bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhancing multiple dimensions of performance in small professional firms through leader–follower trust
Authors: Jing Fenwick Feng , Avery Gayle C , Bergsteiner Harald
Published: July 2013

This study reports a range of positive effects of trusting relationships between leaders and followers on multiple measures of performance in small professional service firms. Six performance measures were used: financial outcomes, staff and customer satisfaction, productivity, and staff and manager tenure. Predictions that firms with high levels of manager–follower trust would outperform their low‐trust peers were supported on all measures. Importantly, the findings indicated that retaining managers and staff in small firms is associated with high levels of manager–follower trust.
Autoimmune hepatitis in southern Israel: A 15‐year multicenter study
Authors: Delgado Jorge‐Shmuel , Vodonos Alina , Malnick Stephen , Kriger Ofra , Wilkof‐Segev Renana , Delgado Bertha , Novack Victor , Rosenthal Alexander , Menachem Yoram , Melzer Ehud , Fich Alexander
Published: July 2013

Objective

In this study we aimed to assess the incidence, prevalence and clinical outcomes of patients with autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) in southern Israel.

Methods

Case‐finding methods and population‐based administrative data were used to evaluate the epidemiology and prognostic factors of AIH from 1995 to 2010.

Results

During the study period, the average annual prevalence and incidence of AIH in southern Israel were 11.0/100 000 and 0.67/100 000, respectively. We identified 100 AIH cases with a mean age of 47.9 years, including 95 women and five men. Type 1 AIH was found in 77 cases, and liver fibrosis and cirrhosis were found in 73.4% and 22.3% of all patients who underwent liver biopsy. In all, 98 patients were treated with a combination of steroids and azathioprine or steroids alone (prednisone and azathioprine in 71, budesonide and azathioprine in 11, prednisone or budesonide alone in six and ten, respectively). Complete remission was recorded in 56 patients, whereas partial response or failure of treatment was noted in 42 patients. In multivariate analysis the independent predictors of remission were the degree of liver fibrosis (mild vs bridging fibrosis (F3) and cirrhosis [F4]) (P = 0.003) and level of albumin (P = 0.031). The estimated 1‐year and 10‐year survival for AIH were 96.5% and 89.7%, respectively.

Conclusions

The prevalence of AIH in Israel is quite similar to that of other European Caucasian populations, with a relatively long‐term good prognosis, despite a low rate of response to immunosuppressive therapy.
Cd2+ resistance mechanisms in Methanosarcina acetivorans involve the increase in the coenzyme M content and induction of biofilm synthesis
Authors: Lira‐Silva Elizabeth , Santiago‐Martínez M. Geovanni , García‐Contreras Rodolfo , Zepeda‐Rodríguez Armando , Marín‐Hernández Alvaro , Moreno‐Sánchez Rafael , Jasso‐Chávez Ricardo
Published: July 2013

To assess what defence mechanisms are triggered by Cd2+ stress in Methanosarcina acetivorans, cells were cultured at different cadmium concentrations. In the presence of 100 μM CdCl2, the intracellular contents of cysteine, sulfide and coenzyme M increased, respectively, 8, 27 and 7 times versus control. Cells incubated for 24 h in medium with less cysteine and sulfide removed up to 80% of Cd2+ added, whereas their cysteine and coenzyme M contents increased 160 and 84 times respectively. Cadmium accumulation (5.2 μmol/10–15 mg protein) resulted in an increase in methane synthesis of 4.5 times in cells grown on acetate. Total phosphate also increased under high (0.5 mM) Cd2+ stress. On the other hand, cells preadapted to 54 μM CdCl2 and further exposed to > 0.63 mM CdCl2 developed the formation of a biofilm with an extracellular matrix constituted by carbohydrates, DNA and proteins. Biofilm cells were able to synthesize methane. The data suggested that increased intracellular contents of thiol molecules and total phosphate, and biofilm formation, are all involved in the cadmium resistance mechanisms in this marine archaeon.
Evaluation of grafted patients with donor corneas that today are more than 100 years old
Authors: Visby Elizabeth , Hjortdal Jesper , Nielsen Kim
Published: July 2013

Purpose:  Life expectancy is increasing. When corneal donors become older and corneal‐grafted patients live longer with their graft, the need for good‐quality donor tissue becomes more crucial. The aim of the present investigation is to study grafted recipients with a donor cornea with a total tissue age of more than 100 years.

Methods:  One thousand consecutive donor records from the Danish Cornea Bank were initially reviewed. After applying different inclusion criteria, 35 recipients with corneal donor tissue of more than 100 years of age were invited for a follow‐up visit. Visual acuity, corneal transparency and thickness, and intraocular pressure were measured. Corneal topography and endothelial photos were taken.

Results:  Seventeen of the invited patients attended the examination. The average age of the grafts at examination was 107 years old; the oldest being 118 years. Most grafts were still clear 23–35 years after transplantation, and almost one‐fourth had best spectacle‐corrected visual acuity (BSCVA) ≥ 0.50. Cell morphology showed irregularity in size and shape for both grafted and healthy corneas, but the alterations were more extensive in the grafted corneas. The average endothelial cell density (ECD) was 1360 mm2 in the grafted corneas. Sixty per cent had ECD > 1000 cells/mm2. No signs of decompensation were observed for those with <1000 cells. The average central corneal thickness of the grafts was 0.582 mm (SD = 0.067) compared with 0.494 mm (SD = 0.043) in the fellow cornea.

Conclusion:  This study shows a trend of moderate long‐term survival and quality for very old grafts despite low ECD. Most recipients had a clear transplant, and one‐fifth had BSCVA of 0.80.
Human β‐defensin 2 may inhibit internalisation of bacillus Calmette‐Guérin (BCG) in bladder cancer cells
Authors: Kim Jung Hoon , Kim Soon‐Ja , Lee Kyung Mee , Chang In Ho
Published: July 2013

Objective

To investigate whether secretion of human β‐defensin 2 (HBD‐2) is induced by bacillus Calmette‐Guérin (BCG) and to determine whether HBD‐2 affects BCG internalisation in bladder cancer cells.

Materials and Methods

Reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction analysis was used to determine whether HBD‐2 mRNA increases after incubation with BCG. HBD‐2 proteins in 5637 and T24 human bladder cancer cell lines were assayed by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay.

The internalisation rate was evaluated by double immunofluorescence assay and confocal microscopy to test the optimal dose of HBD‐2 for BCG internalisation.

We also investigated the difference in internalisation rates and cell viability between recombinant HBD‐2 protein, anti‐HBD‐2 antibody, and HBD‐2 plus anti‐HBD‐2 antibody pretreatments.

Results

BCG induced HBD‐2 mRNA expression and HBD‐2 production dose and time‐dependently in bladder cancer cells and affected BCG internalisation.

Pretreatment with recombinant HBD‐2 protein lowered internalisation of BCG dose‐dependently. Moreover, anti‐HBD‐2 antibody prevented the effect of HBD‐2 on BCG internalisation in bladder cancer cells.

The internalisation rate of BCG pretreated with anti‐HBD‐2 antibody was higher than that in the control in 5637 (P < 0.01) and T24 cells (P < 0.05). The BCG internalisation rate in cells pretreated with anti‐HBD‐2 antibody plus recombinant HBD‐2 protein was higher than that in the control in 5637 (P < 0.01) and T24 cells (P < 0.05).

Mycobacterium bovis BCG decreased bladder cancer cell viability, and anti‐HBD‐2 antibody prevented the inhibitory role of HBD‐2 on the anti‐proliferative effects of M. bovis BCG in bladder cancer cells

Conclusion

Bladder cancer cells produce HBD‐2 when they are infected by BCG to defend themselves against BCG internalisation, which plays an important role during the initiation and propagation of the immunotherapeutic response in bladder cancer cells.
Measuring the surgical ‘learning curve’: methods, variables and competency
Authors: Khan Nuzhath , Abboudi Hamid , Khan Mohammed Shamim , Dasgupta Prokar , Ahmed Kamran
Published: July 2013

Objectives

To describe how learning curves are measured and what procedural variables are used to establish a ‘learning curve’ (LC).

To assess whether LCs are a valuable measure of competency.

Patients and Methods

A review of the surgical literature pertaining to LCs was conducted using the Medline and OVID databases.

Results

Variables should be fully defined and when possible, patient‐specific variables should be used. Trainee's prior experience and level of supervision should be quantified; the case mix and complexity should ideally be constant.

Logistic regression may be used to control for confounding variables.

Ideally, a learning plateau should reach a predefined/expert‐derived competency level, which should be fully defined.

When the group splitting method is used, smaller cohorts should be used in order to narrow the range of the LC.

Simulation technology and competence‐based objective assessments may be used in training and assessment in LC studies.

Conclusions

Measuring the surgical LC has potential benefits for patient safety and surgical education. However, standardisation in the methods and variables used to measure LCs is required.

Confounding variables, such as participant's prior experience, case mix, difficulty of procedures and level of supervision, should be controlled.

Competency and expert performance should be fully defined.
The 1‐year decline in estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) after radical nephrectomy in patients with renal masses and matched living kidney donors is the same
Authors: Hew Miki N. , Opondo Dedan , Cordeiro Ernesto R. , van Donselaar‐van der Pant Karlijn A.M.I. , Bemelman Frederike J. , Idu Mirza M. , de la Rosette Jean J.M.C.H. , Laguna M. Pilar
Published: July 2013

Objectives

To determine short‐term differences in renal function evolution between patients with renal cell carcinoma (RCC) submitted to radical nephrectomy (RN) and living kidney donors matched for age and gender.

To assess the role of co‐morbidity as a risk factor for developing an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) of <60 mL/min/1.73 m2.

Patients and Methods

In this retrospective study patients undergoing Radical Nefrectomy (RN) between January 2000 and February 2011 for suspicion of localised RCC were matched by age and gender to living kidney donors.

Renal function was compared between the groups using the Modification in Diet and Renal Disease (MDRD) equation at 1 year after RN.

Charlson co‐morbidity score, incidence of hypertension, diabetes and cardiovascular disease were compared and assessed as predictors for developing an eGFR of <60 mL/min/1.73 m2.

Results

In all, 196 patients were included, 98 in each group.

The mean age was respectively 60.6 (RCC group) and 59.1 years (donors).

The 1‐year postoperative mean eGFR (available in 89 patients with RCC and 87 donors) was similar, at a mean (sd) of 56.7 (16.4) mL/min/1.73 m2 in patients with RCC and 56.2 (9.8) mL/min/1.73 m2 in donors (P = 0.83).

In patients with RCC the incidence and severity of co‐morbidities was significantly higher.

A preoperative eGFR of 60–89 mL/min/1.73 m2 was the only independent risk factor for developing a postoperative eGFR of <60 mL/min/1.73 m2 (odds ratio 4.4, confidence interval 2.1–9.5, P < 0.001, 95% confidence interval).

Conclusions

In our cohorts with advanced age the 1‐year follow‐up eGFR was similar in both groups.

Despite increased co‐morbidity in the RCC group there was no increased decline in renal function.

Only reduced preoperative eGFR could be identified as risk factor for developing a postoperative eGFR of <60 mL/min/1.73 m2.
Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) of renal cell carcinoma (RCC): experience in 200 tumours
Authors: Wah Tze M. , Irving Henry C. , Gregory Walter , Cartledge Jon , Joyce Adrian D. , Selby Peter J.
Published: July 2013

Objectives

To evaluate our clinical experience with percutaneous image‐guided radiofrequency ablation (RFA) of 200 renal tumours in a large tertiary referral university institution.

Patients and Methods

Image‐guided RFA (ultrasonography or computed tomography [CT]) of 200 renal tumours in 165 patients from June 2004 to 2012 was prospectively evaluated. Institutional Review Board approval was granted.

The treatment response and technical success were defined by absence of contrast enhancement within the tumour on contrast enhanced CT or magnetic resonance imaging.

Both major and minor complications, glomerular filtration rate (GFR) before and after RFA, the management and outcomes of the complications, as well as oncological outcome were prospectively documented.

Multivariate analysis was used to determine variables associated with major complications and also the percentage GFR change after RFA.

The overall (OS), 5‐year cancer‐specific (CSS), local recurrence‐free (LRFS) and metastasis‐free survival (MFS) rates are presented using the Kaplan–Meier curves.

Results

In all, 200 tumours were RF ablated with a mean (range) tumour size of 2.9 (1–5.6) cm and the mean (range) patient age was 67.7 (21–88.6) years with a mean follow‐up period of 46.1 months.

The primary technical and overall technical success rate was 95.5% and 98.5%, respectively. Two independent predictors of successful RFA in a single sitting were tumour size (<3 cm) and exophytic location in multivariate logistic regression analysis.

Major complications included ureteric injury (six patients), calyceal‐cutaneous fistula (one), acute tubular necrosis (one) and abscess (two). Two independent predictors of ureteric injury were central location and lower pole position.

Within this cohort of patients, only four patients developed significant renal function deterioration i.e. >25% decreased in GFR. In all, 161 (98%) patients of the 165 patients have preservation of renal function. Any change in renal function after RFA was not influenced by tumour factors or solitary kidney status.

In our clinical series, this yielded a 5‐year OS, CSS, LRFS and MFS rates of 75.8%, 97.9%, 93.5% and 87.7% respectively.

Conclusions

Image‐guided RFA is a safe, nephron sparing and effective treatment for small renal cell carcinoma (RCC) tumours with a low rate of recurrence and has good 5‐year CSS and MFS rates.
Climate‐driven generation of a fluvial sheet sand body at the Paleocene–Eocene boundary in north‐west Wyoming (USA)
Authors: Foreman B. Z.
Published: July 2013

An unusually thick and laterally persistent fluvial sand body crops out at the Paleocene–Eocene boundary within the northern part of the Bighorn Basin in northwest Wyoming, USA. The generation of this ‘Boundary Sandstone’ was previously ascribed to a period of reduced subsidence; however, a new carbon isotope record presented herein shows it to be intimately correlated to the Paleocene–Eocene Thermal Maximum (PETM), an extreme global warming event ca. 56 Ma. This study evaluates the impacts of the PETM on fluvial deposition in the basin by integrating sedimentological data with geochemical, palaeoichnological, and palaeobotanical proxy records. Compared to pre‐ and post‐PETM fluvial sand bodies, the Boundary Sandstone is more highly amalgamated, both vertically and laterally, but shows no changes in lithofacies associations, palaeodispersal directions, palaeoflow depths, or palaeochannel widths. At its thickest, the Boundary Sandstone resides entirely within the main body of the PETM, an ca. 113 kyr time interval when global pCO2 levels and temperatures were at their highest, and local mean annual rainfall low, floodplains well drained and vegetation comparatively sparse. The totality of data sets imply that the Boundary Sandstone is related to the preferential removal of fine‐grained floodplain deposits by either: (i) rapid readjustments in river gradients related to documented short‐term precipitation oscillations or (ii) reductions in the cohesiveness of overbank sediments related to decreased rooting density and water table fluctuations. Hence, short‐term climate perturbations may manifest within large‐scale depositional patterns in ways ostensibly like tectonics.
Synthesis, Antibacterial Activities, and 3D‐QSAR of Sulfone Derivatives Containing 1, 3, 4‐Oxadiazole Moiety
Authors: Li Pei , Yin Juan , Xu Weiming , Wu Jian , He Ming , Hu Deyu , Yang Song , Song Baoan
Published: July 2013

A series of sulfone derivatives containing 1, 3, 4‐oxadiazole moiety were prepared and evaluated for their antibacterial activities by the turbidimeter test. Most compounds inhibited growth of Ralstonia solanacearum (R. solanacearum) from tomato and tobacco bacterial wilt with high potency, among which compounds 5a and 5b exhibited the most potent inhibition against R. solanacearum from tomato and tobacco bacterial wilts with EC50 values of 19.77 and 8.29 μg/mL, respectively. Our results also demonstrated that 5a, 5b, and a number of other compounds were more potent than commercial bactericides Kocide 3000 and Thiodiazole Copper, which inhibited R. solanacearum from tomato bacterial wilt with EC50 values of 93.59 and 99.80 μg/mL and tobacco bacterial wilt with EC50 values of 45.91 and 216.70 μg/mL, respectively. The structure–activity relationship (SAR) of compounds was studied using three‐dimensional quantitative structure–activity relationship (3D‐QSAR) models created by comparative molecular field analysis (CoMFA) and comparative molecular similarity index analysis (CoMSIA) based on compound bioactivities against tomato and tobacco bacterial wilts. The 3D‐QSAR models effectively predicted the correlation between inhibitory activity and steric–electrostatic properties of compounds.
Live anatomy of the perineal body in patients with third‐degree rectocele
Authors: Wagenlehner F. M. E. , Del Amo E. , Santoro G. A. , Petros P.
Published: July 2013

Aim

In many pelvic floor disorders, the perineal body is damaged or destroyed. There is still a considerable variation in anatomical descriptions of the perineal body and even more debate with regard to its attachments and relationships. Cadaveric dissections do not always reflect the functional behaviour of structures in the pelvis and description of live anatomy on imaging studies is not always reliable. This study aimed to define the anatomy of the perineal body in patients with rectocele during the live dissection required for minimally invasive surgical repair.

Method

From January 2007 to December 2009 consecutive patients requiring surgery for third‐degree rectocele and symptoms of obstructed defaecation were recruited. Participants underwent dissection of the perineal body, rectum and vagina preliminary to a tissue fixation system, an operation which inserts a tensioned tape to repair the perineal body.

Results

Thirty Caucasian female patients, mean age 61 (range 47–87) years, mean parity 2.6 (range 1–5), were included. Live dissection demonstrated that the perineal body was divided into two parts, joined by a stretched central part, anchored laterally by the deep transverse perineii muscle to the descending ramus of the pubic bone. The mean longitudinal length of the perineal body was 4.5 (3.5–5.5) cm, accounting for 50% of the posterior vaginal support.

Conclusion

In women with low rectocele, the perineal body appears to be divided into two parts, severely displaced behind the ischial tuberosities.
Cultural Diversity, Innovation, and Entrepreneurship: Firm‐level Evidence from London
Authors: Nathan Max , Lee Neil
Published: July 2013

A growing body of research is making links between diversity and the economic performance of cities and regions. Most of the underlying mechanisms take place within firms, but only a handful of organization‐level studies have been conducted. We contribute to this underexplored literature by using a unique sample of 7,600 firms to investigate links among cultural diversity, innovation, entrepreneurship, and sales strategies in London businesses between 2005 and 2007. London is one of the world's major cities, with a rich cultural diversity that is widely seen as a social and economic asset. Our data allowed us to distinguish owner/partner and wider workforce characteristics, identify migrant/minority‐headed firms, and differentiate firms along multiple dimensions. The results, which are robust to most challenges, suggest a small but significant “diversity bonus” for all types of London firms. First, companies with diverse management are more likely to introduce new product innovations than are those with homogeneous “top teams.” Second, diversity is particularly important for reaching international markets and serving London's cosmopolitan population. Third, migrant status has positive links to entrepreneurship. Overall, the results provide some support for claims that diversity is an economic asset, as well as a social benefit.
Trapping ofEuropean buprestid beetles in oak forests using visual and olfactory cues
Authors: Domingue Michael J. , Imrei Zoltán , Lelito Jonathan P. , Muskovits József , Janik Gergely , Csóka György , Mastro Victor C. , Baker Thomas C.
Published: July 2013

Trapping approaches developed for the emerald ash borer (EAB),Agrilus planipennisFairmaire (Coleoptera:Buprestidae), were adapted for trapping severalEuropean oak buprestid species. These approaches included the use of natural leaf surfaces as well as green and purple plastic in sticky trap designs. Plastic surfaces were incorporated into novel ‘branch‐trap’ designs that each presented two 5 × 9‐cm2rectangular surfaces on a cardboard structure wrapped around the leaves of a branch. We used visual adultAgrilusdecoys in an attempt to evoke male mating approaches toward the traps. Our first experiment compared the attractiveness of visual characteristics of the surfaces of branch‐traps. The second looked at the effect on trap captures of adding semiochemical lures, including manuka oil, (Z)‐3‐hexen‐1‐ol, and (Z)‐9‐tricosene. In total, 1 962 buprestid specimens including 14 species from the genusAgriluswere caught on 178 traps in a 22‐day time‐span. Overall, the green plastic‐covered branch‐traps significantly out‐performed the other trap designs. We further found that the presence of anEABvisual decoy placed on the trap surface often increased captures on these green traps, but this effect was stronger for certainAgrilusspecies than for others. The visual decoy was particularly important for the most serious pest detected,Agrilus biguttatusFabricius, which was captured 13 times on traps with decoys, but only once without a decoy. There were some small but significant effects of odor treatment on the capture of buprestids of two common species,Agrilus angustulusIlliger andAgrilus sulcicollisLacordaire. There were also 141Elateridae specimens on these traps, which were not influenced by trap type or decoys. The results suggest that small branch‐traps of this nature can provide a useful new tool for monitoring of buprestids, which have the potential to be further optimized with respect to visual and olfactory cues.
The effect of exercise on plasma concentrations of inflammatory markers in normal and previously laminitic ponies
Authors: Menzies‐Gow N. J. , Wray H. , Bailey S. R. , Harris P. A. , Elliott J.
Published: July 2013

Reasons for performing study

The mechanisms underlying predisposition to pasture‐associated laminitis remain unclear; chronic inflammation is implicated, and this may be exacerbated by physical inactivity.

Objectives

To determine whether exercise affects the inflammatory profile of normal and previously laminitic ponies.

Study design

Prospective case–control study.

Methods

The short (1 day) and longer term (14 days) effects of low intensity (10 min walking and 5 min trotting) exercise on plasma inflammatory marker concentrations in normal (NL) and previously laminitic (PL) nonobese ponies (n = 6/group) was determined. Plasma concentrations ofTNF‐α, serum amyloid A (SAA), haptoglobin, insulin, adiponectin and fibrinogen were assayed by validated/standard methods. Data were analysed using a linear mixed effects model.

Results

Before exercise, plasma [adiponectin] was significantly (P = 0.0001) lower inPL(mean ± s.d. 2.4 ± 0.1 ng/l) than inNL(4.03 ± 0.2 ng/l), but exercise had no effect. Previous laminitis and exercise had no effect on plasma [TNF‐α] or [fibrinogen]. Serum amyloid A concentrations in all ponies were significantly (P = 0.00001) reduced after longer term exercise compared to Day 1 values. Plasma [haptoglobin] was significantly (P = 0.00001) higher inPLcompared toNLon Day 1. This difference was no longer apparent after longer term exercise, such that [haptoglobin] inPLhad decreased to concentrations similar toNL. Following short‐term exercise, all ponies had an initial decrease in serum [insulin] immediately after exercise, followed by an increase peaking 10 min after exercise cessation, before returning to pre‐exercise values. On Day 14 these fluctuations were significantly (P = 0.001) reduced in all ponies.

Conclusions

Fourteen days of low intensity exercise significantly decreased [SAA] in all ponies and plasma [haptoglobin] inPLsuch that it was no longer increased compared toNL. Regular low intensity exercise appears to have an anti‐inflammatory effect, which is possibly greater inPLand so may be beneficial in reducing this putative risk factor in pasture‐associated laminitis.
Ageing and colony‐forming efficiency of human hair follicle keratinocytes
Authors: Lecardonnel Jennifer , Deshayes Nathalie , Genty Gaïanne , Parent Nathalie , Bernard Bruno A. , Rathman‐Josserand Michelle , Paris Maryline
Published: July 2013

The decline of tissue regenerative potential of skin and hair is a hallmark of physiological ageing and may be associated with age‐related changes in tissue‐specific stem cells and/or their environment. Human hair follicles (hHF) contain keratinocytes having the property of stem cells such as clonogenic potential. Growth capacity of hHF keratinocytes shows that most of the colony‐forming cells are classified as holoclones, meroclones or paraclones when analysed in a clonal assay (Cell, Volume 76, page 1063). Despite the well‐known impact of ageing on human hair growth, little is known about changes in hHF keratinocyte clonogenic potential with age. This study aimed at assessing the clone‐forming efficiency (CFE) of hHF keratinocytes from three age groups of human donors. It demonstrates that ageing affects hHF keratinocyte CFE.
Management of hypertension in adults: the 2013 French Society of Hypertension guidelines
Authors: Blacher Jacques , Halimi Jean‐Michel , Hanon Olivier , Mourad Jean‐Jacques , Pathak Atul , Schnebert Bruno , Girerd Xavier ,   the French Society of Hypertension
Published: July 2013

To improve the management of hypertension in the French population, the French Society of Hypertension has decided to issue a new set of guidelines that include the following practical characteristics: usefulness for clinical practice, short, easy‐to‐read format, comprehensive writing for non‐physicians, wide dissemination among healthcare professionals and the hypertensive population, assessment of their impact among healthcare professionals and with regard to public health goals. These guidelines, so‐called the appointments of the hypertensive patient, include 15 recommendations, divided into three chapters, according to the timing of the medical management: prior to treatment initiation, the initial treatment plan (first 6 months) and the long‐term care plan (beyond 6 months). We hope that a vast dissemination of these simple guidelines will help to improve hypertension control in the French population from 50% to 70%, an objective expected to be achieved in 2015 in France.
Serum albumin level is a notable profiling factor for non‐B, non‐C hepatitis virus‐related hepatocellular carcinoma: A data‐mining analysis
Authors: Yamada Shingo , Kawaguchi Atsushi , Kawaguchi Takumi , Fukushima Nobuyoshi , Kuromatsu Ryoko , Sumie Shuji , Takata Akio , Nakano Masahito , Satani Manabu , Tonan Tatsuyuki , Fujimoto Kiminori , Shima Hiroji , Kakuma Tatsuyuki , Torimura Takuji , Charlton Michael R. , Sata Michio
Published: July 2013

Aim

Various factors are underlying for the onset of non‐B, non‐C hepatitis virus‐related hepatocellular carcinoma (NBNC‐HCC). We aimed to investigate the independent risk factors and profiles associated with NBNC‐HCC using a data‐mining technique.

Methods

We conducted a case‐control study and enrolled 223 NBNC‐HCC patients and 669 controls from a health checkup database (n = 176 886). Multivariate analysis, random forest analysis and a decision‐tree algorithm were employed to examine the independent risk factors, factors distinguishing between the case and control groups, and to identify profiles for the incidence of NBNC‐HCC, respectively.

Results

In multivariate analysis, besides γ‐glutamyltransferase (GGT) levels and the Brinkman index, albumin level was an independent negative risk factor for the incidence of NBNC‐HCC (odds ratio = 0.67; 95% confidence interval = 0.60–0.70; P < 0.0001). In random forest analysis, serum albumin level was the highest‐ranked variable for distinguishing between the case and control groups (98 variable importance). A decision‐tree algorithm was created for albumin and GGT levels, the aspartate aminotransferase‐to‐platelet ratio index (APRI) and the Brinkman index. The serum albumin level was selected as the initial split variable, and 82.5% of the subjects with albumin levels of less than 4.01 g/dL were found to have NBNC‐HCC.

Conclusion

Data‐mining analysis revealed that serum albumin level is an independent risk factor and the most distinguishable factor associated with the incidence of NBNC‐HCC. Furthermore, we created an NBNC‐HCC profile consisting of albumin and GGT levels, the APRI and the Brinkman index. This profile could be used in the screening strategy for NBNC‐HCC.
Using iterated local search for solving the flow‐shop problem: Parallelization, parametrization, and randomization issues
Authors: Juan Angel A. , Lourenço Helena R. , Mateo Manuel , Luo Rachel , Castella Quim
Published: July 2013

Iterated local search (ILS) is a powerful framework for developing efficient algorithms for the permutation flow‐shop problem (PFSP). These algorithms are relatively simple to implement and use very few parameters, which facilitates the associated fine‐tuning process. Therefore, they constitute an attractive solution for real‐life applications. In this paper, we discuss some parallelization, parametrization, and randomization issues related to ILS‐based algorithms for solving the PFSP. In particular, the following research questions are analyzed: (a) Is it possible to simplify even more the parameter setting in an ILS framework without affecting performance? (b) How do parallelized versions of these algorithms behave as we simultaneously vary the number of different runs and the computation time? (c) For a parallelized version of these algorithms, is it worthwhile to randomize the initial solution so that different starting points are considered? (d) Are these algorithms affected by the use of a “good‐quality” pseudorandom number generator? In this paper, we introduce the new ILS‐ESP (where ESP is efficient, simple, and parallelizable) algorithm that is specifically designed to take advantage of parallel computing, allowing us to obtain competitive results in “real time” for all tested instances. The ILS‐ESP also uses “natural” parameters, which simplifies the calibration process. An extensive set of computational experiments has been carried out in order to answer the aforementioned research questions.
Evaluation of mixed‐model U‐line operational designs
Authors: Hong Yunsook , Visich John K. , Pinto Peter A. , Khumawala Basheer M.
Published: July 2013

Often in lean manufacturing, multiple products are produced in U‐shaped manufacturing cells to simultaneously achieve product variety and production efficiency. We examine two design issues for mixed‐model U‐lines: work rules (a first‐come‐first‐serve rule and a crossover‐and‐return rule) and inventory flow choices (direct flow and buffered flow). Simulation results indicated that throughput and labor utilization can be improved by implementing a “buffer” with the first‐come‐first‐serve rule. Interestingly, the effectiveness of an inventory flow choice was dependent on the work rule (interaction effect), and relationships among performance dimensions differed across the designs.
Broad‐scale patterns of invertebrate richness and community composition in temporary rivers: effects of flow intermittence
Authors: Datry T. , Larned S. T. , Fritz K. M. , Bogan M. T. , Wood P. J. , Meyer E. I. , Santos A. N.
Published: July 2013

Temporary rivers are increasingly common freshwater ecosystems, but there have been no global syntheses of their community patterns. In this study, we examined the responses of aquatic invertebrate communities to flow intermittence in 14 rivers from multiple biogeographic regions covering a wide range of flow intermittence and spatial arrangements of perennial and temporary reaches. Hydrological data were used to describe flow intermittence (FI, the proportion of the year without surface water) gradients. Linear mixed‐effects models were used to examine the relationships between FI and community structure and composition. We also tested if communities at the most temporary sites were nested subsets of communities at the least temporary and perennial sites. Taxon richness decreased as FI increased and invertebrate communities became dominated by ubiquitous taxa. The number of resilient taxa (with high dispersal capacities) decreased with increased FI, whereas the number of resistant taxa (with adaptations to desiccation) was not related to FI. River‐specific and river‐averaged model comparisons indicated most FI‐community relationships did not differ statistically among rivers. Community nestedness along FI gradients was detected in most rivers and there was little or no influence of the spatial arrangement of perennial and temporary reaches. These results indicate that FI is a primary driver of aquatic communities in temporary rivers, regardless of the biogeographic species pool. Community responses are largely due to resilience rather than resistance mechanisms. However, contrary to our expectations, resilience was not strongly influenced by spatial fragmentation patterns, suggesting that colonist sources other than adjacent perennial reaches were important.
Combating child obesity: impact of HENRY on parenting and family lifestyle
Authors: Willis T. A. , George J. , Hunt C. , Roberts K. P. J. , Evans C. E. L. , Brown R. E. , Rudolf M. C. J.
Published: July 2013

What is already known about this subject

The rise in child obesity poses a serious public health challenge.

It has been argued that efforts may be best targeted towards prevention, but there is a relative dearth of initiatives targeting infants.

Earlier evaluation of the impact of HENRY (Health Exercise Nutrition for the Really Young) has shown an improvement in the way practitioners work with families and a positive impact upon their work setting and personal life.

What this study adds

This study of the impact on families found that parents participating in HENRY groups report a healthier family lifestyle, which was sustained at follow‐up.

Participants reported increased parental self‐efficacy around lifestyle change and parenting generally.

They also reported increased consumption of fruit and vegetables; positive changes in mealtime behaviours and reduced screen time.

Background

One‐quarter of children in England are overweight/obese at school entry. We investigated the impact of a programme designed to provide parents of infants and preschool children with the skills required for a healthier family lifestyle.

Method

A cohort of families was followed across the 8‐week HENRY (Health Exercise Nutrition for the Really Young) parent course at nine locations in England. Seventy‐seven parents enrolled on the course, of which 71 agreed to complete questionnaires addressing eating behaviours, dietary intake and parental self‐efficacy. Pre‐ and post‐course data was available from 60 (84.5%) parents (8‐week follow‐up data from 58 parents) and was analysed using repeated measures analyses.

Results

Significant changes were observed, with most sustained at follow‐up. Parents reported increased self‐efficacy and ability to encourage good behaviour (P < 0.001). Increased consumption of fruits and vegetables was reported in both children and adults, together with reduced consumption of sweets, cakes and fizzy drinks in adults (all P < 0.01). There were also positive changes in eating behaviours (e.g. frequency of family mealtimes and eating while watching television or in response to negative emotion [P < 0.01] ) and reduced screen time in adults (P < 0.001).

Discussion

The results build upon earlier evaluation, indicating that the HENRY intervention has a beneficial impact upon the families of infants and preschool children. Furthermore, the findings suggest that positive changes inspired by the programme can be maintained beyond its completion. Such changes may serve to protect against later obesity.
Silicon Oxynitride Ceramics Prepared by Plasma Activated Sintering of Nanosized Amorphous Silicon Nitride Powder without Additives
Authors: Fan Lei , Shi Zhongqi , Lu Xuefeng , Wang Chao , Chen Meng , Li Yawen , Wang Hongjie
Published: July 2013

Si2N2O ceramics were prepared by plasma activated sintering using nanosized amorphous Si3N4 powder without sintering additives within a temperature range of 1400°C–1600°C in vacuum. A mixed Si–N4−n–On (n = 0, 1…4) amorphous structure was formed in the process of sintering, and Si2N2O crystals were nucleated where the local structure was similar with Si2N2O. After sintering at 1600°C, the Si2N2O ceramic was composed of elongated plate‐like Si2N2O grains and amorphous phase. The Si2N2O grains showed a width of less than 100 nm and a very high aspect ratio.
Nonaqueous Sol–Gel Synthesis of Magnetic Iron Oxides Nanocrystals
Authors: Florini Nicola , Barrera Gabriele , Tiberto Paola , Allia Paolo , Bondioli Federica
Published: July 2013

Benzyl alcohol route, starting form Fe(III) acetylacetonate, was applied to obtain crystalline magnetite nanoparticles. In particular, the effect of synthesis parameters (time and temperature) and use of SOCl2 on the physical and magnetic properties of the so‐obtained powders were evaluated. By means of this approach, monocrystalline magnetite particles with size ranging from 5 to 15 nm were obtained.
Mitochondrial dynamics modulate the expression of pro‐inflammatory mediators in microglial cells
Authors: Park Junghyung , Choi Hoonsung , Min Ju‐Sik , Park Sun‐Ji , Kim Jung‐Hak , Park Hyo‐Jin , Kim Bokyung , Chae Jung‐Il , Yim Mijung , Lee Dong‐Seok
Published: July 2013

Over‐activation of microglia cells in the brain contributes to neurodegenerative processes promoted by the production of various neurotoxic factors including pro‐inflammatory cytokines and nitric oxide. Recently, accumulating evidence has suggested that mitochondrial dynamics are an important constituent of cellular quality control and function. However, the role of mitochondrial dynamics in microglial activation is still largely unknown. In this study, we determined whether mitochondrial dynamics are associated with the production of pro‐inflammatory mediators in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐stimulated immortalization of murine microglial cells (BV‐2) by a v‐raf/v‐myc carrying retrovirus (J2). Excessive mitochondrial fission was observed in lentivirus‐transfected BV‐2 cells stably expressing DsRed2‐mito following LPS stimulation. Furthermore, mitochondrial localization of dynamin‐related protein 1 (Drp1) (a key regulator of mitochondrial fission) was increased and accompanied by de‐phosphorylation of Ser637 in Drp1. Interestingly, inhibition of LPS‐induced mitochondrial fission and reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation by Mdivi‐1 and Drp1 knock‐down attenuated the production of pro‐inflammatory mediators via reduced nuclear factor kappa‐light‐chain‐enhancer of activated B cells (NF‐κB) and mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling. Our results demonstrated for the first time that mitochondrial fission regulates mitochondrial ROS production in activated microglial cells and influences the expression of pro‐inflammatory mediators through the activation of NF‐κB and MAPK. We therefore suggest that mitochondrial dynamics may be essential for understanding pro‐inflammatory mediator expression in activated microglial cells. This could represent a new therapeutic approach for preventing neurodegenerative diseases.

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LPS induced excessive mitochondrial fission through mitochondrial localization of de‐phosphorylation of Ser637 Drp1. Interestingly, inhibition of LPS‐induced mitochondrial fission and mitochondrial ROS generation by Mdivi‐1 and Drp1 shRNA attenuate the production of pro‐inflammatory mediators via reduced NF‐κB and MAPK signaling. Our results suggest that mitochondrial dynamics may be essential for understanding pro‐inflammatory mediator expression in activated microglial cells.
Sexual activity and adolescent health risk behaviours amongst high school students in three ethnic Chinese urban populations
Authors: Ong Jason , Wong William , Lee Albert , Holroyd Eleanor , Huang Song Yuen
Published: July 2013

Aims and objectives

To compare sexually active Chinese high school students in three major Asian cities with their non‐sexually active counterparts in order to determine prevalence and associations with selected health outcomes.

Background

There have been limited studies to date on the association between sexual activity and substance use in Chinese high schools. While the role of the school nurse in the development of sexual health and harm reduction education in secondary schools has been well documented in international studies, this has received little attention in Asia.

Design

Cross‐sectional survey.

Methods

This study was administered in 2003/2004 to 13,895 Grades 6 to 12 high school students in Hong Kong (3498), Macau (6286) and Taipei (4111). Descriptive analysis was conducted followed by univariate analysis comparing sexual behaviour with (1) substance use including alcohol, smoking, illicit drugs; (2) feeling depressed for greater than or equal to two weeks in last 12 months; contemplating suicide during the last 12 months; and (3) perception of poor health/academic performance.

Results

The students (8%) reported being sexually active had marked differences in selected health outcomes when compared with the nonsexually experienced students. More than 90% of the sexually active students had tried alcohol, with more than 50% being regular drinkers, more than 30% testifying to binge drinking and nearly 50% reported depression in the past 12 months. Substance use, poorer perception of health and academic performance were also significantly higher in the sexually experienced students relative to their nonexperienced counterparts.

Conclusions

Sexually experienced Chinese high school students surveyed were at higher risk of substance abuse, poorer psychological health and academic performance.

Relevance to clinical practice

Community and public health nursing needs to address Asian adolescent sexual health education needs, in particular provide culturally targeted interventions for associated substance abuse and psychological health within the context of high school sex education.
Perceptions of ageing as an older gay man: a qualitative study
Authors: Kushner Bernie , Neville Stephen , Adams Jeffery
Published: July 2013

Aims and objectives

To explore the ageing experiences of gay men inNewZealand over the age of 65 years.

Background

An increased acceptance by many people in Western societies towards men who are same‐sex attracted is likely to result in a corresponding increase in the number of visible older gay men being the recipients of nursing care. Previous research has shown that nursing has some way to go towards providing a service that is culturally safe and appropriate.

Design

A critical gerontological approach was employed to explore the ageing experiences of gay men inNewZealand over the age of 65 years. This methodology ensured the voices of older gay men were foregrounded in the research.

Methods

Semi‐structured digitally recorded individual interviews with 12 gay men aged between 65–81 years who lived in the community were undertaken. Data were analysed using thematic analysis to identify the repeated patterns across the men's talk.

Results

Three main themes relating to the ageing experiences of these men were identified: ‘homophobia’, ‘being with someone’ and ‘future care’.

Conclusions

Resilience was a significant factor in how well older gay men aged even in an environment where homophobia and heterosexism were common. Having a strong social support network was an important factor that contributed to supporting the ageing process. These gay men were wary about having to go into residential care, preferring to age in their own homes.

Relevance to clinical practice

Nurses and other healthcare professionals need to ensure healthcare services meet the needs of older gay men. Any interaction with older gay men should occur in a way that is open and respectful. The usage of best practice guidelines will assist organisations to deliver culturally safe and appropriate care to this group.
Post‐partum urinary retention in a teaching hospital in southwestern Nigeria
Authors: Ajenifuja Kayode Olusegun , Oyetunji IfeOluwa Ololade , Orji Ernest Okechukwu , Adepiti Clement Akinfolarin , Loto Olabisi Morebise , Tijani Mikhail Aramide , Dare Francis Oriola
Published: July 2013

Aim

This study was undertaken to determine the prevalence of post‐partum urinary retention after vaginal delivery and to examine the associated risk factors.

Material and Methods

This was a prospective observational study carried out over a 2‐month period at the major university teaching hospital in southwestern Nigeria.

Results

Prevalence of post‐partum urinary retention was 29.4%. The majority (93.3%) of women had covert urinary retention while 6.7% had overt urinary retention. From the bivariate analysis, episiotomy, reduced voiding desire and primiparity were risk factors for post‐partum urinary retention (66.6% vs 30.6%; P = 0.017; 47.75% vs 13.9%; P = 0.037; and 60.0% vs 30.6%; P = 0.05; respectively).

Conclusion

Post‐partum urinary retention, particularly covert retention, is a common complication of labor and delivery in our clinical practice but is rarely reported in the published work, especially from this part of the world. No factor has been found to be independently associated with its occurrence, hence there is need for vigilance in the immediate post‐partum period as most cases of urinary retention would have been avoided if women were encouraged to void early following delivery.
Surgical approach to a vulval–pubic cartilaginous cyst: A case report and review of published work
Authors: Gajjar Ketan , Robati Shahin , Packer Greg , Razvi Khalil
Published: July 2013

Cartilaginous cyst of symphysis pubis is rare and to our knowledge 12 cases have been reported in the published work. Although cartilaginous cysts of the vulva and pubis are likely to present to a gynecologist as a vulval–pubic mass, their diagnosis and management warrants a multidisciplinary team approach because of their rarity and anatomical location. Non‐invasive diagnosis includes magnetic resonance imaging and ultrasound scan, while the invasive preoperative biopsy is reserved for cases with a high index of suspicion of malignancy. The surgical approach for the management of vulval–pubic cartilaginous cyst is not well established. The current case demonstrates a joint surgical approach involving a gynecologist and orthopedic surgeon in management of a degenerative cartilaginous cyst. As this condition is benign, every effort should be made to preserve the stability of the pubic symphysis. Symphyseal dysfunction from surgery remains a potential complication for which treatment is not straightforward.