bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nursing Student Collaborative With Meals on Wheels: Home Visits for At-Risk Senior Adults
Authors: Campbell Susan , Berg Jill M.
Published: November 2017

Nursing students at Washington State University Tri-Cities Campus are taking part in a program to provide care for homebound senior adults enrolled in home delivery meal services. Students perform home safety, functional, and cognitive assessments while learning the challenges of meeting nutritional needs of an at-risk senior adult population. This article outlines the program and its outcomes after two years of collaboration. Meals on Wheels is identified as an innovative placement for meeting nursing program outcomes and clinical practice hours. Areas for future growth include interdisciplinary collaboratives and partnering with local hospitals to study the program’s impact on hospital readmission.
Establishing a Hybrid Wound and Ostomy Continuing Education Program
Authors: Wong Vivian K.
Published: November 2017

Wound and ostomy nurses receive specialty training and certification to provide care in abdominal stomas, ostomies, wounds, fistulas, and pressure injuries. The eight existing nationwide programs in 2011 were inadequate to meet increasing patient population demands. We developed an innovative nondegree, postbaccalaureate continuing wound and ostomy education program using a hybrid design. The program integrated interactive online classes with intensive onsite classes and skills training. The program has been granted seven-year accreditation; student evaluations have been positive.
Innovative Teaching for Undergraduate Nursing Students Through Mastery Modeling
Authors: Gordon Kathleen A. , Carmany Kelly E. , Baker Janet R. , Goliat Laura M.
Published: November 2017

Mastery modeling was implemented to support the transfer of classroom diabetes content to the clinical area. Interactive teaching methodologies that exemplified mastery modeling included scripted classroom video and vignettes, simulation-based learning experiences, and a worksheet relating to diabetes-specific groups to use in the clinical setting. When mastery modeling teaching methodologies were implemented, transfer of knowledge through clinical reasoning was noted at a higher level for the diabetes-specific groups over the standard groups.
Analysis of survival of patients treated with vemurafenib, ipilimumab and dabrafenib for advanced skin melanoma in daily clinical practice (Real-World Data): retrospective analysis of patients treated under drug/reimbursement programmes in Poland in 2013–2016
Authors: Brzozowska Melania , Wierzba Waldemar , Śliwczyński Andrzej , Świerkowski Marcin , Potemski Piotr , Marczak Michał
Published: November 2017

Vemurafenib, ipilimumab and dabrafenib were registered for the treatment of advanced skin melanoma pursuant to the results of randomized phase III clinical trials. Real-world data on survival time for patients treated with those drugs in daily clinical practice are so far limited. Patients with advanced skin melanoma treated under reimbursement programmes (drug programmes), for which they were qualified pursuant to uniform inclusion criteria in force in all oncology centres in Poland. Data were obtained from the electronic databases of the national payer (NFZ) responsible for the implementation and monitoring of reimbursement (drug) programmes. The analysis included all patients included for treatment with vemurafenib (since March of 2013), ipilimumab (since March of 2014) and dabrafenib (since July of 2015) until December 2016. The end date of the observation was set to 31 December 2016. The total survival analysis was performed using the Kaplan–Meier estimator. Until 31 December 2016, 759 patients were treated with vemurafenib, 370 with ipilimumab and 181 with dabrafenib. The overall survival (OS) median was 9.8 months for patients treated with vemurafenib (95% confidence interval: 8.8–10.6) and 6.9 months for patients treated with ipilimumab (95% confidence interval: 5.7–9.2). For patients treated with dabrafenib, the OS median was not reached because of an overly short observation period. The probability of surviving 12 months in the group of patients treated with vemurafenib was 40.5%, ipilimumab was 35.1% and dabrafenib was 60.7%. The probability of surviving 24 and 36 months in the group of patients treated with vemurafenib or ipilimumab amounted to, respectively, 20.1, 15.4 and 21, 18.8%. OS of patients with advanced melanoma treated in daily clinical practice may be comparable to the ones achieved in registration trials. The use of appropriate treatment inclusion criteria may affect the obtained OS.
Minimally invasive esophagectomy via Sweet approach in combination with cervical mediastinoscopy for esophageal squamous cell carcinoma: a case series
Authors: Wang Wenxiang , Zhang Baihua , Li Xu , Wu Jie , Wu Zhining , Ding Yan , Yang Desong , Tang Jinming , Su Min , Ma Junliang , You Xianman , Liang Jianping , Zhou Yong
Published: November 2017

Objective:

Minimally invasive esophagectomy (MIE) is increasingly used for the treatment of esophageal cancer. However, MIE via the Sweet approach has seldom been reported owing to the challenging procedure for a mediastinal lymph node. Thus, the approach of MIE via left-sided thoracoscopy coupled with video-assisted cervical mediastinoscopy (MIE-SM) was explored for eradicating the mediastinal lymph nodes and recurrent laryngeal nerve; the incidence of perioperative complications, mortality, and surgical radicality were analyzed.

Materials and Methods:

Thirty patients with esophageal carcinoma underwent MIE-SM between June 2014 and February 2016. The primary outcome was postoperative morbidity within 2 weeks postsurgery. The secondary outcome was surgical radicality, including the circumferential margins, and the number of lymph nodes dissected.

Results:

The MIE-SM was completed in all patients within 367.6±68.7 minutes. The incidences of postoperative morbidities including pulmonary complications, anastomotic leakage, chylothorax, or recurrent nerve injury were 43.3%.

Conclusion:

The MIE-SM was utilized for the first time to reduce the disadvantage of purely Sweet and McKeown approach, with favorable efficacy in the mediastinal and laryngeal recurrent nerve lymph node eradication. Thus, MIE-SM might be a promising alternative approach in treating esophageal cancer in selected patients.
Piloting a Sex-Specific, Technology-Enhanced, Active Learning Intervention for Stroke Prevention in Women
Authors: Dirickson Amanda , Stutzman Sonja E. , Alberts Mark J. , Novakovic Roberta L. , Stowe Ann M. , Beal Claudia C. , Goldberg Mark P. , Olson DaiWai M.
Published: November 2017

Background: Recent studies reveal deficiencies in stroke awareness and knowledge of risk factors among women. Existing stroke education interventions may not address common and sex-specific risk factors in the population with the highest stroke-related rate of mortality. Objective: This pilot study assessed the efficacy of a technology-enhanced, sex-specific educational program (“SISTERS”) for women’s knowledge of stroke. Methods: This was an experimental pretest-posttest design. The sample consisted of 150 women (mean age, 55 years) with at least 1 stroke risk factor. Participants were randomized to either the intervention (n = 75) or control (n = 75) group. Data were collected at baseline and at a 2-week posttest. Results: There was no statistically significant difference in mean knowledge score (P = .67), mean confidence score (P = .77), or mean accuracy score (P = .75) between the intervention and control groups at posttest. Regression analysis revealed that older age was associated with lower knowledge scores (P < .001) and lower confidence scores (P < .001). After controlling for age, the SISTERS program was associated with a statistically significant difference in knowledge (P < .001) and confidence (P < .001). Conclusions: Although no change occurred overall, after controlling for age, there was a statistically significant benefit. Older women may have less comfort with technology and require consideration for cognitive differences.
Trauma Leadership Strategies to Prevent and Reduce Burnout in Urban Academic Trauma Centers
Authors: Hockaday Melissa S.
Published: November 2017

The incidence of burnout syndrome is increasing among all health care disciplines. The core members of the trauma team in high-performing trauma centers are the greatest risk. It is the responsibility of trauma leadership to raise awareness of risk factors, implement standardized assessment tools, and develop strategies to mitigate burnout in employees. The consequences of burnout are devastating to providers' well-being as well as patient safety. Burnout can lead to increased risk of anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and suicide among team members. The development of burnout in team members can negatively impact patient safety. It can increase the risk of medical errors, health care–acquired infections, and declining patient satisfaction scores. It is essential that professional organizations raise awareness of this health care epidemic and provide resources to leaders to impact change.
Concussions: Benefits of Academic Reentry Plans
Authors: Connell Amy Coyle
Published: November 2017

Purpose of this study was to identify whether children aged 12–14 years benefit from academic reentry plans when returning to school following a mild traumatic brain injury. An integrative review was carried out with data sourced from CINAHL, Medline, Education Full Text, Health Source: Nursing/Academic Edition, and hand searching of references. Abstracts were reviewed for inclusion/exclusion criteria, resulting with six articles appraised and analyzed for this article. The review shows the need for gradual return to physical and cognitive activity postconcussion to facilitate a quicker recovery with fewer postconcussive symptoms. Although each traumatic brain injury case is individualized with symptoms and severity, a guideline of recommendations and accommodations for return to cognitive activity would be beneficial for the student, educator, family, and medical personnel involved in the children's care. Further research is recommended to develop a better understanding of long-term effects mild traumatic brain injury has on children and recommendations of how to minimalize or accommodate these changes.
The Effect of Time to International Normalized Ratio Reversal on Intracranial Hemorrhage Evolution in Patients With Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Andrews Hans , Rittenhouse Katelyn , Gross Brian , Rogers Frederick B.
Published: November 2017

The incidence of geriatric traumatic brain injury (TBI) is increasing throughout the United States, with many of these patients taking anticoagulation (AC) medication. The purpose of this investigation was to determine the effect of time to international normalized ratio (INR) reversal on intracranial hemorrhage evolution in TBI patients taking prehospital AC medication. We hypothesized that rapid reversal of INR improves outcomes of head-injured patients taking AC medication. Admissions to a Level II trauma center between February 2011 and December 2013 were reviewed. Patients presenting with an initial INR of 2.0 or more, computed tomographic scan positive for intracranial hemorrhage, and INR reversal to less than 1.5 in hospital were included. Patients with nontraumatic intracranial hemorrhage were excluded. Reversal of INR was achieved using some combination of fresh frozen plasma, prothrombin complex concentrate, and vitamin K. A binary logistic regression model assessed the adjusted impact of rapid INR reversal on intracranial hemorrhage evolution. Significance was defined as p < .05. One hundred subjects were included. Four patients with nontraumatic intracranial hemorrhage were excluded, resulting in a final study population of 96 patients. The most common intracranial hemorrhage in the study population was subarachnoid hemorrhage (71.9%), followed by subdural hemorrhage (35.4%). Reversal of INR of less than 5 hr was not associated with intracranial hemorrhage evolution; however, reversal of less than 10 hr was found to be associated with a decreased odds ratio for intracranial hemorrhage evolution (p = .043). Rapid reversal of elevated INR levels (<10 hr) may decrease intracranial hemorrhage evolution in TBI patients taking prehospital AC medication.
Patients’ beliefs about medicine are associated with early thiopurine discontinuation in patients with inflammatory bowel diseases
Authors: Broekman Mark M.T.J. , Coenen Marieke J.H. , Wanten Geert J. , van Marrewijk Corine J. , Kievit Wietske , Klungel Olaf H. , Verbeek André L.M. , Wong Dennis R. , Hooymans Piet M. , Guchelaar Henk-Jan , Scheffer Hans , Derijks Luc J.J. , Bouvy Marcel L. , de Jong Dirk J.
Published: November 2017

Background

Patients’ beliefs about medicine may either reflect the necessity for treatment or concerns regarding the treatment. We explored the extent to which these beliefs have an effect on thiopurine metabolite levels and premature discontinuation in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

Patients and methods

Patients enrolled in the ‘Thiopurine response Optimization by Pharmacogenetic testing in Inflammatory Bowel Disease Clinics’ (TOPIC) trial were asked to complete the Beliefs about Medicine Questionnaire (BMQ) 4 weeks after thiopurine initiation. The BMQ measures perceptions about treatment necessity and concerns. On the basis of the necessity and concern scores, patients can be categorized as accepting, ambivalent, indifferent, or skeptical. The thiopurine discontinuation rates for these belief subgroups were compared by Kaplan–Meier curves. Furthermore, clinical response and metabolite levels were compared between the belief subgroups.

Results

A total of 767 patients with IBD started thiopurine treatment, of whom 576 (75%) completed the BMQ. Patients could be classified as accepting (34%), indifferent (17%), ambivalent (34%), or skeptical (15%). Compared with patients in the accepting group (discontinuation rate 22%), patients with an indifferent (35%; P=0.02), ambivalent (37%; P<0.01), or skeptical belief (54%; P<0.01) had higher thiopurine discontinuation rates. No differences were observed in the steady-state thiopurine metabolite levels between the different belief subgroups.

Conclusion

Patients with a low perceived treatment necessity or high concerns toward IBD treatment were more likely to discontinue thiopurine treatment prematurely. Extra attention toward these patients might prevent premature discontinuation.
Identification of an ND4 Mutation in Leber Hereditary Optic Neuropathy
Authors: Lu Qian , Guo Yi , Yi Junhui , Deng Xiong , Yang Zhijian , Yuan Xiuhong , Deng Hao
Published: November 2017

SIGNIFICANCE

We identified a missense mutation, m.11778G>A (p.R340H), in the mitochondrially encoded NADH dehydrogenase 4 gene (ND4) in eight patients and three asymptomatic carriers, even though the incidence of this has been considered low in Chinese population. These results have implications for the families' genetic counseling and clinical management.

PURPOSE

Leber hereditary optic neuropathy (LHON OMIM 535000) is one of the most common inherited optic neuropathies. The aim of this study was to identify the genetic cause in two Han Chinese families with LHON.

METHODS

We used Sanger sequencing to identify the genetic cause of two Han Chinese families from Hunan, China, with LHON.

RESULTS

The patients in these two families presented with typical LHON, with male patients experiencing more severe phenotypes. A missense mutation, m.11778G>A (p.R340H), in the ND4 gene was identified in eight patients and three asymptomatic carriers, even though the incidence of this has been considered low in Chinese population.

CONCLUSIONS

Eight of 11 family members (72.7%) manifested some vision loss, which is far higher percentage than reported in other studies. The variant is predicted to be the disease-causing mutation and results in seriously abnormal function of complex I subunits of the mitochondrial respiratory chain. These results have implications for the families' genetic counseling and clinical management and help to develop new LHON target-gene therapy strategies.
Impact of an Original Methodological Tool on the Identification of Corrective and Preventive Actions After Root Cause Analysis of Adverse Events in Health Care Facilities: Results of a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Vacher Anthony , El Mhamdi Sana , d’Hollander Alain , Izotte Marion , Auroy Yves , Michel Philippe , Quenon Jean-Luc
Published: November 2017

Objective

The aim of the study was to assess the effectiveness of a new methodological tool for the identification of corrective and preventive actions (CAPAs) after root cause analysis of health care–related adverse events.

Methods

From January to June 2010, we conducted a randomized controlled trial involving risk managers from 111 health care facilities of the Aquitaine Regional Center for Quality and Safety in Health Care (France). Fifty-six risk managers, randomly assigned to two groups (intervention and control), identified CAPAs in response to two sequentially presented adverse event scenarios. For the baseline measure, both groups used their usual adverse event management tools to identify CAPAs in each scenario. For the experimental measure, the control group continued using their usual tools, whereas the intervention group used a new tool involving a systemic approach for CAPA identification. The main outcome measure was the number of CAPAs the participants identified that matched a criterion standard established by eight experts.

Results

Baseline mean number of identified CAPAs did not differ between the two groups (P = 0.83). For the experimental measure, significantly more CAPAs (P = 0.001) were identified by the intervention group (mean [SD] = 4.6 [1.7]) than by the control group (mean [SD] = 2.8 [1.2]).

Conclusions

For the two scenarios tested, more relevant CAPAs were identified with the new tool than with usual tools. Further research is needed to assess the effectiveness of the new tool for other types of adverse events and its impact on patient safety.
Simulation in Interprofessional Clinical Education
Authors: von Wendt Carl Eugene Alexander , Niemi-Murola Leila
Published: November 2017

Summary Statement

The research literature regarding interprofessional simulation-based medical education has grown substantially and continues to explore new aspects of this educational modality. The aim of this study was to explore the validation evidence of tools used to assess teamwork and nontechnical skills in interprofessional simulation-based clinical education. This systematic review included original studies that assessed participants’ teamwork and nontechnical skills, using a measurement tool, in an interprofessional simulated setting. We assessed the validity of each assessment tool using Kane’s framework. Medical Education Research Study Quality Instrument scores for the studies ranged from 8.5 to 17.0. Across the 22 different studies, there were 20 different assessment strategies, in which Team Emergency Assessment Measure, Anesthetist’s Nontechnical Skills, and Nontechnical Skills for Surgeons were used more than once. Most assessment tools have been validated for scoring and generalization inference. Fewer tools have been validated for extrapolation inference, such as expert-novice analysis or factor analysis.
A Novel Task Trainer for Penile Corpus Cavernosa Aspiration
Authors: Ruest Amber S. , Getto Leila P. , Fredette Jenna M. , Cherico Amy , Papas Mia A. , Nomura Jason T.
Published: November 2017

Introduction

Priapism is a rare yet time sensitive emergency with potentially significant morbidity. A novel task trainer was developed for corpus cavernosa aspiration and phenylephrine injection. The primary aim of this study was to assess model realism and usefulness for emergency medicine resident procedural education. Secondarily, an assessment of comfort level with the procedure before and after intervention was performed.

Methods

A priapism model containing corpus cavernosa and spongiosum analogs was constructed. The models and evaluation forms were pilot tested by faculty and then tested for realism and usefulness in a sample of 49 residents after a brief training session. Secondary end points included resident comfort with cavernosa aspiration before and after the session of the model on a visual analog scale.

Results

Eight faculty pilot tested the procedure model and evaluated it based on a 5-point scale. They unanimously felt that the model was realistic [mean = 4.4, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 3.8–5.0] and useful for resident education (mean = 4.8, 95% CI = 4.4–5.0). The model was then evaluated for realism and usefulness in 49 residents. The model was felt to be realistic (mean = 4.3, 95% CI = 4.0–4.5) and useful for resident education (mean = 4.6, 95% CI = 4.4–4.8). Residents also noted an improvement in comfort performing the procedure before and after simulation session with the mean visual analog scale rating increasing from 34.3 to 83.8 (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

An easily constructed priapism task trainer was felt to be realistic and useful for resident education. Secondarily, use of the model in a simulation session can improve resident comfort in an important and infrequent procedure.
Death of a Simulated Pediatric Patient
Authors: McBride Mary E. , Schinasi Dana Aronson , Moga Michael Alice , Tripathy Shreepada , Calhoun Aaron
Published: November 2017

Introduction

A theoretical framework was recently proposed that encapsulates learner responses to simulated death due to action or inaction in the pediatric context. This framework, however, was developed at an institution that allows simulated death and thus does not address the experience of those centers at which this technique is not used. To address this, we performed a parallel qualitative study with the intent of augmenting the initial framework.

Methods

We conducted focus groups, using a constructivist grounded theory approach, using physicians and nurses who have experienced a simulated cardiac arrest. The participants were recruited via e-mail. Transcripts were analyzed by coders blinded to the original framework to generate a list of provisional themes that were iteratively refined. These themes were then compared with the themes from the original article and used to derive a consensus model that incorporated the most relevant features of each.

Results

Focus group data yielded 7 themes. Six were similar to those developed in the original framework. One important exception was noted; however, those learners not exposed to patient death due to action or inaction often felt that the mannequin's survival was artificial. This additional theme was incorporated into a revised framework.

Discussion

The original framework addresses most aspects of learner reactions to simulated death. Our work suggests that adding the theme pertaining to the lack of realism that can be perceived when the mannequin is unexpectedly saved results in a more robust theoretical framework transferable to centers that do not allow mannequin death.
Widespread co-occurrence of two distantly related mitochondrial genomes in individuals of the leaf beetle
Gonioctena intermedia
Authors: Kastally Chedly , Mardulyn Patrick
Published: November 2017

Mitochondrial genome heteroplasmy—the presence of more than one genomic variant in individuals—is considered only occasional in animals, and most often involves molecules differing only by a few recent mutations. Thanks to new sequencing technologies, a large number of DNA fragments from a single individual can now be sequenced and visualized separately, allowing new insights into intra-individual mitochondrial genome variation. Here, we report evidence from both (i) massive parallel sequencing (MPS) of genomic extracts and (ii) Sanger sequencing of PCR products, for the widespread co-occurrence of two distantly related (greater than 1% nucleotide divergence, excluding the control region) mitochondrial genomes in individuals of a natural population of the leaf beetle
Gonioctena intermedia
. Sanger sequencing of PCR products using universal primers previously failed to identify heteroplasmy in this population. Its occurrence was detected with MPS data and may have important implications for evolutionary studies. It suggests the need to re-evaluate, using MPS techniques, the proportion of animal species displaying heteroplasmy.
Measurement of micro-scale soil deformation around roots using four-dimensional synchrotron tomography and image correlation
Authors: Keyes S. D. , Cooper L. , Duncan S. , Koebernick N. , McKay Fletcher D. M. , Scotson C. P. , van Veelen A. , Sinclair I. , Roose T.
Published: November 2017

This study applied time lapse (four-dimensional) synchrotron X-ray computed tomography to observe micro-scale interactions between plant roots and soil. Functionally contrasting maize root tips were repeatedly imaged during ingress into soil columns of varying water content and compaction. This yielded sequences of three-dimensional densiometric data, representing time-resolved geometric soil and root configurations at the micronmetre scale. These data were used as inputs for two full-field kinematic quantification methods, which enabled the analysis of three-dimensional soil deformation around elongating roots. Discrete object tracking was used to track rigid mineral grains, while continuum digital volume correlation was used to track grey-level patterns within local sub-volumes. These techniques both allowed full-field soil displacements to be quantified at an intra-rhizosphere spatial sampling scale of less than 300 µm. Significant differences in deformation mechanisms were identified around different phenotypes under different soil conditions. A uniquely strong contrast was observed between intact and de-capped roots grown in dry, compacted soil. This provides evidence that functional traits of the root cap significantly reduce the amount of soil disturbance per unit of root elongation, with this effect being particularly significant in drier soil.
Upregulation of PIR gene expression induced by human papillomavirus E6 and E7 in epithelial oral and cervical cells
Authors: Carrillo Diego , Muñoz Juan P. , Huerta Hernán , Leal Gabriel , Corvalán Alejandro , León Oscar , Calaf Gloria M. , Urzúa Ulises , Boccardo Enrique , Tapia Julio C. , Aguayo Francisco
Published: November 2017

The hallmark of high-risk human papillomavirus (HR-HPV)-related carcinogenesis is E6 and E7 oncogene overexpression. The aim of this work was to characterize epithelial oral and cervical cancer cells that express HR-HPV E6 and E7 oncoproteins. Transcriptomic assay using DNA microarrays revealed that PIR gene expression was detected in oral cells in an HR-HPV E6/E7-dependent manner. In addition, PIR was overexpressed in HPV-positive SiHa and Ca Ski cells, whereas it was undetectable in HPV-negative C33A cells. The PIR expression was dependent on functional HR-HPV E6 and E7 oncoproteins even though the E7 oncoprotein had higher activity to induce PIR overexpression in comparison with E6. In addition, using an siRNA for PIR silencing in oral cells ectopically expressing HR-HPV E6/E7, there was a significant increase in E-cadherin transcripts and a decrease in Vimentin, Slug, Zeb and Snail transcripts, suggesting that HR-HPV-induced PIR overexpression is involved in epithelial–mesenchymal transition. Furthermore, migration of PIR-silenced cells was significantly decreased. Finally, using inhibitors of some specific pathways, it was found that EGFR/ERK and PI3 K/AKT signalling pathways are important for E7-mediated PIR overexpression. It can be concluded that PIR gene expression is highly dependent on the expression of HR-HPV oncoproteins and is important for EMT regulation.
Heparin-bound chemokine CXCL8 monomer and dimer are impaired for CXCR1 and CXCR2 activation: implications for gradients and neutrophil trafficking
Authors: Joseph Prem Raj B. , Sawant Kirti V. , Rajarathnam Krishna
Published: November 2017

Chemokine CXCL8 plays a pivotal role in host immune response by recruiting neutrophils to the infection site. CXCL8 exists as monomers and dimers, and mediates recruitment by interacting with glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) and activating CXCR1 and CXCR2 receptors. How CXCL8 monomer and dimer interactions with both receptors and GAGs mediate trafficking is poorly understood. In particular, both haptotactic (mediated by GAG-bound chemokine) and chemotactic (mediated by soluble chemokine) gradients have been implicated, and whether it is the free or the GAG-bound CXCL8 monomer and/or dimer that activates the receptor remains unknown. Using solution NMR spectroscopy, we have now characterized the binding of heparin-bound CXCL8 monomer and dimer to CXCR1 and CXCR2 receptor N-domains. Our data provide compelling evidence that heparin-bound monomers and dimers are unable to bind either of the receptors. Cellular assays also indicate that heparin-bound CXCL8 is impaired for receptor activity. Considering dimer binds GAGs with higher affinity, dimers will exist predominantly in the GAG-bound form and the monomer in the free form. We conclude that GAG interactions determine the levels of free CXCL8, and that it is the free, and not GAG-bound, CXCL8 that activates the receptors and mediates recruitment of blood neutrophils to the infected tissue.
Secondary osteons scale allometrically in mammalian humerus and femur
Authors: Felder A. A. , Phillips C. , Cornish H. , Cooke M. , Hutchinson J. R. , Doube M.
Published: November 2017

Intra-cortical bone remodelling is a cell-driven process that replaces existing bone tissue with new bone tissue in the bone cortex, leaving behind histological features called secondary osteons. While the scaling of bone dimensions on a macroscopic scale is well known, less is known about how the spatial dimensions of secondary osteons vary in relation to the adult body size of the species. We measured the cross-sectional area of individual intact secondary osteons and their central Haversian canals in transverse sections from 40 stylopodal bones of 39 mammalian species (body mass 0.3–21 000 kg). Scaling analysis of our data shows that mean osteonal resorption area (negative allometry, exponent 0.23,R2 0.54,p<0.005) and Haversian canal area (negative allometry, exponent 0.31,R2 0.45,p<0.005) are significantly related to body mass, independent of phylogeny. This study is the most comprehensive of its kind to date, and allows us to describe overall trends in the scaling behaviour of secondary osteon dimensions, supporting the inference that the osteonal resorption area may be limited by the need to avoid fracture in smaller mammalian species, but the need to maintain osteocyte viability in larger mammalian species.
Platinum catalyzed hydrodeoxygenation of guaiacol in illumination of cresol production: a density functional theory study
Authors: Verma Anand Mohan , Kishore Nanda
Published: November 2017

The unprocessed bio-oil obtained by the pyrolysis of lignocellulosic biomass comprises hundreds of oxy-components which vitiate its quality in terms of low heating value, low stability, low pH, etc. Therefore, it has to be upgraded prior to its use as transportation fuel. In this work, guaiacol, a promising compound of the phenolic fraction of unprocessed bio-oil, is considered as a model component for studying its hydrodeoxygenation over a Pt
3
catalyst cluster. The production of catechol, 3-methylcatechol,
m
-cresol and
o
-cresol from guaiacol over a Pt
3
cluster is numerically investigated using density functional theory. Further, the kinetic parameters are obtained over a wide range of temperature, i.e. 473–673 K at an interval of 50 K. Briefly, results indicate that O─H and C─H bond scissions determine the reaction rates of ‘guaiacol to catechol’ and ‘catechol to 3-methylcatechol’ reactions with activation energies of 30.32 and 41.3 kcal mol
−1
, respectively. On the other hand, C─O bond scissions determine the rates of 3-methylcatechol to
m
- and
o
-cresol production reactions, respectively. The kinetics of all reactions indicate that ln
k
versus 1/
T
plots are linear over the entire range of temperature considered herein.
Colorimetric and fluorescent probes for real-time naked eye sensing of copper ion in solution and on paper substrate
Authors: Chen Dugang , Chen Pengyu , Zong Luyi , Sun Yimin , Liu Guangchao , Yu Xianglin , Qin Jingui
Published: November 2017

In this paper, BT ((
E
)-2-(4-(4-(bis(pyridin-2-ylmethyl)amino)styryl)-3-cyano-5,5-dimethylfuran-2(5H)-ylidene)malononitrile) with strong donor–π-acceptor structure was synthesized, which showed both colorimetric and fluorescent sensing ability toward Cu
2+
with high selectivity and sensitivity. Job plot and mass spectra measurement revealed a 1 : 1 coordination mode between Cu
2+
and probe BT in ethanol/HEPES (1 : 4 v/v) buffer (pH 7.2) solution, and the binding constant was calculated to be 3.6 × 10
4
 M
–1
. The colour of BT solution (10 µM) immediately turned from purple red to yellow and the red fluorescence was quenched obviously when a certain amount of Cu
2+
was added, which enabled a dual-channel detection of Cu
2+
. A paper strip pre-stained with BT solution was further fabricated and it also showed excellent sensing ability toward Cu
2+
with a detection limit as low as 10
−6
 M with the naked eye, which represents better portability and operation simplicity that is favourable for on-site analysis of Cu
2+
in water.
Climate change and bird reproduction: warmer springs benefit breeding success in boreal forest grouse
Authors: Wegge Per , Rolstad Jørund
Published: November 2017

Global warming is predicted to adversely affect the reproduction of birds, especially in northern latitudes. A recent study in Finland inferred that declining populations of black grouse,
Tetrao tetrix
, could be attributed to advancement of the time of mating and chicks hatching too early—supporting the mismatch hypothesis. Here, we examine the breeding success of sympatric capercaillie,
T. urogallus,
and black grouse over a 38-year period in southeast Norway. Breeding season temperatures increased, being most pronounced in April. Although the onset of spring advanced nearly three weeks, the peak of mating advanced only 4–5 days. In contrast to the result of the Finnish study, breeding success increased markedly in both species (capercaillie: 62%, black grouse: 38%). Both brood frequency and brood size increased during the study period, but significantly so only for brood frequency in capercaillie. Whereas the frequency of capercaillie broods was positively affected by rising temperatures, especially during the pre-hatching period, this was not the case in black grouse. Brood size, on the other hand, increased with increasing post-hatching temperatures in both species. Contrary to the prediction that global warming will adversely affect reproduction in boreal forest grouse, our study shows that breeding success was enhanced in warmer springs.
The politics of data friction
Authors: Bates Jo
Published: November 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is twofold: first, to further develop Paul Edwards’ concept of “data friction” by examining the socio-material forces that are shaping data movements in the cases of research data and online communications data, second, to articulate a politics of data friction, identifying the interrelated infrastructural, socio-cultural and regulatory dynamics of data friction, and how these are contributing to the constitution of social relations.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper develops a hermeneutic review of the literature on socio-material factors influencing the movement of digital data between social actors in the cases of research data sharing and online communications data. Parallels between the two cases are identified and used to further develop understanding of the politics of “data friction” beyond the concept’s current usage within the Science Studies literature.

Findings

A number of overarching parallels are identified relating to the ways in which new data flows and the frictions that shape them bring social actors into new forms of relation with one another, the platformisation of infrastructures for data circulation, and state action to influence the dynamics of data movement. Moments and sites of “data friction” are identified as deeply political – resulting from the collective decisions of human actors who experience significantly different levels of empowerment with regard to shaping the overall outcome.

Research limitations/implications

The paper further develops Paul Edwards’ concept of “data friction” beyond its current application in Science Studies. Analysis of the broader dynamics of data friction across different cases identifies a number of parallels that require further empirical examination and theorisation.

Practical implications

The observation that sites of data friction are deeply political has significant implications for all engaged in the practice and management of digital data production, circulation and use.

Social implications

It is argued that the concept of “data friction” can help social actors identify, examine and act upon some of the complex socio-material dynamics shaping emergent data movements across a variety of domains, and inform deliberation at all levels – from everyday practice to international regulation – about how such frictions can be collectively shaped towards the creation of more equitable and just societies.

Originality/value

The paper makes an original contribution to the literature on friction in the dynamics of digital data movement, arguing that in many cases data friction may be something to enable and foster, rather than overcome. It also brings together literature from diverse disciplinary fields to examine these frictional dynamics within two cases that have not previously been examined in relation to one another.
Evaluating a computer-training program for individuals with physical disabilities
Authors: Mathai Maria Salina , Mendonca Rochelle
Published: November 2017

Purpose

As increasing numbers of people with disabilities return to the community, it is necessary to equip them with skills to succeed in this technological world. The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the effect of attendance, satisfaction, goal achievement, and transportation on a goals-based computer-training program for people with physical disabilities (n=130).

Design/methodology/approach

Regressions, distribution comparisons, and correlations were retrospectively conducted on data from a computer-training program for people with disabilities. Participants were aged 20-100 and were diverse in terms of education, diagnoses, and living situation.

Findings

Results indicated that people with physical disabilities from diverse demographic and -contextual backgrounds could participate in a goals-based computer-training program. Factors that affected the computer-training program included method of transportation (p=0.034), perception of goal achievement (p=0.000), and attendance rates (p=0.001). A strong correlation was found between support available for computer use and continued computer use (p=0.000).

Research limitations/implications

Goals-based computer-training approaches that are client-centered may lead to increased perceptions of goal achievement and program satisfaction for people with disabilities, which could be used as outcomes to monitor success of such programs. It is also important to consider the effect of transportation and attendance rates on computer-training programs. However, results of this study were limited by its retrospective nature.

Originality/value

This study provides empirical data on factors that affect goals-based computer-training programs and evidence for the efficacy of such programs for individuals with disabilities. This can be used for program development and future research.
Trends, goals and outcomes for children and families using early powered mobility in a charitable loan scheme
Authors: Evans Nina , Baines Rae
Published: November 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore a large data set compiled by a UK charity loan scheme to identify trends and paint a practice-based picture of how young children use early years powered mobility (EYPM).

Design/methodology/approach

Statistical analysis was used to investigate a database of 90 children, ranging in age from 15 to 72 months who completed use of an EYPM device (the Wizzybug, or WB) between April 2011 and December 2015. Goals were set and reviewed, and thematic analysis was used to understand families’ insights into their children’s use of EYPM, using a free-text review form.

Findings

Children’s mean age when joining this free loan scheme was 39.6 months. The later the child started using a Wizzybug, the less likely they were to achieve their goals. A theme of happiness and enjoyment emerged as important for both child and family. The child’s independence translated to independence for the whole family.

Research limitations/implications

The database was operational and incomplete. Lack of a standardised outcome measure was disadvantageous.

Practical implications

Challenges of translating research knowledge into practice are highlighted, supporting the need for more rigorous and standardised outcome measures. Earlier identification of children’s readiness for EYPM is required alongside research and recognition of the holistic benefits of EYPM for all the family.

Originality/value

This research profited from a large data set of young children with long-term access to powered mobility at home.
In memoriam: Professor David J. Campbell, 1963-2017
Authors: Slack Richard
Published: November 2017

Purpose

This tribute is in memory of Professor David Campbell, who sadly died in June 2017. David was an influential and inspirational global researcher in accounting. This tribute summarises his significant contribution to the discipline as well as providing insights into his career at Northumbria and Newcastle Universities.

Design/methodology/approach

The tribute provides a review of David’s research and his key publications in accounting. Specifically, his invaluable contribution to social and environmental accounting disclosure and related corporate accountability is highlighted.

Findings

David was a hugely popular personality in the accounting research discipline and he will be missed by colleagues and friends across the world. His insightful research, thinking and engaging personality led to enduring friendships and significant collaborative research publications. David was a great supporter of international conferences at which he actively encouraged and nurtured research by others around him.

Research limitations/implications

David leaves a legacy of influential publications in accounting that have shaped the discipline and have helped develop solid foundations for rigorous future research in the area.

Practical implications

David’s research had significant practical implications with regard to the usefulness of voluntary accounting disclosure narrative to stakeholders. As well as highlighting the policy implications in relation to corporate disclosure, his work contributed to the debate concerning the accountability and ethics of organisations. Beyond research, David was also influential in professional accounting education as ACCA chief examiner for “Governance, Risk and Ethics”, embedding these issues into the curriculum.

Social implications

The tribute highlights David’s global collaborative research friendships and their fruitful publications. He will be a huge loss to those people and others who knew him closely, as well as to the accounting community in general.

Originality/value

David enhanced the discipline as we know it and through his work will continue to shape the discipline in years to come. David had a love for research and for others whom he knew through it.
High‐speed displays encoding motor skill trigger elevated territorial aggression in downy woodpeckers
Authors: Schuppe Eric R. , Fuxjager Matthew J.
Published: November 2017

Many species perform social displays that incorporate complex body movements. However, the reason why such exaggerated behavioural signals evolve in the first place is unclear.

Recent work posits that physical displays arise in part because they showcase an animal's motor skill—that is, the ability to produce challenging motor acts with great coordination, precision and/or speed. Support for this idea is largely correlational, with few studies attempting to manipulate metrics of motor skill to assess their effect on physical display efficacy.

Here, we address this issue in the downy woodpecker (Dryobates pubescens). Individuals of this species compete for territories through the performance of drums, which are complex displays produced by rapidly hammering the bill against a resonate surface at rates of 16 hits/s. This display is a whole‐body endeavour, and its production relies on the ability to swiftly oscillate the head forward and backward at fraction‐of‐a‐second periods.

Using a series of playback studies, we expose resident birds to experimentally engineered drums that reflect putative fine‐scale differences in the motor command of the head and neck. We show that resident individuals respond more aggressively to drums characterized by a cadence with a 9‐ms faster beat speed. These residents even modulate their own drum speed to resemble this high‐performance stimulus, although they often fail to reach it. Residents also appear to appraise drum acceleration by listening to the time intervals between successive beats in a single drum, while tracking how these time intervals change as the signal progresses.

Our data support a connection between motor skill and the effectiveness of a physical display produced through elaborate body movement. We, therefore, suspect that motor skill is adaptive and evolves in response to selection by competition for effective drum displays.

A plain language summary is available for this article.
Weight cycling in adults with severe obesity: A longitudinal study
Authors: El Ghoch Marwan , Calugi Simona , Dalle Grave Riccardo
Published: November 2017

Aim

Although weight cycling is a common phenomenon in treatment‐seeking patients with obesity, its consequences on health outcomes have not yet been completely clarified. We therefore aimed to investigate the effect of one cycle of intentional weight loss and regain on energy expenditure, body composition, cardiovascular risk factors and psychosocial variables in patients with severe obesity.

Methods

Clinical and psychosocial variables were measured in 38 adult patients with severe obesity (body mass index (BMI): 43.5 ± 7.2 kg/m2) consecutively readmitted to rehabilitative residential treatment (T1) for severe obesity after a cycle of weight loss (16.7 ±7.7 kg) and regain (15.1 ±11.3 kg), and compared with those recorded at a prior admission (T0).

Results

No significant differences were found between T0 and T1 values for weight, BMI, waist circumference, total body fat percentage, fat‐free mass percentage, respiratory quotient, measured or predicted resting energy expenditure, metabolic adaptation, cardiovascular risk factors or psychosocial variables. However, younger patients (r = −0.38, P = 0.023) and those with higher historical weight (r = 0.43, P = 0.010) tended to regain more weight.

Conclusions

The absence of negative physical and psychological effects of weight cycling indicates that the risk of weight regain should not be a barrier to encouraging weight loss efforts in patients with severe obesity.