bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Novel ecological and climatic conditions drive rapid adaptation in invasive Florida Burmese pythons
Authors: Card Daren C. , Perry Blair W. , Adams Richard H. , Schield Drew R. , Young Acacia S. , Andrew Audra L. , Jezkova Tereza , Pasquesi Giulia I.M. , Hales Nicole R. , Walsh Matthew R. , Rochford Michael R. , Mazzotti Frank J. , Hart Kristen M. , Hunter Margaret E. , Castoe Todd A. 
Published: September 2018

AbstractInvasive species provide powerful in situ experimental systems for studying evolution in response to selective pressures in novel habitats. While research has shown that phenotypic evolution can occur rapidly in nature, few examples exist of genomewide adaptation on short “ecological” timescales. Burmese pythons (Python molurus bivittatus) have become a successful and impactful invasive species in Florida over the last 30 years despite major freeze events that caused high python mortality. We sampled Florida Burmese pythons before and after a major freeze event in 2010 and found evidence for directional selection in genomic regions enriched for genes associated with thermosensation, behaviour and physiology. Several of these genes are linked to regenerative organ growth, an adaptive response that modulates organ size and function with feeding and fasting in pythons. Independent histological and functional genomic data sets provide additional layers of support for a contemporary shift in invasive Burmese python physiology. In the Florida population, a shift towards maintaining an active digestive system may be driven by the fitness benefits of maintaining higher metabolic rates and body temperature during freeze events. Our results suggest that a synergistic interaction between ecological and climatic selection pressures has driven adaptation in Florida Burmese pythons, demonstrating the often‐overlooked potential of rapid adaptation to influence the success of invasive species.
A research agenda for seed‐trait functional ecology
Authors: Saatkamp Arne , Cochrane Anne , Commander Lucy , Guja Lydia K.  , Jimenez‐Alfaro Borja , Larson Julie , Nicotra Adrienne  , Poschlod Peter , Silveira Fernando A. O. , Cross Adam T. , Dalziell Emma L. , Dickie John , Erickson Todd E. , Fidelis Alessandra , Fuchs Anne , Golos Peter J. , Hope Michael , Lewandrowski Wolfgang , Merritt David J. , Miller Ben P. , Miller Russell G.  , Offord Catherine A. , Ooi Mark K. J. , Satyanti Annisa  , Sommerville Karen D. , Tangney Ryan , Tomlinson Sean  , Turner Shane , Walck Jeffrey L. 
Published: September 2018

SummaryTrait‐based approaches have improved our understanding of plant evolution, community assembly and ecosystem functioning. A major challenge for the upcoming decades is to understand the functions and evolution of early life‐history traits, across levels of organization and ecological strategies. Although a variety of seed traits are critical for dispersal, persistence, germination timing and seedling establishment, only seed mass has been considered systematically. Here we suggest broadening the range of morphological, physiological and biochemical seed traits to add new understanding on plant niches, population dynamics and community assembly. The diversity of seed traits and functions provides an important challenge that will require international collaboration in three areas of research. First, we present a conceptual framework for a seed ecological spectrum that builds upon current understanding of plant niches. We then lay the foundation for a seed‐trait functional network, the establishment of which will underpin and facilitate trait‐based inferences. Finally, we anticipate novel insights and challenges associated with incorporating diverse seed traits into predictive evolutionary ecology, community ecology and applied ecology. If the community invests in standardized seed‐trait collection and the implementation of rigorous databases, major strides can be made at this exciting frontier of functional ecology.
Analysis of the drivers of Ghana's energy demand change using the Laspeyres index method of decomposition: Q‐effect, I‐effect and S‐effect
Authors: Akrofi Benjamin , Ackah Ishmael , Sakyi Daniel 
Published: October 2018

AbstractSince independence, Ghana has experienced four major power crises as a result of the low water level in the hydro dams to generate the required amount of power for the country as well as limited and expensive supply of crude oil and gas. These energy supply constraints make it imperative for the country to rely on demand‐side management policies to address the energy crisis of the country. However, demand‐side management policies that are applied in generic terms without knowing the exact cause are likely to fail. This study therefore decomposes the factors that influence energy consumption into activity effect, intensity effect and structural effect, so that policymakers will know which factor(s) and also the sectors of the economy that are responsible for the large increases in energy consumption. This way, policymakers will apply the appropriate demand‐side management policy to a particular factor(s) and the sectors causing the increase to get the desired results. The study finds that activity effect is the main driver of energy consumption in Ghana.
Influence of the Menstrual Cycle Phase on Pain Perception and Analgesic Requirements in Young Women Undergoing Gynecological Laparoscopy
Authors: Piroli Alba , Mattei Antonella , Carta Gaspare , D'Alfonso Angela , Palermo Patrizia , Marinangeli Franco , Alfonsi Benedetta , Testa Ambra , Pasquale Chiara , Varrassi Giustino , Paladini Antonella 
Published: September 2018

AbstractContextThe influence of the gonadal hormones on some aspects of the human physiology has been studied with uncertain results. Still a confusion exists in relation to the real effects of the female hormones on the perception of pain. The existing data refer mainly to experimental studies and have provided results not always useful in the clinical practice.Data sourceThis study was designed to detect whether there are differences in the perception of the postoperative pain in women, during two clearly defined phases of hormonal asset: luteal and follicular phases.ConclusionThe results of this study have demonstrated that in postoperative female patients pain is perceived significantly more in the luteal phase of the menstrual period, than in the follicular phase. This could suggest that female in child‐bearing age should be scheduled for elective surgery preferentially during the follicular phase, unless differently necessary. It would guarantee a more comfortable postoperative period, with reduced necessity of analgesics.
Differences in Characteristics and Downstream Drug Use Among Opioid‐Naïve and Prior Opioid Users with Low Back Pain
Authors: DiMarco Lindsay A. , Ramger Benjamin C. , Howell Gregory P. , Serrani Ali M. , Givens Deborah L. , Rhon Daniel I. , Cook Chad E. 
Published: September 2018

AbstractBackgroundRecent clinical practice guidelines have suggested conservative treatment approaches, including physical therapy, are indicated as first‐line treatment for patients with low back pain (LBP); however, LBP continues to be managed with opioids, despite decreases in function, morbidity, and insignificant improvements in pain.ObjectiveThe primary purpose was to compare characteristics and downstream medication use between patients with LBP with prior opioid exposure vs. those who were opioid‐naïve. The secondary purpose was to explore the role of prior opioid use by LBP disability.MethodsSeven hundred and nine participants in a LBP self‐management class were evaluated utilizing self‐report data at baseline and longitudinal claims data from the Military Health System Data Repository. Participants were dichotomized into opioid‐naïve and prior opioid use groups and then further divided into low and high disability groups based on Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) scores. Patient characteristics, comorbidities, and medication use were compared between groups.ResultsPrior opioid users had significantly higher baseline ODI and Fear Avoidance Beliefs Questionnaire physical activity subscale and work subscale scores as well as pre‐index instances of mental health disorders, chronic pain, and insomnia than opioid‐naïve individuals. Prior opioid users filled significantly more pain medication prescriptions in the year after the index date than did opioid‐naïve individuals. Prior opioid users were significantly more likely to be taking opioids at 1 year after the index date, regardless of disability level.ConclusionIn patients presenting with LBP, prior opioid exposure appears to be related to increased analgesic use (opioid and non‐opioid) and longitudinal analgesic utilization at 1 year after the index date.
Short‐Term Glucocorticoid Treatment Normalizes the Microcirculatory Response to Remote Ischemic Conditioning in Early Complex Regional Pain Syndrome
Authors: Kumowski Nina , Hegelmaier Tobias , Kolbenschlag Jonas , Mainka Tina , Michel‐Lauter Beate , Maier Christoph 
Published: September 2018

AbstractBackgroundThe early phase of complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is characterized by an inflammatory state and therefore often treated with anti‐inflammatory acting glucocorticoids. Recently, we demonstrated that remote ischemic conditioning (RIC), a cyclic application of nondamaging ischemia on a remote extremity, reduces blood flow and increases oxygen extraction in theCRPS‐affected extremity.AimThe aim of the presented study was to analyze the effect of short‐term pain treatment including glucocorticoid pulse treatment on theRIC‐induced perfusion parameters.MethodIndependently from the study, pain treatment was started with an oral glucocorticoid pulse (180 to 360 mg prednisolone) in 12 patients withCRPS(disease duration < 1 year).RICwas conducted before and after pulse treatment. Three cycles of 5 minutes ischemia and 10 minutes reperfusion were applied to the contralateral limb. Blood flow, tissue oxygenation, and oxygen extraction fraction were assessed ipsilateral before and duringRIC. Current pain was assessed on the numeric rating scale (0 to 10), and finger–palm distance was measured.ResultsPain level (5.8 ± 1.5 vs. 3.1 ± 1.1) and finger–palm distance (5 ± 1.9 cm vs. 3.7 ± 1.9 cm) were decreased significantly by the treatment.RICdecreased blood flow by 32.8% ± 42.8% (P < 0.05) and increased oxygen extraction fraction by 8.5% ± 10.3% (P < 0.05) solely before the treatment. After treatment, all parameters remained unchanged afterRIC(P < 0.05 vs. before), comparable to healthy subjects.ConclusionConfirming previous results,RICpresumably unmasks luxury perfusion in untreatedCRPSpatients. In accordance with the clinical improvement, the short‐term pain treatment with glucocorticoids as major component normalizes impaired perfusion. These results might underline the rationale for anti‐inflammatory treatment in early‐phaseCRPS.
Chronic Pain in Breast Cancer Survivors: Nociceptive, Neuropathic, or Central Sensitization Pain?
Authors: Leysen Laurence , Adriaenssens Nele , Nijs Jo , Pas Roselien , Bilterys Thomas , Vermeir Sofie , Lahousse Astrid , Beckwée David 
Published: September 2018

AbstractIntroductionThe differentiation between acute and chronic pain can be insufficient for appropriate pain management. The aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of the predominant pain type (nociceptive, neuropathic, or central sensitization [CS] pain) in breast cancer survivors (BCS) with chronic pain. The secondary aims were to examine (1) differences in health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) between the different pain groups; and (2) the associations between patient‐, disease‐, and treatment‐related factors and the different pain types.MethodsTo determine the prevalence of the predominant type of pain, a recently proposed classification system was used. BCS were asked to complete the VAS for pain, Douleur Neuropathique 4 Questionnaire, Margolis Pain Diagram, Central Sensitization Inventory, and Short Form 36 (SF‐36).ResultsNinety‐one BCS participated, among whom 25.3% presented neuropathic pain, 18.7% nociceptive pain, and 15.4% CS pain. Mixed pain was found in 40.6%. A significant intergroup difference in HRQoL was found for SF‐36 “general health” (P = 0.04). The odds for the presence of CS rather than nociceptive pain are 26 times higher in patients exposed to hormone therapy in comparison to the nonexposed (odds ratio 25.95, 95% confidence interval 1.33 to 504.37, P = 0.03).ConclusionNeuropathic pain is most frequent in BCS. Strong associations were found between CS pain and hormone therapy.
Comparison of Ultrasound‐Guided Supraclavicular and Interscalene Brachial Plexus Blocks in Postoperative Pain Management After Arthroscopic Shoulder Surgery
Authors: Karaman Tugba , Karaman Serkan , Aşçı Murat , Tapar Hakan , Şahin Aynur , Dogru Serkan , Suren Mustafa 
Published: September 2018

AbstractBackgroundThe interscalene brachial plexus block (ISBB) is an effective procedure for minimizing postoperative opioid consumption and pain following arthroscopic shoulder surgery. The ultrasound (US)‐guided supraclavicular brachial plexus block (SCBB) seems to be an alternative technique for arthroscopic shoulder surgery. However, evidence is lacking regarding the impact of SCBB on postoperative pain management and recovery after arthroscopic shoulder surgery. The aim of this study was to compare the effects of SCBB with ISBB in terms of postoperative pain and quality of recovery after arthroscopic shoulder surgery.MethodsA total of 62 adult patients scheduled for arthroscopic shoulder surgery under general anesthesia were randomized into 2 groups to receive either ISBB (IB group, n = 31) or SCBB (SB group, n = 29) with 20 mL of 0.25% bupivacaine under US guidance. Assessments included postoperative pain scores, additional analgesic requirement, timing of the first analgesic requirement, Quality of Recovery‐40 (QoR‐40) scores, block characteristics, and side effects.ResultsNo significant differences were found between the 2 groups for pain scores (P = 0.34), timing of first analgesic requirement (P = 0.30), additional analgesic requirement (P = 0.34), or QoR‐40 scores (P = 0.13). The block characteristics regarding procedure time (P = 0.95), block failure, and onset time of sensory blockade (P = 0.33) were similar. Horner's syndrome occurred in 8 patients in the IB group and 1 patient in the SB group (P = 0.015).ConclusionsThis study showed that US‐guided SCBB is as effective as ISBB in reducing postoperative pain and improving the quality of recovery for arthroscopic shoulder surgery.
Demand for sexual services in Britain: Does Sex Education Matter?
Authors: Locatelli Marilena , Strøm Steinar 
Published: October 2018

AbstractOn survey data from 1999 to 2001 and 2010 to 2012, we estimate the demand for commercial sex among British men. We estimate a zero‐inflated count model, which takes into account the probability of not participating in the sex market and number of times with a prostitute. We find that sex education in school has a negative and significant role in the demand for paid sex. We also find that men with a typical middle‐class income are more likely to buy sex. Travelling abroad or living in London increases the likelihood of British men buying sex.
Management of peripherally inserted central catheter use in an intensive care unit of a teaching hospital in Brazil: a best practice implementation project
Authors: Oliveira Larissa Bertacchini de , Fava Yago Russo , Rodrigues Adriano Rogério Baldacin , Franulovic Alessandra Costa , Ferreira Nathalia Teixeira , Püschel Vilanice Alves de Araújo 
Published: October 2018

ABSTRACT

Objective:
This project aimed to promote evidence-based practice in the management of peripherally inserted central venous catheters (PICCs) in pediatric and adult patients in an intensive care unit (ICU).

Introduction:
A PICC provides secure vascular access to medication, blood and nutrition administration. However, their use in the ICU is limited. Gaps in training and education in the use of these catheters are barriers to improving practice and safety.

Methods:
The project was conducted in an ICU of a cardiology teaching hospital in São Paulo, Brazil. The Joanna Briggs Institute Practical Application of Clinical Evidence System and Getting Research into Practice audit tools were used. A baseline audit of the management of PICCs in pediatric and adult patients was conducted, with a sample size of 22 patients and 180 nursing staff. After an educational program, a follow-up audit involving 14 patients and 180 nursing staff was conducted using the same audit criteria.

Results:
The baseline audit indicated that PICC management concerning flushing had poor compliance of 2–20%. The results of the criteria related to the change in administration sets, including secondary sets and add-on devices, had better results, with moderate (65%) to high (100%) compliance. The follow-up audit showed improvement in all 10 criteria. Criteria related to flushing achieved 83% to 89% compliance; criteria related to dressing and change of administration sets achieved 100% compliance.

Conclusions:
Increased compliance with evidence-based best practices was achieved in all assessed audit criteria. The criteria that reached the highest compliance with best practice recommendations were related to the prevention of bloodstream infection and loss of the PICC due to obstruction. Future audits are planned to ensure sustainability.
Effectiveness of case management performed by nurses for blood pressure control in adults with hypertension: a systematic review protocol
Authors: Mantovani Maria de Fátima , Kalinke Luciana Puchalski , Silva Ângela Taís Mattei da , Arthur Juliana Perez , Radovanovic Cremilde Aparecida Trindade , Bortolato-Major Carina 
Published: October 2018

Review question/objective:
The question of this review is: what is the effectiveness of nurse case management in primary healthcare for improving blood pressure, in adults over 18 years with hypertension?
The objective of this review is to synthesize the best available evidence regarding the effectiveness of nurse case management in primary healthcare, compared to usual care, in improving blood pressure in adults over 18 years with hypertension.
Reliability, validity and generalizability of multidimensional pain assessment tools used in postoperative adult patients: a systematic review protocol
Authors: Lapkin Samuel , Fernandez Ritin , Ellwood Laura , Diwan Ashish 
Published: October 2018

ABSTRACT

Objective:
The objective of this review is to evaluate the measurement properties of multidimensional pain assessment tools for postoperative pain in adults.

Introduction:
Effective postoperative pain management increases patient safety and satisfaction, and reduces healthcare costs. The most commonly used postoperative pain assessment tools only evaluate pain intensity, which is only one aspect of the sensory dimension of pain. Pain is a subjective phenomenon, and variability exists among patients. Efforts are underway to incorporate multidimensional assessment tools for postoperative pain assessment in clinical practice.

Inclusion criteria:
Eligible studies will include postoperative patients aged 18 years and older from all surgical disciplines. Studies evaluating multidimensional assessment instruments for the measurement of postoperative pain during the first two weeks following surgery will be considered. Studies will include the following measurement properties of assessment tools as outcomes: reliability, validity and generalizability.

Methods:
MEDLINE, CINAHL, Embase, PsycINFO and Cochrane Trials (CENTRAL) will be searched, as well as ClinicalTrials.gov and multiple gray literature sources. There will be no limitations on publication date. Titles and abstracts will be screened by independent reviewers for inclusion. The full text of selected papers will be retrieved and assessed against the inclusion criteria. Two independent reviewers will assess papers for methodological quality using the COSMIN checklist, and papers with poor scores on relevant items will be excluded. Data will be extracted by two independent reviewers using a standardized data extraction tool. Statistical pooling will be performed, if possible.
Can the completeness of radiological cancer staging reports be improved using proforma reporting? A prospective multicentre non-blinded interventional study across 21 centres in the UK
Authors: Patel Anisha , Rockall Andrea , Guthrie Ashley , Gleeson Fergus , Worthy Sylvia , Grubnic Sisa , Burling David , Allen Clare , Padhani Anwar , Carey Brendan , Cavanagh Peter , Peake Michael D , Brown Gina 
Published: October 2018

ObjectivesFollowing a diagnosis of cancer, the detailed assessment of prognostic stage by radiology is a crucial determinant of initial therapeutic strategy offered to patients. Pretherapeutic stage by imaging is known to be inconsistently documented. We tested whether the completeness of cancer staging radiology reports could be improved through a nationally introduced pilot of proforma-based reporting for a selection of six common cancers.DesignProspective interventional study comparing the completeness of radiology cancer staging reports before and after the introduction of proforma reporting.SettingTwenty-one UK National Health Service hospitals.Participants1283 cancer staging radiology reports were submitted.Main outcome measuresRadiology staging reports across the six cancers types were evaluated before and after the implementation of proforma-based reporting. Report completeness was assessed using scoring forms listing the presence or absence of predetermined key staging data. Qualitative data regarding proforma implementation and usefulness were collected from questionnaires provided to radiologists and end-users.ResultsElectronic proforma-based reporting was successfully implemented in 15 of the 21 centres during the evaluation period. A total of 787 preproforma and 496 postproforma staging reports were evaluated. In the preproforma group, only 48.7% (5586/11 470) of key staging items were present compared with 87.3% (6043/6920) in the postproforma group. Thus, the introduction of proforma reporting produced a 78% improvement in staging completeness . This increase was seen across all cancer types and centres. The majority of participants found proforma reporting improved cancer reporting quality for their clinical practice .ConclusionThe implementation of proforma reporting results in a significant improvement in the completeness of cancer staging reports. Proforma-based assessment of cancer stage enables objective comparisons of patient outcomes across centres. It should therefore become an auditable quality standard for cancer care.
Seventy-six-year-old man with progressive dyspnoea
Authors: Martínez-Milla Juan , Maestre Bastardo Ángel José , Cortés Marcelino 
Published: October 2018

Clinical introductionA 76-year-old man with 50 years of smoking history was diagnosed in 2012 with diffuse interstitial lung disease, with radiological data of usual interstitial pneumonia. He came to the emergency room presenting with progression of dyspnoea for 1 week, concomitant with loss of 5 kg of weight, anorexia and poor general condition. He had tachypnoea at rest (30 breaths/min), peripheral cyanosis, speech interfered by cough and breathlessness, baseline oxygen saturation 90%, heart rate 40 beats/min and blood pressure 130/70 mm Hg. Chest X-ray was performed and there was basal atelectasia of the right lung. ECG and urgent echocardiogram (transthoracic echocardiogram, TTE) were also performed (figure 1).QuestionWhich of the following best explains the patient’s situation?Figure 1(A) ECG. (B) Long-axis parasternal view from the transthoracic echocardiogram (TTE). (C) Four-chamber view from the TTE.Acute pulmonary embolismNon-ST elevation myocardial infarctionCardiac lymphomaCardiac myxomaMobitz type II AV block