bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Working together in dementia research: reflections on the EVIDEM programme
Authors: Manthorpe Jill , Iliffe Steve , Goodman Claire , Drennan Vari , Warner James
Published: December 2013

Purpose

– The purpose of this case study is to report and reflect on a recently completed five-year programme of research on dementia care and practice in England. This EVIDEM programme of research was specifically designed to influence services for people with dementia and their carers; several additional lessons emerged along the way that might shape broader research on ageing that includes older people and those who work with them.

Design/methodology/approach

– This case study of the EVIDEM programme presents and discusses four lessons learned by the core research team – covering the implications of newly basing research inside the NHS, multi-disciplinary working across academic disciplines, communicating with diverse practitioners, and the impact of patient and public involvement on the research process. The paper reflects on communication between the NHS and academic communities, and the creation of new research capacity in dementia.

Findings

– Collaborative working between academic disciplines is possible, given willing researchers and commitment to participating in frequent opportunities for dialogue and learning. In research in dementia these foundations are probably essential, given the growing scale of the problem and the small size of the research community, if we are to have a beneficial impact on people's lives. Lay expertise is a necessary ingredient of research programmes, not just for its co-design power, but for its ability to redesign projects when major problems arise.

Research limitations/implications

– This case study reports the subjective views of the research collaborators. While this raises the potential for bias, it offers an “insider” perspective of the research process and engagement in research leadership.

Originality/value

– There are few reflections on research processes and management and this case study may be useful to academic researchers, to those working in the NHS with responsibility for research in different forms, and to older people's organisations who wish to hear of the value of older people's engagement in research advisory activity.
Rapid microarray‐based DNA genoserotyping of Escherichia coli
Authors: Geue Lutz , Monecke Stefan , Engelmann Ines , Braun Sascha , Slickers Peter , Ehricht Ralf
Published: December 2013

In this study, an improvement in the oligonucleotide‐based DNA microarray for the genoserotyping of Escherichia coli is presented. Primer and probes for additional 70 O antigen groups were developed. The microarray was transferred to a new platform, the ArrayStrip format, which allows high through‐put tests in 96‐well formats and fully automated microarray analysis. Thus, starting from a single colony, it is possible to determine within a few hours and a single experiment, 94 of the over 180 known O antigen groups as well as 47 of the 53 different H antigens. The microarray was initially validated with a set of defined reference strains that had previously been serotyped by conventional agglutination in various reference centers. For further validation of the microarray, 180 clinical E. coli isolates of human origin (from urine samples, blood cultures, bronchial secretions, and wound swabs) and 53 E. coli isolates from cattle, pigs, and poultry were used. A high degree of concordance between the results of classical antibody‐based serotyping and DNA‐based genoserotyping was demonstrated during validation of the new 70 O antigen groups as well as for the field strains of human and animal origin. Therefore, this oligonucleotide array is a diagnostic tool that is user‐friendly and more efficient than classical serotyping by agglutination. Furthermore, the tests can be performed in almost every routine lab and are easily expanded and standardized.
The use of archived tags in retrospective genetic analysis of fish
Authors: Bonanomi Sara , Overgaard Therkildsen Nina , Berg Hedeholm Rasmus , Hemmer‐Hansen Jakob , Nielsen Einar E.
Published: December 2013

Collections of historical tissue samples from fish (e.g. scales and otoliths) stored in museums and fisheries institutions are precious sources of DNA for conducting retrospective genetic analysis. However, in some cases, only external tags used for documentation of spatial dynamics of fish populations have been preserved. Here, we test the usefulness of fish tags as a source of DNA for genetic analysis. We extract DNA from historical tags from cod collected in Greenlandic waters between 1950 and 1968. We show that the quantity and quality of DNA recovered from tags is comparable to DNA from archived otoliths from the same individuals. Surprisingly, levels of cross‐contamination do not seem to be significantly higher in DNA from external (tag) than internal (otolith) sources. Our study therefore demonstrates that historical tags can be a highly valuable source of DNA for retrospective genetic analysis of fish.
Nursing Diagnosis of Grieving: Content Validity in Perinatal Loss Situations
Authors: Paloma‐Castro Olga , Romero‐Sánchez José Manuel , Paramio‐Cuevas Juan Carlos , María Pastor‐Montero Sonia , Castro‐Yuste Cristina , Frandsen Anna J , Albar‐Marín María Jesús , Bas‐Sarmiento Pilar , Moreno‐Corral Luis Javier
Published: December 2013

Purpose

To validate the content of the NANDA‐I nursing diagnosis of grieving in situations of perinatal loss.

Methods

Using the Fehring's model, 208 Spanish experts were asked to assess the adequacy of the defining characteristics and other manifestations identified in the literature for cases of perinatal loss.

Findings

The content validity index was 0.867. Twelve of the 18 defining characteristics were validated, seven as major and five as minor. From the manifestations proposed, “empty inside” was considered as major.

Conclusion

The nursing diagnosis of grieving fits in content to the cases of perinatal loss according to experts.

Implications for Nursing Practice

The results have provided evidence to support the use of the diagnosis in care plans for said clinical situation.
Close the gap for vision: The key is to invest on coordination
Authors: Hsueh Ya‐seng (Arthur) , Dunt David , Anjou Mitchell D , Boudville Andrea , Taylor Hugh
Published: December 2013

Objective

The study aims to estimate costs required for coordination and case management activities support access to treatment for the three most common eye conditions among Indigenous Australians, cataract, refractive error and diabetic retinopathy.

Design

Coordination activities were identified using in‐depth interviews, focus groups and face‐to‐face consultations. Data were collected at 21 sites across Australia. The estimation of costs used salary data from relevant government websites and was organised by diagnosis and type of coordination activity.

Setting

Urban and remote regions of Australia.

Interventions

Needs‐based provision support services to facilitate access to eye care for cataract, refractive error and diabetic retinopathy to Indigenous Australians.

Main outcome measures

Cost (AUD$ in 2011) of equivalent full time (EFT) coordination staff.

Results

The annual coordination workforce required for the three eye conditions was 8.3 EFT staff per 10 000 Indigenous Australians. The annual cost of eye care coordination workforce is estimated to be AUD$21 337 012 in 2011.

Conclusions

This innovative, ‘activity‐based’ model identified the workforce required to support the provision of eye care for Indigenous Australians and estimated their costs. The findings are of clear value to government funders and other decision makers. The model can potentially be used to estimate staffing and associated costs for other Indigenous and non‐Indigenous health needs.
Issues that impact on Aboriginal Health Workers' and Registered Nurses' provision of diabetes health care in rural and remote health settings
Authors: King Meri , King Lindy , Willis Eileen , Munt Rebecca , Semmens Frith
Published: December 2013

Type 2 diabetes mellitus is an established health problem for Indigenous Australians. One strategy to address this issue is to educate health professionals in diabetes management and education.

Objective

The objective of this paper is to identify important issues that compromise the clinical practice of rural and remote Aboriginal health workers (AHWs) and registered nurses (RNs) who undertook an accredited Australian Diabetes Educators Association diabetes course and to suggest strategies to improve practice.

Design

The design used a qualitative approach and discussion schedule to elicit responses.

Setting

The setting involved two Aboriginal community controlled and seven mainstream health services in the Far Western region of New South Wales.

Participants

The participants were experienced diabetes educators (RNs and AHWs), managers and students currently enrolled in the course (n = 17).

Results

The results indicated issues that compromise diabetes practice and identified strategies to improve practice. Issues were: the confusing funding practices by health providers, the duplication of health services, the lack of recognition of diabetes qualifications and the transient nature of Indigenous people. Strategies included the need for: continuous dedicated diabetes health funding, a role clarification for diabetes educators, strategic diabetes planning and the importance of diabetes educators working in partnership.

Conclusion

The conclusion from this study indicates that if the delivery of diabetes health services to Indigenous Australians is to improve it is necessary to address these identified issues.
Psychometric evaluation of a Korean version of the 8‐item Medication Adherence Scale in rural older adults with hypertension
Authors: Shin Dong‐Soo , Kim Chun‐Ja
Published: December 2013

Objective

To examine the psychometric properties of a structured self‐reported 8‐item Korean‐version Morisky Medication Adherence Scale (MMAS‐K) among rural older adults with hypertension.

Design

Cross‐sectional descriptive survey.

Setting

A rural community comprising three primary health care posts in Gangwon Province, South Korea.

Participants

Ninety‐two older adults with hypertension who received treatment at primary health care posts.

Main outcome measures

Participants completed an 8‐item MMAS‐K questionnaire, and the community health practitioners manually measured blood pressure. Factor analysis and correlation coefficient for validity and the Kuder–Richardson alpha coefficient for reliability of the MMAS‐K were used, while the association between medication adherence and blood pressure control was determined using Fisher's exact test.

Results

Internal consistency reliability was acceptable with a coefficient alpha of 0.71. The factor analysis of construct validity identified two dimensions of the 8‐item MMAS‐K, explaining 52.22% of the total variance. There was a high correlation between the 8‐item MMAS‐K and the original 4‐item MMAS (r = 0.874), indicating that these scales measure theoretically related constructs for convergent validity. There was a significant association between the 8‐item MMAS‐K score and blood pressure control (P < 0.05), indicating that, for the known‐groups validity, the controlled blood pressure group was more likely to have higher rate of medication adherence than the poor‐control group.

Conclusions

The findings indicate a positive association between medication adherence and blood pressure control. The 8‐item MMAS‐K possesses adequate validity and reliability among rural older adults with hypertension.
Prevalence of vision impairment and refractive error in school children in Ba Ria – Vung Tau province, Vietnam
Authors: Paudel Prakash , Ramson Prasidh , Naduvilath Thomas , Wilson David , Phuong Ha Thanh , Ho Suit M , Giap Nguyen V
Published: December 2013

Background

To assess the prevalence of vision impairment and refractive error in school children 12–15 years of age in Ba Ria – Vung Tau province, Vietnam.

Design

Prospective, cross‐sectional study.

Participants

2238 secondary school children.

Methods

Subjects were selected based on stratified multistage cluster sampling of 13 secondary schools from urban, rural and semi‐urban areas. The examination included visual acuity measurements, ocular motility evaluation, cycloplegic autorefraction, and examination of the external eye, anterior segment, media and fundus.

Main Outcome Measures

Visual acuity and principal cause of vision impairment.

Results

The prevalence of uncorrected and presenting visual acuity ≤6/12 in the better eye were 19.4% (95% confidence interval, 12.5–26.3) and 12.2% (95% confidence interval, 8.8–15.6), respectively. Refractive error was the cause of vision impairment in 92.7%, amblyopia in 2.2%, cataract in 0.7%, retinal disorders in 0.4%, other causes in 1.5% and unexplained causes in the remaining 2.6%. The prevalence of vision impairment due to myopia in either eye (–0.50 diopter or greater) was 20.4% (95% confidence interval, 12.8–28.0), hyperopia (≥2.00 D) was 0.4% (95% confidence interval, 0.0–0.7) and emmetropia with astigmatism (≥0.75 D) was 0.7% (95% confidence interval, 0.2–1.2). Vision impairment due to myopia was associated with higher school grade and increased time spent reading and working on a computer.

Conclusions

Uncorrected refractive error, particularly myopia, among secondary school children in Vietnam is a major public health problem. School‐based eye health initiative such as refractive error screening is warranted to reduce vision impairment.
Disparities in cataract surgery between Aboriginal and non‐Aboriginal people in New South Wales, Australia
Authors: Randall Deborah A , Reinten Tracie , Maher Louise , Lujic Sanja , Stewart Jessica , Keay Lisa , Leyland Alastair H , Jorm Louisa R
Published: December 2013

Background

To investigate variation in rates of cataract surgery in New South Wales, Australia by area of residence for Aboriginal and non‐Aboriginal adults.

Design

Observational data linkage study of hospital admissions.

Participants

Two hundred eighty‐nine thousand six hundred forty‐six New South Wales residents aged 30 years and over admitted to New South Wales hospitals for 444 551 cataract surgery procedures between 2001 and 2008.

Methods

Analysis of linked routinely collected hospital data using direct standardization and multilevel negative binomial regression models accounting for clustering of individuals within Statistical Local Areas.

Main Outcome Measures

Age‐standardized cataract surgery rates and adjusted rate ratios.

Results

Aboriginal people had lower rates of cataract procedures than non‐Aboriginal people of the same age and sex, living in the same Statistical Local Area (adjusted rate ratio 0.71, 95% confidence interval 0.68–0.75). There was significant variation in cataract surgery rates across Statistical Local Areas for both Aboriginal and non‐Aboriginal people, with the disparity greater in major cities and less disadvantaged areas. Rates of surgery were lower for Aboriginal than non‐Aboriginal people in most Statistical Local Areas, but in a few, the rates were similar or higher for Aboriginal people.

Conclusions

Aboriginal people in New South Wales received less cataract surgery than non‐Aboriginal people, despite evidence of higher cataract rates. This disparity was greatest in urban and wealthier areas. Higher rates of surgery for Aboriginal people observed in some specific locations are likely to reflect the availability of public ophthalmology services, targeted services for Aboriginal people and higher demand for surgery in these populations.
A divergence of opinion: how those involved in child and family social work are responding to the challenges of the Internet and social media
Authors: Simpson Jennifer E.
Published: December 2013

This discussion paper suggests that there is possibly a divergence of opinion taking place within the field of child and family social work and that the stated positions are influencing how practitioners identify and deal with risks and opportunities afforded by the Internet and social media. The suggested divergence is examined and the conclusion drawn is that what is taking place mirrors the fact that the introduction of any new technology inevitably brings with it division and debate. In seeking to understand the reaction to digital technology, consideration is given to a series of wider social discourses on childhood and risk, which includes the controversial notion that the profession is a harbinger of moral panic and that the management of risk has been broadened from child protection to child safety. The discussion paper concludes by calling for child and family social work practitioners to have a balanced debate that needs to be informed not only by current research but also by an open and honest discussion about personal use and an acknowledgement that there will be difficult moral and ethical questions to work through.
Hard and soft tissue changes around implants installed in regular‐sized and reduced alveolar bony ridges. An experimental study in dogs
Authors: Baffone Gabriele , Lang Niklaus P. , Pantani Fabio , Favero Giovanni , Ferri Mauro , Botticelli Daniele
Published: December 2013

Objective

To study bony and soft tissue changes at implants installed in alveolar bony ridges of different widths.

Material and methods

In 6 Labrador dogs, the mandibular premolars and first molars were extracted, and a buccal defect was created in the left side at the third and fourth premolars by removing the buccal bone and the inter‐radicular and interdental septa. Three months after tooth extraction, full‐thickness mucoperiosteal flaps were elevated, and implants were installed, two at the reduced (test) and two at the regular‐sized ridges (control). Narrow or wide abutments were affixed to the implants. After 3 months, biopsies were harvested, and ground sections prepared for histological evaluation.

Results

A higher vertical buccal bony crest resorption was found at the test (1.5 ± 0.7 mm and 1.0 ± 0.7 mm) compared to the control implants (1.0 ± 0.5 mm and 0.7 ± 0.4 mm), for both wide and narrow abutment sites. A higher horizontal alveolar resorption was identified at the control compared to the test implants. The difference was significant for narrow abutment sites. The peri‐implant mucosa was more coronally positioned at the narrow abutment, in the test sites, while for the control sites, the mucosal adaptation was more coronal at the wide abutment sites. These differences, however, did not reach statistical significance.

Conclusions

Implants installed in regular‐sized alveolar ridges had a higher horizontal, but a lower vertical buccal bony crest resorption compared to implants installed in reduced alveolar ridges. Narrow abutments in reduced ridges as well as wide abutments in regular‐sized ridges yielded less soft tissue recession compared to their counterparts.
A systematic review and meta‐analysis of naltrexone implants for the treatment of opioid dependence
Authors: Larney Sarah , Gowing Linda , Mattick Richard P. , Farrell Michael , Hall Wayne , Degenhardt Louisa
Published: December 2013

Introduction and Aims

Naltrexone implants are used to treat opioid dependence, but their safety and efficacy remain poorly understood. We systematically reviewed the literature to assess the safety and efficacy of naltrexone implants for treating opioid dependence.

Design and Methods

Studies were eligible if they compared naltrexone implants with another intervention or placebo. Examined outcomes were induction to treatment, retention in treatment, opioid and non‐opioid use, adverse events, non‐fatal overdose and mortality. Quality of the evidence was assessed using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation approach. Data from randomised studies were combined using meta‐analysis. Data from non‐randomised studies were presented narratively.

Results

Five randomised trials (n = 576) and four non‐randomised studies (n = 8358) were eligible for review. The quality of the evidence ranged from moderate to very low. Naltrexone implants were superior to placebo implants [risk ratio (RR): 0.57; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.48, 0.68; k = 2] and oral naltrexone (RR: 0.57; 95% CI 0.47, 0.70; k = 2) in suppressing opioid use. No difference in opioid use was observed between naltrexone implants and methadone maintenance (standardised mean difference: −0.33; 95% CI −0.93, 0.26; k = 1); however, this finding was based on low‐quality evidence from one study.

Discussion

The evidence on safety and efficacy of naltrexone implants is limited in quantity and quality, and the evidence has little clinical utility in settings where effective treatments for opioid dependence are used.

Conclusion

Better designed research is needed to establish the safety and efficacy of naltrexone implants. Until such time, their use should be limited to clinical trials. [Larney S, Gowing L, Mattick RP, Farrell M, Hall W, Degenhardt L. A systematic review and meta‐analysis of naltrexone implants for the treatment of opioid dependence. Drug Alcohol Rev 2014;33:115–128]
Retrospective genetic monitoring of the threatened Yellow marsh saxifrage (Saxifraga hirculus) reveals genetic erosion but provides valuable insights for conservation strategies
Authors: Beatty Gemma E. , Reid Neil , Provan Jim
Published: December 2013

Aim

Retrospective genetic monitoring, comparing genetic diversity of extant populations with historical samples, can provide valuable and often unique insights into evolutionary processes informing conservation strategies. The Yellow marsh saxifrage (Saxifraga hirculus) is listed as ‘critically endangered’ in Ireland with only two extant populations. We quantified genetic changes over time and identified genotypes in extant populations that could be used as founders for reintroductions to sites where the species is extinct.

Location

Ireland.

Methods

Samples were obtained from both locations where the species is currently found, including the most threatened site at the Garron Plateau, Co. Antrim, which held only 13 individuals during 2011. Herbarium samples covering the period from 1886 to 1957 were obtained including plants from the same area as the most threatened population, as well as three extinct populations. In total, 422 individuals (319 present‐day and 103 historical) were genotyped at six microsatellite loci. Species distribution modelling was used to identify areas of potentially suitable habitat for reintroductions.

Results

Level of phenotypic diversity within the most threatened population was significantly lower in the present‐day compared with historical samples but levels of observed heterozygosity and number of alleles, whilst reduced, did not differ significantly. However, Bayesian clustering analysis suggested gradual lineage replacement over time. All three measures of genetic diversity were generally lower at the most threatened population compared with the more substantial extant populations in Co. Mayo. Species distribution modelling suggested that habitat at one site where the species is extinct may be suitable for reintroduction.

Main conclusions

The dominant genetic lineage in the most threatened population is rare elsewhere; thus, care needs to be taken when formulating any potential reintroduction programme. Our findings highlight both the need for genetic monitoring of threatened populations, but also for its swift implementation before levels of diversity become critically low.
Atorvastatin plus omega‐3 fatty acid ethyl ester decreases very‐low‐density lipoprotein triglyceride production in insulin resistant obese men
Authors: Ng T. W. K. , Ooi E. M. M. , Watts G. F. , Chan D. C. , Barrett P. H. R.
Published: December 2013

Aim

To test the effect of atorvastatin (ATV) and ATV plus ω‐3 FAEEs on VLDL‐TG metabolism in obese, insulin resistant men.

Methods

We carried out a 6‐week randomized, placebo‐controlled study to examine the effect of ATV (40 mg/day) and ATV plus ω‐3 FAEEs (4 g/day) on VLDL‐TG metabolism in 36 insulin resistant obese men. VLDL‐TG kinetics were determined using d5‐glycerol, gas chromatography–mass spectrometry and compartmental modelling.

Results

Compared with the placebo, ATV significantly decreased VLDL‐TG concentration (−40%, p < 0.001) by increasing VLDL‐TG fractional catabolic rate (FCR) (+47%, p < 0.01). ATV plus ω‐3 FAEEs lowered VLDL‐TG concentration to a greater degree compared with placebo (−46%, p < 0.001) or ATV monotherapy (−13%, p = 0.04). This was achieved by a reduction in VLDL‐TG production rate (PR) compared with placebo (−32%, p = 0.008) or ATV (−20%, p = 0.03) as well as a reciprocal increase in VLDL‐TG FCR (+42%, p < 0.05) compared with placebo.

Conclusion

In insulin resistant, dyslipidaemic, obese men, ATV improves VLDL‐TG metabolism by increasing VLDL‐TG FCR. The addition of 4 g/day ω‐3 FAEE to statin therapy provides further TG‐lowering by lowering VLDL‐TG PR.
Coronary Flow Reserve Predicts Cardiopulmonary Fitness in Patients with Coronary Artery Disease Independently of Systolic and Diastolic Function
Authors: Snoer Martin , Olsen Rasmus Huan , Monk‐Hansen Tea , Pedersen Lene Roerholm , Haugaard Steen B. , Dela Flemming , Prescott Eva
Published: December 2013

Aims

Despite revascularization and optimal medical treatment, patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) have reduced exercise capacity. In the absence of coronary artery stenosis, coronary flow reserve (CFR) is a measure of coronary microvascular function, and a marker of future poor outcome in CAD patients. The aim of this study was to examine the relationship among CFR, systolic and diastolic function, peripheral vascular function, and cardiopulmonary fitness in CAD patients.

Methods and Results

Forty patients with median left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) 49 (interquartile 46–55) with documented CAD without significant left anterior descending artery (LAD) stenosis underwent cardiorespiratory exercise test with measurement of VO2peak, digital measurement of endothelial function and arterial stiffness, and an echocardiography with measurement of LVEF using the biplane Simpson model, mitral early (E) and late (A) inflow velocities, and tissue Doppler diastolic (e′) and systolic (s′) velocities. Peak coronary flow velocity (CFV) was measured in the LAD using pulse‐wave Doppler. CFR was calculated as the ratio between peak CFV at rest and during vasodilator stress. Median CFR was 2.22 (1.90–2.62) and VO2peak was 21.8 (17.6–25.5). VO2peak correlated significantly with CFR (r = 0.57, P < 0.001), E/e′ (r = −0.35, P = 0.04), and s′ (r = 0.41, P = 0.01) and with LVEF (r = 0.35, P = 0.03). CFR remained independently associated with VO2peak after adjustment for systolic and diastolic function.

Conclusions

Coronary flow reserve measured noninvasively predicts cardiopulmonary fitness independently of resting systolic and diastolic function in CAD patients, indicating that cardiac output during maximal exercise is dependent on the ability of the coronary circulation to adapt to the higher metabolic demands of the myocardium.
Morphological and physiological properties of enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP)‐expressing wide‐field amacrine cells in the ChAT‐EGFP mouse line
Authors: Knop Gabriel C. , Pottek Mark , Monyer Hannah , Weiler Reto , Dedek Karin
Published: December 2013

Mammalian retinas comprise a variety of interneurons, among which amacrine cells represent the largest group, with more than 30 different cell types each exhibiting a rather distinctive morphology and carrying out a unique function in retinal processing. However, many amacrine types have not been studied systematically because, in particular, amacrine cells with large dendritic fields, i.e. wide‐field amacrine cells, have a low abundance and are therefore difficult to target. Here, we used a transgenic mouse line expressing the coding sequence of enhanced green fluorescent protein under the promoter for choline acetyltransferase (ChAT‐EGFP mouse) and characterized a single wide‐field amacrine cell population monostratifying in layer 2/3 of the inner plexiform layer (WA‐S2/3 cell). Somata of WA‐S2/3 cells are located either in the inner nuclear layer or are displaced to the ganglion cell layer and exhibit a low cell density. Using immunohistochemistry, we show that WA‐S2/3 cells are presumably GABAergic but may also release acetylcholine as their somata are weakly positive for ChAT. Two‐photon‐guided patch‐clamp recordings from intact retinas revealed WA‐S2/3 cells to be ON‐OFF cells with a homogenous receptive field even larger than the dendritic field. The large spatial extent of the receptive field is most likely due to the extensive homologous and heterologous coupling among WA‐S2/3 cells and to other amacrine cells, respectively, as indicated by tracer injections. In summary, we have characterized a novel type of GABAergic ON‐OFF wide‐field amacrine cell which is ideally suited to providing long‐range inhibition to ganglion cells due to its strong coupling.
Time‐dependent progression from the acute to chronic phases in atopic dermatitis induced by epicutaneous allergen stimulation in NC/Nga mice
Authors: Kim Ji‐Yun , Jeong Mi Sook , Park Mi Kyung , Lee Mi‐Kyung , Seo Seong Jun
Published: December 2013

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a complicated skin condition influenced by genetic background and environmental factors. In this study, we applied Dermatophagoides farinae body extract (DfE) to the barrier‐disrupted skin of NC/Nga mice twice a week for 8 weeks to identify the clinical and immunological factors in AD progression. Repeated application of the DfE to the skin of NC/Nga mice showed the similar consequences for the natural course of progression in human AD, histologically and immunologically. We confirmed that the AD‐like skin lesions in NC/Nga mice did not last for the whole period of our experiment in spite of repeated topical applications of DfE twice a week. Topical DfE stimulation increased the skin mRNA expressions of Th1‐, Th2‐ and Th17‐related cytokines in the acute phase. The expression patterns of IL‐4 and IL‐13 in splenic T cells and skin lesions were consistent with the time course alterations of clinical features of AD‐like skin symptoms. We also showed that there was a remission phase either just before or right after the chronic phase in this experimental model. Interestingly, splenic T‐cell‐derived IL‐5 expression began to increase in the chronic phase, while skin‐derived IL‐5 mRNA expression increased in the acute phase. In conclusion, our results suggest that we should pay attention to the characteristics of each stage of AD progression and choose a suitable corresponding stage of animal model not only to elucidate the pathogenesis of AD but also to develop and evaluate therapeutic drugs for AD.
Social Sciences and Farmers in Switzerland: the Story of a Strange Absence
Authors: Forney Jérémie
Published: December 2013

Switzerland is known to offer substantial support to its national agriculture. However and despite the political importance of agriculture, very few social science research programmes on farming and agriculture exist. Indeed, Switzerland has never had an institutionalized and established “rural sociology”. In a national context where the viability of agriculture depends largely on public money, discussions and criticism of the agricultural policy take different shapes, mainly addressing environmental and economic effectiveness. This paper reviews what work the social sciences have produced on agriculture and farming populations in Switzerland, with the aim of understanding better what should be done now, in a context of deep changes within the political and economic frames of agriculture. These concerns are not limited to Switzerland and have strong echoes in other national contexts. They are related to the understanding of farmers' role in production and consumption networks, in a context of multifunctionality and neoliberalism. In conclusion, it will be argued that because of some of its characteristics, Switzerland may prove to be an interesting case study for some of the debates in the wider rural social sciences.
Social Acceptance of Renewable Energy: Trends, Concepts, and Geographies
Authors: Fast Stewart
Published: December 2013

As global production of energy from renewable sources has grown over the last 25 years, so too has research on social acceptance of renewable energy. This article reports findings from a systematic review of peer‐reviewed articles related to this subject. There has been a rapid increase in the frequency of these studies and a shift in orientation away from market and socio‐political measures of securing policy support for renewables toward a sympathetic reporting of community opposition to wind turbines. Well‐developed conceptual and empirical critiques of the “Not‐in‐My‐Backyard” concept have emerged on the basis of Western European case studies, notably from the UK. Drawing from experiences across the globe with varied sizes and types of new energy infrastructure researchers have documented complex social responses that go beyond simplistic designations of opponent or supporter. Geographical concepts including place, landscape, distance decay, territory, and others have been gainfully employed in this interdisciplinary literature, and there is ample opportunity for greater contributions from the discipline to this area of growing popular and academic interest.
Lactic acidosis induced by metformin in a chronic hemodialysis patient with diabetes mellitus type 2
Authors: Altun Eda , Kaya Bülent , Paydaş Saime , Sarıakçalı Barış , Karayaylalı İbrahim
Published: December 2013

Metformin is a biguanide group oral antidiabetic drug used for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus. Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and anorexia are the most common adverse effects encountered during treatment. Lactic acidosis is a serious side effect seen with metformin use, and while the incidence of lactic acidosis is similar to other oral antidiabetics, metformin is not recommended to patients with certain risk factors, such as cardiovascular, pulmonary, and renal and liver failure. We describe a chronic hemodialysis patient treated with metformin, presenting to the nephrology department with altered mental status.
Does hemodiafiltration reduce vascular stiffness measured by aortic pulse wave velocity compared with high‐flux hemodialysis?
Authors: Charitaki Evangelia , Davenport Andrew
Published: December 2013

Hemodialfiltration (HDF) has been reported to reduce the frequency of intradialytic hypotension compared with hemodialysis (HD). We wished to determine whether HDF resulted in improvement of arterial stiffness compared with HD. We reviewed peripheral blood pressure and pulse wave velocity measurements in a cross‐sectional analysis of stable HDF and HD outpatients. One hundred forty‐one HDF patients were matched to 148 HD patients in terms of age, sex, prevalence of diabetes, peripheral blood pressure, and body mass. Pulse wave velocity was not different between the HD and HDF cohorts (median 9.1 [8.0–10.7] m/s vs. 9.7 [8.5–11.6] m/s). Similarly, there were no differences in central aortic pressure (149.2 ± 30.9 mmHg vs. 151.9 ± 35.2 mmHg), or aortic (39 [25.1–51.2]% vs. 38.6 [25.8–51.4]%) and brachial (3.8 [−24.3 to 26.9]% vs. 3 [−22.4 to 27.1]%) augmentation indices, respectively. Pulse wave velocity did not differ between adult patients treated by HD and HDF, and similarly, there were no differences in central aortic pressure, aortic or brachial augmentation indices, and cardiac diastolic perfusion. Our study suggests that HDF does not appear to offer any benefit over HD in terms of vascular stiffness.
Tubular variant of basal cell adenoma shares immunophenotypical features with normal intercalated ducts and is closely related to intercalated duct lesions of salivary gland
Authors: Montalli Victor Angelo , Martinez Elizabeth , Tincani Alfio , Martins Antônio , do Carmo Abreu Maria , Neves Catarina , Costa Ana Flávia , de Araújo Vera C. , Altemani Albina
Published: December 2013

Aims

The morphological criteria for identification of intercalated duct lesions (IDLs) of salivary glands have been defined recently. It has been hypothesised that IDL could be a precursor of basal cell adenoma (BCA). BCAs show a variety of histological patterns, and the tubular variant is the one that presents the strongest resemblance with IDLs. The aim of this study was to analyse the morphological and immunohistochemical profiles of IDLs and BCAs classified into tubular and non‐tubular subtypes, to determine whether or not IDL and tubular BCA represent distinct entities.

Methods and results

Eight IDLs, nine tubular BCAs and 19 non‐tubular BCAs were studied. All tubular BCAs contained IDL‐like areas, which represented 20–70% of the tumour. In non‐tubular BCA, IDL‐like areas were occasional and small (<5%). One patient presented IDLs, tubular BCAs and IDL/tubular BCA combined lesions. Luminal ductal cells of IDLs and tubular BCAs exhibited positivity for CK7, lysozyme, S100 and DOG1. In the non‐tubular BCA group, few luminal cells exhibited such an immunoprofile; they were mainly CK14‐positive. Basal/myoepithelial cells of IDLs, tubular BCAs and non‐tubular BCAs were positive for CK14, calponin, α‐SMA and p63; they were more numerous in BCA lesions.

Conclusions

IDL, tubular BCA and non‐tubular BCA form a continuum of lesions in which IDLs are related closely to tubular BCA. In both, the immunoprofile of luminal and myoepithelial cells recapitulates the normal intercalated duct. The difference between the adenoma‐like subset of IDLs and tubular BCA rests mainly on the larger numbers of myoepithelial cells in the latter. Our findings indicate that at least some BCAs can arise via IDLs.
Physical and material properties of an emulsion‐based lipstick produced via a continuous process
Authors: Beri A. , Pichot R. , Norton I. T.
Published: December 2013

Synopsis

Objectives

Water‐in‐oil emulsions in lipsticks could have the potential to improve moisturizing properties and deliver hydrophilic molecules to the lips. The aim of this work was to investigate the effect of a continuous process (scraped surface heat exchanger (SSHE) and pin stirrer (PS)) on the physical and material properties of an emulsion‐based lipstick by altering the processing conditions of both the SSHE and PS.

Methods

Emulsion formation was achieved using a SSHE and PS. Emulsions were analysed using nuclear magnetic resonance restricted diffusion (droplet size), texture analysis and rheology (mechanical properties).

Results

Results showed that a higher impeller rotational velocity (IRV) (1500 r.p.m.) and a lower exit temperature (52°C) produce the smallest droplets (~ 4 μm), due to greater disruptive forces and a higher viscosity of the continuous phase. The addition of a PS reduces the droplet size (14–6 μm) if the SSHE has a low IRV (500 r.p.m.), due to greater droplet disruption as the emulsion passes through the PS unit. Results also show that if the jacket temperature of a SSHE is 65°C, so that crystallization occurs in both process and post‐production, droplets can be integrated into the network resulting in a stiffer wax network (G' – 0.12, in comparison to 0.02 MPa). This is due to small crystals creating a shell around water droplets which can form connections with the continuous network forming a structured network. The addition of a pin stirrer can disrupt a formed network reducing the stiffness of the emulsion (0.3–0.05 MPa).

Conclusion

This work suggests the potential use of a continuous process in producing an emulsion‐based lipstick, particularly when wax crystals are produced in the process. Future work should consider the moisturizing or lubricating properties of wax continuous emulsions and the release of hydrophilic compounds from the aqueous phase.
Macrogeographic variation in the call of the corncrake Crex crex
Authors: Budka Michał , Mikkelsen Gunvar , Turčoková Lucia , Fourcade Yoan , Dale Svein , Osiejuk Tomasz S.
Published: December 2013

This study was conducted to characterise macrogeographic variation in the vocalisation of the corncrake Crex crex, a bird species with a non‐learned and highly stereotyped call. We also examined: 1) whether call characteristics remained stable across successive breeding seasons within two of the study populations and 2) whether call similarity was related to distance between populations.

Recordings of 352 males from eight populations were analysed. The analyses focused on variation in 1) temporal characteristics (duration of syllables and intervals, duration of the intervals between consecutive maximal amplitude peaks within syllables, called pulse‐to‐pulse duration (PPD)), and 2) spectral characteristics (minimal and maximal frequency, frequencies below which 25%, 50% and 75% acoustic energy of signal is distributed). We found significant differences in most of the temporal and all of the spectral characteristics between populations. No differences were found in PPD. Significant interannual differences in spectral characteristics were found in both of the populations examined, whereas differences in temporal characteristics were only observed in one population. In general, geographic variation in calls showed clinal distance‐dependence, where distant populations showed larger differences in call than neighbouring populations. Our results show that geographic variation in corncrake calls may be very dynamic in the short term and that within‐population variation may occur on the same scale as between‐population variation. This finding is surprising because call characteristics in non‐learners are essentially inherited, and genetic transmission should be very slow. We suggest that the social interactions between males and/or the specific dispersal patterns of this species and the low site fidelity of adult and young birds may be responsible for such pattern.
Influence of judges' behaviors on perceived procedural justice
Authors: Beier Susanne , Eib Constanze , Oehmann Verena , Fiedler Peter , Fiedler Klaus
Published: December 2013

The influence of judges' behaviors on procedural justice was analyzed in a field study, observing the judges' behaviors during n = 129 trials and assessing the defendants and the audiences' justice perceptions. The observed judicial behavior was unrelated to the defendants' justice perceptions. However, the more respectful the judge treated the defendants, the fairer the audience perceived the trial. In general, the effect size of the relationship between observational measures and subjective justice ratings was small in comparison to the relationship within defendants' or audiences' ratings. There were striking differences in the justice perception between the two data sources, namely defendants and audience. Thus, the source matters, and to avoid a same‐source bias, should be taken into account when analyzing justice perceptions.
Exploring perinatal shift‐to‐shift handover communication and process: an observational study
Authors: Poot Else P. , de Bruijne Martine C. , Wouters Maurice G. A. J. , de Groot Christianne J. M. , Wagner Cordula
Published: December 2013

Rationale, aims and objectives

Loss of situation awareness (SA) by health professionals during handover is a major threat to patient safety in perinatal care. SA refers to knowing what is going on around. Adequate handover communication and process may support situation assessment, a precursor of SA. This study describes current practices and opinions of perinatal handover to identify potential improvements.

Methods

Structured direct observations of shift‐to‐shift patient handovers (n = 70) in an academic perinatal setting were used to measure handover communication (presence and order of levels of SA: current situation, background, assessment and recommendation) and process (duration, interruptions/distractions, eye contact, active inquiry and reading information back). Afterwards, receivers' opinions of handover communication (n = 51) were measured by means of a questionnaire.

Results

All levels of SA were present in 7% of handovers, the current situation in 86%, the background in 99%, an assessment in 24% and a recommendation in 46%. In 77% of handovers the background was mentioned first, followed by the current situation. Forty‐four per cent of handovers took 2 minutes or more per patient. In 52% distractions occurred, in 43% there was no active inquiry, in 32% no eye contact and in 97% information was not read back. The overall mean of the receivers' opinions of handover communication was 4.1 (standard deviation ± 0.7; scale 1–5, where 5 is excellent).

Conclusions

Perinatal handovers are currently at risk for inadequate situation assessment because of variability and limitations in handover communication and process. However, receivers' opinions of handover communication were very positive, indicating a lack of awareness of patient safety threats during handover. Therefore, the staff's awareness of current limitations should be raised, for example through video reflection or simulation training.
Recent advances in plant membrane‐bound transcription factor research: Emphasis on intracellular movement
Authors: Seo Pil Joon
Published: December 2013

Transcription factors constitute numerous signal transduction networks and play a central role in gene expression regulation. Recent studies have shown that a limited portion of transcription factors are anchored in the cellular membrane, storing as dormant forms. Upon exposure to environmental and developmental cues, these transcription factors are released from the membrane and translocated to the nucleus, where they regulate associated target genes. As this process skips both transcriptional and translational regulations, it guarantees prompt response to external and internal signals. Membrane‐bound transcription factors (MTFs) undergo several unique steps that are not involved in the action of canonical nuclear transcription factors: proteolytic processing and intracellular movement. Recently, alternative splicing has also emerged as a mechanism to liberate MTFs from the cellular membranes, establishing an additional activation scheme independent of proteolytic processing. Multiple layers of MTF regulation add complexity to transcriptional regulatory scheme and ensure elaborate action of MTFs. In this review, we provide an overview of recent findings on MTFs in plants and highlight the molecular mechanisms underlying MTF liberation from cellular membranes with an emphasis on intracellular movement.
Are Implicit Self‐Esteem Measures Valid for Assessing Individual and Cultural Differences?
Authors: Falk Carl F. , Heine Steven J. , Takemura Kosuke , Zhang Cathy X. J. , Hsu Chih‐Wei
Published: December 2013

Objective

Our research utilized two popular theoretical conceptualizations of implicit self‐esteem: 1) implicit self‐esteem as a global automatic reaction to the self; and 2) implicit self‐esteem as a context/domain specific construct. Under this framework, we present an extensive search for implicit self‐esteem measure validity among different cultural groups (Study 1) and under several experimental manipulations (Study 2).

Method

In Study 1, Euro‐Canadians (N = 107), Asian‐Canadians (N = 187), and Japanese (N = 112) completed a battery of implicit self‐esteem, explicit self‐esteem, and criterion measures. Included implicit self‐esteem measures were either popular or provided methodological improvements upon older methods. Criterion measures were sampled from previous research on implicit self‐esteem and included self‐report and independent ratings. In Study 2, Americans (N = 582) completed a shorter battery of these same types of measures under either a control condition, an explicit prime meant to activate the self‐concept in a particular context, or prime meant to activate self‐competence related implicit attitudes.

Results

Across both studies, explicit self‐esteem measures far outperformed implicit self‐esteem measures in all cultural groups and under all experimental manipulations.

Conclusion

Implicit self‐esteem measures are not valid for individual or cross‐cultural comparisons. We speculate that individuals may not form implicit associations with the self as an attitudinal object.