bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inflation targeting and inflation management in Ghana
Authors: Kyereboah‐Coleman Anthony
Published: March 2012

Purpose

The Ghanaian economy has experienced relative stability, improved macroeconomic performance and resilience over the past few years, following the introduction of a new monetary policy framework called inflation targeting (IT). The purpose of this paper is to look at IT and its effect on inflation management in Ghana.

Design/methodology/approach

The study employed monthly time series data from 1980 to 2009.

Findings

The results gathered in this study demonstrate that IT has had a significant impact on the reduction of inflation series in recent years and has reduced the persistence of inflation series considerably. It is largely amplified that the implementation of an IT framework in Ghana has been a success and has contributed to a change in the conduct of monetary policy towards best practice.

Research limitations/implications

The study could have used a lot more macroeconomic variables.

Practical implications

The paper's findings are very important for Central Banks that are using the IT framework, or planning to do so, for efficiency and effectiveness.

Originality/value

The paper is the first of its kind for developing countries, especially in Africa and Ghana for that matter.
Measures of financial openness and interdependence
Authors: Clark William R. , Hallerberg Mark , Keil Manfred , Willett Thomas D.
Published: March 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to review concepts and measurements related to financial globalization such as financial openness, financial integration, monetary interdependence, and the mobility and movement of capital.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper surveys the theoretical and empirical literature on monetary interdependence and financial globalization. The major ways in which these concepts are measured empirically are presented and critiqued.

Findings

Disagreements about the degree of financial integration and capital mobility are, in part, explained by the different approaches to measuring these concepts. One major challenge in obtaining a good measures is controlling for other major factors that may influence observed correlations among financial variables. While these relationships still cannot be estimated precisely, it can be safely said that while high for many countries, few if any financial markets are perfectly integrated across countries.

Originality/value

By offering a comprehensive analysis of these different measurements, the paper underscores the different implications for national policies and the operation of the international monetary system of different dimensions of globalization. In particular, the proposition that financial globalization has left most countries with little autonomy for domestic monetary policy is subject to serious debate, at least in the short run.
The eurozone financial crisis: role of interdependencies between bank and sovereign risk
Authors: Barth James R. , Prabha Apanard (Penny) , Yun Greg
Published: March 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to discuss and then analyze the interdependency between bank and sovereign risk before, during and after the financial crisis.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors' approach is based upon an examination of 44 large banks headquartered in 13 countries; eight of these countries belong to the European Union, seven belong to the eurozone, and the remaining five belong to neither group. This provides a good comparison group of countries.

Findings

Evidence is found supporting the existence of significant bank and sovereign risk linkages. There are, however, different patterns in the relationships across countries and even across banks within the same country. Also, higher correlations between bank and sovereign risk are found in countries in which the ratio of the assets of banks relative to their home country's GDP is relatively high.

Research limitations/implications

Based upon the empirical results, allowing banks to invest in sovereign debt without requiring them to hold any capital against the “true” risk of such debt increases the likelihood of insolvency. This means that interdependencies between bank and sovereign risk are extremely important when setting regulatory capital requirements and considering whether action is needed to limit any increase in the likelihood of contagion.

Originality/value

The paper provides a new examination of the interdependencies between individual bank risk and the sovereign risk of the countries in which they are headquartered, with special emphasis on the recent global financial and eurozone crises.
Allogeneic Stem Cell Transplantation for Myelofibrosis in 2012
Authors: McLornan Donal P. , Mead Adam J. , Jackson Graham , Harrison Claire N.
Published: March 2012

Myelofibrosis (MF) is a heterogeneous disease for which long‐term, effective medical therapeutic options are currently limited. The role of allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplant (AHSCT) in this population, many of whom are elderly, often provides a challenge with regard to the identification of suitable candidates, timing of transplantation in the disease course and choice of conditioning regimen. This review summarizes key findings from published data concerning AHSCT in MF and attempts to provide a state of the art approach to MF‐AHSCT in 2012. In addition, we postulate on how the era of JAK inhibition might impact on transplantation for MF.
Time trend in tumour size and characteristics of anaplastic thyroid carcinoma
Authors: Han Ji Min , Kim Won Bae , Kim Tae Yong , Ryu Jin‐Sook , Gong Gyungyub , Hong Suck Joon , Kim Jung‐Han , Oh Young Lyun , Jang Hye Won , Kim Sun Wook , Chung Jae Hoon , Shong Young Kee
Published: March 2012

Objective

Anaplastic thyroid carcinoma (ATC) is one of the most aggressive malignancies. Nevertheless, there have been reports that some patients experience long‐term survival and those in whom ATCs of small size are often detected. We evaluated the time trend of characteristics of ATC such as size and association with coexistent differentiated thyroid carcinoma (DTC). We also found the characteristics of patients showing long‐term survival.

Design and Patients

This is a retrospective observational cohort study from the two major tertiary referral hospitals in Seoul, Korea. Ninety‐five patients who had been diagnosed with ATC from 1995 to 2010 were included. We classified them into three groups according to the time of initial diagnosis: group 1 (1995–1999), group 2 (2000–2004) and group 3 (2005–2010).

Results

The mean tumour size decreased significantly according to groups; 6·2, 5·5 and 4·0 cm in group 1, 2 and 3, respectively (P = 0·02). The frequency of cases with coexistent DTC increased; 10·3%, 35·1% and 48·3% in group 1, 2 and 3, respectively (P = 0·02). Fifteen of 95 patients survived more than 24 months, and among them, 13 are still alive who underwent curative surgery. Among 15 long‐term survivors, nine patients with ATC arising from DTC had ATC tumour portion less than 1 cm. Another five patients with ATC without coexistent DTC had relatively small‐sized tumours (1·0–4·0 cm).

Conclusion

The tumour size of ATC decreased, and cases with coexistent DTC increased over the last two decades. We found that patients with ATC showing long‐term survival are those who had atypical presentations such as anaplastic transformation in early stage of DTC or small size of tumours without coexistent DTC.
Developmental Therapeutics Consortium report on study design effects on trial outcomes in chronic myeloid leukaemia
Authors: Giles Francis , Mahon François‐Xavier , Gjertsen Bjorn , Swords Ronan , Labar Boris , Turkina Anna , Rosti Gianantonio
Published: March 2012

Eur J Clin Invest 2012; 42 (9): 1016–1026

Background  Tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) have dramatically changed the treatment of chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML). Results from ongoing phase 3 trials with nilotinib [Efficacy and Safety in Clinical Trials—Newly Diagnosed Patients (ENESTnd)] and dasatinib [Dasatinib Versus Imatinib Study in Treatment‐Naive CML‐CP Patients (DASISION)] in newly diagnosed patients with CML in chronic phase have demonstrated that these TKIs resulted in significant improvements in responses vs. imatinib.

Design  The Developmental Therapeutics Consortium (DTC) systematically reviewed the published literature to provide a comparative analysis of the ENESTnd and DASISION trial designs and data reported on each study.

Results  The recent approval of nilotinib and dasatinib based on these two pivotal studies offers physicians the option to optimise frontline treatment based on a patient’s comorbidities, risk factors and tolerability profiles. Although nilotinib and dasatinib provide effective therapeutic options for the frontline treatment of CML, the lack of an evidenced‐based, side‐by‐side comparison makes it difficult to directly compare these agents.

Conclusions  Despite potential bias from differences in patient populations and study design, indirect cross‐trial comparisons to determine the relative effectiveness of these agents will be performed by physicians. This DTC report provides a comprehensive summary of the study designs, protocols and results of the ENESTnd and DASISION trials, which will assist physicians in making informed decisions on the best treatment approach for their patients.
Genome editing in induced pluripotent stem cells
Authors: Cheng Li‐Tao , Sun Liang‐Tso , Tada Takashi
Published: April 2012

The discovery of induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells has broadened the promises of regenerative medicine through the generation of syngeneic replacement cells or tissues via the differentiation of patient‐specific iPS cells. To apply iPS cell‐mediated therapy to patients with genetic disorders, however, genome‐editing technologies with high efficiency and specificity are needed. Recently, several targeted genome‐editing strategies mediated by zinc finger nuclease and transcription activator‐like effector nuclease have been applied to human and mouse iPS cells. Furthermore, spontaneous homologous recombination can restore genotype to wild type in mouse iPS cells heterozygous for genetic mutations. Through genome editing, the clinical application of patient‐specific genetic mutation‐free iPS cells to genetic disorders can finally be realized.
Inter‐observer variability in the histological assessment of colorectal polyps detected through the NHS Bowel Cancer Screening Programme
Authors: Foss Fiona A , Milkins Steve , McGregor Angus H
Published: April 2012

Foss F A, Milkins S & McGregor A H  (2012) Histopathology 61, 47–52

Inter‐observer variability in the histological assessment of colorectal polyps detected through the NHS Bowel Cancer Screening Programme

Aims:  Although effective clinical management of colorectal polyps detected through the National Health Service (NHS) Bowel Cancer Screening Programme (BCSP) is dependent on the quality of pathological diagnosis, there have been few attempts to formally evaluate inter‐observer variability in histological assessment. The aim of this study was to examine the impact of inter‐observer variability on the reported prevalence of prognostic features in a large series of screen‐detected colorectal polyps.

Methods and results:  A retrospective series of 1329 screen‐detected polyps (2008–10) was identified from computerized records at two histopathology departments participating in the NHS BCSP. Slides from a sample of 239 polyps were exchanged between centres for independent review and measurement of inter‐observer (kappa) agreement. There were significant between‐centre differences in the prevalence of polyps with high‐risk histological features. Diagnostic review demonstrated good reliability with respect to the assessment of adenomatous change (κ = 0.83), excision margin status (κ = 0.74), high‐grade dysplasia (0.61) and invasive malignancy (κ = 0.84). By contrast, there were significant inter‐observer differences in the classification of villous lesions (0.18) despite recent efforts to standardize reporting practice.

Conclusions:  Inter‐observer variability in the assessment of screen‐detected colorectal polyps limits the prognostic value of histological subtyping and highlights the need for clarification of existing diagnostic criteria.
Morphological differentiation of severe aplastic anaemia from hypocellular refractory cytopenia of childhood: reproducibility of histopathological diagnostic criteria
Authors: Baumann Irith , Führer Monika , Behrendt Sonja , Campr Vit , Csomor Judit , Furlan Ingrid , de Haas Valérie , Kerndrup Gitte , Leguit Roos J , De Paepe Pascale , Noellke Peter , Niemeyer Charlotte , Schwarz Stephan
Published: March 2012

Baumann I, Führer M, Behrendt S, Campr V, Csomor J, Furlan I, de Haas V, Kerndrup G, Leguit R J, De Paepe P, Noellke P, Niemeyer C & Schwarz S  (2012) Histopathology 61, 10–17

Morphological differentiation of severe aplastic anaemia from hypocellular refractory cytopenia of childhood: reproducibility of histopathological diagnostic criteria

Aims:  To evaluate the reproducibility and reliability of the histomorphological criteria differentiating severe aplastic anaemia (SAA) and hypoplastic refractory cytopenia of childhood (RCC), the most frequently acquired hypocellular bone marrow conditions of childhood.

Methods and results:  We performed a double‐blind interobserver study of 100 different cases of SAA and RCC among seven haematopathologists of the European Working Group of MDS in Childhood (EWOG‐MDS) and the German SAA study. Cases with foci of typical myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) morphology, such as patchy erythropoiesis with defective maturation, in an otherwise highly hypocellular or adipocytic bone marrow were classified as having RCC. Bone marrow samples without a patchy distribution, few scattered myeloid cells or haematopoietic aplasia were diagnosed as SAA. In only four of 100 cases did the reference pathologists not reach agreement regarding classification as SAA or RCC. The kappa index was 0.79.

Conclusions:  Our results show that the vast majority of SAA and RCC cases can be reliably differentiated by morphological means alone. A clear differentiation between SAA and RCC at presentation is mandatory for optimizing therapy strategies, and might be responsible for the fact that, in the German childhood SAA study, the probability of developing clonal disease after immunosuppressive therapy has dropped to 3%.
Submucosal glands in the columnar‐lined oesophagus: evidence of an association with metaplasia and neosquamous epithelium
Authors: Lörinc Ester , Öberg Stefan
Published: March 2012

Lörinc E & Öberg S  (2012) Histopathology 61, 53–58

Submucosal glands in the columnar‐lined oesophagus: evidence of an association with metaplasia and neosquamous epithelium

Aim:  A multipotential stem cell, possibly located in the submucosal gland ducts, has been suggested as the origin of metaplastic mucosa in the oesophagus. The topographic distribution of these glands and their excretory ducts (SMG) within the columnar lined oesophagus (CLO) is largely unknown. The aim of this study was to examine the distribution of SMG in relation to the type of overlying epithelium in patients with CLO.

Methods and results:  Seven oesophageal resection specimens were examined histologically in toto. The median frequency of SMG was similar in the metaplastic segments (0.12 SMG/mm) and the normal squamous segments (0.10 SMG/mm). Within the metaplastic segments, the median frequency of SMG beneath the squamous islands was significantly higher than that observed under the columnar lined parts (0.22 versus 0.08 SMG/mm, P = 0.046), There was a strong accumulation of SMG at the squamo‐columnar transition zones (0.53 SMG/mm), which was significantly greater than that found in the columnar and squamous parts (P = 0.001 and 0.002, respectively).

Conclusions:  The relative accumulation of SMG beneath squamous islands and the squamo‐columnar junctions within the metaplastic segment supports the hypothesis that both metaplastic columnar mucosa and neosquamous epithelium originate from a progenitor in the SMG.
αB‐crystallin is a useful marker for triple negative and basal breast cancers
Authors: Tsang Julia Y S , Lai Michael W H , Wong Ken H Y , Chan Siu‐Ki , Lam Christopher C F , Tsang Alex K H , Yu Alex M C , Tan Puay‐Hoon , Tse Gary M
Published: March 2012

Tsang J Y S, Lai M W H, Wong K H Y, Chan S‐K, Lam C C F, Tsang A K H, Yu A M C, Tan P‐H & Tse G M  (2012) Histopathology 61, 378–386

αB‐crystallin is a useful marker for triple negative and basal breast cancers

Aims:  Basal‐like breast cancers (BLBCs), a breast cancer subtype with triple‐negative status, pose significant problems in clinical management because of their aggressive behaviour. Recently, an association between αΒ‐crystallin expression and BLBCs has been suggested, and we therefore investigated whether αΒ‐crystallin could be a putative marker allowing BLBCs to be identified more accurately.

Methods and results:  We evaluated the expression of αB‐crystallin and other biomarkers in 395 cases of breast carcinoma by immunohistochemistry, analysed the correlation of their expression with different breast cancer subtypes, and compared their sensitivity as well as specificity in identifying BLBCs. αΒ‐crystallin expression was found to be correlated positively with basal markers and histological subtypes associated with BLBCs. A significant positive correlation of αΒ‐crystallin expression was also found with triple‐negative breast cancers (TNBC) (C = 0.409, P < 0.001) and BLBCs (C = 0.393, P < 0.001). Comparing αΒ‐crystallin with other basal markers, only αΒ‐crystallin demonstrated both high sensitivity (48.6%) and specificity (93.8%) as a TNBC marker. All other markers showed either a lower sensitivity of <40% or a lower specificity of <90%. αΒ‐crystallin also demonstrated a high specificity (92.9%) and an even higher sensitivity (56.5%) for BLBCs.

Conclusions:  The findings indicated that αB‐crystallin was a highly sensitive and specific marker for TNBCs and BLBCs.
A fast and efficient polymerase chain reaction‐based method for the preparation of in situ hybridization probes
Authors: Ghafoory Shahrouz , Breitkopf‐Heinlein Katja , Li Qi , Dzieran Johanna , Scholl Catharina , Dooley Steven , Wölfl Stefan
Published: March 2012

Ghafoory S, Breitkopf‐Heinlein K, Li Q, Dzieran J, Scholl C, Dooley S & Wölfl S  (2012) Histopathology 61, 306–313

A fast and efficient polymerase chain reaction‐based method for the preparation of in situ hybridization probes

Aims:  In situ hybridization (ISH) is the method of choice for analysis of the local distribution of gene expression in tissue samples at the cellular level. In this study we present a rapid and efficient protocol for the generation of labelled cRNA probes.

Methods and results:  The protocol is based on the preparation of DNA in vitro transcription templates using polymerase chain reaction (PCR), using primers that include RNA polymerase promoter sequences and size‐based purification of PCR fragments containing the target gene‐specific cDNA and promoter elements for T7 and SP6 RNA polymerase. The optimized purification protocols ensure high transcription efficiency and target specificity of the labelled cRNA. The cRNA hybridization probes obtained are compatible with established in situ hybridization protocols.

Conclusions:  Purified PCR fragment‐based in vitro transcription enables preparation of in situ hybridization probes which allow the rapid detection of gene expression distribution in tissue slices from any gene of interest.
Consistent mutation status within histologically heterogeneous lung cancer lesions
Authors: Mattsson Johanna Sofia Margareta , Imgenberg‐Kreuz Juliana , Edlund Karolina , Botling Johan , Micke Patrick
Published: March 2012

Mattsson J S M, Imgenberg‐Kreuz J, Edlund K, Botling J & Micke P  (2012) Histopathology 61, 744–748

Consistent mutation status within histologically heterogeneous lung cancer lesions

Aims:  Activating epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and KRAS mutations characterize molecular subgroups of non‐small‐cell lung cancer (NSCLC) with a strong predictive value for response to EGFR inhibitor therapy. However, the temporal occurrence and clonal stability of these mutations during the course of cancer progression are debated. The aim of this study was to characterize the presence of EGFR and KRAS mutations in histologically different areas of primary NSCLC lesions.

Methods and results:  Formalin‐fixed paraffin‐embedded cancer specimens from six cases with EGFR mutations and five cases with KRAS mutations were selected from a pool of primary resected NSCLC patients. From each tumour, three morphologically distinct areas were manually microdissected and analysed for the presence of mutations. The results demonstrated consistent EGFR and KRAS mutation status in the different histological areas of all primary tumours.

Conclusions:  The results support the concept that activating EGFR and KRAS mutations are oncogenic events that are consistently present throughout the primary tumour independently of histological heterogeneity. Thus, for molecular diagnostics, any part of the tumour is likely to be representative for EGFR and KRAS mutation testing.
Reflections and opinions on 25 years with the ISJ
Authors: Avison David , Fitzgerald Guy
Published: April 2012

Reflecting on 25 years as editors of the Information Systems Journal(ISJ), we analyse some statistics on the ISJ over this period. These include the origins of papers published in terms of author gender, geographical region and academic department, the type of research in terms of positivist or interpretive (and empirical, critical and descriptive, if the latter) and qualitative, quantitative, mixed or descriptive, research method and research category. The paper also consists of personal reflections on the ISJ discussing issues such as motivation for journal editing, impact of research on practice (and vice versa) and loss of control as the journal develops. We also use the ISJ lens to reflect on the discipline of IS as a whole. We hope therefore that this paper might also form part of a collection on the history of the IS discipline.
Comparison of conventional and digital radiography systems with regard to radiopacity of root canal filling materials
Authors: Akcay I. , Ilhan B. , Dundar N.
Published: March 2012

Akcay I, Ilhan B, Dundar N. Comparison of conventional and digital radiography systems with regard to radiopacity of root canal filling materials. International Endodontic Journal, 45, 730–736, 2012.

Aim  To compare the radiopacity of five root filling materials as measured on digitized E‐speed films, storage phosphor plate and CCD sensor images.

Methodology  Radiopacity of Resilon cones and Epiphany, MM‐Seal, EndoREZ and AH Plus sealers were investigated. Ten acrylic plates were prepared and filled with the materials. Samples were radiographed together with samples of dentine and an aluminium stepwedge. Images were obtained using E‐speed films, Digora storage phosphor plates and Schick CDR CCD sensor. Conventional radiographs were digitized using a desktop scanner. Mean grey values of the materials, stepwedge and dentine were measured using the histogram analysis function of Photoshop 7.0. A graph of radiographic density versus thickness of the aluminium was drawn for each image from which the radiographic densities of the materials were determined in relation to the aluminium thickness. The mean was calculated, and the data were analysed using repeated measures anova and Bonferroni tests (P < 0.05).

Results  There were significant differences between different imaging modalities (P = 0.018) and root filling materials (P < 0.001). A statistically significant interaction between imaging modality and material was also observed (P < 0.001). All materials had radiopacity above 3 mm of aluminium regardless of the imaging technique. The radiopacity of Resilon and Epiphany was significantly higher on digital images compared with digitized E‐speed film images (P < 0.001).

Conclusion  The choice of imaging system may effect radiopacity measurements. It is possible that radiopacity as recorded on traditional or digitized films is not indicative of the radiopacity as recorded on a digital sensor.
Iron‐mediated lipid oxidation in 70% fish oil‐in‐water emulsions: effect of emulsifier type and pH
Authors: Horn Anna F. , Nielsen Nina S. , Jacobsen Charlotte
Published: March 2012

The objective of this study was to investigate the protective effect of five different emulsifiers on iron‐mediated lipid oxidation in 70% fish oil‐in‐water emulsions. The emulsifiers were either based on protein (whey protein isolate and sodium caseinate) or based on phospholipid (soy lecithin and two milk phospholipids with different phospholipid contents, MPL20 and MPL75). Lipid oxidation was studied at pH 4.5 and 7.0, and results were compared to lipid oxidation in neat fish oil. Results showed that all emulsions oxidised more than neat oil. Furthermore, emulsions prepared with proteins oxidised more at low pH than at high pH, and casein emulsions oxidised the least (Peroxide value (PV) at day 7 was 0.5–0.7 meq kg−1). Among emulsions prepared with phospholipids, emulsions with MPL75 were the most oxidised followed by emulsions prepared with lecithin and MPL20. Thus, PV in MPL75 emulsions was 5.0–5.5 meq kg−1 at day 7 compared with 0.9–1.9 meq kg−1 in MPL20 emulsions.
Application of response surface methodology to optimise supercritical carbon dioxide extraction of oil from rapeseed (Brassica napusL.)
Authors: Yu Jing , Wang Jing , Liu Chunming , Liu Zhiqiang , Wang Qiang
Published: March 2012

Supercritical CO2fluid extraction technology was used to extract oil from rapeseed. Extraction temperature, pressure, time and the sample particle size were selected and optimised by response surface methodology. Conventional solvent extraction was applied as a comparative method. The maximum extraction yield of 32.65 ± 1.01% was achieved at a temperature of 40 °C and a pressure of 345 bar, using an extraction time of 3 h and a 60‐mesh particle size. The chemical compositions of rapeseed oil using esterification method were investigated by GC–MS. The result indicates that the main fatty acids are palmitic acid (2.60%), oleic acid (16.54%), linoleic acid (9.62%), linolenic acid (4.77%), eicosenoic acid (11.20%) and erucic acid (47.09%), respectively. Supercritical fluid extraction has been proved to be an effective technique for extracting oil fromBrassica napusL.
Effect of the degree of fusariosis on the physical characteristics of individual wheat kernels
Authors: Grabowski Andrzej , Siuda Ryszard , Lenc Leszek , Jaroszuk‐Ściseł Jolanta
Published: March 2012

This work aims to determine dependencies of single‐kernel (SK) physical traits on the kernel degree of fusariosis. The measurements were taken on samples of grain of six wheat varieties cultivated during 1–3 years. For SK mass, volume and width this dependence resulted in lowered (by at least ten to more than 25% for mass and volume, and ca. 5 to more than 15% for width) values in Fusarium culmorum infested grain as compared with the non‐inoculated control. In addition, moderately infested kernels tended to be of higher mass and size than kernels with no symptoms of infestation. An unexpected effect was a lack of dependence of SK density on the degree of infestation. Moisture content was lower for infested kernels by 6–8%, hardness tended to increase a little for moderate infestation, while it noticeable decreased for the heaviest infestation.
A review of the current status of cultural and rapid detection of Vibrio parahaemolyticus
Authors: Bisha Bledar , Simonson Janet , Janes Marlene , Bauman Kellie , Goodridge Lawrence D.
Published: March 2012

Vibrio parahaemolyticus is ubiquitous in estuarine environments and can be commonly found in seafood products. This bacterial pathogen continues to emerge as an important cause of foodborne illness, and several foodborne disease outbreaks caused by V. parahaemolyticus have been linked to the consumption of contaminated seafood, in particular those consumed raw such as oysters. In response to these outbreaks, especially during the 1990s, several cultural, immunological‐based and molecular detection methods have been developed, which allow for rapid detection and quantification of total and pathogenic V. parahaemolyticus. The development of molecular methodology has allowed for clinical and environmental isolates of V. parahaemolyticus to be subtyped, thus providing the framework for risk‐based strategies aimed at controlling foodborne outbreaks cause by this pathogen. It is important that the detection and typing methods strive to accomplish detection and differentiation of the pathogenic strains from environmental (non‐pathogenic) ones, as well as to detect the presence of the organism and not just the presence of V. parahaemolyticus produced toxins, which can also be produced by closely related species. This review covers the current status of detection and typing methodology for identification and characterisation of V. parahaemolyticus from seafood.
Evaluation of heat propagation through poultry in a reduced computational‐cost model of contact cooking
Authors: Eberth John F. , Neal Jack A. , Robles Hernandez Francisco C.
Published: March 2012

During thermal food preparation, it is essential for the product to reach safe temperature thresholds. Yet, excessive cooking is time‐consuming and decreases desirable qualities. In this work, we developed, and experimentally verified, a computationally minimum mathematical model to predict one‐dimensional temperature distribution through contact cooking of poultry. This model was based on discretising the heat equation with temperature and time varying thermophysical properties of the major constituents: water, proteins and lipids. The relative amounts of these constituents are available from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) for different poultry samples. Our results yielded an average modelling experimental temperature error of 3.15 °C. For contact cooking of a 1‐cm thick sample, the minimum time to reach the temperature threshold in a chicken breast was 368 s compared to 98.9 s when flipped at an optimised time. These techniques can be implemented into a microprocessor‐based thermal monitoring system to non‐invasively predict temperature distribution in processed meat and poultry.
Volatile compounds and oxidative stability of Pinus halepensis Mill. seed oil under heating conditions
Authors: Dhibi Madiha , Flamini Guido , Issaoui Manel , Hammami Mohamed
Published: March 2012

Heating conditions of Pinus halepensis seed oil were monitored to evaluate the effect of thermo‐oxidation processes on the bioactive compounds contained in the samples. The following parameters were monitored: ultra violet absorption at 232 and 270 nm, fatty acid composition, oxidative stability, antiradical activity and aromatic profiles. Under thermo‐oxidation process, trans fatty acids (TFA) increased and conjugated linoleic acid isomers appeared. The antiradical activity significantly decreased from 73.3% to 52.5% after 120 min of heating. Oxidative stability decreased (r = −0.70). The volatile profile was heavily influenced by heating with the formation of new volatile compounds, such as the two isomers (E,Z)‐2,4‐decadienal and (E,E)‐2,4‐decadienal. α‐pinene, and the main terpene compound was very vulnerable to heating conditions. Despite its peculiar pleasant aroma and nutritional value, the P. halepensis seed oil should not be used for cooking. Indeed, under frying conditions, its antioxidant properties and oxidative stability are lost and potential toxic compounds, such as TFA and unsaturated aldehydes, are formed.
Physical inactivity in aging and dementia: a review of its relationship to pain
Authors: Plooij Bart , Scherder Erik JA , Eggermont Laura HP
Published: March 2012

Aims.  The goal of this brief review is to address studies examining the relationship between physical inactivity and pain in aging and dementia.

Background.  A decrease in the level of physical activity is characteristic of older persons, both with and without dementia. Passive behaviour is often considered to be part of the apathy frequently observed in patients with dementia, although it could also be a sign of pain.

Design.  Literature review.

Method.  Searches were performed in PubMed and Embase. A total of 15 studies concerning the relationship between physical inactivity and pain in older persons with and without dementia were identified (older persons without dementia: 12; with dementia: 3).

Results.  In older persons without dementia, a positive relationship between physical inactivity and pain has been demonstrated. In older persons with dementia, pain may cause physical inactivity and physical inactivity may cause pain.

Conclusions.  In older persons, a positive relationship between physical inactivity and pain was demonstrated. More specifically, pain may cause physical inactivity. In older persons with dementia pain may cause physical inactivity and vice versa.

Relevance to clinical practice.  Nurses’ awareness of physical inactivity as an indication of pain in older persons with and without dementia may reduce the risk of underdiagnosis and subsequent undertreatment of pain.
Job conditions, job satisfaction, somatic complaints and burnout among East African nurses
Authors: van der Doef Margot , Mbazzi Femke Bannink , Verhoeven Chris
Published: March 2012

Aims.  To describe job conditions, job satisfaction, somatic complaints and burnout of female East African nurses working in public and private hospitals and to determine how these well‐being outcomes are associated with job conditions.

Background.  Insight into job conditions, health and well‐being status and their interrelation is virtually lacking for East African nurses.

Design.  Cross‐sectional survey of 309 female nurses in private and public hospitals in Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda.

Methods.  Nurses completed a survey assessing job conditions and job satisfaction (the Leiden Quality of Work Life Questionnaire – nurses version), somatic complaints (subscale of the Symptom CheckList) and burnout (Maslach Burnout Inventory).

Results.  The East African nurses show high levels of somatic complaints, and nearly one‐third of the sample would be labelled as burned out. In comparison with a Western European nurses reference group, the nurses score unfavourably on job conditions that require financial investment (e.g. workload, staffing, equipment and materials). On aspects related to the social climate (e.g. decision latitude, cooperation), however, they score more favourably. In comparison with private hospital nurses, public hospital nurses score similarly on aspects related to the social climate, but worse on the other job conditions. Public hospital nurses have a lower job satisfaction than private hospital nurses, but show comparable levels of somatic complaints and burnout. Strongest correlates of low job satisfaction are low supervisor support and low financial reward. Burnout is mainly associated with high workload and inadequate information provision, whereas somatic complaints are associated with demanding physical working conditions.

Conclusions.  Improvement in job conditions may reduce the high levels of burnout and somatic complaints and enhance job satisfaction in East African nurses.

Relevance to clinical practice.  Efforts and investments should be made to improve the job conditions in East African nurses as they are key persons in the delivery of health care.
Blood cleansing cells in head kidney and spleen in Buenos Aires tetra, Hyphessobrycon anisitsi (Eigenmann), (Characidae: Teleostei)
Authors: Leknes I L
Published: March 2012

The general structure and cell types in kidney and spleen in Buenos Aires tetra, Hyphessobrycon anisitsi, family Characidae, are described. The capability and capacity of these organs to clean foreign ferritin from the blood stream are analysed and compared. Head kidney was mainly composed of neutrophils, macrophages, lymphocytes and other white blood cells, whereas unmatured and matured red blood cells were few in number. Spleen often contained much red pulp, that is mainly matured red blood cells between splenic cords, often with some macrophages and neutrophils in the latter. Occasionally, this pulp contained large volumes of unmatured red blood cells, particularly in the periphery of the spleen. The splenic white pulp consisted of ellipsoids composed of an inner endothelial layer covered by a thick sheet of white blood cells, which in the periphery consisted mainly of macrophages. Erythrocytes occupied nearly the entire splenic volume in some specimens, whereas up to half of this volume was filled by ellipsoid macrophages, neutrophils, lymphocytes and other white blood cells in other specimens. The macrophages and sinusoidal endothelial cells in kidney and spleen from ferritin‐injected specimens were tightly packed by yellow‐brown granules or Prussian blue precipitations, in tissue treated with Mallory stain or acid ferrocyanide, respectively, suggesting a large uptake of foreign ferritin. In the present tetra large amounts of white blood cells are developed in head kidney, where macrophages and sinusoidal endothelial cells play important roles in the cleansing of scavenger and foreign molecules and particles from the blood stream. The spleen seems primarily to be a site for iron recycling and production and storage of red blood cells. Sometimes, however, it was rich in macrophages, neutrophils, lymphocytes and other white blood cells, suggesting functions like blood cleansing and non‐specific and specific defence in such specimens.
‘If you listen to me properly, I feel good’: a qualitative examination of patient experiences of dietetic consultations
Authors: Hancock R. E. E. , Bonner G. , Hollingdale R. , Madden A. M.
Published: April 2012

How to cite this article: Hancock R.E.E., Bonner G., Hollingdale R. & Madden A.M. (2012) ‘If you listen to me properly, I feel good’ a qualitative examination of patient experiences of dietetic consultations. J Hum Nutr Diet. 25, 275–284

Background:  There is considerable interest in healthcare research regarding communication skills and some debate surrounding the effectiveness of a patient‐centred approach to care. Understanding patient experiences of consultations can help indicate how consultations can be modified to improve effectiveness. At present, there is little research exploring patient experience of dietetic consultations. The present study aimed to achieve a better understanding of patients’ experiences of dietetic consultations using qualitative analysis.

Methods:  Patients undergoing consultations with a dietitian were invited to discuss their experience of the consultation with a research dietitian who was not involved in their care. Individual interviews and focus groups were conducted and analysed using the Framework approach.

Results:  Seventeen patients participated and described their experiences of consultations, which were varied and influenced by factors such as information given (resources, explanation, repetition, consistency); their dietitian’s approach (prescriptive or nonprescriptive, use of behaviour change skills), behaviour (listening skills, body language) and appointment (expectations, involvement of the multidisciplinary team, length of time); and their own internal experience (confidence, guilt, frustration). Patients agreed that certain factors, such as good communication and rapport, receiving effective and reliable information and resources, and nonjudgmental, regular support, were important factors in creating a positive experience of their consultation. However, they differed in what they believed constituted these factors.

Conclusions:  Patients like dietitians to adopt a patient‐centred approach, which might be either patient‐ or practitioner‐led, and to take account of what they wanted from consultations, adapting these to meet their individual requirements.
Primary care for adults with Down syndrome: adherence to preventive healthcare recommendations
Authors: Jensen K. M. , Taylor L. C. , Davis M. M.
Published: March 2012

Background  Due to significant medical improvements, persons with Down syndrome now live well into adulthood. Consequently, primary care for adults with Down syndrome needs to incorporate routine care with screening for condition‐specific comorbidities. This study seeks to evaluate the adherence of primary care physicians to age‐ and condition‐specific preventive care in a cohort of adults with Down syndrome.

Methods  In this retrospective observational cohort study, preventive screening was evaluated in patients with Down syndrome aged 18–45 years who received primary care in an academic medical centre from 2000 to 2008. Comparisons were made based on the field of patients' primary care providers (Family or Internal Medicine).

Results  This cohort included 62 patients, median index age = 33 years. Forty per cent of patients received primary care by Family Physicians, with 60% seen by Internal Medicine practices. Patient demographics, comorbidities and overall screening patterns were similar between provider groups. Despite near universal screening for obesity and hypothyroidism, adherence to preventive care recommendations was otherwise inconsistent. Screening was ‘moderate’ (50–80%) for cardiac anomalies, reproductive health, dentition, and the combined measure of behaviour, psychological, or memory abnormalities. Less than 50% of patients were evaluated for obstructive sleep apnea, atlanto‐axial instability, hearing loss or vision loss.

Conclusions  We observed inconsistent preventive care in adults with Down syndrome over this 8.5‐year study. This is concerning, given that the adverse effects of many of these conditions can be ameliorated if discovered in a timely fashion. Further studies must evaluate the implications of screening practices and more timely identification of comorbidities on clinical outcomes.
The factors affecting end‐of‐life decision‐making by physicians of patients with intellectual disabilities in the Netherlands: a qualitative study
Authors: Wagemans A. , van Schrojenstein Lantman‐de Valk H. , Proot I. , Metsemakers J. , Tuffrey‐Wijne I. , Curfs L.
Published: March 2012

Background  The aim of this study was to investigate the process of end‐of‐life decision‐making regarding people with intellectual disabilities (ID) in the Netherlands, from the perspective of physicians.

Methods  This qualitative study involved nine semi‐structured interviews with ID physicians in the Netherlands after the deaths of patients with ID that involved end‐of‐life decisions. The interviews were transcribed verbatim and analysed using Grounded Theory procedures.

Results  Four main contributory factors to the physicians decision‐making process were identified, three of which are related to the importance of relatives' wishes and opinions: (1) Involving relatives in decision‐making. As they had assessed their patients as lacking capacity, the physicians gave very great weight to the opinions and wishes of the relatives and tended to follow these wishes. (2) Delegating quality of life assessments to relatives. Physicians justified their end‐of‐life decisions based on their medical assessment, but left the assessment of the patients' quality of life to relatives, despite having their own implicit opinion about quality of life. (3) Good working relationships. Physicians sought consensus with relatives and paid care staff, often giving greater weight to the importance of good working relationships than to their own assessment of the patient's best interest. (4) Knowledge of the patient's vulnerabilities. Physicians used their intimate, long‐standing knowledge of the patient's fragile health.

Conclusions  In order to take a more balanced decision, physicians should seek possibilities to involve patients with ID themselves and other stakeholders which are important for the patients. Physicians who have known the patient over time should rely more on their own knowledge of the patient's needs and preferences, seek the input of others, and openly take the lead in the decision‐making process.
A promising new wavelength region for three‐photon fluorescence microscopy of live cells
Authors: NORRIS GREG , AMOR RUMELO , DEMPSTER JOHN , AMOS WILLIAM B. , McCONNELL GAIL
Published: March 2012

We report three‐photon laser scanning microscopy (3PLSM) using a bi‐directional pumped optical parametric oscillator (OPO) with signal wavelength output at λ= 1500 nm. This novel laser was used to overcome the high optical loss in the infrared spectral region observed in laser scanning microscopes and objective lenses that renders them otherwise difficult to use for imaging. To test our system, we performed 3PLSM auto‐fluorescence imaging of live plant cells at λ= 1500 nm, specifically Spirogyra, and compared performance with two‐photon excitation (2PLSM) imaging using a femtosecond pulsed Ti:Sapphire laser at λ= 780 nm. Analysis of cell viability based on cytoplasmic organelle streaming and structural changes of cells revealed that at similar peak powers, 2PLSM caused gross cell damage after 5 min but 3PLSM showed little or no interference with cell function after 15 min. The λ= 1500 nm OPO is thus shown to be a practical laser source for live cell imaging.
The development and testing of a new communication tool to help clinicians inform patients with obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome about treatment options
Authors: PELLETIER‐FLEURY NATHALIE , GAFNI AMIRAM , KRUCIEN NICOLAS , FLEURY BERNARD
Published: March 2012

The objective of this study was to develop a tool to help clinicians inform patients about mechanical treatment options, continuous positive airway pressure and oral appliances for obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome, and to assess its validity, reliability and acceptability. Continuous positive airway pressure is always indicated as a first‐line treatment in patients with severe obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome. However, oral appliances might be an effective treatment option in patients who fail treatment attempts, and also as a first‐line treatment for patients with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnoea. To help patients choose their initial treatment, we developed an electronic decision board to present information regarding the potential benefits and side effects of the two treatment options, using the best available evidence. In 34 healthy volunteers, to test validity we evaluated the extent to which the respondents’ preferences for a treatment changed predictably when the rate of effectiveness and side effects were modified. Reliability was tested by readministering the decision board 2 weeks afterwards (kappa test). The decision‐board acceptability was evaluated in 99 consecutive patients newly diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome. We found that the decision board was valid. Reliability was excellent (κ = 0.94). Concerning acceptability, 72% of the patients were satisfied with the information provided in the decision board and 71% indicated that it helped them to make a decision. The average score of true/false test of knowledge was 7.9 of 10 (range 3–10). The decision board we developed is a valid, reliable and acceptable tool to assess patients’ preferences.