bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sumoylation regulates central spindle protein dynamics during chromosome segregation in oocytes
Authors: Pelisch Federico , Borja Laura Bel , Jaffray Ellis G. , Hay Ronald T.
Published: March 2019

Meiotic spindles in most species lack centrosomes and the mechanisms that underlie faithful chromosome segregation in acentrosomal meiotic spindles are not well understood. In C. elegans oocytes, spindle microtubules exert a poleward force on chromosomes dependent on the microtubule-stabilising protein CLS-2CLASP. The kinase BUB-1Bub1 and CLS-2CLASP localise in the central-spindle and display a dynamic localisation pattern throughout anaphase but the signals regulating their anaphase-specific localisation remains unknown. We have shown that SUMO regulates BUB-1 localisation during metaphase I. Here, we found that SUMO modification of BUB-1Bub1 is regulated by the SUMO E3 ligase GEI-17 and the SUMO protease ULP-1. SUMO is required for BUB-1 localisation in between segregating chromosomes during early anaphase I, and SUMO depletion partially phenocopies BUB-1Bub1 depletion. We also show that CLS-2CLASP is subject to SUMO-mediated regulation. Over-all, we provide evidence for a novel, SUMO-mediated control of protein dynamics during early anaphase I in oocytes.
Aboave-Weaire’s law in epithelia results from an angle constraint in contiguous polygonal lattices
Authors: Vetter Roman , Kokic Marco , Gómez Harold , Hodel Leonie , Gjeta Bruno , Iannini Antonella , Villa-Fombuena Gema , Casares Fernando , Iber Dagmar
Published: March 2019

It has long been noted that the cell arrangements in epithelia, regardless of their origin, exhibit some striking regularities: first, the average number of cell neighbours at the apical side is (close to) six. Second, the average apical cell area is linearly related to the number of neighbours, such that cells with larger apical area have on average more neighbours, a relation termed Lewis’ law. Third, Aboav-Weaire’s (AW) law relates the number of neighbours that a cell has to that of its direct neighbours. While the first rule can be explained with topological constraints in contiguous polygonal lattices, and the second rule (Lewis’ law) with the minimisation of the lateral contact surface energy, the driving forces behind the AW law have remained elusive. We now show that also the AW law emerges to minimise the lateral contact surface energy in polygonal lattices by driving cells to the most regular polygonal shape, but while Lewis’ law regulates the side lengths, the AW law controls the angles. We conclude that global apical epithelial organization is the result of energy minimisation under topological constraints.
Stress-induced detwinning and martensite transformation in an austenite Ni–Mn–Ga alloy with martensite cluster under uniaxial loading
Authors: Hou Long , Niu Ying , Dai Yanchao , Ba Lansong , Fautrelle Yves , Li Zongbin , Yang Bo , Esling Claude , Li Xi
Published: March 2019

Stress-induced martensitic detwinning and martensitic transformation during step-wise compression in an austenite Ni–Mn–Ga matrix with a martensite cluster under uniaxial loading have been investigated by electron backscatter diffraction, focusing on the crystallographic features of microstructure evolution. The results indicate that detwinning occurs on twins with a high Schmid factor for both intra-plate and inter-plate twins in the hierarchical structure, resulting in a nonmodulated (NM) martensite composed only of favourable variants with [001]NM orientation away from the compression axis. Moreover, the stress-induced martensitic transformation occurs at higher stress levels, undergoing a three-stage transformation from austenite to a twin variant pair and finally to a single variant with increasing compressive stress, and theoretical calculation shows that the corresponding crystallographic configuration is accommodated to the compression stress. The present research not only provides a comprehensive understanding of martensitic variant detwinning and martensitic transformation under compression stress, but also offers important guidelines for the mechanical training process of martensite.
A new high accuracy cubic spline method based on half-step discretization for the system of 1D non-linear wave equations
Authors: Mohanty Ranjan Kumar , Khurana Gunjan
Published: March 2019

Purpose

This paper aims to develop a new 3-level implicit numerical method of order 2 in time and 4 in space based on half-step cubic polynomial approximations for the solution of 1D quasi-linear hyperbolic partial differential equations. The method is derived directly from the consistency condition of spline function which is fourth-order accurate. The method is directly applied to hyperbolic equations, irrespective of coordinate system, and fourth-order nonlinear hyperbolic equation, which is main advantage of the work.

Design/methodology/approach

In this method, three grid points for the unknown function w(x,t) and two half-step points for the known variablexin spatial direction are used. The methodology followed in this paper is construction of a cubic spline polynomial and using its continuity properties to obtain fourth-order consistency condition. The proposed method, when applied to a linear equation is shown to be unconditionally stable. The technique is extended to solve system of quasi-linear hyperbolic equations. To assess the validity and accuracy, the method is applied to solve several benchmark problems, and numerical results are provided to demonstrate the usefulness of the method.

Findings

The paper provides a fourth-order numerical scheme obtained directly from fourth-order consistency condition. In earlier methods, consistency conditions were only second-order accurate. This brings an edge over other past methods. In addition, the method is directly applicable to physical problems involving singular coefficients. Therefore, no modification in the method is required at singular points. This saves CPU time, as well as computational costs.

Research limitations/implications

There are no limitations. Obtaining a fourth-order method directly from consistency condition is a new work. In addition, being an implicit method, this method is unconditionally stable for a linear test equation.

Practical implications

Physical problems with singular and nonsingular coefficients are directly solved by this method.

Originality/value

The paper develops a new fourth-order implicit method which is original and has substantial value because many benchmark problems of physical significance are solved in this method.
Who’s pulling the strings?
Authors: Weiger Welf H. , Wetzel Hauke A. , Hammerschmidt Maik
Published: March 2019

Purpose

Firms increasingly rely on content marketing to trigger user engagement in social media brand communities. The purpose of this paper is to examine how three generic types of marketer-generated content (affiliative, injunctive and utilitarian content) drive user engagement by considering distinct motivational paths and the role of users’ preference for intimate (vs broad) social networks.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors conduct a field survey and a scenario experiment among social media users across different brands from three different product categories. They examine the impact of marketer-generated content on user engagement while considering the moderating role of network intimacy (i.e. the mutual confiding within a user’s social network in terms of small social circles) and the mediating role of user motivations (i.e. autonomous vs controlled motivation for community membership).

Findings

The findings show that affiliative content (i.e. content that highlights shared values) drives user engagement through autonomous motivation, and utilitarian content (i.e. content that highlights tangible benefits) drives user engagement through controlled motivation. Notably, injunctive content (i.e. content that demands specific user behavior) is not a promising instrument to increase user engagement in social media brand communities when not targeted correctly.

Research limitations/implications

The authors link three generic content types derived from literature on communal systems to user engagement, demonstrate the motivational underpinnings of their translation into engagement behavior and show that network intimacy can explain why the same content type can impact user engagement through two motivational paths.

Practical implications

The authors present three types of content that marketers can craft to trigger users to engage with a brand’s social media community and show when this content is most effective and why. By examining the moderating role of network intimacy, this research aims at providing targeting implications to social media marketers.

Originality/value

This research provides new insights on the effectiveness of marketer-generated content. The authors reveal two motivational paths that compete in explaining the overall effectiveness of different types of marketer-generated content to fuel user engagement. The authors further demonstrate that these relationships depend on the intimacy of a user’s circle of online friends.
Consumers and technology in a changing world: the perspective from subsistence marketplaces
Authors: Viswanathan Madhubalan , Sreekumar Arun
Published: March 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide a perspective on consumers and technology in a changing world using insights gained from subsistence marketplaces. Consumers in a changing world are on different parts of the economic spectrum and are also reflected in contexts of poverty that is termed subsistence marketplaces. “Data” comes from pioneering the subsistence marketplaces stream of research, education and social enterprise.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors study the intersection of poverty and marketplaces, beginning at the micro-level, and take a bottom-up approach to deriving implications.

Findings

The authors cover both aspects – what micro-level insights about thinking, feeling and coping mean for technology perceptions and usage in general and what specific insights are derived for designing and implementing solutions that have bearing on the use of technology. In the course of all endeavors in research, education and social enterprise, technology, particularly information and communications technology, has been central.

Research limitations/implications

The authors discuss implications for research at the confluence of a variety of uncertainties inherent in the context of subsistence marketplaces, in environmental issues and climate change and in the nature and speed of technological change and progress.

Practical implications

In this paper, the authors discuss what subsistence marketplaces mean for consumers and technology in a changing world, lessons learned for the design and development of technological solutions, technological innovation from subsistence marketplaces and a broader discussion of the importance of bottom-up approaches to the intersection of subsistence marketplaces and technological solutions.

Originality/value

The authors use insights developed from pioneering the arena of subsistence marketplaces and creating synergies between research, education and social enterprise.
Public hospital reforms in China: towards a model of new public management?
Authors: Mei Jixia , Kirkpatrick Ian
Published: March 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore how far plans to “modernize” hospital management in China are converging toward a global model of new public management (NPM) or represent a distinctive pathway.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper draws on a systematic review of available secondary sources published in English and Chinese to describe both the nature and trajectory of hospital management reforms in China.

Findings

In China, while public hospital reforms bear many of the hallmarks of the NPM, they are distinctive in two key respects. First, the thrust of current reforms is to partially reverse, not extend, the trend toward marketization in order to strengthen the public orientation of public hospitals. Second is a marked gap between the rhetoric and reality of empowering managers and freeing them from political control.

Practical implications

This paper develops a framework for understanding the drivers and obstacles to hospital management reforms in China that is useful for managers, clinicians and policy makers.

Originality/value

In China, few authors have considered NPM reform in relation to healthcare. This paper contributes in better understanding current reforms taking place in China’s expanding healthcare sector and locates these within broader theoretical and policy debates.
The role of Islamic governance in the reinforcement waqf reporting: SIRC Malaysia case
Authors: Daud Dalila
Published: March 2019

Purpose

Waqf has the quality of perpetuity so waqf properties cannot be sold, bought or given as a gift to others. Therefore, it is necessary to make sure that the property is fully used and properly managed by the Malaysian Islamic councils. To properly manage these properties, it is essential for the councils to have a proper reporting. Unfortunatley, this is not the case in the present situation for waqf. It was found that there is a lack of reporting on waqf matters. The purpose of this paper is to explore how the Islamic governance can contribute to the sufficient and adequate of waqf reporting.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper described what is being practised at present for waqf reporting. A series of Islamic governance literature was proposed in reinforcing waqf reporting.

Findings

This paper fulfils a gap in prior research by discussing several systems in Islamic governance to achieve transparency in waqf reporting. The findings of this paper may provide a significant contribution to any organisation that act as a trustee for waqf.

Practical implications

This paper provides an opportunity for further theoretical approach in defining and describing the role of governance in the reinforcement of waqf reporting. The paper has recommended several strategies towards better governance in Islamic council, and these suggestions can be offered to the councils for improvement.

Social implications

This research will be of interest to policy makers, especially Government and State Government. Given the current debate in Malaysia on the most appropriate forms of regulation for the Islamic sector, this study aims to provide valuable insights into the role of Islamic governance in the system of regulation.

Originality/value

This paper examined several governance system in Islamic governance to be applied in any Islamic organisation. This paper specifically deals governance issue that should be practised by present councils to prevent lack in waqf reporting. This system discusses the ways Islamic councils should perform since the system was originally implemented by a previous, distinguished caliph, Umar Al-Khattab.
The effect of acquisitions on exploration and exploitation in China
Authors: Muratova Yulia , Rigamonti Damiana , Wulff Jesper N.
Published: March 2019

Purpose

The mechanisms of knowledge acquisition and their impact on innovation are particularly relevant in the context of rapidly growing emerging markets. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the relationship between firm acquisition characteristics and post-acquisition knowledge exploration and exploitation in the Chinese domestic acquisition market.

Design/methodology/approach

By using patent and company data of 188 domestic Chinese deals completed between 2002 and 2013, the paper replicates the measurements and analytical methods of the US-based study by Phene, Tallman and Almeida (2012) to address the acquirer’s opportunity to explore and/or exploit external knowledge, its ability to absorb and effectively assimilate such knowledge and thus establish innovations in new technologies.

Findings

The paper finds support for a positive effect of knowledge uniqueness of the target on the bidder’s post-acquisition exploration. The findings also support that the post-acquisition exploitation is facilitated by the commonality of technological knowledge between the bidder and the target, a result that, although expected, was not be supported in the US-based study.

Originality/value

This paper qualifies the generalizability of US-based findings about post-acquisition exploration and exploitation in the context of China. It also responds to the call for China-focused knowledge management research by capturing innovation capability building by Chinese firms through domestic acquisitions. Finally, it contributes to the nascent literature on replication in management studies.
Affecting emergency department oxycodone discharge prescribing: An educational intervention
Authors: Kline Taylor V , Savage Rina L , Greenslade Jaimi H , Lock Caitlin L , Pattullo Champika , Bell Anthony J
Published: March 2019

Objective

To describe the impact of an educational intervention for ED prescribers on discharge oxycodone prescribing both for the number of oxycodone prescriptions per 1000 discharged patients, and the number of tablets per prescription. Secondary outcomes included the quality of general practitioner communication.

Methods

An interrupted time series assessment was conducted in the ED of a tertiary referral hospital to establish the pre‐intervention, peri‐intervention and post‐intervention prescribing profile of ED medical practitioners. Prescriber numbers were used to obtain drug data for all oxycodone‐containing prescriptions from the Queensland Health Medicines Regulation and Quality Unit database. The intervention included education sessions, a staff information email, posters within the ED, and a patient brochure. It was conducted with relevant nurses, pharmacists and prescribing doctors.

Results

In the pre‐intervention period, 656/17 371 (38 per 1000) discharged patients were prescribed oxycodone, compared to 180/5938 (30 per 1000) during the intervention, and 602/20 505 (29 per 1000) post‐intervention. This equated to a decrease of 8 per 1000 (95% CI 5–12 per 1000) and a 22% (95% CI 13–31%) relative prescribing reduction. The mean total number of tablets of oxycodone per prescription decreased from 16.7 (SD 16.5) pre‐intervention, to 12.7 (SD 6.0) peri‐intervention, to 10.7 (SD 5.2) post‐intervention. After the intervention, there was an increase in discharge communications to general practitioners by 15.4% (95% CI 9.7–21.1%).

Conclusions

An ED prescriber‐targeted intervention reduced overall prescribing of oxycodone and improved communication at discharge. The prescribing intervention is one strategy that may be used by ED medical staff to improve patient safety and opioid stewardship in Australia.
Review article: Accelerated starvation of childhood: Have I judged ketones?
Authors: Millar Robert , Harding Anton
Published: March 2019

Acute ketosis is an important physiological mechanism to prevent irreversible neurological damage from hypoglycaemia during starvation, and represents a significant metabolic stress. A cohort of children adapt to relatively short periods of reduced caloric intake by generating large quantities of ketone bodies. When excessive, the gastrointestinal symptoms of starvation ketosis such as nausea and pain may create a vicious cycle that delays spontaneous resolution. The presence of ketones can be dismissed as a normal feature of childhood metabolism, sometimes even when extreme. A broader understanding of this process under the banner of ‘accelerated starvation of childhood’ is helpful for clinicians managing acute illness in children. We advocate that children less than 7 years of age with a history suggestive of accelerated starvation of childhood should be screened by emergency clinicians for ketosis using a simple and cheap bedside capillary test, even if glucose levels are greater than 2.6 mmol/L. Identification and appropriate management of ketosis may alleviate the distressing gastrointestinal symptoms associated with many minor illnesses, and potentially prevent hypoglycaemia in some children. Appropriate advice to carers may be helpful to prevent further episodes. Illustrative case examples from our own practice are provided.
International experience, attitudes toward women and the adoption of supportive HR practices
Authors: Biswas Kumar , Boyle Brendan , Mitchell Rebecca
Published: March 2019

Underpinned by upper echelons theory, this study examines a mediated model to understand the link between human resource (HR) managers’ international experience and the adoption of supportive HR practices, and whether their attitudes towards women as managers and anticipated affective reactions mediate this link. Structural equation modelling based on a sample of 183 organisations in Bangladesh reveals that HR managers’ international experience has both direct and indirect effects on theadoption of supportive HR practices. Our findings indicate that the extent to which supportive HR practices are implemented in the organisation is contingent upon the cognitive and affective evaluation of managers’ attitudes towards the initiative of a gender‐balanced top management team. Therefore, our study offers novel contributions to our understanding of how HR mangers’ attitudes shape the adoption of supportive HR practices in organisations.
Complete resection of primary pulmonary malignancy extending into the left atrium via the left pulmonary vein using cardiopulmonary bypass and single incision: A case series
Authors: Do Young Woo , Lee Youngok , Kim Gun‐Jik , Cho Joon Yong , Lee Deok Heon
Published: March 2019

If the best treatment for a patient with a primary pulmonary tumor extending into the left atrium via the left pulmonary vein is surgical resection, it is necessary to determine the appropriate approach, that is, whether cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) or complete resection, would be more suitable. Lung resections under CPB are rarely performed because of the unpredictable prognosis. We report two successful cases of safe and rapid complete resection of primary pulmonary malignancy extending into the left atrium with the support of CPB via median sternotomy. Our experiences support the application of CPB in extended left pulmonary resections to achieve complete resection.
Glycine supplementation extends lifespan of male and female mice
Authors: Miller Richard A. , Harrison David E. , Astle C. Michael , Bogue Molly A. , Brind Joel , Fernandez Elizabeth , Flurkey Kevin , Javors Martin , Ladiges Warren , Leeuwenburgh Christiaan , Macchiarini Francesca , Nelson James , Ryazanov Alexey G. , Snyder Jessica , Stearns Timothy M. , Vaughan Douglas E. , Strong Randy
Published: March 2019

Diets low in methionine extend lifespan of rodents, though through unknown mechanisms. Glycine can mitigate methionine toxicity, and a small prior study has suggested that supplemental glycine could extend lifespan of Fischer 344 rats. We therefore evaluated the effects of an 8% glycine diet on lifespan and pathology of genetically heterogeneous mice in the context of the Interventions Testing Program. Elevated glycine led to a small (4%–6%) but statistically significant lifespan increase, as well as an increase in maximum lifespan, in both males (p = 0.002) and females (p < 0.001). Pooling across sex, glycine increased lifespan at each of the three independent sites, with significance at p = 0.01, 0.053, and 0.03, respectively. Glycine‐supplemented females were lighter than controls, but there was no effect on weight in males. End‐of‐life necropsies suggested that glycine‐treated mice were less likely than controls to die of pulmonary adenocarcinoma (p = 0.03). Of the 40 varieties of incidental pathology evaluated in these mice, none were increased to a significant degree by the glycine‐supplemented diet. In parallel analyses of the same cohort, we found no benefits from TM5441 (an inhibitor of PAI‐1, the primary inhibitor of tissue and urokinase plasminogen activators), inulin (a source of soluble fiber), or aspirin at either of two doses. Our glycine results strengthen the idea that modulation of dietary amino acid levels can increase healthy lifespan in mice, and provide a foundation for further investigation of dietary effects on aging and late‐life diseases.
Lansoprazole inhibits the cysteine protease legumain by binding to the active site
Authors: Bosnjak Tatjana , Solberg Rigmor , Hemati Paya Diana , Jafari Abbas , Kassem Moustapha , Johansen Harald Thidemann
Published: March 2019

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are prodrugs used in the treatment of peptic ulcer diseases. Once activated by acidic pH, the PPIs subsequently inhibit the secretion of gastric acid by covalently forming disulphide bonds with the SH groups of the parietal proton pump, that is the H+/K+‐ATPase. Long‐term use of PPIs has been associated with numerous adverse effects, including bone fractures. Considering the mechanism of activation, PPIs could also be active in acidic micro‐environments such as in lysosomes, tumours and bone resorption sites. We suggested that the SH group in the active site of cysteine proteases could be susceptible for inhibition by PPIs. In this study, the inhibition by lansoprazole was shown on the cysteine proteases legumain and cathepsin B by incubating purified proteases or cell lysates with lansoprazole at different concentrations and pH conditions. The mechanism of legumain inhibition was shown to be a direct interaction of lansoprazole with the SH group in the active site, and thus blocking binding of the legumain‐selective activity‐based probe MP‐L01. Lansoprazole was also shown to inhibit both legumain and cathepsin B in various cell models like HEK293, monoclonal legumain over‐expressing HEK293 cells (M38L) and RAW264.7 macrophages, but not in human bone marrow‐derived skeletal (mesenchymal) stem cells (hBMSC‐TERT). During hBMSC‐TERT differentiation to osteoblasts, lansoprazole inhibited legumain secretion, alkaline phosphatase activity, but had no effects on in vitro mineralization capacity. In conclusion, lansoprazole acts as a direct covalent inhibitor of cysteine proteases via disulphide bonds with the SH group in the protease active site. Such inhibition of cysteine proteases could explain some of the off‐target effects of PPIs.
Clinical toxicology of beta‐blocker overdose in adults
Authors: Lauterbach Michael
Published: March 2019

Beta‐blocker overdose is potentially harmful due to the strong blood pressure‐lowering and heart rate‐lowering effects. However, conflicting data exist as to their differential toxicity, single‐substance exposures and the effect of co‐exposure with additional antihypertensive medication. For this, a 10‐year retrospective, explorative analysis of the Mainz Poison Center/Germany database with regard to circumstances of beta‐blocker exposure, doses, symptoms and treatment was carried out. Analyses were restricted to adult patients with single‐substance exposures and co‐exposures with one additional antihypertensive substance. Written follow‐up information was obtained in half the cases. A total of 2967 cases were analysed, of which 697 were single‐substance exposures. Metoprolol was most frequently reported followed by bisoprolol, atenolol, propranolol and sotalol. Metoprolol showed a linear dose‐symptom relationship, whereas propranolol and sotalol seemed to have a threshold dose beyond which symptoms aggravated. Symptoms did not differ substantially, except for more seizures being reported with propranolol, and more CNS depression/vomiting with sotalol. Activated charcoal was used in 38%, gastric lavage in 11%, temporary pacemaker in 3%, glucagon in 1%, intubation for respiratory insufficiency and cardiopulmonary resuscitation in 1% and 0.5%. All patients recovered. In 174 co‐exposure cases, the distribution of poisoning severity and rate of worsening of symptoms was comparable with single‐substance exposures except one patient deceased after bisoprolol and verapamil co‐exposure. In adults with beta‐blocker overdose, no significant differences in poisoning severity among beta‐blockers were detected, and no fatalities were observed with single‐substance exposures. Co‐exposures with other antihypertensives, sedatives or alcohol should be carefully attended to as fatalities might occur.
All by myself? Meta‐analysis of animal contests shows stronger support for self than for mutual assessment models
Authors: Pinto Nelson S. , Palaoro Alexandre V. , Peixoto Paulo E. C.
Published: March 2019

Since the 1970's, models based on evolutionary game theory, such as war of attrition (WOA), energetic war of attrition (E‐WOA), cumulative assessment model (CAM) and sequential assessment model (SAM), have been widely applied to understand how animals settle contests. Despite the important theoretical advances provided by these models, empirical evidence indicates that rules adopted by animals to settle contests vary among species. This stimulated recent discussions about the generality and applicability of models of contest. A meta‐analysis may be helpful to answer questions such as: (i) is there a common contest rule to settle contests; (ii) do contest characteristics, such as the occurrence of physical contact during the fight, influence the use of specific contest rules; and (iii) is there a phylogenetic signal behind contest rules? To answer these questions, we gathered information on the relationship between contest duration and traits linked to contestants' resource holding potential (RHP) for randomly paired rivals and RHP‐matched rivals. We also gathered behavioural data about contest escalation and RHP asymmetry. In contests between randomly paired rivals, we found a positive relationship between contest duration and loser RHP but did not find any pattern for winners. We also found a low phylogenetic signal and a similar response for species that fight with and without physical contact. In RHP‐matched rivals, we found a positive relationship between contest duration and the mean RHP of the pair. Finally, we found a negative relation between contest escalation and RHP asymmetry, even though it was more variable than the other results. Our results thus indicate that rivals settle contests following the rules predicted by WOA and E‐WOA in most species. However, we also found inconsistencies between the behaviours exhibited during contests and the assumptions of WOA models in most species. We discuss additional (and relatively untested) theoretical possibilities that may be explored to resolve the existing inconsistencies.
Prevalence of cognitive impairment in patients with substance use disorder
Authors: Bruijnen Carolien J. W. H. , Dijkstra Boukje A. G. , Walvoort Serge J. W. , Markus Wiebren , VanDerNagel Joanne E. L. , Kessels Roy P. C. , DE Jong Cornelis A. J.
Published: March 2019

Introduction and Aims

Cognitive impairments in substance use disorder predict treatment outcome and are assumed to differ between substances. They often go undetected, thus the current study focuses on the prevalence of and differences in cognitive functioning across substances by means of a cognitive screen at the early stage of addiction treatment.

Design and Methods

The Montreal Cognitive Assessment was administered to outpatients seeking treatment for substance use disorder. Patient characteristics (age, years of regular use, polysubstance use, severity of dependence/abuse, depression, anxiety and stress) were also taken into account.

Results

A total of 656 patients were included (n = 391 used alcohol, n = 123 used cannabis, n = 100 used stimulants and n = 26 used opioids). The prevalence of cognitive impairments was 31%. Patients using alcohol had a lower total‐ and memory domain score than those using cannabis. Patients using opioids scored lower on visuospatial abilities than those using cannabis or stimulants. Younger patients scored higher than older patients. No effect was found for the other investigated characteristics.

Discussion and Conclusions

Given the high prevalence of cognitive impairments, standard screening at an early stage of treatment is important to determine the course of treatment and maximise treatment outcome. Caution is needed in interpreting results about opioids due to an underrepresentation of this patient group, and more research is needed on the effect of age on Montreal Cognitive Assessment performance.
New forms of industrial policy in the age of regulation: A comparison of electricity and telecommunications in Italy and Spain
Authors: Bulfone Fabio
Published: March 2019

Relying on insights from the comparative capitalism debate, this article compares the industrial policy strategies implemented by the Italian and Spanish governments to favor the internationalization of domestic electricity and telecommunications incumbents. It is shown how the cross‐sectoral and cross‐country variation in the outcome of their industrial policy efforts—that is, successful or unsuccessful internationalization—is explained by the reciprocal power relationship between governments and domestic large shareholders (“blockholders”). Successful internationalization is conditional on the availability of two power resources the government can use to influence blockholders' behavior: ownership power and regulatory power. When these resources were available, governments were able to impose a stable ownership structure on national champions, leading to successful internationalization. When they were not available, ownership instability led to failure. The findings presented here contribute to the debate on new forms of state involvement in the economy in the neoliberal era.
Promoting positive and safe care in forensic mental health inpatient settings: Evaluating critical factors that assist nurses to reduce the use of restrictive practices
Authors: Barr Lesley , Wynaden Dianne , Heslop Karen
Published: March 2019

Reducing and eliminating the use of restrictive practices, such as seclusion and restraint, is a national priority for Australia's mental health services. Whilst legislation, organization and practice changes have all contributed to a reduction in these practices, forensic mental health services continue to report high rates. This paper details the findings of research that examined the experiences of nurses working in the inpatient forensic mental health setting. The research aimed to (i) document the experiences of nurses working in the forensic mental health setting, (ii) articulate their perceived unique skill set to manage challenging patient behaviours, and (iii) determine how their experiences and skill set can inform practice changes to reduce the use of restrictive practices. Thirty‐two nurses were recruited from one Australian forensic mental health service. Data were collected using semi‐structured interviews and analysed using inductive content analysis. Four categories were identified that influenced practice experiences: (i) working in a challenging but interesting environment, (ii) specialty expertize, (iii) exposure to aggression and resilience as a protective factor, and (iv) the importance of effective teamwork and leadership. Forensic mental health care is complex, highly specialized, and often delivered in an unpredictable environment. Whilst high rates of restrictive practices may be linked to the unique characteristics of forensic patients, training, teamwork, and leadership are critical factors influencing their use in this setting. Nurses working in this area need to be educated and supported to work confidently and safely with this high‐risk patient cohort.
‘There's just no flexibility’: How space and time impact mental health consumer research
Authors: Scholz Brett , Gordon Sarah , Bocking Julia , Liggins Jackie , Ellis Peter , Roper Cath , Platania‐Phung Chris , Happell Brenda
Published: March 2019

Non‐consumer researchers collaborating with consumer researchers can benefit from greater relevance of research and improved congruence between research processes and health policy. As with all research collaborations, such partnerships are both constrained and facilitated by research ecosystems. However, it seems that collaborations with consumer researchers are impacted in particular ways by the research ecosystem. Drawing on ecological systems theory, this study aims to improve understandings of how ecological structures impact collaborations between non‐consumer and consumer researchers. Interviews were conducted with 11 non‐consumer researchers from a range of mental health disciplines about their experiences collaborating with consumer researchers. One theme developed through analysis of the data set related to the research ecosystem. Data from this theme were extracted and discursively analysed using the principles of discursive psychology. Findings emphasize distinct factors that influence collaborations at each level of the ecosystem, encompassing both local research culture and broader research systems. Findings suggest that external pressures (such as deadlines for funding applications, or bureaucratic processes) from the broader ecosystemic levels need to be challenged at the local collaboration level. Non‐consumer researchers might support collaborations through, for instance, working to create enhanced flexibility in research timelines, or making time for relationship building, thus fostering more meaningful collaborations.
Autologous lipotransfer for bone defects secondary to osteomyelitis: A report of a novel method and systematic review of the literature
Authors: Reinisch Katharina B. , Zuk Grzegorz , Raptis Dimitri A. , Bueter Marco , Guggenheim Merlin , Stasch Tilman , Palma Adrian F.
Published: March 2019

Autologous bone grafting is the gold standard in patients with bone defects but is associated with significant pain and donor site morbidity. Autologous lipotransfer (fat grafting or lipofilling) has become very popular in the therapy of chronic wounds. Mesenchymal stem cells from adipose tissue are known for their regenerative, reparative, and immunomodulatory effects. This case study and review evaluates the use of autologous lipotransfer for chronic osteomyelitis in a 26‐year‐old patient. A 26‐year‐old female suffering from chronic tibial osteomyelitis was initially treated with surgical debridement and antibiotics followed by lipoharvest and autologous lipofilling. MRI and computed tomography scans were performed at 2 and 6 weeks and 6 months postoperatively. A formal systematic review of clinical trials investigating autologous lipotransfer for osteomyelitis was conducted. The patient remained asymptomatic without recurrence, and the bone defect cavity showed vascularised adipose tissue after 6 weeks, with early signs of osteogenesis. The highest foot and ankle disability index was 100. The systematic review identified 266 studies after duplicates were removed. After screening for eligibility, seven manuscripts were further assessed, with none meeting the inclusion criteria. This is the first study to report the successful use of autologous lipotransfer with early signs of osteogenesis in a patient suffering from chronic osteomyelitis. Autologous lipotransfer is relatively simple, safe, and minimally invasive, making it a potential alternative to current treatments. Further research is required to assess the safety, feasibility, and efficacy of autologous fat grafting and the mechanism of osteogenesis.
Assessing psychosocial profile in the physical therapy setting
Authors: Van Wyngaarden Joshua J. , Noehren Brian , Archer Kristin R.
Published: March 2019

Purpose

Physical therapists play a crucial role in managing persistent pain and disability. Since psychosocial factors are important predictors of poor patient outcomes, it is essential that clinicians understand how to utilize validated instruments to assess psychosocial profile in the clinical setting. The following article reviews the psychometric properties and clinical application of the Keele Subgroups for Targeted Treatment Back Screening Tool (SBT), Optimal Screening for Prediction of Referral and Outcome Yellow Flag (OSPRO‐YF), Pain Catastrophizing Scale (PCS), Tampa Scale of Kinesiophobia (TSK), Pain Self‐Efficacy Questionnaire (PSEQ), and Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ).

Results

Multidimensional screening tools, such as the SBT and OSPRO‐YF, are useful prognostic indicators of long‐term disability and the presence of yellow flags that may be contributing to patient presentation, respectively. This can guide both the treatment and administration of specific, unidimensional psychosocial assessment tools. The following cutoffs are identified as moderate elevation of psychosocial profile which can be used to inform clinical practice: PCS ≥20, TSK >37, PSEQ ≥40, and PHQ‐9 ≥10.

Conclusion

Valid and reliable unidimensional and multidimensional psychosocial assessment tools provide important prognostic information to inform a patient's psychosocial profile and subsequently improve clinical efficiency and patient outcomes.
Temperature‐induced developmental plasticity in Plodia interpunctella: Reproductive behaviour and sperm length
Authors: Iossa Graziella , Maury Chloris , Fletcher Rachel M. , Eady Paul E.
Published: March 2019

In both plants and animals, male gametogenesis is particularly sensitive to heat stress, to the extent that a single hot or cold day can compromise crop productivity or population persistence. In animals, heat stress during development can impact a male's ability to secure copulations and/or his post‐copulatory fertility. Despite such observations, relatively few studies have examined the consequences of developmental temperature on the reproductive behaviour and physiology of individuals. Here, we report for the first time the effects of developmental temperature on the phenotypic expression of both apyrene and eupyrene sperm and the copulatory behaviour of the Indian meal moth, Plodia interpunctella. We show that the length of both apyrene and eupyrene sperm decreases with increasing developmental temperature and that males are less likely to engage in copulation when reared at the highest and lowest temperatures. Where copulation occurred, the duration of copula decreased as male developmental temperature increased. We argue that identification of the mechanisms and consequences of reproductive failure in animals facing heat stress will help understand how wild and domesticated populations will respond to global climate change. We also contend that such studies will help elucidate long‐standing evolutionary questions around the maintenance of genetic variation in traits highly relevant to fitness and the role of phenotypic plasticity in driving the evolution of novel traits.
DO INVESTORS CARE ABOUT PRESIDENTIAL COMPANY‐SPECIFIC TWEETS?
Authors: Ge Qi , Kurov Alexander , Wolfe Marketa Halova
Published: March 2019

When the president of the United States tweets, do investors respond? We analyze the impact of tweets from President Donald J. Trump's official Twitter accounts from November 9, 2016 to December 31, 2017 that include names of publicly traded companies. We find that these tweets move company stock prices and increase trading volume, volatility, and institutional investor attention, with a stronger impact before the presidential inauguration. There is some evidence that the initial impact of the presidential tweets on stock prices is reversed in the next few trading days.
Brief versus Thong Hygiene in Obstetrics and Gynecology (B‐THONG): A survey study
Authors: Hamlin Alyssa A. , Sheeder Jeanelle , Muffly Tyler M.
Published: March 2019

Aim

The aim of this study was to evaluate if thong use is associated with a higher report of urogenital infections, including urinary tract infections, yeast vaginitis and bacterial vaginosis.

Methods

A cross‐sectional survey regarding underwear preferences and infectious history was designed and distributed to women via a crowdsourcing service. All survey questions related to the last 12 months. Parametric and nonparametric statistical methods were used to compare responses between thong wearers and nonthong wearers. Thong wearers were defined as women who wore a thong equal to or more than 50 % of the time.

Results

Nine hundred and eighty‐six respondents met inclusion criteria and completed the survey; 186 (18.9%) were defined as thong wearers and 800 (81.1%) were defined as nonthong wearers in the last 12 months. Reported rates of urogenital infections in the last 12 months were not significantly different for thong wearers versus nonthong wearers. Thong use was not an independent predictor of any urogenital infection in this study.

Conclusion

In this large cross‐sectional study we found that oral sex was the only independent predictor of urinary tract infection and bacterial vaginosis, and that wearing noncotton crotch underwear was associated with yeast vaginitis. Wearing thong underwear was not associated with any urogenital infections. Medical providers should discuss sexual practices and underwear fabric, rather than style, with their patients when there is concern for urogenital infection.
Effect of mode of delivery on female sexual function: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Saleh Doaa M. , Hosam Fatma , Mohamed Taiseer M.
Published: March 2019

Aim

A growing body of evidence has suggested a significant impact of mode of delivery on female sexual function. In the present study, we aimed to investigate the effect of mode of delivery on postpartum sexual function.

Methods

We conducted a cross‐sectional study on 684 women during their first year after their first delivery. The sexual function of the included women was assessed using the Arabic version of the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI). Data analysis was carried out using SPSS version 22 for Microsoft Windows.

Results

The present study included 684 primiparous women, in which 320 women had a history of vaginal delivery (VD0 and 364 women had a history of Cesarean section (CS). In terms of FSFI items, women with a history of CS had statistically significant higher FSFI total score than women with VD (31.34 ± 3.8 vs 30.23 ± 3.6, respectively; P < 0.001). Moreover, patients with more than 6 months since birth had a statistically significant higher total FSFI score than patients with less than 6 months since birth (30.97 ± 3.5 vs 29.97 ± 3.5, respectively; P < 0.001). However, the difference was clinically subtle. In addition, women who breastfed their babies had statistically significant lower total FSFI score than women who used artificial methods of lactation (29.61 ± 4.2 vs 30.27 ± 3.3, respectively; P < 0.001).

Conclusion

In conclusion, the present study showed that the mode of delivery was not clinically associated with clinical impairment in sexual function within 1 year after delivery, despite the statistically significant difference. It is recommended that the decision to perform CS should not rely on the fear of the risk of postpartum sexual dysfunction.
Regulation and altruism
Authors: Jelovac Izabela , Kembou Nzale Samuel
Published: March 2019

We study optimal contracts in a regulator–agent setting with joint production, altruistic and selfish agents, limited liability, and uneasy outcome measurement. Such a setting represents sectors of activities such as education and healthcare provision. The agents and the regulator jointly produce an outcome for which they all care to some extent that is varying from agent to agent. Some agents, the altruistic ones, care more than the regulator does while others, the selfish agents, care less. Moral hazard is present due to both the agent's effort and the joint outcome that are not contractible. Adverse selection is present too since the regulator cannot a priori distinguish between altruistic and selfish agents. Contracts consist of a simple transfer from the regulator to the agents together with the regulator's input in the joint production. We show that, under the conditions of our setting and when we face both moral hazard and adverse selection, the regulator maximizes welfare with a menu of contracts, which specify higher transfers for the altruistic agents and higher regulator's inputs for the selfish agents.