bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Political and economic determinants of free trade agreements
Authors: Gu ZhenHua , Shen Yao
Published: November 2014

Purpose

– Will a free trade agreement (FTA) between nations be politically viable? Under political lobbying, which incentives determine whether FTAs will be signed or not? Will FTAs steadily include more countries until we reach a worldwide free trade? The paper addresses these questions using a theoretical analysis model, with “protection for sale” model as the foundation.

Design/methodology/approach

– Firstly, the economic and political factors are investigated in the theoretical model. Then, the validity of results is tested by econometric analysis with a panel probit model. The data spans 25 key trade nations and covers the period of 2007, 2010 and 2013.

Findings

– First, the FTA will be endorsed only if the aggregate welfare under FTA, combing lobby contributions with social welfare of both pair nations, is higher than the counterpart without FTA. Otherwise, FTA is rejected. Second, the possibility of concluding a FTA has positive correlation with pair nations’ market sizes and the number of countries with which they have both previously concluded FTAs; the possibility has negative correlation with the distance between pair nations; if pair nations’ aggregate market sizes are large enough, the possibility has positive correlation with government’s sensitivity to social welfare, otherwise the correlation is negative. Third, although FTAs are characterized by the regionalism, they will contribute to multilateral free trade in the long run.

Originality/value

– Most researchers do not take the foreign lobbying into account in the manner or the detail that we do here when they study the determinants of FTAs. This paper shows the condition under which FTA is politically viable and incentives behind FTA.
The effect of technology on learning democracy
Authors: Lauridsen Else
Published: November 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to discuss how the use of information technology in schools can influence students’ democratic comprehension.

Design/methodology/approach

– First, two different ideas of democracy are introduced and how these ideas are linked to cognitivistic and social constructivistic learning theories, respectively, is illustrated. Next, a case study is described, where Engeström’s mediational triangle is used for analysing how the use of interactive whiteboards (IWB) influences the teaching of democracy in a fifth-grade school class.

Findings

– The paper lists a set of preconditions and recommendations for a use of IWB as support for students’ experience of democracy as a way of living.

Research limitations/implications

– As the paper focuses on research design and development of didactical designs, future research and articles can further study the effects of the didactical designs and the democratic comprehension supported hereby. The paper is set in a Danish school context.

Practical implications

– It is argued that the IWB can be used as support for developing the students’ democratic comprehension by focusing on and, if necessary, changing the elements of the activity system, e.g. the rules and the roles concerning the use of the IWB.

Originality/value

– The paper’s linkage of democratic ideas, learning theory and information technology is relevant for researchers. Teachers can use the paper, as it offers didactical principles for using information technology as support for students’ democratic comprehension.
Business to business digital content marketing: marketers’ perceptions of best practice
Authors: Holliman Geraint , Rowley Jennifer
Published: November 2014

Purpose

– This paper aims to draw attention to the emerging phenomenon of business to business (B2B) digital content marketing, offers a range of insights and reflections on good practice and contributes to theoretical understanding of the role of digital content in marketing. B2B digital content marketing is an inbound marketing technique and hence offers a solution to the declining effectiveness of traditional interruptive marketing techniques.

Design/methodology/approach

– Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 15 key informants involved in B2B content marketing in the USA, UK and France, in five industry sectors.

Findings

– B2B digital content marketing is an inbound marketing technique, effected through web page, social media and value-add content, and is perceived to be a useful tool for achieving and sustaining trusted brand status. Creating content that is valuable to B2B audiences requires brands to take a “publishing” approach, which involves developing an understanding of the audience’s information needs, and their purchase consideration cycle. Valuable content is described as being useful, relevant, compelling and timely. Content marketing requires a cultural change from “selling” to “helping”, which in turn requires different marketing objectives, tactics, metrics and skills to those associated with more traditional marketing approaches. The article concludes with a theoretical discussion on the role of digital content in marketing, thereby contextualising the findings from this study within a broader exploration of the role of digital content in marketing and relational exchanges.

Originality/value

– As the first research study to explore the use of digital content marketing in B2B contexts, this research positions digital content marketing with regard to prior theory, and provides both an agenda for further research, and suggestions for practice.
Determinants of software exports during global economic slowdown
Authors: Hassan Malik Manzoor , Hassan Malik Showkat
Published: November 2014

Purpose

– The aims of this paper are twofold. First, the trends and patterns in key variables of performance of sample software companies during the study period are overviewed. Second, the determinants of information technology (IT) export across the sample companies during the period of economic slowdown have been analyzed.

Design/methodology/approach

– Secondary data have been used in the study. Regression analysis is concerned with the study of the dependence of one variable, the dependent variable, on one or more other variables, the explanatory variables, with a view to estimating and/or predicting the mean or average value of the former in terms of the known or fixed values of the latter. The data collected through survey were scrutinized, and statistical software were used for analysis. The variables documented in the study include the exports, capacity utilization, profits, exchange rate and dummy for recession, dummy for countries of export.

Findings

– The Indian IT sector was set for smaller growth due to global economic slowdown. Large IT service players were able to some extent cope with tighter client spends, but it was smaller IT companies which were facing the severe heat. Production of sample companies decreased at an average of 34 per cent in 2008. The profits of the sample companies have decreased by 34.34 and 78.67 per cent, respectively, during 2008. In case of determinants of software exports, it is observed that capacity utilization is positively related to exports. The estimated mean of exports increases by about 1.370.

Originality/value

– This paper focuses on originality in the sphere of scientific work. Secondary data have been used in the study. The data were collected from the Annual Reports of four randomly selected software companies. Both face-to-face interview and on-line survey based on a structured questionnaire to the sample companies were used to collect the data. All the work has been done in original by the authors and the work used has been acknowledged properly.
Planning for sustainable development in the emerging information societies
Authors: Taghavi Mona , Bakhtiyari Kaveh , Taghavi Hamed , Olyaee Attar Vahhab , Hussain Aini
Published: November 2014

Purpose

– This research work aims to investigate the recent status of the information and communication technology (ICT) services industry in Iran. It proposes a systemic applicable approach at policymaking level and appropriate strategic planning steps to enlighten developing countries toward achieving their target objectives of an information society.

Design/methodology/approach

– Largely based on existing literature and usage statistics in ICT services, global technology trends and results from a survey to obtain consistent and up-to-date information about current issues of ICT services in the public and private sectors in Iran.

Findings

– This study elaborates on all issues, points and best practices relevant to the ICT services industry in Iran which is addressed by recommending some documented policies.

Research limitations/implications

– Majority of the experts who attended the workshop and responded to the questionnaire were service consumers rather than service providers.

Practical implications

– This paper discusses some of the implications for the development of this ICT services strategy and provides policy recommendations.

Social implications

– To enhance the information society with the most advanced ICT services for accelerating human development.

Originality/value

– This study provides a government refining process policy to address the common gaps in the ICT services industry in these developing countries and emphasizes a formidable policy foundation before implementing and monitoring of the Flagship ICT projects.
Developing a model for examining the effect of tacit and explicit knowledge sharing on organizational performance based on EFQM approach
Authors: Mohsen Allameh Sayyed , Khazaei Pool Javad , Jaberi Akbar , Mazloomi Soveini Farzaneh
Published: November 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of the current study was to examine the influence of knowledge sharing on organizational performance in sport organizations.

Design/methodology/approach

– A sample of sport managers in Iran completed a survey designed to identify and measure this relationship. The research sample was obtained through snowball sampling. A theoretical model was developed and tested based on literature review. SPSS18 and AMOS20 were applied to data analysis.

Findings

– Utilizing structural equation modeling, the findings support the premise that knowledge sharing is significantly effective on organizational performance.

Practical implications

– Relevant implications are provided for management as to how to improve sport organizational performance.

Originality/value

– Knowledge sharing and performance has been well researched in large and small business enterprises. However, limited research in sport organizations with the European Foundation for Quality Management approach exists. This paper provides valuable insight into the measurement of knowledge sharing and performance in the sport organizations and offers a foundation for future organizational research.
How the new generation of video game consoles have accelerated the need to preserve digital content – part 1
Authors: Cassidy Ryan , McEniry Matthew
Published: November 2014

Purpose

– This two-part study aims to expose the challenges and establish the necessity of preserving digital content, with a focus on console video games.

Design/methodology/approach

– Through a method of establishing the history of video game consoles, identifying the challenges presented by the format and addressing the current preservation efforts, this article serves as a brief retrospective of the issues and a guide to extending the conversation.

Findings

– Representing a unique format, heavily reliant on advances in technological and industrial standards, console video games have experienced a demonstrated lack of preservation.

Originality/value

– With special attention to the non-gamer, this is an introduction to the conversation and an invitation to lend expertise to not only an often overlooked area of popular culture, which is facing (and in some cases, has experienced) irretrievable loss of information, but also to other formats facing adjustment to the digital, always-online environment.
ARLG in Brighton, UK 2014. Academic libraries: the final frontier
Authors: Anderson Suzanne
Published: November 2014

Purpose

– This paper aims to give an overview of the Academic Research Library Group Study Conference hosted by the University of Sussex, in Brighton from the 23rd-25th of June 2014.

Design/methodology/approach

– A narrative approach was used to describe events.

Findings

– This was an exciting and action-packed conference that discussed topics surrounding the future of academic libraries. There were several networking opportunities, workshops and an exhibition of sponsors.

Originality/value

– This report outlines the events of the conference and looks at the themes and issues surrounding the future of research libraries.
The development of recovery based nursing in a high-security hospital: nurturance and safe spaces in a dangerous world?
Authors: Chandley Mark , Cromar-Hayes Maxine , Mercer Dave , Clancy Bridget , Wilkie Iain , Thorpe Gary
Published: November 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to derive from an on-going, innovative, project to explore the concept, and application, of “recovery” in the care and clinical management of patients detained in one UK high-security hospital.

Design/methodology/approach

– Utilising a qualitative, action research, methodology the aim was to involve forensic mental health nurses in a collaborative, client-centred approach to identification and resolution of dilemmas in the process of planning care for offender-patients.

Findings

– In this context the authors identify constraints and contradictions involved in employing recovery principles in institutions critics refer to as part of the disciplinary apparatus of psychiatric and social control; where the taken for granted lives, and relations, of an incarcerated population are measured by the calendar, not the clock.

Research limitations/implications

– Protective practices remain highly relevant in high-secure practice. Safety, an important value for all can by and large be achieved through recovery approaches. The humanistic elements of recovery can offer up safe and useful methods of deploying the mental health nurse on the ward. Many nurses have the prerequisite approach but there remains a wide scope to enhance those skills. Many see the approach as axiomatic though nurse education often prepares nurses with a biomedical view of the ward.

Practical implications

– Currently, philosophical tenets of recovery are enshrined in contemporary health policy and professional directives but, as yet, have not been translated into high-secure settings. Drawing on preliminary findings, attention is given to the value of socially situated approaches in challenging historic dominance of a medical model.

Social implications

– It is concluded that recovery could be a forerunner of reforms necessary for the continued relevance of high-secure care into the twenty-first century.

Originality/value

– This research is located in high-secure setting. The social situation is marked by the extent of the isolation involved. A value is in this situation. First it is akin to the isolation of the tribe utilised by many anthropologists for their ability to adopt the “social laboratory” status to test out theories of behaviour in industrial society. The authors urge others to utilise this research in this way. Second, the situation represents the locus of so many of societies dilemmas, paradoxes and fears that moral issues morph from what is the mundane in wider society. In this way humanistic approaches are tested via action research with nurses in some rigouous ways.
Prosper: a social movement approach to mental health
Authors: Barrett Daniel , Benson Janette , Foster Rhiannon , Leader Alan
Published: November 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to describe the conceptual basis and development of Prosper: an emerging and evolving self-directed network and movement for people with lived experience of mental health problems in South West London.

Design/methodology/approach

– The conceptual principles from which Prosper emerged – co-production, recovery and social movement approaches – are outlined. The ways in which these ideas were translated into action, the guiding principles and operation of Prosper are then described.

Findings

– An evolving self-directed network and movement has been developed that comprises around 150 “members” and a wider network of 20 service user groups across South West London. As well as open forums, collective actions fall under the themes of “create” (peer support, outreach, campaigns, training) and “collaborate” (partnership working with user-led organisations and a Recovery College, peer support networks, supporting the development of personal health budgets and local commissioning, and consultancy). This network has initially been funded by South West London and St George's Mental Health Trust with a view to it becoming an independent entity.

Originality/value

– The innovative and evolving social network and movement for people with lived experience of mental health problems that is continuously influenced and changed by the skills, ideas and energy of its growing and developing membership could act as a useful model for others to follow.
The challenges of research on new ways to support recovery
Authors: Holttum Sue
Published: November 2014

Purpose

– The randomised controlled trial, though highly valued, has been criticised as not helping to understand how results occur: Real-life complexity is not captured, i.e. what actually happens at trial sites (rather than what was intended). The purpose of this paper is to summarise and comment on two 2014 research papers addressing this challenge of randomised trials – concerning new therapeutic approaches for people diagnosed with psychotic disorders.

Design/methodology/approach

– One paper is about what staff thought when adopting a new recovery-focused approach in two mental health services as part of a randomised trial. The other is the plan for a small pilot trial of a new treatment for psychosis called positive psychotherapy. It describes how the researchers planned to study the detail of what happens in their small trial, to help them improve the design of a future, larger trial.

Findings

– The first paper recommends avoiding services undergoing too many changes and ensuring managers will visibly support the project. When training staff in a new approach, trainers should recognise staff's existing knowledge and skills and use practical methods like role-play. In the second paper, the plan for the small positive psychotherapy trial seems detailed enough to explain what really happens, except in one area: looking at how clinicians actually select service users for the trial.

Originality/value

– These papers concern pioneering therapeutic approaches in psychosis. With randomised trials highly influential, both these papers recognise their potential problems, and seem to represent good attempts to understand what really happens.
Journeys to work: the perspective of client and employment specialist of “Individual Placement and Support” in action
Authors: Miller Lynne , Clinton-Davis Suzanne , Meegan Tina
Published: November 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to provide the personal accounts of the journey back to work from the perspective of both the person entering employment and the Employment Specialist who assisted them.

Design/methodology/approach

– Two people with mental health problems who received help into employment from an employment service in a London Mental Health Trust were asked to give write their accounts of their journey. The Employment Specialists who assisted them in this journey were also asked to write their accounts.

Findings

– Reflective accounts – no findings presented.

Originality/value

– Much has been written about the effectiveness of Individual Placement and Support evidence-based supported employment, but little has been published about the lived experience of this approach from the perspective of both the person endeavouring to return to work and the employment specialists who support them. This paper presents two such accounts.
Relocation of older people to recovery phase rehabilitation wards: adaptation patterns according to the presence of dementia
Authors: Komatsu Misa , Hamahata Akiko
Published: November 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to use an assessment sheet clarifying the characteristics related to adaptation in order to support the relocation of older people to recovery phase rehabilitation wards (RPRW).

Design/methodology/approach

– A survey was conducted with older people aged 70 and above two weeks after relocation. Nurses responsible for the older people were asked to complete the sheet. Of the 44 items on the sheet, the 38 items not directly related to basic attributes constituted the scale of the state of adaptation. A total of 336 valid response sheets were analyzed.

Findings

– Higher scores on the scale represented higher levels of adaptation, and when scores were analyzed, results showed that there was a tendency for the scores of older people aged 80 and above and older people with dementia to be significantly lower. Items that showed differences according to the presence of dementia included those showing adaptive tasks, such as “Condition has deteriorated since the time of relocation” and “Experiencing difficulties when nurses are giving care.” The tendencies of older people to adapt to relocation depending on the presence of dementia were clarified through the items on the scale.

Originality/value

– It is necessary to pay attention to older people's physical and social environmental factors, adaptive tasks, and coping skills when they relocate to RPRW. The authors suggest that an approach based on the results of this study could help older people adapt to their new environment.
Color Change of the Snapper (Pagrus auratus) and Gurnard (Chelidonichthys kumu) Skin and Eyes during Storage: Effect of Light Polarization and Contact with Ice
Authors: Balaban Murat O. , Stewart Kelsie , Fletcher Graham C. , Alçiçek Zayde
Published: November 2014

Ten gurnard and 10 snapper were stored on ice. One side always contacted the ice; the other side was always exposed to air. At different intervals for up to 12 d, the fish were placed in a light box, and the images of both sides were taken using polarized and nonpolarized illumination. Image analysis resulted in average L*, a*, and b* values of skin, and average L* values of the eyes. The skin L* value of gurnard changed significantly over time while that of snapper was substantially constant. The a* and b* values of both fish decreased over time. The L* values of eyes were significantly lower for polarized images, and significantly lower for the side of fish exposed to air only. This may be a concern in quality evaluation methods such as QIM. The difference of colors between the polarized and nonpolarized images was calculated to quantify the reflection off the surface of fish. For accurate measurement of surface color and eye color, use of polarized light is recommended.
Lipopolysaccharide amplifies eosinophilic inflammation after segmental challenge with house dust mite in asthmatics
Authors: Berger M. , de Boer J. D. , Bresser P. , van der Poll T. , Lutter R. , Sterk P. J. , van der Zee J. S.
Published: November 2014

Background

House dust contains mite allergens as well as bacterial products such as lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Asthma exacerbations are associated with the level of exposure to allergens and LPS. LPS can potentiate allergen effects in steroid‐naïve patients. Long‐acting β2‐agonists (LABA) were shown to inhibit LPS‐induced bronchial inflammation in healthy volunteers. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of LPS on the allergen‐induced eosinophilic inflammation [primary endpoints: eosinophil counts and eosinophil cationic protein (ECP)] induced by bronchial instillation of house dust mite (HDM) in patients with asthma on maintenance treatment with inhaled corticosteroids (ICS).

Methods

Thirty‐two nonsmoking asthmatics with HDM allergy were treated with run‐in medication (fluticasone propionate 100 μg bid) during 2 weeks before the study day. All patients underwent bronchial challenge with HDM, and half of them were randomized to receive additional LPS. Both groups were randomized to receive pretreatment with a single inhalation of 100 μg salmeterol 30 min before bronchial segmental challenge. Six hours later, bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) was collected for leukocyte cell count, differentials, and cellular activation markers.

Results

Challenge with HDM/LPS induced a significant increase in eosinophil cationic protein (P = 0.036) and a trend toward an increase in BALF eosinophils as compared to HDM challenge.

Conclusion

Lipopolysaccharide promotes eosinophilic airway inflammation in patients with asthma despite being on maintenance treatment with ICS.
Transient hyperoxia does not affect regional cerebral tissue oxygen saturation in moderately preterm or term newborns
Authors: Thing Mira , Sørensen Line Carøe , Pryds Ole
Published: November 2014

Aim

Even short periods of hyperoxia may induce prolonged cerebral vasoconstriction in newborn infants, and this could theoretically lead to cerebral ischaemia even once normoxia is re‐established. This study aimed to investigate the effect of brief hyperoxic exposures on regional cerebral tissue oxygen saturation (rStO2) and to evaluate whether any observed prolonged cerebral vasoconstriction was related to maturity.

Methods

The study included 30 infants with a postmenstrual age of more than 32 weeks, who were treated with nasal continuous positive airway pressure and a fraction of inspired oxygen of ≤0.3. The INVOS 5100C oximeter was used to measure rStO2 before, during and after two hyperoxic exposures. If hyperoxia induced a prolonged cerebral vasoconstriction, posthyperoxic rStO2 would be expected to decrease.

Results

rStO2 increased slightly after the first hyperoxic exposure, with a mean difference of 1.37% (95% CI 0.15, 2.6). After the second oxygen exposure, rStO2 remained unchanged with a mean difference of −0.4% (95% CI −1.6, 0.78). Differences in rStO2 were not related to gestational age in either of the two hyperoxic episodes.

Conclusion

We found no evidence to support the theory that transient hyperoxia induces prolonged cerebral vasoconstriction in infants with a postmenstrual age above 32 weeks.
Hypercoagulability following major partial liver resection ‐ detected by thrombomodulin‐modified thrombin generation testing
Authors: Potze W. , Alkozai E. M. , Adelmeijer J. , Porte R. J. , Lisman T.
Published: November 2014

Background

Conventional coagulation tests are frequently prolonged after liver surgery, suggesting a post‐operative hypocoagulability. However, these tests are unreliable for assessment of the haemostatic status in these patients. In contrast, thrombin generation testing measures the true balance between pro‐ and anti‐coagulant factors.

Aim

To study the perioperative coagulation status in patients undergoing hemi‐hepatectomy using thrombin generation assays.

Methods

We examined thrombin generation profiles in serial plasma samples taken from seventeen patients undergoing right hemi‐hepatectomy. Results were compared to ten patients undergoing pancreatic resection and twenty‐four healthy volunteers. In addition, we measured conventional coagulation tests and plasma levels of several haemostatic proteins.

Results

Following liver resection, the endogenous thrombin potential (ETP) slightly decreased until post‐operative day 7. However, in the presence of thrombomodulin, the ETP increased [from 542 nM*min (417–694) at baseline to 845 nM*min (789–1050) on post‐operative day 3] to values higher than that in healthy subjects (558 nM*min (390–680); P < 0.001), which contrasts with substantially prolonged PT levels. Normal to decreased thrombin generation was observed following pancreatic resection. Thrombin generation was only slightly affected by thrombomodulin after hemi‐hepatectomy, while thrombin generation in healthy subjects decreased profoundly upon addition of thrombomodulin. This hypercoagulability following liver resection may be explained by decreased levels of protein C, S, and antithrombin and by elevated levels of factor VIII.

Conclusions

Thrombin generation in the presence of thrombomodulin revealed hypercoagulability in patients following liver resection. These results support the recently advocated restrictive use of plasma during liver resection and the exploration of more extensive use of post‐operative thrombosis prophylaxis.
Morphological, ultrastructural and histochemical investigation of epipodial sensory structures of Haliotis tuberculata (Gastropoda: Haliotidae)
Authors: Molist Pilar , Álvarez Nogal Rafael , Collado Gonzalo A.
Published: November 2014

In this study, we describe the microstructure and ultrastructure of the epipodial papillae and epipodial tentacles of Haliotis tuberculata using light and electron microscopy. The epipodial papillae vary morphologically; they are subdivided into several subpapillae whose surface is covered by small micropapillae. The epipodial tentacles are large extendable conically elongated structures whose surface is differentiated in two regions: the dorsal region with long corrugated folds, and a ventral region composed of three parts, a basal part with the same structure as the dorsal, a middle part with shorter corrugated folds and an apical part with large micropapillae. Although the thin sections and ultrastructure examination show that the epithelium of both organs is morphologically similar and composed of supporting cells, sensory cells and different types of secretory cells, there is a certain specialization in their secretory product. Although the epithelium of both structures was positive for acidic glycoconjugates, the tentacle epithelium was also positive for neutral sugars. Further specific differences were revealed by lectin histochemistry. Because papillae and tentacles can be extended or retracted depending on environmental conditions, they probably have tactile and olfactory functions.
Reducing Prescriptions of Long‐Acting Benzodiazepine Drugs in Denmark: A Descriptive Analysis of Nationwide Prescriptions during a 10‐Year Period
Authors: Eriksen Sophie Isabel , Bjerrum Lars
Published: November 2014

Prolonged consumption of benzodiazepine drugs (BZD) and benzodiazepine receptor agonists (zolpidem, zaleplon, zopiclone; altogether Z drugs) is related to potential physiological and psychological dependence along with other adverse effects. This study aimed to analyse the prescribing of long‐acting BZD (half‐life >10 hr), compared to short‐acting BZD in Denmark during a 10‐year period. Descriptive analysis of total sales data from the Danish Register of Medicinal Product Statistics, to individuals in the primary healthcare sector, of all BZD and Z drugs in the period of 2003–2013. Prescription data derive from all community and hospital pharmacies in Denmark. The prescribing of long‐acting BZD was reduced from 25.8 defined daily doses (DDD)/1000 inhabitants/day in 2003 to 8.8 DDD/1000 inhabitants/day in 2013, a relative reduction of 66%. The prescribing of short‐acting BZD was reduced from 26.1 DDD/1000 inhabitants/day in 2003 to 16.4 DDD/1000 inhabitants/day in 2013, a relative reduction of 37%. Prescription data in this study did not include information about indications for initiating treatments. In addition, due to compliance problems, some of the prescribed drugs may not have been consumed according to the prescription. The observed reduction in BZD use was correlated to the introduction of new national guidelines on prescription of addictive drugs, but this study was not designed to detect a causal relationship. The prescribing of long‐acting BZD decreased considerably more than the prescribing of short‐acting BZD in the 10‐year period.
The psychological disengagement model among women in science, engineering, and technology
Authors: Beaton Ann M. , Tougas Francine , Rinfret Natalie , Monger Tanya
Published: November 2014

Psychological responses to personal relative deprivation based on self/outgroup comparisons (named self/outgroup PRD) were explored among women in science, engineering, and technology according to the Psychological Disengagement Model. Three studies revealed that the experience of self/outgroup PRD increased women's likelihood of discounting the feedback they received at work. In turn, discounting led them to devalue their profession. Each study further documented the damaging effect of both psychological disengagement mechanisms. Study 1 (N = 93) revealed that discounting and devaluing were associated with decreased self‐esteem. These results were replicated in Studies 2 and 3. Study 2 (N = 163) demonstrated that discounting and devaluing were also associated with reduced self‐esteem stability. Study 3 (N = 187) further showed that psychological disengagement was also associated with women's occupational commitment. Theoretical and practical implications of these results are considered.
Prediction of cancer‐specific survival after radical cystectomy in pT4a urothelial carcinoma of the bladder: development of a tool for clinical decision‐making
Authors: Aziz Atiqullah , Shariat Shahrokh F. , Roghmann Florian , Brookman‐May Sabine , Stief Christian G. , Rink Michael , Chun Felix K. , Fisch Margit , Novotny Vladimir , Froehner Michael , Wirth Manfred P. , Schnabel Marco J. , Fritsche Hans‐Martin , Burger Maximilian , Pycha Armin , Brisuda Antonin , Babjuk Marko , Vallo Stefan , Haferkamp Axel , Roigas Jan , Noldus Joachim , Stredele Regina , Volkmer Björn , Bastian Patrick J. , Xylinas Evanguelos , May Matthias
Published: November 2014

Objective

To externally validate the pT4a‐specific risk model for cancer‐specific survival (CSS) proposed by May et al. (Urol Oncol 2013; 31: 1141–1147) and to develop a new pT4a‐specific nomogram predicting CSS in an international multicentre cohort of patients undergoing radical cystectomy (RC) for urothelial carcinoma of the bladder (UCB)

Patients and Methods

Data from 856 patients with pT4a UCB treated with RC at 21 centres in Europe and North‐America were assessed.

The risk model proposed by May et al., which includes female gender, presence of positive lymphovascular invasion (LVI) and lack of adjuvant chemotherapy administration as adverse predictors for CSS, was applied to our cohort.

For the purpose of external validation, model discrimination was measured using the receiver‐operating characteristic‐derived area under the curve.

A nomogram for predicting CSS in pT4a UCB after RC was developed after internal validation based on multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression analysis evaluating the impact of clinicopathological variables on CSS.

Decision‐curve analyses were applied to determine the net benefit derived from the two models.

Results

The estimated 5‐year‐CSS after RC was 34% in our cohort.

The risk model devised by May et al. predicted individual 5‐year‐CSS with an accuracy of 60.1%.

In multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression analysis, female gender (hazard ratio [HR] 1.45), LVI (HR 1.37), lymph node metastases (HR 2.54), positive soft tissue surgical margins (HR 1.39), neoadjuvant (HR 2.24) and lack of adjuvant chemotherapy (HR 1.67, all P < 0.05) were independent predictors of an adverse CSS rate and formed the features of our nomogram with a predictive accuracy of 67.1%.

Decision‐curve analyses showed higher net benefits for the use of the newly developed nomogram in our cohort over all thresholds.

Conclusions

The risk model devised by May et al. was validated with moderate discrimination and was outperformed by our newly developed pT4a‐specific nomogram in the present study population.

Our nomogram might be particularly suitable for postoperative patient counselling in the heterogeneous cohort of patients with pT4a UCB.
A novel interface for the telementoring of robotic surgery
Authors: Shin Daniel H. , Dalag Leonard , Azhar Raed A. , Santomauro Michael , Satkunasivam Raj , Metcalfe Charles , Dunn Matthew , Berger Andre , Djaladat Hooman , Nguyen Mike , Desai Mihir M. , Aron Monish , Gill Inderbir S. , Hung Andrew J.
Published: November 2014

Objective

To prospectively evaluate the feasibility and safety of a novel, second‐generation telementoring interface (Connect™; Intuitive Surgical Inc., Sunnyvale, CA, USA) for the da Vinci robot.

Materials and Methods

Robotic surgery trainees were mentored during portions of robot‐assisted prostatectomy and renal surgery cases. Cases were assigned as traditional in‐room mentoring or remote mentoring using Connect. While viewing two‐dimensional, real‐time video of the surgical field, remote mentors delivered verbal and visual counsel, using two‐way audio and telestration (drawing) capabilities. Perioperative and technical data were recorded. Trainee robotic performance was rated using a validated assessment tool by both mentors and trainees. The mentoring interface was rated using a multi‐factorial Likert‐based survey. The Mann–Whitney and t‐tests were used to determine statistical differences.

Results

We enrolled 55 mentored surgical cases (29 in‐room, 26 remote). Perioperative variables of operative time and blood loss were similar between in‐room and remote mentored cases. Robotic skills assessment showed no significant difference (P > 0.05). Mentors preferred remote over in‐room telestration (P = 0.05); otherwise no significant difference existed in evaluation of the interfaces. Remote cases using wired (vs wireless) connections had lower latency and better data transfer (P = 0.005). Three of 18 (17%) wireless sessions were disrupted; one was converted to wired, one continued after restarting Connect, and the third was aborted. A bipolar injury to the colon occurred during one (3%) in‐room mentored case; no intraoperative injuries were reported during remote sessions.

Conclusion

In a tightly controlled environment, the Connect interface allows trainee robotic surgeons to be telementored in a safe and effective manner while performing basic surgical techniques. Significant steps remain prior to widespread use of this technology.
The relationship between circulating irisin levels and endothelial function in lean and obese subjects
Authors: Hou Ningning , Han Fang , Sun Xiaodong
Published: November 2014

Objective

Irisin has been shown to turn white adipocytes into brown‐like adipocytes, which is emerging as an appealing therapeutic target for obesity. The objective of the study was to determine whether circulating irisin levels are related to endothelial dysfunction in obese subjects.

Design

A total of 41 nonhypertensive, nondiabetic obese subjects and 40 age‐ and sex‐matched lean healthy control were involved in this study. Clinical characteristics, blood biochemistry, circulating irisin and adiponectin of the subjects were measured. Endothelium‐dependent vasodilation (EDV) and endothelial‐independent vasodilation (EIV) were determined using high‐resolution ultrasound.

Results

Circulating irisin and adiponectin were significantly lower in obese subjects compared with lean healthy control (P < 0·05). Endothelial function was impaired in obese subjects (maximum EDV: 8·95 ± 3·46% vs 14·56 ± 3·90%, P < 0·05). Bivariate correlation analysis revealed that circulating irisin was positively correlated with EDV(r = 0·388, P < 0·01) and negatively correlated with BMI (r = −0·281, P < 0·05), waist circumference (r = −0·298, P < 0·01), free fatty acid (FFA) (r = −0·289, P < 0·01), high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein (hs‐CRP) (r = −0·244, P < 0·05) and malondialdehyde (r = −0·258, P < 0·05). Multiple regression analysis revealed that circulating irisin, adiponectin, FFA and BMI were independently associated with EDV after adjusting for covariates (R2 = 0·457, F = 8·766, P = 0·000).

Conclusions

Circulating irisin level was decreased in nonhypertensive, nondiabetic obese subjects compared with lean healthy control. Lower levels of irisin are independently associated with endothelial dysfunction. Therefore, irisin may be involved in the regulation of endothelial function in obesity.
Intrafamilial variability of ZRS‐associated syndrome: characterization of a mosaic ZRS mutation by pyrosequencing
Authors: Vanlerberghe C. , Faivre L. , Petit F. , Fruchart O. , Jourdain A.‐S. , Clavier F. , Gay S. , Manouvrier‐Hanu S. , Escande F.
Published: November 2014

During limb development, the spatio‐temporal expression of sonic hedgehog (SHH) is driven by the Zone of polarizing activity Regulatory Sequence (ZRS), located 1 megabase upstream from SHH. Gain‐of‐function mutations of this enhancer, which cause ectopic expression of SHH, are known to be responsible for congenital limb malformations with variable expressivity, ranging from preaxial polydactyly or triphalangeal thumbs to polysyndactyly, which may also be associated with mesomelic deficiency. In this report, we describe a patient affected with mirror‐image polydactyly of the four extremities and bilateral tibial deficiency. The proband's father had isolated preaxial polydactyly type II (PPD2). Using Sanger sequencing, a ZRS point mutation (NC_000007.14, g.156584153A>G, UCSC, Build hg.19) was only identified in the patient. However, pyrosequencing analysis enabled the detection of a 10% somatic mosaic in the blood and saliva from the father. To our knowledge, this is the first description of a ZRS mosaic mutation. This report highlights the complexity of genotype–phenotype correlation in ZRS‐associated syndromes and the importance of detecting somatic mosaicism for accurate genetic counselling.
Post‐extraction evaluation of sockets with one plate loss – a microtomographic and histological study
Authors: Osorio Leandro B. , de Menezes Luciane M. , Assaf Jamal H. , Soares André V. , da Veiga Marcelo L. , Stuani Maria B. S.
Published: November 2014

Aim

The aim of this study is to evaluate the characteristics of socket repair after teeth extraction with loss of a bone plate.

Material and Method

Lower incisors were extracted from 120‐day‐old male rabbits. A standardized defect of 5 mm in the buccal plate was created in one of the socket sites. Furthermore, complete closures of the sockets entrance were performed. Two groups of biopsies were obtained: one with 14 days of healing and the other with 112, to perform the micro‐CTand histological evaluations of the tested group with plate loss comparing with the control group with the intact buccal bone wall.

Results

Plate loss sites demonstrated reduction in width when compared to the intact ones and, this difference decreased with time.

Conclusion

Long‐term analysis showed that plate loss interfered in final ridge measurements by reducing the middle portion of the socket width compared to the intact plate sockets. The histological and micro‐CTqualitative analysis showed that both sites presented similar pattern of healing, despite the reduced dimension found in plate loss sites.
PRODUCTIVE RECESSIONS AND JOBLESS RECOVERIES
Authors: Burger John D. , Schwartz Jeremy S.
Published: November 2014

We explore international variation in business cycle dynamics to gain insights into the recent pattern of robust productivity growth during downturns (productive recessions) and weak employment growth during recoveries (jobless recoveries) seen in some advanced economies. We find that sectoral change is associated with productive recessions but that labor market rigidity can impede reallocation and reduce the probability of a productive recession. We also find evidence of a link between productive recessions and jobless recoveries and that recessions dominated by reductions to employment, rather than changes in average employee hours, are more likely to be associated with jobless recoveries. (JELF44, E32)
Manipulating Morality: Third‐Party Intentions Alter Moral Judgments by Changing Causal Reasoning
Authors: Phillips Jonathan , Shaw Alex
Published: November 2014

The present studies investigate how the intentions of third parties influence judgments of moral responsibility for other agents who commit immoral acts. Using cases in which an agent acts under some situational constraint brought about by a third party, we ask whether the agent is blamed less for the immoral act when the third party intended for that act to occur. Study 1 demonstrates that third‐party intentions do influence judgments of blame. Study 2 finds that third‐party intentions only influence moral judgments when the agent's actions precisely match the third party's intention. Study 3 shows that this effect arises from changes in participants' causal perception that the third party was controlling the agent. Studies 4 and 5, respectively, show that the effect cannot be explained by changes in the distribution of blame or perceived differences in situational constraint faced by the agent.
Identification of Candidate Long Noncoding RNAs Associated with Left Ventricular Hypertrophy
Authors: Zhang Lu , Hamad Eman A. , Vausort Mélanie , Funakoshi Hajime , Feldman Arthur M. , Wagner Daniel R. , Devaux Yvan
Published: November 2014

Purpose

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) constitute an emerging group of noncoding RNAs, which regulate gene expression. Their role in cardiac disease is poorly known. Here, we investigated the association between lncRNAs and left ventricular hypertrophy.

Methods

Wild‐type and adenosine A2A receptor overexpressing mice (A2A‐Tg) were subjected to transverse aortic constriction (TAC) and expression of lncRNAs in the heart was investigated using genome‐wide microarrays and an analytical pipeline specifically developed for lncRNAs.

Results

Microarray analysis identified two lncRNAs up‐regulated and three down‐regulated in the hearts of A2A‐Tg mice subjected to TAC. Quantitative PCR showed that lncRNAs 2900055J20Rik and Gm14005 were decreased in A2A‐Tg mice (3.5‐ and 1.8‐fold, p < 0.01). We found from public microarray dataset that 2900055J20Rik and Gm14005 were increased in TAC mice compared to sham‐operated animals (1.8‐ and 1.4‐fold, after 28 days, p < 0.01). Interestingly, in this public dataset, cardioprotective drug JQ1 decreased 2900055J20Rik and Gm14005 expression by 2.2‐ and 1.6‐fold (p < 0.01).

Conclusions

First, we have shown that data on lncRNAs can be obtained from gene expression microarrays. Second, expression of lncRNAs 2900055J20Rik and Gm14005 is regulated after TAC and can be modulated by cardioprotective molecules. These observations motivate further investigation of the therapeutic value of lncRNAs in the heart.
A unique case of concurrent chronic lymphocytic leukemia/small lymphocytic lymphoma and lymphomatoid papulosis in the same biopsy
Authors: Hibler J. , Salavaggione Andrea L. , Martin Ann , Gru Alejandro A.
Published: November 2014

Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL/SLL) is the most common leukemia in the western world and its cutaneous dissemination a very uncommon phenomenon. Lymphomatoid papulosis (LyP) is a CD30+ lymphoproliferative disorder characterized by chronic, recurrent and self healing skin lesions. Up to 20% of patients with LyP have a coexistent lymphoma. While the association between the two entities has been reported, their coexistence has never been documented. We describe a 74‐year‐old man with known CLL and thrombocytopenia who presented with a 2 year history of recurrent nodules and plaques to both arms and legs that resolved within 4–6 weeks after administration of rituximab and bendamustin for his CLL treatment. His biopsies showed an atypical lymphoid infiltrate, composed of large and pleomorphic cells with a nodular and interstitial pattern in a background of eosinophils. Immunohistochemical staining revealed a pattern of two separate yet coexisting neoplastic processes; a large CD30 positive T‐cell lymphoproliferative disorder, while the other one was diagnostic of a neoplastic B‐cell process (leukemia cutis). A diagnosis of coexistent LyP and cutaneous involvement by CLL/SLL was rendered. The simultaneous presence of both disorders can be a pitfall in the differential diagnosis of large cell lymphomas, such as Richter's transformation of CLL/SLL.