bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Prolonged maternal separation attenuates BDNF‐ERK signaling correlated with spine formation in the hippocampus during early brain development
Authors: Ohta Ken‐ichi , Suzuki Shingo , Warita Katsuhiko , Kaji Tomohiro , Kusaka Takashi , Miki Takanori 
Published: February 2017

AbstractMaternal separation (MS) is known to affect hippocampal function such as learning and memory, yet the molecular mechanism remains unknown. We hypothesized that these impairments are attributed to abnormities of neural circuit formation by MS, and focused on brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) as key factor because BDNF signaling has an essential role in synapse formation during early brain development. Using rat offspring exposed to MS for 6 h/day during postnatal days (PD) 2–20, we estimated BDNF signaling in the hippocampus during brain development. Our results show that MS attenuated BDNF expression and activation of extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (ERK) around PD 7. Moreover, plasticity‐related immediate early genes, which are transcriptionally regulated by BDNF‐ERK signaling, were also reduced by MS around PD 7. Interestingly, detailed analysis revealed that MS particularly reduced expression of BDNF gene and immediate early genes in the cornu ammonis 1 (CA1) of hippocampus at PD 7. Considering that BDNF‐ERK signaling is involved in spine formation, we next evaluated spine formation in the hippocampus during the weaning period. Our results show that MS particularly reduced mature spine density in proximal apical dendrites of CA1 pyramidal neurons at PD 21. These results suggest that MS could attenuate BDNF‐ERK signaling during primary synaptogenesis with a region‐specific manner, which is likely to lead to decreased spine formation and maturation observed in the hippocampal CA1 region. It is speculated that this incomplete spine formation during early brain development has an influence on learning capabilities throughout adulthood.image
Diabetes mellitus may affect short‐term outcome of Guillain‐Barré syndrome
Authors: Peric Stojan , Bozovic Ivo , Bjelica Bogdan , Berisavac Ivana , Stojiljkovic Olivera , Basta Ivana , Beslac‐Bumbasirevic Ljiljana , Rakocevic‐Stojanovic Vidosava , Lavrnic Dragana , Stevic Zorica 
Published: February 2017

AbstractWe sought to determine influence of diabetes mellitus on Guillain‐Barré syndrome (GBS) course and short‐term prognosis. Among the 257 GBS patients included in this retrospective study, diabetes mellitus was present in 17%. The degree of disability at admission and on discharge was assessed according to the GBS Disability Scale (mild disability = 0–3, severe disability = 4–6). Even after correction for age, diabetes mellitus was significantly associated with more severe disability at nadir (odds ratio, OR = 3.4, p < 0.05) and on discharge (OR = 2.0, p < 0.05). Linear regression analysis with multiple factors included showed that age and presence of diabetes were significant predictors of severe disability at nadir (adjusted R2 = 0.21, p < 0.05), and on discharge (adjusted R2 = 0.19, p < 0.05). The presence of diabetes mellitus affects short‐term prognosis of GBS, independent of age.
Intrauterine contraception insertion pain: nursing interventions to improve patient experience
Authors: McCarthy Carmel 
Published: February 2017

Aims and objectivesTo examine factors which contribute to the individual's experience of pain in relation to intrauterine contraception insertion and determine evidence‐based nursing strategies to best assess and manage this pain.BackgroundNurses are increasingly involved in consultations regarding intrauterine contraception. However, concerns regarding painful or difficult insertion may inhibit uptake and discourage nurses from promoting or inserting intrauterine contraception.DesignIntegrative review.MethodsDatabase searches of CINAHL, PubMed, Wiley Online Library and the Cochrane Collaboration for relevant literature. Eight papers met the inclusion criteria and were analysed using an integrative review process.ResultsPhysical causes and pharmacological interventions for insertion pain have been thoroughly investigated. Absence of previous vaginal delivery and anxiety may increase the likelihood of procedural pain. The literature fails to conclusively determine any universally effective prophylactic analgesia. Cervical anaesthesia may be beneficial in some cases and oral analgesia may relieve postprocedural pain. Distraction in the form of conversation, music or television can be effective in reducing anxiety.ConclusionsA combination of physical, psychological and environmental factors contribute to the individual's pain experience. Nurses have the potential to make a significant impact on pain outcomes by demonstrating clinical expertise and creating a trustful environment. Giving reliable information, acknowledging the significance of anxiety and providing reassurance and distraction are effective pain reducing strategies. Research into nonpharmacological approaches is warranted, especially those which reduce anxiety.Relevance to clinical practiceIncreasing uptake of long‐acting reversible contraception is a public health goal. Providing effective pain management strategies to improve patient experience may encourage more nurses to recommend, or enhance their scope of practice to include, intrauterine contraception insertion.
Predictors of occupational burnout among nurses: a dominance analysis of job stressors
Authors: Sun Ji‐Wei , Bai Hua‐Yu , Li Jia‐Huan , Lin Ping‐Zhen , Zhang Hui‐Hui , Cao Feng‐Lin 
Published: February 2017

Aims and objectivesTo quantitatively compare dimensions of job stressors’ effects on nurses’ burnout.BackgroundNurses, a key group of health service providers, often experience stressors at work. Extensive research has examined the relationship between job stressors and burnout; however, less has specifically compared the effects of job stressor domains on nurses’ burnout.DesignA quantitative cross‐sectional survey examined three general hospitals in Jinan, China.MethodParticipants were 602 nurses. We compared five potential stressors’ ability to predict nurses’ burnout using dominance analysis and assuming that each stressor was intercorrelated.ResultsStrong positive correlations were found between all five job stressors and burnout. Interpersonal relationships and management issues most strongly predicted participants’ burnout (11·3% of average variance).ConclusionJob stressors, and particularly interpersonal relationships and management issues, significantly predict nurses’ job burnout.Relevance to clinical practiceUnderstanding the relative effect of job stressors may help identify fruitful areas for intervention and improve nurse recruitment and retention.
Factors relating to professional self‐concept among nurse managers
Authors: Kantek Filiz , Şimşek Belkıs 
Published: February 2017

Aims and objectivesTo investigate the self‐concept in nurse managers in Turkey and the effects of certain variables on professional self‐concept.BackgroundProfessional self‐concept plays a significant role in improving certain professional behaviours. Nursing managers have the potential to influence other members of the profession with their attitudes and behaviours.DesignThe study was designed as a cross‐sectional descriptive study.MethodsThis study was conducted with 159 nurse managers in nine different hospitals. The study data were collected with a Personal Information Form and Professional Self‐concept Nursing Inventory, and the data analysis was accomplished with descriptive statistics, Cronbach's alpha coefficients and Chi‐squared Automatic Interaction Detector analyses.ResultsThe professional self‐concept score of nurse managers was 3·33 (SD = 0·308). Professional competence subdimension had the highest scores, while professional satisfaction subdimension had the lowest. The types of hospital were found to be influential on professional self‐concept.ConclusionThe types of hospital were reported to influence the professional self‐concept of nurses.Relevance to clinical practiceNursing managers are visionaries who can potentially influence nursing practices and decisions. Nursing leaders must monitor and administer strategies to improve their professional self‐concept.
Evaluating a dignity care intervention for palliative care in the community setting: community nurses’ perspectives
Authors: McIlfatrick Sonja , Connolly Michael , Collins Rita , Murphy Tara , Johnston Bridget , Larkin Philip 
Published: February 2017

Aims and ObjectivesTo evaluate a dignity care intervention provided by community nurses seeking to address dignity concerns for people with advanced and life‐limiting conditions.BackgroundEvidence would suggest that dying people fear a loss of dignity and a central focus of palliative care is to assist people to die with dignity. Whilst community nurses have a key role to play in the delivery of palliative care, specific interventions for dignity are lacking.DesignA mixed methods study using online survey and focus group interviews and thematic analysis to examine data.MethodsTwenty four community nurses implemented the dignity care intervention for people with advanced and life‐limiting conditions were recruited from four pilot sites across Ireland. Four focus group interviews and on line survey were conducted between March–June 2015.ResultsThe community nurses found the dignity care intervention useful. It helped the nurses to provide holistic end‐of‐life care and assisted in the overall assessment of palliative care patients, identifying areas that might not otherwise have been noted. Whilst it was a useful tool for communication, they noted that it stimulated some emotionally sensitive conversations for which they felt unprepared.ConclusionsImplementing the dignity care intervention in practice was challenging. However, the dignity care intervention facilitated holistic assessment and identified patient dignity‐related concerns that may not have been otherwise identified. Further support is required to overcome barriers and enable dignity‐conserving care.Relevance to clinical practiceEnsuring dignity is a key aspect of palliative and end‐of‐life care; however, community nurses may not feel equipped to address this aspect of care. Implementing a dignity care intervention can assist in identifying patient dignity‐related concerns and provision of holistic care. Community nurses need more training to assist in difficult conversations relating to dignity and end‐of‐life care.
Barriers and enablers to adherence to anticoagulation in heart failure with atrial fibrillation: patient and provider perspectives
Authors: Ferguson Caleb , Inglis Sally C. , Newton Phillip J. , Middleton Sandy , Macdonald Peter S. , Davidson Patricia M. 
Published: February 2017

Aims & ObjectivesThe purpose of this study was to elucidate the barriers and enablers to adherence to anticoagulation in individuals with chronic heart failure (CHF) with concomitant atrial fibrillation (AF) from the perspective of patients and providers.BackgroundCHF and AF commonly coexist and are associated with increased stroke risk and mortality. Oral anticoagulation significantly reduces stroke risk and improves outcomes. Yet, in approximately 30% of cases, anticoagulation is not commenced for a variety of reasons.DesignQualitative study using narrative inquiry.MethodsData from face‐to‐face individual interviews with patients and information retrieved from healthcare file note review documented the clinician perspective. This study is a synthesis of the two data sources, obtained during patient clinical assessments as part of the Atrial Fibrillation And Stroke Thromboprophylaxis in hEart failuRe (AFASTER) Study.ResultsPatient choice and preference were important factors in anticoagulation decisions, including treatment burden, unfavourable or intolerable side effects and patient refusal. Financial barriers included cost of travel, medication cost and reimbursement. Psychological factors included psychiatric illness, cognitive impairment and depression. Social barriers included homelessness and the absence of a caregiver or lack of caregiver assistance. Clinician reticence included fear of falls, frailty, age, fear of bleeding and the challenges of multimorbidity. Facilitators to successful prescription and adherence were caregiver support, reminders and routine, self‐testing and the use of technology.ConclusionsMany barriers remain to high‐risk individuals being prescribed anticoagulation for stroke prevention. There are a number of enabling factors that facilitate prescription and optimise treatment adherence. Nurses should challenge these treatment barriers and seek enabling factors to optimise therapy.Relevance to clinical practiceNurses can help patients and caregivers to understand complex anticoagulant risk‐benefit information, and act as a patient advocate when making complex stroke prevention decisions.
Surface Coating of Gypsum‐Based Molds for Maxillofacial Prosthetic Silicone Elastomeric Material: Evaluating Different Microbial Adhesion
Authors: Khalaf Salah , Ariffin Zaihan , Husein Adam , Reza Fazal 
Published: February 2017

AbstractPurposeTo compare the adhesion of three microorganisms on modified and unmodified silicone elastomer surfaces with different surface roughnesses and porosities.Materials and MethodsCandida albicans, Streptococcus mutans, and Staphylococcus aureus were incubated with modified and unmodified silicone groups (N = 35) for 30 days at 37°C. The counts of viable microorganisms in the accumulating biofilm layer were determined and converted to cfu/cm2 unit surface area. A scanning electron microscope (SEM) was used to evaluate the microbial adhesion. Statistical analysis was performed using t‐test, one‐way ANOVA, and post hoc tests as indicated.ResultsSignificant differences in microbial adhesion were observed between modified and unmodified silicone elastomers after the cells were incubated for 30 days (p < 0.001). SEM showed evident differences in microbial adhesion on modified silicone elastomer compared with unmodified silicone elastomer.ConclusionsSurface modification of silicone elastomer yielding a smoother and less porous surface showed lower adhesion of different microorganisms than observed on unmodified surfaces.
Bell's palsy in children: Current treatment patterns in Australia and New Zealand. A PREDICT study
Authors: Babl Franz E , Gardiner Kaya K , Kochar Amit , Wilson Catherine L , George Shane A , Zhang Michael , Furyk Jeremy , Thosar Deepali , Cheek John A , Krieser David , Rao Arjun S , Borland Meredith L , Cheng Nicholas , Phillips Natalie T , Sinn Kam K , Neutze Jocelyn M , Dalziel Stuart R ,   on behalf of PREDICT (Paediatric Research In Emergency Departments International Collaborative)
Published: February 2017

AimThe aetiology and clinical course of Bell's palsy may be different in paediatric and adult patients. There is no randomised placebo controlled trial (RCT) to show effectiveness of prednisolone for Bell's palsy in children. The aim of the study was to assess current practice in paediatric Bell's palsy in Australia and New Zealand Emergency Departments (ED) and determine the feasibility of conducting a multicentre RCT within the Paediatric Research in Emergency Departments International Collaborative (PREDICT).MethodsA retrospective analysis of ED medical records of children less than 18 years diagnosed with Bell's palsy between 1 January, 2012 and 31 December, 2013 was performed. Potential participants were identified from ED information systems using Bell's palsy related search terms. Repeat presentations during the same illness were excluded but relapses were not. Data on presentation, diagnosis and management were entered into an online data base (REDCap).ResultsThree hundred and twenty‐three presentations were included from 14 PREDICT sites. Mean age at presentation was 9.0 (SD 5.0) years with 184 (57.0%) females. Most (238, 73.7%) presented to ED within 72 h of symptoms, 168 (52.0%) had seen a doctor prior. In ED, 218 (67.5%) were treated with steroids. Prednisolone was usually prescribed for 9 days at around 1 mg/kg/day, with tapering in 35.7%.ConclusionTreatment of Bell's palsy in children presenting to Australasian EDs is varied. Prednisolone is commonly used in Australasian EDs, despite lack of high‐level paediatric evidence. The study findings confirm the feasibility of an RCT of prednisolone for Bell's palsy in children.
Melatonin promotes sorafenib‐induced apoptosis through synergistic activation of JNK/c‐jun pathway in human hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Lin Shibo , Hoffmann Katrin , Gao Chao , Petrulionis Marius , Herr Ingrid , Schemmer Peter 
Published: February 2017

AbstractMelatonin has been shown to exert anticancer activity on hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) through its antiproliferative and pro‐apoptotic effect in both experimental and clinical studies, and sorafenib is the only approved drug for the systemic treatment of HCC. Thus, this study was designed to investigate the combined effect of melatonin and sorafenib on proliferation, apoptosis, and its possible mechanism in human HCC. Here, we found that both melatonin and sorafenib resulted in a dose‐dependent growth inhibition of HuH‐7 cells after 48 hours treatment, and the combination of them enhanced the growth inhibition in a synergistic manner. Colony formation assay indicated that co‐treatment of HuH‐7 cells with melatonin and sorafenib significantly decreased the clonogenicity compared to the treatment with single agent. Furthermore, FACS and TUNEL assay confirmed that melatonin synergistically augmented the sorafenib‐induced apoptosis after 48 hours incubation, which was in accordance with the activation of caspase‐3 and the JNK/c‐jun pathway. Inhibition of JNK/c‐jun pathway with its inhibitor SP600125 reversed the phosphorylation of c‐jun and the activation of caspase‐3 induced by co‐treatment of HuH‐7 cells with melatonin and sorafenib in a dose‐dependent manner. Furthermore, SP600125 exhibited protective effect against apoptosis induced by the combination of melatonin and sorafenib. This study demonstrates that melatonin in combination with sorafenib synergistically inhibits proliferation and induces apoptosis in human HCC cells; therefore, supplementation of sorafenib with melatonin may serve as a potential therapeutic choice for advanced HCC.
The ‘English’ Knight: Creating Medieval Transnationalism in Sir Beves of Hamtoun
Authors: Stoyanoff Jeffery G. 
Published: February 2017

AbstractThe Middle English romance Sir Beves of Hamtoun attempts to portray the heroic deeds and feats of its protagonist, Beves, as signifiers of his ‘English’ identity. In order to do so, the narratorial frame of the poem situates Englishness as a characteristic of birth rather than one of action, yet it is clear within the poem that actions are what define a knight. Beves's actions, then, run counter to the implicit claim of the frame. Beves of Hamtoun presents the potential for medieval transnationalism despite its attempts to assert a definitive Englishness. Beves enacts a transnational identity through his interactions with Saracen culture and his eventual marriage to the daughter of the Saracen King Ermin, which leads to a union of English Christian and Saracen and then, eventually, to two sons who are lineally English and yet culturally Saracen. By its end, the narrative demonstrates that identity cannot be determined by birth, nor can it be contained by political borders. Rather, Beves and his heirs are examples of a medieval transnationalism that exists before the modern conception of nation and political identity.
Daclatasvir plus sofosbuvir, with or without ribavirin, for hepatitis C virus genotype 3 in a French early access programme
Authors: Hézode Christophe , Lebray Pascal , De Ledinghen Victor , Zoulim Fabien , Di Martino Vincent , Boyer Nathalie , Larrey Dominique , Botta‐Fridlund Danielle , Silvain Christine , Fontaine Hélène , D'Alteroche Louis , Leroy Vincent , Bourliere Marc , Hubert‐Fouchard Isabelle , Guyader Dominique , Rosa Isabelle , Nguyen‐Khac Eric , Fedchuk Larysa , Akremi Raoudha , Bennai Yacia , Filipovics Anne , Zhao Yue , Bronowicki Jean‐Pierre 
Published: February 2017

AbstractBackground & AimsOptimally effective treatment for hepatitis C virus genotype 3 (GT3) is urgently needed, particularly in advanced liver disease. Daclatasvir plus sofosbuvir was efficacious in phase 3 studies. Real‐world data for daclatasvir+sofosbuvir in advanced GT3 infection are presented from the French Temporary Authorisation for Use programme, which allowed patients in need without other treatment options access to daclatasvir ahead of its market authorization.MethodsPatients with F3/F4 fibrosis and/or extrahepatic hepatitis C virus manifestations, post‐liver transplant hepatitis C virus recurrence and/or indication for liver/kidney transplant, were treated with daclatasvir+sofosbuvir (60+400 mg daily) for a recommended duration of 24 weeks. Addition of ribavirin and/or shorter treatment was at physician's discretion. The primary efficacy analysis was sustained virological response at post‐treatment week 12 (SVR12; modified intention‐to‐treat). Safety was assessed by spontaneous adverse event reporting.ResultsThe efficacy population comprised 333 patients, mostly cirrhotic (77%, of whom 18% were decompensated) and treatment experienced (72%). After 24 weeks of daclatasvir+sofosbuvir, SVR12 was 89% (174/196) overall (95% CI 83.6‐92.5%), 98% (43/44) without cirrhosis (95% CI 88.2‐99.6%) and 86% (129/150) with any degree of cirrhosis (95% CI 79.5‐90.7%), without SVR12 increase in those who received additional ribavirin for 24 weeks (SVR12 82% [50/61; 95% CI 70.5‐89.6%]). Among 516 GT3‐infected patients with safety data, 5 discontinued for adverse events and 11 died.ConclusionsDaclatasvir+sofosbuvir achieved high SVR12 rates and was well tolerated in this large real‐world cohort of GT3‐infected patients with advanced liver disease, without benefit of ribavirin in those treated 24 weeks.
The efficacy and safety of dual oral therapy with daclatasvir and asunaprevir for genotype 1b in Japanese real‐life settings
Authors: Sezaki Hitomi , Suzuki Fumitaka , Hosaka Tetsuya , Akuta Norio , Fujiyama Shunichiro , Kawamura Yusuke , Kobayashi Masahiro , Suzuki Yoshiyuki , Saitoh Satoshi , Arase Yasuji , Ikeda Kenji , Kobayashi Mariko , Kumada Hiromitsu 
Published: February 2017

AbstractBackground & AimsIt is important to investigate the treatment outcomes in patients excluded from clinical trials (CTR). The aims of this study were to evaluate the efficacy and safety of a 24‐week daclatasvir (DCV) and asunaprevir (ASV) therapy for patients with chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV)‐1b infection.MethodsA total of 651 HCV‐1b patients started dual oral therapy with DCV and ASV for 24 weeks in Toranomon Hospital, Tokyo. Among them, 276 patients met phase III CTR inclusion criteria. The sustained virological response (SVR) rate after treatment and the adverse events during therapy were compared between CTR‐met (patients who met the inclusion criteria) and CTR‐unmet (patients who did not meet the inclusion criteria) groups.ResultsSVR12 was achieved in 87.0% (240/276) and 86.7% (325/375) in CTR‐met and CTR‐unmet patients respectively. SVR12 rate in simeprevir‐experienced patients was 52.9% (9/17). SVR12 rate in patients without resistance‐associated variant (RAV) of NS3 or NS5A loci was 93.7% (416/444). However, the SVR12 rates in patients with NS3‐D168, NS5A‐L31 and Y93 single RAV at baseline were 55.0% (11/20), 73.9% (17/23) and 65.6% (63/96) respectively. The safety profiles in both CTR‐met and CTR‐unmet patients were similar. The discontinuation rate as a result of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) elevation was only 2.9%. Seven (2.5%) patients in CTR‐met group and 20 (5.3%) in CTR‐unmet group discontinued therapy because of adverse events other than the ALT elevation.ConclusionsDual oral therapy with DCV and ASV in real‐life settings was well tolerated with a similar safety profile and achieved similar SVR12 rates as that of CTR.