bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Talking about proportion: Fraction labels impact numerical interference in non‐symbolic proportional reasoning
Authors: Hurst Michelle A. , Cordes Sara
Published: December 2018

Across two experiments, we investigated how verbal labels impact the way young children attend to proportional information, well before the introduction of formal fraction education. Five‐ to seven‐year‐old children were introduced to equivalent non‐symbolic proportions labeled in one of three ways: (a) a single, categorical label for multiple fractions (both 3/4 and 6/8 referred to as “blick”), (b) labels that focused on the numerator [e.g., 3/4 labeled as “three blicks” (Experiment 1) or “three‐fourths” (Experiment 2)], or (c) labels that had a complete part‐whole structure (“three‐out‐of‐four”). Children then completed measures of non‐symbolic proportional reasoning that pitted whole‐number information against proportional information for novel proportions. Across both experiments, children who heard the categorical labels were more likely to match non‐symbolic displays based on proportion than children in any of the other conditions, who demonstrated higher levels of numerical interference. These findings suggest that fraction labels have the potential to shape children's attention to proportional information even in the context of non‐symbolic part‐whole displays and for children who are not familiar with formal fraction symbols. We discuss these findings in terms of children's developing understanding of proportional reasoning and its implications for fraction education.
Elevated levels of serum nitrite and nitrate, NOx, are associated with increased total and cardiovascular mortality in an 8‐year follow‐up study
Authors: Gumanova Nadezhda G. , Deev Alexander D. , Kots Alexander Y. , Shalnova Svetlana A.
Published: December 2018

Background

Nitric oxide (NO) is one of the key regulators of vascular function. Abnormal NO signalling is linked to various cardiovascular diseases. We studied associations between circulating levels of NO metabolites, nitrite and nitrate (NOx) and total and cardiovascular mortality in a prospective 8‐year follow‐up cohort study in 1869 patients aged over 55 years.

Materials and methods

The Cox proportional hazard ratio (HR) regression models were adjusted for multiple risk‐related variables. Post hoc Kaplan‐Meier survival curves were compared by the Log‐rank test.

Results

Proportional Cox regression analysis demonstrated that high serum levels of NOx over 70 µmol/L were associated with elevated total mortality (HR 1.4; 95% CI: 1.06‐1.80; P = 0.02) and cardiovascular mortality (HR 1.4; 95% CI: 0.98‐1.98; P = 0.03) when HR was adjusted for age, sex, smoking and urinary creatinine. Additional adjustments for various mortality‐associated baseline comorbidities did not influence associations of elevated NOx with total and cardiovascular mortality. Association of elevated NOx with total mortality persisted in the multivariate regression model combining a number of other characteristics while association of NOx with cardiovascular mortality became non‐significant in the multivariate model. Specific subset of patients contributing to these associations was determined by Kaplan‐Meier survival analysis indicating that cardiovascular and total mortality were increased in men with high serum levels of NOx over 70 µmol/L (Log‐rank test P = 0.01). These associations were not observed in women.

Conclusion

Elevated concentrations of serum NOx over 70 µmol/L can be used to predict mortality in men over 55 years of age.
Haematological malignancy: Are we measuring what is important to patients? A systematic review of quality‐of‐life instruments
Authors: Goswami Pushpendra , Khatib Yasmin , Salek Sam
Published: December 2018

The wide range of health‐related quality‐of‐life (HRQoL) instruments used in haematology makes it challenging for haematologists and other care team members in practice to select, use and understand the scoring system and finally interpret the results. The main objectives of this study were to: (a) provide a comprehensive list of quality‐of‐life issues important to patients suffering from haematological malignancies, identified through the literature; (b) provide a list of health‐related quality‐of‐life (HRQoL) instruments used in haematological malignancies in both daily clinical practice and research; and (c) evaluate the relevance and comprehensibility of the identified instruments in haematological malignancies. Systematic literature review of two databases, followed by addition of articles by manual searching, was carried out. The articles focusing on the primary studies, which have used semi‐structured/structured interviews or surveys to identify issues important to HM patients, and other studies describing the results of testing measurement properties, such as reliability, validity and responsiveness of the instruments currently used to evaluate the HRQoL in different HMs, were included. Fifty‐seven studies reported development and validation of 30 HRQoL instruments, which have been used in haematology. Twenty‐four studies were identified using qualitative methods to report HRQoL issues and symptoms from a patient's perspective. No identified instrument captured all the issues identified from the qualitative studies. None of the instruments reviewed appeared to have been developed for use in clinical practice and specifically for patients with HM, except MyPOS. Furthermore, measurement properties were established, largely, in clinical trial scenarios. There is a need for development of a new HRQoL instrument entirely based on involvement of patients with haematological malignancies.
Thalamic morphometric changes induced by first‐person action videogame training
Authors: Momi Davide , Smeralda Carmelo , Sprugnoli Giulia , Neri Francesco , Rossi Simone , Rossi Alessandro , Di Lorenzo Giorgio , Santarnecchi Emiliano
Published: December 2018

Cross‐sectional data suggest videogaming as promoting modifications in perceptual and cognitive skills of players, as well as inducing structural brain changes. However, whether such changes are both possible after a systematic gaming exposure, and last beyond the training period, is not known. Here, we originally quantified immediate and long‐lasting cognitive and morphometric impact of a systematic gaming experience on a first‐person shooter (FPS) game. Thirty‐five healthy participants, assigned to a videogaming and a control group, underwent a cognitive assessment and structural magnetic resonance imaging at baseline (T0), immediately post‐gaming (T1) and after  3 months (T2). Enhancements of cognitive performance were found on perceptual and attentional measures at both T1 and T2. Morphometric analysis revealed immediate structural changes involving bilateral medial and posterior thalamic nuclei, as well as bilateral superior temporal gyrus, right precentral gyrus, and left middle occipital gyrus. Notably, significant changes in pulvinar volume were still present at T2, while a voxel‐wise regression analysis also linked baseline pulvinar volume and individual changes in gaming performance. Present findings extend over the notion that videogame playing might impact cognitive and brain functioning in a beneficial way, originally showing long‐term brain structural changes even months after gaming practice. The involvement of posterior thalamic structures highlights a potential link between FPS games and thalamo‐cortical networks related to attention mechanisms and multisensory integration processing.
Muscle ciliary neurotrophic factor receptor α contributes to motor neuron STAT3 activation following peripheral nerve lesion
Authors: Lee Nancy , Spearry Rachel P. , Rydyznski Carolyn E. , MacLennan A. John
Published: December 2018

Expression of the ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) receptor essential ligand binding subunit, CNTF receptor α (CNTFRα), is induced in motor neurons and skeletal muscle following peripheral nerve lesion. We previously found muscle CNTFRα promotes motor neuron axon regeneration post‐lesion. Both nerve lesion and CNTF administration activate motor neuron signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3), a transcription factor implicated in axon growth, suggesting CNTF receptors may contribute to the lesion‐induced STAT3 activation. However, many receptor types signal through STAT3, and if CNTF receptors contribute, motor neuron receptors seemed most likely to regulate motor neuron STAT3. To determine the role played by muscle CNTFRα, we used in vivo, muscle‐specific CNTFRα depletion in mice and report here that this selectively impairs the second phase, sustained motor neuron STAT3 activation post‐lesion. Thus, muscle CNTFRα makes an essential contribution to motor neuron STAT3 activation during axon regeneration and may thereby promote axon regeneration through such signaling. We also report CNTFRα quantitative PCR suggesting involvement of many denervated muscle types, as well as muscle damaged at the lesion site. The present data add to the evidence suggesting that enhancing muscle CNTFRα expression may promote motor neuron regeneration in trauma and disease.
Insular resting state functional connectivity is associated with gut microbiota diversity
Authors: Curtis Kaylah , Stewart Christopher J. , Robinson Meghan , Molfese David L. , Gosnell Savannah N. , Kosten Thomas R. , Petrosino Joseph F. , De La Garza Richard , Salas Ramiro
Published: December 2018

The gut microbiota has recently gained attention as a possible modulator of brain activity. A number of reports suggest that the microbiota may be associated with neuropsychiatric conditions such as major depressive disorder, autism and anxiety. The gut microbiota is thought to influence the brain via vagus nerve signalling, among other possible mechanisms. The insula processes and integrates these vagal signals. To determine if microbiota diversity and structure modulate brain activity, we collected faecal samples and examined insular function using resting state functional connectivity (RSFC). Thirty healthy participants (non‐smokers, tobacco smokers and electronic cigarette users, n = 10 each) were studied. We found that the RSFC between the insula and several regions (frontal pole left, lateral occipital cortex right, lingual gyrus right and cerebellum 4, 5 and vermis 9) were associated with bacterial microbiota diversity and structure. In addition, two specific bacteria genera, Prevotella and Bacteroides, were specifically different in tobacco smokers and also associated with insular connectivity. In conclusion, we show that insular connectivity is associated with microbiome diversity, structure and at least two specific bateria genera. Furthemore, this association is potentially modulated by tobacco smoking, although the sample sizes for the different smoking groups were small and this result needs validation in a larger cohort. While replication is necessary, the microbiota is a readily accessible therapeutic target for modulating insular connectivity, which has previously been shown to be abnormal in anxiety and tobacco use disorders.
The overlooked aspect of excitotoxicity: Glutamate‐independent excitotoxicity in traumatic brain injuries
Authors: Tehse Joel , Taghibiglou Changiz
Published: December 2018

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a leading major cause of morbidity and mortality in youth and individuals under 45 year age. A wide variety of cellular and molecular mechanisms have been identified contributing to the pathogenesis of TBI. A better understanding of the pathophysiology behind TBI is essential for providing more effective treatment. Excitotoxicity as one of the secondary molecular events is a major contributing factor in apoptosis and neuronal death following the initial injury in TBI. Excitotoxicity is the rapid overload and influx of calcium into the cell cytoplasm, activating a series of deleterious signaling cascades causing the cell to undergo apoptosis. Conventional understanding is that the rapid influx of calcium is initiated through glutamate release. However, there are overlooked glutamate‐independent mechanisms that cause the rapid calcium influx into the neuronal cytoplasm, evoking or contributing to excitotoxicity. Therefore, the focus of this review will be on the role of the glutamate‐independent excitotoxic mechanisms of the mechanosensitive response of NMDA receptors, mechanoporation of the cell membrane, ischemia, and the release of calcium from intracellular stores. In conclusion, the shear and stretch forces during a TBI event may result in the mechanosensitive activation of NMDA receptors which contribute to glutamate‐independent excitotoxicity.
Orf virus infection of human keratinocytes and dermal fibroblasts: Limited virus detection and interference with intercellular adhesion molecule‐1 up‐regulation
Authors: Schneider Laura E. , Protschka Martina , Müller Uwe , Muhsen Mahmod , Magin Thomas M. , Anderegg Ulf , Saalbach Anja , Büttner Mathias , Alber Gottfried , Siegemund Sabine
Published: December 2018

Orf virus (Parapoxvirus ovis, ORFV) is a dermatotropic virus causing pustular dermatitis in small ruminants and humans. We analysed isolated human primary keratinocytes (KC) and dermal fibroblasts (FB) for cell death and virus replication by infection with a patient‐derived ORFV isolate. ORFV infection was associated with rapid induction of cell death in KC allowing for considerable virus removal. Upon infection with ORFV, KC and FB harboured intracytoplasmic ORFV and showed viral protein presence; however, missing virus spread indicated an abortive infection. Upon ORFV exposure, KC but not FB secreted the pro‐inflammatory cytokine interleukin (IL)‐6. ORFV infection enhanced the frequency of KC expressing intercellular adhesion molecule (ICAM)‐1 which was independent of IL‐6. Interestingly, ORFV inhibited ICAM‐1 up‐regulation on infected but not on non‐infected KC. Even interferon‐γ, a potent inducer of ICAM‐1, up‐regulated ICAM‐1 only on non‐infected KC. Transfer of ORFV‐free supernatant from infected to non‐infected KC induced ICAM‐1 on non‐infected KC pointing to the involvement of soluble mediator(s). Similarly as in KC, in FB interference with ICAM‐1 up‐regulation by ORFV infection was also observed. In conclusion, we shed light on epidermal and dermal defense mechanisms to ORFV infection and point to a novel ICAM‐1‐related immune evasion mechanism of ORFV in human skin.
UV‐B‐activated B16 melanoma cells or HaCaT keratinocytes accelerate signaling pathways associated with melanogenesis via ANGPTL 2 induction, an activity antagonized by Chrysanthemum extract
Authors: Satou Gaku , Maji Daisuke , Isamoto Takayuki , Oike Yuichi , Endo Motoyoshi
Published: December 2018

Sunburn causes inflammation, which increases melanin production in skin and causes hyperpigmentation. Angiopoietin‐like protein (ANGPTL) 2 is an inflammatory mediator induced in sun‐exposed skin areas. However, whether ANGPTL2 functions in melanin production remains unclear. To assess this possibility, we overexpressed Angptl2 in the melanoma line B16 and in the keratinocyte line HaCaT. Relative to controls, Angptl2‐expressing B16 cells produced higher melanin levels via tyrosinase induction. Accordingly, Angptl2‐expressing HaCaT cells secreted relatively high levels of both endothelin‐1 (ET‐1) and α‐melanocyte‐stimulating hormone (α‐MSH). Moreover, treatment with an extract from Chrysanthemum indicum × Erigeron annuus (CE) suppressed ANGPTL2 expression and repressed tyrosinase induction in melanocytes and of α‐MSH and ET‐1 in keratinocytes. Our data suggest that ANGPTL2 expression in keratinocytes and melanin‐producing cells accelerates pigment production and that treatment of skin with a CE extract could prevent melanin accumulation.
In vitro and in vivo evidence of tyrosinase inhibitory activity of a synthesized (Z)‐5‐(3‐hydroxy‐4‐methoxybenzylidene)‐2‐thioxothiazolidin‐4‐one (5‐HMT)
Authors: Bang EunJin , Lee Eun Kyeong , Noh Sang‐Gyun , Jung Hee Jin , Moon Kyoung Mi , Park Mi Hwa , Park Yeo Jin , Hyun Min Kyung , Lee A Kyoung , Kim Su Jeong , Yang Jungho , Park Yujin , Chun Pusoon , Moon Hyung Ryong , Chung Hae Young
Published: December 2018

Tyrosinase is a key enzyme that catalyses the initial rate‐limiting steps of melanin synthesis. Due to its critical role in melanogenesis, various attempts were made to find potent tyrosinase inhibitors although many were not safe and effective in vivo. We evaluated tyrosinase inhibitory activity of six compounds. Among them, (Z)‐5‐(3‐hydroxy‐4‐methoxybenzylidene)‐2‐thioxothiazolidin‐4‐one (5‐HMT) had the greatest inhibitory effect and potency as the IC50 value of 5‐HMT was lower than that of kojic acid, widely‐known tyrosinase inhibitor. Based on in silico docking simulation, 5‐HMT had a greater binding affinity than kojic acid with a different binding conformation in the tyrosinase catalytic site. Furthermore, its skin depigmentation effect was confirmed in vivo as 5‐HMT topical treatment significantly reduced UVB‐induced melanogenesis in HRM2 hairless mice. In conclusion, our study demonstrated that 5‐HMT has a greater binding affinity and inhibitory effect on tyrosinase and may be a potential candidate for a therapeutic agent for preventing melanogenesis.
Quantum‐dots‐precipitated rare‐earth‐doped glass for ultra‐broadband mid‐infrared emissions
Authors: Wang Weichao , Xiao Yongbao , Zhou Bo , Xu Shanhui , Zhang Qinyuan
Published: December 2018

Mid‐infrared (MIR) fiber lasers have wide application prospects and great commercial value in the fields of medical operation, remote sensing and military weapon, etc. At present, Tm3+‐doped glass can obtain broadband luminescence at 2 μm, the introduction of Ho3+ or Er3+ ions also shows a tunable MIR emission but with limited success. Herein, the rare‐earth (RE) doped glass with quantum dots (QDs) precipitation is proposed for achieving ultra‐broadband MIR emissions. The types and sizes of QDs are determined by the XRD and TEM, and their optical properties are further characterized by the absorption and emission spectra as well as the lifetime decay curves. It is found that the diameter of the QDs is gradually increased from 1.7 to 5.1 nm by increasing the heat‐treated temperature from 490°C to 530°C, respectively. Interestingly, an ultra‐broadband emission covering 1400‐2600 nm is achieved from the heat‐treated glass upon the excitation of 808 nm laser diode as a result of an overlapped emission from Tm3+ and PbS. All results suggest that these QDs‐precipitated RE‐doped glasses have important application prospects in ultra‐broadband MIR laser glass, glass fiber, and fiber lasers.
Dilute magnetic semiconductor of ZnCoSe thin films: Structural, optical, and magnetic characteristics
Authors: Shaaban Essam R. , Mahasen Mohamed M. , Soraya Mohmoud M. , Yousef El Sayed , Mahmoud Safwat A. , Ali Gomaa A. M. , Elshaikh Haroun A.
Published: December 2018

A series of Zn1−xCoxSe (x = 0, 0.025, 0.050, 0.075, and 0.100) films using were evaporated (thickness of 1 μm) using electron beam gun. The effect of Co doping on the structural, optical, and magnetic properties has been investigated. X‐ray diffraction studies confirm formation of zinc blend structure for all Zn1−xCoxSe films. The crystallite size increases and the lattice strain decreases with the increase in Co content. The elemental constituents were characterized by energy dispersive X‐ray. Optical studies showed an increase in refractive index and a decrease in energy gap with the increase in the cobalt doping. The dispersion of the refractive index has been analyzed in terms of the Wemple‐DiDomenico single oscillator model. The oscillator parameters including the single oscillator energy (Eo), the dispersion energy (Ed), and the static refractive index (n0) were estimated. Magnetization measurements via vibrating sample magnetometer showed a hysteresis loop and confirmed room‐temperature ferromagnetism in Co‐doped ZnSe films.
Dual‐grained (Ti, W)C–Ni cermets by two‐step carbonization: Hot isotropic press sintering of NiTiW alloys and colloidal graphite
Authors: Xiong Huiwen , Wen Yu , Li Zhiyou , Zhou Kechao
Published: December 2018

Reactive sintering of crushed metals and carbon is advantageous for preparing toughened complete solid‐solution cermets (CSCs). Here, dual‐grained (Ti0.6, W0.4)C–18Ni cermets were prepared using a two‐step carbonization method. High‐energy milling of Ni–Ti–W–C (Ni(Ti0.6, W0.4)4C) mixture afforded NiTiW solid solution, which was then transformed into Ni6W6C by heating at 1250°C. Twinned (Ti, W)C platelets were formed by the carbonization of Ni2W4C during liquid sintering. W atoms that accumulated in the (111) planes of TiC promoted the {111} twin formation, leading to sandwich‐type (Ti, W)C platelets. Dense (Ti0.6, W0.4)C–18Ni cermets were obtained by hot isostatic press sintering in Ar with satisfactory Hv of 12.8 ± 0.2 GPa, high strength of 1960 ± 84 MPa and toughness of 15.80 ± 0.6 MPa·m1/2. A higher sintering temperature or graphite content accelerated the carbonization, resulting in coarser platelets with decreased aspect ratio. This study provides a new approach to modify the microstructure of CSCs and a method for preparing dual‐grained cermets.
Determination of ceramic flaw populations from component strengths
Authors: Cook Robert F. , DelRio Frank W.
Published: December 2018

A procedure is outlined for determining the population of flaws in manufactured ceramics from strength measurements of sampled components. The broad applicability of the procedure is demonstrated in a quantitative manner, using strength measurements from a range of ceramic materials (eg, glass, glass‐ceramic, single crystal, and polycrystal) with different flaw types (eg, bulk, surface, and edge). The deconvoluted flaw populations are mostly dominated by small flaws with extended large flaw tails and are all in domains of tens of micrometers. The procedure greatly extends the useful information to be gained by ceramics manufacturers and designers from strength distribution measurements and emphasizes the importance of identifying strength‐limiting characteristics within a flaw population.
Monolithic silicon carbide with interconnected and hierarchical pores fabricated by reaction‐induced phase separation
Authors: Zhang Bo‐xing , Zhang Yubei , Luo Zhenhua , Han Weijian , Qiu Wenfeng , Zhao Tong
Published: December 2018

Hierarchically porous silicon carbide (SiC) monoliths were fabricated based on polycarbosilane (PCS), divinyl benzene (DVB), and decalin, by a sequence of procedures including catalyst‐free hydrosilylation reaction‐induced phase separation, ambient‐pressure drying, calcination, and HF etching. The influences of ratios of each component on the phase separation were systematically studied. It was found that isotactic polypropylene added as a nonreactive additive could effectively tailor the microstructure and improve the mechanical properties of SiC monoliths. The resultant SiC monoliths mainly consisted of β‐SiC nanocrystals, and possessed low bulk density (0.7 g/cm3), high porosity (78%), large specific area (100.6 m2/g), high compressive strength (13.5 ± 1.6 MPa), and hierarchical pores (macropores around 350 nm, mesopores around 4 and 20 nm). These properties make SiC monoliths promising materials for catalyst/catalyst support, gas separator, and the reinforcement of high‐temperature composites.
Association between family history of colorectal cancer and the risk of metachronous colorectal neoplasia following polypectomy in patients aged < 50 years
Authors: Kim Nam Hee , Jung Yoon Suk , Park Jung Ho , Park Dong Il , Sohn Chong Il
Published: December 2018

Background and Aim

The relationship between a family history of colorectal cancer (CRC) and the risk of metachronous colorectal neoplasia (CRN) following polypectomy remains unknown. We aimed to compare the risk of metachronous CRN according to CRC family history in groups of patients aged < 50 and ≥ 50 years.

Methods

We studied patients who underwent ≥ 1 adenoma removal between 2010 and 2014 and follow‐up surveillance colonoscopic examinations until 2017.

Results

Among the 9866 patients studied, 544 (5.5%) had ≥ 1 first‐degree relatives (FDRs) affected by CRC. In patients aged < 50 years (n = 7787), as compared with having no family history of CRC, a positive family history in any FDR (hazard ratio [HR] 1.37, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.16–1.62), a father (HR 1.35, 95% CI 1.09–1.68), or a mother (HR 1.32, 95% CI 1.005–1.74) was associated with an increased risk of metachronous CRN after adjusting for confounding factors. However, in patients aged ≥ 50 years (n = 2079), there was no significant association between having an FDR with CRC and the risk of metachronous CRN. For metachronous advanced CRN, the association between its risk and family history of CRC was not observed in either the < 50 years or ≥ 50 years of age group.

Conclusions

Having an FDR with CRC at a young age (< 50 years) appears to be closely related to the risk of metachronous CRN. However, considering that the risk of metachronous advanced CRN did not depend on CRC family history, the interval of post‐polypectomy surveillance colonoscopy may not need to be adjusted depending on CRC family history.
A new approach of assessing patient safety aspects in routine practice using the example of “doctors handwritten prescriptions”
Authors: Sendlhofer Gerald , Pregartner Gudrun , Gombotz Veronika , Leitgeb Karina , Tiefenbacher Peter , Jantscher Lydia , Richter Christian , Hoffmann Magdalena , Kamolz Lars P. , Brunner Gernot
Published: December 2018

Aims and objectives

To test the method of self‐ and external assessment as a feedback system to decrease illegibility and incorrectness of handwritten prescriptions and to reduce additional workload for nursing staff.

Background

Illegibility and incorrectness of handwritten prescriptions occur very often and are the most crucial factors affecting patient safety.

Design

Self‐ versus external assessment using a 15 items checklist.

Methods

Nurses randomly selected five fever charts of their wards. Each fever chart was self‐ as well as externally assessed. Nurses and doctors took part in the self‐assessment, and the external assessment was performed by external experts. According to a monitor suspension system, assessment results were considered “green,” “yellow” or “red.” After the first assessment and issuing feedback of the results “red” scored wards by the external assessment, additional trainings were performed. Thereafter, a second assessment was performed to rate eligibility and completeness of prescriptions. The research and reporting methodology followed squire 2.0.

Results

In total, 580 fever charts were self‐ as well as externally assessed (290 in each of the two assessment periods). Out of the 58 participating wards, 31 were surgical and 27 were non‐surgical wards. Averaging over all checklist items, surgical and non‐surgical wards improved only slightly over time. Linear regression models for ward means showed that there were significant improvements over time for non‐surgical wards.

Conclusions

This method directly involves those who commit errors and stimulate learning from errors. The approach of self‐ and external assessment was a useful instrument to detect inadequate prescriptions and to monitor improvements.

Relevance to clinical practice

Significant improvements were achieved regarding correctness and legibility of handwritten prescription and helped to decrease additional workload for nursing staff and thereby enhanced patient safety.
Nurses’ perceptions about a web‐based learning intervention concerning supportive family conversations in home health care
Authors: Pusa Susanna , Dorell Åsa , Erlingsson Christen , Antonsson Helena , Brännström Margareta , Sundin Karin
Published: December 2018

Aims and objectives

To describe the perceptions that municipal primary healthcare nurses and municipal registered nurses had about a web‐based learning intervention concerning supportive family health conversations in municipal home health care.

Background

Even though family health conversations are well grounded in theory with several reported benefits for patients and families, most working nurses have little or no training in practising family systems nursing including family health conversations. Continued learning is necessary for nurses, where web‐based learning may be one answer of updating the professional skills and knowledge of nurses regarding supporting families.

Design

The study used a descriptive design and followed the “Consolidated criteria for reporting qualitative research” (COREQ) checklist.

Methods

Twenty‐one nurses participated in an educational intervention that consisted of web‐based learning and two face‐to‐face seminars about family systems nursing including family health conversations. The nurses were interviewed after completion, and the audio‐recorded interviews were transcribed verbatim and analysed using qualitative content analysis.

Results

The findings consist of nurses’ perceptions regarding the disposition of instruction, the prerequisites for learning and a changed approach when working with families. The findings are further reflected on through Illeris’ theory concerning learning triangle.

Conclusions

The findings are encouraging for educating nurses in family health conversations at their workplace, with the purpose of supporting patients and families. However, it is important to be aware of the different dimensions of learning, in addition to the appraisal of social aspects and organisational circumstances when educating nurses as they influence the utilisation of the knowledge.

Relevance to clinical practice

This web‐based learning intervention seems to be suitable for educating nurses in family health conversations and could be an appropriate step towards implementing these conversations in home health care with the purpose of supporting families.
Dementia‐friendly community initiatives: An integrative review
Authors: Shannon Kay , Bail Kasia , Neville Stephen
Published: December 2018

Aim

To synthesise international research conducted on dementia‐friendly community initiatives.

Background

The number of people living with dementia is increasing as a result of population ageing. Impairments related to neurological changes, together with environmental challenges, result in disability for people who have dementia. Led by the World Health Organization and Alzheimer's Disease International, initiatives have been undertaken internationally to promote social inclusion for people who have dementia. Communities where people with dementia are able to remain socially included are known as dementia‐friendly communities.

Design

An integrative review of the literature.

Methods

Scopus, MEDLINE, Web of Science and CINAHL Plus via Ebsco databases were searched for relevant articles. The PRISMA framework guided the article search and screening; reporting is in accordance with the PRISMA guideline. Eight eligible studies were identified. The methodological quality of the eligible studies was evaluated using the MMAT checklist. The matrix method was used to extract, abstract and analyse the data.

Results

Of the eight studies reviewed, five were from the UK and one each from Australia, New Zealand and Canada. Four major concepts were identified in the literature, and these are characteristics of dementia‐friendly communities, facilitators and barriers to community engagement for people with dementia, strategies for developing dementia‐friendly communities and challenges encountered when developing dementia‐friendly communities.

Conclusion

People with dementia are at the centre of dementia‐friendly initiatives, and these foster social inclusion. Collaborations and partnerships enhance development of dementia‐friendly communities; however, lack of resources and difficulty ensuring representation of marginalised groups provide challenges.

Relevance to clinical practice

An understanding of the impact of marginalisation and inequality on community participation for people with dementia is important for practitioners, enabling them to support those people. Senior nurses with this understanding can ensure services are able to meet the needs of a growing population with dementia.
Operative and anaesthetic factors influencing on delirium in the intensive care unit: An Analysis of electronic health records
Authors: An Yoo‐Sol , Jin Yinji , Jin Taixian , Hur Eun Young , Lee Sun‐Mi
Published: December 2018

Aims and objectives

To analyse the operation, anaesthesia and recovery‐related factors affecting the occurrence of delirium in the intensive care unit.

Background

The occurrence rate of postoperative delirium is high in surgical patients. Postoperative delirium most frequently occurs usually within 3 days after an operation.

Design

This study used a secondary data analysis based on a case–control study.

Methods

This study analysed data extracted from the electronic health records at a university hospital from October 2009–July 2015. One hundred and eighty patients with delirium admitted to the intensive care unit through the recovery room after surgery, and 720 nondelirium controls were included. A total of 17 variables were selected, and hierarchical logistic regression was performed to identify operative and anaesthetic factors influencing on delirium. STROBE statement was applied for reporting this study.

Results

The operation, anaesthesia and recovery‐related factors increasing the risk of delirium included Class II or higher in the classification system of American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status, continuous remifentanil infusion and lower than seven‐point postanaesthesia recovery score at the time of admission to the recovery room.

Conclusion

The operative and anaesthetic factors influencing the occurrence of delirium should be assessed when a patient is admitted to the ICU following an operation even if a patient is conscious.

Relevance to clinical practice

Identifying operative and anaesthetic risk factors for delirium can improve the prevention intervention and the patient outcome in the intensive care unit.
A survey on the prevalence and risk indicators of erosive tooth wear among adolescents in Guangzhou, South China
Authors: Li Jianbo , Fan Weihua , Lu Yu , Xuan Dongying , Liu Ziqiang , Huang Shaohong , Zhang Jincai
Published: December 2018

Background

Erosive tooth wear (ETW) has become a crucial oral health problem over the decades in China.

Objectives

To explore the prevalence and risk indicators of ETW among adolescents in Guangzhou, south China.

Methods

A cross‐sectional survey of 720 participants was conducted in Guangzhou, using an equal‐sized, stratified, multistage random sampling approach. The participants were from two different age groups (12‐ and 15‐year‐olds), 360 per group. The ratio of males to females was 1:1 in each group. ETW was recorded utilising the basic erosive wear examination (BEWE) index as the dependent variable. Independent variables included age, gender, region, socioeconomic status, dietary factors, oral health measures and others.

Results

The prevalence rates (weighted) of ETW and dentin exposure (DE) were 56.1% and 26.2% among adolescents in Guangzhou, with mean teeth (weighted) of 1.8 ± 2.5 and 0.6 ± 1.5, respectively. No matter the prevalence or the mean teeth, the 15‐year‐olds were higher than the 12‐year‐olds; the mean teeth of ETW of males was higher than that of females; the mean teeth of ETW and DE of the adolescents of low socioeconomic status were higher than those of high socioeconomic status. Medium to high risk levels were found for 10.1%. In the multiple regression model, age, gender and taking acidic foods/drinks before sleep were associated with ETW.

Conclusions

Moderate ETW in the permanent dentition was common among adolescents in Guangzhou. However, the teeth involved were low. Dietary factors and demographics were the main risk indicators.
Bringing benign ectomesenchymal odontogenic tumours to the lab: An in vitro study using an organotypic culture model
Authors: Bastos Victor Coutinho , Pereira Núbia Braga , Diniz Marina Gonçalves , Andrade Luciana Oliveira , Castro Wagner Henriques , Kitten Gregory Thomas , Gomez Ricardo Santiago , Gomes Carolina Cavalieri
Published: December 2018

Background

Benign neoplasms exhibit most of the cellular phenomena considered hallmarks of cancer, except the capacity to metastasize. Thus, the elucidation of the mechanisms associated with the progression of benign neoplasms may complement and clarify the mechanisms involved in carcinogenesis. Benign odontogenic tumours often result in facial deformities and morbidities, and have complex pathogenesis, mainly due to the diversity of interactions between the odontogenic epithelium and the ectomesenchyme. Primary cell culture of such tumours is not only difficult to be established and maintained, but also tumour cells lose characteristic cellular morphology. Considering gene expression, growth, migration, proliferation and cellular morphology are controlled by cell‐cell interactions and cell‐extracellular matrix interactions, cell culture in 3D substrates has gained space as a way to overcome some of the limitations of traditional monolayer cell culture systems.

Methods

In this study, fragments obtained from mesenchymal odontogenic tumours were cultured in type I collagen scaffolds. Invasion tests were performed in these models, as well as phenotypic characterization of the cultured tumours.

Results

The results obtained for the odontogenic myxoma and the cemento‐ossifying fibroma demonstrate a good reproduction of the growth pattern of these tumours under ex vivo conditions. Microscopic evaluation showed maintenance of cell viability in the explants for more than 30 days, without the presence of necrosis.

Conclusion

This is the first study involving long‐term 3D primary cultures of benign odontogenic tumours, which is expected to support complex approaches to cell and molecular biology, and to serve as an experimental model for testing molecular therapies.
CXCR4 enhances cisplatin resistance of human tongue squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Zhuang Xiu‐Mei , Zhou Bin
Published: December 2018

Background

The chemokine receptor 4 (CXCR4) plays an important role in tumor progression. Overexpressed CXCR4 is associated with a poor prognosis of patient with head and neck squamous cell carcinomas. However, the correlation between CXCR4 and chemotherapy resistance in tongue squamous cell carcinoma (TSCC) remains obscure.

Methods

Stable cisplatin‐resistant CAL27 CDDP and SCC25 CDDP cells were established and identified by CCK8 assay, and the CXCR4 expression was detected using qRT‐PCR and Western blot. CXCR4‐siRNA was transfected into TSCC CDDP cells, whose transfect efficiency was examined. Cisplatin sensitivity was further detected, as well as several proliferation and apoptosis‐related proteins.

Results

CAL27 CDDP and SCC25 CDDP cells were successfully established, which exhibited significantly higher cell viability and less apoptosis under cisplatin stimulation than that of parental cells. CXCR4 expression was increased in TSCC CDDP cells. After transfection of CXCR4‐siRNA, the expression of CXCR4 was reduced by 73% and 78% in CAL27 CDDP and SCC25 CDDP cells, respectively. CCK8 assay and flow cytometry assay revealed that the proliferative capacity under cisplatin stimulation significantly decreased after CXCR4 silencing. Moreover, increased TSCC CDDP cells were arrested in the G0/G1 phase after knockdown of CXCR4. Compared with negative control group, the expression of cyclin D1 and p‐AKT decreased, while that of p‐caspase‐3 and Bax significantly increased.

Conclusions

Silencing CXCR4 may evidently inhibit proliferation, induce apoptosis and enhance cisplatin sensitivity of TSCC CDDP cells by reduced cyclin D1 and p‐AKT, and increased p‐caspase‐3 and Bax.
Daily oral cyanocobalamin supplementation in Beagles with hereditary cobalamin malabsorption (Imerslund‐Gräsbeck syndrome) maintains normal clinical and cellular cobalamin status
Authors: Kook Peter H. , Hersberger Martin
Published: December 2018

Background

Efficacy of PO cobalamin (Cbl) supplementation in dogs with hereditary Cbl malabsorption (Imerslund‐Gräsbeck syndrome, IGS) is unknown.

Objectives

To evaluate PO Cbl supplementation in Beagles with IGS previously treated parenterally. We hypothesized that 1 mg cyano‐Cbl daily PO would maintain clinical and metabolic remission.

Animals

Three client‐owned Beagles with IGS and 48 healthy control dogs.

Methods

Prospective study. Daily PO cyanocobalamin (cyano‐Cbl; 1 mg) supplementation was monitored for 13 (2 dogs) and 8 months (1 dog). Health status was assessed by owner observations. Methylmalonic acid (MMA)‐to‐creatinine concentrations were measured using an ultra‐performance liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC‐TMS) method on urine samples collected monthly. Concurrent measurements of serum MMA concentration (n = 7; UPLC‐TMS) were available for 1 dog.

Results

All dogs remained in excellent health during PO supplementation. Urine MMA remained consistently low in 2 dogs (median, 2.5 mmol/mol creatinine; range, 1.2‐9; healthy dogs [n = 30], median, 2.9 mmol/mol creatinine; range, 1.3‐76.5). Urine MMA ranged from 38.9‐84.9 mmol/mol creatinine during the first 6 months in 1 dog already known to excrete comparable amounts when supplemented parenterally. Brief antibiotic treatment for an unrelated condition after 6 months resulted in low urine MMA (median, 2.8 mmol/mol creatinine; range, 1.9‐4.8) for the next 7 months. All concurrent serum MMA concentrations (median, 651 nmol/L; range, 399‐919) before and after month 6 were within the established reference interval (393‐1476 nmol/L; n = 48).

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

One milligram of cyano‐Cbl daily PO appears efficacious for maintaining normal clinical status and normal cellular markers of Cbl metabolism in Beagles with IGS.
The action mechanism and biocontrol potentiality of novel isolates of Saccharomyces cerevisiae against the aflatoxigenic Aspergillus flavus
Authors: Abdel-Kareem M. Marwa , Rasmey A.M. , Zohri A.A.
Published: December 2018

Inhibition of Aspergillus flavus growth and its aflatoxins production using the biocontrol agent Saccharomyces cerevisiae as well as to explore its mode of action was studied. Eight strains of S. cerevisiae strains were able to suppress the growth of A. flavus Z103. The maximum growth inhibition of A. flavus Z103 was obtained by living cells of S. cerevisiae EBF101 and S. cerevisiae 117 with 85 and 83%, respectively. The sporulation inhibition and hyphae deterioration of A. flavus Z103 by S. cerevisiae cells adhesion were observed under SEM; up to 99·8% inhibition of aflatoxins biosynthesis by A. flavus Z103 was resulted when the fungus was treated by autoclaved extracellular crude of S. cerevisiae. Also, the tested strains are potential to produce exo-chitinase which could be suggested as another mode of action for its antifungal activity. GC-MS analysis of S. cerevisiae 117 extracellular secondary metabolites revealed the existence of 4-Hydroxyphenethyl alcohol (46·32%), 4, 4-Dimethyloxazole (9·14%) and 1,2-Benzenedicarboxylic acid dioctyl ester (2·8%).

Significance and Impact of the Study: The use of Saccharomyces cerevisiae instead of chemical preservatives in fermented food, animal and fish feed and storage cereal grains could encourage the food industry to produce organic food free of chemical additives. Overall, our data suggest the possibility of using S. cerevisiae as an alternative treatment in the food industries to control the dispersion and aflatoxins production by Aspergillus flavus during storage. This method could provide an additional probiotic effect in the digestive tract of consumers after ingestion of the treated food. So, our study clarifies the exact mechanisms responsible for the reduction of the aflatoxin contents by S. cerevisiae
Serum adipocyte fatty acid‐binding protein levels: An indicator of non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease in Chinese individuals
Authors: Xu Yiting , Ma Xiaojing , Pan Xiaoping , He Xingxing , Wang Yufei , Bao Yuqian
Published: December 2018

Background & Aims

Serum adipocyte fatty acid‐binding protein (A‐FABP) is closely correlated to metabolic disorders such as obesity and insulin resistance (IR). Non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a typical feature of IR in the liver. The aim of this study was to explore the relationship between serum A‐FABP levels and NAFLD.

Methods

The study enrolled 728 subjects with normal glucose tolerance from communities. Serum A‐FABP levels were measured using a sandwich enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. The liver fat content was assessed by ultrasonography. The fatty liver index (FLI) was calculated to quantify the degree of liver steatosis. The upper quartile of homoeostasis model assessment‐insulin resistance (HOMA‐IR) in the total population was defined as IR. Adipose tissue insulin resistance (Adipo‐IR) was calculated to evaluate the impaired suppression of lipolysis in IR.

Results

Serum A‐FABP levels were significantly higher in subjects with NAFLD than in those without (P < 0.01). Moreover, subjects with IR had higher levels of A‐FABP than those without (P < 0.01). The proportion of IR or NAFLD and the levels of fasting free fatty acid (FFA) or Adipo‐IR displayed an upward trend as A‐FABP increased (P for trend < 0.05). After adjusting for gender, age, body fat, metabolic factors and liver enzymes, A‐FABP was independently correlated with NAFLD (P < 0.01). A‐FABP was a positive determinant of FLI (P = 0.006).

Conclusions

Serum A‐FABP levels were significantly elevated in NAFLD patients among a population with normal glucose tolerance. Serum A‐FABP levels were independently correlated with NAFLD after adjusting for confounding factors.
A double‐blind randomized controlled trial to assess efficacy of bromocriptine in cirrhotic patients with hepatic parkinsonism
Authors: Sahney Amrish , Sharma Barjesh Chander , Jindal Ankur , Anand Lovkesh , Arora Vinod , Vijayaraghavan Rajan , Dhamija Ravinder Mohan , Kumar Guresh , Bhardwaj Ankit , Sarin Shiv Kumar
Published: December 2018

Background

Parkinsonism like features can be seen in cirrhotics, possibly related to alterations in brain dopamine metabolism, transport and receptor integrity at basal ganglia. Hepatic parkinsonism is often not suspected and only ammonia‐reducing therapies are given to such patients. We investigated the efficacy and safety of bromocriptine, a dopaminergic agent, in patients with hepatic parkinsonism.

Patients and Methods

Cirrhotics were screened for the presence of extrapyramidal symptoms and were diagnosed as hepatic parkinsonism if any two of tremor, bradykinesia and/or rigidity were present, supported by MRI brain showing T1 hyperintensities in basal ganglia and substantia nigra. Patients were randomized to receive placebo (Gr A, n = 22) or bromocriptine (Gr B, n = 24) for 12 weeks. Complete, partial and non‐response were defined as 30%, 10%‐30% and <10% reduction,respectively, in Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale motor score.

Results

Of 1016 cirrhotics, 50 (4.9%) had hepatic parkinsonism. Patients in two treatment groups were comparable for MELD score, arterial NH3 and frequency of portosystemic shunts. Bromocriptine therapy for 12 weeks resulted in improvement in rigidity, tremors, bradykinesia and gait compared to placebo with complete and partial response in seven vs none (29.1%, 0%, P < 0.01) and 12 vs one (50%, 4.5%, P < 0.01) patients. Prolonged and more severe motor symptoms were associated with non‐response to bromocriptine therapy. There were no major side effects in either treatment group.

Conclusions

Hepatic parkinsonism is seen in ~5% cirrhotics. Bromocriptine is a safe and effective therapy for these patients and is more effective in mild to moderate hepatic parkinsonism.