bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Structural basis of multivalent galactose‐based dendrimer recognition by human galectin‐7
Authors: Ramaswamy Sneha , Sleiman Mazen H. , Masuyer Geoffrey , Arbez‐Gindre Cécile , Micha‐Screttas Maria , Calogeropoulou Theodora , Steele Barry R. , Acharya K. Ravi
Published: November 2014

Galectins are evolutionarily conserved and ubiquitously present animal lectins with a high affinity for β‐galactose‐containing oligosaccharides. To date, 15 mammalian galectins have been identified. Their involvement in cell–cell and cell–matrix interactions has highlighted their importance in signal transduction and other intracellular processes. Human galectin‐7 (hGal‐7) is a 15 kDa proto type galectin that forms a dimer in solution and its involvement in the stimulation and development of tumour growth has been reported. Previously, we reported the crystal structure of hGal‐7 and its complex with galactose and lactose which provided insight into its molecular recognition and detailed interactions. Here, we present newly obtained high‐resolution structural data on carbohydrate‐based dendrons in complex with hGal‐7. Our crystallographic data reveal how multivalent ligands interact with and form cross‐links with these galectin molecules. Understanding how these dendrimeric compounds interact with hGal‐7 would help in the design of new tools to investigate the recognition of carbohydrates by lectins.

Database

The atomic coordinates and structure factors for hGal‐7–D1 (code 4UW3), hGal7–D2 (codes 4UW4, 4UW5) and hGal‐7–D3 (code 4UW6) complexes have been deposited in the Protein Data Bank, Research Collaboratory for Structural Bioinformatics, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, USA (http://www.rcsb.org/).
Epigenetic alterations in acute myeloid leukemias
Authors: Mehdipour Parinaz , Santoro Fabio , Minucci Saverio
Published: November 2014

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a heterogeneous disease for which the standard treatment with cytotoxic chemotherapy has remained largely unchanged for over four decades, with unfavorable clinical results. Epigenetic alterations have been described in several AMLs, and in some cases their origin has been studied in detail mechanistically (such as in acute promyelocytic leukemia, caused by the promyelocytic leukemia–retinoic acid receptor‐α fusion protein). Recently, the advent of massive parallel sequencing has revealed that > 70% of AML cases have mutations in DNA methylation‐related genes or mutations in histone modifiers, showing that epigenetic alterations are key players in the development of most, if not all, AMLs, and pointing to the exploitation of new molecular targets for more efficacious therapies. This review provides a brief overview of the latest findings on the characterization of the epigenetic landscape of AML and discusses the rationale for the optimization of epigenetic therapy of AML.
Rapid carbon turnover beneath shrub and tree vegetation is associated with low soil carbon stocks at a subarctic treeline
Authors: Parker Thomas C. , Subke Jens‐Arne , Wookey Philip A.
Published: November 2014

Climate warming at high northern latitudes has caused substantial increases in plant productivity of tundra vegetation and an expansion of the range of deciduous shrub species. However significant the increase in carbon (C) contained within above‐ground shrub biomass, it is modest in comparison with the amount of C stored in the soil in tundra ecosystems. Here, we use a ‘space‐for‐time’ approach to test the hypothesis that a shift from lower‐productivity tundra heath to higher‐productivity deciduous shrub vegetation in the sub‐Arctic may lead to a loss of soil C that out‐weighs the increase in above‐ground shrub biomass. We further hypothesize that a shift from ericoid to ectomycorrhizal systems coincident with this vegetation change provides a mechanism for the loss of soil C. We sampled soil C stocks, soil surface CO2 flux rates and fungal growth rates along replicated natural transitions from birch forest (Betula pubescens), through deciduous shrub tundra (Betula nana) to tundra heaths (Empetrum nigrum) near Abisko, Swedish Lapland. We demonstrate that organic horizon soil organic C (SOCorg) is significantly lower at shrub (2.98 ± 0.48 kg m−2) and forest (2.04 ± 0.25 kg m−2) plots than at heath plots (7.03 ± 0.79 kg m−2). Shrub vegetation had the highest respiration rates, suggesting that despite higher rates of C assimilation, C turnover was also very high and less C is sequestered in the ecosystem. Growth rates of fungal hyphae increased across the transition from heath to shrub, suggesting that the action of ectomycorrhizal symbionts in the scavenging of organically bound nutrients is an important pathway by which soil C is made available to microbial degradation. The expansion of deciduous shrubs onto potentially vulnerable arctic soils with large stores of C could therefore represent a significant positive feedback to the climate system.
The Southern Ocean ecosystem under multiple climate change stresses ‐ an integrated circumpolar assessment
Authors: Gutt Julian , Bertler Nancy , Bracegirdle Thomas J. , Buschmann Alexander , Comiso Josefino , Hosie Graham , Isla Enrique , Schloss Irene R. , Smith Craig R. , Tournadre Jean , Xavier José C.
Published: November 2014

A quantitative assessment of observed and projected environmental changes in the Southern Ocean (SO) with a potential impact on the marine ecosystem shows: (i) large proportions of the SO are and will be affected by one or more climate change processes; areas projected to be affected in the future are larger than areas that are already under environmental stress, (ii) areas affected by changes in sea‐ice in the past and likely in the future are much larger than areas affected by ocean warming. The smallest areas (<1% area of the SO) are affected by glacier retreat and warming in the deeper euphotic layer. In the future, decrease in the sea‐ice is expected to be widespread. Changes in iceberg impact resulting from further collapse of ice‐shelves can potentially affect large parts of shelf and ephemerally in the off‐shore regions. However, aragonite undersaturation (acidification) might become one of the biggest problems for the Antarctic marine ecosystem by affecting almost the entire SO. Direct and indirect impacts of various environmental changes to the three major habitats, sea‐ice, pelagic and benthos and their biota are complex. The areas affected by environmental stressors range from 33% of the SO for a single stressor, 11% for two and 2% for three, to <1% for four and five overlapping factors. In the future, areas expected to be affected by 2 and 3 overlapping factors are equally large, including potential iceberg changes, and together cover almost 86% of the SO ecosystem.
Changing gull diet in a changing world: A 150‐year stable isotope (δ13C,δ15N) record from feathers collected in the Pacific Northwest of North America
Authors: Blight Louise K. , Hobson Keith A. , Kyser T. Kurt , Arcese Peter
Published: November 2014

The world's oceans have undergone significant ecological changes following European colonial expansion and associated industrialization. Seabirds are useful indicators of marine food web structure and can be used to track multidecadal environmental change, potentially reflecting long‐term human impacts. We used stable isotope (δ13C,δ15N) analysis of feathers from glaucous‐winged gulls (Larus glaucescens) in a heavily disturbed region of the northeast Pacific to ask whether diets of this generalist forager changed in response to shifts in food availability over 150 years, and whether any detected change might explain long‐term trends in gull abundance. Sampled feathers came from birds collected between 1860 and 2009 at nesting colonies in the Salish Sea, a transboundary marine system adjacent to Washington,USAand British Columbia, Canada. To determine whether temporal trends in stable isotope ratios might simply reflect changes to baseline environmental values, we also analysed muscle tissue from forage fishes collected in the same region over a multidecadal timeframe. Values ofδ13C andδ15N declined since 1860 in both subadult and adult gulls (δ13C, ~ 2–6‰;δ15N, ~4–5‰), indicating that their diet has become less marine over time, and that birds now feed at a lower trophic level than previously. Conversely, forage fishδ13C andδ15N values showed no trends, supporting our conclusion that gull feather values were indicative of declines in marine food availability rather than of baseline environmental change. Gradual declines in feather isotope values are consistent with trends predicted had gulls consumed less fish over time, but were equivocal with respect to whether gulls had switched to a more garbage‐based diet, or one comprising marine invertebrates. Nevertheless, our results suggest a long‐term decrease in diet quality linked to declining fish abundance or other anthropogenic influences, and may help to explain regional population declines in this species and other piscivores.
The role of patient experience surveys in quality assurance and improvement: a focus group study in English general practice
Authors: Boiko Olga , Campbell John L. , Elmore Natasha , Davey Antoinette F. , Roland Martin , Burt Jenni
Published: November 2014

Background

Despite widespread adoption of patient feedback surveys in international health‐care systems, including the English NHS, evidence of a demonstrable impact of surveys on service improvement is sparse.

Objective

To explore the views of primary care practice staff regarding the utility of patient experience surveys.

Design

Qualitative focus groups.

Setting and participants

Staff from 14 English general practices.

Results

Whilst participants engaged with feedback from patient experience surveys, they routinely questioned its validity and reliability. Participants identified surveys as having a number of useful functions: for patients, as a potentially therapeutic way of getting their voice heard; for practice staff, as a way of identifying areas of improvement; and for GPs, as a source of evidence for professional development and appraisal. Areas of potential change stimulated by survey feedback included redesigning front‐line services, managing patient expectations and managing the performance of GPs. Despite this, practice staff struggled to identify and action changes based on survey feedback alone.

Discussion

Whilst surveys may be used to endorse existing high‐quality service delivery, their use in informing changes in service delivery is more challenging for practice staff. Drawing on the Utility Index framework, we identified concerns relating to reliability and validity, cost and feasibility acceptability and educational impact, which combine to limit the utility of patient survey feedback.

Conclusions

Feedback from patient experience surveys has great potential. However, without a specific and renewed focus on how to translate feedback into action, this potential will remain incompletely realized.
Giving patients a starring role in their own care: a bibliometric analysis of the on‐going literature debate
Authors: Menichetti Julia , Libreri Chiara , Lozza Edoardo , Graffigna Guendalina
Published: November 2014

Background

Patient‐centred care has been advocated as a key component of high‐quality patient care, yet its meanings and related actions have been difficult to ascertain.

Objective

To map the use of different terms related to the process of giving patients a starring role in their own care and clarify the possible boundaries between terms that are often mixed.

Methods

A literature search was conducted using different electronic databases. All records containing the search terms ‘patient engagement’, ‘patient activation’, ‘patient empowerment’, ‘patient involvement’, ‘patient adherence’, ‘patient compliance’ and ‘patient participation’ were collected. Identified literature was then analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS). The number of yearly publications, most productive countries, cross‐concepts articles and various scientific fields dealing with the multidisciplinary concepts were identified.

Results

Overall, 58 987 papers were analysed. Correspondence analysis revealed three temporal trends. The first period (2002–2004) focused on compliance and adherence, the second period (2006–2009) focused on the relationship between participation and involvement, and the third one (2010–2013) emphasized empowerment. Patient activation and patient engagement followed the temporal development trend connected to the ‘immediate future’.

Discussion and conclusions

The bibliometric trend suggests that the role of patient in the health‐care system is changing. In the last years, the patient was viewed as a passive receptor of medical prescription. To date, the need to consider patients as active partners of health‐care planning and delivery is growing. In particular, the term patient engagement appears promising, not only for its increasing growth of interest in the scholarly debate, but also because it offers a broader and better systemic conceptualization of the patients’ role in the fruition of health care. To build a shared vocabulary of terms and concepts related to the active role of patients in the health‐care process may be envisaged as the first operative step towards a concrete innovation of health‐care organizations and systems.
Analysing ‘big picture’ policy reform mechanisms: the Australian health service safety and quality accreditation scheme
Authors: Greenfield David , Hinchcliff Reece , Banks Margaret , Mumford Virginia , Hogden Anne , Debono Deborah , Pawsey Marjorie , Westbrook Johanna , Braithwaite Jeffrey
Published: November 2014

Background

Agencies promoting national health‐care accreditation reform to improve the quality of care and safety of patients are largely working without specific blueprints that can increase the likelihood of success.

Objective

This study investigated the development and implementation of the Australian Health Service Safety and Quality Accreditation Scheme and National Safety and Quality Health Service Standards (the Scheme), their expected benefits, and challenges and facilitators to implementation.

Methods

A multimethod study was conducted using document analysis, observation and interviews. Data sources were eight government reports, 25 h of observation and 34 interviews with 197 diverse stakeholders.

Results

Development of the Scheme was achieved through extensive consultation conducted over a prolonged period, that is, from 2000 onwards. Participants, prior to implementation, believed the Scheme would produce benefits at multiple levels of the health system. The Scheme offered a national framework to promote patient‐centred care, allowing organizations to engage and coordinate professionals’ quality improvement activities. Significant challenges are apparent, including developing and maintaining stakeholder understanding of the Scheme's requirements. Risks must also be addressed. The standardized application of, and reliable assessment against, the standards must be achieved to maintain credibility with the Scheme. Government employment of effective stakeholder engagement strategies, such as structured consultation processes, was viewed as necessary for successful, sustainable implementation.

Conclusion

The Australian experience demonstrates that national accreditation reform can engender widespread stakeholder support, but implementation challenges must be overcome. In particular, the fundamental role of continued stakeholder engagement increases the likelihood that such reforms are taken up and spread across health systems.
Equibiaxial Flexure Strength of Glass: Influence of Glass Plate Size and Equibiaxial Ring Ratio
Authors: Swab Jeffrey J. , Patel Parimal J. , Tran Xuan , Gilde Luke , Luoto Ernest , Gaviola Mariel H. , Gott Ashley , Paulson Blake , Kilczewski Steven
Published: November 2014

Glass plays an important role in many engineering applications including transparent armor. Determining the actual strength of a glass is problematic because typical glass strength numbers are presented in the literature as ranges. Minor changes in surface finish, composition, test method employed, and processing all influence the mechanical strength of glass. A standardized method needs to be utilized to ensure that strength data can be compared universally. The use of a standard methodology is vital when comparing glass compositions or multiple sample lots of the same composition in order to attribute any real strength variations to the glass itself. While the procedures established in ASTM C1499 provide a good framework for glass strength measurement, flexibility in the experimental parameters of the standard allow for substantial strength variations when testing glass materials. The ratio between the load and support ring diameters, as well as the specimen dimensions, is shown to lead to variations in both the measured strength, as well as the number of valid/invalid tests based on where fracture initiates. The goal of this study is to quantify these effects in order to establish optimized testing conditions for determining the strength of float glass.
Quality enhancement of the abundant under‐valued crustacean, lobster krill (Munida spp.), during its chilled storage
Authors: García‐Soto Bibiana , Miranda José M. , Barros‐Velázquez Jorge , Aubourg Santiago P.
Published: November 2014

Lobster krill (Munida genus) represents an under‐valued crustacean frequently caught on European fishing banks. In this work, its sensory, microbiological and biochemical qualities were evaluated during chilled storage. Additionally, the effects of a prestorage antimelanosic treatment consisting of soaking in sodium metabisulphite (SMB) solutions at two different concentrations (0.25% and 0.75%) were also studied. SMB prestorage treatment provided lobster specimens that still exhibited acceptable sensory quality after 10 days of storage, while control specimens were unacceptable at that time. SMB treatment also resulted in a significant (P < 0.05) inhibition of microbial growth, mainly of Enterobacteriaceae, psychrotrophes and proteolytic bacteria. Low lipid oxidation levels were observed for all batches; however, a significantly higher (P < 0.05) retention of polyunsaturated fatty acids was found in SMB‐treated lobster, especially in the 0.75% SMB batch. The results presented here open the way to the potential commercialisation of currently under‐utilised lobster krill as a chilled product.
Lipid degradation and sensory characteristics ofM. biceps femorisin dry‐cured hams from Duroc using three different processing methods
Authors: Storrustløkken Linda , Devle Hanne Marie , Håseth Torunn T. , Egelandsdal Bjørg , Naess‐Andresen Carl Fredrik , Hollung Kristin , Berg Per , Ekeberg Dag , Alvseike Ole
Published: November 2014

Hams from Norwegian Duroc pigs, reared and fed identically, were dry‐cured using three different processing methods: Spanish Serrano (SS), Norwegian Parma‐style (PS) and deboning before curing (ND). The fatty acid compositions of the green and dry‐cured hams were analysed in terms of their neutral lipid, phospholipid and free fatty acid contents and correlated with sensory attributes. Although the three dry‐curing processes were quite different, the hams′ lipid profiles, lipid degradation patterns and lipid‐associated sensorial characteristics differed only slightly. The phospholipids were the most extensively degraded lipid class (88, 89% and 84% degradation inPS,SSandNDhams, respectively) for all processing methods. TheSSandPShams had slightly riper sensory profiles due to their extensive conversion of fatty acids into aroma components. The free fatty acid contents ofPS,SSandNDhams were 6.3, 6.2 and 7.5 times greater than those of green hams, respectively.
Short and Long Sleep Durations are Both Associated with Increased Risk of Stroke: A Meta-Analysis of Observational Studies
Authors: Ge Beihai , Guo Xiaomei
Published: November 2014

Background

There is uncertainty about the relationship between sleep duration and stroke risk. Aim We aimed to clarify the relationship between sleep duration and risk of stroke by using epidemiological evidence.

Methods

We searched MEDLINE and EMBASE to identify all studies that might be looking at the association between sleep duration and stroke, including both cohort and cross-sectional studies. Pooled hazard ratios (HRs) and odds ratios (ORs) were calculated through a random-effects model.

Results

Our study included a total of 12 cohort studies and 6 cross-sectional studies. Pooled results from the cohort studies showed that short sleep duration was associated with a higher risk for stroke [HR, 1·13; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1·02–1·25], and that long sleep duration also increases the risk of having a stroke (HR, 1·40; 95% CI, 1·16–1·64). Results from cross-sectional studies confirmed the relationship between stroke and inappropriate sleep duration, either too little sleep or too much. For short sleep duration, the OR was 1·71 (1·39–2·02); for long sleep duration, the OR was 2·12 (1·51–2·73).

Conclusion

Both short and long sleep durations have a significant association with higher risk of stroke.
Optimizing the “demographic dividend” in young developing countries: The role of contractual savings and insurance for financing education
Authors: Ssewamala Fred M.
Published: November 2014

Many developing regions are facing a youth bulge, meaning that young people comprise the highest proportion of the population. These regions are at risk of losing what could be a tremendous opportunity for economic growth and development if they do not capitalize on this young and economically productive population, also referred to as the “demographic dividend,” defined as the increase in economic growth that tends to follow increases in the ratio of the working‐age population – essentially the labor force – to dependents. Nations undergoing this population transition have the opportunity to capitalize on the demographic dividend if the right social, economic, and human capital policies are in place. In particular, Sub‐Saharan Africa, the Middle East, and North Africa are at risk of losing the demographic dividend. These regions face high youth unemployment, low primary school completion, and low secondary school enrollment. This results in an undereducated and unskilled segment of the population. The prohibitive costs of education prevent young people from finishing school, thereby entering the labor market unprepared. This article presents a case for youth‐focused financial inclusion programs as one of the antidotes to the masses of poor, undereducated, and low‐skilled young people swelling the labor markets of poor developing countries.
Poverty and material deprivation among European workers in times of crisis
Authors: Crettaz Eric
Published: November 2014

Many EU countries are faced with abysmal public debts and high unemployment, and may have to reduce their social expenditure and deregulate their labour market, which should lead to an increase in ‘working poverty’ (i.e., an increase in the number of working men and women who live in a low‐income household, or in a household that cannot afford certain goods and services considered essential for a decent life, respectively). However, working poverty remains an under‐analysed phenomenon in Europe. Moreover, the vast majority of existing definitions used in Europe are based on a relative income poverty line and the EU's official definition of ‘in‐work’, which raises concerns about the robustness of existing findings. This article first examines how the socioeconomic situation has evolved in seven EU Member States that have fared differently. In addition, the article examines whether the use of non‐monetary poverty indicators and of an encompassing definition of ‘working’ has an impact on the conclusions drawn. An attempt is made to identify the main macro‐level determinants of changes in ‘working poverty’ and to better understand their impact at the micro‐level.
Beyond poverty reduction: Conditional cash transfers and citizenship in Ghana
Authors: Oduro Razak
Published: November 2014

Ghana's Livelihood Empowerment Against Poverty (LEAP) programme provides conditional cash transfers to poor households in deprived communities. Beyond the potentiality of the LEAP programme to reduce poverty, its implications for shaping state–citizen relations and inclusive citizenship have been largely ignored. This study explored the implications of the programme on notions of citizenship among cash recipients. The findings indicate that the programme generates interfaces that strengthen state–citizen interaction and serves as a promising avenue for reintegration. However, it is also characterised by undue delay in cash payment and weak institutional capacity to mediate interactive processes and grievances, which suggests that the contractual relationship and the state's accountability are weak. Furthermore, the programme has negatively influenced community social relations, limiting the forms of agency beneficiaries exercised. The study concludes that although LEAP represents a landmark in Ghana's quest for inclusive citizenship, it undermines social relations and citizens’ rights to hold the state accountable, which unavoidably limits effective state building.
Dementia in older people: an update
Authors: LoGiudice D. , Watson R.
Published: November 2014

Dementia is a common condition of the elderly characterised by multiple cognitive deficits resulting in a decline from previous level of function. In the older person, multiple pathologies contribute, including changes commonly seen in Alzheimer disease, dementia with Lewy bodies in addition to vascular changes. Comorbid factors, such as depression, delirium and polypharmacy can contribute to cognitive decline. Novel biomarkers and neuroimaging techniques may assist in the near future to improve accuracy of diagnosis. To date, pharmacological therapies have been largely unsuccessful and provide symptomatic relief only. The timely diagnosis of dementia can facilitate important discussions regarding personal and financial planning and introduce education and supports to the person with dementia and their carers. The person with dementia commonly experiences behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia that may cause much distress, including to families and carers. Clinical guidelines indicate non‐pharmacological approaches as first line measures, including attention to pain, nutrition and the environment. Dementia is recognised as a National Health Priority in Australia, and efforts to target risk factors as preventative measures to delay onset of dementia require further urgent consideration.
Transition from hospital to primary care: an audit of discharge summary – medication changes and follow‐up expectations
Authors: Tan B. , Mulo B. , Skinner M.
Published: November 2014

Background

The clinical discharge summary remains a critical, but often poorly implemented tool in communication with primary care. An area of concern is the documentation of medication lists and appropriate follow up of medication changes.

Aims

To assesses the accuracy of documentation of medication changes and expectations with regard to follow up from an acute assessment unit (AAU) of a tertiary metropolitan hospital.

Methods

All patients who were admitted and discharged directly from the unit during the month of June 2013 were audited. For all admissions, discharge summaries were audited for medication errors and for the appropriate documentation of indications and follow up for prescribed medications. All medications prescribed on discharge were collated using the World Health Organization Anatomical, Therapeutic and Chemical (ATC) classification.

Results

In total, 219 admissions were analysed. There were 204 out of 219 (93.1%) discharge summaries that had an accurate medication list. Of 219 (74%) patients, 163 had at least one change to their medications during admission. Of 163 discharge summaries, 82 (50%) contained information regarding their indication and outpatient management. The most commonly prescribed classes along with the rates of indication and follow up documentation were anti‐infectives (62%), gastrointestinal (51%), cardiovascular (50%) and central nervous system (44%).

Conclusion

Although there were fewer documentation errors in discharge summaries than previously described in the literature, concerns regarding the documentation of medication indication and follow up remain.
Together towards Lifein the Context of Liquid Modernity
Authors: Ross Kenneth R.
Published: November 2014

Among the “changed landscapes” identified by the new World Council of Churches mission affirmationTogether towards Lifeis the rapidly advancing secularization evident in the Western world. Growing numbers of people live for goals that are entirely immanent, with apparently no transcendent reference to their lives at all. This presents a new missionary frontier forChristian faith, asLesslieNewbigin prophetically suggested in the 1980s. Since then, the frontier has strengthened, as disillusionment withChristianity has grown and modernity has taken an ever more liquid form. It has also widened as globalization has taken the free market and its values to almost every part of the world.Together towards Lifeposes this question: How can we proclaimGod's love and justice to a generation living in an individualized, secularized and materialized world? It answers this question first by taking a pneumatological approach to understanding mission and thus talking the language of people immersed in the culture of “liquid modernity” who struggle to connect with heavily institutional religion but yearn for a viable spirituality. It goes on to stress the transformative character of mission, particularly in regard to economic justice and ecological responsibility. It takes a radical direction with its emphasis on the marginalized as agents of mission and the communal nature ofChristian witness. In a context of plurality, it fosters an open and adventurous approach, making the “other” a partner in, not an “object” of, mission. At the same time, it calls for bold proclamation of the good news ofChrist to meet the personal existential crisis that is a common feature of the late modern world. In these ways,Together towards Lifestrikes notes that resonate in the context of liquid modernity while also making a call to conversion and transformation. It offers, in short, “challenging relevance.”
Evangelism in “Christian” Societies
Authors: Koukoura Dimitra
Published: November 2014

The globalization of the economy and the unthinkable development of mass media and transportation and communication have transformed the oldest Christian societies of the northern hemisphere and especially of Europe into multicultural societies.

Re‐evangelization is the answer to the question of what must be done. Faith originates from hearing; the missionary preaching that is directed toward the people who are ignorant of the world‐saving work of Christ needs to be articulated, keeping in mind the scheme of communication and the special significance of the following factors: transmitter, receiver, topic, message, channel and code. The gospel is addressed to all ages. Youth and intellectuals exhibit more difficulties in acceptance, which calls for the adoption of a special code of communication. Of the utmost necessity is the flame of the transmitter. Electronic channels of communication offer unthinkable possibilities for the transmission of the message of the gospel to innumerable receivers by the use of a variety of codes.
Toward a Eucharistic Missiology
Authors: George Kondothra M.
Published: November 2014

The Orthodox churches were drawn into contemporary missiological discussions primarily through the modern ecumenical movement. Since there are fundamental differences of approach between the East and the West on this matter, particularly because the Western concept and method of mission is perceived to be still carrying, rather imperceptibly, the old imperial‐colonial baggage, the Orthodox are always ill at ease in these discussions dominated by the Western Protestant churches. The Orthodox theologians have, however, made huge efforts within the framework of the World Council of Churches to enunciate their vision of the missionary nature of the church from patristic and liturgical perspectives.

This article pleads for a shifting of paradigm from an anthropocentric and possessive mode of mission to non‐possessive hospitality, eucharistic (thanksgiving) intercessory care for creation, and self‐giving inner pilgrimage to the source of light that enlightens all. Mission as gift and not simply as task would be essential for the shaping of a new human civilization. What is needed is a change of human civilizational paradigm and not simply some aspects of the conventional Christian mission models. In Asia, we had the Buddhist mission before Christ and the East Syrian Christian mission in the first millennium, which gave us some alternate models of doing peaceful and non‐acquisitive mission.
Perioperative Mortality and Long‐Term Survival in 80 Dogs and 32 Cats Undergoing Excision of Thymic Epithelial Tumors
Authors: Garneau Mark S. , Price Lori Lyn , Withrow Stephen J. , Boston Sarah E. , Ewing Patty J. , McClaran Janet Kovak , Liptak Julius M. , Berg John
Published: November 2014

Objective

To examine perioperative mortality, long‐term survival, causes of death, and prognostic factors for dogs and cats undergoing surgical excision of thymic epithelial tumors (TETs).

Study Design

Multi‐institutional case series.

Animals

Eighty dogs and 32 cats.

Methods

Follow‐up information was obtained for dogs and cats that underwent surgical excision of a TET between 2001 and 2012.

Results

Perioperative mortality was 20% in dogs and 22% in cats. No independent risk factors for perioperative mortality were identified. The estimated median survival time for all dogs was 1.69 years (95% CI 0.56–4.32) and the 1‐ and 4‐year survival rates were 55% (95% CI 44–67) and 44% (95% CI 32–56). The estimated median survival time for all cats was 3.71 years (95% CI 0.56‐unestimatable) and the 1‐ and 4‐year survival rates were 70% (95% CI 53–87) and 47% (95% CI 0–100). Of animals that survived to discharge, 42% of dogs and 20% of cats eventually died of TET‐related causes. The presence of paraneoplastic syndromes (hazard ratio [HR] 5.78, 95% CI 1.64–20.45,P = .007) or incomplete histologic margins (HR 6.09, 95% CI 1.50–24.72,P = .01) were independently associated with decreased survival in dogs. No significant predictors of survival were identified in cats. Conclusions regarding the effect of chemotherapy or radiation therapy could not be made.

Conclusions

While there is substantial risk of perioperative death in dogs and cats undergoing surgery for TETs, many animals that survive to discharge have prolonged survival. Survival is significantly decreased in dogs with paraneoplastic syndromes or incomplete histologic margins.
An overview of animal science research 1945–2011 through science mapping analysis
Authors: Rodriguez‐Ledesma A. , Cobo M.J. , Lopez‐Pujalte C. , Herrera‐Viedma E.
Published: November 2014

The conceptual structure of the field of Animal Science (AS) research is examined by means of a longitudinal science mapping analysis. The whole of the AS research field is analysed, revealing its conceptual evolution. To this end, an automatic approach to detecting and visualizing hidden themes or topics and their evolution across a consecutive span of years was applied to AS publications of the JCR category ‘Agriculture, Dairy & Animal Science’ during the period 1945–2011. This automatic approach was based on a coword analysis and combines performance analysis and science mapping. To observe the conceptual evolution of AS, six consecutive periods were defined: 1945–1969, 1970–1979, 1980–1989, 1990–1999, 2000–2005 and 2006–2011. Research in AS was identified as having focused on ten main thematic areas: ANIMAL‐FEEDING, SMALL‐RUMINANTS, ANIMAL‐REPRODUCTION, DAIRY‐PRODUCTION, MEAT‐QUALITY, SWINE‐PRODUCTION, GENETICS‐AND‐ANIMAL‐BREEDING, POULTRY, ANIMAL‐WELFARE and GROWTH‐FACTORS‐AND‐FATTY‐ACIDS. The results show how genomic studies gain in weight and integrate with other thematic areas. The whole of AS research has become oriented towards an overall framework in which animal welfare, sustainable management and human health play a major role. All this would affect the future structure and management of livestock farming.
Rate‐Control Drugs Affect Variability and Irregularity Measures of RR Intervals in Patients with Permanent Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: CORINO VALENTINA D.A. , ULIMOEN SARA R. , ENGER STEVE , MAINARDI LUCA T. , TVEIT ARNLJOT , PLATONOV PYOTR G.
Published: November 2014

Heart Rate Variability and Irregularity During AF

Introduction

Irregularity measures have been suggested as risk indicators in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF); however, it is not known to what extent they are affected by commonly used rate‐control drugs. We aimed at evaluating the effect of metoprolol, carvedilol, diltiazem, and verapamil on the variability and irregularity of the ventricular response in patients with permanent AF.

Methods and Results

Sixty patients with permanent AF were part of an investigator‐blind cross‐over study, comparing 4 rate‐control drugs (diltiazem, verapamil, metoprolol, and carvedilol). We analyzed five 20‐minute segments per patient: baseline and the 4 drug regimens. On every segment, heart rate (HR) variability and irregularity of RR series were computed. The variability was assessed as standard deviation, pNN20, pNN50, pNN80, and rMSSD. The irregularity was assessed by regularity index, approximate (ApEn), and sample entropy. A significantly lower HR was obtained with all drugs, the HR was lowest using the calcium channel blockers. All drugs increased the variability of ventricular response in respect to baseline (as an example, rMSSD: baseline 171 ± 47 milliseconds, carvedilol 229 ± 58 milliseconds; P < 0.05 vs. baseline, metoprolol 226 ± 66 milliseconds; P < 0.05 vs. baseline, verapamil 228 ± 84; P < 0.05 vs. baseline, diltiazem 256 ± 87 milliseconds; P < 0.05 vs. baseline and all other drugs). Only β‐blockers significantly increased the irregularity of the RR series (as an example, ApEn: baseline 1.86 ± 0.13, carvedilol 1.92 ± 0.09; P < 0.05 vs. baseline, metoprolol 1.93 ± 0.08; P < 0.05 vs. baseline, verapamil 1.86 ± 0.22 ns, diltiazem 1.88 ± 0.16 ns).

Conclusion

Modification of AV node conduction by rate‐control drugs increase RR variability, while only β‐blockers affect irregularity.
Representation of women as editors in the Cochrane collaboration
Authors: Bhaumik Soumyadeep , Mathew Rebecca Joyce
Published: November 2014

Objectives

There is considerable gender disparity in editorial boards of medical journals. Being an editor in a Cochrane review group (CRG), like being an editor in a medical journal, is an indirect representation of one's reputation and leadership abilities in a particular specialty. The aim of the study was to analyze the representation of women editors on the editorial teams of CRG's and the Central Editorial Unit (CEU) of the Cochrane Collaboration.

Methods

Information about editorial team members of CRGs and the CEU was extracted from respective websites. Gender of the individual was determined by inspection of names, individual profile description or photographs in the CRG or institutional webpage, social networking sites and internet search. Data was validated by two authors independently and differences sorted by consensus.

Results

A total of 788 editors across all CRGs and the CEU with an overall 371 females (47.1%) and 417 (52.9%) males were identified. of the CEU editors, 62.5% were females. There were 68 coordinating editors (35.3% females), and 62 managing editors (56% females), who provided leadership to the CRGs. Eighty‐four percent of trial search coordinators were found to be females. Ten CRGs had 75% or more of its editors as females while 7 CRGs had less than or equal to 25% female editors.

Conclusions

The representation of women editors in the Cochrane Collaboration was found to be better than in editorial boards of medical journals. There is still scope for improvement to ensure better gender diversity across all roles and in all CRG's.
The Affordable Care Act: a case study for understanding and applying complexity concepts to health care reform
Authors: Larkin D. Justin , Swanson R. Chad , Fuller Spencer , Cortese Denis A.
Published: November 2014

Rationale, aims and objectives

The current health system in the United States is the result of a history of patchwork policy decisions and cultural assumptions that have led to persistent contradictions in practice, gaps in coverage, unsustainable costs, and inconsistent outcomes. In working toward a more efficient health system, understanding and applying complexity science concepts will allow for policy that better promotes desired outcomes and minimizes the effects of unintended consequences.

Methods

This paper will consider three applied complexity science concepts in the context of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA): developing a shared vision around reimbursement for value, creating an environment for emergence through simple rules, and embracing transformational leadership at all levels.

Results and conclusions

Transforming the US health system, or any other health system, will be neither easy nor quick. Applying complexity concepts to health reform efforts, however, will facilitate long‐term change in all levels, leading to health systems that are more effective, efficient, and equitable.
Systematic Review of Outcomes from Home‐Based Primary Care Programs for Homebound Older Adults
Authors: Stall Nathan , Nowaczynski Mark , Sinha Samir K.
Published: November 2014

Objectives

To describe the effect of home‐based primary care for homebound older adults on individual, caregiver, and systems outcomes.

Design

A systematic review of home‐based primary care interventions for community‐dwelling older adults (aged ≥65) using the Cochrane, PubMed, and MEDLINE databases from the earliest available date through March 15, 2014. Studies were included if the house calls visitor was the ongoing primary care provider and if the intervention measured emergency department visits, hospitalizations, hospital beds days of care, long‐term care admissions, or long‐term care bed days of care.

Setting

Home‐based primary care programs.

Participants

Homebound community‐dwelling older adults (N = 46,154).

Measurements

Emergency department visits, hospitalizations, hospital bed days of care, long‐term care admissions, long‐term care bed days of care, costs, program design, and individual and caregiver quality of life and satisfaction with care.

Results

Of 357 abstracts identified, nine met criteria for review. The nine interventions were all based in North America, with five emerging from the Veterans Affairs system. Eight of nine programs demonstrated substantial effects on at least one inclusion outcome, with seven programs affecting two outcomes. Six interventions shared three core program components: interprofessional care teams, regular interprofessional care meetings, and after‐hours support.

Conclusion

Specifically designed home‐based primary care programs may substantially affect individual, caregiver and systems outcomes. Adherence to the core program components identified in this review could guide the development and spread of these programs.
Cognitive Function in the Prefrailty and Frailty Syndrome
Authors: Robertson Deirdre A. , Savva George M. , Coen Robert F. , Kenny Rose‐Anne
Published: November 2014

Objectives

To explore the relationship between cognitive function and frailty.

Design

A cross‐sectional study using data from Wave 1 of The Irish Longitudinal Study on Ageing, a population representative study of adults aged 50 and older in the Republic of Ireland.

Setting

Community‐dwelling adults completed a home‐ or health center–based nurse‐led assessment.

Participants

Individuals aged 50 and older without a history of stroke, Parkinson's disease, or severe cognitive impairment (Mini‐Mental State Examination (MMSE) score <18) and not taking antidepressants (N = 4,649).

Measurements

A cognitive battery including MMSE, Montreal Cognitive Assessment, Color Trails Test, Cambridge Mental Disorders of the Elderly Examination memory and executive function subtests, 10‐word recall, Sustained Attention to Response Task, and choice reaction time was used to generate composite scores of cognitive domains. Frailty was assessed according to weakness, slowness, exhaustion, low physical activity, and weight loss.

Results

After full adjustment, cognitive function across all domains except self‐rated memory and processing speed was significantly worse in prefrail and frail participants (P < .05) than in those who were robust. Weakness and walking speed were most consistently linked to poorer cognition, whereas low activity and weight loss were not independently associated with any cognitive domain. Exhaustion was associated with global cognition (B = −0.18 ± 0.06), with some evidence of links to objectively measured and self‐rated memory.

Conclusion

Cognitive function is worse across multiple cognitive domains in prefrail and frail individuals aged 50 and older than in those who are robust, although the absolute differences are small after adjusting for confounding factors.
Effect of elevated CO2 concentration on photosynthetic characteristics of hyperaccumulator Sedum alfredii under cadmium stress
Authors: Li Tingqiang , Tao Qi , Di Zhenzhen , Lu Fan , Yang Xiaoe
Published: November 2014

The combined effects of elevated CO2 and cadmium (Cd) on photosynthetic rate, chlorophyll fluorescence and Cd accumulation in hyperaccumulator Sedum alfredii Hance were investigated to predict plant growth under Cd stress with rising atmospheric CO2 concentration. Both pot and hydroponic experiments were conducted and the plants were grown under ambient (350 µL L−1) or elevated (800 µL L−1) CO2. Elevated CO2 significantly (P < 0.05) increased Pn (105%–149%), Pnmax (38.8%–63.0%) and AQY (20.0%–34.8%) of S. alfredii in all the Cd treatments, but reduced chlorophyll concentration, dark respiration and photorespiration. After 10 days growth in medium with 50 µM Cd under elevated CO2, PSII activities were significantly enhanced (P < 0.05) with Pm, Fv/Fm, Φ(II) and qP increased by 66.1%, 7.5%, 19.5% and 16.4%, respectively, as compared with ambient‐grown plants. Total Cd uptake in shoot of S. alfredii grown under elevated CO2 was increased by 44.1%–48.5%, which was positively correlated with the increase in Pn. These results indicate that elevated CO2 promoted the growth of S. alfredii due to increased photosynthetic carbon uptake rate and photosynthetic light‐use efficiency, and showed great potential to improve the phytoextraction of Cd by S. alfredii.