bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Brief Report: European Mitochondrial Haplogroups Impact on Liver Fibrosis Progression Among HCV and HIV/HCV-Coinfected Patients From Northwest Spain
Authors: Tabernilla Andres , Rego-Pérez Ignacio , Grandal Marta , Pernas Berta , Pértega Sonia , Delgado Manuel , Mariño Ana , Álvarez Hortensia , Mena Alvaro , Rodríguez-Osorio Iria , Pedreira Jose Domingo , Blanco Francisco Javier , Poveda Eva 
Published: June 2016

Abstract:
The impact of mitochondrial DNA haplogroups on the outcome of liver fibrosis was evaluated in 362 hepatitis C virus infection (HCV)-monoinfected and HIV/HCV-coinfected patients (147 and 215, respectively) in clinical follow-up at 2 reference hospitals in the Northwest of Spain. The mitochondrial DNA haplogroup H was the most prevalent (50.3%) in this population. The cluster Others and V were recognized as risk factors for the development of liver fibrosis while haplogroup H and HCV genotype 4 confer a lower risk. This information might be useful for prioritization of HCV treatment, especially for F0-F1 patients for whom there is no urgency for treatment.
County-Level Vulnerability Assessment for Rapid Dissemination of HIV or HCV Infections Among Persons Who Inject Drugs, United States
Authors: Van Handel Michelle M. , Rose Charles E. , Hallisey Elaine J. , Kolling Jessica L. , Zibbell Jon E. , Lewis Brian , Bohm Michele K. , Jones Christopher M. , Flanagan Barry E. , Siddiqi Azfar-E-Alam , Iqbal Kashif , Dent Andrew L. , Mermin Jonathan H. , McCray Eugene , Ward John W. , Brooks John T. 
Published: June 2016

Objective:
A recent HIV outbreak in a rural network of persons who inject drugs (PWID) underscored the intersection of the expanding epidemics of opioid abuse, unsterile injection drug use (IDU), and associated increases in hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections. We sought to identify US communities potentially vulnerable to rapid spread of HIV, if introduced, and new or continuing high rates of HCV infections among PWID.

Design:
We conducted a multistep analysis to identify indicator variables highly associated with IDU. We then used these indicator values to calculate vulnerability scores for each county to identify which were most vulnerable.

Methods:
We used confirmed cases of acute HCV infection reported to the National Notifiable Disease Surveillance System, 2012–2013, as a proxy outcome for IDU, and 15 county-level indicators available nationally in Poisson regression models to identify indicators associated with higher county acute HCV infection rates. Using these indicators, we calculated composite index scores to rank each county's vulnerability.

Results:
A parsimonious set of 6 indicators were associated with acute HCV infection rates (proxy for IDU): drug-overdose deaths, prescription opioid sales, per capita income, white, non-Hispanic race/ethnicity, unemployment, and buprenorphine prescribing potential by waiver. Based on these indicators, we identified 220 counties in 26 states within the 95th percentile of most vulnerable.

Conclusions:
Our analysis highlights US counties potentially vulnerable to HIV and HCV infections among PWID in the context of the national opioid epidemic. State and local health departments will need to further explore vulnerability and target interventions to prevent transmission.
Electronic surveillance and using administrative data to identify healthcare associated infections
Authors: Gastmeier Petra , Behnke Michael 
Published: June 2016

Purpose of review
Traditional surveillance of healthcare associated infections (HCAI) is time consuming and error-prone. We have analysed literature of the past year to look at new developments in this field. It is divided into three parts: new algorithms for electronic surveillance, the use of administrative data for surveillance of HCAI, and the definition of new endpoints of surveillance, in accordance with an automatic surveillance approach.

Recent findings
Most studies investigating electronic surveillance of HCAI have concentrated on bloodstream infection or surgical site infection. However, the lack of important parameters in hospital databases can lead to misleading results. The accuracy of administrative coding data was poor at identifying HCAI. New endpoints should be defined for automatic detection, with the most crucial step being to win clinicians’ acceptance.

Summary
Electronic surveillance with conventional endpoints is a successful method when hospital information systems implemented key changes and enhancements. One requirement is the access to systems for hospital administration and clinical databases.
Although the primary source of data for HCAI surveillance is not administrative coding data, these are important components of a hospital-wide programme of automated surveillance. The implementation of new endpoints for surveillance is an approach which needs to be discussed further.
Prevention of common healthcare-associated infections in humanitarian hospitals
Authors: Murphy Richard A. , Chua Arlene C. 
Published: June 2016

Purpose of review
Humanitarian medical organizations focus on vulnerable patients with increased risk for healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) and are obligated to minimize them in inpatient departments (IPDs). However, in doing so humanitarian groups face considerable obstacles. This report will focus on approaches to reducing common HAIs that the authors have found to be helpful in humanitarian settings.

Recent findings
HAIs are common in humanitarian contexts but there are few interventions or guidelines adapted for use in poor and conflict-affected settings to improve prevention and guide surveillance. Based on existing recommendations and studies, it appears prudent that all humanitarian IPDs introduce a basic infection prevention infrastructure, assure high adherence to hand hygiene with wide accessibility to alcohol-based hand rub, and develop pragmatic surveillance based on clinically evident nosocomial infection. Although microbiology remains out of reach for most humanitarian hospitals, rapid tests offer the possibility of improving the diagnosis of HAIs in humanitarian hospitals in the decade ahead.

Summary
There is a dearth of new studies that can direct efforts to prevent HAIs in IPDs in poor and conflict-affected areas and there is a need for practical, field-adapted guidelines from professional societies, and international bodies to guide infection prevention efforts in humanitarian environments.
Age-Related Delay in Visual and Auditory Evoked Responses is Mediated by White and Gray matter Differences
Authors: Price D. , Tyler L. K. , Neto Henriques R. , Campbell K. , Williams N. , Treder M. , Taylor J. R. ,   CamCAN, Henson R. N. A. 
Published: June 2016

AbstractSlowing is a common feature of ageing, yet a direct relationship between neural slowing and brain atrophy is yet to be established in healthy humans. We combine magnetoencephalographic (MEG) measures of neural processing speed with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) measures of white- and gray-matter in a large (N=617, 18-88yrs), population-derived cohort (www.cam-can.org) to investigate the relationship between age-related structural differences and VEF and AEF delay across two different tasks. Using a novel technique, we show that VEFs exhibit a constant delay, whereas AEPs exhibit delay that accumulates over time. Visual delay is mediated by white-matter microstructure in the optic radiation, presumably reflecting increased transmission time, whereas auditory delay is mediated by gray-matter differences in auditory cortex, presumably reflecting less efficient local processing. Our results demonstrate that age has dissociable effects on neural processing speed, and that these effects relate to different types of brain atrophy.
Helping the e-mail checking addicts
Authors: Beal Brian 
Published: June 2016

Purpose
This paper aims to review the demands employees face when communicating through information and communication technologies (ICTs), and relevant interventions are suggested to provide a set of evidence-based recommendations to help protect work-life balance.

Design/methodology/approach
The paper reviews the following demands associated with ICTs: response expectations, constant availability, increased workload and poor communication. The authors draw upon empirical research to highlight outcomes and intervention strategies, before discussing implications for research and practice.

Findings
The paper, which reviews four demands employees face when communicating through ICT (response expectations, constant availability, increased workload and poor communication), finds that there are diverse outcomes associated with each. The outcomes were not inherently negative, as evidence suggests that positive performance outcomes can arise from response expectations and constant availability, although there may be health and wellbeing costs.

Originality/value
Four interrelated demands that employees can face when communicating through technology are integrated and possible interventions are analyzed.
Passing the baton
Authors: Drury Pauline 
Published: June 2016

Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to consider the factors affecting the success of succession planning in family businesses.

Design/methodology/approach
The study reports on a panel discussion in which the former chairman of the William Jackson Food Group describes the processes put in place to manage succession at this family firm and his own experience of handing over to his successor.

Findings
Once upon a time, saying that you were going into the family business marked the end of any career discussion. Now it’s just the beginning – interest in family firms has never been greater. Succession planning is a subject guaranteed to generate questions – everyone wants to know how to get it right. Fortunately, it’s an area where some are happy to share their experience.

Research limitations/implications
The paper highlights the need for more longitudinal research on family firms.

Practical implications
This paper provides a practical guide to structures and processes that can facilitate succession planning in family firms.

Social implications
It draws attention to the emotional and psychological impact of succession on the retiring individual and the need to create life structures to replace former business involvement.

Originality/value
This paper aims to present a frank discussion of the approach to succession planning taken by one family business and the broader research questions that it raises.
Managing talent development effectively
Authors: Cole Graham 
Published: June 2016

Purpose
This paper aims to review the latest management developments across the globe and pinpoint practical implications from cutting-edge research and case studies.

Design/methodology/approach
This briefing is prepared by an independent writer who adds their own impartial comments and places the articles in context.

Findings
It has almost become a cliché to state that the workforce is any company’s most importance asset. Organizations accordingly recognize the value added by highly skilled employees. Talent is perceived as being in short supply. This means that firms battle to entice individuals that will best help secure a competitive edge. Talent is a valuable resource that is widely considered unique and difficult to replicate. That much is unquestionable. Identification and development of talented employees is therefore often high on the agenda of businesses targeting sustained growth and prosperity.

Practical implications
The paper provides strategic insights and practical thinking that have influenced some of the world's leading organizations.

Originality/value
The briefing saves busy executives and researchers hours of reading time by selecting only the very best, most pertinent, information and presenting it in a condensed and easy-to-digest format.
Improving health in the workplace
Authors: Cole Graham 
Published: June 2016

Purpose
This paper aims to review the latest management developments across the globe and pinpoint practical implications from cutting-edge research and case studies.

Design/methodology/approach
This briefing is prepared by an independent writer who adds their own impartial comments and places the articles in context.

Findings
An old adage informs us that prevention is better than cure. These are wise words indeed. And such sentiments obviously apply within a wide variety of contexts, with working environments being no exception. Recent decades have witnessed growing importance attached to health in the workplace. Given the prevailing compensation culture in many societies, this development is not surprising. Firms naturally want to protect themselves as much as possible from the threat of health-related lawsuits. Complying with necessary regulations and safeguarding the welfare of employees should thus be high on the agenda. It clearly makes sense for organizations to adopt a proactive approach to these matters.

Practical implications
The paper provides strategic insights and practical thinking that have influenced some of the world's leading organizations.

Originality/value
The briefing saves busy executives and researchers hours of reading time by selecting only the very best, most pertinent, information and presenting it in a condensed and easy-to-digest format.
Labour exploitation
Authors: Chelliah John 
Published: June 2016

Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to highlight the risks faced by employers as a result of subjecting vulnerable employees to exploitative business practices that are akin to slavery.

Design/methodology/approach
The study considers examples of exploitative approaches that employers have recently adopted.

Findings
The paper reveals that employers should be aware of the serious legal consequences including imprisonment that could result from slavery like business practices.

Research limitations/implications
Guides managers in preventing claims of slavery.

Practical implications
The paper serves to guide managers in preventing claims of slavery or exploitation.

Social implications
It helps to draw attention to the risks associated with exploitative labour practices at the workplace.

Originality/value
This paper aims to raise the issue of organizational awareness and preparedness to prevent predatory or exploitative employment practices.
Prognostic factors in patients after definitive chemoradiation using involved‐field radiotherapy for esophageal cancer in a phase II study
Authors: Yamashita Hideomi , Takenaka Ryousuke , Okuma Kae , Ootomo Kuni , Nakagawa Keiichi 
Published: June 2016

BackgroundA prospective study was performed on the use of chemoradiotherapy (CRT) for esophageal cancer (EC) with involved‐field radiation therapy (IFRT), based on 18‐fluorodeoxyglucose positron‐emission tomography. Prognostic factors for overall survival (OS) were analyzed.MethodsEligible patients included 63 adults with newly diagnosed, untreated, inoperable stage I–IV EC with lymph node metastases. Patients received 80 mg/m2 nedaplatin per day on day 1, 800 mg/m2 5‐fluorouracil on days 1–4 intravenously repeated every 28 days for two to four cycles, and combined IFRT. Irradiation was applied only to the primary tumor and positive lymph nodes.ResultsThree‐year progression‐free survival and OS rates were 44.9% and 47.5%, respectively. The median survival time was 31.5 months. In univariate analyses for OS, Karnofsy Performance Scale <90% (P = 0.027), initial stage (P = 0.0087), T stage (P = 0.066), N stage (P = 0.000086), M stage of M1 (P = 0.0042), dysphagia score (P = 0.00017), tumor marker squamous cell carcinoma antigen >1.5 ng/mL (P = 0.0054), gross tumor volume (GTV) > 60 cc (P = 0.00011), and relative dose intensity (RDI) of chemotherapy ≤50% (P = 0.063) were found to be associated with significantly or marginally worse OS. In multivariate analyses for OS, GTV ≥ 60 cc (P = 0.00040), RDI < 50% (P = 0.00034), and cN2‐3 (P = 0.0020) were associated with significantly worse OS.Conclusion
GTV, RDI and N grading, were associated with OS after definitive CRT using IFRT for EC.
Laparoscopic caudal approach for a small hepatocellular carcinoma located in the paracaval portion of a cirrhotic liver
Authors: Iwashita Yukio , Uchida Hiroki , Endo Yuichi , Yada Kazuhiro , Mori Tetsu , Ohta Masayuki , Inomata Masafumi 
Published: June 2016

AbstractResection of a tumor located in the paracaval portion of the liver, without sacrificing other parts of the liver, is surgically challenging. Here, we describe using a laparoscopic caudal approach for a small hepatocellular carcinoma located in the paracaval portion. It is the first case using the laparoscopic caudal approach to be reported in the literature. Compared with the conventional approaches, this procedure can minimize both surgical invasiveness and the volume of liver parenchyma to be resected. In addition, the laparoscopic view is suitable for this procedure. The laparoscopic caudal approach can be a safe procedure with minimal invasiveness for a small paracaval tumor, particularly in patients with liver cirrhosis.
Is Corporate Social Responsibility in Japanese Firms at the Theoretically Derived Achievable Level? An Analysis of CSR Inefficiency Using a Stochastic Frontier Model
Authors: Nakamura Eri 
Published: June 2016

AbstractThe purposes of this study are to investigate whether current corporate social responsibility (CSR) is at the theoretically derived achievable level (hereinafter referred to simply as achievable level), to introduce “CSR inefficiency” as the difference between actual and achievable levels of CSR, and to specify its determinants. We established that the achievable level of CSR activity is determined by a range of keiretsu group, government, sector, and resource factors, and choosing specific activities can affect the priority levels of social contributions. CSR inefficiency is affected by its own factors such as internal management, which are different from those of CSR activity. Our study suggests the importance of the differences between the achievable levels of CSR among firms. For example, firms in machinery, electrical equipment, public utilities, and service industries have greater inefficiency in environmental CSR than the other industries. Conversely, the achievable levels of construction and petroleum and gum industries for environmental CSR are higher. Service firms can achieve higher level of environmental CSR, although their emissions and wastes are not as large as those of manufacturing firms in general. In retail industries, the achievable level of environmental CSR is lowest among all industries, while those for labor issues and social contribution are as high as those of other industries. Public utilities have large CSR inefficiency compared with other industries, while construction, steel and nonferrous metals have small CSR inefficiency.
Old World Leishmaniasis: an ancient disease with nonstandardized microscopic and clinical classifications
Authors: Zgheib Elias , Habib Robert , Moukarbel Roger , Khalifeh Ibrahim 
Published: June 2016

BackgroundMicroscopic and clinical classifications of cutaneous leishmania have been set in the 1980s. Since then, they have been used invariably. Lebanon, a nonendemic country, is suffering from a leishmaniasis epidemic because of the massive population influx from endemic Syria.DesignPatients diagnosed and speciated with leishmania (n = 169) using molecular and microscopic analysis were studied. General demographic data, microscopic data [Ridley's pattern (RP), microscopic pattern, Parasitic Index (PI)] and clinical stage were documented. Clinical score was scored as: 1: inflammatory; 2: proliferative/reorganization; 3: healed phases. The three patterns were studied in comparison to the lesion age and PI.ResultsAt low PI, the clinical score and microscopic pattern showed healing scores (scores 3 and 4, respectively). In contrast, RP showed variable distribution at low PI. The same pattern is noted when correlating the different patterns with high PI. In comparison to lesion age, none of the three patterns showed the predicted linear correlation with lesion progression.ConclusionIn the studied population, the previously adopted classifications did not correlate with the disease progression. Such findings may raise the possibility of evolving disease. The proposed clinical and microscopic patterns showed better correlation with the disease progression.
Non‐local line method for notched elements with use of effective length calculated in an elasto‐plastic condition
Authors: Krzyżak D. , Robak G. , Łagoda T. 
Published: June 2016

AbstractThe paper presents a non‐local line method used to the fatigue life calculation of notched elements. The presented method is based on the concept of an effective length which determines the size of the equivalent fatigue zone. Effective values of normal stress calculated in the critical plane with a weight function were applied when determining the equivalent fatigue zone. Simulation studies were performed for two types of steel and two types of loading. Five different series of tests and simulations were used. Experimental studies were carried out for 40 HM‐T and EA4T steels. These materials are used in railway industry, including the manufacturing of coupling bars. The notched test specimens contained notches with a tip radius of 0.2, 0.5, 0.8 and 1 mm. Stress calculations were performed using the finite element method by adopting cyclic material properties described by the model of a multi‐linear hardening. Non‐local calculations were performed in a defined critical plane for normal stress distribution and a weight function. As a result, the function of variation of the effective length depending on the loading level and geometry of the notch has been determined.
Do maize models capture the impacts of heat and drought stresses on yield? Using algorithm ensembles to identify successful approaches
Authors: Jin Zhenong , Zhuang Qianlai , Tan Zeli , Dukes Jeffrey S. , Zheng Bangyou , Melillo Jerry M. 
Published: June 2016

AbstractStresses from heat and drought are expected to increasingly suppress crop yields, but the degree to which current models can represent these effects is uncertain. Here we evaluate the algorithms that determine impacts of heat and drought stress on maize in 16 major maize models by incorporating these algorithms into a standard model, the Agricultural Production Systems sIMulator (APSIM), and running an ensemble of simulations. Although both daily mean temperature and daylight temperature are common choice of forcing heat stress algorithms, current parameterizations in most models favor the use of daylight temperature even though the algorithm was designed for daily mean temperature. Different drought algorithms (i.e., a function of soil water content, of soil water supply to demand ratio, and of actual to potential transpiration ratio) simulated considerably different patterns of water shortage over the growing season, but nonetheless predicted similar decreases in annual yield. Using the selected combination of algorithms, our simulations show that maize yield reduction was more sensitive to drought stress than to heat stress for the US Midwest since the 1980s, and this pattern will continue under future scenarios; the influence of excessive heat will become increasingly prominent by the late 21st century. Our review of algorithms in 16 crop models suggests that the impacts of heat and drought stress on plant yield can be best described by crop models that: (i) incorporate event‐based descriptions of heat and drought stress, (ii) consider the effects of nighttime warming, and (iii) coordinate the interactions among multiple stresses. Our study identifies the proficiency with which different model formulations capture the impacts of heat and drought stress on maize biomass and yield production. The framework presented here can be applied to other modeled processes and used to improve yield predictions of other crops with a wide variety of crop models.