bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Transdentinal photobiostimulation of stem cells from human exfoliated primary teeth
Authors: Turrioni A. P. , Basso F. G. , Montoro L. A. , Almeida L. F. D. , de Souza Costa C. A. , Hebling J. 
Published: May 2016

AbstractAimTo evaluate the effects of infrared light‐emitting diode (LED) irradiation on stem cells from human exfoliated deciduous teeth (SHEDs).MethodologyExfoliated primary teeth were obtained (n = 3), and SHEDs obtained from the teeth were seeded on the pulpal surface of 0.2‐mm‐thick dentine discs produced from permanent molars. The cells were incubated for 24 h by placing the discs in plain Dulbecco's modified Eagle's medium (DMEM). The DMEM was then replaced with new culture medium formulated for odontoblast differentiation. After 12 h in the second medium, SHEDs were irradiated through the dentine discs using an infrared LED (850 nm) with a power density of 80 mW cm−2. Energy doses (EDs) delivered to the occlusal surface of the dentine discs were 0 (control), 2 and 4 J cm−2 (n = 6). Subsequent tests were performed 72 h after irradiation. These tests included cell viability (MTT), alkaline phosphatase activity (ALP), total protein production (TP), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), as well as gene expression for ALP, Col I, DSPP and DMP‐1. Data were analysed using Kruskal–Wallis and Mann–Whitney t‐tests (α = 0.05).ResultsBoth EDs (2 and 4 J cm−2) significantly increased cell viability and ALP activity. For TP, ALP and Col I gene expression, only the 4 J cm−2 group had significantly higher values compared to the control group. Cell morphology was not affected by irradiation.ConclusionInfrared LED irradiation was capable of biostimulating SHEDs through a 0.2 mm thickness of dentine, especially at the 4 J cm−2 level.
An assessment of racial differences in the upper limits of normal ALT levels in children and the effect of obesity on elevated values
Authors: Kliethermes S. , Ma M. , Purtell C. , Balasubramanian N. , Gonzalez B. , Layden T. J. , Cotler S. J. 
Published: May 2016

SummaryObjectivesChildhood obesity is a risk factor for non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease and poses important public health issues for children. Racial differences in alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels among children have not been described. This study aimed to identify racial differences in upper limit normal (ULN) ALT levels and evaluate the effect of obesity on elevated levels in children without other metabolic risk factors.MethodsNational Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys and clinical data from the Loyola University Health System were used to determine ULN ALT by race and gender. Quantile regression was used to evaluate the impact of obesity on elevated ALT and to identify potential risk factors for ALT above the ULN.ResultsUpper limit normal (ULN) ALT was approximately 28.0 and 21.0–24.0 U/L for boys and girls, respectively. No significant difference in ULN ALT across race was observed. Obesity was significantly associated with elevated ALT; obese children with elevated ALT had values 10 U/L higher than normal‐weight children.ConclusionsRacial differences in ALT levels among adults are not evident in children. Obesity, in the absence of metabolic risk factors and other causes of liver disease, is associated with elevated ALT, providing evidence against the concept of healthy obesity in children.
Elevated interleukin‐27 levels in human neonatal macrophages regulate indoleamine dioxygenase in a STAT‐1 and STAT‐3‐dependent manner
Authors: Jung Joo‐Yong , Gleave Parson Madeline , Kraft Jennifer D. , Lyda Logan , Kobe Brianna , Davis Celestia , Robinson Jembber , Peña Maria Marjorette O. , Robinson Cory M. 
Published: May 2016

SummaryMicrobial infections are a major cause of infant mortality as a result of limitations in immune defences. Interleukin‐27 (IL‐27) is a heterodimeric cytokine produced primarily by leucocytes and is immunosuppressive toward lymphocytes and leucocytes. Our laboratory demonstrated that human neonatal macrophages express IL‐27 more abundantly than adult macrophages. Similarly in mice, IL‐27 expression is elevated early in life and maintained through infancy. To determine IL‐27‐regulated mechanisms that may limit immunity, we evaluated the expression of a number of genes in response to this cytokine in primary human neonatal macrophages. Indoleamine 2,3‐dioxygenase (IDO) gene expression was increased dose‐responsively by IL‐27. We have previously demonstrated inhibition of T‐cell proliferation and cytokine production by neonatal macrophage‐generated IL‐27, and IDO is often implicated in this negative regulation. An increase in IDO protein was demonstrated by immunofluorescence microscopy and was consistent with increased enzyme activity following treatment with IL‐27. Inclusion of a soluble receptor to neutralize endogenous IL‐27, decreased IDO expression and activity compared with untreated macrophages. In response to IL‐27, neonatal macrophages phosphorylate signal transdcuer and activator of transcription 1 (STAT‐1) and STAT‐3. Both transcription factors are recruited to the IDO regulatory region. STAT‐3 dominates during steady‐state regulation by lower levels of endogenous IL‐27 production. A shift to enhanced STAT‐1 recruitment occurs during increased levels of exogenously supplied IL‐27. These data suggest an interesting interplay of STAT‐1 and STAT‐3 to regulate IDO activity and immunosuppression in response to different levels of IL‐27 in the microenvironment of the immune response that may further our understanding of this interesting cytokine.
Sentinel surveillance for influenza among severe acute respiratory infection and acute febrile illness inpatients at three hospitals in Ghana
Authors: Jones Alexander H. , Ampofo William , Akuffo Richard , Doman Brooke , Duplessis Christopher , Amankwa Joseph A. , Sarpong Charity , Sagoe Ken , Agbenohevi Prince , Puplampu Naiki , Armah George , Koram Kwadwo A. , Nyarko Edward O. , Bel‐Nono Samuel , Dueger Erica L. 
Published: May 2016

BackgroundInfluenza epidemiology in Africa is generally not well understood. Using syndrome definitions to screen patients for laboratory confirmation of infection is an established means to effectively conduct influenza surveillance.MethodsTo compare influenza‐related epidemiologic data, from October 2010 through March 2013, we enrolled hospitalized severe acute respiratory infection (SARI; fever with respiratory symptoms) and acute febrile illness (AFI; fever without respiratory or other localizing symptoms) patients from three referral hospitals in Ghana. Demographic and epidemiologic data were obtained from enrolled patients after which nasopharyngeal and oropharyngeal swabs were collected, and processed by molecular methods for the presence of influenza viruses.ResultsOf 730 SARI patients, 59 (8%) were influenza positive; of 543 AFI patients, 34 (6%) were positive for influenza. Both SARI and AFI surveillance yielded influenza A(H3N2) (3% versus 1%), A(H1N1)pdm09 (2% versus 1%), and influenza B (3% versus 4%) in similar proportions. Data from both syndromes show year‐round influenza transmission but with increased caseloads associated with the rainy seasons.ConclusionsAs an appreciable percentage of influenza cases (37%) presented without defined respiratory symptoms, and thus met the AFI but not the SARI definition, it is important to consider broader screening criteria (i.e., AFI) to identify all laboratory‐confirmed influenza. The identified influenza transmission seasonality has important implications for the timing of related public health interventions.
The influence of intensive lifestyle intervention on patients with isolated impaired fasting glucose: a meta‐analysis
Authors: Yang Xiu‐Juan , Zou Shu‐Fang , Xu Yong , Li Yi , Yang Shan‐Shan 
Published: May 2016

AbstractAimTo evaluate the effect of intensive lifestyle intervention on patients with isolated impaired fasting glucose.BackgroundThe application of lifestyle intervention to clinical nursing can help improve outcomes of patients with impaired fasting glucose.DesignWe performed a meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials using methods outlined in the Cochrane Handbook.MethodsWe performed keyword searches of the literature databases up to September 2014 and performed manual searches of selected article reference lists. Data were extracted by the lead reviewer, cross‐checked by the second reviewer, entered into RevMan5·3, and pooled and analysed using the fixed effect inverse‐variance model or random effects model to determine the mean difference and calculate the weighted mean difference. The heterogeneity statistic (I2), overall effect (Z) and P‐value were calculated.ResultsA total of five studies were included in our analysis. Following the heterogeneity test statistic, overall effect Z score with P‐value was calculated. The targets of fasting plasma glucose, weight, body mass index, triglycerides, high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol and total cholesterol all showed significant differences between the intervention and control groups.ConclusionLifestyle intervention can improve glycaemic control in patients with isolated impaired fasting glucose. It also reduces blood‐lipid levels and promotes weight loss. Larger patient cohorts and adequate follow‐up should be included in future trials.
Quantitative systematic review of multi‐professional teamwork and leadership training to optimize patient outcomes in acute hospital settings
Authors: Husebø Sissel Eikeland , Akerjordet Kristin 
Published: May 2016

AbstractAimTo evaluate the impact of multi‐professional teamwork (MPTW) and leadership training interventions on patient outcomes in acute hospital settings.BackgroundAlthough investigations of teamwork and leadership training in acute hospital settings indicate that such programs can optimize patient outcomes, evidence‐based recommendations on the content, duration and frequency of training programs associated with clinical evidence are still absent.DesignQuantitative systematic review.Data SourcesA search was conducted for relevant papers published during the period from 2000‐February 2014.Review MethodsTwelve studies met the inclusion criteria and were appraised for quality and a risk‐of‐bias assessment was conducted. The review used a structured approach for literature search, data evaluation, analysis and presentation. A narrative summary was used to report results.ResultsTwo MPTW and leadership interventions in stroke units have the greatest impact on patient outcomes in acute hospital settings. The interventions’ impact on patient outcomes, explored in the ten remaining studies, is associated with great uncertainty due to several alternative explanations of the findings.ConclusionResearch designs that test such interventions must be improved before recommendations on the ultimate program can be made. This can be achieved by strengthening the design, methodology and descriptions of interventions and the use of more consistent patient outcomes. Building a safety culture adjacent to implementing teamwork and leadership training interventions is essential for improving patient outcomes.
Does resuscitation status affect decision making in a deteriorating patient? Results from a randomised vignette study
Authors: Moffat Suzanne , Skinner Jane , Fritz Zoë 
Published: May 2016

AbstractAims and objectivesThe aim of this paper is to determine the influence of do not attempt cardiopulmonary resuscitation (DNACPR) orders and the Universal Form of Treatment Options (‘UFTO’: an alternative approach that contextualizes the resuscitation decision within an overall treatment plan) on nurses' decision making about a deteriorating patient.MethodsAn online survey with a developing case scenario across three timeframes was used on 231 nurses from 10 National Health Service Trusts. Nurses were randomised into three groups: DNACPR, the UFTO and no‐form. Statements were pooled into four subcategories: Increasing Monitoring, Escalating Concern, Initiating Treatments and Comfort Measures.ResultsReported decisions were different across the three groups. Nurses in the DNACPR group agreed or strongly agreed to initiate fewer intense nursing interventions than the UFTO and no‐form groups (P < 0.001) overall and across subcategories of Increase Monitoring, Escalate Concern and Initiate Treatments (all P < 0.001). There was no difference between the UFTO and no‐form groups overall (P = 0.795) or in the subcategories. No difference in Comfort Measures were observed (P = 0.201) between the three groups.ConclusionThe presence of a DNACPR order appears to influence nurse decision making in a deteriorating patient vignette. Differences were not observed in the UFTO and no‐form group. The UFTO may improve the way nurses modulate their behaviours towards critically ill patients with DNACPR status. More hospitals should consider adopting an approach where the resuscitation decisions are contextualised within overall goals of care.
Blood levels of vitamin D and health‐functional status in asymptomatic individuals: a cross sectional study
Authors: Golan‐Cohen Avivit , Merzon Eugene , Alhin Ouda , Kitai Eliezer , Fogelman Yacov 
Published: May 2016

AbstractBackgroundRecently issued guidelines do not recommend screening for vitamin D deficiency in asymptomatic adults. The large range of health effects that have been associated with vitamin D deficiency raises the possibility that vitamin D levels may be a marker of poor health status rather than a cause of it. We investigated an association between vitamin D level and health‐functional status.MethodsThis cross‐sectional study comprised 205 individuals who had taken a first plasma vitamin D test and were not symptomatic for vitamin D deficiency. During an interview, participants responded to questions regarding demographic information and their exposure to the sun, as well as a health‐functional status questionnaire – World Organization of Family Doctors/COOP charts. Correlations between study variables and vitamin D levels were calculated. A stepwise linear regression was performed to estimate variables that independently predict vitamin D levels.ResultsThe participants were 51 men and 154 women, mean age 41 years. Vitamin D level was positively correlated with weekend sun exposure and negatively correlated with body mass index (BMI). A reported positive change in health over the previous 2 weeks correlated with a higher vitamin D level. Individuals with higher vitamin D levels were more likely to report participation in physical activity and to report capability of performing daily activities.A total of 176 (86%) of the study population was deficient in vitamin D, according to a level <30 ng mL−1. Vitamin D deficiency was associated with older age, higher BMI, Arab compared with Jewish ethnicity (darker skin), and religious identification (more body covering). In the multivariate analysis older age, female gender, religious identification, Arab ethnicity, higher BMI, sunscreen use and low exposure to sun during the weekdays all associated with lower vitamin D levels.ConclusionNo parameter of functional health demonstrated capability of distinguishing vitamin D deficiency among healthy young to middle‐aged adults.
Conformity to the neighborhood modifies the association between recreational walking and social norms among middle‐aged Japanese people
Authors: Tanaka Chika , Naruse Takashi , Taguchi Atsuko , Nagata Satoko , Arimoto Azusa , Ohashi Yuki , Murashima Sachiyo 
Published: May 2016

AbstractAimRecreational walking benefits the health of the middle‐aged population. Social norms might generate an intention–behavior gap, the state of people forming adequate intentions but failing to translate these intentions into action. People living in a community where the neighbors conform to the average behaviors of those who live in the neighborhood might restrict behaviors that stray from the neighborhood's social norms. This cross‐sectional study was conducted in order to examine whether the degree of conformity to the neighbors modified the association between social norms and recreational walking among middle‐aged adults in Japan.MethodsUsing a questionnaire, data were collected from 730 participants in Japan. Among those who intended to recreationally walk, a multiple logistic regression was carried out separately for the participants with a high or low degree of conformity to the neighborhood social norms.ResultsOf the total number of respondents, 511 (70%) reported recreational walking intentions. The descriptive norm was significantly associated with recreational walking only among the participants with a high degree of conformity. In contrast, there was no such association among the participants with a low degree of conformity.ConclusionThe results confirmed that people who live in a community where people tend to conform translated walking intentions into action when they saw their neighbors walk recreationally. Public health nurses should evaluate the degree of conformity in neighborhoods and neighbors’ descriptive norms when promoting walking.
Las fronteras arbitrarias y difusas entre lo urbano‐moderno y lo rural‐tradicional en los Andes
Authors: Garcés Eduardo Kingman , Solo de Zaldívar Víctor Bretón 
Published: May 2016

ResumenEl objetivo de este artículo es mostrar el carácter arbitrario y difuso de las fronteras entre lo rural (hasta hace poco identificado con lo “tradicional,” sobre todo en ámbitos indígenas) y lo urbano (asimilado a la “modernidad”). Hasta hace apenas dos décadas, existían serias dificultades para entender el carácter andino de ciudades como Quito o La Paz. Lo andino remitía a un ámbito eminentemente rural, aparentemente en proceso de desaparición, cuyos parámetros de funcionamiento eran percibidos como radicalmente opuestos al modo de vida urbana; mientras, la presencia indígena en las urbes era mantenida invisible. Argumentamos que la vida en las comunidades campesinas andinas se ha transformado en las últimas décadas hasta el punto de no ser disociable hoy de sus estrechos vínculos con la vida urbana. De modo paralelo, lo urbano incluye en los Andes una variedad muy amplia de formas de vida que, en muchos sentidos, constituyen verdaderas “modernidades paralelas" o "alternativas.”
Application of polystyrene disk substrates in cellular cultivation methods: generalized specimen preparation protocol for scanning electron microscopy
Authors: DELEON H. 
Published: May 2016

SummarySample preparation for scanning electron microscopy (SEM) may vary by cellular type, composition and method of cultivation. It has been proposed here that a generalized method of sample preparation may be applied for the visualization of bacteria, fungi, and human cellular tissue without modification of protocol between cell types. The following protocol was developed to incorporate polystyrene disk substrates in the simplification of sample preparation for SEM and reduce the possibility of processing artefacts. The proposed method of preparation may be applied to samples grown in either liquid or solid cultural medium regardless of cell type. With the proposed protocol, centrifugation, isolation and critical point drying are not required, therefore increasing specimen integrity. The incorporation of polystyrene disks showed positive cellular adhesion and applications in SEM for bacterial, fungal and human neuronal tissue. In addition, the simplicity of the proposed protocol is highly adaptable and may be further incorporated to visually analyse the effects of antifungals, antibiotics and disease pathogenesis through pathogen–host interactions. The proposed method of specimen preparation was incorporated in either liquid or solid state growth mediums during the cultivation of the selected cellular samples and revealed great promise in the preservation and visualization under the scanning electron microscope.
Sexual activity and functioning in women treated for gynaecological cancers
Authors: Sekse Ragnhild Johanne Tveit , Hufthammer Karl Ove , Vika Margrethe Elin 
Published: May 2016

Aims and objectivesA description and comparison of sexual activity and function in relation to various gynaecological cancer diagnoses, treatment modalities, age groups, psychological distress and health‐related quality of life.BackgroundVarious forms of gynaecological cancer have the potential to negatively influence sexual functioning, but there are few studies that describe and compare sexual activity and functioning according to diagnosis.DesignA descriptive cross‐sectional study.MethodsThe study includes 129 women from an intervention study. The questionnaires addressed sexuality, psychological distress, health‐related quality of life and demographics. Disease and treatment characteristics were extracted from medical records.ResultsClose to two‐thirds of the women were sexually active. However, 54% of the sexually active women reported that they were not satisfied or little satisfied with their sexual activity. About half of the women reported dryness in the vagina, and 41% reported pain and discomfort during penetration. There were no significant differences concerning pleasure and discomfort related to treatment modality, diagnoses or FIGO stage.ConclusionHealth personnel should make a priority of sexuality throughout a patient's cancer treatment and in the follow‐up, as sexuality is a vital part of a good life.Relevance to clinical practiceSince the patients experience relatively low satisfaction with their sexual activity and many report pain during penetration, health personnel need to be sensitive to the woman, her questions, and her needs. Of importance are also the personnel's ability to communicate and their expertise in diagnosing and treating difficulties relating to sexuality.
Effectiveness of therapeutic conversation intervention among caregivers of people with eating disorders: quasi‐experimental design
Authors: Gisladottir Margret , Treasure Janet , Svavarsdottir Erla Kolbrun 
Published: May 2016

Aims and objectivesThe aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of therapeutic conversation intervention in group and caregiver sessions on the supporting role of caregivers.BackgroundCaregivers of people with eating disorders are known to suffer major difficulties and are in great need of support. Unhelpful parental support strategies can delay the recovery of an individual with an eating disorder. Skill training interventions can equip parents with skills, guidance and techniques by helping them to be a support person and making them one of the most important links in the treatment process.DesignThe therapeutic conversation intervention consisted of five group and caregiver sessions and three booster sessions. The Calgary Family Assessment and Calgary Family Intervention Models, the Illness Beliefs Model and the New Maudsley Method were used as theoretical frameworks. The content of the intervention consisted of work on difficult behaviours, feelings and helpful strategies. The participants (n = 58) included primary and secondary caregivers of 12‐ to 24‐year‐old patients with eating disorders. Eight caregivers dropped out of treatment.MethodsThis study had a quasi‐experimental design with one pre‐ and two post‐test measures.ResultsBetween 90–96% of caregivers rated the therapeutic conversation intervention as supportive. Furthermore, the study revealed significant differences in caregiver emotional and cognitive support, illness beliefs, disruptive behaviour and quality of life, negative aspects of care giving demands and caregiver and patient behavioural difficulties after the intervention and/or at follow‐up.ConclusionsTherapeutic conversation intervention with caregivers in group and private sessions proved to be beneficial.Relevance to clinical practiceThis outcome provides information for healthcare professionals on how they can help primary caregivers in their supporting role, which can, in turn, improve services in healthcare centres and psychiatric hospitals.