bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Locomotive syndrome is associated with large blood pressure variability in elderly hypertensives: the Japan Ambulatory Blood Pressure Prospective (JAMP) substudy
Authors: Imaizumi Yuki , Eguchi Kazuo , Murakami Takeshi , Saito Tomohiro , Hoshide Satoshi , Kario Kazuomi
Published: November 2016

Chronic pain, represented by locomotive syndrome (LS), and psychosocial factors are possible factors of blood pressure (BP) variability (BPV). The authors tested the hypothesis that there are links among LS, depression, and BPV. In 85 Japanese elderly hypertensive patients with normal daily activities, the authors performed ambulatory BP monitoring, determined the LS scale (LSS), and administered the Self‐Rating Questionnaire for Depression (SRQD). The LSS score but not the SRQD score was associated with the standard deviation (SD) and coefficient of variation (CV) of daytime systolic BP (SBP) and SD of nighttime SBP (all P<.05). Higher LSS score (in quartiles) was associated with a higher SD of daytime SBP (P=.041), even after adjusting for covariates. Regarding the components of the LSS score, movement‐related difficulty and usual care difficulty were associated with the SD and CV of daytime SBP. In elderly hypertensive patients, the LSS score was associated with exaggerated systolic BPV. The LS state could be an important determinant of systolic BPV.
Relationship of glycated hemoglobin, and fasting and postprandial hyperglycemia in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients in Malaysia
Authors: Lim Lee Ling , Brnabic Alan JM , Chan Siew Pheng , Ibrahim Luqman , Paramasivam Sharmila Sunita , Ratnasingam Jeyakantha , Vethakkan Shireene Ratna , Tan Alexander Tong Boon
Published: November 2016

Aims/Introduction

Studies on the relative contributions of fasting and postprandial hyperglycemia (FH and PPH) to glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) in patients with type 2 diabetes have yielded inconsistent results. We aimed to assess the relationship by using continuous glucose monitoring in a multi‐ethnic cohort.

Materials and Methods

A total of 100 adults with type 2 diabetes were assessed with 6‐day continuous glucose monitoring and HbA1c. Area under the curve (AUC) ≥5.6 mmol/L was defined as AUCTOTAL. AUC equal to or greater than each preprandial glucose for 4‐h duration was defined as AUCPPH. The total PPH (AUCTPPH) was the sum of the various AUCPPH. The postprandial contribution to overall hyperglycemia was calculated as (AUCTPPH / AUCTOTAL) × 100%.

Results

The present study comprised of Malay, Indian, and Chinese type 2 diabetes patients at 34, 34 and 28% respectively. Overall, the mean PPH significantly decreased as HbA1c advanced (mixed model repeated measures adjusted, beta‐estimate = −3.0, P = 0.009). Age (P = 0.010) and hypoglycemia (P = 0.006) predicted the contribution difference. In oral antidiabetic drug‐treated patients (n = 58), FH contribution increased from 54% (HbA1c 6–6.9%) to 67% (HbA1c ≥10%). FH predominance was significant in poorly‐controlled groups (P = 0.028 at HbA1c 9–9.9%; P = 0.015 at HbA1c ≥10%). Among insulin users (n = 42), FH predominated when HbA1c was ≥10% before adjustment for hypoglycemia (P = 0.047), whereas PPH was numerically greater when HbA1c was <8%.

Conclusions

FH and PPH contributions were equal in well‐controlled Malaysian type 2 diabetes patients in real‐world practice. FH predominated when HbA1c was ≥9 and ≥10% in oral antidiabetic drug‐ and insulin‐treated patients, respectively. A unique observation was the greater PPH contribution when HbA1c was <8% despite the use of basal and mealtime insulin in this multi‐ethnic cohort, which required further validation.
Periodontitis and risk of psoriasis: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Ungprasert P. , Wijarnpreecha K. , Wetter D.A.
Published: November 2016

Background

The association between periodontitis and systemic diseases has been increasingly recognized. However, the data on the association between periodontitis and psoriasis are still limited.

Objectives

To summarize all available data on the association between periodontitis and the risk of psoriasis.

Methods

Two investigators independently searched published studies indexed in MEDLINE and EMBASE databases from inception to July 2016 using a search strategy that included terms for psoriasis and periodontitis. Studies were included if the following criteria were met: (i) case–control or cohort study comparing the risk of psoriasis in subjects with and without periodontitis; (ii) subjects without periodontitis were used as comparators in cohort studies while participants without psoriasis were used as controls in case–control studies; and (iii) effect estimates and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were provided. Point estimates and standard errors from each study were extracted and combined together using the generic inverse variance technique described by DerSimonian and Laird.

Results

Two cohort studies and three case–control studies met the inclusion criteria and were included in the meta‐analysis. The pooled risk ratio of psoriasis in patients with periodontitis versus comparators was 1.55 (95% CI, 1.35–1.77). The statistical heterogeneity was insignificant with an I2 of 18%. Subgroup analysis according to study design revealed a significantly higher risk among patients with periodontitis with a pooled RR of 1.50 (95% CI, 1.37–1.64) for cohort studies and a pooled RR of 2.33 (95% CI, 1.51–3.60) for case–control studies.

Conclusions

Patients with periodontitis have a significantly elevated risk of psoriasis.
Constrained evolution of the sex comb inDrosophila simulans
Authors: Maraqa M. S. , Griffin R. , Sharma M. D. , Wilson A. J. , Hunt J. , Hosken D. J. , House C. M.
Published: November 2016

Male fitness is dependent on sexual traits that influence mate acquisition (precopulatory sexual selection) and paternity (post‐copulatory sexual selection), and although many studies have documented the form of selection in one or the other of these arenas, fewer have done it for both. Nonetheless, it appears that the dominant form of sexual selection is directional, although theoretically, populations should converge on peaks in the fitness surface, where selection is stabilizing. Many factors, however, can prevent populations from reaching adaptive peaks. Genetic constraints can be important if they prevent the development of highest fitness phenotypes, as can the direction of selection if it reverses across episodes of selection. In this study, we examine the evidence that these processes influence the evolution of the multivariate sex comb morphology of maleDrosophila simulans. To do this, we conduct a quantitative genetic study together with a multivariate selection analysis to infer how the genetic architecture and selection interact. We find abundant genetic variance and covariance in elements of the sex comb. However, there was little evidence for directional selection in either arena. Significant nonlinear selection was detected prior to copulation when males were mated to nonvirgin females, and post‐copulation during sperm offence (again with males mated to nonvirgins). Thus, contrary to our predictions, the evolution of theD. simulanssex comb is limited neither by genetic constraints nor by antagonistic selection between pre‐ and post‐copulatory arenas, but nonlinear selection on the multivariate phenotype may prevent sex combs from evolving to reach some fitness maximizing optima.
Phosphorylation of Serine 148 in Giardia lamblia End‐binding 1 Protein is Important for Cell Division
Authors: Kim Juri , Lee Hye‐Yeon , Lee Kyu‐Ho , Park Soon‐Jung
Published: November 2016

Giardia lamblia is a unicellular organism, showing a polarity with two nuclei and cytoskeletal structures. Accurate positioning of these organelles is essential for division of G. lamblia, which is poorly understood. Giardia lamblia end‐binding 1 (GlEB1) protein and G. lamblia aurora kinase (GlAK) have been shown to modulate microtubule (MT) distribution during cytokinesis. A direct association between GlEB1 and GlAK was demonstrated. Like GlEB1, GlAK was also found at nuclear envelopes and median bodies of G. lamblia. In vitro kinase assays using Giardia lysates immunoprecipitated with anti‐GlAK antibodies or recombinant GlAK suggested that GlEB1 is a substrate of GlAK. Site‐directed mutagenesis indicated that threonine‐205 in GlAK was auto‐phosphorylated and that GlAK phosphorylated serine (Ser)‐148 in GlEB1. Ectopic expression of a mutant GlEB1 (with conversion of Ser‐148 into alanine of GlEB1) resulted in an increased number of Giardia cells with division defects. Treatment of G. lamblia with an AK inhibitor triggered cytokinesis defects, and ectopic expression of a phospho‐mimetic mutant GlEB1 (with conversion of Ser‐148 into aspartate) rescued the defects in Giardia cell division caused by the AK inhibitor. These results suggested that phosphorylation of GlEB1 played a role in cytokinesis in G. lamblia.
Genetic identification of istiophorid larvae from the Gulf of Mexico based on the analysis of mitochondrial DNA control region sequences
Authors: McKenzie J. L. , Alvarado Bremer J. R.
Published: November 2016

Assigning relative importance of spawning and nursery habitats for threatened and endangered teleosts, such as those seen in the Gulf of Mexico (GoM), relies on the proper identification of the early life‐history stages of the species of concern. Here, sequencing a portion of the mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) control region (CR) I as barcodes is recommended to identify istiophorid (billfish) larvae in the Atlantic Ocean because of its high resolution and the intrinsic value of the levels of genetic variation that can be extracted from these data. The universality of the primers employed here demonstrates their utility for not only the positive identification of istiophorids in the GoM, but for any larval teleost occurring in areas recognized as larval hotspots worldwide.
Can water disinfection prevent the transmission of infectious koi herpesvirus to naïve carp? – a case report
Authors: Bergmann S M , Monro E S , Kempter J
Published: November 2016

Hygienic measures such as disinfection are important tools for the maintenance of fish health in aquaculture. While little information is available on the disinfection of water intended for fish containment, Huwa‐San®, a disinfectant used in food and water industries, was used for daily treatment at concentrations of approximately 60 ppm over a total period of 3 months (experiment 1) with a 3‐week treatment‐free interval after 2 months (experiment 2). During this period, koi herpesvirus (KHV) was added to the water of two aquaria, one used as a normal contact control, the other one receiving daily water disinfectant treatments that prevented KHV infection of carp. In the second experiment, Huwa‐San® treatment was interrupted and KHV infection was prevalent. However, when naïve fish were introduced to the same aquarium after re‐application of disinfectant, KHV could not be detected in those naïve fish. Whilst KHV could not be detected in samples where disinfectant had been applied, it was present in samples of naïve fish cohabiting with infection contact control animals which had undergone no disinfectant treatment over experiments 1 and 2. The results presented here show that water treatment with a disinfectant may prevent transmission of infectious KHV to naïve carp cohabited with infected carp.
Visualizing distribution of pesticide residues in mulberry leaves using NIR hyperspectral imaging
Authors: Jiang Shuying , Sun Jun , Xin Zhou , Mao Hanping , Wu Xiaohong , Li Qinglin
Published: November 2016

Nowadays, hyperspectral imaging technique has been abroad and successfully used for quality inspection of food products. In this study, the microstructural changes of mulberry were investigated by scanning electron microscope (SEM). Furthermore, NIR hyperspectral imaging system was used to predict the distribution of Pesticide residues in mulberry leaves with the aid of Gas Chromatography. It is primary to extract the characteristic wavelengths in the prediction and visualization of Pesticide residues in mulberry leaves. Successive projections algorithm (SPA), Stepwise regression(SR) and Regression coefficients (RC) were utilized. MLR was applied to build prediction models based on spectral feature in characteristic wavelengths. The best model SPA‐MLR (
and RMSEP = 38.789) was implemented into the pesticide residues visualization procedure. This study demonstrated that pesticide residues distribution map clearly showed the distribution of Pesticide residues in mulberry leaves.

Practical applications

Well understanding the effect of Pesticide residues to biological structure is very important for revelation of novel biological function and mechanism of action of the protein. To facilitate more quickly and effectively detect the types of pesticide residues on the surface of mulberry leaves, the microstructural changes of mulberry were investigated by scanning electron microscope (SEM). Furthermore, NIR hyperspectral imaging system was used to predict the distribution of Pesticide residues in mulberry leaves with the aid of Gas Chromatography.
Predicting Risk of Cognitive Decline in Very Old Adults Using Three Models: The Framingham Stroke Risk Profile; the Cardiovascular Risk Factors, Aging, and Dementia Model; and Oxi‐Inflammatory Biomarkers
Authors: Harrison Stephanie L. , de Craen Anton J. M. , Kerse Ngaire , Teh Ruth , Granic Antoneta , Davies Karen , Wesnes Keith A. , den Elzen Wendy P. J. , Gussekloo Jacobijn , Kirkwood Thomas B. L. , Robinson Louise , Jagger Carol , Siervo Mario , Stephan Blossom C. M.
Published: November 2016

Objectives

To examine the Framingham Stroke Risk Profile (FSRP); the Cardiovascular Risk Factors, Aging, and Incidence of Dementia (CAIDE) risk score, and oxi‐inflammatory load (cumulative risk score of three blood biomarkers—homocysteine, interleukin‐6, C‐reactive protein) for associations with cognitive decline using three cohort studies of very old adults and to examine whether incorporating these biomarkers with the risk scores can affect the association with cognitive decline.

Design

Three longitudinal, population‐based cohort studies.

Setting

Newcastle‐upon‐Tyne, United Kingdom; Leiden, the Netherlands; and Lakes and Bay of Plenty District Health Board areas, New Zealand.

Participants

Newcastle 85+ Study participants (n = 616), Leiden 85‐plus Study participants (n = 444), and Life and Living in Advanced Age, a Cohort Study in New Zealand (LiLACS NZ Study) participants (n = 396).

Measurements

FSRP, CAIDE risk score, oxi‐inflammatory load, FSRP incorporating oxi‐inflammatory load, and CAIDE risk score incorporating oxi‐inflammatory load. Oxi‐inflammatory load could be calculated only in the Newcastle 85+ and the Leiden 85‐plus studies. Measures of global cognitive function were available for all three data sets. Domain‐specific measures were available for the Newcastle 85+ and the Leiden 85‐plus studies.

Results

Meta‐analysis of pooled results showed greater risk of incident global cognitive impairment with higher FSRP (hazard ratio (HR) = 1.46, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.08–1.98), CAIDE (HR = 1.53, 95% CI = 1.09–2.14), and oxi‐inflammatory load (HR = 1.73, 95% CI = 1.04–2.88) scores. Adding oxi‐inflammatory load to the risk scores increased the risk of cognitive impairment for the FSRP (HR = 1.65, 95% CI = 1.17–2.33) and the CAIDE model (HR = 1.93, 95% CI = 1.39–2.67).

Conclusion

Adding oxi‐inflammatory load to cardiovascular risk scores may be useful for determining risk of cognitive impairment in very old adults.
Beta‐Blocker Use in U.S. Nursing Home Residents After Myocardial Infarction: A National Study
Authors: Zullo Andrew R. , Lee Yoojin , Daiello Lori A. , Mor Vincent , John Boscardin W. , Dore David D. , Miao Yinghui , Fung Kathy Z. , Komaiko Kiya D. R. , Steinman Michael A.
Published: November 2016

Objectives

To evaluate how often beta‐blockers were started after acute myocardial infarction (AMI) in nursing home (NH) residents who previously did not use these drugs and to evaluate which factors were associated with post‐AMI use of beta‐blockers.

Design

Retrospective cohort using linked national Minimum Data Set assessments; Online Survey, Certification and Reporting records; and Medicare claims.

Setting

U.S. NHs.

Participants

National cohort of 15,720 residents aged 65 and older who were hospitalized for AMI between May 2007 and March 2010, had not taken beta‐blockers for at least 4 months before their AMI, and survived 14 days or longer after NH readmission.

Measurements

The outcome was beta‐blocker initiation within 30 days of NH readmission.

Results

Fifty‐seven percent (n = 8,953) of residents initiated a beta‐blocker after AMI. After covariate adjustment, use of beta‐blockers was less in older residents (ranging from odds ratio (OR) = 0.89, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.79–1.00 for aged 75–84 to OR = 0.65, 95% CI = 0.54–0.79 for ≥95 vs 65–74) and less in residents with higher levels of functional impairment (dependent or totally dependent vs independent to limited assistance: OR = 0.84, 95% CI = 0.75–0.94) and medication use (≥15 vs ≤10 medications: OR = 0.89, 95% CI = 0.80–0.99). A wide variety of resident and NH characteristics were not associated with beta‐blocker use, including sex, cognitive function, comorbidity burden, and NH ownership.

Conclusion

Almost half of older NH residents in the United States do not initiate a beta‐blocker after AMI. The absence of observed factors that strongly predict beta‐blocker use may indicate a lack of consensus on how to manage older NH residents, suggesting the need to develop and disseminate thoughtful practice standards.
Factors related to the burnout of Japanese female nurses with children under 3 years old
Authors: Takayama Yuko , Suzuki Eiko , Kobiyama Atsuko , Maruyama Akiko , Sera Yoshiko
Published: November 2016

Aim

Burnout is a common feature among healthcare professionals; however, little systematic research exists on burnout among nurses who are raising children. The burnout‐related factors among female nurses with children under the age of 3 years were identified in order to ascertain potential burnout prevention methods.

Methods

In total, 1681 nurses with children who worked at nine city hospitals in Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan, were sent the Maslach Burnout Inventory–Human Services Survey; 1173 nurses responded in June 2014. They were divided according to their sex and children's ages. A data analysis was undertaken for those female nurses with children who were aged under 3 years who provided valid responses (n = 158).

Results

A number of factors related to burnout in female nurses with children aged under 3 years was found via a multiple regression analysis: irritation at being unable to attend to their own affairs, over 4–6 h of overtime work per week, having a child aged under 3 years as the first or second child, little sense of work fulfillment, using a childcare facility outside the workplace, dissatisfaction with their salary, feeling ill‐qualified as a parent, and a sense of inadequate support.

Conclusions

Child care occurs during a limited period and appropriate support is needed. A workplace environment with no overtime work, a childcare facility in the workplace, and mental health support to reduce “feelings of irritation” and “feeling ill‐qualified as a parent” could help to prevent burnout in female nurses with toddlers and infants.
Iranshahr blueschist: subduction of the inner Makran oceanic crust
Authors: Omrani H. , Moazzen M. , Oberhänsli R. , Moslempour M. E.
Published: November 2016

The Makran accretionary prism in SE Iran and SW Pakistan is one of the most extensive subduction accretions on Earth. It is characterized by intense folding, thrust faulting and dislocation of the Cenozoic units that consist of sedimentary, igneous and metamorphic rocks. Rock units forming the northern Makran ophiolites are amalgamated as a mélange. Metamorphic rocks, including greenschist, amphibolite and blueschist, resulted from metamorphism of mafic rocks and serpentinites. In spite of the geodynamic significance of blueschist in this area, it has been rarely studied. Peak metamorphic phases of the northern Makran mafic blueschist in the Iranshahr area are glaucophane, phengite, quartz±omphacite+epidote. Post peak minerals are chlorite, albite and calcic amphibole. Blueschist facies metasedimentary rocks contain garnet, phengite, albite and epidote in the matrix and as inclusions in glaucophane. The calculated P–T pseudosection for a representative metabasic glaucophane schist yields peak pressure and temperature of 11.5–15 kbar at 400–510 °C. These rocks experienced retrograde metamorphism from blueschist to greenschist facies (350–450 °C and 7–8 kbar) during exhumation. A back arc basin was formed due to northward subduction of Neotethys under Eurasia (Lut block). Exhumation of the high‐pressure metamorphic rocks in northern Makran occurred contemporarily with subduction. Several reverse faults played an important role in exhumation of the ophiolitic and HP‐LT rocks. The presence of serpentinite shows the possible role of a serpentinite diapir for exhumation of the blueschist. A tectonic model is proposed here for metamorphism and exhumation of oceanic crust and accretionary sedimentary rocks of the Makran area. Vast accretion of subducted materials caused southward migration of the shore.
Chloride co‐transporters as possible therapeutic targets for stroke
Authors: Martín‐Aragón Baudel Miguel A. S. , Poole Amy V. , Darlison Mark G.
Published: November 2016

Stroke is one of the major causes of death and disability worldwide. The major type of stroke is an ischaemic one, which is caused by a blockage that interrupts blood flow to the brain. There are currently very few pharmacological strategies to reduce the damage and social burden triggered by this pathology. The harm caused by the interruption of blood flow to the brain unfolds in the subsequent hours and days, so it is critical to identify new therapeutic targets that could reduce neuronal death associated with the spread of the damage. Here, we review some of the key molecular mechanisms involved in the progression of neuronal death, focusing on some new and promising studies. In particular, we focus on the potential of the chloride co‐transporter (CCC) family of proteins, mediators of the GABAergic response, both during the early and later stages of stroke, to promote neuroprotection and recovery. Different studies of CCCs during the chronic and recovery phases post‐stroke reveal the importance of timing when considering CCCs as potential neuroprotective and/or neuromodulator targets. The molecular regulatory mechanisms of the two main neuronal CCCs, NKCC1 and KCC2, are further discussed as an indirect approach for promoting neuroprotection and neurorehabilitation following an ischaemic insult. Finally, we mention the likely importance of combining different strategies in order to achieve more effective therapies.

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Lectins selectively label cartilage condensations and the otic neuroepithelium within the embryonic chicken head
Authors: Ray Poulomi , Hughes Ami J. , Sharif Misha , Chapman Susan C.
Published: November 2016

Cartilage morphogenesis during endochondral ossification follows a progression of conserved developmental events. Cells are specified towards a prechondrogenic fate and subsequently undergo condensation followed by overt differentiation. Currently available molecular markers of prechondrogenic and condensing mesenchyme rely on common regulators of the chondrogenic program that are not specific to the tissue type or location. Therefore tissue‐specific condensations cannot be distinguished based on known molecular markers. Here, using the chick embryo model, we utilized lectin labeling on serial sections, demonstrating that differential labeling by peanut agglutinin (PNA) and Sambucus nigra agglutinin (SNA) successfully separates adjacently located condensations in the proximal second pharyngeal arch. PNA selectively labels chick middle ear columella and basal plate condensation, whereas SNA specifically marks extracolumella and the ventro‐lateral part of the otic capsule. We further extended our study to examine lectin‐binding properties of the different parts of the inner ear epithelium, neural tube and notochord. Our results show that SNA labels the auditory and vestibular hair cells of the inner ear, whereas PNA specifically recognizes the statoacoustic ganglion. PNA is also highly specific for the floor plate of the neural tube. Additionally, wheat germ agglutinin (WGA) labels the basement membrane of the notochord and is a marker of the apical‐basal polarity of the cochlear duct. Overall, this study indicates that selective lectin labeling is a promising approach to differentiate between contiguously located mesenchymal condensations and subregions of epithelia globally during development.
Capturing early signs of deterioration: the dutch‐early‐nurse‐worry‐indicator‐score and its value in the Rapid Response System
Authors: Douw Gooske , Huisman‐de Waal Getty , van Zanten Arthur R H , van der Hoeven Johannes G , Schoonhoven Lisette
Published: November 2016

Aims and objectives

To determine the predictive value of individual and combined dutch‐early‐nurse‐worry‐indicator‐score indicators at various Early Warning Score levels, differentiating between Early Warning Scores reaching the trigger threshold to call a rapid response team and Early Warning Score levels not reaching this point.

Background

Dutch‐early‐nurse‐worry‐indicator‐score comprises nine indicators underlying nurses’ ‘worry’ about a patient's condition. All indicators independently show significant association with unplanned intensive care/high dependency unit admission or unexpected mortality. Prediction of this outcome improved by adding the dutch‐early‐nurse‐worry‐indicator‐score indicators to an Early Warning Score based on vital signs.

Design

An observational cohort study was conducted on three surgical wards in a tertiary university‐affiliated teaching hospital.

Methods

Included were surgical, native‐speaking, adult patients. Nurses scored presence of ‘worry’ and/or dutch‐early‐nurse‐worry‐indicator‐score indicators every shift or when worried. Vital signs were measured according to the prevailing protocol. Unplanned intensive care/high dependency unit admission or unexpected mortality was the composite endpoint. Percentages of ‘worry’ and dutch‐early‐nurse‐worry‐indicator‐score indicators were calculated at various Early Warning Score levels in control and event groups. Entering all dutch‐early‐nurse‐worry‐indicator‐score indicators in a multiple logistic regression analysis, we calculated a weighted score and calculated sensitivity, specificity, positive predicted value and negative predicted value for each possible total score.

Results

In 3522 patients, 102 (2·9%) had an unplanned intensive care/high dependency unit admissions (n = 97) or unexpected mortality (n = 5). Patients with such events and only slightly changed vital signs had significantly higher percentages of ‘worry’ and dutch‐early‐nurse‐worry‐indicator‐score indicators expressed than patients in the control group. Increasing number of dutch‐early‐nurse‐worry‐indicator‐score indicators showed higher positive predictive values.

Conclusions

Dutch‐early‐nurse‐worry‐indicator‐score indicators alert in an early stage of deterioration, before reaching the trigger threshold to call a rapid response team and can improve interdisciplinary communication on surgical wards during regular rounds, and when calling for assistance.

Relevance to clinical practice

Dutch‐early‐nurse‐worry‐indicator‐score structures communication and recording of signs known to be associated with a decline in a patient's condition and can empower nurses to call assistance on the ‘worry’ criterion in an early stage of deterioration.
Improving the quality of registered nurses’ working time use data
Authors: Antinaho Tuula , Kivinen Tuula , Turunen Hannele , Partanen Pirjo
Published: November 2016

Aims and objectives

To examine the advantages and disadvantages of external observation and self‐reporting methods in investigating registered nurses’ working time use in order to improve the quality of working time use data.

Background

External observation and self‐reporting methods are the most widely used approaches for studying nurses’ working time use in observational work sampling studies, but there is scarce information of the data collection procedures and results in the same research context and in the same study.

Design

A cross‐sectional quantitative study with a structured data collection instrument developed for this study. The same instrument was used in both data collections.

Methods

Data were collected from six inpatient units at two Finnish tertiary hospitals in autumn 2013 over two consecutive weeks. All registered nurses (n = 95) from two internal medical units, two surgical units and two psychiatric units participated in this study.

Results

Statistically significantly divergent information was produced by the two data collection methods in the major nursing categories of value‐adding care and non‐value‐adding work as well as in each of the seven nursing subcategories.

Conclusions

External observation and self‐reporting gave an overall picture of how registered nurses are using their working time, and both methods were useful in examining registered nurses’ working time use when taking into account the advantages and disadvantages of these methods. The deviations between the results improved the quality of data because both methods address recognised shortcomings of the other.

Relevance to clinical practice

This research promotes awareness of the divergent study results by investigating registered nurses’ working time use with these two different data collection methods. In future, it would be wise to aim for more comparable data by applying external observation and self‐reporting techniques simultaneously.
Assessment of fetal myocardial performance index in women with pregestational and gestational diabetes mellitus
Authors: Sanhal Cem Yasar , Daglar Halil Korkut , Kara Ozgur , Uygur Dilek , Yucel Aykan
Published: November 2016

Aim

Fetal cardiac left ventricular function in pregnant women with pregestational or gestational diabetes mellitus was investigated by exploring fetal myocardial performance index (MPI) and E wave/A wave peak velocity (E/A) ratio.

Methods

Seventy pregnant women with either pregestational or gestational diabetes mellitus and with no other systemic or pregnancy related disorders were compared with 70 gestational age matched healthy controls by means of fetal left ventricular MPI and E/A ratio. Opening and closing clicks of the mitral and aortic valves were used to define the three time periods: ejection time (ET), isovolumetric contraction time (ICT) and isovolumetric relaxation time (IRT), which were employed in the calculation of MPI (MPI = [ICT + IRT]/ET). Statistical analyses were conducted using receiver operating characteristic analysis and independent two‐samplet, Mann–Whitney U and chi‐square tests.

Results

Fetal left ventricular MPI values were significantly higher in the diabetic group compared with controls (0.56 ± 0.09 vs 0.36 ± 0.04,P< 0.001), whereas E/A ratio was lower (0.66 ± 0.11 vs 0.69 ± 0.09,P= 0.049). The adverse perinatal outcome rate was also higher in the diabetic group. Receiver operating characteristic analysis revealed > 0.39 as the optimal cut‐off level for MPI in perinatal adverse outcome prediction (sensitivity: 90.9%, specificity: 47.7%, area under the curve: 0.690, 95% confidence interval: 0.598–0.782,P< 0.001).

Conclusions

We conclude that fetuses of diabetic mothers have significant left ventricular systolic and diastolic dysfunction. MPI may be used in the prediction of adverse perinatal outcome in diabetic pregnancies.
Injury to the endometrium prior to the frozen–thawed embryo transfer cycle improves pregnancy rates in patients with repeated implantation failure
Authors: Kanazawa Emiko , Nakashima Akira , Yonemoto Koji , Otsuka Misako , Yoshioka Naomi , Kuramoto Takeshi , Mitao Hiroshi , Imaishi Hiroto , Komai Kan , Ushijima Kimio
Published: November 2016

Aim

This retrospective cohort study evaluated the effectiveness of injury to the endometrium prior to the frozen–thawed embryo transfer (FET) cycle in patients with repeated implantation failure (RIF) in our clinic.

Methods

Included in this study were 173 patients, aged ≤ 41 years, who failed to become pregnant after repeating fair and/or good embryo transfer more than twice between February 2012 and February 2015. The patients were divided into three groups: Group A (n = 38) underwent soft curettage to the endometrium twice, prior to the FET cycle; Group B (n = 45) underwent hysteroscopy prior to the FET cycle, with no significant factors, such as endometrial polyp; and Group C (n = 90) was the no‐treatment group.

Results

The clinical pregnancy rate per transfer was found to be statistically significant between Group A at 42.1% (16/38) and Group C at 22.2% (20/90). The crude and adjusted odds ratios (OR) were 2.55 and 2.49 (95% confidence intervals 1.13–5.78, P = 0.03 and 1.01–6.17, P = 0.048) respectively. Group B with only hysteroscopy had a higher pregnancy rate of 35.6% (16/45) than Group C, but showed no statistical significance (P = 0.103).

Conclusion

These results suggest that injuring the endometrium has a positive effect on pregnancy.
Vitamin D restores angiogenic balance and decreases tumor necrosis factor‐α in a rat model of pre‐eclampsia
Authors: Song Jing , Li Yue , An Ruifang
Published: November 2016

Aim

Deficiency of vitamin D is correlated with pre‐eclampsia (PE), a hypertensive disorder of pregnancy, and is characterized by angiogenic imbalance and inflammation. The aim of this study was to investigate whether vitamin D supplementation can restore the angiogenic balance and ameliorate inflammation in a rat model of PE.

Methods

PE was induced using l‐nitroarginine methylester. Normal pregnant and PE‐induced rats were supplemented with vitamin D on gestation days 14–19.

Results

Blood pressure was significantly increased in PE‐induced rats compared with normal pregnant rats (P < 0.05), and vitamin D supplementation ameliorated this difference. In addition, rats from the PE group had lower vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF; P < 0.01), and higher plasma‐soluble FMS‐like tyrosine kinase‐1 (sFlt‐1) and tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α; P < 0.01 for both) compared with the normal pregnant group. The vitamin D treatment group had significantly increased VEGF, and reduced sFlt‐1 and TNF‐α compared with the untreated PE group. Moreover, vitamin D supplementation was able to reduce the oxidative stress by lowering the plasma oxidative stress marker malondialdehyde.

Conclusion

Vitamin D supplementation plays an important role in restoring angiogenic balance and reducing inflammation in pregnancy‐induced hypertension.
Efficacy and Safety of the GuideLiner Mother‐in‐Child Guide Catheter Extension in Percutaneous Coronary Intervention
Authors: Sharma Divyesh , Shah Ashish , Osten Mark , Ing Douglas , Barolet Alan , Overgaard Christopher B. , Džavík Vladimír , Seidelin Peter H.
Published: November 2016

Background

Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) procedures are increasingly performed on complex tortuous and heavily calcified coronary lesions. The GuideLiner® catheter (Vascular Solutions, Inc. Minneapolis, MN) is a rapid exchange guide catheter extension system. There is paucity of data about the efficacy of this device in complex PCI. Therefore, we aim to report the indications, success, and efficacy of GuideLiner use in treating complex lesion subset in the present study.

Methods

We collected data from all patients in whom the GuideLiner was used to facilitate PCI between April 1, 2011 and December 31, 2014 at a tertiary referral center in Toronto, Canada. Demographic and procedural data were obtained from an institutional prospective data registry. Indications for use of the GuideLiner, and angiographic and procedural data specific to the device were also collected.

Results

The GuideLiner was utilized in 307 (317 lesions) of 6105 PCI procedures performed at our institution during the study period. The mean age was 68.4 ± 11.2 years and 82% were male. The majority of lesions were types B2 or C (98%), calcified (86.3%), with proximal tortuosity (88.6%). The overall technical success rate of the GuideLiner was 88%. The procedural success rate was 98.7%. The complication rate was low (1.6%).

Conclusions

Use of the GuideLiner catheter facilitated successful completion of PCI procedures in a majority of patients with complex lesions. Operators should be aware of the potential complications associated with GuideLiner use.
Resources of Grandparents: Educational Outcomes Across Three Generations in Europe and Israel
Authors: Deindl Christian , Tieben Nicole
Published: November 2016

Educational attainment depends on parents' material and cultural resources. In many families, the grandparents also provide resources that directly or indirectly support their children's educational careers. That is why we applied a multigenerational view and tested if and under which conditions the resources of grandparents are relevant for the educational outcomes of their grandchildren. Using data from the fifth wave of the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe (N = 27,447), we examined the association between the education of children and the resources of their grandparents. The results show that the impact of grandparental resources is not generally negligible and not entirely mediated by the parental generation. The resources of the grandparents can be used as a substitute for a lack of parental resources. In addition, the “grandparent effect” also differs across countries, indicating that certain welfare state provisions seem to enhance or attenuate the relevance of grandparents' resources.
Does Shyness Vary According to Attained Social Roles? Trends Across Age Groups in a Large British Sample
Authors: Van Zalk Nejra , Lamb Michael E. , Jason Rentfrow Peter
Published: November 2016

Objective

The current study investigated (a) how a composite measure of shyness comprising introversion and neuroticism relates to other well‐known constructs involving social fears, and (b) whether mean levels of shyness vary for men and women depending on the adoption of various social roles.

Method

Study 1 used a sample of 211 UK participants aged 17–70 (64% female; Mage = 47.90). Study 2 used data from a large cross‐sectional data set with UK participants aged 17–70 (Ntarget = 552,663; 64% female; Mage = 34.19 years).

Results

Study 1 showed that shyness measured as a composite of introversion and neuroticism was highly correlated with other constructs involving social fears. Study 2 indicated that, controlling for various sociodemographic variables, females appeared to have higher levels, whereas males appeared to have lower levels of shyness. Males and females who were in employment had the lowest shyness levels, whereas those working in unskilled jobs had the highest levels and people working in sales the lowest levels of shyness. Participants in relationships had lower levels of shyness than those not in relationships, but parenthood was not associated with shyness.

Conclusions

Mean levels of shyness are likely to vary according to adopted social roles, gender, and age.
Inhibition ofPI3K‐Akt‐mTORsignal pathway dismissed the stimulation of glucose on goose liver cell growth
Authors: Wei S. , Han C. , He F. , Song Q. , Kang B. , Liu H. , Li L. , Xu H. , Zeng X.
Published: November 2016

In the formation of goose fatty liver induced by a high‐carbohydrate diet, it is characterized by the quick cell growth of liver. The carbohydrate is mostly digested and absorbed in the small intestine by the form of glucose. Recent studies have suggested a crucial role forPI3K‐Akt‐mTORpathway in regulating cell proliferation, and then we speculate thatPI3K‐Akt‐mTORpathway may mediate glucose‐induced liver cell proliferation. Goose primary hepatocytes were isolated and incubated in either no addition as a control or glucose orPI3K‐Akt‐mTORpathway inhibitors or cotreatment with glucose andPI3K‐Akt‐mTORpathway inhibitors. The results firstly showed that 35 mmol/l glucose stimulated themRNAlevel and protein content of factors involved inPI3K‐Akt‐mTORsignal pathway in goose primary hepatocytes. Secondly, 35 mmol/l glucose evidently changed the cell cyclePIindex and protein expression of cyclin D1. Meanwhile, the upregulation of 35 mmol/l glucose on theDNAsynthesis rate, cell cyclePIindex, themRNAexpression, protein content and protein expression of factors involved in the cell proliferation was decreased significantly by the inhibitors ofPI3K‐Akt‐mTORpathway,LY294002, rapamycin orNVP‐BEZ235. In summary, glucose could stimulate the cell proliferation, and thePI3K‐Akt‐mTORpathway inhibitors could dismiss glucose‐induced the upregulation of cell proliferation in goose primary hepatocyte.
Morphometric traits of gizzard in relation to feeding habits of wild Sardinian partridges (Alectoris barbara barbara, Bonnaterre, 1790) with particular regard to clast selection
Authors: Cappai M. G. , Arru G. , Manconi M. , Muzzeddu M. , Pinna W.
Published: November 2016

Housing and feeding practices of wild birds for conservation management of biodiversity or restocking play a crucial role in determining the survival rates of animals when released into nature. Failure in coping with the environment might be one of the main flaws captive animals can experience when put into natural habitat. The present investigation aimed at exploring feeding habits and related morphometric traits of gizzard with respective content from wild partridges in comparison with captive ones. A total of 52 hunted wild Sardinian adult partridges (Alectoris barbara barbara Bonnaterre, 1790) were used. By comparison, 42 captive adult partridges reared in cages were enrolled. From each animal, the morphology of gizzard was investigated and respective content analysed for gross composition and taxonomical determination of fractions. Wet sieving analysis of each gizzard content was carried out (four‐sieve towers with different mesh sizes: 1 mm, 500 μm, 250 μm and 125 μm), and relative and absolute weight of fresh filled and empty gizzards were recorded. Thickness of muscular layer of gizzard wall was measured by stereomicroscope. Carcass weight significantly (p < 0.05) differed between captive vs. wild partridges (478 ± 21 and 305 ± 35 g respectively). Post‐mortem inspection highlighted gross morphological differences of gizzards between the two groups. Fresh weight of empty gizzards was 6.37 ± 0.80 vs. 11.25 ± 1.82 g, with average pH values of digesta 4.97 ± 0.11 vs. 4.38 ± 0.28 in captive vs. wild partridges respectively. Gizzard content from wild partridges accounted a 61.7% vs. 38.3% of biological vs. non‐biological material proportions (DM basis). The non‐biological material was mostly represented by lithic fragments and minerals (quartz, feldspar, calcite and mica) with specific peculiarities in terms of granulometry and morphometry. Feeding the captive partridges should point to support morphological and functional adaptation of gizzards to the feeding stuffs naturally available in the environment.
The Evidence for Easy‐Read for People With Intellectual Disabilities: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Sutherland Rebekah Joy , Isherwood Tom
Published: November 2016

Producing accessible information for people with intellectual disabilities has been seen as a priority for the past 20 years. Easy‐read resources are now widely available and several guidelines have been produced to support their development. However, little is known about the effectiveness of easy‐read resources and the specific components that make it effective. A systematic review of the literature in electronic databases (Medline, Embase, BNI, CINAHL, HMIC, PsycINFO, ERIC, PubMed, and Cochrane Library) conducted between November 2013 and January 2014 yielded 11 publications that attempted to evaluate the impact of easy‐read resources. The large variation in methodology among studies prevented a direct comparison of results; however, there were mixed findings concerning the impact of adding illustrations to written text on comprehension. A reader's level of familiarity with symbols emerged as an important factor, particularly with more abstract symbol systems that require some learning. Photographs and illustrations were generally found to be helpful, although it was acknowledged that these can be confusing and clear explanations are needed to ensure the correct message is conveyed. The format and level of difficulty of the text played an important role in the overall accessibility of information and particular linguistic features were associated with increased understanding. The methodological limitations of these studies were also considered and used to inform recommendations for future research. More attention needs to be focused on evaluating and distributing easy‐read information, as well as producing it.
Does Travel Time to a Radiation Facility Impact Patient Decision‐Making Regarding Treatment for Prostate Cancer? A Study of the New Hampshire State Cancer Registry
Authors: Ghali Fady , Celaya Maria , Laviolette Michael , Ingimarsson Johann , Carlos Heather , Rees Judy , Hyams Elias
Published: November 2016

Purpose

We sought to determine whether further distance from a radiation center is associated with lower utilization of external beam radiation therapy (XRT).

Methods

We retrospectively identified patients with a new diagnosis of localized prostate cancer (CaP) within the New Hampshire State Cancer Registry from 2004 to 2011. Patients were categorized by age, D'Amico risk category, year of treatment, marital status, season of diagnosis, urban/rural residence, and driving time to the nearest radiation facility. Treatment decisions were stratified into those requiring multiple trips (XRT) or a single trip (surgery or brachytherapy). Multivariable regression analysis was performed.

Results

A total of 4,731 patients underwent treatment for newly diagnosed CaP during the study period, including 1,575 multitrip (XRT) and 3,156 single‐trip treatments. Of these, 87.6% lived within a 30‐minute drive to a radiation facility. In multivariable analysis, time to the nearest radiation facility was not associated with treatment decisions (P = .26). However, higher risk category, older age, married status, and winter diagnosis were associated with XRT (P < .05). More recent year of diagnosis and urban residence were associated with single‐trip therapy (primarily surgery) (P < .05). There was a significant interaction between travel time and season of diagnosis (P = .03), as well as a marginally significant interaction with urban/rural status (P = .07).

Conclusion

Overall, further travel time to a radiation facility was not associated with lower utilization of XRT. These data are encouraging regarding access to care for CaP in New Hampshire.