bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Validation of a 2-Point Limited Sampling Strategy to Predict the Tacrolimus Area-Under-the-12-Hour-Curve in Kidney Transplant Recipients
Authors: Vadcharavivad Somratai , Susomboon Teerada , Kulabusaya Busaya , Avihingsanon Yingyos , Praditpornsilpa Kearkiat , Townamchai Natavudh
Published: June 2016

Background:

Limited sampling strategies (LSS) have been proposed for predicting total exposure of tacrolimus, a widely used immunosuppressant in transplantation. This study aims to validate the equation developed by Wong et al for estimation of the tacrolimus area-under-the-concentration-over-12-hour-curve (AUC0-12) and to assess the effects of hemoglobin and duration of tacrolimus therapy on predictive performance of the equation in adult kidney transplant recipients.

Methods:

Seven time point blood concentration profiles were collected from 31 stable kidney transplant recipients who received oral tacrolimus twice daily. The chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay method was used to determine the tacrolimus concentration. Measured AUC0-12 (AUCm) was calculated by the linear trapezoidal rule. Predicted AUC0-12 (AUCp) was calculated using the equation that used tacrolimus concentrations measured at 2 hours (C2) and 4 hours (C4) after dose: 16.2 + 2.4(C2) + 5.9(C4). Predictive performance of the equation was determined by calculating bias and precision. Agreement between AUCp and AUCm was assessed. The effects of hemoglobin and duration of tacrolimus therapy on bias and precision were also evaluated.

Results:

The median (interquartile range) of AUCm was 133.00 (98.25, 185.70) ng·h·mL−1. The AUCp well correlated with the AUCm (r
2 = 0.962, P < 0.001). The equation had a mean percentage prediction error of −2.22% (95% CI, −5.14 to 0.71), mean absolute percentage prediction error of 6.67% (95% CI, 4.92–8.42), and root mean squared error (%CV) of 14.08 (10.29%) ng·h·mL−1. A Bland–Altman plot showed good agreement between AUCp and AUCm with a mean bias of −5.43 ng·h·mL−1 (95% CI, −10.28 to −0.59). The hemoglobin level and duration of tacrolimus therapy did not influence the predictive performance of the equation.

Conclusions:

The equation had low bias and high precision in predicting the AUC0-12 of tacrolimus. The equation is a simple and reliable tool for estimating tacrolimus exposure.
Do BRCA1/2 mutation carriers have an earlier onset of natural menopause?
Authors: van Tilborg Theodora C. , Broekmans Frank J. , Pijpe Anouk , Schrijver Lieske H. , Mooij Thea M. , Oosterwijk Jan C. , Verhoef Senno , Gómez Garcia Encarna B. , van Zelst-Stams Wendy A. , Adank Muriel A. , van Asperen Christi J. , van Doorn Helena C. , van Os Theo A. , Bos Anna M. , Rookus Matti A. , Ausems Margreet G.
Published: June 2016

Objective:

It has been hypothesized that BRCA1/2 mutation carriers have an earlier age at natural menopause (ANM), although to date findings are inconclusive. This study assessed the influence of BRCA mutation status on ANM, and aimed to explore the reasons of inconsistency in the literature.

Methods:

Cross-sectional assessment from an ongoing nationwide cohort study among members of BRCA1/2 mutated families. Information was obtained by a standardized questionnaire. Kaplan-Meier curves were constructed, and Cox regression was used to assess the association between BRCA1/2 mutation status and ANM. Adjustments were made for birth cohort, family, smoking, use of hormonal contraceptives, and parity.

Results:

A total of 1,208 BRCA1/2 mutation carriers and 2,211 proven noncarriers were included. Overall, no association was found between BRCA1/2 mutation status and ANM (adjusted hazard ratio [HR] = 1.06 [95% CI, 0.87-1.30]). We examined if the null finding was due to informative censoring by uptake of risk-reducing salpingo-oophorectomy. Indeed, within the oldest birth cohort, in which the percentage of surgical menopause events was lowest and comparable between carriers and noncarriers, the HR for earlier natural menopause in carriers was 1.45 (95% CI, 1.09-1.94). The second oldest birth cohort, however, demonstrated a decreased HR (0.67 [95% CI, 0.46-0.98]), and thus no trend over birth cohorts was found.

Conclusions:

Various types of selection bias hamper the comparison of ANM between BRCA1/2 mutation carriers and noncarriers, genetically tested in the clinic.
Genetic Analysis of Japanese Children With Acute Recurrent and Chronic Pancreatitis
Authors: Saito Nobutomo , Suzuki Mitsuyoshi , Sakurai Yumiko , Nakano Satoshi , Naritaka Nakayuki , Minowa Kei , Sai Jin K. , Shimizu Toshiaki
Published: June 2016

Objectives:

Causes of acute recurrent pancreatitis (ARP) or chronic pancreatitis (CP) are sometimes difficult to determine in children. In such patients, genetic analysis may prove helpful. The present study analyzed mutations of cationic trypsinogen (PRSS1), serine protease inhibitor Kazal type 1 (SPINK1), chymotrypsin C (CTRC), and carboxypeptidase A1 (CPA1) and investigated the clinical features of children with these mutations.

Methods:

Genetic analyses of mutations in these 4 genes were conducted in 128 patients with ARP or CP. Characteristics of the patients showing mutations were investigated using medical records.

Results:

Fifty of the 128 (39.1%) subjects had at least 1 mutation (median age at onset, 7.6 years). Abdominal pain was the presenting symptom of pancreatitis in 48 of the 50 patients (96%). Fifteen of those 50 patients (30.0%) had a family history of pancreatitis. Gene mutations were present in PRSS1 in 26 patients, SPINK1 in 23, CTRC in 3, and CPA1 in 5. In the 31 patients with mutations in SPINK1, CTRC, or CPA1, 16 (51.6%) had homozygous or heterozygous mutations with other mutations. Three patients underwent surgery and another 4 patients underwent endoscopy to manage ARP or CP. Although 3 of the 7 patients complained of mild abdominal pain, none of those 7 patients experienced any obvious episode of ARP after treatment.

Conclusions:

In pediatric patients with idiopathic ARP and CP, genetic analysis is useful for identifying the cause of pancreatitis. Early endoscopic or surgical treatment prevents ARP by extending the interval between episodes of pancreatitis in this population.
Droxidopa and Reduced Falls in a Trial of Parkinson Disease Patients With Neurogenic Orthostatic Hypotension
Authors: Hauser Robert A. , Heritier Stephane , Rowse Gerald J. , Hewitt L. Arthur , Isaacson Stuart H.
Published: June 2016

Objectives

Droxidopa is a prodrug of norepinephrine indicated for the treatment of orthostatic dizziness, lightheadedness, or the “feeling that you are about to black out” in adult patients with symptomatic neurogenic orthostatic hypotension caused by primary autonomic failure including Parkinson disease (PD). The objective of this study was to compare fall rates in PD patients with symptomatic neurogenic orthostatic hypotension randomized to droxidopa or placebo.

Methods

Study NOH306 was a 10-week, phase 3, randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind trial of droxidopa in PD patients with symptomatic neurogenic orthostatic hypotension that included assessments of falls as a key secondary end point. In this report, the principal analysis consisted of a comparison of the rate of patient-reported falls from randomization to end of study in droxidopa versus placebo groups.

Results

A total of 225 patients were randomized; 222 patients were included in the safety analyses, and 197 patients provided efficacy data and were included in the falls analyses. The 92 droxidopa patients reported 308 falls, and the 105 placebo patients reported 908 falls. In the droxidopa group, the fall rate was 0.4 falls per patient-week; in the placebo group, the rate was 1.05 falls per patient-week (prespecified Wilcoxon rank sum P = 0.704; post hoc Poisson-inverse Gaussian test P = 0.014), yielding a relative risk reduction of 77% using the Poisson-inverse Gaussian model. Fall-related injuries occurred in 16.7% of droxidopa-treated patients and 26.9% of placebo-treated patients.

Conclusions

Treatment with droxidopa appears to reduce falls in PD patients with symptomatic neurogenic orthostatic hypotension, but this finding must be confirmed.
Cognitive Impairment in Multiple Sclerosis: A Review of Neuropsychological Assessments
Authors: Korakas Nikolaos , Tsolaki Magda
Published: June 2016

Of the more than two million people worldwide with multiple sclerosis, 40% to 65% experience cognitive impairment, many of them early in the course of the disease. Cognitive impairment has been found in patients with all subtypes of multiple sclerosis. Because both pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic interventions may improve patients’ brain function, cognitive assessment should be a routine part of the clinical evaluation. Traditional paper-and-pencil neuropsychological tests and batteries can help detect and monitor patients’ cognitive problems. Computerized cognitive batteries also show promise. Controversy continues over which test is most reliable at assessing cognitive impairment in both everyday clinical practice and research. Each battery has possible disadvantages, such as practice effects, poor sensitivity and specificity, and questionable applicability to multiple sclerosis. Based on our review of the literature, we describe the tests that are currently being used or that might be used in assessing cognitive deficits in patients with multiple sclerosis, and we summarize the strengths and limitations of each.
Evolutionary traps and range shifts in a rapidly changing world
Authors: Hale Robin , Morrongiello John R. , Swearer Stephen E.
Published: June 2016

Humans are altering the environment at an unprecedented rate. Although behavioural plasticity has allowed many species to respond by shifting their ranges to more favourable conditions, these rapid environmental changes may cause ‘evolutionary traps’, whereby animals mistakenly prefer resources that reduce their fitness. The role of evolutionary traps in influencing the fitness consequences of range shifts remains largely unexplored. Here, we review these interactions by considering how climate change may trigger maladaptive developmental pathways or increase the probability of animals encountering traps. We highlight how traps could selectively remove some phenotypes and compromise population persistence. We conclude by highlighting emerging areas of research that would improve our understanding of when interactions between evolutionary traps and range shifts are likely to be most detrimental to animals.
How do coral barnacles start their life in their hosts?
Authors: Liu Jennie Chien Wen , Høeg Jens Thorvald , Chan Benny K. K.
Published: June 2016

Coral-associated invertebrates are the most significant contributors to the diversity of reef ecosystems, but no studies have examined how larvae manage to settle and grow in their coral hosts. Video recordings were used to document this process in the coral barnacle
Darwiniella angularis
associated with the coral
Cyphastrea chalcidicum
. Settlement and metamorphosis in feeding juveniles lasted 8–11 days and comprised six phases. The settling cyprid starts by poking its antennules into the tissue of the prospective host (I: probing stage). The coral releases digestive filaments for defence, but tolerating such attack the cyprid penetrates further (II: battling stage). Ecdysis is completed 2 days after settlement (III: carapace detachment). The barnacle becomes embedded deep in the coral tissue while completing metamorphosis between 4 and 6 days (IV: embedding stage), but reappears as a feeding juvenile 8–11 days after settlement (V: emerging stage; VI: feeding stage). Cyprids preferably settle in areas between the coral polyps, where they have a much higher survival rate than on the polyp surfaces.
Agonistic urban birds: elevated territorial aggression of urban song sparrows is individually consistent within a breeding period
Authors: Davies Scott , Sewall Kendra B.
Published: June 2016

Urban birds often more vigorously defend their territories during simulated intrusions than do their rural counterparts, but the factors responsible remain unclear. To address this issue, we investigated whether the disparity in territorial aggression of urban and rural male song sparrows,
Melospiza melodia
, is individually consistent within a breeding period. Additionally, to better understand the physiological and ecological factors underlying this behavioural difference, we examined whether territoriality was associated with plasma testosterone, a hormone that contributes to elevated aggression in vertebrates, and/or conspecific density, a factor often positively related to aggression. The urbanization-related difference in territoriality was individually consistent within a breeding period. However, the elevated territorial aggression of urban birds was not associated with plasma testosterone and, counter to our predictions, conspecific density was lower in urban compared with rural areas. We suggest that other aspects of testosterone signalling and features of the socio-ecological environment, such as the availability of breeding sites, may underlie increased territorial aggression in urban birds.
The importance of litter quality for the role of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi in plant litter decomposition (short communication)
Authors: Leifheit E.F. , Rillig M.C.
Published: June 2016

Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) have been shown to positively and negatively affect plant litter decomposition. The use of litter types with different quality and different observation periods might be responsible for these contradictory results. Therefore, we performed a 10-week laboratory experiment with 7 litter types differing in their C:N ratio, and tested for effects of litter quality and the presence of AMF on litter decomposition. We found that decomposition of plant litter with higher C:N ratios was only beginning and was stimulated by AMF, whereas decomposition of plant litter with lower C:N ratios had already progressed and was decreased by AMF. With this study we show that not only litter quality is important for effects of AMF on litter decomposition, but also the stage of litter decomposition.
A method of hard X-ray phase-shifting digital holography
Authors: Park So Yeong , Hong Chung Ki , Lim Jun
Published: June 2016

A new method of phase-shifting digital holography is demonstrated in the hard X-ray region. An in-line-type phase-shifting holography setup was installed in a 6.80 keV hard X-ray synchrotron beamline. By placing a phase plate consisting of a hole and a band at the focusing point of a Fresnel lens, the relative phase of the reference and objective beams could be successfully shifted for use with a three-step phase-shift algorithm. The system was verified by measuring the shape of a gold test pattern and a silica sphere.
A cyanide-bridged heterometallic coordination polymer constructed from square-planar [Ni(CN)4]2−: synthesis, crystal structure, thermal decomposition, electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectrum and magnetic properties
Authors: Qin Ying-Lian , Yang Bin-Wu , Wang Gao-Feng , Sun Hong
Published: June 2016

Square-planar complexes are commonly formed by transition metal ions having ad8electron configuration. Planar cyanometallate anions have been used extensively as design elements in supramolecular coordination systems. In particular, square-planar tetracyanometallate(II) ions,i.e.[M(CN)4]2−(MII= Ni, Pd or Pt), are used as good building blocks for bimetallic Hofmann-type assemblies and their analogues. Square-planar tetracyanonickellate(II) complexes have been extensively developed withN-donor groups as additional co-ligands, but studies of these systems usingO-donor ligands are scarce. A new cyanide-bridged CuII–NiIIheterometallic compound, poly[[diaquatetra-μ2-cyanido-κ8C:N-nickel(II)copper(II)] monohydrate], {[CuIINiII(CN)4(H2O)2]·H2O}n, has been synthesized and characterized by X-ray single-crystal diffraction analyses, vibrational spectroscopy (FT–IR), thermal analysis, electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) and magnetic moment measurements. The structural analysis revealed that it has a two-dimensional grid-like structure built up of cationic [Cu(H2O)2]2+and anionic [Ni(CN)4]2−units connected through bridging cyanide ligands. The overall three-dimensional supramolecular network is expanded by a combination of interlayer O—H...N and intralayer O—H...O hydrogen-bond interactions. The first decomposition reactions take place at 335 K under a static air atmosphere, which illustrates the existence of guest water molecules in the interlayer spaces. The electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectrum confirms that the CuIIcation has an axial coordination symmetry and that the unpaired electrons occupy thed_{{{{x}^2}-y^2} orbital. In addition, magnetic investigations showed that antiferromagnetic interactions exist in the CuIIatoms through the diamagnetic [Ni(CN)4]2−ion.
Crystal structure of bis[4-(dimethylamino)pyridinium] aquabis(oxalato)oxidovanadate(IV) dihydrate
Authors: Sehimi Hiba , Chérif Ichraf , Zid Mohamed Faouzi
Published: June 2016

The title organic–inorganic hybrid salt, (C7H11N2)2[V(C2O4)2O(H2O)]·2H2O, shows a distorted octahedral coordination environment for the vanadium(IV) atom in the anion (point group symmetry 2), with four O atoms from two symmetry-related chelating oxalate dianions and two O atoms intransconfiguration from a coordinating water molecule and a terminal vanadyl O atom. In the crystal, (001) layers of cations and anions alternate along [001]. The anionic layers are built up by intermolecular O—H...O hydrogen bonds involving the coordinating and solvent water molecules. The cationic layers are linked to the anionic layersviaN—H...O hydrogen bonds between the pyridinium group and the non-coordinating O atoms of the oxalate group. The 4-(dimethylamino)pyridinium cations are also engaged in π–π stacking with their antiparallel neighbours [centroid-to-centroid distance = 3.686 (2) Å]. Considering all supramolecular features, a three-dimensional network structure is accomplished.
Crystal structure of 2-ethyl-4-methyl-1-(2-oxido-3,4-dioxocyclobut-1-en-1-yl)-1H-imidazol-3-ium
Authors: Korkmaz Ufuk , Bulut Iclal , Bulut Ahmet
Published: June 2016

In the title inner salt molecule, C10H10N2O3, the four-membered cyclobutene ring is twisted by 7.1 (2)° with respect to the five-membered imidazole ring. The crystal packing exhibits anR22(9) hydrogen-bonding ring motif through N—H...O and C—H...O interactions. The potential non-linear optical properties were studied by a computationalab initiocalculations performed at the DFT/B3LYP/6–31++G(d,p) level of theory.
Crystal structure of chlorido[trans-1-(diphenylphosphanethioyl-κS)-2-(diphenylphosphanoyl)ethene]gold(I) dichloromethane hemisolvate
Authors: Taouss Christina , Jones Peter G.
Published: June 2016

The title compound, [AuCl(C26H22OP2S)]·0.5CH2Cl2, crystallizes with atrans-O—P...P—S geometry of the groups either side of the C=C double bond, which prevents any intramolecular contact between the Au and O atoms. The AuIatom exhibits a nearly linear coordination [Cl—Au—S = 177.55 (4)°]. The molecules associate to form broad ribbons parallel to thecaxisviatwo C—H...O, one C—H...Cl(Au) and one Au...Cl interaction.
1-(12-Bromododecyl)-5-chloroindoline-2,3-dione
Authors: Tribak Zineb , Kandri Rodi Youssef , Haoudi Amal , Essassi El Mokhtar , Capet Fréderic , Zouihri Hafid
Published: June 2016

In the structure of the title compound, C20H27BrClNO2, the 5-chloroindoline-2,3-dione ring system is approximately planar, the largest deviation from the mean plane being 0.0237 (10) Å. The mean plane through the fused-ring system makes a dihedral angle of 61.00 (18)° with the mean plane passing through the 1-dodecyl chain. All C atoms of the dodecyl group adopt the planar zigzag arrangement normally observed inn-alkane compounds. In the crystal, molecules are linked by C—H...O hydrogen bonds, forming chains parallel to thebaxis.
3-Methylpyridinium 4-nitrobenzoate–4-nitrobenzoic acid (1/1)
Authors: Sivakumar P. , Niranjana Devi R. , Israel S. , Chakkaravarthi G.
Published: June 2016

In the title compound, C6H8N+·C7H4NO4−·C7H5NO4, the cation is protonated at its pyridine N atom and makes a dihedral angle of 74.14 (12)° with the benzene ring of the anion. The benzene ring of the neutral molecule and the pyridine ring are inclined at an angle of 79.20 (12)°. The two benzene rings form a dihedral angle of 6.00 (12)° with each other. In the crystal, N—H...O, O—H...O and C—H...O hydrogen bonds link the cations, anions and neutral molecules to form layers parallel to theacplane, which enloseR44(18) ring motifs. The layers are linked by further C—H...O hydrogen bonds and C—H...π interactions, forming a three-dimensional supramolecular architecture.
Bridging the school placement gap with peer micro-teaching lesson study
Authors: Griffiths Jo
Published: June 2016

Purpose

– An adapted version of lesson study (peer micro-teaching lesson study (PMLS)) was used in a one-year initial teacher education (ITE) programme for prospective secondary school teachers of geography, history, citizenship and social science in England. The purpose of this paper is to support student-teachers through an opportunity to share knowledge, skills and practice from their first teaching placements.

Design/methodology/approach

– In cross-curricular groups (of three or four), the student-teachers co-designed lessons that focused on developing thinking skills when teaching advanced-level content. Two “research lessons” were designed following the use of an initial questionnaire. Feedback from student-teachers was sought through a post-PMLS questionnaire. Participants’ discussions were recorded between the two “research lessons” to capture references to subject knowledge (SK), placement experiences and exploratory talk.

Findings

– Principal findings to emerge from the project were: cross-curricular PMLS helped to support student-teachers’ development between their two school environments. The collaborative process allowed them to build on their first school experiences by sharing and reflecting on their placements, learning from each other’s pedagogical practice and by improving SK both within and outside of their own specialism.

Originality/value

– The work is the first known use of PMLS in ITE in the UK, demonstrating that it can be used as a bridge between the first and second school placements. It elaborates a cross-curricular collaborative vision for the use of modified forms of LS in the preparation of new teachers in programmes that are now largely school-led.
Developing the skills of future teachers to fine-tune pupils’ learning through lesson studies
Authors: Ducrey Monnier Mylene
Published: June 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to present an adaptation of the lesson study (LS) approach to the training of future generalist teachers. It aims to improve their interactions with pupils when fine-tuning their learning process. The reiteration of study cycles enables a critical analysis of trainee teacher’s interventions in the light of pupils’ responses and work. It thus allows students to improve their interventions by employing new theoretical contributions, for instance, about the management of both uncertainty and didactic heterogeneity which are two fundamental concepts in the relationship between teaching and learning.

Design/methodology/approach

– The training portfolios handed in by students at the end of the semester include the transcripts of the records of all teacher-pupil interactions for five LS cycles with the corresponding work of pupils. These portfolios conserve traces of the learning process from the first to the last interventions of the trainee teachers with their pupils. The portfolios analyzed for this paper deal with the teaching of mental arithmetic at elementary school.

Findings

– The analysis aims to pinpoint transformations enacted by trainee teachers in how they intervene with pupils and how their actions incorporate new theoretical contributions.

Practical implications

– This analysis shows that LS, as a training approach, can facilitate the articulation of theory and practice and enable teachers to experience the effects of improved teaching on pupils’ learning. In terms of training, it makes it possible to understand how theoretical choices take on meaning in the improved practices of trainee teachers.

Originality/value

– The interest of this contribution lies in the presentation of successive transcripts obtained during an LS approach and in the description of levers that such an approach provides for teaching training.
Demand and supply of FM outsourcing services
Authors: Lok Ka Leung , Baldry David
Published: June 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to address the structure of the category on client-provider outsourcing relationship in relation to facilities management (FM). The paper aims to rank different outsourcing relationship types according to importance with respect to the four critical FM drivers including co-ordination, quality, competence and adequacy.

Design/methodology/approach

The survey design and measures operationalising the constructs allow the use of the analytic hierarchy process (AHP), a technique that tests FM outsourcing in a contingent approach such as a decision processing model. In the questionnaire surveys, a series of structured questions is designed. FM experts used the AHP methodology to analyse the FM outsourcing relationship types.

Findings

The model of the FM outsourcing strategies presented in the paper shows four main FM drivers at FM practice through the priority ratios of outsourcing relationship dimensions for different FM outsourcing contracts as derived by the AHP discussed by clients’ and service providers’ points of views. The result of a survey from the Hong Kong’s higher education industry reveals that the FM service providers can understand the needs of the clients in FM outsourcing contracts, including building maintenance, cleaning and catering. Hence, the service providers’ expected outsourcing performance will be good in these contracts. However, FM service providers do not understand the needs of FM clients in the FM outsourcing security contracts. Thus, the service providers’ expected outsourcing performance in such contracts will be poor. To improve the outsourcing relationships between the FM stakeholders, service providers must understand their clients’ needs to develop appropriate outsourcing strategies.

Originality/value

Understanding on the demand and supply of FM outsourcing services is now crucial for effective FM on outsourcing relationships between clients and service providers in higher education sector. The examination of current and prediction of future outsourcing relationships between the stakeholders to match the FM services significantly influence FM outsourcing success. This paper provides an intriguing insight into how the demand and supply of FM services can be successfully and strategically implemented into the FM outsourcing relationship in Hong Kong’s universities and tertiary institutions.
Technological applications to the marketing classroom
Authors: Leventhal Richard C. , Swanson Andree
Published: June 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to identify resources that are available in the online marketing classroom and to further contemplate the applications for marketing managers. The authors explore the rationale for using technology to deliver course material and the positive results that accrue in terms of these efforts.

Design/methodology/approach

An exploratory qualitative research design was used for this study so as to gain broad perspective of technology’s application to the classroom.

Findings

Four types of learners exist: visual learners, auditory learners, 30 read and write learners and kinesthetic learners (Fleming and Mills, 1922a, 1922b). All four types must be addressed in the online learning environment.

Practical implications

Many educators in higher education will use various forms of rudimentary technology in the classroom, but have yet to embrace or understand the full potential of such applications. Online learning uses both synchronous and asynchronous techniques to engage the student so as to improve the individual’s knowledge, skills and abilities.

Originality/value

Technology applications to the marketing classroom have become a necessity for delivering course content to a wide audience of individual learners, both in higher education and in industry as well.
Personal development plans: insights from a case based approach
Authors: Greenan Peter
Published: June 2016

Purpose

In light of contemporary shifts away from annual appraisals, this study aims to explore the implications of using a personal development plan (PDP) as a means of focussing on continuous feedback and development to improve individual performance and ultimately organisational performance.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected through an employee survey in one private sector organisation in the UK finance sector using a case study approach. Secondary data in the form of completed PDPs were used to compare and contrast responses to the survey.

Findings

Results indicate that the diagnostic stage is generally effective, but support for the PDP and development activity post diagnosis is less visible. Implications of this are that time spent in the diagnostic stage is unproductive and could impact on motivation and self-efficacy of employees. Furthermore, for the organisation to adopt a continuous focus on development via PDPs would necessitate a systematic training programme to effect a change in culture.

Research limitations/implications

This study was limited to one organisation in one sector which reduces the generalisability of results. Research methods were limited to anonymous survey, and a richer picture would be painted following qualitative interviews. There was also a subconscious bias towards believing that a PDP containing documented goals would lead to improved individual and organisation performance; However, the discussion has identified the concept of subconscious priming which implies that verbal goals may be equally valid, and further comparative research between verbal and written goals is recommended.

Practical implications

The results indicate the potential value that using PDPs could bring to an organisation as an alternative to annual appraisal, subject to a supportive organisational culture.

Originality/value

PricewaterhouseCoopers, in a recent article for CIPD (2015), reported that two-thirds of large companies are planning to rethink their annual appraisal system. One of the key drivers for this was the desire for more regular feedback. Given the recent shift in thinking, little research has been conducted into what would replace the annual appraisal. This paper therefore focusses on the extent to which PDPs can contribute to supporting this more regular contact and feedback.
Entrepreneurial co-creation: a research vision to be materialised
Authors: Shams S. M. Riad , Kaufmann Hans Ruediger
Published: June 2016

Purpose

– There are increasing influences of stakeholder relationships in the contemporary entrepreneurial knowledge stream to co-create value, in order to jointly confront the market competition. However, current research implies a dichotomy to exist between the awareness of the necessity of stakeholder-centred strategic thinking and the actual implementation of strategies in entrepreneurial practice. The purpose of this paper is to close this gap, in order to understand how entrepreneurs could, strategically and operationally, enhance their stakeholders’ relationships to reinforce entrepreneurial co-creation. Since, co-creation propels innovation; entrepreneurs’ and their stakeholders’ well-being calls for urgent materialisation of the entrepreneurial co-creation concept.

Design/methodology/approach

– A constructivist approach is applied to support findings to evolve a synthesis from literature to kick-off an academic debate on future research avenues on how to develop a co-creating entrepreneurial mindset.

Findings

– The findings conceptualise the significance of relevant traditional and contemporary issues of stakeholder relationships and entrepreneurship to structure the entrepreneurial co-creation concept. Ten issues are recognised from the conjoint literature influencing the conception.

Practical implications

– These insights will be useful for entrepreneurs to better align their entrepreneurial propositions with their stakeholder relationships to underpin value co-creation. Academics will be able to use these insights as a basis for future research towards entrepreneurial co-creation and are invited to join the debate.

Originality/value

– The findings represent an innovative strategic direction towards a better understanding of the significance of stakeholder relationships, pertaining to entrepreneurial development in the contemporary marketplaces, and holistically conceptualise the entrepreneurial co-creation concept.
Causing trouble: the language of learning disability and challenging behaviour
Authors: Haydon-Laurelut Mark , Nunkoosing Karl
Published: June 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to review two studies concerning referrals for challenging behaviour to community learning disability teams (CLDTs). The social constructionist approach to research taken by the studies is introduced.

Design/methodology/approach

– The studies used critical discourse analysis and thematic analysis to analyse referral texts and interviews with referrers.

Findings

– The studies found referral processes locating service problems within the bodies of persons with intellectual disabilities whilst constructing the actions of services as appropriate. This was in part achieved by employing the discourses of the total institutions. The referral process often served the purposes of the referring service.

Research limitations/implications

– The research took place in a small geographical location across two learning disability teams.

Originality/value

– The process of referring to CLDTs and the language used in these referrals is an under researched area. This paper shows how the language and documents of services are rich sources of data. Services exist in a network and understanding how this network functions is important to understanding the function of referrals.
Soil processes drive the biological silicon feedback loop
Authors: Cornelis Jean‐Thomas , Delvaux Bruno
Published: June 2016

Soil is the primary source of plant silicon (Si) and therefore a key reservoir of the Si biological cycling. Soil processes control the stock of Si‐bearing minerals and the release of dissolved Si (DSi), hence the Si fluxes at the Earth's surface. Here, we review the interdependent relationship between soil processes and the return of plant Si in soils, and their controls on the biological Si feedback loop.

Dissolution and precipitation of soil silicate minerals govern the bioavailability of Si. Plants affect Si biocycling through mineral weathering, root uptake, phytolith formation, return and dissolution in soil. Thus, soil processes and Si biocycling readily interact in soil–plant systems.

Rock mineral weathering and soil formation are driven by the five soil‐forming factors: parent rock, climate, topography, age and biota. These factors govern Si fluxes in soil–plant systems since they impact both the mineral weathering rate and fate of DSi. The variability of soil‐forming factors at a global scale explains both the soil diversity and high variability of the rates of Si cycling in terrestrial ecosystems.

Plants play a crucial role in soil evolution by promoting weathering and forming phytoliths (plant silica bodies). They thus act as Si sinks and sources. With increasing depletion of lithogenic (LSi) and pedogenic (PSi) silicates, the biological Si feedback loop progressively takes over the Si plant uptake from weatherable LSi and PSi minerals. With rising weathering, the soil becomes increasingly concentrated in phytoliths, phytogenic amorphous silicates (PhSi), which are constantly formed in plant and dissolved in soil. Paradoxically, the Si biocycling is thus more intense in soils depleted in primary LSi source. By converting soil LSi and PSi into PhSi, plants increase the mobility of Si in soil and alleviate desilication in the topsoil. Non‐essential plant Si is therefore an essential link between mineral and living worlds.

The dynamics of Si in terrestrial ecosystems is thus largely governed by pedogenesis and its relationship with plant community and diversity. Consequently, the appraisal of soil constituents and processes is central to further understand their interaction with the biological Si feedback loop.
Isolation of Bdellovibrio bacteriovorus from a tropical wastewater treatment plant and predation of mixed species biofilms assembled by the native community members
Authors: Feng Shugeng , Tan Chuan Hao , Cohen Yehuda , Rice Scott A.
Published: June 2016

It is reported here that a predatory bacterium belonging to the Genus Bdellovibrio, was isolated from activated sludge at the Ulu Pandan Water Reclamation Plant, Singapore. 16S rDNA gene sequencing analysis revealed that this isolate was 99% identical to ‘Bdellovibrio bacteriovorus strain Tiberius’ and hence is designated as ‘Bdellovibrio bacteriovorus UP’. Using a novel approach based on fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), a prey cell density‐dependent growth pattern of B. bacteriovorus UP was established. B. bacteriovorus UP preyed upon a broad range of bacterial species (60 species) isolated from the activated sludge. Except for Ochrobactrum anthropi, all Gram‐negative species were sensitive to predation by B. bacteriovorus UP irrespective of the mode of growth (planktonic or biofilm). Similarly, the predation‐sensitive species were not protected by the predation‐resistant species, O. anthropi, as determined in multiple dual‐species planktonic and biofilm consortia. Given the broad prey spectrum, B. bacteriovorus UP may impact functional community members, which are largely members of the Proteobacteria. Thus, these results provide an important insight to the role of predatory bacteria in shaping of community structure and function in both natural and engineered ecosystems.
Workforce Crisis in Residential Aged Care: Insights from Rural, Older Workers
Authors: Hodgkin Suzanne , Warburton Jeni , Savy Pauline , Moore Melissa
Published: June 2016

In Australia, workforce shortages in residential aged care present a significant challenge for the aged care industry. The growing demand for workers in aged care, combined with the shrinking supply of younger workers entering the field, highlights a future workforce crisis. The current shortfalls are set to worsen with the retirement of a generation of women who have provided the backbone of the workforce. Although targeted retention of this group may alleviate this issue, few studies have explored the retirement decisions of this cohort. This paper reports on a qualitative study of this cohort of Victorian public sector residential aged care staff. Although current government rhetoric promotes intrinsic rewards (altruism, moral fulfilment) over extrinsic rewards (excessive workload, pay and conditions), a combination of these factors was associated with job satisfaction. It would seem timely to revisit some of these concerns to ensure an adequate and sufficiently skilled workforce.
Measuring microbial fitness in a field reciprocal transplant experiment
Authors: Boynton Primrose J. , Stelkens Rike , Kowallik Vienna , Greig Duncan
Published: June 2016

Microbial fitness is easy to measure in the laboratory, but difficult to measure in the field. Laboratory fitness assays make use of controlled conditions and genetically modified organisms, neither of which are available in the field. Among other applications, fitness assays can help researchers detect adaptation to different habitats or locations. We designed a competitive fitness assay to detect adaptation of Saccharomyces paradoxus isolates to the habitat they were isolated from (oak or larch leaf litter). The assay accurately measures relative fitness by tracking genotype frequency changes in the field using digital droplet PCR (DDPCR). We expected locally adapted S. paradoxus strains to increase in frequency over time when growing on the leaf litter type from which they were isolated. The DDPCR assay successfully detected fitness differences among S. paradoxus strains, but did not find a tendency for strains to be adapted to the habitat they were isolated from. Instead, we found that the natural alleles of the hexose transport gene we used to distinguish S. paradoxus strains had significant effects on fitness. The origin of a strain also affected its fitness: strains isolated from oak litter were generally fitter than strains from larch litter. Our results suggest that dispersal limitation and genetic drift shape S. paradoxus populations in the forest more than local selection does, although further research is needed to confirm this. Tracking genotype frequency changes using DDPCR is a practical and accurate microbial fitness assay for natural environments.
Adenosine triphosphate postconditioning is associated with better preserved global and regional cardiac function during myocardial ischemia and reperfusion: a speckle tracking imaging‐based echocardiologic study
Authors: Ren Min , Liu Yujie , Zhao Huiya , Dong Shixia , Jiang Zhonghui , Li Keting , Tian Jiawei
Published: June 2016

Introduction

Effects of ischemic postconditioning (IPostC) and adenosine triphosphate (ATP)‐mediated pharmacologic postconditioning (ATP‐PPostC) on cardiac function were evaluated by speckle tracking imaging (STI)‐based echocardiography.

Aims

A myocardial I/R model was induced in rabbits by reversible ligation of the left ventricular branch of coronary artery. Rabbits were randomized into three groups: ischemia and reperfusion (IR) (no further intervention), IPostC, and ATP‐PPostC groups. Cardiac function was evaluated by conventional and STI‐based echocardiography. Myocardial necrosis, apoptosis, and myocardial mRNAs of apoptosis‐related proteins (Bcl‐2 and Bax) were evaluated.

Results

Speckle tracking imaging (STI)‐based echocardiography revealed that IPostC and ATP‐PPostC were associated with better preserved global and regional cardiac function, as indicated by significantly increased GLSrsys, GLSrd, GLSsys, SrLsys, SrLd, and SLsys in both groups (all P<.5). Subsequent pathologic studies indicate that the percentage of necrotic myocardium and permillage of apoptotic cells were significantly lower in the IPostC and ATP‐PPostC groups than in the IR group (all P<.05). Moreover, both IPostC and ATP‐PPostC were associated with increased Bcl‐2 mRNA levels and reduced Bax mRNA levels.

Conclusions

IPostC and ATP‐PPostC may exert cardioprotective functions by better preservation of cardiac function during the I/R process and at least partly via attenuation of myocardial apoptosis.
Metabolic diversity and adaptive mechanisms of iron‐ and/or sulfur‐oxidizing autotrophic acidophiles in extremely acidic environments
Authors: Zhang Xian , Liu Xueduan , Liang Yili , Fan Fenliang , Zhang Xiaoxia , Yin Huaqun
Published: June 2016

Many studies have investigated the mechanisms underlying the survival and growth of certain organisms in extremely acidic environments known to be harmful to most prokaryotes and eukaryotes. Acidithiobacillus and Leptospirillum spp. are dominant bioleaching bacteria widely used in bioleaching systems, which are characterized by extremely acidic environments. To survive and grow in such settings, these acidophiles utilize shared molecular mechanisms that allow life in extreme conditions. In this review, we have summarized the results of published genomic analyses, which underscore the ability of iron‐ and/or sulfur‐oxidizing autotrophic acidophiles belonging to the genera Acidithiobacillus and Leptospirillum to adapt to acidic environmental conditions. Several lines of evidence point at the metabolic diversity and multiplicity of pathways involved in the survival of these organisms. The ability to thrive in adverse environments requires versatile activation of structural and functional adaptive responses, including bacterial adhesion, motility, and resistance to heavy metals. We have highlighted recent developments centered on the key survival mechanisms employed by dominant extremophiles, and have laid the foundation for future studies focused on the ability of acidophiles to thrive in extremely acidic environments.
Prevalence of combined contraceptive vaginal rings in Norway
Authors: Skipenes Vanja Poppe , Skjeldestad Finn Egil
Published: June 2016

Introduction

Little is known about vaginal ring (VR) prescribers and user patterns in Norway and internationally. With data from the Norwegian Prescription Database, we explore user and prescriber characteristics of women initiating VR use.

Material and methods

In a cross‐sectional study design, we analyzed 47 127 first‐time VR users from 1 January 2006 to 31 December 2012. Follow up ended on 30 June 2013. We applied strict definitions for switching from any other hormonal contraceptive before and at the end of VR use. All analyses were performed using SPSS, with chi‐squared test, t‐test, and survival analysis.

Results

At study end, the prevalent use of VR reached 10 per 1000 women of fertile age, which amounted to 3% of all hormonal contraceptive use. The number of first‐time VR users increased from 2006 to 2008 only among women under the age of 20. Nearly three out of four new users discontinued after 3 months. Physicians without specialist status and general practitioners accounted for over 70% of the prescriptions, whereas gynecologists accounted for 17% of the prescriptions. Gynecologists were significant prescribers of VR to women aged 35 or more.

Conclusions

Gynecologists are important providers of VR to first‐time users above 30 years of age. When prescribing VR to first‐time users, it is important to discuss the need for contraception in a longer time perspective. Authorizing public health nurses/midwives as VR prescribers to teenagers, from 1 March 2006, may explain the relative increase in VR usage at a younger age.
Adipocytokine, progranulin, augments acetylcholine‐induced nitric oxide‐mediated relaxation through the increases of cGMP production in rat isolated mesenteric artery
Authors: Kazama K. , Hoshino K. , Kodama T. , Okada M. , Yamawaki H.
Published: June 2016

Aim

Progranulin (PGRN) is a novel adipocytokine with anti‐inflammatory effects in vascular cells. The aim of this study was to clarify the effects of PGRN on reactivity of isolated blood vessel.

Methods

Isometric contraction of rat isolated superior mesenteric artery was measured.

Results

Pre‐treatment with PGRN (10–100 ng mL−1, 30 min) had no effect on noradrenaline‐ or 5‐hydroxytriptamine‐induced contraction. On the other hand, pre‐treatment with PGRN (100 ng mL−1) augmented acetylcholine (ACh; 30 nm)‐induced endothelium‐dependent relaxation. Pre‐treatment with PGRN (100 ng mL−1) augmented ACh (10 μm)‐induced nitric oxide (NO)‐mediated relaxation in the presence of indomethacin (10 μm), a cyclooxygenase inhibitor, and tetraethyl ammonium (10 mm), a non‐selective potassium channel blocker. In contrast, pre‐treatment with PGRN (100 ng mL−1) had no effect on ACh‐induced endothelium‐derived hyperpolarizing factor‐mediated relaxation. Pre‐treatment with PGRN (100 ng mL−1) had no effect on ACh (10 μm, 1 min)‐induced endothelial NO synthase phosphorylation (at Ser1177) as determined by Western blotting. Pre‐treatment with PGRN (100 ng mL−1) augmented an NO donor, sodium nitroprusside (SNP; 30 nm–1 μm)‐ but not a membrane‐permeable cGMP analogue, 8‐bromo‐cGMP‐induced relaxation. In the presence of 3‐isobutyl‐1‐methylxanthine (100 μm), a phosphodiesterase inhibitor, pre‐treatment with PGRN (100 ng mL−1) increased SNP (30 nm, 5 min)‐induced cGMP production as determined by enzyme immunoassay.

Conclusion

We for the first time demonstrate that PGRN augments ACh‐induced NO‐mediated relaxation through the increases of cGMP production in smooth muscle. These results indicate PGRN as a possible pharmacotherapeutic target against cardiovascular diseases including obesity‐related hypertension.