bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Platelet function analyser (PFA‐100) results and von Willebrand factor deficiency: a 16‐year ‘real‐world’ experience
Authors: Ardillon L. , Ternisien C. , Fouassier M. , Sigaud M. , Lefrançois A. , Pacault M. , Ribeyrol O. , Fressinaud E. , Boisseau P. , Trossaërt M. 
Published: March 2015

SummaryThe platelet function analyser (PFA‐100) is a biological tool designed to explore primary haemostasis. This system has thus been widely demonstrated as reliable in detecting von Willebrand factor (VWF) deficiency. However, most studies were based on patients benefitting from regular medical care and accurate diagnosis, and it would seem probable that the results were somewhat optimistic, and do not reflect its performances in ‘real‐world’ situations. We have chosen to study the reliability of PFA‐100 for screening VWF ristocetin cofactor (VWF:RCo) deficiency. We retrospectively analysed the results (n = 6431) of 4027 patients referred to our centre between October 1997 and June 2013 and in whom PFA‐Epi, PFA‐ADP, and VWF:RCo activity had been evaluated. We studied the influence of blood group on the results and the performances of each method in a subgroup of 213 patients with genetically confirmed von Willebrand disease. We have shown that the PFA‐100 system, in our experience, constitutes an excellent screening test for detecting VWF:RCo deficiency, whatever the clinical situation, in ‘real‐world’ conditions. The negative predictive value (NPV), the positive predictive value, the sensitivity and the specificity were respectively: 0.98, 0.51, 0.98 and 0.40. When values adjusted for blood group are used, NPV and sensitivity are inferior to those using normal values which have not been adjusted for blood group. We have shown the PFA‐100 method to be more efficient in screening for VWF deficiency than the VWF:RCo technique.
Nursing practice environment: A strategy for mental health nurse retention?
Authors: Redknap Robina , Twigg Di , Rock Daniel , Towell Amanda 
Published: March 2015

AbstractHistorically, mental health services have faced challenges in their ability to attract and retain a competent nursing workforce in the context of an overall nursing shortage. The current economic downturn has provided some respite; however, this is likely to be a temporary reprieve, with significant nursing shortages predicted for the future. Mental health services need to develop strategies to become more competitive if they are to attract and retain skilled nurses and avoid future shortages. Research demonstrates that creating and maintaining a positive nursing practice environment is one such strategy and an important area to consider when addressing nurse retention. This paper examines the impact the nursing practice environment has on nurse retention within the general and mental health settings. Findings indicate, that while there is a wealth of evidence to support the importance of a positive practice environment on nurse retention in the broader health system, there is little evidence specific to mental health. Further research of the mental health practice environment is required.
Jordanian mothers' knowledge of infants' childrearing and developmental milestones
Authors: Safadi R.R. , Ahmad M. , Nassar O.S. , Alashhab S.A. , AbdelKader R. , Amre H.M. 
Published: March 2015

AimThis study explored Jordanian mothers' knowledge of infants' childrearing practices and developmental milestones, the socio‐demographic variables of relevance to knowledge, and sources of information that guide childrearing practices.BackgroundParents' knowledge is considered the frame of reference for parents' interpretations of their children's behaviors and provides the basis for having the appropriate expectation of the child's developmental stage. Parents' knowledge of childrearing is essential for children's physical, cognitive and emotional development.MethodsA cross‐sectional design using a modified version of MacPhee's ‘Knowledge of Infant Development Inventory’ was used to assess 400 mothers' knowledge of infants' childrearing and developmental milestones, in Amman, Jordan.ResultsMothers were found to be more knowledgeable in physical and safety skills and less in cognitive, emotional, and parent‐infant interaction skills. Parental age, education, parity and planned pregnancy had limited influence on developmental milestones knowledge. Formal and informal sources of information were used conforming to traditional societies.Discussion and conclusionResults were congruent with findings from other studies in the region and similar traditional societies. Results allude to conclusion that mothers resort to informal sources and traditional practices to replace formally structured programmes when absent.Implications for nursing and health policyHealthcare professionals, nursing schools and healthcare policy makers are encouraged to develop and institute a holistic approach encompassing physical, cognitive, emotional and parent‐infant interaction domains in childrearing educational programmes. Structured parenting programmes for mothers and culturally accepted sources of information for fathers are essential to enhance parenting skills among Jordanian couples.
A novel way to treat skin tears
Authors: Moradian Scott , Klapper Andrew M 
Published: March 2015

AbstractSkin tears are one of the most commonly treated wounds in the elderly population. In their most basic form, they are essentially traumatic random pattern flaps. We postulate that the injured blood flow to these skin flaps should be ignored and the tissue should be treated as a skin graft. A case report is presented of an 86‐year‐old female with an 8 × 3·5 cm skin tear to her right upper extremity after a hip fracture. In addition to conventional wound closure strips re‐approximating the tissues, a disposable negative pressure wound therapy device was placed to act as bolster. Upon its removal on day 5, the opposed skin tear tissue was found to be 100% viable. We therefore propose that this update may be an improvement over classical skin tear treatments and should be followed up with a case series.
Feasibility of an electrostimulation system treatment for wound healing: a case series of patients with chronic ulcers in Barbados
Authors: Ojeh Nkemcho , Rose Angela , Jackman Selma , Applewhaite Morvillia , Webster Veronica 
Published: March 2015

AbstractMajor advances have been made in the development of new therapies for chronic wounds.Fenzian™, an electrostimulation system (ES), has been clinically used for a variety of conditions. TheESwas recently tested in the Barbadian population for tolerability and acceptability by asthma patients, with encouraging results. Barbados has an estimated 170 people with diabetes having some form of lower‐extremity amputation annually. Here, we describe a case series of 21 chronic ulcer patients with diabetes recruited as inpatients (n= 10) and outpatients (n= 11) in a pilot study to evaluate the feasibility and acceptability ofESin the Barbadian population. Results showed statistically significant improvement among those in the inpatient‐ versus outpatient‐recruited group for wound perimeter (P= 0·04), wound surface area (P= 0·03) and wound volume (P= 0·08). We also demonstrate that the improvement continued after cessation ofEStreatment. Participants reported increased levels of pain at the end of treatment, and there was no statistically significant change in the reported quality of life. Our results showed greater improvements in reduction of ulcer size for participants from the inpatient‐ versus outpatient‐recruited group.
Phylogenetic diversity and endemism of Australian daisies (Asteraceae)
Authors: Schmidt‐Lebuhn Alexander N. , Knerr Nunzio J. , Miller Joseph T. , Mishler Brent D. 
Published: March 2015

AbstractAimTo explore the performance of phylogenetic diversity metrics and of the novel categorical analysis of neo‐ and palaeo‐endemism (CANAPE) using a dataset of Australian native Asteraceae and in particular to compare the results at two taxonomic ranks: genus and species.LocationAustralia.MethodsWe used specimen data from Australia's Virtual Herbarium to produce species and genus distribution models withMaxent, and reconstructed a genus‐level phylogeny. Spatial analyses were conducted at a 100 km × 100 km scale. Randomization tests were employed to identify cells with significantly high or low values of phylogenetic diversity (PD), andCANAPEwas used to identify significant hotspots of neo‐ and palaeo‐endemism.ResultsSignificantly highPDvalues were found scattered along the northern and north‐eastern coast, whereas significantly lowPDvalues characterized the arid interior.CANAPEsignalled hotspots of neo‐endemism in the mountainous south‐east of Australia and hotspots of palaeo‐endemism in the tropical north. Patterns were similar between genus‐ and species‐level analyses, although the latter inferred more cells with significant values.Main conclusionsPDandCANAPEgenerally provided results for Australian Asteraceae consistent with expectations based on previous studies. This is further evidence for their utility in formulating and testing hypotheses about phylogenetic and biogeographical processes. The strength of the results is, however, partly dependent on the taxonomic scale of the analysis, a fact that has to be taken into account in the design and interpretation of future studies.
Climate‐related spatial and temporal variation in bill morphology over the past century in Australian parrots
Authors: Campbell‐Tennant Daniel J. E. , Gardner Janet L. , Kearney Michael R. , Symonds Matthew R. E. 
Published: March 2015

AbstractAimAllen's rule posits that the appendages of endothermic organisms will be larger in warmer climates to allow for dumping of heat loads. Given a link between appendage size and climate, we tested the prediction that climate change has driven the evolution of larger bills in birds, resulting in measurable changes over the recent past.LocationAustralia.MethodsWe explored geographical and temporal variation in bill surface area of five Australian parrot species to determine whether individuals from warmer climates have larger bills, and whether there have been increases in bill surface area over time, consistent with climatic warming. Measurements were obtained from museum specimens dating from 1871 to 2008. These data were then related to geographical location, collection date and locality‐specific climate data, in order to construct and compare models of spatio‐temporal and climate‐related variation in bill morphology.ResultsThere have been increases in bill surface area in mulga parrots (Psephotus varius), gang‐gang cockatoos (Callocephalon fimbriatum), red‐rumped parrots (Psephotus haematonotus) and male crimson rosellas (Platycercus elegans), equating to a c. 4–10% increase in bill surface area since 1871. Average maximum summer temperature in the 5 years prior to specimen collection also positively predicted bill surface area in mulga parrots, red‐rumped parrots and crimson rosellas, consistent with Allen's rule. With the exception of red‐rumped parrots, however, models with geographical location and year of collection were still better predictors of bill surface area than local climate at the date of collection.Main conclusionsOur analysis provides evidence that four species of parrot have exhibited adaptive change in bills over the past century potentially mitigating the thermal stress caused by climatic warming. Although consistent with the predicted effects of climate change, the temporal patterns we observe may have additional causes, however, such as changes in primary productivity, habitat or food availability.
Does Systolic Blood Pressure Response to Lifestyle Intervention Indicate Metabolic Risk and Health‐Related Quality‐of‐Life Improvement Over 1 Year?
Authors: Stuckey Melanie I. , Gill Dawn P. , Petrella Robert J. 
Published: March 2015

The purpose of this study was to determine whether responders (minimum 4‐mm Hg reduction of systolic blood pressure [BP]) at 24 weeks) to a 52‐week lifestyle intervention had greater changes in metabolic risk factors and health‐related quality of life than nonresponders. Participants (N=126; age, 57.4 [9.1] years) had waist circumference (WC), resting BP, glycated hemoglobin, lipids, and fitness assessed at baseline and at 12, 24, and 52 months. The 36‐item short‐form survey was administered to assess HRQOL. At baseline, responders had higher mental health scores (P=.04) and systolic and diastolic BPs (P<.001) than nonresponders. Across 52 weeks, responders also had greater improvements in diastolic BP (P<.001), WC (P=.01), and maximal oxygen uptake (P=.04) compared with nonresponders. Participants with clinically important changes in systolic BP at 24 weeks had greater metabolic improvements across 52 weeks, compared with those without clinically important systolic BP changes.
Risk factors for unplanned hospital re‐admissions: a secondary data analysis of hospital discharge summaries
Authors: Braet Anja , Weltens Caroline , Sermeus Walter , Vleugels Arthur 
Published: March 2015

AbstractRationale, aims and objectivesTo identify patient groups at risk for unplanned hospital re‐admissions and risk factors for re‐admission.MethodWe analysed the Belgian Hospital Discharge Dataset including data from 1 130 491 patients discharged in 2008. Patient and hospital factors contributing to re‐admission rate were analysed using a multivariable model for logistic regression.ResultsThe overall unplanned re‐admission rate was 5.2%. Cardiovascular and pulmonary diagnoses were the most common reasons for re‐admission. We found that 10.4% of all re‐admissions were due to complications. A high number of previous emergency department (ED) visits proved to be a predictor for re‐admission [odds ratio (OR) for patients with at least four ED visits in the past 6 months 4.65; 95% confidence interval (CI) 4.25–5.08]. Patients discharged on Friday (OR 1.05; 95% CI 1.01–1.08) and patients with a long length of stay (OR 1.19; 95% CI 1.15–1.23) also had a higher risk for re‐admission. Patients with short lengths of stay were not at risk for re‐admission (OR 0.99; 95% CI 0.95–1.02).ConclusionsActions to reduce re‐admissions can be targeted to patient groups at risk, and should be aimed at the caring for chronic cardiovascular or pulmonary diseases, preventing complications and multiple ED visits, and ensuring continuity of care after discharge, especially for patients discharged on Friday.
A Vision System for Surface Homogeneity Analysis of Dough Based on the Grey Level Co‐occurrence Matrix (GLCM) for Optimum Kneading Time Prediction
Authors: Perez Alvarado Fernando A. , Hussein Mohamed A. , Becker Thomas 
Published: March 2015

AbstractThis paper presents an investigation of a methodology for predicting the optimum time to decide dough readiness by using two‐dimensional imaging and statistical texture analysis. Based on the master baker experience and the torque curve generated by the dough mixer, the system will be correlated to stop the kneading process with the minimum error on the optimum time or point of maximum dough development (peak consistency). This development takes advantage of the gray level co‐occurrence matrix (GLCM) texture analysis for the development of an algorithm to emulate the visual inspection performed by the master bakers, where the homogeneity feature of dough is analyzed during the kneading time. An automatic graphical user interface software for offline and inline analysis was developed for the homogeneity analysis. The programmed algorithm was implemented in many experiments (online and offline) for testing, producing an average error of 33.9 s with respect to average optimal mixing time.Practical ApplicationsThe development of a dough analyzing method, on the basis of an optical surface evaluation, represents an entirely new way to look at the dough properties. The possibility of applying an online dough judgment method without any losses will be given. Simple upgrading of existing production lines can help to prevent erroneous processing and to increase the quality of the end product. Instantaneous state of the art for determining the optimum dough development or dough readiness is the visual and tactile evaluation of the technical staff and laboratory investigations. The expansion of the indirect method by a digital interface‐based analytic approach provides a significant improvement in industrial bakery production and a potential direct method for dough analysis.
Taste Characterization for the Quality Assessment of Dried Lycium Fruits
Authors: Tian Xiaojing , Wang Jun , Cui Shaoqing , Wei Zhenbo 
Published: March 2015

AbstractA taste‐sensing system was used to study dried Lycium fruits of different producing year and grades. Physical indexes were measured to classify the grade of Lycium fruits and to find correlation between grade indexes and taste characterization. The least significant difference, principal component analysis and linear regression were applied in the data processing. Significant differences were found for sourness, bitterness, astringency and aftertaste‐B. Classifications according to producing years and grades were found by principle component analysis. Strong correlations between producing year, grades and taste characterization were found.Practical ApplicationsLycium barbarum L. has been used as traditional medicine in Asian and many countries. This study evaluates the taste characterization and its application in determination of producing years and grades of Lycium fruits. With multivariate analysis, it is possible to detect producing years and grades of dried Lycium fruits with taste characterization, providing evidence for fast adulteration detection of Lycium fruits.
Investigation on Physicochemical and Sensory Evaluation of Cookies Substituted with Papaya Pulp Flour
Authors: Varastegani Boshra , Zzaman Wahidu , Yang Tajul A. 
Published: March 2015

AbstractIn this present study, papaya pulp flour (PPuF) was used as a substitute for normal wheat flour used in cookies (15, 30 and 50%) and then the nutritional properties of the prepared cookies were investigated. Improvement of the nutritional value of cookies indicated that PPuF contained 17.16% dietary fiber, 8.55 mg/g polyphenol, 1.05% resistant starch and 15.48% 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) oxidation which is higher than wheat flour. The total dietary fiber content increased from control cookie to 50% cookie substituted with PPuF (3.46 to 6.56%, respectively). The content of polyphenols increased from 0.01 to 1.37 mg/g. The antioxidant properties of cookies with the 50% incorporation of PPuF increased from 0.31 to 9.12%. The cookies incorporated with PPuF showed improved antioxidant properties, dietary fiber, resistant starch and acceptable organoleptic attribute. The sensory evaluation showed higher overall acceptability in cookies made from 50% substituted papaya flour among all cookies.Practical ApplicationsThese dried papaya also have bioactive compounds that are useful to human health. Industrial application and relevancy of papaya powder could be exported to other countries as capsulation added to pharmaceutical factories in terms of flavoring and antioxidant activities. Papaya dried powder can be added to wheat flour as composite flour to be used in bakery products in term of flavoring, soluble dietary fiber, antioxidant activities, resistant starch, water‐holding capacity and oil binding capacity.
In vivo classification of colorectal neoplasia using high‐resolution microendoscopy: Improvement with experience
Authors: Parikh Neil D , Perl Daniel , Lee Michelle H , Chang Shannon S , Polydorides Alexandros D , Moshier Erin , Godbold James , Zhou Elinor , Mitcham Josephine , Richards‐Kortum Rebecca , Anandasabapathy Sharmila 
Published: March 2015

AbstractBackground and AimsHigh‐resolution microendoscopy (HRME) is a novel, low‐cost “optical biopsy” technology that allows for subcellular imaging. The study aim was to evaluate the learning curve of HRME for the differentiation of neoplastic from non‐neoplastic colorectal polyps.MethodsIn a prospective cohort fashion, a total of 162 polyps from 97 patients at a single tertiary care center were imaged by HRME and classified in real time as neoplastic (adenomatous, cancer) or non‐neoplastic (normal, hyperplastic, inflammatory). Histopathology was the gold standard for comparison. Diagnostic accuracy was examined at three intervals over time throughout the study; the initial interval included the first 40 polyps, the middle interval included the next 40 polyps examined, and the final interval included the last 82 polyps examined.ResultsSensitivity increased significantly from the initial interval (50%) to the middle interval (94%, P = 0.02) and the last interval (97%, P = 0.01). Similarly, specificity was 69% for the initial interval but increased to 92% (P = 0.07) in the middle interval and 96% (P = 0.02) in the last interval. Overall accuracy was 63% for the initial interval and then improved to 93% (P = 0.003) in the middle interval and 96% (P = 0.0007) in the last interval.ConclusionsIn conclusion, this in vivo study demonstrates that an endoscopist without prior colon HRME experience can achieve greater than 90% accuracy for identifying neoplastic colorectal polyps after 40 polyps imaged. HRME is a promising modality to complement white light endoscopy in differentiating neoplastic from non‐neoplastic colorectal polyps.
Living kidney donors' experiences while undergoing evaluation for donation: a qualitative study
Authors: Agerskov Hanne , Ludvigsen Mette Spliid , Bistrup Claus , Pedersen Birthe D 
Published: March 2015

Aim and objectiveTo explore living kidney donors' experiences during the donor evaluation process.BackgroundDue to a shortage of organs for kidney transplantation from deceased donors, the living kidney donation rate has increased. The time period until transplantation is often shorter when using living donors compared to deceased donors. Although technological developments in immunology have made it possible to perform successful kidney transplants between donors and recipients, a large disparity still exists between the number of patients needing a kidney transplant and the supply of kidneys from living donors. This need has promoted donation from living kidney donors. The evaluation phase prior to donation is a crucial period in the recruitment of living kidney donors, as it ensures that donors are physically and mentally suitable for donation.DesignA qualitative study taking a phenomenological‐hermeneutic approach.MethodsData were generated using participant observation during the evaluation period and semi‐structured interviews after conclusion of the evaluation. In total, 18 potential donors were included. Data were interpreted and discussed in accordance with Ricoeur's theory of interpretation: naïve reading, structural analysis, critical interpretation and discussion.ResultsFeelings of hope concerning acceptance as a donor and concerns for the recipient's illness and everyday life were evident during evaluation. Donors' experiences largely depended on the quality of their communication and interaction with the healthcare professionals. In some cases, donors were supported and cared for, while in other cases, frustrations and vulnerability were evident and emotional support and attention to donors' needs were not present.ConclusionThe evaluation period for living kidney donation involves hope, vulnerability and concern. Interaction, communication and support from healthcare professionals to help donors manage this crucial phase are essential. Accordingly, the identification of donors' specific care and support needs, including physical, mental and ethical factors, is key to a positive experience.Relevance to clinical practiceThe attention, commitment and engagement of healthcare professionals are essential elements in the identification of donors' individual needs.