bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
New onset idiosyncratic liver enzyme elevations with biological therapy in inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Shelton E. , Chaudrey K. , Sauk J. , Khalili H. , Masia R. , Nguyen D. D. , Yajnik V. , Ananthakrishnan A. N.
Published: March 2015

Background

Anti‐tumour necrosis factor α (anti‐TNF) agents have been implicated in drug‐induced liver injury. There is minimal data on this occurrence in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) patients.

Aim

To identify the characteristics of liver enzyme elevations following anti‐TNF therapy initiation in IBD.

Methods

A retrospective cohort of patients initiating anti‐TNF therapy were analysed for new onset alanine transaminase (ALT) elevation (≥60 U/L). We collected data on natural history, outcomes and patient characteristics compared with controls with persistent normal liver enzymes. Likelihood of causal association was assessed using the RUCAM score.

Results

From 1753 patients initiating an anti‐TNF (1170 infliximab, 575 adalimumab, 8 certolizumab), 102 (6%) developed new onset ALT elevation. In 54 (53%), this could be linked to an alternate aetiology. Among those with idiopathic ALT elevations, the median time to ALT elevation from anti‐TNF initiation was 18 weeks and median peak ALT was 96 U/L. Six underwent liver biopsy, all demonstrating hepatitis with autoimmune features. Compared to controls, cases were on a lower dose of infliximab (5.7 vs. 6.7 mg/kg, P = 0.02) but were otherwise similar in body mass index, sex and age. On follow‐up, 34 continued the anti‐TNF, 14 stopped therapy and 4 initiated steroids. Most (85%) normalised their LFTs after a median of 17 weeks including 28 (82%) of those who continued anti‐TNF therapy. Ten patients were transitioned to a second anti‐TNF without recurrence.

Conclusions

ALT elevations occurred in 6% of IBD patients initiating anti‐TNF therapy. Most idiopathic elevations were mild, transient and resolved despite therapy continuation.
HIF‐2α attenuates lymphangiogenesis by up‐regulating IGFBP1 in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Geis Theresa , Popp Rüdiger , Hu Jiong , Fleming Ingrid , Henke Nina , Dehne Nathalie , Brüne Bernhard
Published: March 2015

Background Information

Tumour‐associated lymphangiogenesis was identified as an important clinical determinant for the prognosis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and significantly influences patient survival. However, in this context, little is known about regulation of lymphangiogenesis by hypoxia‐inducible factors (HIF). In HCC, mainly HIF‐1α was positively correlated with lymphatic invasion and metastasis, whereas a defined role of HIF‐2α is missing.

Results

We created a stable knockdown (k/d) of HIF‐1α and HIF‐2α in HepG2 cells and generated co‐cultures of HepG2 spheroids with embryonic bodies. This constitutes an in vitro tumour model mimicking the cancer microenvironment and allows addressing the role of distinct HIF isoforms in regulating HCC lymphangiogenesis. In co‐cultures with a HIF‐2α k/d, lymphangiogenesis was significantly increased, whereas the k/d of HIF‐1α showed no effect. The HIF‐2α‐dependent lymphangiogenic phenotype was confirmed in vivo using matrigel plug assays with supernatants of HIF‐2α k/d HepG2 cells. We identified and verified insulin‐like growth factor binding protein 1 (IGFBP1) as a HIF‐2α target gene. The potential of HepG2 cells to induce lymphangiogenesis in two independent functional assays was significantly enhanced either by a k/d of HIF‐2α or by silencing IGFBP1. Moreover, we confirmed IGF as a potent pro‐lymphatic growth factor with IGFBP1 being its negative modulator.

Conclusions

We propose that HIF‐2α acts as an important negative regulator of hepatic lymphangiogenesis in vitro and in vivo by inducing IGFBP1 and thus, interfering with IGF signalling. Therefore, HIF‐2α may constitute a critical target in HCC therapy.
300 million years of diversification: elucidating the patterns of orthopteran evolution based on comprehensive taxon and gene sampling
Authors: Song Hojun , Amédégnato Christiane , Cigliano Maria Marta , Desutter‐Grandcolas Laure , Heads Sam W. , Huang Yuan , Otte Daniel , Whiting Michael F.
Published: March 2015

Orthoptera is the most diverse order among the polyneopteran groups and includes familiar insects, such as grasshoppers, crickets, katydids, and their kin. Due to a long history of conflicting classification schemes based on different interpretations of morphological characters, the phylogenetic relationships within Orthoptera are poorly understood and its higher classification has remained unstable. In this study, we establish a robust phylogeny of Orthoptera including 36 of 40 families representing all 15 currently recognized superfamilies and based on complete mitochondrial genomes and four nuclear loci, in order to test previous phylogenetic hypotheses and to provide a framework for a natural classification and a reference for studying the pattern of divergence and diversification. We find strong support for monophyletic suborders (Ensifera and Caelifera) as well as major superfamilies. Our results corroborate most of the higher‐level relationships previously proposed for Caelifera, but suggest some novel relationships for Ensifera. Using fossil calibrations, we provide divergence time estimates for major orthopteran lineages and show that the current diversity has been shaped by dynamic shifts of diversification rates at different geological times across different lineages. We also show that mitochondrial tRNA gene orders have been relatively stable throughout the evolutionary history of Orthoptera, but a major tRNA gene rearrangement occurred in the common ancestor of Tetrigoidea and Acridomorpha, thereby representing a robust molecular synapomorphy, which has persisted for 250 Myr.
Synthesis, characterisation, and study of the photophysical properties of highly stable imidazole‐based novel solid‐state fluorescent azo colourants
Authors: Moolya Preetam N. , Gadilohar Balu L. , Shankarling Ganapati S.
Published: March 2015

Novel solid‐state fluorescent azo colourants derived from 5‐amino‐2‐(4‐dimethylaminophenyl) benzimidazole as electron donor were synthesised. The colourants were characterised by means of elemental analysis, 1H NMR, and mass spectrometry. These colourants showed molar extinction coefficients in the range 12 000–48 000 dm3 mol−1 cm−1. These compounds exhibited solid‐state fluorescence under short UV (254 nm). Electron coupling originating from broad π‐electron delocalisation and keto–enol form is responsible for the large Stokes shift as indicated by absorption and fluorescence spectra. These colourants were soluble in polar aprotic high‐boiling solvents such as N,N‐dimethylformamide, N,N‐dimethylacetamide, and dimethyl sulphoxide, whereas they were insoluble in other common organic solvents. Thermogravimetric analysis of solid‐state fluorescent colourants showed that two of the colourants showed thermal stability in the range 230–240 °C, whereas for the rest of the colourants it was found to be lower, and hence the two colourants could find application in the coloration of polymers.
Building a Central Repository for Research Ethics Consultation Data: A Proposal for a Standard Data Collection Tool
Authors: Cho Mildred K. , Taylor Holly , McCormick Jennifer B. , Anderson Nick , Barnard David , Boyle Mary B. , Capron Alexander M. , Dorfman Elizabeth , Havard Kathryn , Reider Carson , Sadler John , Schwartz Peter , Sharp Richard R. , Danis Marion , Wilfond Benjamin S.
Published: March 2015

Clinical research ethics consultation services have been established across academic health centers over the past decade. This paper presents the results of collaboration within the CTSA consortium to develop a standard approach to the collection of research ethics consultation information to serve as a foundation for quality improvement, education, and research efforts. This approach includes categorizing and documenting descriptive information about the requestor, research project, the ethical question, the consult process, and describing the basic structure for a consult note. This paper also explores challenges in determining how to share some of this information between collaborating institutions related to concerns about confidentially, data quality, and informatics. While there is much still to be learned to improve the process of clinical research ethics consultation, these tools can advance these efforts, which, in turn, can facilitate the ethical conduct of research.
Pagetoid reticulosis tumor cells with double expression of TCRγδ and TCRαβ: an off‐target phenomenon or genuine expression?
Authors: Tomasini Dario , Niccoli Annalisa , Crivelli Filippo
Published: March 2015

Pagetoid reticulosis (PR) is a low‐grade primary cutaneous T‐cell lymphoma showing localized patches or plaques with an intrapeidermal proliferation of neoplastic T‐cells with heterogeneous immunophenotype. We describe a 73‐year‐old woman with a 8‐year history of gluteal lesions of PR, whom large blast cells were CD4/CD8 double negative T‐cells with an activated cytotoxic profile. The case was investigated using a broad panel of monoclonal antibodies including TCRγM1, a new available antibody that recognizes the γ chain subunit of the T‐cell receptor (TCR) in formalin‐fixed paraffin‐embedded tissue. Large blast cells were simultaneously positive for TCRαβ and TCRγδ with an activated cytotoxic phenotype. It is worldwide accepted the mutual exclusive expression of TCRαβ and TCRγδ but six different studies, dealing with TCRγδ expression in various types of extra‐nodal lymphomas, reported cases whom tumor cells expressed simultaneously TCRαβ and TCRγδ. Our data and those of similar reports, suggest the possibility of existence of a subset of extra‐nodal T‐cell lymphomas showing simultaneous expression by tumor cells of TCRγδ and TCRαβ with an immunoprofile consistent with an origin from TCRγδ+ T lymphocytes. This unusual subset has preferential, but not exclusive, skin localization and variable epidermotropism.
“A DIAMOND IS FOREVER” AND OTHER FAIRY TALES: THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN WEDDING EXPENSES AND MARRIAGE DURATION
Authors: Francis‐Tan Andrew , Mialon Hugo M.
Published: March 2015

In this study, we evaluate the association between wedding spending and marriage duration using data from a survey of more than 3,000 ever‐married persons in the United States. Controlling for a number of demographic and relationship characteristics, we find evidence that marriage duration is inversely associated with spending on the engagement ring and wedding ceremony. (JEL J12, Z1, D1)
Does host‐plant diversity explain species richness in insects? A test usingCoccidae (Hemiptera)
Authors: LIN YEN‐PO , COOK DIANNE H. , GULLAN PENNY J. , COOK LYN G.
Published: March 2015

1. The megadiverse herbivores and their host plants are a major component of biodiversity, and their interactions have been hypothesised to drive the diversification of both.

2. If plant diversity influences the diversity of insects, there is an expectation that insect species richness will be strongly correlated with host‐plant species richness. This should be observable at two levels (i) more diverse host‐plant groups should harbour more species of insects, and (ii) the species richness of a group of insects should correlate with the richness of the host groups it uses. However, such a correlation is also consistent with a hypothesis of random host use, in which insects encounter and use hosts in proportion to the diversity of host plants. Neither of these expectations has been widely tested.

3. These expectations were tested using data from a species‐rich group of insects – theCoccidae (Hemiptera).

4. Significant positive correlations were found between the species richness of coccid clades (genera) and the species richness of the host‐plant family or families upon which the clades occur. On a global scale, more closely related plant families have more similar communities of coccid genera but the correlation is weak.

5. Random host use could not be rejected for many coccids but randomisation tests and similarity of coccid communities on closely related plant families show that there is non‐random host use in some taxa. Overall, our results support the idea that plant diversity is a driver of species richness of herbivorous insects, probably via escape‐and‐radiate or oscillation‐type processes.
The effect of body size on oviposition success of a minute parasitoid in nature
Authors: SEGOLI MICHAL , ROSENHEIM JAY A.
Published: March 2015

1. Individual fitness is often assumed to be positively correlated with body size, but this has rarely been explored under realistic field conditions. This assumption was tested in a minute parasitoid foraging for planthopper eggs in saltmarsh habitats.

2. We used a novel sampling technique that captures females as they naturally die and fall off the vegetation, and estimated their oviposition success according to the number of eggs remaining in their bodies.

3. Our results support a positive relationship between oviposition success and body size of female parasitoids.

4. Only a single female had exhausted her eggs before she died suggesting that the larger body size advantage is not realised primarily via increased fecundity, but instead via increased longevity or foraging‐efficiency.
Prospective validation of predictive value of abdominal computed tomography scan on time to first treatment in Rai 0 chronic lymphocytic leukemia patients: results of the multicenter O‐CLL1‐GISL study
Authors: Gentile Massimo , Cutrona Giovanna , Molica Stefano , Ilariucci Fiorella , Mauro Francesca R. , Di Renzo Nicola , Di Raimondo Francesco , Vincelli Iolanda , Todoerti Katia , Matis Serena , Musolino Caterina , Fabris Sonia , Lionetti Marta , Levato Luciano , Zupo Simona , Angrilli Francesco , Consoli Ugo , Festini Gianluca , Longo Giuseppe , Cortelezzi Agostino , Musto Pellegrino , Federico Massimo , Neri Antonino , Ferrarini Manlio , Morabito Fortunato
Published: March 2015

Objective

We performed an external and multicentric validation of the predictive value of abdominal computed tomography (aCT) on time to first treatment (TTFT) in early stage chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) patients.

Methods

aCT was performed at diagnosis in 181 Rai 0 patients enrolled in the O‐CLL1‐GISL trial (clinicaltrial.gov ID:NCT00917549).

Results

Fifty‐five patients showed an abnormal aCT. Patients with an abnormal aCT showed a significantly shorter TTFT than those with normal aCT (P < 0.0001). At multivariate analysis, aCT (P = 0.011), β‐2 microglobulin (P = 0.019), and CD38 expression (P = 0.047) correlated with TTFT. Following IWCLL 2008 criteria, 112 (61.9%) cases remained at Rai 0, while 69 (38.1%) satisfied the criteria of clinical monoclonal B‐cell lymphocytosis (cMBL). Reclassified Rai 0 patients with an abnormal aCT showed a significantly shorter TTFT than those with a normal aCT (P < 0.0001). At multivariate analysis, only aCT (P = 0.011) correlated with TTFT. Eleven cMBL cases (15.9%) showed an abnormal aCT and were reclassified as small lymphocytic lymphomas (SLL); nonetheless, TTFT was similar for cMBLs and SLLs.

Conclusion

Our results confirm the ability of the abnormal aCT to predict progression in early stage cases.
Fighting microbial drug resistance: a primer on the role of evolutionary biology in public health
Authors: Perron Gabriel G. , Inglis R. Fredrik , Pennings Pleuni S. , Cobey Sarah
Published: March 2015

Although microbes have been evolving resistance to antimicrobials for millennia, the spread of resistance in pathogen populations calls for the development of new drugs and treatment strategies. We propose that successful, long‐term resistance management requires a better understanding of how resistance evolves in the first place. This is an opportunity for evolutionary biologists to engage in public health, a collaboration that has substantial precedent. Resistance evolution has been an important tool for developing and testing evolutionary theory, especially theory related to the genetic basis of new traits and constraints on adaptation. The present era is no exception. The articles in this issue highlight the breadth of current research on resistance evolution and also its challenges. In this introduction, we review the conceptual advances that have been achieved from studying resistance evolution and describe a path forward.
Integrating evolution in the management of captive zoo populations
Authors: Schulte‐Hostedde Albrecht I. , Mastromonaco Gabriela F.
Published: March 2015

Both natural animal populations and those in captivity are subject to evolutionary forces. Evolutionary changes to captive populations may be an important, but poorly understood, factor that can affect the sustainability of these populations. The importance of maintaining the evolutionary integrity of zoo populations, especially those that are used for conservation efforts including reintroductions, is critical for the conservation of biodiversity. Here, we propose that a greater appreciation for an evolutionary perspective may offer important insights that can enhance the reproductive success and health for the sustainability of captive populations. We provide four examples and associated strategies that highlight this approach, including minimizing domestication (i.e., genetic adaptation to captivity), integrating natural mating systems into captive breeding protocols, minimizing the effects of translocation on variation in photoperiodism, and understanding the interplay of parasites/pathogens and inflammation. There are a myriad of other issues that may be important for captive populations, and we conclude that these may often be species specific. Nonetheless, an evolutionary perspective may mitigate some of the challenges currently facing captive populations that are important from a conservation perspective, including their sustainability.
Essential oils in the management of the donkey louse, Bovicola ocellatus
Authors: Ellse L. , Sands B. , Burden F. A. , Wall R.
Published: March 2015

Reasons for performing study

Chewing lice are widespread and clinically compromising parasites of livestock and equids. Their management is complicated by growing levels of resistance to commonly applied insecticides. Hence, the development of novel approaches to their control is of major clinical interest.

Objectives

To assess the effects of incorporating the essential oils of tea tree and lavender into a grooming programme for populations of donkeys with natural infestations of Bovicola ocellatus in the UK and Ireland when louse populations were at their winter seasonal peak.

Study design

In vivo field trial.

Methods

Suspensions of 5% (v/v) tea tree or lavender oil or an excipient only control were groomed into the coats of winter‐housed donkeys (n = 198) on 2 occasions, 2 weeks apart. Louse counts were conducted before each application and 2 weeks later.

Results

After 2 applications, the groups groomed with lavender or tea tree oil suspensions had a significant reduction in louse intensity, with a mean decline in louse abundance of 78% (95% confidence interval 76–80%). Louse numbers in the groups groomed with excipient only either did not change or increased significantly. Donkey hair length had no effect on the decline in louse numbers.

Conclusions

These results demonstrate that the inclusion of essential oil suspensions during grooming can be used to manage louse populations successfully.

The Summary is available in Chinese – see Supporting Information.
Cardiovascular effects of pimobendan in healthy mature horses
Authors: Afonso T. , Giguère S. , Rapoport G. , Barton M. H. , Coleman A. E.
Published: March 2015

Reasons for performing study

Pimobendan is an inodilator used in dogs for the management of heart failure due to myxomatous valve disease or dilated cardiomyopathy. The lack of data regarding the effects of pimobendan in horses prevents the rational use of this drug.

Objective

To determine the cardiovascular effects of pimobendan in healthy mature horses.

Study design

Randomised experimental study.

Methods

Five horses were fasted overnight prior to receiving i.v. pimobendan (0.25 mg/kg bwt), intragastric (i.g.) pimobendan (0.25 mg/kg bwt) or i.g. placebo with a washout period of one week between each administration. Horses were instrumented for the measurement of right ventricular (RV) minimum pressure,RVmaximum pressure,RVend diastolic pressure, and maximum rate of increase and decrease inRVpressure before and 0.5, 1, 2, 4, and 8 h after drug administration. Arterial blood pressure, central venous pressure, cardiac output and heart rate were measured at the same time points. Data were expressed as a maximum percentage of change over baseline values.

Results

There were no adverse effects associated with administration of pimobendan. The percentage increase in heart rate was significantly greater for horses given pimobendan i.g. (33 ± 4%) and i.v. (36 ± 14%) than for those given a placebo (−2 ± 7%). The percentage increase in maximum rate of increase inRVpressure (35 ± 36%) and the percentage decrease in minimum pressure (47 ± 24%) and end diastolic pressure (34 ± 13%) were significantly greater in horses given pimobendan i.v. than in those given placebo. Other variables measured were not significantly different between treatment groups.

Conclusion

Pimobendan administered i.v. has positive chronotropic and inotropic effects in healthy mature horses and warrants further investigation for the treatment of heart failure in horses.
Medial patellar ligament splitting in horses with upward fixation of the patella: A long‐term follow‐up
Authors: Andersen C. , Tnibar A.
Published: March 2015

Reasons for performing study

Medial patellar ligament splitting (MPLS) has been shown to be a highly effective and minimally invasive treatment for upward fixation of the patella (UFP) in horses. However, long‐term follow‐up results of this procedure have not previously been reported.

Objectives

To evaluate the long‐term resolution of UFP following MPLS and provide information on complications and recurrence.

Study design

Retrospective case series.

Methods

Data were collected from horses that underwent MPLS between 1999 and 2013. All cases had a confirmed diagnosis of UFP that had not responded to conservative therapy. Data were collected from medical records, including follow‐up visits and through telephone conversations with the owner, trainer or referring veterinarian.

Results

A total of 85 horses were included. Fifty‐eight horses (68%) had surgery under general anaesthesia in dorsal recumbency, while 27 horses (32%) underwent standing surgery and 97.6% had complete resolution of the UFP immediately after surgery or within the 2 week rehabilitation period. Two cases (2.4%) had only unilateral resolution after bilateral surgery, even after the procedure was repeated. The majority of cases (90.5%) were followed up at least 3 and up to 14 years after surgery. No short‐ or long‐term complications were reported. No recurrence of UFP was observed in the horses that resumed exercise after surgery.

Conclusions

Medial patellar ligament splitting is a highly effective and minimally invasive surgical procedure to treat UFP when conservative treatment is unsuccessful. In addition, it allows for a very rapid return to sports activity. No short‐ or long‐term complications were observed and no recurrence of this condition was noted.
VHR/DUSP3 phosphatase: structure, function and regulation
Authors: Pavic Karolina , Duan Guangyou , Köhn Maja
Published: March 2015

Vaccinia H1‐related (VHR) phosphatase, also known as dual‐specificity phosphatase (DUSP) 3, is a small member of theDUSP(also calledDSP) family of phosphatases.VHRhas a preference for phospho‐tyrosine substrates, and has important roles in cellular signaling ranging from cell‐cycle regulation and theDNAdamage response toMAPKsignaling, platelet activation and angiogenesis.VHR/DUSP3 has been implicated in several human cancers, where its tumor‐suppressing and ‐promoting properties have been described. We give a detailed overview ofVHR/DUSP3 phosphatase and compare it with its most closely related phosphatasesDUSP13B,DUSP26 andDUSP27.
Clinical characteristics and survival outcomes of super‐elderly hepatocellular carcinoma patients not indicated for surgical resection
Authors: Kinoshita Akiyoshi , Onoda Hiroshi , Ueda Kaoru , Imai Nami , Iwaku Akira , Tanaka Ken , Fushiya Nao , Koike Kazuhiko , Nishino Hirokazu , Tajiri Hisao
Published: March 2015

Aim

Considering the dramatic increase in average life expectancy during the 20th century throughout the world, the management of elderly patients with cancer has become a global issue. We herein investigated the clinical characteristics and outcomes of super‐elderly hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients over 80 years old not indicated for surgical resection.

Methods

We retrospectively evaluated 206 newly diagnosed HCC patients. The patients were divided into two groups according to their age at inclusion; a super‐elderly group (n = 37, ≥80 years) and a younger group (n = 169, <80 years). We compared the clinical characteristics, overall survival (OS) and disease‐specific survival (DSS) rates among the two groups. Both univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to identify the factors associated with the OS and DSS.

Results

The proportion of women was higher in the super‐elderly group than in the younger group (P = 0.017). There were no significant differences in the OS (P = 0.171) or DSS (P = 0.176) between the two groups. The multivariate analysis revealed that only the Cancer Liver Italian Program score (hazard ratio [HR], 2.972; P < 0.0001; HR, 3.694; P < 0.0001) was independently associated with the OS and DSS. Age was not found to be associated with the OS or DSS according to either the univariate or multivariate analysis.

Conclusion

There were no significant differences in the OS and DSS rates among the super‐elderly HCC patients and younger HCC patients not indicated for surgical resection. An advanced age itself does not restrict the therapeutic approach, even in super‐elderly HCC patients not indicated for surgical resection.
Effects of antiviral therapy for hepatitis C following treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma: survey findings of the Japanese Red Cross Liver Study Group
Authors: Joko Kouji , Goto Tohru , Watanabe Hiroshi , Mitsuda Akari , Uchida Yasushi , Hasebe Chitomi , Tsuruta Shotaro , Kimura Hiroyuki , Koike Takero , Akamatsu Takuji , Mashiba Toshie , Ochi Hironori , Nakamura Yoshiko , Tsuchiya Kaoru , Kurosaki Masayuki , Izumi Namiki
Published: March 2015

Aim

To investigate, in a large number of cases at multiple institutions, the effects and limitations of antiviral therapy for hepatitis C following treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in clinical practice.

Methods

Retrospective analysis was performed of 112 patients who had received interferon (IFN) for treating hepatitis C following treatment of HCC and were registered with the Japanese Red Cross Liver Study Group. Factors that may influence recurrence and survival rates were investigated.

Results

Factors involved in prevention of recurrence were: surgical resection as HCC treatment, platelet and α‐fetoprotein (AFP) levels prior to IFN administration, IFN adherence and post‐IFN AFP level. Multivariate analysis showed post‐IFN AFP level to be an independent factor. Factors involved in prolonging survival were: IFN adherence, IFN response (sustained viral response), pre‐IFN alanine aminotransferase and AFP levels, post‐IFN AFP level and absence of recurrence. Multivariate analysis showed absence of recurrence to be an independent factor. Although IFN adherence was involved in recurrence and survival, ribavirin adherence was not. IFN was suggested to be involved in preventing recurrence and improving survival due not only to its anti‐viral effect, but also its antitumor effect.

Conclusion

Although complete prevention of HCC recurrence is difficult, the most important factor affecting first recurrence is the AFP level at 6 months after the conclusion of antiviral treatment. The survival rate improves dramatically if the hepatitis C virus is eliminated, but the most important factor for improving survival is absence of recurrence.
The Incentive Factors for the (Non‐)Disclosure of Material Weakness in Internal Control over Financial Reporting: Evidence from J‐SOX Mandated Audits
Authors: Yazawa Kenichi
Published: March 2015

This study uses data on Japanese listed companies for the period from 2009 to 2012 to examine the incentive factors for the (non‐)disclosure of material weakness (MW) in internal control over financial reporting (ICFR). The propensity score matching results of matched and potential MW companies from the research sample reveal that companies that do not disclose MW have longer management tenure, Big 3 auditors, lower audit fees, larger boards of directors, fewer outside directors, and greater main bank involvement than those companies that disclose MW. In addition, the non‐disclosure of MW at the company level is associated with longer management tenure, larger management shareholdings, and greater main bank involvement, whereas the non‐disclosure of MW at the account‐specific level is associated with longer management tenure, Big 3 auditors, lower audit fees, significant non‐audit services, and greater main bank involvement. These results suggest that the assessment and audit process of internal control systems in Japan is sensitive to management‐ and audit‐related (non‐)disclosure incentives. The findings provide useful academic insights as well as practical guidance for companies in Japan, the United States, and other countries.
Development of a medication monitoring attitude measure using a mixed methods item development process
Authors: Witry Matthew J , Wesely Pamela M , Goedken Amber M , Ernst Erika J , Sorofman Bernard A , Doucette William R
Published: March 2015

Objectives

Medication monitoring is important for safe and effective medication use; however, no attitudinal measure exists for a health care provider's medication monitoring attitude. The objectives of this study were to (1) create a measure of a community pharmacist medication monitoring attitude; (2) test concurrent validity using a validated measure of medication monitoring behaviours; and (3) report community pharmacist attitudes towards medication monitoring.

Methods

A mixed methods item development process was employed to generate Likert-type items from qualitative interviews. Following item review and piloting, a four-contact survey, including 20 6-point Likert-type items and the four-item Behavioral Pharmaceutical Care Scale monitoring domain, was mailed to 599 randomly sampled US community pharmacists from the state of Iowa. Exploratory factor analysis, Pearson's correlation and descriptive statistics were used to address study objectives.

Key findings

There were 254 (42.4%) returned and usable surveys. Factor analysis yielded two domains, a seven-item, positively worded internal (α = 0.819) and an eight-item, negatively worded external domain (α = 0.811). Both domains were positively correlated with the monitoring domain of the Behavioral Pharmaceutical Care Scale supporting convergent validity. Overall, respondents had a positive internal monitoring attitude with a mean of 4.62 (0.68), although many practiced in an environment less conducive to monitoring, as evident by a mean of 3.13 (0.88). Pharmacists were more oriented towards medication side effect and effectiveness monitoring than nonadherence monitoring.

Conclusions

The mixed methods item development process created a reliable and valid measure of a pharmacist's medication monitoring attitude. While pharmacists had an overall positive medication monitoring attitude, improvements are needed to bolster adherence monitoring and make pharmacy environments more conducive to monitoring.
Transvesicoscopic ureteral reimplantation: Politano–Leadbetter versus Cohen technique
Authors: Soh Shigehiro , Kobori Yoshitomo , Shin Takeshi , Suzuki Keisuke , Iwahata Toshiyuki , Sadaoka Yuko , Sato Ryo , Nishi Morihiro , Iwamura Masatsugu , Okada Hiroshi
Published: March 2015

Objectives

To compare the outcomes of the Politano–Leadbetter and Cohen techniques in laparoscopic pneumovesicum approach for ureteral reimplantation.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 24 patients who underwent transvesicoscopic ureteral reimplantation during the period from 2007 to 2014. The patients were treated with either the Cohen or Politano–Leadbetter technique. Operative duration, duration of hospital stay, and success and complication rates were compared.

Results

Operative duration was 1 h longer for the Politano–Leadbetter technique than for the Cohen technique (P < 0.05). Foley catheters were removed 2–3 days after the procedures. The mean hospital stay was 3.6 days. Reflux completely resolved in 21 patients (35 ureters, 94.6%), but not in two patients (2 ureters). There was no difference in the success rate or durations of catheterization or hospital stay between patients treated with the Politano–Leadbetter technique and those treated with the Cohen technique.

Conclusions

The Politano–Leadbetter and Cohen techniques are both reliable for transvesicoscopic ureteral reimplantation. Despite a longer operative time, because of the higher surgical complexity, the Politano–Leadbetter ureteral reimplantation offers important physiological advantages over other techniques.
A Missed Opportunity for Clarity: Problems in the Reporting of Effect Size Estimates in Infant Developmental Science
Authors: Mills‐Smith Laura , Spangler Derek P. , Panneton Robin , Fritz Matthew S.
Published: March 2015

Several years ago, the American Psychological Association began requiring that effect size estimates be reported to provide a better indication of the associative strength between factors and dependent measures in empirical studies (Publication manual of the American Psychological Association, 2010, Author, Washington, DC). Accordingly, developmental journals require/strongly recommend effect size estimates be included in published work. Potentially, this trend has important benefits for infancy research given some of the inherent difficulties in establishing conceptually strong findings when often facing highly variable performance in typically small samples. This study examined recent infant research from select journals for accuracy and interpretative value of effect size estimates. Demographics, sample size, design, and statistical data were coded from 158 published (2007–2012) articles presenting 878 effect size estimates from experimental findings with infants using behavioral methods. Descriptive and distribution statistics were calculated for the following variables: (1) statistical tests, (2) effect size parameters, and (3) effect size interpretations. Although partial eta squared () and eta squared (η2) were most common (49 and 42%, respectively), “η confusion” was apparent, and interpretation of effect size estimates was virtually nonexistent. Thus, effect size estimates are not impacting infant development research in spite of criticisms of sole dependence on null hypothesis (e.g. American Psychologist, 49, 1994 and 997). Suggestions for increasing accuracy of effect size estimate selection and interpretative effect size estimate cutoffs are offered to improve empirical clarity.
Promotion or marketing of the nursing profession by nurses
Authors: Kagan I. , Biran E. , Telem L. , Steinovitz N. , Alboer D. , Ovadia K.L. , Melnikov S.
Published: March 2015

Background

In recent years, much effort has been invested all over the world in nurse recruitment and retention. Issues arising in this context are low job satisfaction, the poor public image of nursing and the reluctance of nurses to promote or market their profession.

Aim

This study aimed to examine factors explaining the marketing of the nursing profession by nurses working at a general tertiary medical centre in Israel.

Method

One hundred sixty‐nine registered nurses and midwives from five clinical care units completed a structured self‐administered questionnaire, measuring (a) professional self‐image, (b) job satisfaction, (c) nursing promotional and marketing activity questionnaire, and (d) demographic data.

Results

The mean scores for the promotion of nursing were low. Nurses working in an intensive cardiac care unit demonstrated higher levels of promotional behaviour than nurses from other nursing wards in our study. Nurse managers reported higher levels of nursing promotion activity compared with first‐line staff nurses. There was a strong significant correlation between job satisfaction and marketing behaviour. Multiple regression analysis shows that 15% of the variance of promoting the nursing profession was explained by job satisfaction and job position.

Conclusion

Nurses are not inclined to promote or market their profession to the public or to other professions. The policy on the marketing of nursing is inadequate.

Implications for nursing or health policy

A three‐level (individual, organizational and national) nursing marketing programme is proposed for implementation by nurse leadership and policy makers. Among proposed steps to improve marketing of the nursing profession are promotion of the image of nursing by the individual nurse in the course of her or his daily activities, formulation and implementation of policies and programmes to promote the image of nursing at the organizational level and drawing up of a long‐term programme for promoting or marketing the professional status of nursing at the national level.
The Constraints of Distance and Poverty on Institutional Deliveries in Pakistan: Evidence from Georeference‐Linked Data
Authors: Jain Anrudh K. , Sathar Zeba A. , Haque Minhaj ul
Published: March 2015

While institutional deliveries in Pakistan have risen substantially over the last few years, the change has mainly occurred among the wealthy and those with access to services in urban areas. We assess the influence of economic and geographic access to health facilities on institutional deliveries by linking household survey data and georeferenced distance to facilities equipped to provide services for obstetric care in nine districts in Pakistan. Multilevel mixed‐effect logistic regression analyses show that the net effect of an increase in distance to a facility by 1 kilometer is to decrease the odds of an institutional delivery by 3 percent. In contrast, household wealth and availability of at least basic emergency care within 10 kilometers substantially increase the odds of an institutional delivery. These effects are more pronounced in rural areas than in urban areas. Disadvantages faced by poor rural women can be minimized by upgrading existing facilities at district and subdistrict levels to provide comprehensive emergency care and by facilitating transportation of poor rural women directly to these facilities when they experience life‐threatening complications of childbirth.
Integrating Population, Health, and Environment Programs with Contraceptive Distribution in Rural Ethiopia: A Qualitative Case Study
Authors: Gonsalves Lianne , Donovan Samuel E. , Ryan Victoria , Winch Peter J.
Published: March 2015

In rural Ethiopia, environmental degradation and a shortage of arable land impose a major toll on the population. Population, health, and environment (PHE) programs, such as that of the Ethio‐Wetlands and Natural Resources Association (EWNRA), have evolved to address these issues. This article examines the community‐based distribution (CBD) of family planning commodities in rural Ethiopia through EWNRA's large, multisectoral PHE program. Participants indicated that the integrated program encouraged acceptance of family planning and reduced geographic barriers to access. Through peer education and collaboration across government ministries, EWNRA leveraged integrated population–environment messages to garner support for its network of CBD providers. These integration strategies are a model for PHE programs worldwide, especially amid the global response to climate change. Because of the complex nature of PHE organizations, researchers often find it difficult to effectively document and evaluate their programs. With this in mind, we propose a framework to assess PHE integration.
Female Sex Workers' Experiences with Intended Pregnancy and Antenatal Care Services in Southern Tanzania
Authors: Beckham S. Wilson , Shembilu Catherine R. , Brahmbhatt Heena , Winch Peter J. , Beyrer Chris , Kerrigan Deanna L.
Published: March 2015

Understanding the pregnancy experiences of female sex workers (FSWs), especially in the context of high rates of HIV and sexually transmitted infections (STIs), is essential to tailoring services to meet their needs. This study explores FSWs' experiences with intended pregnancy and access to antenatal care and HIV testing in two regions of Tanzania. Thirty in‐depth interviews and three focus group discussions were conducted. FSWs sought to become pregnant to gain respect as mothers, to avoid stigma, and/or to solidify relationships, sometimes posing risks to their own and their partners' health. Pregnant FSWs generally sought antenatal care (ANC) services but rarely disclosed their occupation, complicating provision of appropriate care. Accessing ANC services presented particular challenges, with health care workers sometimes denying all clinic services to women who were not accompanied by husbands. Several participants reported being denied care until delivery. The difficulties participants reported in accessing health care services as both sex workers and unmarried women have potential social and health consequences in light of the high levels of HIV and STIs among FSWs in sub‐Saharan Africa.
Personal Beliefs and Professional Responsibilities: Ethiopian Midwives' Attitudes toward Providing Abortion Services after Legal Reform
Authors: Holcombe Sarah Jane , Berhe Aster , Cherie Amsale
Published: March 2015

In 2005, Ethiopia liberalized its abortion law and subsequently authorized midwives to offer abortion services. Using a 2013 survey of 188 midwives and 12 interviews with third‐year midwifery students, this cross‐sectional research examines midwives' attitudes toward abortion to understand their decisions about service provision. Most midwives were willing to provide abortion services. This willingness was positively and significantly related to clinical experience with abortion, but negatively and significantly related to religiosity, belief that providers have the right to refuse to provide services, and care of patients from periurban as opposed to rural areas. No significant relationship was found with perceptions of abortion stigma, years of work as a midwife, or knowledge of the law. Interview data suggest complex dynamics underlying midwives' willingness to offer services, including conflicts between professional norms and religious beliefs. Findings can inform Ethiopia's efforts to reduce maternal mortality through task‐shifting to midwives and can aid other countries that are confronting provider shortages and high levels of maternal mortality and morbidity, particularly due to unsafe abortion.
Antiegalitarians for affirmative action? When social dominance orientation is positively related to support for egalitarian social policies
Authors: Ho Geoffrey C. , Unzueta Miguel M.
Published: March 2015

Previous research has found that people high in social dominance orientation (i.e., antiegalitarians) generally oppose affirmative action policies. We propose that antiegalitarians may be less opposed to strong affirmative action policies because such policies may be perceived to ultimately strengthen racial hierarchies. Studies 1 and 2 demonstrate that antiegalitarian individuals are less opposed to affirmative action policies, as compared to egalitarian individuals, when such policies strongly weigh minority status in selection decisions. Study 3 provides evidence that antiegalitarians lessen their opposition to strong policies only when such policies are believed to enhance racial hierarchies through the recruitment of minorities that remain at the bottom of organizational hierarchies. Theoretical, political, and organizational implications are discussed.
Non‐invasive diagnosis of sweat gland dysplasia using optical coherence tomography and reflectance confocal microscopy in a family with anhidrotic ectodermal dysplasia (Christ–Siemens–Touraine syndrome)
Authors: Reinholz M. , Gauglitz G.G. , Giehl K. , Braun‐Falco M. , Schwaiger H. , Schauber J. , Ruzicka T. , Berneburg M. , von Braunmühl T.
Published: March 2015

Background

Anhidrotic ectodermal dysplasia (AED) is an inherited syndrome, which originates mainly from genetic alteration of the ectodysplasin A (EDA) gene. It regularly affects the adnexa of the skin which results in a characteristic phenotype of the patients including hypo‐ or anhidrosis leading to severe disturbances in the regulation of body temperature.

Objectives

To prevent the development of the symptoms in early childhood promising therapeutic approaches are currently under clinical investigation. In this context, timely diagnosis of this genetic syndrome is crucial. The purpose of our study was the investigation of modern non‐invasive imaging methods such as optical coherence tomography (OCT) and reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM) in the immediate diagnosis of AED.

Methods

We examined a 3‐year‐old boy with the suspicion for an AED syndrome and his family members with RCM and OCT to document presence and characteristic features of sweat glands in comparison to non‐affected individuals.

Results

The patient and the affected brother showed significantly reduced sweat glands in the imaging compared to the controls. The genetic analysis revealed a mutation of the EDA gene for hemizygosity previously associated with AED and the mother was revealed as the conductor of the genetic alteration.

Conclusions

With the help of non‐invasive imaging, we were able to detect sweat gland dysplasia in the affected family members without performing a biopsy which led us to the diagnosis of an AED. The application of modern dermatological imaging techniques might serve as valuable supplementary tools in the immediate, non‐invasive diagnosis of genetic syndromes especially in newborns when early therapeutic approaches are planned.
Modelling psychiatric disability
Authors: Guidry‐Grimes Laura
Published: March 2015

Rationale, aims and objectives

There has been inadequate philosophical attention to the claims of psychiatric user/survivor activist groups, although these groups represent a significant social justice movement. Many of the core concerns and claims emerging from this activism can be found in disability activism. A first step that must be taken is to question how mental illnesses are modelled. Biomedical modelling is heavily criticized by psychiatric users/survivors for being reductionistic and for perpetuating damaging presumptions about decline and pathology. Social constructionist modelling, on the other hand, tends to be overly dismissive of biological factors that are often at play with these sorts of impairments. A middle‐ground approach, interactionist modelling, promises to be responsive to demands for recognition from psychiatric users/survivors.

Method

I will first outline the core commitments of psychiatric users/survivors. Next, I will evaluate different models for mental illness by bringing together insights from user/survivor and disability activism.

Conclusions

I conclude that interactionist modelling holds the best hope for supporting shared decision making. This type of model braids together the expertise of patients and medical professionals.