bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Balance of antiangiogenic and angiogenic factors in the context of the etiology of preeclampsia
Authors: Seki Hiroyuki
Published: August 2014

The “two‐stage disorder” theory that is assumed for the etiology of preeclampsia hypothesizes that antiangiogenic and angiogenic factors and/or placental debris play an important role in this disorder. The physiological actions of placental debris occur via the balance between antiangiogenic and angiogenic factors. Accordingly, this balance between antiangiogenic and angiogenic factors should be investigated to elucidate the various pathological features of preeclampsia. Their accurate evaluation is needed to investigate not only antiangiogenic factors (such as sFlt‐1 and sEng) and angiogenic factors (such as vascular endothelial growth factor, placental growth factor and transforming growth factor‐β) but also the expression level of their receptors such as Flt‐1 and Eng. However, it is ethically and technically difficult to investigate the above‐mentioned factors at antepartum in human patients. The examination of the ratios of sFlt‐1/vascular endothelial growth factor receptor ligands and sEng/transforming vascular endothelial growth factor‐β and the use of experimental animal models may help in elucidating various unresolved issues in preeclampsia.
Rituximab in the treatment of autoimmune haemolytic anaemia
Authors: Rodrigo Chaturaka , Rajapakse Senaka , Gooneratne Lallindra
Published: August 2014

Rituximab is a B‐cell depleting monoclonal antibody that is gaining popularity as an effective therapy for many autoimmune cytopenias. This article systematically evaluates its therapeutic efficacy in the treatment of different types of autoimmune haemolytic anaemia. We conclude that there is sufficient evidence to recommend it as a second line therapy for warm autoimmune haemolytic anaemia (wAIHA) either as monotherapy or combined therapy. Evidence from a single randomized controlled trial suggests that it may also be more efficacious as first line therapy in combination with steroids than steroids alone. A fewer number of studies have assessed its role in cold autoimmune haemolytic anaemia (cAIHA) and cold agglutinin disease (CAD) with success rates varying from 45–66%. In the absence of alternative definitive therapy, rituximab should be considered for patients with symptomatic CAD and significant haemolysis. Case reports of its efficacy in mixed autoimmune haemolytic anaemias are available but evidence from case series or larger cohorts are nonexistent.
CD30 expression in de novo diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma: a population‐based study from British Columbia
Authors: Slack Graham W. , Steidl Christian , Sehn Laurie H. , Gascoyne Randy D.
Published: August 2014

Diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is a heterogeneous disease with variable therapeutic responses and alternative therapies are needed for patients with unfavourable treatment outcomes after standard treatment with R‐CHOP (rituximab, cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, prednisone). One promising candidate is brentuximab vedotin, an antibody‐drug conjugate targeting CD30‐expressing cells. However, CD30 (TNFRSF8) expression patterns in DLBCL are not well described thus far. Here, we examined CD30 expression in a population‐based cohort of immunocompetent patients from British Columbia with de novo DLBCL using immunohistochemistry. 385 cases of formalin‐fixed paraffin‐embedded DLBCL in tissue microarrays were evaluated. 95 cases (25%) harboured CD30+ tumour cells. Using a > 0% cut‐off, CD30 expression was predictive of superior 5‐year progression‐free survival within R‐CHOP treated germinal centre B‐cell‐like (GCB) DLBCL (86% vs. 64%, P = 0·020), which was independent of the International Prognostic Index. Epstein‐Barr virus (EBV) was identified in 11 (3%) cases, all of which were non‐GCB (P = 0·001) and almost exclusively positive for CD30 expression (10/11) (P < 0·001). We conclude CD30 is expressed in a substantial proportion of DLBCL and CD30 immunohistochemistry may be a useful prognostic marker in R‐CHOP treated GCB‐DLBCL. The significant association of CD30 with EBV‐positive non‐GCB DLBCL suggests a distinct pathobiology for these cases.
DNA demethylation and invasive cancer: implications for therapeutics
Authors: Cheishvili David , Boureau Lisa , Szyf Moshe
Published: August 2014

One of the hallmarks of cancer is aberrant DNA methylation, which is associated with abnormal gene expression. Both hypermethylation and silencing of tumour suppressor genes as well as hypomethylation and activation of prometastatic genes are characteristic of cancer cells. As DNA methylation is reversible, DNA methylation inhibitors were tested as anticancer drugs with the idea that such agents would demethylate and reactivate tumour suppressor genes. Two cytosine analogues, 5‐azacytidine (Vidaza) and 5‐aza‐2′‐deoxycytidine, were approved by the Food and Drug Administration as antitumour agents in 2004 and 2006 respectively. However, these agents might cause activation of a panel of prometastatic genes in addition to activating tumour suppressor genes, which might lead to increased metastasis. This poses the challenge of how to target tumour suppressor genes and block cancer growth with DNA‐demethylating drugs while avoiding the activation of prometastatic genes and precluding the morbidity of cancer metastasis. This paper reviews current progress in using DNA methylation inhibitors in cancer therapy and the potential promise and challenges ahead.

Linked Articles

This article is part of a themed section on Epigenetics and Therapy. To view the other articles in this section visit http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/bph.2015.172.issue‐11
The ceramide kinase inhibitor NVP‐231 inhibits breast and lung cancer cell proliferation by inducing M phase arrest and subsequent cell death
Authors: Pastukhov Oleksandr , Schwalm Stephanie , Zangemeister‐Wittke Uwe , Fabbro Doriano , Bornancin Frederic , Japtok Lukasz , Kleuser Burkhard , Pfeilschifter Josef , Huwiler Andrea
Published: August 2014

Background and Purpose

Ceramide kinase (CerK) catalyzes the generation of ceramide‐1‐phosphate which may regulate various cellular functions, including inflammatory reactions and cell growth. Here, we studied the effect of a recently developed CerK inhibitor, NVP‐231, on cancer cell proliferation and viability and investigated the role of cell cycle regulators implicated in these responses.

Experimental Approach

The breast and lung cancer cell lines MCF‐7 and NCI‐H358 were treated with increasing concentrations of NVP‐231 and DNA synthesis, colony formation and cell death were determined. Flow cytometry was performed to analyse cell cycle distribution of cells and Western blot analysis was used to detect changes in cell cycle regulator expression and activation.

Key Results

In both cell lines, NVP‐231 concentration‐dependently reduced cell viability, DNA synthesis and colony formation. Moreover it induced apoptosis, as measured by increased DNA fragmentation and caspase‐3 and caspase‐9 cleavage. Cell cycle analysis revealed that NVP‐231 decreased the number of cells in S phase and induced M phase arrest with an increased mitotic index, as determined by increased histone H3 phosphorylation. The effect on the cell cycle was even more pronounced when NVP‐231 treatment was combined with staurosporine. Finally, overexpression of CerK protected, whereas down‐regulation of CerK with siRNA sensitized, cells for staurosporine‐induced apoptosis.

Conclusions and Implications

Our data demonstrate for the first time a crucial role for CerK in the M phase control in cancer cells and suggest its targeted inhibition, using drugs such as NVP‐231, in combination with conventional pro‐apoptotic chemotherapy.
Management of hypertension and heart failure in patients with Addison's disease
Authors: Inder Warrick J. , Meyer Caroline , Hunt Penny J.
Published: August 2014

Addison's disease may be complicated by hypertension and less commonly by heart failure. We review the pathophysiology of the renin‐angiotensin‐aldosterone axis in Addison's disease and how this is altered in the setting of hypertension and heart failure. An essential first step in management in both conditions is optimizing glucocorticoid replacement and considering dose reduction if excessive. Following this, if a patient with Addison's disease remains hypertensive, the fludrocortisone dose should be reviewed and reduced if there are clinical and/or biochemical signs of mineralocorticoid excess. In the absence of such signs, where the renin is towards the upper end of the normal range or elevated, an angiotensin II (AII) receptor antagonist or angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor is the treatment of choice, and the fludrocortisone dose should remain unchanged. Dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers are clinically useful as second line agents, but diuretics should be avoided. In the setting of heart failure, there is an increase in total body sodium and water; therefore, it is appropriate to reduce and rarely consider ceasing the fludrocortisone. Loop diuretics may be used, but not aldosterone antagonists such as spironolactone or eplerenone. Standard treatment with ACE inhibitors, or as an alternative, AII receptor antagonists, are appropriate. Measurements of renin are no longer helpful in heart failure to determine the volume status but plasma levels of brain natriuretic peptide (BNP/proBNP) may help guide therapy.
Pregnant couples at increased risk for common aneuploidies choose maximal information from invasive genetic testing
Authors: van der Steen S.L. , Diderich K.E.M. , Riedijk S.R. , Verhagen‐Visser J. , Govaerts L.C.P. , Joosten M. , Knapen M.F.C.M. , Van Opstal D. , Srebniak M.I. , Tibben A. , Galjaard R.J.H.
Published: August 2014

Genomic array detects more pathogenic chromosome aberrations than conventional karyotyping (CK), including genetic variants associated with a susceptibility for neurodevelopmental disorders; susceptibility loci (SL). Consensus regarding the scope of invasive prenatal diagnosis (PND) pregnant couples should be offered is lacking. This study examined pregnant couples' preferences, doubts and satisfaction regarding the scope of invasive PND. Eighty‐two couples choosing prenatal screening (PNS) and 59 couples choosing invasive PND were offered a choice between 5 (comparable to CK) and 0.5 Mb resolution array analysis outcomes, the latter with or without reporting SL. A pre‐test self‐report questionnaire and post‐test telephone interview assessed their choices in‐depth. Actual (PND) and hypothetical (PNS) choices differed significantly (p < 0.001). Ninety‐five percent of the couples in the PND group chose 0.5 Mb array, vs 69% in the PNS group. Seven percent of the PND group wished not to be informed of SL. Ninety percent was satisfied with their choice and wished to decide about the scope themselves. Pregnant couples wish to make their own choices regarding the scope of invasive PND. It therefore seems justified to offer them a choice in both the resolution of array and disclosure of SL.
Retrospective cohort study of 4591 Straumann implants in private practice setting, with up to 10‐year follow‐up. Part 1: multivariate survival analysis
Authors: French David , Larjava Hannu , Ofec Ronen
Published: August 2014

Objective

The purpose of this retrospective, noninterventional, open cohort study is to report on the long‐term survival of dental implants, in private practice representing the daily realities of implant treatment. The data are analyzed to discern statistical relationships between explanatory variables and implant failure.

Materials and methods

A total of 4591 Straumann implants were placed in 2060 patients between 1999 and 2012. Patients were evaluated after 2–3 months, 1, 3, 5, and 7 years and, in some cases, up to 10 years. The cumulative survival rate (CSR) was calculated according to the life table method and illustrated with Kaplan–Meier survival curves. Univariate analysis was performed to investigate the association between study variables and time to implant‐failure. Variables with P ‐value < 0.15 were further selected for a multivariate analysis. Statistical methods which take into account the fact that some patients have more than one implant (therefore, dependency between implants within mouth) had been applied.

Results

At the implant level, the cumulative survival rates at 3, 5, and 7 years were 99.3%, 99.0%, and 98.4%, respectively, and at the patient level, they were 98.6%, 97.7%, and 95.9%, respectively. After adjustment to possible confounders, the multivariate analysis identified a relationship between the following risk indicators for implant failure: implant location, length and design, timing of implantation, bone grafting procedures and gender. Tissue‐Level implants (n = 3863) had a very high survival rate of 99% at 3 years, which was maintained over the entire study period. Bone‐Level implants (n = 600) were as predictable with a survival rate of 99% up to 3 years, while Tapered Effect implants (n = 128) demonstrated a lower survival rate of 95% at 5 years. Short 6‐mm implants in the mandibular posterior sites had a high survival rate of 100%, while in maxillary posterior positions a survival rate of only 87% was achieved. Patient factors such as smoking, autoimmune disease, and penicillin allergy were tending to associate with higher failure rates.

Conclusion

High long‐term survival rates were observed for a large cohort of Straumann implants. Tissue‐ and Bone‐Level implants had higher survival rates than Tapered Effect implants, and although short implants faired well in the mandibular posterior sites, they faired less well in the maxillary posterior sites. The study represents private practice insight into large‐scale, long‐term implant results.
Identifying correlates of success and failure of native freshwater fish reintroductions
Authors: Cochran‐Biederman Jennifer L. , Wyman Katherine E. , French William E. , Loppnow Grace L.
Published: August 2014

Reintroduction of imperiled native freshwater fish is becoming an increasingly important conservation tool amidst persistent anthropogenic pressures and new threats related to climate change. We summarized trends in native fish reintroductions in the current literature, identified predictors of reintroduction outcome, and devised recommendations for managers attempting future native fish reintroductions. We constructed random forest classifications using data from 260 published case studies of native fish reintroductions to estimate the effectiveness of variables in predicting reintroduction outcome. The outcome of each case was assigned as a success or failure on the basis of the author's perception of the outcome and on whether or not survival, spawning, or recruitment were documented during post‐reintroduction monitoring. Inadequately addressing the initial cause of decline was the best predictor of reintroduction failure. Variables associated with habitat (e.g., water quality, prey availability) were also good predictors of reintroduction outcomes, followed by variables associated with stocking (e.g., genetic diversity of stock source, duration of stocking event). Consideration of these variables by managers during the planning process may increase the likelihood for successful outcomes in future reintroduction attempts of native freshwater fish.

Identificación de Correlaciones de Éxito y Fracaso de Reintroducciones de Peces de Nativos Agua Dulce
FINANCIAL DEVELOPMENT AND THE FDI‐INEQUALITY NEXUS
Authors: Lin Shu‐Chin , Kim Dong‐Hyeon , Lee Yi‐Huey
Published: August 2014

This article empirically investigates whether the link between foreign direct investment (FDI) and income inequality varies with financial development. Using a smooth transition regression model to a panel of developing and advanced countries over the period of 1976–2005, the results indicate that financial development indeed defines the relationship between FDI and inequality. FDI raises income inequality and the effect becomes stronger in magnitude with financial sophistication. The results also indicate a large variation in the FDI effect across countries and over time, contingent on financial development. (JEL C23, F40, O15)
Faculty development for clinical teachers in dental education
Authors: Møystad A. , Lycke K. H. , Barkvoll T. A. , Lauvås P.
Published: August 2014

Dental education has been reviewed, and suggestions for further enhancement include the implementation of faculty development activities to enhance teaching and learning environments.

Purpose

The aim of this study was to gain insight into the participants' perceptions of outcomes of faculty development for clinical teachers and clinical learning environments as well as into the sustainability of such outcomes.

Methods

The program was organized in the form of (i) a 2‐day seminar; (ii) collegial supervision and development projects; and (iii) a 1‐day follow‐up seminar. The participants' perceptions from the five‐first programs were studied. A Web‐based questionnaire was sent to all participants, that is 3–27 months after completion of the program (follow‐up survey).

Results

The outcomes of the program (response rate 70%) indicate a strong impact of the program on the clinical teachers' competence and on the clinical learning environments. The teachers report that they think more about what their students really learn, have become more conscious about how they supervise and have been stimulated to become better teachers. The learning environment as well as collaboration, and calibration between teachers have improved. The novice teachers report greater benefits than do the experienced teachers. The participants initiated a variety of development projects during the program. The majority of the participants continued the development activities.

Conclusions

The faculty development program presented confirms that faculty development activities for clinical teachers based on theories of learning and experiences documented in the literature can be implemented with positive outcomes for individual teachers and for the learning environments.
Deferasirox for iron chelation in multitransfused children with sickle cell disease; long‐term experience in the East London clinical haemoglobinopathy network
Authors: Tsouana Eva , Kaya Banu , Gadong Nimze , Hemmaway Claire , Newell Heather , Simmons Andrea , Whitmarsh Simon , Telfer Paul
Published: August 2014

Deferasirox (DFX) has been licensed for iron chelation in patients with sickle cell disease (SCD), but there is limited data on its long‐term efficacy and safety in children.

This retrospective study included 62 regularly transfused children managed in the East London and Essex Clinical Haemoglobinopathy Network (mean age 9.2 ± 3.2 yr). Efficacy measurements consisted of monthly serum ferritin (SF) and annual R2 MRI‐estimated liver iron concentration (LIC), and safety markers included serum creatinine and alanine aminotransferase (ALT).

The mean duration of DFX treatment was 2.5 ± 1.4 yr, and mean dose at 36 months was 25 mg/kg/d. Mean SF at initiation of treatment was 2542 ± 952 ng/mL and increased to 4691 ± 2255 ng/mL at 36 months (P = 0.05). Mean LIC on first scan was 10.3 mg/g dry weight and did not decrease significantly on follow‐up scans. There was a significant correlation between relative change in LIC and in SF (R2 = 0.66, P < 0.001). Reversible transaminitis episodes, probably due to drug‐induced hepatitis, were noted in 53% of patients. Responses to an adherence and acceptability questionnaire indicated that more than 50% of children had difficulties in taking DFX, commonly because of unpleasant taste.

Our results show that more than 50% of children with SCD have inadequate control of iron overload with DFX. It is not clear whether this is because of frequent dose interruptions, poor tolerability and adherence, or poor efficacy of the drug. We recommend further studies to confirm these findings and to optimise iron chelation in this population.
The basolateral amygdala is necessary for negative prediction errors to enhance cue salience, but not to produce conditioned inhibition
Authors: Esber Guillem R. , Holland Peter C.
Published: August 2014

Behavioral evidence shows that prediction errors (PEs) not only drive associative learning, but also enhance the salience of predictive cues, making them better able to capture attention when they are next encountered. Research from our laboratory suggests that this latter consequence of PEs depends on a neural circuit that includes the amygdala. Lesions of the basolateral complex of the amygdala (BLA), for instance, selectively disrupt enhancements in cue processing that are normally induced by positive PEs without compromising simple excitatory learning. This result is consistent with electrophysiological evidence showing that BLA neurons track positive PEs. Interestingly, the same neurons also seem to track negative PEs, suggesting the possibility that the BLA might also use these errors to drive enhancements in cue processing. Here, we examined the role of the BLA in the processing (Experiment 1) and utilization (Experiment 2) of negative PEs in increasing cue salience in an unblocking procedure. Using FOS expression as an index of neural activity, Experiment 1 confirmed that BLA neurons track negative PEs with reinforcement downshifts. This tracking was evident both when these errors were generated by decreasing the concentration of a sucrose reinforcer (which encourages the development of conditioned inhibition) and when they were generated by decreasing the number of sucrose reinforcers (which encourages excitatory learning – unblocking – and allows the detection of enhancements in cue processing). Experiment 2 demonstrated that BLA lesions abolished enhancements in cue processing while sparing inhibitory learning. These results suggest a general role of the BLA in utilizing PEs, whatever their sign, for boosting cue processing.
How and why should we implement genomics into conservation?
Authors: McMahon Barry J. , Teeling Emma C. , Höglund Jacob
Published: August 2014

Conservation genetics has provided important information into the dynamics of endangered populations. The rapid development of genomic methods has posed an important question, namely where do genetics and genomics sit in relation to their application in the conservation of species? Although genetics can answer a number of relevant questions related to conservation, the argument for the application of genomics is not yet fully exploited. Here, we explore the transition and rationale for the move from genetic to genomic research in conservation biology and the utility of such research. We explore the idea of a ‘conservation prior’ and how this can be determined by genomic data and used in the management of populations. We depict three different conservation scenarios and describe how genomic data can drive management action in each situation. We conclude that the most effective applications of genomics will be to inform stakeholders with the aim of avoiding ‘emergency room conservation’.
Pathology of gastric lesions in donkeys: A preliminary study
Authors: Al‐Mokaddem A. K. , Ahmed K. A. , Doghaim R. E.
Published: August 2014

Reasons for performing study

Donkeys (Equus africanus asinus) are important working animals, particularly in countries where the majority of the population lives below the poverty line. Gastric ulceration has been shown to be common inBritish donkeys but donkeys from other parts of the world have not been as extensively researched.

Objectives

This study was performed as a preliminary overview of the severity and distribution of gastric lesions in mature donkeys and to document which parasites were present.

Study design

Descriptive study of pathological findings.

Methods

Stomachs of 35 mature draught donkeys were examined grossly and histopathology samples taken from 5 regions of the gastric mucosa.

Results

Gross examination revealed hyperaemia, oedema, erosions and ulcers in addition to parasitic lesions. Histopathological examination revealed hyperkeratosis, acanthosis, vacuolar degeneration of stratified squamous cells, gastritis, erosions, ulcerations, scarring, hyperactivity of mucus glands, periglandular fibroplasia and parasitic granulomes with infestation byGasterophilusspp.larvae,Habronemaspp.andDraschia megastoma.

Conclusions

In donkeys, ulceration of the nonglandular regions of the stomach is more prominent than the glandular regions and parasitic infestations were frequent.
Repetitio Sententiarum, Repetitio Verborum: Kant, Hamann, and the Implications of Citation
Authors: Hamilton John T.
Published: August 2014

Through a careful comparison of the citational practices of Immanuel Kant and Johann Georg Hamann, I aim to divulge salient distinctions that should contribute to, and complicate our understanding of, the Enlightenment project. To this end, I begin the present article with an investigation of Kant's famous gambit in his response to the question “Was ist Aufklärung?” and subsequently trace its links to the philosopher's earlier engagement with his Königsberg neighbor regarding the proposed collaboration to compose a physics textbook for children. What emerges from this investigation is a revealing and, at times, confounding network of citations, primarily from Horace, which serve to test the limits of critical discourse. At stake is a redefinition of eighteenth‐century language theory that takes into consideration crucial positions on the meaning and value of metaphysics, theology, and human nature.
Consumer willingness to invest money and time for benefits of lifestyle behaviour change: an application of the contingent valuation method
Authors: Alayli‐Goebbels Adrienne F. G. , van Exel Job , Ament André J. H. A. , de Vries Nanne K. , Bot Sandra D. M. , Severens Johan L.
Published: August 2014

Objective

To use contingent valuation (CV) to derive individual consumer values for both health and broader benefits of a public‐health intervention directed at lifestyle behaviour change (LBC) and to examine the feasibility and validity of the method.

Method

Participants of a lifestyle intervention trial (n = 515) were invited to complete an onlineCVsurvey. Respondents (n = 312) expressed willingness to invest money and time for changes in life expectancy, health‐related quality of life (HRQOL) and broader quality of life aspects. Internal validity was tested for by exploring associations between explanatory variables (i.e. income, paid work, experience and risk factors for cardiovascular diseases) and willingness to invest, and by examining ordering effects and respondents' sensitivity to the scope of the benefits.

Results

The majority of respondents (94.3%) attached value to benefits ofLBC, and 87.4% were willing to invest both money and time. Respondents were willing to invest more for improvements inHRQOL(€42/month; 3 h/week) and broader quality of life aspects (€40/month; 2.6 h/week) than for improvements in life expectancy (€24/month; 2 h/week). Protest answers were limited (3%) and findings regarding internal validity were mixed.

Conclusion

The importance of broader quality of life outcomes to consumers suggests that these outcomes are relevant to be considered in the decision making. Our research showed thatCVis a feasible method to value both health and broader outcomes ofLBC, but generalizability to other areas of public health still needs to be examined. Mixed evidence regarding internal validity pleads for caution to useCVas only the base for decision making.
Where and how to search for information on the effectiveness of public health interventions – a case study for prevention of cardiovascular disease
Authors: Bayliss Susan E. , Davenport Clare F. , Pennant Mary E.
Published: August 2014

Background

This case study documents the experience of searching for information on the effectiveness of population‐level multi‐factor interventions for the prevention of cardiovascular disease (CVD) to inform guidance from NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence).

Objectives

To compare suitability of different databases for searches on a medical public health topic and performance of sensitive versus specific strategies.

Methods

A sensitive search strategy identified 34 CVD programmes (reference standard) and sensitivity, precision and number needed to read (NNTR) were compared across seven databases. Two alternative strategies were developed to improve precision while minimising the impact on sensitivity.

Results

MEDLINE alone retrieved 91% (31/34) relevant programme citations. Four databases (MEDLINE, CENTRAL, ASSIA and PsycINFO) were required to identify all 34 programmes. In the alternative strategies, greater use of MeSH rather than text and focus on terms directed at population‐level interventions resulted in a more precise search on MEDLINE.

Conclusions

MEDLINE alone provided a better yield than anticipated. Additional databases improved sensitivity by 9% but to the detriment of precision. Retrospective searching would provide additional insight into the performance of both databases and strategies. How the medical nature of this public health topic affected yield across databases also requires further investigation.
Measuring the impact of information skills training: a survey of health libraries in England
Authors: Ayre Stephen , Barbrook John , Engel Colin , Lacey Patricia , Phul Anita , Stevenson Paul , Toft Suzanne
Published: August 2014

Background

The lack of robust research measuring the impact of NHS based information skills training prompted the West Midlands Regional Trainers' Forum to conduct a post‐training survey.

Methods

This is a multi‐centred study which collected data from over 60 separate organisations. Survey questionnaires were completed by learners a few weeks after the training event.

Results

Five hundred and thirty‐four responses were received. 82% of information skills training recipients indicated that they had implemented learning or changed practice as a result of the training. 70% of recipients indicated there had been an impact on patient care.

Discussion

The beneficial results from information skills training manifest in a multitude of ways. The results of this study indicate that the learning from information skills training is being used to reduce problems and address the key issues in modern health care.

Conclusion

The results clearly demonstrate the value of information skills training and its beneficial impact on patient care, lifelong learning and other key NHS functions. This study shows information skills training as an important activity which supports the information literacy agenda, and has a positive impact across the four key functions of library and knowledge services within the NHS.
Influence of the addition of Helianthus tuberosus L. fermented with different lactobacilli on acrylamide content in biscuits
Authors: Bartkiene Elena , Jakobsone Ida , Pugajeva Iveta , Bartkevics Vadims , Vidmantiene Daiva , Juodeikiene Grazina
Published: August 2014

The aim of the study was to investigate the effect of the addition of Helianthus tuberosus L. fermented with different lactobacilli (Lactobacillus sakei KTU05‐6, Pediococcus acidilactici KTU05‐7 and Pediococcus pentosaceus KTU05‐9) on acrylamide content in biscuits. Results of study indicated that submerged fermented Helianthus tuberosus L. tubers had the significantly (P ≤ 0.05) lower pH, higher total titratable acidity and from 1.2 to 1.3 times higher protease and from 1.2 to 2.0 higher alpha‐amylase activities compared with treated by solid‐state fermentation. The acrylamide content in all biscuit samples enriched with submerged fermented Helianthus tuberosus L. was measured lower than 10 μg kg−1. Submerged fermentation with selected lactobacilli provided specific characteristics of fermented Helianthus tuberosus products which had effect on the asparagine reduction in plant additives, thus reducing acrylamide content in biscuits enriched with Helianthus tuberosus L.
The Reverse Supply Chain Planning Matrix: A Classification Scheme for Planning Problems in Reverse Logistics
Authors: Nuss Christian , Sahamie Ramin , Stindt Dennis
Published: August 2014

This paper presents a conceptual planning framework for reverse supply chain operations based on an extensive literature review and industry expertise. Such a holistic scheme for classification of planning tasks is necessary as the intensification of research on reverse logistics and closed‐loop supply chains in recent years has raised a number of planning problems that differ from those of solely forward‐oriented supply chains. Up to now, a common and comprehensive definition of relevant planning problems along the reverse chain has not existed. Thus, a thorough understanding of the interdependence between these elements is missing. This paper aims to systematically identify planning problems, which are assigned to different planning horizons and distinct process stages of product recovery. The result is a classification scheme, called a ‘Reverse Supply Chain Planning Matrix’ (RSCPM), which categorizes planning problems and shows their interrelation in recovery operations. It serves both academia and practitioners as a holistic overview for planning and decision tasks. Moreover, decision‐makers are supported in identifying the relevant variables in reverse supply chains and in revealing the consequences of one decision regarding other parameters of the system. To the best of the authors' knowledge, the RSCPM is the first attempt to comprehensively structure the field of reverse supply chain research by identifying, defining and interconnecting planning problems within an integrated framework, as is common in the forward case.
TriMatch comparison of the efficacy of FloSeal versus TachoSil versus no hemostatic agents for partial nephrectomy: Results from a large multicenter dataset
Authors: Antonelli Alessandro , Minervini Andrea , Mari Andrea , Bertolo Riccardo , Bianchi Giampaolo , Lapini Alberto , Longo Nicola , Martorana Giuseppe , Mirone Vincenzo , Morgia Giuseppe , Novara Giacomo , Porpiglia Francesco , Rocco Bernardo , Rovereto Bruno , Schiavina Riccardo , Simeone Claudio , Sodano Mario , Terrone Carlo , Ficarra Vincenzo , Carini Marco , Serni Sergio ,   RECORd Project‐LUNA Foundation
Published: August 2014

Objectives

To evaluate the efficacy of hemostatic agents, TachoSil and FloSeal, during partial nephrectomy using a large multicenter dataset.

Methods

Data of 1055 patients who underwent partial nephrectomy between January 2009 and December 2012 in 19 Italian centers were collected within an observational multicentric study (RECORd Project). The decision whether or not to use hemostatic agents after renorrhaphy and the type of hemostatic agents applied was adopted according to the centers' and surgeons' preference. A TriMatch propensity score analysis was applied to balance three study groups (no hemostatic agents, TachoSil, FloSeal) for sex, age, surgical indication (elective/relative vs imperative), clinical stage (cT1a vs cT1b), tumor exophyticity, approach (open vs minimally invasive), technique (standard partial nephrectomy vs simple enucleation), preoperative hemoglobin and creatinine. Postoperative complications and variation of hemoglobin and creatinine values between preoperative versus third postoperative day were compared.

Results

TriMatch analysis allowed us to obtain 66 well‐balanced triplets. No differences were found in terms of outcomes between the study groups.

Conclusions

The present findings suggest that adding hemostatic agents to renorraphy during partial nephrectomy does not provide better surgical outcomes.
A systematic review evaluating the impact of online or blended learning vs. face‐to‐face learning of clinical skills in undergraduate nurse education
Authors: McCutcheon Karen , Lohan Maria , Traynor Marian , Martin Daphne
Published: August 2014

Aim

To determine whether the use of an online or blended learning paradigm has the potential to enhance the teaching of clinical skills in undergraduate nursing.

Background

The need to adequately support and develop students in clinical skills is now arguably more important than previously considered due to reductions in practice opportunities. Online and blended teaching methods are being developed to try and meet this requirement, but knowledge about their effectiveness in teaching clinical skills is limited.

Design

Mixed methods systematic review, which follows the Joanna Briggs Institute User guide version 5.

Data sources

Computerized searches of five databases were undertaken for the period 1995–August 2013.

Review methods

Critical appraisal and data extraction were undertaken using Joanna Briggs Institute tools for experimental/observational studies and interpretative and critical research. A narrative synthesis was used to report results.

Results

Nineteen published papers were identified. Seventeen papers reported on online approaches and only two papers reported on a blended approach. The synthesis of findings focused on the following four areas: performance/clinical skill, knowledge, self‐efficacy/clinical confidence and user experience/satisfaction. The e‐learning interventions used varied throughout all the studies.

Conclusion

The available evidence suggests that online learning for teaching clinical skills is no less effective than traditional means. Highlighted by this review is the lack of available evidence on the implementation of a blended learning approach to teaching clinical skills in undergraduate nurse education. Further research is required to assess the effectiveness of this teaching methodology.
Three Cheers for the Token Woman!
Authors: Gheaus Anca
Published: August 2014

Concerns about the under‐representation of female academic philosophers and about the stereotype that philosophy is best done by men have recently led to efforts to make academic philosophy a more inclusive discipline. An example is the Gendered Conference Campaign, encouraging event organisers and volume editors to include women amongst invited speakers and authors.

Initiatives such as the GCC raise worries about tokenism. Potential invitees may be concerned about unfairness towards whose who would have been invited in their place in the absence of affirmative action and about the way in which affirmative action can (be perceived to) affect the quality of the conference or volume in question. And women philosophers often worry that, if formal rules or significant social pressures towards gender inclusiveness play a role in selection processes, their achievements will be discounted.

I argue there is no good reason for these fears: there is no pure meritocracy in academia, nor is the ideal of pure meritocracy either feasible or desirable. There are several legitimate grounds — independent of professional competence — for including people in positions of visibility and prestige; gender is such a legitimate reason.
Supportive post‐implant therapy: patient compliance rates and impacting factors: 3‐year follow‐up
Authors: Frisch Eberhard , Ziebolz Dirk , Vach Kirstin , Ratka‐Krüger Petra
Published: August 2014

Aim

To evaluate patient compliance rates and influential factors regarding a systematic SIT program.

Materials and methods

Between 2005 and 2008, we identified all patients who were provided with implant‐supported restorations in the study centre. They had been recommended to attend a SIT program with a 3‐month recall. In 2012, a clinical retrospective cohort study on compliance rates over the first 3 years was performed different data were assessed in a regression analysis to identify potential influential factors.

Results

The inclusion criteria were met by 236 patients with 540 implants. Non‐compliance rates increased over the 3 years (5.37%/7.78%/13.33%). Total non‐compliance was observed in four patients (1.69%). No correlation to patient compliance was detected for “Age,” “Gender,” “Cardiovascular disease,” “Pus/suppuration,” or “Surgical case complexity.” No decreasing effect of higher compliance rates on the patients’ bleeding on probing (BOP+) values was found, but a statistical significance between lower compliance rates and increased pocket probing depth (PPD) was detected. The correlation between the presence of plaque and compliance did not reach statistical significance.

Conclusions

When patients with implant‐supported restorations are strongly recommended to comply with a SIT program with a 3‐month recall, considerably high rates of compliance can be achieved.
Combination of LED light and platelet‐derived growth factor to accelerate dentoalveolar osteogenesis
Authors: Chang Po‐Chun , Wang Chen‐Ying , Sheng‐Chueh Tsai
Published: August 2014

Aim

This study aimed to evaluate the adjunctive effect of LED light in platelet‐derived growth factor (PDGF)‐aided dentoalveolar osteogenesis.

Material and Methods

Full‐thickness osseous wounds were created on rat maxillae and were either unfilled or filled with poly‐(D,L‐lactide) and poly‐(D,L‐lactide‐co‐glycolide) microspheres encapsulating PDGF. Animals received daily 660 ± 25 nm LED light irradiation at 0, 10 (LD), or 20 (HD) J/cm2, were killed at days 4–28 (n = 6/group/time) and evaluated by microcomputed tomography (micro‐CT), histology, and the expressions of osteopontin and tartrate‐resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP).

Results

Greater osteogenesis was noted in the PDGF‐treated defects at day 14. Under the LED light irradiation, osteogenesis was significantly greater in both LD and HD groups of the non‐PDGF‐treated defects, but only in the LD group of the PDGF‐treated defects. No significant differences in osteogenesis among groups were noted at day 28. Greater bone marrow space was noted in the LED light‐irradiated specimens, especially in the PDGF‐treated defects at both time points. Osteopontin was significantly promoted in the LD group at both time points, and TRAP was significantly promoted in all LED light‐irradiated groups at day 28.

Conclusion

LED light could an adjunct to promote early PDGF‐aided dentoalveolar osteogenesis by facilitating the osteoblast–osteoclast coupling.
Microbial signature profiles of periodontally healthy and diseased patients
Authors: Lourenço Talita Gomes Baêta , Heller Débora , Silva‐Boghossian Carina Maciel , Cotton Sean L. , Paster Bruce J. , Colombo Ana Paula Vieira
Published: August 2014

Aim

To determine microbial profiles that discriminate periodontal health from different forms of periodontal diseases.

Methods

Subgingival biofilm was obtained from patients with periodontal health (27), gingivitis (11), chronic periodontitis (35) and aggressive periodontitis (24), and analysed for the presence of >250 species/phylotypes using HOMIM. Microbial differences among groups were examined by Mann–Whitney U‐test. Regression analyses were performed to determine microbial risk indicators of disease.

Results

Putative and potential new periodontal pathogens were more prevalent in subjects with periodontal diseases than periodontal health. Detection of Porphyromonas endodontalis/Porphyromonas spp. (OR 9.5 [1.2–73.1]) and Tannerella forsythia (OR 38.2 [3.2–450.6]), and absence of Neisseria polysaccharea (OR 0.004 [0–0.15]) and Prevotella denticola (OR 0.014 [0–0.49], p < 0.05) were risk indicators of periodontal disease. Presence of Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans (OR 29.4 [3.4–176.5]), Cardiobacterium hominis (OR 14.9 [2.3–98.7]), Peptostreptococcaceae sp. (OR 35.9 [2.7–483.9]), P. alactolyticus (OR 31.3 [2.1–477.2]), and absence of Fretibacterium spp. (OR 0.024 [0.002–0.357]), Fusobacterium naviforme/Fusobacterium nucleatum ss vincentii (OR 0.015 [0.001–0.223]), Granulicatella adiacens/Granulicatella elegans (OR 0.013 [0.001–0.233], p < 0.05) were associated with aggressive periodontitis.

Conclusion

There were specific microbial signatures of the subgingival biofilm that were able to distinguish between microbiomes of periodontal health and diseases. Such profiles may be used to establish risk of disease.
Identification of female sex pheromone of a plant bug, Adelphocoris fasciaticollis Reuter (Hemiptera: Miridae)
Authors: Zhang T. , Mei X. , Zhang L. , Wu K. , Ning J.
Published: August 2014

The plant bug, Adelphocoris fasciaticollis, has begun to resurge and become a key pest for cotton and alfalfa in northern China, along with the widespread cultivation of Bt cotton. To control this plant bug without pesticides, we attempted to develop a new approach by utilizing sex pheromone. The sex pheromone components from the whole‐body extracts were analysed by GC‐MS and gas chromatography–electroantennogram detector analysis (GC‐EAD). (E)‐4‐Oxo‐2‐hexenal and hexyl butyrate, identified as the major components in the extracts of female bugs, elicited strong EAD responses. Field tests indicated that either (E)‐4‐oxo‐2‐hexenal or hexyl butyrate attracted few A. fasciaticollis males and was significantly less active than virgin females and the binary blend. Their ratio was optimized to be 1 : 11. Our results could expand acknowledge of the pheromone of mirids and provide novel approaches to monitor and control this plant bug without pesticides.
A cross‐sectional exploration of the personality traits of dietitians
Authors: Ball L. , Eley D. S. , Desbrow B. , Lee P. , Ferguson M.
Published: August 2014

Background

Personality traits refer to habitual patterns of behaviour, thought and emotions, and have been shown to influence health professionals’ career decisions, career development, job satisfaction and retention. There is an opportunity to better understand and support the career pathways of dietitians by exploring their personality traits. The two primary aspects of personality are: (i) temperament traits, which determine automatic emotional responses to experiences, and are generally stable over lifetime, and (ii) character traits, which reflect personal goals and values, and tend to develop with life experience. The present study explored the levels of temperament and character traits of dietitians, as well as their relationship to demographic variables.

Methods

The study comprised a cross‐sectional online survey of 346 Australian dietitians [95% female; mean (SD) age 32 (10) years; mean (SD) time since graduation 7 (9) years]. Temperament and character traits were measured by the Temperament and Character Inventory. Key demographic variables were measured to describe career decisions and pathways of dietitians. Multivariate analyses of variance was used to investigate the relationship between demographic variables and personality traits.

Results

Levels of several traits were significantly associated with gender, age and highest level of education. In comparison to the general population, the dietitians displayed average levels of Novelty Seeking; high levels of Harm Avoidance, Reward Dependence, Persistence, Self‐Directedness and Cooperativeness; and low levels of Self‐Transcendence.

Conclusions

The dietitians in the present study displayed levels of personality traits that were similar to other health professionals, although they differed from the general population. These findings are the precursor to further work that may inform recruitment strategies and career counselling in dietetics.