bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Notch1 activates angiogenic regulator Netrin4 in endothelial cells
Authors: Liu Qiang , Allen Thaddeus D. , Song Wei , Wada Youichiro , Lobe Corrinne G. , Liu Ju 
Published: February 2019

AbstractNetrin4 (NTN4) is a chemotropic factor that regulates angiogenesis. We found that endothelial expression of the activated, intracellular domain of Notch1 (NICD1), significantly up‐regulated NTN4 mRNA as well as intracellular NTN4 protein in both transgenic mice and cultured human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). Notch1 activation also increased NTN4 secretion from HUVECs. We subsequently demonstrated that NICD1 bound to CSL (CBF1, Suppressor of Hairless, Lag‐1), a core component of Notch transcription complex, at the −53 element of the human NTN4 gene promoter. Loss of the −53 element compromised NICD1‐induced NTN4 expression. Our results suggest a conserved role for Notch signalling in transcriptional regulation of endothelial NTN4.
Postural Tremor Is Associated with Gait and Balance Impairments in Community‐Dwelling Older People
Authors: Xu Xitong , Chen Jie , Chen Meijie , Gu Zhuqin , Ji Shaozhen , Liu Shuying , Chan Piu 
Published: February 2019

ObjectivesWe sought to assess associations of postural tremor with gait and balance impairments among community‐dwelling older people in both cross‐sectional and longitudinal analyses.DesignA prospective cohort study.SettingCommunities in Beijing, China.ParticipantsThis study included 7075 individuals aged 55 years or older.MeasurementsPostural tremor was assessed using a two‐step method (tremor screening followed by a confirmation examination of positive cases) at baseline. Gait and balance performances were measured with the Tinetti Mobility Test at baseline and 1 year later.ResultsAt baseline, 45 (24.7%) of 182 tremor cases vs 663 (9.6%) of 6893 controls had gait and balance impairments. At 1‐year follow‐up, 19 (21.1%) of 90 tremor cases vs 416 (9.8%) of 4262 controls experienced a rapid decline in gait and balance performance. After controlling for potential confounders, postural tremor was associated with gait and balance impairments at baseline (odds ratio [OR] = 1.77; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.20‐2.62; p = .004) and a rapid decline in gait and balance performance at 1‐year follow‐up (OR = 1.99; 95% CI = 1.17‐3.39; p = .01).ConclusionIn this population‐based cohort study, we found postural tremor was associated with gait and balance impairments among community‐dwelling older people in both cross‐sectional and longitudinal analyses. Our findings suggest that motor function should be routinely evaluated and monitored in older people with postural tremor. J Am Geriatr Soc 67:799–803, 2019.
Nanostructured lipid carriers incorporating prickly pear seed oil for the encapsulation of vitamin A
Authors: AlZahabi Sham , Sakr Omar S. , Ramadan Adham A. 
Published: February 2019

SummaryBackgroundSolid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) are dispersions synthesized by replacing liquid lipid in an o/w emulsion with solid lipids. Nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) improve on some of the major limitations of the SLNs as NLCs use liquid lipids along with crystalline solid fatty acids to build the core.AimsThis work aims to investigate the potential advantage of using Prickly Pear (PP) seed oil to develop NLCs for topical delivery of vitamin A.MethodsFour PP‐based NLC formulations with varying composition have been developed using the hot homogenization method and compared with a SLN formulation that is free of PP oil. The effect of this variation on entrapment efficiency, in vitro release behavior, and ex vivo permeation, was investigated. Additionally, particle size and polydispersity index (PDI) upon storage, zeta potential, and thermal behavior were characterized.ResultsPP‐based NLCs exhibited smaller particle size in the range of 215‐244 nm, and PDI <0.3. In contrast, SLN having no PP oil had a larger diameter of 365 nm, with heterogeneous distribution (0.92 PDI). In assessing the in vitro release, an inverse relationship was observed between the diffusion flux and the entrapment efficiency. The changes in the constituting matrix of the NLCs lead to a significant potential variation in their properties, and hence allowing it to be tailored for specific usages.ConclusionsIn all cases, NLCs formulations have shown superior attributes to the SLN carriers. This was linked in most cases to the presence of PP oil, supporting the value of utilizing PP oil in cosmeceutical applications.
Flawed self‐assessment in hand hygiene: A major contributor to infections in clinical practice?
Authors: Kelcikova Simona , Mazuchova Lucia , Bielena Lubica , Filova Lenka 
Published: February 2019

AbstractAimTo assess the quality of self‐assessment and the attitude of healthcare workers (HCWs) to hand hygiene (HH) as possible factors of unsatisfactory HH compliance in clinical practice.BackgroundNoncompliance of HH causes healthcare‐acquired infections (HAI) in patients. It is assumed that HH‐related infections make up approximately 80% of all infections in clinical practice. Our observations suggest that self‐assessment and attitude might be surprisingly important factors.Design and methodThe cross‐sectional approach using questionnaire and direct observation was applied. We followed STROBE guidelines. In total, questionnaires of 639 HCWs of surgical departments were included in the study, and 127 HCWs had been also directly observed.ResultsHigh self‐assessment regarding HH compliance and its knowledge was reported by 74% and 83% of HCWs, respectively. At the same time, only 51% of HCWs positively evaluated their colleagues with respect to HH. Similar to previous studies, we have found significant differences between physicians and nurses regarding the level of self‐assessment, attitude and perception of HH. Physicians were more critical in self‐assessment and considered HH less important compared to nurses. The observations revealed drawbacks in HH practices. The high level of self‐overassessment might be a contributing factor to noncompliance with HH.ConclusionsIt is necessary to establish systematic professional training and education of HCWs in relation to their HH, and to continuously monitor and evaluate the level of self‐assessment in clinical practice, mainly in surgery.Relevance to clinical practiceA reasonable objective level of self‐assessment and attitude to HH are the most important conditions for preventing of HAI in patients.
Expectations and experiences of nursing students in supporting new mothers to breastfeed: A descriptive qualitative study
Authors: Yang Shu‐Fei , Burns Elaine , Salamonson Yenna , Schmied Virginia 
Published: February 2019

AbstractBackgroundImproving breastfeeding support to mothers has been the focus of several national and international health organisations. There is evidence that theoretical and clinical education improves breastfeeding knowledge and attitudes among nursing and other health professional students prior to clinical placement, to support women who are breastfeeding.Aims and objectivesTo explore the expectations and experiences of Taiwanese nursing students in supporting breastfeeding on clinical placement. To gain additional insight into student experience, we also sought the perspectives of mothers, nursing staff and teachers about the role of nursing students in supporting breastfeeding mothers.DesignA qualitative descriptive approach guided this study.MethodsFocus groups and small group interviews were conducted with four participant groups in southern Taiwan. Ethical approval was obtained prior to data collection. The consolidated criteria for reporting qualitative research checklist was used.FindingsThree main themes emerged from the data that captured the nursing students’ experiences during clinical practice, which were “High expectations”; “The reality is different”; and “Improving confidence in students.” The study found that students lacked confidence in supporting breastfeeding in the clinical setting. Students were expected to support women to achieve their breastfeeding goals under the supervision. The students highlighted the importance of establishing trust to effectively support mothers, and for the students to feel confident to provide the breastfeeding information.ConclusionsDespite structured theoretical breastfeeding education prior to clinical placement, students did not feel they were adequately prepared to support women who are breastfeeding during their clinical placement. The findings demonstrated the need for further support in developing effective communication skills and building confidence prior to clinical placement.Relevance to clinical practiceEnhancing the content of theoretical and simulated breastfeeding education to incorporate women's breastfeeding experience combined with realistic clinical student allocation could serve to improve students’ confidence in supporting breastfeeding.
The preparation and investigation of spinosin–phospholipid complex self-microemulsifying drug delivery system based on the absorption characteristics of spinosin
Authors: Song Panpan , Lai Changjiangsheng , Xie Junbo , Zhang Yanqing 
Published: February 2019

Abstract

Objectives
The aim of this research was to investigate the intestinal absorption characteristics and mechanisms of spinosin (SPI), and a new dosage form was prepared to increase the intestinal absorption of SPI.

Methods
In this study, the intestinal absorption characteristics and mechanisms of SPI were first investigated using in situ absorption model and Caco-2 monolayer model. Subsequently, the phospholipid complex (PLC) loaded with SPI was prepared followed by a self-microemulsifying drug delivery system (SMEDDS) technique for developing a more efficient formulation.

Key findings
The results showed that the absorption rate constant (0.02 h−1) and absorption percentage (10%) of SPI were small. Paracellular and active transport pathways mainly mediated the intestinal absorption of SPI. Moreover, SPI-PLC-SMEDDS showed a nanoscale particle size and excellent dispersibility in vitro. The cellular uptake and transportation properties of SPI-PLC-SMEDDS in the Caco-2 cell model were improved significantly. Besides, a statistically dramatically higher oral bioavailability (almost fivefold) was observed following the oral administration of SPI-PLC-SMEDDS than free SPI on the basis of pharmacokinetic experiment results. Furthermore, the SPI-PLC-SMEDDS exhibited certain immunization.

Conclusions
SPI-PLC-SMEDDS could be a promising oral drug delivery system to improve the absorption of SPI.
Association of chronic enteropathy activity index, blood urea concentration, and risk of death in dogs with protein‐losing enteropathy
Authors: Kathrani Aarti , Sánchez‐Vizcaíno Fernando , Hall Edward J. 
Published: February 2019

BackgroundMalnutrition is associated with increased risk of premature death in humans with inflammatory bowel disease.Hypothesis/ObjectiveTo determine if historical, clinical, and laboratory markers of malnutrition in dogs at the time of histologic diagnosis of protein‐losing enteropathy (PLE) caused by chronic enteropathy (CE) or lymphangiectasia are associated with increased risk of death.AnimalsSeventy‐one client‐owned dogs diagnosed with PLE.MethodsThe medical records were retrospectively searched for cases of PLE, diagnosed with CE or lymphangiectasia on the basis of histopathology of intestinal biopsies at a referral hospital. For each case, various variables at the time of diagnostic investigation were recorded and follow‐up obtained by telephone contact with the referring veterinarian.ResultsA multivariable cox model indicated that canine chronic enteropathy activity index (CCEAI) and blood urea concentration were significantly associated with death (P values <.01). For each unit increase in CCEAI, the hazard of death increased by 22.9% (confidence interval [CI]: 6.9%‐41.2%). Dogs with a CCEAI of ≤8 and dogs with urea ≤7 mmol/L survived 256 days longer (P = .001, CI: 106.7‐405.4 days) and 279 days longer (P = .009, CI: 70.0‐488.7 days) than those with a CCEAI of >8 and urea >7 mmol/L on average, respectively, when followed up for 647 days.Conclusions and Clinical ImportanceIncreased CCEAI and blood urea concentration at the time of diagnosis might be predictive of death in dogs with PLE caused by CE or lymphangiectasia.
Recent history, current status, conservation and management of native mammalian carnivore species in Great Britain
Authors: Sainsbury Katherine A. , Shore Richard F. , Schofield Henry , Croose Elizabeth , Campbell Ruairidh D. , Mcdonald Robbie A. 
Published: February 2019

AbstractAfter historical declines in population sizes and ranges, we compare and contrast the recent history and contemporary variation in the status of Great Britain's eight native mammalian carnivore species from the 1960s to 2017.WildcatFelis silvestrisconservation status is unfavourable and is masked by hybridisation with domestic catsFelis catus. Red foxesVulpes vulpesremain widespread but are currently declining. European otterLutra lutra, European pine martenMartes martesand European polecatMustela putoriuspopulations are characterised by rapid recovery. Otters have almost completely recolonised Great Britain, polecats have expanded their range throughout southern Britain from refugia in Wales and pine martens have expanded their range from the Scottish Highlands. European badgersMeles meleshave generally increased in population density. Status assessments of stoatsMustela ermineaand weaselsMustela nivalisare data‐deficient but available evidence suggests that stoats may have increased while weasels may have declined.Anthropogenic processes influencing carnivore status include legal protections, habitat quality, reintroductions, predator control, pollutants, hybridisation and diseases and their associated control practices. Population effects of contaminants, such as anticoagulant rodenticides, remain poorly characterised. The widespread interface with domestic and feral cats makes the wildcat's situation precarious. Recent declines in rabbitOryctolagus cuniculuspopulations are a concern, given that several carnivore species depend on them as food.We conclude that, with the exception of the wildcat, the status of Great Britain's mammalian carnivores has markedly improved since the 1960s. Better understanding of the social aspects of interactions between humans and expanding predator populations is needed if conflict is to be avoided and long‐term co‐existence with people is to be possible.
Using social norms to encourage healthier eating
Authors: Higgs S. , Liu J. , Collins E. I. M. , Thomas J. M. 
Published: February 2019

AbstractWhat and how much people choose to eat is influenced by social context. People tend to use the eating habits of others as a guide to appropriate consumption. This suggests that one way of encouraging healthier eating would be to provide information about the healthy eating choices of others. Research conducted as part of an Economic and Social Research Council‐funded project investigated the effect of providing information about how others eat on the purchase and consumption of vegetables in both laboratory and in field settings (restaurants). In a laboratory‐based study, we found that that while overall vegetable intake was not increased, exposure to a novel ‘liking norm’ message increased the selection and intake of broccoli from a buffet by participants who were low habitual consumers of vegetables. We also found that the liking norm increased broccoli intake even when there was a delay between exposure to the message and selection at the buffet, suggesting that the effects of social message exposure may persist beyond initial exposure. In two online studies and a laboratory study, we found that the effect of exposure to a descriptive social norm message on eating intentions and intake was moderated by the participants’ motivation to identify with the norm referent group. In three intervention studies, exposure to social norm messaging was associated with increased purchases of meals with vegetables in restaurant settings. Taken together, these results suggest that it is feasible to use social norm messages in restaurant settings and they provide information that could be used to implement randomised controlled trials.
Nationwide epidemiologic survey of Kawasaki disease in Japan, 2015–2016
Authors: Makino Nobuko , Nakamura Yosikazu , Yashiro Mayumi , Kosami Koki , Matsubara Yuri , Ae Ryusuke , Aoyama Yasuko , Yanagawa Hiroshi 
Published: February 2019

AbstractBackgroundApproximately 50 years have passed since Kawasaki disease (KD) was first reported. The KD nationwide survey began in 1970. Although >360 000 cases have already been reported in Japan, the cause is still unknown. In Japan, the number of patients and incidence rate of KD has continued to increase. It is necessary to examine the trend of the occurrence in the surveillance of KD.MethodsThe nationwide survey of patient incidence in 2015 and 2016 was conducted in 2017, as the 24th nationwide survey of KD. A questionnaire was sent to pediatric departments in hospitals with >100 beds and specialized pediatric hospitals, and was responded to by the attending pediatricians.ResultsThe total number of patients in 2 years was 31 595, and the sex ratio (male/female) was 1.34. The incidence rate (/100 000 children aged 0–4 years/year) was 330.2 (371.2 in boys, 287.3 in girls) in 2015, and 309.0 (343.2 in boys, 273.2 in girls) in 2016. The number of patients by month peaked in January. The age‐specific incidence rate according to sex was highest in children between 9 and 11 months of age, after which the incidence rate gradually decreased with advancing age.ConclusionsWe summarize the most recent nationwide survey of KD and consider the change in the epidemiologic picture.
Successful hematopoietic stem cell transplantation from an HLA‐mismatched parent for engraftment failure after unrelated cord blood transplantation in patients with juvenile myelomonocytic leukemia: Report of two cases
Authors: Akahane Koshi , Watanabe Atsushi , Furuichi Yoshiyuki , Somazu Shinpei , Oshiro Hiroko , Goi Kumiko , Sakashita Kazuo , Muramatsu Hideki , Hama Asahito , Takahashi Yoshiyuki , Koike Kenichi , Kojima Seiji , Sugita Kanji , Inukai Takeshi 
Published: February 2019

AbstractJMML is an aggressive hematopoietic malignancy of early childhood, and allogeneic HSCT is the only curative treatment for this disease. Umbilical cord blood is one of donor sources for HSCT in JMML patients who do not have an HLA‐compatible relative, but engraftment failure remains a major problem. Here, we report two cases of JMML who were successfully rescued by HSCT from an HLA‐mismatched parent after development of primary engraftment failure following unrelated CBT. Both patients had severe splenomegaly and underwent unrelated CBT from an HLA‐mismatched donor. Immediately after diagnosis of engraftment failure, both patients underwent HSCT from their parent. For the second HSCT, we used RIC regimens consisting of FLU, CY, and a low dose of rabbit ATG with or without TBI and additionally administered ETP considering their persistent severe splenomegaly. Both patients achieved engraftment without severe treatment‐related adverse effects. After engraftment of second HSCT, their splenomegaly was rapidly regressed, and both patients showed no sign of relapse for over 4 years. These observations demonstrate that HSCT from an HLA‐mismatched parent could be a feasible salvage treatment for primary engraftment failure in JMML patients.
Intelligence as a predictor of social mobility in Estonia
Authors: Anni Kätlin , Mõttus René 
Published: February 2019

The purpose of this study was to explore how individual and environmental predictors of intergenerational social mobility intersect in rarely studied post‐communist developing society of Estonia. We used a contemporary cross‐sectional dataset (n = 759) to assess the influence of cognitive ability and parental socioeconomic status to the participants’ educational and occupational attainment. Our results indicated that cognitive ability and one's own educational level mediated the association of parental socioeconomic status with one's own occupational success. Analysis of separate components of cognitive ability indicated that verbal ability had the highest influence on occupational status. We concluded that both individual‐level and environmental factors have a predictive effect on educational and occupational attainment.
Analysis of the blood donor behaviours: 9 years’ experience of Turkish Red Crescent in blood donor management practice
Authors: Ulger Dervis , Çelik İbrahim , Ulukanligil Mustafa , Hafizoglu Nurettin , Kinik Kerem , Yilmaz Fatma Meric 
Published: February 2019

ObjectivesThe Turkish Red Crescent has been the responsible body and created the national blood banking system in Turkey. In this study, we aimed to share the 9 years’ experience of the Turkish Red Crescent in blood donor management practice for a better understanding of donors’ motivations which might improve the ability of a blood bank to provide a more robust blood supply.Materials and MethodsBlood Banking Information Management System of Turkish Red Crescent allows to follow the donor behaviours throughout in the country. In this study, donors who are registered in the Turkish Red Crescent system were evaluated according to the DOMAINE (Donor Management IN Europe) definitions in terms of donor populations and donor behaviours. The improvement of blood donor numbers and the change of behaviours with time is analysed and discussed.ResultsWhile 24% of the total blood donors in 2009 were regular donors, the number of regular donors increased over the years to 41% in 2017 with the help of donor acquisition programmes. However, it is observed that 1 106 351 of the donors registered in the Turkish Red Crescent system (13%) are silent donors and 4 269 909 persons (49·7%) are inactive donors (As of 10 March 2018).ConclusionClassification and analysis of blood donors in the system helps to create incentives to increase the number of regular blood donors. Good donor management can be achieved by classifying donors using DOMAINE definitions and developing new strategies with appropriate donor management programmes.
Polar gap after cementless total hip replacement in dogs
Authors: Liska William D. , Israel Sarah K. , Poteet Brian A. 
Published: February 2019

AbstractObjectiveTo determine the incidence and outcomes of total hip replacements with polar gaps in dogs.Study designRetrospective case series.AnimalsOne hundred fifty‐five client‐owned dogs.MethodsSerial postoperative and follow‐up digital orthogonal radiographs of 200 hips in 155 dogs that underwent consecutive index total hip replacement (THR) were examined for the presence of polar gaps. Length and depth of polar gaps were measured and monitored on serial radiographs.ResultsA polar gap was identified in at least 1 zone in 136 (68%) of the ventral‐dorsal (VD) radiographs and in 80 (40%) of the lateral radiographs obtained immediately after surgery. Gaps were more common in zones 2 and 5, measuring ≤1 mm in depth in 94 hips on the VD and in 78 hips on the lateral views. No gaps were radiographically visible after 5 weeks postsurgery. No continuous interface radiolucency or lysis was detected, and none of the THR required revision because of loosening.ConclusionPolar gaps were identified on the majority of radiographs immediately after THR in our clinical setting and all resolved without complications.Clinical significanceRecognition and incidence of postoperative polar gaps after THR may vary among surgeons. Gaps do not warrant clinical intervention.