bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Demonstration web‐portal for tourism enterprises
Authors: Chib Sanjay , Cheong France
Published: October 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe multiple case studies based on free/open‐source software (F/OSS) web applications. F/OSS web applications were deployed to create a demo web‐portal for Swiss small‐ and medium‐sized tourism enterprises (SMTEs). The web‐portal will demonstrate web applications for the purpose of F/OSS awareness and their subsequent trials.

Design/methodology/approach

Multiple case studies using rapid prototyping methods to deploy F/OSS web applications were used.

Findings

It was found that a web‐portal for increasing awareness and enabling interactive trials in the context of web applications suited to service organisations such as the SMTEs would enable further investigation regarding F/OSS adoption in the SMTE community.

Research limitations/implications

Major components deployed in developing a web‐portal provide a limited set of trials and do not represent the wide range of F/OSS applications which might be applicable to the SMTE community.

Originality/value

F/OSS applications, especially web‐based business applications, are increasingly being adopted for commercial purposes. However, building awareness and enabling exploration of such applications in the context of SMTEs is still a rare occurrence.
The influence of demographic factors on consumer attitudes and intentions to use RFID technologies in the US hotel industry
Authors: Aluri Ajay , Palakurthi Radesh
Published: October 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the influence of demographic factors (age, gender, education, income) on consumer attitudes and their intentions to use radio frequency identification (RFID) in the hotel industry.

Design/methodology/approach

Quantitative research methodology was used in this study. The methods used for this study are both descriptive and causal modeling tests. This research study used web‐survey method for collecting and analyzing data. The measurement model was assessed using confirmatory factor analysis using the maximum likelihood method and structural equation modeling was used to estimate the parameters of the structural model.

Findings

The results indicate that there are few differences in consumer attitudes and intentions in terms of the demographic factors. It can be concluded that consumer differences can be associated with consumer attitudes that are determined by age. The results for demographic factors, gender, income, and education levels indicate no difference in the attitudes and intentions of consumers to use RFIDs.

Research limitations/implications

Considering the fact that “trendy and hip” hotels are emerging in the industry, it is vital to understand the perceptions of Gen Y and Gen Z on specific RFIDs. A future research to study the influence of consumer demographics on security and privacy concerns is highly recommended in the hotel industry. The study may not have the complete list of population members who are frequent travelers in the US hotel industry.

Practical implications

Older consumer may consider themselves too old, less innovative, and having low cognitive capabilities to use RFIDs. Hotel organizations may provide familiar RFIDs to young consumers. The costs of RFID technologies are diminishing and hotels can offer RFIDs that enhances user benefits and experience. On the other side, hotels can use RFIDs to improve efficiency and employee performance.

Originality/value

This study provided significant insights by empirically investigating consumer differences and its influence on attitudes and intentions to use RFIDs. The results of this study fill the gaps in understanding consumer behavior to use RFIDs in the hotel industry. In addition, exploring consumer attitudes and intentions to use RFIDs could facilitate hotel organizations to make right investment decisions on RFIDs.
Catching the long tail: competitive advantage through distribution strategy
Authors: Day Jonathon , Ward Liz , Choi Suh‐hee , Zhao Chen (Zara)
Published: October 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the demand curve for information on tourism destinations and accommodation. The current study compares the demand curves for this information to trends described by Chris Anderson as the “long tail”.

Design/methodology/approach

The current study examines the demand for information about accommodation establishments and destinations in Australia through the Australian Tourism Data Warehouse (ATDW). The study examines the demand for information received through the ATDW in 2009 for 5,600 Australian destinations and over 33,200 accommodation listings. Demand for information was measured by page impressions (PIs). Over 10 million PIs were received for destinations and more than 17 million PIs were received for accommodation listings, all of which were examined.

Findings

The current research shows that both accommodation and destination demand curves display the extended demand curve typical of the long tail phenomenon. The analysis also shows that demand curves within the aggregate demand curve also follow “long tail” demand curves. The study contributes to understanding of the demand curve for tourism information for Australian product using the ATDW.

Originality/value

The paper provides analysis of tourism information demand in the context of the “long tail” phenomenon.
Influence of interactive thematic maps on tourist perceptions: a network analysis
Authors: Young Chung Jin , Anuar Faiz I. , Go Hanyoung , Gretzel Ulrike
Published: October 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to test if and how interactive thematic maps can encourage the formation of tourists' perceptual maps of attractions in a destination.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were derived from 365 online trip planners generated by users of the Amish Country web site from 1 August 2007 to 31 July 2008. Given the nature of the data set, network analysis techniques were used to analyze the data.

Findings

Network analysis findings demonstrate that the things to do (TTD) included in the interactive Heritage Trail map were more frequently bundled together in the saved trip plans than TTDs included in other sections of the web site. Further analysis suggests that some additional non‐Heritage TTDs could be included in the Heritage Trail map due to their perceptual proximity.

Practical implications

The findings provide evidence that interactive maps on web sites can play an important role in tourists' planning behavior, which has significant implications for online tourism marketing. The findings also provide insights as to how online behavioral data can be used to derive marketing intelligence.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the theoretical development of the role of interactive maps in travel planning and also illustrates the usefulness of network analysis for investigating tourism‐related issues.
Scenario‐based impact analysis of a power outage on healthcare facilities in Germany
Authors: Hiete Michael , Merz Mirjam , Schultmann Frank
Published: October 2011

Purpose

Power outages which may be triggered, for example, by natural hazards and system failures are a common phenomenon, associated with large impacts on society including the healthcare sector. Minimising adverse impacts effectively requires an analysis of possible impacts and the identification of measures aiming at reducing vulnerability and increasing resilience.

Design/methodology/approach

To systematically identify impacts as well as preparation, mitigation and recovery (PMR) measures, a moderated workshop with participants representing different healthcare sub‐sectors in Germany was conducted and complemented by semi‐structured interviews and a thorough analysis of literature. Impacts were determined for three scenarios of power outage duration, <8, 8‐24 and >24 hours.

Findings

Whereas hospitals are in general well prepared with respect to shorter outages, due to obligatory emergency power in Germany, outpatient medical care, nursing homes (NH) and, in particular, home‐care nursing are early affected. Failure of these sub‐sectors puts additional strains on hospitals. If outages last more than one day and are associated with failure of other critical infrastructures (CIs), especially water supply, hospitals may be severely affected. Effective preparation and mitigation measures identified based on a facility‐specific impact analysis, as well as good cooperation between actors, may reduce impacts.

Originality/value

The largely case‐study‐based literature is complemented by a systematic and extensive analysis of direct and indirect impacts on the main healthcare sub‐sectors in Germany, followed by an identification of specific PMR measures. As a novelty outage duration is explicitly accounted for. Also, interdependencies between the healthcare sub‐sectors as well as dependencies on other CI are considered.
Cognizant healthcare logistics management: ensuring resilience during crisis
Authors: VanVactor Jerry D.
Published: October 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to convey a message of preparedness and mitigation to key stakeholders throughout the healthcare community concerning healthcare supply chain readiness and preparedness.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a review of existent literature, this work examines and expounds upon the impact of effective supply chain management processes in disaster mitigation and planning.

Findings

This paper presents a discourse in supply chain managers' involvement in disaster planning, identifying courses of action, and collaboratively planning for crisis. Logistics is a specific genre of skill sets within healthcare operations.

Practical implications

Key tenets of logistics readiness and preparedness are often missed when developing strategies for disaster mitigation. While this discussion is directed specifically toward healthcare management, the principles are applicable across a wide array of industries.

Social implications

Disaster affects everyone and is likely to occur in any type of organization. Leaders have an inherent responsibility to plan for both expected and unexpected events; the latter can present complexities that require intuitive reaction provided scenarios have been considered in advance. Arguably, the critical path to success involves effective process management and collaborative communications across multiple echelons of managerial responsibilities.

Originality/value

Few works were found concerning healthcare supply chain management involvement in disaster readiness. In an applied sense, this paper provides healthcare managers with concepts related to effective crisis mitigation.
A framework for geographical surveillance of disease in China
Authors: Zhong Shaobo , Sun Zhanhui , Huang Quanyi , Cao Chunxiang
Published: October 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to address the urgent need for guiding the construction of information systems for disease surveillance and early warning, given the latest efforts of the report system of public health information over China.

Design/methodology/approach

A system framework for disease surveillance and early warning, based on disease clustering test and cluster detection techniques, geographical information system, network and communication is conceived. Through geographical surveillance analysis of severe acute respiratory syndrome occurring in Beijing in 2003, an application example of the framework is illustrated.

Findings

Through approaches such as integrating spatial‐time clustering test and cluster detection algorithms, spatial visualization, computer network, wireless communication, it is feasible to build a systematic, automatic, real‐time surveillance and early warning system for prevention and control of disease.

Research limitations/implications

The present study provides an underlying framework for the development of disease surveillance and early warning system enabling data acquisition, data analysis and alarm publishing.

Originality/value

The framework integrates report system of public health information, GIS and disease clustering test and cluster detection techniques into an application, which will significantly enhance the resilience of healthcare facilities. It is supposed to be implemented in near future and provides fundamental support for nation‐wide disease surveillance and early warning.
The UN‐Principles for Responsible Management Education
Authors: Alcaraz Jose M. , Wiktoria Marcinkowska Magdalena , Thiruvattal Eappen
Published: October 2011

Purpose

With more than 332 signatories, the United Nations Principles for Responsible Management Education (PRME) is probably the most solid initiative to inspire and champion responsible business education globally. The purpose of this paper is to examine the activities undertaken by the first intake of signatories – universities and business schools – with regard to each of the six principles (offering a systematic analysis and “distilled” categorization of those initiatives). It also aims to evaluate the difficulties and tensions that may be entailed in integrating PRME in both the strategic intent and daily operations of educational institutions, and how to overcome some of these. Finally, it aims to offer a critical reflection on the “non‐compliance and non regulatory/measurement” nature of PRME (the initiative assumes that signatories act on the basis of principled pragmatism), offering suggestions for improving the reporting mechanism on which the whole initiative is based.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors analyze the first 100 “Sharing Information on Progress” (SIP) reports uploaded to the PRME web site. These reports are the main mechanism established by the PRME Secretariat to build learning and accountability and allow signatories to communicate their progress. Elements from grounded theory and other qualitative analytical approaches were used to allow themes to emerge from within the (often messy and irregular) data from the reports. Graphical representations are also used.

Findings

Activities undertaken by PRME signatories are portrayed for each of the six principles: principle 1 on purpose (capabilities of students); principle 2 on values (incorporated in curriculum and academic activities); principle 3 on learning approaches; principle 4 on research (with sustainable, social, environmental and economic value); principle 5 on partnership (interaction with business managers); and principle 6 on dialogue (among key stakeholders). Tensions regarding ideology, integration and implementation are also identified, as well as possible weaknesses, e.g. on integrity, quality and reporting policies, in the current “SIP” framework.

Originality/value

This paper is the first scholarly work depicting comprehensively the activities of PRME signatories worldwide.
Business graduate skills in sustainability
Authors: Mather Glyn , Denby Leanne , Wood Leigh N. , Harrison Bronwen
Published: October 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to review research and strategies in Australian business education that aim to foster graduate capabilities in sustainability concepts and practices, also to present a case study of teaching practice along with ideas for future development.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors report on a research project by seven Australian universities, with financial support from the Australian Learning and Teaching Council (ALTC), on how to develop and grade graduate capabilities with sustainability identified as a core graduate skill. An example is presented from the Faculty of Business and Economics of a strategy in action – the use of a case study (centred on sustainability practices at the university) to enhance the skills of merit scholars.

Findings

Corporate social responsibility is a well‐established concept in business management theory, with sustainability principles emerging as a core feature. In the higher education sector, the spirit may be willing, but training in the application of these principles has been implemented as an add‐on rather than an embedded part of the curriculum. Although efforts are being made to find ways of nurturing graduate capabilities in sustainability practice, a significant obstacle is the lack of teaching models and materials. The authors offer findings from the ALTC graduate skills project as well as a case study of implementation.

Originality/value

The authors report on practical innovations in fostering business graduate skills in implementing sustainability principles, assess the utility of current education practice and present some suggestions for future learning and teaching strategies.
Towards the integration of sustainability in the business curriculum
Authors: Pratap Singh Tribhuvan , Bisht N.S. , Rastogi Megha
Published: October 2011

Purpose

Sustainability may be defined as a concept that activates the inner sense of individuals, companies and societies to initiate, promote and sustain practices to protect and enhance the human and natural resources needed by future generations to enjoy a quality of life equal to or greater than our own. To translate this vision into action, it takes time, efforts and sincere leadership and managerial commitments towards sustainable global development. Therefore, the role of business schools is critical in generating a work force to cater to such needs. The purpose of this paper is to focus on the top business schools in India which promote sustainability issues, exploring the challenges of incorporating sustainability in the business curriculum and practices developed by leading professors and business schools to address these issues.

Design/methodology/approach

A sample of 35 faculty members from 17 leading business schools of India forms the basis of this research. Data were collected through on‐line questionnaires, telephone interviews and in‐depth exploration of teaching plans and course materials.

Findings

The findings highlight the importance of sustainability issues within the business curriculum and the value of integrated case studies which provide a wider perspective to students. Faculty members face serious challenges in the conflict between monetary and sustainability orientations of the curriculum, maintaining students' interest, applying new pedagogical tools effectively, and including considerations of social costs and quality of life.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to existing knowledge about the practical challenges of designing and teaching sustainability issues through integrated courses. It also explores the effectiveness of innovative pedagogical tools to address such issues.
Developing strategic capacity in Olympic sport organisations
Authors: Robinson Leigh , Minikin Brian
Published: October 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to set out research that aimed to understand how the internal capabilities of Olympic sport organisations can be addressed.

Design/methodology/approach

The research was carried out by a mixed‐method, multi phase approach, using senior sport administrators in the Pacific region.

Findings

The research developed a tool for analysing the “readiness” of sport organisations to deliver programmes and services.

Research limitations/implications

This research has developed a framework for the internal diagnosis of organisations.

Practical implications

Managers can use the tool to inform their strategic planning.

Originality/value

The paper presents a new and unique tool for assessing organisational capacity.
Combinations of key determinants of performance in sport governing bodies
Authors: Winand Mathieu , Rihoux Benoît , Qualizza David , Zintz Thierry
Published: October 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to focus on possible combinations of the key determinants of high performance in sport governing bodies (SGBs) which go well beyond the net effects of independent variables.

Design/methodology/approach

The research focused on 18 sport governing bodies from the French‐speaking community of Belgium (CSGBs). Their strategic goals are emphasized and their potential determinants of performance are measured and assessed. Due to the small n‐sample and the causal complexity inherent in this research, a crisp‐set qualitative comparative analysis (csQCA) was performed.

Findings

Three generic combinations of the key determinants linked with high performance were highlighted. The first was high‐performing CSGBs that provide innovative activities for their membership and are proactive in elite sport services. The second was other high‐performing CSGBs of large size that involve paid staff in decision‐making processes and also develop innovative activities. The third was small‐sized governing bodies which, although they do not have extensive resources, could perform highly when they relied on volunteer leaders and delegates activities they were not able to deliver.

Research limitations/implications

Due to country and sport specificities, these results may not be generalized to all SGBs. Nevertheless, it is possible to argue that when trying to understand the performance of such complex nonprofit sport organizations, researchers and practitioners need to take into account combinations of factors, rather than independent performance variables.

Originality/value

Using an innovative mixed method design dealing with causal complexity – qualitative comparative analysis – the paper highlights combinations of factors observed in high performing SGBs.
International experiential diversity and performance at project organizations
Authors: Ruigrok Winfried , Greve Peder , Engeler Martin
Published: October 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to shed new light on the link between diversity in project teams and team performance by examining the effects of players’ international career diversity on the performance of national football teams.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper draws upon the literature on project organizations and experiential diversity in teams. Using data on players’ international career backgrounds and team performance from the FIFA World Cup 2006, the authors test two hypotheses linking experiential diversity in teams and a measure of relative team performance. The dataset includes detailed individual background profiles of the 736 participating players and performance data from the 64 games played at the tournament.

Findings

The findings suggest that different types of experiential diversity have contrasting effects on team performance in a time‐limited project team setting.

Research limitations/implications

These findings encourage team diversity researchers to further examine the impact of experiential diversity in teams on team process and performance outcomes in future research.

Practical implications

The findings particularly highlight the need to carefully manage experiential diversity in project team settings in order to benefit from access to diverse tacit resources, while at the same time avoiding that the integrative capacities of teams becoming overstretched.

Originality/value

The paper is a step towards a better understanding of how diversity of individual career backgrounds affects team performance outcomes in project teams.
Multidetector row helical computed tomography for invasive ductal carcinoma of the breast: Correlation between radiological findings and the corresponding biological characteristics of patients
Authors: Tamaki Kentaro , Ishida Takanori , Miyashita Minoru , Amari Masakazu , Mori Naoko , Ohuchi Noriaki , Tamaki Nobumitsu , Sasano Hironobu
Published: October 2011

The aim of this study is to evaluate the correlation between multidetector row helical computed tomography (MDCT) findings and the histopathological characteristics of patients with invasive ductal carcinoma. We retrospectively reviewed MDCT findings and the corresponding histopathological features of 442 women with invasive ductal carcinoma. We received informed consent from the patients and the protocol was approved by the Ethics Committee at Tohoku University. The median age was 53 years (26–89 years). We examined the MDCT findings based on mass shape classified into well, moderate, poorly and scattered demarcated shapes, the enhancement pattern classified into homogenous, heterogeneous, rim and poor, and mass density classified into high, intermediate or low. We subsequently compared these radiological findings with the histological characteristics and clinical outcome. Poorly demarcated types were higher in ER+/HER2− (P = 0.008), while the well‐demarcated type was higher in ER−/HER2− and ER−/HER2+ (P < 0.001 and P = 0.010). Rim pattern was higher in ER−/HER2− (P < 0.001). Intermediate or low density was higher in ER−/HER2− (P < 0.001, respectively). Further analysis based on histological grade, mitotic counts and lymphovascular invasion demonstrated that the well‐demarcated shape was higher in grade 2 and 3 (P = 0.006 and P < 0.001, respectively), and rim pattern was observed in grade 3 (P < 0.001). Regarding mitotic counts, poorly and scattered demarcated shapes were observed in score 1 (P = 0.008 and P = 0.014), while well‐demarcated shape and rim enhancement were observed in score 3 (P < 0.001, respectively). Lymphovascular invasion correlated with a moderate demarcated shape (P = 0.029). Regarding recurrence rates, there were statistically significant differences between well and moderate, poorly or scattered demarcated shapes (P = 0.007, 0.028 and 0.035, respectively). These proposed MDCT diagnostic criteria based on biological characteristics contribute to more accurately predicting the biological behavior of breast cancer patients. (Cancer Sci 2012; 103: 67–72)
Platelet doubling after the first azacitidine cycle is a promising predictor for response in myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS), chronic myelomonocytic leukaemia (CMML) and acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) patients in the Dutch azacitidine compassionate named patient programme
Authors: van der Helm Lieke H. , Alhan Canan , Wijermans Pierre W. , van Marwijk Kooy Marinus , Schaafsma Ron , Biemond Bart J. , Beeker Aart , Hoogendoorn Mels , van Rees Bastiaan P. , de Weerdt Okke , Wegman Jurgen , Libourel Ward J. , Luykx‐de Bakker Sylvia A. , Minnema Monique C. , Brouwer Rolf E. , Croon‐de Boer Fransien , Eefting Matthijs , Jie Kon‐Siong G. , van de Loosdrecht Arjan A. , Koedam Jan , Veeger Nic J. G. M , Vellenga Edo , Huls Gerwin
Published: October 2011

The efficacy of azacitidine in the treatment of high‐risk myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS), chronic myelomonocytic leukaemia (CMML) and acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) (20–30% blasts) has been demonstrated. To investigate the efficacy of azacitidine in daily clinical practice and to identify predictors for response, we analysed a cohort of 90 MDS, CMML and AML patients who have been treated in a Dutch compassionate named patient programme. Patients received azacitidine for a median of five cycles (range 1–19). The overall response rate (complete/partial/haematological improvement) was 57% in low risk MDS, 53% in high risk MDS, 50% in CMML, and 39% in AML patients. Median overall survival (OS) was 13·0 (9·8–16·2) months. Multivariate analysis confirmed circulating blasts [Hazard Ratio (HR) 0·48, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0·24–0·99; P = 0·05] and poor risk cytogenetics (HR 0·45, 95% CI 0·22–0·91; P = 0·03) as independent predictors for OS. Interestingly, this analysis also identified platelet doubling after the first cycle of azacitidine as a simple and independent positive predictor for OS (HR 5·4, 95% CI 0·73–39·9; P = 0·10). In conclusion, routine administration of azacitidine to patients with variable risk groups of MDS, CMML and AML is feasible, and subgroups with distinct efficacy of azacitidine treatment can be identified.
The potential role of Aurora kinase inhibitors in haematological malignancies
Authors: Farag Sherif S.
Published: October 2011

Aurora kinases play an important role in the control of the cell cycle and have been implicated in tumourigenesis in a number of cancers. Among the haematological malignancies, overexpression of Aurora kinases has been reported in acute myeloid leukaemia, chronic myeloid leukaemia, acute lymphoblastic leukaemia, multiple myeloma, aggressive non‐Hodgkin lymphoma and Hodgkin lymphoma. A large number of Aurora kinase inhibitors are currently in different stages of clinical development. In addition to varying in their selectivity for the different Aurora kinases, some also have activity directed at other cellular kinases involved in important molecular pathways in cancer cells. This review summarizes the biology of Aurora kinases and discusses why they may be good therapeutic targets in different haematological cancers. We describe preclinical data that has served as the rationale for investigating Aurora kinase inhibitors in different haematological malignancies, and summarize published results from early phase clinical trials. While the anti‐tumour effects of Aurora kinase inhibitors appear promising, we highlight important issues for future clinical research and suggest that the optimal use of these inhibitors is likely to be in combination with cytotoxic agents already in use for the treatment of various haematological cancers.
Cumulative flying time and risk of venous thromboembolism
Authors: MacCallum Peter K. , Ashby Deborah , Hennessy Enid M. , Letley Louise , Martin Jeannett , Mt‐Isa Shahrul , Vickers Madge R. , Whyte Ken
Published: October 2011

The risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) associated with cumulative flying time remains uncertain. In a case–control study in general practices throughout the UK, participants comprised 550 VTE cases identified from practice records and 1971 age‐ and gender‐matched controls. Participants returned identical questionnaires asking for information including air travel details. Compared to not flying, cumulative flying time >12 h within the previous 4 weeks was associated with a threefold increase in the risk of VTE [odds ratio (OR) 2·75, 95% confidence interval (CI), 1·44–5·28]. Those who had flown >4 h in a single leg in the previous 4 weeks had twice the risk of VTE (OR 2·20, 95% CI, 1·29–3·73). These risks were no longer evident by 12 weeks and were similar to those of day‐case or minor surgery (OR 5·35, 95% CI, 2·15–13·33). Equivalent risks for moderate and high‐risk surgery were over 30‐fold (OR 36·57, 95% CI, 13·05–102·52) and 140‐fold (OR 141·71, 95% CI, 19·38–1036·01) respectively. The temporary nature of the association of cumulative and long‐haul air travel with VTE suggests a causal relationship. The risks of VTE in those with a higher baseline risk due to surgery, previous VTE or obesity are further increased by air travel.
Time will tell: a retrospective study investigating the relationship between insomnia and objectively defined punctuality
Authors: SPIEGELHALDER KAI , REGEN WOLFRAM , KYLE SIMON D. , ENDRES DOMINIQUE , NISSEN CHRISTOPH , FEIGE BERND , RIEMANN DIETER
Published: October 2011

Primary insomnia is a prevalent sleep disorder affecting approximately 3% of the general population. Studies suggest that personality traits such as perfectionism and neuroticism might be implicated in the aetiology of the disorder. However, to date, no study has investigated behavioural indicators of these factors in a hypothesis‐driven manner. In the present study, we assessed punctuality as a behavioural indicator of perfectionism and neuroticism in 635 consecutive clinical patients of the sleep laboratory of the Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Freiburg Medical Center. The primary aim was to compare primary insomnia patients (n = 148) with another group of patients with other sleep‐related diagnoses (n = 487). Primary insomnia patients arrived on average 4 min earlier when compared to other patients (P = 0.041). However, this effect failed to reach statistical significance when correcting for the influence of potential confounding variables. Of note, we found a strong relationship between polysomnographic sleep parameters and punctuality. That is, short sleep duration was associated significantly with early arrival times at the sleep laboratory (P = 0.023). These findings support the proposal that personality traits, which we predict underlie obsessive punctuality, may be involved in the aetiology of objectively defined sleep disturbances. Clinical implications of the current results for cognitive behavioural treatments of insomnia are discussed.
Short‐term outcome after gluteus maximus myocutaneous flap reconstruction of the pelvic floor following extra‐levator abdominoperineal excision of the rectum
Authors: Anderin C. , Martling A. , Lagergren J. , Ljung A. , Holm T.
Published: October 2011

Aim  Extra‐levator abdominoperineal excision (APE) of the rectum has been introduced with the aim of improving the oncological outcome of low rectal cancer. The procedure includes resection of the levator muscles en bloc with the mesorectum, leaving a larger perineal defect than after conventional APE. This study reports short‐term outcome of gluteus maximus myocutaneous flap reconstruction on perineal wound healing.

Method  Sixty‐five patients were studied after extra‐levator APE and a one‐sided myocutaneous flap for a low or locally recurrent rectal cancer at the Karolinska University Hospital from January 2002 to December 2008. Fifty‐nine had received neoadjuvant radio‐ or radiochemotherapy. All perineal complications occurring within 30 days after surgery were registered. In addition, the status of the perineal reconstruction at 6 months and 1 year after surgery was assessed based on medical records from outpatient visits.

Results  Twenty‐seven (41.5%) patients had one or more perineal wound complications. A minor wound infection occurred in 15, while 12 had either a more severe infection with dehiscence or a pelvic abscess. The reconstruction was completely healed in 91% of the patients at 1 year.

Conclusion  Although the vast majority of the perineal reconstructions were healed at 1 year, the short‐term perineal wound complication rate of gluteus maximus flap reconstruction was high.
Metabolic Modulation of Cytokine‐Induced Brain Endothelial Adhesion Molecule Expression
Authors: CHAITANYA GANTA VIJAY , CROMER WALTER , WELLS SHANNON , JENNINGS MERILYN , MATHIS JAMES M , MINAGAR ALIREZA , ALEXANDER JONATHAN STEVEN
Published: October 2011

Please cite this paper as: Chaitanya GV, Cromer W, Wells S, Jennings M, Mathis JM, Minagar A and Alexander JS. Metabolic Modulation of Cytokine‐Induced Brain Endothelial Adhesion Molecule Expression. Microcirculation 19: 155–165, 2012.

Objective:  Cytokines contribute to cerebro‐vascular inflammatory and immune responses by inducing ECAMs’ expression. Ischemic insults can be separated into aglycemic and hypoxic components. However, whether aglycemia, hypoxia or OGD plays a major role in dysregulating BBB or promotes immune cell infiltration via ECAMs’ expression is not clear. We investigated how expression of ICAM‐1, VCAM‐1, MAdCAM‐1, PECAM‐1, E‐ and P‐selectin in response to TNF‐α, IL‐1β and IFN‐γ was altered by aglycemia (A), hypoxia (H) or combined oxygen glucose deprivation (OGD).

Methods:  A cell surface enzyme linked immunoabsorbent assay (cell surface ELISA) was used to analyze ECAM expression.

Results:  We observed that ICAM‐1 and PECAM‐1 expressions were insensitive to hypoxia, aglycemia or OGD. Conversely, VCAM‐1 and E‐selectin were increased by hypoxia, but not by aglycemia. MAdCAM‐1 and P‐selectin were induced by hypoxia, and decreased by aglycemia. Patterns of cytokine‐regulated ECAMs’ expression were also modified by metabolic conditions.

Conclusions:  Our results indicate that patterns of inflammation‐associated ECAMs represent cumulative influences from metabolic stressors, as well as cytokine activation. The expression of ECAMs following tissue injury reflects mechanistic interactions between metabolic disturbances, and alterations in tissue cytokines. Normalization of tissue metabolism, as well as cytokine profiles, may provide important targets for therapeutic treatment of inflammation.
Central command: control of cardiac sympathetic and vagal efferent nerve activity and the arterial baroreflex during spontaneous motor behaviour in animals
Authors: Matsukawa Kanji
Published: October 2011

Feedforward control by higher brain centres (termed central command) plays a role in the autonomic regulation of the cardiovascular system during exercise. Over the past 20 years, workers in our laboratory have used the precollicular–premammillary decerebrate animal model to identify the neural circuitry involved in the CNS control of cardiac autonomic outflow and arterial baroreflex function. Contrary to the traditional idea that vagal withdrawal at the onset of exercise causes the increase in heart rate, central command did not decrease cardiac vagal efferent nerve activity but did allow cardiac sympathetic efferent nerve activity to produce cardiac acceleration. In addition, central command‐evoked inhibition of the aortic baroreceptor–heart rate reflex blunted the baroreflex‐mediated bradycardia elicited by aortic nerve stimulation, further increasing the heart rate at the onset of exercise. Spontaneous motor activity and associated cardiovascular responses disappeared in animals decerebrated at the midcollicular level. These findings indicate that the brain region including the caudal diencephalon and extending to the rostral mesencephalon may play a role in generating central command. Bicuculline microinjected into the midbrain ventral tegmental area of decerebrate rats produced a long‐lasting repetitive activation of renal sympathetic nerve activity that was synchronized with the motor nerve discharge. When lidocaine was microinjected into the ventral tegmental area, the spontaneous motor activity and associated cardiovascular responses ceased. From these findings, we conclude that cerebral cortical outputs trigger activation of neural circuits within the caudal brain, including the ventral tegmental area, which causes central command to augment cardiac sympathetic outflow at the onset of exercise in decerebrate animal models.
The anoctamin family: TMEM16A and TMEM16B as calcium‐activated chloride channels
Authors: Scudieri Paolo , Sondo Elvira , Ferrera Loretta , Galietta Luis J. V.
Published: October 2011

The Ca2+‐activated Cl− channels (CaCCs) are involved in a variety of physiological functions, such as transepithelial anion transport, smooth muscle contraction and olfaction. Recently, the question of the molecular identity of CaCCs has apparently been resolved with the identification of TMEM16A protein (also known as anoctamin‐1). Expression of TMEM16A is associated with the appearance of Ca2+‐ and voltage‐dependent Cl− currents with properties similar to those of native CaCCs. The putative structure of TMEM16A consists of eight transmembrane domains, with both the amino‐ and the carboxy‐terminus protruding in the cytosol. TMEM16A is also characterized by the existence of different protein variants generated by alternative splicing. A close paralogue of TMEM16A, TMEM16B (anoctamin‐2), is also associated with CaCC activity, although with different properties. The TMEM16B‐dependent channels require higher intracellular Ca2+ concentrations and have faster activation and deactivation kinetics. Expression of other anoctamins is devoid of detectable channel activity. These proteins, such as TMEM16F (anoctamin‐6), may have different functions.
Breathing and vocal control: the respiratory system as both a driver and a target of telencephalic vocal motor circuits in songbirds
Authors: Schmidt Marc F. , McLean Judith , Goller Franz
Published: October 2011

The production of vocalizations is intimately linked to the respiratory system. Despite our understanding of neural circuits that generate normal respiratory patterns, very little is understood regarding how these pontomedullary circuits become engaged during vocal production. Songbirds offer a potentially powerful model system for addressing this relationship. Songs dramatically alter the respiratory pattern in ways that are often highly predictable, and songbirds have a specialized telencephalic vocal motor circuit that provides massive innervation to a brainstem respiratory network that shares many similarities with its mammalian counterpart. In this review, we highlight interactions between the song motor circuit and the respiratory system, describing how both systems are likely to interact to produce the complex respiratory patterns that are observed during vocalization. We also discuss how the respiratory system, through its bilateral bottom‐up projections to thalamus, might play a key role in sending precisely timed signals that synchronize premotor activity in both hemispheres.
Mapping the central neurocircuitry that integrates the cardiovascular response to exercise in humans
Authors: Basnayake Shanika D. , Green Alexander L. , Paterson David J.
Published: October 2011

There are abundant animal data attempting to identify the neural circuitry involved in cardiovascular control. Translating this research into humans has been made possible using functional neurosurgery during which deep brain stimulating electrodes are implanted into various brain nuclei for the treatment of chronic pain and movement disorders. This not only allows stimulation of the human brain, but also presents the opportunity to record neural activity from various brain regions. This symposium review highlights key experiments from the past decade that have endeavoured to identify the neurocircuitry responsible for integrating the cardiovascular response to exercise in humans. Two areas of particular interest are highlighted: the periaqueductal grey and the subthalamic nucleus. Our studies have shown that the periaqueductal grey (particularly the dorsal column) is a key part of the neurocircuitry involved in mediating autonomic changes adapted to ongoing behaviours. Emerging evidence also suggests that the subthalamic nucleus is not only involved in the control of movement, but also in the mediation of cardiovascular responses. Although these sites are unlikely to be the ‘command’ areas themselves, we have demonstrated that the two nuclei have the properties of being key integrating sites between the feedback signals from exercising muscle and the feedforward signals from higher cortical centres.
Evidence of Differences between the Communities of Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi Colonizing Galls and Roots of Prunus persica Infected by the Root-Knot Nematode Meloidogyne incognita
Authors: Alguacil Maria del Mar , Torrecillas Emma , Lozano Zenaida , Roldán Antonio
Published: October 2011

Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) play important roles as plant protection agents, reducing or suppressing nematode colonization. However, it has never been investigated whether the galls produced in roots by nematode infection are colonized by AMF. This study tested whether galls produced by
Meloidogyne incognita
infection in
Prunus persica
roots are colonized by AMF. We also determined the changes in AMF composition and biodiversity mediated by infection with this root-knot nematode. DNA from galls and roots of plants infected by
M. incognita
and from roots of noninfected plants was extracted, amplified, cloned, and sequenced using AMF-specific primers. Phylogenetic analysis using the small-subunit (SSU) ribosomal DNA (rDNA) data set revealed 22 different AMF sequence types (17
Glomus
sequence types, 3
Paraglomus
sequence types, 1
Scutellospora
sequence type, and 1
Acaulospora
sequence type). The highest AMF diversity was found in uninfected roots, followed by infected roots and galls. This study indicates that the galls produced in
P. persica
roots due to infection with
M. incognita
were colonized extensively by a community of AMF, belonging to the families Paraglomeraceae and Glomeraceae, that was different from the community detected in roots. Although the function of the AMF in the galls is still unknown, we hypothesize that they act as protection agents against opportunistic pathogens.
Stimulation of Methanotrophic Growth in Cocultures by Cobalamin Excreted by Rhizobia
Authors: Iguchi Hiroyuki , Yurimoto Hiroya , Sakai Yasuyoshi
Published: October 2011

Methanotrophs play a key role in the global carbon cycle, in which they affect methane emissions and help to sustain diverse microbial communities through the conversion of methane to organic compounds. To investigate the microbial interactions that cause positive effects on methanotrophs, cocultures were constructed usingMethylovulum miyakonenseHT12 and each of nine nonmethanotrophic bacteria, which were isolated from a methane-utilizing microbial consortium culture established from forest soil. Three rhizobial strains were found to strongly stimulate the growth and methane oxidation ofM. miyakonenseHT12 in cocultures. We purified the stimulating factor produced byRhizobiumsp. Rb122 and identified it as cobalamin. Growth stimulation by cobalamin was also observed for three other gammaproteobacterial methanotrophs. These results suggest that microbial interactions through cobalamin play an important role in methane oxidation in various ecosystems.
Tricholoma matsutake Dominates Diverse Microbial Communities in Different Forest Soils
Authors: Vaario Lu-Min , Fritze Hannu , Spetz Peter , Heinonsalo Jussi , Hanajík Peter , Pennanen Taina
Published: October 2011

Fungal and actinobacterial communities were analyzed together with soil chemistry and enzyme activities in order to profile the microbial diversity associated with the economically important mushroom
Tricholoma matsutake
. Samples of mycelium-soil aggregation (shiro) were collected from three experimental sites where sporocarps naturally formed. PCR was used to confirm the presence and absence of matsutake in soil samples. PCR-denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE) fingerprinting and direct sequencing were used to identify fungi and actinobacteria in the mineral and organic soil layers separately. Soil enzyme activities and hemicellulotic carbohydrates were analyzed in a productive experimental site. Soil chemistry was investigated in both organic and mineral soil layers at all three experimental sites. Matsutake dominated in the shiro but also coexisted with a high diversity of fungi and actinobacteria.
Tomentollopsis
sp. in the organic layer above the shiro and
Piloderma
sp. in the shiro correlated positively with the presence of
T. matsutake
in all experimental sites. A
Thermomonosporaceae
bacterium and
Nocardia
sp. correlated positively with the presence of
T. matsutake
, and
Streptomyces
sp. was a common cohabitant in the shiro, although these operational taxonomic units (OTUs) did not occur at all sites. Significantly higher enzyme activity levels were detected in shiro soil. These enzymes are involved in the mobilization of carbon from organic matter decomposition. Matsutake was not associated with a particular soil chemistry compared to that of nearby sites where the fungus does not occur. The presence of a significant hemicellulose pool and the enzymes to degrade it indicates the potential for obtaining carbon from the soil rather than tree roots.