bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The impact of different spirometric definitions on the prevalence of airway obstruction and their association with respiratory symptoms
Authors: Meteran Howraman , Miller Martin R. , Thomsen Simon Francis , Christensen Kaare , Sigsgaard Torben , Backer Vibeke 
Published: December 2017

The fixed ratio criterion of forced expiratory volume in 1 s/forced vital capacity <0.70 for diagnosing airway obstruction may overdiagnose the condition, particularly in the elderly, so the lower limit of normal (LLN) is recommended as the most appropriate criterion. Our aim was to compare LLNversusfixed ratio on the prevalence of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and examine the association between respiratory symptoms and airway obstruction defined by LLN and fixed ratio.12 449 twins aged 40–80 years participated in a nationwide survey using the Danish Twin Registry. They completed a questionnaire, underwent clinical examination and recorded prebronchodilator spirometry. Individuals with self-reported asthma were excluded. Clinical COPD was defined by respiratory symptoms together with airway obstruction.10 329 individuals were included, with a mean±sdage of 58.4±9.6 years and mean body mass index of 26.6±4.4 kg·m−2; 20% were current smokers, 37% former smokers and 43% never-smokers; and 48% were male. The prevalence of LLN airway obstruction (LLN-AO) and fixed ratio airway obstruction (FR-AO) was 5.6% and 18.0%, respectively (p<0.001). Overall, 26% reported current respiratory symptoms, but 50% of those with LLN-AO had respiratory symptoms compared to 39% with FR-AO, p<0.001. The prevalence of clinical LLN-COPD and fixed ratio COPD was 2.6% and 6.3%, respectively (p<0.001). Individuals with LLN-AO had a significantly higher probability of reporting respiratory symptoms compared with both healthy individuals and FR-AO when adjusted for sex, age and ever-smoking.The use of fixed ratio more than doubled the prevalence of clinical COPD compared with LLN, this being more pronounced with increased age, and identified subjects with a lower prevalence of respiratory symptoms than LLN-AO.
The effectiveness of a nurse-led illness perception intervention in COPD patients: a cluster randomised trial in primary care
Authors: Weldam Saskia W.M. , Schuurmans Marieke J. , Zanen Pieter , Heijmans Monique J.W.M. , Sachs Alfred P.E. , Lammers Jan-Willem J. 
Published: December 2017

The new COPD-GRIP (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease – Guidance, Research on Illness Perception) intervention translates evidence regarding illness perceptions and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) into a nurse intervention to guide COPD patients and to improve health outcomes. It describes how to assess and discuss illness perceptions in a structured way. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of the intervention in primary care.A cluster randomised controlled trial was conducted within 30 general practices and five home-care centres, including 204 COPD patients. 103 patients were randomly assigned to the intervention group and 101 patients to the usual-care group. To assess differences, repeated multilevel linear mixed modelling analyses were used. Primary outcome was change in health status on the Clinical COPD Questionnaire (CCQ) at 9 months. Secondary outcomes were HRQoL, daily activities, health education impact and changes in illness perceptions.There was no significant difference between the groups in the CCQ at 9 months. We found a significant increase in health-directed behaviour at 6 weeks (p=0.024) and in personal control (p=0.005) at 9 months in favour of the intervention group.The COPD-GRIP intervention, practised by nurses, did not improve health status in COPD patients in primary care. However, the intervention has benefits in improving the ability to control the disease and health-related behaviours in the short term. Therefore, taking illness perceptions into account when stimulating healthy behaviours in COPD patients should be considered. Further study on influencing the health status and HRQoL is needed.
MIPSS70: Mutation-Enhanced International Prognostic Score System for Transplantation-Age Patients With Primary Myelofibrosis
Authors: Guglielmelli Paola , Lasho Terra L. , Rotunno Giada , Mudireddy Mythri , Mannarelli Carmela , Nicolosi Maura , Pacilli Annalisa , Pardanani Animesh , Rumi Elisa , Rosti Vittorio , Hanson Curtis A. , Mannelli Francesco , Ketterling Rhett P. , Gangat Naseema , Rambaldi Alessandro , Passamonti Francesco , Barosi Giovanni , Barbui Tiziano , Cazzola Mario , Vannucchi Alessandro M. , Tefferi Ayalew 
Published: December 2017

Purpose To develop a prognostic system for transplantation-age patients with primary myelofibrosis (PMF) that integrates clinical, cytogenetic, and mutation data. Patients and Methods The study included 805 patients with PMF age ≤ 70 years recruited from multiple Italian centers and the Mayo Clinic (Rochester, MN), forming two independent learning and validation cohorts. A Cox multivariable model was used to select from among a list of 22 variables those that were predictive of overall survival (OS). Integrated clinical and genetic prognostic models with (MIPSS70-plus) or without (MIPSS70) cytogenetic information were developed. Results Multivariable analysis identified the following as significant risk factors for OS: hemoglobin < 100 g/L, leukocytes > 25 × 109/L, platelets < 100 × 109/L, circulating blasts ≥ 2%, bone marrow fibrosis grade ≥ 2, constitutional symptoms, absence of CALR type-1 mutation, presence of high–molecular risk mutation (ie, ASXL1, EZH2, SRSF2, IDH1/ 2), and presence of two or more high–molecular risk mutations. By assigning hazard ratio (HR)–weighted points to these variables, three risk categories were delineated for the MIPSS70 model; 5-year OS was 95% in low-risk, 70% in intermediate-risk, and 29% in high-risk categories, corresponding to median OS of 27.7 years (95% CI, 22 to 34 years), 7.1 years (95% CI, 6.2 to 8.1 years), and 2.3 years (95% CI, 1.9 to 2.7 years), respectively. In the MIPSS70-plus model, which included cytogenetic information, four risk categories were delineated, with 5-year OS of 91% in low-risk, 66% in intermediate-risk (HR, 3.2; 95% CI, 1.9 to 5.2), 42% in high-risk (HR, 6.4; 95% CI, 4.1 to 10.0), and 7% very high–risk categories (HR, 17.0; 95% CI, 9.8 to 29.2). Both models remained effective after inclusion of older patients in the analysis. Conclusion MIPSS70 and MIPSS70-plus provide complementary systems of risk stratification for transplantation-age patients with PMF and integrate prognostically relevant clinical, cytogenetic, and mutation data.
Blood vitronectin is a major activator of LIF and IL-6 in the brain through integrin–FAK and uPAR signaling
Authors: Keasey Matthew P. , Jia Cuihong , Pimentel Lylyan F. , Sante Richard R. , Lovins Chiharu , Hagg Theo 
Published: December 2017

ABSTRACT
We defined how blood-derived vitronectin (VTN) rapidly and potently activates leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) and pro-inflammatory interleukin 6 (IL-6) in vitro and after vascular injury in the brain. Treatment with VTN (but not fibrinogen, fibronectin, laminin-111 or collagen-I) substantially increased LIF and IL-6 within 4 h in C6-astroglioma cells, while VTN−/− mouse plasma was less effective than that from wild-type mice. LIF and IL-6 were induced by intracerebral injection of recombinant human (rh)VTN in mice, but induction seen upon intracerebral hemorrhage was less in VTN−/− mice than in wild-type littermates. In vitro, VTN effects were inhibited by RGD, αvβ3 and αvβ5 integrin-blocking peptides and antibodies. VTN activated focal adhesion kinase (FAK; also known as PTK2), whereas pharmacological- or siRNA-mediated inhibition of FAK, but not PYK2, reduced the expression of LIF and IL-6 in C6 and endothelial cells and after traumatic cell injury. Dominant-negative FAK (Y397F) reduced the amount of injury-induced LIF and IL-6. Pharmacological inhibition or knockdown of uPAR (also known as PLAUR), which binds VTN, also reduced cytokine expression, possibly through a common target of uPAR and integrins. We propose that VTN leakage into tissues promotes inflammation. Integrin–FAK signaling is therefore a novel IL-6 and LIF regulation mechanism relevant to the inflammation and stem cell fields.
The tail domain of the Aspergillus fumigatus class V myosin MyoE orchestrates septal localization and hyphal growth
Authors: Renshaw Hilary , Vargas-Muñiz José M. , Juvvadi Praveen R. , Richards Amber D. , Waitt Greg , Soderblom Erik J. , Moseley M. Arthur , Steinbach William J. 
Published: December 2017

ABSTRACT
Myosins are critical motor proteins that contribute to the secretory pathway, polarized growth, and cytokinesis. The globular tail domains of class V myosins have been shown to be important for cargo binding and actin cable organization. Additionally, phosphorylation plays a role in class V myosin cargo choice. Our previous studies on the class V myosin MyoE in the fungal pathogen Aspergillus fumigatus confirmed its requirement for normal morphology and virulence. However, the domains and molecular mechanisms governing the functions of MyoE remain unknown. Here, by analyzing tail mutants, we demonstrate that the tail is required for radial growth, conidiation, septation frequency and MyoE's location at the septum. Furthermore, MyoE is phosphorylated at multiple residues in vivo; however, alanine substitution mutants revealed that no single phosphorylated residue was critical. Importantly, in the absence of the phosphatase calcineurin, an additional residue was phosphorylated in its tail domain. Mutation of this tail residue led to mislocalization of MyoE from the septa. This work reveals the importance of the MyoE tail domain and its phosphorylation/dephosphorylation in the growth and morphology of A. fumigatus.
Rap1B promotes VEGF-induced endothelial permeability and is required for dynamic regulation of the endothelial barrier
Authors: Lakshmikanthan Sribalaji , Sobczak Magdalena , Li Calzi Sergio , Shaw Lynn , Grant Maria B. , Chrzanowska-Wodnicka Magdalena 
Published: December 2017

ABSTRACT
Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), a key angiogenic and permeability factor, plays an important role in new blood vessel formation. However, abnormal VEGF-induced VEGFR2 signaling leads to hyperpermeability. We have shown previously that Rap1, best known for promoting cell adhesion and vessel stability, is a critical regulator of VEGFR2-mediated angiogenic and shear-stress EC responses. To determine the role of Rap1 role in endothelial barrier dynamics, we examined vascular permeability in EC-specific Rap1A- and Rap1B-knockout mice, cell–cell junction remodeling and EC monolayer resistivity in Rap1-deficient ECs under basal, inflammatory or elevated VEGF conditions. Deletion of either Rap1 isoform impaired de novo adherens junction (AJ) formation and recovery from LPS-induced barrier disruption in vivo. However, only Rap1A deficiency increased permeability in ECs and lung vessels. Interestingly, Rap1B deficiency attenuated VEGF-induced permeability in vivo and AJ remodeling in vitro. Therefore, only Rap1A is required for the maintenance of normal vascular integrity. Importantly, Rap1B is the primary isoform essential for normal VEGF-induced EC barrier dissolution. Deletion of either Rap1 isoform protected against hyper permeability in the STZ-induced diabetes model, suggesting clinical implications for targeting Rap1 in pathologies with VEGF-induced hyperpermeability.
The methyltransferase SET9 regulates TGFB1 activation of renal fibroblasts via interaction with SMAD3
Authors: Shuttleworth Victoria G. , Gaughan Luke , Nawafa Lotfia , Mooney Caitlin A. , Cobb Steven L. , Sheerin Neil S. , Logan Ian R. 
Published: December 2017

ABSTRACT
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a global socioeconomic problem. It is characterised by the presence of differentiated myofibroblasts, which cause tissue fibrosis in response to TGFB1, leading to renal failure. Here, we define a novel interaction between the SET9 lysine methyltransferase (also known as SETD7) and SMAD3, the principal mediator of TGFB1 signalling in myofibroblasts. We show that SET9-deficient fibroblasts exhibit globally altered gene expression profiles in response to TGFB1, whilst overexpression of SET9 enhances SMAD3 transcriptional activity. We also show that SET9 facilitates nuclear import of SMAD3 and controls SMAD3 protein degradation via ubiquitylation. On a cellular level, we demonstrate that SET9 is broadly required for the effects of TGFB1 in diseased primary renal fibroblasts; SET9 promotes fibroblast migration into wounds, expression of extracellular matrix proteins, collagen contractility and myofibroblast differentiation. Finally, we demonstrate that SET9 is recruited to the α-smooth muscle actin gene in response to TGFB1, providing a mechanism by which SET9 regulates myofibroblast contractility and differentiation. Together with previous studies, we make the case for SET9 inhibition in the treatment of progressive CKD.
Rheb localized on the Golgi membrane activates lysosome-localized mTORC1 at the Golgi–lysosome contact site
Authors: Hao Feike , Kondo Kazuhiko , Itoh Takashi , Ikari Sumiko , Nada Shigeyuki , Okada Masato , Noda Takeshi 
Published: December 2017

ABSTRACT
In response to amino acid supply, mTORC1, a master regulator of cell growth, is recruited to the lysosome and activated by the small GTPase Rheb. However, the intracellular localization of Rheb is controversial. In this study, we showed that a significant portion of Rheb is localized on the Golgi but not on the lysosome. GFP–Rheb could activate mTORC1, even when forced to exclusively localize to the Golgi. Likewise, artificial recruitment of mTORC1 to the Golgi allowed its activation. Accordingly, the Golgi was in contact with the lysosome at an newly discovered area of the cell that we term the Golgi–lysosome contact site (GLCS). The number of GLCSs increased in response to amino acid supply, whereas GLCS perturbation suppressed mTORC1 activation. These results suggest that inter-organelle communication between the Golgi and lysosome is important for mTORC1 regulation and the Golgi-localized Rheb may activate mTORC1 at GLCSs.
Ρόλοι και διαδικασίες λήψης απόφασης σε επίπεδο σχολικού οργανισμού
Authors: Γόγολα Αγγελική , Κατσής Αθανάσιος 
Published: December 2017

Σκοπός της έρευνας είναι η ανίχνευση του ρόλου και του βαθμού συμμετοχής στις διαδικασίες λήψης απόφασης των σχολικών ηγετών και των συλλογικών οργάνων των σχολικών οργανισμών. Εκατόν ογδόντα δύο (182) εκπαιδευτικοί ανταποκρίθηκαν στην έρευνα, μέσω διαδικασίας μη αναλογικής στρωματοποιημένης δειγματοληψίας. Κλήθηκαν να αποκριθούν σε ερωτήσεις, ενός δομημένου ερωτηματολογίου που κατασκευάστηκε για τις ανάγκες της εν λόγω έρευνας. Η στατιστική επεξεργασία των δεδομένων έγινε μέσω περιγραφικής στατιστικής, με τη βοήθεια του προγράμματος IBM SPSS statistics v.23. Τα αποτελέσματα της έρευνας ανέδειξαν σημαντικές ελλείψεις και αδυναμίες του εκπαιδευτικού μας συστήματος, που εστιάζονται σε ζητήματα σχολικής αυτονομίας. Επισημαίνεται ο περιορισμένος ρόλος της σχολικής ηγεσίας, αλλά και η ελλιπής συμμετοχή στις διαδικασίες λήψης απόφασης τόσο των διευθυντών, όσο και των εκπαιδευτικών, των μαθητών και γονέων τους.
Anatomy and physiology, 5. The autonomic nervous system
Authors: Peate Ian 
Published: December 2017

The nervous system acts as the body's mainframe, its computer; it has a responsibility for and controls all facets of voluntary and involuntary action. The nervous system comprises the central nervous system and the peripheral nervous system. This article provides an overview of the autonomic nervous system (ANS), a component of the peripheral nervous system. The ANS therefore has a major role to play in the maintenance of homeostasis, regulating the body's automatic, involuntary functions. An overview of this complex system is provided, with the intention of providing the healthcare assistant and assistant practitioner (HCA and AP) with further insight and understanding in order for them to offer care to people. At the end of the article, there is a glossary of terms, as well as a short quiz.
Using the Solihull Approach in breastfeeding support groups: Maternal perceptions
Authors: Tan Monique , Rheeston Mary , Douglas Hazel 
Published: December 2017

The October issue of BJM explored using the Solihull Approach in breastfeeding support groups from the perspective of breastfeeding peer supporters. This article examines the mothers' experiences Background UK breastfeeding rates are among the lowest in the world, so it is necessary to understand what makes breastfeeding support successful. Anecdotal reports of a West Midlands breastfeeding support group noted the benefits of using a psychosocial model, the Solihull Approach, in their staff training. Aims To formally explore maternal perceptions of this peer support breastfeeding service. Methods Subgroup sampling resulted in nine semi-structured interviews, which were then analysed with thematic analysis. Findings The Solihull Approach helped to create safe spaces, both literally (between supporters and mothers) and figuratively (atmosphere of trust and acceptance in the venues). It also ensured tailored informational and emotional support, which sustained the mothers' attendance to the group. Conclusions Breastfeeding support groups can gain in consistency from being underpinned by a model: Solihull Approach would be a promising candidate, as its influence can be helpful to the emotional wellbeing and breastfeeding outcomes of all mothers, regardless of their socioeconomic background.
Mindfulness for men with pregnant partners: An integrative literature review (Part two)
Authors: Jones Donovan , Ebert Lyn , Hazelton Michael 
Published: December 2017

Background Both men and women can experience depressive or anxious episodes when transitioning to parenthood. Mindfulness interventions are one way to teach men coping strategies to manage these feelings. Aim This integrative review examined original research, evaluating mindfulness as an intervention for men during the perinatal period. Methods A comprehensive search resulted in 157 articles. After applying defined inclusion and exclusion criteria, 2 original research papers remained. Thematic analysis identified five themes, the first three of which were discussed in Part I of this article. Findings Mindfulness based stress reduction strategies for men have been shown to be effective across a range of health issues, although there is little research during the perinatal period. Research suggests that men engaged in mindfulness based stress reduction in the perinatal period experienced better regulation of emotions and stress, and felt more present for their pregnant partners. Conclusions To improve men's wellbeing, innovative ways of providing perinatal mindfulness based stress reduction are needed. New or adapted mindfulness based stress reduction programmes are needed to improve men's awareness, empathy, self-esteem and psychological wellbeing to better support their pregnant partners.
A values-based curriculum to support aesthetic ‘ways of knowing’ in an undergraduate midwifery programme
Authors: Russell Kim , Williams Jacqui 
Published: December 2017

In higher education, the term ‘values-based learning’ is used to emphasise aesthetic, values-based knowing; that is, the art, rather than the science, of caring. In midwifery, aesthetic learning is premised on the creation of meaningful relationships and the use of knowledge and skills that recognise individuality and support humanity. Therefore, it was deemed important to develop a midwifery curriculum that recognised the aesthetic values of care and compassion and those of midwifery educators.The new midwifery curriculum was developed over a 2-year period of iterative discussion with the midwifery academic team and wide consultation with stakeholders. This article presents a pragmatic approach to designing and developing values-based learning opportunities in a midwifery undergraduate programme in one English university, and how a values-based midwifery curriculum model was conceptualised and made central to the learning and teaching strategy for a new curriculum.
Vicarious birth trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder: Preparing and protecting student midwives
Authors: Power Alison , Mullan Jenny 
Published: December 2017

Post-traumatic stress disorder was first recognised in war veterans who had experienced extreme violence during military combat; however, it is now understood to be caused by a wide range of traumatic experiences, including serious accidents, abuse, natural disasters or terrorist attacks—any event in which a person fears for their life. Traumatic childbirth is also a potential cause, not only for the mother, but also for those who may witness the birth, such as midwives, student midwives, obstetricians and birth partners. This condition is termed vicarious birth trauma. This article will examine the definition of both vicarious birth trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder, and consider the evidence in relation to how these conditions affect midwives and student midwives. It will offer suggestions for personal and organisational management and support strategies, based on research findings and expert advice.
Balancing shared decision-making with ethical principles in optimising medicines
Authors: Vincer Kirstie , Kaufman Gerri 
Published: December 2017

The key aims of non-medical prescribing include improving patient care and increasing patient choice in accessing medicines. The guiding principles of medicines optimisation, which involve understanding the patient experience, the evidenced-based choice of medicines, and making medicines use as safe as possible, are key to achieving the aims. In optimising medicines, practitioners aim to respect patient autonomy, seek to do good (beneficence), and avoid causing harm (non-maleficence). These are important ethical principles that underpin prescribing decisions. Balancing the principles of medicines optimisation with ethical principles can be a complex skill. In this article, a case study from clinical practice is used to explore the challenge of balancing the autonomy and decision-making preferences of a carer, with upholding the principles of beneficence and non-maleficence, in prescribing for a child with asthma.