bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Caries Microbiome: Implications for Reversing Dysbiosis
Authors: Tanner A.C.R. , Kressirer C.A. , Rothmiller S. , Johansson I. , Chalmers N.I.
Published: January 2018

The oral microbiome plays a critical role in maintaining oral health. Frequent dietary carbohydrate intake can lead to dysbiosis of the microbial community from overproduction of acid with selection for increases in acidogenic, acid-tolerant bacteria. Knowledge of the caries-associated microbiome is key in planning approaches to reverse the dysbiosis to achieve health. For risk assessment and treatment studies, it would be valuable to establish whether microbial monitoring requires assay of multiple species or whether selected key species would suffice. Early investigations of the oral microbiota relied on culture-based methods to determine the major bacteria in health and disease. Microbial monitoring using gene probes facilitated study of larger populations. DNA probe methods confirmed and expanded the importance of transmission of bacteria from mother to infant and association of preselected species, including mutans streptococci and lactobacilli with caries in larger populations. 16S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) probes confirmed the wide diversity of species in oral and caries microbiomes. Open-ended techniques provide tools for discovery of new species, particularly when strain/clone identification includes gene sequence data. Anaerobic culture highlighted the caries association of Actinomyces and related species. Scardovia wiggsiae, in the Actinomyces/Bifidobacterium family, and several Actinomyces species have the cariogenic traits of acid production and acid tolerance. Next-generation sequencing combined with polymerase chain reaction methods revealed a strong association with mutans streptococci in a high caries population with poor oral hygiene and limited access to care. A population with a lower caries experience generally had lower or no Streptococcus mutans detection but harbored other acidogenic taxa in the microbiome. Study of the microbiome suggests a role for the assay of selected putative cariogenic species in more aggressive diseases. For many populations with caries progression, however, assay of multiple species will likely be warranted to determine the caries profile of the population and/or individuals under study.
Therapeutic Strategies Targeting Cariogenic Biofilm Microenvironment
Authors: Liu Y. , Ren Z. , Hwang G. , Koo H.
Published: January 2018

Cariogenic biofilms are highly structured microbial communities embedded in an extracellular matrix, a multifunctional scaffold that is essential for the existence of the biofilm lifestyle and full expression of virulence. The extracellular matrix provides the physical and biological properties that enhance biofilm adhesion and cohesion, as well as create a diffusion-modulating milieu, protecting the resident microbes and facilitating the formation of localized acidic pH niches. These biochemical properties pose significant challenges for the development of effective antibiofilm therapeutics to control dental caries. Conventional approaches focusing solely on antimicrobial activity or enhancing remineralization may not achieve maximal efficacy within the complex biofilm microenvironment. Recent approaches disrupting the biofilm microbial community and the microenvironment have emerged, including specific targeting of cariogenic pathogens, modulation of biofilm pH, and synergistic combination of bacterial killing and matrix degradation. Furthermore, new “smart” nanotechnologies that trigger drug release or activation in response to acidic pH are being developed that could enhance the efficacy of current and prospective chemical modalities. Therapeutic strategies that can locally disrupt the pathogenic niche by targeting the biofilm structure and its microenvironment to eliminate the embedded microorganism and facilitate the action of remineralizing agents may lead to enhanced and precise anticaries approaches.
Erythritol Functional Roles in Oral-Systemic Health
Authors: de Cock P.
Published: January 2018

Erythritol belongs chemically to the family of polyols (or sugar alcohols), yet it is metabolized by animals and humans very differently compared to all other polyols. While polyols have been used traditionally (for about 80 y) to replace sugar in sweet foods to reduce demineralization of tooth enamel and to reduce postprandial blood glucose levels, benefits achieved merely through the absence of sugar, emerging evidence shows that erythritol can play a number of functional roles to actively support maintenance of oral and systemic health. Oral health studies revealed that erythritol can reduce dental plaque weight, reduce dental plaque acids, reduce counts of mutans streptococci in saliva and dental plaque, and reduce the risk for dental caries better than sorbitol and xylitol, resulting in fewer tooth restorations by dentist intervention. Systemic health studies have shown that erythritol, unlike other polyols, is readily absorbed from the small intestine, not systemically metabolized, and excreted unchanged within the urine. This metabolic profile renders erythritol to be noncaloric, to have a high gastrointestinal tolerance, and not to increase blood glucose or insulin levels. Published evidence also shows that erythritol can act as an antioxidant and that it may improve endothelial function in people with type 2 diabetes. This article reviews the key research demonstrating erythritol’s oral and systemic health functionalities and underlying mechanisms.
Changes in Caries Risk in a Practice-Based Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Rechmann P. , Chaffee B.W. , Rechmann B.M.T. , Featherstone J.D.B.
Published: January 2018

To demonstrate that Caries Management by Risk Assessment (CAMBRA) can be successfully implemented in dental practice, 30 dentists were recruited to perform a 2-y CAMBRA trial. Twenty-one dentists (18 private practices, 3 community clinics) participated in a randomized, controlled, parallel-arm, double-blind clinical trial with individual-level assignment of 460 participants to standard of care (control) versus active CAMBRA treatment (intervention). Control or active antimicrobial and remineralizing agents were dispensed at baseline and 6-, 12-, 18-, and 24-mo recall visits according to risk level and assigned treatment arm. Primary outcome measure was dentist-determined caries risk level at recall. Among initially high-risk participants, secondary outcomes were recorded disease indicators. Generalized estimating equations were used to fit log-linear models for each outcome while accounting for repeated measurements. At 24 mo, follow-up rates were 34.3% for high-risk participants (32.1% intervention, 37.1% control) and 44.2% for low-risk participants (38.7% intervention, 49.5% control). Among 242 participants classified as high caries risk at baseline (137 intervention, 105 control), a lower percentage of participants remained at high risk in the intervention group (statistically significant at all time points). At 24 mo, 25% in the intervention group and 54% in the control group remained at high risk ( P = 0.003). Among 192 participants initially classified as low risk (93 intervention, 99 control), most participants remained at low risk. At 24 mo, 89% in the intervention group and 71% in the control group were low caries risk ( P = 0.18). The percentage of initially high-risk participants with recorded disease indicators decreased over time in both intervention and control groups, being always lower for the intervention group (statistically significant at the 12- and 18-mo time point). In this practice-based clinical trial, a significantly greater percentage of high-caries-risk participants were classified at a lower risk level after CAMBRA preventive therapies were provided. Most participants initially assessed at low caries risk stayed at low risk (ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01176396).
Treatment of Carious Lesions Using Self-Assembling Peptides
Authors: Alkilzy M. , Santamaria R.M. , Schmoeckel J. , Splieth C.H.
Published: January 2018

Modern approaches in caries treatment involve lesion management without tissue removal. Regenerative medicine focuses on replacing damaged tissues with biologically similar tissues. This article discusses the scientific evidence and clinical results for self-assembling peptides in modern caries management. The biomimetic remineralization promoted by self-assembling peptide P11-4 has been proven in vitro as an effective therapy for initial caries. P11-4 was rationally designed to promote formation of hydroxyapatite on its surface. The formulation was optimized to ensure the ability of monomeric P11-4 to penetrate past the subsurface lesions and assembly into a biomatrix within. Furthermore, P11-4 has shown that it assembles into fibers within carious lesions, and promotes the remineralization thereof. In a recent clinical study, the safety and efficacy of P11-4 in treatment of initial caries were evaluated. The additional effect of the application of P11-4 (Curodont Repair) was compared to the application of fluoride varnish (Duraphat) alone in active occlusal initial caries lesions on erupting permanent molars. In the 3- and 6-month recalls, the test group showed, both in the laser fluorescence readings and in the clinical assessment of the caries stage and activity, significantly superior lesion regression compared to the control group. No adverse events, medical complications, or allergic reactions related to the treatments were reported. Clinical applicability of treatment was regarded as satisfactory. Patients were happy to receive noninvasive caries treatments. In conclusion, biomimetic mineralization facilitated by P11-4 in combination with fluoride may present a simple, safe, and effective noninvasive treatment for early carious lesions.
Recent Advances in Remineralization Therapies for Caries Lesions
Authors: González-Cabezas C. , Fernández C.E.
Published: January 2018

Remineralization of caries lesions is naturally achieved by salivary ions, and it can be enhanced by external factors or elements such as fluoride. Numerous studies have demonstrated the remineralizing efficacy of fluoride therapies as well as the limitations with some groups of the population. Consequently, developing new remineralization therapies to close this gap in efficacy has been a priority for the last 2 decades. In this review, we summarize and briefly discuss some of the latest advances in remineralization therapies. Most new therapies try to enhance the effect of fluoride by adding other potentially active ingredients to the formulation, such as calcium, phosphate, stannous, xylitol, and arginine. Other remineralization strategies have focused on creating remineralizing scaffolds within the lesions (e.g., self-assembling peptides). While several of the new remineralization strategies have progressed significantly in recent years, for most of them, the evidence is still insufficient to assess their true clinical potential.
It takes a community
Authors: Jacobson Reuben , Villarreal Lisa , Muñoz José , Mahaffey Robert
Published: January 2018

Community schools are a sound education reform strategy that gets results. They start by asking local students and their families what they need to succeed in school, then they reach out to relevant community partners and use the school as the hub for organizing partnerships, services, and supports. By listening closely to the assets and needs of students and their families, community schools also develop trusting relationships and build support for the core work of education. Researchers believe that community schools can help improve attendance, reduce dropouts, and close the achievement gap.
School-based coordinators link students to community resources
Authors: Walter Frank
Published: January 2018

Site coordinators at community schools play a vital role in connecting at-risk students and their families with academic supports such as tutoring, enrichment activities, and college and career counseling as well as health care services, behavioral interventions, and even food and clothing.
Charlotte
Authors: Walter Frank
Published: January 2018

North Carolina’s Charlotte-Mecklenburg School District experienced a significant improvement in its graduation rates for students from low-income families — from just 52% in 2009 to 85.2% in 2016 — which has been credited to the district’s shift to community schools.
District partners support students’ mental health
Authors: Elliot Laura
Published: January 2018

Asheville City Schools and Buncombe County Schools in Asheville, N.C., have partnered with the United Way of Asheville and Buncombe County to develop strategies for responding to the emotional and mental health needs of middle school students in those districts. More than 40 community partners have joined their efforts, which include a focus on resilience and mindfulness.
Less arguing, more listening
Authors: Crocco Margaret , Halvorsen Anne-Lise , Jacobsen Rebecca , Segall Avner
Published: January 2018

Today’s youth increasingly are being expected to engage in civil deliberation in classrooms while simultaneously living in a society with a high level of political incivility. However, teaching students to argue — particularly in oral form — is enormously complex and challenging work. In this article, the authors report on a study of four high school social studies classrooms in which teachers facilitated argumentation via deliberations on immigration policy. Based on their research, they provide recommendations related to argumentation, deliberation, and the promotion of civility in classrooms.
Washington View
Authors: Ferguson Maria
Published: January 2018

The tax bills passed by the US House and Senate went after K-12 and postsecondary education in equal measure, undermining educational opportunities at nearly every turn. The author explains how changes to a long-standing tax deduction affecting state and local taxes could affect school districts, the likelihood that low-income families will benefit from new opportunities to use 529 savings plan for private school educations, and the ways in which tax changes could affect graduate students.
Backtalk
Authors: Pittinsky Todd L.
Published: January 2018

More choices aren’t necessarily better choices for parents who are trying to select a school for their child. Proponents of choice must be mindful that having so many choices may produce unintended consequences.
Abraham, The Years of Frustration: Genesis 13–14 and 15 as a Literary Unit
Authors: Zucker David J.
Published: January 2018

Genesis 13–14–15 form a discrete literary unit which portrays Abraham as generous, courageous, and yet upset and deeply discouraged. The chapters divide into two parts, 13–14 and then 15. Pairs or dualities, as well as external and internal conflicts characterize these subsections, often highlighting divergence or difference. Several significant theme-/leading-words each appear seven times in these chapters. Further, there are seven occasions in each subsection (13–14 and 15) where the name of the deity appears as the Tetragrammaton, YHWH.
Dreams Can Delude, Visions Can Deceive: Elijah's Sojourn in the Wilderness of Horeb (I Kings 19:1–21)
Authors: Hens-Piazza Gina
Published: January 2018

Elijah rises high in the religious traditions of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. Across the Old Testament accounts, the Word of the Lord continually summons the prophet to make journeys as advocate for the divine. However, Elijah's trek to the wilderness of Horeb (I Kgs 19:1–21), though marked by fear and despondency, may surface as one of his most significant sojourns. Here, the prophet's response to his own shortcomings marks him as a spiritual model rivaling perhaps all his previous achievements.
Algorithmic brand culture: participatory labour, machine learning and branding on social media
Authors: Carah Nicholas , Angus Daniel
Published: January 2018

Social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram have transformed how brands operate as cultural processes. Over the past decade, these platforms have engineered an algorithmic brand culture that combines the participatory affordances and data-processing power of digital media. In the brand culture of social media, the creative narration of cultural experience doubles as data that trains platform algorithms. We develop an account of the algorithmic brand culture of social media via a case study of the Splendour in the Grass music festival, the activations sponsoring brands build at the festival, and the participatory mediation of the festival on Instagram. Brands play a critical role in both funding and engineering social media platforms, and integrating them into cultural experience. We argue for the development of critical cultural and computational approaches that examine how the use of machines to make judgments about cultural life is intrinsic to capitalising on the participatory nature of brand culture. Media researchers must go beyond describing the content of user-generated content on platforms to critically simulate and scrutinise media platforms’ algorithmic infrastructure.
Citizenship for a New World
Authors: Krause Sharon R.
Published: January 2018

This paper highlights contributions of A Democratic Bearing, especially its conceptualization of domination and the demos, and argues that the liberal limitation of power (economic, social and political) is an important supplement to deliberative democracy in sustaining the ‘democratic bearing’ model of citizenship that the book calls for.
Eating behavior traits of successful weight losers during 12 months of alternate-day fasting: An exploratory analysis of a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Kroeger Cynthia M , Trepanowski John F , Klempel Monica C , Barnosky Adrienne , Bhutani Surabhi , Gabel Kelsey , Varady Krista A
Published: January 2018

Background:

Alternate-day fasting (ADF) has gained popularity in recent years. The diet consists of a “fast day” where an individual consumes 0–25% of their energy needs, alternated with a “feast day” where a person is permitted to eat ad libitum.

Aim:

This study examined eating behavior traits of successful weight losers during alternate day fasting.

Methods:

Obese participants ( n = 34) took part in 12 months of ADF and were grouped into a high (≥5%) or low-weight-loss (<5%) group post-treatment.

Results:

The high-weight-loss group demonstrated increased ( p = 0.04) fullness, decreased ( p = 0.03) hunger, increased dietary protein intake (15% to 20% of kcal, p = 0.04), and better adherence to fast-day calorie goals.

Conclusions:

Thus, individuals who achieve clinically significant weight loss with ADF demonstrate improved satiety, increased protein intake, and better adherence to fast-day calorie goals.
Studies on the effects of cenosphere on polypropylene matrix using silane coupling agent
Authors: Raj Mahendrasinh , Joshi Sagar , Savaliya Ravikumar , Raj Lata
Published: January 2018

Present research concentrates on the effects of a silane coupling agent on the properties and dispersibility of the polypropylene (PP)-cenosphere composite system. Improving the interfacial interaction between the hydrophobic PP matrix and cenosphere particles is important to get a good combination of properties. 3-Aminopropyltriethoxysilane and glycidyl methacrylate–grafted polypropylene (PP-g-GMA) were used as a coupling agent and compatibilizer, respectively. The surface characteristics of untreated and treated cenosphere and PP-g-GMA were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The silane treated and untreated cenosphere particles were incorporated as fillers into PP and PP-g-GMA matrix composites by mixing at different weight ratios. Such cenosphere-filled polymer composites possess attractive mechanical, thermal, morphological, flow, dispersion and chemical resistance properties.
Trade union renewal and ‘organizing from below’ in Germany: Institutional constraints, strategic dilemmas and organizational tensions
Authors: Nicklich Manuel , Helfen Markus
Published: January 2018

Organizing is widely discussed as a remedy for continued union decline. Originating in the liberal market industrial relations systems of the Anglo-Saxon world, the ‘organizing’ strategy is increasingly discussed in countries like Germany, traditionally known for consensual industrial relations and multi-employer collective bargaining. To study whether and how ‘organizing’ is translated in union organizations operating in a different institutional context, we study the link between organizational transformation and institutions in IG Metall in Germany, which was been influenced by the American Service Employees International Union (SEIU). We find a German variety of organizing rather than a mere copying of ‘best practice’: the union’s approach is based on institutional and organizational structures as a resource and constraint.
Estimating causal log-odds ratio using the case-control sample and its application in the pharmaco-epidemiology study
Authors: Zhu Anqi , Zeng Donglin , Zhang Pengyue , Li Lang
Published: January 2018

One important goal in pharmaco-epidemiology studies is to understand the causal relationship between drug exposures and their clinical outcomes, including adverse drug events. In order to achieve this goal, however, we need to resolve several challenges. Most of pharmaco-epidemiology data are observational and confounding is largely present due to many co-medications. The pharmaco-epidemiology study data set is often sampled from large medical record databases using a matched case-control design, and it may not be representative of the original patient population in the medical record databases. Data analysis method needs to handle a large sample size that cannot be handled using existing statistical analysis packages. In this paper, we tackle these challenges both methodologically and computationally. We propose a conditional causal log-odds ratio (OR) definition to characterize causal effects of drug exposures on a binary adverse drug event adjusting for individual level confounders. Using a case-control design, we present a propensity score estimation using only case samples and we provide sufficient conditions for the consistency of the estimation of the causal log-odds ratio using case-based propensity scores. Computationally, we implement a principle component analysis to reduce high-dimensional confounders. Extensive simulation studies are performed to demonstrate superior performance of our method to existing methods. Finally, we apply the proposed method to analyze drug-induced myopathy data sampled from a de-identified subset of medical record database (close to 5 million patient records), The Indiana Network for Patient Care. Our method identified 70 drug-induced myopathy ( p < 0.05) out 72 drugs, which have myoathy side effects on their FDA drug labels. These 70 drugs include three statins who are known for their myopathy side effects.
How Context Shapes Entrepreneurial Self-Efficacy as a Driver of Entrepreneurial Intentions: A Multilevel Approach
Authors: Schmutzler Jana , Andonova Veneta , Diaz-Serrano Luis
Published: January 2018

We study how the proximate and distal sociocultural environments affect the well-established relationship between entrepreneurial self-efficacy and entrepreneurial intentions. We focus on the institutional individualism–collectivism orientation of nations and the presence of nascent entrepreneurs as moderators of this relationship to account for the multilayered nature of the context. We observe that for individuals with entrepreneurial self-efficacy the positive effect of knowing nascent entrepreneurs as a driver of entrepreneurial intentions is weaker than for individuals who do not believe to be able to successfully launch a business venture. This effect is contingent on the individualistic–collectivistic character of the national culture.
On the Design of Time
Authors: Hancock Peter A.
Published: January 2018

In this article, I propose that we are able to design time. Such design opportunities extend not simply to the various conventions and frameworks we have used to measure the passage of time but also to the phenomenon of time itself. Largely encompassed in the notion of designing (spatio-temporal) experiences, I advocate for a much broader and integrative inclusion of temporality in all forms of HF/E. A central issue is whether the fundamental dimension of time is iatrogenic; that is, conceived and created by humans as a way to frame and comprehend the universe around us. In so concluding, I argue that time is one of our greatest tools. However, it is not one without flaw, nor one that cannot be honed for more effective use. I seek to engage such discussions with the present article.
The Secondary Impact of Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Townshend Jane , Norman Alyson
Published: January 2018

This study seeks to contribute to our understanding of the lived experiences of family members and friends of individuals with traumatic brain injury (TBI). The study employed an interpretative phenomenological approach, enabling family members and friends to identify and reflect upon the factors they themselves considered most significant about the impact of TBI on someone close to them, and how this experience has affected their own lives and their relationship with the TBI survivor. Eleven participants, two males and nine females aged 22–79, were from the United Kingdom. Several strong and interconnected themes emerged from the interviews, clustering into four superordinate themes: “continuity and discontinuity”; “damage, loss, and grief”; “roles and responsibility”; and “coping and not coping.” The study findings identify the importance of support and information provision for family members and friends of those with TBI to help them manage the long-term impact of TBI.
The freedom of alienated reflexive subjectivity inThe Stanley Parable
Authors: Zhu Feng
Published: January 2018

The Stanley Parable (Galactic Cafe, 2013) is a game that self-reflexively meditates on the relationship between the structure in which choices are presented to the player in first-person exploration games and contemporary concerns over freedom. It takes, as its subject matter, its own ‘variable expressiveness’, yet must also delimit that expressiveness in order to direct the player towards a self-reflexive mindset. The article proposes, by analysing three of the endings in the game, that this endeavour necessitates the game to compromise its ‘gameness’ and to move towards being a Lukácsian novel caught in an endless interiority; it must maintain a tension between giving the player freedom and room for expression, on the one hand, and being tightly focused on reflections concerning freedom and meaning, on the other. This reveals something about what computer games must sacrifice in order to grasp at meaning and also what would be required for a work to indicate that in which freedom consists. It will be argued that neither of the two kinds of subjectivity that are detailed by Lukács ((1971) The Theory of the Novel. Cambridge, Massachusetts: MIT Press) – the Homeric subject without interiority and the alienated modern subject on a Sisyphean quest for meaning – are compatible with freedom. Instead, the carefully conceived tensions to which The Stanley Parable gives rise initiates a ‘dance’ that gestures towards freedom inhering in a subjectivity which avoids these possibilities. This could only be accomplished by being more than both a game and a novel. The implications bear upon the form of a medium that can most suitably function as a homology for the aforementioned subjectivity that transcends the two Lukácsian poles.
Expert recommendations for the design of a children’s movement competence assessment tool for use by primary school teachers
Authors: Morley David , Van Rossum Thomas , Richardson David , Foweather Lawrence
Published: January 2018

A child’s early school years provide a crucial platform for them to develop fundamental movement skills (FMS), yet it has been acknowledged that there is a shortage of suitable FMS assessment tools for teachers to use within schools. To begin to address this shortfall, the purpose of this study was to elicit expert recommendations for the design of a FMS assessment tool for use by primary school teachers. A multi-phase research design was used, involving two scenario-guided focus groups with movement experts ( n = 8; five academics and three practitioners). Data captured in both focus groups were transcribed verbatim and thematically analysed. Three dichotomous dilemmas emerged from the data in relation to assessing children’s movement competence: (a) Why? For research purposes or to enhance teaching and learning?; (b) How? Should the assessment setting be engineered or natural?; and (c) What? Should the detail of the assessment be complex or simple and should the nature of the tasks be static or dynamic? These findings suggest that any future development of movement competence assessment protocols for use by primary school teachers needs to consider the specific purpose and context of the assessment.
Applying the Common Sense Model to predicting quality of life in alopecia areata: The role of illness perceptions and coping strategies
Authors: Willemse Heidi , van der Doef Margot , van Middendorp Henriët
Published: January 2018

Applying the Common Sense Model, this cross-sectional study examines associations between illness perceptions and quality of life and the mediating role of coping in 243 adults with alopecia areata, a chronic dermatological condition. At least some QoL impairment was reported by 84 percent of participants, with 31 percent reporting very to extremely large impairment. Stronger perceptions of consequences, emotional representations, identity, and lower attribution to chance were related to more impairment, with avoidant coping acting as (partial) mediator. Illness perceptions and avoidant coping seem to play an important role in QoL and are relevant intervention targets in alopecia areata.
Making meaning of cancer: A qualitative analysis of oral-digestive cancer survivors’ reflections
Authors: Moye Jennifer , Jahn Allison , Norris-Bell Rebecca , Herman Levi I , Gosian Jeffrey , Naik Aanand D
Published: January 2018

This qualitative study aimed to confirm and extend research on meaning making after cancer. In all, 119 adults aged 41 to 88 years ( M = 65.50 years and standard deviation = 9.16 years) were interviewed 12 months after diagnosis of oral-digestive cancers. About half tried to understand why they got cancer (43%) and said that cancer changed their view of life (53%). Most (75%) reported that previous life experiences helped them cope with cancer. Cancer survivors made meanings in the areas of existential, social, and personal domains with both positive and negative content. Practitioners may wish to examine meaning making in these areas for those in distress after cancer.
The transition of adolescents with juvenile idiopathic arthritis or epilepsy from paediatric health-care services to adult health-care services: A scoping review of the literature and a synthesis of the evidence
Authors: Burke Lauren , Kirkham Jamie , Arnott Janine , Gray Victoria , Peak Matthew , Beresford Michael W
Published: January 2018

Young people with long-term health conditions (LTCs) can face challenges when making the transition to adult health services. This paper sought to identify studies that assess and explore transitional care for young people with LTCs. Two conditions were used as exemplars: juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) and epilepsy. A scoping review of the literature was conducted by using search terms to search for papers in English between 2001 and 2016 concerning transitional care on four databases. Qualitative papers were reviewed and synthesized using thematic analysis. Quantitative papers using health outcomes were also synthesized. Twenty-eight papers were selected for review. Despite the wealth of literature concerning aspects of transitional care that are key to a successful transition for young people with JIA or epilepsy, there is a paucity of outcomes that define ‘successful’ transition and consequently a lack of reliable research evaluating the effectiveness of transitional care interventions to support young people moving to adult health services.
The unintended consequences of parliamentary involvement: Elite collusion and Afghanistan deployments in Canada and Germany
Authors: Lagassé Philippe , Mello Patrick A
Published: January 2018

This article argues that there is a need to question whether parliamentary involvement actually leads to the intended effects of increased democratic deliberation and responsiveness. We compare the unintended consequences of parliamentary votes on the use of force in two ‘most-different cases’: Canada and Germany. Despite substantive differences in the formal war powers of their parliaments, we find that military deployment votes on Afghanistan led to less democratic deliberation and responsiveness. Applying rationalist institutionalism, we argue that the deployment votes incentivised major parties to collude together to lessen debate on the Afghan mission, despite increasing public opposition and media attention. Rather than enhancing deliberation and responsiveness, as assumed by proponents of greater parliamentary involvement in military decisions, these parliamentary votes effectively diminished the willingness of parties to debate the mission.
Parliaments in security policy: Involvement, politicisation, and influence
Authors: Mello Patrick A , Peters Dirk
Published: January 2018

While parliaments have long been neglected actors in the analysis of security policy, a research literature on the subject is growing. Current research is focused primarily on how parliaments, relying on formal legal competences, can constrain governmental policies. However, this research needs expansion in three areas. First, informal sources of parliamentary influence on security policy deserve more systematic attention as the significance of parliaments often hinges on contextual factors and individual decision-makers. Second, we still lack a systematic understanding of the effects of parliamentary involvement on security policy. Finally, the role of parliaments for the politics of security is almost completely uncharted territory. When parliaments become involved in security policy, does it foster transparency and contribute to the politicisation of security policy so that security policy becomes a ‘normal’ political issue? The article reviews current research, derives findings from the contributions to this Special Issue, and spells out their wider implications.
Influence beyond formal powers: The parliamentarisation of European Union security policy
Authors: Rosén Guri , Raube Kolja
Published: January 2018

The European Union’s foreign and security policy is commonly described as an intergovernmental affair. Despite limited formal powers, several studies suggest that the European Parliament has increased its influence on the Union’s foreign and security policy. This article argues that, to gauge the significance of parliamentary participation, it is necessary to look beyond the notion of formal parliamentary rights and to take into account informal influence. The analysis shows how informal avenues of influence are crucial at certain stages of the decision-making process, and points to factors that constrain and enable parliamentary impact. Furthermore, it emphasises the important role that parliaments play in scrutinising security policy, which is a crucial component of democratic governance. In this particular field where there is little legislation, the establishment of solid procedures and practices for oversight and control can also be a significant indicator of parliamentary influence.
Strategic management theory and universities: An overview of the Special Issue
Authors: Siegel Donald S. , Leih Sohvi
Published: January 2018

There are few theoretical frameworks to address organizational challenges and strategies of research universities. We conjecture that strategic management theory provides an opportunity to examine those challenges, such as increased competition, tight budgetary constraints, and rising stakeholder expectations. More specifically, the dynamic capabilities framework has emerged as a useful tool for universities to better manage important issues such as commercializing their innovations, partnering with industry and promoting economic and social development in their regions. Our essay and the papers in this special issue address these issues.
SutureHap
Authors: Ricardez Eusebio , Noguez Julieta , Neri Luis , Escobar-Castillejos David , Munoz Lourdes
Published: January 2018

Haptic devices have been highly valued in virtual training environments in the medical field. Nevertheless, the principal challenges to develop these environments are the complexity to model the virtual elements and to provide proper haptic feedback during tasks. In this study, it was decided to take advantage of NVIDIA PhysX physics engine to produce a fast and effortless process in the creation of a virtual training environment for suturing tasks. Although PhysX correctly deploys collisions between solid and deformable objects in the graphical environment, it does not send this information to the developers environment to provide haptic rendering. Therefore, in this article, a “simplified method” was proposed to facilitate the detection of collisions between rigid and deformable bodies. This simplified method allows the calculation of haptic feedback to be displayed, and it avoids complexity and high computational costs. Additionally, an architecture to facilitate the integration of haptic devices was designed. The study case proposed in this work was the development of an application to perform a suturing task, SutureHap. The system was tested by volunteers from different areas and senior medical students. The latter pointed out that SutureHap is very promising, and it could be a useful tool to develop surgical skills. Finally, participants agreed that the use of the elements in the environment is reasonably intuitive, and all of them stated that they would recommend the simulator.
Lithium reverses mechanical allodynia through a mu opioid-dependent mechanism
Authors: Weinsanto Ivan , Mouheiche Jinane , Laux-Biehlmann Alexis , Aouad Maya , Maduna Tando , Petit-Demoulière Nathalie , Chavant Virginie , Poisbeau Pierrick , Darbon Pascal , Charlet Alexandre , Giersch Anne , Parat Marie-Odile , Goumon Yannick
Published: January 2018

Background

Lithium is widely used to treat bipolar disorders and displays mood stabilizing properties. In addition, lithium relieves painful cluster headaches and has a strong analgesic effect in neuropathic pain rat models.

Objectives

To investigate the analgesic effect of lithium on the cuff model of neuropathic pain.

Methods

We used behavioral and pharmacological approaches to study the analgesic effect of a single injection of lithium in wild-type and mu opioid receptor (MOR) null cuffed neuropathic mice. Mass spectrometry and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay allowed to measure the levels of endogenous MOR agonist beta-endorphin as well as monoamines in brain and plasma samples 4 h after lithium administration.

Results

A single injection of lithium chloride (100 mg/kg, ip) alleviated mechanical allodynia for 24 h, and this effect was absent in MOR null neuropathic mice. Biochemical analyses highlight a significant increase in beta-endorphin levels by 30% in the brain of lithium-treated mice compared to controls. No variation of beta-endorphin was detected in the blood.

Conclusions

Together, our results provide evidence that lithium induces a long-lasting analgesia in neuropathic mice presumably through elevated brain levels of beta-endorphin and the activation of MORs.
Executive processes and timing: Comparing timing with and without reference memory
Authors: Ogden Ruth S , MacKenzie-Phelan Rhiannon , Mongtomery Catharine , Fisk John E , Wearden John H
Published: January 2018

Temporal perception is influenced by executive function. However, performance on different temporal tasks is often associated with different executive functions. This study examined whether using reference memory during a task influenced how performance was associated with executive resources. Participants completed temporal generalisation and bisection tasks, in their normal versions involving reference memory and in episodic versions without reference memory. Each timing task had two difficulty levels: easy and hard. Correlations between performance on these tasks and measures of executive function (updating, inhibition, task switching, and access to semantic memory) were assessed. Accuracy on the temporal generalisation task was correlated with memory access for all versions of the task. Updating correlated with accuracy only for the reference memory-based version of the task. Temporal bisection performance presented a different pattern of correlations. The bisection point was negatively correlated with inhibition scores, except for the easy episodic condition. The Weber ratio, considered a measure of temporal sensitivity, was negatively correlated with memory access only in the hard episodic condition. Together, the findings suggest that previous models of generalisation and bisection may not accurately reflect the underlying cognitive processes involved in the tasks.
The Impact of Operating Room Layout on Circulating Nurse’s Work Patterns and Flow Disruptions: A Behavioral Mapping Study
Authors: Bayramzadeh Sara , Joseph Anjali , San Dee , Khoshkenar Amin , Taaffe Kevin , Jafarifiroozabadi Roxana , Neyens David M. ,   RIPCHD.OR Study Group
Published: January 2018

Aim:

To assess how the adjacencies of functionally different areas within operating rooms (ORs) can influence the circulating nurse’s (CN) workflow patterns and disruptions.

Background:

The CN plays a significant role in promoting patient safety during surgical procedures by observing, monitoring, and managing potential threats at and around the surgical field. Their work requires constant movement to different parts of the OR to support team members. The layout of the OR and crowded and cluttered environment might impact the CN’s workflow and cause disruptions during the surgery.

Method:

A convenience sample of 25 surgeries were video recorded and thematically coded for CN’s activities, locations, and flow disruptions. The OR layout was categorized into transitional zones and functional zones (workstations, supply zones, support zones, and sterile areas around the surgical table). CN’s activities were classified into patient-, equipment-, material-, and information-related activities. Flow disruptions included those related to environmental hazards and layout.

Results:

The CN traveled through multiple zones during 91% of the activities. The CN’s workstation acted as a main hub from which the CN made frequent trips to both sides of the surgical table, the foot of the OR table, supply zones, and support zones. Transitional zones accounted for 58.3% of all flow disruption that the CN was involved in whereas 28% occurred in areas surrounding the OR bed.

Conclusion:

The similarity of the movement and flow disruption patterns, despite variations in OR layout, highlighted the adjacencies required between major zones that CNs regularly visit. These optimum adjacencies should be considered while designing ORs such that they are more efficient and safer.
Evidence-Based Review of Clinical Diagnostic Tests and Predictive Clinical Tests That Evaluate Response to Conservative Rehabilitation for Posterior Glenohumeral Instability: A Systematic Review
Authors: Dhir Jasdeep , Willis Myles , Watson Lyn , Somerville Lyndsay , Sadi Jackie
Published: January 2018

Context:

Posterior glenohumeral instability is poorly understood and can be challenging to recognize and evaluate. Using evidence-based clinical and predictive tests can assist clinicians in appropriate assessment and management.

Objective:

To review evidence-based clinical diagnostic tests for posterior glenohumeral instability and predictive tests that identify responders to conservative management.

Data Sources:

A comprehensive electronic bibliographic search was conducted using Embase, Ovid MEDLINE, PEDro, and CINAHL databases from their date of inception to February 2017.

Study Selection:

Studies were included for further review if they (1) reported on clinical diagnostic tests for posterior or posteroinferior instability of the glenohumeral joint, (2) assessed predictive clinical tests for posterior instability of the glenohumeral joint, and (3) were in English.

Study Design:

Systematic review.

Level of Evidence:

Level 4.

Data Extraction:

Data were extracted from the studies by 2 independent reviewers and included patient demographics and characteristics, index/reference test details (name and description of test), findings, and data available to calculate psychometric properties.

Results:

Five diagnostic and 2 predictive studies were selected for review. There was weak evidence for the use of the jerk test, Kim test, posterior impingement sign, and O’Brien test as stand-alone clinical tests for identifying posterior instability. Additionally, there was weak evidence to support the use of the painless jerk test and the hand squeeze sign as predictive tests for responders to conservative management. These findings are attributed to study design limitations, including small and/or nonrepresentative samples.

Conclusion:

Clustering of thorough history and physical examination findings, including the aforementioned tests, may identify those with posterior glenohumeral instability and assist in developing management strategies.
Posttransplant chimeric antigen receptor therapy
Authors: Smith Melody , Zakrzewski Johannes , James Scott , Sadelain Michel
Published: January 2018

Therapeutic T-cell engineering is emerging as a powerful approach to treat refractory hematological malignancies. Its most successful embodiment to date is based on the use of second-generation chimeric antigen receptors (CARs) targeting CD19, a cell surface molecule found in most B-cell leukemias and lymphomas. Remarkable complete remissions have been obtained with autologous T cells expressing CD19 CARs in patients with relapsed, chemo-refractory B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia, chronic lymphocytic leukemia, and non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Allogeneic CAR T cells may also be harnessed to treat relapse after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. However, the use of donor T cells poses unique challenges owing to potential alloreactivity. We review different approaches to mitigate the risk of causing or aggravating graft-versus-host disease (GVHD), including CAR therapies based on donor leukocyte infusion, virus-specific T cells, T-cell receptor–deficient T cells, lymphoid progenitor cells, and regulatory T cells. Advances in CAR design, T-cell selection and gene editing are poised to enable the safe use of allogeneic CAR T cells without incurring GVHD.