bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Trends of infodemiology studies: a scoping review
Authors: Zeraatkar Kimia , Ahmadi Maryam
Published: May 2018

Introduction

The health care industry is rich in data and information. Web technologies, such as search engines and social media, have provided an opportunity for the management of user generated data in real time in the form of infodemiology studies. The aim of this study was to investigate infodemiology studies conducted during 2002–2016, and compare them based on developed, developing and in transition countries.

Methods

This scoping review was conducted in 2017 with the help of the PRISMA guidelines. PubMed, Scopus, Science Direct, Web of Knowledge, Google Scholar, Wiley and Springer databases were searched between the years 2002 and 2016. Finally, 56 articles were included in the review and analysed.

Results

The initial infodemiology studies pertain to the quality assessment of the hospital's websites. Most of the studies were on developed countries, based on flu, and published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research.

Conclusion

The infodemiology approach provides unmatched opportunities for the management of health data and information generated by the users. Using this potential will provide unique opportunities for the health information need assessment in real time by health librarians and thereby provide evidence based health information to the people.
Vacuum impregnation of chitosan‐based edible coating in minimally processed pumpkin
Authors: Soares Ariana de Souza , Ramos Afonso Mota , Vieira Érica Nascif Rufino , Vanzela Ellen Silva Lago , de Oliveira Patrícia Martins , Paula Daniele de Almeida
Published: May 2018

The goal of this research was to evaluate the use of vacuum impregnation (VI) and soaking techniques (ST) in the application of edible coatings of chitosan and chitosan + lauric acid to minimally processed pumpkins (MPP). The vacuum impregnation method led to greater component incorporation (5.9% and 1.75%, respectively) in the pumpkins when compared to soaking and consequently the formation of more uniform, thicker coatings (25.6 and 22.3 μm, respectively). However, VI caused greater changes in pH, acidity, colour and firmness. Relating to water content and carotenoid content, noncoated pumpkins presented greater losses during the storage period, regardless of impregnation method. The pumpkins with edible coatings, regardless of method, presented lower numbers of psychrotrophic micro‐organisms and coliforms during the storage period. Therefore, soaking was considered the best method for the application of chitosan‐based edible coatings to minimally processed pumpkins, as it led to smaller changes in the properties of the product.
Tension‐free vaginal mesh surgery versus laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy for pelvic organ prolapse: Analysis of perioperative outcomes using a Japanese national inpatient database
Authors: Obinata Daisuke , Sugihara Toru , Yasunaga Hideo , Mochida Junichi , Yamaguchi Kenya , Murata Yasutaka , Yoshizawa Tsuyoshi , Matsui Tsuyoshi , Matsui Hiroki , Sasabuchi Yusuke , Fujimura Tetsuya , Homma Yukio , Takahashi Satoru
Published: May 2018

Objective

To compare nationwide outcomes of tension‐free vaginal mesh surgery and laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy for the treatment of pelvic organ prolapse in Japan.

Methods

Using the Diagnosis Procedure Combination database, we collected data on female patients who underwent tension‐free vaginal mesh surgery or laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy for pelvic organ prolapse from April 2014 to March 2015. We compared the proportion of perioperative adverse events, duration of anesthesia, total costs and postoperative length of stay between the groups. Univariate and multivariate analyses were carried out for age, comorbidity, mesh volume, additional concomitant surgery and hospital volume.

Results

We identified 3023 patients, including 2388 who underwent tension‐free vaginal mesh surgery, and 635 who underwent laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy. The median age at the time of surgery was significantly higher in the tension‐free vaginal mesh group (71 vs 66 years; P < 0.001). The tension‐free vaginal mesh group had a higher proportion of all adverse events (7.1% vs 1.8%; P < 0.001) and a higher proportion of genitourinary complications (5.7% vs 1.1%; P < 0.001). The median duration of anesthesia was shorter in the tension‐free vaginal mesh group (150 vs 286 min; P < 0.001). The total cost was significantly lower in the tension‐free vaginal mesh group.

Conclusions

Both procedures offer favorable results for surgical treatment of pelvic organ prolapse. Overall, the tension‐free vaginal mesh procedure seems to represent a good option for high‐risk women, such as elderly patients, whereas laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy is useful for younger patients with a higher level of sexual activity.
Electric field‐assisted precipitation of lead selenide quantum dots in borosilicate glass
Authors: Tesfamariam Belay Brehane , So Byoungjin , Heo Jong
Published: May 2018

The influence of electric field on the precipitation and optical properties of PbSe quantum dots (QDs) in borosilicate glasses was investigated. Diameters of the PbSe QDs increased as was increased from 0.0 to 0.6 kV/mm even at the same subsequent heat treatment at 510°C for 2 hours. Increase in to 0.9 kV/mm caused red‐shift of the absorption and photoluminescence (PL) bands of QDs. Application of also led to decreases in viscosities that accelerated diffusion of ions; this phenomenon led to the formation of large QDs and resulted in the red‐shifts of the absorption and PL bands. Increase in the temperature due to Joule heating was ~38°C that led to an observed decrease in viscosities.
Synthesis of cubic sodium tungsten bronze NaxWO3 in air
Authors: Li Xuhai , Xie Ruishi , Cao Xiuxia , Liu Lixin , Xu Liang , Wang Yuan , Meng Chuammin , Wu Qiang
Published: May 2018

A solid‐state reaction route was used to synthesis cubic sodium tungsten bronze, NaxWO3. The NaxWO3 crystals were successfully prepared through reducing Na2WO4 with boron carbide (B4C) in air condition, followed by washing with hot‐water. The solid‐state reaction between Na2WO4 and B4C occurred at 600‐700°C, and the insertion amount of sodium ion is as high as 0.82. The obtained NaxWO3 crystals present an orange color, and the crystal size can grow to ~40 μm in just 20 minutes. The advantage of the method lies in the potential energy and cost savings over other conventional synthetic routes.
Critical care nurses’ experiences of caring for a dying child: A qualitative evidence synthesis
Authors: Grimston Mitchell , Butler Ashleigh E. , Copnell Beverley
Published: May 2018

Aim

To synthesize qualitative research examining the experience of critical care nurses caring for a dying child.

Background

Caring for a dying child remains one of the most difficult aspects of nursing, potentially leading to personal and professional distress. A thorough understanding of this experience for critical care nurses allows for improved delivery of care and support for the nurse.

Design

A qualitative evidence synthesis was undertaken, informed by Thomas and Harden's thematic synthesis methodology.

Data Sources

Studies were retrieved from CINAHL Plus, Scopus, OVID Medline, and Embase, alongside hand‐searching reference lists in February 2016.

Review Methods

Two reviewers independently assessed each study using a multistep screening process and performed critical appraisal of each included study. Data were extracted onto a predeveloped tool and analysed using thematic analysis.

Results

There is a blurred line between the role of the nurse as a person or a professional while caring for the child and family throughout hospitalization and during and after the death. Each stage of care involves tasks and emotions that highlight the changing dominance of the nurse as either a person or professional.

Conclusion

Personal, interpersonal, and contextual factors affect delivery of care and impact of the death of the child on the critical care nurse. Reviewing individual and institutional practices could improve provision of care, interprofessional collaboration, and support provided to staff involved.
Arrival date and microorganisms in barn swallows
Authors: Al Rubaiee Z. , Al Murayati H. , Møller A. P.
Published: May 2018

Migration between breeding sites and winter quarters constitute a major life history strategy in birds. The benefits of such migrations must at least equal the costs for such behavior to evolve and be maintained. We tested whether there was a relationship between abundance and diversity of microorganisms on nest lining feathers and timing of arrival by barn swallowsHirundo rustica. Nest lining feathers are chosen and transported by adult barn swallows to their nests just before and during egg laying, at a time when barn swallows have arrived weeks earlier, implying that any heterogeneity in abundance and diversity of microorganisms on feathers in nests must arise from feather preferences. There was a negative relationship between arrival date and the total number of fledglings showing that early arrival is advantageous. The arrival date of adult barn swallows was significantly positively correlated with the abundance of specific bacteria (Bacillus licheniformis) and positively correlated with the abundance of the fungusTrichoderma reeseiand negatively correlated with the abundance of the fungusMucor circinelloides. Moreover, we found a significant positive relationship between arrival date and mean total number of bacterial colonies in TSA medium. There was a significant negative relationship between arrival date and mean total number of bacterial colonies in FMA medium, and Simpson's diversity index of the abundance of bacteria in FMA medium. Such heterogeneity may arise from some microorganisms being beneficial, others detrimental and yet others benign and of no significant importance. In contrast, there was no significant relationship between arrival date and age of individuals. These findings are consistent with the hypothesis that early arriving barn swallows differ in abundance and diversity of microorganisms from late arriving conspecifics, and that they choose feathers for their nests that differ in terms of microorganisms from those chosen by late arrival individuals.
Preen oil chemical composition encodes individuality, seasonal variation and kinship in black kites Milvus migrans
Authors: Potier Simon , Besnard Malicia M. , Schikorski David , Buatois Bruno , Duriez Olivier , Gabirot Marianne , Leclaire Sarah , Bonadonna Francesco
Published: May 2018

Evidence that bird odour can encode social information that can be used in chemical communication is growing, but is restricted to a few taxonomic groups. Among birds, diurnal raptors (i.e. birds from the Accipitriformes and Falconiformes order) have always been considered as mainly relying on their visual abilities. Although they seem to have a functional sense of smell, whether their odour can convey social information has yet to be determined. Combining gas‐chromatography‐mass‐spectrometry (GCMS) and microsatellite data, we tested whether chemical compounds from preen gland secretions can encode sex, age, individuality, seasonal differences and genetic relatedness in the gregarious accipitriform black kite Milvus migrans. While no differences in preen oil composition were found between age classes, an individual signature was detected. While a seasonal variation was found in both sexes, compounds differ between sexes in the non‐breeding season. Finally, a significant correlation between chemical proximity and genetic proximity was detected in male–male dyads and male–female dyads but not in female–female dyads. Our study provides the first evidence in raptors that preen secretion can convey information that may potentially be used in individual recognition, reproductive synchronization and inbreeding avoidance, and suggests that raptors may rely upon their olfactory abilities more than previously thought. This study opens promising avenues for further studies in raptor chemical communication.
Glycated hemoglobin correlates with arterial stiffness and endothelial dysfunction in patients with resistant hypertension and uncontrolled diabetes mellitus
Authors: Moreno Beatriz , de Faria Ana Paula , Ritter Alessandra Mileni Versuti , Yugar Lara Buonalumi Tacito , Ferreira‐Melo Silvia Elaine , Amorim Rivadavio , Modolo Rodrigo , Fattori André , Yugar‐Toledo Juan Carlos , Coca Antonio , Moreno Heitor
Published: May 2018

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) on flow‐mediated dilation, intima‐media thickness, pulse wave velocity, and left ventricular mass index in patients with resistant hypertension (RHTN) comparing RHTN–controlled diabetes mellitus and RHTN–uncontrolled type 2 diabetes mellitus. Two groups were formed: HbA1c <7.0% (RHTN–controlled diabetes mellitus: n = 98) and HbA1c ≥7.0% (RHTN–uncontrolled diabetes mellitus: n = 122). Intima‐media thickness and flow‐mediated dilation were measured by high‐resolution ultrasound, left ventricular mass index by echocardiography, and arterial stiffness by carotid‐femoral pulse wave velocity. No differences in blood pressure levels were found between the groups but body mass index was higher in patients with RHTN–uncontrolled diabetes mellitus. Endothelial dysfunction and arterial stiffness were worse in patients with RHTN–uncontrolled diabetes mellitus. Intima‐media thickness and left ventricular mass index measurements were similar between the groups. After adjustments, multiple linear regression analyses showed that HbA1c was an independent predictor of flow‐mediated dilation and pulse wave velocity in all patients with RHTN. In conclusion, HbA1c may predict the grade of arterial stiffness and endothelial dysfunction in patients with RHTN, and superimposed uncontrolled diabetes mellitus implicates further impairment of vascular function.
Onychopapillomas: a 68‐case series to determine best surgical procedure and histologic sectioning
Authors: Delvaux C. , Richert B. , Lecerf P. , André J.
Published: May 2018

Background

Onychopapilloma (OP) is a benign longitudinal nail bed tumour usually presenting as longitudinal erythronychia. Evidence‐based recommendations for proper histologic sectioning and definitive surgical management are not available.

Objectives

The aim of this study was threefold. The first was to review the clinical and histopathological features of all OP diagnosed in our department. The second was to identify the most accurate histological technique. The third aim was to determine the most effective surgical procedures by examining recurrence rates and complications over the long term.

Methods

This retrospective analysis collected all patients with OP in the dermatology department of Saint‐Pierre – Brugmann University Hospital (Brussels, Belgium) between January 2007 and March 2017. Clinical findings and type of surgery performed were recorded from medical files and iconographic documents. All slides were reviewed by a dermatopathologist with expertise in nail disease. Longitudinal follow‐up was performed.

Results

A total of 68 patients were included (42 women, 26 men) with a median age of 46 years. Two children were 9 and 11. The histological interpretation was more difficult for the transverse sections than for the longitudinal ones (29.4% vs. 2.2%). The pathological diagnosis of OP was typical in 30.6%, suggestive in 51.6%, slightly suggestive in 12.9% and not contributive in 4.8%. 50 patients had a mean follow‐up of 50 months. 38% recovered completely and 20% recurred. 42% had mild to moderate sequelae.

Conclusions

We report herein the first two paediatric cases. Classical longitudinal excision with careful removal of the lesion from the inferior face of the nail plate seems to be the most accurate surgical technique. In the pathology laboratory, longitudinal sections should be recommended. In our series, a recurrence rate of 20% was observed. This was more frequent when a tangential longitudinal excision was performed.
Problems and challenges of predatory journals
Authors: Richtig G. , Berger M. , Lange‐Asschenfeldt B. , Aberer W. , Richtig E.
Published: May 2018

The companies publishing predatory journals are an emerging problem in the area of scientific literature as they only seek to drain money from authors without providing any customer service for the authors or their readership. These predatory journals try to attract new submissions by aggressive email advertising and high acceptance rates. But in turn, they do not provide proper peer review, and therefore, the scientific quality of submitted articles is questionable. This is important because more and more people, including patients, are reading such journals and rely on the information they provide. Consequently, predatory journals are a serious threat to the integrity of medical science, and it is crucial for scientists, physicians and even patients to be aware of this problem. In this review, we briefly summarize the history of the open access movement, as well as the rise of and roles played by predatory journals. In conclusion, young and inexperienced authors publishing in a predatory journal must be aware of the damage of their reputation, of inadequate peer review processes and that unprofitable journals might get closed and all published articles in that journal might be lost.
Prurigo Activity Score (PAS): validity and reliability of a new instrument to monitor chronic prurigo
Authors: Pölking J. , Zeidler C. , Schedel F. , Osada N. , Augustin M. , Metze D. , Pereira M. P. , Yosipovitch G. , Bernhard J.D. , Ständer S.
Published: May 2018

Background

Currently available tools to monitor patients with chronic prurigo over time focus on pruritus and quality of life parameters, while no instrument objectively assessing the pruriginous lesions is yet available.

Objective

The objective of this study was to develop a physician‐assessed Prurigo Activity Score (PAS), a new tool to monitor the distribution and activity of chronic prurigo lesions and to evaluate its reliability and validity.

Methods

The 7‐item PAS questionnaire as well as validated pruritus intensity scales (VAS, NRS) and a skin‐related quality of life score (DLQI) were completed for 264 patients (172 females, age 61 years) at least twice over a period of 2 years. In addition, a 60‐min test–retest reliability test was performed by four experts for a random sample of 12 patients.

Results

The PAS showed good test‐retest reliability (Cohens κ > 0.61; Cronbach‐alpha > 0.76), ordinal or metric items showed high inter‐rater reliability (Kendalls > 0.61) and items recording the number of lesions correlated significantly to each other (P < 0.001). The highest correlation to external constructs was achieved with DLQI. The feasibility test conducted by four raters indicated the suitability of PAS for tracking chronic prurigo in the clinical setting.

Discussion

The PAS is a useful tool to objectively monitor pruriginous lesions in chronic prurigo patients over time. The sensitivity of change in the PAS score should be analysed in future studies.
Trends in hospitalization rates for psoriasis flares since the introduction of biologics: a time series in France between 2005 and 2015
Authors: Polivka L. , Oubaya N. , Bachelez H. , Paul C. , Richard M.A. , Beylot‐Barry M. , Schmutz J.L. , Beneton N. , Mahé E. , Viguier M. , Chosidow O. , Canoui‐Poitrine F. , Sbidian E. ,   the Groupe de Recherche sur le Psoriasis de la Société Française de Dermatologie
Published: May 2018

Background

In the late 2000s, the introduction of biologics transformed the prognosis for patients with moderate‐to‐severe psoriasis. We hypothesized that treatment with biologics may associate with a reduction in the hospitalization rate for psoriasis flares.

Objective

To analyse changes over time in the hospitalization rate for psoriasis flares.

Methods

We included inpatient stays in any of nine French hospitals between 2005 and 2015 for a psoriasis flare, as documented in the national inpatient database. In two centres, we also analysed data from the individual patients’ electronic medical records.

Results

A total of 3572 stays were included. The introduction of biologics was not associated with a decrease in the number of hospitalizations for a psoriasis flare; on the contrary, we observed a non‐significant increase in the number of hospitalizations (13 hospitalizations for psoriasis flares per quarter per 10 000 beds). In the two‐centre study, the introduction of biologics was associated with a significant increase in the hospitalization of patients receiving topical treatments only (520 hospitalizations per year per 10 000 beds) and those with a first psoriasis flare.

Conclusion

The number of hospitalizations for a psoriasis flare tended to increase between 2005 and 2015. The availability of additional treatment options might have increased patient demand and/or broadened the indications in clinical practice.
Effectiveness of omalizumab in chronic spontaneous urticaria assessed with patient‐reported outcomes: a prospective study
Authors: Ghazanfar M.N. , Holm J.G. , Thomsen S.F.
Published: May 2018

Aim

To examine the effectiveness of omalizumab (anti‐IgE) on symptoms and disease‐related quality of life in chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) and to identify possible patient‐specific factors associated with response to omalizumab in patients with antihistamine refractory CSU.

Methods

Six months prospective trial of omalizumab 300 mg every 4 weeks among patients with CSU from a dermatological university department. The primary outcome was the urticaria activity score in the past week (UAS7) at 3 months.

Results

A total of 117 patients (39 men and 78 women) with a mean age of 42 years were included. The mean baseline UAS7 score was 29.3 points (SD = 10.8), which improved to 11.9 points (SD = 12.9) at 3 months follow‐up, difference = 17.4 points (95% CI: 14.8–19.9), P < 0.0001. Other patient‐reported outcomes (PROs) also improved significantly during 3 months of treatment. No significant further improvement was seen between three and 6 months follow‐up. None of the following patient‐specific factors: sex, age, age of onset of CSU, symptom duration, presence of chronic inducible urticaria (CINDU), comorbidities, positive urticaria HR test, smoking, ethnicity, angio‐oedema, serum total IgE level, CRP, leucocytes, absolute neutrophil count or previous treatment with prednisolone or montelukast were significantly associated with response to omalizumab at 3 months, P > 0.05 for all comparisons. Previous treatment with traditional immunosuppressant drugs (azathioprine, cyclosporine or methotrexate) was associated with poorer treatment response to omalizumab at 3 months, P < 0.001. A strong correlation was seen between different patient‐reported outcomes (PROs) at baseline and 3 months follow‐up. Fifteen patients (12.8%) reported side‐effects of the treatment.

Conclusion

Omalizumab is a highly effective therapy for antihistamine refractory CSU with treatment effects similar to those observed in randomized controlled trials. Validated PROs to assess disease activity, disease control and impairment of quality of life are valuable tools in the clinical management of CSU. Identification of patient‐specific predictors of effect and safety of omalizumab in CSU is still warranted.
Cost‐effectiveness of secukinumab as first biologic treatment, compared with other biologics, for moderate to severe psoriasis in Germany
Authors: Augustin M. , McBride D. , Gilloteau I. , O'Neill C. , Neidhardt K. , Graham C. N.
Published: May 2018

Background

Secukinumab, a fully human monoclonal antibody that selectively neutralizes interleukin 17A, has demonstrated strong and sustained efficacy in adults with moderate to severe psoriasis in clinical trials.

Objective

This analysis compared the cost per responder of secukinumab as first biologic treatment of moderate to severe psoriasis, with adalimumab, infliximab, etanercept and ustekinumab in Germany.

Methods

A 52‐week decision‐tree model was developed. Response to treatment was assessed based on the likelihood of achieving a predefined Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) response to separate the cohort into responders (PASI ≥75), partial responders (PASI 50 to 74) and non‐responders (PASI <50). Responders at week 16 continued initial treatment, whereas partial responders and non‐responders were switched to standard of care, which included methotrexate, cyclosporine, phototherapy and topical corticosteroids. Sustained response was defined as 16‐week response maintained at week 52. A German healthcare system perspective was adopted. Clinical efficacy data were obtained from a mixed‐treatment comparison; 2016 resource unit costs from national sources; and adverse events and discontinuation rates from the literature. We calculated cost per PASI 90 responder over week 16 and week 52, as well as cost per sustained responder between weeks 16 and 52.

Results

Secukinumab had the lowest cost per PASI 90 responder over 16 weeks (€18 026) compared with ustekinumab (€18 080), adalimumab (€23 499), infliximab (€29 599) and etanercept (€34 037). Over 52 weeks, costs per PASI 90 responder ranged from €42 409 (secukinumab) to €70 363 (etanercept). Likewise, secukinumab had the lowest cost per sustained 52‐week PASI 90 responder (€22 690) compared with other biologic treatments. Sensitivity analyses, excluding patient copayments, showed similar results.

Conclusions

First biologic treatment with secukinumab for moderate to severe psoriasis is cost‐effective, with lowest cost per responder compared with other biologic treatments in Germany.
Validation of a visual‐aided questionnaire for the self‐assessment of hidradenitits suppurativa
Authors: Cazzaniga S. , Naldi L. , Damiani G. , Atzori L. , Patta F. , Guidarelli G. , Bettoli V.
Published: May 2018

Background

Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) is a chronic, highly debilitating disease. Few questionnaires have been developed to identify potential HS cases based on simple questions. A visual representation may help in characterising these lesions.

Objective

To develop and validate a visually assisted questionnaire for HS detection.

Methods

This was an observational diagnostic study on a series of patients with a first diagnosis of HS and a corresponding series of age and gender‐matched controls consecutively observed in two Italian centres. The questionnaire was developed based on a critical appraisal of the relevant literature and on expert consensus. Measures of accuracy and reproducibility were assessed.

Results

57 patients with HS and 57 controls were included in the study (mean age 32.9 ± 12.3 years). Based on at least one affirmative answer to the proposed questionnaire items, the accuracy was 95.6%, with a sensitivity of 98.2% and a specificity of 93.0%. Reproducibility was almost perfect on all the tested items (Cohen's kappa ≥ 0.85).

Limitations

The questionnaire was tested only in experimental conditions.

Conclusion

The questionnaire could be a useful tool for HS screening in the general population. Further studies are needed to confirm its performance in a real‐world setting.
Pain Management in the Pediatric Palliative Care Population
Authors: Thomas Rene , Phillips Marcia , Hamilton Rebekah J.
Published: May 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this integrative review was to identify, review, synthesize, and analyze the current literature related to pain management in the pediatric palliative care population from infancy through adolescence.

Methods

The literature was searched for the terms palliative, pediatric, and pain in PubMed, PsycINFO, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied HeALTH LITERATUre (CINAHL) Complete, and Google Scholar. The search was limited to papers in English that had been published from January 1, 2005, to December 31, 2016.

Results

These searches resulted in 918 articles, of which 29 met inclusion criteria. These 29 articles were reviewed and reported. Four broad themes emerged: patient and family experience, pain assessment, pharmacological pain management, and nonpharmaceutical interventions.

Conclusions

Gaps in current research have been identified, such as investigating pediatric pain scales for the palliative care population and new complementary and alternative medical therapy and other interventions. More research is needed to bring innovative pain management interventions to the attention of pediatric caregivers.

Clinical Relevance

A better understanding of current research on pain in the pediatric palliative care population can improve patient care and lead to better research in this specialty field.
Demographic and clinicopathologic distribution of head and neck malignant tumors in pediatric patients from a Brazilian population: A retrospective study
Authors: Arboleda Lady Paola Aristizabal , Hoffmann Iva Loureiro , Cardinalli Izilda Aparecida , Santos‐Silva Alan Roger , de Mendonça Regina Maria Holanda
Published: May 2018

Background

The incidence of pediatric head and neck cancer (PHNC) is increasing worldwide, especially when compared with childhood cancer in general. However, there is still a lack of knowledge about the demographic profile of such patients across the globe. Therefore, the aim of this study was to describe demographic, topographic, and histopathological features of PHNC patients from a single Brazilian institution.

Methods

Medical records were retrospectively reviewed for all cancer cases diagnosed from 1986 to 2016 affecting patients aged 19 years and younger. The demographic variables (age, gender, race), topographic aspects of primary tumors, and histopathological diagnoses were collected and analyzed by descriptive statistics.

Results

Three hundred and sixty‐seven (5.11%) head and neck malignant tumors were found among 7181 pediatric cancers diagnosed in this period. Mean age at diagnosis was 9.35 years with male (65.67%) predominance. Patients between the age group of 10‐14 years presented the higher prevalence of malignant tumors. In terms of race, 73.02% of the patients were white and 9.54% were black. The main affected anatomic site was the neck and lymph nodes (41.42%), followed by nasopharynx (22.89%) and thyroid gland (6.54%). The most common cancer type was lymphoma (52.86%), followed by carcinoma (22.89%), and sarcoma (19.07%). Burkitt lymphoma, nodular sclerosis Hodgkin lymphoma, nasopharyngeal carcinoma, and rhabdomyosarcoma were the most common histopathological diagnoses (16.62%, 13.08%, 12.81%, and 12.81%, respectively).

Conclusion

This study originally demonstrated that lymphomas may be more frequent than carcinomas and sarcomas in Brazilian PHNC patients.
Long distance dispersal in the assembly of floras: A review of progress and prospects in North America
Authors: Harris AJ , Ickert‐Bond Stefanie , Rodríguez Aarón
Published: May 2018

Here, we review progress and prospects to explicitly test for long distance dispersal biogeographic events. Long distance dispersal represents a “jump” across some kind of barrier, such as a topographic feature or a zone of unsuitable climate and may include repeated jumps, or stepping‐stone dispersals. Long distance dispersals were considered integral for explaining the organization of biodiversity at large and small scales by early biogeographers, such as Darwin and Wallace. Darwin, Wallace, and others envisioned that long distance dispersals were predictable events because the vectors for dispersal, such as animals, winds, and currents, behaved in non‐random ways. However, these early biogeographers found that dispersal was hard to observe, and, later, with the advent of the theory of Continental Drift, vicariance became regarded as a better scientific explanation for the arrangement of biodiversity, because it represented a falsifiable hypothesis. Thus, long distance dispersal was reduced to a nuisance parameter in biogeography; a random possibility that could never fully be ruled out in a scenario in which evidence supported vicariance. Today, there is strong interest to more fully integrate long distance dispersal into understanding the assembly and organization of biodiversity on earth. In this review, we discuss progress and prospects for explicitly testing long distance dispersal hypotheses including through uses of molecular, morphological, paleontological, and informatics methods. We focus on hypothesis testing of long distance dispersals involved in the assembly of the flora of North America, which is a robust preliminary study system on account of its extant and extinct biodiversity being well‐catalogued.
Population structure of Guyanagaster necrorhizus supports termite dispersal for this enigmatic fungus
Authors: Koch Rachel A. , Aime M. Catherine
Published: May 2018

Understanding how species accomplish dispersal of their propagules can shed light on how they are adapted for their ecosystem. Guyanagaster necrorhizus is a sequestrate fungus, meaning its dispersal propagules, or spores, are entirely enclosed within a fruiting body, termed a sporocarp. This fungus is most closely related to Armillaria and its allies. While Armillaria species form mushrooms and have forcibly discharged spores, G. necrorhizus spores have lost this ability, and by necessity, must be passively dispersed. However, G. necrorhizus does not possess characteristics of other sequestrate fungi with known dispersal mechanisms. Repeated observations of termites feeding on G. necrorhizus sporocarps, and spores subsequently adhering to their exoskeletons, led to the hypothesis that termites disperse G. necrorhizus spores. To test this hypothesis, we used microsatellite markers and population genetics analyses to understand patterns of clonality and population structure of G. necrorhizus. While Armillaria individuals can spread vegetatively over large areas, high genotypic diversity in G. necrorhizus populations suggests spores are the primary mode of dispersal. Spatial genetic structure analyses show that G. necrorhizus sporocarps within 238 m of each other are more closely related than would be expected by chance and conservative estimates from population assignment tests suggest gene flow no longer occurs between sporocarps separated by 2 km. These distances are consistent with previous studies analysing foraging distances of the termites found associated with G. necrorhizus sporocarps. Termites have rarely been recorded to specifically target fungal sporocarps, making this a potentially novel fungal–insect interaction.
Progressively excluding mammals of different body size affects community and trait structure of ground beetles
Authors: Wang Xiaowei , Steiner Magdalena , Schütz Martin , Vandegehuchte Martijn L. , Risch Anita C.
Published: May 2018

Mammalian grazing induces changes in vegetation properties in grasslands, which can affect a wide variety of other animals including many arthropods. However, the impacts may depend on the type and body size of these mammals. Furthermore, how mammals influence functional trait syndromes of arthropod communities is not well known.

We progressively excluded large (e.g. red deer, chamois), medium (e.g. alpine marmot, mountain hare), and small (e.g. mice) mammals using size‐selective fences in two vegetation types (short‐ and tall‐grass vegetation) of subalpine grasslands. We then assessed how these exclusions affected the community composition and functional traits of ground beetles (Coleoptera, Carabidae), and which vegetation characteristic mediated the observed effects.

Total carabid biomass, the activity densities of carabids with specific traits (i.e. small eyes, short wings), the richness of small‐eyed species and the richness of herbivorous species were significantly higher when certain mammals were excluded compared to when all mammals had access, regardless of vegetation type. Excluding large and medium mammals increased the activity density of herbivorous carabid species, but only in short‐grass vegetation. Similarly, excluding large mammals (ungulates) altered carabid species composition in the short‐, but not in the tall‐grass vegetation. All these responses were related to aboveground plant biomass, but not to plant Shannon diversity or vegetation structural heterogeneity.

Our results indicate that changes in aboveground plant biomass are key drivers of mammalian grazers’ influence on carabids, suggesting that bottom–up forces are important in subalpine grassland systems. The exclusion of ungulates provoked the strongest carabid response. Our results, however, also highlight the ecological significance of smaller herbivorous mammals. Our study furthermore shows that mammalian grazing not only altered carabid community composition, but also caused community‐wide functional trait shifts, which could potentially have a wider impact on species interactions and ecosystem functioning.
Pediatric post‐streptococcal glomerulonephritis: Clinical and laboratory data
Authors: Demircioglu Kılıc Beltinge , Akbalık Kara Mehtap , Buyukcelik Mithat , Balat Ayse
Published: May 2018

Background

Acute post‐streptococcal glomerulonephritis (APSGN) is the most common post‐infectious glomerulonephritis in childhood. The aim of this study was therefore to identify the possible risk factor(s) responsible for decreased glomerular filtration rate (GFR) in APSGN.

Methods

The data of patients followed up with a diagnosis of APSGN in the Pediatric Nephrology Clinic of Gaziantep University Hospital between October 2014 and October 2016 were retrospectively evaluated.

Results

The total number of subjects was 75 (male/female, 42/33) with a mean age of 8.20 ± 3.25 years. The most common presentations were edema (86.7%), macroscopic hematuria (82.7%) and hypertension (73.3%, n = 55). On laboratory examination, 28 children (37.3%) had hypoalbuminemia, 58 (77.3%) had proteinuria, 20 (26.7%) had increased C‐reactive protein (CRP), while 74 (98.7%) and 12 (16%) had decreased complement (C)3 and C4, respectively. The number of children with GFR <90 mL/min/1.73 m2 was 22 (29.3%). The risk of decreased GFR was significantly higher in patients with increased CRP (P = 0.001; OR, 3.58), hypoalbuminemia (P = 0.006; OR, 4.83), and decreased C4 (P = 0.010; OR, 11.53). Additionally, white blood cell (WBC) count, neutrophil count, and neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (NLR) were significantly higher (P = 0.02, P = 0.006, P = 0.004, respectively) in patients with low GFR.

Conclusions

Although the prognosis of APSGN in children is good, severe systemic complications and renal failure may develop during the follow‐up period. Decreased C4, presence of hypoalbuminemia, and increased inflammatory markers (WBC, CRP, neutrophil count and NLR) might be possible risk factors for severity of renal involvement. Decreased C4, in particular, may be a risk factor for decreased GFR in those children.
The Role of Dynamic m6A RNA Methylation in Photobiology
Authors: Robinson Myles , Shah Palak , Cui Yan‐Hong , He Yu‐Ying
Published: May 2018

N6‐methyladenosine (m6A) is the most abundant internal RNA modification among numerous post‐transcriptional modifications identified in eukaryotic mRNA. m6A modification of RNA is catalyzed by the “writer” m6A methyltransferase enzyme complex, consisting of METTL3, METTL14, WTAP and KIAA1429. The m6A modification is reversible and can be removed by “eraser” m6A demethylase enzymes, namely, FTO and ALKBH5. The biological function of m6A modification on RNA is carried out by RNA‐binding effector proteins called “readers.” Varied functions of the reader proteins regulate mRNA metabolism by affecting stability, translation, splicing or nuclear export. The epitranscriptomic gene regulation by m6A RNA methylation regulates various pathways, which contribute to basic cellular processes essential for cell maintenance, development and cell fate, and affect response to external stimuli and stressors. In this review, we summarize the recent advances in the regulation and function of m6A RNA methylation, with a focus on UV‐induced DNA damage response and the circadian clock machinery. Insights into the mechanisms of m6A RNA regulation and post‐transcriptional regulatory function in these biological processes may facilitate the development of new preventive and therapeutic strategies for various diseases related to dysregulation of UV damage response and circadian rhythm.
An Adaptation of the Original Fresno Test to Measure Evidence‐Based Practice Competence in Pediatric Bedside Nurses
Authors: Laibhen‐Parkes Natasha , Kimble Laura P. , Melnyk Bernadette Mazurek , Sudia Tanya , Codone Susan
Published: May 2018

Purpose

Instruments used to assess evidence‐based practice (EBP) competence in nurses have been subjective, unreliable, or invalid. The Fresno test was identified as the only instrument to measure all the steps of EBP with supportive reliability and validity data. However, the items and psychometric properties of the original Fresno test are only relevant to measure EBP with medical residents. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to describe the development of the adapted Fresno test for pediatric nurses, and provide preliminary validity and reliability data for its use with Bachelor of Science in Nursing–prepared pediatric bedside nurses.

Methods

General adaptations were made to the original instrument's case studies, item content, wording, and format to meet the needs of a pediatric nursing sample. The scoring rubric was also modified to complement changes made to the instrument. Content and face validity, and intrarater reliability of the adapted Fresno test were assessed during a mixed‐methods pilot study conducted from October to December 2013 with 29 Bachelor of Science in Nursing–prepared pediatric nurses.

Results

Validity data provided evidence for good content and face validity. Intrarater reliability estimates were high.

Linking Evidence to Action

The adapted Fresno test presented here appears to be a valid and reliable assessment of EBP competence in Bachelor of Science in Nursing–prepared pediatric nurses. However, further testing of this instrument is warranted using a larger sample of pediatric nurses in diverse settings. This instrument can be a starting point for evaluating the impact of EBP competence on patient outcomes.
Adolescent Girls’ Experiences With Sexual Pressure, Coercion, and Victimization: #MeToo
Authors: Morrison‐Beedy Dianne , Grove Linsey
Published: May 2018

Background

The #MeToo social media campaign in the United States has highlighted what is a pervasive problem in many cultures—the sexual intimidation and victimization of women by men, especially those in roles of authority.

Methods

In a study of 735 girls, ages 15–19 years, enrolled in a sexual risk reduction randomized controlled trial, we captured baseline data using audio‐computer assisted self‐interviews to increase validity and reliability of responses to questions regarding such behaviors.

Results

Despite their age, one‐half of these girls reported being coerced into sex acts (excluding intercourse) with 1 in 5 reporting such victimization by a man who used his position of authority. Alarmingly, 12–28% of girls reported being forced into penetrative sex acts against their will. Far too many girls reported they had had multiple episodes of such violence.

Linking Evidence to Action

It is clear that this study captures a common, but minimally documented, threat faced by adolescent girls ranging from men pressuring them to engage in sex activities through the use of victimization, intimidation, or provision of substances to underage girls to gain compliance. Using such evidence to enhance and tailor sexual risk reduction, health, safety, and communication interventions for both males and females is essential. Identifying triggers to at‐risk situations, providing skill building in communication, negotiation and refusal skills, as well as clearly discussing consent issues among both genders are important components in evidence‐based interventions if we are to impact positively the next generation to curtail sexual pressure, coercion, and violence.
Need to improve awareness and treatment compliance in high-risk patients for diabetic complications in Nepal
Authors: Sapkota Raju P , Upadhyaya Tirthalal , Gurung Govind , Parker Mike , Raman Rajiv , Pardhan Shahina
Published: May 2018

Objective/introduction

It is known that knowledge, awareness, and practice influence diabetic control. We compared factors pertaining to healthy lifestyle (exercising, avoiding smoking), self-help (attending appointments, following treatment regimens), and diabetic awareness in high-risk patients for diabetic complications, specifically, those on insulin versus non-insulin treatment, and also those with a longer diabetic duration (≥5 years) versus a shorter duration.

Methods

200 consecutive patients with type 2 diabetes (52.0±11.6 years) attending diabetic clinic at a referral hospital in Nepal were recruited. A structured questionnaire explored non-clinical parameters including age, gender, diabetic duration, awareness about diabetes control, self-help, and lifestyle. Clinical data were also measured: HbA1c, fasting blood sugar (FBS), blood pressure, and treatment type (insulin, diet/tablet).

Results

A significantly higher proportion of patients on insulin (vs non-insulin) or with diabetic duration ≥5 years (vs <5 years) self-reported not doing regular exercise, forgetting to take medicine, and not knowing whether their diabetes was controlled (p≤0.005). HbA1c/FBS levels were significantly higher for patients on insulin or with a longer diabetic duration (p≤0.001). 92% of those on insulin (vs 31% on non-insulin) and 91% with diabetic duration ≥5 years (vs 28% of <5 years) self-reported to seeking medical help due to episodes of uncontrolled blood sugar in the last year (p<0.001).

Conclusion

Poor self-help/lifestyle and reduced knowledge/awareness about diabetic control was found in patients on insulin or with longer diabetic duration. This is a worrying finding as these patients are already at high risk for developing diabetic complications. The findings highlight need for targeting this more vulnerable group and provide more support/diabetic educational tools.
Autoantibodies in chronic hepatitis C virus infection: impact on clinical outcomes and extrahepatic manifestations
Authors: Gilman Andrew J , Le An K , Zhao Changqing , Hoang Joseph , Yasukawa Lee A , Weber Susan C , Vierling John M , Nguyen Mindie H
Published: May 2018

Goals

To examine the role that autoantibodies (auto-abs) play in chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) regarding demographics, presence of extrahepatic manifestations and long-term outcomes in a large US cohort.

Background

Auto-abs have been reported to be prevalent in patients with chronic HCV infection, but data on the natural history of these patients are limited.

Study

The study included 1556 consecutive patients with HCV without concurrent HIV and/or HBV who had testing for antinuclear antibody (ANA), antimitochondrial antibody (AMA), antismooth muscle antibody (ASMA) and/or antiliver kidney microsomal antibody (LKM). Primary outcomes included development of cirrhosis, hepatic decompensations, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), mortality and/or sustained virological response (SVR) to antiviral therapy.

Results

A total of 388 patients tested positive for any auto-ab (ANA 21.8%, ASMA 13.3%, AMA 2.2% and LKM 1.2%). Patients who tested positive versus negative were more likely to be women (29.3% vs 20.9%, p<0.001) and less likely to achieve SVR with most treated patients receiving interferon-based therapies (37.2% vs 47.1%, p=0.031). There was no difference between groups for baseline laboratory data, disease state or rate of extrahepatic manifestations (42.8% vs 45.0%, p=0.44). Kaplan-Meier analysis revealed no statistically significant difference between groups for the 10-year development of cirrhosis, hepatic decompensations, HCC nor survival. Furthermore, auto-ab positivity was only found to be a predictor for a lower rate of SVR on multivariate analysis (adjusted OR=1.61, 95 %  CI 1.00 to 2.58, p=0.048).

Conclusions

In our cohort, auto-ab positivity was common, especially in women, and predicted a lower rate of SVR but otherwise had no impact on the natural history of chronic HCV or presence of extrahepatic manifestations.