bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficacy of sorafenib beyond first progression in patients with metastatic hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Miyahara Koji , Nouso Kazuhiro , Morimoto Yuki , Takeuchi Yasuto , Hagihara Hiroaki , Kuwaki Kenji , Onishi Hideki , Ikeda Fusao , Miyake Yasuhiro , Nakamura Shinichiro , Shiraha Hidenori , Takaki Akinobu , Iwadou Shouta , Kobayashi Yoshiyuki , Takaguchi Koichi , Takuma Yoshitaka , Takabatake Hiroyuki , Sakaguchi Kohsaku , Yamamoto Kazuhide ,   the Okayama Liver Cancer Group
Published: April 2013

Aim

We investigated whether continuous sorafenib administration keeps suppressing the growth of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) after first progressive disease (PD), and whether it prolongs patients' survival.

Methods

The size of metastatic lesions was measured in 36 patients with advanced HCC treated with sorafenib. The tumor growth rates before and after radiological PD as well as survival were compared between the patients who continued (n = 23) and stopped (n = 13) sorafenib at first radiological PD.

Results

The growth rate did not differ between before and after PD in patients who continued sorafenib, while it increased after PD in patients who stopped sorafenib at PD (P = 0.002). Survival beyond first progression was longer in patients who continued sorafenib than in those who stopped it at PD (P = 0.012), and this tendency was observed even when the analysis was limited to Child–Pugh class A patients (P = 0.085).

Conclusion

Sorafenib administration beyond first radiological PD could continuously suppress HCC growth and may have survival benefit.
The Clinical Relevance of Information Index (CRII): assessing the relevance of health information to the clinical practice
Authors: Galvao Maria Cristiane Barbosa , Ricarte Ivan Luiz Marques , Grad Roland M. , Pluye Pierre
Published: April 2013

Background

The high volume of health information creates a need for processes and tools to select, evaluate and disseminate relevant information to health professionals in clinical practice.

Objectives

To introduce an index of the clinical relevance of information and to show that it is different from existing measures.

Methods

A conceptual model of knowledge translation was developed to explain the need for a new index, whose application was verified by an exploratory study with two (quantitative and qualitative) phases. The Clinical Relevance of Information Index (CRII) was defined employing descriptive statistical analyses of assessments performed by health professionals. The model and the CRII were applied in a primary healthcare context.

Results

The CRII was applied to 4574 relevance assessments of 194 evidence synopses. The assessments were performed by 41 family physicians in 2008. The CRII value of each synopsis was compared with the number of citations received by its corresponding research paper and with the level of evidence of the study, presenting weak correlation with both.

Conclusion

The CRII captures aspects of information not considered by other indices. It can be a parameter for information providers, institutions, editors, as well as health and information professionals targeting knowledge translation.
The influence of cultural universality and specificity on EFL learners' comprehension of metaphor and metonymy
Authors: Chen Yi‐chen , Lai Huei‐ling
Published: April 2013

EFL learners may face different degrees of difficulty in transferring figurative expressions between L1 and L2 due to cultural similarities and differences embedded in languages. This study explores the influence of universality and specificity of culture on EFL learners' comprehension of metaphor and metonymy. Twenty eight Taiwanese EFL learners were asked to translate 12 English sentences into Chinese. Findings indicate that the participants performed the best when English and Chinese shared the same conceptual metaphors, and performed the worst when conceptual metaphors were distinct. The findings both support and qualify the interlanguage continuum of L2 acquisition. Suggestions to integrate conceptual metaphors and metonymies so as to effectively raise EFL learners' awareness of abstract concepts are made for future empirical research.
Heat‐shock proteins as dendritic cell‐targeting vaccines – getting warmer
Authors: McNulty Shaun , Colaco Camilo A. , Blandford Lucy E. , Bailey Christopher R. , Baschieri Selene , Todryk Stephen
Published: April 2013

Heat‐shock proteins (hsp) provide a natural link between innate and adaptive immune responses by combining the ideal properties of antigen carriage (chaperoning), targeting and activation of antigen‐presenting cells (APC), including dendritic cells (DC). Targeting is achieved through binding of hsp to distinct cell surface receptors and is followed by antigen internalization, processing and presentation. An improved understanding of the interaction of hsp with DC has driven the development of numerous hsp‐containing vaccines, designed to deliver antigens directly to DC. Studies in mice have shown that for cancers, such vaccines generate impressive immune responses and protection from tumour challenge. However, translation to human use, as for many experimental immunotherapies, has been slow partly because of the need to perform trials in patients with advanced cancers, where demonstration of efficacy is challenging. Recently, the properties of hsp have been used for development of prophylactic vaccines against infectious diseases including tuberculosis and meningitis. These hsp‐based vaccines, in the form of pathogen‐derived hsp–antigen complexes, or recombinant hsp combined with selected antigens in vitro, offer an innovative approach against challenging diseases where broad antigen coverage is critical.
Characteristics of IL‐17 induction by Schistosoma japonicum infection in C57BL/6 mouse liver
Authors: Chen Dianhui , Luo Xueping , Xie Hongyan , Gao Zhiyan , Fang Huilong , Huang Jun
Published: April 2013

Schistosomiasis japonica is a severe tropical disease caused by the parasitic worm Schistosoma japonicum. Among the most serious pathological effects of S. japonicum infection are hepatic lesions (cirrhosis and fibrosis) and portal hypertension. Interleukin‐17 (IL‐17) is a pro‐inflammatory cytokine involved in the pathogenesis of many inflammatory and infectious conditions, including schistosomiasis. We infected C57BL/6 mice with S. japonicum and isolated lymphocytes from the liver to identify cell subsets with high IL‐17 expression and release using flow cytometry and ELISA. Expression and release of IL‐17 was significantly higher in hepatic lymphocytes from infected mice compared with control mice in response to both non‐specific stimulation with anti‐CD3 monoclonal antibody plus/anti‐CD28 monoclonal antibody and PMA plus ionomycin. We then compared IL‐17 expression in three hepatic T‐cell subsets, T helper, natural killer T and γδT cells, to determine the major source of IL‐17 during infection. Interleukin‐17 was induced in all three subsets by PMA + ionomycin, but γδT lymphocytes exhibited the largest increase in expression. We then established a mouse model to further investigate the role of IL‐17 in granulomatous and fibrosing inflammation against parasite eggs. Reducing IL‐17 activity using anti‐IL‐17A antibodies decreased infiltration of inflammatory cells and collagen deposition in the livers of infected C57BL/6 mice. The serum levels of soluble egg antigen (IL) ‐specific IgGs were enhanced by anti‐IL‐17A monoclonal antibody blockade, suggesting that IL‐17 normally serves to suppress this humoral response. These findings suggest that γδT cells are the most IL‐17‐producing cells and that IL‐17 contributes to granulomatous inflammatory and fibrosing reactions in S. japonicum‐infected C57BL/6 mouse liver.
Using a knowledge utilization framework to explore how findings from one study can be applied to other nursing contexts
Authors: Olsen P.R. , Bradbury‐Jones C.
Published: April 2013

Aim

To discuss the complexities of moving research into practice and through a case example, explore how empirical findings from one specific study could be applied to nursing in other contexts.

Background

The processes of moving research findings into practice are complex and multidimensional. In this paper, an innovative approach to social support, network‐focused nursing (NFN), is used as a case example to illustrate these complexities. Social support is associated with better recovery and survival after illness and based on this, a NFN programme was developed in a Danish oncology youth unit. Subsequently, a research study was undertaken to investigate the programme and based on the findings, the concept NFN was developed.

Methods

A knowledge utilization framework is used to explore how empirical findings from the NFN study could be applied to nursing more generally. Aligned with this, the specific considerations for implementing NFN are explicated.

Discussion

Strong leadership, education, management support and effective communication are critical factors for research utilization. Moving research into practice requires openness to new ideas. Nursing and healthcare policies therefore need to support environments in which creativity and innovation can flourish. NFN was developed in teenager and young adult cancer care, but its principles may be transferable to other clinical environments.

Conclusions

It is important that nurse managers and policy makers ensure that support and education are available to nurses to facilitate moving research into practice. Moreover, resources need to be considered, particularly in countries where financial and organizational infrastructures may be weak.
Role of human Toll‐like receptors in naturally occurring influenza A infections
Authors: Lee Nelson , Wong Chun Kwok , Hui David S. C. , Lee Sharon K. W. , Wong Rity Y. K. , Ngai Karry L. K. , Chan Martin C. W. , Chu Yi Jun , Ho Amy W. Y. , Lui Grace C. Y. , Wong Bonnie C. K. , Wong Sunny H. , Yip Shea Ping , Chan Paul K. S.
Published: April 2013

Background

We investigated the roles of Toll‐like receptors (TLRs) in naturally occurring influenza.

Methods

A prospective, case – control study was conducted. Adults hospitalized with virologically confirmed influenza A infections (onset <48 hours, before treatment) were compared with age‐/gender‐matched controls. TLRs (2, 3, 4, 7, 8, 9) expression in monocytes and dendritic cells (DCs – total, myeloid, plasmacytoid) was quantitated using flow cytometry. Gene expression of RLRs (RIG‐1, MDA‐5) was evaluated using real‐time PCR. Concomitant signaling molecules expression, plasma cytokine/chemokine concentrations, and respiratory tract viral loads were measured. PBMCs were cultured and stimulated ex vivo with TLR‐specific ligands for cytokine responses.

Results

Forty two patients with influenza (24 A/H3N2, 18 A/H1N1pdm09) and 20 controls were studied. Patients' mean age was 68 ± 16 years; 81% had respiratory/cardiovascular complications. There were increased cellular expressions of TLR9, TLR8, TLR3, and TLR7 during influenza; TLR2 and TLR4 were suppressed. Results were similar for both virus strains. Higher TLR expression levels at presentation significantly correlated with lower viral loads (Spearman's rho: −0·46 to −0·69 for TLR9, TLR8, and TLR3; P‐values <0·05). Multivariate regression models (adjusted for age, comorbidity, disease severity, time from onset) confirmed their independent associations. Increased signaling molecules (phospho‐MAPKs, IκB) and inflammatory cytokines (IL‐6, sTNFR‐1, CCL2/MCP‐1; CXCL10/IP‐10, IFN‐γ) correlated with increased TLR expression. RLRs were upregulated simultaneously. PBMCs of patients with influenza showed significant, dynamic changes in their cytokine responses upon TLR stimulation, compared with controls.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that TLRs play an important role in early, innate viral inhibition in naturally occurring influenza. Inflammatory cytokine responses are concomitantly induced. These findings support investigation of TLR targeting as a novel intervention approach for prophylaxis against influenza.
The emerging role of histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors in urological cancers
Authors: Sharma Naomi L. , Groselj Blaz , Hamdy Freddie C. , Kiltie Anne E.
Published: April 2013

What's known on the subject? and What does the study add?

A growing body of evidence supports the anti‐cancer effect of histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACi) in vitro, via multiple pathways, and many Phase I clinical trials have shown them to be well‐tolerated in a range of malignancies. Combined therapies, including with radiation, present an exciting area of current and planned study.

This review summarises the evidence to date, including pre‐clinical data and clinical trials, of the anti‐cancer effect of HDACi in urological cancers. It provides an overview of epigenetics and the mechanisms of action of HDACi. It suggests areas of future development, including the current challenges for the successful introduction of HDACi into clinical therapy.

Epigenetic modifications are known to play a critical role in the development and progression of many cancers.

The opposing actions of histone deacetylases (HDACs) and histone acetyltransferases (HATs) modify chromatin and lead to epigenetic gene regulation, in addition to wider effects on non‐histone proteins.

There is growing interest in the clinical application of HDAC inhibitors (HDACi) in cancer. HDACi have been shown to inhibit cancer cell growth both in vitro and in vivo and recent clinical trials have shown encouraging results in various urological cancers.

In this review, we discuss the existing evidence and potential role for HDACi in urological malignancies, including in combined therapies.
MAKING ENDS MEET: HOW REINVENTION REFORMS COMPLEMENT PUBLIC SERVICE MOTIVATION
Authors: DAVIS RANDALL S. , STAZYK EDMUND C.
Published: April 2013

Students of public management often argue that imposing market‐based logic on public sector organizations can undermine the altruistic motives of public employees. Focusing on the complex relationships between ‘reinventing government’ reforms, bureaucratic red tape, and public service motivation (PSM), we contend that the effects of reinvention reforms onPSMchange as a function of the ability of reforms to cut bureaucratic red tape. A series of structural equation models reveal that the relationships between reinvention reforms, bureaucratic red tape, andPSMare much more complex than previously thought. Contrary to conjectures in the mainstreamPSMliterature, implementing market‐like reforms in public organizations positively influencesPSM, if one views the reform as minimizing red tape.
Adult age of vascular plant species along an elevational land‐use and climate gradient
Authors: Nobis Michael P. , Schweingruber Fritz H.
Published: April 2013

Trait variation across species plays a fundamental role in ecology and evolution, but quantitative analyses of key life‐history traits under natural conditions generally do not include a large number of species. In a comparative study, we analyzed interspecific variation in adult age as a minimum estimate of the lifespan of 708 vascular plant species along elevational gradients from 263–3175 m a.s.l. and compared this variation with predictions from r‐K selection theory and the metabolic theory of ecology (MTE). Age data based on annual ring counts of root collars and rhizomes were combined with a systematic sample of current species distributions in Switzerland (453 plots, each 1 km2). Elevation and temperature trends were investigated by regression analyses of the variation in adult age across species and species assemblages (median adult age) at the landscape level. We included climate, land use and geology as environmental predictors in multiple regressions and considered phylogeny by eigenvector filtering. We found a general increase in adult age towards higher elevations at the level of overall interspecific variation, and this trend was also detectable within individual plant families. Species generally had a shorter lifespan under warmer climates and, in agreement with r‐K prediction, in lowland agricultural landscapes. We found an exponential adult age–temperature relationship that is consistent with MTE. The estimate of the MTE parameter ‘activation energy’ for median adult age in multiple regression was 0.65 eV (95% CI 0.62–0.69 eV) which coincided with the predicted range of 0.60–0.70 eV. Our results imply that climate warming could accelerate species turnover rates by favoring short‐lived species over the whole range of life histories and species assemblages. Besides the strong temperature relationship, residual variability and confounding factors demonstrate the need for additional research about interactions between broad‐scale constraints and more local drivers of life‐history variation.
The consensus model for regulation of APRNs: Implications for nurse practitioners
Authors: Rounds Linda R. , Zych Jolene J. , Mallary Laura L.
Published: April 2013

Purpose

To examine the Consensus Model for APRN Regulation as a proposed solution to simplify and unify regulation of advanced nursing practice with respect to licensure, certification, accreditation, and educational standards.

Data sources

Policy statements and reports issued by national organizations of nursing professionals and discussion within the scholarly literature provided an overview of regulatory differences among the 50 U.S. states, their impacts on advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) practice, and discussion of the Consensus Model as a potential solution.

Conclusions

Major organizations of nursing professionals have endorsed the Consensus Model, indicating the importance of this significant step toward standards and consistent quality in APRN education and practice. Diverse regulatory criteria, such as variable accreditation standards, disparate certification and licensing requirements, inconsistent population foci, and scopes of practice, represent barriers to optimized APRN function within today's complex healthcare system and, ultimately, reduced access to safe, quality care for patients.

Implications for practice

The Consensus Model for APRN Regulation promises to unify APRN education, practice, and licensure, promoting greater mobility among nursing professionals. Elimination of inconsistencies in APRN licensure, education, certification, and accreditation requirements will promote greater value and mobility for the APRN within the healthcare system.
Female Adoptees’ Experiences Balancing Relationships With Biological and Adoptive Mothers Post‐Reunification
Authors: Richardson Angelle , Davey Maureen P. , Swint Phyllis A.
Published: April 2013

Using a feminist postmodern perspective and the sensitizing concept of split loyalties from Contextual Theory, the primary purpose of this qualitative study was to develop a better understanding of how adult female adoptees from closed adoptions negotiate relationships with their adoptive and biological mothers post‐reunion. We conducted semi‐structured individual interviews with nine adult female adoptees, ages 28–52, who were adopted prior to the age of two. Six were Caucasian, three were African American, and the average age at reunion was 29. Grounded theory techniques were used to code the qualitative data, in particular the constant comparative method of analysis. Four main categories emerged: (a) Negotiating Mother–Daughter Relationships, (b) Relating to Mothers Equitably, (c) Loyalty, and (d) Adoptees’ Emotional Needs. Our findings suggest the adoptive mother–daughter relationship has a salient effect on adoptees’ relationships with biological mothers post‐reunion. Loyalty to the adoptive mother seems to influence the evolving relationship and closeness displayed toward the birth mother. Adult female adoptees from closed adoptions described struggling with managing their two mother–daughter relationships and need clinical help addressing their own emotional needs.
Trends in intakes and sources of solid fats and added sugars among U.S. children and adolescents: 1994–2010
Authors: Slining M. M. , Popkin B. M.
Published: April 2013

What is already known about this subject

Despite recent declines in added sugars (from 1999–2000 to 2007–2008), consumption of added sugars and solid fats among United States children and adolescent from 1999–2000 to 2007–2008 exceeds recommended levels.

What this study adds

These results suggest that the decreases in solid fat and added sugars intakes among United States children and adolescents observed from 1999–2000 through 2007–2008 have levelled‐off.

Decreases in solid fat and added sugars intakes have primarily been due to reductions in added sugar intakes.

Although the consumption of solid fats and added sugars among children and adolescents in the United States decreased between 1994–1998 and 2009–2010, mean intakes continue to exceed recommended limits by 18–28% of total energy intake.

Background

There are increasing global concerns about improving the dietary intakes of children and adolescents. In the United States (U.S.), the focus is on reducing energy from foods and beverages that provide empty calories from solid fats and added sugars (SoFAS).

Objective

We examine trends in intakes and sources of solid fat and added sugars among U.S. 2–18 year olds from 1994 to 2010.

Methods

Data from five nationally representative surveys, the Continuing Survey of Food Intakes by Individuals Surveys (1994–1996) and the What We Eat In America, National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys (2003–2004, 2005–2006, 2007–2008 and 2009–2010) were used to examine key food sources and energy from solid fats and added sugars. Sample sizes ranged from 2594 to 8259 per survey period, for a total of 17 268 observations across the five surveys. Food files were linked over time to create comparable food groups and nutrient values. Differences were examined by age, race/ethnicity and family income.

Results

Daily intake of energy from SoFAS among U.S. 2–18 year olds decreased from 1994 to 2010, with declines primarily detected in the recent time periods. Solid fats accounted for a greater proportion of total energy intake than did added sugars.

Conclusions

Although the consumption of solid fats and added sugars among children and adolescents in the U.S. decreased between 1994–1998 and 2009–2010, mean intakes continue to exceed recommended limits.
Ethnic variations in overweight and obesity among children over time: findings from analyses of the Health Surveys for England 1998–2009
Authors: Karlsen S. , Morris S. , Kinra S. , Vallejo‐Torres L. , Viner R. M.
Published: April 2013

What is already known about this subject

The increase in the prevalence of obesity among children and adolescents in England has stabilized following a peak in 2004 and 2005.

This stabilization conceals continued rises among more deprived and certain ethnic minority groups.

It is unclear which ethnic groups in the UK experience the highest rates of overweight/obesity, how this has changed over time and how these patterns relate to socioeconomic differences between the groups.

What this study adds

Trends over time suggested that overweight/obesity rates for ethnic minority groups had not peaked, unlike those for white English groups.

Black African children had higher rates of overweight and obesity, and black Caribbean children had higher rates of obesity.

Differences were not explained by variations in equivalized household income.

Background

The increase in the prevalence of obesity among children and adolescents in England since the mid‐1990s has been dramatic. Cross‐sectional evidence suggests ethnic variations in childhood obesity prevalence.

Objectives

The objective of the study was to examine whether and how ethnic variations in childhood overweight/obesity have changed over time, and are affected by socioeconomic factors.

Method

This study uses logistic regression to analyse ethnic differences in the relative likelihood of being at or above the age‐ and gender‐specific thresholds for overweight and obesity developed by the International Obesity Task Force among children aged between 2 and 15 from 11 ethnic groups included in the Health Surveys for England between 1998 and 2009, adjusting for age, gender, year of data collection and equivalized household income. We separately analyse the likelihood of being at or above the thresholds for overweight (but below those for obesity) and obesity.

Results

Trends in overweight/obesity over time among ethnic minority groups do not follow those of white English children. Black African children had higher rates of overweight and obesity, which appear to have peaked, and black Caribbean children had higher rates of obesity than other groups examined, which appear to continue rising. These differences were not explained by socioeconomic variations between groups.

Conclusion

Policies are required that encourage healthy lifestyles among ethnic minority young people, while engaging with the complexities associated with these choices during childhood and adolescence.
Hydrochar and Biochar Effects on Germination of Spring Barley
Authors: Bargmann I. , Rillig M. C. , Buss W. , Kruse A. , Kuecke M.
Published: April 2013

Within the framework of climate change mitigation by sequestrating recalcitrant carbon in soil, biochar is considered as a promising soil amendment. Testing any such soil additives is vitally important, as they should not cause abiotic stress for plants due to chemical constituents they may contain. Thus, germination tests with spring barley (Hordeum vulgare) were conducted to assess phytotoxic effects of biochar, hydrochar and process‐water from hydrothermal carbonization (HTC) as soil amendments. Additionally, single‐component tests with substances found in process‐waters were carried out with cress (Lepidium sativum). While biochars generally had no effect on germination, hydrochars and process‐waters significantly inhibited germination. The dissolved organic carbon content predicted the germination‐inhibiting effects observed. Three compounds resulted in partial (guaiacol) or total (levulinic acid and glycolic acid) inhibition of cress seed germination, and three others (acetic acid, glycolaldehyde dimer and catechol) had a negative impact on growth. Phytotoxic substances in chars appeared to be mostly water soluble and volatile. Pre‐treatments of hydrochars and process‐waters (i.e. storage and washing) were able to reduce germination inhibition. While phytotoxic substances that are generated during HTC stay in the products, biochars from kiln carbonization of the same feedstocks had no negative effects on germination, likely because volatiles evaporate during the conversion. Our study highlights the importance of comprehensively testing carbonized products for their compatibility with agricultural and horticultural systems.
Microscopic Origins of Compositional Trends in Aluminosilicate Glass Properties
Authors: Smedskjaer Morten M. , Mauro John C. , Kjeldsen Jonas , Yue Yuanzheng
Published: April 2013

Revealing and understanding the microscopic origins of the macroscopic properties of aluminosilicate glasses is important for the design of new glasses with optimized properties. In this work, we study the composition‐structure‐property relationships in 20 MgO/CaO sodium aluminosilicate glasses upon Al2O3‐for‐SiO2 and MgO‐for‐CaO substitutions. We find that some properties (density, molar volume, Young's modulus, and shear modulus) are linear through the investigated range of Al2O3 compositions, while others (refractive index, coefficient of thermal expansion, Vickers hardness, isokom temperatures, and liquid fragility index) exhibit a change in the slope around the composition with [Al2O3] = [Na2O], which is especially pronounced for the glasses containing MgO. We discuss these phenomena based on structural information obtained by NMR spectroscopy and topological considerations.
Structural Investigation of the Surface of Bioglass 45S5 Enriched with Calcium Ions
Authors: Lopes João H. , Mazali Italo Odone , Landers Richard , Bertran Celso A.
Published: April 2013

In this article the changes on the surface of the 45S5 bioglass submitted to an enrichment with calcium ions were investigated. The method employed was the immersion of bioglass in calcium molten salt bath at 450°C. Changes in composition were probed by different techniques of chemical analysis. The use of SEM‐EDS allowed estimating the thickness modified, as being about 10 μm. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy enabled to infer over the structural changes on the surface of 45S5 bioactive glass. The entry of calcium in the vitreous network promoted the phase separation of microdomains rich in silica and phosphate on the surface of the glass. The formation of immiscibility region was attributed a depolymerization of silica network and also, to a possible migration of phosphate species from the bulk. The results of this study indicate a great change in the surface properties of this biomaterial. In addition, the method proposed in this study proved to be very promising in the possibility of designing the surface of bioactive glasses, to modulate the desired properties, keeping the bulk unchanged.
Procedural justice, supervisor autonomy support, work satisfaction, organizational identification and job performance: the mediating role of need satisfaction and perceived organizational support
Authors: Gillet Nicolas , Colombat Philippe , Michinov Estelle , Pronost Anne‐Marie , Fouquereau Evelyne
Published: April 2013

Aim

To test a model linking procedural justice, supervisor autonomy support, need satisfaction, organizational support, work satisfaction, organizational identification and job performance.

Background

Research in industrial and organizational psychology has shown that procedural justice and supervisor autonomy support lead to positive outcomes. However, very little research related to this subject has been conducted in healthcare settings. Moreover, few studies have examined mechanisms that could account for these positive relationships.

Design

A cross‐sectional correlational design was used.

Method

Convenience sampling was used and a sample of 500 nurses working in haematology, oncology and haematology/oncology units in France was surveyed in 2011. The final sample consisted of 323 nurses (64·6% response rate). The hypothesized model was tested using structural equation modelling.

Results

Procedural justice and supervisor autonomy support significantly and positively influenced need satisfaction and perceived organizational support, which in turn positively predicted work satisfaction, organizational identification and job performance.

Conclusion

Organizations could deliver training programmes for their managers aimed at enhancing the use of fair procedures in allocating outcomes and developing their autonomy‐supportive behaviours to improve nurses' work satisfaction, organizational identification and job performance.
Meaning of upper limit of normal range of post‐load 1‐h plasma glucose level defined by oral glucose tolerance test in Japanese subjects
Authors: Iwao Tadashi , Sakai Kenji , Ando Eiji
Published: April 2013

Aims/Introduction

To identify upper limit post‐load 1‐h plasma glucose (1‐h PG) after 75‐g oral glucose test in a Japanese population.

Materials and Methods

A total of 918 subjects were enrolled. We divided the subjects into two groups: normal 2‐h post‐load plasma glucose (2‐h PG; <140 mg/dL) and impaired 2‐h PG group (≥140 mg/dL).

Results

A total of 417 subjects had normal 2‐h PG and 501 had impaired 2‐h PG. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve showed that the optimal cut‐off value of 1‐h PG was 179 mg/dL (area under ROC curve = 0.89), providing that the sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive value were 85, 79, 82 and 83%, respectively. The subjects with 1‐h PG < 179 mg/dL consisted of 0.5% diabetes and 99.5% non‐diabetes, whereas those with 1‐h PG ≥ 179 mg/dL consisted of 26.9% diabetes and 73.1% non‐diabetes (P < 0.01). Furthermore, there was a significant correlation between 1‐h PG and 2‐h PG (r2 = 0.57, P < 0.01).

Conclusions

These data suggested that 179 mg/dL is the upper limit of the normal range of post‐load of 1‐h PG in a Japanese population. Thus, the subjects with 1‐h PG ≥ 179 mg/dL might be at risk of developing future diabetes. Therefore, appropriate prospective study should be carried out to test this hypothesis.
Effects of Cyclic Fatigue Stress‐Biocorrosion on Noncarious Cervical Lesions
Authors: Grippo John O. , Chaiyabutr Yada , Kois John C.
Published: April 2013

Problem

Although there is a high prevalence of noncarious cervical lesions (NCCLs), the etiology of these lesions remains contentious.

Purpose

To evaluate the combined effects of cyclic fatigue stress and biocorrosion activity on NCCLs.

Materials and Methods

Extracted premolar teeth were allocated into four groups (N = 10). Two groups were cyclically fatigue loaded (100 N; 72 cycles per minute; 9,200 cycles) and placed in either hydrochloric acid gel (pH = 0.1) or orange juice (pH = 4). The other two groups were stored in identical chemical solutions without fatigue load. The buccal–lingual width of each tooth was measured before and after testing. The depth of biocorrosion, normalized by the percentage change in buccolingual width, normalized by time (hour) was calculated. The data were analyzed using a two‐way analysis of variance and Tukey's HSD multiple comparison test (α = 0.05).

Results

Mean (SD) of the depth of biocorrosion values were as follows: teeth receiving fatigue loading with hydrochloric acid gel exposure (1.003%/hour [0.063]) revealed a significantly higher depth of biocorrosion than the fatigue‐loaded group with orange juice exposure (0.511%/hour [0.281]) (p < 0.01). For the groups without fatigue loading, those with hydrochloric acid gel (0.022%/hour [0.006]) had a significantly higher depth of biocorrosion than the group with orange juice (0.009%/hour [0.004]) (p < 0.01). The cyclically fatigue‐loaded teeth with hydrochloric acid gel had a significantly greater depth of biocorrosion than either group without fatigue loading (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Cyclic fatigue stress—acidic biocorrosion had a significant effect on the depth of the NCCLs.

Clinical Significance

In order to manage the destructive NCCLs lesions properly, it is essential to understand the etiology of these lesions. The present study indicated that the combined mechanisms of cyclic fatigue stress and biocorrosion could contribute to the formation of NCCLs.
Comparison of Mesiodistal Crown Dimension and Arch Width in Subjects with and without Hypodontia
Authors: Fekonja Anita
Published: April 2013

Objective

Tooth agenesis is one of the most common anomalies in the development of the human dentition and may have wider associations in the development of the dentition including tooth size. This study aimed to compare mesiodistal crown dimension and arch widths between subjects with hypodontia and subjects without hypodontia (control group).

Materials and Methods

Dental casts were measured of 55 hypodontia patients and 55 patients with total permanent dentition (control group). Tooth agenesis was evaluated for hypodontia, excluding the third molars, from the panoramic radiograph. Mesiodistal crown dimensions were recorded by measuring all erupted teeth on study models with a digital Mitutoyo caliper (Mitutoyo UK Ltd, United Kingdom).

Results

Patients with hypodontia had smaller mesiodistal tooth dimensions than the control group, and this difference was statistically significant (p < 0.05) for all teeth in both genders. Upper lateral incisors, lower central incisors, and lower second molars showed the highest difference in tooth dimension. Also, the intercanine and intermolar arch widths in the hypodontia group were statistically significantly reduced (p < 0.05) compared with the control group.

Conclusions

The findings indicate that the mesiodistal crown dimensions and arch widths are reduced in hypodontia patients. This should be taken into account when planning orthodontic treatment.

Clinical Significance

Congenital absence of permanent teeth has direct clinical implications. Early detection of the number of missing teeth and evaluation of the tooth size and arch width is of immense value in the planning and managing treatment with a multidisciplinary team approach to achieve an aesthetic and functional dentition and reduce the complications of hypodontia.
An automatic vision‐based malaria diagnosis system
Authors: VINK J.P. , LAUBSCHER M. , VLUTTERS R. , SILAMUT K. , MAUDE R.J. , HASAN M.U. , DE HAAN G.
Published: April 2013

Malaria is a worldwide health problem with 225 million infections each year. A fast and easy‐to‐use method, with high performance is required to differentiate malaria from non‐malarial fevers. Manual examination of blood smears is currently the gold standard, but it is time‐consuming, labour‐intensive, requires skilled microscopists and the sensitivity of the method depends heavily on the skills of the microscopist.

We propose an easy‐to‐use, quantitative cartridge‐scanner system for vision‐based malaria diagnosis, focusing on low malaria parasite densities. We have used special finger‐prick cartridges filled with acridine orange to obtain a thin blood film and a dedicated scanner to image the cartridge. Using supervised learning, we have built a Plasmodium falciparum detector. A two‐step approach was used to first segment potentially interesting areas, which are then analysed in more detail. The performance of the detector was validated using 5 420 manually annotated parasite images from malaria parasite culture in medium, as well as using 40 cartridges of 11 780 images containing healthy blood.

From finger prick to result, the prototype cartridge‐scanner system gave a quantitative diagnosis in 16 min, of which only 1 min required manual interaction of basic operations. It does not require a wet lab or a skilled operator and provides parasite images for manual review and quality control. In healthy samples, the image analysis part of the system achieved an overall specificity of 99.999978% at the level of (infected) red blood cells, resulting in at most seven false positives per microlitre. Furthermore, the system showed a sensitivity of 75% at the cell level, enabling the detection of low parasite densities in a fast and easy‐to‐use manner. A field trial in Chittagong (Bangladesh) indicated that future work should primarily focus on improving the filling process of the cartridge and the focus control part of the scanner.
Stroke in Primary Hyperoxaluria Type I
Authors: Rao Neal M. , Yallapragada Anil , Winden Kellen D. , Saver Jeffrey , Liebeskind David S.
Published: April 2013

We report the case of a 27‐year‐old man with a history of previously undiagnosed renal disease that presented with multiple cerebrovascular infarctions. Workup for traditional causes of cerebrovascular infarction including cardiac telemetry, multiple echocardiograms, and hypercoagulative workup was negative. However, a transcranial Doppler detected circulating microemboli at the rate of 14 per hour. A serum oxalate level greater than the supersaturation point of calcium oxalate was detected, providing a potential source of the microemboli. Furthermore, serial imaging recorded rapid mineralization of the infarcted territories. In the absence of any proximal vessel irregularities, atherosclerosis, valvular abnormalities, arrhythmias, or systemic shunt as potential stroke etiology in this patient, we propose that circulating oxalate precipitate may be a potential mechanism for stroke in patients with primary oxalosis.
Advanced Neuroimaging Studies in a Patient with Brain Metastases from Transitional Cell Carcinoma of the Bladder
Authors: Choi Yoon J. , Gabikian Patrik , Zhu Fang , Appelbaum Daniel E. , Wollmann Robert , Lukas Rimas V.
Published: April 2013

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

The differential diagnosis in single or oligo‐brain lesions in metastatic cancer patients remains broad. Advanced imaging studies can be employed to help refine the differential and potentially guide treatment.

METHODS

Case report of a 52‐year‐old male patient with known transitional cell carcinoma of the bladder presented with headaches, cognitive symptoms, and episodic presyncope. Brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS), and octreotide scans were performed to evaluate the underlying etiology of his symptoms.

RESULTS

MRI revealed two enhancing mass lesions in left temporal and left cerebellar locations. Both lesions were octreotide avid and MRS of the temporal lesion showed a single large lipid peak at 1.3 ppm, a small NAA peak, and a markedly increased choline:creatine ratio that was relatively characteristic for metastases. Pathology from surgical resection revealed transitional cell carcinoma of the bladder.

CONCLUSIONS

Resection of both lesions revealed metastatic transitional cell carcinoma. This is the first report of octreotide scan characteristics in a patient with transitional cell carcinoma with central nervous system (CNS) metastases. The octreotide avidity of these transitional cell CNS metastases suggests the presence of somatostatin receptors that may be considered as a potential therapeutic target.
Situational judgment tests: The influence and importance of applicant status and targeted constructs on estimates of Black–White subgroup differences
Authors: Roth Philip L. , Bobko Philip , Buster Maury A.
Published: April 2013

Situational judgment tests (SJTs) have become popular in recent years. Yet, there is little research on how the constructs targeted within SJTs influence standardized ethnic group differences. Further, most research in this area is subject to differential range restriction concerns that hinder understanding of the role of constructs. We report on scale‐level data from four jobs in which SJTs were part of the first major hurdle of selection, thus providing an analysis of how constructs might relate to standardized group differences when range restriction concerns are minimized. Results indicate that cognitively saturated scales were associated with d values of 0.56 and 0.76, while interpersonal items were associated with d values of 0.07, 0.20, and 0.50. Based on the obtained ds, we simulated hiring and obtained adverse impact ratios to help interpret these values of d for decision‐makers. Overall, we demonstrate the importance of examining constructs and gathering data at the applicant level of analyses when attempting to understand SJT d values (and any associated adverse impact).

Practitioner points

The constructs targeted by SJTs may influence ethnic group differences, such that cognitively‐related items/scales may lead to larger group differences than scales targeting interpersonal skills.

It can be useful to compare SJT ds based on both job applicant samples and targeted constructs during test development and during consideration of alternative predictors.
Marketing Ignorance and the Validity of Narver and Slater's MKTOR Scale in High‐Tech Russian Firms
Authors: Roersen Mariska J. , Kraaijenbrink Jeroen , Groen Aard J.
Published: April 2013

A firm's market orientation is an important factor influencing its ability to successfully develop and introduce new products. To measure market orientation, Narver and Slater's MKTOR scale has been accepted in the literature as a valid and reliable scale. In fact, it can be considered state of the art. This study, though, challenges the validity of that scale in high‐tech industries and transition economies. As part of a larger study, the scale was used to measure the market orientation of 10 Russian high‐tech small‐ and medium‐sized enterprises, next to other measures of market orientation. These were the respondent's perceptions of their market orientation; the firm's philosophy on selling goods/services or solving customer problems; and in‐depth interview questions on goals, strategies, network ties, targeted market segments, and competitive advantage. It was found that the firms obtained high scores on the MKTOR scale but that these scores were accompanied by ideas and behaviors reflecting a low or even lacking market orientation. On a scale from 1 to 7, the firms average 6.2 on customer orientation, but at the same time, they are not aware that they do not have customer‐focused strategies and do not fully understand the chain in which they operate. Further, the average on competitor orientation is 5.4. Some firms have competitor‐oriented characteristics, but others are ignorant of their competition and believe in their technological superiority as a source of competitive advantage. Analyzing these anomalies, it is concluded that the scale requires a minimum level of marketing knowledge of respondents. Without such knowledge, the MKTOR scale is susceptible to the respondent's unconscious incapability, thereby producing invalid results. In the 10 Russian cases, the respondents did not have much experience or education in marketing, which explains why they were incapable of adequately answering the items of the MKTOR scale. The results of this study help to explain the ambivalent findings in the literature about the effect of market orientation on innovation and new product development in high‐tech sectors and transition economies. The paper concludes with suggestions on how market orientation could be better measured in such contexts. It is suggested to replace the Likert‐scale by a semantic differential scale, where statements reflecting product, production, and sales orientations are confronted with statements reflecting a market orientation. Given the importance of experience and education in marketing as positive antecedents, measures of these factors should be included in the scale as well. With these adaptations, measures of market orientation will be more factual, will require less knowledge of marketing terminology, will reduce bias caused by respondents' perceptions, and will prevent ambiguity in terminology.
Sectoral Heterogeneity in New Service Development: An Exploratory Study of Service Types and Success Factors
Authors: Kuester Sabine , Schuhmacher Monika C. , Gast Barbara , Worgul Andreas
Published: April 2013

The service industry is of fundamental relevance for the economies of industrialized countries, as the service industry produces the highest growth in the gross domestic product. In this regard, new service development (NSD) represents a critical resource for competitive survival and a decisive factor of growth in the service industry. However, service firms across many industries are increasingly faced with the challenge of determining how best to manage their development of new service offerings. Although researchers have shown growing interest in NSD issues, this area is still underutilized. Furthermore, although the heterogeneity of the service industry has been emphasized for years, the current body of research on NSD mainly focuses on specific service environments, providing data that are often not comparable across different service sectors. Additionally, there is no study to date that comprehensively examines innovation activities and the relevance of service innovations’ success factors within different service industries. The aim of this exploratory study is to establish a more balanced picture of the nature of innovation activities in terms of NSD characteristics and success factors in the heterogeneous service industry. From this perspective, this paper begins with an examination of the factors that contribute to the success of NSD. Based on a meta‐analysis of new service success factor studies, 17 different success determinants are classified and aggregated to service‐related success determinants. Subsequently, a cluster analysis of 1016 service companies is used to identify different service innovation types. For the service sector, four service innovation types are determined: efficient developers, innovative developers, interactive adopters, and standardized adopters. Furthermore, based on interviews with service innovation managers, the previously identified success factors are examined for each innovation type using a standardized survey. Finally, based on the results of this exploratory study, the paper concludes with recommendations for NSD management and research propositions for each service innovation type. These propositions support innovation managers to successfully manage service innovations for the innovation type they are operating in.