bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Surgical treatment of stress urinary incontinence–trans‐obturator tape compared with tension‐free vaginal tape–5‐year follow up: an economic evaluation
Authors: Lier D , Robert M , Tang S , Ross S
Published: August 2016

Objective

To conduct an economic evaluation of the use of trans‐obturator tape (TOT) compared with tension‐free vaginal tape (TVT) in the surgical treatment of stress urinary incontinence in women.

Design

Cost–utility and cost‐effectiveness analyses from a public‐payer perspective, conducted alongside a randomised clinical trial.

Setting

Health services provided in Alberta, Canada.

Sample

A total of 195 women participated in the randomised clinical trial, followed to 5 years postsurgery.

Methods

Comparisons were undertaken between study groups for cost and two health‐outcome measures. Multiple imputation was used to estimate the 14% of missing data. Bootstrapping was used to account for sampling uncertainty. Sensitivity analyses were based on complete case analyses and the removal of aTVTpatient with extreme health service cost.

Main outcome measures

The 15D instrument was used to calculate quality‐adjusted life‐years (QALYs) for the primary analysis. Absence of serious adverse events was also analysed. Costs were based on inpatient and outpatient hospital use data and practitioner fee‐for‐service claims data.

Results

TheTOTgroup had a nonsignificant average saving of $2368 (95%CI−$7166 to $2548) and incremental gain of 0.04QALYs (95%CI−0.06 to 0.14) compared withTVT.TOTwas dominant in over 71% of bootstrap replications and cost‐effective over a wide range of willingness‐to‐pay. Cost‐effectiveness analysis using the absence of an serious adverse events provided similar results.

Conclusion

The results suggest thatTOTis cost‐effective compared withTVTin the treatment of stress urinary incontinence.

Tweetable abstract

The results of a 5‐year cost‐effectiveness analysis suggest that trans‐obturator tape is cost‐effective compared with tension‐free vaginal tape in the treatment of stress urinary incontinence.
Detection of Diatoms by a Combination of Membrane Filtration and Transparentness,
Authors: Zhao Jian , Wang Yuzhong , Liu Chao , Hu Sunlin , Shi He , Wen Jinfeng
Published: August 2016

Diagnosis of drowning remains a difficult issue in current forensic sciences. A large number of diatoms were lost by removing the supernatant after centrifugation in the conventional forensic diatom test. We developed a novel membrane filtration method to enrich diatoms from samples. A new solution using different ratios of acetic acid and eugenol is prepared to make the membrane transparent. These processes allow the diatom‐containing membrane to be visualized and identified easily by light microscopy. The tissues contaminated by water rich in diatoms were detected by the new method for the recovery of diatoms. Eleven drowning cases were analyzed by both the new method and the conventional method to compare the sensitivity of both methods. The recovery of the novel diatom test method was 54.2 ± 23.1%. The positive rate of the novel method has been proven to be superior to the conventional method in the diagnosis of drowning.
Pre‐eruptive intracoronal resorption in a third upper molar: clinical, tomographic and histological analysis
Authors: Lenzi R , Marceliano‐Alves MF , Alves FRF , Pires FR , Fidel S
Published: August 2016

Radiolucent or hypodense lesions in the crown of unerupted teeth may be due to pre‐eruptive intracoronal resorption. Clinicians must be aware of this risk so that they can diagnose and appropriately treat this condition. The purpose of this study is to present a well‐documented clinical case of pre‐eruptive intracoronal resorption in an impacted third upper left molar of a 63 year old female patient. This was an unexpected finding, which occurred after cone‐beam computed tomography was used to investigate the first upper left molar, which had an acute periradicular abscess. A multidisciplinary team followed up the case to describe clinical, radiographic and histological findings. The available treatment options were discussed, and the tooth extraction was the option chosen. Previous case studies describing such resorption in third upper molars have not been reported. This case shows that all permanent teeth in a pre‐eruptive stage must be analysed radiographically to detect early pre‐eruptive intracoronal resorption.
Ethanol‐injection induces attacks by ambrosia beetles (Coleoptera: Curculionidae: Scolytinae) on a variety of tree species
Authors: Reding Michael E. , Ranger Christopher M. , Oliver Jason B. , Schultz Peter B. , Youssef Nadeer N. , Bray Alicia M.
Published: August 2016

Exotic ambrosia beetles have become serious pests in ornamental tree nurseries. However, research on their biology, ecology and behaviour to develop management tactics is hampered by the lack of reliable attacks on experimental trees.

Injecting Magnolia virginiana L. with ethanol consistently induced attacks by exotic ambrosia beetles to facilitate research on their biology and management. The ability to attract ambrosia beetles to trap trees may be useful for developing nonchemical strategies and techniques for managing them in nurseries. However, to be useful in management techniques, ethanol‐injection has to reliably induce attacks on a vlariety of tree species.

Experiments were conducted in Ohio, Tennessee and Virginia, where ethanol‐injection was tested on 16 species of deciduous trees from 11 families.

Ethanol‐injection reliably induced attacks by exotic ambrosia beetles on all tree species tested. There were differences in the numbers of attacks by ambrosia beetles among species of trees in most experiments, although no species was identified consistently as the most or least attacked in repeated experiments. The positive association of attacks with ethanol concentrations in bark tissue indicate that the attack rates were most likely related to the uptake and emission of ethanol.

The results of the present study indicate that ethanol‐injection reliably induces ambrosia beetle attacks on a wide range of deciduous tree species, which should further facilitate research on ambrosia beetles in nurseries and the development of behaviour‐based management tactics that divert ambrosia beetles away from ornamental trees.
Enemas, suppositories and rectal stimulation are not effective in accelerating enteral feeding or meconium evacuation in low‐birthweight infants: a systematic review
Authors: Kamphorst Kim , Sietsma Ydelette , Brouwer Annemieke J. , Rood Paul J. T. , van den Hoogen Agnes
Published: August 2016

Early full enteral feeding in preterm infants decreases morbidity and mortality. Our systematic review covered the effectiveness of rectal stimulation, suppositories and enemas on stooling patterns and feeding tolerance in low‐birthweight infants born at up to 32 weeks. It comprised seven studies published between 2007 and 2014 and covered 495 infants.

Conclusion

Suppositories were ineffective in shortening the time to reach full enteral feeding, and the evidence on enemas was contradictory. Enemas and rectal stimulation did not shorten the time until complete meconium evacuation was reached. Further research into safe, effective interventions to accelerate meconium excretion is needed.
‘And then they left’: Challenges to child protection systems strengthening in South Sudan
Authors: Canavera Mark , Lanning Kiryn , Polin Katherine , Stark Lindsay
Published: August 2016

International child protection work has undergone a paradigm shift, moving from addressing issues such as trafficked children, street children and child labour separately to a more integrated systems approach. As a young nation still marked by conflict, South Sudan offers insight into how the interplay between a fragile national child protection system in a conflict‐affected country and the efforts of international humanitarian actors can promote or undermine systems strengthening. From June to August 2012, 52 semi‐structured key informant interviews with international‐, national‐ and community‐level actors were completed. Eight community‐level focus group discussions were also conducted separately with men, women, boys and girls. Interview guides were designed to explore participant perceptions of child protection system functioning. Data were analysed using a grounded theory approach. Four dimensions emerged as crucial pillars for child protection systems strengthening: coordination, capacity, funding and community inclusion. These factors were found to have taken root in unequal measure. Respondents at all systemic levels indicated that child protection systems strengthening efforts operated largely in isolation from the quotidian realities of children, families and communities. The humanitarian apparatus — marked by short‐term funding and accountability to the international community — will require significant reform to situate humanitarian efforts in a systems strengthening framework. If the objective is to strengthen national child protection systems, emergency response activities must better align with household‐ and community‐level efforts to protect children.
Mothers Reflect on How They Have Assisted Their Children to Cope with the Terrorist Attacks in Kenya
Authors: Warria Ajwang’
Published: August 2016

Terrorist acts are occurring worldwide and there is a growing concern on the impact these events have on children. This qualitative exploratory research project retrospectively explored reflections of how six mothers assisted their children cope with the aftermath of the 2013–2015 terror attacks in Kenya. These data were collected in January and February 2016. Findings indicate that positive and supportive parental responses can be beneficial to a child's well‐being. Opportunities to safeguard children's futures by mitigating harmful consequences of terror attacks through parental involvement are vital in securing the child's rights to survival, development, participation and protection.
Tinea capitis: Erregerspektrum und Epidemiologie im zeitlichen Wandel
Authors: Ziegler Wiebke , Lempert Sigrid , Goebeler Matthias , Kolb‐Mäurer Annette
Published: August 2016

Hintergrund

Die Tinea capitis ist die häufigste Dermatomykose des Kindesalters. Das Erregerprofil zeigt unterschiedliche geographische Verteilungsmuster und variiert im Laufe der Zeit.

Patienten und Methodik

Zwischen 1990–2014 an der Würzburger Universitätsklinik für Dermatologie erhobene Daten von 150 Patienten mit mykologisch gesicherter Tinea capitis wurden hinsichtlich Alter, Geschlecht und Erregerspektrum analysiert und über zwei Zeiträume von jeweils 12,5 Jahren miteinander verglichen.

Ergebnisse

Obwohl eine Tinea capitis am häufigsten bei Kindern der Altersgruppe zwischen 0 und 5 Jahren diagnostiziert wurde, lag der Anteil betroffener Erwachsener mit 16 % höher als bislang berichtet. Der zoophile Dermatophyt Microsporum canis konnte am häufigsten als Erreger der Tinea capitis identifiziert werden, jedoch war ein Anstieg von Infektionen mit den anthropophilen Pilzen Trichophyton tonsurans und Trichophyton rubrum zu verzeichnen. Tendenziell sank der Anteil zoophiler im Verhältnis zu den anthropophilen Erregern. Im zeitlichen Verlauf zeigte sich eine zunehmende Heterogenität des Erregerspektrums: Dermatophyten wie Trichophyton soudanense und Trichophyton violaceum, Trichophyton anamorph von Arthroderma benhamiae sowie Trichophyton schoenleinii und Microsporum audouinii konnten erstmalig bzw. nach langer Zeit wieder erneut isoliert werden.

Schlussfolgerungen

Wenngleich Microsporum‐canis‐Infektionen noch dominieren, sind zunehmend anthropophile Erreger nachzuweisen. Angesichts des unerwartet hohen Anteils von Erwachsenen sollte eine Tinea capitis in allen Altersgruppen differenzialdiagnostisch in Betracht gezogen werden.
Heteronormative Labour: Conflicting Accountability Structures among Men in Nursing
Authors: Cottingham Marci D. , Johnson Austin H. , Taylor Tiffany
Published: August 2016

Drawing on interview and diary data from 40 men in nursing in the US, the current study advances our theoretical understanding of how heteronormativity and masculinity intersect to shape men's performance of carework. Men in nursing are constrained by their accountability to stereotypes that they are gay and/or hypersexual, challenging their work in the feminized profession of nursing. As heteronormativity is embedded in the institution of health care, men nurses of all sexualities must perform additional labour on the job to reconcile their conflicting accountability to heteronormative stereotypes and occupational standards of care. We conceptualize this additional labour as heteronormative labour — work performed in order to strategically manage heteronormative expectations and realized through discursive, cognitive and emotional strategies. The experiences of men in caring professions remain rich for advancing theory on the relationship between sexuality and gender generally and in the workplace.
Patient participation in patient safety still missing: Patient safety experts' views
Authors: Sahlström Merja , Partanen Pirjo , Rathert Cheryl , Turunen Hannele
Published: August 2016

The aim of this study was to elicit patient safety experts' views of patient participation in promoting patient safety. Data were collected between September and December in 2014 via an electronic semi‐structured questionnaire and interviews with Finnish patient safety experts (n = 21), then analysed using inductive content analysis. Patient safety experts regarded patients as having a crucial role in promoting patient safety. They generally deemed the level of patient safety as ‘acceptable’ in their organizations, but reported that patient participation in their own safety varied, and did not always meet national standards. Management of patient safety incidents differed between organizations. Experts also suggested that patient safety training should be increased in both basic and continuing education programmes for healthcare professionals. Patient participation in patient safety is still lacking in clinical practice and systematic actions are needed to create a safety culture in which patients are seen as equal partners in the promotion of high‐quality and safe care.
Effects of Nd Content on Structure and Chemical Durability of Zirconolite–Barium Borosilicate Glass‐Ceramics
Authors: Wu Lang , Li Huidong , Wang Xin , Xiao Jizong , Teng Yuancheng , Li Yuxiang
Published: August 2016

The effects of Nd2O3 content (0–12 wt %) on crystalline phases, microstructure, and chemical durability of barium borosilicate glass‐ceramics belonging to SiO2–B2O3–Na2O–BaO–CaO–TiO2–ZrO2–Nd2O3 system were studied. The results show that the glass‐ceramics with 2–6 wt% of Nd2O3 possess mainly zirconolite and titanite phases along with a small amount baddeleyite phase in the bulk. Calcium titanate appears when the Nd2O3 content increases to 8 wt%, and the amount of quadrate calcium titanate crystals increases with further increasing content of Nd2O3. For the glass‐ceramics with 6 wt% Nd2O3 (Nd‐6), Nd elements homogeneously distribute in zirconolite, titanite, and residual glass phases. There is a strong enrichment of Nd in calcium titanate crystals for the sample with 10 wt% Nd2O3. The viscosity of Nd‐6 glass is about 49 dPa·s at 1150°C. Moreover, Nd‐6 glass‐ceramics show the lower normalized leaching rates of B (LRB), Ca (LRCa), and Nd (LRNd) when compared to that of the sample with 8 wt% Nd2O3. After 42 days, LRB, LRCa, and LRNd of the Nd‐6 glass‐ceramics are about 6.8 × 10−3, 1.6 × 10−3, and 4.4 × 10−6 g·m−2·d−1, respectively.
Factors affecting adaptation to the role of motherhood in mothers of preterm infants admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit: a qualitative study
Authors: Heydarpour Sousan , Keshavarz Zohreh , Bakhtiari Maryam
Published: August 2016

Aim

The aim of this study was to explore factors affecting adaptation to the role of motherhood in mothers of preterm infants admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit.

Background

Transition to motherhood often causes significant issues in terms of adaptation to the role of motherhood. The main factors leading to parental stress, especially in the neonatal intensive care unit, have shown that the greatest source of stress is the loss of women's role as mothers.

Design

It was a qualitative study with content analysis approach.

Methods

Semi‐structured in‐depth interviews were used for data collection. Interviews were conducted with 17 mothers of preterm infants (under 36 weeks) who had been hospitalized for at least one week in the neonatal intensive care unit. Purposive sampling with maximum diversity was used to recruit mothers in Kermanshah province (west of Iran). Data was collected during 2013–2014. Interviews were recorded and transcribed verbatim. Data were analysed using conventional content analysis.

Findings

Explanation of the mothers' perspective towards factors affecting adaptation to the role of motherhood led to two main categories of individual factors (emotional distress, self‐efficacy, interaction and alienation) and social factors (support, prejudice).

Conclusion

Adaptation to the role of motherhood can be promoted through supporting mothers of preterm infants, empowering them and increasing their self‐efficacy, to eliminate negative factors and emotions.
Integrative review: nurses' roles and experiences in keeping children safe
Authors: Lines Lauren E. , Hutton Alison E. , Grant Julian
Published: August 2016

Aim

To identify nurses' role and experiences of keeping children safe.

Background

Approaches to preventing, identifying and responding to child abuse and neglect have moved towards a multidisciplinary approach where all professionals are expected to contribute to the goal of keeping children safe. Frequently in contact with children and families, nurses well positioned to contribute to keeping children safe from abuse and neglect. Much has been published around nurses' experiences of their role in keeping children safe, but this literature has not yet been synthesized to determine the challenges and potential scope of this role.

Design

Integrative review following an Integrative Review framework.

Data sources

Studies were identified through a search of the electronic databases CINAHL, Medline, Web of Science, Scopus and Informit to identify literature published between 2005‐2015.

Review methods

All the studies were critically appraised for methodological quality using the Critical Skills Appraisal Programme. Data from each study were extracted and categorized according to the review aims and the study's major findings.

Results

Inclusion criteria were met in 60 studies. Three main findings were identified including nurses' insufficient knowledge, need for validation and improved communication and balancing surveillance and support for vulnerable families.

Conclusions

Nurses have many roles and experiences in keeping children safe but often felt they did not have the knowledge, skills and support to take action in this area. Further research is needed to understand why nurses feel inadequate and disempowered to advocate and intervene on the behalf of children at risk of abuse or neglect.
The use of leucocyte and platelet‐rich fibrin in socket management and ridge preservation: a split‐mouth, randomized, controlled clinical trial
Authors: Temmerman Andy , Vandessel Jeroen , Castro Ana , Jacobs Reinhilde , Teughels Wim , Pinto Nelson , Quirynen Marc
Published: August 2016

Aim

To investigate the influence of the use L‐PRF as a socket filling material and its ridge preservation properties.

Materials and Methods

Twenty‐two patients in need of single bilateral and closely symmetrical tooth extractions in the maxilla or mandible were included in a split‐mouth RCT. Treatments were randomly assigned (L‐PRF socket filling versus natural healing). CBCT scans were obtained after tooth extraction and three months. Scans were evaluated by superimposition using the original DICOM data. Mean ridge width differences between timepoints were measured at three levels below the crest on both the buccal and lingual sides (crest −1 mm (primary outcome variable), −3 mm and −5 mm).

Results

Mean vertical height changes at the buccal were −1.5 mm (±1.3) for control sites and 0.5 mm (±2.3) for test sites (p < 0.005). At the buccal side, control sites values were, respectively, −2.1 (±2.5), −0.3 mm (±0.3) (p < 0.005) and −0.1 mm (±0.0), and test sites values were, respectively, −0.6 mm (±2.2) (p < 0.005), −0.1 mm (±0.3) and 0.0 mm (±0.1). Significant differences (p < 0.005) were found for total width reduction between test (−22.84%) and control sites (−51.92%) at 1 mm below crest level. Significant differences were found for socket fill (visible mineralized bone) between test (94.7%) and control sites (63.3%).

Conclusion

The use of L‐PRF as a socket filling material to achieve preservation of horizontal and vertical ridge dimension at three  months after tooth extraction is beneficial.
Lunar influence on prey availability, diet shifts and niche overlap betweenEngraulidae larvae in tropical mangrove creeks
Authors: Lima A. R. A. , Barletta M.
Published: August 2016

The influence of the lunar cycle on prey availability, diet shifts and overlap between larvalAnchovia clupeoidesandCetengraulis edentuluswas evaluated in mangrove creeks of the Goiana Estuary. Copepod eggs were highly abundant in the first and last quarter, at the full moon and zoea ofUcides cordatus(Ocypodidae) in the new moon. The Engraulidae larvae fed on microcrustaceans, algae and early planktonic stages of benthic organisms. The relative importance of prey varied according to prey availability in all moon phases. Larval diets were more even in the full and new moons, when the relative importance of calanoid copepods and zoeae ofU. cordatusas food items increased (index of relative importance, >80%IRI). Mangrove creeks were very important feeding grounds for engraulid larvae during spring tides. Larval diets were more diverse in the first and last‐quarter moon and included protozoeae of Caridean shrimp, larvae ofAnomalocardia brasiliana(Veneridae), Isopoda, Gastropoda, ephippium ofDaphniasp. and nauplii of Cirripedia, Harpacticoidia and cyclopoid Copepoda. The last five items were not found in the creeks, suggesting feeding in the main channel. During neap tides, mangrove creeks were probably also used as refugia. These larvae are opportunistic and feed on highly available prey and both species feed on the same items, leading to high dietary overlap in all moon phases. The lunar cycle, which is related to the spring‐neap tidal cycle, was the major driver of quantitative and qualitative changes in feeding of engraulid larvae on a short time scale.
Preliminary Data on a Care Coordination Program for Home Care Recipients
Authors: Dean Katie M. , Hatfield Laura A. , Jena Anupam B. , Cristman David , Flair Michael , Kator Kylie , Nudd Geoffrey , Grabowski David C.
Published: August 2016

Home care recipients are often hospitalized for potentially avoidable reasons. A pilot program (Intervention in Home Care to Improve Health Outcomes (In‐Home)) was designed to help home care providers identify acute clinical changes in condition and then manage the condition in the home and thereby avoid a costly hospitalization. Caregivers answer simple questions about the care recipient's condition during a telephone‐based “clock‐out” at the end of each shift. Responses are electronically captured in the agency management software that caregivers use to “clock‐in,” manage care, and “clock‐out” on every shift. These are transmitted to the agency's care manager, who follows up on the change in condition and escalates appropriately. A description of the In‐Home model is presented, and pilot data from 22 home care offices are reported. In the pilot, caregivers reported a change in condition after 2% of all shifts, representing an average of 1.9 changes per care recipient in a 6‐month period. Changes in behavior and skin condition were the most frequently recorded domains. Interviews with participating caregivers and care managers suggested positive attitudes regarding the intervention; challenges included resistance to change on the part of home care staff and difficulties in applying a uniform intervention to individuals with varying needs in home care offices with varying capacities. In an ongoing randomized trial, the success of the overall program will be measured primarily according to the potential reduction in avoidable hospitalizations of home care recipients and the effect this potential reduction has on spending and healthcare outcomes.
Needs among persons with human immunodeficiency virus and intellectual and developmental disabilities in community mental health care: a cross‐sectional study
Authors: Durbin A. , Sirotich F. , Lunsky Y. , Roesslein K. , Durbin J.
Published: August 2016

Background

The experience of having human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is often associated with co‐occurring mental health issues. Community mental health services are an important source of support for persons with HIV living in the community. Persons with intellectual disability (ID) are vulnerable to HIV and may have unique support needs beyond those without ID receiving community care. This study compared support needs of men with HIV in community mental health programmes, with and without ID.

Methods

The sample was composed of 138 HIV‐positive men with and without ID receiving mental health case management from one community organisation in Ontario, Canada, on 31 March 2013. Staff‐rated needs across 16 domains grouped into four clusters were measured using the Camberwell Assessment of Need: Basic needs (accommodation, food, public transportation, money and benefits); self‐care/functional needs (looking after the home, self‐care and daytime activities); health/safety needs (physical health, psychological distress, psychotic symptoms, safety to self and safety to others); and social needs (company, intimate relationships and sexual expression). Adjusted logistic regression models examined the association between ID and each need domain.

Results

One‐quarter of the sample (n = 34/138, 24.6%) had co‐occurring ID. Those with ID were more likely to have needs in the basic cluster [odds ratios: food 4.05 (1.14, 14.44), P:0.031; benefits 2.58 (1.05, 6.32), P:0.038)] and self‐care/functional cluster [looking after the home (2.75 (1.17, 6.49), P:0.021); self‐care (2.72 (1.18, 6.27), P:0.019)], but were less likely to have need for sexual expression: 0.35 (0.14,0.90), P:0.030) (social cluster). There were no differences in the domains in the health/safety cluster.

Conclusion

Despite elevated cognitive needs in the basic and self‐care/functional clusters for the ID group, limited other differences suggest that with moderate additional targeting, community mental health programmes for persons with HIV may be appropriate for men with ID.
Homocysteine metabolism is associated with cerebrospinal fluid levels of soluble amyloid precursor protein and amyloid beta
Authors: Oikonomidi Aikaterini , Lewczuk Piotr , Kornhuber Johannes , Smulders Yvo , Linnebank Michael , Semmler Alexander , Popp Julius
Published: August 2016

Disturbed homocysteine metabolism may contribute to amyloidogenesis by modulating the amyloid precursor protein (APP) production and processing. The objective of this study was to investigate the relationships between cerebral amyloid production and both blood and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) markers of the homocysteine metabolism. We assessed CSF concentrations of soluble APPα, soluble APPβ, and amyloid β1‐42 (Aβ1‐42), as well as plasma levels of homocysteine (Hcys), total vitamin B12, and folate, and CSF concentrations of homocysteine (Hcys‐CSF), 5‐methyltetrahydrofolate (5‐MTHF), S‐adenosylmethionine (SAM), and S‐adenosylhomocysteine (SAH) in 59 subjects with normal cognition. Linear regression analyses were performed to assess associations between homocysteine metabolism parameters and amyloid production. The study was approved by the Ethical Committee of the University of Bonn. After controlling for age, gender, APOEe4 status, and albumin ratio (Qalb), higher Aβ1‐42 CSF levels were associated with high Hcys and low vitamin B12 plasma levels as well as with high Hcys, high SAH, and low 5‐MTHF CSF levels. Higher CSF concentrations of sAPPα and sAPPβ were associated with high SAH levels. The results suggest that disturbed homocysteine metabolism is related to increased CSF levels of sAPP forms and Aβ1‐42, and may contribute to the accumulation of amyloid pathology in the brain.

image

Disturbed homocysteine metabolism may contribute to amyloidogenesis by modulating the amyloid precursor protein (APP) production and processing. We found associations between CSF levels of soluble APP forms and Aβ1‐42, and markers of the homocysteine metabolism in both plasma and CSF in adults with normal cognition. Disturbed homocysteine metabolism may represent a target for preventive and early disease‐modifying interventions in Alzheimer's disease.
Work engagement–team performance relationship: shared job crafting as a moderator
Authors: Mäkikangas Anne , Aunola Kaisa , Seppälä Piia , Hakanen Jari
Published: August 2016

The aims of this study were twofold: first, to investigate whether both individual and team work engagement are associated with team members' perceived team performance, and, second, to explore whether shared job crafting within teams moderates the relationship between work engagement and team members' perceived team performance. Data were collected from 1,074 Finnish educational sector employees working in 102 teams. Multilevel analysis revealed that both individual and team work engagement were associated with high levels of perceived team performance. The association between work engagement (both individual and team) and perceived team performance, however, varied across teams. The variation in the individual work engagement–perceived team performance relation was explained by shared job crafting of resources (but not of challenging demands): The higher the level of increasing structural and social job resources in the team, the stronger the association between individuals' work engagement and perceived team performance in that team. To conclude, shared job crafting in a team promotes a team climate in which, by increasing individual work engagement, it is possible to enhance team performance.

Practitioner points

Both individual and team work engagement contribute to a team's performance.

Engaged employees are able to boost team performance, especially in teams where job crafting is common.

Job crafting behaviour should be promoted at both the individual and team level in order to contribute to team performance.
Older Rural‐ and Urban‐Dwelling Appalachian Adults With Mild Cognitive Impairment
Authors: Mattos Meghan K. , Snitz Beth E. , Lingler Jennifer H. , Burke Lora E. , Novosel Lorraine M. , Sereika Susan M.
Published: August 2016

Purpose

Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is a well‐recognized risk state for Alzheimer's disease and other dementias. MCI is rapidly increasing among older adults in general and has not yet been examined in older adults within the Appalachian region. Our objective was to compare MCI symptom severity among older rural and urban Appalachian adults with MCI at an initial neuropsychological testing visit.

Methods

A cross‐sectional, descriptive study of older Appalachian adults with MCI was conducted using data from the National Alzheimer's Coordinating Center Uniform Data Set. Symptom severity was conceptualized as neuropsychological composite scores across 4 cognitive domains and Clinical Dementia Rating‐Sum of Boxes (CDR‐SOB) score. For group comparisons, MANCOVA was used for cognitive domains and ANCOVA for CDR‐SOB.

Results

The sample (N = 289) was about half male (54.3%), predominantly white (91.7%), and living with others (83.5%), with a mean (±SD) 74.6 ± 6.2 years of age and 15.4 ± 3.0 years of education. Rural and urban groups differed significantly in years since onset of cognitive symptoms (2.98 ± 1.91 in rural and 3.89 ± 2.70 in urban adults,t[260] = –2.23,P= .03), but they did not differ across sociodemographic features or comorbid conditions. Rural and urban participants were similar across the 4 cognitive domains and CDR‐SOB (P≥ .05).

Discussion

No differences were found between rural and urban Appalachian residents on MCI symptom severity. However, urban residents reported a longer time lapse from symptom identification to diagnosis than their rural counterparts. Future studies using more representative population samples of Appalachian and non‐Appalachian adults will provide an important next step to identifying disparate cognitive health outcomes in this traditionally underserved region.
Structure influence on mechanical and acoustic properties of freeze‐dried gels obtained with the use of hydrocolloids
Authors: Ciurzyńska Agnieszka , Marzec Agata , Mieszkowska Arleta , Lenart Andrzej
Published: August 2016

The influence of the structure formed by the type of hydrocolloids (low‐methoxyl pectin, the mixture of xanthan gum, and locust bean gum, and mixture of xanthan gum, and guar gum) and the aeration time (3, 5, 7, and 9 min) on textural properties of freeze‐dried gels were investigated. The hardest texture generating the strongest acoustic emission was obtained by freeze‐dried pectin gel, characterised by the lowest porosity and the largest pore diameter. Aeration time significantly affected mechanical and acoustic properties of the pectin gel lyophilisate. No effect of gel aeration time on tested characteristics of samples with mixture of hydrocolloids was observed. Strong positive correlations between acoustic energy as well as the maximum force and work and negative ones between porosity and pore diameter indicate that greater resilience and stronger acoustic emission of freeze‐dried gels was caused by the reduction of porosity and the increase in the pore size of the material.

Practical applications

The research is expected to show the phenomenon of structure formation when preparing and freeze‐drying gels and explain the influence of the process parameters (time of aeration, the type of hydrocolloids) on the formation of the internal structure and physical properties of a dried product, especially mechanical and acoustic properties. This achievement will contribute to the development of the science of food and human nutrition, especially within the context of the popular research on aerated diet products. The expected result will be the ability to develop a new technology for producing food with a delicate texture, using the phenomenon of sublimation. As a result, designing changes in the structure of freeze‐dried fruit gels with a delicate structure will be possible due to the choice of ingredients and aeration parameters in order to develop innovative food characterised by favorable nutritional, health and functional properties, which will be attractive for the consumers.
The addition effect of Tunisian date seed fibers on the quality of chocolate spreads
Authors: Bouaziz Mohamed Ali , Abbes Fatma , Mokni Abir , Blecker Christophe , Attia Hamadi , Besbes Souhail
Published: August 2016

Novel chocolate spreads were enriched by soluble and insoluble dietary fibers from Tunisian Deglet Nour date seeds at 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5% levels in the conventional chocolate spread. Defatted Deglet Nour date seeds, date seed soluble fiber concentrate (DSSFC) and date seed insoluble fiber concentrate (DSIFC) were characterized by high levels of dietary fibers (80–90%). Chocolate spread enriched with 5% of DSSFC presented the highest oil binding capacity (304.62%) compared to the control (102%). Whatever the DSIFC and DSSFC incorporation levels, no significant difference was recorded between the firmness, chewiness, and adhesiveness of prepared chocolate spreads compared to the control (p < .05). Sensory evaluation revealed that all prepared chocolate spreads enriched by DSIFC and DSSFC were accepted by panelists. These results indicated the value of date seeds as new source of dietary fibers to develop chocolate spread and could also improve health benefits and functional properties.

Paractical application

Tunisia is considered to be one of the dates‐producing countries. The mean annual yield of date fruits is about 200,000 tons. From this, around 20,000 tons of date seeds could be collected. This by‐product of date processing industries could be regarded as an excellent source of dietary fiber with interesting technological functionality and many beneficial effects on human health. Then, date seeds could present a value addition by extraction and use of date seed fiber concentrate in chocolate spread formulation.
Fruits and vegetables are incorporated into home cuisine in different ways that are relevant to promoting increased consumption
Authors: Penny Mary E. , Meza Krysty S. , Creed‐Kanashiro Hilary M. , Marin R. Margot , Donovan Jason
Published: August 2016

Fruits and vegetables are essential for healthy life. We examined the fruits and vegetables consumption by 240 caregivers and their children aged 1–17 years in peri‐urban Lima, and the ways that they were incorporated into local cuisine. A randomized cross‐sectional household survey collected information on the weight of all foods eaten the previous day (24 h) including fruits and vegetables, their preparation and serving sizes. Fruit and vegetable consumption was low and very variable: fruit intake was mean 185.2 ± 171.5 g day−1, median 138 g day−1 for caregivers and 203.6 ± 190.6 g day−1 and 159 g day−1 for children, vegetable intake was mean 116.9 ± 94.0 g day−1 median 92 g day−1 for caregivers, mean 89.3 ± 84.7 g day−1 median 60 g day−1 for children. Only 23.8% of children and 26.2% of caregivers met the recommended ≥400 g of fruit or vegetable/day. Vegetables were mainly eaten either as ingredients of the main course recipe, eaten by about 80% of caregivers and children, or as salads eaten by 47% of caregivers and 42% of children. Fruits were most commonly eaten as whole fresh fruits eaten by 68% of caregivers and 75% of children. In multivariate analysis of the extent to which different presentations contributed to daily fruit and vegetable consumption, main courses contributed most to determining vegetable intake for caregivers, and for children, main course and salads had similar contributions. For fruit intake, the amount eaten as whole fruit determined total fruit and total fruit plus vegetable intake for both caregivers and children. Local cuisine should be considered in interventions to promote fruit and vegetable consumption. © 2016 John Wiley & Sons Ltd
Metabolic pathways regulated by abscisic acid, salicylic acid and γ‐aminobutyric acid in association with improved drought tolerance in creeping bentgrass (Agrostis stolonifera)
Authors: Li Zhou , Yu Jingjin , Peng Yan , Huang Bingru
Published: August 2016

Abscisic acid (ABA), salicylic acid (SA) and γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA) are known to play roles in regulating plant stress responses. This study was conducted to determine metabolites and associated pathways regulated by ABA, SA and GABA that could contribute to drought tolerance in creeping bentgrass (Agrostis stolonifera). Plants were foliar sprayed with ABA (5 μM), GABA (0.5 mM) and SA (10 μM) or water (untreated control) prior to 25 days drought stress in controlled growth chambers. Application of ABA, GABA or SA had similar positive effects on alleviating drought damages, as manifested by the maintenance of lower electrolyte leakage and greater relative water content in leaves of treated plants relative to the untreated control. Metabolic profiling showed that ABA, GABA and SA induced differential metabolic changes under drought stress. ABA mainly promoted the accumulation of organic acids associated with tricarboxylic acid cycle (aconitic acid, succinic acid, lactic acid and malic acid). SA strongly stimulated the accumulation of amino acids (proline, serine, threonine and alanine) and carbohydrates (glucose, mannose, fructose and cellobiose). GABA enhanced the accumulation of amino acids (GABA, glycine, valine, proline, 5‐oxoproline, serine, threonine, aspartic acid and glutamic acid) and organic acids (malic acid, lactic acid, gluconic acid, malonic acid and ribonic acid). The enhanced drought tolerance could be mainly due to the enhanced respiration metabolism by ABA, amino acids and carbohydrates involved in osmotic adjustment (OA) and energy metabolism by SA, and amino acid metabolism related to OA and stress‐defense secondary metabolism by GABA.
In vitro effects of different sources of fibrinogen supplementation on clot initiation and stability in a model of dilutional coagulopathy
Authors: Schäfer N. , Driessen A. , Bauerfeind U. , Fröhlich M. , Ofir J. , Stürmer E. K. , Maegele M.
Published: August 2016

Objectives

To analyse which fibrinogen source may improve coagulation using an in vitro 33% dilutional coagulopathy model.

Background

Uncritical volume resuscitation in the context of trauma haemorrhage contributes to the iatrogenic arm of the acute trauma‐induced coagulopathy through dilution and depletion of coagulation factors, with fibrinogen reaching critical levels first.

Materials and Methods

By using an experimental model of 33% dilutional coagulopathy, we have analysed which fibrinogen source may exert superior effects on improving haemocoagulative capacities and correcting depleted fibrinogen levels. As fibrinogen sources, we supplemented (i) fresh frozen plasma (FFP), (ii) fibrinogen concentrate low‐dose (Fiblow) and (iii) fibrinogen concentrate high‐dose (Fibhigh), the latter both in the presence and absence of additional FXIII.

Results

The dilution was associated with decreased haemoglobin and haematocrit levels. Fibrinogen supplementation with fibrinogen‐containing formulations led to increased fibrinogen levels (FFP: 172·2 ± 17·4 mg dL−1; Fiblow: 211·5 ± 20·61 mg dL−1; Fibhigh: 255·8 ± 21·4 mg dL−1) than in a diluted‐only sample (155·5 ± 19·7 mg dL−1). Extrinsically activated assay with tissue factor (EXTEM) clot formation times, α‐angles and maximum clot firmness significantly improved in the groups of Fiblow + FXIII (79 ± 12·2 s; 74·3 ± 2·4°; 62 ± 2·3 mm), Fibhigh (70·8 ± 10·6 s; 76·2 ± 2·7°; 64·3 ± 2·3 mm) and Fibhigh + FXIII (69·8 ± 11·5 s; 77·5 ± 2·7°; 64·33 ± 2·5 mm) compared with the dilution groups (104·2 ± 19 s; 69·7 ± 2·9°; 56·5 ± 3·1 mm). In contrast, rotational thromboelastometric trace (ROTEM) measures of samples supplemented with FFP largely remained unchanged.

Conclusion

Fibrinogen concentrates corrected and improved haemodilution‐induced changes in blood clotting in vitro. High‐dose fibrinogen supplementation was associated with correction and improvement in clot dynamics and stability.
IL‐4 downregulates expression of the target receptor CD30 in neoplastic canine mast cells
Authors: Bauer K. , Hadzijusufovic E. , Cerny‐Reiterer S. , Hoermann G. , Reifinger M. , Pirker A. , Valent P. , Willmann M.
Published: August 2016

CD30 is a novel therapeutic target in human mast cell (MC) neoplasms. In this ‘comparative oncology’ study, we examined CD30 expression and regulation in neoplastic canine MC using a panel of immunomodulatory cytokines [interleukin‐2 (IL‐2), IL‐4, IL‐5, IL‐6, IL‐13 and stem cell factor (SCF)] and the canine mastocytoma cell lines NI‐1 and C2. Of all cytokines tested IL‐4 was found to downregulate expression of CD30 in NI‐1 and C2 cells. We also found that the CD30‐targeting antibody‐conjugate brentuximab vedotin induces growth inhibition and apoptosis in both MC lines. Next, we asked whether IL‐4‐induced downregulation of CD30 interferes with brentuximab vedotin‐effects. Indeed, pre‐incubation of NI‐1 cells with IL‐4 decreased responsiveness towards brentuximab vedotin. To overcome IL‐4‐mediated resistance, we applied drug combinations and found that brentuximab vedotin synergizes with the Kit‐targeting drugs masitinib and PKC412 in inhibiting growth of NI‐1 and C2 cells. In summary, CD30 is a new marker and IL‐4‐regulated target in neoplastic canine MC.
Validation of the Accutrend Plus point‐of‐care triglyceride analyzer in horses, ponies, and donkeys
Authors: Pongratz Michaela C. , Junge Hannah K. , Riond Barbara , Schwarzwald Colin C.
Published: August 2016

Objective

To assess the accuracy and reliability of a point‐of‐care (POC) triglyceride analyzer and to establish reference intervals for blood ([TRIG]POC/WB) and plasma triglyceride concentrations ([TRIG]POC/PL) in horses, ponies, and donkeys.

Design

Prospective study.

Setting

University teaching hospital.

Animals

120 adult healthy equids (78 horses and ponies, 42 donkeys) and 79 equids suffering from hypertriglyceridemia (73 horses and ponies, 6 donkeys).

Interventions

None.

Measurements and Main Results

[TRIG]POC/WB and [TRIG]POC/PL were measured using a POC analyzer and plasma triglyceride concentrations were measured using a standard laboratory assay ([TRIG]LAB/PL). Reference intervals were determined. Test accuracy was assessed by Bland–Altman comparison of POC measurements with standard laboratory measurements and by evaluating linearity of dilutional series. Test reliability was assessed by repeated serial measurements.

[TRIG]POC/WB and [TRIG]POC/PL were below the analytic range of the POC assay (<0.8 mmol/L [<70 mg/dL]) in healthy horses and ponies, whereas the reference intervals were 0.82–3.14 mmol/L (73–278 mg/dL) and 0.87–3.02 mmol/L (77–267 mg/dL), respectively, in donkeys. The POC analyzer systematically overestimated triglyceride concentrations when compared to a standard laboratory assay. The difference between [TRIG]POC/WB and [TRIG]POC/PL was small and clinically negligible. The coefficient of variation of repeated measures performed on the POC analyzer was below 10% for [TRIG]POC/WB and [TRIG]POC/PL, both in horses and donkeys and at all concentration ranges.

Conclusions

The POC analyzer allows accurate and reliable measurement of [TRIG]POC/WB and [TRIG]POC/PL in horses, ponies, and donkeys in clinical settings. Assay‐specific reference intervals should be determined for diagnosis and clinical monitoring of hypertriglyceridemia in equids.
Growth differentiation factor 11 (GDF11) – a promising anti‐ageing factor – is highly concentrated in platelets
Authors: Bueno J. L. , Ynigo M. , de Miguel C. , Gonzalo‐Daganzo R. M. , Richart A. , Vilches C. , Regidor C. , García‐Marco J. A. , Flores‐Ballester E. , Cabrera J. R.
Published: August 2016

Recent research suggests that growth differentiation factor 11 (GDF11) could reverse age‐related diseases and that its blood concentration decreases with age. This poses plasma from young donors as a therapeutic GDF11 source to treat age‐related diseases. In addition, the tissue source of circulating GDF11 remains unknown. We analysed GDF11 levels in paired samples of serum, plasma and platelet lysate (PL) from 23 volunteers. Plasma and PL were collected by plateletpheresis. Here, we show that GDF11 is highly concentrated in platelets and that the circulating levels reported in previous studies could be biased as a result of serum sample manipulation.
The Elaboration Model in Adapted Activity Research: Increasing the Programmatic Value of Program Evaluations
Authors: Hunter I. Roy , Reynolds Ronald P. , Williams M. Laura
Published: August 2016

The purpose of this article is to introduce practitioners involved in the provision of adapted activity service to the elaboration model of data analysis. The authors contend that the use of the elaboration model for the analysis of program evaluation data: (a) can be used by activity specialists who do not have extensive training in statistics, and (b) can increase the potential for the production of empirically based programmatic recommendations from such data.

The example presented herein involves the secondary analysis of data collected during the evaluation of a child life activity program. The original study concluded that the children studied showed less regressive behavior on nights that the child life program was offered. The findings from the secondary analysis enabled the identification of children who were: (a) more likely to experience regressive behavior, and (b) more likely to be responsive to existing child life programs. It was concluded that the use of the elaboration model significantly increased the value of recommendations which were derived from the data.