bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How does business analytics contribute to business value?
Authors: Seddon Peter B. , Constantinidis Dora , Tamm Toomas , Dod Harjot
Published: April 2016

This paper presents a model, synthesized from the literature, of factors that explain how business analytics contributes to business value. It also reports results from a preliminary assessment of that model. The model consists of two parts: a process and a variance model. The process model depicts the analyze‐insight‐decision‐action process through which use of an organization's business analytic capabilities is intended to create business value. The variance model proposes that the five factors in Davenport et al.'s DELTA model of business analytics success factors, six from Watson & Wixom and three from Seddon et al.'s model of organizational benefits from enterprise systems, assist a firm to gain business value from business analytics. A preliminary assessment of the model was conducted using data from 100 customer success stories from vendors such as IBM, SAP and Teradata. Our conclusion is that the business analytics success model is likely to be a useful basis for future research.
Spleen hypoplasia leads to abnormal stress hematopoiesis in mice with loss of Pbx homeoproteins in splenic mesenchyme
Authors: Zewdu Rediet , Risolino Maurizio , Barbulescu Alexandru , Ramalingam Pradeep , Butler Jason M. , Selleri Licia
Published: April 2016

The spleen plays critical roles in immunity and also provides a permissive microenvironment for hematopoiesis. Previous studies have reported that the TALE‐class homeodomain transcription factor Pbx1 is essential in hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs) for stem cell maintenance and progenitor expansion. However, the role of Pbx1 in the hematopoietic niche has not been investigated. Here we explored the effects that genetic perturbation of the splenic mesenchymal niche has on hematopoiesis upon loss of members of the Pbx family of homeoproteins. Splenic mesenchyme‐specific inactivation of Pbx1 (SKO) on a Pbx2‐ or Pbx3‐deficient genetic background (DKO) resulted in abnormal development of the spleen, which is dysmorphic and severely hypoplastic. This phenotype, in turn, affected the number of HSPCs in the fetal and adult spleen at steady state, as well as markedly impairing the kinetics of hematopoietic regeneration in adult mice after sub‐lethal and lethal myelosuppressive irradiation. Spleens of mice with compound Pyx deficiency 8 days following sublethal irradiation displayed significant downregulation of multiple cytokine‐encoding genes, including KitL/SCF, Cxcl12/SDF‐1, IL‐3, IL‐4, GM‐CSF/Csf2 IL‐10, and Igf‐1, compared with controls. KitL/SCF and Cxcl12/SDF‐1 were recently shown to play key roles in the splenic niche in response to various haematopoietic stresses such as myeloablation, blood loss, or pregnancy. Our results demonstrate that, in addition to their intrinsic roles in HSPCs, non‐cell autonomous functions of Pbx factors within the splenic niche contribute to the regulation of hematopoiesis, at least in part via the control of KitL/SCF and Cxcl12/SDF‐1. Furthermore, our study establishes that abnormal spleen development and hypoplasia have deleterious effects on the efficiency of hematopoietic recovery after bone marrow injury.
Nursing physical assessment for patient safety in general wards: reaching consensus on core skills
Authors: Douglas Clint , Booker Catriona , Fox Robyn , Windsor Carol , Osborne Sonya , Gardner Glenn
Published: April 2016

Aims and objectives

To determine consensus across acute care specialty areas on core physical assessment skills necessary for early recognition of changes in patient status in general wards.

Background

Current approaches to physical assessment are inconsistent and have not evolved to meet increased patient and system demands. New models of nursing assessment are needed in general wards that ensure a proactive and patient safety approach.

Design

A modified Delphi study.

Methods

Focus group interviews with 150 acute care registered nurses at a large tertiary referral hospital generated a framework of core skills that were developed into a web‐based survey. We then sought consensus with a panel of 35 senior acute care registered nurses following a classical Delphi approach over three rounds. Consensus was predefined as at least 80% agreement for each skill across specialty areas.

Results

Content analysis of focus group transcripts identified 40 discrete core physical assessment skills. In the Delphi rounds, 16 of these were consensus validated as core skills and were conceptually aligned with the primary survey: (Airway) Assess airway patency; (Breathing) Measure respiratory rate, Evaluate work of breathing, Measure oxygen saturation; (Circulation) Palpate pulse rate and rhythm, Measure blood pressure by auscultation, Assess urine output; (Disability) Assess level of consciousness, Evaluate speech, Assess for pain; (Exposure) Measure body temperature, Inspect skin integrity, Inspect and palpate skin for signs of pressure injury, Observe any wounds, dressings, drains and invasive lines, Observe ability to transfer and mobilise, Assess bowel movements.

Conclusions

Among a large and diverse group of experienced acute care registered nurses consensus was achieved on a structured core physical assessment to detect early changes in patient status.

Relevance to clinical practice

Although further research is needed to refine the model, clinical application should promote systematic assessment and clinical reasoning at the bedside.
Domestic violence and abuse: an exploration and evaluation of a domestic abuse nurse specialist role in acute health care services
Authors: McGarry Julie
Published: April 2016

Aims and objectives

The aim of this study was to explore the experiences of clinical staff in responding to disclosure of domestic violence and abuse, and to evaluate the effectiveness of training and support provided by a dedicated Domestic Abuse Nurse Specialist across one acute National Health Service Trust in the UK.

Background

The impact of domestic violence and abuse is well documented and is far reaching. Health care professionals have a key role to play in the effective identification and management of abuse across a range of settings. However, there is a paucity of evidence regarding the constituents of effective support for practitioners within wider nonemergency hospital‐based services.

Design

A qualitative approach semi‐structured interviews (n = 11) with clinical staff based in one acute care Trust in the UK. Interviews were informed by an interview guide and analysed using the Framework approach.

Findings

The organisation of the nurse specialist role facilitated a more cohesive approach to management at an organisational level with training and ongoing support identified as key facets of the role by practitioners. Time constraints were apparent in terms of staff training and this raises questions with regard to the status continuing professional development around domestic violence and abuse.

Conclusions

Domestic violence and abuse continues to exert a significant and detrimental impact on the lives and health of those who encounter abuse. Health care services in the UK and globally are increasingly on the frontline in terms of identification and management of domestic violence and abuse. This is coupled with the growing recognition of the need for adequate support structures to be in place to facilitate practitioners in providing effective care for survivors of domestic violence and abuse.

Relevance to clinical practice

This study provides an approach to the expansion of existing models and one which has the potential for further exploration and application in similar settings.
‘Sticking to carpets’ – assessment and judgement in health visiting practice in an era of risk: a qualitative study
Authors: King Caroline
Published: April 2016

Aim and objective

This paper aims to explore health visitors’ accounts of assessment and judgement in health visiting in the context of policy change and an increased focus on risk, which is reshaping practice.

Background

Assessment and judgement underpin the targeting of support in health visiting practice. Existing literature suggests that needs assessment in health visiting is a complex process which draws on different types of knowledge.

Methods

The study, upon which this paper draws, was a qualitative exploration which aimed to explore the impact of policy change on health visiting practice and on families. The accounts of sixteen health visitors, who took part in semi‐structured interviews, are reported. The interview data were analysed using thematic and narrative techniques.

Results

Health visitors’ accounts of their observations of families’ homes, relationships and practices, such as their references to ‘dirt’, harmful practices and appropriateness, illustrate ways in which assessment and judgement in health visiting practice are shaped by a discourse of risk and notions of ideal parenting. Health visitors problematise this discourse in relation to the potential stigmatising impacts for families. Although health visitors indicate ambivalence towards the use of assessment tools, the findings indicate that they feel the tools provide them with a safety‐net at a time when their practice is being reshaped by a discourse of risk.

Conclusion

This paper identifies that assessment and judgement in contemporary health visiting are shaped by a discourse of risk. A discussion of the role of ‘emotion in use’ and collective emotions provides an appropriate theoretical lens to consider the impact that risk discourse has on health visiting practice and on families.

Relevance to clinical practice

This study highlights the need for assessment and judgement in health visiting practice to be highly reflexive, to support families in an era of risk.
A longitudinal qualitative study of health care personnel's perceptions of simultaneous implementation of three risk assessment scales on falls, malnutrition and pressure ulcers
Authors: Skytt Bernice , Engström Maria , Mårtensson Gunilla , Mamhidir Anna‐Greta
Published: April 2016

Aims and objectives

In this study, the aim was to understand health care personnel's expectations and experiences of participating in an intervention aimed at the implementation of three assessment scales for fall injuries, malnutrition and pressure ulcers, and the performance of preventive measures in these areas over the period of 18 months.

Background

Fall injuries, malnutrition and pressure ulcers among older people are challenging issues for caregivers at different levels in the health care system.

Design

A descriptive design with a qualitative approach was used to follow health care personnel before, during and after implementation of a care prevention intervention.

Methods

Twelve health care personnel with different professions at the hospital, primary care and municipal care levels participated in a preventive care introduction. Seminars were held at four occasions, with assignments to be completed between seminars. Lectures and group discussions were performed, and three risk assessment scales were introduced. The participants were interviewed before, during and after the introduction. Manifest and latent content analysis were used.

Results

The main results are presented in the theme ‘Patient needs are visualised through a gradually developed shared understanding’ and in five categories. The work approach of performing three risk assessments simultaneously was perceived as positive and central to ensuring quality of care; it was not, however, perceived as unproblematic.

Conclusion

The participants as well as health care team members showed a positive attitude towards and described the advantages of being given opportunities for shared understanding to improve patient safety and to provide structure for the provision of good care.

Relevance to clinical practice

The managerial approach of listening to and acting on issues stressed by health care personnel is important to ensure ongoing and future improvement initiatives.
MR Angiography at 7T to Visualize Cerebrovascular Territories
Authors: Neumann Jan‐Oliver , Giese Henrik , Nagel Armin M. , Biller Armin , Unterberg Andreas , Meinzer Hans‐Peter
Published: April 2016

BACKGROUND

There is considerable amount of interindividual variability in the size and location of the vascular territories of the major brain arteries. More data are needed to assess the amount of variability and the possible implications for further research and patient care. Arterial spin labeling (ASL) magnetic resonance imaging has been applied in various forms to facilitate noninvasive imaging of cerebrovascular flow territories, but it requires the definition of the flow territory of interest prior to image acquisition.

OBJECTIVE

Assessing the vascular territories of the major brain territories by using ultra‐high‐field time‐of‐flight (TOF) magnetic resonance angiography.

METHODS

We have developed an alternative method to ASL by simulating cerebrovascular dye injections. Following bias field normalization and segmentation of the vessels from 7 Tesla TOF imaging, a virtual model of the arterial vessel tree was generated and a simulation of dye dispersion into the brain tissue was performed.

RESULTS

The results provided by our method are consistent with the data obtained by autoptic dye injection studies in 23 human beings by van der Zwan in 1993.

CONCLUSION

Further technical improvements in imaging and segmentation techniques will improve the accuracy of the method and will facilitate the delineation of flow territories after image acquisition on even smaller subtrees of the cerebral vasculature.
Busting Out: Predictive Brains, Embodied Minds, and the Puzzle of the Evidentiary Veil
Authors: Clark Andy
Published: April 2016

Biological brains are increasingly cast as ‘prediction machines’: evolved organs whose core operating principle is to learn about the world by trying to predict their own patterns of sensory stimulation. This, some argue, should lead us to embrace a brain‐bound ‘neurocentric’ vision of the mind. The mind, such views suggest, consists entirely in the skull‐bound activity of the predictive brain. In this paper I reject the inference from predictive brains to skull‐bound minds. Predictive brains, I hope to show, can be apt participants in larger cognitive circuits. The path is thus cleared for a new synthesis in which predictive brains act as entry‐points for ‘extended minds’, and embodiment and action contribute constitutively to knowing contact with the world.
Institutional Quality Mediates the Effect of Human Capital on Economic Performance
Authors: Adams‐Kane Jonathon , Lim Jamus Jerome
Published: April 2016

This paper considers the relationship between institutional quality, educational outcomes, and economic performance. More specifically, we seek to establish the linkages by which government effectiveness affects per capita income via its mediating impact on human capital formation. Our empirical approach adopts a two‐stage strategy that estimates national‐level educational production functions that include government effectiveness as a covariate, and uses these estimates as instruments for human capital in cross‐country regressions of per capita income. Our results identify a significant and positive effect of human capital on per capita income levels, and partially resolves the inconsistency between macro‐ and micro‐level studies of the effect of human capital on income. The results remain robust to alternative specifications, extension to a panel setting, subsamples of the data and fully endogenous institutions.
Welfare‐improving Coordinated Tariff and Sales Tax Reforms under Imperfect Competition
Authors: Okawa Masayuki , Iguchi Tatsuya
Published: April 2016

This paper studies the welfare effects of coordinated domestic sales tax reform associated with a reduction of the import tariff under imperfect competition. We set up a simple oligopoly trading model where domestic and exporting firms compete in the home market. We show that, if the initial levels of import tariff and sales tax are positive, there always exist welfare‐improving sales tax reforms. In some cases, a reduction of the sales tax accompanied by a reduction of the import tariff increases social welfare, whereas in other cases, raising the sales tax can increase social welfare.
Environmental Ramsey Policy and Sustainable Balanced Growth
Authors: Park Hyun , Philippopoulos Apostolis
Published: April 2016

We study the link among economic growth, renewable natural resources and environmental policy. The context is a general equilibrium model of endogenous growth and environmental policy. We examine the conditions under which sustainable growth is both feasible and optimal, where the latter takes the form of second‐best optimal environmental Ramsey policies. We also investigate the conditions for an inverted U‐shaped relation between environmental policies and sustainable growth. We show that the combination of environmental production externalities and second‐best optimal Ramsey policies can lead to both local and global indeterminacy. The introduction of environmental policy, although well‐intentioned and designed to correct for market inefficiencies, triggers an expectations coordination problem; thereby differences in environmental quality and economic growth can be explained among countries with the same fundamentals.
Revenue‐enhancing Trade Liberalization in a Differentiated Duopoly
Authors: Shim Kieun , Jeong Kyonghwa
Published: April 2016

Existing studies suggest that in developing countries, tax reforms that increase consumption taxes can compensate for shortfalls in revenue from a tariff reduction. However, these revenue‐enhancing tariff–tax reforms have a critical shortcoming—they generally reduce welfare under imperfect competition. This paper shows that tax reforms such as consumption tax reforms do not necessarily have to be implemented to make up for revenue shortfalls from tariff reductions under imperfect competition, because trade liberalization through tariff cuts leads to an increase in government revenue when domestic and imported goods have a high substitutability. This revenue‐enhancing effect of a tariff reduction occurs for a wider degree of product substitutability when initial tariff and consumption tax rates are high. More importantly, we show that even if initial tariff and consumption tax rates are sufficiently low, a tariff reduction still increases government revenue for a low degree of product differentiation under Bertrand competition.
Credit Constraints, Technology Choice and Exports: A Firm‐level Study for Latin American Countries
Authors: Hasan Syed , Sheldon Ian
Published: April 2016

In this paper, constraints on technology choice and credit access are introduced into a firm‐level trade model in a dynamic setting in order to explain factors that limit benefits to a firm from trade liberalization. Theoretical analysis shows that firms face credit constraints depending on their initial productivity and the cost of credit. As a result, credit‐constrained firms may not be able to cross the minimum productivity threshold needed to enter and compete in a foreign market. Empirical analysis using firm‐level panel data for six Latin American countries confirms that financial constraints negatively influence firms' export and investment decisions.
Kaldorian Disaggregation, Temporary Migration and Domestic Welfare
Authors: Lai Jennifer T. , Hazari Bharat R. , Mohan Vijay
Published: April 2016

We build a model with two agents: domestic residents and temporary immigrants. The model incorporates Kaldorian disaggregation, with the two groups consuming different goods produced in the economy. It is established that, under certain conditions, an increase in immigrant labor lowers the welfare of the domestic residents. This runs against conventional wisdom that temporary immigration enhances the welfare of domestic residents.
Is there also a North–South Divide in the Diffusion of Crime? A Cluster Analysis of Italian Provinces
Authors: Lombardo Rosetta
Published: April 2016

The presence of crime is often considered as one of the most important social variables to be negatively associated with economic development. As is well known, Italy exhibits an economic divide between its central‐northern and southern regions. This paper tries to ascertain whether there is also a divide in the diffusion of crime. To this purpose, Italian provinces are classified into groups by using a new methodology that combines cluster analysis with time series cross‐section data. The statistical searches for groups are carried out by using an unbalanced time series cross‐section data‐set made up of yearly observations. The results of the analysis show that crime is not inextricably tied to certain geographical locations, and not others, as is usually believed.
Compound Random Measures and their Use in Bayesian Non-Parametrics
Authors: Griffin Jim E. , Leisen Fabrizio
Published: April 2016

A new class of dependent random measures which we call compound random measures is proposed and the use of normalized versions of these random measures as priors in Bayesian non-parametric mixture models is considered. Their tractability allows the properties of both compound random measures and normalized compound random measures to be derived. In particular, we show how compound random measures can be constructed with gamma, σ-stable and generalized gamma process marginals. We also derive several forms of the Laplace exponent and characterize dependence through both the Lévy copula and the correlation function. An augmented Pólya urn scheme sampler and a slice sampler are described for posterior inference when a normalized compound random measure is used as the mixing measure in a non-parametric mixture model and a data example is discussed.
Efficient Estimation of Semiparametric Transformation Models for the Cumulative Incidence of Competing Risks
Authors: Mao Lu , Lin D. Y.
Published: April 2016

The cumulative incidence is the probability of failure from the cause of interest over a certain time period in the presence of other risks. A semiparametric regression model proposed by Fine and Gray has become the method of choice for formulating the effects of covariates on the cumulative incidence. Its estimation, however, requires modelling of the censoring distribution and is not statistically efficient. We present a broad class of semiparametric transformation models which extends the Fine and Gray model, and we allow for unknown causes of failure. We derive the non-parametric maximum likelihood estimators and develop simple and fast numerical algorithms using the profile likelihood. We establish the consistency, asymptotic normality and semiparametric efficiency of the non-parametric maximum likelihood estimators. In addition, we construct graphical and numerical procedures to evaluate and select models. Finally, we demonstrate the advantages of the proposed methods over the existing methods through extensive simulation studies and an application to a major study on bone marrow transplantation.
Sexuality in men after prostate cancer surgery: a qualitative interview study
Authors: Schantz Laursen Birgitte
Published: April 2016

Introduction

Prostate cancer affects a growing number of men. Although erectile dysfunction is a well‐known side effect, its impact on sex life and sexuality is under‐researched.

Purpose

The aim of this study was therefore to elucidate the effect of surgical treatment for prostate cancer on men's sexuality.

Methods

Data for the descriptive qualitative study were collected in interviews. The author applied a phenomenological–hermeneutic frame of understanding.

Results

Four themes appeared in the analysis of the interviews: lack of control, sense of self, intimate relations and redefining sexuality.

Conclusion

Men experience erectile dysfunction as a negative influence on their sexuality with respect to their sex life, sense of self and intimate relations. The dysfunction is thus shown not only to affect sexual life but also to have repercussions for a range of aspects in male intimate life. A broader perspective should be applied in supporting the men's efforts towards improving their quality of life, for example through sexual counselling services performed by nurses.
Can the everyday technology use questionnaire predict overall functional level among older adults with mild cognitive impairment or mild‐stage alzheimer's disease? – a pilot study
Authors: Ryd Charlotta , Nygård Louise , Malinowsky Camilla , Öhman Annika , Kottorp Anders
Published: April 2016

Introduction

The number of older adults living with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or mild‐stage Alzheimer's disease (AD) is increasing and they are often expected to live in their own homes without support, despite limited ability to perform daily life activities. The Everyday Technology Use Questionnaire (ETUQ) has proven to be able to separate these groups and might also have potential to predict overall functional level (need of assistance in daily life activities) among them.

Aim

To investigate whether the ETUQ can predict overall functional level among older adults with MCI or mild‐stage AD.

Method

Participants were older adults with a mean age of 76 years with MCI (n = 28) or mild‐stage AD (n = 39). A three‐step scale indicating (i) independence, (ii) need for minimal assistance or (iii) need for moderate to maximal assistance in daily life was dichotomised in two ways and used as outcome variables in two logistic regression models. Predictors in both models were perceived ability to use everyday technology (ET) and amount of relevant everyday technologies measured by the ETUQ. Ethical approval was obtained from the regional Ethical Committee.

Result

Perceived ability to use ET discriminated individuals who were independent or in need of minimal support from those in need of moderate to maximal assistance (OR = 1.82, p < 0.01, confidence interval = 95%; 1.76–2.82). The amount of relevant everyday technologies discriminated individuals who were independent from those in need of assistance at any level (OR = 1.39; p < 0.01; confidence interval = 95%; 1.11–1.75).

Conclusion

Both perceived ability to use ET and amount of relevant everyday technologies had potential to predict overall function but at different levels. The findings support the predictive validity of the ETUQ and suggest further research for the development of clinical cut‐off criteria.
KIR genotypic diversity in Portuguese and analysis of KIR gene allocation after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation
Authors: Ligeiro D. , Buhler S. , Abecasis M. , Abade O. , Sanchez‐Mazas A. , da Silva M. Gomes , Trindade H.
Published: April 2016

The diversity of killer‐cell immunoglobulin‐like receptors (KIR) genes was evaluated in Portuguese and the observed genotypic profiles were found related to the ones reported in European populations. The KIR repertoire after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation is determined by these gene frequencies and the KIR group B motifs are the less common. We estimated donor–KIR/recipient–ligand interactions in transplants with related donors and unrelated donors found in a local registry or from abroad. A large fraction of transplants had all three ligands of inhibitory receptors, and therefore, in theory were not prone to natural killer cell (NK) mediated alloreactivity. Furthermore, the distribution of KIR alloreactive interactions was found independent of the donor–recipient genetic proximity, probably because of different gene segregation and comparable KIR frequencies in the donor pools.
HLA‐A*24:333, a novel HLA‐A*24 variant, discovered in a Taiwanese individual
Authors: Yang K. L. , Hung J. H. , Lin P. Y.
Published: April 2016

Four nucleotide replacements of HLA‐A*24:02:01:01 result in a novel allele, HLA‐A*24:333.
Identification of the novel KIR2DL2*00103 allele in a Chinese individual by sequence‐based typing
Authors: He Y‐M. , Tao S‐D. , Dong L‐N. , He J. , Zhu F‐M.
Published: April 2016

The KIR2DL2*00103 allele is different from KIR2DL2*00101 by a single nucleotide substitution at position 996 C>T.
Production and characterization of monoclonal antibodies specific for canine CD138 (syndecan‐1) for nuclear medicine preclinical trials on spontaneous tumours
Authors: Diab M. , Nguyen F. , Berthaud M. , Maurel C. , Gaschet J. , Verger E. , Ibisch C. , Rousseau C. , Chérel M. , Abadie J. , Davodeau F.
Published: April 2016

We isolated 11 antibodies specific for canine CD138 (cCD138) to validate the interest of CD138 antigen targeting in dogs with spontaneous mammary carcinoma. The affinity of the monoclonal antibodies in the nanomolar range is suitable for immunohistochemistry and nuclear medicine applications. Four distinct epitopes were recognized on cCD138 by this panel of antibodies. CD138 expression in canine healthy tissues is comparable to that reported in humans. CD138 is frequently expressed in canine mammary carcinomas corresponding to the human triple negative breast cancer subtype, with cytoplasmic and membranous expression. In canine diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma, CD138 expression is associated with the ‘non‐germinal center’ phenotype corresponding to the most aggressive subtype in humans. This homology of CD138 expression between dogs and humans confirms the relevance of tumour‐bearing dogs as spontaneous models for nuclear medicine applications, especially for the evaluation of new tumour targeting strategies for diagnosis by phenotypic imaging and radio‐immunotherapy.
Retrospective evaluation of shortened prothrombin time or activated partial thromboplastin time for the diagnosis of hypercoagulability in dogs: 25 cases (2006–2011)
Authors: Song Jennifer , Drobatz Kenneth J. , Silverstein Deborah C.
Published: April 2016

Objective

To evaluate the relationship between shortened prothrombin time (PT) or activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) values, clinical findings associated with hypercoagulability, suspicion of pulmonary thromboembolism (PTE), D‐dimer concentrations, and thromboelastogram (TEG) indices.

Design

Retrospective observational study from 2006 to 2011.

Setting

University veterinary teaching hospital.

Animals

Twenty‐three dogs with TEG tracings and shortened PT or aPTT values and 23 control dogs with TEG tracings and normal PT and aPTT values.

Measurements and Main Results

Parameters evaluated included signalment, coagulation testing results (PT, aPTT, D‐dimer concentration), TEG measurements (R, K, α, maximal amplitude) and calculated clotting index, findings of clinical hypercoagulability (thrombosis of intravenous/intra‐arterial catheters, vessel thrombosis, and suspected PTE). Dogs with shortened PT or aPTT had significantly more thrombus formation (P= 0.038), suspicion of PTE (P< 0.001), and increased D‐dimer concentration (P< 0.001) compared to dogs with normal PT and aPTT values. There were no significant findings when compared to TEG values.

Conclusions

A shortened PT or aPTT in dogs may be indicative of a hypercoagulable state as evidenced by an increased incidence of thrombosis, frequency of suspected PTE, and increased circulating D‐dimers. A prospective study is warranted to further evaluate the use of PT and aPTT to diagnose hypercoagulable states.
Evaluation of the safety and tolerability of rivaroxaban in dogs with presumed primary immune‐mediated hemolytic anemia
Authors: Morassi Alice , Bianco Domenico , Park Ed , Nakamura Reid K. , White George A.
Published: April 2016

Objective

To evaluate the safety and tolerability of rivaroxaban (RIV), an oral direct factor Xa inhibitory drug, in dogs with presumed primary immune‐mediated hemolytic anemia (pIMHA).

Design

Prospective, multicenter, positive‐controlled, unblinded clinical trial. Client‐owned dogs were enrolled between October 2012 and March 2014.

Setting

Private referral centers.

Animals

Twenty‐four client‐owned dogs with pIMHA. Enrolled dogs were randomized in 2 treatment groups to receive by mouth RIV or clopidogrel (CL) and low‐dose aspirin (LDA). All dogs were monitored for 90 days from the enrollment in the study.

Interventions

Enrolled dogs were given a standardized immunosuppressive protocol and RIV or CL and LDA.

Measurements and Main Results

There was no identifiable adverse drug reaction, evidence of hemorrhage, significant prolongation of prothrombin time or activated partial thromboplastin time, or increase in transfusion requirements associated with RIV therapy compared to CL and LDA in dogs with pIMHA. There was no significant difference between treatment groups with respect to thrombotic events, survival rates to discharge, at 1 month and 3 months from diagnosis.

Conclusions

This study suggests that RIV at a median dose of 0.89 mg/kg by mouth once daily was safe and well tolerated in a small group of dogs with presumed pIMHA able to tolerate oral medications and treated with a standardized immunosuppressive treatment protocol. Conclusions regarding the relative efficacy of RIV as compared to CL and LDA cannot be made due to the small size of the treatment groups and because pharmacodynamic effects were not assessed.
Using the Freeth/Kirkpatrick model to evaluate interprofessional learning outcomes in a rural setting
Authors: Craig Pippa , Hall Sally , Phillips Christine
Published: April 2016

Background: Considerable claims have been made for the benefits of interprofessional learning (IPL) despite limited evidence of its long-term effectiveness. A collaboration between the Australian National University and the University of South Australia offered opportunities for senior health professional students to undertake IPL teamwork placements in rural NSW—the Health “Hubs and Spokes” Project. The aim of this study was to evaluate, using mixed methods, the outcomes of an IPL project on all four levels of the Freeth/Kirkpatrick evaluation model. Methods: Students completed a debriefing questionnaire, the Interprofessional Education Perception Scale (IEPS) and the Team Performance Scale (TPS) at the time they undertook IPL placements. A follow-up study measured anticipated professional networks and extent of their interprofessional experience. IPL facilitators, clinical supervisors and local health service representatives were asked to provide their views of perceived project outcomes. Results: Initial evaluation demonstrated positive student reaction (Level 1), attitude change and collaborative skills (Level 2). While the follow-up study failed to show significant changes in the size of expected professional networks, qualitative exploration of transfer of learning to professional practice (Level 3) and impact of IPL placements in rural locations (Level 4) suggest a positive impact on participants and on healthcare delivery. Conclusion: The project generated student satisfaction, changes in attitude and skills, and longer-term positive impacts on the community and possibly on the students’ professional practice. This evaluation model can be used effectively to evaluate outcomes of IPL teamwork placements in rural settings and potentially in other locations.
International brain projects proposed
Authors: Underwood Emily
Published: April 2016

Meeting attendees debate big science ideas, including need for global data hub.
Dutch push for a quantum leap in open access
Authors: Enserink Martin
Published: April 2016

E.U. urged to free all papers by 2020.
Gene therapy gets a high-stakes test
Authors: Couzin-Frankel Jennifer
Published: April 2016

Researchers hope gene transfer can improve fetal blood supply.
Flux and composition of interstellar dust at Saturn from Cassini’s Cosmic Dust Analyzer
Authors: Altobelli N. , Postberg F. , Fiege K. , Trieloff M. , Kimura H. , Sterken V. J. , Hsu H.-W. , Hillier J. , Khawaja N. , Moragas-Klostermeyer G. , Blum J. , Burton M. , Srama R. , Kempf S. , Gruen E.
Published: April 2016

Cassini detects interstellar dust grains

The interstellar medium contains an array of small solid particles known as dust grains. Altobelli
et al.
used the dust analyzer on the Cassini probe to detect 36 interstellar dust grains as they passed by Saturn, and they measured the grains' elemental abundances. The results show that, remarkably, these grains lack carbon-bearing compounds and have been homogenized in the interstellar medium into silicates with iron inclusions.

Science
, this issue p.
312
Climate change disables coral bleaching protection on the Great Barrier Reef
Authors: Ainsworth Tracy D. , Heron Scott F. , Ortiz Juan Carlos , Mumby Peter J. , Grech Alana , Ogawa Daisie , Eakin C. Mark , Leggat William
Published: April 2016

Bleaching of the Great Barrier Reef

The Australian Great Barrier Reef (GBR) is one of Earth's most extraordinary natural wonders, but it is vulnerable to climate change. Ainsworth
et al.
have tracked the effects of three decades of increasing heat stress on coral organisms. In the past, pulses of elevated temperatures that presaged hot seasons stimulated the acclimation of coral organisms and resilience to thermal stress. More recently, temperature hikes have been severe and precluded acclimation. The result has been increasing bleaching and death; notably extreme during 2016 in the wake of El Niño.

Science
, this issue p.
338
Photovoltaic materials: Present efficiencies and future challenges
Authors: Polman Albert , Knight Mark , Garnett Erik C. , Ehrler Bruno , Sinke Wim C.
Published: April 2016

Surveying the solar cell landscape

The rate of development and deployment of large-scale photovoltaic systems over recent years has been unprecedented. Because the cost of photovoltaic systems is only partly determined by the cost of the solar cells, efficiency is a key driver to reduce the cost of solar energy. There are several materials systems being explored to achieve high efficiency at low cost. Polman
et al.
comprehensively and systematically review the leading candidate materials, present the limitations of each system, and analyze how these limitations can be overcome and overall cell performance improved.

Science
, this issue p.
10.1126/science.aad4424
Crystallographic capture of a radical
S
-adenosylmethionine enzyme in the act of modifying tRNA
Authors: Schwalm Erica L. , Grove Tyler L. , Booker Squire J. , Boal Amie K.
Published: April 2016

An RNA methylase caught in the act

RNA methylation is important in RNA function and in antibiotic resistance. The RNA methylase RlmN is a dual-specificity enzyme that can act on ribosomal and transfer RNA (tRNA). RlmN is a radical S-adenosylmethionine (SAM) enzyme, which produces a protein/RNA cross-linked intermediate. Schwalm
et al.
determined the structure of RlmN cross-linked to a tRNA substrate and found that the enzyme recognizes the overall shape of the tRNA. Then it remodels the anticodon region to access the base that it methylates. The remodeling activity is likely to be key to the enzyme's dual specificity.

Science
, this issue p.
309
Belowground carbon trade among tall trees in a temperate forest
Authors: Klein Tamir , Siegwolf Rolf T. W. , Körner Christian
Published: April 2016

Carbon trading between adult trees

Competition between individual plants for resources is well known, but sharing of resources may also occur. Klein
et al.
observed tree-to-tree carbon shuttling between roots of tall trees in a mixed temperate forest in Switzerland (see the Perspective by van der Heijden). By applying stable carbon isotope labeling to individual tree canopies, they show that up to 40% of the carbon in the fine roots of one individual may be derived from photosynthetic products of a neighbor. Carbon transfer of this kind, mediated by plant-associated fungi, or mycorrhizae, in the soil, has been reported on a smaller scale in seedlings, but not before in trees.

Science
, this issue p.
342
; see also p.
290
Architecture of the symmetric core of the nuclear pore
Authors: Lin Daniel H. , Stuwe Tobias , Schilbach Sandra , Rundlet Emily J. , Perriches Thibaud , Mobbs George , Fan Yanbin , Thierbach Karsten , Huber Ferdinand M. , Collins Leslie N. , Davenport Andrew M. , Jeon Young E. , Hoelz André
Published: April 2016

Blueprint for a macromolecular machine

Nuclear pore complexes (NPCs) consist of around 1000 protein subunits, are embedded in the membrane that surrounds the nucleus, and regulate transport between the nucleus and the cytoplasm. Although the overall shape of NPCs is known, the details of this macromolecular complex have been obscure. Now, Lin
et al.
have reconstituted the pore components, determined the interactions between them, and fitted them into a tomographic reconstruction. Kosinski
et al.
have provided an architectural map of the inner ring of the pore.

Science
, this issue pp.
10.1126/science.aaf1015
and
363
Nuclear quantum effects of hydrogen bonds probed by tip-enhanced inelastic electron tunneling
Authors: Guo Jing , Lü Jing-Tao , Feng Yexin , Chen Ji , Peng Jinbo , Lin Zeren , Meng Xiangzhi , Wang Zhichang , Li Xin-Zheng , Wang En-Ge , Jiang Ying
Published: April 2016

Quantum effects in single hydrogen bonds

Hydrogen bonds are a combination of electrostatics with a nuclear quantum contribution arising from the light mass of hydrogen nuclei. However, the quantum states of hydrogen nuclei are extremely sensitive to coupling with local environments, and these effects are broadened and averaged with conventional spectroscopic or diffraction techniques. Guo
et al.
show that quantum effects change the strength of individual hydrogen bonds in water layers adsorbed on a salt surface. These effects are revealed in inelastic tunneling spectra obtained with a chlorine-terminated scanning tunneling microscope tip.

Science
, this issue p.
321
Toward single-atom memory
Authors: Khajetoorians Alexander Ako , Heinrich Andreas J.
Published: April 2016

Single holmium atoms can be used as a stable magnetic memory

[Also see Report by

Donati
et al.

]
Tackling mine wastes
Authors: Hudson-Edwards Karen
Published: April 2016

Global collaboration is needed to mitigate the environmental impacts of mine wastes
The straight dope on the scope of chemical reactions
Authors: Gensch T. , Glorius F.
Published: April 2016

Complementary strategies are needed for the analysis and reporting of synthetic methods
A scaffold immune microenvironment
Authors: Badylak Stephen F.
Published: April 2016

Local immune cells create conditions that support tissue regeneration

[Also see Report by

Sadtler
et al.

]
Comparison of Matrix-Based and Filter Paper-Based Systems for Transport of Plasma for HIV-1 RNA Quantification and Amplicon Preparation for Genotyping
Authors: Levine Molly , Beck Ingrid , Styrchak Sheila , Pepper Gregory , Frenkel Lisa
Published: April 2016

Two ambient-temperature, dry plasma transport systems, ViveST tubes and RNASoundRNA sampling cards, and two extraction methods were compared to frozen plasma for HIV-1 RNA recovery. Significant RNA loss occurred: ViveST+MiniMag > ViveST+QIAamp > RNASound+QIAamp. RNA loss and low specimen volumes may affect the sensitivity of genotyping specimens with HIV-1 RNA of <4.70 log10copies/ml.
Endpoint Quaking-Induced Conversion: a Sensitive, Specific, and High-Throughput Method for Antemortem Diagnosis of Creutzfeldt-Jacob Disease
Authors: Cheng Keding , Vendramelli Robert , Sloan Angela , Waitt Brooks , Podhorodecki Lisa , Godal Debra , Knox J. David
Published: April 2016

The Prion Laboratory Section of the Public Health Agency of Canada supports heath care professionals dealing with patients suspected to have Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (CJD) by testing cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) for protein markers of CJD. To better serve Canadian diagnostic requirements, a quaking-induced conversion (QuIC)-based assay has been added to the test panel. The QuIC tests exploit the ability of disease-associated prion protein, found in the CSF of a majority of CJD patients, to convert a recombinant prion protein (rPrP) into detectable amounts of a misfolded, aggregated form of rPrP. The rPrP aggregates interact with a specific dye, causing a measurable change in the dye's fluorescence emission spectrum. Optimal test and analysis parameters were empirically determined. Taking both practical and performance considerations into account, an endpoint QuIC (EP-QuIC) configuration was chosen. EP-QuIC uses a thermo-mixer to perform the shaking necessary to produce the quaking-induced conversions. Fluorescence readings are obtained from a microwell fluorescence reader only at the beginning and the end of EP-QuIC reactions. Samples for which the relative fluorescence unit ratio between the initial and final readings represent a ≥4 increase in signal intensity in at least two of the three replicates are classified as positive. A retrospective analysis of 91 CSF samples that included 45 confirmed cases of CJD and 46 non-CJD cases was used to estimate the performance characteristics of the EP-QuIC assay. The diagnostic sensitivity and specificity of the EP-QuIC test of this set of samples were 98 and 91%, respectively.
Multicenter Evaluation of Whole-Blood Epstein-Barr Viral Load Standardization Using the WHO International Standard
Authors: Semenova Touyana , Lupo Julien , Alain Sophie , Perrin-Confort Gwladys , Grossi Laurence , Dimier Julie , Epaulard Olivier , Morand Patrice , Germi Raphaële
Published: April 2016

The first WHO international standard for Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) (WHO EBV standard) for nucleic acid amplification technology (NAT)-based assays was commercialized in January 2012 by the National Institute for Biological Standards and Control. In the study reported here, we compared whole-blood EBV DNA load (EDL) results from 12 French laboratories for seven samples (Quality Controls for Molecular Diagnostics 2013 proficiency panel) in order to determine whether expression in international units reduces interlaboratory variability in whole-blood EDLs. Each testing laboratory used a conversion factor to convert EDL results from copies per milliliter to international units per milliliter. This conversion factor was calculated from the WHO EBV standard according to the protocol described in this study (nine laboratories) or the recommendations of the PCR kit suppliers (three laboratories). The interlaboratory variability in whole-blood EDL results was reduced after standardization of the results using the WHO EBV standard. For the seven samples tested, standard deviations (SD) ranged from 0.41 to 0.55 when the results were expressed in log copies per milliliter, whereas the SD ranged from 0.17 to 0.32 when results were given in log international units per milliliter. Comparing the variance data (
F
test), we showed that the dispersion of whole-blood EDL results was significantly lower when they were expressed in log international units per milliliter (
P
< 0.001 for six of seven samples and
P
< 0.05 for one sample with a low mean EDL of 2.62 log IU/ml). This study showed that the use of the WHO EBV standard could improve the homogeneity of whole-blood EDL results between laboratories as well as the monitoring of patients at high risk of posttransplant lymphoproliferative disorders or other EBV-associated diseases.