bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Researcher reflexivity: what it is and what it can be
Authors: Letiche Hugo
Published: November 2017

Purpose

Second-order cybernetics is explored here as a learning intervention strategy. Researcher reflexivity, both the student’s and the professor’s, that is asserted is crucial to achieving a liberatory learning experience. But as Lacan has revealed, the “symbolic” (written, represented and studied) has a complex relationship to the “real”, which needs the “imaginary” to be active and creative. The aim of this paper is to investigate the complexity of these relationships and their import for reflexive learning, as it is grounded in second-order cybernetics.

Design/methodology/approach

This is a conceptual paper, comparing second-order cybernetics to current insights into researcher reflexivity, especially as grounded in Lacan and as it has been translated into an intervention strategy by Zizek and applied by the author. Supervision of MBA theses is examined as an exemplar.

Findings

A theory of researcher reflexivity is outlined with practical potential, which was demonstrated at the ASC 2016 conference.

Research limitations/implications

Exemplary learning is demonstrated and guidelines of practical significance are indicated, but these are not here further empirically researched.

Practical implications

The complexity of the “imaginary–symbolic–real” model and its value for reflexive learning is investigated. The application value of the model to learning and second-order cybernetics is developed.

Social/implications

A reflexive intervention is demonstrated in how one sees student/professor supervision and interaction.

Originality/value

Building on Glanville, it is shown that multiple reflexivities are needed to be put into play for second-order cybernetics to productively inform university practice. A difference of differences is needed to complexify feedback processes for cybernetic interventions to (best) succeed. The import of current theoretical debates from Lacan and Zizek to cybernetics is indicated.
Developing accreditation for community based surgery: the Irish experience
Authors: Ní Riain Ailís , Collins Claire , O’Sullivan Tony
Published: November 2017

Purpose

Carrying out minor surgery procedures in the primary care setting is popular with patients, cost effective and delivers at least as good outcomes as those performed in the hospital setting. This paper aims to describe the central role of clinical leadership in developing an accreditation system for general practitioners (GPs) undertaking community-based surgery in the Irish national setting where no mandatory accreditation process currently exists.

Design/methodology/approach

In all, 24 GPs were recruited to the GP network. Ten pilot standards were developed addressing GPs’ experience and training, clinical activity and practice supporting infrastructure and tested, using information and document review, prospective collection of clinical data and a practice inspection visit. Two additional components were incorporated into the project (patient satisfaction survey and self-audit). A multi-modal evaluation was undertaken. A majority of GPs was included at all stages of the project, in line with the principles of action learning. The steering group had a majority of GPs with relevant expertise and representation of all other actors in the minor surgery arena. The GP research network contributed to each stage of the project. The project lead was a GP with minor surgery experience. Quantitative data collected were analysed using Predictive Analytic SoftWare. Krueger’s framework analysis approach was used to analyse the qualitative data.

Findings

A total of 9 GPs achieved all standards at initial review, 14 successfully completed corrective actions and 1 GP did not achieve the required standard. Standards were then amended to reflect findings and a supporting framework was developed.

Originality/value

The flexibility of the action-learning approach and the clinical leadership design allowed for the development of robust quality standards in a short timeframe.
Authentic leadership in healthcare: a scoping review
Authors: Malila Niina , Lunkka Nina , Suhonen Marjo
Published: November 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to review peer-reviewed original research articles on authentic leadership (AL) in health care to identify potential research gaps and present recommendations for future research. The objectives are to examine and map evidence of the main characteristics, research themes and methodologies in the studies. AL is a leader’s non-authoritarian, ethical and transparent behaviour pattern.

Design/methodology/approach

A scoping review with thematic analysis was conducted. A three-step search strategy was used with database and manual searches. The included studies were composed of English language peer-reviewed original research articles referring to both AL and health care.

Findings

In total, 29 studies were included. The studies favoured Canadian nurses in acute care hospitals. AL was understood as its original definition. The review identified four research themes: well-being at work, patient care quality, work environment and AL promotion. Quantitative research methodology with the authentic leadership questionnaire and cross-sectional design were prevalent.

Research limitations/implications

Future research needs more variation in research themes, study populations, settings, organisations, work sectors, geographical origins and theory perspectives. Different research methodologies, such as qualitative and mixed methods research and longitudinal designs, should be used more.

Originality/value

This is presumably the first literature review to map the research on AL in health care.
Education and employment outcomes of young adults with a history of developmental language disorder
Authors: Conti‐Ramsden Gina , Durkin Kevin , Toseeb Umar , Botting Nicola , Pickles Andrew
Published: November 2017

Background

Developmental language disorder (DLD) presents a considerable barrier for young adults to engage in further education and training. Early studies with young adults with DLD revealed poor educational achievement and lack of opportunities to progress in education. More recent studies have provided more positive findings. Relatively sparse data exist, however, on current cohorts and the factors that predict outcomes.

Aims

To examine educational and employment outcomes in young adulthood in a sample of people with histories of DLD compared with an age‐matched peer group without DLD. We ask: How do educational pathways and early jobs compare between those with and without DLD? Are young adults with DLD receiving similar levels of income as their peers? To what extent are language and literacy abilities associated with outcomes?

Methods & Procedures

Participants included 84 individuals with DLD (67% males) and 88 age‐matched peers without DLD (56% males). Participants were on average 24 years of age. They completed a battery of psycholinguistic, literacy and nonverbal skills assessments. Data were also collected on educational qualifications, current educational status, extent of educational support received, employment status, history and support, as well as current income.

Outcomes & Results

Those with DLD obtained lower academic and vocational qualifications. Higher educational/vocational qualifications were associated with better language, better reading and higher performance IQ (PIQ). There were few differences between the two groups in terms of engagement with education, but the mean age at leaving education was significantly earlier in the participants with DLD. Substantially more participants with DLD reported receiving support or dispensation from their educational institution. There was no significant difference between groups in the proportion of young people currently employed, though a higher proportion of the age‐matched peers was in work full time. Participants with DLD were much more likely to be in non‐professional occupations. However, when examining pay in relation to types of occupation, the groups’ incomes were broadly comparable.

Conclusions & Implications

At the group level, young people with a history of DLD more commonly have less skilled employment and more rarely achieve professional roles. At the individual level there is considerable variation with smaller but not trivial proportions of young adults with a history of DLD showing good educational and employment outcomes. There are positive aspects to early adult outcomes for some young people with a history of DLD.
Risk profiles of personality traits for suicidality among mood disorder patients and community controls
Authors: Su M.‐H. , Chen H.‐C. , Lu M.‐L. , Feng J. , Chen I.‐M. , Wu C.‐S. , Chang S.‐W. , Kuo P.‐H.
Published: November 2017

Objective

To examine the associations between personality traits and suicidal ideation (SI) and attempt (SA) in mood disorder patients and community controls.

Method

We recruited 365 bipolar, 296 major depressive disorder patients, and 315 community controls to assess their lifetime suicidality. Participants filled out self‐reported personality questionnaires to collect data of personality traits, including novelty seeking (NS), harm avoidance (HA), extraversion (E), and neuroticism (N). We used logistic regression models adjusted for diagnoses to analyze combinational effects of personality traits on the risk of suicide. Additionally, radar charts display personality profiles for suicidal behaviours by groups.

Results

All personality traits were associated with the risk of suicidality with various effect size, except for E that showed protective effect. High N or HA had prominent and independent risk effects on SI and SA. Combinations of high N and low E, or high HA and NS were the risk personality profiles for suicidality. Higher N scores further distinguished SA from SI in mood disorder patients.

Conclusion

Introvert personality traits showed independent risk effects on suicidality regardless of diagnosis status. Among high‐risk individuals with suicidal thoughts, higher neuroticism tendency is further associated with increased risk of suicide attempt.
Religiosity and psychological resilience in patients with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder: an international cross‐sectional study
Authors: Mizuno Y. , Hofer A. , Frajo‐Apor B. , Wartelsteiner F. , Kemmler G. , Pardeller S. , Suzuki T. , Mimura M. , Fleischhacker W. W. , Uchida H.
Published: November 2017

Objective

The impact of religious/spiritual activities on clinical outcomes in patients with serious mental illnesses remains controversial, which was addressed in this international cross‐sectional study.

Method

Three‐hundred sixty‐nine subjects were recruited from Austria (n = 189) and Japan (n = 180), consisting of 112 outpatients with paranoid schizophrenia, 120 with bipolar I disorder (DSM‐IV), and 137 healthy controls. Religiosity was assessed in terms of attendance and importance of religious/spiritual activities, while resilience was assessed using the 25‐item Resilience Scale. General linear models were used to test whether higher religiosity will be associated with higher resilience, higher social functioning, and lower psychopathology. The association between levels of spiritual well‐being and resilience was also examined.

Results

Attendance of religious services (F[4,365] = 0.827, P = 0.509) and importance of religion/spirituality (F[3,365] = 1.513, P = 0.211) did not show significant associations with resilience. Regarding clinical measures, a modest association between higher importance of religion/spirituality and residual manic symptoms was observed in bipolar patients (F[3,118] = 3.120, P = 0.029). In contrast to the findings regarding religiosity, spiritual well‐being showed a strong positive correlation with resilience (r = 0.584, P < 0.001).

Conclusion

The protective effect of religiosity in terms of resilience, social functioning, and psychopathology was not evident in our sample. Spiritual well‐being appears more relevant to resilience than religiosity.
A man before his time: Russell's insights into nicotine, smoking, treatment and curbing the smoking problem
Authors: McNeill Ann , Robson Debbie
Published: November 2017

Background and aims

This narrative review aimed to provide a brief overview of five key research ‘classics’ produced by the innovative and radical thought leader, Professor Michael Anthony Hamilton Russell (1932–2009), drawing upon his other work wherever feasible.

Methods

Narrative review. From more than 250 publications, we selected papers we considered seminal texts, published in 1971, 1976, 1978, 1979 and 1991.

Results

Russell was among the first researchers to explain that smoking was a dependence disorder caused by the drug nicotine decades before this was recognized formally. He therefore saw quickly the importance of delivering nicotine in a less harmful format as a way of controlling nicotine withdrawal when stopping smoking, first studying nicotine gum. In addition to pharmacotherapies, Russell's research also explored the role of behavioural support, particularly the role of general practitioners (GPs), alone as well as supported by specialist clinics; this research underpinned initiatives in England to reimburse doctors for giving advice to smokers, and to provide a national network of smoking cessation services. Research on nicotine uptake from other delivery systems and routes led Russell to theorize that the speed and dose of delivery impacted upon the effectiveness of a product to act as a substitute for smoking. He commented on the addictiveness of the high nicotine boli delivered in quick succession when smoking cigarettes and argued that alternative recreational nicotine delivery systems would need to be promoted actively to smokers in order for them to compete with cigarettes, a forerunner for contemporary debates on electronic cigarettes.

Conclusions

The legacy of Russell's landmark research is seen in present‐day nicotine science, policy and discourse.
Quantifying Publication Bias in Meta-Analysis
Authors: Lin Lifeng , Chu Haitao
Published: November 2017

Publication bias is a serious problem in systematic reviews and meta-analyses, which can affect the validity and generalization of conclusions. Currently, approaches to dealing with publication bias can be distinguished into two classes: selection models and funnel-plot-based methods. Selection models use weight functions to adjust the overall effect size estimate and are usually employed as sensitivity analyses to assess the potential impact of publication bias. Funnel-plot-based methods include visual examination of a funnel plot, regression and rank tests, and the nonparametric trim and fill method. Although these approaches have been widely used in applications, measures for quantifying publication bias are seldom studied in the literature. Such measures can be used as a characteristic of a meta-analysis; also, they permit comparisons of publication biases between different meta-analyses. Egger's regression intercept may be considered as a candidate measure, but it lacks an intuitive interpretation. This article introduces a new measure, the skewness of the standardized deviates, to quantify publication bias. This measure describes the asymmetry of the collected studies’ distribution. In addition, a new test for publication bias is derived based on the skewness. Large sample properties of the new measure are studied, and its performance is illustrated using simulations and three case studies.
Benefit finding trajectories in cancer patients receiving psychological care: Predictors and relations to depressive and anxiety symptoms
Authors: Zhu Lei , Ranchor Adelita V. , Helgeson Vicki S. , van der Lee Marije , Garssen Bert , Stewart Roy E. , Sanderman Robbert , Schroevers Maya J.
Published: November 2017

Objectives

This study aimed to (1) identify benefit finding trajectories in cancer patients receiving psychological care; (2) examine associations of benefit finding trajectories with levels of and changes in psychological symptoms; and (3) examine whether socio‐demographic and medical characteristics distinguished trajectories.

Design

Naturalistic longitudinal study design.

Methods

Participants were 241 cancer patients receiving psychological care at specialized psycho‐oncological institutions in the Netherlands. Data were collected before starting psychological care, and three and 9 months thereafter. Latent class growth analysis was performed to identify benefit finding trajectories.

Results

Five benefit finding trajectories were identified: ‘high level‐stable’ (8%), ‘very low level‐small increase’ (16%), ‘low level‐small increase’ (39%), ‘low level‐large increase’ (9%), and ‘moderate level‐stable’ (28%). People in distinct benefit finding trajectories reported significant differential courses of depression but not of anxiety symptoms. Compared with the other four trajectories, people in the ‘low level‐large increase’ trajectory reported the largest decreases in depression over time. Perceptions of cancer prognosis distinguished these trajectories, such that people with a favourable prognosis were more likely to belong to the ‘high level‐stable’ trajectory, while people perceiving an uncertain prognosis were more likely to belong to the ‘low level‐large increase’ trajectory of benefit finding.

Conclusions

Cancer patients showed distinct benefit finding trajectories during psychological care. A small proportion reporting a large increase in benefit finding were also most likely to show decreases in depressive symptoms over time. These findings suggest a relation between perceiving benefits from cancer experience and improved psychological functioning in cancer patients receiving psychological care.

Statement of contribution

What is already known on this subject?

People vary in course of benefit finding (BF) after trauma, with some experiencing enhanced BF and others decreased BF.

Empirical studies have identified subgroups of cancer patients with distinct BF trajectories.

What does this study add?

This is the first study showing that cancer patients followed different BF trajectories during psychological care.

Only a small proportion experienced clinically meaningful increases in BF over time.

More attention is needed for cancer patients with decreased BF, as they are at a higher risk of remaining depressed.
How Will Higher Minimum Wages Affect Family Life and Children's Well‐Being?
Authors: Hill Heather D. , Romich Jennifer
Published: November 2017

In recent years, new national and regional minimum wage laws have been passed in the United States and other countries. The laws assume that benefits flow not only to workers but also to their children. Adolescent workers will most likely be affected directly given their concentration in low‐paying jobs, but younger children may be affected indirectly by changes in parents’ work conditions, family income, and the quality of nonparental child care. Research on minimum wages suggests modest and mixed economic effects: Decreases in employment can offset, partly or fully, wage increases, and modest reductions in poverty rates may fade over time. Few studies have examined the effects of minimum wage increases on the well‐being of families, adults, and children. In this article, we use theoretical frameworks and empirical evidence concerning the effects on children of parental work and family income to suggest hypotheses about the effects of minimum wage increases on family life and children's well‐being.
Immune checkpoint inhibitors: new strategies to checkmate cancer
Authors: Wilson R A M , Evans T R J , Fraser A R , Nibbs R J B
Published: November 2017

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) targeting cytotoxic T lymphocyte-associated protein-4 (CTLA-4) or programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) receptors have demonstrated remarkable efficacy in subsets of patients with malignant disease. This emerging treatment modality holds great promise for future cancer treatment and has engaged pharmaceutical research interests in tumour immunology. While ICIs can induce rapid and durable responses in some patients, identifying predictive factors for effective clinical responses has proved challenging. This review summarizes the mechanisms of action of ICIs and outlines important preclinical work that contributed to their development. We explore clinical data that has led to disease-specific drug licensing, and highlight key clinical trials that have revealed ICI efficacy across a range of malignancies. We describe how ICIs have been used as part of combination therapies, and explore their future prospects in this area. We conclude by discussing the incorporation of these new immunotherapeutics into precision approaches to cancer therapy.
Improving pancreas graft utilization through importation
Authors: Torabi Julia , Rocca Juan P. , Choinski Krystina , Lorenzen Katherine , Yongue Camille , Lubetzsky Michelle L. , Herbert Melvon E. , Chokechanachaisakul Attasit , Ajaimy Maria , Kamal Layla , Akalin Enver , Kinkhabwala Milan , Graham Jay A.
Published: November 2017

Background

We analyze our outcomes utilizing imported allografts as a strategy to shorten wait list time for pancreas transplantation.

Methods

This is an observational retrospective cohort of 26 recipients who received either a locally procured (n = 16) or an imported pancreas graft (n = 10) at our center between January 2014 and May 2017. Wait list times of this cohort were compared to UNOS Region 9 (New York State and Western Vermont). Hospital financial data were also reviewed to analyze the cost‐effectiveness of this strategy.

Results

Imported pancreas grafts had significantly increased cold ischemia times (CIT) and peak lipase (PL) levels compared to locally procured grafts (CIT 827 vs 497 minutes; P = .001, PL 563 vs 157 u/L; P = .023, respectively). There were no differences in graft or patient survival. The median wait time was significantly lower for simultaneous kidney‐pancreas transplants at our center (518 days, n = 21) compared to Region 9 (1001 days, n = 65) P = .038. Despite financial concerns, the cost of transport for imported grafts was offset by lower standard acquisition costs.

Conclusions

Imported pancreas grafts may be a cost‐effective strategy to increase organ utilization and shorten wait times in regions with longer waiting times.
A phase Ib, open‐label, single arm study to assess the safety, pharmacokinetics, and impact on humoral sensitization of SANGUINATE infusion in patients with end‐stage renal disease
Authors: Abu Jawdeh Bassam G. , Woodle Ervin Steve , Leino Abbie D. , Brailey Paul , Tremblay Simon , Dorst Tonya , Abdallah Mouhamad H. , Govil Amit , Byczkowski Daniel , Misra Hemant , Abuchowski Abraham , Alloway Rita R.
Published: November 2017

The endeavor to study desensitization in kidney transplantation has not been matched by an effort to investigate strategies to prevent sensitization. In this study (NCT02437422), we investigated the safety, impact on sensitization, and pharmacokinetics of SANGUINATE (SG), a hemoglobin‐based oxygen carrier, as a potential alternative to packed red blood cells (PRBC) in transplant candidates with end‐stage renal disease (ESRD). Ten ESRD subjects meeting inclusion/exclusion (I/E) criteria were planned to receive three weekly infusions of SG (320 mg/kg). The study was stopped after five subjects were enrolled, and their data were analyzed after completing a follow‐up period of 90 days. Two subjects had elevated troponin I levels in setting of SG infusion, one of which was interpreted as a non‐ST elevation myocardial infarction. All other adverse events were transient. SG pharmacokinetic analysis showed mean (SD) Cmax, Tmax, AUC, and half‐life of 4.39 (0.69) mg/mL, 2.42 (0.91) hours, 171.86 (52.35) mg h/mL, and 40.60 (11.96) hours, respectively. None of the subjects developed new anti‐HLA antibodies following SG infusion and throughout the study period. In conclusion, SG is a potential alternative to PRBCs in ESRD patients considered for kidney transplantation as it was not associated with humoral sensitization. Larger studies in highly sensitized patients are required to further evaluate for potential safety signals.
Syntaxin 1B contributes to regulation of the dopaminergic system through GABA transmission in the CNS
Authors: Fujiwara Tomonori , Kofuji Takefumi , Mishima Tatsuya , Akagawa Kimio
Published: November 2017

In neuronal plasma membrane, two syntaxin isoforms, HPC‐1/syntaxin 1A (STX1A) and syntaxin 1B (STX1B), are predominantly expressed as soluble N‐ethylmaleimide‐sensitive fusion attachment protein receptors, also known as t‐SNAREs. We previously reported that glutamatergic and GABAergic synaptic transmissions are impaired in Stx1b null mutant (Stx1b−/−) mice but are almost normal in Stx1a null mutant (Stx1a−/−) mice. These observations suggested that STX1A and STX1B have distinct functions in fast synaptic transmission in the central nervous system (CNS). Interestingly, recent studies indicated that Stx1a−/− or Stx1a+/− mice exhibit disruption in the monoaminergic system in the CNS, causing unusual behaviour that is similar to neuropsychological alterations observed in psychiatric patients. Here, we studied whether STX1B contributes to the regulation of monoaminergic system and if STX1B is related to neuropsychological properties in human neuropsychological disorders similar to STX1A. We found that monoamine release in vitro was normal in Stx1b+/− mice unlike Stx1a−/− or Stx1a+/− mice, but the basal extracellular dopamine (DA) concentration in the ventral striatum was increased. DA secretion in the ventral striatum is regulated by GABAergic neurons, and Stx1b+/− mice exhibited reduced GABA release both in vitro and in vivo, disrupting the DAergic system in the CNS of these mice. We also found that Stx1b+/− mice exhibited reduced pre‐pulse inhibition (PPI), which is believed to represent one of the prominent schizotypal behavioural profiles of human psychiatric patients. The reduction in PPI was rescued by DA receptor antagonists. These observations indicated that STX1B contributes to excess activity of the DAergic system through regulation of GABAergic transmission.
Vegetation cover—another dominant factor in determining global water resources in forested regions
Authors: Wei Xiaohua , Li Qiang , Zhang Mingfang , Giles‐Hansen Krysta , Liu Wenfei , Fan Houbao , Wang Yi , Zhou Guoyi , Piao Shilong , Liu Shirong
Published: November 2017

Forested catchments provide critically important water resources. Due to dramatic global forest change over the past decades, the importance of including forest or vegetation change in the assessment of water resources under climate change has been highly recognized by Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC); however, this importance has not yet been examined quantitatively across the globe. Here, we used four remote sensing‐based indices to represent changes in vegetation cover in forest‐dominated regions, and then applied them to widely used models: the Fuh model and the Choudhury‐Yang model to assess relative contributions of vegetation and climate change to annual runoff variations from 2000 to 2011 in forested landscape (forest coverage >30%) across the globe. Our simulations show that the global average variation in annual runoff due to change in vegetation cover is 30.7% ± 22.5% with the rest attributed to climate change. Large annual runoff variation in response to vegetation change is found in tropical and boreal forests due to greater forest losses. Our simulations also demonstrate both offsetting and additive effects of vegetation cover and climate in determining water resource change. We conclude that vegetation cover change must be included in any global models for assessing global water resource change under climate change in forest‐dominant areas.
Factors associated with home hazards: Findings from the Malaysian Elders Longitudinal Research study
Authors: Romli Muhammad H , Tan Maw P , Mackenzie Lynette , Lovarini Meryl , Kamaruzzaman Shahrul B , Clemson Lindy
Published: November 2017

Aim

Previous studies have investigated home hazards as a risk factor for falls without considering factors associated with the presence of home hazards. The present study aimed to determine patterns of home hazards among urban community‐dwelling older Malaysians, and to identify factors contributing to home hazards.

Methods

Cross‐sectional data from the initial wave of the Malaysian Elders Longitudinal Research study were used. Basic demographics were obtained from the Global Questionnaire. Basic and instrumental activities of daily living were measured using the Katz and Lawton–Brody scales, and home hazards were identified using the Home Falls and Accidents Screening Tool. Participants were also asked if they had fallen in the previous 12 months.

Results

Data were analyzed from 1489 participants. Hazards were frequently identified (>30%) in the toilet and bathroom areas (no grab rail, no non‐slip mat, distant toilet), slippery floors, no bedside light access and inappropriate footwear. Lower educational attainment, traditional housing, Chinese ethnicity, greater number of home occupants, lower monthly expenditure, poor vision and younger age were the factors independently associated with home hazards.

Conclusions

This study provides evidence that home hazards are a product of the interaction of the individual's function within their home environment. Hazards are also influenced by local sociocultural and environmental factors. The relationship between home hazards and falls appears complex and deserves further evaluation. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2018; 18: 387–395.
Survival prediction among nursing home residents: A longitudinal study
Authors: Lai Claudia Kam Yuk , Ho Lily Yuen Wah , Chin Kenny Chi Wing , Kwong Enid Wai Yung
Published: November 2017

Aim

To determine the survival time and predictors of survival of residents in a nursing home.

Methods

Nursing home residents admitted from June 2008 (when the nursing home started operating) to December 2012 (n = 230) to a new nursing home in Hong Kong were prospectively followed. The predictors of survival in the residents were assessed annually, with the exception of those who did not want to continue with the study, or were hospitalized, discharged from the nursing home or died, to compare changes occurring from 2008 to 2012. Cox's regression analysis was used to examine the predictors of survival.

Results

A total of 66 of the nursing home residents (28.7%) died during the study period. The median length of survival was 20.46 months. Sex, the number of diseases, depressive symptoms, cognitive status and nutritional status were found to be significant predictors of survival.

Conclusions

It is crucial for healthcare providers to offer quality care to residents in long‐term care to enhance their well‐being in the final sojourn of their lives. Although there are no consistent reports of predictors in the international literature, it is important to address the modifiable predictors, as this might lead to improvements in the quality of life of the residents. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2018; 18: 428–433.
Interaction among smoking status, single nucleotide polymorphisms and markers of systemic inflammation in healthy individuals
Authors: Luetragoon Thitiya , Rutqvist Lars E. , Tangvarasittichai Orathai , Andersson Bengt‐Åke , Löfgren Sture , Usuwanthim Kanchana , Lewin Nongnit L.
Published: November 2017

Cigarette smoke contains toxic and carcinogenic substances that contribute to the development of cancer and various diseases. Genetic variation might be important, because not all smokers develop smoking‐related disease. The current study addressed the possible interactions among selected single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in genes related to systemic inflammation, smoking status, the levels of circulating immune response cells and plasma biomarkers of systemic inflammation. Sixty‐four healthy blood donors were recruited, 31 of whom were current smokers and 33 were never‐users of tobacco products, references. Compared to references, the smokers showed significantly increased levels of circulating total white blood cells, lymphocytes, monocytes, neutrophils, basophils and C‐reactive protein (CRP). Smokers also more frequently exhibited circulating cell phenotypes that are associated with an immunocompromised state: CD8dim cells in the lymphocyte group, CD13+ CD11+, CD13+ CD14+, CD13+ CD56+ cells in the monocyte group and CD13+ CD11+, CD13+ CD56+ cells in the neutrophil group. We observed an interaction among SNPs, smoking status and some of the studied biomarkers. The average plasma CRP level was significantly higher among the smokers, with the highest level found among those with the CRP rs1800947 CC genotype. Additionally, an increased CD8+ GZB+ cells in the CD8dim group were found among smokers with the GZB rs8192917 AA genotype. Thus, smoking appears to be associated with systemic inflammation and increased levels of circulating immunosuppressive cells. The extent of these effects was associated with SNPs among the smokers. This observation may contribute to a better understanding of the genetic susceptibility of smoking‐related disease and the variations observed in clinical outcomes.
18. New Genera and Species of Ethiopian Tabanidæ, Subfamily Pangoniinæ (Diptera)
Authors: Austen E. E.
Published: November 2017

Summary

In the foregoing paper, two new genera and thirteen new species of Ethiopian Tabanidæ, subfamily Pangoniinæ, are described and figured: a list of these genera and species, showing the provenance of the type or typical series in each case, is appended.

Bacloceras, gen. nov.

turneri, sp. n. Natal.

Sphecodemyia, gen. nov.

lamborni, sp. n. Nyasaland Protectorate.

secunda, sp. n.

Hinea hiqvhris, sp. n. Rhodesia (Southern and Northern).

bicolor, sp. n. Nyasaland Protectorate.

Buplex albicinctus, sp. n. South Africa Cape Province).

Phara tumidifacies, sp. n. ( ).

nigripleuris, sp. n. ( ).

bivirgulata, sp. n. Natal; Zululand.

bracteata, sp. n. Nyasaland Protectorate; Southern Rhodesia.

Silvius contrarius, sp. n. South Africa (Cape Province).

pulchripennis, sp. n. Kenya Colony.

Chrysops perpensa, sp. n. Nyasaland Protectorate.

Both species of Sphecodemyia are remarkably wasp like in appearance; and, though unfortunately in neither case has it yet proved possible to identify the model, the strongly mimetic character of this new genus is as undeniable as the even more elaborate and astonishing resemblance between Melissomorpha indiana Ricardo, an Oriental Pangoniine discovered in Sikhim by the late Lt. Col. C. T. Bingham, and the worker of Apis dorsata Fabr.
Rent sharing to control noncartel supply in the German cement market
Authors: Harrington Joseph E. , Hüschelrath Kai , Laitenberger Ulrich
Published: November 2017

A challenge for many cartels is avoiding a destabilizing increase in noncartel supply in response to having raised price. In the case of the German cement cartel that operated over 1991–2002, the primary source of noncartel supply was imports from Eastern European cement manufacturers. Testimonies in a private enforcement case have claimed that the cartel sought to control imports by sharing rents with intermediaries in order to discourage them from sourcing foreign supply. Specifically, cartel members would allow an intermediary to issue the invoice for a transaction and charge a fee even though the output went directly from the cartel member's plant to the customer. We investigate this claim by first developing a theory of collusive pricing that takes account of the option of bribing intermediaries. The theory predicts that the cement cartel members are more likely to share rents with an intermediary when the nearest Eastern European plant is closer and there is more Eastern European capacity outside of the control of the cartel. Estimating a logit model that predicts when a cartel member sells through an intermediary, the empirical analysis supports both predictions.
Increasing temperature decreases the predatory effect of the intertidal shannyLipophrys pholison an amphipod prey
Authors: South J. , Welsh D. , Anton A. , Sigwart J. D. , Dick J. T. A.
Published: November 2017

Interactions betweenLipophrys pholisand its amphipod preyEchinogammarus marinuswere used to investigate the effect of changing water temperatures, comparing current and predicted mean summer temperatures. Contrary to expectations, predator attack rates significantly decreased with increasing temperature. Handling times were significantly longer at 19° C than at 17 and 15° C and the maximum feeding estimate was significantly lower at 19° C than at 17° C. Functional‐response type changed from a destabilizing type II to the more stabilizing type III with a temperature increase to 19° C. This suggests that a temperature increase can mediate refuge for prey at low densities. Predatory pressure by teleosts may be dampened by a large increase in temperature (here from 15 to 19° C), but a short‐term and smaller temperature increase (to 17° C) may increase destabilizing resource consumption due to high maximum feeding rates; this has implications for the stability of important intertidal ecosystems during warming events.
Improving ‐Omics‐Based Research and Precision Health in Minority Populations: Recommendations for Nurse Scientists
Authors: Taylor Jacquelyn Y. , Barcelona de Mendoza Veronica
Published: November 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the role of nurse scientists in ‐omics‐based research and to promote discussion around the conduct of ‐omics‐based nursing research in minority communities. Nurses are advocates, educators, practitioners, scientists, and researchers, and are crucial to the design and successful implementation of ‐omics studies, particularly including minority communities. The contribution of nursing in this area of research is crucial to reducing health disparities.

Methods

In this article, challenges in the conduct of ‐omics‐based research in minority communities are discussed, and recommendations for improving diversity among nurse scientists, study participants, and utilization of training and continuing education programs in ‐omics are provided.

Findings and Conclusions

Many opportunities exist for nurses to increase their knowledge in ‐omics and to continue to build the ranks of nurse scientists as leaders in ‐omics‐based research. In order to work successfully with communities of color, nurse scientists must advocate for participation in the Precision Medicine Initiative, improve representation of nurse faculty of color, and increase utilization of training programs in ‐omics and lead such initiatives.

Clinical Relevance

All nursing care has the potential to be affected by the era of ‐omics and precision health. By taking an inclusive approach to diversity in nursing and ‐omics research, nurses will be well placed to be leaders in reducing health disparities through research, practice, and education.
Does Parenthood Change Implicit Gender‐Role Stereotypes and Behaviors?
Authors: Endendijk Joyce J. , Derks Belle , Mesman Judi
Published: November 2017

This study examined whether parenthood changes gender‐role behavior and implicit gender‐role stereotypes as assessed with an Implicit Association Test in Dutch parents. In a cross‐sectional sample, parents were found to have more traditional gender‐role stereotypes than nonparents with a wish to have a child and nonparents without the wish to have a child. This suggests that gender‐role stereotypes increase after the transition into parenthood. In a longitudinal sample, parents were followed for 4 years after the first birthday of their youngest child. The authors found that implicit gender‐role stereotypes and behavior became increasingly traditional over time in most parents, except for the following two groups: (a) Fathers with highly traditional gender‐role stereotypes did not show change over time and (b) older, highly educated mothers who worked relatively many hours outside the home and who had an egalitarian task division at home, remained egalitarian in their gender‐role stereotypes over time.
Pharmacokinetic assessment of the monepantel plus oxfendazole combined administration in dairy cows
Authors: Ballent M. , Viviani P. , Imperiale F. , Dominguez P. , Halwachs S. , Mahnke H. , Honscha W. , Lanusse C. , Virkel G. , Lifschitz A.
Published: November 2017

Monepantel (MNP) is a novel anthelmintic compound launched into the veterinary pharmaceutical market. MNP is not licenced for use in dairy animals due to the prolonged elimination of its metabolite monepantel sulphone (MNPSO2) into milk. The goal of this study was to evaluate the presence of potential in vivo drug‐drug interactions affecting the pattern of milk excretion after the coadministration of the anthelmintics MNP and oxfendazole (OFZ) to lactating dairy cows. The concentrations of both parent drugs and their metabolites were measured in plasma and milk samples by HPLC. MNPSO2 was the main metabolite recovered from plasma and milk after oral administration of MNP. A high distribution of MNPSO2 into milk was observed. The milk‐to‐plasma ratio (M/P ratio) for this metabolite was equal to 6.75. Conversely, the M/P ratio of OFZ was 1.26. Plasma concentration profiles of MNP and MNPSO2 were not modified in the presence of OFZ. The pattern of MNPSO2 excretion into milk was also unchanged in animals receiving MNP plus OFZ. The percentage of the total administered dose recovered from milk was 0.09 ± 0.04% (MNP) and 2.79 ± 1.54% (MNPSO2) after the administration of MNP alone and 0.06 ± 0.04% (MNP) and 2.34 ± 1.38% (MNPSO2) after the combined treatment. The presence of MNP did not alter the plasma and milk disposition kinetics of OFZ. The concentrations of the metabolite fenbendazole sulphone tended to be slightly higher in the coadministered group. Although from a pharmacodynamic point of view the coadministration of MNP and OFZ may be a useful tool, the presence of OFZ did not modify the in vivo pharmacokinetic behaviour of MNP and therefore did not result in reduced milk concentrations of MNPSO2.
A retrotransposon in an HKT1 family sodium transporter causes variation of leaf Na+ exclusion and salt tolerance in maize
Authors: Zhang Ming , Cao Yibo , Wang Zhiping , Wang Zhi‐qiang , Shi Junpeng , Liang Xiaoyan , Song Weibin , Chen Qijun , Lai Jinsheng , Jiang Caifu
Published: November 2017

Soil salinity is one of several major abiotic stresses that constrain maize productivity worldwide. An improved understanding of salt‐tolerance mechanisms will thus enhance the breeding of salt‐tolerant maize and boost productivity. Previous studies have indicated that the maintenance of leaf Na+ concentration is essential for maize salt tolerance, and the difference in leaf Na+ exclusion has previously been associated with variation in salt tolerance between maize varieties.

Here, we report the identification and functional characterization of a maize salt‐tolerance quantitative trait locus (QTL), Zea mays Na+ Content1 (ZmNC1), which encodes an HKT‐type transporter (designated as ZmHKT1).

We show that a natural ZmHKT1 loss‐of‐function allele containing a retrotransposon insertion confers increased accumulation of Na+ in leaves, and salt hypersensitivity. We next show that ZmHKT1 encodes a plasma membrane‐localized Na+‐selective transporter, and is preferentially expressed in root stele (including the parenchyma cells surrounding the xylem vessels). We also show that loss of ZmHKT1 function increases xylem sap Na+ concentration and causes increased root‐to‐shoot Na+ delivery, indicating that ZmHKT1 promotes leaf Na+ exclusion and salt tolerance by withdrawing Na+ from the xylem sap.

We conclude that ZmHKT1 is a major salt‐tolerance QTL and identifies an important new gene target in breeding for improved maize salt tolerance.
Combined transcriptome and translatome analyses reveal a role for tryptophan‐dependent auxin biosynthesis in the control of DOG1‐dependent seed dormancy
Authors: Bai Bing , Novák Ondřej , Ljung Karin , Hanson Johannes , Bentsink Leónie
Published: November 2017

The importance of translational regulation during Arabidopsis seed germination has been shown previously. Here the role of transcriptional and translational regulation during seed imbibition of the very dormant DELAY OF GERMINATION 1 (DOG1) near‐isogenic line was investigated.

Polysome profiling was performed on dormant and after‐ripened seeds imbibed for 6 and 24 h in water and in the transcription inhibitor cordycepin. Transcriptome and translatome changes were investigated.

Ribosomal profiles of after‐ripened seeds imbibed in cordycepin mimic those of dormant seeds. The polysome occupancy of mRNA species is not affected by germination inhibition, either as a result of seed dormancy or as a result of cordycepin treatment, indicating the importance of the regulation of transcript abundance.

The expression of auxin metabolism genes is discriminative during the imbibition of after‐ripened and dormant seeds, which is confirmed by altered concentrations of indole‐3‐acetic acid conjugates and precursors.
Folate status in women of reproductive age as basis of neural tube defect risk assessment
Authors: Bailey Lynn B. , Hausman Dorothy B.
Published: November 2017

Reliable folate status data for women of reproductive age (WRA) to assess global risk for neural tube defects (NTDs) are needed. We focus on a recent recommendation by the World Health Organization that a specific “optimal” red blood cell (RBC) folate concentration be used as the sole indicator of NTD risk within a population and discuss how to best apply this guidance to reach the goal of assessing NTD risk globally. We also emphasize the importance of using the microbiologic assay (MBA) as the most reliable assay for obtaining comparable results for RBC folate concentration across time and countries, the need for harmonization of the MBA through use of consistent key reagents and procedures within laboratories, and the requirement to apply assay‐matched cutoffs for folate deficiency and insufficiency. To estimate NTD risk globally, the ideal scenario would be to have country‐specific population‐based surveys of RBC folate in WRA determined utilizing a harmonized MBA, as was done in recent studies in Guatemala and Belize. We conclude with guidance on next steps to best navigate the road map toward the goal of generating reliable folate status data on which to assess NTD risk in WRA in low‐ and middle‐income countries.
Pharmacokinetics and safety of paclitaxel delivery into porcine airway walls by a new endobronchial drug delivery catheter
Authors: Tsukada Hisashi , Entcheva‐Dimitrov Plamena , Ernst Armin , Rafeq Samaan , Keating John H. , Seward Kirk P. , Yarmus Lonny
Published: November 2017

Background and objective

Intratumoral administration of chemotherapeutic agents is a treatment modality that has proven efficacious in reducing the recurrence of tumours and increases specificity of treatment while minimizing systemic side effects. Direct intratumoral injection of malignant airway obstruction has potential therapeutic benefits but tissue drug concentrations and side‐effect profiles are poorly understood.

Methods

Bronchial wall injection of generic paclitaxel (PTX) (102 injections of 0.05, 0.5, 1.5 or 2.5 mg/mL in 10 healthy pigs), saline (14 injections in 2 healthy pigs) or Abraxane (ABX) (24 injections of 0.5 mg/mL in 4 healthy pigs) was performed with a microneedle infusion catheter. Local histopathology, plasma and tissue PTX concentrations were evaluated at 7, 20 or 28 days post‐injection.

Results

Injection of generic PTX directly into the bronchial wall at doses up to 1.5 mg/mL only caused minimal tissue injury. Dose‐limiting tissue reaction was observed at 2.5 mg/mL. Plasma PTX was detectable for up to 5 days but not at 28 days, with area under the curve (AUC)(0‐5d) 20‐ to 50‐fold lower than the AUC(0‐∞) of 6300 ng h/mL for the approved intravenous dose. At 7 and 28 days post‐injection, bronchial PTX tissue concentrations were above a 10‐nmol/L cancer therapeutic level. PTX was not found in peripheral tissues. Similar results were observed between ABX and generic PTX.

Conclusion

Results of these studies confirm the administration of PTX directly into the bronchial wall is safe and feasible. PTX was detectable in plasma for <7 days but tissue concentrations remained therapeutic throughout the follow‐up period.