bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Governance Processes and Change Within Organizational Participants of Multi‐sectoral Community Health Care Alliances: The Mediating Role of Vision, Mission, Strategy Agreement and Perceived Alliance Value
Authors: Hearld Larry R. , Alexander Jeffrey A.
Published: January 2014

Multi‐sectoral community health care alliances are organizations that bring together individuals and organizations from different industry sectors to work collaboratively on improving the health and health care in local communities. Long‐term success and sustainability of alliances are dependent on their ability to galvanize participants to take action within their ‘home’ organizations and institutionalize the vision, goals, and programs within participating organizations and the broader community. The purpose of this study was to investigate two mechanisms by which alliance leadership and management processes may promote such changes within organizations participating in alliances. The findings of the study suggest that, despite modest levels of change undertaken by participating organizations, more positive perceptions of alliance leadership, decision making, and conflict management were associated with a greater likelihood of participating organizations making changes as a result of their participation in the alliance, in part by promoting greater vision, mission, and strategy agreement and higher levels of perceived value. Leadership processes had a stronger relationship with change within participating organizations than decision‐making style and conflict management processes. Open‐ended responses by participants indicated that participating organizations most often incorporated new measures or goals into their existing portfolio of strategic plans and activities in response to alliance participation.
Preparation and Physiochemical Properties of Disodium Lauryl Glucoside Sulfosuccinate
Authors: Gao Yuyang , Yang Xiuquan , Bai Liang , Zhang Jun
Published: January 2014

A new synthetic route to a mild surfactant disodium lauryl glucoside sulfosuccinate (AG‐SS) containing two hydrophilic groups is described and its measured physicochemical properties reported. AG‐SS was synthesized from lauryl glucoside reacted with maleic acid anhydride, and then sulfonated with sodium sulfite. The structure and composition of the product were defined by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry. The surface activity measurement showed that the critical micelle concentration (CMC) and that the surface tension at CMC (γCMC) of AG‐SS were 2.59 × 10−4 mol/L and 35.21 mN/m at 25 °C, respectively. AG‐SS exhibited excellent water solubility eliminating the disadvantage of lauryl glucoside; its foaming ability was also remarkable.
Development of anonymous nuclear markers from Illumina paired-end data for Seychelles caecilian amphibians (Gymnophiona: Indotyphlidae)
Authors: Lewis Claire J. , Maddock Simon T. , Day Julia J. , Nussbaum Ronald A. , Morel Charles , Wilkinson Mark , Foster Peter G. , Gower David J.
Published: January 2014

Anonymous nuclear markers were developed for Seychelles caecilian amphibians. Using a previously published bioinformatics pipeline (developed for Roche 454 data), 36 candidate anonymous nuclear loci (ANL) of at least 180 bp length were identified from Illumina MiSeq next generation sequencing data for five Seychelles species. We designed primer pairs for the 36 candidate ANL and tested these by PCR and Sanger sequencing. Seven ANL amplified and sequenced well for at least five of the six nominal Seychelles caecilian species (in three genera), and represent potentially useful markers for systematics and conservation.
Time course of brain volume changes in the preclinical phase of Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Bernard Charlotte , Helmer Catherine , Dilharreguy Bixente , Amieva Hélène , Auriacombe Sophie , Dartigues Jean‐François , Allard Michèle , Catheline Gwénaëlle
Published: January 2014

Background

Structural alterations of a large network characterize Alzheimer's disease (AD), but the time course of these changes remains unclear. The dynamic of these alterations was examined in the AD preclinical phase using data from the 10‐year follow‐up of a population‐based cohort (Bordeaux‐3City).

Methods

Participants received neuropsychological assessments every 2 years and two identical magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) exams at baseline and 4 years later. Twenty‐five incident AD cases were compared with 319 subjects who remained free of dementia. Subjects were free of dementia at baseline and at follow‐up MRI. Incident AD occurred after these time points.

Results

At baseline, incident AD already presented smaller volumes only in the left amygdalo‐hippocampal complex. Moreover, a higher annual rate of atrophy of the temporoparietal cortices was observed in future AD subjects during the following 4 years.

Conclusion

Incident AD cases present mediotemporal lesions up to 5 years before diagnosis. This neurodegenerative process seems to progressively reach the temporoparietal cortices in the AD preclinical phase.
OPTIMAL BONUS-MALUS SYSTEMS USING FINITE MIXTURE MODELS
Authors: Tzougas George , Vrontos Spyridon , Frangos Nicholas
Published: January 2014

This paper presents the design of optimal Bonus-Malus Systems using finite mixture models, extending the work of Lemaire (1995; Lemaire, J. (1995) Bonus-Malus Systems in Automobile Insurance. Norwell, MA: Kluwer) and Frangos and Vrontos (2001; Frangos, N. and Vrontos, S. (2001) Design of optimal bonus-malus systems with a frequency and a severity component on an individual basis in automobile insurance. ASTIN Bulletin, 31(1), 1–22). Specifically, for the frequency component we employ finite Poisson, Delaporte and Negative Binomial mixtures, while for the severity component we employ finite Exponential, Gamma, Weibull and Generalized Beta Type II mixtures, updating the posterior probability. We also consider the case of a finite Negative Binomial mixture and a finite Pareto mixture updating the posterior mean. The generalized Bonus-Malus Systems we propose, integrate risk classification and experience rating by taking into account both the a priori and a posteriori characteristics of each policyholder.
The influence of Reynolds number on the triple point trajectories at shock reflection off cylindrical surfaces
Authors: Kleine H. , Timofeev E. , Hakkaki-Fard A. , Skews B.
Published: January 2014

In the unsteady process of shock reflection off convexly curved surfaces, the Reynolds number can have an influence on the development of the irregular reflection pattern. Time-resolved visualizations of the reflection process and high-resolution numerical simulation are used in this investigation to quantify this influence, which manifests itself in a delayed growth of the shock pattern with decreasing Reynolds number. In order to conduct reliable and unambiguous measurements, the present study concentrates on observing the development of the established irregular reflection pattern rather than attempting to determine the transition point directly. It can be seen that the influence of the Reynolds number is highly nonlinear and that changes of two orders of magnitude or more are required to produce a reliably measurable difference in the triple point trajectories, which is considerably more than what has so far been reported in the literature. The results allow one to make inferences regarding the transition process and they help to clarify previously reported discrepancies between predicted and experimentally determined transition angles.
JOINS AND COVERS IN INVERSE SEMIGROUPS AND TIGHT -ALGEBRAS
Authors: DONSIG ALLAN P. , MILAN DAVID
Published: January 2014

We show Exel’s tight representation of an inverse semigroup can be described in terms of joins and covers in the natural partial order. Using this, we show that the ${C}^{\ast } $-algebra of a finitely aligned category of paths, developed by Spielberg, is the tight ${C}^{\ast } $-algebra of a natural inverse semigroup. This includes as a special case finitely aligned higher-rank graphs: that is, for such a higher-rank graph $\Lambda $, the tight ${C}^{\ast } $-algebra of the inverse semigroup associated to $\Lambda $ is the same as the ${C}^{\ast } $-algebra of $\Lambda $.
The intrinsic cost of cognitive control
Authors: Kool Wouter , Botvinick Matthew
Published: January 2014

Kurzban and colleagues carry forward an important contemporary movement in cognitive control research, tending away from resource-based models and toward a framework focusing on motivation or value. However, their specific proposal, centering on opportunity costs, appears problematic. We favor a simpler view, according to which the exertion of cognitive control carries intrinsic subjective costs.
Weather and livestock risk factors for Escherichia coli O157 human infection in Alberta, Canada
Authors: BIFOLCHI N. , MICHEL P. , TALBOT J. , SVENSON L. , SIMMONDS K. , CHECKLEY S. , CHUI L. , DICK P. , WILSON J. B.
Published: January 2014

This study investigated the extent to which proximity to cattle and weather events in Alberta predispose human populations to E. coli O157 disease. Cases of human E. coli O157 infection in Alberta between 2004 and 2011 were obtained from the province's Communicable Disease Reporting System and Discharge Abstract Database. Regression models based on spatial area incorporated human infection data with livestock and weather covariates. A variety of regression models were applied (i.e. least squares, spatial lag/error, Poisson, negative binomial) to test the most appropriate approach. Ratios for the total number of calves, bulls and beef cows to human population were highlighted as significant cattle density variables in all final best-fitting models. Weather variables were not significant in final regression models averaged over the full study period. Our results provide evidence of a significant association between measures of cattle density and human E. coli O157 disease in Alberta.
A three-phase free boundary problem with melting ice and dissolving gas
Authors: CESERI MAURIZIO , STOCKIE JOHN M.
Published: January 2014

We develop a mathematical model for a three-phase free boundary problem in one dimension that involves interactions between gas, water and ice. The dynamics are driven by melting of the ice layer, while the pressurized gas also dissolves within the meltwater. The model incorporates the Stefan condition at the water–ice interface along with Henry's law for dissolution of gas at the gas–water interface. We employ a quasi-steady approximation for the phase temperatures and then derive a series solution for the interface positions. A non-standard feature of the model is an integral free boundary condition that arises from mass conservation owing to changes in gas density at the gas–water interface, which makes the problem non-self-adjoint. We derive a two-scale asymptotic series solution for the dissolved gas concentration, which because of the non-self-adjointness gives rise to a Fourier series expansion in eigenfunctions that do not satisfy the usual orthogonality conditions. Numerical simulations of the original governing equations are used to validate series approximations.
Is vitamin D status associated with open-angle glaucoma? A cross-sectional study from South Korea
Authors: Yoo Tae Keun , Oh Ein , Hong Samin
Published: January 2014

Objective

Open-angle glaucoma (OAG) is one of the major chronic diseases involving the optic nerve. However, little is known about the association between vitamin D and OAG. The present study was conducted to test the hypothesis that lower vitamin D status is associated with greater prevalence of OAG.

Design

Cross-sectional study. Multivariable logistic regression was performed to examine the relationship between serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) and OAG after adjusting for traditional potential confounders. OAG was defined by the criteria of the International Society for Geographical and Epidemiological Ophthalmology.

Setting

The Fifth Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey conducted in 2010–2011.

Subjects

Six thousand and ninety-four adult participants randomly selected from 192 surveys in 131 locations in South Korea.

Results

Multivariable-adjusted odds ratios of OAG across quintiles of decreasing 25(OH)D were 1·26, 1·00 (reference), 1·31, 1·36 and 1·69 (P for quadratic trend <0·01). The odds ratio for the lowest 25(OH)D quintile was significantly higher than that for the second quintile (P < 0·01). In addition, we discovered that the predictors for worsening of OAG, such as intraocular pressure or vertical and horizontal cup-to-disc ratios, had a significant relationship with 25(OH)D level.

Conclusions

There was a reverse J-shaped association between 25(OH)D levels and the risk of OAG, with significantly elevated risk at lower 25(OH)D. The findings of this research suggest that vitamin D deficiency should be considered as a potential risk factor for the development of OAG. To our knowledge, the present study is the first one that shows an association between vitamin D status and OAG.
Lack of common TCRA and TCRB clonotypes in CD8+/TCRαβ+ T-cell large granular lymphocyte leukemia: a review on the role of antigenic selection in the immunopathogenesis of CD8+ T-LGL
Authors: Sandberg Y , Kallemeijn M J , Dik W A , Tielemans D , Wolvers-Tettero I L M , van Gastel-Mol E J , Szczepanski T , Pol Y , Darzentas N , van Dongen J J M , Langerak A W
Published: January 2014

Clonal CD8+/T-cell receptor (TCR)αβ+ T-cell large granular lymphocyte (T-LGL) proliferations constitute the most common subtype of T-LGL leukemia. Although the etiology of T-LGL leukemia is largely unknown, it has been hypothesized that chronic antigenic stimulation contributes to the pathogenesis of this disorder. In the present study, we explored the association between expanded TCR-Vβ and TCR-Vα clonotypes in a cohort of 26 CD8+/TCRαβ+ T-LGL leukemia patients, in conjunction with the HLA-ABC genotype, to find indications for common antigenic stimuli. In addition, we applied purpose-built sophisticated computational tools for an in-depth evaluation of clustering of TCRβ (TCRB) complementarity determining region 3 (CDR3) amino-acid LGL clonotypes. We observed a lack of clear TCRA and TCRB CDR3 homology in CD8+/TCRαβ+ T-LGL, with only low level similarity between small numbers of cases. This is in strong contrast to the homology that is seen in CD4+/TCRαβ+ T-LGL and TCRγδ+ T-LGL and thus underlines the idea that the LGL types have different etiopathogenesis. The heterogeneity of clonal CD8+/TCRαβ+ T-LGL proliferations might in fact suggest that multiple pathogens or autoantigens are involved.
Exogenous rhTRX reduces lipid accumulation under LPS-induced inflammation
Authors: Han Gi-Yeon , Lee Eun-Kyung , Park Hey-won , Kim Hyun-Jung , Kim Chan-Wha
Published: January 2014

Redox-regulating molecule, recombinant human thioredoxin (rhTRX) which shows anti-inflammatory, and anti-oxidative effects against lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated inflammation and regulate protein expression levels. LPS-induced reactive oxygen intermediates (ROI) and NO production were inhibited by exogenous rhTRX. We identified up/downregulated intracellular proteins under the LPS-treated condition in exogenous rhTRX-treated A375 cells compared with non-LPS-treated cells via 2-DE proteomic analysis. Also, we quantitatively measured cytokines of in vivo mouse inflammation models using cytometry bead array. Exogenous rhTRX inhibited LPS-stimulated production of ROI and NO levels. TIP47 and ATP synthase may influence the inflammation-related lipid accumulation by affecting lipid metabolism. The modulation of skin redox environments during inflammation is most likely to prevent alterations in lipid metabolism through upregulation of TIP47 and ATP synthase and downregulation of inflammatory cytokines. Our results demonstrate that exogenous rhTRX has anti-inflammatory properties and intracellular regulatory activity in vivo and in vitro. Monitoring of LPS-stimulated pro-inflammatory conditions treated with rhTRX in A375 cells could be useful for diagnosis and follow-up of inflammation reduction related with candidate proteins. These results have a therapeutic role in skin inflammation therapy.
A novel CO2-stable dual phase membrane with high oxygen permeability
Authors: Liang Fangyi , Luo Huixia , Partovi Kaveh , Ravkina Olga , Cao Zhengwen , Liu Yi , Caro Jürgen
Published: January 2014

A good combination of high CO2 stability and high oxygen permeability is obtained for the novel CP–PSFC dual phase membrane.
Zn-BTC MOFs with active metal sites synthesized via a structure-directing approach for highly efficient carbon conversion
Authors: Huang Xianqiang , Chen Yifa , Lin Zhengguo , Ren Xiaoqian , Song Yuna , Xu Zhenzhu , Dong Xinmei , Li Xingguo , Hu Changwen , Wang Bo
Published: January 2014

BIT-101, BIT-102 and BIT-103 have been synthesized via a structure-directing strategy and exhibit extraordinary catalytic performance in the cycloaddition of CO2.
Catalysis engineering of bifunctional solids for the one-step synthesis of liquid fuels from syngas: a review
Authors: Sartipi Sina , Makkee Michiel , Kapteijn Freek , Gascon Jorge
Published: January 2014

The combination of acidic zeolites and Fischer–Tropsch synthesis (FTS) catalysts for one-step production of liquid fuels from syngas is critically reviewed.
Creating functional engineered variants of the single-module non-ribosomal peptide synthetase IndC by T domain exchange
Authors: Beer Ralf , Herbst Konrad , Ignatiadis Nikolaos , Kats Ilia , Adlung Lorenz , Meyer Hannah , Niopek Dominik , Christiansen Tania , Georgi Fanny , Kurzawa Nils , Meichsner Johanna , Rabe Sophie , Riedel Anja , Sachs Joshua , Schessner Julia , Schmidt Florian , Walch Philipp , Niopek Katharina , Heinemann Tim , Eils Roland , Di Ventura Barbara
Published: January 2014

Production of indigoidine can be enhanced by swapping a synthetic T domain into the NRPS IndC.
Environmental SEM monitoring of Ce1−xLnxO2−x/2mixed-oxide microstructural evolution during dissolution
Authors: Horlait D. , Claparede L. , Tocino F. , Clavier N. , Ravaux J. , Szenknect S. , Podor R. , Dacheux N.
Published: January 2014

Evolution of sintered Ce1−xLnxO2−x/2samples during dissolution tests in acidic media was followed in the same zone by environmental scanning microscopy.
Formation of persistent ordered lamellar mesophases in azobenzene-containing silver thiolates and their application in the controlled synthesis of silver nanomaterials
Authors: Duan Junfei , Ma Jie , Wu Bin , Li Qian , Fang Jianglin , Chen Dongzhong
Published: January 2014

Mesogenic silver thiolate precursors provide an ideal two-dimensional confined platform for the fascinating controlled preparation of 2D shaped nanomaterials via a layered-precursor-to-lamellar-nanomaterial (LPLM) mechanism.
Effect of Surrounding Texture on the Pursuit-Pursuing Illusion
Authors: Bai Yuanyuan , Ito Hiroyuki
Published: January 2014

The pursuit-pursuing illusion is a visual illusion where a circular object placed in the centre of a radial pattern consisting of thin sectors is seen to move in the pursuit eye movement direction. The present study investigates the role of the surrounding texture, replacing the sectors with random dots or stripes in an orientation that was orthogonal, parallel or oblique to the pursuit direction. The experiments demonstrate that the acquired illusory effect was large for the orthogonal stripes. However, each surrounding texture produces a relatively smaller effect than the radial sectors. These results suggest that a hypothesis based on the property of a centre-surround relative-motion detector cannot fully explain the illusion and that the radial stimulus structure itself plays an important role in this illusion.
Height estimate for special Weingarten surfaces of elliptic type in 𝕄²(𝕔)×ℝ
Authors: Morabito Filippo
Published: January 2014

In this article we provide a vertical height estimate for compact special Weingarten surfaces of elliptic type in

M

2

(
c
)
×

R

{\mathbb M}^2(c) \times \mathbb {R}

, i.e. surfaces whose mean curvature

H
H

and extrinsic Gauss curvature

K
e

K_e

satisfy

H
=
f
(

H
2

−

K
e

)

H=f(H^2-K_e)

with

4
x
(

f
′

(
x
)

)
2

>
1
,

4x(f’(x))^2>1,

for all

x
∈
[
0
,
+
∞
)
.

x \in [0,+\infty ).

The vertical height estimate generalizes a result by Rosenberg and Sa Earp and applies only to surfaces verifying a height estimate condition. When

c
>
0
,

c>0,

using also a horizontal height estimate, we show a non-existence result for properly embedded Weingarten surfaces of elliptic type in

H

2

(
c
)
×

R

\mathbb {H}^2(c) \times \mathbb {R}

with finite topology and one end.
Parasitism, condition and reproduction of the European hake (Merluccius merluccius) in the northwestern Mediterranean Sea
Authors: Ferrer-Maza Dolors , Lloret Josep , Muñoz Marta , Faliex Elisabeth , Vila Sílvia , Sasal Pierre
Published: January 2014

It is well known that parameters relating to physical condition and reproduction of fish provide essential data for estimating the productivity of exploited populations, as is the case with the European hake (Merluccius merluccius) in the northwestern Mediterranean Sea. Although parasitism might affect these parameters, research in this area is very scarce (and in the case of the Mediterranean almost non-existent). This study evaluates for the first time the potential link between parasitism, condition and reproduction of the European hake. Indicators of fish energy reserves (total lipid content in liver and gonads) and reproductive capacity (fecundity, egg quality and atresia) were evaluated, as were the prevalence and intensity of infection by metazoan parasites. The results indicate that the impact of anisakid nematodes is mostly negative and occurs mainly when hake are allocating their energy reserves to gonadal development. Although the results reveal a link between parasitism, condition and reproduction, we concluded that the northwestern Mediterranean hake population is in equilibrium with its metazoan parasites, which are not causing severe impairment to their physical condition or reproductive capacity.
Opening Injection Pressure Consistently Detects Needle–Nerve Contact during Ultrasound-guided Interscalene Brachial Plexus Block
Authors: Gadsden Jeff C. , Choi Jason J. , Lin Emily , Robinson Allegra
Published: January 2014

Background:

Needle trauma may cause neuropathy after nerve blockade. Even without injection, nerve injury can result from forceful needle–nerve contact (NNC). High opening injection pressures (OIPs) have been associated with intrafascicular needle tip placement and nerve damage; however, the relationship between OIP and NNC is unclear. The authors conducted a prospective, observational study to define this relationship.

Methods:

Sixteen patients scheduled for shoulder surgery under interscalene block were enrolled if they had clear ultrasound images of the brachial plexus roots. A 22-gauge stimulating needle was inserted within 1 mm of the root, and 1-ml D5W injected at 10 ml/min by using an automated pump. OIP was monitored using an in-line pressure manometer and injections aborted if 15 psi or greater. The needle was advanced to displace the nerve slightly (NNC), and the procedure repeated. Occurrence of evoked motor response and paresthesia were recorded.

Results:

Fifteen patients had at least one clearly visible root. OIP at 1 mm distance from the nerve was less than 15 psi (mean peak pressure 8.2 ± 2.4 psi) and the 1-ml injection could be completed in all but two cases (3%). In contrast, OIP during NNC was 15 psi or greater (mean peak pressure 20.9 ± 3.7 psi) in 35 of 36 injections. Aborting the injection when OIP reached 15 psi prevented commencement of injection in all cases of NNC except one.

Conclusion:

High OIP (≥15 psi) consistently detected NNC, suggesting that injection pressure monitoring may be useful in preventing injection against nerve roots during interscalene block.
Empiric Antibiotic Therapy of Nosocomial Bacterial Infections
Authors: Reddy Pramod
Published: January 2014

Broad-spectrum antibiotics are commonly used by physicians to treat various infections. The source of infection and causative organisms are not always apparent during the initial evaluation of the patient, and antibiotics are often given empirically to patients with suspected sepsis. Fear of attempting cephalosporins and carbapenems in penicillin-allergic septic patients may result in significant decrease in the spectrum of antimicrobial coverage. Empiric antibiotic therapy should sufficiently cover all the suspected pathogens, guided by the bacteriologic susceptibilities of the medical center. It is important to understand the major pharmacokinetic properties of antibacterial agents for proper use and to minimize the development of resistance. In several septic patients, negative cultures do not exclude active infection and positive cultures may not represent the actual infection. This article will review the important differences in the spectrum of commonly used antibiotics for nosocomial bacterial infections with a particular emphasis on culture-negative sepsis and colonization.
A long-term demasculinization of X-linked intergenic noncoding RNAs in Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Gao Ge , Vibranovski Maria D. , Zhang Li , Li Zheng , Liu Ming , Zhang Yong E. , Li Xinmin , Zhang Wenxia , Fan Qichang , VanKuren Nicholas W. , Long Manyuan , Wei Liping
Published: January 2014

Recent studies have revealed key roles of noncoding RNAs in sex-related pathways, but little is known about the evolutionary forces acting on these noncoding RNAs. Profiling the transcriptome of Drosophila melanogaster with whole-genome tiling arrays found that 15% of male-biased transcribed fragments are intergenic noncoding RNAs (incRNAs), suggesting a potentially important role for incRNAs in sex-related biological processes. Statistical analysis revealed a paucity of male-biased incRNAs and coding genes on the X chromosome, suggesting that similar evolutionary forces could be affecting the genomic organization of both coding and noncoding genes. Expression profiling across germline and somatic tissues further suggested that both male meiotic sex chromosome inactivation (MSCI) and sexual antagonism could contribute to the chromosomal distribution of male-biased incRNAs. Comparative sequence analysis showed that the evolutionary age of male-biased incRNAs is a significant predictor of their chromosomal locations. In addition to identifying abundant sex-biased incRNAs in the fly genome, our work unveils a global picture of the complex interplay between noncoding RNAs and sexual chromosome evolution.
2-[(E)-2-(3,4-Dichlorobenzylidene)hydrazin-1-yl]quinoxaline
Authors: Noguiera Thais C. M. , Pinheiro Alexandra C. , Souza Marcus V. N. de , Wardell James L. , Tiekink Edward R. T.
Published: January 2014

The 21 non-H atoms of the title compound, C15H10Cl2N4, are almost planar (r.m.s. deviation = 0.032 Å); the conformation about the N=C bond [1.277 (6) Å] isE. In the crystal, zigzag supramolecular chains along thecaxis (glide symmetry) are formedviaN—H...N hydrogen bonds. These associate along thebaxis by π–π interactions between the fused and terminal benzene rings [intercentroid distance = 3.602 (3) Å] so that layers form in thebcplane.
Leveraging human resource development expertise to improve supply chain managers' skills and competencies
Authors: E. Ellinger Alexander , D. Ellinger Andrea
Published: January 2014

Purpose

– There is an ongoing shortage of talented supply chain managers with the necessary skills and business-related competencies to manage increasingly complex and strategically important supply chain processes. The purpose of this paper is to propose that organizations can create and maintain competitive advantage by leveraging the expertise of human resource development (HRD) professionals to provide a range of developmental and change-oriented interventions related to critical supply chain manager skill sets that are currently in short supply.

Design/methodology/approach

– This is a conceptual paper.

Findings

– This is a conceptual paper.

Practical implications

– Supply chain management (SCM) decisions significantly influence financial performance since firms expend up to 75 percent of their revenue on supply chain activities. HRD professionals' intervention capabilities in training and development, organizational development and change management uniquely equip them to disseminate a deeper and broader understanding of the SCM concept within organizations, to help prioritize the development of supply chain managers and to address the complex interpersonal issues associated with helping people to work together collaboratively to foster operational innovation and make increasingly complex supply chain processes function effectively.

Originality/value

– The requisite skill sets for effective supply chain managers are described, linkages between HRD and SCM are highlighted, and areas of HRD professionals' expertise that can be exploited to better develop supply chain managers' skill sets and competencies are considered.
Exploiting managerial capability for innovation in a micro-firm context
Authors: Kearney Arthur , Harrington Denis , Kelliher Felicity
Published: January 2014

Purpose

– The paper has been developed from a critical review of available literature drawn from the micro firm, managerial capability and innovation management fields. The paper aims to address these issues.

Design/methodology/approach

– The paper has been developed from a critical review of available literature drawn from the micro firm, managerial capability and innovation management fields.

Findings

– Four criteria of micro firm managerial capability emerge from micro firm managerial traits in the literature namely, leadership; strategic thinking; problem solving and people relationships. The review also shows that micro firms are embedded in three resource pools which include stakeholder ties; the local community and the proximate market environment. Micro firm managerial capability is argued to emerge from the interaction of the managerial capability criteria and the resources in a process mediated by the resource based and dynamic capabilities perspectives from the strategic management literature.

Research limitations/implications

– A gap in the academic literature is identified and the proposed theoretical model is presented to address this deficiency in the literature. Future empirical research is recommended.

Practical implications

– This proposed model will allow practitioners to better conceptualise and design programmes that will assist companies in developing managerial capabilities to innovate. Deep links between hotel industry practitioners and the academic community will enable the effective dissemination of the research.

Originality/value

– Hotel micro firms play an important social and economic role. There has been little research into how they innovate and specifically into managerial capability for innovation in context. The present research uses conceptual research to map the field and identify critical avenues for future research.
Insights from the failure of the Countrywide Financial Corporation
Authors: Freeman Willoe , Wells Peter , Wyatt Anne
Published: January 2014

Purpose

– This paper aims to evaluate the business activities, financial reports, and management compensation practices of Countrywide Financial Corporation (Countrywide) in the period preceding the company's financial distress and leading to its eventual takeover by Bank of America in 2008. This analysis provides a number of insights into the risks that Countrywide was exposed to which may guide future research and financial management.

Design/methodology/approach

– Case study evaluating the failure of Countrywide Financial Corporation.

Findings

– First, Countrywide was highly reliant upon the securitization of mortgage loans to finance its activities and this was apparent in the financial reports. Second, these securitization transactions exposed Countrywide to significant financial risks, including the risk inherent in the uncertain values of residual interests and warrantees. Problematically, these risks were not transparently reflected in the financial reports, as confirmed by the lag in the timing of stock price responses. This untimely market response suggests the equity market was not aware of Countrywide's risk exposures until shortly before the company's solvency crisis. Third, the compensation practices of Countrywide encouraged and rewarded management for exposing the firm to significant risks.

Practical implications

– This paper provides insights into financial management that are relevant for researchers and professionals.

Originality/value

– This paper provides insights for researchers and practitioners relating to the impact of asset securitization on business risk and how these business activities and risks are disclosed in the financial reports.
Changes in organizational patterns of the Eurobond market: an historical analysis
Authors: Sfez Flora
Published: January 2014

Purpose

– Financial intermediaries have contributed to the growing complexity of transactions and to an emerging relational network within markets. This article considers the Eurobond market as an organization in which members adopt rationalities along with diversified and evolving courses of action. The purpose of this paper is to mobilize both historical analysis and organizational theories to show what history can bring to organizational theories using a specific financial market as a case study.

Design/methodology/approach

– The author used a methodology based on historical events and on a long-run analysis of practices. Professional sources, academic research and databases allow the author to follow an abductive approach. Observations set out of this double perspective are confronted with the conceptual frames of organizational theories.

Findings

– During the creation and organization stage, the Eurobond market adopts the pattern of a market organization. Then, it takes the pattern of a firm organization as defined by Coase and Alchian and Demsetz or it is a hybrid pattern as Williamson corpus is concerned. In its last stage of evolution, it reveals as a firm organization for all economic models of organizations.

Originality/value

– The confrontation of an historical methodology with the economic model of organization leads to the conclusion that the Eurobond market cannot be apprehended as an organization market anymore since it has become a firm organization. Traditional regulation of financial markets does not apply since a firm pattern cannot be controlled as a market one.
The teacher efficacy for inclusive practices (TEIP) scale: dimensionality and factor structure
Authors: Park Mi‐Hwa , Dimitrov Dimiter M. , Das Ajay , Gichuru Margaret
Published: January 2014

The Teacher Efficacy for Inclusive Practices (TEIP) scale is designed to measure teacher‐self efficacy to teach in inclusive classrooms. The original study identified three scale factors: efficacy in using inclusive instruction (EII), efficacy in collaboration (EC), and efficacy in managing behavior (EMB) (Sharma et al., 2012). The purpose of our study was to examine the TEIP scale for dimensionality and to cross‐validate its factor structure for pre‐service teachers in the context of early childhood education. A bifactor model fit to the data revealed that the TEIP scale is essentially unidimensional, that is, there is one dominant latent factor and the originally found three scale factors (EII, EC, and EMB) represent specific aspects of the general factor of teacher self‐efficacy to teach in inclusive classrooms. Along with providing validation evidence, these findings have important implications for the scoring on the TEIP scale using classical test analysis or unidimensional item response theory models.
Application of Different Molecular Techniques for Characterization of Catalase‐Positive Cocci Isolated from Sucuk
Authors: Kesmen Zülal , Yarimcam Burcu , Aslan Hakiye , Ozbekar Esra , Yetim Hasan
Published: January 2014

This study was carried out for the characterization and discrimination of the indigenous Gram positive, catalase‐positive cocci (GCC) population in sucuk, a traditional Turkish dry‐fermented sausage. Sucuk samples, produced by the traditional method without starter culture were collected from 8 local producers in Kayseri/Turkey and a total of 116 GCC isolates were identified by using different molecular techniques. Two different molecular fingerprinting methods; namely, randomly amplified polymorphic DNA‐PCR (RAPD‐PCR) and repetitive extragenic palindrome‐PCR (rep‐PCR), were used for the clustering of isolates and identification at species level was carried out by full length sequencing of 16S rDNA. Combining the results obtained from molecular fingerprinting and 16S rDNA sequencing showed that the dominant GCC species isolated from the sucuk samples was Staphylococcus saprophyticus followed by Staphylococcus succinus and Staphylococcus equorum belonging to the Staphylococcus genus. Real‐time PCR DNA melting curve analysis and high‐resolution melting (HRM) analysis targeting the V1 + V3 regions of 16S rDNA were also applied for the discrimination of isolates belonging to different species. It was observed statistically different Tm values and species‐specific HRM profiles for all except 2 species (S. saprophyticus and Staphylococcus xylosus) that have high 16S rDNA sequence similarity. The combination of rep‐PCR and/or PCR‐RAPD with 16S rRNA gene sequencing was an efficient approach for the characterization and identification of the GCC population in spontaneously fermented sucuk. On the other hand, intercalating dye assays were found to be a simple and very promising technique for the differentiation of the GCC population at species level.
Decisions to withhold or withdraw life‐sustaining treatment in a Norwegian intensive care unit
Authors: HOEL H. , SKJAKER S. A. , HAAGENSEN R. , STAVEM K.
Published: January 2014

Background

To withhold and withdraw treatment are important and difficult decisions made in the intensive care unit (ICU). The aim of this study was to investigate the incidence of withholding or withdrawing treatment, characteristics of the patients, and how these decision processes were handled and documented in a general ICU from 2007 to 2009 in a university hospital in Norway.

Methods

Patient characteristics and outcomes of treatment were prospectively registered. We retrospectively reviewed the medical records for information on limitations in treatment.

Results

In total, 1287 patients were admitted to the ICU. The ICU mortality was 208 (16%), and the hospital mortality was 341 (26%). In total, 301 patients (23%) had treatment withheld or withdrawn. Medical and unscheduled surgical patients with limitations in treatment had higher Simplified Acute Physiology Score II (P < 0.001) and were older (P < 0.001) than those without limitations in treatment. The most common main reason for withdrawing treatment was poor prognosis. According to the medical records, the patient was involved in the decision‐making regarding withdrawal of treatment in only 2% of the cases, and the patient's relatives were involved in the decision‐making in 77% of the cases. In 12% of the cases, type of treatment withdrawn was not documented.

Conclusion

Withholding or withdrawing treatment in the ICU was common. Medical and unscheduled surgical patients with limitations in treatment were older and more severely ill than patients without limitations. There is a potential for better documentation of the processes regarding withholding or withdrawing life‐sustaining intensive care treatment.
Distribution of Immune Cells in the Human Cervix and Implications for HIV Transmission
Authors: Trifonova Radiana T. , Lieberman Judy , van Baarle Debbie
Published: January 2014

Problem

Knowledge of the mucosal immune cell composition of the human female genital tract is important for understanding susceptibility to HIV‐1.

Method of study

We developed an optimized procedure for multicolor flow cytometry analysis of immune cells from human cervix to characterize all major immune cell subsets in the endocervix and ectocervix.

Results

Half of tissue hematopoietic cells were CD14+, many of which were macrophages and about a third were CD11c+, most of which were CD103− CD11b+ CX3CR1+ DC‐SIGN+ dendritic cells (DCs). The other dominant population were T cells, with more CD8 than CD4 cells. T cells (both CD8 and CD4) and B cells were more abundant in the ectocervix than endocervix of pre‐menopausal women; however, CD8+ T cell and B cell numbers declined in the ectocervix after menopause, while CD4 T cell counts remained higher. B, NK and conventional myeloid and plasmocytoid DCs each were a few percent of tissue hematopoietic cells. Although the ectocervix had more HIV‐susceptible CD4+ T cells, polarized endocervical explants supported HIV replication significantly better.

Conclusion

Due to their abundance in the genital tract, CX3CR1+ DC‐SIGN+ DCs might be important in HIV transmission. Our data also suggest that the columnar epithelium of the upper genital tract might be a preferential site for HIV transmission.
Apatite‐Coated Collagen Sponge for the Delivery of Bone Morphogenetic Protein‐2 in Rabbit Posterolateral Lumbar Fusion
Authors: Koo Ki Hyoung , Ahn Jung Min , Lee Jong Min , Kim Byung‐Soo , Kim Chang‐Sung , Im Gun‐Il
Published: January 2014

Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) need an effective delivery system for efficient bone regeneration. In this study, we evaluated the efficiency of an apatite‐coated collagen sponge for the long‐term delivery of BMP‐2 in a rabbit model of lumbar posterolateral fusion. A total of 15 rabbits, divided into three groups, underwent posterolateral lumbar fusion. The first group (control group) received uncoated collagen sponges without BMP‐2. The second group (uncoated group) received uncoated collagen sponges with BMP‐2 (40 μg each side). The third group (apatite‐coated group) received apatite‐coated collagen sponges with the same level of BMPs (40 μg each side). All rabbits were euthanized 6 weeks after operation, and the fusion status was assessed by radiographic study, micro‐CT, manual palpation, biomechanical study, and histological examination. Fusion rates as determined by radiographic study, micro‐CT, and manual palpation showed that the apatite‐coated group had a significantly higher rate of fusion than the control group (P = 0.024), while the uncoated group did not (P = 0.083). Biomechanical study showed significantly higher tensile strength in the apatite‐coated group than the uncoated group (P = 0.032). Denser trabeculations were found in the apatite‐coated group compared with the uncoated group. It is concluded that the use of apatite‐coated collagen sponges for BMP‐2 delivery enhanced bone regeneration.
Synchronized Pulsatile Speed Control of Turbodynamic Left Ventricular Assist Devices: Review and Prospects
Authors: Amacher Raffael , Ochsner Gregor , Schmid Daners Marianne
Published: January 2014

Turbodynamic blood pumps are used clinically as ventricular assist devices (VADs). They are mostly operated at a constant rotational speed, which results in a reduced pulsatility. Previous research has analyzed pulsing pump speeds (speed modulation) to alter the interaction between the cardiovascular system and the blood pump. In those studies, sine‐ or square‐wave speed profiles that were synchronized to the natural cardiac cycle were analyzed in silico, in vitro and in vivo. The definitions of these profiles with respect to both timing and speed levels vary among different research groups. The current paper provides a definition of the timing of these speed profiles such that the resulting hemodynamic effects become comparable. The results published in the literature are summarized and compared using this definition. Further, applied to a turbodynamic VAD, a series of measurements is conducted on a hybrid mock circulation using a constant speed as well as different types of square‐wave speed profiles and a sine‐wave speed profile. When a consistent definition of the timing of the speed profiles is used, the hemodynamic effects observed in previous work are in agreement with the measurement data obtained for the current paper. These findings allow the conclusion that the speed modulation of turbodynamic VADs represents a consistent tool to systematically change the ventricular load and the pulsatility in the arterial tree. The timing that yields the minimal left ventricular load also yields the minimal arterial pulse pressure.
The Impact of Victimization and Witnessing Violence on Physical Aggression Among High‐Risk Adolescents
Authors: Farrell Albert D. , Mehari Krista R. , Kramer‐Kuhn Alison , Goncy Elizabeth A.
Published: January 2014

Relations among witnessing violence, victimization, and physical aggression were investigated within a high‐risk sample of 1,156 sixth graders. Longitudinal, multilevel analyses were conducted on two waves of data from two cohorts of students in 37 schools from four communities. The sample was 65% male and 67% African American. Neighborhood concentrated disadvantage, witnessing violence, victimization, and physical aggression were strongly and positively correlated at the school level. Contrary to hypothesis, exposure to violence did not mediate the effects of neighborhood concentrated disadvantage on changes in physical aggression. As expected, witnessing violence and physical aggression had bidirectional longitudinal effects on each other at the student level. In contrast, there were no cross‐variable relations between changes in violent victimization and aggression over time.
Moderate hemoptysis: recurrent hemoptysis and mortality according to bronchial artery embolization
Authors: Lee Myoung Kyu , Kim Sang‐Ha , Yong Suk Joong , Shin Kye Chul , Kim Hyun Sik , Yu Tae‐Sun , Choi Eun Hee , Lee Won‐Yeon
Published: January 2014

Introduction

The studies on hemoptysis have focused mainly on hemoptysis causes and massive or life‐threatening hemoptysis. And there is a limited data that non‐massive hemoptysis, especially moderate hemoptysis.

Objectives

We analyzed the prognosis and severity of bleeding on flexible bronchoscopy (FB) between moderate and massive hemoptysis.

Methods

We reviewed total 852 subjects (59.9 ± 16.0 years) identified with hemoptysis. Reviewed database included severity of subjective hemoptysis, bleeding on FB, comorbid conditions, time from admission to bronchial artery embolization (BAE), recurrent hemoptysis and mortality.

Results

In subjective hemoptysis, recurrent hemoptysis occurred in mild 8.0%, moderate 40.7%, massive hemoptysis 33.8%, and mortality was 4.7%, 13.4% and 13.5%. Especially, no statistical difference was shown in recurrent hemoptysis [hazard ratio (HR) = 0.795; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.562–1.125, P = 0.196] and mortality (HR = 1.054; 95% CI 0.596–1.864, P = 0.856) between moderate and massive hemoptysis. In moderate hemoptysis patients, oozing or active bleeding on FB took up 83.3%. In this review, recurrent hemoptysis was more in oozing bleeding than active bleeding (HR = 1.781; 95% CI 1.214–2.431, P = 0.002), but mortality was similar (HR = 1.611; 95% CI 0.930–2.790, P = 0.089). Recurrent hemoptysis significantly decreased in the group with BAE performed within 24 h (HR = 0.308; 95% CI 0.149–0.637, P = 0.001) in moderate hemoptysis. Also, recurrent hemoptysis and mortality were significantly increased in the patients with smoking (≥40 pack‐years), oozing or active bleeding on FB, and hypertension.

Conclusion

Moderate hemoptysis has shown similar prognosis of recurrent hemoptysis and mortality to massive hemoptysis. Therefore, the more aggressive FB and BAE should be considered in moderate hemoptysis.