bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
What’s so funny ‘bout applied mathematics? Modelling, theory, and methods
Authors: Goriely Alain
Published: February 2018

What is applied mathematics and how is it different from mathematics or any other scientific discipline? ‘What’s so funny ‘bout applied mathematics? Modelling, theory, and methods’ argues that applied mathematics includes the modelling of natural phenomena and human endeavours, the study of mathematical ideas originating from these models, and the systematic development of theoretical and computational tools to probe models, handle data, and gain insight into any problem that has been properly quantified. Applied mathematics is best characterized by three intertwined areas: modelling, theory, and methods. Any work in applied mathematics fits in one of these three categories or combines them judiciously.
Can you picture that? X‐rays, DNA, and photos
Authors: Goriely Alain
Published: February 2018

Applied mathematics is also concerned with the manipulation and analysis of signals and data. In our digital world, where huge amounts of data are routinely collected, transmitted, processed, analysed, compressed, encrypted, decrypted, and stored, efficient mathematical methods and numerical algorithms are needed. ‘Can you picture that? X-rays, DNA, and photos’ outlines how applied mathematics is used to extract information from this data using the examples of computed tomography, X-ray crystallography, and the compression of digital image files. Modern developments have seen the discovery of new methods to extract information and process it efficiently. Examples are the theory of wavelets and compressed sensing, which has been implemented in Magnetic Resonance Imaging scanners.
1. What is the philosophy of religion?
Authors: Bayne Tim
Published: February 2018

Philosophy of religion is concerned with philosophical questions prompted by religious faith and experience. Some of these questions concern religion generally; others concern particular families of religion; and some concern particular religious traditions. ‘What is the philosophy of religion?’ explains how there is an intimate relationship between philosophy of religion and theology, but that the nature and location of the border between them is of some dispute. Some religions, such as Buddhism, Hinduism, and Taoism, embrace philosophical reflection, whereas the Abrahamic religions—Judaism, Christianity, and Islam—contain very little in the way of explicit philosophical reflection. Despite this, numerous Abrahamic philosophers have made important contributions to the philosophy of religion.
4. Divine hiddenness and the nature of faith
Authors: Bayne Tim
Published: February 2018

Assuming—as theists invariably do—that God wants to be recognized and worshipped, why does God not make Godself manifest? Perhaps God is ‘silent’ because God doesn’t exist. ‘Divine hiddenness and the nature of faith’ considers both the hiddenness objection and the benefits of divine hiddenness: that divine hiddenness is a precondition for moral agency; that if God’s existence were evident to us then any relationship that we might have with God would be inauthentic; and that belief in God is more virtuous when it is based on faith. It also discusses the thoughts of W.K. Clifford, William James, and Søren Kierkegaard on religious belief.
7. Speaking of God
Authors: Bayne Tim
Published: February 2018

Language plays many roles in religious thought and practice, but philosophers of religion are most interested in the doctrinal uses of language. ‘Speaking of God’ considers both realism and anti-realism—which is favoured by some theorists—and their plausibility. One of the most influential versions of anti-realism construes religious utterances as expressions of emotional states or attitudes. One motivation for anti-realism derives from the verificationist theory of meaning, but this has few contemporary advocates. The different names of God are also discussed with the two main accounts of how names refer: descriptivism and the causal view. Finally, two accounts of religious predication are outlined: the univocal and analogical accounts.
8. The afterlife
Authors: Bayne Tim
Published: February 2018

Speculation on the nature of the afterlife is as old as recorded history. Although the doctrine of an afterlife is not found in all religious traditions, where it does, it is typically central to the religious belief and practice. But is the idea of an afterlife intelligible? ‘The afterlife’ considers substance dualism, a concept popular throughout the history of religious thought, but no longer favoured by contemporary philosophers of religion. It also discusses three resurrection models: the reassembly, body-snatchers, and falling elevator models. In addition to asking whether life after death is a possible state for creatures like us, it also asks whether we should even want to live forever.
Veterinary Science: A Very Short Introduction
Authors: Yeates James
Published: February 2018

Every year billions of animals are treated by veterinarians. Veterinary Science: A Very Short Introduction introduces the field of veterinary science, covering the history of its scientific and clinical aspects from early practices to recent challenges such as the BSE outbreak and antibiotic resistance, and considering the differences between human medicine and veterinary medicine. Analysing the key roles played by diagnosis, treatment, and prevention with regard to the health of farm animals and pets, it relates this to wider aspects concerning public health. It also discusses the challenges for the future of veterinary science, including ethical dilemmas in balancing the interests of owners and animals when they do not coincide.
3. Making illnesses better
Authors: Yeates James
Published: February 2018

An obvious part of veterinary science is about making animals better when they are ill, injured, or disabled. ‘Making illnesses better’ explains the processes involved in identifying what is wrong with an animal: initial observations and discussions with the owner and further tests, such as X-rays, ultrasound, and biological and chemical investigations. Veterinary treatments tend to belong to four broad methods: drugs, surgery, advice to change how patients are cared for, and euthanasia to prevent suffering where other treatments are not sufficiently likely to be beneficial. Multiple treatments are often combined in the care for each patient. However, treatments can often come with risks of unintended side-effects.
Epilogue: the future of veterinary medicine
Authors: Yeates James
Published: February 2018

A primary veterinary aim is to help ill and suffering non-human animals. But veterinary science is essential in protecting the health, growth, function, resilience, and well-being of all species, ecosystems, economies, societies, and the environment. It can repair damage done by diseases and human activity. It can tackle old and new diseases as they appear, and prevent some from happening at all. The ‘Epilogue’ concludes that the future for veterinary science is bright. Increasingly, veterinary science will inform and integrate with other areas of scientific research. As well as human medicine and ecology, it will combine with animal science, agronomics, nutritional science, business science, economics, sociology, anthropology, meteorology, and climatology.
1. What is organized crime?
Authors: Antonopoulos Georgios A. , Papanicolaou Georgios
Published: February 2018

Organized crime seems a tangible, inescapable issue in today’s world, but despite some agreement on its characteristics, there is no uncontested definition of it. ‘What is organized crime?’ explains that despite ‘organized crime’ being a recent term, the illicit activities it includes have occurred regularly throughout history in various geographical contexts and economic, social, and political conditions. Social scientists focus on three different features of organized crime: that it consists of a collectivity/association; that it can be understood as criminal business, aimed at financial gain; and that it can be understood as an accumulation and use of power akin to that of a government.
4. Controlling and preventing organized crime
Authors: Antonopoulos Georgios A. , Papanicolaou Georgios
Published: February 2018

‘Controlling and preventing organized crime’ discusses the types of policy and law enforcement approaches intended to address organized crime as an issue. The US became the first country to develop a comprehensive and wide-ranging response to the phenomenon of ‘organized crime’. Legislation introduced in the late 1960s gave prosecutors a new model based on patterns of criminal activity rather than specific offences. Alongside the new tools for prosecuting criminal groups, it increased the severity of sanctions against them. The US approach became the model for other countries. With organized crime being seen as an international issue new organizations have appeared to address it. But can organized crime ever be prevented?
5. Business as usual
Authors: Antonopoulos Georgios A. , Papanicolaou Georgios
Published: February 2018

‘Business as usual’ brings together and evaluates the different aspects of organized crime considered so far. The idea that organized crime is a socially constructed phenomenon reflects the reality of a variety of institutions and everyday life experiences, and views of these are an inherent part of the process of defining and addressing it. When the openness, fluidity, and opportunism that characterize illicit markets dictating the forms of participation and association actors may adopt in them are considered, it is astounding that within a period of approximately fifty years a formidable institutional, legislative, and investigative armoury has been constructed and has proliferated internationally to address the threat of organized crime.
A stage-based estimator of daily egg production
Authors: McGarvey Richard , Steer Mike A , Matthews Janet M , Ward Tim M
Published: February 2018

Snapper (Chrysophrys auratus) in South Australia spawn over a wide range of daily times and hatch in ∼1.5 d. Traditional estimates of daily egg production (i) divide sampled eggs into daily age cohorts, e.g. days 1 and 2, (ii) compute cohort ages by assuming that all spawning occurs at a fixed daily peak hour, and (iii) link the estimation of spawning egg density with egg mortality rate by regressing cohort egg densities against cohort age. We propose a method for estimating daily egg production, the number of eggs spawned per unit area per day (P0), without these assumptions. We use a range of estimates of snapper egg mortality rate obtained from prior studies to backcorrect for egg mortality to the age 0 spawning egg density for each stage of eggs individually rather than aggregating into daily cohorts. P0 is estimated as a mean of sample tow densities rather than as a regression intercept. This stage-based P0 estimator avoids errors associated with assuming a fixed daily spawning hour and classifying eggs into day 1 or 2. It requires no regressions of sampled daily cohort egg densities against age, which often provide imprecise estimates of mortality rates. Simulation testing showed 1–2% accuracy for this estimator of P0. The uncertainty of assuming egg mortality rates is moderated by the insensitivity of estimates of P0 to the input value of egg mortality rate.
Stereotactic Radiosurgery for Intracranial Ependymomas: An International Multicenter Study
Authors: Kano Hideyuki , Su Yan-Hua , Wu Hsiu-Mei , Simonova Gabriela , Liscak Roman , Cohen-Inbar Or , Sheehan Jason P , Meola Antonio , Sharma Mayur , Barnett Gene H , Mathieu David , Vasas Lucas T , Kaufmann Anthony M , Jacobs Rachel C , Lunsford L Dade
Published: February 2018

BACKGROUND

Stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) is a potentially important option for intracranial ependymoma patients.

OBJECTIVE

To analyze the outcomes of intracranial ependymoma patients who underwent SRS as a part of multimodality management.

METHODS

Seven centers participating in the International Gamma Knife Research Foundation identified 89 intracranial ependymoma patients who underwent SRS (113 tumors). The median patient age was 16.3 yr (2.9-80). All patients underwent previous surgical resection and radiation therapy (RT) of their ependymomas and 40 underwent previous chemotherapy. Grade 2 ependymomas were present in 42 patients (52 tumors) and grade 3 ependymomas in 48 patients (61 tumors). The median tumor volume was 2.2 cc (0.03-36.8) and the median margin dose was 15 Gy (9-24).

RESULTS

Forty-seven (53%) patients were alive and 42 (47%) patients died at the last follow-up. The overall survival after SRS was 86% at 1 yr, 50% at 3 yr, and 44% at 5 yr. Smaller total tumor volume was associated with longer overall survival (P = .006). Twenty-two patients (grade 2: n = 9, grade 3: n = 13) developed additional recurrent ependymomas in the craniospinal axis. The progression-free survival after SRS was 71% at 1 yr, 56% at 3 yr, and 48% at 5 yr. Adult age, female sex, and smaller tumor volume indicated significantly better progression-free survival. Symptomatic adverse radiation effects were seen in 7 patients (8%).

CONCLUSION

SRS provides another management option for residual or recurrent progressive intracranial ependymoma patients who have failed initial surgery and RT.
Use of Patient-Related Outcomes After Orthopaedic Trauma: Helpful or Not So Much?
Authors: Obremskey William T. , Higgins Thomas F. , Bettger Janet Pryu , Vrahas Mark S. , Lundy Douglas W.
Published: February 2018

Over 100 years ago, the orthopaedic surgeon, Ernest Codman, recommended that surgeons and hospitals be paid by the “end result.” Healthcare Reform is moving to value over volume, and patient-reported outcomes (PROs) are 1 measure of quality and outcomes that are becoming pervasive. In this study, the current status of patient-reported outcomes and their use in orthopaedic trauma was reviewed. The contributors presented the state of PRO measurements at the Basic Science Focus Forum at the OTA Annual Meeting in 2016. Information on the currently available PROs was presented and analyzed to determine whether they were adequate for research in orthopaedic trauma. PROs were then discussed in the context of which were the most appropriate for determining outcomes in trauma surgery. The concept of mobility as a validated PRO for an assessment of general health was then presented. The final topic was a summary of how PROs will be used by insurers and governmental agencies. These topics provide a comprehensive overview of the current state of PROs in the context of orthopaedic trauma.
Depression is Closely Associated With Chronic Low Back Pain in Patients Over 50 Years of Age
Authors: Park Sang-Min , Kim Ho-Joong , Jang Seonpyo , Kim Hyoungmin , Chang Bong-Soon , Lee Choon-Ki , Yeom Jin S.
Published: February 2018

Study Design.

A cross-sectional study.

Objective.

This study was designed to analyze the relationship between the presence and severity of depression and low back pain (LBP) in a representative sample of the general population using a self-report screening questionnaire for depression.

Summary of Background Data.

There is increasing evidence supporting an association between depression and LBP. However, the degree of the association between these two conditions in the general population is poorly understood.

Methods.

Health surveys and examinations were conducted on a nationally representative sample (n = 7550) of Koreans. LBP status was determined by a simple survey response concerning LBP >30 days during the past 3 months. Depression was defined as individuals with a total score >10 on the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ)-9 survey. The severity of depression was categorized as none (0–4), mild (5–9), moderate (10–14), moderately severe (15–19), and severe (20–27) according to PHQ-9 score. Data regarding demographics, socioeconomic history, and comorbid health conditions were used to analyze adjusted, weighted logistic regression models.

Results.

In the Korean population, the prevalence of depression was significantly greater in individuals with LBP (20.3%) than in those without LBP (4.5%). On multivariate logistic regression analysis, the presence of depression was significantly associated with LBP (adjusted odd ratio [aOR]: 3.93, P < 0.001). The risk of LBP increased with increasing severity of depression as follows: severe depression (aOR: 9.28, P < 0.001), moderately severe depression (aOR: 3.24, P = 0.001), moderate depression (aOR: 4.97, P < 0.001), and mild depression (aOR: 2.48, P < 0.001).

Conclusion.

Depression is more common in patients with LBP among Koreans. The presence of depression was significantly associated with LBP, especially in severely depressed individuals.

Level of Evidence: 3
The Association Between Body Mass Index and the Prevalence, Severity, and Frequency of Low Back Pain
Authors: Su Charles A. , Kusin David J. , Li Samuel Q. , Ahn Uri M. , Ahn Nicholas U.
Published: February 2018

Study Design.

Cross-sectional study.

Objective.

To determine whether there is an association between body mass index (BMI) and the prevalence, severity, and frequency of low back pain and identify other potential patient risk factors for the development of low back pain.

Summary of Background Data.

Many studies have implicated that a high BMI is a risk factor for low back pain. However, few studies have examined the association between increased BMI and the prevalence, severity, and frequency of low back pain.

Methods.

Data from the Osteoarthritis Initiative, a multicenter, prospective study of knee osteoarthritis, were used to conduct this study, which included 4796 patients. BMI was categorized according to the World Health Organization classification and the prevalence, severity, and frequency of low back pain were assessed. Logistic regression was performed to identify additional patient risk factors associated with low back pain.

Results.

The prevalence of low back pain was found to be significantly higher in patients with an elevated BMI compared to those with normal or underweight BMI and demonstrated a stepwise increase with each BMI category. Approximately 47.4% of patients with normal or underweight BMI complained of low back pain compared with 72.8% of morbidly obese patients (P < 0.0001). No association was seen between BMI and the frequency or severity of low back pain episodes. Osteoarthritis of the back and depression were patient variables found to be associated with all three measures (prevalence, severity, and frequency) of low back pain.

Conclusion.

Elevated BMI is strongly associated with an increased prevalence of low back pain. Depression and osteoarthritis of the back are associated with the prevalence, severity, and frequency of low back pain.

Level of Evidence: 3
Outcomes of Surgical Decompression in Patients With Very Severe Degenerative Cervical Myelopathy
Authors: Kopjar Branko , Bohm Parker E. , Arnold Joshua H. , Fehlings Michael G. , Tetreault Lindsay A. , Arnold Paul M.
Published: February 2018

Study Design.

A prospective observational international study.

Objective.

The aim of this study was to evaluate outcomes of decompressive surgery in patients with very severe degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM).

Summary of Background Data.

Although decompressive surgery has been evidenced as a safe and effective approach for patients with myelopathic deficiencies, studies have suggested residual disability following treatment in patients with more severe disease presentation.

Methods.

Postoperative outcomes of 60 patients with very severe DCM (modified Japanese Orthopaedic Association [mJOA] score ≤8) were compared to outcomes of 188 patients with severe DCM (mJOA 9–11). Postimputation follow-up rate was 93.1%. Unadjusted and adjusted analyses were performed using two-way repeated measures of covariance.

Results.

The two cohorts were similar in demographics, length of duration of myelopathy symptoms, source of stenosis, and surgical approaches used to decompress the spine. The very severe and severe cohorts differed in preoperative Nurick grades (4.97 vs. 3.91, respectively, P < 0.0001) and Neck Disability Index scores (45.20 vs. 56.21, respectively, P = 0.0006). There were no differences in Short Form 36 (SF-36v2) physical (PCS) and mental (MCS) component summary scores. Both cohorts improved in mJOA, Nurick, Neck Disability Index, and SF-36v2 PCS and MCS scores. Despite the substantial postoperative improvements, patients in both cohorts had considerable residual symptoms. Two-thirds of the patients in the very severe cohort had severe (mJOA ≤11) or moderate (mJOA ≤ 14) myelopathy symptoms at 24 months follow-up. Longer duration of disease was associated with poorer treatment response.

Conclusion.

Decompressive surgery is effective in patients with very severe DCM; however, patients have significant residual symptoms and disability. The very severe subgroup (mJOA ≤8) of patients with DCM represents a distinct group of patients and their different clinical trajectory is important for clinicians and patients to recognize. Duration of symptoms negatively affects chances for recovery. Whenever possible, patients with DCM should be treated before developing very severe symptomatology.

Level of Evidence: 2
Bisphosphonate and Teriparatide Use in Thoracolumbar Spinal Fusion
Authors: Buerba Rafael A. , Sharma Akshay , Ziino Chason , Arzeno Alexander , Ajiboye Remi M.
Published: February 2018

Study Design.

Systematic review and meta-analysis.

Objective.

To compare the efficacy of the use of either bisphosphonates or teriparatide on radiographic and functional outcomes of patients that had thoracolumbar spinal fusion.

Summary of Background Data.

Controversy exists as to whether bisphosphonates interfere with successful spinal arthrodesis. An alternative osteoporosis medication is teriparatide, a synthetic parathyroid hormone that has an anabolic effect on osteoblast function. To date, there is limited comparative data on the influence of bisphosphonates or teriparatide on spinal fusion.

Methods.

A systematic search of medical reference databases was conducted for comparative studies on bisphosphonate or teriparatide use after thoracolumbar spinal fusion. Meta-analysis was performed using the random-effects model for heterogeneity. Radiographic outcomes assessed include fusion rates, risk of screw loosening, cage subsidence, and vertebral fracture.

Results.

No statistically significant differences were noted between bisphosphonates and control groups regarding fusion rate and risk of screw loosening (fusion: odds ratio [OR] = 2.2, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.87–5.56, P = 0.09; loosening: OR = 0.45, 95% CI: 0.14–1.48, P = 0.19). Teriparatide use was associated with higher fusion rates than bisphosphonates (OR = 2.3, 95% CI: 1.55–3.42, P < 0.0001). However, no statistically significant difference was noted between teriparatide and bisphosphonates regarding risk of screw loosening (OR = 0.37, 95% CI: 0.12–1.18, P = 0.09). Lastly, bisphosphonate use was associated with decreased odds of cage subsidence and vertebral fractures compared to controls (subsidence: OR = 0.29, 95% CI 0.11–0.75, P = 0.01; fracture: OR = 0.18, 95% CI 0.07–0.48, P = 0.0007).

Conclusion.

Bisphosphonates do not appear to impair successful spinal fusion compared to controls although teriparatide use is associated with higher fusion rates than bisphosphonates. In addition, bisphosphonate use is associated with decreased odds of cage subsidence and vertebral fractures compared to controls that had spinal fusion.

Level of Evidence: 3
Anatomical Feasibility of Extradural Transferring S2 and S3 Ventral Roots to S1 Ventral Root for Restoring Neurogenic Bladder in Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Yang Kaixiang , Chen Hongtao , Tang Jian , Ge Dawei , Zhang Sheng , Sui Tao , Cao Xiaojian
Published: February 2018

Study Design.

Anatomic study in six formalin-fixed cadavers.

Objective.

To determine the anatomical feasibility of transferring the S2 and S3 ventral roots (VRs) to S1 VR as a method for restoring bladder dysfunction in spinal cord injury.

Summary of Background Data.

A large quantity of researches of neuroanastomosis methods have been used for treating the bladder dysfunction in spinal cord injury. However, some limitations retard the development of those studies.

Methods.

In this study, six formalin-fixed cadavers (four males, two females) were dissected. The feasibility of exposing the S1, S2, and S3 extradural nerve roots by the limited laminectomy, isolating the VR and dorsal roots from each extradural nerve root and transferring the S2,S3 VRs to the S1 VR were assessed. The pertinent distances and the nerve cross-sectional areas in each specimen were measured. The morphology of each nerve root was observed by hematoxylin-eosin staining.

Results.

The limited laminectomy was performed to expose the S1 to S3 extradural nerve roots. The VRs could be isolated from each extradural nerve root at the location of the dorsal root ganglion and the hematoxylin-eosin staining showed that there were some connective tissues separating the VRs from the corresponding dorsal root ganglion. The S2 and S3 VRs have sufficient lengths to be transferred to S1 VR without grafting. The mean cross-sectional area of the S1 VR was 2.60 ± 0.17 mm2, and that was 1.02 ± 0.32 mm2 and 0.51 ± 0.21 mm2 of the S2 and S3 VRs, respectively.

Conclusion.

This study demonstrated that use of the S2 and S3 VRs for extradural transfer to S1 VR for restoring bladder dysfunction is surgically feasible.

Level of Evidence: 5
Angling Technique for Removal of a Broken Cannulated Intramedullary Nail: A Technical Note
Authors: Jain Gunjar , Nag Hira L. , Raje Amrut D. , Goyal Archit
Published: February 2018

Removal of a broken nail from long bones remains a tricky situation to deal with. We are reporting a new method for retrieval of broken nails, which is technically less demanding than other methods described in the literature. Our method is similar to angling, which is a method of fishing by means of a fishhook. In this method the broken nail is hooked under image guidance and retrieved in a retrograde manner by a nail-hook made from stainless steel wire. It removes the nail noninvasively as no further exposure is required after removal of the proximal part of the nail by traditional methods.
Index Case of Cutaneous Follicular Mycosis Fungoides With Central Nervous System Involvement and Review of Literature
Authors: Nguyen Giang Huong , Mohler Alexander , Leppert Michelle , Parra Cindy , Zeng Yue-Ping , Prok Lori , Schowinsky Jeffrey , Magro Cynthia M. , Pacheco Theresa , Ney Douglas
Published: February 2018

Central nervous system involvement by mycosis fungoides (MF) is rare and is usually seen in advanced stages of the disease. We describe a patient with early-stage follicular MF who presented with changes in mental status. Despite an initial diagnosis of vasculitis based on clinical and brain biopsy results, the postmortem examination revealed extensive infiltration of MF cells throughout the brain with leptomeningeal involvement. This case in addition to the accompanied review of literature illustrates the importance of the awareness of central nervous system involvement by MF and highlights the need for an urgent neurologic evaluation in patients with a history of MF now presenting with neurologic signs or symptoms.
Asymmetric price responses to stock addition to and deletion from the Athens Stock Exchange Index
Authors: Papachristou George , Papadamou Stephanos , Spyromitros Eleftherios
Published: February 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the response of investors to the announcements on the inclusion and exclusion of companies from the FTSE-ASE 20 index.

Design/methodology/approach

Data on the inclusion and exclusion of companies from the FTSE-ASE 20 index in the period 2000-2012 were used. The authors performed an event study analysis using a constant return model and a market model. Two different measures of aggregated abnormal returns, namely the cumulating abnormal returns and the buy-and-hold abnormal return, were used in this investigation.

Findings

The results suggest that the exclusion of a company from the index has a significant negative effect on stock returns. Specifically, such a stock takes more than 15 days to recover. However, for a company’s inclusion in the index, the authors observe short-lived positive reactions on stock returns.

Practical implications

Capital market regulators and investors should find the policy implications of this paper meaningful. Investment strategies can be implemented on the basis of the news of exclusion from the index, which can lead to higher performance for investors. As far as authorities are concerned, the decision of inclusion and exclusion to the most significant stock index in the Greek market should be carefully considered because it creates financial instability for a significant time period.

Originality/value

By using a battery of parametric and non-parametric econometric tests, the existence of abnormal returns of the FTSE-ASE 20 index is explored over a long time period, including the recent financial crisis.
How to reduce turnover intention in team sports? Effect of organizational support on turnover intention of professional team sports athletes
Authors: Ströbel Tim , Maier Christopher , Woratschek Herbert
Published: February 2018

Purpose

Turnover of employees is a key challenge for companies. The same is true for sports clubs that must set appropriate incentives to decrease their athletes’ turnover intention. As salary caps and team budgets restrict monetary incentives, the purpose of this paper is to investigate the effect of organizational support on turnover intention of professional team sports athletes.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper applies a combined approach of qualitative and quantitative research and considers the specific requirements of European professional team sports. First, a qualitative study investigates organizational support in team sports and identifies relevant non-monetary incentives. Second, a quantitative study tests the effects of the identified organizational support incentives on turnover intention using a unique data set of professional team sports athletes. Third, a moderation analysis measures possible effects of age.

Findings

Through the qualitative study, three relevant non-monetary incentives could be identified in the context of professional team sports: integration of family (IOF), second career support, and private problem support. The subsequent quantitative study of football, ice hockey and handball athletes assesses the effectiveness of the identified incentives. All three incentives negatively influence athletes’ turnover intention, while IOF has a substantially stronger negative effect on turnover intention for younger athletes.

Originality/value

The findings indicate the importance of organizational support to decrease athletes’ turnover intention. Although money is relevant, sports clubs also need to address non-monetary incentives to decrease their athletes’ turnover intention.
The anticlostridial effect of lactococcal and enterococcal adjunct starters in Dutch‐type low‐scalded cheese
Authors: Havlíková Šárka , Kvasničková Eva , Kavková Miloslava , Němečková Irena
Published: February 2018

Lactococcal and enterococcal adjuncts with verified anticlostridial activity were successfully applied in the technology process of Dutch‐type low‐scalded cheese. The microbial status of experimental cheeses, physicochemical parameters and late blowing defects were evaluated for batches inoculated with Clostridium tyrobutyricum, and compared with noninoculated controls and the application of nisin. Two strains (CCDM 731 and CCDM 71) belonging to the species Lactococcus lactis subsp. lactis had significant anticlostridial effects which were comparable to nisin. Regardless of the noneffective enterococci adjunct, both lactococcal strains effectively supported the fermentation and ripening process in combination with the commercial starter itself or in combination with nisin.
First draft genome of an iconic clownfish species (Amphiprion frenatus)
Authors: Marcionetti Anna , Rossier Victor , Bertrand Joris A. M. , Litsios Glenn , Salamin Nicolas
Published: February 2018

Clownfishes (or anemonefishes) form an iconic group of coral reef fishes, principally known for their mutualistic interaction with sea anemones. They are characterized by particular life history traits, such as a complex social structure and mating system involving sequential hermaphroditism, coupled with an exceptionally long lifespan. Additionally, clownfishes are considered to be one of the rare groups to have experienced an adaptive radiation in the marine environment. Here, we assembled and annotated the first genome of a clownfish species, the tomato clownfish (Amphiprion frenatus). We obtained 17,801 assembled scaffolds, containing a total of 26,917 genes. The completeness of the assembly and annotation was satisfying, with 96.5% of the Actinopterygii Benchmarking Universal Single‐Copy Orthologs (BUSCOs) being retrieved in A. frenatus assembly. The quality of the resulting assembly is comparable to other bony fish assemblies. This resource is valuable for advancing studies of the particular life history traits of clownfishes, as well as being useful for population genetic studies and the development of new phylogenetic markers. It will also open the way to comparative genomics. Indeed, future genomic comparison among closely related fishes may provide means to identify genes related to the unique adaptations to different sea anemone hosts, as well as better characterize the genomic signatures of an adaptive radiation.
Aging impacts CD103+CD8+ T cell presence and induction by dendritic cells in the genital tract
Authors: Rodriguez‐Garcia Marta , Fortier Jared M. , Barr Fiona D. , Wira Charles R.
Published: February 2018

As women age, susceptibility to systemic and genital infections increases. Tissue‐resident memory T cells (TRMs) are CD103+CD8+ long‐lived lymphocytes that provide critical mucosal immune protection. Mucosal dendritic cells (DCs) are known to induce CD103 expression on CD8+ T cells. While CD103+CD8+ T cells are found throughout the female reproductive tract (FRT), the extent to which aging impacts their presence and induction by DCs remains unknown. Using hysterectomy tissues, we found that endometrial CD103+CD8+ T cells were increased in postmenopausal compared to premenopausal women. Endometrial DCs from postmenopausal women were significantly more effective at inducing CD103 expression on allogeneic naïve CD8+ T cells than DCs from premenopausal women; CD103 upregulation was mediated through membrane‐bound TGFβ signaling. In contrast, cervical CD103+ T cells and DC numbers declined in postmenopausal women with age. Decreases in DCs correlated with decreased CD103+ T cells in endocervix, but not ectocervix. Our findings demonstrate a previously unrecognized compartmentalization of TRMs in the FRT of postmenopausal women, with loss of TRMs and DCs in the cervix with aging, and increased TRMs and DC induction capacity in the endometrium. These findings are relevant to understanding immune protection in the FRT and to the design of vaccines for women of all ages.
Accuracy of point‐of‐care HbA1c testing in pregnant women
Authors: Culliney Katherine , McCowan Lesley M.E. , Okesene‐Gafa Karaponi , Murphy Rinki , Rowan Janet , Taylor Rennae S. , Mckinlay Christopher J.D. ,   the HUMBA Study Group
Published: February 2018

Background

In New Zealand, it is recommended that all pregnant women have a haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) test performed with their booking antenatal bloods to identify previously unrecognised diabetes. However, screening rates in some groups are low. Use of a point‐of‐care device may improve compliance with screening.

Aim

To assess the accuracy of the COBAS b101 point‐of‐care system referenced against a laboratory method, for measurement of HbA1c levels in pregnant women.

Materials and methods

Convenience sample of 40 obese pregnant women enrolled in a clinical trial. HbA1c was assayed in paired capillary and venous whole blood samples using the COBAS b101 point‐of‐care system and Primus Ultra2 high performance liquid chromatography laboratory analyser, respectively. The accuracy of the point‐of‐care system was assessed by Bland–Altman analysis.

Results

The mean (SD) laboratory HbA1c was 35.9 (2.0) mmol/mol. The COBAS b101 point‐of‐care system, compared with the laboratory reference method, had a small negative bias for HbA1c (−1.0 mmol/mol, 95% CI −2.0 to −0.03, P = 0.03) and relatively wide 95% limits of agreement (−7.2 to 5.1 mmol/mol).

Conclusion

In conclusion, we found that in pregnancy, the COBAS b101 point‐of‐care system has a small negative bias and modest point accuracy for HbA1c. When used to screen for previously unrecognised diabetes in pregnancy, appropriate COBAS b101 HbA1c point‐of‐care HbA1c thresholds for a negative and positive result are 7 mmol/mol below and 5 mmol/mol above the clinical threshold, respectively. Values between these limits should be confirmed by laboratory testing.
One‐year longitudinal study found a bidirectional relationship between physical activity and sleep disturbance in teenage Estonian girls
Authors: Raudsepp L
Published: February 2018

Aim

Studies have shown that physical activity (PA) declines during adolescence, especially among girls. We examined the relationship between changes in PA and sleep disturbance over the school year, including any bidirectional relationship between these two factors.

Methods

This longitudinal study focused on teenage girls who had a mean age of 13.2 ± 0.2 years at baseline and were drawn from five randomly selected schools in the city of Tartu, Estonia. Sleep disturbance and PA were subjectively assessed using the self‐reported 3‐Day Physical Activity Recall and the Insomnia Severity Index, at four intervals throughout the school year. Latent growth curve analyses were used to evaluate longitudinal and bidirectional associations between PA and sleep disturbance.

Results

Assessments were carried out at three‐monthly intervals from September 2015 to June 2016. Sleep disturbance increased and PA decreased over the school year. At baseline, higher PA was related to lower sleep disturbance. Changes in PA corresponded with changes in sleep disturbance. A negative bidirectional relationship between sleep disturbance and PA over time was also found.

Conclusion

These results suggest that increasing PA may be an effective strategy for improving the quality of sleep in girls during early adolescence.
Comparative cardiovascular safety of nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs in patients with hypertension: a population‐based cohort study
Authors: Dong Yaa‐Hui , Chang Chia‐Hsuin , Wu Li‐Chiu , Hwang Jing‐Shiang , Toh Sengwee
Published: February 2018

Aims

Previous studies have suggested that nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may be associated with higher cardiovascular risks. However, few have been active comparison studies that directly assessed the potential differential cardiovascular risk between NSAID classes or across individual NSAIDs. We compared the risk of major cardiovascular events between cyclooxygenase 2 (COX‐2)‐selective and nonselective NSAIDs in patients with hypertension.

Methods

We conducted a cohort study of patients with hypertension who initiated COX‐2‐selective or nonselective NSAIDs in a population‐based Taiwanese database. The outcomes included hospitalization for the following major cardiovascular events: ischaemic stroke, acute myocardial infarction, congestive heart failure, transient ischaemic attack, unstable angina or coronary revascularization. We followed patients for up to 4 weeks, based on the as‐treated principle. We used inverse probability weighting to control for baseline and time‐varying covariates, and estimated the on‐treatment hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% conservative confidence interval (CIs).

Results

We identified 2749 eligible COX‐2‐selective NSAID users and 52 880 eligible nonselective NSAID users. The HR of major cardiovascular events comparing COX‐2‐selective with nonselective NSAIDs after adjusting for baseline and time‐varying covariates was 1.07 (95% CI 0.65, 1.74). We did not observe a differential risk when comparing celecoxib to diclofenac (HR 1.17; 95% CI 0.61, 2.25), ibuprofen (HR 1.36; 95% CI 0.58, 3.18) or naproxen (HR 0.75; 95% CI 0.23, 2.44). There was an increased risk with COX‐2‐selective NSAIDs, however, when comparing COX‐2‐selective NSAIDs with mefenamic acid (HR 2.11; 95% CI 1.09, 4.09).

Conclusions

Our results provide important information about the comparative cardiovascular safety of NSAIDs in patients with hypertension.
Physiologically‐based pharmacokinetic modelling of a CYP2C19 substrate, BMS‐823778, utilizing pharmacogenetic data
Authors: Gong Jiachang , Iacono Lisa , Iyer Ramaswamy A. , Humphreys William G. , Zheng Ming
Published: February 2018

Aims

Previous studies demonstrated direct correlation between CYP2C19 genotype and BMS‐823778 clearance in healthy volunteers. The objective of the present study was to develop a physiologically‐based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) model for BMS‐823778 and use the model to predict PK and drug–drug interaction (DDI) in virtual populations with multiple polymorphic genes.

Methods

The PBPK model was built and verified using existing clinical data. The verified model was simulated to predict PK of BMS‐823778 and significance of DDI with a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor in subjects with various CYP2C19 and UGT1A4 genotypes.

Results

The verified PBPK model of BMS‐823778 accurately recovered observed PK in different populations. In addition, the model was able to capture the exposure differences between subjects with different CYP2C19 genotypes. PK simulation indicated higher exposures of BMS‐823778 in CYP2C19 poor metabolizers who were also devoid of UGT1A4 activity, compared to those with normal UGT1A4 functionality. Moderate DDI with itraconazole was predicted in subjects with wild‐type CYP2C19 or UGT1A4. However, in subjects without CYP2C19 or UGT1A4 functionality, significant DDI was predicted when BMS‐823778 was coadministered with itraconazole.

Conclusions

A PBPK model was developed using clinical data that accurately predicted human PK in different population with various CYP2C19 phenotypes. Simulations with the verified PBPK model indicated that UGT1A4 was probably an important clearance pathway in CYP2C19 poor metabolizers. DDI with itraconazole is likely to be dependent on the genotypes of CYP2C19 and UGT1A4.
Incorporation ofGSTA1genetic variations into a population pharmacokinetic model for IV busulfan in paediatric hematopoietic stem cell transplantation
Authors: Nava Tiago , Kassir Nastya , Rezgui Mohamed Aziz , Uppugunduri Chakradhara Rao Satyanarayana , Huezo‐Diaz Curtis Patricia , Duval Michel , Théoret Yves , Daudt Liane E. , Litalien Catherine , Ansari Marc , Krajinovic Maja , Bittencourt Henrique
Published: February 2018

Aims

The aim of this study is to develop a population pharmacokinetic (PopPK) model for intravenous busulfan in children that incorporates variants ofGSTA1, gene coding for the main enzyme in busulfan metabolism.

Methods

Busulfan concentration–time data was collected from 112 children and adolescents (median 5.4 years old, range: 0.1–20) who received intravenous busulfan during the conditioning regimen prior to stem cell transplantation. Weight, sex, baseline disease (malignantvs.non‐malignant), age, conditioning regimen andGSTA1diplotypes were evaluated as covariates of pharmacokinetic parameters by using nonlinear mixed effects analysis. The ability to achieve the target AUC24h(3600–6000 μM min−1) was assessed by estimating the first dose based on the present PopPK model and by comparing the results with other available models in children.

Results

A one‐compartment model with first‐order elimination best described the data. Allometric scaling of weight and a factor of busulfan metabolism maturation were included in the base model.GSTA1diplotypes were found to be a significant covariate of busulfan clearance, which was 7% faster in rapid metabolizers and 12% slower in poor metabolizers, in comparison with normal ones. Busulfan doses calculated using the parameters of the proposed PopPK model were estimated to achieve the target AUC in 85.2% of the cases (95% CI 78.7–91.7%).

Conclusion

This is the first PopPK for busulfan that successfully incorporatedGSTA1genotype in a paediatric population. Its use may contribute to better prediction of busulfan exposure in children and adolescents since the first dose, by tailoring the dose according to the individual metabolic capacity.
Tension‐free vaginal tape for treatment of pure urodynamic stress urinary incontinence: efficacy and adverse effects at 17‐year follow‐up
Authors: Braga Andrea , Caccia Giorgio , Sorice Paola , Cantaluppi Simona , Coluccia Anna Chiara , Di Dedda Maria Carmela , Regusci Luca , Ghezzi Fabio , Uccella Stefano , Serati Maurizio
Published: February 2018

Objective

To assess the efficacy and safety of retropubic tension‐free vaginal tape (TVT) 17 years after implantation for the treatment of female pure stress urinary incontinence (SUI).

Patients and Methods

A prospective study was conducted in two urogynaecological units in two countries. All consecutive women with urodynamically proven pure SUI treated by TVT were included. Patients with mixed incontinence and/or anatomical evidence of pelvic organ prolapse were excluded. Data regarding subjective outcomes (International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire–Short Form, Patient Global Impression of Improvement, and patient satisfaction scores), objective cure (stress test) rates, and adverse events were collected during follow‐up. Univariable analysis was performed to investigate outcomes.

Results

A total of 52 women underwent TVT implantation. At 17‐year follow‐up, 46 women (88.4%) were available for the evaluation. We did not find any significant change in surgical outcomes during this time. At 17 years after surgery, 41 of 46 women (89.1%) declared themselves cured (P = 0.98). Similarly, at 17‐year evaluation, 42 of 46 women (91.4%) were objectively cured. No significant deterioration in objective cure rates was observed over time (P for trend 0.50). The univariate analysis did not find any risk factor statistically associated with the recurrence of SUI. Of the 46 women, 15 (32.6%) reported the onset of de novo overactive bladder at 17‐year follow‐up. No other late complications were reported.

Conclusions

The 17‐year results of this study showed that TVT is a highly effective and safe option for the treatment of SUI.
Differential effects of oxycodone and venlafaxine on resting state functional connectivity—A randomized placebo‐controlled magnetic resonance imaging study
Authors: Hansen Tine M. , Lelic Dina , Olesen Anne E. , Drewes Asbjørn Mohr , Frøkjær Jens B.
Published: February 2018

Aim

Different mechanisms may be involved in the antinociceptive effects of oxycodone (opioid) and venlafaxine (serotonin‐norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor), and the aim of this study was to investigate the effect of these drugs on brain functional connectivity.

Methods

Resting state functional magnetic resonance imaging was acquired in 20 healthy volunteers before and after a 5‐day treatment with oxycodone, venlafaxine, or placebo in a randomized, double‐blind, crossover study. Functional connectivity analyses were performed between four predefined seeds (dorsal anterior cingulate cortex, rostral anterior cingulate cortex, posterior insula, and prefrontal cortex), and the whole brain.

Results

The overall interpretation was that there were differences between the effects of oxycodone and venlafaxine on functional connectivity. Oxycodone mainly showed decreased functional connectivity between limbic structures and to supralimbic areas (all P < 0.05). Venlafaxine also showed decreased functional connectivity between limbic structures and to supralimbic areas, but increased functional connectivity to structures in the midbrain and brain stem was also found (all P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Oxycodone and venlafaxine showed differential effects on resting‐state functional connectivity as compared to placebo. This supports that the two drugs exert different mechanisms, and that the drugs in combination may exert additive effects and could potentially improve pain therapy.