bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The relationship between mother to child calories served and maternal perception of hunger
Authors: Stromberg S. E. , Janicke D. M. 
Published: May 2015

AbstractBackgroundResearch has examined self‐serving portions in adults and children and has shown that larger portion size is related to more calories consumed. The present study examines factors that may influence the portion sizes a mother serves her child at a mealtime.MethodsThe present observational study included a community‐based sample of 29 mother–child dyads. Dyads attended a 1‐h session in which they shared a meal together. A buffet of food was provided and the mother was asked to serve her child and herself. The amount of food served and consumed by the child was recorded. Main independent variables of interest included maternal body mass index (BMI), child BMI Z‐score, and maternal perception of personal and child hunger. The primary dependent variable was the total calories the mother served her child. Regression models and a moderated mediation were used to examine the relation between variables.ResultsCalories served to the child was positively associated with calories consumed by the child. Maternal perception of her own hunger was related to her perception of her child's hunger. Furthermore, maternal perception of child hunger explained the relationship between maternal perception of personal hunger and total calories served to the child, although only for obese mothers.ConclusionsMothers may be serving their children larger portion sizes based on their personal weight and their perception of their child's hunger. To help children obtain or maintain a healthy weight, obesity prevention and intervention programmes should help mothers serve more appropriate serving sizes to their children.
Adaptive optics in spinning disk microscopy: improved contrast and brightness by a simple and fast method
Authors: FRAISIER V. , CLOUVEL G. , JASAITIS A. , DIMITROV A. , PIOLOT T. , SALAMERO J. 
Published: May 2015

SummaryMulticonfocal microscopy gives a good compromise between fast imaging and reasonable resolution. However, the low intensity of live fluorescent emitters is a major limitation to this technique. Aberrations induced by the optical setup, especially the mismatch of the refractive index and the biological sample itself, distort the point spread function and further reduce the amount of detected photons. Altogether, this leads to impaired image quality, preventing accurate analysis of molecular processes in biological samples and imaging deep in the sample. The amount of detected fluorescence can be improved with adaptive optics. Here, we used a compact adaptive optics module (adaptive optics box for sectioning optical microscopy), which was specifically designed for spinning disk confocal microscopy. The module overcomes undesired anomalies by correcting for most of the aberrations in confocal imaging. Existing aberration detection methods require prior illumination, which bleaches the sample. To avoid multiple exposures of the sample, we established an experimental model describing the depth dependence of major aberrations. This model allows us to correct for those aberrations when performing a z‐stack, gradually increasing the amplitude of the correction with depth. It does not require illumination of the sample for aberration detection, thus minimizing photobleaching and phototoxicity. With this model, we improved both signal‐to‐background ratio and image contrast. Here, we present comparative studies on a variety of biological samples.
Illustrating ontogenetic change in the dentition of theNile monitor lizard,Varanus niloticus: a case study in the application of geometric morphometric methods for the quantification of shape–size heterodonty
Authors: D'Amore Domenic C. 
Published: May 2015

AbstractMany recent attempts have been made to quantify heterodonty in non‐mammalian vertebrates, but the majority of these are limited to Euclidian measurements. One taxon frequently investigated isVaranus niloticus, the Nile monitor. Juveniles possess elongate, pointed teeth (caniniform) along the entirety of the dental arcade, whereas adults develop large, bulbous distal teeth (molariform). The purpose of this study was to present a geometric morphometric method to quantifyV. niloticusheterodonty through ontogeny that may be applied to other non‐mammalian taxa. Data were collected from the entire tooth row of 19 dry skull specimens. A semilandmark analysis was conducted on the outline of the photographed teeth, and size and shape were derived. Width was also measured with calipers. From these measures, sample ranges and allometric functions were created using multivariate statistical analyses for each tooth position separately, as well as overall measures of heterodonty for each specimen based on morphological disparity. The results confirm and expand upon previous studies, showing measurable shape–size heterodonty in the species with significant differences at each tooth position. Tooth size increases with body size at most positions, and the allometric coefficient increases at more distal positions. Width shows a dramatic increase at the distal positions with ontogeny, often displaying pronounced positive allometry. Dental shape varied in two noticeable ways, with the first composing the vast majority of shape variance: (i) caniniformy vs. molariformy and (ii) mesially leaning, ‘rounded’ apices vs. distally leaning, ‘pointed’ apices. The latter was twice as influential in the mandible, a consequence of host bone shape. Mesial teeth show no significant shape change with growth, whereas distal teeth change significantly due primarily to an increase in molariformy. Overall, heterodonty increases with body size concerning both tooth size and shape, but shape heterodonty changes in the mandible are much less pronounced. Although it is unclear to what degreeV. niloticusspecializes in hard prey items (durophagy), previous studies of varanid feeding behavior, along with research on analogous durophagous vertebrates, indicate a division of labor along the tooth row in adults, due to a possible transition to at least a partial durophagous niche. The geometric morphometric method proposed here, although not without its own limitations, may be ideal for use with a number of dental morphotypes in the future.
Promoting graded exercise as a part of multimodal treatment in patients diagnosed with stress‐related exhaustion
Authors: Gerber Markus , Jonsdottir Ingibjörg H , Arvidson Elin , Lindwall Magnus , Lindegård Agneta 
Published: May 2015

Aims and objectivesThe purpose of this study was to examine, by using patient cohort data, the changes in exercise habits during a 12‐month multimodal treatment period, in patients seeking specialist care for stress‐related exhaustion.BackgroundRandomised controlled trials have greatly contributed to the fact that both physicians and patients regard regular exercise participation as a highly valuable and effective treatment for mental health disorders. Nevertheless, little is known about the adherence to physical activity recommendations for patients with stress‐related mental problems in a clinical setting. Knowledge about what can be achieved within the clinical context, and how current treatments can be improved, is crucial for clinicians, researchers, educators, managers and policy makers involved in nursing practice.DesignLongitudinal analysis of patient cohort data.MethodsThe sample consisted of 169 patients (79% women; mean age = 42·7 years) who were referred to a stress clinic due to stress‐related exhaustion. All patients received multimodal treatment with similar components. Two different approaches to promote exercise were used in the clinical work (general comprehensive instruction either with or without an 18‐week coached exercise programme). The self‐reported overall exercise level was assessed at baseline and at three, six and 12 months after the first visit. Group by time effects were examined with repeated measures analyses of variance.ResultsThe frequency, duration and intensity of exercise increased substantially during the first three months of multimodal treatment. Although exercise levels tended to decrease thereafter, there was still a significant time effect at the 12‐month follow‐up showing that follow‐up exercise levels were higher than at baseline.ConclusionBoth general exercise instructions and coached exercise were effective in promoting exercise involvement.Relevance to clinical practiceExercise can be successfully promoted as a part of multimodal treatment in patients with stress‐related exhaustion.
Discovering what works well: exploring quality dementia care in hospital wards using an appreciative inquiry approach
Authors: Scerri Anthony , Innes Anthea , Scerri Charles 
Published: May 2015

Aims and objectivesTo explore the quality dementia care in two geriatric hospital wards using appreciative inquiry with formal care workers and family members of inpatients with dementia.BackgroundCare models such as person‐centred and relationship‐centred care have been developed to explain what ‘quality’ dementia care should be. However, their usefulness and relevance to clinicians has been questioned.DesignUsing an exploratory qualitative design within an appreciative inquiry framework, 33 care workers working in a geriatric hospital and 10 family members of patients with dementia were interviewed.MethodsOpen‐ended questions were asked to encourage care workers to narrate positive care experiences when the care was perceived to be at its best and to identify what made these experiences possible. Interviews were audio‐taped and transcribed whilst data were analysed thematically using a qualitative data analysis software to assist in data management.ResultsPositive care experiences can be understood within five care processes, namely building a relationship between the ‘extended’ dementia care triad, providing ‘quality time’ and ‘care in time’, going the ‘extra mile’, attending to the psychosocial needs and attending to the physical needs with a ‘human touch’. Factors facilitating these positive care experiences included personal attributes of care workers, and organisational, environmental and contextual factors.ConclusionsThis study provides an alternative and pragmatic approach to understanding quality dementia care and complements the body of knowledge on factors influencing dementia care practices in hospitals.Relevance to clinical practiceBy understanding the components of quality dementia care and how these can be achieved from different stakeholders, it is possible to develop strategies aimed at improving the care offered to patients with dementia in hospitals.
Parental satisfaction with inpatient care of children with cerebral palsy
Authors: Iannelli Maria , Harvey Adrienne , O'Neill Jenny , Reddihough Dinah 
Published: May 2015

AimChildren with cerebral palsy (CP) have complex health‐care needs. This study examines levels of parental satisfaction with inpatient care for children with CP at a tertiary care hospital to identify areas for improvement.MethodsParents/guardians of children with CP and parents/guardians of children without a disability admitted to hospital completed a custom‐designed questionnaire assessing six areas of the hospital admission: (i) the admission process; (ii) the child's personal care; (iii) the child's medical care; (iv) overall care of the child; (v) the parent's experience in hospital; and (vi) keeping up to date in hospital. Differences between the two groups were analysed using Student's t‐tests.ResultsParents of children with CP were significantly less satisfied with the inpatient care as compared with parents of children without a disability in four of the six categories: ‘my child's personal care’ (P = 0.0033), ‘my child's medical care’ (P = 0.0350), ‘overall care’ (P = 0.0081) and ‘my experience in the hospital’ (P = 0.0209). When the overall questionnaire was compared between the two groups, parents of children with CP were less satisfied with care than parents of children without a disability (P = 0.0036).ConclusionParents of children with CP are less satisfied with the inpatient care of their child compared with parents of children without a disability. This information should be instrumental in informing change to ensure that parent satisfaction levels improve to a level consistent with other children admitted to a tertiary care setting.
Undescended testis: Level of knowledge among potential referring health‐care providers
Authors: Lim Li Yan , Nah Shireen A , Lakshmi Narasimhan K , Yap Te‐Lu , Jacobsen Anette S , Low Yee , Ong Caroline CP 
Published: May 2015

AimStudies report that most boys with undescended testis(UDT) are referred and operated beyond the recommended age of 1 year, possibly due to lack of awareness of treatment guidelines. We investigate the level of knowledge of UDT among potential referring health‐care providers.MethodWe devised a survey on the clinical features and appropriate management of UDT. Using convenience sampling, we approached health‐care professionals with regular contact with paediatric patients and final year medical students. Respondents were allowed to remain anonymous. They were categorised according to specialty and level of experience/training.ResultsOf 1179 approached, 203 responded. Thirty‐six (24%) of 149 qualified doctors had never seen a case of UDT. Median score was 6 (range 1–9). There was no significant difference in scores when comparing specialty. Mean scores decreased significantly in trend according to level of experience. When questioned regarding timings of referral and orchidopexy, 24% of qualified doctors would not refer until 9 months of age, and 66% thought orchidopexy should be done after 1 year old. Half would stop examining for UDT after 2 years old.ConclusionsInexperience with UDT and outdated knowledge may contribute to delays in referral for UDT. Many would stop examining for UDT at 2 years old, placing undue reliance on accurate physical examination in early childhood and indicating lack of awareness of the ascending testis. Community health initiatives must emphasise recent changes in guidelines for management of UDT.
Protective effects of polyphenol‐rich blackcurrant preparation on biochemical and metabolic biomarkers of rats fed a diet high in fructose
Authors: Jaroslawska J. , Wroblewska M. , Juskiewicz J. , Brzuzan L. , Zdunczyk Z. 
Published: May 2015

SummaryThe purpose of the study was to compare in vivo effects of dietary supplementation with blackcurrant pomaces containing variable level of phenolic compounds on blood and internal organ parameters in rats. Forty‐eight growing Wistar rats were allocated to six treatment groups in which they were fed ad libitum for 4 weeks the following diets: standard chow (group S), high‐fructose diet (group F), standard chow supplemented with 7.7% of either rich in polyphenols unprocessed blackcurrant pomace (UB) or polyphenol‐deprived processed pomace (PB) (groups SUB and SPB respectively), and high‐fructose diet with 7.7% of either UB or PB (groups FUB and FPB respectively). Blackcurrant pomace, irrespective of its phenolic content, selectively modulated the enzymatic activity of the colon microflora, reducing the activity of enzymes with potentially harmful properties and promoting activities of enzymes that might increase the use of carbohydrates that escaped digestion in the upper gastrointestinal tract. Although both pomaces increased antioxidant status of the liver and blood serum, the unprocessed pomace showed a greater ability to inhibit lipid peroxidation in heart and kidney than the pomace that was less abundant in polyphenols. Both of the examined pomaces had a positive influence on serum lipid profile, but better hypocholesterolemic effect was observed after supplementation of the diet with unprocessed preparation. The biochemical action of unprocessed pomace in the normalization of fructose‐induced disturbances was more distinct than those of pomace remaining after extraction.
Longitudinal Evaluation of Sexual Function in a Cohort of Pre- and Postmenopausal Women
Authors: Burri Andrea , Hilpert Peter , Spector Timothy 
Published: May 2015

Abstract

Introduction
Aspects of women's sexual functioning that have received relatively little attention are its stability and how changes in the different sexual response domains influence each other over time.

Aim
The aim of this study was to describe the changes and to evaluate the stability of self-reported sexual functioning over a 4-year period in a population sample of British women.

Methods
A 4-year follow-up study on N = 507 women, including 178 pre- and 329 postmenopausal women, was conducted. The validated Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) was applied.

Main Outcome Measure
A multigroup path analytical model was used to examine autoregressive effects (the effect of a domain on itself at a later point in time) and cross-lag effects (one variable affecting another variable at a later point in time) across all FSFI domains of sexual functioning between pre- and postmenopausal women.

Results
Overall, the proportion of postmenopausal women suffering from a sexual dysfunction at measurement point 1 (T1) was higher compared with premenopausal women (pre: 34.3% vs. post: 14.5%). However, both groups showed a comparable number of women developing a sexual problem (pre: 22.2% vs. post: 23.2%) or improving their sexual functioning (7.4% vs. 7.6%) after the 4 years. Furthermore, path model analyses revealed that each domain at T1 significantly predicted its level 4 years later (βs ranging from 0.33 for arousal to 0.57 for lubrication), with the exception of sexual satisfaction. In terms of cross-lag effects, the changes in all domains except for pain were predicted either by levels of desire, arousal, or orgasm at T1 (βs ranging from 0.18 to 0.36) in both groups.

Conclusions
Women's sexual functioning was moderately stable across the 4 years. The main predictors of changes in sexual functioning and satisfaction were desire and arousal, highlighting their role as possible key players in women's sexual health.
The Streptococcus pyogenes orphan protein tyrosine phosphatase, SP‐PTP, possesses dual specificity and essential virulence regulatory functions
Authors: Kant Sashi , Agarwal Shivani , Pancholi Preeti , Pancholi Vijay 
Published: May 2015

SummaryGroup A Streptococcus (GAS) is a human pathogen that causes high morbidity and mortality. GAS lacks a gene encoding tyrosine kinase but contains one encoding tyrosine phosphatase (SP‐PTP). Thus, GAS is thought to lack tyrosine phosphorylation, and the physiological significance of SP‐PTP is, therefore, questionable. Here, we demonstrate that SP‐PTP possesses dual phosphatase specificity for Tyr‐ and Ser/Thr‐phosphorylated GAS proteins, such as Ser/Thr kinase (SP‐STK) and the SP‐STK‐phosphorylated CovR and WalR proteins. Phenotypic analysis of GAS mutants lacking SP‐PTP revealed that the phosphatase activity per se positively regulates growth, cell division and the ability to adhere to and invade host cells. Furthermore, A549 human lung cells infected with GAS mutants lacking SP‐PTP displayed increased Ser‐/Thr‐/Tyr‐phosphorylation. SP‐PTP also differentially regulates the expression of ∼50% of the total GAS genes, including several virulence genes potentially through the two‐component regulators, CovR, WalR and PTS/HPr regulation of Mga. Although these mutants exhibit attenuated virulence, a GAS mutant overexpressing SP‐PTP is hypervirulent. Our study provides the first definitive evidence for the presence and importance of Tyr‐phosphorylation in GAS and the relevance of SP‐PTP as an important therapeutic target.
Combination Systemic Fluorouracil and Radiation for the Treatment of Recalcitrant Condyloma with Associated Squamous Cell Carcinoma in an Immunocompromised 15‐Year‐Old Girl
Authors: Paul Suchismita , Cheng Carol E. , Kroshinsky Daniela 
Published: May 2015

AbstractCondylomata acuminata (CA), or anogenital warts, are typically benign lesions caused by human papillomavirus infection. Although they are rare, immunocompromised individuals are at a higher risk of CA undergoing transformation into invasive anal squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). These patients need aggressive evaluation and management. Treatment of CA is challenging, particularly for immunocompromised hosts, in whom warts are resistant to treatment and commonly recur. Currently, there is no gold standard treatment for CA, especially in children and immunodeficient individuals. We report the case of a 15‐year‐old immunocompromised girl with severe recalcitrant condyloma that resolved after a course of systemic 5‐fluorouracil, mitomycin C, and radiation therapy for SCC.
Nutritional levels of pregnant and postpartum tsetse Glossina pallidipes Austen captured in artificial warthog burrows in the Zambezi Valley of Zimbabwe
Authors: Hargrove John W. , Muzari Mutizwa O. 
Published: May 2015

AbstractIn Zimbabwe, female tsetse Glossina pallidipes Austen, collected from artificial warthog burrows and subjected to ovarian dissection and nutritional analysis, provide the first field estimates of resource allocation from mother to offspring across all of pregnancy. Approximately 45% of 1833 females captured are full‐term pregnant on entering the burrow. The remainder presumably use burrows as refuges at temperatures >32 °C. Maternal residual dry weight (RDW) increases by 1.5 mg after the first feed post‐larviposition but, thereafter, only by 1.4 mg by 90% of pregnancy completion. Uterine RDW changes little by 60% of pregnancy completion but increases by >6 mg by parturition. Between the times of 5% and 90% pregnancy completion, maternal RDW is approximately constant: it then declines 2.8 mg by parturition, balancing larval gains of 2.6 mg. Mothers accumulate 6.3 mg of fat in the first 80% of pregnancy, while uterine fat increases by only 0.8 mg. Thereafter, by parturition, larval fat increases by 4.1 mg, whereas maternal fat declines by 3.3 mg. The larva deposited is 5% heavier than its mother and has 52% more fat. RDW and fat levels, corrected for fly size and haematin, are 1 and 2 mg, respectively, lower in females from traps than those from burrows. Burrow catches provide an improved picture of tsetse pregnancy dynamics, highlighting a reproductive strategy involving resource commitment to the larva being delayed until late pregnancy when sufficient stores guarantee viable pupal production. Larval development in tsetse starts significantly later than the analogous changes during pregnancy in two mammals and two viviparous fish.