bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Crystal structure of (2E,4E)-5-[bis(2-hydroxyethyl)amino]-1-(4-chlorophenyl)-5-phenylpenta-2,4-dien-1-one
Authors: Golovanov Alexander A. , Vologzhanina Anna V. , Odin Ivan S. , Tret'yakova Tat'yana P. , Naumov Sergey V.
Published: October 2015

In the title compound, C21H22ClNO3, the pentadiene unit is nearly planar [maximum deviation = 0.023 (1) Å], but the carbonyl O atom deviates significantly [by 0.304 (1) Å] from its mean plane, which is twisted with respect to the phenyl and chlorobenzene rings by 71.34 (13) and 46.40 (13)°, respectively. In the crystal, inversion-related molecules are linked by two pairs of O—H...O hydrogen bonds, forming chains propagating along [01-1], enclosingR22(16) andR22(22) ring motifs. The chains are linkedviaC—H...O hydrogen bonds and C—H...π interactions into a three-dimensional supramolecular architecture.
What good soldiers are made of: the role of personality similarity
Authors: Lai Jennifer YM , Lam Simon SK , Chow Cheris WC
Published: October 2015

Purpose

– Previous studies have often yielded mixed results in relation to the similar-to-me effect on extra-role behaviors. Based on social exchange theory, the purpose of this paper is to uncover the contribution of personality similarity to organizational citizenship behavior (OCB), a type of extra-role behaviors.

Design/methodology/approach

– Questionnaire surveys were conducted in a multinational bank in Hong Kong. The participants were matched sample of 403 customer service representatives from 81 teams and their corresponding team supervisors.

Findings

– Personality similarity to peers and supervisors had a positive impact on individual OCB (OCB-I) and organizational OCB (OCB-O), respectively, through better communication and social integration. Moreover, personality similarity to peers was related only to OCB-I, whereas personality similarity to supervisor was associated only with OCB-O.

Research limitations/implications

– Subordinates perform different facets of OCB depending on the subjects they are similar to in terms of personality. Being similar to others could facilitate communication and social integration, which in turn promote OCB targeted at similar individuals. The importance of distinguishing the similarity effects of peers and supervisors separately as well as scrutinizing the effects of different forms of OCB warrants future research attention.

Practical implications

– Managers can promote OCB by enhancing communication and social integration among employees and supervisors.

Social implications

– As OCB enhances organizational effectiveness, the economic development of society in general will eventually benefit from having more effective organizations.

Originality/value

– This study addresses the inconsistent findings of previous studies regarding the impact of similarity on OCB. It demonstrates the contribution of personality similarity to OCB beyond the confounding effects of judgment bias. It also advances theory by studying personality similarity to peers in addition to the commonly studied similarity to supervisors.
Activation of inflammasome by attenuated Salmonella typhimurium in bacteria‐mediated cancer therapy
Authors: Phan Thuy Xuan , Nguyen Vu Hong , Duong Mai Thi‐Quynh , Hong Yeongjin , Choy Hyon E. , Min Jung‐Joon
Published: October 2015

Escherichia coli and attenuated Salmonella both naturally accumulate in a tumor mass, yet have distinct therapeutic efficacy: the E. coli K‐12 strain (MG1655) cannot induce as significant a tumor suppression as attenuated Salmonella typhimurium, despite similar levels of accumulation in the tumor. To elucidate the mechanism of the robust antitumor effect of S. typhimurium, the cytokine profiles elicited by bacterial colonization in tumors were analyzed. C57BL/6 mice bearing MC38 tumors were injected with Salmonella or MG1655 in the tail vein. Tumors were collected 3 days post‐infection and homogenized. Inflammasome‐related signals were measured by real‐time PCR, ELISA and western blot analysis. Only attenuated Salmonella triggered significant levels of the inflammatory cytokine IL‐1β in the tumor, whereas tumor growth was significantly suppressed. In addition, transcript levels of the core molecules of inflammasome signaling, IPAF, NLRP3 and P2X7, were significantly elevated only in Salmonella‐treated tumors. Upon direct interaction between Salmonella and BMDM, BMDM expressed inflammasome‐related proteins such as NLRP3, IPAF and caspase‐1 p10, and secreted a significant amount of IL‐1β in supernatants. Coincubation assays with BMDM and Salmonella‐treated MC38 cells (damaged cancer cells) revealed secretion of IL‐1β only when TLR4 and inflammasome were activated by both LPS and damaged cancer cells. ATP released from damaged cancer cells was also identified as a mechanism of NLRP3 activation. In conclusion, Salmonella activate the inflammasome pathway using damage signals released from cancer cells and through direct interaction with macrophages.
Efficacy of lecture‐based environmental education for biodiversity conservation: a robust controlled field experiment with recreational anglers engaged in self‐organized fish stocking
Authors: Fujitani Marie L. , McFall Andrew , Randler Christoph , Arlinghaus Robert
Published: October 2015

Fish stocking constitutes a widespread management tool for freshwater fisheries, but depending on configuration can be economically wasteful, ecologically harmful and lead to irreversible biodiversity loss. We conducted a large‐scale controlled experiment of a lecture intervention to understand whether communication of neutrally worded scientific information about sustainable fish stocking might alter anglers’ ecological knowledge and cognitions (e.g. functional beliefs and attitudes) about the benefits and potential costs of fish stocking.

Seventeen angler clubs from Germany who engage in self‐organized fish stocking were randomly assigned to receive either a stocking lecture or a control lecture (on general fish management). From each club, self‐selected anglers including water‐body managers (N = 201) completed a questionnaire on ecological knowledge and cognitions about stocking before the lecture, immediately after the lecture and 10 months later to assess long‐term retention. Data were analysed using Before‐After‐Control‐Impact analysis with club‐level random effects.

Compared to the control group (n = 86), anglers in the treatment (n = 115) showed a significant post‐lecture increase in knowledge in all six topics taught about the biological nuances of stocking and potential risks. However, there were no changes in stocking‐related attitudes or personal norms towards future stocking.

Only one knowledge domain was retained long‐term (10 months): the understanding that stocking does not always have additive fishery effects (P < 0·05). There were also trends indicating long‐term knowledge gains related to the genetic risks of stocking and the advantages of local adaptation, and a decreased functional belief in stocking efficacy (P < 0·08). These results suggest that participants may engage more cautiously in fish stocking in the future.

Synthesis and applications. Lectures will continue to be a dominant mode of environmental education due to convenience and familiarity, particularly for stakeholders participating during leisure time and in contexts where training lectures are legally required. Our results show that lectures can effectively communicate complex ecological topics and lead to knowledge gain. Lectures on natural resource management will be most effective when addressing issues of high relevance to stakeholder's interests and modifying current practices, but changes in basic cognitions may require a more active learning environment.
Effect of Product Dimensions and Surface Browning Method on Salmonella Contamination in Frozen, Surface‐Browned, Breaded Chicken Products Treated with Antimicrobials
Authors: Moschonas Galatios , Geornaras Ifigenia , Stopforth Jarret D. , Woerner Dale R. , Belk Keith E. , Smith Gary C. , Sofos John N.
Published: October 2015

Not‐ready‐to‐eat breaded chicken products formulated with antimicrobial ingredients were tested for the effect of sample dimensions, surface browning method and final internal sample temperature on inoculated Salmonella populations. Fresh chicken breast meat portions (5 × 5 × 5 cm), inoculated with Salmonella (7‐strain mixture; 5 log CFU/g), were mixed with (5% v/w total moisture enhancement) (i) distilled water (control), (ii) caprylic acid (CAA; 0.0625%) and carvacrol (CAR; 0.075%), (iii) CAA (0.25%) and ε‐polylysine (POL; 0.5%), (iv) CAR (0.15%) and POL (0.5%), or (v) CAA (0.0625%), CAR (0.075%) and POL (0.5%). Sodium chloride (1.2%) and sodium tripolyphosphate (0.3%) were added to all treatments. The mixtures were then ground and formed into 9 × 5 × 3 cm (150 g) or 9 × 2.5 × 2 cm (50 g) portions. The products were breaded, browned in (i) an oven (208 °C, 15 min) or (ii) deep fryer (190 °C, 15 s), packaged, and stored at –20 °C (8 d). Overall, maximum internal temperatures of 62.4 ± 4.0 °C (9 × 2.5 × 2 cm) and 46.0 ± 3.0 °C (9 × 5 × 3 cm) were reached in oven‐browned samples, and 35.0 ± 1.1 °C (9 × 2.5 × 2 cm) and 31.7 ± 2.6 °C (9 × 5 × 3 cm) in fryer‐browned samples. Irrespective of formulation treatment, total (after frozen storage) reductions of Salmonella were greater (P < 0.05) for 9 × 2.5 × 2 cm oven‐browned samples (3.8 to at least 4.6 log CFU/g) than for 9 × 5 × 3 cm oven‐browned samples (0.7 to 2.5 log CFU/g). Product dimensions did not (P ≥ 0.05) affect Salmonella reductions (0.6 to 2.8 log CFU/g) in fryer‐browned samples. All antimicrobial treatments reduced Salmonella to undetectable levels (<0.3 log CFU/g) in oven‐browned 9 × 2.5 × 2 cm samples. Overall, the data may be useful for the selection of antimicrobials, product dimensions, and surface browning methods for reducing Salmonella contamination.
Qualitative evaluation of a novel contingency management‐related intervention for patients receiving supervised injectable opioid treatment
Authors: Neale Joanne , Tompkins Charlotte N. E. , Strang John
Published: October 2015

Aim

To evaluate a novel contingency management (CM)‐related intervention for people experiencing complex drug problems, thereby increasing understanding of CM implementation in real‐world settings. Objectives are to provide new insights into (i) how context influences intervention delivery; (ii) aspects of intervention delivery that influence outcomes; and (iii) intervention outcomes.

Design

Qualitative realist evaluation of a novel CM‐related intervention: conditional budgets (CB).

Setting

Supervised injectable opioid treatment (IOT) clinic in England (May 2014–March 2015).

Participants

Twenty IOT clinic patients (14 men; six women); 10 IOT clinic staff (seven men; three women).

Measurements

Semi‐structured interviews systematically coded relating to knowledge and views of the intervention, experiences of delivering/receiving the intervention, and effectiveness of the intervention.

Intervention

Personal budgets provided to patients who reduced their supervised IOT while demonstrating ongoing stability.

Findings

(i) Contextual factors influencing intervention delivery included patient motivation; clarity of intervention information; prior trust in the treatment system; patient and staff involvement in intervention design; stability of the treatment setting. (ii) Aspects of delivery influencing outcomes included transparency of the eligibility criteria, rules and operating processes; rule enforcement; continued verbal information about the intervention; speed of incentive processing and receipt. (iii) Reduced drug use was difficult to attribute to CBs, as patients who did well were those most motivated to change before the intervention started. Unintended outcomes were positive (improved patient psychological wellbeing, staff job satisfaction, staff/patient relationships) and negative (patient relapse, increased staff work‐load, tensions in clinic relationships).

Conclusions

A ‘qualitative realist’ evaluation of a contingency management intervention to help address complex substance use disorder problems suggests that the programmes need to have stakeholder input, implement consistent eligibility criteria, rules and processes and be introduced into stable treatment settings where relationships are trusting and patients and staff feel secure.
Notalgia paraesthetica: A pilot study of treatment with simple exercises and stretches
Authors: Zagarella Samuel , Kapila Shivam , Fallahi Alireza
Published: October 2015

Notalgia paraesthetica is a distressing condition for which current treatments are either poorly effective or have unacceptable adverse effects. The aim of this pilot study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a programme of simple exercises and stretches for this condition. In total, 12 patients participated in a trial of simple exercises and stretches over 12 weeks, designed to relieve the sensory neuropathy caused by paraspinal muscle entrapment. Of the 12 patients 11 achieved satisfactory amelioration of their symptoms with no adverse effects. Our pilot study was unblinded and consisted of small patient numbers. Further research to evaluate this approach is warranted.
Bilateral uveal melanomas with different gene expression detected with 7 years interval
Authors: Eide Nils , Garred Øystein , Beiske Klaus , Fodstad Øystein
Published: October 2015

Purpose

To report a bilateral uveal melanoma detected in a micrometastasis study.

Method

Case report.

Results

At enucleation of a circumpapillary amelanotic mixed melanoma in a patient with ocular melanocytosis, a pigmented lesion in the other eye was detected, thought to be a naevus. BAP1 was positive showing nuclear staining of the tumour cells. Seven years later the naevus showed growth and development of a retinal detachment. FNAB disclosed monosomy 3 in the spindle tumour cells.

Conclusion

A case of bilateral melanoma with long‐term survival without metastatic diseases is reported. Different gene expressions in the two eyes were revealed. The case is a reminder that follow‐up over years is essential in patients with a uveal melanoma, especially with ocular melanocytosis.
sTREM‐1 in patients with chronic kidney disease on hemodialysis
Authors: Essa Enas S. , Elzorkany Khaled M. A.
Published: October 2015

The triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells‐1 (TREM‐1) is a member of the immunoglobulin superfamily. TREM‐1 has been implicated as an amplifier of inflammation. Soluble TREM‐1 (sTREM‐1) was investigated in different clinical conditions, but not in hemodialysis (HD) patients. We aimed to investigate sTREM‐1 as a marker of inflammation in HD patients. We investigated 40 CKD patients undergoing chronic HD treatment and 15 controls. Routine laboratory investigations in addition to CRP measured by immunoturbidimetry, TNF‐ α, and sTREM‐1 measured by ELISA were assayed in post–hemodialysis patients’ blood samples and in controls’ blood samples. CRP, TNF‐α, and sTREM‐1 levels were significantly higher in HD patients than in controls (p < 0.001 for all). sTREM‐1 was positively correlated with CRP and TNF‐α (r = +0.50, p < 0.001 and r = +0.53, p < 0.001 respectively). It was negatively correlated with hemoglobin concentration (r = −0.69, p < 0.001). Hemoglobin concentration was the significant predictor of sTREM‐1 level (p < 0.001). In conclusion, sTREM‐1 level is significantly increased in HD patients as are other pro‐inflammatory markers.
Capitalizing on Opportunistic Data for Monitoring Relative Abundances of Species
Authors: Giraud Christophe , Calenge Clément , Coron Camille , Julliard Romain
Published: October 2015

With the internet, a massive amount of information on species abundance can be collected by citizen science programs. However, these data are often difficult to use directly in statistical inference, as their collection is generally opportunistic, and the distribution of the sampling effort is often not known. In this article, we develop a general statistical framework to combine such “opportunistic data” with data collected using schemes characterized by a known sampling effort. Under some structural assumptions regarding the sampling effort and detectability, our approach makes it possible to estimate the relative abundance of several species in different sites. It can be implemented through a simple generalized linear model. We illustrate the framework with typical bird datasets from the Aquitaine region in south-western France. We show that, under some assumptions, our approach provides estimates that are more precise than the ones obtained from the dataset with a known sampling effort alone. When the opportunistic data are abundant, the gain in precision may be considerable, especially for rare species. We also show that estimates can be obtained even for species recorded only in the opportunistic scheme. Opportunistic data combined with a relatively small amount of data collected with a known effort may thus provide access to accurate and precise estimates of quantitative changes in relative abundance over space and/or time.
Trends in stage‐specific incidence of prostate cancer in Norway, 1980–2010: a population‐based study
Authors: Møller Mette H. , Kristiansen Ivar S. , Beisland Christian , Rørvik Jarle , Støvring Henrik
Published: October 2015

Objective

To estimate changes in the stage distribution of prostate cancer during the time period where opportunistic prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) testing was introduced.

Patients and Methods

Cancer stage, age, and year of diagnosis were obtained for all men aged >50 years diagnosed with prostate cancer in Norway during the period 1980–2010. Three calendar‐time periods (1980–1989, 1990–2000, and 2001–2010) and three age groups (50–65, 66–74, and ≥75 years) were defined. Birth cohorts were categorised into four intervals: ≤1915, 1916–1925, 1926–1940 and ≥1941. We used Poisson regressions to conduct both a time period and cohort‐based analysis of trends in the incidence of localised, regional, and distant cancer for each combination of age groups and calendar‐time periods or birth cohorts, respectively. Additionally, we explored the effect of cohorts on the stage‐specific incidence graphically with a Poisson regression using 5‐year age groups, and by estimating cumulative incidence rates for each birth cohort.

Results

The annual incidence of localised cancers among men aged 50–65 and 66–74 years rose from 41.4 and 255.2 per 100 000, respectively, before the introduction of PSA testing to 137.9 and 418.7 in 2001–2010 afterwards, corresponding to 3.3 [95% confidence interval (CI) 3.1–3.5] and 1.6 (95% CI 1.6–1.7) fold increases. The incidence of regional cancers increased by a factor seven among men aged <75 years. The incidence of distant cancers in men aged ≥75 years decreased by 29% (95% CI 25–33%). These findings were confirmed in the cohort‐based approach.

Conclusion

Opportunistic PSA testing substantially increased the incidence of localised and regional prostate cancers among men aged 50–74 years, which was not fully compensated by the 30% decrease in incidence of distant prostate cancers in older men.
‘Start to finish trans‐institutional transdisciplinary care’: a novel approach improves colorectal surgical results in frail elderly patients
Authors: Chia C. L. K. , Mantoo S. K. , Tan K. Y.
Published: October 2015

Aim

The frail elderly surgical patient is at increased risk of morbidity after major surgery. A transdisciplinary Geriatric Surgery Service (GSS) has been shown to produce consistently positive results in our institution. A trans‐institutional transdisciplinary Start to Finish (STF) programme was initiated incorporating seamless prehabilitation and rehabilitation to enhance the outcome further.

Method

Patients who underwent major colorectal resection in Khoo Teck Puat Hospital and were managed under the GSS from January 2007 to December 2014 were included in this prospective study. The STF programme was initiated from January 2012. The surgical outcome of patients managed under the GSS before the initiation of STF was compared with that after its implementation.

Results

There were 57 patients after the initiation of the STF programme compared with 60 patients managed before STF. There were 26.4% and 25% of frail patients in the STF group compared with the non‐STF group (P = 0.874). The mean length of hospital stay was significantly shorter in the STF group (8.4 days vs 11.0 days, P = 0.029). Functional recovery in patients available for follow‐up at 6 weeks showed 100% (46/46) recovery in the elective STF group who received prehabilitation and 95.7% (45/47) in the elective non‐STF group who did not (P = 0.157). There were no significant differences in a Clavien–Dindo complication score of Grade 3 or more and 30‐day mortality between the two groups.

Conclusion

Through a trans‐institutional transdisciplinary approach, we managed to achieve a significantly shorter hospital stay in frail patients having colorectal surgery. All elective patients who received prehabilitation achieved full functional recovery.
Normalisation theory: Does it accurately describe temporal changes in adolescent drunkenness and smoking?
Authors: Sznitman Sharon R. , Zlotnick Cheryl , Harel‐Fisch Yossi
Published: October 2015

Introduction and Aims

The multiple risk model postulates that accumulating risk factors increase adolescent drunkenness and smoking. The normalisation theory adds to this by arguing that the relation between accumulative risk and drunkenness and smoking is dependent on the distribution of these behaviours in the larger population. More concretely, normalisation theory predicts that: (i) when population level use increases, low risk adolescents will be more likely to use alcohol and cigarettes; and (ii) adolescents facing multiple risk factors will be equally likely to use alcohol and cigarettes, regardless of trends in population level use. The current study empirically tests these assumptions on five waves of nationally representative samples of Israeli Jewish youth.

Design and Methods

Five cross‐sectional waves of data from the Israeli Health Behaviour in School‐aged Children survey for Jewish 10th graders were used. Logistic regression models measured the impact of changes in population level use across waves on drunkenness and smoking, and their association with differing levels of risk factors.

Results

Between zero and two risk factors, the risk of drunkenness and smoking increases for each additional risk factor. When reaching two risk factors, added risk does not significantly increase the likelihood of smoking and drunkenness. Changes in population level drunkenness and smoking did not systematically relate to changes in the individual level relationship between risk factors and smoking and drunkenness.

Discussion and Conclusions

The pattern of results in this study provides strong evidence for the multiple risk factor model and inconsistent evidence for the normalisation theory. [Sznitman SR, Zlotnick C, Harel‐Fisch Y. Normalisation theory: Does it accurately describe temporal changes in adolescent drunkenness and smoking? Drug Alcohol Rev 2016;35:424–432]
Fruit, vegetable and vitamin C intakes and plasma vitamin C: cross‐sectional associations with insulin resistance and glycaemia in 9–10 year‐old children
Authors: Donin A. S. , Dent J. E. , Nightingale C. M. , Sattar N. , Owen C. G. , Rudnicka A. R. , Perkin M. R. , Stephen A. M. , Jebb S. A. , Cook D. G. , Whincup P. H.
Published: October 2015

Aim

To examine whether low circulating vitamin C concentrations and low fruit and vegetable intakes were associated with insulin resistance and other Type 2 diabetes risk markers in childhood.

Methods

We conducted a cross‐sectional, school‐based study in 2025 UK children aged 9–10 years, predominantly of white European, South‐Asian and black African origin. A 24‐h dietary recall was used to assess fruit, vegetable and vitamin C intakes. Height, weight and fat mass were measured and a fasting blood sample collected to measure plasma vitamin C concentrations and Type 2 diabetes risk markers.

Results

In analyses adjusting for confounding variables (including socio‐economic status), a one interquartile range higher plasma vitamin C concentration (30.9 μmol/l) was associated with a 9.6% (95% CI 6.5, 12.6%) lower homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance value, 0.8% (95% CI 0.4, 1.2%) lower fasting glucose, 4.5% (95% CI 3.2, 5.9%) lower urate and 2.2% (95% CI 0.9, 3.4%) higher HDL cholesterol. HbA1c concentration was 0.6% (95% CI 0.2, 1.0%) higher. Dietary fruit, vegetable and total vitamin C intakes were not associated with any Type 2 diabetes risk markers. Lower plasma vitamin C concentrations in South‐Asian and black African‐Caribbean children could partly explain their higher insulin resistance.

Conclusions

Lower plasma vitamin C concentrations are associated with insulin resistance and could partly explain ethnic differences in insulin resistance. Experimental studies are needed to establish whether increasing plasma vitamin C can help prevent Type 2 diabetes at an early stage.
Making maxillary barbels with a proximal‐distal gradient of Wnt signals in matrix‐bound mesenchymal cells
Authors: Figueroa Francisco , Singer Susan S. , LeClair Elizabeth E.
Published: October 2015

The evolution of specific appendages is made possible by the ontogenetic deployment of general cell signaling pathways. Many fishes, amphibians and reptiles have unique skin appendages known as barbels, which are poorly understood at the cellular and molecular level. In this study, we examine the cell arrangements, cell division patterns, and gene expression profiles associated with the zebrafish maxillary barbel, or ZMB. The earliest cellular organization of the ZMB is an internal whorl of mesenchymal cells in the dermis of the maxilla; there is no epithelial placode, nor any axially‐elongated epithelial cells as expected of an apical ectodermal ridge (AER). As the ZMB develops, cells in S‐phase are at first distributed randomly throughout the appendage, gradually transitioning to a proliferative population concentrated at the distal end. By observing ZMB ontogenetic stages in a Wnt‐responsive transgenic reporter line, TCFsiam, we identified a strongly fluorescent mesenchymal cell layer within these developing appendages. Using an in vitro explant culture technique on developing barbel tissues, we co‐localized the fluorescent label in these cells with the mitotic marker EdU. Surprisingly, the labeled cells showed little proliferation, indicating a slow‐cycling subpopulation. Transmission electron microscopy of the ZMB located these cells in a single, circumferential layer within the barbel's matrix core. Morphologically, these cells resemble fibroblasts or osteoblasts; in addition to their matrix‐bound location, they are identified by their pancake‐shaped nuclei, abundant rough endoplasmic reticulum, and cytoplasmic extensions into the surrounding extracellular matrix. Taken together, these features define a novel mesenchymal cell population in zebrafish, the “TCF+ core cells.” A working model of barbel development is proposed, in which these minimally mitotic mesodermal cells produce collagenous matrix in response to ectodermally‐derived Wnt signals deployed in a proximal‐distal gradient along the appendage. This documents a novel mechanism of vertebrate appendage outgrowth. Similar genetic signals and cell behaviors may be responsible for the independent and repeated evolution of barbel structures in other fish species.
Relationship of functional disability after a recent stroke with recurrent stroke risk
Authors: Park J.‐H. , Ovbiagele B.
Published: October 2015

Background and purpose

Post‐stroke disability status is primarily focused on recovery prognostication but the influence of post‐stroke disability on future vascular risk is unknown. The relationship between functional disability after an index stroke and risk of recurrent vascular events was examined.

Methods

A cohort analysis of 3680 recent non‐cardioembolic, non‐to‐moderate disabled [modified Rankin Scale (mRS) ≤3] stroke patients aged ≥35 years and followed for 2 years was reviewed. The mRS measured at a median of 35 days after the index stroke was analyzed as a dichotomous variable (mRS 3 vs. ≤2) and in a stepwise manner. Independent associations of post‐stroke disability by mRS score with ischaemic stroke (primary outcome), stroke/coronary heart disease/vascular death as major vascular events (secondary outcome) and all‐cause death (tertiary outcome) were analyzed.

Results

Amongst study participants, 435 (11.8%) had an mRS of 3. Compared with mRS ≤2 as no/slight disability, mRS 3 as moderate disability was associated with a higher risk of stroke (adjusted hazard ratio 1.45, 95% confidence interval 1.06–1.99). Compared with mRS 0, there was a progressively higher independent risk for each of the study outcomes: stroke, mRS 1 (1.42, 0.97–2.08), mRS 2 (1.46, 0.97–2.20), mRS 3 (1.89, 1.20–2.97); major vascular events, mRS 1 (1.31, 1.01–1.70), mRS 2 (1.31, 0.99–1.74), mRS 3 (1.46, 1.06–2.01); and all‐cause death, mRS 1 (1.75, 1.03–2.98), mRS 2 (2.49, 1.44–4.31), mRS 3 (2.72, 1.43–5.19).

Conclusion

Compared with no/slight disability, moderate disability after a recent stroke is linked to a higher risk of recurrent stroke.
Influence of oval and circular post placement using different resin cements on push‐out bond strength and void volume analysed by micro‐CT
Authors: Uzun I. , Keleş A. , Arslan H. , Güler B. , Keskin C. , Gündüz K.
Published: October 2015

Aim

To evaluate the percentage volume of voids within cement layers, to determine the push‐out bond strength of circular and oval fibre posts luted with different commercial resin cements in oval cross‐sectional root canals, and to correlate push‐out bond strength values and volume of voids of circular and oval fibre posts.

Methodology

Seventy‐two mandibular premolars with oval‐shaped root canals were selected. The specimens were divided into two main groups according to the post type (oval and circular). Groups were further divided into three subgroups (n = 24) according to resin cement type: Maxcem Elite, Rely‐X Unicem and Duo‐Link. The volumes of voids within the cements were analysed by micro‐computed tomography (micro‐CT). The bond strength was then measured using a push‐out test with an Instron universal testing machine. The failure modes were evaluated. Statistical analyses were performed using a three‐way anova, Tukey's post hoc, Pearson's correlation and chi‐square test (P = 0.05).

Results

The push‐out bond strength values were significantly affected by root canal region, post type and cement type (P < 0.001). Root canal region, post type and cement type also significantly affected void volume (P < 0.001). There was a significant interaction between post type and cement type (P < 0.001). The most frequent failure type was adhesive failure in all the groups. There was no significant correlation between the push‐out bond strength and void volume (P > 0.05).

Conclusions

Void volume did not affect push‐out bond strength of oval and circular posts luted in oval canals.
Size‐Dependent Crystal Properties of Nanocuprite
Authors: Song Junhua , Rodenbough Philip P. , Zhang Lihua , Chan Siu‐Wai
Published: October 2015

Cuprite nanoparticles from 9 nm to 1 μm with narrow size distribution (±7%) are prepared by two different methods. The lattice parameter increases up to 0.2% as the crystallite size decreases to 9 nm from micron size. X‐ray Absorption Near Edge Spectroscope study of our copper oxide nanoparticles shows mostly Cu (I) with increasing concentration of Cu (II) as decreasing crystal sizes. The size effect in Cu(II)/Cu(I) ratio indicates that at smaller crystal size, the Cu2O tends to be more oxidized at higher charge state with Cu(I)‐O bond. Thus, the lattice expansion can be explained by the presence of longer Cu (II)‐O bond than Cu (I)‐O bond and/or oxygen interstitials in nanocuprite.
Vesiculobullous and hemorrhagic erythema migrans: uncommon variants of a common disease
Authors: Paul Suchismita , Song Philip I. , Ogbechie Oluwatobi A. , Sugai Daniel Y. , Morley Keith W. , Schalock Peter C. , Kroshinsky Daniela
Published: October 2015

Background

The diagnosis of Lyme disease relies on the accurate diagnosis of erythema chronicum migrans (ECM) because serologic tests, culture, and polymerase chain reactions are often inaccurate. Although ECM is classically associated with a targetoid rash, there are many variants of this lesion. These variants of ECM are often initially diagnosed as cellulitis or spider bite reactions and treated with oral antibiotics. Inappropriate treatment further delays the diagnosis of Lyme disease, leading to late complications.

Methods

We present four cases of vesiculobullous and hemorrhagic ECM, a less common variant of ECM.

Results

All four patients had a history of exposure to wooded areas in Massachusetts during the summer months. In these patients, ECM presented with central vesicles and bullae with hemorrhage, crusting, and in some cases necrosis. Serologic testing was positive in three of the four cases at presentation. In one case, microscopic examination of a skin biopsy showed epidermal spongiosis with parakeratosis, focal necrosis, papillary dermal edema, erythrocyte extravasation, and a superficial and deep perivascular lymphocytic infiltrate with neutrophils and eosinophils of the dermis. No fungal organisms or bacteria were identified. All four patients were treated with doxycycline with complete resolution of symptoms.

Conclusions

It is important to recognize the vesiculobullous and hemorrhagic variants of ECM in order to minimize the provision of inappropriate antibiotic treatment for other diagnoses. Early diagnosis of ECM and the initiation of appropriate antibiotics may prevent late complications of Lyme disease.
microRNA level is raised in the hair shafts of patients with dematomyositis in comparison with normal subjects and patients with scleroderma
Authors: Inoue Minami , Jinnin Masatoshi , Wang Zhongzhi , Nakamura Kayo , Inoue Kuniko , Ichihara Asako , Moriya Chikako , Sakai Keisuke , Fukushima Satoshi , Ihn Hironobu
Published: October 2015

Background

The diagnosis of dermatomyositis is sometimes difficult. We tried to evaluate the possibility that levels of Homo sapiens microRNA‐214 (hsa‐miR‐214) in hair roots or hair shafts can be a useful marker of the disease.

Methods

A single hair root and five pieces of hair shafts were obtained from nine patients with dermatomyositis, 15 normal subjects, and 18 patients with scleroderma before treatment. RNAs were purified from the hair roots and hair shafts using commercially available kits. cDNA was synthesized from the RNA, and miR‐214 levels were measured with quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis was performed to evaluate the diagnostic performance of hair microRNA levels.

Results

The levels of miR‐214 in hair shafts of patients with dermatomyositis were significantly higher than those of normal subjects and patients with scleroderma. By receiver operator curve analysis of hair shaft miR‐214 levels to distinguish patients with dermatomyositis from normal subjects, the area under the curve was 0.90. The duration between symptom onset and the first visit to the hospital was significantly shorter in patients with elevated hair shafts miR‐214 levels, suggesting that they have more severe subjective symptoms. On the other hand, we could not find significant differences in hair root miR‐214 levels among normal subjects and patients with dermatomyositis and scleroderma.

Conclusions

Hair shaft miR‐214 levels are useful for diagnosis and evaluating the disease severity of dermatomyositis. Hair microRNA levels may have potential to be a novel and less invasive biomarker.
Association of clinical properties and compatibility of the QuantiFERON‐TB Gold In‐Tube test with the tuberculin skin test in patients with psoriasis
Authors: Karataş Toğral Arzu , Muştu Koryürek Özgül , Şahin Muzaffer , Bulut Cemal , Yağci Server , Ekşioğlu Hatice Meral
Published: October 2015

Background

Individuals with psoriasis show conflicting responses to the tuberculin skin test (TST), a commonly used screening test for latent tuberculosis infection. An alternative to TST is QuantiFERON‐TB Gold In‐Tube test (QFT‐GIT), an in vitro interferon‐gamma release assay. This study aimed to determine the effect of the clinical properties of psoriasis (disease severity and koebnerization status) on TST results and the agreement between the TST and QFT‐GIT results in psoriatic patients.

Methods

One hundred patients with mild to severe psoriasis were enrolled in this prospective cross‐sectional study. Psoriasis properties, including disease severity (psoriasis area and severity index score and koebnerization status), latent tuberculosis infection risk factors, and bacillus Calmette–Guérin vaccination history, were recorded. All patients underwent a TST and QFT‐GIT. TST positivity cut‐off point was ≥10 mm for bacillus Calmette–Guérin‐vaccinated patients and ≥5 mm for non‐vaccinated patients.

Results

Psoriasis area and severity index scores and koebnerization status did not correlate with TST diameters. Only one of the 23 koebnerization‐positive patients developed koebnerization in response to TST. QFT‐GIT positivity was prominently higher in the TST‐positive group, and this was the only factor that differed between the TST‐positive and TST‐negative groups (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Tuberculin skin test results were not affected by psoriasis severity or koebnerization status. QFT‐GIT positivity was prominently higher in the TST‐positive group (P < 0.001). Overall agreement between TST and QFT‐GIT results was moderate (κ = 0.413). Concurrent negativity (44%) was higher than concurrent positivity (27%).
RNA polymerase III autoantibodies may indicate renal and more severe skin involvement in systemic sclerosis
Authors: Terras Sarah , Hartenstein Hans , Höxtermann Stefan , Gambichler Thilo , Kreuter Alexander
Published: October 2015

Background

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a multiorgan autoimmune disorder characterized by sclerosis of the skin and organs as well as the presence of antinuclear autoantibodies. Several types of antinuclear autoantibodies have been described in SSc, associated with distinct disease entities and differences in prognosis.

Methods

The aim of this study was to screen for the presence of antibodies reacting with RNA polymerase III (anti‐RNAP3) in a large cohort of patients with SSc treated at a tertiary referral center and to evaluate correlations with disease severity.

Results

Anti‐RNAP3 antibodies were detected in 11 of 158 patients (7.0%). Eight of the 11 (72.7%) anti‐RNAP3‐positive patients had diffuse cutaneous SSc (P < 0.01). A higher modified Rodnan skin score, associated with diffuse SSc, correlated with the presence of anti‐RNAP3 (P < 0.0001). The detection of anti‐RNAP3 antibodies strongly correlated with the presence of renal involvement (P < 0.0001). The odds ratio of RNAP3‐positive patients to develop renal involvement was 80.1 (95% CI 9.3–690.1).

Conclusions

This study demonstrates that the detection of anti‐RNAP3 antibodies in patients with SSc correlates with renal crisis and severe cutaneous involvement. The possibility to detect specific antibodies with a prognostic value can lead to a better risk management of patients with SSc.
Kaposi varicelliform eruption in patients with autoimmune bullous dermatoses
Authors: Lehman Julia S. , el‐Azhary Rokea A.
Published: October 2015

Background

Viral superinfection of skin affected by preceding dermatosis has been studied extensively in eczema and reported anecdotally in pemphigus. Little is known about its involvement and complications in patients with other immunobullous diseases.

Methods

To investigate clinical features and complications of viral superinfection in patients with immunobullous diseases, we performed a retrospective chart review.

Results

We identified 12 patients with immunobullous diseases (linear immunoglobulin A bullous dermatosis, n = 2; pemphigoid, n = 3; pemphigus, n = 7) and superinfection by herpes simplex virus 1 (n = 9) or 2 (n = 3). Complications included inpatient hospitalization for intensive management of skin lesions during viral flare (n = 6), herpes keratitis (n = 1), and death due to sepsis (n = 1). Five patients previously had a skin swab negative for herpes simplex virus polymerase chain reaction before a positive test. Nine patients were taking systemic corticosteroids or corticosteroid‐sparing agents at herpetic infection; two with linear immunoglobulin A bullous dermatosis and one with a new diagnosis of pemphigus vulgaris had not.

Conclusions

Viral superinfection is a potentially serious complication in patients with immunobullous diseases. Clinicians should have a high index of suspicion for this phenomenon, even when patients are not otherwise immunosuppressed or when previous viral skin assays have been negative.
Constructing Immigrants: Portrayals of Migrant Groups in British National Newspapers, 2010–2012
Authors: Blinder Scott , Allen William L.
Published: October 2015

Public opposition to immigration in Britain reflects perceptions of immigrants that focus disproportionately on “illegal” immigration and asylum seekers, rather than more numerous workers, students, and family members. This study examines coverage of immigration in the British national press, to see whether press portrayals of migrants provide a basis for these images of immigration underlying public attitudes. We use corpus linguistic methods to analyze 43 million words of news from 2010 to 2012. Among other findings, we show that press portrayals match public perceptions of migrants, with “illegal immigrants” and “failed asylum seekers” as predominant depictions in broadsheet and tabloid newspapers.
Selected Phase Equilibria Studies in the Al2O3–CaO–SiO2 System
Authors: Haccuria Elien , Crivits Tijl , Hayes Peter C. , Jak Evgueni
Published: October 2015

The Al2O3–CaO–SiO2 system provides the basis for describing many important chemical processes. Although the system has previously been extensively studied, recent advances in experimental technique have provided the opportunity to obtain accurate liquidus measurements in the low‐silica region at fixed temperatures. The experimental procedures involve equilibration of high‐purity oxide powder mixtures at selected temperatures, rapid quenching, and accurate measurement of phase compositions using electron probe X‐ray microanalysis. The liquidus isotherms have been determined at selected temperatures between 1503 and 1873 K in the anorthite, gehlenite, pseudowollastonite, corundum, CaAl12O19, CaAl2O6, lime, Ca3SiO3, and Ca2SiO4 primary phase fields. The results are compared with currently available thermodynamic model predictions of the phase chemistry.
Expanded Strain‐Specific RT‐PCR Assay for Differential Detection of Currently Known Citrus Tristeza Virus Strains: a Useful Screening Tool
Authors: Cook Glynnis , van Vuuren Stephanus P. , Breytenbach Johannes H. J. , Burger Johan T. , Maree Hans J.
Published: October 2015

Genotypic characterization of Citrus tristeza virus (CTV) strains has progressed significantly, but their phenotypic expression is poorly established as CTV naturally occurs as mixed‐strain populations. A screening system for the analysis of mixed‐strain populations is required for population studies and the correlation with symptom expression. In this study, a published CTV strain‐specific detection assay was expanded and improved to facilitate detection of currently known CTV strains. Supplementary RT‐PCR assays were developed for two variant groups of the RB strain and the HA16‐5 strain, and assays for the T36 strain and generic CTV detection were improved. The value of the strain‐specific assays was shown by the ability to identify the strain components of two CTV cross‐protecting sources, GFMS35 and LMS6, used in the South African budwood certification scheme and to demonstrate the segregation of strains in budwood source trees.
Sixteen years later: Occurrence, group size, and habitat use of humpback dolphins (Sousa plumbea) in Algoa Bay, South Africa
Authors: Koper Renée P. , Karczmarski Leszek , du Preez Derek , Plön Stephanie
Published: October 2015

Coastal dolphins are more prone to cumulative impacts of environmental and anthropogenic changes than pelagic species. However, few studies use historical comparisons to evaluate those impacts across a temporal scale. The study presented here describes the pattern of occurrence, group size, behavior, and habitat use of humpback dolphins in Algoa Bay and compares these to a similar study conducted in the early 1990s. Results indicate a considerable change in the frequency of occurrence. Furthermore, the mean group size has decreased from six to three individuals, mainly due to an increase in occurrence of solitary individuals (36.3% vs. 15.4%). Foraging, which was previously the predominant activity (64%), has now been replaced by traveling (49%). Moreover, dolphins showed a negative reaction towards a variety of watercrafts and swimmers. These observed differences could be due to a change in prey abundance, direct anthropogenic disturbance, and/or population decline. We emphasize the need for long‐term environmental and biological data series and long‐term monitoring of the demographics of this population to accurately assess any changes observed in future.
Optimal support techniques when providing mechanical ventilation to patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome
Authors: Parissopoulos Stelios , Mpouzika Meropi DA , Timmins Fiona
Published: October 2015

Background

Adult respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a type of acute diffuse lung injury characterized by severe inflammation, increased pulmonary vascular permeability and a loss of aerated lung tissue. The effects of high fraction of inspired oxygen (FiO2) include oxygen toxicity manifested by damage to the lung parenchyma in the acute phase of lung injury. There is still a high mortality rate among this group of patients, so clinically sensitive evidence‐based interventions are paramount to maximize survival chances during critical care.

Aims and objectives

The aim of this article is to explore the current opinion concerning optimal mechanical ventilation support techniques for patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome.

Search strategy, inclusion and exclusion criteria

A literature search of clinical trials and observation studies, reviews, discussion papers, meta‐analyses and clinical guidelines written in English up to 2015, derived from the databases of Scopus, CINAHL, Cochrane Library databases and PubMed was conducted.

Conclusions

Low tidal volume, pressure limitation and prone positioning in severe ARDS patients appear to be of some benefit. More research is required and further development and use of standardized protocols is an important strategy for reducing practice variations across disciplines, as well as giving clear guidelines to nurses practising in critical care. There is also evidence that this syndrome is under‐diagnosed and the utilization of lung protective ventilation is still variable.

Relevance to clinical practice

It is important that nurses have underlying knowledge of both aetiology of ARDS and ventilation management, and that they monitor patients very closely. The adoption of a low tidal ventilation protocol, which is based on quality evidence guidelines, the value of rescue therapies and patient observation practices in the overall patient management, and the need to place emphasis on long‐term patient outcomes, all these emerge as key factors for consideration and future research. However, there is also a need for more research that would explore the unique contribution of nurses in the management of this patient group, as it is difficult to discern this in the current literature.