bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Crystal structure of triphenylphosphoniummethylenetrifluoroborate
Authors: Bateman Christopher M. , Zakharov Lev N. , Abbey Eric R.
Published: July 2017

The title compound, C19H17BF3P {alternative name: triphenyl[(trifluoroboranyl)methyl]phosphanium}, was formed by the reaction of triphenylphosphine with potassium iodomethyltrifluoroborate. The molecule features a nearly staggered conformation along the P—C bond and a less than staggered conformation along the C—B bond. In the crystal, weak C—H...F hydrogen bonds between the meta-phenyl C—H groups and the trifluoroborate B—F groups form chains of R
2
2(16) rings along [100]. These chains are are further stabilized by weak C—H...π interactions. A weak intramolecular C—H...F hydrogen bond is also observed.
Insertion force analysis of compliantly supported peg-in-hole assembly
Authors: Pitchandi Nagarajan , Subramanian Saravana Perumaal , Irulappan Muhilan
Published: July 2017

Purpose

This paper aims to estimate the required insertion force and to analyze the influence of damping in a compliantly supported chamfered peg-in-hole assembly under dynamic conditions.

Design/methodology/approach

A mathematical model of the insertion process, including damping coefficient and stiffness of the compliance, insertion speed, mass, inertia and friction coefficient, has been developed. Computer aided design (CAD) model of the peg-in-hole assembly environment with passive compliance is created. The dynamic insertion force of the modeled environment is analyzed using multibody dynamics numerical solver.

Findings

The damping property of the viscoelastic materials used in the passive compliances suppresses the vibration caused due to the impulses in the transition of the peg in hole. It also increases the insertion force required for the peg insertion at the initial stage.

Research limitations/implications

As the search strategies are not considered in this work, it is assumed that the initial contact is ensured between the chamfer and the peg of the assembly. A constant insertion speed is maintained throughout the insertion. Otherwise, it could have been varied at different stages of the insertion for reducing the assembly time.

Practical implications

The developed assembly model can be used for predicting the insertion forces of a chamfered peg-in-hole assembly and for designing/selecting the compliance device for the required assembly environment.

Originality/value

The proposed insertion model has considered the damping and elastic property of the compliance material as a parallel arrangement of spring and dashpot. This approach aids in modeling an insertion process closer to real-time assembly process.
An integrative model for understanding team organizational citizenship behavior
Authors: Somech Anit , Khotaba Soha
Published: July 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to use a model to broaden the understanding of the organizational citizenship behavior (OCB) phenomenon in educational teams and examines team OCB’s mediating role in the relation of the contextual variables of team justice climate (distributive justice, procedural justice, interpersonal justice) to team psychological capital (PsyCap) and team innovation.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected through a survey consisting of validated scales. The sample covered 78 disciplinary teams, 78 coordinators and 13 school principals at 13 junior-high schools.

Findings

The PROCESS test confirmed the mediating role of team OCB, showing positive relations between team procedural justice and team PsyCap and team OCB, and also between team OCB and team innovation.

Research limitations/implications

By taking a team perspective, the findings offer evidence that despite the usual approach treating OCB as an individual phenomenon; it may be regarded as shared norms of behaviors at the team level.

Practical implications

The team-level approach may urge principals and other educational leaders to realize that teachers’ willingness to invest extra effort in school is mainly the result of an appropriate team context, which can be shaped and developed.

Originality/value

The present study explored team OCB by from a context perspective. This is important because to date most studies on OCB in schools have focused on teacher OCB as an individual phenomenon, disregarding its contextual nature.
Teacher-principal race and teacher satisfaction over time, region
Authors: Viano Samantha L. , B. Hunter Seth
Published: July 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to replicate prior findings on teacher-principal race congruence and teacher job satisfaction and extend the literature by investigating trends over time and if the relationship between race congruence and teacher job satisfaction differs by principal race and region.

Design/methodology/approach

The study sample comes from four waves of cross-sectional data, the nationally representative Schools and Staffing Survey, administered between 2000 and 2012. The analysis is conducted using ordinary least squares and school-year fixed effects with a comprehensive set of covariates.

Findings

The relationship between race congruence and teacher job satisfaction is attenuating over time and is likely explained by the lower job satisfaction of white teachers who work for black principals. Some evidence indicates teacher-principal race congruence has greater salience in the Southern region of the country. Find evidence that teachers with race-congruent principals report more workplace support than their non-race congruent colleagues.

Research limitations/implications

Future studies should investigate why racial congruence has more salience in the Southern region of the country and for white teachers who work with black principals. At the same time, results indicate that teacher-principal race congruence might no longer be a determinant of teacher job satisfaction, although further studies should continue investigating this relationship.

Originality/value

Findings on the changing nature of the relationship between principal-teacher race congruence and teacher job satisfaction over time as well as the differing nature of race congruence in the Southern region of the country are both novel findings in the literature.
Analyzing heterogeneity on the value, satisfaction, word-of-mouth relationship in retailing
Authors: Fuentes-Blasco María , Moliner-Velázquez Beatriz , Gil-Saura Irene
Published: July 2017

Purpose

The literature recognizes the need to study differences in consumer behavior in highly competitive and dynamic markets. In this paper, the authors look at how the heterogeneous evaluation of retailing influences customer satisfaction and loyalty. The purpose of this paper is to analyze unobserved heterogeneity on customer value dimensions perceptions in retail establishments, and their potential effects on positive forms of behavioral outcomes considering customer satisfaction as a mediating variable.

Design/methodology/approach

On a sample of 820 retail customers, the authors apply a finite mixture structural equation modeling that analyzes unobserved heterogeneity simultaneously. In this model, the authors study the influence of heterogeneous perceptions of excellence, efficiency, entertainment and aesthetics on customer satisfaction and of satisfaction on word-of-mouth (WOM) referral and WOM activity.

Findings

The results show two latent segments where the intensity of causal relations varies, which means that the effect of value dimensions and satisfaction are over or underestimated when heterogeneity is ignored.

Originality/value

The main value of the paper has been to analyze the potential heterogeneity of value dimensions (intravariable approach), and their links with satisfaction and some dimensions of loyalty (intervariable approach). Customer heterogeneity must be studied to understand the satisfaction process and WOM responses in order to design more efficient and effective relationship marketing strategies.
Distribution of CYP2C8 and CYP2C9 amino acid substitution alleles in South Indian diabetes patients: A genotypic and computational protein phenotype study
Authors: Rao Durga Koteswara , Murthy Dwaraknath K , Shaik Nazia Sultana , Banaganapalli Babajan , Konda Kumaraswami , Rao Hanmantha P , Ganti Eswar , Ahmed Awan Zuhair , A El‐Harouni Ashraf , Elango Ramu , Ali Khan Imran , Shaik Noor Ahmad
Published: July 2017

The CYP2C8 and CYP2C9 are two major isoforms of the cytochrome P450 enzyme family, which is involved in drug response, detoxification, and disease development. This study describes the differential distribution of amino acid substitution variants of CYP2C8 (*2‐I269F & *3‐R139K) and CYP2C9 (*2‐C144R & *3‐L359A) genes in 234 type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients and 218 healthy controls from Andhra Pradesh, South India. Single locus genotype analysis has revealed that homozygous recessive genotypes of 2C8*2‐TT (P ≤ .03), 2C9*2‐TT (P ≤ .02), and heterozygous 2C9*3‐AC (P ≤ .006) are seen to be increasingly present in the case group, indicating a significant level of their association with diabetes in Andhra population. The statistical significance of these recessive genotypes has persisted even under their corresponding allelic forms (P ≤ .01). Genotype association results were further examined by computational protein structure and stability analysis to assess the deleteriousness of the amino acid changes. The mutant CYP 2C8 and 2C9 (both *2 and *3) proteins showed structural drifts at both amino acid residue (range 0.43Å‐0.77Å), and polypeptide chain levels (range 0.68Å‐1.81Å) compared to their wild‐type counterparts. Furthermore, the free energy value differences (range –0.915 to –1.38 Kcal/mol) between mutant and native protein structures suggests the deleterious and destabilizing potential of amino acid substitution polymorphisms of CYP genes. The present study confirms the variable distribution of CYP2C8 (*2 and *3) and CYP2C9 (*2 and *3) allelic polymorphisms among South Indian diabetic populations and further warrants the serious attention of CYP gene family, as a putative locus for disease risk assessment and therapy.
Follow‐up after intensive care treatment: a questionnaire survey of intensive care aftercare in Denmark
Authors: Kjer C. K. W. , Estrup S. , Poulsen L. M. , Mathiesen O.
Published: July 2017

Background

Rehabilitation efforts after treatment in the intensive care unit (ICU) are termed intensive care aftercare. It includes both early in‐hospital follow‐up after ICU‐discharge and late follow‐up after hospital discharge. This study aims to investigate the current ICU‐aftercare activities in Denmark.

Methods

We conducted an electronic questionnaire survey, which was distributed by e‐mail to the heads of all 31 general ICUs in Denmark. Specialized ICUs were not included. The questionnaire was divided into the following sections: early ICU‐aftercare, late ICU‐aftercare, future development and demographics.

Results

Thirty‐one ICUs were invited to participate. The response rate was 100%. Overall, 26 of 31 ICUs (84%) offered ICU‐aftercare, with the following distribution: early ICU‐aftercare (58%), late ICU‐aftercare (57%) and both (29%). There were no significant associations between hospital size and provision of ICU‐aftercare. For early ICU‐aftercare, the most common eligibility criteria were based on ICU length of stay (LOS) (44%) and a decision based upon doctors' discretion (22%). Incidence of guidelines for early ICU‐aftercare (44%) and checklists at patient contact (35%) were sparse. The most common early ICU‐aftercare items were as follows: respiratory care (82%), tracheostomy care (59%) and nutritional care (59%). For late ICU‐aftercare, the most common eligibility criterion was LOS (41%). Guidelines (71%), but not checklist at patient contact (35%), were more common. Most frequent late ICU‐aftercare interventions were review of ICU‐diaries (59%) and patient charts (53%).

Conclusion

Eighty‐four per cent of Danish ICUs offered ICU‐aftercare to their patients. There was an abundant heterogeneity of eligibility criteria and ICU‐aftercare interventions.
Post‐reintroduction distribution and habitat preferences of a spatially limited island bird species
Authors: Massaro M. , Chick A. , Kennedy E. S. , Whitsed R.
Published: July 2017

Investigating habitat use and preferences of a threatened species can be challenging, especially if wild populations have decreased to such low numbers that they occupy only fractions of their former natural range. Hence, assessing habitat suitability of a potential release site for a threatened speciesbeforea reintroduction attempt can be difficult because frequently no comparable baseline data are available. In these instances, post‐release monitoring data can inform about habitat use and preferences of a reintroduced species. Here, we use monitoring data of an endangered endemic island bird, the Chatham Island black robinPetroica traversi, to investigate habitat preferences and the temporal change in distribution patterns across 26 years following a reintroduction. We show that densities and distribution of black robin pairs at the reintroduction site have changed significantly over the years. Spatial distribution of pairs is clustered, and this clustering has intensified as the population increased. We used the maximum entropy method MaxEnt to model habitat suitability on the island, showing that black robins clearly prefer forested areas inland that are within 70 m to the forest edge at lower elevations (<40 m a.s.l.) and on slopes that have a N‐NEaspect. The model also identified one area on the island that comprises suitable habitat, but is currently uninhabited. Applying maximum observed densities to the available area of each suitability class, carrying capacity is estimated as 170 nesting pairs across the island, highlighting the need to find further appropriate habitat urgently. Overall, these topographical and habitat preferences considerably restrict this species' potential distribution, a constraint that has serious conservation implications for future population growth of current populations and (re)introductions to new locations. This study demonstrates that post‐release data can reveal relevant limitations to habitat use of highly threatened species.
Challenges the addiction field must overcome to avert being the Cinderella of medicine
Authors: Lingford‐Hughes Anne
Published: July 2017

Commentary to: Precision medicine and pharmacogenetics: what does oncology have that addiction medicine does not?
Population dynamics and seasonal variation in the embryonic dormancy of Pilophorus gallicus (Hemiptera: Miridae): ‘don't put all your eggs in one basket'
Authors: Ramírez‐Soria Maria José , López‐Gallego Elena , La‐Spina Michelangelo , Sanchez Juan A.
Published: July 2017

Pilophorus gallicus Remane is a generalist predator in southern European pear orchards. Nymphs and adults are present in orchards from March to November; their winter absence suggests either migration to other hosts or embryonic dormancy on pear trees to overcome the adverse period. In addition, it has been hypothesized that aestivation takes place to cope with extreme summer conditions.

The present study aimed to investigate the reproductive strategy of P. gallicus to overcome unfavourable periods. Accordingly, (i) its population dynamics were followed during several years and (ii) females were sampled in three different seasons to study the condition (diapausing or nondiapausing) of the laying.

The results obtained show that nymphs were always the first mobile instar to show up in pear orchards and the presence of adults was delayed, indicating egg overwintering. Nondiapausing eggs prevailed in spring and summer, whereas the autumn eggs were mainly diapausing. Aestivation was rejected.

Worthy of note are: (i) the presence of diapausing eggs under favourable conditions and (ii) the existence of females laying both diapausing and nondiapausing eggs; thus, ‘not laying all the eggs in one basket’. The reproductive strategy of P. gallicus is considered as bet‐hedging for the short‐ and long‐term survival of the species.
A comparative study on basophil activation test, histamine release assay, and passive sensitization histamine release assay in the diagnosis of peanut allergy
Authors: Larsen L. F. , Juel‐Berg N. , Hansen K. S. , Clare Mills E. N. , van Ree R. , Poulsen L. K. , Jensen B. M.
Published: July 2017

Background

Allergy can be diagnosed using basophil tests. Several methods measuring basophil activation are available. This study aimed at comparing basophil activation test (BAT), histamine release assay (HR), and passive sensitization histamine release assay (passive HR) in the diagnosis of peanut allergy.

Methods

BAT, HR, and passive HR were performed on 11 peanut‐allergic and 14 nonallergic subjects. Blood was incubated with peanut extract or anti‐IgE and tests were performed as follows: BAT—CD63 upregulation was assessed by flow cytometry; HR—released histamine was quantified by a glass fiber‐based fluorometric method; passive HR—IgE‐stripped donor basophils were incubated with participants' serum and histamine release was quantified as HR.

Results

CDsens, a measure of basophil allergen sensitivity, was significantly higher for BAT (80.1±17.4) compared to HR (23.4±10.31) and passive HR (11.1±2.0). BAT, HR, and passive HR had a clinical sensitivity of 100%, 100%, and 82% and specificity of 100%, 100%, and 100%, respectively, when excluding inconclusive results. BAT identified 11 of 11 allergic patients, HR 10, and passive HR 9. Likewise, BAT recognized 12 of 14 nonallergic subjects, HR 10, and passive HR 13. However, the tests' diagnostic performances were not statistically different. Interestingly, nonreleasers in HR but not in BAT had lower basophil count compared to releasers (249 vs 630 counts/min).

Conclusion

BAT displayed a significantly higher CDsens compared to HR and passive HR. The basophil tests' diagnostic performances were not significantly different. Still, BAT could diagnose subjects with low basophil number in contrast to HR.
Adrenalectomy for incidentaloma: lessons learned from a single‐centre series of 274 patients
Authors: Gaujoux Sébastien , Aimé Adeline , Assié Guillaume , Ciuni Roberto , Bonnet Stéphane , Tenenbaum Florence , Bertherat Jérome , Dousset Bertrand
Published: July 2017

Background

Adrenal incidentalomas are increasingly diagnosed and include a wide spectrum of lesions from benign adenomas to secreting or malignant lesions. The aim of the present study is to report a large single‐institution experience of patients undergoing surgery for adrenal incidentaloma with particular attention to their diagnosis and post‐operative course and the evolution of surgical practice over time.

Methods

From 1993 to 2013, 274 patients underwent adrenalectomy for incidentaloma. All patients underwent standardized clinical, hormonal and imaging assessments.

Results

Patients were mainly female (63.1%; n = 173), and the median age of patients was 56.5 years. After a complete hormonal evaluation, 47.9% (n = 129) of incidentalomas were classified as secreting tumours, including 24.4% (n = 67) subclinical cortisol‐secreting adenomas and 18.9% (n = 52) pheochromocytomas. Adrenocortical carcinomas represented 9.5% (n = 26) of incidentalomas, and the risk of malignancy was significantly correlated with tumour size. The conversion rate after laparoscopic adrenalectomy (90.9%; n = 249) was 3.2% (n = 8). The overall morbidity rate was 13.9%, which included a 4.4% rate of severe morbidity (Clavien–Dindo ≥3). From 2008 onwards, there was a significant decrease (P < 0.001) in the use of surgical approaches for non‐secreting adenomas.

Conclusion

After a complete work‐up, half of the incidentalomas were classified as subclinical oversecreting adrenal lesions and 10% proved to be malignant adrenocortical carcinomas. The debatable use of surgical approaches for benign nonfunctioning adenomas significantly decreased over time.
The Finnish national guideline for diagnosis, treatment and follow‐up of patients with wet age‐related macular degeneration
Authors: Tuuminen Raimo , Uusitalo‐Järvinen Hannele , Aaltonen Vesa , Hautala Nina , Kaipiainen Sulevi , Laitamäki Nina , Ollila Marko , Rantanen Jari , Välimäki Satu , Sipilä Raija , Laukkala Tanja , Komulainen Jorma , Tommila Petri , Immonen Ilkka , Tuulonen Anja , Kaarniranta Kai
Published: July 2017

Age‐related macular degeneration (AMD) is the main cause of visual impairment in developed countries. Several improvements in the visualization of posterior segment of the eye together with the introduction of intravitreal anti‐VEGF treatment have revolutionized the prognosis of the wet form of AMD (wAMD). Increasing incidence of wAMD together with the limited resources of society and of the healthcare system poses challenges for the provision and development of care. In context of these current aspects, we aimed to set evidence‐based medical guidelines for diagnosis, treatment and follow‐up of patients with wAMD.
Alcohol exposure during pregnancy altered childhood developmental trajectories in a rural South African community
Authors: Davies Leigh‐Anne , Cockcroft Kate , Olinger Lynda , Chersich Matthew , Urban Michael , Chetty Makkan Candice M. , Turnbull Oliver H. , Olivier Leana , Viljoen Denis
Published: July 2017

Aim

This study examined the effects of prenatal alcohol exposure on childhood development trajectories in a rural South African community between 2003 and 2008.

Methods

We assessed 121 children at 7–12 months (year one) and 5–6 years (year five) using the Griffiths Mental Developmental Scales – Extended Revised, which measures sensorimotor, cognitive and social development, with lower scores indicating developmental delay. We also interviewed their mothers or caregivers. Three groups were identified: 29 with foetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) or partial FAS (pFAS), 57 more who had been exposed to alcohol and 35 controls who had not.

Results

The scale's total score was higher in the controls than in the FAS/pFAS group at year one and year five and in the alcohol‐exposed group at year five. Many groups’ trajectories declined when compared with global norms, but the trajectories in the FAS/pFAS and the alcohol‐exposed groups declined more than the controls for eye‐hand and performance and total score. Earlier pregnancy recognition in the FAS/pFAS group correlated strongly (r = −0.77) with higher GQ in year five.

Conclusion

FAS/pFAS and prenatal alcohol exposure affected the Griffiths scores more than the control group. Efforts are needed to detect pregnancy early and reduce alcohol exposure.
Relaxing Responses to Hydrogen Peroxide and Nitric Oxide in Human Pericardial Resistance Arteries Stimulated with Endothelin‐1
Authors: Leurgans Thomas M. , Bloksgaard Maria , Irmukhamedov Akhmadjon , Riber Lars P. , De Mey Jo G. R.
Published: July 2017

In human pericardial resistance arteries, effects of the endothelium‐dependent vasodilator bradykinin are mediated by NO during contraction induced by K+ or the TxA2 analogue U46619 and by H2O2 during contraction by endothelin‐1 (ET‐1), respectively. We tested the hypotheses that ET‐1 reduces relaxing effects of NO and increases those of H2O2 in resistance artery smooth muscle of patients with cardiovascular disease. Arterial segments, dissected from the parietal pericardium of 39 cardiothoracic surgery patients, were studied by myography during amplitude‐matched contractions induced by K+, the TXA2 analogue U46619 or ET‐1. Effects of the NO donor Na‐nitroprusside (SNP) and of exogenous H2O2 were recorded in the absence and presence of inhibitors of cyclooxygenases, NO synthases and small and intermediate conductance calcium‐activated K+ channels. During contractions induced by either of the three stimuli, the potency of SNP did not differ and was not modified by the inhibitors. In vessels contracted with ET‐1, the potency of H2O2 was on average and in terms of interindividual variability considerably larger than in K+‐contracted vessels. Both differences were not statistically significant in the presence of inhibitors of mechanisms of endothelium‐dependent vasodilatation. In resistance arteries from patients with cardiovascular disease, ET‐1 does not selectively modify smooth muscle relaxing responses to NO or H2O2. Furthermore, the candidate endothelium‐derived relaxing factor H2O2 also acts as an endothelium‐dependent vasodilator.
BSACI guideline for the diagnosis and management of allergic and non‐allergic rhinitis (Revised Edition 2017; First edition 2007)
Authors: Scadding G. K. , Kariyawasam H. H. , Scadding G. , Mirakian R. , Buckley R. J. , Dixon T. , Durham S. R. , Farooque S. , Jones N. , Leech S. , Nasser S. M. , Powell R. , Roberts G. , Rotiroti G. , Simpson A. , Smith H. , Clark A. T.
Published: July 2017

This is an updated guideline for the diagnosis and management of allergic and non‐allergic rhinitis, first published in 2007. It was produced by the Standards of Care Committee of the British Society of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, using accredited methods. Allergic rhinitis is common and affects 10–15% of children and 26% of adults in the UK, it affects quality of life, school and work attendance, and is a risk factor for development of asthma. Allergic rhinitis is diagnosed by history and examination, supported by specific allergy tests. Topical nasal corticosteroids are the treatment of choice for moderate to severe disease. Combination therapy with intranasal corticosteroid plus intranasal antihistamine is more effective than either alone and provides second line treatment for those with rhinitis poorly controlled on monotherapy. Immunotherapy is highly effective when the specific allergen is the responsible driver for the symptoms. Treatment of rhinitis is associated with benefits for asthma. Non‐allergic rhinitis also is a risk factor for the development of asthma and may be eosinophilic and steroid‐responsive or neurogenic and non‐ inflammatory. Non‐allergic rhinitis may be a presenting complaint for systemic disorders such as granulomatous or eosinophilic polyangiitis, and sarcoidoisis. Infective rhinitis can be caused by viruses, and less commonly by bacteria, fungi and protozoa.
Is primary hyperparathyroidism a cause of endothelial dysfunction?
Authors: Colak Sevgi , Aydogan Berna Imge , Gokcay Canpolat Asena , Tulunay Kaya Cansin , Sahin Mustafa , Corapcioglu Demet , Uysal Ali Riza , Emral Rifat
Published: July 2017

Objective

Symptomatic primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT) is thought to be related to increased cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. In our study, we aimed to investigate endothelial dysfunction and markers of subclinical atherosclerosis in patients with PHPT. Also we aimed to demonstrate the effect of vitamin D supplementation on these parameters.

Materials and methods

Twenty‐nine patients followed by medical treatment (A), 25 preoperative (B) and 23 postoperative patients with PHPT (C), and 26 normocalcaemic subjects (D) were included. Groups were assessed by measurements of flow‐mediated dilation (FMD), carotid intima‐media thickness (CIMT), serum levels of sCD40L, high‐sensitivity CRP (hs‐CRP) and interleukin‐8 (IL‐8). Thirteen patients with low levels of 25‐hydroxy‐vitamin D (25OHD) in the medical treatment group were assessed before and 3 months after vitamin D replacement.

Results

The median FMD was 5% in group A, 5.1% in group B, 7.6% in group C and 7.7% in group D. The FMD measurement in group A was significantly lower than groups C and D (P=.02) and was similar to the FMD measurement in group B. FMD measurements of group B were not significantly lower than groups C and D. In 13 patients with low 25OHD in group A, the median FMD increased to 7.07% from 4.71% after vitamin D replacement (P=.02).

Conclusion

Flow‐mediated dilation was impaired in patients with PHPT, particularly in the medically observed group. Vitamin D supplementation seems to provide improvements in FMD in medically observed PHPT patients with low 25OHD levels, and this was the novel observation of our study.
Inequalities in English child protection practice under austerity: A universal challenge?
Authors: Bywaters Paul , Brady Geraldine , Bunting Lisa , Daniel Brigid , Featherstone Brid , Jones Chantel , Morris Kate , Scourfield Jonathan , Sparks Tim , Webb Calum
Published: July 2017

The role that area deprivation, family poverty, and austerity policies play in the demand for and supply of children's services has been a contested issue in England in recent years. These relationships have begun to be explored through the concept of inequalities in child welfare, in parallel to the established fields of inequalities in education and health. This article focuses on the relationship between economic inequality and out‐of‐home care and child protection interventions. The work scales up a pilot study in the West Midlands to an all‐England sample, representative of English regions and different levels of deprivation at a local authority (LA) level. The analysis evidences a strong relationship between deprivation and intervention rates and large inequalities between ethnic categories. There is further evidence of the inverse intervention law (Bywaters et al., 2015): For any given level of neighbourhood deprivation, higher rates of child welfare interventions are found in LAs that are less deprived overall. These patterns are taking place in the context of cuts in spending on English children's services between 2010–2011 and 2014–2015 that have been greatest in more deprived LAs. Implications for policy and practice to reduce such inequalities are suggested.
Homozygosity for a missense variant in COMP gene associated with severe pseudoachondroplasia
Authors: Tariq M. , Khan T.N. , Lundin L. , Jameel M. , Lönnerholm T. , Baig S.M. , Dahl N. , Klar J.
Published: July 2017

The phenotypic spectrum associated with heterozygous mutations in cartilage oligomeric matrix protein gene (COMP) range from a mild form of multiple epiphyseal dysplasia (MED) to pseudoachondroplasia (PSACH). However, the phenotypic effect from biallelic COMP variants is unclear. We investigated a large consanguineous Pakistani family with a severe form of PSACH in 2 individuals. Another 14 family members presented with a mild PSACH phenotype similar to MED. Using exome sequencing and subsequent segregation analysis, we identified homozygosity for a COMP missense variant [c.1423G>A; p.(D475N)] in the 2 severely affected individuals, whereas family members with the mild PSACH phenotype were heterozygous. Our observations show for the first time that a biallelic COMP variant may be associated with pronounced and widespread skeletal malformations suggesting an additive effect of the 2 mutated alleles.
Genetic characterization of GSD I in Serbian population revealed unexpectedly high incidence of GSD Ib and 3 novel SLC37A4 variants
Authors: Skakic A. , Djordjevic M. , Sarajlija A. , Klaassen K. , Tosic N. , Kecman B. , Ugrin M. , Spasovski V. , Pavlovic S. , Stojiljkovic M.
Published: July 2017

Glycogen storage disease (GSD) type I is inborn metabolic disease characterized by accumulation of glycogen in multiple organs. We analyzed 38 patients with clinical suspicion of GSD I using Sanger and next‐generation sequencing (NGS). We identified 28 GSD Ib and 5 GSD Ia patients. In 5 patients, GSD III, VI, IX, cholesteryl‐ester storage disease and Shwachman‐Diamond syndrome diagnoses were set using NGS. Incidences for GSD Ia and GSD Ib were estimated at 1:172 746 and 1:60 461 live‐births, respectively. Two variants were identified in G6PC gene: c.247C>T (p.Arg83Cys) and c.518T>C (p.Leu173Pro). In SLC37A4 gene, 6 variants were detected. Three previously reported variants c.81T>A (p.Asn27Lys), c.162C>A (p.Ser54Arg) and c.1042_1043delCT (p.Leu348Valfs*53) accounted for 87% of all analyzed alleles. Computational, transcription studies and/or clinical presentation in patients confirmed pathogenic effect of 3 novel variants: c.248G>A (p.Gly83Glu), c.404G>A (p.Gly135Asp) and c.785G>A (p.Ser263Glyfs*33 or p.Gly262Asp). In the cohort, hepatomegaly, hypoglycemia and failure to thrive were the most frequent presenting signs of GSD Ia, while hepatomegaly and recurrent bacterial infections were clinical hallmarks of GSD Ib. All GSD Ib patients developed neutropenia while 20.6% developed inflammatory bowel disease. Our study revealed the highest worldwide incidence of GSD Ib. Furthermore, description of 3 novel variants will facilitate medical genetic practice.
Bird‐community responses to habitat creation in a long‐term, large‐scale natural experiment
Authors: Whytock Robin C. , Fuentes‐Montemayor Elisa , Watts Kevin , Barbosa De Andrade Patanjaly , Whytock Rory T. , French Paul , Macgregor Nicholas A. , Park Kirsty J.
Published: July 2017

Ecosystem function and resilience are compromised when habitats become fragmented due to land‐use change. This has led to national and international conservation strategies aimed at restoring habitat extent and improving functional connectivity (i.e., maintaining dispersal processes). However, biodiversity responses to landscape‐scale habitat creation and the relative importance of spatial and temporal scales are poorly understood, and there is disagreement over which conservation strategies should be prioritized. We used 160 years of historic post‐agricultural woodland creation as a natural experiment to evaluate biodiversity responses to habitat creation in a landscape context. Birds were surveyed in 101 secondary, broadleaf woodlands aged 10–160 years with ≥80% canopy cover and in landscapes with 0‐17% broadleaf woodland cover within 3000 m. We used piecewise structural equation modeling to examine the direct and indirect relationships between bird abundance and diversity, ecological continuity, patch characteristics, and landscape structure and quantified the relative conservation value of local and landscape scales for bird communities. Ecological continuity indirectly affected overall bird abundance and species richness through its effects on stand structure, but had a weaker influence (effect size near 0) on the abundance and diversity of species most closely associated with woodland habitats. This was probably because woodlands were rapidly colonized by woodland generalists in ≤10 years (minimum patch age) but were on average too young (median 50 years) to be colonized by woodland specialists. Local patch characteristics were relatively more important than landscape characteristics for bird communities. Based on our results, biodiversity responses to habitat creation depended on local‐ and landscape‐scale factors that interacted across time and space. We suggest that there is a need for further studies that focus on habitat creation in a landscape context and that knowledge gained from studies of habitat fragmentation and loss should be used to inform habitat creation with caution because the outcomes are not necessarily reciprocal.
Learning Object Names at Different Hierarchical Levels Using Cross‐Situational Statistics
Authors: Chen Chi‐hsin , Zhang Yayun , Yu Chen
Published: July 2017

Objects in the world usually have names at different hierarchical levels (e.g., beagle, dog, animal). This research investigates adults' ability to use cross‐situational statistics to simultaneously learn object labels at individual and category levels. The results revealed that adults were able to use co‐occurrence information to learn hierarchical labels in contexts where the labels for individual objects and labels for categories were presented in completely separated blocks, in interleaved blocks, or mixed in the same trial. Temporal presentation schedules significantly affected the learning of individual object labels, but not the learning of category labels. Learners' subsequent generalization of category labels indicated sensitivity to the structure of statistical input.
Intra‐ and inter‐observer reproducibility of CINtec®PLUS in ThinPrep® cytology preparations
Authors: McMenamin M. , McKenna M. , McDowell A. , Dawson C. , McKenna R.
Published: July 2017

Background

This study evaluated the intra‐ and inter‐observer reproducibility of the dual‐stain biomarker, CINtec® PLUS cytology in ThinPrep® specimens, for improved specificity in the detection of cervical disease in women testing human papillomavirus (HPV) positive.

Methods

A total of 972 cases of HPV‐positive women from a triage and primary HPV screening population were selected from an ongoing study evaluating the clinical performance of CINtec® PLUS cytology. For reproducibility analyses, three cytotechnologists rescreened sets of slides which they had previously reported themselves and which were previously reported by each of the other cytotechnologists. The original results of slides previously screened by each of the three cytotechnologists were also compared with the results of an expert reference evaluator.

Results

Intra‐ and inter‐observer agreement for paired evaluations between reviewers ranged from 82.8% to 94.9% (kappa 0.65‐0.91) and 89.2% to 93% (kappa 0.83‐0.88), respectively. Reproducibility analyses between the cytotechnologists and the reference evaluator revealed agreements ranging from 95.5% to 98% (kappa 0.89‐0.96).

Conclusion

Evaluation of the dual‐stain biomarker showed a high level of agreement across all evaluators suggesting that CINtec® PLUS cytology will perform well in the hands of cytotechnologists and pathologist reviewers and could be introduced into cellular pathology laboratories that employ ThinPrep® LBC with a minimum effort.
Diagnostic performance of routine esophagogastroduodenoscopy using magnifying endoscope with narrow‐band imaging for gastric cancer
Authors: Yoshimizu Shoichi , Yamamoto Yorimasa , Horiuchi Yusuke , Omae Masami , Yoshio Toshiyuki , Ishiyama Akiyoshi , Hirasawa Toshiaki , Tsuchida Tomohiro , Fujisaki Junko
Published: July 2017

Background and Aim

In Japan, an increase in the number of routine esophagogastroduodenoscopy procedures is expected because several studies have reported that endoscopy screening has reduced gastric cancer mortality. Magnifying narrow‐band imaging has been reported to be effective for accurate diagnosis of gastric abnormalities such as cancers, adenomas, and intestinal metaplasia. However, the efficacy of this method in routine esophagogastroduodenoscopy has not been clarified.

Methods

We divided 3763 patients into two groups. The non‐magnification group included 1842 patients who underwent endoscopy screening using GIF‐H260/LUCERA‐SPECTRUM between October 2014 and February 2015, whereas the magnification group included 1921 patients who underwent screening using GIF‐H290Z/LUCERA‐ELITE between March 2015 and May 2015. In the magnification group, diagnosis of cancer was conducted using the VS classification system. We did not carry out a biopsy when results were confirmed as non‐cancer using magnifying narrow‐band imaging. If cancer was diagnosed, or when a cancer or non‐cancer diagnosis was difficult, we carried out a biopsy. We analyzed and compared the diagnostic performance between the two groups.

Results

Gastric biopsy rate was significantly lower in the magnification group (29%) than in the non‐magnification group (41%) (P < 0.001). Positive predictive value (PPV) for gastric cancer was significantly higher in the magnification group (5.5%) than in the non‐magnification group (2.5%) (P < 0.001). Furthermore, PPV for gastric epithelial neoplasia was significantly higher in the magnification group (7.9%) than in the non‐magnification group (3.2%) (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Magnifying narrow‐band imaging improves the diagnostic performance of routine esophagogastroduodenoscopy.
Decision making in NICE single technological appraisals: How does NICE incorporate patient perspectives?
Authors: Hashem Ferhana , Calnan Michael W. , Brown Patrick R.
Published: July 2017

Context

The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) has an explicit mandate to include patient and public involvement in the appraisal of medicines to be available for funding on the NHS. NICE involves an appraisal committee who are required to take on board experiential evidence from patient experts alongside population‐based evidence on clinical and cost‐effectiveness when making a decision whether to fund a drug.

Objective

This paper considers how NICE Single Technological Appraisal (STA) committees attempt to incorporate the views of patients in making decisions about funding medicines on the NHS.

Methods

A prospective design was employed to follow three pharmaceutical products involving three different appraisal committees. Three data collection methods were used: analysis of documentary evidence sent by NICE, non‐participant unstructured observations of the open and closed sessions of meetings and qualitative interviews.

Settings and participants

Unstructured non‐participant observations were carried out at nine STA meetings, and 41 semi‐structured interviews were undertaken with committee members from NICE's STA committees, patient experts, analysts from NICE's project team and drug manufacturers.

Results

Our analysis showed how the committees displayed a preference for an ideal‐type of patient representative, disagreement among the committee when weighing‐up patient statements in the STA process and more pre‐preparation support for patient involvement.

Conclusions

Although NICE has attempted to adopt an approach flexible to patients and carers through formal decision‐making arrangements that incorporate patient views, nonetheless, the processes of the STAs can in fact undermine the very evidence collected from patient representatives.
Urodynamics of men with urinary retention
Authors: Guo David P , Comiter Craig V , Elliott Christopher S
Published: July 2017

Objectives

To describe the urodynamic characteristics of men with urinary retention, and to show the diverse treatment plans based on urodynamic findings.

Methods

We carried out a 3‐year retrospective review of men with urinary retention who were referred to our clinic for urodynamic evaluation. Men with a history of neurogenic voiding dysfunction or major pelvic surgery were excluded. Multichannel videourodynamic studies were carried out, and the subsequent treatment modality offered was recorded.

Results

A total of 67 men with urinary retention and a median age of 68 years underwent urodynamic evaluation. The median maximum flow rate was 3 mL/s, and the median detrusor pressure at maximum flow was 54 cm H2O. Bladder outlet obstruction was diagnosed in 60%. Detrusor underactivity was present in 73% according to the bladder contractility index; however, just 29% were classified as having detrusor underactivity according to isometric detrusor pressure, an alternative measure of contractility. A total of 76% of patients had low detrusor reserve (<20 cm H2O). Based on urodynamic findings, just 57% of patients were offered de‐obstructive surgery.

Conclusions

In the present cohort, just 60% of men with urinary retention showed urodynamic evidence of bladder outlet obstruction. Depending on how contractility is measured (bladder contractility index vs isometric detrusor pressure), the rate of detrusor underactivity varies. The majority of men with retention had a low detrusor reserve. Given the wide spectrum of urodynamic findings in men with retention, surgical intervention might not be necessary for all. Furthermore, a careful consideration of urodynamics can assist in the selection of optimal treatment.
Reproductive and recruitment dynamics of clionaid sponges on oyster reefs in North Carolina
Authors: Stubler Amber D. , Robertson Heather , Styron Henry J. , Carroll John M. , Finelli Christopher M.
Published: July 2017

Boring sponges belonging to the family Clionaidae have become a destructive nuisance to eastern oyster (Crassostrea virginica) aquaculture and restoration efforts in the southeastern USA. Clionaid sponges colonize the inner layers of oyster shells and remove carbonate material, compromising the quality and marketability of the oyster; however, relatively little is known about reproduction and recruitment of these sponges. Using histological techniques, reproductive activity of clionaid sponges was monitored at two sites (Cedar Island and Masonboro Sound) in coastal North Carolina. Sponge recruitment to limestone tiles (5×5 cm), oyster shells, and clam shells was monitored in 2013 and 2014; recruitment to the limestone tiles was statistically higher than recruitment to clam or oyster shells. Overall, seasonal patterns in reproduction and recruitment of clionaid sponges were generally similar at the two sites. Three species of clionaid sponge were found during field sampling (Cliona celata, C. lobata, and C. truitti), and reproductive activity (eggs and spermatocysts) of these species was observed from April to November, with peak reproduction occurring from June to September for C. lobata and from August to September for C. celata. Recruitment peaked in late summer/early fall. Additionally, the relationship between environmental conditions (temperature, salinity, dissolved oxygen, pH, and chlorophyll a) and clionaid recruitment was explored using a regression model. At Cedar Island, the best‐fit model included salinity and dissolved oxygen, while the best‐fit model at Masonboro Sound included temperature, pH, and salinity. The data from this study show that the primary reproduction and recruitment pulses occur in the fall for local clionaids, and thus mitigation strategies should be applied in the late fall or winter to minimize infestations.
Class Size at University
Authors: Huxley Gervas , Mayo Jennifer , Peacey Mike W. , Richardson Maddy
Published: July 2017

An effective higher education market should increase educational standards. For universities to fulfil this role, students need reliable information about the teaching on offer at different universities, but no such data are currently available. We define a measure of teaching that weights contact hours by their intensity and collect a new data set that allows comparison of teaching across universities and across three departments.

No two universities offer identical teaching. There is large variation in contact hours and even larger variation in teaching intensity, across both universities and departments. We combine our data with existing data to investigate the relationship that teaching has with university and student characteristics. We find that how much teaching students receive is uncorrelated with tuition fee; that teaching has little predictive power in explaining student satisfaction; and that physics students consistently receive more teaching than either economics or history students.