bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Orthopaedic Trauma Association Annual Meeting Program Committee: Analysis of Impact of Committee Size and Review Process on Abstract Acceptance
Authors: O'Hara Nathan N. , Slobogean Gerard P. , Zhan Min , Gardner Michael J. , McKee Michael D. , Moore Sharon M. , Higgins Thomas F. , O'Toole Robert V. ,   the Orthopaedic Trauma Association Program Committee
Published: February 2018

Objective:

To evaluate whether scientific abstracts selected for podium presentation at the Orthopaedic Trauma Association (OTA) Annual Meeting differ based on the program committee size and/or the proportion of abstracts each committee member evaluates.

Methods:

Abstract scores from the Orthopaedic Trauma Association program committee from 2010 through 2016 were obtained. All members (range, 8–9) reviewed each clinical abstract (range, 506–778) each year in a blinded fashion. The 90 top-scoring abstracts were considered “accepted” for this study. To determine the effect of reducing the committee size, all possible combinations of reviewers for each possible committee size were modeled. To determine the effect of reducing the number of abstracts each member reviewed, we used Monte Carlo simulation with 100 cycles to generate possible combinations of 1–9 reviewers for each abstract. Mean percent agreement with the actual selection was the primary outcome.

Results:

The mean percent agreement progressively declined from 90.2% with 1 less committee member to 56.7% with only a single reviewer. For each reduction in the number of committee members, 4.4% agreement was lost. If all committee members were retained but the number of reviewers per abstract was reduced from 8 to 1, the mean percent agreement declined from 88.8% to 43.0%. Each reduction in reviewers per abstract reduced the mean percent agreement 6.3%.

Conclusion:

The findings inform program committees striving to balance the trade-off between an acceptable reduction in agreement, given a reduction in the program committee size or the proportion of abstracts each committee member evaluates.
Biomechanical Comparison of 3 Inferiorly Directed Versus 3 Superiorly Directed Locking Screws on Stability in a 3-Part Proximal Humerus Fracture Model
Authors: Donohue David M. , Santoni Brandon G. , Stoops T. Kyle , Tanner Gregory , Diaz Miguel A. , Mighell Mark
Published: February 2018

Objective:

To quantify the stability of 3 points of inferiorly directed versus 3 points of superiorly directed locking screw fixation compared with the full contingent of 6 points of locked screw fixation in the treatment of a 3-part proximal humerus fracture.

Methods:

A standardized 3-part fracture was created in 10 matched pairs (experimental groups) and 10 nonmatched humeri (control group). Osteosynthesis was performed using 3 locking screws in the superior hemisphere of the humeral head (suspension), 3 locking screws in the inferior hemisphere (buttress), or the full complement of 6 locking screws (control). Specimens were tested in varus cantilever bending (7.5 Nm) to 10,000 cycles or failure. Construct survival (%) and the cycles to failure were compared.

Results:

Seven of 10 controls survived the 10,000-cycle runout (70%: 8193 average cycles to failure). No experimental constructs survived the 10,000-cycle runout. Suspension and buttress screw groups failed an average of 331 and 516 cycles, respectively (P = 1.00). The average number of cycles to failure and the number of humeri surviving the 10,000-cycle runout were greater in the control group than in the experimental groups (P ≤ 0.006).

Conclusion:

Data support the use of a full contingent of 6 points of locking screw fixation over 3 superior or 3 inferior points of fixation in the treatment of a 3-part proximal humerus fracture with a locking construct. No biomechanical advantage to the 3 buttress or 3 suspension screws used in isolation was observed.
Minimizing Leg Length Discrepancy After Intramedullary Nailing of Comminuted Femoral Shaft Fractures: A Quality Improvement Initiative Using the Scout Computed Tomography Scanogram
Authors: Gheraibeh Petra , Vaidya Rahul , Hudson Ian , Meehan Robert , Tonnos Frederick , Sethi Anil
Published: February 2018

Objectives:

To prevent leg length discrepancy (LLD) after locked femoral nailing in patients with comminuted femoral shaft fractures.

Design:

Prospective consecutive case series aimed at quality improvement.

Setting:

Level 1 Trauma Center

Patients:

Ninety-eight consecutive patients with a comminuted femoral shaft fracture underwent statically locked intramedullary nailing, with a focused attempt at minimizing LLD during surgery.

Intervention:

A computed tomography scanogram of both legs was performed on postoperative day 1 to assess for residual LLD. Patients were offered the option to have LLD >1.5 cm corrected before discharge.

Main Outcome Measure:

LLD >1.5 cm.

Results:

Twenty-one patients (21.4%) were found to have an LLD >1.5 cm. An LLD >1.5 cm occurred in 10/55 (18%) antegrade nail patients and 11/43 (26%) retrograde nail patients (P = 0.27). No difference was noted based on the mechanism of injury, surgeon training and OTA/AO type B versus C injury. Ninety of 98 patients left with <1.5 cm LLD, 13/21 had a correction all to ≤0.6 cm, and 8 decided to accept the LLD and declined early correction.

Conclusions:

No patient left the hospital with an LLD >1.5 cm after locked intramedullary nailing for a comminuted femoral shaft fracture without being informed and the option of early correction. We recommend using a full-length computed tomography scanogram after IM nailing of comminuted femur fractures to prevent iatrogenic LLD.

Level of Evidence:

Therapeutic Level IV. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Impact of Psychiatric Illness on Outcomes After Operatively Managed Tibial Plateau Fractures (OTA-41)
Authors: Kugelman David , Qatu Abdullah , Haglin Jack , Konda Sanjit , Egol Kenneth
Published: February 2018

Objectives:

To assess the role self-reported treatment for a psychiatric diagnosis may play in long-term functional outcomes after operatively managed tibial plateau fractures.

Design:

Prospective cohort study.

Setting:

Academic medical center.

Patients:

Over an 11-year period, patients were screened and identified on presentation to the emergency department or in the clinical office for inclusion in an IRB-approved registry. A total of 245 patients were included in the study. Twenty-one patients reported treatment for a psychiatric diagnosis.

Intervention:

Surgical repair of tibial plateau fractures.

Main Outcome Measure:

Patients were divided into 2 cohorts; 1 cohort being those who self-reported receiving treatment of a psychiatric diagnosis (PI); the other group being those who did not self-report receiving treatment of a psychiatric diagnosis (NPI). Three-month, 6-month, and long-term outcomes (mean = 18 months) were evaluated using the Short Musculoskeletal Function Assessment (SMFA), pain scores, and postoperative complications (infection, VTE, nonunion, and necessity for secondary operations).

Results:

Pain scores were higher in patients who self-reported receiving treatment for a psychiatric diagnosis (P = 0.012). Long-term functional outcomes as measured by the SFMA were demonstrated to be worse in patients who self-reported treatment for a psychiatric diagnosis (P = 0.034). No differences existed between groups in regards to postoperative complications. Multiple linear regression analysis revealed that being treated for diagnosis of a mental health illness was an independent predictor of worse functional outcomes at long-term follow-up [B = 8.874, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.354–17.394, P = 0.041].

Conclusions:

Mental health plays a crucial role in long-term outcomes after operative fixation of tibial plateau fractures. Patients who have been diagnosed with a mental health illness have significantly worse outcomes at long-term follow-up.

Level of Evidence:

Prognostic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Efficacy of a Structured Exercise Program for Improving Functional Capacity and Quality of Life in Patients With Stage 3 and 4 Sarcoidosis
Authors: Naz Ilknur , Ozalevli Sevgi , Ozkan Serir , Sahin Hulya
Published: February 2018

Purpose:

This study investigated the effects of an exercise program on functional capacity and quality of life in patients with stage 3 and stage 4 sarcoidosis.

Methods:

Eighteen patients with stage 3 and 4 sarcoidosis were recruited; 9 received 12 wk of supervised exercise training and 9 received usual care. Patients underwent the following evaluations at baseline and follow-up: 6-min walk test, maximal inspiratory and expiratory pressure tests, back and leg dynamometer test, modified Medical Research Council Dyspnea Scale, Fatigue Severity Scale, St George Respiratory Questionnaire, Short Form-36 Quality of Life Questionnaire, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Questionnaire, body plethysmography, carbon monoxide diffusing capacity test, and blood gas analysis.

Results:

The median (interquartile range) increase in 6-min walk distance in the intervention group was 40 (31-62) m. Improvement in functional capacity; perception of dyspnea; fatigue; anxiety; peripheral and inspiratory muscle strength; partial arterial oxygen pressure; arterial oxygen saturation; and the symptom, activity, and total scores of the St George Respiratory Questionnaire were significantly greater in the intervention group than in the usual care group at follow-up (P < .05).

Conclusions:

Exercise training improves functional capacity, muscle strength, dyspnea, quality of life, anxiety, fatigue, and oxygenation in patients with stage 3 and stage 4 sarcoidosis. Standard treatment of patients with late-stage sarcoidosis should integrate exercise training and pulmonary rehabilitation.
IMPACT OF INNER LIMITING MEMBRANE PEELING ON VISUAL RECOVERY AFTER VITRECTOMY FOR PRIMARY RHEGMATOGENOUS RETINAL DETACHMENT INVOLVING THE FOVEA
Authors: Garweg Justus G. , Deiss Mario , Pfister Isabel B. , Gerhardt Christin
Published: February 2018

Purpose:

To assess the impact of inner limiting membrane peeling during vitrectomy for macula-involving retinal detachment on best-corrected visual acuity (VA).

Methods:

Retrospective analysis of 89 eyes with primary macula-involving retinal detachment, which was undergoing vitrectomy, endolaser, retinotomy, endodrainage, and SF6 tamponade. Membrane-blue-assisted membrane peeling had been performed in 61 of the eyes (Group 1) but not in the other 28 (Group 2), which served as controls.

Results:

Age, lens status, and incidence of proliferative vitreoretinopathy 26.2% versus 39.3%; P = 0.23 in the 2 groups were comparable. The preoperative visual acuity (Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study letters) was 25.7 ± 27.9 in Group 1 and 28.8 ± 29.9 in Group 2 (P = 0.47). After surgery, these rose from 62.3 ± 30.5 (Group 1) and 34.2 ± 35.8 (Group 2) after 1 week (P = 0.090), through 83.1 ± 8.0 and 57.2 ± 32.4 at 1 month (P = 0.0005), to 92.1 ± 4.5 and 74.4 ± 23.1 Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study letters after 6 months (P = 0.0005). More than 6-month incidences of proliferative vitreoretinopathy (13.1% vs. 28.6%; P = 0.13) were similar, whereas the redetachment rate (9.8% vs. 32.1%; P = 0.014), the incidence of secondary epiretinal membranes (1.6% vs. 35.7%; P = 0.0005), and the revitrectomy rate were lower in group 1 (9.8% vs. 53.6%; P = 0.0005).

Conclusion:

Inner limiting membrane peeling during vitrectomy for macula-involving retinal detachment may substantially contribute to the visual recovery, reducing the incidence of secondary epiretinal membrane formation.
Supraciliary Implant Placement and Postoperative Suprachoroidal Hemorrhage After Nonpenetrating Deep Sclerectomy
Authors: Rebolleda Gema , Martínez Compadre Alberto , Navero J.M. , Antón Alfonso
Published: February 2018

Purpose:

The purpose if this study was to evaluate the clinical characteristics and risk factors of 3 eyes (3 patients), with primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG), in whom a postoperative suprachoroidal hemorrhage (SCH) occurred after a previous nonpenetrating deep sclerectomy (NPDS) augmented with a supraciliary nonabsorbable implant placement.

Methods and Surgical Technique:

This is a report of 3 eyes of the 3 patients who underwent NPDS in 3 different centers, by 3 experienced surgeons, and were the only ones to develop postoperative SCH in the last 18 years. All were operated with a one-third thickness outer scleral flap measuring 5×5 mm2 dissected until it reached 1 to 2 mm into the clear cornea. Mitomycin C (MMC, 0.02%) was applied for 1 minute and an inner scleral flap measuring 4×4 mm2 was dissected leaving only 10% of scleral thickness below. Then, the inner wall of Schlemm canal was removed. A supraciliary implant, T-flux (Carl Zeiss Meditec, Zeiss, Spain) in case 2 and Esnoper (AJL Ophthalmics SA, Miñano, Spain) in cases 1 and 3, was placed through a full-thickness escleral incission 2 mm behind the scleral spur.

Results:

Three eyes with uncontrolled primary open-angle glaucoma had a delayed SCH after an uneventful NPDS. Time lapse from filtering surgery to the SCH ranged from 12 hours in case number 1, to 3 weeks in case 3. Several risk factors for DSH were present, but the only common clinical feature for all of them, was the nonabsorbable implant that was placed in the supraciliary space. A Hema implant (Esnoper) was used in 2 eyes (cases 1 and 3), and T-flux, was implanted in the case 2. Case 1 required vitreoretinal surgery and had poor visual outcome, but cases 2 and 3 recovered with conservative treatment.

Conclusions:

Although taking the potential bias arising from the nature of the current cases report into consideration, supraciliary placement of the implant in NPDS could be a risk factor for SCH. Consequently, it seems reasonable to avoid it, especially in the presence of other best recognized factors.
Late Spontaneous Dislocation of an Ab Interno Gelatin Microstent
Authors: Boese Erin A. , Shah Manjool
Published: February 2018

Purpose:

To report a case of spontaneous dislocation of a gelatin microstent 6 months after the initial uncomplicated surgery.

Patients and Methods:

We describe a 73-year-old man with a history of advanced primary open-angle glaucoma who had previously undergone an unsuccessful micropulse transcleral cyclophotocoagulation of the left eye. He underwent an uncomplicated combined phacoemulsification with an ab interno gelatin microstent, but was noted to have a spontaneous dislocation of the microstent 6 months postoperatively.

Results:

His postoperative course was largely unremarkable. He underwent a total of 5 bleb needlings, 1 immediately postoperatively because of intra-Tenon’s positioning of the microstent. At his 6-month follow-up, he had a needling with both 5-flurouracil and subconjunctival bevacizumab. Despite postprocedural gonioscopy confirmation of the microstent positioning, the patient returned 1 week later with a fully dislocated microstent. The dislocation was asymptomatic, and his intraocular pressure remained in the single digits.

Conclusions:

The ab interno gelatin microstent is a promising new procedure, but presents unique challenges. As the procedure is still new, more complications are expected to come to light. Although gelatin microstent migration and dislocation appears to be rare, it is important to recognize this postoperative complication. To our knowledge, this is the first report of a spontaneous dislocation of the gelatin microstent without a clear inciting event. This case reiterates the importance of continued follow-up of these cases, and will hopefully help begin to shed light on preoperative considerations and patient selection.
Growth Factors, Oxidative Damage, and Inflammation in Exfoliation Syndrome
Authors: Borrás Teresa
Published: February 2018

Exfoliation syndrome (XFS) produces deleterious ocular aging and has protean systemic manifestations. Local ocular production of TGFβ1 is of central importance in XFS. TGFβ1 appears to induce the expression of LOXL1 and the production of other extracellular matrix components which are known to be present in exfoliation material. Furthermore, results from several studies find that the aqueous humor of exfoliation glaucoma patients exhibits a decreased antioxidant defense and increased oxidative stress systems. Finally, studies show that the levels of interleukin-6 and interleukin-8 in the aqueous humor of XFS patients were 3-fold higher than in controls. Overall TGFβ1, as well as a prooxidative and proinflammatory environment seems to play an important role in XFS.
Bereaved Caregivers to Patients With High-Grade Glioma: A Qualitative Explorative Study
Authors: Piil Karin , Jarden Mary
Published: February 2018

Purpose: The disease and treatment trajectory of patients with high-grade glioma is a burdensome period for the patients’ closest relatives who become informal caregivers. Caregivers experiencing this demanding shift in role are at risk of developing symptoms such as depression. Few studies have explored the needs and experiences of bereaved caregivers, and there is lack of evidence-based practice. This study explores the perspectives of newly bereaved caregivers to patients with high-grade glioma on end-of-life caregiving and bereavement. Methods: This qualitative exploratory study was composed of individual semistructured telephone interviews with bereaved caregivers (n = 8) to patients with high-grade glioma who deceased during participation in the mixed-methods Neuro-oncological Rehabilitation study. A thematic analysis was conducted following Braun and Clarke’s guidelines. Results: Four main themes were identified concerning the bereavement experience: (1) late-stage caregiving is comprehensive and taxing, (2) releasing the responsibility of the primary caregiving role, (3) feelings of grief and relief, and (4) suggestions for clinical practice. Conclusion: Late-stage caregiving is a difficult and challenging experience at the end of an already burdening treatment trajectory. Caregivers prefer to actively share responsibility and practical tasks with professionals, family, and friends. The bereaved caregivers’ key areas of concern indicate the need for additional research in advance care planning within neuro-oncology caregiving to establish evidence-based practice guidelines and recommendations.
New Opportunities for Cancer Health Services Research
Authors: Thomas Kali S. , Boyd Eric , Mariotto Angela B. , Penn Dolly C. , Barrett Michael J. , Warren Joan L.
Published: February 2018

Background:

The Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results (SEER)-Medicare data combine clinical information from population-based cancer registries with Medicare claims. These data have been used in many studies to understand cancer screening, treatment, outcomes, and costs. However, until recently, these data included limited information related to the characteristics and outcomes of cancer patients residing in or admitted to nursing homes.

Objectives:

To provide an overview of the new linkage between SEER-Medicare data and the Minimum Data Set (MDS), a nursing home resident assessment instrument detailing residents’ physical, psychological, and psychosocial functioning as well as any therapies or treatments received.

Research Design:

This is a descriptive, retrospective cohort study.

Subjects:

Persons in SEER-Medicare diagnosed with cancer from 2004 to 2013 were linked to the 2011–2014 MDS, with 17% of SEER-Medicare patients linked to the MDS data. During 2011–2014, we identified 318,617 cancer patients receiving care in a nursing home and 256,947 cancer patients newly admitted to a total of 10,953 nursing homes. Of these patients, approximately two thirds were Medicare fee-for-service beneficiaries.

Results:

The timing from cancer diagnoses to nursing home admission varied by cancer. In total, 93% of all patients were admitted directly to a nursing home from an acute care hospital. The majority of patients were cognitively intact, 21% reported some level of depression, and 9% had severe functional limitations.

Conclusions:

The new SEER-Medicare-MDS dataset provides a valuable resource for understanding the postacute and long-term care experiences of cancer patients receiving care in United States’ nursing homes.
Effect of an Evidence-based Inpatient Tobacco Dependence Treatment Service on 30-, 90-, and 180-Day Hospital Readmission Rates
Authors: Cartmell Kathleen B. , Dooley Mary , Mueller Martina , Nahhas Georges J. , Dismuke Clara E. , Warren Graham W. , Talbot Vince , Cummings K. Michael
Published: February 2018

Introduction:

Smoking is a risk factor for hospitalization and interferes with patient care due to its effects on pulmonary function, wound healing, and interference with treatments and medications. Although benefits of stopping smoking are well-established, few hospitals provide tobacco dependence treatment services (TDTS) due to cost, lack of mandatory tobacco cessation standards and lack of evidence demonstrating clinical and financial benefits to hospitals and insurers for providing services.

Methods:

This study explored the effect of an inpatient TDTS on 30-, 90-, and 180-day hospital readmissions. To carry out this work, 3 secondary datasets were linked, which included clinical electronic health record data, tobacco cessation program data, and statewide health care utilization data. Odds ratios (ORs) were calculated using inverse propensity score–weighted logistic regression models, with program exposure as the primary independent variable and 30 (90 and 180)-day readmission rates as the dependent variable, and adjustment for putative covariates.

Results:

Odds of readmission were compared for patients who did and did not receive TDTS. At 30 days postdischarge, smokers exposed to the TDTS had a lower odds of readmission (OR=0.77, P=0.031). At 90 and 180 days, odds of readmission remained lower in the TDTS group (ORs=0.87 and 0.86, respectively), but were not statistically significant.

Discussion:

Findings from the current study, which are supported by prior studies, provide evidence that delivery of TDTS is a strategy that may help to reduce hospital readmissions.
Suicide Behavior and Chronic Pain
Authors: Legarreta Margaret , Bueler Elliott , DiMuzio Jennifer , McGlade Erin , Yurgelun-Todd Deborah
Published: February 2018

This study examined differences in suicidal ideation (SI) and suicide attempts (SAs) among veterans with chronic pain. Pain-specific variables, including catastrophic thinking, disability, and sensory, affective, and evaluative pain descriptors, were a focus. Structured diagnostic and clinical interviews were conducted to examine SI/SA and mental health. Veterans completed the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-IV and the Columbia–Suicide Severity Rating Scale to assess Axis I symptoms and suicidal behavior(s). Self-report questionnaires were used to evaluate the participants' subjective experience of chronic pain, which included the McGill Pain Questionnaire, Pain Catastrophizing Scale, and Pain Disability Index. The findings add to previous literature by suggesting pain-related catastrophic thinking specifically is related to elevated risk for SA, whereas affective and sensory pain are associated with SI. The study results support the need to assess pain from a multifaceted perspective and to examine the different experiences of pain, such as sensory and affective constructs, when discussing suicide risk in veterans.
Autopsy Case of a Penetrating Wound to the Left Cerebral Hemisphere Caused by an Accidental Shooting With a Crossbow
Authors: Kondo Takeshi , Takahashi Motonori , Kuse Azumi , Morichika Mai , Nakagawa Kanako , Tagawa Yoshihiro , Taniguchi Tomoya , Taguchi Yuji , Fujiwara Tomohiro , Tsuchiya Junpei , Nakamura Masahiko , Sakurada Makoto , Asano Migiwa , Ueno Yasuhiro
Published: February 2018

A crossbow is a bow that shoots an arrow when a gun-like trigger is pulled. Deaths caused by accidental crossbow shootings are extremely rare. Here we describe an autopsy case of a penetrating wound to the left cerebral hemisphere caused by an accidental shooting with a crossbow. A man in his early 60s who lived with his wife and had used crossbows for 20 years as his hobby was found one early morning in the shed of his house, collapsed and bleeding from the head and neck. He was taken to a hospital and died after approximately 3 days of conservative treatment. At autopsy, a penetrating wound between the upper part of the left anterior neck and the left frontoparietal region was evident. Traumatic intracerebral hematoma was observed in the left frontal lobe, and severe traumatic subarachnoid hemorrhage was present throughout the brain. Cerebral contusion and hematoma without any organization were noted around the penetration. The cause of death was determined to be cerebral contusion and intracerebral hematoma due to the penetrating wound by the crossbow arrow. He was probably trying to load an arrow into the crossbow by placing it on the floor, pointing upward, and made a mistake in its operation that resulted in the shooting of the arrow. This case is unique because it was a rare accidental death caused by a crossbow arrow, and a detailed histopathological examination was performed.
Multimodality Imaging Findings of Metaplastic Breast Carcinomas
Authors: Kim Hyun Jeong , Kim Shin Young , Huh Sun
Published: February 2018

Metaplastic carcinoma is a rare subtype of breast cancer that comprises histologically diverse malignancies. Metaplastic carcinoma tends to have an aggressive clinical presentation, high metastatic potential, and more chances of local recurrence, as compared with intraductal carcinoma. Although many clinical and pathologic finding have been reported, to our knowledge, there are few reports of imaging findings for this type of tumor.

In this study, we reviewed data of 5 patients with histopathologically proven metaplastic breast carcinoma. Multimodality imaging findings including those from mammography, ultrasonography, magnetic resonance imaging, and positron emission tomography–computed tomography were recorded.

The results indicated that metaplastic carcinomas tend to show more benign imaging features such as round or oval shape with circumscribed margins and less axillary lymph node metastasis compared with invasive ductal carcinoma. High signal intensity on T2-weighted magnetic resonance imaging due to its cystic or necrotic component may be useful for diagnosis of metaplastic carcinoma.
Molecular epidemiology of Bordetella pertussis in Greece, 2010–2015
Authors: Petridou Evangelia , Jensen Christel Barker , Arvanitidis Athanasios , Giannaki-Psinaki Maria , Michos Athanasios , Krogfelt Karen Angeliki , Petersen Randi Føns
Published: February 2018

Purpose. To determine the predominant strains of Bordetella pertussis in Greece during 2010–2015.

Methodology. Infants and children (n=1150) (15 days to 14 years) of Greek, Roma and immigrant origin with different vaccination statuses were hospitalized in Athens, Greece with suspected pertussis infection. IS481/IS1001 real-time PCR confirmed Bordetella spp./B. pertussis infection in 300 samples. A subset of samples (n=153) were analysed by multi-locus variable number tandem repeat analysis (MLVA) and (n=25) by sequence-based typing of the toxin promotor region (ptxP) on DNA extracted from clinical specimens.

Results/Key findings. A complete MLVA profile was determined in 66 out of 153 samples; the B. pertussis MLVA type 27 (n=55) was the dominant genotype and all tested samples (n=25) expressed the ptxP3 genotype. The vaccine coverage in the Greek population was 90 %; however, the study population expressed complete coverage in 2 out of 264 infants (0–11 months) and in 20 out of 36 children (1–14 years). Roma and immigrant minorities represent 7 % of the Greek population, but make up 50 % of the study population, indicating a low vaccine coverage among these groups.

Conclusions. The B. pertussis MT27 and ptxP3 genotype is dominant in Greek, Roma and immigrant infants and children hospitalized in Greece. Thus, the predominant MLVA genotype in Greece is similar to other countries using acellular vaccines.
ZFX acts as a transcriptional activator in multiple types of human tumors by binding downstream from transcription start sites at the majority of CpG island promoters
Authors: Rhie Suhn Kyong , Yao Lijun , Luo Zhifei , Witt Heather , Schreiner Shannon , Guo Yu , Perez Andrew A. , Farnham Peggy J.
Published: February 2018

High expression of the transcription factor ZFX is correlated with proliferation, tumorigenesis, and patient survival in multiple types of human cancers. However, the mechanism by which ZFX influences transcriptional regulation has not been determined. We performed ChIP-seq in four cancer cell lines (representing kidney, colon, prostate, and breast cancers) to identify ZFX binding sites throughout the human genome. We identified roughly 9000 ZFX binding sites and found that most of the sites are in CpG island promoters. Moreover, genes with promoters bound by ZFX are expressed at higher levels than genes with promoters not bound by ZFX. To determine if ZFX contributes to regulation of the promoters to which it is bound, we performed RNA-seq analysis after knockdown of ZFX by siRNA in prostate and breast cancer cells. Many genes with promoters bound by ZFX were down-regulated upon ZFX knockdown, supporting the hypothesis that ZFX acts as a transcriptional activator. Surprisingly, ZFX binds at +240 bp downstream from the TSS of the responsive promoters. Using Nucleosome Occupancy and Methylome Sequencing (NOMe-seq), we show that ZFX binds between the open chromatin region at the TSS and the first downstream nucleosome, suggesting that ZFX may play a critical role in promoter architecture. We have also shown that a closely related zinc finger protein ZNF711 has a similar binding pattern at CpG island promoters, but ZNF711 may play a subordinate role to ZFX. This functional characterization of ZFX provides important new insights into transcription, chromatin structure, and the regulation of the cancer transcriptome.
Promotion of secure software development assimilation: stimulating individual motivation
Authors: Song Mingqiu , Wang Penghua , Yang Peng
Published: February 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to establish a Technology-Organization-Personality model of secure software development (SSD) innovation assimilation at the level of individual motivation. The model identifies individual psychological motivation, which influences innovation assimilation intention and behavior. It constitutes an organizational management view of SSD innovation assimilation from individual psychological motivation perspective.

Design/methodology/approach

An empirical study was employed to verify the assumption model. Semi-structured user interviews were conducted with some security experts to consult their advice and obtain the measurement scales. And questionnaires were circulated at a focus group meeting and among some software security professionals by email. Of 230 questionnaires that were answered, 215 could be used. IBM SPSS 19.0 and AMOS 17.0 were used alternately to analyze the data. Structural equation model was employed to verify the hypotheses of the model.

Findings

Results reveal that two types of individual motivation can influence SSD innovation assimilation, namely, potential organization support and individual needs. Furthermore, absorption capability was found to play a regulated function in the transition of SSD assimilation intention to behavior.

Originality/value

The findings reveal how individual motivation plays an important role in promoting complex innovation assimilation. It fills the gap of the research on organizational assimilation behavior and individual motivation in the context of SSD complex innovation, and provides management of software development organization with empirically based conceptualization to guide their personnel incentive policymaking.
New product launch actions and firm performance
Authors: Liu Yang , Cheng Peng , Zhao Dingtao
Published: February 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the effect of new product launch actions and firm reputation on firm performance in the Chinese auto industry.

Design/methodology/approach

This analysis adopts empirical data from 66 auto firms in China’s auto market from 2007 to 2012 to explore how new product launch actions undertaken by a firm can contribute to achieving superior performance and to investigate the relationships between new product launch actions and firm performance. Moreover, how firm reputation interacts with new product launch actions to affect firm performance is also investigated. Fixed effects regression model following the Hausman specification test was used to quantitatively examine the relationship.

Findings

It was concluded that the focal firm’s new product launch actions, including new product launch breadth, complexity and heterogeneity of its new repertoire of product launch actions, and firm reputation can impact its performance. Firm reputation can impact the signaling process and the capability of firms to enhance their performance via new product launch movements.

Originality/value

This research contributes to new product launch research by providing a more comprehensive view of competitive dynamic actions by which a firm’s performance is strengthened by examining the effects of two factors that affect performance. These factors are as follows: the characteristics in terms of breadth, complexity, and heterogeneity of new product launch actions undertaken by a firm and the characteristic of firm reputation.
Determinant factors of competitiveness in the hotel sector: the case of Portugal
Authors: Nunes Sara , Estevão Cristina , Nicolau Filipe Maria
Published: February 2018

Purpose

Competitiveness has been the objective of investigation in tourism in general, and particularly in hospitality, by many researchers in the past decades. The purpose of this study is to identify which main factors are considered crucial for the increase of competitiveness in hospitality, by applying the Porter’s diamond model to this sector.

Design/methodology/approach

The methodology used in the study required the use of primary data from which the authors obtained 285 responses from companies related to hospitality in Portugal. In the processing of data, the authors used a structural equation model.

Findings

The results showed that “government policies”, “factor conditions”, “related and supporting industries” and “cooperation and innovation” were determinant factors of the competitiveness of the sector.

Originality/value

Despite the importance of competitiveness in hospitality, the number of studies focused on the empirical validation models of competitiveness, applied to the hospitality industry, is still incipient. This study contributes to fill this gap.
A case study on Malaysia and Singapore
Authors: Tan Khee Giap , Chuah Hui Yin , Luu Nguyen Trieu Duong
Published: February 2018

Purpose

Malaysia and Singapore had parted more than five decades ago. Much of the existing literature concerned about the bilateral ties between two economies focusing on the political economy perspective. This paper aims to provide insights on the economic development and prospects of Malaysia and Singapore at the national level. In addition, this paper also makes a pioneering attempt at conducting a comprehensive comparative analysis between Malaysia and Singapore at the city level.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper offers a case study of Malaysia and Singapore by assessing their national economic competitiveness, urban standards of living and quality of life. The paper leverages on a series of indices such as the competitiveness index for ASEAN-10, the cost of living, wages and purchasing power of ordinary residents, as well as the liveable cities index to perform the analysis.

Findings

In terms of national competitiveness, the analysis shows that Singapore and Malaysia have been leading the ASEAN region from 2000 onwards, being the top- and second-ranked, respectively. Malaysia still lags Singapore in several aspects such as attractiveness to foreign investors and standard of living, education and social stability despite insignificant differences in the ranking. City-level analysis shows that the cost of living in Singapore is almost double of that in Kuala Lumpur, although living in Singapore is more affordable owing to the higher wage rate received by the ordinary citizens.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to the literature in several ways. First, this paper assesses economic development in Singapore and Malaysia instead of focusing on cross-straits relations. Second, the study reflects the view that the improvement of standards of living and quality of life for ordinary residents is paramount to economic development. The competitiveness index and city-level benchmarks used in the paper reflect the standards of living and the quality-of-life dimensions. Third, the focus on city-level analysis in addition to conventional national-level analysis helps to provide policymakers with practical policy implications against the backdrop of rapid urbanisation.
Location and competitiveness in subsistence small businesses
Authors: Jardon Carlos M.
Published: February 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to analyse the location as root of the specificity of the sources of competitiveness in subsistence small businesses (SSBs) of wood industry to improve the situation of poverty and the different behaviour of subsistence entrepreneurs.

Design/methodology/approach

The research uses an exploratory analysis based on principal components in two phases and confirmatory analysis based on partial least square techniques applied to a sample of 113 small and medium enterprises of wood industry in Oberá, a region of Argentina.

Findings

The analysis evidences the use of competitiveness sources of SSBs and a double behaviour in SSBs according to subsistence threshold. Satisfactory SSBs use competitiveness sources to improve organizational and economic performance. Unsatisfactory SSBs find economic performance without relation to organizational performance.

Research limitations/implications

Data are cross-sectional, and in a conjuncture of economy expansion, future research should monitor the sample of firms using panel data to assess the development of relations. Sample is in a particular region and sector, and generalizations should be done carefully.

Practical implications

SSBs should raise the strategy integrating short and long term, which requires a strengthening of intellectual capital, especially in cooperation, professionalism and training. They could integrate and share a business community to develop competitive advantages of collective systemic.

Originality/value

The research shows the importance of the location for the competitiveness of SSBs and provides a classification of SSBs according to their performance.
Toward a conceptualization of perceived complaint handling quality in social media and traditional service channels
Authors: Sugathan Praveen , Rossmann Alexander , Ranjan Kumar Rakesh
Published: February 2018

Purpose

This study aims to conceptualize and test the effect of consumers’ perceptions of complaint handling quality (PCHQ) in both traditional and social media channels.

Design/methodology/approach

Study 1 systematically reviews the relevant literature and then carries out a consumer and manager survey. This approach aims to conceptualize the dimensionality of PCHQ. Study 2 tests the effect of PCHQ on key marketing outcomes. Using survey data from a German telecommunications company, the study provides an explanation for the differences in outcomes across traditional (hotline) and social media channels.

Findings

Study 1 reveals that PCHQ is best conceptualized as a five-dimensional construct with 15 facets. There are significant differences between customers and managers in terms of the importance attached to the various dimensions. The construct shows strong psychometric properties with high reliability and validity, thereby opening up opportunities to treat these facets as measurement indicators for the construct. Study 2 indicates that the effect of PCHQ on consumer loyalty and word-of-mouth (WOM) communication is stronger in social media than in traditional channels. Procedural justice and the overall quality of service solutions emerge as general dimensions of PCHQ because they are equally important in both channels. In contrast, interactional justice, distributive justice and customer effort have varying effects across the two channels.

Research limitations/implications

This study contributes to the understanding of a firm’s channel selection for complaint handling in two ways. First, it evaluates and conceptualizes the PCHQ construct. Second, it compares the effects of different dimensions of PCHQ on key marketing outcomes across traditional and social media channels.

Practical implications

This study enables managers to understand the difference in efficacy attached to different dimensions of PCHQ. It further highlights such differences across traditional and social media service channels. For example, the effect of complaint handling on social media is of particular importance when generating WOM communication.

Originality/value

This study offers a comprehensive conceptualization of the PCHQ construct and reveals the general and channel contingent effects of its different dimensions on key marketing outcomes.
Man vs machine
Authors: Powell Adam , Noble Charles H. , Noble Stephanie M. , Han Sumin
Published: February 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the use of technology in customer relationship management (CRM) support capabilities by using an environmental contingency perspective. By examining the moderating effects of micro- and macro-environmental characteristics in which CRM support capabilities are used, the authors seek to extend the literature on CRM technology effectiveness in both customer commitment and overall firm performance. The authors also seek to advance managerial knowledge about CRM support capability technology utilization strategies in various market offering and dynamic market settings.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors utilized a questionnaire to collect data from a sample of 276 small business CRM managers across a wide range of industries. Measures were adapted from the existing literature, and these were largely multiple-item measures of latent variables. The hypotheses were tested using a combination of Ridge regression and a bootstrapping test of mediation. In addition, residual centering was used to reduce multi-collinearity in the interaction analysis.

Findings

The contingency/fit analysis performed in this research highlights the complex nature of the use of technology in CRM support capabilities. The benefits of a man vs a machine CRM support capability depend on the support function (whether marketing, sales, service, data access or data analysis), as well as upon the characteristics of the operating environment. Machine-based marketing support is positively related with customer commitment in turbulent markets, and machine-based service support is preferred in technologically turbulent markets. Sales support, on the other hand, is positively related to customer commitment in technologically turbulent markets when performed by man rather than machine.

Practical implications

CRM support capabilities differ across firms and markets, thus a “one size fits all” approach is not appropriate. This research shows under what conditions a machine-based approach to CRM can be effective for small businesses.

Originality/value

This research is the first to consider market offering and turbulence variables as moderators of the relationship between technology use in CRM support capabilities and customer commitment. Taking this contingency approach, the authors find that resource-based competitive advantage is obtainable based on the fit of the resources (e.g. CRM capabilities) to the environmental characteristics of the firm. Through this perspective that is unique to CRM research, the authors are able to provide both general and specific recommendations to managers and researchers.
A comparative study of two interventions to support reading comprehension in primary-aged students
Authors: Sorrell David , Brown Gavin T.L.
Published: February 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the explicit teaching of information text schema with vocabulary instruction to primary-aged students in Hong Kong international education.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected through three quasi-experimental studies with different age groups and participants. Each study divided participants into two randomly assigned groups, either informational texts (IT) or vocabulary building (VB). Impact was evaluated with gain scores on a standardized reading comprehension test and researcher-designed cloze tests of fiction and nonfiction passages.

Findings

The explicit teaching of IT can benefit student reading comprehension from an early age, particularly to first language (L1) English students and possibly second language (L2) English learners. School reading programmes should include opportunities for students to experience IT (nonfiction) and fiction materials, and build their vocabulary through incidental learning and explicit teaching. For IT, they should be exposed to: layout – e.g., headings, sub-headings, glossary, and index; and content – photographs and specific/technical vocabulary. For fiction-based texts and VB, the following themes should be covered by younger aged students: antonyms, synonyms, and affixes.

Research limitations/implications

Several limitations apply to this study which will need to be addressed in future studies. These include: the random sampling of students from the overall student population was not an option, given the necessity of voluntary participation and avoiding disruption to school routines. This study used meta-analysis to aggregate results across multiple comparisons largely because of the extremely small samples available. The data show large standard errors as a consequence of small numbers of participants. Hence, the current results, notwithstanding the power of meta-analysis, need to be validated with much larger samples in future studies.

Originality/value

This paper suggests that greater comprehension and cloze performance among L1 students was found due to the teaching of IT compared to vocabulary training, with the reverse result for L2 English learners.