bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Organizational Networks in Times of Crisis: Lessons from Katrina
Authors: Curtis Christopher A.
Published: November 2016

The purpose of this study was to examine how well organizations that could have potentially aided in the response to Hurricane Katrina were integrated into the relief effort following the disaster using a social network analysis framework. It was hypothesized that a number of organizations were kept isolated from or peripheral to mitigation efforts. Quantitative content analysis of media reports and government documents was performed to test this hypothesis, which was confirmed. The results of this study suggest that if relief efforts are to be more successful in the future, organizations with valuable resources must be included in the interorganizational networks of responders before and immediately after disasters take place.
Supplemental Insurance and Racial Health Disparities under Medicare Part B
Authors: Brunt Christopher S.
Published: November 2016

Objective

To assess the impact of preferences, socioeconomic status (SES), and supplemental insurance (SI) on racial/ethnic disparities in the probability and use of services at physicians' offices, hospitals, and emergency departments among Medicare beneficiaries enrolled in Part B.

Research Design and Subjects

This study includes black and white beneficiaries from the 2009–2011 panel of the Medicare Current Beneficiary Survey who were enrolled in Medicare Part B. Logit and negative binomial multivariate regression analysis were used in conjunction with rank‐and‐replace methods to determine factors influencing utilization and black–white utilization disparities.

Principal Findings

Among Part B beneficiaries, significant disparities exist for each studied service. Examining contributing factors, 12–19 percent of the black–white health‐adjusted difference in the probability of use is explained by differences in SES, whereas differences in the distribution of SI accounts for 20 percent or more. For volume, SES is found to account for 2–11 percent of differences with SI making up another 9–10 percent.

Conclusions

A substantial portion of the difference in black–white beneficiary use of outpatient services is due to SI. Policies aimed at increasing coverage are likely to increase the probability of visits with modest increases in volume.
Emulsion Stabilized with Starch Octenyl Succinate Prolongs Nisin Activity Against Listeria Monocytogenes in a Cantaloupe Juice Model
Authors: Sarkar Preetam , Bhunia Arun K. , Yao Yuan
Published: November 2016

Food safety related to fresh and fresh‐cut produce, such as cantaloupe, is a great challenge in the food industry. Various processing technologies, including the use of antimicrobial materials, have been applied to reduce pathogens. Nisin, an antimicrobial peptide, shows strong inhibitory activity against Listeria monocytogenes (LM); however, it suffers from quick depletion in foods. In this study, the protective effect of starch octenyl succinate (starch‐OS) stabilized emulsion on nisin was evaluated in a cantaloupe juice model. Results showed that the proteolytic enzyme in cantaloupe juice caused nisin depletion, and the adsorption of nisin in emulsion led to considerable protection of antimicrobial activity. After 1, 3, and 6 d of incorporation with cantaloupe juice, the size of LM inhibitory ring were 7.64, 7.60, and 2.97 mm, respectively for emulsion formulations, whereas it reduced from 3.60 mm to a negligible level for nisin‐alone. This study showed the potential of using carbohydrate colloidal systems to prolong the efficacy of antimicrobial materials.
Retracted: The role of ADIPOQ methylation in curcumin‐administrated experimental nonalcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Chen Wen Ji , Cai Bing , Chen Hui Ting , Cao Chuang Yu , Du Yan Lei , Li Yu Yuan , Nie Yu Qiang , Zhou Yong Jian
Published: November 2016

Objective

To investigate the role of adiponectin precursor (ADIPOQ) DNA methylation in the pathogenesis of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and the effect of curcumin on the development of NAFLD using rat models.

Methods

Male Sprague–Dawley rats were divided into the control, NAFLD and curcumin‐treated groups. The genetic and epigenetic features of each rat were measured and recorded. Real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR), Western blot and bisulfite sequencing PCR (BSP) were used to quantify the ADIPOQ mRNA and protein expressions, and DNA methylation status, respectively.

Results

Serum levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol (TC) and fasting blood glucose in the NAFLD group were significantly increased compared with the control group. The genetic and epigenetic features were reversed after curcumin treatment. The ADIPOQ mRNA and protein expressions in the livers of the NAFLD rats was lower compared with the control and the curcumin‐treated groups. ADIPOQ methylation rate in the NAFLD group was significantly higher than in the control group, which was declined slightly following curcumin treatment. A negative correlation was found between the degrees of DNA methylation and ADIPOQ mRNA expression. ALT, TC, TG and homeostatic model assessment insulin resistance index had a positive correlation with ADIPOQ DNA methylation, showing that curcumin might affect the gene expression involved in lipid and glucose metabolism by influencing ADIPOQ DNA methylation modifications, which contributed to alleviation of NAFLD.

Conclusion

Altering the DNA methylation of ADIPOQ is one of the mechanisms by which curcumin executes its hepatoprotective function in NAFLD.
Peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor α ligands and modulators from dietary compounds: Types, screening methods and functions
Authors: Yang Haixia , Xiao Lei , Wang Nanping
Published: November 2016

Peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor α (PPARα) plays a key role in lipid metabolism and glucose homeostasis and a crucial role in the prevention and treatment of metabolic diseases. Natural dietary compounds, including nutrients and phytochemicals, are PPARα ligands or modulators. High‐throughput screening assays have been developed to screen for PPARα ligands and modulators in our diet. In the present review, we discuss recent advances in our knowledge of PPARα, including its structure, function, and ligand and modulator screening assays, and summarize the different types of dietary PPARα ligands and modulators.
Evidence for clinical progression of unipolar and bipolar disorders
Authors: Kessing L. V. , Andersen P. K.
Published: November 2016

Objective

It is a widely held belief that affective disorders are progressive of nature; however, some recent reviews have questioned this belief. The objective of the present systematic literature review was to present evidence for associations between number of affective episodes and (i) the risk of recurrence of episodes, (ii) probability of recovery from episodes, (iii) severity of episodes, (iv) the threshold for developing episodes, and (v) progression of cognitive deficits in unipolar and bipolar disorders.

Method

A systematic review comprising an extensive literature search conducted in Medline, Embase, and PsychInfo up to September 2016 and including cross‐references from identified papers and reviews.

Results

Most of the five areas are superficially investigated and hampered by methodological challenges. Nevertheless, studies with the longest follow‐up periods, using survival analysis methods, taking account of the individual heterogeneity all support a clinical progressive course of illness. Overall, increasing number of affective episodes seems to be associated with (i) increasing risk of recurrence, (ii) increasing duration of episodes, (iii) increasing symptomatic severity of episodes, (iv) decreasing threshold for developing episodes, and (v) increasing risk of developing dementia.

Conclusion

Although the course of illness is heterogeneous, there is evidence for clinical progression of unipolar and bipolar disorders.
Gone with the Wind: Federalism and the Strategic Location of Air Polluters
Authors: Monogan James E. , Konisky David M. , Woods Neal D.
Published: November 2016

In federal systems, both state governments and firms have incentives to strategically locate polluting facilities where the environmental and health consequences will be borne as much as possible by residents of other jurisdictions. We analyze air polluter location in the United States using a spatial point pattern model, which models where events occur in latitude and longitude. Our analyses indicate that major air polluters are significantly more likely to be located near a state's downwind border than a control group of other industrial facilities, results that are robust to a wide variety of model specifications and measurement strategies. This effect is particularly pronounced for facilities with toxic air emissions. The observed pattern of polluter location varies systematically across states and time in ways that suggest it is responsive to public policy at both the national and state levels.
A House Divided? Roll Calls, Polarization, and Policy Differences in the U.S. House, 1877–2011
Authors: Bateman David A. , Clinton Joshua D. , Lapinski John S.
Published: November 2016

The study of political conflict in legislatures is fundamental to understanding the nature of governance, but also difficult because of changes in membership and the issues addressed over time. Focusing on the enduring issue of civil rights in the United States since Reconstruction, we show that using current methods and measures to characterize elite ideological disagreements makes it hard to interpret or reconcile the conflicts with historical understandings because of their failure to adequately account for the policies being voted upon and the consequences of the iterative lawmaking process. Incorporating information about the policies being voted upon provides a starkly different portrait of elite conflict—not only are contemporary parties relatively less divided than is commonly thought, but the conflict occurs in a smaller, and more liberal, portion of the policy space. These findings have important implications for a broad range of work that uses elite actions to compare political conflict/polarization across time.
Citrate‐Buffered Dialysis Solution (Citrasate) Allows Avoidance of Anticoagulation During Intermittent Hemodiafiltration—At the Cost of Decreased Performance and Systemic Biocompatibility
Authors: Richtrova Pavlina , Mares Jan , Kielberger Lukas , Trefil Ladislav , Eiselt Jaromir , Reischig Tomas
Published: November 2016

Reportedly, citrate‐based dialysis solution enables heparin dose tapering or even complete exclusion, particularly in postdilution hemodiafiltration (HDF). The aim of the study was to verify this strategy in predilution setting and to assess its short‐term safety, efficacy, and biocompatibility. Ten regular hemodialysis patients were assigned to predilution HDF on acetate‐ and citrate‐based dialysis solutions (0.8 mmol/l trisodium citrate) at random order. Acetate HDF was performed using routine dose of heparin while citrate HDF was heparin free. Plasma calcium, thrombin‐antithrombin complexes (TAT), and citrate levels were measured at 0, 30, 60, 120, and 240 min. Following each session, a semiquantitative dialyzer clotting score (DCT 1‐5) was assessed and HDF adequacy was determined as spKt/V. Statistical relevance was tested by ANOVA with pP < 0.05 held significant, data are given as means ± standard deviations. All sessions were accomplished successfully, premature termination or circuit re‐setting was not necessary. However, DCT was significantly higher in citrate‐HDF compared to acetate‐HDF regimen (3.4 ± 0.65 and 1.8 ± 0.79, respectively, P = 0.002) as well as TAT generation rate (increase per session by factor 11.0 ± 8.43 and 2.1 ± 1.26, respectively, P = 0.004 between regimens). Ionized calcium declined only by the end of citrate‐HDF (from 1.09 ± 0.086 to 0.99 ± 0.030 mmol/L, P = 0.002) yet without accompanying clinical symptoms. Systemic citrate levels increased along the citrate‐HDF session but stayed an order of magnitude below concentrations needed to establish citrate anticoagulation (peak at 0.276 ± 0.112 mmol/L). Dialysis adequacy estimated by spKt/V was found lower in citrate‐HDF vs. acetate‐HDF (1.48 ± 0.163 and 1.58 ± 0.165, respectively, P = 0.006). Although predilution HDF using citrate‐based dialysate is feasible without heparin, both dialysis adequacy and biocompatibility is significantly compromised. Therefore, this approach can be adopted for a single procedure but is not acceptable on a regular basis.
Design, synthesis, and biological evaluation of chrysin derivatives as potential FabH inhibitors
Authors: Li Hong‐Xia , Wang Zhong‐Chang , Qian Yu‐Mei , Yan Xiao‐Qiang , Lu Ya‐Dong , Zhu Hai‐Liang
Published: November 2016

New series of chrysin derivatives (4a–4t) were designed and synthesized by introducing different substituted piperazines at C‐7 position. Their inhibitory effects on FabH were evaluated using two Gram‐negative bacterial strains, Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and two Gram‐positive bacterial strains, Bacillus subtilis and Staphylococcus aureus. To our delight, most of these compounds exhibited a dramatic increase in inhibitory potency, compared with the control positive drugs. Among them, compound 4s exhibited the most potent inhibitory activity with IC50 values of 5.78 ± 0.24 μm inhibiting E. coli FabH and potent antibacterial activity against S. aureus and E. coli with MIC of 1.25 ± 0.01, 1.15 ± 0.12 μg/mL, respectively, comparing to the control positive drugs penicillin G (7.56 ± 0.30 μm). Docking simulation was performed to position compound 4s into the FabH active site, and the result showed that compound 4s could bind well with the FabH as potent FabH inhibitor.
Nonverbal Executive Function is Mediated by Language: A Study of Deaf and Hearing Children
Authors: Botting Nicola , Jones Anna , Marshall Chloe , Denmark Tanya , Atkinson Joanna , Morgan Gary
Published: November 2016

Studies have suggested that language and executive function (EF) are strongly associated. Indeed, the two are difficult to separate, and it is particularly difficult to determine whether one skill is more dependent on the other. Deafness provides a unique opportunity to disentangle these skills because in this case, language difficulties have a sensory not cognitive basis. In this study, deaf (n = 108) and hearing (n = 125) children (age 8 years) were assessed on language and a wide range of nonverbal EF tasks. Deaf children performed significantly less well on EF tasks, even controlling for nonverbal intelligence and speed of processing. Language mediated EF skill, but the reverse pattern was not evident. Findings suggest that language is key to EF performance rather than vice versa.
Therapeutic alliance and obesity management in primary care – a cross‐sectional pilot using the Working Alliance Inventory
Authors: Sturgiss E. A. , Sargent G. M. , Haesler E. , Rieger E. , Douglas K.
Published: November 2016

Summary

Therapeutic alliance is a well‐recognized predictor of patient outcomes within psychological therapy. It has not been applied to obesity interventions, and Bordin's theoretical framework shows particular relevance to the management of obesity in primary health care. This cross‐sectional study of a weight management programme in general practice aimed to determine if therapeutic alliance was associated with patient outcomes. The Working Alliance Inventory short revised version (WAI‐SR) was administered to 23 patients and 11 general practitioners (GPs) at the end of a 6‐month weight management programme. Use of the WAI‐SR indicated that the strength of therapeutic alliance varied between different patient–GP relationships in this pilot intervention. A robust therapeutic alliance was strongly associated with patient engagement in the weight management programme indicated by number of appointments. It was also associated with some general health and quality of life outcomes. These are promising results that require confirmation with larger studies in primary health care. The measurement of therapeutic alliance using the WAI‐SR may predict patient attendance and outcomes in obesity interventions in primary healthcare settings.
Consumption‐Based Conservation Targeting: Linking Biodiversity Loss to Upstream Demand through a Global Wildlife Footprint
Authors: Kitzes Justin , Berlow Eric , Conlisk Erin , Erb Karlheinz , Iha Katsunori , Martinez Neo , Newman Erica A. , Plutzar Christoph , Smith Adam B. , Harte John
Published: November 2016

Although most conservation efforts address the direct, local causes of biodiversity loss, effective long‐term conservation will require complementary efforts to reduce the upstream economic pressures, such as demands for food and forest products, which ultimately drive these downstream losses. Here, we present a wildlife footprint analysis that links global losses of wild birds to consumer purchases across 57 economic sectors in 129 regions. The United States, India, China, and Brazil have the largest regional wildlife footprints, while per‐person footprints are highest in Mongolia, Australia, Botswana, and the United Arab Emirates. A US$100 purchase of bovine meat or rice products occupies approximately 0.1 km2 of wild bird ranges, displacing 1–2 individual birds, for 1 year. Globally significant importer regions, including Japan, the United Kingdom, Germany, Italy, and France, have large footprints that drive wildlife losses elsewhere in the world and represent important targets for consumption‐focused conservation attention.
Usage and effectiveness of systemic treatments in adults with severe atopic eczema: First results of the German Atopic Eczema Registry TREATgermany
Authors: Schmitt Jochen , Abraham Susanne , Trautmann Freya , Stephan Victoria , Fölster‐Holst Regina , Homey Bernhard , Bieber Thomas , Novak Natalija , Sticherling Michael , Augustin Matthias , Kleinheinz Andreas , Elsner Peter , Weidinger Stephan , Werfel Thomas
Published: November 2016

Background

The goal of clinical registries is to document the use and effectiveness of therapeutic interventions under real‐life conditions. They are an indispensable prerequisite of evidence‐based health care.

Methods

Initiated in 2011, the German Atopic Dermatitis Registry TREATgermany is the first registry of patients with severe atopic dermatitis worldwide. Adults with severe atopic dermatitis (current/prior systemic antiinflammatory treatment and/or objective SCORAD ≥ 40) are prospectively followed over the course of 24 months. Employed treatment modalities are documented, and validated measuring tools are used to assess clinical disease severity (EASI, objective SCORAD), quality of life (DLQI), symptoms (POEM), global disease severity, as well as patient satisfaction. Herein, we describe the characteristics, therapeutic selection, and effectiveness of systemic antiinflammatory treatments of patients enrolled in the registry until October 2014.

Results

Overall, 78 individuals (mean age 39 years, 61 % men) were enrolled at five recruitment centers. Patients frequently made use of inpatient and outpatient services. Not only was cyclosporine the most frequently administered systemic treatment, but also the most effective (EASI 50 response rate 51 %; EASI 75 response rate 34 % at 12 weeks). Azathioprine, methotrexate, oral prednisolone, mycophenolate, alitretinoin, and leflunomide were also used in some patients.

Conclusions

The present analysis of the German Atopic Dermatitis Registry provides important data with respect to current medical care of adults with severe atopic dermatitis in Germany. It shows the high disease burden, the benefits of current treatment options, and the need for additional effective and safe long‐term treatment options.
Nail involvement can predict enthesopathy in patients with psoriasis
Authors: Castellanos‐González Maria , Joven Beatriz Esther , Sánchez Julio , Andrés‐Esteban Eva María , Vanaclocha‐Sebastián Francisco , Romero Pablo Ortiz , Díaz Raquel Rivera
Published: November 2016

Background

: Although subclinical enthesopathy is a well‐established diagnostic criterion for psoriatic arthritis (PsA), it is frequently overlooked, as many patients are asymptomatic. The possibility of finding a clinical clue predicting enthesopathy would help clinicians establish an early diagnosis of PsA.

Material and methods

: A prospective single‐center study of a total of 90 patients with psoriasis was conducted to assess the presence of entheseal abnormalities as detected by ultrasound, and to determine any correlation with nail involvement.

Results

: Entheseal abnormalities were found in 23 patients (25.5 %), 19 (82.6 %) of whom showed nail involvement, whereas four (17.4 %) individuals did not. Enthesopathy was present in 31.1 % (19/61) of patients with onychopathy compared to 13.8 % (4/29) of those without nail involvement (p  =  0.07). There was a significant correlation between target NAPSI score and evidence of enthesopathy. In addition, the number of nails affected also showed a significant correlation with the presence of enthesopathy (p  = 0.035).

Conclusions

: Clinical evidence of onychopathy may be the clue to an early diagnosis of enthesopathy in psoriasis patients.
Time and environment explain the current richness distribution of non‐marine turtles worldwide
Authors: Rodrigues João Fabrício Mota , Olalla‐Tárraga Miguel Ángel , Iverson John B. , Akre Thomas S. B. , Diniz‐Filho José Alexandre Felizola
Published: November 2016

Ecological, historical, and evolutionary hypotheses are important to explain geographical diversity gradients in many clades, but few studies have combined them into a single analysis allowing a comparison of their relative importance. This study aimed to evaluate the relative importance of ecological, historical, and evolutionary hypotheses in explaining the current global distribution of non‐marine turtles, a group whose distribution patterns are still poorly explored. We used data from distribution range maps of 336 species of non‐marine turtles, environmental layers, and phylogeny to obtain richness estimates of these animals in 2° × 2° cells and predictors related to ecological, evolutionary and historical hypotheses driving richness patterns. Then we used a path analysis to evaluate direct and indirect effects of the predictors on turtle richness. Ancestral area reconstruction was also performed in order to evaluate the influence of time‐for‐speciation in the current diversity of the group. We found that environmental variables had the highest direct effects on non‐marine turtle richness, whereas diversification rates and area available in the last 55 million yr minimally influenced turtle distributions. We found evidence for the time‐for‐speciation effect, since regions colonized early were generally richer than recently colonized regions. In addition, regions with a high number of colonization events had a higher number of turtle species. Our results suggested that ecological processes may influence non‐marine turtle richness independent of diversification rates, but they are probably related to dispersal abilities. However, colonization time was also an important component that must be taken into account. Finally, our study provided additional support for the importance of ecological (climate and productivity) and historical (time‐for‐speciation and dispersal) processes in shaping current biodiversity patterns.
Geographic shifts in the effects of habitat size on trophic structure and decomposition
Authors: LeCraw Robin M. , Romero Gustavo Q. , Srivastava Diane S.
Published: November 2016

Habitat size is known to affect community structure and ecosystem function, but few studies have examined the underlying mechanisms over sufficient size gradients or in enough geographic contexts to determine their generality. Our goal in this study was to determine if the relationship between habitat size and leaf decomposition varied across geographic sites, and which factors may be driving the differences. We conducted replicated observations in a coastal forest in Brazil, and in rainforests in Costa Rica and Puerto Rico. We used leaf litter decomposition and macroinvertebrate composition in bromeliad phytotelmata of varying sizes to determine the relationships between habitat size, trophic structure and decomposition over a wide geographical range. We experimentally disentangled the effects of site and litter quality by quantifying invertebrate control of decomposition of a native and a transplanted litter type within one site. We found that the relationship between bromeliad size and decomposition rates differed among study sites. In rainforests in Costa Rica and Puerto Rico, decomposition was strongly linked to macroinvertebrate trophic structure, which varies with bromeliad size, driving strong bromeliad size‐decomposition relationships. However, in Brazil there was no relationship between bromeliad size and decomposition. Our manipulative experiment suggests that within coastal forest in Brazil, the poor quality of native litter resulted in little invertebrate control of decomposition. Furthermore, the key detritivore in this site builds a predator‐resistant case, which likely prevented effects of bromeliad size on trophic structure from being transmitted to decomposition even when litter quality was increased. We conclude that differences in both leaf litter quality and macroinvertebrate traits among sites determine the link between decomposition and macroinvertebrates, and consequently the decomposition‐bromeliad size relationship. These results show that the response of decomposition to habitat size is context‐dependent, and depends on which component of the food web is the main driver of the function.
Experimental fire increases soil carbon dioxide efflux in a grassland long‐term multifactor global change experiment
Authors: Strong Aaron L. , Johnson Tera P. , Chiariello Nona R. , Field Christopher B.
Published: November 2016

Numerous studies have demonstrated that soil respiration rates increase under experimental warming, although the long‐term, multiyear dynamics of this feedback are not well constrained. Less is known about the effects of single, punctuated events in combination with other longer‐duration anthropogenic influences on the dynamics of soil carbon (C) loss. In 2012 and 2013, we assessed the effects of decadal‐scale anthropogenic global change – warming, increased nitrogen (N) deposition, elevated carbon dioxide (CO2), and increased precipitation – on soil respiration rates in an annual‐dominated Mediterranean grassland. We also investigated how controlled fire and an artificial wet‐up event, in combination with exposure to the longer‐duration anthropogenic global change factors, influenced the dynamics of C cycling in this system. Decade‐duration surface soil warming (1–2 °C) had no effect on soil respiration rates, while +N addition and elevated CO2 concentrations increased growing‐season soil CO2 efflux rates by increasing annual aboveground net primary production (NPP) and belowground fine root production, respectively. Low‐intensity experimental fire significantly elevated soil CO2 efflux rates in the next growing season. Based on mixed‐effects modeling and structural equation modeling, low‐intensity fire increased growing‐season soil respiration rates through a combination of three mechanisms: large increases in soil temperature (3–5 °C), significant increases in fine root production, and elevated aboveground NPP. Our study shows that in ecosystems where soil respiration has acclimated to moderate warming, further increases in soil temperature can stimulate greater soil CO2 efflux. We also demonstrate that punctuated short‐duration events such as fire can influence soil C dynamics with implications for both the parameterization of earth system models (ESMs) and the implementation of climate change mitigation policies that involve land‐sector C accounting.
Angiotensin‐converting enzyme insertion/deletion polymorphism and the longitudinal progression of Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Chou Ping‐Song , Wu Meng‐Ni , Chou Mei‐Chuan , Chien I , Yang Yuan‐Han
Published: November 2016

Aim

The angiotensin‐converting enzyme gene (ACE) insertion (I)/deletion (D) polymorphism is considered a biologically plausible gene for Alzheimer's disease (AD) in cross‐sectional studies. The present study aimed to investigate the longitudinal effect of ACE I/D polymorphism on AD progression.

Methods

This 3‐year observational study investigated the longitudinal effect of ACE I/D polymorphism on AD progression. Clinically diagnosed AD patients with a clinical dementia rating (CDR) of 0.5 or 1 were enrolled in the study. The Mini‐Mental State Examination (MMSE), Cognitive Assessment Screening Instrument (CASI) and the CDR scale were carried out for all patients on the date of the initial interview and 36 ± 6 months after the initial evaluation.

Results

A total of 177 patients with sporadic AD were enrolled in this study. Among all patients, those with the I/I genotype showed a higher risk of CDR deterioration (I/I versus I/D + D/D: adjusted OR 2.103, 95% CI 1.113–3.972; adjusted P = 0.022). Among 74 AD patients without hypertension, those with the I/I genotype showed significantly greater differences in the MMSE, CASI and the CDR‐sum of box scores, and a higher risk of CDR deterioration (I/I versus I/D + D/D: adjusted OR 3.255, 95% CI 1.099–9.639; adjusted P = 0.033) after adjustment for possible confounders during the 3‐year follow up.

Conclusions

Patients with AD who were homozygous for the I allele presented with a more rapid AD deterioration than did those who had other ACE genotypes, particularly those patients without hypertension. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2017; 17: 1544–1550.
Does organizational adaptation really matter? How mission change affects the survival of U.S. federal independent agencies, 1933–2011
Authors: Boin Arjen , Kofman Celesta , Kuilman Jeroen , Kuipers Sanneke , van Witteloostuijn Arjen
Published: November 2016

Public administration scholars tend to take for granted that organizational adaptation is important. This common notion that public organizations must adapt to stay alive has not been put to the test in the field of public administration, however. Intriguingly, organization ecologists find that adaptation does not matter and might even be counterproductive for individual organizations. They argue that the absence of adaptation—which they refer to as structural inertia—actually enhances the likelihood of survival. But organization ecologists focus mostly on nonpublic organizations. This prompts the question whether adaptation in public organizations really matters. In this article, we test these contrasting claims (while controlling for design features) on a population of U.S. federal independent public agencies (n = 142). Our findings suggest a subtle narrative. We conclude that proactive adaptation increases termination hazards. But inertia does not seem to significantly enhance survival chances.
Cluster Headache With Accompanying Migraine‐Like Features: A Possible Clinical Phenotype
Authors: Taga Arens , Russo Marco , Manzoni Gian Camillo , Torelli Paola
Published: November 2016

Background

There are limited literature data on migraine‐like accompanying features (MLF) in patients with cluster headache (CH). These symptoms are frequently reported by patients and may delay CH diagnosis.

Objective

The aim of the present study was to investigate the occurrence of migraine‐like symptoms in an Italian case series of CH patients and to determine whether these features influence the clinical phenotype of CH.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study was performed in all consecutive patients referred to the Parma Headache Centre between 1975 and 2013 affected by CH; the cases were subsequently reviewed applying the ICHD3‐beta criteria. Our initial study sample consisted of 785 subjects, 569 men (72.5%) and 216 women (27.5%). We then identified those patients who reported at least one of the migraine accompanying symptoms (ie, nausea or vomiting or photophobia and phonophobia).

Results

We found 362 patients (46%) with MLF, 250 men (43.9% of the initial male sample) and 112 women (51.9% of the initial female sample), and 423 patients (54%) without MLF, 319 men (56.1% of the initial male sample) and 104 women (48.1% of the initial female sample). Multiple logistic regression analysis highlighted some demographic and clinical features that significantly characterized patients with MLF after adjusting for confounding: they were more frequently female (OR 1.78, CI 1.11–2.80), with a relatively younger age of onset (OR 1.82, CI 1.06–2.91) than expected, attacks were longer in duration (OR 1.85, CI 1.04–2.46) and accompanied by a more frequent ptosis (OR 1.67, CI 1.04–2.34), sweating (OR 1.63, CI 1.02–2.21), and miosis (OR 1.54, CI 1.12–1.93); osmophobia was also more frequently reported (OR 1.76, CI 1.28–2.46).

Conclusion

Our study confirms the high proportion of CH patients with MLF, which is reported in literature. The presence of MLF seems to relate to some peculiar demographic and clinical characteristics of CH sufferers. Whether these features influence the response to therapy remains to be determined.
Postural Headaches Due to Cerebrospinal Fluid Leakage Through Subarachnoid‐Pleural Fistula: A Case Report
Authors: Lin Sheng‐Feng , Weng Hsing‐Yu
Published: November 2016

Background

Postural headaches are commonly associated with spontaneous intracranial hypotension and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leakage from the spine. A subarachnoid‐pleural fistula (SPF) is a very rare and serious type of CSF fistula that has mostly been reported following traumatic causes.

Case Report

Here, the case of a 36‐year‐old woman who suffered from postural headaches after chiropractic manipulation of her neck was reported. Brain and spinal magnetic resonance (MR) imaging showed brain sagging, a C7‐T1 dural defect, and overt CSF leakage. Heavy T2‐weighted MR myelography revealed paravertebral fluid collections, communicating with pleural effusions through bilateral SPFs. The postural headaches were relieved by 3 courses of epidural blood patches.

Discussions

From the patient's history, her severe SPFs were attributed to rupture of the spinal leptomeninges during vigorous chiropractic manipulation of her neck. Heavy T2‐weighted MR myelography could delineate the route of SPFs and CSF leakages.
Post‐treatment levels of α‐fetoprotein predict long‐term hepatocellular carcinoma development after sustained virological response in patients with hepatitis C
Authors: Tada Toshifumi , Kumada Takashi , Toyoda Hidenori , Kiriyama Seiki , Tanikawa Makoto , Hisanaga Yasuhiro , Kanamori Akira , Kitabatake Shusuke , Yama Tsuyoki , Tanaka Junko
Published: November 2016

Aim

The rate of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) development is reportedly lower in patients with chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) who have achieved a sustained virological response (SVR) than in patients who were unresponsive to therapy. However, the development of HCC is sometimes observed in patients with SVR. Therefore, we clarified the predictive power of clinical factors for HCC incidence in patients with SVR using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis that takes time dependence into account.

Methods

A total of 571 patients with HCV who achieved SVR with interferon‐based therapy were enrolled. Univariate and multivariate Cox proportional hazards models and time‐dependent ROC curves were used to analyze clinical factors associated with the development of HCC.

Results

Twenty‐four patients developed HCC during the follow‐up period (median duration, 9.0 years). The 5‐, 10‐, 15‐, and 20‐year cumulative incidence rates for HCC were 1.7%, 4.8%, 5.8%, and 6.6%, respectively. Multivariate Cox proportional hazards models showed that older age (hazard ratio [HR], 3.648), male sex (HR, 7.560), lower platelet count at 24 weeks after the end of treatment (SVR24) (HR, 3.939), and higher α‐fetoprotein (AFP) at SVR24 (HR, 3.630) were independently associated with HCC development. In addition, time‐dependent ROC analysis showed that, compared to platelet count at SVR24, AFP at SVR24 had higher predictive power for HCC incidence approximately 7 years after SVR.

Conclusions

Elevated AFP at SVR24 is a risk factor for HCC in patients with HCV, even those who achieve SVR. α‐Fetoprotein is a good predictor of HCC development.
Chemical Strengthening of Alkali‐Free Glass via Pressure Vessel Ion Exchange
Authors: Mauro John C. , Truesdale Carlton M. , Adib Kaveh , Whittier Alana M. , Martin Arthur W.
Published: November 2016

Ion exchange is a popular technique for chemically strengthening alkali‐containing glass articles, such as Corning® Gorilla® Glass. The ion exchange process is based on a replacement of small alkali ions in the glass with larger alkali ions from a molten salt bath through inter‐diffusion. As the larger alkali ions from the salt bath supplant the smaller alkali ions in the glass, a compressive stress profile is generated near the surface of the glass, which increases its strength and damage resistance. However, certain applications of high‐tech glasses require alkali‐free environments, such as glasses used as substrates for flat panel display applications. In this paper, we report the first successful chemical strengthening of an alkali‐free glass. This is achieved via an aqueous ion exchange of barium salts under high pressure and temperature. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy reveals that Ba2+ replaces both Ca2+ and B3+ in the glass, producing surface compressive stress values near 200 MPa. This technology may enable chemical strengthening for a wide range of applications, including flat panel display substrates.
Assessing understanding of individual risk and symptoms of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy in patients prescribed natalizumab for multiple sclerosis
Authors: Rath Louise , Vijiaratnam Nirosen , Skibina Olga
Published: November 2016

Background

Natalizumab, a monoclonal antibody directed against α4 integrin, is a highly efficacious treatment commonly used in relapsing remitting multiple sclerosis. Natalizumab is associated with the potentially fatal, rare, demyelinating, opportunistic brain infection, progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML). Prognosis and disability from PML are determined by early diagnosis.

Aims

Written tools are mandated in Australia and other prescribing countries with the aim to help patients understand the risks associated with treatment and ensure familiarity with the early symptoms of PML. We aimed to assess if these tools achieve such an outcome.

Methods

A cross‐sectional survey was conducted using a convenience sample of multiple sclerosis patients prescribed natalizumab presenting to the infusion centre at a major tertiary hospital. Patients were offered a multi‐choice questionnaire to assess their knowledge on the treatment risks and surveillance requirements of their therapy. Three specific questions were highlighted by the researchers as crucial to patient understanding of PML and defined as basic knowledge.

Results

A total of 48 patients in our hospital was prescribed natalizumab; 37 responded. A total of 16 (43.2%) patients answered all three basic knowledge questions correctly. There was no difference in the ability to answer these questions based on length of treatment or co‐ownership knowledge between patients with base knowledge and without.

Conclusion

Natalizumab is associated with an increased risk of PML. Early detection and treatment of PML results in improved patient outcomes. Patient knowledge and co‐partnership in the utilisation of PML risk tools is relevant in ensuring early detection. Our findings question the ability of currently sanctioned tools to inform patients of basic knowledge of PML and their risk of developing PML. A future study with a repetitive education approach and repeating the questionnaire at multiple time points would be of interest.
Ferroptosis, a new form of cell death, and its relationships with tumourous diseases
Authors: Yu Haitao , Guo Pengyi , Xie Xiaozai , Wang Yi , Chen Gang
Published: November 2016

Ferroptosis is a newly discovered type of cell death that differs from traditional apoptosis and necrosis and results from iron‐dependent lipid peroxide accumulation. Ferroptotic cell death is characterized by cytological changes, including cell volume shrinkage and increased mitochondrial membrane density. Ferroptosis can be induced by two classes of small‐molecule substances known as class 1 (system Xc− inhibitors) and class 2 ferroptosis inducers [glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPx4) inhibitors]. In addition to these small‐molecule substances, a number of drugs (e.g. sorafenib, artemisinin and its derivatives) can induce ferroptosis. Various factors, such as the mevalonate (MVA) and sulphur‐transfer pathways, play pivotal roles in the regulation of ferroptosis. Ferroptosis plays an unneglectable role in regulating the growth and proliferation of some types of tumour cells, such as lymphocytoma, ductal cell cancer of the pancreas, renal cell carcinoma (RCC) and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Here, we will first introduce the discovery of and research pertaining to ferroptosis; then summarize the induction mechanisms and regulatory pathways of ferroptosis; and finally, further elucidate the roles of ferroptosis in human tumourous diseases.
Externalizing problems in childhood and adolescence predict subsequent educational achievement but for different genetic and environmental reasons
Authors: Lewis Gary J. , Asbury Kathryn , Plomin Robert
Published: November 2016

Background

Childhood behavior problems predict subsequent educational achievement; however, little research has examined the etiology of these links using a longitudinal twin design. Moreover, it is unknown whether genetic and environmental innovations provide incremental prediction for educational achievement from childhood to adolescence.

Methods

We examined genetic and environmental influences on parental ratings of behavior problems across childhood (age 4) and adolescence (ages 12 and 16) as predictors of educational achievement at age 16 using a longitudinal classical twin design.

Results

Shared‐environmental influences on anxiety, conduct problems, and peer problems at age 4 predicted educational achievement at age 16. Genetic influences on the externalizing behaviors of conduct problems and hyperactivity at age 4 predicted educational achievement at age 16. Moreover, novel genetic and (to a lesser extent) nonshared‐environmental influences acting on conduct problems and hyperactivity emerged at ages 12 and 16, adding to the genetic prediction from age 4.

Conclusions

These findings demonstrate that genetic and shared‐environmental factors underpinning behavior problems in early childhood predict educational achievement in midadolescence. These findings are consistent with the notion that early‐childhood behavior problems reflect the initiation of a life‐course persistent trajectory with concomitant implications for social attainment. However, we also find evidence that genetic and nonshared‐environment innovations acting on behavior problems have implications for subsequent educational achievement, consistent with recent work arguing that adolescence represents a sensitive period for socioaffective development.
Development and validation of an eye care educational programme for intensive care unit nurses
Authors: Cho Ok‐Hee , Yoo Yang‐Sook , Yun Sun‐Hee , Hwang Kyung‐Hye
Published: November 2016

Aims and objectives

To develop and validate an eye care educational programme for intensive care unit nurses.

Background

Eye care guidelines and protocols have been developed for increasing eye care implementation in intensive care units. However, the guidelines lack consistency in assessment or intervention methodology.

Design

This was a one‐sample pre/postprogramme evaluation study design for testing the effects of the eye care educational programme, developed for and applied to intensive care unit nurses, on their levels of knowledge and awareness.

Methods

The eye care educational programme was developed based on literature review and survey of educational needs. Thirty intensive care unit nurses served as subjects for the study.

Results

The levels of eye care‐related knowledge, awareness and practice were enhanced following the implementation of the educational programme. Moreover, satisfaction with the educational programme was high.

Conclusion

It is necessary to intensify eye care education aimed at new nurses who are inexperienced in intensive care unit nursing and provide continuing education on the latest eye care methods and information to experienced nurses.

Relevance to clinical practice

The eye care educational programme developed in this study can be used as a strategy to periodically assess the eye status of patients and facilitate the appropriate eye care.
Concept analysis of safety climate in healthcare providers
Authors: Lin Ying‐Siou , Lin Yen‐Chun , Lou Meei‐Fang
Published: November 2016

Aim and objective

To report an analysis of the concept of safety climate in healthcare providers.

Background

Compliance with safe work practices is essential to patient safety and care outcomes. Analysing the concept of safety climate from the perspective of healthcare providers could improve understanding of the correlations between safety climate and healthcare provider compliance with safe work practices, thus enhancing quality of patient care.

Design

Concept analysis.

Data sources

The electronic databases of CINAHL, MEDLINE, PubMed and Web of Science were searched for literature published between 1995–2015. Searches used the keywords ‘safety climate’ or ‘safety culture’ with ‘hospital’ or ‘healthcare’.

Method

The concept analysis method of Walker and Avant analysed safety climate from the perspective of healthcare providers.

Results

Three attributes defined how healthcare providers define safety climate: (1) creation of safe working environment by senior management in healthcare organisations; (2) shared perception of healthcare providers about safety of their work environment; and (3) the effective dissemination of safety information. Antecedents included the characteristics of healthcare providers and healthcare organisations as a whole, and the types of work in which they are engaged. Consequences consisted of safety performance and safety outcomes. Most studies developed and assessed the survey tools of safety climate or safety culture, with a minority consisting of interventional measures for improving safety climate.

Conclusion

More prospective studies are needed to create interventional measures for improving safety climate of healthcare providers. This study is provided as a reference for use in developing multidimensional safety climate assessment tools and interventional measures.

Relevance to clinical practice

The values healthcare teams emphasise with regard to safety can serve to improve safety performance. Having an understanding of the concept of and interventional measures for safety climate allows healthcare providers to ensure the safety of their operations and their patients.