bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The effect of secukinumab treatment on inflammatory parameters in patients with psoriasis: A multicentre restrospective study
Authors: An İsa , Aksoy Mustafa , Ayhan Erhan , Ozturk Murat 
Published: February 2021

AbstractAimPsoriasis is a common chronic inflammatory disease of the skin with remission and relapses. The aim of this study was to investigate the change in inflammatory parameters such as neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet/lymphocyte ratio (PLR) and mean platelet volume (MPV) in patients receiving secukinumab treatment for psoriasis vulgaris (PV).Materials and methodsIn this retrospective study, we evaluated the laboratory results of 40 patients who were followed up with a diagnosis of PV and received secukinumab treatment in three different dermatology clinics between July 2018 and September 2019.ResultsNeutrophil count and leukocyte count were significantly decreased after secukinumab treatment. (P < .001) There was no statistically significant difference between lymphocyte count, platelet count, MPV, NLR and PLR values before treatment and at the 4th month of treatment (P values .230, .065, .110, .915 and .365, respectively).ConclusionIn conclusion, it can be concluded that parameters such as NLR, PLR and MPV are not suitable parameters for monitoring the effects of secukinumab treatment on inflammation.
Decision difficulties of long‐term‐care facility nurses in transferring residents to the emergency department: A cross‐sectional nationwide study
Authors: Chen Bor‐An , Lai Fu‐Chih , Tsao Lee‐Ing , Chien Hui‐Hui , Chen Chun‐Fu , Jeng Chii 
Published: February 2021

AbstractAimsTo examine the level of decision difficulties of long‐term‐care facility (LTCF) nurses when transferring residents to the emergency department (ED) and associated influencing factors.DesignA cross‐sectional nationwide study.MethodsThe LTCFs were selected through random stratified sampling across the whole Taiwan during February 2018 to January 2019. LTCF nurses who met the selection criteria were invited to participate with two or three nurses selected from each LTCF. The Patient Transfer Decision Difficulty Scale (PTDDS) was used to measure the level of difficulty in making decisions related to the transfer of residents to the ED. Data were collected by mailing the questionnaires and asking the nurses to return the completed form in 2 weeks. Data were analysed using simple linear regression and multiple regression with stepwise methods.ResultsIn total, 618 valid questionnaires with an 85.32% response rate from 319 LTCFs were used for the data analysis. Decision difficulties that LTCF nurses experienced were moderate, the nursing personnel‐bed ratio, LTCF professional training and basic life support training were predictive factors of the level of difficulty experience (scores of PTDDS) for the LTCF nurse (F = 6.81, p < .001).ConclusionsEnhancing emergency training in LTCF can improve nurses' decision‐making ability to refer LTCF residents to emergency treatment.Impact

What problem did the study address? The study addressed the difficult decision LTCF nurses may experience when transferring a resident to the emergency department.

What were the main findings? All LTCF nurses faced a moderate level of difficulty in decision‐making. ‘Transfer timing’ was most often considered in the decision‐making process when a resident was transferred to the ED.

Where and on whom will the research have impact? Results of this study have considerable reference value for LTCF managers and nurses in the decision‐making ability and suitability of transferring residents for emergency treatment.
Predictors of myocardial recovery in arrhythmia‐induced cardiomyopathy: A multicenter study
Authors: Gopinathannair Rakesh , Dhawan Rahul , Lakkireddy Dhanunjaya R. , Murray Andrew , Angus Christopher R. , Farid Talha , Mar Philip L. , Atkins Donita , Olshansky Brian 
Published: February 2021

AbstractBackgroundArrhythmia‐induced cardiomyopathy (AIC) is characterized by improvement in left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) following arrhythmia treatment. Predictors of recovery in LVEF are not well understood.ObjectiveWe evaluated predictors of AIC recovery in a large multicenter cohort.MethodsIn total, 243 patients (age 65 ± 11, 73% male) with AIC caused by atrial fibrillation (49%), atrial tachycardia (20%), and premature ventricular contractions (PVCs; 31%) were treated and included. LVEF was assessed before and after treatment. Patients were stratified by arrhythmia duration (known [KN, n = 132] vs. unknown [UKN, n = 111]), arrhythmia type, LVEF, and presence of structural heart disease (SHD).ResultsArrhythmia treatment was rhythm control in 95%. Median arrhythmia duration in the KN group was 47 months (25–75th percentile, 24–80 months). Post treatment LVEF was higher in KN group (55.9 ± 7 vs. 46.2 ± 12%; p < .0001) but the degree of LVEF improvement was similar (21.2 ± 9 vs. 19.4 ± 11; p = .16). Comparing highest quartile (longest arrhythmia duration) versus the rest of the KN group, the extent of LVEF improvement was similar (21.5 ± 8 vs. 21 ± 9%; p = .1). Patients in lowest index LVEF quartile (n = 74) had more PVC‐induced AIC, greater EF improvement after treatment (24 ± 17 vs. 19 ± 7%; p < .0001) but lower post treatment EF (45 ± 14 vs. 54 ± 8%; p < .0001) versus other patients. Patients with SHD had lower index EF (28 ± 8 vs. 34 ± 8%; p < .0001) and lower final EF (47 ± 12 vs. 56 ± 7; p ≪ .0001). In multivariate regression, low index LVEF predicted myocardial recovery (odds ratio, 11.4; p < .005).ConclusionsIn this AIC cohort, LVEF improved regardless of arrhythmia duration or type but those with PVCs had lower index LVEF and had less recovery. Low index LVEF predicted LVEF recovery following arrhythmia treatment.
Effects of early crush on aging wild type and Connexin 32 knockout mice: Evidence for a neuroprotective state in CMT1X mouse nerve
Authors: Peinado Alejandro , Asche‐ Godin Samantha L. , Freidin Mona M. , Abrams Charles K. 
Published: February 2021

AbstractThe long‐term sequelae of nerve injury as well as age‐related neurodegeneration have been documented in numerous studies, however the role of Cx32 in these processes is not well understood. There is a need for better understanding of the molecular mechanisms that underlie long‐term suboptimal nerve function and for approaches to prevent or improve it. In this communication we describe our studies using whole animal electrophysiology to examine the long‐term sequelae of sciatic nerve crush in both WT and Cx32KO mice, a model of X‐linked Charcot Marie Tooth disease, a subtype of inherited peripheral neuropathies. We present results from electrical nerve recordings done 14 to 27 days and 18 to 20 months after a unilateral sciatic nerve crush performed on 35 to 37‐day old mice. Contrary to expectations, we find that whereas crush injury leads to a degradation of WT nerve function relative to uninjured nerves at 18 to 20 months, previously crushed Cx32KO nerves perform at the same level as their uninjured counterparts. Thus, 18 to 20 months after injury, WT nerves perform below the level of normal (uninjured) WT nerves in both motor and sensory nerve function. In contrast, measures of nerve function in Cx32KO mice are degraded for sensory axons but exhibit no additional dysfunction in motor axons. Early nerve injury has no negative electrophysiologic effect on the Cx32 KO motor nerves. Based on our prior demonstration that the transcriptomic profile of uninjured Cx32KO and injured WT sciatic nerves are very similar, the lack of an additional effect of crush on Cx32KO motor nerve parameters suggests that Cx32 knockout may implement a form of neuroprotection that limits the effects of subsequent injury.
Association between the dental occlusion and perceived ability to eat foods of Taiwanese older adults
Authors: Lin Ying‐Chun , Du Je‐Kang , Lin Pei‐Chen , Kabasawa Yuji , Lin Pi‐Li , Hsiao Szu‐Yu , Huang Hsiao‐Ling 
Published: February 2021

AbstractTooth loss is a common problem among older adults that affects masticatory function (MF) and food selection. Financial burden is a reason that some older adults in Taiwan with this condition forgo dental restoration. To identify the number of posterior occlusal support areas (POSAs) associated with MF. Large‐scale cross‐sectional study included 1100 community‐dwelling participants of Taiwan aged ≥65 years. Participants completed dental examination and questionnaires through personal interviews. Masticatory performance was evaluated using a colour‐changeable chewing gum. Masticatory ability was evaluated on the basis of how many of 14 common foods the participants were able to eat. Participants were grouped into 10 categories (A1‐A3, B1‐B4 and C1‐C3) according to the Eichner index (EI) of posterior occlusal contacts. Multivariable regression models were used to analyse the association between the EI groups and MF. More than 80% of the participants with two or more POSAs (those in groups A1‐B2) could easily eat various foods. Compared with those in groups A1‐B2, those in groups in B3, B4, C1, C2 and C3 exhibited a significantly different masticatory performance (all P < .001) and significantly higher difficulty in eating fruits and vegetables. A dose‐response effect between POSAs and perceived masticatory ability to eat fruits and vegetables was observed (P < .05 for both trends). Preservation of at least two POSAs is essential for MF. Older adults with tooth loss can undergo the restoration of two POSAs to improve MF and increase food intake.
Assessment of kidney disease knowledge among chronic kidney disease patients in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Authors: Almutary Hayfa H. 
Published: February 2021

AbstractBackgroundThe persistent global increase in chronic kidney disease (CKD) prevalence highlights the importance of providing patients with sufficient knowledge to allow them to self‐manage their disease.ObjectivesTo gain insights into non‐dialysis CKD patients' knowledge of their disease, and assess associations between knowledge and sample characteristics.DesignA descriptive cross‐sectional design was undertaken.ParticipantsA convenience sample of 203 stages 3–5 CKD patients was recruited.MeasurementsThe Kidney Disease Knowledge Survey (KiKs) was used.ResultsThis study revealed that the mean age of the patients was 47.34 years. 50.2% were male and most (75.9%) were married. The mean score of knowledge (measured using KiKs) relating to kidney disease was 17.87 ± 3.212. The lowest scores were related to knowledge of effects of proteinuria (13.3%), meanings of “glomerular filtration rate” (29.6%) and “targeted blood pressure” (31.5%). Although more than 60% of participants knew about some kidney functions, they misunderstood others, including those related to glucose control (23.6%) and blood pressure (54.7%). Patients displayed knowledge scores >70% for five other areas, including disease stage and time since diagnosis. Almost all participants did not know that chronic kidney disease (CKD) could be asymptomatic. The results showed that late‐stage CKD (Stages 4 and 5) and longer time since diagnosis of CKD were independently associated with a higher score of knowledge (r = 0.18, p = 0.017; r = 0.41, p < 0.001; r = 0.26, p = 0.001, respectively).ConclusionsThis study provided initial insights on CKD‐related knowledge among patients with Stage 3–5 CKD in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Many gaps in knowledge were identified, especially those relating to blood pressure. More studies are required to fully understand the extent of the knowledge deficit in the wider population; however, these findings will allow nurses to address significant gaps.
Novel handheld ultrasound technology to enhance non‐expert screening for rheumatic heart disease in the Republic of Palau: A descriptive study
Authors: Voleti Sonia , Adelbai Myra , Hovis Ian , Colyer Jessica , Burns Kristin M , Lewis Elway Olkeriil , Arurang Jason Kalei , Kikuharu Allyne , Gonzales Maanne , Pedro Sheila Judy , Zimmerman Meghan , Krishnan Anita , Beaton Andrea , Sable Craig , Dougherty Scott 
Published: February 2021

AimNon‐expert training in rheumatic heart disease (RHD) detection is a valuable strategy in resource‐limited settings. Here we present an innovative handheld ultrasound application featuring views of correct probe position, imaging protocol and echocardiographic loops of RHD pathology versus normal, accessible during real‐time scanning.MethodsThis prospective study was implemented into a pre‐existing school health screening programme at an elementary school in Koror, Palau. Six learners with no prior ultrasound experience were taught a simplified screening protocol in which a mitral regurgitation jet ≥1.5 cm and/or presence of aortic insufficiency were considered a positive screen. All consented children underwent echocardiographic screening by experts with standard portable echocardiography. All positive cases and 25% of negative cases were referred for handheld scans by learners.ResultsA total of 26 (4.1%) children were diagnosed with borderline or definite RHD. Mean sensitivity and specificity compared to expert RHD diagnosis over all learners was 71% (standard deviation (SD) 11.3) and 92% (SD 4.9), respectively. For the three highest scanning learners, mean sensitivity was 88% (SD 4.9) and mean specificity was 90% (SD 5.7). For all definite RHD cases, sensitivity was 100% for all but one learner, who achieved sensitivity of 60%. The novel application was used in 229 of 624 (36%) of all handheld scans and 50 of 112 (45%) of expert‐diagnosed positive scans, with protocol and reference features most frequently used. Utilisation of the novel application overall decreased per day of scanning per learner.ConclusionAdjunctive handheld ultrasound technology may help ease non‐experts into RHD screening.
Changes in Religious Doubt and Physical and Mental Health in Emerging Adulthood
Authors: Upenieks Laura 
Published: February 2021

AbstractResearchers are increasingly identifying a number of elements of the “dark side” of religion that undermine its overall positive relationship with well‐being. This study assesses the impact of changes in religious doubt for physical health and depression in emerging adulthood, a life course stage when individuals begin to form their own religious identity. Using Waves 3 and 4 of the National Study of Youth and Religion, a latent class growth analysis was used to derive four trajectories of religious doubt (stable no doubt, stable doubt, increasing doubt, decreasing doubt). Regression results suggest that those in the increasing doubt class reported higher depression and worse self‐rated health than with stable no doubt. Causal mediation analyses revealed that a decreased sense of meaning in life was found to mediate this relationship. This study sets forth implications for future research centered on religion and health over the life course.
Insights into marine otter (Lontra felina) distribution along the Peru coastline
Authors: Ortiz‐Alvarez Clara , Alfaro‐Shigueto Joanna , Mangel Jeffrey C. 
Published: February 2021

AbstractThe marine otter (Lontra felina) has a patchy distribution associated with rocky coastlines along the Pacific coast of South America. In Peru marine otters are found from La Libertad (8°04′S) to Tacna (18°09′S), however, few studies have assessed its population and conservation status. To assess marine otters' current distribution along the Peru coastline, we conducted visual surveys and collected environmental characteristics such as human presence and habitat type. We surveyed 20 locations from five regions where otter presence was based on signs of detection (spraints, food leftovers, tracks, or direct observations). In addition, data on human presence, habitat type, and geographic location were also collected. Across the 20 locations, 268 sections were scanned, and marine otters were detected in 90% (n = 18) of locations and in 19% (n = 52) of sections. Spraints were the most frequent sign detected while direct observations occurred only in seven locations. Our analysis indicates habitat features play an important role in marine otter presence, with habitats with large rocks providing preferred conditions. Our study provides information on marine otter distribution along the Peru coastline that can assist in the identification of locations for focused conservation initiatives and strategies, which should be coordinated among regions to strengthen their design and implementation.
Novice nurses' readiness to practice in an ICU: A qualitative study
Authors: Serafin Lena , Pawlak Natalia , Strząska‐Kliś Zuzanna , Bobrowska Anna , Czarkowska‐Pączek Bożena 
Published: February 2021

AbstractBackgroundNovice nurses (newly qualified within the first 3‐year period of professional practice after registration) must first face the reality and complexity of caring for high‐acuity patients in the critical care setting, which can be an unfamiliar and demanding environment. The successful transition from education to professional practice of novice nurses hired for intensive care must be supported.AimTo explore Polish novice nurses' readiness to practice in an intensive care unit (ICU). Our study objectives included investigating pre‐registration preparation for work in an ICU, identifying the most needed competencies to work in an ICU, and analysing organizational aspects of the professional orientation period.Study designA qualitative phenomenology design was applied.MethodsWe conducted qualitative content analysis based on individual semi‐structured in‐depth interviews. Study recruitment was performed using a purposeful and network sampling strategy. The final number of participants was 17 Polish novice nurses.ResultsThe majority of responders replied that they were not prepared to work in an ICU after graduation. Professional orientation was planned—generally for a period of 3 months; however, in most places it was shortened. The respondents identified the five competencies most needed to work in an ICU: communication, teamwork, professional self‐confidence, and knowledge and its practical use. Their enhancement could be achieved through simulations during both pre‐registration and professional training.ConclusionAnalysis of the novice nurses' orientation period revealed many difficulties that indicated a lack of readiness to practice in an ICU after graduation. Identifying novice nurses' strengths and weaknesses regarding clinical competence is important to guide the design of orientation programmes in ICU settings and nursing education programmes.Relevance to clinical practiceReadiness for ICU work may be improved by enriching education with simulations that enable training in the practical use of knowledge and critical care procedures. A supportive work environment is crucial during professional orientation.
Impact of different training modalities on anthropometric outcomes in patients with obesity: A systematic review and network meta‐analysis
Authors: Morze Jakub , Rücker Gerta , Danielewicz Anna , Przybyłowicz Katarzyna , Neuenschwander Manuela , Schlesinger Sabrina , Schwingshackl Lukas 
Published: February 2021

SummaryObesity management guidelines consistently advise aerobic training for weight loss, whereas recommendations for other training modalities are sparse. This systematic review and network meta‐analysis (NMA) aimed to compare the long‐term effects of different training modalities on anthropometric outcomes in patients with obesity. MEDLINE, Cochrane CENTRAL, and Web of Science were searched to identify the following: (1) randomized controlled trials (RCTs); (2) conducted in adults with a mean body mass index (BMI) ≥30 kg/m2; (3) comparing aerobic, resistance, combined, or high‐intensity interval training head‐to‐head or to control for ≥6 months; and (4) reporting changes in body weight (BW), BMI, waist circumference (WC), fat mass (FM), or fat‐free mass (FFM). Random‐effects NMA models were fitted in a frequentist approach. GRADE framework was used to assess certainty of evidence. Thirty‐two RCTs with 4774 participants with obesity were included in this review. Aerobic training was ranked as best for improving BW, BMI, and WC and combined training for improving FM, as well as equally with resistance training most effective for improving FFM. Low to moderate certainty of evidence supports use of aerobic training to improve anthropometric outcomes in obesity, and its combination with resistance training provides additional benefit for reducing FM and increasing FFM.
The prognostic value of J‐wave pattern for recurrence of ventricular tachycardia after catheter ablation in patients with myocardial infarction
Authors: Naruse Yoshihisa , de Riva Marta , Watanabe Masaya , Wijnmaalen Adrianus P. , Venlet Jeroen , Timmer Marnix , Schalij Martin J. , Zeppenfeld Katja 
Published: February 2021

AbstractBackgroundJ‐waves and fragmented QRS (fQRS) on surface ECGs have been associated with the occurrence of ventricular tachyarrhythmias. Whether these non‐invasive parameters can also predict ventricular tachycardia (VT) recurrence after radiofrequency catheter ablation (RFCA) is unknown. Of interest, patients with a wide QRS‐complex have been excluded from clinical studies on J‐waves, although a J‐wave like pattern has been described for wide QRS.MethodsWe retrospectively included 168 patients (67 ± 10 years; 146 men) who underwent RFCA of post‐infarct VT. J‐wave pattern were defined as J‐point elevation ≥ 0.1 mV in at least two leads irrespective of QRS width. fQRS was defined as various RSR` pattern in patients with narrow QRS and more than two R wave in those with wide QRS. The primary endpoint was VT recurrence after RFCA up to 24 months.ResultsJ‐wave pattern and fQRS were present in 27 and 28 patients, respectively. Overlap of J‐wave pattern and fQRS was observed in nine. During a median follow‐up of 20 (interquartile range 9–24) months, 46 (27%) patients had VT recurrence. Kaplan–Meier curves revealed that both J‐wave pattern and fQRS were associated with VT recurrence. Multivariate Cox regression analysis demonstrated that the presence of J‐wave pattern (hazard ratio [HR] 2.84; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.45–5.58; P = .002) and greater number of induced VT (HR 1.29; 95% CI 1.15–1.45; P < .001) were the independent predictors of VT recurrence.ConclusionsA J‐wave pattern—but not fQRS—is independently associated with an increased risk of post‐infarct VT recurrence after RFCA irrespective of QRS width. This simple non‐invasive parameter may identify patients who require additional treatment.
Photochemical Synthesis of Lactic Acid Esters at Ambient Temperature Employing Sulfonically Fuctionalized N/W‐Doped Nano‐semiconductor
Authors: Verma Priyanka , Wanchoo Ravinder Kumar , Toor Amri Pal 
Published: February 2021

AbstractAppreciating the wide array of applications of lactic acid esters in the flavoring industry as well as in cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries, respectively, their clean and green synthesis gain immense importance. Therefore, traditional ester synthesis processes, involving high‐temperature requirements, need to be replaced. A photochemical route has been adopted where visible light illumination was used as the major driving force to synthesize lactic acid esters. This process involves the application of sulfonically functionalized nitrogen/tungsten‐doped nanotitania as photocatalysts. These functionalized catalysts efficiently and repeatedly catalyzed the esterification of lactic acid at ambient temperature. The photo‐activity of these catalysts is attributed to the presence of a large number of active sulfonate sites on its surface. As per the proposed photochemical mechanism, illumination initiates the electron discharge from the conduction band, which migrates toward absorbed lactic acid through sulfonate sites forming lactic acid radical. This radical in turn attracts the alcohol molecules producing the desired ester. Reaction parameters were optimized to maximize the product yield. The economic validity of the photocatalyst was specked by repetitive experiments, and both the catalysts were found to be efficient even after five reusability cycles. The development of these catalysts can completely replace commercial ester synthesis strategies.