bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High test positivity and low positive predictive value for colorectal cancer of continued faecal occult blood test screening after negative colonoscopy
Authors: Brown Jeremy P , Wooldrage Kate , Wright Suzanne , Nickerson Claire , Cross Amanda J , Atkin Wendy S
Published: May 2017

Objectives

The English Bowel Cancer Screening Programme offers biennial guaiac faecal occult blood test (gFOBT) screening to 60–74-year-olds. Participants with positive results are referred for follow-up, but many do not have significant findings. If they remain age eligible, these individuals are reinvited for gFOBT screening. We evaluated the performance of repeat screening in this group.

Methods

We analysed data on programme participants reinvited to gFOBT screening after either previous negative gFOBT ( n = 327,542), or positive gFOBT followed by a diagnostic investigation negative for colorectal cancer (CRC) or adenomas requiring surveillance ( n = 42,280). Outcomes calculated were uptake, test positivity, yield of CRC, and positive predictive value (PPV) of gFOBT for CRC.

Results

For participants with a previous negative gFOBT, uptake in the subsequent screening round was 87.5%, positivity was 1.3%, yield of CRC was 0.112% of those adequately screened, and the PPV of gFOBT for CRC was 9.1%. After a positive gFOBT and a negative diagnostic investigation, uptake in the repeat screening round was 82.6%, positivity was 11.3%, CRC yield was 0.172% of participants adequately screened, and the PPV of gFOBT for CRC was 1.7%.

Conclusion

With high positivity and low PPV for CRC, the suitability of routine repeat gFOBT screening in two years among individuals with a previous positive test and a negative diagnostic examination needs to be carefully considered.
Nurses’ contributions to the resolution of ethical dilemmas in practice
Authors: Barlow Nichola Ann , Hargreaves Janet , Gillibrand Warren P
Published: May 2017

Background:

Complex and expensive treatment options have increased the frequency and emphasis of ethical decision-making in healthcare. In order to meet these challenges effectively, we need to identify how nurses contribute the resolution of these dilemmas.

Aims:

To identify the values, beliefs and contextual influences that inform decision-making. To identify the contribution made by nurses in achieving the resolution of ethical dilemmas in practice.

Design:

An interpretive exploratory study was undertaken, 11 registered acute care nurses working in a district general hospital in England were interviewed, using semi-structured interviews. In-depth content analysis of the data was undertaken via NVivo coding and thematic identification.

Participants and context:

Participants were interviewed about their contribution to the resolution of ethical dilemmas within the context of working in an acute hospital ward. Participants were recruited from all settings working with patients of any age and any diagnosis.

Ethical considerations:

Ethical approval was obtained from the local National Research Ethics Committee.

Findings:

Four major themes emerged: ‘best for the patient’, ‘accountability’, ‘collaboration and conflict’ and ‘concern for others’. Moral distress was also evident in the literature and findings, with moral dissonance recognised and articulated by more experienced nurses. The relatively small, single-site sample may not account for the effects of organisational culture on the results; the findings suggested that professional relationships were key to resolving ethical dilemmas.

Discussion:

Nurses use their moral reasoning based on their beliefs and values when faced with ethical dilemmas. Subsequent actions are mediated though ethical decision-making frames of reference including deontology, consequentialism, the ethics of care and virtue ethics. Nurses use these in contributing to the resolution of these dilemmas. Nurses require the skills to develop and maintain professional relationships for addressing ethical dilemmas and to engage with political and organisational macro- and micro-decision-making.

Conclusion:

Nurses’ professional relationships are central to nurses’ contributions to the resolution of ethical dilemmas.
SOX4 induces tumor invasion by targeting EMT-related pathway in prostate cancer
Authors: Liu Yifan , Zeng Shan , Jiang Xianhan , Lai Dehui , Su Zhengming
Published: May 2017

SOX4 (sex-determining region Y-related high-mobility group box 4) is associated with tumor progression and poor clinical outcome in several cancers. This study aims to evaluate whether SOX4 affects the biological behaviors of prostate cancer and further elucidate whether this effect works through the epithelial–mesenchymal transition pathway. We investigated the expression of SOX4 in a series of prostate cancer tissues and adjacent noncancerous tissues, as well as in a panel of prostate cancer cell lines. Cell proliferation, migration, and invasion were evaluated in SOX4 knockdown prostate cancer cell lines by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide and Transwell assay. Our results showed that the expression of SOX4 was remarkably upregulated both in prostate cancer tissues and in cell lines. Knockdown of SOX4 repressed the ability of cell proliferation and migration of DU145 cells. Moreover, inhibition of SOX4 could reverse the epithelial–mesenchymal transition processes through upregulation of E-cadherin and downregulation of vimentin. This study provided evidence that SOX4 could serve as a potential therapeutic target in prostate cancer.
miR-133a acts as a tumor suppressor in colorectal cancer by targeting eIF4A1
Authors: Li Wenfeng , Chen Anqi , Xiong Lingling , Chen Ting , Tao Fengxing , Lu Yiyi , He Qin , Zhao Liang , Ou Rongying , Xu Yunsheng
Published: May 2017

Emerging evidence indicates that microRNAs play critical roles in carcinogenesis and cancer progression. In this study, miR-133a was found to be significantly downregulated in colon tumor tissues. We aimed to determine its biological function, molecular mechanisms, and direct target genes in colorectal cancer. From these results, we found that miR-133a was significantly downregulated in primary tumor tissues and colon cancer cell lines. Ectopic expression of miR-133a in colon cancer cell lines significantly suppressed cell growth, as evidenced by cell viability and colony formation assays, as well as reduced xenograft tumor growth in nude mice. However, the effect of miR-133a was abolished by the overexpression of eIF4A1. Moreover, miR-133a inhibited cellular migration and invasiveness. A luciferase activity assay revealed oncogene eukaryotic translation initiation factor 4A1 as a direct target gene of miR-133a, whose expression was inversely correlated with that of miR-133a. Our results demonstrate that miR-133a plays a pivotal role in colorectal cancer by inhibiting cell proliferation, invasion, and migration by targeting oncogenic eukaryotic translation initiation factor 4A1, which acts as a tumor suppressor and may provide a new potential therapeutic target in colorectal cancer.
LncRNA UCA1 promotes renal cell carcinoma proliferation through epigenetically repressing p21 expression and negatively regulating miR-495
Authors: Lu Yun , Liu Wei-Gang , Lu Jia-Hui , Liu Zhi Jun , Li Hai-Bin , Liu Gui-Jing , She Hong-Yan , Li Gui-Ying , Shi Xin-Hua
Published: May 2017

Long non-coding RNAs have recently emerged as important regulators in the pathogenesis and progression of cancers. The long non-coding RNA urothelial carcinoma–associated 1 is reportedly upregulated and functions as an oncogene in some tumors. However, the role of urothelial carcinoma–associated 1 in renal cell carcinoma is not well elucidated so far. In this study, we found that urothelial carcinoma–associated 1 was overexpressed in renal cell carcinoma tissues compared with the adjacent normal tissues, and higher urothelial carcinoma–associated 1 expression levels were positively associated with advanced tumor stage and poor survival time in renal cell carcinoma patients. Further studies showed that knockdown of urothelial carcinoma–associated 1 suppressed renal cell carcinoma cell proliferation and S-phase cell number in vitro. Moreover, urothelial carcinoma–associated 1 was found to be associated with enhancer of zeste homolog 2, which suppressed p21 expression through histone methylation (H3K27me3) on p21 promoter. We also showed that knockdown of urothelial carcinoma–associated 1 increased the p21 protein expression through regulating enhancer of zeste homolog 2. In addition, bioinformatics analysis and dual-luciferase reporter assays confirmed that miR-495 was a target of urothelial carcinoma–associated 1 in renal cell carcinoma, and urothelial carcinoma–associated 1 promoted cell proliferation by negatively regulating miR-495. These findings illuminated that urothelial carcinoma–associated 1 promoted renal cell carcinoma progression through enhancer of zeste homolog 2 and interacted with miR-495. Overall, overexpression of urothelial carcinoma–associated 1 functions as an oncogene in renal cell carcinoma that may offer a novel therapeutic target for renal cell carcinoma patients.
Tim-3-expressing macrophages are functionally suppressed and expanded in oral squamous cell carcinoma due to virus-induced Gal-9 expression
Authors: Dong Jianfeng , Cheng Lijun , Zhao Minchao , Pan Xiangfeng , Feng Zhiqiang , Wang Dawei
Published: May 2017

Oropharyngeal head and neck squamous cell carcinoma is a common malignant tumor in the oral cavity. High-risk human papillomavirus 16 infection is a major cause of oropharyngeal head and neck squamous cell carcinoma development. Strong antitumor immune responses, especially CD8+ T cell responses, are thought to be essential to effective cancer treatment and are associated with better prognosis in oropharyngeal head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. In this study, we examined the role of the Tim-3/Gal-9 pathway in oropharyngeal head and neck squamous cell carcinoma patients. We found that Gal-9 expression by CD4+ T cells was increased in human papillomavirus-positive oropharyngeal head and neck squamous cell carcinoma patients, but not in human papillomavirus-negative oropharyngeal head and neck squamous cell carcinoma patients. Increased Gal-9 secretion by CD4+ T cells presented multiple immunosuppressive effects. Coculturing monocytes with high Gal-9-expressing CD4+ T cells resulted in the expansion of Tim-3+ monocytes, which suppressed interferon gamma production by activated CD8+ T cells. Subsequently, total monocytes incubated with exogenous Gal-9, or high Gal-9-expressing CD4+ T cells, suppressed the expression of interferon gamma by CD8+ T cells. Exogenous Gal-9 and high Gal-9-expressing CD4+ T cells also suppressed the secretion of both interleukin 10 and interleukin 12 by monocytes. These effects are Tim-3/Gal-9-dependent because blocking Tim-3 and/or Gal-9 could enhance the support of CD8+ T cell interferon gamma production and the interleukin 10 and interleukin 12 secretion by monocytes. Together, these data suggest that the high Tim-3 expression in monocytes could be utilized by tumor-promoting Gal-9 expression on CD4+ T cells. Immunotherapy in human papillomavirus-positive oropharyngeal head and neck squamous cell carcinoma patients therefore faces an additional challenge posed by Tim-3 and Gal-9 and likely requires the blockade of these molecules.
Development of a quantitative PCR assay for measurement of trichechid herpesvirus 1 load in the Florida manatee (Trichechus manatus latirostris)
Authors: Ferrante Jason A. , Cortés-Hinojosa Galaxia , Archer Linda L. , Wellehan James F. X.
Published: May 2017

Trichechid herpesvirus 1 (TrHV-1) is currently the only known herpesvirus in any sirenian. We hypothesized that stress may lead to recrudescence of TrHV-1 in manatees, thus making TrHV-1 a potential biomarker of stress. We optimized and validated a TrHV-1 real-time quantitative probe hybridization PCR (qPCR) assay that was used to quantify TrHV-1 in manatee peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). Average baseline TrHV-1 loads in a clinically healthy wild Florida manatee ( Trichechus manatus latirostris) population ( n = 42) were 40.9 ± SD 21.2 copies/100 ng DNA; 19 of 42 manatees were positive. TrHV-1 loads were significantly different between the 2 field seasons ( p < 0.025). This optimized and validated qPCR assay may be used as a tool for further research into TrHV-1 in Florida manatees.
Building Nursing and Midwifery Capacity Through Rwanda’s Human Resources for Health Program
Authors: Uwizeye Glorieuse , Mukamana Donatilla , Relf Michael , Rosa William , Kim Mi Ja , Uwimana Philomene , Ewing Helen , Munyiginya Paul , Pyburn Renee , Lubimbi Nanyombi , Collins Anita , Soulé Isabelle , Burke Kelly , Niyokindi Josette , Moreland Patricia
Published: May 2017

Global disparities in the quantity, distribution, and skills of health workers worldwide pose a threat to attainment of the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030 and deepens already existing global health inequities. Rwanda and other low-resource countries face a critical shortage of health professionals, particularly nurses and midwives. This article describes the Human Resources for Health (HRH) Program in Rwanda, a collaboration between the Ministry of Health of Rwanda and a U.S. consortium of academic institutions. The ultimate goal of the HRH Program is to strengthen health service delivery and to achieve health equity for the poor. The aim of this article is to highlight the HRH nursing and midwifery contributions to capacity building in academic and clinical educational programs throughout Rwanda. International academic partnerships need to align with the priorities of the host country, integrate the strengths of available resources, and encourage a collaborative environment of cultural humility and self-awareness for all participants.
In My Hours of Need, I Was Robbed of My Family, Friends, Beliefs, and Education. A Mother’s Narrative on Her 14-Year-Old Daughter’s 9-Month Journey From Ill Health to Death
Authors: Bara David
Published: May 2017

The study utilized a highly qualitative, narrative, and free associative methodological approach to give a mother’s perspective of her teenage daughter’s 9-month journey from diagnosis of cancer to her death. Cancer is a unique chronic illness that impacts both physically and psychologically. The key findings of this study show that medical treatment alone is not enough and that professionals must understand the impact that cancer and the treatment have on the quality of life for the child and how the phrase surviving cancer has different meanings. It highlights the importance that family, friends, beliefs, and education have on supporting a teenager and the consequences of denying that access to all stakeholders.
Prediction of necking in thin sheet metals using an elastic–plastic model coupled with ductile damage and bifurcation criteria
Authors: Bouktir Yasser , Chalal Hocine , Abed-Meraim Farid
Published: May 2017

In this paper, the conditions for the occurrence of diffuse and localized necking in thin sheet metals are investigated. The prediction of these necking phenomena is undertaken using an elastic–plastic model coupled with ductile damage, which is then combined with various plastic instability criteria based on bifurcation theory. The bifurcation criteria are first formulated within a general three-dimensional modeling framework, and then specialized to the particular case of plane-stress conditions. Some theoretical relationships or links between the different investigated bifurcation criteria are established, which allows a hierarchical classification in terms of their conservative character in predicting critical necking strains. The resulting numerical tool is implemented into the finite element code ABAQUS/Standard to predict forming limit diagrams, in both situations of a fully three-dimensional formulation and a plane-stress framework. The proposed approach is then applied to the prediction of diffuse and localized necking for a DC06 mild steel material. The predicted forming limit diagrams confirm the above-established theoretical classification, revealing that the general bifurcation criterion provides a lower bound for diffuse necking prediction, while the loss of ellipticity criterion represents an upper bound for localized necking prediction. Some numerical aspects related to the prestrain effect on the development of necking are also investigated, which demonstrates the capability of the present approach in capturing the strain-path changes commonly encountered in complex sheet metal forming operations.
Product function combination design based on functional redundancy analysis
Authors: Lu Chunfu , Chai Hao , Tian Mengyang , Peng Xiang , Jiang Shaofei
Published: May 2017

Function combination designs integrate multiple product functions into a single product carrier. In this article, we proposed a function combination design method based on the functional redundancy analysis of parent products for the conceptual design process. According to the design task, we analyzed each parent product function carrier, established an expression model of functional elements based on the functional basis approach, and constructed a functional structure of the parent product based on relationships among energy, material, and signal flow. Then, we established a product function redundancy matrix and carrier redundancy matrix, and obtained redundancy functions and the principle structure carrier. We constructed a function carrier matrix for function combination products, sought the appropriate principle, established a design structure matrix, analyzed the coupling relationship between the principle scheme and structure carrier, and obtained a conceptual scheme of combination products through operations including reuse, variant, removal, and increase. Moreover, we used a sticker removal machine as an example to verify the validity of our function combination method.
Rethinking the Concept of Negativity: An Empirical Approach
Authors: Lipsitz Keena , Geer John G.
Published: May 2017

Over the last twenty years, there has been a tremendous amount written on “negativity” in political campaigns. Yet, there is a conceptual disconnect between the definition of negativity used by researchers and how citizens define negativity. In this article, we show how large this disparity is and what its consequences are. Using a nationally representative online survey of 17,400 Americans and nearly 100 scholars of American politics who viewed presidential ads from the 2012 general election, we show that citizen perceptions of negativity are much stronger predictors of political participation than scholar codings of negativity. This means researchers need to give serious thought to how they operationalize negativity in their work. If we have any interest in understanding how voters are affected by campaign information that they perceive as being negative, then we must collect data consistent with the public’s understanding of negativity. Otherwise, we risk the continuation of this conceptual disconnect.
Developing and Validating a Computerized Adaptive Test to Measure Broad and Specific Factors of Internalizing in a Community Sample
Authors: Sunderland Matthew , Batterham Philip , Carragher Natacha , Calear Alison , Slade Tim
Published: May 2017

Highly efficient assessments that better account for comorbidity between mood and anxiety disorders (internalizing) are required to identify individuals who are most at risk of psychopathology in the community. The current study examined the efficiency and validity associated with a multidimensional computerized adaptive test (CAT) to measure broad and specific levels of internalizing psychopathology. The sample comprised 3,175 respondents to an online survey. Items from five banks (generalized anxiety, depression, obsessive–compulsive disorder, panic disorder, social anxiety disorder) were jointly calibrated using a bifactor item response theory model. Simulations indicated that an adaptive algorithm could accurately ( rs ≥ 0.90) estimate general internalizing and specific disorder scores using on average 44 items in comparison with the full 133-item bank (67% reduction in items). Scores on the CAT demonstrate convergent and divergent validity with previously validated short severity scales and could significantly differentiate cases of DSM-5 disorder. As such, the CAT validly measures both broad and specific constructs of internalizing disorders in a manner similar to the full item bank and a static brief form but with greater gains in efficiency and, therefore, a reduced degree of respondent burden.
Preparing Home Health Aides to Serve as Health Coaches for Home Care Patients With Chronic Illness: Findings and Lessons Learned From a Mixed-Method Evaluation of Two Pilot Programs
Authors: Russell David , Mola Ana , Onorato Nicole , Johnson Sheniqua , Williams Jessica , Andaya Mark , Flannery Marki
Published: May 2017

This article highlights findings from a mixed-method evaluation of two pilot programs that utilized Home Health Aides (HHAs) as health coaches for home care patients with chronic illness, including (1) a dedicated health coaching program for patients with heart failure and (2) an integrated program for HHAs working with chronically ill patients. Interviews were conducted with HHAs and staff to understand their experiences implementing program activities. Data from clinical assessments and surveys were employed to examine the characteristics and outcomes of patients. HHAs viewed health coaching positively and described it as an informative process that is dependent on patient motivation and willingness to change. Patients in both programs reported improvement in self-care maintenance. Patients in the chronic illness program also reported improved quality-of-life.
Perioperative Management of Cardiac Transplant Recipients Undergoing Noncardiac Surgery: Unique Challenges Created by Advancements in Care
Authors: Jurgens Paul T. , Aquilante Christina L. , Page Robert L. , Ambardekar Amrut V.
Published: May 2017

Advancements in postcardiac transplant care have resulted in significant reductions in morbidity and increased life expectancy for cardiac transplant recipients. Consequently, many cardiac transplant recipients are living long enough to require subsequent noncardiac surgery. The perioperative care of heart transplant recipients presents a unique challenge as many of the common preoperative risk assessments do not apply to a transplanted heart, immunosuppressive medications have side effects and potential for drug-drug interactions, and the denervated heart results in an altered autonomic physiology and response to medications. Further adding to the challenge is that many of these noncardiac surgeries need to be performed urgently at nontransplant centers that may not be familiar with the care of these patients. This review aims to summarize the current data regarding preoperative assessment, perioperative immunosuppression management, intraoperative and anesthetic considerations, and outcomes of cardiac transplant recipients undergoing noncardiac surgery.
Salt Selection Matters: Differential Renal Toxicity With MDV1634.Maleate Versus MDV1634.2HCl
Authors: Guha Mausumee , Nguyen Linh , Poitout-Belissent Florence , Bedard Agathe , Raman Kavita
Published: May 2017

Salt forms of pharmaceutical compounds can have unique pharmacokinetic and toxicity properties. MDV1634 was evaluated for neurology indication and also demonstrated blood pressure (BP)-lowering effects in nonclinical studies. During the chemistry manufacturing campaign, 2 salt forms, dihydrochloride (2HCl) and maleate (MAL), which improved chemical stability and water solubility of the free base were identified. MDV1634.MAL showed better chemical attributes and was evaluated in toxicology studies for further development. A 28-day oral toxicity study in dogs with MDV1634.MAL demonstrated partially reversible renal toxicity. Although MAL salt is generally regarded as safe, renal toxicity is sometimes observed in rats and dogs. To evaluate contribution of each salt form to renal toxicity and BP lowering, an additional 28-day study was conducted with MDV1634.2HCL and MDV1634.MAL, which included toxicokinetics, continuous BP measurement in a subset of dogs, and sensitive urinary biomarker evaluation for temporal monitorability and reversibility of potential renal findings. In the repeat study, both salt forms showed similar exposures during the dosing period, but renal tubular toxicity was observed only with MDV1634.MAL and not with MDV1634.2HCl. The renal findings with MDV1634.MAL included early urinary biomarker changes (increase in albumin, clusterin, β2 microglobulin, and neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin); elevations in serum blood urea nitrogen and creatinine; and microscopic findings of partially reversible tubular basophilia, single cell necrosis, pigmentation, and mineralization. The renal findings in contrast to the BP findings were MAL-specific and considered not related to MDV1634, thereby under scoring the importance of salt forms in pharmaceutical development.
DNA Methylation Changes in Tbx3 in a Mouse Model Exposed to Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers
Authors: Shimbo Takashi , Dunnick June K. , Brix Amy , Mav Deepak , Shah Ruchir , Roberts John D. , Wade Paul A.
Published: May 2017

DE-71, a commercial mixture of polybrominated diphenyl ethers widely used in flame retardants, is a pervasive environmental contaminant due to its continuing release from waste material and its long half-life in humans. Although the genotoxic potential of DE-71 appears to be low based on bacterial mutagenicity, it remains a public health concern due to its reported involvement in tumor development. Molecular mechanisms by which DE-71 influences tumor incidence or progression remain understudied. We used liver carcinoma tissue from mice exposed to DE-71 to test the hypothesis that epigenetic alterations consistent with tumor development, specifically DNA methylation, result from long-term DE-71 exposure. We profiled DNA methylation status using the methylated-CpG island recovery assay coupled with microarray analysis of hepatocellular carcinoma DNA from animals exposed to DE-71. DE-71 exposure had little impact on global DNA methylation. However, we detected gene body–specific hypomethylation within the Tbx3 locus, a transcription factor important in liver tumorigenesis and in embryonic and cancer stem cell proliferation. This nonpromoter hypomethylation was accompanied by upregulation of Tbx3 mRNA and protein and by alterations in downstream cell cycle–associated marker expression. Thus, exposure to DE-71 may facilitate tumor development by inducing epigenetic programs that favor expansion of progenitor cell populations.
The Too Little/Too Much Scale
Authors: Vergauwe Jasmine , Wille Bart , Hofmans Joeri , Kaiser Robert B. , Fruyt Filip De
Published: May 2017

This article describes the too little/too much (TLTM) scale as an innovation in rating scale methodology that may facilitate research on the too-much-of-a-good-thing effect. Two studies demonstrate how this scale can improve the ability to detect curvilinear relationships in leadership research. In Study 1, leaders were rated twice on a set of leader behaviors: once using a traditional 5-point Likert scale and once using the TLTM scale, which ranged between –4 ( much too little), 0 ( the right amount), and +4 ( much too much). Only linear effects were observed for the Likert ratings, while the TLTM ratings demonstrated curvilinear, inverted U-shaped relationships with performance. Segmented regressions indicated that Likert ratings provided variance associated with the too little range of the TLTM scale but not in the too much range. Further, the TLTM ratings added incremental validity over Likert ratings, which was entirely due to variance from the too much range. Study 2 replicated these findings using a more fine-grained, 9 -point Likert scale, ruling out differences in scale coarseness as an explanation for why the TLTM scale was better at detecting curvilinear effects.
Clinical topographical anatomy of the gastro-oesophageal junction in the cat
Authors: Voutsinou Agni , Papazoglou Lysimachos G , Antonopoulos Ioannis , Rallis Timoleon S
Published: May 2017

Objectives

The purpose of the present study was to describe histologically the gastro-oesophageal junction in the cat and interrelationships of this region. Our hypothesis was that cats are devoid of abdominal oesophagus.

Methods

Three centimetres of the terminal oesophagus, the phreno-oesophageal membrane with 1–2 cm margins of the diaphragmatic crural muscle and the proximal 3 cm of the gastric cardia were obtained from nine domestic shorthair cats and one domestic longhair cat that were euthanased for reasons other than digestive tract pathology. Longitudinal samples were examined histologically. Evaluated parameters included the location of the phreno-oesophageal membrane with reference to the transition between the oesophageal and gastric mucosa, the thickness of the circumferential smooth muscle of the muscular layer of the distal oesophagus at points 3 mm and 6 mm cranial to the mucosa transition, and the thickness of the circumferential smooth muscle layer at the mucosa transition level. Median differences in the thickness of the smooth muscle layer were compared by performing non-parametric statistical analysis using the Mann–Whitney U-test.

Results

The transition of the oesophageal to gastric mucosa was abrupt and corresponded to the point of insertion of the phreno-oesophageal membrane at the diaphragm level in all cats. The mean thickness of the circumferential smooth muscle layer at the point of oesophageal to gastric mucosa transition was significantly greater than the mean thickness of the oesophageal circumferential smooth muscle layer at 3 mm and 6 mm cranial to the mucosa transition ( P ⩽0.05). The increased muscle thickness at the gastro-oesophageal junction correlates with the accepted location of the high-pressure zone, reflecting the caudal oesophageal sphincter. It seems that the whole oesophagus was situated within the thoracic rather than the abdominal cavity.

Conclusions and relevance

No distinct abdominal oesophagus was observed in nine domestic shorthair cats and one domestic longhair cat. These findings might have implications for the pathophysiology of hiatal hernia in cats.
Meat Intake and the Dose of Vitamin B3 – Nicotinamide: Cause of the Causes of Disease Transitions, Health Divides, and Health Futures?
Authors: Hill Lisa J , Williams Adrian C
Published: May 2017

Meat and vitamin B3 – nicotinamide – intake was high during hunter-gatherer times. Intake then fell and variances increased during and after the Neolithic agricultural revolution. Health, height, and IQ deteriorated. Low dietary doses are buffered by ‘welcoming’ gut symbionts and tuberculosis that can supply nicotinamide, but this co-evolved homeostatic metagenomic strategy risks dysbioses and impaired resistance to pathogens. Vitamin B3 deficiency may now be common among the poor billions on a low-meat diet. Disease transitions to non-communicable inflammatory disorders (but longer lives) may be driven by positive ‘meat transitions’. High doses of nicotinamide lead to reduced regulatory T cells and immune intolerance. Loss of no longer needed symbiotic ‘old friends’ compounds immunological over-reactivity to cause allergic and auto-immune diseases. Inhibition of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide consumers and loss of methyl groups or production of toxins may cause cancers, metabolic toxicity, or neurodegeneration. An optimal dosage of vitamin B3 could lead to better health, but such a preventive approach needs more equitable meat distribution. Some people may require personalised doses depending on genetic make-up or, temporarily, when under stress.
Effect of MoS2 on the tribological properties of carbon fabric composites under wet conditions
Authors: Qi Lehua , Pan Guangzhen , Fu Yewei , Zhang Xiang , Hou Xianghui , Li Hejun
Published: May 2017

Carbon fabric reinforced phenolic composites are very attractive for use as friction materials under wet conditions due to their excellent self-lubricity, wear resistance, and high mechanical strength. However, brittle fracture of carbon fabric bundles during friction is one of the major problems that limit their application. In this work, MoS2 particles were used as additives and friction modifiers to improve the wear and friction behaviors. The composites containing different amounts of MoS2 particulates (0–20 wt%) were fabricated by impregnation technique. The influence of MoS2 on the tribological properties under oil-lubricated conditions has been studied systematically. The experimental results revealed that tribological characteristics such as coefficient of friction and wear resistance were changed significantly with the relative amount of MoS2. Addition of MoS2 within 15 wt% was found to decrease the wear rates of the composites, while 20 wt% MoS2-filled composites exhibited highest wear rate compared to other test samples. Increasing MoS2 content resulted in a rise in the wear rate of the counterparts. Wear mechanisms had been investigated by scanning electron microscope, which could support the observed wear performance.
Healthcare professionals’ experiences of perinatal loss: A systematic review
Authors: Gandino Gabriella , Bernaudo Antonella , Di Fini Giulia , Vanni Ilaria , Veglia Fabio
Published: May 2017

Healthcare professionals’ psychological involvement in perinatal loss is a largely overlooked subject by healthcare systems, scientific research and prevention policies. A systematic scientific review has been carried out about emotional experiences, attributed meanings and needs conveyed by healthcare professionals in relation to perinatal loss. We identified 213 studies between 1985 and 2015, 20 of which were included in the present study for qualitative analysis. Our results point out the need for a targeted vocational training in perinatal loss, enabling healthcare professionals to achieve a proper management of their own internal states.
Traumatic exposure and posttraumatic stress disorder among flood victims: Testing a multiple mediating model
Authors: Quan Lijuan , Zhen Rui , Yao Benxian , Zhou Xiao
Published: May 2017

A total of 187 flood victims from Wuhu, a Chinese city affected most severely by a flood during July 2016, were selected to complete self-report measures of traumatic exposure, feelings of safety, fear, posttraumatic negative cognition, and posttraumatic stress disorder. The results found that traumatic exposure could directly predict posttraumatic stress disorder. Besides, traumatic exposure had indirect prediction on posttraumatic stress disorder through three ways, including a one-step path of negative self-cognition, a two-step path from feelings of safety to fear, and a three-step path from feelings of safety to negative self-cognition via fear. Implications and future directions are correspondingly discussed.
The development and application of a protocol for the writing, assessing, and validating of a corpus of relationship-focused text messages for new and expecting fathers
Authors: May Chris D , Fletcher Richard
Published: May 2017

In developed countries, antenatal education aims to reduce difficulties that mothers and fathers experience during transition to parenthood. However, fathers are often distracted from preparing themselves by the attention given to preparing and supporting mothers. Developments in digital communication present alternative means of supporting fathers at this time. Studies, across a range of health concerns, have reported successful outcomes from text-based interventions. Text messaging, focusing on the issues that cause paternal distress at this time, could provide timely, targeted, and effective support to fathers in their transition to parenthood. This study aimed to develop a corpus of messages that could be sent to new fathers during pregnancy and in the months after birth. Messages were intended to support new dads in caring for their own physical and mental health, nurturing strong relationships with their child, and developing strong parenting partnerships. The process employed in message development was similar to that previously employed in developing messages for people who had experienced a cardiac event. A corpus of messages and linked information focusing on fathers’ relationships with their children, partners, and themselves were initially developed by a core group. The corpus was then culled, refined, and expanded by a larger, more diverse, group of experts ( n = 46), including parents, academics, and practitioners. The iterative, consultative process used in this study proved to be a functional way of developing and refining a large corpus of timed messages, and linked information, which could be sent to new fathers during their transition to fatherhood.
Pervasive mobile healthcare systems for chronic disease monitoring
Authors: Huzooree Geshwaree , Kumar Khedo Kavi , Joonas Noorjehan
Published: May 2017

Pervasive mobile healthcare system has the potential to improve healthcare and the quality of life of chronic disease patients through continuous monitoring. Recently, many articles related to pervasive mobile healthcare system focusing on health monitoring using wireless technologies have been published. The main aim of this review is to evaluate the state-of-the-art pervasive mobile healthcare systems to identify major technical requirements and design challenges associated with the realization of a pervasive mobile healthcare system. A systematic literature review was conducted over IEEE Xplore Digital Library to evaluate 20 pervasive mobile healthcare systems out of 683 articles from 2011 to 2016. The classification of the pervasive mobile healthcare systems and other important factors are discussed. Potential opportunities and challenges are pointed out for the further deployment of effective pervasive mobile healthcare systems. This article helps researchers in health informatics to have a holistic view toward understanding pervasive mobile healthcare systems and points out new technological trends and design challenges that researchers have to consider when designing such systems for better adoption, usability, and seamless integration.
Consumer-led health-related online sources and their impact on consumers: An integrative review of the literature
Authors: Laukka Elina , Rantakokko Piia , Suhonen Marjo
Published: May 2017

The aim of the review was to describe consumer-led health-related online sources and their impact on consumers. The review was carried out as an integrative literature review. Quantisation and qualitative content analysis were used as the analysis method. The most common method used by the included studies was qualitative content analysis. This review identified the consumer-led health-related online sources used between 2009 and 2016 as health-related online communities, health-related social networking sites and health-related rating websites. These sources had an impact on peer support; empowerment; health literacy; physical, mental and emotional wellbeing; illness management; and relationships between healthcare organisations and consumers. The knowledge of the existence of the health-related online sources provides healthcare organisations with an opportunity to listen to their consumers’ ‘voice’. The sources make healthcare consumers more competent actors in relation to healthcare, and the knowledge of them is a valuable resource for healthcare organisations. Additionally, these health-related online sources might create an opportunity to reduce the need for drifting among the healthcare services. Healthcare policymakers and organisations could benefit from having a strategy of increasing their health-related online sources.
The event, the messianic and the affirmation of life. A post-critical perspective on education with Agamben and Badiou
Authors: Vlieghe Joris , Zamojski Piotr
Published: May 2017

In this article, we read together the work of two philosophers, Alain Badiou and Giorgio Agamben, as profound educational thinkers. This means that their philosophical approaches help us to articulate what is at stake in education today. As a starting point for this discussion we take their work on Saint Paul. This is because, throughout his Letters, Paul has found the appropriate words to think and speak about the fate of our world and about new ways of beginning with this world. Therefore, with their reading of Paul, Badiou and Agamben can be said to develop fresh ideas about the contemporary challenges of education. We argue that this joint educational reading of their work, opens a post-critical view on education. This is to say, the alternative we suggest is not just a criticism of the existing system, but an entirely affirmative one. It is about fidelity to an event which has the force to install a particular attitude towards life and which installs a messianic interruption of time. With Badiou and Agamben it can be shown that education is about the possibilities we have at our disposal to begin anew with our world – which turns education into an important political issue too. Following that thread, we give an ontological account of teaching, which defines the teacher not in terms of pedagogical expertise, but in terms of passion for a subject matter.
“Gay” or “Homosexual”? The Implications of Social Category Labels for the Structure of Mass Attitudes
Authors: Smith Brianna A. , Murib Zein , Motta Matthew , Callaghan Timothy H. , Theys Marissa
Published: May 2017

Multiple identity and identification terms are used in social science research on sexuality, including clinical terms such as “homosexual” and “heterosexual” and more colloquial terms such as “gay” and “straight.” In this article, we show that far from being synonyms, these terms have consequences for attitudes about gay and lesbian rights. We begin by providing a historical overview of the terms “homosexual” and “gay and lesbian,” showing the different connotations that social groups have come to associate with these terms. We then analyze a split-ballot experiment embedded in the 2012 American National Election Study (ANES) and show that group identity and authoritarianism shape attitudes toward “homosexual” rights differently than “gay and lesbian” rights.
The Plasminogen Activator Inhibitor 1 4G/5G Polymorphism and the Risk of Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Fekih-Mrissa Najiba , Mansour Malek , Sayeh Aicha , Bedoui Ines , Mrad Meriem , Riahi Anis , Mrissa Ridha , Nsiri Brahim
Published: May 2017

Objective:

The aim of this study was to determine whether plasminogen activator inhibitor 1 (PAI-1) is associated with the risk of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) in Tunisian patients.

Design and Methods:

We analyzed the genotype and allele frequency distribution of the PAI-1 polymorphism in 60 Tunisian patients with AD and 120 healthy controls.

Results:

The results show a significantly increased risk of AD in carriers of the 4G/4G and 4G/5G genotypes versus the wild-type 5G/5G genotype (4G/4G: 28.33% in patients vs 10.0% in controls; P < 10−3; OR = 8.78; 4G/5G: 55.0% in patients vs 38.33% in controls; OR = 4.45; P < 10−3). The 4G allele was also more frequently found in patients compared with controls; P < 10−3; OR = 3.07. For all participants and by gender, homozygotic carriers (4G/4G) were at an increased risk of AD over heterozygotes and women were at an increased risk over their male genotype counterparts. The odds ratio for AD among 4G/4G carriers for any group was approximately twice that of heterozygotes in the same group. Women homozygotes ranked highest for AD risk (OR = 20.8) and, in fact, women heterozygotes (OR = 9.03) ranked higher for risk than male homozygotes (OR = 6.12).

Conclusion:

These preliminary exploratory results should be confirmed in a larger study.
Abluminal-Coated Drug-Eluting Bifurcation-Dedicated Stent for the Treatment of Tibioperoneal Bifurcation
Authors: Niglio Tullio , Cirillo Plinio , Giugliano Giuseppe , Trimarco Bruno , Esposito Giovanni , Stabile Eugenio
Published: May 2017

Endovascular treatment of below-the-knee region disease is often challenging because of the involvement of arterial bifurcations. Several cases have been reported on the use of coronary stents for the treatment of these patients, but limited evidence is available on the use of dedicated coronary bifurcation devices. We here report the endovascular treatment of a symptomatic bifurcation lesion in below-the-knee region, using a self-expanding Biolimus A9–eluting stent in combination with a “conventional” coronary drug-eluting stent.
Low-Dose Dose–Response for In Vitro Nrf2-ARE Activation in Human HepG2 Cells
Authors: Bogen Kenneth T.
Published: May 2017

Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1), nuclear factor erythroid 2-like factor 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), and the antioxidant response element (ARE) are interacting components of a master regulatory signaling pathway that coordinates redox homeostasis, cytoprotective responses, and shifts in stem cell state. This study reexamined detailed dose–response (DR) data reported for in vitro Nrf2-ARE activation in human hepatoblastoma HepG2 cell lines containing either a ARE- bla or ARE- luc reporter at 12 different concentrations of each of 15 chemicals. The normalized study data were combined among chemicals exhibiting a positive response, yielding n = 531 (179) DR data for 9 (7) chemicals using the ARE- bla (ARE- luc) assay. Three-parameter linear/ kth-power regression fits obtained to each combined set of ARE- bla- or ARE- luc-assay response data provided good fits ( R2 = .99 or .91, respectively, Pfit > .99) that each incorporate a highly significant negative initial linear slope ( P = 4 × 10−5 or .00025) and an overall J-shaped DR pattern. Results from this reanalysis of high-resolution ARE response data support the hypothesis that nonlinear ARE-mediated adaptive cellular responses to oxidative stress are governed by an ultrasensitive molecular switch.
Necroptosis and microglia activation after chronic ischemic brain injury in mice
Authors: Zhang Shehong , Wang Yuyang , Xie Hongyu , Yu Qing , Wu Junfa , Wu Yi , Zhu Yulian
Published: May 2017

Microglia, which are the resident macrophages and the first line of defense in the brain, can be activated within hours and migrate toward the injury sites after acute and chronic ischemic brain injury. However, a few studies have reported the interaction between microglia activation and necroptosis signaling following ischemic damage to the brain. In this study, chronic ischemic brain injury was induced by bilateral carotid artery stenosis (BCAS) and mice were sacrificed at 30 days after surgery. Ionized calcium-binding adaptor molecule 1 (IBA1) and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) immunostaining were performed to determine glial cell activation and inflammatory response. Tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interferon-γ (INF-γ), and interleukin-1β (IL-1β) proteins from the brains were examined to confirm inflammatory cytokines after BCAS. RIP1 and RIP3 proteins were detected to determine necroptosis signaling by Western blot. The data suggested that inflammatory responses, microglia activation, and necroptosis signaling are features of brain tissue pathology following BCAS-induced chronic ischemic brain injury.