bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The prognostic role of coeliac node metastasis after resection for distal oesophageal cancer
Authors: Rutegård Martin , Lagergren Pernilla , Johar Asif , Rouvelas Ioannis , Lagergren Jesper
Published: March 2017

It is uncertain whether coeliac node metastasis precludes long-term survival in distal oesophageal cancer. This nationwide population-based cohort study included patients who underwent surgical resection for stage III or IV distal oesophageal cancer in 1987–2010 with follow-up until 2014. A minority (17.0%) had neoadjuvant therapy. The prognosis in patients with coeliac node metastasis was compared with patients with no such metastasis and patients with more distant metastasis. Multivariable Cox proportional-hazards regression models provided hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of disease-specific and overall mortality. Among 446 patients, 346 (77.6%) had no coeliac node metastasis, 56 (12.6%) had coeliac node metastasis, and 44 (9.9%) had more distant metastasis. Compared to coeliac node negative patients, coeliac node positive patients were at a 52% increased risk of disease-specific mortality (HR = 1.52, 95% CI 1.10–2.10), while patients with more distant metastasis had a 27% statistically non-significant increase (HR = 1.27, 95% CI 0.88–1.83). Patients with distant metastasis had no increase in disease-specific mortality compared to those with coeliac node metastasis (HR 0.71, 95% CI 0.40–1.27). Thus, patients with distal oesophageal cancer with coeliac node metastasis seem to have a similarly poor survival as patients with more distant metastasis, and thus may not benefit from surgery.
MART-10 represses cholangiocarcinoma cell growth and high vitamin D receptor expression indicates better prognosis for cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Chiang Kun-Chun , Yeh Ta-Sen , Huang Cheng-Cheng , Chang Yu-Chan , Juang Horng-Heng , Cheng Chi-Tung , Pang Jong-Hwei S. , Hsu Jun-Te , Takano Masashi , Chen Tai C. , Kittaka Atsushi , Hsiao Michael , Yeh Chun-Nan
Published: March 2017

Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is a devastating disease due to no effective treatments available. Since the non-mineral functions of vitamin D emerges, 1α,25(OH)2D3, the active form of vitamin D, has been applied in anti-cancer researches. In this study, we demonstrated that both the 1α,25(OH)2D3 analog, MART-10, and 1α,25(OH)2D3 possessed anti-growth effect on human CCA cells with MART-10 much more potent than 1α,25(OH)2D3. The growth inhibition of both drugs were mediated by induction of G0/G1 cell cycle arrest through upregulation of p27 and downregulation of CDK4, CDK6, and cyclin D3. Human neutrophil gelatinase associated lipocalin (NGAL) was found to be involved in 1α,25(OH)2D3 and MART-10 meditated growth inhibition for CCA as knockdown of NGAL decreased Ki-67 expression in SNU308 cells and rendered SNU308 cells less responsive to 1α,25(OH)2D3 and MART-10 treatment. Vitamin D receptor (VDR) knockdown partly abolished MART-10-induced inhibition of NGAL and cell growth in SNU308 cells. The xenograft animal study demonstrated MART-10 could effectively repressed CCA growth in vivo without inducing obvious side effects. The IHC examination of human CCA specimen for VDR revealed that higher VDR expression was linked with better prognosis. Collectively, our results suggest that MART-10 could be a promising regimen for CCA treatment.
Ultra-broadband Tunable Resonant Light Trapping in a Two-dimensional Randomly Microstructured Plasmonic-photonic Absorber
Authors: Liu Zhengqi , Liu Long , Lu Haiyang , Zhan Peng , Du Wei , Wan Mingjie , Wang Zhenlin
Published: March 2017

Recently, techniques involving random patterns have made it possible to control the light trapping of microstructures over broad spectral and angular ranges, which provides a powerful approach for photon management in energy efficiency technologies. Here, we demonstrate a simple method to create a wideband near-unity light absorber by introducing a dense and random pattern of metal-capped monodispersed dielectric microspheres onto an opaque metal film; the absorber works due to the excitation of multiple optical and plasmonic resonant modes. To further expand the absorption bandwidth, two different-sized metal-capped dielectric microspheres were integrated into a densely packed monolayer on a metal back-reflector. This proposed ultra-broadband plasmonic-photonic super absorber demonstrates desirable optical trapping in dielectric region and slight dispersion over a large incident angle range. Without any effort to strictly control the spatial arrangement of the resonant elements, our absorber, which is based on a simple self-assembly process, has the critical merits of high reproducibility and scalability and represents a viable strategy for efficient energy technologies.
A high-efficiency CRISPR/Cas9 system for targeted mutagenesis in Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.)
Authors: Li Chao , Unver Turgay , Zhang Baohong
Published: March 2017

The complex allotetraploid genome is one of major challenges in cotton for repressing gene expression. Developing site-specific DNA mutation is the long-term dream for cotton breeding scientists. The clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats/CRISPR-associated protein 9 (CRISPR/Cas9) system is emerging as a robust biotechnology for targeted-DNA mutation. In this study, two sgRNAs, GhMYB25-like-sgRNA1 and GhMYB25-like-sgRNA2, were designed in the identical genomic regions of GhMYB25-like A and GhMYB25-like D, which were encoded by cotton A subgenome and the D subgenome, respectively, was assembled to direct Cas9-mediated allotetraploid cotton genome editing. High proportion (14.2–21.4%) CRISPR/Cas9-induced specific truncation events, either from GhMYB25-like A DNA site or from GhMYB25-like D DNA site, were detected in 50% examined transgenic cotton through PCR amplification assay and sequencing analyses. Sequencing results also demonstrated that 100% and 98.8% mutation frequency were occurred on GhMYB25-like-sgRNA1 and GhMYB25-like-sgRNA2 target site respectively. The off-target effect was evaluated by sequencing two putative off-target sites, which have 3 and 1 mismatched nucleotides with GhMYB25-like-sgRNA1 and GhMYB25-like-sgRNA2, respectively; all the examined samples were not detected any off-target-caused mutation events. Thus, these results demonstrated that CRISPR/Cas9 is qualified for generating DNA level mutations on allotetraploid cotton genome with high-efficiency and high-specificity.
Molecular basis for the role of oncogenic histone mutations in modulating H3K36 methylation
Authors: Zhang Yinglu , Shan Chun-Min , Wang Jiyong , Bao Kehan , Tong Liang , Jia Songtao
Published: March 2017

Histone H3 lysine 36 methylation (H3K36me) is critical for epigenetic regulation and mutations at or near H3K36 are associated with distinct types of cancers. H3K36M dominantly inhibits H3K36me on wild-type histones, whereas H3G34R/V selectively affects H3K36me on the same histone tail. Here we report the crystal structures of SETD2 SET domain in complex with an H3K36M peptide and SAM or SAH. There are large conformational changes in the substrate binding regions of the SET domain, and the K36M residue interacts with the catalytic pocket of SETD2. H3G34 is surrounded by a very narrow tunnel, which excludes larger amino acid side chains. H3P38 is in the trans configuration, and the cis configuration is incompatible with SETD2 binding. Finally, mutations of H3G34 or H3P38 alleviate the inhibitory effects of H3K36M on H3K36me, demonstrating that the stable interaction of H3K36M with SETD2 is critical for its inhibitory effects.
N-doped graphene quantum dots as a novel highly-efficient matrix for the analysis of perfluoroalkyl sulfonates and other small molecules by MALDI-TOF MS
Authors: Rao Ziyu , Geng Fanglan , Zhou Yiqi , Cao Dong , Kang Yuehui
Published: March 2017

N-doped graphene quantum dots (N-GQDs) were sythesized by a facile method and applied as a MALDI matrix for small-molecule analysis.
Theoretically derived mechanisms of HPALD photolysis in isoprene oxidation
Authors: Liu Zhen , Nguyen Vinh Son , Harvey Jeremy , Müller Jean-François , Peeters Jozef
Published: March 2017

Two theoretically derived efficient mechanisms for the atmospheric photolysis of Z-HPALDs, and the subsequent chemistry of the additional first-generation OH formed.
“Clickable PEG” via anionic copolymerization of ethylene oxide and glycidyl propargyl ether
Authors: Herzberger Jana , Leibig Daniel , Langhanki Jens , Moers Christian , Opatz Till , Frey Holger
Published: March 2017

First one-step synthesis of poly(ethylene glycol) bearing multiple alkyne-groups along the polyether backbone and subsequent generation of PEG-glycopolymers by CuAAC.
Correction: Thermoresponsive-polymer-based materials for temperature-modulated bioanalysis and bioseparations
Authors: Nagase Kenichi , Okano Teruo
Published: March 2017

Correction for ‘Thermoresponsive-polymer-based materials for temperature-modulated bioanalysis and bioseparations’ by Kenichi Nagase et al., J. Mater. Chem. B, 2016, 4, 6381–6397.
Development and transmission of antimicrobial resistance among Gram-negative bacteria in animals and their public health impact
Authors: Mukerji Shewli , O’Dea Mark , Barton Mary , Kirkwood Roy , Lee Terence , Abraham Sam
Published: March 2017

Gram-negative bacteria are known to cause severe infections in both humans and animals. Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in Gram-negative bacteria is a major challenge in the treatment of clinical infections globally due to the propensity of these organisms to rapidly develop resistance against antimicrobials in use. In addition, Gram-negative bacteria possess highly efficient mechanisms through which the AMR can be disseminated between pathogenic and commensal bacteria of the same or different species. These unique traits of Gram-negative bacteria have resulted in evolution of Gram-negative bacterial strains demonstrating resistance to multiple classes of antimicrobials. The evergrowing resistance issue has not only resulted in limitation of treatment options but also led to increased treatment costs and mortality rates in humans and animals. With few or no new antimicrobials in production to combat severe life-threatening infections, AMR has been described as the one of the most severe, long-term threats to human health. Aside from overuse and misuse of antimicrobials in humans, another factor that has exacerbated the emergence of AMR in Gram-negative bacteria is the veterinary use of antimicrobials that belong to the same classes considered to be critically important for treating serious life-threatening infections in humans. Despite the fact that development of AMR dates back to before the introduction of antimicrobials, the recent surge in the resistance towards all available critically important antimicrobials has emerged as a major public health issue. This review thus focuses on discussing the development, transmission and public health impact of AMR in Gram-negative bacteria in animals.
Antibiotic tolerance and the alternative lifestyles of Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Bui Long M.G. , Conlon Brian P. , Kidd Stephen P.
Published: March 2017

Staphylococcus aureus has an incredible ability to survive, either by adapting to environmental conditions or defending against exogenous stress. Although there are certainly important genetic traits, in part this ability is provided by the breadth of modes of growth S. aureus can adopt. It has been proposed that while within their host, S. aureus survives host-generated and therapeutic antimicrobial stress via alternative lifestyles: a persister sub-population, through biofilm growth on host tissue or by growing as small colony variants (SCVs). Key to an understanding of chronic and relapsing S. aureus infections is determining the molecular basis for its switch to these quasi-dormant lifestyles. In a multicellular biofilm, the metabolically quiescent bacterial community additionally produces a highly protective extracellular polymeric substance (EPS). Furthermore, there are bacteria within a biofilm community that have an altered physiology potentially equivalent to persister cells. Recent studies have directly linked the cellular ATP production by persister cells as their key feature and the basis for their tolerance of a range of antibiotics. In clinical settings, SCVs of S. aureus have been observed for many years; when cultured, these cells form non-pigmented colonies and are approximately ten times smaller than their counterparts. Various genotypic factors have been identified in attempts to characterize S. aureus SCVs and different environmental stresses have been implicated as important inducers.
The role played by drug efflux pumps in bacterial multidrug resistance
Authors: Chitsaz Mohsen , Brown Melissa H.
Published: March 2017

Antimicrobial resistance is a current major challenge in chemotherapy and infection control. The ability of bacterial and eukaryotic cells to recognize and pump toxic compounds from within the cell to the environment before they reach their targets is one of the important mechanisms contributing to this phenomenon. Drug efflux pumps are membrane transport proteins that require energy to export substrates and can be selective for a specific drug or poly-specific that can export multiple structurally diverse drug compounds. These proteins can be classified into seven groups based on protein sequence homology, energy source and overall structure. Extensive studies on efflux proteins have resulted in a wealth of knowledge that has made possible in-depth understanding of the structures and mechanisms of action, substrate profiles, regulation and possible inhibition of many clinically important efflux pumps. This review focuses on describing known families of drug efflux pumps using examples that are well characterized structurally and/or biochemically.
Polishing the tarnished silver bullet: the quest for new antibiotics
Authors: Blaskovich Mark A.T. , Butler Mark S. , Cooper Matthew A.
Published: March 2017

We are facing a potential catastrophe of untreatable bacterial infections, driven by the inexorable rise of extensively drug-resistant bacteria, coupled with a market failure of pharmaceutical and biotech companies to deliver new therapeutic options. While global recognition of the problem is finally apparent, solutions are still a long way from being implemented. In addition to drug stewardship programmes and better diagnostics, new antibiotics are desperately needed. The question remains as to how to achieve this goal. This review will examine the different strategies being applied to discover new antibiotics.
Measuring Sound-Processor Threshold Levels for Pediatric Cochlear Implant Recipients Using Conditioned Play Audiometry via Telepractice
Authors: Goehring Jenny L. , Hughes Michelle L.
Published: March 2017

Purpose

This study evaluated the use of telepractice for measuring cochlear implant (CI) behavioral threshold (T) levels in children using conditioned play audiometry (CPA). The goals were to determine whether (a) T levels measured via telepractice were not significantly different from those obtained in person, (b) response probability differed between remote and in-person conditions, and (c) the remote visit required more time than the in-person condition.

Method

An ABBA design (A, in-person; B, remote) was split across 2 visits. Nineteen children aged 2.6–7.1 years participated. T levels were measured using CPA for 3 electrodes per session. A “hit” rate was calculated to determine whether the likelihood of obtaining responses differed between conditions. Test time was compared across conditions. A questionnaire was administered to assess parent/caregiver attitudes about telepractice.

Results

Results indicated no significant difference in T levels between conditions. Hit rates were not significantly different between in-person and remote conditions (98% vs. 97%, respectively). Test time was similar between conditions. Questionnaire results revealed that 100% of caregivers would use telepractice for CI appointments either some or all of the time.

Conclusion

Telepractice is a viable option for routine pediatric programming appointments for children using CPA to set behavioral thresholds.
Model predictive control strategy for a solar‐based series‐resonant inverter in domestic heating
Authors: Nawaz M. , Saqib M.A. , Kashif S.A.R.
Published: March 2017

The model predictive control (MPC) technique for a solar‐based series‐resonant inverter conventionally used in domestic heating is explored. The photovoltaic energy system (PVES) converts the solar energy into electrical energy where DC voltages of different cells are linked at a common bus. A Cuk‐converter is used to interface the PVES with the DC load bus and the heating inverter. These heating inverters are replacing gas cookers in restaurants, guest rooms, and domestic‐ and commercial‐kitchens for cooking of various foods. A number of control algorithms have been employed to control the power of the heating inverter but they have certain limitations; especially they do not predict the future response of the circuit. The MPC, an advanced control approach, has the potential to estimate the future behaviour of the model in a predictive manner. Hence, to control the power of the resonant inverter connected with a 3.36 kW heating load, MPC is applied. The simulation results verify the validity of the power control of a solar‐based series‐resonant inverter using the MPC algorithm.
Formal Total Synthesis of (±)-Rhazinal: Evaluating the Radical Approach
Authors: Hildebrandt Sven , Weißbarth Hendrik , Gansäuer Andreas
Published: March 2017

We describe a formal total synthesis of the racemic natural product rhazinal by a rapid elaboration of a recently reported tetrahydroindolizine intermediate into the cyclization precursor reported by Trauner. The synthesis focuses on the early and convergent introduction of functional groups while the synthetic challenges encountered by this approach are described.
Climacteric Symptoms and Sexual Dysfunction: Association between the Blatt-Kupperman Index and the Female Sexual Function Index
Authors: Cruz Emanuela Fonseca , Nina Vinícius José da Silva , Figuerêdo Eduardo Durans
Published: March 2017

Objective To investigate the association between the intensity of climacteric symptoms and sexual dysfunction in women aged 40 to 65 years.

Methods Observational, analytic, cross-sectional study conducted with 63 women aged 40 to 65 treated at the gynecology outpatient clinic of a public hospital in northeastern Brazil. A questionnaire was used to collect identification data, clinical information, gynecological-obstetric data, lifestyle traits and information on chronic diseases. Climacteric symptoms and sexual function were evaluated by means of the Blatt-Kupperman index and the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) respectively. The association between the two indices was investigated using the chi-squared test; the difference in mean scores on the FSFI as a function of menopausal status was evaluated by Student's t-test. The significance level was set to p < 0.05.

Results The mean value of the Blatt-Kupperman index was 26.42 (standard deviation [SD]: 4.52); 36.51% of the women exhibited severe symptoms. The mean score on the FSFI was 21.84 (SD: 4.11). More than half of the analyzed women (58.73%) exhibited sexual dysfunction (FSFI ≤ 26.5). Regarding the association between the Blatt-Kupperman index and the FSFI, the greater the intensity of the climacteric symptoms (Blatt-Kupperman), the higher the frequency of sexual dysfunction (FSFI). Sexual dysfunction was exhibited by 100% of the participants with severe climacteric symptoms, 70.59% of those with moderate symptoms, and only 9.09% with mild symptoms (p < 0.001).

Conclusions The application of the Blatt-Kupperman index and of the FSFI allowed the detection of an association between the severity of climacteric symptoms and the prevalence of sexual dysfunction.
Appendix-derived Pseudomyxoma Peritonei (PMP)
Authors: Gleeson Elizabeth M. , Feldman Rebecca , Mapow Beth L. , Mackovick Lynn T. , Ward Kristine M. , Morano William F. , Rubin Rene R. , Bowne Wilbur B.
Published: March 2017

Objectives:

Pseudomyxoma peritonei (PMP) is a rare malignancy originating from the appendix, characterized by disseminated mucinous tumor implants on peritoneal surfaces. We examined the role of multiplatform molecular profiling to study biomarker-guided treatment strategies for this rare malignancy.

Methods:

A total of 54 patients with appendix-derived PMP were included in the study. Tests included one or more of the following: gene sequencing (Sanger or next generation sequencing), protein expression (immunohistochemistry), and gene amplification (C/fluorescent in situ hybridization).

Results:

Targeted sequencing of 47 genes detected variants in KRAS (81%), GNAS (74%), SMAD4 (16%), and ATM (16%). Mutations were found at low frequencies (n=1 to 2) in APC, BRAF, PIK3CA, MLH1, and TP53. GNAS and KRAS co-occurrence was found in 87%. Protein overexpression was found in epidermal growth factor receptor (83%), cyclooxygenase-2 (73%), cMET (63%), cKIT (58%), and platelet-derived growth factor receptor alpha (58%). Immune checkpoint expression was found in 36% (programmed cell death protein 1) and 18% (programmed death-ligand 1). Surrogate markers of cell proliferation were found at low rates (TLE3 23%, TOP2A 22%), consistent with the slow-growing biology of PMP. Phosophatase and tensin homolog was intact (wild type [100%]) and positive (immunohistochemistry [80%]). Patients exhibited stable microsatellite status and mismatch repair proficiency (93%). Importantly, multidrug resistance protein expression was elevated (100% BCRP, 94% MRP1, 88% PGP). Markers for gemcitabine (RRM1), fluorouracil (TS), oxaliplatin (ERCC1), and irinotecan (TOPO1) chemosensitivities were detected at favorable rates: 93%, 87%, 77% and 65%, respectively.

Conclusions:

Molecular profiling by multiple platforms identified potential therapies for the nontargetable KRAS-mutated population. The role of cMET-targeted therapeutics and immune checkpoint inhibitors merits further investigation. Biomarker-guided selection of cytotoxic chemotherapies may facilitate efficacy to systemic treatment.
CLINICAL EVIDENCE OF THE MULTIFACTORIAL NATURE OF DIABETIC MACULAR EDEMA
Authors: Chakravarthy Usha , Yang Yit , Lotery Andrew , Ghanchi Faruque , Bailey Clare , Holz Frank G. , Downey Louise , Weber Michel , Eter Nicole , Dugel Pravin U.
Published: March 2017

Purpose:

To report functional and morphologic outcomes, based on diabetic macular edema (DME) chronicity and baseline best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), from a subanalysis of the fluocinolone acetonide for macular edema (FAME) trials.

Methods:

Patients were categorized by DME duration (nonchronic [ncDME] or chronic [cDME] DME) and three nonexclusive baseline vision strata. Anatomic and visual acuity VA outcomes of these cohorts were compared with treatment assignment.

Results:

For all patients with ncDME and cDME who received sham control, 27.8% and 13.4%, respectively, gained ≥15 BCVA letters, whereas 22.3% and 34.0% of 0.2 μg/day fluocinolone acetonide (FAc)-treated patients, respectively, gained ≥15 BCVA letters. Among patients with ncDME who received sham control, as baseline vision decreased, the percentage gaining ≥15 BCVA letters increased; however, among those with cDME, the percentage gaining ≥15 BCVA letters did not change as baseline vision decreased. Conversely, among 0.2 μg/day FAc-treated patients, the percentage gaining ≥15 BCVA letters increased with decreasing baseline vision, regardless of DME chronicity. Anatomical outcomes were similar within treatment arms, regardless of the DME duration.

Conclusion:

Patients with cDME and poor baseline vision who were exposed to low-dose FAc experienced BCVA improvements that were not observed in a similar group from the sham-control arm. These data support the multifactorial pathogenesis of cDME.
Addressing the Health and Wellness Needs of Vulnerable Rockaway Residents in the Wake of Hurricane Sandy: Findings From a Health Coaching and Community Health Worker Program
Authors: Russell David , Oberlink Mia R. , Shah Shivani , Evans Lauren , Bassuk Karen
Published: March 2017

Objectives:

To describe the design and participants of a program that employed health coaches and community health workers to address the social, health, and long-term disaster recovery needs of Rockaway residents roughly 2 years after Hurricane Sandy made landfall.

Design:

Baseline and exit questionnaires, containing demographic, health, and health care utilization measures, were administered to participants at the start and end of the program. Enrollment and encounter information was captured in program administrative records. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize participant characteristics, personal goals, referrals to local organizations and agencies, and outcomes. Qualitative analyses were used to identify recurring themes in challenges faced by participants and barriers to health and wellness.

Results:

The program served 732 community residents, of whom 455 (62%) completed baseline and exit questionnaires. Participants were directly and/or indirectly impacted by Hurricane Sandy through property damage, closures of health care facilities, limited employment opportunities, and trouble securing affordable housing. Furthermore, many participants faced considerable adversities and struggled to manage chronic health conditions. Personal goals set by participants included locating health care and other resources (44%), weight management and healthy eating (35%), and self-management of chronic conditions (24%). Health coaches and community health workers engaged participants an average of 4 times—providing counseling and referrals to local organizations and services, including medical and dental services (29%), city-issued identification cards (27%), and health insurance and other entitlements (23%). Comparisons of baseline and exit surveys indicated significant improvements in self-reported health, health care utilization, and confidence managing health issues. No significant improvement was observed in the use of preventive health care services.

Conclusions:

The program represents a model for engaging vulnerable populations and addressing social and economic barriers to health and wellness during the long-term disaster recovery phase. Health coaches and community health workers may be instrumental in helping to address the health and wellness needs of vulnerable residents living in disaster-affected areas.
A Case Study of the Philadelphia Sugar-Sweetened Beverage Tax Policymaking Process: Implications for Policy Development and Advocacy
Authors: Purtle Jonathan , Langellier Brent , Lê-Scherban Félice
Published: March 2017

Context:

Policymakers are increasingly proposing sugar-sweetened beverage (SSB) taxes as an evidence-based strategy to reduce chronic disease risk; and local health departments (LHDs) are well-positioned to play a role in SSB policy development and advocacy. However, most SSB tax proposals fail to become law and limited empiric guidance exists to inform advocacy efforts. In June 2016, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, passed an SSB tax.

Objective:

To identify features of the Philadelphia SSB tax policymaking process that contributed to the proposal's passage.

Design:

Qualitative case study. Semistructured interviews were conducted with key informants closely involved with the policymaking process. Interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed. Local news media about the SSB tax proposal were analyzed to triangulate interview findings. Analysis was conducted in NVivo 10 using inductive qualitative content analysis.

Setting:

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, during the SSB tax policymaking in process.

Participants:

Nine key informants (2 city councilpersons, 4 city agency officials, 1 community-based advocate, 1 news reporter, and 1 researcher).

Results:

The Philadelphia SSB tax proposal was introduced with the explicit goal of financing universal prekindergarten and deliberately not framed as a health intervention. This framing shifted contentious debates about government involvement in individual behavior toward discussions about how to finance universal prekindergarten, a goal for which broad support existed. The LHD played an important role in communicating research evidence about potential health benefits of the SSB tax proposal at the end of the policymaking process.

Conclusions:

During local SSB tax policy development processes, LHD officials and other advocates should encourage policymakers to design SSB tax policies so that revenue is directed toward community investments for which broad public support exists. When communicating with policymakers and the public, LHDs should consider emphasizing how SSB tax revenue will be used in addition to presenting evidence about the potential health benefits of the SSB tax at the local level.
“Keep an eye on me, doc!”: outpatient voluntary supervised disulfiram for treatment of alcohol use disorders in a community setting
Authors: Yang Abigail , Leung Stefanie , Demirkol Apo
Published: March 2017

Purpose

Across the world, 3.3 million people die every year as a result of harmful use of alcohol. In Australia, excessive alcohol intake is responsible for 3.2 percent of the total burden of disease and injury. Disulfiram is one of the few pharmacotherapies approved for the treatment of alcohol dependence, and interferes with the metabolism of alcohol causing unpleasant symptoms as a deterrent effect. To date, no studies have examined the efficacy of disulfiram in an outpatient setting in Australia. The purpose of this paper is to describe the medium term outcomes of patients commencing disulfiram in a specialized drug and alcohol outpatient setting in Australia.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were extracted from outpatient clinical notes for all patients commenced on disulfiram at any location in the drug and alcohol service between January 1, and December 31, 2013.

Findings

In total, 80 patients were included in the study. At three months following commencement of treatment, 42 patients (53 percent) were considered to have been successfully retained in treatment. Totally, 36 (45 percent) patients reported remaining completely abstinent from alcohol during their first three months of treatment. Patients that self-referred to outpatient disulfiram treatment had 75 percent lesser odds of succeeding in treatment compared to those that were referred by other means (i.e. via hospital, GP or forensic services).

Originality/value

This study demonstrates that patients receiving supervised disulfiram for three months in the context of this treatment model can achieve abstinence. Further work is needed to compare this with other treatment options.
Understanding the working relationships between National Health Service clinicians and finance staff
Authors: Minogue Virginia , McCaffry Rebecca
Published: March 2017

Purpose

The Department of Health and the National Health Service (NHS) Future Focused Finance (FFF) programme promotes effective engagement between clinical and finance staff. Surveys undertaken by the Department of Health between 2013 and 2015 found few NHS Trusts reported high levels of engagement. The purpose of this paper is to gain a better understanding of current working relationships between NHS clinical and finance professionals and how they might be supported to become more effective.

Design/methodology/approach

Ipsos MORI were commissioned by the NHS FFF programme to undertake an online survey of NHS clinical and finance staff between June and August 2015.

Findings

The majority of clinicians had a member of a finance team linked to their speciality or directorate. Clinical and finance professionals have a positive view of joint working preferring face-to-face contact. Clinician’s confidence in their understanding of finance was generally good and finance staff felt they had a good understanding of clinical issues. Effective working relationships were facilitated by face-to-face contact, a professional relationship, and the availability of clear, well presented finance and activity data.

Research limitations/implications

Data protection issues limited the accessibility of the survey team to NHS staff resulting in a relatively low-response rate. Other forms of communication, including social media, were utilised to increase access to the survey.

Originality/value

The FFF programme is a unique programme aimed at making the NHS finance profession fit for the future. The close partnering work stream brings together the finance and clinical perspective to share knowledge, evidence, training, and to develop good practice and engagement.
Barriers to discharge from inpatient rehabilitation: a teamwork approach
Authors: Cruz Lisanne Catherine , Fine Jeffrey S. , Nori Subhadra
Published: March 2017

Purpose

In order to prevent adverse events during the discharge process, coordinating appropriate community resources, medication reconciliation, and patient education needs to be implemented before the patient leaves the hospital. This coordination requires communication and effective teamwork amongst staff members. In order to address these concerns, the purpose of this paper is to incorporate the TeamSTEPPS principles to develop a discharge plan that would best meet the needs of the patients as they return to the community.

Design/methodology/approach

Through a gap analysis, barriers to discharge were identified from the following disciplines: nursing, social work, physical and occupational therapy, psychology, and rehabilitation physician. To improve communication, weekly meetings and twice-weekly huddles were implemented so that concerns regarding discharge obstacles could be identified and resolved. Visibility of discharge dates were improved by use of graduation certificates in patient rooms and green ribbons on patient wheelchairs.

Findings

After implementation of this discharge intervention, length of stay was reduced providing cost savings to the hospital, patient satisfaction on HCAHP surveys improved and demonstrated patient satisfaction with the discharge process, and readmission rates improved.

Originality/value

This study demonstrated that effective teamwork and communication can improve patient safety and satisfaction during the discharge period.
Law and Finance in Emerging Economies: Germany and Britain 1800–1913
Authors: Gerner‐Beuerle Carsten
Published: March 2017

By most standards, Britain in the 19th century was the world's leading financial nation, with more developed capital markets than any other country. An influential view in the law and finance literature argues that, holding macroeconomic factors constant, the different financial development can be attributed to more stringent disclosure regulation in Britain. Presenting a granular analysis of regulatory reform in Britain and Germany, this article shows that the level of disclosure regulation was largely comparable in both countries during the relevant period and that reform initiatives were not an exogenous stimulus of financial development, but evolved incrementally in response to changing market conditions. On the other hand, the legal regime governing the formation of stock corporations developed in diametrically opposed directions in the two countries as a result of concerted efforts by policy makers to change market conditions. The article argues that these rules, which were relevant to organisational choice and the availability of different sources of financing, stand out as the most striking difference between Germany and the UK.
The Reduction in ED and Hospital Admissions in Medical Home Practices Is Specific to Primary Care–Sensitive Chronic Conditions
Authors: Green Lee A. , Chang Hsiu‐Ching , Markovitz Amanda R. , Paustian Michael L.
Published: March 2017

Objective

To determine whether the Patient‐Centered Medical Home (PCMH) transformation reduces hospital and ED utilization, and whether the effect is specific to chronic conditions targeted for management by the PCMH in our setting.

Data Sources and Study Setting

All patients aged 18 years and older in 2,218 primary care practices participating in a statewide PCMH incentive program sponsored by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan (BCBSM) in 2009–2012.

Study Design

Quantitative observational study, jointly modeling PCMH‐targeted versus other hospital admissions and ED visits on PCMH score, patient, and practice characteristics in a hierarchical multivariate model using the generalized gamma distribution.

Data Collection

Claims data and PCMH scores held by BCBSM.

Principal Findings

Both hospital and ED utilization were reduced proportionately to PCMH score. Hospital utilization was reduced by 13.9 percent for PCMH‐targeted conditions versus only 3.8 percent for other conditions (p = .003), and ED utilization by 11.2 percent versus 3.7 percent (p = .010). Hospital PMPM cost was reduced by 17.2 percent for PCMH‐targeted conditions versus only 3.1 percent for other conditions (p < .001), and ED PMPM cost by 9.4 percent versus 3.6 percent (p < .001).

Conclusions

PCMH transformation reduces hospital and ED use, and the majority of the effect is specific to PCMH‐targeted conditions.
A randomised double‐blind trial of phenylephrine and metaraminol infusions for prevention of hypotension during spinal and combined spinal–epidural anaesthesia for elective caesarean section
Authors: McDonnell N. J. , Paech M. J. , Muchatuta N. A. , Hillyard S. , Nathan E. A.
Published: March 2017

Prophylactic vasopressor administration is commonly recommended to reduce maternal hypotension during spinal anaesthesia for caesarean section. Metaraminol has undergone limited investigation in obstetric anaesthesia for this purpose, particularly in comparison with phenylephrine. In this multicentre, randomised, double‐blind, non‐inferiority study, we compared prophylactic phenylephrine or metaraminol infusions, started immediately after spinal anaesthesia, in 185 women who underwent elective caesarean section. Phenylephrine was initially infused at 50 μg.min−1, and metaraminol at 250 μg.min−1. The primary outcome was the difference in umbilical arterial pH between groups; secondary outcomes included other neonatal acid‐base measures, and maternal haemodynamic changes. The mean (SD) umbilical arterial pH was 7.28 (0.06) in the phenylephrine group vs. 7.31 (0.04) in the metaraminol group (p = 0.0002). The estimated mean (95%CI) pH difference of 0.03 (0.01–0.04) was above the pre‐determined lower boundary of clinical non‐inferiority, and also met the criterion for superiority. Umbilical artery lactate concentration was 2.8 (1.2) mmol.l−1 in the phenylephrine group vs. 2.3 (0.7) mmol.l−1 in the metaraminol group (p = 0.0018). Apgar scores did not significantly differ between groups. There was a higher incidence of hypotension, defined as systolic arterial pressure < 90% baseline, in the phenylephrine group; there was a higher incidence of hypertension and severe hypertension (systolic arterial pressure > 110% and > 120% baseline, respectively) in the metaraminol group. There was no significant difference between groups in the incidence of nausea, vomiting or maternal bradycardia. We conclude that, when used as an infusion to prevent hypotension after spinal anaesthesia for elective caesarean section, metaraminol is at least non‐inferior to phenylephrine with respect to neonatal acid‐base outcomes.
Haemodynamic Influences of Bisoprolol in Hypertensive Middle‐Aged Men: A Double‐Blind, Randomized, Placebo‐Controlled Cross‐Over Study
Authors: Suojanen Lauri , Haring Antti , Tikkakoski Antti , Koskela Jenni K. , Tahvanainen Anna M. , Huhtala Heini , Kähönen Mika , Sipilä Kalle , Eräranta Arttu , Mustonen Jukka T. , Kivistö Kari , Pörsti Ilkka H.
Published: March 2017

Treatment with beta‐blockers appears to show inferior reduction in central versus peripheral blood pressure. We aimed to examine simultaneous changes in central and peripheral blood pressure, vascular resistance, cardiac function and arterial stiffness during beta‐blockade. Haemodynamics were investigated after 3 weeks of bisoprolol treatment (5 mg/day) in a double‐blind, randomized, placebo‐controlled cross‐over trial in never‐treated 16 Caucasian males with grade I–II primary hypertension using continuous tonometric pulse wave analysis and whole‐body impedance cardiography. Bisoprolol decreased radial (134/80 versus 144/89 mmHg) and aortic blood pressure (122/80 versus 130/90 mmHg) and heart rate (57 versus 68 beats/min) when compared with placebo (p < 0.05 for all). Ejection duration (336 versus 316 ms) and stroke volume (109 versus 98 ml) were increased (p < 0.01 for all), while cardiac output was not significantly changed (6.2 versus 6.6 l/min). Bisoprolol decreased pulse wave velocity (7.8 versus 8.9 m/s, p < 0.001), but after adjustment for blood pressure, the decrease was not significant (8.16 versus 8.52 m/s, p = 0.464). The treatment reduced pulse pressure amplification from central to peripheral circulation (30 versus 38%, p = 0.002). No differences were observed in systemic vascular resistance, augmentation index, aortic characteristic impedance or total arterial stiffness after bisoprolol versus placebo. Bisoprolol decreased central and peripheral blood pressure and pulse wave velocity in male individuals with grade I to grade II hypertension. The decrease in pulse wave velocity was related to the antihypertensive effect. Reduced pulse pressure amplification indicates that peripheral blood pressure was reduced more efficiently than central blood pressure.
Modeling and Analyzing Respondent-Driven Sampling as a Counting Process
Authors: Berchenko Yakir , Rosenblatt Jonathan D. , Frost Simon D. W.
Published: March 2017

Respondent-driven sampling (RDS) is an approach to sampling design and analysis which utilizes the networks of social relationships that connect members of the target population, using chain-referral. RDS sampling will typically oversample participants with many acquaintances. Naïve estimators, such as the sample average, will thus be biased towards the state of the most highly connected individuals. Current methodology cannot estimate population size from RDS, and promotes inverse probability weighted estimators for population parameters such as HIV prevalence. We propose to use the timing of recruitment, typically collected and discarded, in order to estimate the population size via a counting process model. Once population size and degree frequencies are made available, prevalence can be debiased in a post-stratified framework. We adapt methods developed for inference in epidemiology and software reliability to estimate the population size, degree counts and frequencies. A fundamental advantage of our approach is that it makes the assumptions of the sampling design explicit. This enables verification of the assumptions, maximum likelihood estimation, extension with covariates, and model selection. We develop large-sample theory, proving consistency and asymptotic normality. We further compare our estimators to other estimators in the RDS literature, through simulation and real-world data. In both cases, we find our estimators to outperform current methods. The likelihood problem in the model we present is separable, and thus efficiently solvable. We implement these estimators in an accompanying R package, chords, available on CRAN.
Accounting for Cross‐Country Differences in Employee Involvement Practices: Comparative Case Studies in Germany, Brazil and China
Authors: Krzywdzinski Martin
Published: March 2017

Employee involvement is a contested concept in organizations. While the mainstream of the research debate has focused on measuring the strength of employee involvement (EI), this article emphasizes the existence of very different forms of EI. It draws on case studies of the German, Brazilian and Chinese plants of a German automobile manufacturer to analyse forms of EI and to investigate their societal determinants. The article reveals considerable differences in the design of employee involvement between the self‐organization model and the competition/social involvement model. It shows how industrial relations and cultural factors lead to these very different approaches.
Curcuminoid EF24 enhances the anti‐tumour activity of Akt inhibitor MK‐2206 through ROS‐mediated endoplasmic reticulum stress and mitochondrial dysfunction in gastric cancer
Authors: Chen Xi , Dai Xuanxuan , Zou Peng , Chen Weiqian , Rajamanickam Vinothkumar , Feng Chen , Zhuge Weishan , Qiu Chenyu , Ye Qingqing , Zhang Xiaohua , Liang Guang
Published: March 2017

Background and Purpose

Gastric cancer is one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Akt is an anti‐apoptotic kinase that plays a dynamic role in cell survival and is implicated in the pathogenesis of gastric cancer. MK‐2206, the first allosteric inhibitor of Akt, is in clinical trials for a number of cancers. Although preclinical studies showed promise, clinical trials reported it had no effect when given alone at tolerated doses. The aim of our study was to delineate the effects of MK‐2206 on gastric cancer cells and explore the ability of combination treatments to enhance the anti‐tumour activity of MK‐2206.

Experimental Approach

SGC‐7901, BGC‐823 cells and immunodeficient mice were chosen as a model to study the treatment effects. Changes in cell viability, apoptosis and ROS, endoplasmic reticulum stress and mitochondrial dysfunction in the cells were analysed by MTT assays, ROS imaging and FACSCalibur, electron microscopy, JC‐1 staining and western blotting.

Key Results

MK‐2206 induced apoptotic cell death through the generation of ROS. We utilized ROS production to target gastric cancer cells by combining MK‐2206 and an ROS inducer EF24. Our in vitro and in vivo xenograft studies showed that combined treatment with MK‐2206 and EF24 synergistically induced apoptosis in gastric cancer cells and caused cell cycle arrest. These activities were mediated through ROS generation and the induction of endoplasmic reticulum stress and mitochondrial dysfunction.

Conclusion and Implications

Targeting ROS generation by using a combination of an Akt inhibitor and EF24 could have potential as a therapy for gastric cancer.
DYNC2H1 mutation causes Jeune syndrome and recurrent lung infections associated with ciliopathy
Authors: Emiralioglu Nagehan , Wallmeier Julia , Olbrich Heike , Omran Heymut , Ozcelik Ugur
Published: March 2017

Asphyxiating thoracic dystrophy, also known as Jeune syndrome, is included in a group of syndromic skeletal ciliopathies associated with mutations in genes encoding proteins involved in the formation or function of motile cilia. Herein, we report a 6‐mo‐old male admitted to hospital with recurrent lung infections, thoracic dystrophy, and respiratory distress that was diagnosed as Jeune syndrome; DYNC2H1 mutation was detected via genetic analysis and ciliary dysfunction was noted via high‐speed video microscopy.