bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring and Enhancing the Anti‐Inflammatory Properties of Polymeric Formula
Authors: Alhagamhmad Moftah H. , Day Andrew S. , Lemberg Daniel A. , Leach Steven T.
Published: January 2016

Background: Exclusive enteral nutrition (EEN) therapy using a polymeric formula (PF) can substantially attenuate intestinal inflammation in Crohn's disease (CD) patients. However, the mechanism(s) by which EEN suppresses inflammation are not yet fully understood. The aims were to examine cellular mechanism(s) through which EEN may suppress inflammation and investigate potential pathways to enhance anti‐inflammatory properties of EEN. Methods: Glutamine, arginine, vitamin D3, and α linolenic acid (ALA), present in PF, along with curcumin, were identified as immunoactive nutrient therapies. Tumor necrosis factor (TNF)–α–exposed HT‐29 colonic epithelial cells were used to investigate the immunosuppressive activity of the nutrients by assessing their effect on cell viability, cell activity, chemokine response (interleukin‐8 [IL‐8]), nuclear factor (NF)–κB, P38 mitogen‐activated protein kinase, IκB kinase (Iκκ), and nitric oxide (NO). Results: Cellular viability and activity were maintained with all nutrient treatments. Glutamine, arginine, and vitamin D3, but not ALA, significantly attenuated IL‐8 production. Glutamine and arginine led to phosphorylation blockade of the signaling components in NF‐κB and P38 pathways, reduction in kinase activity, and enhancement in NO production. Combining glutamine, arginine, and curcumin at optimal concentrations completely abolished the IL‐8 response. Conclusions: These data indicate that glutamine, arginine, and vitamin D3 can suppress inflammation at concentrations equivalent to those used in PF. The mechanisms of this action were mediated through influencing the NF‐κB and P38 cascades. Glutamine and arginine‐fortified PF with curcumin might be a promising option to enhance the effectiveness and expand the scope of EEN therapy in CD treatment.
Improved Glucose Profile in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes With a New, High‐Protein, Diabetes‐Specific Tube Feed During 4 Hours of Continuous Feeding
Authors: Lansink Mirian , Hofman Zandrie , Genovese Stefano , Rouws Carlette H. F. C. , Ceriello Antonio
Published: January 2016

Background: Hyperglycemia frequently occurs in hospitalized patients receiving nutrition support. In this study, the effects of a new diabetes‐specific formula (DSF) on glucose profile during 4 hours of continuous feeding and 4 hours after stopping feeding were compared with a standard formula (SF). Materials and Methods: In this randomized, controlled, double‐blind, crossover study, ambulant, nonhospitalized patients with type 2 diabetes received the DSF or an isocaloric, fiber‐containing SF via a nasogastric tube. After overnight fasting, the formula was continuously administered to the patients during 4 hours. Plasma glucose and insulin concentrations were determined during the 4‐hour period and in the subsequent 4 hours during which no formula was provided. Results: During the 4‐hour feeding period, DSF compared with SF resulted in a lower mean delta glucose concentration in the 3‐ to 4‐hour period (0.3 ± 1.0 and 2.4 ± 1.5 mmol/L; P < .001). Also, the (delta) peak concentrations, (delta) mean concentrations, and incremental area under the curve (iAUC) for glucose and insulin were significantly lower during DSF compared with SF feeding (all comparisons: P < .001). Furthermore, fewer patients experienced hyperglycemia (>10 mmol/L) on DSF compared with SF (2 vs 11, P = .003, respectively). No differences in number of patients with hypoglycemia (<3.9 mmol/L) were observed. No significant differences in tolerance were observed. Conclusion: Administration of a new, high‐protein DSF during 4 hours of continuous feeding resulted in lower glucose and insulin levels compared with a fiber‐containing SF in ambulant, nonhospitalized patients with type 2 diabetes. These data suggest that a DSF may contribute to lower glucose levels in these patients.
Utility of Aminotransferase/Platelet Ratio Index to Predict Liver Fibrosis in Intestinal Failure–Associated Liver Disease in Pediatric Patients
Authors: Rumbo Carolina , Martinez María Inés , Cabanne Ana , Trentadue Julio , Fernández Adriana , Gondolesi Gabriel
Published: January 2016

Background: Intestinal failure–associated liver disease (IFALD) is a frequent indication for intestinal transplantation. Liver biopsy (LBX) is the gold standard test for its diagnosis. Identifying noninvasive markers of fibrosis progression would be of considerable clinical use. Aspartate aminotransferase/platelet ratio index (APRI) has a good correlation in adult patients with chronic liver disease; few studies have been performed in children with IFALD. Aim: To evaluate APRI in a cohort of children with IFALD. Materials and Methods: Retrospective analysis of a prospective database of patients <18 years with severe intestinal failure and at least 1 LBX, registered in our unit from March 2006 to December 2014. Results: Forty‐nine LBX were done on 36 patients: 20 were male, and 31 had short gut. Fibrosis was found in 71% of LBX. Biopsies were grouped according to the fibrosis stage (METAVIR [M]): (1) group 1 (G1) LBX with M 0, 1, 2 (n = 33) and (2) group 2 (G2) LBX with M 3, 4 (n = 16). The median APRI score was 0.92 (interquartile range [IQR] 0.63–1.50) for G1 and 2.50 (IQR 1.81–5.82) for G2 (P = .001) The c statistic of the receiving operating characteristic curve was 0.79 (95% CI 0.64–0.94; P < .001). The analyses allowed identifying a cutoff value for APRI of 1.6 as the point with the best sensitivity (81%) and specificity (76%) to predict advanced fibrosis. Conclusions: APRI in this cohort of patients shows that a score >1.6 correlates with advanced fibrosis.
Market Meets Community: Institutional Logics as Strategic Resources for Development Work
Authors: Venkataraman Hemalatha , Vermeulen Patrick , Raaijmakers Aafke , Mair Johanna
Published: January 2016

We investigate how an intermediary organization, PRADAN, introduces and promotes market-based activities in tribal villages as a means to improve the social and economic conditions of rural women and their families in two districts in India. We draw from the literature on institutional logics and focus on the strategies and activities of PRADAN – an NGO working in poor rural areas in Northern India – to show how PRADAN instrumentally used a market logic and a community logic to develop new social structures in these rural communities. Moreover, we show what effect this had on beneficiaries and their families and how difficult it has been to convince rural communities and gain their trust. On the basis of these findings we show how logics can be deployed as a means to alter institutional arrangements. We find that the simultaneous enactment of both community and market logics was critical in the development of new social structures (Self-Help Groups). Finally, we show how the introduction of market-based activities by PRADAN is best understood as an ongoing and staged process that strongly builds on a continuous interplay of multiple logics.
Coopetition as a Paradox: Integrative Approaches in a Multi-Company, Cross-Sector Partnership
Authors: Stadtler Lea , Van Wassenhove Luk N.
Published: January 2016

Coopetition is paradoxical in that the simultaneous cooperation and competition can give rise to important synergies as well as tensions. To circumvent these tensions, scholars primarily suggest structural, separation-centred strategies. Such strategies are helpful, but incomplete, as total separation would not allow exploitation of the synergies that coopetition may offer. Based on an in-depth case study of a pioneering multi-company, cross-sector partnership, we explore how employees cope with the remaining tensions. Illustrating employees’ sense-making processes, we show how they build on the organisational and the boundary-spanning task contexts and develop paradoxical frames. Juxtaposing the competitive and collaborative logics, these frames shape the employees’ understanding of who they are (i.e. a nested identity) and what they should do (i.e. contextual segmentation). This juxtaposition allows the employees to navigate emerging tensions by adopting both logics (i.e. integrating behaviour) and by contextually prioritising one logic without ignoring the other (i.e. demarcating behaviour). These insights complement structural strategies with integrative, employee-centred ones and highlight contextual factors that promote such an integrative approach.
Gender Differences in Identities and Their Sociostructural Correlates: How Gendered Lives Shape Parental and Work Identities
Authors: Gaunt Ruth , Scott Jacqueline
Published: January 2016

This study draws on identity theory to explore parental and work identities. It examined gender differences in identities, as well as the moderating role of gender in the effects of individuals’ sociostructural characteristics. A sample of 148 couples with young children completed extensive questionnaires. As hypothesized, couples’ paid-work strategy moderated gender differences in the salience and centrality of parental and work identities. Whereas significant differences in identities were found between stay-at-home mothers and their breadwinning husbands, no differences were found among dual-earner couples. Moreover, men’s work identity centrality increased when they had more and younger children, whereas women’s work identity centrality decreased. Finally, men’s parental identity centrality increased with their income, whereas women’s parental identity centrality decreased the more they earned. These findings attest to the importance of examining differences within as well as between genders, by taking into account the interactive effects of gender with other sociostructural characteristics.
Kafka and Deleuze/Guattari: Towards a Creative Critical Writing Practice
Authors: Ståhl Ola
Published: January 2016

Drawing upon the work of Gilles Deleuze and Félix Guattari, in particular their writing on Franz Kafka, this article stakes out the ground for a creative critical writing practice beyond the confines of literature. Exploring the notion of writing in relation to affect constellations, what causes one to write, and expressions without content, how one begins to write, the argument put forth is that in rethinking the distinction Deleuze and Guattari tend to make between artistic practice and philosophical thought, a space is opened up for transversal lines that may cross between these fields in practices that are creative and critical and involve what Deleuze and Guattari refer to as aesthetic figures as well as conceptual personae. These practices, it is argued, provide a potential link between aesthetics, on the one hand, and ethics and politics, on the other.
Motherhood, mobility and materiality: Material entanglements, journey-making and the process of ‘becoming mother’
Authors: Boyer Kate , Spinney Justin
Published: January 2016

This paper is about the entanglements or mutually affecting engagements with the material world that occur in the course of trying to becoming mobile with a small baby. Drawing on a rigorous empirical base of 37 interviews with 20 families in East London, we analyse the relationships between discourses of parenting and the material practices of journey-making. Bringing together conceptual work on the new materialism and mobility studies, we advance the concept of mother–baby assemblages as a way to understand mobile motherhood, and consider the emotional and affective dimensions of parenting in public that emerge through journey-making. We argue that the transition to motherhood occurs in part through entanglements with the more than human in the course of becoming mobile (including matter, affects, policies and built form). We further argue that approaching motherhood from the perspective of material entanglements advances geographical scholarship by deepening our understanding of mobility as a relational practice. Finally, we extend conceptual work in Geography as a whole by showing the utility of new materialist philosophy as a means for theorising identity.
Bullying and harassment and work-related stressors: Evidence from British small and medium enterprises
Authors: Lewis Duncan , Megicks Phil , Jones Paul
Published: January 2016

This article examines the relationship between work-related stressors and bullying and harassment in British small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs). Using representative data from a national survey on employment rights and experiences (Fair Treatment at Work), this research identifies that bullying and harassment are just as prevalent in British SMEs as in larger organisations. Drawing upon the Management Standards of the Health and Safety Executive, a number of significant relationships with bullying and harassment are established. Work demands placed upon employees are positively related to bullying and harassment behaviours, while autonomy, manager support, peer support and clarity of role are negatively associated with such behaviours. The study considers implications for human resource practices in SMEs, and the risks of informal attitudes to these work-related stressors in contemporary workplaces are discussed.
Transient neurologic event following administration of foam sclerotherapy
Authors: Malvehy Mario Albert , Asbjornsen Cindy
Published: January 2016

This report describes a complication of symptoms consistent with transient ischemic attack following administration of physician-compounded foam sclerotherapy created with room air. After intravenous administration of 8 cc of foam sclerosant prepared with room air and polidocanol using the Tessari method, an otherwise healthy man experienced transient neurologic changes. Immediately following injection of foam, a dense hemiplegia consistent with interruption of the middle cerebral arterial circulation was observed. The patient’s symptoms resolved completely over approximately 30 min with interventions including Trendelenburg positioning and supplemental oxygen via nasal cannula. PCP foam sclerotherapy with room air administered in typical concentrations, preparations, and volumes may result in severe neurologic events in otherwise healthy individuals. Continued investigation into the potential role of product, gas, volume and technique to identify optimal approaches may further refine the consistency and safety of foam sclerotherapy.
Development and validation of parallel short forms PaSA-cardio for the assessment of general anxiety in cardiovascular rehabilitation patients using Rasch analysis
Authors: Abberger Birgit , Haschke Anne , Tully Phillip J , Forkmann Thomas , Berger Janna , Wirtz Markus , Bengel Juergen , Baumeister Harald
Published: January 2016

Objective:

To develop and validate parallel short forms for the assessment of general anxiety in cardiovascular rehabilitation patients, that facilitate repeated measurement over time without contamination from residual practice effect variance.

Design:

Development of the parallel short forms using Rasch analysis. Validation study.

Setting:

Cardiac rehabilitation centres in Germany.

Subjects:

Cardiovascular rehabilitation patients.

Interventions:

Not applicable.

Main measures:

Parallel short forms PaSA-cardio, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, Short Form Health Survey SF-12 and Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-IV Axis I Disorders.

Results:

Each version of the parallel short forms (PaSA-cardio-I and PaSA-cardio-II) comprises ten items. The two forms fitted to the Rasch model with a non-significant item–trait interaction (PaSA-cardio-I: chi-square = 39.49, degrees of freedom = 30, probability = 0.12; PaSA-cardio-II: chi-square = 26.56, degrees of freedom = 30, probability = 0.65). Person-separation reliability was 0.75/0.76. Unidimensionality could be verified. Correlation between the two models was 0.94 and 0.95, and correlations with the underlying item bank were 0.95 and 0.93. Validity could be confirmed. The area under the curve was between 0.88 and 0.97 for PaSA-cardio-I and between 0.92 and 0.95 for PaSA-cardio-II.

Conclusions:

Assessment of general anxiety in cardiovascular rehabilitation patients with the PaSA-cardio was valid, economical and accurate. The two forms of the PaSA-cardio are equivalent and allow retest without contamination from residual practice effect variance.
Trends in Empirical Aesthetics
Authors: Greb Fabian , Elvers Paul , Fischinger Timo
Published: January 2016

This article evaluates trends in empirical aesthetics by systematically reviewing the contents of the journal Empirical Studies of the Arts from its first issue in 1983 up to 2014. To sufficiently capture the wide distribution of art divisions, diverse approaches, and variety of methods involved in empirical aesthetics, 398 articles were examined in the following three categories: Art Domains, Topics, and Methods. In a second step, all 38 music-related articles were reviewed in terms of study design, participants, stimuli, analysis methods, results, and their relation to the field of empirical aesthetics. Based on this, distributions and longitudinal developments within the journal were identified and assessments regarding their relation to empirical aesthetics with special emphasis on music were made.
Intelligence and Musical Mode Preference
Authors: Bonetti Leonardo , Costa Marco
Published: January 2016

The relationship between fluid intelligence and preference for major–minor musical mode was investigated in a sample of 80 university students. Intelligence was assessed by the Raven’s Advanced Progressive Matrices. Musical mode preference was assessed by presenting 14 pairs of musical stimuli that varied only in mode. Mood and personality were assessed, respectively, by the Brief Mood Introspection Scale and the Big Five Questionnaire. Preference for minor stimuli was related positively and significantly to fluid intelligence and openness to experience. The results add evidence of individual differences at the cognitive and personality level related to the enjoyment of sad music.
Using Japanese Onomatopoeias to Explore Perceptual Dimensions in Visual Material Perception
Authors: Hanada Mitsuhiko
Published: January 2016

This study examined the perceptual dimensions of visual material properties. Photographs of 50 objects were presented to the participants, and they reported a suitable onomatopoeia (mimetic word) for describing the material of the object in each photograph, based on visual appearance. The participants’ responses were collated into a contingency table of photographs × onomatopoeias. After removing some items from the table, correspondence analysis was applied to the contingency table, and a six-dimensional biplot was obtained. By rotating the axes to maximize sparseness of the coordinates for the items in the biplot, three meaningful perceptual dimensions were derived: wetness/stickiness, fluffiness/softness, and smoothness–roughness/gloss-dullness. Two additional possible dimensions were obtained: crumbliness and coldness. These dimensions, except gloss-dullness, were paid little attention to in vision science, though they were suggested as perceptual dimensions of tactile texture. This suggests that the perceptual dimensions that are considered to be primarily related to haptics are also important in visual material perception.
Big Money: The Effect of Money Size on Value Perceptions and Saving Motivation
Authors: Peetz Johanna , Soliman Monica
Published: January 2016

Motivated perception has been shown to affect people’s estimates of money (e.g., perceiving coins as larger than real size). In the present research, we examine whether simply varying the size of a picture of money can affect its perceived value and subsequent decisions. Participants presented with a picture of money enlarged by 15% perceived the depicted money as more valuable compared with those seeing a real-size picture (Study 1). When told to imagine their own cash and banked money in the depicted form, participants presented with a picture enlarged by 15% felt more subjectively wealthy and reported fewer intentions to conserve their money compared with those seeing a real-size picture of the same money (Study 2). Together, these studies suggest that judgments about money and even attitudes toward personal spending can be influenced by manipulating the size of a picture of money.
A Note on the Horizontal–Vertical Illusion – A Reply to Wade (2014)
Authors: Landwehr Klaus
Published: January 2016

Like many others before him, Nicholas Wade, in a recent publication in this journal, did not provide the correct title of Adolf Fick's dissertation, approved by the University at Marburg, Germany, in 1851, and Wade also wrongly attributed now famous illusion figures, meant to illustrate the so-called horizontal-vertical illusion (the +, the L, and the inverted T), to this author. After having corrected these errors, I briefly relate Fick’s work to modern work in the field and note that it has been widely neglected.
Visual Illusions Based on Processes: New Classification System Needed
Authors: Hamburger Kai
Published: January 2016

Illusions have mainly been classified according to their phenomenological appearance. Here, I plead for a new classification approach based on processing areas or mechanisms. Classifying visual illusions according to processing areas or mechanisms may not only be valuable for a better understanding of the visual system but also for diagnostics of impairments, degenerative effects, and lesions (from retina to striate and extra-striate cortex).
Use of Core Correctional Practice and Inmate Preparedness for Release
Authors: Haas Stephen M. , Spence Douglas H.
Published: January 2016

Core correctional practices (CCP) are an evidence-based approach that can improve the quality of the prison environment and enhance prisoner outcomes. CCP focus on increasing the effectiveness of treatment interventions as well as the therapeutic potential of relationships between prisoners and correctional staff. This study utilizes a new survey-based measurement tool to assess inmate perceptions of the quality of service delivery and level of adherence to CCP. It then examines the relationship between perceptions of CCP and prisoner’s preparedness for releasing using both bivariate and multivariate analyses. The results show that the perceptions of CCP are positively correlated with readiness for release and are the most powerful predictor of readiness for release in the multivariate models. Implications for the future operationalization of CCP and its role in prisoner reentry are discussed.
Dynamics of a haemodynamic headache: A case report and literature review of headache secondary to flow inversion of the internal jugular vein
Authors: Pereira Liliana , Campos Costa Elisa , Nunes Teresa , Saraiva Paulo , Ferreira Joel , Cruz Pedro , Rodrigues Miguel
Published: January 2016

Background

Haemodialysis arteriovenous fistulas have common local and regional complications, but are rarely associated with neurological symptoms.

Case report

A 43-year-old woman presented with short acute episodes of unilateral, non-throbbing, severe headache, vertigo and left lateropulsion. She had undergone renal transplantation and had a still-functioning left brachial arteriovenous fistula. No abnormality was detected on neurological examination or on brain parenchymal imaging. Colour Doppler ultrasonography showed a subclavian steal syndrome of the left vertebral artery and reversed flow in the left internal jugular vein. Ligation of the arteriovenous fistula had to be delayed as a result of renal graft dysfunction. Six months later she developed a headache attributed to intracranial hypertension. All symptoms subsided after ligation of the arteriovenous fistula.

Literature review

We identified 16 case reports of central neurological complications attributed to haemodialysis brachial fistulas. Headache descriptions were scarce and were not fully detailed.

Conclusions

The case of our patient suggests that unilateral, episodic, non-throbbing, non-postural headache with transient neurological symptoms can be caused by combined arterial and venous flow abnormalities secondary to a high-flow arteriovenous brachial fistula. In this setting, this pattern of headache may precede overt signs of intracranial hypertension and may be used as a warning sign of cerebral venous congestion.
Numerical simulation and experimental verification of heating performance of an integrally water-heated tool
Authors: Abdalrahman Rzgar , Grove Stephen , Kyte Adam , Rizvi Md Jahir
Published: January 2016

Design and manufacturing of composite tooling are crucial in producing cost effective composite components with high quality. Aimed at identifying the optimal design of integrally heated tools in terms of their thermal performance, a number of design variables were investigated numerically in a previous study. Statistical analysis of the simulation results revealed that a parallel layout of heating channels can significantly improve the heating performance, and channel separation should be determined according to the production requirement. In the present work, an integrally water-heated tool is manufactured according to the optimal design after some geometry amendments. Thermal properties of the constituent materials of the produced tool are also measured. A numerical model of the tool geometry is simulated with actual material properties and boundary conditions to calculate the response variables of temperature uniformity and heating rate. The numerical results are verified by experimental testing, using a thermal camera and thermocouples. Good agreement between the simulation and the experimental results confirmed the suitability of numerical simulation in predicting the thermal performance of integrally heated tooling and the validity of the boundary conditions.
Anterior Insula Regulates Multiscale Temporal Organization of Sleep and Wake Activity
Authors: Chen Michael C. , Chiang Wei-Yin , Yugay Tatiana , Patxot Melissa , Özçivit İpek Betül , Hu Kun , Lu Jun
Published: January 2016

The role of specific cortical regions in sleep-regulating circuits is unclear. The anterior insula (AI) has strong reciprocal connectivity with wake and sleep-promoting hypothalamic and brainstem regions, and we hypothesized that the AI regulates patterns of sleep and wakefulness. To test this hypothesis, we lesioned the AI in rats ( n = 8) and compared sleep, wake, and activity regulation in these animals with nonlesioned controls ( n = 8) with 24-h sleep recordings and chronic infrared activity monitoring. Compared to controls, animals with AI lesions had decreased wakefulness and increased rapid eye movement (REM) sleep and non-REM (NREM) sleep. AI-lesioned animals had shorter wake bouts, especially during the active dark phase. AI-lesioned animals also had more transitions from NREM to REM sleep, especially during the inactive light phase. Chronic infrared monitoring revealed that AI-lesioned animals also had a disturbed temporal organization of locomotor activity at multiple time scales with more random activity fluctuations from 4 to 12 h despite intact circadian rhythms. These results suggest that the AI regulates sleep and activity and contributes to the regulation of sleep and motor behavior rhythmicity across multiple time scales. Dysfunction of the AI may underlie changes in sleep-wake patterns in neurological diseases.
Labour market regulation and the ‘competition state’: an analysis of the implementation of the Agency Working Regulations in the UK
Authors: Forde Chris , Slater Gary
Published: January 2016

This article examines the changing role of the state, through an analysis of the development and implementation of the EU Temporary Agency Work Directive in the UK. The article outlines and utilizes the concept of the ‘competition state’ to help frame and comprehend the UK Government’s approach to negotiating and shaping the Directive. Using archival, secondary and primary research, the article shows how the state continues to exercise important choices nationally and internationally which, in turn, have profound implications for the operation of labour markets. The article shows how, despite a veneer of fairness, the state has developed a regulatory instrument which provides uneven protection for workers, favours the actions of employers, promotes further flexibility in the use of temporary labour contracts and, by taking advantage of compromises at the European level, creates further market-making opportunities for well-established large agencies in the sector.
The hidden face of job insecurity
Authors: Gallie Duncan , Felstead Alan , Green Francis , Inanc Hande
Published: January 2016

Drawing on nationally representative data for British employees, the article argues for a more comprehensive concept of job insecurity, including not only job tenure insecurity but also job status insecurity, relating to anxiety about changes to valued features of the job. It shows that job status insecurity is highly prevalent in the workforce and is associated with different individual, employment and labour market characteristics than those that affect insecurity about job loss. It is also related to different organizational contexts. However, the article also shows that the existence of effective mechanisms of employee participation can reduce both types of job insecurity.
HIV self-testing in Peru: questionable availability, high acceptability but potential low linkage to care among men who have sex with men and transgender women
Authors: Bustamante Maria Jose , Konda Kelika A , Joseph Davey Dvora , León Segundo R , Calvo Gino M , Salvatierra Javier , Brown Brandon , Caceres Carlos F , Klausner Jeffrey D
Published: January 2016

HIV status awareness is key to prevention, linkage-to-care and treatment. Our study evaluated the accessibility and potential willingness of HIV self-testing among men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender women in Peru. We surveyed four pharmacy chains in Peru to ascertain the commercial availability of the oral HIV self-test. The pharmacies surveyed confirmed that HIV self-test kits were available; however, those available were not intended for individual use, but for clinician use. We interviewed 147 MSM and 45 transgender women; nearly all (82%) reported willingness to perform the oral HIV self-test. However, only 55% of participants would definitely seek a confirmatory test in a clinic after an HIV-positive test result. Further, price may be a barrier, as HIV self-test kits were available for 18 USD, and MSM and transgender women were only willing to pay an average of 5 USD. HIV self-testing may facilitate increased access to HIV testing among some MSM/transgender women in Peru. However, price may prevent use, and poor uptake of confirmatory testing may limit linkage to HIV treatment and care.
Prevalence of Mycoplasma genitalium in men with urethritis and in high risk asymptomatic males in Tel Aviv: a prospective study
Authors: Gottesman Tamar , Yossepowitch Orit , Samra Zmira , Rosenberg Shoshana , Dan Michael
Published: January 2016

We sought to investigate the prevalence of Mycoplasma genitalium, Chlamydia trachomatis, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, and Trichomonas vaginalis in men presenting to a sexually transmitted infection (STI) clinic, with special attention to M. genitalium, its occurrence in Israeli patients, coinfections, and risk factors. In a cross-sectional study, 259 men were successively enrolled in the Tel Aviv Levinsky Clinic for STIs between November 2008 and November 2010. There were 118 men with urethritis and 141 high-risk men without symptoms. M. genitalium, C. trachomatis, N. gonorrhoeae, and T. vaginalis were detected using nucleic acid amplification tests. Demographic characteristics and risk factors were documented. The overall prevalence of infection with M. genitalium, C. trachomatis, N. gonorrhoeae, and T. vaginalis, were 6.6%, 12.7%, 23.1%, and 0%, respectively. Prevalences in men with urethritis were 11.9%, 22%, and 49%, for M. genitalium, C. trachomatis, and N. gonorrhoeae, respectively. Prevalences in men without symptoms were 2.1%, 5.0%, and 1.4%, for M. genitalium, C. trachomatis, and N. gonorrhoeae, respectively. Co-infections were found only in symptomatic individuals, in whom 5.9% were infected concomitantly with C. trachomatis and N. gonorrhoeae, and 2.5% had dual infection with M. genitalium and N. gonorrhoeae. N. gonorrhoeae, C. trachomatis, and M. genitalium were significantly more prevalent in patients with urethritis. M. genitalium was significantly more prevalent in the heterosexual population than in homosexual males. To conclude, we have found that M. genitalium infection is associated with urethritis in Israeli men, and more so in the heterosexual population. Testing men for M. genitalium as a cause of non-gonococcal urethritis is warranted, particularly because of its poor response to doxycycline and possible failure of azithromycin.
Immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome versus non-immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome lymphoma in HIV patients on antiretroviral therapy
Authors: Choe Pyoeng Gyun , Park Jinyong , Park Wan Beom , Kim Tae Min , Song Kyoung-Ho , Bang Ji Hwan , Kim Eu Suk , Park Sang Won , Kim Hong Bin , Kim Nam Joong , Oh Myoung-don , Choe Kang Won
Published: January 2016

Little is known about differences between immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (IRIS) and non-IRIS lymphoma in HIV patients on antiretroviral therapy (ART). The aim of this study was to describe the characteristics of IRIS and non-IRIS lymphoma in Korean HIV-positive patients on ART compared with lymphoma in those off ART. Of 1490 patients, 41 (3%) had lymphoma. Of these, 27 cases (66%) were classified as lymphoma off ART, eight as IRIS lymphoma, and six as non-IRIS lymphoma on ART. Hodgkin lymphoma was significantly more common among patients with non-IRIS lymphoma on ART than among those with lymphoma off ART ( P = 0.005), whereas there was no Hodgkin lymphoma among IRIS lymphoma. Stage IV lymphoma was significantly rarer in non-IRIS lymphoma on ART than in lymphoma off ART ( P = 0.007). Non-IRIS lymphoma on ART tends to have a better survival rate than lymphoma off ART (Kaplan–Meier survival analysis, P = 0.167), while IRIS lymphoma exhibited a survival rate similar to lymphoma off ART ( P = 0.618). In Korean HIV-positive patients, there were significantly more cases of Hodgkin lymphoma of a less advanced stage in non-IRIS lymphoma on ART than in lymphoma off ART, in contrast to IRIS lymphoma.
Prevalence of hepatitis C virus infection among HIV+ men who have sex with men: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Jordan Ashly E , Perlman David C , Neurer Joshua , Smith Daniel J , Des Jarlais Don C , Hagan Holly
Published: January 2016

Since 2000, an increase in hepatitis C virus infection among HIV-infected (HIV+) men who have sex with men has been observed. Evidence points to blood exposure during sex as the medium of hepatitis C virus transmission. Hepatitis C virus prevalence among HIV + MSM overall and in relation to injection drug use is poorly characterized. In this study, a systematic review and meta-analysis examining global hepatitis C virus antibody prevalence and estimating active hepatitis C virus prevalence among HIV + MSM were conducted; 42 reports provided anti-hepatitis C virus prevalence data among HIV + MSM. Pooled prevalence produced an overall anti-hepatitis C virus prevalence among HIV + MSM of 8.1%; active HCV prevalence estimate was 5.3%–7.3%. Anti-hepatitis C virus prevalence among injection drug use and non-injection drug use HIV + MSM was 40.0% and 6.7%, respectively. Among HIV + MSM, hepatitis C virus prevalence increased significantly over time among the overall and non-injection drug use groups, and decreased significantly among injection drug use HIV + MSM. We identified a moderate prevalence of hepatitis C virus among all HIV + MSM and among non-injection drug use HIV + MSM; for both, prevalence was observed to be increasing slightly. Pooled prevalence of hepatitis C virus among HIV + MSM was higher than that observed in the 1945–1965 US birth cohort. The modest but rising hepatitis C virus prevalence among HIV + MSM suggests an opportunity to control HCV among HIV + MSM; this combined with data demonstrating a rising hepatitis C virus incidence highlights the temporal urgency to do so.
Pleasure Now, Pain Later
Authors: Oettingen Gabriele , Mayer Doris , Portnow Sam
Published: January 2016

Though common sense suggests that positive thinking shelters people from depression, the four studies reported here showed that this intuition needs to be qualified: Positive thinking in the form of fantasies about the future did indeed relate to decreased symptoms of depression when measured concurrently; however, positive fantasies predicted more depressive symptoms when measured longitudinally. The pattern of results was observed for different indicators of fantasies and depression, in adults and in schoolchildren, and for periods of up to 7 months (Studies 1–4). In college students, low academic success partially mediated the predictive relation between positive fantasies and symptoms of depression (Study 4). Results add to existing research on the problematic effects of positive fantasies on performance by suggesting that indulging in positive fantasies predicts problems in mental health.
Discouraged by Peer Excellence
Authors: Rogers Todd , Feller Avi
Published: January 2016

People are exposed to exemplary peer performances often (and sometimes by design in interventions). In two studies, we showed that exposure to exemplary peer performances can undermine motivation and success by causing people to perceive that they cannot attain their peers’ high levels of performance. It also causes de-identification with the relevant domain. We examined such discouragement by peer excellence by exploiting the incidental exposure to peers’ abilities that occurs when students are asked to assess each other’s work. Study 1 was a natural experiment in a massive open online course that employed peer assessment ( N = 5,740). Exposure to exemplary peer performances caused a large proportion of students to quit the course. Study 2 explored underlying psychological mechanisms in an online replication ( N = 361). Discouragement by peer excellence has theoretical implications for work on social judgment, social comparison, and reference bias and has practical implications for interventions that induce social comparisons.
Alleviation of doxorubicin–induced hepatorenal toxicities with sesamin via the suppression of oxidative stress
Authors: Guo H , Liu Y , Wang L , Zhang G , Su S , Zhang R , Zhang J , Li A , Shang C , Bi B , Li Z
Published: January 2016

Hepatorenal toxicities are an important side effect of anthracycline antibiotics. The objective of this study was to determine whether sesamin (Ses) protects against acute doxorubicin (DOX)-induced hepatorenal toxicities. Rats received daily treatment with either 0.5% carboxymethylcellulose (10 mL/kg) or Ses (10, 20 and 40 mg/kg) orally for 10 days, followed by an intravenous injection at day 8 of either saline (10 mL/kg) or DOX (20 mg/kg). Hepatorenal toxicity was assessed by measuring the levels of serum creatinine (Cre), blood urea nitrogen (BUN), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP). The protein expression of 4-hydroxynonenal (4-HNE) in hepatorenal tissues was evaluated using immunohistochemistry. The malondialdehyde (MDA) content and antioxidant activity in the kidney and liver tissues were also measured. The results suggest that pretreatment with Ses ameliorated DOX-induced liver and kidney injury by lowering the serum ALT, AST, ALP, Cre and BUN levels ( p < 0.05 or p < 0.01), and the histological damage to the liver and kidney tissues induced by DOX compared to control were also significantly attenuated by Ses. Furthermore, Ses significantly decreased the DOX-induced increase of MDA and 4-HNE and increased the activity of CAT, SOD and GPX compared to the DOX-treated rats ( p < 0.05 or p < 0.01), whereas the change of DOX + Ses (10 mg/kg) group is not significant compared to the DOX-treated group ( p > 0.05). These findings indicate that Ses elicits a typical protective effect against DOX-induced acute hepatorenal toxicity via the suppression of oxidative stress.
Protective effect of diallylsulphide against mercuric chloride-induced hepatic injury in rats
Authors: Ansar S , Iqbal M
Published: January 2016

The present study was undertaken to evaluate the effect of diallylsulphide (DAS) against mercuric chloride (HgCl2)-induced oxidative stress in rat livers. Rats were randomly divided into four groups of six rats each and exposed to HgCl2 (50 mg/kg/body weight (b.w.)) intraperitoneally and/or DAS (200 mg/kg/b.w.) by gavage. HgCl2 administration enhanced alanine aminotransferase (AST) and aspartate aminotransferase (ALT) levels ( p < 0.05) with reduction in the levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px). However, treatment with DAS markedly attenuated HgCl2-induced biochemical alterations in liver and serum transaminases (AST and ALT; p < 0.05). Further, biochemical results were confirmed by histopathological changes as compared to HgCl2-intoxicated rats. Histopathology of liver also showed that administration of DAS significantly reduced the damage generated by HgCl2. The present study suggests that DAS shows antioxidant activity and plays a protective role against mercury-induced oxidative damage in the rat livers.
Human rights conflicts experienced by nurses migrating between developed countries
Authors: Palese Alvisa , Dobrowolska Beata , Squin Anna , Lupieri Giulia , Bulfone Giampiera , Vecchiato Sara
Published: January 2016

Background:

Some developed countries have recently changed their role in the context of international recruitment, becoming donors due to socio-economical and political factors such as recessions. This is also the case in Italy, where there has been a flow of immigrant nurses out of the country that has been documented over the past several years. In a short time, it has become a donor country to other developed European countries, such as the United Kingdom.

Aims:

To advance knowledge in the context of human rights conflicts and ethical implications of the decision-making process of nurses who migrate between developed countries, such as from Italy to the United Kingdom, during times of recession.

Research design:

A case study based on the descriptive phenomenological approach was undertaken in 2014.

Participants and research context:

A total of 26 Italian newly graduated nurses finding a job in the United Kingdom were interviewed via Skype and telephone.

Ethical considerations:

The Internal Review Board of the University approved the project.

Findings:

In accordance with the descriptive phenomenological approach undertaken, three main themes emerged: (1) escaping from the feeling of being refused/rejected in order to be desired, (2) perceiving themselves respected, as a person and as a nurse, in a growth project and (3) returning if the country changes its strategy regarding nurses.

Discussion:

Ethical implications in the context of human rights, such as autonomy of the decision, social justice and reciprocal obligation, non-maleficence and double effect, have been discussed.

Conclusion:

The call for investing in nurses and nurses’ care in developed countries facing recession is urgent. Investing in nurses means respecting individuals and citizens who are at risk of developing health problems during the recession.
Uniforms in dementia care: A barrier or a necessity?
Authors: Mitchell Gary
Published: January 2016

This is a case study of an ethical dilemma concerning the appropriateness of encouraging care-staff, working within a dementia care home, to either wear a clinical uniform or not to wear a clinical uniform in practice. It is proposed that people living with dementia may sustain higher levels of wellbeing if care-staff wear clothes that are more akin to their care home environment, for example, wearing similar clothes to the residents or even wearing pyjamas and nightwear during a night shift. The counter argument is that the practice may lead to greater levels of distress due to disorientation, increased potential for infection and inability to identify nurses when needed.
Deprivileging the public sector workforce: Austerity, fragmentation and service withdrawal in Britain
Authors: Bach Stephen
Published: January 2016

The impact of the financial crisis has reignited debate about the scope and scale of public sector restructuring and its consequences for the workforce in Britain. The economic crisis precipitated austerity measures concentrated on expenditure reductions with the intention of reducing the public deficit. Because the public sector pay bill comprises over half of current public spending, achieving deficit reduction has major consequences for the total pay bill and the workforce. This article assesses the restructuring of the public sector and public sector employment relations in Britain and identifies underlying continuities in public sector restructuring over recent decades. Drawing on and repositioning New Labour’s legacy, the Coalition government used the economic crisis to establish a pro-austerity frame that has legitimated deep cuts in public sector employment and involved measures to refashion public sector employment relations. The article considers the consequences of this agenda and responses by trade unions and indicates some of the limits and uncertain prospects for public sector restructuring under conditions of austerity.
Parent Attributions About Child Symptoms Related to Cancer Therapy
Authors: Di Battista Ashley , Dupuis Lee L. , Cassidy Marilyn , Portwine Carol , Johnston Donna L. , Pradier Silva Mariana , Sung Lillian , Barrera Maru
Published: January 2016

Purpose: Symptom assessment is an emergent area of research in pediatric cancer. Our team previously reported on the development of a questionnaire to be completed by parents to determine symptom prevalence and bother. This exploratory study examined parental nonprobed, free-text comments about their child’s treatment-related symptoms reported on the questionnaire. Method: Participants were parents of children aged 4 to 18 years who had been diagnosed with cancer at least 2 months prior to enrolment and had received intravenous chemotherapy within the past month at 1 of 5 pediatric cancer centers. The questionnaire consisted of 69 or 71 items (based on child’s age) addressing physical and psychological sequelae. Each symptom query was accompanied by a blank space in which parents could comment on their response. Comments were analyzed guided by content analysis methodology. Results: Five major themes emerged: parental attributions for the symptoms experienced in their child; coping patterns and communication styles within the family; evidence of anticipatory, procedural, and other anxieties; interruption of daily life; and changes in the child’s physical appearance. Conclusions: These exploratory findings provide context to parental perception of their child’s treatment-related symptoms and may contribute to a better understanding of parental perception of child and the family coping and communicating style. These findings may assist in the development of psychoeducational interventions aimed at promoting open communication styles within the family and reducing child and parent burden during treatment procedures.