bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Defining the role of NK cells during dengue virus infection
Authors: Mathew Anuja
Published: March 2018

In recent years, our understanding of the complex number of signals that need to be integrated between a diverse number of receptors present on natural killer (NK) cells and ligands present on target cells has improved. Here, we review the progress made in identifying interactions between dengue viral peptides presented on HLA Class 1 molecules with inhibitory and activating killer‐like immunoglobulin receptors on NK cells, direct interactions of viral proteins with NK cell receptors, the involvement of dengue virus‐specific antibodies in mediating antibody‐dependent cell‐mediated cytotoxicity and the role of soluble factors in modulating NK cell responses. We discuss findings of NK cell activation early after natural dengue infection, and point to the role that NK cells may play in regulating both innate and adaptive immune responses, in the context of our new appreciation of interactions of dengue virus with specific NK cell receptors. With a number of flavivirus vaccine candidates in clinical trials, how NK cells respond to attenuated dengue virus and subunit protein vaccine candidates and shape adaptive immunity will need to be considered.
Impact of postgraduate education on advanced practice nurse activity – a national survey
Authors: Wilkinson J. , Carryer J. , Budge C.
Published: March 2018

Background

There is a wealth of international evidence concerning the contribution post‐registration master's level education makes to advancing the discipline of nursing. There are approximately 277 nurse practitioners registered in NZ, but they account for only a small portion of nurses who have undertaken master's level education. The additional contribution these nurses make to the work environment through advanced practice activities has not, hitherto, been documented.

Objectives

To report the extent of advanced practice nurse activity associated with various levels of nursing education in a sample of nurses working in clinical practice in New Zealand.

Method

A replication of recent Australian research was done via a national cross‐sectional survey of 3255 registered nurses and nurse practitioners in New Zealand using an online questionnaire to collect responses to the amended Advanced Practice Delineation survey tool. In addition, demographic data were collected including position titles and levels of postgraduate education.

Results

A positive association was found between postgraduate education at any level and more time spent in advanced practice activities. Independent of level of postgraduate education, the role a nurse holds also effects the extent of involvement in advanced practice activities.

Conclusions

There is an additional contribution made to the work environment by nurses with master's level education which occurs even when they are not employed in an advanced practice role.

Implications for nursing policy

These findings are of significance to workforce policy and planning across the globe as countries work to sustain health services by increasing nursing capacity effectively within available resources.
Shaping nursing profession regulation through history – a systematic review
Authors: Stievano A. , Caruso R. , Pittella F. , Shaffer F.A. , Rocco G. , Fairman J.
Published: March 2018

Aim

The aim of this systematic review was to provide a critical synthesis of the factors that historically shaped the advancements of nursing regulators worldwide.

Background

An in‐depth examination of the different factors that moulded regulatory changes over time is pivotal to comprehend current issues in nursing.

Introduction

In the light of global health scenarios, the researchers explored the factors that historically influenced the socio‐contextual circumstances upon which governments made regulatory changes.

Methods

A systematic search was performed on the following databases: PubMed, CINAHL, Scopus, OpenGrey and ScienceDirect. The review included papers from January 2000 to October 2016 published in English. The authors used the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) and an inductive thematic approach for synthesis.

Results

Two main themes were identified: factors underpinning current challenges and historical and contextual triggers of regulation. The first theme was composed of three aspects: education, migration and internationalization, and policy and regulation; the second theme consisted of four attributes: demographics, economics, history of registration and wars, and historical changes in nursing practice.

Discussion

Factors that shaped nursing regulation were linked to changing demographics and economics, education, history of nursing registration, shifting patterns of migration and internationalization, nursing practice, policy and regulation and significant societal turns often prompted by wars.

Conclusion

A deeper understanding of the developments of the nursing regulatory institutions provides the foundation for portable standards that can be applied across an array of jurisdictions to guarantee a better public safety.

Implication for nursing and health policy

Understanding factors that socially, legislatively and politically have influenced the development of regulatory bodies over time helps to mould local, national and international policies that have a stronger impact on health worldwide. To achieve this, there must be effective cooperation among systems of nursing regulations globally.
Distance learning for maternal and child health nurses and midwives in Mongolia: a qualitative evaluation
Authors: Willott C. , Sakashita R. , Gendenjamts E. , Yoshino Y.
Published: March 2018

Background

Continuing education is vital for the development of the competencies of nurses and midwives. We analysed the effectiveness of a distance education programme for maternal and child health nurses and midwives in Mongolia, assessing its strengths and limitations and ways in which it could be improved. The aim of this research is to provide an analysis of the successes and failures of the programme, in order to improve future versions of this and similar programmes in Mongolia and elsewhere.

Methods

We carried out a qualitative descriptive study in Mongolia in August 2015. This consisted of three semi‐structured interviews and two focus groups in the Second National Hospital, Ulaanbaatar, and three semi‐structured interviews and one focus group in Dornogovi Provincial Maternal Hospital, Sainshand, Dornogovi Province. In total, there were 22 participants in our research. Data from the interviews and focus groups were thematically coded and analysed using NVivo version 10.

Findings

The distance education programme is well received by participants. They suggest that it has improved their clinical practice and education in a number of areas, and are anxious for the programme to continue. A number of alterations would be necessary to improve both the quality of the programme and the ability of participants to foster change on the basis of what they have learnt. This provides challenges for both the programme organizers and the providers of maternal and child health services in Mongolia.

Implications for nursing and/or health policy

The success of the distance education programme suggests that collaborations of this type are a cost‐effective method of disseminating best practice in policy and practice to improve the quality of care provided to mothers and children in low‐resource settings.

Conclusions

A distance education programme is vital to link maternal care providers in Mongolia to new trends in care. Mongolia's relative isolation means that this programme is particularly valuable there. However, the programme could work equally well in other developing country settings.
Factor analysis and Mokken scaling of the Organizational Commitment Questionnaire in nurses
Authors: Al‐Yami M. , Galdas P. , Watson R.
Published: March 2018

Aims

To generate an Arabic version of the Organizational Commitment Questionnaire that would be easily understood by Arabic speakers and would be sensitive to Arabic culture.

Background

The nursing workforce in Saudi Arabia is undergoing a process of Saudization but there is a need to understand the factors that will help to retain this workforce.

Introduction

No organizational commitment tools exist in Arabic that are specifically designed for health organizations. An Arabic version of the organizational commitment tool could aid Arabic speaking employers to understand their employees’ perceptions of their organizations.

Methods

Translation and back‐translation followed by factor analysis (principal components analysis and confirmatory factor analysis) to test the factorial validity and item response theory (Mokken scaling).

Results

A two‐factor structure was obtained for the Organizational Commitment Questionnaire comprising Factor 1: Value commitment; and Factor 2: Commitment to stay with acceptable reliability measured by internal consistency. A Mokken scale was obtained including items from both factors showing a hierarchy of items running from commitment to the organization and commitment to self.

Discussion

This study shows that the Arabic version of the OCQ retained the established two‐factor structure of the original English‐language version. Although the two factors – ‘value commitment’ and ‘commitment to stay’ – repudiate the original developers’ single factor claim.

Conclusion

A useful insight into the structure of the Organizational Commitment Questionnaire has been obtained with the novel addition of a hierarchical scale.

Implications for nursing policy

The Organizational Commitment Questionnaire is now ready to be used with nurses in the Arab speaking world and could be used a tool to measure the contemporary commitment of nursing employees and in future interventions aimed at increasing commitment and retention of valuable nursing staff.
Adaptability and phenotypic stability of Lolium perenne L. cultivars of diverse origin grown at the margin of the species distribution
Authors: Helgadóttir Á. , Aavola R. , Isolahti M. , Marum P. , Persson C. , Aleliūnas A. , Brazauskas G. , Krisjánsdóttir T. A. , Asp T. , Rognli O. A.
Published: March 2018

In northern countries, Lolium perenne L. generally survives poorly when grown inland and north of 60°N because of extensive winter damage. With the projected future climate change, it could become a promising option for improving production efficiency of the agricultural sector in these regions. Here, we compare the biomass production potential of cultivars of diverse origin across five locations stretching from Estonia to Iceland over a period of three harvest years, and their freezing tolerance under artificial conditions. The aim was to relate the observed pattern of adaptation to the geographic origin of the cultivars and their response to prevailing agroclimatic conditions. Significant interactions were observed between cultivars and test environments (locations × years), and significant interactions between cultivars and years were detected at four of the five locations. Models of joint regression, additive main effects and multiplicative interaction (AMMI) and factorial regression using several agroclimatic indices showed that cultivars developed in northern countries showed greater yield potential across the test environments and were, thus, generally better adapted than cultivars from Central Europe. Diploid cultivars were more frost tolerant than tetraploid cultivars giving them an advantage in locations which were characterized by low temperatures during the hardening period in autumn and mild and rainy winters, such as at the Icelandic location. Only a few cultivars showed general adaptability to the environmental conditions at the test sites, the most stable cultivar being an admixture of diploids and tetraploids. In future breeding, the best strategy would be to hybridize cultivars developed in northern countries with more exotic materials that combine high yield potential, adequate winter survival and superior disease resistance under northern conditions.
Predictive value of unipolar and bipolar electrograms in idiopathic outflow tract ventricular arrhythmia mapping and ablation
Authors: Niu Guodong , Feng Tianjie , Jiang Chunlan , Suo Ni , Lin Jinxuan , Qu Fujian , McSpadden Luke C. , Yao Yan , Zhang Shu
Published: March 2018

Introduction

Radiofrequency catheter ablation is an effective therapy for focal idiopathic outflow tract ventricular arrhythmia (OTVA). However, visual inspection of the unipolar electrogram (EGM) QS morphology is subjective with a poor specificity for predicting successful ablation sites. This study aims to evaluate the predictive value of unipolar and bipolar EGMs in OTVA mapping and ablation.

Methods and results

Twenty‐two patients scheduled for idiopathic OTVA ablation were prospectively enrolled. During the procedure, unipolar and bipolar EGMs were recorded simultaneously and visually inspected by the operator to identify their values for predicting arrhythmogenic sites. Quantitative features of the unipolar EGM including the ratio of amplitude of the first positive peak versus the nadir (R‐ratio), the maximum descending slope (MaxSlope), and the time interval between the initial deflection point to the MaxSlope (D‐Max) were calculated for each target site in offline analysis. EGMs from 100 sites were collected in 20 patients and analyzed. The bipolar reverse polarity characteristic was not as practical for identifying successful ablation site as the unipolar QS characteristic. Successful ablation sites demonstrated smaller R‐ratio and shorter D‐Max than unsuccessful sites, but no significant difference in MaxSlope. A unipolar EGM‐derived quantitative criterion provided significantly better specificity (0.70) than visual inspection (0.37) without compromising on the sensitivity (0.83 vs. 0.89).

Conclusion

The bipolar reverse polarity characteristic was not a practical method for identifying target in idiopathic OTVA ablation. The unipolar EGM‐derived quantitative criteria have better predictive performance than visual inspection of the QS characteristic and are likely to reduce unnecessary ablation sites.
Adult brain activation during visual learning and memory tasks. An experimental approach to translational neuroscience
Authors: Popova Ferihan , Kovacheva Antoaneta , Garov Petar , Sivkov Stefan , Kandilarova Sevdalina , Sirakov Nickolay , Stoeva Magdalena , Velkova Kichka G.
Published: March 2018

Rationale, aims, and objectives

Human brain connectome is a new and rapidly developing field in neuroscience. The pattern of structural and functional connectivity in the brain is not fixed but is continuously changing in response to experiences. Exploring these phenomena opens a powerful arsenal of analyses and computational approaches that could provide important new insights into clinical and cognitive neuroscience.

The aim of the present study was to investigate the activations of adult brain cortical areas during a memory task performance by using functional MRI with a specific focus on gender differences.

Methods

Twenty‐nine right‐handed subjects (15 men and 14 women) were scanned. The memory paradigm consisted of 4 consecutive sets of “on” and “off” blocks with a total duration of 4 minutes. The subjects were first presented with 4 pictures (fixation F‐part) of the same theme—landscapes, portraits, anatomical images of internal organs, and geometric figures denoted by specific mismatching nouns (seasons, personal names, internal organs, and figures), followed by 3 of the presented pictures and questions for memory evaluation (recall R‐part). For the active conditions, the participants were instructed to read the statements carefully and answer with a button press.

Results

We found reliable occipital and temporal signal responses across the block design contrasts with statistical significant differences within the groups in both genders. Statistical significance in brain cortical activation was not found between men and women.

Conclusion

The results highlighted several detailed distinctions between the genders and potential future directions in brain activation studies as part of the multidisciplinary approach in translational neuroscience.
Postpartum Depressive Symptoms: Gestational Weight Gain as a Risk Factor for Adolescents Who Are Overweight or Obese
Authors: Cunningham Shayna D. , Mokshagundam Shilpa , Chai Hannah , Lewis Jessica B. , Levine Jessica , Tobin Jonathan N. , Ickovics Jeannette R.
Published: March 2018

Introduction

Obesity is a risk factor for adverse physical health outcomes during pregnancy. Much less is known about the association between obesity and maternal mental health. Evidence suggests that prenatal depression is associated with excessive weight gain during pregnancy and that this relationship may vary according to pregravid body mass index (BMI). Young women may be particularly vulnerable to postpartum depression. The objective of this study is to examine the association between prepregnancy BMI, gestational weight gain, and postpartum depressive symptoms among adolescents.

Methods

Participants were 505 pregnant adolescents aged 14 to 21 years followed during pregnancy and 6 months postpartum. Data were collected via interviews and medical record abstraction. Multilevel linear mixed models were used to test the association between excessive gestational weight gain as defined by National Academy of Medicine Guidelines and postpartum depressive symptoms measured via the validated Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression (CES‐D) scale. Analyses controlled for sociodemographic factors (maternal age, race, ethnicity, relationship status), health behaviors (nutrition, physical activity), prenatal depressive symptoms, and postpartum weight retention.

Results

Prepregnancy BMI was classified as follows: 11% underweight, 53% healthy weight, 19% overweight, and 18% obese. One‐half (50%) of participants exceeded recommended guidelines for gestational weight gain. Adolescents with excessive gestational weight gain who entered pregnancy overweight or obese had significantly higher postpartum depressive symptoms (β, 2.41; SE, 1.06 vs β, 2.58; SE, 1.08, respectively; both P < .05) compared with those with healthy prepregnancy BMI and appropriate gestational weight gain. Adolescents who gained gestational weight within clinically recommended guidelines were not at risk for increased depressive symptoms.

Discussion

Adolescents who enter pregnancy overweight or obese and experience excessive weight gain may be at increased risk for postpartum depressive symptoms. Health care providers should offer preventive interventions during pregnancy and the interconceptional period to support healthy weight gain and safeguard women's mental health.
The Roles of Social Support and Health Literacy in Self‐Management Among Patients With Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Chen Yu‐Chi , Chang Li‐Chun , Liu Chieh‐Yu , Ho Ya‐Fang , Weng Shuo‐Chun , Tsai Tzu‐I
Published: March 2018

Aims

To investigate the relationships among social support, health literacy, and self‐management, and the factors influencing self‐management of chronic kidney disease (CKD).

Design

Cross‐sectional study.

Methods

A random sample of 410 patients was recruited from nephrology clinics. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and chart reviews from January 2013 to February 2014. Hierarchical regression analysis was used to determine the predictive factors of self‐management behaviors and ∆R2 to determine each variable's explanatory power.

Findings

Health literacy and social support were positively correlated with self‐management behaviors. Furthermore, social support, health literacy, and marital status were significant predictors of self‐management behaviors. Social support had a relatively greater explanatory power for self‐management behaviors than did health literacy. Particularly, healthcare provider support had the greatest influence on patients’ self‐management behaviors.

Conclusions

Health literacy and social support play independent positive roles in self‐management behaviors of patients with CKD, with social support having a particularly dominant role. Further research using a systems approach to improving self‐management behaviors is necessary to clarify the role of social support.

Clinical Relevance

Health literacy and social support are independently and positively related to self‐management. Social support, which is a system‐level factor, is a relatively stronger and crucial predictor than is health literacy. Nurses have to refine self‐management programs to focus on families and adopt a systems approach to help CKD patients improve their self‐management behaviors.
Efficacy and possible mechanisms of Botulinum Toxin type A on hypertrophic scarring
Authors: Hao RongTao , Li ZongChao , Chen Xing , Ye Wei
Published: March 2018

Background

Clinical observations indicate that Botulinum toxin type A (BTXA) can inhibit the growth and improve the eventual appearance of hypertrophic scarring. However, the molecular mechanism remains unclear.

Objective

We used human keloid fibroblasts to investigate the molecular mechanism of BTXA on hypertrophic scarring.

Methods

Different concentrations of BTXA (0.01, 0.1, 1, and 10 U/L) were used to treat keloid fibroblasts. Changes in cellular morphology, viability, proliferation, cell cycle, and apoptosis were observed by immunofluorescence, MTT assay, and flow cytometry. In addition, real‐time qPCR and Western blotting were used to explore the potential molecular mechanisms.

Results

Keloid fibroblast viability decreased with increasing BTXA dose. After BTXA treatment, the volume of keloid fibroblasts cells increased, but the nucleus of cells shrunk. Long thin dendrites were formed as the concentration of BTXA increased. Furthermore, the proliferation and S phase of keloid fibroblasts were inhibited by BTXA. Matrix metalloproteinase (, MMP)‐1 and ‐2 RNA and protein showed high expression, but TGF‐β1 and MMP‐9 showed low expression than the control.

Conclusion

Botulinum toxin type A may promote the healing of scars by inhibiting the proliferation of keloid fibroblasts and regulating the expression of TGF‐β1, which could affect the expression of MMP‐1 and MMP‐2. This study provides theoretical support for the clinical application of BTXA to control hypertrophic scarring.
Real‐life experiences of people with transient ischaemic attack or minor stroke: A qualitative literature review
Authors: Crowfoot Gary , van der Riet Pamela , Maguire Jane
Published: March 2018

Aims and objectives

To explore and present findings of qualitative studies exploring real‐life experiences of people with transient ischaemic attack or minor stroke.

Background

Transient ischaemic attack and minor stroke significantly increase the risk of stroke. Primarily, literature has examined healthcare pathways, patient outcomes and models of care through quantitative methodologies. Several studies have explored patient experiences using qualitative approaches. However, these findings have not been systematically collated or critically appraised to better understand the experiences of this population.

Design

A literature review of the qualitative evidence.

Method

A systematic literature search was conducted in CINAHL, MEDLINE, EMBASE and PsycINFO between January 2005–October 2016 to identify qualitative studies that explored real‐life experiences of people with transient ischaemic attack or minor stroke. The relevant EQUATOR guidelines were followed. Findings of relevant studies were critically appraised and collated using a thematic approach.

Results

The search retrieved 709 articles. Twelve articles were included after critical review. Three themes emerged including recognition, awareness and action; the vulnerable self; and social and personal life change. Participants experienced ongoing vulnerability and change in their personal and social lives. Specifically, people believed that their condition did not reflect their physical appearance and led to their needs being unmet by health professionals.

Conclusions

This is the first review of the literature to collate the thoughts, perspectives and experiences of people living with transient ischaemic attack or minor stroke. They reveal a complex, life‐altering experience characterised by vulnerability, instability and change. Education that assists clinicians to connect with these experiences may alleviate the patient‐reported disconnection with health professionals.

Relevance to clinical practice

Physical and psychosocial dysfunctions were consistently reported to be overlooked or undetected by clinicians. Educating clinicians might enable them to better understand patient experiences, improve therapeutic interactions and meet the needs of this population.
The nomogram of prenasal thickness and nasal bone ratio and its relationship with nuchal fold in second‐trimester fetal ultrasound
Authors: Özdemir Halis , Kalaycı Hakan , Yetkinel Selçuk , Çok Tayfun , Çoban Gonca , Tarım Ebru
Published: March 2018

Aim

We aimed to define the normal values of second‐trimester fetal prenasal thickness and nasal bone length ratio (PNT/NBL) in a low‐risk Turkish population and investigate the relationship between the increased PNT and nuchal fold (NF).

Method

We retrospectively reviewed the data of 650 cases considered to be euploid fetuses who presented to our clinic between December 2013 and September 2014 for a second‐line ultrasound between 17 and 24 weeks. Their PNT, NBL, NF and biometric (BPD, HC, AC, FL and HL) measurements were recorded.

Results

A total of 650 cases considered to be euploid fetuses were included in this study. There was a linear increase in PNT with the gestational weeks (mean value 3.01 at weeks 17–18 and 3.76 at weeks 23–24). The PNT/NB ratio showed a slight decrease in advancing gestational weeks (mean value 0.57 at weeks 17–18 and 0.50 at weeks 23–24). The 95th percentile value of the PNT/NB ratio, independent of the gestational week, was 0.76. The values of both PNT and NF increased with advancing gestational weeks, but there was no statistically linear increase between PNT and NF (R2: 0.115).

Conclusion

In this study, we provided a nomogram of the PNT/NB ratio. Both NF thickness and PNT should be dealt with as two separate markers. Although the formation mechanisms are thought to be the same in both of them, a strong linear relationship does not exist between them.
The urgency to embrace Big Data opportunities in medicine
Authors: Ludvigsson J. F. , Adami H. O.
Published: March 2018

Click here to view the Review Symposium by V. Mayer‐Schönberger & E. Ingelsson
Toward a New Understanding of Ethnic‐Racial Settings for Ethnic‐Racial Identity Development
Authors: Syed Moin , Juang Linda P. , Svensson Ylva
Published: March 2018

The purpose of this conceptual article is to advance theory and research on one critical aspect of the context of ethnic–racial identity (ERI) development: ethnic–racial settings, or the objective and subjective nature of group representation within an individual's context. We present a new conceptual framework that consists of four dimensions: (1)perspective(that settings can be understood in both objective and subjective terms); (2)differentiation(how groups are defined in a setting); (3)heterogeneity(the range of groups in a setting); and (4)proximity(the distance between the individual and the setting). Clarifying this complexity is crucial for advancing a more coherent understanding of how ethnic–racial settings are related toERIdevelopment.
Friendless Adolescents: Do Perceptions of Social Threat Account for Their Internalizing Difficulties and Continued Friendlessness?
Authors: Lessard Leah M. , Juvonen Jaana
Published: March 2018

Adolescents who lack friends at school are at risk of internalizing difficulties. This study examined a social‐cognitive mechanism underlying friendlessness and internalizing difficulties (i.e., depressive symptoms, social anxiety, low self‐esteem). We tested whether perceived social threat (i.e., peer victimization, sense of unsafety, and peer misconduct) mediates the association between friendlessness and increased internalizing difficulties across middle school. Latent variable structural equation modeling was used to test the model among an ethnically diverse sample of 5,991 (52% female) adolescents. The results demonstrate that friendless sixth‐grade students perceived their school environment as more threatening by seventh grade, which in turn, increased internalizing difficulties from sixth to eighth grade. Perceptions of threat also predicted friendlessness at the end of middle school.
Facial hyperalgesia due to direct action of endothelin-1 in the trigeminal ganglion of mice
Authors: Gomes Lenyta Oliveira , Chichorro Juliana Geremias , Araya Erika Ivanna , de Oliveira Jade , Rae Giles Alexander
Published: March 2018

Objective

This study assessed the ability of endothelin-1 (ET-1) to evoke heat hyperalgesia when injected directly into the trigeminal ganglia (TG) of mice and determined the receptors implicated in this effect. The effects of TG ETA and ETB receptor blockade on alleviation of heat hyperalgesia in a model of trigeminal neuropathic pain induced by infraorbital nerve constriction (CION) were also examined.

Methods

Naive mice received an intraganglionar (i.g.) injection of ET-1 (0.3–3 pmol) or the selective ETBR agonist sarafotoxin S6c (3–30 pmol), and response latencies to ipsilateral heat stimulation were assessed before the treatment and at 1-h intervals up to 5 h after the treatment. Heat hyperalgesia induced by i.g. ET-1 or CION was assessed after i.g. injections of ETAR and ETBR antagonists (BQ-123 and BQ-788, respectively, each at 0.5 nmol).

Key findings

Intraganglionar ET-1 or sarafotoxin S6c injection induced heat hyperalgesia lasting 4 and 2 h, respectively. Heat hyperalgesia induced by ET-1 was attenuated by i.g. BQ-123 or BQ-788. On day 5 after CION, i.g. BQ-788 injection produced a more robust antihyperalgesic effect compared with BQ-123.

Conclusions

ET-1 injection into the TG promotes ETAR/ETBR-mediated facial heat hyperalgesia, and both receptors are clearly implicated in CION-induced hyperalgesia in the murine TG system.
Daily melatonin protects the endothelial lineage and functional integrity against the aging process, oxidative stress, and toxic environment and restores blood flow in critical limb ischemia area in mice
Authors: Lee Fan‐Yen , Sun Cheuk‐Kwan , Sung Pei‐Hsun , Chen Kuan‐Hung , Chua Sarah , Sheu Jiunn‐Jye , Chung Sheng‐Ying , Chai Han‐Tan , Chen Yi‐Ling , Huang Tien‐Hung , Huang Chi‐Ruei , Li Yi‐Chen , Luo Chi‐Wen , Yip Hon‐Kan
Published: March 2018

We tested the hypothesis that daily melatonin treatment protects endothelial lineage and functional integrity against the aging process, oxidative stress/endothelial denudation (ED), and toxic environment and restored blood flow in murine critical limb ischemia (CLI). In vitro study using HUVECs, in vivo models (ie, CLI through left femoral artery ligation and ED through carotid artery wire injury), and model of lipopolysaccharide‐induced aortic injury in young (3 months old) and aged (8 months old) mice were used to elucidate effects of melatonin treatment on vascular endothelial integrity. In vitro study showed that menadione‐induced oxidative stress (NOX‐1/NOX‐2), inflammation (TNF‐α/NF‐kB), apoptosis (cleaved caspase‐3/PARP), and mitochondrial damage (cytosolic cytochrome c) in HUVECs were suppressed by melatonin but reversed by SIRT3‐siRNA (all P < .001). In vivo, reduced numbers of circulating endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) (C‐kit/CD31+/Sca‐1/KDR+/CXCR4/CD34+), and angiogenesis (Matrigel assay of bone marrow‐derived EPC and ex vivo aortic ring cultures) in older (compared with younger) mice were significantly reversed through daily melatonin administration (20 mg/kg/d, ip) (all P < .001). Aortic vasorelaxation and nitric oxide release were impaired in older mice and reversed in age‐match mice receiving melatonin (all P < .01). ED‐induced intimal/medial hyperplasia, reduced blood flow to ischemic limb, and angiogenesis (reduced CD31+/vWF+ cells/small vessel number) were improved after daily melatonin treatment (all P < .0001). Lipopolysaccharide‐induced aortic endothelial cell detachment, which was more severe in aged mice, was also alleviated after daily melatonin treatment (P < .0001). Daily melatonin treatment protected both structural and functional integrity of vascular endothelium against aging‐, oxidative stress‐, lipopolysaccharide‐, and ischemia‐induced damage probably through upregulating the SIRT signaling pathway.
Melatonin and cardioprotection against ischaemia/reperfusion injury: What's new? A review
Authors: Lochner Amanda , Marais Erna , Huisamen Barbara
Published: March 2018

Melatonin is a pleiotropic hormone with several functions. It binds to specific receptors and to a number of cytosolic proteins, activating a vast array of signalling pathways. Its potential to protect the heart against ischaemia/reperfusion damage has attracted much attention, particularly in view of its possible clinical applications. This review will focus mainly on the possible signalling pathways involved in melatonin‐induced cardioprotection. In particular, the role of the melatonin receptors and events downstream of receptor activation, for example, the reperfusion injury salvage kinase (RISK), survivor activating factor enhancement (SAFE) and Notch pathways, the sirtuins, nuclear factor E2–related factor 2 (Nrf2) and translocases in the outer membrane (TOM70) will be discussed. Particular attention is given to the role of the mitochondrion in melatonin‐induced cardioprotection. In addition, a brief overview will be given regarding the status quo of the clinical application of melatonin in humans.
Phylogenetics and dispersal patterns of Brassicaceae around the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau
Authors: Qian Chaoju , Shi Yong , Liu Yuan , Yan Xia , Ma Xiao‐Fei
Published: March 2018

Brassicaceae, one of the most diverse and economically valuable plant families, is distributed all over the world. Previous studies have suggested that Brassicaceae originated and diversified in the Old World. In this study, the phylogenetic relationships of 17 tribes of Brassicaceae from the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau (QTP) and adjacent areas were investigated using nuclear ribosomal internal transcribed spacer (nrITS) and chloroplast DNA sequence data (rbcL and petB‐petD) with maximum likelihood, maximum parsimony, and Bayesian methods. As suggested by both the nrITS and chloroplast DNA trees, Cardaria pubescens (C.A.Mey.) Jarm. (Lepidieae) and Draba lanceolata Royle (Arabideae) should be classified in the Eutremeae and Cardamineae, respectively. Based on over 700 newly sequenced and published nrITS sequences of Brassicaceae, an up‐to‐date comprehensive phylogeny of the family was reconstructed using the maximum likelihood method. In the phylogenetic tree, 10 monophyletic tribes were detected. They were used to clarify the lineage diversification and dispersal patterns of the 10 tribes. The results showed that most of the monophyletic tribes may have originated in different regions of the world, and then dispersed into other regions surrounding the QTP. Rapid lineage diversification rate shifts were detected in several tribes, such as Anastaticeae, which experienced a rapid shift event ∼1.38 Mya, corresponding to the rapid uplift of the QTP, indicating that the recent uplift of the QTP could have promoted diversification in Brassicaceae across and adjacent to the QTP.
Originary différance: “A quantum vitalism”
Authors: Kirby Vicki
Published: March 2018

Review of Alexander Wendt, Quantum Mind and Social Science: unifying physical and social ontology (2015).
Patterns of Z chromosome divergence among Heliconius species highlight the importance of historical demography
Authors: Van Belleghem Steven M. , Baquero Margarita , Papa Riccardo , Salazar Camilo , McMillan W. Owen , Counterman Brian A. , Jiggins Chris D. , Martin Simon H.
Published: March 2018

Sex chromosomes are disproportionately involved in reproductive isolation and adaptation. In support of such a “large‐X” effect, genome scans between recently diverged populations and species pairs often identify distinct patterns of divergence on the sex chromosome compared to autosomes. When measures of divergence between populations are higher on the sex chromosome compared to autosomes, such patterns could be interpreted as evidence for faster divergence on the sex chromosome, that is “faster‐X”, barriers to gene flow on the sex chromosome. However, demographic changes can strongly skew divergence estimates and are not always taken into consideration. We used 224 whole‐genome sequences representing 36 populations from two Heliconius butterfly clades (H. erato and H. melpomene) to explore patterns of Z chromosome divergence. We show that increased divergence compared to equilibrium expectations can in many cases be explained by demographic change. Among Heliconius erato populations, for instance, population size increase in the ancestral population can explain increased absolute divergence measures on the Z chromosome compared to the autosomes, as a result of increased ancestral Z chromosome genetic diversity. Nonetheless, we do identify increased divergence on the Z chromosome relative to the autosomes in parapatric or sympatric species comparisons that imply postzygotic reproductive barriers. Using simulations, we show that this is consistent with reduced gene flow on the Z chromosome, perhaps due to greater accumulation of incompatibilities. Our work demonstrates the importance of taking demography into account to interpret patterns of divergence on the Z chromosome, but nonetheless provides evidence to support the Z chromosome as a strong barrier to gene flow in incipient Heliconius butterfly species.
Roles of three FurA paralogs in the regulation of genes pertaining to peroxide defense in Mycobacterium smegmatis mc2155
Authors: Lee Ha‐Na , Ji Chang‐Jun , Lee Hyun‐Hee , Park Jungwook , Seo Young‐Su , Lee Jin‐Won , Oh Jeong‐Il
Published: March 2018

Mycobacterium smegmatis mc2155 has three genes (MSMEG_6383, furA1; MSMEG_3460, furA2; MSMEG_6253, furA3) encoding FurA (ferric‐uptake regulator A) paralogs. Three FurA paralogs in M. smegmatis are functionally redundant and negatively regulate expression of a subset of genes involved in peroxide detoxification such as ahpC, katG1 and katG2, as well as their own genes. The FurA paralogs sense H2O2 via metal‐catalyzed His oxidation (MCHO) in the same way as PerR. The propensity of FurA2 and FurA3 for MCHO is greater than that of FurA1. The three furA genes are transcribed into leaderless mRNAs lacking the Shine‐Dalgarno (SD) sequence. FurA1 and FurA3 have the quaternary structure of homodimers like most Fur homologs, whereas FurA2 occurs as a monomer. The monomeric structure of FurA2 is determined by the C‐terminal region of its dimerization domain. FurA2 monomers appear to cooperatively bind to the FurA‐binding site with an inverted repeat configuration and have a broader binding specificity for the target DNA than dimeric FurA1 and FurA3. Comparative transcriptomic analysis revealed that the FurA paralogs do not regulate genes related to iron homeostasis in M. smegmatis, and that expression of SigF‐regulated genes is significantly decreased in a furA triple mutant relative to the wild‐type strain of M. smegmatis.
Cultural factors influencing Japanese nurses’ assertive communication: Part 2 – hierarchy and power
Authors: Omura Mieko , Stone Teresa E. , Levett‐Jones Tracy
Published: March 2018

Hierarchy and power characterize health‐care relationships around the world, constituting a barrier to assertive communication and a risk to patient safety. This issue is more problematic and complex in countries such as Japan, where deep‐seated cultural values related to hierarchy and power persist. The current paper is the second of two that present the findings from a study exploring Japanese nurses’ views and experiences of how cultural values impact assertive communication for health‐care professionals. We conducted semistructured interviews with 23 registered nurses, following which data were analyzed using directed content analysis. Two overarching themes emerged from the analysis: hierarchy/power and collectivism. In the present study, we focus on cultural values related to hierarchy and power, including differences in professional status, gender imbalance, seniority/generation gap, bullying, and humility/modesty. The findings from our research provide meaningful insights into how Japanese cultural values influence and constrain nurses’ communication and speaking up behaviors, and can be used to inform educational programs designed to teach assertiveness skills.
Development and validation of oral health‐related quality of life measure in oral submucous fibrosis
Authors: Gondivkar SM , Bhowate RR , Gadbail AR , Gaikwad RN , Gondivkar RS , Sarode SC , Sarode GS
Published: March 2018

Objective

The aim of this study was to develop and assess the validity and reliability of disease‐specific oral health‐related quality of life (OHRQoL) instrument for oral submucous fibrosis (OSF).

Materials and Methods

Items for the OHRQoL‐OSF were generated from personal interviews and focus group discussions, the existing questionnaires, reviews of literature and inputs from expert's panel. Item reduction was performed by clinical impact method followed by pretesting of the developed questionnaire. The validity and reliability of the instrument were then examined.

Results

Forty‐five items were generated from qualitative data and item pooling from various sources. After item reduction, 17 items were finalized with four domain‐structure having Eigenvalues greater than 1. OHRQoL‐OSF was shown to be valid in distinguishing patients with varying degrees of OSF severity. For the concurrent validity, the observed impact of OSF based on OHRQoL‐OSF significantly correlated with Oral Health Impact Profile and global self‐ratings of oral health and overall well‐being. OHRQoL‐OSF and all its domains demonstrated good internal consistency reliability with Cronbach's alpha ˃0.7 and excellent test–retest reliability (ICC = 0.96).

Conclusion

The first disease‐specific OHRQoL‐OSF instrument appeared to be highly reliable and valid measure for assessing impact of OSF on life quality.
Randomized pilot study on probiotic effects on recurrent candidiasis in oral lichen planus patients
Authors: Keller MK , Kragelund C
Published: March 2018

Some patients with oral lichen planus (OLP) experience recurrent oral candidiasis(OC). Probiotic bacteria have shown to reduce the oral Candida count in vivo.

Objective

To study whether probiotic intervention reduces recurrent OC in patients with OLP.

Material and Methods

Twenty‐two patients with symptomatic OLP were enrolled in the double‐blinded, randomized, placebo‐controlled intervention study. Lozenges containing Lactobacilli reuteri (DSM 17938 and ATCC PTA 5289) or placebo were dissolved intra‐orally three times daily for 16 weeks, after which patients were followed up for 36 weeks. Mucosal symptoms, VAS pain, OLP severity score, plaque index (PI) and gingival index (GI), Candida count/carriage, and OC and/or need for symptomatic treatment were registered. Statistical significance was set at p < .05.

Results

No difference was observed between the groups during the intervention or follow‐up in terms of recurrent OC (p = .966) or need for symptomatic treatment (p = 1.000). There was no difference in terms of Candida count (p = .96) or carriage over time (p = .511). GI decreased in the probiotic group and increased in the placebo group (p = .046). OLP severity score decreased in both groups during the study period (p = .039). Across the entire study period, the placebo group had higher VAS pain score (p = .037).

Conclusions

Probiotic intervention did not reduce recurrent OC or Candida count/carriage, but the study experienced recruitment problems, which may have influenced results.
An epigenetic breeding system in soybean for increased yield and stability
Authors: Raju Sunil K. Kenchanmane , Shao Mon‐Ray , Sanchez Robersy , Xu Ying‐Zhi , Sandhu Ajay , Graef George , Mackenzie Sally
Published: March 2018

Epigenetic variation has been associated with a wide range of adaptive phenotypes in plants, but there exist few direct means for exploiting this variation. RNAi suppression of the plant‐specific gene, MutS HOMOLOG1 (MSH1), in multiple plant species produces a range of developmental changes accompanied by modulation of defence, phytohormone and abiotic stress response pathways along with methylome repatterning. This msh1‐conditioned developmental reprogramming is retained independent of transgene segregation, giving rise to transgene‐null ‘memory’ effects. An isogenic memory line crossed to wild type produces progeny families displaying increased variation in adaptive traits that respond to selection. This study investigates amenability of the MSH1 system for inducing agronomically valuable epigenetic variation in soybean. We developed MSH1 epi‐populations by crossing with msh1‐acquired soybean memory lines. Derived soybean epi‐lines showed increase in variance for multiple yield‐related traits including pods per plant, seed weight and maturity time in both glasshouse and field trials. Selected epi‐F2:4 and epi‐F2:5 lines showed an increase in seed yield over wild type. By epi‐F2:6, we observed a return of MSH1‐derived enhanced growth back to wild‐type levels. Epi‐populations also showed evidence of reduced epitype‐by‐environment (e × E) interaction, indicating higher yield stability. Transcript profiling of epi‐lines identified putative signatures of enhanced growth behaviour across generations. Genes related to cell cycle, abscisic acid biosynthesis and auxin response, particularly SMALL AUXIN UP RNAs (SAURs), were differentially expressed in epi‐F2:4 lines that showed increased yield when compared to epi‐F2:6. These data support the potential of MSH1‐derived epigenetic variation in plant breeding for enhanced yield and yield stability.
Factors affecting propofol dosage for sedation in pediatric oncology
Authors: Oh Tak Kyu , Park Boram , Lee Dong‐eun , Eom Woosik , Kang Sungwoo
Published: March 2018

Background

There is limited reference data for determining the appropriate dose of propofol for individual patients. Therefore, we investigated the factors affecting propofol dosage for pediatric patients undergoing sedation for computed tomography (CT) simulation.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed the electronic medical records of pediatric patients who underwent CT simulation for proton therapy following a cancer diagnosis at the National Cancer Center (Korea) between 1 May 2012 and 30 April 2016. We evaluated the following factors, which reflect comorbidities or chronic illness in pediatric oncology patients: age, tumor lesion, preterm birth, American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) classification, pre‐sedation temperature, history of propofol use, nothing by mouth time, chemotherapy history, pre‐sedation laboratory findings, regular medication (opioids, anticonvulsants), and use of diuretics. A regression analysis was performed and P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

Electronic medical records of 84 pediatric cancer patients were used in the analysis. Patients in ASA classes 1–2 required approximately 43% more propofol than patients in classes 3–4 (exp(β), 1.43; 95%CI: 1.21–1.69, P < 0.001).

Conclusion

American Society of Anesthesiologists class 3 or 4 is an independent indicator of decreased propofol dosage for pediatric oncology patients during sedation.