bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Atomic structure of ‘W’‐type quantum well heterostructures investigated by aberration‐corrected STEM
Authors: KÜKELHAN P. , BEYER A. , FUCHS C. , WESELOH M.J. , KOCH S.W. , STOLZ W. , VOLZ K. 
Published: September 2017

SummaryThe atomic structure of (GaIn)As/Ga(AsSb)/(GaIn)As‐‘W’‐type quantum well heterostructures (‘W’‐QWHs) is investigated by scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM). These structures were grown by metal organic vapour phase epitaxy and are built for type‐II laser systems in the infrared wavelength regime. For two samples grown at 525°C and 550°C, intensity profiles are extracted from the STEM images for each sublattice separately. These intensity profiles are compared to the one obtained from an image simulation of an ideal ‘W’‐QWH that is modelled in close agreement with the experiment. From the intensity profiles, the width of the different quantum wells (QWs) can be determined. Additionally, characteristics connected to the growth of the structures, such as segregation coefficients and material homogeneity, are calculated. Finally, composition profiles are derived from the STEM intensity profiles to a first approximation. For these composition profiles, the expected photoluminescence (PL) is computed based using the semiconductor luminescence equations. The PL spectra are then compared to experimental measurements for both samples.
Comparative anatomy of neonates of the three major mammalian groups (monotremes, marsupials, placentals) and implications for the ancestral mammalian neonate morphotype
Authors: Ferner Kirsten , Schultz Julia A. , Zeller Ulrich 
Published: September 2017

AbstractThe existing different modes of reproduction in monotremes, marsupials and placentals are the main source for our current understanding of the origin and evolution of the mammalian reproduction. The reproductive strategies and, in particular, the maturity states of the neonates differ remarkably between the three groups. Monotremes, for example, are the only extant mammals that lay eggs and incubate them for the last third of their embryonic development. In contrast, marsupials and placentals are viviparous and rely on intra‐uterine development of the neonates via choriovitelline (mainly marsupials) and chorioallantoic (mainly placentals) placentae. The maturity of a newborn is closely linked to the parental care strategy once the neonate is born. The varying developmental degrees of neonates are the main focus of this study. Monotremes and marsupials produce highly altricial and nearly embryonic offspring. Placental mammals always give birth to more developed newborns with the widest range from altricial to precocial. The ability of a newborn to survive and grow in the environment it was born in depends highly on the degree of maturation of vital organs at the time of birth. Here, the anatomy of four neonates of the three major extant mammalian groups is compared. The basis for this study is histological and ultrastructural serial sections of a hatchling ofOrnithorhynchus anatinus(Monotremata), and neonates ofMonodelphis domestica(Marsupialia),Mesocricetus auratus(altricial Placentalia) andMacroscelides proboscideus(precocial Placentalia). Special attention was given to the developmental stages of the organs skin, lung, liver and kidney, which are considered crucial for the maintenance of vital functions. The state of the organs of newborn monotremes and marsupials are found to be able to support a minimum of vital functions outside the uterus. They are sufficient to survive, but without capacities for additional energetic challenges. The organs of the altricial placental neonate are further developed, able to support the maintenance of vital functions and short‐term metabolic increase. The precocial placental newborn shows the most advanced state of organ development, to allow the maintenance of vital functions, stable thermoregulation and high energetic performance. The ancestral condition of a mammalian neonate is interpreted to be similar to the state of organ development found in the newborns of marsupials and monotremes. In comparison, the newborns of altricial and precocial placentals are derived from the ancestral state to a more mature developmental degree associated with advanced organ systems.
Developing nurses’ intercultural/intraprofessional communication skills using the EXCELLence in Cultural Experiential Learning and Leadership Social Interaction Maps
Authors: Henderson Saras , Barker Michelle 
Published: September 2017

Aims and objectivesTo examine how the use of Social Interaction Maps, a tool in theEXCELLence in Cultural Experiential Learning and Leadership Program, can enhance the development of nurses’ intercultural/intraprofessional communication skills.BackgroundNurses face communication challenges when interacting with others from similar background as well as those from a culturally and linguistically diverse background. We used the EXCELLence in Cultural Experiential Learning and Leadership Program's Social Interaction Maps tool to foster intercultural/intraprofessional communication skills in nurses. Social Interaction Maps describe verbal and nonverbal communication behaviours that model ways of communicating in a culturally appropriate manner. The maps include four stages of an interaction, namely Approach, Bridging, Communicating and Departing using the acronymABCD.DesignQualitative approach was used with a purposeful sample of nurses enrolled in a postgraduate course.MethodsFifteen participants were recruited. The Social Interaction Map tool was taught to participants in a workshop where they engaged in sociocultural communication activities using scenarios. Participants were asked to apply Social Interaction Maps in their workplaces. Six weeks later, participants completed a semistructured open‐ended questionnaire and participated in a discussion forum on their experience of using Social Interaction Maps. Data were content‐analysed.ResultsFour themes identified in the use of the Social Interaction Maps were (i) enhancing self‐awareness of communication skills; (ii) promoting skills in being nonconfrontational during difficult interactions; (iii) highlighting the importance of A (Approach) and B (Bridging) in interaction with others; and (iv) awareness of how others interpret what is said C (Communicating) and discussing to resolve issues before closure D (Departing).ConclusionsApplication of the EXCELLence in Cultural Experiential Learning and Leadership Social Interaction Mapping tool was shown to be useful in developing intercultural/intraprofessional communication skills in nurses.Relevance to clinical practiceProfessional development programmes that incorporate EXCELLence in Cultural Experiential Learning and Leadership Social Interaction Maps can enhance nurses’ intercultural/intraprofessional communication competencies when engaging with others from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds and improve the way nurses communicate with each other.
Incidence and risk factors associated with the development of pressure ulcers in an intensive care unit
Authors: González‐Méndez María Isabel , Lima‐Serrano Marta , Martín‐Castaño Catalina , Alonso‐Araujo Inmaculada , Lima‐Rodríguez Joaquín Salvador 
Published: September 2017

Aims and objectivesTo determinate the incidence, incidence rate and risk factors of pressure ulcers in critical care patients.BackgroundPressure ulcers represent one of the most frequent health problems in clinical practice. Specifically, critical patients who are hospitalised in intensive care units have a higher risk of developing a pressure ulcer, with an incidence that fluctuates between 3.3–39.3% according to previous studies.DesignProspective cohort study.MethodsThree hundred and thirty‐five adult patients (over 18 years old) who were hospitalised in intensive care units for at least 24 hr were monitored for a maximum of 32 days. They were excluded if they had a pressure ulcers at admission. The survival rate for pressure ulcers, from stages I–IV, was calculated using the Kaplan–Meier method. A multivariate Cox regression model was adjusted to identify the main risk factors for pressure ulcers: demographic, clinical, prognostic and therapeutic variables.ResultsThe incidence of pressure ulcers in critical patients was 8.1%, and the incidence rate was 11.72 pressure ulcers for 1,000 days of intensive care units stay; 40.6% of pressure ulcers were of stage I and 59.4% of stage II, mainly in the sacrum. According to the Cox model, the main risk factors for pressure ulcers were in‐hospital complications, prognostic scoring system (SAPS III) and length of immobilisation.ConclusionsThe incidence of pressure ulcers is lower than that shown in recent studies. Complications on the unit and the prognosis score were risk factors associated with pressure ulcers but, surprisingly, length of immobilisation was a protective factor.Relevance to clinical practiceSurvival analysis of pressure ulcer allows for identification of risk factors associated with this health problem in the intensive care units. Identifying these factors can help nurses establish interventions to prevent pressure ulcers in this healthcare scenario, given that pressure ulcers prevention is an indicator of nursing quality.
Sleep quality and mood in mothers and fathers accommodated in the family‐centred paediatric ward
Authors: Angelhoff Charlotte , Edéll‐Gustafsson Ulla , Mörelius Evalotte 
Published: September 2017

Aims and objectivesTo describe sleep quality and mood in parents accommodated with their sick child in a family‐centred paediatric ward. Secondary aims were to compare mothers’ and fathers’ sleep quality and mood in the paediatric ward and to compare the parents’ sleep quality and mood between the paediatric ward and in a daily‐life home setting after discharge.BackgroundFrequent interruptions, ward noise and anxiety affect parents’ sleep quality and mood negatively when accommodated with their sick child in paediatric wards. Poor sleep quality and negative mood decrease the parents’ ability to sustain attention and focus, and to care for their sick child.MethodsThis was a prospective and descriptive study. Eighty‐two parents (61 mothers and 21 fathers) with children (median age 6.25 years) admitted to six paediatric wards participated in the study. Uppsala Sleep Inventory, a sleep diary and the Mood Adjective Checklist were used to measure sleep quality and mood.ResultsThe parents had a good sleep quality in the paediatric ward even though they had more nocturnal awakenings compared to home. Moreover, they were less alert, less interested and had reduced concentration, and were more tired, dull and passive in the hospital than at home after discharge. Vital sign checks, noises made by the staff and medical treatment were given reasons influencing sleep. Poor sleep quality correlated with negative mood.ConclusionParents’ sleep quality in family‐centred paediatric care is good. However, the habitual sleep efficacy before admittance to the hospital is lower than expected and needs to be further investigated.Relevance to Clinical PracticeThe healthcare professionals should acknowledge parents’ sleep and mood when they are accommodated with their sick child. Further should care at night be scheduled and sleep promoted for the parents to maintain health and well‐being in the family.
Effects of Gingival Retraction Paste and Subsequent Cleaning with Hydrogen Peroxide on the Polymerization of Three Elastomeric Impression Materials: An In Vitro Study
Authors: Abduljabbar Tariq S. , Al Amri Mohammad D. , Al Rifaiy Mohammad Q. , Al‐Sowygh Zeyad H. , Vohra Fahim A. , Balous Moneeb A. , Alqarni Adel S. , Alotaibi Abdulmajeed O. 
Published: September 2017

AbstractPurposeIt has been hypothesized that there are no effects of Expasyl and subsequent cleaning with hydrogen peroxide on polymerization of selected commonly used impression materials. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of Expasyl paste on the polymerization of three impression materials with and without subsequent cleaning using 3% hydrogen peroxide (H2O2).Materials and MethodsNine standardized stainless steel specimens were fabricated. One hundred and eighty impressions were made using 3 materials (60 each) as follows: group I: poly(vinyl siloxane) (PVS) (Virtual); group II: polyether (Monophase); group III: polyether (Impregum). Groups were subdivided into 3 categories: control without intervention (n = 20), pre‐application of Expasyl and subsequent 1‐minute washing with water and air‐drying (n = 20), and pre‐application of Expasyl and subsequent cleaning with 3% H2O2 for 10 seconds (n = 20). All impressions were made by one operator using auto‐mixing cartridges under standardized conditions at room temperature. Evaluation of the polymerization inhibition was blindly and independently performed by three practitioners with comparable experience using a visual scale. The observation was subjectively categorized as noninhibited or inhibited. Data were tabulated and analyzed using Fisher's exact test with significance level set at p ˂ 0.05.ResultsSignificant differences were found between the control group and the impressions made after contamination with Expasyl (p < 0.001). Polymerization inhibition of PVS and Impregum was similar (in 85% and 90% of the specimens, respectively) when washed with water. There was a statistically significant reduction in polymerization inhibition in both upon cleaning with H2O2 (p < 0.001); however, polymerization inhibition occurred in 100% of Monophase specimens when contaminated with Expasyl despite the washing technique used.ConclusionsUnder these in vitro conditions, it can be concluded that the remnants of Expasyl on specimens caused a significant polymerization inhibition of the 3 impression materials tested. Subsequent cleaning with 3% H2O2 significantly reduced this inhibitory effect on polymerization. Expasyl should not be used with Monophase polyether material.
Role of a naturally varying flow regime in Everglades restoration
Authors: Harvey Jud W. , Wetzel Paul R. , Lodge Thomas E. , Engel Victor C. , Ross Michael S. 
Published: September 2017

AbstractThe Everglades is a low‐gradient floodplain predominantly on organic soil that undergoes seasonally pulsing sheetflow through a network of deepwater sloughs separated by slightly higher elevation ridges. The seasonally pulsing flow permitted the coexistence of ridge and slough vegetation, including the persistence of productive, well‐connected sloughs that seasonally concentrated prey and supported wading bird nesting success. Here we review factors contributing to the origin and to degradation of the ridge and slough ecosystem in an attempt to answer “How much flow is needed to restore functionality”? A key restoration objective is to increase sheetflow lost during the past century to reestablish interactions between flow, water depth, vegetation production and decomposition, and transport of flocculent organic sediment that build and maintain ridge and slough distinctions. Our review finds broad agreement that perturbations of water level depth and its fluctuations were primary in the degradation of landscape functions, with critical contributions from perturbed water quality, and flow velocity and direction. Whereas water levels are expected to be improved on average across a range of restoration scenarios that replace between 79 and 91% of predrainage flows, the diminished microtopography substantially decreases the probability of timely improvements in some areas whereas others that retain microtopographic differences are poised for restoration benefits. New advances in predicting restoration outcomes are coming from biophysical modeling of ridge–slough dynamics, system‐wide measurements of landscape functionality, and large‐scale flow restoration experiments, including active management techniques to kick‐start slough regeneration.
Serial chest CT in cryptogenic organizing pneumonia: Evolutional changes and prognostic determinants
Authors: Chung Man P. , Nam Bo D. , Lee Kyung S. , Han Joungho , Park Jai S. , Hwang Jung H. , Cha Min J. , Kim Tae J. 
Published: September 2017

ABSTRACTBackground and objectiveCryptogenic organizing pneumonia (COP) is corticosteroid responsive but residual computed tomography (CT) chest changes are often noted. The present study examined clinical and HRCT features of COP in which there was incomplete resolution.MethodsWe studied 93 patients with histopathologically confirmed COP and serial HRCT imaging. Clinical features were assessed, and serial CT images were analysed. Uni‐ and multivariate analyses were performed to determine clinical or imaging factors related to incomplete resolution on CT.ResultsComplete resolution on CT imaging was seen in 21/93 patients (23%) and residual abnormalities were seen in 72/93 patients (77%). In univariate analysis, total lesion (P = 0.036), degree of consolidation (P = 0.011), treatment duration (P < 0.001) and single‐breath carbon monoxide diffusing capacity of lung (P = 0.021) were significantly associated with residual imaging abnormalities. In multivariate analysis, extent of consolidation (P = 0.018; odds ratio (OR) = 14.92) and treatment duration (P = 0.011; OR = 1.32) remained as significant factors linked to residual abnormalities. CT images in unresolved COP were akin to fibrotic non‐specific interstitial pneumonia (fNSIP) in 53/72 (74%) patients.ConclusionClinical, radiological and lung diffusion measurements were related to incomplete resolution on CT after COP. Imaging abnormalities on CT chest generally resembled fNSIP.
Efficacy and safety of transbronchial lung biopsy for the diagnosis of lymphangioleiomyomatosis: A report of 24 consecutive patients
Authors: Koba Taro , Arai Toru , Kitaichi Masanori , Kasai Takahiko , Hirose Masaki , Tachibana Kazunobu , Sugimoto Chikatoshi , Akira Masanori , Hayashi Seiji , Inoue Yoshikazu 
Published: September 2017

ABSTRACTBackground and objectiveLymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM) is a diffuse cystic lung disease that occurs in women of childbearing age. LAM can be diagnosed on a clinical basis in patients with typical high‐resolution computed tomography (HRCT) patterns and at least one other corroborating disease feature, such as chylothorax, angiomyolipoma, tuberous sclerosis complex or elevated serum vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)‐D. However, patients who do not meet these criteria require tissue confirmation for a definitive diagnosis, and the utility of methods that are less invasive than surgical lung biopsy, such as transbronchial lung biopsy (TBLB), are not well studied. We retrospectively studied the efficacy and safety of TBLB for the diagnosis of LAM.MethodsFrom January 1991 to August 2015, 131 consecutive LAM patients were prospectively registered in our study, and a TBLB was conducted for 24 patients. We retrospectively studied the yield and safety of TBLB in this cohort.ResultsAll 24 patients were women; the median age was 42 years. HRCT showed multiple round thin‐walled cysts diffusely scattered throughout the lungs. The median level of serum VEGF‐D was 2109 pg/mL. Characteristic pathological findings for LAM were identified in 17 patients (70.8%) by two expert pathologists. The %predicted value for diffusing capacity of carbon monoxide was significantly lower in the 17 TBLB‐positive LAM patients compared to the seven TBLB‐negative LAM patients (P = 0.046). There were no serious adverse events such as pneumothorax or uncontrollable bleeding due to TBLB.ConclusionTBLB is a safe and effective method for the pathological diagnosis of LAM.
Novel clinical scoring system to identify patients with pneumothorax with suspicion for Birt–Hogg–Dubé syndrome
Authors: Ebana Hiroki , Mizobuchi Teruaki , Kurihara Masatoshi , Kobayashi Etsuko , Haga Takahiro , Okamoto Shoichi , Takahashi Kazuhisa , Seyama Kuniaki 
Published: September 2017

ABSTRACTBackground and objectiveBirt–Hogg–Dubé syndrome (BHDS) is a rare hereditary disease that presents with multiple lung cysts and pneumothorax (PTX). Although some reports propose that findings from chest computed tomography enable one to distinguish BHDS from primary spontaneous pneumothorax (PSP), it is still unclear whether clinical features are useful for identifying patients with suspicion of BHDS from those with PTX.MethodsWe retrospectively reviewed the medical records of patients with PTX who underwent video‐assisted thoracoscopic surgery at Nissan Tamagawa Hospital from January 2012 to December 2015.ResultsWe identified a total of 1141 patients with PTX, including 54 with BHDS and 517 with PSP. Among them, logistic regression analysis segregated five features that were significantly associated with BHDS: familial history of PTX, past history of bilateral PTX, age at the first episode of PTX (≥25 years old (y.o.)), body mass index (≥18.5) and gender (female). We assigned scores of 3, 3, 2, 2 and 1 to the five features, respectively, to establish a system with a calculated score from 0 to 11. The cut‐off value of a calculated score ≥ 4 yielded the highest sensitivity of 93% and specificity of 86%. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis showed the area under the curve reflecting an accuracy of this diagnostic test as 0.953.ConclusionBHDS has several clinical features distinct from PSP. Our scoring system consists of only five clinical variables that are easily evaluated and efficiently separate BHDS patients from those who have PTX without relying on an imaging study. Further prospective study is needed to confirm our findings.
Surfactant protein D multimerization and gene polymorphism in COPD and asthma
Authors: Fakih Dalia , Akiki Zeina , Junker Kirsten , Medlej‐Hashim Myrna , Waked Mirna , Salameh Pascale , Holmskov Uffe , Bouharoun‐Tayoun Hasnaa , Chamat Soulaima , Sorensen Grith L. , Jounblat Rania 
Published: September 2017

ABSTRACTBackground and objectiveA structural single nucleotide polymorphism rs721917 in the surfactant protein D (SP‐D) gene, known as Met11Thr, was reported to influence the circulating levels and degree of multimerization of SP‐D and was associated with both COPD and atopy in asthma. Moreover, disease‐related processes are known to degrade multimerized SP‐D, however, the degree of the protein degradation in these diseases is not clarified. We aimed to determine the distribution of multimerized (high molecular weight (HMW)) and non‐multimerized (low molecular weight (LMW)) species of serum SP‐D and their correlation with genetic polymorphisms and presence of disease in Lebanese COPD and asthmatic patients.MethodsSerum SP‐D levels were measured by ELISA in 88 COPD, 121 asthmatic patients and 223 controls. Randomly selected subjects were chosen for genotyping of rs721917 and multimerization studies. HMW and LMW SP‐D were separated by gel permeation chromatography.ResultsSerum SP‐D levels were significantly increased in patients with COPD, but not in asthmatic patients, when compared to controls. Met11Thr variation strongly affected serum SP‐D levels and the degree of multimerization, but was not associated with COPD and asthma in the study. Remarkably, HMW/LMW serum SP‐D ratio was significantly lower in Met11/Met11 COPD and asthmatic patients compared to controls.ConclusionCollectively, non‐multimerized species of serum SP‐D were dominant in COPD and asthmatic patients suggesting that degradation of SP‐D takes place to a significant degree in pulmonary disease. Assays that can separate SP‐D proteolytic breakdown products or modified forms from naturally occurring SP‐D trimers may result in optimal disease markers for pulmonary inflammatory diseases.