bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Forms of Capital and Habitus in the Decision to Go on Academic Exchange
Authors: Lehmann Wolfgang , Trower Holly
Published: February 2018

Although Canadian universities have made internationalization a strategic priority, only few Canadian students currently participate in any international study opportunities. Drawing on interviews with Canadian students who were about to spend some of their undergraduate education abroad as exchange students, or had recently returned from a study exchange, we argue that despite the importance of relatively high costs associated with international study experiences, cultural factors play a more important role in enabling the decision to study abroad. Being habitually exposed to travel in one's family, and having been encouraged to travel independently as a teenager or young adult emerge as important precursors to our participants’ decision to take part in study exchanges. Although one needs to engage critically with university administrators’ current preoccupation with internationalization, being exposed to an extended time abroad has shown to have positive effects, especially for otherwise underprivileged students. Given the exploratory nature of this study, we conclude with suggestions for further research aimed at confirming our findings and developing policy.
Preclinical characterization of anlotinib, a highly potent and selective vascular endothelial growth factor receptor‐2 inhibitor
Authors: Xie Chengying , Wan Xiaozhe , Quan Haitian , Zheng Mingyue , Fu Li , Li Yun , Lou Liguang
Published: February 2018

Abrogating tumor angiogenesis by inhibiting vascular endothelial growth factor receptor‐2 (VEGFR2) has been established as a therapeutic strategy for treating cancer. However, because of their low selectivity, most small molecule inhibitors of VEGFR2 tyrosine kinase show unexpected adverse effects and limited anticancer efficacy. In the present study, we detailed the pharmacological properties of anlotinib, a highly potent and selective VEGFR2 inhibitor, in preclinical models. Anlotinib occupied the ATP‐binding pocket of VEGFR2 tyrosine kinase and showed high selectivity and inhibitory potency (IC50 <1 nmol/L) for VEGFR2 relative to other tyrosine kinases. Concordant with this activity, anlotinib inhibited VEGF‐induced signaling and cell proliferation in HUVEC with picomolar IC50 values. However, micromolar concentrations of anlotinib were required to inhibit tumor cell proliferation directly in vitro. Anlotinib significantly inhibited HUVEC migration and tube formation; it also inhibited microvessel growth from explants of rat aorta in vitro and decreased vascular density in tumor tissue in vivo. Compared with the well‐known tyrosine kinase inhibitor sunitinib, once‐daily oral dose of anlotinib showed broader and stronger in vivo antitumor efficacy and, in some models, caused tumor regression in nude mice. Collectively, these results indicate that anlotinib is a well‐tolerated, orally active VEGFR2 inhibitor that targets angiogenesis in tumor growth, and support ongoing clinical evaluation of anlotinib for a variety of malignancies.
Osteopontin is essential for IL‐1β production and apoptosis in peri‐implantitis
Authors: Che Chengye , Liu Jie , Yang Jianjun , Ma Lei , Bai Na , Zhang Qian
Published: February 2018

Background and Purpose

Peri‐implantitis is caused by a cascade of host and microbial factors leading to an oral inflammatory disease. The inflammation proliferates into supporting tissues surrounding implants and may finally lead to a complete loss of osseointegration. Being a phosphorylated glycoprotein secreted by immunocompetent cells, osteopontin (OPN) is involved in the differentiation of odontoblast‐like cells during pulpal healing following tooth transplantation and the secretion of type I collagen in reparative dentin. But the production and function of OPN in peri‐implantitis has not been thoroughly evaluated.

Materials and Methods

Peri‐implant crevicular fluid (PICF) was collected from 28 healthy implants patients and 28 peri‐implantitis patients to determine the expression of OPN in response to the inflammation of peri‐implantitis by Western‐blot, Enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and immunofluorescence staining. THP‐1 macrophages infected by Porphyromonas gingivalis were chosen to reveal the production and function of OPN in peri‐implantitis by immunofluorescence staining, quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR), and Western‐blot.

Results

Results showed that OPN increased in most PICF of peri‐implantitis patients and in THP‐1 macrophages stimulated with P. gingivalis. The expression of OPN in response to P. gingivalis decreased at mRNA and protein levels when exposed to either the lectin‐type oxidized LDL receptor 1 (LOX‐1) neutralizing antibody or inhibitor pretreatment in THP‐1 macrophages. P. gingivalis induces OPN through the Erk1/2 MAPK dependent pathway. OPN neutralization decreased interleukin 1 beta (IL‐1β) expression on P. gingivalis infection, and the lower IL‐1β mRNA and protein levels were rescued by human osteopontin recombinant protein (rhOPN) in THP‐1 macrophages. RhOPN suppressed P. gingivalis induced apoptosis of the mitochondrial pathway in THP‐1 macrophage.

Conclusions

Overall, the results of this study provide insight into the essential roles of OPN for IL‐1β production and apoptosis in peri‐implantitis, as supported by the evidence from the study of patient's PICF and cell culture experiments.
EVERY DROP COUNTS: A WATER CONSERVATION EXPERIMENT WITH HOTEL GUESTS
Authors: Joo Hailey Hayeon , Lee Jungmin , Park Sangkon
Published: February 2018

We implement a field experiment with hotel guests to measure the effects of nonprice interventions on water conservation and customer satisfaction. In hotels, guests have no direct pecuniary incentive to conserve water, as consumers do at home, where they pay their own water bills. Because hotels earn greater profits when they manage to convince guests to conserve, guests may be suspicious of a hotel's stated social goal of water conservation. By implementing behavioral interventions that address these challenges, we find that our nudges can induce guests to reduce their water consumption, even when no direct monetary incentive is provided. Using post‐stay customer surveys, we detected no adverse effects on customer satisfaction due to these nudges. (JEL D12, I31, Q41, Q50)
Experimental and simulation studies on fatigue behavior of laminated glass having polyvinyl butyral and ethyl vinyl acetate interlayers
Authors: Vedrtnam A. , Pawar S.J.
Published: February 2018

Cyclic fatigue strength (CFS) of laminated glasses (LGs) with different interlayers and their different nominal thicknesses were compared. The effect of interlayer thickness, cyclic bending fatigue load, and interlayer type on CFS is clearly observed from this brief study. It was found that the LG‐PVB has comparatively lower CFS than LG‐EVA. There is an increment in CFS with an increment in critical interlayer thickness (significantly for an increment from 0.38 to 0.76 mm) in both LG‐EVA (prominent) and LG‐PVB. The maximum deformation at failure load at the corresponding number of cycles is obtained using the finite element model. The strain‐life relations for LG samples were established and shown by surface plots. The results of finite element analysis previously established fracture models were used to explain the fracture patterns of the LG samples. The conclusions of the study are useful for the selection of LG in fatigue prone LG structures.
Initiation and growth of short fatigue cracks in austenitic Sanicro 25 steel
Authors: Mazánová V. , Polák J.
Published: February 2018

Austenitic heat‐resistant stainless steel Sanicro 25, often used in energy production installations, was cyclically strained at room temperature, and initiation and growth of short fatigue cracks have been studied. Cylindrical specimens with pre‐existing shallow notch were cyclically strained under constant total strain amplitudes, while the surface relief, crack initiation, and short crack growth were observed, in‐situ, using optical and electron microscopes. Persistent slip markings were found to be the principal locations where natural fatigue cracks initiated. The character of the crack paths of short cracks was studied using SEM and EBSD techniques. The results exhibit prevailing transgranular crack growth, ie, along the persistent slip markings within the grains. The growth of the largest cracks in the central part of the shallow notch was measured for different applied strain amplitudes. Because the coalescence of initiated cracks plays a significant role during crack growth, the use of the “equivalent crack” concept gives adequate results in the description of the crack growth rate. The crack growth law of short cracks was established and compared with the Manson‐Coffin law of the material.
Using oral health assessment to predict aspiration pneumonia in older adults
Authors: Noguchi Shingo , Yatera Kazuhiro , Kato Tatsuji , Chojin Yasuo , Furuta Norihiko , Akata Kentaro , Kawanami Toshinori , Yoshii Chiharu , Mukae Hiroshi
Published: February 2018

Objective

To investigate the significance of comprehensive assessment of oral health using the revised oral assessment guide (ROAG) in older adults with pneumonia.

Background

Oral health plays a major role in the eating‐swallowing process. The role of comprehensive assessment of oral health in older adults with aspiration pneumonia has not been evaluated in detail. The ROAG is a screening tool for comprehensive assessment and has been shown to have a high sensitivity and specificity for the assessment of oral health.

Materials and methods

We retrospectively studied 238 adults with pneumonia, aged 65 years and above, in whom the ROAG score had been assessed between December 2014 and June 2016. Participants were divided into two groups based on aspiration risk, as defined by Marik et al; correlation between the ROAG score and the risk of aspiration was evaluated.

Results

Two hundred and fifteen adults (90.3%) were found to be at aspiration risk. According to the ROAG score, mild‐to‐moderate and severe oral problems were noted in 38 (16.0%) and 200 (84.0%) adults, respectively. Aspiration risk was noted in 68.4% and 94.5% of adults with mild‐to‐moderate and severe oral problems, respectively (P < .0001). The area under the receiver operating characteristics curve for ROAG to predict aspiration risk was 0.72 (95% confidence interval: 0.60‐0.84). Furthermore, a high ROAG score was an independent predictor of aspiration risk in our study population.

Conclusion

In clinical practice, oral health assessment using ROAG can help predict aspiration risk in older adults with pneumonia.
Lenalidomide as a novel therapy for gastrointestinal angiodysplasia in von Willebrand disease
Authors: Khatri N. V. , Patel B. , Kohli D. R. , Solomon S. S. , Bull‐Henry K. , Kessler C. M.
Published: February 2018

Introduction

Lenalidomide is a thalidomide analog with anti‐angiogenic properties. Previous case reports suggest its efficacy in preventing gastrointestinal bleeding (GIB) secondary to angiodysplasia (AD) in hereditary haemorrhagic telangiectasia and potentially in reversing AD. We present the first case series to explore lenalidomide as a treatment for AD‐related GIB in patients with von Willebrand disease (VWD).

Methods

A retrospective chart review was conducted to include patients with VWD, who were evaluated from 2010 to 2013 and who had received lenalidomide to treat recurrent GIB secondary to AD. All patients had failed single‐agent use of antifibrinolytic agents. Patients were observed for at least 2 years on therapy.

Results

Five patients (3 males; 68.2 ± 4.9 years) with VWD (3 with type 3 and 1 each with types 1 and 2a) and AD were found. Sites of AD included the stomach, duodenum, jejunum and colon. Lenalidomide was started at 5 mg oral daily. Uptitration to 10 and 15 mg in 1 patient each was necessary due to recurrence of GIB. The mean number of endoscopies performed for control of GIB post lenalidomide was significantly lower compared to pretherapy (0.25 vs 5.50; P = .001). Mean bleed‐free duration on lenalidomide was 12.6 ± 4.7 months. Three patients have reported no GIB on lenalidomide.

Conclusion

This case series demonstrates significantly reduced number of endoscopies and increased bleed‐free duration with lenalidomide treatment in selected patients with VWD and recurrent GIB from AD. Prospective multicenter trials are needed to further define the role of lenalidomide in the management of GIB from angiodysplasia and VWD.
Laboratory testing for factor VIII and IX inhibitors in haemophilia: A review
Authors: Miller C. H.
Published: February 2018

Inhibitors are antibodies directed against haemophilia treatment products which interfere with their function. Factor VIII (FVIII) inhibitors in haemophilia A and factor IX (FIX) inhibitors in haemophilia B are significant clinically when they require a change in a patient's treatment regimen. Their persistence may increase morbidity and mortality. Multiple laboratory tests are now available for detecting and understanding inhibitors in haemophilia. Inhibitors are traditionally measured by their interference in clotting or chromogenic factor assays. They may also be detected using immunologic assays, such as enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay or fluorescence immunoassay. Anti‐FVIII or anti‐FIX antibodies of IgG4 subclass best correlate with the presence of functional inhibitors. Improvements in inhibitor measurement have been recently introduced. Preanalytical heat treatment of patient specimens allows testing of patients without delaying treatment. Use of chromogenic and immunologic assays may aid in identification of false‐positive results, which are frequent among low‐titre inhibitors. Validated reagent substitutions can be used to reduce assay cost. New methods for defining assay positivity and reporting low‐titre inhibitors have been suggested. Challenges remain in the areas of quality control, assay standardization, monitoring of patients undergoing immune tolerance induction therapy and testing in the presence of modified and novel treatment products.
Non‐invasive assessment of kidney allograft fibrosis with shear wave elastography: A radiological‐pathological correlation analysis
Authors: Ma Maggie KM , Law Helen KW , Tse Kin Sun , Chan Kwok Wah , Chan Gary CW , Yap Desmond YH , Mok Maggie MY , Kwan Lorraine PY , Tang Sydney CW , Choy Bo Ying , Chan Tak Mao
Published: February 2018

Objectives

To evaluate the use of shear wave elastography in assessment of kidney allograft tubulointerstitial fibrosis.

Methods

Shear wave elastography assessment was carried out by two independent operators in kidney transplant recipients who underwent allograft biopsy for clinical indications (i.e. rising creatinine >15% or proteinuria >1 g/day). Allograft biopsies were interpreted by the same pathologist according to the 2013 Banff Classification.

Results

A total of 40 elastography scans were carried out (median creatinine 172.5 μmol/L [interquartile range 133.8–281.8 μmol/L]). Median tissue stiffness at the cortex (22.6 kPa [interquartile range 18.8–25.7 kPa] vs 22.3 kPa [interquartile range 19.0–26.5 kPa], P = 0.70) and medulla (15.0 kPa [interquartile range 13.7–18.0 kPa] vs 15.6 kPa [interquartile range 14.4–18.2 kPa]) showed no significant differences between the two observers. Interobserver agreement was satisfactory (intraclass correlation coefficient of the cortex 0.84, 95% CI 0.70–0.92 and intraclass correlation coefficient of the medulla 0.88, 95% CI 0.78–0.94). The areas under the receiver operating characteristic curves for detection of tubulointerstitial fibrosis were estimated to be 0.75 (95% CI 0.61–0.89), 0.85 (95% CI 0.75–0.95) and 0.65 (95% CI 0.53–0.78) for cortical, medullary tissue stiffness and serum creatinine, respectively.

Conclusions

Shear wave elastography can be used as a non‐invasive tool to evaluate kidney allograft fibrosis with reasonable interobserver agreement and superior test performance to serum creatinine in detecting early tubulointerstitial fibrosis.
Anti‐donor antibody induction following intramuscular injections of allogeneic mesenchymal stromal cells
Authors: Alagesan Senthilkumar , Sanz‐Nogués Clara , Chen Xizhe , Creane Michael , Ritter Thomas , Ceredig Rhodri , O'Brien Timothy , Griffin Matthew D
Published: February 2018

Allogeneic mesenchymal stromal cells (allo‐MSC) are a promising “off‐the‐shelf” therapy with anti‐inflammatory and pro‐repair properties. This study investigated humoral immune responses to intramuscular (IM) injections of allo‐MSC. Total and isotype‐specific anti‐donor IgG and donor‐specific complement‐mediated lysis were determined in sera from healthy mice 2 weeks after single or repeated IM injections of fully mismatched‐MHC allo‐MSC with comparison to mice receiving syngeneic MSC, allogeneic splenocytes or saline. In mice subjected to hind limb ischemia (HLI), anti‐donor IgG was analyzed following IM allo‐MSC injection with and without administration of the T‐cell immunosuppressant tacrolimus. Recipients of single and repeated IM allo‐MSC developed readily‐detectable anti‐donor IgG. Serum anti‐donor IgG levels were similar to those of allo‐splenocyte recipients but had higher IgG1/IgG2a ratio and variable capacity for complement‐mediated lysis of donor cells. The induced anti‐donor IgG bound readily to allo‐MSC and this binding was increased following allo‐MSC pretreatment with interferon gamma. In mice with HLI, IM injection of allo‐MSC into the ischemic limb was also associated with induction of anti‐donor IgG but this was abrogated by tacrolimus (FK‐506). The results indicate that allo‐MSC are inherently immunogenic when delivered intramuscularly to healthy and ischemic mouse hind limb, but induce an IgG1‐skewed humoral response that is suppressed by tacrolimus.
A Hitchhiker's guide to humanized mice: new pathways to studying viral infections
Authors: Skelton Jessica Katy , Ortega‐Prieto Ana Maria , Dorner Marcus
Published: February 2018

Humanized mice are increasingly appreciated as an incredibly powerful platform for infectious disease research. The often very narrow species tropism of many viral infections, coupled with the sometimes misleading results from preclinical studies in animal models further emphasize the need for more predictive model systems based on human cells rather than surrogates. Humanized mice represent such a model and have been greatly enhanced with regards to their immune system reconstitution as well as immune functionality in the past years, resulting in their recommendation as a preclinical model by the US Food and Drug Administration. This review aims to give a detailed summary of the generation of human peripheral blood lymphocyte‐, CD34+ haematopoietic stem cell‐ and bone marrow/liver/thymus‐reconstituted mice and available improved models (e.g. myeloid‐ or T‐cell‐only mice, MISTRG, NSG‐SGM3). Additionally, we summarize human‐tropic viral infections, for which humanized mice offer a novel approach for the study of disease pathogenesis as well as future perspectives for their use in biomedical, drug and vaccine research.
Estimating the burden of influenza‐associated hospitalizations and deaths in Chile during 2012‐2014
Authors: Sotomayor Viviana , Fasce Rodrigo A. , Vergara Natalia , De la Fuente Felipe , Loayza Sergio , Palekar Rakhee
Published: February 2018

Background

Influenza is a vaccine preventable disease that causes important morbidity and mortality worldwide. Estimating the burden of influenza disease is difficult. However, there are some methods based in surveillance data and laboratory testing that can be used for this purpose.

Objectives

Estimating the burden of serious illness from influenza by means of hospitalization and death records during the period between 2012 and 2014, and using information from Severe Acute Respiratory Illness (SARI) surveillance.

Methods

To estimate the Chilean rate of influenza‐associated hospitalizations and deaths, we applied the influenza positivity of respiratory samples tested in six SARI surveillance sentinel hospitals to the hospitalizations and deaths from the records with ICD‐10 codes from influenza and pneumonia.

Results

Annually, 5320 people are hospitalized for influenza and 447 die for this cause. The annual influenza‐associated hospitalization rate for the period was 71.5/100 000 person‐year for <5 years old, 11.8/100 000 person‐year for people between 5 and 64 years old; and 156.0/100 000 person‐year for ≥65 years. The annual mortality rate for the period was 0.08/100 000 person‐year for <5 years; 0.3/100 000 person‐year for people between 5 and 64 years; and 22.8/100 000 person‐year for ≥65 years.

Conclusions

This is the first study of influenza burden in Chile. Every year an important quantity of hospitalizations and deaths result from influenza infection. In countries in temperate zones, it is important to know the burden of influenza in order to prepare the health care network and to assess preventive intervention currently in practice and the new ones to implementing.
What is the effect of exercise on wound healing in patients with venous leg ulcers? A systematic review
Authors: Smith Daisy , Lane Rebecca , McGinnes Rosemary , O'Brien Jane , Johnston Renea , Bugeja Lyndal , Team Victoria , Weller Carolina
Published: February 2018

Standard best practice for the treatment of venous leg ulcers (VLUs) is compression bandaging of the lower leg to reduce hydrostatic pressure. There is considerable variation in reported healing rates when using this gold‐standard approach; therefore, a systematic and robust evaluation of other interventions is required. Exercise interventions, in addition to standard compression therapy, could improve wound‐healing time and prevent their recurrence. We have conducted a systematic review to examine the effects of exercise on wound characteristics, including time to heal, size and recurrence, pain, quality of life, adverse events, and economic outcomes. This review was registered with PROSPERO 2016:CRD42016046407. A systematic search of Ovid Medline, Ovid EMBASE, Ovid CINAHL, The Cochrane Library, PsycINFO, Web of Science, and PEDro was conducted on January 30, 2017, for randomised control trials to examine the effects of exercise on time to heal, size and recurrence, pain, quality of life, adverse events, and economic outcomes. Six studies met the inclusion criteria, but all had design flaws leading to biases, most commonly performance and selective reporting bias. Three studies compared a progressive resistance exercise programme (PREG) plus compression with compression alone for a period of 12 weeks. Low‐quality evidence indicates the following: possibly no difference in the proportion of ulcers healed (risk ratio [RR] 1.14, 95% CI 0.71 to 1.84, I2 36%; 3 trials, 116 participants); probably no difference in quality of life (mean difference [MD] 3 points better on 100 point scale with exercise, 95% CI −1.89 to 7.89, 1 trial, 59 participants); possible increase in the risk of adverse events with exercise (OR 1.32, 95% CI 0.95 to 1.85, 1 RCT, 40 participants); and no difference in ankle range of motion and calf muscle pump. Evidence was downgraded due to susceptibility to bias and imprecision. Recurrence, pain, and economic outcomes were not measured in these trials, and time to healing was measured but not fully reported in 1 trial. We are uncertain of the effects of other interventions (community‐based exercise and behaviour modification, ten thousand steps, supervised vs unsupervised exercise) due to the availability of low‐ or very low‐quality evidence only from single trials. The review highlights the need for further research, with larger sample sizes, to properly address the significance of the effect of exercise on VLU wound characteristics.
Threshold value of home pulse pressure predicting arterial stiffness in patients with type 2 diabetes: KAMOGAWA‐HBP study
Authors: Kitagawa Noriyuki , Ushigome Emi , Matsumoto Shinobu , Oyabu Chikako , Ushigome Hidetaka , Yokota Isao , Asano Mai , Tanaka Muhei , Yamazaki Masahiro , Fukui Michiaki
Published: February 2018

This cross‐sectional multicenter study was designed to evaluate the threshold value of home pulse pressure (PP) and home systolic blood pressure (SBP) predicting the arterial stiffness in 876 patients with type 2 diabetes. We measured the area under the receiver‐operating characteristic curve (AUC) and estimated the ability of home PP to identify arterial stiffness using Youden‐Index defined cut‐off point. The arterial stiffness was measured using the brachial‐ankle pulse wave velocity (baPWV). AUC for arterial stiffness in morning PP was significantly greater than that in morning SBP (P < .001). AUC for arterial stiffness in evening PP was also significantly greater than that in evening SBP (P < .001). The optimal cut‐off points for morning PP and evening PP, which predicted arterial stiffness, were 54.6 and 56.9 mm Hg, respectively. Our findings indicate that we should pay more attention to increased home PP in patients with type 2 diabetes.
Serum uric acid is associated with incidence of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction and cardiovascular events in patients with arterial hypertension
Authors: Gu Jun , Fan Yu‐Qi , Zhang Hui‐Li , Zhang Jun‐Feng , Wang Chang‐Qian
Published: February 2018

The objective of the present study was to evaluate clinical implications of serum uric acid (UA) on the progression of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) in hypertensive patients. A total of 1009 adult patients with left ventricular hypertrophy and suspected left ventricular diastolic dysfunction were enrolled at our hospital from January 2008 to December 2011. With a median follow‐up of 7.2 years, 136 (13.2%) patients developed new‐onsetHFpEFand 151 (15.0%) had major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs). Compared with the lowestUAtertile ofUA(<302 μmol L−1), subjects in the highest tertile (>367 μmol L−1) had a higher risk of developing new‐onsetHFpEF(HR: 1.761, 95%CI: 1.119‐2.772,P = .015) as well asMACEs (HR: 1.664, 95%CI: 1.086‐2.547,P = .019). Our findings indicate that hyperuricemia is associated with detrimental effects in terms of the incidence of new‐onsetHFpEFas well asMACEs in hypertensive patient.
Ordoliberalizing the Neighbourhood? The EU's Promotion of Regulatory Reforms in Egypt
Authors: Roccu Roberto
Published: February 2018

While the EU has long been promoting economic reforms in neighbouring countries, scant attention has hitherto been paid to its regulatory efforts. This paper addresses this empirical gap with reference to the EU's promotion of regulatory reforms in three economic sectors in Egypt: agriculture, banking and telecoms. It finds that these reforms are significantly, if selectively, informed by ordoliberal principles and practices. Two theoretical implications of this finding are explored. On the one hand, while this substantiates the institutional isomorphism hypothesis, for which the EU tends to export its own models elsewhere, the selectivity with which this occurs demonstrates greater instrumentality than usually maintained in this literature. On the other hand, understanding ordoliberalism as a variation within the neoliberal template shaping restructuring in Egypt, this paper moves beyond binary views of regulatory co‐operation and competition and thus also enriches debates on the EU as a global regulator.
Measuring the prevalence of intradialytic hypotension in a satellite dialysis clinic: Are we too complacent?
Authors: Steinwandel Ulrich , Gibson Nick , Towell‐Barnard Mandy , Parsons Richard , Rippey James JR , Rosman Johan
Published: February 2018

Aims and objectives

To measure the prevalence of symptomatic (S‐IDH) and asymptomatic intradialytic hypotension (A‐IDH) or postdialysis overhydration in a satellite haemodialysis clinic in Western Australia.

Background

Intradialytic hypotension is one of the most common side effects of haemodialysis caused by ultrafiltration provoking a temporary volume depletion. The prevalence of asymptomatic hypotension during dialysis has been rarely reported, but is considered to have the same negative consequences as symptomatic hypotension on various end organs like the brain and the gastrointestinal tract.

Design

Observational study on a retrospective 3‐month period of nursing recorded fluid‐related adverse events.

Methods

Data collection on the occurrence of S‐IDH and A‐IDH during a total of 2,357 haemodialysis treatments in 64 patients. Body weight of patients at the time of cessation of treatment was recorded, and patients, whose weight exceeded their ideal body weight by at least 0.5 kg, were classified as overhydrated.

Data analysis was performed using spss version 24 software.

Results

Symptomatic intradialytic hypotension was the most common adverse event measured in this cohort, and occurred during 221 (9.4%) of all treatments, whereas asymptomatic intradialytic hypotension occurred in 88 (3.7%) of all treatments. The total occurrence of intradialytic hypotension was 13.1%, and symptomatic was observed in 30 patients, implying that nearly every second patient had at least one symptomatic episode within 3 months. Overhydration occurred in a total of 103 (4.4%) of all treatments, and involved 17 patients.

Conclusions

Symptomatic and asymptomatic intradialytic hypotension were the most commonly observed adverse events in this cohort; overhydration occurrence was considerably less common.

Relevance to clinical practice

The high occurrence of hypotension‐related events demonstrates that ultrafiltration treatment goals in satellite dialysis clinics are sometimes overestimated, resulting in regular significant symptomatic episodes for the patient. Raising the awareness of the prevalence of IDH amongst renal nurses could be an essential initial step before collectively preventative strategies in haemodialysis satellite units are implemented.
Impact of workplace violence against nurses’ thriving at work, job satisfaction and turnover intention: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Zhao Shi‐Hong , Shi Yu , Sun Zhi‐Nan , Xie Feng‐Zhe , Wang Jing‐Hui , Zhang Shu‐E , Gou Tian‐Yu , Han Xuan‐Ye , Sun Tao , Fan Li‐Hua
Published: February 2018

Aims and objectives

To investigate the interrelationships between workplace violence, thriving at work and turnover intention among Chinese nurses and to explore the action mechanism among these variables.

Background

Workplace violence is a dangerous occupational hazard globally, and it is pervasive in the health service industry. As a corollary, workplace violence may produce many negative outcomes among nursing staff. Consequently, it hinders nurses’ professional performance and reduces nursing quality.

Design

A cross‐sectional online survey was conducted.

Methods

A total of 1,024 nurses from 26 cities in China were recruited from February–May 2016. An anonymous questionnaire was used in this survey. Participants’ completed data were collected using a demographics form and a 26‐item questionnaire consisting of scales addressing workplace violence, thriving at work, job satisfaction, subjective well‐being and turnover intention. To evaluate multivariate relationships, some multiple linear hierarchical regression analyses were performed.

Results

Workplace violence significantly negatively influenced nurses’ job satisfaction and thriving at work, and significantly positively influenced nurses’ turnover intention. Job satisfaction significantly predicted thriving at work and turnover intention. Job satisfaction not only fully mediated the relationship between workplace violence and thriving at work, but also partially mediated the relationship between workplace violence and turnover intention. Subjective well‐being moderated the relationship between workplace violence and job satisfaction and the relationship between workplace violence and nurses’ turnover intention.

Conclusions

Adverse effects of workplace violence were demonstrated in this study. Decreases in job satisfaction were a vital mediating factor. The moderating effect of subjective well‐being was helpful in reducing the harm of workplace violence to nurses and in decreasing their turnover intention.

Relevance to clinical practice

Workplace violence and its negative impact on nursing work should not go unnoticed by nursing managers. Nurses’ subjective well‐being is critical in controlling and mitigating the adverse effects of workplace violence.
Piecing Together the Empty Interior
Authors: Salen Pamela
Published: February 2018

Piecing Together The Empty Interior reflects on a body of digitally–produced photographic collages: “The Myth of Home” explores the psychological complexities of home as related to loss and longing. “Portraits” and “Portraits II” explore the room as a form of self–portraiture. In each of these works the room is portrayed through photogram images that depict an interior as empty, or in other words, devoid of people and objects. Here, an empty interior exists suspended in time in a state of entering a future or exiting a past. In this sense, an interior becomes an imaginary space pieced together in a virtual media and open to the construction of new interpretations about the architectural narrative of the room itself. The psychology and principles of Gestalt, and its influence on perception, provide a framework that situates these works as encounters with internal states of being; the mnemonic experience of space; and the embodiment of making images. These photographic works explore the transitory nature of empty interiors relative to memory and anticipation.
Head position affects the direction of occlusal force during tapping movement
Authors: Nakamura K. , Minami I. , Wada J. , Ikawa Y. , Wakabayashi N.
Published: February 2018

Despite numerous reports describing the relationship between head position and mandibular movement in human subjects, the direction and magnitude of force at the occlusal contacts have not been investigated in relation to head position. The objective was to investigate the effect of head position on the direction of occlusal force while subjects performed a tapping movement. Twenty‐three healthy adult subjects were asked to sit on a chair with their back upright and to perform 15 tapping movements in five different head positions: natural head position (control); forward; backward; and right and left rolled. The direction and magnitude of force were measured using a small triaxial force sensor. The Wilcoxon signed‐rank test and Bonferroni test were used to compare head positions in each angle of the anteroposterior axis direction and the lateral axis direction with respect to the superior axis. The force element in the anteroposterior axis shifted to the forward direction in the head position pitched backward, compared with control, pitched forward and rolled left positions (P = .02, <.01 and <.01, respectively). The force direction in the lateral axis with the head position rolled to the right or left shifted to the left and right directions, respectively, compared with those in the other positions (P < .05). Results of this study suggest that the head should be maintained in a position in which a stable tapping movement can be performed in a relaxed position without anteroposterior and lateral loading.
Genetic and Environmental Influences on Personal and Rhythmic‐Motor‐Activity Tempo in Children: A Twin Study
Authors: Suzuki Kunitake , Ando Juko
Published: February 2018

In this study, we investigated the degree to which genetics and environmental factors influence the tempo and tempo stability of rhythmic motor activity in young children, using a twin study design. A total of 116 twin children, aged 4 years, were asked to strike two small clash cymbals together in a cyclical manner, in three phases. In the first phase, children were asked to maintain a comfortable personal tempo of rhythmic motor activity (spontaneous motor phase). In contrast, in the other phases, children were required to synchronize rhythmic motor activity in response to the timing of a stimulus tone, or a memorized tempo. Large additive genetic, although negligible shared environmental influences, were observed in the spontaneous motor phase. However, environmental factors were estimated in the other two phases, while the additive genetic factor was nearly zero. These results indicate that the extent of genetic and environmental influences on individual differences in rhythmic motor activity can be modulated under different situations.
Comparison of physical chewing measures to consumer typed Mouth Behavior
Authors: Wilson Arran , Jeltema Melissa , Morgenstern Marco P. , Motoi Lidia , Kim Esther , Hedderley Duncan
Published: February 2018

The purpose of this study was to investigate the hypotheses that when presented with foods that could be chewed in different ways, (1) are participants jaw movements and chewing sequence measures correlated with Mouth Behavior (MB) group, as measured by the JBMB typing tool? (2) can MB group membership can be predicted from jaw movement and chewing sequence measures? One hundred subjects (69 female and 31 male, mean age 27 ± 7.7 years) were given four different foods (Mentos, Walkers, Cheetos Puffs, Twix) and video recordings of their jaw movements made. Twenty‐nine parameters were calculated on each chewing sequence with 27 also calculated for the first half and second half of chewing sequence. Subjects were assigned to a MB group using the JBMB typing tool which gives four MB groups (“Chewers,” “Crunchers,” “Smooshers,” and “Suckers”). The differences between individual chewing parameters and MB group were assessed with analysis of variance which showed only small differences in average chewing parameters between the MB groups. By using discriminant analysis, it was possible to partially discriminate between MB groups based on changes in their chewing parameters between foods with different material properties and stages of the chewing. A 19‐variable model correctly predicted 68% of the subjects' membership of a MB group. This partially confirms our first hypothesis that when presented with foods that could be chewed in different ways participants will use a chewing sequence and jaw movements that correlate with their MB as measured by the JBMB typing tool.

Practical applications

The way consumers chew their food has an impact on their texture perception of that food. While there is a wide range of chewing behaviors between consumers, they can be grouped into broad categories to better target both product design and product testing by sensory panel. In this study, consumers who were grouped on their texture preference (MB group) had jaw movements, when chewing a range of foods, which partially reflected group membership. Therefore, while MB group membership could not be predicted from jaw movement measurements, there were similarities in jaw movements within the members of the groups. A better understanding of how jaw movement during chewing relates to consumer sensory perception would aid in new solid product design with controlled textural attributes.
Serological responses to revaccination against HBV in HIV‐positive patients born in the era of nationwide neonatal HBV vaccination
Authors: Huang Yi‐Chia , Hsieh Szu‐Min , Sheng Wang‐Huei , Huang Yu‐Shan , Lin Kuan‐Yin , Chen Guan‐Jhou , Yang Shang‐Ping , Liu Wen‐Chun , Su Yi‐Ching , Sun Hsin‐Yun , Hung Chien‐Ching , Chang Shan‐Chwen
Published: February 2018

Background

Serological responses to revaccination against hepatitis B virus (HBV) are unclear in HIV‐positive adults who had undergone neonatal HBV vaccination and whose antibodies against HBV had waned in the era of combination antiretroviral therapy (cART).

Methods

Between 2000 and 2017, 666 HIV‐positive men who have sex with men (MSM) who were born after 1986, when nationwide neonatal HBV vaccination programme was implemented in Taiwan, were included for analyses. A serological response was defined when a hepatitis B surface antibody (anti‐HBs) titre ≥10 mIU/mL was measured 4‐24 weeks after the third dose of HBV vaccination.

Results

During the study period, 295 (48.7%) HIV‐positive MSM (mean age, 23.2 years) who had lost HBV seroprotection were eligible for revaccination; 171 (58.0%) received at least 1 dose (20‐μg) of HBV vaccine and 116 (39.3%) completed the 3‐dose schedule. The serological response rate to 3 doses of HBV revaccination was 74.0% and the rate of high‐titre response (anti‐HBs titre ≥100 mIU/mL) was 46.0%. The CD4 count before the first dose (per 50‐cell/μL increment, adjusted odds ratio, 1.14; 95% confidence interval, 1.01‐1.29) was positively associated with the serological response. The incident rate of HBV infection was 9.2 per 1000 person‐years of follow‐up among the patients who were non‐responders after revaccination.

Conclusions

Despite HBV vaccination in the neonatal period, the serological response rate to HBV revaccination in HIV‐positive MSM was modest and could wane rapidly. Regular testing of anti‐HBs should be integrated into the HIV care despite cART containing HBV‐active agents.
Episodic memory and theory of mind: A connection reconsidered
Authors: Hoerl Christoph
Published: February 2018

A familiar claim in the literature on episodic memory in both psychology and philosophy is that engaging in episodic recollection requires grasp of a theory of mind. In this paper, I re‐examine what connection, if any, there is between episodic memory and theory of mind. I first criticize the dominant way in which this connection has been construed theoretically, which has sought to link the possession of episodic memory with a grasp of the idea of representation, or the idea of informational access. I then argue for a novel, alternative, way of connecting episodic memory and theory of mind, which focuses on the role a grasp of the category ofan experiencemight be seen to play in episodic recollection. In doing so, I also draw attention to a dimension of our understanding of the mental which is as yet underexplored in the literature on theory of mind.
Low genetic diversity in small leading edge populations of the European paleoendemic Ramonda serbica (Gesneriaceae) in Bulgaria
Authors: Petrova Galya , Petrov Stefan , Möller Michael
Published: February 2018

Ramonda serbica Panč. (Gesneriaceae) is an endangered endemic species of the Balkan Peninsula which has been the subject of several studies in the past, but has not yet been investigated in terms of its genetic variation. Ramonda serbica is one of only five European representatives of the mainly subtropical family Gesneriaceae categorized as paleoendemics or Tertiary relicts sequestered in southern Europe by Quaternary climate oscillations. Here, an inter simple sequence repeat (ISSR) analysis was performed to determine the genetic diversity of five populations sampled from the geographically eastern fringe of its range in northwestern Bulgaria. We found relatively low levels of genetic diversity and significant genetic differentiation among the investigated populations, typical of a leading edge scenario. From a conservation point of view, the low genetic diversity, together with the presence of only few extant localities stress the need for urgent in situ and ex situ conservation actions to ensure the long‐term survival of R. serbica in Bulgaria.
Meta‐analysis and overview analysis of quantitative trait locis associated with fatty acid content in soybean for candidate gene mining
Authors: Qin Hongtao , Liu Zhangxiong , Wang Yuyang , Xu Mingyue , Mao Xinrui , Qi Huidong , Yin Zhengong , Li Yongliang , Jiang Hongwei , Hu Zhenbang , Wu Xiaoxia , Zhu Rongsheng , Liu Chunyan , Chen Qingshan , Xin Dawei , Qi Zhaoming
Published: February 2018

As soybean seed fatty acid content is valued in food, animal feed and some industrial applications, plant breeders continually aim to improve seed fatty acid constituent value. This study analysed 163 original quantitative trait loci (QTLs) related to soybean fatty acid content from databases and references and revealed 43 consensus QTLs. Meta‐analysis using BioMercator ver.2.1 indicated that these were located across 16 linkage groups (LGs) excluding LG D1a, LG C1, LG M and LG H. Moreover, the overview method was used to optimize these QTLs based on statistical analysis. Some valid QTL regions were narrowed down to 0.5 Mb and mapped on the same LGs as the meta‐analysis result. Furthermore, the functions of all genes located in these consensus QTL intervals were predicted and eight candidate genes were identified. KEGG pathway analysis indicated that Glyma.13G127900 and Glyma.18G232000 were involved in the fatty acid synthesis metabolic (pathway ID ko00071, ko00062, ko01040). These results lay a foundation for fine mapping of QTLs related to fatty acid content and marker‐assisted breeding in soybean.
UV‐B radiation delays flowering time through changes in the PRC2 complex activity and miR156 levels in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Dotto Marcela , Gómez María Sol , Soto María Soledad , Casati Paula
Published: February 2018

UV‐B is a high‐energy component of the solar radiation perceived by the plant and induces a number of modifications in plant growth and development, including changes in flowering time. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying these changes are largely unknown. In the present work, we demonstrate that Arabidopsis plants grown under white light supplemented with UV‐B show a delay in flowering time, and this developmental reprogramming is mediated by the UVR8 photoreceptor. Using a combination of gene expression analyses and UV‐B irradiation of different flowering mutants, we gained insight into the pathways involved in the observed flowering time delay in UV‐B‐exposed Arabidopsis plants. We provide evidence that UV‐B light downregulates the expression of MSI1 and CLF, two of the components of the polycomb repressive complex 2, which in consequence drives a decrease in H3K27me3 histone methylation of MIR156 and FLC genes. Modification in the expression of several flowering time genes as a consequence of the decrease in the polycomb repressive complex 2 activity was also determined. UV‐B exposure of flowering mutants supports the involvement of this complex in the observed delay in flowering time, mostly through the age pathway.
Seed dispersal via a new watercourse in a reconnected floodplain: differences in species groups and seasonality
Authors: Schwab André , Stammel Barbara , Kiehl Kathrin
Published: February 2018

Reconnection of floodplains to rivers to enhance fluvial dynamics is a favored method of floodplain restoration in Europe. It is believed that the restoration of hydrological conditions of the floodplain facilitates natural dispersal of target species, and hence the reestablishment, of typical plant communities. The aim of our study was to investigate whether floodplain target species could reach restoration sites via hydrochorous dispersal. We analyzed seed inflow from the river and seed dispersal in different sectors of a new watercourse in the Danube floodplain. Seeds were captured using 27 seed traps during three sampling periods of 3 weeks each from summer 2011 to spring 2012. After germination seedlings were identified, we detected a total of almost 39,000 seeds of 176 species, including 80 target species of riparian habitats. We found significant differences between seasons (most seeds in autumn/winter) and between stream sectors. Fewer seeds came in from the Danube (2,800 seeds) than were transported within the floodplain. Several new floodplain target species were detected, which had not been found in the aboveground vegetation or soil seed bank before the start of the restoration. Seeds of nonnative species did not disperse further than approximately 1 km. Our results indicated that hydrochorous seed dispersal from upstream habitats along the new watercourse was important for the establishment of target species and hence for the success of floodplain restoration. Technical water diversion weirs must be traversable for seeds, and small donor sectors upstream might enhance the reestablishment of target vegetation along new sectors downstream.