bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Revisiting Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) at the Individual Internet Banking Adoption Level
Authors: Bashir Irfan , Madhavaiah C.
Published: June 2016

The purpose of this article is to examine convergence or divergence of Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) based studies in Internet Banking (IB) services on adoption patterns. Literature survey was conducted using convenience sampling in order to cover wide range of journals. A keyword search was conducted and 24 closely related studies were selected for the systematic review in order to provide a comprehensive picture of the existing studies. The review concluded that culture which plays significant role in technology adoption has been ignored in context of IB adoption. This findings show that models with attitude as mediating variable are better predictors of individual IB adoption. Further, it is observed that technological factors such as technological complexity, experience and trust in technology have received very less attention which studying adoption patterns of technology such as IB. This article contributes to existing body of IB adoption literature by incorporating culture as moderating variable into the framework of TAM. In addition, study advances IB literature on attitude and adoption patterns. This article is novel in terms of incorporating cultural dimensions (i.e., uncertainty avoidance, and individualism/ collectivism) as moderators into the frame of extended TAM in context of IB.
Factors Predicting Co‐creation of Value: A Study of Boutiques
Authors: Kaur Gurjeet , Devi Rita , Sehgal Sanjeewani
Published: June 2016

Central to Service-Dominant Logic is the proposition that the customer has become a co-creator of the value. This emphasises the development of customer‐supplier relationships through interaction and dialogue. However, research to date suggests that relatively little is known about how consumers engage in co-creation of value with the service provider. Thus, the present study develops a framework of the facilitators or antecedents of the co-creation of value for understanding and managing creation of value. The study examines the co-creation efforts ofthe customers of fashionable boutiques of a city and statistical techniques like CFA and SEM were used to analyse the data. Further, reliability and validity tests were also performed. Based upon a sample of 196 female customers, the study found that resource integration and composite expertise of customers and suppliers significantly influence customer participation, which in turn significantly predicts CCV. The study also discusses the managerial implications, limitations and future research agenda at the end.
Application of Markowitz Model for Analyzing the Performance of Cricket Teams in Indian Premier League
Authors: Singh Ranjit , Saikia Hemanta , Bhattacharjee Dibyojyoti
Published: June 2016

This study tries to identify the dominant teams of the first five seasons of IPL using Markowitz model of portfolio management. An average composite performance score (ACPS) is developed based on two prime skills of the game (i.e. batting and bowling) that can be used to quantify the performance of a cricket team. The value of ACPS is considered as the return of a team and the standard deviation of the composite performance score of the team across different matches as the risk associated with team performance. The study also tries to explore if it is the dominating team that tops the list in the tournament. As an outcome of the study, it is found that Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Delhi Daredevils (DD) had dominated the first three seasons of IPL. The next two seasons were dominated by Deccan Chargers (DC). A dominating team is expected to be the favorite team of the tournament. Such a team is expected to get more support from the audience.
Student Engagement as the Predictor of Direct and Indirect Learning Outcomes in the Management Education Context
Authors: Singh Anup K. , Srivastava Shalini , Singh Deepak
Published: June 2016

Student engagement is considered as a strong predictor of learning. It is a multi-dimensional concept, comprising sense of belonging, individual engagement and collaborative engagement. Only a few studies have examined the relationship between student engagement and learning outcomes. Measures of learning can be both direct and indirect. One prevalent direct measure of learning is management competency, assessed through a computer-based business simulation game. Likewise, a popular indirect measure of learning is the perception of acquisition of management skill. The study did not find any relationship between direct and indirect measures of learning. The study also tests the relationship of student engagement variables with both direct and indirect learning outcomes. Collaborative engagement emerged as the most significant predictor of management competency, whereas both individual and collaborative engagements were found to be the significant predictors of indirect learning outcome. The implications of the findings are discussed in terms of involving students in different learning activities both individually and collaboratively to enhance their learning experience. Limitations of the study are pointed out and the directions for future research are highlighted.
Communication of Corporate Social Responsibility Activities by Private Sector Companies in India: Research Findings and Insights
Authors: Ghosh Sumona
Published: June 2016

This paper aims to explore in to the aspect of establishment of a pattern of participation of CSR activities amongst the private sector companies as reflected in the respective company documents in the public domain, taking rate of growth of profit as the parameter.An empirical and analytical study was undertaken whereby the corporate official websites of the companies were analyzed .Data was then generated from such an analysis using Qualitative Document Analysis. For this study we used “number of sentences” as the unit for measurement of CSR participation. Descriptive statistics, Pearson's Correlation, multiple regression analysis and conjoint analysis were the tools used for the study. It was noticeable that with respect to private sector companies in India attitude towards CSR communication is in a confused state where, the business community has shown its responsiveness towards communication of various CSR activities but the level of importance that was attached to such activities was not uniform across deciles, deciles being characterized by growth rate of profit. Responsiveness and inspirations to involve in CSR activities and its communication do not seem to show any particular association with growth rate of profit. The association seems to be haphazard, so nothing concrete could be concluded at this stage.
Modelling and simulation of surface-bonded piezoelectric actuators with bending effects
Authors: Yu Huangchao , Wang Xiaodong
Published: June 2016

In the modelling of thin-sheet piezoelectric actuators the effect of bending of the actuator itself is usually ignored. The current paper presents a model of a surface bonded piezoelectric actuator subjected to electric loading, which contains both the axial and bending deformations. The static electromechanical response of the actuator is studied under different mechanical and geometrical conditions to evaluate the effect of bending. An imperfectly bonded interface is proposed to simulate debonding and to study its effect on the actuation process. The problem is formulated as integral equations in terms of the interfacial shear and normal stresses, which are solved by using Chebyshev polynomials. Based on the solution, the effect of bending of the actuator upon load transfer is analysed. Illustrative examples are presented to show the effect of the material property, the geometry and the interfacial debonding on the response of the integrated structure.
Hypothesis
Authors: Wang Wenguang , Liu Chao , Cong Hongliang
Published: June 2016

Calcific aortic valve disease (CAVD) is a common cardiovascular disease in the elderly individuals associated with major morbidity and mortality. The process is characterized by multiple steps: lipid infiltration, inflammation, fibrosis, and calcification. Inhibitors of proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) represent a new therapeutic category of drugs for the treatment of dyslipidemia and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Monoclonal antibodies of PCSK9 can result in substantial reductions in atherogenic lipoprotein cholesterol-carrying particles, especially lipoprotein(a), and thereby hold the potential for further reducing events associated with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. In this article, we reviewed the clinical and experimental studies in order to find the evidence of the involvement of PCSK9 in CAVD and the potential benefits of PCSK9 monoclonal antibodies in clinical therapeutics.
Optimization of the dynamic behavior of vehicle structures by means of passive interface controls
Authors: Huang Xingrong , Jézéquel Louis , Besset Sébastien , Li Lin
Published: June 2016

As a form of passive control, padding rubber layers onto the most heavily deformed zones of a system can improve the dynamic behavior and the acoustic comfort of a vehicle system. This paper proposes an extensive hybrid modal synthesis method in order to study coupled fluid-structure systems, in retaining a few degrees of freedom. Modal criteria, corresponding to noise transmission paths between substructures in the system, have been derived to characterize the dynamic phenomenon from a modal view. These criteria were then substituted by Kriging interpolation models to avoid prohibitive simulation steps during optimization of the complex system. Once the mathematical models of the investigated modal criteria were established and the multi-objective functions for rubber characteristics defined, an approximate optimal solution leading to superior dynamic performance could be obtained based on a genetic algorithm. The analytical results and numerical experiments conducted have also justified the efficiency of our proposed strategy.
Sexual Coercion Practices Among Undergraduate Male Recreational Athletes, Intercollegiate Athletes, and Non-Athletes
Authors: Young Belinda-Rose , Desmarais Sarah L. , Baldwin Julie A. , Chandler Rasheeta
Published: June 2016

Prior research shows that male intercollegiate athletes are at risk for perpetrating sexual violence. Whether this risk extends to male recreational athletes has not been explored. This study assessed associations between attitudes toward women, rape myth acceptance, and prevalence of sexual coercion among 379 male, undergraduate recreational and intercollegiate athletes and non-athletes. Our analyses showed significant differences between the responses of athletes and non-athletes for all dependent variables, and intercollegiate and recreational athletes on attitudes toward women and the prevalence of sexual coercion. Controlling for rape myth acceptance and traditional gender role attitudes eliminated differences between athletes and non-athletes in prevalence of sexual coercion.
Endovascular therapy for advanced post-thrombotic syndrome: Proceedings from a multidisciplinary consensus panel
Authors: Vedantham Suresh , Kahn Susan R , Goldhaber Samuel Z , Comerota Anthony J , Parpia Sameer , Meleth Sreelatha , Earp Diane , Williams Rick , Sista Akhilesh K , Marston William , Rathbun Suman , Magnuson Elizabeth A , Razavi Mahmood K , Jaff Michael R , Kearon Clive
Published: June 2016

Patients with advanced post-thrombotic syndrome (PTS) and chronic iliac vein obstruction suffer major physical limitations and impairment of health-related quality of life. Currently there is a lack of evidence-based treatment options for these patients. Early studies suggest that imaging-guided, catheter-based endovascular therapy can eliminate iliac vein obstruction and saphenous venous valvular reflux, resulting in reduced PTS severity; however, these observations have not been rigorously validated. A multidisciplinary expert panel meeting was convened to plan a multicenter randomized controlled clinical trial to evaluate endovascular therapy for the treatment of advanced PTS. This article summarizes the findings of the panel, and is expected to assist in developing a National Institutes of Health-sponsored clinical trial and other studies to improve the care of patients with advanced PTS.
Not knowing what I feel: Emotional empathy in autism spectrum disorders
Authors: Trimmer Emily , McDonald Skye , Rushby Jacqueline Ann
Published: June 2016

While there is a general consensus in the literature that individuals with autism spectrum disorder have difficulty with cognitive empathy, much less is known about emotional empathy processing in these individuals. Most research has employed subjective self-report measures, which can often be misinterpreted or under-reported/over-reported. More objective measures such as psychophysiological recordings of arousal offer a more objective response. Furthermore, combining physiological responses with self-report ratings allows us to explore the relationship between these two responses to emotionally charged stimuli. A total of 25 individuals with autism spectrum disorder were compared with 25 matched controls on their physiological (arousal) and psychological (self-report) responses to emotionally distressing video scenes. These responses were also then compared with self-report cognitive and emotional trait empathy. Results indicate that while individuals with autism spectrum disorder appear to respond similarly to controls physiologically, their interpretation of this response is dampened emotionally. Furthermore, this dampening of self-report emotional response is associated with a general reduction in trait empathy.
Learning to be literate: Insights from research for policy and practice
Authors: Clark Margaret M
Published: June 2016

This article presents an overview of literacy teaching and learning, based on the author’s extensive research and, in particular, the recently revised and extended Learning to be Literate: Insights from Research for Policy and Practice (Routledge, 2016). It is set against a background in England in which government policy dictates synthetic phonics as the method of teaching reading, supported by a high-stakes phonics test including nonsense words. The article points to the lack of evidence for such an approach, the complex nature of English orthography and the problems for the increasing number of children not learning to read in their first language.
Loris Malaguzzi and the schools of Reggio Emilia: Provocation and hope for a renewed public education
Authors: Moss Peter
Published: June 2016

Loris Malaguzzi (1920–1994) was one of the great educationalists of the last century, helping to create a system of public (or municipal) schools in his home city of Reggio Emilia in Northern Italy that is, arguably, the most successful example of radical or progressive education that has ever been. The article gives an introduction to Malaguzzi and his work, starting with a short overview of his career, then outlining some of the most important understandings, values and practices that came to define his pedagogical thinking and work, and counterpointing this with the attention he paid to organisation, which he believed was vital but always subservient to values and practice. Finally, the article considers his significance to education today, expanding on how Malaguzzi and the schools of Reggio Emilia provide both provocation and hope for a renewed public education. The author draws on a recently published translation and collection of Malaguzzi’s writings and speeches, on which he worked as co-editor, ‘Loris Malaguzzi and the schools of Reggio Emilia’.
Persuasive technology for health and wellness: State-of-the-art and emerging trends
Authors: Orji Rita , Moffatt Karyn
Published: June 2016

The evolving field of persuasive and behavior change technology is increasingly targeted at influencing behavior in the area of health and wellness. This paper provides an empirical review of 16 years (85 papers) of literature on persuasive technology for health and wellness to: (1.) answer important questions regarding the effectiveness of persuasive technology for health and wellness, (2.) summarize and highlight trends in the technology design, research methods, motivational strategies, theories, and health behaviors targeted by research to date, (3.) uncover pitfalls of existing persuasive technological interventions for health and wellness, and (4.) suggest directions for future research.
Beyond punitiveness? Governance of crime and authoritarian heritage in Serbia
Authors: Tripkovic Milena
Published: June 2016

This article sets out to examine the degree to which democratic transition in Serbia after 2000 has brought about a democratic mode of crime governance in the country. It is shown that while penal norms and policies have undergone a significant degree of democratization in that their outlook has tended not to be punitive, the judiciary (and, to some degree, other actors in the penal field) has been increasingly inclined towards punitive practices. Taking an institutional approach to explain this discrepancy, the article argues that pockets of authoritarianism in the executive have survived the transition to democracy and have continued to exert pressure on the judiciary in ways that have influenced judicial decision-making towards greater punitiveness.
Punishment, violence, and grassroots democracy in South Africa—The politics of populist punitiveness
Authors: Super Gail Jennifer
Published: June 2016

This article discusses the apparent contradictions, and consequences, of the state’s embracing of democratic ‘community’ based criminal justice initiatives, in tandem with long-term imprisonment, in the context of vigilantism in Khayelitsha, a black township on the outskirts of Cape Town. I argue that vigilante practices are part of a continuum of community-based crime prevention and punishment practices, where the legal and illegal are blurred, and with which the state is complicit. Looking back, from the vantage point of 2014 to the time when South Africa emerged from apartheid rule and held its first democratic elections, in April 1994, it is clear that mass democracy has had an uneasy relationship with the liberal values enshrined in the Constitution. I argue that punitive punishment is one of the consequences of the state’s turn toward democratic localism and its embracing of a discourse that encourages communities to take responsibility for crime prevention. The danger of rallying ‘communities’ around combating crime is that it has the potential to unleash violent technologies in the quest for ‘ethics’ and ‘morality.’ As George Herbert Mead pointed out many years ago, when community members unite against an outsider, they are bonded for an intense moment in a way that masks the very real problems that tear the community apart. The ironic twist is that ‘mob justice’ in Khayelitsha is also a mass technology to protect private property in the context of the endemic inequality that characterizes South Africa
Sums of smooth exponentials to decompose complex series of counts
Authors: Camarda Carlo G , Eilers Paul HC , Gampe Jutta
Published: June 2016

Representing the conditional mean in Poisson regression directly as a sum of smooth components can provide a realistic model of the data generating process. Here, we present an approach that allows such an additive decomposition of the expected values of counts. The model can be formulated as a penalized composite link model and can, therefore, be estimated by a modified iteratively weighted least-squares algorithm. Further shape constraints on the smooth additive components can be enforced by additional penalties, and the model is extended to two dimensions. We present two applications that motivate the model and demonstrate the versatility of the approach.
Influence of the fabric construction parameters and roving type on the tensile property retention of high-performance rovings in warp-knitted reinforced fabrics and cement-based composites
Authors: Quadflieg Till , Stolyarov Oleg , Gries Thomas
Published: June 2016

In this work, the tensile property retention characteristics of high-performance glass and carbon rovings in warp-knitted reinforced fabrics and cement-based composites used in structural applications were investigated. Three types of warp-knitted fabrics, with differing stitch patterns, and cement-based composites were produced. The tensile strength retention and Young’s modulus retention of the roving in these fabrics and their influence on the properties of cement-based composites were compared on the basis of the stitch type. Samples of warp-knitted fabrics composed of glass fibres and carbon fibres exhibit retention of 76–87% and 65–87.6%, respectively, of the initial strength of the rovings. The highest Young’s modulus retention (∼80%) occurs in the case of the fabric sample composed of glass rovings. The retention of the Young’s modulus in the fabric samples composed of carbon rovings was 37–60%. In addition, the translation of strength from the roving to the fabric and retention of the Young’s modulus in the carbon rovings decreased with increasing strength and modulus, respectively, of the original roving. On the basis of the data presented, we provided guidelines for the possible application of the developed fabrics. As conclusion, it is possible to reduce the cost of the raw materials by using fabrics whose original rovings have low tensile strength and Young’s modulus, but high retention properties.
Erosion wear behavior of coir fiber-reinforced epoxy composites filled with Al2O3 filler
Authors: Das Geetanjali , Biswas Sandhyarani
Published: June 2016

Now-a-days, natural fibers have been receiving considerable attention as the substitute for synthetic fiber reinforcement in plastics. Among various fibers, coir is the most widely used natural fiber due to its advantages like easy availability, low cost, low density, low production cost and satisfactory mechanical properties. Fiber-reinforced polymer composites often have to function in severe erosive environment in which they encounter solid particle erosion. To this end, an attempt has been made in this paper not only to study the utilization potential of coir fiber in polymer composites, but also to study the effect of various parameters on erosion wear performance of coir fiber-reinforced epoxy composites filled with Al2O3 filler. Twenty different composite samples were prepared with different length (3 mm, 6 mm, 9 mm, 12 mm, and 15 mm) and content (5 wt%, 10 wt%, 15 wt% and 20 wt%) of fiber using hand lay-up technique. The erosion wear of these composites has been evaluated at different impingement angles (30°, 45°, 60°, 75°, and 90°) and at different impact velocities (48 m/s, 70 m/s, 82 m/s, and 109 m/s). The effect of fiber length and content on the erosion wear behavior of composites is also analyzed. A comparison has been made between composites with and without Al2O3 filler. It has been observed that composites filled with Al2O3 filler show better wear resistance properties as compared to composites without filler. To characterize the morphology of eroded surfaces and the mode of material removal, the eroded specimens are observed under scanning electron microscope.
The “Good War”: Preparations for a War against Civilians
Authors: Alexander Amanda
Published: June 2016

This article argues that the narratives told about the Great War helped to establish the bombardment of civilians during World War II as an ethical, military and legal possibility. It shows that the literary representation of the Great War was antagonistic towards civilians, suggesting that a fairer war would affect the entire nation. Military strategists accepted this premise and planned for a future war that would be directed against civilian populations. International lawyers also adopted this narrative and, constrained by it and their disciplinary conventions, found it hard to posit any strong legal or ethical objections to aerial bombardment.
Premixed methane/air gas deflagration simulations in closed-end and open-end tubes
Authors: Hong Yi-du , Lin Bai-quan , Zhu Chuan-jie
Published: June 2016

The overpressures, flame velocities and flow speeds were investigated in closed-end and open-end tubes via numerical simulations. Our results suggest that the tube geometry influences the evolution of these parameters. The peak overpressure initially decreased and eventually increased with the aspect ratio in both types of tubes. The flow speed initially increased and then decreased with the propagation distance in the closed-end tube, but it increased with increasing distance in the open-end tube. Empirical equations relating the peak overpressure and the peak flow speed are presented. The flame velocities in the open-end tubes were always greater than those in the closed-end tubes, especially the maximum flame velocity. The open end promoted flame acceleration, while the closed end resulted in near-wall deceleration. The results provide a reference for future limited-space gas explosion studies.
Exploring physicians’ extended use of electronic health records (EHRs)
Authors: Wang Wen , Zhao Xiping , Sun Jinglei , Zhou Guangquan
Published: June 2016

Background:

Once electronic health records (EHRs) have been fully implemented and integrated into the daily work of a healthcare organisation/hospital, there is considerable pressure on management to demonstrate the benefits that these systems can deliver to the organisation. One practical way to maximise the value and highlight the benefits of EHRs is to encourage physicians to increase and extend their use of EHR functions.

Objective:

This study used a social influence theory context to examine the impact of mechanisms of social influence on the intentions of physicians to extend their use of EHRs.

Method:

A survey of physicians ( n = 205) in a first-class comprehensive hospital in southern China was conducted approximately 2 years after the hospital’s introduction of EHRs. A 16-item questionnaire was developed to measure the impact of four social influence factors (reward, punishment, social image and group norm) on physicians’ intentions to extend their use of EHRs. The research model included two additional control variables (perceived usefulness and perceived ease of use) to account for potential covariance among social influence measures.

Results:

The study’s research model showed significant relationships between physicians’ responses on two of the social influence measures (rewards and group norm) and their intentions to extend their use of EHRs. Punishment and social image measures did not influence physicians’ intentions to increase their use of EHRs.

Conclusion:

These findings have suggested that for healthcare organisations to maximise the benefits of EHRs, the efforts of hospital management should be directed towards rewarding those physicians who increase their use of EHRs; and to promoting and reinforcing the increased usage of EHRs among physicians as a group norm.
Impact of Disease Management Programs on HbA1c Values in Type 2 Diabetes Patients in Germany
Authors: Kostev Karel , Rockel Timo , Jacob Louis
Published: June 2016

Background:

The aim was to analyze the impact of disease management programs on HbA1c values in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients in Germany.

Methods:

This study included 9017 patients followed in disease management programs (DMPs) who started an antihyperglycemic treatment upon inclusion in a DMP. Standard care (SC) patients were included after individual matching (1:1) to DMP cases based on age, gender, physician (diabetologist versus nondiabetologist care), HbA1c values at baseline, and index year. The main outcome was the share of patients with HbA1c <7.5% or 6.5% after at least 6 months and less than 12 months of therapy in DMP and SC groups. Multivariate logistic regression models were fitted with HbA1c level as a dependent variable and the potential predictor (DMP versus SC).

Results:

The mean age was 64.3 years and 54.7% of the patients were men. The mean HbA1c level at baseline was equal to 8.7%. In diabetologist practices, 64.7% of DMP patients and 55.1% of SC patients had HbA1c levels <7.5%, while 23.4% of DMP patients and 16.9% of SC patients had HbA1c levels <6.5% ( P values < .001). By comparison, in general practices, 72.4% of DMP patients and 65.7% of SC patients had HbA1c levels <7.5%, while 29.0% of DMP patients and 25.4% of SC patients had HbA1c levels <6.5% ( P values < .001). DMPs increased the likelihood of HbA1c levels lower than 7.5% or 6.5% after 6 months of therapy in both diabetologist and general care practices.

Conclusion:

The present study indicates that the enrollment of T2DM patients in DMPs has a positive impact on HbA1c values in Germany.
Significant weight loss following clozapine use, how is it possible? A case report and review of published cases and literature relevant to the subject
Authors: Tungaraza Tongeji E.
Published: June 2016

It has been repeatedly shown that clozapine is more efficacious than other antipsychotics in the management of treatment-resistant schizophrenia. However, clozapine is associated with a number of side effects including weight gain. Antipsychotic-induced weight gain has been linked with a number of untoward events including psychological factors such as stigma and low self-esteem, and physical factors such as metabolic syndromes and untimely death. The mechanism underlying antipsychotic (including clozapine)-induced weight gain is not clearly understood, although it is said to involve several brain areas, several neurotransmitters, neuropeptides and genetic factors. To some individuals however, clozapine use is associated with significant weight loss (13.5–50% of body weight). The observed weight loss in these groups of patients has not been attributed to any underlying diagnosable physical disorders. There have been a handful cases published with this phenomenon, which seems to be contrary to what is expected when clozapine is prescribed. From the currently published cases three groups emerge – those who lost weight simply by taking clozapine, those who lost weight due to improved mental state, engaging in diet and increased exercise, and those for whom weight loss was a sign of a poor response to clozapine. A case of JX who has a diagnosis of schizoaffective disorder is presented. JX lost over 26% of her body weight when she was prescribed clozapine. A detailed review of other published cases is undertaken. The underlying mechanisms involving weight loss are discussed and the implications to clinicians are highlighted. Coordinated studies to examine these groups of patients may provide some insight, not only in the mechanism of clozapine-induced weight loss, but also in the better management of patients with treatment-resistant schizophrenia involving clozapine use.
Efficacy of Osteoconductive Ceramics in Bioresorbable Screws for Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction
Authors: Barth Johannes , Akritopoulos Panagiotis , Graveleau Nicolas , Barthelemy Renaud , Toanen Cécile , Saffarini Mo
Published: June 2016

Background:

Osteoconductive additives are used in resorbable interference screws for anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction to improve graft incorporation and mitigate adverse effects. There are no published studies that compare biological performances of bioresorbable and biocomposite screws without artifacts due to different follow-up times and intrinsic patient characteristics.

Purpose/Hypothesis:

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of osteoconductive agents in bioresorbable screws for ACL reconstruction at minimum follow-up of 2 years by intrapatient comparison. The hypothesis was that osteoconductive ceramics would result in slower resorption, improved ossification, and less tunnel widening.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 2.

Methods:

A total of 28 ACL reconstructions at 2 centers were randomly assigned into 2 comparable groups: (1) the graft was fixed in the tibia using standard bioresorbable screws and in the femur using biocomposite screws with osteoconductive agents (biphasic calcium phosphate), and (2) the graft was fixed in the femur using a standard bioresorbable screw and in the tibia using a biocomposite screw with osteoconductive agents.

Results:

Twenty-seven patients completed evaluations at 29.9 ± 4.0 months. Resorption was complete for more bioresorbable (81%) than biocomposite (37%) screws ( P = .0029), whereas satisfactory ossification was observed in more biocomposite (52%) than bioresorbable (15%) screws ( P = .0216). The tunnel shape was normal in more biocomposite (81%) than bioresorbable (48%) screws ( P = .0126), and marked cortical formation was twice more frequent for biocomposite (78%) than bioresorbable (37%) screws ( P = .0012). Bioresorbable screws exhibited faster resorption in the femur ( P = .0202) but not in the tibia (not significant). Conversely, biocomposite screws demonstrated better ossification, less tunnel widening, and more cortical formation in the tibia ( P < .0001, P = .0227, and P < .0001, respectively) but not in the femur (not significant for all).

Conclusion:

Osteoconductive additives can reduce the extent of resorption while improving ossification, reducing tunnel widening, and increasing cortical formation.

Clinical Relevance:

The benefits of osteoconductive agents justify their associated costs for ACL reconstruction, particularly in the tibia.
Clinical risk scores for predicting stroke-associated pneumonia: A systematic review
Authors: Kishore Amit K , Vail Andy , Bray Benjamin D , Chamorro Angel , Napoli Mario Di , Kalra Lalit , Langhorne Peter , Montaner Joan , Roffe Christine , Rudd Anthony G , Tyrrell Pippa J , de Beek Diederik van , Woodhead Mark , Meisel Andreas , Smith Craig J
Published: June 2016

Purpose

Several risk stratification scores for predicting stroke-associated pneumonia have been derived. We aimed to evaluate the performance and clinical usefulness of such scores for predicting stroke-associated pneumonia.

Method

A systematic literature review was undertaken in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses statement, with application of the Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy-2 tool. Published studies of hospitalised adults with ischaemic stroke, intracerebral haemorrhage, or both, which derived and validated an integer-based clinical risk score, or externally validated an existing score to predict occurrence of stroke-associated pneumonia, were considered and independently screened for inclusion by two reviewers.

Findings

We identified nine scores, from eight derivation cohorts. Age was a component of all scores, and the NIHSS score in all except one. Six scores were internally validated and five scores were externally validated. The A2DS2 score (Age, Atrial fibrillation, Dysphagia, Severity [NIHSS], Sex) was the most externally validated in 8 independent cohorts. Performance measures were reported for eight scores. Discrimination tended to be more variable in the external validation cohorts (C statistic 0.67–0.83) than the derivation cohorts (C statistic 0.74–0.85).

Discussion

Overall, discrimination and calibration were similar between the different scores. No study evaluated influence on clinical decision making or prognosis.

Conclusion

The clinical prediction scores varied in their simplicity of use and were comparable in performance. Utility of such scores for preventive intervention trials and in clinical practice remains uncertain and requires further study.
Specific combinations of donor and recipient KIR-HLA genotypes predict for large differences in outcome after cord blood transplantation
Authors: Sekine Takuya , Marin David , Cao Kai , Li Li , Mehta Pramod , Shaim Hila , Sobieski Catherine , Jones Roy , Oran Betul , Hosing Chitra , Rondon Gabriela , Alsuliman Abdullah , Paust Silke , Andersson Borje , Popat Uday , Kebriaei Partow , Muftuoglu Muharrem , Basar Rafet , Kondo Kayo , Nieto Yago , Shah Nina , Olson Amanda , Alousi Amin , Liu Enli , Sarvaria Anushruti , Parmar Simrit , Armstrong-James Darius , Imahashi Nobuhiko , Molldrem Jeffrey , Champlin Richard , Shpall Elizabeth J. , Rezvani Katayoun
Published: June 2016

Key Points

Patients homozygous for HLA-C2 group alleles have worse outcomes after CBT. CB selection based on the combination of NK licensing and activating KIRs may improve outcomes after CBT.
Idelalisib given front-line for treatment of chronic lymphocytic leukemia causes frequent immune-mediated hepatotoxicity
Authors: Lampson Benjamin L. , Kasar Siddha N. , Matos Tiago R. , Morgan Elizabeth A. , Rassenti Laura , Davids Matthew S. , Fisher David C. , Freedman Arnold S. , Jacobson Caron A. , Armand Philippe , Abramson Jeremy S. , Arnason Jon E. , Kipps Thomas J. , Fein Joshua , Fernandes Stacey , Hanna John , Ritz Jerome , Kim Haesook T. , Brown Jennifer R.
Published: June 2016

Key Points

Idelalisib as upfront therapy for CLL caused an early hepatotoxicity in a subset of primarily younger patients with IGHV-mutated disease. Multiple lines of evidence suggest that this adverse effect is immune mediated, perhaps through inhibition of regulatory T cells.
Can asthmatic subjects dive?
Authors: Adir Yochai , Bove Alfred A.
Published: June 2016

Recreational diving with self-contained underwater breathing apparatus (scuba) has grown in popularity. Asthma is a common disease with a similar prevalence in divers as in the general population. Due to theoretical concern about an increased risk for pulmonary barotrauma and decompression sickness in asthmatic divers, in the past the approach to asthmatic diver candidates was very conservative, with scuba disallowed. However, experience in the field and data in the current literature do not support this dogmatic approach. In this review the theoretical risk factors of diving with asthma, the epidemiological data and the recommended approach to the asthmatic diver candidate will be described.
Pulmonary manifestations of Sjögren's syndrome
Authors: Flament Thomas , Bigot Adrien , Chaigne Benjamin , Henique Helene , Diot Elisabeth , Marchand-Adam Sylvain
Published: June 2016

In 9–20% of cases, Sjögren's syndrome is associated with various respiratory symptoms. The most typical manifestations are chronic interstitial lung disease (ILD) and tracheobronchial disease. The most common manifestation of ILD is nonspecific interstitial pneumonia in its fibrosing variant. Other types of ILD, such as organising pneumonia, usual interstitial pneumonia and lymphocytic interstitial pneumonitis, are rare. Their radiological presentation is less distinctive, and definitive diagnosis may require the use of transbronchial or surgical lung biopsy. Corticosteroid therapy is the mainstay of ILD treatment in Sjögren's syndrome, but the use of other immunosuppressive drugs needs to be determined. ILD is a significant cause of death in Sjögren's syndrome. Tracheobronchial disease is common in Sjögren's syndrome, characterised by diffuse lymphocytic infiltration of the airway. It is sometimes responsible for a crippling chronic cough. It can also present in the form of bronchial hyperresponsiveness, bronchiectasis, bronchiolitis or recurrent respiratory infections. The management of these manifestations may require treatment for dryness and/or inflammation of the airways. Airway disease has little effect on respiratory function and is rarely the cause of death in Sjögren's syndrome patients. Rare respiratory complications such as amyloidosis, lymphoma or pulmonary hypertension should not be disregarded in Sjögren's syndrome patients.
Management of sarcoidosis in clinical practice
Authors: Jeny Florence , Bouvry Diane , Freynet Olivia , Soussan Michael , Brauner Michel , Planes Carole , Nunes Hilario , Valeyre Dominique
Published: June 2016

Sarcoidosis is a systemic disease of unknown cause with very diverse presentation, outcome, severity and need for treatments. While some presentations may be very typical, for many patients, the presentation is nonspecific, with shared associations with other diseases at times being by far more frequent or misleading, which can be a cause of significant delay and often several consultations before a diagnosis of sarcoidosis can be confirmed. This is particularly the case when pulmonary manifestations are in the forefront. The diagnosis relies on three well-known criteria. In clinical practice, these criteria are not easily implemented, particularly by physicians without expertise in sarcoidosis, which can lead to a risk of either under- or over-diagnosis. Qualifying the presentation according to sarcoidosis diagnosis is essential. However, it is often not easy to classify the presentation as typicalversuscompatible or compatibleversusinconsistent. Further investigations are needed before any other hypothesis is to be considered. It is important to detect events and to determine whether or not they are indicative of a flare of sarcoidosis. Eventually, treatment needs to be related to the correct indications. The evaluation of the efficacy and safety of treatments is crucial. To address such issues, we present five emblematic cases that illustrate this.
Thoracic involvement in generalised lymphatic anomaly (or lymphangiomatosis)
Authors: Luisi Francesca , Torre Olga , Harari Sergio
Published: June 2016

Generalised lymphatic anomaly (GLA), also known as lymphangiomatosis, is a rare disease caused by congenital abnormalities of lymphatic development. It usually presents in childhood but can also be diagnosed in adults. GLA encompasses a wide spectrum of clinical manifestations ranging from single-organ involvement to generalised disease. Given the rarity of the disease, most of the information regarding it comes from case reports. To date, no clinical trials concerning treatment are available. This review focuses on thoracic GLA and summarises possible diagnostic and therapeutic approaches.
Tobacco control in Europe: a policy review
Authors: Bertollini Roberto , Ribeiro Sofia , Mauer-Stender Kristina , Galea Gauden
Published: June 2016

Tobacco is responsible for the death of 6 million people every year globally, of whom 700 000 are in Europe. Effective policies for tobacco control exist; however, the status of their implementation varies across the World Health Organization (WHO) European Region. In order to tackle the tobacco epidemic, action has been taken though the implementation of both legally binding and non-legally binding measures. This article aims to present the achievements and challenges of tobacco control in Europe, focussing on the available legally binding instruments such as the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control and the revision of the Tobacco Products Directive at the European Union level. Tobacco still faces heavy lobbying of the tobacco industry, which has systematically contrasted policies to achieve public health objectives. The legal instruments for tobacco control in Europe presented here are not always adequately enforced in all the countries and there is certainly room for improving their implementation. Finally, the need for a strong political commitment towards the end-game of the tobacco epidemic is emphasised.
Natural experiments and large databases in respiratory and cardiovascular disease
Authors: Vestbo Jørgen
Published: June 2016

A number of scientific questions cannot be tested in a laboratory, clinic or clinical trial setting. In many cases, observational data can be used to test such hypotheses.

This article illustrates how epidemiology can contribute and shows the different ways of using observational data through three approaches: 1) prospective cohort study design; 2) time series analysis; and 3) a nested case–control design in pharmacoepidemiology.

In a prospective cohort study design, three cohorts were merged to study lung function decline, testing the importance of different trajectories of lung function decline for developing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Using these three well-described cohorts it was documented that maximally attained lung function in early adulthood is as important as excess decline in forced expiratory volume in 1 s for the development of COPD. Time series analysis is used to examine exposures and disease over time. In a recent review of cardiovascular disease some interesting associations, and not least lack of associations, were presented. Assessing effects of drugs in database studies is challenging. In a nested case–control design in a large cohort study, statins were found to reduce the risk of COPD exacerbations. These findings will be discussed.

Observational data from large databases, as well as carefully collected data in cohort studies, can be used to test hypotheses that may not be addressed in a traditional experimental setting.
Epigenetic mechanisms in pulmonary arterial hypertension: the need for global perspectives
Authors: Chelladurai Prakash , Seeger Werner , Pullamsetti Soni Savai
Published: June 2016

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a severe and progressive disease, characterised by high pulmonary artery pressure that usually culminates in right heart failure. Recent findings of alterations in the DNA methylation state of superoxide dismutase 2 and granulysin gene loci; histone H1 levels; aberrant expression levels of histone deacetylases and bromodomain-containing protein 4; and dysregulated microRNA networks together suggest the involvement of epigenetics in PAH pathogenesis. Thus, PAH pathogenesis evidently involves the interplay of a predisposed genetic background, epigenetic state and injurious events. Profiling the genome-wide alterations in the epigenetic mechanisms, such as DNA methylation or histone modification pattern in PAH vascular cells, may explain the great variability in susceptibility and disease severity that is frequently associated with pronounced remodelling and worse clinical outcome. Moreover, the influence of genetic predisposition and the acquisition of epigenetic alterations in response to environmental cues in PAH progression and establishment has largely been unexplored on a genome-wide scale. In order to gain insights into the molecular mechanisms leading to the development of PAH and to design novel therapeutic strategies, high-throughput approaches have to be adopted to facilitate systematic identification of the disease-specific networks using next-generation sequencing technologies, the application of these technologies in PAH has been relatively trivial to date.