bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Key knowledge management processes for innovation: a systematic literature review
Authors: Costa Vítor , Monteiro Samuel
Published: August 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to review current literature on knowledge management processes considering the relationship between the key knowledge processes of acquisition, sharing, storage, codification, creation, application and different types of innovation, through a systematic literature review.

Design/methodology/approach

This study follows systematic review protocols for management and organisational sciences and analyses 45 full papers on knowledge management processes and innovation.

Findings

Results not only show that all knowledge processes can directly support innovation but also that other organisational variables (e.g. organisational learning, absorptive capacity) mediate this relationship. Moreover, knowledge creation and knowledge application appear as two central processes through which knowledge acquisition, sharing, codification and storage influence innovation. Knowledge acquisition and knowledge sharing are the most frequently studied knowledge processes. The majority of the sample papers present traditional innovation definitions (product vs process, radical vs incremental and technical vs administrative). However, organisational innovation, innovation capability and innovation performance approaches emerge from the papers’ analysis.

Research limitations/implications

The present review includes major scientific papers; however, the search is limited to the Web of ScienceTM platform.

Originality/value

This literature review analyses high-quality, peer-reviewed papers, following a systematic methodology that can be tested and updated. Papers were divided based upon the knowledge process(es) being analysed and the innovation type/approach, providing a twofold contribution to knowledge management and innovation literature.
Antipodean agricultural and resource economics at 60: climate change policy and energy transition
Authors: Fisher Brian S.
Published: August 2016

The Australian and New Zealand agricultural and resource economics profession has made a significant contribution in the field of climate policy and analysis of the energy sector. Much of this contribution has been based on quantitative economic modelling which had its roots in the earlier computable general equilibrium modelling on domestic policy and trade in which the profession was heavily involved from the 1970s onwards. By far the largest share of model development and analysis has been sponsored by government and conducted in the public sector, but in more recent years, there has been some shift into the private sector. However, the trend to the use of much more complex integrated assessment models in assessing the impacts of climate change and responses to new policy instruments raises the issue of whether more government support of quantitative modelling will be required in future.
Effects of Intradialytic Resistance Exercise on Protein Energy Wasting, Physical Performance and Physical Activity in Ambulatory Patients on Dialysis: A Single‐Center Preliminary Study in a Japanese Dialysis Facility
Authors: Saitoh Masakazu , Ogawa Masumi , Dos Santos Marcelo Rodrigues , Kondo Hisae , Suga Kiichi , Itoh Haruki , Tabata Yoichiro
Published: August 2016

Patients under hemodialysis present protein‐energy wasting (PEW), which is related with higher mortality rates. The study aimed to determine whether intradialytic resistance exercise training could improve physical performance, physical activity, and PEW in hemodialysis patients. In single center study, 75 hemodialysis patients were enrolled in an intradialytic resistance exercise training consisting of 20 min of adapted leg press, with a gymnastic ball, 3 days/week, during 9 months on the same day of hemodialysis therapy. Physical performance by short physical performance battery (SPPB), physical activity by life space assessment (LSA), and PEW score based on the nomenclature proposed by the International Society of Renal Nutrition and Metabolism in 2008 were assessed at baseline and after 9 months. Intradialytic resistance exercise training significantly improved SPPB score, LSA score, and PEW score (all, P < 0.05). In addition, intradialytic resistance exercise training improved SPPB score in patients with moderate and severe PEW subgroups (P < 0.05), associated with reduced prevalence of the patients with moderate to severe PEW (53% vs. 36%, P < 0.05). Intradialytic resistance exercise training was safe and effective to improve physical performance, physical activity, and PEW in hemodialysis patients.
Evaluation of a whole‐blood chemiluminescent immunoassay of IFN‐γ, IP‐10, and MCP‐1 for diagnosis of active pulmonary tuberculosis and tuberculous pleurisy patients
Authors: Liang Yan , Wang Ying , Li Hang , Yang Yourong , Liu Jianyang , Yu Ting , Wu Xueqiong
Published: August 2016

The study explored the use of IP‐10, MCP‐1, and IFN‐γ as biomarkers to improve the diagnoses of active pulmonary tuberculosis and tuberculous pleurisy. We enrolled 267 individuals, including 134 TB patients, 93 patients with non‐tuberculous pulmonary diseases, and 40 healthy controls. Whole bloods were stimulated in vitro with rCFP‐10/ESAT‐6 protein antigen of Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The levels of IFN‐γ, IP‐10, and MCP‐1 in cultured supernatants of whole bloods were detected by a chemiluminescence immunoassay. A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was drawn to determine the cutoff value for diagnosing TB and to evaluate the diagnostic efficacies of the IFN‐γ, IP‐10, and MCP‐1 for TB. The antigen‐specific release of each cytokine, IFN‐γ, IP‐10, and MCP‐1, was significantly higher in the TB groups than in either the non‐tuberculous pulmonary disease group (p < 0.001) or the healthy control group (p < 0.001). The ROC curves indicated cutoff values for IFN‐γ, IP‐10, and MCP‐1 at 147.8, 160.4, and 496.4 pg/mL, respectively. The sensitivity, specificity, PPV, NPV, and diagnostic efficiency for IFN‐γ were 85.8%, 70.7%, 74.7%, 83.2%, and 78.3%, respectively; for IP‐10 were 72.4%, 75.9%, 75.2%, 73.2%, and 74.2%, respectively; and for MCP‐1 were 90.3%, 97.0%, 96.8%, 90.8%, and 93.6%, respectively. IFN‐γ combined MCP‐1 improved the sensitivity to 97.8% compared with IFN‐γ (p < 0.001). Our findings indicate high sensitivity and specificity of MCP‐1 as novel biomarkers for the diagnosis of active pulmonary tuberculosis and tuberculous pleurisy.
Systematic review and meta‐analysis of clinical outcomes of early caffeine therapy in preterm neonates
Authors: Kua Kok Pim , Lee Shaun Wen Huey
Published: August 2016

Aims

This study evaluated the therapeutic outcomes of early versus late caffeine therapy in preterm neonates.

Methods

We performed a systematic literature search in PubMed, Embase, CINAHL and CENTRAL from inception to 30 June 2016 to identify studies investigating the use of early caffeine therapy (initiated at less than 3 days of life) in preterm infants. Effect estimates were combined using random‐effects meta‐analysis. The primary outcomes for this study were bronchopulmonary dysplasia and mortality.

Results

The initial search found 4066 citations, of which 14 studies enrolling a total of 64 438 participants were included. The time of initiation of early caffeine therapy varied from the first 2 h to 3 days postnatal. Early caffeine therapy reduced the risk of bronchopulmonary dysplasia in both cohort studies (RR: 0.80, 95% CI: 0.66 to 0.96) and randomized controlled trials (RR: 0.67, 95% CI: 0.56 to 0.81). In cohort studies, neonates treated early with caffeine also showed decreased risks of patent ductus arteriosus, brain injury, retinopathy of prematurity and postnatal steroid use. However, the mortality rate was increased.

Conclusions

The findings suggest that early caffeine therapy is associated with reduced incidence of bronchopulmonary dysplasia and may help decrease the burden of morbidities in preterm infants.
Role of the thymus in autoimmune myasthenia gravis
Authors: Berrih‐Aknin Sonia
Published: August 2016

Thymic pathologies are frequently associated with myasthenia gravis. Although thymoma is found in both men and women mostly after the age of 40 years, thymic follicular hyperplasia is very common in young women. Thymomas are associated with high autoreactivity and reduced efficiency of tolerance mechanisms, at least partially due to the absence of functional medullary epithelial cells. In follicular hyperplasia, the presence of ectopic germinal centers is evocative of what is described in other autoimmune disorders, where germinal centers are found in the inflamed tissues. The grade of follicular hyperplasia is correlated with the serum level of anti‐acetylcholine receptor (AChR) antibody, suggesting that the thymic hyperplasia contributes to the production of anti‐AChR antibodies. Cellular and molecular analysis of thymic follicular hyperplasia shows changes in the Th1/Th17/regulatory T cell balance, with increased expression of Th1 and Th17 cytokines, and defective function of regulatory T cells. Follicular hyperplasia is also characterized by active neo‐angiogenesis, and increased chemokine synthesis, namely CXCL13 and CCL21, which play a major role in the generation of germinal centers. This inflammatory environment recruits peripheral B cells, and together with the overexpression of the autoantigen could specifically lead to the anti‐AChR autoimmune response. The individual predisposing background includes gene polymorphism, but also hormones, vitamin D level and other environmental components. Overall, the functional and morphological changes observed in the thymus, the improvement of patients after thymectomy, and the correlation between the degree of follicular hyperplasia and the level of anti‐AChR antibodies suggest a causal relationship between thymic pathology and MG.
Self‐reported hand eczema among dental workers in Japan – a cross‐sectional study
Authors: Minamoto Keiko , Watanabe Takeshi , Diepgen Thomas L.
Published: August 2016

Background

Dental workers are considered to have a high risk of developing occupational hand eczema.

Objectives

To estimate the prevalence of work‐related hand eczema and associated risk factors in dental workers in Japan.

Methods

A self‐administered questionnaire was sent by mail to all dental clinics of Kumamoto City, Japan. In addition, patch testing with 24 dentistry‐related allergens was offered.

Results

In total, 46.4% of dental workers (n = 528: response 31.4%, based on 97 clinics) reported a lifetime history of chronic hand eczema. The 1‐year prevalence was 36.2%. According to logistic regression analysis, the most important risk factors for the 1‐year prevalence were a personal history of atopic dermatitis [odds ratio (OR) 4.7, 95% confidence interval (CI): 2.2–8.8], asthma and/or allergic rhinitis (OR 2.0, 95%CI: 1.3–3.0), dry skin (OR 1.7, 95%CI: 1.1–2.7), shorter duration of work (OR 2.0, 95%CI: 1.2–3.5 for up to 10 years versus >20 years), and washing hands >10 times per day (OR 1.6, 95%CI: 1.0–2.5). Fifty‐four workers were patch tested. Rubber chemicals and acrylates were the most frequent occupationally relevant contact allergens.

Conclusions

Dental workers in Japan have a high prevalence of hand eczema. Health education to prevent hand eczema and more frequent patch testing are needed.
Remittances and Current Account Dynamics
Authors: Lartey Emmanuel K. K.
Published: August 2016

This paper examines the impact of remittances on current account dynamics under alternative monetary and exchange rate policies. The main findings suggest that altruistic remittances precipitate a current account deficit under a fixed exchange rate regime, whereas a surplus is realized when monetary policy follows a Taylor‐type rule. Furthermore, self‐interest remittances are associated with a current account surplus under a Taylor rule that manages real exchange rate variability or a Taylor rule with aggressive nontradeable inflation targeting.
The Impact of Financial Crises on the Finance–Growth Relationship: A European Perspective
Authors: Haiss Peter , Juvan Hannes , Mahlberg Bernhard
Published: August 2016

Rousseau and Wachtel (2011) (Rousseau, P., Wachtel, P., 2011, ‘What is Happening to the Impact of Financial Deepening on Economic Growth?’ Economic Inquiry, 49(1), pp. 276–288) find a weakening effect of bank finance on growth for more recent periods in replicating King and Levine () (King, R. G., Levine, R., 1993, ‘Finance and Growth: Schumpeter Might Be Right’, The Quarterly Journal of Economics, 108, pp. 717–737) in a heterogeneous sample up to 2004. We contribute by re‐examining this finding for a focused set of 26 European countries up to 2009. In the second step, we introduce an aggregated finance variable into the model which accounts for aggregate credit, bond and stock markets. We reconfirm a weakening effect of finance on growth, which is persistent even when dummy variables are added to control for financial crises. The development of European financial markets seems to have not only decoupled from the real sector but also to exert an inverted impact on growth. We attribute our finding to structural change between bank‐ and market‐driven setup, threshold effects and the procyclical nature of financial markets.
Minority‐Owned Banks and Bank Failures After the Financial Collapse
Authors: Kashian Russell , Drago Robert
Published: August 2016

Minority‐owned banks (MOBs) are small banks, which often serve disadvantaged communities of color, and failed at high rates after the financial collapse. The U.S. Census and FDIC data are used to analyse bank failures for 2009–2014, with predictors from 2008, using logistic regression for estimation. Failure rates were high among Black and Asian American–owned banks; these are related to bank failures in African American communities and concentration in commercial real estate lending; policy responses to the collapse were generally ineffective for small banks. We conclude that policy support for MOBs operating in disadvantaged communities of color is warranted.
Extreme Dependence under Uncertainty: an application to Stock, Currency and Oil Markets
Authors: Bekiros Stelios , Uddin Gazi Salah
Published: August 2016

We explore the impact of uncertainty on financial markets in the aftermath of the global financial crisis. In particular, we investigate the temporal dynamics of the dependence structure of stock, currency and oil markets in the United States using a nonparametric copula approach. Policy uncertainty is modeled via the EPU index of Baker et al. (). We find evidence of a pronounced extreme tail asymmetric interrelationship between the crude oil market and economic uncertainty.
Acellular dermal matrix reduces capsule formation in two‐stage breast reconstruction
Authors: Chopra Karan , Buckingham Bryan , Matthews Jamil , Sabino Jennifer , Tadisina Kashyap K , Silverman Ronald P , Goldberg Nelson H , Slezak Sheri , Singh Devinder P
Published: August 2016

Acellular dermal matrix (ADM) is commonly employed to create an inferior pocket for the tissue expander in two‐stage breast reconstruction. The authors sought to determine whether placement of ADM during the first stage of reconstruction decreases the amount of capsule formation at implant exchange. Patients who underwent mastectomy and tissue expander reconstruction were included in this study. Two biopsies were obtained at the time of implant exchange, one from the pocket adjacent to the ADM and the other from the area adjacent to the pectoralis muscle. Pathology analysis was performed on each sample. Ten patients underwent immediate breast reconstruction with Alloderm during the 3‐month study period. Capsule thickness was significantly greater in the areas where the expander was in direct contact with the pectoralis muscle (782 ± 194 µm) compared to those in contact with human acellular dermal matrix (hADM) (47·91 ± 110·82 µm; P < 0·05). Analysis of the sub‐pectoral capsule demonstrated diffuse deposition of collagen, neutrophils, contractile myofibroblasts and synovia‐like metaplasia, characteristic of a foreign body response. Conversely, within the inferior pocket where the hADM was in direct contact with the expander, we noted migration of host epithelial cells, fibroblasts, mesenchymal cells and angiogenesis, indicating host tissue regeneration. Acellular dermal matrix, when placed at the first stage of breast reconstruction, significantly reduces thickness and inflammatory character of the capsule in comparison to the patient's native tissue.
Effect of timing of count events on estimates of sea lice abundance and interpretation of effectiveness following bath treatments
Authors: Gautam R , Vanderstichel R , Boerlage A S , Revie C W , Hammell K L
Published: August 2016

Effectiveness of sea lice bath treatment is often assessed by comparing pre‐ and post‐treatment counts. However, in practice, the post‐treatment counting window varies from the day of treatment to several days after treatment. In this study, we assess the effect of post‐treatment lag time on sea lice abundance estimates after chemical bath treatment using data from the sea lice data management program (Fish‐iTrends) between 2010 and 2014. Data on two life stages, (i) adult female (AF) and (ii) pre‐adult and adult male (PAAM), were aggregated at the cage level and log‐transformed. Average sea lice counts by post‐treatment lag time were computed for AF and PAAM and compared relative to treatment day, using linear mixed models. There were 720 observations (treatment events) that uniquely matched pre‐ and post‐treatment counts from 53 farms. Lag time had a significant effect on the estimated sea lice abundance, which was influenced by season and pre‐treatment sea lice levels. During summer, sea lice were at a minimum when counted 1 day post‐treatment irrespective of pre‐treatment sea lice levels, whereas in the spring and autumn, low levels were observed for PAAM over a longer interval of time, provided the pre‐treatment sea lice levels were >5–10.
A novel use of social media to evaluate the occurrence of skin lesions affecting wild dusky grouper, Epinephelus marginatus (Lowe, 1834), in Libyan coastal waters
Authors: Rizgalla J , Shinn A P , Ferguson H W , Paladini G , Jayasuriya N S , Bron J E
Published: August 2016

The social media network Facebook™ was used to gather information on the occurrence and geographical distribution of dusky grouper dermatitis, a skin lesion affecting the dusky grouper, Epinephelus marginatus. Dusky grouper are common targets for spear fishermen in the Mediterranean and by monitoring spearfishing activity in Libyan waters, it was possible to document skin lesions from their entries on Facebook. Thirty‐two Facebook accounts and 8 Facebook groups posting from 23 Libyan coastal cities provided a retrospective observational data set comprising a total of 382 images of dusky grouper caught by spearfishing between December 2011 and December 2015. Skin lesions were observable on 57/362 fish, for which images were of sufficient quality for analysis, giving a minimal prevalence for lesions of 15.75%. Only dusky grouper exceeding an estimated 40 cm total length exhibited lesions. The ability to collect useful data about the occurrence and geographical distribution of pathological conditions affecting wild fish using social media networks demonstrates their potential utility as a tool to support epidemiological studies and monitor the health of populations of aquatic animals. To our knowledge, this represents the first time that such an approach has been applied for assessing health in a wild population of fish.
Aluminium chloride‐induced toxicity in zebrafish larvae
Authors: Monaco A , Grimaldi M C , Ferrandino I
Published: August 2016

Embryos at shield stage and larvae at protruding mouth stage were exposed to different concentrations of aluminium chloride (AlCl3) for 72 h with the purpose to analyse their phenotype and lethality. After 24, 48 and 72 h of treatment, higher toxicity of the metal was observed on larvae with minimal lethal concentration of 0.25, 0.20 and 0.08 mm, respectively, while for embryos the corresponding values were 40, 25 and 16 mm. We observed pericardial oedema and alteration of heart rate in 50% of larvae after 48 h of exposure to 100 μm. In larvae exposed to the same concentration, there was also a neurological injury at the level of glial cells, with the number of glial fibrillary acidic protein‐positive cells being significantly reduced. This study confirms the toxic nature of this metal and shows that aluminium could also interestingly represent a cardiotoxin in addition to its neurotoxic ability.
Effects of Treatment with 1‐Methylcyclopropene and Clo2 on the Postharvest Shelf‐Life and Physiological Quality of Mulberry Fruit (Morus alba L.)
Authors: Fang Yin , Ren Zi‐Xu , Chen Cheng , Jin Chao , Thasma Raman Sivakumar , Palani Gounder Ganeshan Ajay Krishna , Jia Jun‐Qiang , Gui Zhong‐Zheng
Published: August 2016

In this paper, we examined the use of 1‐methylcyclopropene (1‐MCP) and ClO2 as safe and effective preservative agents for mulberries. Individual treatment of 1 g/m3 1‐MCP or ClO2 at 20 g/m3 significantly delayed fruit senescence and did not affect sensory qualities. Combined treatment of 1 g/m3 1‐MCP and 12 g/m3 ClO2 yielded the lowest mildew rate, and the fruits remained plump and bright with bright green stalks on the third day. In contrast, most of the mulberry fruits of the control group were moldy on the second day, with no edible value. Physiological quality studies showed that combined treatment of 1‐MCP and ClO2 could effectively maintain the nutritive qualities, such as ascorbic acid and polysaccharide contents and titratable acidity, and delay malondialdehyde accumulation. Thus, combined treatment of 1‐MCP and ClO2 prolonged the shelf‐life of mulberries for about 3 days. Our finding is of great value to the horticulture and fruit postharvest.

Practical Applications

Current methods used for fruit and vegetable preservation might leave harmful chemical residues. 1‐Methylcyclopropene (1‐MCP) has been found to effectively regulate fruit maturation and prolong fruit shelf‐life, and ClO2 is a strong oxidant that leaves no harmful substances or odor residuals after treatment. We show that combined treatment of 1 g/m3 1‐MCP and 12 g/m3 ClO2 can maintain the mulberry fruit's exterior qualities and significantly reduce the rotting rate and weight loss ratio. We demonstrate the applicability of the combined treatment of (1‐MCP) and ClO2 to prolong the shelf‐life of mulberries for about 3 days. Our finding is of great value to the horticulture and postharvest and industry because mulberry fruit has a very low shelf‐life. Its maturation period is extremely short, rendering its storage, transportation, and sale very difficult.
Prediction Models for Textural Properties of Puffed Rice Starch Product by Relative Crystallinity
Authors: Jiamjariyatam Rossaporn , Kongpensook Varapha , Pradipasena Pasawadee
Published: August 2016

This research aimed to determine the textural attributes of fried puffed rice starch products by the relative crystallinity (RC) of pellets (RCp). Three factors, amylose content (AC), aging time and cooling rate were varied to obtain various levels of RCp. The different textural characteristics of the puffed rice products were evaluated by instrumental and descriptive sensory analysis. The higher AC and longer aging time resulted in higher RCp. Pellets with higher RCp had smaller and denser air cell structures and lower expansion, resulting in higher crispness, hardness and fracturability. High correlation between the RCp and the instrumental and the sensory texture characteristics were determined and regression models (with R2 > 0.80) were established. These models can be used to predict some properties of puffed products, such as crispness, hardness, and brittleness. Panelists rated samples with an AC of 9% (in a range of 2.8–3.7% RCp) highest in appearance and texture scores.

Practical Applications

The RCp and textural properties of puffed products can be affected by many factors including ingredients and process parameters. This study provides a better understanding of both the textural characteristics of puffed rice starch products using sensory and instrumental approaches, but also their correlations. The relationship between the RCp and sensory evaluation data can be applied for the prediction of puffing quality.
Modified body adiposity index for body fat estimation in severe obesity
Authors: Bernhard A. B. , Scabim V. M. , Serafim M. P. , Gadducci A. V. , Santo M. A. , de Cleva R.
Published: August 2016

Background

The body adiposity index (BAI) comprises a simple method for estimating body fat (BF) that needs to be validated in patients with severe obesity. The present study aimed to determine BAI accuracy with respect to the determination BF in patients with severe obesity.

Methods

A cross‐sectional prospective study comparing two methods for BF estimation was conducted in 433 patients with severe obesity between August 2012 to December 2014. BF was estimated by bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) with specific equations developed for BF estimation in patients with severe obesity and BAI. The BF estimation in 240 patients with severe obesity (Group 1: G1) was used to evaluate BAI limitations and to develop a specific equation in this population. The new equation proposed was validated in another 158 patients with severe obesity (Group 2: G2).

Results

There was a significant difference between BF determination by BIA and BAI (P = 0.039). The mean (SD) BF in G1 was 52.3% (6.1%) determined by BIA and 51.6% (8.1%) determined by BAI. Sex, waist–hip ratio (WHR) and obesity grade determined significant errors on BF estimation by BAI. A new equation (modified body adiposity index; MBAI) was developed by linear regression to minimise these errors [MBAI% = 23.6 + 0.5 × (BAI); add 2.2 if body mass index ≥ 50 kg m–2 and 2.4 if WHR ≥ 1.05]. The new equation reduced the difference [1.2% (5.9%), P < 0.001 to 0.4% (4.12%), P = 0.315] and improved the correlation (0.6–0.7) between methods.

Conclusions

BAI present significant limitations in severe obesity and MBAI was effective for BF estimation in this population.
PTH(1‐34) effects on repairing experimentally drilled holes in rat femur: novel aspects – qualitative vs. quantitative improvement of osteogenesis
Authors: Cavani Francesco , Ferretti Marzia , Smargiassi Alberto , Palumbo Carla
Published: August 2016

The timetable of effects on bone repair of the active fraction‐parathyroid hormone, PTH(1‐34), was analytically investigated from the morphometric viewpoint in 3‐month‐old male Sprague‐Dawley rats, whose femurs were drilled at mid‐diaphyseal level (transcortical holes). The animals were divided into groups with/without PTH(1‐34) administration, and sacrificed at different times (10, 28, 45 days after surgery). The observations reported here need to be framed in the context of our previous investigations regarding bone histogenesis (Ferretti et al. Anat Embryol. 2002; 206: 21–29) in which we demonstrated the occurrence of two successive bone‐forming processes during both skeletal organogenesis and bone repair, i.e. static and dynamic osteogenesis: the former (due to stationary osteoblasts, haphazardly grouped in cords) producing preliminary bad quality trabecular bone, the latter (due to typical polarized osteoblasts organized in ordered movable laminae) producing mechanically valid bone tissue. The primary function of static osteogenesis is to provide a rigid scaffold containing osteocytes (i.e. mechano‐sensors) for osteoblast laminae acting in dynamic osteogenesis. In the present work, histomorphometric analysis revealed that, already 10 days after drilling, despite the holes being temporarily filled by the same amount of newly formed trabecular bone by static osteogenesis independently of the treatment, the extent of the surface of movable osteoblast‐laminae (covering the trabecular surface) was statistically higher in animals submitted to PTH(1‐34) administration than in control ones; this datum strongly suggests the effect of PTH(1‐34) alone in anticipating the occurrence of dynamic osteogenesis involved in the production of good quality bone (with more ordered collagen texture) more suitable for loading. This study could be crucial in further translational clinical research in humans for defining the best therapeutic strategies to be applied in recovering severe skeletal lesions, particularly as regards the time of PTH(1‐34) administration.
Medical‐surgical nurses' experiences as first responders during deterioration events: a qualitative study
Authors: Hart Patricia L. , Spiva LeeAnna , Dolly Lonnie , Lang‐Coleman Kristen , Prince‐Williams Nadia
Published: August 2016

Aim and objective

To explore and understand the experiences of medical‐surgical nurses as first responders during clinical deterioration events.

Background

Nurses are key players in identifying and responding to deterioration events to escalate the level of care essential to address specific needs of patients. Delays in recognising signs and symptoms of patient deterioration and activation of Rapid Response Teams have been linked to a lack of nontechnical skills (leadership, teamwork, situational awareness) resulting in increased patient morbidity and mortality.

Design

A descriptive, qualitative approach was used.

Methods

A purposive sample of 28 medical‐surgical nurses was recruited and interviewed from an integrated healthcare system located in the USA. Interviews were conducted from October 2014–February 2015. Interviews were audio recorded and transcribed verbatim. Transcripts were entered into MaxQDA. The constant comparative method was used for data analysis.

Results

Three patterns emerged from the data analysis: Recognising and Responding to the Event, Managing the Event and Challenges Encountered during the Event. From the patterns, seven themes emerged. Themes for pattern one, Recognising and Responding, were early warning signs, continuity in patient care assignments and intuition. Themes for pattern two, Managing the Event, were cognitive, technical and behavioural skills. The theme for pattern three, Challenges Encountered during the Event, was work environment complexity.

Conclusion

Listening to the stories of medical‐surgical nurses provided insight into how they recognised and managed patients experiencing clinical deterioration events. Furthermore, insight into the challenges that medical‐surgical nurses encountered in caring for deteriorating patients were identified.

Relevance to clinical practice

Implication for practice in the areas of continuity of patient assignments, formal clinical deterioration education, work environment and team collaboration and communication was presented.
Interprofessional trust in emergency department – as experienced by nurses in charge and doctors on call
Authors: Friberg Klara , Husebø Sissel Eikeland , Olsen Øystein Evjen , Sætre Hansen Britt
Published: August 2016

Aims and objectives

The aim of this study was to describe that which characterises interprofessional trust in a Norwegian emergency department, as expressed by nurses in charge and doctors on call.

Background

Interprofessional trust requires knowledge of and skills in interprofessional collaboration. It also requires established trust in fellow collaborators, as well as in the work environment and in the more comprehensive system in which the work is conducted. Nurses in charge and doctors on call who collaborate in the context of an emergency department do so under changing conditions in terms of staff composition and work load.

Design

The study was designed in a qualitative, inductive and sequential manner.

Method

Data were collected from September–November 2013 through four focus group interviews and was analysed by means of qualitative content analysis.

Results

The data revealed two themes that were characteristic of interprofessional trust: ‘having relational knowledge’ and ‘being part of a context’. Together, the themes can be understood as equally important to contextual collaboration. A model of interprofessional trust between an individual level and system level was developed from the results.

Conclusion

The study indicates that interprofessional trust is a changeable phenomenon that has great impact on the possibility for development at an individual level and at a more abstract system level.

Relevance to clinical practice

Interprofessional trust can be improved by focusing on trust‐building activities between staff at the individual level and between staff and organisation at the system level. Supportive activities such as continuous interprofessional education are suggested as valuable to the development and maintenance of trust.
An Investigation of the Short‐Run and Long‐Run Stock Returns Surrounding Insurer Rating Changes
Authors: Chen Leon , Gaver Jennifer J. , Pottier Steven W.
Published: August 2016

We find that stock returns move in the direction of insurer rating changes in the 12‐month period prior to the announcement. There is an additional stock price response following the announcement of a downgrade, but no response to upgrade announcements. The reaction to a downgrade is more pronounced when it involves a smaller insurer, when it spans multiple levels, or when it is a threshold downgrade. Returns are significantly more negative during the 12 months leading up to a downgrade announcement during the financial crisis (2008 and 2009) compared to other sample years.
Standard concentration infusions in paediatric intensive care: the clinical approach
Authors: Perkins Joanne , Aguado-Lorenzo Virginia , Arenas-Lopez Sara
Published: August 2016

The use of standard concentrations of intravenous infusions has been advocated by international organisations to increase intravenous medication safety in paediatric and neonatal critical care. However, there is no guidance on how to identify and implement these infusions leading to great interunit variability.

Objective

To identify the most appropriate clinical concentrations required by our paediatric intensive care unit (PICU) population with regard to accuracy of delivery and overall fluid allowance.

Methods

Firstly a matrix was used to balance the concentration, dose and infusion volume (weight range 1.5–50 kg). Results were further refined considering: patient fluid allowance based on fluid volume targets, infusion pump accuracy and challenging each infusion against clinical scenarios requiring administration of multiple drug infusions found in PICU. Consideration was given to the standard concentrations routinely used in adults, in order to assess whether alignment with paediatrics was possible for some of the concentrations proposed. Finally a risk assessment of the infusions was conducted using the NPSA 20 tool.

Key findings

Twenty-five drugs identified as the most commonly used intravenous infusions in the unit. For the majority of the medicines, three weight bands of standard concentrations were necessary to cover the children's weight ranges and kept within predefined fluid requirements and accuracy of delivery.

Conclusions

This work shows a patient focused systematic approach for defining and evaluating standardised concentrations in intensive care children.
A New Multivariate Nonlinear Time Series Model for Portfolio Risk Measurement: The Threshold Copula‐Based TAR Approach
Authors: Wong Shiu Fung , Tong Howell , Siu Tak Kuen , Lu Zudi
Published: August 2016

We propose a threshold copula‐based nonlinear time series model for evaluating quantitative risk measures for financial portfolios with a flexible structure to incorporate nonlinearities in both univariate (component) time series and their dependent structure. We incorporate different dependent structures of asset returns over different market regimes, which are manifested in their price levels. We estimate the model parameters by a two‐stage maximum likelihood method. Real financial data and appropriate statistical tests are used to illustrate the efficacy of the proposed model. Simulated results for sampling distribution of parameters estimates are given. Empirical results suggest that the proposed model leads to significant improvement of the accuracy of value‐at‐risk forecasts at the portfolio level.
Turmeric Powder, Curcuma longa L., in Common Carp, Cyprinus carpio L., Diets: Growth Performance, Innate Immunity, and Challenge against Pathogenic Aeromonas hydrophila Infection
Authors: Abdel‐Tawwab Mohsen , Abbass Fayza E.
Published: August 2016

Microbial diseases cause economic loss in aquaculture on a global scale, and the use of commercial antibiotics for disease treatment produces undesirable side effects. As many medicinal herbs have evolved a potent defense against pathogenic bacteria, there is a growing interest in these herbs as sources for natural antibacterial agents. In this context, this study was undertaken to evaluate the effect of turmeric powder (TP), Curcuma longa, on the performance and innate immunity of common carp, Cyprinus carpio L., and its challenge against Aeromonas hydrophila infection. Fish (1.4 ± 0.06 g) were fed 0.0 (control), 1.0, 2.0, or 5.0 g TP/kg diet up to satiation twice daily for 10 wk. After the feeding trial, fish of each treatment were intraperitoneally injected by pathogenic A. hydrophila, and they were kept under observation for 10 d during which the daily mortality was recorded. The growth‐promoting effect of TP was monitored and observed where fish growth and innate immunity increased significantly as dietary TP levels increased. According to the regression curve, the most suitable TP level for optimal fish growth and health was found to be 2.0 g/kg. On the other hand, TP inclusion in the fish diet did not significantly affect fish body contents. The obtained results indicate that TP supplementation is a promising immunostimulant, which could improve fish performance and innate immunity and prevent common carp aermoniosis at a level of 2.0 g/kg diet.
The American Revolution and Christine Desan's New History of Money
Authors: David Edwards Andrew
Published: August 2016

This essay argues that Christine Desan's Making Money: Coin, Currency and the Coming of Capitalism intervenes decisively in debates over the origin of money, while making a fundamental contribution to the legal history of money, the philosophy of money, and the history of capitalism. Desan shows money to be a mode of governance, created by rulers to extend their power, and maintained and managed by their successors. She argues that British politicians reinvented money at the end of the seventeenth century, creating the essential institutional basis for contemporary capitalism. The essay builds on Desan's analysis, showing how the tools she develops to understand the origins and development of British money can help us explain the expansion of capitalism, and the transition to capitalism associated with the American Revolution.
New CIMDER measuring tapes for screening nutritional status in children less than 5 years of age
Authors: Echeverri O. , Saravia J. , Hurtado H.
Published: August 2016

The measurement of mid‐upper arm circumference (MUAC) using CIMDER tapes to assess the nutritional status of children aged 5 years and younger first occurred nearly 40 years ago. In this study, new CIMDER tapes were developed to assess severe and moderate malnutrition, mild malnutrition and, for the first time using the MUAC method, overweight in children aged less than 5 years, based on the World Health Organization (WHO) MUAC (2006) reference standards. The tapes were developed for boys and girls and specified for four age ranges: 3–6 months, 6.1–18 months, 18.1–36 months and 36.1–60 months. The weight, age and MUAC of 1283 children were assessed to evaluate the accuracy and concordance of the new CIMDER tapes with the WHO weight‐for‐age reference standards. The new CIMDER tapes were found to have good accuracy and concordance with the WHO weight‐for‐age reference standards across all age and sex groups. These results suggest that the new CIMDER tapes can be used in place of WHO weight‐for‐age growth charts for screening nutritional status of children less than 5 years of age, including for risk of malnutrition and overweight.
Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology – nutritional epidemiology (STROBE‐nut): An extension of the STROBE statement
Authors: Lachat C. , Hawwash D. , Ocké M. C. , Berg C. , Forsum E. , Hörnell A. , Larsson C. l. , Sonestedt E. , Wirfält E. , Åkesson A. , Kolsteren P. , Byrnes G. , De Keyzer W. , Van Camp J. , Cade J. E. , Slimani N. , Cevallos M. , Egger M. , Huybrechts I.
Published: August 2016

Concerns have been raised about the quality of reporting in nutritional epidemiology. Research reporting guidelines such as the Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (STROBE) statement can improve quality of reporting in observational studies. Herein, we propose recommendations for reporting nutritional epidemiology and dietary assessment research by extending the STROBE statement into Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology – Nutritional Epidemiology (STROBE‐nut). Recommendations for the reporting of nutritional epidemiology and dietary assessment research were developed following a systematic and consultative process, co‐ordinated by a multidisciplinary group of 21 experts. Consensus on reporting guidelines was reached through a three‐round Delphi consultation process with 53 external experts. In total, 24 recommendations for nutritional epidemiology were added to the STROBE checklist. When used appropriately, reporting guidelines for nutritional epidemiology can contribute to improve reporting of observational studies with a focus on diet and health.
Reaching consensus on a ‘vegetables first’ approach to complementary feeding
Authors: Chambers L. , Hetherington M. , Cooke L. , Coulthard H. , Fewtrell M. , Emmett P. , Lowdon J. , Blissett J. , Lanigan J. , Baseley C. , Stanner S.
Published: August 2016

On 5 May 2016, the British Nutrition Foundation (BNF) invited leading infant feeding experts to discuss and debate the strength of the evidence base on a ‘vegetables first’ approach to complementary feeding. Consensus was reached on the translation of the science into practical messages for parents/carers. In particular, it is known that familiarising infants with a variety of vegetables from the start of complementary feeding increases the likelihood that vegetables will be accepted throughout childhood, though currently in the UK vegetables tend not to be prioritised as first foods. Infant feeding guidance could include recommendations to offer tastes of a variety of vegetables when complementary feeding begins, as a first step in the transition from milk to solid foods, so that liking and acceptance are established during this early window of opportunity. This report describes the main themes emerging from the discussions and the specific messaging recommendations which could be included within infant feeding guidance.
Food texture and the satiety cascade
Authors: Chambers L.
Published: August 2016

Using the satiety cascade model as a framework, this paper describes how food texture can influence the strength and duration of sensory, cognitive and post‐ingestive signals that determine when a meal ends (satiation) and the inhibition of appetite between meals (satiety). The influence of food texture on oro‐sensory exposure time, expectations about the satiating effect of a food and processing of food in the gastrointestinal system is considered, as well how the interaction of these processes may impact on the overall experience of satiety. This body of work suggests that texture is one element of a food's flavour profile which could be a candidate for manipulation in the development of ‘high‐satiety’ foods.
Nutrition science – past, present and future
Authors: Haresign R. , Stanner S. , Lennox A. , Mathers J. C. , Williams C. M. , Buttriss J. L.
Published: August 2016

On 26 April 2016, the British Nutrition Foundation (BNF) held a half‐day conference in London on ‘Nutrition science – past, present and future’. This began by considering the dramatic changes that have influenced diets over the past 25 years in relation to government policy, the food supply, food in schools and communications. Dietary surveys, particularly the National Diet and Nutrition Survey, have allowed the nation's dietary intake to be monitored over this period. These surveys have played an important role in supporting science and policy, and highlighted changes and trends in nutrient intakes and status of the UK population over the past 25 years. In terms of health, there has been a dramatic increase in average life expectancy globally during the 20th century and the conference considered recent advances in understanding of the ageing process, epigenetics and nutrition across the life‐course. A number of lifestyle factors are recognised to influence risk of chronic diseases in later life. For example, dietary recommendations reflect the link between fat, particularly saturated fatty acids, and cardiovascular disease, although this has been widely debated in recent years. The conference concluded with considerations to what the future might hold for nutrition, as we grapple with decisions about what to grow and produce to ensure sustainability of the food supply in the face of likely climate change and a growing and more prosperous global population.
Apoplastic fungal effectors in historic perspective; a personal view
Authors: De Wit Pierre J. G. M.
Published: August 2016

See also the Commentary on this article by Ökmen & Doehlemann, 212: 799–801.
Autophagy and its current relevance to the diagnosis and clinical management of esophageal diseases
Authors: Langer Rupert , Streutker Catherine J. , Swanson Paul E.
Published: August 2016

Autophagy is an evolutionarily conserved cell survival program that degrades dysfunctional organelles and misfolded or long‐lived proteins through the formation of lysosomes. Basal autophagy helps to maintain cellular homeostasis, while additional autophagy can be induced under cellular stress conditions. Autophagy has shown to be involved in a variety of diseases, such as inflammation, autoimmune diseases, degeneration, and cancer. We review the relevance of autophagy to the diagnosis and clinical management of esophageal diseases with the following questions in mind. What is autophagy and can/should we detect it in routine pathology specimens? What is the role of autophagy in gastroesophageal reflux disease/inflammatory esophageal disease? What role may autophagy play in the interaction between pro‐ and antiapoptotic pathways in esophageal malignancies and treatment?
Epidemiology and mechanisms of gastroesophageal reflux disease in the elderly: a perspective
Authors: Bashashati Mohammad , Sarosiek Irene , McCallum Richard W.
Published: August 2016

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) seems to be more common in older individuals. Disturbed esophageal motility; anatomical disorders, such as hiatal hernia, increased obesity, defective mucosal integrity, and alteration in salivary secretion; and concomitant medications all attribute to the higher rate of GERD in the elderly. In this review, we discuss the underlying mechanisms that could explain this higher rate of GERD in the elderly.
Trade Agreements in the Shadow of Lobbying
Authors: Buzard Kristy
Published: August 2016

This paper presents a model of international trade agreements in which the executive branches of each government negotiate agreements while the legislative branches, subject to political pressure from firms, can disrupt them. Lobbying is in the style of Grossman and Helpman's ‘Protection for Sale’ model with a new feature: all actors face uncertainty arising from the complexity of the legislative process. I demonstrate that the higher the executives set tariffs in a trade agreement, the less effort lobbies put forth to prevent its ratification. Thus trade agreements act as a domestic political commitment device: executives set relatively high tariffs to discourage lobbying and increase the chance that the agreement will be ratified. The model sheds light on the empirical puzzle surrounding governments’ welfare weights in the Grossman and Helpman model and provides a new explanation for failures to ratify trade agreements.