bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Salamander morph frequencies do not evolve as predicted in response to 40 years of climate change
Authors: Evans Annette E. , Forester Brenna R. , Jockusch Elizabeth L. , Urban Mark C.
Published: January 2018

The global climate is changing rapidly, yet biotic responses remain uncertain. Most studies focus on changes in species ranges or plastic responses like phenology, but adaptive evolution could be equally important. Studying evolutionary responses is challenging given limited historical data and a poor understanding of genetically variable traits under selection. We take advantage of a historical dataset to test for an adaptive response to climate change in a widespread, polymorphic amphibian, the eastern red‐backed salamander Plethodon cinereus. We resurveyed color morph frequencies across New England to test for an adaptive shift in response to climate change. We modeled historical and present‐day morph proportions as a function of climate and tested the accuracy of predictions both within and across different time periods. Our models showed moderate accuracy when predicting morph frequencies within time periods, but poor accuracy across time periods. Despite substantial changes in climate and significant relationships between morph frequency and climate variables within periods, we found no evidence for the predicted shift in morph frequencies across New England. The relationship between climate and color morph frequencies is likely more complex than originally suggested, potentially involving the interplay of additional factors such as microclimate variation, land use changes, and frequency‐dependent selection. Model extrapolation and changes in the correlation structure of climate variables also likely contributed to poor predictive ability. Evolution could provide a means to moderate the effects of climate change on many species. However, we often do not understand the direct links between climate variation, traits, and fitness. Therefore, forecasting climate‐mediated evolution remains an ongoing and important challenge for understanding climate change threats to species.
Exchange of greenhouse gases between soil and atmosphere: interactions of soil physical factors and biological processes
Authors: Smith K. A. , Ball T. , Conen F. , Dobbie K. E. , Massheder J. , Rey A.
Published: January 2018

This review examines the interactions between soil physical factors and the biological processes responsible for the production and consumption in soils of greenhouse gases. The release of CO2 by aerobic respiration is a non‐linear function of temperature over a wide range of soil water contents, but becomes a function of water content as a soil dries out. Some of the reported variation in the temperature response may be attributable simply to measurement procedures. Lowering the water table in organic soils by drainage increases the release of soil carbon as CO2 in some but not all environments, and reduces the quantity of CH4 emitted to the atmosphere. Ebullition and diffusion through the aerenchyma of rice and plants in natural wetlands both contribute substantially to the emission of CH4; the proportion of the emissions taking place by each pathway varies seasonally. Aerated soils are a sink for atmospheric CH4, through microbial oxidation. The main control on oxidation rate is gas diffusivity, and the temperature response is small. Nitrous oxide is the third greenhouse gas produced in soils, together with NO, a precursor of tropospheric ozone (a short‐lived greenhouse gas). Emission of N2O increases markedly with increasing temperature, and this is attributed to increases in the anaerobic volume fraction, brought about by an increased respiratory sink for O2. Increases in water‐filled pore space also result in increased anaerobic volume; again, the outcome is an exponential increase in N2O emission. The review draws substantially on sources from beyond the normal range of soil science literature, and is intended to promote integration of ideas, not only between soil biology and soil physics, but also over a wider range of interacting disciplines.
Relationship between enamel bond fatigue durability and surface free‐energy characteristics with universal adhesives
Authors: Nagura Yuko , Tsujimoto Akimasa , Barkmeier Wayne W. , Watanabe Hidehiko , Johnson William W. , Takamizawa Toshiki , Latta Mark A. , Miyazaki Masashi
Published: January 2018

The relationship between enamel bond fatigue durability and surface free‐energy characteristics with universal adhesives was investigated. The initial shear bond strengths and shear fatigue strengths of five universal adhesives to enamel were determined with and without phosphoric acid pre‐etching. The surface free‐energy characteristics of adhesive‐treated enamel with and without pre‐etching were also determined. The initial shear bond strength and shear fatigue strength of universal adhesive to pre‐etched enamel were higher than those to ground enamel. The initial shear bond strength and shear fatigue strength of universal adhesive to pre‐etched enamel were material dependent, unlike those to ground enamel. The surface free‐energy of the solid (γS) and the hydrogen‐bonding force () of universal adhesive‐treated enamel were different depending on the adhesive, regardless of the presence or absence of pre‐etching. The bond fatigue durability of universal adhesives was higher to pre‐etched enamel than to ground enamel. In addition, the bond fatigue durability to pre‐etched enamel was material dependent, unlike that to ground enamel. The surface free‐energy characteristics of universal adhesive‐treated enamel were influenced by the adhesive type, regardless of the presence or absence of pre‐etching. The surface free‐energy characteristics of universal adhesive‐treated enamel were related to the results of the bond fatigue durability.
Patient, carer and public involvement in major system change in acute stroke services: The construction of value
Authors: McKevitt Christopher , Ramsay Angus I.G. , Perry Catherine , Turner Simon J. , Boaden Ruth , Wolfe Charles D.A. , Fulop Naomi J.
Published: January 2018

Background

Patient and public involvement is required where changes to care provided by the UK National Health Service are proposed. Yet involvement is characterized by ambiguity about its rationales, methods and impact.

Aims

To understand how patients and carers were involved in major system changes (MSCs) to the delivery of acute stroke care in 2 English cities, and what kinds of effects involvement was thought to produce.

Methods

Analysis of documents from both MSC projects, and retrospective in‐depth interviews with 45 purposively selected individuals (providers, commissioners, third‐sector employees) involved in the MSC.

Results

Involvement was enacted through consultation exercises; lay membership of governance structures; and elicitation of patient perspectives. Interviewees’ views of involvement in these MSCs varied, reflecting different views of involvement per se, and of implicit quality criteria. The value of involvement lay not in its contribution to acute service redesign but in its facilitation of the changes developed by professionals. We propose 3 conceptual categories—agitation management, verification and substantiation—to identify types of process through which involvement was seen to facilitate system change.

Discussion

Involvement was seen to have strategic and intrinsic value. Its strategic value lay in facilitating the implementation of a model of care that aimed to deliver evidence‐based care to all; its intrinsic value was in the idea of citizen participation in change processes as an end in its own right. The concept of value, rather than impact, may provide greater traction in analyses of contemporary involvement practices.
Intervention for childhood obesity based on parents only or parents and child compared with follow‐up alone
Authors: Yackobovitch‐Gavan M. , Wolf Linhard D. , Nagelberg N. , Poraz I. , Shalitin S. , Phillip M. , Meyerovitch J.
Published: January 2018

Objectives

The study aims to assess the effects of family‐based interventions targeted to parents only or to parents‐and‐child for the prevention and treatment of childhood obesity.

Method

An open‐label randomized study was conducted in 247 children (166 girls, 5–11 years) with body mass index (BMI) in the 85–98th percentile. Participants were allocated to three groups: parents‐only (n = 89), parents‐and‐child (n = 84) and follow‐up alone (n = 74). The intervention consisted of 12 once‐weekly meetings with a dietician and psychologist. All children were followed for 2 years. Changes in anthropometric, clinical and lifestyle outcomes were assessed.

Results

The 3‐month intervention was completed by 58 (65.2%) in the parents‐only, 61 (72.6%) in the parents–child and 49 (66.2%) in the control group (P = .554). BMI‐standard deviation score (SDS) decreased from baseline to 3 months in both intervention groups (parents‐only: from 1.74 ± 0.31 to 1.66 ± 0.36, P < .001; parents–child, 1.83 ± 0.33 to 1.76 ± 0.36, P = .012), with no significant change in the controls (1.73 ± 0.32 to 1.70 ± 0.31, P = .301). The 2‐year follow‐up was completed by 45 in each of the intervention groups (50.5% and 53.5%, respectively) and 37 controls (50%) (P = .896). Compared with baseline, only the parents–child group showed a significant decrease in BMI‐SDS (1.56 ± 0.46, P = .006). The rate of children who met the criteria for metabolic syndrome tended to drop from 6.0% at baseline (14/232) to 1.5% at 3 months (12/137) (P = .109), with no significant between‐group differences in the rate of metabolic syndrome at baseline or at completion of the intervention.

Conclusions

An intervention programme that focuses on both parents and children was found to have positive short‐term and long‐term effects on BMI‐SDS.
Activation of human CD141+ and CD1c+ dendritic cells in vivo with combined TLR3 and TLR7/8 ligation
Authors: Pearson Frances E , Chang Karshing , Minoda Yoshihito , Rojas Ingrid M Leal , Haigh Oscar L , Daraj Ghazal , Tullett Kirsteen M , Radford Kristen J
Published: January 2018

Mice reconstituted with human hematopoietic stem cells are valuable models to study aspects of the human immune system in vivo. We describe a humanized mouse model (hu mice) in which fully functional human CD141+ and CD1c+ myeloid and CD123+ plasmacytoid dendritic cells (DC) develop from human cord blood CD34+ cells in immunodeficient mice. CD141+ DC are the human equivalents of murine CD8+/CD103+ DC which are essential for the induction of tumor‐inhibitory cytotoxic T lymphocyte responses, making them attractive targets to exploit for the development of new cancer immunotherapies. We used CD34+‐engrafted NSG‐A2 mice to investigate activation of DC subsets by synthetic dsRNA or ssRNA analogs polyinosinic‐polycytidylic acid/poly I:C and Resiquimod/R848, agonists for TLR3 and TLR8, respectively, both of which are expressed by CD141+ DC. Injection of hu mice with these agonists resulted in upregulation of costimulatory molecules CD80, CD83 and CD86 by CD141+ and CD1c+ DC alike, and their combination further enhanced expression of these molecules by both subsets. When combined, poly I:C and R848 enhanced serum levels of key cytokines associated with cross‐presentation and the induction of cytotoxic T lymphocyte responses including IFN‐α, IFN‐β, IL‐12 and CXCL10. These data advocate a combination of poly I:C and R848 TLR agonists as means of activating human DC for immunotherapy.
Improving patient adherence to secondary prevention medications 6 months after an acute coronary syndrome: observational cohort study
Authors: Brieger David , Chow Clara , Gullick Janice , Hyun Karice , D'Souza Mario , Briffa Tom ,   for the CONCORDANCE Investigators
Published: January 2018

Background

Most patients are recommended secondary prevention pharmacotherapies following an acute coronary syndromes (ACS).

Aim

To identify predictors of adherence at 6 months and strategies to improve adherence to these therapies.

Methods

Patients in the CONCORDANCE registry who were discharged on evidence‐based medications were stratified into those receiving ≥75% (‘adherent’) or <75% (‘non‐adherent’) of indicated medications at 6 months. Baseline characteristics, hospital and post‐discharge care were compared between groups. Multivariable logistic analysis identified independent predictors of adherence. The relative contribution of each clinical or treatment factor to ‘adherence’ was determined using an adequacy measure method.

Results

Follow‐up data were available for 6595 patients, 4492 (68.1%) of whom were ‘adherent’. Clinical factors predictive of adherence included previous stroke, percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) and hypertension (odds ratios (OR) 1.36–1.56); factors predictive of non‐adherence included discharge diagnosis of non–ST‐segment elevation myocardial infarction (vs unstable angina) (OR 0.51) and atrial fibrillation (OR 0.59). Discharge on ≥75% of indicated medications was a strong predictor of adherence at 6 months (OR 10.23, 95% confidence interval 7.89−13.27); in‐hospital management factors predicting non‐adherence were medical management alone (OR 0.34) and coronary artery bypass graft (OR 0.50) (both vs PCI). Post‐discharge predictors of adherence included cardiac rehabilitation (OR 1.36) and general practitioner attendance (OR 1.40).

Conclusion

Failure to discharge patients on indicated therapies is the most important modifiable predictor of adherence failure 6 months after an ACS. Implementing protocols to automate prescription of indicated discharge therapies, has the potential to reduce non‐adherence dramatically in the 6 months following discharge.
Characteristics of patients who progress from bridging to long‐term oxygen therapy
Authors: Levin Kovi , Borg Brigitte , Miller Belinda , Kee Kirk , Dabscheck Eli
Published: January 2018

Background

Patients with persistent hypoxia following an acute hospital admission may be discharged with ‘bridging’ domiciliary oxygen as per criteria defined by the Thoracic Society of Australia and New Zealand. The need for continuous long‐term oxygen therapy (LTOT) is then reassessed at a clinic review 1–2 months later.

Aim

To describe the characteristics of patients discharged from an acute hospital admission with continuous short‐term oxygen therapy (STOT), and subsequently to investigate for differences between subjects who proceeded to qualify for continuous LTOT versus those who were able to cease STOT at review.

Methods

This is a retrospective cohort study involving all subjects discharged from Alfred Health between 2011 and 2015 inclusive with bridging domiciliary oxygen. Multiple biochemical, physiological and demographic characteristics were collated and analysed.

Results

Of all patients prescribed continuous STOT at time of discharge, 47.3% qualified for LTOT at outpatient review. This cohort had a significantly lower PaO2 measurement at time of discharge, compared with those who no longer qualified.

Conclusion

PaO2 at time of discharge provides a signal with the potential to identify who will require continuous LTOT following an acute hospital admission. Additionally, this study highlights the need to re‐evaluate patients’ oxygen requirements during a period of clinical stability.
Does flavoured dentifrice increase fluoride intake compared with regular toothpaste in children? A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Vieira Thiago Isidro , Mangabeira Adrielle , Alexandria Adílis Kalina , Ferreira Daniele Masterson T. P. , Fidalgo Tatiana Kelly da Silva , Valença Ana Maria Gondim , Maia Lucianne Cople
Published: January 2018

Background

Toothpaste manufacturers encourage through aggressive marketing strategies the overconsumption of fluoridated dentifrices. There are conflicting results regarding fluoride intake from toothpastes in children.

Aim

The aim of this systematic review and meta‐analysis was to determine whether dentifrice flavour increases fluoride ingestion by children.

Design

We included clinical trials on children that evaluated the use of flavoured dentifrice – FD vs regular dentifrice – RD to identify the fluoride intake. An electronic search was performed in PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, The Cochrane Library, LILACS/BBO, and grey literature followed by manual search. The methodological quality of the studies was assessed using the Cochrane Collaboration common scheme for bias and ROBINS‐I tool. Data were analysed in subgroups such as low (G1) and ordinary (G2) fluoride concentrations of dentifrices. We carried out heterogeneity and sensitive analyses.

Results

For G1, the fluoride intake from RD was significantly higher than from FD [standardised mean difference = −2.57 (−3.26, −1.89), P < 0.00001]. For G2, the fluoride ingestion from RD was significantly higher than from FD [mean difference = −0.00 (−0.00, −0.00), P = 0.02].

Conclusions

There is evidence to support the null hypothesis that flavouring from dentifrice does not increase fluoride intake in young children.
Genetic analyses of linear profiling data on 3‐year‐old Swedish Warmblood horses
Authors: Viklund Å. , Eriksson S.
Published: January 2018

A linear profiling protocol was introduced in 2013 at tests for 3‐year‐old Swedish Warmblood horses. In this protocol, traits are subjectively described on a nine‐point linear scale from one biological extreme to the other. This complements the traditional scoring where horses are evaluated in relation to the breeding objective. This study aimed to investigate the suitability of the linear information for genetic evaluation. Data on 22 conformation traits, 17 movement traits, 14 jumping traits and one temperament trait from 3,410 horses tested between 2013 and 2016 were analysed using an animal model. For conformation traits, the heritabilities ranged from 0.10 for description of hock joint from behind to 0.52 for shape of the neck. For movement traits, the highest heritability (0.54) was estimated for elasticity in trot and the lowest (0.08) for energy in walk. The heritabilities for jumping traits ranged from 0.05 for the ability to focus on the assignment to 0.57 for scope. Genetic correlations between linear traits and corresponding traditionally scored traits were strong (−0.37 to in many cases <−0.9). The results show that the linear information is suitable for genetic evaluation and can be a useful tool for breeders.
A local risk map using field observations of the Asian longhorned beetle to optimize monitoring activities
Authors: Fragnière Y. , Forster B. , Hölling D. , Wermelinger B. , Bacher S.
Published: January 2018

The Asian longhorned beetle Anoplophora glabripennis (Motschulsky) (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae) is one of the most dangerous xylophagous pests affecting broadleaf trees in the world. Eradication programmes are undertaken in non‐native regions, requiring extensive resources and involving high costs. An adapted strategy must be set up to optimize the ratio cost/probability of success. We developed a method to generate a risk index of A. glabripennis presence at a local scale, in the surrounding area of an infestation, using field observations (counts of adult insects, exit holes and infested trees). The method, mathematically based on the bivariate symmetric Laplace distribution, has thus reasonable input requirements. The output risk map is easy to interpret and can be directly used by decision‐makers. We used our approach in three infestations in Switzerland. The risk map represented well the insect pressure (beetle population density). We highlighted the fact that survey boundaries, commonly chosen using constant distances from the infestation, should be selected regarding the spatial distribution of the insect pressure, to prioritize monitoring activities. The risk map provides a helpful instrument for advanced survey planning after a first overview, for example to decide which area and which host trees should be inspected for infestations.
Twelve‐week ravidasvir plus ritonavir‐boosted danoprevir and ribavirin for non‐cirrhotic HCV genotype 1 patients: A phase 2 study
Authors: Kao Jia‐Horng , Yu Min‐Lung , Chen Chi‐Yi , Peng Cheng‐Yuan , Chen Ming‐Yao , Tang Huoling , Chen Qiaoqiao , Wu Jinzi J
Published: January 2018

Background and Aim

The need for all‐oral hepatitis C virus (HCV) treatments with higher response rates, improved tolerability, and lower pill burden compared with interferon‐inclusive regimen has led to the development of new direct‐acting antiviral agents. Ravidasvir (RDV) is a second‐generation, pan‐genotypic NS5A inhibitor with high barrier to resistance. The aim of this phase 2 study (EVEREST study) was to assess the efficacy and safety of interferon‐free, 12‐week RDV plus ritonavir‐boosted danoprevir (DNVr) and ribavirin (RBV) regimen for treatment‐naïve Asian HCV genotype 1 (GT1) patients without cirrhosis.

Methods

A total of 38 treatment‐naïve, non‐cirrhotic adult HCV GT1 patients were enrolled in this multicenter, open‐label, single‐arm phase 2 study (NCT03020095). All patients received a combination of RDV 200 mg once daily (q.d.) plus DNVr 100 mg/100 mg twice daily (b.i.d.) and oral RBV 1000/1200 mg/day (body weight < 75/≥ 75 kg) for 12 weeks. The primary endpoint was the rate of sustained virologic response 12 weeks after the end of treatment (SVR12).

Results

Of 38 patients, all (100%) achieved SVR12. During the study, no treatment‐related serious adverse events, no patients discontinued treatment due to adverse events, and no deaths were reported. Six of 37 (16%) patients with available sequences had HCV NS5A resistance‐associated variants at baseline. All patients (6/6) with baseline NS5A resistance‐associated variants achieved SVR12.

Conclusions

Twelve‐week RDV and DNVr in combination with RBV for 12 weeks achieves the SVR12 rate of 100% in treatment‐naïve non‐cirrhotic Asian patients with HCV GT1 infection. This interferon‐free regimen is also safe and well tolerated.
Mobility Trajectories at the End of Life: Comparing Clinical Condition and Latent Class Approaches
Authors: Lunney June R. , Albert Steven M. , Boudreau Robert , Ives Diane , Satterfield Suzanne , Newman Anne B. , Harris Tamara ,   the Health Aging and Body Composition Study
Published: January 2018

Objectives

To assess mobility disability trajectories before death in a large sample of very old adults using two analytical approaches to determine how well they corresponded.

Design

Decedent sample from the Health, Aging and Body Composition (Health ABC) Study. Data were collected between 1997 and 2015.

Setting

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and Memphis, Tennessee.

Participants

Individuals randomly selected from well‐functioning white Medicare beneficiaries and all black community residents meeting age criteria (70–79) (N = 3,075).

Measurements

Participants were interviewed in person or by phone at least every six months throughout the study. Of the 1,991 participants who died by the end of the study, 1,410 had been interviewed for 3 years before death, including an interview 6 months before dying. We analyzed self‐reported mobility collected prospectively at 6‐month intervals during the last 3 years of life. We derived trajectories in two ways: by averaging decline within decedent groups prespecified according to clinical conditions and by estimating trajectory models using maximum‐likelihood semiparametric modeling.

Results

Ninety‐eight percent of decedents were classified according to 4 prespecified clinical conditions (sudden death, terminal, organ failure, frailty), which produced groups with different characteristics. Five disability trajectories were identified: late decline, progressive disability, moderate disability, early decline, and persistent disability. Disability trajectory and clinical condition grouping confirmed previous research but were only marginally related.

Conclusion

Derived disability trajectories and grouping according to clinical condition provide useful information about different facets of the end‐of‐life experience. The lack of fit between them suggests a need for greater attention to heterogeneity in disability in the period before death.
Near Visual Impairment Incidence in Relation to Diabetes in Older People: The Three‐Cities Study
Authors: Danet‐Lamasou Marie , Pérès Karine , Matharan Fanny , Berr Claudine , Carrière Isabelle , Tzourio Christophe , Delcourt Cécile , Bourdel‐Marchasson Isabelle
Published: January 2018

Objectives

To characterize the relationship between diabetes mellitus (DM) and future risk of near vision impairment (VI) in a community‐dwelling population of older people.

Design

Seven‐year population‐based longitudinal study.

Setting

Three‐Cities Study, a French prospective study designed to assess the risk of cognitive and functional decline attributable to vascular factors.

Participants

Community‐dwelling individuals aged 65 and older (N = 8,412).

Measurements

DM was determined at baseline according to self‐reported DM, antidiabetic treatment, and fasting blood glucose. Near visual acuity was measured at baseline and 2, 4, and 7 years later. Near VI was defined as a Snellen score greater than 20/30.

Results

DM was associated with a higher risk of near VI in an adjusted model (hazard ratio (HR) = 1.24, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.02–1.52, P = .03). Because of an interaction between Body Mass Index (BMI) and diagnosed DM, the longitudinal analyses were stratified according to BMI category. DM was associated with greater risk of near VI only in underweight (BMI <21.0 kg/m2, HR = 2.89, 95% CI = 1.18–7.03) and normal‐weight (BMI 21.0–24.9 kg/m2, HR = 1.60, 95% CI = 1.10–2.32), but not overweight (P = .69) and obese (P = .09) subjects.

Conclusion

DM is a risk factor for near VI in older people, particularly in those with a low or normal BMI. This risk profile should be taken into account in older adults to support their independence.
Association between hepatitis C infection in Thai patients with oral lichen planus: A case‐control study
Authors: Manomaivat Trin , Pongsiriwet Surawut , Kuansuwan Chatsri , Thosaporn Wacharaporn , Tachasuttirut Kathawut , Iamaroon Anak
Published: January 2018

Aim

The aim of the present study was to investigate the prevalence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection and evaluate liver enzyme levels in patients from upper northern Thailand with oral lichen planus (OLP).

Methods

A case‐control study of 101 patients with OLP and 101 patients without OLP was conducted. Peripheral blood was taken from each patient and screened for anti‐HCV antibody using immunochromatography. Positive samples were further confirmed using chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay (CMIA) and reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction. In addition, liver enzyme levels, alanine transaminase, aspartate transaminase, and alkaline phosphatase were evaluated using spectrophotometry.

Results

Immunochromatography and CMIA revealed that nine patients with OLP (8.9%) were positive for anti‐HCV antibodies, whereas only one patient without OLP was HCV positive (odds ratio = 9.78). All patients who were HCV positive had significantly higher liver enzyme levels than patients who were HCV negative.

Conclusions

The results of the present study indicated that OLP in certain patients was significantly associated with HCV. This could warrant screening for HCV‐infected patients with OLP in Thailand.
Effects of loneliness on illness perception in persons with a chronic disease
Authors: Özkan Tuncay Fatma , Fertelli Tülay , Mollaoğlu Mukadder
Published: January 2018

Aim and objectives

To determine the effects of loneliness on illness perception in persons with a chronic disease.

Background

How an illness is perceived not only affects all dimensions of a person's life but also plays an important role in his/her coping with the complications and consequences of the disease. One of the factors that influence the illness perception is loneliness.

Design

The study is a descriptive study.

Methods

The study sample included 206 individuals over the 18 years of age, conscious, having had a chronic illness at least 1 year, having no communication problems and agreeing to participate in the study after being informed about the study. Data were collected with the Personal Information Form, the Illness Perception Questionnaire and the University of California Los Angeles Loneliness Scale. The forms were administered to the participants in an unoccupied patient room, and the data were collected through face‐to‐face interviews.

Results

The results of the study revealed that individuals with a chronic disease perceived emotional symptoms accompanying the disease more intensely that they accepted their disease was a chronic one and that their personal control and treatment control of the disease were at a middle level. The mean score the participants obtained from the University of California Los Angeles Loneliness Scale was 38.49 ± 11.15. There was a significant negative correlation between this mean score and the mean scores obtained from the following subscales consequences, treatment control, illness perception and emotional representations.

Conclusion

In this study, it was concluded that the participants perceived their loneliness level as moderate and that their illness perception was negatively affected as their loneliness levels increased.

Relevance to clinical practice

The knowledge of clinical nurses about perception of patients with chronic illnesses and conditions affecting that perception will enhance compliance with the illness management or treatment strategies. Clinical nurses should observe residents closely for signs of depression and loneliness and support their sense of coherence to reduce emotional and social loneliness.
A new approach in exploring satisfaction with nursing care by nurses themselves
Authors: Elayan Rana M , Ahmad Muayyad M
Published: January 2018

Aims and objectives

To examine the level of satisfaction with nursing care from nurses’ perspectives, as patients and/or as caregivers for hospitalised relatives.

Background

Many studies that have examined patients’ satisfaction with nursing care in Jordan and worldwide found high ratings of satisfaction with nursing care among patients. These ratings may be inflated because patients, as the recipients of care, are often unequipped to judge specific aspects of care, unless the patient is also a nurse.

Methods

A descriptive cross‐sectional design was used. Data were collected using the Patients Satisfaction with Nursing Care Quality Questionnaire. The total sample size was 231 registered nurses from eight hospitals in Jordan. All participating nurses had either experienced hospitalisation for a minimum of 24 hr for themselves or as caregivers for one of their close relatives, currently or within the last year.

Results

The average age of participants was 31.7 (SD = 0.40) years. Most of the participants were female with <10 years of work experience. The average score for the level of satisfaction was 2.96 of 5, which reflects a moderate level of satisfaction with nursing care. None of the 19 items of the satisfaction scale exceeded the moderate level. The highest mean score of satisfaction level was 3.20 (SD = 1.17) for the skills and competence of nurses, while the lowest mean score was 2.68 (1.22) for the coordination of care after discharge.

Conclusion

Nurses as patients and/or caregivers evaluated the nursing care during their hospitalisation differently in comparison with public patients. The findings indicated that nurses perceived only moderate levels of satisfaction when undergoing experiences of hospitalisation.

Relevance to clinical practice

The findings from this study may help nurses to become more alert for meeting the patients’ needs as desired under the best practice.
“There's no acknowledgement of what this does to people”: A qualitative exploration of mental health among parents of children with critical congenital heart defects
Authors: Woolf‐King Sarah E , Arnold Emily , Weiss Sandra , Teitel David
Published: January 2018

Aims and objectives

The purpose of this study was to explore the psychological impact of parenting a child with a critical congenital heart defect and the feasibility and acceptability of integrating psychological services into paediatric cardiology care.

Background

Children with critical congenital heart defect are at an increased risk for long‐term behavioural, social and emotional difficulties. Data suggest that this risk is partially attributable to parental mental health, which is a stronger predictor of long‐term behavioural problems in congenital heart defect children than disease‐specific and surgical factors. Parental stress and mental health are thus important intervention targets, especially among high‐risk families.

Design

This article presents data from a qualitative study with 25 congenital heart defect parents (n = 15) and providers (n = 10).

Methods

Using thematic analysis, semi‐structured in‐depth interviews were transcribed and coded by the first and second author to identify major themes and subthemes.

Results

Results of the interviews were organised into four major themes: (i) the psychological impact of parenting a child with critical congenital heart defect, (ii) factors that influence the psychological impact of parenting a child with critical congenital heart defect, (iii) how and when to psychologically support congenital heart defect parents and (iv) feasibility and acceptability of integrating psychological support into congenital heart defect care. Providers and parents endorsed the integration of mental health treatment into routine congenital heart defect care and identified several practical issues related to feasibility (e.g., funding and space) that should be considered prior to implementation.

Conclusions

Parents of children with critical congenital heart defect need access to mental health services, and integrating these services into routine paediatric cardiology care is a novel and practical way for parents to receive the treatment they need.

Relevance to clinical practice

Suggestions for how the field of paediatric cardiology could begin to integrate mental health services into congenital heart defect treatment are provided.
Three gene phylogeny of the Thoreales (Rhodophyta) reveals high species diversity
Authors: Johnston Emily T. , Dixon Kyatt R. , West John A. , Buhari Nurliah , Vis Morgan L.
Published: January 2018

The freshwater red algal order Thoreales has triphasic life history composed of a diminutive diploid “Chantransia” stage, a distinctive macroscopic gametophyte with multi‐axial growth and carposporophytes that develop on the gametophyte thallus. This order is comprised of two genera, Thorea and Nemalionopsis. Thorea has been widely reported with numerous species, whereas Nemalionopsis has been more rarely observed with only a few species described. DNA sequences from three loci (rbcL, cox1, and LSU) were used to examine the phylogenetic affinity of specimens collected from geographically distant locations including North America, South America, Europe, Pacific Islands, Southeast Asia, China, and India. Sixteen species of Thorea and two species of Nemalionopsis were recognized. Morphological observations confirmed the distinctness of the two genera and also provided some characters to distinguish species. However, many of the collections were in “Chantransia” stage rather than gametophyte stage, meaning that key diagnostic morphological characters were unavailable. Three new species are proposed primarily based on the DNA sequence data generated in this study, Thorea kokosinga‐pueschelii, T. mauitukitukii, and T. quisqueyana. In addition to these newly described species, one DNA sequence from GenBank was not closely associated with other Thorea clades and may represent further diversity in the genus. Two species in Nemalionopsis are recognized, N. shawii and N. parkeri nom. et stat. nov. Thorea harbors more diversity than had been recognized by morphological data alone. Distribution data indicated that Nemalionopsis is common in the Pacific region, whereas Thorea is more globally distributed. Most species of Thorea have a regional distribution, but Thorea hispida appears to be cosmopolitan.
The role of land bridges, ancient environments, and migrations in the assembly of the North American flora
Authors: Graham Alan
Published: January 2018

Continental‐scale assembly of floras results from past and present in situ diversification in association with several external processes. Among these processes are the making and breaking of connections among landmasses. Connections among landmasses are constantly in flux as are the climates and landscapes along the connection corridors, so that these corridors, or land bridges, may either facilitate or restrict migration at a given time. Across land bridges, changing landscape‐level and organismal factors include the dispersal potential and vectors of propagules, competition, predation, and distributions altered by pathogens. Assembly of a flora is, therefore, the outcome of complex, interacting, temporally‐varying factors that render simplistic explanations unlikely. In the case of North America, the continent experienced ephemeral connections with adjacent regions via five land bridges over the last 100 Ma at different times and under different climates and specific landscape morphologies, including edaphic characteristics. Here, I emphasize the earliest of these connections, Beringia, which probably comprised an initially‐incomplete land bridge during the Cretaceous and Paleocene resulting from compression, fragmentation, and rotation of Asian‐North American sub‐blocks as North America began moving westward from the northern portion of the Mid‐Atlantic Ridge. During the same time, additional land was added to Beringia with accretion of terranes and the subduction of the northern edge of the Pacific Plate beneath the North American‐Asian Plates in the Eocene to form the Aleutian Islands. Other connections between North America and adjacent landmasses were the North Atlantic, the Antilles, Central America, and the Magellan land bridge.
The immunosuppressive effects of CD4+CD25+ regulatory T cells on dendritic cells in patients with chronic hepatitis B
Authors: Zhou P. , Xu J. , Dai M. , Shi Y. , Wu G. , Fang Y. , Yan X.
Published: January 2018

The characteristics and functions of CD4+CD25+ regulatory T cells (Tregs) have been well defined in murine and human systems. However, the interaction or crosstalk between CD4+CD25+ Tregs and dendritic cells (DCs) remains controversial. In this study, the effects of chronic hepatitis B (CHB) CD4+CD25+ Tregs on the maturation and function of monocyte‐derived DCs were examined. The results showed that CD4+CD25+ render the DCs inefficient as antigen‐presenting cells (APCs) despite prestimulation with CD40 ligand. This effect was marginally reverted by applying neutralizing antibodies (Abs) to IL‐10 and TGF‐β. There were an increased IL‐10 and TGF‐β secretion and reduced expression of costimulatory molecules in DC. Thus, in addition to a direct suppressor effect on CD4+T cells, CD4+CD25+ may modulate the immune response through DCs in CHB patients.
Characterizing the temporal evolution of the hepatitis C virus epidemic in Pakistan
Authors: Ayoub H. H. , Al Kanaani Z. , Abu‐Raddad L. J.
Published: January 2018

Pakistan has the second largest number of HCV infections in the world. We assessed past, present and future levels and trends of the HCV epidemic in Pakistan. An age‐structured mathematical model was developed and analysed to describe transmission dynamics over 1980‐2050. The model was fitted to a nationally representative survey and a comprehensive database of systematically gathered HCV Ab prevalence data. HCV Ab and chronic infection prevalences peaked at 5.3% and 3.9% in 2000 but were projected to decline to 4.3% and 3.2% by 2017, 3.4% and 2.6% by 2030 and 2.6% and 1.9% by 2050, respectively. The number of chronically infected individuals was estimated at 6 663 906 in 2017 and was projected to peak at 6 665 900 in 2018 and decline to 6 372 100 in 2030 and 5 131 500 in 2050. Annual number of new infections peaked at 346 740 in 1992 but was projected to decline to 198 320 in 2017, 151 090 in 2030 and 98 120 in 2050. Incidence rate per 100 000 person‐year peaked at 343 in 1988 but was projected to decline to 99 in 2017, 62 in 2030 and 36 in 2050. Prevalence and incidence varied by age, and the majority of new infections occurred in the 20‐39 age group. Prevalence and incidence of HCV in Pakistan have been slowly declining for two decades—Pakistan is enduring a large epidemic that will persist for decades if not controlled. Nearly, 10% of global infections are in Pakistan, with about 200 000 additional infections every year. Rapid and mass scale‐up of prevention and treatment programmes are critically needed.
Metabolic alterations in a rat model of hepatic ischaemia reperfusion injury: In vivo hyperpolarized 13C MRS and metabolic imaging
Authors: Moon Chung‐Man , Shin Sang‐Soo , Lim Nam‐Yeol , Kim Seul‐Kee , Kang Yang‐Joon , Kim Hyoung‐Ook , Lee Seung‐Jin , Beak Byung‐Hyun , Kim Yun‐Heon , Jeong Gwang‐Woo
Published: January 2018

Background & Aims

Despite a number of studies addressing the pathophysiology of hepatic IRI, a gold standard test for early diagnosis and evaluation of IRI remains elusive. This study investigated the metabolic alterations in a rat model of hepatic IRI using the in vivo hyperpolarized ¹³C MRS and metabolic imaging.

Methods

Hyperpolarized 13C MRS with IVIM‐DWI was performed on the liver of 7 sham‐operated control rats and 7 rats before and after hepatic IRI.

Results

The hepatic IRI‐induced rats showed significantly higher ratios of [1‐13C] alanine/pyruvate, [1‐13C] alanine/tC, [1‐13C] lactate/pyruvate and [1‐13C] lactate/tC compared with both sham‐operated controls and rats before IRI, whereas [1‐13C] pyruvate/tC ratio was decreased in IRI‐induced rats. In IVIM‐DWI study, apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC), f and D values in rats after hepatic IRI were significantly lower than those of rats before IRI and sham‐operated controls. The levels of [1‐13C] alanine and [1‐13C] lactate were negatively correlated with ADC, f and D values, whereas the level of [1‐13C] pyruvate was positively correlated with these values.

Conclusions

The levels of [1‐13C] alanine, [1‐13C] lactate and [1‐13C] pyruvate in conjunction with IVIM‐DWI will be helpful to evaluate the hepatic IRI as well as these findings can be useful in understanding the biochemical mechanism associated with hepatic damage.
Noble gases in angrites Northwest Africa 1296, 2999/4931, 4590, and 4801: Evolution history inferred from noble gas signatures
Authors: Nakashima Daisuke , Nagao Keisuke , Irving Anthony J.
Published: January 2018

Noble gases in the five angrites Northwest Africa (NWA) 1296, 2999, 4590, 4801, and 4931 were analyzed with total melting and stepwise heating methods. The noble gases consist of in situ components: spallogenic, radiogenic, nucleogenic, and fission. Cosmic‐ray exposure ages of the angrites (including literature data) spread uniformly from <0.2 to 56 Ma, and coarse‐grained angrites have longer exposure ages than fine‐grained angrites. It is implied that the parent bodies from which the two subgroups of angrites were ejected are different and have distinct orbital elements. The 244Pu‐136Xe relative ages of the angrites obtained by using 244Pu/150Nd ratios are as old as that of Angra dos Reis, reflecting their early formation. On the other hand, another method to obtain 244Pu‐136Xe relative ages, using fission 136Xe, spallogenic 126Xe, and Ba/REE ratios, yields systematically older 244Pu‐136Xe ages than those obtained by using 244Pu/150Nd ratios, which is explained by apparently high Ba/REE ratios caused by Ba contamination during terrestrial weathering. The 244Pu/238U ratio at 4.56 Ga of angrites is estimated as 0.0061 ± 0.0028, which is consistent with those for chondrules, chondrites, achondrites, and a terrestrial zircon. It is suggested that initial 244Pu/238U ratio has been spatially homogeneous at least in the inner part of the early solar system.
The prevalence and distribution of sheep scab in Wales: a farmer questionnaire survey
Authors: CHIVERS C.‐A. , ROSE VINEER H. , WALL R.
Published: January 2018

Outbreaks of ovine psoroptic mange in the U.K. have increased 100‐fold since its deregulation in 1992, with the highest prevalence in Wales, a region of high sheep density. A cross‐sectional, retrospective, questionnaire‐based survey of 7500 members of the association of Welsh lamb and beef farmers [Welsh Lamb and Beef Producers Ltd (WLBP)] was used to investigate the prevalence and distribution of sheep scab in this region in 2015. The survey was completed by 14.0% (n = 972) of potential respondents. Scab outbreaks were reported on 15.8% (n = 154) of farms in 2015. However, 29.0% (n = 282) of farms reported at least one scab outbreak and 2.4% (n = 23) of farms had experienced between six and 10 outbreaks in the previous 10 years. Most outbreaks occurred during September–January (83.0%, n = 150), and were clustered around Brecon (mid‐Wales) and Bangor (North Wales). Farmers who used common grazing were significantly more likely to report scab outbreaks in the previous 10 years than farmers who did not. No quarantine procedures for sheep bought in were used by 29.0% (n = 262) of farmers. Future research should be directed towards the development of localized management programmes, with a particular focus on areas of common grazing.
Temptation, reflections on Matthew 6.13
Authors: Charlton William
Published: January 2018

I distinguish temptation to do what we think we shouldn't, temptation not to do what we think we should, and the difficulties we experience in customary religious practices like prayer. I ask whether temptation requires a tempter, also whether the phenomena we call ‘weakness of will’ can be explained without postulating a non‐cognitive faculty of will. I look at Plato's claim that training the emotions is the main function of education. Finally I consider how obstacles to prayer can be understood consistently with seeing a continuous development from the natural to the supernatural.
Psychiatric sequelae of corticosteroid use in hematology in Australia: A qualitative study
Authors: Clifton Dianne , Ross Margaret , O'Callaghan Clare
Published: January 2018

Despite widespread steroid usage for treating hematological conditions, minimal attention focuses on associated psychiatric side‐effects. In the present study, we examined hematology patients’ experiences of high‐dose steroid treatment. This was undertaken by the use of a qualitative, descriptive design, which included convenience sampling and the inductive, cyclic, and constant comparative thematic analysis of interview transcripts. Eighteen patients participated, who were diagnosed with lymphoma, myeloma, leukemia, or idiopathic thrombocytopenia purpura. Four themes emerged: side‐effects, misattribution of cause, self‐management, and fragmented information. The study results revealed that hematology patients administered steroids can experience negligible to extensive erratic side‐effects, with severe adverse repercussions. Psychological reactions to steroids are often misattributed. Patients mostly self‐manage adverse effects experienced and receive only fragmented preparatory information, often not understanding steroid side‐effects. Nurses could provide helpful “in the moment” education for inpatients who misunderstood steroid‐related adverse effects, such as aggressive urges. Adverse repercussions for family were occasionally evident. Education, support, and ongoing care for patients experiencing adverse steroid side‐effects are inadequate. Health professionals need to develop patient‐ and family‐centered educational resources for potential, unpredictable, and usually adverse steroid side‐effects.