bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Re: duplication of corporate governance codes and the dilemma of firms with dual regulatory jurisdictions
Authors: Bello Lawal
Published: June 2016

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the evolution of corporate governance in Nigeria and how the duplication of code of corporate best practices is impacting compliance with the key recommendations of these guidelines. The issues of corporate governance and reforms especially those related to the development and implementation of code of corporate best practices have been a subject of academic discuss over the years with more research emphasis placed on developed economies. This paper intends to add the sub-Sahara Africa and the emerging economic perspective to this vibrant stream of research.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper adopts an explanatory approach in the review of the four different codes of corporate governance that were issued in Nigeria in the past ten years.

Findings

The paper demonstrated that corporate governance has been a fundamental issue of concern in Nigerian public enterprises since the country gained independence in 1960. The paper equally established that the application of recent corporate governance reforms has been challenged, not on competency grounds but rather by the proliferation of codes which have created implementation and monitoring difficulties for both the affected firms and the regulatory agencies.

Originality/value

Unlike other previous studies, this paper offers comprehensive analysis of corporate governance evolution in Nigeria and found through documented literatures that shortage of experienced local personnel and the absence of effective external control mechanisms have been the bane against the development of corporate governance in Nigeria. The originality of this paper also lies in being the first paper to have linked developments in the public enterprises to the renewed focus on corporate governance. This is the most inclusive paper to have identified key implications of multiplicity of corporate governance codes and the direct application of governance system within the context of the country’s socio-cultural distinctiveness.
Board director disciplinary and cognitive influence on corporate value creation
Authors: Toumi Nadia , Benkraiem Ramzi , Hamrouni Amal
Published: June 2016

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate board director disciplinary and cognitive influence on corporate value creation.

Design/methodology/approach

Fixed-effect regressions are used to check whether gender diversity, education, independence and size of the board of directors affect measures of corporate value creation.

Findings

The empirical results show that corporate value creation is positively influenced by the cross effect of the board independence and the presence of women. They also point out a positive impact of the cross effect of board independence and management education. They reveal that the board of directors contributes significantly to corporate value creation, particularly when there is a mix of independent, female and management-qualified directors.

Originality/value

The evidence presented and discussed in this paper should be of interest to managers and regulators. The methodological approach and the empirical results extend the existing literature. They enrich the limited empirical research devoted to this theme, especially in a continental European context, i.e. France. They shed light on the effect of board of directors’ disciplinary and cognitive influence on corporate value creation.
Why are couples fighting? A need frustration perspective on relationship conflict and dissatisfaction
Authors: Vanhee Gaëlle , Lemmens Gilbert M. D. , Stas Lara , Loeys Tom , Verhofstadt Lesley L.
Published: June 2016

The present study investigated whether partners’ frustration of relational needs for autonomy, competence, and relatedness was associated with relationship dissatisfaction and conflict (frequency, topics, communication patterns). Self‐report measures were completed by 230 committed heterosexual couples. APIM and regression analyses revealed that (1) need frustration is associated with how dissatisfied partners are with their relationship, how frequently they initiate conflict, and how they communicate during conflicts, but not with the number of conflict topics; (2) relatedness‐frustration matters most, whereas only limited evidence was found for autonomy‐ and competence‐frustration; (3) both one's own and one's partner's need frustration play a role in dissatisfaction and conflict; and (4) although most of the results were consistent across gender, gender differences were found for how need frustration affects couples’ conflict communication. Therapeutic implications are discussed.

Practitioner points

Addressing need frustration in couples may help to reduce relationship dissatisfaction, conflict, and destructive conflict communication

Therapists should especially focus on relatedness‐frustration of men and women, but also pay attention to their autonomy‐frustration

Destructive conflict communication patterns in couples reflect relatedness‐frustration in both men and women and autonomy‐ and competence‐frustration in men.
BJOG Editor's Choice: Intimate partner violence destroys love like tears blur clear vision
Authors: Khan Khalid S
Published: June 2016

Editor‐in‐Chief, Professor Khalid Khan, discusses his top articles from this issue in an audio podcast available at https://soundcloud.com/bjog/july-editors-choice-2016.
Chlorogenic Acid Oxidation and Its Reaction with Sunflower Proteins to Form Green‐Colored Complexes
Authors: Wildermuth Sabrina R. , Young Erin E. , Were Lilian M.
Published: June 2016

Sunflower seeds are used to produce oil for human consumption, but its protein meal by‐product has long been used as animal feed. Formation of green‐colored complexes through oxidized chlorogenic acid(CGA)‐protein interactions is a primary reason why defatted sunflower protein has not been widely utilized by the food industry. Sunflower protein possesses many properties that make it an appealing alternative protein source from both a marketing and formulation perspective, including its low cost, absence of major allergens, low antitrypsin inhibitors, and its status as both vegan and “clean” label friendly. With the global demand for sunflower oil and novel protein sources expected to increase and waste recovery a concern for many, providing uses for the sunflower meal and its fiber and polyphenol components would provide added value to by‐products from sunflower oil processing. This review addresses the unique green pigmentation associated with the interaction of sunflower protein and oxidized CGA by outlining the sunflower oil and protein meal market, CGA reactions contributing to greening, methods for CGA extraction, and the effect of processing on sunflower protein quality and the greening reaction. This review also addresses potential food applications of sunflower protein‐based ingredients, such as addition of texturized protein to food products; a microencapsulation matrix for antioxidants; edible, flexible biodegradable films; and even use of sunflower butter as an alternative to peanut butter where the green color is not considered undesirable. Continued studies are needed to make sunflower‐based products and CGA‐extraction processes available across the global marketplace.
Temporal Check‐All‐That‐Apply Characterization of Syrah Wine
Authors: Baker Allison K. , Castura John C. , Ross Carolyn F.
Published: June 2016

Temporal Check‐All‐That‐Apply (TCATA) is a new dynamic sensory method for which analysis techniques are still being developed and optimized. In this study, TCATA methodology was applied for the evaluation of wine finish by trained panelists (n = 13) on Syrah wines with different ethanol concentrations (10.5% v/v and 15.5% v/v). Raw data were time standardized to create a percentage of finish duration, subsequently segmented into thirds (beginning, middle, and end) to capture panel perception. Results indicated the finish of the high ethanol treatments lasted longer (approximately 12 s longer) than the low ethanol treatment (P ≤ 0.05). Within each finish segment, Cochran's Q was conducted on each attribute and differences were detected amongst treatments (P ≤ 0.05). Pairwise tests showed the high ethanol treatments were more described by astringency, heat/ethanol burn, bitterness, dark fruit, and spices, whereas the low ethanol treatment was more characterized by sourness, red fruit, and green flavors (P ≤ 0.05). This study demonstrated techniques for dealing with the data generated by TCATA. Furthermore, this study further characterized the influence of ethanol on wine finish, and by extension wine quality, with implications to winemakers responsible for wine processing decisions involving alcohol management.
Non‐Nuclear Weapons States Must Lead in Shaping International Norms on Nuclear Weapons: A Practitioner Commentary
Authors: Chan Maritza
Published: June 2016

Nuclear weapons States continue to defy their responsibilities for achieving nuclear, as well as general and complete, disarmament while they simultaneously hold non‐nuclear States to their non‐proliferation commitments. Costa Rica is part of that non‐nuclear armed majority. We take a firm stand that the lack of legal prohibition of nuclear weapons constitutes a legal anomaly among weapons of mass destruction. As such, Costa Rica is committed to encouraging negotiations towards a treaty establishing new legal obligations to ban nuclear weapons once and for all. The time has come for a new era of nuclear politics in which the non‐nuclear majority of States can lead the way in charting the course towards a non‐nuclear world.
Keratoacanthoma formation after skin grafting: A brief report and pathophysiological hypothesis
Authors: Lee Senhong , Coutts Ian , Ryan Andrew , Stavrakoglou Anastasios
Published: June 2016

Keratoacanthoma formation after skin grafting is rare. We report the third case in the literature of multiple keratoacanthomas developed at both split‐thickness skin graft donor and recipient sites. We provide possible explanations for this poorly understood phenomenon and highlight its implications on treatment options.
Systemic lupus erythematosus associated with myasthenia gravis, pemphigus foliaceus and chronic thyroiditis after thymectomy
Authors: Sawamura Soichiro , Kajihara Ikko , Makino Katsunari , Makino Takamitsu , Fukushima Satoshi , Jinnin Masatoshi , Oyama Bungo , Hashimoto Takashi , Ihn Hironobu
Published: June 2016

A 65‐year‐old woman had undergone a thymectomy for thymoma and 1 year after surgery she developed scattered erosive erythema with scaling and crusting. Examination findings exhibited the elevation of anti‐dsDNA antibody, anti‐desmoglein 1 antibody, anti‐acetylcholine receptor antibody and anti‐thyroglobulin antibody. A skin biopsy showed intraepidermal blisters containing neutrophils and acantholytic keratinocytes and direct immunofluorescence revealed the deposition of immunoglobulin G in the epidermis and on the basement membrane. These findings indicated the presence of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), myasthenia gravis, pemphigus foliaceus and chronic thyroiditis. Only 1% of SLE patients have three other autoimmune diseases according to previous publications. Our case is rare because she suffered four autoimmune diseases after the thymectomy.
Madura foot caused by Gordonia terrae misdiagnosed as Nocardia
Authors: Zampella John G , Kwatra Shawn G , Kazi Najiya , Aguh Crystal
Published: June 2016

Abstact

Actinomycetomas are soft tissue bacterial infections that are in the differential for unusual masses of the extremities. Typical infectious agents include Actinomyces and Nocardia and are treated with long‐term antibiotics. We report a rare case of Gordonia actinomycetoma that was misdiagnosed as Nocardia and subsequently required surgical excision in addition to antibiotic therapy.
Fuchs’ endothelial corneal dystrophy: a controlled prospective study on visual recovery after endothelial keratoplasty
Authors: Nielsen Esben , Ivarsen Anders , Kristensen Simon , Hjortdal Jesper
Published: June 2016

Purpose

To investigate the determining factors of vision and subjective outcome after Descemet's stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty (DSAEK) for Fuchs’ endothelial dystrophy (FECD).

Methods

In a prospective study, 41 FECD patients who received DSAEK were compared to 40 cataract patients with normal corneas who received cataract surgery (control group). Subjects were recruited between March 2013 and July 2014. Observational procedures included the following: best‐corrected visual acuity (BCVA), contrast sensitivity (CS), Catquest‐9SF questionnaire, Scheimpflug tomography and anterior OCT. Examinations were carried out before surgery and at 3‐, 6‐ and 12‐month follow‐up. Main outcome measures were associations between corneal optics and visual parameters, as well as subjective improvement (Catquest‐9SF effect size)

Results

Best‐corrected visual acuity (BCVA) negatively correlated with anterior higher‐order aberrations (HOA's) (p < 0.001) and central corneal thickness (p = 0.001). Contrast sensitivity (CS) was negatively correlated with anterior HOA's (p = 0.002) and positively correlated with posterior densitometry (p = 0.008). Catquest‐9SF effect size was 1.32 (CI: 1.0–1.6) in the control group, 1.84 (CI: 1.4–2.3) in FECD patients who received phacoemulsification and intra‐ocular lens implantation in combination with DSAEK (n = 26) and 1.37 (CI: 0.6–2.1) in pseudophakic FECD patients who received DSAEK (n = 15).

Conclusions

DSAEK surgery leads to considerable improvement in patient‐reported outcome in FECD patients. There was a strong correlation between anterior HOA's and vision after DSAEK, suggesting that anterior corneal pathology constitutes the major limitation for visual recovery after DSAEK.
Experiences and perspectives of children attending a weight loss camp in China: a qualitative study
Authors: Li X. , Zhou X. , Hesketh T.
Published: June 2016

Background

Modernisation, urbanisation and the globalisation of food markets have exposed Chinese children to an obesogenic environment. With the dramatic increase in the prevalence of overweight and obesity among Chinese children, there are now over 2000 weight loss camps for children. The aim of this study was to investigate how one typical weight loss camp operates and to explore the experiences and perceptions of children attending the camp.

Methods

This study utilised ethnographic techniques and semi‐structured interviews with children attending a 28‐day summer weight loss camp in Hangzhou, China. All children attending at the time of the study were included. Field notes were taken, and interviews with children were recorded, transcribed and analysed into themes.

Results

Nine boys and 10 girls aged 7–18 years with a body mass index ranging from 21 to 37 kg/m2 were interviewed. The weight loss programme combined dietary restriction (<350 calories/meal) and a daily schedule of 8 h of exercise in outdoor temperatures of around 40 °C. Field observation and interviews showed that the regime was distressing for all the children who suffered hunger and exhaustion leading to crying, squabbling, fighting and desperate phone calls to parents. All felt their weight loss could not be sustained.

Conclusions

The extreme conditions and total absence of health and nutrition education at the camp were of great concern. Parents should be aware of the potential dangers and long‐term ineffectiveness of such interventions. At the very least, these camps must be subject to regulation.
Desmoplastic melanoma presenting as primary alopecia neoplastica: a report of two cases
Authors: Erstine Emily M. , Elwood Hillary R. , Westbrook Kent C. , McCalmont Timothy H. , Shalin Sara C. , Gardner Jerad M.
Published: June 2016

Desmoplastic melanoma is an uncommon form of melanoma characterized by atypical spindled melanocytes and abundant collagen deposition. It typically presents in sun‐damaged skin of the elderly as an amelanotic, indurated lesion. It has a higher tendency for local recurrence but lower risk of lymph node metastasis vs. conventional malignant melanoma. We report two cases in women aged 59 and 66 who presented with small scalp lesions clinically suggestive of alopecia. The differential diagnosis included alopecia areata, lupus erythematosus and lichen planopilaris. Biopsies performed according to alopecia protocol were reviewed at our institutions. Biopsies revealed atypical spindled and nested epithelioid melanocytes set in a sclerotic dermis with scattered lymphoid aggregates and immunohistochemical expression of S100 protein, features diagnostic of combined desmoplastic melanoma. Wide local excision with skin graft was performed on the older patient. Excision showed combined desmoplastic melanoma with a Breslow thickness of 8.5 mm with melanoma in situ identified in the adjacent epidermis. The other patient sought treatment elsewhere and was lost to follow up. These cases illustrate desmoplastic melanoma as an unusual etiology and dangerous clinical pitfall in patients with scar‐like alopecia. To the authors' knowledge, these represent the second and third reported cases of desmoplastic melanoma presenting as primary alopecia neoplastica.
Opioid agonist doses for oxycodone and morphine dependence: Findings from a retrospective case series
Authors: Nielsen Suzanne , Bruno Raimondo , Degenhardt Louisa , Demirkol Apo , Lintzeris Nicholas
Published: June 2016

Introduction

Use of opioid agonist treatments for prescription opioid (PO) dependence is rapidly increasing. Current guidelines are based on research with heroin users. This study aimed to examine methadone and buprenorphine dose requirements for PO‐dependent people.

Design and Methods

A retrospective case series of PO‐dependent patients entering methadone and buprenorphine treatment. Daily oral morphine equivalent (OME) doses at baseline were calculated using standard dose conversion calculations. Dose conversion tables were used to estimate opioid agonist doses, based on starting dose of PO. Baseline methadone and buprenorphine dose at days 7 and 28 were examined. Linear models were fit to the data.

Results

Participants (n = 44) were 67% male, mean age 41 years (SD 10 years); 69% reported a pain condition. The methadone group (n = 21) had a mean PO dose of 704.5 mg OME (SD 783.5 mg) prior to treatment, and mean methadone dose of 45.3 mg (SD 13.1 mg) at day 7 and 61.6 mg (SD 20.8 mg) at day 28. The buprenorphine group (n = 23) had a mean PO dose of 771.7 mg OME (SD 867.7 mg) prior to treatment, with a mean dose of 14.6 mg (SD 8.3 mg) at day 7 and 18.1 (SD 8.9 mg) at day 28. Linear relationships were not found between OME and opioid agonist dose.

Conclusions

Opioid agonist dosages varied substantially between individuals, and from predicted dosages based on dose conversion tables. Use of conversion tables to guide selection of opioid agonist dosage may compromise patient safety. [Nielsen S, Bruno R, Degenhardt L, Demirkol A, Lintzeris N. Opioid agonist doses for oxycodone and morphine dependence: Findings from a retrospective case series Drug Alcohol Rev 2017;36:311–316]
Conservative interdisciplinary treatment of a case with multiple facial and condyle fractures
Authors: Lee You‐Sun , Yi Yang‐Jin , Kim Young‐Kyun , Lee Nam‐Ki , Larson Brent E.
Published: June 2016

The purpose of this case report is to describe an interdisciplinary approach for a 51‐year‐old male who underwent multiple facial fractures including bilateral condyle fractures. The patient underwent emergency surgery, which included open reduction of the maxilla and mandibular symphysis and closed reduction of the bilateral condyle fractures. Although the patient recovered a comfortable range of mouth opening and alleviation of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) symptoms after surgery, he suffered from a large anterior–posterior discrepancy due to less stability on the condyle‐fossa relationships and from open bite with contacts only on both second molars and right second premolars. In this case, first, to increase the occlusal contact, comprehensive orthodontic treatment was completed. Second, occlusal equilibration was selectively performed to relieve the interferences and establish a stable range of mandibular movement without any changes in the vertical dimension. Third, both the upper central incisors and left lateral incisor were minimally restored with splinted and single zirconia crowns, which had modified lingual contours to provide adequate anterior guidance permitting the anterior–posterior discrepancy of the posterior teeth during protrusion. This conservative interdisciplinary treatment, including open and closed reduction, orthodontic treatment, occlusal adjustment, and minimal prosthetic restorations, resulted in a stable mandibular position and recovery of mastication function.
Early intervention for incipient insanity: early notions from the 19th century English literature
Authors: Chau Hang Sze , Chong Wai Sun , Wong Josephine Grace Wing San , Hung Gabriel Bing Kei , Lui Simon Sai Yu , Chan Sherry Kit Wa , Chang Wing Chung , Hui Christy Lai Ming , Lee Edwin Ho Ming , McGorry Patrick D. , Jones Peter B. , Chen Eric Yu Hai
Published: June 2016

Aim

Early intervention programmes in mental illnesses started to bloom in the 1990s, and many programmes have been established worldwide during the past twenty years. However, the concept of early intervention has emerged during the 19th century but it did not make much impact on practice. The aim of this review is to identify the difficulties appeared during that period of time which could provide insight into the modern development of early intervention initiatives.

Methods

A narrative review which focused on English literature about early intervention for insanity during the 19th century was undertaken.

Results

Clinicians during the 19th century recognized that treatment would be the most effective at the early stage of the mental illness and they had emphasized the importance of early intervention. However, because of a number of factors, such as the limited roles of asylums, lack of knowledge about mental disorder and the lack of effective treatment, the idea of early intervention did not make impact in clinical service during that period of time.

Conclusion

During the past two hundred years, understanding towards mental illness has advanced and more effective treatments, such as the use of anti‐psychotic medications, have been developed. Reflecting on the past experience and difficulties might shed light on the development of today early intervention in mental disorder.
Predictive value of hypoglycin A and methylencyclopropylacetic acid conjugates in a horse with atypical myopathy in comparison to its cograzing partners
Authors: Bochnia M. , Scheidemann W. , Ziegler J. , Sander J. , Vollstedt S. , Glatter M. , Janzen N. , Terhardt M. , Zeyner A.
Published: June 2016

Hypoglycin A (HGA) was detected in blood and urine of a horse suffering from atypical myopathy (AM; Day 2, serum, 8290 μg/l; urine: Day 1, 574, Day 2, 742 μg/l) and in its cograzing partners with a high variability (46–1570 μg/l serum). Over the period of disease, the level of the toxic metabolites (methylencyclopropylacetic acid [MCPA]‐conjugates) increased in body fluids of the AM horse (MCPA‐carnitine: Day 2, 0.246, Day 3, 0.581 μmol/l serum; MCPA‐carnitine: Day 2, 0.621, Day 3, 0.884 μmol/mmol creatinine in urine) and HGA decreased rapidly (Day 3, 2430 μg/l serum). In cograzing horses MCPA‐conjugates were not detected. HGA in seeds ranged from 268 to 367 μg/g. Although HGA was present in body fluids of healthy cograzing horses, MCPA‐conjugates were not detectable, in contrast to the AM horse. Therefore, increasing concentrations of MCPA‐conjugates are supposed to be linked with the onset of AM and both parameters seem to indicate the clinical stage of disease. However, detection of HGA in body fluids of cograzing horses might be a promising step in preventing the disease.
Molecular determinants of prokaryotic voltage‐gated sodium channels for recognition of local anesthetics
Authors: Shimomura Takushi , Irie Katsumasa , Fujiyoshi Yoshinori
Published: June 2016

Local anesthetics (LAs) inhibit mammalian voltage‐gated Na+ channels (Navs) and are thus clinically important. LAs also inhibit prokaryotic Navs (BacNavs), which have a simpler structure than mammalian Navs. To elucidate the detailed mechanisms of LA inhibition to BacNavs, we used NavBh, a BacNav from Bacillus halodurans, to analyze the interactions of several LAs and quaternary ammoniums (QAs). Based on the chemical similarity of QA with the tertiary‐alkylamine (TAA) group of LAs, QAs were used to determine the residues required for the recognition of TAA by NavBh. We confirmed that two residues, Thr220 and Phe227, are important for LA binding; a methyl group of Thr220 is important for recognizing both QAs and LAs, whereas Phe227 is involved in holding blockers at the binding site. In addition, we found that NavBh holds blockers in a closed state, consistent with the large inner cavity observed in the crystal structures of BacNavs. These findings reveal the inhibition mechanism of LAs in NavBh, where the methyl group of Thr220 provides the main receptor site for the TAA group and the bulky phenyl group of Phe227 holds the blockers inside the large inner cavity. These two residues correspond to the two LA recognition residues in mammalian Navs, which suggests the relevance of the LA recognition between BacNavs and mammalian Navs.
Bergmann's rule in the oceans? Temperature strongly correlates with global interspecific patterns of body size in marine mammals
Authors: Torres‐Romero Erik Joaquín , Morales‐Castilla Ignacio , Olalla‐Tárraga Miguel Á.
Published: June 2016

Aim

Bergmann's rule remains unexplored in marine mammals. We first examine at a global extent whether these organisms show the same interspecific pattern reported for terrestrial mammals and then evaluate the influence of current environmental conditions and human impacts on the observed patterns.

Location

Global.

Methods

We used range maps to document interspecific body size gradients and examined six environmental and human‐based hypotheses. We analysed the data using a comparative cross‐species method and a spatially explicit assemblage approach at three different grain sizes (200 km × 200 km, 400 km × 400 km and 800 km × 800 km). The associations between hypothesis‐linked predictors and body size were analysed through simple and multiple regressions that controlled for both spatial and phylogenetic autocorrelation.

Results

We detected clear global latitudinal body size gradients, following a Bergmannian pattern (i.e. increasing size polewards). Consistently across methodological approaches (cross‐species and assemblage analyses) and grain sizes, sea surface temperature is the best predictor. Spatially, the temperature–size relationship is stronger in the Southern than in the Northern Hemisphere. Pinniped body sizes are critically constrained by temperature world‐wide whereas cetacean size clines show a weaker, albeit dominant, association with temperature.

Main conclusions

As in terrestrial mammals, our findings show that ambient temperature better explains interspecific body size patterns in cetaceans, and especially pinnipeds, world‐wide. Large‐bodied species are favoured in colder environments, in accordance with Bergmann's rule and the heat conservation hypothesis. However, our analyses also reveal a relevant role for salinity and primary productivity in migratory cetacean species. The large body sizes of baleen whales are essential for migration, for survival during fasting periods and minimizing the effects of temperature variation. This finding highlights the importance of spatially and phylogenetically explicit deconstructive approaches, considering alternative hypotheses to the traditional physiological mechanism, to gain a better understanding of Bergmann's rule.
The Europeanization of Nordic Gender Equality: A Foucauldian Analysis of Reconciling Work and Family in Finland
Authors: Eräranta Kirsi , Kantola Johanna
Published: June 2016

In this article, we analyse the case of reconciling work and family as a particularly illuminative example of the effects of soft Europeanization. We focus on one particular policy instrument of the EU, namely projects co‐funded by the European Social Fund (ESF), which have sought to develop family‐friendly arrangements in Finnish workplaces. Our analysis suggests that this soft law instrument can result in significant changes in member states, even in cases where the member state's own policy is well entrenched. Theoretically, our contribution is to connect soft Europeanization to the Foucauldian theory on power, and the literature on Analytics of Government specifically. From this perspective we argue that the ESF development projects function as Foucauldian ‘technologies of involvement’. We find that by stabilizing and normalizing project techniques and managerial rationalities untypical for previous gender equality and work–family policies in the country, the ESF projects in our case partly challenge some established principles of Nordic welfare policies, such as universalism and state responsibility for welfare measures. Moreover, as ESF projects have managed to involve mainly female‐dominated organizations and women as participants, we pose the question whether this kind of soft‐law instrument that trusts the self‐regulation capacities of actors can bring about change in gendered conventions.
Effect of yttrium‐90 radioembolization on outcomes in Asian patients with early to advanced stage hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Woo Hyun Young , Kim Do Young , Heo Jeong , Kim Chang Won , Kim Suk , Yoon Ki Tae , Lim Won , Hong Young Mi , Won Jong Yun , Lee Sangheun , Han Kwang Hyub , Cho Mong
Published: June 2016

Aim

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of yttrium‐90 radioembolization on the outcome of Asian patients with early to advanced stage hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

Methods

Sixty‐two patients were screened and 50 patients (80.6%) were eligible. Response was evaluated using the Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors (RECIST), and overall survival was estimated using the Kaplan–Meier method.

Results

The Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer (BCLC) stage was A in 40% of patients, B in 24%, and C in 36%; 66% of patients had hepatitis B virus infections. According to RECIST criteria, partial responses occurred in 40% of patients, and stable disease was achieved in 46%. Tumor response was significantly associated with BCLC stage (P = 0.003). The median overall time to progression was 5.8 months (range, 0.9–46.1 months). Follow‐up treatments after radioembolization were carried out in 31 patients due to remnant HCC (n = 18) or HCC progression (n = 13). The median overall survival was 40.9 months (95% confidence interval, 10.2–71.6 months). Treatment was tolerable except for one lung toxicity and two hepatic toxicities.

Conclusion

Yttrium‐90 radioembolization appears to be well tolerated and effective in Asian patients with BCLC stage A–C HCC. Follow‐up treatments after radioembolization can be safely provided.
The ‘switch on–switch off model’: Strategies used by nurses to mentally prepare and disengage from work
Authors: Manomenidis Georgios , Panagopoulou Efharis , Montgomery Anthony
Published: June 2016

There is considerable research on the experience of nurses during both their work and non‐work time. However, we know relatively little about the strategies nurses use immediately before and immediately after their shift. This crossover period, from one shift to another, has critical impact for patient outcomes. The aim of this qualitative study was to explore strategies nurses employ to mentally prepare for their shift (switch on), and mentally disengage after the end of it (switch off).

Eleven Greek hospital nurses were recruited for the study. Interviews were audio‐taped and analysed using a content analysis approach.

Five themes were identified as strategies nurses use to mentally prepare and disengage from their shift: (i) personal care/grooming; (ii) religious rituals; (iii) nicotine/caffeine; (iv) social interaction; and (v) listening to music. Nurses reported using the same strategies before and after their shift, but for different purposes.

The authors propose a ‘switch on–switch off’ model to describe the process of mental preparation and mental disengagement from work. The switch‐on/off approach represents an opportunity to increase nurses' resilience and identify individual and organizational factors that contribute to patient outcomes.
Parental presence at anaesthesia induction: A systematic review
Authors: Erhaze Eunice K. , Dowling Maura , Devane Declan
Published: June 2016

This systematic review assessed the effectiveness of parental presence for children undergoing surgical or diagnostic procedures under general anaesthesia (such as bronchoscopy, laryngoscopy and laparoscopy). Randomized and quasi randomized trials with healthy children scheduled for elective diagnostic and surgical procedures under general anaesthesia (age range 0–16 years) where the intervention was parental presence at anaesthesia induction were included. A comprehensive literature search was conducted using electronic databases and the reference lists of included studies. The Cochrane collaboration's tool for assessing risk of bias was used for assessment of risk of bias. The Review Manager software was used to analyse and synthesize data. A random‐effect meta‐analysis was used when there was evidence of clinical and/or statistical heterogeneity. Of the 102 citations identified, nine trials involving 1021 children were eligible for inclusion. Only four were sufficient to be included in the meta‐analysis. There was no statistically significant difference on average in the level of anxiety in children and their parents either at separation or at induction between children allocated to parental presence and those allocated to no presence, premedication or parental presence plus premedication groups. Significant debate still surrounds this issue, and future trials should focus on the use of reliable and validated tools in assessing outcome measures.
Home‐based walking during pregnancy affects mood and birth outcomes among sedentary women: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Taniguchi Chie , Sato Chifumi
Published: June 2016

We examined the effects of home‐based walking on sedentary Japanese women's pregnancy outcomes and mood. A randomized controlled trial was conducted, involving 118 women aged 22–36 years. Participants were randomly assigned to walking intervention (n = 60) or control (n = 58) groups. The walking group was instructed to walk briskly for 30 min, three times weekly from 30 weeks' gestation until delivery. Both groups counted their daily steps using pedometers. Pregnancy and delivery outcomes were assessed, participants completed the Profile of Mood States, and we used the intention‐to‐treat principle. Groups showed no differences regarding pregnancy or delivery outcomes. The walking group exhibited decreased scores on the depression–dejection and confusion subscales of the Profile of Mood States. Five of the 54 women in the intervention group who remained in the study (9.2%) completed 100% of the prescribed walking program; 32 (59.3%) women completed 80% or more. Unsupervised walking improves sedentary pregnant women's mood, indicating that regular walking during pregnancy should be promoted in this group.
Toll‐like receptor‐2 exacerbates murine acute viral hepatitis
Authors: Bleau Christian , Burnette Mélanie , Filliol Aveline , Piquet‐Pellorce Claire , Samson Michel , Lamontagne Lucie
Published: June 2016

Viral replication in the liver is generally detected by cellular endosomal Toll‐like receptors (TLRs) and cytosolic helicase sensors that trigger antiviral inflammatory responses. Recent evidence suggests that surface TLR2 may also contribute to viral detection through recognition of viral coat proteins but its role in the outcome of acute viral infection remains elusive. In this study, we examined in vivo the role of TLR2 in acute infections induced by the highly hepatotrophic mouse hepatitis virus (MHV) type 3 and weakly hepatotrophic MHV‐A59 serotype. To address this, C57BL/6 (wild‐type; WT) and TLR2 knockout (KO) groups of mice were intraperitoneally infected with MHV3 or MHV‐A59. MHV3 infection provoked a fulminant hepatitis in WT mice, characterized by early mortality and high alanine and aspartate transaminase levels, histopathological lesions and viral replication whereas infection of TLR2 KO mice was markedly less severe. MHV‐A59 provoked a comparable mild and subclinical hepatitis in WT and TLR2 KO mice. MHV3‐induced fulminant hepatitis in WT mice correlated with higher hepatic expression of interferon‐β, interleukin‐6, tumour necrosis factor‐α, CXCL1, CCL2, CXCL10 and alarmin (interleukin‐33) than in MHV‐A59‐infected WT mice and in MHV3‐infected TLR2 KO mice. Intrahepatic recruited neutrophils, natural killer cells, natural killer T cells or macrophages rapidly decreased in MHV3‐infected WT mice whereas they were sustained in MHV‐A59‐infected WT mice and MHV3‐infected TLR2 KO. MHV3 in vitro infection of macrophagic cells induced rapid and higher viral replication and/or interleukin‐6 induction in comparison to MHV‐A59, and depended on viral activation of TLR2 and p38 mitogen‐activated protein kinase. Taken together, these results support a new aggravating inflammatory role for TLR2 in MHV3‐induced acute fulminant hepatitis.
A Secular Increase in the Equity Risk Premium
Authors: Daly Kevin
Published: June 2016

There is an increasing consensus that global ‘excess saving’ has contributed to a reduction in equilibrium real interest rates. While economists dispute the extent of the decline, few now question that a decline has taken place or that excess saving has played a causal role. A key implication of this narrative is a decline in yields of all assets, including but not restricted to government bond yields. Yet, since the turn of the century, yields on global equity have risen. A complementary explanation is that there has been an increase in the global equity risk premium (ERP), which has simultaneously pushed risk‐free yield curves lower and equity yields higher. Applying a sign restrictions approach, I find that excess savings shocks were the predominant force affecting global real bond yields between the mid‐1980s and 2000 but that ‘risk premium’ shocks have accounted for more of the decline in real bond yields since 2000.
News
Authors: Tarran Brian
Published: June 2016

Deep concerns over DeepMind's access to patient data
An Evidence Base for Evidence-Informed Policy
Authors: Breckon Jonathan
Published: June 2016

What works in getting research listened to and acted upon by decision-makers? Jonathan Breckon discusses the findings of a recent review
Zika Virus and Birth Defects: Correlation or Causation?
Authors: Hassad Rossi A.
Published: June 2016

Earlier this year, World Health Organization experts said that “a causal relationship between Zika infection during pregnancy and microcephaly is strongly suspected, though not yet scientifically proven”. How might scientists prove such a link?
Beautiful, but Dangerous
Authors: Matthews Robert
Published: June 2016

The normal distribution is a useful tool for the statistician, but not everyone knows how to wield it. In an extract from his new book, Chancing It, Robert Matthews explains what can happen when things are far from normal
Comparative Ability of the Pain Disability Questionnaire in Predicting Health Outcomes
Authors: Lippe Ben , Gatchel Robert J. , Noe Carl , Robinson Richard , Huber Elizabeth , Jones Stephanie
Published: June 2016

As chronic pain contributes to tremendous personal and societal costs, efforts at identifying and understanding pain‐related disability via the biopsychosocial model have become increasingly important in addressing pain‐related health outcomes. This study attempted to compare the predictive ability of the Pain Disability Questionnaire against other established measures in terms of health and pain‐related outcomes. The sample consisted of 254 adult chronic pain patients seeking treatment through an interdisciplinary chronic pain management clinic. Participants were administered a battery of assessments including the Pain Disability Questionnaire and other established measures of health and pain‐related outcomes (e.g., NIH PROMIS measures) at baseline and post‐treatment time points. Results demonstrated convergent validity between the Pain Disability Questionnaire and the other study measures. Hierarchical regression analyses revealed significant associations between pain‐related disability as measured by the Pain Disability Questionnaire and a range of biopsychosocial outcomes. Pain Disability Questionnaire scores, as placed in categorical severity levels, demonstrated good discriminative abilities in terms of predicting health‐related factors. These findings support the clinical use of the Pain Disability Questionnaire as an empirically supported predictor of health‐related outcomes as compared with other established measures of pain and health outcomes.
Multiobjective Optimization of Total Monomeric Anthocyanins and Total Flavonoids Contents in Ultrasound‐Assisted Extraction from Purple Potato Tubers
Authors: Woinaroschy Alexandru , Damşa Florentina
Published: June 2016

The total monomeric anthocyanins (TAC) and total flavonoids (except anthocyanins) contents (TFC) in ultrasound‐assisted extraction from purple potato tubers have been established by analytical methods. In order to study the influences of two ultrasound‐assisted extraction parameters (sonification time and solvent/solid ratio) on TAC and TFC, a 23 experimental design was performed. The second‐order polynomials calculated by regression have shown very good predictions. The sensitivity of the considered ultrasound‐assisted extraction parameters have been investigated by Monte Carlo simulations. The simultaneous maximization of TAC and TFC was the aim of a multiobjective optimization problem which has been solved by two methods, namely weighted sum and Pareto‐optimal front. The maximum of TAC is obtained for the lower bound value of sonification time (5 min) and for a solvent/solid ratio of 20.66. The maximum of TFC is obtained for a sonification time of 13.39 min and for a solvent/solid ratio of 21.09.

Practical Applications

Anthocyanins and flavonoids present an important antioxidative activity and can play an important role in protection against neuronal and cardiovascular diseases, cataract, cancer, diabetes and aging‐related disorders. This research explored the use of polynomial regression of experimental data, sensitivity analysis and multiobjective optimization to find the best values of sonification time and solvent/solid ratio for maximization of total monomeric anthocyanins and total flavonoids contents in ultrasound‐assisted extraction from purple potato tubers. Both multiobjective optimization methods used here give large sets of optimal solutions. From these can be selected the solution corresponding to the best compromise of two objectives. On the base of the experimental and mathematical investigations it is proposed a small scale, batch industrial process.
Qualitative Detection of Fungal Contamination in Paprika Powder
Authors: Vyhnánek Tomáš , Machálková Zuzana , Trojan Václav , Hanáček Pavel , Šafránková Ivana , Havel Ladislav
Published: June 2016

Dried red pepper is one of the most commonly used spices in many parts of the world. In this study molecular biology methods were applied for detection of contamination in nine samples of paprika powder. Internal Transcribed Spacer (ITS) regions were selected for sequencing as they have a high variability between species and organisms and therefore are an appropriate tool for taxonomic identification. The sequence analysis of the ITS regions were identified by high sequence similarity with the ITS regions of many microscopic fungi, especially representatives of the class Ascomycota and several other yeast species. This work was a qualitative rather than a quantitative detection, so the extent to which fungi and yeasts were present in the samples is unknown. However, supplied quality certificates (microbiological data) indicated the overall quality of samples. Harmful microorganisms were identified in the paprika powder samples and the likely mode of contamination was identified.

Practical Application

The presence of undesirable pathogens can be a serious problem for consumers, especially contamination by microscopic fungi that have the potential to produce mycotoxins. Today's conventional methods for determining contamination by microorganisms are time consuming and can be difficult to identify some less common types of pathogens. Fungal DNA (ITS regions) sequences of the class Ascomycetes were identified from samples of sweet and hot paprika powder.
Evidence for a Notch1‐mediated transition during olfactory ensheathing cell development
Authors: Miller Sophie R. , Perera Surangi N. , Benito Cristina , Stott Simon R. W. , Baker Clare V. H.
Published: June 2016

Olfactory ensheathing cells (OECs) are a unique glial population found in both the peripheral and central nervous system: they ensheath bundles of unmyelinated olfactory axons from their peripheral origin in the olfactory epithelium to their central synaptic targets in the glomerular layer of the olfactory bulb. Like all other peripheral glia (Schwann cells, satellite glia, enteric glia), OECs are derived from the embryonic neural crest. However, in contrast to Schwann cells, whose development has been extensively characterised, relatively little is known about their normal development in vivo. In the Schwann cell lineage, the transition from multipotent Schwann cell precursor to immature Schwann cell is promoted by canonical Notch signalling. Here, in situ hybridisation and immunohistochemistry data from chicken, mouse and human embryos are presented that suggest a canonical Notch‐mediated transition also occurs during OEC development.
Pain and concomitant symptoms in medical and elective surgical inpatients: a point prevalence survey
Authors: Ludvigsen Eirin Sigurdssøn , Flæten Øystein Øygarden , Gay Caryl L , TarAngen Magnus , Granheim Tove Irene , Lerdal Anners
Published: June 2016

Aims and objectives

This study (1) reports the prevalence of severe pain and other symptoms among both medical and elective surgical patients and (2) examines the co‐occurrence of severe pain and other symptoms and symptom‐related distress.

Background

As symptom burden can interfere with patients’ rehabilitation, daily activities and quality of life, detection and optimal management of pain and other symptoms is important for good nursing care.

Design

Cross‐sectional point prevalence survey.

Methods

Data were collected by self‐report on 10 predetermined screening days from medical and surgical patients admitted to a local hospital in Oslo, Norway. Patients rated their average level of pain on movement during the last 24 hours on a 0–10 numeric rating scale (severe pain defined as ≥7). The occurrence of other symptoms and symptom distress were measured with 15 items from the Memorial Symptom Assessment Scale. Data on comorbidities were also collected.

Results

A total of 602 patients participated in the study (response rate = 71%). Medical patients had a higher incidence of symptoms than surgical patients and reported more symptom distress. Surgical patients reported higher levels of pain than medical patients, but the prevalence of severe pain did not differ between the two groups. In analyses adjusted for age, sex and comorbidities, severe pain among medical patients was associated with severe distress due to concentration difficulties, vomiting, itching and swelling, while severe pain among surgical patients was associated with the occurrence of drowsiness.

Conclusion

Associations between severe pain and other symptoms differ for medical and elective surgical patients.

Relevance to clinical practice

Knowledge of concurrent symptoms and comorbidities in medical and surgical patients experiencing severe pain may help nurses to better tailor management of the patients’ symptoms and improve quality of care.