bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Owners and employees wages: a question of rent appropriability
Authors: Díaz-Díaz Nieves L. L. , De Saá-Pérez Petra
Published: March 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to studuy how the owner identity affects the investment in human capital, measured by wage intensity, as well as the moderating effect of firm’s performance.

Design/methodology/approach

– A balanced panel of 1,266 Spanish firms that respond to the Survey of Business Strategies for a five-years period was used, which represents a total of 6,330 observations. The dynamic models are estimated using the general method of moments.

Findings

– The state ownership has a positive and significant effect on specific wage intensity. However, when ownership is in private hands – foreign shareholders, other companies-, the effect is significant but negative. In firms with state ownership, greater economic performance has a negative influence on human capital investment. The results also reveal that while privately owned firms – those with foreign shareholders – tend to invest less in human capital, that tendency diminishes when the firm obtains higher economic performance.

Practical implications

– Different owners may have different objectives and decision-making horizons, which affect the firm’s investment on human capital. The results obtained regarding the owner identity-wage intensity relationship may serve as a reference for the non-listed firms of continental Europe. The influence of ownership structure on the firm’s decision to invest in human capital is conditioned by the firm’s economic performance.

Originality/value

– The paper reveals the importance of considering each of the firm’s owners, since their influence on wage intensity differs according to the identity of the owner. There are little empirical papers which analyze the impact of ownership structure on wage intensity, depending on the identity of firm’s owners in a civil context. Moreover, a dynamic panel model is needed due to the firm’s wage intensity does not adjust immediately as their wages are often referring to the previous year rather than being fully negotiated. This paper can be considered a step forward in understanding owner identity characteristics in Spanish-European context.
Behavioral and societal drivers of an obesogenic environment worldwide
Authors: Abbade Eduardo Botti , Dewes Homero
Published: March 2015

Purpose

– This paper aims to present an ecological study that analyzed the impact of societal and behavioral factors on the obesogenic situation worldwide. The societal variables included urbanization, motorization and educational and economic developments, while the behavioral variables consisted of nutritional intake and insufficient physical activity (IPA).

Design/methodology/approach

– This investigation was based on official data concerning 99 countries, in the first part of the reference model, and 92 countries, in the second part. The constructs were measured through urban population (per cent), energy/protein/fat supply, expected years of schooling, gross domestic product and gross national income per capita, vehicles per 1,000 inhabitants, average body mass index and IPA level of the populations. Data, obtained through the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, World Health Organization, World Bank and United Nations, were analyzed mainly through descriptive, factor and multiple regression analyses.

Findings

– The results suggested that nutritional supply/intake, IPA and educational-level impact significantly and positively on the obesogenic situation (p< 0.01,p< 0.001 andp< 0.001, respectively). In addition, urbanization significantly affects the IPA (p< 0.01). Evidence also suggested that economic development impacts negatively on obesogenic severity (p< 0.01).

Originality/value

– Developing economies might face severe obesogenic problems in the future, given their limited access to healthy food and their growing urbanization; thus, nutritional intake should not be seen as the main antecedent of the obesogenic environment. This paper provides comprehensive information to policymakers and researchers interested in the severity of the global obesogenic environment.
Rheological characterisation of thickened fluids under different temperature, pH and fat contents
Authors: Hadde Enrico Karsten , Nicholson Timothy Michael , Cichero Julie Ann Yvette
Published: March 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper was to examine the rheological characterisation of thickened water under different temperature and pH conditions and thickened milk with different fat contents.

Design/methodology/approach

– Beverages thickened with powdered thickeners are used in the medical management of individuals who suffer swallowing difficulties (dysphagia). Each individual requires a specific level of thickness to best meet the needs of their dysphagia. Although the level of thickness is defined, obtaining the correct consistency of thickened fluids is difficult. This is due to fluctuations associated with temperature and type of fluids to be thickened. Rheological characterisation of commercially available xanthan gum-based thickener was performed under different conditions of temperature, pH and fat contents.

Findings

– The viscosity and the yield stress of thickened water was found to be unaffected by pH. Similarly, temperature did not affect the viscosity at a high thickener concentration, although it did at lower concentration levels. Conversely, viscosity and yield stress increased as fat levels increased in thickened milk. Furthermore, thickened water took less than 2 minutes to reach equilibrium viscosity, while thickened milk required approximately 15 minutes to reach equilibrium viscosity.

Practical implications

– These findings have implications for the standing time required for different beverages before they are thickened to a consistency that has been deemed safe for the patient’s physiological needs. Additionally, it highlights that different liquid base substances required different amounts of thickener to achieve the same level of thickness.

Originality/value

– Findings from this study confirms and explores the variability of thickened fluids under different conditions of temperature, pH and fat content for the medical management of dysphagia.
The recalcitrance of oxalate, nitrate and nitrites during the controlled lactic fermentation of commonly consumed green leafy vegetables
Authors: Jagannath A. , Kumar Manoranjan , Raju P  S
Published: March 2015

Purpose

– Green leafy vegetables (GLVs) are important components of a balanced diet especially in developing countries where the major requirements of micronutrients are met. However, GLVs also contain significant amounts of oxalate, nitrate and nitrites, whose role in the human diet is constantly changing. The current study explored the behavior of nitrate, nitrites and oxalate in lactic-fermented GLVs with an intention to develop functional foods based on them.

Design/methodology/approach

– Selected strains of beneficial lactic acid bacteria were used for the controlled fermentation of GLV, while an identical portion was subjected to spontaneous fermentation. The nitrate and nitrites were monitored spectrophotometrically, while oxalate contents were quantified by both titrimetric and by high-performance liquid chromatography throughout the duration of fermentation.

Findings

– More than 90 per cent of individual constituents studied remained intact in the GLVs paste after the six-day controlled fermentation period. However, there was significant difference between the controlled and spontaneously fermented samples in terms of oxalate, nitrate and nitrite contents.

Originality/value

– Controlled lactic fermentation although superior in all other aspects may not be able to lower the anti-nutrients present. The advantages of spontaneous fermentation vis-à-vis controlled fermentation are discussed. The work will bring out the importance of the beneficial effects of GLVs and the effect of lactic fermentation.
Bioactive peptides from egg: a review
Authors: Bhat Z. F. , Kumar Sunil , Bhat Hina Fayaz
Published: March 2015

Purpose

– The aim of the article was to focus on various peptides identified in the egg and their probable application as novel ingredients in the development of functional food products. Bioactive peptides of egg origin have attracted increasing interest as one of the prominent candidates for development of various health-promoting functional and designer foods.

Design/methodology/approach

– Traditionally known as a source of highly valuable proteins in human nutrition, eggs are nowadays also considered as an important source of many bioactive peptides which may find wide application in medicine and food production. These specific protein fragments from egg proteins which, above and beyond their nutritional capabilities, have a positive impact on the body’s function or condition by affecting the digestive, endocrine, cardiovascular, immune and nervous systems, and may ultimately influence health.

Findings

– Several peptides that are released in vitro or in vivo from egg proteins have been attributed to different health effects, including antihypertensive effects, antimicrobial properties, antioxidant activities, anticancer activity, immunomodulating activity, antiadhesive properties and enhancement of nutrient absorption and/or bioavailability. Extensive research has been undertaken to identify and characterize these biologically active peptides of egg origin which has changed the image of egg as a new source of biologically active ingredients for the development of functional foods with specific benefits for human health and treatment and prevention of diseases.

Originality/value

– The paper mainly describes the above-stated properties of bioactive peptides derived from egg proteins.
Grey Pride: priorities for a minister for older people
Authors: Ashcroft Jane
Published: March 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to argue the case for there to be a UK Minister for Older People supported by the work of a Commissioner for Older People.

Design/methodology/approach

– Draws on the work of the UK Grey Pride campaign to compare trends in demography and expectations with health and social service provision.

Findings

– With hospital “bed blocking” reportedly costing £20 million per month and limited responses to older peoples’ needs for appropriate housing, care and resources, the Grey Pride campaign has received widespread support with 30 organisations backing their campaign for a Minister for Older People.

Practical implications

– A Minister could help prioritise coordinated use of resources to make them more efficient and to help manage older peoples’ expectations. A Commissioner for Older People could investigate the accessibility and quality of care for older people.

Originality/value

– Identifies how no government administration to date has demonstrated its explicit commitment to prioritising older peoples’ needs.
Standing up for today's and tomorrow's pensioners
Authors: Gibson Dot
Published: March 2015

Purpose

– The National Pensioners’ Convention aims to challenge the case for current government policies to raise the age of retirement from paid work and to diversify routes to and amounts of pensions entitlement. The paper aims to discuss these issues.

Design/methodology/approach

– This policy-oriented commentary draws on evidence and arguments presented in the National Pensioners’ Convention Manifesto about the relative affluence of socio-economic class groups and their length of life after 65.

Findings

– In contrast to government claims of simplifying pensions by introducing single-tier state pensions, three different pension schemes will coexist for many years and in many cases these will provide less than current entitlements. Other universal pensioner benefits such as concessionary travel and winter fuel payments are now also the target of financial cost savings. Access to home care and residential care is increasingly restricted by service cuts and wider means testing.

Practical implications

– National Pensioners’ Convention Manifesto argues that the standard of care and support for older people needs to be guaranteed to be set above current poverty levels, to be linked to price and consumer indices and earnings, for universal pensioner benefits to be maintained, for a National Health and Care Service to be free at the point of use, funded through taxation and for standards to be improved through a legally binding Dignity code.

Originality/value

– This commentary expresses the views of a non-party campaigning organisation run by pensioners themselves to highlight their case for ways in which they may gain increased rather than decreased support for maintaining active living in later life.
What are the issues affecting grandparents in Britain today?
Authors: Smethers Sam
Published: March 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to provide an overview of the role that grandparents play in family life in Britain today with a particular focus on demographic change and the grandparental caring contribution for both children and older adults.

Design/methodology/approach

– Drawing upon a wide range of sources the author sets out the context, recent demographic and economic trends and presents a way forward.

Findings

– The research presented in this paper suggests that grandparents are playing an increasingly important role in family life and their caring contribution makes a material difference to maternal employment rates in particular. It also suggests that those who step in to the parenting role face particular challenges which need to be addressed.

Research limitations/implications

– Further research into the significance of the grandparent/grandchild relationship is needed, together with the caring contribution of those who provide intensive support to families in times of crisis both in terms of the impact that has on the grandparents but also the difference it makes to parents and children.

Practical implications

– One key practical implication is the need for a formal childcare infrastructure in the UK which does not assume that grandparents will always be there to provide childcare for working parents on the scale they do today.

Social implications

– Grandparents are living longer so more of them will have longer-lasting relationships with their grandchildren. But mothers are also ageing and so gradually over time the age at which we become grandparents will also be pushed back. This may in turn mean that grandparents in 20 years time may be less involved in childcare in any case.

Originality/value

– This piece does not present new research but rather provides an overview of existing evidence.
Party Management of Talent: Building a Party‐led, Merit‐based Talent Market in China
Authors: Chen Lijun , Chan Hon , Gao Jie , Yu Jianxing
Published: March 2015

This study examines major policy measures that the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) leaders have adopted to establish a party‐led, merit‐based talent management system to cope with a talent deficit in the reform era. It also assesses the effectiveness of these measures at both national and local levels. This study argues that although merit principles are never entirely missing from China's cadre personnel management, they have been given increasing priority in managing the cadre corps and recruiting global experts to China during the past three decades. This study shows that the CCP personnel management policies are in substantial and adaptive evolution, which is important for understanding the nature of human resource management in post‐Mao China.
Negotiating pain: the joint construction of a child's bodily sensation
Authors: Jenkins Laura
Published: March 2015

Traditional theories of socialisation, in which the child was viewed as a passive subject of external influences, are increasingly being rejected in favour of a new sociology of childhood which frames the child as a social actor. This article demonstrates the way in which conversation analysis can reveal children's agency in the micro‐detail of naturally occurring episodes in which children express bodily sensations and pain in everyday life. Based on 71 video‐recordings of mealtimes with five families, each with two children under 10 years old, the analysis focuses on the components of children's expressions of bodily sensation (including pain), the character of parents’ responses and the nature of the subsequent talk. The findings provide further evidence that children are social actors, active in constructing, accepting and resisting the nature of their physical experience and pain. A conversation analysis of ordinary family talk facilitates a description of how a child's agency is built, maintained or resisted through the interactional practices participants employ to display knowledge.
Learning About Ambiguity
Authors: Bea Robert
Published: March 2015

This paper proposes a classification system for definition, analysis and management of the primary ambiguities influencing the performance of engineered systems. One category of ambiguities (Intrinsic) is addressed with ‘hardware and structure’ approach that is intended to develop and maintain ‘robust’ damage and defect‐tolerant systems. The other category of ambiguities (Extrinsic) is addressed with ‘human and organizational’ approach intended to develop and maintain high reliability organizations having high reliability management with high reliability systems. Proactive (performed before activities are conducted), Reactive (performed after activities are conducted) and Interactive (performed while activities are conducted) risk management approaches and strategies are described to help develop and maintain systems having desirable performance characteristics, including acceptable ‘safety’. Results from a study of seven organizations that worked for more than 10 years to implement these approaches and strategies to assess and manage ambiguities are summarized.
A Study into the Persistence of Living in a Jobless Household
Authors: Hérault Nicolas , Kalb Guyonne , Zakirova Rezida
Published: March 2015

Relatively little is known about the dynamics of living in a jobless household at the individual level. We seek to fill this gap by using the Household Income and Labour Dynamics in Australia survey to estimate a dynamic random effects probit model of household joblessness. We find that state dependence clearly is an important factor in the persistence of household joblessness, as are a number of observed characteristics, while unobserved heterogeneity is also shown to play an important role. Interestingly, the results indicate that the degree of state dependence differs very little between individuals with different characteristics.
The Demand for Alcohol in Thailand
Authors: Chonviharnpan Bird , Lewis Phil
Published: March 2015

The purpose of this paper is to examine the factors affecting the likelihood of consuming and the amount spent on alcoholic beverages in Thailand. Heckman's sample selection model is applied to data from the 2009 Socio‐Economic Survey of Thailand. Results suggest that household size, tenure and occupation have significant impacts on both the probability of alcohol consumption and spending levels. Income also plays a key role in explaining the amount spent on alcoholic beverages. Demand elasticities are calculated under the Extended Linear Expenditure System. Demand for alcoholic beverages is found to be inelastic for Thai drinkers.
Correlated implied volatility with jump and cross section of stock returns
Authors: Ze‐To Samuel
Published: March 2015

I derive the option‐implied volatility allowing for nonzero correlation between price jump and diffusive risk to examine the information content of implied diffusive, jump risks and their implied covariance in the cross‐sectional variation of future returns. This study documents a strong predictive power of realized volatility and correlated implied volatility spread (RV − IVC) in the cross section of stock returns. The difference of realized volatility with the implied diffusive volatility (RV − σC), jump risk (RV − γC) and covariance (RV − ICov) can forecast future returns. These RV − σC and RV − γC anomalies are robustly persistent even after controlling for market, size, book‐to‐market value, momentum and liquidity factors.
Eyelid sporotrichosis: Unique clinical findings in 72 patients
Authors: Zhang Yaqin , Wang Yuqian , Cong Lele , Yang Hongfeng , Cong Xianling
Published: March 2015

Sporotrichosis on the eyelids is uncommon and has been rarely reported. As the largest series of 72 adults and children with eyelid sporotrichosis from Jilin ̀P̀̀rovince in China, this study provides useful information for the improved diagnosis and treatment of sporotrichosis.
Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy in five awake obese patients using paravertebral and superficial cervical plexus blockade
Authors: Kanawati S. , Fawal H. , Maaliki H. , Naja Z. M.
Published: March 2015

We report laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy in five awake obese patients, completed under regional anaesthesia provided by paravertebral and superficial cervical plexus blockade. The technique was acceptable to patients, surgeons and anaesthetists.
Imputation of Household Survey Data Using Linear Mixed Models
Authors: Lago Luise Patricia , Clark Robert Graham
Published: March 2015

Mixed models are regularly used in the analysis of clustered data, but are only recently being used for imputation of missing data. In household surveys where multiple people are selected from each household, imputation of missing values should preserve the structure pertaining to people within households and should not artificially change the apparent intracluster correlation (ICC). This paper focuses on the use of multilevel models for imputation of missing data in household surveys. In particular, the performance of a best linear unbiased predictor for both stochastic and deterministic imputation using a linear mixed model is compared to imputation based on a single level linear model, both with and without information about household respondents. In this paper an evaluation is carried out in the context of imputing hourly wage rate in the Household, Income and Labour Dynamics of Australia Survey. Nonresponse is generated under various assumptions about the missingness mechanism for persons and households, and with low, moderate and high intra‐household correlation to assess the benefits of the multilevel imputation model under different conditions. The mixed model and single level model with information about the household respondent lead to clear improvements when the ICC is moderate or high, and when there is informative missingness.
Spinal fusion in girls with Rett syndrome: post‐operative recovery and family experiences
Authors: Marr C. , Leonard H. , Torode I. , Downs J.
Published: March 2015

Background

Rett syndrome is a severe neurodevelopmental disorder mainly affecting females and scoliosis is a common co‐morbidity. Spinal fusion may be recommended if the scoliosis is progressive. This qualitative study investigated recovery of girls with Rett syndrome during the first 12 post‐operative months and explored family perspectives and coping around the time of surgery.

Method

Parents registered with the population‐based Australian Rett Syndrome Database were recruited to this study if their daughter had a confirmed pathogenic MECP2 mutation and spinal fusion between 2006 and 2012. Twenty‐five interviews were conducted to determine their daughter's recovery and parental stresses and coping. Themes in the interview data were identified with content analysis, and the regaining of gross motor skills over the first 12 post‐operative months was described with time‐to‐event (survival) analysis.

Results

Pain and energy levels, appetite, mood and coinciding health issues influenced their daughter's post‐operative recovery. The majority of girls recovered preoperative sitting (88%), standing (81%) and walking (80%) by 12 months. The decision to proceed with surgery was associated with feelings of fear, obligation, relief and guilt for families. Development of complications, poor support and feelings of isolation increased their emotional burden whereas adequate information and discharge preparation, confidence in self and staff, and balancing personal needs with their daughter's care relieved this burden.

Interpretation

Our study identified clinical practice issues in relation to families whose daughter with Rett syndrome undergoes spinal fusion, issues that are also relevant to other severe disabilities. Return of wellness and gross motor skills following spinal fusion in girls with Rett syndrome occurred within the first 12 post‐operative months in most cases. Parents require information and practical support to alleviate their emotional burden.
Child welfare workers' perceptions of children's participation: a comparative study ofEngland,Norway and theUSA(California)
Authors: Križ Katrin , Skivenes Marit
Published: March 2015

This paper examines how child welfare workers inEngland,Norway and theUSA(California) perceive children's participation building on 91 qualitative interviews. First, analysing the data usingHart's ladder of children's participation, we found that allNorwegian workers perceived children's participation as some form of decision‐making, whereas 40% ofEnglish and 35% ofUSworkers embraced views of children's participation that can be considered token or non‐participation. Second, we coded the data for main themes and found that child welfare workers in all three countries perceived children's participation ashearing the child's opinionandinformation gathering. The themes ofage,maturityandability to form an opinionalso emerged from the data.English workers' reflections about children's participation were more nuanced than theirNorwegian andUScounterparts; andUSworkers understood children's participation as children providing valuable information during the investigation of a case more frequently than workers inEngland andNorway. We discuss the implications of these findings on future research.
Sonophotocatalytic treatment of methyl orange dye and real textile effluent using synthesised nano‐zinc oxide
Authors: Hemapriyamvadha Ravindran , Sivasankar Thirugnanasambandam
Published: March 2015

In this work, experiments were carried out by combining the sonication technique with the photocatalytic technique (ultraviolet light source) for the degradation of methyl orange dye and real textile effluent. Studies were performed with variation in parameters such as oxidant (sodium persulfate), commercially available zinc oxide, methyl orange concentration, and sonochemically synthesised zinc oxide. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy, and X‐ray diffraction analysis of synthesised zinc oxide showed that the particle size was in the nano range. Near‐complete colour removal by sonophotocatalytic treatment was observed for a concentration of 10 mg l−1of methyl orange with 1 g l−1of synthesised zinc oxide and 1500 mg l−1of sodium persulfate. For 100 mg l−1of methyl orange, the colour removal was 77% for 1 g l−1commercially available zinc oxide and 84% for 1 g l−1synthesised zinc oxide respectively, with 1500 mg l−1sodium persulfate. Similar experimental conditions were applied for the sonophotocatalytic treatment of real textile effluent with different dilutions (1:100, 1:10, and 1:1) and raw effluent. For real textile effluent, sonophotocatalytic treatment was found to be highly effective both in colour and chemical oxygen demand removal. The chemical oxygen demand removal was 88, 65, 63, and 41% for 1:100, 1:10, and 1:1 dilutions and raw effluent respectively.
Dyes derived from 3‐formyl‐2(1H)‐quinolone – synthesis, spectroscopic characterisation, and their behaviour in the presence of sulfhydryl and non‐sulfhydryl amino acids
Authors: Kowalska Aleksandra , Kolińska Jolanta , Podsiadły Radosław , Sokołowska Jolanta
Published: March 2015

Novel dyes based on a 3‐formyl‐2(1H)‐quinolone skeleton were synthesised and characterised using 1H nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy and mass spectrometry. The spectroscopic properties of these dyes, such as their absorption spectra, emission spectra, and quantum fluorescence yields, were also examined. The behaviour of the obtained compounds at a pH of 7.4 in the absence and in the presence of thiol amino acids, such as l‐cysteine, l‐glutathione, and N‐acetyl‐l‐cysteine, were studied. The spectroscopic responses of the tested dyes towards other amino acids were also investigated. A reference compound was synthesised to understand the reaction mechanism between the thiols and the obtained dyes. The experimental results show that the synthesised dyes have the potential to act as sensors for thiols.
Perineural granulomas in cutaneous sarcoidosis may be associated with sarcoidosis small‐fiber neuropathy
Authors: Munday William R. , McNiff Jennifer , Watsky Kalman , DiCapua Daniel , Galan Anjela
Published: March 2015

Perineural granulomas in cutaneous sarcoidosis have been rarely reported and their clinical significance has yet to be evaluated. Recently, a 27‐year‐old male presented with multiple pink papules on the flank and lower back, accompanied by a painful, burning sensation. Biopsies revealed well‐defined granulomas, consistent with sarcoidosis, in the dermis and involving small cutaneous nerves. We hypothesized that perineural granulomas may be an under‐recognized feature of cutaneous sarcoidosis and may be responsible for sensory disturbances. We reviewed cases from 29 consecutive patients with cutaneous sarcoidosis. Perineural granulomas were identified in 18/29 (62%) patients and in 22/40 (55%) biopsies. Perineural granulomas were identified in 7/9 biopsies from the proximal upper extremity, 1/3 from the distal upper extremity, 7/12 from the head and the neck, including 4/4 from the nose, 5/9 from the back, 1/2 from the flank and 1/1 from the proximal lower extremity and 0/4 from the distal lower extremity. The anatomical distribution is similar to sarcoidosis small‐fiber neuropathy (SSFN), in which sarcoidosis patients without evident skin lesions experience sensory disturbances of unknown etiology involving the face, the proximal extremities and the trunk. Our results indicate perineural granulomas in cutaneous sarcoidosis are more common than previously appreciated, primarily involve the head, the proximal upper extremities and the back, and may be responsible for neurological manifestations.
ALK translocation detection in non‐small cell lung cancer cytological samples obtained by TBNA or EBUS‐TBNA
Authors: Bravaccini S. , Tumedei M. M. , Ulivi P. , Zoli W. , Calistri D. , Candoli P. , Amadori D. , Puccetti M.
Published: March 2015

Objective

As the diagnosis of non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is based on cytology in around 70% of cases, it is important to use the same material for molecular analyses. Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) is the only approved test for the detection of the translocation and inversion of anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK), but the optimal procedures for the fixation or staining of the sample before FISH evaluation have not been established. We investigated whether ALK gene status determined by FISH in a prospectively enrolled case series of patients was affected by fixation and staining.

Methods

One hundred and fifteen cytological samples were obtained by transbronchial needle aspiration (TBNA) or endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS)‐TBNA from 109 patients with NSCLC. All samples were evaluated for epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutation by pyrosequencing and for ALK rearrangement by FISH. Specimens for ALK determination had been fixed with Cytofix® and/or Carnoy's solution or 10% formalin (cell blocks) and variously stained.

Results

Sixteen (14%) of the 115 samples were mutated for EGFR and 99 (86%) showed wild‐type EGFR status. Of these 115 samples, 79 (69%) were negative for echinoderm microtubule‐associated protein like 4 (EML4)‐ALK translocation, nine (8%) were positive and 27 (23%) were unevaluable. In particular, 19 (26%) of the 72 Papanicolaou‐stained smears fixed with Cytofix were unevaluable because of inadequate samples or cell overlapping; neither of the two May–Grünwald–Giemsa‐stained samples were evaluable. Ten of 17 smears used for rapid on‐site evaluation (ROSE) and immediately post‐fixed in Carnoy's solution or 80% alcohol were evaluable.

Conclusions

In this series, smears were unevaluable as a result of inadequate samples, cell overlapping or lack of fixation performed immediately after FNA.
What can be learned from reporting no‐treatment effect of distribution of upper limb training?
Authors: Eliasson Ann‐Christin
Published: March 2015

This commentary is on the original article by Sakzewski et al. on pages 539–547 of this issue.
Improving survival in cerebral palsy: where do we go from here?
Authors: Reid Susan M
Published: March 2015

This commentary is on the original article by Himmelmann and Sundh on pages 762–767 of this issue.
Nesting strategies affect altitudinal distribution and habitat use in Alpine dung beetle communities
Authors: CHAMBERLAIN DAN , TOCCO CLAUDIA , LONGONI ALICE , MAMMOLA STEFANO , PALESTRINI CLAUDIA , ROLANDO ANTONIO
Published: March 2015

1. Dung beetles are key contributors to a suite of ecosystem services. Understanding the factors that dictate their distributions is a necessary step towards preventing negative impacts of biodiversity loss.

2. Alpine dung beetle communities were analysed along altitudinal gradients to assess how different components of the community, defined in terms of nesting strategy [dung‐ovipositing Aphodiidae (DOAs), soil‐ovipositing Aphodiidae (SOAs) and two paracoprid (PAR) groups, Geotrupidae and Scarabaeidae] and parameters relevant to dung removal rates (species richness, total biomass and functional diversity), are distributed, and to identify to which environmental factors they respond.

3. Species richness declined with altitude. There was no significant variation in functional diversity or total biomass in relation to altitude. There were significant variations when considered by nesting group:DOAspecies richness and biomass decreased,SOAbiomass increased, and Geotrupidae biomass showed a non‐linear trend, as altitude increased.

4. Functional diversity and total species richness were positively related to vegetation cover.DOAspecies richness was highest in forest and scrub;SOAspecies richness was highest in grassland andPARspecies richness was lowest in rocky areas.

5. Dung beetle species show different trends in species richness and biomass depending on nesting strategy. Management to promote the dung beetle community should include maintenance of a mosaic of habitat types. Given the likely importance of species richness and biomass to ecosystem functioning, and the complimentary effect of different dung beetle groups, such a strategy may protect and enhance the ecosystem services that Alpine dung beetles provide.
Empirical model for plasticity‐induced crack closure based on Kmax and ΔK
Authors: Antunes F. V. , Chegini A. G. , Camas D. , Correia L
Published: March 2015

The mean stress has a significant effect on crack propagation life and must be included in prediction models. However, there is no consensus in the fatigue community regarding the dominant mechanism explaining the mean stress effect. The concept of crack closure has been widely used and several empirical models can be found in literature. The stress ratio, R, is usually the main parameter of these models, but present numerical results showed a significant influence of Kmax. A new empirical model is therefore proposed here, dependent on Kmax and ΔK, with four empirical constants. The model also includes the effect of material's yield stress, and two additional parameters were defined to account for stress state and crack closure parameter. A comparison was made with Kujawski's and Glinka's parameters, for a wide range of loading conditions. ΔKeff lies between Kujawski's and Glinka's parameters, and some agreement is evident, although the concepts are quite different. The crack opening model was applied to literature results and was able to collapse da/dN–ΔK curves for different stress ratios to a single master curve.
Changes in von Willebrand factor level and von Willebrand activity with age in type 1 von Willebrand disease
Authors: Rydz N. , Grabell J. , Lillicrap D. , James P. D.
Published: March 2015

In a normal population, VWF plasma levels (VWF:Ag) and VWF activity (VWF:RCo) increase by approximately 0.17 and 0.15 IU mL−1 per decade, but the influence of age is unknown in patients with type 1 von Willebrand disease (VWD). In a retrospective cohort study, the medical records of 31 type 1 VWD patients over the age of 30, who had been followed for ≥5 years, were reviewed for baseline clinical data and previously performed VWF:Ag, VWF:RCo and factor VIII levels (FVIII:C). VWF multimer analysis was normal in 28/31 cases performed. Mean age at diagnosis was 33 (range 16–60 years), and duration of follow‐up ranged from 5 to 26 years (mean 11 years). Patients had 2–10 time points of VWD testing (mean of 5.2). The mean VWF:Ag, VWF:RCo and FVIII:C at time of diagnosis were 0.44 IU mL−1 0.34 IU mL−1 and 0.75 IU mL−1. At last follow‐up, the mean VWF:Ag, VWF:RCo and FVIII:C were significantly increased to 0.71 IU L−1, 0.56 IU mL−1 and 0.90 IU mL−1 (P ≤ 0.001, <0.001, and 0.0081 respectively). Here 18/31 patients had VWF:Ag, VWF:RCo and FVIII: C levels that increased into the normal range. The rate of change in VWF:Ag, VWF:RCo and FVIII was 0.30 IU mL−1 (0.21–0.39, CI 95%, P < 0.0001), 0.20 IU mL−1 per decade (0.13–0.27, CI 95%, P = 0.0001) and 0.20 IU mL−1 (0.11–0.29, CI 95%, P = 0.0011). Patients with type 1 VWD experience age‐related increases to VWF:Ag and VWF:RCo which can result in normalization of VWF levels. Further studies are required to determine if the bleeding phenotype resolves with the increases in VWF:Ag and VWF:RCo levels.
Silencing Theodicy with Enthusiasm: Aesthetic Experience as a Response to the Problem of Evil in Shaftesbury, Annie Dillard, and the Book of Job
Authors: McAteer John
Published: March 2015

The problem of evil is not only a logical problem about God's goodness but also an existential problem about the sense of God's presence, which the Biblical book of Job conceives as a problem of aesthetic experience. Thus, just as theism can be grounded in religious experience, atheism can be grounded in experience of evil. This phenomenon is illustrated by two contrasting literary descriptions of aesthetic experience by Jean‐Paul Sartre and Annie Dillard. I illuminate both of these literary texts with a discussion of the 18th Century philosopher Lord Shaftesbury's concept of ‘enthusiasm’.
Strengthened to forgive workplace transgressions: priming new money increases interpersonal forgiveness
Authors: Mok Aurelia , De Cremer David
Published: March 2015

We propose that a focus on new money increases forgiveness of others. Three studies provided consistent support for our hypothesis. Working adults recalled an interpersonal offense by a colleague and were subsequently induced to think of either new or used banknotes. Thinking of new (vs. used) banknotes led to weaker destructive tendencies toward the offender (Study 1), more pro‐relationship thinking (Study 2), and higher forgiveness (Study 3). This effect was mediated by feelings of vitality (Study 3), indicating a strength‐based mechanism. We discuss implications for research on money, forgiveness, self‐regulation, and organizational behavior.
The effects of low levels of fatigue on face recognition among individuals and team members
Authors: Frings Daniel
Published: March 2015

The ability to identify particular faces among a crowd or line up is important in various contexts. However, little is known about how fatigue due to sleep deficit affects performance nor about the moderating role of team membership. UK Army Reservists (n = 182) indicated whether line ups of four faces included either of two target faces. They did this while either alone or in a team and while fatigued or alert. Among individuals, fatigue led to a greater bias toward identifying targets as absent. Fatigued team members experienced bias toward absent responses but to a lesser extent than did fatigued individuals. This did not translate into improved performance; fatigued teams had an equal proportion of hits but more false alarms than fatigued individuals.
Improving the implementation of NICE public health workplace guidance: an evaluation of the effectiveness of action‐planning workshops in NHS trusts in England
Authors: Jones Sarah , Sloan David , Evans Hannah E. R. , Williams Sian
Published: March 2015

Rationale, aims and objectives

There is evidence that health and well‐being of the National Health Service (NHS) workforce affects organizational and patient outcomes. A Cochrane review of the effectiveness of clinical audit to improve quality of care has shown great variation between studies, depending on the design and intensity of support offered. This study evaluates the effectiveness of an organizational audit methodology with (1) action‐planning workshops and follow‐up and (2) audit feedback alone, to support the implementation of the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) workplace guidance.

Methods

Two rounds of audit using a self‐administered online questionnaire were conducted. An overall implementation score was devised for each trust. Following round 1, interviews were conducted with a cohort of trusts with high scores. The interviews used a theory‐based framework to identify predictors of and barriers to successful implementation. From this, the content for action‐planning workshops was devised and workshops held with lower scoring trusts. The remaining trusts received only written feedback on their audit results. Changes in the implementation score between rounds 1 and 2 were compared within and between cohorts.

Results

The median improvement in scores between rounds 1 and 2 was statistically significant except where baseline score was high. The improvement for trusts who received workshops was very much better than those who did not (P < 0.001). This difference remained after adjustment using stratification by baseline score (P = 0.001).

Conclusions

Audit, combined with action‐planning workshops and follow‐up, appears to be more effective in improving implementation of NICE workplace health and well‐being guidance than audit with feedback alone.
Rethinking primary care visits: how much can be eliminated, delegated or performed outside of the face‐to‐face visit?
Authors: Pelak Mary , Pettit Amy R. , Terwiesch Christian , Gutierrez Jennifer C. , Marcus Steven C.
Published: March 2015

Rationale, aims and objectives

Office visits represent the core component of primary care practice, but little is known about what percentage of primary care provider (PCP) visit time could be suitable for reassignment to another medical home team member or to a non‐face‐to‐face modality (e.g. secure messaging) in order to optimize face‐to‐face PCP visit time.

Method

We videotaped 121 PCP office visits at four Veterans Health Administration Medical Centers and divided visits into discrete activity segments. Two physicians reviewed each visit recording and provided independent clinical judgments regarding which segments might be suitable for reassignment. We examined the activity category distribution of visit time rated as needing face‐to‐face time with a PCP.

Results

Reviewers judged 53% of the 5398 minutes of rated visit time as suitable for reassignment to another team member or modality. The percentage of time rated as needing face‐to‐face PCP care varied greatly by activity category, from a high of 73.9% (for examining patients) to a low of 16.2% (for medication review). Rater agreement regarding tasks' suitability for reassignment varied across activity categories.

Conclusions

These data offer an example of how face‐to‐face PCP visit time might be optimized as practices seek to shift components of patient care to other team members and other modalities. Given variations in provider preferences and judgments, successful redesign efforts will need to involve stakeholders in decisions about how to best utilize medical home resources.
Microhabitat use affects goby (Gobiidae) cue choice in spatial learning task
Authors: White G. E. , Brown C.
Published: March 2015

This study investigated whether spatial learning ability and cue use of gobies (Gobiidae) from two contrasting habitats differed in a spatial task. Gobies were collected from the spatially complex rock pools and dynamic, homogenous sandy shores. Fishes were trained to locate a shelter under the simulated threat of predation and it was determined whether they used local or extra‐maze (global) and geometric cues to do so. It was hypothesized that fishes from rock pools would outperform fishes from sandy shores in their ability to relocate shelter and the two groups would differ in their cue use. It was found that rock‐pool species learnt the location of the correct shelter much faster, made fewer errors and used a combination of all available cues to locate the shelter, while sand species relied significantly more on extra‐maze and geometric cues for orientation. The results reported here support the hypothesis that fishes living in complex habitats have enhanced capacity for spatial learning and are more likely to rely on local landmarks as directional cues than fishes living in mundane habitats where local cues such as visual landmarks are unreliable.
Weight loss experiences of obese perimenopausal women with metabolic syndrome
Authors: Su Mei‐Chen , Lin Hung‐Ru , Chu Nain‐Feng , Huang Chih‐Hsung , Tsao Lee‐Ing
Published: March 2015

Aims and objectives

To develop a descriptive theory for the weight loss experiences of obese perimenopausal women with metabolic syndrome.

Background

Obesity and metabolic syndrome both pose a threat to the health of perimenopausal women; therefore, understanding perimenopausal women's subjective feelings and experiences is beneficial to establishing effective prevention strategies. However, studies have rarely explored these relevant experiences.

Design

A qualitative study using the grounded theory method to establish a descriptive theory.

Methods

Eighteen obese perimenopausal women with metabolic syndrome aged 45–60 years participated in comprehensive interviews.

Results

‘Crossing the gaps to making life modifications’ was the core category, and ‘the awareness of weight gain and health alarm’ was the antecedent condition. In the weight loss experience, the following three interaction categories were identified: (1) ‘experiencing bad feelings,’ (2) ‘encountering obstacles’ and (3) ‘making efforts to transition to a new life.’ Some women adhered to new life habits through perceiving social support and by using self‐incentives. Finally, women enjoyed and mastered self‐monitoring of their health in their new life, and practiced new changes as part of their life. However, some participants felt that making changes to their life was too time‐consuming. Therefore, these women chose to live with their abnormal health without making changes.

Conclusions

Obese perimenopausal women with metabolic syndrome experienced various gaps in their weight loss process. Although they struggled with many obstacles, these women were able to learn from their experiences and face their health challenges.

Relevance to clinical practice

These findings can guide healthcare professionals to provide appropriate interventions to understand the hidden health problems of this particular group of women. Healthcare professionals should develop a set of plans by which women receive a complete weight loss program and support from professionals and family.