bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of treated and untreated traumatic dental injuries on oral health‐related quality of life among 12‐year‐old schoolchildren in Amman
Authors: Rajab Lamis D. , Abu Al Huda Dana
Published: February 2019

Background/Aims

Traumatic dental injuries (TDI) could have negative effects on the physical and psychosocial well‐being of children. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of TDI and the impact of treated/untreated TDI on the quality of life of children among 12‐year‐old schoolchildren in Amman.

Materials and methods

A cross‐sectional study was conducted with 1652 schoolchildren aged 12 years enrolled in schools in Amman. OHRQol was assessed using the Arabic version of the Child Perceptions Questionnaire (CPQ11‐14). Diagnosis of traumatic dental injury was based on Andreasen's classification. Dental caries and malocclusion were also recorded and analyzed along with social class. Statistical analysis included ANOVA and multiple logistic regression.

Results

The prevalence of TDI was 14.6%. There was a statistically significant impact of untreated TDI on all items of CPQ11‐14. When children with treated TDI were compared with those who had not suffered TDI, the only statistically significant impact was difficulty in chewing. Compared to children with treated TDI and those who had not suffered TDI, children with untreated TDI experienced significantly higher impacts related to the overall OHRQol, oral symptoms, the emotional and social well‐being domains. Regarding functional limitation domain, children with untreated TDI experienced a significantly higher impact than children who had not suffered TDI, but children with treated TDI still had some limitations.

Conclusions

The prevalence of TDI was 14.6%. Untreated TDI had a negative impact on OHRQol compared to absence of or treated TDI among 12‐year‐old schoolchildren in Amman.
Lipid markers and related transcripts during excitotoxic neurodegeneration in kainate‐treated mice
Authors: Chali Farah , Milior Giampaolo , Marty Serge , Morin‐Brureau Mélanie , Le Duigou Caroline , Savary Etienne , Blugeon Corinne , Jourdren Laurent , Miles Richard
Published: February 2019

Lipid homeostasis is dysregulated in some neurodegenerative diseases and after brain injuries due to excess glutamate or lack of oxygen. However the kinetics and cell specificity of dysregulation in different groups of lipids during excitotoxic neuronal death are not clear. Here we examined the changes during excitotoxic neuronal death induced by injecting kainic acid (KA) into the CA1 region of mouse hippocampus. We compared neuronal loss and glial cell proliferation with changes in lipid‐related transcripts and markers for different lipid groups, over 12 days after KA‐treatment. As neurons showed initial signs of damage, transcripts and proteins linked to fatty acid oxidation were up‐regulated. Cholesterol biosynthesis induced by transcripts controlled by the transcription factor Srebp2 seems to be responsible for a transient increase in neuronal free cholesterol at 1 to 2 days. In microglia, but not in neurons, Perilipin‐2 associated lipid droplets were induced and properties of Nile red emissions suggest lipid contents change over time. After microglial expression of phagocytotic markers at 2 days, some neutral lipid deposits co‐localized with lysosome markers of microglia and were detected within putative phagocytotic cups. These data delineate distinct lipid signals in neurons and glial cells during excitotoxic processes from initial neuronal damage to engagement of the lysosome–phagosome system.
The effect of medial pulvinar stimulation on temporal lobe seizures
Authors: Filipescu Cristina , Lagarde Stanislas , Lambert Isabelle , Pizzo Francesca , Trébuchon Agnès , McGonigal Aileen , Scavarda Didier , Carron Romain , Bartolomei Fabrice
Published: February 2019

We investigated the effect of electrical stimulation of the medial pulvinar (PuM) in terms of its effect on temporal lobe seizures. Eight patients with drug‐resistant temporal lobe epilepsy undergoing stereoelectroencephalographic exploration were included. All had at least one electrode exploring the PuM. High‐frequency (50 Hz) stimulations of the PuM were well tolerated in the majority of them. During diagnostic stimulation to confirm the epileptogenic zone, 19 seizures were triggered by stimulating the hippocampus. During some of these seizures, ipsilateral pulvinar stimulation was applied (130 Hz, pulse width = 450 microseconds, duration = 3‐7 seconds, 1‐2 mA). Compared to non–PuM‐stimulated seizures, five of eight patients experienced clinically less severe seizures, particularly in terms of degree of alteration of consciousness. On the electrical level, seizures were more rapidly clonic with a shorter tonic phase. This proof of concept study is the first to suggest that PuM stimulation could be a well‐tolerated and effective means of therapeutic deep brain stimulation in drug‐resistant epilepsies.
Female–female aggression is linked to food defence in a poison frog
Authors: Pröhl Heike , Scherm Martin G. , Meneses Santiago , Dreher Corinna E. , Meuche Ivonne , Rodríguez Ariel
Published: February 2019

Habitat occupancy by territorial animals is expected to depend on the distribution of critical resources. Knowledge on female territoriality is scarce, but it has been suggested as a mechanism to defend limited resources for reproduction. A previous study showed female intrasexual aggression to be associated with territorial behaviour in the strawberry poison frogOophaga pumilio, a diurnal aposematic species with complex maternal care. Here, we investigate the link between spatial distribution of resources important for reproduction and female distribution and behaviour. We observed focal females in their natural habitat in Costa Rica, and recorded the distribution of ecological predictor variables in a grid system. We used the data for calculating home range and territory sizes and for connecting female habitat use to the distribution of potential resources by computing spatial habitat occupancy models. Even though we found females to occupy large home ranges, they were highly aggressive towards other females only inside a small part of their home range, here termed core area. Among the ecological factors, the sustained abundance of ants (main food item of the frogs), the presence of leaf litter and suitable rearing sites for tadpoles predicted female site occupancy patterns. The number of ants per grid was twice as high in the core areas compared to the rest of the female home ranges. Our results suggest that female spacing behaviour is principally driven by the spatial distribution of its main food resource, but that hiding places (leaf litter) and tadpole‐rearing sites also play a role. The defence of areas with sustainably high abundance of ants could be relevant, as egg production and maternal care are energetically highly demanding in this prolonged‐breeding species. Regarding the link between resource defence and maternal care, the reproductive strategy of female strawberry poison frogs resembles that of the females of small mammals comprising same‐sex competition for food and high investment in producing and rearing young.
Internal control quality, voluntary disclosure, and cost of equity capital: The case of an unregulated market
Authors: Khlif Hichem , Samaha Khaled , Soliman Mark
Published: February 2019

This paper examines the direct effect of internal control quality (ICQ) on cost of equity capital and whether ICQ has a moderating effect on the association between voluntary disclosure and cost of equity capital in an emerging market (Egypt). ICQ is measured using a survey of external auditors. A content analysis approach is used to proxy for the level of voluntary disclosure in annual reports. Finally, the Capital Asset Pricing Model framework is used to estimate cost of equity capital. Based on a sample of 512 firm‐year observations over the period 2007–2014, we find that ICQ is negatively and significantly associated with cost of equity capital, indicating that better controls reduce cost of equity capital as predicted by theory. In addition, ICQ moderates the association between voluntary disclosure and cost of equity capital since this association is only negative and significant for companies characterized by high ICQ. These findings remain stable after controlling for endogeneity concerns and political instability. Our study contributes to the internal control literature by focusing on an emergent unregulated market with respect to internal control disclosure and documents that ICQ plays an important role in reducing cost of equity capital (either directly or indirectly) by increasing the value relevance of voluntary disclosure among investors on the Egyptian stock exchange.
Macrophages in wound healing: activation and plasticity
Authors: Kim Sang Yong , Nair Meera G
Published: February 2019

Macrophages are critically involved in wound healing, from dampening inflammation to clearing cell debris and coordinating tissue repair. Within the wound, the complexity of macrophage function is increasingly recognized, with adverse outcomes when macrophages are inappropriately activated, such as in fibrosis or chronic non‐healing wounds. Recent advances in in vivo and translational wound models, macrophage‐specific deletions and new technologies to distinguish macrophage subsets, have uncovered the vast spectrum of macrophage activation and effector functions. Here, we summarize the main players in wound‐healing macrophage activation and function, including cytokines, apoptotic cells, nucleotides and mechanical stimuli. We highlight recent studies demonstrating cooperation between these factors for optimal wound healing. Next, we describe recent technologies such as cell tracking and single‐cell RNA‐seq, which have uncovered remarkable plasticity and heterogeneity in blood‐derived or tissue‐resident macrophages and discuss the implications for wound healing. Lastly, we evaluate macrophage dysfunction in aberrant wound healing that occurs in aging, diabetes and fibrosis. A better understanding of the longevity and plasticity of wound‐healing macrophages, and identification of unique macrophage subsets or specific effector molecules in wound healing, would shed light on the therapeutic potential of manipulating macrophage function for optimal wound healing.
Comparison of endovenous laser treatment and high ligation in treatment of limb varicosity: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Cao Gang , Gu Han‐Cheng , Wang Ji‐Ting , Huang Qiang , Cao Jian‐Chun
Published: February 2019

To assess the efficacy and safety of endovenous laser treatment (EVLT) and high ligation (HL) for limb varicosity using meta‐analysis. Multiple databases including PubMed, Springer, Excerpta Medica Database, Ovid Technologies, and China Journal Full‐text database were searched for relevant studies in English or Chinese, and full‐text articles were used to compare EVLT and HL for limb varicosity. Review Manager 5.0 was used to estimate the effects of the results among eligible articles. Forest plots, sensitivity analysis, and bias analysis of the included articles were also conducted. Initial screening yielded 1031 studies, 11 randomised controlled trials involving 1145 limb varicosity patients met the inclusion criteria in this study. The results of the heterogeneity test suggested that intraoperative blood loss mean difference (MD) = −6.31[−9.03, −3.60], P < 0.00001), operative time (MD) = −39.76[−42.27, −37.24], P < 0.00001), rate of complications (odds ratio [OR] = 0.37[0.22, 0.61], P < 0.0001), and recurrence (OR = 0.28[0.16, 0.49], P < 0.0001) were significantly different. Although both EVLT and HL have their own merits and demerits, EVLT is a more effective and safe method to treat limb varicosity.
Polymer‐derived silicon nitride ceramics by digital light processing based additive manufacturing
Authors: Wang Min , Xie Chen , He Rujie , Ding Guojiao , Zhang Keqiang , Wang Gang , Fang Daining
Published: February 2019

In this work, silicon nitride ceramic components with simple cuboid and complex honeycomb and lattice structures from preceramic polymers were fabricated by using digital light processing (DLP) based additive manufacturing and pyrolysis. The photosensitive precursor for DLP based additive manufacturing was prepared by mixing high ceramic yield polysilazane with commercial acrylic resin and photoinitiator. The material formulation and the structure of the green body were characterized by using FTIR. Si3N4 ceramic cuboid, 2D‐structured Si3N4 ceramic honeycomb, and 2D‐structured Si3N4 ceramic lattice with high precision were fabricated. The DLP‐prepared specimens were pyrolyzed at different temperatures, and the crystalline phases after pyrolysis were analyzed by using XRD. The optimal pyrolysis temperature was found to be 1400°C.microstructures were characterized by using SEM. The compressive behavior of the complex‐shaped Si3N4 ceramic structures was measured and discussed in detail.
Reflective assessment for epistemic agency of academically low‐achieving students
Authors: Yang Yuqin
Published: February 2019

This study aimed to examine the role and process of reflective assessment supported by the Knowledge Connections Analyzer in helping low academic achievers to develop epistemic agency in knowledge building. The participants were 33 ninth‐grade low achievers from a visual arts course in Hong Kong. A comparison class of 33 students, taught by the same teacher and studying the same topics in a regular knowledge‐building environment, also participated. Qualitative tracing of students' online discourse showed that reflective assessment can help low achievers develop high‐level epistemic agency. Qualitative analysis of the students' prompt sheets revealed that reflective assessment encouraged low achievers to set knowledge‐building goals, collectively and continuously analyse and reflect on their inquiry and ideas, and generate actions to address identified gaps, thus helping them engage in high‐level epistemic agency. The study results have important implications for designing technology‐rich environments that support learners and offer insights into how teachers can help learners develop epistemic agency.
The effects of a theory‐based summary writing tool on students' summary writing
Authors: Chew Chiou Sheng , Idris Norisma , Loh Er Fu , Wu Wen‐Chi Vivian , Chua Yan Piaw , Bimba Andrew Thomas
Published: February 2019

This paper focuses on the design and evaluation of a theory‐based computer‐assisted summary writing learning environment called Summary Writing‐PAL (SW‐PAL). The SW‐PAL was developed based on four aspects: summarizing strategies, learning theories, prior knowledge, and cognitive load. A quasi‐experiment that involved 58 undergraduates majoring in Computer Science was conducted to examine the effectiveness of SW‐PAL in writing summaries. Two intact classes were selected with 28 and 30 students in control and experimental groups, respectively. The conventional teaching approach was employed in the control group, whereas the SW‐PAL was introduced to the experimental group. Pretest and posttest were administrated to both groups. The findings indicated that SW‐PAL improved students' summary writing performance. A significant variance was noted between intrinsic and extraneous cognitive load among students with varying levels of English proficiency in the experimental group, signifying that the SW‐PAL is more suitable for students with lower language proficiency.
The spectrum of benign dermal dendritic melanocytic proliferations
Authors: Baykal C. , Yılmaz Z. , Sun G.P. , Büyükbabani N.
Published: February 2019

Dermal melanocytoses (DMs) comprise a heterogeneous group of benign lesions, located on skin and mucous membranes, characterized by dendritic melanocytes in the dermis. Although they share common histopathological features, some variants may present only as bluish or grey patches, some only as papules/nodules/plaques and others may show combination of all of these lesions. Despite the fact that blue naevus (BN) is typically characterized with papulonodular lesions, its variants may show all of the aforementioned presentations. Mongolian spot, naevus of Ota and naevus of Ito are patchy DMs distinguished by their specific localizations. Apart from these classical forms, many atypical variants without unique clinicopathological characteristics have been described in the literature making the nomenclature of DMs more complicated. However, congenital dermal melanocytosis and acquired dermal melanocytosis seem to be crucial umbrella terms that encompass all patchy DMs in atypical locations. Papules or subcutaneous nodules on patchy lesions and association of epidermal pigmentation presenting as brownish patches may be encountered as rare features of DMs. On the other hand, delayed‐onset subcutaneous nodules may be typical presentations of melanoma in patchy DMs; therefore, they deserve special attention. Large plaque‐type BN with subcutaneous cellular nodules is a newly described entity, harbouring clinical features of various DMs together and has a high risk of melanoma. The whole spectrum of dermal dendritic melanocytic proliferations is discussed including novelties and controversial issues.
Photocatalytic effects on the quality of pork packed in the package combined with TiO2 coated nonwoven fabrics
Authors: Zhu Zhiwei , Cai Huanhuan , Sun Da‐Wen , Wang Hsiao‐Wen
Published: February 2019

The ability of titanium dioxide (TiO2) to generate reactive oxygen species (ROS) offers new opportunity to decontaminate perishable foods. The current study was aimed to prepare a TiO2 coated nonwoven fabric photocatalytic package (TiO2/NWF package) and assess the effects of in‐package photocatalysis on pork. In this study, layer by layer self‐assembly method was chosen to coat TiO2 nanoparticles on the NWF and eight layers TiO2 loading showed the higher photoactivity. A selected TiO2/NWF composite was combined with a package to form TiO2/NWF package. Pork was stored in the TiO2/NWF package, the antibacterial effects of TiO2 photocatalysis (TPC) on total viable count and Escherichia coli in pork were achieved. TPC treatment provided better antibacterial efficiency as compared with UV treatment alone. Moreover, TPC treatment significantly (p < .05) influenced pH and lipid oxidation after exposure for 45 min. These results indicate that TiO2/NWF package has the potential for preserving fresh foods.

Practical applications

Traditional thermal treatment can adversely affect the sensory and nutritional quality of foods, titanium dioxide (TiO2) photocatalysis as a nonthermal disinfection technology can provide a low cost and convenient approach to reduce the risk of microbial contamination and enhance the safety of fresh products. The current study developed a TiO2 coated nonwoven fabric photocatalytic package (TiO2/NWF package) and evaluated effects of in‐package photocatalysis on pork samples. Results showed that photocatalytic reactions took place in the TiO2/NWF package and the generated active ROS contributed to the inactivation of microbes. Therefore, TiO2 photocatalysis has great potential for ensuring food safety for the food industry.
Relationship of Functional Reach Test scores and falls in Special Olympics athletes
Authors: Thomas J. , O'Neal S.
Published: February 2019

Background

The Functional Reach Test is used to assess balance of Special Olympic athletes as part of the FUNfitness screens held at Special Olympics games. However, it is unknown if the Functional Reach Test is an accurate assessment of balance in this population. The objective of this study was to explore the relationship between Functional Reach Test scores and falls in Special Olympic athletes.

Methods

Data were collected as a part of the FUNfitness screens during Arizona Special Olympics games. The Functional Reach Test scores of 272 Special Olympic athletes were recorded. Athletes were asked to report the number of falls they experienced in the last 12 months.

Results

A two‐tailed Kendall tau test revealed little to no relationship between number of falls and Functional Reach Test scores of either the left upper extremity (n = 263, τ = −0.063, P = 0.202) or the right upper extremity (n = 263, τ = −0.107, P = 0.030). Sensitivity of the Functional Reach Test to identify fallers was 28.8%, and specificity was 83.5%.

Conclusions

Scores of the Functional Reach Test did not correlate with actual falls. The relatively high specificity indicates the assessment is good at identifying non‐fallers, while the low sensitivity results in a high number of fallers not being recognised as such. Therefore, the cut‐off scores used for the Functional Reach Test in FUNfitness screenings may need to be altered to more accurately identify balance deficits in this population. FUNfitness screens need to be quick, efficient and accurate. As such, selection of the most appropriate assessment tools is essential. Consideration should be given on how to make the Functional Reach Test the most beneficial as a FUNfitness screen.
Fragile X syndrome clinical trials: exploring parental decision‐making
Authors: D'Amanda C. S. , Peay H. L. , Wheeler A. C. , Turbitt E. , Biesecker B. B.
Published: February 2019

Background

The objective of this research was to understand parental proxy decision‐making for drug trial participation for children with Fragile X syndrome (FXS). Specifically, we aimed to capture preferences, motivations, influencing factors and barriers related to trial involvement among trial joiners and decliners and describe ease of trial decision‐making and decisional regret.

Methods

Interviews were conducted with parents from two groups: those who chose to enrol their child with FXS in a trial (N = 16; Joiners) and those who declined trial participation (N = 15; Decliners). Data were coded and interpreted through inductive content analysis.

Results

Prominent decisional factors included attitudes about medicating FXS symptoms, potential for direct benefit (primarily evaluated through the degree of match between target outcomes and child symptomatology and drug mechanism), logistical convenience and perceived risks of side effects. The ultimate motivation for participation was potential for direct benefit. None of the parents reported decisional regret, and ease of decision‐making ranged from easy to difficult for our participants.

Conclusions

Therapeutic optimism was high among those who elected participation. Parents may benefit from an explanation of the rationale behind chosen outcome variables and may be more interested in trials that target or measure as an exploratory outcome the symptoms they find most concerning. Our findings reinforce the need for future trials to reduce participant inconvenience. Our results contrast with what has previously been observed in parents of children with life‐threatening conditions; parents of children with FXS may be more trial risk averse and find trial decisions to be harder. Parents of children with FXS considering trials may benefit from a decisional intervention aimed at deliberating motivations and barriers.
Household Debt Overhang and Unemployment
Authors: DONALDSON JASON RODERICK , PIACENTINO GIORGIA , THAKOR ANJAN
Published: February 2019

We use a labor‐search model to explain why the worst employment slumps often follow expansions of household debt. We find that households protected by limited liability suffer from a household‐debt‐overhang problem that leads them to require high wages to work. Firms respond by posting high wages but few vacancies. This vacancy posting effect implies that high household debt leads to high unemployment. Even though households borrow from banks via bilaterally optimal contracts, the equilibrium level of household debt is inefficiently high due to a household‐debt externality. We analyze the role that a financial regulator can play in mitigating this externality.
Do psychosocial variables mediate the relationship between menopause symptoms and sexual function in middle‐aged perimenopausal women?
Authors: Hong Ji H. , Kim Hye Y. , Kim Ji Y. , Kim Hyun K.
Published: February 2019

Aim

To test a hypothetical path model evaluating the influence of menopause symptoms on sexual function among middle‐aged perimenopausal women, as well as identify the mediating roles of body image, depression and sexual communication in this relationship.

Methods

We used a cross‐sectional, correlational design. We included one exogenous variable (menopause symptoms) and four endogenous variables (body image, depression, sexual communication and sexual function) in the proposed model. All data were collected between January 19 and March 11, 2016, and analyzed using spss statistics 25.0 and AMOS 23.0.

Results

Eight of the nine hypothesized paths in the model were significant. Specifically, menopause symptoms were significantly associated with sexual function via the effects of body image, depression and sexual communication.

Conclusion

This study may provide basic data for counseling and nursing programs to help improve sexual function in middle‐aged perimenopausal women. Particularly, these programs should focus on the indirect paths via body image, depression and sexual communication, such as by improving body image and sexual communication and reducing depression.
Longitudinal Pathways From Shyness in Early Childhood to Personality in Adolescence: Do Peers Matter?
Authors: Baardstu Silje , Coplan Robert J. , Karevold Evalill B. , Laceulle Odilia M. , von Soest Tilmann
Published: February 2019

Temperamental shyness in childhood is theorized to be an important contributor for adolescent personality. However, empirical evidence for such pathways is scarce. Using longitudinal data (N = 939 children, 51% boys) across 17 years, the aim of this study was to examine how shyness development throughout childhood predicted personality traits in adolescence, and the role of peers in these associations. Results from piecewise latent growth curve modeling showed early shyness levels to predict lower emotional stability and openness in adolescence, whereas early shyness levels and growth across childhood predicted lower extraversion. Peer problems in early adolescence accounted for these associations. This study is the first to demonstrate the role of childhood shyness and peer relations for adolescents’ personality development.
Urinalysis and determination of the urine protein‐to‐creatinine ratio reference interval in healthy cows
Authors: Herman Nicolas , Bourgès‐Abella Nathalie , Braun Jean‐Pierre , Ancel Camille , Schelcher François , Trumel Catherine
Published: February 2019

Background

There are no reference intervals for urinalysis in cattle.

Hypothesis/Objectives

Characterize the urine of healthy cows, establish urine protein‐to‐creatinine ratio (UPC) reference intervals, and test possible differences among dairy and beef cattle, age groups, or stage of lactation.

Animals

Seventy‐seven dairy and 74 beef 2.5 to 17 year‐old cows of different breeds housed mainly in free stall.

Methods

In this prospective study, urine specimens were collected by catheterization. Complete urinalysis was performed within 1 hour including specific gravity, dipstick evaluation, visual urine pH evaluation with 0.3 pH unit graded strips, and microscopic evaluation of the sediment. Urinary protein and creatinine concentrations and protein electrophoresis were determined on frozen aliquots.

Results

Overall reference intervals were 1.020 to 1.045 for USG, 7.0 to 8.7 for pH, and 0.04 to 0.25 for UPC; because of differences in creatinine concentration, UPC was lower in beef (0.04‐0.14) than in dairy (0.05‐0.25) cows and in the latter in dry than lactating cows. With dipstick evaluation, most analytes were absent except for blood, ketone, and protein in 24.7, 16.0, and 64.7% of cases, respectively. Microscopic evaluation revealed less than 3 red blood cells, leukocytes, and epithelial cells in 84, 99.3, and 100% cows, respectively. No band was observed at electrophoresis, except in 1 case at MW ~66 000.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Creatininuria is higher in beef than dairy cows and proteinuria is likely more efficiently characterized by protein concentration than by UPC.
Perils of scaling up: Effects of expanding a nutrition programme in Madagascar
Authors: Weber Ann M. , Galasso Emanuela , Fernald Lia C.H.
Published: February 2019

Scaling up integrated nutrition programmes from small, targeted interventions or pilot studies to large‐scale government‐run programmes can be challenging, with risks of changing the nature and quality of the interventions such that effectiveness is not sustained. In 1999, the Government of Madagascar introduced a nationwide, community‐based, growth‐monitoring and nutrition education programme, which was gradually scaled up throughout the country until 2011. Data from three nationally representative surveys, administered pre‐ and post‐programme implementation, in participating and non‐participating communities, were used to evaluate the effectiveness of the programme to reduce malnutrition in children under 5 after two phases of expansion (1999–2004 and 2004–2011). In our analyses, we compared “original” communities, who had initiated the programme during the first phase, and “new” communities, who initiated the programme during the second phase. “Original” communities demonstrated a significant effect on mean weight‐for‐age and on the prevalence of underweight by 2004; this effect was sustained at a reduced level through 2011. In contrast, “new” communities showed no benefits for any childhood nutritional outcomes. An explanation for these findings may be that community health workers in the “new” communities reported lower motivation and less use of key messages and materials than those in the “original” communities. Frontline workers reported increased workload and irregular pay across the board during the second phase of programme expansion. Our findings underscore the risk of losing effectiveness if programme quality is not maintained during scale‐up. Key factors, such as training and motivation of frontline workers, are important to address when bringing a programme to scale.
Integrating nutrition services into health care systems platforms: Where are we and where do we go from here
Authors: Pérez‐Escamilla Rafael , Engmann Cyril
Published: February 2019

Integrating maternal–child nutrition into health care services is a desirable but complex task that requires implementation research studies. This special supplement, entitled “How to Strengthen Nutrition into the Health Platform: Programmatic Evidence and Experience from Low‐ and Middle‐Income Countries” presents a collection of mixed‐methods research and case studies mostly conducted in sub‐Saharan Africa that help us gain a better understanding of the barriers and facilitators for this integration to happen. Collectively, the evidence confirms that integrating nutrition services as part of health care systems and other platforms is feasible, but for that to be successful, there is a need to address strong barriers related to all six key health care systems building blocks identified by the World Health Organization. These include financing, health information systems, health workforce, supplies and technology, governance, and service delivery. Moving forward, it is crucial that more robust implementation science research is conducted within the rough and tumble of real‐world programming to better understand how to best integrate and scale up nutrition services across health care systems and other platforms based on dynamic complex adaptive systems frameworks. This research can help better understand how the key health care systems building blocks need to interlock and communicate with each other to improve the policymakers' ability to integrate and scale up nutrition services in a more timely and cost‐effective way.
A biopsychosocial approach to processes and pathways in the development of overweight and obesity in childhood: Insights from developmental theory and research
Authors: Russell Catherine G. , Russell Alan
Published: February 2019

Childhood obesity has reached alarming proportions in many countries. There is consensus that both biological (especially genetic) and environmental (including psychosocial) factors contribute to weight gain and obesity in childhood. Research has identified extensive risk or predictive factors for childhood obesity from both of these domains. There is less consensus about the developmental processes or pathways showing how these risk factors lead to overweigh/obesity (OW/OB) in childhood. We outline a biopsychosocial process model of the development of OW/OB in childhood. The model and associated scholarship from developmental theory and research guide an analysis of research on OW/OB in childhood. The model incorporates biological factors such as genetic predispositions or susceptibility genes, temperament, and homeostatic and allostatic processes with the psychosocial and behavioral factors of parenting, parental feeding practices, child appetitive traits, food liking, food intakes, and energy expenditure. There is an emphasis on bidirectional and transactional processes linking child biology and behavior with psychosocial processes and environment. Insights from developmental theory and research include implications for conceptualization, measurement, research design, and possible multiple pathways to OW/OB. Understanding the developmental processes and pathways involved in childhood OW/OB should contribute to more targeted prevention and intervention strategies in childhood.
Regulation of a plant aquaporin by a Casparian strip membrane domain protein‐like
Authors: Champeyroux Chloé , Bellati Jorge , Barberon Marie , Rofidal Valérie , Maurel Christophe , Santoni Véronique
Published: February 2019

The absorption of soil water by roots allows plants to maintain their water status. At the endodermis, water transport can be affected by initial formation of a Casparian strip and further deposition of suberin lamellas and regulated by the function of aquaporins. Four Casparian strip membrane domain protein‐like (CASPL; CASPL1B1, CASPL1B2, CASPL1D1, and CASPL1D2) were previously shown to interact with PIP2;1. The present work shows that CASPL1B1, CASPL1B2, and CASPL1D2 are exclusively expressed in suberized endodermal cells, suggesting a cell‐specific role in suberization and/or water transport regulation. When compared with wild‐type plants, and by contrast to caspl1b1*caspl1b2 double loss of function, caspl1d1*caspl1d2 double mutants showed, in some control or NaCl stress experiments and not upon abscisic acid (ABA) treatment, a weak enlargement of the continuous suberization zone. None of the mutants showed root hydraulic conductivity (Lpr) phenotype, whether in control, NaCl, or ABA treatment conditions. The data suggest a slight negative role for CASPL1D1 and CASPL1D2 in suberization under control or salt stress conditions, with no major impact on whole root transport functions. At the molecular level, CASPL1B1 was able to physically interact with PIP2;1 and potentially could influence the regulation of aquaporins by acting on their phosphorylated form.
Environmental justice screening tools: Implications for nursing
Authors: Amiri Azita , Zhao Shuang
Published: February 2019

Environmental justice (EJ) means socially and economically disadvantaged communities and citizens are entitled to an equally clean environment and resources to enjoy. EJ communities are mostly located close to polluters such as Superfund sites, coal‐fired power plants and landfills and are more likely to be exposed to higher levels of environmental hazards than the U.S. population on average. It is often a difficult task to identify EJ communities and the environmental hazards in the communities without using specific EJ screening tools. Therefore, the goal of this manuscript is to introduce public health nurses to map‐based EJ screening tools. This will help public health nurses to identify EJ communities and take appropriate actions. Public Health Nurses can also use other relevant web sites, such as the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS) and Toxicology Data Network (TOXNET) as resources concerning potential health effects of pollutants. Using the provided tools in this paper, nurses should be able to identify EJ communities and be united to recognize barriers of EJ communities and become promoters for EJ advocacy in practice, leadership and education.
Differential effects of age on quality of sleep and depression in patients receiving maintenance haemodialysis
Authors: Lin Kuan‐Yu , Lin Yi‐Chun , Wang Hsiu‐Ho
Published: February 2019

Background

Poor quality of sleep and depression are common and highly associated with each other in patients on haemodialysis. We aimed to investigate whether they share common risk factors and how age may influence their development.

Methods

Cross‐sectional observation study on 120 haemodialysis patients with quality of sleep and depression assessed by Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and Taiwanese Depression Questionnaire (TDQ), respectively.

Results

The prevalence of poor quality of sleep and depression was 92.5% and 43.3%, respectively. PSQI scores were associated with age, gender, education and monthly income while TDQ scores were associated with low serum creatinine and albumin levels. Elderly patients at ages older than 65 had the highest average PSQI score (12.26 ± 4.35) than the young group at age 20–44 (8.25 ± 4.39) (P = 0.028) but the average TDQ scores were similar across three age groups. The proportion of those who had high PSQI scores was significantly higher in the elderly group (54.4%, P = 0.017) and the 44–65‐years group (51.9%, P = 0.028) than the young group (16.7%). The proportion of those who reported normal quality of sleep was much lower in the elderly group (0.0%) than the other two groups (25.0%, P < 0.001 and 11.7%, P < 0.01). The proportions of those who had different ranges of TDQ scores did not show such a pattern of strong age dependence.

Conclusions

Poor quality of sleep in haemodialysis patients is associated with socio‐economic factors while depression is more related to biochemistry indicators. A majority of older patients suffer very poor quality of sleep while depression appears equally severe and common across different age groups.
When groups help and when groups harm: Origins, developments, and future directions of the “Social Cure” perspective of group dynamics
Authors: Wakefield Juliet R.H. , Bowe Mhairi , Kellezi Blerina , McNamara Niamh , Stevenson Clifford
Published: February 2019

A substantial literature supports the important role that social group memberships play in enhancing health. While the processes through which group memberships constitute a “Social Cure” are becoming increasingly well defined, the mechanisms through which these groups contribute to vulnerability and act as a “Social Curse” are less understood. We present an overview of the Social Cure literature and then go beyond this to show how the processes underpinning the health benefits of group membership can also negatively affect individuals through their absence. First, we provide an overview of early Social Cure research. We then describe later research concerning the potential health benefits of identifying with multiple groups, before moving on to consider the “darker side” of the Social Cure by exploring how intra‐group dynamics can foster Curse processes. Finally, we synthesise evidence from both the Cure and Curse literatures to highlight the complex interplay between these phenomena and how they are influenced by both intra‐ and inter‐group processes. We conclude by considering areas we deem vital for future investigation within the discipline.
Instrumental and sensory methodologies to characterize the residual film of topical products applied to skin
Authors: Savary Géraldine , Gilbert Laura , Grisel Michel , Picard Céline
Published: February 2019

Background

The work is aimed at the development of a methodology to characterize the tactile properties of topical products during application. Specific attention was paid to the study of the residual properties left at the surface of the skin. This approach was interestingly used to better understand the formulation factors governing the skinfeel of topical preparations.

Materials and Methods

Cosmetic and pharmaceutical topical products were selected based on their various texture, galenic form (gel or emulsion), and composition (polymer used as texturing agent). Key texture attributes namely Firmness, Stickiness, Spreadability, and Amount of residue were objectively evaluated using sensory analysis. Additionally, texture analysis (compression test), rheology (flow test), and tribology (in vivo friction test) were carried out.

Results

Sensory evaluations highlighted a great diversity of tactile properties among products when applied to skin. For example, assessors perceived an important amount of residue left by emulsions whereas gels were not leaving any residue after application to the skin. These results were confirmed by in vivo tactile friction measurements with two distinct evolutions in time of the residual film properties.

Conclusion

The present investigation shows how the tactile properties of topical gels and emulsions are studied using complementary tests in order to understand and improve the skinfeel of topical preparations.
Anti‐N and anti‐Doa immunoglobulin G alloantibody–mediated delayed hemolytic transfusion reaction with hyperhemolysis in sickle cell disease treated with eculizumab and HBOC‐201: case report and review of the literature
Authors: Unnikrishnan Athira , Pelletier J. Peter R. , Bari Shahla , Zumberg Marc , Shahmohamadi Abbas , Spiess Bruce D. , Michael Mary Jane , Harris Neil , Harrell Danielle , Mandernach Molly W.
Published: February 2019

BACKGROUND

Delayed hemolytic transfusion reaction (DHTR) with hyperhemolysis is a potentially fatal complication resulting from alloimmunization that can cause severe hemolysis of both transfused and intrinsic red blood cells (RBCs). Patients with sickle cell disease often receive multiple RBC units during their lifetime and thus are likely to develop alloantibodies that increase the risk for DHTR. Treatment to decrease hemolysis includes intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG), steroids, eculizumab, rituximab, and plasmapheresis in addition to erythropoietin (EPO), intravenous (IV) iron, vitamin B12, and folate to support erythropoiesis. RBC transfusion is preferably avoided in DHTR due to an increased risk of exacerbating the hemolysis.

CASE REPORT

We report a rare case of anti‐N and anti‐Doa immunoglobulin (Ig)G alloantibody–mediated life‐threatening DHTR with hyperhemolysis in a patient with hemoglobin SS after RBC transfusion for acute chest syndrome who was successfully treated with eculizumab and HBOC‐201 (Hemopure) in addition to steroids, IVIG, EPO, IV iron, and vitamin B12. HBOC‐201 (Hemopure) was successfully used as a RBC alternative in this patient.

CONCLUSION

Anti‐N and anti‐Doa IgG alloantibodies can rarely cause severe life‐threatening DHTR with hyperhemolysis. HBOC‐201 (Hemopure) can be a lifesaving alternative in this scenario. Our report also supports the use of eculizumab in DHTR; however, prospective studies are needed to determine the appropriate dose and sequence of eculizumab administration.
Biology and management of the invasive weed Ageratina adenophora (Asteraceae): current state of knowledge and future research needs
Authors: Poudel A S , Jha P K , Shrestha B B , Muniappan R
Published: February 2019

Biological invasion is increasing worldwide and the management of invasive species is becoming an important priority for vegetation managers. Success of invasive species management depends on a thorough understanding of the biology of the organism in question and the effectiveness of current management efforts, in order to identify the best practices for management improvement. In this review, we synthesised current biological knowledge of a noxious invasive weed Ageratina adenophora to identify knowledge gaps and assessed management efforts to identify best practices. Finally, we proposed some priority areas for future research to fill knowledge gaps and improve management. Our analysis showed that A. adenophora has already invaded 40 countries, mainly in Asia, Oceania, Africa and Europe. Phenotypic plasticity, allelopathic interference and invasion‐mediated changes in the soil microbial community are the proposed mechanisms that facilitate rapid spread of this weed. However, allelopathy as a mechanism of invasion success of this weed has not been supported by ecologically meaningful experiments. Though mechanical, chemical and biological control measures have been used, their success remains limited and the weed continues to spread in new regions. Among seven biological control agents examined to date, gall fly (Procecidochares utilis) and leaf spot fungus (Passalora ageratinae) have been effective in limited areas to suppress growth of this weed. Some perennial native grasses (e.g. Setaria sphacellata and Lolium perenne) have shown potential to competitively suppress A. adenophora. In conclusion, understanding the invasion mechanisms, exploring further to identify effective biological control agents, combined with approaches of ecological restoration, could help in the management of this weed.
Involvement of the Na+,K+‐ATPase isoforms in control of cerebral perfusion
Authors: Staehr Christian , Rajanathan Rajkumar , Matchkov Vladimir V.
Published: February 2019

New Findings

What is the topic of this review?

In this review, we consider the role of the Na+,K+‐ATPase in cerebrovascular function and how it might be changed in familial hemiplegic migraine type 2 (FHM2). The primary focus is involvement of the Na+,K+‐ATPase isoforms in regulation of cerebrovascular tone.

What advances does it highlight?

In this review, we discuss three overall distinct mechanisms whereby the Na+,K+‐ATPase might be capable of regulating cerebrovascular tone. Furthermore, we discuss how changes in the Na+,K+‐ATPase in cerebral arteries might affect brain perfusion and thereby be involved in the pathology of FHM2.

Familial hemiplegic migraine type 2 (FHM2) has been characterized by biphasic changes in cerebral blood flow during a migraine attack, with initial hypoperfusion followed by abnormal hyperperfusion of the affected hemisphere. We suggested that FHM2‐associated loss‐of‐function mutation(s) in the Na+,K+‐ATPase α2 isoform might be responsible for these biphasic changes in several ways. We found that reduced expression of the α2 isoform leads to sensitization of the contractile machinery to [Ca2+]i via Src kinase‐dependent signal transduction. This change in sensitivity might be the underlying mechanism for both abnormally potentiated vasoconstriction and exaggerated vasorelaxation. Moreover, the functional significance of the Na+,K+‐ATPase α2 isoform in astrocytes provides for the possibility of elevated extracellular potassium signalling from astrocytic endfeet to the vascular wall in neurovascular coupling.