bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Impact of imipenem and amikacin pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic parameters on microbiological outcome of Gram-negative bacilli ventilator-associated pneumonia
Authors: Pajot O. , Burdet C. , Couffignal C. , Massias L. , Armand-Lefevre L. , Foucrier A. , Da Silva D. , Lasocki S. , Laouénan C. , Mentec H. , Mentré F. , Wolff M. 
Published: January 2015

AbstractObjectivesDespite recent advances, antibiotic therapy of ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) in ICU patients is still challenging. We assessed the impact of imipenem and amikacin pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic parameters on microbiological outcome in these patients.Patients and methodsPatients with Gram-negative bacilli (GNB) VAP were prospectively included. Blood samples for pharmacokinetic analysis were collected after empirical administration of a combination of imipenem three times daily and one single dose of amikacin. MICs were estimated for each GNB obtained from respiratory samples. Microbiological success was defined as a ≥103 cfu/mL decrease in bacterial count in quantitative cultures between baseline and the third day of treatment.ResultsThirty-nine patients [median (min–max) age = 60 years (28–84) and median SAPS2 at inclusion = 40 (19–73)] were included. Median MICs of imipenem and amikacin were 0.25 mg/L (0.094–16) and 2 mg/L (1–32), respectively. Median times over MIC and over 5× MIC for imipenem were 100% (8–100) and 74% (3–100), respectively. The median C1/MIC ratio for amikacin was 23 (1–76); 34 patients (87%) achieved a C1/MIC ≥10. Microbiological success occurred in 29 patients (74%). No imipenem pharmacodynamic parameter was significantly associated with the microbiological success. For amikacin, C1/MIC was significantly higher in the microbiological success group: 26 (1–76) versus 11 (3–26) (P = 0.004).ConclusionsIn ICU patients with VAP, classic imipenem pharmacodynamic targets are easily reached with usual dosing regimens. In this context, for amikacin, a higher C1/MIC ratio than previously described might be necessary.
Evaluation of three commercial assays for rapid detection of genes encoding clinically relevant carbapenemases in cultured bacteria
Authors: Findlay Jacqueline , Hopkins Katie L. , Meunier Daniele , Woodford Neil 
Published: January 2015

Abstract

Objectives
To assess the performance of three commercial molecular assays for detecting major families of carbapenemases in pure bacterial isolates.

Methods
A panel of 450 isolates with previously defined carbapenem resistance mechanisms was tested using the Check-Direct CPE kit, the eazyplex® SuperBug complete A kit and the Xpert® Carba-R kit. Isolates included 438 Enterobacteriaceae and 12 Pseudomonas spp. comprising 100 isolates each with KPC, NDM, VIM or OXA-48-like enzymes, two isolates producing both an NDM and an OXA-48-like enzyme, 24 IMP producers and 24 isolates without a known carbapenemase gene. Discordant results (commercial versus in-house) were investigated using in-house PCR and amplicons were sequenced to define the carbapenemase allele present.

Results
All three commercial assays detected all isolates with KPC, VIM, NDM and classic OXA-48 carbapenemases (no false-negatives). Isolates producing the OXA-181 variant (n = 18) were not detected by the Xpert® Carba-R kit or the eazyplex® SuperBug complete A kit, but were subsequently detected with modified versions of these kits. Only the Xpert® Carba-R kit could detect IMP carbapenemases, although this was limited to the IMP-1 subgroup. Invalid or false-positive results were either not observed when following the manufacturer's protocols or were eliminated by making simple interpretative adjustments to allow use with bacterial isolates rather than clinical samples.

Conclusions
Commercial assays offer a reliable means of detecting bacteria with clinically significant carbapenemases. Coverage of some assays required expansion to maximize the sensitivity for OXA-48-like carbapenemases. Choice will ultimately depend on preferred gene coverage, intended throughput, cost and ability to fit into local workflows.
Integrated Transcriptomic and Metabolomic Characterization of the Low-Carbon Response Using an ndhR Mutant of Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803
Authors: Klähn Stephan , Orf Isabel , Schwarz Doreen , Matthiessen Jasper K.F. , Kopka Joachim , Hess Wolfgang R. , Hagemann Martin 
Published: January 2015

Abstract
The acquisition and assimilation of inorganic carbon (Ci) represents the largest flux of inorganic matter in photosynthetic organisms; hence, this process is tightly regulated. We examined the Ci-dependent transcriptional and metabolic regulation in wild-type Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803 compared with a mutant defective in the main transcriptional repressor for Ci acquisition genes, the NAD(P)H dehydrogenase transcriptional regulator NdhR. The analysis revealed that many protein-coding transcripts that are normally repressed in the presence of high CO2 (HC) concentrations were strongly expressed in ∆ndhR, whereas other messenger RNAs were strongly down-regulated in mutant cells, suggesting a potential activating role for NdhR. A conserved NdhR-binding motif was identified in the promoters of derepressed genes. Interestingly, the expression of some NdhR-regulated genes remained further inducible under low-CO2 conditions, indicating the involvement of additional NdhR-independent Ci-regulatory mechanisms. Intriguingly, we also observed that the abundance of 52 antisense RNAs and 34 potential noncoding RNAs was affected by Ci supply, although most of these molecules were not regulated through NdhR. Thus, antisense and noncoding RNAs could contribute to NdhR-independent carbon regulation. In contrast to the transcriptome, the metabolome in ∆ndhR cells was similar to that of wild-type cells under HC conditions. This observation and the delayed metabolic responses to the low-CO2 shift in ∆ndhR, specifically the lack of transient increases in the photorespiratory pathway intermediates 2-phosphoglycolate, glycolate, and glycine, suggest that the deregulation of gene expression in the ƊndhR mutant successfully preacclimates cyanobacterial cells to lowered Ci supply under HC conditions.
Developing an academic library website model, a designer’s checklist, and an evaluative instrument
Authors: Wijayaratne Anusha Lakmini , Singh Diljit 
Published: January 2015

Purpose– The purpose of this paper is to introduce a library website model. Further, the paper discusses a designer’s checklist and an evaluative instrument that were constructed based on the proposed model.Design/methodology/approach– The model was developed through a Delphi study that was participated by two panels of experts. The researcher communicated with the panel members via e-mail using two Delphi instruments designed out of two item pools that were developed based on the knowledge gained from surveying the literature, visiting the selected libraries and exploring the library websites. Then, a designer’s checklist and an evaluative instrument were derived from the proposed model through a series of brainstorming sessions.Findings– The proposed model consisted of altogether 140 items (60 web content elements and 80 web design features). The designer’s checklist comprises all 140 items, and the evaluative instrument comprises 60 content elements and 57 design features.Research limitations/implications– This study has developed an academic library website model and derived two instruments based on the proposed model. Further studies are needed to customize, particularly, the web content pillar of this conceptual model, to meet the specific needs of different types of libraries including public libraries, special libraries, school libraries, etc.Practical implications– The designer’s checklist and the evaluative instrument derived from the proposed model are useful tools for library professionals in designing, re-designing, maintaining and evaluating their library websites. The librarians may use these tools for both institutional and research purposes.Originality/value– The model and the two instruments proposed by this study are unique in focus, origin, content and presentation.
It takes three to dialogue: considering a triadic intergroup encounter
Authors: Weinberg-Kurnik Galia , Nadan Yochay , Ben Ari Adital 
Published: January 2015

Purpose– This paper aims to present findings from a research project that examined the contribution of a third partner in an encounter among three groups: Palestinian/Arab–Israelis, Jewish–Israelis and Germans. In recent decades, planned intergroup encounters have played an important role in conflict management, reconciliation and peace-building. Nearly all models use a dyadic structure, based on an encounter between two rival groups mediated by a third party.Design/methodology/approach– The study was based on a year-long academic collaboration and two encounters between social work students from Israel and Germany (15 each). The central issues addressed were personal and collective identity; personal, familial and collective memory; and multicultural social work practice that were present in the encounter with the “other”. Participants were heterogeneous in terms of gender, ethnic background and religion, inviting exploration of personal and professional meanings. Using 15 in-depth interviews with Israeli participants, we identified and analyzed the personal and interpersonal processes occurring during these encounters.Findings– Jewish and Arab participants positioned themselvesvis-à-visthe German group in two main configurations (singular identities and multiple multifaceted identities), which alternated according to the contexts to which the larger group was exposed, and in congruence with the developmental stage of group work.Originality/value– The findings suggest that a “third” partner can significantly contribute to an intergroup encounter by reflecting on the relationship created between rival parties to a dyad, thereby helping them deconstruct their binary “us-versus-them” relationship.
Handling conflict at work
Authors: Bélanger Jocelyn J , Pierro Antonio , Barbieri Barbara , De Carlo Nicola A , Falco Alessandra , Kruglanski Arie W 
Published: January 2015

Purpose– This research aims to explore the notion of fit between subordinates’ need for cognitive closure and supervisors’ power tactics on organizational conflict management.Design/methodology/approach– Two-hundred and ninety employees drawn from six different Italian organizations were recruited for the purpose of this study.Findings– Results indicated that high-need-for-closure subordinates utilized more constructive (solution-oriented) conflict management strategies when their supervisors relied on harsh power tactics, whereas low-need-for-closure subordinates were more inclined to use solution-oriented conflict management strategies when their supervisors relied on soft power tactics. Additionally, results indicated that, overall, supervisors’ use of harsh power tactics increased subordinates reliance on maladapted (control-oriented) conflict management strategies, but even more so for subordinates with low need for cognitive closure.Originality/value– This study highlights the importance of supervisor–subordinate fit to understand conflict management in organizational setting.
The effects of altruism and relationship conflict on organizational learning
Authors: Guinot Jacob , Chiva Ricardo , Mallén Fermín 
Published: January 2015

Purpose– This paper aims to, prompted by a recent paradigm shift in the organizational sciences, to explore some antecedents of organizational learning capability, focusing on altruism and relationship conflict.Design/methodology/approach– To test the hypotheses, the structural equation technique was applied to data from a survey of Spanish firms with recognized excellence in human resource management.Findings– The results of this research show that, in these firms, altruism facilitates learning capacity both directly and indirectly (through relationship conflict). Relationship conflict is posited as a mediating variable that explains how altruism improves organizational learning.Research limitations/implications– The limitations of this study include excessive heterogeneity of the sample size and industrial sector and the type of firm included in the sample. Due to the potential benefits that altruism seems to have for organizations, future research could continue to investigate the consequences of altruism in organizations.Practical implications– Altruism provides organizations with a value that can facilitate organizational learning capability not only directly, but also by reducing relationship conflict. Altruism may offer organizations a tool they can use to improve their success in dealing with the challenges of today’s uncertain and constantly changing economic environment.Originality/value– This study proposes a common altruistic approach that is far removed from traditional self-interested models in organizational literature. This study identifies altruism and relationship conflict as antecedents of organizational learning capability.
A review of factors which potentially influence decisions in adult safeguarding investigations
Authors: Trainor Patricia 
Published: January 2015

Purpose
– The purpose of this paper is to look at safeguarding documentation in relation to 50 adult safeguarding files for the period April 2010 to March 2011. This was followed up with semi-structured interviews with a small number of Designated Officers whose role it is to screen referrals and coordinate investigations. Findings from the research were used to redesign regional adult safeguarding documentation to ensure Designated Officers have access to the information necessary to assist them in reaching decisions. Designated and Investigating Officer training was also updated to reflect learning from the research thereby reducing the potential for variation in practice.

Design/methodology/approach
– A file tool was developed which examined the recorded information in safeguarding documentation contained within 50 service user files. The review tool looked at the personal characteristics of the vulnerable adult, the nature of the alleged abuse and the decisions/outcomes reached by staff acting as safeguarding Designated Officers. A semi-structured interview schedule asked Designated Offices to comment on the training and understanding of the process as well as the factors they believed were central to the decision making process. Their responses were compared to data obtained from the file review.

Findings
– A key finding in the research was that while factors such as type of abuse, the vulnerable adults’ consent to cooperate with proceedings, identity of the referrer, etc. did influence decisions taken there was a lack of clarity on the part of Designated Officers in relation to their roles and responsibilities and of the process to be followed.

Research limitations/implications
– The research was limited to one Health & Social Care Trust area and had a small sample size (n=50).

Practical implications
– The findings of the research led to a revamping of existing safeguarding documentation which had failed to keep pace with developments and was no longer fit for purpose. Adult safeguarding training courses within the Trust were redesigned to bring greater focus to the role and responsibilities of designated and Investigating Officers and the stages in the safeguarding process. Adult Safeguarding leads were established within programmes of care and professional support mechanisms put in place for staff engaged in this area of work.

Social implications
– Better trained and supported staff alongside more efficient safeguarding systems should lead to better outcomes in the protection of vulnerable people from abuse and harm.

Originality/value
– The research built on existing albeit limited research into what potentially influences staff involved in critical decision-making processes within adult safeguarding.
Learning lessons about self-neglect? An analysis of serious case reviews
Authors: Braye Suzy , Orr David , Preston-Shoot Michael 
Published: January 2015

Purpose
– The purpose of this paper is to report the findings from research into 40 serious case reviews (SCRs) involving adults who self-neglect.

Design/methodology/approach
– The study comprised analysis of 40 SCRs where self-neglect featured. The reviews were found through detailed searching of Local Safeguarding Adult Board (LSAB) web sites and through contacts with Board managers and independent chairs. A four layer analysis is presented of the characteristics of each case and SCR, of the recommendations and of the emerging themes. Learning for service improvement is presented thematically, focusing on the adult and their immediate context, the team around the adult, the organisations around the team and the Local Safeguarding Board around the organisations.

Findings
– There is no one typical presentation of self-neglect; cases vary in terms of age, household composition, lack of self-care, lack of care of one's environment and/or refusal to engage. Recommendations foreground LSABs, adult social care and unspecified agencies, and focus on staff support, procedures and the components of best practice and effective SCRs. Reports emphasise the importance of a person-centred approach, within the context of ongoing assessment of mental capacity and risk, with agencies sharing information and working closely together, supported by management and supervision, and practising within detailed procedural guidance.

Research limitations/implications
– There is no national database of SCRs commissioned by LSABs and currently there is no requirement to publish the outcomes of such inquiries. It may be that there are further SCRs, or other forms of inquiry, that have been commissioned by Boards but not publicised. This limits the learning that has been available for service improvement.

Practical implications
– The paper identifies practice, management and organisational issues that should be considered when working with adults who self-neglect. These cases are often complex and stressful for those involved. The thematic analysis adds to the evidence-base of how best to approach engagement with adults who self-neglect and to engage the multi-agency network in assessing and managing risk and mental capacity.

Originality/value
– The paper offers the first formal evaluation of SCRs that focus on adults who self-neglect. The analysis of the findings and the recommendations from the investigations into the 40 cases adds to the evidence-base for effective practice with adults who self-neglect.
Not reasonably practicable: are there now greater opportunities for abuse by a nearest relative?
Authors: Hewitt David 
Published: January 2015

Purpose
– The purpose of this paper is to explain a decision of the Court of Appeal about the duty an Approved Mental Health Professional (AMHP) will sometimes have to consult a patient's nearest relative, and to set that decision in the context of an earlier one.

Design/methodology/approach
– Each decision is examined in detail and one is compared with the other. Reference is made to the Mental Health Act 1983 Code of Practice.

Findings
– It will be harder for an AMHP to establish that consultation is not reasonably practicable, and it will be correspondingly easier, in some cases, for a nearest relative to obtain information about a patient or achieve proximity to her.

Originality/value
– This is thought to be the first time the two cases have been considered together or in their true context.
Does substance use predict contact with the criminal justice system for people with intellectual disabilities?
Authors: Chaplin Eddie , Partsenidis Ilias , Samuriwo Blessing , Underwood Lisa , McCarthy Jane 
Published: January 2015

Purpose
– The purpose of this paper is to examine how substances misuse impacts on exposure to the criminal justice system for people with intellectual disabilities (ID).

Design/methodology/approach
– An electronic case-register of mental health patients was used to examine the clinical records of 411 patients with ID. χ2 analysis was performed to test the association between variables and logistic regression to generate estimates for statistically significant association variables.

Findings
– Of 411 cases, 98 (23 per cent) of patient had a history of substance use, with affective disorders strongly associated with alcohol misuse χ2=4.135, df=1 (p<0.042), similarly statistically significant predictor for alcohol misuse OR: 1.7, 95 per cent CI (1.02-2.72) (p<0.043). Patients with a history of offending behaviour had three-folds higher risk to misuse drugs compared to those without a forensic conviction OR: 3.17, 95 per cent CI (1.35-7.44) (p<0.008). Those with a history of offending were more likely to have had a history of substance use.

Originality/value
– Substance use and its impact on offending by people with ID is still poorly understood. This paper adds new information to this under researched area.
Developing a government strategy to meet international standards of food safety across the hospitality industry
Authors: Al Yousuf Mariam , Taylor Eunice , Taylor Joanne 
Published: January 2015

Purpose
– The purpose of this paper is to identify international best practice regarding food safety management across the food chain, with particular reference to hospitality businesses. It looks at the role of government strategy in the pursuit of a flexible approach that can be adapted and adopted by a diverse range of businesses. It is the first article in a Worldwide Hospitality and Tourism Themes theme issue, presenting a comprehensive government strategy for improving food safety management standards across the hospitality industry.

Design/methodology/approach
– A summary of key literature is presented alongside an in-depth analysis of international guidance for governments attempting to promote the uptake of hazard analysis critical control point-based food safety management systems. It is set within the context of recent Abu Dhabi Food Control Authority initiatives.

Findings
– The management of food safety across all sectors of the food industry and prevention of food-borne diseases represent a major challenge worldwide. International guidance for governments has been produced by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), but few governments have the resources to implement this effectively. Within Abu Dhabi, a four-year project was launched to support the hospitality sector in meeting international best practice standards, following guidance from FAO and extensive international benchmarking.

Originality/value
– This article brings together a theoretical and practical discussion of how the government can facilitate international food safety standards within the hospitality industry, with a unique insight into a practical application of strategy development and implementation at government level. It will be of value to practitioners, researchers, policymakers and other stakeholders involved in the food industry.