bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Regional inequality: An analysis under the core–peripheral model
Authors: Gumpert Marcus
Published: January 2019

Desmet, Gumpert, and Ortίn have analyzed regional development using the Ricardian model or the Heckscher–Ohlin theorem. However, aspects such as consideration of combined wages, substitution elasticities, marginal costs, fixed costs, and number of companies were completely ignored. This study investigates the underdevelopment of regions in light of Krugman`s core–peripheral model. The extension of the model is intended to analyze the aspects that have so far been ignored and their influence on the benefits of the two regions. The following aspects characterize the model. Two regions with two sectors are considered for the model. The regions are characterized by different technological equipment. The first region is industrial. The second region has an agricultural character. When a new technology is available, both regions can benefit under certain conditions. The financial transfers lead to a convergence of wages.
Bismuth supplements as the first‐line regimen for Helicobacter pylori eradication therapy: Systemic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Ko Sung Woo , Kim Yeon‐Ji , Chung Woo Chul , Lee Seung Jae
Published: January 2019

Background and Aims

An increase in the use of antibiotics leads to increased antibiotic resistance of Helicobacter pylori (H pylori). Consequently, it has been considered that the first‐line standard regimen should be changed. The main purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of nonantibiotic (bismuth) supplements as a first‐line regimen for H pylori eradication.

Methods

We searched PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL, and the Cochrane Library databases for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) reported in English and undertaken up until August 2018. A meta‐analysis of all randomized controlled trials comparing bismuth supplements with non‐bismuth‐containing regimens in H pylori eradication was performed. RCTs of classic bismuth‐containing quadruple therapy as a first‐line regimen were excluded.

Results

We identified twenty‐five randomized trials (3990 patients), and the total H pylori eradication rate, according to per protocol analyzed, was 85.8%. The odds ratio was 1.83 (95% confidence interval (CI). 1.57‐2.13). Among these RCTs, there were 7 RCTs for bismuth add‐on therapy, and the odds ratio was 2.81 (95% CI. 2.03‐3.89). When the studies were performed in a high clarithromycin resistance area (≥15%) or included patients with clarithromycin resistance, bismuth‐containing regimens were superior to non‐bismuth regimens. Moreover, the incidence of total side effects was insignificant.

Conclusions

Bismuth supplements as a first‐line regimen could be effective, with bismuth add‐on regimens being the most effective. Particularly, bismuth supplements showed the potential efficacy for clarithromycin‐resistant strains and would be the most viable alternative in clinical practice.
Differential clinical impacts of tumour budding evaluated by the use of immunohistochemical and haematoxylin and eosin staining in stage II colorectal cancer
Authors: Yamadera Masato , Shinto Eiji , Kajiwara Yoshiki , Mochizuki Satsuki , Okamoto Koichi , Shimazaki Hideyuki , Hase Kazuo , Ueno Hideki
Published: January 2019

Aims

The aim of this study was to clarify the quantitative and qualitative differences in tumour budding identification between haematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining and immunohistochemical (IHC) staining for cytokeratin, and to estimate the respective clinical impacts in stage II colorectal cancer.

Methods and results

We retrospectively examined 314 surgically resected cases of stage II colorectal cancer, and assessed tumour budding on serial section slides with H&E staining and IHC staining for cytokeratin. Tumour budding counts based on cytokeratin‐stained slides were strongly correlated with those based on H&E‐stained slides, and had higher detection and reproducibility. On the basis of receiver operating characteristic analyses, the optimal cut‐off values of budding counts for relapse‐free survival (RFS) were 7 and 16 in a ×200 microscopic field with H&E and IHC staining, respectively. With these cut‐off values, tumour budding based on H&E staining had a significant correlation with RFS (80.3% and 93.2% of 5‐year RFS in the high‐budding group and the low‐budding group, respectively), and similar results were observed for IHC staining (79.9% and 91.7%, respectively). The Akaike Information Criterion value for RFS with H&E staining was favourable as compared with that with IHC staining.

Conclusions

Tumour budding counts based on cytokeratin‐stained slides showed higher detection and better reproducibility, but did not have as satisfactory clinical impacts as those based on H&E staining.
Effect of tobacco consumption on the function of male accessory sex glands
Authors: PAKRASHI A. , CHATTERJEE S.
Published: January 2019

The function of accessory sex glands in 29 tobacco smokers, 25 tobacco chewers and 30 non‐users of tobacco was investigated by determining the ejaculate contents of various glandular markers: N‐acetyl amino sugar and total phosphate (seminal vesicles) zinc and acid phosphatase (prostate gland), and α‐1,4‐glucosidase (epididymis). Both vesicular and prostatic parameters were reduced significantly in smokers compared with non‐users of tobacco, whereas these parameters were unchanged in tobacco chewers. This difference may be due either to the difference in constitution of xenobiotics emitted as a result of burning tobacco, or to differences in the pharmacokinetics of the two forms of tobacco consumption. The activity of α‐1,4‐glucosidase was significantly lowered in both types of tobacco users. It is concluded that use of tobacco, especially by smoking, impairs the secretory function of accessory sex glands in man.
Testosterone enanthate at a dose of 200 mg/week decreases HDL‐cholesterol levels in healthy men
Authors: MERIGGIOLA M. CRISTINA , MARCOVINA SANTICA , PAULSEN C. ALVIN , BREMNER WILLIAM J.
Published: January 2019

The concept that androgen alone can provide an effective male contraceptive has been tested in a multicentre, multiphase trial by the World Health Organization. Results from this trial showed that an ester of testosterone, testosterone enanthate (TE), administered at a dose of 200 mg/week, has a very high contraceptive efficacy, and suggested that, at least in some populations, androgen alone might provide a viable option for the control of male fertility. It has been claimed that testosterone represents one of the gender‐related risk factors for coronary artery disease (CAD) in men. Epidemiological and interventional studies have failed to establish a convincing relationship between testosterone and high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL‐C). Therefore, there is concern about possible negative effects on lipoprotein asset of an androgen‐alone male contraceptive. In this study we analysed the effects of long‐term (12 months) administration of TE (200 mg/week) in normal healthy men. Blood samples (six men >10 h fast = Group 1; 30 men >4 h fast = Group 2) were drawn from 36 men, monthly before the beginning of the injections (control), every 3 months throughout the study period (treatment), and 1 month after stopping TE injections (recovery). Total cholesterol (chol), triglycerides, HDL‐C and LDL‐C levels were measured in these samples. Biochemical parameters were also monitored. TE administration induced a significant decrease (15–20%) in HDL‐C levels that was of comparable magnitude in men from both groups (fasting and non‐fasting) and occurred regardless of basal HDL‐C levels. No statistically significant effect on other lipoproteins was detected. Considering all men together, HDL‐C levels were decreased in 78% of the men by month 3, 83% by month 6, 94% by month 9 and 97% by month 12 of treatment. In all men the HDL‐C decrease was reversible within 1 month of stopping TE administration. It is concluded that: (1) injection of 200 mg TE/week causes a 15–20% decrease in HDL‐C in normal men with no effect on other lipoproteins, (2) the suppressive effect of TE is maintained throughout the 1‐year‐injection period, and a direct relationship between the duration of TE administration and the proportion of men showing decreased HDL‐C levels, was observed. (3) The HDL‐C decrease was reversible within 1 month of stopping TE administration. These data will be important in designing further studies on male contraception, and in interpreting the relationship between testosterone levels, HDL‐C levels and potential cardiovascular risk.
Comparison of the effects of chlormadinone acetate‐pellet implantation and orchidectomy on benign prostatic hypertrophy in the dog
Authors: KAWAKAMI E. , TSUTSUI T. , SHIMIZU M. , ORIMA H. , FUJITA M. , OGASA A.
Published: January 2019

Five beagles out of 11 dogs aged 7–10 years with benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH) were implanted subcutaneously with pellets of the synthetic anti‐androgen chlormadinone acetate (CMA) at a dose of 10 mg/kg bodyweight. The remaining six dogs (one beagle and five mongrel dogs) underwent bilateral orchidectomy. Changes in prostatic volume, histological findings in the prostate and the testis, and peripheral plasma levels of LH, testosterone and oestradiol‐17β (E2) were assessed up until 24 and 4 weeks after CMA‐implantation and orchidectomy, respectively. Measurements of the size of the prostate and biopsies of the prostate were performed by laparotomy. Mean prostatic volume had decreased to 71% and 41%, respectively, of its pretreatment volume, by 4 weeks after CMA‐implantation and orchidectomy, and was 49% and 47%, respectively, of pretreatment volume at 12 and 24 weeks after CMA‐implantation. The clinical signs of BPH, e.g. haematuria, resolved within 2 weeks after either treatment. When the prostate was examined histologically 4 weeks after either treatment, hardly any evidence of active secretion (e.g. glandular epithelium projecting markedly into the lumen), was observed in CMA‐implanted dogs, alveolar diameter and height of the glandular epithelium had decreased markedly and the glandular lumen had become very small in the orchidectomized dogs. By 12 weeks after CMA‐implantation, degenerative and atrophic glands were observed in the prostate nearly the same as at 4 weeks after orchidectomy. In the testis the number of germ cells in the seminiferous tubules decreased markedly after CMA‐implantation. The mean level of plasma LH at 4 weeks after orchidectomy had increased to 14.9 ng/ml, twice the value before operation. The mean levels of plasma testosterone and E2 at 4 weeks after CMA‐implantation had decreased to 0.7 ng/ml and 9 pg/ml from 1.5 ng/ml and 15 pg/ml, the values before treatment, respectively. CMA‐implantation resulted in poor semen quality. The results indicate that CMA‐implantation at a dose of 10 mg/kg results in the same prostate‐shrinking effect as orchidectomy.
In‐situ quantification of stage‐specific apoptosis in the rat seminiferous epithelium: effects of short‐term experimental cryptorchidism
Authors: HENRIKSÉN K. , HAKOVIRTA H. , PARVINEN M.
Published: January 2019

Two techniques have been combined for quantification of apoptotic germ cells in defined stages of the cycle of the seminiferous epithelium: the improved transillumination method and nonradioactive in‐situ end‐labelling of DNA (ISEL). Segments of rat seminiferous tubules were squashed between a microscope slide and coverslip, and the stage identified under a phase‐contrast microscope. After fixation, apoptotic cells were detected by ISEL and scored per 1 mm tubule. In the normal testis apoptotic cells were found in all stages, the highest frequency occurring in stages XII–XIV (19 cells/mm). In short‐term (24 and 48 h) experimentally cryptorchid testes, a significant increase in number of apoptotic germ cells was evident in all stages, except for VI and VIII. Apoptosis of germ cells was confirmed by electrophoresis of radioactively labelled DNA from stages VII–VIII and XIII‐I. It is proposed that apoptosis is a means of eliminating the most sensitive germ cells after short‐term experimental cryptorchidism.
A systematic review exploring characteristics of lifestyle modification interventions in newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes for delivery in community pharmacy†
Authors: Katangwe Thando , Bhattacharya Debi , Twigg Michael J
Published: January 2019

Objectives

The aim of this systematic review was to examine the characteristics of effective lifestyle modification interventions designed for patients with newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in order to determine elements that have the potential to be delivered in the community pharmacy setting.

Key findings

Seven studies, comprising three each of the interventions diet and structured education and one of supported exercise, were identified. Interventions were conducted in hospital diabetes clinics and clinics situated in both urban and rural areas. Interventions were delivered face to face by highly skilled personnel including physicians, nurses and dietitians. Duration of interventions ranged from 3 months to 5 years.

Structured education and dietary interventions in newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes effectively controlled blood glucose levels without pharmacological intervention. Important characteristics included face to face, individualised and multicomponent interventions with a duration of at least 6 months. These characteristics demonstrate potential for delivery in a community pharmacy setting, given its current involvement in delivering face to face, individual services with diet and lifestyle components. Further research is required to provide evidence for ideal intervention duration and frequency as well as training requirements for pharmacists.
Antibody opsonization enhances MAIT cell responsiveness to bacteria via a TNF‐dependent mechanism
Authors: Bánki Zoltán , Krabbendam Lisette , Klaver Dominik , Leng Tianqi , Kruis Simon , Mehta Hema , Müllauer Brigitte , Orth‐Höller Dorothea , Stoiber Heribert , Willberg Christian B , Klenerman Paul
Published: January 2019

Mucosal‐associated invariant T (MAIT) cells are an abundant human T‐cell subset with antimicrobial properties. They can respond to bacteria presented via antigen‐presenting cells (APCs) such as macrophages, which present bacterially derived ligands from the riboflavin synthesis pathway on MR1. Moreover, MAIT cells are also highly responsive to cytokines which enhance and even substitute for T‐cell receptor‐mediated signaling. The mechanisms leading to an efficient presentation of bacteria to MAIT cells by APCs have not been fully elucidated. Here, we showed that the monocytic cell line THP‐1 and B cells activated MAIT cells differentially in response to Escherichia coli. THP‐1 cells were generally more potent in inducing IFNγ and IFNγ/TNF production by MAIT cells. Furthermore, THP‐1, but not B, cells produced TNF upon bacterial stimulation, which in turn supported IFNγ production by MAIT cells. Finally, we addressed the role of antibody‐dependent opsonization of bacteria in the activation of MAIT cells using in vitro models. We found that opsonization had a substantial impact on downstream MAIT cell activation by monocytes. This was associated with enhanced activation of monocytes and increased TNF release. Importantly, this TNF acted in concert with other cytokines to drive MAIT cell activation. These data indicate both a significant interaction between adaptive and innate immunity in the response to bacteria, and an important role for TNF in MAIT cell triggering.
Comparison of clinical outcomes between intravascular ultrasound‐guided and angiography‐guided drug‐eluting stent implantation: A meta‐analysis of randomised control trials and systematic review
Authors: Tan Yu‐Ying , Man Xia‐Xia , Liu Ling‐Yun , Xu Hui
Published: January 2019

This systematic review was designed to evaluate the overall efficacy of angiography‐guided drug‐eluting stent (DES) implantation vs intravascular ultrasound‐guided (IVUS) implantation for percutaneous coronary intervention. The electronic databases CENTRAL, PubMed, Cochrane, and EMBASE were searched for systematic reviews to investigate angiography‐guided and IVUS‐guided DES implantation. We measured the following six parameters in each patient: cardiovascular death, stent thrombosis, target lesion revascularisation (TLR), myocardial infarction (MI), major adverse cardiac events (MACEs), and all‐cause death. Twelve studies involving 6268 subjects were included, with 2984 receiving IVUS‐guided DES implantation and 3284 using angiography‐guided DES implantation. With regard to MACEs, TLR, MI, cardiovascular death, and all‐cause death, the IVUS‐guided DES implantation group had remarkably improved clinical outcomes. However, there was no significant statistical difference in stent thrombosis between the two groups. Dramatic decrease in MACEs through IVUS guidance was presented by trial sequential analysis. Remarkably improved clinical outcomes, including MACEs, cardiovascular death, all‐cause death, and TLR, were identified through IVUS‐guided DES implantation in comparison with angiography‐guided DES implantation. Nonetheless, the effect on stent thrombosis and MI required further confirmation. In this meta‐analysis, eligible randomised clinical trials were warranted to verify the findings and to determine the beneficial effect of IVUS guidance for patients.
Fabrication and characterization of IR‐transparent Fe2+ doped MgAl2O4 ceramics
Authors: Osipov Vladimir V. , Shitov Vladislav A. , Maksimov Roman N. , Lukyashin Konstantin E. , Solomonov Vladimir I. , Ishchenko Aleksey V.
Published: January 2019

Initial investigations on the preparation of highly transparent Fe2+:MgAl2O4 ceramics using nanopowders synthesized in a laser plume were carried out. For the first time, dense Fe2+:MgAl2O4 ceramics with high transmission in the mid‐IR range were fabricated at a temperature as low as 1300°C and with a short sintering time (1 hour). The obtained Fe2+:MgAl2O4 ceramics contain a secondary (MgO)0.91(FeO)0.09 phase with a low wt% content, causing a substantial decrease in transmittance in the visible range. The transmittance increases with an increase in wavelength due to a decrease in Rayleigh scattering and reaches 85.6% at λ = 4 μm, which is close to the theoretical value. The absorption cross section of divalent iron ions was estimated to be σ = (1.66 ± 0.14) × 10−20 cm2.
Effects of electrostatic field strength on grain‐boundary core structures in SrTiO3
Authors: Hughes Lauren A. , van Benthem Klaus
Published: January 2019

Understanding interactions between externally applied electric fields and the interfacial structures of nanoscale ceramics is important for controlling their functional properties. In ceramic oxides, functional properties are determined by oxygen vacancy concentrations near and within grain‐boundary core structures. In this study it is shown that the application of electrostatic fields ranging from 0 to nominally 170 V/cm during diffusion bonding of bicrystals alters the atomic and electronic core structures of (100) twist grain boundaries in SrTiO3. The applied electric field strength affects local oxygen vacancy concentrations and ordering of the oxygen sublattice. Results for this model system indicate that electrostatic fields applied during ceramic manufacturing can be employed as a new processing parameter to tailor defect structure configurations and obtain unprecedented ceramic microstructures. The ability to manipulate interface configurations with electric fields in the absence of any sintering additives may have far reaching implications for tuning polarization and band structures in electroceramics while avoiding effects of often unwanted dopants.
Nurses’ decision‐making, practices and perceptions of patient involvement in medication administration in an acute hospital setting
Authors: Bucknall Tracey , Fossum Mariann , Hutchinson Alison M. , Botti Mari , Considine Julie , Dunning Trisha , Hughes Lee , Weir‐Phyland Janet , Digby Robin , Manias Elizabeth
Published: January 2019

Aims

To describe nurses’ decision‐making, practices and perceptions of patient involvement in medication administration in acute hospital settings.

Background

Medication errors cause unintended harm to patients. Nurses have a major role in ensuring patient safety in medication administration practices in hospital settings. Investigating nurses’ medication administration decision‐making and practices and their perceptions of patient involvement, may assist in developing interventions by revealing how and when to involve patients during medication administration in hospital.

Design

A descriptive exploratory study design.

Methods

Twenty nurses were recruited from two surgical and two medical wards of a major metropolitan hospital in Australia. Each nurse was observed for 4 hr, then interviewed after the observation. Data were collected over six months in 2015. Observations were captured on an electronic case report form; interviews were audio‐recorded and transcribed verbatim. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and content and thematic analysis.

Results

Ninety‐five medication administration episodes, of between two and eight episodes per nurse, were observed. A total of 56 interruptions occurred with 26 of the interruptions being medication related. Four major themes emerged from the interviews: dealing with uncertainty; facilitating, framing and filtering information; managing interruptions and knowing and involving patients.

Conclusion

Nurses work in complex adaptive systems that change moment by moment. Acknowledging and understanding the cognitive workload and complex interactions are necessary to improve patient safety and reduce errors during medication administration. Knowing and involving the patient is an important part of a nurses’ medication administration safety strategies.
N‐glycoproteins exhibit a positive expression level–evolutionary rate correlation
Authors: Feyertag Felix , Berninsone Patricia M. , Alvarez‐Ponce David
Published: January 2019

The different proteins of any proteome evolve at enormously different rates. One of the primary factors influencing rates of protein evolution is expression level, with highly expressed proteins tending to evolve at slow rates. This phenomenon, known as the expression level–evolutionary rate (E–R) anticorrelation, has been attributed to the abundance‐dependent deleterious effects of misfolding or misinteraction. We have recently shown that secreted proteins either lack an E–R anticorrelation or exhibit a significantly reduced E–R anticorrelation. This effect may be due to the strict quality control to which secreted proteins are subject in the endoplasmic reticulum (which is expected to reduce the rate of misfolding and its deleterious effects) or to their extracellular location (expected to reduce the rate of misinteraction and its deleterious effects). Among secreted proteins, N‐glycosylated ones are under particularly strong quality control. Here, we investigate how N‐linked glycosylation affects the E–R anticorrelation. Strikingly, we observe a positive E–R correlation among N‐glycosylated proteins. That is, N‐glycoproteins that are highly expressed evolve at faster rates than lowly expressed N‐glycoproteins, in contrast to what is observed among intracellular proteins.
Development and validation of mathematical modeling for terminal velocity of cantaloupe
Authors: Moradi Mehdi , Mousavi Khaneghah Amin , Parvaresh Majid , Balanian Hossein
Published: January 2019

Terminal velocity is an important factor, which is useful for designing different unit operations such as hydro transport and sorting of fruits. The current investigation is aimed to propose a new dimensionless model for terminal velocity of cantaloupe fruit. For this purpose, 30 fruits from three different varieties commonly known as Jana, Gerdabadi, and Shahabadi randomly were collected and, then, the physical properties, which may affect terminal velocity, were determined. On the basis of Buckingham theorem, six dimensionless groups were recognized and established to be used for dimensionless modeling of terminal velocity of cantaloupe fruit. Dependent pi‐term versus each independent pi‐term was drawn, and regression analysis was applied to draw the curves to produce linear equations, which can be used in the construction of the dimensionless model. In order to evaluate the obtained model, terminal velocity of six randomly selected fruits from each cantaloupe variety were measured and compared with the predicted terminal velocity values. A good agreement was achieved between the experimental and the predicted terminal velocities. Also, the coefficient of determination, mean bias error, and mean relative deviation of the comparison were calculated as 0.90, 7.9, and 10.35%, respectively. In this context, the obtained model can be used as an appropriate procedure for the prediction of terminal velocity of cantaloupe fruit as well as other similar fruits with good accuracy.

Practical applications

Development of a generalized dimensionless model describing terminal velocity of cantaloupe fruit as a function of various physical characteristics can be used in different units of food industries such as fruit compote preparation and juicer industries. It may also be used for the designation of sorting units and hydro transport of different fruits. In other words, the obtained model could be used to sketch unit operations, which involve some postharvesting activities for cantaloupe fruits.
The association of life events and mental ill health in older adults with intellectual disability: results of the wave 3 Intellectual Disability Supplement to The Irish Longitudinal Study on Ageing
Authors: Bond L. , Carroll R. , Mulryan N. , O'Dwyer M. , O'Connell J. , Monaghan R. , Sheerin F. , McCallion P. , McCarron M.
Published: January 2019

Background

Exposures to life events are associated with emotional, psychological and behavioural problems in those with intellectual disability (ID). Older adults with ID may experience different life events given differences in living circumstances, cognitive decline, greater dependency on others and less autonomy. This study examines the relationship of life events and mental ill health in an older ID population in Ireland.

Methods

The study was part of ‘The Intellectual Disability Supplement to The Irish Longitudinal Study on Ageing’. The frequency of life events was assessed using a 20‐item checklist, and the level of stress experienced was assessed using a three‐point Likert scale measuring the burden of the life event. The associations of life events with factors associated with mental ill health were measured using a variety of self‐report and proxy completed questionnaires.

Results

For the study population, 88.1% had been exposed to at least one life event in the preceding 12 months and 64.5% to two or more life events. Frequency and burden of life events were significantly higher in individuals living in institutional settings and in individuals with any current psychiatric condition, increased depressive and anxiety symptoms, challenging behaviour and reported poorer self‐rated mental and physical health. More life events were significantly associated with new psychiatric diagnoses as well as initiation and increased dosage of mood stabilising, hypnotic and sedative medications.

Conclusions

Life events are significantly associated with mental ill health in the older ID population. Service providers must focus on limiting the exposure to these events and, in situations where they cannot be avoided, should support and manage individuals compassionately and effectively, prioritising their mental and physical well‐being.
Cross‐cultural adaptation and psychometric testing of the Verbal and Social Interaction Questionnaire: A cross‐sectional study among nursing students in China
Authors: Zhang Min , Ge Li , Rask Mikael
Published: January 2019

Aims and objectives

To develop and validate the Chinese version of Verbal and Social Interaction Questionnaire for Nursing Students.

Background

The development of caring interaction skills is particularly important for achieving better nursing student–patient interactions. Nursing students in China, as in most countries, have often failed to establish a caring interaction with their patients. There is a lack of instruments to explore the difficulties and problems in nursing student–patient interactions in China.

Design

A descriptive, cross‐sectional survey was carried out.

Methods

Data for cross‐cultural adaptation and psychometric testing purposes were collected between May 10, 2017 and November 11, 2017. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses were performed; pilot testing, content validity and reliability were assessed for the translated questionnaire. EQUATOR guidelines for observational studies (strengthening the reporting of observational studies in epidemiology) were applied.

Results

716 nursing students from four universities in China completed the questionnaire. A pilot testing (n = 32) was conducted at a university hospital. The internal consistency reliability and the intra‐class correlation coefficients were satisfactory. The overall content validity index was 0.95. Exploratory factor analysis resulted in a four‐factor solution, explaining 61.26% of the variance, and the items had factor loadings ranging from 0.46–0.82. The final model's fit indexes were relatively acceptable. Overall, this instrument demonstrated sound psychometric properties.

Conclusion

The Chinese version of Verbal and Social Interaction Questionnaire for Nursing Students has a high level of reliability and acceptable content validity. However, some values in the construct validity assessment were lower than was hypothesised, suggesting a need for further model modification.

Relevance to clinical practice

This easy‐to‐use instrument may help nursing educators, clinicians and managers in the assessment and development of students’ interactional skills during their training or student–nurse transition period. Using the questionnaire could both provide the students with a greater understanding of caring interactions and help the nursing educators gain a better comprehension of the students’ verbal, social and interactional skills.
Taste sensitivity, food preferences, and physical activity pattern associated with nutritional status of adolescents
Authors: Santos Marize Melo dos , Marreiros Camila Santos , de Oliveira Ana Raquel Soares , de Freitas Suelem Torres , Cruz Kyria Jayanne Clímaco
Published: January 2019

The objective of this study was to evaluate the influence of taste sensitivity, food preferences, and pattern of physical activity on the nutritional status of public school adolescents. A cross‐sectional study was carried out involving 952 adolescents of both genders and aged 10–19 years, divided into two groups: overweight, n = 238 and eutrophic, n = 714. Taste sensitivity, food preferences, physical activity pattern, and nutritional status were evaluated. Most adolescents failed in the sensitivity test. There was a significant association between sensitivity to salty taste and preference for evaluated tastes and nutritional status. It was verified that adolescents devote, on average, 6 hr a day with sedentary activities. Age and time spent exercising were positively associated with body mass index. Adolescents presented low taste sensitivity and prefer sweet taste while overweight individuals prefer salty. The study reveals the influence of parameters related to food preferences and physical activity patterns on the nutritional status of the youth.

Practical applications

Changes in sensitivity taste, dietary preferences, and in the pattern of physical activity influence the nutritional status of young. Understanding these relationships may contribute to the development of intervention strategies to prevent the onset or worsening of diseases associated with nutritional status.
Phenotypic, hormonal, and clinical characteristics of equine endocrinopathic laminitis
Authors: de Laat Melody A. , Sillence Martin N. , Reiche Dania B.
Published: January 2019

Background

Equine endocrinopathic laminitis is common and can be associated with an underlying endocrinopathy, such as equine metabolic syndrome (EMS), pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction (PPID), pasture consumption, or any combination of these factors.

Objectives

The aim of the study was to improve the risk assessment capabilities of clinicians, and to inform management strategies, for acute endocrinopathic laminitis by prospectively examining the phenotypic, hormonal, and clinical characteristics of the disease in a large cohort.

Animals

Privately owned horses and ponies (n = 301) of any age, sex, or breed diagnosed with laminitis by a veterinarian. A history of laminitis was acceptable.

Methods

This was a prospective cohort study. Veterinarians provided information on each case via an online questionnaire after informed consent from the animal's owner, and all data were de‐identified before analysis. Serum insulin and plasma adrenocorticotrophic hormone concentrations were measured in each case.

Results

Most cases were recruited in spring (109/301; 36.2%). Concurrent EMS and PPID resulted in higher basal insulin concentrations (49 [21.5‐141]; P < .02) than if an animal had a single underlying cause for their laminitis. The insulin concentration was negatively correlated (r2 = −0.38; P < .001) with the animal's height, being higher in ponies (33[10‐14]; P < .001) than horses (9.5 [3‐25.7]) and was positively correlated (r2 = 0.12; P = .05) with their grade (severity) of laminitis.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Horses and ponies with concurrent endocrinopathies have more marked hyperinsulinemia. Higher basal insulin concentrations were associated with more severe lameness.
Klotho‐beta and fibroblast growth factor 19 expression correlates with early recurrence of resectable hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Lin Zhong‐Zhe , Hsu Chiun , Jeng Yung‐Ming , Hu Fu‐Chang , Pan Hung‐Wei , Wu Yao‐Ming , Hsu Hey‐Chi , Cheng Ann‐Lii
Published: January 2019

Background and Aims

Fibroblast growth factor 19 (FGF19) and fibroblast growth factor receptor 4 (FGFR4) signalling play critical roles in hepatocarcinogenesis. This study explored the potential of FGF19‐ and FGFR4‐related biomarkers in predicting early tumour recurrence (ETR) and survival in patients with resectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

Methods

We examined the mRNA expressions of FGF19, FGFR4, klotho‐beta (KLB), cyclin D1 (CCND1) and FGF4 in 151 surgically resected, primary unifocal HCCs through quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction. Generalized additive models were fitted to detect nonlinear effects of continuous covariates and define thresholds of biomarker expressions. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to evaluate prognostic values of these biomarkers for tumour recurrence and patient survival.

Results

Overexpression of FGF19, FGFR4, KLB, CCND1 and FGF4 mRNA was detected in 40%, 32%, 26%, 15% and 35% of 151 tumours respectively. ETR was the strongest prognostic factor predicting worse overall survival (hazard ratio [HR], 5.678; 95% confidence interval, 3.7‐8.713; P < 0.001). Furthermore, we revealed that mRNA expression levels of KLB (HR, 3.857; P = 0.021) and FGF19 (HR, 3.248; P = 0.017) were significantly associated with the occurrence of ETR.

Conclusions

Frequent overexpression of FGF19/FGFR4‐related biomarkers was detected in resectable HCC. Expression levels of KLB and FGF19 may determine patient survival outcomes through their effects on ETR.
The interaction of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and smoking on mortality among adults in the United States
Authors: Wijarnpreecha Karn , Scribani Melissa , Kim Donghee , Kim W. Ray
Published: January 2019

Background & Aims

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has become the most common liver disease in Western countries. Smoking and diabetes mellitus (DM) have been shown to increase mortality; however, whether NAFLD adds to the detrimental effect of smoking in DM and non‐DM patients is unknown. We evaluated the possible interactive effect of NAFLD and smoking on mortality risk in a US population‐based sample.

Methods

Cross‐sectional data from 11 205 participants in the third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey were analysed. NAFLD was defined as ultrasonographic hepatic steatosis without evidence of other liver diseases. Proportional hazards regression modelling was used to test for the multiplicative interaction of NAFLD and smoking on overall mortality, controlling for DM.

Results

36.5% of the participants had NAFLD of whom 21.1% were current smokers, while among non‐NAFLD subjects, 26.2% reported current smoking. Smoking was associated with a hazard ratio (HR) of 2.23 (95% confidence interval (CI): 1.87‐2.65) among non‐NAFLD subjects, and 2.31 (95% CI: 1.33‐2.92, P < 0.01) among NAFLD patients. In contrast, the HR for NAFLD was 1.01 (95% CI: 0.78‐1.31, P = 0.96) among smokers and 0.98 (95% CI: 0.87‐1.10, P = 0.73) among non‐smokers. There was no evidence of interaction between NAFLD and smoking (HR = 1.01, 95% CI: 0.74‐1.38, P = 0.94) in the combined model.

Conclusion

We found that smoking increased mortality by two‐fold among the US population. Although the magnitude of the increase in mortality did not differ from that in non‐NAFLD subjects, smoking represents a modifiable determinant of long‐term outcomes in NAFLD patients.
The “Fill the Nutrient Gap” analysis: An approach to strengthen nutrition situation analysis and decision making towards multisectoral policies and systems change
Authors: Bose Indira , Baldi Giulia , Kiess Lynnda , de Pee Saskia
Published: January 2019

Improved nutrition situation analysis can increase the understanding of the likely magnitude and main causes of the nutrient gap among a particular target group, for example, children under 2 or pregnant and lactating women, in a particular context. The World Food Programme, with input from University of California Davis, International Food Policy Research Institute, Epicentre, Harvard University, Mahidol University, Save the Children, and UNICEF, has developed a framework for strengthened nutrition situation analysis and decision making called the “Fill the Nutrient Gap” (FNG), which aims to support identification of strategies to increase availability, access, and choice of nutritious foods, to ultimately improve nutrient intake. The FNG engages stakeholders from different sectors throughout the analytical process to provide input and discuss findings to collectively identify and prioritize context‐specific strategies. The FNG analysis contributes to better understanding the nutrition situation because it (a) focuses on the dietary intake side of the malnutrition framework and analyses in‐depth the nutrient intake of different target groups; (b) linear programming is used in combination with review of secondary data to characterize barriers to nutrient intake, in particular to understand the availability, cost and affordability of nutritious diets for households and target groups with higher nutritional needs, and model potential interventions to improve them; (c) it links the nutrition situation analysis to decision making by providing an evidence base for decision makers to inform their strategies; (d) it facilitates multisectoral discussion on barriers to nutrient intake and enables a prioritization of context‐specific strategies (both nutrition specific and sensitive) to improve the nutrition situation across food, health, and social protection systems.
Our current sense of anxiety or after Gellner*
Authors: Hall John A.
Published: January 2019

The paper begins by describing three elements of Gellner's social philosophy that lay behind his essentially optimistic version of liberalism. The argument that follows suggests that all these elements – respect for the procedures of modern science, general participation in a growing economy and ‘ironic’ nationalism – are under attack. In consequence, we live again in an age of anxiety.
Risk factors for upper and lower functional gastrointestinal disorders in Persian Gulf War Veterans during and post‐deployment
Authors: Tuteja Ashok K. , Talley Nicholas J. , Stoddard Gregory J. , Samore Matthew H. , Verne G. Nicholas
Published: January 2019

Background

Gastroenteritis is a risk factor for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), but its role in other functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs) is less clear. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of FGIDs in Gulf War (GW) Veterans before, during, and after deployment and to determine whether gastroenteritis was a risk factor for upper and lower FGIDs.

Methods

The Veterans who served during the Persian GW were mailed validated questionnaires inquiring about their bowel habits, psychological and extra‐intestinal symptoms, and quality of life (QOL). The lactulose hydrogen breath test (LBT) was performed for small intestinal bacterial overgrowth.

Key Results

Data were analyzed from 468 GW Veterans. The prevalence of FGID before, during, and 16 years after deployment was 15.7%, 49.9%, and 64.2%, respectively. New FGIDs during deployment was reported by 41.2%, and during 16 years after deployment, 43.7% acquired new FGIDs. FGIDs were associated with psychological disorders, extra‐intestinal symptoms, and lower QOL. Gastroenteritis was reported by 44.3% of deployed Veterans and was a risk factor for IBS, dyspepsia, and functional diarrhea post‐deployment. The cases and controls did not differ significantly in the frequency of positive LBT.

Conclusions and Inferences

There is an increase in the prevalence of FGIDs during deployment, and it persists after deployment. There is a further increase in the prevalence of FGIDs after deployment. In addition to IBS, gastroenteritis during deployment is a risk factor for dyspepsia and functional diarrhea post‐deployment. Therefore, prevention of gastroenteritis during deployment and screening of Veterans for FGIDs post‐deployment would be of value for Veterans' long‐term health.
ΔTraitSDMs: species distribution models that account for local adaptation and phenotypic plasticity
Authors: Benito Garzón Marta , Robson T. Matthew , Hampe Arndt
Published: January 2019

Improving our understanding of species ranges under rapid climate change requires application of our knowledge of the tolerance and adaptive capacity of populations to changing environmental conditions. Here, we describe an emerging modelling approach, ΔTraitSDM, which attempts to achieve this by explaining species distribution ranges based on phenotypic plasticity and local adaptation of fitness‐related traits measured across large geographical gradients. The collection of intraspecific trait data measured in common gardens spanning broad environmental clines has promoted the development of these new models – first in trees but now rapidly expanding to other organisms. We review, explain and harmonize the main findings from this new generation of models that, by including trait variation over geographical scales, are able to provide new insights into future species ranges. Overall, ΔTraitSDM predictions generally deliver a less alarming message than previous models of species distribution under new climates, indicating that phenotypic plasticity should help, to a considerable degree, some plant populations to persist under climate change. The development of ΔTraitSDMs offers a new perspective to analyse intraspecific variation in single and multiple traits, with the rationale that trait (co)variation and consequently fitness can significantly change across geographical gradients and new climates.
The tomato Pto gene confers resistance to Pseudomonas floridensis, an emergent plant pathogen with just nine type III effectors
Authors: Eckshtain‐Levi N. , Lindeberg M. , Vallad G. E. , Martin G. B.
Published: January 2019

A newly discovered bacterial species, Pseudomonas floridensis, has emerged as a pathogen of tomato in Florida. This study compares the virulence and other attributes of P. floridensis to Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato, which causes bacterial speck disease of tomato. Pseudomonas floridensis reached lower population levels in leaves of tomato as compared to the P. syringae pv. tomato strains DC3000 and NYT1. Analysis of the genome sequence of the P. floridensis type strain GEV388 revealed that it has just nine type III effectors including AvrPtoBGEV388, which is 66% identical to AvrPtoB in DC3000. Five of these effectors have been previously reported to be members of a ‘minimal effector repertoire’ required for full DC3000 virulence on Nicotiana benthamiana; however, GEV388 grew poorly on leaves of this plant species compared to the DC3000 minimal effector strain. The tomato Pto gene recognizes AvrPtoB in race 0 P. syringae pv. tomato strains, thereby conferring resistance to bacterial speck disease. Pto was also found to confer resistance to P. floridensis, indicating this gene will be useful in the protection of tomato against this newly emerged pathogen.
Understanding country‐specific determinants of stillbirth using household surveys: The case of Afghanistan
Authors: Christou Aliki , Dibley Michael J. , Rasooly Mohammad Hafiz , Mubasher Adela , Hofiani Sayed Murtaza Sadat , Rashidi Mohammad Khakerah , Kelly Patrick J. , Raynes‐Greenow Camille
Published: January 2019

Background

Stillbirth rates in Afghanistan have declined little in the past decade with no data available on key risk factors. Health care utilisation and maternal complications are important factors influencing pregnancy outcomes but rarely captured for stillbirth in national surveys from low‐ and middle‐income countries. The 2010 Afghanistan Mortality Survey (AMS) is one of few surveys with this information.

Methods

We used data from the 2010 AMS that included a full pregnancy history and verbal autopsy. Our sample included the most recent live birth or stillbirth of 13 834 women aged 12‐49 years in the three years preceding the survey. Multivariable Poisson regression was used to identify sociodemographic, maternal, and health care utilisation risk factors for stillbirth.

Results

The risk of stillbirth was increased among women in the Central Highlands (aRR: 3.01, 95% CI 1.35, 6.70) and of Nuristani ethnicity (aRR: 9.15, 95% CI 2.95, 28.74). Women who did not receive antenatal care had three times increased risk of stillbirth (aRR: 3.03, 95% CI 1.73, 5.30), while high‐quality antenatal care was important for reducing the risk of intrapartum stillbirth. Bleeding, infection, headache, and reduced fetal movements were antenatal complications strongly associated with stillbirth. Reduced fetal movements in the delivery period increased stillbirth risk by almost seven (aRR: 6.82, 95% CI 4.20, 11.10). Facility births had a higher risk of stillbirths overall (aRR: 1.55, 95% CI 1.12, 2.16), but not for intrapartum stillbirths.

Conclusions

Targeted interventions are needed to improve access and utilisation of services for high‐risk groups. Early detection of complications through improved quality of antenatal and obstetric care is imperative. We demonstrate the potential of household surveys to provide country‐specific evidence on stillbirth risk factors for LMICs where data are lacking.