bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of nurse‐led lower extremity strength training on knee function recovery in patients who underwent total knee replacement
Authors: Lin Yu‐Hua , Lee Su‐Ying , Su Wei‐Ren , Kao Chia‐Chan , Tai Ta‐Wei , Chen Tai‐Been
Published: March 2018

Aims and objectives

To examine the effects of lower extremity muscle strength training on knee function recovery and quality of life in patients who underwent total knee replacement.

Background

Patients with knee osteoarthritis after surgery experience decreased knee function that impacts their quality of life. However, patients typically lack a long‐term, home‐based and continuous leg exercise training method and rarely have studies explored the effects of exercise training on knee function recovery and quality of life.

Design

A experimental and longitudinal study design.

Methods

The simple randomised sampling (based on patients’ admission priority order) was used to collect participant data. Outcome measurements included the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score. Participants were randomised to receive and starting lower extremity muscle strength training before surgery (training group, n = 100) or to receive usual care (nontraining group, n = 100). Data were collected and followed up with the patients before surgery (T1) and at 2 weeks (T2), 1 month (T3), 2 months (T4) and 3 months (T5) after discharge.

Results

The Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score subscale scores showed that both groups of patients experienced knee function and quality of life decreases 2 weeks after total knee replacement, but all subscale scores gradually increased from the first month to the third month after total knee replacement. Both groups and times were significantly different, but the training group's knee function and quality of life recovered earlier and better than the nontraining group does.

Conclusions

This study confirmed that lower extremity muscle strength training helps to improve quality of life and knee function in patients who undergo total knee replacement. Healthcare staff should include this training in presurgical nursing care and in patients’ discharge plans as a continuous, daily rehabilitation activity at home.

Relevance to clinical practice

When patients are diagnosed with knee osteoarthritis and undergo surgery, a presurgical exercise education and discussion of knee function rehabilitation should be part of standard care.
Enhanced self‐monitoring blood glucose in non‐insulin‐requiring Type 2 diabetes: A qualitative study in primary care
Authors: Brackney Dana Elisabeth
Published: March 2018

Aims and objectives

To contribute to both theoretical and practical understanding of the role of self‐monitoring blood glucose for self‐management by describing the experience of people with non‐insulin‐requiring Type 2 diabetes in an enhanced structured self‐monitoring blood glucose intervention.

Background

The complex context of self‐monitoring blood glucose in Type 2 diabetes requires a deeper understanding of the clients’ illness experience with structured self‐monitoring of blood glucose. Clients’ numeracy skills contribute to their response to blood glucose readings. Nurses’ use of motivational interviewing to increase clients’ regulatory self‐efficacy is important to the theoretical perspective of the study.

Design

A qualitative descriptive study.

Methods

A purposive sample of eleven adults recently (<2 years) diagnosed with non‐insulin‐requiring Type 2 diabetes who had experienced a structured self‐monitoring blood glucose intervention participated in this study. Audio recordings of semi‐structured interviews and photographs of logbooks were analysed for themes using constant comparison and member checking.

Results

The illness experience states of Type 2 diabetes include ‘Diagnosis,’ ‘Behavior change,’ and ‘Routine checking.’ People check blood glucose to confirm their Type 2 diabetes diagnosis, to console their diabetes‐related fears, to create personal explanations of health behaviour's impact on blood glucose, to activate behaviour change and to congratulate their diabetes self‐management efforts.

Conclusions

These findings support the Transtheoretical model's stages of change and change processes. Blood glucose checking strengthens the relationships between theoretical concepts found in Diabetes Self‐management Education‐Support including the following: engagement, information sharing and behavioural support.

Relevance to clinical practice

Tailoring diabetes care specifically to clients’ stage of their illness experience with use of self‐monitoring blood glucose contributes to engagement in self‐management. Motivational interviewing and collaborative decision‐making using blood glucose checking increase regulatory self‐efficacy for people living with non‐insulin‐requiring Type 2 diabetes.
Intentional rounding in acute adult healthcare settings: A systematic mixed‐method review
Authors: Christiansen Angela , Coventry Linda , Graham Renée , Jacob Elisabeth , Twigg Di , Whitehead Lisa
Published: March 2018

Aims and objectives

To determine the impact of intentional rounding on patient and nursing outcomes and identify the barriers and facilitators surrounding implementation.

Background

Intentional rounding is an organised approach whereby health professionals’ regularly check on patients to ensure their fundamental care needs are met. Despite wide scale adoption of intentional rounding, there is limited evidence to inform practice.

Methods

This systematic mixed‐method review was conducted using the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology. Databases CINAHL, MEDLINE, EMBASE, COCHRANE, SCOPUS and WEB of SCIENCE were searched to identify research studies published in English between January 2006–January 2017 that reported on intentional rounding and patient and nursing staff outcomes. Studies were assessed for methodological quality. The findings were synthesised into themes using a narrative approach.

Results

Twenty‐one studies were included in the review. Six studies reported a reduction in the number of falls, and a further five studies reported a reduction in call bell use following the introduction of intentional rounding. Nurses’ satisfaction and attitudes towards intentional rounding were reported in seven studies with equivocal results. The quality of the studies was weak making comparisons difficult.

Conclusions

While results suggest positive outcomes for falls and call bell use, conclusions on the available data are overshadowed by the quality of the studies. Well‐designed studies are required to advance evidence in this field.

Relevance to clinical practice

The evidence on intentional rounding is mixed and suggests that the introduction of intentional rounding should be accompanied by a protocol for robust evaluation to measure the impact of this process change. This should be accompanied by standardised reporting measures to enable comparisons and contribute to the quality of available evidence on intentional rounding.
Patients’ experiences and care needs during the diagnostic phase of an integrated brain cancer pathway: A case study
Authors: Vedelø Tina Wang , Sørensen Jens Christian Hedemann , Delmar Charlotte
Published: March 2018

Aims and objectives

To identify and describe patients’ experiences and care needs throughout the diagnostic phase of an integrated brain cancer pathway.

Background

A malignant brain tumour is a devastating diagnosis, which may cause psychical symptoms and cognitive deficits. Studies have shown that the shock of the diagnosis, combined with the multiple symptoms, affects patients’ ability to understand information and express needs of care and support. Unmet needs have been reported within this group of patients; however, the experiences and care needs of patients going through the diagnostic phase of a standardised integrated brain cancer pathway have not previously been explored.

Design

A case study design was used to provide detailed information of the complex needs of patients being diagnosed with a malignant brain tumour.

Methods

Research interviews and direct participant observation of four patients during hospital admission, brain surgery and discharge were conducted in a Danish university hospital. Systematic text condensation was used to analyse the data material.

Results

Four major themes were identified: information needs, balancing hope and reality while trying to perceive the unknown reality of brain cancer, not knowing what to expect and participants’ perceptions of the relationship with the healthcare providers. The analysis revealed that participants were in risk of having unmet information needs and that contextual factors seemed to cause fragmented care that led to feelings of uncertainty and loss of control.

Conclusions

Brain tumour patients have complex care needs and experience a particular state of vulnerability during the diagnostic phase. Through personal relationships based on trust with skilled healthcare providers, participants experienced an existential recognition and alleviation of emotional distress.

Relevance to clinical practice

Patients receiving a brain tumour diagnosis experience unmet care needs in several areas during their hospital stay. There is a need for interventions from healthcare providers.
BUSINESS ANGELS RESEARCH IN ENTREPRENEURIAL FINANCE: A LITERATURE REVIEW AND A RESEARCH AGENDA
Authors: Tenca Francesca , Croce Annalisa , Ughetto Elisa
Published: March 2018

Since the seminal works of Wetzel, research on business angels (BAs) has emerged as a new and promising research field. This review analyses the current knowledge on BAs, identifying the main contents and outcomes. We also provide a bibliometric analysis to illustrate the evolution of the research field, the level of dispersion of the scientific community, the main outlets for publication and the different methodological approaches adopted. Through the analysis of backward and forward citations, we depict the current knowledge base on which BA research is grounded and whether it has any impact on other research fields.
Assessment of epicardial fat and carotid intima media thickness in gestational hypertension
Authors: Altin Cihan , Yilmaz Mustafa , Ozsoy Hasmet M. , Gezmis Esin , Balci Serdar , Tekindal Mustafa A. , Sade Leyla E. , Muderrisoglu Haldun
Published: March 2018

Aim

Gestational hypertension (GHT) is a common disorder of pregnancy characterized by new onset hypertension without the presence of detectable proteinuria after 20 weeks of gestation. Epicardial fat thickness (EFT) and carotid intima media thickness (CIMT) are suggested as new predictors of subclinical atherosclerosis. Although the relationship between these parameters and essential hypertension has been demonstrated, this association in patients with GHT is still unknown. We aimed to investigate CIMT and EFT in patients with GHT.

Methods

A total of 90 patients (44 GHT and 46 controls) were enrolled. Patients with diabetes mellitus, chronic hypertension and cardiovascular disease (CVD) were excluded. In the third trimester, the mean CIMT at the far wall of both left and right common carotid arteries was measured on B‐mode duplex ultrasound. EFT was measured on the free wall of the right ventricle at the end systole in the parasternal long‐axis view by standard transthorasic 2D echocardiography.

Results

Unlike the mean CIMT (0.52 ± 0.13 mm vs 0.47 ± 0.11 mm; P = 0.078), the mean EFT was significantly higher in the GHT group compared to the controls (5.31 ± 1.68 mm vs 4.17 ± 1.16 mm; P = 0.002). In multivariate logistic regression analysis, among the most pertinent clinical variables, only EFT is an independent determinant of GHT (OR: 2.903; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.454–5.796; P = 0.003). In receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis, EFT >5.5 mm had 82.6% specificity and 52.3% sensitivity in predicting a diagnosis of GHT (ROC area under curve: 0.689, 95% CI: 0.577–0.802, P = 0.002).

Conclusion

Maternal EFT may be higher in pregnant women with GHT in comparison with those of controls.
Effect of pomegranate extract on vagina, skeleton, metabolic and endocrine profiles in an ovariectomized rat model
Authors: Kaban Isik , Kaban Alpaslan , Tunca Aysun F. , Aka Nurettin , Kavak Hacer , Akar Fugen
Published: March 2018

Aim

Many women need estrogen therapy because of menopausal complaints. It is suggested that pomegranate plant has estrogenic effect. Aim of the study was to examine the effects of pomegranate seed extract on menopausal changes.

Methods

This study was conducted in an experimental environment with 23 Wistar Albino genus female rats. Sixteen rats were divided into two groups after ovariectomy. One group (SG) was fed with standard food and the pomegranate extract was added to drinking water of the other group (PG). Seven rats were identified as the sham group for the detection of basal values. At the end of 90 days, follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), estradiol, total cholesterol, high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL)‐cholesterol, low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL)‐cholesterol, triglyceride, tibial bone cortex thickness and vaginal epithelium thickness of the groups were compared.

Results

FSH, total‐cholesterol and HDL‐cholesterol levels were similar among the three groups (P > 0.05), while others were different (P < 0.05). In binary comparisons (PG vs SG), estradiol level (average ± standard deviation [SD]: 252 ± 43 vs 154 ± 26 pg/mL), tibial bone cortex thickness (58 ± 7 vs 40 ± 2 μm) and vaginal epithelium thickness (21 ± 7 vs 10 ± 4 μm) were significantly higher in PG. In PG, triglyceride levels (103 ± 26 vs 87 ± 41 mg/dL) were higher and LDL‐cholesterol levels were lower (20 ± 8 vs 27 ± 8 mg/dL), but these differences were not significant.

Conclusion

In rats fed with pomegranate extract, estradiol levels increased and tibial bone cortex thickness and vaginal epithelium thickness also increased. Pomegranate itself or its formulation extracts may be a support or an alternative to the main treatment modalities in the preservation of bone density and the treatment of vaginal epithelial atrophy.
Personality and expatriate adjustment: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Harari Michael B. , Reaves Angela C. , Beane David A. , Laginess Andrew J. , Viswesvaran Chockalingam
Published: March 2018

We used meta‐analysis to advance our understanding of personality traits as antecedents of expatriate adjustment to international assignments and to test expatriate adjustment as a mediator linking the Five‐Factor Model (FFM) of personality to job performance and turnover intentions (k = 43; N = 7,007). Personality accounted for 20% of the variance in expatriate adjustment. Relative weight analyses indicated that extraversion generally accounted for the greatest proportion of predicted variance, although emotional stability and openness were important predictors as well. This pattern of findings was largely, but not completely, consistent across adjustment dimensions (i.e., general, interactional, work). Consistent with our expectations, meta‐analytic path analysis indicated that adjustment mediated the relationships between the FFM and both expatriate job performance and turnover intentions. Implications for theory and practice are discussed.

Practitioner points

Personality traits consistent with the Five‐Factor Model accounted for 20% of the variance in expatriate adjustment.

Personality traits, particularly extraversion, emotional stability, and openness, can be used for identifying employees who are well suited for international assignments.

Career planning in multinational enterprises can make use of personality scores to determine who may be a good candidate for the development for international assignments.

Social support interventions (e.g., mentoring) should be provided when on assignment, particularly for introverted expatriates, to facilitate adjustment.
Shyness and sociability among extremely low birth weight survivors in the third and fourth decades of life: Associations with relationship status
Authors: Xu Richard , Poole Kristie L. , Van Lieshout Ryan J. , Saigal Saroj , Schmidt Louis A.
Published: March 2018

Objective

We examined differences between the oldest known longitudinally followed cohort of extremely low birth weight survivors (ELBW; < 1,000 grams) and normal birth weight (NBW; > 2,500 grams) control participants on shyness and sociability, as well as conflicted shyness in adulthood across nearly a decade from their 20s to 30s.

Method

100 ELBW survivors and 88 NBW control participants self‐reported on shyness and sociability using the Cheek and Buss (1981; Cheek, 1983) shyness and sociability scale. Participants also self‐reported on their relationship status. A composite measure of conflicted shyness was also computed (i.e., the product of shyness and sociability).

Results

We found that, in their 30s, ELBW survivors reported higher shyness, but similar levels of sociability and conflicted shyness compared to controls. However, the ELBW group exhibited a greater decrease in conflicted shyness than NBW controls from their 20s to their 30s. Greater decreases in conflicted shyness in both groups were associated with being male, as well as with changes in relationship status such as finding a partner or getting married.

Conclusions

Relatively higher shyness among ELBW survivors in adulthood suggests that stressful pre‐ and early postnatal environments may have lasting effects on personality development. However, later social influences such as relationship status may attenuate some types of shyness in adulthood.
Triarchic psychopathy and deficits in facial affect recognition
Authors: Mowle Elyse N. , Edens John F. , Ruchensky Jared R. , Penson Brittany N.
Published: March 2018

Objective

Impaired socialization due to amygdala dysfunction has been proposed as a factor underlying psychopathy. Supporting this hypothesis, some research indicates that psychopathy is associated with deficits in facial affect recognition, but other studies have failed to find such a relationship. This study investigated whether healthy young adults elevated in psychopathic traits displayed deficits in identifying facial affective displays overall as well as deficits specific to fear recognition.

Method

Facial affect recognition was measured in a sample of 110 undergraduate men (n = 36) and women (n = 74). Participants completed the Triarchic Psychopathy Measure, and participants' eye gaze was measured using ASL Eye Trac 6. The facial affect recognition task was created using the NimStim facial expression stimuli.

Results

Individuals elevated in psychopathic traits did not display deficits in recognition of emotional faces overall or for fearful faces compared to individuals lower in psychopathic traits. However, meanness was negatively correlated with fear identification.

Conclusions

We conclude that deficient emotion processing in psychopathic individuals may be specific to ambiguous affective expressions. We discuss implications for the study of psychopathy and emotion processing.
Novelty seeking is linked to openness and extraversion, and can lead to greater creative performance
Authors: Gocłowska Małgorzata A. , Ritter Simone M. , Elliot Andrew J. , Baas Matthijs
Published: March 2018

Objective

Novelty seeking (the tendency to explore things novel and unfamiliar) has been extensively researched in the clinical and health domains, but its effects on creative performance are largely unknown. We examined whether creativity‐related personality traits (openness to experience and extraversion) are associated with novelty seeking, and whether novelty seeking is linked to, and facilitates, creativity.

Method

In Study 1a (N = 230; Mage = 20; 64% females) and Study 1b (N = 421; Mage = 19; 65% females), we measured extraversion, openness to experience, novelty seeking, and divergent thinking. To provide causal evidence for the relation between novelty seeking and creativity, in Study 2 (N = 147; Mage = 27; 75% females), we manipulated people's motivation to seek novelty and then measured subsequent divergent thinking.

Results

In Studies 1a and 1b, we demonstrated that trait novelty seeking is associated with openness and extraversion, on the one hand, and divergent thinking on the other. In Study 2, the novelty seeking manipulation led to greater divergent thinking.

Conclusions

We conclude that novelty seeking is linked to openness to experience and extraversion, and that it can lead to greater divergent thinking.
Community water fluoridation online: an analysis of the digital media ecosystem
Authors: Helmi Mohammad , Spinella Mary Kate , Seymour Brittany
Published: March 2018

Objectives

Research demonstrates the safety and efficacy of community water fluoridation (CWF). Yet, the digitization of communication has triggered the spread of inaccurate information online. The purpose of this study was to analyze patterns of CWF information dissemination by a network of sources on the web.

Methods

We used Media Cloud, a searchable big data platform of over 550 million stories from 50 thousand sources, along with tools to analyze that archive. We generated a network of fluoridation publishers using Media Cloud's keyword identification from August 1, 2015 to July 31, 2016. We defined the media type and sentiment toward CWF for each source and generated a network map of the most influential sources during our study period based on hyperlinking activity.

Results

Media Cloud detected a total of 980 stories from 325 different sources related to water fluoridation. We identified nine different media types participating in the dissemination of information: academic, government, scientific group, natural medicine, blogs, mainstream media, advocacy groups, user‐generated (e.g., YouTube), and “other.” We detected five sub‐networks within the overall fluoridation network map, each with its own characteristics. Twenty‐one percent of sources were pro‐fluoridation, receiving 57 percent of all inlinks, 22 percent of sources were anti‐fluoridation, and the rest were neutral (54 percent).

Conclusions

The dominant neutral sentiment of the network may signify that anti‐ and pro‐sides of the debate are viewed as balanced, not just in number but also in quality of information. Despite high inlinks to pro‐sources, anti‐fluoridation sentiment maintains influence online.
Antimicrobial activity of preparations after combined cultivation of lactic acid bacteria and yeast strains
Authors: Balabekyan Ts. R. , Karapetyan K. J. , Khachatryan T. V. , Khachatryan G. E. , Tatikyan S. Sh.
Published: March 2018

Use of antimicrobials in both human and animal populations over the past several decades has led to the emergence of multidrug‐resistant bacteria populations that are resistant to many commercially available drugs. For example, acquired resistance to first‐line antimicrobial agents increasingly complicates the management of extra‐intestinal infections due to Escherichia coli, which are a major source of illness and death. The continued development of new classes of natural antimicrobial agents, possessing antibacterial activity, has become of increasing importance for medicine and veterinary. So, selection of lactic acid bacteria and yeast strains for their combined cultivation with the aim of increasing of the activity is topical. It was shown that during combined cultivation of the lactic acid bacteria with probiotic properties and yeast strains, antimicrobial activity depends on the genus and species to which the strain of lactic acid bacteria and yeast belongs. They inhibited the growth of multidrug‐resistant bacteria with better efficiency. Increasing of the antimicrobial activity can be explained by the synergetic effect of products of cultures metabolism and by interaction between lactic acid bacteria cells with the cell wall of yeasts. Our data showed perspectives of combined cultivation of yeast and lactic acid bacteria for creation of a new class of antimicrobial preparations with high antibacterial activity and broad spectrum of action. Preparation can be recommended for treatment of animals.
Changes in the regulation and activity of glutathione redox system, and lipid peroxidation processes in short‐term aflatoxin B1 exposure in liver of laying hens
Authors: Erdélyi M. , Balogh K. , Pelyhe C. , Kövesi B. , Nakade M. , Zándoki E. , Mézes M. , Kovács B.
Published: March 2018

The purpose of this study was to investigate the short‐term (48 hr) effects of feeding aflatoxin contaminated diet (170.3 μg/kg AFB1) in 49‐week‐old laying hens. Liver samples were taken at 12‐hr intervals. Feed intake, body weight, absolute and relative liver weight were the same in groups. However, there was no feed intake during both dark periods (between 12nd to 24th and 36th to 48th hours of the experiment); therefore, aflatoxin intake was also negligible. Markers of initial phase of lipid peroxidation, conjugated dienes and trienes did not change as effect of aflatoxin, but terminal marker, malondialdehyde content was significantly higher at 12 hr as effect of aflatoxin. No significant difference was found in reduced glutathione concentration and glutathione peroxidase activity between the groups. Expression of glutathione peroxidase 4 gene (GPX4) was significantly reduced due to aflatoxin treatment at 12 and 24 hr, but induced later, while glutathione reductase gene (GSR) expression was significantly lower at 24 hr and glutathione synthetase gene (GSS) in aflatoxin‐treated group at 12 hr. The results suggest that aflatoxin induced oxygen‐free radical formation, but it did not reach critical level during this short period of time to cause activation of the expression of glutathione system.
Is Detecting a Target in a Compound Geometric Shape Influenced by Stimulus Density? A Developmental Study
Authors: Pouretemad Hamidreza , Mokhtari Setareh
Published: March 2018

We studied the pattern of performance in elementary school children and adults detecting a target in compound geometric shapes. The target was randomly presented at the global, local, or neither level of compound shapes with different elemental density. A significant difference between the pattern of performance in children and adults emerged when the geometric shape was constructed with fewer constituent parts. That is, children showed difficulties in recognizing the global level while adults could efficiently process it. We suggest that global processing continues to develop as children grow older. Also, integration ability could benefit from increasing familiarity with the geometric concepts.
Novel green algal isolates from the Egyptian hyper‐arid desert oases: a polyphasic approach with a description of Pharao desertorum gen. et sp. nov. (Chlorophyceae, Chlorophyta)
Authors: Saber Abdullah A. , Fučíková Karolina , McManus Hilary A. , Guella Graziano , Cantonati Marco
Published: March 2018

The biodiversity of terrestrial algae is still grossly understudied, and African deserts in particular are barely touched in this respect. Here, four coccoid green algae from oases in the Western Desert of Egypt were characterized using a combination of morphotaxonomic, ecological and 18S rDNA data, with additional carotenoid and lipid analyses for two of the strains. Three strains were identified as affiliated with known taxa: Mychonastes sp., Asterarcys sp. (first report of this genus from a desert soil), and Stichococcus cf. deasonii. The fourth strain is proposed to represent a new cryptic genus Pharao gen. nov., with the type species P. desertorum sp. nov. The new taxon is sister to the clade of uncharacterized North American desert strains of Radiococcaceae (Chlorophyceae, Chlorophyta). The pigment profile of P. desertorum gen. et sp. nov. revealed carotenoids and chlorophylls typical of green algae. Bioorganic analysis showed a complex lipidome based on phospho‐ (PC), galacto‐ (MGDG and DGDG), betaine‐ (DGTS), and sulfoquinovosyl‐ (SQDG) membrane lipids, besides significant amounts of storage neutral lipids such as diacyl‐ (DAG) and triacylglycerols (TAG). The presence of saturated alkyl chains within all the membrane lipid classes in P. desertorum and Asterarcys sp. appears to reflect the need to maintain membrane fluidity and viscosity. In summary, African deserts likely still harbor new taxa to be described, and lipidomic analyses of such taxa may provide clues about their ability to survive in the extremely harsh desert habitats.
Increased systemic levels of inflammatory mediators following one‐stage full‐mouth scaling and root planing
Authors: Morozumi T. , Yashima A. , Gomi K. , Ujiie Y. , Izumi Y. , Akizuki T. , Mizutani K. , Takamatsu H. , Minabe M. , Miyauchi S. , Yoshino T. , Tanaka M. , Tanaka Y. , Hokari T. , Yoshie H.
Published: March 2018

Background and Objective

Full‐mouth scaling and root planing (FM‐SRP) acts as a potent inflammatory stimulus immediately after treatment; however, systemic inflammation typically improves in the long term. The contribution of FM‐SRP to systemic biological and acute‐phase responses is largely unknown. The purpose of this prospective intervention study was to assess the systemic and local biological responses after FM‐SRP.

Material and Methods

Thirty‐one patients with generalized moderate‐to‐severe chronic periodontitis received 1‐stage FM‐SRP. Measurement of clinical parameters and body temperature as well as collection of subgingival plaque, peripheral blood and gingival crevicular fluid was performed before and after treatment 2 or 3 times. Quantification of periodontopathic bacteria in the sulcus and measurement of corresponding serum IgG titers were performed. Systemic and local inflammatory markers such as endotoxin, high‐sensitive C‐reactive protein (hs‐CRP) and 6 inflammatory cytokines were assessed using high‐sensitivity assays.

Results

Compared to baseline values, FM‐SRP resulted in a substantial improvement in clinical parameters (P < .05), lower bacterial counts (P < .01) and a significant decrease of IgG titers against Porphyromonas gingivalis (P < .001) 6 weeks after treatment. Comparing baseline parameters to those at 1 day post‐treatment, there was a statistically significant elevation in body temperature (P = .007). In addition, a 5‐fold increase in hs‐CRP (P < .001), a remarkable increase in interferon‐γ (P < .001) and a slight increase in interleukin (IL)‐12p70 (P = .001) were detected in serum samples. In the gingival crevicular fluid, marked increases in hs‐CRP (P < .001), IL‐5 (P = .001), IL‐6, IL‐12p70 and tumor necrosis factor‐α (P < .001 for the latter 3 markers) were noted 1 day after treatment. Endotoxin levels were below measurable limits for most time points.

Conclusion

FM‐SRP resulted in clinical and microbiological improvement 6 weeks post‐treatment, but produced a moderate systemic acute‐phase response including elevated inflammatory mediators 1 day post‐treatment.
Nicotine inhibits osteogenic differentiation of human periodontal ligament cells under cyclic tensile stress through canonical Wnt pathway and α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor
Authors: Yu W. , Hu B. , Shi X. , Cao Z. , Ren M. , He Z. , Lin J. , Deng H. , Hu R.
Published: March 2018

Background and Objectives

Nicotine, the main psychoactive component of tobacco, affects cell metabolism, proliferation, adhesion and, importantly, the osteogenic differentiation of fibroblasts. Approximately 15% of all orthodontic patients are adults among who one‐fifth are smokers. Hence, it is necessary to have insight into the effects of nicotine on the osteogenic differentiation of hPDLCs during orthodontic tooth movement. This study aimed to investigate the effects and mechanisms of nicotine on the osteogenic differentiation of human periodontal ligament cells (hPDLCs) under the application of cyclic tensile stress.

Material and Methods

hPDLCs were obtained from donor third molars. The hPDLCs were treated with nicotine and/or cyclic tensile stress that was applied with a cell stress plus unit. The effect of nicotine on cell viability was analyzed using the MTT assay. The osteogenic differentiation of hPDLCs was detected by alkaline phosphatase staining, Alizarin Red S staining, quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction and western blotting.

Results

In combination with cyclic tensile stress, nicotine prevented the tensile stress‐induced increase in alkaline phosphatase activity, formation of mineralization nodules and the upregulation of mRNA and protein expression of Runt‐related transcription factor 2, transcription factor Sp7 and collagen type I; however, canonical Wnt pathway was activated. Furthermore, the addition of Dickkopf‐related protein 1 and α‐bungarotoxin counteracted the negative effect of nicotine and rescued the osteogenic differentiation of hPDLCs, respectively.

Conclusion

These results indicate that nicotine prevents the increased osteogenic potential of hPDLCs induced by cyclic tensile stress by binding to an α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor and activating the canonical Wnt pathway.
Reticulocytosis in non‐anaemic cats and dogs
Authors: Fuchs J. , Moritz A. , Grußendorf E. , Lechner J. , Neuerer F. , Nickel R. , Rieker T. , Schwedes C. , DeNicola D. B. , Russell J. , Bauer N.
Published: March 2018

Objective

To evaluate the proportion of blood samples diagnosed with reticulocytosis without anaemia in cats and dogs and report the aetiology and mortality rate of affected animals.

Materials and Methods

Retrospective multicentre study including haematological examination of 3956 cats and 11,087 dogs admitted to seven German veterinary clinics (2012 to 2014). The proportion of blood samples with reticulocytosis without anaemia was calculated, and after exclusion of multiple measurements of the same animal, clinical data were evaluated. Animals with reticulocytosis without anaemia were classified as healthy or diseased, and diseased patients were assigned to 12 disease groups. Pretreatment (i.e. non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs, glucocorticoids, dipyrone) was recorded.

Results

The proportion of blood samples with reticulocytosis without anaemia was 3·1% (124/3956) in cats and 4·4% (492/11,087) in dogs. Overall, 1·8% (2/111) of cats and 1·5% (7/458) of dogs with reticulocytosis without anaemia were healthy. Blood loss/anaemia, cardiac/respiratory disorders, gastrointestinal disorders and inflammatory disorders as well as cancer were the most frequent underlying diseases. Pretreatment was noted in 39·5% (43/111) of cats and 42·4% (194/458) of dogs. The mortality rate was 37·8% (42/111) in cats and 29·7% (136/458) in dogs with reticulocytosis without anaemia; the median survival time in non‐survivors was 1 day (range: 0 to 376 days in cats, 0 to 444 days in dogs).

Clinical Significance

In both species, reticulocytosis without anaemia was observed in a low proportion of blood samples (dogs>cat). Though a bias towards sick animals is possible in our sample, reticulocytosis without anaemia was mainly seen in diseased animals and associated with a mortality rate of approximately one‐third of patients.
CT cholangiography in dogs with gallbladder mucocoele
Authors: Hayakawa S. , Sato K. , Sakai M. , Kutara K. , Asano K. , Watari T.
Published: March 2018

Objectives

To summarise CT cholangiography findings in dogs with gallbladder mucocoele.

Materials and Methods

Each of 10 dogs with gallbladder mucocoele underwent CT cholangiography using meglumine iotroxate before cholecystectomy. The following structures of the biliary system were evaluated: the right and left hepatic ducts, common hepatic duct, cystic duct, common bile duct and gallbladder.

Results

The hepatic duct, cystic duct, common bile duct and gallbladder were imaged by contrast‐enhanced CT cholangiography. The passage of the contrast medium through the bile duct into the duodenum was visible in nine dogs. The curved planar reformation images of two dogs showed they had filling defects in the bile duct system. In one dog with hyperbilirubinaemia due to chronic hepatitis, the bile duct system was not completely contrast‐enhanced. Surgical exploration revealed no evidence of common bile duct obstruction in any dog.

Clinical Significance

CT cholangiography delineates the structural characteristics of the biliary system and partially estimates its patency in dogs with gallbladder mucocoele. Therefore this procedure may be useful as a preoperative screen of the bile duct system in dogs with gallbladder mucocoele.
Clinical presentation and magnetic resonance imaging findings in 11 dogs with eosinophilic meningoencephalitis of unknown aetiology
Authors: Cardy T. J. A. , Cornelis I.
Published: March 2018

Objectives

To describe the clinical presentation, MRI findings and outcome in dogs with eosinophilic meningoencephalitis of unknown origin.

Materials and Methods

Dogs were included in this retrospective study if they had complete medical records, complete neurological examination, MR imaging, cerebellomedullary cerebrospinal fluid sample consistent with eosinophilic pleocytosis and negative infectious disease testing.

Results

Eleven dogs were included with a median age of 22·0 months (range 7·6 to 92·0 months). Nine breeds were represented. Neurological abnormalities included obtundation (n=10), menace response deficits (n=9), proprioceptive deficits (n=7), ataxia (n=7) and seizures (n=2). Neuroanatomical localisation was multi‐focal (n=4), central vestibular system (n=4), diffuse forebrain (n=2) or left trigeminal/facial nerves (n=1). Seven dogs had peripheral eosinophilia. Ten dogs had bilateral symmetrical lesions affecting the cortical grey matter, which was hyperintense on T2‐weighted and fluid‐attenuating inversion recovery images and iso‐ to hypointense on T1‐weighted images with associated meningeal contrast enhancement. MRI findings were consistent with diffuse meningitis and atrophy or necrosis of cortical grey matter. One dog had increased contrast uptake in the left trigeminal nerve. Ten dogs receiving corticosteroids survived to discharge, with seven also receiving cytarabine arabinoside. Median survival time was 762 days.

Clinical Significance

Eosinophilic meningoencephalitis of unknown origin affects younger larger‐breed dogs, with the majority having suspected diffuse cerebrocortical meningitis and cortical (polio)encephalitis, which can be identified on MRI. Response to immunosuppressive treatment is good in the medium to long term, although further studies are required in this area.
Managing Coopetition in Supplier Networks – A Paradox Perspective
Authors: Wilhelm Miriam , Sydow Jörg
Published: March 2018

Scholars in the field of supply chain management have started to embrace the idea of simultaneous cooperation and competition (“coopetition”) in supplier networks but have mainly looked at coopetition from a structural perspective. In this article, we complement the structural view with a paradox perspective to investigate the competitive tensions that evolve when buying firms are trying to engage both forces simultaneously in their relations with core suppliers. Our comparative case study of four major carmakers reveals different strategies buying firms use to manage coopetition in their supplier networks, the responses they trigger from their suppliers, and the resulting paradoxical tensions. Our inductive analysis reveals that irrespective of the managing approach chosen, the “coopetition capabilities” of the buying firm determines whether negative tension dynamics can be avoided. At the core of such coopetition capabilities are “evaluative capabilities” allowing the buyer to provide cost improvement suggestions to suppliers for the sake of joint value creation and to control the division of value appropriation through a deeper understanding of the supplier's cost structures. By highlighting the nature of coopetition capabilities as organizational capabilities, we also contribute to paradox research, going beyond its current focus on the individual cognitions of managers.
An improved metagenomic strategy reveals an unprecedentedly high level of intragenomic polymorphism of ribosomal DNA in three species of Camellia
Authors: Shao Yang , Zhang Min , Xu Ying , Zhu Yong‐Qing , Yonezawa Takahiro , Wang Yu‐Guo , Song Zhi‐Ping , Zhang Wen‐Ju
Published: March 2018

The ribosomal DNA (rDNA) repeats of more and more species have been found to be polymorphic in the genome, and the understanding of this polymorphism is conducive not only to eliminating potential chaos in the metagenomic analysis (MGA), but also to providing rich information on rDNA evolution. In this study, the MGA previously used for the study of environmental microbial diversity was improved and extended to detect the intragenomic polymorphism (IGP) of rDNA in three species of Camellia L. The 3′‐end region of 26S rDNA of three individuals was amplified using degenerate primer pairs. Three annealing temperatures were applied to obtain as many ribotypes as possible, and equimolar amplicons from the three species were then pooled and sequenced using the Illumina MiSeq platform. An incredibly high level of IGP of rDNA was found in all three species. Nearly all of the ribotypes detected from this study were rDNA pseudogenes, and most of them have existed for a long time in the genome, with some generated from several rapid expansions. Our procedure provided an effective technique for detection of IGP of rDNA, and the particular evolutionary information of rDNAs in Camellia was also exploited.
A systematic review of pediatric self‐report symptom measures: Congruence with the theory of unpleasant symptoms
Authors: von Sadovszky Victoria , Christensen Emily , Jennings Bonnie Mowinski , Miller Susi , Hosley Stephanie , Drought Liesl , Lenz Elizabeth R.
Published: March 2018

Purpose

Many children and adolescents experience unpleasant symptoms due to acute and chronic illnesses. Several symptom measures specific to children and adolescents are available to assess unpleasant symptoms. What is unclear is how well these measures assess all dimensions of the symptom experience. Using the Theory of Unpleasant Symptoms (TOUS) as a guide, the purpose of this systematic review of self‐report symptom measures was to examine the comprehensiveness of current symptom measures designed to assess children's and adolescents’ symptom experiences.

Conclusions

The TOUS did not guide the development of any of the measures studied; hence, exact parallels were not expected. Currently, no pediatric self‐report symptom measures were found that assessed all dimensions of the symptom experience. Four measures captured three dimensions: intensity, timing, and distress. Only two measures assessed quality.

Practice Implications

Practitioners need to be aware of the dimensions reflected in commonly used symptom measures. Augmentation of these measures is needed in order to assess the entire symptom experience in children and adolescents.
Was Blumer a cognitivist? Assessing an ethnomethodological critique
Authors: Hammersley Martyn
Published: March 2018

A major target of criticism for ethnomethodology has been cognitivism. In its broadest sense this term refers to any account of human behaviour that treats psychological features of agents – including beliefs, attitudes, and interpretations – as factors explaining their behaviour. While much criticism of cognitivism has been directed at neuroscientists and philosophical materialists, the range of targets has been wider than this, even including sociologists such as Herbert Blumer and symbolic interactionists. In this article I outline this criticism of Blumer and assess it. My conclusion is that, despite some misreading, his work does fall into the broad category of cognitivism. However, I question the grounds for the ethnomethodological critique.
Trends and risk factors of hepatitis A in Catalonia after the introduction of a hepatitis A+B vaccination programme
Authors: Godoy P. , Carmona G. , Manzanares S. , Jane M. , Borràs E. , Camps N. , Álvarez J. , Barrabeig I. , Sala M.‐R. , Rius C. , Minguell S. , Carol M. , Ferras J. , Domínguez A. ,   the Working Group for the Study of Hepatitis in Catalonia
Published: March 2018

At the end of 1998, universal hepatitis A+B vaccination of 12 year olds was introduced in Catalonia. The aim was to examine trends in hepatitis A during 2005‐2015 and assess risk factors by age group. We carried out an observational epidemiological study of the incidence and risk factors of hepatitis A reported to the surveillance system. Information on exposure was recorded for each case for the 2‐6 weeks before symptom onset. Spearman's coefficient was used to evaluate the trends of rates. The chi‐square test was used to compare categorical. We studied 2621 hepatitis A cases; the age mean was 26.6 years (SD=18.2), and >50% of cases were in the 20‐49 years age group. The incidence decreased from 3.28/100 000 in 2005 to 1.50/100 000 in 2015. The rate for women decreased over time (P = .008), but the reduction was not significant in men (P = .234). Men consistently had higher rates than women with the biggest difference being in the 20‐34 years age group (rate 8.8 vs 2.8). The greatest risk factor was travel to an endemic country (42.1%) in the 0‐19 years age group and male‐to‐male sexual contact (18.6%) in the 20‐49 years age group. The case fatality rate in adults aged >49 years was 0.4%. In conclusion, the vaccination programme of preadolescents resulted in a reduction in hepatitis A cases. However, a significant amount of cases still appear in immigrants and men who have sex with men. Hepatitis A in adults is an emerging health problem that will require new strategies.
Alterations in serum amino acid concentrations in dogs with protein‐losing enteropathy
Authors: Kathrani Aarti , Allenspach Karin , Fascetti Andrea J. , Larsen Jennifer A. , Hall Edward J.
Published: March 2018

Background

Certain amino acids are decreased in humans with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and supplementation with the same amino acids has shown beneficial effects in animal models of IBD. Currently, the amino acid status of dogs with protein‐losing enteropathy (PLE) is unknown.

Hypothesis/Objective

To determine if serum amino acid concentrations are abnormal in dogs with PLE and correlated with clinical and laboratory variables and outcome.

Animals

Thirty client‐owned dogs diagnosed with PLE and 12 apparently healthy dogs seen at Bristol Veterinary School.

Methods

Retrospective study using stored residual serum from fasted dogs with PLE, collected at the time of diagnostic investigation and from apparently healthy dogs. Serum was analyzed for 30 amino acids using an automated high‐performance liquid chromatography amino acid analyzer.

Results

Serum tryptophan concentrations were significantly decreased in dogs with PLE (median, 22 nmol/mL; range, 1–80 nmol/mL) compared with apparently healthy control dogs (median, 77.5 nmol/mL; range, 42–135 nmol/mL, P < .001). There were no significant differences in the remaining 29 serum amino acids between dogs with PLE and apparently healthy. Serum tryptophan concentrations were also significantly correlated with serum albumin concentrations in dogs with PLE (P = .001, R2 = 0.506).

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Decreased serum tryptophan concentration might play a role in the pathogenesis of canine PLE or be a consequence of the disease.
Computer tomographic imaging in 4 dogs with primary nasal canine transmissible venereal tumor and differing cellular phenotype
Authors: Ojeda Javier , Mieres Marcelo , Soto Francisco , Arnes Verónica , Paredes Enrique , Navarrete María
Published: March 2018

Primary nasal canine transmissible venereal tumor (CTVT) without genital affection is uncommon. The aim of this report was to describe the primary nasal CTVT findings and CT staging in 4 dogs with different cytological phenotypes. Three male dogs and 1 bitch were evaluated for their chronic histories of sneezing, snoring, mucopurulent nasal discharge and nasal deformation. Cytological examination of nasal secretions suggested CTVT, confirmed by histopathological examination and LINE‐1/c‐myc. Males had the plasmacytoid phenotype of CTVT, and the bitch had the lymphocytoid phenotype. CTVT were staged based on the CT findings using modified Adams staging system. The bitch was classified as stage 1, 2 males were classified as stage 3 and 1 male as stage 4. All dogs had a complete tumoral remission after chemotherapy. Plasmacytoid phenotype was identified in cases with most important damage of the nasal cavity. However, the cytological type did not affect the response to chemotherapy.