bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Coordination of stress signals by the lysine methyltransferase SMYD2 promotes pancreatic cancer
Authors: Reynoird Nicolas , Mazur Pawel K. , Stellfeld Timo , Flores Natasha M. , Lofgren Shane M. , Carlson Scott M. , Brambilla Elisabeth , Hainaut Pierre , Kaznowska Ewa B. , Arrowsmith Cheryl H. , Khatri Purvesh , Stresemann Carlo , Gozani Or , Sage Julien
Published: March 2016

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a lethal form of cancer with few therapeutic options. We found that levels of the lysine methyltransferase SMYD2 (SET and MYND domain 2) are elevated in PDAC and that genetic and pharmacological inhibition of SMYD2 restricts PDAC growth. We further identified the stress response kinase MAPKAPK3 (MK3) as a new physiologic substrate of SMYD2 in PDAC cells. Inhibition of MAPKAPK3 impedes PDAC growth, identifying a potential new kinase target in PDAC. Finally, we show that inhibition of SMYD2 cooperates with standard chemotherapy to treat PDAC cells and tumors. These findings uncover a pivotal role for SMYD2 in promoting pancreatic cancer.
Injured workers and their return to work
Authors: Galizzi Monica , Leombruni Roberto , Pacelli Lia , Bena Antonella
Published: March 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to study the factors affecting the return to work (RTW) of injured workers in an institutional setting where workers’ earnings are fully compensated during the disability period.

Design/methodology/approach

– The authors use a unique data set matching employer-employee panel data with Italian workers’ compensation records. The authors estimate survival models accounting for workers’ unobserved heterogeneity.

Findings

– Workers with higher wage growth, higher relative wages and from firms with better histories of stable employment, RTW sooner. More vulnerable workers – immigrants, females, members of smaller firms – also tend to return sooner. But even when we control for such measures of commitment, status, and job security, high-wage workers RTW sooner.

Research limitations/implications

– The authors use proxies as measures of commitment and status. The authors study blue-collar workers without finer job qualifications. The authors estimate a reduced form model.

Practical implications

– In an institutional environment where the immediate cost of workers’ compensation benefits falls largely on firms, employers seem to pressure those workers whose time off is more costly, i.e., high-wage workers. The lack of evidence ofex postmoral hazard behavior also demands for a better understanding of the relationship between benefits and RTW.

Social implications

– Workers who are induced to RTW before full recovery jeopardize their long- term health and employability. Firms that put such pressure on employees might generate social costs that can be particularity high in the case of high productivity workers.

Originality/value

– The paper offers the first quantitative analysis of an institutional setting where injured workers face 100 percent benefits replacement rate and have job security. This allows focus on other workers’ or employers’ reasons to speed RTW. It is one of very few economics studies on this topic in the European context, providing implications for human resource managers, state regulators, and unions.
Incentive pay configurations: bundle options and country-level adoption
Authors: Prince Nicholas R. , Prince J. Bruce , Skousen Bradley R. , Kabst Rüediger
Published: March 2016

Purpose

– Organizations worldwide are faced with the challenge of motivating and retaining employees. In addressing this challenge, organizations may use a variety of incentive pay practices to align employee behavior with organizational objectives. The purpose of this paper is to empirically identify the incentive pay practice configurations or bundles adopted by private sector firms across 14 different countries from several geographic regions. The patterns of incentive pay configuration adoption for each country are evaluated.

Design/methodology/approach

– Cluster analysis, ANOVA, and multilevel random-intercept logistic modeling are utilized on firms from the 2009 CRANET HRM survey.

Findings

– Phase I of this study empirically identifies four different configurations (contingent rewarder, incentive minimizer, incentive maximizer, and profit rewarder) derived from three incentive pay practices (individual bonus, team bonus, and profit sharing practices) that firms adopt. Phase II evaluates adoption rates by country and finds striking differences in incentive configurations that firms avoid or adopt. Some countries have clear adoption preferences (e.g. Denmark, Sweden, Japan, and France). In other countries firms employ a variety of incentive bundles (e.g. USA, UK, and Germany) and seem to be less constrained by country-based institutional factors.

Research limitations/implications

– Incentive practices are typically studied independent of the configuration of practices that firms select. This research helps us understand the typical bundles in use.

Practical implications

– Organizations worldwide are faced with the need to motivate employees. This research maps the incentive bundles preferred in each of 14 countries.

Social implications

– Employees in different countries come to work with expectations about pay and these shape their perceptions of incentive fairness.

Originality/value

– Research on incentives has tended to focus independently on specific practices and ignore the reality that organizations generally select multiple practices. This research identifies the combinations of incentive practices generally used and does so with firms from 14 countries from various world regions. These results also offer a map of the incentive bundles preferred in each country.
The personality of managers in Britain: gender and sector differences
Authors: Georgellis Yannis , Sankae Nopdol
Published: March 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to investigate the relationship between the big-five personality traits and employees’ chances to become managers, paying particular attention to gender and sector differences.

Design/methodology/approach

– Using longitudinal data from the British Household Panel Survey, covering the period 1991-2008, the authors estimate multivariate logistic regression models for the propensity of individuals to take up a managerial role.

Findings

– The findings confirm that Extraversion, Openness, and Conscientiousness are generally positively associated with the propensity of individuals to become managers. In contrast, Agreeableness and Neuroticism exert a negative influence. However, these associations are moderated by gender and they are contingent upon the specific contextual settings of sectors across the economy.

Practical implications

– The study has practical implications for the design and implementation of well-targeted selection, recruitment, and career coaching strategies, which aim at matching individuals with specific personality traits to specific leadership/managerial roles.

Originality/value

– While the link between personality and leadership has been extensively researched, this study provides some of the first contextual evidence on whether personality can explain the gender gap in managerial roles across different sectors.
Managing workplace religious expression within the legal constraints
Authors: Hambler Andrew
Published: March 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to consider in broad terms how employers may respond to different forms of religious expression by employees in the workplace, within the discretion afforded to them by law.

Design/methodology/approach

– Through a discussion of relevant legislation and case law, and a review of relevant literature, it seeks to identify the legal constraints within which employers must operate when determining policy and practice in this area and gives consideration to how they should respond.

Findings

– It is observed that employers enjoy considerable freedom either to impose restrictions or to encourage religious expression.

Originality/value

– The paper considers some of the over-arching principled arguments both for and against encouraging religious freedom at work, whilst concluding that support for religious expression may be the better option, not least for the positive benefits for employee well-being, commitment and engagement which, it is argued, may result.
Consumer knowledge and religious rulings on products
Authors: Muhamad Nazlida , Leong Vai Shiem , Mizerski Dick
Published: March 2016

Purpose

– This study aims to provide insights on the influence of Muslim consumers’ knowledge on products subjected to contemporary fatwa ruling and their subsequent cognitive and behavioural responses.

Design/methodology/approach

– MANOVA and MANCOVA were used to examine the influence of religious orientation on young Malaysian Muslims’ product knowledge, and the extent of religious orientation and gender on Muslim consumers’ attitude and behaviour towards three contemporary fatwa rulings of products.

Findings

– Respondents’ religious orientation differentiates their knowledge on fatwa prohibition ruling of selected brand and behaviours. Consumers’ religious orientation and gender explain consumers’ behavioural responses to variables of the Theory of Planned Behaviour for three behaviours. Evidence suggests that ruling types affects (conditional and unconditional) consumers’ responses.

Research limitations/implications

– Greater insights are provided on Muslims’ motivation to search information of controversial products, and their subsequent perception and behavioural reactions to controversial products. Findings are limited to the Malaysian Muslim consumers.

Practical implications

– The fact that contemporary fatwa reached young Muslim generations indicates that managers have to be wary of fatwa to predict Muslim consumers’ marketplace behaviours.

Social implications

– A significant number of young Malaysian Muslims are keeping abreast with contemporary fatwa. This suggests that they received an early and substantial exposure to Islamic way of life through their socialisation.

Originality/value

– This study offer insights into the understandings of the young Muslim generation regarding contemporary fatwa on products, and revealed significant findings in relation to consumer product knowledge and religious influences on consumer behaviour.
The child–brand relationship: social interactions matter
Authors: Rodhain Angélique , Aurier Philippe
Published: March 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to study the child–brand relationship dynamic in interaction with the relationships children develop with their family, peers and teacher.

Design/methodology/approach

– In all, six classes in French primary schools are observed for six months. Among the 112 children observed, aged 10-11 years, 24 of them are interviewed twice individually and 24 others are interviewed in focus groups.

Findings

– A lack of coherence between parents, peers and the teacher, as well as with the child’s own desires, affects the child–brand relationship and reduces the child’s self-esteem. Based on this, this study proposes a four-case typology of child–brand relationship dynamics with two criteria: the child’s attitude toward the brand relationship (favorable and unfavorable) and the consistency of attitudes in his/her socialization spheres (peers, parents and teacher) relative to this relationship. Then, the most frequent trajectories children follow across these brand relationship cases are identified.

Research limitations/implications

– This study applies to branded clothes.

Practical implications

– From a marketer’s perspective, this study reveals that there are different qualities in child–brand relationships. The strongest one appears when the child feels free from outside pressure and when peers, parents and the teacher create a virtuous circle for brands (or at least do not contradict the child’s desires for brands).

Social implications

– For public policymakers, it can be useful to be aware that when peers, parents and teachers’ opinions about brands differ, this affects the child’s self-esteem.

Originality/value

– The study offers a dynamic approach to child–brand relationships.
Mapping the domain of the fragmented field of internal branding
Authors: Saleem Fathima Zahara , Iglesias Oriol
Published: March 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to build a comprehensive conceptual framework of internal branding, to demarcate this field from employer branding and to develop an updated definition of internal branding that incorporates the findings of the literature review and emerging views in branding.

Design/methodology/approach

– This research conducts a systematic review of the internal branding and employer branding literature following previously established procedures.

Findings

– The major findings of this research are that internal branding comprises five key components within a supportive corporate culture, namely, brand ideologies, brand leadership, brand-centred human resource management (HRM), internal brand communication and internal brand communities; and that internal branding is related yet distinct from employer branding in its discipline, focus, components, outcomes and the role of the brand. The paper concludes with a comprehensive definition of internal branding derived from the conceptual framework and recent trends in branding, in addition to directed suggestions for future research in the field.

Research limitations/implications

– This research highlights areas for future research within internal branding, including the need for further research on internal brand communities and how brands can “internally brand” brand partners.

Practical implications

– The research highlights the company-wide and brand partner-wide effort required in internal branding, in addition to the necessity of a supportive corporate culture.

Originality/value

– This is the first review of internal branding and employer branding that aims to differentiate between the constructs and build a conceptual framework of internal branding, by drawing from the fields of HRM, marketing, branding and general management.
Oral administration of β‐carotene or lycopene prevents atopic dermatitis‐like dermatitis in HR‐1 mice
Authors: Hiragun Makiko , Hiragun Takaaki , Oseto Ikumi , Uchida Kazue , Yanase Yuhki , Tanaka Akio , Okame Tomoka , Ishikawa Shingo , Mihara Shoji , Hide Michihiro
Published: March 2016

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic relapsing eczematous skin disease. Certain populations of patients are resistant to standard therapies with topical steroids and/or calcineurin inhibitors, and require systemic medication, such as immunosuppressants. Recently, several reports have shed light on the anti‐allergic effects of carotenoids. Therefore, we investigated the effect of p.o. administration of β‐carotene or lycopene on AD‐like symptoms of HR‐1 hairless mice fed with a low zinc/magnesium diet. Mice were divided into four groups: (i) fed with a standard diet (Co group); (ii) low zinc/magnesium diet (HR group); (iii) low zinc/magnesium and β‐carotene diet (HR‐C group); and (iv) low zinc/magnesium and lycopene diet (HR‐L group). They were then fed these diets for 8 weeks. Severities of dermatitis were assessed by their appearance, and histopathological and hematological observations. Mice in the HR group developed AD‐like dermatitis both clinically and histologically. HR‐C and HR‐L group mice also developed xerosis and wrinkle‐like skin changes, but they were milder than those of HR group mice. Histological analysis revealed that epidermis thickening and inflammatory cell infiltration in the skin of the HR‐C and HR‐L groups were both statistically less than those of the HR group. The concentration of thymus and activation regulated chemokine in the skin of the HR‐L group and the concentration of CCL27 in the skin of the HR‐C group were significantly lower than those of the HR group, respectively. In conclusion, p.o. administration of β‐carotene or lycopene prevents AD‐like symptoms in association with a suppression of T‐helper 2 chemokines in a murine model. Ingestion of carotenoids may be beneficial for patients with AD.
Where, when and how plant–soil feedback matters in a changing world
Authors: van der Putten Wim H. , Bradford Mark A. , Pernilla Brinkman E. , van de Voorde Tess F. J. , Veen G. F.
Published: March 2016

It is increasingly acknowledged that plant–soil feedbacks may play an important role in driving the composition of plant communities and functioning of terrestrial ecosystems. However, the mechanistic understanding of plant–soil feedbacks, as well as their roles in natural ecosystems in proportion to other possible drivers, is still in its infancy. Such knowledge will enhance our capacity to determine the contribution of plant–soil feedback to community and ecosystem responses under global environmental change.

Here, we review how plant–soil feedbacks may develop under extreme drought and precipitation events, CO2 and nitrogen enrichment, temperature increase, land use change and plant species loss vs. gain. We present a framework for opening the ‘black box of soil’ considering the responses of the various biotic components (enemies, symbionts and decomposers) of plant–soil feedback to the global environmental changes, and we discuss how to integrate these components to understand and predict the net effects of plant–soil feedbacks under the various scenarios of change.

To gain an understanding of how plant–soil feedback plays out in realistic settings, we also use the framework to discuss its interaction with other drivers of plant community composition, including competition, facilitation, herbivory, and soil physical and chemical properties.

We conclude that understanding the role that plant–soil feedback plays in shaping the responses of plant community composition and ecosystem processes to global environmental changes requires unravelling the individual contributions of enemies, symbionts and decomposers. These biotic factors may show different response rates and strengths, thereby resulting in different net magnitudes and directions of plant–soil feedbacks under various scenarios of global change. We also need tests of plant–soil feedback under more realistic conditions to determine its contribution to changes in patterns and processes in the field, both at ecologically and evolutionary relevant time‐scales.
Can above‐ground ecosystem services compensate for reduced fertilizer input and soil organic matter in annual crops?
Authors: van Gils Stijn , van der Putten Wim H. , Kleijn David
Published: March 2016

Above‐ground and below‐ground environmental conditions influence crop yield by pollination, pest pressure and resource supply. However, little is known about how interactions between these factors contribute to yield. Here, we used oilseed rape Brassica napus to test their effects on crop yield.

We exposed potted plants to all combinations of high and low levels of soil organic matter (SOM) and fertilizer supply, and placed all treatments at a variety of field sites representing a gradient in pollinator visitation rate and pest exposure. We determined the relative contribution of pollinators and pests, SOM and fertilizer supply to yield. We also tested whether SOM can moderate effects of fertilizer on yield and whether soil conditions influence the relationship between above‐ground conditions and yield.

Increases in pollinator visitation rate and decreases in pest pressure enhanced yield more than increase in fertilizer supply. Although higher SOM content resulted in plants with more biomass and flowers, under our experimental conditions SOM neither enhanced yield, nor influenced effects of fertilizer, pollinators or pests on yield.

The relationships between yield, pollinator visitation rate and pest pressure did not depend on the level of fertilization, suggesting that the effects of fertilizer application and above‐ground (dis)services on yield were additive. In contrast, pollinator visitation rate was more strongly related to yield at low pest pressure than at high pest pressure indicating trade‐offs between above‐ground services and disservices.

Synthesis and applications. Our results show that it is possible to increase oilseed rape yield by enhancing pollination, irrespective of supplying mineral fertilizer. Moreover, the fact that below‐ground conditions did not alter the effect of above‐ground conditions suggests that farmers may obtain even higher yields by maximizing both above‐ground ecosystem services and external inputs. Further studies are needed to understand at which point the positive relationships between pollinator visitation and yield, as well as between fertilizer and yield, will level off. Considering above‐ground and below‐ground services and inputs in agro‐ecosystems in conjunction is crucial in order to optimize external inputs for crop yield from an economic and ecological perspective.
Negotiating the Boundaries of Intimacy: The Personal Lives of Asexual People
Authors: Dawson Matt , McDonnell Liz , Scott Susie
Published: March 2016

This paper uses findings from research diaries to explore the use of practices of intimacy among asexual people. While much of the literature to date has focused on the supposedly transformative and political nature of uniquely asexual practices of intimacy, our findings suggest something different. Rather than seeking to transform the nature of intimate relationships, asexual people make pragmatic adjustments and engage in negotiations to achieve the forms of physical and emotional intimacy they seek. We discuss this in relation to three areas: friendships, sex as a practice of intimacy, and exclusion from intimacy. Our findings suggest the importance of not only considering the social context in which asexual people practise intimacy, but also how the practices in which they engage may be shared with non-asexual people.
The Resources of Ageing? Middle-Aged Gay Men's Accounts of Manchester's Gay Voluntary Organizations
Authors: Simpson Paul
Published: March 2016

Middle-aged men's experiences of gay voluntary organizations (GVOs) are neglected in research. To address this knowledge gap, this article extends Bourdieusian theorizing beyond that deployed by Hakim (2010) and Green (2008) concerning ‘erotic capital’ to demonstrate how norms in GVOs can facilitate or frustrate mobilization of ‘ageing capital’ by middle-aged gay men living in Manchester (UK), which has implications for comparable cities within and beyond a UK context. Based on interviews with 22 men aged 39–55, this article demonstrates how ‘ageing capital’ can facilitate challenge to gay ageism but also how such ageism can frustrate and even overwhelm men's capacities to deploy ageing capital in generic GVOs, thus reinforcing intergenerational conflict and expression of ageism towards younger gay men. In doing so, this article contributes to knowledge about the reproduction of the relations of ageism in a particular field of gay existence.
Lobbying and Uniform Disclosure Regulation
Authors: FRIEDMAN HENRY L. , HEINLE MIRKO S.
Published: March 2016

This study examines the costs and benefits of uniform accounting regulation in the presence of heterogeneous firms that can lobby the regulator. A commitment to uniform regulation reduces economic distortions caused by lobbying by creating a free‐rider problem between lobbying firms at the cost of forcing the same treatment on heterogeneous firms. Resolving this tradeoff, an institutional commitment to uniformity is socially desirable when firms are sufficiently homogeneous or the costs of lobbying to society are large. We show that the regulatory intensity for a given firm can be increasing or decreasing in the degree of uniformity, even though uniformity always reduces lobbying. Our analysis sheds light on the determinants of standard‐setting institutions and their effects on corporate governance and lobbying efforts.
Pre‐clinical medical students' perceptions of their patient safety skills in a simulated emergency department
Authors: Raymond‐Dufresne Éliane , Brazil Victoria , Johnson Patricia L , Nielson Tracy L
Published: March 2016

Objectives

Patient safety has emerged as an important topic for inclusion in medical curricula. However, there is limited literature describing how medical students are taught, learn and self‐assess patient safety skills. The present study aimed to seek pre‐clinical medical students' perceptions of (i) their individual performance at a range of safety skills; and (ii) how they define patient safety in a simulated ED.

Methods

Data were collected in the form of questionnaire responses at the end of the Bond University Simulated ED activity in October 2014. The simulated ED is a session for pre‐clinical medical students prior to their clinical rotations, aimed at preparing them for the clinical environment. Likert scale and short answer responses were used to describe students' perceptions of their safety skills and to identify themes related to patient safety.

Results

Seventy‐eight out of 92 students completed the questionnaires (85% response rate). The majority of students thought their patients were safe from adverse events during their shift. However, students' perception of patient safety was wide‐ranging and demonstrated a number of misconceptions. The most frequent strategies employed by students to ensure patient safety were asking for help from nursing staff or senior doctors, ensuring good communication with the patient and checking allergies before administering medication.

Conclusion

Students had a favourable opinion of their own safety skills. However, answers to free text question revealed misconceptions about the nature of patient safety despite significant teaching on this topic.
Clinical impact of a high‐sensitivity troponin assay introduction on patients presenting to the emergency department
Authors: Peck Daniel , Knott Jonathan , Lefkovits Jeffrey
Published: March 2016

Objective

Biomarkers are a critical component in the investigation of patients with potential ischaemic heart disease. The proposed benefits of a high‐sensitivity troponin (hs‐Tn) assay include earlier diagnosis of myocardial infarction. However, the decreased specificity may adversely affect clinical practice. The present study aims to investigate the impact that the introduction of a hs‐Tn assay had on patients presenting to the ED.

Methods

A pre‐ and post‐interventional analysis was performed on all patients presenting to the Royal Melbourne Hospital ED, and had a troponin, in the 12 months before and after the introduction of the hs‐Tn assay. The main outcome measures were ED length of stay, admission rates, proportion of patients undergoing interventional cardiac procedures and proportion diagnosed with myocardial infarction.

Results

There were 6557 patients who had a conventional assay and 7335 patients who had a hs‐Tn assay. The introduction of a hs‐Tn assay was associated with an increased abnormal troponin rate (23.4% vs 28.1%, P < 0.001). The median length of ED stay decreased by 9.1% (P < 0.001). The proportion admitted to hospital increased (60.9% vs 65.9%, P < 0.001); however, there was no difference in the proportion undergoing revascularisation or the proportion diagnosed with myocardial infarction.

Conclusions

Although the introduction of a hs‐Tn assay led to an increase in hospital admissions, the unchanged rate of cardiac procedures or final diagnoses of acute myocardial infarction and ischaemic heart disease suggests that the hs‐Tn did not improve the detection of these conditions. It remains unclear whether there was a benefit admitting the additional cohort of patients.
Effects of Imidacloprid and Varroa destructor on survival and health of European honey bees, Apis mellifera
Authors: Abbo Pendo M. , Kawasaki Joshua K. , Hamilton Michele , Cook Steven C. , DeGrandi‐Hoffman Gloria , Li Wen Feng , Liu Jie , Chen Yan Ping
Published: March 2016

There has been growing concern over declines in populations of honey bees and other pollinators which are a vital part to our food security. It is imperative to identify factors responsible for accelerated declines in bee populations and develop solutions for reversing bee losses. While exact causes of colony losses remain elusive, risk factors thought to play key roles are ectoparasitic mites Varroa destructor and neonicotinoid pesticides. The present study aims to investigate effects of a neonicotinoid pesticide Imidacloprid and Varroa mites individually on survivorship, growth, physiology, virus dynamics and immunity of honey bee workers. Our study provides clear evidence that the exposure to sublethal doses of Imidacloprid could exert a significantly negative effect on health and survival of honey bees. We observed a significant reduction in the titer of vitellogenin (Vg), an egg yolk precursor that regulates the honey bees development and behavior and often are linked to energy homeostasis, in bees exposed to Imidacloprid. This result indicates that sublethal exposure to neonicotinoid could lead to increased energy usage in honey bees as detoxification is a energy‐consuming metabolic process and suggests that Vg could be a useful biomarker for measuring levels of energy stress and sublethal effects of pesticides on honey bees. Measurement of the quantitative effects of different levels of Varroa mite infestation on the replication dynamic of Deformed wing virus (DWV), an RNA virus associated with Varroa infestation, and expression level of immune genes yields unique insights into how honey bees respond to stressors under laboratory conditions.
Superior Vena Cava Obstruction in Hemodialysis Patients: Symptoms, Clinical Presentation and Outcomes Compared to Other Etiologies
Authors: Siegel Yoel , Kuker Russ
Published: March 2016

The incidence of superior vena cava (SVC) obstruction associated with non‐malignant diseases is on the rise, and a large percentage of these patients are on hemodialysis (HD). The objective was to characterize the presentation, symptoms and outcomes of HD patients with SVC obstruction identified on computerized tomography (CT) compared to patients with other etiologies such as neoplasm. A search was performed through the PACS system using key words to identify patients with SVC obstruction. The CT scans and charts were reviewed for degree of obstruction, signs, symptoms and outcomes. Thirty‐six patients were included in the study. Thirteen were on HD and of these, five had symptoms associated with SVC obstruction and one had concordant findings on physical exam. In comparison, thirteen patients with a chest neoplasm had symptoms and four had concordant findings on physical exam. On follow up, 31% of the HD patients died and of these 60% were symptomatic and died within 2 years. 29% of lung cancer patients died within 16 months. The majority of the HD patients had complete SVC obstruction (85%) as opposed to those with a chest neoplasm who mostly had partial SVC occlusion (67%). In conclusion, patients on HD with SVC obstruction are less often symptomatic than those with a neoplasm. However, these HD patients had a death rate similar to the patients with cancer. This risk seems to increase in those who are symptomatic. Diagnosis of SVC obstruction by CT in HD patients may help identify those with less favorable prognosis.
Sensory and Physicochemical Studies of Thermally Micronized Chickpea (Cicer arietinum) and Green Lentil (Lens culinaris) Flours as Binders in Low‐Fat Beef Burgers
Authors: Shariati‐Ievari Shiva , Ryland Donna , Edel Andrea , Nicholson Tiffany , Suh Miyoung , Aliani Michel
Published: March 2016

Pulses are known to be nutritious foods but are susceptible to oxidation due to the reaction of lipoxygenase (LOX) with linolenic and linoleic acids which can lead to off flavors caused by the formation of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Infrared micronization at 130 and 150 °C was investigated as a heat treatment to determine its effect on LOX activity and VOCs of chickpea and green lentil flour. The pulse flours were added to low‐fat beef burgers at 6% and measured for consumer acceptability and physicochemical properties. Micronization at 130 °C significantly decreased LOX activity for both flours. The lentil flour micronized at 150 °C showed a further significant decrease in LOX activity similar to that of the chickpea flour at 150 °C. The lowering of VOCs was accomplished more successfully with micronization at 130 °C for chickpea flour while micronization at 150 °C for the green lentil flour was more effective. Micronization minimally affected the characteristic fatty acid content in each flour but significantly increased omega‐3 and n‐6 fatty acids at 150 °C in burgers with lentil and chickpea flours, respectively. Burgers with green lentil flour micronized at 130 and 150 °C, and chickpea flour micronized at 150 °C were positively associated with acceptability. Micronization did not affect the shear force and cooking losses of the burgers made with both flours. Formulation of low‐fat beef burgers containing 6% micronized gluten‐free binder made from lentil and chickpea flour is possible based on favorable results for physicochemical properties and consumer acceptability.
Simultaneous identification of host, ectoparasite and pathogen DNA via in‐solution capture
Authors: Campana Michael G. , Hawkins Melissa T. R. , Henson Lauren H. , Stewardson Kristin , Young Hillary S. , Card Leah R. , Lock Justin , Agwanda Bernard , Brinkerhoff Jory , Gaff Holly D. , Helgen Kristofer M. , Maldonado Jesús E. , McShea William J. , Fleischer Robert C.
Published: March 2016

Ectoparasites frequently vector pathogens from often unknown pathogen reservoirs to both human and animal populations. Simultaneous identification of the ectoparasite species, the wildlife host that provided their most recent blood meal(s), and their pathogen load would greatly facilitate the understanding of the complex transmission dynamics of vector‐borne diseases. Currently, these identifications are principally performed using multiple polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays. We developed an assay (EctoBaits) based on in‐solution capture paired with high‐throughput sequencing to simultaneously identify ectoparasites, host blood meals and pathogens. We validated our in‐solution capture results using double‐blind PCR assays, morphology and collection data. The EctoBaits assay effectively and efficiently identifies ectoparasites, blood meals, and pathogens in a single capture experiment, allowing for high‐resolution taxonomic identification while preserving the DNA sample for future analyses.
Autobiographical Memory Deficits in Alcohol‐Dependent Patients with Short‐ and Long‐Term Abstinence
Authors: Nandrino Jean‐Louis , El Haj Mohamad , Torre Julie , Naye Delphine , Douchet Helyette , Danel Thierry , Cottençin Oliver
Published: March 2016

Background

Autobiographical memory (AM) enables the storage and retrieval of life experiences that allow individuals to build their sense of identity. Several AM impairments have been described in patients with alcohol abuse disorders without assessing whether such deficits can be recovered. This cross‐sectional study aimed to identify whether the semantic (SAM) and episodic (EAM) dimensions of AM are affected in individuals with alcohol dependence after short‐term abstinence (STA) or long‐term abstinence (LTA). A second aim of this study was to examine the factors that could disrupt the efficiency of semantic and episodic AM (the impact of depression severity, cognitive functions, recent or early traumatic events, and drinking history variables).

Methods

After clinical and cognitive evaluations (alcohol consumption, depression, anxiety, IQ, memory performance), AM was assessed with the Autobiographical Memory Interview in patients with recent (between 4 and 6 weeks) and longer (at least 6 months) abstinence. Participants were asked to retrieve the number and nature of traumatic or painful life experiences in recent or early life periods (using the Childhood Traumatic Events Scale).

Results

The 2 abstinent groups had lower global EAM and SAM scores than the control group. These scores were comparable for both abstinent groups. For childhood events, no significant differences were observed in SAM for both groups compared with control participants. For early adulthood and recent events, both STA and LTA groups had lower scores on both SAM and EAM. Moreover, there was a negative correlation between the length of substance consumption and SAM scores.

Conclusions

This study highlighted a specific AM disorder in both episodic and semantic dimensions. These deficits remained after 6 months of abstinence. This AM impairment may be explained by compromised encoding and consolidation of memories during bouts of drinking.
Incubation of extinction responding and cue‐induced reinstatement, but not context‐ or drug priming‐induced reinstatement, after withdrawal from methamphetamine
Authors: Adhikary Sweta , Caprioli Daniele , Venniro Marco , Kallenberger Paige , Shaham Yavin , Bossert Jennifer M.
Published: March 2016

In rats trained to self‐administer methamphetamine, extinction responding in the presence of drug‐associated contextual and discrete cues progressively increases after withdrawal (incubation of methamphetamine craving). The conditioning factors underlying this incubation are unknown. Here, we studied incubation of methamphetamine craving under different experimental conditions to identify factors contributing to this incubation. We also determined whether the rats' response to methamphetamine priming incubates after withdrawal. We trained rats to self‐administer methamphetamine in a distinct context (context A) for 14 days (6 hours/day). Lever presses were paired with a discrete light cue. We then tested groups of rats in context A or a different non‐drug context (context B) after 1 day, 1 week or 1 month for extinction responding with or without the discrete cue. Subsequently, we tested the rats for reinstatement of drug seeking induced by exposure to contextual, discrete cue, or drug priming (0, 0.25 and 0.5 mg/kg). Operant responding in the extinction sessions in contexts A or B was higher after 1 week and 1 month of withdrawal than after 1 day; this effect was context‐independent. Independent of the withdrawal period, operant responding in the extinction sessions was higher when responding led to contingent delivery of the discrete cue. After extinction, discrete cue‐induced reinstatement, but not context‐ or drug priming‐induced reinstatement, progressively increased after withdrawal. Together, incubation of methamphetamine craving, as assessed in extinction tests, is primarily mediated by time‐dependent increases in non‐reinforced operant responding, and this effect is potentiated by exposure to discrete, but not contextual, cues.
Medication‐assisted treatment for hospitalized patients with intravenous‐drug‐use related infective endocarditis
Authors: Suzuki Joji
Published: March 2016

Background and Objectives

A feared complication of opioid use disorder (OUD) is intravenous drug use related infective endocarditis (IDU‐IE). We report on our experience engaging hospitalized IDU‐IE patients to initiate medication‐assisted treatment (MAT).

Methods

A retrospective study (n = 29) using descriptive statistics.

Results

Overall, 9 (31.0%) successfully initiated buprenorphine maintenance during the hospitalization, and 9 (31.0%) accepted a referral to methadone maintenance following discharge. Eleven (37.9%) declined MAT altogether.

Discussion and Conclusions

Hospitalizations may represent an important opportunity to engage IDU‐IE patients to initiate MAT.

Scientific Significance

The study provides preliminary support of engaging hospitalized IDU‐IE patients to initiate MAT. (Am J Addict 2016;25:191–194)
Health state utilities in non–small cell lung cancer: An international study
Authors: Nafees Beenish , Lloyd Andrew J , Dewilde Sarah , Rajan Narayan , Lorenzo Maria
Published: March 2016

Aim

Quality of life weights (utilities) are an important input in economic evaluation and evidence suggests that there can be important differences between countries. This study was designed to capture utilities for metastatic non–small cell lung cancer and common grade III/IV toxicities associated with treatment from local populations in the United Kingdom, Australia, France, China, Taiwan, and Korea. Toxicities included neutropenia, febrile neutropenia, fatigue, diarrhea, nausea and vomiting, rash, bleeding, hypertension, and hair loss.

Methods

Existing health state descriptions of non–small cell lung cancer were adapted to represent descriptions of patients on first‐line treatment. Twenty‐three states were translated and assessed in cognitive debrief content validation interviews with oncologists in each country. Seventy‐five respondents per country completed a time trade‐off interview to evaluate the states. Variation between countries for all states was explored with a Generalized Estimating Equations model.

Results

The mean utility for “stable disease and no side effects” (base state) varied between 0.84 (United Kingdom) and 0.54 (Taiwan). The largest utility decrements were found for febrile neutropenia (0.47) and neutropenia (0.35) across all countries. Asian countries regarded bleeds as a severe toxicity whereas non‐Asian countries did not and valued diarrhea and fatigue as more severe. Significant differences in utilities between countries emerged with the Taiwanese population in particular rating states as significantly worse than other countries.

Conclusion

This study improves our understanding of how utilities for the same states can vary across countries. The study shows the importance of capturing utilities that reflect the preferences of the local population.
Edge effects: impact of anthropogenic activities on vegetation structure and diversity in western Umfurudzi Park, Zimbabwe
Authors: Muposhi Victor K. , Chademana Thelma C. , Gandiwa Edson , Muboko Never
Published: March 2016

Understanding the patterns and intensity of anthropogenic impacts on habitats is important in the conservation of tropical ecosystems. The aim of the study was to establish the associated edge effects of anthropogenic disturbances on vegetation in western Umfurudzi Park, Zimbabwe. Three study strata were established using distance from the boundary into the park. Vegetation attributes and anthropogenic disturbance levels data were collected in 2012. Significant differences (P < 0.05) were noted on tree and shrub density, woody plant height, woody plant diversity, grass height and grass sward width across the three strata. Land clearing, livestock grazing and firewood collection were the most frequent and pronounced disturbances occurring along the park boundary. These disturbances decreased in intensity as distance from the boundary increased. We recommend the following: (i) the need to revisit the buffer zone concept and policy measures associated with ecosystem services and goods provision for communities surrounding protected areas, (ii) engaging neighbouring communities on sustainable ways of deriving ecosystem goods and services from buffer zones and protected areas and (iii) further studies on the regeneration and recovery of cleared patches along the boundary and their use by wildlife species in the park.
Iodine‐125 seeds to guide removal of impalpable breast lesions: radio‐guided occult lesion localization – a pilot study
Authors: Bourke Anita G. , Taylor Donna B. , Westcott Eliza , Hobbs Max , Saunders Christobel
Published: March 2016

Background

The aim of this study was to confirm that radio‐guided occult lesion localization using low activity iodine 125 (I‐125) seeds (ROLLIS) could be safely and accurately used for localization and guided excision of impalpable breast lesions in different multidisciplinary settings and to prepare staff for a randomized controlled trial.

Method

Preoperative image‐guided localization of 102 lesions using one or two I‐125 seeds with hook‐wire back‐up was performed in 99 participants at two tertiary hospitals. Preoperative core biopsy in 24 lesions was benign or indeterminate (Group A) and malignant in 78 lesions (Group B). Imaging and histopathology findings and re‐excision rates were recorded. Training requirements for new staff and seed handling protocols were refined.

Results

All seeds and lesions were successfully removed. In five of 23 Group A participants, malignancy on final pathology required definitive surgery for positive margins. The re‐excision rate in Group B was 17%. Overall re‐excision rate was 18%. Thirty‐seven clinical staff members were trained. Sentinel node localization was successful in all 76 cases. Seeds of low activity were successfully used.

Conclusion

The ROLLIS technique using a lower dose (∼2 MBq) seed is safe, effective and can easily be adopted in a large multi‐disciplinary setting.
Free‐flap salvage: muscle only versus skin paddle – an Australian experience
Authors: Dat Anthony D. , Loh Ian W. , Bruscino‐Raiola Frank
Published: March 2016

Background

Free‐tissue transfer flaps are an effective reconstructive option for complex wounds; however, flap failure is a dreaded complication requiring timely re‐exploration and salvage. The aim of this study was to determine whether salvage rates were higher in skin flaps, as opposed to muscle flaps, due to the durability of the overlying skin paddle allowing for better visual post‐operative monitoring and more timely recognition of the threatened flap.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective analysis of all patients who underwent a free flap at an Australian tertiary centre between 2004 and 2014. Data were collected on patient demographics, indication, flap type, time of recognition of the threatened flap and re‐exploration outcome. Data were analysed using Stata version 13 (StataCorp, College Station, TX, USA). Student's t‐test, analysis of variance and Pearson's chi‐squared test were used to compare groups.

Results

There were 560 patients who underwent 573 free flaps. The most common indication was trauma. There were 58 re‐explorations with a successful salvage rate of 79.3% (46/58). Overall complete flap loss rate was 2.1% (12/573). In flaps requiring re‐exploration, there was a higher complete flap loss rate for muscle only flaps versus those with a skin paddle (P‐value = 0.041).

Conclusion

While timely recognition and re‐exploration of the compromised free flap in the early postoperative setting is important in determining the flap salvage success, it is demonstrated that salvage rates are poorer for muscle only flaps compared with flaps with a skin paddle.