bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Does Numeracy Correlate With Measures of Health Literacy in the Emergency Department?
Authors: Griffey Richard T. , Melson Andrew T. , Lin Margaret J. , Carpenter Christopher R. , Goodman Melody S. , Kaphingst Kimberly A. 
Published: February 2014

AbstractObjectivesThe objective was to quantify the correlation between general numeracy and health literacy in an emergency department (ED) setting.MethodsThis was a prospective cross‐sectional convenience sample study of adult patients in an urban, academic ED with 97,000 annual visits. General numeracy was evaluated using four validated questions and health literacy using three commonly used validated screening tools (Short Test of Functional Health Literacy in Adults [S‐TOFHLA], Rapid Estimate of Adult Literacy in Medicine‐Revised [REALM‐R], and the Newest Vital Sign [NVS]). Scores were dichotomized for health literacy tests to limited (low or marginal) versus adequate health literacy, and the proportion of patients answering all numeracy questions correctly was calculated with the mean proportion of correct responses in these groups. The correlation between numeracy scores and scores on the health literacy screening tools was evaluated using Spearman's correlation.ResultsA total of 446 patients were enrolled. Performance on questions evaluating general numeracy was universally poor. Only 18 patients (4%) answered all numeracy questions correctly, 88 patients (20%) answered zero questions correctly, and overall the median number of correct answers was one (interquartile range [IQR] = 1 to 2). Among patients with limited health literacy (LHL) by any of the three screening tools used, the mean number of correct numeracy answers was approximately half that of patients with adequate health literacy. However, even among those with adequate health literacy, the average number of correct answers to numeracy questions ranged from 1.6 to 2.4 depending on the screening test used. When dichotomized into those who answered ≤50% versus >50% of numeracy questions correctly, there was a significant difference between those with LHL and those who scored ≤50% on numeracy. Health literacy screening results were correlated with general numeracy in the low to moderate range: S‐TOFHLA rs = 0.428 (p < 0.0001); REALM, rs = 0.400 (p < 0.0001); and NVS, rs = 0.498 (p < 0.0001).ConclusionsCorrelations between measures of general numeracy and measures of health literacy are in the low to moderate range. Performance on numeracy testing was nearly universally poor, even among patients performing well on health literacy screens, with a substantial proportion of the latter patients unable to answer half of the numeracy items correctly. Insofar as numeracy is considered a subset of health literacy, these results suggest that commonly used health literacy screening tools in ED‐based studies inadequately evaluate and overestimate numeracy. This suggests the potential need for separate numeracy screening when these skills are important for health outcomes of interest. Providers should be sensitive to potential numeracy deficits among those who may otherwise have normal health literacy.
Feasibility and Diagnostic Accuracy of Brief Health Literacy and Numeracy Screening Instruments in an Urban Emergency Department
Authors: Carpenter Christopher R. , Kaphingst Kimberly A. , Goodman Melody S. , Lin Margaret J. , Melson Andrew T. , Griffey Richard T. 
Published: February 2014

AbstractObjectivesThe objective was to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of five health literacy screening instruments in emergency department (ED) patients: the Rapid Evaluation of Adult Literacy in Medicine‐Revised (REALM‐R), the Newest Vital Sign (NVS), Single Item Literacy Screens (SILS), health numeracy, and physician gestalt. A secondary objective was to evaluate the feasibility of these instruments as measured by administration time, time on task, and interruptions during test administration.MethodsThis was a prospective observational cross‐sectional study of a convenience sampling of adult patients presenting during March 2011 and February 2012 to one urban university‐affiliated ED. Subjects were consenting non–critically ill, English‐speaking patients over the age of 18 years without aphasia, dementia, mental retardation, or inability to communicate. The diagnostic test characteristics of the REALM‐R, NVS, SILS, health numeracy, and physician gestalt were quantitatively assessed by using the short Test of Functional Health Literacy in Adults (S‐TOFHLA). A score of 22 or less was the criterion standard for limited health literacy (LHL).ResultsA total of 435 participants were enrolled, with a mean (±SD) age of 45 (±15.7) years, and 18% had less than a high school education. As defined by an S‐TOFHLA score of 22 or less, the prevalence of LHL was 23.9%. In contrast, the NVS, REALM‐R, and physician gestalt identified 64.8, 48.5, and 35% of participants as LHL, respectively. A normal NVS screen was the most useful test to exclude LHL, with a negative likelihood ratio of 0.04 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.01 to 0.17). When abnormal, none of the screening instruments, including physician gestalt, significantly increased the posttest probability of LHL. The NVS and REALM‐R require 3 and 5 minutes less time to administer than the S‐TOFHLA. Administration of the REALM‐R is associated with fewer test interruptions.ConclusionsOne‐quarter of these ED patients had marginal or inadequate health literacy. Among the brief screening instruments evaluated, a normal NVS result accurately reduced the probability of LHL, although it will identify two‐thirds of ED patients as high risk for LHL. None of the brief screening instruments significantly increases the probability of LHL when abnormal.
Biology of the bark beetleIps grandicollis Eichhoff (Coleoptera:Scolytinae) and its arthropod, nematode and microbial associates: a review of management opportunities forAustralia
Authors: Yousuf Fazila , Gurr Geoff M , Carnegie Angus J , Bedding Robin A , Bashford Richard , Gitau Catherine W 
Published: February 2014

AbstractThe five‐spined bark beetle,Ips grandicollis, is an exotic pest inAustralia that preferentially attacks stressed pine trees, includingPinus radiataD. Don, but it can also attack healthy trees. The beetle has been present inAustralia for 70 years, feeding principally on logging debris, with occasional outbreaks resulting in damage to plantations. Attack on trees stressed by drought, fire or storm damage leads to occasional significant losses. In recent years,I. grandicollishas been observed to attack ‘trap trees’ treated with herbicide to make them attractive toSirex noctilioFabricius as part of a successful biological control programme against this wood wasp.Ips grandicollisis able to tolerate a wide range of climatic conditions, and has an extensive geographical range (limited by host tree plantings). The economic impact ofI. grandicollisis exacerbated by adults vectoring a fungus,Ophiostoma ips(Rumbold) Nannfeldt, which discolours the outer sapwood and contributes to tree death. Nematodes also are also associated withI. grandicollis, both in the body cavity and under the elytra. The dominant nematode isContortylenchus grandicolliMassey, which is found internally, in haemocoel, the gut and the head region of the majority of adult beetles. Mites and bacteria are also associated withI. grandicollisbut their biology is not well known. Since the first detection ofI. grandicollisinAustralia, various bio‐control and other management strategies have been tested. While a better understanding of the microbial and nematode associates ofI. grandicollismay yield novel approaches for the management of this exotic pest, semiochemical‐based disruptants offer more immediate scope, particularly for protecting small areas of high value trees such as trap tree plots.
Genome‐wide scans to detect positive selection in Large White and Tongcheng pigs
Authors: Li Xiuling , Yang Songbai , Tang Zhonglin , Li Kui , Rothschild Max F. , Liu Bang , Fan Bin 
Published: February 2014

SummaryDue to the direction, intensity, duration and consistency of genetic selection, especially recent artificial selection, the production performance of domestic pigs has been greatly changed. Therefore, we reasoned that there must be footprints or selection signatures that had been left during domestication. In this study, with porcine 60K BeadChip genotyping data from both commercial Large White and local Chinese Tongcheng pigs, we calculated the extended haplotype homozygosity values of the two breeds using the long‐range haplotype method to detect selection signatures. We found 34 candidate regions, including 61 known genes, from Large White pigs and 25 regions comprising 57 known genes from Tongcheng pigs. Many selection signatures were found onSSC1,SSC4,SSC7 andSSC14 regions in both populations. According to quantitative trait loci and network pathway analyses, most of the regions and genes were linked to growth, reproduction and immune responses. In addition, the average genetic differentiation coefficientFSTwas 0.254, which means that there had already been a significant differentiation between the breeds. The findings from this study can contribute to further research on molecular mechanisms of pig evolution and domestication and also provide valuable references for improvement of their breeding and cultivation.
Structure, dynamics and movement patterns of the Australian pig industry
Authors: East IJ , Davis J , Sergeant ESG , Garner MG 
Published: February 2014

ObjectiveTo assess management practices and movement patterns that could influence the establishment and spread of exotic animal diseases (EAD) in pigs in Australia.MethodsA literature review of published information and a telephone survey of 370 pig producers owning >10 pigs who were registered with the PigPass national vendor declaration scheme.ResultsThe movement and marketing patterns of Australian pig producers interviewed were divided into two groups based predominantly on the size of the herd. Major pig producers maintain closed herds, use artificial insemination and market direct to abattoirs. Smaller producers continue to purchase from saleyards and market to other farms, abattoirs and through saleyards in an apparently opportunistic fashion. The role of saleyards in the Australian pig industry continues to decline, with 92% of all pigs marketed directly from farm to abattoir.ConclusionsThis survey described movement patterns that will assist in modelling the potential spread of EAD in the Australian pig industry. Continued movement towards vertical integration and closed herds in the Australian pig industry effectively divides the industry into a number of compartments that mitigate against the widespread dissemination of disease to farms adopting these practices.
Morphology of the tongue dorsal surface in white sea bream (Diplodus sargus sargus)
Authors: Guerrera Maria Cristina , Montalbano Giuseppe , Germanà Antonino , Maricchiolo Giulia , Ciriaco Emilia , Abbate Francesco 
Published: February 2014

AbstractIn the present study, the tongue dorsal surface of the white sea bream Diplodus sargus sargus (Linnaeus, 1758) (teleosts, Sparidae) was studied, to give a support to the knowledge of the anatomical characteristics of the oral cavity of a species with a future potential use in aquaculture. The feeding habits in captivity are one of the critical steps in the species of commercial interest, strictly related to the morphological characteristics of the oropharyngeal cavity. This study was undertaken, using light and scanning electron microscopy, to analyse the morphology of the dorsal tongue surface to show whether relationships are present between the anatomy and the nutritional habits and choices of this farmed species. Three zones, an apex, a body and a root, can be clearly distinguished, with a pouch partially covering the apex. In the pouch, cylindroid and mucosal ridges were observed. Along the whole tongue surface, from the apex to the root, on the medial and lateral parts, many papillae are present, with a fungiform, cylindroid and cone‐like aspect. Taste buds are showed on the dorsal surface of some papillae.
Niche Conservatism and Future Changes in the Potential Area Coverage ofArundina graminifolia, an Invasive Orchid Species from Southeast Asia
Authors: Kolanowska Marta , Konowalik Kamil 
Published: February 2014

AbstractThe Asian orchid,Arundina graminifolia, has been introduced to many locations over the last 50 yr, predominantly in South and Central America. A list of localities ofA. graminifoliawas compiled and used to model potential climatic niches based on the maximum entropy method. The differences are presented between niches occupied by native and invasive populations ofA. graminifolia, and possible changes in the potential range of the species are discussed on the basis of various climate change scenarios. The coverage of habitats suitable forA. graminifoliawill be reduced under future climate changes scenarios. The created niche distribution models indicated a more significant reduction in the potential ecological niches of the studied species in its invasive range. Nevertheless, areas with potentially suitable bioclimatic conditions forA. graminifoliashould be monitored to prevent future uncontrolled invasion of the orchid into new habitats and to study its impact on the local ecosystems, as vast areas of its potential niche in the Americas are still unoccupied.
Leptin hormone level in serum of opticospinal, neuromyelitisoptica and multiple sclerosis patients
Authors: Bahrami Ehsan , Zarkesh‐Esfahani Sayyed Hamid , Kardi Mohammad T. , Mostajeran Maryam , Triot Alexa , Bouzari Majid , Maghzi Amir H. , Etemadifar Masoud 
Published: February 2014

AbstractObjectivesA growing body of evidence shows that leptin acts as a pro‐inflammatory cytokine in autoimmune disorders and is related to multiple sclerosis (MS) pathogenesis. The present study was an analysis of serum leptin levels among healthy volunteers and patients with different subtypes of MS, opticospinal MS (OSMS) and neuromyelitis optica (NMO).MethodsLeptin concentrations in the sera of 121 healthy volunteers and 201 patients with different subtypes of MS, as well as in 27 NMO and 27 OSMS, were measured.ResultsSignificant differences in leptin serum levels were observed between healthy volunteers, and MS, OSMS and NMO patients (P < 0.001). Furthermore, leptin serum concentration was in correlation with expanded disability status scale (EDSS) in primary progressive MS and secondary progressive MS groups. Interestingly, while the female‐to‐male ratio of leptin was approximately 2 in each group, the NMO female patients showed sevenfold higher levels of leptin than males.ConclusionThe present results show that leptin concentration is important in the pathogenesis of different neuroinflammatory diseases of the central nervous system, in particular NMO.
Primary Stability of a Hybrid Implant Compared with Tapered and Cylindrical Implants in an Ex Vivo Model
Authors: Toyoshima Takeshi , Tanaka Hideaki , Ayukawa Yasunori , Howashi Miori , Masuzaki Tomohiro , Kiyosue Takahiro , Koyano Kiyoshi , Nakamura Seiji 
Published: February 2014

AbstractBackgroundHybrid implants are thought to offer good stability and bone‐implant contact.PurposeThis study sought to evaluate the primary stability of a hybrid implant compared with tapered and cylindrical implants in an ex vivo model and compare undersized drilling with standard drilling in attaining primary stability.Materials and MethodsHybrid (Straumann® Bone Level; BL), tapered (Straumann® Tapered Effect; TE), and cylindrical (Straumann® Standard Plus; SP) implants were inserted into 15 mm–thick porcine iliac crest blocks using standard (corticocancellous or cancellous bone) or undersized (cancellous bone only) drilling (n = 7). Stability was evaluated using maximum insertion torque (MIT), implant stability quotient (ISQ), and push‐out tests.ResultsThe mean MIT for BL and TE was significantly higher than that for SP (p < 0.05). With standard drilling in corticocancellous bone, the mean ISQ for TE was significantly higher than that for SP (p < .05). The mean MIT, ISQ, and push‐out test scores for BL, TE, and SP with standard drilling in corticocancellous bone were significantly higher than those with undersized or standard drilling in cancellous bone (p < .05).ConclusionsIn this ex vivo model, the hybrid implant demonstrated promising primary stability compared with the cylindrical implant. The improved stability of the hybrid implant was especially evident in cancellous bone. The influence of the cortical layer should be recognized when selecting implants for primary stability.
Institutions and Equity Structure of Foreign Affiliates
Authors: Driffield Nigel , Mickiewicz Tomasz , Temouri Yama 
Published: February 2014

AbstractManuscript TypeEmpiricalResearch Question/IssueWe combine agency and institutional theory to explain the division of equity shares between the foreign (majority) and local (minority) partners within foreign affiliates. We posit that once the decision to invest is made, the ownership structure is arranged so as to generate appropriate incentives to local partners, taking into account both the institutional environment and the firm‐specific difficulty in monitoring.Research Findings/InsightsUsing a large firm‐level dataset for the period 2003–2011 from 16 Central and Eastern European countries and applying selectivity corrected estimates, we find that both weaker host country institutions and higher share of intangible assets in total assets in the firm imply higher minority equity share of local partners. The findings hold when controlling for host country effects and when the attributes of the institutional environment are instrumented.Theoretical/Academic ImplicationsThe classic view is that weak institutions lead to concentrated ownership, yet it leaves the level of minority equity shares unexplained. Our contribution uses a firm‐level perspective combined with national‐level variation in the institutional environment, and applies agency theory to explain the minority local partner share in foreign affiliates. In particular, we posit that the information asymmetry and monitoring problem in firms are exacerbated by weak host country institutions, but also by the higher share of intangible assets in total assets.Practitioner/Policy ImplicationsAssessing investment opportunities abroad, foreign firms need to pay attention not only to features directly related to corporate governance (e.g., bankruptcy codes) but also to the broad institutional environment. In weak institutional environments, foreign parent firms need to create strong incentives for local partners by offering them significant minority shares in equity. The same recommendation applies to firms with higher shares of intangible assets in total assets.
The effects of N‐ethyl‐N′‐methyl imidazolium chloride on the solubility, stability and aggregation of tc‐rPA
Authors: Tischer Alexander , Pultke Heiko , Topf Andrea , Auton Matthew , Lange Christian , Lilie Hauke 
Published: February 2014

The ionic liquid N‐ethyl‐N′‐methyl imidazolium chloride (EMIMCl) has been described as being very efficient in promoting refolding of the recombinant plasminogen activator rPA. Our study reveals that molar concentrations of EMIMCl increase the solubility of native and unfolded proteins due to favorable interactions with amino acid side chains rather than favorably interacting with the peptide backbone. This delicate balance of favorable interactions with side chains and unfavorable interactions with the peptide backbone provides a molecular explanation of how EMIMCl suppresses protein aggregation and simultaneously promotes refolding. By contrast, high concentrations of EMIMCl denature proteins because of a reduced water content and strong favorable interactions with amino acid side chains. This denatured species is not soluble and aggregates because, in contrast to the classical denaturants, guanidine hydrochloride and urea, EMIMCl does not solubilize the peptide backbone.Structured digital abstract
PNP and PNP bind by molecular sieving (1, 2, 3, 4)
Pressure pain threshold of the cervico‐facial muscles in healthy elderly people: the role of gender, age and dominance
Authors: De Rui Marina , Marini Ida , Bartolucci Maria Lavinia , Inelmen Emine Meral , Bortolotti Francesco , Manzato Enzo , Gatto Maria Rosaria Antonella , Checchi Luigi , Sergi Giuseppe 
Published: February 2014

ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to assess the impact of age on pressure pain threshold (PPT) of cervico‐facial muscles in healthy geriatric subjects and to investigate the role of gender and dominance on nociception.BackgroundMusculo‐skeletal pain is common in the elderly, but being subjective, it risks to be underdiagnosed and undertreated. A useful method for assessment of local pain is determiningPPTthrough pressure algometry. Ageing process seems to increasePPTs, but reference values for the assessment of pain in geriatric subjects are lacking.MethodsIn this study,PPTs in temporal muscle, masseter, sternocleidomastoid, occipital and splenius capitis of 97 healthy elderly subjects were measured usingFischer algometer. Participants were divided by age in four classes (years 65–69; 70–74; 75–79; ≥80).ResultsWomen had lowerPPTs in all muscles compared with men. ComparingPPTs obtained from the right and the left side, no significant differences were recorded neither in men nor in women. When dividing subjects by age class and education, in both genders no significant differences were observed inPPTs among the groups, neither in the right nor in the left sides.ConclusionIn conclusion, the present study reports referencePPTvalues for the cervico‐facial muscles that can be applied to a population of healthy elderly subjects. After 65 years of age, further ageing does not influencePPTs in cervico‐facial muscles whereas female gender has lowerPPTs.
Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension: Pseudotumor Cerebri
Authors: Kosmorsky Gregory S. 
Published: February 2014

BackgroundIdiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) is most often diagnosed in young obese females of childbearing years. The diagnosis is made based on the modified Dandy criteria and the exclusion of alternate causes of raised intracranial pressure.ResultsThe focus of this review is to provide an overview of the diagnosis and treatment options for patients with IIH. There are long‐term consequences for patients experiencing IIH, with visual loss being the most serious.ConclusionWe conclude that the diagnosis of IIH is not usually difficult. An ophthalmologic examination is essential in patients with IIH to monitor visual function. A neurologist or neurosurgeon may be needed at some point for medical and/or surgical intervention.