bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Plastic deformation and effects of water in room‐temperature cold sintering of NaCl microwave dielectric ceramics
Authors: Hong Wen Bin , Li Lei , Cao Meng , Chen Xiang Ming 
Published: March 2018

AbstractNaCl ceramics were prepared by room‐temperature cold sintering using moistened NaCl powder with 4 wt% water and dry pressing using dehydrated powder. When the applied uniaxial pressure is low, the relative density of dry‐pressed NaCl ceramic is significantly lower than that of cold‐sintered ceramic, while the former is 98.5%‐99.3% and much higher than the latter (94.3%‐94.6%) for high applied pressure of 200‐300 MPa. The uniaxial pressure‐induced plastic deformation dominates the densification of dry‐pressed NaCl ceramic, and also plays a role during cold sintering as well as the dissolution‐precipitation process. The lower density of cold‐sintered NaCl ceramic under high applied pressure is attributed to the trapped water in ceramic body during cold sintering. Besides, the presence of water always promotes the microstructural homogeneity, which is responsible for the much higher Qf value of cold‐sintered NaCl ceramic. The optimal microwave dielectric properties with εr = 5.55, Qf = 49 600 GHz, and τf = −173 ppm/°C are obtained in cold‐sintered NaCl ceramic under the applied pressure of 300 MPa, indicating that it is a promising candidate as a microwave dielectric material.
Does longer roster lead‐time reduce temporary staff usage? A regression analysis of e‐rostering data from 77 hospital units
Authors: Drake Robert G. 
Published: March 2018

AbstractAimsUse of temporary nursing staff is contentious and expensive. Using e‐rostering data from 77 hospital units, this research investigates whether longer roster lead‐times reduce temporary staff usage.BackgroundIt is commonly assumed that longer roster approval lead‐times, the time from when a roster is approved, to when it is worked, result in better, more cost‐effective rosters. Consequently, many hospitals target lead‐times of 6 weeks, a figure recommended for the UK National Health Service in a recent governmental review. This contrasts with the minimum lead‐time advocated by New South Wales Ministry of Health, which advises a shorter lead‐time of 2 weeks. Using data from 77 hospital units, this paper explores this assumed relationship.DesignUsing data extracted from the e‐rostering system of an NHS Acute Foundation Trust, this study uses linear regression analysis to explore the relationship between roster approval lead‐time and temporary staff usage. The data were captured over a period of 9 months from 15 February 2016–23 October 2016, a total of 693 rosters.Results/FindingsThis research suggests that late roster approval may contribute to as much as 37% of temporary staff usage, while approval 4–6 weeks prior to the roster being worked reduces this to approximately 15%. However, this is only relevant under specific conditions. Importantly, this should be considered before mandating lead‐times across all units.ConclusionsThis research implies that the optimum approval lead‐time lies between 4–6 weeks; however, given other challenges, achieving this in practice may prove difficult.
Association between daily salt intake of 3‐year‐old children and that of their mothers: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Takada Toshihiko , Fukuma Shingo , Shimizu Sayaka , Hayashi Michio , Miyashita Jun , Azuma Teruhisa , Fukuhara Shunichi 
Published: March 2018

AbstractThis study investigated the association between the daily salt intake of 3‐year‐old children and that of their mothers. A total of 641 children were studied. The daily salt intake of the children and their mothers was estimated by morning and spot urine methods, respectively. In the multivariable analysis, a 1 g higher maternal daily salt intake was associated with a 0.14 g (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.07‐0.22, P < .001) higher salt intake of her children. In the secondary analysis, the odds ratios for excess salt intake of children were 1.61 (95% CI, 1.01‐2.55, P = .045) and 1.81 (95% CI, 1.12‐2.91, P = .015) for 9.7‐11.5 g and 11.5 g or more of maternal daily salt intake, respectively. Our findings could help to convince mothers of the importance of appropriate salt intake, not only for themselves but also for their children.
First interception of Bemisia tabaci Mediterranean (Q biotype) in Serbia
Authors: Konjević A. , Milovac Ž. , Kontsedalov S. , Kanakala S. , Ghanim M. 
Published: March 2018

AbstractThe whitefly Bemisia tabaci (Gennadius) is a cosmopolitan insect pest and causes great damage to many agricultural crops by direct feeding, and transmitting many plant viruses causing disastrous effects. The global distribution of B. tabaci was previously investigated, but so far, it has not been confirmed in Serbia. Sampling conducted on plants at three localities in Serbia revealed the presence of three whitefly species, one is B. tabaci Mediterranean (MED) species, a quarantine pest. Additionally, Trialeurodes vaporariorum Westwood and an Aleurodes sp. that was not identified to the species level were also confirmed. The last two are common and widespread species in Serbia. Whitefly collections were made from cabbage, kale and oilseed rape plants (Brassica oleracea, B. oleracea var. sabauda, B. napus, respectively) grown in the field, on sunflower (Helianthus annuus) grown in the greenhouse and on potted hibiscus (Hibiscus sp.) and poinsettia (Euphorbia pulcherrima) plants grown indoors. DNA sequence analysis from a portion of the Cytochrome Oxidase I gene (COI) revealed the presence of B. tabaci MED species, which is considered to be a very important pest worldwide and has been reported from neighbouring countries, however, not yet from Serbia. Bemisia tabaci MED is recorded here for the first time in Serbia. This first interception suggests its introduction with ornamentals grown indoors, with no outdoor reports and that it is not yet spread. This report is an important alert for local authorities to take the necessary steps in monitoring and preventing its possible expansion.
Translational validity of PASAT and the effect of fatigue and mood in patients with relapsing remitting MS: A functional MRI study
Authors: Iancheva Dessislava , Trenova Anastasiya G. , Terziyski Kiril , Kandilarova Sevdalina , Mantarova Stefka 
Published: April 2018

AbstractRationale, aims, and objectivesPaced Auditory Serial Addition Test (PASAT) is used for assessment of information processing speed, attention, and working memory, which are the most frequently affected cognitive domains in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients, and may be significantly affected by fatigue.However, the effect of fatigue and mood on the PASAT performance in MS patients translationally validated by fMRI has not been studied yet.The aim of this study is to investigate the translational validity of the PASAT, using fMRI during a paced visual serial addition test (PVSAT) paradigm in patients with relapsing remitting MS (RRMS) and to assess the impact of fatigue and mood on test performance.MethodsFourteen patients with RRMS in remission and 14 healthy controls, matched by sex, age, and educational status, were enrolled in the study. The subjects underwent a standard neurological examination, neuropsychological evaluation with the PASAT 3′, fMRI scanning with a PVSAT paradigm, and Beck Depression Inventory. All patients were assessed by the Modified Fatigue Impact Scale.ResultsPaced Auditory Serial Addition Test score was lower in patients (41.4 ± 15.5 vs 51.6 ± 7.5,P = .035). A moderate negative correlation (P = −0.563,P = 0.036) was found between PASAT and MIFS scores. The fMRI scanning showed significant activations in several clusters that differed between patients and controls. The patient group presented wider cluster activation; Brodmann area (BA) 6—bilaterally; left BA7, 8, and 9; and right BA40, while controls presented with activations in left BA6 and BA44. Significant negative correlations between PASAT score and cortical activations in left BA23, right BA32, and left BA7 were observed in patients only.ConclusionOur results show that poorer performance on the PASAT is associated with higher activation in areas connected with working memory, attention, and emotional processes during the fMRI assessment with PVSAT paradigm, which provides evidence for the translational validity of the PASAT in patients with RRMS.
Randomized clinical study of alterations in the color and surface roughness of dental enamel brushed with whitening toothpaste
Authors: de Moraes Rego Roselino Lourenço , Tirapelli Camila , de Carvalho Panzeri Pires‐de‐Souza Fernanda 
Published: March 2018

AbstractObjectivesThis clinical study evaluated the influence of whitening toothpaste on color and surface roughness of dental enamel.Materials and MethodsInitially, the abrasiveness of the toothpastes used (Sorriso Dentes Brancos [SDB]; Colgate Luminous White and Close up White Now) was tested on 30 (n = 10) plexiglass acrylic plates that were submitted to mechanical tooth brushing totalizing 29,200 cycles. Subsequently, 30 participants were selected, and received a toothbrush and nonwhitening toothpaste (SDB). The participants used these products for 7 days and initial color readouts (Spectrophotometer) and surface roughness of one maxillary central incisors was performed after this period of time. For surface roughness readouts, one replica of the maxillary central incisor was obtained by a polyvinyl siloxane impression material (Express) and polyurethane resin. After baseline measurements, participants were separated into three groups (n = 10), according to the toothpaste used. The participants returned after 7, 30, and 90 days when new color readouts and surface roughness were recorded. The measured values were statistically analyzed (2‐way‐ANOVA, repeated measures, Tukey, P < .05).ResultsWhitening toothpastes did not promote significant (P > .05) color alteration and nor increased the surface roughness of the dental enamel in brushing time of the study.ConclusionsThe abrasiveness of whitening toothpaste and the brushing trial period did not affect the surface roughness of dental enamel. However, color changes observed on enamel were above the perceptibility and acceptability thresholds reported in the literature.Clinical SignificanceThe over‐the‐counter toothpastes tested had an effect on dental enamel color above the perceptibility and acceptability thresholds but did not change the surface roughness of the teeth.
Clarifying the Relationships between Microsporidia and Cryptomycota
Authors: Bass David , Czech Lucas , Williams Bryony A. P. , Berney Cédric , Dunthorn Micah , Mahé Frederic , Torruella Guifré , Stentiford Grant D. , Williams Tom A. 
Published: March 2018

AbstractSome protists with microsporidian‐like cell biological characters, including Mitosporidium, Paramicrosporidium, and Nucleophaga, have SSU rRNA gene sequences that are much less divergent than canonical Microsporidia. We analysed the phylogenetic placement and environmental diversity of microsporidian‐like lineages that group near the base of the fungal radiation and show that they group in a clade with metchnikovellids and canonical microsporidians, to the exclusion of the clade including Rozella, in line with what is currently known of their morphology and cell biology. These results show that the phylogenetic scope of Microsporidia has been greatly underestimated. We propose that much of the lineage diversity previously thought to be cryptomycotan/rozellid is actually microsporidian, offering new insights into the evolution of the highly specialized parasitism of canonical Microsporidia. This insight has important implications for our understanding of opisthokont evolution and ecology, and is important for accurate interpretation of environmental diversity. Our analyses also demonstrate that many opisthosporidian (aphelid+rozellid+microsporidian) SSU V4 OTUs from Neotropical forest soils group with the short‐branching Microsporidia, consistent with the abundance of their protist and arthropod hosts in soils. This novel diversity of Microsporidia provides a unique opportunity to investigate the evolutionary origins of a highly specialized clade of major animal parasites.
Systematic review and meta‐analysis of double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, randomized clinical trials using probiotics in chronic periodontitis
Authors: Ikram Sana , Hassan Nuzhat , Raffat Muhammad A. , Mirza Sana , Akram Zohaib 
Published: March 2018

AbstractAimThe aim of the present study was to evaluate the efficacy of probiotics as an adjunct to scaling and root planning (SRP) in the treatment of chronic periodontitis (CP).MethodsThe focused question of the study was: Does adjunctive use of probiotics yield better clinical periodontal outcomes compared to placebo/no treatment group in the treatment of CP? Electronic and manual literature searches were conducted up to December 2017 using the following databases: MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and Cochrane Oral Health Group Trials Register. Forest plots were computed reporting weighted mean difference (WMD) of outcomes and 95% confidence intervals (CI).ResultsSeven clinical studies were included. Four studies showed additional benefits in reducing periodontal probing depth (PPD) and gaining clinical attachment level (CAL), whereas, three studies showed comparable clinical periodontal outcomes between probiotics and SRP/placebo. Significant heterogeneity was observed for PPD reduction and CAL gain. The overall mean difference for CAL gain between probiotics and placebo/SRP was significant (WMD = 1.41, 95% CI = 0.15‐2.67, P = .028) at follow up.ConclusionAdjunctive probiotics could result in additional benefits in CAL gain in CP. Nevertheless, further high‐quality randomized clinical trials with microbiological outcomes are warranted to obtain strong conclusions in this regard.
The non‐human primate kidney transcriptome in fetal development
Authors: Spradling‐Reeves Kimberly D. , Glenn Jeremy P. , Lange Kenneth J. , Kuhn Natalia , Coalson Jacqueline J. , Nijland Mark J. , Li Cun , Nathanielsz Peter W. , Cox Laura A. 
Published: March 2018

AbstractBackgroundLittle is known about the repertoire of non‐human primate kidney genes expressed throughout development. The present work establishes an understanding of the primate renal transcriptome during fetal development in the context of renal maturation.MethodsThe baboon kidney transcriptome was characterized at 60‐day gestation (DG), 90 DG, 125 DG, 140 DG, 160 DG and adulthood (6‐12 years) using gene arrays and validated by QRT‐PCR. Pathway and cluster analyses were used to characterize gene expression in the context of biological pathways.ResultsPathway analysis indicated activation of pathways not previously reported as relevant to kidney development. Cluster analysis also revealed gene splice variants with discordant expression profiles during development.ConclusionsThis study provides the first detailed genetic analysis of the developing primate kidney, and our findings of discordant expression of gene splice variants suggest that gene arrays likely provide a simplified view and demonstrate the need to study the fetal renal proteome.
Assessment of pre‐operative maropitant citrate use in macaque (Macaca fasicularis & Macaca mulatta) neurosurgical procedures
Authors: Steinbach Jaclyn R. , MacGuire Jamus , Chang Shu , Dierks Elizabeth , Roble Gordon S. 
Published: April 2018

AbstractBackgroundRetrospective analysis of post‐operative vomiting (POV) in non‐human primates at our institution was 11%. Based on this additional risk factor for post‐operative complications, we aimed to eliminate or decrease POV by adding an antiemetic, maropitant citrate, to the pre‐medication protocol.MethodsRetrospective and prospective data were collected over a 5‐year period from 46 macaques of two species during 155 procedures. Additionally, blood was collected from five Macaca mulatta to perform a pharmacokinetic analysis.ResultsA 1 mg/kg subcutaneous dose of maropitant given pre‐operatively significantly decreased POV. Findings indicated post‐neurosurgical emesis in Macaca fasicularis was significantly greater than in Macaca mulatta. Pharmacokinetic analysis of maropitant in Macaca mulatta determined the mean maximum plasma concentration to be 113 ng/mL.ConclusionsMaropitant administration prior to anesthesia for neurosurgeries decreased our incidence of POV to 1%. The plasma concentration reaches the proposed plasma level for clinical efficacy approximately 20 minutes after administration.
Optimism, proactive coping and quality of life among nurses: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Cruz Jonas Preposi , Cabrera Darren Neil C , Hufana Only D , Alquwez Nahed , Almazan Joseph 
Published: March 2018

Aims and objectivesTo assess the optimism and proactive coping use of nurses and examined their influence on quality of life.BackgroundNurses are often exposed to challenging situations in the clinical area, which may negatively impact the quality of life of nurses. Hence, being optimistic and proactive may assist nurses to develop a positive outlook towards life, improve overall health, achieve high longevity and low stress levels, and acquire effective coping skills.DesignA descriptive, cross‐sectional design.MethodsA convenience sample of 227 nurses working in the two hospitals in the northern Philippines was surveyed in this study using the Revised Life Orientation Test, Proactive Coping Subscale and World Health Organization Quality of Life‐BREF. A multivariate multiple regression analysis was performed to examine the multivariate effect of the demographic characteristics, optimism and proactive coping of respondents on the four dimensions of quality of life.ResultsThe findings indicate that the nurses had an above‐average level of optimism and use of proactive coping. Associations between some of the nurses’ demographic and work‐related variables and their optimism and proactive coping were established. The nurses reported that their highest quality of life was in the social relationship domain while physical domain was rated the poorest dimension. Optimism and proactive coping along with gender, marital status and type of hospital showed a statistically significant multivariate effect on the four domains of quality of life.ConclusionsOptimism and proactive coping when dealing with work‐related stresses have a positive impact on the quality of life of nurses.Relevance to clinical practiceThis study highlights the importance of optimism and proactive coping in ensuring high levels of quality of life among nurses. The findings can inform the creation of policies and interventions to ensure the highest level of well‐being among nurses, thereby allowing them to better perform their duty of providing quality nursing care.
Associations between patient symptoms and falls in an acute care hospital: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Lerdal Anners , Sigurdsen Line Wangsvik , Hammerstad Heidi , Granheim Tove Irene ,   Risk Study Research Group, Gay Caryl L 
Published: March 2018

Aim and objectivesTo describe associations between patient fall risk and common symptoms among hospitalised inpatients.BackgroundPredictors of falls have been identified in a variety of populations and settings, but the role of inpatients’ symptom experience has not been adequately evaluated.DesignCross‐sectional.MethodsParticipants included 614 medical and elective surgical patients in an acute hospital in Norway. Patient falls during hospitalisation were assessed by self‐report and incident reports. Pain intensity and the occurrence and distress of 15 other symptoms were assessed by self‐report.ResultsPatient falls were associated with male sex and having more comorbidities. Medical patients were more likely to fall than elective surgical patients. In logistic regression analyses, higher symptom counts were associated with increased risk of fall, with each additional symptom conferring a 15% increase in fall risk. Symptom distress related to concentration difficulties, lack of energy, sleep problems, nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea was associated with increased risk of fall, even after adjusting for the influence of age, sex and comorbidities (odds ratios ranged 2.3–4.8). Severe pain, as well as symptom distress related to drowsiness, itching, dizziness or swelling of arms/legs, was also associated with patient falls, although these associations were attenuated after accounting for age, sex and comorbidities. Overall, symptom distress was more strongly associated with fall risk than symptom occurrence.ConclusionsSymptom burden and distress may help identify hospital patients at risk for fall. Additional research is needed to determine whether symptoms are useful for assessing fall risk among hospital patients and other high‐risk populations. If symptoms are useful indicators of fall risk, they should be considered for inclusion in standardised risk assessments.Relevance to clinical practiceClinicians ought to pay particular attention to increased fall risk among patients reporting many symptoms and those experiencing distress from concentration difficulties, fatigue, sleep problems, nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea.
Prevalence and factors associated with polypharmacy in the older people: 2006–2014
Authors: Carmona‐Torres Juan Manuel , Cobo‐Cuenca Ana Isabel , Recio‐Andrade Beatriz , Laredo‐Aguilera José Alberto , Martins María Manuela , Rodríguez‐Borrego María Aurora 
Published: March 2018

Aims and objectivesTo analyse the prevalence, risk factors and evolution over time of polypharmacy and self‐medication in the older people in Spain from 2006–2014.BackgroundPolypharmacy is a public health problem for older people worldwide which causes different negative effects on their health, increasing health costs and pharmaceutical spending. However, previous studies do not include nationally representative samples and none of them provide updated data.DesignCross‐sectional study with community‐dwelling older adults (N = 26,277) who participated in the National Health Survey in Spain in 2006 and 2011/2012 and the European Health Survey in Spain in 2009 and 2014.MethodsPolypharmacy (defined as use of five or more medications in the last 2 weeks), excessive polypharmacy (defined as use of ten or more medications in the last 2 weeks) and self‐medication (defined as use of medications without a prescription) were evaluated. A logistic regression was used for to know the association between polypharmacy and self‐medication with the sociodemographic characteristic.ResultsThe participants were 62% female and 38% male. The mean medication consumption was 2.96 (SD ± 2.11). Prevalence of polypharmacy was present in 21.9%, prevalence of excessive polypharmacy was 0.6%, and prevalence of self‐medication was 10.7%. The most commonly used medications were for blood pressure (51.6%), pain (42.8%) and cholesterol (28.2%). Polypharmacy is associated with sex (females), age, being separated/divorced/widowed, lack of education, higher body mass index, being bedridden during the last 2 weeks and self‐medication.ConclusionsThe prevalence of polypharmacy and prevalence of self‐medication are considerable, and they increased significantly from 2006–2014.Relevance to clinical practiceTo deal with polypharmacy is a big challenge for nurses. These data suggest to establish innovative clinical strategies in which the health professionals and the patients are involved to improve the personal behaviour with medicines and to reduce the risks and costs of polypharmacy and self‐medication.