bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diagnostic application of a capture based NGS test for the concurrent detection of variants in sequence and copy number as well as LOH
Authors: Vetro A. , Goidin D. , Lesende I. , Limongelli I. , Ranzani G.N. , Novara F. , Bonaglia M.C. , Rinaldi B. , Franchi F. , Manolakos E. , Lonardo F. , Scarano F. , Scarano G. , Costantino L. , Tedeschi S. , Giglio S. , Zuffardi O.
Published: May 2017

Whole exome sequencing (WES) has made the identification of causative SNVs/InDels associated with rare Mendelian conditions increasingly accessible. Incorporation of softwares allowing CNVs detection into the WES bioinformatics pipelines may increase the diagnostic yield. However, no standard protocols for this analysis are so far available and CNVs in non‐coding regions are totally missed by WES, in spite of their possible role in the regulation of the flanking genes expression. So, in a number of cases the diagnostic workflow contemplates an initial investigation by genomic arrays followed, in the negative cases, by WES. The opposite workflow may also be applied, according to the familial segregation of the disease.

We show preliminary results for a diagnostic application of a single next generation sequencing panel permitting the concurrent detection of LOH and variations in sequences and copy number. This approach allowed us to highlight compound heterozygosity for a CNV and a sequence variant in a number of cases, the duplication of a non‐coding region responsible for sex reversal, and a whole‐chromosome isodisomy causing reduction to homozygosity for a WFS1 variant. Moreover, the panel enabled us to detect deletions, duplications, and amplifications with sensitivity comparable to that of the most widely used array‐CGH platforms.
Comparison between tapered and cylindrical implants in the posterior regions of the mandible: A prospective, randomized, split‐mouth clinical trial focusing on implant stability changes during early healing
Authors: Waechter Janine , Madruga Marina de Matos , Carmo Filho Luiz Carlos do , Leite Fábio Renato Manzolli , Schinestsck André Ribeiro , Faot Fernanda
Published: May 2017

Background

Companies affirm that tapered implants show adequate initial stability, while their installation in the lower arch is uncommon in clinical practice.

Purpose

To compare the clinical outcomes of tapered and cylindrical implants and to study their effect on bone site characteristics and peri‐implant health during healing.

Materials and Methods

The implant site dimensions were assessed by linear measurements using CBCT prior to the installation of 40 implants in the posterior mandible (20 tapered and 20 cylindrical). The bone type was registered during drilling via the surgeon's tactile perception, following the classification of Lekholm and Zarb. Primary stability (PS) was determined by the insertion torque (IT) and the implant stability quotient (ISQ). Secondary stability (SS) and the peri‐implant health was monitored for 3 months through the visible plaque index (VPI), the peri‐implant inflammation (PI), the probing depth index (PDI), and the gingival bleeding index (GBI). Significant differences were investigated with t‐tests for independent samples, chi‐square tests or Fisher's exact test. Pearson's correlation test was used to investigate the relationship between the bone site characteristics and PS (IT and ISQ), as well as the relationships between IT and ISQ for each implant type.

Results

Tapered and cylindrical implants showed no significant differences for any outcome variable (P > .05). A significant decrease in ISQ was observed after 7 days of healing (P = .0002), followed by a gradual increase beginning at 21 days (P = .0010) until the last follow‐up time at 90 days (P = .0319). The cortical height was correlated with IT; while medullary bone dimensions were correlated with the PS as evidenced by the ISQ values. The insertion torque was significantly correlated with the PS only for the cylindrical dental implants.

Conclusions

Tapered and cylindrical implants have similar biological behavior during the healing process. Bone site characteristics can influence insertion torque and implant stability.
Of Papers and Pens: Polysemes and Homophones in Lexical (mis)Selection
Authors: Li Leon , Slevc L. Robert
Published: May 2017

Every word signifies multiple senses. Many studies using comprehension‐based measures suggest that polysemes’ senses (e.g., paper as in printer paper or term paper) share lexical representations, whereas homophones’ meanings (e.g., pen as in ballpoint pen or pig pen) correspond to distinct lexical representations. Less is known about the lexical representations of polysemes compared to homophones in language production. In this study, speakers named pictures after reading sentence fragments that primed polysemes and homophones either as direct competitors to pictures (i.e., semantic‐competitors), or as indirect‐competitors to pictures (e.g., polysemous senses of semantic competitors, or homophonous meanings of semantic competitors). Polysemes (e.g., paper) elicited equal numbers of intrusions to picture names (e.g., cardboard) compared to in control conditions whether primed as direct competitors (printer paper) or as indirect‐competitors (term paper). This contrasted with the finding that homophones (e.g., pen) elicited more intrusions to picture names (e.g., crayon) compared to in control conditions when primed as direct competitors (ballpoint pen) than when primed as indirect‐competitors (pig pen). These results suggest that polysemes, unlike homophones, are stored and retrieved as unified lexical representations.
Primary cutaneous perivascular epithelioid cell tumor (PEComa): Five new cases and review of the literature
Authors: Stuart Lauren N. , Tipton Russell G. , DeWall Michael R. , Parker Douglas C. , Stelton Christina D. , Morrison Annie O. , Coleman Landon W. , Fosko Scott W. , Vidal Claudia I. , Yadira Hurley Maria , Deeken Amy H. , Gardner Jerad M.
Published: May 2017

PEComas represent a family of uncommon mesenchymal tumors composed of “perivascular epithelioid cells” with a distinct immunophenotype that typically shows both myogenic and melanocytic differentiation. The PEComa family includes angiomyolipoma (AML), clear cell “sugar” tumor of the lung and extra pulmonary sites, lymphangioleiomyomatosis and clear cell myomelanocytic tumor of the falciform ligament/ligamentum teres. Very rarely, PEComas may arise in the skin. Primary cutaneous PEComas typically display a dermal proliferation of epithelioid cells with pale, clear, or granular pink cytoplasm arranged in nests and trabecula with an intervening arborizing network of delicate capillaries. Primary cutaneous PEComas have a lower frequency of myogenic marker expression than their deep soft tissue and visceral counterparts. They also often express strong diffuse CD10, leading to potential confusion with metastatic renal cell carcinoma. Most cases behave indolently. We report 5 additional cases of this rare entity. All showed classic histologic features and expression of either HMB‐45 and/or Melan‐A/MART‐1. Four cases were tested for myogenic markers (2 were positive & 2 were negative). Three cases were tested for CD10 (all 3 were positive). All of our cases with clinical follow‐up behaved indolently. Table 1 provides a summary of findings for all 5 cases in our series.
Cross‐cultural variation in the association between family's socioeconomic status and adolescent alcohol use
Authors: Gomes de Matos Elena , Kraus Ludwig , Hannemann Tessa‐Virginia , Soellner Renate , Piontek Daniela
Published: May 2017

Introduction and Aims. This study estimates cross‐country variation in socioeconomic disparities in adolescent alcohol use and identifies country‐level characteristics associated with these disparities. Design and Methods. The association between socioeconomic status (family wealth and parental education) and alcohol use (lifetime use and episodic heavy drinking) of 15‐ to 16‐year‐olds from 32 European countries was investigated. Country‐level characteristics were national income, income inequality and per capita alcohol consumption. Multilevel modelling was applied. Results. Across countries, lifetime use was lower in wealthy than in less wealthy families (odds ratio [OR](girls) = 0.95, OR(boys) = 0.94). The risk of episodic heavy drinking, in contrast, was higher for children from wealthier families (OR(girls) = 1.04, OR(boys) = 1.08) and lower when parents were highly educated (ORs = 0.95–0.98). Socioeconomic disparities varied substantially between countries. National wealth and income inequality were associated with cross‐country variation of disparities in lifetime use in few comparisons, such that among girls, the (negative) effect of family wealth was greatest in countries with unequally distributed income (OR = 0.86). Among boys, the (negative) effect of family wealth was greatest in low‐income countries (OR = 1.00), and the (positive) effect of mothers' education was greatest in countries with high income inequality (OR = 1.11). Discussion and Conclusions. Socioeconomic disparities in adolescent alcohol use vary across European countries. Broad country‐level indicators can explain this variation only to a limited extent, but results point towards slightly greater socioeconomic disparities in drinking in countries of low national income and countries with a high income inequality. [Gomes de Matos E, Kraus L, Hannemann T‐V, Soellner R, Piontek D. Cross‐cultural variation in the association between family's socioeconomic status and adolescent alcohol use.
A meta‐analysis of the relationship between socioeconomic status and executive function performance among children
Authors: Lawson Gwendolyn M. , Hook Cayce J. , Farah Martha J.
Published: May 2017

The relationship between childhood socioeconomic status (SES) and executive function (EF) has recently attracted attention within psychology, following reports of substantial SES disparities in children's EF. Adding to the importance of this relationship, EF has been proposed as a mediator of socioeconomic disparities in lifelong achievement and health. However, evidence about the relationship between childhood SES and EF is mixed, and there has been no systematic attempt to evaluate this relationship across studies. This meta‐analysis systematically reviewed the literature for studies in which samples of children varying in SES were evaluated on EF, including studies with and without primary hypotheses about SES. The analysis included 8760 children between the ages of 2 and 18 gathered from 25 independent samples. Analyses showed a small but statistically significant correlation between SES and EF across all studies (rrandom = .16, 95% CI [.12, .21]) without correcting for attenuation owing to range restriction or measurement unreliability. Substantial heterogeneity was observed among studies, and a number of factors, including the amount of SES variability in the sample and the number of EF measures used, emerged as moderators. Using only the 15 studies with meaningful SES variability in the sample, the average correlation between SES and EF was small‐to‐medium in size (rrandom = .22, 95% CI [.17, .27]). Using only the six studies with multiple measures of EF, the relationship was medium in size (rrandom = .28, 95% CI [.18, .37]). In sum, this meta‐analysis supports the presence of SES disparities in EF and suggests that they are between small and medium in size, depending on the methods used to measure them.
The importance of networking in development co‐operation: A social network analysis‐based evaluation of an international development programme
Authors: Nascimbeni Fabio
Published: May 2017

This article aims to demonstrate that networking activities, if properly planned, applied and monitored, can help increase the long‐term impact of development co‐operation actions. We demonstrate the added value of networking within development actions, focusing on dynamics of trust and reciprocity and on the rationales beyond different collaboration patterns, demonstrating the impact of networking on program effectiveness, intercultural learning and sustainability. Using social network analysis coupled with participant observation, it was possible to trace the development of a large multi‐stakeholder development programme and to understand a number of dynamics not considered by the donor when evaluating the action, thereby reaching a better understanding of the challenges and success of the programme.
Patterns of fish movement at a desert river confluence
Authors: Cathcart Charles N. , Gido Keith B. , McKinstry Mark C. , MacKinnon Peter D.
Published: May 2017

Quantifying fish movements in river networks helps identify critical habitat needs and how they change with environmental conditions. Some of the challenges in tracking fish movements can be overcome with the use of passive integrated transponder (PIT) tagging and antennas. We used PIT technology to test predictions of movement behaviour for four fish species at a mainstem–tributary confluence zone in an arid‐land river system. Specifically, we focused on the McElmo Creek tributary confluence with the San Juan River in south‐western Utah, USA. We quantified variation in species occurrences at this confluence zone from May 2012 to December 2015 relative to temporal and environmental conditions. We considered occurrences among species relative to tagging origins (tributary versus mainstem), season and time of day. Generally, fishes tagged in the focal tributary were more likely to be detected compared to fish tagged in the mainstem river or other tributaries. Additionally, adults were most likely to be detected across multiple years compared to subadults. Based on a Random Forests model, the best performing environmental variables for predicting seasonal detections included mainstem discharge during run‐off season (razorback sucker Xyrauchen texanus), tributary discharge during monsoon season (Colorado pikeminnow Ptychocheilus lucius) and mainstem water temperature (flannelmouth sucker Catostomus latipinnis and channel catfish Ictalurus punctatus). The variable responses by endemic and introduced fishes indicate tributary habitats provide several key functions within a fish community including spawning, rearing, foraging and refuge.
Dietary overlap and selectivity among silver carp and two native filter feeders in the Wabash River
Authors: Minder Mario , Pyron Mark
Published: May 2017

Silver carp (Hypophthalmichthys molitrix) are a potential threat to native filter feeders and larval fish due to dietary overlap. To test for dietary overlap and selectivity, we collected diet samples from invasive silver carp and two native filter feeders (gizzard shad Dorosoma cepedianum and bigmouth buffalo Ictiobus cyprinellus), and river plankton samples at three sites on the Wabash River during the spring and summer of 2015. Contents of diet items were identified to major group and quantified. Diet proportions were compared among seasons, sites and species. Diet selectivity was calculated using the Manly–Chesson diet selectivity index. The results of our diet analysis showed that silver carp had significantly dissimilar diets among seasons and displayed dietary overlap with native fishes. We did not find a significant difference among sample sites. While silver carp diets overlapped with native fishes, the impact of this possible source of competition requires further study to confirm impacts on native fish abundances and body conditions.
The effects of aggregation on survival and growth rate in the wood‐feeding cockroach Panesthia angustipennis spadica (Blaberidae)
Authors: Ito Hiroki , Osawa Naoya
Published: May 2017

The wood‐feeding cockroach Panesthia angustipennis spadica Shiraki (Blaberidae) is a gregarious species, and its groups containing both nymphs and adults have often been observed in the field. To clarify the effects of aggregation with a parent and siblings on nymphal development in P. angustipennis spadica, we raised nymphs of this species in the laboratory under the following three experimental categories: (a) aggregate with a female adult; (b) aggregate without a female adult; and (c) solitary. Survival rates did not significantly differ among the three categories. Unexpectedly, our results clearly showed that nymphs raised in aggregates with a female adult were smaller, lighter, and reached a lower instar than those raised without a female adult. These results indicate that the presence of a female adult does not positively affect nymphal development; i.e. there may be no direct parental care in this species as indicated by previous studies. Moreover, solitary nymphs grew faster and larger than nymphs in aggregates, showing that the aggregation with siblings also has no positive effect on nymphal development. Thus, it seems likely that external factors, e.g. predation and environmental conditions, may drive aggregating behavior in P. angustipennis spadica.
Law‐Based Commodification of Private Debt
Authors: Juutilainen Teemu
Published: May 2017

This article looks back in history to understand how private debt developed into the kind of tradable asset, or commodity, that it is today. The article theorises that development, distinguishing in it three discrete but overlapping modes of commodification, namely propertification, impersonalisation and risk abstraction. The three modes shed light on changes in debt as a legal institution and in the economic and social functions of debt. Finally, the article shows that commodification of private debt is not just a phenomenon of the past, but something to be taken into account in future law‐making, where the three modes of commodification may help to recognise particular opportunities and risks. This is illustrated by two actions included in the Commission's Capital Markets Union project, one regarding cross‐border assignments of claims, the other the European securitisation market.
Ensiling alfalfa with whole crop corn improves the silage quality and in vitro digestibility of the silage mixtures
Authors: Zhang Qing , Zhao Miaomiao , Wang Xianguo , Yu Zhu , Na Risu
Published: May 2017

To evaluate the silage quality, digestibility, in vitro ruminal fermentation of silages mixed by different rates of alfalfa and whole crop corn, alfalfa and corn were mixed and ensiled at the ratio of 100:0, 80:20, 60:40, 40:60, 0:100, respectively. Fermentative parameters, chemical composition, in vitro digestibility of the silages were detected after 60 days of ensiling. Dry matter, lactic acid content, Flieg point increased and pH, acetic acid, ammonia N content, non‐protein nitrogen and soluble protein in crude protein decreased with the proportion increase of whole crop corn in silage. Butyric acid was only detected in pure alfalfa silage. Gas production, in vitro dry matter digestibility, total volatile fatty acids, propionate proportion in volatile fatty acids increased and valerate, isovalerate, ratio of non‐glucogenic to glucogenic acids decreased with the proportion increase of whole crop corn in silage. Gas production rate and half time were not different among treatments. In conclusion, high quality silage can be obtained by ensiling alfalfa with whole crop corn without requirement of additives. Ensiling alfalfa with whole crop corn improves digestibility of the mixed silage. The digestibility and fermentability of the silage can be regulated by the ratio of alfalfa to corn.
Detection of gastric atrophy by circulating pepsinogens: A comparison of three assays
Authors: Leja Marcis , Camargo M. Constanza , Polaka Inese , Isajevs Sergejs , Liepniece‐Karele Inta , Janciauskas Dainius , Rudzite Dace , Kikuste Ilze , Vanags Aigars , Kojalo Ilona , Folkmanis Valdis , Kirsners Arnis , Tolmanis Ivars , Rabkin Charles S.
Published: May 2017

Background

Circulating levels of pepsinogens have been used in high gastric cancer‐risk Asian and European populations to triage endoscopic evaluation for more severe pathology. There are different analytic methods with uncertain correlations. We therefore compared diagnostic performance of three commonly used pepsinogen assays to detect histologically confirmed gastric atrophy.

Methods

We tested plasma samples from adult patients with (n=50) and without (n=755) moderate or severe gastric corpus atrophy, as determined histologically by consensus of three expert pathologists. A single laboratory measured pepsinogens I (PgI) and II (PgII) using commercially available assays: two ELISA assays produced by Biohit (Finland) and Vector Best (Russia), and a latex agglutination assay from Eiken (Japan). Quantitative correlations were assessed by Spearman statistics. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves vs histological diagnosis were calculated using both the manufacturers' and optimized cutoffs.

Results

Pepsinogen levels were highly correlated among the assays (pairwise Rhos: PgI≥0.84, PgII≥0.87; all P‐values<.01). Based on manufacturers' cutoffs, sensitivities, specificities and areas under the ROC curve for detecting moderate to severe histological corpus atrophy by PgI/PgII were 44%/91%/0.70, 56%/84%/0.76, and 52%/90%/0.77 for Biohit, Vector Best and Eiken, respectively. Cutoffs optimized by ROC or data mining analyses did not substantially improve test performance.

Conclusions

Commercial assays for pepsinogen have good relative agreement but are imperfect tests for clinical diagnosis of gastric atrophy.

Impact

Pepsinogen testing alone does not provide sufficient information for gastric cancer risk stratification. Future investigations should focus on other potential markers, in combination with pepsinogens.
Low‐level laser therapy (780 nm) combined with collagen sponge scaffold promotes repair of rat cranial critical‐size defects and increases TGF‐β, FGF‐2, OPG/RANK and osteocalcin expression
Authors: de Oliveira Lana Sarita de Souza , de Araújo Aurigena Antunes , de Araújo Júnior Raimundo Fernandes , Barboza Carlos Augusto Galvão , Borges Boniek Castillo Dutra , da Silva José Sandro Pereira
Published: May 2017

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of collagen sponge scaffold (CSS) implantation associated with low‐level laser therapy (LLLT) on repairing bone defects. A single 5‐mm cranial defect was surgically created in forty Wistar rats, which then received one of the following four interventions (n = 10 per group): no treatment (G0); bone defect implanted with collagen sponge scaffold (CSS) alone (G1); defect treated with low‐level laser therapy (LLLT) (wavelength 780 nm; total energy density 120 J/cm2; power 50 mW) alone (G2); and CSS associated with LLLT treatment (G3). After surgery, animals in each group were euthanized at 21 days and 30 days (n = 5 per euthanasia time group). Bone formation was monitored by X‐ray imaging analysis. Biopsies were collected and processed for histological analysis and immunohistochemical evaluation of transforming growth factor‐beta (TGF‐β), fibroblast growth factor‐2 (FGF‐2), osteoprotegerin (OPG) and receptor activator of nuclear factor ƙ (RANK). Osteocalcin (OCN) was detected by immunofluorescence analysis. Compared to the G0 group, defects in the 30‐day G3 group exhibited increased bone formation, both by increase in radiopaque areas (P < 0.01) and by histomorphometric analysis (P < 0.001). The histopathological analysis showed a decreased number of inflammatory cells (P < 0.001). The combined CCS + LLLT (G3) treatment also resulted in the most intense immunostaining for OPG, RANK, FGF‐2 and TGF‐β, and the most intense and diffuse OCN immunofluorescent labelling at 30 days postsurgery (G3 vs. G0 group, P < 0.05). Therefore, the use of CCS associated with LLLT could offer a synergistic advantage in improving the healing of bone fractures.
ESTIMATING A DYNAMIC SPATIAL EQUILIBRIUM MODEL TO EVALUATE THE WELFARE IMPLICATIONS OF REGIONAL ADJUSTMENT PROCESSES: THE DECLINE OF THE RUST BELT
Authors: Yoon Chamna
Published: May 2017

This article develops and estimates a new dynamic spatial equilibrium model to study the regional transition dynamics and its impact on individual and aggregate welfare. The model consists of a multiregion, multisector economy comprised of overlapping generations of individuals with heterogeneous skills and mobility costs. The empirical findings suggest that a large fraction of the decline of the Rust Belt can be attributed to the reduction in its region‐specific comparative advantage in the goods‐producing sector. This decline generated significant differences in welfare across regions. Policy experiments show that such inequality can be significantly reduced through place‐based policies.
CONTRACEPTION AND DEVELOPMENT: A UNIFIED GROWTH THEORY
Authors: Strulik Holger
Published: May 2017

This study investigates the interaction of the use of modern contraceptives, fertility, education, and long‐run growth. It develops an economic model that takes into account that sexual intercourse is utility enhancing and that birth control by modern contraceptives is more efficient but more costly than traditional methods. The study shows how a traditional economy, in which modern contraceptives are not used, gradually converges toward a high growth regime, in which modern contraceptives are used. Lower prices or higher efficacy of contraceptives are conducive to an earlier onset of the fertility transition and a quicker takeoff to modern growth.
Supine awake oximetry as a screening tool for daytime hypercapnia in super‐obese patients
Authors: Chung Yewon , Garden Frances L. , Jee Adelle S. , Srikantha Subash , Gupta Saurabh , Buchanan Peter R. , Collett Peter W. , Marks Guy B. , Vedam Hima
Published: May 2017

Background

Evidence‐based screening tools are required for detection of daytime hypercapnia in high‐risk patient populations.

Aims

To determine the validity of supine awake oximetry as a test for daytime hypercapnia and severe sleep disordered breathing (SDB) in super‐obese patients.

Methods

This was a cross‐sectional diagnostic test evaluation of super‐obese adults (body mass index >50 kg/m2) presenting to Liverpool Hospital, Australia, between 2009 and 2015 for diagnostic polysomnography (PSG) and arterial blood gas measurement. Supine awake oxygen saturation (SpO2) was determined using oximetry measurements from the first three awake epochs of raw PSG data. Sensitivity and specificity of SpO2 for detecting patients with daytime hypercapnia (PaCO2 >45 mmHg) and severe SDB (respiratory disturbance index (RDI) >30 events/h) were assessed at various cut‐off points and displayed using a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. Area under the ROC curve and positive and negative predictive values (PPV and NPV) in the present patient population were derived.

Results

Of 52 patients, 23 (44%) had daytime hypercapnia. SpO2 measured awake in the supine position was associated with the presence of daytime hypercapnia but not with the presence of severe SDB. Overall, awake supine SpO2 <91.2% had 34.8% sensitivity, 96.6% specificity and 88.8% PPV, and SpO2 <96.7% had 87.0% sensitivity, 20.7% specificity and 66.7% NPV for the presence of daytime hypercapnia.

Conclusion

Awake supine oximetry is an easily performed test that may have novel use in identifying patients at high risk of respiratory failure. Future studies are required to evaluate prospectively its role in screening patients at risk of daytime hypercapnia.
A biased random‐key genetic algorithm for scheduling heterogeneous multi‐round systems
Authors: Brandão Julliany S. , Noronha Thiago F. , Resende Mauricio G. C. , Ribeiro Celso C.
Published: May 2017

A divisible load is an amount W of computational work that can be arbitrarily divided into independent chunks of load. In many divisible load applications, the load can be parallelized in a master–worker fashion, where the master distributes the load among a set P of worker processors to be processed in parallel. The master can only send load to one worker at a time, and the transmission can be done in a single round or in multiple rounds. The multi‐round divisible load scheduling problem consists in (a) selecting the subset of workers that will process the load, (b) defining the order in which load will be transmitted to each of them, (c) defining the number m of transmission rounds that will be used, and (d) deciding the amount of load that will be transmitted to each worker at each round , so as to minimize the makespan. We propose a heuristic approach that determines the transmission order, the set of the active processors and the number of rounds by a biased random‐key genetic algorithm. The amount of load transmitted to each worker is computed in polynomial time by closed‐form formulas. Computational results showed that the proposed genetic algorithm outperformed a closed‐form state‐of‐the‐art heuristic, obtaining makespans that are 11.68% smaller on average for a set of benchmark problems.
First‐time fathers’ postnatal experiences and support needs: A descriptive qualitative study
Authors: Shorey Shefaly , Dennis Cindy‐Lee , Bridge Shiho , Chong Yap Seng , Holroyd Eleanor , He Hong‐Gu
Published: May 2017

Aim

To explore first‐time fathers’ postnatal experiences and support needs in the early postpartum period.

Background

The postnatal period is a stressful transition period for new fathers. It is imperative to understand their needs and experiences to provide appropriate support for them. The majority of previous studies were based in Western countries and explored fathers’ needs during pregnancy and childbirth, with few studies conducted in the postnatal period. In Singapore, a multiracial society with differing paternal cultural values from its Western counterparts, there is considerable need to examine the experiences and needs of first‐time fathers.

Design

A descriptive qualitative design was used.

Methods

Data were collected from November 2015–January 2016. Fifteen first‐time fathers were recruited from two postnatal wards of a public hospital, using a purposive sampling method. A semi‐structured interview guide was used to conduct face‐to‐face interviews. A thematic analysis was conducted and ethics approval was sought for this study.

Results

Four overarching themes and seventeen subthemes were generated. The four overarching themes were: (1) No sense of reality to sense of responsibility; (2) Unprepared and challenged; (3) Support: needs, sources, experience and attitude; and (4) Future help for fathers.

Conclusion

Fathers undergo a transition phase where they have unmet support needs during the early postnatal period. Understanding and addressing these needs may facilitate smooth transition to fatherhood. This study's findings can be used to involve fathers and design future supportive educational programs to promote positive parenting experiences and family dynamics.
Characteristics of highly rated leadership in nursing homes using item response theory
Authors: Backman Annica , Sjögren Karin , Lindkvist Marie , Lövheim Hugo , Edvardsson David
Published: May 2017

Aim

To identify characteristics of highly rated leadership in nursing homes.

Background

An ageing population entails fundamental social, economic and organizational challenges for future aged care. Knowledge is limited of both specific leadership behaviours and organizational and managerial characteristics which have an impact on the leadership of contemporary nursing home care.

Design

Cross‐sectional.

Method

From 290 municipalities, 60 were randomly selected and 35 agreed to participate, providing a sample of 3605 direct‐care staff employed in 169 Swedish nursing homes. The staff assessed their managers’ (n = 191) leadership behaviours using the Leadership Behaviour Questionnaire. Data were collected from November 2013 ‐ September 2014, and the study was completed in November 2016. A two‐parameter item response theory approach and regression analyses were used to identify specific characteristics of highly rated leadership.

Results

Five specific behaviours of highly rated nursing home leadership were identified; that the manager: experiments with new ideas; controls work closely; relies on subordinates; coaches and gives direct feedback; and handles conflicts constructively. The regression analyses revealed that managers with social work backgrounds and privately run homes were significantly associated with higher leadership ratings.

Conclusion

This study highlights the five most important leadership behaviours that characterize those nursing home managers rated highest in terms of leadership. Managers in privately run nursing homes and managers with social work backgrounds were associated with higher leadership ratings. Further work is needed to explore these behaviours and factors predictive of higher leadership ratings.
Comparing anger, anger expression, life stress and social support between Korean female nursing and general university students
Authors: Jun Won Hee , Lee Gyungjoo
Published: May 2017

Aims

To compare anger, anger expression, life stress and social support among female students at a nursing university and a general university and to examine factors affecting anger in each group.

Background

University students typically experience constant stress resulting from factors like academic requirements, personal relationships and career decisions; this tends to promote anger. Particularly, nursing students’ anger can negatively affect the quality of care that they provide, and also their mental health. Therefore, anger management of nursing students is very important in the training and development of future nurses. Nursing education needs to confirm factors associated with anger of nursing students compared with general university students to develop specific intervention programs for decreasing their anger levels.

Design

A descriptive, cross‐sectional design was used.

Methods

Participants were 286 female students (146 from a nursing university and 140 from a general university); they completed self‐report surveys examining anger, anger expression, life stress and social support. A stepwise multiple regression analysis was done to identify factors affecting anger. Data were collected from 15 May–10 June 2016.

Results/Findings

In the stepwise multiple regression analysis, we entered three anger expression factors, eight life stress factors and social support as explanatory variables; factors affecting anger among nursing students were anger‐out and same‐sex peer relationship stress. In general university students, anger‐out, anger‐control and anger‐in were identified as factors affecting anger.

Conclusion

Becoming proficient in beneficial anger expression techniques and reducing stress from same‐sex peer relationships will reduce anger among female nursing students.
A narrative evaluation of a community‐based nurse navigation role in an urban at‐risk community
Authors: Feather Janice , Carter Nancy , Valaitis Ruta , Kirkpatrick Helen
Published: May 2017

Aims

To explore community members’ stories of their experiences with a Nurse Navigator programme serving an urban neighbourhood and primary care practice to address persistent health and social barriers adversely affecting health equity and well‐being.

Background

In response to striking health and social inequalities existing across neighbourhoods in a large southern city in Ontario, Canada, a pilot programme was designed to improve health and social outcomes in a specific “at‐risk” neighbourhood. The programme includes nurse‐led navigation support for individuals and families and networking to facilitate improved service integration at a systems level.

Design

A narrative inquiry approach based on the Three‐Dimensional Narrative Inquiry Space method, as described by Clandinin & Connelly (Narrative inquiry: Experience and story in qualitative research, ).

Methods

A thematic analysis of nine community members’ life stories from narrative semi‐structured interviews (January–June 2014) in conjunction with field notes, observations and documents. Participants’ life stories created a common narrative of the experience of navigation in a community setting.

Findings

There were four main themes: “opening the door”; “more than just a conversation”; “making connections”; and “on a new trajectory”. Participants valued the development of a therapeutic relationship, which optimized social inclusion, barrier reduction and connectivity to supportive health and social services.

Conclusions

The relational process of navigation as an antecedent to barrier reduction has direct implications for programme development, continuing education of navigators and quality improvement of existing navigation services. Study findings have implications for development of navigation competencies for nurses working with priority populations to address health inequities.
An integrated review of the correlation between critical thinking ability and clinical decision‐making in nursing
Authors: Lee Daphne SK , Abdullah Khatijah Lim , Subramanian Pathmawathi , Bachmann Robert Thomas , Ong Swee Leong
Published: May 2017

Aims and objectives

To explore whether there is a correlation between critical thinking ability and clinical decision‐making among nurses.

Background

Critical thinking is currently considered as an essential component of nurses’ professional judgement and clinical decision‐making. If confirmed, nursing curricula may be revised emphasising on critical thinking with the expectation to improve clinical decision‐making and thus better health care.

Design

Integrated literature review.

Methods

The integrative review was carried out after a comprehensive literature search using electronic databases Ovid, EBESCO MEDLINE, EBESCO CINAHL, PROQuest and Internet search engine Google Scholar. Two hundred and 22 articles from January 1980 to end of 2015 were retrieved. All studies evaluating the relationship between critical thinking and clinical decision‐making, published in English language with nurses or nursing students as the study population, were included. No qualitative studies were found investigating the relationship between critical thinking and clinical decision‐making, while 10 quantitative studies met the inclusion criteria and were further evaluated using the Quality Assessment and Validity Tool. As a result, one study was excluded due to a low‐quality score, with the remaining nine accepted for this review.

Results

Four of nine studies established a positive relationship between critical thinking and clinical decision‐making. Another five studies did not demonstrate a significant correlation. The lack of refinement in studies’ design and instrumentation were arguably the main reasons for the inconsistent results.

Conclusions

Research studies yielded contradictory results as regard to the relationship between critical thinking and clinical decision‐making; therefore, the evidence is not convincing. Future quantitative studies should have representative sample size, use critical thinking measurement tools related to the healthcare sector and evaluate the predisposition of test takers towards their willingness and ability to think. There is also a need for qualitative studies to provide a fresh approach in exploring the relationship between these variables uncovering currently unknown contributing factors.

Relevance to clinical practice

This review confirmed that evidence to support the existence of relationships between critical thinking and clinical decision‐making is still unsubstantiated. Therefore, it serves as a call for nurse leaders and nursing academics to produce quality studies in order to firmly support or reject the hypothesis that there is a statistically significant correlation between critical thinking and clinical decision‐making.
Palestinian community perceptions of do‐not‐resuscitation order for terminally Ill patients: A qualitative study
Authors: Alrimawi Intima , Saifan Ahmad Rajeh , Abdelkader Raghad , Batiha Abdul‐Monim
Published: May 2017

Aim and objectives

To illustrate the Palestinian community's views, opinions and stances about the concept of do‐not‐resuscitate for terminally ill patients.

Background

Do‐not‐resuscitate orders are practised in many countries worldwide, but there is no consensus on their practice in the Middle East. Do‐not‐resuscitate orders may be applied for terminally ill paediatric patients. Some studies have been conducted describing people's experiences with these do‐not‐resuscitate orders. However, few studies have considered community perspectives on do‐not‐resuscitate orders for terminally ill patients in Palestine.

Design

A descriptive‐qualitative design was adopted.

Methods

A purposive sample of 24 participants was interviewed, with consideration of demographical characteristics such as age, gender, education and place of residency. The participants were recruited over a period of 6 months. Individual semistructured interviews were utilised. These interviews were transcribed and analysed using thematic analysis.

Findings

Significantly, the majority of the participants did not know the meaning of do‐not‐resuscitate and thought that removal of life‐sustaining devices and do‐not‐resuscitate were the same concept. Most of the interviewees adopted stances against do‐not‐resuscitate orders. Several factors were suggested to influence the decision of accepting or rejecting the do‐not‐resuscitate order. The majority of the participants mentioned religion as a major factor in forming their viewpoints. The participants expressed different views regarding issuing a law regarding do‐not‐resuscitate orders.

Conclusion

Our findings provide a unique understanding that there is a general misunderstanding among our participants regarding the do‐not‐resuscitate order. Further research with policymakers and stakeholders is still required.
Family involvement in timely detection of changes in health of nursing homes residents: A qualitative exploratory study
Authors: Powell Catherine , Blighe Alan , Froggatt Katherine , McCormack Brendan , Woodward‐Carlton Barbara , Young John , Robinson Louise , Downs Murna
Published: May 2017

Aims and objectives

To explore family perspectives on their involvement in the timely detection of changes in their relatives' health in UK nursing homes.

Background

Increasingly, policy attention is being paid to the need to reduce hospitalisations for conditions that, if detected and treated in time, could be managed in the community. We know that family continue to be involved in the care of their family members once they have moved into a nursing home. Little is known, however, about family involvement in the timely detection of changes in health in nursing home residents.

Design

Qualitative exploratory study with thematic analysis.

Methods

A purposive sampling strategy was applied. Fourteen semi‐structured one‐to‐one interviews with family members of people living in 13 different UK nursing homes. Data were collected from November 2015–March 2016.

Results

Families were involved in the timely detection of changes in health in three key ways: noticing signs of changes in health, informing care staff about what they noticed and educating care staff about their family members' changes in health. Families suggested they could be supported to detect timely changes in health by developing effective working practices with care staff.

Conclusion

Families can provide a special contribution to the process of timely detection in nursing homes. Their involvement needs to be negotiated, better supported, as well as given more legitimacy and structure within the nursing home.

Relevance to clinical practice

Families could provide much needed support to nursing home nurses, care assistants and managers in timely detection of changes in health. This may be achieved through communication about their preferred involvement on a case‐by‐case basis as well as providing appropriate support or services.
A psychological intervention programme for patients with breast cancer under chemotherapy and at a high risk of depression: A randomised clinical trial
Authors: Kim Yeon Hee , Choi Kyung Sook , Han Kihye , Kim Hae Won
Published: May 2017

Aims and objectives

To develop a nurse‐led psychological intervention programme and to evaluate its effects on psychological distress and quality of life in patients with breast cancer undergoing chemotherapy and at a high risk of depression.

Background

Depression is common among patients with breast cancer undergoing chemotherapy. Psychological intervention programmes that improve psychological distress and quality of life have previously been lacking in South Korea.

Design

This was a pre‐ and post‐test randomised controlled trial.

Methods

The nurse‐led psychological intervention programme comprised seven weekly counselling sessions delivered face to face and telephonically. These aimed to provide emotional support to patients and to enable them to express their feelings. Patients at a high risk of depression were recruited from an oncology outpatient clinic in a university hospital. Sixty participants were evenly and randomly allocated to either the intervention group or the control group. The effects of the intervention on psychological distress (mood disturbance, anxiety and depression) and quality of life were examined using linear mixed models.

Results

Compared with the control group, the intervention group reported significantly lower mood disturbance, anxiety and depression and showed an improved global health status and physical, role and emotional functions. They also reported fewer symptoms such as fatigue, nausea/vomiting, pain and insomnia.

Conclusions

Our nurse‐led psychological intervention programme might reduce patients’ uncertainty and encourage them to be proactive and self‐controllable.

Relevance to clinical practice

Nurse‐led psychological intervention programmes should be implemented to reduce psychological distress and improve quality of life in patients with breast cancer, particularly those at a high risk of depression.
Liver stiffness reduction correlates with histological characteristics of hepatitis C patients with sustained virological response
Authors: Tachi Yoshihiko , Hirai Takanori , Kojima Yuko , Ishizu Yoji , Honda Takashi , Kuzuya Teiji , Hayashi Kazuhiko , Ishigami Masatoshi , Goto Hidemi
Published: May 2017

Background & Aims

We investigated the correlation between histological characteristics and changes in liver stiffness (LS) in patients with sustained virological response (SVR) using acoustic radiation force impulse (ARFI) elastography.

Methods

In this prospective study, we enrolled 176 hepatitis C patients with SVR who underwent ARFI elastography and liver biopsy before antiviral treatment, and serial ARFI elastography at the end of treatment (EOT) and at 24 weeks after the EOT. To compare the long‐term changes in LS in patients with SVR using ARFI elastography, another group of 140 patients who had undergone paired biopsy after achieving SVR was included.

Results

Mean LS values were 1.60±0.63 m/s, 1.48±0.56 m/s and 1.37±0.62 m/s at baseline, EOT and 24 weeks after EOT, respectively, P<.001. Higher inflammatory activity at baseline was associated with an improvement in LS at the EOT, with an odds ratio of 1.940. Significant fibrosis at baseline was associated with an improvement in LS at 24 weeks after the EOT, with an odds ratio of 2.617. Among patients in the paired biopsy group with baseline fibrosis stage identical to the ARFI group, LS values at 24 weeks after the EOT did not show any difference with values at 5 years after EOT.

Conclusions

Pre‐treatment histological characteristics influence LS reduction after SVR is achieved.