bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Direct and indirect effects of elevated atmospheric CO2 on net ecosystem production in a Chesapeake Bay tidal wetland
Authors: Erickson John E. , Peresta Gary , Montovan Kathryn J. , Drake Bert G. 
Published: July 2013

AbstractThe rapid increase in atmospheric CO2 concentrations (Ca) has resulted in extensive research efforts to understand its impact on terrestrial ecosystems, especially carbon balance. Despite these efforts, there are relatively few data comparing net ecosystem exchange of CO2 between the atmosphere and the biosphere (NEE), under both ambient and elevated Ca. Here we report data on annual sums of CO2 (NEEnet) for 19 years on a Chesapeake Bay tidal wetland for Scirpus olneyi (C3 photosynthetic pathway)‐ and Spartina patens (C4 photosynthetic pathway)‐dominated high marsh communities exposed to ambient and elevated Ca (ambient + 340 ppm). Our objectives were to (i) quantify effects of elevated Ca on seasonally integrated CO2 assimilation (NEEnet = NEEday + NEEnight, kg C m−2 y−1) for the two communities; and (ii) quantify effects of altered canopy N content on ecosystem photosynthesis and respiration. Across all years, NEEnet averaged 1.9 kg m−2 y−1 in ambient Ca and 2.5 kg m−2 y−1 in elevated Ca, for the C3‐dominated community. Similarly, elevated Ca significantly (P < 0.01) increased carbon uptake in the C4‐dominated community, as NEEnet averaged 1.5 kg m−2 y−1 in ambient Ca and 1.7 kg m−2 y−1 in elevated Ca. This resulted in an average CO2 stimulation of 32% and 13% of seasonally integrated NEEnet for the C3‐ and C4‐dominated communities, respectively. Increased NEEday was correlated with increased efficiencies of light and nitrogen use for net carbon assimilation under elevated Ca, while decreased NEEnight was associated with lower canopy nitrogen content. These results suggest that rising Ca may increase carbon assimilation in both C3‐ and C4‐dominated wetland communities. The challenge remains to identify the fate of the assimilated carbon.
Factors influencing infection by pandemic influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 over three epidemic waves in Singapore
Authors: Chen Mark I. C. , Cook Alex R. , Lim Wei Yen , Lin Raymond , Cui Lin , Barr Ian G. , Kelso Anne , Chow Vincent T. , Leo Yee Sin , Hsu Jung Pu , Shaw Rob , Chew Serene , Yap Joe Kwan , Phoon Meng Chee , Koh Hiromi W. L. , Zheng Huili , Tan Linda , Lee Vernon J. 
Published: July 2013

IntroductionPrevious influenza pandemics had second and on occasion third waves in many countries that were at times more severe than the initial pandemic waves.ObjectiveThis study aims to determine the seroepidemiology of successive waves of H1N1pdm09 infections in Singapore and the overall risks of infection.MethodsWe performed a cohort study amongst 838 adults, with blood samples provided upon recruitment and at 5 points from 2009 to 2011 and tested by haemagglutination inhibition (HI) with A/California/7/2009 (H1N1pdm09). Surveys on key demographic and clinical information were conducted at regular intervals, and associations between seroconversion and these variables were investigated.ResultsAfter the initial wave from June to September 2009, second and third waves occurred from November 2009 to February 2010 and April to June 2010, respectively. Seroconversion was 13·5% during the first wave and decreased to 6·2% and 6·8% in subsequent waves. Across the three waves, the elderly and those with higher starting HI titres were at lower risk of seroconversion, while those with larger households were at greater risk. Those with higher starting HI titres were also less likely to have an acute respiratory infection.ConclusionsThe second and third waves in Singapore had lower serological attack rates than the first wave. The elderly and those with higher HI titres had lower risk, while those in larger households had higher risk of seroconversion.
An economic analysis of repositioning for the prevention of pressure ulcers
Authors: Moore Zena , Cowman Seamus , Posnett John 
Published: July 2013

Aims and objectivesTo compare pressure ulcer incidence and costs associated with repositioning older individuals in long‐term care using two different repositioning regimes.BackgroundRepositioning has not always been integrated into pressure ulcer preventative methods, with arguments that it is an expensive procedure in terms of personnel and time.DesignParticipants were randomly allocated to the experimental group (n = 99; repositioned every 3 hours, using the 30° tilt) and the control group (n = 114 standard care, repositioned every 6 hours, using the 90° lateral rotation). The analysis explored the incidence of pressure ulcer development and the cost difference between the two repositioning schedules, over a 4‐week period.ResultsThe mean daily nurse time for repositioning was 18·5 minutes (experimental) and 24·5 minutes (control). Nurse time cost per patient over the study period was €206·6 (experimental) and €253·1 (control), 96·6% of participants (experimental) remained free of pressure ulcers, compared with 88·1% (control). The cost per patient free of ulcer was €213·9 (experimental) and €287·3 (control). Projected annual costs were estimated for the 588 (53·5%) residents in the 12 study sites requiring repositioning. The cost would be €1·59 m (experimental) and €2·10 m (control), a cost difference of €510,000. This represents a difference of 58·8 hours of nurse time, equivalent to approximately 12 full time nurses across the 12 sites.ConclusionRepositioning every 3 hours, using 30° tilt, has been shown to be more effective in less costly in terms of nurse time compared with standard care.Relevance to clinical practiceRepositioning individuals at risk of pressure ulcer development makes both economic and clinical sense, thereby supporting the EPUAP/NPUAP 2009 guidelines.
Screening physical health? Yes! But…: nurses’ views on physical health screening in mental health care
Authors: Happell Brenda , Scott David , Nankivell Janette , Platania‐Phung Chris 
Published: July 2013

Aims and objectivesTo explore nurses’ views on the role of nurses in screening and monitoring for physical care of consumers with serious mental illness, at a regional mental health care service.BackgroundPeople with serious mental illness experience heightened incidence of preventable and treatable physical illnesses such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Screening and monitoring are considered universal clinical safeguards. Nurses can potentially facilitate systematic screening, but their views on physical health care practices are rarely investigated.DesignQualitative exploratory study.MethodFocus group interviews with 38 nurses of a regional mental health care service district of Australia. To facilitate discussion, participants were presented with a screening system, called the Health Improvement Profile (HIP), as an exemplar of screening of physical health risks by nurses. Inductive data analysis and theme development were guided by a thematic analysis framework.ResultsNurses argued that treatable and preventable physical health problems were common. Four main themes were identified: screening – essential for good practice; the policy‐practice gap; ‘screening then what?’ and, is HIP the answer? Screening and monitoring were considered crucial to proper diagnosis and treatment, however, were not performed systematically or consistently. Nurse readiness for an enhanced role in screening was shaped by: role and responsibility issues, legal liability concerns, funding and staff shortages. Participants were concerned that lack of follow up would limit effectiveness of these interventions.ConclusionsScreening was considered an important clinical step in effective diagnosis and treatment; however, identified barriers need to be addressed to ensure screening is part of a systemic approach to improve physical health of consumers with serious mental illness.Relevance to clinical practiceNurses have potential to influence improvement in physical health outcomes for consumers of mental health services. Such potential can only be realised if a systematic approach to physical health care is taken.
The meta‐regulation of European industrial relations: Power shifts, institutional dynamics and the emergence of regulatory competition
Authors: PAPADOPOULOS Theodoros , ROUMPAKIS Antonios 
Published: July 2013

Abstract.“Meta‐regulation” describes the transnational governance of industrial relations emerging from attempts to resolve conflicts between national collective agreements and EU Member States' freedom to provide services and post workers abroad. The norm underpinning such meta‐regulation is competition, not only between workers from different EU Member States but also between States' labour regulations. Using the concepts of “structural power” and “social field”, the authors discuss judicial decisions that illustrate the gradual meta‐regulation of industrial relations in the EU and show how the power asymmetry between labour and capital is growing in favour of the latter.
Liver fibrosis progression is uncommon in patients with inactive chronic hepatitis B: A prospective cohort study with paired transient elastography examination
Authors: Wong Grace Lai‐Hung , Chan Henry Lik‐Yuen , Yu Zhuo , Chan Hoi‐Yun , Tse Chi‐Hang , Wong Vincent Wai‐Sun 
Published: July 2013

AbstractBackground and AimsThe European Association for the Study of the Liver (EASL) defines the inactive hepatitis B virus (HBV) carrier state based on HBV DNA and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels. This study aimed to evaluate the risk of disease progression in such patients.MethodsThree hundred sixty‐one patients negative for hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg) with HBV DNA levels < 20 000 IU/mL and normal ALT and without advanced fibrosis at baseline underwent liver stiffness measurement (LSM) by transient elastography between 2006 and 2008 and again between 2010 and 2012. Liver fibrosis progression was defined as an increase in LSM by 30% or more at the second assessment to levels suggestive of advanced fibrosis.ResultsAt baseline, the mean age was 48 ± 11 years and 51% were males; ALT level was 28 ± 11 IU/L, HBV DNA level was 2.7 ± 1.0 log10 IU/mL, and LSM was 5.4 ± 1.5 kPa. After an interval of 44 ± 7 months, liver fibrosis progression was observed in 10 (2.8%) patients, and 49 (13.6%) started antiviral therapy. Gender, age, and levels of ALT, HBV DNA, and HBsAg were shown not to be associated with liver fibrosis progression. Among 244 patients with baseline HBV DNA < 2000 IU/mL, 2.9% had liver fibrosis progression, 8.2% started antiviral therapy, and 4.1% had HBV DNA ≥ 20 000 IU/mL during follow‐up. Corresponding figures in 117 patients with baseline HBV DNA levels of 2000–20 000 IU/mL were 2.6%, 24.8%, and 7.7%, respectively (P = 1.0, < 0.001 and = 0.21 respectively).ConclusionsLiver fibrosis progression within 3–4 years is rare in HBeAg‐negative patients with HBV DNA <20 000 IU/mL and normal ALT, but a significant proportion of patients develop treatment indications during follow‐up. The study supports the EASL's definition of inactive carriers and its recommendation of regular monitoring.
Factors impacting treatment outcomes in the endoscopic management of walled‐off pancreatic necrosis
Authors: Bang Ji Young , Wilcox C Mel , Trevino Jessica , Ramesh Jayapal , Peter Shajan , Hasan Muhammad , Hawes Robert H. , Varadarajulu Shyam 
Published: July 2013

AbstractBackgroundTreatment outcomes are suboptimal for patients undergoing endoscopic treatment of walled‐off pancreatic necrosis (WOPN). The objective of this study is to identify factors that impact treatment outcomes in this patient subset.MethodsThis is a retrospective study of patients with WOPN treated endoscopically over 10 years. Patients underwent placement of stents and nasocystic catheters within the necrotic cavity. In select patients, the multiple transluminal gateway technique (MTGT) was adopted to create several openings in the stomach or duodenum to facilitate drainage of necrosis. In patients with disconnected pancreatic duct syndrome (DPDS), the transmural stents were left in place indefinitely to decrease pancreatic fluid collection (PFC) recurrence.ResultsEndoscopic treatment was successful in 53 of 76 (69.7%) patients. Treatment success was higher in patients undergoing MTGT than in those in whom conventional drainage was used (94.4% vs 62.1%, P = 0.009). On multivariate logistic regression analysis, only MTGT (OR 15.8, 95% CI 1.77–140.8; P = 0.01) and fewer endoscopic sessions being needed (OR 4.0, 95% CI 1.16–14.0; P = 0.03) predicted treatment success. PFC recurrence was significantly lower in patients with indwelling transmural stents than in patients in whom the stents were removed (0 vs 20.8%; P = 0.02).ConclusionsCreating multiple gateways for drainage of necrotic debris improves treatment success, and not removing the transmural stents decreases PFC recurrence in patients undergoing endoscopic drainage of WOPN.
Prevalence and determinants of gastroesophageal reflux symptoms in adolescents
Authors: Chen Jiann‐Hwa , Wang Hsin‐Yi , Lin Hans Hsienhong , Wang Chia‐Chi , Wang Li‐Yu 
Published: July 2013

AbstractBackground and AimsGastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is common in adults, and there are increasing secular trends in adult GERD morbidity in many countries. However, population‐based study on adolescent GERD was very limited. The specific aims of the study were to explore the prevalence and determinant of GERD symptoms in adolescents.MethodsA population‐based association study was performed on 1828 students aged 13–16 years from four public junior high schools in Taiwan. The presences of symptoms of GERD, asthma and food allergy, demographic characteristics, and health behaviors were obtained by structured questionnaires.ResultsComplete information of symptoms of GERD and asthma were available for 1745 (95.5%) students. The cumulative and 3‐month prevalence rates of GERD symptoms were 20.5% and 8.9%, respectively. Multivariate‐adjusted odds ratio of having experienced GERD symptoms were 1.53 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.18–1.98) for ever smoking, 1.52 (95% CI: 1.12–2.26) for bi‐ethnicity, 1.70 (95% CI: 1.26–2.29) for food allergy, and 3.59 (95% CI: 2.69–4.82) and 2.43 (95% CI: 1.67–3.53) for having asthma attacks within or more than 1 year before, respectively. Similar results were found for 3‐month prevalence.ConclusionsThe study showed that GERD symptoms were frequent in junior high school students in Taiwan. Food allergy, asthma, and cigarette smoking were independently correlated with the prevalence of GERD symptoms. Psychosocial factors associated with bi‐ethnic family may contribute to its development.
Investigating tendon mineralisation in the avian hindlimb: a model for tendon ageing, injury and disease
Authors: Agabalyan Natacha A. , Evans Darrell J. R. , Stanley Rachael L. 
Published: July 2013

AbstractMineralisation of the tendon tissue has been described in various models of injury, ageing and disease. Often resulting in painful and debilitating conditions, the processes underlying this mechanism are poorly understood. To elucidate the progression from healthy tendon to mineralised tendon, an appropriate model is required. In this study, we describe the spontaneous and non‐pathological ossification and calcification of tendons of the hindlimb of the domestic chicken (Gallus gallus domesticus). The appearance of the ossified avian tendon has been described previously, although there have been no studies investigating the developmental processes and underlying mechanisms leading to the ossified avian tendon. The tissue and cells from three tendons – the ossifying extensor and flexor digitorum longus tendons and the non‐ossifying Achilles tendon – were analysed for markers of ageing and mineralisation using histology, immunohistochemistry, cytochemistry and molecular analysis. Histologically, the adult tissue showed a loss of healthy tendon crimp morphology as well as markers of calcium deposits and mineralisation. The tissue showed a lowered expression of collagens inherent to the tendon extracellular matrix and presented proteins expressed by bone. The cells from the ossified tendons showed a chondrogenic and osteogenic phenotype as well as tenogenic phenotype and expressed the same markers of ossification and calcification as the tissue. A molecular analysis of the gene expression of the cells confirmed these results. Tendon ossification within the ossified avian tendon seems to be the result of an endochondral process driven by its cells, although the roles of the different cell populations have yet to be elucidated. Understanding the role of the tenocyte within this tissue and the process behind tendon ossification may help us prevent or treat ossification that occurs in injured, ageing or diseased tendon.
Nurses' knowledge of chest drain management in an Irish Children's Hospital
Authors: Magner Claire , Houghton Catherine , Craig Margie , Cowman Seamus 
Published: July 2013

Aims and objectivesTo explore contact with and knowledge regarding chest drain management among nurses.BackgroundChest drains are commonly used in both adult and paediatric settings, for example, for cardiothoracic patients or postspinal surgery, where they are inserted intra‐operatively to drain excess fluid. Despite a large number of children requiring chest drain insertion annually, current literature suggests that many nurses have reduced contact with chest drains and a knowledge deficit regarding their management. Furthermore, the literature is limited in relation to chest drain management in the paediatric patient. Mismanagement of chest drains can have devastating consequences for patients.DesignA standardised descriptive survey approach was employed.MethodsThe sample consisted of 121 critical care and ward nurses from a large urban paediatric hospital, who cared for chest drains on a regular basis. Data were collected using a 37‐item questionnaire, adapted from a study in the adult setting. Statistical analysis was performed using spss V15.ResultsThe findings demonstrate that increased exposure to caring for children with chest drains is synonymous with a greater perception of knowledge levels in this area of practice. While critical care nurses looked after children with chest drains more frequently than ward nurses, there was no difference in the knowledge assessment section of the questionnaire. This research identified where knowledge deficits exist.ConclusionsThis study identified the key areas where overall uncertainties existed leading to a decreased knowledge perception. Nurses are engaging with methods of knowledge acquisition; however, those who have less contact with chest drains require regular updates.Relevance to clinical practiceAddressing misconceptions about chest drain management is imperative. Providing up to date guidelines in clinical areas will improve chest drain management. Strategic educational initiatives are in place to ensure identified knowledge deficits are addressed and a complete revision of chest drain guidelines has been undertaken.
Somatic symptoms, psychological distress and sleep disturbance among infertile women with intrauterine insemination treatment
Authors: Lin Jia‐Ling , Lin Ya‐Hui , Chueh Ke‐Hsin 
Published: July 2013

Aims and objectivesTo explore sleep quality in infertile women and examine the factors that contribute to sleep disturbances during intrauterine insemination treatment.BackgroundSleep disturbance is an important factor of human health and well‐being. Sleep disturbances tend to occur among infertile women during intrauterine insemination treatment. Although many studies have focused on the high percentage of somatic symptoms and psychological distress in infertile women associated with their treatment, few studies have investigated factors linked to their sleep disturbances.DesignA cross‐sectional study.MethodsThe study was conducted during the period of September 2010–January 2011 in a teaching hospital in Taiwan. Infertile women (n = 117) who received assisted reproduction with intrauterine insemination treatment completed a questionnaire. Demographic data, somatic symptoms, psychological distress and perceived sleep quality were collected.ResultsMore than one‐third (35%) of the infertile women reported having sleep disturbances. Their nausea symptoms and psychological distress were risk factors that contributed to sleep disturbance.ConclusionsThe variables of nausea and psychological distress significantly explained 30% of the sleep disturbances in the infertile women. The evaluation of nausea symptoms and/or psychological distress among infertile women is an important area of future research; such research should aim to identify the best compromise between infertility treatment and sleep quality.Relevance to clinical practiceClinical obstetrics and gynaecology nurses should develop strategies to help infertile women reduce their nausea symptoms and psychological distress during intrauterine insemination treatment to promote healthy sleep.
Adaptation to Temporal Shocks: Influences of Strategic Interpretation and Spatial Distance
Authors: Pérez‐Nordtvedt Liliana , Khavul Susanna , Harrison David A. , McGee Jeffrey E. 
Published: July 2013

AbstractEven when shocks in a firm's environment are predictable, their consequences are not. Using the relocation of theDallasCowboysStadium as a rich case of such a disruption, we investigate how combinations of strategic interpretation and spatial distance influence incumbent business owners' decisions to pursuetemporal adaptationas a response. Temporal adaptation (TA) comprisestimingrather thancontentchanges by the firm seeking to adjust to the reconfigured environment. Survey data from 168 business owners show that strategic interpretation directly influencesTAdecisions. However, the effect of strategic interpretation on theTAdecision is moderated by the spatial (geographic) distance of the incumbent firm from the locus of the disruption. Furthermore, results suggest that through strategic interpretation, spatial distance also indirectly affects the business owners' decisions to make temporal changes. Data collected 1.5 and 4 years later suggest thatTAresponses are related to performance and may be indicative of a particular type ofTA, organizational entrainment (OE), which concerns the synchronization of organizational activity cycles with cycles in the environment.
Isoniazid-gelatin conjugate microparticles containing rifampicin for the treatment of tuberculosis
Authors: Manca Maria L , Cassano Roberta , Valenti Donatella , Trombino Sonia , Ferrarelli Teresa , Picci Nevio , Fadda Anna M , Manconi Maria 
Published: July 2013

Abstract

Objectives
In this work, a new polymeric microparticle system based on gelatin covalently bound to isoniazid (ISN) and containing rifampicin (RFP) was prepared by spray-drying technique. Microparticle aptitude to nebulisation and their capability of interacting with A549, alveolar basal epithelial cells, were evaluated in vitro.

Methods
Microparticles were obtained by spray drying, and their morphology, size, zeta potential, thermotropic behaviour and nebulisation ability were evaluated.

Key findings
Microparticles were positively charged with a mean size of 4.88 ± 0.3 μm. Microspheres were able to incorporate both RFP and ISN: encapsulation efficiency was 51 ± 6% and 22 ± 1%, respectively. X-ray diffraction study showed a new extensive and flattened diffraction peak providing evidence that the drugs were dispersed into the microparticles. Differential scanning calorimetry analysis confirmed effective interactions between gelatin and drug molecules by the presence of new transition peaks. Fifty-nine per cent of used microparticles were aerosolised. In-vitro toxicity studies on A549 alveolar basal epithelial cells showed that microparticles decreased cytotoxicity in comparison with the RFP solution. Laser scanning confocal microscopy observation confirmed that fluorescent probes delivered by microparticles are efficiently internalised in A549 cells.

Conclusions
Overall, microparticles based on gelatin covalently bound to ISN and containing RFP showed a promising behaviour for pulmonary drug delivery.