bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Communicative hand‐waving gestures facilitate object learning in preverbal infants
Authors: Hirai Masahiro , Kanakogi Yasuhiro 
Published: December 2018

AbstractThe theory of natural pedagogy has proposed that infants can use ostensive signals, including eye contact, infant‐directed speech, and contingency to learn from others. However, the role of bodily gestures, such as hand‐waving, in social learning has been largely ignored. To address this gap in the literature, this study sought to determine whether 4‐month‐old infants exhibited a preference for horizontal or vertical (control) hand‐waving gestures. We also examined whether horizontal hand‐waving gestures followed by pointing facilitated the process of object learning in 9‐month‐old infants. Results showed that 4‐month‐old infants preferred horizontal hand‐waving gestures to vertical hand‐waving gestures, even when featural and contextual information were removed. Furthermore, horizontal hand‐waving gestures induced identity encoding for cued objects, whereas vertical gestures did not. These findings highlight the role of communicative intent embedded in bodily movements and indicate that hand‐waving can serve as a new type of ostensive signal.
Neural coding of the sound envelope is changed in the inferior colliculus immediately following acoustic trauma
Authors: Heeringa Amarins N. , van Dijk Pim 
Published: December 2018

AbstractSensorineural hearing loss is often accompanied by difficulties with understanding speech in fluctuating backgrounds, suggesting that neural coding of complex sound features, such as the sound envelope, is impaired. Here, we studied how temporal and rate coding of the envelope is affected in the inferior colliculus immediately after acoustic trauma. Neural activity in response to amplitude‐modulated noise was recorded from the inferior colliculus of the guinea pig, before and immediately after a 1‐hr 11‐kHz acoustic trauma. Units with a characteristic frequency (CF) below the trauma frequency (<11 kHz) showed increased response gains, a measure for temporal coding of the sound envelope, especially at low modulation frequencies (≤128 Hz). Units with a CF > 11 kHz, which had large acoustic trauma‐induced threshold shifts, had decreased response gains to amplitude‐modulated noise. Shapes of temporal modulation transfer functions shifted toward a higher proportion of low‐pass shapes in low‐CF units, and to less band‐pass shapes in high‐CF units. Furthermore, driven firing rates decreased, especially at high modulation frequencies for high‐CF units. The observed changes occurred immediately following trauma and were thus a result of the immediate trauma‐induced damage to the auditory system. If also present in human subjects, reduced response gains in high‐frequency units could disrupt coding of consonants and consequently impair speech understanding in noisy environments. Moreover, the enhanced temporal coding by low‐CF units of the low modulation frequencies could overly amplify responses to low‐frequency noise, further deteriorating listening in noise.
Acid sensing ion channel 2: A new potential player in the pathophysiology of multiple sclerosis
Authors: Fazia Teresa , Pastorino Roberta , Notartomaso Serena , Busceti Carla , Imbriglio Tiziana , Cannella Milena , Gentilini Davide , Morani Gabriele , Ticca Anna , Bitti Pierpaolo , Berzuini Carlo , Dalmay Tamas , Battaglia Giuseppe , Bernardinelli Luisa 
Published: December 2018

AbstractAcid‐sensing ion channels (ASICs) are proton‐gated channels involved in multiple biological functions such as: pain modulation, mechanosensation, neurotransmission, and neurodegeneration. Earlier, we described the genetic association, within the Nuoro population, between Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and rs28936, located in ASIC2 3′UTR. Here we investigated the potential involvement of ASIC2 in MS inflammatory process. We induced experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) in wild‐type (WT), knockout Asic1−/− and Asic2−/− mice and observed a significant reduction of clinical score in Asic1−/− mice and a significant reduction in the clinical score in Asic2−/− mice in a limited time window (i.e., at days 20–23 after immunization). Immunohistochemistry confirmed the reduction in adaptive immune cell infiltrates in the spinal cord of EAE Asic1−/− mice. Analysis of mechanical allodynia, showed a significant higher pain threshold in Asic2−/− mice under physiological conditions, before immunization, as compared to WT mice and Asic1−/−. A significant reduction in pain threshold was observed in all three strains of mice after immunization. More importantly, analysis of human autoptic brain tissue in MS and control samples showed an increase of ASIC2 mRNA in MS samples. Subsequently, in vitro luciferase reporter gene assays, showed that ASIC2 expression is under possible miRNA regulation, in a rs28936 allele‐specific manner. Taken together, these findings suggest a potential role of ASIC2 in the pathophysiology of MS.
Barriers to Open Government Data (OGD) initiative in Tanzania: Stakeholders’ perspectives
Authors: Donald Shao Deo , Saxena Stuti 
Published: December 2018

AbstractOpen Government Data (OGD) initiatives are picking up across the globe with their emphasis upon the tenets of transparency, collaboration, and participation. While much of the research has remained confined at unraveling the theoretical and conceptual dimensions of OGD, empirical investigations are visibly lacking, especially in the African context. Using a qualitative research methodology, we analyze the responses received from relevant stakeholders—representatives from public and private sector—regarding their views about the OGD initiative in Tanzania. Our findings show that the OGD initiative in Tanzania is in an emerging stage and there are barriers (organizational, social, legal, and technical) toward instituting a robust OGD initiative in the country. Further, we find that there is inertia among the government departments in terms of publishing data sets. Our findings provide a sounding board for further research on the sustainability of OGD initiatives in Tanzania and the other African countries, by and large.
Presence of varices in patients after hepatitis C virus eradication predicts deterioration in the FIB‐4 index
Authors: Seko Yuya , Moriguchi Michihisa , Hara Tasuku , Kataoka Seita , Okuda Keiichiroh , Furuta Mitsuhiro , Takemura Masashi , Taketani Hiroyoshi , Umemura Atsushi , Nishikawa Taichiro , Yamaguchi Kanji , Yasui Kohichiroh , Minami Masahito , Itoh Yoshito 
Published: December 2018

AimsThe liver function of patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection who obtained sustained virologic response (SVR) has been known to improve after HCV eradication. However, a predictor of liver function after SVR has not been definitively identified. The aim of this retrospective study was to identify a predictor of deteriorated liver function and Fibrosis‐4 (FIB‐4) index after SVR was achieved by direct‐acting antiviral (DAA) treatment.MethodsThis study retrospectively enrolled 248 patients who obtained SVR by DAA treatment. None of the patients developed hepatocellular carcinoma during this study. Liver function was assessed at the end of treatment (EOT) and at 24, 48, 72, and 96 weeks after EOT.ResultsAt 96 weeks after EOT, the serum aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase levels were significantly decreased from those at EOT. The platelet count was significantly increased from 14.9 × 104/μL at EOT to 17.1 × 104/μL at 96 weeks after EOT. Ten patients showed an increased FIB‐4 (>1.00) index. Multivariate analysis with 171 patients who underwent endoscopic assessment revealed that the presence of varices was an independent predictor of deterioration in the FIB‐4 index (odds ratio, 5.56; P = 0.041).ConclusionMost of the study patients who obtained SVR showed improved liver function after EOT. Patients without increasing platelet counts after SVR due to DAA therapy should be evaluated for complications induced by portal hypertension.
A highly resistant structure between the cuticle and the cortex of human hair. II. CARB, a penetration barrier
Authors: Takahashi Toshie 
Published: December 2018

AbstractObjectiveWe previously reported that a chemically resistant structure is present at the interface between the cuticle and the cortex of human hair. The goal of this study was to identify the position of that structure and to clarify its barrier ability.MethodsUntreated, partially and completely decuticled hair fibres were characterized. The correlation between the number of cuticle layers and the penetration depth of a dye into the cortex was microscopically investigated. In addition, similar measurements were performed using hair with a denatured cell membrane complex.ResultsThe penetration depth of the dye into the cortex showed no statistically significant correlation with the number of cuticle layers in the case of partially decuticled hair fibres (the number of cuticle layers ranged from one to four). Penetration of the dye proceeded drastically just when the last cuticle layer was lost, but denaturation of the cell membrane complex did not affect the depth of penetration. That suggested that the penetration barrier at the interface between the cuticle and the cortex is not the cell membrane complex, but rather is the resistant structure previously reported. It was observed that a thin layer structure is located beneath the endocuticle of the innermost cuticle cell layer, only in the range where the cuticle borders the cortex. It is thought that this is the structure in question.ConclusionThese results demonstrate that a highly resistant structure located at the interface between the cuticle and the cortex of human hair acts as a penetration barrier. We propose that structure be named CARB, cuticle anchored resistant base.
Root dentinal microcracks: a post‐extraction experimental phenomenon?
Authors: De‐Deus G. , Cavalcante D. M. , Belladonna F. G. , Carvalhal J. , Souza E. M. , Lopes R. T. , Versiani M. A. , Silva E. J. N. L. , Dummer P. M. H. 
Published: December 2018

AbstractAimTo investigate the prevalence, location and pattern of pre‐existing microcracks in non‐endodontically treated teeth from fresh cadavers. Micro‐computed tomography (micro‐CT) technology was used as the analytical tool enabling full screening of the root dentine with the teeth retained in their original alveolar socket.MethodologyAs a pilot study and to validate the present method, a series of 4 high‐resolution scans were performed on one bone‐block specimen with teeth collected post‐mortem: (i) entire bone‐block including the teeth, (ii) second molar tooth extracted atraumatically from the bone‐block, (iii) extracted tooth dehydrated to induce dentinal defects and (iv) entire bone‐block following reinsertion of the extracted tooth into its matching alveolar socket. In the main study, forty‐two dentoalveolar maxillary and mandibular bone‐blocks each containing 3–5 adjacent teeth (a total of 178 teeth) were collected post‐mortem and scanned in a micro‐CT device. All cross‐section images of the 178 teeth (n = 65 530) were screened from the cementoenamel junction to the apex to identify the presence of dentinal defects.ResultsIn the pilot study, the microcracks observable when the dehydrated tooth was outside the bone‐block remained detectable when the entire bone‐block plus reinserted tooth was scanned. This means that the screening process revealed the presence of the same microcracks in both experimental situations (the tooth outside and inside the maxillary bone‐block). From a total of 178 teeth in the bone‐blocks removed from cadavers, 65 530 cross‐sectional images were analysed and no dentinal microcracks were detected.ConclusionsThis in situ cadaveric model revealed the lack of pre‐existing dentinal microcracks in non‐endodontically treated teeth. Thus, the finding of dentinal microcracks observed in previous cross‐sectional images of stored extracted teeth is unsound and not valid. It should be assumed that microcracks observed in stored extracted teeth subjected to root canal procedures are a result of the extraction process and/or the post‐extraction storage conditions. Therefore, as a consequence, the presence of such dentinal microcracks in stored extracted teeth – observable in cross‐sectional images of the roots – should be referred to as experimental dentinal microcracks.
PROTECT – Trial: A cluster RCT to study the effectiveness of a repositioning aid and tailored repositioning to increase repositioning compliance
Authors: De Meyer Dorien , Van Hecke Ann , Verhaeghe Sofie , Beeckman Dimitri 
Published: December 2018

AbstractAimTo study the effectiveness of tailored repositioning and a turning and repositioning system on: (a) nurses’ compliance to repositioning frequencies; (b) body posture of patients after repositioning; (c) incidence of pressure ulcers and incontinence‐associated dermatitis; (d) nurses’ and patients’ preferences, comfort and acceptability; and (e) budget impact.BackgroundPatient‐tailored systematic repositioning is key in pressure ulcer prevention. To date, a clinical decision‐making tool is lacking and compliance to pressure ulcer prevention guidelines is low. Research concerning commercially available turning and repositioning systems is lacking.DesignMulticentre, cluster, three‐arm, randomized, controlled pragmatic trial.MethodsTwo hundred and twenty‐seven patients at risk of pressure ulcer development were recruited at 29 wards in 16 hospitals between February 2016 and December 2017. Wards were randomly assigned to two experimental groups and one control group.ResultsNurses’ compliance to repositioning frequencies increased significantly in the experimental groups when patients were cared for in bed (94.6% vs. 69% and 84.9% vs. 71.4%). Applying the turning and repositioning system was associated with significantly more correctly positioned patients (30–45° tilted side‐lying position) (69.6% vs. 34.6%). Few pressure ulcers and incontinence‐associated dermatitis incidents occurred. Both patients and nurses were positive about the intervention. Higher labour costs related to repositioning in bed were found in the control group.ConclusionThis was the first study investigating the effect of tailored repositioning and the use of a repositioning aid to increase nurses’ compliance to repositioning. The results were in favour of the interventions yet demonstrating the importance of follow‐up and education.Trial registrationThis study is registered at https://clinicaltrials.gov/NCT02690753;NCT02690753.
Wet or dry? The difficulty of identifying the presence of water during crustal melting
Authors: Schwindinger Martin , Weinberg Roberto F. , Clos Frediano 
Published: December 2018

AbstractPartial melting of continental crust and evolution of granitic magmas are inseparably linked to the availability of H2O. In the absence of a free aqueous fluid, melting takes place at relatively high temperatures by dehydration of hydrous minerals, whereas in its presence, melting temperatures are lowered, and melting need not involve hydrous minerals. With the exception of anatexis in water‐saturated environments where anhydrous peritectic minerals are absent, there is no reliable indicator that clearly identifies the presence of a free aqueous fluid during anatexis. Production of Ab‐rich magmas or changes in LILE ratios, such as an increase in Sr and decrease in Rb indicating increased involvement of plagioclase, are rough guidelines to the presence of aqueous fluids. Nevertheless, all indicators have caveats and cannot be unequivocally applied, allowing for the persistence of a bias in the literature towards dehydration melting. Investigation of mineral equilibria modelling of three metasedimentary protoliths of the Kangaroo Island migmatites in South Australia, shows that the main indicator for the presence of small volumes of excess water under upper amphibolite to lower granulite facies conditions (660–750°C) is the melt volume produced. Melt composition, modal content or chemical composition of peritectic minerals such as cordierite, sillimanite or garnet are relatively insensitive to the presence of free water. However, the mobility of melt during open system behaviour makes it difficult to determine the melt volume produced. We therefore argue that the presence of small volumes of excess water might be much more common than so far inferred, with large impact on the buffering of crustal temperatures and fertility, and therefore rheology of the continental crust.
The role of specialist nurses for organ donation: A solution for maximising organ donation rates?
Authors: Tocher Jennifer , Neades Barbara , Smith Graeme D. , Kelly Daniel 
Published: December 2018

AbstractAims and objectivesTo explore the role that Donor Transplant Co‐ordinators have played and the future potential of Specialist Nurses for Organ Donation (SN‐ODs), within organ donation strategies in the UK and other countries.BackgroundOrgan donation and transplantation rates vary extensively around the world. However, there is a universal shortage of deceased donors, prompting different approaches to increase transplantation rates. Within the UK, the Clinical Lead for Organ Donation and Specialist Nurse in Organ Donation undertake a key role in the implementation of the Organ Donation Strategy. The Human Transplantation (Wales) Act 2015 is a recent development which facilities a deemed (presumed) consent approach to organ donation, the Specialist Nurse in Organ Donation undertakes a major role identifying the potential donor in this situation by confirming the deemed consent status of the donor and supporting bereaved relatives. UK governments in England and Scotland are currently seeking legislative changes to an opt‐out system of organ donation, in line with the Wales change.DesignThis discursive paper explores the role from Donor Transplant Co‐ordinator to Specialist Nurse in Organ Donation (SN‐OD) within organ donation policy in different settings, but with a specific focus on the UK. The paper clarifies the current and future potential of nurses working with bereaved families when requesting authorisation for donation.Implications for nursingThe current scope and future potential of Donor Transplant Co‐ordinator and Specialist Nurse in Organ Donation roles need better recognition. Little empirical data exist about the key role that these nurses play in the organ donation process, especially in relation to gaining authorisation to proceed to donation.ConclusionThere is a need to clarify the role of the Specialist Nurse in Organ Donation and their impact on improving rates of organ donation.
Tokenism or true partnership: Parental involvement in a child’s acute pain care
Authors: Vasey Jackie , Smith Joanna , Kirshbaum Marilynne N. , Chirema Kathleen 
Published: December 2018

AbstractAims and objectivesTo explore parental involvement in the child's acute pain care and establish ways in which parental preferences for involvement in their child's care can be identified, facilitated and enhanced by nurses.BackgroundDespite growing evidence supporting effective acute pain management in children and the availability of national and international practice guidelines, children still experience acute pain. Involving parents in their child's pain care has been identified as being a central tenet of pain management in children.Design and methodsA qualitative study using an ethnographical approach with nonparticipant observation and follow‐up semi‐structured interviews was undertaken. Nurses (n = 14), parents (n = 41), grandparents (n = 2), other relative (n = 1) and children (n = 30) participated. The framework approach underpinned data analysis. Consolidated criteria for reporting qualitative research (COREQ) enabled comprehensive reporting of the study.ResultsThree concepts emerged from the data: “parents as advocates for their child,” “nurses promoting involvement and partnership” and “nurses unintentionally preventing involvement and partnership.” Variations in the way parents were involved in their child's pain care were identified. Despite family‐centred care being the dominant model of involving families in their child's care, evidence of this being implemented was limited. Parents attempted to advocate effective pain care for their child, whether or not they were supported by nurses.ConclusionsParental involvement in their child's acute pain care can improve the child's pain experience, reduce parental anxiety and increase parents’ satisfaction in care. Nurses aspired to involve parents in pain care, but did not always enact this in practice.Relevance for practiceChildren deserve optimum pain care, which includes parental involvement. Parental involvement underpinned by the principles of family‐centred care was poorly implemented. Parents attempted to be involved and advocate for their child's pain care whether or not they were supported by nurses. An alternative approach for supporting parents to advocate in their child's acute pain care is offered, the “Partnership in Pain Care Model.”
Inferring sleep stage from local field potentials recorded in the subthalamic nucleus of Parkinson's patients
Authors: Christensen Elijah , Abosch Aviva , Thompson John A. , Zylberberg Joel 
Published: December 2018

AbstractParkinson's disease (PD) is highly comorbid with sleep dysfunction. In contrast to motor symptoms, few therapeutic interventions exist to address sleep symptoms in PD. Subthalamic nucleus (STN) deep brain stimulation (DBS) treats advanced PD motor symptoms and may improve sleep architecture. As a proof of concept toward demonstrating that STN‐DBS could be used to identify sleep stages commensurate with clinician‐scored polysomnography (PSG), we developed a novel artificial neural network (ANN) that could trigger targeted stimulation in response to inferred sleep state from STN local field potentials (LFPs) recorded from implanted DBS electrodes. STN LFP recordings were collected from nine PD patients via a percutaneous cable attached to the DBS lead, during a full night's sleep (6–8 hr) with concurrent polysomnography (PSG). We trained a feedforward neural network to prospectively identify sleep stage with PSG‐level accuracy from 30‐s epochs of LFP recordings. Our model's sleep‐stage predictions match clinician‐identified sleep stage with a mean accuracy of 91% on held‐out epochs. Furthermore, leave‐one‐group‐out analysis also demonstrates 91% mean classification accuracy for novel subjects. These results, which classify sleep stage across a typical heterogenous sample of PD patients, may indicate spectral biomarkers for automatically scoring sleep stage in PD patients with implanted DBS devices. Further development of this model may also focus on adapting stimulation during specific sleep stages to treat targeted sleep deficits.