bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of the NZ guidelines for screening for persistent postpartum hyperglycaemia following gestational diabetes
Authors: Hughes Ruth C. E. , Florkowski Chris , Gullam Joanna E.
Published: November 2017

Background

Recent New Zealand guidelines recommend annual glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) measurements from three months postpartum, replacing the glucose tolerance test (GTT) at six weeks, to screen for persistent hyperglycaemia following gestational diabetes. Data suggest that this screening approach may miss cases of type 2 diabetes, but are they detected at subsequent screening and will screening rates improve?

Aims

Our aim was to evaluate the effectiveness of HbA1c monitoring in improving screening rates following gestational diabetes and in detecting postpartum hyperglycaemia.

Materials and Methods

During 2015 in Christchurch, all women with gestational diabetes were offered HbA1c and GTT measurements at three months postpartum and subsequent annual HbA1c measurements were recommended. Data from electronic hospital records were collected for a minimum 18 months postpartum.

Results

Of the cohort of 333 women, 218 (65%) completed both HbA1c and GTT at three months postpartum, 74 (22%) HbA1c only, 16 (5%) GTT only, 25 (8%) no screening; 184 (55%) had subsequent HbA1c tests. Diabetes was detected by GTT in five (2%) women and by HbA1c in only one out of five (20%); the disagreement between tests resolved in three out of four (75%) women with subsequent testing. Prediabetes was detected by GTT in 30 (14%) women; however, HbA1c only detected five out of 30 (17%) and subsequent HbA1c testing identified a further two out of 30 with prediabetes.

Conclusions

HbA1c measurement at three months postpartum had a good uptake. However, most cases of diabetes were identified by subsequent HbA1c testing, the uptake of which was suboptimal. The importance of annual HbA1c monitoring following gestational diabetes needs greater emphasis.
In Vivo Validation of a Less Invasive Gastrostimulator
Authors: Lonys Laurent , Vanhoestenberghe Anne , Huberty Vincent , Hiernaux Martin , Cauche Nicolas , Julémont Nicolas , Debelle Adrien , Huberland François , Acuña Vicente , Godfraind Carmen , Devière Jacques , Delchambre Alain , Mathys Pierre , Deleuze Stefan , Nonclercq Antoine
Published: November 2017

Gastrointestinal stimulator implants have recently shown promising results in helping obese patients lose weight. However, to place the implant, the patient currently needs to undergo an invasive surgical procedure. We report a less invasive procedure to stimulate the stomach with a gastrostimulator. After attempting fully endoscopic implantation, we more recently focused on a single incision percutaneous procedure. In both cases, the challenges in electronic design of the implant are largely similar. This article covers the work achieved to meet these and details the in vivo validation of a gastrostimulator aimed to be endoscopically placed and anchored to the stomach.
Effects of Sensitive Electrical Stimulation‐Based Somatosensory Cueing in Parkinson's Disease Gait and Freezing of Gait Assessment
Authors: Sijobert Benoît , Azevedo Christine , Andreu David , Verna Claudia , Geny Christian
Published: November 2017

This study aims to investigate the effect of a somatosensory cueing on gait disorders in subjects with Parkinson's disease (PD). After having performed stepping in place and timed up and go assessing tasks, 13 participants with PD were equipped with an electrical stimulator and an inertial measurement unit (IMU) located under the lateral malleolus on the sagittal plane. Electrodes were positioned under the arch of the foot and electrical stimulation (ES) parameters (five 500 µs/phase charge‐balanced biphasic pulses delivered at 200 Hz, repeated four times at 10 Hz) adjusted to deliver a sensitive signal. Online IMU signal was processed in order to trigger ES at heel off detection. Starting from a quiet standing posture, subjects were asked to walk at their preferred speed on a path including 5 m straight line, u‐turn, and walk around tasks. Three situations were considered: no stimulation baseline precondition (C0), ES condition (C1), and no stimulation baseline post‐condition (C0bis), for eliminating a learning effect possibility. In ES condition (C1) the time to execute the different tasks was globally decreased in all the subjects (n = 13). Participants’ results were then grouped regarding whether they experienced freezing of gait (FOG) or not during C0 no stimulation baseline precondition. In “freezer” subjects (n = 9), the time to complete the entire path was reduced by 19%. FOG episodes occurrence was decreased by 12% compared to baseline conditions. This preliminary work showed a positive global effect on gait and FOG in PD by a somatosensory cueing based on sensitive electrical stimulation.
Growth factors for diabetic foot ulcers: mixed treatment comparison analysis of randomized clinical trials
Authors: Sridharan Kannan , Sivaramakrishnan Gowri
Published: November 2017

Aims

Topical growth factors accelerate wound healing in patients with diabetic foot ulcers (DFU). Due to the absence of head‐to‐head comparisons, we carried out Bayesian network meta‐analysis to compare the efficacy and safety of growth factors.

Methods

Using an appropriate search strategy, randomized controlled trials on topical growth factors compared with standard of care in patients with DFU, were included. Proportion of patients with complete healing was the primary outcome. Odds ratio (95% confidence interval) was used as the effect estimate and random effects model was used for both direct and indirect comparisons. Markov Chain Monte Carlo simulation was used to obtain pooled estimates. Rankogram was generated based on surface under the cumulative ranking curve (SUCRA).

Results

A total of 26 studies with 2088 participants and 1018 events were included. The pooled estimates for recombinant epidermal growth factor (rhEGF), autologous platelet rich plasma (PRP), recombinant human platelet‐derived growth factor (rhPDGF) were 5.72 [3.34, 10.37], 2.65 [1.60, 4.54] and 1.97 [1.54, 2.55] respectively. SUCRA for rhEGF was 0.95. Sensitivity analyses did not reveal significant changes from the pooled estimates and rankogram. No differences were observed in the overall risk of adverse events between the growth factors. However, the growth factors were observed to lower the risk of lower limb amputation compared to standard of care.

Conclusion

To conclude, rhEGF, rhPDGF and autologous PRP significantly improved the healing rate when used as adjuvants to standard of care, of which rhEGF may perform better than other growth factors. The strength of most of the outcomes assessed was low and the findings may not be applicable for DFU with infection or osteomyelitis. The findings of this study needs to be considered with caution as the results might change with findings from head‐to‐head studies.
Drug‐related deaths in hospital inpatients: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Montané Eva , Arellano Ana Lucía , Sanz Yolanda , Roca Josep , Farré Magí
Published: November 2017

Aims

To determine the incidence of drug‐related deaths (DRD) in a university hospital in 2015, to describe their characteristics, and to discover risk factors of DRD.

Methods

An analytic and retrospective cohort study. Patients with a death diagnosed predefined from a list of medical conditions potentially caused by drugs were the selected cases for further review. Causality assessment was evaluated by a local drug safety committee.

Results

Out of 1135 inpatient deaths, 73 DRD were included (six were hospital‐acquired). The incidence of DRD of all hospital admissions was 0.34%, and the incidence of all deaths cases was 7%. Drugs were the cause of death in 38 patients (52%) and a contributive role in 35 (48%). The median age of DRD patients was 72 years (range 19–94) and 72.6% were men. The median hospital stay, Charlson score and number of drugs were 5 days, 2 points and seven drugs respectively. The most frequent DRD were cerebral haemorrhages and infections in drug‐immunosuppressed patients (32, 43.8%, each group). The most frequently involved drugs were antineoplastics and glucocorticosteroids (40% and 18%), and antithrombotics (33%); drug–drug interactions were present in 44% DRD. Sex, age and number of drugs were risk factors of DRD.

Conclusions

Adverse drug reactions were a significant cause of death in hospitalized patients, mainly haemorrhages and infections precipitated by drug–drug interactions. Risk factors for DRD were sex, age and number of drugs. Preventable DRD and measures to avoid them should be accurately assessed in further studies.
Changes in mothers’ intended duration of breastfeeding from the prenatal to neonatal periods
Authors: Nelson Jennifer M. , Li Ruowei , Perrine Cria G. , Scanlon Kelley S.
Published: November 2017

Background

Although previous studies suggest that the intentions of mothers to breastfeed during pregnancy strongly predict actual breastfeeding practice, no studies have examined the changes in the intentions of mothers to breastfeed from the prenatal to neonatal periods. The purpose of this study was to examine changes in intended breastfeeding duration from the prenatal to neonatal periods, their association with actual duration, and predictors for shortened duration.

Methods

The Infant Feeding Practices Study II was a longitudinal study of mothers in the United States. Changes to intended breastfeeding duration were calculated as the difference from prenatal to neonatal reports (months); we compared this change to actual breastfeeding duration. By using multivariable logistic regression, we identified maternal characteristics associated with a shortened breastfeeding intention.

Results

Of 1780 women, 43.7% had no change to intended breastfeeding duration, 35.0% had a shorter intended duration, and 21.3% had a longer intended duration. Mothers with shortened intended duration also had shorter actual duration (P < .001). Women of Hispanic ethnicity, with a prepregnancy body mass index of ≥30 kg/m2, who were primiparous and who smoked prenatally had increased odds of shortening their breastfeeding intention from prenatal to neonatal reports. A maternal age of ≥35 years was associated with decreased odds of shortened breastfeeding intention.

Conclusion

Approximately one in three women shorten their intended breastfeeding duration during the early postpartum period, which negatively affects the actual duration of their breastfeeding. Women may need additional support during the early postpartum period to meet their prenatal breastfeeding intentions.
Flagellar incorporation of proteins follows at least two different routes in trypanosomes
Authors: Vincensini Laetitia , Blisnick Thierry , Bertiaux Eloïse , Hutchinson Sebastian , Georgikou Christina , Ooi Cher‐Pheng , Bastin Philippe
Published: November 2017

Background Information

Eukaryotic cilia and flagella are sophisticated organelles composed of several hundreds of proteins that need to be incorporated at the right time and the right place during assembly.

Results

Two methods were used to investigate this process in the model protist Trypanosoma brucei: inducible expression of epitope‐tagged labelled proteins and fluorescence recovery after photobleaching of fluorescent fusion proteins. This revealed that skeletal components of the radial spokes (RSP3), the central pair (PF16) and the outer dynein arms (DNAI1) are incorporated at the distal end of the growing flagellum. They display low or even no visible turnover in mature flagella, a finding further confirmed by monitoring a heavy chain of the outer dynein arm. In contrast, the membrane‐associated protein arginine kinase 3 (AK3) showed rapid turnover in both growing and mature flagella, without particular polarity and independently of intraflagellar transport.

Conclusion

These results demonstrate different modes of incorporation for structural and membrane‐associated proteins in flagella.

Significance

The existence of two distinct modes for incorporation of proteins in growing flagella suggests the existence of different targeting machineries. Moreover, the absence of turnover of structural elements supports the view that the length of the mature flagellum in trypanosomes is not modified after assembly.
Re‐assessment of the age and depositional origin of the Paviland Moraine, Gower, south Wales, UK
Authors: Shakesby Richard A. , Hiemstra John F. , Kulessa Bernd , Luckman Adrian J.
Published: November 2017

The Bristol Channel, including onshore areas, is critical for reconstructing Pleistocene glacial limits in southwest Britain. Debate about the precise regional southern limits of Devensian (Oxygen Isotope Stage (OIS) 2) and Anglian (OIS 12) glaciations has recently been rekindled. The Paviland Moraine (Llanddewi Formation), Gower, south Wales is conventionally regarded as Anglian in age. Its ‘old’ age has been based on reported highly weathered clasts, a subdued morphology and ‘field relationships’ to fossil beach sediments of now disputed age(s). Relatively little about its sedimentary characteristics has been previously published. This paper: (i) presents new sedimentological evidence including lithofacies analysis, XRF analysis and electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) of sediment cores and electrical resistivity of a tied 3D field grid; (ii) re‐assesses the proposed ‘old’ age; (iii) suggests a likely depositional origin; and (iv) discusses implications for regional glacial dynamics and future research priorities. The sediments comprise mostly dipping glacigenic diamict units containing mainly Welsh Coalfield erratics. The location and subdued moraine morphology are attributed to the hydrological influence of the underlying limestone, the local topography and ice‐sheet behaviour rather than to long‐term degradation. Moraine formation is attributed mainly to sediment gravity flows that coalesced to produce an ice‐frontal apron. Neither geochemical data nor clasts indicate prolonged subaerial weathering and in‐situ moraine sediments are restricted to a limestone plateau above and inland of fossil beach sediments. We recommend rejecting the view that the moraine represents the only recognized OIS 12 deposit in Wales and conclude that instead it marks the limit of relatively thin Last Glacial Maximum (LGM) ice in west Gower. This requires revision of the accepted view of a more restricted LGM limit in the area. We suggest that substrate hydrological conditions may be a more influential factor in moraine location and form than is currently acknowledged.
Taxonomic and functional ant diversity along a secondary successional gradient in a tropical forest
Authors: Rocha‐Ortega Maya , Arnan Xavier , Ribeiro‐Neto José Domingos , Leal Inara R. , Favila Mario E. , Martínez‐Ramos Miguel
Published: November 2017

The taxonomic diversity (TD) of tropical flora and fauna tends to increase during secondary succession. This increase may be accompanied by changes in functional diversity (FD), although the relationship between TD and FD is not well understood. To explore this relationship, we examined the correlations between the TD and FD of ants and forest age in secondary forests at the α‐ and β‐diversity levels using single‐ and multi‐trait‐based approaches. Our objectives were to understand ant diversity patterns and to evaluate the role of secondary forests in the conservation of biodiversity and in the resilience of tropical forests. Ant assemblages were sampled across a chronosequence in the Lacandon region, Mexico. All species were characterized according to 12 functional ecomorphological traits relevant to their feeding behavior. We found that TD and FD were related to forest age at the alpha level, but not at the beta level. α‐functional richness and divergence increased linearly with species richness and diversity, respectively. Also, the relationship between taxonomic and functional turnover was linear and positive. Our results indicated that functional traits were complementary across the chronosequence. The increase in FD was mainly driven by the addition of rare species with relevant traits. The older secondary forests did not recover all of the functions of old growth forest but did show a tendency to recovery. Because older successional stages support more TD and FD, we suggest developing agriculture and forestry management practices that facilitate rapid post‐agricultural succession and thereby better preserve the functionality of tropical forests.
Contextual and individual determinants of periodontal disease: Multilevel analysis based on Andersen's model
Authors: Valente Maria I. B. , Vettore Mario V.
Published: November 2017

Aim

To investigate the relationship of contextual and individual factors with periodontal disease in dentate adults and older people using the Andersen's behavioural model.

Methods

Secondary individual data from 6011 adults and 2369 older people from the Brazilian Oral Health Survey (2010) were combined with contextual data for 27 cities. Attachment loss (AL) categories for each sextant were coded and summed to obtain the periodontal disease measure. The association of predisposing, enabling and need characteristics at city and individual level with periodontal disease was assessed using an adapted version of the Andersen's behavioural model. Multilevel Poisson regression was used to estimate rate ratios (RR) and 95% CIs.

Results

Periodontal disease was associated with contextual predisposing (RR 0.93; 95% CI = 0.87‐0.99) and enabling factors (RR 0.99; 95% CI = 0.98‐0.99) in adults. Contextual predisposing was also associated with periodontal disease in older people (RR 0.82; 95% CI = 0.73‐0.92). Individual predisposing (age, sex and schooling) and need characteristics (perceived treatment need) were common predictors of periodontal disease in adults and older people. Periodontal disease was also associated with behaviours in the latter age group.

Conclusion

Contextual predisposing factors and individual characteristics influenced periodontal disease experience in adults and older people. Contextual enabling factors were also meaningful determinants of periodontal disease in the former age group.
Soluble TAM receptor tyrosine kinases in rheumatoid arthritis: correlation with disease activity and bone destruction
Authors: Xu L , Hu F , Zhu H , Liu X , Shi L , Li Y , Zhong H , Su Y
Published: November 2017

The TAM receptor tyrosine kinases (TAM RTK) are a subfamily of receptor tyrosine kinases, the role of which in autoimmune diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus has been well explored, while their functions in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) remain largely unknown. In this study, we investigated the role of soluble TAM receptor tyrosine kinases (sAxl/sMer/sTyro3) in patients with RA. A total of 306 RA patients, 100 osteoarthritis (OA) patients and 120 healthy controls (HCs) were enrolled into this study. The serum concentrations of sAxl/sMer/sTyro3 were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), then the associations between sAxl/sMer/sTyro3 levels and clinical features of RA patients were analysed. We also investigated whether sTyro3 could promote osteoclast differentiation in vitro in RA patients. The results showed that compared with healthy controls (HCs), sTyro3 levels in the serum of RA patients were elevated remarkably and sMer levels were decreased significantly, whereas there was no difference between HCs and RA patients on sAxl levels. The sTyro3 levels were correlated weakly but positively with white blood cells (WBC), immunoglobulin (Ig)M, rheumatoid factor (RF), swollen joint counts, tender joint counts, total sharp scores and joint erosion scores. Conversely, there were no significant correlations between sMer levels and the above indices. Moreover, RA patients with high disease activity also showed higher sTyro3 levels. In-vitro osteoclast differentiation assay showed further that tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP)+ osteoclasts were increased significantly in the presence of sTyro3. Collectively, our study indicated that serum sTyro3 levels were elevated in RA patients and correlated positively with disease activity and bone destruction, which may serve as an important participant in RA pathogenesis.
High‐priced drugs for multiple sclerosis and the medical economy in Japan
Authors: Shimizu Yuko
Published: November 2017

The high cost of medicines used to treat neurological diseases has received considerable attention in recent years. Disease‐modifying drugs for multiple sclerosis are expensive, and the cost‐effectiveness of these drugs has been discussed in the USA and the European Union. In Japan, the cost of multiple sclerosis therapies has increased gradually.
Peri‐implant parameters and C‐reactive protein levels among patients with different obesity levels
Authors: Vohra Fahim , Alkhudhairy Fahad , Al‐Kheraif Abdulaziz A. , Akram Zohaib , Javed Fawad
Published: November 2017

Background

It is hypothesized that peri‐implant conditions are worse with increasing severity of obesity, because systemic low‐grade inflammatory marker (C‐reactive protein [CRP]) is higher in severe form of obese individuals.

Purpose

The aim of the cross‐sectional retrospective study was to compare clinical and radiographic peri‐implant inflammatory parameters in patients with different levels of obesity and correlate these parameters with CRP levels.

Materials and Methods

Eighty‐four patients who participated in this study were divided into 4 groups: class I obese (group 1), class II obese (group 2), class III obese (group 3), and nonobese individuals (group 4) were included. Clinical (plaque index [PI], bleeding on probing [BOP], probing depth [PD]) and radiographic (marginal bone loss [MBL]) peri‐implant parameters were recorded. Serum CRP were quantified using enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Clinical peri‐implant parameters and serum CRP concentrations were analyzed using 1‐way analysis of variance. The Pearson correlation coefficient was used to analyze correlations of CRP levels with any of the clinical and radiographic parameters assessed.

Results

Peri‐implant PI, BOP, PD, and MBL were significantly higher in group‐1, ‐2, and ‐3 patients as compared to nonobese individuals (P < .05). Peri‐implant PI, BOP, PD, and MBL were significantly higher in obese patients of group‐2 and group‐3 as compared to obese patients in group‐1 (P < .01). Mean PI, BOP, PD, and MBL were comparable between group‐2 and group‐3 patients (P > .05). A significant positive correlations were found between CRP levels and BOP (P = .0148) and PD (P = .0425); and significant negative correlation was found for MBL in group 3, respectively (P = .0212).

Conclusion

Clinical and radiographic peri‐implant inflammatory parameters and serum CRP were significantly high in patients with severe form of obesity. Serum CRP levels correlated with peri‐implant bleeding in obese patients. These findings are preliminary and long‐term controlled trials are recommended to support these outcomes.
Clinical patterns of Compositae dermatitis in Danish monosensitized patients
Authors: Paulsen Evy , Andersen Klaus E.
Published: November 2017

Background

Compositae dermatitis was originally described as airborne contact dermatitis. More recent studies have reported a wider clinical spectrum, but often in polysensitized patients.

Objective

To evaluate the clinical features of patients sensitized to Compositae only.

Patients/Methods

Consecutive Compositae‐sensitive eczema patients, tested between 1990 and 2015, who, at the patch testing session diagnosing their Compositae allergy, were found to be sensitized only to the plant family, were included.

Results

Altogether, 529 of 13 139 patients tested (4.0%) were sensitized to Compositae, and 95 (18% of these) were monosensitized. The majority had hand eczema, and 39 (44%) had a vesicular volar pattern. Eighty‐one patients were classified into one of three groups of similar size: localized eczema, eczema of exposed skin, and localized eczema turning into widespread eczema.

Conclusions

The prevalence of Compositae sensitization is continuously high in consecutive eczema patients. Sensitization may occur at any age. Clinical features in monosensitized patients vary, but, with continuing exposure, the patients may develop more widespread dermatitis similar to classic Compositae dermatitis. Avoidance may clear the exogenous part, but not endogenous aetiological factors such as vesicular hand eczema or possible photosensitivity. Thorough clinical assessment and patient education are important in reducing the impact of Compositae contact allergy.
Integrating conservation biology into the development of automated vehicle technology to reduce animal–vehicle collisions
Authors: Niehaus Amanda C. , Wilson Robbie S.
Published: November 2017

Every year, hundreds of millions of animals die in collisions with cars. For some species, road strikes are a major cause of population declines, and reducing collisions is a conservation priority. We suggest that the emergence of automated vehicles will provide new opportunities for the use of computerized animal warning systems and variable speed zones in areas (and times) of high collision risk—but only if conservation biologists play a role in the development and implementation of these vehicles on the road.
Reliability, validity and minimal detectable change of computerized respiratory sounds in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Oliveira Ana , Lage Susan , Rodrigues João , Marques Alda
Published: November 2017

Introduction

Computerized respiratory sounds (CRS) are closely related to the movement of air within the tracheobronchial tree and are promising outcome measures in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). However, CRS measurement properties have been poorly tested.

Objective

The aim of this study was to assess the reliability, validity and the minimal detectable changes (MDC) of CRS in patients with stable COPD.

Methods

Fifty patients (36♂, 67.26 ± 9.31y, FEV1 49.52 ± 19.67%predicted) were enrolled. CRS were recorded simultaneously at seven anatomic locations (trachea; right and left anterior, lateral and posterior chest). The number of crackles, wheeze occupation rate, median frequency (F50) and maximum intensity (Imax) were processed using validated algorithms. Within‐day and between‐days reliability, criterion and construct validity, validity to predict exacerbations and MDC were established.

Results

CRS presented moderate‐to‐excellent within‐day reliability (ICC1,3 ≥ 0.51; P < .05) and moderate‐to‐good between‐days reliability (ICC1,2 ≥ 0.47; P < .05) for most locations. Negligible‐to‐moderate correlations with FEV1%predicted were found (–0.53 < rs < –0.28; P < .05), and the inspiratory number of crackles were the best discriminator between mild‐to‐moderate and severe‐to‐very severe airflow limitations (area under the curve >0.78). CRS correlated poorly with patient‐reported outcomes (rs < 0.48; P < .05) and did not predict exacerbations. Inspiratory number of crackles at posterior right chest, inspiratory F50 at trachea and anterior left chest and expiratory Imax at anterior right chest were simultaneously reliable and valid, and their MDC were 2.41, 55.27, 29.55 and 3.98, respectively.

Conclusion

CRS are reliable and valid. Their use, integrated with other clinical and patient‐reported measures, may fill the gap of assessing small airways and contribute toward a patient's comprehensive evaluation.
Interest in tanning beds and sunscreen in German‐speaking countries
Authors: Kirchberger Michael C. , Kirchberger Laura F. , Eigentler Thomas K. , Reinhard Raphael , Berking Carola , Schuler Gerold , Heinzerling Lucie , Heppt Markus V.
Published: November 2017

Background

The growing incidence of nearly all types of skin cancer can be attributed to increased exposure to natural or artificial ultraviolet (UV) radiation. However, there is a scarcity of statistical data on risk behavior or sunscreen use, which would be important for any prevention efforts.

Methods

Using the search engine Google®, we analyzed search patterns for the terms Solarium (tanning bed), Sonnencreme (sunscreen), and Sonnenschutz (sun protection) in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland between 2004 and 2016, and compared it to search patterns worldwide. For this purpose, “normalized search volumes” (NSVs) were calculated for the various search queries. The corresponding polynomial functions were then compared with each other over the course of time.

Results

Since 2001, there has been a marked worldwide decrease in the search queries for tanning bed, whereas those for sunscreen have steadily increased. In German‐speaking countries, on the other hand, there have – for years – consistently been more search queries for tanning bed than for sunscreen. There is an annual periodicity of the queries, with the highest NSVs for tanning bed between March and May and those for sunscreen in the summer months around June. In Germany, the city‐states of Hamburg and Berlin have particularly high NSVs for tanning bed.

Conclusions

Compared to the rest of the world, German‐speaking countries show a strikingly unfavorable search pattern. There is still great need for education and prevention with respect to sunscreen use and avoidance of artificial UV exposure.
Global significance of seagrass fishery activity
Authors: Nordlund Lina M , Unsworth Richard K F , Gullström Martin , Cullen‐Unsworth Leanne C
Published: November 2017

Seagrass meadows support fisheries through provision of nursery areas and trophic subsidies to adjacent habitats. As shallow coastal habitats, they also provide key fishing grounds; however, the nature and extent of such exploitation are poorly understood. These productive meadows are being degraded globally at rapid rates. For degradation to cease, there needs to be better appreciation for the value of these habitats in supporting global fisheries. Here, we provide the first global scale study demonstrating the extent, importance and nature of fisheries exploitation of seagrass meadows. Due to a paucity of available data, the study used a global expert survey to demonstrate the widespread significance of seagrass‐based fishing activity. Our study finds that seagrass‐based fisheries are globally important and present virtually wherever seagrass exists, supporting subsistence, commercial and recreational activity. A wide range of fishing methods and gear is used reflecting the spatial distribution patterns of seagrass meadows, and their depth ranges from intertidal (accessible by foot) to relatively deep water (where commercial trawls can operate). Seagrass meadows are multispecies fishing grounds targeted by fishers for any fish or invertebrate species that can be eaten, sold or used as bait. In the coastal communities of developing countries, the importance of the nearshore seagrass fishery for livelihoods and well‐being is irrefutable. In developed countries, the seagrass fishery is often recreational and/or more target species specific. Regardless of location, this study is the first to highlight collectively the indiscriminate nature and global scale of seagrass fisheries and the diversity of exploitative methods employed to extract seagrass‐associated resources. Evidence presented emphasizes the need for targeted management to support continued viability of seagrass meadows as a global ecosystem service provider.
Detect, correct, retract: How to manage incorrect structural models
Authors: Wlodawer Alexander , Dauter Zbigniew , Porebski Przemyslaw J. , Minor Wladek , Stanfield Robyn , Jaskolski Mariusz , Pozharski Edwin , Weichenberger Christian X. , Rupp Bernhard
Published: November 2017

The massive technical and computational progress of biomolecular crystallography has generated some adverse side effects. Most crystal structure models, produced by crystallographers or well‐trained structural biologists, constitute useful sources of information, but occasional extreme outliers remind us that the process of structure determination is not fail‐safe. The occurrence of severe errors or gross misinterpretations raises fundamental questions: Why do such aberrations emerge in the first place? How did they evade the sophisticated validation procedures which often produce clear and dire warnings, and why were severe errors not noticed by the depositors themselves, their supervisors, referees and editors? Once detected, what can be done to either correct, improve or eliminate such models? How do incorrect models affect the underlying claims or biomedical hypotheses they were intended, but failed, to support? What is the long‐range effect of the propagation of such errors? And finally, what mechanisms can be envisioned to restore the validity of the scientific record and, if necessary, retract publications that are clearly invalidated by the lack of experimental evidence? We suggest that cognitive bias and flawed epistemology are likely at the root of the problem. By using examples from the published literature and from public repositories such as the Protein Data Bank, we provide case summaries to guide correction or improvement of structural models. When strong claims are unsustainable because of a deficient crystallographic model, removal of such a model and even retraction of the affected publication are necessary to restore the integrity of the scientific record.
Defect sensitivity of highly deformable polymeric materials with different intrinsic qualities at various strain rates
Authors: Brighenti R. , Carpinteri A. , Artoni F. , Domenichelli I.
Published: November 2017

Highly deformable materials, such as elastomers and gels, can withstand very large deformation without failure, and this response is usually insensitive to the presence of macroscopic defects. These polymer‐based materials, different from the traditional ones which are usually characterized by an enthalpic elasticity, show a mechanical response which is governed by the state of internal entropy of their molecular network. If fracture energy is large, the noticeable ability of soft materials to rearrange their network at the microscale, to display large deformation and to dissipate energy thanks to their viscoelasticity, allows the minimization of the local detrimental effect of existing flaws. In the present paper, the mechanical behavior of silicone‐based edge cracked plates with different crack sizes and severity of the intrinsic flaws embedded in the material is examined by taking into account the time‐dependent effects. Experimental and theoretical aspects are discussed to explain the defect tolerance of such materials. The detrimental effect of intrinsic voids is quantified, and the beneficial effect due to strain at low rates is analysed. The critical distance is related to the ultimate stretch value, the quality of the material, and the crack size.
Geophysical Assessment of Groundwater Potential: A Case Study from Mian Channu Area, Pakistan
Authors: Hasan Muhammad , Shang Yanjun , Akhter Gulraiz , Jin Weijun
Published: November 2017

An integrated study using geophysical method in combination with pumping tests and geochemical method was carried out to delineate groundwater potential zones in Mian Channu area of Pakistan. Vertical electrical soundings (VES) using Schlumberger configuration with maximum current electrode spacing (AB/2 = 200 m) were conducted at 50 stations and 10 pumping tests at borehole sites were performed in close proximity to 10 of the VES stations. The aim of this study is to establish a correlation between the hydraulic parameters obtained from geophysical method and pumping tests so that the aquifer potential can be estimated from the geoelectrical surface measurements where no pumping tests exist. The aquifer parameters, namely, transmissivity and hydraulic conductivity were estimated from Dar Zarrouyk parameters by interpreting the layer parameters such as true resistivities and thicknesses. Geoelectrical succession of five‐layer strata (i.e., topsoil, clay, clay sand, sand, and sand gravel) with sand as a dominant lithology was found in the study area. Physicochemical parameters interpreted by World Health Organization and Food and Agriculture Organization were well correlated with the aquifer parameters obtained by geoelectrical method and pumping tests. The aquifer potential zones identified by modeled resistivity, Dar Zarrouk parameters, pumped aquifer parameters, and physicochemical parameters reveal that sand and gravel sand with high values of transmissivity and hydraulic conductivity are highly promising water bearing layers in northwest of the study area. Strong correlation between estimated and pumped aquifer parameters suggest that, in case of sparse well data, geophysical technique is useful to estimate the hydraulic potential of the aquifer with varying lithology.
Influence of medical insurance schemes and charity assistance projects on regular prophylaxis treatment of the boys with severe haemophilia A in China
Authors: Li Z. , Wu J. , Zhao Y. , Liu R. , Li K. , Zhou Y. , Wu R. , Yang R. , Zhang X. , Lian S. , Hu Q. , Li X. , Gu J. , Zhou R. , Sun J. , Li C. , Xu W. , Poon M.‐C. , Xiao J.
Published: November 2017

Objective

To explore the influence of medical insurance policy and charity assistance projects on the uptake and discontinuation of regular prophylaxis treatment in Chinese severe haemophilia A children.

Methodology

This retrospective study was conducted on children with severe haemophilia A, who received FVIII prophylaxis treatment at 12 haemophilia centres in China from 1 November 2007 to 31 May 2013.

Results

The average duration of prophylaxis treatment received by haemophilia children significantly increased from 16.7 weeks in 2008 to 32.8 weeks in 2012 (P < .001). The main reason for prophylaxis acceptance included dissatisfaction with previous “on‐demand” regimens, availability of improved local medical insurance policies and patient/family awareness of haemophilia. The main reason for subsequent discontinuation of prophylaxis was economic instability. The upper limit of insurance was up to RMB 150 000/y (~USD: 22 000/y) for 80.1% of the insured patients and would be sufficient to cover the continuous low‐dose prophylaxis regimen. However, for many patients the burden of out‐of‐pocket copayment cost represented a risk for poor adherence to regular prophylaxis. In about two third of the patients, the annual out‐of‐pocket copayment cost amounted to >50% of their average annual disposable income. Many patients therefore required assistance from the charity assistance projects, but nonadherence remained prevalent.

Conclusion

Medical insurance policy and charity assistance projects helped haemophilia children to accept and continue prophylaxis regimens. It was the proportion of the out‐of‐pocket copayment cost rather than the upper limit of insurance reimbursement that restricted long‐term regular low‐dose prophylaxis in China.
Moving the Migration Frontier: A Chinese Qiaoxiang Migration Model?
Authors: Li Minghuan , Wong Diana
Published: November 2017

The New Chinese Migration is frequently contrasted to the earlier 19thcentury mass migrations in terms of its origins (urban vs rural), migrant types (students and professionals vs coolies) and destinations (developed vs developing countries). A significant component of this new migration from thePRChowever, continues to originate from theqiaoxiang– the emigrant‐sending areas of the 19thcentury migrations. Based on an extensive review of the literature on the old and new Chinese migration, as well as several years of fieldwork in the major rural sending areas or qiaoxiang of China, we examine the continuities between the new qiaoxiang migration and the old, and propose a qiaoxiang migration model of the entrepreneurial nature of the migration enterprise to account for the sustained and global character of the mobility generated.
A novel approach to improve flexural strength of Al2O3‐20 wt% ZrO2 composites by oscillatory pressure sintering
Authors: Zhu Tianbin , Xie Zhipeng , Han Yao , Li Shuang , Li Yawei , An Di , Luo Xudong
Published: November 2017

In this communication, Al2O3‐20 wt% ZrO2 composites (ZTA) were prepared by a novel oscillatory pressure sintering (OPS) process. An almost perfectly full density of 99.94% and a relatively high flexural strength of 1145 MPa can be achieved for the OPS‐fabricated specimen, which were higher than those prepared by pressureless sintering (98.24% and 682 MPa) and hot pressing (99.53% and 990 MPa). The enhancement of flexural strength of the OPS‐fabricated specimen was correlated with its smaller flaw size and higher fracture surface energy. It was suggested that OPS was an effective approach to fabricate ZTA composites with ultrahigh density and high strength.
Carbon‐content‐dependent phase composition, microstructural evolution, and mechanical properties of SiBCN monoliths
Authors: Li Daxin , Yang Zhihua , Jia Dechang , Duan Xiaoming , Zhou Yu , Yu Dongli , Tian Yongjun , Wang Zihuan , Liu Yinglong
Published: November 2017

Three SiBCN monoliths: carbon‐lean, ‐moderate, and ‐rich monoliths with the same Si/B/N mole ratio have been prepared by mechanical alloying followed by reactive hot pressing. The role of carbon on phase composition, microstructural evolution, and mechanical properties were investigated. XRD and TEM investigations showed that the as‐sintered monoliths contain several components: Si metal, SiC, t‐BN, and BN(C), strongly correlated with the carbon content. TEM results also revealed that BN(C) enwraps SiC grain forming capsule‐like structure. Raman, NMR, and HRTEM studies suggested that the structural evolution within the BN(C) areas includes the graphitization of amorphous carbon and the lateral growth of BN(C), accompanied by an increase in the defect concentration. The defects form within BN (0002) basal planes resulting from the disordered carbon imbedded, which in turn determines the morphological evolution of BN(C). The ill‐developed microstructures for carbon‐lean monoliths and the excessive carbon in carbon‐rich ones both deteriorate their mechanical properties and densities.
Origin of dielectric loss in Ba(Co1/3Nb2/3)O3 microwave ceramics
Authors: Sayyadi‐Shahraki Ahmad , Taheri‐Nassaj Ehsan , Sharifi Hassan , Gonzales Justin , Kolodiazhnyi Taras , Newman Nathan
Published: November 2017

The microwave dielectric loss of stoichiometric and non‐stoichiometric Ba(Co1/3Nb2/3)O3 ceramics have been measured from 2 to 300 K in magnetic fields ranging from 0 to 5 T using a dielectric resonator (DR) technique. The microwave absorption from spin excitations of unpaired d‐electrons in exchange coupled Co2+ ions dominate the loss of the Ba(Co1/3Nb2/3)O3 ceramics at cryogenic temperatures. Two peaks in the loss tangent (tan δ) vs temperature relation from a distinctly different origin occur at 25‐30 K and 90 K, which increase in magnitude with increasing Co content in the bulk dielectric samples. Evidence that these peaks result from polaron conduction from hopping between Co2+ and Co3+ ions includes (i) the peak's observed temperature range; (ii) the decrease in peak intensity of approximately a factor of two in a large applied magnetic fields (5 T); and (iii) a strong correlation between the peak's magnitude and both the fraction of the minority Co3+ in the dominant Co2+ matrix and D.C. conductivity at elevated temperatures. A magnetic‐field independent high temperature peak with a maximum at 250 K dominates the room temperature microwave loss whose magnitude correlates with those of the low temperature peaks. This suggests that the defects responsible for carrier conduction play an important role in establishing the loss tangent at room temperature.
Effectiveness of an intensive intervention to improve lifestyles in people with intermediate cardiovascular risk (DATE study): Study protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Sanchez‐Aguadero Natalia , Mora‐Simon Sara , Recio‐Rodriguez Jose I , Alonso‐Dominguez Rosario , Gonzalez‐Sanchez Jesus , Martin‐Martin Cristina , Gomez‐Marcos Manuel A , Rodriguez‐Sanchez Emiliano , Garcia‐Ortiz Luis
Published: November 2017

Aim

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of an intensive intervention led by primary care nurses for lifestyle modification among people with intermediate cardiovascular risk.

Background

Cardiovascular diseases may be prevented by adopting healthy lifestyles. Interventions focused on populations at risk are more efficient than those aimed at the general population. More than 50 per cent of cardiovascular events occur in people with intermediate cardiovascular risk, but only a few studies have targeted this population.

Design

A randomized controlled trial approved in January 2017.

Methods

We will recruit 208 participants aged 35–74 years who have intermediate cardiovascular risk. They will be selected by consecutive sampling and will be randomized into a control group or intervention group. Individual standardized brief counselling on healthy lifestyles will be provided to both groups. Additionally, individuals from the intervention group will receive four weekly group sessions focusing on cardiovascular risk, healthy diet, moderation in alcohol consumption, daily physical activity, stress management and smoking cessation and two motivational follow‐up calls. The primary outcome will be the lifestyle modification measured by total steps recorded by a pedometer, total score on the Mediterranean Diet Adherence Screener and percentage of current smokers.

Discussion

This study will allow us to investigate whether an intensive intervention based on a multifactorial group approach is more effective in lifestyle modification than individual standardized brief counseling among adults with intermediate cardiovascular risk. Our results could lead to the establishment of new strategies for cardiovascular risk management.
Subjective cognitive complaints, psychosocial factors and nursing work function in nurses providing direct patient care
Authors: Barbe Tammy , Kimble Laura P. , Rubenstein Cynthia
Published: November 2017

Aims

The aim of this study was to examine relationships among subjective cognitive complaints, psychosocial factors and nursing work function in nurses providing direct patient care.

Background

Cognitive functioning is a critical component for nurses in the assurance of error prevention, identification and correction when caring for patients. Negative changes in nurses’ cognitive and psychosocial functioning can adversely affect nursing care and patient outcomes.

Design

A descriptive correlational design with stratified random sampling.

Method

The sample included 96 nurses from the major geographic regions of the United States. Over 9 months in 2016–2017, data were collected using a web‐based survey. Stepwise multiple linear regression analyses were used to examine relationships among subjective cognitive complaints, psychosocial factors and nursing work function.

Results

Overall, participants reported minimal work function impairment and low levels of subjective cognitive complaints, depression and stress. In multivariate analyses, depression was not associated with nurses’ work function. However, perceived stress and subjective concerns about cognitive function were associated with greater impairment of work function.

Conclusion

Nurses experiencing subjective cognitive complaints should be encouraged to address personal and environmental factors that are associated with their cognitive status. Additionally, stress reduction in nurses should be a high priority as a potential intervention to promote optimal functioning of nurses providing direct patient care. Healthcare institutions should integrate individual and institutional strategies to reduce factors contributing to workplace stress.