bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
NSSRF: global network similarity search with subgraph signatures and its applications
Authors: Zhang Jiao , Kwong Sam , Jia Yuheng , Wong Ka-Chun
Published: January 2017

Motivation

The exponential growth of biological network database has increasingly rendered the global network similarity search (NSS) computationally intensive. Given a query network and a network database, it aims to find out the top similar networks in the database against the query network based on a topological similarity measure of interest. With the advent of big network data, the existing search methods may become unsuitable since some of them could render queries unsuccessful by returning empty answers or arbitrary query restrictions. Therefore, the design of NSS algorithm remains challenging under the dilemma between accuracy and efficiency.

Results

We propose a global NSS method based on regression, denotated as NSSRF, which boosts the search speed without any significant sacrifice in practical performance. As motivated from the nature, subgraph signatures are heavily involved. Two phases are proposed in NSSRF: offline model building phase and similarity query phase. In the offline model building phase, the subgraph signatures and cosine similarity scores are used for efficient random forest regression (RFR) model training. In the similarity query phase, the trained regression model is queried to return similar networks. We have extensively validated NSSRF on biological pathways and molecular structures; NSSRF demonstrates competitive performance over the state-of-the-arts. Remarkably, NSSRF works especially well for large networks, which indicates that the proposed approach can be promising in the era of big data. Case studies have proven the efficiencies and uniqueness of NSSRF which could be missed by the existing state-of-the-arts.

Availability and Implementation

The source code of two versions of NSSRF are freely available for downloading at https://github.com/zhangjiaobxy/nssrfBinary and https://github.com/zhangjiaobxy/nssrfPackage.

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Automated cell type discovery and classification through knowledge transfer
Authors: Lee Hao-Chih , Kosoy Roman , Becker Christine E , Dudley Joel T , Kidd Brian A
Published: January 2017

Motivation

Recent advances in mass cytometry allow simultaneous measurements of up to 50 markers at single-cell resolution. However, the high dimensionality of mass cytometry data introduces computational challenges for automated data analysis and hinders translation of new biological understanding into clinical applications. Previous studies have applied machine learning to facilitate processing of mass cytometry data. However, manual inspection is still inevitable and becoming the barrier to reliable large-scale analysis.

Results

We present a new algorithm called Automated Cell-type Discovery and Classification (ACDC) that fully automates the classification of canonical cell populations and highlights novel cell types in mass cytometry data. Evaluations on real-world data show ACDC provides accurate and reliable estimations compared to manual gating results. Additionally, ACDC automatically classifies previously ambiguous cell types to facilitate discovery. Our findings suggest that ACDC substantially improves both reliability and interpretability of results obtained from high-dimensional mass cytometry profiling data.

Availability and Implementation

A Python package (Python 3) and analysis scripts for reproducing the results are availability on https://bitbucket.org/dudleylab/acdc.

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Salsamenta pictavensium: Gastronomy and Medicine in Twelfth-Century England
Authors: Gasper Giles E.M. , Wallis Faith
Published: January 2017

This article presents a collection of culinary recipes from a manuscript produced in England from the later twelfth century. The suite of ten recipes for ‘Poitou sauces’ or ‘Poitou relishes’ (salsamenta pictavensium—literally ‘of the Poitevins’) to garnish various kinds of meat, fish and fowl are introduced and analysed, with an appended edition and translation. These are, to date, the oldest extant medieval recipes for such sauces, and in their role as gastronomic enhancements, the earliest surviving medieval culinary recipes. The historical and cultural contexts for the recipes at Durham Cathedral Priory are explored: the nature of the community for whom the recipes were written, its choices of library acquisition, its relationships with the bishopric, and attitudes within the community towards food and medicine in a monastic setting. The Poitevin designation of the sauces is also considered. Above all the article investigates the question of the relationship between gastronomy and medicine in the twelfth century, and seeks to demonstrate that any distinction between medical and culinary recipes suggests a false dichotomy, particularly in the case of salsamenta. The authors argue against the position that medieval cuisine is, in its origins and essence, applied dietetics, and suggest that in the twelfth century salsamenta belonged in the first instance to gastronomy, but were in the process of being appropriated as medicines by the authors of the new literature of therapeutics.
More than a fair share of good luck
Authors: Jobling Malcolm
Published: January 2017

This article deals with reflections on a career as a fish biologist that has spanned 40 + years. I provide insights into lessons I have learned over the years, describe some research successes and failures, and end by drawing the conclusion that variety in teaching and research is the spice of academic life. The lessons I have learned might be a guide for those at an early stage of their scientific career:

You should try to recognize where your talents lie and what your weaknesses are: play to your strengths, but do not try to hide your weaknesses.

Collaboration with perceptive colleagues and receptive associates is the foundation upon which an academic career is built.

Research should be designed to address a problem, not apply a technique; use the technology, and do not submit to the temptation of letting it use you.

The most rewarding pieces of research are often those that produce unexpected results; you learn more from having your preconceived ideas challenged than by having them confirmed.

It is important to know who your readers are, and to select the most appropriate channel for publication of your work. It is not necessary to publish in high impact factor journals to get your work read and cited.

You are likely to shift your focus many times during your career; you must continue to grow to remain fresh and enthusiastic.

Your students are your scientific legacy; nurture them well because there is nothing more satisfying than to see them succeed.

I offer a final piece of advice: Should teaching and research cease to be fascinating and fun, move on; do not risk becoming a square peg in a round hole.
Decrease in unnecessary vitamin D testing using clinical decision support tools: making it harder to do the wrong thing
Authors: Felcher Andrew H , Gold Rachel , Mosen David M , Stoneburner Ashley B
Published: January 2017

Objective:To evaluate the impact of clinical decision support (CDS) tools on rates of vitamin D testing. Screening for vitamin D deficiency has increased in recent years, spurred by studies suggesting vitamin D’s clinical benefits. Such screening, however, is often unsupported by evidence and can incur unnecessary costs.

Materials and Methods:We evaluated how rates of vitamin D screening changed after we implemented 3 CDS tools in the electronic health record (EHR) of a large health plan: (1) a new vitamin D screening guideline, (2) an alert that requires clinician acknowledgement of current guidelines to continue ordering the test (a “hard stop”), and (3) a modification of laboratory ordering preference lists that eliminates shortcuts. We assessed rates of overall vitamin D screening and appropriate vitamin D screening 6 months pre- and post-intervention.

Results:Vitamin D screening rates decreased from 74.0 tests to 24.2 tests per 1000 members (P < .0001). The proportion of appropriate vitamin D screening tests increased from 56.2% to 69.7% (P < .0001), and the proportion of inappropriate screening tests decreased from 43.8% pre-implementation to 30.3% post-implementation (P < .0001).

Discussion:To our knowledge, this is the first demonstration of how CDS can reduce rates of inappropriate vitamin D screening. We used 3 straightforward, inexpensive, and replicable CDS approaches. We know of no previous research on the impact of removing options from a preference list.

Conclusion:Similar approaches could be used to reduce unnecessary care and decrease costs without reducing quality of care.
Prevalence and significance of plasma Epstein-Barr Virus DNA level in nasopharyngeal carcinoma
Authors: Prayongrat Anussara , Chakkabat Chakkapong , Kannarunimit Danita , Hansasuta Pokrath , Lertbutsayanukul Chawalit
Published: January 2017

Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) DNA has been recognized as a promising tumor marker for nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). This study aims to demonstrate the prevalence of plasma EBV DNA and its temporal correlation with treatment outcomes in the modern era. A total of 204 patients with Stage I–IVB NPC treated with intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) were enrolled. Quantitative plasma EBV DNA measurement was performed before treatment (pre-IMRT), on the fifth week of radiation (mid-IMRT), at 3 months after radiation (post-IMRT), then every 6 months until disease relapse. Progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were analyzed using the Kaplan–Meier method. Plasma EBV DNA was detected in 110 patients (53.9%), with a median pre-IMRT EBV DNA level of 8005 copies/ml. Significant correlation was noted between pre-IMRT EBV DNA level and disease stage, but not between pre-IMRT EBV DNA level and World Health Organization classification. With a median follow-up time of 35.1 months, the 3-year PFS and OS rates were higher in the group with undetectable pre-IMRT EBV DNA level compared with in the group in which it was detectable. When classified according to disease stage and pre-IMRT EBV DNA, patients with early disease and detectable pre-IMRT EBV DNA experienced poorer survival than those with locally advanced disease and undetectable pre-IMRT EBV DNA. According to the dynamic changes in EBV DNA level between pre-IMRT and mid/post IMRT, survival was significantly higher in patients who achieved an undetectable level following treatment. On multivariate analysis, post-IMRT EBV DNA level was the strongest predictor of all treatment outcomes (P < 0.001). Our study demonstrated the clinical significance of the plasma EBV DNA level at specific time points, as well as of the dynamic changes in the EBV DNA level. Disappearance of plasma EBV DNA after treatment was associated with better survival.
Fetal and neonatal physiology
Authors: Girard Thierry , Erb Thomas
Published: January 2017

Knowledge of fetal and neonatal physiology is a prerequisite for physicians involved in the care for mother and child during pregnancy and fetal surgery as well as for the care of a newborn. This chapter focuses on essential aspects of fetal growth, and respiratory and cardiovascular physiology including the complex transition from intra- to extrauterine life. In essence, this transition involves every organ system and knowledge of the most important aspects is a prerequisite to understanding pathophysiology of this transition. Key points regarding the nervous system, nociception, metabolism, that is, fluid homeostasis, kidneys, and liver, and the integumentary system are also addressed.
Obstetric management of labour, delivery, and vaginal birth after caesarean delivery
Authors: Devlieger Roland , Smet Maria-Elisabeth
Published: January 2017

This chapter describes the events surrounding normal and abnormal labour and delivery with particular relevance to the anaesthetist. The first two sections explain the course of a normal labour, delivery, and third stage. Subsequently attention is paid to obstructed labour, delivery, and prolonged third stage. Since induction of labour has become common practice in many pathological conditions, several methods of induction and their complications are then discussed. Next, some basic knowledge about intrapartum fetal monitoring is presented, followed by some specific and potentially complicated situations such as shoulder dystocia, operative vaginal delivery, caesarean delivery, breech delivery, twin birth, and vaginal birth after previous caesarean delivery.
Labour analgesia: choice of local anaesthetics
Authors: Capogna Giorgio
Published: January 2017

In this chapter, the rationale for the choice of commonly used local anaesthetics—racemic bupivacaine, ropivacaine, and levobupivacaine—is reviewed, particularly with respect to their potency and differential block. Epidural and spinal dosing for labour analgesia and the role of ‘up–down’ studies to determine the minimum local anaesthetic concentration (MLAC) for labour analgesia is explained. Applying the MLAC model has enabled clinical comparisons at equipotent concentrations and doses. It has also quantified what contribution opioids have on the overall effectiveness of the analgesic mixture, provided a means of optimizing combinations of local anaesthetic–opioid solutions, examined the effect of inter-individual and obstetric variables on local anaesthetic potency, and provided a pharmacological-based rationale for analgesia solutions used for labour analgesia.
Problems in early pregnancy
Authors: Colin Duncan W.
Published: January 2017

One in three women will present with problems, usually bleeding and/or pain, in early pregnancy prior to their planned maternity booking appointment at the end of the first trimester. The mainstay of investigation is pelvic ultrasonography. However, often the diagnosis is not clear and further ultrasound scans or repeated measurements of serum human chorionic gonadotropin concentrations are required. Most women with bleeding in early pregnancy will have an ongoing pregnancy and can be reassured. However, around 15% of pregnancies will miscarry in the first trimester. Management of miscarriage is often conservative but there are both surgical and medical, using misoprostol, management options. Importantly, approximately 1 in 80 pregnancies are ectopic pregnancies. These can be difficult to diagnose and are associated with increased maternal morbidity and mortality. Management is usually by laparoscopic salpingectomy or systemic methotrexate administration. As ectopic pregnancy can present to disparate medical practitioners it is important to have an awareness and suspicion of this condition as well as considering the possibility of pregnancy in all women of reproductive age.
Prematurity, multiple gestation, and abnormal presentation
Authors: Keag Oonagh , Cooper E. Sarah
Published: January 2017

Preterm labour is a common cause of neonatal morbidity and mortality. This chapter describes the definition, aetiology, diagnosis, and management of preterm labour and delivery with a focus on tocolytic therapy, the use of antenatal corticosteroids, and of magnesium sulphate. Anaesthesia for preterm delivery is discussed. The section on multiple pregnancy details the recommended antenatal careplan for dichorionic and monochorionic twin pregnancies, the fetal and maternal risks and potential complications, and the management of labour and delivery of twins, as well as the anaesthetist’s role in managing these high-risk pregnancies. There are a number of abnormal presentations managed by obstetricians, including abnormal cephalic presentations such as occiputo-posterior positions, breech, transverse, and compound presentations. This chapter focuses specifically on breech presentation, comparing the evidence for vaginal breech delivery versus planned caesarean delivery. It also discusses external cephalic version and vaginal breech delivery itself.
Kidney disease
Authors: Wiles Kate , Bramham Kate , Nelson-Piercy Catherine
Published: January 2017

This chapter describes the physiological adaptations to pregnancy in women with and without renal disease, reports pregnancy outcomes in women with both acute kidney injury and chronic kidney disease, and discusses a management strategy for antenatal and peripartum care. Acute kidney injury (AKI) is difficult to define in pregnancy because of the physiological increase in glomerular filtration. A normal creatinine can mask renal injury in pregnancy. This chapter considers important causes of AKI in pregnancy including pre-eclampsia, HELLP syndrome, thrombotic microangiopathy, acute fatty liver of pregnancy, systemic lupus erythematosus, urinary tract infection, and obstruction. The trend in the developed world for delaying pregnancy and the increasing prevalence of obesity mean that greater numbers of pregnancies will be complicated by chronic kidney disease. Maternal and fetal complications increase with worsening prepregnancy renal function including the development of pre-eclampsia, fetal growth restriction, premature delivery, and fetal loss. Prepregnancy counselling and the intrapartum management for women with lupus nephritis, immunoglobulin A nephropathy, polycystic kidney disease, and diabetic nephropathy are discussed. Renal replacement therapies in pregnancy including both dialysis and renal transplantation are considered, and practical guidance on renal biopsy, anaesthesia, and the pharmacology of renal disease in pregnancy is offered.
Key principle, concepts, and techniques of social marketing
Authors: French Jeff
Published: January 2017

This chapter sets out a hierarchical and differentiated model of social marketing principles, concepts, and techniques, based on thoughts put forward by French and Russell-Bennett (2015). In this chapter descriptive criteria of social marketing are reviewed and placed in a hierarchy of importance in order to assist practitioners, commissioners, and academics with describing and identifying social marketing practice and distinguishing it from other forms of social programme design and implementation. The description of the key principles, concepts, and techniques of social marketing set out in this chapter represents a way to conceptualize and recognize the different elements that constitute social marketing theory and practice.
Commissioning social marketing
Authors: French Jeff
Published: January 2017

This chapter sets out some practical considerations and tips for organizations considering investing in external suppliers to provide either elements of a social marketing initiative or a whole initiative. Commissioning can be a highly cost-effective way of drawing on the necessary specialist skills that may not be present within organizations. It is a straightforward process, but it demands a systematic approach and the proactive management of prospective and successful suppliers. There are many issues that need to be considered when deciding to bring in external agencies or individuals to help develop, deliver, or evaluate your social marketing programme. This chapter provides some helpful checklists and questions to consider, as well as some guidance on managing suppliers of services.
Building social programme coalitions
Authors: French Jeff
Published: January 2017

It is rare that one group, profession, or sector has all the answers, levers for change, or resources to promote health in a systemic way. This chapter sets out the rationale and processes for developing effective partnerships and delivery coalitions, which are often an important component of many social marketing initiatives and programmes. It sets out a number of common principles for establishing and maintaining delivery coalitions across different sectors. The chapter also reviews the differences between stakeholders and partners, explores how to find the right partners, and outlines how best to manage these groups of supporters so that all partners achieve the desired outcomes of the coalition.
Emergency anaesthesia in the elderly
Authors: Dodds Chris , Kumar Chandra M. , Servin Frédérique
Published: January 2017

Emergency surgery in the elderly is needed even if elective surgery would not be considered. Often, it is due to trauma or to intra-abdominal, vascular, or neurosurgical emergencies. The time from onset of the cause of the emergency to operative treatment is directly related to complications and death. Delay to accurate diagnosis is common and may be masked by delirium. Sepsis, pain hypotension, and metabolic disorders may all trigger delirium. Resuscitation and optimization should be concurrent with operative management. Important factors considered include the possible cause of a fall (cardiac/neurologic), likelihood of severe hypovolaemia, electrolyte disorders, and ischaemic vascular disease (occlusive and embolic). Emergency laparotomy is reviewed with the possible reasons behind the appalling outcome data, such as delayed diagnosis and poor nutritional state.
Postoperative care and analgesia
Authors: Dodds Chris , Kumar Chandra M. , Servin Frédérique
Published: January 2017

There are many reasons for delayed recovery, but, usually, it is due to residual effects of anaesthetic agents/premedication. There are guidelines for recognizing and managing these cases. Emergence delirium may be dangerous, and it should be recognized and treated as an emergency. Elderly patients may have impaired hearing and vision. Spectacles and hearing aids should be given back to them as soon as possible in the recovery area to limit disorientation. Pain and its intensity may be difficult to recognize and quantify in the elderly. Increased inter-individual variability in the elderly means that titration to effect rather than a fixed dosage is essential, and when the mental status of the patient allows it, patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) is quite appropriate.
Intensive care and the elderly
Authors: Dodds Chris , Kumar Chandra M. , Servin Frédérique
Published: January 2017

Age is not an independent predictor for poor outcome from intensive care. This chapter reviews admission criteria for the elderly and the assessment of likely outcome including the differences between traumatic or surgical admissions against medical ones. Pre-existing comorbidities all limit functional recovery, and only about 60% of elderly patients get back to their preadmission level of activity, although this may not detract from their perceived quality of life. Potential bias in the use of quality-of-life measures by clinical staff is discussed. Information on the identification of futility and the move to either palliation or withdrawal of support is discussed. Complications are common in the intensive-care patient population, and the reasons that they may be irreversible in the elderly are reviewed. The limitation of care, the use of advanced directives, and the assessment of legal capacity are reviewed.
Cognitive dysfunction and sleep disorders
Authors: Dodds Chris , Kumar Chandra M. , Servin Frédérique
Published: January 2017

Cognitive dysfunction is largely a problem in the elderly, but it can occur at any age. The two major presentations, delirium and postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD), are compared. Risks for delirium are explored; key points from the patient’s history and possible ways to ameliorate the onset are then reviewed. The presentation of POCD is described, and the lack of our understanding of its causes is highlighted. Known triggers such as centrally active anticholinergic drugs or pain are identified. Current thinking in the inflammatory responses within microglia and astrocytes is summarized. Sleep in the elderly is contrasted with that in younger persons, and the main stages of sleep, SWS and REM, described. The impact and importance of the effects that surgery/anaesthesia has on sleep stages is reviewed. Obstructive sleep apnoea is described, including its effect on the safety of anaesthesia and recovery. Periodic limb movement disorders and early Parkinson disease are described.
Examination of the stroke patient
Authors: Markus Hugh , Pereira Anthony , Cloud Geoffrey
Published: January 2017

Clinical examination identifies the neuroanatomical deficit. This chapter provides a reference as to how to perform the neurological examination in a suspected stroke patient. It also covers assessment of conscious level and cognition and the key features of the systemic examination.
Ischaemic stroke: common causes
Authors: Markus Hugh , Pereira Anthony , Cloud Geoffrey
Published: January 2017

This chapter on common causes of ischaemic stroke reviews the major pathologies underlying ischaemic stroke, namely large-artery disease, cardioembolism, and small-vessel disease. Large-vessel extra- and intracranial atherosclerotic cerebrovascular disease is covered. Cardioembolic aetiologies of stroke including atrial fibrillation and valvular heart disease are discussed. Small-vessel disease causing lacunar stroke and possible heterogonous pathologies underlying this subtype are covered. Dolichoectasia of arteries as a potential cause of stroke and the newer concept of embolic stroke of undetermined source are also discussed.
Obesity
Authors: Medforth Janet , Ball Linda , Walker Angela , Battersby Sue , Stables Sarah
Published: January 2017

A definition of obesity and a discussion of the UK rates open this chapter. Risks to the mother and fetus are listed and the latest recommendations for care pre-pregnancy, during pregnancy, during labour, and during the postnatal period are given.
Normal labour: second stage
Authors: Medforth Janet , Ball Linda , Walker Angela , Battersby Sue , Stables Sarah
Published: January 2017

This chapter covers the second stage of labour, from onset through to latent and active phases. It describes the physiology and diagnosis of the second stage of labour for low-risk women. It considers the mechanism of normal labour which underpins the principles of care and conduct of a normal vaginal birth. The care of the perineum in line with the current evidence base is also described. Categorization of perineal trauma is given and the performance of an episiotomy described. The incidence and management of female genital mutilation are discussed.
High-risk labour
Authors: Medforth Janet , Ball Linda , Walker Angela , Battersby Sue , Stables Sarah
Published: January 2017

The principles of high-risk labour and the midwifery management are discussed in this chapter. The care of women encountering difficult births is a theme throughout. Issues, such as induction of labour, vaginal birth after a Caesarean section, and instrumental birth, are discussed step by step. New and updated evidence has been used to inform the reader’s practice.
Contraception
Authors: Medforth Janet , Ball Linda , Walker Angela , Battersby Sue , Stables Sarah
Published: January 2017

General guidance on the role of the midwife in giving advice on contraception introduces this chapter. The chapter then covers the latest advice on contraceptive methods, including hormonal and non-hormonal methods, barrier methods, and injectable and implanted contraceptives. There is also a short section on lactational amenorrhoea.
Breastfeeding
Authors: Medforth Janet , Ball Linda , Walker Angela , Battersby Sue , Stables Sarah
Published: January 2017

This chapter considers all aspects of breastfeeding. The latest Baby Friendly Initiative standards are detailed, along with the advantages of, and contraindications to, breastfeeding. The constituents of breast milk and their role in infant nutrition are identified. Recently recognized changes in the structure of the lactating breasts are presented. There are detailed sections on the management and support of breastfeeding. Practices shown to be detrimental to successful breastfeeding are highlighted. Expression of breast milk and breastfeeding and returning to work are fully explained, as well as discontinuation of breastfeeding. Common problems encountered whilst breastfeeding are considered, including sore/cracked nipples, engorgement, blocked ducts, mastitis, breast refusal, insufficient milk supply, and Candida infection (thrush). Breastfeeding in special situations is also explored. The importance of correct nutrition and breastfeeding is reviewed.
Artificial feeding
Authors: Medforth Janet , Ball Linda , Walker Angela , Battersby Sue , Stables Sarah
Published: January 2017

Although breastfeeding is the gold standard not all mothers are able or willing to breastfeed their infants. This chapter endeavours to take a balanced view of the issues associated with artificially feeding an infant. It details the International Code of Marketing of Breast Milk Substitutes with which health professionals should comply. It considers suppression of lactation and the nutritional requirements of formula-fed babies. It provides guidelines for the selecting of an appropriate substitute and identifies the types of cow’s milk infant formulas available and their alternatives, including the use of goat milk. The management of formula feeding is detailed, with special attention given to the making up of feeds. Problems and disadvantages associated with formula feeding are explored, as well as the health risks associated with formula feeding.
Public Health Informatics
Authors: Sahay Sundeep , Sundararaman T , Braa Jørn
Published: January 2017

Rapid and unpredictable developments in health policies, technologies, disease profiles, institutional environments, and their inter-connections have significant implications on how we design, develop, implement, and use health information systems (HIS) in low and middle-income countries (LMICs). Our current systems have heightened expectations but have proven largely incapable of meeting these new challenges. Nor have they been able to effectively leverage upon the new opportunities that are emerging, such as through the cloud, big data, the proliferation of mobile devices and the Internet of Things, and also the increasing array of new open source software solutions being made available through global development communities. What is required to try and address these challenges and opportunities? This book proposes the ‘Expanded PHI’ (public health informatics) perspective as a way forward, and through the various chapters first seeks to define it, and then apply it to analyse the following key problematics facing public health informatics in the domains of research, practice, and policy: use of information; integration of systems; leveraging cloud computing and big data; design and building of institutions that facilitate; managing complexity; evolving governance mechanisms and standards; responding to the new challenges thrown up by universal health coverage and Sustainable Development Goals; and building synergies between health systems strengthening and health information strengthening efforts. In defining the scope of Expanded PHI, the field of public health informatics is first situated within an informatics context, and then within public health and finally within the context of changing global health policies. Drawing from these contextualizations, the design principles for Expanded PHI are elucidated, based primarily on a social systems perspective, where the health of populations is kept as the central purpose and a participatory and incremental nature of change as the primary strategy.
The ‘Information-Use Problematic’ in Health Information Systems
Authors: Sahay Sundeep , Sundararaman T , Braa Jørn
Published: January 2017

It is well understood that use of information is essential not only for justifying the investments made in building information systems, but they are also essential for improving the quality and equity of healthcare delivery. The paradox is that there is a data overload that impedes relevant information use, and to solve this more IT systems are deployed, thus creating more data, which further confounds the information use problem. One reason for this is that health information systems in LMICs are typically not conceived as built for users at different levels with varying needs, but primarily to satisfy the monitoring and control needs of central apex authorities and funding agencies. While in recent years, tremendous improvements have been made in LMICs, there still tends to exist a weak understanding and use of indicators, poor data quality that is all too readily and mistakenly attributed to non-truthful reporting when there are many other remediable factors at work. The Expanded PHI approach seeks to address these issues. It posits that meanings can be best made only through ‘conversations over data’, and user friendly systems requires ‘communities of practice’ to build and sustain.
The Challenge of Integration
Authors: Sahay Sundeep , Sundararaman T , Braa Jørn
Published: January 2017

This chapter explores how the Expanded PHI approach can inform the diagnosis of the fragmentation problem, and solutions to address it. Fragmentation is undoubtedly a ‘wicked’ problem, since trying to address it in one place may throw up new and unexpected issues in others. Integration is positioned as a modern solution, such as the architecture of open health information exchange to address the fragmentation problem, and significant efforts and money are being put in by ministries, donors, software vendors, and others in this area. Various global declarations have emphasized integration as a primary effort in health sector reforms in LMICs. Approaches have also often emphasized ‘big bang solutions’ that have typically not given adequate time for the solutions to take root. The Expanded PHI approach argues for incremental and bottom-up approaches informed by broader top-down visions.
Adapting Meaning-Centered Psychotherapy in the Palliative Care Setting
Authors: Masterson Melissa , Rosenfeld Barry , Pessin Hayley , Fenn Natalie
Published: January 2017

Meaning-centered psychotherapy (MCP) has demonstrated effectiveness in aiding patients with advanced cancer search for and attain a sense of meaning in life despite serious illness. Work with MCP and decades of research focused on the mental health needs of palliative care patients led to the development of an abbreviated version of MCP specifically tailored to palliative care patients. This chapter describes the development of a three-session adaptation of MCP called meaning-centered psychotherapy—palliative care (MCP-PC), along with an overview of the session content. Session transcripts and case vignettes are used to highlight results from the initial pilot study. These preliminary results provide support for the feasibility, acceptability, and effectiveness of this intervention in helping terminally ill patients in hospice or palliative care settings better cope with the challenges inherent in confronting death and dying.
Adaptation of Meaning-Centered Group Psychotherapy in the Israeli Context
Authors: Goldzweig Gil , Hasson-Ohayon Ilanit , Elinger Gali , Laronne Anat , Wertheim Reut , Pizem Noam
Published: January 2017

The implementation and dissemination of psychosocial interventions across different countries is a major challenge to clinicians worldwide. Cultural and societal considerations are required during these adaptations. These considerations include logistic, context-based, and thematic aspects. This chapter describes the process of adapting meaning-centered group psychotherapy (MCGP) to the Israeli context. The chapter discusses the general considerations in intervention adaptation and describes the application of these considerations to the Israeli culture. The description is accompanied by a discussion of the special characteristics of Israeli society that require attention while implementing the MCGP. The chapter also presents preliminary results of two MCGP pilot interventions conducted in Israel. In addition, the chapter presents a clinical example based on excerpts from two MCGP sessions.
Case 5
Authors: Scoutt Leslie M. , Hamper Ulrike M. , Angtuaco Teresita L.
Published: January 2017

This is a case from the Gynecology section of Ultrasound. The specific content of each case and its diagnosis are necessarily hidden from this abstract. Each case contains case history, followed immediately by the diagnosis, which is supported with findings, differential diagnosis, teaching points, management, and further reading suggestions.
Case 8
Authors: Scoutt Leslie M. , Hamper Ulrike M. , Angtuaco Teresita L.
Published: January 2017

This is a case from the Gynecology section of Ultrasound. The specific content of each case and its diagnosis are necessarily hidden from this abstract. Each case contains case history, followed immediately by the diagnosis, which is supported with findings, differential diagnosis, teaching points, management, and further reading suggestions.
Case 14
Authors: Scoutt Leslie M. , Hamper Ulrike M. , Angtuaco Teresita L.
Published: January 2017

This is a case from the Gynecology section of Ultrasound. The specific content of each case and its diagnosis are necessarily hidden from this abstract. Each case contains case history, followed immediately by the diagnosis, which is supported with findings, differential diagnosis, teaching points, management, and further reading suggestions.
Case 27
Authors: Scoutt Leslie M. , Hamper Ulrike M. , Angtuaco Teresita L.
Published: January 2017

This is a case from the First Trimester section of Ultrasound. The specific content of each case and its diagnosis are necessarily hidden from this abstract. Each case contains case history, followed immediately by the diagnosis, which is supported with findings, differential diagnosis, teaching points, management, and further reading suggestions.
Case 33
Authors: Scoutt Leslie M. , Hamper Ulrike M. , Angtuaco Teresita L.
Published: January 2017

This is a case from the First Trimester section of Ultrasound. The specific content of each case and its diagnosis are necessarily hidden from this abstract. Each case contains case history, followed immediately by the diagnosis, which is supported with findings, differential diagnosis, teaching points, management, and further reading suggestions.
Case 42
Authors: Scoutt Leslie M. , Hamper Ulrike M. , Angtuaco Teresita L.
Published: January 2017

This is a case from the Second Trimester section of Ultrasound. The specific content of each case and its diagnosis are necessarily hidden from this abstract. Each case contains case history, followed immediately by the diagnosis, which is supported with findings, differential diagnosis, teaching points, management, and further reading suggestions.
Case 43
Authors: Scoutt Leslie M. , Hamper Ulrike M. , Angtuaco Teresita L.
Published: January 2017

This is a case from the Second Trimester section of Ultrasound. The specific content of each case and its diagnosis are necessarily hidden from this abstract. Each case contains case history, followed immediately by the diagnosis, which is supported with findings, differential diagnosis, teaching points, management, and further reading suggestions.
Case 47
Authors: Scoutt Leslie M. , Hamper Ulrike M. , Angtuaco Teresita L.
Published: January 2017

This is a case from the Second Trimester section of Ultrasound. The specific content of each case and its diagnosis are necessarily hidden from this abstract. Each case contains case history, followed immediately by the diagnosis, which is supported with findings, differential diagnosis, teaching points, management, and further reading suggestions.
Case 48
Authors: Scoutt Leslie M. , Hamper Ulrike M. , Angtuaco Teresita L.
Published: January 2017

This is a case from the Second Trimester section of Ultrasound. The specific content of each case and its diagnosis are necessarily hidden from this abstract. Each case contains case history, followed immediately by the diagnosis, which is supported with findings, differential diagnosis, teaching points, management, and further reading suggestions.
Case 54
Authors: Scoutt Leslie M. , Hamper Ulrike M. , Angtuaco Teresita L.
Published: January 2017

This is a case from the Second Trimester section of Ultrasound. The specific content of each case and its diagnosis are necessarily hidden from this abstract. Each case contains case history, followed immediately by the diagnosis, which is supported with findings, differential diagnosis, teaching points, management, and further reading suggestions.
Case 61
Authors: Scoutt Leslie M. , Hamper Ulrike M. , Angtuaco Teresita L.
Published: January 2017

This is a case from the Second Trimester section of Ultrasound. The specific content of each case and its diagnosis are necessarily hidden from this abstract. Each case contains case history, followed immediately by the diagnosis, which is supported with findings, differential diagnosis, teaching points, management, and further reading suggestions.
Case 63
Authors: Scoutt Leslie M. , Hamper Ulrike M. , Angtuaco Teresita L.
Published: January 2017

This is a case from the Second Trimester section of Ultrasound. The specific content of each case and its diagnosis are necessarily hidden from this abstract. Each case contains case history, followed immediately by the diagnosis, which is supported with findings, differential diagnosis, teaching points, management, and further reading suggestions.
Case 71
Authors: Scoutt Leslie M. , Hamper Ulrike M. , Angtuaco Teresita L.
Published: January 2017

This is a case from the Abdomen section of Ultrasound. The specific content of each case and its diagnosis are necessarily hidden from this abstract. Each case contains case history, followed immediately by the diagnosis, which is supported with findings, differential diagnosis, teaching points, management, and further reading suggestions.
Case 87
Authors: Scoutt Leslie M. , Hamper Ulrike M. , Angtuaco Teresita L.
Published: January 2017

This is a case from the Abdomen section of Ultrasound. The specific content of each case and its diagnosis are necessarily hidden from this abstract. Each case contains case history, followed immediately by the diagnosis, which is supported with findings, differential diagnosis, teaching points, management, and further reading suggestions.
Case 90
Authors: Scoutt Leslie M. , Hamper Ulrike M. , Angtuaco Teresita L.
Published: January 2017

This is a case from the Abdomen section of Ultrasound. The specific content of each case and its diagnosis are necessarily hidden from this abstract. Each case contains case history, followed immediately by the diagnosis, which is supported with findings, differential diagnosis, teaching points, management, and further reading suggestions.
Case 101
Authors: Scoutt Leslie M. , Hamper Ulrike M. , Angtuaco Teresita L.
Published: January 2017

This is a case from the Abdomen section of Ultrasound. The specific content of each case and its diagnosis are necessarily hidden from this abstract. Each case contains case history, followed immediately by the diagnosis, which is supported with findings, differential diagnosis, teaching points, management, and further reading suggestions.
Case 109
Authors: Scoutt Leslie M. , Hamper Ulrike M. , Angtuaco Teresita L.
Published: January 2017

This is a case from the Abdomen section of Ultrasound. The specific content of each case and its diagnosis are necessarily hidden from this abstract. Each case contains case history, followed immediately by the diagnosis, which is supported with findings, differential diagnosis, teaching points, management, and further reading suggestions.
Case 112
Authors: Scoutt Leslie M. , Hamper Ulrike M. , Angtuaco Teresita L.
Published: January 2017

This is a case from the Abdomen section of Ultrasound. The specific content of each case and its diagnosis are necessarily hidden from this abstract. Each case contains case history, followed immediately by the diagnosis, which is supported with findings, differential diagnosis, teaching points, management, and further reading suggestions.
Case 119
Authors: Scoutt Leslie M. , Hamper Ulrike M. , Angtuaco Teresita L.
Published: January 2017

This is a case from the Small Parts section of Ultrasound. The specific content of each case and its diagnosis are necessarily hidden from this abstract. Each case contains case history, followed immediately by the diagnosis, which is supported with findings, differential diagnosis, teaching points, management, and further reading suggestions.
Case 154
Authors: Scoutt Leslie M. , Hamper Ulrike M. , Angtuaco Teresita L.
Published: January 2017

This is a case from the Vascular section of Ultrasound. The specific content of each case and its diagnosis are necessarily hidden from this abstract. Each case contains case history, followed immediately by the diagnosis, which is supported with findings, differential diagnosis, teaching points, management, and further reading suggestions.
Case 157
Authors: Scoutt Leslie M. , Hamper Ulrike M. , Angtuaco Teresita L.
Published: January 2017

This is a case from the Vascular section of Ultrasound. The specific content of each case and its diagnosis are necessarily hidden from this abstract. Each case contains case history, followed immediately by the diagnosis, which is supported with findings, differential diagnosis, teaching points, management, and further reading suggestions.
Case 158
Authors: Scoutt Leslie M. , Hamper Ulrike M. , Angtuaco Teresita L.
Published: January 2017

This is a case from the Vascular section of Ultrasound. The specific content of each case and its diagnosis are necessarily hidden from this abstract. Each case contains case history, followed immediately by the diagnosis, which is supported with findings, differential diagnosis, teaching points, management, and further reading suggestions.
Case 159
Authors: Scoutt Leslie M. , Hamper Ulrike M. , Angtuaco Teresita L.
Published: January 2017

This is a case from the Vascular section of Ultrasound. The specific content of each case and its diagnosis are necessarily hidden from this abstract. Each case contains case history, followed immediately by the diagnosis, which is supported with findings, differential diagnosis, teaching points, management, and further reading suggestions.
Case 161
Authors: Scoutt Leslie M. , Hamper Ulrike M. , Angtuaco Teresita L.
Published: January 2017

This is a case from the Vascular section of Ultrasound. The specific content of each case and its diagnosis are necessarily hidden from this abstract. Each case contains case history, followed immediately by the diagnosis, which is supported with findings, differential diagnosis, teaching points, management, and further reading suggestions.
Credit Expansion and Neglected Crash Risk*
Authors: Baron Matthew , Xiong Wei
Published: January 2017

By analyzing 20 developed economies over 1920–2012, we find the following evidence of overoptimism and neglect of crash risk by bank equity investors during credit expansions: (i) bank credit expansion predicts increased bank equity crash risk, but despite the elevated crash risk, also predicts lower mean bank equity returns in subsequent one to three years; (ii) conditional on bank credit expansion of a country exceeding a 95th percentile threshold, the predicted excess return for the bank equity index in subsequent three years is −37.3%; and (iii) bank credit expansion is distinct from equity market sentiment captured by dividend yield and yet dividend yield and credit expansion interact with each other to make credit expansion a particularly strong predictor of lower bank equity returns when dividend yield is low.