jürn W. P. , Abyzov Alexander S. , Baidakov Vladimir G.
Published: October 2016

General equations are derived for the description of correlations between average time of formation of the first supercritical nucleus, time‐lag in nucleation, and steady‐state nucleation rate. In their implementation, a set of representative equations is employed modeling the time‐dependence of the nucleation rate as proposed first by Zeldovich and advanced by a variety of other authors. The analysis is performed for both isothermal–isobaric and time‐dependent process conditions. It is shown that, in general, the time of formation of the first supercritical nucleus depends both on time‐lag and the average time of formation of a supercritical nucleus at steady‐state conditions. The conditions are specified at which one of these characteristic times may dominate. In contrast to alternative statements it is also demonstrated that for isothermal–isobaric conditions, due to the Poisson character of nucleation, steady‐state nucleation rates can be determined without having at one's disposal a detailed knowledge of the time‐lag and the kinetic laws of approach of steady‐state nucleation conditions. Results of molecular‐dynamics simulations of crystal nucleation in Lennard‐Jones liquids are presented for an illustration of the general conclusions. Several applications of the results to the interpretation of experimental data are discussed.
PROTECTED-UK – Clinical pharmacist interventions in the UK critical care unit: exploration of relationship between intervention, service characteristics and experience level
Authors: Rudall Nicola , McKenzie Catherine , Landa June , Bourne Richard S , Bates Ian , Shulman Rob
Published: October 2016

Purpose

Clinical pharmacist (CP) interventions from the PROTECTED-UK cohort, a multi-site critical care interventions study, were further analysed to assess effects of: time on critical care, number of interventions, CP expertise and days of week, on impact of intervention and ultimately contribution to patient care.

Methods

Intervention data were collected from 21 adult critical care units over 14 days. Interventions could be error, optimisation or consults, and were blind-coded to ensure consistency, prior to bivariate analysis. Pharmacy service demographics were further collated by investigator survey.

Key findings

Of the 20 758 prescriptions reviewed, 3375 interventions were made (intervention rate 16.1%). CPs spent 3.5 h per day (mean, ±SD 1.7) on direct patient care, reviewed 10.3 patients per day (±SD 4.2) and required 22.5 min (±SD 9.5) per review. Intervention rate had a moderate inverse correlation with the time the pharmacist spent on critical care (P = 0.05; r = 0.4). Optimisation rate had a strong inverse association with total number of prescriptions reviewed per day (P = 0.001; r = 0.7). A consultant CP had a moderate inverse correlation with number of errors identified (P = 0.008; r = 0.6). No correlation existed between the presence of electronic prescribing in critical care and any intervention rate. Few centres provided weekend services, although the intervention rate was significantly higher on weekends than weekdays.

Conclusions

A CP is essential for safe and optimised patient medication therapy; an extended and developed pharmacy service is expected to reduce errors. CP services should be adequately staffed to enable adequate time for prescription review and maximal therapy optimisation.
Study of intra‐racial exclusion within Australian Indigenous communities using eco‐maps
Authors: Doyle Kerrie , Hungerford Catherine , Cleary Michelle
Published: October 2016

In Australia, ‘indigeneity’ is not determined by skin colour, but rather by a person's heritage, acceptance by an indigenous community, and active participation in the affairs of that indigenous community. Some people who identify as indigenous, however, have experienced ‘colourism’ – that is, experiences of social exclusion because of the colour of their skin – from non‐Indigenous and also Indigenous Australians. This paper describes research that explored the effect of intra‐racial exclusion on the mental health and wellbeing of Indigenous Australians, with a particular focus on skin colour or ‘manifest indigeneity’. Framed within a qualitative design, an eco‐map was used to guide in‐depth interviews with 32 participants that gave rise to personal stories that described the distress of experiencing intra‐racial colourism. Findings were derived from a thematic analysis that identified four major themes: ‘Growing up black’, ‘Living on black country’, ‘Looking black’, and ‘Fitting in black’. These findings are important because they suggest a way forward for mental health nurses to better understand and support the mental health and wellbeing of Indigenous Australians who have experienced social exclusion as a result of colourism.
Factors associated with psychotic relapse in patients with schizophrenia in a Pakistani cohort
Authors: Ahmad Irshad , Khalily Muhammad Tahir , Hallahan Brian , Shah Inayat
Published: October 2016

Despite a large body of research evaluating factors associated with the relapse of psychosis in schizophrenia, no studies in Pakistan have been undertaken to date to identify any such factors, including specific cultural factors pertinent to Pakistan. Semistructured interviews and psychometric measures were undertaken with 60 patients diagnosed with schizophrenia (49 male and 11 female) and their caregivers at four psychiatric hospitals in the Peshawar region in Pakistan. Factors significantly associated with psychotic relapse included treatment non‐adherence, comorbid active psychiatric illnesses, poor social support, and high expressed emotion in living environments (P < 0.05). The attribution of symptoms to social and cultural values (97%) and a poor knowledge of psychosis by family members (88%) was also prevalent. In addition to many well‐documented factors associated with psychotic relapse, beliefs in social and cultural myths and values were found to be an important, and perhaps treatable, factor associated with relapse of psychosis in Pakistan. The provision of evidence‐based psychotherapeutic interventions, such as behaviour and family therapy and cognitive behaviour therapy for psychosis, could potentially ameliorate the relapse rate of psychosis in Pakistan.
Potassium‐Based Geopolymer Composites Reinforced with Chopped Bamboo Fibers
Authors: Sankar Kaushik , Sá Ribeiro Ruy A. , Sá Ribeiro Marilene G. , Kriven Waltraud M.
Published: October 2016

Bamboo is a fast‐growing, readily available natural material with tensile specific strength equivalent to that of steel (250–625 MPa/g/cm3). In the pursuit of sustainable construction materials, a composite was made with potassium polysialate siloxo geopolymer as the matrix and randomly oriented chopped bamboo fibers (Guadua angustifolia) from the Amazon region as the reinforcement. Four‐point flexural strength testing of the geopolymer composite reinforced with bamboo fibers was carried out according to ASTM standard C78/C78M‐10e1. Potassium‐based metakaolin geopolymer reinforced with 5 wt% (8 vol%) untreated bamboo fibers yielded 7.5 MPa four‐point flexural strength. Scanning electron microscopy and optical microscopy were used to investigate the microstructure. In addition, X‐ray diffraction was used to confirm the formation of geopolymer.
Selectivity of Hydrophilic and Hydrophobic TiO2 for Organic‐Based Dispersants
Authors: Yang Ting‐Yi , Chang Shinn‐Jen , Li Chia‐Chen , Huang Pei‐Hsuan
Published: October 2016

The effects of the surface chemistry of TiO2 powders on the dispersion performance of various dispersants are studied. Four common dispersants (oleic acid, oleylamine, oleyl phosphate, and tris‐(2‐butoxyethyl) phosphate) with different functional groups (carboxyl (–COOH), amino (–NH2), phosphate (–P(=O)(OH)2), and –P(=O)) are investigated for their potential to disperse hydrophilic and hydrophobic titania (TiO2) powders. The outcomes, based on adsorption kinetics, adsorption isotherms, rheologies, and theoretical calculations, indicate that the hydrophilic TiO2 is more sensitive to the chemistry of dispersants as compared to the hydrophobic TiO2. However, the relative dispersion efficiencies of the dispersants are not found relevant to the adsorption kinetics, which is dominated by the adsorption amount. In addition, hydrogen bonding between –OH groups of the phosphate‐based dispersants dominates their dispersion ability for TiO2.
Efficient Near Infrared to Visible and Near‐Infrared Upconversion Emissions in Transparent (Tm3+, Er3+)‐α‐Sialon Ceramics
Authors: Kshetri Yuwaraj K. , Joshi Bhupendra , Diaz‐Torres Luis Armando , Lee Soo Wohn
Published: October 2016

Intense visible and near‐infrared frequency upconversion and a frequency downconversion photoluminescence have been reported for the first time in Tm3+ and Er3+ co‐doped transparent α‐Sialon ceramics under 980 nm excitation. The α‐Sialon ceramics were prepared by hot‐press sintering technique. Intense upconversion bands at 554, 678, 803 nm, and a downconversion band at 1530 nm were observed as a result of the efficient energy transfer between Er3+ and Tm3+ ions. The quadratic dependence of upconversion intensities on the excitation power indicates that the upconversion process is governed by two‐photon absorption process. The sintered samples of thickness 0.20 mm have transparency above 80% in the range of 2000 to 4200 nm and it reaches as high as 82% at 3350 nm. Moderately low phonon energy was found with the highest frequency band at 828 cm−1. These novel properties manifest the potential applications of transparent α‐Sialon ceramics as a multifunctional material.
Young Children as Curators
Authors: Hope Alice
Published: October 2016

Literature that addresses young children's learning in galleries and museums typically concentrates on what is already offered and discusses what has proven to be effective, or not, in accommodating their needs. This article offers insight into how objects can be explored with early years children at school, to create greater understanding of galleries, museums and their collections. I argue that through an exploration of curation as a meaning making process, children transfer experiences to make meaning in other contexts that place high value on learning in and through art and artefacts. I present a case study carried out in a Tower Hamlets primary school where children, aged 4–5, were invited to collect and display objects in a role‐play ‘museum’, with the aim of presenting artefacts typically used in their classroom. They were encouraged to make new meaning from familiar objects through a curatorial process involving creative display and role play. This project enabled young children to address their own ‘heritage’ rather than the more typical situation in which children are taken to museums in order to learn about that of others. The findings of this study highlight values that young children place upon museums, emphasising the need for greater interaction and play when engaging with objects in educational contexts. When young children are allowed to assign their own meaning to objects by transforming their purpose, they are more likely to develop an understanding of the intentions of museums and develop more curiosity towards the curatorial decisions made by others.
A mixed‐methods systematic review of the effects of mindfulness on nurses
Authors: Guillaumie Laurence , Boiral Olivier , Champagne Julie
Published: October 2016

Aim

To review the effects of mindfulness‐based interventions on Registered Nurses and nursing students.

Background

Work‐related stress among nurses is estimated to be the biggest occupational health problem after musculoskeletal disorders.

Design

A mixed‐method systematic review incorporating quantitative and qualitative data was conducted.

Data sources

Studies on the effects of mindfulness‐based interventions for nurses and nursing students published between 1980 and 2014 were identified through a systematic search in electronic databases: Medline, Embase, PsycINFO, Cochrane Library and Cinahl.

Review methods

Data analysis was conducted based on the framework of Thomas and Harden (2004).

Results

A total of 32 studies, including 17 controlled designs, 11 pre–post designs and four qualitative designs were reviewed. Meta‐analysis suggests that mindfulness‐based interventions may be effective in significantly reducing state anxiety and depression at posttreatment and state anxiety and trait anxiety at follow‐up. Qualitative studies and uncontrolled studies shed light on benefits overlooked in RCTs, including improvements in the well‐being of individuals (e.g. inner state of calmness, awareness and enthusiasm) and improved performance at work (better communication with colleagues and patients, higher sensitivity to patients’ experiences, clearer analysis of complex situations and emotional regulation in stressful contexts).

Conclusions

Mindfulness appeared to improve nurses’ mental health significantly. It could be used in worksite health promotion programmes. Only a few studies have explored the impact of mindfulness on nurses’ professional behaviours and their relationships with patients and colleagues. Future research should further explore the long‐term impacts of mindfulness on performance and well‐being at work using sound methodological designs.
Parent‐Related Stress of Male and Female Carers of Adolescents with Intellectual Disabilities and Carers of Children within the General Population: A Cross‐Sectional Comparison
Authors: Patton Kiri A. , Ware Robert , McPherson Lyn , Emerson Eric , Lennox Nicholas
Published: October 2016

Background

Carers of children with intellectual disability show high rates of parent‐related stress and are at an increased risk for deleterious physical and mental health.

Materials and Methods

This study investigated the relationship between demographic and social characteristics and parenting stress, within two different cross‐sectional samples of carers: those who care for an adolescent with an intellectual disability and carers from a population based sample. Participants were 1152 carers from the Household Income and Labour Dynamic in Australia study and 284 carers of adolescents with intellectual disabilities from the Ask study.

Results and Conclusions

The results supported previous research suggesting carers of children with intellectual disabilities experience high parent‐related stress. The results also support the buffer model of social support, as high social support was related to lower parent‐related stress. Self‐rated prosperity, financial pressure and relationship status were also related to lower levels of parent‐related stress.
Marine island biogeography. Response to comment on ‘Island biogeography: patterns of marine shallow‐water organisms’
Authors: Hachich Nayara F. , Bonsall Michael B. , Arraut Eduardo M. , Barneche Diego R. , Lewinsohn Thomas M. , Floeter Sergio R.
Published: October 2016

In this response we have incorporated data on gastropod and seaweed biodiversity referred to by Ávila et al. (2016, Journal of Biogeography, doi:10.1111/jbi.12816) to allow an updated analysis on marine shallow‐water biogeography patterns. When compared to the biogeography patterns reported in Hachich et al. (2015, Journal of Biogeography, 42, 1871–1882), we find (1) no differences in the patterns originally reported for reef fish or seaweeds, (2) minor differences in gastropod species–area and species–age patterns and (3) a significant difference for the gastropod species‐isolation pattern. In our original work, we reported that there was limited evidence that gastropod species richness was influenced by island isolation; however, our new analysis reveals a power‐model relationship between these variables. Thus, we are now able to conclude that gastropod species diversity, whose dispersal capacity is intermediate between seaweeds (lowest) and reef fish (highest), is also influenced by island isolation.
Phylogeographical insight into the Aleutian flora inferred from the historical range shifts of the alpine shrub Therorhodion camtschaticum (Pall.) Small (Ericaceae)
Authors: Hata Daijiro , Higashi Hiroyuki , Yakubov Valentin , Barkalov Vyacheslav , Ikeda Hajime , Setoguchi Hiroaki
Published: October 2016

Aim

The Aleutian Islands, one of the southern margins of Beringia, were covered with ice caps during the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM). Although insular refugia for animal species have been hypothesized in this region, phylogeographical studies have never explored the biogeographical history of plant species. We aim to assess the population history of the flora of the Aleutian Islands and its biogeographical relevance to East Asia.

Location

The Aleutian Islands, Kamchatka, the Japanese Archipelago.

Methods

We sequenced seven nuclear loci from the alpine shrub Therorhodion camtschaticum (Pall.) Small (Ericaceae) and elucidated the geographical distribution of genetic variation. The divergence history among populations from the Aleutian Islands, Kamchatka and northern Japan was inferred by analyses based on coalescent simulations.

Results

Populations were genetically distinct between northern Japan and Beringia. In spite of the genetic differentiation, the divergence between Beringia and northern Japan occurred during or after the last glacial period [maximum‐likelihood estimates (MLEs) = 10.6–15.5 ka with 95% highest posterior densities (HPDs): 1.7–43.5 ka]. The latter region has a larger population size than the former region. In contrast, widespread genetic similarity was revealed among the geographically separated populations in the Aleutian Islands and southern Kamchatka. Among these populations, a model assuming population decline fits better than a model that assumes either constant population size or population growth.

Main conclusions

Our study suggests that insular refugia were unlikely for T. camtschaticum in the Aleutian Islands. Instead, T. camtschaticum may have had a wider range during LGM, encompassing both the Aleutian Islands and southern Kamchatka, or have colonized the Aleutian Islands from a LGM refugium that was the source of colonization into southern Kamchatka as well or encompassed the latter region. Our study provides novel insight into the biogeographical history of terrestrial biota in the Aleutian Islands.
European Military Capabilities: Enablers and Constraints on EU Power?
Authors: Schilde Kaija
Published: October 2016

How should we understand the role of the EU in the world – and its relational power vis‐à‐vis other international actors? And to what degree is the Russia–Ukraine crisis a critical juncture in EU power dynamics over time? This contribution to this Special Issue evaluates EU power through the lens of material power and capabilities, and analyzes patterns and changes in material capabilities as indicators of threat and strategic assessments. The findings demonstrate the Russia–Ukraine crisis as one critical juncture in the weight and means of EU military power/capabilities, representing a partial but significant shift away from the overall national tendencies of reducing military spending across Europe, and the decade‐long trends of strategic goals towards mobilizing EU military power outside of Europe. It also marks a deepening of strategic divergences across the EU regarding national clusters of capability development.
Increased mitochondrial fusion in a autosomal recessive CMT2A family with mitochondrial GTPase mitofusin 2 mutations
Authors: Codron Philippe , Chevrollier Arnaud , Kane Mariame S. , Echaniz‐Laguna Andoni , Latour Philippe , Reynier Pascal , Bonneau Dominique , Verny Christophe , Procaccio Vincent , Lenaers Guy , Cassereau Julien
Published: October 2016

Charcot‐Marie‐Tooth type 2A disease (CMT2A) is an inherited peripheral neuropathy mainly caused by mutations in the MFN2 gene coding for the mitochondrial fusion protein mitofusin 2. Although the disease is mainly inherited in a dominant fashion, few cases of early‐onset autosomal recessive CMT2A (AR‐CMT2A) have been reported in recent years. In this study, we characterized the structure of the mitochondrial network in cultured primary fibroblasts obtained from AR‐CMT2A family members. The patient‐derived cells showed an increase of the mitochondrial fusion with large connected networks and an increase of the mitochondrial volume. Interestingly, fibroblasts derived from the two asymptomatic parents showed similar changes to a lesser extent. These results support the hypothesis that AR‐CMT2A‐related MFN2 mutations acts through a semi‐dominant negative mechanism and suggest that other biological parameters might show mild alterations in asymptomatic heterozygote AR‐CMT2A patients. Such alterations could be useful biomarkers helping to distinguish MFN2 mutations from variants, a growing challenge with the advent of next generation sequencing into routine clinical practice.
Study of Predatory Open Access Nursing Journals
Authors: Oermann Marilyn H. , Conklin Jamie L. , Nicoll Leslie H. , Chinn Peggy L. , Ashton Kathleen S. , Edie Alison H. , Amarasekara Sathya , Budinger Susan C.
Published: October 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to identify predatory journals in nursing, describe their characteristics and editorial standards, and document experiences of authors, peer reviewers, and editors affiliated with these journals.

Design

Using two sources that list predatory journals, the research team created a list of nursing journals. In Phase One, the team collected data on characteristics of predatory nursing journals such as types of articles published, article processing charge, and peer review process. In Phase Two, the team surveyed a sample of authors, reviewers, and editors to learn more about their experiences with their affiliated journals.

Methods

Data from the review of predatory nursing journals were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Written comments were summarized and categorized.

Findings

There were 140 predatory nursing journals from 75 publishers. Most journals were new, having been inaugurated in the past 1 to 2 years. One important finding was that many journals only published one or two volumes and then either ceased publishing or published fewer issues and articles after the first volume. Journal content varied widely, and some journals published content from dentistry and medicine, as well as nursing. Qualitative findings from the surveys confirmed previously published anecdotal evidence, including authors selecting journals based on spam emails and inability to halt publication of a manuscript, despite authors’ requests to do so.

Conclusions

Predatory journals exist in nursing and bring with them many of the “red flags” that have been noted in the literature, including lack of transparency about editorial processes and misleading information promoted on websites. The number of journals is high enough to warrant concern in the discipline about erosion of our scholarly literature.

Clinical Relevance

Nurses rely on the published literature to provide evidence for high‐quality, safe care that promotes optimal patient outcomes. Research published in journals that do not adhere to the highest standards of publishing excellence have the potential to compromise nursing scholarship and is an area of concern.
What is the existing evidence supporting the efficacy of compression bandage systems containing both elastic and inelastic components (mixed‐component systems)? A systematic review
Authors: Welsh Lynn
Published: October 2016

Aims and objectives

To analyse current evidence on the efficacy of bandage systems containing both elastic and inelastic components (mixed‐component systems).

Background

International consensus on the efficacy of types of compression systems is difficult to achieve; however, mixed‐component systems are being promoted as combining the best properties of both elastic and inelastic bandage systems and increasingly being used to treat venous leg ulcers in practice.

Design

A systematic literature review.

Methods

Search terms such as venous leg ulcer, varicose ulcer, leg ulcer, compression, bandage, elastic, inelastic, short stretch, healing rate, interface pressure, mixed component, two‐layer, four‐layer and multi‐layer were used in database and hand searches in several combinations. Limits were set for years 2005–March 2015 and English‐language publications.

Results

A total of 475 studies were identified at initial search, and following elimination from abstract and title, this was reduced to 7. A further study was identified on Google Scholar, bringing the final number of studies fitting inclusion criteria to 8. The following subgroups relating to outcomes of efficacy were identified: ulcer healing, maintenance of interface pressure, slippage, ease of application and patient quality of life.

Conclusions

Mixed‐component systems were found to have comparable ulcer healing rates to alternative compression systems and be easy to apply; have similar abilities to maintain pressure as four‐layer bandages and better abilities than short‐stretch bandages; have less slippage than alternative systems; and to be significantly associated with several favourable quality of life outcomes. Clinician skill in bandage application was an uncontrolled variable in all eight papers included in the review, which may limit reliability of findings.

Relevance to clinical practice

This review synthesises existing evidence on the efficacy of mixed‐component systems and encourages clinicians to regard them as an effective alternative to purely elastic or inelastic compression systems. Additionally, it highlights the importance of clinician skill in bandage application as a crucial determinant of effective compression.
Patient perspectives on answering questions about sexual orientation and gender identity: an integrative review
Authors: Bjarnadottir Ragnhildur I , Bockting Walter , Dowding Dawn W
Published: October 2016

Aims and objectives

To examine patients’ perceptions of being asked about their sexual orientation and gender identity in the healthcare setting.

Background

Health disparities exist in the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender population, but further research is needed to better understand these disparities. To address this issue, experts recommend the routine collection of sexual orientation and gender identity data in health care. Nurses on the front line of patient care play a key role in the collection of these data. However, to enable nurses to conduct such assessments it is important to understand the perspective of the patients on being asked about their sexual orientation and gender identity in a healthcare setting.

Design

An integrative review was conducted using the methodology proposed by Whittemore and Knafl (Journal of Advanced Nursing, 2005, 52, 546).

Methods

Six electronic databases were searched, and two reviewers independently reviewed papers for inclusion. Papers were included if they were empirical studies, peer‐reviewed papers or reports, assessing patient perspectives on discussing sexual orientation and gender identity in the healthcare setting.

Results

Twenty‐one relevant studies that met the inclusion criteria were identified. A majority of the studies indicated patients’ willingness to respond to, and a perceived importance of, questions about sexual orientation and gender identity. However, fears of homophobia and negative consequences hindered willingness to disclose this information.

Conclusions

This review indicates that in most cases patients are willing to answer routine questions about their sexual orientation in the healthcare setting and perceive them as important questions to ask.

Relevance to clinical practice

The findings of this review have implications for nurses looking to incorporate questions about sexual orientation into their routine patient assessment. The findings indicate that care providers need to be mindful of heteronormative assumptions and take steps to ensure they are knowledgeable about lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender health.
Differential micro ribonucleic acid expression profiling in ovarian endometrioma with leuprolide acetate treatment
Authors: Kiba Atsushi , Banno Kouji , Yanokura Megumi , Asada Mari , Nakayama Yusuke , Aoki Daisuke , Watanabe Tatsuya
Published: October 2016

Aim

Micro ribonucleic acids (miRNAs) play an important pathological role in endometriosis. Leuprolide acetate, an analog of gonadotropin‐releasing hormone, is widely used to treat endometriosis; however, the molecular mechanisms involved in endometriotic tissue regression remain unclear. We performed miRNA expression profiling of clinical ovarian endometrioma to obtain insight into the effects of leuprolide acetate treatment.

Methods

We obtained clinical samples from nine normal eutopic endometrium, eight ovarian endometriotic, and 12 leuprolide acetate‐treated endometriotic tissues. We compared the miRNA expression profiles of the three groups by performing TaqMan Array MicroRNA Card and bioinformatic analysis.

Results

Two miRNAs, miR‐939 and miR‐154, were upregulated in endometriotic tissue and downregulated in leuprolide acetate‐treated endometriotic tissue. Five miRNAs (miR‐146a, miR‐142‐3p, miR‐136*, miR‐125b‐1* and miR‐15b*) were unchanged in endometriotic tissue but were upregulated under leuprolide acetate treatment. Ingenuity pathway analysis using predicted target genes for the seven identified miRNAs suggested the involvement of a range of pathways, including axonal guidance, bone morphogenetic protein, phosphatase and tensin homolog and nitric oxide signaling; molecular mechanisms of cancer; and the adipogenesis and signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) pathways.

Conclusions

To our knowledge, this is the first report profiling the miRNAs of endometrioma under leuprolide acetate treatment. The expression of seven miRNAs was modulated, concomitant with the disease state. This result gives new insight into the effects of leuprolide acetate treatment. Further investigation using quantitative reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction and immunohistochemistry will allow us to validate the results of this study and to explore new therapeutic targets and biomarkers of endometriosis.
Occlusal Pressure Redistribution with Single Implant Restorations
Authors: Roque Miguel A. , Gallucci German O. , Lee Sang J.
Published: October 2016

Purpose

To describe the occlusal pressure redistribution in dental arches following placement of single posterior implant‐supported restorations in occlusion with natural dentitions.

Materials and Methods

Fifteen patients who presented for successfully osseointegrated single posterior implant restorations participated in the study. Cement‐retained, all‐ceramic implant crowns were fabricated and delivered after adjustment for interproximal contacts, fit, and uniform occlusal contacts. Occlusal pressure distribution was recorded with a digital sensor that reported contact point forces as a percentage of total pressure applied to the sensor. Measurements were taken before and after restoration for comparison. The distribution of relative occlusal stress was analyzed for statistical significance by location.

Results

The results indicated that placement of posterior implant‐supported restorations increased the bite pressure in the sextants containing the restorations by an average of 4.18% (p = 0.019) of the maximum value registered (maximum bite pressure). The contralateral occlusal load was found to decrease by 2.9% (p = 0.047) of the maximum value registered; however, there was no significant difference among or between the tooth positions.

Conclusion

Single posterior implant‐supported restorations significantly increased the percentage (%) of total occlusal pressure in the containing sextant and decreased percentage of total occlusal pressure in the contralateral sextant. When analyzing restorations by exact position, more posterior implant restorations decreased the occlusal pressure applied in anterior dentitions.
Infectious morbidity and resource use in children under 2 years old at childcare centres
Authors: del Castillo‐Aguas Guadalupe , Gallego‐Iborra Ana , Gutiérrez‐Olid Mario , Pérez‐González Olga , Moreno‐Muñoz Ginesa , Ledesma‐Albarrán Juana M
Published: October 2016

Aim

To analyse the associations between childcare centres and infectious morbidity and resource consumption.

Methods

Cohort study from birth to 2 years. Outcome variable: number and types of infections, drug consumption and medical visits. Exposure variable: attending or not attending a childcare centre. School age: 6–12, >12–18, >18–24 months.

Results

The initial cohort comprised 445 children, and the final cohort comprised 419 children.

The mean number of recurrent infections and wheezing was higher in children attending childcare centres in all age groups with significant differences. Recurrent acute otitis media was observed in the 12‐ to 18‐month group with an odds ratio of 6.04 (95% confidence interval, 1.3–27.6; P = 0.001) in the children attending childcare centres. In children older than 6 months, there was greater consumption of antibiotics, inhaled bronchodilators, oral and inhaled corticosteroids and montelukast.

Conclusions

Attending a childcare is associated with an increased frequency of recurrent infections and wheezing, as well as the consumption of antibiotics, bronchodilators, corticosteroids and montelukast.
Prevalence of past‐year dental visit among US adults, 1999–2010: comparison of trends and estimates between the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System and three national surveys
Authors: Lin Mei , Li Chien‐Hsun , Wei Liang , Naavaal Shillpa , Kolavic Gray Shellie , Manz Michael C. , Barker Laurie
Published: October 2016

Objectives

To compare estimated prevalence of past‐year dental visit (PPYDV) among US adults aged ≥18 years from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) to estimates from the Medical Expenditure Panel Survey (MEPS), National Health Interview Survey (NHIS), and National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES).

Methods

We estimated PPYDV adjusted for covariates (age, race/ethnicity, education level, poverty status, edentulism) using BRFSS, MEPS, and NHIS 1999–2010, and NHANES 1999–2004. We tested trend in overall PPYDV for BRFSS, MEPS, and NHIS from 1999–2010. For 2002 and 2010, we calculated absolute differences (AD) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) in PPYDV between BRFSS and each of the other surveys overall and among subpopulations defined by covariates. We pooled NHANES 1999–2004 data for comparison with BRFSS 2002.

Results

From 1999 to 2010, BRFSS (68.5% vs. 67.5%), MEPS (43.5% vs. 39.7%), and NHIS (63.3% vs. 59.7%) showed small but significant decreases in overall PPYDV. In 2002, estimates for overall PPYDV were highest for BRFSS (70.0%) and lowest for MEPS (43.9%) with estimates for NHIS (61.5%) and NHANES (1999–2004: 58.1%) in between; the largest AD (26.2%, 95% CI: 25.0%–27.3%) was between BRFSS and MEPS. ADs were consistent in 2002 and 2010, overall and by covariates, except among edentate persons, where PPYDV estimates from BRFSS and NHIS were similar.

Conclusions

Estimates of PPYDV from BRFSS were notably higher than estimates from MEPS, NHIS, or NHANES except among the edentate. Trends in PPYDV over time, however, were consistent across all surveys.