bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Antimicrobial peptide GH12 as root canal irrigant inhibits biofilm and virulence of Enterococcus faecalis
Authors: Li Y. , Wang Y. , Chen X. , Jiang W. , Jiang X. , Zeng Y. , Li X. , Feng Z. , Luo J. , Zhang L. 
Published: March 2020

AbstractAimThe objectives of this laboratory‐based study were to investigate the effects of GH12 on Enterococcus faecalis biofilm and virulence.MethodologyMinimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) of GH12 against E. faecalis were first determined. A time‐kill assay was further conducted. The effects of GH12 on the expression of virulence and stress genes in E. faecalis were evaluated by RT‐qPCR. Crystal violet stain was used to investigate the effects of GH12 on E. faecalis biofilm formation and 1‐day‐old biofilm. Finally, an ex vivo tooth model contaminated with E. faecalis was used to evaluate the antimicrobial activity of GH12 as an irrigant by CFU counting, SEM and CLSM. One‐way anova and Tukey’s multiple comparisons test were used to compare the differences amongst groups (α = 0.05).ResultsThe MICs and MBCs of GH12 against E. faecalis were 8.0 ± 0.0 and 16.0 ± 0.0 mg L−1, respectively, and GH12 at 32.0 mg L−1 reduced the bacterial numbers by more than 99.9% within 1 min. Various virulence genes (efaA, esp and gelE) and stress genes (dnaK, groEL, ctsR and clpPBCEX) in E. faecalis were significantly downregulated by GH12 at sub‐MIC levels (P < 0.05). Additionally, both E. faecalis biofilm formation and the biomass of 1‐day‐old E. faecalis biofilm were significantly reduced by GH12 (P < 0.05). Elimination of E. faecalis in biofilms from root canal walls was achieved through irrigation with 64.0 mg L−1 GH12 for 30 min. CLSM analysis revealed that GH12 at 64.0 mg L−1 was most effective in eliminating bacteria within dentinal tubules (P < 0.05).ConclusionIn a laboratory setting, and when used as an irrigant, GH12 suppressed E. faecalis, downregulated specific virulence and stress‐associated genes, eliminated intracanal E. faecalis protected by biofilms and killed bacteria in dentinal tubules. These results emphasize the need for preclinical and clinical studies to explore the potential of GH12 as an antimicrobial agent during root canal treatment.
Frequency and effects of performance appraisal training in applied settings
Authors: Speer Andrew B. , Prewett Matthew S. , Siver Sydney R. 
Published: March 2020

AbstractDespite an established body of research supporting the benefits of rater training on performance appraisal (PA) ratings, it is unclear whether PA training has been widely adopted in the field and what types of PA training are most frequently utilized. This study expanded upon previous research by using a sample of 229 active managers collected via Qualtrics panels to examine the prevalence of various types and instructional contexts of PA training. This research also examined the relationship between training and perceptions of rater preparedness. Collectively, results suggest that PA training is occurring in organizations, that training is perceived favorably, but that the nature and usage of training differs widely.
A systematic review of activities undertaken by the unregulated Nursing Assistant
Authors: Blay Nicole , Roche Michael Anthony 
Published: March 2020

AbstractAimTo identify activities performed by Nursing Assistants in acute and primary healthcare.DesignSystematic review.Data sourcesThe databases MedLine/PubMed, ProQuest and Google Scholar were searched for empirical studies published in the English language between 2008 and 2018 that addressed the work of Nursing Assistants.Review methodsFrom an initial yield of 2,944 publications, 71 publications were retained for full text review and 20 publications included in this review. Activities undertaken by Nursing Assistants from eight countries were extracted and categorized into one of six categories.ResultsOver 200 activities were identified as being delegated to Nurse Assistants globally. Many of these activities are beyond the training of the Nurse Assistant and are being performed with limited Registered Nurse supervision.ConclusionPatient safety is at risk. Nurse Assistants' roles vary widely, with some seeing their role as similar to that of a regulated nurse, while recognizing their need for additional training.ImpactOver 31% of activities delegated to Nurse Assistants require skill and comprehension beyond their level of training. Patients and regulated nurses need to have confidence that Nursing Assistants responsible for care provision are appropriately trained and practicing within regulatory standards.
Experiences of Post Anaesthetic Unit Recovery Nurse facilitating Advanced Directives in the immediate postanaesthetic period: A phenomenological study
Authors: McKinnon Majella , Donnelly Frank , Perry Josephine 
Published: March 2020

AbstractAimsThe aims of this study were to develop an understanding of the lived experience of the Post Anaesthetic Unit Recovery Nurse facilitating Advanced Directives and implications for patient‐centred care.DesignInterpretive phenomenological analysis.MethodsHomogenized purposive sampling of six Registered Nurses using in‐depth semi‐structured interviews. Interviews were conducted between June–July 2018. Analysis was performed using interpretive phenomenology analysis.ResultsPost Anaesthetic Recovery Nurses experienced a ‘Grey Zone’ when facilitating Advanced Directives postanaesthetic. The ‘Grey Zone’ is defined through four themes; The ‘Trigger’ of the anaesthetic characterized by physiological instability; ‘Confusion and Frustration’ featuring balancing of roles as a clinician and advocate during patient decline; ‘Consistent Paternalism’ by medical staff in the consideration of Advanced Directives; and ‘Disempowerment’ where nurses faced issues of advocacy, personal distress, a lack of literature or protocols, and handover of information.ConclusionThe lived experience of nurses facilitating Advanced Directives postanaesthetic may be distressing. Further research is required to understand the implications of Advanced Directives following an anaesthetic. Education and development of protocols are recommended to optimize patient‐centred care.ImpactPost Anaesthetic Unit Recovery Nurses experienced a ‘Grey Zone’ when facilitating Advanced Directives, defined through four themes. Advanced Directives may appear to be clear, however, the anaesthetic may trigger physiological instability leading to confusion and frustration in interpretation and application of Advanced Directives. Confusion and Frustration were experienced while the attitudes of Consistent Paternalism were encountered when advocating for patient wishes, resulting in Disempowerment. Post Anaesthetic Unit Recovery Nurses may become empowered through acknowledging and describing the ‘Grey Zone’.
Immigrant parents’ experiences of accessing child healthcare services in a host country: A qualitative thematic synthesis
Authors: Karim Nadhira , Boyle Breidge , Lohan Maria , Kerr Claire 
Published: March 2020

AbstractAimTo explore voluntary immigrant parents’ experiences of child healthcare services in host countries.DesignThomas and Harden's qualitative thematic synthesis method.Data SourcesFive electronic databases (CINAHL, Medline, PubMed, Psych INFO and Web of Science), were systematically searched from January 2000 ‐ October 2018.Review methodsIncluded studies focused on voluntary migrant/immigrant parents’ experiences of child healthcare services. Data were abstracted independently by two authors. Critical Appraisal Skills Programme tools were applied, and qualitative thematic synthesis was performed.FindingsNine studies were eligible for inclusion. Five descriptive themes were identified: (a) seeking information and reassurance, (b) seeking information from "people like me”, (c) comparison between child healthcare services in home and host countries, (d) effective communication, and (e) cultural isolation and perceived discrimination. Three analytical themes emerged: navigation of parenting in a health context in a new environment; trust; and balance.ConclusionsMany immigrant families reported positive experiences, others felt patronized and disrespected, leading to a lack of trust and making them less willing to access universal child health care. Trusted advocates, who are culturally competent, have a role in helping immigrant parents navigate the child healthcare system and negotiate with healthcare professionals. Health registration of children of immigrants may encourage the uptake of universal healthcare services. More research is required into the specific health needs of voluntary immigrants.ImpactLess is known about the experiences of voluntary immigrants than those of refugees/asylum seekers in accessing child healthcare. Navigating health systems is difficult. This can be due to language difficulties, differences in systems of healthcare, and differences in culture/health beliefs. When both parties have some understanding of the others’ healthcare practices and beliefs, balance can be found; helping the families to positively compare healthcare and incentivising them to engage in universal child healthcare.
Compound sibling caregivers of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities
Authors: Lee Chung eun , Burke Meghan M. , Arnold Catherine K. , Owen Aleksa 
Published: March 2020

AbstractBackgroundGiven the increasing lifespans of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), siblings may fulfil multiple caregiving roles simultaneously for their ageing parents, their offspring, and their brother or sister with IDD. Yet, little is known about compound sibling caregivers. The purpose of this study was to compare the perspectives of compound, single and non‐caregiving siblings of adults with IDD.MethodThis study investigated 332 adult siblings of individuals with IDD in the United States via a national web‐based survey. Participants included: 152 non‐caregivers, 94 single caregivers (i.e., caregivers only for their brothers and sisters with IDD), and 86 compound caregivers (i.e., caregivers for their brothers and sisters with IDD and at least one other vulnerable individual).ResultsSingle and compound sibling caregivers (versus non‐caregivers) had more positive relationships and conducted greater advocacy and future planning activities.ConclusionsGiven the potential for compound sibling caregiving, further investigation is warranted.
Effects of self‐generated graphic organizers on learning depend on in‐task guidance
Authors: Colliot Tiphaine , Jamet Éric 
Published: March 2020

AbstractWe investigated the effects of readymade versus self‐generated graphic organizers (GOs) on learning, comparing the performances of undergraduates (N = 81) tasked with learning a multimedia document. This document was either presented on its own (control group), with a readymade GO, or with a blank GO that students had to fill in either before or during the learning of the document. In line with previous research, adding a readymade GO increased students' memorization and transfer scores, compared with controls. By displaying the main ideas in the text and their hierarchical relations, GOs act as visual aids to learning. Results showed that self‐generating a GO was no more beneficial than viewing a readymade GO when students were placed in a dual‐task situation (generation + learning). However, when the students' information processing was guided by sequencing these tasks (generation then learning), they outperformed the control and readymade groups on memorization and comprehension.
Use of Tregs as a cell‐based therapy via CD39 for benign prostate hyperplasia with inflammation
Authors: Jin Xi , Lin Tianhai , Yang Guang , Cai Huawei , Tang Bo , Liao Xinyang , Li Huifang , Chen Xiaoting , Gong Lina , Xu Hang , Sun Yi , Tan Ping , Yin Jianqiong , Ma Hongwen , Ai Jianzhong , Wang Kunjie , Wei Qiang , Yang Lu , Li Hong 
Published: March 2020

AbstractBenign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) occurs most commonly among older men, often accompanied by chronic tissue inflammation. Although its aetiology remains unclear, autoimmune dysregulation may contribute to BPH. Regulatory T cells (Tregs) prevent autoimmune responses and maintain immune homeostasis. In this study, we aimed to investigate Tregs frequency, phenotype, and function in BPH patients and to evaluate adoptive transfer Tregs for immunotherapy in mice with BPH via CD39. Prostate specimens and peripheral blood from BPH patients were used to investigate Treg subsets, phenotype and Treg‐associated cytokine production. Sorted CD39+/− Tregs from healthy mice were adoptively transferred into mice before or after testosterone propionate administration. The Tregs percentage in peripheral blood from BPH patients was attenuated, exhibiting low Foxp3 and CD39 expression with low levels of serum IL‐10, IL‐35 and TGF‐β. Immunohistochemistry revealed Foxp3+ cells were significantly diminished in BPH prostate with severe inflammatory. Although the Tregs subset was comprised of more effector/memory Tregs, CD39 was still down‐regulated on effector/memory Tregs in BPH patients. Before or after testosterone propionate administration, no alterations of BPH symptoms were observed due to CD39‐ Tregs in mice, however, CD39+Tregs existed more potency than Tregs to regulate prostatic hyperplasia and inhibit inflammation by decreasing IL‐1β and PSA secretion, and increasing IL‐10 and TGF‐β secretion. Furthermore, adoptive transfer with functional Tregs not only improved prostate hyperplasia but also regulated muscle cell proliferation in bladder. Adoptive transfer with Tregs may provide a novel method for the prevention and treatment of BPH clinically.
The Value of Central Clearing
Authors: VUILLEMEY GUILLAUME 
Published: March 2020

ABSTRACTI study a contracting innovation that suddenly insulated traders of hedging contracts against counterparty risk: central clearing counterparties (CCPs) for derivatives. The first CCP was created in Le Havre (France) in 1882, in the coffee futures market. Using triple difference‐in‐differences estimation, I show that central clearing changed the geography of trade flows Europe‐wide, to the benefit of Le Havre. Inspecting the mechanism using trader‐level data, I find that the CCP solved both a “missing market” problem and adverse selection issues. Central clearing also facilitated entry of new traders in the market. The successful contracting innovation quickly spread to other exchanges.
DDIT3 modulates cancer stemness in gastric cancer by directly regulating CEBPβ
Authors: Lin Hai , Liu Shufang , Gao Weidong , Liu Hongyu 
Published: March 2020

Abstract

Objectives
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) have been identified to correlate with the initiation and metastasis of tumours, and DNA damage-inducible transcript 3 (DDIT3) is associated with the poor prognosis in gastric cancer (GC). However, whether DDIT3 mediates CSCs stemness in GC is still unclear.

Methods
Microarray analysis and Gene Ontology (GO) were conducted to identify the differentially expressed genes in GC tissues from GC patients. The interaction between DDIT3 and CEBPβ was determined using immunoprecipitation (IP) analysis.

Key findings
Herein, microarray analysis showed that DDIT3 expression is increased in GC tissues. qRT-PCR confirmed that DDIT3 is significantly increased in GC tissues and cancer cell lines compared with healthy tissues and normal cell lines, individually. Genetic overexpression of DDIT3 enhanced GC cell proliferation, colony-forming ability, sphere formation and CSCs stemness. Mechanistically, DDIT3 directly up-regulated the expression of transcription factor CEBPβ, leading to the increased expression of CSCs markers SOX2, NANOG, OCT4 and CD133 in gastric CSCs. Genetic downregulation of CEBPβ significantly abolishes DDIT3-mediated increased cell proliferation, colony-forming ability, sphere formation and CSCs stemness.

Conclusion
Our results demonstrated that DDIT3 promotes CSCs stemness by up-regulating CEBPβ in GC that provides novel targets for the further GC therapy.
Diabetic versus non‐diabetic rhino‐orbito‐cerebral mucormycosis
Authors: Abdolalizadeh Parya , Kashkouli Mohsen Bahmani , Khademi Behzad , Karimi Nasser , Hamami Parisa , Es'haghi Acieh 
Published: March 2020

SummaryObjectiveTo compare the characteristics and outcomes of rhino‐orbito‐cerebral mucormycosis (ROCM) in diabetic versus non‐diabetic patients.MethodIt is a retrospective comparative case series on consecutive patients with biopsy‐proven ROCM. Systemic and ophthalmic manifestations, imaging, management and final outcomes were compared between diabetic versus non‐diabetic ROCMs referred the eye clinic of a university‐based hospital (2008‐2016).ResultsForty‐three diabetics (55 eyes) with mean age of 54.6 (SD:12.5) years and 20 non‐diabetics (24 eyes) with mean age of 57.5 (SD:13.8) years were enrolled. Patients' survival was observed in 51% of diabetics and 70% of non‐diabetics (P = .1). The mortality rate was 7.4 times (CI95%: 1.85‐29.96) higher in diabetic ROCM treated with non‐liposomal amphotericin (P = .01). Exenteration did not significantly change the mortality rate in either group. Globe survival was 40% and 50% in diabetics and non‐diabetics (P = 1), respectively. Vision survival was observed in 20% of diabetics and 37% of non‐diabetics (P = .2).ConclusionPatients', globe and vision survivals were not different between diabetic and non‐diabetic patients with ROCM. They were 51%, 40% and 20% in diabetic and 70%, 50% and 37% in non‐diabetic ROCM.
Assembly and analysis of the whole genome of Arthroderma uncinatum strain T10, compared with Microsporum canis and Trichophyton rubrum
Authors: Zheng Hailin , Blechert Oliver , Mei Huan , Ge Liyu , Liu Jia , Tao Ye , Li Dongmei , de Hoog G.Sybren , Liu Weida 
Published: March 2020

SummaryBackgroundArthroderma uncinatum is a geophilic dermatophyte that occasionally causes superficial infections in humans leading to skin diseases.ObjectivesTo better understand the ecology and potential pathogenicity of A uncinatum, we analysed its whole genome. We compared A uncinatum with the genome of the zoophilic dermatophyte Microsporum canis and with the anthropophilic species Trichophyton rubrum. The compared species differ significantly in the frequency of human infection.MethodsWe reported the genome sequence of strain T10 of A uncinatum based on SMRT (single‐molecule real‐time) technology (PacBio).ResultsWe obtained a near‐complete 23.56 Mb genome, with 7153 predicted gene models and ~20% repetitive sequences. We subsequently determined the specific genetic differences between A uncinatum, M canis and T rubrum. The functional enrichment analysis suggests that A uncinatum is particularly enriched in specific virulence genes. This suggests that the ancestral condition in dermatophytes is with high virulence, which has decreased in the course of evolution to enhance coexistence with animal or human hosts.
Predictive value of childhood airway hyper‐responsiveness to indirect stimuli: 10‐year longitudinal study
Authors: Lajunen Katariina Tytti , Malmberg Leo Pekka , Kalliola Satu , Kotaniemi‐Syrjänen Anne , Pelkonen Anna Susanna , Mäkelä Mika Juhani 
Published: March 2020

AbstractBackgroundAirway hyper‐responsiveness (AHR) is a common feature in asthma. The use of AHR in predicting active asthma or the persistence of AHR in childhood is poorly understood. By analyzing longitudinal connections including different measures of AHR, lung function, and inflammation markers, we sought to identify the best available method for predicting persistence of AHR and identification of later active asthma.MethodsWe tested 105 asthmatic children aged 3‐7 years with fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO), impulse oscillometry (IOS), and AHR evaluated by indirect methods (hypertonic saline and exercise challenge). Ten years later, 64 children participated in the follow‐up visit and were tested with FeNO, IOS, spirometry, and methacholine challenge. At both study visits, blood samples were collected, and a questionnaire was completed.ResultsAsthma was in remission in 66% of patients at adolescence. AHR measured by hypertonic saline challenge at preschool age was associated with asthma symptoms (OR 10.2; 95% CI 2.8, 37.3) but not with AHR estimated with methacholine challenge 10 years later. AHR measured by exercise challenge was not associated with AHR or recent asthma symptoms in adolescence. Preschool eosinophilia continued until adolescence in 87% of patients but was not associated with AHR or subjective signs of asthma 10 years later. Wheezy preschoolers with atopy had a higher risk for AHR in adolescence (OR 4.1; 95% CI 1.0, 16.2).ConclusionResults from hypertonic saline challenge are associated with persistent asthma symptoms even after a decade. AHR measured by indirect methods at preschool age did not predict AHR in adolescence.
Interpregnancy interval and hypertensive disorders of pregnancy: A population‐based cohort study
Authors: Gebremedhin Amanuel T. , Regan Annette K. , Ball Stephen , Betrán Ana P. , Foo Damien , Gissler Mika , Håberg Siri E. , Malacova Eva , Marinovich Michael Luke , Pereira Gavin 
Published: March 2020

AbstractBackgroundDespite extensive research on risk factors and mechanisms, the extent to which interpregnancy interval (IPI) affects hypertensive disorders of pregnancy in high‐income countries remains unclear.ObjectivesTo examine the association between IPI and hypertensive disorders of pregnancy in a high‐income country setting using both within‐mother and between‐mother comparisons.MethodsA retrospective population‐based cohort study was conducted among 103 909 women who delivered three or more consecutive singleton births (n = 358 046) between 1980 and 2015 in Western Australia. We used conditional Poisson regression with robust variance, matching intervals of the same mother and adjusted for factors that vary within‐mother across pregnancies, to investigate the association between IPI categories (reference 18‐23 months), and the risk of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy. For comparison with previous studies, we also applied unmatched Poisson regression (between‐mother analysis).ResultsThe incidence of preeclampsia and gestational hypertension during the study period was 4%, and 2%, respectively. For the between‐mother comparison, mothers with intervals of 6‐11 months had lower risk of preeclampsia with adjusted relative risk (RR) 0.92 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.85, 0.98) compared to reference category of 18‐23 months. With the within‐mother matched design, we estimated a larger effect of long IPI on risk of preeclampsia (RR 1.29, 95% CI 1.18, 1.42 for 60‐119 months; and RR 1.30, 95% CI 1.10, 1.53 for intervals ≥120 months) compared to 18‐23 months. Short IPIs were not associated with hypertensive disorders of pregnancy.ConclusionsIn our cohort, longer IPIs were associated with increased risk of preeclampsia. However, there was insufficient evidence to suggest that short IPIs (<6 months) increase the risks of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy.
Incentivizing Regulatory Participation: Effectiveness of a Fundraising Levy
Authors: Rutherford Alasdair C. , McDonnell Diarmuid , Hogg Eddy 
Published: March 2020

AbstractIn the absence of a statutory instrument to enforce payment of a regulatory fee, regulators must rely on a combination of “carrots” and “sticks” to encourage financial contributions by the organizations they oversee. In contrast to studies of public funding of nonprofits, this article empirically evaluates the effectiveness of a government policy to rely on nonprofit funding of statutory regulation. The authors exploit a sharp discontinuity in the eligibility threshold for charities contributing to the new Fundraising Regulator in England and Wales to estimate a causal effect of the levy on participation. The article shows that the regulator's threat to “name and shame” was effective at incentivizing regulatory participation and generating income, but it raises some concerns about the long‐term viability of this approach. The results are significant at a time when many jurisdictions are considering how best to fund the regulation of nonprofits.