bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spectrum of genomic alterations in FGFR3: current appraisal of the potential role of FGFR3 in advanced urothelial carcinoma
Authors: Sethakorn Nan , O'Donnell Peter H.
Published: June 2016

Molecular analysis has identified subsets of urothelial carcinoma (UC) expressing distinct genetic signatures. Genomic alterations in the oncogenic fibroblast growth factor receptor 3 (FGFR3) pathway are among the most well described in UC and have led to extensive and ongoing investigation of FGFR3‐targeted therapies in this disease, although no new drugs have yet been approved. Given the unmet need for effective treatments in advanced and metastatic UC, a better understanding of the known molecular alterations of FGFR3 and of the previous and ongoing clinical investigations of this promising target in UC deserves attention. The objective of the present review is to describe the landscape of alterations and biology of FGFR3 in UC, comprehensively summarize the current state of UC clinical trials of FGFR3 inhibitors, and discuss future therapeutic applications. Using the Pubmed and Clinicaltrials.gov databases, articles describing the spectrum and biological activity of FGFR3 genomic alterations and trials of FGFR3 inhibitors in UC were identified. Search terms included ‘FGFR3 genomic alterations’ and ‘urothelial cancer’ or ‘bladder cancer’. Genomic alterations, including translocations and activating mutations, are increasingly described in advanced and metastatic UC. The majority of clinical trials have been performed in unselected populations; however, recent studies have reported encouraging preliminary data. We argue that routine use of molecular genomic tumour analysis in UC may inform selection of patients for appropriate trials and we further investigate the potential of FGFR3 as a meaningful clinical target for this difficult disease.
Further Conceptualizing Ethnic and Racial Identity Research: The Social Identity Approach and Its Dynamic Model
Authors: Verkuyten Maykel
Published: June 2016

This article proposes a further conceptualization of ethnic and racial identity (ERI) as a fundamental topic in developmental research. Adding to important recent efforts to conceptually integrate and synthesize this field, it is argued that ERI research will be enhanced by more fully considering the implications of the social identity approach. These implications include (a) the conceptualization of social identity, (b) the importance of identity motives, (c) systematic ways for theorizing and examining the critical role of situational and societal contexts, and (d) a dynamic model of the relation between ERI and context. These implications have not been fully considered in the developmental literature but offer important possibilities for moving the field forward in new directions.
Of the multiple mechanisms leading to type 1 diabetes, T cell receptor revision may play a prominent role (is type 1 diabetes more than a single disease?)
Authors: Wagner D H
Published: June 2016

A single determinant factor for autoimmunity does not exist; disease development probably involves contributions from genetics, the environment and immune dysfunction. Type 1 diabetes is no exception. Genomewide-associated studies (GWAS) analysis in T1D has proved disappointing in revealing contributors to disease prediction; the only reliable marker has been human leucocyte antigen (HLA). Specific HLAs include DR3/DR4/DQ2/DQ8, for example. Because HLA molecules present antigen to T cells, it is reasonable that certain HLA molecules have a higher affinity to present self-antigen. Recent studies have shown that additional polymorphisms in HLA that are restricted to autoimmune conditions are further contributory. A caveat is that not all individuals with the appropriate ‘pro-autoimmune’ HLA develop an autoimmune disease. Another crucial component is autoaggressive T cells. Finding a biomarker to discriminate autoaggressive T cells has been elusive. However, a subset of CD4 helper cells that express the CD40 receptor have been described as becoming pathogenic. An interesting function of CD40 on T cells is to induce the recombination-activating gene (RAG)1/RAG2 T cell receptor recombination machinery. This observation is contrary to immunology paradigms that changes in TCR molecules cannot take place outside the thymic microenvironment. Alteration in TCR, called TCR revision, not only occurs, but may help to account for the development of autoaggressive T cells. Another interesting facet is that type 1 diabetes (T1D) may be more than a single disease; that is, multiple cellular components contribute uniquely, but result ultimately in the same clinical outcome, T1D. This review considers the process of T cell maturation and how that could favor auto-aggressive T cell development in T1D. The potential contribution of TCR revision to autoimmunity is also considered.
The role of carers in supporting the progress of care leavers in the world of work
Authors: Gilligan Robbie , Arnau‐Sabatés Laura
Published: June 2016

The aim of this component of a preliminary cross‐national study (Ireland and Catalonia) of care leavers' experience in the world of work is to explore how carers may influence the entry of young people in care into the world of work and how they may also influence the young people's progress in that world. A total of 22 care leavers, aged 23–33 years, were recruited on the basis of their having substantial employment experience since leaving care. Evidence from the interviews reveals the importance of the role of carers in the work‐related progression of the young care leavers, especially in relation to gaining work experience while they were still in care. The qualitative analysis shows that carers were influential in promoting (and sometimes hindering) progress in work and education. Carers were often reported to play an important role in opening up opportunities, giving support (modelling skill development, giving practical help, etc.), being role models and cultivating the young person's agency. On the basis of these findings, we propose an initial conceptualization of carer roles in positive work support.
Home on a care order: who the children are and what the care order is for
Authors: Fargas‐Malet Montserrat , McSherry Dominic , Pinkerton John , Kelly Greg
Published: June 2016

Compared to children in other placements, there is much less known about the characteristics and needs of children in the UK who are returned to their birth parents with a care order still in place. That is in spite of evidence to suggest they face more difficulties than young people in other placements. Based on a 2009 census of looked after children in Northern Ireland, just under 10% (n = 193) were found to be living at home under a care order. Case file reviews were conducted for a quarter of these young people (n = 47) to generate descriptive statistics showing a very diverse population. That was followed by semi‐structured interviews with members of eight families (ten children and eight birth parent/s), providing transcripts for thematic analysis. Nearly half of the young people whose case files were reviewed had experienced at least one home placement breakdown, but nearly two thirds had a stable last home placement. Care orders appeared to serve two functions: to give legal authority to social services for the monitoring of placements, and to facilitate family access to family support services. Replacing some care orders with supervision orders might better align legal status and actual function.
Comparable responses of osteoblast lineage cells to microstructured hydrophilic titanium–zirconium and microstructured hydrophilic titanium
Authors: Lotz Ethan M. , Olivares‐Navarrete Rene , Hyzy Sharon L. , Berner Simon , Schwartz Zvi , Boyan Barbara D.
Published: June 2016

Objectives

Although titanium (Ti) is commonly used for dental implants, Ti alloy materials are being developed to improve their physical material properties. Studies indicate that osteoblast differentiation and maturation of human mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and normal human osteoblasts (NHOsts) respond to microstructured Ti and titanium–aluminum–vanadium (Ti6Al4V) surfaces in a similar manner. The goal of this study was to determine whether this is the case for osteoblast lineage cells grown on microstructured TiZr surfaces and whether their response is affected by surface nanotexture and hydrophilicity.

Materials and Methods

Grade 4 Ti and TiZr (13–17% Zr) disks were modified by large grit sand‐blasting and acid‐etching with storage in saline solution, resulting in a complex microstructured and hydrophilic surface corresponding to the commercially available implants SLActive® and Roxolid® SLActive® (Institut Straumann AG, Basel, Switzerland). The subsequent Ti modSLA and TiZr modSLA surfaces were characterized and osteogenic markers were measured.

Results

Evaluation of physical parameters revealed that the fabrication method was capable of inducing a microstructured and hydrophilic surface on both the Ti and TiZr disks. Overall, the surfaces were similar, but differences in nanostructure morphology/density and surface chemistry were detected. On Ti modSLA and TiZr modSLA, osteoblastic differentiation and maturation markers were enhanced in both MSCs and NHOsts, while inflammatory markers decreased compared with TCPS.

Conclusions

These results indicate a similar positive cell response of MSCs and NHOsts when cultured on Ti modSLA and TiZr modSLA. Both surfaces were hydrophilic, indicating the importance of this property to osteoblast lineage cells.
Identification of oral bacteria on titanium implant surfaces by 16S rDNA sequencing
Authors: de Melo Fabiana , do Nascimento Cássio , Souza Diogo Onofre , de Albuquerque Rubens F.
Published: June 2016

Objective

To characterize the profile of microbial communities colonizing titanium implants with different surface treatments after exposure to the oral environment at the genus or higher taxonomic level.

Material and methods

Sixteen titanium disks, machined or sandblasted large‐grit and acid‐etched (SLA), were mounted on removable intraoral splints worn by four patients. After 24 h of intraoral exposure, biofilm samples were collected from disks and supra/subgingival teeth areas. The 16S rDNA genes from each sample were amplified, sequenced with the Miseq Illumina instrument and analyzed.

Results

A total of 29 genera and seven more inclusive taxa, representing the phyla Firmicutes, Proteobacteria, Fusobacteria, Bacteroidetes, Actinobacteria and candidate division TM7 were identified in both titanium surfaces and teeth. No differences were found in relation to the operational taxonomic units (OTUs) and microbial diversity, assessed by Chao 1 and Shannon indices, when comparing SLA and machined titanium surfaces.

Conclusions

Machined and SLA surfaces are colonized by similar numbers of prokaryotic OTUs after 24 h of exposure to the oral environment. Higher complexity of the titanium surface topography in the initial phase of biofilm maturation does not seem to significantly influence the colonizing microbiota.
Evaluation of non‐coding variation in GLUT1 deficiency
Authors: Liu Yu‐Chi , Lee Jia Wei Audrey , Bellows Susannah T , Damiano John A , Mullen Saul A , Berkovic Samuel F , Bahlo Melanie , Scheffer Ingrid E , Hildebrand Michael S ,   Clinical Group
Published: June 2016

Aim

Loss‐of‐function mutations in SLC2A1, encoding glucose transporter‐1 (GLUT‐1), lead to dysfunction of glucose transport across the blood–brain barrier. Ten percent of cases with hypoglycorrhachia (fasting cerebrospinal fluid [CSF] glucose <2.2mmol/L) do not have mutations. We hypothesized that GLUT1 deficiency could be due to non‐coding SLC2A1 variants.

Method

We performed whole exome sequencing of one proband with a GLUT1 phenotype and hypoglycorrhachia negative for SLC2A1 sequencing and copy number variants. We studied a further 55 patients with different epilepsies and low CSF glucose who did not have exonic mutations or copy number variants. We sequenced non‐coding promoter and intronic regions. We performed mRNA studies for the recurrent intronic variant.

Results

The proband had a de novo splice site mutation five base pairs from the intron–exon boundary. Three of 55 patients had deep intronic SLC2A1 variants, including a recurrent variant in two. The recurrent variant produced less SLC2A1 mRNA transcript.

Interpretation

Fasting CSF glucose levels show an age‐dependent correlation, which makes the definition of hypoglycorrhachia challenging. Low CSF glucose levels may be associated with pathogenic SLC2A1 mutations including deep intronic SLC2A1 variants. Extending genetic screening to non‐coding regions will enable diagnosis of more patients with GLUT1 deficiency, allowing implementation of the ketogenic diet to improve outcomes.
Thrombotic risk correlates with mutational status in true essential thrombocythemia
Authors: Bertozzi Irene , Peroni Edoardo , Coltro Giacomo , Bogoni Giulia , Cosi Elisabetta , Santarossa Claudia , Fabris Fabrizio , Randi Maria L.
Published: June 2016

Background

True essential thrombocythemia (ET) may carry one of the known driver mutations (JAK2, MPL and CALR) or none of them [in triple‐negative (3NEG) cases]. The patients' mutational status seems to delineate the clinical manifestations of ET.

Materials and methods

We report the data of 183 patients diagnosed with ET strictly according to the WHO 2008 criteria and with a full molecular diagnosis, including the following: 114 patients (62·3%) with JAK2V617F; 25 (13·7%) with CALR type 1 and 19 (10·4%) with CALR type 2; 3 (1·6%) with MPL; 22 (12%) who were 3NEG. Thrombotic risk was assessed by means of the IPSET‐thrombosis score (IPSET‐T).

Results

CALR and 3NEG patients had lower haemoglobin levels and leucocyte count than JAK2 patients. CALR patients, and those with type 2 in particular, had higher mean platelet counts and had extreme thrombocytosis more often than any of the other groups. Based on their IPSET‐T stratification, 3NEG‐ and CALR‐mutated patients belonged more frequently to the low‐risk group and had a significant more favourable thrombosis‐free survival rate than those with JAK2 mutation.

Conclusion

These findings indicate that the three different molecular markers have a significant impact on the clinical course of true ET, giving rise to different phenotypes of the same disease.
INTERNATIONAL DEAL EXPERIENCE AND CROSS‐BORDER ACQUISITIONS
Authors: Stroup Caleb
Published: June 2016

I show that corporate directors' human capital facilitates international investments. Directors' experience with cross‐border transactions positively influences firms' decisions to conduct their first cross‐border acquisitions. Cross‐border acquirers are more likely to buy firms headquartered in countries with which the directors have prior deal experience. This effect is strongest for target firms headquartered in culturally and institutionally dissimilar countries. Announced cross‐border acquisitions are received more favorably by financial markets and are more likely to be completed successfully when the announcing firm has a director with cross‐border acquisition experience. These effects are not driven by investment bank involvement in the deal process or by other forms of directors' human capital, and they are robust to endogeneity of director hires. (JEL F23, F21, J24, L23)
Cold snaps, heatwaves, and arthropod growth
Authors: ROITBERG BERNARD D. , MANGEL MARC
Published: June 2016

1. Arthropod performance is a non‐linear function of temperature, and thus global climate change may impact arthropods in a variety of non‐obvious ways.

2. In this paper, the well‐known thermal performance curve is reviewed briefly and attention is drawn to the importance of variance in temperature, particularly major weather events such as cold snaps and heatwaves.

3. A model is developed that considers the asymmetry between cold and heat stress and, particularly, the different timescales of recovery from these stressors: near‐instantaneous for cold and lagged effects from heat.

4. Growth rate is evaluated as a function of weather‐event intensity and length. Including the timescale asymmetry exacerbates both heat stress and, to a much lesser degree, cold stress.
The first Team Haemophilia Education meeting, 2015, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Authors: Berntorp Erik , Hart Daniel , Mancuso Maria Elisa , d'Oiron Roseline , Perry David , O'Mahony Brian , Kaczmarek Radoslaw , Crato Miguel , Pasi John , Miners Alec , Carlsson Katarina Steen , Kitchen Steve , Boehlen Françoise , Giangrande Paul , Cebura Elizabete , Uitslager Nanda , Osooli Mehdi , Janeckova Daniela , Haldon Rosie , Rivolta Gianna Franca
Published: June 2016

Haemophilia remains a complex disorder to diagnose and manage, requiring close cooperation between multidisciplinary healthcare professionals. There are still many unmet challenges in haemophilia care. The first Team Haemophilia Education (THE) meeting, held on 7–8 May 2015 in Amsterdam, The Netherlands, aimed to promote the optimal care of haemophilia patients through education of the multidisciplinary treatment team. This was achieved by reviewing the latest developments in haemophilia management, considering how these can be implemented in the clinic to improve patient care and providing a platform for networking and debate for all haemophilia treatment team members. Haemophilia treatment centres from several countries were asked to complete a premeeting online questionnaire to establish the biggest challenges that they face when managing patients. The concerns expressed were used to develop the agenda, which comprised a combination of formal presentations, case studies and informal workshops covering such topics as pharmacokinetics, laboratory assays and tailoring of treatment to individual patients. This report is a summary of the key developments in haemophilia care presented by various investigators and healthcare professionals at THE meeting 2015.
Mass emergence of a specialist sawfly species on unpalatable herbs under severe feeding pressure by sika deer
Authors: Nakahama Naoyuki , Yamasaki Michimasa , Takayanagi Atsushi
Published: June 2016

In recent years, the increase in sika deer populations has had a significant impact on forest ecosystems. Many studies have reported that this increase has led to the dominance of plants unpalatable to the deer; however, few studies have investigated the effects of this dominance on the specialist sawfly species that feed on the unpalatable plants. We observed the mass emergence of Aglaostigma amoorensis (Hymenoptera: Tenthredinidae), a rare specialist sawfly of the false helleborine Veratrum plants unpalatable to sika deer, in areas under severe feeding pressure by sika deer. An exponential increase in the number of emergent A. amoorensis adults was observed to occur with an increase in Veratrum album patch sizes. In addition, the increase in the A. amoorensis density had a negative effect on reproductive success of V. album. Our findings suggest that the relative abundance of specialist sawfly to the host‐plant abundance has changed for successive years after sika deer irruption.
Creating “Bright, Positive” Selves: Discourses of Self and Emotion in a Japanese Public‐Speaking Course
Authors: Dunn Cynthia Dickel
Published: June 2016

This article examines emotion pedagogy and technologies of the self in two Japanese settings: public‐speaking classes and business‐etiquette training for new employees. Data were gathered through participant‐observation and selective audio recording in both settings. The emotion pedagogy found in these classes aims at polishing the public presentation of self as akarui “bright” and sekkyokuteki “active.” The training focuses less on the interpretation of inner feelings or competence in a psychologized emotion register than on inculcating habits of thought and behavior which allow clients to function affectively and effectively within their social contexts. The study demonstrates how the late‐modern reflexive project of self‐fashioning can be embedded in institutional contexts and carried out through metapragmatically explicit emotion pedagogy focusing on the public presentation of self.
Plant invasion is associated with higher plant–soil nutrient concentrations in nutrient‐poor environments
Authors: Sardans Jordi , Bartrons Mireia , Margalef Olga , Gargallo‐Garriga Albert , Janssens Ivan A. , Ciais Phillipe , Obersteiner Michael , Sigurdsson Bjarni D. , Chen Han Y. H. , Peñuelas Josep
Published: June 2016

Plant invasion is an emerging driver of global change worldwide. We aimed to disentangle its impacts on plant–soil nutrient concentrations. We conducted a meta‐analysis of 215 peer‐reviewed articles and 1233 observations. Invasive plant species had globally higher N and P concentrations in photosynthetic tissues but not in foliar litter, in comparison with their native competitors. Invasive plants were also associated with higher soil C and N stocks and N, P, and K availabilities. The differences in N and P concentrations in photosynthetic tissues and in soil total C and N, soil N, P, and K availabilities between invasive and native species decreased when the environment was richer in nutrient resources. The results thus suggested higher nutrient resorption efficiencies in invasive than in native species in nutrient‐poor environments. There were differences in soil total N concentrations but not in total P concentrations, indicating that the differences associated to invasive plants were related with biological processes, not with geochemical processes. The results suggest that invasiveness is not only a driver of changes in ecosystem species composition but that it is also associated with significant changes in plant–soil elemental composition and stoichiometry.
Validity of cluster headache diagnoses in an electronic health record data repository
Authors: Rizzoli Paul , Loder Elizabeth , Joshi Shivang
Published: June 2016

Background

Cluster headache (CH) is uncommon, so electronic searches of large medical record databases provide an important opportunity to identify a sufficient number of patients for research, patient registries, or quality improvement work. However, the accuracy of CH diagnoses recorded in electronic health record (EHR) databases is unknown. The Research Patient Data Registry (RPDR) warehouses information from EHR of two academic medical centers in Boston. We assessed the validity of CH diagnoses in the RPDR as well as the sensitivity of International Classification of Headache Disorders (ICHD) diagnostic criteria in relation to the gold standard of expert clinician diagnosis of CH.

Methods

In 2013, we queried RPDR to identify all patients diagnosed with CH diagnosed by headache specialists from 2002 to 2012. We sought to determine the positive predictive value (PPV) of an EHR diagnosis of CH relative to a headache expert's clinical impression as the gold standard. We also calculated the sensitivity of ICHD‐2 CH criteria compared with the gold standard of expert‐diagnosed CH cases.

Results

RPDR queries identified 170 patients with a diagnosis of CH. Two researchers carried out a detailed chart review searching for information to support or refute this diagnosis. In 58 cases, the diagnosis of CH was determined to be inaccurate due to data entry errors. The PPV of an RPDR diagnosis of CH was 63% (95% CI 54‐71%) and the sensitivity of ICHD‐2 criteria compared with the gold standard of expert diagnosis was 77% (95% CI 69‐82%).

Conclusions

The PPV of EHR diagnoses of CH is modest. Data entry errors are common, and only about three‐fourths of CH cases diagnosed by expert clinicians meet ICHD criteria for CH. Thus, EHR searches for patients with CH frequently will result in false positives. This has implications for activities such as research, quality improvement efforts, or disease registries that rely on EHR searches to identify patients. Further work is needed to develop high quality phenotypic algorithms so that the research potential of EHRs can be realized.
Autonomic Nervous System and the Liver
Authors: Mizuno Kei , Ueno Yoshiyuki
Published: June 2016

The liver is innervated by both the sympathetic and the parasympathetic nerve systems. These nerves are derived from the splanchnic and vagal nerves that surround the portal vein, hepatic artery, and bile duct. The afferent fiber delivers information regarding osmolality, glucose level, and lipid level in the portal vein to the central nervous system (CNS). In contrast, the efferent fiber is crucial in the regulation of metabolism, blood flow, and bile secretion. Furthermore, liver innervation has been associated with hepatic fibrosis, regeneration, and circadian rhythm. Knowledge of these mechanisms can be applied for potential liver disease treatment.
USP6 gene rearrangement in nodular fasciitis and histological mimics
Authors: Shin Christina , Low Irene , Ng Daniel , Oei Paul , Miles Carina , Symmans Pennie
Published: June 2016

Aims

Nodular fasciitis is known to be a benign mimic of sarcoma, both clinically and histologically. Accurate diagnosis, particularly on small biopsies, remains a challenge, as the morphology can be varied and the immunophenotype is essentially non‐specific. Recently, rearrangement of the ubiquitin‐specific protease 6 (USP6) gene has been reported as a recurrent and specific finding in nodular fasciitis. The aim of this this study was to evaluate the diagnostic utility of USP6 fluorescence in‐situ hybridization (FISH) analysis in a subset of spindle‐cell proliferations in which nodular fasciitis enters into the differential diagnosis.

Methods and results

A database search was performed at the Middlemore Hospital Histopathology Department. All in‐house cases diagnosed between 2002 and March 2014 in which nodular fasciitis was considered as a differential diagnosis were retrospectively identified. Twenty cases were retrieved, reviewed and categorized as ‘definite’, ‘possible’ or ‘definitely not’ nodular fasciitis by consensus morphological opinion of three experienced pathologists. FISH analysis for USP6 rearrangement was performed in each case, with a commercially available break‐apart probe. Of seven cases that were morphologically categorized as ‘definite’ nodular fasciitis, six were FISH‐positive and one was FISH‐negative. Of four cases categorized as ‘possible’ nodular fasciitis, one was FISH‐positive and three were FISH‐negative. Nine cases categorized as ‘definitely not’ nodular fasciitis were all FISH‐negative. In the morphologically definitive cases, FISH analysis for USP6 had a sensitivity of 86% and specificity of 100% for a diagnosis of nodular fasciitis. The positive predictive value was 100%, and the negative predictive value 90%.

Conclusions

USP6 FISH is a useful ancillary test in cases where nodular fasciitis is a potential diagnostic consideration.
The Elusive Predictive Ability of Global Inflation
Authors: Medel Carlos A. , Pedersen Michael , Pincheira Pablo M.
Published: June 2016

In this paper we analyse the utility of international measures of inflation in predicting local ones. To that end, we consider a set of 31 OECD economies for which monthly inflation data are available. Three main conclusions emerge. First, there is an important share of countries for which relatively robust evidence of predictability is found for both core and headline inflation. Second, the share of countries for which there is evidence of robust predictability is about the same for core and headline inflation, although gains in root‐mean‐squared prediction error are higher for headline inflation. Third, while the evidence indicates that an international inflation factor may be a useful predictor for several countries, it also indicates that, for many countries as well, predictability is either questionable, undetectable, non‐robust or simply non‐existent.
How can we Measure the Modern Digital Economy?
Authors: Bakhshi Hasan
Published: June 2016

Economic statistics have failed to keep pace with the digital revolution. Nesta's Hasan Bakhshi outlines the problems, and potential solutions
Smashing the Racket
Authors: Paulden Tim
Published: June 2016

Are some professional tennis players really taking “backhanders” to throw matches? Tim Paulden explains how spotting anomalous movements in the betting markets can help shine a light into the murky world of tennis match-fixing
Olympic Medals: Does the Past Predict the Future?
Authors: Bredtmann Julia , Crede Carsten J. , Otten Sebastian
Published: June 2016

How many medals will each country win in Rio this August? Recent history provides some strong indications, but a more sophisticated approach might produce better predictions. Julia Bredtmann, Carsten J. Crede and Sebastian Otten investigate
Multidimensional Physical Self‐Concept in Underserved Urban High School Students: Predicting Physical Activity
Authors: Martin Jeffrey , Garn Alex , Ferry Matt , McCaughtry Nate , Shen Bo , Fahlman Mariane
Published: June 2016

The purpose of this study was to predict physical activity (PA) using multidimensional physical self‐concept theory with underserved urban inner city youth. Eight‐hundred and sixty‐five, mostly African‐American, high school students from a large Midwest inner city participated in the current study. Using structural equation modeling, we found support for multidimensional self‐concept theory. We argue against one‐dimensional models of self‐esteem as two discrete physical self‐concepts accounted for significant variance in PA. Endurance and sport self‐concepts both contributed to predicting unique variance (15%) in PA.
Value‐based recruitment in midwifery: do the values align with what women say is important to them?
Authors: Callwood Alison , Cooke Debbie , Allan Helen
Published: June 2016

Aim

The aim of this study was to discuss theoretical conceptualization and definition of values and value‐based recruitment in the context of women's views about what they would like from their midwife.

Background

Value‐based recruitment received headline status in the UK government's response to pervasive deficiencies in compassionate care identified in the health service. Core values which aim to inform service user's experience are defined in the National Health Service Constitution but clarity about whether these encompass all that women say is important to them is needed.

Design

Discussion paper.

Data sources

A literature search included published papers written in English relating to values, VBR and women's views of a ‘good’ midwife with no date limiters.

Discussion

Definitions of values and value‐based recruitment are examined. Congruence is explored between what women say is important to them and key government and professional regulatory documentation. The importance of a ‘sustainable emotional’ dimension in the midwife–mother relationship is suggested.

Conclusion

Inconsistencies are identified between women's views, government, professional documentation and what women say they want. An omission of any reference to emotions or emotionality in value‐based recruitment policy, professional recruitment and selection guidance documentation is identified.

Implications

A review of key professional documentation, in relation to selection for ‘values’, is proposed. We argue for clarity and revision so that values embedded in value‐based recruitment are consistent with health service users’ views. An enhancement of the ‘values’ in the value‐based recruitment framework is recommended to include the emotionality that women state is a fundamental part of their relationship with their midwife.
Clinical pre‐test of a computerised antithrombotic risk assessment tool for stroke prevention in atrial fibrillation patients: giving consideration to NOACs
Authors: Wang Yishen , Bajorek Beata
Published: June 2016

Rationale, aims and objectives

The decision‐making around antithrombotics in atrial fibrillation requires comprehensive risk versus benefit assessment. In view of the availability of novel oral anticoagulants (NOACs) including dabigatran, rivaroxaban and apixaban, a decision support tool designed to assist the selection of antithrombotics has been modified to consider both warfarin and NOACs. This study aims to pre‐test this modified decision support tool.

Methods

The decision support tool was modified to consider either warfarin or NOACs as first‐line therapy and applied to data pertaining to a cohort of 393 patients in New South Wales.

Results

Overall, 380 (96.7%) patients were eligible for oral anticoagulants. In the scenario of warfarin being recommended as first‐line therapy, the Computerised Antithrombotic Risk Assessment Tool version 2.0 (caratv2.0) recommended warfarin for 360 (91.6%) patients, any NOAC for 5 (1.3%) patients, either rivaroxaban or apixaban for 6 (1.5%) patients and apixaban for 9 (2.2%) patients. In the scenario of NOACs as first‐line therapy, caratv2.0 recommended any NOAC for 279 (70.9%) patients, either rivaroxaban or apixaban for 80 (20.4%) patients, apixaban for 9 (2.3%) patients and warfarin for 12 (3.1%) patients. Key reasons for caratv2.0 to recommend a change from warfarin (patients' current therapy) to NOACs included known warfarin allergy/adverse reaction, a history of intracranial bleeding, and previous gastrointestinal bleeding. Key predictors for caratv2.0 to consider that patients are more suitable for NOACs over warfarin were a diagnosis of other gastrointestinal diseases, more co‐morbidities and high risk of falls.

Conclusions

According to this decision support tool, both warfarin and NOACs are viable treatment options in majority of the patients, but there is a scope for better rationalization of therapy.
A remote monitoring program evaluation: a retrospective study
Authors: Williams Cynthia , Wan Thomas T. H.
Published: June 2016

Objective

Using an integrated model, the Donabedian Quality and Logic Model, we examined a remote monitoring heart failure disease management program.

Method

This quantitative research used post‐test only case matched design. The sample consisted of 210 participants from 23 home health care agencies.

Results

Logistic regression results indicated statistical significance, there was an inverse relationship between caregiver support and the complexity of decision making;X2(3,n = 210) = 29.984,P = 0.012. The DTreg suggested that participants who were advised to go to the ER had a 1.00 probability of doing so, and those who were instructed otherwise had a 0.37 probability of going to the ER. Among participants who experienced a hospital readmission, there was 0.50 probability that patient education or other clinical intervention was implemented prior to the admission.

Conclusion

As home health care agencies consider disease management programs, it is important to gain a comprehensive understanding of the potential of innovative programs and the resources they require. While the agency invested the resources required by the remote monitoring program, the study demonstrated that caregiver support was a critical structural component of the program and may affect change in nurses' decision making to mitigate hospital utilization. We recommend that home health care agencies take greater consideration of the family and social support in implementing a remote monitoring system.
Free Fatty Acid Deformation of Treated Black Glutinous Rice During Storage by Fluidization Drying
Authors: Junka Nittaya , Rattanamechaiskul Chaiwat , Wongs‐Aree Chalermchai
Published: June 2016

This research was contemplated for two purposes: to study a consequent change in the free fatty acid (FFA) content of dried black glutinous rice by fluidization drying and to develop a mathematical equation for predicting FFA formation during storage. It was found that during the same storage period, the rice that passed through the drying process at temperatures of 100, 130 and 150°C accounted for less formation of FFA content than the referenced rice, and the FFA formation was reduced in accordance with the increasing drying temperature. In regard to the proposed equation, predicted FFA formation in rice during the storage period by zero‐order rate reactions yielded the best fit with the values acquired from the experiment.

Practical Applications

The drying process, which uses fluidization with high temperature hot air, is a highly efficient drying method in reducing moisture of the paddy to a suitable level before transporting or storing. In addition, such a method could be applied to the inactivated lipase enzyme to prevent hydrolysis of lipids in rice bran that give rise to FFA, which results in undesirable rancidity for consumers. Data on the change in the FFA content acquired from the experiment would be used to develop a mathematical equation for predicting FFA formation in black glutinous rice during the storage period. The suitable drying condition and proposed mathematical equation would be beneficial as a drying guideline to control rancidity of rice during storage.
Rapid Testing of Food Matrices for Bacillus cereus Enterotoxins
Authors: Tallent Sandra M. , Hait Jennifer M. , Knolhoff Ann M. , Bennett Reginald W. , Hammack Thomas S. , Croley Timothy R.
Published: June 2016

Nine different food products frequently associated with Bacillus cereus outbreaks were chosen as representative matrices to be evaluated with end‐point polymerase chain reaction (PCR), enzyme linked immunosorbent assay, lateral flow device and mass spectrometry for detection of enterotoxins associated with human illness. Testing was performed on food portions inoculated with a bacterial strain and incubated at 30°C for either 5 h or 24 h. A screening end‐point multiplex PCR targeting enterotoxin genes including the emetic toxin and three diarrheal toxins, hemolytic hemolysin BL (Hbl), nonhemoltyic enterotoxin (Nhe), and cytolysin K. Commercially available kits were used to determine the presence/absence of Nhe and Hbl. Finally; a quantitative analysis using mass spectrometry was performed for the detection of the emetic toxin. Definitive results were available after a five hour pre‐enrichment in five food products. The following strategy would allow for more efficient testing of surveillance or environmental samples as well as more rapid response time during a foodborne outbreak.

Practical Applications

The application of a strategy for processing and analyzing food products for Bacillus cereus and the enterotoxins associated with foodborne illness was explored. Employment of such a strategy will decrease time spent processing negative samples allowing more time for analysis of potentially positive food products.
Nonsuicidal self‐injury among lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender populations: an integrative review
Authors: Jackman Kate , Honig Judy , Bockting Walter
Published: June 2016

Aims and objectives

To conduct an integrative review of nonsuicidal self‐injury among lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender populations to better understand the prevalence; to identify the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender subgroups at increased risk for nonsuicidal self‐injury; and to examine the risk factors associated with nonsuicidal self‐injury among lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender populations.

Background

Nonsuicidal self‐injury, defined as intentional injury to the body's surface without intent to die, is a significant mental health concern among adolescents and adults. Mental health disparities in lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender populations, including anxiety, depression and suicidality, have been documented in the scientific literature with little focus on findings about nonsuicidal self‐injury.

Design

Integrative literature review of published quantitative and qualitative empirical research.

Methods

A literature search of 11 on‐line databases was conducted of articles published through April 2015. Keywords were used to identify articles about lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender populations and nonsuicidal self‐injury.

Results

After screening by title, abstract and full text, 26 articles were included in this review. The literature synthesised demonstrates a consistent pattern of increased prevalence of nonsuicidal self‐injury among sexual and gender minority populations compared with heterosexual peers. This body of literature indicates which subgroups of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender populations appear to be at increased risk for nonsuicidal self‐injury and which specific factors contributing to vulnerability to nonsuicidal self‐injury among these populations.

Conclusions

Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender populations are at higher risk for nonsuicidal self‐injury compared with the general population. Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender‐specific and general risk factors appear to contribute to this heightened vulnerability.

Relevance to clinical practice

Clinical nurses should screen for nonsuicidal self‐injury and for sexual and gender minority identity in all of their patients. Comprehensive assessment of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender patients presenting with nonsuicidal self‐injury may lead to identification of risk factors that can be addressed through nursing interventions. Nurse researchers and clinicians should take an active role in developing and implementing evidenced‐based tailored interventions to reduce the higher vulnerability to nonsuicidal self‐injury among lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender populations.
Evaluation of emergency department nursing services and patient satisfaction of services
Authors: Mollaoğlu Mukadder , Çelik Pelin
Published: June 2016

Aims and objectives

To identify nursing services and assess patient satisfaction in patients who present to the emergency department.

Background

Emergency nursing care is a significant determinant of patient satisfaction. Patient satisfaction is often regarded as a reliable indicator of the quality of services provided in the emergency department.

Design

This is a descriptive study.

Methods

Eighty‐four patients who presented to the university emergency department were included in the study. The study data were collected by the Patient Information Form and the Satisfaction Level Form.

Results

Emergency nursing services, including history taking, assessing vital signs, preparing the patient for an emergency intervention, oxygen therapy, drug delivery and blood‐serum infusion were shown to be more commonly provided compared with other services such as counselling the patients and the relatives about their care or delivering educational and psychosocial services. However, 78·6% of the patients were satisfied with their nursing services. The highest satisfaction rates were observed in the following sub‐dimensions of the Satisfaction Level Form: availability of the nurse (82·1%), behaviour of the nurse towards the patient (78·6%) and the frequency of nursing rounds (77·4%).

Conclusions

The most common practices performed by nurses in the emergency department were physical nursing services. Patient satisfaction was mostly associated with the availability of nurses when they were needed. Our results suggest that in addition to the physical care, patients should also receive education and psychosocial care in the emergency department.

Relevance to clinical practice

We believe that this study will contribute to the awareness and understanding of principles and concepts of emergency nursing, extend the limits of nursing knowledge and abilities, and improve and maintain the quality of clinical nursing education and practice to train specialist nurses with high levels of understanding in ethical, intellectual, administrative, investigative and professional issues.
The quality of recovery on discharge from hospital, a comparison between patients undergoing hip and knee replacement – a European study
Authors: Johansson Stark Åsa , Charalambous Andreas , Istomina Natalja , Salanterä Sanna , Sigurdardottir Arun K , Sourtzi Panayota , Valkeapää Kirsi , Zabalegui Adelaida , Bachrach‐Lindström Margareta
Published: June 2016

Aims and objectives

To describe and compare the quality of recovery on discharge from hospital among patients undergoing elective hip or knee replacement. The study will also attempt to identify any predicting factors.

Background

Arthroplasty is commonly used for an increasing population of patients with osteoarthritis, and the recovery process starts directly after surgery. Today's shorter hospital stay may be a challenge for the patients during the early period of recovery. It is therefore important to identify factors associated with quality of recovery at discharge from hospital.

Design

A descriptive, comparative study including 12 hospitals in 5 European countries; Cyprus, Finland, Greece, Iceland and Sweden.

Methods

Consecutively included patients responded on: health‐related quality of life, and emotions before surgery and at hospital discharge; quality of recovery, patient satisfaction and fulfilment of knowledge expectations. Related factors and associations were analysed separately for each kind of arthroplasty. In total, 865 patients were included (hipn = 413, kneen = 452).

Results

In the dimension of pain, patients undergoing hip replacement had significantly better quality of recovery compared to those undergoing knee replacement. Both patient groups experienced negative emotions before surgery that were related to poorer quality of recovery. Fulfilment of knowledge expectations has a limited effect on quality of recovery. Greater satisfaction with care predicted better quality of recovery.

Conclusions

Negative preoperative emotions were related to poorer quality of recovery. For both kinds of arthroplasty, greater satisfaction with care was associated with better quality of recovery.

Relevance to clinical practice

The result emphasises the need to detect patients in need of support in their preparation and recovery process, taking into account the perspective of their emotional state.
Australian Palawa Buildings: Rethinking Interiors and Their Representation
Authors: Power Jacqueline
Published: June 2016

Australian Tasmanian Aboriginal building typologies challenge preconceived notions of what constitutes an interior. This challenge is due to the range of interior–types that are represented by Tasmanian Aboriginal buildings, ranging from windbreaks to full dome buildings. These building typologies require a rethinking of interiors to take place. This article provides an introduction to Tasmanian Aboriginal, or palawa, buildings and their associated interior spaces. The notion of interior is discussed through a framework of interiority. This is presented as a means to engage with the condition of interior–“ness,” which may exist beyond the enclosed or internal space demarcated by a building. This expansion of the definition of interior allows for a broader spectrum of interior expressions to be explored. In addition to the paper's purpose to expand conceptions of interior space, how these conceptions of interior space are perpetuated is also explored. This is revealed through a discussion of how palawa buildings are represented in the historic literature from which knowledge of these buildings is derived. Language is explored as a means through which recorded observations of buildings have acted as critiques, operating referentially to the culture of the observer.
Incorporating Prior Information into A GMM Objective For Mixed Logit Demand Systems
Authors: Romeo Charles J.
Published: June 2016

Random parameters demand system estimates can generate upward sloping demands and imply margins outside of the theoretical bounds for profit maximization. If such violations are numerous enough, they can confound merger simulation exercises. Using Lerner indices for multiproduct firms playing static Bertrand games, we find that up to 35 per cent of implied margins for beer are outside the bounds. We characterize downward sloping demand and the theoretical bounds for profit maximization as prior information and extend the GMM objective function, incorporating inequality moments for product‐level own‐elasticities and brand level or product level Lerner indices. Very few violations remain when an inequality constrained estimator is used.