bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Correlations between skin hydration parameters and corneocyte‐derived parameters to characterize skin conditions
Authors: Masaki Hitoshi , Yamashita Yuki , Kyotani Daiki , Honda Tatsuya , Takano Kenichi , Tamura Toshiyasu , Mizutani Taeko , Okano Yuri 
Published: March 2018

SummaryBackgroundSkin hydration is generally assessed using the parameters of skin surface water content (SWC) and trans‐epidermal water loss (TEWL). To date, few studies have characterized skin conditions using correlations between skin hydration parameters and corneocyte parameters.AimsThe parameters SWC and TEWL allow the classification of skin conditions into four distinct Groups. The purpose of this study was to assess the characteristics of skin conditions classified by SWC and TEWL for correlations with parameters from corneocytes.MethodsA human volunteer test was conducted that measured SWC and TEWL. As corneocyte‐derived parameters, the size and thick abrasion ratios, the ratio of sulfhydryl groups and disulfide bonds (SH/SS) and CP levels were analyzed.ResultsVolunteers were classified by their median SWC and TEWL values into 4 Groups: Group I (high SWC/low TEWL), Group II (high SWC/high TEWL), Group III (low SWC/low TEWL), and Group IV (low SWC/high TEWL). Group IV showed a significantly smaller size of corneocytes. Groups III and IV had significantly higher thick abrasion ratios and CP levels. Group I had a significantly lower SH/SS value. The SWC/TEWL value showed a decline in order from Group I to Group IV.ConclusionGroups classified by their SWC and TEWL values showed characteristic skin conditions. We propose that the SWC and TEWL ratio is a comprehensive parameter to assess skin conditions.
The relationship of delirium and risk factors for cardiology intensive care unit patients with the nursing workload
Authors: Öztürk Birge Ayşegül , Bedük Tülin 
Published: March 2018

Aims and objectivesTo evaluate the relationship of delirium and risk factors for cardiology intensive care unit (ICU) patients with the nursing workload.BackgroundDelirium is a common syndrome in patients with cardiac problems. The risk factors causing delirium and the presence and type of delirium affect the nurse workload and patient care quality adversely.DesignThis cross‐sectional study was conducted with 133 patients staying at the cardiology ICU of a university hospital between 5 January–31 March 2017.MethodThe study data were collected using the Patient Information Form, Delirium Risk Factors' Form and Therapeutic Intervention Scoring System‐28 (TISS‐28) scale to identify the nurse workload. The statistical analysis of the data was performed using frequency, chi‐square, Mann–Whitney U, correlation and regression analyses.ResultsIt was found that patients who developed delirium were 65 years or older, they had more nasogastric/total parenteral nutrition (NG/TPN), benzodiazepine and physical restraints in comparison with those with no delirium development, and that the prevalence of hypoxia and hypoalbuminemia were higher in these patients. The mean TISS‐28 score was higher in patients with delirium, compared with those without delirium. There was a positive correlation between the mean Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II (APACHE II) scores and the mean TISS‐28 score of the patients. The mean TISS‐28 score was found to significantly increase with being at the age of 65 and above and the administration of mechanical ventilation. The patients with delirium required a mean of 60‐min additional care.ConclusionsOur study results suggest that the presence of delirium and the delirium risk factors, irrespective of delirium, increase the nurse workload.Relevance to clinical practiceAn effective management of delirium risk factors can improve the patient care quality by reducing delirium occurrence and nurse workload.
Factors associated with undiagnosed obstructive sleep apnoea among hypertensive patients: A multisite cross‐sectional survey study in Taiwan
Authors: Hsu Hsiu‐Chin , Chen Ning‐Hung , Ho Wan Jing , Lin Mei‐Hsiang 
Published: March 2018

Aims and objectivesTo investigate the distribution and risk factors associated with undiagnosed obstructive sleep apnoea among hypertensive patients.BackgroundObstructive sleep Apnoea has been deemed a cardinal risk factor affecting cardiovascular event, and the condition is still frequently overlooked clinically. The lack of advanced diagnosis often causes hypertensive patients with obstructive sleep apnoea to miss opportunities for preventing chronic diseases.DesignA cross‐sectional design.MethodsA total of 215 hypertensive participants were recruited from the cardiovascular outpatients of medical centre in northern and middle Taiwan. The Chinese version of Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, the Chinese version of the Epworth Sleep Scale and a portable sleep monitoring device were used for data collection. Logistic regression analysis was conducted to identify the factors affecting hypertensive patients with obstructive sleep apnoea, and a multinomial logistic regression analysis was used to examine the major influence factors for each obstructive sleep apnoea severity level.Results81.9% of the hypertensive participants were found having obstructive sleep apnoea. Concerning to the obstructive sleep apnoea severity, 50.0% of participants had mild obstructive sleep apnoea. After controlling the confounding variables, the supine position (odds ratio, 1.04; 95% CI, 1.01–1.07), SO2 (odds ratio, 0.58; 95% CI, 0.38–0.89) and oxygen desaturation index (odds ratio, 2.70; 95% CI, 1.18–6.18) were significantly associated with obstructive sleep apnoea. Furthermore, severe obstructive sleep apnoea was significantly correlated with gender (odds ratio, 0.04; 95% CI, 0.00–0.66), excessive daytime sleepiness (odds ratio, 20.27; 95% CI, 1.58–26.97) and oxygen desaturation index (odds ratio, 4.05; 95% CI, 1.86–8.81).ConclusionsNearly 82% of the hypertensive participants were found having undiagnosed obstructive sleep apnoea, and 80% of them were mild or moderate severity. Oxygen desaturation index, SO2 and the supine position were found to be major predictors for obstructive sleep apnoea. Remarkably, oxygen desaturation index was the most significant predictor for mild, moderate and severe obstructive sleep apnoea.Relevance to clinical practiceHealthcare providers should enhance their sensitivities to hypertensive patients at a high risk for obstructive sleep apnoea by actively assessing common obstructive sleep apnoea symptoms and providing strategies to alleviate obstructive sleep apnoea symptoms.
Effects of nurse‐led lower extremity strength training on knee function recovery in patients who underwent total knee replacement
Authors: Lin Yu‐Hua , Lee Su‐Ying , Su Wei‐Ren , Kao Chia‐Chan , Tai Ta‐Wei , Chen Tai‐Been 
Published: March 2018

Aims and objectivesTo examine the effects of lower extremity muscle strength training on knee function recovery and quality of life in patients who underwent total knee replacement.BackgroundPatients with knee osteoarthritis after surgery experience decreased knee function that impacts their quality of life. However, patients typically lack a long‐term, home‐based and continuous leg exercise training method and rarely have studies explored the effects of exercise training on knee function recovery and quality of life.DesignA experimental and longitudinal study design.MethodsThe simple randomised sampling (based on patients’ admission priority order) was used to collect participant data. Outcome measurements included the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score. Participants were randomised to receive and starting lower extremity muscle strength training before surgery (training group, n = 100) or to receive usual care (nontraining group, n = 100). Data were collected and followed up with the patients before surgery (T1) and at 2 weeks (T2), 1 month (T3), 2 months (T4) and 3 months (T5) after discharge.ResultsThe Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score subscale scores showed that both groups of patients experienced knee function and quality of life decreases 2 weeks after total knee replacement, but all subscale scores gradually increased from the first month to the third month after total knee replacement. Both groups and times were significantly different, but the training group's knee function and quality of life recovered earlier and better than the nontraining group does.ConclusionsThis study confirmed that lower extremity muscle strength training helps to improve quality of life and knee function in patients who undergo total knee replacement. Healthcare staff should include this training in presurgical nursing care and in patients’ discharge plans as a continuous, daily rehabilitation activity at home.Relevance to clinical practiceWhen patients are diagnosed with knee osteoarthritis and undergo surgery, a presurgical exercise education and discussion of knee function rehabilitation should be part of standard care.
Enhanced self‐monitoring blood glucose in non‐insulin‐requiring Type 2 diabetes: A qualitative study in primary care
Authors: Brackney Dana Elisabeth 
Published: March 2018

Aims and objectivesTo contribute to both theoretical and practical understanding of the role of self‐monitoring blood glucose for self‐management by describing the experience of people with non‐insulin‐requiring Type 2 diabetes in an enhanced structured self‐monitoring blood glucose intervention.BackgroundThe complex context of self‐monitoring blood glucose in Type 2 diabetes requires a deeper understanding of the clients’ illness experience with structured self‐monitoring of blood glucose. Clients’ numeracy skills contribute to their response to blood glucose readings. Nurses’ use of motivational interviewing to increase clients’ regulatory self‐efficacy is important to the theoretical perspective of the study.DesignA qualitative descriptive study.MethodsA purposive sample of eleven adults recently (<2 years) diagnosed with non‐insulin‐requiring Type 2 diabetes who had experienced a structured self‐monitoring blood glucose intervention participated in this study. Audio recordings of semi‐structured interviews and photographs of logbooks were analysed for themes using constant comparison and member checking.ResultsThe illness experience states of Type 2 diabetes include ‘Diagnosis,’ ‘Behavior change,’ and ‘Routine checking.’ People check blood glucose to confirm their Type 2 diabetes diagnosis, to console their diabetes‐related fears, to create personal explanations of health behaviour's impact on blood glucose, to activate behaviour change and to congratulate their diabetes self‐management efforts.ConclusionsThese findings support the Transtheoretical model's stages of change and change processes. Blood glucose checking strengthens the relationships between theoretical concepts found in Diabetes Self‐management Education‐Support including the following: engagement, information sharing and behavioural support.Relevance to clinical practiceTailoring diabetes care specifically to clients’ stage of their illness experience with use of self‐monitoring blood glucose contributes to engagement in self‐management. Motivational interviewing and collaborative decision‐making using blood glucose checking increase regulatory self‐efficacy for people living with non‐insulin‐requiring Type 2 diabetes.
Intentional rounding in acute adult healthcare settings: A systematic mixed‐method review
Authors: Christiansen Angela , Coventry Linda , Graham Renée , Jacob Elisabeth , Twigg Di , Whitehead Lisa 
Published: March 2018

Aims and objectivesTo determine the impact of intentional rounding on patient and nursing outcomes and identify the barriers and facilitators surrounding implementation.BackgroundIntentional rounding is an organised approach whereby health professionals’ regularly check on patients to ensure their fundamental care needs are met. Despite wide scale adoption of intentional rounding, there is limited evidence to inform practice.MethodsThis systematic mixed‐method review was conducted using the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology. Databases CINAHL, MEDLINE, EMBASE, COCHRANE, SCOPUS and WEB of SCIENCE were searched to identify research studies published in English between January 2006–January 2017 that reported on intentional rounding and patient and nursing staff outcomes. Studies were assessed for methodological quality. The findings were synthesised into themes using a narrative approach.ResultsTwenty‐one studies were included in the review. Six studies reported a reduction in the number of falls, and a further five studies reported a reduction in call bell use following the introduction of intentional rounding. Nurses’ satisfaction and attitudes towards intentional rounding were reported in seven studies with equivocal results. The quality of the studies was weak making comparisons difficult.ConclusionsWhile results suggest positive outcomes for falls and call bell use, conclusions on the available data are overshadowed by the quality of the studies. Well‐designed studies are required to advance evidence in this field.Relevance to clinical practiceThe evidence on intentional rounding is mixed and suggests that the introduction of intentional rounding should be accompanied by a protocol for robust evaluation to measure the impact of this process change. This should be accompanied by standardised reporting measures to enable comparisons and contribute to the quality of available evidence on intentional rounding.
Patients’ experiences and care needs during the diagnostic phase of an integrated brain cancer pathway: A case study
Authors: Vedelø Tina Wang , Sørensen Jens Christian Hedemann , Delmar Charlotte 
Published: March 2018

Aims and objectivesTo identify and describe patients’ experiences and care needs throughout the diagnostic phase of an integrated brain cancer pathway.BackgroundA malignant brain tumour is a devastating diagnosis, which may cause psychical symptoms and cognitive deficits. Studies have shown that the shock of the diagnosis, combined with the multiple symptoms, affects patients’ ability to understand information and express needs of care and support. Unmet needs have been reported within this group of patients; however, the experiences and care needs of patients going through the diagnostic phase of a standardised integrated brain cancer pathway have not previously been explored.DesignA case study design was used to provide detailed information of the complex needs of patients being diagnosed with a malignant brain tumour.MethodsResearch interviews and direct participant observation of four patients during hospital admission, brain surgery and discharge were conducted in a Danish university hospital. Systematic text condensation was used to analyse the data material.ResultsFour major themes were identified: information needs, balancing hope and reality while trying to perceive the unknown reality of brain cancer, not knowing what to expect and participants’ perceptions of the relationship with the healthcare providers. The analysis revealed that participants were in risk of having unmet information needs and that contextual factors seemed to cause fragmented care that led to feelings of uncertainty and loss of control.ConclusionsBrain tumour patients have complex care needs and experience a particular state of vulnerability during the diagnostic phase. Through personal relationships based on trust with skilled healthcare providers, participants experienced an existential recognition and alleviation of emotional distress.Relevance to clinical practicePatients receiving a brain tumour diagnosis experience unmet care needs in several areas during their hospital stay. There is a need for interventions from healthcare providers.
BUSINESS ANGELS RESEARCH IN ENTREPRENEURIAL FINANCE: A LITERATURE REVIEW AND A RESEARCH AGENDA
Authors: Tenca Francesca , Croce Annalisa , Ughetto Elisa 
Published: March 2018

AbstractSince the seminal works of Wetzel, research on business angels (BAs) has emerged as a new and promising research field. This review analyses the current knowledge on BAs, identifying the main contents and outcomes. We also provide a bibliometric analysis to illustrate the evolution of the research field, the level of dispersion of the scientific community, the main outlets for publication and the different methodological approaches adopted. Through the analysis of backward and forward citations, we depict the current knowledge base on which BA research is grounded and whether it has any impact on other research fields.
Assessment of epicardial fat and carotid intima media thickness in gestational hypertension
Authors: Altin Cihan , Yilmaz Mustafa , Ozsoy Hasmet M. , Gezmis Esin , Balci Serdar , Tekindal Mustafa A. , Sade Leyla E. , Muderrisoglu Haldun 
Published: March 2018

AbstractAimGestational hypertension (GHT) is a common disorder of pregnancy characterized by new onset hypertension without the presence of detectable proteinuria after 20 weeks of gestation. Epicardial fat thickness (EFT) and carotid intima media thickness (CIMT) are suggested as new predictors of subclinical atherosclerosis. Although the relationship between these parameters and essential hypertension has been demonstrated, this association in patients with GHT is still unknown. We aimed to investigate CIMT and EFT in patients with GHT.MethodsA total of 90 patients (44 GHT and 46 controls) were enrolled. Patients with diabetes mellitus, chronic hypertension and cardiovascular disease (CVD) were excluded. In the third trimester, the mean CIMT at the far wall of both left and right common carotid arteries was measured on B‐mode duplex ultrasound. EFT was measured on the free wall of the right ventricle at the end systole in the parasternal long‐axis view by standard transthorasic 2D echocardiography.ResultsUnlike the mean CIMT (0.52 ± 0.13 mm vs 0.47 ± 0.11 mm; P = 0.078), the mean EFT was significantly higher in the GHT group compared to the controls (5.31 ± 1.68 mm vs 4.17 ± 1.16 mm; P = 0.002). In multivariate logistic regression analysis, among the most pertinent clinical variables, only EFT is an independent determinant of GHT (OR: 2.903; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.454–5.796; P = 0.003). In receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis, EFT >5.5 mm had 82.6% specificity and 52.3% sensitivity in predicting a diagnosis of GHT (ROC area under curve: 0.689, 95% CI: 0.577–0.802, P = 0.002).ConclusionMaternal EFT may be higher in pregnant women with GHT in comparison with those of controls.
Effect of pomegranate extract on vagina, skeleton, metabolic and endocrine profiles in an ovariectomized rat model
Authors: Kaban Isik , Kaban Alpaslan , Tunca Aysun F. , Aka Nurettin , Kavak Hacer , Akar Fugen 
Published: March 2018

AbstractAimMany women need estrogen therapy because of menopausal complaints. It is suggested that pomegranate plant has estrogenic effect. Aim of the study was to examine the effects of pomegranate seed extract on menopausal changes.MethodsThis study was conducted in an experimental environment with 23 Wistar Albino genus female rats. Sixteen rats were divided into two groups after ovariectomy. One group (SG) was fed with standard food and the pomegranate extract was added to drinking water of the other group (PG). Seven rats were identified as the sham group for the detection of basal values. At the end of 90 days, follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), estradiol, total cholesterol, high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL)‐cholesterol, low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL)‐cholesterol, triglyceride, tibial bone cortex thickness and vaginal epithelium thickness of the groups were compared.ResultsFSH, total‐cholesterol and HDL‐cholesterol levels were similar among the three groups (P > 0.05), while others were different (P < 0.05). In binary comparisons (PG vs SG), estradiol level (average ± standard deviation [SD]: 252 ± 43 vs 154 ± 26 pg/mL), tibial bone cortex thickness (58 ± 7 vs 40 ± 2 μm) and vaginal epithelium thickness (21 ± 7 vs 10 ± 4 μm) were significantly higher in PG. In PG, triglyceride levels (103 ± 26 vs 87 ± 41 mg/dL) were higher and LDL‐cholesterol levels were lower (20 ± 8 vs 27 ± 8 mg/dL), but these differences were not significant.ConclusionIn rats fed with pomegranate extract, estradiol levels increased and tibial bone cortex thickness and vaginal epithelium thickness also increased. Pomegranate itself or its formulation extracts may be a support or an alternative to the main treatment modalities in the preservation of bone density and the treatment of vaginal epithelial atrophy.
Personality and expatriate adjustment: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Harari Michael B. , Reaves Angela C. , Beane David A. , Laginess Andrew J. , Viswesvaran Chockalingam 
Published: March 2018

We used meta‐analysis to advance our understanding of personality traits as antecedents of expatriate adjustment to international assignments and to test expatriate adjustment as a mediator linking the Five‐Factor Model (FFM) of personality to job performance and turnover intentions (k = 43; N = 7,007). Personality accounted for 20% of the variance in expatriate adjustment. Relative weight analyses indicated that extraversion generally accounted for the greatest proportion of predicted variance, although emotional stability and openness were important predictors as well. This pattern of findings was largely, but not completely, consistent across adjustment dimensions (i.e., general, interactional, work). Consistent with our expectations, meta‐analytic path analysis indicated that adjustment mediated the relationships between the FFM and both expatriate job performance and turnover intentions. Implications for theory and practice are discussed.Practitioner points

Personality traits consistent with the Five‐Factor Model accounted for 20% of the variance in expatriate adjustment.

Personality traits, particularly extraversion, emotional stability, and openness, can be used for identifying employees who are well suited for international assignments.

Career planning in multinational enterprises can make use of personality scores to determine who may be a good candidate for the development for international assignments.

Social support interventions (e.g., mentoring) should be provided when on assignment, particularly for introverted expatriates, to facilitate adjustment.
Shyness and sociability among extremely low birth weight survivors in the third and fourth decades of life: Associations with relationship status
Authors: Xu Richard , Poole Kristie L. , Van Lieshout Ryan J. , Saigal Saroj , Schmidt Louis A. 
Published: March 2018

AbstractObjectiveWe examined differences between the oldest known longitudinally followed cohort of extremely low birth weight survivors (ELBW; < 1,000 grams) and normal birth weight (NBW; > 2,500 grams) control participants on shyness and sociability, as well as conflicted shyness in adulthood across nearly a decade from their 20s to 30s.Method100 ELBW survivors and 88 NBW control participants self‐reported on shyness and sociability using the Cheek and Buss (1981; Cheek, 1983) shyness and sociability scale. Participants also self‐reported on their relationship status. A composite measure of conflicted shyness was also computed (i.e., the product of shyness and sociability).ResultsWe found that, in their 30s, ELBW survivors reported higher shyness, but similar levels of sociability and conflicted shyness compared to controls. However, the ELBW group exhibited a greater decrease in conflicted shyness than NBW controls from their 20s to their 30s. Greater decreases in conflicted shyness in both groups were associated with being male, as well as with changes in relationship status such as finding a partner or getting married.ConclusionsRelatively higher shyness among ELBW survivors in adulthood suggests that stressful pre‐ and early postnatal environments may have lasting effects on personality development. However, later social influences such as relationship status may attenuate some types of shyness in adulthood.