bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effect of choice on motivation for young children on the autism spectrum during discrete trial teaching
Authors: Elliott Ceri , Dillenburger Karola
Published: June 2014

Self‐determination and decision‐making are acknowledged internationally as key rights of persons with disabilities and should play an important role in the development of educational plans and procedures. Not only is the chance for individuals with developmental disabilities to select their own tasks, leisure activities or reinforcers a valuable way of enhancing rights‐based education and personal dignity, but choice‐making opportunities may also function as a useful clinical or educational tool if they actually improve the efficacy of programmes aimed at the acquisition of socially relevant behaviours and life skills or the reduction of challenging behaviours.

The study reported here assessed whether or not choice affected effectiveness of an educational procedure for three children on the autism spectrum. Following a preference assessment, a number of discrete teaching trials were conducted with each child and, contingent upon targeted responses, either the child or the therapist selected one of three preferred reinforcer items. Reinforcer choice did not affect intervention effectiveness for two of the children; however, performance and motivation improved for the third child. Results re‐affirmed the importance of thorough preference assessments prior to intervention and showed that additional stimulus choice contingent on the target response may improve motivation and outcomes for some children.
Comparison of bacterial community structure and dynamics during the thermophilic composting of different types of solid wastes: anaerobic digestion residue, pig manure and chicken manure
Authors: Song Caihong , Li Mingxiao , Jia Xuan , Wei Zimin , Zhao Yue , Xi Beidou , Zhu Chaowei , Liu Dongming
Published: June 2014

This study investigated the impact of composting substrate types on the bacterial community structure and dynamics during composting processes. To this end, pig manure (PM), chicken manure (CM), a mixture of PM and CM (PM + CM), and a mixture of PM, CM and anaerobic digestion residue (ADR) (PM + CM + ADR) were selected for thermophilic composting. The bacterial community structure and dynamics during the composting process were detected and analysed by polymerase chain reaction–denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE) coupled with a statistic analysis. The physical‐chemical analyses indicated that compared to single‐material composting (PM, CM), co‐composting (PM + CM, PM + CM + ADR) could promote the degradation of organic matter and strengthen the ability of conserving nitrogen. A DGGE profile and statistical analysis demonstrated that co‐composting, especially PM + CM + ADR, could improve the bacterial community structure and functional diversity, even in the thermophilic stage. Therefore, co‐composting could weaken the screening effect of high temperature on bacterial communities. Dominant sequencing analyses indicated a dramatic shift in the dominant bacterial communities from single‐material composting to co‐composting. Notably, compared with PM, PM + CM increased the quantity of xylan‐degrading bacteria and reduced the quantity of human pathogens.
The median effective dose of dexmedetomidine for laryngeal mask airway insertion with propofol 2.0 mg/kg
Authors: KWAK H. J. , MIN S. K. , YOO J. Y. , PARK K. H. , KIM J. Y.
Published: June 2014

Background

Dexmedetomidine can be used as a co‐induction agent to facilitate laryngeal mask airway (LMA) insertion with minimal effect on respiratory function. The purpose of the study was to determine the median effective dose (ED50) of dexmedetomidine to facilitate LMA insertion during anaesthesia induction with propofol 2.0 mg/kg without neuromuscular blockade.

Methods

Twenty‐two patients, whose American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status was I or II with ages between 18 and 60 years undergoing minor orthopaedic or gynaecological surgery, were enrolled. After an injection of pre‐determined bolus dose of dexmedetomidine over 2 min, anaesthesia was induced with propofol 2.0 mg/kg. The modified Dixon's up‐and‐down method was used to determine the bolus dose of dexmedetomidine, starting from 0.5 μg/kg (step size; 0.1 μg/kg). LMA insertion was conducted 90 s after the propofol injection, and the response of patients was categorized as either ‘success’ or ‘failure.’

Results

Insertion of the LMA was unsuccessful in 12 of 22 patients. The ED50 (95% confidence interval) of dexmedetomidine for successful LMA insertion with propofol 2.0 mg/kg was 0.55 (0.44–0.66) μg/kg. Bradycardia occurred in four patients, and seven patients had an apneic episode.

Conclusion

The single dose of dexmedetomidine for successful LMA insertion to be feasible in 50% of patients was 0.55 μg/kg during anaesthesia induction with propofol 2 mg/kg.
Staging systems in bipolar disorder: an International Society for Bipolar Disorders Task Force Report
Authors: Kapczinski F. , Magalhães P. V. S. , Balanzá‐Martinez V. , Dias V. V. , Frangou S. , Gama C. S. , Gonzalez‐Pinto A. , Grande I. , Ha K. , Kauer‐Sant'Anna M. , Kunz M. , Kupka R. , Leboyer M. , Lopez‐Jaramillo C. , Post R. M. , Rybakowski J. K. , Scott J. , Strejilevitch S. , Tohen M. , Vazquez G. , Yatham L. , Vieta E. , Berk M.
Published: June 2014

Objective

We discuss the rationale behind staging systems described specifically for bipolar disorders. Current applications, future directions and research gaps in clinical staging models for bipolar disorders are outlined.

Method

We reviewed the literature pertaining to bipolar disorders, focusing on the first episode onwards. We systematically searched data on staging models for bipolar disorders and allied studies that could inform the concept of staging.

Results

We report on several dimensions that are relevant to staging concepts in bipolar disorder. We consider whether staging offers a refinement to current diagnoses by reviewing clinical studies of treatment and functioning and the potential utility of neurocognitive, neuroimaging and peripheral biomarkers.

Conclusion

Most studies to date indicate that globally defined late‐stage patients have a worse overall prognosis and poorer response to standard treatment, consistent with patterns for end‐stage medical disorders. We believe it is possible at this juncture to speak broadly of ‘early’‐ and ‘late’‐stage bipolar disorder. Next steps require further collaborative efforts to consider the details of preillness onset and intermediary stages, and how many additional stages are optimal.
Estimated trans‐lamina cribrosa pressure difference versus intraocular pressure as biomarker for open‐angle glaucoma. The Beijing Eye Study 2011
Authors: Jonas Jost B. , Wang Ning Li , Wang Ya Xing , You Qi Sheng , Xie Xiao Bin , Yang Di Ya , Xu Liang
Published: June 2014

Purpose

To examine whether an estimated trans‐lamina cribrosa pressure difference (TLCPD) better than intraocular pressure (IOP) correlated with markers for glaucoma.

Methods

The population‐based Beijing Eye Study 2011 included 3468 individuals. Cerebrospinal fluid pressure (CSFP) was calculated as CSFP [mmHg] = 0.44 × Body Mass Index [kg/m2] + 0.16 × Diastolic Blood Pressure [mmHg] − 0.18 × Age [Years] − 1.91. TLCPD was IOP–CSFP.

Results

In the non‐glaucomatous population, mean TLCPD was 5.8 ± 4.1 mmHg and mean estimated CSFP was 8.9 ± 3.7 mmHg. IOP was higher (p = 0.008), CSFP was lower (p < 0.001), and TLCPD was (p < 0.001) higher in the glaucoma group than in the non‐glaucomatous group. The intergroup difference was highest for TLCPD (2.1 mmHg) followed by CSFP (1.7 mmHg) and IOP (0.4 mmHg). Open‐angle glaucoma (OAG) was associated with higher TLCPD [p < 0.001; odds ratio (OR): 1.14; 95% confidence intervals (CI): 1.08, 1.19] but not with IOP (p = 0.22; OR: 0.96; 95% CI: 0.89, 1.03). In contrast, angle‐closure glaucoma (ACG) was associated with higher IOP (p = 0.03; B: 0.14; OR: 1.15; 95% CI: 1.01, 1.30) but not with TLCPD (p = 0.98), after adjustment for age and anterior chamber depth. Retinal nerve fibre layer thickness was associated with lower TLCPD (p = 0.036) but not with IOP (p = 0.96), after adjusting for gender, age, region of habitation, optic disc area and refractive error. Neuroretinal area and volume were associated with smaller TLCPD (p = 0.002, and p < 0.001, respectively), after adjusting for gender, optic disc area and refractive error, but not with IOP (p = 0.43 and p = 0.25, resp.).

Conclusions

In OAG, but not in ACG, calculated TLCPD versus IOP showed a better association with glaucoma presence and amount of glaucomatous optic neuropathy. It supports the notion of a potential role of low CSFP in the pathogenesis of OAG.
A cow‐level association of ruminal pH on body condition score, serum beta‐hydroxybutyrate and postpartum disorders in Thai dairy cattle
Authors: Chaidate Inchaisri , Somchai Chanpongsang , Jos Noordhuizen , Henk Hogeveen
Published: June 2014

Subacute ruminal acidosis in dairy cows occurs when ruminal pH is below about 5.5. However, the exact threshold level of ruminal pH affecting cow health is still in debate. This investigation was carried out in 505 cows within 31 farms. The postpartum disorders, including dystocia, retained placenta, anestrus, cystic ovary, metritis, clinical mastitis and lameness, were analyzed. Ruminal pH, serum beta‐hydroxy butyrate (SBHB), serum urea nitrogen and body condition score (BCS) were measured once during the 3 to 6 weeks postpartum, while BCS was determined once more at 1 week before calving. Ruminal pH was determinded by ruminocentesis technique. The ruminal pH was evaluated to study the association with BCS, SBHB and postpartum disorders using linear regression in a generalized linear mixed model with farm as a random effect. The results show that low ruminal pH was associated with dystocia, metritis and lameness. Moreover, a low ruminal pH can be found in cows with a high loss of BCS after calving and also in cows with low SBHB postpartum. These findings confirmed the feasibility of the ruminocentesis technique and the association of low ruminal pH on various postpartum disorders at the individual cow level. However, the consequences of low ruminal pH on dairy cow health still needs more exploration for a better understanding of the physiological mechanisms.
Bayesian semiparametric regression in the presence of conditionally heteroscedastic measurement and regression errors
Authors: Sarkar Abhra , Mallick Bani K. , Carroll Raymond J.
Published: June 2014

We consider the problem of robust estimation of the regression relationship between a response and a covariate based on sample in which precise measurements on the covariate are not available but error‐prone surrogates for the unobserved covariate are available for each sampled unit. Existing methods often make restrictive and unrealistic assumptions about the density of the covariate and the densities of the regression and the measurement errors, for example, normality and, for the latter two, also homoscedasticity and thus independence from the covariate. In this article we describe Bayesian semiparametric methodology based on mixtures of B‐splines and mixtures induced by Dirichlet processes that relaxes these restrictive assumptions. In particular, our models for the aforementioned densities adapt to asymmetry, heavy tails and multimodality. The models for the densities of regression and measurement errors also accommodate conditional heteroscedasticity. In simulation experiments, our method vastly outperforms existing methods. We apply our method to data from nutritional epidemiology.
A Spatial Assessment of Dentist Supply in Ontario, Canada
Authors: Meyer Stephen P.
Published: June 2014

The geographic patterns of dentists have seldom been studied beyond very broad assessment. This article demonstrates, with location quotient and hot‐spot analyses, the unevenness of general dentist and dental specialist resources throughout the Canadian province of Ontario and the presence of “dental clusters” within the metropolitan areas of Toronto, Ottawa, Hamilton, London, and Windsor. While many municipalities in the province have no or relatively few dental offices, municipalities that are comparatively rich in both general and specialized dentists are rare and tend to be part of larger urban environments (typically census metropolitan areas), characterized by higher growth rates, higher median incomes, and lower median ages. Dentist office hot‐spots within metropolitan areas occur in or near the downtown and in more peripheral/suburban locales. “High sales” dentist offices in suburban hot‐spots appear to benefit from prosperous locations and supply deficits nearby, whereas inner‐city “dentist districts” may form in part because of localization economies. Understanding where relative dentist under‐supply occurs within a jurisdiction and why other locations are dentist‐rich is important from a policy perspective so that geographic inequities, and associated spatial accessibility issues, can be more comprehensively appraised.
Comparison of healthcare priorities in childhood and early/late adolescence: analysis of cross‐sectional data from eight countries in the Council of Europe Child‐friendly Healthcare Survey, 2011
Authors: Bensted R. , Hargreaves D. S. , Lombard J. , Kilkelly U. , Viner R. M.
Published: June 2014

Aims

To investigate healthcare priorities among children (≤12 years), early adolescents (13–15 years) and late adolescents (16–18 years).

Methods

A total of 2023 respondents from eight European countries rated the importance of nine healthcare factors. The relative importance of these factors was compared within and between age groups, using mean score differences and logistic regression.

Results

The most important item for all age groups was being listened to. Children rated pain control and the presence of parents more important than either understanding the doctor or being able to ask questions. Among adolescents, these differences disappeared for pain control and were reversed for parental presence. The changes in relative priorities between childhood and adolescence remained significant after adjusting for sex, long‐standing illness and nationality (all P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Healthcare priorities evolve significantly between childhood and early adolescence. However, being listened to is the most important priority at all ages.
Setipiprant, a selective CRTH2 antagonist, reduces allergen‐induced airway responses in allergic asthmatics
Authors: Diamant Z. , Sidharta P. N. , Singh D. , O'Connor B. J. , Zuiker R. , Leaker B. R. , Silkey M. , Dingemanse J.
Published: June 2014

Background

CRTH2 is a G‐protein‐coupled receptor on T helper2 cells that mediates pro‐inflammatory effects of prostaglandin D2 in allergic responses.

Objective

To investigate the tolerability and pharmacokinetics of setipiprant (ACT‐129968), a selective orally active CRTH2 antagonist, in allergic asthmatics and to assess the protective effects of multiple doses of this drug against allergen‐induced airway responses.

Methods

In this 3‐centre, double‐blinded, placebo‐controlled, cross‐over study, 18 allergic asthmatic males were randomized to setipiprant 1000 mg or matching placebo b.i.d. for 5 consecutive days. Study periods were separated by a washout of ≥ 3 weeks. On study day 4, subjects underwent a standardized allergen challenge and airway response was recorded by FEV1 until 10 h post‐allergen. Airway responsiveness to methacholine and exhaled nitric oxide (eNO) were measured pre‐ and post‐dosing. The effects of both treatments on the allergen‐induced airway responses were compared by a paired Student's t‐test.

Results

Fifteen subjects completed the study per‐protocol and were included in the analysis. Overall, setipiprant was well tolerated and no clinically relevant adverse events occurred. Trough plasma concentrations showed a high inter‐subject variability. Compared with placebo, setipiprant significantly reduced the allergen‐induced late asthmatic response (LAR), inhibiting the area under the response vs. time curve (AUC(3–10 h)) by on average 25.6% (P = 0.006) and significantly protected against the allergen‐induced airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR) to methacholine (P = 0.0029). There was no difference in the early asthmatic response (EAR) or in allergen‐induced changes in eNO between treatments.

Conclusion and Clinical Relevance

Setipiprant at multiple oral doses was well tolerated and reduced both the allergen‐induced LAR and the associated AHR in allergic asthmatics. Our findings confirm that CRTH2 may be a promising target for the treatment of allergic disorders.
Certification, Forest Conservation, and Cattle: Theories and Evidence of Change in Brazil
Authors: Newton Peter , Alves‐Pinto Helena Nery , Pinto Luís Fernando Guedes
Published: June 2014

Voluntary certification programs for agricultural and forest products have been developed to improve the environmental and social sustainability of production processes. The new Sustainable Agriculture Network (SAN) cattle certification program aims to reduce deforestation in the cattle supply chain, with a focus on Brazil. Drawing on information from interviews with key actors in Brazil, this article discusses the mechanisms that may enable the SAN cattle program to achieve these goals and to avoid critiques that have been leveled at other commodity certification programs. The program sets higher standards for sustainability than any existing policy or incentive mechanism. Participation in the program may generate significant indirect financial and non‐financial benefits. The program may also influence the supply chain more widely: by demonstrating that certifiable, traceable, sustainable cattle production is viable; by “raising the bar” of sustainability standards through rigorous criteria; and by creating new markets and incentives. While the scaling up and impact of the SAN cattle program will depend in part on how it is supported or constrained by other interventions in the same sector, the program appears to be characterized by a rigorous program design that is necessary, if not sufficient, to catalyze reduced rates of forest loss.
The Effect of Board of Directors’ IT Awareness on CIO Compensation and Firm Performance
Authors: Yayla Ali Alper , Hu Qing
Published: June 2014

Chief information officers (CIOs) play increasingly strategic roles in firms in this competitive global economy, which is now largely powered by information technology (IT). However, research has shown a lack of board of directors’ oversight on CIO‐ and IT‐related issues. Drawing on agency, resource dependence, and alignment theories, we investigate the effect of board of directors’ IT awareness on CIO compensation structure and firm performance. We conduct cross‐sectional time series analyses of data collected from various sources. Our study underlines three important findings. First, we show that some commonly known executive compensation determinants, such as individual characteristics and governance structure, do not have significant effects on CIO compensation structure. Second, with regard to CIO compensation structure, firms respond to increasing information asymmetry differently according to the level of IT awareness of their boards. Finally, firms perform better when their boards have higher levels of IT awareness, and this positive effect of IT awareness is considerably larger in IT intensive industries. Overall, our study provides empirical support for the important role of boards’ IT awareness in shaping CIO compensation and improving firm performance. Our results suggest that boards with functional area knowledge—or higher IT awareness in this case—can more effectively monitor and better incentivize executives, and consequently lead to better firm performance.
Optimal Temporal Customer Purchasing Decisions Under Trade‐In Programs with Up‐Front Fees
Authors: Yin Rui , Tang Christopher S.
Published: June 2014

To entice customers to purchase both current and new generation products over time, many firms offer different trade‐in programs including programs that require customers to pay an up‐front fee. To examine the effectiveness of the trade‐in programs, we develop a two‐period model in which a firm sells the first generation product in the first period and the second generation product in the second period; however, the firm offers a trade‐in program that customers can participate in when purchasing the first generation product in the first period. To participate, each customer has to pay a nonrefundable fee in the first period so that she has the option to trade‐in her first generation product and receive a prespecified trade‐in value to be used for the purchase of the second generation product in the second period. To capture market heterogeneity and market uncertainty, we examine the case when the valuation of the first generation product varies among customers and the valuation of the second generation product is uncertain a priori. By analyzing a two‐period game, we determine the optimal purchasing behavior of each rational customer, and we show that the firm is always better off by offering its own trade‐in programs. Also, our numerical analysis reveals that trade‐in programs can benefit the firm significantly especially when (i) the residual value of the first generation product is high; (ii) the expected incremental value of the second generation product is high; or (iii) the valuation of the second generation product is highly uncertain.
A COMPETITIVE MODEL OF WORKER REPLACEMENT AND WAGE RIGIDITY
Authors: Snell Andy , Thomas Jonathan P. , Wang Zhewei
Published: June 2014

We adapt the models of Menzio and Moen (2010) and Snell and Thomas (2010) to consider a labor market in which firms can commit to wage contracts but cannot commit not to replace incumbent workers. Workers are risk averse, so that there exists an incentive for firms to smooth wages. Real wages respond in a highly nonlinear manner to shocks, exhibiting downward rigidity, and magnifying the response of unemployment to negative shocks. We also consider layoffs and show that for a range of shocks labor hoarding occurs while wages are cut. We argue these features are consistent with recent evidence. (JEL E32, J41)
CAN THE PRESIDENT REALLY AFFECT ECONOMIC GROWTH? PRESIDENTIAL EFFORT AND THE POLITICAL BUSINESS CYCLE
Authors: Rohlfs Chris , Sullivan Ryan , McNab Robert
Published: June 2014

Presidential elections are often seen as referendums on the health of the economy; however, little evidence exists on the president's ability to influence gross domestic product (GDP). This study examines the effect of the incentive to be reelected and the resulting increase in presidential effort on GDP growth. Growth is found to rise in reelection years for first‐term presidents after 1932 and to fall in election years before 1932, when reelection was uncommon, and for second‐term presidents generally. This effect is largest for high‐quality presidents—who probably have the highest return to effort—and is spread across multiple sectors of the economy. (JEL D78, D72, E32, J24)
Taking advantage of neural development to treat glioblastoma
Authors: Zhang Zhiyuan , Lin Chia‐Ching John
Published: June 2014

Glioblastoma (GBM) is by far the most common and most malignant primary adult brain tumor (World Health Organization grade IV), containing a fraction of stem‐like cells that are highly tumorigenic and multipotent. Recent research has revealed that GBM stem‐like cells play important roles in GBM pathogenesis. GBM is thought to arise from genetic anomalies in glial development. Over the past decade, a wide range of studies have shown that several signaling pathways involved in neural development, including basic helix–loop–helix, Wnt–β‐catenin, bone morphogenetic proteins–Smads, epidermal growth factor–epidermal growth factor receptor, and Notch, play important roles in GBM pathogenesis. In this review, we highlight the significance of these pathways in the context of developing treatments for GBM. Extrapolating knowledge and concepts from neural development will have significant implications for designing better strategies with which to treat GBM.
Can high‐resolution peripheral quantitative computed tomography imaging of subchondral and cortical bone predict condylar fracture inThoroughbred racehorses?
Authors: Trope G. D. , Ghasem‐Zadeh A. , Anderson G. A. , Mackie E. J. , Whitton R. C.
Published: June 2014

Reasons for performing study

High‐resolution 3Dimaging may improve the prediction and/or early identification of condylar fractures of the distal metacarpus/tarsus and reduce the frequency of breakdown injury in racehorses.

Objectives

To test the hypotheses that horses suffering condylar fractures have higher bone volume fraction (BV/TV) of the distal metacarpal epiphysis, greater subchondral bone thickness at the fracture site and higher second moment of inertia in the metacarpal midshaft as identified with high‐resolution 3Dimaging.

Study design

Cross‐sectional study using cadaver material.

Methods

Thoroughbreds that died on racetracks were grouped as: 1) horses with third metacarpal (McIII) fractures with a condylar component (cases, n = 13); 2) horses with no limb fracture (controls, n = 8); 3) horses with fractures in other bones or suspensory apparatus disruption (other fatal injuries, n = 16). The palmar condyles ofMcIIIand the midshaft were examined with high resolution peripheral quantitative computed tomography (HR‐pQCT). Statistical analysis included logistic regression and Spearman's correlation.

Results

There were no significant differences inBV/TVof distalMcIIIand second moment of inertia of the midshaft between cases and controls. Epiphyseal boneBV/TVwas greater in injured limbs of horses with any fatal limb injury (Groups 1and3combined) compared with controls (odds ratio = 1.20, 95% confidence interval 1.01–1.42, P = 0.034). An epiphysealBV/TV>0.742 resulted in a sensitivity of 82.8% and specificity of 62.5% in identifying horses with fatal limb injury. In horses without condylar fracture, increased subchondral bone thickness was associated with palmar osteochondral disease lesions in the adjacent condyle (rs= 0.65, P<0.001).

Conclusions

IncreasedBV/TVof the distal metacarpus may have some value for identifying horses at risk of any fatal breakdown injury but not metacarpal condylar fractures. Measurement of parasagittal groove subchondral bone thickness is complicated by adjacent palmar osteochondral disease lesions. Thus, high‐resolution imaging of the distal metacarpus appears to have limited ability to identify horses at risk of condylar fractures.
Thinking and Working Relationally: Interviewing and Constructing Hypotheses to Create Compassionate Understanding
Authors: Sheinberg Marcia , Brewster Mary Kim
Published: June 2014

In the initial interviews of family therapy sessions, the therapist faces the challenge of obtaining and organizing the information that is most relevant toward understanding the essential concerns that families and couples bring to therapy. This article describes the process of clinical interviewing and case conceptualization used in training family therapists at the Ackerman Institute for the Family. This approach helps the therapist bring forward, and organize, specific information into relational hypotheses, or systemic‐relational conceptualizations, that allow both family members and the therapist to understand presenting problems within their relational contexts. While always provisional, relational hypotheses help anchor the therapist in a systemic‐relational frame and provide a conceptual through‐line to guide the ongoing work of the therapy. The process of interviewing and the construction of clear and complex conceptualizations of presenting problems are illustrated through case examples.
Symbolism in Weakness: Jesus Christ for the Postmodern Age
Authors: Fortin Jean‐Pierre
Published: June 2014

The postmodern emphasis on human finitude encourages the reconsideration of religious traditions, and more particularly of Christianity. The doctrine of a vulnerable God dying on a cross speaks to postmodern civilization. Jesus Christ infuses transcendence into the realm of immanence by assuming the human predicament to its bitter end. The present essay critiques the recent attempts of deconstructionist philosopher John D. Caputo and systematic theologian Roger Haight to provide postmodern expositions for the Christian doctrine on the person of Jesus Christ. With the help of the fundamental notion of agapeic love, we demonstrate that in Jesus Christ, Caputo's philosophy of the event and Haight's theology of the symbol can be meaningfully integrated and human finitude responsibly overcome.
The academic librarian as co‐investigator on an interprofessional primary research team: a case study
Authors: Janke Robert , Rush Kathy L
Published: June 2014

Objective

The objective of this study was to explore the role librarians play on research teams. The experiences of a librarian and a faculty member are situated within the wider literature addressing collaborations between health science librarians and research faculty.

Methods

A case study approach is used to outline the involvement of a librarian on a team created to investigate the best practices for integrating nurses into the workplace during their first year of practice.

Results

Librarians contribute to research teams including expertise in the entire process of knowledge development and dissemination including the ability to navigate issues related to copyright and open access policies of funding agencies.

Discussion

The librarian reviews the various tasks performed as part of the research team ranging from the grant application, to working on the initial literature review as well as the subsequent manuscripts that emerged from the primary research. The motivations for joining the research team, including authorship and relationship building, are also discussed. Recommendations are also made in terms of how librarians could increase their participation on research teams.

Conclusion

The study shows that librarians can play a key role on interprofessional primary research teams.
Formaldehyde replacement with glyoxylic acid in semipermanent hair straightening: a new and multidisciplinary investigation
Authors: Boga C. , Taddei P. , Micheletti G. , Ascari F. , Ballarin B. , Morigi M. , Galli S.
Published: June 2014

Synopsis

Objective

Formaldehyde is an effective and popular semipermanent hair straightener, but the severe consequences for human health due to its toxicity have prompted the search for safer alternatives. Different carbonyl compounds, including glyoxylic acid, have recently been proposed as promising candidates. Despite the interest in this topic, there is a lack of information about the interactions between hair keratin and straightener agents. This study addresses this issue to gain new insights useful in the development of new products for safe, semipermanent hair deformation.

Methods

The possible reactions occurring between carbonyl groups and nucleophilic sites on amino acid residues belonging to the keratin were investigated using as model compounds some aldehydes and amino acid derivatives. Raman and IR analyses on yak hair subjected to the straightening treatment with glyoxylic acid in different conditions were carried out. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) analyses were carried out on yak and curly human hair after each step of the straightening procedure.

Results

The reactions between aldehydes and N‐α‐acetyl‐L‐lysine revealed the importance of the carbonyl electrophilicity and temperature to form imines. Raman and IR analyses on yak hair subjected to the straightening treatment evidenced rearrangements in the secondary structure distribution, conformational changes to the disulphide bridges, a decrease of the serine residues and formation of imines. It was also indicated that straightening produced major conformational rearrangements within the hair fibre rather than on the cuticle.

Conclusion

This investigation revealed the role played by the electrophilicity of the carbonyl on the straightener agent and of the temperature, closely related to the dehydration process. Raman and IR studies indicated the involvement of imine bonds and the occurrence of a sequence of conformational modifications during the straightening procedure. SEM analyses showed the effectiveness of the treatment at the cuticular level.
Topical epidermal growth factor for the improvement of acne lesions: a randomized, double‐blinded, placebo‐controlled, split‐face trial
Authors: Kim Hyun Kyu , Yeo In Kwon , Li Kapsok , Kim Beom Joon , Kim Myeung Nam , Hong Chang Kwun
Published: June 2014

Acne is one of the most common adverse events associated with the use of anticancer agents, such as epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibitors. Based on data from several previous reports, we predicted that topical application of EGF could improve acne vulgaris. To evaluate the clinical efficacy and safety of topical recombinant human EGF (rhEGF) cream for the treatment of facial acne vulgaris. Twenty Korean adults with mild to moderate acne vulgaris applied topical rhEGF cream on one half of the face and a vehicle cream on the other half twice daily for six weeks. Clinical assessments were conducted at baseline, two, four, and six weeks. Two assessment methods were applied: inflammatory and non‐inflammatory acne lesion counts and acne severity score by investigator's global assessment. Skin sebum output level and hydration level were also measured at each visit. All volunteers completed the study. At the final visit, inflammatory acne lesions were reduced by 33.5% on the rhEGF‐applied side. Non‐inflammatory acne lesions also decreased by 25.4%, whereas the lesions on the control side increased. The majority of patients demonstrated improvement on the side of the face where rhEGF cream was applied. Sebum output decreased on the rhEGF side, and skin hydration level increased on both sides. No severe side effects were observed during the study. Topical rhEGF seems to be an effective and safe adjuvant treatment option for mild to moderate acne vulgaris.
No exonic mutations at GJB2, GJB3, GJB4, GJB6, ARS (Component B), and LOR genes responsible for a Chinese patient affected by progressive symmetric erythrokeratodermia with pseudoainhum
Authors: Zhou Fusheng , Fu Hongyang , Liu Linghua , Cui Yong , Zhang Zhengzhong , Chang Ruixue , Yue Zhen , Yang Sen , Zhang Xuejun
Published: June 2014

Objective

Progressive symmetric erythrokeratodermia (PSEK) is characterized by symmetric and growing erythematous hyperkeratotic patches over the body shortly after birth, particularly trunk and limbs, the buttocks, and the face, sometimes together with palmoplantar keratoderma (PPK). The GJB2, GJB3, GJB4, GJB6, ARS (Component B), and LOR gene mutation might contribute to PSEK manifestation. This study aimed to identify sequence alteration of these genes in a Chinese PSEK patient with pseudoainhum.

Methods

Genomic DNA was purified from the patient's peripheral blood. Mutation analysis of target genes was performed by direct sequencing using ABI 3730 sequencer

Results

No exonic mutations was identified in the aforementioned genes.

Conclusions

The result underlines the genetic heterogeneity of PSEK and other related erythrokeratodermas.
Accurate quantitation of JAK2 V617F allele burden by array‐based digital PCR
Authors: Kinz E. , Leiherer A. , Lang A. H. , Drexel H. , Muendlein A.
Published: June 2014

Introduction

The JAK2 V617F mutation is highly prevalent in patients with myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPN). Several studies have shown that allele burden correlates with hematologic characteristics and clinical end‐points in patients with MPN. Allele‐specific real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RQ‐PCR) is probably the most commonly used technique for detection and quantitation of the JAK2 V617F mutation. Alternatively, digital PCR is an emerging technology for absolute DNA quantitation, which is based on dilution and high‐grade partitioning of a sample.

Methods

We compared array‐based digital PCR using the QuantStudio™ 3D Digital PCR System platform with a RQ‐PCR assay, CE‐registered for in vitro diagnostic use, regarding JAK2 V617F allele quantitation. This study included 30 samples positive for the JAK2 V617F mutation and additionally 13 samples without the mutation.

Results

JAK2 V617F allele burden of samples ranged between well below 1% and more than 90%. Linear regression analysis showed a high correlation between the results obtained from the two techniques (r2 = 0.9983). Thirteen samples tested negatively for the JAK2 V617F mutation with RQ‐PCR were also found negative with digital PCR.

Conclusion

We conclude that array‐based digital PCR is an appropriate method for the quantitation of JAK2 V617F allele burden demonstrating highest correlation with allele‐specific RQ‐PCR.
Effect of carbazochrome sodium sulfonate on refractory chronic prostatitis
Authors: Oh‐oka Hitoshi , Yamada Tetsuo , Noto Hiromitsu , Umeyama Tomokazu , Kadekawa Katsumi , Ashitomi Katsuhiro , Nishijima Saori , Sugaya Kimio
Published: June 2014

Objectives

To study the effect of carbazochrome sodium sulfonate, an agent that reduces capillary permeability, on refractory chronic prostatitis.

Methods

Patients with prostatitis refractory to at least 8 weeks of routine therapy and with urinalysis positive for microhematuria were considered for the present study. In addition to their prior therapy, the patients received carbazochrome at a dose of 30 mg three times a day. The severity of pain (score 0–10), daytime and night‐time frequency, international prostate symptom score, global self‐assessment, urine occult blood positivity, and adverse events were assessed after 4 and 8 weeks of treatment, and compared with baseline findings.

Results

A total of 50 patients (mean age 68.6 ± 8.5 years) were evaluable. The pain score decreased significantly from 3.2 ± 2.1 at baseline to 1.7 ± 1.4 after 4 weeks of treatment and to 1.1 ± 1.8 after 8 weeks. Daytime and night‐time frequency, storage symptoms, post‐micturition symptoms, and urine occult blood positivity also significantly improved. More than 36% of the patients gave a global self‐assessment rating of “improved” or “better” after both 4 and 8 weeks of treatment. Mild adverse events occurred in three patients; one had nausea and two developed drug rash.

Conclusions

Carbazochrome seems to effectively improve pain as well as storage and post‐micturition symptoms in patients with refractory chronic prostatitis.
Introduction of an interdisciplinary heart team‐based transcatheter aortic valve implantation programme: short and mid‐term outcomes
Authors: Martínez G. J. , Seco M. , Jaijee S. K. , Adams M. R. , Cartwright B. L. , Forrest P. , Celermajer D. S. , Vallely M. P. , Wilson M. K. , Ng M. K. C.
Published: June 2014

Background

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) has been developed to treat symptomatic aortic stenosis in patients deemed too high risk for open‐heart surgery. To address this complex population, an interdisciplinary heart team approach was proposed.

Aim

Present the short‐ and mid‐term outcomes of the first 100 patients in the Royal Prince Alfred Hospital multidisciplinary TAVI programme.

Methods

Single‐centre registry. Baseline and procedural data were prospectively recorded. Outcomes were recorded according to Valve Academic Research Consortium – version 2 guidelines.

Results

All patients underwent a comprehensive interdisciplinary pre‐procedural evaluation. Sixty‐eight transfemoral and 32 transapical implantations were performed. Mean age was 82 (±8.9) years old with an average logistic EuroSCORE of 33. Although 13 procedures had major complications, there was no intraprocedural mortality. During the first month, 9% of patients were re‐admitted due to heart failure and 13% had a permanent pacemaker implanted. A 3% 30‐day and 8% follow‐up (mean 17 months) mortalities were recorded. While no significant differences in the rate of complications were found between the first and second half of the experience, all cases of mortality within 30 days (n = 3) occurred in the initial half. Sustained haemodynamic results were obtained with TAVI (immediate mean aortic valve gradient reduction from 47 to 9 mmHg; 1‐year echocardiographic gradient 9.9 mmHg, with no moderate or severe aortic regurgitation).

Conclusion

Excellent results can be achieved with TAVI in very high‐risk patients at an Australian institution. A comprehensive evaluation based on a heart team can overcome most of the difficulties imposed by this challenging population.
Adherence to guideline‐based antibiotic treatment for acute exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in an Australian tertiary hospital
Authors: Fanning M. , McKean M. , Seymour K. , Pillans P. , Scott I.
Published: June 2014

Background

Acute exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD) are an important cause of acute hospital admissions and incur significant costs, which include antibiotic costs.

Aims

This study aimed to (i) define antibiotic prescribing practice in patients admitted to a tertiary hospital with AECOPD and compare this with current locally and nationally recognised antibiotic prescribing guidelines and (ii) correlate variations in guideline‐concordant antibiotic prescribing with mean length of stay (LOS) and rates of unplanned readmission to hospital.

Methods

Retrospective case series of 84 consecutive patients with uncomplicated AECOPD who met pre‐specified selection criteria.

Results

Seventy‐two of 84 participants (85.7%) received guideline‐discordant antibiotics, of whom the majority (76%) received intravenous antibiotics. Mean LOS was significantly lower among patients receiving guideline‐concordant therapy compared with those receiving guideline‐discordant therapy (mean 1.6 days vs 3.7 days; P = 0.002). There was no significant difference between groups in rates of readmission. Estimated excess costs per patient associated with guideline‐discordant therapy equalled $2642 which, if eliminated, would save approximately $300 000 per annum.

Conclusion

In a tertiary hospital, Australian guidelines for treating patients with an AECOPD were rarely followed. The use of guideline‐discordant therapy resulted in longer hospital stays and incurred greater costs. Studies are required to determine the reasons behind such discordant practice and to develop initiatives to improve antibiotic prescribing.
Exploring selection and recruitment processes for newly qualified nurses: a sequential‐explanatory mixed‐method study
Authors: Newton Paul , Chandler Val , Morris‐Thomson Trish , Sayer Jane , Burke Linda
Published: June 2014

Aim

To map current selection and recruitment processes for newly qualified nurses and to explore the advantages and limitations of current selection and recruitment processes.

Background

The need to improve current selection and recruitment practices for newly qualified nurses is highlighted in health policy internationally.

Design

A cross‐sectional, sequential‐explanatory mixed‐method design with 4 components: (1) Literature review of selection and recruitment of newly qualified nurses; and (2) Literature review of a public sector professions’ selection and recruitment processes; (3) Survey mapping existing selection and recruitment processes for newly qualified nurses; and (4) Qualitative study about recruiters’ selection and recruitment processes.

Methods

Literature searches on the selection and recruitment of newly qualified candidates in teaching and nursing (2005–2013) were conducted. Cross‐sectional, mixed‐method data were collected from thirty‐one (n = 31) individuals in health providers in London who had responsibility for the selection and recruitment of newly qualified nurses using a survey instrument. Of these providers who took part, six (n = 6) purposively selected to be interviewed qualitatively.

Results

Issues of supply and demand in the workforce, rather than selection and recruitment tools, predominated in the literature reviews. Examples of tools to measure values, attitudes and skills were found in the nursing literature. The mapping exercise found that providers used many selection and recruitment tools, some providers combined tools to streamline process and assure quality of candidates.

Conclusions

Most providers had processes which addressed the issue of quality in the selection and recruitment of newly qualified nurses. The ‘assessment centre model’, which providers were adopting, allowed for multiple levels of assessment and streamlined recruitment. There is a need to validate the efficacy of the selection tools.
An Alternative Transseptal Intracardiac Echocardiography Strategy to Guide Left Atrial Appendage Closure: The First Described Case
Authors: FASSINI GAETANO , RUSSO ANTONIO DELLO , CONTI SERGIO , TONDO CLAUDIO
Published: June 2014

Transseptal Intracardiac Echocardiography Strategy

Transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) is the standard imaging technique to guide device implantation for left atrial appendage (LAA) closure. Unfortunately, TEE was contraindicated in this patient due to the high risk of variceal hemorrhage. Critical information about the exact anatomic characteristics of the LAA can be obtained using intracardiac echocardiography (ICE). However, standard right‐side views do not allow a complete visualization of the LAA: in particular, a reliable left circumflex coronary artery short axis view, relevant for device positioning, is not always achievable. Transseptal views of the LAA with ICE might be used in planning an appropriate intervention strategy for patients who are not suitable for TEE imaging.
Manpower and Outpatient Clinic Workload for Remote Monitoring of Patients with Cardiac Implantable Electronic Devices: Data from the HomeGuide Registry
Authors: RICCI RENATO PIETRO , MORICHELLI LOREDANA , D'ONOFRIO ANTONIO , CALÒ LEONARDO , VACCARI DIEGO , ZANOTTO GABRIELE , CURNIS ANTONIO , BUJA GIANFRANCO , ROVAI NICOLA , GARGARO ALESSIO
Published: June 2014

Manpower of Cardiac Device Home Monitoring

Background

This study aimed to assess manpower and resource consumption of the HomeGuide workflow model for remote monitoring (Biotronik Home Monitoring [HM], Biotronik SE & Co. KG, Berlin, Germany) of cardiac implantable electronic devices in daily clinical practice.

Methods

The model established a cooperative interaction between a reference nurse (RN) for ordinary management, and a responsible physician (RP) for medical decisions in each outpatient clinic. RN reviewed remote transmissions and alerts, addressing critical cases to the RP.

Results

A total of 1,650 patients were enrolled in 75 sites: 25% pacemakers (PM), 22% dual‐, 27% single‐chamber implantable defibrillators (ICD), 2% PM with cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT), and 24% ICD‐CRT. During a median follow‐up of 18 (10–31) months, 3,364 HM sessions were performed (74% by the RN, 26% by the RP) to complete 18,478 remote follow‐ups. Median duration of remote follow‐ups was 1.2 (0.6–2.0) minutes, corresponding to a manpower of 43.3 (4.2–94.8) minutes/month every 100 patients for nurses and 10.2 (0.1–31.1) for physicians (P < 0.0001). RN submitted 15% of remote transmissions to RP, who decided unscheduled follow‐ups in 12% of the cases. The median manpower for phone calls was 1.9 (0.8–16.5) minutes/month every 100 contacted patients. There were 2.84 in‐hospital visits/patient, 0.46 of which triggered by HM findings. A cumulative per‐patient HM follow‐up time of 15.4 minutes (20% of total follow‐up time) allowed remote detection of 73% of actionable events.

Conclusions

HM implemented in the HomeGuide workflow model required <1 hour/month every 100 patients to detect the majority of actionable events with limited administrative workload.