bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Autism and virtual reality head-mounted displays: a state of the art systematic review
Authors: Bradley Ryan , Newbutt Nigel
Published: July 2018

Purpose

The use of virtual reality (VR) technologies in the education of autistic children has been a focus of research for over two decades. It is argued that this form of technology can provide authentic “real world” contexts that target social and life skills training in safe, controllable and repeatable virtual environments. The development of affordable VR head-mounted displays (HMD), such as Google cardboard and Oculus Rift, has seen a renewed interest in their use for a wide range of applications, including the education of autistic individuals. The paper aims to discuss these issues.

Design/methodology/approach

A systematic search of electronic databases focussing on empirical studies on the use of VR-HMD for children and adults on the autism spectrum was undertaken.

Findings

A review of the literature identified a limited number of studies in this field characterised by differences in the type of application, technology used and participant characteristics.

Research limitations/implications

Whilst there are some grounds for optimism, more research is needed on the use of this technology within educational settings to ensure robust recommendations can be made on the implementation, use and sustainability of this approach.

Originality/value

This paper is the first to consider the evidence base for the use of VR-HMD technology to support the needs of the autistic population.
Humanitarian logistics research for the care of refugees and internally displaced persons
Authors: Oloruntoba Richard , Banomyong Ruth
Published: July 2018

Purpose

This “thought paper” is written by the special issue editors as a part of the five papers accepted and published in response to the special issue call for papers on logistics and SCM in the context of relief for refugees and internally displaced persons (IDPs) in theJournal of Humanitarian Logistics and Supply Chain Management. The purpose of this paper is to introduce the special issue on “refugee logistics” and analyse the nature and challenges of displacement from a displaced person’s perspective. The paper also argues for a more critical appreciation of the role and value that research in logistics, operations and supply chain management (LOSCM) can play in the delivery of services and care for refugees and IDPs from the perspective of preparedness and logistics planning of humanitarian organisations. The paper further outlines basic challenges to undertaking innovative, boundary pushing valuable and impactful research on “refugee logistics” given the difficult ideological, political and policy context in which “refugee logistics research” will be undertaken. The paper also advocates for more critical research in humanitarian logistics (HL), that explicitly acknowledges its ontological, epistemological and methodological limitations even when ethically sound. The paper concludes by suggesting a future research agenda for this new sub-field of humanitarian logistics research.

Design/methodology/approach

Conceptual paper utilising viewpoints, literature reviews as well as original ideas and thoughts of the authors.

Findings

The new field of “refugee logistics research” is important. It has been neglected in humanitarian logistics research for too long. Hence, there needs to be more research in this sub-field of humanitarian logistics.

Research limitations/implications

This is a “thought paper”. It is the basic conceptual ideas of the authors. While it is not based on empirical work or data collection, it is based on a comprehensive literature research and analysis.

Social implications

This paper advocates for the universal human rights of IDPs and refugees and their dignity, and how LOSCM can contribute to upholding such dignity.

Originality/value

It contributes indirectly to logistics policy and refugee policy as well as logistics service quality and advocacy for human rights and human dignity.
The influence of quality on satisfaction and customer loyalty with an importance-performance map analysis
Authors: Carranza Rocío , Díaz Estrella , Martín-Consuegra David
Published: July 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to verify the existence of loyalty among fast-food customers and its dependence on fast-food service quality, comprising service quality, food quality and store atmosphere. This study also examines the direct and mediating role of constructs such as satisfaction and trust in creating loyalty in fast-food restaurants (FFRs).

Design/methodology/approach

A sample of 456 fast-food customers was collected using a structured questionnaire. This paper uses partial least squares path modeling to test and validate the study’s research model and hypotheses.

Findings

The results suggest that fast-food service quality has a positive influence on satisfaction, trust and loyalty among fast-food customers. The findings also reveal a mediating effect of trust (partial mediation), increasing the effect of satisfaction on loyalty.

Practical implications

This study reinforces the importance of considering the attributes that influence customer loyalty. Specifically, food quality is considered key to increasing loyalty among FFR customers.

Originality/value

This study proposes an integrated model influenced by three factors that contribute to fast-food service quality (i.e. food quality, service quality, atmosphere) along with classical variables used in the marketing literature (i.e. satisfaction, trust) in the creation of FFR loyalty. This study also follows modern procedures in PLS-SEM by challenging conventional methods.
Challenges and opportunities for services marketers in a culturally diverse global marketplace
Authors: Sharma Piyush , Tam Jackie , Wu Zhan
Published: July 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this special issue is to extend the growing research on the challenges and opportunities facing services marketers in an increasingly culturally diverse global marketplace.

Design/methodology/approach

The nine papers included in this special issue use a variety of research methods (e.g. case study, experiments and surveys), participants (e.g. customers, employees and online panel members) and service settings (e.g. fast food, post office, weight loss, bank, home loan, personal fitness and offshore outsourcing).

Findings

All the nine papers highlight the importance of studying the unique perspectives of the customers and employees involved in intercultural interactions in diverse service settings in marketplaces and societies that are either already or have recently become multicultural.

Research limitations/implications

The findings from the nine papers have useful implications for future research on services marketing in multicultural markets, although these may not always be generalisable beyond the unique context of the studies reported in each of these papers.

Practical implications

All the nine papers also present some useful directions for services marketing managers in the multicultural markets, to help them understand and manage the expectations of their culturally diverse customers, as well as employees.

Originality/value

This special issue is unique because it is one of the first attempts to understand the unique challenges and opportunities for services marketers in the growing multicultural global marketplace, from a theoretical, as well as empirical, point of view.
Integrated simulation for national development planning
Authors: Pedercini Matteo , Kleemann Holger Maximilian , Dlamini Nombuso , Dlamini Vangile , Kopainsky Birgit
Published: July 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this papers is to highlight the applicability of integrated simulation models for national development planning to different issues and contexts. Specifically, the authors describe one such model, the Millennium Institute’s T21 model, which is used to support planning in various countries, and explore in detail the case of Swaziland to demonstrate the model’s usefulness at different levels in the planning process.

Design/methodology/approach

Integrated sustainable development planning models using the system dynamics (SD) modeling method have been designed to help overcome these obstacles and support decision-makers in the assessment of alternative policies. Such models are laboratory replicas of the critical mechanisms driving development in a country while being grounded in the historical data available. They can be used to perform simulation-based policy experiments that are otherwise impossible in the real world.

Findings

The proposed approach has facilitated the reporting on the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), as well as on the cross-sector long-term ex ante evaluation of the country’s “Economic Recovery Strategy” and a proposed “Fiscal Adjustment” policy. These assessments provided essential information for improving the quality of the decisions made. Such information cannot be obtained by the application of purely economic models or sectoral tools, that are not including the fundamental feedback structures that shape development in the long run and determine its sustainability.

Research limitations/implications

The new generation of global long-term Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) covers a far broader range of issues and indicators than the MDGs. The T21-Swaziland model only offers a limited subset of such issues, and future research will focus on achievements and challenges in expanding its scope to encompass the SDGs.

Practical implications

The T21 model has become one of the fundamental planning instruments of the country, and it has been used to evaluate national planning documents and other suggested strategies with respect to whether they are sufficient for reaching the long-term goals. Such information is then used as a basis for revision of development plans and adoption or rejection of suggested policy packages.

Originality/value

The MDGs (and their expanded follow-up, the SDGs) have been important step toward better governance, as they quantify key indicators of development and thereby allow for an evaluation of the degree to which these quantified aspirations are actually achieved. In addition to such hind-sight evaluations, ex ante evaluations are equally important for improvement of the quality of the decisions made. The authors propose and test a tool to support such type of evaluation, supporting integrated planning and model-based governance.
Creating a healthy working environment for older employees as part of social responsibility
Authors: Rožman Maja , Treven Sonja , Mulej Matjaž , Čančer Vesna
Published: July 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present the importance of a healthy working environment and approaches to establish a healthy working environment of older employees and their impact on work engagement of older employees. The working environment that is not suitable and adapted for older employees presents a big challenge for Slovenian and other companies in which the work force is getting older. Hence, this paper develops a model of a healthy working environment for older employees, in which they could feel well because of its positive affect on their health.

Design/methodology/approach

The research method in this paper was the descriptive-correlative type. After a systematic review of literature, which relates to this topic, the authors used the compilation method. In addition to descriptive statistics, factor analysis and regression analysis were used in this paper.

Findings

Considering the demographic changes and active ageing in the workplace, age diversity of employees has to become a part of the general strategy of a company to ensure equality and diversity. Adequate working conditions, which should exist in every company, contribute to the improvement of healthy working environment for older employees and their work-engagement. This paper presents that approaches to establish a healthy working environment of older employees have a positive impact on work-engagement of older employees.

Practical implications

The stated findings will help companies to better understand and manage their older employees and the importance of establishing a healthy working environment for older employees with which the work-engagement of older employees can be improved. Socially responsible behavior benefits all in this way, too.

Originality/value

This paper is based on forming a research model for creating a healthy working environment for older employees as a part of social responsibility. The main objective of this paper is to examine the impact of establishment of a healthy working environment for older employees on the work engagement of older employees in Slovenia.
Effects of neuromuscular presynaptic muscarinic M1 receptor blockade on rocuronium‐induced neuromuscular blockade in immobilized tibialis anterior muscles
Authors: Kim Yong Beom , Yang Hong‐Seuk , Kim Ha Jung , Choi Hey‐Ran , In Junyong , Yoon Soon‐Young , Ro Young Jin
Published: July 2018

This in vivo study tested the hypothesis that the modulation of acetylcholine (ACh) release by the M1 muscarinic receptor (mAChR) in the neuromuscular junction of disused muscles may affect the tensions of the muscles during the neuromuscular monitoring of a rocuronium‐induced neuromuscular block and compared the results with those obtained from normal muscles. A total of 20 C57BL/6 (wild‐type) and 10 α7 knock out (α7KO) mice were used in this experiment. As a pre‐experimental procedure, knee and ankle joints of right hind limbs were fixed by needle pinning at the 90° flexed position. After 2 weeks, the main experiment was performed. Both tendons of the tibialis anterior (TA) muscles were obtained, and the muscle tensions were recorded while the dose‐responses of rocuronium were measured three times in the same mouse by the serial administration of pirenzepine (0, 0.001 and 0.01 μg/g). Weight losses were observed after 2 weeks of immobilization in both groups, and a decrease in the mass of TA muscles at the immobilized side was observed compared to those of the contralateral nonimmobilized side. Tension depression of the TA muscles at immobilized side of the α7KO group was faster than those of the wild‐type group, but these differences decreased after the administration of pirenzepine. The tension depressions were similar regardless of the pirenzepine doses at the same side in the group. Tension depression may become more rapid in the α7 AChR‐expressed disused muscles by the decreased release of ACh release upon neuronal firing by the blockade of facilitatory M1 mAChR
Flexible pollination system in an unpalatable shrub Daphne miyabeana (Thymelaeaceae)
Authors: Sakata Yuzu , Nakahama Naoyuki
Published: July 2018

The stability of plant reproductive success is dependent on the reproductive system of the plant and the surrounding pollinator assemblages. Here we documented the pollination ecology of a shrub, Daphne miyabeana (Thymelaeaceae), that is unpalatable to deer in two different habitats (open and closed canopy) at a site with severe deer browsing. We found that 31.22 ± 3.07% (mean ± SE) and 9.01 ± 1.71% of the total number of D. miyabeana flowers become fruits in open and closed habitats, respectively. Although spontaneous selfing was possible, the fruit set of that was much lower than the fruit set of an artificial outcrossing treatment. In the closed habitat, the fruit set of the natural pollination was lower than that of artificial outcrossing, whereas in the open habitat the fruit set of those two were similar. In the open habitat, small bees were the major flower visitors, whereas in the closed habitat, ants were the major flower visitors, which did not contribute to pollination. Our findings suggest that D. miyabeana is pollinated by occasional visits of small bees, but it is also self‐compatible and spontaneous selfing is possible. Although its pollination is shaped by abiotic environmental factors, D. miyabeana can reproduce in different habitat conditions. These flexible reproductive systems may be an advantage in coping with the recent environmental change in forest habitats.
The influence of bioregenerative life‐support system dietary structure and lifestyle on the gut microbiota: a 105‐day ground‐based space simulation in Lunar Palace 1
Authors: Hao Zikai , Li Leyuan , Fu Yuming , Liu Hong
Published: July 2018

Understanding the dynamics of human gut microbiota in space is crucial in maintaining astronaut health. Long‐duration and deep‐space manned exploration will require the in situ regeneration of resources, which would be achieved by an artificial ecosystem, such as a bioregenerative life‐support system (BLSS). Potential response of human gut microbiota to particular lifestyle and dietary structure experienced in a BLSS remains unclear. Here, we report how a BLSS impacts the gut microbiota during a 105‐day study that took place in the Chinese Lunar Palace 1 (LP1). The three crewmembers were provided with high‐plant and high‐fibre diet, and they followed a fixed schedule including extensive labour in the plant cabin. The gut microbiota composition of the three crewmembers showed convergence and similar dynamic change. Increased diversity and abundance of Lachnospira, Faecalibacterium and Blautia indicated that the LP1 dietary structure and the lifestyle may be beneficial for the maintenance of healthy gut microbiome. A stronger impact was found from the gut microbiome to the environment compared with the opposite direction, suggesting the necessity of environmental pathogen control in BLSS.
Bacterial communities of decaying Norway spruce follow distinct slope exposure and time‐dependent trajectories
Authors: Probst Maraike , Gómez‐Brandón María , Bardelli Tommaso , Egli Markus , Insam Heribert , Ascher‐Jenull Judith
Published: July 2018

Deadwood decay employs a complex metabolism and provides carbon and nutrients for soils. Although being highly diverse, the contribution of the bacterial deadwood colonizing community is underexplored compared with the fungal one. Therefore, we performed an in‐field mesocosm study and monitored the bacterial communities in decaying experimental Picea abies wood blocks and their underlying soil on north‐ and south‐ exposed slopes in the Italian Alps over a 2‐year period. The faster deadwood decay at the south‐facing slope was associated with a higher bacterial richness and a higher number of specialist operational taxonomic units (OTUs) which were more strongly correlated to environmental parameters than other bacterial community members. With progressing decay, the wood and soil bacterial communities became more similar in terms of richness, diversity and evenness and especially at the south‐facing slope, they also became more similar in terms of community composition. Exposure‐specific OTUs suggest wood‐soil interaction. However, despite the strong influence of exposure on the soil bacterial communities, the P. abies wood blocks shared a comparably high number of OTUs with the soil irrespective of the slope. At finer taxonomic scale, we identified Pseudomonas, Microbacteria, Sphingomonas, Xanthomonas, Methylovirgula and Burkholderia as decay associated, although their functional role needs further studies.
The PEth Blood Test in the Security Environment: What it is; Why it is Important; and Interpretative Guidelines
Authors: Ulwelling William , Smith Kim
Published: July 2018

Testing for phosphatidylethanol (PEth) is a relatively new tool for detecting and grossly quantifying a person's use of alcohol in a variety of security, medical, and legal environments. The basic chemistry of PEth is explained with a particular focus on factors that make it highly suitable as a biomarker for alcohol use in such situations. This article meets the need for a literature review that synthesizes PEth laboratory findings and suggests updated guidelines for interpretation. Several ethanol biomarkers have been used for detection or monitoring alcohol use but have significant limitations. Based on this review, the authors propose three guidelines for evaluating PEth values: Light or no Consumption (<20 ng/mL), Significant Consumption (20–199 ng/mL), and Heavy Consumption (>200 ng/mL). These guidelines are important in employment and security environments, but also have applicability in such diverse activities as alcohol treatment programs, organ transplant decisions, and monitoring impaired medical professionals.
MEDIA CONSTRUCTION OF CRIME REVISITED: MEDIA TYPES, CONSUMER CONTEXTS, AND FRAMES OF CRIME AND JUSTICE*
Authors: BARANAUSKAS ANDREW J. , DRAKULICH KEVIN M.
Published: July 2018

Through this study, we shed new light on a key line of inquiry for criminologists: the way the media influence the public's understanding of crime and justice. We argue for expanding the lens of studies on the media's construction of crime, moving away from one‐dimensional reactions to crime to an integrated set of frames about crime and justice policy while considering the potential influence of a diverse array of media forms and content. Most critically, this social construction process must be placed in context, specifically, the racial composition in which people consume media. By using two nationally representative surveys matched with contextual data, we identify two forms of media consumption that seem important to understandings of crime: local television news and TV crime dramas. Interestingly, local news seems more important than national news even to perceptions of national crime trends, whereas news consumed over the Internet is not relevant, nor are 24‐hour cable news channels once political views are taken into account. Television news viewers are also more likely to support tougher crime policies. Importantly, context matters: The influence of television news and crime dramas on perceptions of crime is strongest among White respondents who live near larger numbers of Black neighbors.
SLEep among diabetic patients and their GlycaEmic control (SLEDGE): A pilot observational study
Authors: Raj Jeffrey P. , Hansdak Samuel G. , Naik Dukhabandhu , Mahendri Narayani V. , Thomas Nihal
Published: July 2018

Background

Recent cohort studies have proven the association between sleep deprivation and adverse glycemic control (GC). The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS), a subjective measure of sleep deprivation, among type 2 diabetic mellitus (T2DM) patients and its association with GC.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study was conducted between July 2015 and June 2016 in five diabetes clinics in the district of Erode, Tamil Nadu, India. An equal number of consenting patients with T2DM was recruited consecutively from each of the centers, and EDS was measured subjectively using the Epworth sleepiness scale (ESS), whereas GC was assessed using HbA1c levels.

Results

In all, 126 patients were screened and 102 were found eligible for the study. The prevalence of EDS was 17.5% (95% confidence interval 10.13–24.87). The association between ESS scores and HbA1c levels was analyzed using linear regression after adjusting for age, dietary intake, inflammatory markers (erythrocyte sedimentation rate), depression (Patient Health Questionnaire‐9 score) and stress (Perceived Stress Scale score): for every unit increase in the ESS score, HbA1c increased by 0.143 g/dL (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Subjective EDS was seen in approximately one‐quarter of patients with diabetes in our population. There was a positive association between EDS and glycemic control. Screening of patients with diabetes for EDS should be part of routine diabetes management.
Parameterizing the robust design in the BUGS language: Lifetime carry‐over effects of environmental conditions during growth on a long‐lived bird
Authors: Riecke Thomas V. , Leach Alan G. , Gibson Dan , Sedinger James S.
Published: July 2018

Since the initial development of the robust design, this capture‐recapture model structure has been modified to estimate temporary emigration and expanded to include auxiliary information such as band recovery and live resight data using maximum likelihood approaches. These developments have allowed investigators to separately assess individual and group effects on true survival, site fidelity, and temporary emigration. Additionally, recent advances in the BUGS language have allowed researchers to develop increasingly complex, user‐specified models in Bayesian frameworks.

The robust design has rarely been implemented in the BUGS language, and previous attempts to parameterize the robust design in BUGS exhibited strong bias in estimates of temporary emigration rates. Given the limitations of current parameterizations of the robust design in Bayesian frameworks, and our research objectives, we have developed a parameterization of the robust design in the BUGS language that produces unbiased estimates of all model parameters.

We use this novel model structure to examine lifetime carry‐over effects of environmental conditions during early life on annual breeding probabilities of Pacific black brent Branta bernicla nigricans breeding on the Yukon–Kuskokwim River Delta in Western Alaska. We found that individuals that were more structurally developed as goslings bred at increased rates as adults (β = 0.14, f = 0.94), with no effect on adult survival (β = 0.01, f = 0.62). Additionally, we provide evidence for long‐term declines in apparent survival of breeding adult females at the population level (β = −0.01, f = 0.90).

This novel model structure can be easily expanded (Gibson et al., in press) and has important implications for population modelling at broad scales, where we apply it to a declining population of Pacific black brent. Given long‐term declines in gosling growth on the Yukon–Kuskokwim Delta, we predict future declines in population trajectories as a result of lifetime carry‐over effects of environmental conditions during growth on adult fecundity and long‐term declines in adult survival.
Frozen fungi: cryogenic storage is an effective method to store Fusarium cultures for the long‐term
Authors: Webb K.M. , Holman G. , Duke S. , Greene S. , McCluskey K.
Published: July 2018

Microbial culture collections provide a vast amount of genotypic and phenotypic information which are invaluable resources for future advancements in research. For most microbial strains, cryopreservation in the vapour phase above liquid nitrogen provides the most stable and long‐term storage method. However, in the case of fungal microbes, not all are suited for cryogenic storage and few studies have addressed the effectiveness of storage in the vapour phase above liquid nitrogen on a diverse collection of Fusarium species. In this work, a collection of 374 Fusarium strains from the Fungal Genetics Stock Center, including 24 unique species, were duplicated and sent to the National Laboratory for Genetic Resource Preservation for storage in the vapour phase above liquid nitrogen. After 5 years of storage the entire collection was tested for viability and phenotypic stability by using plating, cellular staining assays, assessing the number of viable cells and measuring the rate of growth of each isolate. Additionally, the rate of growth for ∼10% of the isolates were compared with the same isolates which had been stored at −80°C at the Fungal Genetics Stock Center over the same timeframe to determine if cryopreservation in liquid nitrogen vapour provided a comparable method of storage. All National Laboratory for Genetic Resources Preservation isolates grew after being stored at −165°C for 5 years. In general, the isolates that were stored at −165°C grew at a faster rate than the isolates stored at −80°C for the same period. Of the isolates stored at −165°C, most had greater than 80% cell viability, however, those isolates that had less than 50% cell viability generally also had fewer conidia germinate. These isolates may be at a greater risk for storage over longer times. In conclusion, storage at −165°C liquid nitrogen provided reliable preservation of a diverse collection of Fusarium spp. over 5 years, and culture viability data indicates that they will remain viable during additional storage for longer periods.
Monoamine oxidase‐A is a novel driver of stress‐induced premature senescence through inhibition of parkin‐mediated mitophagy
Authors: Manzella Nicola , Santin Yohan , Maggiorani Damien , Martini Hélène , Douin‐Echinard Victorine , Passos Joao F. , Lezoualc'h Frank , Binda Claudia , Parini Angelo , Mialet‐Perez Jeanne
Published: July 2018

Cellular senescence, the irreversible cell cycle arrest observed in somatic cells, is an important driver of age‐associated diseases. Mitochondria have been implicated in the process of senescence, primarily because they are both sources and targets of reactive oxygen species (ROS). In the heart, oxidative stress contributes to pathological cardiac ageing, but the mechanisms underlying ROS production are still not completely understood. The mitochondrial enzyme monoamine oxidase‐A (MAO‐A) is a relevant source of ROS in the heart through the formation of H2O2 derived from the degradation of its main substrates, norepinephrine (NE) and serotonin. However, the potential link between MAO‐A and senescence has not been previously investigated. Using cardiomyoblasts and primary cardiomyocytes, we demonstrate that chronic MAO‐A activation mediated by synthetic (tyramine) and physiological (NE) substrates induces ROS‐dependent DNA damage response, activation of cyclin‐dependent kinase inhibitors p21cip, p16ink4a, and p15ink4b and typical features of senescence such as cell flattening and SA‐β‐gal activity. Moreover, we observe that ROS produced by MAO‐A lead to the accumulation of p53 in the cytosol where it inhibits parkin, an important regulator of mitophagy, resulting in mitochondrial dysfunction. Additionally, we show that the mTOR kinase contributes to mitophagy dysfunction by enhancing p53 cytoplasmic accumulation. Importantly, restoration of mitophagy, either by overexpression of parkin or inhibition of mTOR, prevents mitochondrial dysfunction and induction of senescence. Altogether, our data demonstrate a novel link between MAO‐A and senescence in cardiomyocytes and provides mechanistic insights into the potential role of MAO‐dependent oxidative stress in age‐related pathologies.
Mental health symptoms during imprisonment: a longitudinal study
Authors: Dirkzwager A. J. E. , Nieuwbeerta P.
Published: July 2018

Objective

Mental health problems are common in prison populations. Less is known about how mental health problems develop during imprisonment. The objective was to examine the longitudinal course of mental health symptoms during imprisonment and individual factors associated with the development of these symptoms.

Method

In a prospective cohort study, 1.664 Dutch male prisoners were questioned 3 weeks after their arrival in detention. Those still in custody were questioned again after 3, 9, and 18 months. Multilevel analyses were conducted to identify predictors of the course of mental health symptoms.

Results

Prisoners reported continued elevated symptom levels compared to the general population. Inmates who entered detention with pre‐existing mental health problems and problematic alcohol/drugs use showed mental health improvements during detention.

Conclusion

The high levels of prisoners’ mental health problems highlight the importance of addressing mental health issues in prison. Imprisonment does not have an overall negative effect on mental health.
Double Robust Estimation for Multiple Unordered Treatments and Clustered Observations: Evaluating Drug-Eluting Coronary Artery Stents
Authors: Rose Sherri , Normand Sharon-Lise
Published: July 2018

Postmarket comparative effectiveness and safety analyses of therapeutic treatments typically involve large observational cohorts. We propose double robust machine learning estimation techniques for implantable medical device evaluations where there are more than two unordered treatments and patients are clustered in hospitals. This flexible approach also accommodates high-dimensional covariates drawn from clinical databases. The Massachusetts Data Analysis Center percutaneous coronary intervention cohort is used to assess the composite outcome of 10 drug-eluting stents among adults implanted with at least one drug-eluting stent in Massachusetts. We find remarkable discrimination between stents. A simulation study designed to mimic this coronary intervention cohort is also presented and produced similar results.
Myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) with isolated trisomy 8: a type of MDS frequently associated with myeloproliferative features? A report by the Groupe Francophone des Myélodysplasies
Authors: Drevon Louis , Marceau Alice , Maarek Odile , Cuccuini Wendy , Clappier Emmanuelle , Eclache Virginie , Cluzeau Thomas , Richez Valentine , Berkaoui Inès , Dimicoli‐Salazar Sophie , Bidet Audrey , Vial Jean‐Philippe , Park Sophie , Vieira Dos Santos Christina , Kaphan Eléonore , Berthon Céline , Stamatoullas Aspasia , Delhommeau François , Abermil Nassera , Braun Thorsten , Sapena Rosa , Lusina Daniel , Renneville Aline , Adès Lionel , Raynaud Sophie , Fenaux Pierre
Published: July 2018

Isolated trisomy 8 (+8) is a frequent cytogenetic abnormality in the myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS), but its characteristics are poorly reported. We performed a retrospective study of 138 MDS patients with isolated +8, classified or reclassified as MDS (excluding MDS/myeloproliferative neoplasm). Myeloproliferative (MP) features were defined by the repeated presence of one of the following: white blood cell count >10 × 109/l, myelemia (presence of circulating immature granulocytes with a predominance of more mature forms) >2%, palpable splenomegaly. Fifty‐four patients (39·1%) had MP features: 28 at diagnosis, 26 were acquired during evolution. MP forms had more EZH2 (33·3% vs. 12·0% in non‐MP, P = 0·047), ASXL1 (66·7% vs. 42·3%, P = 0·048) and STAG2 mutations (77·8% vs. 21·7%, P = 0·006). Median event‐free survival (EFS) and overall survival (OS) were 25 and 27 months for patients with MP features at diagnosis, versus 28 (P = 0·15) and 39 months (P = 0·085) for those without MP features, respectively. Among the 57 patients who received hypomethylating agent (HMA), OS was lower in MP cases (13 months vs. 23 months in non‐MP cases, P = 0.02). In conclusion, MP features are frequent in MDS with isolated +8. MP forms had more EZH2, ASXL1 and STAG2 mutations, responded poorly to HMA, and tended to have poorer survival than non‐MP forms.
Recipient single nucleotide polymorphisms in Paneth cell antimicrobial peptide genes and acute graft‐versus‐host disease: analysis of BMT CTN‐0201 and ‐0901 samples
Authors: Rashidi Armin , Shanley Ryan , Yohe Sophia L. , Thyagarajan Bharat , Curtsinger Julie , Anasetti Claudio , Waller Edmund K. , Scott Bart L. , Blazar Bruce R. , Weisdorf Daniel J.
Published: July 2018

Host genetics shape the gut microbiota, and gut dysbiosis increases the risk of acute graft‐versus‐host disease (aGVHD). Paneth cells and microbiota have interactions that contribute to immune regulation. α‐defensin‐5 (HD5) and regenerating islet‐derived protein 3 alpha (Reg3A) are the most abundant Paneth cell antimicrobial peptides (AMPs). We hypothesized that single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the genes for HD5 (DEFA5) and Reg3A (REG3A) predict aGVHD risk. We analysed pre‐transplant recipient peripheral blood mononuclear cell samples from randomized Blood and Marrow Transplant Clinical Trials Network (BMT CTN) studies 0201 (94 patients with bone marrow and 93 with peripheral blood grafts) and 0901 (86 patients with myeloablative and 77 with reduced‐intensity conditioning; all using peripheral blood grafts). In multivariable analysis (with a SNP × graft source interaction term in CTN‐0201 and a SNP × conditioning intensity term in CTN‐0901), DEFA5 rs4415345 and rs4610776 were associated with altered incidence of aGVHD grade II–IV [rs4415345 G vs. C: hazard ratio (HR) 0·58, 95% confidence interval (95% CI) 0·37–0·92, P = 0·02; rs4610776 T vs. A: HR 1·53, 95% CI 1·01–2·32, P = 0·05] in CTN‐0201, but not CTN‐0901, suggesting a stronger effect in bone marrow allografts. REG3A SNP was not associated with aGVHD. Host genetics may influence aGVHD risk by modulating Paneth cell function.
Recent developments in the management of pleural infection: A comprehensive review
Authors: Bedawi Eihab O. , Hassan Maged , Rahman Najib M.
Published: July 2018

Objectives

Pleural infection is a condition commonly encountered by the respiratory physician. This review aims to provide the reader with an update on the most recent data regarding the epidemiology, microbiology, and the management of pleural infection.

Data source

Medline was searched for articles related to pleural infection using the terms “pleural infection,” “empyema,” and “parapneumonic.” The search was limited to the years 1997‐2017. Only human studies and reports in English were included.

Results

A rise in the incidence of pleural infection is seen worldwide. Despite the improvement in healthcare practices, the mortality from pleural infection remains high. The role of oral microflora in the etiology of pleural infection is firmly established. A concise review of the recent insights on the pathogenesis of pleural infections is presented. A particular focus is made on the role of tPA, DNAse and similar substances and their interaction with inflammatory cells and how this affects the pathogenesis and treatment of pleural infection.

Conclusion

Pleural infection is a common disease with significant morbidity and mortality, as well as a considerable economic burden. The role of medical management is expanding thanks to the widespread use of newer treatments.
Observational research on sodium glucose co‐transporter‐2 inhibitors: A real breakthrough?
Authors: Raschi Emanuel , Poluzzi Elisabetta , Fadini Gian Paolo , Marchesini Giulio , De Ponti Fabrizio
Published: July 2018

Sodium glucose co‐transporter‐2 inhibitors have attracted the interest of the scientific community following the results from dedicated cardiovascular outcome trials, which demonstrated remarkable reduction in all‐cause mortality and other cardiovascular (CV) endpoints with empagliflozin and canagliflozin. These impressive results raised further expectations on real world data from large observational cohort studies. They were designed to address the possible existence of a class effect, and the uncertainty on whether this benefit can be extended from secondary to primary CV prevention of patients with type 2 diabetes. In this review, we collated data from existing observational studies (including the celebrated CVD‐REAL cohorts) and critically appraised results and methodological issues with the aim of providing clinical insight, including unsettled aspects, and proposing a research agenda for future investigations.
Glycaemic control and mortality in older people with type 2 diabetes: The Fremantle Diabetes Study Phase II
Authors: Bruce David G. , Davis Wendy A. , Davis Timothy M. E.
Published: July 2018

Aim

To investigate whether tight glycaemic control achieved with metformin, insulin or sulphonylurea‐based pharmacotherapy increases all‐cause mortality in older people with type 2 diabetes.

Materials and Methods

We conducted a prospective cohort study of individuals with known diabetes recruited between 2008 and 2011 and followed until 2016. The impact of baseline glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) on mortality hazards was investigated in participants aged ≥75 years. Proportional hazards models for time to death were constructed from the baseline clinical assessment, then the variables of interest (HbA1c, treatment category and their interactions) were entered.

Results

There were 367 participants (mean age 80.1 ± 3.9 years, median [interquartile range] HbA1c 50 [45‐56] mmol/mol or 6.7 [6.3‐7.3]%) who were followed for a median (interquartile range) 6.7 (4.5‐7.7) years, during which 40.9% of the participants died. At baseline, 60.4% were on metformin‐based treatment, 35.3% on sulphonylurea‐based treatment and 23.2% on treatment including insulin. Baseline HbA1c was significantly associated with mortality in a model that included interactions between HbA1c and the three treatment‐based groups compared with non‐pharmacological treatment. The metformin treatment group had higher mortality when HbA1c levels were <48 mmol/mol (<6.5%) and the sulphonylurea and insulin treatment groups had higher mortality when HbA1c levels were <52 mmol/mol (<7.0%), with hazard ratios of 2.63 (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.39‐4.97), 2.49 (95% CI 1.14‐5.44) and 2.22 (95% CI 1.12‐4.43), respectively.

Conclusions

Tight glycaemic control may be hazardous in older people with type 2 diabetes when achieved with pharmacotherapy with metformin, and especially with insulin or sulphonylureas. These data confirm that overtreatment is likely to be an important clinical problem in this vulnerable population.
Clinical and imaging features of pulmonary artery sling: The experience in one major medical center
Authors: Yao Mengyun , Li Yuman , Ali Shima Ibrahim , Xie Mingxing , Lv Qing
Published: July 2018

This case series describes echocardiographic and computed tomography angiographic (CTA) characteristics, clinical features, diagnosis, and treatment in 15 patients of Pulmonary artery sling (PAS). Echocardiography is effective in diagnosing PAS, when the main pulmonary artery extends to the right pulmonary artery directly with the left pulmonary artery arising from the right pulmonary artery. CTA, clearly demonstrating the position and extent of trachea compression, the anatomy of PAS and the spatial relationships among the PAS, trachea and the esophagus, is necessary for the final diagnosis. Clinical presentations are caused by the compression of the tracheobronchial tree rather than the PAS itself. Left pulmonary artery reimplantation is the treatment of choice.
A clinical application of preload stress echocardiography for predicting future hemodynamic worsening in patients with early‐stage heart failure
Authors: Saijo Yoshihito , Yamada Hirotsugu , Kusunose Kenya , Bando Mika , Nishio Susumu , Torii Yuta , Hirata Yukina , Seno Hiromitsu , Matsuura Tomomi , Ise Takayuki , Tobiume Takeshi , Yamaguchi Koji , Yagi Shusuke , Soeki Takeshi , Wakatsuki Tetsuzo , Sata Masataka
Published: July 2018

Aim

To improve the prognosis of patients with heart failure, risk stratification in their early stage is important. We assessed whether the change in transmitral flow (TMF) velocity pattern during preload augmentation can predict future hemodynamic worsening in early‐stage heart failure patients with impaired relaxation TMF pattern.

Methods

We designed a prospective cohort study that included 155 consecutive patients with impaired relaxation (IR) pattern at rest. Preload stress echocardiography was achieved using leg‐positive pressure (LPP), and changes in TMF pattern during the LPP was observed during baseline echocardiographic examination. The patients whose TMF pattern developed to pseudonormal (PN) pattern throughout the study period were classified into the change to PN group, and patients whose TMF pattern stayed in IR pattern were classified into the stay in IR group.

Results

The median follow‐up period was 17 months. The average age was 68 ± 11 years old, and 97 patients (63%) were male. Among 155 patients, 27 were classified into the change to PN group. A Cox proportional hazard analysis confirmed that the change in the peak atrial systolic TMF velocity during the LPP (ΔA, hazard ratio = 0.58 per 1SD; 95% CI = 0.39–0.88, P = 0.010) was the powerful independent predictor of change into PN pattern. Kaplan–Meier analysis revealed that the patients with ΔA ≤ −7 cm/s had more likely to develop into PN pattern than patients with ΔA > −7 cm/s (P = 0.001).

Conclusions

Evaluation of a response in TMF during the LPP might provide an incremental diagnostic value to detect future overt heart failure in patients with early‐stage heart failure.
Shocked by therapy? Unemployment in the first years of the socio‐economic transition in Poland and its long‐term consequences
Authors: Myck Michał , Oczkowska Monika
Published: July 2018

We examine the long‐term implications of unemployment for material conditions and well‐being using the Polish sample from the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe (SHARE). Retrospective data from the SHARELIFE survey are used to reconstruct labour market experiences across the threshold of the socio‐economic transformation from a centrally planned to a free market economy in Poland. These individual experiences are matched with outcomes observed in the survey about 20 years later to examine their correlation with unemployment at the time of the transition. We find that becoming unemployed in the early 1990s correlates significantly with income, assets and a number of measures of well‐being recorded in 2007 and 2012. Using plant closures to reflect exogenous changes to labour market status at the time of the transition, we are able to confirm the causal effect of unemployment on income and house ownership 20 years later, but find no evidence for a long‐term causal relationship between unemployment and such measures of well‐being as life satisfaction, depression and subjective assessment of material conditions.
Distinguishing lupus anticoagulants from factor VIII inhibitors in haemophilic and non‐haemophilic patients
Authors: Rampersad A. G. , Boylan B. , Miller C. H. , Shapiro A.
Published: July 2018

Introduction

Accurate diagnosis of an inhibitor, a neutralizing antibody to infused factor VIII (FVIII), is essential for appropriate management of haemophilia A (HA). Low‐titre inhibitors may be difficult to diagnose due to high rates of false‐positive inhibitor results in that range. Transient low‐titre inhibitors and false‐positive inhibitors may be due to the presence of a lupus anticoagulant (LA) or other non‐specific antibodies. Fluorescence immunoassay (FLI) to detect antibodies to FVIII is a sensitive method to identify inhibitors in HA. Evaluations of antibody profiles by various groups have demonstrated that haemophilic inhibitors detected by Nijmegen‐Bethesda (NBA) and chromogenic Bethesda (CBA) assays correlate with positivity for anti‐FVIII immunoglobulin (Ig) G1 and G4.

Aim

This study sought to determine whether FLI could distinguish false‐positive FVIII inhibitor results related to LAs from clinically relevant FVIII inhibitors in HA patients.

Methods

Samples from haemophilic and non‐haemophilic subjects were tested for LA, specific FVIII inhibitors by NBA and CBA, and anti‐FVIII immunoglobulin profiles by FLI.

Results

No samples from LA‐positive non‐haemophilic subjects were positive by FLI for anti‐FVIII IgG4. Conversely, 91% of NBA‐positive samples from haemophilia subjects were positive for anti‐FVIII IgG4. Two of 11 haemophilia subjects had samples negative for anti‐FVIII IgG4 and CBA, which likely represented LA rather than FVIII inhibitor presence.

Conclusions

Assessment of anti‐FVIII profiles along with the CBA may be useful to distinguish a clinically relevant low‐titre FVIII inhibitor from a transient LA in HA patients.