bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Measuring leader behaviour: evidence for a “big five” model of leadership
Authors: Langford Peter H. , Dougall Cameron B. , Parkes Louise P.
Published: May 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide evidence for a “leadership big five”, a model of leadership behaviour integrating existing theories of leadership and conceptually aligned with the most established model of personality, the big five. Such a model provides researchers and practitioners with a common language to describe leadership behaviour in a field with a plethora of leadership models. The model also describes a wider range of leadership behaviour than other models of leadership, and presents dimensions that correlate with important organisational outcomes as demonstrated in this study.

Design/methodology/approach

In total, 1,186 employees completed the Voice Leadership 360, a survey designed to measure the leadership big five, collectively rating 193 managers from a range of different sectors and industries, using a 360-degree survey methodology.

Findings

Confirmatory factor analyses and internal reliability analyses provide evidence for 22 lower-order factors of leadership behaviour that aggregate into five higher-order factors of leadership aligned with the big five personality descriptors. Further evidence for the validity of the model is indicated by significant correlations between 360-degree survey ratings and raters’ judgements of leaders’ personality, and significant correlations between 360-degree survey ratings and both work unit engagement levels and manager reports of work unit performance.

Research limitations/implications

The cross-sectional design is the main limitation of the present study, limiting conclusions that changes in leadership behaviours will lead to changes in organisational outcomes. The primary research implications of this study include the support for an integrating model of leadership behaviour that aligns with a large body of psychological research, as well as the development of a survey that can be used for future exploration of the model.

Practical implications

Practitioners may use the results of the study to rethink how they develop competency frameworks and measure leadership behaviour in organisation development contexts. This broad model of leadership and the familiarity of its dimensions could increase the effectiveness of behaviour change interventions, and the presented survey provides a reliable and valid tool for 360-degree assessments.

Originality/value

The study provides evidence that leadership can be described in a structurally similar way to human personality. It presents a leadership model that consists of a broader range of leadership behaviours related to organisational outcomes compared with previous models of leadership.
Network ties and transactive memory systems: leadership as an enabler
Authors: Cabeza Pulles Dainelis , LLorens Montes Francisco Javier , Gutierrez-Gutierrrez Leopoldo
Published: May 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to study the relationship between network ties (NT) and transactive memory systems (TMS), observed through three dimensions – specialization (TMSS), credibility (TMSCR), and coordination (TMSCO) – in the presence of leadership (LDR) as a moderating variable, in university research-and-development (R&D) groups.

Design/methodology/approach

The data are composed of 257 university R&D groups. To confirm the hypotheses, the authors use multiple linear regression analysis with a moderating effect.

Findings

The conclusions show that the relationships between NT and two of the three dimensions of TMS (TMSCR and TMSCO) are significant when LDR is included as a moderating variable. Although the effect of TMSS is positive, it is not significant. Including the interaction element enables better explanation of two of the dimensions of TMS in the sector analyzed. Thus, LDR is perfectly applicable to the university R&D environment.

Research limitations/implications

This research has several limitations that suggest further possibilities for empirical research. The limitations include the cross-sectional nature of the research and the judgment of a single manager as the basis of the perception analyzed for each group.

Practical implications

The authors provide several implications for R&D practitioners. The results of this study could be validated in other universities in other geographic areas, enabling better generalization and applicability of the results. The results described may serve as a guide for group leaders of university R&D. This research helps us to see the importance of LDR in forming internal research networks that help researchers to perform common projects in order to obtain better results in the group. Thus, the groups provided better results to society.

Originality/value

No studies have tested the moderating effect of LDR in university R&D empirically. The results provide information to fill this gap and demonstrate the applicability of LDR as a key element in the organization, improvement, and cohesion of R&D groups.
Obersalzberg as a realm of experience on the quality of visitors' experiences at National Socialist places of remembrance
Authors: Aschauer Wolfgang , Weichbold Martin , Foidl Miriam , Drecoll Axel
Published: May 2017

Purpose

The paper aims to explore the array of individual experiences (initial reactions and impact and lasting impressions) relating to Obersalzberg, an authentic site of National Socialist history that had originally been Adolf Hitler’s holiday residence in the 1930s and later became an important Government centre during the Second World War. Obersalzberg is considered a “site of the perpetrators” because here war crimes were planned on a major scale but carried out elsewhere.

Design/methodology/approach

The study uses innovative methodological approaches to capture initial reactions and lasting impressions of the visit. These include extensive, qualitative interviews with visitors (n = 20), and to clarify the long-term effects of the visit, phone interviews were conducted with selected visitors (n = 22) three months after the visit. The aim of the study is to increase the existing pool of knowledge on the quality of experience of visitors to National Socialist sites.

Findings

Overall assessment of the exhibition and the analysis of individual sections of it and individual objects clearly showed that a visit to Obersalzberg is an emotional experience for many people that “gets under the skin” and can possibly never be forgotten. Although the impact of the exhibition is different for each individual, various modes of confrontation with the exhibition contents are discernible in the visitors. Although these are naturally also dependent upon the degree of knowledge and the motives for the visit, spontaneous reactions certainly also occur – depending on the intensity of the examination of the topic of National Socialism. The four reactions to the events can be designated as modes of rationalization, memory, empathy and overwhelming distress.

Originality/value

This paper sheds new light on the reaction of visitors to this kind of exhibition. Visitors find themselves thinking over what they have seen, and together with their overall assessment of the exhibition, visitors go into detail about many particularly moving topics; they are stunned about the world view of those in power at that time and the resulting events; they report on surprising, new knowledge about Obersalzberg; many times, they express empathy toward the evicted residents and experience the bunker as a formidable complex. Their past experiences are often linked to the present, even if the quality and intensity of the experience is different for each individual.
Dendritic cell‐targeting DNA‐based nasal adjuvants for protective mucosal immunity to Streptococcus pneumoniae
Authors: Kataoka Kosuke , Fukuyama Yoshiko , Briles David E. , Miyake Tatsuro , Fujihashi Kohtaro
Published: May 2017

To develop safe vaccines for inducing mucosal immunity to major pulmonary bacterial infections, appropriate vaccine antigens (Ags), delivery systems and nontoxic molecular adjuvants must be considered. Such vaccine constructs can induce Ag‐specific immune responses that protect against mucosal infections. In particular, it has been shown that simply mixing the adjuvant with the bacterial Ag is a relatively easy means of constructing adjuvant‐based mucosal vaccine preparations; the resulting vaccines can elicit protective immunity. DNA‐based nasal adjuvants targeting mucosal DCs have been studied in order to induce Ag‐specific mucosal and systemic immune responses that provide essential protection against microbial pathogens that invade mucosal surfaces. In this review, initially a plasmid encoding the cDNA of Flt3 ligand (pFL), a molecule that is a growth factor for DCs, as an effective adjuvant for mucosal immunity to pneumococcal infections, is introduced. Next, the potential of adding unmethylated CpG oligodeoxynucleotide and pFL together with a pneumococcal Ag to induce protection from pneumococcal infections is discussed. Pneumococcal surface protein A has been used as vaccine for restoring mucosal immunity in older persons. Further, our nasal pFL adjuvant system with phosphorylcholine‐keyhole limpet hemocyanin (PC‐KLH) has also been used in pneumococcal vaccine development to induce complete protection from nasal carriage by Streptococcus pneumoniae. Finally, the possibility that anti‐PC antibodies induced by nasal delivery of pFL plus PC‐KLH may play a protective role in prevention of atherogenesis and thus block subsequent development of cardiovascular disease is discussed.
Constitutional Illegitimacy over Brexit
Authors: Eleftheriadis Pavlos
Published: May 2017

Members and supporters of the British government say that the only constitutionally legitimate course of action over Brexit after the referendum is to press ahead with withdrawal from the European Union, even if that would entail the complete severance of all ties (which we normally call ‘hard Brexit’). A more sophisticated view of the constitution, however, shows that these more or less populist arguments are false. As the Supreme Court confirmed in the recent Gina Miller judgment, the constitution did not change with the June referendum. Parliament is still supreme and determines both ordinary legislation and constitutional change. In fact, if one examines closely the claim that the referendum entails hard Brexit, it becomes obvious that this claim is false as well. The referendum opened the door for one among four different possibilities. Which Brexit option—if any—the United Kingdom should take is a matter for Parliament now to decide, following the normal processes of democratic deliberation and representation.
Introduction: New Perspectives on Secularisation in Britain (and Beyond)
Authors: Gibson William
Published: May 2017

This introductory article reviews the recent developments in the debate on secularisation to establish the context within which the articles in this collection are located. It argues that the debate is complex and multi‐faceted, and has been subject to refocus and redefinition in the last decade. The article traces the contributors' previous interventions in the debate, and summarises the articles in this volume. It concludes that the theme of secularisation remains of continuing interest to scholars precisely because it has such broad collections between history and other disciplines. Moreover, the secularisation debate continues to engage scholars on different sides of the enlightenment divide.
The High‐Rise Home: Verticality as Practice in London
Authors: Baxter Richard
Published: May 2017

This article investigates the relationship between verticality and home. It develops the idea of ‘verticality as practice'. This appreciates verticality not as something that takes place in three‐dimensional landscapes, but as the outcome of everyday practical activity. Examining a modernist high‐rise estate, the Aylesbury Estate in London, the article identifies and examines a range of vertical practices, illustrating how they are intertwined with home. Vertical practices, such as those associated with the view, help to make a unique and special home, becoming intensely meaningful to residents. However, they also unmake dimensions of home when they interact with the estate's marginality.
Critically Interrogating Eco‐Homes
Authors: Pickerill Jenny
Published: May 2017

Eco‐homes have only been researched in fragmented and partial ways, which fail to adequately examine their complexities and possibilities. Numerous myths about eco‐homes persist in the public imagination and policy support has been mixed with, in practice, little change to the construction of contemporary homes. The ecological and social potential of eco‐homes are being undermined by a technocratic focus, the capacity and behaviour of occupants, and a weakening of design as developments are scaled up. This intervention identifies five ways in which eco‐homes need to be more robustly interrogated to strengthen their potential, through their breadth and diversity, dynamic nature, socio‐material interdependencies, place, and understanding of their political economies. Crucially these interrogations need to be researched simultaneously to ensure that the full diversity of eco‐homes is understood through their multiple interdependencies, multi‐scalar practices and materialities.
The state and the development of an information society: Greek policy and experience
Authors: Boucas Dimitris
Published: May 2017

The paper looks into the dynamics of information society policy and its implementation in the Greek context. It argues that information society development is a contested process, influenced by pre‐existing state, economy and society relations. Based on this, it looks into the different aspects of the idiosyncratic path which the evolution of the Greek information society has followed, particularly after 2000. Using Bob Jessop's strategic‐relational approach (SRA) to the state as an analytical framework and drawing on a number of in‐depth interviews with relevant political actors, it provides insights into policy implementation by examining: the public management of information technology projects, how such projects were received in bureaucratic structures and practices, as well as the relationship between the state and the information and communication technology (ICT) sector in public procurement processes. The emphasis is on the period 2000–2008, during which a major operational programme on the information society in Greece was put into effect. The paper also touches upon the post‐2008 experience, suggesting that information society developments might include dynamics operating independently and even in contradiction to the state agenda.
Safety and effectiveness of female tubal sterilisation by hysteroscopy, laparoscopy, or laparotomy: a register based study
Authors: Jokinen E , Heino A , Karipohja T , Gissler M , Hurskainen R
Published: May 2017

Objective

To determine the safety and effectiveness of female sterilisation in the Finnish population.

Design

A national register‐based study using record linkage.

Setting

National data from Finland.

Sample

A total of 16 272 female sterilisations performed in 2009–2014.

Methods

The Register of Sterilisations was linked with the Hospital Discharge Register, Termination of Pregnancy Register, and the Medical Birth Register in order to investigate the occurrence of re‐sterilisations, other surgical operations, and unwanted pregnancies after sterilisation, per method.

Main outcome measures

Outcome measures included all pregnancies after sterilisation (births, miscarriages, terminations of pregnancy, and ectopic pregnancies) and operations (repeat sterilisations, other hysteroscopic and laparoscopic procedures, hysterectomies, and re‐operations for a complication). The outcomes were presented by method as risk ratio (RR) with 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs).

Results

There was no significant difference in all spontaneous pregnancies between the groups. The risk ratio for any pregnancy was 1.27 (95% Cl 0.80–2.02) for Filshie® versus Essure® and 1.35 (95% Cl 0.92–1.96) for Pomeroy versus Essure®. In total, 1394 (8.6%) selected operations were identified after primary sterilisation. Re‐sterilisations and hysteroscopies were most frequent among Essure® patients.

Conclusions

Patients undergoing hysteroscopic or laparoscopic sterilisation have a similar risk of unintended pregnancy. All sterilisations are safe, and the risk of re‐operations because of complications is low. Women with Essure® have a higher risk of undergoing re‐sterilisation compared with patients undergoing laparoscopic sterilisation.

Tweetable abstract

Essure®, Filshie®, and Pomeroy sterilisations are equally effective and safe.
White‐tailed Deer as a Taphonomic Agent: Photographic Evidence of White‐tailed Deer Gnawing on Human Bone
Authors: Meckel Lauren A. , McDaneld Chloe P. , Wescott Daniel J.
Published: May 2017

Ungulate gnawing on bone has been reported in the taphonomic and zooarchaeological literature, but there are no known reports of ungulates altering human remains. Herein, we report on the first known photographic evidence of deer gnawing human remains. As described in nonhuman scavenging literature, forking of the bone characterizes the taphonomic effect of deer gnawing in this case, which is distinct from the effect caused by other scavengers. This type of osteophagia during the winter season is consistent with previously documented behavior of deer gnawing on nonhuman bone, possibly to obtain minerals absent in their diet. In this study, we briefly discuss the distinguishing features of ungulate gnawing, the reasons for this behavior, and possible confusion with other common types of scavenging and modification. This report contributes to taphonomic literature covering the range of animal interactions with human skeletal remains.
Human Factors Effecting Forensic Decision Making: Workplace Stress and Well‐being
Authors: Jeanguenat Amy M. , Dror Itiel E.
Published: May 2017

Over the past decade, there has been a growing openness about the importance of human factors in forensic work. However, most of it focused on cognitive bias, and neglected issues of workplace wellness and stress. Forensic scientists work in a dynamic environment that includes common workplace pressures such as workload volume, tight deadlines, lack of advancement, number of working hours, low salary, technology distractions, and fluctuating priorities. However, in addition, forensic scientists also encounter a number of industry‐specific pressures, such as technique criticism, repeated exposure to crime scenes or horrific case details, access to funding, working in an adversarial legal system, and zero tolerance for “errors”. Thus, stress is an important human factor to mitigate for overall error management, productivity and decision quality (not to mention the well‐being of the examiners themselves). Techniques such as mindfulness can become powerful tools to enhance work and decision quality.
Critical review of desalination in Spain: a resource for the future?
Authors: Morote Álvaro‐Francisco , Rico Antonio‐Manuel , Moltó Enrique
Published: May 2017

There have been significant territorial changes in the Spanish Mediterranean in the last few decades because of the important growth of residential tourism functions. The Spanish National Hydrological Plan () and, to a greater extent, the Action for Management and Use of Water Programme () advocated large‐scale desalination of seawater to guarantee a supply for urban, tourism, and even future agricultural demands. The paralysis of urban development planning caused by the financial crisis (2007/08), together with the downward trend in the consumption of drinking water in the last decade, highlighted a capacity to produce desalinated water that was far superior to actual needs. This study reviews the current context in which desalinated water is produced in Spain, weighs up the advantages and disadvantages of this method of water management, and considers the potential role that this non‐conventional source of water could play as a strategic resource in the future. The main findings of the study are that desalination is not a panacea; rather, it should be considered in terms of technological parameters tailored to the circumstances of each geographical and socioeconomic environment.
Accuracy of dual bolus single acquisition computed tomography in the diagnosis and grading of adult traumatic splenic parenchymal and vascular injury
Authors: Marovic Paul , Beech Paul Anthony , Koukounaras Jim , Kavnoudias Helen , Goh Gerard S
Published: May 2017

Introduction

Dual Bolus Single Acquisition Computed Tomography (DBSA‐CT) has been advocated for use in trauma imaging through its ability to concurrently optimise abdominal arterial and visceral parenchymal enhancement while minimising scan times and radiation dose. However, concerns have been raised regarding excessive splenic parenchymal heterogeneity using this technique. The purpose of this study is to establish and compare the accuracy of DBSA‐CT to traditional sequential multiphase scanning techniques in the diagnosis and grading of traumatic adult splenic injury.

Methods

All patients diagnosed with a traumatic splenic parenchymal and/or vascular injury using DBSA‐CT at a Level 1 trauma centre, who then proceeded to Digital Subtraction Angiography (DSA) or surgery were used for analysis over the time period June 2014 to March 2016. Two consultant radiologists each independently retrospectively reviewed all CT examinations documenting the degree of splenic heterogeneity, splenic injury grade using the American Association for the Surgery of Trauma (AAST) system and presence of vascular injury. Individual radiologist accuracy and inter‐observer variability were evaluated.

Results

Splenic parenchymal enhancement was diagnostic in all cases with, at worst, moderate splenic heterogeneity. CT AAST parenchymal injury grading correlated poorly with operative findings. Average radiologist diagnostic sensitivity was 50.0% and 38.9% for active arterial haemorrhage and pseudoaneurysm, respectively, when correlated with DSA findings. Inter‐observer agreement ranged from moderate to excellent in all cases.

Conclusion

Dual Bolus Single Acquisition Computed Tomography may lead to reduced radiologist accuracy in the diagnosis of splenic injury, particularly pseudoaneurysm; however, such conclusions remain tentative given the small patient numbers examined.
China's Marine Fishery and Global Ocean Governance
Authors: Zhang Hongzhou , Wu Fengshi
Published: May 2017

This paper first examines two most significant structural shifts in China's marine fishery sector in the past decades, namely, expanding outward and going after high market value species. It then explains how domestic policies and development strategies have shaped the trajectory of China's marine fishery sector, and analyzes the obstacles rooted in both domestic socio‐political settings and global governance that have impeded policy reform and effective enforcement in China to ensure marine sustainability and international cooperation. Lastly, the paper explores possible options for transnational advocacy actors that are concerned with the global impact of China's growing fisheries.
Redesigning Indian Ocean Fisheries Governance for 21st Century Sustainability
Authors: van der Geest Claire
Published: May 2017

Goal 14 of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals recognises the continued pressure on marine ecosystems and the need to implement performance based management arrangements for fisheries. Reformulating governance arrangements are prerequisites for achieving this: rectifying gaps while giving effect to existing hortatory obligations enable effective management decisions including for new and/or emerging issues such as climate change. This is particularly evident in the Indian Ocean, which is surrounded by developing states, and where the climate change impacts already evident. Indian Ocean fisheries governance arrangements are also imperfect: there is incomplete coverage of highly migratory species and high seas areas; and no one organisation where all relevant states share membership. Furthermore, the limited resources of developing coastal states restricts the ability to effectively understand and sustainably manage the resources. If developing coastal states are to meet 21st century challenges, governance arrangements must be modernised to address species, spatial and membership gaps while supporting the implementation of hortatory obligations and ocean‐wide, cross‐sectorial and cross‐jurisdictional programs that: facilitate ocean‐wide scientific monitoring of ecological processes and anthropogenic impacts, and enable integrated monitoring, control and surveillance (MCS) of fishing with the adopted management measures to improve certainty of the management.
Development of Glycaspis brimblecombeiMoore (Hemiptera: Aphalaridae) on Eucalyptus camaldulensisDehnh. and Eucalyptus dunniiMaiden
Authors: Cuello Eliana M. , López Silvia N. , Andorno Andrea V. , Hernández Carmen M. , Botto Eduardo N.
Published: May 2017

The red gum lerp psyllid Glycaspis brimblecombei is an invasive insect species, native from Australia, that specifically feeds on Eucalyptus trees. It has invaded several countries throughout the world. In Argentina, it was first recorded in 2005, although little is known about its ecology in the region.

We assessed G. brimblecombei population development on Eucalypus camaldulensis and Eucalyptus dunnii using samples of branches for the immature stages and yellow sticky traps for the adults. We also identified the meteorological variables associated with changes in the red gum lerp psyllid abundance.

The abundance of eggs, nymphs and adults stages of G. brimblecombei was significantly greater on E. camaldulensis than on E. dunnii in the 2 years of the survey.

Glycaspis brimblecombei development was complete on E. camaldulensis where all instars were present, even in the unfavourable seasons. The full development of the psyllid population was not observed in E. dunnii where a high mortality of the first and second nymphal instars was detected.

Temperature and relative humidity were the variables that mostly affected red gum lerp psyllid abundance, whereas no effect of rainfall was detected.
Comparative development and reproduction ofPlanococcus ficusandPlanococcus citri(Hemiptera:Pseudococcidae) on grapevine under field conditions
Authors: Cocco Arturo , Mura Alessandra , Muscas Enrico , Lentini Andrea
Published: May 2017

Mealybugs are major pests in grape‐growing areas worldwide, causing direct and indirect crop damage. The vine mealybugPlanococcus ficus(Signoret) is a key pest in most of grape‐producing countries, whereas the citrus mealybugPlanococcus citri(Risso) is reported as being destructive inBrazilian andSpanish vineyards.

We examined the adaptation of the citrus mealybug to grapevine by investigating its development, reproduction and life‐history parameters underMediterranean field conditions in comparison with those ofP. ficus.

Both mealybug species developed and reproduced successfully on grapevine. However,P. ficusshowed a shorter development time, larger female body size, and higher fecundity, fertility and survival thanP. citri.

The life‐history parameters further highlighted the different growth potential of vine and citrus mealybug populations becauseP. ficusexhibited a net reproductive rate and an intrinsic rate of increase two‐ to four‐fold higher than that ofP. citri. Furthermore, the vine mealybug population doubled its number in approximately half time with respect to the citrus mealybug.

Overall, the results of the present study show a better development and reproductive performance and a higher population growth potential ofP. ficuscompared withP. citri, indicating a higher capacity of the vine mealybug to develop on grapevine inMediterranean vineyards.
Management of epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor‐related cutaneous and gastrointestinal toxicities
Authors: Aw Derrick Chen‐Wee , Tan Eng Huat , Chin Tan Min , Lim Hong Liang , Lee Haur Yueh , Soo Ross A.
Published: May 2017

Patients with advanced stage non–small cell lung cancer with sensitizing epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutations using EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) such as erlotinib, gefitinib and afatinib as first‐line treatment had better progression‐free survival, overall response rate and quality of life than those on chemotherapy. Although EGFR TKIs are commonly associated with skin‐related (rash, xerosis and paronychia) and gastrointestinal‐related (diarrhea and stomatitis) adverse events (AEs), these effects are usually mild. But severe cases can occur, significantly affecting patient's well‐being, treatment compliance and quality of life. Therefore, patient education, early diagnosis, and prophylactic treatment are important strategies to optimally manage EGFR TKI‐related adverse effects. In this review, we summarize the commonly encountered EGFR TKI‐related AEs and provide a current overview of AE management in local practice with a focus on Asian patients.
Randomised clinical trial: addition of alginate‐antacid (Gaviscon Double Action) to proton pump inhibitor therapy in patients with breakthrough symptoms
Authors: Coyle C. , Crawford G. , Wilkinson J. , Thomas S. J. , Bytzer P.
Published: May 2017

Background

Symptomatic breakthrough in proton pump inhibitor (PPI)‐treated gastro‐oesophageal reflux disease (GERD) patients is a common problem with a range of underlying causes. The nonsystemic, raft‐forming action of alginates may help resolve symptoms.

Aim

To assess alginate‐antacid (Gaviscon Double Action, RB, Slough, UK) as add‐on therapy to once‐daily PPI for suppression of breakthrough reflux symptoms.

Methods

In two randomised, double‐blind studies (exploratory, n=52; confirmatory, n=262), patients taking standard‐dose PPI who had breakthrough symptoms, assessed by Heartburn Reflux Dyspepsia Questionnaire (HRDQ), were randomised to add‐on Gaviscon or placebo (20 mL after meals and bedtime). The exploratory study endpoint was change in HRDQ score during treatment vs run‐in. The confirmatory study endpoint was “response” defined as ≥3 days reduction in the number of “bad” days (HRDQ [heartburn/regurgitation] >0.70) during treatment vs run‐in.

Results

In the exploratory study, significantly greater reductions in HRDQ scores (heartburn/regurgitation) were observed in the Gaviscon vs placebo (least squares mean difference [95% CI] −2.10 [−3.71 to −0.48]; P=.012). Post hoc “responder” analysis of the exploratory study also revealed significantly more Gaviscon patients (75%) achieved ≥3 days reduction in “bad” days vs placebo patients (36%), P=.005. In the confirmatory study, symptomatic improvement was observed with add‐on Gaviscon (51%) but there was no significant difference in response vs placebo (48%) (OR (95% CI) 1.15 (0.69‐1.91), P=.5939).

Conclusions

Adding Gaviscon to PPI reduced breakthrough GERD symptoms but a nearly equal response was observed for placebo. Response to intervention may vary according to whether symptoms are functional in origin.
Significant positive association of endotoxemia with histological severity in 237 patients with non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Pang J. , Xu W. , Zhang X. , Wong G. L.‐H. , Chan A. W.‐H. , Chan H.‐Y. , Tse C.‐H. , Shu S. S.‐T. , Choi P. C.‐L. , Chan H. L.‐Y. , Yu J. , Wong V. W.‐S.
Published: May 2017

Background

Patients with nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) have gut dysbiosis and intestinal bacterial overgrowth.

Aim

To test the hypothesis that endotoxemia is associated with the histological severity of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and determine factors associated with endotoxemia.

Methods

The endotoxemia markers lipopolysaccharide‐binding protein (LBP) and endotoxin levels were measured in 237 NAFLD patients 1 day before liver biopsy. Biomarkers of liver injury and transient elastography were performed as additional markers of disease severity.

Results

A total of 114/237 (48%) patients had NASH and 80/237 (34%) had F2‐4 fibrosis. LBP was correlated with lobular inflammation (P=.001), while both LBP (P=.0004) and endotoxin levels (P=0.008) were correlated with fibrosis. LBP was also correlated with cytokeratin‐18 fragments (P=.002) and aspartate aminotransferase‐to‐alanine aminotransferase ratio (P=.006), and both LBP (P=.019) and endotoxin (P=.006) were correlated with liver stiffness measurement by transient elastography. LBP was increased in patients with NASH (15.3±4.6 vs 13.8±3.3 μg/mL; P=.005) and F2‐4 fibrosis (15.4±4.4 vs 14.0±3.7 μg/mL; P=.008). Interestingly, patients harbouring the TM6SF2 rs58542926 T allele that predispose to NAFLD/NASH had higher LBP level. By multivariate analysis, gender, higher body mass index and glycated haemoglobin, and TM6SF2 variants were independent factors associated with increased LBP level.

Conclusions

Endotoxemia is positively associated with NASH and significant fibrosis. The association between TM6SF2 and endotoxemia warrants further investigations. The findings may shed light on the pathogenesis of NASH and inform a novel treatment target.
Labor after cesarean delivery managed without induction or augmentation of labor
Authors: Nakamura Kohei , Hayashi Shusaku , Sasahara Jun , Okamoto Yoko , Ishii Keisuke , Mitsuda Nobuaki
Published: May 2017

Background

This study aimed to describe the perinatal outcomes of women opting for vaginal birth after cesarean delivery (VBAC) managed without induction or augmentation of labor.

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study of candidates for VBAC at a tertiary center in Japan from April 2003 to March 2012. Women with singleton gestations and one prior low‐transverse cesarean delivery who intended VBAC at 36 weeks of gestation were identified as candidates for VBAC and included in the study. Participants were managed without induction or augmentation of labor. Maternal characteristics and perinatal outcomes were obtained from medical records. Factors associated with successful VBAC were analyzed with a multivariable logistic regression model.

Results

Of 333 candidates for VBAC, 242 (72.7%) had vaginal birth, 49 (14.7%) had repeat cesarean delivery with spontaneous labor, and 42 (12.6%) had repeat cesarean delivery without spontaneous labor. The rate of uterine rupture was 0.3% (1/333). Prior vaginal delivery and nonrecurring indications for prior cesarean delivery were associated with successful VBAC.

Conclusions

Management of candidates for VBAC without induction or augmentation of labor resulted in a high VBAC rate and favorable perinatal outcomes. Such restrictive VBAC policies may be an acceptable alternative to standard management or abandonment of VBAC.
Drug metabolism and antibiotic resistance in micro‐organisms
Authors: Sim Edith , Ryan Ali
Published: May 2017

Linked Articles

This article is part of a themed section on Drug Metabolism and Antibiotic Resistance in Micro‐organisms. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v174.14/issuetoc
Developmental temperatures and phenotypic plasticity in reptiles: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Noble Daniel W. A. , Stenhouse Vaughn , Schwanz Lisa E.
Published: May 2017

Early environments can profoundly influence an organism in ways that persist over its life. In reptiles, early thermal environments (nest temperatures) can impact offspring phenotype and survival in important ways, yet we still lack an understanding of whether general trends exist and the magnitude of impact. Understanding these patterns is important in predicting how climate change will affect reptile populations and the role of phenotypic plasticity in buffering populations. We compiled data from 175 reptile studies to examine, and quantify, the effect of incubation temperature on phenotype and survival. Using meta‐analytic approaches (standardized mean difference between incubation treatments, Hedges' g), we show that across all trait types examined there is, on average, a moderate to large magnitude of effect of incubation temperatures (absolute effect: |g| = 0.75). Unsurprisingly, this influence was extremely large for incubation duration, as predicted, with warmer temperatures decreasing incubation time overall (g = −8.42). Other trait types, including behaviour, physiology, morphology, performance, and survival experienced reduced, but still mostly moderate to large effects, with particularly strong effects on survival. Moreover, the impact of incubation temperature persisted at least one‐year post‐hatching, suggesting that these effects have the potential to impact fitness in the long term. The magnitude of effect increased as the change in temperature increased (e.g. 6°C versus 2°C) in almost all cases, and tended to decrease when temperatures of the treatments fluctuated around a mean temperature compared to when they were constant. The effect also depended on the mid‐temperature of the comparison, but not in consistent ways, with some traits experiencing the greatest effects at extreme temperatures, while others did not. The highly heterogeneous nature of the effects we observe, along with a large amount of unexplained variability, indicates that the shape of reaction norms between phenotype and temperature, along with ecological and/or experimental factors, are important when considering general patterns. Our analyses provide new insights into the effects of incubation environments on reptile phenotype and survival and allow general, albeit coarse, predictions for taxa experiencing warming nest temperatures under climatic change.
Phylogenetic perspectives on reef fish functional traits
Authors: Floeter Sergio R. , Bender Mariana G. , Siqueira Alexandre C. , Cowman Peter F.
Published: May 2017

ABSTRACT

Functional traits have been fundamental to the evolution and diversification of entire fish lineages on coral reefs. Yet their relationship with the processes promoting speciation, extinction and the filtering of local species pools remains unclear. We review the current literature exploring the evolution of diet, body size, water column use and geographic range size in reef‐associated fishes. Using published and new data, we mapped functional traits on to published phylogenetic trees to uncover evolutionary patterns that have led to the current functional diversity of fishes on coral reefs. When examining reconstructed patterns for diet and feeding mode, we found examples of independent transitions to planktivory across different reef fish families. Such transitions and associated morphological alterations may represent cases in which ecological opportunity for the exploitation of different resources drives speciation and adaptation. In terms of body size, reconstructions showed that both large and small sizes appear multiple times within clades of mid‐sized fishes and that extreme body sizes have arisen mostly in the last 10 million years (Myr). The reconstruction of range size revealed many cases of disparate range sizes among sister species. Such range size disparity highlights potential vicariant processes through isolation in peripheral locations. When accounting for peripheral speciation processes in sister pairs, we found a significant relationship between labrid range size and lineage age. The diversity and evolution of traits within lineages is influenced by trait–environment interactions as well as by species and trait–trait interactions, where the presence of a given trait may trigger the development of related traits or behaviours. Our effort to assess the evolution of functional diversity across reef fish clades adds to the burgeoning research focusing on the evolutionary and ecological roles of functional traits. We argue that the combination of a phylogenetic and a functional approach will improve the understanding of the mechanisms of species assembly in extraordinarily rich coral reef communities.
Renewal of peritonsillar abscess: Impact of the bacterial species of the infection and clinical features of the patient—A prospective comparative aetiological study
Authors: Wikstén J. , Kaltiainen E. , Pitkäranta A. , Blomgren K.
Published: May 2017

Objectives

To compare the bacterial species and patient clinical features in peritonsillar abscesses between patients who had renewal (renewal group) and those who did not (recovery group).

Design

Prospective comparative aetiological study.

Setting

Tertiary referral centre.

Participants

A total of 180 adult peritonsillar abscess patients were prospectively enrolled and treated as outpatients with incision and drainage and oral antibiotics. Bacteria from the pus were evaluated with a microarray assay. All contact with the healthcare system and renewal of the symptoms were recorded.

Main outcome measures

Different bacterial species and patient clinical features between the renewal and recovery groups.

Results

Of the 180 enrolled patients, 18 experienced a renewal of symptoms. Bacteria from the Streptococcus anginosus group were detected in the patient samples of the renewal group more often than in those of the recovery group (P=.002). No isolated Streptococcus pyogenes samples were reported in the renewal group, while in the recovery group it was reported on 24% of the patients (P=.014). In the renewal group, patients over age 40 experienced symptom renewal faster than the younger patients (P=.013) and were more likely to be male (P=.036).

Conclusions

Bacteria in the Streptococcus anginosus group appear to predict renewal of PTA symptoms, while Streptococcus pyogenes was not found in our patients with symptom renewal. Certain subgroups of patients should be followed more closely.
Patient injuries in operative rhinology during a ten‐year period: Review of national patient insurance charts
Authors: Blomgren K. , Aaltonen L.‐M. , Lehtonen L. , Helmiö P.
Published: May 2017

Objectives

To assess factors contributing to patient injuries in operative rhinology.

Design

Data of the accepted patient injury claims involving operative rhinology, between the years 2001 and 2011, were obtained from the Finnish Patient Insurance Centre registry. Two senior otolaryngologists analysed and evaluated the injury mechanisms.

Main outcome measures

Analysis and classification of factors contributing to patient injuries.

Results

During the ten‐year study period, there were 67 patient injuries in operative rhinology, comprising 36% of all patient injuries in otorhinolaryngologic surgery. The majority (78%) of patients were treated in university or central hospitals and almost all (90%) by fully trained otolaryngology specialists. The factors contributing to the injuries were errors in surgical technique, like lesions to the orbit, skull base and meninges, and adjacent nerves, as well as mistakes with removable packings left in situ. Nearly half of the patients had undergone endoscopic sinus surgery. One patient died because of bleeding from the intracranial artery. Fourteen patients (21%) needed a re‐operation due to the injury.

Conclusions

Patient injuries in rhinology were caused by typical complications of common operations performed by otorhinolaryngology specialists. The increased volume of endoscopic sinus surgery was evident also in patient injuries.
Current studies of immunotherapy in head and neck cancer
Authors: Dogan V. , Rieckmann T. , Münscher A. , Busch C.‐J.
Published: May 2017

Background

Recently, enormous progress in cancer therapy has been achieved by the use of immune checkpoint inhibitors. Activating the body's own immune system has added a novel and powerful therapeutic option for the treatment of melanoma and lung cancer. Furthermore, the potential use of immunotherapy is being extensively explored also in other malignancies.

Objective of review

This review summarises current clinical studies using immune checkpoint modulators for the treatment of head and neck cancer (HNSCC).

Type of review

Systematic review.

Search strategy

A PubMed search from 2010 onwards was performed for the use of immune checkpoint inhibitors in clinical trials of HNSCC. An equivalent search was performed at clinicaltrials.gov. Additionally, the abstracts from the annual meetings of the ASCO, ESMO and AACR were screened.

Results

A total of 45 relevant studies using immune checkpoint inhibitors in HNSCC were identified. In the majority of these studies, antagonistic antibodies targeting the immune checkpoint receptors PD‐1 are used either solely or combined, mostly with other immunomodulatory antibodies, such as inhibitors of CTLA‐4. Most studies are still recruiting patients (26/45). In the primary setting, we identified 16 studies using checkpoint inhibition as neoadjuvant/adjuvant modality for treatment with curative intent. The response rate upon treatment with PD‐1 antagonists in relation to the PD‐L1 status is being investigated in 12 trials. Novel immune checkpoint modulators combined with the inhibition of the PD‐1/PD‐L1 axis or CTLA‐4 have been set up in six trials. So far, only four studies that use immune checkpoint inhibition in HNSCC have presented results and all of these explored the inhibition of the PD‐1/PD‐L1 axis. The studies demonstrated overall response rates (ORR) in the range of 20%. These preliminary data suggest that a PD‐L1 expression ≥1% is associated with a higher response rate compared to a PD‐L1 expression ≤1%. The anti‐PD‐1‐antibody pembrolizumab extended the duration of response in recurrent and/or metastatic (R/M) HNSCC (by approximately 53 weeks) in a phase Ib study. Therefore, pembrolizumab was granted accelerated approval for the treatment of platinum refractory R/M HNSCC by the FDA.

Conclusion

Numerous clinical trials are addressing the suitability and efficacy of immune checkpoint modulators in HNSCC with the predominant targets being the established immune checkpoint receptors PD‐1/PD‐L1 and CTLA‐4. Recently, presented results have shown a survival benefit, a favourable safety profile and an extended duration of response in favour of using immune checkpoint modulation in R/M HNSCC.
The challenges of research in children with visual impairment
Authors: Matsuba Carey A
Published: May 2017

This commentary is on the original article by Dale et al. on pages 725–731 of this issue.
CAN SCHOOL SPORTS REDUCE RACIAL GAPS IN TRUANCY AND ACHIEVEMENT?
Authors: Cuffe Harold E. , Waddell Glen R. , Bignell Wesley
Published: May 2017

While existing research supports that participation in high‐school athletics is associated with better education and labor‐market outcomes, the mechanisms through which these benefits accrue are not well established. Using individual microdata collected daily, and team‐specific schedules, we retrieve estimates of the causal effect of high‐school athletic participation on absenteeism, suggesting that participation decreases absences, driven primarily by reductions in unexcused absences in boys. There are also strong game‐day effects in truancy, in both boys and girls, with truancy declines on game days more than offset by subsequent absenteeism. Important heterogeneity by race, gender, and family structure may serve to substantially reduce racial gaps in truancy and achievement. (JEL I21, L83)
CITATIONS OR JOURNAL QUALITY: WHICH IS REWARDED MORE IN THE ACADEMIC LABOR MARKET?
Authors: Gibson John , Anderson David L. , Tressler John
Published: May 2017

Research quality can be evaluated from citations or from the prestige of journals publishing the research. We relate salary of tenured University of California (UC) economists to their lifetime publications of 5,500 articles and to the 140,000 citations to these articles. Citations hardly affect salary, especially in top‐ranked UC departments where impacts of citations are less than one‐tenth those of journals. In lower ranked departments, and when journal quality is less comprehensively measured, effects of citations on salary increase. If journal quality is just measured by counting articles in journal tiers, apparent effects of citations are overstated. (JEL A14, J44)