bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
TetraDENSITY: A database of population density estimates in terrestrial vertebrates
Authors: Santini Luca , Isaac Nick J. B. , Ficetola Gentile Francesco
Published: May 2018

Motivation

Population density is a key demographic parameter influencing many ecological processes, and macroecology has described both intra‐ and interspecific patterns of variation. Population density data are expensive to collect and contain many forms of noise and potential bias; these factors have impeded investigation of macroecological patterns, and many hypotheses remain largely unexplored. Population density also represents fundamental information for conservation, because it underlies population dynamics and, ultimately, extinction risk. Here we present TetraDENSITY, an extensive dataset with > 18,000 records of density estimates for terrestrial vertebrates, in order to facilitate new research on this topic.

Main types of variable contained

The dataset includes taxonomic information on species, population density estimate, year of data collection, season, coordinates of the locality, locality name, habitat, sampling method and sampling area.

Spatial location and grain

Global. Spatial accuracy varies across studies; conservatively, it can be considered at 1°, but for many data it is much finer.

Time period and grain

From 1926 to 2017. Temporal accuracy is yearly in most cases, but studies with higher temporal resolution (season, month) are also present.

Major taxa and level of measurement

Amphibians in terrestrial phase, reptiles, birds and mammals. Estimates derive from multiple methods, reflecting the study taxon, location and techniques available at the time of density estimation.
Paget's disease of jaw bones as primary manifestation: A case report of a proper diagnosis made by general dentist
Authors: Campolongo Martin G. , Cabras Marco , Bava Luca , Arduino Paolo G. , Carbone Mario
Published: May 2018

Objective

To present a case of early diagnosis mandibular Paget's disease of bone (PDB), recognised by a general dentist.

Background

PDB is responsible of rapid bone resorption and disorganised bone formation.

Materials and methods

The patient was a 72‐year‐old female patient complaining of dental malposition and blatant prognathism.

Conclusion

Clinicians should consider PDB in differential diagnosis for an elderly patient undergoing unexplained alteration in face profile and occlusion.
Cognitive‐Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia to Reduce Chronic Migraine: A Sequential Bayesian Analysis
Authors: Smitherman Todd A. , Kuka Alexander J. , Calhoun Anne H. , Walters A. Brooke Pellegrino , Davis‐Martin Rachel E. , Ambrose Carrie E. , Rains Jeanetta C. , Houle Timothy T.
Published: May 2018

Background

Insomnia is frequently comorbid with chronic migraine, and small trials suggest that cognitive‐behavioral treatment of insomnia (CBTi) may reduce migraine frequency. This study endeavored to provide a quantitative synthesis of existing CBTi trials for adults with chronic migraine using Bayesian statistical methods, given their utility in combining prior knowledge with sequentially gathered data.

Methods

Completer analyses of 2 randomized trials comparing CBTi to a sham control intervention (Calhoun and Ford, 2007; Smitherman et al, 2016) were used to quantify the effects of a brief course of treatment on headache frequency. Change in headache frequency from baseline to the primary endpoint (6‐8 weeks posttreatment) was regressed on group status using a Gaussian linear model with each study specified in the order of completion. To estimate the combined effect, posterior distributions from the Calhoun and Ford study were used as informative priors for conditioning on the Smitherman et al data.

Results

In a combined analysis of these prior studies, monthly headache frequency of the treatment group decreased by 6.2 days (95%CrI: −9.7 to −2.7) more than the control group, supporting an interpretation that there is a 97.5% chance that the treatment intervention is at least 2.7 days better than the control intervention. The analysis supports the hypothesis that at least for those who complete treatment, there is high probability that individuals who receive CBTi experience greater headache reduction than those who receive a control intervention equated for therapist time and out‐of‐session skills practice.

Conclusion

Cognitive‐behavioral interventions for comorbid insomnia hold promise for reducing headache frequency among those with chronic migraine. These findings add to a small but growing body of literature that migraineurs with comorbid conditions often respond well to behavioral interventions, and that targeting comorbidities may improve migraine itself.
Serum Wisteria floribunda agglutinin‐positive Mac‐2 binding protein level as a diagnostic marker of hepatitis B virus‐related hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Chuaypen Natthaya , Chittmittraprap Salyavit , Pinjaroen Nutcha , Sirichindakul Boonchoo , Poovorawan Yong , Tanaka Yasuhito , Tangkijvanich Pisit
Published: May 2018

Aim

Serum glycosylated Wisteria floribunda agglutinin‐positive Mac‐2 binding protein (WFA+‐M2BP) is a novel marker for staging liver fibrosis and predicting hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) occurrence. This study aimed at evaluating the performance of WFA+‐M2BP in the diagnosis of HCC in patients with chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection.

Methods

The WFA+‐M2BP levels were measured in stored samples collected at initial diagnosis of 150 patients with HBV‐related HCC and 150 age‐ and gender‐matched patients with non‐malignant chronic HBV infection.

Results

Patients with HCC had higher levels of WFA+‐M2BP than those without HCC (3.9 [1.5–20.6] vs. 1.6 [0.4–9.3] cut‐off index [COI], P < 0.001). In the HCC group, WFA+‐M2BP levels correlated with Child–Pugh classification but did not correlate with HBV markers, α‐fetoprotein (AFP), or Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer (BCLC) stage. The areas under the curve (AUROC) for differentiating HCC from non‐HCC were 0.92 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.89–0.95; P < 0.001) for WFA+‐M2BP, 0.90 (95% CI, 0.87–0.94; P < 0.001) for AFP, and 0.97 (95% CI, 0.95–0.98; P < 0.001) for the combination of both markers. At the optimal cut‐off (2.4 COI), WFA+‐M2BP had sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of 79.3%, 91.3%, and 85.3%, respectively. The WFA+‐M2BP marker was superior to AFP in differentiating early‐stage HCC (BCLC stages 0 and A) from cirrhosis with AUROC of 0.80 (95% CI, 0.68–0.91; P < 0.001) and 0.73 (95% CI, 0.60–0.86; P = 0.002), respectively. By univariate analysis, elevated WFA+‐M2BP (≥4.0 COI) was correlated with poor overall survival in patients with HCC.

Conclusions

Wisteria floribunda agglutinin‐positive M2BP showed a better diagnostic performance than AFP in detecting early‐stage HCC. Thus, WFA+‐M2BP level could represent a promising marker for early diagnosis of HCC in patients with chronic HBV infection.
External validation and improvement of LiFe score as a prediction tool in critically ill cirrhosis patients
Authors: Yao Shuangzhe , Jiang Xihui , Sun Chao , Zheng Zhongqing , Wang Bangmao , Wang Tao
Published: May 2018

Aim

The LiFe (liver, injury, failure, evaluation) score, calculated according to arterial lactate, total bilirubin, and international normalized ratio (INR), is a novel score for risk prediction in intensive care unit (ICU) patients with cirrhosis. The present study aimed to externally validate and optimize the LiFe score for predicting outcomes in critically ill cirrhosis patients.

Methods

The study used the single‐center database Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care‐III (MIMIC‐III) for analysis. A total of 536 critically ill cirrhosis patients from the MIMIC‐III database were analyzed. Routine clinical and laboratory variables were included to compare survivors with non‐survivors. The LiFe score was then regraded into three groups to calculate the optimal cut‐off values.

Results

In‐ICU mortality occurred in 169 (31.5%) of the patients. Survivor and non‐survivor cohorts were similar in age, gender, and etiology of cirrhosis. Multivariate analyses of in‐ICU mortality identified four independent variables: total bilirubin, creatinine, INR, and arterial lactate. An external validation of the LiFe score showed good accuracy for predicting in‐ICU mortality with an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.708. In addition, a significant positive correlation exists between LiFe score and acute‐on‐chronic liver failure grade (r = 0.393, P < 0.001). A log–rank test comparing the strata of simplified LiFe scores found that in‐ICU mortality rates were 16.8%, 27.7%, and 51.7%, respectively, among patients in the three simplified risk categories.

Conclusions

The LiFe score, based on laboratory tests, can be useful as a preliminary and convenient scoring tool in a broad cohort of critically ill cirrhosis patients. Simplified risk categories to stratify patients into three groups improves its feasibility and generalizability for clinical application.
Predictive validity of the IELTS in an English as a medium of instruction environment
Authors: Schoepp Kevin
Published: May 2018

As access to a university education has increased globally, there have also been increases in the number of universities that use English as a medium of instruction (EMI) and in the number of non‐English‐speaking students studying in English‐speaking countries. Correspondingly, the English language proficiency of students studying in EMI environments is becoming increasingly significant. Using a large sample of 953 undergraduate students at an EMI university in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), this paper examines the predictive validity of the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) as it pertains to the academic success of students as determined by grade point average and addresses implications and appropriateness of further language support. Results indicate that IELTS scores are a meaningful predictor of academic success, especially in the EMI environment that exists in the UAE. Lower than the IELTS guidelines, an IELTS 6.0 seems to be a key benchmark that predicts academic success. It may be that this more moderate English proficiency score is a better fit for non‐English‐speaking countries, but that further language support embedded into degree programmes is necessary except at the highest proficiency levels, and that a bilingual option should be considered at the lowest proficiency levels.
An explorative study on medicines reconciliation in the homeless with a mental illness†
Authors: Nikolić Nikola
Published: May 2018

Objectives

This study explored the accuracy of medicines-related information (MRI) held by healthcare service providers in a hostel for homeless men with a mental illness.

Methods

Fifteen residents’ records were screened for MRI on medical history, allergy status and treatment, using all available sources.

Key Findings

There was a significant difference in the number of prescribed psychotropics amongst different services. Twenty-three discrepancies (n = 90) were due to different doses, and 63 discrepancies were omissions. Only three of 14 allergy statuses were identical.

Conclusions

Pharmacists are the key drivers of medicines reconciliation. They can improve patients’ outcomes by ensuring safer prescribing through liaison.
Public views of different sources of health advice:pharmacists, social media and mobile health applications
Authors: Crilly Philip , Jair Sophia , Mahmood Zahra , Moin Khan Armineh , Munir Aneesah , Osei-Bediako Irene , Samir Mustafa , Kayyali Reem
Published: May 2018

Objectives

Investigating public perceptions of community pharmacists (CP) in public health and their use of social media (SM) and mobile health applications (MH apps) in that regard.

Methods

Two surveys were created. One sought public perceptions of SM and the other of MH apps for health advice. Both included a section on perceptions of the role of CPs in public health. A convenience sampling strategy, based on proximity, was used.The study population was the public (n = 8 500 000) living in Greater London. The general public were recruited face-to-face in public spaces. A minimum sample (95% confidence interval/5% margin of error) of 385 was needed. Ethical approval was obtained from the university ethics committee. Responses were analysed in SPSS.

Key findings

About 820/1800 (45.6%) completed one/both surveys. Respondents seek health advice primarily from GPs, followed by digital mediums and then CPs. Under 35s use digital mediums more frequently (P = 0.039). Those who had used SM (41.7%) or MH apps (61.8%) for health information did not confirm its accuracy with a healthcare professional (HCP). Of those that did (MH apps = 39.2%; SM = 58.3%), the HCP disagreed with the information on MH apps and SM on 19.6% and 36.7% of occasions, respectively. Nevertheless, 64.5% stated that if a SM page was maintained by an HCP they would use it.

Conclusions

The public are using digital mediums for health advice instead of speaking to an HCP. If CPs want to have an impact on public health they must start imbedding digital mediums into their services.
Weight management counselling among community pharmacists: a scoping review
Authors: Rosenthal Meagen , Ward Lori M , Teng Jason , Haines Seena
Published: May 2018

Objectives

To complete a scoping review of studies of community pharmacy-delivered weight and obesity management services from January 2010 to March 2017.

Methods

A scoping review was conducted to obtain an overview of research related to the study objective. The PubMed, EBSCO and CINAHL databases were searched from January 2010 to March 2017 for articles examining obesity/weight management in community pharmacies. Included studies had to contain an obesity/weight management programme delivered primarily by community pharmacies. All non-interventional studies were excluded.

Key findings

Nine articles were eligible for data extraction. Across the nine included studies, 2141 patients were enrolled. The overwhelming majority of patients enrolled in the studies were female, approximately 50 years of age, had a mean weight of 92.8 kg and mean BMI of 33.8 kg/m2 at baseline. Patients in these various programmes lost a mean of 3.8 kg, however, two studies demonstrated that long-term (>6 months) weight loss maintenance was not achieved. The average dropout rate for each study ranged from 8.3% to 79%.

Conclusions

Obesity has a significant impact on the health and wellness of adults globally. Recent research has shown that community pharmacies have the potential to positively impact patient weight loss. However, additional research is needed into the specific interventions that bring the most value to patients and can be sustained and spread across community pharmacy practice.
Knowledge, attitudes and practice of final-year student pharmacists in public health in Namibia, Zambia and Zimbabwe: an exploratory survey
Authors: Law Miranda G , Maposa Prosper , Chambula Elias , Steeb David R , Eckel Stephen F , Duncan Gregory
Published: May 2018

Objective

To explore the knowledge, attitudes and practice of final-year student pharmacists about public health.

Methods

Knowledge, attitudes and practice of all final-year student pharmacists (N = 158) in Namibia, Zambia and Zimbabwe were assessed through a quantitative 12-item survey. The survey assessed personal interest and attitude towards public health activities, self-assessed ability to perform basic public health activities, perspectives towards current pharmacist practices within public health activities in their country, and student involvement in public health activities during pharmacy school.

Key findings

Eighty-two per cent of students responded to the survey (n = 129). The majority (95%) of all final-year student pharmacists are interested in contributing to public health activities in both health promotion and disease prevention and feel, as pharmacists, they have the responsibility to do so. Additionally, the majority of students would like more education during pharmacy school on health promotion (93%) and disease prevention (89%). Despite their interest, low numbers of student pharmacists feel that pharmacists are currently utilised in disease prevention (35%) and health promotion (42%).

Conclusion

Final-year student pharmacists in Namibia, Zambia and Zimbabwe express strong interest in public health education and involvement in public health activities. This interest and enthusiasm can serve as evidence for advancing public health education in the pharmacy curricula and for developing pharmacist opportunities in public health efforts that match the needs of the country.
Estimated glomerular filtration rate's time to nadir after robot‐assisted partial nephrectomy: Predictors and clinical significance on renal functional recovery
Authors: Santok Glen Denmer , Abdel Raheem Ali , Chang Ki Don , Kim Lawrence , Lum Trenton G , Alenzi Mohamed Jayed , Han Woong Kyu , Choi Young Deuk , Rha Koon Ho
Published: May 2018

Objectives

To investigate the impact of postoperative time to nadir of estimated glomerular filtration rate on renal functional changes after robot‐assisted partial nephrectomy.

Methods

From 2006 to 2015, 287 patients with renal mass who underwent robot‐assisted partial nephrectomy in a referral center were analyzed. The cohort was evaluated based on their time to develop nadir: group 1 (no nadir), group 2 (<48 h) and group 3 (≥48 h). The outcome measures were to evaluate the renal function recovery between groups, risk factors for development of nadir ≥48 h, as well as predictors of chronic kidney disease upstaging.

Results

The mean estimated glomerular filtration rate percentage change was the worst in group 3 compared with groups 1 and 2, with 13.8%, −0.67% and 8%, respectively (P < 0.001). Chronic kidney disease upstaging was more common in group 3 compared with the other groups (P < 0.001). Age, tumor size, PADUA score and warm ischemia time were predictors of developing ≥48 h estimated glomerular filtration rate nadir (odds ratio 1.04, P = 0.002; odds ratio 1.43, P < 0.001; odds ratio 1.24, P = 0.018; odds ratio 1.05, P < 0.001), respectively. The 5‐year probability of freedom from chronic kidney disease upstaging was lower in group 3 (75.6%) compared with the other groups – 88.1% and 100% (P = 0.003). Time to nadir ≥48 h was a predictor of chronic kidney disease upstaging (odds ratio 3.02, P = 0.022).

Conclusions

A continuous decline in estimated glomerular filtration rate (≥48 h) after partial nephrectomy is associated with increased risk of poor functional recovery overtime. Age, tumor size, PADUA score and warm ischemia time are independent predictors of developing ≥48 h time to nadir of estimated glomerular filtration rate. This higher risk subgroup should be targeted for stricter follow up to allow early detection of future risk of renal functional decline.
Ocnus is essential for male germ cell development in Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Zheng Y. , Bi J. , Hou M.‐Y. , Shen W. , Zhang W. , Ai H. , Yu X.‐Q. , Wang Y.‐F.
Published: May 2018

The ocnus (ocn) gene encodes a protein abundant in the testes, implying its role in testis development. When Drosophila melanogaster is infected with the endosymbiont wMel Wolbachia, which affects the spermatogenesis of its hosts, ocn is downregulated in the third‐instar larval testes, suggesting a role of ocn in spermatogenesis. In this study, we knocked down ocn in the testes and found that the hatch rates of embryos derived from ocn‐knockdown males were significantly decreased, and 84.38% of the testes were much smaller in comparison to controls. Analysis of the smaller testes showed no germ cells but they had an extended hub. Using RNA‐sequencing (RNA‐Seq), we identified 69 genes with at least a twofold change (q‐value < 5%) in their expression after ocn knockdown; of these, eight testes‐specific and three reproduction‐related genes were verified to be significantly downregulated using quantitative reverse transcription‐PCR. Three genes (orientation disruptor, p24‐2 and CG13541) were also significantly downregulated in the presence of Wolbachia. Furthermore, 98 genes were not expressed when ocn was knocked down in testes. These results suggest that ocn plays a crucial role in male germ cell development in Drosophila, possibly by regulating the expression of multiple spermatogenesis‐related genes. Our data provide important information to help understand the molecular regulatory mechanisms underlying spermatogenesis.
De‐densification mechanisms of yttria‐doped cerium oxide during sintering in a reducing atmosphere
Authors: Chambon Cébastien , Vaudez Stéphane , Heintz Jean‐Marc
Published: May 2018

The presence of residual carbon in oxides in which the valence state can change during sintering may lead to de‐densification or swelling phenomena during the last stage of sintering. This was demonstrated by sintering a Ce0.85Y0.15O2‐x powder compact with or without added graphite carbon in a reducing atmosphere (Ar/5 vol.% H2) at 1450°C. The shrinkage behavior was studied with a dilatometer combined with an oxygen probe and a gas chromatograph to analyze the composition of the released gases. Oxide reduction during sintering leads to a significant release of oxygen. This oxygen can react with carbon to form gaseous species such as CO. These gases can be released during the second stage of sintering, that is, when the porosity is still open, but they can be trapped in the closing pores during the final stage of sintering. This causes the pressure to increase in the pores, resulting in irreversible swelling, cracking and eventually pellet fracture.
Influence of phase transformation on luminescence properties of CaSiN2 with Eu doping
Authors: Yuan Hailong , Huang Zhifeng , Zhang Jianwen , Chen Fei , Shen Qiang , Zhang Lianmeng
Published: May 2018

Although nitride phosphors have been wildly researched, CaSiN2 is seldom reported. In this paper, two different phases CaSiN2, orthorhombic and cubic phase prepared by plasma‐activated sintering were reported. Without active ions doped, the samples were pure orthorhombic phase. However, when Eu ions were doped into CaSiN2, the samples were consisted of both orthorhombic phase and cubic phase, and the ratio of two phases would change with the sintering temperature changed. Meanwhile, the photoluminescence (PL) intensity of samples would change adversely with the content of cubic phase. The differences between the structures of two phases and the existence form of Eu ions in different phases were reported. It can be inferred that the Eu2+ ions prefer to enter into cubic phase when two phases coexist, and the Eu2+ will be translated to Eu3+ easily due to the loose coordination environment in cubic phase, which will result in weaker PL intensity and worse thermal stability.
Experimental study of phase equilibria in the Al2O3–MgO–TiO2 system and thermodynamic assessment of the binary MgO–TiO2 system
Authors: Ilatovskaia Mariia , Saenko Ivan , Savinykh Galina , Fabrichnaya Olga
Published: May 2018

Phase relations in the MgO–TiO2 and Al2O3–MgO–TiO2 systems have been studied experimentally using X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy combined with dispersive X‐ray spectrometry, and differential thermal analysis. The heat capacity measurements of the Mg2TiO4, MgTiO3, and MgTi2O5 compounds have been carried out in the temperature range of 473‐1373 K using DSC. A new thermodynamic description of the MgO–TiO2 system has been derived based on obtained experimental results, data from literature, and taking into account the cation disordering of the intermediate compounds Mg2TiO4 and MgTi2O5. The liquid phase was described by the two‐sublattice partially ionic model (Mg+2,Ti+2,Ti+3)(O−2,Va,O,TiO2). For the Al2O3–MgO–TiO2 system: the solid‐state invariant reaction involving the intermediate phase of pseudobrookite solid solution have been found at the temperature of 1433 K. On the liquidus surface, the eutectic invariant reaction has been established at 1843 K and the transitional one—at 2006 K. Based on the obtained experimental results isothermal sections within the range 1269‐1697 K of the ternary system have been predicted. The MgTi2O5–Al2TiO5 section has been constructed.
High strain (0.4%) Bi(Mg2/3Nb1/3)O3‐BaTiO3‐BiFeO3 lead‐free piezoelectric ceramics and multilayers
Authors: Murakami Shunsuke , Wang Dawei , Mostaed Ali , Khesro Amir , Feteira Antonio , Sinclair Derek C. , Fan Zhongming , Tan Xiaoli , Reaney Ian M.
Published: May 2018

The relationship between the piezoelectric properties and the structure/microstructure for 0.05Bi(Mg2/3Nb1/3)O3‐(0.95‐x)BaTiO3‐xBiFeO3 (BBFT, x = 0.55, 0.60, 0.63, 0.65, 0.70, and 0.75) ceramics has been investigated. Scanning electron microscopy revealed a homogeneous microstructure for x < 0.75 but there was evidence of a core‐shell cation distribution for x = 0.75 which could be suppressed in part through quenching from the sintering temperature. X‐ray diffraction (XRD) suggested a gradual structural transition from pseudocubic to rhombohedral for 0.63 < x < 0.70, characterized by the coexistence of phases. The temperature dependence of relative permittivity, polarization‐electric field hysteresis loops, bipolar strain‐electric field curves revealed that BBFT transformed from relaxor‐like to ferroelectric behavior with an increase in x, consistent with changes in the phase assemblage and domain structure. The largest strain was 0.41% for x = 0.63 at 10 kV/mm. The largest effective piezoelectric coefficient (d33*) was 544 pm/V for x = 0.63 at 5 kV/mm but the largest Berlincourt d33 (148 pC/N) was obtained for x = 0.70. We propose that d33* is optimized at the point of crossover from relaxor to ferroelectric which facilitates a macroscopic field induced transition to a ferroelectric state but that d33 is optimized in the ferroelectric, rhombohedral phase. Unipolar strain was measured as a function of temperature for x = 0.63 with strains of 0.30% achieved at 175°C, accompanied by a significant decrease in hysteresis with respect to room temperature measurements. The potential for BBFT compositions to be used as high strain actuators is demonstrated by the fabrication of a prototype multilayer which achieved 3 μm displacement at 150°C.
Structural and spectroscopic investigations on the crystallization of uranium brannerite phases in glass
Authors: Zhang Yingjie , Karatchevtseva Inna , Kong Linggen , Wei Tao , Zhang Zhaoming
Published: May 2018

Brannerite‐based glass‐ceramics with relatively high actinide waste loadings are potential waste forms for the immobilization of actinide‐rich radioactive wastes containing process chemicals. In this work, the crystallization of pentavalent uranium brannerite phases in glass with the incorporation of yttrium/cerium/europium has been investigated. The formation of brannerite phases in glass has been confirmed with X‐ray diffraction and Raman spectroscopy. The evolution of microstructures and the development of micro pores in brannerite phases have been revealed by scanning electron microscopy with the nominal formula, Y0.51U0.49Ti2O6, Ce0.65U0.35Ti2O6, and Eu0.53U0.47Ti2O6, being determined with energy‐dispersive spectroscopy. The presence of dominant U5+ species has been proven with both diffuse reflectance spectroscopy and X‐ray absorption near‐edge spectroscopy. In addition, the systematic Raman band shifts with the mean cation radius in the studied brannerite series have been observed and discussed.
TiO2/TNO homojunction introduced in a dye‐sensitized solar cell with a novel TNO transparent conductive oxide film
Authors: Okuya Masayuki , Sato Jun , Endo Takeshi , Iwaki Ryo , Takemura Shuichiro , Muramoto Ryosuke , Nagygyörgy Viola , Madarász János , Nakao Shoichiro , Yamada Naoomi , Sakai Enju , Hitosugi Taro , Hasegawa Tetsuya
Published: May 2018

In this study, niobium‐doped titanium oxide (TNO) was employed for a novel transparent conductive oxide (TCO) film to construct a porous‐TiO2/TNO homojunction in a dye‐sensitized solar cell (DSSC). However, considering a balance between the electrical and optical properties of the TCO film, the sheet resistance in TNO was tuned to be higher than that in a typical fluorine‐doped tin oxide (FTO). The photovoltaic performance of the cell with the TNO film (TNO cell) was optimized to be almost comparable to that with a conventional FTO film (FTO cell) by coating the surface of the porous‐TiO2 layer with a thin alumina or magnesia film to block a back reaction within the cell. An electrochemical impedance measurement was conducted to determine the detailed photovoltaic performance from the viewpoint of electron transportation in the cell. R1, the real part of ω1, indicated that electron transportation at the porous‐TiO2/TNO interface was more favorable than that at the porous‐TiO2/FTO interface, which was supported by AC phase change in the cell at a high‐frequency range. We found that the homojunction newly introduced in the cell is one of the key concepts for developing a DSSC into a high‐performance photovoltaic device.
Severe pain during wound care procedures: A cross‐sectional study protocol
Authors: Fiala Catherine A. , Abbott Linda I. , Carter Cheryl D. , Hillis Stephen L. , Wolf Jessica S. , Schuster Meghan , Dulski Rachel , Grice Elizabeth A. , Rakel Barbara A. , Gardner Sue E.
Published: May 2018

Aim

The aim of this study is to: (a) develop and evaluate a model to predict severe pain during wound care procedures (WCPs) so that high‐risk patients can be targeted for specialized dressings and preventive pain control; and (b) identify biological factors associated with severe pain during WCPs so that novel pain control strategies can be developed.

Background

Wound care procedures such as dressing changes can cause moderate to severe pain in 74% of patients, with nearly half (36%) of all patients experiencing severe pain (rated as 8–10 on a 10‐point numeric rating scale) during dressing change. Additionally, clinicians have little direction with current guidelines regarding pain control during WCPs including the selection of the appropriate advanced wound dressings and the appropriate use of analgesics.

Design

This is a cross‐sectional study.

Methods

The National Institute of Nursing Research approved and funded the study June of 2015 and the appropriate Institutional Review Board approved all study protocols prior to funding. Study enrolment is underway at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics with a target of 525 participants. Potential participants must be adults (21+ years) and have a nonburn, nondiabetic foot, full‐thickness wound. The research team performs a one‐time study dressing change on enrolled participants and collects all study data.

Discussion

This study will allow the development of a tool for clinicians to use to predict severe pain during WCPs and identify biological factors significantly associated with severe pain during WCPs.
A systematic review protocol of educational programs for nursing staff on management of resident‐to‐resident elder mistreatment in residential aged care homes
Authors: Ellis Julie M. , Ayala Quintanilla Beatriz Paulina , Ward Louise , Campbell Fergus , Hillel Stav , Downing Carolyn , Teresi Jeanne , Ramirez Mildred
Published: May 2018

Aim

To review evidence concerning educational programs for nursing staff on management of resident‐to‐resident elder mistreatment with the aim of preventing and reducing this abuse in residential aged care homes.

Background

Although elder abuse has received considerable attention, very little is known regarding resident‐to‐resident elder mistreatment in residential aged care homes and about interventions/programs to prevent and reduce this harm. Nurses play an essential role in identifying and managing aggressive interactions. However, many nurses may not recognize these behaviours as forms of abuse. Thus, it is important to ascertain if educational programs for nursing staff have been developed and implemented.

Design

Quantitative systematic review registered on PROSPERO (CRD42017080925).

Methods

A systematic search of English published studies between 1980 ‐ 2017 will be conducted in CINAHL, Embase, MEDLINE, ProQuest, PsychInfo and Scopus. Risk of bias and quality of the studies will be evaluated by using the Cochrane Collaboration′s tool and the Methodological Index for Nonrandomized studies. A meta‐analysis will be performed, if sufficient homogeneity exists; otherwise, data will be summarized by using a narrative description. This study was funded in January 2017.

Discussion

Nursing staff should play a pivotal role in preventing and/or reducing resident‐to‐resident elder mistreatment. Therefore, it is important to identify available educational programs for nursing staff dealing with this abuse. Consequently, this review may provide evidence‐based care for nursing staff to assist them in protecting older residents from experiencing abuse or being abused and in improving their well‐being.
Levosimendan differentially modulates electrophysiological activities of sinoatrial nodes, pulmonary veins, and the left and right atria
Authors: Lin Yung‐Kuo , Chen Yao‐Chang , Chen Yi‐Ann , Huang Jen‐Hung , Chen Shih‐Ann , Chen Yi‐Jen
Published: May 2018

Introduction

Calcium overload increases the risk of atrial fibrillation (AF). Levosimendan, a calcium sensitizer, increases myofilament contractility. Clinical reports suggested that levosimendan might increase AF occurrence, but the electrophysiological effects of levosimendan on AF substrates and triggers (pulmonary veins, PVs) are not clear.

Methods and results

Conventional microelectrodes were used to record action potentials (APs) in isolated rabbit PVs, sinoatrial nodes (SANs), the left atrium (LA), and right atrium (RA) before and after application of different concentrations of levosimendan with or without milrinone (a phosphodiesterase [PDE] III inhibitor), and glibenclamide (an ATP‐sensitive potassium channel [KATP] inhibitor). Levosimendan (0.03, 0.1, 0.3, and 1 μM) significantly increased spontaneous rates from 2.1 ± 0.2 to 2.5 ± 0.2, 2.5 ± 0.2, 2.5 ± 0.1, and 2.7 ± 0.2 Hz, respectively, in PVs (n = 10), but had no effects on denudated PVs (n = 9). Additionally, levosimendan significantly induced burst firing and/or triggered beats in intact PVs, but not in denudated PVs. In contrast, levosimendan at 0.3 and 1 μM increased the SAN spontaneous rate. In the presence of milrinone (10 μM), levosimendan (1 μM) did not increase the PV spontaneous activity. Moreover, glibenclamide (100 μM) prevented acceleration of the levosimendan‐induced SAN and PV rates. In the LA, levosimendan at 0.3 and 1 μM shortened the AP duration, and increased contractility at 0.03, 0.1, 0.3, and 1 μM. In contrast, levosimendan did not change the RA contractility, and shortened the AP duration only at 1 μM.

Conclusions

Levosimendan increased PV arrhythmogenesis through activating endothelial PDE III and the KATP, and modulating PV tension.
Characterization and functional analysis of hsp21.8b: An orthologous small heat shock protein gene in Tribolium castaneum
Authors: Xie J. , Xiong W. , Hu X. , Gu S. , Zhang S. , Gao S. , Song X. , Bi J. , Li B.
Published: May 2018

Small heat shock proteins (sHSPs) act as molecular chaperones and are widely distributed in all kinds of organisms. Comparative analysis revealed that an orthologous shsp was present during insect evolution. Here, hsp21.8b, one insect orthologous shsp, had been identified in Tribolium castaneum. Quantitative real‐time PCR illustrated that Tchsp21.8b was expressed in all developmental stages, along with the lowest expression at early embryonic stage and relative high expression at other stages especially in late eggs and late pupae. In the adult period, Tchsp21.8b exhibited the highest expression level in central nervous system and followed in elytron, epidermis, ovary and fat body. Moreover, it was upregulated 3.39‐fold in response to enhanced heat stress (45°C) for 4 hr but not to cold stress (4°C) and was upregulated by 1.73‐ to 1.94‐fold under ultraviolet (UV) exposure during 4–6 hr. It was also downregulated by 20.8%–41.8% under starvation in 3 days and had a “down‐up‐down” trend under the pathogen stresses. Larval RNA interference of Tchsp21.8b caused 40.6% insects mortality and reduced the oviposition amount by 66.0% and only 21.0% of the ds‐Tchsp21.8b eggs could hatch into larvae. These results suggested that as an orthologous shsp, Tchsp21.8b not only plays important roles in the growth, development and fecundity of T. castaneum but with the competence to resist the environment stresses, although the response is relatively weak compared to other hsps. Results from this study also uncovered the functions of the orthologous shsp in the development and anti‐stresses ability of T. castanuem. It provided more scientific evidence for revealing the physiological mechanisms of shsps of the insects and enhanced the capabilities to control different pests.
BIBLIOMETRIC ANALYSIS OF THE QUANTITATIVE METHODS APPLIED TO THE MEASUREMENT OF INDUSTRIAL CLUSTERS
Authors: Chain Caio Peixoto , Santos Antônio Carlos dos , Castro Luiz Gonzaga de , Prado José Willer do
Published: May 2018

Literature on methods for analysing interindustry interdependence and geographical concentration of firms began to multiply since the 1990s. The aim of this paper was to systematize the literature on methods and measures applied to the analysis of industrial clusters, as well as to identify trends in this knowledge field. The method used was bibliometrics, which consisted of a frequency evaluation of the publications and the relationship network between them. It was verified an exponential increase in the number of papers that composed this area, based mainly on the theories of New Economic Geography. Recently, the literature has focused on the geographic location in relation to interindustry linkages, and the frontier of knowledge has shifted from traditional methods of regional science to areas such as spatial statistics, econophysics and artificial intelligence. There are still relevant questions being explored, as Modifiable Area Unit Problem (aggregation bias), nevertheless, spatial anisotropy (directional bias) is still neglected and indicates a new research path.
A novel, cell‐permeable, collagen‐based membrane promotes fibroblast migration
Authors: Sadeghi R. , Mahdavi P. , Lee W. S. , Quan B. , Sone E. , Ganss B. , McCulloch C. A.
Published: May 2018

Background and Objective

Growth factors are frequently incorporated into scaffolds to promote periodontal regeneration but many currently used scaffolds do not encourage cell migration towards the dentogingival junction. We examined the proliferation and migration of human gingival fibroblasts in a novel, physically robust, collagen‐Vicryl™ membrane loaded with fibronectin (FN) and/or insulin‐like growth factor (IGF‐I). Biocompatibility of the membranes was evaluated in rat dorsal skin.

Material and Methods

Chemotaxis was examined in Boyden chambers and cell migration by confocal imaging of membranes, which were fabricated from rat tail type I collagen with embedded Vicryl knitted mesh, IGF‐I (50, 100 ng/mL) and FN (10 μg/mL). Membranes (Vicryl alone, collagen+Vicryl, collagen+Vicryl+IGF‐I, collagen+Vicryl+FN’) were implanted subcutaneously in 8 rats and were evaluated by histomorphometry after 7 and 14 days.

Results

IGF‐I (50 or 100 ng/mL) promoted chemotaxis compared with vehicle controls (P = .02, P = .001, respectively). IGF‐I did not affect cell proliferation. Incorporation of FN retarded time‐dependent release of IGF‐I from collagen gels. Three dimensional confocal microscopy imaging of cell migration through collagen+Vicryl membranes showed enhanced migration in the IGF+FN group compared to all other groups at 8, 10 and 14 days (P < .05). In a rat skin model, implanted membranes were surrounded by thin collagen capsules and mild inflammatory infiltrates.

Conclusion

Incorporation of FN into IGF‐I‐loaded collagen+Vicryl membranes reduced IGF release from collagen and increased the migration of human gingival fibroblasts. The new membrane may promote healing and reformation of the dentogingival junction.
Raman spectroscopy of shocked enstatite‐rich meteorites
Authors: Zhang Bidong , Shieh Sean R. , Withers Anthony C. , Bouvier Audrey
Published: May 2018

We present Raman patterns of enstatite in different classes of enstatite‐rich chondrites and achondrites of various shock levels as previously reported from petrographic observations and X‐ray diffraction analyses. Thin sections or mineral separates of four enstatite chondrites (LaPaz Icefield [LAP] 02225, MacAlpine Hills [MAC] 02837, Pecora Escarpment [PCA] 91020, and Itqiy), three aubrites (Larkman Nunatak [LAR] 04316, Khor Temiki, and Allan Hills [ALH] 84008), and a ureilite (Sayh al Uhaymir [SaU] 559) were examined by laser Raman spectroscopy. We find that the frequencies of fundamental Raman peaks of enstatites from the chondrites and aubrites deviate by ≤2 cm−1 from the values for unshocked enstatite. This small difference implies a negligible effect of shock metamorphism on peak positions. Significant differences (<6 cm−1) for peak positions are found for the pyroxenes of SaU 559 and may be attributed to minor substitution of Fe and Ca for Mg. Linear regressions of peak widths of enstatite chondrites against their established shock stages show a strong positive correlation for each mode (r2 > 0.94). From this linear relationship, the 343 and 1014 cm−1 peaks of the aubrites coincide with S4 determined from petrography. For Itqiy, we find S4–5, while the shock levels of SaU 559 exceed the petrologic scheme (S1–6), suggesting that the ureilite might have sustained multiple shock events or have been deformed in a high‐pressure environment. Alternatively, for Itqiy (peak 343 cm−1) and SaU 559 (all peaks) enstatites, minor substitutions of Fe and Ca for Mg may have further broadened their peak widths.
Primary iron sulfides in CM and CR carbonaceous chondrites: Insights into nebular processes
Authors: Singerling S. A. , Brearley A. J.
Published: May 2018

We have carried out a systematic study involving SEM, EPMA, and TEM analyses to determine the textures and compositions of sulfides and sulfide–metal assemblages in a suite of minimally to weakly altered CM and CR carbonaceous chondrites. We have attempted to constrain the distribution and origin of primary sulfides that formed in the solar nebula, rather than by secondary asteroidal alteration processes. Our study focused primarily on sulfide assemblages associated with chondrules, but also examined some occurrences of sulfides within the matrices of these meteorites. Although sulfides are a minor phase in carbonaceous chondrites, we have determined that primary sulfide grains are actually a major proportion of the sulfide grains in weakly altered CM chondrites and have survived aqueous alteration relatively unscathed. In minimally altered CR chondrites, we have determined that essentially all of the sulfides are of primary origin, confirming the observations of Schrader et al. (). The pyrrhotite–pentlandite intergrowth (PPI) grains formed from crystallization of monosulfide solid solution (mss) melts, while sulfide‐rimmed metal (SRM) grains formed from sulfidization of Fe,Ni metal. Micron‐sized metal inclusions in some PPI grains may have formed by co‐crystallization of metal and sulfide from a sulfide melt that experienced S volatilization during the chondrule formation event, or alternatively, may be a remnant of sulfidization of Fe,Ni metal that also occurred during chondrule formation. Sulfur fugacity for SRM grains ranged from −18 to −10 (log units) largely in agreement with predicted solar nebular values. Our observations show that understanding the formation mechanisms of primary sulfide grains provides clues to solar nebular conditions, such as the sulfur fugacity during chondrule formation.
Ethnic nationalism versus religious loyalty: The case of Kurds in Iran
Authors: Tezcür Güneş Murat , Asadzade Peyman
Published: May 2018

When religious differences are present within an ethnic group, how do they affect the scope of its nationalist mobilization? The Kurds of Iran presents an ideal case to address this question given their religious diversity and varying levels of involvement in Kurdish nationalist movements. Building on an institutional approach to ethnic identity, this article argues that the dynamics of Kurdish ethnic mobilization in Iran reflect the nature of political exclusion in the Islamic Republic that is primarily based on sectarian affiliation. The article, based on original datasets compiled using several languages, including Persian and Kurdish, shows that recruitment into the Kurdish insurgency in Iran is significantly stronger in the Sunni Kurdish areas than the Shiite ones. While religious identity limits the appeal of ethno‐nationalism among the Shiite Kurds, it doubles the sense of marginalization among the Sunni Kurds and makes them more receptive to violent insurgent mobilization.
Pternopetalum porphyronotum (Apiaceae), a new Critically Endangered species with abaxially purple leaflets from Sichuan, China
Authors: Zhong Yan , Wang Bin , Zhang Jia‐Zhen , Tan Jin‐Bo
Published: May 2018

Pternopetalum porphyronotum, a new species from Dafengding Nature Reserve, Sichuan Province, China, is proposed and described. Diagnostic morphological characters, full description and detailed illustrations are provided. Pternopetalum porphyronotum is quite different from the other known species of this genus by the following 2 characters: the 1‐pinnate leaves and the abaxially purple–red leaflets (paler along the edge). A comparison between the new species and the two most similar congeners P. subalpinum and P. gracillimum are presented. The novelty was found only on two cliffs in the much human‐affected outskirst of the nature reserve and is asessed as Critically Endangered (CR).
Boeica clarkei sp. nov. (Gesneriaceae) from northeastern India
Authors: Vadakkoot Sankaran Hareesh , Alfred Joe , Mamiyil Sabu
Published: May 2018

Boeica clarkei, a new species is described from Arunachal Pradesh, northeastern India. This novelity resemble B. porosa but differ in having corolla externally pubescent, an inconspicuous disc and transversely dehiscing anthers. From B. multinervia it differs in being pubescent rather than woolly, and in having only 8–12 paired lateral leaf veins, only ca 1 mm long corolla tube, and longer lip lobes. A detailed description along with colour photographs, distribution, conservation status and a key to the Indian species of Boeica are provided.
The rediscovery of Lepisanthes unilocularis (subgen. Otophora; Sapindaceae), a species endemic to Hainan, China
Authors: Wang Qing‐Long , Tang Huan , Wang Mao‐Yuan , Wang Zhu‐Nian , Yang Qing
Published: May 2018

Lepisanthes unilocularis, endemic to Hainan, China, was considered to be extinct but has now been rediscovered after nearly 80 years. The morphological features and taxonomy of the species are described and discussed in this paper.