bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Urinary, bowel and sexual health in older men from Northern Ireland
Authors: Donnelly David W. , Donnelly Conan , Kearney Therese , Weller David , Sharp Linda , Downing Amy , Wilding Sarah , Wright Penny , Kind Paul , Catto James W.F. , Cross William R. , Mason Malcolm D. , McCaughan Eilis , Wagland Richard , Watson Eila , Mottram Rebecca , Allen Majorie , Butcher Hugh , Hounsome Luke , Selby Peter , Huws Dyfed , Brewster David H. , McNair Emma , Rivas Carol , Nayoan Johana , Horton Mike , Matheson Lauren , Glaser Adam W. , Gavin Anna 
Published: February 2018

ObjectivesTo provide data on the prevalence of urinary, bowel and sexual dysfunction in Northern Ireland (NI), to act as a baseline for studies of prostate cancer outcomes and to aid service provision within the general population.Subjects and MethodsA cross‐sectional postal survey of 10 000 men aged ≥40 years in NI was conducted and age‐matched to the distribution of men living with prostate cancer. The EuroQoL five Dimensions five Levels (EQ‐5D‐5L) and 26‐item Expanded Prostate Cancer Composite (EPIC‐26) instruments were used to enable comparisons with prostate cancer outcome studies. Whilst representative of the prostate cancer survivor population, the age‐distribution of the sample differs from the general population, thus data were generalised to the NI population by excluding those aged 40–59 years and applying survey weights. Results are presented as proportions reporting problems along with mean composite scores, with differences by respondent characteristics assessed using chi‐squared tests, analysis of variance, and multivariable log‐linear regression.ResultsAmongst men aged ≥60 years, 32.8% reported sexual dysfunction, 9.3% urinary dysfunction, and 6.5% bowel dysfunction. In all, 38.1% reported at least one problem and 2.1% all three. Worse outcome was associated with increasing number of long‐term conditions, low physical activity, and higher body mass index (BMI). Urinary incontinence, urinary irritation/obstruction, and sexual dysfunction increased with age; whilst urinary incontinence, bowel, and sexual dysfunction were more common among the unemployed.ConclusionThese data provide an insight into sensitive issues seldom reported by elderly men, which result in poor general health, but could be addressed given adequate service provision. The relationship between these problems, raised BMI and low physical activity offers the prospect of additional health gain by addressing public health issues such as obesity. The results provide essential contemporary population data against which outcomes for those living with prostate cancer can be compared. They will facilitate greater understanding of the true impact of specific treatments such as surgical interventions, pelvic radiation or androgen‐deprivation therapy.
Ebselen has lithium‐like effects on central 5‐HT2A receptor function
Authors: Antoniadou I , Kouskou M , Arsiwala T , Singh N , Vasudevan S R , Fowler T , Cadirci E , Churchill G C , Sharp T 
Published: February 2018

Background and PurposeLithium's antidepressant action may be mediated by inhibition of inositol monophosphatase (IMPase), a key enzyme in Gq‐protein coupled receptor signalling. Recently, the antioxidant agent ebselen was identified as an IMPase inhibitor. Here, we investigated both ebselen and lithium in models of the 5‐HT2A receptor, a Gq‐protein coupled receptor involved in lithium's actions.Experimental Approach5‐HT2A receptor function was assessed in mice by measuring the behavioural (head‐twitches, ear scratches) and molecular (cortical immediate early gene [IEG] mRNA; Arc, c‐fos, Egr2) responses to 5‐HT2A receptor agonists. Ebselen and lithium were administered either acutely or repeatedly prior to assessment of 5‐HT2A receptor function. Because lithium and 5‐HT2A receptor antagonists augment the action of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), ebselen was tested for this activity by co‐administration with the SSRI citalopram in microdialysis (extracellular 5‐HT) experiments.Key ResultsAcute and repeated administration of ebselen inhibited behavioural and IEG responses to the 5‐HT2A receptor agonist DOI. Repeated lithium also inhibited DOI‐evoked behavioural and IEG responses. In comparison, a selective IMPase inhibitor (L‐690330) attenuated the behavioural response to DOI whereas glycogen synthase kinase inhibitor (AR‐A014418) did not. Finally, ebselen enhanced the increase in extracellular 5‐HT induced by citalopram, and also increased regional brain 5‐HT synthesis.Conclusions and ImplicationsOur data demonstrated lithium‐mimetic effects of ebselen in different experimental models of 5‐HT2A receptor function, probably mediated by IMPase inhibition. This evidence of lithium‐like neuropharmacological effects of ebselen adds further support for the clinical testing of ebselen in mood disorders, including as an antidepressant augmenting agent.
Decorin‐mediated oncosuppression – a potential future adjuvant therapy for human epithelial cancers
Authors: Sainio Annele Orvokki , Järveläinen Hannu Tapio 
Published: February 2018

Currently, the multifaceted role of the extracellular matrix (ECM) in tumourigenesis has been realized. One ECM macromolecule exhibiting potent oncosuppressive actions in tumourigenesis is decorin, the prototype of the small leucine‐rich proteoglycan gene family. The actions of decorin include its ability to function as an endogenous pan‐receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor, a regulator of both autophagy and mitophagy, as well as a modulator of the immune system. In this review, we will discuss these topics in more detail. We also provide a summary of preclinical studies exploring the value of decorin‐mediated oncosuppression, as a potential future adjuvant therapy for epithelial cancers.Linked ArticlesThis article is part of a themed section on Translating the Matrix. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v176.1/issuetoc
Monoclonal antibodies against metzincin targets
Authors: Santamaria Salvatore , de Groot Rens 
Published: February 2018

The metzincin clan of metalloproteinases includes the MMP, disintegrin and metalloproteinase (ADAM) and ADAM with thrombospondin motifs families, which cleave extracellular targets in a wide range of (patho)physiological processes. Antibodies constitute a powerful tool to modulate the activity of these enzymes for both therapeutic and research purposes. In this review, we give an overview of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) that have been tested in preclinical disease models, human trials and important studies of metzincin structure and function. Initial attempts to develop therapeutic small molecule inhibitors against MMPs were hampered by structural similarities between metzincin active sites and, consequently, off‐target effects. Therefore, more recently, mAbs have been developed that do not bind to the active site but bind to surface‐exposed loops that are poorly conserved in closely related family members. Inhibition of protease activity by these mAbs occurs through a variety of mechanisms, including (i) barring access to the active site, (ii) disruption of exosite binding, and (iii) prevention of protease activation. These different modes of inhibition are discussed in the context of the antibodies' potency, selectivity and, importantly, the effects in models of disease and clinical trials. In addition, various innovative strategies that were used to generate anti‐metzincin mAbs are discussed.Linked ArticlesThis article is part of a themed section on Translating the Matrix. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v176.1/issuetoc
The stepwise development of the lamprey visual system and its evolutionary implications
Authors: Suzuki Daichi G. , Grillner Sten 
Published: February 2018

ABSTRACTLampreys, which represent the oldest group of living vertebrates (cyclostomes), show unique eye development. The lamprey larva has only eyespot‐like immature eyes beneath a non‐transparent skin, whereas after metamorphosis, the adult has well‐developed image‐forming camera eyes. To establish a functional visual system, well‐organised visual centres as well as motor components (e.g. trunk muscles for locomotion) and interactions between them are needed. Here we review the available knowledge concerning the structure, function and development of the different parts of the lamprey visual system. The lamprey exhibits stepwise development of the visual system during its life cycle. In prolarvae and early larvae, the ‘primary’ retina does not have horizontal and amacrine cells, but does have photoreceptors, bipolar cells and ganglion cells. At this stage, the optic nerve projects mostly to the pretectum, where the dendrites of neurons in the nucleus of the medial longitudinal fasciculus (nMLF) appear to receive direct visual information and send motor outputs to the neck and trunk muscles. This simple neural circuit may generate negative phototaxis. Through the larval period, the lateral region of the retina grows again to form the ‘secondary’ retina and the topographic retinotectal projection of the optic nerve is formed, and at the same time, the extra‐ocular muscles progressively develop. During metamorphosis, horizontal and amacrine cells differentiate for the first time, and the optic tectum expands and becomes laminated. The adult lamprey then has a sophisticated visual system for image‐forming and visual decision‐making. In the adult lamprey, the thalamic pathway (retina–thalamus–cortex/pallium) also transmits visual stimuli. Because the primary, simple light‐detecting circuit in larval lamprey shares functional and developmental similarities with that of protochordates (amphioxus and tunicates), the visual development of the lamprey provides information regarding the evolutionary transition of the vertebrate visual system from the protochordate‐type to the vertebrate‐type.
Mid‐esophageal bicaval versus short‐axis view of interatrial septum in two‐dimensional transesophageal echocardiography for diagnosis and measurement of atrial septal pouches
Authors: Hołda Mateusz K. , Krawczyk‐Ożóg Agata , Koziej Mateusz , Sorysz Danuta , Hołda Jakub , Dudek Dariusz , Klimek‐Piotrowska Wiesława 
Published: February 2018

BackgroundRecent studies suggest that the left‐sided septal pouch (SP) may increase the risk of cryptogenic stroke and act as an arrhythmogenic substrate. The aim of this study was to compare two transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) projections of the interventricular septum: mid‐esophageal bicaval and short‐axis views toward evaluating their ability to detect SPs.Materials and methodsA total of 146 patients with both bicaval and short‐axis TEE views were included in this study. The presence of SPs was determined, and they were evaluated for morphology.ResultsIrrespective of TEE projection view, the left SP was detected in 74 cases (50.7%), right SP in 16 cases (11.0%), and double in one case (0.7%). Agreement between both projections occurred in 119 cases (81.5%) with a weighted kappa coefficient of 0.68 (good agreement). We detected more left SPs from the bicaval view compared to the short‐axis view; however, the observed difference was statistically insignificant (72 vs 59, P = .13). The detection of right SPs was higher in the short‐axis view, but also statistically insignificant (9 vs 13, P = .38). Bland–Altman analysis revealed a significant difference in the left SP depth with higher values in the bicaval than short‐axis view (systematic difference = 1.17 mm, LoA: −4.88–7.22 mm, P = .02, ICC = 0.58).ConclusionsThe mid‐esophageal bicaval view should be preferable over mid‐esophageal short‐axis view of interatrial septum for the diagnosis and measurement of the left SP.
HIV/HCV/HBV testing in the emergency department: a feasibility and seroprevalence study
Authors: Bradshaw D , Rae C , Rayment M , Turner N , Turner R , Pickard G , Pillay K , Roberts P , Foxton M , Sullivan AK 
Published: February 2018

ObjectivesThe aims of this study were to to assess the feasibility of simultaneous testing for the blood‐borne viruses (BBV), HIV, hepatitis C (HCV) and hepatitis B (HBV), in the Emergency Department (ED) and ascertain the seroprevalence for these three viruses in this setting.MethodsA pilot BBV testing program was undertaken as part of routine clinical care in the ED. All ED attendees aged between 16 and 65 years old who were able to consent were tested over a 55 week period on an opt out basis. Patients with positive test results were linked to clinical services. Interventions aimed at improving testing rates were implemented and evaluated by quality improvement (QI) methodology.ResultsOf 25,520 age‐eligible ED attendees, 6108 (24%) underwent BBV testing; an additional 1160 (4.5%) underwent a standalone HIV test (total of 7268 (28%) individuals).There were 83/7268 (1.1%) non‐negative (ie reactive or equivocal) results for HIV and 103/6108 (1.7%) and 32/6108 (0.52%) for anti‐HCV IgG and HBsAg, respectively. Of these, 12 (0.17%), 16 (0.26%) and 8 (0.13%) were new reactive tests for HIV, HCV and HBV, respectively, which were able to be confirmed on a second test. Specific QI interventions led to temporary increases in testing rates.ConclusionsAn opt out BBV testing program in the ED is feasible and effective at finding new cases. However, the testing rate was low at 24%. Although QI interventions led to some improvement in testing rates, further studies are required to identify ways to achieve sustained increases in testing in this setting.
BCN Checkpoint: same‐day confirmation of reactive HIV rapid test with Point Of Care HIV‐RNA accelerates linkage to care and reduces anxiety
Authors: Meulbroek M , Pujol F , Pérez F , Dalmau‐Bueno A , Taboada H , Marazzi G , Carrillo A , Cabas A , Gata A , Aldabó E , Roldán B , Coll P , Añez F , Pantaleón J , Mochales M , Gómez V , Marín O , Mir JF , Decoca J , Saz J 
Published: February 2018

BackgroundThe introduction in 2006 of the rapid HIV test by BCN Checkpoint in a non‐clinical setting has been a successful step forwards in the uptake of testing. Nevertheless, HIV serostatus should be reported as HIV positive only when a reactive result has been tested again using a different assay (WHO guidelines 2015). The standard confirmation test has been the Western Blot (WB) test. However confirmation results take around 7 days to come back.AimsThis study explores the possibility of Point of Care PCR testing for a same‐day confirmation.Materials and MethodsBetween March 2015 and September 2016 a POC PCR test (Xpert® HIV‐1 Qual) was performed in parallel to the Western Blot test after a reactive HIV rapid test (Alere Determine™ HIV‐1/2 Ag/Ab Combo and Alere™ HIV Combo). HIV confirmed positive cases received emotional support by peers, were informed and prepared for treatment initiation and rapidly linked to HIV clinic.ResultsDuring the study period 11 455 tests were performed to 7163 clients. A total of 249 reactive rapid HIV tests were found. For analysis a total of 33 cases were excluded due to the lack of PCR and/or WB test. Results of comparison of the 216 cases showed 194 concordant positive confirmations and 14 concordant negative results. In three cases PCR was positive and WB negative. In five cases PCR was negative and WB positive.ConclusionThe POC PCR assay is easy to use and feasible in a community‐based center. Reducing time for confirmation to 90 min has been possible in 91.2% (197/216) of cases with positive PCR result. In cases of a negative PCR result an additional test (WB, Elisa or PCR quantitative) was needed to distinguish false positive results (6.5%) from viral load results below level of detection (2.3%). Clients expressed satisfaction with same‐day confirmation and less anxiety.
Dental hygiene education exceeds the degrees granted: A pilot study
Authors: O'Hehir T 
Published: February 2018

AbstractObjectiveDespite expansion of the scope of practice and clinical responsibilities of dental hygienists since 1945, the degrees granted for dental hygiene remain the same. The majority of dental hygienists complete 4 or even 5 years of college to receive an associate's degree while a few earn a baccalaureate degree. The aim of this study was to determine whether an associate's degree appropriately matches the current level of dental hygiene education.MethodologyThis retrospective, analytical pilot study compared contact hours required for dental hygiene programmes in 1945 and three community college dental hygiene programmes and one university programme in Arizona currently. Comparisons were made to determine the relationship between contact hours and credits granted today and how these credit levels relate to the degrees conferred.ResultsToday, an associate's degree requires 60 credits. Descriptive statistics revealed that 2‐year dental hygienists in 1945 completed the equivalent of 112 contact hours compared to 157 contact hours for associate degree dental hygienists today, a difference of 45 contact hours. Bachelor degree dental hygienists complete 170 contact hours, a difference of 13 contact hours more than associate degree dental hygienists today. This pilot study is limited by the small sample size of dental hygiene programmes included. Further studies are needed that include a broad diversity of dental hygiene programmes.ConclusionDental hygiene education has grown and expanded significantly since 1945, surpassing the requirements for a 2‐year associate's degree.
THE RETURN TO COLLEGE: SELECTION AND DROPOUT RISK
Authors: Hendricks Lutz , Leukhina Oksana 
Published: February 2018

AbstractThis article studies the effect of graduating from college on lifetime earnings. We develop a quantitative model of college choice with uncertain graduation. Departing from much of the literature, we model in detail how students progress through college. This allows us to parameterize the model using transcript data. College transcripts reveal substantial and persistent heterogeneity in students' credit accumulation rates that are strongly related to graduation outcomes. From these data, the model infers a large ability gap between college graduates and high school graduates that accounts for 59% of the college lifetime earnings premium.
On PAR: A feasibility study of the Promoting Adult Resilience programme with mental health nurses
Authors: Foster Kim , Shochet Ian , Wurfl Astrid , Roche Michael , Maybery Darryl , Shakespeare‐Finch Jane , Furness Trentham 
Published: February 2018

AbstractMental health settings are recognized as complex, unpredictable environments, and challenging interpersonal situations are common for nurses in acute adult mental health services. Occupational stressors include verbal aggression and physical assault and are correlated with poor physical and mental health outcomes for nurses. There is a clear need for proactive approaches that address the negative impacts of stressors on the mental health nursing workforce. Resilience interventions are a preventive approach to strengthening skills for addressing workplace stress, improving health and well‐being, and preventing adverse outcomes associated with occupational stressors. The aim of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of a workplace resilience education programme for nurses in high‐acuity adult mental health settings. The outcomes were measured using a single‐group pretest post‐test design with follow‐up at 3 months postintervention. The feasibility and acceptability of the programme were identified with descriptors of mental health, well‐being, resilience, facilitator fidelity checklists, and participant satisfaction questionnaires. The programme was found to be feasible for nurses working in high‐acuity inpatient settings. There were significant changes to mental health, well‐being, and workplace resilience. The programme was delivered with fidelity by facilitators and accepted with high levels of satisfaction by participants. The study findings indicated that nurses can benefit from resilience education that equips them with cognitive, emotion regulation, and relational skills, in conjunction with available external supports and resources, to address workplace challenges. There is a need for comprehensive organizational approaches that include individual, work unit, and organizational‐level strategies to support staff well‐being.
The depth of follicular extension in actinic keratosis correlates with the depth of invasion in squamous cell carcinoma: implication for clinical treatment
Authors: Fernández‐Figueras M.T. , Saenz‐Sardà X. , Vargas P. , Thompson C.T. , Carrato C. , Puig L. , Ferrándiz C. , Ariza A. 
Published: February 2018

AbstractBackgroundActinic keratosis (AK) may show extension down follicles, not only in cases with full‐thickness epidermal atypia (‘bowenoid’ AK), but also in cases with atypia limited to the epidermal basalis. Previous studies have demonstrated that, in bowenoid AK, follicular extension is usually superficial, being limited to the upper follicular segment. Little is known about the depth of follicular involvement in cases of invasive squamous cell carcinoma of the skin (iSCC) arising from AK and the role of the follicle in iSCC pathogenesis.ObjectiveThis study investigated the relationship between follicular extension of atypical keratinocytes in an AK and the development of iSCC from the follicular wall. The depth of follicular extension was correlated with the depth invasion of iSCC. Differences between the differentiated and classical pathways of iSCC were also examined.MethodsWe performed a retrospective histologic review of 193 biopsy specimens of iSCC with an associated AK. We assessed the presence and depth of follicular extension of atypical keratinocytes in the AK, using tumour (Breslow) thickness and the follicular unit level (infundibular, isthmic and subisthmic), as well as iSCC being present directly adjacent to the follicular basalis.ResultsFollicular extension was present in 25.9% of the cases (50 cases), usually extending into the lower follicular segment. The iSCC was present directly adjacent to the follicular basalis in 58% of the cases (29 cases), correlating highly with the depth of follicular extension (infundibular: 3/12; isthmic: 21/33; subisthmic 5/5).ConclusionThe depth of follicular extension of atypical keratinocytes in an AK correlates with the development of depth of invasion of an associated iSCC, irrespective of the pathway of origin. It is therefore important to note the presence and the depth of follicular extension when diagnosing an AK, as follicular extension likely accounts for a significant proportion of recurrent AK and the development of iSCC following superficial treatment modalities.