bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neuroendocrine changes in the hypothalamic‐neurohypophysial system in the Wistar audiogenic rat (WAR) strain submitted to audiogenic kindling
Authors: Valentim‐Lima Evandro , de Oliveira José Antônio Cortes , Antunes‐Rodrigues Jose. , Reis Luis Carlos , Garcia‐Cairasco Norberto , Mecawi Andre S.
Published: May 2021

The Wistar audiogenic rat (WAR) strain is used as an animal model of epilepsy, which when submitted to acute acoustic stimulus presents tonic‐clonic seizures, mainly dependent on brainstem (mesencephalic) structures. However, when WARs are exposed to chronic acoustic stimuli (audiogenic kindling–AK), they usually present tonic‐clonic seizures, followed by limbic seizures, after recruitment of forebrain structures such as the cortex, hippocampus and amygdala. Although some studies have reported that hypothalamic‐hypophysis function is also altered in WAR through modulating vasopressin (AVP) and oxytocin (OXT) secretion, the role of these neuropeptides in epilepsy still is controversial. We analyzed the impact of AK and consequent activation of mesencephalic neurocircuits and the recruitment of forebrain limbic (LiR) sites on the hypothalamic‐neurohypophysial system and expression of Avpr1a and Oxtr in these structures. At the end of the AK protocol, nine out of 18 WARs presented LiR. Increases in both plasma vasopressin and oxytocin levels were observed in WAR when compared to Wistar rats. These results were correlated with an increase in the expressions of heteronuclear (hn) and messenger (m) RNA for Oxt in the paraventricular nucleus (PVN) in WARs submitted to AK that presented LiR. In the paraventricular nucleus, the hnAvp and mAvp expressions increased in WARs with and without LiR, respectively. There were no significant differences in Avp and Oxt expression in supraoptic nuclei (SON). Also, there was a reduction in the Avpr1a expression in the central nucleus of the amygdala and frontal lobe in the WAR strain. In the inferior colliculus, Avpr1a expression was lower in WARs after AK, especially those without LiR. Our results indicate that both AK and LiR in WARs lead to changes in the hypothalamic‐neurohypophysial system and its receptors, providing a new molecular basis to better understaind epilepsy.
Cortical and trabecular bone structure of the hominoid capitate
Authors: Bird Emma E. , Kivell Tracy L. , Skinner Matthew M.
Published: May 2021

Morphological variation in the hominoid capitate has been linked to differences in habitual locomotor activity due to its importance in movement and load transfer at the midcarpal joint proximally and carpometacarpal joints distally. Although the shape of bones and their articulations are linked to joint mobility, the internal structure of bones has been shown experimentally to reflect, at least in part, the loading direction and magnitude experienced by the bone. To date, it is uncertain whether locomotor differences among hominoids are reflected in the bone microarchitecture of the capitate. Here, we apply a whole‐bone methodology to quantify the cortical and trabecular architecture (separately and combined) of the capitate across bipedal (modernHomo sapiens), knuckle‐walking (Pan paniscus,Pan troglodytes,Gorillasp.), and suspensory (Pongosp.) hominoids (n = 69). It is hypothesized that variation in bone microarchitecture will differentiate these locomotor groups, reflecting differences in habitual postures and presumed loading force and direction. Additionally, it is hypothesized that trabecular and cortical architecture in the proximal and distal regions, as a result of being part of mechanically divergent joints proximally and distally, will differ across these portions of the capitate. Results indicate that the capitate of knuckle‐walking and suspensory hominoids is differentiated from bipedalHomoprimarily by significantly thicker distal cortical bone. Knuckle‐walking taxa are further differentiated from suspensory and bipedal taxa by more isotropic trabeculae in the proximal capitate. An allometric analysis indicates that size is not a significant determinate of bone variation across hominoids, although sexual dimorphism may influence some parameters withinGorilla. Results suggest that internal trabecular and cortical bone is subjected to different forces and functional adaptation responses across the capitate (and possibly other short bones). Additionally, while separating trabecular and cortical bone is normal protocol of current whole‐bone methodologies, this study shows that when applied to carpals, removing or studying the cortical bone separately potentially obfuscates functionally relevant signals in bone structure.
Prevalence of distress, its associated factors and referral to support services in people with cancer
Authors: Kirk Deborah , Kabdebo Istvan , Whitehead Lisa
Published: May 2021

Aims and objectives

To (i) characterise prevalence of distress amongst people diagnosed with cancer, (ii) determine factors associated with increasing distress, (iii) describe reported problems for those with clinically significant distress and (iv) investigate the factors associated with referral to support services.

Background

International studies report a high prevalence of clinically significant distress in people with cancer. Australian studies are notably lacking. Additionally, clinicians still do not fully understand the factors associated with cancer‐related distress.

Design

Period prevalence study.

Methods

Distress screening data were analysed for 1,071 people accessing the Cancer Council Western Australia information and support line between 01/01/2016–31/12/2018. These data included people's demographics, cancer diagnoses, level of distress, reported problems and the service to which they were referred. Distress and reported problems were measured using the National Comprehensive Cancer Network Distress Thermometer and Problem List. A partial proportional logistic regression model was constructed to determine which factors were associated with increasing levels of distress. Standard binary logistic regression models were used to investigate factors associated with referral to support services. The STROBE checklist was followed.

Results

Prevalence of clinically significant distress was high. Self‐reported depression, sadness, worry and a lack of control over treatment decisions were significantly associated with increasing distress. Emotional problems were the most prevalent problems for people with clinically significant distress. Most people were referred to emotional health services, with depression, fatigue, living regionally and higher socioeconomic status associated with referral.

Conclusions

Emotional problems such as depression, sadness and worry are associated with increasing levels of distress.

Relevance to clinical practice

Not all factors associated with referral to support services were those associated with increasing levels of distress. This suggests that other factors may be more influential to referral decisions.
Effect of patient‐centred self‐management programme on mental health, self‐efficacy and self‐management of patients with hypertensive nephropathy: A randomised controlled trial
Authors: Lee Mei‐Chen , Wu Shu‐Fang Vivienne , Lu Kuo‐Cheng , Wang Wen‐Hug , Chen Yen‐Yen , Chen Hui‐Mei
Published: May 2021

Aim and objectives

To evaluate the effect of patient‐centred self‐management programme on mental health, self‐efficacy and self‐management of patients with hypertensive nephropathy.

Background

If the symptoms of hypertension are not well‐controlled, deterioration of renal function will accelerate and evolve into hypertensive nephropathy.

Design

A randomised single‐blind trial. This article follows the requirements of CONSORT statement.

Methods

The experimental group (n = 35) after pre‐test used patient‐centred self‐management programme once a week for a total of 4 weeks and the intervention effect was measured after 3 months for post‐test. Contrarily, the traditional care was employed for the control group (n = 35). The measuring outcomes included mental health, self‐efficacy and self‐management. Trial registry is listed under https://clinicaltrials.gov/ with Identifier No. NCT04633993.

Results

After the intervention, the average score of mental health for the experimental group was 20.79 (SD = 0.82) which was higher than the 19.27 points for the control group (SD = 0.77) and showed a significant difference (F = 8.31, p = .005, partial eta2 = 0.133). In terms of self‐efficacy, the average score for the experimental group was 214.13 (SD = 6.40), which was higher than the 189.58 points for the control group (SD = 6.03) and exhibited a significant difference (F = 11.82, p = .001, partial eta2 = 0.197). Regarding self‐management, the average score of the experimental group was 75.12 (SD = 2.29) which was significantly higher than the 68.80 points of the control group (SD = 2.43) (F = 11.17, p = .001, partial eta2 = 0.190).

Conclusions

In addition to promoting mental health of individual cases, this intervention also increases their self‐confidence in disease control and improves their self‐management on diseases.

Relevance to clinical practice

The intervention provides an effective option for clinical care workers as a replacement for or supplement to the traditional care.
Intracranial dolichoectasia in patients with symptomatic intracranial atherosclerotic disease: Results from the MYRIAD study
Authors: Del Brutto Victor J. , Prabhakaran Shyam , Liebeskind David S. , Campo‐Bustillo Iszet , Cotsonis George , Nizam Azhar , Romano Jose G. ,   of the MYRIAD Investigators
Published: May 2021

Background and Purpose

It is unknown whether intracranial atherosclerotic disease (ICAD), in addition to causing stenosis, also associates with abnormal arterial enlargement, a condition known as intracranial dolichoectasia (IDE). Across symptomatic ICAD patients, we aim to determine IDE prevalence and IDE impact on cerebral hemodynamics and recurrent cerebral ischemia.

Methods

We analyzed 98 participants (mean age 63.811.9 years, 56.1% men) of the prospective observational study MYRIAD. Participants were enrolled within 21 days of an ischemic stroke or transient ischemic attack caused by moderate‐to‐severe ICAD. Semi‐automatic vessel segmentation was used to determine diameters, length, and tortuosity‐index of proximal intracranial arteries. Either ectasia (increased diameter) or dolichosis (increased length or TI) defined IDE. We assessed IDE association with new infarcts during 12‐month follow‐up, and IDE correlation with cerebral hemodynamics determined by quantitative MR‐angiography (QMRA), MR‐perfusion weighted‐imaging, and transcranial Doppler breath‐holding index.

Results

IDE was present in 35.7% of patients and 10.2% of symptomatic arteries. Basilar stenosis was associated with higher IDE prevalence (27.8% vs. 8.8%,p= 0.04), whereas other symptomatic arteries showed no association with IDE. Symptomatic arteries with IDE had lower hypoperfusion prevalence on MR‐PWI (11.1% vs. 28.4%,p= 0.03). Increased diameter (r= 0.33,p<0.01) and tortuosity‐index (r= 0.29,p= 0.01) showed positive correlation with QMRA flow rate. IDE was not associated with new infarcts during follow‐up.

Conclusions

IDE was common among symptomatic ICAD patients. IDE was not associated with stroke recurrence. Instead, increased diameter and tortuosity correlated with improved blood flow across the stenotic artery, suggesting that IDE may originate as an adaptive mechanism in ICAD.
Growth performances, nutrient digestibility, ruminal fermentation and energy partition of Thai native steers fed exclusive rice straw and fermented sugarcane bagasse with Lactobacillus, cellulase and molasses
Authors: So Sarong , Cherdthong Anusorn , Wanapat Metha
Published: May 2021

The study aimed to evaluate the effect of sugarcane bagasse feeding treated with Lactobacillus casei TH14 (L. casei TH14), cellulase and molasses (BG) on nutrient digestibility, ruminal fermentation, energy partition and growth performances of Thai native steers compared to conventional feeding of rice straw (RS). Eight Thai native steers (144 ± 19.5 kg of initial body weight) were randomly allocated to two roughage sources in a completed randomized design: RS (n = 4) and BG (n = 4). The feeding trial lasted for 90 days plus 21 days for treatment adaptation. The results showed that the BG group showed (p < 0.05) greater intake (2.34 vs 2.02 kg/day), total intake (3.90 vs 3.55 kg/day) and average daily gain (0.27 vs 0.23 kg/day) while feed conversion ratio was lower compared to RS group. The BG group had a greater (p < 0.05) organic matter and acid detergent fibre intake than the RS group as well as dry matter and neutral detergent fibre digestibility. The steers fed RS and BG were significantly (p < 0.05) different for total volatile fatty acids and propionic acid at 4 h after offering the diet. The intake of nitrogen (g/day) and apparent nitrogen absorption was significantly (p < 0.05) higher for BG than the RS group while nitrogen excretion in faeces was significantly lower in RS than the BG group. BG group showed significantly (p < 0.05) greater gross energy intake and digestible energy partition when compared to the RS group. In conclusion, feeding BG enhanced feed utilization, growth performance, ruminal fermentation, nitrogen utilization and energy utilization.
An investigation and replication of sleep‐related cognitions, acceptance and behaviours as predictors of short‐ and long‐term outcome in cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia
Authors: Blom Kerstin , Hentati Isacsson Nils , Forsell Erik , Rosén Ann , Kraepelien Martin , Jernelöv Susanna , Kaldo Viktor
Published: May 2021

The objectives were to investigate the potential for sleep‐related behaviours, acceptance and cognitions to predict outcome (insomnia severity) of cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia (CBT‐I). Baseline and outcome data from four randomised controlled trials (n = 276) were used. Predictors were the Dysfunctional Beliefs and Attitudes about Sleep‐10 (DBAS‐10), Sleep‐Related Behaviours Questionnaire (SRBQ), and Sleep Problems Acceptance Questionnaire (SPAQ), and empirically derived factors from a factor analysis combining all items at baseline (n = 835). Baseline values were used to predict post‐treatment outcome, and pre–post changes in the predictors were used to predict follow‐up outcomes after 3–6 months, 1 year, or 3–10 years, measured both as insomnia severity and as better or worse long‐term sleep patterns. A majority (29 of 52) of predictions of insomnia severity were significant, but when controlling for insomnia severity, only two (DBAS‐10 at short‐term and SRBQ at mid‐term follow‐up) of the 12 predictions using established scales, and three of the 40 predictions using empirically derived factors, remained significant. The strongest predictor of a long‐term, stable sleep pattern was insomnia severity reduction during treatment. Using all available predictors in an overfitted model, 21.2% of short‐ and 58.9% of long‐term outcomes could be predicted. We conclude that although the explored constructs may have important roles in CBT‐I, the present study does not support that the DBAS‐10, SRBQ, SPAQ, or factors derived from them, would be unique predictors of outcome.
Social jetlag, a novel predictor for high cardiovascular risk in blue‐collar workers following permanent atypical work schedules
Authors: Gamboa Madeira Sara , Reis Cátia , Paiva Teresa , Moreira Carlos Santos , Nogueira Paulo , Roenneberg Till
Published: May 2021

Cardiovascular diseases cause >4 million deaths each year in Europe alone. Preventive approaches that do not only consider individual risk factors but their interaction, such as the Systematic COronary Risk Evaluation (SCORE), are recommended by European guidelines. Increased cardiovascular risk is associated with shift‐work, surely interacting with the concurrent conditions: disruption of sleep, unhealthy behaviours, and circadian misalignment. Social jetlag (SJL) has been proposed as a way to quantify circadian misalignment. We therefore investigated the association between SJL and cardiovascular health in a cross‐sectional observational study involving blue‐collar workers, who either worked permanent morning, evening, or night shifts. Sociodemographic, health and productivity data were collected through questionnaires. Blood pressure and cholesterol were measured and the cardiovascular risk was estimated according to the relative risk SCORE chart. Bivariate analysis was performed according to the cardiovascular risk and the relationship between SJL and high cardiovascular risk was analysed through logistic regression. Cumulative models were performed, adjusted for various confounding factors. After 49 exclusions, the final sample comprised 301 workers (56% males; aged <40 years, 73%). Mean standard deviation (SD) SJL was 1:57 (1:38) hr (59.4% ≤2 hr). Cardiovascular risk was high in 20% of the sample. Multivariate analysis revealed SJL to be an independent risk factor for high cardiovascular risk. Each additional hour of SJL increased this risk by >30% (odds ratio 1.31, 95% confidence interval 1.02–1.68). This is the first study indicating that SJL potentially increases cardiovascular risk, and suggests that sleep and individual circadian qualities are critical in preventing negative health impacts of shift‐work.
Species‐specific trends and variability in plant functional traits across a latitudinal gradient in northern Alaska
Authors: Betway Katlyn R. , Hollister Robert D. , May Jeremy L. , Oberbauer Steven F.
Published: May 2021

Questions

Many studies explore how plant functional traits may change as the climate warms by observing traits over environmental gradients. The amount of intraspecific variation (ITV), however, is often unknown and unaccounted for in most trait‐based studies. Our objectives are to: (a) determine if species‐level patterns across a latitudinal gradient match those of other members within the same growth form; (b) compare distributions of trait values across regions; and (c) quantify the amount of ITV within each trait relative to the amount of variation within the growth form and across taxonomic levels (family and species).

Location

Utqiaġvik, Atqasuk, and Toolik Lake, Alaska.

Methods

This study examines seven plant functional traits for 12 arctic species. Traits were measured on 10 individuals of each species at each region and analyzed using one‐way ANOVA and variance partitioning via nested ANOVA.

Results

Comparison of mean trait values across the three regions for each species showed considerable variability within a growth form. Within deciduous shrubs, for example, one species increased in specific leaf area (SLA) with latitude while another species decreased. Results from variance partitioning differed among functional traits. Across the three regions, plant height, leaf area, SLA, leaf thickness, and leaf dry matter content (LDMC) had relatively low amounts of intraspecific variation (ITV; <15%) while normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) had a high amount of ITV (>50%). All traits showed significant differences across regions for at least some species.

Conclusions

Because our results showed considerable variability in levels of ITV among functional traits, we emphasize the need to investigate ITV in trait‐based studies spanning multiple regions. Levels of ITV are important in determining how different populations respond to local environmental conditions. Incorporating ITV in studies investigating vegetation change with warming will provide more robust and reliable predictions.
Dietary taurine improved growth performance, nutrient utilization, and antioxidant enzyme activities in pangasius Pangasianodon hypophthalmus
Authors: Peter Nikhila , Pradhan Chiranjiv , Dileep Namitha , Musharraf Mohammad , Thazhakot Vasunambisan Sankar
Published: May 2021

Taurine is a β sulphonic amino acid and is conditionally essential for many fish species. In the present study, the effect of dietary taurine (tau) on Pangasianodon hypophthalmus fry (initial mean weight 0.8 ± 0.6 g) was evaluated by feeding six isonitrogenous (370 g/kg crude protein) and isolipidic (100 g/kg crude lipid) casein‐based purified diets with graded levels of tau at 0 (basal diet), 5, 10, 15, 20, and 25 g/kg feed. Fish were randomly stocked in triplicate groups in 100 L plastic tubs and fed to apparent satiation over two feedings at 10.00 and 16.00 hr daily for 45 days. Final weight, weight gain, specific growth rate, and protein efficiency ratio improved significantly (p < .05) with increasing dietary tau up to 15 g/kg feed and plateaued thereafter. Whole‐body protein content did not change beyond tau 15 g/kg feed, but carcass lipid content significantly (p < .05) decreased. The group of fish fed with tau 25 g/kg feed exhibited significantly higher (p < .05) superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione s‐transferase activity. According to the findings of this study, the optimum dietary tau content in P. hypophthalmus fry feed was estimated to be 15.05–16.31 g/kg feed as per the broken‐line regression analysis based on weight gain and nutrient utilization against dietary taurine.
Age‐specific sensitivity of sperm length and testes size to developmental temperature in the bruchid beetle
Authors: Vasudeva R. , Deeming D. C. , Eady P. E.
Published: May 2021

In an era of global warming, the negative effects of temperature stress on fertility could intensify predicted losses of biodiversity. Male fertility is particularly sensitive to temperature stress, yet we have an incomplete understanding of when, during reproductive ontogeny, spermatogenesis is most affected. Here, we used a temperature‐switch protocol to identify when during development temperature affects the expression of sperm length and testes size in the bruchid beetleCallosobruchus maculatus. Egg‐to‐adult development took place at 17°C, 27°C or 33°C for either the full duration of pre‐imago development or it was switched at different stages during development. Full development at 17°C or 33°C resulted in significantly shorter sperm than at 27°C. However, when developing larvae were switched to higher or lower temperatures, we observed switch‐specific phenotypic expression of sperm length and testes size. Our key finding was that sperm length was sensitive to high‐temperature stress during the early stages of ontogeny and to low‐temperature stress during the latter stages of ontogeny. Such age‐specific developmental sensitivity suggests that infertility resulting from transient heat stress (i.e. heatwaves) could be mitigated by age‐related developmental heterogeneity within populations. Those individuals able to avoid severe effects of heat stress on fertility, through serendipitously being at less‐sensitive stages of development, could potentially compensate for the loss of fertility experienced by those individuals at more sensitive stages of development.
Dried small fish provide nutrient densities important for the first 1000 days
Authors: Byrd Kendra A. , Pincus Lauren , Pasqualino Monica M. , Muzofa Farayi , Cole Steven M.
Published: May 2021

Inadequate nutrient intakes are prevalent among many populations in sub‐Saharan Africa and increasing fish consumption among pregnant/lactating women and children is one strategy to improve diets and address nutrient deficiencies. We report the nutrient content of two fish‐based recipes—fish powder and fish chutney—that contain dried small fish available in local markets in Zambia. The contribution of a serving of each recipe to the recommended daily intakes of iron, zinc, calcium and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) for pregnant/lactating women and children 6–24 months was calculated because these nutrients are commonly deficient in African diets. We found that one 10‐g serving of fish powder provides 20% or more of the daily calcium recommendation and 37% or more of the daily DHA recommendation for both pregnant/lactating women and children. A 30‐g serving of fish chutney provides over 40% of the daily calcium recommendation for pregnant women and over 50% for lactating women. Additionally, we investigated the nutrient density (nutrients per kilocalorie) of the fish powder and compared it with the nutrient density of a small‐quantity lipid‐based nutrient supplement plus (SQ‐LNS‐plus). SQ‐LNS‐plus is designed to enhance children's diets by providing micronutrients and DHA. Fish powder is similar to SQ‐LNS‐plus in iron and zinc density and even higher in calcium and DHA density. Consuming dried small fish as part of a daily meal can be a viable strategy for combatting nutrient deficiencies in the first 1000 days.
MicroRNA‐34a activation in tuberous sclerosis complex during early brain development may lead to impaired corticogenesis
Authors: Korotkov Anatoly , Sim Nam Suk , Luinenburg Mark J. , Anink Jasper J. , van Scheppingen Jackelien , Zimmer Till S. , Bongaarts Anika , Broekaart Diede W. M. , Mijnsbergen Caroline , Jansen Floor E. , Van Hecke Wim , Spliet Wim G. M. , van Rijen Peter C. , Feucht Martha , Hainfellner Johannes A. , Kršek Pavel , Zamecnik Josef , Crino Peter B. , Kotulska Katarzyna , Lagae Lieven , Jansen Anna C. , Kwiatkowski David J. , Jozwiak Sergiusz , Curatolo Paolo , Mühlebner Angelika , Lee Jeong H. , Mills James D. , van Vliet Erwin A. , Aronica Eleonora
Published: May 2021

Aims

Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) is a genetic disorder associated with dysregulation of the mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) signalling pathway. Neurodevelopmental disorders, frequently present in TSC, are linked to cortical tubers in the brain. We previously reported microRNA‐34a (miR‐34a) among the most upregulated miRs in tubers. Here, we characterised miR‐34a expression in tubers with the focus on the early brain development and assessed the regulation of mTORC1 pathway and corticogenesis by miR‐34a.

Methods

We analysed the expression of miR‐34a in resected cortical tubers (n = 37) compared with autopsy‐derived control tissue (n = 27). The effect of miR‐34a overexpression on corticogenesis was assessed in mice at E18. The regulation of the mTORC1 pathway and the expression of the bioinformatically predicted target genes were assessed in primary astrocyte cultures from three patients with TSC and in SH‐SY5Y cells following miR‐34a transfection.

Results

The peak of miR‐34a overexpression in tubers was observed during infancy, concomitant with the presence of pathological markers, particularly in giant cells and dysmorphic neurons. miR‐34a was also strongly expressed in foetal TSC cortex. Overexpression of miR‐34a in mouse embryos decreased the percentage of cells migrated to the cortical plate. The transfection of miR‐34a mimic in TSC astrocytes negatively regulated mTORC1 and decreased the expression of the target genes RAS related (RRAS) and NOTCH1.

Conclusions

MicroRNA‐34a is most highly overexpressed in tubers during foetal and early postnatal brain development. miR‐34a can negatively regulate mTORC1; however, it may also contribute to abnormal corticogenesis in TSC.
Measurement challenges for childhood obesity research within and between Latin America and the United States
Authors: Berrigan David , Arteaga S. Sonia , Colón‐Ramos Uriyoán , Rosas Lisa G. , Monge‐Rojas Rafael , O'Connor Teresia M. , Pérez‐Escamilla Rafael , Roberts Elizabeth F. S. , Sanchez Brisa , Téllez‐Rojo Martha Maria , Vorkoper Susan ,   the Cross Borders Working Group
Published: May 2021

Childhood obesity is a major public health challenge across Latin America and the United States. Addressing childhood obesity depends on valid, reliable, and culturally sensitive measurements. Such progress within and between countries of the Americas could be enhanced through better measurement across different age groups, different countries, and in sending and receiving communities. Additionally, better and more comparable measurements could accelerate cross‐border collaboration and learning. Here, we present (1) frameworks that influenced our perspectives on childhood obesity and measurement needs across the Americas; (2) a summary of resources and guidance available concerning measurement and adaptation of measures for childhood obesity research; and (3) three major areas that present challenges and opportunities for measurement advances related to childhood obesity, including parental behavior, acculturation, and the potential to incorporate ethnographic methods to identify critical factors related to economics and globalization. Progress to reduce childhood obesity across the Americas could be accelerated by further transnational collaboration aimed at improving measurement for better surveillance, intervention development and evaluation, implementation research, and evaluation of natural experiments. Additionally, there is a need to improve training related to measurement and for improving access to valid and reliable measures in Spanish and other languages common in the Americas.
Established soft contact lens wearers’ awareness of and initial experiences with orthokeratology
Authors: Duong Kim , Pucker Andrew D , McGwin Gerald , Franklin Quentin X , Cox Jared
Published: May 2021

Objectives

To understand the initial awareness of and experience with orthokeratology in a group of adult, symptomatic, soft contact lens (CL) wearers.

Methods

This was a prospective, 3‐month, open‐label study of symptomatic soft CL wearers who were between the ages of 18 and 45 years. Baseline measurements were taken and then all subjects were treated with orthokeratology. A dry eye evaluation was completed at baseline prior to orthokeratology treatment. This same dry eye evaluation was completed 1 week and 1 month after orthokeratology treatment. An investigator‐designed questionnaire that aimed to understand the subject’s initial awareness of and experience with orthokeratology was also administered at the baseline, 1‐week, 1‐month and 3‐month visits (perceptions, knowledge, tolerance and ability to apply and remove orthokeratology lenses).

Results

Twenty‐nine out of 40 subjects completed this study. Completed subjects (age = 24.28 ± 3.75 years) had significant improvements in ocular comfort over the course of the study compared to their soft CLs. Most subjects were unfamiliar with orthokeratology before the study, were able to quickly adapt to the treatment and were likely to recommend orthokeratology to friends or children for myopia management.

Conclusions

This study found that few subjects knew about orthokeratology before learning about it through this investigation, suggesting that patients should be offered this treatment more regularly. This conclusion is supported by the ability of the subjects to learn and adapt to orthokeratology with ease, and their likelihood to recommend it to a friend or child.
Percutaneous Endoscopic Lumbar Discectomy for Lumbar Disc Herniation Using an Endoscopic Staining: A Technical Note
Authors: Tang Jingjing , Liang Ziyang , He Jiahui , Shang Qi , Zhang Jiarui , Wu Zhihua , Jiang Xiaobing , Liang De , Ren Hui , Cui Jianchao , Zhou Zelong , Yao Zhensong
Published: May 2021

Symptomatic lumbar disc herniation (LDH) is widely treated using percutaneous endoscopic lumbar discectomy (PELD). In the present PELD surgery, performing decompression under endoscope still takes a long time to explore the rupture site of annulus fibrosus, resulting in prolonged operation time and over‐invasion of the undegenerated annulus fibrosus. A wide range of intraoperative exploration also induces an iatrogenic injury of the normal annulus fibrosus, even aggravating intervertebral disc degeneration, which may lead to early postoperative recurrence in severe case. Hence, it is important to seek a precise decompression in PELD surgery. Under this kind of realization, more spinal surgeons possibly choose a disc staining before performing decompression. However, the classical disc staining technique still has its shortcomings. First of all, an appropriate dose of staining cannot be accurately mastered, even induces unqualified staining effect. Second, the duration of surgery and the times of fluoroscopy will be increased. Finally, what surgeons see under the endoscope is the staining result but not the staining process. Hence, this is accomplished more effectively by designing procedures that perform fully visible disc staining under spinal endoscope. There is no specific research to discuss the technique note of endoscopic staining in PELD surgery. We have come up with a new original technology of endoscopic staining with methylene blue injection in PELD for treatment of LDH.
Analysis of Combined Indicators for Risk of Osteoporotic Hip Fracture in Elderly Women
Authors: Zhao Jin‐hui , Shi Hui‐peng , Jiang Da‐jun , Wang Ling‐tian , Chen Sheng‐bao , Jia Wei‐tao
Published: May 2021

Objective

To compare the accuracy of combined independent risk factors in assessing the risk of hip fractures in elderly women.

Methods

Ninety elderly females who sustained hip fractures (including femoral neck fractures and intertrochanteric fractures) and 110 female outpatients without a hip fracture were included in our cross‐sectional study from 24 November 2017 to 20 May 2019. The age of subjects in the present study was ≥65 years, with the mean age of 78.73 ± 7.77 and 78.09 ± 5.03 years for women with and without elderly hip fractures, respectively. Bone mineral density (BMD), Beta‐carboxy terminal telopeptide (β‐CTX), N‐terminal/mid region (N‐MID), and 25(OH)D levels were analyzed. A novel evaluation model was established to evaluate combined indicators in assessing hip fractures in elderly women.

Results

Compared with the control group, taller height (155.68 ± 6.40 vs 150.97 ± 6.23, P < 0.01), higher levels of β‐CTX (525.91 ± 307.38 vs 330.94 ± 289.71, P < 0.01), and lower levels of total hip BMD (0.662 ± 0.117 vs 0.699 ± 0.111, P = 0.022), femoral neck BMD (0.598 ± 0.106 vs 0.637 ± 0.100, P = 0.009), and 25(OH)D (15.67 ± 7.23 vs 29.53 ± 10.57, P < 0.01) were found in the facture group. After adjustment for confounding factors, logistic regression analysis revealed that 25(OH)D (adjusted OR 0.837 [95% CI 0.790–0.886]; P < 0.01), femoral neck BMD (adjusted OR 0.009 [95% CI 0.000–0.969]; P = 0.048) and height (adjusted OR 1.207 [95% CI 1.116–1.306]; P < 0.01) remained risk factors for hip fractures in elderly women. Then a model including independent risk factors was established. A DeLong test showed the area under the receiver operator characteristic (ROC) (Area under the curve [AUC]) of 25(OH)D was significantly greater than that for femoral neck BMD (P < 0.01) and height (P < 0.01). The AUC of model including 25(OH)D and height was significantly greater than that of other combinations (P < 0.01).

Conclusion

25(OH)D, femoral neck BMD and height were associated with the occurrence of hip fractures in elderly women even after adjustment for confounding factors, and a model including 25(OH)D and height could provide better associated power than other combinations in the assessment of elderly hip fractures.
The durability of minimally invasive lumbar decompression procedure in patients with symptomatic lumbar spinal stenosis: Long‐term follow‐up
Authors: Mekhail Nagy , Costandi Shrif , Nageeb George , Ekladios Catherine , Saied Ogena
Published: May 2021

Background

Minimally invasive lumbar decompression (mild®) has been shown to be safe and effective for the treatment of lumbar spinal stenosis patients with hypertrophic ligamentum flavum as a contributing factor. This study examines the long‐term durability of themildprocedure through 5‐year follow‐up. Pain relief and opioid medications utilization during 12‐month follow‐up were also assessed.

Methods

All patients diagnosed with lumbar spinal stenosis secondary to ligamentum flavum hypertrophy who underwentmildfrom 2010 through 2015 at the Cleveland Clinic Department of Pain Management were included in this retrospective longitudinal observational cohort study. The primary outcome measure was the incidence of open lumbar decompression surgery at the same level(s) as themildintervention during 5‐year follow‐up. Secondary outcome measures were the change in pain levels using the Numeric Rating Scale and opioid medications utilization using Morphine Milligram Equivalent dose per day from baseline to 3, 6, and 12 months post‐mildprocedure. Postprocedural complications (minor or major) were also collected.

Results

Seventy‐five patients receivedmildduring the protocol‐defined time period and were included in the study. Only 9 out of 75 patients required lumbar surgical decompression during the 5‐year follow‐up period. Subjects experienced statistically significant pain relief and reduction of opioid medications utilization at 3, 6, and 12 months compared to baseline.

Conclusion

Based on our analysis, themildprocedure is durable over 5 years and may allow elderly patients with symptomatic lumbar spinal stenosis to avoid lumbar decompression surgery while providing significant symptomatic relief.
Desire for power mediates associations between narcissism and mate retention behaviors
Authors: Zeigler‐Hill Virgil , Andrews David , Borgerding Karla
Published: May 2021

The present research examined whether the associations that narcissistic personality features had with mate retention behaviors were mediated by the desire to have more power in the relationship. Across three studies (N = 497), narcissistic personality features had divergent associations with mate retention behaviors such that the assertive/extraverted and vulnerable/neurotic aspects of narcissism often had positive associations with benefit‐provisioning behaviors, whereas the antagonistic/disagreeable aspect of narcissism had positive associations with cost‐inflicting behaviors that were mediated by the desire for power. Similar patterns emerged for those involved in heterosexual or LGBTQ relationships. Discussion focuses on the implications of these results for the role that the desire for power plays in the connections between narcissistic personality features and mate retention behaviors.
Toward Elimination of Infectious Diseases with Mobile Screening Teams: HAT in the DRC
Authors: deVries Harwin , van deKlundert Joris , Wagelmans Albert
Published: May 2021

In pursuit of Sustainable Development Goal 3 “Ensure healthy lives and promote well‐being for all at all ages,” considerable global effort is directed toward elimination of infectious diseases in general and Neglected Tropical Diseases in particular. For various such diseases, the deployment of mobile screening teams forms an important instrument to reduce prevalence toward elimination targets. There is considerable variety in planning methods for the deployment of these mobile teams in practice, but little understanding of their effectiveness. Moreover, there appears to be little understanding of the relationship between the number of mobile teams and progress toward the goals. This research considers capacity planning and deployment of mobile screening teams for one such neglected tropical disease: Human African trypanosomiasis (HAT, or sleeping sickness). We prove that the deployment problem is strongly NP‐Hard and propose three approaches to find (near) optimal screening plans. For the purpose of practical implementation in remote rural areas, we also develop four simple policies. The performance of these methods and their robustness is benchmarked for a HAT region in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Two of the four simple practical policies yield near optimal solutions, one of which also appears robust against parameter impreciseness. We also present a simple approximation of prevalence as a function of screening capacity, which appears rather accurate for the case study. While the results may serve to more effectively allocate funding and deploy mobile screening capacity, they also indicate that mobile screening may not suffice to achieve HAT elimination.
Authoritarians Go with the Flow: Social Norms Moderate the Link between Right‐Wing Authoritarianism and Outgroup‐Directed Attitudes
Authors: Górska Paulina , Stefaniak Anna , Lipowska Katarzyna , Malinowska Katarzyna , Skrodzka Magdalena , Marchlewska Marta
Published: May 2021

This research aimed to provide a more nuanced understanding of the relations between social norms, right‐wing authoritarianism (RWA), outgroup‐directed prejudice, and hostile behavioral intentions toward outgroups. Three correlational studies, conducted in two countries and three different intergroup contexts (n1 = 997; n2 = 1011; n3 = 1992), investigated the moderating role of social norms (both positive and negative) on the relation between RWA and expression of prejudice as well as behavioral intentions toward outgroups. We found that in the presence of positive (i.e., tolerant) social norms, the previously well‐established positive relation between RWA and prejudice is reduced or even reversed, whereas in the presence of negative (i.e., intolerant) social norms, this relation is strengthened. Additionally, the lower (vs. higher) prejudice of high‐RWA individuals in the presence of positive (vs. negative) social norms mediated the link between RWA and behavioral intentions toward outgroups. The present research constitutes the first comprehensive demonstration of authoritarians' potential to be less prejudiced in response to prevailing tolerant social norms.
The influence of motivation and emotion on sensorimotor rhythm‐based brain–computer interface performance
Authors: Kleih‐Dahms Sonja C. , Botrel Loic , Kübler Andrea
Published: May 2021

While decades of research have investigated and technically improved brain–computer interface (BCI)‐controlled applications, relatively little is known about the psychological aspects of brain–computer interfacing. In 35 healthy students, we investigated whether extrinsic motivation manipulated via monetary reward and emotional state manipulated via video and music would influence behavioral and psychophysiological measures of performance with a sensorimotor rhythm (SMR)‐based BCI. We found increased task‐related brain activity in extrinsically motivated (rewarded) as compared with nonmotivated participants but no clear effect of emotional state manipulation. Our experiment investigated the short‐term effect of motivation and emotion manipulation in a group of young healthy subjects, and thus, the significance for patients in the locked‐in state, who may be in need of a BCI, remains to be investigated.
Top Income Shares in Greece From Dictatorship to Crisis: 1967–2017
Authors: Koutentakis Franciscos , Chrissis Kostas
Published: May 2021

The paper calculates the top income shares in Greece from 1967 (the seizure of power by the military dictatorship) until 2017 (the aftermath of the debt crisis). This long‐run perspective allows for the examination of the relationship between inequality and institutional transformations, namely democracy, finance, and crisis. We find in particular that (a) transition to democracy did not affect the income share of the top decile, whereas social democracy had a significant negative impact; (b) financial development and liberalization substantially increased all top decile shares; and (c) debt crisis, consolidation, and recession increased the share of the upper ranks of the top decile.
Measuring patient experiences of person‐centred care: Translation, cultural adaption and qualitative evaluation of item candidates for use in England and Sweden
Authors: Rosenlund Lena , Jakobsson Sofie , Lloyd Helen , Lundgren‐Nilsson Åsa , Hermansson Miriam , Dencker Anna
Published: May 2021

Background

To facilitate change for person‐centred care, there is a need to invest in measures to assess if and how healthcare systems are delivering care based on the principles of person‐centred care. This paper describes the first phase in developing an item bank to measure patients’ experiences of person‐centred care.

Aim

The aim was to translate, culturally adapt and evaluate candidate items to measure person‐centred care from the patient's perspective.

Methods

The Centre for person‐centred care at Gothenburg university and the UK Person‐centred and coordinated care model informed our conceptual framework. The initial pool of item candidates originated from a previous systematic review where 855 items were identified. In this study, a mixed method design was used involving persons with experience as patients, caregivers, healthcare professionals and researchers in person‐centred care or questionnaire design (n = 84). The item analysis included two validation rounds using web questionnaires, a focus group and cognitive interviews.

Results

From the initial pool, 155 items covering core domains and subdomains of person‐centred and coordinated care were selected for translation and qualitative item analysis. After translation, 44 items were excluded (duplicates). After the first validation round, 21 items were rephrased and 35 were excluded (due to low ratings, lack of comprehensibility, were duplicates or too specifically phrased). To reflect the ethical basis of person‐centred care, rewordings were also made to encompass the patient as an active partner in care and where communication and information goes two‐ways and care is co‐created. After the second round, 11 items were rephrased and 25 items were excluded (for being redundant/repetitive). Six new items were added (covering access to care, patient capabilities, mental well‐being and identifying goals).

Conclusion

We have developed a first set of 57 items to proceed towards developing an item bank to measure the patient experiences of person‐centred care.
Sámi language in Norwegian health care: ‘He speaks good enough Norwegian, I don’t see why he needs an interpreter’
Authors: Engnes Janne Isaksen , Sivertsen Nina , Bongo Berit Andersdatter , Mehus Grete
Published: May 2021

Introduction

The Indigenous people of Norway are legally entitled to use their Sámi language in encounters with healthcare services, yet these encounters are generally conducted in Norwegian language. The right to Sámi language and culture in health is particularly relegated when Sámi healthcare personnel is not present. This neglect of Sámi language and culture in the Norwegian healthcare system impacts on the quality of care Sámi patients receive.

Aim

This paper describes and interprets healthcare interactions between nurses and Sámi‐speaking patients in Norway.

Method

Qualitative semi‐structured focus group interviews were conducted with Sámi (n = 13) and Norwegian nurses (n = 10). Participants were included if they had experience working with Sámi‐speaking patients and two years clinical practice in the Sámi area of northern Norway. Interpretive and descriptive analyses were conducted.

Findings

Obtaining only basic patient information and lack of mapping of native language in admission documents or patient notes makes it challenging to recognise Sámi patients. In encounters with Sámi patients, Norwegian nurses must navigate linguistic challenges with an additional layer of interplay between culture and care. Misunderstandings in this area can undermine patient safety and be directly contrary to health legislation and patient rights. As remedy, Sámi nurses often improve the nurse–patient dialogue by translating and explaining cultural nuances, thus improving understanding of healthcare interactions, and bridging the gap to the Norwegian staff.

Conclusion

To integrate Sámi language and culture into nursing care new guidelines to implement knowledge of Sámi patients’ culture and language rights in healthcare education is needed. In addition, the authorities have to facilitate implementation of laws and regulations, research and guidelines in practical health care. At last, the number of Sámi‐speaking nurses has to increase.