bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Criterion‐Related Validity of Challenging Behaviour Scales: A Review of Evidence in the Literature
Authors: Turton Raistrick W. 
Published: May 2014

BackgroundBehaviour that challenges has negative impacts on physical and emotional well‐being and quality of life. Challenging behaviour scales are used to identify needs and evaluate interventions and must be valid measures. Criterion‐related validity is important, and the best quality assessment uses direct measures of behaviour as criteria. Previous reviews of scales affirm their validity but present little supporting evidence. The current review examines the evidence presented in studies of validity.MethodsSearches of MEDLINE and PsycINFO to identify scales that focus on challenging behaviour and find publications that assess their criterion‐related validity.ResultsSearches identified twelve scales and 21 publications that assess validity. One assessment used direct measures of behaviour, and the remainder used indirect measures that themselves have limited evidence of validity, including membership of diagnostic or service groups and other scales.ConclusionsLittle firm evidence of validity was found, but what was found is encouraging.
Social withdrawal in children moderates the association between parenting styles and the children's own socioemotional development
Authors: Zarra‐Nezhad Maryam , Kiuru Noona , Aunola Kaisa , Zarra‐Nezhad Mansour , Ahonen Timo , Poikkeus Anna‐Maija , Lerkkanen Marja‐Kristiina , Nurmi Jari‐Erik 
Published: May 2014

BackgroundSocial withdrawal in early childhood is a risk factor for later socioemotional difficulties. This study examined the joint effects of children's social withdrawal and mothers' and fathers' parenting styles on children's socioemotional development. Based on diatheses‐stress, vantage sensitivity, and differential susceptibility models, socially withdrawn children were assumed to be more prone to parental influences than others.MethodsTeachers rated 314 children on prosocial skills, and internalizing and externalizing behaviors at three points in time between grades 1–3. Mothers (n = 279) and fathers (n = 182) filled in questionnaires measuring their affection, and their behavioral and psychological control at the same points in time. Teacher reports on children's level of social withdrawal were obtained at the end of kindergarten.ResultsPanel analysis showed that particularly those children who showed signs of social withdrawal were vulnerable to the negative effects of low maternal affection in terms of externalizing behavior. Moreover, among these children, mothers' and fathers' psychological control predicted high levels of internalizing problem but, at the same time, mothers' psychological control predicted also a high level of prosocial behavior and low levels of externalizing problem.ConclusionsThe results supported the diathesis–stress model more than the differential susceptibility model. For example, socially withdrawn children were found to be particularly vulnerable to the negative effects of low maternal affection. Although maternal psychological control had positive effects on the prosocial skills of socially withdrawn children, and reduced the amount of externalizing problems, it was at the same time associated with an increase in their internalizing problems. In this way, socially withdrawn children seem to be at risk of pleasing their mothers at the cost of their own well‐being.
Predictors of the onset of depression in young children: a multi‐method, multi‐informant longitudinal study from ages 3 to 6
Authors: Bufferd Sara J. , Dougherty Lea R. , Olino Thomas M. , Dyson Margaret W. , Laptook Rebecca S. , Carlson Gabrielle A. , Klein Daniel N. 
Published: May 2014

BackgroundDespite growing interest in depression in young children, little is known about which variables predict the onset of depression in early childhood. We examined a range of predictors of the onset of depression diagnoses in a multi‐method, multi‐informant longitudinal study of a large community sample of young children from ages 3 to 6.MethodsPredictors of the onset of depression at age 6 were drawn from five domains assessed when children were 3 years old: child psychopathology (assessed using a parent diagnostic interview), observed child temperament, teacher ratings of peer functioning, parental psychopathology (assessed using a diagnostic interview), and psychosocial environment (observed parental hostility, parent‐reported family stressors, parental education).ResultsA number of variables predicted the onset of depression by age 6, including child history of anxiety disorders, child temperamental low inhibitory control, poor peer functioning, parental history of mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, early and recent stressful life events, and less parental education.ConclusionsPredictors of the onset of depression in early childhood tend to be similar to those identified in older youth and adults, and support the feasibility of identifying children in greatest need for early intervention.
Evaluation of health research capacity strengthening trainings on individual level: validation of a questionnaire
Authors: Huber Johanna , Bauer Daniel , Hoelscher Michael , Kapungu Jerry , Kroidl Arne , Lennemann Tessa , Maganga Lucas , Opitz Oliver , Salehe Omari , Sigauke Abbie , Fischer Martin R. , Kiessling Claudia 
Published: May 2014

AbstractRationale, aims and objectivesIn the field of global health, research capacity strengthening is becoming a common concept for defining and improving research competencies on individual, organizational, national and supranational level. However, HRCS activities often lack evaluation procedures to measure their impact and to ensure their quality. The aim of this study was to develop and validate a short questionnaire to evaluate trainings in the field of health research capacity strengthening (HRCS).MethodThe questionnaire was developed by an interdisciplinary research team and tested in four different training settings at the Mbeya Medical Research Center and Mbeya Referral Hospital, Tanzania. Construct validity of the questionnaire was tested based on 97 responses of the participants of four trainings.ResultsIterative checking of Cronbach's alpha of the subscales and exploratory factor analysis revealed a four‐factor solution that differed from the original structure and subscales of the questionnaire. The instrument was adapted accordingly and consists now of four subscales with 19 items, three global impression items, and open questions for participants’ comments and recommendations.ConclusionsThe result of the study is a short, validated questionnaire for the evaluation of HRCS trainings on the individual level. The tool can be applied both to measure the short‐term effects of international health research capacity trainings and to ensure their quality. In the future, after collecting larger sample sizes, a confirmatory factor analysis should be done to further support the four factors.
Pain treatment facilities: do we need quantity or quality?
Authors: de Meij Nelleke , Köke Albère , van der Weijden Trudy , van Kleef Maarten , Patijn Jacob 
Published: May 2014

AbstractRationale, aims and objectivesChronic pain patients referred to a pain treatment facility have no guarantee that they will receive a proper diagnostic procedure or treatment. To obtain information about organizational aspects of pain treatment facilities and the content of their daily pain practice, we performed a questionnaire survey. The aim of the study was to evaluate the amount of pain treatment facilities, the content of organized specialized pain care and adherence to the criteria of the internationally accepted guidelines for pain treatment services.MethodThe University Pain Centre Maastricht in the Department of Anaesthesiology and Pain Management at Maastricht University Medical Centre developed a questionnaire survey based on the Recommendations for Pain Treatment Services of the International Association for the Study of Pain (IASP). The questionnaire was sent to the medical boards of all hospitals in the Netherlands (n = 94).ResultsThe response rate was 86% (n = 81). Of all hospitals, 88.9% (n = 72) reported the provision of organized specialized pain care, which was provided by a pain management team in 86.1% (n = 62) and by an individual specialist in 13.9% (n = 10). Insight was obtained from pain treatment facilities in five different domains: the organizational structure of pain management, composition of the pain team, pain team practice, patient characteristics, and research and education facilities.ConclusionAlthough 88.9% of all hospitals stated that organized specialized pain care was provided, only a few hospitals could adhere to the criteria for pain treatment services of the IASP. The outcome of the questionnaire survey may help to define quality improvement standards for pain treatment facilities.
An update and further testing of a knowledge‐based diagnostic clinical decision support system for musculoskeletal disorders of the shoulder for use in a primary care setting
Authors: Farmer Nicholas 
Published: May 2014

AbstractRationale, aims and objectivesA prototype diagnostic clinical decision support system (CDSS) was developed to assist primary care clinicians (general practitioners) in clinical decision making, aimed at reducing diagnostic errors. The prototype CDSS showed some promise with high levels of validity and reliability; however, issues regarding the underlying Bayesian belief network (BBN), small sample size and use of radiological imaging as a gold standard measure were highlighted that required further investigation before considering clinical testing.MethodsThe prototype CDSS was reviewed and updated based on computer science literature and expert (orthopaedic consultant) opinion. The updated CDSS was tested by comparing its diagnostic outcome against the diagnosis of 93 case studies as determined by expert opinion combined with arthroscopy findings or radiological imaging.ResultsThe updated CDSS showed significant high levels of sensitivity (91%), specificity (98%), positive likelihood ratio (53.12) and negative likelihood ratio (0.08) with a kappa value of 0.88 to a confidence level of 99% compared with expert diagnosis combined with arthroscopy findings or radiological imaging.ConclusionsThe results suggest that the updated CDSS has addressed the issues highlighted from the initial research while maintaining high levels of validity and reliability. The updated CDSS is now ready for clinical testing.
Quality improvement of metabolic control for patients with type 2 diabetes treated at a general hospital: a quantitative open cohort study
Authors: von Eyben Finn Edler 
Published: May 2014

AbstractRationale, aims and objectivesMost patients with type 2 diabetes have metabolic risk factors above recommend goals. The present intervention aimed to escalate medical treatment to improve metabolic control. The study was carried out at a Norwegian general hospital as a quantitative open cohort study.MethodsThe audit evaluated 191 patients treated from 2007 to 2012. To improve metabolic control, a medical intervention used stepped care and goals for the metabolic risk factors. A database was used to overview the intervention. Multiple regression analyses assessed whether baseline characteristics and components of the intervention were associated with change of metabolic risk factors.ResultsThe intervention increased number of antihypertensive drugs and dose of metformin and insulin. The intensification lowered mean systolic blood pressure from 142 to 132 mmHg, low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol from 2.6 to 2.1 mmol L–1 and glycated haemoglobin, HbA1c, from 8.5 to 7.6% (64–57 mmol mol–1, P < 0.001, t‐tests). At end of the study, 25 (13%) patients fulfilled targets for the three metabolic risk factors. Multiple linear regression analyses showed that changes of the three metabolic risk factors were significantly associated with levels at start of the study and number of visits or length of follow‐up.ConclusionsStepped care was an effective treatment for type 2 diabetes at a general hospital. The database supported the intervention. It improved metabolic control over 4 years.
The feasibility of e‐learning as a quality improvement tool
Authors: Kobewka Daniel , Backman Chantal , Hendry Paul , Hamstra Stanley J. , Suh Kathryn N. , Code Catherine , Forster Alan J. 
Published: May 2014

AbstractRational, aims and objectives Many quality problems exist in health care. We aim to investigate the feasibility and acceptability of using e‐learning (defined as computer‐based learning modules) to address gaps in quality of care.MethodsWe performed a qualitative evaluation of participants in a pilot e‐learning program. Physician members of six medical teaching units (MTUs) at a multi‐site tertiary care teaching hospital were asked to complete two e‐learning modules addressing hand hygiene practices and management of community‐acquired pneumonia (CAP). An e‐learning design team created online modules that were made available to members of the six MTUs for 4 weeks using a password secured website. Use of the modules was voluntary. Participants' perceptions of module content, mode of delivery, and suggestions for improvement were determined through focus groups. We then performed content analysis on the transcripts. We used system data to define patterns of module access.ResultsOut of 55 eligible users, 30 (55%) logged onto the system at least once. Residents (14/30, 47%) were less likely to use the system than medical students (9/14, 64%) and attending staff (7/11, 64%). Learners at all levels thought the modules were easy to use. Participants liked the knowledge‐based material in the CAP module because it directly applied to their work. There were less favourable opinions of the hand hygiene moduleConclusionsGenerating e‐learning modules targeted at gaps in quality of care is feasible and acceptable to learners. Future studies should assess whether these approaches lead to desired changes in behavior.
Effects of Some Plant Extracts on the Oxidative Stability of Canola Oil and Its Purified Triacylglycerols
Authors: Turan Semra 
Published: May 2014

AbstractIn this study, the effects of rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis L.), thyme (Thymus vulgaris L.), sage (Salvia officinalis L.) and bay (Laurus nobilis) extracts on the oxidative stability of canola oil and its purified triacylglycerols (TAGs) were studied. The effects of extraction solvents (methanol, ethanol and acetone) on the extraction yields, phenolic contents and antioxidant activities of these plant extracts were also determined. Methanol extracts had the highest total phenolics (78.4–177.4 mg gallic acid equivalent/g extracts), with the exception of thyme extract. In linoleic acid emulsion, antioxidant activities of all plant extracts were above 89.7% at the studied concentrations. The highest 2,2′‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging activities were found for methanol extracts. There was no significant difference between induction periods of canola oils supplemented with ethanol, methanol or acetone extracts of rosemary, thyme and bay (P > 0.05) in differential scanning calorimeter. Protection factors of rosemary and thyme extracts were higher than those of the sage and bay extracts in canola oil and its purified TAGs in Rancimat test.Practical ApplicationsRosemary, sage, thyme and bay extracts had high antioxidant and antiradical activities. They contain many bioactive components such as, carnosic acid, carnosol, methyl carnosate, rosmarinic acid, rosmanol, thymol, carvacrol and hydroxycinnamic acid. In addition to this, when the rosemary and thyme extracts were added into canola oil, they increased induction period of oil. These herbal extracts can be incorporated into oils or lipid‐containing foods to prevent oxidation.
Cell‐death assessment by fluorescent and nonfluorescent cytosolic and nuclear staining techniques
Authors: ATALE N. , GUPTA S. , YADAV U.C.S. , RANI V. 
Published: May 2014

SummaryApoptosis, a genetically programmed cellular event leads to biochemical and morphological changes in cells. Alterations in DNA caused by several factors affect nucleus and ultimately the entire cell leading to compromised function of the organ and organism. DNA, a master regulator of the cellular events, is an important biomolecule with regards to cell growth, cell death, cell migration and cell differentiation. It is therefore imperative to develop the staining techniques that may lead to visualize the changes in nucleus where DNA is housed, to comprehend the cellular pathophysiology. Over the years a number of nuclear staining techniques such as propidium iodide, Hoechst‐33342, 4’, 6‐diamidino‐2‐phenylindole (DAPI), Acridine orange–Ethidium bromide staining, among others have been developed to assess the changes in DNA. Some nonnuclear staining techniques such as Annexin‐V staining, which although does not stain DNA, but helps to identify the events that result from DNA alteration and leads to initiation of apoptotic cell death. In this review, we have briefly discussed some of the most commonly used fluorescent and nonfluorescent staining techniques that identify apoptotic changes in cell, DNA and the nucleus. These techniques help in differentiating several cellular and nuclear phenotypes that result from DNA damage and have been identified as specific to necrosis or early and late apoptosis as well as scores of other nuclear deformities occurring inside the cells.
Variable multimodal light microscopy with interference contrast and phase contrast; dark or bright field
Authors: PIPER T. , PIPER J. 
Published: May 2014

SummaryUsing the optical methods described, specimens can be observed with modified multimodal light microscopes based on interference contrast combined with phase contrast, dark‐ or bright‐field illumination. Thus, the particular visual information associated with interference and phase contrast, dark‐ and bright‐field illumination is joined in real‐time composite images appearing in enhanced clarity and purified from typical artefacts, which are apparent in standard phase contrast and dark‐field illumination. In particular, haloing and shade‐off are absent or significantly reduced as well as marginal blooming and scattering. The background brightness and thus the range of contrast can be continuously modulated and variable transitions can be achieved between interference contrast and complementary illumination techniques. The methods reported should be of general interest for all disciplines using phase and interference contrast microscopy, especially in biology and medicine, and also in material sciences when implemented in vertical illuminators.
Colostrogenesis during an induced lactation in dairy cattle
Authors: Stark A. , Wellnitz O. , Dechow C. , Bruckmaier R. , Baumrucker C. 
Published: May 2014

SummaryColostrum immunoglobulin G (IgG) is of major importance for the newborn calf because epitheliochorial placentae do not provide transport in utero. The formation of colostrum occurs in the later stages of pregnancy. Our objectives were to induce lactation in non‐pregnant dairy cows and (i) to determine the changes of IgG in serum and mammary secretions during the induction process and (ii) to establish α‐lactalbumin (αLA) and prolactin (Prl) alterations to monitor the changing mammary epithelial tight junction status and development pattern. Estradiol‐17β (E2) and progesterone (P4) injections in a 1–7 days series were combined with a 3‐day injection series (day 21–23) of dexamethasone (DEX). Blood and both front quarter secretion samples were collected daily. Milking started 24 days after the start of the experiment. Results show that the mammary secretory IgG1 was increased at >7 days after the start of steroid injections and depicted a bimodal pattern reaching a high of 16 mg/ml at 21 day compared with 3.2 mg/ml in the serum. There was a small increase in secretory IgG2 that did not correlate with tight junction status, but never reached the serum concentration. The injections of DEX resulted in constriction of tight junctions. Secretory αLA was immediately increased with steroid injections, dropped precipitously after 7 days and then began a steady increase until the start of milking. Changes in serum αLA are related to mammary tight junctions while serum Prl gradually increased from 30 to >60 ng/ml after the steroid injections stopped. These results provide insights into the mechanisms and timing of colostrogenesis during an induced lactation protocol.
Pegylated interferons Lambda‐1a and alfa‐2a display different gene induction and cytokine and chemokine release profiles in whole blood, human hepatocytes and peripheral blood mononuclear cells
Authors: Freeman J. , Baglino S. , Friborg J. , Kraft Z. , Gray T. , Hill M. , McPhee F. , Hillson J. , Lopez‐Talavera J. C. , Wind‐Rotolo M. 
Published: May 2014

SummaryPegylated interferon‐lambda‐1a (Lambda), a type III interferon (IFN) in clinical development for the treatment of chronic HCV infection, has shown comparable efficacy and an improved safety profile to a regimen based on pegylated IFN alfa‐2a (alfa). To establish a mechanistic context for this improved profile, we investigated the ex vivo effects of Lambda and alfa on cytokine and chemokine release, and on expression of IFN‐stimulated genes (ISGs) in primary human hepatocytes and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from healthy subjects. Our findings were further compared with changes observed in blood analysed from HCV‐infected patients treated with Lambda or alfa in clinical studies. mRNA transcript and protein expression of the IFN‐λ‐limiting receptor subunit was lower compared with IFN‐α receptor subunits in all cell types. Upon stimulation, alfa and Lambda induced ISG expression in hepatocytes and PBMCs, although in PBMCs Lambda‐induced ISG expression was modest. Furthermore, alfa and Lambda induced release of cytokines and chemokines from hepatocytes and PBMCs, although differences in their kinetics of induction were observed. In HCV‐infected patients, alfa treatment induced ISG expression in whole blood after single and repeat dosing. Lambda treatment induced modest ISG expression after single dosing and showed no induction after repeat dosing. Alfa and Lambda treatment increased IP‐10, iTAC, IL‐6, MCP‐1 and MIP‐1β levels in serum, with alfa inducing higher levels of all mediators compared with Lambda. Overall, ex vivo and in vivo induction profiles reported in this analysis strongly correlate with clinical observations of fewer related adverse events for Lambda vs those typically associated with alfa.