bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A perspective on education's importance for urban development
Authors: Joshi Priyadarshani
Published: August 2017

The 21stcentury has been called the ‘age of the city’. The concentration of human activity is what makes cities such an important space of opportunity and challenge. This article views urban development challenges from an education perspective and argues that education must be viewed as an important intermediary for capitalising on the physical, intellectual and social capital available in cities. The distribution of educational opportunity within cities must be monitored to ensure that education plays a role in reducing and not exacerbating urban inequalities. Making sure that the city works for all requires improving how we plan cities and making urban planning processes more inclusive through knowledge‐based participation. There needs to be more appreciation of education's role in transformative urban development and stronger advocacy by education stakeholders to gain a seat in the circles that wield the most power in the urban futures debates.
Non‐cognitive skills: Potential candidates for global measurement
Authors: Zhou Kai
Published: August 2017

Skills are widely considered as key elements that contribute to the sustainable development of nations and the well‐being of individuals. Given the increasing interests in the international comparisons of skills for informing educational policy, it is necessary to understand the definitions, measurement, and development of key skills. Using literature from economics, sociology, and psychology, this article focuses on non‐cognitive skills that have a positive effect on life outcomes and can be better developed through education and training. Three non‐cognitive skills – grit, self‐control and social skills are illustrated and thoroughly reviewed here. Although some progress has been made in developing and measuring non‐cognitive skills, there is currently no systematic global measure. Several factors hinder the global monitoring of non‐cognitive skills and inhibits effective non‐cognitive skills assessment across countries. These include a lack of solid evidence showing which soft skills predict academic and workforce outcomes and how does the strength of this relationship differ by situation.
A genetic assessment of the human‐facilitated colonization history of black swans in Australia and New Zealand
Authors: Montano Valeria , van Dongen Wouter F.D. , Weston Michael A. , Mulder Raoul A. , Robinson Randall W. , Cowling Mary , Guay Patrick‐Jean
Published: August 2017

Movement of species beyond their indigenous distribution can fundamentally alter the conservation status of the populations involved. If introductions are human‐facilitated, introduced species could be considered pests. Characterizing the colonization history of introduced species can therefore be critical to formulating the objectives and nature of wildlife management strategies. The black swan (Cygnus atratus) is native to Australia but is considered a reintroduced species in New Zealand, where the endemic population was reported extinct during the 19th century. After the reintroduction of a small number of individuals from Australia, the New Zealand population expanded unexpectedly rapidly, which was attributed to simultaneous waves of migration from Australia. An alternative, but hitherto unformalized, hypothesis is that local extant populations remained and admixed with introduced individuals. To contribute to our understanding of the reintroduction history of the species, we investigated dispersal patterns and demographic histories of seven populations from Australia and New Zealand, using population genetic inferences from a microsatellite dataset. Our results on genetic structure, dispersal rates, and demographic histories provide mixed evidence on the origin of New Zealand black swans. The hypothesis that reintroduced individuals mixed with remaining local individuals and that the subsequent dramatic population expansion may have been due to genetic rescue of the inbred indigenous population cannot be discarded and needs further investigation.
Adaptive evolution during the establishment of European avian‐like H1N1 influenza A virus in swine
Authors: Joseph Udayan , Vijaykrishna Dhanasekaran , Smith Gavin J.D. , Su Yvonne C.F.
Published: August 2017

An H1N1 subtype influenza A virus with all eight gene segments derived from wild birds (including mallards), ducks and chickens, caused severe disease outbreaks in swine populations in Europe beginning in 1979 and successfully adapted to form the European avian‐like swine (EA‐swine) influenza lineage. Genes of the EA‐swine lineage that are clearly segregated from its closest avian relatives continue to circulate in swine populations globally and represent a unique opportunity to study the adaptive process of an avian‐to‐mammalian cross‐species transmission. Here, we used a relaxed molecular clock model to test whether the EA‐swine virus originated through the introduction of a single avian ancestor as an entire genome, followed by an analysis of host‐specific selection pressures among different gene segments. Our data indicated independent introduction of gene segments via transmission of avian viruses into swine followed by reassortment events that occurred at least 1–4 years prior to the EA‐swine outbreak. All EA‐swine gene segments exhibit greater selection pressure than avian viruses, reflecting both adaptive pressures and relaxed selective constraints that are associated with host switching. Notably, we identified key amino acid mutations in the viral surface proteins (H1 and N1) that play a role in adaptation to new hosts. Following the establishment of EA‐swine lineage, we observed an increased frequency of intrasubtype reassortment of segments compared to the earlier strains that has been associated with adaptive amino acid replacements, disease severity and vaccine escape. Taken together, our study provides key insights into the adaptive changes in viral genomes following the transmission of avian influenza viruses to swine and the early establishment of the EA‐swine lineage.
Multisystemic bovine mycobacteriosis in a pony with neurological signs and weight loss
Authors: Charlesworth V.
Published: August 2017

This report describes the clinical, biochemical and histopathological findings of a case of disseminated, primary mycobacterial infection with Mycobacterium bovis in a pony presenting with neurological signs and weight loss. This report revisits tuberculosis as a potential differential diagnosis in horses at a time of relatively strong tuberculosis control in the UK and iterates the importance of post‐mortem examination as a diagnostic tool for clinicians. Key public health questions following exposure to mycobacterial pathogens are also discussed.
Unexpected stasis in a changing world: Lake nutrient and chlorophyll trends since 1990
Authors: Oliver Samantha K. , Collins Sarah M. , Soranno Patricia A. , Wagner Tyler , Stanley Emily H. , Jones John R. , Stow Craig A. , Lottig Noah R.
Published: August 2017

The United States (U.S.) has faced major environmental changes in recent decades, including agricultural intensification and urban expansion, as well as changes in atmospheric deposition and climate—all of which may influence eutrophication of freshwaters. However, it is unclear whether or how water quality in lakes across diverse ecological settings has responded to environmental change. We quantified water quality trends in 2913 lakes using nutrient and chlorophyll (Chl) observations from the Lake Multi‐Scaled Geospatial and Temporal Database of the Northeast U.S. (LAGOS‐NE), a collection of preexisting lake data mostly from state agencies. LAGOS‐NE was used to quantify whether lake water quality has changed from 1990 to 2013, and whether lake‐specific or regional geophysical factors were related to the observed changes. We modeled change through time using hierarchical linear models for total nitrogen (TN), total phosphorus (TP), stoichiometry (TN:TP), and Chl. Both the slopes (percent change per year) and intercepts (value in 1990) were allowed to vary by lake and region. Across all lakes, TN declined at a rate of 1.1% year−1, while TP, TN:TP, and Chl did not change. A minority (7%–16%) of individual lakes had changing nutrients, stoichiometry, or Chl. Of those lakes that changed, we found differences in the geospatial variables that were most related to the observed change in the response variables. For example, TN and TN:TP trends were related to region‐level drivers associated with atmospheric deposition of N; TP trends were related to both lake and region‐level drivers associated with climate and land use; and Chl trends were found in regions with high air temperature at the beginning of the study period. We conclude that despite large environmental change and management efforts over recent decades, water quality of lakes in the Midwest and Northeast U.S. has not overwhelmingly degraded or improved.
Estimating Travel Time in Bank Filtration Systems from a Numerical Model Based on DTS Measurements
Authors: des Tombe Bas F. , Bakker Mark , Schaars Frans , van der Made Kees‐Jan
Published: August 2017

An approach is presented to determine the seasonal variations in travel time in a bank filtration system using a passive heat tracer test. The temperature in the aquifer varies seasonally because of temperature variations of the infiltrating surface water and at the soil surface. Temperature was measured with distributed temperature sensing along fiber optic cables that were inserted vertically into the aquifer with direct push equipment. The approach was applied to a bank filtration system consisting of a sequence of alternating, elongated recharge basins and rows of recovery wells. A SEAWAT model was developed to simulate coupled flow and heat transport. The model of a two‐dimensional vertical cross section is able to simulate the temperature of the water at the well and the measured vertical temperature profiles reasonably well. MODPATH was used to compute flowpaths and the travel time distribution. At the study site, temporal variation of the pumping discharge was the dominant factor influencing the travel time distribution. For an equivalent system with a constant pumping rate, variations in the travel time distribution are caused by variations in the temperature‐dependent viscosity. As a result, travel times increase in the winter, when a larger fraction of the water travels through the warmer, lower part of the aquifer, and decrease in the summer, when the upper part of the aquifer is warmer.
Evaluation of the expected ventilatory response to metabolic acidosis in chronic hemodialysis patients
Authors: Marano Marco
Published: August 2017

Introduction: Expected pCO2 during metabolic acidosis should be computed to rule out superimposing respiratory acid‐base disorders, the latter being featured by too high or too low pCO2 than expected. At least 4 different and inconsistent formulas exist. Based on the common practical rule, the reduction of pCO2 equals 1.2 multiplied by the reduction of serum bicarbonate ([]), whereas pCO2 equals to the 2 digit after pH decimal point according to Fulop. Instead, based on Winters' formula, pCO2 equals to 1.5 times [] + 8. Finally, a very simple formula has been proposed, it reads pCO2 = [] + 15. Beyond the evident simplicity, the latter has been effective in a small hemodialysis cohort but validation in a larger dataset is highly desirable.

Methods: Formulas have been applied to 180 hemodialysis patients' blood samples dataset featured by mild metabolic acidosis (HCO3 ≥ 14 mEq/L) and root mean square errors (RMSE) associated with each formula were computed. pCO2 reference range was computed as expected pCO2 ± 2 RMSE.

Findings: Fulop's rule and Winters' formula are associated with large prediction errors. Conversely, the common practical rule and the very simple formula are both featured by the same low error (1.7 mmHg). They further show good agreement and pick out the same reference range.

Discussion: Superimposing respiratory acid‐base disorders can be promptly and effectively ruled out by computing expected pCO2 as [] + 15, a very simple formula proved to be interchangeable with the common practical rule that requires computes and assumptions, but leads to same results.
Peristomal skin complications: what dermatologists need to know
Authors: Almutairi Dalal , LeBlanc Kimberly , Alavi Afsaneh
Published: August 2017

A stoma is an artificial opening to the skin formed when a part of the gastrointestinal tract is resected and opened to the skin in order to divert the bowel content to the skin surface. The incidence of stomal and peristomal complication varies from 30 to 67% with a significant negative impact on patient quality of life. Despite their prevalence, care providers tend to show insufficient awareness of peristomal skin complications, and research‐based evidence related to peristomal skin complication and management options particularly in dermatology literature is sparse. This article will present a comprehensive review of peristomal skin complications in classification, clinical presentation, causes, prevention, and management aiming at increasing knowledge about this topic.
The influence of persuasive messages on healthy eating habits: a test of the Theory of Reasoned Action when attitudes and subjective norm are targeted for change
Authors: Lindsey Lisa L. Massi
Published: August 2017

Messages designed to improve healthy eating habits are all around us, often aiming to change our attitudes and perceptions toward specific eating behaviors so that we will adopt better habits. This study provides a test of the Theory of Reasoned Action (TRA) to better understand the impact of influence messages on healthy eating. This longitudinal cohort study examined the TRA within two systems of change: (1) when attitudes and (2) subjective norms were influenced by messages to increase fruit/vegetable consumption and prevent meal skipping. Participants were assigned randomly to one of three messages: (1) no‐message control group, (2) attitude message, and (3) subjective norm message. For fruit/vegetable consumption, when attitude or subjective norm changed, TRA's predictions were not consistent with the data. With no change present, TRA's predictions were consistent with control group data. These results were not replicated with skipping meals. The only model to predict accurately participants' skipped meals was a simple causal string (attitudes impacted intentions which predicted behavior). Persuasive messages can influence healthy eating behavior, but the mechanism is not consistent with TRA predictions. Also, using messages to influence healthy eating subjective norms proved difficult.
Psychometric testing of the revised “Families’ Importance in Nursing Care—Nurses’ Attitudes instrument”
Authors: Mackie Benjamin R. , Marshall Andrea , Mitchell Marion , Ireland Michael J.
Published: August 2017

Background

The validity of instruments is crucial in ensuring that data collected are sound and that these data represent what the instrument claims to measure. When an instrument is revised or used in a different population, it is useful to re‐examine its construct validity.

Aim

To test the psychometrics properties of an instrument—the revised Families’ Importance In Nursing Care—Nurses’ Attitudes, designed to measure nurse’ attitudes towards involving family in nursing care in an adult acute care setting.

Design and methodology

A cross‐sectional survey design was used in April–May 2016 with a sample of Enrolled and Registered Nurses (N = 212) to test the factor structure of the revised Families’ Importance In Nursing‐Nurses’ Attitudes instrument. The instrument had 26 items with a five‐point Likert response scale. Principle components analysis and exploratory factor analysis were performed with oblique rotations to assess the internal structure of the instrument.

Setting

A regional referral hospital in Queensland, Australia.

Results

Using Principal Components Analysis and Principal Axis Factoring, we obtained the same factor structure to that originally identified for the instrument. Our results suggested the removal of six items to refine the instrument and achieve simple structure.

Conclusion

The removal of several items, relabeling of factors and residual cross‐loading issues suggest that further revisions to the instrument are needed.
Females drive asymmetrical introgression from rare to common species in Darwin's tree finches
Authors: Peters K. J. , Myers S. A. , Dudaniec R. Y. , O'Connor J. A. , Kleindorfer S.
Published: August 2017

The consequences of hybridization for biodiversity depend on the specific ecological and evolutionary context in which it occurs. Understanding patterns of gene flow among hybridizing species is crucial for determining the evolutionary trajectories of species assemblages. The recently discovered hybridization between two species of Darwin's tree finches (Camarhynchus parvulus and C. pauper) on Floreana Island, Galápagos, presents an exciting opportunity to investigate the mechanisms causing hybridization and its potential evolutionary consequences under conditions of recent habitat disturbance and the introduction of invasive pathogens. In this study, we combine morphological and genetic analysis with pairing observations to explore the extent, direction and drivers of hybridization and to test whether hybridization patterns are a result of asymmetrical pairing preference driven by females of the rarer species (C. pauper). We found asymmetrical introgression from the critically endangered, larger‐bodied C. pauper to the common, smaller‐bodied C. parvulus, which was associated with a lack of selection against heterospecific males by C. pauper females. Examination of pairing data showed that C. parvulus females paired assortatively, whereas C. pauper females showed no such pattern. This study shows how sex‐specific drivers can determine the direction of gene flow in hybridizing species. Furthermore, our results suggest the existence of a hybrid swarm comprised of C. parvulus and hybrid birds. We discuss the influence of interspecific abundance differences and susceptibility to the invasive parasite Philornis downsi on the observed hybridization and recommend that the conservation of this iconic species group should be managed jointly rather than species‐specific.
No geographic variation in thermoregulatory colour plasticity and limited variation in heat‐avoidance behaviour inBattus philenorcaterpillars
Authors: Nielsen M. E.
Published: August 2017

Phenotypic plasticity can help organisms cope with variation in their current environment, including temperature variation, but not all environments are equally variable. In the least variable or extreme environments, plasticity may no longer be used. In this case, the plasticity could be lost altogether, or it could persist with either the same or an altered reaction norm, depending on factors such as the plasticity's costs. In the pipevine swallowtail caterpillar (Battus philenor), I tested for changes in two forms of heat‐avoidance plasticity, colour change and refuge‐seeking behaviour, across the species’ range in the United states, including the cooler eastern parts of its range where colour change has not been observed and is unlikely to be needed. I found that both heat‐avoidance behaviour and colour change persisted in all surveyed populations. Indeed, the reaction norm for colour change remained nearly unaltered, whereas the threshold for refuge‐seeking only changed slightly across populations. These results suggest that the costs of these plastic traits are low enough for them to be maintained by whatever minimal gene flow the population receives. I show that plasticity can be maintained unaltered in populations where it is not used and discuss the potential consequences of this persistence for both the ecology and evolution of plasticity.
Breeding biology and the evolution of dynamic sexual dichromatism in frogs
Authors: Bell R. C. , Webster G. N. , Whiting M. J.
Published: August 2017

Dynamic sexual dichromatism is a temporary colour change between the sexes and has evolved independently in a wide range of anurans, many of which are explosive breeders wherein males physically compete for access to females. Behavioural studies in a few species indicate that dynamic dichromatism functions as a visual signal in large breeding aggregations; however, the prevalence of this trait and the social and environmental factors underlying its expression are poorly understood. We compiled a database of 178 anurans with dynamic dichromatism that include representatives from 15 families and subfamilies. Dynamic dichromatism is common in two of the three subfamilies of hylid treefrogs. Phylogenetic comparative analyses of 355 hylid species (of which 95 display dynamic dichromatism) reveal high transition rates between dynamic dichromatism, ontogenetic (permanent) dichromatism and monochromatism reflecting the high evolutionary lability of this trait. Correlated evolution in hylids between dynamic dichromatism and forming large breeding aggregations indicates that the evolution of large breeding aggregations precedes the evolution of dynamic dichromatism. Multivariate phylogenetic logistic regression recovers the interaction between biogeographic distribution and forming breeding aggregations as a significant predictor of dynamic dichromatism in hylids. Accounting for macroecological differences between temperate and tropical regions, such as seasonality and the availability of breeding sites, may improve our understanding of ecological contexts in which dynamic dichromatism is likely to arise in tropical lineages and why it is retained in some temperate species and lost in others.
Artificial neural network model for the kinetics of canola oil extraction for different seed samples and pretreatments
Authors: Sánchez R. J. , Fernández M. B. , Nolasco S. M.
Published: August 2017

In this work, a multi‐layer feedforward artificial neural network (ANN) was used for modeling and predicting the oil extraction yields of three canola samples with three pretreatments (unpretreatment, hydrothermal, and microwave pretreatment), considering extraction time and temperature as variables. Based on the results of the training, validation, and testing of the network, a neural network with eleven neurons in one hidden layer was selected as the best architecture for predicting the oil extraction yield response. Results obtained by the ANN model were compared with models from the literature (modified Fick's diffusion models), generally obtaining a more accurate fit with the ANN model.

Practical applications

Existing models of canola oil extraction kinetics have some limitations since they are not able to describe various conditions, such as variability among samples and pretreatments. Artificial neural networks (ANN) are powerful and high‐precision computational statistical modeling techniques that can address different problems. The aim of this work was to model the kinetics of canola oil extraction under different conditions (varying temperature, samples of canola, pretreatments applied) with an ANN, which presents several advantages over other reported models, allowing to describe a process that depends on many variables even when the data are incomplete or contain errors, thus facilitating its industrial application.
Shelf life extension of chicken packed in active film developed with mango peel extract
Authors: Kanatt Sweetie R. , Chawla S. P.
Published: August 2017

India is the largest producer of mango in the world and disposal of the huge amount of peel generated as a waste, is a problem. In this work the potential of using this waste for developing food packaging film that can extend the shelf of chicken packed in it was investigated. The effect of four extracting solvents and two extraction techniques on the antioxidant and antimicrobial activity of mango peel (MP) from four popular Indian mango varieties (Alphonso, Kesar, Langra, and Badami) were investigated. Best bioactive properties were observed in Langra variety extracted by sonication in 80% acetone followed by in 70% ethanol. These two extracts were used to prepare functional food packaging films using poly vinyl alcohol (PVA), cyclodextrin, and gelatin as the polymers. Composite films containing MP had good barrier to UV light. Tensile strength of film containing 70% ethanol extract of MP was higher than that of control films. Antioxidant activity and antibacterial activity (against both gram‐positive and gram‐negative organisms) was observed in films containing MP. Minced chicken meat packed in films not containing MP spoiled within 3 days while that packed in MP containing films had a shelf life of more than 12 days during chilled storage. PVA‐cyclodextrin‐gelatin film containing Langra mango peel extract is a viable option for development of active food packaging that can be used as a primary packaging material.

Practical applications

Active packaging is an emerging field in the food industry which has the potential to reduce the use of synthetic additives and polymers. Mango peel is a waste produced in large quantities by the mango processing industry and is rich in bioactive compounds. This can be used as the active component in biodegradable films that can extend the shelf life of the food packed in it. Thus the use of both synthetic additives and plastics can be minimized.
Isolation and identification of Enterobacteriaceae from traditional Serbian cheese and their physiological characteristics
Authors: Mladenović Katarina G. , Muruzović Mirjana Ž. , Žugić Petrović Tanja , Stefanović Olgica D. , Čomić Ljiljana R.
Published: August 2017

In this paper, the presence of enterobacteria in autochthonous cheese from Southeast Serbia (Sokobanja), made in the traditional way, was investigated. The samples from different households, was taken during the summer and the autumn. Chemical and physical characteristics of samples (water content, fat content, acidity, pH, and sodium chloride content) were examined. In the analyzed samples of cheese, four different genera of family Enterobacteriaceae (Klebsiella [65%], Escherichia [20%], Serratia [10%], and Enterobacter [5%]) were identified. The members of genus Klebsiella were Klebsiella oxytoca, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Klebsiella ornithinolytica, while in the genus Escherichia only one species, Escherichia coli was identified. Besides, two species of the genus Serratia, Serratia odorifera and Serratia marcescens biogp 1, and one species of the genus Enterobacter, Enterobacter gergoviae, were identified. Biochemical characteristics, proteolytic and lipolytic activity, sensitivity to streptomycin, chloramphenicol, and tetracycline were, also, determined. According to the rapid latex agglutination test, of the four E. coli isolates, two isolates belong to serotype E. coli O157.

Practical applications

The results of this study contribute to better understanding of unexplored microflora of cheese from Sokobanja. The isolated genera were Klebsiella sp., Escherichia sp., Enterobacter sp., and Serratia sp. with twenty identified species. It is well known that bacteria from family Enterobacteriaceae could affect organoleptic properties of cheese. Bacteria isolated from cheese from Sokobanja mostly did not manifest proteolytic and lipolytic activity. The most number of isolates were susceptible to tested antibiotics. Further researches may contribute to better understanding of interaction between enterobacteria and lactic acid bacteria in autochthonous cheeses.
Effect of Ziziphora clinopodioides essential oil on shelf life and fate of Listeria monocytogenes and Staphylococcus aureus in refrigerated chicken meatballs
Authors: Shahbazi Yasser , Karami Negin , Shavisi Nassim
Published: August 2017

The aim of the present study was to evaluate application of Ziziphora clinopodioides essential oil (ZEO) to extend shelf life and control Listeria monocytogenes and Staphylococcus aureus in chicken meatballs. The control and treated samples with different concentrations of ZEO (0.1, 0.2, and 0.3% vol/wt) were preserved at refrigerated temperature for 12 days and analyzed for microbial (total viable count, psychrotrophic bacteria, Pseudomonas spp., Enterobacteriaceae, L. monocytogenes, and S. aureus), chemical (total volatile base nitrogen, peroxide value, protein carbonyl contents, and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances), and sensory (odor and off odor) properties at 2‐day intervals. According to our findings, treated samples with different concentrations of ZEO showed better microbiological, chemical, and organoleptic properties compared to control sample until the end of the study period. Our results showed that 0.3% ZEO could be used for chicken meatball preservation without any unfavorable sensory properties.

Practical applications

Nowadays, increasing research has been focused on the application of different essential oils to extend shelf life and also control food‐related pathogens in different food model systems due to concern regarding the use of synthetic additives and also increasing consumer interest for improvement of quality and organoleptic properties of food products. In the present study, Ziziphora clinopodioides essential oil as a natural substance could successfully extend the shelf life and control Listeria monocytogenes and Staphylococcus aureus in raw chicken meatball preserved at 4 °C until home cooking. Based on our findings, this essential oil can be used as a natural antimicrobial alternative to the synthetic chemical preservatives in food such as chicken meatball.
Activating sodium alginate‐based edible coating using a dietary supplement for increasing the shelf life of rainbow trout fillet during refrigerated storage (4 ± 1 °C)
Authors: Bazargani‐Gilani Behnaz
Published: August 2017

This study aimed to examine activating sodium alginate‐based edible coating (AL) with resveratrol (RE) as a dietary supplement for increasing the shelf life of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) fillet during refrigerated storage. Administered treatments were AL, AL–RE 0.1%, AL–RE 0.2%, and control. Samples were stored at 4 °C for 15 days and analyzed at 3‐day intervals. All treatments indicated a significant decrease (p ≤ .05) in their total viable counts, psychrotrophic bacteria, Enterobacteriaceae, Pseudomonas spp., lactic acid bacteria, and yeasts–molds compared to the control in the storage period. Thiobarbituric acid value and total volatile basic nitrogen were significantly lower in all treatments (p ≤ .05) compared to the control. RE improved the alginate effects on increasing the shelf life of the samples. In conclusion, RE can be considered as a replacement to the synthetic antimicrobials and synthetic antioxidants in the rainbow trout fillets with more health benefits.

Practical applications

Since fish fillets are very perishable products, improving preservation techniques for enhancing their shelf‐life seems quite necessary. Besides bacterial growth, oxidation reactions can induce the spoilage of fish meat in the storage period. The various synthetic preservatives are generally undesired by consumers because of their adverse effects. Resveratrol, a dietary supplement, can be used as a natural antioxidant and antimicrobial in the rainbow trout fillet with added health benefits.
Utility of magnetic resonance elastography for predicting ascites in patients with chronic liver disease
Authors: Abe Kazumichi , Takahashi Atsushi , Imaizumi Hiromichi , Hayashi Manabu , Okai Ken , Kanno Yukiko , Sato Naoya , Kenjo Akira , Marubashi Shigeru , Ohira Hiromasa
Published: August 2017

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate the utility of magnetic resonance elastography (MRE) as a non‐invasive method for predicting ascites in patients with chronic liver disease (CLD).

Methods

A total of 208 CLD patients underwent MRE to measure liver stiffness (LS) at our institution from March 2013 to June 2015. We evaluated the diagnostic performance of MRE for predicting the presence of ascites using receiver‐operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis and compared the performance with that of serum fibrosis markers. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to identify factors associated with the presence of ascites. The cumulative incidence of ascites was examined in patients without ascites at baseline. The pathological stage of liver fibrosis was evaluated in 81 CLD patients using histopathologic diagnosis.

Results

Of the 208 patients, 41 had ascites. The optimal cut‐off LS value for the presence of ascites was 6.0 kPa (area under the ROC curve = 0.87). The area under the ROC curve for the presence of ascites was significantly higher for MRE than that for fibrosis markers. Multivariate analysis revealed that LS >6.0 kPa is an independent risk factor for the presence of ascites. The cumulative incidence of ascites was significantly higher among those with LS values >6.0 kPa. There was significantly greater diagnostic accuracy for liver fibrosis stage ≥4 with MRE than that with fibrosis markers.

Conclusions

Compared with serum fibrosis markers, MRE has higher diagnostic performance in predicting the presence of ascites. MRE‐based LS has the potential to predict the presence of ascites in CLD patients.
A de novo dominant mutation in KIF1A associated with axonal neuropathy, spasticity and autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Tomaselli Pedro J. , Rossor Alexander M. , Horga Alejandro , Laura Matilde , Blake Julian C. , Houlden Henry , Reilly Mary M.
Published: August 2017

Mutations in the kinesin family member 1A (KIF1A) gene have been associated with a wide range of phenotypes including recessive mutations causing hereditary sensory neuropathy and hereditary spastic paraplegia and de novo dominant mutations causing a more complex neurological disorder affecting both the central and peripheral nervous system. We identified by exome sequencing a de novo dominant missense variant, (c.38G>A, p.R13H), within an ATP binding site of the kinesin motor domain in a patient manifesting a complex phenotype characterized by autism spectrum disorder (ASD), spastic paraplegia and axonal neuropathy. The presence of ASD distinguishes this case from previously reported patients with de novo dominant mutations in KIF1A.
Call to Action: The Case for Advancing Disaster Nursing Education in the United States
Authors: Veenema Tener Goodwin , Lavin Roberta Proffitt , Griffin Anne , Gable Alicia R. , Couig Mary Pat , Dobalian Aram
Published: August 2017

Purpose

Climate change, human conflict, and emerging infectious diseases are inexorable actors in our rapidly evolving healthcare landscape that are triggering an ever‐increasing number of disaster events. A global nursing workforce is needed that possesses the knowledge, skills, and abilities to respond to any disaster or large‐scale public health emergency in a timely and appropriate manner. The purpose of this article is to articulate a compelling mandate for the advancement of disaster nursing education within the United States with clear action steps in order to contribute to the achievement of this vision.

Design and Methods

A national panel of invited disaster nursing experts was convened through a series of monthly semistructured conference calls to work collectively towards the achievement of a national agenda for the future of disaster nursing education.

Findings

National nursing education experts have developed consensus recommendations for the advancement of disaster nursing education in the United States. This article proposes next steps and action items to achieve the desired vision of national nurse readiness.

Conclusions

Novel action steps for expanding disaster educational opportunities across the continuum of nursing are proposed in response to the current compelling need to prepare for, respond to, and mitigate the impact of disasters on human health. U.S. educational institutions and health and human service organizations that employ nurses must commit to increasing access to a variety of quality disaster‐related educational programs for nurses and nurse leaders.

Clinical Relevance

Opportunities exist to strengthen disaster readiness and enhance national health security by expanding educational programming and training for nurses.
Reliable and simple spectrophotometric determination of sun protection factor: A case study using organic UV filter‐based sunscreen products
Authors: Yang Soo In , Liu Shuanghui , Brooks Geoffrey J , Lanctot Yves , Gruber James V
Published: August 2017

Background

Current in vitro SPF screening method for plant oil body (oleosome)‐based SPF products possesses significant inconsistency and low reliability in the SPF rating.

Objectives

The primary objective of this study was to evaluate the reliability and reproducibility of spectrophotometrically determined sun protection factor (SPF) from oleosome‐based SPF products. The secondary objective was the data comparison of the spectrophotometric measurements against in vivo SPF testing to establish a reliable in vitro test method as a screening assay.

Methods

Octyl methoxycinnamate (UVB filter) and avobenzone (UVA filter) were loaded into safflower oil bodies and formulated into oil‐in‐water emulsion‐based finished products. To evaluate the reliability between in vivo and spectrophotometric test methods, samples were dispatched to a clinical laboratory, and the reported SPF values were compared with spectrophotometric test results.

Results

The observed SPF from the in vivo and spectrophotometric test results demonstrated a high correlation for SPF 30 products. Proportional correlation between the two evaluation methods was observed for SPF 15 and 50 products with slightly lesser accuracy with a smaller number of population tested in the clinical studies.

Conclusions

A reliable spectrophotometric screening method for oil body‐based SPF formulas has been developed using two broadly used organic UV sunscreen actives as a case study. The results demonstrated a high level of reproducibility and reliability compared to the US FDA‐guided in vivo SPF testing method.
The coping experiences of spouses of persons with dementia
Authors: Myhre Janne , Bjørnstad Tonga Johanne , Ulstein Ingun Dina , Høye Sevald , Kvaal Kari
Published: August 2017

Aims and objectives

To explore how spouses who are caregivers to persons with dementia experience everyday life 6–12 months after participation in the intervention condition in the Norwegian Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Early Dementia (N‐CORDIAL) study.

Background

There is no current medical curative treatment for cognitive impairment and dementia‐associated conditions. These conditions will lead to an increased need for daily assistance and care, as well as greater stress for caregivers. The NorwegianCORDIALStudy is a manual‐based randomised controlled trial based on the GermanCORDIALstudy (cognitive rehabilitation and cognitive behavioural treatment for early dementia in Alzheimer's disease), consisting of cognitive rehabilitation, cognitive behavioural therapy and life review methods.

Design and methods

A descriptive exploratory study with qualitative semi‐structured in‐depth interviews with six spouses of persons with dementia who had participated in the NorwegianCORDIALstudy. The transcribed text was analysed by systematic text condensation.

Result

The main theme identified, “An everyday search for meaning,” referred to the stress experienced by the caregivers and their coping strategies in everyday life.

Conclusion

The caregivers had gained increased awareness of coping strategies in everyday life 6–12 months after the intervention. Caregivers who experienced fewer neuropsychiatric symptoms in their spouses with dementia benefitted most from the intervention.

Relevance to clinical practice

The study is relevant to clinical practice as interventions focusing on how to improve coping strategies may reduce caregiver stress and contribute to postponement of nursing home placement.
Predictors of smoking relapse after percutaneous coronary intervention in Chinese patients
Authors: Zhang Tingyu , Wang Lizi , Xu Zhenzhen , Zhang Qiongxiao , Ye Yawen
Published: August 2017

Aims and objectives

To evaluate the prevalence and predictors of smoking relapse after percutaneous coronary intervention in Chinese patients.

Background

Smoking is considered a vital risk factor for coronary heart disease. Although smoking cessation could decrease the risks of adverse cardiac outcomes, many patients resume smoking following a short period of abstinence. However, little is known about smoking resumption in patients who have undergone percutaneous coronary intervention.

Design and methods

A longitudinal study was conducted among Chinese patients who underwent percutaneous coronary intervention. Predictive variables were assessed at baseline through medical records and interviews with questionnaires including the Fagerström Test for Nicotine Dependence, Center for Epidemiologic Studies‐Depression scale and Smoking Self‐Efficacy Questionnaire. Smoking relapses were recorded at three, six, nine and 12 months by the self‐reporting through telephone or at routine visits to the cardiology outpatient clinics.

Results

A total of 221 patients who quit smoking immediately after percutaneous coronary intervention completed the whole study. Overall, 51.1%(n = 113) of the patients relapsed within 12 months after percutaneous coronary intervention.

The prevalence showed a particular rise (49.6%, n = 56) in the first 3 months and a more gradual increase in the following months. The patients who were employed and had higher nicotine dependence, worse depressive symptoms and lower level of smoking self‐efficacy were more vulnerable to relapse to cigarettes.

Conclusion

The prevalence of smoking relapse is high in the patients who stop smoking in the hospital due to percutaneous coronary intervention. The predictors of smoking relapse are employment, nicotine dependence, depression and smoking self‐efficacy in the post‐ percutaneous coronary intervention patients.

Relevance to clinical practice

This study may prompt the healthcare providers to focus on the issue of smoking relapse and provide some instructions for identification of the patients with a high‐risk of relapse after percutaneous coronary intervention.
Factors influencing the implementation of evidence in Chinese nursing practice
Authors: Cheng Lei , Broome Marion E , Feng Sheng , Hu Yan
Published: August 2017

Aims and objectives

To explore the influencing factors from staff nurses, nurse managers, nursing directors and a physician involved in nursing evidence implementation in Mainland China.

Background

Although the need for evidence‐based nursing is well recognised, continuous efforts are needed to strive for closing the gap from evidence to action. Previous studies have explored influencing factors from individual and organisational perspectives in Western countries. However, it remains unclear what the influences (i.e., context and culture) in the developing countries as China.

Design

A grounded theory design using in‐depth individual interviews was conducted.

Methods

Interviews with 56 participants from 24 evidence‐based nursing implementation projects were conducted in Mainland China. Constant comparative analysis was used to discover the concepts describing the influencing factors during the implementation process.

Results

Factors that influenced implementation of evidence‐based practice in the Chinese context were identified. These included the leaders of the projects, the nature of the evidence, practising nurses, patients involved in the projects, the system where the projects were implemented, as well as the influence from outside of the system.

Conclusions

A variety of factors influencing evidence implementation in Chinese nursing context were identified and further explored from the perspective of different project leaders and culture influence. There is apparently a strong demand for a supportive system, targeted strategies to facilitate various evidence implementations and integrated core elements of evidence‐based practice at the point care.

Relevance to clinical practice

The blurred boundaries and complexity of influencing factors call for a systematic and dynamic perspective during implementation. The competitive priorities emphasise the importance of integration between clinical nursing care and evidence‐based practice.
A comparison of food crispness based on the cloud model
Authors: Wang Minghui , Sun Yonghai , Hou Jumin , Wang Xia , Bai Xue , Wu Chunhui , Yu Libo , Yang Jie
Published: August 2017

The cloud model is a typical model which transforms the qualitative concept into the quantitative description. The cloud model has been used less extensively in texture studies before. The purpose of this study was to apply the cloud model in food crispness comparison. The acoustic signals of carrots, white radishes, potatoes, Fuji apples, and crystal pears were recorded during compression. And three time‐domain signal characteristics were extracted, including sound intensity, maximum short‐time frame energy, and waveform index. The three signal characteristics and the cloud model were used to compare the crispness of the samples mentioned above. The crispness based on the Ex value of the cloud model, in a descending order, was carrot > potato > white radish > Fuji apple > crystal pear. To verify the results of the acoustic signals, mechanical measurement and sensory evaluation were conducted. The results of the two verification experiments confirmed the feasibility of the cloud model. The microstructures of the five samples were also analyzed. The microstructure parameters were negatively related with crispness (p < .01).

Practical applications

The cloud model method can be used for crispness comparison of different kinds of foods. The method is more accurate than the traditional methods such as mechanical measurement and sensory evaluation. The cloud model method can also be applied to other texture studies extensively.
Hepatitis B Virus‐Hepatitis D Virus mother‐to‐child co‐transmission: A retrospective study in a developed country
Authors: Sellier Pierre O. , Maylin Sarah , Brichler Ségolène , Berçot Béatrice , Lopes Amanda , Chopin Dorothée , Pogliaghi Manuela , Munier Anne‐Lise , Delcey Véronique , Simoneau Guy , Evans John , Gordien Emmanuel , Simon François , Bergmann Jean‐François
Published: August 2017

Background & Aims

Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) DNA during chronic infection can reach levels at which mother‐to‐child (MTC) transmission frequently occurs despite passive‐active immunization of newborns. Hepatitis D Virus (HDV) RNA can reach high levels, we assessed HBV/HDV MTC co‐transmission.

Methods

Monocentric retrospective study (registered in ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT02044055)), after informed consent in HBV/HDV co‐infected women pregnant between 01/01/2004 and 01/01/2015 in Paris, France. The children were tested when 24 months of age or older.

Results

Twenty‐two (3%) of 742 HBV infected women, HDV co‐infected, gave birth to 54 children during the study period. HBV DNA was above 5 Log10 I.U/mL in 10 pregnancies previous any treatment, with HDV RNA of less than 2.3 Log10 I.U/mL. HDV RNA was above 5 Log10 I.U/mL in eight pregnancies previous any treatment, with HBV DNA of less than 1.5 Log10 I.U/mL. Inverse patterns of HBV DNA and HDV RNA were observed in 17 of 35 (49%) pregnancies: 13 (76%) received no HBV treatment; four (24%) were treated. HBV DNA was under 5 Log10 I.U/mL in 46 of the 50 assessed women (92%) at birth. Of the 36 assessed children, given passive‐active immunization, 24 (66%) were protected, 10 (28%) were neither infected nor protected, one was chronically HBV infected, and one had a past HBV infection. HDV Ab was negative in the 36 children.

Conclusions

These results suggest that HBV/HDV MTC co‐transmission is exceptional. Studies are needed, mainly in developing countries.