bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Experimental investigation of basin solar still with additional condensation chamber under Algerian climatic conditions
Authors: Kerfah Rabah , Noura Belkheir , Meraimi Zakarya , Zeghmati Belkacem
Published: June 2017

In this paper, an experimental analysis of a solar system composed of a basin solar still with an additional condensation chamber was investigated. For this, a prototype was designed and constructed. The condensation chamber was cooled by a forced circulation of cold water. A solar pump powered by a solar panel ensures the circulation of cooling water. Experiments were performed under meteorological conditions of Khemis Miliana (Algeria) for several summer days. Solar radiation, the cooling flow rate, ambient temperature, and temperatures at different points of the condensation chamber and the still were measured. The effect of the cooling flow rate on the performances of the still was investigated. The amount of distillate water and the efficiency of the system increase to 43% and 26%, respectively, compared to those of the system not involving the cooling process. The results show the existence of a limit beyond which any further increase in the cooling water flow rate will produce opposite effects.
Improvement in switching characteristics and long-term stability of Zn-O-N thin-film transistors by silicon doping
Authors: Tsuji Hiroshi , Takei Tatsuya , Nakata Mitsuru , Miyakawa Masashi , Fujisaki Yoshihide , Yamamoto Toshihiro
Published: June 2017

The effects of silicon doping on the properties of Zn-O-N (ZnON) films and on the device characteristics of ZnON thin-film transistors (TFTs) were investigated by co-sputtering silicon and zinc targets. Silicon doping was effective at decreasing the carrier concentration in ZnON films; therefore, the conductivity of the films can be controlled by the addition of a small amount of silicon. Doped silicon atoms also form bonds with nitrogen atoms, which suppresses nitrogen desorption from the films. Furthermore, Si-doped ZnON-TFTs are demonstrated to exhibit less negative threshold voltages, smaller subthreshold swings, and better long-term stability than non-doped ZnON-TFTs.
CausalR: extracting mechanistic sense from genome scale data
Authors: Bradley Glyn , Barrett Steven J
Published: June 2017

Utilization of causal interaction data enables mechanistic rather than descriptive interpretation of genome-scale data. Here we present CausalR, the first open source causal network analysis platform. Implemented functions enable regulator prediction and network reconstruction, with network and annotation files created for visualization in Cytoscape. False positives are limited using the introduced Sequential Causal Analysis of Networks approach.

Availability and implementation

CausalR is implemented in R, parallelized, and is available from Bioconductor

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Role of DNA polymerase β oxidized nucleotide insertion in DNA ligation failure
Authors: Çağlayan Melike , Wilson Samuel H
Published: June 2017

Production of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (ROS), such as hydrogen peroxide, superoxide and hydroxyl radicals, has been linked to cancer, and these oxidative molecules can damage DNA. Base excision repair (BER), a major repair system maintaining genome stability over a lifespan, has an important role in repairing oxidatively induced DNA damage. Failure of BER leads to toxic consequences in ROS-exposed cells, and ultimately can contribute to the pathobiology of disease. In our previous report, we demonstrated that oxidized nucleotide insertion by DNA polymerase β (pol β) impairs BER due to ligation failure and leads to formation of a cytotoxic repair intermediate. Biochemical and cytotoxic effects of ligation failure could mediate genome stability and influence cancer therapeutics. In this review, we discuss the importance of coordination between pol β and DNA ligase I during BER, and how this could be a fundamental mechanism underlying human diseases such as cancer and neurodegeneration. A summary of this work was presented in a symposium at the International Congress of Radiation Research 2015 in Kyoto, Japan.
Revisiting the role of steroids and aspirin in the management of acute Kawasaki disease
Authors: Dhanrajani Anita , Yeung Rae S.M.
Published: June 2017

Purpose of review

Kawasaki disease is an acute multisystem childhood vasculitis with a predilection for the coronary arteries. The role of corticosteroids and acetyl salicylic acid (ASA) in the treatment of acute Kawasaki disease are matters of ongoing debate and changing attitudes from one extreme to the other. Recent work has provided new evidence to guide our thinking about these two therapeutic agents, which will be the focus of this review.

Recent findings

Corticosteroids are effective and well tolerated in Kawasaki disease, both as initial adjunctive treatment in those at high-risk for poor outcome, and as rescue therapy after failed intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG).

Higher doses of ASA (> 30 mg/kg/day) in the acute phase of Kawasaki disease, have no clear benefit over antiplatelet doses in improving coronary outcome.

Corticosteroids should be used in patients at high-risk for poor coronary outcome, and in patients who fail IVIG. The absence of widely applicable and validated risk-scoring systems in Kawasaki disease outside of Japan remains a limiting factor to identify high-risk children. Current evidence does not demonstrate any advantage of high-dose over low-dose ASA in the acute phase of Kawasaki disease, in preventing coronary artery aneurysms.
Determinants of Receiving Palliative Care and Ventilator Withdrawal Among Patients With Prolonged Mechanical Ventilation*
Authors: Chen Yang-Ching , Fan Hsien-Yu , Curtis J. Randall , Lee Oscar Kuang-Sheng , Liu Chih-Kuang , Huang Sheng-Jean
Published: June 2017

Objectives:

Increasing numbers of patients with prolonged mechanical ventilation generates a tremendous strain on healthcare systems. Patients with prolonged mechanical ventilation suffer from long-term poor quality of life. However, no study has ever explored the willingness to receive palliative care or terminal withdrawal and the factors influencing willingness.

Design:

Cross-sectional study.

Setting:

Five different hospitals of Taipei City Hospital system.

Patients:

Adult patients with ventilatory support for more than 60 days.

Interventions:

None.

Measurements and Main Results:

We identified the family members of 145 consecutive patients with prolonged mechanical ventilation in five hospitals of Taipei City Hospital system and enrolled family members for 106 patients (73.1%). We collected information from patient families’ regarding concepts (knowledge, attitude, and experiences) of palliative care, caregiver burden, family function, patient quality of life, and physician-family communications. From the medical record, we obtained duration of hospitalization, consciousness level, disease severity, medical cost, and the presence of do-not-resuscitate orders. The vast majority of family members agreed with the concept of palliative care (90.4%) with 17.3% of the family members agreeing to ventilator withdrawal currently and 67.5% terminally in anticipation of death. Approximately half of the family members regretted having chosen prolonged mechanical ventilation (56.7%). Reduced patient quality of life and increased family understanding of palliative care significantly associated with increased caregiver willingness to endorse palliative care and withdraw life-sustaining agents in anticipation of death. Longer duration of ventilator usage and hospitalization was associated with increased feelings of regret about choosing prolonged mechanical ventilation.

Conclusions:

During prolonged mechanical ventilation, physicians should thoroughly discuss its benefits and burdens. Families should be given the opportunity to discuss the circumstances under which they might request the implementation of palliative care or withdrawal of mechanical ventilation in order to avoid prolonging the dying process.
Factors Associated With Barcode Medication Administration Technology That Contribute to Patient Safety
Authors: Strudwick Gillian , Reisdorfer Emilene , Warnock Caroline , Kalia Kamini , Sulkers Heather , Clark Carrie , Booth Richard
Published: June 2017

In an effort to prevent medication errors, barcode medication administration technology has been implemented in many health care organizations. An integrative review was conducted to understand the effect of barcode medication administration technology on medication errors, and characteristics of use demonstrated by nurses contribute to medication safety. Addressing poor system use may support improved patient safety through the reduction of medication administration errors.
Effects of a Technology-Assisted Meditation Program on Healthcare Providers’ Interoceptive Awareness, Compassion Fatigue, and Burnout
Authors: Heeter Carrie , Lehto Rebecca , Allbritton Marcel , Day Tom , Wiseman Michelle
Published: June 2017

Research suggests that meditation can relieve stress, cultivate self-regulation skills, improve ability to focus, and modify risk for compassion fatigue (CF) and burnout in healthcare providers. However, studied interventions are time-consuming and combining disparate approaches, resulting in unclear mechanisms of effect. This pilot study examined a novel 6-week technology-assisted meditation program, coherently grounded in the system of yoga therapy that required minimal time. Five 10- to 12-minute meditations were offered via smartphone apps supported by biweekly e-mails. Hospice and palliative professionals at a Midwestern US healthcare network participated in the program (n = 36). Each meditation integrated attention, synchronized breath, gentle movements and a meditation focus. Weekly e-mails introduced a new meditation and reminded participants how and why to practice. The participants used the meditations a mean of 17.18(SD, 8.69) times. Paired t tests found significant presurvey to postsurvey improvements for CF/burnout (P < .05) and interoceptive awareness (P < .001). Participation significantly heightened perceived ability and propensity to direct attention to bodily sensations, increased awareness of physical sensations’ connections to emotions, and increased active body listening. The technology-assisted yoga therapy meditation program successfully motivated providers to meditate. The program required minimal time yet seemed to reduce CF/burnout and improve emotional awareness and self-regulation by heightening attention to present-moment bodily sensations.
End-of-Life Transitions and Hospice Utilization for Adolescents
Authors: Keim-Malpass Jessica , Lindley Lisa C.
Published: June 2017

Adolescents with life-limiting illnesses have intensive end-of-life trajectories and could benefit from initiation of hospice services. The medical home model, which includes having a usual source of primary care, may help facilitate quality outcomes at the end of life for adolescents. The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship between having a usual source of primary care on hospice utilization and end-of-life transitions among adolescents between 15 and 20 years with a life-limiting illness. A retrospective cohort design used 2007-2010 California Medicaid claims data (N = 585). Our dependent variables were hospice utilization (ie, hospice enrollment and hospice length of stay), and the independent variable was usual source of primary care. Multivariate regression techniques including least squares regression, multivariate logistic regression, and negative binomial regression were used in the analysis of the relationship between usual source of primary care and hospice utilization and end-of-life transitions. Ten percent of our sample used hospice services. Having a usual source of primary care was associated with an increase in hospice enrollment, hospice length of stay, and end-of-life transitions. Adolescents with a cancer diagnosis were more likely to enroll in hospice services. For adolescents at the end of life, having a usual source of primary care had a significant effect on hospice enrollment and length of stay. This study is among the first to demonstrate a relationship between primary care and hospice use among this vulnerable population.
Characterization of Risk-Taking in Adults With Bipolar Spectrum Disorders
Authors: Reinharth Jonathan , Braga Raphael , Serper Mark
Published: June 2017

Individuals with bipolar spectrum disorders experience higher morbidity and mortality rates relative to the general population because of increased commission of dangerous behaviors. Despite this impact, little is known about the overall rates of risk-taking behaviors in patients currently being treated for such illness. This study examined the frequency of a variety of risk-taking behaviors in 100 adults with bipolar spectrum disorders in an active outpatient psychiatric treatment. It was found that 70% of individuals assessed reported at least one risk-taking behavior over the preceding 7 days. Implications for assessment and intervention are discussed.
Bright birds are cautious: seasonally conspicuous plumage prompts risk avoidance by male superb fairy-wrens
Authors: McQueen Alexandra , Naimo Annalise C. , Teunissen Niki , Magrath Robert D. , Delhey Kaspar , Peters Anne
Published: June 2017

Increased predation risk is considered a cost of having conspicuous colours, affecting the anti-predator behaviour of colourful animals. However, this is difficult to test, as individual factors often covary with colour and behaviour. We used alarm call playback and behavioural observations to assess whether individual birds adjust their response to risk according to their plumage colour. Male superb fairy-wrens (
Malurus cyaneus
) change from a dull brown to conspicuous blue plumage each year, allowing the behaviour of different coloured birds to be compared while controlling for within-individual effects. Because the timing of colour change varies among males, blue and brown birds can also be compared at the same time of year, controlling for seasonal effects on behaviour. While blue, fairy-wrens fled more often in response to alarm calls, and took longer to emerge from cover. Blue fairy-wrens also spent more time foraging in cover and being vigilant. Group members appeared to benefit from the presence of blue males, as they reduced their response to alarms, and allocated less time to sentinel behaviour when a blue male was close by. We suggest that fairy-wrens perceive themselves to be at a higher risk of predation while in conspicuous plumage and adjust their behaviour accordingly.
Germline BRCA2 mutations detected in pediatric sequencing studies impact parents’ evaluation and care
Authors: Walsh Michael F. , Kennedy Jennifer , Harlan Megan , Kentsis Alex , Shukla Neerav , Musinsky Jacob , Roberts Stephen , Kung Andrew L. , Robson Mark , Kushner Brian H. , Meyers Paul , Offit Kenneth
Published: June 2017

There has been no indication to test for BRCA1/2 in children (with the rare exception of Fanconi anemia) as screening begins in adult years and there is a potential to induce anxiety related to adult-onset cancers. However, in the setting of pediatric cancer, with increasing utility and frequency of companion tumor-normal sequencing without regard for phenotype and with BRCA1/2 included in tumor profiling panels, germline mutations in BRCA1/2 and other DNA damage repair genes have been found. When mutations in these genes are revealed, there are implications for immediate family members. Here we present two children in whom BRCA2 mutations identified through tumor sequencing prompted parental genetic testing and medical action. These cases illustrate the potential importance of including a matched normal DNA sample when performing tumor profiling of pediatric cancer patients to ensure optimal care.
Crystal structure of the N-terminal domain of VqsR fromPseudomonas aeruginosaat 2.1 Å resolution
Authors: He Qing , Wang Kang , Su Tiantian , Wang Feng , Gu Lichuan , Xu Sujuan
Published: June 2017

VqsR is a quorum-sensing (QS) transcriptional regulator which controls QS systems (las,rhlandpqs) by directly downregulating the expression ofqscRinPseudomonas aeruginosa. As a member of the LuxR family of proteins, VqsR shares the common motif of a helix–turn–helix (HTH)-type DNA-binding domain at the C-terminus, while the function of its N-terminal domain remains obscure. Here, the crystal structure of the N-terminal domain of VqsR (VqsR-N; residues 1–193) was determined at a resolution of 2.1 Å. The structure is folded into a regular α–β–α sandwich topology, which is similar to the ligand-binding domain (LBD) of the LuxR-type QS receptors. Although their sequence similarity is very low, structural comparison reveals that VqsR-N has a conserved enclosed cavity which could recognize acyl-homoserine lactones (AHLs) as in other LuxR-type AHL receptors. The structure suggests that VqsR could be a potential AHL receptor.
Factors affecting the amplitude of the τ angle in proteins: a revisitation
Authors: Balasco Nicole , Esposito Luciana , Vitagliano Luigi
Published: June 2017

The protein folded state is the result of the fine balance of a variety of different forces. Even minor structural perturbations may have a significant impact on the stability of these macromolecules. Studies carried out in recent decades have led to the convergent view that proteins are endowed with a flexible spine. One of the open issues related to protein local backbone geometry is the identification of the factors that influence the amplitude of the τ (N—Cα—C) angle. Here, statistical analyses performed on an updated ensemble of X-ray protein structures by dissecting the contribution of the major factors that can potentially influence the local backbone geometry of proteins are reported. The data clearly indicate that the local backbone conformation has a prominent impact on the modulation of the τ angle. Therefore, a proper assessment of the impact of the other potential factors can only be appropriately evaluated when small (φ, ψ) regions are considered. Here, it is shown that when the contribution of the backbone conformation is removed by considering small (φ, ψ) areas, an impact of secondary structure, as defined byDSSP, and/or the residue type on τ is still detectable, although to a limited extent. Indeed, distinct τ-value distributions are detected for Pro/Gly and β-branched (Ile/Val) residues. The key role of the local backbone conformation highlighted here supports the use of variable local backbone geometry in protein refinement protocols.
Farmers’ self-reported bargaining power and price heterogeneity
Authors: Fałkowski Jan , Malak-Rawlikowska Agata , Milczarek-Andrzejewska Dominika
Published: June 2017

Purpose

While it is commonly argued that food supply chains are characterized by severe imbalances of power between contracting parties, there is an insufficient understanding of the factors affecting the negotiating position of farmers. The purpose of this paper is to provide quantitative evidence documenting the position of farmers and to explain variation in farm gate prices in the dairy supply chain by using unique micro-survey data from Poland.

Design/methodology/approach

The bargaining power of farmers is elicited from their self-reported assessment about how confident they feel in their relationships with both the processing industry and input suppliers.

Findings

Using econometric modelling, it is shown that farmers who perceive themselves as having a relatively “strong position” in the food chain receive a higher milk price from dairy companies.

Research limitations/implications

While this result comes with some caveats, it suggests that the self-reported beliefs farmers hold about relations with their contractors may reveal additional insights into the distribution of power throughout the food chain.

Originality/value

Compared to the existing studies, the paper offers two innovations. First, to construct a proxy for farmers’ bargaining power, their subjective opinion on how easy they could be substituted for by their contractors is used. In effect, the paper goes beyond the standard measures which focus on farm size or its location. Second, it investigates farmers’ relationships vis-à-vis both processing industry and input suppliers. Consequently, this paper is the first to analyze power relationships by explicitly taking into account three stages of the supply chain.
Institutional influences on HRM in the Asian business environment: the case of Indonesia
Authors: Rupidara Neil Semuel , Darby Roger
Published: June 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyse the isomorphism phenomenon in the Indonesian HR field. It also attempts to identify characteristics of a highly isomorphic field which tend to be overlooked in institutional analysis.

Design/methodology/approach

The research was conducted within a qualitative, interpretive paradigm. Both primary and secondary data sources were utilized in this study. Primary data were obtained from more than 56 interviews, including informal talks and observations. Two types of interviews were conducted, i.e., face to face, narrative, open-ended interviews with HR professionals, consultants and academics and e-mail interviews with several of the HR professionals who were involved in several HR mailing lists in Indonesia.

Findings

HR field in Indonesia shows how institutional influences work, characterized by the diffusion and adoption of human resource practices among foreign multinational and large local companies in Indonesia. HR actors within organizations interact with multiple, and often competing, ideas within complex and overlapping multi-institutional settings and take decisions explained by the characteristics of Indonesian HRM as an isomorphic field.

Research limitations/implications

Further research is needed to be conducted in similar isomorphic fields to identify the characteristics and whether or not they confirm the results of this research. Further research into the HR field in Indonesia is also suggested to uncover deep-seated institutional logics and mechanisms that can facilitate or constrain future changes in the field. As a transitional field usually contains different, sometimes conflicting, institutional pressures in influencing the direction of change, a better knowledge of how the conflicting forces work is needed to provide understanding about how to steer a well-informed institutional change.

Practical implications

Involvement in the networks of diffusion of ideas can benefit the HR professionals of participating firms. The study suggests an active but critical participation in the networks of HR ideas diffusion to obtain greater benefits. The study has shown the existence of different channels of HR knowledge transfer. HR actors therefore need to decide which channels might be more effective in the knowledge transfer. Because the different sources of ideas may provide conflicting ideas, HR actors may need to be mindful in their participation in the different networks to take advantage of them, rather than being confused by the conflicting forces.

Originality/value

This research contributes empirically to studies of isomorphism of HRM practices by providing evidence that connects the micro-organizational and the broader organizational field levels. A significant methodological contribution of this research is the use of observations and the participation in professionally oriented electronic mail-list groups as a method of investigating knowledge diffusion within a field.
Following Snowden around the World
Authors: Adams Andrew A. , Murata Kiyoshi , Fukuta Yasunori , Orito Yohko , Lara Palma Ana María
Published: June 2017

Purpose

A survey of the attitudes of students in eight countries towards the revelations of mass surveillance by the US’ NSA and the UK’s GCHQ has been described in an introductory paper and seven country-specific papers (The People’s Republic of China and Taiwan are combined in a single paper). This paper aims to present a comparison of the results from these countries and draws conclusions about the similarities and differences noted.

Design/methodology/approach

A questionnaire was deployed in Germany, Japan, Mexico, New Zealand, The People’s Republic of China, Spain, Sweden and Taiwan. The original survey was in English, translated into German, Japanese and Chinese for relevant countries. The survey consists of a combination of Likert scale, Yes/no and free-text responses. The results are quantitatively analysed using appropriate statistical tools and the qualitative answers are interpreted (including, where appropriate, consolidated into quantitative results).

Findings

There are significant differences between respondents in the countries surveyed with respect to their general privacy attitudes and their willingness to follow Snowden’s lead, even where they believe his actions served the public good.

Research limitations/implications

Owing to resource limitations, only university students were surveyed. In some countries (Germany and New Zealand), the relatively small number of respondents limits the ability to make meaningful statistical comparisons between respondents from those countries and from elsewhere on some issues.

Practical implications

Snowden’s actions are generally seen as laudable and having had positive results, among the respondents surveyed. Such results should give pause to governments seeking to expand mass surveillance by government entities.

Originality/value

There have been few surveys regarding attitudes to Snowden’s revelations, despite the significant press attention and political actions that have flowed from it. The context of attitudes to both the actions he revealed and the act of revelation itself is useful in constructing political and philosophical arguments about the balance between surveillance activity for state security and the privacy of individual citizens.
Consumer responses to covert advertising in social media
Authors: Göbel Fabian , Meyer Anton , Ramaseshan B. , Bartsch Silke
Published: June 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to contribute to marketing communications literature by exploring consumer responses to covert advertising (CA) in a social media context.

Design/methodology/approach

The persuasion knowledge model was used to explore the impact of CA on brand evaluations. A factorial design experiment was conducted in a social media context (YouTube).

Findings

The results of the study show that triggering knowledge about CA changes the way consumers respond to unfamiliar brands that use such tactics. This implies that for unfamiliar brands, with future development of persuasion knowledge, CA in social media will not only be ineffective but also detrimental with damaging effects on the brand.

Research limitations/implications

An important contribution of this study lies in the application of the persuasion knowledge model to social media context.

Practical implications

The results indicate that firms should desist from covert product and brand communications in social media contexts, and instead employ disclosed brand communications.

Originality/value

Given that the effects of CA have not been investigated in an online context, this study makes a unique contribution to brand communications research by providing valuable insights and better understanding of the effects of CA in social media, specifically YouTube.
Ensuring a level playing field: creating an information literacy exam for transfer students
Authors: Yeager Vonzell , Pemberton Anne E.
Published: June 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to highlight the steps taken by the library, English faculty and administrative stakeholders to create an information literacy exam for transfer students.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper outlines the need for the exam, the student learning outcomes assessed by the exam, the process by which test questions were created and the technology used to create and deliver the exam.

Findings

Experiences and suggestions relevant to developing an information literacy exam and a related website portal and tutorials are provided.

Originality/value

The report will have significant value to anyone considering implementing their own original information literacy exam and those seeking advice on test question creation and development.
Contrasting the governance of supply chains with and without geographical indications: complementarity between levels
Authors: Fernández-Barcala Marta , González-Díaz Manuel , Raynaud Emmanuel
Published: June 2017

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to explain the organizational changes along supply chains when a geographical brand, i.e. a place name that has value for commercial purposes, becomes a geographical indication (GI).

Design/methodology/approach

Using a case study research design, this paper compares GI vs non-GI supply chains in the European Union and describes the organizational changes that occur in supply chains when a GI is adopted.

Findings

When a GI is adopted, an additional “public” level of governance is added along the supply chain that forces it to reallocate and specialize quality controls between the public and private levels of governance to avoid redundancies and to adopt more market-oriented mechanisms of governance in dyadic relationships. The paper argues that these changes occur because the private and public levels of governance complement one another.

Research limitations/implications

More aspects of supply chain management (the power balance or relationship stability) and a more systematic longitudinal analysis using supply chains in various agrifood industries should be considered to generalize the conclusions. An econometric analysis formally testing the main conclusions (propositions) is also required.

Practical implications

The changes needed to successfully adopt a GI are identified, and an explanatory map of these changes is offered.

Originality/value

The structural governance tensions created by the use of common-pool resources within supply chains are explored. It is hypothesized, first, that when a “common-pool resource”, namely, a geographical name, is used in a supply chain, some type of public level of governance that promotes cooperation is required to preserve its value. Second, this public level of governance complements the dyadic mechanisms of governance, requiring the specialization and reallocation of quality controls and the move toward more market-oriented transactions.
Scoping study investigating stakeholder perceptions and use of school canteens in an Australian city
Authors: Lawlis Tanya , Eckley Dionne , Jamieson Maggie , Knox Melissa
Published: June 2017

Aim

To investigate stakeholder perceptions of healthy food availability in school canteens, the promotion of healthy foods and canteen policy compliance.

Methods

This is a cross‐sectional study of Catholic and independent primary and high schools comprising three investigative phases: (i) survey of 39 schools, (ii) survey of canteen managers and parents from 10 schools and (iii) an audit of school menus against National Healthy School Canteen Guidelines.

Results

Total participants included: 6 principals, no canteen mangers and 86 parents from two schools; 24 menus were audited. Schools are committed to supporting healthy eating, with participants agreeing canteens should follow the National Health School Canteen Guidelines. A total of 94% of parents (n = 81/86) indicated that their children buy food from the school canteen, with commonly purchased items mostly classified as ‘red’. Despite this food choice, parents (n = 32/48) indicated they had a responsibility to encourage healthy eating. No school canteen menu comprised +50% ‘green’ foods and thus did not comply with the National Healthy School Canteen Guidelines.

Conclusions

Despite the intense focus on school canteens to sell healthy food, little has changed in terms of student's food choices and the barriers to providing healthy options. The external environment and divided parental buy‐in impact the canteen's ability to comply with guidelines. A holistic approach involving all stakeholder levels is required to successfully achieve a healthy school canteen environment and positively influence student's food habits and choices.
Macrophage Migration Inhibitory Factor (MIF) Gene Promotor Polymorphism Is Associated with Increased Fibrosis in Biliary Atresia Patients, but Not with Disease Susceptibility
Authors: Sadek Khaled H. , Ezzat Sameera , Abdel‐Aziz Samira A. , Alaraby Hanaa , Mosbeh Asmaa , Abdel‐Rahman Mohamed H.
Published: June 2017

Two polymorphisms, rs755622 and rs5844572, in the promoter region of the macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) gene influence the basal and/or induced transcriptional activity and have been linked to several inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between these two polymorphisms and disease susceptibility in patients with biliary atresia (BA). Allele frequencies of rs755622 and rs5844572 were assessed in 60 Egyptian infants with a confirmed diagnosis of BA. DNA was extracted from archival material. For the rs755622, samples were tested using Taqman real‐time PCR, and for the rs5844572, samples were tested using fluorescence‐based genotyping. The allele frequency in the general population was assessed in 141 healthy adults from the same geographical location. No statistical differences were observed in the allele frequencies of either rs755622 or rs5844572 between BA patients and controls. The homozygous and heterozygous short repeats (5/5, or 5/X) of rs5844572 were observed more frequently (16/28, 57.1%) in BA patients with mild to moderate fibrosis compared with those with marked fibrosis (10/32, 31.3%). The difference was statistically significant (P  =  0.032). In conclusion, we observed no association between MIF rs755622 and rs5844572 polymorphisms and susceptibility to BA; however, the rs5844572 could be linked to the rate of progression of the disease and extent of fibrosis.
Rapid response team calls to obstetric patients in a busy quaternary maternity hospital
Authors: Crozier Timothy M. , Galt Pauline , Wilson Stuart J. , Wallace Euan M.
Published: June 2017

Aims

There is limited published information regarding intensive care unit (ICU) led rapid response team (RRT) calls to obstetric patients. We examined the characteristics of RRT calls to obstetric patients at a tertiary teaching hospital.

Methods

Details of calls to pregnant and postpartum patients between October 2010 and June 2014 were obtained from the hospital RRT database. Each was retrospectively examined for data on patient demographics, call trigger, interventions and outcomes. Local obstetric‐specific escalation practices (Code Pink/Green) for obstetrical concerns (not mandating maternal instability/involvement of the ICU team), were excluded.

Results

There were 106 RRT calls logged during 43 months, and 97 had data available for analysis. Women currently pregnant accounted for 33% of calls and postpartum women 67%, with nearly half of these occurring more than 24 h post‐delivery. The most common reason (29% of calls) for calling the RRT was hypotension, followed by ‘concern about patient’ (21%) and decreased Glasgow Coma Score (GCS) (17%). An escalation in the environment of care occurred after 32% of calls, with approximately 11% of calls necessitating direct ICU admission. Twenty‐three percent of all calls were to women who had an ICU admission during their hospital stay. Among the cohort who received an RRT call, there was one maternal and three neonatal deaths.

Conclusion

At our institution generic RRT calls are called to both pregnant and postpartum women, and frequently result in an escalation in the care environment. Further study is required to understand better the specific needs of this important population.
Amplifying Environmental Politics: Ocean Noise
Authors: Ritts Max
Published: June 2017

Scientific evidence suggests that rising levels of anthropogenic underwater sound (“ocean noise”) produced by industrial activities are causing a range of injuries to marine animals—in particular, whales. These developments have forced states and development proponents into acknowledging ocean noise as a threat to marine economic activity. This paper delivers a Gramsci‐inspired critique of the modernizations of ocean noise regulation being wrought by science, state and politics. Gramsci was acutely interested in the dynamic and social nature of scientific research, and his writings affirm science's powers and ambitions. At the same time, he was keen to observe how science participates in the process he called hegemony. Using examples drawn from Canada's West Coast, I suggest that capital is engaging ocean noise not only as a regulatory problem issuing from legal duties and legitimacy concerns, but opportunities linked to the commercialization of ocean science.
In Unions We Trust! Analysing Confidence in Unions across Europe
Authors: Frangi Lorenzo , Koos Sebastian , Hadziabdic Sinisa
Published: June 2017

Public institutions and trade unions in particular are often portrayed as facing a deep crisis. In order to better understand to what extent unions are still perceived as legitimate institutions from the society as a whole (working and non‐working individuals), we analyse the determinants of confidence in unions across 14 European countries between 1981 and 2009. Confidence in unions is explained through individual‐level variables (by a rational and an ideational mechanism) and contextual‐level factors (relevant economic and employment relations characteristics). Using data from the European Values Study (EVS) merged with contextual datasets, we develop a series of regression models to examine the main determinants of confidence in unions. We demonstrate that confidence in unions cannot only be traced back to the support from members and left‐wing oriented individuals but it is also related to non‐working individuals and vulnerable social groups, in particular when confronted with economic shocks. Our findings challenge both the ‘crisis of confidence’ in institutions and the ‘crisis of unionism’ narratives. Implications for union representation and organizing strategies are discussed.
Short‐Time Work and Employment Stability: Evidence from a Policy Change
Authors: Arranz José M. , García‐Serrano Carlos , Hernanz Virginia
Published: June 2017

This paper investigates whether short‐time work (STW) programmes achieve their stated goal of being devices intended to preserve jobs and keep workers employed in times of crisis. Our identification strategy exploits a change in the financial incentives provided to employers and employees for the temporary suspension of work contracts or the reduction of working time. We use longitudinal administrative data and estimate difference‐in‐differences regressions and instrumental variable bivariate probit models with endogenous covariates, which try to take account of the potential endogeneity of participation in STW. Our results suggest that discretionary policy changes in the incentives of STW schemes can be effective in the short run but they lose their ability when the decline in demand and the lack of work are more permanent.
AQX‐1125, small molecule SHIP1 activator inhibits bleomycin‐induced pulmonary fibrosis
Authors: Cross Jennifer , Stenton Grant R , Harwig Curtis , Szabo Csaba , Genovese Tiziana , Di Paola Rosanna , Esposito Emanuale , Cuzzocrea Salvatore , Mackenzie Lloyd F
Published: June 2017

Background and Purpose

The phosphatase SHIP1 negatively regulates the PI3K pathway, and its predominant expression within cells of the haematopoietic compartment makes SHIP1 activation a novel strategy to limit inflammatory signalling generated through PI3K. AQX‐1125 is the only clinical‐stage, orally administered, SHIP1 activator. Here, we demonstrate the prophylactic and therapeutic effects of AQX‐1125, in a mouse model of bleomycin‐induced lung fibrosis.

Experimental Approach

For prophylactic evaluation, AQX‐1125 (3, 10 or 30 mg·kg−1·d−1, p.o.) or dexamethasone (1 mg·kg−1·d−1, i.p.) were given to CD‐1 mice starting 3 days before intratracheal administration of bleomycin (0.1 IU per mouse) and continued daily for 7 or 21 days. Therapeutic potentials of AQX‐1125 (3, 10 or 30 mg·kg−1·d−1, p.o.) or pirfenidone (90 mg·kg−1·d−1, p.o.) were assessed by initiating treatment 13 days after bleomycin instillation and continuing until day 28.

Key Results

Given prophylactically, AQX‐1125 (10 and 30 mg·kg−1) reduced histopathological changes in lungs, 7 and 21 days following bleomycin‐induced injury. At the same doses, AQX‐1125 reduced the number of total leukocytes, neutrophil activity, TGF‐β immunoreactivity and soluble collagen in lungs. Administered therapeutically, AQX‐1125 (10 and 30 mg·kg−1) improved lung histopathology, cellular infiltration and reduced lung collagen content. At 30 mg·kg−1, the effects of AQX‐1125 were similar to those of pirfenidone (90 mg·kg−1) with corresponding improvements in disease severity.

Conclusions and Implications

AQX‐1125 prevented bleomycin‐induced lung injury during the inflammatory and fibrotic phases. AQX‐1125, given therapeutically, modified disease progression and improved survival, as effectively as pirfenidone.
Family Science Talk in Museums: Predicting Children's Engagement From Variations in Talk and Activity
Authors: Callanan Maureen A. , Castañeda Claudia L. , Luce Megan R. , Martin Jennifer L.
Published: June 2017

Children's developing reasoning skills are better understood within the context of their social and cultural lives. As part of a research–museum partnership, this article reports a study exploring science‐relevant conversations of 82 families, with children between 3 and 11 years, while visiting a children's museum exhibit about mammoth bones, and in a focused one‐on‐one exploration of a “mystery object.” Parents' use of a variety of types of science talk predicted children's conceptual engagement in the exhibit, but interestingly, different types of parent talk predicted children's engagement depending on the order of the two activities. The findings illustrate the importance of studying children's thinking in real‐world contexts and inform creation of effective real‐world science experiences for children and families.
Serpentinites and serpentinites: Variety of origins and emplacement mechanisms of serpentinite bodies in the California Cordillera
Authors: Wakabayashi John
Published: June 2017

Most serpentinitized peridotite in orogenic belts is derived from oceanic lithosphere, but the emplacement mechanisms of these rocks vary greatly, as illustrated by the nature of these rock bodies and their contacts. The diverse emplacement mechanisms have important implications for connecting ophiolitic rock occurrences to large‐scale orogenic processes. In the California Cordillera, the largest bodies of ultramafic rocks are parts of ophiolite sheets, such as the Coast Range ophiolite (CRO), that were part of the upper plate of an oceanic subduction system. Such units differ from smaller bodies within subduction complexes such as the Franciscan Complex that were transferred from the subducting plate to the subduction complex during accretion. Some intra‐subduction complex ultramafic rocks occur as nearly block‐free sheets within the Franciscan Complex, and as a part of mafic–ultramafic imbricates or broken formations within the Shoo Fly Complex of the northern Sierra Nevada. Franciscan Complex serpentinite also occurs as sedimentary serpentinite mélange that was partly subducted after deposition in the trench via submarine sliding. Such mélanges include blocks that record older and higher grade metamorphism than the matrix. Sedimentary serpentinite mélange that includes high‐pressure metamorphic blocks is also found in the basal Great Valley Group forearc basin deposits depositionally overlie the CRO. Distinguishing the different serpentinite origins is difficult in the California Cordillera even though a terminal continental collision did not affect this orogenic belt. In more typical orogenic belts with greater post‐subduction disruption, distinction between the types of serpentinite occurrences presents a greater challenge.
Prevention is better than cure: Addressing anti‐vaccine conspiracy theories
Authors: Jolley Daniel , Douglas Karen M.
Published: June 2017

The current research tested if explicit anti‐conspiracy arguments could be an effective method of addressing the potentially harmful effects of anti‐vaccine conspiracy theories. In two studies, participants were presented with anti‐conspiracy arguments either before, or after reading arguments in favor of popular conspiracy theories concerning vaccination. In both studies, anti‐conspiracy arguments increased intentions to vaccinate a fictional child but only when presented prior to conspiracy theories. This effect was mediated by belief in anti‐vaccine conspiracy theories and the perception that vaccines are dangerous. These findings suggest that people can be inoculated against the potentially harmful effects of anti‐vaccine conspiracy theories, but that once they are established, the conspiracy theories may be difficult to correct.
Minimum standards on prevention, diagnosis and treatment of occupational and work‐related skin diseases in Europe – position paper of the COST Action StanDerm (TD 1206)
Authors: Alfonso J.H. , Bauer A. , Bensefa‐Colas L. , Boman A. , Bubas M. , Constandt L. , Crepy M.N. , Goncalo M. , Macan J. , Mahler V. , Mijakoski D. , Ramada Rodilla J.M. , Rustemeyer T. , Spring P. , John S.M. , Uter W. , Wilkinson M. , Giménez‐Arnau A.M.
Published: June 2017

Background

Skin diseases constitute up to 40% of all notified occupational diseases in most European countries, predominantly comprising contact dermatitis, contact urticaria, and skin cancer. While insufficient prevention of work‐related skin diseases (WRSD) is a top‐priority problem in Europe, common standards for prevention of these conditions are lacking.

Objective

To develop common European standards on prevention and management of WRSD and occupational skin diseases (OSD).

Method

Consensus amongst experts within occupational dermatology was achieved with regard to the definition of minimum evidence‐based standards on prevention and management of WRSD/OSD.

Results

By definition, WRSDs/OSDs are (partially or fully) caused by occupational exposure. The definition of OSD sensu stricto additionally includes diverging national legal requirements, with an impact on registration, prevention, management, and compensation. With the implementation of the classification of WRSD/OSD in the International Classification of Diseases (ICD) 11th Revision in future, a valid surveillance and comparability across countries will be possible. Currently, WRDS and OSD are still under‐reported. Depending on legislation and regulations, huge differences exist in notification procedures in Europe, although notification is crucial to prevent chronic and relapsing disease. Facilities for early diagnosis, essential for individual patient management, should be based on existing guidelines and include a multidisciplinary approach. Patch testing is essential if contact dermatitis persists or relapses. Workplace exposure assessment of WRSD/OSD requires full labelling of product ingredients on material safety data sheets helping to identify allergens, irritants and skin carcinogens. Comparable standards in primary, secondary and tertiary prevention must be established in Europe to reduce the burden of WRSD/OSD in Europe.

Conclusion

The adoption of common European standards on prevention of WRSD/OSD will contribute to reduce the incidence of OSD and their socio‐economic burden.