bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparative analyses of basal rate of metabolism in mammals: data selection does matter
Authors: Genoud Michel , Isler Karin , Martin Robert D.
Published: July 2017

Basal rate of metabolism (BMR) is a physiological parameter that should be measured under strictly defined experimental conditions. In comparative analyses among mammalsBMRis widely used as an index of the intensity of the metabolic machinery or as a proxy for energy expenditure. Many databases withBMRvalues for mammals are available, but the criteria used to select metabolic data asBMRestimates have often varied and the potential effect of this variability has rarely been questioned. We provide a new, expandedBMRdatabase reflecting compliance with standard criteria (resting, postabsorptive state; thermal neutrality; adult, non‐reproductive status for females) and examine potential effects of differential selectivity on the results of comparative analyses. The database includes 1739 different entries for 817 species of mammals, compiled from the original sources. It provides information permitting assessment of the validity of each estimate and presents the value closest to a properBMRfor each entry. Using different selection criteria, several alternative data sets were extracted and used in comparative analyses of (i) the scaling ofBMRto body mass and (ii) the relationship between brain mass andBMR. It was expected that results would be especially dependent on selection criteria with small sample sizes and with relatively weak relationships. Phylogenetically informed regression (phylogenetic generalized least squares,PGLS) was applied to the alternative data sets for several different clades (Mammalia,Eutheria,Metatheria, or individual orders). ForMammalia, a ‘subsampling procedure’ was also applied, in which random subsamples of different sample sizes were taken from each original data set and successively analysed. In each case, two data sets with identical sample size and species, but comprisingBMRdata with different degrees of reliability, were compared. Selection criteria had minor effects on scaling equations computed for large clades (Mammalia,Eutheria,Metatheria), although less‐reliable estimates ofBMRwere generally about 12–20% larger than more‐reliable ones. Larger effects were found with more‐limited clades, such as sciuromorph rodents. For the relationship betweenBMRand brain mass the results of comparative analyses were found to depend strongly on the data set used, especially with more‐limited, order‐level clades. In fact, with small sample sizes (e.g. <100) results often appeared erratic. Subsampling revealed that sample size has a non‐linear effect on the probability of a zero slope for a given relationship. Depending on the species included, results could differ dramatically, especially with small sample sizes. Overall, our findings indicate a need for due diligence when selectingBMRestimates and caution regarding results (even if seemingly significant) with small sample sizes.
Behaviour of 4‐ to 5‐year‐old nondisabled ELBW children: Outcomes following group‐based physiotherapy intervention
Authors: Brown L. , Burns Y. R. , Watter P. , Gray P. H. , Gibbons K. S.
Published: July 2017

Background

Extreme prematurity or extremely low birth weight (ELBW) can adversely affect behaviour. Nondisabled ELBW children are at risk of behavioural problems, which may become a particular concern after commencement of formal education. This study explored the frequency of behavioural and emotional problems amongst nondisabled ELBW children at 4 to 5 years of age and whether intervention had a positive influence on behaviour. The relationship between behaviour, gender, and other areas of performance at 5 years was explored.

Methods

Fifty 4‐year‐old children (born <28 weeks gestation or birth weight <1,000 g) with minimal/mild motor impairment were randomly allocated to intervention (n = 24) or standard care (n = 26). Intervention was 6 group‐based physiotherapy weekly sessions and home programme. Standard care was best practice advice. The Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL) for preschool children was completed at baseline and at 1‐year post‐baseline. Other measures at follow‐up included Movement Assessment Battery for Children Second Edition, Beery Visual‐Motor Integration Test 5th Edition, and Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test 4th Edition.

Results

The whole cohort improved on CBCL total problems score between baseline (mean 50.0, SD 11.1) and 1‐year follow‐up (mean 45.2, SD 10.3), p = .004. There were no significant differences between groups over time on CBCL internalizing, externalizing, or total problems scores. The intervention group showed a mean difference in total problems score of −3.8 (CI [1.5, 9.1]) between times, with standard care group values being −4.4 (CI [1.6, 7.1]). Males had higher total problems scores than females (p = .026), although still performed within the “normal” range. CBCL scores did not correlate with other scores.

Conclusions

The behaviour of nondisabled ELBW children was within the “normal” range at 4 to 5 years, and both intervention and standard care may have contributed to improved behavioural outcomes. Behaviour was not related to performance in other developmental domains.
Data‐Driven Improvement in Prekindergarten Classrooms: Report From a Partnership in an Urban District
Authors: Farran Dale C. , Meador Deanna , Christopher Caroline , Nesbitt Kimberly T. , Bilbrey Laura E.
Published: July 2017

In 2014–2015 and 2015–2016, a metropolitan school system in the southern United States embarked on a unique mission to improve the quality of its public prekindergarten programs through a partnership with a group of developmental researchers in an iterative, data‐based venture. Data on 407 children in Year 1 and 433 in Year 2 (who were enrolled in 26 classrooms and extensively observed) are presented from the first 2 years of the ongoing partnership. All children were 4 years of age. Variability in classroom practices, measured empirically, and variability in child outcomes provided the means to examine the relations between children's gains in academic and social‐emotional areas and major areas of classroom practices. Lessons learned, the eight identified significant practices, implications, and next steps in the partnership are addressed.
Parenting practices and children's dental caries experience: A structural equation modelling approach
Authors: Kumar S. , Tadakamadla J. , Zimmer‐Gembeck M.J. , Kroon J. , Lalloo R. , Johnson N.W.
Published: July 2017

Aim

To evaluate the direct and mediated associations between parenting practices and dental caries experience in Indian school children.

Methods

The target population consisted of school children and their parents (N=1539) of Medak district in the state of Telangana, India. Parents completed a questionnaire that consisted of questions related to socioeconomic status (SES), family structure, the number of children, their own oral hygiene behaviour and parenting practices. Parenting practices were assessed using a translated version of the short form of Parent‐Child Relationship Questionnaire (PCRQ) which was found to have two factors, power assertion (ie over control and coercion) and positive parenting (warmth and positive parent‐child interaction). Children completed a questionnaire on tooth brushing frequency, dental visiting and sugar consumption practices to evaluate their oral hygiene behaviour, and underwent a clinical examination for dental caries by a single examiner. Path analysis was used to explore the influence of parent‐child relationship, SES and other family‐level variables on dental caries experience of children.

Results

Parents’ oral hygiene behaviour was positively (β=0.18, P=0.009), and power assertion negatively (β=−0.06, P=0.041) associated with children's oral hygiene behaviours. Families reporting higher SES had children with less dental caries experience (β=−0.10, P=0.028) and better oral hygiene behaviour (β=0.13, P=0.009). Power assertion parenting had an indirect association with dental caries experience (β=0.003, P=0.038).

Conclusions

Children had higher dental caries experience when they lived in families with lower SES and used more power assertion parenting practices.
Exonal switch down-regulates the expression of CD5 on blasts of acute T cell leukaemia
Authors: Rai A K , Singh A , Saxena A , Seth T , Raina V , Mitra D K
Published: July 2017

To date, CD5 expression and its role in acute T cell lymphoblastic leukaemia (T-ALL) have not been studied closely. We observed a significant reduction in surface expression of CD5 (sCD5) on leukaemic T cells compared to autologous non-leukaemic T cells. In this study, we have shown the molecular mechanism regulating the expression and function of CD5 on leukaemic T cells. A total of 250 patients suffering from leukaemia and lymphoma were immunophenotyped. Final diagnosis was based on their clinical presentation, morphological data and flow cytometry-based immunophenotyping. Thirty-nine patients were found to be of ALL-T origin. Amplification of early region of E1A and E1B transcripts of CD5 was correlated with the levels of surface and intracellular expression of CD5 protein. Functional studies were performed to show the effect of CD5 blocking on interleukin IL-2 production and survival of leukaemic and non-leukaemic cells. Lack of expression of sCD5 on T-ALL blasts was correlated closely with predominant transcription of exon E1B and significant loss of exon E1A of the CD5 gene, which is associated with surface expression of CD5 on lymphocytes. High expression of E1B also correlates with increased expression of cytoplasmic CD5 (cCD5) among leukaemic T cells. Interestingly, we observed a significant increase in the production of IL-2 by non-leukaemic T cells upon CD5 blocking, leading possibly to their increased survival at 48 h. Our study provides understanding of the regulation of CD5 expression on leukaemic T cells, and may help in understanding the molecular mechanism of CD5 down-regulation.
Prevalence of retinal vein occlusion in the Australian National Eye Health Survey
Authors: Keel Stuart , Xie Jing , Foreman Joshua , van Wijngaarden Peter , Taylor Hugh R , Dirani Mohamed
Published: July 2017

Importance

In Australia, knowledge of the epidemiology of retinal vein occlusion remains scarce because of a paucity of recent population‐based data. The National Eye Health Survey (2015–2016) provides an up‐to‐date estimate of the prevalence of retinal vein occlusion in non‐Indigenous and Indigenous Australian adults.

Background

To determine the prevalence and associations of retinal vein occlusion in a national sample of Indigenous and non‐Indigenous Australian adults.

Design

Population‐based cross‐sectional study.

Participants

A total of 3098 non‐Indigenous Australians (aged 50–98 years) and 1738 Indigenous Australians (aged 40–92 years) living in 30 randomly selected sites, stratified by remoteness.

Methods

Retinal vein occlusions were graded from retinal photographs using standardized protocols and recorded as central retinal vein occlusion or branch retinal vein occlusion.

Main Outcome Measure

Prevalence of retinal vein occlusion.

Results

In the non‐Indigenous population, the sampling weight adjusted prevalence of any retinal vein occlusion was 0.96% (95% confidence interval: 0.59, 1.6), with branch retinal vein occlusion observed in 0.72% (95% confidence interval: 0.41, 1.2) and central retinal vein occlusion in 0.24% (95% confidence interval: 0.13, 0.47). Any retinal vein occlusion was found in 0.91% (95% confidence interval: 0.47, 1.7) of Indigenous Australians aged 40 years and over, with branch retinal vein occlusion observed in 0.83% (95% confidence interval: 0.40, 1.7) and central retinal vein occlusion in 0.07% (95% confidence interval: 0.02, 0.32). Older age (odds ratio = 1.64 per 10 years, P = 0.006) and the presence of self‐reported diabetes (odds ratio = 3.24, P = 0.006) were associated with any retinal vein occlusion after multivariable adjustments. Retinal vein occlusion was attributed as the cause of monocular vision loss (<6/12) in seven (0.25%) non‐Indigenous and six (0.36%) Indigenous participants.

Conclusions and relevance

These data suggest that retinal vein occlusion is relatively uncommon in the non‐Indigenous Australians aged 50 years and over and Indigenous Australians aged 40 years and over. Similar to previous Australian and international reports, the prevalence of retinal vein occlusion rose sharply with age.
Accelerator‐free gloves as alternatives in cases of glove allergy in healthcare workers
Authors: Crepy Marie‐Noëlle , Lecuen Jérome , Ratour‐Bigot Carole , Stocks Jill , Bensefa‐Colas Lynda
Published: July 2017

Background

Accelerators in rubber gloves constitute an important group of contact allergens, particularly in healthcare workers.

Objectives

To assess the efficacy of accelerator‐free medical gloves in the secondary prevention of allergic contact dermatitis caused by rubber accelerators in healthcare workers.

Methods

Nine healthcare workers with hand eczema were advised to use accelerator‐free rubber gloves after a diagnosis of allergic contact dermatitis caused by rubber accelerators.

Results

Switching from conventional medical single‐use gloves containing accelerators to accelerator‐free medical gloves led to improvement in all cases, and more than two‐thirds of the patients were completely free of symptoms.

Conclusion

The use of accelerator‐free medical gloves can be an effective alternative in healthcare workers who are allergic to rubber accelerators.
Progesterone‐mediated angiogenic activity of endothelial progenitor cell and angiogenesis in traumatic brain injury rats were antagonized by progesterone receptor antagonist
Authors: Yu Peng , Li Shengjie , Zhang Zhifei , Wen Xiaolong , Quan Wei , Tian Qilong , Gao Chuang , Su Wanqiang , Zhang Jianning , Jiang Rongcai
Published: July 2017

Objectives

Progesterone (P4) has the potential therapeutic effects for traumatic brain injury (TBI) whose recovery depended on the enhanced angiogenesis. Endothelial progenitor cell (EPC) plays an essential role in vascular biology. We previously demonstrated that P4 administration improved circulatingEPClevel and neurological recovery of rat withTBI. Here, we hypothesized that P4 augmented angiogenic potential ofEPCand the angiogenesis‐related neurorestoration afterTBIthrough classical progesterone receptor (PR).

Materials and methods

EPCderived from rats were stimulated with graded concentrations (0, 10−10, 10−9, 5 × 10−9, 10−8, 10−7 mol/L) of P4 or 10−6 mol/L ulipristal acetate (UPA, aPRantagonist). Male rats were subjected to cortical impact injury and treated with (i)DMSO(dimethyl sulfoxide), (ii) P4 and (iii) P4 andUPA.

Results

It showed that P4 improved the angiogenic potential ofEPC, including tube formation, adhesion, migration and vascular endothelial growth factor secretion, in a dose‐dependent fashion with the maximal effect achieved at 10−9 mol/L P4. High concentration (10−7 mol/L) of P4 impaired the angiogenic potential ofEPC. Notably, 10−6 mol/LUPAantagonized the stimulatory effects of 10−9 mol/L P4. After administrating P4, a significant improvement of neurological function and the restoration of the leaked blood‐brain barrier were observed as well as a reduction of the brain water content. Both vessel density and expression of occludin of vessels were increased. WhenUPAwas administered with P4, the neural restoration and angiogenesis were all reversed. Western blot showed that 10−9 mol/L P4 increased the content ofPRAandPRBofEPC, while 10−7 mol/L P4 reduced the content of bothPRisoforms, but there was no change found in theTBIrats.

Conclusions

It may suggest that P4‐mediated angiogenic activity ofEPCand angiogenesis inTBIrats were antagonized byPRantagonist.
Metabolic reprogramming by HIF‐1 activation enhances survivability of human adipose‐derived stem cells in ischaemic microenvironments
Authors: Chen Chang , Tang Qi , Zhang Yan , Dai Minjia , Jiang Yichen , Wang Hang , Yu Mei , Jing Wei , Tian Weidong
Published: July 2017

Objectives

Poor cell survival severely limits the beneficial effect of adipose‐derived stem cell (ADSC)‐based therapy for disease treatment and tissue regeneration, which might be caused by the attenuated level of hypoxia‐inducible factor‐1 (HIF‐1) in these cells after having been cultured in 21% ambient oxygen in vitro for weeks. In this study, we explored the role of pre‐incubation in dimethyloxalylglycine (DMOG, HIF‐1 activator) in the survivability of human ADSCs in a simulated ischaemic microenvironment in vitro and in vivo. The underlying mechanism and angiogenesis were also studied.

Materials and methods

Survivability of ADSCs was determined in a simulated ischaemic model in vitro and a nude mouse model in vivo. Cell metabolism and angiogenesis were investigated by tube formation assay, flow cytometry, fluorescence staining and real‐time polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) after DMOG treatment.

Results

The results of the experimental groups showed significant enhancement of ADSC survivability in a simulated ischaemic microenvironment in vitro and transplanted model in vivo. Study of the underlying mechanisms suggested that the improved cell survival was regulated by HIF‐1‐induced metabolic reprogramming including decreased reactive oxygen species, increased intracellular pH, enhanced glucose uptake and increased glycogen synthesis. Tube formation assay revealed higher angiogenic ability in the DMOG‐treated group than that in control group.

Conclusions

The promotion of HIF‐1 level in ADSCs induced by DMOG preconditioning suggests a potential strategy for improving the outcome of cell therapy due to increased survival and angiogenic ability.
Down regulation of protective genes is associated with cellular and antibody‐mediated rejection
Authors: Lin‐Wang Hui Tzu , Cipullo Reginaldo , Dinkhuysen Jarbas J. , Finger Marco A. , Rossi João M. , Correia Edileide B. , Hirata Mário H.
Published: July 2017

Despite advances in immunosuppressive therapy, rejection still remains the main obstacle to a successful transplant. This study aims to explore the gene expression profile of the rejection process in order to decrease the number of unnecessary endomyocardial biopsies in stable patients.

Methods

A total of 300 formalin‐fixed and paraffin‐embedded (FFPE) endomyocardial biopsies sampled from 63 heart allograft recipients were included in this study. Acute cellular rejection (ACR) and antibody‐mediated rejection (AMR) were diagnosed by histological analysis and immunohistochemical C4d staining, respectively. Analysis of gene expression was performed by quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction. The samples were grouped according to the ISHLT rejection classification, aiming the statistical analysis.

Results

There was a significant decrease in the HMOX1, AIF1, and CCL2 transcript over the post‐transplantation period in non‐rejection group (P<.001). Furthermore, the ADIPOR1, ADIPOR2, BCL2L1, and VEGFA protective genes were significantly downregulated in the ACR group (P<.05). ADIPOR2, BCL2L1, IL6, and NOS2 genes were also significantly downregulated in the AMR group than in the non‐rejection group (P<.05).

Conclusion

The downregulations of the protective genes contribute to the allograft rejection, and the archived FFPE samples are useful for the gene expression analysis aiming the allograft rejection surveillance.
Familial progressive hyperpigmentation: A family resurvey and ultrastructural skin investigation
Authors: Wang Tingmei , Li Hongwen , Dong Yingying , Hu Man , She Qiuyun , Deng Yunhua
Published: July 2017

Familial progressive hyperpigmentation (FPH) is an autosomal dominant genodermatosis characterized by hyperpigmented patches that increase in size and number with age. Since its initial description in an African–American family in 1971, only a few cases of FPH have been documented. A three‐generation family with FPH in central China has also been reported. Here, we resurveyed that Chinese FPH family for a few unusual features including delayed age of onset and noninvolvement of ocular and oral mucosae. Electron microscopic examination of skin from the proband of the family showed that there were more melanosomes in lesional keratinocytes than in perilesional keratinocytes. Additionally, a large number of nonmembrane‐bound melanosome complexes were observed in the keratinocytes of hyperpigmented areas, whereas all of the melanosomes were dispersed in the keratinocytes of normally pigmented areas.
Clear‐cell atypical fibroxanthoma: An unusual case in an unusual place
Authors: Goldstein Zachary , Sarantopoulos George , Smart Chandra
Published: July 2017

Atypical fibroxanthoma represents a low‐grade sarcoma that usually presents in the elderly population on sun‐damaged areas of the head and neck regions. This neoplasm is characterized on histology by atypical pleomorphic, epithelioid to spindled cells, arranged in a haphazard pattern, set within a background of solar elastosis. In this case report, we present a unique case of the rare variant of clear‐cell atypical fibroxanthoma arising in an unusual place, specifically the lower extremities.
On a World Climate Assembly and the Social Cost of Carbon
Authors: Weitzman Martin L.
Published: July 2017

This paper argues that a uniform global tax‐like price on carbon emissions, whose revenues each country retains, can provide a focal point for a reciprocal common climate commitment, whereas quantity targets, which do not nearly so readily present such a single focal point, tend to rely ultimately on individual quantity commitments. The paper postulates the conceptually useful allegory of a futuristic ‘World Climate Assembly’ (WCA) that votes for a single worldwide price on carbon emissions via the basic democratic principle of one person, one vote majority rule. A WCA‐like uniform price‐tax counters self‐interest by incentivizing countries or agents to internalize the externality because each WCA agent's higher abatement cost from a higher emissions price is counterbalanced by that agent's extra benefit from inducing all other WCA agents to simultaneously lower their emissions in response to the higher price. The paper derives fresh insights and new simple formulae that relate each emitter's most‐preferred world price of carbon to the world ‘social cost of carbon’ (SCC), and further relates the WCA‐voted world price of carbon to the world SCC. Some implications are discussed. The overall methodology of the paper is a mixture of mostly classical with some behavioural economics.
Below‐ground nematode herbivory of resistant soybean cultivars impairs the performances of an above‐ground caterpillar and its parasitoid
Authors: LI XIAOHONG , LI BAOPING , MENG LING
Published: July 2017

1. Interactions between below‐ and above‐ground organisms have attracted interest in recent years, but less is known about the effect of root‐feeding nematodes on above‐ground trophic interactions between herbivores and their natural enemies.

2. This study examined whether the presence of the soybean cyst root nematode Heterodera glycines influences the performance of the above‐ground leaf‐chewing tobacco cutworm Spodoptera litura on soybeans, Glycine max, and whether this in turn affects the success of its parasitoid, Meteorus pulchricornis. Using three soybean cultivars that varied in the level of constitutive resistance to the tobacco cutworm, the study determined whether feeding by the nematode altered the developmental and reproductive performances of the caterpillar and its parasitoid.

3. Root feeding by the nematode slowed tobacco cutworm larval development time and reduced adult body weight. Root feeding by the nematode also had a negative effect on the caterpillar's parasitoid, by prolonging development time, decreasing adult body size and reducing fecundity. These effects increased in a linear trend and varied in magnitude depending on levels of soybean constitutive resistance.

4. These findings demonstrate that root feeding by the nematode can prime soybean plants with negative impacts on their herbivore and its parasitoid, and that the impact may vary in magnitude depending on levels of soybean constitutive defence. The results emphasise the need to integrate soybean constitutive and root nematode‐induced defences for a better understanding of below‐ and above‐ground organism interactions, and to allow insights to be gained into the improvement of soybean integrated pest management programmes.
Couple Therapy with Veterans: Early Improvements and Predictors of Early Dropout
Authors: Fischer Melanie S. , Bhatia Vickie , Baddeley Jenna L. , Al‐Jabari Rawya , Libet Julian
Published: July 2017

Family services within Veterans Affairs Medical Centers fulfill an important role in addressing relationship distress among Veterans, which is highly prevalent and comorbid with psychopathology. However, even for evidence‐based couple therapies, effectiveness is weaker compared to controlled studies, maybe because many Veteran couples drop out early and do not reach the “active” treatment stage after the 3–4 session assessment. In order to improve outcomes, it is critical to identify couples at high risk for early dropout, and understand whether couples may benefit from the assessment as an intervention. The current study examined (a) demographics, treatment delivery mode, relationship satisfaction, and psychological symptoms as predictors of dropout during and immediately following the assessment phase, and (b) changes in relationship satisfaction during assessment. 174 couples completed questionnaires during routine intake procedures. The main analyses focused on 140 male Veterans and their female civilian partners; 36.43% dropped out during the assessment phase and 24.74% of the remaining couples immediately following the first treatment session. More severe depressive symptoms in non‐Veteran partners were associated with dropout during assessment. Relationship satisfaction improved significantly during the assessment phase for couples who did not drop out, with larger gains for non‐Veteran partners. No demographics or treatment delivery mode were associated with dropout. Although more research is needed on engaging couples at risk for early dropout and maximizing early benefits, the findings suggest that clinicians should attend to the civilian partner's and Veteran's depressive symptoms at intake and consider the assessment part of active treatment.
Comprehensive analysis of two Shank3 and the Cacna1c mouse models of autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Kabitzke P.A. , Brunner D. , He D. , Fazio P.A. , Cox K. , Sutphen J. , Thiede L. , Sabath E. , Hanania T. , Alexandrov V. , Rasmusson R. , Spooren W. , Ghosh A. , Feliciano P. , Biemans B. , Benedetti M. , Clayton A.L.
Published: July 2017

To expand, analyze and extend published behavioral phenotypes relevant to autism spectrum disorder (ASD), we present a study of three ASD genetic mouse models: Feng's Shank3tm2Gfng model, hereafter Shank3/F, Jiang's Shank3tm1Yhj model, hereafter Shank3/J and the Cacna1c deletion model. The Shank3 models mimick gene mutations associated with Phelan–McDermid Syndrome and the Cacna1c model recapitulates the deletion underlying Timothy syndrome. This study utilizes both standard and novel behavioral tests with the same methodology used in our previously published companion report on the Cntnap2 null and 16p11.2 deletion models. We found that some but not all behaviors replicated published findings and those that did replicate, such as social behavior and overgrooming in Shank3 models, tended to be milder than reported elsewhere. The Shank3/F model, and to a much lesser extent, the Shank3/J and Cacna1c models, showed hypoactivity and a general anxiety‐like behavior triggered by external stimuli which pervaded social interactions. We did not detect deficits in a cognitive procedural learning test nor did we observe perseverative behavior in these models. We did, however, find differences in exploratory patterns of Cacna1c mutant mice suggestive of a behavioral effect in a social setting. In addition, only Shank3/F showed differences in sensory‐gating. Both positive and negative results from this study will be useful in identifying the most robust and replicable behavioral signatures within and across mouse models of autism. Understanding these phenotypes may shed light of which features to study when screening compounds for potential therapeutic interventions.
Determinants of influenza vaccination in older adults: A nationwide community‐based study in Taiwan
Authors: Chen Chang‐Hua , Wu Ming‐Shiang , Hsu Wen‐Yu , Chen Yu‐Min , Hsu Chih‐Cheng , Hsiung Chao A. , Wu I‐Chien
Published: July 2017

Aims

Influenza vaccination (InVa) is an effective measure for preventing influenza infection, which is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in older adults. However, the determinants of InVa remain unclear.

Methods

The present study included 4756 adults aged 55 years and older who completed the baseline examination of the Healthy Aging Longitudinal Study in Taiwan. During the examination, each participant received assessments of InVa status. Comprehensive assessments of sociodemographic (age, sex, education level, marital status, living alone and occupation) and health‐related factors (chronic diseases, smoking status, alcohol intake, physical activities, cognitive status and physical performance) were also carried out. The InVa rate was defined as the number of participants who reported receiving free InVa divided by the total number of candidates for free InVa. Multinomial logistic regression analysis was applied to investigate the sociodemographic and health‐related determinants of InVa status.

Results

The coverage rate of InVa was 44.8% (2130/4756). Older age (adjusted odds ratio [OR; >75 years vs <65 years] 7.72, 95% CI 6.26–9.52), multiple chronic diseases (OR [≥2 vs 0)] 1.31, 95% CI 1.10–1.65) and physical activity (OR [yes vs no] 1.43, 95% CI 1.23–1.64) were positively associated with receiving InVa. A current smoking status (OR 0.67, 95% CI 0.55–0.82) was negatively associated with receiving InVa.

Conclusions

Older adults who received InVa differed from non‐receivers in multiple sociodemographic and health‐related characteristics. These findings support continual efforts to improve the InVa coverage rate in vulnerable populations. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2017; 17: 2396–2402.
Debunking the myth of general consumer rejection of green genetic engineering: Empirical evidence from Germany
Authors: Butkowski Olivier K. , Pakseresht Ashkan , Lagerkvist Carl Johan , Bröring Stefanie
Published: July 2017

The emergence of a more sustainable economy in Europe was accompanied by a range of bio‐based products and technologies. As a prominent example, green genetic engineering opens up multiple options to increase agricultural production, but its public acceptance seems to vary by application area. Risk perception explains consumer acceptance of green genetic engineering, which is a necessary precondition for wider technology adoption. This study investigates risk perceptions for four major sources of risk: health related, environmental, socioeconomic and ethical. Data were collected in a laboratory experiment in Germany, with a total of 439 participants. A between‐subject design was employed. The four experimental treatment groups comprised two policy scenarios, namely one only permitting research and development and the other allowing full commercialization of genetically modified products, and two product end‐uses, bioenergy and food. The study shows significant end‐use differences in both the type of policy scenario and the risk dimension in question. In particular, health risks were generally perceived to be lower for bioenergy than food whenever full commercialization was pursued. Furthermore, full commercialization of genetically modified food prompted higher concerns about personal health, whereas use of crops for bioenergy production was broadly related to higher levels of socioeconomic risk. Finally, although the majority of consumers identified health risks as being most relevant, the consequences for the environment evoked the greatest degree of risk perception. In general, our findings lend support for the notion that the policy regime is the most important determinant for risk perception, followed by the type of risk dimension and level of trust in industry.
The relationship between professional communication competences and nursing performance of critical care nurses in South Korea
Authors: Song Hyo‐Suk , Choi JiYeon , Son Youn‐Jung
Published: July 2017

Background

Ineffective communication of critical care nurses can lead to higher levels of burnout and negatively affect quality of patient care and patient outcomes such as higher mortality.

Aim

The purpose of this study is to describe the relationship between professional communication competences and nursing performance of critical care nurses in South Korea.

Method

This cross‐sectional study collected data on 197 intensive care unit staff nurses in 3 tertiary academic medical centres in South Korea from July to November 2014.

Results

In the hierarchical regression analysis, the professional communication competences were the only significant predictors of nursing performance after adjusting for sociodemographic characteristics. In addition, the greater professional communication competences of nurses were associated with being older and having a higher education level, more years of overall clinical and intensive care unit experience, and a higher monthly salary.

Conclusion

Our findings indicate that communication skills–related training should be included in the practical education to improve nursing performance for the quality of intensive care. Further research is needed to identify the comprehensive factors on professional communication competences of nurses in intensive care units.
Nurses' use of mobile instant messaging applications: A uses and gratifications perspective
Authors: Bautista John Robert , Lin Trisha T.C.
Published: July 2017

Aim

To explore how and why mobile instant messaging applications are used by Filipino nurses as part of their work.

Methods

Guided by the uses and gratifications theory, in‐depth interviews with 20 staff nurses working in 9 hospitals (ie, 4 private and 5 public hospitals) in the Philippines were conducted in July 2015. Interview data were analysed through a phenomenological perspective to thematic analysis.

Results

Results show that mobile instant messaging applications such asFacebook MessengerandViberwere mostly used by staff nurses and these were accessed using their own smartphones. Thematic analysis indicates that they were used to meet staff nurses' need for information exchange, socialization, and catharsis. Moreover, user interactions vary depending on members within a chat group. For instance, communication via mobile instant messaging applications are much formal when superiors are included in a chat group.

Conclusion

In general, the results show that mobile instant messaging applications are routinely used by Filipino staff nurses not only for clinical purposes (ie, information exchange) but also for non‐clinical purposes (ie, socialization and catharsis). This paper ends with several practical and theoretical implications including future research directions.
Clinical guidelines for male lower urinary tract symptoms and benign prostatic hyperplasia
Authors: Homma Yukio , Gotoh Momokazu , Kawauchi Akihiro , Kojima Yoshiyuki , Masumori Naoya , Nagai Atsushi , Saitoh Tadanori , Sakai Hideki , Takahashi Satoru , Ukimura Osamu , Yamanishi Tomonori , Yokoyama Osamu , Yoshida Masaki , Maeda Kenji
Published: July 2017

The present article is the abbreviated English translation of the Japanese guidelines for male lower urinary tract symptoms and benign prostatic hyperplasia updated as of the end of 2016. The target patients are men aged >50 years complaining of lower urinary tract symptoms, with or without benign prostatic hyperplasia, and the target readers are non‐urological general physicians and urologists. Mandatory assessment for general physicians is medical history, physical examination, urinalysis and measurement of serum prostate‐specific antigen. Additional mandatory assessment for urologists is symptoms and quality of life assessment by questionnaires, uroflowmetry, residual urine measurement, and prostate ultrasonography. Nocturia requires special attention, as it can result from nocturnal polyuria and/or sleep disturbance rather than lower urinary tract disorders. Functional lower urinary tract disorders with or without benign prostatic hyperplasia are primarily managed by conservative therapy and medications, such as α1‐blockers and phosphodiesterase‐type 5 inhibitors. Use of other medications or combination pharmacotherapy is to be reserved for urologists. 5α‐Reductase inhibitors and anticholinergics or β3 agonists are indicated for men with enlarged prostates and overactive bladder symptoms, respectively. Surgical intervention for bladder outlet obstruction is considered for persistent symptoms or benign prostatic hyperplasia‐related comorbidities. Surgical modalities should be optimized by the patient's characteristics, performance of equipment and the surgeon's experience.
Aspects of control and substance use among middle‐aged and older adults with bipolar disorder
Authors: Stalman Marissa N. , Canham Sarah L. , Mahmood Atiya , King David , O'Rourke Norm
Published: July 2017

High prevalence rates of alcohol and substance use disorders have been reported among persons with bipolar disorder (BD). In the present study, we explored the daily experiences of middle‐aged and older adults living with BD who reported regular substance use and the ways in which participants expressed ‘control’ in relation to their use of alcohol and other substances. Semistructured, in‐depth interviews were conducted with 12 participants (nine women and three men), aged 36–57 years of age (mean = 49 years). Thematic analyses identified emergent themes and patterns in participants’ life histories. The theme of ‘control’ emerged as central to participants’ reports, and was organized into four categories: (i) substance use to control BD symptoms; (ii) substance use provides a sense of being in control; (iii) methods of controlled substance use; and (iv) not having control: overreliance on substances. Implications of the present study include the need for nurses to openly discuss the use of alcohol and other drugs with persons with BD, provide health information and screening, and determine whether persons with BD feel they have control over their substance use. Several lines of research with persons who have BD and use substances are suggested.
Safety and efficacy of dual‐wavelength laser (1064 + 595 nm) for treatment of non‐treated port‐wine stains
Authors: Wang T. , Chen D. , Yang J. , Ma G. , Yu W. , Lin X.
Published: July 2017

Background

Patients with port‐wine stain (PWS) suffer physically and psychologically because of the high incidence (0.3%–0.5%) of the disease. Pulsed‐dye laser (PDL) at 595 nm is the gold standard of the treatment for PWS. Nevertheless, clinicians intend to determine whether the dual‐wavelength laser (DWL; 595‐nm PDL + 1064‐nm Nd:YAG) is an adequate choice in the treatment of non‐treated PWS. This study is the first prospective within‐patient controlled research seeking to investigate the safety and efficacy of DWL for the treatment of non‐treated PWS.

Methods

A total of 61 patients with non‐treated flat facial PWS, who were treated using the Cynergy laser system in our clinic, were included in this study. Each PWS lesion was divided into two adjacent test treatment sites of similar size and colour. The two sites were randomly assigned to PDL or DWL treatment in a blinded manner of participants. In each case, two sets of treatment parameters were used: (i) 595‐nm PDL and (ii) 595‐nm PDL + 1064‐nm Nd:YAG. Both had a 10 mm spot size, an epidermal cooling system and 1‐s interpulse interval between two pulses. Clinical efficacy and safety outcomes were evaluated by visual assessment 2 months after treatment.

Results

Comparison by visual evaluation suggests that the responses of non‐treated PWS to treatment by PDL and DWL were not significantly different. Moreover, three patients developed scarring after DWL treatment.

Conclusion

Compared with PDL, DWL exhibits a higher risk of potential scarring and has no advantage in efficacy of treating non‐treated PWS.
The Hawthorne effect in direct observation research with physicians and patients
Authors: Goodwin Meredith A. , Stange Kurt C. , Zyzanski Stephen J. , Crabtree Benjamin F. , Borawski Elaine A. , Flocke Susan A.
Published: July 2017

Rationale, aims, and objectives

This study examines the degree to which a “Hawthorne effect” alters outpatient‐visit content.

Methods

Trained research nurses directly observed 4454 visits to 138 family physicians. Multiple data sources were used to examine the Hawthorne effect including differences in medical record documentation for observed visits and the prior visit by the same patient, time use during visits on the first versus the second observation day of each physician, and report by the patient, physician, and observer of the effect of observation.

Results

Visits on the first versus the second observation day were longer by an average of 1 minute (P < .001); there were time‐use differences for 4 of 20 behaviour categories evaluated. No effect of the observer on the interaction was reported by 74% of patients and 55% of physicians. Most of those that reported an affect indicated it was slight. Patients with non‐White race, lower‐educational level, and poorer health were more likely to report being affected by the observer.

Conclusions

In a study that was designed to minimize the Hawthorne effect, the presence of an observer had little effect on most patient‐physician visits but appeared to at least slightly effect a subgroup of vulnerable patients.
rdxA, frxA, and efflux pump in metronidazole‐resistant Helicobacter pylori: Their relation to clinical outcomes
Authors: Lee Sun Min , Kim Nayoung , Kwon Yong Hwan , Nam Ryoung Hee , Kim Jung Mogg , Park Jong Youn , Lee Yeon Suk , Lee Dong Ho
Published: July 2017

Background and Aim

rdxA and frxA mutations and enhancement of efflux pump have been suggested as the cause of metronidazole resistance in Helicobacter pylori. This study was performed to investigate the resistance mechanisms related to clinical eradication outcome, and to examine direct involvement of hefA in metronidazole‐resistant isolates with intact rdxA and frxA.

Methods

A total of 53 H. pylori‐positive patients who were treated with metronidazole‐containing sequential or quadruple therapy from 2011 to 2015 were enrolled. The metronidazole susceptibility of H. pylori isolates was examined by agar dilution test. Mutations in rdxA and frxA, were analyzed with DNA sequencing, and impact of hefA on metronidazole resistance was examined with quantitative real‐time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction, knockout and genetic complementation test for hefA.

Results

Seven mutation types of rdxA and/or frxA were found in H. pylori isolated from non‐eradicated subjects. rdxA mutation was associated with eradication failure (P = 0.002), and nonsense mutation in rdxA reduced eradication efficacy (P = 0.009). hefA expression was significantly higher in resistant isolates (P < 0.001), especially in rdxA(−)frxA(−) as compared to rdxA(+)frxA(+) (P = 0.027). Resistant isolates with no mutation in rdxA and frxA became susceptible after hefA knockout. Genetic complementation for hefA recovered metronidazole resistance in all of three hefA knockout mutants.

Conclusions

These results suggest that rdxA mutations play a critical role in metronidazole resistance as well as the outcomes of eradication therapy. In addition, hefA seems to be directly involved in metronidazole resistance, which explains the resistance in clinical isolates with intact rdxA and frxA.
Disparities in Treatment of Older Adults with Suicide Risk in the Emergency Department
Authors: Arias Sarah A. , Boudreaux Edwin D. , Segal Daniel L. , Miller Ivan , Camargo Carlos A. , Betz Marian E.
Published: July 2017

Background/Objective

We described characteristics and treatment received for older (≥60 years) vs younger (<60 years) adult emergency department (ED) patients with suicide risk.

Design

Retrospective chart review.

Setting

An ED with universal screening for suicide risk.

Participants

Eligible charts included a random sample of adults (≥18 years) who screened positive for suicidal ideation (SI) in past 2 weeks and/or a suicide attempt (SA) within the past 6 months. Visit dates were from May 2014 to September 2016.

Results

A total of 800 charts were reviewed, with oversampling of older adults. Of the 200 older adults sampled, fewer older adults compared to younger adults (n = 600) had a chief complaint involving psychiatric behavior (53% vs 70%) or self‐harm behavior (26% vs 36%). Although a higher number of older adults (93%) had documentation of current SI compared to younger adults (79%), fewer older adults (17%) reported SA in the past 2 weeks compared to younger adults (23%). Of those with a positive suicide screen who were discharged home, less than half of older adults received a mental health evaluation during their visit (42%, 95% CI 34–52) compared to 66% (95% CI 61–70) of younger adults who met the same criteria. Similarly, fewer older, than younger, adult patients with current SI/SA received referral resources (34%; 95% CI 26–43; vs 60%; 95% CI 55–65).

Conclusions

Significantly fewer suicidal older adult patients who were discharged home received a mental health evaluation when compared to similar younger adults. These findings highlight an important area for improvement in the treatment of older adults at risk for suicide.
The Impact of Energy Management Control Systems on Energy Efficiency in the German Manufacturing Industry
Authors: Schulze Mike , Heidenreich Sven , Spieth Patrick
Published: July 2017

Although previous studies point to much (untapped) potential for energy efficiency enhancement in industry, empirical research that adapts findings of environmental control to the context of energy management remains widely neglected. Specifically, previous environmental research suggests that the implementation of energy management control systems (EnMCS) could be an effective lever for companies to enhance their production systems and operations toward energy efficiency. Yet, empirical evidence for this theoretical proposition is rather missing; thus, debate continues regarding whether the high investments to set up a comprehensive EnMCS pay off in the long run. Based on a sample of 236 German manufacturing companies, this study combines primary data that capture the configuration of EnMCS with secondary data that were used to calculate energy efficiency. The results provide evidence that the extent of EnMCS implementation positively relates to firms’ energy efficiency. Findings from additional moderation analysis suggest that companies might enhance the relationship of EnMCS and energy efficiency performance by establishing a full‐time energy manager or by using external energy consulting support.