bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In vivoevaluation of shark teeth‐derived bioapatites
Authors: López‐Álvarez Miriam , Vigo Eva , Rodríguez‐Valencia Cosme , Outeiriño‐Iglesias Verónica , González Pío , Serra Julia
Published: August 2016

Objective

The present work proposes the shark teeth as a new source of bioapatites for bone filler applications in maxillary sinus elevation, periodontal regeneration or implants placement. This abundant fishing by‐product provides an improved hydroxyapatite (HA) with fluorine contributions. Thein vivoevaluation of osteointegration and bone mineral density levels promoted by these marine bioapatites was the main objective.

Materials and Methods

Marine bioapatite granules of two sizes (1 mm, <20 μm) were obtained and characterized (XRD,SEM,ICP‐OES) to determine morphology and composition.In vivoevaluation was performed, after bioapatites implantation in critical defects of parietal bone of 25 rats, for 3 weeks. Commercial syntheticHA/βTCP(60/40%) material and unfilled defects were used as controls. Radiology, micro‐CT, histology and quantification of bone mineral density are presented.

Results

These marine bioapatites presented a globular porous morphology. A biphasic composition ~70% apatitic (HA, apatite‐CaF, fluorapatite) and ~30% non‐apatitic phase (whitlockite, tricalcium bis(orthophosphate)), with contributions of F (1.0 ± 0.5%wt), Na (0.9 ± 0.2%wt) and Mg (0.65 ± 0.04%wt) was confirmed. After implantation period, higher osteointegration of 1‐mm marine bioapatites than commercial synthetic granules was observed, together with bone formation from the defect surroundings but also at central area (potential osteoinductive properties). New bone cells penetrated inside pores and inter‐granular cavities. Higher bone mineral density, in both 1‐mm and <20‐μm granules, than on commercial synthetic graft was determined, being significant in 1‐mm bioapatites (aP < 0.05).

Conclusion

Shark teeth bioapatites were successfully validated as new functionally efficient bone filler in rat model, promoting significantly increased bone mineral density than synthetic control.
Microarray expression in peri‐implant tissue next to different titanium implant surfaces predicts clinical outcomes: a split‐mouth study
Authors: Menini M. , Dellepiane E. , Baldi D. , Longobardi M. G. , Pera P. , Izzotti A.
Published: August 2016

Objectives

This split‐mouth study evaluated miRNA expression of tissues around implants with different surface treatments.

Material and methods

Each patient of the sample (five men and five women) received two implants (one control and one test) into an edentulous quadrant to support fixed partial dentures. The control implants (Osseotite) had a dual acid‐etched (DAE) surface in the apical portion and a machined coronal part, test implants (Full Osseotite, FOSS) were completely DAE. Machined healing abutments were placed on control implants and DAE abutments on test ones. All implants were assigned codes for blinding. Standardized periapical radiographs were taken at baseline, 2 and 6 months, and 1 year after surgery. Plaque index (PI), bleeding on probing (BOP), and probing depth (PD) were recorded at 3 and 6 weeks, and 2, 3, 6, and 12 months post‐implant placement. After 3 months, a mini‐invasive sample of soft tissue was collected from seven patients (four women and three men) for miRNA microarray analysis.

Results

Control implants showed greater bone resorption (BR) and lower PI: this was not statistically significant. No statistically significant differences in BOP and PD appeared. miRNA modulated by implant surfaces as well as by other clinical conditions has been identified. miRNA microarray analysis revealed that: (i) implant sites with low PI and absence of BOP had a miRNA expression profile similar to those with plaque and absence of BOP; sites with high PI and high BOP had a different profile. (ii) Implant sites with BOP presented similar profiles independently from implant surface. (iii) Implant sites with high PI and normal BR differed from others for miRNA expression profile. (iv) Implant sites with normal BR despite high BOP differed from others. This profile resembled that of FOSS implants. (v) Implant surface affected BR; groups having similar BR clusterized differently according to the implant type.

Conclusions

DAE surfaces induced lower BR and more plaque accumulation: This did not affect the health of soft tissues. miRNA analysis indicated that soft tissue inflammation is more related to gene expression profile than to plaque or to implant surface. Specific miRNA profile can protect implant sites from bleeding and BR irrespective of plaque accumulation.
Improving Law‐Enforcement Effectiveness and Efficiency in Protected Areas Using Ranger‐collected Monitoring Data
Authors: Critchlow Rob , Plumptre Andrew J. , Alidria Bazil , Nsubuga Mustapha , Driciru Margaret , Rwetsiba Aggrey , Wanyama F. , Beale Colin M.
Published: August 2016

Protected areas are fundamental for conservation, yet are constantly threatened by illegal activities, such as cattle encroachment and wildlife poaching, which reduce biodiversity. Law enforcement is an essential component of reducing illegal activities. Although necessary, law enforcement is costly and its effectiveness in the field is rarely monitored. Improving ranger patrol efficiency is likely to decrease illegal activity occurrence and benefit biodiversity conservation, without additional resource implications. Using ranger‐collected data, we develop a method to improve ranger patrol allocation, targeting different combinations of conservation priorities, and predict that detections of illegal activities can be greatly improved. In a field test in Queen Elizabeth Protected Area, Uganda, we increased detections of illegal activities in some cases by over 250% without a change in ranger resources. This easily implemented method can be used in any protected area where data on the distribution of illegal activities are collected, and improve law‐enforcement efficiency in resource‐limited settings.
Management of type 2 diabetes: the current situation and key opportunities to improve care in the UK
Authors: Bain S. C. , Feher M. , Russell‐Jones D. , Khunti K.
Published: August 2016

In common with global trends, the number of individuals with type 2 diabetes in the UK is rising, driven largely by obesity. The increasing prevalence of younger individuals with type 2 diabetes is of particular concern because of the accelerated course of diabetes‐related complications that is observed in this population. The importance of good glycaemic control in the prevention of microvascular complications of diabetes is widely accepted, and there is a growing body of evidence to support a benefit in the reduction of cardiovascular events in the long term. Despite the importance of maintaining a healthy weight for the prevention of type 2 diabetes, the results from trials of lifestyle intervention strategies to reduce body weight have been disappointing. New glucose‐lowering agents offer some promise in this regard, offering an opportunity to combat the dual burden of hyperglycaemia and obesity simultaneously. The timing and appropriate choice of glucose‐lowering therapy has never been more complex as a result of rising prevalence of obesity in the young, concomitant obesity in some 90% of adults with type 2 diabetes and an ever‐increasing range of therapeutic options. The present review evaluates performance measures specific to weight and glycaemic control in type 2 diabetes in the UK using data from the Quality and Outcomes Framework in England and Wales, and the Scottish Diabetes Survey. Potential barriers to improvement in standards of care for people with type 2 diabetes are considered, including patient factors, clinical inertia and the difficulties in translating therapeutic guidelines into everyday clinical practice.
Family Firms and the “Willing Successor” Problem
Authors: Parker Simon C.
Published: August 2016

Many family business owners want their offspring to continue the family business after they have retired. However, they may lack “willing successors.” Drawing on resource–based logic, this paper proposes parental business strategies which enhance the attractiveness of continuation by offspring. These strategies include investment in intangible capital, which is less valuable if offspring sell the firm, and high levels of parental effort. As a by–product, these strategies enhance the financial performance and longevity of those family firms which adopt them, and might help explain the global prevalence of family firms as an organizational form.
An Assemblage–Theoretic Perspective on the Internationalization Processes of Family Firms
Authors: Reuber A. Rebecca
Published: August 2016

Much scholarly attention has been paid to the internationalization of family firms. In this paper, I contend that our knowledge remains limited because of a dominant focus on decision making. I problematize this dominant focus in the literature, propose assemblage theory as a new lens through which to examine family business internationalization, and draw attention to new research questions constructed around the conceptualization of internationalization as a destabilizing influence on family firm logics and routines. In doing so, I pay particular attention to processes associated with internationalization triggers, geographic distance, cultural differences and the family firm as an unfamiliar market actor, and to temporal considerations associated with these processes.
Species traits and catchment‐scale habitat factors influence the occurrence of freshwater mussel populations and assemblages
Authors: Pandolfo Tamara J. , Kwak Thomas J. , Cope W. Gregory , Heise Ryan J. , Nichols Robert B. , Pacifici Krishna
Published: August 2016

Conservation of freshwater unionid mussels presents unique challenges due to their distinctive life cycle, cryptic occurrence and imperilled status. Relevant ecological information is urgently needed to guide their management and conservation.

We adopted a modelling approach, which is a novel application to freshwater mussels to enhance inference on rare species, by borrowing data among species in a hierarchical framework to conduct the most comprehensive occurrence analysis for freshwater mussels to date. We incorporated imperfect detection to more accurately examine effects of biotic and abiotic factors at multiple scales on the occurrence of 14 mussel species and the entire assemblage of the Tar River Basin of North Carolina, U.S.A.

The single assemblage estimate of detection probability for all species was 0.42 (95% CI, 0.36–0.47) with no species‐ or site‐specific detection effects identified. We empirically observed 15 mussel species in the basin but estimated total species richness at 21 (95% CI, 16–24) when accounting for imperfect detection.

Mean occurrence probability among species ranged from 0.04 (95% CI, 0.01–0.16) for Alasmidonta undulata, an undescribed Lampsilis sp., and Strophitus undulatus to 0.67 (95% CI, 0.42–0.86) for Elliptio icterina. Median occurrence probability among sites was <0.30 for all species with the exception of E. icterina. Site occurrence probability generally related to mussel conservation status, with reduced occurrence for endangered and threatened species.

Catchment‐scale abiotic variables (stream power, agricultural land use) and species traits (brood time, host specificity, tribe) influenced the occurrence of mussel assemblages more than reach‐ or microhabitat‐scale features.

Our findings reflect the complexity of mussel ecology and indicate that habitat restoration alone may not be adequate for mussel conservation. Catchment‐scale management can benefit an entire assemblage, but species‐specific strategies may be necessary for successful conservation. The hierarchical multispecies modelling approach revealed findings that could not be elucidated by other means, and the approach may be applied more broadly to other river basins and regions. Accurate measures of assemblage dynamics, such as occurrence and species richness, are required to create management plans for effective conservation.
Riverine networks constrain β‐diversity patterns among fish assemblages in a large Neotropical river
Authors: Vitorino Júnior Oscar B. , Fernandes Rodrigo , Agostinho Carlos S. , Pelicice Fernando M.
Published: August 2016

Riverine metacommunities have been studied mainly in streams and headwaters, and little is known about how dendritic networks affect metacommunity structure in large river systems. We, therefore, examined fish assemblages in the Upper Tocantins River, Amazon Basin, to investigate the hypothesis that riverine networks constrain metacommunity structure. In particular, we investigated (i) taxonomic and functional β‐diversity along the river channel (main stem) and major tributaries (branches); (ii) the relative importance of the turnover and nestedness components; and (iii) the relationship between β‐diversity and spatial structure (the distance decay of similarity).

Fish assemblages were sampled over a year (2007–2008) at 17 sites distributed along the main stem (n = 8) and branches (n = 9). We recorded 170 fish species in the 100‐km river section studied. Local species richness ranged from 45 to 79, with higher mean values in the main stem; local assemblages, however, showed high functional richness, with no significant difference between the main stem and branches.

We observed that the turnover component contributed 87.7% of the variation in taxonomic β‐diversity (Jaccard), while the nestedness‐resultant contributed 12.3%. Taxonomic β‐diversity was on average 2.5 times higher than functional diversity, and taxonomic turnover was on average four times greater than functional turnover. In addition, a null model showed that observed values of functional β‐diversity were not different from random expectations, given the observed level of taxonomic β‐diversity. Branches showed higher species turnover, while significant distance decay of similarity was observed only along the main stem. Functional β‐diversity was not different between the main stem and branches and did not correlate with watercourse distance.

Our study revealed that fish metacommunity in this large river shows species turnover, but with high functional similarity. In addition, different β‐diversity patterns between the main stem and branches indicate that the dendritic network constrained metacommunity structure. Mass effects and dispersal limitations probably explain β‐diversity patterns in the main stem, while a combination of mechanisms (i.e., disturbance, specific biological functions and dispersal constraints) affect diversity in the branches.
Establishment of an appropriate fall prevention program: A community‐based study
Authors: Otaka Yohei , Morita Mitsuo , Mimura Toshio , Uzawa Mitsuyoshi , Liu Meigen
Published: August 2016

Aim

To identify an appropriate community‐based fall prevention program

Methods

We introduced two programs to 24 senior centers, “community salons,” in a Japanese city, and carried out a prospective controlled trial between 2004 and 2005. Eight salons (185 participants aged 72.0 ± 7.1 years) received a single‐visit program consisting of one multidisciplinary team visit that included fall risk assessment with feedback and a fall prevention lecture. A total of 16 salons (418 participants aged 73.6 ± 7.4 years) received a year‐round comprehensive program, with visits carried out every 3 months. We compared the fall rates for 1 year between the two programs. Based on the results, we implemented a modified program until 2014 and examined the long‐term consequences.

Results

In the prospective controlled trial, fall rates did not differ significantly between programs (P = 0.449). Instead, fall rates for both programs decreased significantly by 0.89 (95% CI 0.84–0.94) times each month. Therefore, we implemented a modified version of the single‐visit program. By March 2014, the programs had been delivered to 1863 individuals, and the total number of attendees was 6622. The average attendance frequency per participant was 0.62 times per year. The majority (85.3%) of salons requested the program every year. Overall, the risk of falling (fall rates in the preceding year) decreased significantly as the number of program attendances increased (incident rate ratio = 0.89, 95% CI 0.85–0.92) irrespective of initial program types.

Conclusions

The programs including fall risk assessment with feedback and a fall prevention lecture reduced falls when embedded into the community, and they were accepted well over the course of 10 years. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2017; 17: 1081–1089.
Need or Greed? Conditions for Collective Action against Corruption
Authors: Bauhr Monika
Published: August 2016

This article calls into question one of the implicit assumptions linking democratic accountability to reduced corruption, namely, that citizens will expose institutions rife with venality and mobilize for better government. Instead, mobilization may be contingent on the type of corruption. The study develops a distinction between need and greed corruption and suggest that citizens are more likely to engage in the fight against corruption when corruption is needed to gain access to “fair” treatment (need corruption) as opposed to special illicit advantages (greed corruption). Using data from the Global Corruption Barometer 2013, the study suggest that need corruption mobilizes citizens, in particular if they perceive that fellow citizens will also engage, while greed corruption leads to secrecy, demobilization, and a propensity to “free ride” on other citizens’ anticorruption efforts. The study thereby contributes to a better understanding of fundamental conditions for collective action against corruption and explaining why greed corruption persists in societies with well‐established institutions for accountability.
MicroRNA‐3178 ameliorates inflammation and gastric carcinogenesis promoted by Helicobacter pylori new toxin, Tip‐α, by targeting TRAF3
Authors: Zou Meijuan , Wang Fang , Jiang Aiqin , Xia Anliang , Kong Siya , Gong Chun , Zhu Mingxia , Zhou Xin , Zhu Jun , Zhu Wei , Cheng Wenfang
Published: August 2016

Background

Helicobacter pylori infection is the main cause of chronic gastritis, peptic ulcer, and gastric cancer. Tip‐α is a newly identified carcinogenic factor present in H. pylori. TRAF3 can activate NF‐κB by both canonical and noncanonical signaling pathways. In this study, we found that the expression of TRAF3 and NF‐κB was upregulated, while microRNA‐3178 (miR‐3178) was decreased in H. pylori‐positive gastric tissues but not in H. pylori‐negative tissues.

Materials and Methods

GES‐1 cells were incubated with 12.5 μg/mL recombinant Tip‐α (rTip‐α) in RPMI1640 for 2 hours. After another 24 hours, the supernatant medium was designed as inflammatory‐conditioned medium (ICM) and that from the untreated control cells was designed as untreated control medium. The release of proinflammatory cytokines from GES‐1 cells and proliferation of gastric cancer cells was determined by ELISA and CCK‐8 kits. Cells were transfected with the mimic, inhibitor, negative control of miR‐3178, or TRAF3 siRNA control siRNA. The medium was then replaced with RPMI1640, 12.5 μg/mL rTip‐α, and collected, and the total cellular RNA and protein were extracted for the following detection.

Results

MiR‐3178 mimic prevented the increasement of TRAF3 and hence decreased activation of NF‐κB signals, whereas miR‐3178 inhibitor could not, in GES‐1 cells with Tip‐α treatment. The condition medium from miR‐3178 mimic transfected GES‐1 cells could inhibit proliferation and induce apoptosis of inflammation‐related gastric cancer cells SGC7901 and MGC803 by decreasing the production of inflammatory cytokines TNF‐α and IL‐6, which were secreted by GES‐1 cells.

Conclusions

Taken all together, Tip‐α might activate NF‐κB to promote inflammation and carcinogenesis by inhibiting miR‐3178 expression, which directly targeting TRAF3, during H. pylori infection in gastric mucosal epithelial cells.
Emodin alleviates hepatic steatosis by inhibiting sterol regulatory element binding protein 1 activity by way of the calcium/calmodulin‐dependent kinase kinase–AMP‐activated protein kinase–mechanistic target of rapamycin–p70 ribosomal S6 kinase signaling pathway
Authors: Wang Shaojie , Li Xiaojie , Guo Hongli , Yuan Zihang , Wang Tao , Zhang Luyong , Jiang Zhenzhou
Published: August 2016

Aim

To investigate the effects of emodin on the treatment of non‐alcoholic fatty liver and the underlying mechanisms.

Methods

In vitro, hepatocytes were treated with 1 mM free fatty acid together with various concentrations of emodin. In vivo, Sprague–Dawley rats were divided into a control group, high‐fat diet (HFD) group, and three HFD groups treated with 40, 80, and 160 mg/kg emodin, respectively. After being fed a HFD for 4 weeks, rats were orally dosed with emodin once daily for 8 weeks. The biochemical parameters and histology features were examined. The expression of lipogenic and lipolytic gene and protein and the phosphorylation of calcium/calmodulin‐dependent kinase kinase (CaMKK), AMP‐activated protein kinase (AMPK), mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) and p70 ribosomal S6 kinase (p70S6K) were measured in vitro and in vivo.

Results

Emodin improved lipid accumulation in vitro and in vivo. Emodin downregulated the levels of sterol regulatory element binding protein 1 (SREBP1) and its target enzymes but increased lipolysis‐related proteins and mRNA. Phosphorylation of AMPK was increased, while phosphorylation of mTOR and p70S6K were suppressed by emodin. The nuclear translocation of SREBP1 was inhibited by emodin by AMPK and mTOR. Emodin activated AMPK by CaMKK and reversed the reduction of CaMKK in HFD‐fed rats.

Conclusion

Emodin effectively ameliorates hepatic steatosis through the CaMKK–AMPK–mTOR–p70S6K–SREBP1 signaling pathway.
Preparedness for use of the rapid result HIV self‐test by gay men and other men who have sex with men (MSM): a mixed methods exploratory study among MSM and those involved in HIV prevention and care
Authors: Flowers P , Riddell J , Park C , Ahmed B , Young I , Frankis J , Davis M , Gilbert M , Estcourt C , Wallace L , McDaid LM
Published: August 2016

Objectives

The aim of the study was to explore preparedness for the HIV self‐test among men who have sex with men (MSM) and those involved in HIV prevention and care.

Methods

A mixed methods exploratory research design was employed, detailing awareness and willingness to use the self‐test and the perceived barriers and facilitators to implementation. Quantitative and qualitative data collection and analysis were completed in parallel. Descriptive and inferential analysis of cross‐sectional bar‐based survey data collected from MSM through a self‐completed questionnaire and oral fluid specimen collection (n = 999) was combined with qualitative, thematic, analysis of data collected through 12 expert focus groups (n = 55) consisting of gay men, National Health Service (NHS) staff, community organizations, entrepreneurs and activists. Findings were subsequently combined and assessed for synergies.

Results

Among MSM, self‐test awareness was moderate (55%). Greater awareness was associated with increased educational attainment [adjusted odds ratio 1.51; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.00–2.30; P = 0.05] and previous history of sexually transmitted infection (STI) testing (adjusted odds ratio 1.63; 95% CI 1.11–2.39; P = 0.01). Willingness to use the test was high (89%) and associated with meeting sexual partners online (unadjusted odds ratio 1.96; 95% CI 1.31–2.94; P < 0.001). Experts highlighted the overall acceptability of self‐testing; it was understood as convenient, discreet, accessible, and with a low burden to services. However, some ambivalence towards self‐testing was reported; it could reduce opportunities to engage with wider services, wider health issues and the determinants of risk.

Conclusions

Self‐testing represents an opportunity to reduce barriers to HIV testing and enhance prevention and access to care. Levels of awareness are moderate but willingness to use is high. Self‐testing may amplify health inequalities.
Informal versus formal search: Which yields better pay?
Authors: Tumen Semih
Published: August 2016

Estimates on the effect of job contact method (i.e., informal versus formal search) on wage offers vary considerably across studies, with some finding a positive correlation between getting help from informal connections and obtaining highly paid jobs, while others finding a negative one. In this paper, I investigate theoretically the sources of discrepancies in these empirical results. Using a formal job search framework, I derive an equilibrium wage distribution which reveals that informal search yields for some groups higher and for some others lower wages than formal search. The key result is the existence of non‐monotonicities in wage offers. Two potential sources of these non‐monotonicities exist: peer effects and unobserved worker heterogeneity in terms of the inherent cost of maintaining connections within a productive informal network. The model predicts that a greater degree of unobserved heterogeneity tilts the estimates toward producing a positive correlation between informal search and higher wages, whereas stronger peer influences tend to yield a negative correlation. This conclusion informs the empirical research in the sense that identification of the true correlation between job contact methods and wage offers requires a careful assessment of the unobserved heterogeneity and peer influences in the relevant sample.
Practice audit of the role of the Non‐medical surgical assistant in Australia, an online survey
Authors: Hains Toni , Turner Catherine , Strand Haakan
Published: August 2016

The term Non‐Medical Surgical Assistant (NMSA) encompasses all roles where healthcare clinicians without a medical degree provide clinical services during the perioperative cycle. The role of NMSA is gaining momentum within Australia. It is timely to ascertain who is preforming the role and quantify the practice setting and scope of practice to enable a nationally recognised platform for role evolution. For two months in 2015 a NMSA Practice Audit was available online. Sampling was initially of a convenience modality. A total of 83 clinicians responded. The majority of NMSAs were experienced RNs [>11yrs]; held post‐graduate qualifications [80%], practiced predominantly in metropolitan areas [65%] and had been performing the role for 8 years or less. The specialty with the highest uptake of the NMSAs is orthopaedic surgery. This paper provides an overview of NMSAs practicing in Australia and provides cost effective evidence of the need for this service in Australian healthcare.
Biopsychosocial predictors of coping strategies of patients postmyocardial infarction
Authors: Son Heesook , Friedmann Erika , Thomas Sue A , Son Youn‐Jung
Published: August 2016

Data from the Patients and Families Psychological Response to the Home Automated External Defibrillator Trial were used to examine the relationship between biopsychosocial variables and patients' coping strategies postmyocardial infarction. This study is the secondary data analysis of longitudinal observational study. A total of 460 patient–spouse pairs were recruited in January 2003 to October 2005. Hierarchical linear regression analysis examined biological/demographic, psychological and social variables regarding patients' coping scores using the Family Crisis Oriented Personal Evaluation Scale. Lower social support and social support satisfaction predicted lower total coping scores. Being younger, male gender and time since the myocardial infarction predicted lower positive coping strategy use. Higher anxiety and lower social support were related to fewer positive coping methods. Lower educational levels were related to increased use of negative coping strategies. Reduced social support predicted lower total coping scores and positive coping strategy use and greater passive coping style use. Social support from a broad network assisted with better coping; those living alone may need additional support. Social support and coping strategies should be taken into consideration for patients who have experienced a cardiac event.
Bishop scoring: Perceived benefits of using in labour induction by Turkish midwives
Authors: Özkan Hava , Çapik Ayla , Üst Zehra Demet , Aksoy Ayşenur , Ceylan Handan
Published: August 2016

It is not always possible to achieve a successful induction. Bishop scoring system is an efficient method used in determining whether the induction will be effective or not. The aim of this study was to train midwives on the benefits and use of the Bishop scoring system and to minimize the unnecessary use of induction. This study was conducted as pretest–posttest quasi‐experimental design. This study was conducted in a maternity hospital in Erzurum between 01 February and 31 July 2012. In the study, the midwives received training on the use of the Bishop scoring system, and changes in their knowledge levels and application during practice of induction were then evaluated. While only 20% of midwives were using the Bishop score before the training, 56.7% started to use this tool after the training. Comparing the examinations performed on pregnant women by the midwives in the pre‐induction period before and after the training, the mean of the Bishop score changed from 7.26 to 9.68 after the training. It was determined that the training could increase the knowledge levels of midwives regarding the Bishop scoring system and their attention paid to the Bishop scoring system in the practice of induction.
A telephone intervention to achieve differentiation in dietary intake: a randomized trial in paediatric primary care
Authors: Rhodes E. T. , Vernacchio L. , Mitchell A. A. , Fischer C. , Giacalone P. , Ludwig D. S. , Ebbeling C. B.
Published: August 2016

Background

Telehealth offers opportunities to extend clinical and research interventions for paediatric obesity.

Objectives

To assess utility of a telephone intervention, implemented through a national primary care paediatric research network, for promoting differentiation in dietary intake, consistent with either a low‐glycemic load (Low GL) or Low Fat prescription, among overweight/obese school‐age children.

Methods

Five‐week telephone dietary counselling intervention for parents of overweight/obese school‐age children recruited through the Slone Center Office‐based Research Network. Parent‐child dyads were randomized to Low GL or Low Fat diet. Primary outcomes were dietary GL and dietary fat, adjusted for energy intake and assessed by 24‐h dietary recall.

Results

Subjects were randomized to Low GL (n = 11, 8.1 ± 1.7 years, 45.5% male) or Low Fat (n = 11, 8.2 ± 2.0 years, 36.4% male), with no baseline differences. Overall, 86% of subjects attended at least four of five counselling sessions, and study completion rate was 91% (based on completion of the final dietary recalls). Reported satisfaction was high. In adjusted analyses limited to ‘recall completers,’ reduction in dietary GL (g/1000 kcal) achieved within the Low GL group was significant (p = 0.01) and greater than the change in dietary GL in the Low Fat group (mean ± SE; −12.9 ± 4.4 vs. 5.1 ± 4.9, p = 0.03). Similarly, reduction in dietary fat (% of total energy) within the Low Fat group was significant (−5.6 ± 2.5, p = 0.046) but with no difference between groups (p = 0.25).

Conclusion

A telephone‐based dietary intervention for overweight/obese children, implemented through a national paediatric research network, fostered prescribed dietary changes. ClinicalTrials.gov registration: NCT00620152
Gartanin induces cell cycle arrest and autophagy and suppresses migration involving PI3K/Akt/mTOR and MAPK signalling pathway in human glioma cells
Authors: Luo Ming , Liu Qingyu , He Mingliang , Yu Zhiling , Pi Rongbiao , Li Min , Yang Xiaohong , Wang Shengnan , Liu Anmin
Published: August 2016

In central nervous system, glioma is the most common primary brain tumour. The diffuse migration and rapid proliferation are main obstacles for successful treatment. Gartanin, a natural xanthone of mangosteen, suppressed proliferation, migration and colony formation in a time‐ and concentration‐dependent manner in T98G glioma cells but not in mouse normal neuronal HT22 cells. Gartanin, at low micromole, led to cell cycle arrest in G1 phase accompanied by inhibited expression level of G1 cell cycle regulatory proteins cyclin D1, while increased expression level of cyclin‐dependent kinase inhibitor p27Kip1. In addition, the secretion and activity of matrix metalloproteinases 2/9 (MMP‐2/‐9) were significantly suppressed in T98G cells treated with gartanin, and it might result from modulating mitogen‐activated protein kinases (MAPK) signalling pathway in T98G glioma cells. Moreover, gartanin significantly induced autophagy in T98G cells and increased GFP‐LC3 punctate fluorescence accompanied by the increased expression level of Beclin 1 and LC3‐II, while suppressed expression level of p62. Gartanin treatment resulted in obvious inhibition of PI3K/Akt/mTOR signalling pathway, which is important in modulating autophagy. Notably, gartanin‐mediated anti‐viability was significantly abrogated by autophagy inhibitors including 3‐methyladenine (3‐MA) and chloroquine (CQ). These results indicate that anti‐proliferation effect of gartanin in T98G cells is most likely via cell cycle arrest modulated by autophagy, which is regulated by PI3K/Akt/mTOR signalling pathway, while anti‐migration effect is most likely via suppression of MMP‐2/‐9 activity which is involved in MAPK signalling pathway.
Research Review: Multi‐informant integration in child and adolescent psychopathology diagnosis
Authors: Martel Michelle M. , Markon Kristian , Smith Gregory T.
Published: August 2016

Background

An empirically based, clinically usable approach to cross‐informant integration in clinical assessment is needed. Although the importance of this ongoing issue is becoming increasingly recognized, little in the way of solid recommendations is currently provided to researchers and clinicians seeking to incorporate multiple informant reports in diagnosis of child psychopathology. The issue is timely because recent developments have created new opportunities for improved handling of this problem. For example, advanced theories of psychopathology and normal and abnormal child development provide theoretical guidance for how integration of multiple informants should be handled for specific disorders and at particular ages. In addition, more sophisticated data analytic approaches are now available, including advanced latent variable models, which allow for complex measurement approaches with consideration of measurement invariance.

Findings

The increasing availability and mobility of computing devices suggests that it will be increasingly feasible for clinicians to implement more advanced methods rather than being confined to the easily memorized algorithms of the DSM system.

Conclusions

Development of models of cross‐informant integration for individual disorders based on theory and tests of the incremental validity of more sophisticated cross‐informant integration approaches in comparison to external validation criteria (e.g. longitudinal trajectories and outcomes, treatment response, and behavior genetic etiology) should be a focus of future work.
Epistemic injustice and responsibility in borderline personality disorder
Authors: Kyratsous Michalis , Sanati Abdi
Published: August 2016

Miranda Fricker's concept of epistemic injustice has been quite a novel idea in epistemology. It brings something new to the fields of epistemology and ethics. Fricker draws our attention to a distinctive species of injustice, the epistemic injustice, in which someone is specifically wronged in his capacity as a knower. There has been a significant amount of work done in epistemic injustice, both in race and gender studies. The application of the concept in the context of mental health is less explored.

Here, we aim to apply the concept of epistemic injustice in attributing responsibility to patients with borderline personality disorder. Attributing responsibility involves holding someone accountable for his presumed wrongdoings, making judgments on whether the agent has control on his action, on whether is aware of its consequences. It is generally agreed that in order to be morally responsible for an action the person should be worthy of praise or blame for it. Following Aristotle, we focus on epistemic condition in attribution of responsibility. We will discuss the role of epistemic injustice in assessment of epistemic condition of responsibility. We will show that we can misinterpret the agent's intentions because of the presence of systematic prejudices.

We will focus on patients suffering from borderline personality disorder. We provide a case vignette to show a tendency in the professionals in holding these patients responsible for their action when it can be argued otherwise. We argue that prejudice against the patient with borderline personality disorder where the person is seen as manipulative plays a significant role in the process of epistemic injustice. The suggested manipulative nature of patients with borderline personality disorder leads to professionals to ascribe agency and knowledge where it is not due.
Use of clinical practice guidelines by dentists: findings from the Japanese dental practice‐based research network
Authors: Kakudate Naoki , Yokoyama Yoko , Sumida Futoshi , Matsumoto Yuki , Gordan Valeria V , Gilbert Gregg H
Published: August 2016

Rationale, aims and objectives

The objectives of this study were to: (1) examine differences in the use of dental clinical practice guidelines among Japanese dentists, and (2) identify characteristics associated with the number of guidelines used by participating dentists.

Methods

We conducted a cross‐sectional study consisting of a questionnaire survey in Japan between July 2014 and May 2015. The study queried dentists working in outpatient dental practices who are affiliated with the Dental Practice‐Based Research Network Japan (n = 148). They were asked whether they have used each of 15 Japanese dental clinical guidelines. Associations between the number of guidelines used by participants and specific characteristics were analysed via negative binomial regression analysis.

Results

The mean number of guidelines used by participating dentists was 2.5 ± 2.9 [standard deviation (SD)]. Rate of use of guidelines showed substantial variation, from 5% to 34% among dentists. The proportion of dentists that used guidelines was the highest among oral medicine specialists, who had the highest proportion for 10 of 15 guidelines. Negative binomial regression analysis identified three factors significantly associated with the number of guidelines used: ‘years since graduation from dental school’, ‘specialty practice’ and ‘practice busyness’.

Conclusions

These results suggest that the use of clinical practice guidelines by Japanese dentists may still be inadequate. Training in the use of the guidelines could be given to dental students as undergraduate education and to young clinicians as continuing education.
Multidisciplinary Treatment of Severe Upper Incisor Root Resorption Secondary to Transposed Canine
Authors: Korkmaz Yasemin Nur , Yagci Filiz
Published: August 2016

Objective

Tooth transposition is a rare dental anomaly that could lead to undesirable side effects on other teeth. This case report aims to describe the multidisciplinary treatment of a patient with a severely resorbed permanent maxillary central incisor due to transposition with the permanent canine.

Clinical Considerations

A girl aged 13 years and 7 months with a chief complaint of a pink spot on her maxillary left incisor with a slightly erupted tooth above it was referred to our clinic. Her left maxillary canine was transposed to her left central incisor site. The left canine was impacted and had caused severe resorption of the left central incisor root. Her maxillary left canine was substituted for the central incisor after the compulsory extraction of her left central incisor. The canine was prosthetically restored after orthodontic treatment. The results were stable 1 year after treatment had been completed.

Conclusions

Orthodontic treatment in coordination with other dental specialties like prosthodontics, periodontology and oral and maxillofacial surgery can provide functional and esthetic outcome in cases of severely transposed canines.

Clinical Significance

This is a rare case of transposition that shows the significant root resorption on the maxillary central incisor due to the ectopic eruption of the canine. Canine substitution for the central incisor was chosen as a treatment plan instead of placing an implant. An esthetic smile and a functional occlusion were established at the end of the treatment. (J Esthet Restor Dent 29:5–12, 2017)
Community participation of youth with intellectual disability and autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Tint A. , Maughan A. L. , Weiss J. A.
Published: August 2016

Background

Community participation is associated with a range of positive developmental outcomes; however, the frequency, depth and resources associated with participation for youth with intellectual disability (ID) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are not well understood.

Method

Caregivers of 212 youth with ASD and ID and only ID, aged 11–22 years, completed an online survey. Comparisons were made of caregiver reports of diversity and frequency of participation, levels of participation involvement and related environmental barriers and supports.

Results

The diversity and frequency of community participation of youth with ASD and ID approximated that of youth with ID only. Youth with ASD and ID were reported to be significantly less involved in the community activities in which they participated. Environmental features, and in particular, the social demands of community‐based activities, were significant barriers to youths' participation.

Conclusions

The current study highlights individual and environmental factors amenable to intervention that may foster successful community participation among youth with ASD and ID.
Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement Using the Portico System: 10 Things to Remember
Authors: Tzikas Apostolos , Amrane Hafid , Bedogni Francesco , Brambilla Nedy , Kefer Joelle , Manoharan Ganesh , Makkar Raj , Möllman Helge , Rodés‐Cabau Josep , Schäfer Ulrich , Settergren Magnus , Spargias Konstantinos , van Boven Ad , Walther Thomas , Worthley Stephen G. , Sondergaard Lars
Published: August 2016

The Portico system (St. Jude Medical, Minneapolis, MN, USA) consists of a self‐expanding valve prosthesis and a delivery system designed for transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). We describe this system, its 10‐steps implantation procedure, and provide tips and tricks based on our personal experience with this system.
A Comparison of Magnetization Transfer Methods to Assess Brain and Cervical Cord Microstructure in Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Lema Alfonso , Bishop Courtney , Malik Omar , Mattoscio Miriam , Ali Rehiana , Nicholas Richard , Muraro Paolo A. , Matthews Paul M. , Waldman Adam D. , Newbould Rexford D.
Published: August 2016

BACKGROUND

Demyelination is a core pathological feature of multiple sclerosis (MS) and spontaneous remyelination appears to be an important mechanism for repair in the disease. Magnetization transfer ratio imaging (MTR) has been used extensively to evaluate demyelination, although limitations to its specificity are recognized. MT saturation imaging (MTsat) removes some of the T1 dependence of MTR. We have performed a comparative evaluation of MTR and MTsat imaging in a mixed group of subjects with active MS, to explore their relative sensitivity to pathology relevant to explaining clinical outcomes.

METHODS

A total of 134 subjects underwent MRI of their brain and cervical spinal cord. Isotropic 3‐dimensional pre‐ and postcontrast T1‐weighted and T2‐weighted fluid‐attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR) volumes were segmented into brain normal appearing white matter (NAWM), brain WM lesions (WML), normal appearing spinal cord (NASC), and spinal cord lesions. Volumes and metrics for MTR and MTsat histograms were calculated for each region.

RESULTS

Significant Spearman correlations were found with the Expanded Disability Status Scale and timed 25‐foot walk for the whole brain and WML MTR, but not in that from the NAWM or any cervical spinal cord region. By contrast, the MTsat was correlated with both disability metrics in all these regions in both the brain and spine.

CONCLUSIONS

This study extends prior work relating atrophy and lesion load with disability, by characterization of MTsat parameters. MTsat is practical in routine clinical applications and may be more sensitive to tissue damage than MTR for both brain and cervical spinal cord.
Transcranial Doppler as a Predictor of Ischemic Events in Carotid Artery Dissection
Authors: Brunser Alejandro M. , Lavados Pablo M. , Hoppe Arnold , Muñoz‐Venturelli Paula , Sujima Emi , López Javiera , Mansilla Eloy , Cárcamo Daniel , Díaz Violeta
Published: August 2016

BACKGROUND

We aim to evaluate clinical features and transcranial Doppler (TCD) elements, as predictors of the development of ischemic events (IEs) in patients suffering from spontaneous carotid arterial dissection without stroke (CCADW).

METHODS

Consecutive patients with CCADW, seen in Clínica Alemana de Santiago between April 2004 and January 2015, were evaluated clinically, and with TCD, microembolic signals (MES) monitoring and breath hold Index (BHI) test were performed.

RESULTS

Forty‐one patients with 45 CCADW were included. Mean age 41.9 years, 31 male, and 12 (29.1%) patients present with multiple CCADW. At the moment of TCD evaluation, 17 (41.4%) patients were being treated with antiplatelets and the rest under Heparin. TCD monitoring lasted in average 53.3 minutes and demonstrated at the moment of evaluation, MES in four carotid arteries (11.1%) of 3 patients and 13 (28.8%) abnormal BHI in 11 patients. Six IEs occurred in 3 patients, 3 strokes, and 3 transient ischemic attacks. In the univariate analysis correlating IE with clinical and ultrasonographic findings, the degree of carotid stenosis, the presence of multiple CAD, and the presence of MES plus abnormalities of BHI were significantly associated with the risk of an IE. Multivariable analysis showed that only the presence of MES plus abnormal BHI were significant (P < .001). MES and abnormal BHI were present in the 3 patients and in four arterial territories that had IE.

CONCLUSIONS

TCD can identify a subgroup of patients with CCADW who are at high risk of IE.
Better Never to Have Been Born
Authors: Thomas Dan
Published: August 2016

The pro‐life paradox, as I call it, begins with a single claim endorsed by many American Christians: infants and young children are innocent in the sight of God because they cannot yet take responsibility for their spiritual well‐being. With this in mind, I argue that pro‐life believers have unwittingly fallen victim to a theological paradox in which their attempts to save the earthly lives of unborn children make it theoretically possible for said children to die an eternal death. On the one hand, many Christians trust in an eventual spiritual reckoning where God will separate the “sheep” from the “goats” (see Matthew 25:31–46), ushering the former into heaven while damning the latter to hell. However, those who cannot yet repent and seek salvation are not blamed for their spiritual failings. If they die, they go to heaven because they are too young and intellectually immature to know any better. But if dead children are spiritually blameless, then abortion practitioners have perversely and paradoxically saved millions of unborn souls by removing human volition (and thus damnation itself) from the equation and by making it possible for the unborn to experience the joys of heaven without the temptations of earth.