bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cataract after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation in childhood
Authors: Teär Fahnehjelm Kristina , Törnquist Alba Lucia , Olsson Monica , Bäckström Ingrid , Andersson Grönlund Marita , Winiarski Jacek
Published: September 2015

Aim

The aim of this study was to study long‐term visual outcome and cataract development in children and adolescents after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) in childhood.

Methods

Best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), refraction and lens status were examined in a prospective study of 139 children and adolescents.

Results

In total, 139 patients (58 female), median age 6.6 years at HSCT (range 0.4–17.5 years), were followed up for a median of 8.0 years (1–19.4 years). Median BCVA in the better eye was 1.0 decimal. Altogether 19 of 131 patients developed cataract requiring surgery, while 46 developed less prominent lens opacities and 66 had clear lenses at time of latest follow‐up. Patients conditioned with total body irradiation had a higher risk of developing lens opacities or cataract (p < 0.0001) as did patients with malignant disease, irrespective of irradiation treatment (p < 0.0001). Cumulative analysis showed that 50% of all patients had developed lens opacities/cataract after 10.2 years. Patients who ultimately needed cataract surgery developed cataract earlier than others (p = 0.006).

Conclusion

Lens opacities or cataract were more common in children or adolescents with malignant disease and after conditioning with irradiation. Regular ophthalmological follow‐up is important after HSCT for early intervention to avoid amblyopia.
Analytical specificity and sensitivity of the novel dual‐target GeneProof Neisseria gonorrhoeae PCR kit for detection of N. gonorrhoeae
Authors: Golparian Daniel , Hellmark Bengt , Unemo Magnus
Published: September 2015

Detection of Neisseria gonorrhoeae relies increasingly on nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs). The specificity of many gonococcal NAATs has been suboptimal and supplementary testing remains recommended in Europe and several additional countries. The novel dual‐target GeneProof Neisseria gonorrhoeae PCR kit, targeting porA pseudogene and 16S rRNA gene, showed a high specificity and sensitivity when isolates of non‐gonococcal Neisseria and related species (n = 144), and gonococci (n = 104) were tested. However, rare gonococcal porA mutants were only detected in the 16S rRNA gene target and two non‐gonococcal isolates showed a low‐level cross‐reactivity in the 16S rRNA gene target. The detection limit for both targets was 1.5 copies per reaction.
Understanding AmeriCorps Service: Perspectives from Psychological Theory and Research on Volunteerism
Authors: Maki Alexander , Dwyer Patrick C. , Snyder Mark
Published: September 2015

Although national service programs such as AmeriCorps share many characteristics with volunteerism (such as sustained, prosocial action aimed at community improvement), little research has examined how theory and research relevant to volunteer behavior might help understand such service programs. We used psychological theory from the volunteerism literature to test hypotheses about how the constructs of altruistic personality, role identity, and service motivations relate to AmeriCorps satisfaction, intentions, and behavior. In a longitudinal study of 188 AmeriCorps members, personality, identity, and motivation were all associated with important service experiences and outcomes. Specifically, whereas overall motivation was related to both satisfaction and intentions, altruistic personality and AmeriCorps identity were only related to intentions. Additionally, distinct service motivations were related to specific service experiences and outcomes. Finally, AmeriCorps members who felt that their motivations were satisfied during service tended to more frequently engage in additional voluntary service‐related behaviors. We discuss implications of these findings for understanding AmeriCorps service, and for potentially improving public policy initiatives concerning AmeriCorps.
Consequences of Domestic Violence against Women: Some Reflections from Rural Bangladesh
Authors: Khan Anisur R.
Published: September 2015

The aim of this study was to explore the consequences of domestic violence against rural Bangladeshi women. Drawing on in‐depth qualitative phenomenological interviews with 39 female victims of domestic violence from 8 rural settings of the Netrokona and Mymensingh districts, it was found that domestic violence not only causes serious consequences to the overall health and wellbeing of victims, it also causes negative impacts to their children and family members. For victims, consequences were physical, sexual, reproductive, psychological, and economic. For the children of the victims, consequences were mostly behavioral and psychological, while for family members of the victims, consequences were mainly economic and psychological. This study has significant academic implications because it could trace the consequences of domestic violence in a three dimensional manner. Based on empirical findings, this study proposes policy recommendations, such as campaigning against domestic violence and the proper implementation of laws related to domestic violence.
Genetically Modified Organisms and the U.S. Retail Food Labeling Controversy: Consumer Perceptions, Regulation, and Public Policy
Authors: Hemphill Thomas A. , Banerjee Syagnik
Published: September 2015

In this article, we address the public issue of mandatory Genetically Modified Organism (GMO) retail food labeling in the U.S., first by reviewing the policy arguments both in support and against labeling food containing GMOs; second, by describing the existing U.S. federal regulatory system pertaining to GMO labeling, and why it does not presently require labeling of food containing GMOs; third, by reviewing and interpreting the results of studies of American consumer attitudes toward mandatory GMO retail food labeling; fourth, by evaluating, through the utilization of issue life cycle analysis in the nonmarket environment, where the issue of GMO retail food labeling stands in the national public policy process; fifth, summarizing the state of scientific evidence addressing the safety of GMO foods and the existing regulatory and public policy environment for this issue; and sixth, offering legislative and litigation strategies for the mainstream food nonmarket strategy framework to formally assess the GMO industry to protect their interests and those of American consumers not concerned with GMO food ingredients, while offering a voluntary labeling strategy for firms responding to and recognizing the “rights” of American consumers who “choose” to purchase non‐GMO food products.
Efficient Estimation and Prediction for the Bayesian Binary Spatial Model with Flexible Link Functions
Authors: Roy Vivekananda , Evangelou Evangelos , Zhu Zhengyuan
Published: September 2015

Spatial generalized linear mixed models (SGLMMs) are popular models for spatial data with a non-Gaussian response. Binomial SGLMMs with logit or probit link functions are often used to model spatially dependent binomial random variables. It is known that for independent binomial data, the robit regression model provides a more robust (against extreme observations) alternative to the more popular logistic and probit models. In this article, we introduce a Bayesian spatial robit model for spatially dependent binomial data. Since constructing a meaningful prior on the link function parameter as well as the spatial correlation parameters in SGLMMs is difficult, we propose an empirical Bayes (EB) approach for the estimation of these parameters as well as for the prediction of the random effects. The EB methodology is implemented by efficient importance sampling methods based on Markov chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) algorithms. Our simulation study shows that the robit model is robust against model misspecification, and our EB method results in estimates with less bias than full Bayesian (FB) analysis. The methodology is applied to a Celastrus Orbiculatus data, and a Rhizoctonia root data. For the former, which is known to contain outlying observations, the robit model is shown to do better for predicting the spatial distribution of an invasive species. For the latter, our approach is doing as well as the classical models for predicting the disease severity for a root disease, as the probit link is shown to be appropriate.

Though this article is written for Binomial SGLMMs for brevity, the EB methodology is more general and can be applied to other types of SGLMMs. In the accompanying R package geoBayes, implementations for other SGLMMs such as Poisson and Gamma SGLMMs are provided.
User experience of a mobile speaking application with automatic speech recognition for EFL learning
Authors: Ahn Tae youn , Lee Sangmin‐Michelle
Published: September 2015

With the spread of mobile devices, mobile phones have enormous potential regarding their pedagogical use in language education. The goal of this study is to analyse user experience of a mobile‐based learning system that is enhanced by speech recognition technology for the improvement of EFL (English as a foreign language) learners' speaking proficiency. Speaking English 60 Junior, which is developed for middle‐school students in Korea, is equipped with automatic speech recognition (ASR) for students' self‐regulated speaking practice. Open‐ended survey questions were used to gain insight into users' reactions. The results showed that the students, overall, had positive attitudes towards the use of the application for learning to speak. They particularly expressed great interest in the speech recognition function because it immediately demonstrated the consequence of their speech input. The speech‐interactive activity, in which they interacted with a virtual character via ASR, also received positive comments. The findings highlight the potential use of mobile phones and ASR for learning to speak in the EFL context. Recommendations for future research are discussed based on the results of this study.
Transperineal template prostate‐mapping biopsies: an evaluation of different protocols in the detection of clinically significant prostate cancer
Authors: Valerio Massimo , Anele Chukwuemeka , Charman Susan C. , van der Meulen Jan , Freeman Alex , Jameson Charles , Singh Paras B. , Emberton Mark , Ahmed Hashim U.
Published: September 2015

Objectives

To determine whether modified transperineal template prostate‐mapping (TTPM) biopsy protocols, altering the template or the biopsy density, have sensitivity and negative predictive value (NPV) equal to full 5‐mm TTPM.

Patients and Methods

Retrospective analysis of an institutional registry including treatment‐naïve men undergoing 5‐mm TTPM biopsy analysed in a 20‐zone fashion. The value of three modified strategies was assessed by comparing the information provided by selected zones against full 5‐mm TTPM. Strategy 1, did not consider the findings of anterior areas; strategies 2 and 3 simulated a reduced biopsy density by excluding intervening zones. A bootstrapping technique was used to calculate reliable estimates of sensitivity and NPV of these three strategies for the detection of clinically significant disease (maximum cancer core length ≥4 mm and/or Gleason score ≥3 + 4).

Results

In all, 391 men with a median (interquartile range, IQR) age of 62 (58–67) years were included. The median (IQR) PSA level and PSA density were 6.9 (4.8–10) ng/mL and 0.17 (IQR 0.12–0.25) ng/mL/mL, respectively. A median (IQR) of 6 (2–9) cores out of 48 (33–63) taken per man were positive for prostate cancer. No cancer was detected in 67 men (17%), whilst low‐, intermediate‐ and high‐risk disease was identified in 78 (20%), 80 (21%), and 166 (42%), respectively. Strategy 1, 2 and 3 had sensitivities of 78% [95% confidence interval (CI) 73–84%], 85% (95% CI 80–90%) and 84% (95% CI 79–89%), respectively. The NPVs of the three strategies were 73% (95% CI 67–80%), 80% (95% CI 74–86%) and 79% (95% CI 72–84%), respectively.

Conclusion

Altering the template or decreasing sampling density has a substantial negative impact on the ability of TTPM biopsy to exclude clinically significant disease. This should be considered when modified TTPM biopsy strategies are used to select men for tissue‐preserving approaches, and when modified TTPM are used to validate new diagnostic tests.
Active surveillance in localized prostate cancer: comparison of incidental tumours (T1a/b) and tumours diagnosed by core needle biopsy (T1c/T2a): results from the HAROW study
Authors: Herden Jan , Wille Sebastian , Weissbach Lothar
Published: September 2015

Objective

To conduct a comparative prospective analysis of patients with incidental T1a/T1b prostate cancer (IPCa) and those with prostate cancer (PCa) diagnosed by core needle biopsy, treated by active surveillance (AS), with regard to inclusion criteria, progression and switch to deferred treatment.

Patients and Methods

The HAROW study is an observational outcomes research study on the management of localized PCa. Treating urologists reported clinical variables and information on therapy and clinical course of disease at 6‐month intervals. With respect to therapy, only recommendations were made; the final decision on the therapeutic method rested with the treating physician.

Results

Out of 2 957 patients included in the HAROW study, 447 chose AS. The median follow‐up was 28.3 months. T1a, T1b, T1c and T2a disease were diagnosed in 81, 18, 292 and 56 patients, respectively. Patients in the IPCa group had lower prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) levels (4.2 vs 6.1 ng/mL) and more comorbidities than those diagnosed by core needle biospy. The IPCa group also had fewer re‐biopsies (25.3 vs 43.2%) and fewer changes to invasive treatment (12.1 vs 25.9%). No significant differences were found with respect to the criteria for discontinuation, subsequent therapies and histological findings after radical prostatectomy.

Conclusion

Urologists are highly inclined to use AS as a therapeutic option in IPCa. More patients with IPCa than those diagnosed after core needle biopsy continued on AS, which was also associated with the indication for a re‐biopsy being less stringently observed.
Prostate cancer risk prediction using the novel versions of the European Randomised Study for Screening of Prostate Cancer (ERSPC) and Prostate Cancer Prevention Trial (PCPT) risk calculators: independent validation and comparison in a contemporary European cohort
Authors: Poyet Cédric , Nieboer Daan , Bhindi Bimal , Kulkarni Girish S. , Wiederkehr Caroline , Wettstein Marian S. , Largo Remo , Wild Peter , Sulser Tullio , Hermanns Thomas
Published: September 2015

Objectives

To externally validate and compare the two novel versions of the European Randomised Study for Screening of Prostate Cancer (ERSPC)‐prostate cancer risk calculator (RC) and Prostate Cancer Prevention Trial (PCPT)‐RC.

Patients and Methods

All men who underwent a transrectal prostate biopsy in a European tertiary care centre between 2004 and 2012 were retrospectively identified. The probability of detecting prostate cancer and significant cancer (Gleason score ≥7) was calculated for each man using the novel versions of the ERSPC‐RC (DRE‐based version 3/4) and the PCPT‐RC (version 2.0) and compared with biopsy results. Calibration and discrimination were assessed using the calibration slope method and the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC), respectively. Additionally, decision curve analyses were performed.

Results

Of 1 996 men, 483 (24%) were diagnosed with prostate cancer and 226 (11%) with significant prostate cancer. Calibration of the two RCs was comparable, although the PCPT‐RC was slightly superior in the higher risk prediction range for any and significant prostate cancer. Discrimination of the ERSPC‐ and PCPT‐RC was comparable for any prostate cancer (AUCs 0.65 vs 0.66), while the ERSPC‐RC was somewhat better for significant prostate cancer (AUCs 0.73 vs 0.70). Decision curve analyses revealed a comparable net benefit for any prostate cancer and a slightly greater net benefit for significant prostate cancer using the ERSPC‐RC.

Conclusions

In our independent external validation, both updated RCs showed less optimistic performance compared with their original reports, particularly for the prediction of any prostate cancer. Risk prediction of significant prostate cancer, which is important to avoid unnecessary biopsies and reduce over‐diagnosis and overtreatment, was better for both RCs and slightly superior using the ERSPC‐RC.
Metropolitan Change and Uneven Distribution of Urban Sub‐Centres in Mexico City, 1989–2009
Authors: AGUILAR ADRIAN G. , HERNANDEZ JOSEFINA
Published: September 2015

The spatial expression of urban centrality in big cities is generally associated with several urban nodes. The major purpose of this article is to identify the spatial pattern of urban sub‐centres in Mexico City during the period 1989–2009 and how changes in urban centrality have given way to a more polycentric urban structure. A double‐threshold method was used for comparing the polycentric structure of a single city over time examining the variables of number of jobs and tertiary employment density; this approach for identifying employment centres is proven in a megacity of a developing country.
Neuroprotective effects of multifaceted hybrid agents targeting MAO, cholinesterase, iron and β‐amyloid in ageing and Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Weinreb Orly , Amit Tamar , Bar‐Am Orit , Youdim Moussa B H
Published: September 2015

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is accepted nowadays as a complex neurodegenerative disorder with multifaceted cerebral pathologies, including extracellular deposition of amyloid β peptide‐containing plaques, intracellular neurofibrillary tangles, progressive loss of cholinergic neurons, metal dyshomeostasis, mitochondrial dysfunction, neuroinflammation, glutamate excitoxicity, oxidative stress and increased MAO enzyme activity. This may explain why it is currently widely accepted that a more effective therapy for AD would result from the use of multifunctional drugs, which may affect more than one brain target involved in the disease pathology. The current review will discuss the potential benefits of novel multimodal neuroprotective, brain permeable drugs, recently developed by Youdim and collaborators, as a valuable therapeutic approach for AD treatment. The pharmacological and neuroprotective properties of these multitarget‐directed ligands, which target MAO enzymes, the cholinergic system, iron accumulation and amyloid β peptide generation/aggregation are described, with a special emphasis on their potential therapeutic value for ageing and AD‐associated cognitive functions. This review is conceived as a tribute to the broad neuropharmacology work of Professor Moussa Youdim, Professor Emeritus in the Faculty of Medicine and Director of Eve Topf Center of Excellence in Technion‐Israel Institute of Technology, and Chief Scientific Officer of ABITAL Pharma Pipeline Ltd., at the occasion of his 75th birthday.

Linked Articles

This article is part of a themed section on Updating Neuropathology and Neuropharmacology of Monoaminergic Systems. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v173.13/issuetoc
Identification of novel Lck‐derived T helper epitope long peptides applicable for HLA‐A2+ cancer patients as cancer vaccine
Authors: Matsueda Satoko , Shichijo Shigeki , Nagata Sayaka , Seki Chieko , Yamada Akira , Noguchi Masanori , Itoh Kyogo
Published: September 2015

The present study attempted to identify T helper epitope long peptides capable of inducing cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTL) from Lck antigen (p56Lck), the src family tyrosine kinase, which is known to be aberrantly expressed in metastatic cancers cells, in order to develop a long peptide‐based cancer vaccine for HLA‐A2+ cancer patients. Based on the biding motif to the HLA‐DR and HLA‐A2 alleles, 94 peptides were prepared from the Lck antigen. These peptides were screened for their reactivity to immunoglobulin G (IgG) from plasma of cancer patients, followed by testing of their ability to induce both CD4+ and CD8+ T lymphocytes showing not only peptide‐specific IFN‐γ production but cytotoxicity against HLA‐A2+ cancer cells from peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) of HLA‐A2+ cancer patients. Among 94 peptides tested, the three T helper epitope long peptides and their inner CTL epitope short peptides with HLA‐A2 binding motifs were frequently recognized by IgG of cancer patients, and efficiently induced both CD4+ IFN‐γ+ and CD8+ IFN‐γ+ T lymphocytes. Patients' PBMC stimulated with these long peptides showed cytotoxicity against HLA‐A2+ Lck+ cancer cells in HLA‐class I and HLA‐class II dependent manners. These three peptides might be useful for long peptide‐based vaccines for HLA‐A2+cancer patients with Lck+ tumor cells.
Shyness‐Sensitivity and Social, School, and Psychological Adjustment in Urban Chinese Children: A Four‐Wave Longitudinal Study
Authors: Yang Fan , Chen Xinyin , Wang Li
Published: September 2015

This study examined reciprocal contributions between shyness‐sensitivity and social, school, and psychological adjustment in urban Chinese children. Longitudinal data were collected once a year from Grade 3 to Grade 6 (ages 9–12 years) for 1,171 children from multiple sources. Shyness‐sensitivity positively contributed to social, school, and psychological difficulties over time, with the most consistent effects on peer preference and loneliness. Social and school adjustment negatively contributed to the development of shyness‐sensitivity. The initial levels of shyness‐sensitivity and social and school adjustment moderated the growth of each other, mainly as a resource‐potentiating factor. The results indicate the significance of shyness‐sensitivity for adjustment and the role of adjustment in the development of shyness‐sensitivity in today's urban Chinese society.
The ageing human B cell repertoire: a failure of selection?
Authors: Dunn-Walters D K
Published: September 2015

B cells undergo a number of different developmental stages, from initial formation of their B cell receptor (BCR) genes to differentiation into antibody-secreting plasma cells. Because the BCR is vital in these differentiation steps, autoreactive and exogenous antigen binding to the BCR exert critical selection pressures to shape the B cell repertoire. Older people are more prone to infectious disease, less able to respond well to vaccination and more likely to have autoreactive antibodies. Here we review evidence of changes in B cell repertoires in older people, which may be a reflection of age-related changes in B cell selection processes.
The diagnosis of nonclassic congenital adrenal hyperplasia due to 21‐hydroxylase deficiency, based on serum basal or post‐ACTH stimulation 17‐hydroxyprogesterone, can lead to false‐positive diagnosis
Authors: Ambroziak Urszula , Kępczyńska‐Nyk Anna , Kuryłowicz Alina , Małunowicz Ewa Maria , Wójcicka Anna , Miśkiewicz Piotr , Macech Magdalena
Published: September 2015

Objective

As nonclassic congenital adrenal hyperplasia (NCCAH) needs to be taken into account in women with hyperandrogenism, we aimed to assess whether the recommended level of poststimulated 17OHP ≥30 nmol/l confirms NCCAH.

Patients and methods

Forty, consecutive women with biochemical and/or clinical hyperandrogenism (aged 25·4, 18–38) suspected of having NCCAH were recruited to the study. In patients with 17OHP level between 5·1 and 29·9 nmol/l an ACTH stimulation test was performed. In patients with basal or poststimulated 17OHP ≥30 nmol/l, twenty‐four‐hour urinary steroid profile (USP) analysis was performed and CYP21A2 mutation was assessed. In selected patients with poststimulated 17OHP <30 nmol/l USP was also performed.

Results

The group was divided into two subgroups with basal or poststimulated 17OHP ≥30 nmol/l (group A) and with poststimulated 17OHP <30 nmol/l (group B). Among 40 patients, basal or poststimulated 17OHP ≥30 nmol/l was found in 21, but NCCAH was confirmed by USP followed by genetic testing only in 5 (24%). Four patients were diagnosed as heterozygotes, and in twelve, no CYP21A2 mutation was detected.

Conclusion

The diagnosis of NCCAH based only on serum 17OHP measurements (basal or poststimulated) may lead to false‐positive diagnosis when performed by immunoassay with a cut‐off value of ≥30 nmol/l. The definitive diagnosis can be established based on USP and/or genetic testing.
Water‐drinking test in primary angle‐closure suspect before and after laser peripheral iridotomy
Authors: Waisbourd Michael , Savant Shravan V , Sun Yi , Martinez Patricia , Myers Jonathan S
Published: September 2015

Background

This study aimed to investigate whether performing a laser peripheral iridotomy in primary angle‐closure suspects had an effect on the intraocular pressure response during the water‐drinking test.

Design

Prospective study in a hospital setting.

Participants

Primary angle‐closure suspects scheduled for a laser peripheral iridotomy.

Methods

Primary angle‐closure suspects were evaluated before the laser peripheral iridotomy and 2 weeks after. On each visit, subjects underwent the water‐drinking test. Intraocular pressure was measured every 15 min within a 1‐h period.

Main Outcome Measures

Intraocular pressure fluctuations during the water drinking test.

Results

Twenty patients were enrolled. The mean age was 58.1 years (±10.2 SD), predominantly female (n = 14, 70%). Average intraocular pressure range (maximum‐minimum) during the water‐drinking test increased significantly from 2.6 ± 1.1 mmHg before the laser peripheral iridotomy to 3.5 ± 1.5 mmHg after (P = 0.04). The mean difference between peak and last intraocular pressure measurements increased after the laser peripheral iridotomy was performed, from 2.5 mmHg (±1.27 SD) to 3.3 mmHg (±1.66 SD), (P = 0.057). There was no change in mean peak intraocular pressure (maximum‐baseline) before and after the laser peripheral iridotomy (P = 0.87).

Conclusions

Primary angle‐closure suspects who underwent the water‐drinking test had a slightly more pronounced recovery of intraocular pressure after the laser peripheral iridotomy was performed, which may be attributed to increase in the area of exposed trabecular meshwork following treatment. Differences in intraocular pressure curves before and after laser peripheral iridotomy were minimal, and therefore, the water‐drinking test had limited value as a provocative test in this patient population. © 2015 Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Ophthalmologists
Blood clot formed on rough titanium surface induces early cell recruitment
Authors: Yang Jin , Zhou Yinghong , Wei Fei , Xiao Yin
Published: September 2015

Objectives

The initial contact of blood with biomaterials and subsequent recruitment of inflammatory and marrow‐derived stromal cells are among the first phases of bone regeneration. The aim of this study was to investigate the migratory potential of mesenchymal stem cells by treating rat bone marrow mesenchymal stromal cells (rBMSCs) with the extract of the blood clot formed on implant surfaces.

Materials and methods

Cell attachment and morphology on the blood clot was observed using scanning electron microscopy. The cell metabolism was reflected by the 3‐(4, 5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2, 5‐diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay, and the cell proliferation was assessed by the CyQuant® assay based on DNA content. Cytokine profiles in the incubation medium derived from different blood–titanium surface were detected using the rat cytokine antibody array. Scratch wound assay and transwell migration assay were performed to determine the effect of blood–implant conditioned medium on cell migration and movement.

Results

No significant difference was found in cell attachment and morphology on the blood clot formed on smooth and rough surfaces. Increased rBMSC proliferation was induced by the blood clot on rough surfaces. Comparison of cytokine secretion showed a significant increase of CINC‐2α, IL‐2, L‐selectin, MCP‐1, prolactin AA and VEGF levels in the elution of blood clot formed on rough titanium surfaces, which led to significantly improved mobility and wound healing ability of rBMSCs.

Conclusions

Rough titanium surfaces could influence the blood clot formation and properties, which will induce cell recruitment and stimulate wound healing.
Real‐World Dosing Patterns of Atomoxetine in Adults with Attention‐Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
Authors: Kabul Samaneh , Alatorre Carlos , Montejano Leslie B. , Farr Amanda M. , Clemow David B.
Published: September 2015

Aims

The aim was to investigate the dosing patterns of atomoxetine monotherapy in adult patients with attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in a retrospective analysis.

Methods

Adult (≥18 years) patients with ADHD newly initiated on atomoxetine with ≥1 outpatient pharmacy claim for atomoxetine between January 2006 and December 2011 were selected from the Truven Health MarketScan® Commercial database. After a 30‐day titration period, dosing patterns of atomoxetine monotherapy were analyzed in the 12 months following initiation. In addition, patient demographic and clinical characteristics were compared to identify characteristics associated with suboptimal versus recommended dosing.

Results

Of the 12,412 adult patients with ADHD newly initiated on atomoxetine, 4548 (36.6%) were suboptimally dosed, whereas 3323 (26.7%) were treated at recommended dose. Overall, study patients were treated at a mean (standard deviation [SD]) dose of 68.5 (44.9) mg/day. The suboptimal dosing cohort included significantly more females (54% vs. 44%, P < 0.001) and had fewer patients with pre‐index use of other ADHD medications (17% vs. 20%, P < 0.001) compared with the recommended dosing cohort.

Conclusions

Adult patients with ADHD receiving atomoxetine therapy in a real‐world setting are often dosed suboptimally. Increasing the awareness on optimal dosing strategy among clinicians and patients is warranted to maximize the therapeutic benefits of atomoxetine among adult patients with ADHD.
Ultraviolet Radiation on the Skin: A Painful Experience?
Authors: Lopes Douglas M. , McMahon Stephen B.
Published: September 2015

Excessive exposure of skin to ultraviolet radiation (UVR) has dramatic clinical effects in humans, and it is a significant public health concern. Discomfort and sensory changes caused by skin sunburn are the main common features experienced by many of us, a phenomena triggered by the combination of long and short wavelengths radiation (UVA and UVB, respectively). Although the biological processes underlying UVR exposure are not fully understood, in the last few years many studies have made significant progress in characterizing sunburn at the cellular and molecular levels, making use of both humans and laboratory animal models. Here we review and reason that UVR can be used as an excellent model of sensitization and inflammation for pain research. UVR, particularly UVB, produces a controllable and sterile inflammation that causes a robust dose‐dependent hypersensitivity with minimal confounding effects. Importantly, we show that UVR animal models precisely recapitulate the sensory, cellular, and molecular changes observed in human skin, giving it great confidence as a translational model. Furthermore, in this article, we give an overview of the pharmacology underlying UVB inflammation, the latest advances in the field, and potential new targets for inflammatory pain.
Toward a new understanding of the links between poverty and illegal wildlife hunting
Authors: Duffy Rosaleen , St John Freya A. V. , Büscher Bram , Brockington Dan
Published: September 2015

Conservation organizations have increasingly raised concerns about escalating rates of illegal hunting and trade in wildlife. Previous studies have concluded that people hunt illegally because they are financially poor or lack alternative livelihood strategies. However, there has been little attempt to develop a richer understanding of the motivations behind contemporary illegal wildlife hunting. As a first step, we reviewed the academic and policy literatures on poaching and illegal wildlife use and considered the meanings of poverty and the relative importance of structure and individual agency. We placed motivations for illegal wildlife hunting within the context of the complex history of how wildlife laws were initially designed and enforced to indicate how hunting practices by specific communities were criminalized. We also considered the nature of poverty and the reasons for economic deprivation in particular communities to indicate how particular understandings of poverty as material deprivation ultimately shape approaches to illegal wildlife hunting. We found there is a need for a much better understanding of what poverty is and what motivates people to hunt illegally.
Impact of three‐dimensional endoanal ultrasound on the outcome of anal fistula surgery: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Ding J.‐H. , Bi L.‐X. , Zhao K. , Feng Y.‐Y. , Zhu J. , Zhang B. , Yin S.‐H. , Zhao Y.‐J.
Published: September 2015

Aim

The aim of the study was to evaluate the impact of three‐dimensional endoanal ultrasound (3D‐EAUS) on postoperative outcome in patients with anal fistula.

Method

This prospective study compared clinical and functional outcomes of patients with and without preoperative 3D‐EAUS examination 1 year after anal fistula surgery. Patients were prospectively followed and evaluated by a standardized protocol including physical examination, the Wexner Incontinence Score (WIS) and anorectal manometry, at baseline and 1 year after surgery.

Results

A total of 196 patients were enrolled. There were no significant differences in demographic and operative parameters, except for operation time, between the two groups. At 1 year follow‐up, the overall recurrence rates were 8.8% (9/102) in the 3D‐EAUS group and 13.8% (13/94) in the examination under anaesthesia (EUA) group. In the subgroup of patients with complex fistulae, the recurrence rate was numerically lower in the 3D‐EAUS group (12.8% vs 22.5%; P = 0.26). The WIS in the EUA group significantly worsened (0.35 ± 0.94 vs 1.07 ± 1.59; P = 0.003) with a decreased the number of fully continent patients (82.5% vs 55%; P = 0.008) while neither the WIS nor the proportion of fully continent patients changed in the 3D‐EAUS group. Fewer patients in the 3D‐EAUS group developed incontinence postoperatively (6.7% vs 33.3%; P = 0.012) and they had better maximum resting pressure and maximum squeeze pressure than the EUA group.

Conclusions

Preoperative use of 3D‐EAUS had a favourable impact on the outcome of surgical treatment for anal fistulae, especially in those with complex anal fistula. It should be routinely used in the clinical setting.
The Appeal to Expert Opinion: Quantitative Support for a Bayesian Network Approach
Authors: Harris Adam J. L. , Hahn Ulrike , Madsen Jens K. , Hsu Anne S.
Published: September 2015

The appeal to expert opinion is an argument form that uses the verdict of an expert to support a position or hypothesis. A previous scheme‐based treatment of the argument form is formalized within a Bayesian network that is able to capture the critical aspects of the argument form, including the central considerations of the expert's expertise and trustworthiness. We propose this as an appropriate normative framework for the argument form, enabling the development and testing of quantitative predictions as to how people evaluate this argument, suggesting that such an approach might be beneficial to argumentation research generally. We subsequently present two experiments as an example of the potential for future research in this vein, demonstrating that participants' quantitative ratings of the convincingness of a proposition that has been supported with an appeal to expert opinion were broadly consistent with the predictions of the Bayesian model.
Assessing Competencies in a Master of Science in Clinical Research Program: The Comprehensive Competency Review
Authors: Robinson Georgeanna F.W.B. , Moore Charity G. , McTigue Kathleen M. , Rubio Doris M. , Kapoor Wishwa N.
Published: September 2015

Competencies in Master of Science Clinical Research programs are becoming increasingly common. However, students and programs can only benefit fully from competency‐based education if students’ competence is formally assessed. Prior to a summative assessment, students must have at least one formative, formal assessment to be sure they are developing competence appropriate for their stage of training. This paper describes the comprehensive competency review (CCR), a milestone for MS students in Clinical Research at the University of Pittsburgh's Institute for Clinical Research Education. The CCR involves metacognitive reflection of the student's learning as a whole, written evidence of each competency, a narrative explaining the choice of evidence for demonstrating competencies, and a meeting in which two faculty members review the evidence and solicit further oral evidence of competence. CCRs allow for individualized feedback at the midpoint in degree programs, providing students with confidence that they will have the means and strategies to develop competence in all areas by the summative assessment of competence at their thesis defense. CCRs have also provided programmatic insight on the need for curricular revisions and additions. These benefits outweigh the time cost on the part of students and faculty in the CCR process.
Mind the gap: What is the difference between alcohol treatment need and access for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians?
Authors: Brett Jonathan , Lee K. S. Kylie , Gray Dennis , Wilson Scott , Freeburn Bradley , Harrison Kristie , Conigrave Katherine
Published: September 2015

Background

Alcohol‐related harms cause great concern to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander (Indigenous) communities in Australia as well as challenges to policy makers. Treatment of alcohol use disorders forms one component of an effective public health response. While alcohol dependence typically behaves as a chronic relapsing condition, treatment has been shown to be both effective and cost‐effective in improving outcomes. Provision of alcohol treatment services should be based on accurate assessment of treatment need.

Aims

In this paper, we examine the likely extent of the gap between voluntary alcohol treatment need and accessibility. We also suggest potential approaches to improve the ability to assess unmet need.

Discussion

Existing methods of assessing the treatment needs of Indigenous Australians are limited by incomplete and inaccurate survey data and an over‐reliance on existing service use data. In addition to a shortage of services, cultural and logistical barriers may hamper access to alcohol treatment for Indigenous Australians. There is also a lack of services funded to a level that allows them to cope with clients with complex medical and physical comorbidity, and a lack of services for women, families and young people. A lack of voluntary treatment services also raises serious ethical concerns, given the expansion of mandatory treatment programmes and incarceration of Indigenous Australians for continued drinking. The use of modelling approaches, linkage of administrative data sets and strategies to improve data collection are discussed as possible methods to better assess treatment need. [Brett J, Lee K, Gray D, Wilson S, Freeburn B, Harrison K, Conigrave K. Mind the gap: what is the difference between alcohol treatment need and access for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians? Drug Alcohol Rev 2016;35:456–460]
Assessing the place of neurobiological explanations in accounts of a family member's addiction
Authors: Meurk Carla , Fraser Doug , Weier Megan , Lucke Jayne , Carter Adrian , Hall Wayne
Published: September 2015

Introduction and Aims

The brain disease model of addiction posits that addiction is a persistent form of neural dysfunction produced by chronic drug use, which makes it difficult for addicted persons to become and remain abstinent. As part of an anticipatory policy analysis of addiction neuroscience, we engaged family members of addicted individuals to assess their views on the place and utility of brain‐based accounts of addiction.

Design and Methods

Fifteen in‐depth qualitative interviews were conducted and used to develop a quantitative online survey that was completed by 55 family members. This article reports responses on what addiction is and how it is caused and responses to explanations of the brain disease model of addiction.

Results

Participants gave multiple reasons for their family members developing an addiction and there was no single dominant belief about the best way to describe addiction. Participants emphasised the importance of both scientific and non‐scientific perspectives on addiction by providing multifactorial explanations of their family members' addictions. Most family members acknowledged that repeated drug use can cause changes to the brain, but they varied in their reactions to labelling addiction a ‘brain disease’. They believed that understanding addiction, and how it is caused, could help them support their addicted relative.

Discussion and Conclusions

Participants' beliefs about neurobiological information and the brain disease model of addiction appeared to be driven by empathetic, utilitarian considerations rather than rationalist ones. We discuss the importance of providing information about the nature and causes of addiction. [Meurk C, Fraser D, Weier M, Lucke J, Carter A, Hall W. Assessing the place of neurobiological explanations in accounts of a family member's addiction. Drug Alcohol Rev 2016;35:461–469]
‘The lesser of two evils’: A qualitative study of staff and client experiences and beliefs about addressing tobacco in addiction treatment settings
Authors: Wilson Amanda J. , Bonevski Billie , Dunlop Adrian , Shakeshaft Anthony , Tzelepis Flora , Walsberger Scott , Farrell Michael , Kelly Peter J. , Guillaumier Ashleigh
Published: September 2015

Introduction and Aims

The aim of this study was to explore beliefs about tobacco dependence treatment from the perspective of staff and clients in addiction treatment settings.

Design and Methods

A qualitative study was conducted between August and November 2013 using grounded theory methodology. Participants were recruited from four government‐funded drug and alcohol services in a regional centre of New South Wales, Australia. Treatment centre staff (n = 10) were interviewed using a semistructured interview guide and two focus groups (n = 5 and n = 6) were held with clients of the same treatment centres.

Results

Both clients and staff wish to do more about tobacco use in addiction treatment services, but a number of barriers were identified. Staff barriers included lack of time, tobacco‐permissive organisational culture, lack of enforcement of smoke‐free policies, beliefs that tobacco is not a treatment priority for clients and that clients need to smoke as a coping strategy, and perceptions that treatment was either ineffective or not used by clients. Clients reported smoking as a habit and for enjoyment or stress relief, seeing staff smoking, nicotine replacement therapy unaffordability and perceptions that nicotine replacement therapy may be addictive, and inability to relate to telephone cessation counselling as barriers to quitting smoking.

Discussion and Conclusions

Client and staff perceptions and attitudes about the treatment of tobacco, particularly those relating telephone support and nicotine replacement therapy, provided information, which will inform the design of smoking cessation programs for addiction treatment populations. [Wilson AJ, Bonevski B., Dunlop A., Shakeshaft A, Tzelepis F., Walsberger S., Farrell M., Kelly PJ, Guillaumier A. ‘The lesser of two evils’: A qualitative study of staff and client experiences and beliefs about addressing tobacco in addiction treatment settings. Drug Alcohol Rev 2015]
Facilitating police recording of the alcohol‐related characteristics of assault incidents: A stepped wedge implementation trial
Authors: Wiggers John H. , Hacker Andrew , Kingsland Melanie , Lecathelinais Christophe , Tindall Jennifer , Bowman Jennifer A. , Wolfenden Luke
Published: September 2015

Introduction and Aims

Enforcement of liquor licensing laws is limited by inadequate police information systems. This study aimed to: (i) determine the effectiveness of an intervention in facilitating police recording of the alcohol consumption characteristics of people involved in assaults; and (ii) describe such characteristics by geographic area and setting of alcohol consumption.

Design and Methods

A stepped wedge trial was conducted across New South Wales, Australia. An intervention to facilitate police recording of alcohol consumption information for people involved in incidents was implemented. For people involved in an assault the proportion for which alcohol consumption information was recorded was assessed. The proportion of assaults that were alcohol related, the proportions of people that consumed alcohol prior to the assault, were intoxicated, and had consumed alcohol in various settings, are described.

Results

Post‐intervention, alcohol consumption information was recorded for 85–100% of people involved in an assault incident. The proportion of incidents recorded as alcohol‐related increased significantly (26–44.5%; P < 0.0001). The proportion of assaults classified as alcohol related was significantly greater in regional/rural areas (50–47%) than in metropolitan areas (38%). More people in metropolitan areas (54%) consumed alcohol on licensed premises prior to an assault than in regional/rural areas (39–42%), with approximately 70% of persons intoxicated regardless of setting of alcohol consumption. Twenty per cent of premises accounted for 60% of assaults linked to licensed premises.

Discussion and Conclusions

The intervention was effective in enhancing the recording of alcohol‐related information for assault incidents. Such information could enhance targeted policing of liquor licensing laws. [Wiggers JH, Hacker A, Kingsland M, Lecathelinais C, Tindall J, Bowman JA, Wolfenden L. Facilitating police recording of the alcohol‐related characteristics of assault incidents: A stepped wedge implementation trial. Drug Alcohol Rev 2015;00:000–000]
Leveraging Supply Chain Integration through Planning Comprehensiveness: An Organizational Information Processing Theory Perspective
Authors: Srinivasan Ravi , Swink Morgan
Published: September 2015

This study extends prior research on supply chain planning and integration by examining the underlying capabilities by which firms exploit the information they gain from integration activities. We use organizational information processing theory (OIPT) to develop hypotheses that identify the comprehensiveness of an organization's supply chain planning capabilities as an important mediator in the relationship between its supply chain integration activities and its operational performance. Further, our interpretation of OIPT suggests that an organization's usage of technology‐enabled supply chain management systems (SCMS) moderates these effects. Using survey data from 445 global firms, we estimate the corresponding moderated‐mediation structural model. The results indicate that usage of SCMS enables organizations to better utilize the information they gain from external integration efforts (relationships with customers and suppliers), thus improving the comprehensiveness of their supply chain planning capabilities. In contrast, the use of SCMS appears to be a partial substitute for internal integration as a driver of planning comprehensiveness. Most importantly, the results suggest that planning comprehensiveness is a significant generative means by which integration and technology investments produce superior operational performance. These findings provide a richer and more theoretically grounded explanation of relationships between supply chain integration, supply chain planning, and operational performance.