bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Content Validation of the Operational Definitions of the Nursing Diagnoses of Activity Intolerance, Excess Fluid Volume, and Decreased Cardiac Output in Patients With Heart Failure
Authors: de Souza Vanessa , Zeitoun Sandra Salloum , Lopes Camila Takao , de Oliveira Ana Paula Dias , Lopes Juliana de Lima , de Barros Alba Lucia Botura Leite
Published: December 2013

Objectives

To consensually validate the operational definitions of the nursing diagnoses activity intolerance, excessive fluid volume, and decreased cardiac output in patients with decompensated heart failure.

Method

Consensual validation was performed in two stages: analogy by similarity of defining characteristics, and development of operational definitions and validation with experts.

Results

A total of 38 defining characteristics were found. Operational definitions were developed and content‐validated. One hundred percent of agreement was achieved among the seven experts after five rounds. “Ascites” was added in the nursing diagnosis excessive fluid volume.

Conclusion

The consensual validation improves interpretation of human response, grounding the selection of nursing interventions and contributing to improved nursing outcomes.

Implications for Practice

Support the assessment of patients with decompensated heart failure.

Objetivos

Realizar a validação consensual das definições operacionais dos diagnósticos de enfermagem Intolerância à atividade, Volume de líquidos excessivo e Débito cardíaco diminuído em pacientes com insuficiência cardíaca descompensada.

Método

Validação consensual em duas etapas: Analogia de semelhança das características definidoras e desenvolvimento de definições operacionais e validação com expertst.

Resultados

Foram encontradas 38 características definidoras para os diagnósticos de enfermagem. Suas definições operacionais foram desenvolvidas e seu conteúdo validado. Os resultados mostram que houve 100% de concordância entre os sete experts após cinco rodada. As definições operacionais foram classificadas com base no nível de concordânica. “Ascite” foi acrescentada ao diagnóstico Volume de líquidos excessivo.

Conclusão

A validação consensual melhora a interpretação das respostas humanas, embasando a seleção de intervenções de enfermagem e contribuindo para melhorar os resultados.

Implicações Para A Prática

Apoio à avaliação dos pacientes com insuficiência cardíaca descompensada.
Prevalence and Predictors of Maternal Alcohol Consumption in 2 Regions of Ukraine
Authors: Chambers Christina D. , Yevtushok Lyubov , Zymak‐Zakutnya Natalya , Korzhynskyy Yuriy , Ostapchuk Lyubov , Akhmedzhanova Diana , Chan Priscilla H. , Xu Ronghui , Wertelecki Wladimir
Published: December 2013

Background

Fetal alcohol spectrum disorders are thought to be a leading cause of developmental disabilities worldwide. However, data are lacking on alcohol use among pregnant women in many countries. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the prevalence and predictors of alcohol consumption by pregnant women in Ukraine.

Methods

Cross‐sectional screening of pregnant women was conducted in 2 regions of Ukraine during the recruitment phase of an ongoing clinical study that is part of the Collaborative Initiative on Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders. Women attending a routine prenatal visit at 1 of 2 participating regional centers were asked about alcohol consumption. Quantity and frequency of alcoholic beverages consumed in the month around conception and in the most recent month of pregnancy were measured using a standard interview instrument.

Results

Between 2007 and 2012, 11,909 pregnant women were screened on average in the second trimester of pregnancy. Of these, 92.7% reported being ever‐drinkers. Among ever‐drinkers, 54.8% reported drinking alcohol in the month around conception and 12.9% consumed at least 3 drinks on at least 1 day in that time period. In the most recent month of pregnancy, 46.3% continued to report alcohol use and 9.2% consumed at least 3 drinks per day. Significant predictors of average number of drinks or heavier drinking per day in either time period in pregnancy included lower gravidity, being single, unmarried/living with a partner, or separated, lower maternal education, smoking, younger age at initiation of drinking, and higher score on the TWEAK screening test for harmful drinking.

Conclusions

These findings support the need for education/intervention in women of childbearing age in Ukraine and can help inform targeted interventions for women at risk of an alcohol‐exposed pregnancy. The initiation of a standard screening protocol in pregnancy is a step in the right direction.
Discontinuation of clozapine: a 15‐year naturalistic retrospective study of 320 patients
Authors: Davis M. C. , Fuller M. A. , Strauss M. E. , Konicki P. E. , Jaskiw G. E.
Published: December 2013

Objective

Clozapine is underutilized in the management of treatment‐resistant schizophrenia. To understand contributing factors, we analyzed the frequency and causes of clozapine discontinuations that occurred over a 15‐year period in a clinical setting.

Method

Data were extracted from computerized records and from mandatory termination reports for discontinuation events 1993–2007. The reasons for termination were analyzed.

Results

Over half of the patients (n = 183/320; 57%) had at least one discontinuation (median time 609 days). The two most common causes for discontinuation were non‐adherence (35%) and side‐effects (28%). Hematological side‐effects accounted for 45% of all side‐effect associated discontinuations; most such patients remained eligible for clozapine treatment, and a significant fraction remained on clozapine after rechallenge. Central nervous system side‐effects accounted for 35% of side‐effect induced discontinuations. General factors significantly associated with discontinuation were African American race, older age at initiation of clozapine and less improvement in psychiatric symptoms.

Conclusion

In addition to anticipating and addressing causes of non‐adherence, psychiatrists should consider clozapine rechallenge in eligible patients and implement measures to mitigate clozapine‐associated sedation, seizures, and other side‐effects. Future studies should particularly address why African American and older patients may be more likely to discontinue clozapine.
Improving osteoporosis management following minimal trauma fracture in a regional setting: The Coffs Fracture Card Project
Authors: Tulk Cheryl , Lane Pam , Gilbey Anne , Johnston Helena , Chia Karen , Mitchell Lee , Bagga Hanish , Wong Peter K.K.
Published: December 2013

Objectives

To improve osteoporosis (OSP) management following minimal trauma fracture (MTF) with few additional resources.

Design

Population intervention with serial cross‐sectional analysis.

Setting

Regional setting involving primary care, base hospital and private hospital.

Participants

Patients with MTF.

Intervention

A ‘Fracture Card’ prompting OSP management was provided to all patients post‐MTF. Patients were encouraged to attend their general practitioner (GP) with this to discuss bone health issues. The 2‐year intervention was supported by a public health education campaign.

Main outcome measures

Number of (i) serum 25‐OH vitamin D assays, (ii) dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry (DXA) scans, and (iii) new Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS)‐subsidised prescriptions for bone protective therapy (bisphosphonates, raloxifene, strontium, teriparatide, denosumab).

Results

The number of serum 25‐OH vitamin D assays ordered in Coffs Harbour increased from 329 ± 15 per month (July 2009–June 2010) to 568 ± 21 (July 2010–June 2012; P < 0.001). The number of DXA scans performed per month increased from 192 ± 14 (July 2009–June 2010) to 296 ± 12 (July 2010–June 2012; P < 0.001). There was no difference in the number of new PBS‐subsidised prescriptions for bone protective therapy in the Coffs statistical subdivision over that time (176 ± 3.8 per month, July 2009–June 2010 versus 180 ± 3.5, July 2010–June 2012, P > 0.05).

Conclusions

The intervention was associated with an increased number of 25‐OH vitamin D assays and DXA scans but not with more prescriptions for bone protective therapy. This suggests that a public health education campaign and provision of a ‘prompt’ for GPs was only partially successful at improving OSP management post‐MTF. This has driven establishment of a Fracture Liaison Service.
Glycated haemoglobin variations in paediatric type 1 diabetes: the impact of season, gender and age
Authors: Hanberger L , Åkesson K , Samuelsson U
Published: December 2013

Aim

To study whether monthly variations in type 1 diabetes incidence are related to monthly glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) levels at diagnosis and if high HbA1c at diagnosis is related to certain clinical variables at diagnosis and during the clinical course of the disease.

Methods

Data from 4430 boys and 3590 girls registered in the Swedish paediatric diabetes quality registry, Swedish paediatric diabetes quality registry, from 2000 to 2010 were analysed.

Results

Month of onset varied (p < 0.001), with 53% diagnosed during September to February, and mean HbA1c at diagnosis was highest in May (10.9%, 96 mmol/mol) and lowest in (October 9.4%, 88 mmol/mol) (p < 0.001). Girls showed higher HbA1c at onset than boys (p < 0.001). More than half (53%) with an annual mean HbA1c of >9.3% (78 mmol/mol) and 4% of those with an annual mean of <7.4% (57 mmol/mol) in 2007 had >9.3% (78 mmol/mol) in 2010.

Conclusion

Patients with high HbA1c levels during a certain period have the same high levels several years later. This group, perhaps including those with high HbA1c level at diagnosis, may need more intensive care, including extra support from the diabetes teams and other forms of medical treatment.
Does tagging improve the navigation of online recorded lectures by students?
Authors: Gorissen Pierre , van Bruggen Jan , Jochems Wim
Published: December 2013

Students more and more have access to online recordings of the lectures they attend at universities. The volume and length of these recorded lectures however make them difficult to navigate. Research shows that students primarily watch the recorded lectures while preparing for their exams. They do watch the full recorded lectures, but review only the parts that are relevant to them. While doing so, they often lack the required mechanisms to locate efficiently those parts of the recorded lecture that they want to view. In this paper, we describe an experiment where expert tagging is used as a means to facilitate the students' search. In the experiment, 255 students had the option to use tags to navigate 18 recorded lectures. We used the data tracked by the lecture capture system to analyze the use of the tags by the students. We compared these data to students who did not use the tagging interface (TI). Results show that the use of the TI increases in time. Students use the TI more actively over time while reducing the amount of video that they view. The experiment also shows that students who use the TI score higher grades when compared with students who use the regular interface.
Radiographic progression by Prostate Cancer Working Group (PCWG)‐2 criteria as an intermediate endpoint for drug development in metastatic castration‐resistant prostate cancer
Authors: Sonpavde Guru , Pond Gregory R. , Armstrong Andrew J. , Galsky Matthew D. , Leopold Lance , Wood Brian A. , Wang Shaw‐Ling , Paolini Jolanda , Chen Isan , Chow‐Maneval Edna , Mooney David J. , Lechuga Mariajose , Smith Matthew R. , Michaelson M. Dror
Published: December 2013

Objective

To investigate the association of radiographic progression defined by Prostate Cancer Working Group (PCWG)‐2 guidelines and overall survival (OS) in men with metastatic castration‐resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC).

Patients and Methods

Two trials that used PCWG‐2 guidelines to define progression were analysed: a randomized phase II trial (n = 221) comparing first‐line docetaxel‐prednisone plus AT‐101 or placebo, and a phase III trial (n = 873) comparing prednisone plus sunitinib or placebo after docetaxel‐based chemotherapy. Cox proportional hazards regression models were used to estimate the association of radiographic progression with OS. Landmark analyses compared progressing patients with those who had not progressed. Sub‐analyses compared patients removed from trial for progression vs other reasons.

Results

An increased risk of death was seen for radiographic progression at landmark times from 6 to 12 months with docetaxel‐based therapy (hazard ratio [HR] >1.7 at all time‐points). An increased risk of death was also seen with post‐docetaxel prednisone alone or with sunitinib for progression at landmark times from 2 to 8 months (HR >2.7 at all time‐points). Kendall's τ was 0.50 (P < 0.001) in the setting of docetaxel‐based therapy and 0.34 (P < 0.001) in the post‐docetaxel setting for association between radiographic progression and death amongst patients with both events. Removal from study due to radiographic progression was associated with a significantly lower OS compared with removal for other reasons in both trials. Limitations of a retrospective analysis apply and there was no central radiology review.

Conclusions

Radiographic progression by PCWG‐2 criteria was significantly associated with OS in patients with mCRPC receiving first‐line docetaxel‐based chemotherapy or post‐docetaxel therapy. With external validation as a surrogate endpoint in trials showing survival benefits, the use of radiographic progression‐free survival may expedite drug development in mCRPC, which has been hampered by the lack of intermediate endpoints.
Tissue engineering of diseased bladder using a collagen scaffold in a bladder exstrophy model
Authors: Roelofs Luc A.J. , Kortmann Barbara B.M. , Oosterwijk Egbert , Eggink Alex J. , Tiemessen Dorien M. , Crevels A. Jane , Wijnen Rene M.H. , Daamen Willeke F. , van Kuppevelt Toin H. , Geutjes Paul J. , Feitz Wout F.J.
Published: December 2013

Objective

To compare the regenerative capacity of diseased bladder in a large animal model of bladder exstrophy with regeneration in healthy bladder using a highly porous collagen scaffold.

Materials and Methods

Highly porous bovine typeIcollagen scaffolds with a diameter of 32 mm were prepared. In 12 fetal sheep a bladder exstrophy was surgically created at 79 days’ gestation. Lambs were born at full term (140 days’ gestation). After 1 week the bladder lesion was reconstructed and augmented with a collagen scaffold (group 1). In nine normal newborn lambs the bladder was augmented with a collagen scaffold 1 week after birth (group 2). Functional (video‐urodynamics) and histological evaluation was performed at 1 and 6 months after surgery.

Results

The survival rate was 58% in group 1 and 100% in group 2. Cystograms were normal in all lambs, besides low‐grade reflux in both groups. Urodynamics showed comparable capacity between both groups and a trend to lower compliance in group 1. Histological evaluation at 1 month revealed a non‐confluent urothelial layer, an immature submucosa, and initial ingrowth of smooth muscle cells. At 6 months both groups showed normal urothelial lining, standard extracellular matrix development, and smooth muscle cell ingrowth.

Conclusions

Bladder tissue regeneration with a collagen scaffold in a diseased bladder model and in healthy bladder resulted in comparable functional and histological outcome, with a good quality of regenerated tissue involving all tissue layers. Improvements may still be needed for larger augmentations or more severely diseased bladders.
T cells from chronic bone infection show reduced proliferation and a high proportion of CD28− CD4 T cells
Authors: Kumar G , Roger P-M , Ticchioni M , Trojani C , Bernard de Dompsur R , Bronsard N , Carles M , Bernard E
Published: December 2013

Chronic bone infection is associated with bone resorption. From animal studies, CD3/CD28-activated T cells are known to enhance osteoclastogenesis and bone resorption. Because CD28 is expressed constitutively on T cells and its expression is down-regulated by chronic exposure to the inflammatory environment, we characterized co-stimulatory molecule expression on T cells from chronically infected patients. We used cytofluorometric techniques to phenotypically characterize T cells, its co-stimulatory molecules and perforin secretion from infected and non-infected human bones. Chronic bone infection was defined as infection lasting for more than a month. We show a higher T cell activation [human leucocyte antigen D-related (HLA-DR+)] in infected compared to non-infected bones: median being 16 versus 7%, P = 0·009 for CD4 T cells, and 33 versus 15%, P = 0·038 for CD8 T cells, respectively. However, T cell proliferation (Ki67+) was lower for CD8 T cells in infected bones: 26 versus 34%, P = 0·045. In contrast, we detected no difference in apoptosis and regulatory T cells. In infected bone, we found higher CD28-negative CD4+ T cells compared to non-infected bone: 20 versus 8%, respectively (P = 0·005); this T cell subset had higher CD11b expression and perforin secretion. Chronically infected human bones are characterized by an increase of CD28-negative CD4+ T cells, indicating long-term activated cells with cytotoxic ability. Therefore, this alteration of co-stimulatory molecules may modify interactions with osteoclasts and impact bone resorption.
Effects of titanium brush on machined and sand‐blasted/acid‐etched titanium disc using confocal microscopy and contact profilometry
Authors: Park Jun‐Beom , Jeon Yongpyo , Ko Youngkyung
Published: December 2013

Objective

Mechanical techniques, including scaling with metal, plastic, or ultrasonic instruments, rubber cup polishing, air‐powder abrasive system and brushing with a conventional or a rotating brush, have been used for the debridement of dental implants. Recently, rotating brushes with titanium bristles (titanium brush) have been introduced for the debridement of implant surface when peri‐implant osseous defects occur. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of a titanium brush on machined (MA) and sand‐blasted and acid‐etched (SA) titanium surfaces using scanning electron microscopy, confocal microscopy and profilometry. Moreover, correlations between the two quantitative evaluation methods (confocal microscopy and contact profilometry) were assessed.

Materials and Methods

BothMAandSAdiscs were treated with rotating titanium brush at 300 rpm under irrigation for a total of 40 s. Roughness measurements were taken with confocal microscopy and surface profilometry. Then, theMAandSAsurfaces were evaluated using scanning electron microscopy to determine the changes of the surface properties.

Results

UntreatedMAsurface demonstrated uniform roughness with circumferential machining marks, and scratch lines over the original surfaces were observed after treatment with the titanium brush. Similarly, the titanium brush produced noticeable changes on theSAtitanium surfaces. However, this treatment with titanium brush did not significantly change the roughness parameters, including the arithmetic mean height of the surface (Sa) and the maximum height of the surface (Sz), in bothMAandSAsurfaces. Correlations between two evaluation methods showed a Pearson correlation coefficient of 0.98 with linear regressionR2of 0.96.

Conclusion

This study showed that the treatment with the titanium brush did not significantly change the roughness parameters, including Sa and Sz, in bothMAandSAsurfaces. Correlations between confocal microscopy and surface profilometry showed high correlation with a Pearson correlation coefficient of 0.98.
Comparison of the accuracy of CT colonography and colonoscopy in the diagnosis of colorectal cancer
Authors: Martín‐López J. E. , Beltrán‐Calvo C. , Rodríguez‐López R. , Molina‐López T.
Published: December 2013

Aim

The available evidence was reviewed to compare the effectiveness of CT colonography with that of colonoscopy for colorectal cancer (CRC) screening.

Method

An electronic search was conducted using PubMed, EMBASE, the Cochrane Library and Centre for Reviews and Dissemination databases, from inception to July 2009. Studies were included if investigations used CT colonography for CRC screening in asymptomatic populations. Studies were excluded if investigations were conducted for the diagnosis of CRC or in elderly, high‐risk or symptomatic populations.

Results

Of the 213 references identified, nine studies were included. The specificity of CT colonography in screening for CRC was high, although it decreased with decreasing diameter of polyp to be detected. The sensitivity of CT colonography for the detection of polyps < 6 mm in diameter was low and heterogeneous, although it was higher for polyps > 10 mm. The main factors contributing to a greater sensitivity of CT colonography were the inclusion of only populations with an average CRC risk and colonic insufflation with CO2. The incidence of adverse effects was very low for both tests.

Conclusion

CT colonography has high specificity but heterogeneous sensitivity, although in most cases it is not as sensitive or specific as conventional colonoscopy. CT colonography could therefore be useful as a screening test for populations with an average risk of CRC.
Comparing the reliability of voluntary and evoked muscle actions
Authors: Jenkins Nathaniel D. M. , Palmer Ty B. , Cramer Joel T.
Published: December 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this exploratory study was to quantify the test–retest reliability, intertrial variability and correlations between variables calculated during voluntary and evoked muscle actions.

Methods

During three separate trials of isometric leg extension muscle actions with 14 men [mean age (±SD) = 21·9 (±3·2) years; height = 179·2 (±8·0) cm; mass = 77·7 (±10·9) kg], peak torque (PTV), time to peak torque (TPTV), rate of torque development (RTDV), time to peak rate of torque development (TRTDV), electromechanical delay (EMDV) and EMG amplitude (EMGRMS) were quantified for voluntary muscle actions. Peak twitch torque (PTE), time to peak twitch torque (TPTE), rate of torque development (RTDE), time to peak rate of torque development (TRTDE), electromechanical delay (EMDE), peak‐to‐peak M‐wave (Mp‐p) and M‐wave area (Marea) were calculated for evoked twitches. All electromyographic measurements were recorded over the vastus lateralis.

Results

Voluntary intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) were 0·84–0·96, except for TRTDV (0·30) and EMDV (0·74). Evoked ICC were 0·80–0·95, except for EMDE (0·52). Relative standard errors of measurement for TPT and TRTD were greater for voluntary than evoked, whereas the value for PTE was greater than PTV. There were low to moderate correlations (r = −0·41–0·51) between common voluntary and evoked variables.

Conclusions

Evoked variables showed lower intertrial variability than voluntary. Overall, voluntary and evoked muscle actions provide unique, complimentary information regarding neuromuscular function that cannot be used interchangeably.
Assessing the cost‐effectiveness of Type 1 diabetes interventions: the Sheffield Type 1 Diabetes Policy Model
Authors: Thokala P. , Kruger J. , Brennan A. , Basarir H. , Duenas A. , Pandor A. , Gillett M. , Elliott J. , Heller S.
Published: December 2013

Aims

To build a flexible and comprehensive long‐term Type 1 diabetes mellitus model incorporating the most up‐to‐date methodologies to allow a number of cost‐effectiveness evaluations.

Methods

This paper describes the conceptual modelling, model implementation and model validation of the Sheffield Type 1 Diabetes Policy Model (version 1.0), developed through funding by the UK National Institute for Health Research as part of the Dose Adjustment for Normal Eating research programme. The model is an individual patient‐level simulation model of Type 1 diabetes and it includes long‐term microvascular (retinopathy, neuropathy and nephropathy) and macrovascular (myocardial infarction, stroke, revascularization and angina) diabetes‐related complications and acute adverse events (severe hypoglycaemia and diabetic ketoacidosis). The occurrence of these diabetes‐related complications in the model is linked to simulated individual patient‐level risk factors, including HbA1c, age, duration of diabetes, lipids and blood pressure. Transition probabilities were modelled based on a combination of existing risk functions, published trials, epidemiological studies and individual‐level data from the Dose Adjustment for Normal Eating research programme.

Results

The model takes a lifetime perspective, estimating the impact of interventions on costs, clinical outcomes, survival and quality‐adjusted life years. Validation of the model suggested that, for almost all diabetes‐related complications predicted, event rates were within 10% of the normalized rates reported in the studies used to build the model.

Conclusions

The model is highly flexible and has broad potential application to evaluate the Dose Adjustment for Normal Eating research programme, other structured diabetes education programmes and other interventions for Type 1 diabetes.
Evaluation of a 5‐day education programme in Type 1 diabetes: achieving individual targets with a patient‐centred approach
Authors: Halbron M. , Sachon C. , Simon D. , Obadia T. , Grimaldi A. , Hartemann A.
Published: December 2013

Aims

To evaluate if a single inpatient education training programme can achieve individualized therapeutic targets.

Methods

Patients with Type 1 diabetes participating in a flexible intensive therapy programme were consecutively included in a prospective monocentric study. They all participated in the same education programme which had a patient‐centred approach. Before the intervention, patients were divided into three groups according to their main therapeutic target: Group 1, to decrease HbA1c concentration in patients with baseline HbA1c ≥ 58 mmol/mol (7.5%); Group 2, to improve quality of life and satisfaction with treatment in patients with baseline HbA1c < 58 mmol/mol (7.5%); and Group 3, to decrease the frequency of hypoglycaemic episodes in patients with severe or frequent hypoglycaemic episodes. Therapeutic targets were evaluated at 12 months. Quality of life and treatment satisfaction were evaluated with validated questionnaires completed at baseline and 6 months.

Results

In Group 1 (n = 74), the mean ± sd HbA1c concentration decreased from 75 ± 15 mmol/mol (9.0 ±1.4%) to 68 ±15 mmol/mol (8.4 ± 1.4%; P < 0.001), with 53% of patients experiencing a decrease in HbA1c concentration of at least 6 mmol/mol (0.5%), without weight gain or more frequent hypoglycaemia. In Group 2 (n = 12), patient satisfaction with treatment improved significantly (P < 0.0001). In Group 3 (n = 35), minor hypoglycaemia significantly decreased from a mean ± sd of 6.6 ± 4.7 to 3.2 ± 3.0 hypoglycaemic episodes/week (P < 0.001) and the incidence of severe hypoglycaemia dropped significantly from a mean ± sd of 2.31 ± 3.07 to 0.86 ± 2.46 episodes/patient/year (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Many patients with different needs, who attended the same flexible intensive therapy education programme, which had a patient‐centred approach, were able to achieve their individual therapeutic targets.
Darwin's Finch Begging Intensity Does Not Honestly Signal Need in Parasitised Nests
Authors: O'Connor Jody A. , Robertson Jeremy , Kleindorfer Sonia
Published: December 2013

Parental care should be selected to respond to honest cues that increase offspring survival. When offspring are parasitised, the parental food compensation hypothesis predicts that parents can provision extra food to compensate for energy loss due to parasitism. Chick begging behaviour is a possible mechanism to solicit increased feeding from attending parents. We experimentally manipulated parasite intensity from Philornis downsi in nests of Darwin's small ground finch (Geospiza fuliginosa) to test its effects on chick begging intensity and parental food provisioning. We used in‐nest video recordings of individually marked chicks to quantify nocturnal parasite feeding on chicks, subsequent diurnal chick begging intensity and parental feeding care. Our video analysis showed that one chick per brood had the highest parasite intensity during the night (supporting the tasty chick hypothesis) and weakest begging intensity during the day, which correlated with low parental care and rapid death. We observed sequential chick death on different days rather than total brood loss on a given day. Our within‐nest video images showed that (1) high nocturnal larval feeding correlated with low diurnal begging intensity and (2) parent birds ignored weakly begging chicks and provisioned strongly begging chicks. Excluding predation, all parasite‐free chicks survived (100% survival) and all parasitised chicks died in the nest (100% mortality). Weak begging intensity in parasitised chicks, which honestly signalled recent parasite attack, was not used as a cue for parental provisioning. Parents consistently responded to the strongest chick in both parasitised and parasite‐free nests.
The importance of free fatty acid chain length for the skin barrier function in atopic eczema patients
Authors: van Smeden Jeroen , Janssens Michelle , Kaye Edward C. J. , Caspers Peter J. , Lavrijsen Adriana P. , Vreeken Rob J. , Bouwstra Joke A.
Published: December 2013

An important feature of atopic eczema (AE) is a decreased skin barrier function. The stratum corneum (SC) lipids – comprised of ceramides (CERs), free fatty acids (FFAs) and cholesterol – fulfil a predominant role in the skin barrier function. In this clinical study, the carbon chain length distribution of SC lipids (FFAs and CERs) and their importance for the lipid organization and skin barrier function were examined in AE patients and compared with control subjects. A reduction in FFA chain length and an increase in unsaturated FFAs are observed in non‐lesional and lesional SC of AE patients. The reduction in FFA chain length associates with a reduced CER chain length, suggesting a common synthetic pathway. The lipid chain length reduction correlates with a less dense lipid organization and a decreased skin barrier function. All changes are more pronounced in lesional SC compared with non‐lesional skin. No association was observed between lipid properties and filaggrin mutations, an important predisposing factor for developing AE. The results of this study demonstrate an altered SC lipid composition and signify the importance of these changes (specifically regarding the CER and FFA chain lengths) for the impaired skin barrier function in AE. This provides insights into epidermal lipid metabolism as well as new opportunities for skin barrier repair.
Geographies of Experiment/Experimental Geographies: A Rough Guide
Authors: Kullman Kim
Published: December 2013

Geographers have increasingly employed the notion of experiment to describe the explorative styles of researching and thinking that they have elaborated in response to the complexities that characterise the present world. This article discusses the shifting uses of the notion in recent contributions, tracing out the ethical, methodological and theoretical sensibilities that it brings into geography. The article falls into two parts, the first reviewing geographies of experiment—that is, accounts exploring diverse empirical sites of experimentation, from scientific laboratories to performance art and urban spaces. The second part concentrates on experimental geographies which involve attempts by human geographers and other social and cultural researchers to reconsider their practices as experimental. Although the notion of experiment might take on varied functions and meanings, the article indicates that it offers plenty of inspiration for geographical learning and more collaborative and responsive modes of researching and thinking. © 2013 The Author(s). Geography Compass © 2013 John Wiley & Sons Ltd
House/Work: Home as a Space of Work and Consumption
Authors: Cox Rosie
Published: December 2013

This paper explores the literatures on home as a place of work and a space of consumption. Geographers have made significant contributions to our understandings of homes as spaces that are (re)made by the work and consumption that goes on within them, as well as being locales of many different forms of work (paid and unpaid) and multifarious consumption activities. The paper focuses on how work and consumption in the home intertwine. That is how consumption at home creates work and is a form of work itself. Few activities in the home are separable from the work that goes on there, and consumption is intimately tied to domestic labour. This paper explores these relationships between work and consumption in the home focusing on housework, paid domestic labour, cooking and eating and sustainable consumption.
Latin American Decolonial Thought, or Making the Subaltern Speak
Authors: Asher Kiran
Published: December 2013

The Modernity/Coloniality/Decoloniality (MCD) research program is a collective project associated with Latin America. In addition to a critique of Eurocentric “colonial modernity,” the project highlights non‐Eurocentric forms of knowing and being in the world. It also aims to foster alternative or decolonial thinking emerging from the lived colonial experiences of those situated “outside” Europe. This last is what MCD proponents claim differentiates it from postcolonial critiques of modernity with their emphasis on deconstruction. This review provides a brief but critical overview of the MCD project's parameters and claims. It makes a cautionary call to those tempted by “alternatives to modernity,” who might want to uncritically adopt alternative decolonial thinking. It concludes with a call for a closer and critical engagement with Latin American decolonial ideas and those they contest.
Abnormality of autophagic function and cathepsin expression in the liver from patients with non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Fukuo Yuka , Yamashina Shunhei , Sonoue Hiroshi , Arakawa Atsushi , Nakadera Eisuke , Aoyama Tomonori , Uchiyama Akira , Kon Kazuyoshi , Ikejima Kenichi , Watanabe Sumio
Published: December 2013

Aim

Recent evidences indicate that hepatic steatosis suppresses autophagic proteolysis. The present study evaluated the correlation between autophagic function and cathepsin expression in the liver from patients with non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).

Methods

Liver biopsy specimens were obtained from patients with chronic liver diseases (chronic hepatitis C [CHC; n = 20], chronic hepatitis B [CHB; n = 16], primary biliary cirrhosis [PBC; n = 23], NAFLD [n = 22] and control [n = 14]). The number of autophagic vesicles in hepatocytes was counted by using transmission electron microscopy. Expression of cathepsin B, D, L and p62 in the liver section was analyzed by immunohistochemical staining. The histological severity of NAFLD is assessed by NAFLD activity score (NAS).

Results

The number of autophagic vesicles in hepatocytes was significantly increased in both CHC and NAFLD groups, but not CHB and PBC, more than control. Although hepatocytes with aggregation of p62 were observed in less than 15% of CHC, p62 aggregation was detected in approximately 65% of NAFLD. Cathepsin B, D and L expression was significantly suppressed in the liver from NAFLD patients. Suppression of cathepsin B, D and L expression was not observed in CHB, CHC and PBC. In NAFLD patients, p62 aggregation was correlated with serum alanine aminotransferase value and inflammatory activity by NAS.

Conclusion

These results indicate that a decrease in hepatic cathepsin expression in NAFLD is associated with autophagic dysfunction. Hepatic inflammation correlates with autophagic dysfunction in NAFLD. These findings indicate that the suppression of autophagic proteolysis by hepatic steatosis is involved in the pathogenesis of NAFLD.
Oestrogen receptor‐beta as a potential target for treatment in advanced colorectal cancer: a pilot study
Authors: van Halteren Henk , Mulder Dries , Ruijter Emiel
Published: December 2013

Aims

Oestrogen receptor‐beta (ER‐β) is expressed in colorectal cancer. Theoretically, ER‐β stimulation could slow down tumour proliferation, and this is supported by preclinical research data. While preparing a Phase II trial for advanced colorectal cancer patients we performed a pilot study with three questions: (i) in what percentage of patients do metastases display strong ER‐β1 expression; (ii) is there any concordance in expression between primary tumours and metastases; and (iii) is the immunohistochemical (IHC) scoring procedure reproducible?

Methods and results

Thirty patients were selected, 15 with locoregional lymph node metastases and 15 with either synchronous or metachronous hepatic metastases. All primary tumours and metastases were analysed for immunohistochemical ER‐β1 expression according to a predefined scoring system. The scoring was performed independently by two pathologists in order to calculate the weighted kappa value. Strong ER‐β1 expression was found in four of 15 hepatic metastases and four of 15 lymph node metastases. In 15 of 30 patients, the level of ER‐β1 expression in the metastasis was concordant with that observed in the primary tumour. Weighted kappa values of IHC ER‐β1 expression were satisfactory.

Conclusions

In twenty‐five per cent of patients there was strong ER‐β1 expression in metastases, biopsy of which will be considered mandatory for trial inclusion.
Randomized control trial comparing calcium hydroxide and mineral trioxide aggregate for partial pulpotomies in cariously exposed pulps of permanent molars
Authors: Chailertvanitkul P. , Paphangkorakit J. , Sooksantisakoonchai N. , Pumas N. , Pairojamornyoot W. , Leela‐apiradee N. , Abbott P. V.
Published: December 2013

Aim

To compare the treatment outcomes when calcium hydroxide and mineral trioxide aggregate are used for partial pulpotomy in cariously exposed young permanent molars in a randomized control trial.

Methodology

Eighty‐four teeth in 80 volunteers (aged 7–10 years) with reversible pulpitis and carious pulp exposures were randomly divided into two groups. Exposed pulps were severed using high‐speed round burs until fresh pulp was seen. Cavities were irrigated with 2.5% sodium hypochlorite, and the pulp exposures were photographed and measured. Dycal or ProRoot MTA was placed on the pulp. Vitremer was placed over the material until the remaining cavity was 2 mm deep; amalgam was then placed. Teeth were evaluated for clinical symptoms and radiographic periapical changes after 24 h, 3 months, 6 months, 1 year and 2 years. Mean survival times and incidence of extraction were calculated using exact binomial confidence intervals.

Results

The median survival time for both ProRoot MTA and Dycal groups was 24 months. Three teeth had unfavourable outcomes with the incidence rate of 0.20/100 tooth‐months with ProRoot MTA (95% CI: 0.02–0.71) and 0.11/100 tooth‐months with Dycal (95% CI: 0.001–0.60). The incidence of unfavourable outcomes was 0.05/100 (95% CI: 0.001–0.30) and 2.38/100 (95% CI: 0.29–8.34) tooth‐months in teeth with small (<5 mm2) and large (>5 mm2) pulp exposure areas, respectively.

Conclusions

Partial pulpotomy in teeth of young patients with reversible pulpitis, either using ProRoot MTA or Dycal, resulted in favourable treatment outcomes for up to 2 years. The incidence of unfavourable outcomes tended to be higher in teeth with pulp exposure areas larger than 5 mm2.
Effect of harvest time and geographical area on sensory and instrumental texture profile of a PDO artichoke
Authors: Di Salvo Riccardo , Fadda Costantino , Sanguinetti Anna Maria , Naes Tormod , Del Caro Alessandra
Published: December 2013

A methodology of sensory and instrumental texture analysis was developed on a Protected Designation of Origin artichoke. Descriptive sensory analysis was applied on artichokes collected in two different geographical areas during the harvest time. Eight trained assessors evaluated the thistle odour, sweet, bitter, astringent, crunchy, fleshy and tender attributes. Instrumental texture, on artichoke heads and leaves, was evaluated with a texture analyser applying the cutting test and the texture profile analysis. The geographical area seems to affect the profile less than the harvest time. Instrumental texture analysis highlighted significant differences between the two geographical areas and during the harvest time. It can be assumed that, at the end of the biological cycle, artichokes are more suited to processing rather than for fresh consumption.
The effect of storage on nutritional, textural and sensory characteristics of creamy ricotta made from whey as well as cow's milk and goat's milk
Authors: Borba Karla Kalígia Silva , Silva Francyeli Araújo , Madruga Marta Suely , de Cássia Ramos do Egypto Queiroga Rita , de Souza Evandro Leite , Magnani Marciane
Published: December 2013

The aim of this study was to develop a creamy ricotta using a mixture of goat and cow whey as the main ingredients, with the addition of whole goat and cow milk. The nutritional composition, texture and sensory characteristics of the ricotta cheese were evaluated over 14 days of refrigerated storage. There was a decrease in protein and ash content and pH changes during the assessed storage periods. The instrumental texture profile indicated that the creamy ricotta was easily deformable, with minimal inelasticity and a cohesive, soft and delicate texture. The medium‐ and long‐chain fatty acid content was higher than the short‐chain fatty acid content. The flavour and aroma of creamy ricotta were described by the panel as having a soft texture and wet appearance. The use of whey from goat and cow cheese in making creamy ricotta is feasible and does not cause negative impact in the final product.
Antioxidant activities of the fractionated protein hydrolysates from heat stable defatted rice bran
Authors: Zhang Hui Juan , Wang Jing , Zhang Bing Hua , Zhang Hui
Published: December 2013

The hydrolysates from heat stable rice bran (HSDRB) treated by Alcalase 2.4L and Protease 500G were desalted and fractionated by hydrophobicity using a nonpolar, styrene divinylbenzene resin and macroporous adsorption resin DA201‐C. The antioxidant activities of HSDRB hydrolysates (HSDRBH) eluted by 25%, 50%, 75% and 100% ethanol were investigated using 2, 2‐di (4‐tertoctylphenyl)‐1‐picrylhydrazyl free radical‐scavenging activity assay, reducing power assay, ferrous ion‐chelating activity assay and lipid peroxidation inhibition assay. The HSDRBH‐75 had the highest reducing power assay and inhibition ratio of linoleic acid autoxidation, which might be associated with reduced molecular weight, amino acid composition and hydrophobicity. The highest metal‐chelating activity of four different fractions (at the concentration of 4 mg mL−1) had a positive correlation (r = 0.768, P = 0.116) with the total content of basic amino acid (Lys, Arg, and His) and a negative correlation (r = −0.886, P = 0.057) with the range of molecular weight (Mw < 1000 Da). The HSDRBH‐75 had the highest antioxidant activities in many assays, which suggests that it may become a good natural antioxidant as a food additive.
From walls to homes: Child care reform and deinstitutionalisation in Ghana
Authors: Frimpong‐Manso Kwabena
Published: December 2013

In 2006, the Ghanaian government, in partnership with the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF), began to reform the child welfare system. The main aim of this reform was to provide a sustainable and culturally appropriate system of care for children without parental care by shifting from an institutional‐based model to a family and community‐based one. Drawing on existing peer‐reviewed and grey literature, this article provides an overview of the major components of the reform, including reintegration with the extended family, foster care and adoption. In addition, the article discusses the prospects and challenges involved in achieving the reform's intended component.

Key Practitioner Message: ● Use community development techniques to raise the resources needed to provide family support services for vulnerable families; ● Social work practitioners partner with non‐governmental organisations to train community members as para‐social workers; ● Social workers, especially in developing countries, understand the challenges they face when embarking on deinstitutionalisation.
Differential transcription profiles in Aedes aegypti detoxification genes after temephos selection
Authors: Saavedra‐Rodriguez K. , Strode C. , Flores A. E. , Garcia‐Luna S. , Reyes‐Solis G. , Ranson H. , Hemingway J. , Black W. C.
Published: December 2013

The mosquito Aedes aegypti is the main vector of Dengue and Yellow Fever flaviviruses. The organophosphate insecticide temephos is a larvicide that is used globally to control Ae. aegypti populations; many of which have in turn evolved resistance. Target site alteration in the acetylcholine esterase of this species has not being identified. Instead, we tracked changes in transcription of metabolic detoxification genes using the Ae. aegypti ‘Detox Chip’ microarray during five generations of temephos selection. We selected for temephos resistance in three replicates in each of six collections, five from Mexico, and one from Peru. The response to selection was tracked in terms of lethal concentrations. Uniform upregulation was seen in the epsilon class glutathione‐S‐transferase (eGST) genes in strains from Mexico prior to laboratory selection, while eGSTs in the Iquitos Peru strain became upregulated after five generations of temephos selection. While expression of many carboxyl/cholinesterase esterase (CCE) genes increased with selection, no single esterase was consistently upregulated and this same pattern was noted in the cytochrome P450 monooxygenase (CYP) genes and in other genes involved in reduction or oxidation of xenobiotics. Bioassays using glutathione‐S‐transferase (GST), CCE and CYP inhibitors suggest that various CCEs instead of GSTs are the main metabolic mechanism conferring resistance to temephos. We show that temephos‐selected strains show no cross resistance to permethrin and that genes associated with temephos selection are largely independent of those selected with permethrin in a previous study.
Stipa zeravshanica sp. nov. (Poaceae), an endemic species from rocky walls of the western Pamir Alai Mountains (middle Asia)
Authors: Nobis Marcin , Nowak Arkadiusz , Nobis Agnieszka
Published: December 2013

Stipa zeravshanica M. Nobis sp. nov. from the western Pamir Alai Mts (Tajikistan) is described and illustrated. Morphologically, the new species is similar to S. gracilis, but it is easily distinguishable by pilose (vs. glabrous) lower part of the awn, and generally somewhat longer ligules of the vegetative shoots. Epidermal patterns of the lemma in S. zeravshanica and three other closely related taxa, namely S. gracilis, S. himalaica and S. orientalis, were examined by means of SEM. The main macro‐morphological and micro‐morphological characteristics differentiating all mentioned species are presented. Additionally, a lectotype for S. gracilis is designated. Based on phytosociological relevés prepared during field investigation in the western Pamir Alai Mts, a new plant association Asperulo albiflorae–Stipetum zeravshanicae, occurring on shelves and rocky crevices is also described.