bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Implementing IFRSs in the UK devolved administrations
Authors: Wall Anthony , Connolly Ciaran
Published: February 2016

Purpose

– Utilising concepts drawn from the governmentality literature, the purpose of this paper is to examine the adoption of International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRSs) in the UK’s devolved administrations of Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales in order to assess why they were adopted and how their introduction has been governed.

Design/methodology/approach

– This research applies a combination of three different approaches, namely: a content analysis; an anonymous online questionnaire; and semi-structured interviews.

Findings

– These include: the transition has had minimal impact upon policy setting and the information produced to aid budgeting and decision making; IFRSs are not entirely appropriate for the public sector; the time, cost and effort involved outweighed the benefits; public sector accounting has become overly-complicated; and the transition is not perceived as part of a wider privatisation programme.

Research limitations/implications

– As this study focuses upon the three UK devolved administrations, the findings may not be applicable in a wider setting.

Practical/implications

– Public sector change must be adequately resourced, carefully planned, with appropriate systems, trained staff and interdisciplinary project teams; accounting change should be based on value for money; and a single, coherent financial regime for the way in which government uses budgets, presents estimates to Parliament and publishes its resource accounts should be implemented.

Originality/value

– This study highlights that accounting change is not just a technical issue and, while it can facilitate a more business-like environment and enhance accountability, all those affected by the changes may not have the requisite skills to fully utilise the (new) information available.
I believe therefore I care
Authors: Felix Reto , Braunsberger Karin
Published: February 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to investigate the impact of intrinsic religious orientation (IRO) on environmental attitudes (EA) and green product purchases (GPP) in Mexico.

Design/methodology/approach

– The study uses structural equation modeling to analyze the survey results of 242 consumers from Northern Mexico.

Findings

– The results of the study show a significant influence of EA on purchasing green products. In addition, the findings suggest that consumers with higher levels of IRO have a higher propensity to buy environmentally-friendly products, but do not show more favorable attitudes toward the environment than less-religious consumers.

Research limitations/implications

– The study relies on a convenience sample from Northern Mexico. Further, the study relies on self-reported measures of green product purchase (GPP) and future research should incorporate real purchases of green products in addition to self-reported measures.

Practical implications

– The findings of the study imply that marketers and policy makers striving to increase the purchasing of green products should try to induce positive attitude changes concerning the protection of the natural environment and the effectiveness of buying green products.

Social implications

– Since religiosity in Mexico influences the purchasing of green products positively, policy makers may reflect on what parts of current Catholic social norms could be leveraged to promote green behaviors among the general Mexican population. Social institutions and change agents, such as the Church and its representatives, may be central to achieving behavioral compliance to environmentally-friendly doctrines.

Originality/value

– Investigating the factors that influence consumers’ environmentally-friendly attitudes and behaviors in emerging economies is imperative for attenuating the negative environmental consequences of economic growth and consumption.
Antecedents of product placement effectiveness across cultures
Authors: Chan Fanny Fong Yee , Petrovici Dan , Lowe Ben
Published: February 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to contribute to the marketing literature by developing and testing a conceptual model to examine the effects of product placement across a country low in assertiveness and performance orientation (the UK) and a country high in assertiveness and performance orientation (Hong Kong (HK)).

Design/methodology/approach

– A content analysis of brand appearances in high grossing films within the UK and HK was conducted followed by a 2×2 between-subjects experiment (n=572).

Findings

– The results indicate participants exposed to prominent placements have a less positive brand attitude and lower purchase intention toward the placed brand. Likewise, respondents exposed to a less well-known placed brand tend to have a less positive brand attitude and lower purchase intention toward the placed brand. There is evidence of interaction effects with cultural dimensions such as assertiveness and performance orientation within the UK and HK.

Practical implications

– The results suggest that product placements can be optimized through tailored campaigns targeted at markets with known cultural characteristics. With advances in digital technology, such practices are becoming more frequent and more feasible.

Originality/value

– This is one of the first studies to explore the effect of culture on perceptions of product placement and the first study to empirically examine the role of prominence and brand awareness, and their interactions with GLOBE values on the effectiveness of product placement.
Cross-cultural management and digital societies
Authors: Jemielniak Dariusz
Published: February 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to see how digital societies’ studies can be inspired by cross-cultural management.

Design/methodology/approach

– Theory critical analysis and review.

Findings

– The paper reveals many similarities and analogies, allowing for useful connections between cross-cultural management research, and studying digital societies.

Originality/value

– By exposing methodological and theoretical links of cross-cultural management field in general, and Magala’s contribution in particular, the following paper helps in better understanding of contemporary research on digital societies, as well as allows for the use of already proven methodologies and approaches in the emerging field of the internet studies.
Professionalization through dispersed institutional entrepreneurship
Authors: Szkudlarek Betina , Romani Laurence
Published: February 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to address the decreasing role of professional associations in governing the work of entrepreneurial, knowledge-intensive professions such as management consulting. It presents the example of an alternative path to traditional professional regulation. This organic professionalization path is introduced through the concept of dispersed institutional entrepreneurship.

Design/methodology/approach

– The paper builds on an in-depth qualitative investigation of professionals in the intercultural industry combining physical and digital ethnography in a multi-modal investigation.

Findings

– The findings illustrate how an ideological divide within the professional community prevents an emergence of the traditional, association-led professionalization path. Instead, the investigated community follows an organic, bottom-up route, with competing individual entrepreneurs developing converging strategies and products. This process is labelled dispersed institutional entrepreneurship.

Research limitations/implications

– The findings indicate that current views on professionalization need to reconsider admission criteria and the professionalization paths that are generally assumed. Further research could focus on investigating organic professionalization paths among other professional groups.

Originality/value

– With an in-depth qualitative investigation of an aspiring professional community this paper contributes to an ongoing discussion on the process of professionalization. The findings show that independent agents’ efforts could be at the centre of the process. They can prevent the professional association from leading the professionalization project while enabling the organic development of synergies across the community.
Collective cultural mind programming: escaping from the cage
Authors: McSweeney Brendan
Published: February 2016

Purpose

– Although vanquished in anthropology, the notion “national culture” as a set of unique, shared, closed, enduring, coherent, determinate subjective values has been repopularized in management by Global Leadership and Organizational Behavior Effectiveness (GLOBE), Hofstede, and Trompenaars (the Trio). The purpose of this paper is to critique the Trio’s representation of culture and its purported consequences.

Design/methodology/approach

– Identifies the essential similarity of the Trio’s work by describing seven propositions they share. Drawing on research from multiple disciplines it critiques a number of these propositions.

Findings

– The Trio’s representation of culture functions as a conceptual cage which confines analysis to misleading and impoverished explanations of organizational and other social action.

Originality/value

– By describing and critiquing some of the metaphorical “bars” of the Trio’s emasculating “cage” it opens further the possibility of richer and relevant cultural research.
The Method for Performance Measurement Matters: Diabetes Care Quality as Measured by Administrative Claims and Institutional Registry
Authors: McCoy Rozalina G. , Tulledge‐Scheitel Sidna M. , Naessens James M. , Glasgow Amy E. , Stroebel Robert J. , Crane Sarah J. , Bunkers Kari S. , Shah Nilay D.
Published: February 2016

Objectives

Performance measurement is used by health care providers, payers, and patients. Historically accomplished using administrative data, registries are used increasingly to track and improve care. We assess how measured diabetes care quality differs when calculated using claims versus registry.

Data Sources/Study Setting

Cross‐sectional analysis of administrative claims and electronic health records (EHRs) of patients in a multispecialty integrated health system in 2012 (n = 368,883).

Study Design

We calculated percent of patients attaining glycohemoglobin <8.0 percent, LDL cholesterol <100 mg/dL, blood pressure <140/90 mmHg, and nonsmoking (D4) in cohorts, identified by Medicare Accountable Care Organization/Minnesota Community Measures (ACO‐MNCM; claims‐based), Healthcare Effectiveness Data and Information Set (HEDIS; claims‐based), and registry (EHR‐based).

Data Collection/Extraction Methods

Claims were linked to EHR to create a dataset of performance‐eligible patients.

Principal Findings

ACO‐MNCM, HEDIS, and registry identified 6,475, 6,989, and 6,425 measurement‐eligible patients. Half were common among the methods; discrepancies were due to attribution, age restriction, and encounter requirements. D4 attainment was lower in ACO‐MNCM (36.09 percent) and HEDIS (37.51 percent) compared to registry (43.74 percent) cohorts.

Conclusions

Registry‐ and claims‐based performance measurement methods identify different patients, resulting in different rates of quality metric attainment with implications for innovative population health management.
A Randomized, Controlled Trial of a Shared Panel Management Program for Small Practices
Authors: Bishop Tara F. , Ryan Andrew M. , Chen Melinda A. , Mendelsohn Jayme , Gottlieb Daniel , Shih Sarah , Desai Priya , Wolff Elizabeth A. , Casalino Lawrence P.
Published: February 2016

Objectives

To determine whether a shared panel management program was effective at improving quality of care for patients with uncontrolled chronic disease.

Data Sources

Data were extracted from electronic health records.

Study Design

Randomized controlled trial of a panel management program initiated by New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene. Patients from 20 practices with an uncontrolled chronic disease and a lapse in care were assigned to the intervention (a phone call requesting that the patient schedule a physician appointment) or usual care. Outcomes were visits to physician practices, body mass index measurement, blood pressure measurement and control, use of antithrombotics, and low‐density lipoprotein measurement and control.

Principal Findings

Panel managers were able to successfully speak with 1,676 patients (14.7 percent of the intervention group). There were no significant differences in outcomes between the intervention and usual care groups. Successfully contacted patients were more likely to have an office visit within 1 year of randomization (45.6 percent [95 percent CI: 22.8, 26.9] vs. 38.1 percent [95 percent CI: 36.8, 39.3]) and more likely to be on antithrombotics (24.4 percent [95 percent CI: 17.7, 31.0]) versus those in the usual care group (17.0 percent [95 percent CI: 13.9, 20.0]) but had no other difference in quality.

Conclusions

A shared, low‐intensity panel management program run by a city health department did not improve quality of care for patients with chronic illnesses and lapses in care.
Projection of prediabetes and diabetes population size in Singapore using a dynamic Markov model
Authors: Wong Lai Yin , Toh Matthias Paul Han Sim , Tham Linus Wai Chung
Published: February 2016

Background

The aim of the present study was to forecast the prevalence and number of adult Singapore residents with prediabetes and diabetes in 2035.

Methods

A dynamic Markov model with nine mutually exclusive states was developed based on the clinical course of diabetes using time‐dependent rates and probabilities. A 1‐year cycle over a 25‐year time horizon from 2010 to 2035 was used in the model. With publicly available data and a chronic disease register, the model forecast annual disease burden by simulating transition of cohorts across different health states using prevalence rates, incidence rates, mortality rates, disease transition, disease detection, and complication rates. An aging index was used in the model in anticipation of population aging to minimize risks of underestimating disease burden.

Results

From 2010 to 2035, the number of Singapore residents with prediabetes and diabetes is projected to more than double, from 434 685 to 903 596 and from 373 104 to 823 802, respectively. The prevalence of prediabetes and diabetes will rise steadily from 15.5 % to 24.9 % and from 13.3 % to 22.7 %, respectively. By 2035, a further estimate of 733 174 and 100 250 patients with prediabetes and uncomplicated diabetes, respectively, will remain undiagnosed. The prevalence of detected and undetected complications is forecast to rise from 60.0 % in 2010 to 70.2 % by 2035.

Conclusion

By 2035, the prevalence of prediabetes and diabetes among Singapore residents aged 21+ years is expected to be one in four and one in five, respectively. There is an impetus to adopt more aggressive interventions to contain disease progression.
Genomewide single nucleotide polymorphism discovery in Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar): validation in wild and farmed American and European populations
Authors: Yáñez J. M. , Naswa S. , López M. E. , Bassini L. , Correa K. , Gilbey J. , Bernatchez L. , Norris A. , Neira R. , Lhorente J. P. , Schnable P. S. , Newman S. , Mileham A. , Deeb N. , Di Genova A. , Maass A.
Published: February 2016

A considerable number of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) are required to elucidate genotype–phenotype associations and determine the molecular basis of important traits. In this work, we carried out de novo SNP discovery accounting for both genome duplication and genetic variation from American and European salmon populations. A total of 9 736 473 nonredundant SNPs were identified across a set of 20 fish by whole‐genome sequencing. After applying six bioinformatic filtering steps, 200 K SNPs were selected to develop an Affymetrix Axiom® myDesign Custom Array. This array was used to genotype 480 fish representing wild and farmed salmon from Europe, North America and Chile. A total of 159 099 (79.6%) SNPs were validated as high quality based on clustering properties. A total of 151 509 validated SNPs showed a unique position in the genome. When comparing these SNPs against 238 572 markers currently available in two other Atlantic salmon arrays, only 4.6% of the SNP overlapped with the panel developed in this study. This novel high‐density SNP panel will be very useful for the dissection of economically and ecologically relevant traits, enhancing breeding programmes through genomic selection as well as supporting genetic studies in both wild and farmed populations of Atlantic salmon using high‐resolution genomewide information.
Clinical outcomes of whole pelvis radiotherapy and stereotactic body radiotherapy boost for intermediate‐ and high‐risk prostate cancer
Authors: Kim Hun Jung , Phak Jeong Hoon , Kim Woo Chul
Published: February 2016

Aim

We report our experience with Cyberknife to deliver hypofractionated stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) boost combined with whole pelvis radiotherapy (WPRT) to patients with intermediate‐ to high‐risk prostate cancer.

Methods

From March 2008 to July 2014, 39 patients with newly diagnosed, intermediate‐ and high‐risk (National Comprehensive Cancer Network definition) localized prostate cancer were treated with WPRT and SBRT boost. The whole pelvis dose was 45 Gy (25 fractions of 1.8 Gy) and the SBRT boost dose was 21 Gy (3 fractions of 7 Gy). No one received androgen deprivation therapy before biochemical relapse. The acute and late toxicities were recorded using the Radiation Therapy Oncology Group scale. Prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) response was monitored.

Results

Thirty‐nine patients with a median 53.6 months (range 14–74 months) follow‐up were analyzed. The median pretreatment PSA was 15.97 ng/mL. The estimated 5‐year biochemical failure (BCF)‐free survival was 94.7%. Two BCFs were observed in only high‐risk group. The median PSA nadir was 0.30 ng/mL at median 36 months and PSA bounce occurred in 15.4% (n = 6) of patients at median 12 months. No grade 3 acute toxicity was noted. A total of 23% of the patients had grade 2 acute genitourinary (GU) toxicities and 21% had grade 2 acute gastrointestinal (GI) toxicities. At 2 months, most complications had returned to baseline. GU and GI toxicities were observed.

Conclusions

WPRT followed by SBRT boost using Cyberknife in intermediate‐ and high‐risk prostate cancer is feasible with minimal toxicity and encouraging BCF‐free survival.
A randomised cross‐over trial comparing the McGrath® Series 5 videolaryngoscope with the Macintosh laryngoscope in patients with cervical spine immobilisation
Authors: Foulds L. T. , McGuire B. E. , Shippey B. J.
Published: February 2016

We compared the performance of the McGrath® Series 5 videolaryngoscope with the Macintosh laryngoscope in 49 patients without suspected cervical spine pathology, whose cervical spine was immobilised using a semi‐rigid collar. The primary outcome was the view obtained at laryngoscopy. Secondary outcomes included time to tracheal intubation, rates of successful intubation and incidence of complications. In all patients, the view was better (92%) or the same (8%) in the McGrath group versus the Macintosh group (p < 0.01). There were no failed intubations in the McGrath group and seven (28%) in the Macintosh group (p < 0.02). There was no statistical difference in time taken to intubate or incidence of complications. We conclude that the McGrath® Series 5 is a superior laryngoscope when cervical spine immobilisation is maintained during tracheal intubation.
An analysis of 1505 consecutive patients receiving continuous interscalene analgesia at home: a multicentre prospective safety study
Authors: Fredrickson M. J. , Leightley P. , Wong A. , Chaddock M. , Abeysekera A. , Frampton C.
Published: February 2016

Continuous interscalene brachial plexus block has been shown to be the most effective analgesic technique following shoulder surgery; however, its use is uncommon due to logistical and safety concerns related to ambulatory administration. We prospectively studied 1505 consecutive patients undergoing shoulder surgery who received continuous interscalene analgesia at home. Catheter removal was by the patient between postoperative days two and five. There were no major complications although 27% of patients reported mild dyspnoea, 13% hoarseness and 7% dysphagia. Twelve percent sought medical advice and 2% reported technical issues with the pump or tubing. Complications and technical issues were associated with patient age; weight; use of ultrasound or concomitant nerve stimulation as the endpoint for final needle tip position; local anaesthetic placement via the catheter or needle; whether a catheter‐related intervention for pain relief was required in the recovery area; and the type of ambulatory pump. We conclude that this study supports the safety of this underused analgesic technique.
Endocrine and molecular investigations in a cohort of 25 adolescent males with prominent/persistent pubertal gynecomastia
Authors: Paris F. , Gaspari L. , Mbou F. , Philibert P. , Audran F. , Morel Y. , Biason‐Lauber A. , Sultan C.
Published: February 2016

Pubertal gynecomastia is a common condition observed in up to 65% of adolescent males. It is usually idiopathic and tends to regress within 1–2 years. In this descriptive cross‐sectional study, we investigated 25 adolescent males with prominent (>B3) and/or persistent (>2 years) pubertal gynecomastia (P/PPG) to determine whether a hormonal/genetic defect might underline this condition. Endocrine investigation revealed the absence of hormonal disturbance for 18 boys (72%). Three patients presented Klinefelter syndrome and three a partial androgen insensitivity syndrome (PAIS) as a result of p.Ala646Asp and p.Ala45Gly mutations of the androgen receptor gene. The last patient showed a 17α‐hydroxylase/17,20‐lyase deficiency as a result of a compound heterozygous mutation of the CYP17A1 gene leading to p.Pro35Thr(P35T) and p.Arg239Stop(R239X) in the P450c17 protein. Enzymatic activity was analyzed: the mutant protein bearing the premature stop codon R239X showed a complete loss of 17α‐hydroxylase and 17,20‐lyase activity. The mutant P35T seemed to retain 15–20% of 17α‐hydroxylase and about 8–10% of 17,20‐lyase activity. This work demonstrates that P/PPG had an endocrine/genetic cause in 28% of our cases. PAIS may be expressed only by isolated gynecomastia as well as by 17α‐hydroxylase/17,20‐lyase deficiency. Isolated P/PPG is not always a ‘physiological’ condition and should thus be investigated through adequate endocrine and genetic investigations, even though larger studies are needed to better determine the real prevalence of genetic defects in such patients.
A systematic review and meta‐analysis of the association between systemic fluoroquinolones and retinal detachment
Authors: Alves Carlos , Penedones Ana , Mendes Diogo , Batel Marques Francisco
Published: February 2016

Purpose

Several pharmacoepidemiologic studies have been carried out evaluating the risk of retinal detachment associated with systemic fluoroquinolones. This meta‐analysis aims to investigate such association, in the light of the best scientific evidence available.

Methods

A literature search was conducted to identify relevant studies evaluating the risk for retinal detachment associated with systemic fluoroquinolones. A meta‐analysis was performed to pool rate ratios (RRs). Meta‐regressions were conducted aiming to evaluate the influence of time interval between fluoroquinolones use and retinal detachment diagnosis or treatment risk estimates.

Results

Ten observational studies from seven publications were included. Overall, fluoroquinolones were not associated with an increased risk for retinal detachment [RR 1.47 (95% CI 0.95–2.27): p = 0.09; I2 = 92.8%]. When the analysis was stratified according to different study designs, the result was statistically significant for retrospective cohort studies [RR 1.87 (95% CI 1.36–2.58); p < 0.001; I2 = 0.0%] and for past users of fluoroquinolones, based on data from case–control studies [RR 1.07 (95% CI 1.01–1.12); p = 0.01; I2 = 0.0%]. According to meta‐regressions, the risk for retinal detachment did not vary due to different time intervals between fluoroquinolones prescription and retinal detachment occurrence. No statistically significant results were identified among studies evaluating only rhegmatogenous retinal detachments, as well as among studies that evaluated patients not requiring a prior ophthalmologist visit to be included.

Conclusions

In light of the current available evidence, systemic fluoroquinolones do not seem to be associated with retinal detachment.
Editorial: fenofibrate as second‐line therapy in high risk PBC – more answers or more questions?
Authors: Jones D. E. J. , E Hansen B.
Published: February 2016

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Corpechot et al. To view this article visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.15049.
Editorial: fenofibrate as second‐line therapy in high risk PBC – more answers or more questions? Authors' reply
Authors: Cheung A. C. , Kowgier M. , Feld J. J.
Published: February 2016

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Corpechot et al and Cheung et al papers. To view these articles visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.15049 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.13465.
Morphology disentangles the systematics of a ubiquitous but elusive meiofaunal group (Kinorhyncha: Pycnophyidae)
Authors: Sánchez Nuria , Yamasaki Hiroshi , Pardos Fernando , Sørensen Martin V. , Martínez Alejandro
Published: February 2016

Kinorhyncha is a group of benthic, microscopic animals distributed worldwide in marine sediments. The phylum is divided into two classes, Cyclorhagida and Allomalorhagida, congruent with the two major clades recovered in recent phylogenetic analyses. Allomalorhagida accommodates more than one‐third of the described species, most of them assigned to the family Pycnophyidae. All previous phylogenetic analyses of the phylum recovered the two genera within Pycnophyidae, Pycnophyes and Kinorhynchus, as paraphyletic and polyphyletic. A major problem in these studies was the lack of molecular data of most pycnophyids, due to the limited and highly localized distribution of most species, often in the Arctic and the deep‐sea. We here overcame the problem by adding a morphological partition with data for 79 Pycnophyidae species, 15 of them also represented by molecular data. Model‐based analyses yielded seven clades, which each was supported by several morphological apomorphies. Accordingly, Kinorhynchus is synonymized with Pycnophyes and six new genera are described for the remaining recovered clades: Leiocanthus gen. nov., Cristaphyes gen. nov., Higginsium gen. nov., Krakenella gen. nov., Setaphyes gen. nov. and Fujuriphyes gen. nov.
Influence of immediate/delayed implant placement and implant platform on the peri‐implant bone formation
Authors: Passoni Bernardo B. , Marques de Castro Daniel S. , de Araújo Maria Angelica R. , de Araújo Carlos d. R. P. , Piatelli Adriano , Benfatti César A. M.
Published: February 2016

Aim

To determinate the influence of the timing and position of the implant placement, as well as the presence and absence of a buccal gap, associated with different implant platforms on bone formation around implants.

Methods and materials

In a first surgical stage, two premolars in one side of the mandibular arch of 07 mongrel dogs were extracted. After a 120‐day healing period, a second‐stage surgery was performed, in which a full flap was raised and two implants were installed. At this same stage, two contralateral premolars were extracted and two immediate implants were placed into the fresh sockets, through the “palatal approach technique” without flap elevation, totaling four implants per animal. The 28 installed implants constituted groups according to the timing (Immediate or delayed) of placement and the type of surface treatment. After 4 months, samples were collected and histomorphometric analysis was performed to determinate buccal surface BIC, lingual surface BIC, total BIC, buccal area, and lingual area of all implants. Kruskal–Wallis and pared Wilcoxon (P < 0.05) tests were performed for statistical analysis.

Results

After 4‐month healing period, the groups of immediate implants presented better BIC scores, mainly on the buccal surface. Data also suggest better bone area formation around the implants of these same groups. Concerning the type of implant platform, better results were found using Morse taper.

Conclusion

The flapless technique with “palatal approach,” Morse taper implants, and immediate implant placement all have favorable influence on the bone formation around the implants.
Enigma of painful diabetic neuropathy: can we use the basic science, research outcomes and real‐world data to help improve patient care and outcomes?
Authors: Coppini D. V.
Published: February 2016

The pathogenesis of painful diabetic neuropathy (PDN) is very complex and its detailed understanding often beyond the remit of the diabetologist or the diabetes multidisciplinary team. Nonetheless it is a very common and difficult to treat complication of diabetes, with significant co‐morbidity and mortality, and some basic understanding may help the health care professional with its day to day management. In this review, we discuss the basic pathological mechanisms of PDN, and its clinical manifestations, and present both scientific and real world data on its management, in an attempt to help improve patient care and outcomes.
Ouro proteins are not essential to tail regression during Xenopus tropicalis metamorphosis
Authors: Nakai Yuya , Nakajima Keisuke , Robert Jacques , Yaoita Yoshio
Published: February 2016

Tail regression is one of the most prominent transformations observed during anuran metamorphosis. A tadpole tail that is twice as long as the tadpole trunk nearly disappears within 3 days in Xenopus tropicalis. Several years ago, it was proposed that this phenomenon is driven by an immunological rejection of larval‐skin‐specific antigens, Ouro proteins. We generated ouro‐knockout tadpoles using the TALEN method to reexamine this immunological rejection model. Both the ouro1‐ and ouro2‐knockout tadpoles expressed a very low level of mRNA transcribed from a targeted ouro gene, an undetectable level of Ouro protein encoded by a target gene and a scarcely detectable level of the other Ouro protein from the untargeted ouro gene in tail skin. Furthermore, congenital athymic frogs were produced by Foxn1 gene modification. Flow cytometry analysis showed that mutant frogs lacked splenic CD8+ T cells, which play a major role in cytotoxic reaction. Furthermore, T‐cell‐dependent skin allograft rejection was dramatically impaired in mutant frogs. None of the knockout tadpoles showed any significant delay in the process of tail shortening during the climax of metamorphosis, which shows that Ouro proteins are not essential to tail regression at least in Xenopus tropicalis and argues against the immunological rejection model.
Verifying the performance characteristics of the TEG5000 thromboelastogram in the clinical laboratory
Authors: Gosselin R.C. , Estacio E. E. , Song J. Y. , Dwyre D. M.
Published: February 2016

Objective

To verify the manufacturer performance claims of the TEG5000 with traditional laboratory methods.

Materials and methods

Samples were concurrently measured using the TEG5000 analyzer and either PT, APTT, fibrinogen, factor activities, platelet count, or platelet function testing using whole blood or platelet‐rich plasma methods.

Results

Within‐run imprecision yielded coefficient of variation (CV) of <5%. There was no correlation of PT or APTT with R time. Only Factor VIII and factor XII activity significantly correlated with R time. There was significant correlation between k and angle with FBG, PLT count, and factor levels. There was weak inverse correlation between angle results and measures of platelet function. All laboratory methods were significantly correlated with MA. There were significant differences between citrated whole blood and fresh citrated plasma for angle and MA, and between fresh and frozen plasma for R time and MA. We demonstrated a high % inhibition noted with normal, drug naïve donors, especially with ADP PLT mapping (50% inhibition), but less so with AA PLT mapping (20% inhibition). For TEG platelet mapping, 19/22 (86.3%) and 17/22 (77.3%) results were concordant with traditional aggregation results.

Conclusion

We demonstrated both the lack of, and strong correlation between laboratory tests and the TEG parameters.
Male non‐gonococcal urethritis: From microbiological etiologies to demographic and clinical features
Authors: Ito Shin , Hanaoka Nozomu , Shimuta Ken , Seike Kensaku , Tsuchiya Tomohiro , Yasuda Mitsuru , Yokoi Shigeaki , Nakano Masahiro , Ohnishi Makoto , Deguchi Takashi
Published: February 2016

Objectives

To detect microorganisms responsible for male acute urethritis and to define the microbiology of non‐gonococcal urethritis.

Methods

The present study comprised 424 men with symptoms and signs compatible with acute urethritis. Their urethral swabs and first‐voided urine underwent detection of the microorganisms. Demographic characteristics and clinical features of Mycoplasma genitalium‐, Ureaplasma urealyticum‐, Haemophilus influenza‐, adenovirus‐ or Herpes simplex virus‐positive monomicrobial non‐gonococcal urethritis, or all‐examined microorganism‐negative urethritis in heterosexual men were compared with urethritis positive only for Chlamydia trachomatis.

Results

Neisseria gonorrhoeae was detected in 127 men (30.0%). In 297 men with non‐gonococcal urethritis, C. trachomatis was detected in 143 (48.1%). In 154 men with non‐chlamydial non‐gonococcal urethritis, M. genitalium (22.7%), M. hominis (5.8%), Ureaplasma parvum (9.1%), U. urealyticum (19.5%), H. influenzae (14.3%), Neisseria meningitidis (3.9%), Trichomonas vaginalis (1.3%), human adenovirus (16.2%), and Herpes simplex virus types 1 (7.1%) and 2 (2.6%) were detected. Although some features of monomicrobial non‐chlamydial non‐gonococcal urethritis or all‐examined microorganism‐negative urethritis were significantly different from those of monomicrobial chlamydial non‐gonococcal urethritis, most features were superimposed.

Conclusions

Predicting causative microorganisms in men with non‐gonococcal urethritis based on demographic and clinical features is difficult. However, the present study provides useful information to better understand the microbiological diversity in non‐gonococcal urethritis, and to manage patients with non‐gonococcal urethritis appropriately.
Loss of miR‐182 affects B‐cell extrafollicular antibody response
Authors: Li Yan‐Feng , Ou Xijun , Xu Shengli , Jin Zi‐Bing , Iwai Naoharu , Lam Kong‐Peng
Published: February 2016

MicroRNAs have been shown to play a role in B‐cell differentiation and activation. Here, we found miR‐182 to be highly induced in activated B cells. However, mice lacking miR‐182 have normal B‐cell and T‐cell development. Interestingly, mutant mice exhibited a defective antibody response at early time‐points in the immunization regimen when challenged with a T‐cell‐dependent antigen. Germinal centres were formed but the generation of extrafollicular plasma cells was defective in the spleens of immunized miR‐182‐deficient mice. Mutant mice were also not able to respond to a T‐cell‐independent type 2 antigen, which typically elicited an extrafollicular B‐cell response. Taken together, the data indicated that miR‐182 plays a critical role in driving extrafollicular B‐cell antibody responses.
Can conservation education learn anything from ‘Big Data’?
Authors: Moss A.
Published: February 2016

‘Big Data’ are immense data sets that can be analysed to reveal patterns and trends in human behaviour and interactions. The growth in the digital universe and the data it makes available provide zoological facilities with information that can be used to develop targeted conservation‐education programmes and for long‐term future planning for biodiversity conservation. Various analytical tools (often free and easy‐to‐use) are available that make it possible to analyse both structured (e.g. customer databases) and unstructured (e.g. Twitter posts) data. Examples of how the extracted data will look and how it can be used to best effect are given in this article. Zoological facilities have a mass of data that that could be utilized to provide a stronger evidence base for internal decision‐making processes. Furthermore, it is time that zoos and aquariums learned to make sense of the huge amounts of unstructured text and image data available in the digital universe, especially as they relate to conservation work. In this way it will be possible to understand and improve the two‐way dialogue zoological facilities have with their visitors and collaborators.
The challenges of evaluating conservation education across cultures
Authors: Esson M. , Moss A.
Published: February 2016

The present and future of biodiversity conservation embraces an interdisciplinary approach. In particular, the acceptance that social factors are a key component to understanding the challenges species and habitats face. Indeed, it is this growing understanding that may lead us to effective solutions to these challenges. Education is the most‐used method employed to try and influence people and their communities. As such, it is widely utilized within conservation programmes around the world. However, the evaluation of educational outcomes is newish to the field of conservation, where so‐called hard science has often dominated. This is, in part, the result of a lack of expertise with such evaluation methods in the conservation field but may also be because differences in culture require more flexibility in an evaluation approach. Here, a flexible approach to evaluation is presented; that is, the use of drawings in the style of Personal Meaning Mapping. In particular, the authors suggest this is one way of transcending the boundaries of culture, language and literacy.
First‐Principles Molecular Dynamics Studies of Oxygen Sublattice Melting in Thoria
Authors: Szpunar Barbara , Szpunar Jerzy A.
Published: February 2016

We apply first‐principles molecular dynamics to investigate the order–disorder transition in the oxygen sublattice, observed experimentally in thoria. The mean‐square displacements were calculated at high temperatures (2700 K–3660 K) and we demonstrate that oxygen atoms become mobile at 3000 K, while they stay confined at 2700 K. The rate of diffusion of oxygen atoms was calculated while for thorium atoms the mean‐square amplitudes of vibrations were evaluated. Thoria is predicted to exhibit a higher increase in thermal expansion with temperatures in the premelting region, similar to urania.
The effect of periodontal therapy on intra‐oral halitosis: a case series
Authors: Erovic Ademovski Seida , Mårtensson Carina , Persson G. Rutger , Renvert Stefan
Published: February 2016

Aim

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of non‐surgical periodontal therapy on intra‐oral halitosis 3 months after therapy.

Material and methods

Sixty‐eight adults with intra‐oral halitosis were included in a case series. Intra‐oral halitosis was evaluated at baseline, and at 3 months after treatment using the organoleptic scores (OLS), Halimeter®, and a gas chromatograph.

Results

Significant reductions for OLS (p < 0.01), total sum of volatile sulphur compounds (T‐VSC) (p < 0.01) and methyl mercaptan (MM) (p < 0.05) values were found after treatment. Hydrogen sulphide (H2S) levels were not significantly reduced. The numbers of probing pockets 4 mm, 5 mm and 6 mm were significantly reduced as a result of therapy (p < 0.001). Bleeding on probing (BOP) and plaque indices were also significantly reduced (p < 0.001). For the 34 individuals with successful periodontal treatment (BOP<20% and a ≥50% reduction of total pocket depth) reductions in OLS (p < 0.01) and T‐VSC scores (p < 0.01) were found. Eleven individuals were considered effectively treated for intra‐oral halitosis presenting with a T‐VSC value <160 ppb, a H2S value <112 ppb and a MM value <26 ppb.

Conclusion

Non‐surgical periodontal therapy resulted in reduction of OLS, MM and T‐VSC values 3 months after therapy. Few individuals were considered as effectively treated for intra‐oral halitosis.
Micro‐sampling Lu–Hf geochronology reveals episodic garnet growth and multiple high‐P metamorphic events
Authors: Cheng H. , Liu X. C. , Vervoort J. D. , Wilford D. , Cao D. D.
Published: February 2016

We present Lu–Hf dates from multiple growth zones within two large garnet porphyroblasts by a micro‐sampling method. A single eclogite sample, taken from the Huwan shear zone in the Hong'an orogen, was investigated with Lu–Hf geochronology by micro‐sampling and traditional bulk separation methods. The sample contains a few large garnet porphyroblasts up to several centimetres in diameter and a second major population of smaller (0.1–2.0 mm) garnet porphyroblasts, comprised of dark cores and pale rims. Elemental compositions and mineral inclusions in the garnet appear consistent with two garnet generations. Lu–Hf dates (c. 400–264 Ma) were determined from twelve micro‐sawed garnet sections from two large garnet porphyroblasts. These Lu–Hf dates overlap with age peaks defined by 115 SIMS zircon U–Pb analyses from the same eclogite sample. Bulk analyses of smaller garnet separates define a minimum date of c. 306 Ma and a maximum date of c. 252 Ma for the dark cores and pale rims respectively. These Lu–Hf dates were interpreted to bracket the period of garnet growth and the broad interval from c. 400 to 264 Ma is best explained by protracted and episodic garnet growth, which may require that these rocks experienced two subduction cycles that were initiated during the Devonian and terminated in the Triassic.
How the stimulus defines the dynamics of vesicle pool recruitment, fusion mode, and vesicle recycling in neuroendocrine cells
Authors: Cárdenas Ana María , Marengo Fernando D.
Published: February 2016

The pattern of stimulation defines important characteristics of the secretory process in neurons and neuroendocrine cells, including the pool of secretory vesicles being recruited, the type and amount of transmitters released, the mode of membrane retrieval, and the mechanisms associated with vesicle replenishment. This review analyzes the mechanisms that regulate these processes in chromaffin cells, as well as in other neuroendocrine and neuronal models. A common factor in these mechanisms is the spatial and temporal distribution of the Ca2+ signal generated during cell stimulation. For instance, neurosecretory cells and neurons have pools of vesicles with different locations with respect to Ca2+ channels, and those pools are therefore differentially recruited following different patterns of stimulation. In this regard, a brief stimulus will induce the exocytosis of a small pool of vesicles that is highly coupled to voltage‐dependent Ca2+ channels, whereas longer or more intense stimulation will provoke a global Ca2+ increase, promoting exocytosis irrespective of vesicle location. The pattern of stimulation, and therefore the characteristics of the Ca2+ signal generated by the stimulus also influence the mode of exocytosis and the type of endocytosis. Indeed, low‐frequency stimulation favors kiss‐and‐run exocytosis and clathrin‐independent fast endocytosis, whereas higher frequencies promote full fusion and clathrin‐dependent endocytosis. This latter type of endocytosis is accelerated at high‐frequency stimulation. Synaptotagmins, calcineurin, dynamin, complexin, and actin remodeling, appear to be involved in the mechanisms that determine the response of these processes to Ca2+.

image

In chromaffin cells, a brief stimulus induces the exocytosis of a small pool of vesicles that is highly coupled to voltage‐dependent Ca2+ channels (A), whereas longer or high‐frequency stimulation provokes a global Ca2+ increase, promoting exocytosis irrespective of vesicle location (B). Furthermore, low‐frequency stimulation favors kiss‐and‐run exocytosis (A), whereas higher frequencies promote full fusion (B). In this review, we analyze the mechanisms by which a given stimulation pattern defines the mode of exocytosis, and recruitment and recycling of neurosecretory vesicles.

This article is part of a mini review series on Chromaffin cells (ISCCB Meeting, 2015).
Micro‐Computed Tomography of Tooth Volume Changes Following Post Removal
Authors: Kim Jiyeon J. , Alapati Satish , Knoernschild Kent L. , Jeong Yong‐Hoon , Kim Do Gyoon , Lee Damian J.
Published: February 2016

Purpose

To measure tooth volume change before and after post removal using micro‐CT and to compare the difference among various combinations of prefabricated post and cement systems.

Materials and Methods

Forty‐eight extracted maxillary anterior teeth and mandibular canines were sectioned 13 mm from the apex. Root canals were properly instrumented. Preparations were filled with gutta percha using lateral condensation. Post space was prepared with a touch and heat device, leaving 5 mm of gutta percha from the apex. Specimens were scanned with micro‐CT to establish objective baseline volume and divided into two groups of post systems: stainless steel (SS) ParaPost and glass‐fiber reinforced composite (FRC) post. Half the posts for each group were cemented with Ketac Cem radiopaque glass‐ionomer cement, and the other half with SpeedCEM dual‐curing resin cement. The posts and residual cement were removed by the same operator, using the ultrasonic vibration technique under an endodontic operating microscope. The remaining tooth root structure was scanned again using micro‐CT with volume reported (mm3). The statistical difference between the combination of posts and cements was measured using the Kruskal‐Wallis ANOVA test (α = 0.001). The independent variables were evaluated separately using post hoc Tukey examination to determine which groups resulted in a statistically significant difference.

Results

There was a statistical difference of tooth root volume change among the groups. Post hoc exam revealed a statistically significant difference in tooth root volume change between group 1 (SS + GI) and the other groups (α = 0.0002).

Conclusion

Compared to other post and cement combinations, serrated parallel‐sided SS posts cemented with GI cement had the most tooth root structure loss upon post removal using the ultrasonic vibration technique.