bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The behaviours that dementia care home staff in South Africa find challenging: An exploratory study
Authors: van Wyk Adele , Manthorpe Jill , Clark Charlotte
Published: January 2016

Background

Behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia are often the reasons for moving to a care home. Care staff, often with limited dementia training, may have to support residents with distressed behaviour on a daily basis. Evidence about the support of residents with distressed or challenging behaviour in the South African context is lacking. This exploratory study aimed to gain an understanding of what care home staff perceived to be distressed behaviour, their coping strategies and how they learned to work with residents with behavioural symptoms of dementia.

Methods

An exploratory study was conducted among 17 participants working in four care homes in the Western Cape province of South Africa in 2014. Semi-structured interviews were audio-recorded. Data were analysed thematically.

Findings

Findings reflected the literature with regard to examples of behavioural symptoms of people with dementia that staff find challenging to manage. Overall, the majority of staff reported holding positive feelings about working with people with dementia. All preferred interpersonal approaches to manage distressed behaviour above medication although a small minority noted the use of medication in some cases. Dementia training was considered by most participants as an unmet need.

Conclusion

This exploratory study identified care home workers’ desires for training about dementia and their preferences for interpersonal as opposed to pharmacological approaches to managing residents’ distressed behaviour. The legacy of race and cultural perspectives in South Africa appears to still influence care practice and provision. Staff commitment, their interest in advancing their practice and their aspirations to offer more person-centred care were evident. Dementia training was identified as potentially helpful to care home staff who manage residents’ distressed behaviour. Training should be developed in South Africa to promote good practice.
How people come to recognise a problem and seek medical help for a person showing early signs of dementia: A systematic review and meta-ethnography
Authors: Perry-Young Lucy , Owen Gareth , Kelly Susan , Owens Christabel
Published: January 2016

Evidence suggests that there is usually a long delay between noticing first signs of dementia and seeking medical help. We conducted a systematic review of what people experience and how they make decisions during this time, and used a meta-ethnographic approach to synthesise the findings. Screening and quality assessment resulted in nine studies eligible for inclusion. People with dementia mainly report experiencing memory lapses, while carers focus on more subtle changes in personality. People respond to these changes in one of three ways: 1) they discount them as normal; 2) they reserve judgement as to their cause and significance, or 3) they misattribute them. Pivotal events can finally trigger help seeking. Active reflection and seeking of further evidence may lead to earlier recognition of the possibility of dementia and the need to seek help; it also reduces the risk of a pivotal event. Public education should aim to improve recognition of more subtle signs and to encourage repeated evaluation and reflection.
For democracy: Planning and publics without the state
Authors: Purcell Mark
Published: January 2016

This article argues that planning should develop a robust conception of “publics without the State.” We should do so because the State is a necessarily oligarchical arrangement that prevents us from achieving real democracy. We should explore publics without the State in both theory and practice.
On ‘the subject’ of planning’s public interest
Authors: Lennon Mick
Published: January 2016

The ‘public interest’ has long been used as a concept to justify planning activity. However, attempts to specify how to determine the public interest have been so plagued with problems that the concept has been effectively abandoned by academia in recent years. This article stresses the ongoing relevance of the public interest concept in planning but does so in a way that reconceives what it entails. This article argues that central to the concept of the public interest is how ‘the subject’ is conceived. It is contended that the currently prevalent collaborative and agonistic approaches to planning present a deficient understanding of the subject as one detached from the intersubjectively formed moral frameworks that provide understanding of context and supply bearing for action. This article seeks to address this deficit by introducing the philosophy of Alasdair MacIntyre to a planning audience. MacIntyre’s communitarian perspective offers an alternative view of the subject by stressing how an evaluation of what constitutes the public interest is unavoidably undertaken from within a shared tradition of moral reasoning. Thus, from a MacIntyrean position, the public interest should not be assumed to simply constitute the end product of correct procedures. This article highlights the importance of acknowledging how identifying the public interest demands situated ethical judgement. The concluding section of this article details the dangers for planning theory and practice of failing to acknowledge this phenomenon.
The Impact of the Soccer Schedule on TV Viewership and Stadium Attendance
Authors: Wang Chang , Goossens Dries , Vandebroek Martina
Published: January 2016

In the past decade, television (TV) broadcasters have been investing a huge amount of money for the Belgian Pro League broadcasting rights. These companies pursue an audience rating maximization, which depends heavily on the schedule of the league matches. At the same time, clubs try to maximize their home attendance and find themselves affected by the schedule as well. Our article aims to capture the Belgian soccer fans’ preferences with respect to scheduling options, both for watching matches on TV and in the stadium. We carried out a discrete choice experiment using an online survey questionnaire distributed on a national scale. The choice sets are based on three match characteristics: month, kickoff time, and quality of the opponent. The first part of this survey concerns TV broadcasting aspects. The second part includes questions about stadium attendance. The choice data are first analyzed with a conditional logit model which assumes homogenous preferences. Then a mixed logit model is fit to model the heterogeneity among the fans. The estimates are used to calculate the expected utility of watching a Belgian Pro League match for every possible setting, either on TV or in the stadium. These predictions are validated in terms of the real audience rating and home attendance data. Our results can be used to improve the scheduling process of the Belgian Pro League in order to persuade more fans to watch the matches on TV or in a stadium.
Ideological Realignment and the Primacy of Symbolic Ideology
Authors: Camobreco John
Published: January 2016

Over the last several decades, scholars have noted a strengthening link between ideology and party identification among the public, but the causal direction of this phenomenon remains contested. The ideological realignment thesis holds that ideology now strongly influences party identification, but this position conflicts with literature suggesting that party identification remains the primary causal force behind most important political attitudes. This study examines the causal forces at work between ideology and party identification by focusing on the distinction between symbolic and operational ideology. The methodology involves the use of panel data that span several decades, and structural equation modeling. The findings indicate that between 1982 and 1997, symbolic ideology had a strong influence party identification, but operational ideology had little effect on party identification. The results suggest an important revision to the ideological realignment thesis, as the evidence indicates that symbolic ideology has been the primary force driving realignment.
Intracranial plaque enhancement from high resolution vessel wall magnetic resonance imaging predicts stroke recurrence
Authors: Kim Jeong-Min , Jung Keun-Hwa , Sohn Chul-Ho , Moon Jangsup , Shin Jung-Hwan , Park Jaeseok , Lee Seung-Hoon , Hee Han Moon , Roh Jae-Kyu
Published: January 2016

Background

Intracranial atherosclerosis is associated with frequent stroke recurrence. High resolution vessel wall magnetic resonance imaging (HRMRI) can provide atheroma information related to its vulnerability.

Aims

We performed HRMRI in stroke patients with intracranial atherosclerosis to determine whether plaque characteristics from vessel wall imaging can predict future stroke recurrence.

Methods

Between July 2011 and June 2013, acute stroke patients with symptomatic intracranial atherosclerosis were prospectively enrolled and 3-tesla HRMRI was performed on the relevant artery. The plaque enhancement was visually determined from T1 post-gadolinium enhancement image. Stroke recurrence was monitored after index event and multivariate Cox proportional hazards model was constructed to identify factors related to future stroke recurrence.

Results

A total of 138 patients were included with a median follow-up of 18 months. There were 39 stroke recurrences. Plaque enhancement was detected in 108 patients (78.3%), and 37 of them experienced stroke recurrence. Among 30 stroke patients without plaque enhancement, two patients experienced stroke recurrence. Kaplan–Meier curves demonstrated a significant difference in event free survival between the patients with plaque enhancement and those patients without plaque enhancement (event rates at year 1: 30.3% vs. 6.8%, log-rank test, p = 0.004). Multivariate Cox-regression analysis showed that the plaque enhancement from HRMRI was independently associated with stroke recurrence (hazard ratio: 7.42, 95% confidence interval: 1.74–31.75, p = 0.007).

Conclusion

Intracranial plaque enhancement from HRMRI is associated with stroke recurrence among the patients with symptomatic intracranial atherosclerosis.
Quality adjusted life year gains associated with administration of recombinant tissue-type plasminogen activator for treatment of acute ischemic stroke: 1998–2011
Authors: Lubeck Deborah P , Danese Mark D , Duryea Jennifer , Halperin Marc , Tayama Darren , Yu Elaine , Lalla Deepa , Grotta James C
Published: January 2016

Background

Intravenous recombinant tissue-type plasminogen activator (r-tPA) is an approved treatment for select patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS). Data indicate r-tPA improves functional outcome three months after AIS compared with placebo. This study models the increase in quality adjusted life years (QALYs) associated with r-tPA compared with similar patients not treated with r-tPA.

Methods

Hospital discharge data for AIS and r-tPA were obtained from the Nationwide Inpatient Sample from 1998 to 2011. Discharge location (home, rehabilitation, long-term care, death) was mapped to modified Rankin Scale (mRS) scores based on National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) Study Group Part 1 and 2 clinical studies. The mRS scores were mapped to relative risk of death and QALYs obtained from the literature. The model estimated expected survival and QALYs by age, gender and mRS for patients receiving r-tPA. Life expectancy and QALYs for patients not receiving r-tPA were estimated based on discharge location and mRS for placebo patients in the NINDS study.

Results

AIS discharges declined from over 635,000 in 1998 to over 593,000 in 2011. A total of 183,235 patients received r-tPA. Utilization of r-tPA increased from 1% of AIS patients in 1998 to over 4% in 2011. Estimated projections for QALYs gained from utilization of r-tPA to QALYS without r-tPA were just under 240,000 for the 13 years and with no discounting, and just over 165,000 assuming 3% annual discounting. In the most conservative scenario, assuming no difference in proportional discharge status (i.e. patients not treated with r-tPA are discharged in the same manner as r-tPA patients), the estimated life years gained are approximately 35,000 and QALYS gained are approximately 90,000.

Conclusions

r-tPA for AIS has resulted in estimated gains in quality-adjusted life years due to reduction in disability and improvement in functioning since its introduction in 1998.
Effect of B-vitamins on stroke risk among individuals with vascular disease who are not on antiplatelets: A meta-analysis
Authors: Park Jong-Ho , Saposnik Gustavo , Ovbiagele Bruce , Markovic Daniela , Towfighi Amytis
Published: January 2016

Background

Retrospective analyses of randomized controlled trials suggest that antiplatelet therapy may modify the potential cerebrovascular benefits of lowering homocysteine with B-vitamins among individuals with cardiovascular disease. We evaluated the effects of B-vitamin supplementation on risk of subsequent stroke among high cardiovascular risk individuals who are not taking antiplatelet medications.

Methods

We systematically searched the Cochrane Central Register of controlled trials, PubMed, the Internet Stroke Center stroke trials, and the clinical trials.gov website from 1966 to April 2015. Inclusion criteria included: randomized controlled trials of homocysteine-lowering therapy with B-vitamins; high cardiovascular risk population and follow-up ≥1 year. We considered stroke as the primary outcome. Among 11 randomized controlled trials meeting inclusion criteria, three studies assessed stroke as an outcome and reported event rates according to whether or not individuals were taking antiplatelets: Vitamin Intervention for Stroke Prevention (VISP), VITAmins TO Prevent Stroke (VITATOPS), and Heart Outcomes Prevention Evaluation 2 (HOPE-2).

Results

A total of 4643 high vascular risk subjects not taking antiplatelets were evaluated. The overall effect size across studies was summarized using the fixed effects model after confirming there was no significant heterogeneity. Heterogeneity was assessed using the Cochran’s Q and I2 statistics. Compared with the control group, those taking B-vitamin supplementation had a lower risk of recurrent stroke (HR 0.86, 95% CI 0.62 to 1.19 for VISP; 0.65, 0.46 to 0.91 for VITATOPS; and 0.60, 0.39 to 0.92 for HOPE-2; overall HR 0.71, 0.58 to 0.88).

Conclusion

Homocysteine lowering with B-vitamins among high vascular risk patients who are not taking antiplatelet therapy is related to a significant reduction (29%) in overall stroke risk. A clinical trial of B-vitamins in this group may be warranted.
Unclear-onset stroke: Daytime-unwitnessed stroke vs. wake-up stroke
Authors: Kim Yeon-Jung , Joon Kim Bum , Kwon Sun U , Kim Jong S , Kang Dong-Wha
Published: January 2016

Background and purpose

The onset of wake-up stroke and daytime-unwitnessed stroke is unclear. Though the clinical importance is similar by both being excluded from reperfusion therapy, the characteristics of daytime-unwitnessed stroke are less known than that of wake-up stroke. Here, we compared the characteristics between daytime-unwitnessed stroke and wake-up stroke.

Methods

Unclear-onset (i.e., last-known normal time ≠ first-found abnormal time) stroke patients admitted within 24 h of recognition of stroke between February 2011 and October 2013 were reviewed. Demographics and clinical and imaging variables were compared between patients with daytime-unwitnessed stroke and those with wake-up stroke.

Results

Among the 762 ischemic stroke patients, 276 (36.2%) had unclear-onset stroke (104 daytime-unwitnessed stroke and 172 wake-up stroke). Compared to wake-up stroke, daytime-unwitnessed stroke patients had a higher prevalence of cardioembolic stroke and more frequently presented altered mental status ( p < 0.001) and/or aphasia ( p < 0.001) with more severe neurological deficit ( p < 0.001). However, the time from symptom recognition to hospital arrival was shorter ( p < 0.001), and diffusion-weighted image–fluid-attenuated inversion recovery image mismatch ( p = 0.02) and perfusion–diffusion mismatch ( p = 0.001) were also more frequently observed in daytime-unwitnessed stroke. Finally, the proportion of patients eligible for thrombolysis ( p < 0.001) was higher in daytime-unwitnessed stroke patients.

Conclusions

Clinical and imaging characteristics of daytime-unwitnessed stroke significantly differ from those of wake-up stroke. Daytime-unwitnessed stroke patients are more likely to receive reperfusion therapy, as they arrive at the hospital earlier after symptom recognition, compared to wake-up stroke patients.
Small intracerebral hemorrhages have a low spot sign prevalence and are less likely to expand
Authors: Dowlatshahi Dar , Yogendrakumar Vignan , Aviv Richard I , Rodriguez-Luna David , Molina Carlos A , Silva Yolanda , Dzialowski Imanuel , Czlonkowska Anna , Boulanger Jean-Martin , Lum Cheemun , Gubitz Gord , Padma Vasantha , Roy Jayanta , Kase Carlos S , Bhatia Rohit , Hill Michael D , Demchuk Andrew M
Published: January 2016

Background

Hematoma expansion is a major predictor of morbidity and mortality after intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). Both baseline hematoma volume and the CT-angiogram (CTA) spot sign predict hematoma expansion. Because the CTA spot sign may represent foci of active hemorrhage, we hypothesized that patients with smaller baseline hematoma volumes are less likely to be spot sign positive, and therefore less likely to expand.

Aim

We sought to validate our prior finding that small hematomas are unlikely to expand, and to determine the relationship between baseline hematoma volume, spot sign status, and risk of hematoma expansion.

Methods

Data were from the prospective PREDICT ICH study. Patients presenting within 6 h of symptom onset with completed baseline CT, CTA, and follow-up CT were included. Baseline hematoma volume was categorized a priori (<3 mL, 3–10 mL, 10–20 mL, >20 mL). The primary outcome was significant hematoma expansion (≥6 mL, ≥12.5 mL or ≥33%) and secondary outcomes were early neurological worsening, good clinical outcome (modified Rankin Scale 0–3), and mortality at 90 days.

Results

Among 315 patients meeting the inclusion criteria, baseline hematoma volume category predicted absolute hematoma expansion ( p < 0.001), spot sign prevalence ( p < 0.001), early neurologic worsening ( p = 0.002), clinical outcome ( p < 0.001), and mortality ( p < 0.001). Very small hematomas (<3 mL) were unlikely to be spot positive (7.7%), unlikely to expand (2.6%), and were associated with a 73% chance of good clinical outcome. Spot sign appeared to be most predictive of expansion in the 3–10 mL baseline hematoma volume category.

Conclusion

Very small hematomas are unlikely to expand and have a low spot sign prevalence. Hemostatic therapy trials may be best targeted at hemorrhages >3 mL in volume.
Comparison between voxel-based and subtraction methods for measuring diffusion-weighted imaging lesion growth after thrombolysis
Authors: Hassen Wajih Ben , Tisserand Marie , Turc Guillaume , Charron Sylvain , Seners Pierre , Edjlali Myriam , Legrand Laurence , Lion Stéphanie , Calvet David , Naggara Olivier , Mas Jean-Louis , Meder Jean-François , Baron Jean-Claude , Oppenheim Catherine
Published: January 2016

Background

Infarct growth (IG) is used as surrogate end-point in therapeutic trials. For practical reasons, infarct growth is commonly assessed using simple subtraction of acute from follow-up diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) lesion volumes. However, the volume subtraction method will underestimate true infarct growth in case of diffusion-weighted imaging lesion reversal.

Aim

To measure the size of the difference between true infarct growth on voxel-based coregistration and infarct growth approximated with simple volume subtraction.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed 322 consecutive stroke patients (median (IQR) age: 70 years (57–80), National Institute of Health Stroke Score at admission 14 (8–19)), who underwent a magnetic resonance imaging before (DWI1) and ≈24 h (DWI2) after IV-thrombolysis. IGvoxel-based was defined as the volume of signal changes on DWI2 that did not overlap with that on coregistered DWI1. This was compared with simply subtracting DWI1 from DWI2 lesion volume (IGsubtracted). We also compared these two metrics for the prediction of three-month unfavorable outcome (mRS ≥ 2) using c-statistics of multivariable models, adjusted for age, and National Institute of Health Stroke Score.

Results

Infarct growth volume metrics were strongly correlated (ρ = 0.94), but IGsubtracted substantially underestimated IGvoxel-based (median (IQR): 9.52 (0.23–38.9) vs. 16.98 (4.4–45.4) mL). Of the 75 patients with shrinking or stable diffusion-weighted imaging lesion using volume subtraction, IGvoxel-based was ≥5 mL in 20 (27% of the subset, 6.2% of the whole population). Moreover, IGvoxel-based better predicted unfavorable outcome than IGsubtracted (c-statistics = 0.86 (95% CI, 0.82–0.90) vs. 0.82 (0.78–0.87), P = 0.003).

Conclusion

At early post-thrombolysis time points, the simple subtraction of lesion volumes masked substantial diffusion-weighted imaging lesion growth in 6.2% of patients. Although more time-consuming, the voxel-based method may impact results of trials that use infarct growth attenuation as an end-point.
Sex differences in cerebral venous thrombosis: A systematic analysis of a shift over time
Authors: Zuurbier Susanna M , Middeldorp Saskia , Stam Jan , Coutinho Jonathan M
Published: January 2016

Background

In contemporary studies, cerebral venous thrombosis is three times more common in adult women than in men.

Aim

To study the change in sex ratio over time in cerebral venous thrombosis.

Summary of review

We systematically reviewed the literature. Any type of study with at least 40 patients with cerebral venous thrombosis that reported sex ratio was eligible. We ranked studies according to the year halfway the period of patient recruitment. Pediatric studies were analyzed separately. Out of 6068 publications identified by our search, 112 studies (23,638 patients), published between 1966 and 2014, were included. The proportion of women among patients with cerebral venous thrombosis significantly increased over time from a median of 54.8% in studies prior to 1981 to 69.8% after 2001 ( p = 0.002). There was a significant correlation between time of the study and proportion of women (Pearson’s correlation coefficient 0.25, p = 0.01). Oral contraceptive use among women with cerebral venous thrombosis also increased over time (Pearson’s correlation coefficient 0.29, p = 0.01). In contrast, the percentage of pregnancy-related cases remained stable (Pearson’s correlation coefficient 0.04, p = 0.77). Among 1702 patients from pediatric studies, 39% were female and there was no correlation between sex ratio and time of the study (Pearson’s correlation coefficient −0.42, p = 0.14).

Conclusions

In adult patients with cerebral venous thrombosis, there is a shift in sex ratio over time with an increase in the proportion of women, whereas this is not observed in pediatric populations. A possible explanation for this phenomenon is an increase over time in the use of oral contraceptives by adult women.
The correlation of initial radiographic characteristics of distal radius fractures and injuries of the triangular fibrocartilage complex
Authors: Kasapinova K. , Kamiloski V.
Published: January 2016

Our purpose was to determine the correlation of initial radiographic parameters of a distal radius fracture with an injury of the triangular fibrocartilage complex. In a prospective study, 85 patients with surgically treated distal radius fractures were included. Wrist arthroscopy was used to identify and classify triangular fibrocartilage complex lesions. The initial radial length and angulation, dorsal angulation, ulnar variance and distal radioulnar distance were measured. Wrist arthroscopy identified a triangular fibrocartilage complex lesion in 45 patients. Statistical analysis did not identify a correlation with any single radiographic parameter of the distal radius fractures with the associated triangular fibrocartilage complex injuries. The initial radiograph of a distal radius fracture does not predict a triangular fibrocartilage complex injury.

Level of evidence: III
Ibogaine-associated cardiac arrest and death: case report and review of the literature
Authors: Meisner Jessica A. , Wilcox Susan R. , Richards Jeremy B.
Published: January 2016

A naturally occurring hallucinogenic plant alkaloid, ibogaine has been used as an adjuvant for opiate withdrawal for the past 50 years. In the setting of an escalating nationwide opiate epidemic, use of substances such as ibogaine may also increase. Therefore, familiarity with the mechanisms and potential adverse effects of ibogaine is important for clinicians. We present the case report of a man whose use of ibogaine resulted in cardiac arrest and death, complemented by a review of the literature regarding ibogaine’s clinical effects. A 40-year-old man who used ibogaine for symptoms of heroin withdrawal suffered acute cardiac arrest leading to cerebral edema and brain death. His presentation was consistent with ibogaine-induced cardiotoxicity and ibogaine-induced cardiac arrest, and a review of the literature regarding the history, mechanisms, risks and clinical outcomes associated with ibogaine is presented. The case presented underscores the significant potential clinical risks of ibogaine. It is important the healthcare community be aware of the possible effects of ibogaine such that clinicians can provide informed counseling to their patients regarding the risks of attempting detoxification with ibogaine.
Changes in Knowledge and Beliefs About Human Papillomavirus and Cervical Cancer Screening Intervals in Low-Income Women After an Educational Intervention
Authors: Roland Katherine B. , Benard Vicki B. , Greek April , Hawkins Nikki A. , Lin Lavinia
Published: January 2016

Introduction: Women have been reluctant to adopt longer than annual intervals for cervical cancer screening, despite guidelines recommending screening every 3 to 5 years. Our study assessed patient knowledge and beliefs about human papillomavirus (HPV) and cervical cancer screening after exposure to an educational intervention, and whether there was a change in time regarding knowledge and beliefs among all study participants in an underserved population. Method: The study was conducted in 15 clinics associated with 6 Federally Qualified Health Centers in Illinois, USA. Cervical cancer screening patients (n = 644) completed a baseline and postintervention follow-up survey. The intervention included an HPV test and an educational pamphlet. Significance testing of changes in knowledge and beliefs was conducted with multilevel, mixed-effects models adjusting for repeated measures of patients and clustering within clinics. Results: No significant differences in study outcomes were found between the intervention and control groups. Among all women, knowledge of HPV significantly improved over time. At follow-up, fewer women reported that having a co-test is good, wise, will give you peace of mind, will tell you whether you need to worry if Pap is abnormal, is something your doctor thinks you should have, and will give you the best care available. More women said it would be bad, useless, or worrying to wait 3 years for a Pap test at follow-up. Conclusion: HPV knowledge improved over time, but the educational intervention utilized in this study was not successful in improving attitudes and beliefs about co-testing and longer screening intervals, and beliefs about HPV co-testing and 3-year screening intervals were less favorable. Having health care providers discuss the consequences of overscreening and the natural history of HPV and cervical cancer with their patients may help increase adherence to longer screening intervals. Further examination of the essential components for educational intervention in this population is warranted.
Do Orthogeriatric Inpatients Have a Correct Medication List? A Pharmacist-Led Assessment of 254 Patients in a Swedish University Hospital
Authors: Wolf Olof , Åberg Henrik , Tornberg Ulrika , Jonsson Kenneth B.
Published: January 2016

Introduction:

Comorbidities and polypharmacy complicate the treatment of geriatric patients with acute orthopedic injuries. A correct medication history and an updated medication list are a prerequisite for safe treatment of these debilitated patients. Published evidence suggests favorable outcomes with comanaged care. The aim of this study was to assess the accuracy of the inpatient medication lists generated at admission and investigate the efficacy of a dedicated ward-based pharmacist to find and correct mistakes in these lists.

Methods:

A total of 254 patients were enrolled. The ward-based pharmacist performed the assessment regarding the accuracy of the medication list generated at admission by the method of medication reconciliation. Number of discrepancies and types of discrepancy were noted.

Results:

The 254 patients (176 women) had a mean age of 85 years (standard deviation 7.4 years, range 42-100 years). The most common reason for orthopedic admission was hip fracture. The mean number of discrepancies was 2.1 for all patients (range 0-13). Omission of a prescribed drug was the most common mistake. Fifty-six (22%) of the 254 assessed patients had a correct medication list.

Discussion:

The many discrepancies in our study may have several explanations but highlight the difficulties in taking a correct medication history of patients in a stressful environment with an extremely high workload. Moreover, electronic medication lists create challenges. Implementing new electronic tools for health care requires feedback, redesign, and adaptation to meet various needs of the users.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, orthogeriatric patients have an unsatisfactory high number of discrepancies in their medication lists. Clinical pharmacists can accurately identify many of these mistakes.
Impact of Leader’s Emotional Intelligence and Transformational Behavior on Perceived Leadership Effectiveness: A Multiple Source View
Authors: Dabke Deepika
Published: January 2016

Emotional intelligence (EI) plays a pivotal role in leadership effectiveness. The present research studied the relationship between performance-based EI and transformational leadership as exhibited by participants in the work role with leadership effectiveness as perceived by their superiors and subordinates. The sample comprised 200 managers who were administered the Mayer, Salovey, and Caruso EI Test and the Multifactor Leadership Questionnaire (MLQ) 5X scale. Superior’s perception of leadership effectiveness was measured via the MLQ 5X scale as well as effectiveness scale developed by Shanock and Eisenberger (2006). Supervisory leadership survey developed by Kerr, Garvin, Heaton, and Boyle (2006) was administered to subordinates to assess their perception of leadership effectiveness. A Pearson’s correlation coefficient revealed that there was a significant positive correlation between subordinates’ perception of leadership effectiveness and overall EQ ( r = 0.27, p < 0.01, n = 200), strategic EQ ( r = 0.24, p < 0.01, n = 200), and experiential EQ ( r = 0.20, p < 0.01, n = 200). All transformational behaviors showed a significant positive correlation with perceived leadership effectiveness ( r ranging from 0.42 to 0.22, p < 0.01). In case of superiors’ rating, a significant positive correlation was seen between perceived leadership effectiveness and strategic EQ ( r = 0.18, p < 0.01) as well as all transformational behaviors ( r ranging from 0.61 to 0.49, p < 0.01). Multiple regressions analysis results led to the emergence of transformational leadership behaviors (β = 0.15, Δ R2 = 0.19, p < 0.01) as a positive predictors of subordinate’s leadership effectiveness explaining a variance of 23 percent. In case of superior’s perception of leadership effectiveness, transformational behaviors explained a variance of 48 percent ( β = 0.27, Δ R2 = 0.19, p < 0.01). In both the cases, EI of the leader failed to emerge as a predictor of perceived effectiveness .
Role of Emotional Intelligence in Leaders on the Commitment Level of Employees: A Study in Information Technology and Manufacturing Sector in India
Authors: Bhalerao Hemangi , Kumar Satishchandra
Published: January 2016

The scope of this study is to explore the role of emotional intelligence (EI) in leaders on the commitment level of the subordinates. Data was collected from dyadic sources using survey method and convenient sampling. Total 155 professionals forming 89 pairs from information technology (IT) and manufacturing sector in India participated in this study.

The results indicate a significant relationship between trait-based EI and affective commitment, when the designations of the leader and the subordinates were controlled. However, no significant results were found between EI and normative and continuance commitments. The result challenges some of the basic assumptions about EI and suggests that the relationship between EI and organizational commitment is complex.
Making the Familiar Strange
Authors: Andrews Deborah C.
Published: January 2016

Business and professional communicators increasingly rely on visual thinking and design strategies to create effective messages. The workplace need for such thinking, however, is not readily accommodated in current pedagogy. A long-running study abroad short course for American students taught in London provides a model for meeting this need. Addressed to students in art and design and framed through principles of discovery learning, the course approach and assignments can be productively adapted to enhance the visual competence of students of professional communication.
Prospects for utilisation of non-vacancy Internet data in labour market analysis—an overview
Authors: Lenaerts Karolien , Beblavý Miroslav , Fabo Brian
Published: January 2016

Along with the advancement of the Internet in the last decade, researchers have increasingly identified the web as a research platform and a data source, pointing out its value for labour market analysis. This article presents a review of online data sources for this field. Specifically, the article introduces web-based research, focusing on the potential of relatively new data sources such as Google Trends, social networks (LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter) and Glassdoor (surveys). For these data sources, a review is done and recent empirical applications are listed. Web-based data can further our understanding of the dynamics of the labour market.

JEL codes: E4, J2
Assessment of off-axis and in-line electron holography for measurement of potential variations in Cu(In,Ga)Se2 thin-film solar cells
Authors: Keller Debora , Buecheler Stephan , Reinhard Patrick , Pianezzi Fabian , Snoeck Etienne , Gatel Christophe , Rossell Marta D. , Erni Rolf , Tiwari Ayodhya N.
Published: January 2016

Electron holography is employed to study variations of the electrostatic crystal potential in Cu(In,Ga)Se2 (CIGS) thin-film solar cells at different length scales: Long-range potential variations across the layer structure of the solar cell as well as inhomogeneities within the layers are analyzed by off-axis holography. In-line holography is applied to examine the local potential variation across a CIGS grain boundary. The phase reconstruction from a focal series is performed by a modified
transport of intensity equation (TIE) which is optimized to reduce common artifacts. For comparison, three different microscopes of different optical configurations were used for in-line holography. Based on the results, the impact of the used microscope as well as further acquisition parameters on the in-line holography measurement is assessed. The measured potential variations are discussed considering the effect of different possible sources that may cause potential fluctuations. It is found that most of the variations are best explained by mean inner potential fluctuations rather than by inhomogeneities of the electronic properties. Finally, the present resolution limit of both methods is discussed regarding the feasibility of future electronic characterization of CIGS by holography.
Reducing uncertainty in characterization of Vaca Muerta Formation Shale with poststack seismic data
Authors: Sharma Ritesh Kumar , Chopra Satinder , Vernengo Luis , Trinchero Eduardo , Sylwan Claudio
Published: January 2016

The Late Jurassic–Early Cretaceous Vaca Muerta (VM) Formation in the Neuquén Basin has served as an important source rock for many of the conventional oil and gas fields in Argentina. With the interest in developing and exploiting shale resources in the country, many companies there have undertaken characterization of the VM Formation in terms of the elements of shale plays. Among other characteristics, shale plays can be identified based on the total-organic-carbon (TOC) content; better TOC leads to better production. However, there is no way of measuring it directly using seismic data, and it can be estimated only indirectly. Considering the influence of TOC on compressional and shear velocities and density, geoscientists have attempted to compute it using the linear or nonlinear relationship it might have with P-impedance. Understanding the uncertainty in using such a relationship for characterizing the VM Formation, a different approach has been followed for characterizing it. Because a linear relationship seems to exist between gamma ray (GR) and TOC, in addition to P-impedance, gamma ray is another parameter of interest for characterizing the VM Formation. Using P-impedance and GR volumes, a Bayesian classification approach has been followed to obtain a reservoir model with different facies based on TOC and the associated uncertainty with it. As the first step, different facies were defined, based on the cutoff values for GR and P-impedance computed from well-log data. Then Gaussian ellipses were used to capture the distribution of data in a crossplot of GR versus P-impedance. Next, 2D probability density functions (PDFs) were created from the ellipses for each of the facies. Combining these PDFs with GR and P-impedance volumes, different facies were identified on the 3D volume. Poststack model-based inversion was used to compute the P-impedance volume, and the probabilistic neural-network (PNN) approach was used to compute GR volume. Derived P-impedance and GR volumes correlated nicely at blind wells on the 3D volume, which gave confidence in the characterization of the VM Formation. An overlay of the discontinuity detail in terms of curvature lineaments on the determined TOC content at the level of interest helps in obtaining a more complete picture, which is useful for the planning of horizontal wells.
Evidence for actin dual role in regulating chromosome organization and dynamics in yeast
Authors: Spichal Maya , Brion Alice , Herbert Sébastien , Cournac Axel , Marbouty Martial , Zimmer Christophe , Koszul Romain , Fabre Emmanuelle
Published: January 2016

Eukaryotic chromosomes undergo movements involved in the regulation of functional processes such as DNA repair. To better understand the origin of these movements, we use fluorescence microscopy, image analysis and chromosome conformation capture to quantify actin contribution to chromosome movements and interactions in budding yeast. We show that both the cytoskeletal and nuclear actin drive local chromosome movements, independently of Csm4, a putative LINC protein. Inhibition of actin polymerization reduces subtelomeres dynamics, resulting in more confined territories and enrichment in subtelomeric contacts. Artificial tethering of actin to nuclear pores increases both NPC and subtelomere motion. Chromosome loci located away from telomere exhibit reduced motion in the presence of an actin polymerization inhibitor, but were unaffected by the lack of Csm4. We further show that actin is required for locus mobility induced by targeting chromatin remodeler protein Ino80. Correlated to this, DNA repair by homologous recombination is less efficient. Overall, interphase chromosome dynamics is modulated by the additive effects of cytoskeletal actin through forces mediated by the nuclear envelope, and nuclear actin probably through its function in chromatin remodelers.
Prevention of Device-Related Healthcare-Associated Infections
Authors: Septimus Edward J. , Moody Julia
Published: January 2016

Healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) are a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in hospitalized patients. Up to 15% of patients develop an infection while hospitalized in the United States, which accounts for approximately 1.7 million HAIs, 99,000 deaths annually and over 10 billion dollars in costs per year. A significant percentage of HAIs are preventable using evidenced-based strategies. In terms of device-related HAIs it is estimated that 65-70% of catheter-line associated bloodstream infections (CLABSIs) and catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs) are preventable. To prevent CLABSIs a bundle which includes hand hygiene prior to insertion and catheter manipulation, use of chlorhexidene alcohol for site preparation and maintenance, use of maximum barrier for catheter insertion, site selection, removing nonessential lines, disinfect catheter hubs before assessing line, and dressing changes are essential elements of basic practices. To prevent CAUTIs a bundle that includes hand hygiene for insertion and catheter or bag manipulation, inserting catheters for appropriate indications, insert using aseptic technique, remove catheters when no longer needed, maintain a close system keeping bag and tubing below the bladder are the key components of basic practices.
Valoração de opções reais híbridas em projetos modularizados: uma metodologia robusta para análise de investimentos
Authors: Vianello Juliano Melquiades , Teixeira José Paulo
Published: January 2016

Em alguns casos pode ser útil para a empresa dividir um projeto em várias subunidades independentes. Esta divisão pode ocorrer, por exemplo, em grandes projetos nos quais são identificados partes integrantes ou módulos com diferentes riscos, retornos, matérias primas, produtos, atividades e mercados.Desta forma, o objetivo deste trabalho é apresentar: os fatores econômicos de risco de um projeto dividido em várias subunidades independentes identificados como relevantes na análise da distribuição probabilística do VPL; o processo estocástico usado para simular cada um destes fatores; os dados necessários para a modelagem do fluxo de caixa identificados na análise das demonstrações contábeis; a distribuição probabilística deste VPL utilizando a metodologia de opções reais de adiar o investimento e parar temporariamente a produção, além do valor isolado e conjunto (híbrido) destas opções para o projeto.
Gestão por competências: a realidade vivenciada por empresas de consultoria em recursos humanos de Florianópolis/SC
Authors: Ferrazza Dayane Scopel , Cunha Dannyela Lemos , Souza Pinto Marli Dias
Published: January 2016

Este estudo aborda a gestão por competências como um serviço prestado por consultorias de recursos humanos da Grande Florianópolis, tema que está presente na pauta de discussão de assuntos gerenciais contemporâneos. Este novo formato de gestão surgiu em decorrência das exigências de crescimento, competitividade e qualidade dos mercados globalizados. Acredita-se que estudar as formas pelas quais a gestão por competências vem se tornando parte das empresas atualmente traz uma visão de como a relação colaborador-empresa é dependente entre si. Para tanto se empreendeu o presente estudo com o objetivo de analisar o processo de implantação da gestão por competências por empresas de consultoria em recursos humanos da Grande Florianópolis/SC. Metodologicamente trata-se de uma pesquisa exploratória descritiva com abordagem qualitativa, tendo a entrevista semi-estruturada como instrumento de coleta de dados. Os dados foram agrupados em quatro grandes blocos de estudo: a gestão por competências nos projetos desenvolvidos pela consultoria; motivos que levam as organizações a buscarem a gestão por competências; aspectos facilitadores e dificultadores da implantação da gestão por competências e perfil dos gestores antes e após a implantação da gestão por competências. Verificou-se que a adoção da gestão por competências parte muito mais de um esforço das próprias consultorias em implantar este serviço junto às empresas clientes do que propriamente do conhecimento e solicitação deste tipo de serviço por parte dos gestores.   Palavras-chave: Gestão por competência. Consultoria. Recursos Humanos.
The clinical end epidemiological characteristics of influenza and acute respiratory infections in North Ossetia-Alania
Authors: Гуриева  , Gurieva Z. , Плиева  , Plieva Zh. , Гипаева  , Gipaeva G. , Отараева  , Otaraeva Bella , Дзгоев  , Dzgoev A.
Published: January 2016

The influenza and acute respiratory infections are one of the medical problems. The relevance of influenza and acute respiratory infections was due to the lack of a persistent immune response and the lack of vaccines against many respiratory viral infections. We have analyzed the latest outbreak of influenza and acute respiratory infections in the North Ossetia-Alania, that occurred in winter 2015. During the analyzed period there was an increase in the incidence of acute respiratory infections by 42,1%. 66 cases of influenza were revealed by the laboratory. In order to reduce the intensity of flu and acute respiratory infections is necessary to observe all types of preventive measures: specific vaccination, chemoprophylaxis with antivirals and following the rules of non-specific prevention.
The spectrum of the biological activity of the stabilized aqueous extract from the liver of barbed shark (Squalus Acanthias)
Authors: Батагова  , Batagova Fatima , Албегова  , Albegova Zhanna
Published: January 2016

The paper provides the review of the research results of the biological activity of the preparation of the animal origin – a stabilized water extract from the liver of barbed shark (Squalusacanthias) spiny dogfish. The investigations conducted on a large number of laboratory animals (580 rats, 200 mice) allow us to conclude the presence in the extract the wide variety of pharmacologically important properties: antioxidant, hepatoprotective, anti-carcinogenic, gematoproteсtive, adjuvant, as well as several others. However it is necessary to test the further clinical investigations of this preparation.
TRIBOLOGICAL BEHAVIOR OF 42CrMo4 STEEL NITRIDED BY PLASMA
Authors: Saied Chahinez , Chala Abdelouahed , Belahssen Okba , Benramache Said
Published: January 2016

This paper presents wear behavior of the plasma nitrided 42CrMo4 steel. This steel is used in mechanical industry; it has been assessed by evaluating tribological properties and surface hardness by using a pin-on-disk wear machine and microhardness tester. Experimental results showed that the nitrides ε-Fe2-3N and γ’-Fe4N present in the compound layer increase the microhardness. It is found that plasma nitriding improves the wear rate and the presence of a hard and brittle compound layer on the surface causes an increase in wear of the specimen surface.