bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Climate vs. topography – spatial patterns of plant species diversity and endemism on a high‐elevation island
Authors: Irl Severin D. H. , Harter David E. V. , Steinbauer Manuel J. , Gallego Puyol David , Fernández‐Palacios José María , Jentsch Anke , Beierkuhnlein Carl
Published: August 2015

Climate and topography are among the most fundamental drivers of plant diversity. Here, we assessed the importance of climate and topography in explaining diversity patterns of species richness, endemic richness and endemicity on the landscape scale of an oceanic island and evaluated the independent contribution of climatic and topographic variables to spatial diversity patterns.

We constructed a presence/absence matrix of perennial endemic and native vascular plant species (including subspecies) in 890 plots on the environmentally very heterogeneous island of La Palma, Canary Islands. Species richness, endemic richness and endemicity were recorded, interpolated and related to climate (i.e. variables describing temperature, precipitation, variability and climatic rarity) and topography (i.e. topographic complexity, solar radiation, geologic age, slope and aspect). We used multimodel inference, spatial autoregressive models, variance partitioning and linear regression kriging as statistical methods.

Species richness is best explained by both climatic and topographic variables. Topographic variables (esp. topographic complexity and solar radiation) explain endemic richness, and climatic variables (esp. elevation/temperature and rainfall seasonality) explain endemicity. Spatial patterns of species richness, endemic richness and endemicity were in part geographically decoupled from each other.

Synthesis. We identified several topography‐dependent processes ranging from evolutionary processes (micro‐refugia, in situ speciation, pre‐adaptation to rupicolous conditions, dispersal limitations) to human‐induced influences (introduced herbivores, fire, land use) that possibly shape the endemic richness pattern of La Palma. In contrast, climate mainly drives endemicity, which is connected to ecological speciation and specialization to local conditions. We highlight the importance of incorporating climatic variability into future studies of plant species diversity and endemism. The spatial incongruence in hot spots of species richness, endemic richness and endemicity emphasizes the need for an integrated conservation approach acknowledging different diversity measures to protect the complete spectrum of diversity. High‐elevation islands such as La Palma are highly suitable to study drivers of diversity and endemism, as they offer environmental gradients of continental magnitude on the landscape scale of a single climatic mini‐continent and a large array of in situ‐speciated endemics.
Postmortem Intervals in Mice Submerged in Aqueous Environments at 20°C
Authors: Celata Elizabeth N.
Published: August 2015

Aqueous submersion can impede decay and produce decomposition stages not seen in terrestrial burials. To further understand the variances, fifty‐four mice were submerged in freshwater, marine water, and a control environment at 20°C. The mice displayed sequential stages at differing rates over 6 weeks. Regression plots and comparative t‐tests demonstrated that internal putrefaction, weight difference, and abdominal circumference of the aqueous environments varied significantly from the control group. The aqueous subjects did not vary significantly from each other quantitatively. The postmortem intervals were not consistent regardless of temperature or environment although a clear variance was noted between the control and the submerged groups.
Detection of Clostridium Tyrobutyricum in Milk to Prevent Late Blowing in Cheese by Automated Ribosomal Intergenic Spacer Analysis
Authors: Panelli Simona , Brambati Eva , Bonacina Cesare , Feligini Maria
Published: August 2015

Clostridium tyrobutyricum has been identified as the main causal agent of the late blowing defect in cheese, with major effects on quality and commercial value. In this work, for the first time, we applied automated ribosomal intergenic spacer analysis (ARISA) approach to diagnose the presence of C. tyrobutyricum in raw milk before cheesemaking. A species‐specific primer set was designed and used for this original application of the ARISA. Sensitivity of detection, reproducibility of the fluorescent PCR assay, and repeatability of the capillary electrophoretic analysis of amplicons were evaluated using DNA extracted from milk added with known amounts of C. tyrobutyricum genome copies, ranging from 3 × 106 to 3. Results indicated that the sensitivity of the technique permits to detect the bacterium in all the samples. The reproducibility, evaluated by analyzing 3 sets of serial dilutions, resulted satisfactory, with little deviation within PCR reactions amplifying the same starting amount of template (standard deviations ≤ 0.1, coefficients of variation ≤ 3%). The peaks' fluorescence displayed an evident correspondence with the number of genome copies contained in each dilution. The capillary electrophoretic analysis, tested by running a single PCR product per dilution point in 10 repeats, resulted efficient and highly repeatable, with excellent coefficients of variation ≤ 2% and standard deviations ≤ 0.1 in all the sample sets. This application of ARISA gives good estimates of the total C. tyrobutyricum DNA content allowing a specific, fine‐scale resolution of this pollutant species in a complex system as milk. A further advantage linked to the automatization of the process.
Do Firms Use Tax Reserves to Meet Analysts’ Forecasts? Evidence from the Pre‐ and Post‐FIN 48 Periods
Authors: Gupta Sanjay , Laux Rick C. , Lynch Daniel P.
Published: August 2015

We examine whether firms decrease tax reserves to meet analysts’ quarterly earnings forecasts in the period prior to FIN 48, and whether that behavior changed following FIN 48. We use analysts’ forecasts of pretax and after‐tax income to impute premanaged earnings, or earnings before any tax manipulation. Pre‐FIN 48, we observe that firms reduce their tax reserves (i.e., increase income) when premanaged earnings are below analysts’ forecasts. Specifically, 78 percent of firm‐quarters that would have missed the analyst forecast if not for the tax reserve decrease, meet that target when the decrease is included. Furthermore, we find a significant positive association between the decrease in tax reserves and the deviation of premanaged earnings from analysts’ forecasts. In contrast, post‐FIN 48, we find no evidence that firms use changes in tax reserves to manage earnings to meet analysts’ forecasts. Thus, our results suggest that FIN 48 has, at least initially, curtailed firms’ use of tax reserves to manage earnings.
Honor Among Thieves: Open Internal Reporting and Managerial Collusion
Authors: Evans John H. , Moser Donald V. , Newman Andrew H. , Stikeleather Bryan R.
Published: August 2015

Firms have increasingly adopted open work environments. Although openness is thought to have benefits, it could also expose firms to an unanticipated cost. An open (closed) internal reporting environment makes it more (less) likely that managers will observe a colleague's communications with senior executives. This increase in what one manager knows about another manager's communication to senior executives could facilitate employee collusion to extract resources from the firm. To test whether internal reporting openness results in more collusion, we conduct an experiment in which two managers each make separate reports to the firm about cost information they know in common but that remains unknown by the firm. Because both managers face the same truth‐inducing contract, conventional economic theory predicts that they will not collude to misreport costs regardless of reporting openness. However, using behavioral theory involving trust and reciprocity, we predict and find that managers honor their nonbinding collusive agreements and successfully collude more often in an open versus closed internal reporting environment, leading to lower firm welfare in the open environment. These results suggest that firms should consider how the cost of collusion compares to the benefits of openness.
Career Concerns and Management Earnings Guidance
Authors: Pae Suil , Song Chang Joon , Yi Andrew C.
Published: August 2015

This study provides evidence that managers' career concerns affect their earnings guidance decisions. We hypothesize that CEOs who are relatively more concerned about assessments of their abilities have stronger incentives to guide the market expectations of earnings downwards to increase the likelihood of meeting or beating the expectations. Consistent with this hypothesis, we find that (i) short‐tenured CEOs, CEOs promoted from inside the firm, and nonfounder CEOs are more likely to provide downward earnings guidance when they have bad news, and (ii) their downward guidance tends to be more conservative. In response, analysts revise earnings forecasts less for the downward guidance provided by more career‐concerned CEOs. This indicates that analysts rationally incorporate these CEOs' stronger incentives to be conservative in their earnings guidance. Consequently, we find that CEOs with greater career concerns are not more likely to beat the market expectations, even when they provide more conservative downward guidance.
Systematic review with meta‐analysis: faecal diversion for management of perianal Crohn's disease
Authors: Singh S. , Ding N. S. , Mathis K. L. , Dulai P. S. , Farrell A. M. , Pemberton J. H. , Hart A. L. , Sandborn W. J. , Loftus E. V.
Published: August 2015

Background

Temporary faecal diversion is sometimes used for management of refractory perianal Crohn's disease (CD) with variable success.

Aims

To perform a systematic review with meta‐analysis to evaluate the effectiveness, long‐term outcomes and factors associated with success of temporary faecal diversion for perianal CD.

Methods

Through a systematic literature review through 15 July 2015, we identified 16 cohort studies (556 patients) reporting outcomes after temporary faecal diversion. We estimated pooled rates [with 95% confidence interval (CI)] of early clinical response, attempted and successful restoration of bowel continuity after temporary faecal diversion (without symptomatic relapse), and rates of re‐diversion (in patients with attempted restoration) and proctectomy (with or without colectomy and end‐ileostomy). We identified factors associated with successful restoration of bowel continuity.

Results

On meta‐analysis, 63.8% (95% CI: 54.1–72.5) of patients had early clinical response after faecal diversion for refractory perianal CD. Restoration of bowel continuity was attempted in 34.5% (95% CI: 27.0–42.8) of patients, and was successful in only 16.6% (95% CI: 11.8–22.9). Of those in whom restoration was attempted, 26.5% (95% CI: 14.1–44.2) required re‐diversion because of severe relapse. Overall, 41.6% (95% CI: 32.6–51.2) of patients required proctectomy after failure of temporary faecal diversion. There was no difference in the successful restoration of bowel continuity after temporary faecal diversion in the pre‐biological or biological era (13.7% vs. 17.6%, P = 0.60), in part due to selection bias. Absence of rectal involvement was the most consistent factor associated with restoration of bowel continuity.

Conclusions

Temporary faecal diversion may improve symptoms in approximately two‐thirds of patients with refractory perianal Crohn's disease, but bowel restoration is successful in only 17% of patients.
Mental health services for children and adolescents with learning disabilities: a review of research on experiences of service users and providers
Authors: Jacobs Myrthe , Downie Helen , Kidd Gill , Fitzsimmons Lorna , Gibbs Susie , Melville Craig
Published: August 2015

Accessible summary

Many policies and initiatives have been developed to improve mental health services for children with learning disabilities.

Children with learning disabilities and their parents, however, experience many barriers accessing mental health services.

Service providers identified a lack of resources as a barrier to meeting the needs of children with learning disabilities.

Current research offers suggestions on what can be improved, but further research is needed to identify what models of service would work best for children with learning disabilities.

Background: Children and young people with learning disabilities experience high rates of mental health problems.

Methods: The present study reviewed the literature on mental health services for children with learning disabilities, to identify known models of service provision and what has been experienced as effective or challenging in providing good services.

Results: Children with learning disabilities and their parents experience barriers accessing mental health services that are related to a lack of information and perceptions of services as being inadequate. Service providers identified a lack of resources as a barrier to meeting needs. Although positive experiences are also observed, many parents have found services to be inappropriate or overwhelming.

Conclusion: Research linking population need to available resources, and service models to services users’ outcomes would be valuable to make clear recommendations on how mental health services can address the needs of this group more effectively.
Kaposi sarcoma following postmastectomy lymphedema
Authors: Montero Pérez Iria , Rodríguez‐Pazos Laura , Álvarez‐Pérez Adriana , Ferreirós MªMercedes Pereiro , Aliste Carlos , Suarez‐Peñaranda Jose Manuel , Toribio Jaime
Published: August 2015

Classical Kaposi sarcoma (KS) usually appears on lower extremities accompanied or preceded by local lymphedema. However, the development in areas of chronic lymphedema of the arms following mastectomy, mimicking a Stewart–Treves syndrome, has rarely been described. We report an 81‐year‐old woman who developed multiple, erythematous to purple tumors, located on areas of post mastectomy lymphedema. Histopathological examination evidenced several dermal nodules formed by spindle‐shaped cells that delimitated slit‐like vascular spaces with some red cell extravasation. Immunohistochemically, the human herpesvirus type 8 (HHV‐8) latent nuclear antigen‐1 was detected in the nuclei of most tumoral cells confirming the diagnosis of KS. Lymphedema could promote the development of certain tumors by altering immunocompetence. Although angiosarcoma (AS) is the most frequent neoplasia arising in the setting of chronic lymphedema, other tumors such as benign lymphangiomatous papules (BLAP) or KS can also develop in lymphedematous limbs. It is important to establish the difference between AS and KS because their prognosis and treatment are very different. Identification by immunohistochemistry of HHV‐8 is useful for the distinction between KS and AS or BLAP.
Gamma‐delta T‐cell lymphoma arising in a long‐standing cutaneous plaque
Authors: Ali Liaqat , Young Michelle R. , Bayerl Michael G. , Helm Klaus F. , Clarke Loren E.
Published: August 2015

The precise classification and characterization of primary cutaneous gamma‐delta T‐cell lymphoma (PCGD‐TCL) has been hindered by clinical and morphologic features that overlap with other lymphomas, especially subcutaneous panniculitis‐like T cell lymphoma (SPTCL). The recent World Health Organization/European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer (WHO/EORTC) classification distinguishes the more aggressive PCGD‐TCL from the usually indolent SPTCL, however. We report a 30‐year‐old woman with an indurated violaceous plaque on the left cheek that had been present for several years. Biopsies showed a dense lymphocytic infiltrate involving the subcutis and dermis that consisted mostly of small and medium‐sized lymphocytes, some with irregular nuclear contours and dense chromatin. These cells were positive for TIA‐1, TCR‐gamma and CD8, but negative for beta‐F1 and granzyme‐B. Staging with positron emission tomography–computed tomography (PET/CT), CBC and bone marrow with flow cytometry identified lymphadenopathy as well as blood and marrow involvement by an abnormal TCRgd‐positive T‐cell proliferation (Ann Arbor Stage IV). The patient's history of a long‐standing lesion in this case is unusual, in that gamma‐delta T‐cell lymphomas are typically rapidly progressive neoplasms. As such, it raises the possibility of ‘transformation’ of a long‐standing inflammatory process into an overt lymphoma.
Best Practices in Central Bank Organizational Culture, Learning and Structure: The Case of the Moroccan Central Bank
Authors: Momani Bessma , St. Amand Samantha
Published: August 2015

This paper provides both theoretical and empirical evidence that maintains that a central bank's organizational structure, culture and learning system are important for achieving best governance practices in emerging market economies. It argues that a central bank's organizational structure and culture facilitate the effective implementation of governance practices that have been enacted by law or in a strategic plan, with specific reference to central bank independence, communication, transparency, professionalization, technical excellence and reputation risk management. Qualitative interviews and a review of the bank's primary documents showed that the progress made by the Bank al‐Maghrib over the last two decades in establishing best governance practices in policies and legal statutes is, to a significant extent, being matched by reforms to its internal processes, but there remains room for improvement.
Efficacy and safety of radiofrequency ablation and transcatheter arterial chemoembolization for treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Wang Yulan , Deng Tianxing , Zeng Li , Chen Weiqing
Published: August 2015

Aim

To investigate the efficacy and safety of radiofrequency ablation (RFA) and transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (TACE) for treatment of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

Methods

All eligible studies were collected from PubMed, the Cochrane Libraries and Embase. The evaluation indices included overall survival (OS) rate, recurrence‐free survival rate, local tumor progression rate and major complications. All statistical analysis was performed by RevMan version 5.2 software.

Results

There were 21 studies with 3073 patients included in this meta‐analysis. The RFA monotherapy was associated with higher 3‐ and 5‐year OS rates (OR3‐year = 2.33, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.34–4.05; OR5‐year = 2.05, 95% CI = 1.48–2.85) compared with TACE alone. The combination of RFA and TACE was associated with higher 1‐, 3‐ and 5‐year OS rates (OR1‐year = 1.94, 95% CI = 1.28–2.96; OR3‐year = 1.56, 95% CI = 1.19–2.04; OR5‐year = 1.53, 95% CI = 1.13–2.07) compared with RFA alone.

Conclusion

The combination of TACE with RFA could obviously improve the short‐ and long‐term survival rates and significantly provide a better prognosis for patients with intermediate‐size HCC. RFA was associated with a higher long‐term OS rate than that of TACE‐treated patients with HCC.
Gender and digital privacy: examining determinants of attitude toward digital piracy among youths in an emerging market
Authors: Tjiptono Fandy , Arli Denni , Viviea
Published: August 2015

Digital piracy is rampant in developing countries, including Indonesia. Each year, it has caused billions of dollars of loss to many industries, such as software, video game, film and music industries. The present study aims to examine the determinants of attitude towards digital piracy and to explore whether gender matters in explaining the attitude. A convenience sample of 223 university students in Daerah Istimewa Yogyakarta, Indonesia, participated in the research. The results show that males have a more positive attitude towards digital piracy than females. The determinants of attitude towards digital piracy among female consumers are affective beliefs, perceived importance of digital piracy issue and Machiavellianism, while the predictors for the male counterparts include affective beliefs, perceived importance of digital piracy issue and moral judgment.
Residential and occupational exposure to pesticides may increase risk for cutaneous melanoma: a case–control study conducted in the south of Brazil
Authors: Segatto Majoriê M. , Bonamigo Renan R. , Hohmann Clarissa B. , Müller Karen Reetz , Bakos Lucio , Mastroeni Simona , Fortes Cristina
Published: August 2015

Background

Incidences of primary cutaneous melanoma (CM) have risen over the last few decades, mainly among populations of White European extraction. Some risk factors for melanoma have been clearly established, but other potential risk factors, such as exposure to pesticides, are currently under study.

Methods

A case–control study on melanoma was conducted during 2012 and 2013 at three dermatological reference centers in Porto Alegre, Brazil. A total of 191 CM patients and sex‐ and age‐matched control subjects were enrolled in the study. Data on domestic and occupational use of pesticides and the risk factors already established for CM were collected. Multivariate logistic regression was used to study the association between exposure to pesticides and melanoma risk.

Results

Subjects exposed to pesticides had twice the level of risk for melanoma (odds ratio [OR] 2.03, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.03–6.89). When pesticides were used indoors for >10 years, the risk for CM increased further (OR 2.84, 95% CI 1.56–5.33). A high frequency of indoor use of pesticides (four or more times per year) was associated with a 44% increase in the risk for melanoma (OR 1.44, 95% CI 1.11–3.49). The domestic use of pesticides outdoors was not associated with increased risk. Subjects exposed to pesticides at an occupational level were at four times greater risk than subjects who were not occupationally exposed (OR 4.23, 95% CI 1.94–6.31).

Conclusions

These findings indicate that the general use of pesticides, particularly indoor domestic use, frequently and over a long period, may be an independent environmental risk factor for CM.
Multiple cutaneous lymphoproliferative disorders showing a retained tumor clone by T‐cell receptor gene rearrangement analysis: a case series of four patients and review of the literature
Authors: Stowman Anne M. , Hsia Ling‐Lun , Kanner William A. , Mahadevan Mani S. , Bullock Grant C. , Patterson James W.
Published: August 2015

Background

Mycosis fungoides (MF) is the most common primary cutaneous T‐cell lymphoma (CTCL), followed by CD30+ lymphoproliferative disorders, including lymphomatoid papulosis (LyP) and primary cutaneous anaplastic large cell lymphoma (pcALCL). The objective was to report on a series of patients with different types of CTCL at different times in their clinical course, with a focus on clonality studies.

Methods

Four patients with multiple diagnoses of CTCLs were identified. The clinical information, treatment interventions, and histopathology were reviewed. T‐cell receptor (TCR) gene rearrangement studies were performed on all available specimens.

Results

The four patients carried diagnoses of: (1) pcALCL and MF; (2) pcALCL, LyP, and pcALCL; (3) LyP, MF, and pcALCL; (4) LyP, pcALCL, and MF; each with characteristic presentation and histopathologic findings. The results of the TCR polymerase chain reaction showed that all tumors expressed and retained a TCR clone(s) as follows: (1) biallelic clone; (2) single clone; (3) biallelic clone with additional clone; and (4) single clone, respectively.

Conclusion

We report a series of four cases of individual patients with coexisting diagnoses of some combination of MF, LyP, and pcALCL, whose lesions presented in nontraditional sequence and demonstrated a retained clone by gene rearrangement analysis.
Effects of tidal height and wave exposure on cirrus and penis morphology of the acorn barnacle Tetraclita stalactifera
Authors: Hoch J. Matthew , Reyes Kevin V.
Published: August 2015

Exposure to wave action and other environmental factors can alter the morphology of intertidal barnacles. We tested several hypotheses on the causes of morphological variation in the cirri and penises of the barnacle Tetraclita stalactifera at sites differing in wave exposure, at different heights in the intertidal zone, and at different levels of population density. Unlike many other acorn barnacle species, cirrus and penis characteristics did not correspond to differences in wave exposure or crowding. However, barnacles from higher tidal elevations had thicker cirri and thicker penises than those from lower elevations. Because of reduced time submerged at higher elevations, increased thickness may be a means of compensating for reduced feeding and mating opportunity by allowing for continued feeding and mating attempts during periods of greater wave action. Our observations of differences in cirrus and penis morphology suggest that phenotypic plasticity in penis and cirrus characteristics are adaptations shared by the species T. stalactifera and other acorn barnacles, but that T. stalactifera responds differently to environmental stimuli than do other species.
Dispersal traits drive the phylogenetic distance decay of similarity in Neotropical stream metacommunities
Authors: Saito Victor S. , Soininen Janne , Fonseca‐Gessner Alaide A. , Siqueira Tadeu
Published: August 2015

Aim

The drivers of phylogenetic beta diversity include both local processes (e.g. environmental filtering) and regional processes (e.g. dispersal limitation). The role of environmental filtering can be investigated more directly by analysing community–environment associations, but dispersal limitation is one of the most challenging processes to examine. We investigated the role of traits related to dispersal – flight capacity, body size and voltinism – as drivers of phylogenetic distance decay relationships in Neotropical stream insect communities.

Location

Headwater streams spread over 600 km in south‐eastern Brazil.

Methods

We compiled a data set of aquatic insect communities inhabiting streams across the State of São Paulo (Brazil). Then, we investigated environmental and spatial signals on phylobetadiversity patterns of aquatic insects using Mantel tests, multiple regressions on distance matrices and variation partitioning. We employed null models to investigate whether phylogenetic distance decay differed from pure compositional distance decay. We deconstructed the data set based on dispersal‐related traits; we then ran distance decay analyses for these subsets separately.

Results

Geographical distance, rather than environmental distance, better explained the patterns of phylobetadiversity. We found that the phylogenetic decay relationship differed from the relationship expected for the null models only for univoltine, large‐bodied genera with a high‐flight capacity.

Main conclusions

Dispersal limitation, rather than species sorting, was the main driver for phylogenetic beta diversity in the metacommunity that we studied. We suggest that life‐history strategies and mainly voltinism drive the distance decay of similarity in the insect communities examined. We additionally discuss the role of dispersal events over time to explain differences in distance decay patterns among tropical and other regions.
Efficacy of canagliflozin combined with antidiabetic drugs in treating type 2 diabetes mellitus: Meta‐analysis of randomized control trials
Authors: Meng Qi , Shen Yun , Liu Dajin , Jiang Fei
Published: August 2015

Aims/Introduction

Canagliflozin has been proposed as an effective treatment for type 2 diabetes. This meta‐analysis of randomized control trials aimed to evaluate the effect of canagliflozin combined with other hypoglycemic drugs.

Materials and Methods

We searched Medline, Embase, Cochrane Library, Google Scholar and ClinicalTrials.gov for randomized control trials comparing canagliflozin combined with conventional antidiabetic drugs vs placebo. Our main end‐points were glycemic control and change in weight. We assessed pooled data by use of a random‐effects model.

Result

Of 161 identified studies, six were eligible and were included in our analysis (n = 4670 participants). Compared with the placebo, mean changes in glycosylated hemoglobin were −0.60% (95% confidence interval −0.67 to −0.54%; I2 = 0%) for canagliflozin 100 mg, and −0.76% (95% confidence interval −0.84 to −0.68%; I2 = 20%) for canagliflozin 300 mg with bodyweight loss.

Conclusion

Canagliflozin as an add‐on drug to other antidiabetic drugs effectively lowers blood glucose without significant weight gain.
Development and validation of a novel patient‐reported treatment satisfaction measure for hyperfunctional facial lines: facial line satisfaction questionnaire
Authors: Pompilus Farrah , Burgess Somali , Hudgens Stacie , Banderas Benjamin , Daniels Selena
Published: August 2015

Background

Facial lines or wrinkles are among the most visible signs of aging, and minimally invasive cosmetic procedures are becoming increasingly popular.

Aims

The aim of this study was to develop and validate the Facial Line Satisfaction Questionnaire (FLSQ) for use in adults with upper facial lines (UFL).

Methods

A literature review, concept elicitation interviews (n = 33), and cognitive debriefing interviews (n = 23) of adults with UFL were conducted to develop the FLSQ. The FLSQ comprises Baseline and Follow‐up versions and was field‐tested with 150 subjects in a US observational study designed to assess its psychometric performance. Analyses included acceptability (item and scale distribution [i.e. missingness, floor, and ceiling effects]), reliability, and validity (including concurrent validity).

Results

In total, 69 concepts were elicited during patient interviews. Following cognitive debriefing interviews, the FLSQ‐Baseline version included 11 items and the Follow‐up version included 13 items. Response rates for the FLSQ were 100% and 73% at baseline and follow‐up, respectively; no items had excessive missing data. Questionnaire scale scores were normally distributed. Most domain scores demonstrated good internal consistency reliability (Cronbach's α ≥ 0.70). Most items within their respective domains exhibited good convergent (item‐scale correlations > 0.40) and discriminant (items had higher correlation with their hypothesized scales than other scales) validity. Concurrent validity correlation coefficients of the FLSQ domain scores with the associated concurrent measures were acceptable (range: r = 0.40–0.70). Six FLSQ items demonstrated reliability and validity as stand‐alone items outside their domains.

Conclusions

The FLSQ is a valid questionnaire for assessing treatment expectations, satisfaction, impact, and preference in adults with UFL.
Teaching and learning in the Biosciences: the development of an educational programme to assist student nurses in their assessment and management of patients with wounds
Authors: Redmond Catherine , Davies Carmel , Cornally Deirdre , Fegan Marianne , O'Toole Margaret
Published: August 2015

Aims and objectives

The aim of this project was to develop an educational package for undergraduate student nurses that would provide them with the theoretical knowledge and clinical judgement skills to care for a patient with a wound.

Background

Internationally there is concern over the adequacy of preparation of undergraduate nurses for the clinical skill of wound care. Deficits have also been identified in the underpinning biological sciences needed for this skill. Expectations associated with wound management have altered significantly in the last two decades with decision making around wound care coming under the scope of practice of nurses. The treatment and care options for patients with wounds must be based on a sound knowledge of how wounds are formed and healed. If nurses do not have the evidence‐based knowledge, it can affect wound healing adversely leading to increased patient suffering, pain and delayed healing. From an organisational perspective, delayed healing will increase the cost of care.

Design

This project used constructivism learning theory to provide a framework for the development of a wound care educational package for undergraduate Irish nurses in their penultimate year of training.

Methods

Collaboration was formed with key stake holders. Pertinent curriculum content was mapped. Learning strategies to suit the incoming student learning styles were incorporated into newly developed theoretical content and practical skill sessions.

Conclusion

The developed educational programme will assist student nurses in their care of patients with wounds.

Relevance to clinical practice

This study provides a model that can be followed to develop small units of the study to keep abreast of changes in health care delivery and the changing scope of practice of nurses. It also contributes to the debate on the teaching and learning of biosciences as it highlights the depth of biological knowledge required as a basis for good evidence‐based nursing care.
Barriers to cervical cancer screening experienced by lesbian women: a qualitative study
Authors: Curmi Claire , Peters Kath , Salamonson Yenna
Published: August 2015

Aims and objectives

To provide deeper insights into the experiences of lesbian women in accessing cervical cancer screening and to inform strategies to increase the uptake of these services for this group of women.

Background

Lesbian women continue to face significant health disparities and are at increased risk for specific medical conditions. With cervical cancer being largely a preventable disease, early detection through the Papanicolaou test is crucial, as it enables treatment to commence early and limit the progression of the disease. Although the rates of cervical abnormalities among lesbian women are similar to that of the general population, lesbian women are less likely to have regular cervical screening. The reasons for this are largely unknown and there is a paucity of research that explores cervical cancer screening in lesbian women.

Design

Qualitative descriptive design.

Methods

Participants (n = 9) were recruited via media release and those living in New South Wales who self‐identified as lesbian, meeting the inclusion criteria were recruited for the study. Semi‐structured, face to face and telephone interviews were used to obtain narrative data from lesbian women on their experiences of cervical screening.

Results

Three main themes emerged from the data: ‘Lack of opportunistic screening’; ‘Fear of penetration’ and ‘Encountering heterosexism and discrimination’.

Conclusions

This current study builds on existing knowledge and further, has identified issues that have not been previously raised in the literature. New findings from this study highlight participants' fear of penetration, and stigma associated with accessing information, as substantial barriers to cervical screening.

Relevance to clinical practice

This study's findings can guide future research and highlight possibilities for specific strategies to reduce health disparities among lesbian women.
Nurses' perceptions of their professional practice environment: a cross‐sectional study
Authors: Cao Yingjuan , DiGiacomo Michelle , Salamonson Yenna , Li Ye , Huai Baosha , Davidson Patricia M
Published: August 2015

Aims and objectives

To describe nurses’ perceptions concerning their professional practice environment in mainland China and identify factors associated with these views.

Background

Globally, the environments in which nurses work influence the quality of nursing practice and health care.

Design

A cross‐sectional descriptive survey using both paper‐ and online‐based delivery modes was used.

Method

A convenience sampling method was used. The survey questionnaire was composed of sociodemographic items and the 38‐item Chinese version of Professional Practice Environment survey. The content of the paper‐based questionnaire was identical to the online survey. Pearson's chi‐square test was conducted to compare the demographic characteristics of these two data sets. Descriptive statistics analysis included frequency, percentage, mean and standard deviation. Multiple linear regression analysis using the Backwards method was applied to identify independent predictors of each subscale of the 38‐item Chinese version of Professional Practice Environment.

Results

A total of 573 questionnaires were analysed. The mean score of each subscale of the 38‐item Chinese version of Professional Practice Environment in this study ranged from 2·66–3·05. All subscales except work motivation (3·05, standard deviation: 0·44) scored less than 3·0. Areas rated as most in need of improvement included control over practice, interpersonal interaction, supportive leadership and handling conflict, and staff relationships with physicians and autonomy.

Conclusion

This study has identified nurses’ perspectives regarding their workplaces in contemporary China. These data have provided an important baseline for developing and implementing culturally appropriate strategies to improve the working environment of Chinese nurses.

Relevance to clinical practice

A supportive and enabling work environment promotes professional development and the safety and quality of health care. Addressing these factors is important in optimising work place environments.
Barriers and Facilitators to Cervical Cancer Screening Among Women in Rural Ontario, Canada: The Role of Self‐Collected HPV Testing
Authors: Racey C. Sarai , Gesink Dionne C.
Published: August 2015

Purpose

The addition of human papillomavirus (HPV) testing to primary cervical cancer screening provides an opportunity to employ less invasive cervical cancer screening modalities. The objective of this study was to explore the initial reaction and perception to HPV self‐collected testing, in the context of current barriers and facilitators to cervical cancer screening, among women in an underscreened community in rural Ontario.

Methods

Age‐stratified focus groups were conducted with women 18‐70 years of age in rural Ontario to discuss cervical cancer screening. Women were recruited using purposive sampling of underscreened women and women in the general community. Qualitative thematic analysis of focus group transcripts identified the barriers, facilitators, and role of HPV self‐collected testing for cervical cancer screening.

Results

Four focus groups were conducted with a total of 25 women. Overall, women were very positive toward self‐collected HPV testing. HPV self‐collected testing was felt to address many of the logistical (eg, inconvenient clinic hours, lack of time) and procedural barriers (embarrassment, lack of social distance in a small town) to current screening practices. However, self‐collected HPV testing does not address barriers related to cervical cancer knowledge (eg, fear of cancer). Women identified issues related to test reliability, confidence in the ability to self‐collect, and education around testing that would need to be addressed prior to implementation. Generational differences were noted in the acceptability of self‐collected HPV testing between older and younger women.

Conclusions

HPV self‐collected testing was perceived as a facilitator for screening, and it was well accepted in this rural community.
Pharmacokinetic profiles of meloxicam in turtles (Trachemys scripta scripta) after single oral, intracoelomic and intramuscular administrations
Authors: Di Salvo A. , Giorgi M. , Catanzaro A. , Deli G. , della Rocca G.
Published: August 2015

Meloxicam is an anti‐inflammatory and analgesic drug used to treat many pathological conditions in turtles. With the aim to fill the lack of data about its pharmacokinetic in this species, eighteen turtles (Trachemys scripta scripta) were divided in three groups and treated with a single dose of meloxicam (0.2 mg/kg) by intramuscular, intracoelomic and oral route, respectively. At scheduled time points, blood samples were collected and meloxicam concentrations were determined by HPLC. Pharmacokinetic parameters were calculated from the obtained concentration–time curves. After intramuscular treatment, a plasma peak of meloxicam equal to 1590.03 ± 1845.32 ng/mL (mean ± SD) and a Tmax of 1.17 ± 0.45 h were reached, indicating a quick absorption of the drug. The intracoelomic administration brought to the largest AUC (12621.04 ± 6203.79 h*ng/mL) and to a Cmax and a Tmax equal to 1154.52 ± 662.78 ng/mL and 2.82 ± 1.39 h, respectively. Following oral treatment, the plasma concentrations of meloxicam were very low indicating a scarce absorption. Further studies are warranted to determine the effective plasma concentration of meloxicam in turtles and, consequently, the dosage regimen.
The common PNPLA3 variant p.I148M is associated with liver fat contents as quantified by controlled attenuation parameter (CAP)
Authors: Arslanow Anita , Stokes Caroline S. , Weber Susanne N. , Grünhage Frank , Lammert Frank , Krawczyk Marcin
Published: August 2015

Background

Non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is becoming the most prevalent liver disorder. The PNPLA3 (adiponutrin) variant p.I148M has been identified as common genetic modifier of NAFLD. Our aim was to assess the relationships between genetic risk and non‐invasively measured liver fat content.

Methods

Hepatic steatosis was quantified by transient elastography, using the controlled attenuation parameter (CAP) in 174 patients with chronic liver diseases (50% women, age 18–77 years). In addition, a cohort of 174 gender‐matched healthy controls (50% women, age 32–77 years) was recruited. The PNPLA3 mutation as well as the novel NAFLD‐predisposing genetic variant (TM6SF2 p.E167K) were genotyped with allele‐specific probes.

Results

The PNPLA3 genotype correlated significantly (P = 0.001) with hepatic CAP measurements. The p.148M risk allele increased the odds of developing liver steatosis (OR = 2.39, P = 0.023). In multivariate models, BMI and PNPLA3 mutation were both independently associated with CAP values (P < 0.001 and P = 0.007, respectively). Carriers of the TM6SF2 risk allele presented with increased aminotransferase activities (ALT: P = 0.007, AST: P = 0.004), but the presence of this variant did not affect CAP values.

Conclusions

The PNPLA3 p.I148M variant represents the most important prosteatotic genetic risk factor. NAFLD carriers of this variant should be followed up carefully, with elastography and CAP being ideally suited for this purpose.
The Personal Politics of Same‐Sex Marriage
Authors: Burnett Craig M. , King Aaron S.
Published: August 2015

Research on attitudes toward gay people and same‐sex marriage finds that individuals who know a gay person in their immediate personal network are not only more likely to view gay people positively but also support same‐sex marriage. Here we examine whether this result extends to an individual's stance toward specific ballot measures regarding same‐sex marriage across different social and political climates ranging from the conservative South to the liberal Pacific Northwest. Using survey data collected in three states that considered banning or approving same‐sex marriage during the 2012 election cycle, we analyze the hypothesis that a personal relationship with a gay person affects an individual's vote choice on a ballot measure with actual policy consequences. In the end, we find mixed results across the three states. Our results suggest the importance of state‐level variation in the social climate that may temper the effect of contact.

Related Articles

Barth, Jay, and
Janine Parry. 2009. “.” Politics & Policy 37 (): 31‐50. http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1747‐1346.2007.00160.x/abstract

Bramlett, Brittany. 2012. “.” Politics & Policy 40 (): 13‐42. http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1747‐1346.2011.00337.x/abstract

Skipworth, Sue Ann,
Andrew Garner, and
Bryan J. Dettrey. 2010. “.” Politics & Policy 38 (): 887‐906. http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1747‐1346.2010.00262.x/abstract

Related Media

Cotner, Ben, and
Ryan White. HBO Documentary. http://thecaseagainst8.com/

2015. “Same‐Sex Marriage Laws.” http://www.ncsl.org/research/human‐services/same‐sex‐marriage‐laws.aspx
‘I have the world's best job’ – staff experience of the advantages of caring for older people
Authors: Eldh Ann Catrine , van der Zijpp Teatske , McMullan Christel , McCormack Brendan , Seers Kate , Rycroft‐Malone Jo
Published: August 2015

Rationale

Besides a growing demand for safe high‐quality care for older people, long‐term care (LTC) often struggles to recruit appropriately qualified nursing staff. Understanding what LTC staff value in their work may contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of what can attract staff and support person‐centred care.

Aim

To explore staff experience of the advantages of working in LTC settings for older people.

Methods

Narrative descriptions of 85 LTC staff in Ireland, the Netherlands and Sweden on what they value in their work were analysed with qualitative content analysis.

Ethics

Ethical approval was obtained according to the requirements of each country, and participants provided informed consent prior to the individual interviews.

Findings

Working in LTC signifies bonding with the older people residing there, their next of kin and the team members. It means autonomy in one's daily tasks amalgamated with being a part of an affirmative team. Participants reported a sense of accomplishment and fulfilment; caring meant consideration and recognition of the older people and the relationships formed, which provided for professional and personal growth. The sharing of compassion between staff and residents indicated reciprocity of the relationship with residents.

Study limitations

The findings may be transferable to LTC in general although they address only the positive aspects of caring for older people and only the experiences of those staff who had consented to take part in the study.

Conclusions

The findings add to what underpins the quality of care in nursing homes: compassion in the nurse–resident relationship and person‐centred care in LTC. They indicate reciprocity in the relations formed that may contribute to the empowerment of older people, but further studies are needed to explore this in more detail.
A novel HLA‐B allele, HLA‐B*58:66
Authors: Zhu X. , Yang T. , Tan R. , Su P. , Luo Z. , Gao H.
Published: August 2015

HLA‐B*58:66 differs from B*58:01:01 by a single‐synonymous nucleotide at position 685 where G → T (codon 205 GCC → TCC, Ala>Ser).
THE MODERN STUDY OF MYTH AND ITS RELATION TO SCIENCE
Authors: Segal Robert A.
Published: August 2015

The history of the modern study of myth can be divided into two main categories: that which sees myth as the primitive counterpart to natural science, itself considered overwhelmingly modern, and that which sees myth as almost anything but the primitive counterpart to natural science. The first category constitutes the nineteenth‐century approach to myth. The second category constitutes the twentieth‐century approach. Tylor and Frazer epitomize the nineteenth‐century view. Malinowski, Eliade, Bultmann, Jonas, Camus, Freud, and Jung epitomize the twentieth‐century approach. The question for the twenty‐first century is whether myth can be brought back to the physical world, but in a way compatible with science. The case of the myth of Gaia will be considered as a possible way of doing so.