bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Saccadic foraging: reduced reaction time to informative targets
Authors: Bray T. J. P. , Carpenter R. H. S. 
Published: February 2015

AbstractThe study of saccadic reaction times has revealed a great deal about the neural mechanisms underlying neural decision, in terms ofBayesian factors such as prior probability and information supply. In addition, recent work has shown that saccades are faster to visual targets associated with conventional monetary or food rewards. However, because the purpose of saccades is to acquire information, it could be argued that this is an unnatural situation: the most natural and fundamental reward is the amount of information supplied by a target. Here, we report the results of a study investigating the hypothesis that a saccade to a target whose colour provides information about the location of a subsequent target is faster than to one that does not. We show that the latencies of saccades to a location that provides reliable information about the location of a future target are indeed shorter, their distributions being shifted in a way that implies that the rate of rise of the underlying decision signal is increased. In a race between alternative targets, this means that expected information will be an important factor in deciding where to look, so that ‘foraging’ saccades are more likely to be made to useful targets.
Zinc: indications in brain disorders
Authors: Prakash Atish , Bharti Kanchan , Majeed Abu Bakar A. 
Published: February 2015

AbstractZinc is the authoritative metal which is present in our body, and reactive zinc metal is crucial for neuronal signaling and is largely distributed within presynaptic vesicles. Zinc also plays an important role in synaptic function. At cellular level, zinc is a modulator of synaptic activity and neuronal plasticity in both development and adulthood. Different importers and transporters are involved in zinc homeostasis. ZnT‐3 is a main transporter involved in zinc homeostasis in the brain. It has been found that alterations in brain zinc status have been implicated in a wide range of neurological disorders including impaired brain development and many neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's disease, and mood disorders including depression, Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and prion disease. Furthermore, zinc has also been implicated in neuronal damage associated with traumatic brain injury, stroke, and seizure. Understanding the mechanisms that control brain zinc homeostasis is thus critical to the development of preventive and treatment strategies for these and other neurological disorders.
Opioid receptor delta as a global modulator of skin differentiation and barrier function repair
Authors: Chajra H. , Amstutz B. , Schweikert K. , Auriol D. , Redziniak G. , Lefèvre F. 
Published: February 2015

SynopsisObjectivesThe aims of this study were to confirm the properties of selective agonist peptide (Rubixyl) contained in the spinach towards opioid receptor delta. In fact, agonist properties of both spinach peptides (Rubiscolin‐5 and Rubixyl) towards opioid receptor delta were demonstrated by Zang et al., but their effects on the other opioid receptors were not studied [1]. We also studied the expression of opioid receptor delta in epidermis under normal and stress condition (inflammatory) and its role in epidermis homeostasis under stress condition in vitro and in vivo.MethodsAgonist properties studies were performed using functional agonist cellular model containing human opioid receptors.Opioid receptor delta expression and epidermis homeostasis were studied on human reconstructed epidermis under normal and stress conditions (inflammatory stress) using gene expression (RT‐qPCR) and protein expression analysis (immunohistological analysis).Skin repair properties of opioid receptor delta agonist were based on the following parameters TEWL (trans epidermal water loss, hydration and wrinkle depth at periocular and perilabial area) on human volunteers having either intrinsic ageing (more than 40 years old and non‐smoker group) and both intrinsic ageing and extrinsic ageing (more than 40 years old and smoker group).ResultsWe have demonstrated that the Rubixyl peptide is a specific agonist of opioid receptor delta. We have demonstrated that opioid receptor delta expression is modulated under inflammatory condition. The agonist Rubixyl was able to block the depletion of opioid receptor delta seen under inflammatory condition in reconstructed human epidermis.Inflammatory conditions lead to the unbalanced gene and protein expressions of markers involved in epidermis integrity and barrier function properties. The treatment of human reconstructed epidermis with the agonist Rubixyl leads to the normalization of unbalanced gene and protein expressions. In vivo study has confirmed the efficiency of the agonist Rubixyl to repair damaged skin by decreasing TEWL, increasing hydration and decreasing wrinkle depth at the periocular and perilabial area.ConclusionIn this research, we have demonstrated in vitro (on inflamed reconstructed human epidermis, RHE) and in vivo (on human aged volunteers) that activation by natural agonist peptide of opioid receptor delta reduces the skin inflammation thus leading to improvement in epidermis differentiation and skin barrier properties.
Comparison of in vivo dental pulp responses to capping with iRoot BP Plus and mineral trioxide aggregate
Authors: Shi S. , Bao Z. F. , Liu Y. , Zhang D. D. , Chen X. , Jiang L. M. , Zhong M. 
Published: February 2015

AbstractAimTo compare dental pulp responses to capping with iRoot BP Plus and mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) in dogs.MethodologyPulps in 36 incisors of three 8‐month‐old beagle dogs were mechanically exposed and assigned to two experimental groups (iRoot BP Plus group and MTA group, n = 15 per group) and one control group (n = 6). Direct pulp capping was performed using either iRoot BP Plus or MTA. The animals were sacrificed 3 months later. Histological sections were stained with haematoxylin and eosin and categorized using a histologic scoring system. Statistical analysis was performed using the Mann–Whitney U‐test, with the significance set at 0.05.ResultsThe majority of specimens in both experimental groups were associated with complete calcified bridge formation and the absence of pulpal inflammation. There was no significant difference in pulp response to iRoot BP Plus or MTA after 3 months (P > 0.05).ConclusioniRoot BP Plus and MTA had similar favourable results when used as pulp‐capping agents.
No evidence for MHC class I‐based disassortative mating in a wild population of great tits
Authors: Sepil I. , Radersma R. , Santure A. W. , De Cauwer I. , Slate J. , Sheldon B. C. 
Published: February 2015

AbstractGenes of the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) are regarded as a potentially important target of mate choice due to the fitness benefits that may be conferred to the offspring. According to the complementary genes hypothesis, females mate with MHC dissimilar males to enhance the immunocompetence of their offspring or to avoid inbreeding depression. Here, we investigate whether selection favours a preference for maximally dissimilar or optimally dissimilar MHC class I types, based on MHC genotypes, average amino acid distances and the functional properties of the antigen‐binding sites (MHC supertypes); and whether MHC type dissimilarity predicts relatedness between mates in a wild great tit population. In particular, we explore the role that MHC class I plays in female mate choice decisions while controlling for relatedness and spatial population structure, and examine the reproductive fitness consequences of MHC compatibility between mates. We find no evidence for the hypotheses that females select mates on the basis of either maximal or optimal MHC class I dissimilarity. A weak correlation between MHC supertype sharing and relatedness suggests that MHC dissimilarity at functional variants may not provide an effective index of relatedness. Moreover, the reproductive success of pairs did not vary with MHC dissimilarity. Our results provide no support for the suggestion that selection favours, or that mate choice realizes, a preference for complimentary MHC types.
Distribution, structure and biosynthetic gene families of (1,3;1,4)‐β‐glucan in Sorghum bicolor
Authors: Ermawar Riksfardini A. , Collins Helen M. , Byrt Caitlin S. , Betts Natalie S. , Henderson Marilyn , Shirley Neil J. , Schwerdt Julian , Lahnstein Jelle , Fincher Geoffrey B. , Burton Rachel A. 
Published: February 2015

AbstractIn cereals, the presence of soluble polysaccharides including (1,3;1,4)‐β‐glucan has downstream implications for human health, animal feed and biofuel applications. Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench is a versatile crop, but there are limited reports regarding the content of such soluble polysaccharides. Here, the amount of (1,3;1,4)‐β‐glucan present in sorghum tissues was measured using a Megazyme assay. Very low amounts were present in the grain, ranging from 0.16%–0.27% (w/w), while there was a greater quantity in vegetative tissues at 0.12–1.71% (w/w). The fine structure of (1,3;1,4)‐β‐glucan, as denoted by the ratio of cellotriosyl and cellotetraosyl residues, was assessed by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and ranged from 2.6–3:1 in the grain, while ratios in vegetative tissues were lower at 2.1–2.6:1. The distribution of (1,3;1,4)‐β‐glucan was examined using a specific antibody and observed with fluorescence and transmission electron microscopy. Micrographs showed a variable distribution of (1,3;1,4)‐β‐glucan influenced by temporal and spatial factors. The sorghum orthologs of genes implicated in the synthesis of (1,3;1,4)‐β‐glucan in other cereals, such as the Cellulose synthase‐like (Csl) F and H gene families were defined. Transcript profiling of these genes across sorghum tissues was carried out using real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction, indicating that, as in other cereals, CslF6 transcripts dominated.
Effects of Reproductive Experience on Central Expression of Progesterone, Oestrogen α, Oxytocin and Vasopressin Receptor mRNA in Male California Mice (Peromyscus californicus)
Authors: Perea‐Rodriguez J. P. , Takahashi E. Y. , Amador T. M. , Hao R. C. , Saltzman W. , Trainor B. C. 
Published: February 2015

Fatherhood in biparental mammals is accompanied by distinct neuroendocrine changes in males, involving some of the same hormones involved in maternal care. In the monogamous, biparental California mouse (Peromyscus californicus), paternal care has been linked to changes in the central and/or peripheral availability of oestrogen, progesterone, vasopressin and oxytocin, although it is not known whether these endocrine fluctuations are associated with changes in receptor availability in the brain. Thus, we compared mRNA expression of oestrogen receptor (ER)α, progesterone receptor (PR), vasopressin receptor (V1a) and oxytocin receptor (OTR) in brain regions implicated in paternal care [i.e. medial preoptic area (MPOA)], fear [i.e. medial amygdala (MeA)] and anxiety [i.e. bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BNST)] between first‐time fathers (n = 8) and age‐matched virgin males (n = 7). Males from both reproductive conditions behaved paternally towards unrelated pups, whereas fathers showed significantly shorter latencies to behave paternally and less time investigating pups. Furthermore, fathers showed significantly lower PR, OTR and V1a receptor mRNA expression in the BNST compared to virgins. Fathers also showed a marginally significant (P = 0.07) reduction in progesterone receptor mRNA expression in the MPOA, although fatherhood was not associated with any other changes in receptor mRNA in the MPOA or MeA. The results of the present study indicate that behavioural and endocrine changes associated with the onset of fatherhood, and/or with cohabitation with a (breeding) female, are accompanied by changes in mRNA expression of hormone and neuropeptide receptors in the brain.
Coping with melanoma‐related worry: a qualitative study of the experiences and support needs of patients with malignant melanoma
Authors: Bird Joanne , Coleman Patricia , Danson Sarah 
Published: February 2015

Aims and objectivesTo explore the patients' experience of having malignant melanoma, their related support needs and the processes that lead to these needs being met.BackgroundThe number of patients attending surveillance clinics after a diagnosis of malignant melanoma is increasing. In the UK specialist nurses provide support to patients, but little evidence exists about the nature of patients' support needs or their experience of having melanoma. Melanoma has often been researched within general cancer studies, yet the support needs of melanoma patients may be different from those of patients with other skin cancers or tumour types.DesignA Grounded Theory Approach was used to guide sampling, data collection and analysis.MethodsIn‐depth interviews were conducted with eleven patients who where purposively sampled. Transcripts were read several times, coded and categorised using the constant comparative method. Emergent categories were discussed with participants.ResultsThree emergent categories related to a core category of melanoma‐related worry which formed a substantive theory about the strategies patients use to control this. Participants reported needing to have their concerns believed by others prior to and after diagnosis. They discussed discerning whom to share their concerns with depending upon who they felt would not perceive assisting them as being burdensome. They also sought ways to reassure themselves.ConclusionsPatients need to have their fear and worries acknowledged by others. This includes nurses, healthcare professionals and family members. Patients will also use self‐examination and the absence of symptoms to reassure themselves.Relevance to clinical practiceNurses play key roles throughout the patient's care; therefore they need to be sensitive to the fact that patients may consider them a primary source of support. When teaching self‐examination it is important that nurses discuss that this may ease worry and aid coping.
‘Good ethics and moral standing’: a qualitative study of aesthetic leadership in clinical nursing practice
Authors: Mannix Judy , Wilkes Lesley , Daly John 
Published: February 2015

Aims and objectivesTo explore how aesthetic leadership is embodied by clinical leaders in the nursing workplace.BackgroundA number of different leadership styles have been developed, theorised and applied to the nursing workforce over the years. Many of these styles lack an explicit moral dimension in their identified leader attributes, due to a shift in theorising of leadership to focus on the impact of leader traits on followers. It is timely to look at aesthetic leadership, with its explicit moral dimension, as a way of improving outcomes for nurses, patients and health care organisations.DesignQualitative design, using conversation‐style interviews with experienced registered nurses in designated clinical leadership roles.MethodsTwelve experienced registered nurses who worked in designated clinical leadership roles participated in an individual, digitally recorded, semi‐structured conversation‐style interview. Narrative data were transcribed and subject to thematic analysis.FindingsThree main themes emerged: ‘True to their beliefs’: embodying principled practice; ‘Not all policies fit every patient’: ethical leadership in ambiguous situations; and ‘Being open to people's concerns’: providing fair and just solutions. A strong moral compass shaped and guided participants' day‐to‐day clinical leadership activities.ConclusionsParticipants provided a rich narrative on how aesthetic leadership is embodied in the clinical nursing setting. It was evident that their clinical leadership is shaped and guided by a strong moral compass. By incorporating into their practice an aesthetic world‐view with its strong moral purpose, participants in this study have shown how aesthetic leadership can enhance the clinical nursing workplace.Relevance to clinical practiceNurses in the clinical setting value clinical leaders who embrace and operate with a strong moral compass. Aesthetic leadership, with its explicit strong moral purpose, offers a way of incorporating morality into clinical leadership in the nursing workplace.
Supporting staff to respond effectively to informal complaints: findings from an action research study
Authors: Allan Helen T , Odelius Ann Christine , Hunter Billie J , Bryan Karen , Knibb Wendy , Shawe Jill , Gallagher Ann 
Published: February 2015

Aim and objectiveTo understand how nurses and midwives manage informal complaints at ward level.BackgroundThe provision of high quality, compassionate clinical nursing and midwifery is a global priority. Complaints management systems have been established within the National Health Service in the UK to improve patient experience yet little is known about effective responses to informal complaints in clinical practice by nurses and midwives.DesignCollaborative action research.MethodsFour phases of data collection and analysis relating to primarily one National Health Service trust during 2011–2014 including: scoping of complaints data, interviews with five service users and six key stakeholders and eight reflective discussion groups with six midwives over a period of nine months, two sessions of communications training with separate groups of midwives and one focus group with four nurses in the collaborating trust.ResultsThree key themes emerged from these data: multiple and domino complaints; ward staff need support; and unclear complaints systems.ConclusionsCurrent research does not capture the complexities of complaints and the nursing and midwifery response to informal complaints.Relevance to clinical practiceRobust systems are required to support clinical staff to improve their response to informal complaints and thereby improve the patient experience.
Similarities and differences in the experience of fatigue among people living with fibromyalgia, multiple sclerosis, ankylosing spondylitis and stroke
Authors: Eilertsen Grethe , Ormstad Heidi , Kirkevold Marit , Mengshoel Anne M , Söderberg Siv , Olsson Malin 
Published: February 2015

Aims and objectivesTo elucidate the experience of fatigue across several long‐term illnesses, focusing on the similarities and differences.BackgroundFatigue is common to many long‐term illnesses, but it has been studied mainly within the context of a single illness; qualitative studies comparing the experience and its impact on daily life across different long‐term illnesses are lacking.DesignQualitative design.MethodsA secondary analysis was conducted of five original interview studies involving 95 persons with ankylosing spondylitis, fibromyalgia, multiple sclerosis or stroke.ResultsSimilarities and differences concerning experiences of fatigue were found across the studied long‐term illnesses. All patients expressed the perception of having an unfamiliar body. Fatigue was also commonly expressed as unpredictable, uncontrollable and invisible to others. Differences were related to a constant versus a varying condition, a sudden and an uncontrollable sleepiness, a mutual reinforcement with pain and increased stress sensitivity. A lack of energy and a need for sleep and rest were common experiences, as was the impact on social relationships. There were also similarities regarding how the patients managed their daily life. The search for practical solutions and attitude adjustment differed with the fatigue characteristics. All patients felt a lack of understanding and disbelief from others.Conclusion and relevance to clinical practiceFatigue is commonly expressed by patients with long‐term illnesses. Variations in experience are related to the type of diagnosis. The disparity between experiences influences how patients managed and adjusted to the conditions of everyday life. The illness‐specific characteristics of fatigue warrant increased clinical awareness and may allow professionals to offer adequate information and establish effective methods of managing the condition. The feeling of invisibility and difficulty describing the experience of fatigue in particular highlights this need.
High sensitivity detection of salivary 8‐hydroxy deoxyguanosine levels in patients with chronic periodontitis
Authors: Kurgan Ş. , Önder C. , Altıngöz S. M. , Bağış N. , Uyanık M. , Serdar M. A. , Kantarcı A. 
Published: February 2015

BackgroundInflammation is associated with hydroxyl radical damage to DNA as a result of oxidative stress. 8‐Hydroxy deoxyguanosine (8‐OHdG) is a marker of this process and its levels in saliva could be linked to the severity of periodontal inflammation. The aim of this study was to test the sensitivity of liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry (LC‐MS/MS) in comparison to enzyme‐linked immune sorbent assay (ELISA) for the detection of 8‐OHdG in saliva in patients with chronic periodontitis before and after periodontal treatment.MethodsSaliva samples were collected from 23 patients (eight females and 15 males; 46.1 ± 5.1 years of age) with generalized chronic periodontitis and 25 (15 females and 10 males; 44.9 ± 6.8 years of age) periodontally healthy individuals. Patients received initial periodontal treatment consisting of scaling and root planing and were evaluated at baseline and after 6 wk of completion of non‐surgical therapy. Salivary 8‐OHdG levels were measured using ELISA and LC‐MS/MS before and after the treatment. Clinically, plaque index, gingival index, clinical attachment level, bleeding on probing, gingival recession and probing pocket depth were measured at baseline and after 6 wk.ResultsSalivary levels of 8‐OHdG decreased significantly after the non‐surgical periodontal treatment (p < 0.001). Statistically significant positive correlations were observed between plaque index, gingival index, probing pocket depth, clinical attachment level, bleeding on probing values and LC‐MS/MS and ELISA levels of 8‐OHdG (p < 0.001).ConclusionLC‐MS/MS is a reliable and sensitive method for evaluating salivary 8‐OHdG levels to monitor the treatment response of periodontitis.