bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In vitro water resistance testing using SPF simulation based on spectroscopic analysis of rinsed sunscreens
Authors: Sohn M. , Malburet C. , Caliskan G. , Büchse A. , Grumelard J. , Chambert M. , Herzog B.
Published: March 2018

Objective

Water resistance retention (WRR) is the third performance attribute of sunscreens. Today, the standardized method for testing WRR is performed in vivo. For screening purposes, an in vitro method is highly preferable. Up to now, however, available methods have failed in accurately predicting in vivo WRR. In this study, we examine a novel in vitro approach aimed at enhancing in vivo prediction of WRR.

Methods

We investigated two approaches, including a traditional procedure referred to as the ‘plate method’, which involves measuring in vitro sun‐protection factor (SPF) before and after water immersion, and a new approach termed the ‘solution method’. The latter employed a computational method to calculate the SPF using UV transmittance measurements of a sunscreen solution, obtained by rinsing the substrate without water immersion and with water immersion. It also had a model function for describing film irregularity. The aim was to avoid the effect of substrate‐to‐product affinity on the film distribution, which impacts the measured absolute value of the in vitro SPF occurring in the conventional approach. For both methodologies, we assessed two substrates for the sunscreen application based on different polymers, the widely used polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) and the ethylene methacrylate acid copolymer (EMA).

Results

The agreement between in vivo and in vitro WRR values obtained from each of the four test conditions was analysed using different sunscreens. No correlation was found between in vivo and in vitro WRR using the plate method, independently of the plate type. In contrast, the solution method, using EMA plates, revealed a significant correlation between in vivo and in vitro results, with an especially high correlation for in vivo non‐water‐resistant sunscreens. The results of two operators were comparable. The solution method was unsuitable for PMMA plates.

Conclusion

Despite the small discrepancy remaining between WRR values obtained from the in vitro solution method and in vivo method, which itself shows variability in results, this work provided a new insight into the in vitro testing of water resistance of sunscreens.
The in vitro antimicrobial evaluation of commercial essential oils and their combinations against acne
Authors: Orchard A. , van Vuuren S. F. , Viljoen A.M , Kamatou G.
Published: March 2018

Objective

The study investigated the efficacy of commercial essential oil combinations against the two pathogens responsible for acne with the aim to identify synergy and favourable oils to possibly use in a blend.

Materials and Methods

Antimicrobial activity was assessed using the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) assay against Staphylococcus epidermidis (ATCC 2223) and Propionibacterium acnes (ATCC 11827), and the fractional inhibitory concentration index (ΣFIC) was calculated. Combinations displaying synergistic interactions were further investigated at varied ratios and the results plotted on isobolograms.

Results

From the 408 combinations investigated, 167 combinations were identified as displaying noteworthy antimicrobial activity (MIC value ≤1.00 mg mL−1). Thirteen synergistic interactions were observed against S. epidermidis, and three synergistic combinations were observed against P. acnes. It was found that not one of the synergistic interactions identified were based on the combinations recommended in the layman's aroma‐therapeutic literature. Synergy was evident rather from leads based on antimicrobial activity from previous studies, thus emphasizing the importance of scientific validation. Leptospermum scoparium J.R.Forst. and G.Forst (manuka) was the essential oil mostly involved in synergistic interactions (four) against S. epidermidis. Cananga odorata (Lam.) Hook.f. and Thomson (ylang ylang) essential oil was also frequently involved in synergy where synergistic interactions could be observed against both pathogens. The combination with the lowest MIC value against both acne pathogens was Vetiveria zizanioides Stapf (vetiver) with Cinnamomum verum J.Presl (cinnamon bark) (MIC values 0.19–0.25 mg mL−1). Pogostemon patchouli Benth. (patchouli), V. zizanioides, C. verum and Santalum spp. (sandalwood) could be identified as the oils that contributed the most noteworthy antimicrobial activity towards the combinations. The different chemotypes of the essential oils used in the combinations predominantly resulted in similar antimicrobial activity.

Conclusions

The investigated essential oil combinations resulted in at least 50% of the combinations displaying noteworthy antimicrobial activity. Most of the synergistic interactions do not necessarily correspond to the recommended layman's aroma‐therapeutic literature, which highlights a need for scientific validation of essential oil antimicrobial activity. No antagonism was observed.
New thermomechanically treated NiTi alloys – a review
Authors: Zupanc J. , Vahdat‐Pajouh N. , Schäfer E.
Published: March 2018

In the past 10 years, several proprietary processing procedures for nickel titanium (NiTi) alloy were developed to improve the mechanical properties of NiTi endodontic instruments. Beside specific thermal and mechanical treatments, manufacturers introduced several machining procedures (e.g. twisting, electrical discharge machining), as well as techniques for final surface finishing. NiTi alloys used for endodontic instruments can be subdivided into instruments that mainly contain the austenite phase (austenitic: conventional NiTi, M‐Wire, R‐Phase) and those mainly containing the martensite phase (martensitic: CM Wire, Gold and Blue heat‐treated NiTi). Thermomechanically treated NiTi alloys have been reported to be more flexible with improved cyclic fatigue resistance and greater angle of deflection at failure when compared to conventional NiTi. These enhanced properties may be attributed to a modified phase composition containing varying amounts of R‐phase and martensite. Endodontic instruments made of austenitic alloys possess superelastic properties because of stress‐induced martensite transformation and consequently tend to spring‐back to their original form after deformation. In contrast, the martensitic instruments can easily be deformed due to the reorientation of the martensite variants and show a shape memory effect when heated. The use of martensitic alloy results in more flexible instruments, with an increased cyclic fatigue resistance compared with austenitic alloy.
Synthesis and characterization of silica‐coated superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles and interaction with pancreatic cancer cells
Authors: Multari Cristina , Miola Marta , Ferraris Sara , Movia Dania , Žužek Rožman Kristina , Kostevšek Nina , Follenzi Antonia , Verné Enrica , Prina‐Mello Adriele
Published: March 2018

The aim of the study is to investigate the relationship between the physico‐chemical properties of superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs) and their cytotoxicity profile in light of their potential biomedical application as nanocarriers for pancreatic cancer treatment. Two types of SPIONs were tested: magnetite nanoparticles (Fe3O4 NPs) and silica‐coated magnetite nanoparticles (SiO2‐Fe3O4 NPs). The physico‐chemical properties of the 2 SPIONs were characterized by means of Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS), Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), Energy Dispersive X‐ray Spectrometry (EDS), and Selected Area Electron Diffraction (SAED). Their magnetic properties were quantified as magnetization saturation (Ms) and Remanence. The colloidal stability was investigated by Isoelectric Point Measurements and sedimentation tests. Finally, in vitro characterizations were performed to quantify the half maximal lethal concentration (LC50), by means of High Content Screening Analysis (HCSA), Flow cytometry (FC), and Laser Scanning Confocal Microscopy (LSCM). The obtained NPs present a spherical shape and a dimension between 10 and 20 nm, a superparamagnetic behavior and surface charge in agreement with their surface chemistry. The in vitro tests demonstrate that both NPs induce similar levels of cytotoxicity in a PANC‐1 cell model and were internalized, with SiO2‐Fe3O4 NPs associated to a slightly higher cellular internalization, probably due to their higher dispersability.
A comparative study on Cf/PyC/SiC minicomposites prepared via CVI process for hypersonic engine application
Authors: Krishnan Sreejith , Vijay Vipin , Siva Subramania , Painuly Anil , Naithani Neeraj , Devasia Renjith
Published: March 2018

Carbon fiber reinforced silicon carbide (SiC) minicomposites were prepared from three variants of commercially available carbon fibers, viz., T300‐3K, T300J‐3K, and T300‐6K. The SiC matrix infiltration was done via chemical vapor infiltration process using methyltrichlorosilane as the precursor. Minicomposites were characterized for the composition and morphology of the matrix material deposited. It was found that the matrix contains 2H‐SiC along with the major phase 3C‐SiC. Cyclic tensile tests were carried out on the composites to understand the damage mechanism and load bearing characteristics under cyclic loading conditions. The dependence of peak and residual strains on the fiber volume fraction was studied. Oxidation of the CMCs in air at 1500°C was studied and the result was explained based on a five part process.
Positive effect of wrapping poly caprolactone/polyethylene glycol fibrous films on the mechanical properties of 45S5 bioactive glass scaffolds
Authors: Shi Quan , Li Zhi‐Yong , Liverani Liliana , Roether Judith , Chen Qiang , Boccaccini Aldo R.
Published: March 2018

45S5 bioactive glass (BG) scaffolds show great potential in bone tissue engineering due to their superior osteoinductivity and osteoconductivity. However, such scaffolds generally possess poor mechanical properties. Here, inspired by the reinforcing principle of confined concrete elements in civil engineering, poly caprolactone (PCL)/polyethylene glycol (PEG) film‐wrapped 45S5 BG scaffolds were prepared by gluing highly porous foam–replicated BG scaffolds and electrospun PCL/PEG films together with a PCL layer. The results showed that the compressive strength of the PCL/PEG film‐wrapped scaffolds was greatly improved, compared to that of unwrapped BG scaffolds. Moreover, the PCL/PEG film exhibited hydrophilicity, responsible for improved cell activity with respect to the hydrophobic PCL one. Thus, the present work introduces a convenient approach to improve the mechanical properties of highly porous bioceramic scaffolds, and is relevant for future robust scaffold design.
Physicochemical properties of ready‐to‐eat extruded nixtamalized maize‐based snacks enriched with grasshopper
Authors: Cuj‐Laines Rubí , Hernández‐Santos Betsabé , Reyes‐Jaquez Damian , Delgado‐Licon Efren , Juárez‐Barrientos José M. , Rodríguez‐Miranda Jesús
Published: March 2018

The aim of this research was to prepare an extruded snack based on nixtamalized maize flour (Zea mays L.) (NMF) enriched with grasshopper meal (Sphenarium purpurascens Ch.) (GM) using a single screw extruder with a compression screw ratio of 3:1. A central experimental design comprising three independent variables, namely, extrusion temperature (T = 120–180 °C), feed moisture content (FMC = 18–22 g/100 g) and the grasshopper meal proportion (GMP = 0–40 g/100 g), was used. Increasing T decreased (P < 0.05) the expansion index (EI), bulk density (BD) and hardness (H). Increasing the FMC increased (P < 0.05) the EI. Increasing the GMP decreased (P < 0.05) the EI, H and water absorption index (WAI) and increased (P < 0.05) the BD and total colour difference (ΔE). The treatments that resulted in better general acceptability were those that contained a lower GMP. An extruded snack acceptable to the consumer can be obtained from a blend of NMF and GM, and up to 8.11 g/100 g of GM can be incorporated without affecting the physicochemical properties and acceptance of the snack.
Distribution of IFITM3 polymorphism (dbSNP: rs12252) in mestizo populations in four states of Mexico
Authors: López‐Jiménez J. J. , Peña‐Iñiguez D. I. , Fletes‐Rayas A. L. , Flores‐Martínez S. E. , Sánchez‐Corona J. , Rosales‐Gomez R. C. , Montoya‐Fuentes H.
Published: March 2018

Interferon‐inducible transmembrane protein 3 (IFITM3) participates in the defense against viral infections. This study identified and compared the frequency of the IFITM3 rs12252 polymorphism in 410 individuals in western Mexico. The western Mexican allelic frequencies (frequency of the “C” allele = 0.18) differ from some American, East Asian and European populations.
Simultaneous detection of ABL1 mutation and IKZF1 deletion in Philadelphia chromosome‐positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia using a customized target enrichment system panel
Authors: Aoe M. , Ishida H. , Matsubara T. , Karakawa S. , Kawaguchi H. , Fujiwara K. , Kanamitsu K. , Washio K. , Okada K. , Shibakura M. , Shimada A.
Published: March 2018

Introduction

Recent clinical outcomes of pediatric Philadelphia chromosome‐positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia (Ph+ALL) vastly improved owing to tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI). However, the genetic status would be different in each case with ABL1 gene mutation or copy number variants (CNVs) such as IKZF1 deletion. In particular, the TKI resistant clone with ABL1 kinase mutation remains problematic. The comprehensive assessment of genetic status including mutation, insertion and deletion (indel) and CNVs is necessary.

Methods

We evaluated a next‐generation sequencing (NGS)‐based customized HaloPlex target enrichment system panel to simultaneously detect coding mutations, indel and CNVs. We analysed approximately 160 known genes associated with hematological disorders in 5 pediatric Ph+ALL patients.

Results

Mono‐allelic IKZF1 deletions were found in 4 patients at diagnosis. Furthermore, the mono‐allelic deletions were found in exons of RB1, EBF1, PAX5 and ETV6 genes. Bi‐allelic deletions were detected in CDKN2A and CDKN2B genes in 1 patient. ABL1 mutation was also detected in 1 patient at relapse. These results were almost comparable with the results of the multiplex ligation‐dependent probe amplification (MLPA) method or Sanger sequence.

Conclusion

Next‐generation sequencing‐based custom HaloPlex target enrichment system panel allows us to detect the coding mutations, indel, and CNVs in pediatric Ph+ALL simultaneously, and its results seem comparable with those of other methods.
Early diagnosis of infection occurs in burned patients and verification in vitro
Authors: Zhang M. , Yang L. , Du G. , Duan S. , Liu D. , Gao X. , Li D.
Published: March 2018

Objective

To explore the trend of CD64+ neutrophils being present in the peripheral blood of patients with burns and verification in vitro.

Method

We isolated and purified CD64+ neutrophils from healthy people, stimulated cells with inactivated Staphylococcus aureus in vitro to make them proliferate and analyzed them with Modfit 2 analysis software. Patients with burns were divided into two groups, depending on whether there was a complicated infection or not, and 35 healthy participants were enrolled as blank group. WBC and CD64+ neutrophil counts were detected and then analyzed the specificity and sensitivity according to the ROC curve.

Results

The proliferation index of the CD64+ cells in the experimental wells was significantly higher than that in the control wells (P < .05). The CD64+ cell counts in the peripheral blood of patients in the infection group were significantly higher than patients without infection, but also higher than the healthy people (P < .05). The sensitivity and specificity of CD64+ cellular diagnosis for burn infection were 94.2% and 76.8%, respectively, according to the ROC curve, which were significantly better than those of the WBCs.

Conclusion

CD64+ cells in the peripheral blood of patients with burns complicated by infection increased significantly, and thus, it can be regarded as an early diagnostic indicator of burns with a concurrent infection.
Clinician researcher career pathway for registered nurses and midwives: A proposal
Authors: Smith Sheree , Gullick Janice , Ballard Jacqueline , Perry Lin
Published: March 2018

Aim

To consider clinician researcher career frameworks and propose a new pathway, integrating university and health service components to support research career progression within nursing and midwifery practice.

Background

Hospitals with research‐active clinicians report fewer adverse events and better patient outcomes. Nursing clinician researcher career development is therefore an international priority, yet positions and expectations associated with this are not always well articulated, with nurses and midwives challenged to accommodate research and clinical careers.

Design

This discussion paper describes nurse/midwife clinician researcher career frameworks and a new pathway that aligns academic and nursing role descriptions.

Data sources

The new framework was informed by a brief literature search for international framework documents, three Australian state‐based Nurses and Midwives Awards: the Australian Qualifications Framework, publically available University Academic (Research) Award schedules and academic staff descriptions, and state health department and health services publications.

Implications for nursing

The implementation of research‐based practice is a key element of nursing and midwifery roles and “advanced practice” position descriptions have well‐defined research expectations. This paper considers structures to support their achievement.

Conclusion

This paper provides a blueprint for clinician researcher career development. It elevates the research domain as an equal alongside clinical, managerial and educational clinical career development.
Risk factors for multidrug‐resistant Gram‐negative bacteria infection in intensive care units: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Ang Hui , Sun Xuan
Published: March 2018

Aims

To identify the risk factors for multidrug‐resistant Gram‐negative bacteria systematically and provide suggestions and an evidence‐base for clinical measures.

Background

With the increase in the social population, changes in human behaviour and ecosystems, as well as economic development, bacteria have gradually produced drug resistance genes. These have swept through intensive care units causing high mortality.

Methods

Relevant literature which included case‐control and cohort studies published from January 1999 to March 2017 were searched in the Cochrane Library, PubMed, Web of Science, and Medline. Meta‐analysis was performed by using StataSE version 12.0 software.

Results

Eighteen studies of 235 publications were eligible. Male gender (OR 1.40, 95%CI 1.09, 1.80), having an operative procedure (OR 1.31, 95%CI 1.10, 1.56), a central venous catheter (OR 1.22, 95%CI 1.01, 1.48), mechanical ventilation (OR 1.25, 95%CI 1.07, 1.46), previous antibiotic therapy (OR 1.66, 95%CI 1.41, 1.96), length of ICU stay (weighted mean difference 8.18, 95%CI 0.27, 16.10), and types of health‐associated infections were the identified risk factors for multidrug‐resistant Gram‐negative bacterial infection in intensive care units; moreover, diabetes mellitus was not.

Conclusion

Six risk factors were associated with multidrug‐resistant Gram‐negative bacterial infection in intensive care units. Antimicrobial stewardship, infection control, and medical staff prevention care are needed.
The English system for ensuring health care and health monitoring of looked after children
Authors: Simkiss Doug , Jainer Renu
Published: March 2018

The article describes the history of the current system of health care and monitoring for looked after children in England, the reasons why looked after children have a dedicated service and the details of current provision. National guidance from the Department of Health and Department for Education, the Chief Medical Officer for England, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence and the Royal College of Paediatrics is explained. We outline some strengths and limitations of the current system. There are many similarities with the system in Wales, Scotland and North Ireland, but different legislative frameworks and some important differences in process, so this article focuses specifically on the system in England.
The immunomodulatory role of tumor‐derived extracellular vesicles in colorectal cancer
Authors: Manning Stephanie , Danielson Kirsty M
Published: March 2018

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most prevalent cancers worldwide with rising mortality rates predicted in the coming decades. In light of this, there is a continued need for improvement in our understanding of CRC biology and the development of novel treatment options. Tumor‐derived extracellular vesicles (tEVs) have emerged as both novel cancer biomarkers and functional mediators of carcinogenesis. tEVs are released by tumor cells in abundance and play an important role in mediating tumor cell—immune cell interactions in the tumor microenvironment. Furthermore, tEVs are released into the circulation in humans where they could also interact with circulating immune cells. This review aims to describe CRC‐specific tEVs and what is currently known about their role in immunomodulation. In particular, we discuss the ability of CRC‐derived tEVs to affect monocyte differentiation into macrophages and dendritic cells, and their effects on T‐cell viability and activity. Finally, the potential for tEVs in the development of immunotherapies will be discussed.
Looking for the Best and Brightest? Deservingness Regimes in Italian Labour Migration Management
Authors: Bonizzoni Paola
Published: March 2018

It is often maintained that contemporary foreign labour recruitment programs have taken an increasingly selective stance and that skills are increasingly crucial in granting migrants easier access and stronger welfare and residency rights in receiving countries. The paper provides a retrospective account of the evolution of Italian labour migration management, paying attention to the changing selection criteria reflected in some of its “front, back and side doors”. It will be shown that Italian labour migration management is increasingly embracing a bifurcated regime of deservingness. Despite some recent tentative signs of change towards an increased evaluation of high skills as a selection principle embedded into a competitiveness‐driven frame, over the last decades labour migration management has been largely dominated by the recruitment of a low‐skilled workforce. The paper discusses the emergence of a specific construction migrants’ deservingness placing Italy in a peculiar position in a European context.
Deficient arginase II expression without alteration in arginase I expression attenuated experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis in mice
Authors: Choudry Mariam , Tang Xiaolei , Santorian Tiffany , Wasnik Samiksha , Xiao Jidong , Xing Weirong , Lau Kin‐Hing William , Mohan Subburaman , Baylink David J. , Qin Xuezhong
Published: March 2018

In the past there have been a multitude of studies that ardently support the role of arginase II (Arg II) in vascular and endothelial disorders; however, the regulation and function of Arg II in autoimmune diseases has thus far remained unclear. Here we report that a global Arg II null mutation in mice suppressed experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), an animal model of multiple sclerosis. During EAE, both Arg I and Arg II were induced in spinal cords, but only Arg II was induced in spleens and splenic dendritic cells (DCs). DC activation by lipopolysaccharide (LPS), CD40L or TLR8 agonist significantly enhanced Arg II expression without affecting Arg I expression. Conversely, DC differentiating cytokines [IL‐4 and granulocyte macrophage‐colony‐stimulating factor (GM‐CSF)] yielded opposite effects. In addition, Arg I and Arg II were regulated differentially during Th1 and Th17 cell polarization. Arg II deficiency in mice delayed EAE onset, ameliorated clinical symptoms and reduced myelin loss, accompanied by a remarkable reduction in the EAE‐induced spinal cord expression of Th17 cell markers (IL‐17 and RORγt). The abundance of Th17 cells and IL‐23+ cells in relevant draining lymph nodes was significantly reduced in Arg II knockout mice. In activated DCs, Arg II deficiency significantly suppressed the expression of Th17‐differentiating cytokines IL‐23 and IL‐6. Interestingly, Arg II deficiency did not lead to any compensatory increase in Arg I expression in vivo and in vitro. In conclusion, Arg II was identified as a factor promoting EAE likely via an Arg I‐independent mechanism. Arg II may promote EAE by enhancing DC production of Th17‐differentiating cytokines. Specific inhibition of Arg II could be a potential therapy for multiple sclerosis.
Understanding the current sexual health service provision for mental health consumers by nurses in mental health settings: Findings from a Survey in Australia and England
Authors: Quinn Chris , Platania‐Phung Chris , Bale Christopher , Happell Brenda , Hughes Elizabeth
Published: March 2018

Nurses in mental health settings avoid talking to consumers about sexual health concerns. It is unclear whether this avoidance prevents the provision of sexual healthcare. The present study gathered information about how mental health nurses respond to sexual health issues within their routine practice, what issues they address, and their view on their role in promoting sexual health for consumers. A cross‐sectional study using an electronic survey questionnaire, originally generated from a previous study in the united kingdom, was employed. The study occurred in four National Health Service Trusts in England and a national call for participants in Australia. Participants were nurse clinicians (n = 303) who self‐selected by completing surveys available via email and newsletters containing links to the survey. The results demonstrated that mental health nurses do not routinely include sexual health in their practice and are poorly prepared in knowing what to do with a sexual health issue, and what services to assist consumers to use. In conclusion, it has been well established in the literature that mental health consumers experience high sexual health needs that potentially impact on health and recovery. Mental health nurses are ideally placed to promote sexual health and refer consumers to sexual health and family planning services. Training to improve the confidence and responsiveness of mental health nurses to sexual health is an urgent need.
Intercountry master's degree in nursing: policy implications for the Mozambican health system
Authors: Bruce J.C. , Schmollgruber S. , Baumann J.
Published: March 2018

Purpose

Within an overarching evaluation framework, this study explored the experiences of course participants and administrators of an intercountry master's degree in nursing between South Africa and Mozambique. The lessons learnt were used to inform nursing and health policy for the Mozambican health system.

Methods

Kirkpatrick's four levels of training evaluation and a results‐oriented approach to capacity change were integrated to form a hybrid evaluation framework to capture information about course implementation and the context/environment within which it was delivered. The study used quantitative and qualitative methods including a self‐administered survey of course participants, document review, in‐depth, semi‐structured interviews with course administrators and two focus group discussions with course participants.

Findings

Participants enrolled in the course primarily to gain new knowledge and to improve health outcomes; course participants and administrators responded positively to the course design, course implementation and the quality of teaching. Knowledge and skills gained help to build graduates’ confidence and boost their attitude towards nursing. Paradoxically, graduates felt powerless to transfer knowledge and effect change in practice.

Conclusion

This collaborative, capacity development project produced postgraduate nurses in two areas of specialization, namely, critical care and trauma nursing and maternal and neonatal health. While course participants gained significant benefits in new skills and knowledge and a higher degree qualification, the rewards available to them in the public health system remain unclear.

Implications for nursing and health policy

Lessons learnt may serve to influence policy decisions about the role of the Ministry of Health and other stakeholders in sustaining the output and quality of postgraduate nurses for the Mozambican health system. A strategic approach informed by multilevel policies at government, organizational and managerial levels should be adopted to systematically minimize and remove barriers to the transfer and utilization of knowledge and skills in the workplace.
Community health needs assessment: a nurses’ global health project in Vietnam
Authors: Cho S. , Lee H. , Yoon S. , Kim Y. , Levin P.F. , Kim E.
Published: March 2018

Background

Global health has been directed to providing solutions to various health issues cross‐nations, and nurses have received wide recognition as a key health workforce to reduce health disparities globally. Nurses involved in global health research are required to implement evidence‐based global nursing practices based on the assessments of local health needs.

Aim

To assess health needs and to suggest future interventions in rural communities of Vietnam.

Methods

A multifaceted rapid participatory appraisal with information pyramid was used applying mixed methods from six sources: existing record review, surveys of community residents, surveys of healthcare providers, focus group discussions with community leaders, informal discussions with governmental health administrators and observations of community health station (CHS) facilities.

Results

The majority used the CHSs as primary health facilities with high satisfaction for services currently provided. However, there were needs for the stations to provide more comprehensive services including chronic diseases, and for healthcare providers to improve their competences. Community leaders showed high interest in health information for chronic diseases and strong commitment to involvement in the activities for health of their communities. The findings suggest future interventions in the areas of the enhancement of CHS’ functions, human resources and the self‐care capacity of community residents.

Conclusion and policy implications

The rapid participatory appraisal approach emphasizing community participation and partnership was a useful tool to compile accurate information about the current needs of the community on health, the preparedness of healthcare services to meet community's demands and about community capacity. This process is fundamental to nurses, who initiate global health projects in resource‐limited international countries, to generate evidences regarding practice, research and policy for taking responsibilities in promoting the sustainable development goals.
Can Mutual Fund Investors Distinguish Good from Bad Managers?
Authors: Dyakov Teodor , Verbeek Marno
Published: March 2018

Mutual fund flows respond significantly to the return gap, which captures information about unobserved actions of mutual funds and predicts future performance. The sensitivity of fund flows to the return gap is: (i) strong and positive; (ii) increasing with investor sophistication; (iii) highly nonlinear; and (iv) decreasing with the informativeness of past fund returns. On average, the response of investors to the return gap enhances their performance. Our findings suggest there is a sophisticated mass of investors who can distinguish good from bad managers using information that may not be directly inferred from standard performance indicators.
The effect of role conflict on self‐disclosure in social network sites: An integrated perspective of boundary regulation and dual process model
Authors: Liu Zilong , Wang Xuequn , Min Qingfei , Li Wenli
Published: March 2018

As people increasingly integrate social network sites (SNSs) into their daily lives, their social connections on SNSs become more diverse, including their friends, co‐workers, and relatives. In such a context, users may receive different role expectations from their various social circles and experience role conflict in their usage of SNSs. Furthermore, previous literature suggests that people may not always make privacy‐related decisions through effortful and deliberate information processing. Drawing on the perspective of boundary regulation and dual process theories, this study clarifies the consequences of role conflict on SNSs. A theoretical model is developed to examine the effect of role conflict regarding privacy risk and perceived control, which, in turn, impact self‐disclosure behaviour, as well as how this process is moderated by high‐ versus low‐effort processing. The results of 4 experiments provide strong support for our model. The implications for theory and practice are discussed.
MoS2 nanosheet/ZnO nanowire hybrid nanostructures for photoelectrochemical water splitting
Authors: Li Hongxia , Dong Wei , Zhang Jun , Xi Junhua , Du Gang , Ji Zhenguo
Published: March 2018

As an efficient cocatalyst, the 2D MoS2 is thought to be a promising substitute to noble metals in the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). In the past few years, single and few‐layer MoS2 nanosheets have attracted a wide range of concerns for HERs. In this paper, single crystalline ZnO nanowires and MoS2 nanosheets are fabricated to form MoS2 nanosheet/ZnO nanowire hybrid nanostructure to enhance the hydrogen photogeneration. The results show that the hybridization of ZnO with moderate MoS2 loading could enhance the PEC activity by producing more electrons and holes and reducing their recombination. The synthesis of MoS2/ZnO composites proposed an effective way to build low cost and highly active HER catalysts. Moreover, the study on MoS2/ZnO composites sheds light to the deep insight into the mechanism of photoelectrocatalytic HERs.
Synthesis and properties of conductive B4C ceramic composites with TiB2 grain network
Authors: Ren Donglou , Deng Qihuang , Wang Ji , Yang Jisen , Li Youbing , Shao Junqi , Li Mian , Zhou Jie , Ran Songlin , Du Shiyu , Huang Qing
Published: March 2018

High electrical resistance and low fracture toughness of B4C ceramics are 2 of the primary challenges for further machining of B4C ceramics. This report illustrates that these 2 challenges can be overcome simultaneously using core‐shell B4C‐TiB2&TiC powder composites, which were prepared by molten‐salt method using B4C (10 ± 0.6 μm) and Ti powders as raw materials without co‐ball milling. Finally, the near completely dense (98%) B4C‐TiB2 interlayer ceramic composites were successfully fabricated by subsequent pulsed electric current sintering (PECS). The uniform conductive coating on the surface of B4C particles improved the mass transport by electro‐migration in PECS and thus enhanced the sinterability of the composites at a comparatively low temperature of 1700°C. The mechanical, electrical and thermal properties of the ceramic composites were investigated. The interconnected conductive TiB2 phase at the grain boundary of B4C significantly improved the properties of B4C‐TiB2 ceramic composites: in the case of B4C‐29.8 vol% TiB2 composite, the fracture toughness of 4.38 MPa·m1/2, the electrical conductivity of 4.06 × 105 S/m, and a high thermal conductivity of 33 W/mK were achieved.
Piezoelectric properties of (Na0.5K0.5)(Nb1‐xSbx)O3‐SrTiO3 ceramics with tetragonal‐pseudocubic PPB structure
Authors: Kim Dae‐Hyeon , Lee Tae‐Gon , Cho Sung‐Hoon , Lee Ku‐Tak , Lee Tae‐Ho , Hong Youn‐Woo , Hong Chang‐Hyo , Kim Jeong‐Seog , Nahm Sahn
Published: March 2018

CuO‐added 0.96(Na0.5K0.5)(Nb1‐xSbx)O3‐0.04SrTiO3 ceramics sintered at the low temperature of 960°C for 10 hours showed dense microstructures and high relative densities. The specimens with 0.0 ≤  x ≤ 0.04 had orthorhombic‐tetragonal polymorphic phase boundary (PPB) structure. Tetragonal‐pseudocubic PPB structure was observed in specimens with 0.05 ≤  x ≤ 0.07, while the specimen with x = 0.08 has a pseudocubic structure. The structural variation in the specimens is explained by the decreases in the orthorhombic‐tetragonal transition temperature and Curie temperature with the addition of Sb5+ ions. The specimens with 0.05 ≤  x ≤ 0.07, which have tetragonal‐pseudocubic PPB structure, had large electric field‐induced strains of 0.14%‐0.016%. Moreover, these specimens also showed increased d33 values between 280 pC/N and 358 pC/N. In particular, the specimen with x = 0.055 showed particularly enhanced piezoelectric properties: d33 of 358 pC/N, kp of 0.45, and the electric field‐induced strain of 0.16% at 4.5 kV/mm.
Silicon nitridation mechanism in reaction‐bonded Si3N4–SiC and Si3N4‐bonded ferrosilicon nitride
Authors: Long Menglong , Li Yong , Jin Xiuming , Yao Guisheng , Sun Jialin , Kumar Ramachandran V.
Published: March 2018

Reaction‐bonded Si3N4–SiC and Si3N4‐bonded ferrosilicon nitride, with Si powder, SiC particles and Fe3Si–Si3N4 particles as raw materials, respectively, are prepared in flame‐isolation nitridation shuttle kiln with flowing N2 at 1723K. There is columnar β‐Si3N4 in both Si3N4–SiC and Si3N4‐bonded ferrosilicon nitride. However, fibrous α‐Si3N4 is only observed in Si3N4–SiC and Si3N4‐bonded ferrosilicon nitride contains much more Si2N2O than Si3N4–SiC. By analyzing the oxidation thermodynamics of Si and Si3N4, it is known that in the process of producing Si3N4–SiC, Si is oxidized first to gaseous SiO and fibrous α‐Si3N4 is generated with SiO and N2. The existence of SiO is the reason of low silicon nitridation rate. But in the process of producing Si3N4‐bonded ferrosilicon nitride, Si3N4 is easier to be oxidized than Si and Si2N2O is generated on the surface of Si3N4 hexagonal prisms in ferrosilicon nitride particles. Meanwhile, Si in raw materials forms new ferrosilicon alloys with Fe3Si, which decreases the temperature of liquid appearance and blocks some open pores in the samples, which stops the matter loss of nitridation. Liquid ferrosilicon alloys favors β‐Si3N4 generation from Si direct nitridation and fibrous α‐Si3N4 transformation, which used to exist in ferrosilicon nitride raw materials.
Thermal history driven molecular structure transitions in alumino‐borosilicate glass
Authors: Baek Ji‐Yeon , Shin Seung‐Ho , Kim Seon‐Hyo , Cho Jung‐Wook
Published: March 2018

The glass network structure governs various thermos‐physical properties such as viscosity, thermal, and electrical conductivities, and crystallization kinetics. We investigated the effect of temperature on structural changes in a Na2O‐CaO‐Al2O3‐SiO2‐B2O3 glass system using 27Al MAS NMR spectroscopy. Around the glass transition temperature, most of aluminate structures exist as AlO4, acting as a glass former. When the temperature is above the melt crystallization temperature, the AlO4 structure is drastically decreased and glass structures are mainly composed of AlO5 and AlO6, acting as glass modifiers. Thermodynamic assessment based on Gibbs energy minimization was used to confirm the dependency of aluminate structure's amphoteric characteristic on temperature by calculating the site fraction of aluminate molecular structures at different temperatures. Temperature‐induced aluminate structural variation can also influence silicate and borate structural changes, which have been confirmed by the 29Si and 11B NMR spectra.
Alkali activation of a novel calcium‐silicate hydraulic binder with CaO/SiO2 = 1.1
Authors: Santos Rodrigo L. , Horta Ricardo B. , Pereira João , Nunes Teresa G. , Rocha Paulo , Colaço Rogério
Published: March 2018

A quasi‐amorphous low‐calcium‐silicate hydraulic binder, with an overall CaO/SiO2 (C/S) molar ratio of 1.1, was produced. This cementitious material was then hydrated with aqueous solutions containing 3 wt% alkalis (either NaOH, Na2CO3 or Na2SiO3). The evolution of the hydration processes of the samples were monitored by compressive strength testing, XRD, FTIR, 29Si and 27Al MAS NMR, isothermal calorimetry and TGA. It was found that the nearly exclusive hydration product formed was a C‐S‐H phase with a semi‐crystalline structure. More importantly, the paste prepared with the Na2SiO3 solution developed compressive strength values similar to those of ordinary portland cements (OPC) with faster early age kinetics. In addition, the isothermal calorimetry results indicated that these new hydraulic binders present much lower heat of hydration values compared with a traditional OPC. The results presented here open the possibility of producing cement with a compressive strength comparable to that of OPC but with lower CO2 emissions during the production process and with lower hydration heat related problems during the production of concrete structures.
pH‐dependent facile synthesis of CaAl‐layered double hydroxides and its effect on the growth inhibition of cancer cells
Authors: Saha Suman , Ray Sayantan , Ghosh Swapankumar , Chakraborty Jui
Published: March 2018

The present communication reports a pH‐dependent facile synthesis of calcium aluminum layered double hydroxide (CaAl‐LDH), at 3 different pH conditions of 8.5, 10.5 and 12.5 respectively, by simple coprecipitation route that led to the precipitation of the same in phase pure or in mixed phase form, and their detail characterization. Interestingly, at a pH of 8.5, the precipitate obtained was 100% phase pure CaAl‐LDH, represented as sample A, whereas, at higher pH conditions, a mixed phase comprising 37% of a combination of CaCO3 polymorphs, e.g., calcite and aragonite and 63% of the CaAl‐LDH (at pH 10.5, represented as sample B) and 43% of a combination of calcite and aragonite and the rest 57% being CaAl‐LDH (at pH 12.5, represented as sample C) respectively, were obtained. The increasing trend of the presence of carbonate anion (with reference to calcite and aragonite phases) was estimated by trace level ion‐exchange chromatography study using organic acid column. All the above samples were tested for their anticancer activity in vitro, using cancer cell lines, e.g., human colon carcinoma (HCT116) and human breast adenocarcinoma (MCF7). Interestingly, sample A only exhibited significant growth inhibition of the cancer cells as above‐mentioned. The observation as above was verified using human osteoblast precursor cells (MC3T3) as well, on which, all the samples (sample A, sample B and sample C) exhibited good cellular viability.
In situ HTXRD formation of magnesium titanates
Authors: Tuval Tamir , Zabicky Jacob , Gispert‐Guirado Francesc , Kimmel Giora , Goncharov Elena , Shneck Roni Z.
Published: March 2018

Coprecipitated xerogel precursors of nanocrystalline magnesium titanates, with a Mg:Ti stoichiometric ratio of 2:1, were subjected to thermal treatment in air at constant temperature, from 100 to 1300°C, using a hot‐stage X‐ray powder diffractometer. The phase sequences, the kinetics of phase evolution and crystallite size were studied during the first hour of the process at different temperatures. Until 500°C no diffraction peaks were observed. Between 550 and 800°C the structure was a mixture of two cubic nanocrystalline coherent structures: qandilite‐like and periclase‐like forms. At 900 and 1000°C, after 15 minutes, geikielite and periclase appear in small amounts but the qandilite‐like phase remains predominant; at 1100°C and above, qandilite is formed again as a single phase. The diffraction lines were substantially broadened for all crystalline phases formed at low temperatures, becoming sharper with increasing temperature and time. The phase evolution is interpreted as a consequence of the decrease in the surface area to volume ratio with increasing temperature and time, thus decreasing the significance of the surface energy. Linear thermal expansion coefficients were derived for qandilite.
Addressing sexual issues in palliative care: A qualitative study on nurses’ attitudes, roles and experiences
Authors: Benoot Charlotte , Enzlin Paul , Peremans Lieve , Bilsen Johan
Published: March 2018

Aim

To explore palliative care nurses’ attitudes, roles and concrete experience with regard to addressing sexual issues in their daily practice.

Background

Patients and their partners in palliative care might experience dramatic changes in their sexuality and want nurses to provide the opportunity to address them. Moreover, it is argued that the holistic philosophy of palliative care encourages nurses working in this area to include sexual issues in their daily care. It is, however, unknown how palliative care nurses address sexual issues.

Design

A generic qualitative study was performed.

Methods

In total, 21 in‐depth interviews were done with nurses from different facilities of palliative care networks in Flanders. Data were collected between September 2014 ‐ September 2016 and thematic analysis was used to analyse the data.

Results

It was found that the way palliative care nurses addressed sexual issues was clearly influenced by their own interpretation of the philosophical principles underlying palliative care. The different interpretations of these basic principles create tensions for nurses about how to address sexual issues in the daily practice of palliative care and nurses vary in their reactions to these tensions. The present findings show that palliative care nurses – when they were able to overcome these tensions – use a “sex‐positive approach” that fits with their tendency to focus on quality of life.

Conclusion

Out of the results of this study, we made a list of good practices for palliative care nurses addressing sexual issues. This list can be used in nursing educational programs.
A systematic review and meta‐analysis: Effectiveness of internet empowerment‐based self‐management interventions on adults with metabolic diseases
Authors: Kuo Chia‐Chi , Su Yu‐Jen , Lin Chiu‐Chu
Published: March 2018

Aim

To synthesize the effects of Internet empowerment‐based self‐management interventions on adults with metabolic diseases.

Background

Metabolic diseases are prevalent and burden healthcare systems; they have become a major health problem worldwide. The effects of IESMIs on lifestyle changes have been shown to improve adults’ physiological and psychological conditions. However, we found no systematic review evaluating these effects.

Design

Systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized and non‐randomized controlled trials, conducted according to the Cochrane handbook.

Data resources

A literature search was conducted using the Airiti Library, Association for Computing Machinery, CINAHL, Cochrane Library, Embase, ProQuest, PubMed/MEDLINE and Index of the Taiwan Periodical Literature System databases (earliest–June 2016).

Review methods

Two reviewers used the Cochrane Collaboration bias assessment tool to assess the methodological quality of included studies. Extracted data were entered and analysed using RevMan 5.3.5 software. Inverse variance was used to estimate effect sizes. Weighted and standardized mean differences with 95% confidence intervals were calculated using a random effects model. Subgroup and sensitivity analyses were performed.

Results

Twenty‐one randomized controlled trials were reviewed. Meta‐analysis showed that the intervention significantly improved adults’ exercise habits, glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) levels, body weight, empowerment levels and quality of life.

Conclusion

The intervention significantly improve the health status of adults with metabolic diseases, in particular their exercise habits, HbA1c levels, body weight, empowerment and quality of life. The intervention provides more convenient and faster access to healthcare for busy individuals with time constraints. These results suggest that healthcare professionals could develop accessible and friendly interactive online interfaces for patients to expand the use of these interventions in the clinical setting.