bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Unusual Pelvic Mass in a Pediatric Patient: A Case Report and Review of the Pathology
Authors: Bauman Brent D. , Moertel Christopher L. , Zheng Eugene , Louiselle Amanda , Berdan Elizabeth , Berger David , Segura Bradley
Published: January 2017

Introduction:

Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is the most commonly inherited autosomal dominant disorder in humans. NF1 patients have increased risk for gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs). A Meckel’s diverticulum (MD) represents a persistent embryonic omphalomesenteric duct characterized as a true diverticulum located near the ileocecal valve. We report a unique clinical case whereby a patient with NF1 developed a GIST within a MD.

Case:

An adolescent male with NF1 presented with persistent lower abdominal pain. Clinical evaluation demonstrated a large pelvic mass. In the operating room, the mass was noted to emerge from a MD. Final pathology demonstrated a GIST with negative margins and CD117 positivity.

Discussion:

Patients with NF1 are at increased risk for mesenchymal tumors including malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors. GISTs are the most important and frequent non-neurological malignancy in NF1 and develop in ∼7% of NF1 patients. GISTs tend to be multifocal in NF1; however, they rarely occur within a Meckel’s diverticula.

Conclusions:

Our case represents a rare case of a patient with NF1 who developed a symptomatic GIST within a MD. We recommend utilizing laparoscopy to determine resectability and clarify the diagnosis in this unique patient population who are at risk for multiple neoplasms.
Nurse Managers Speak Out About Disruptive Nurse-to-Nurse Relationships
Authors: Moore Linda Weaver , Sublett Cynthia , Leahy Cathy
Published: January 2017

OBJECTIVE:

The purpose of this study is to explore nurse managers’ (NMs’) perceptions regarding disruptive nurse-to-nurse relationships.

BACKGROUND:

Nurse managers play a pivotal role in creating and sustaining healthy practice environments. They must understand how to recognize and confront disruptive nurse relationships that can threaten the health of their units.

METHODS:

A qualitative study design using researcher-participant interviews of 13 NMs from 5 institutions provided data regarding NMs’ views on nurse relationships.

RESULTS:

Nurse managers reported how they became aware of disruptive nurse relationships, their strategies for dealing with those relationships, and the impact that confronting disruptive relationships had on them personally.

CONCLUSION:

Findings can be helpful to NMs who are faced with addressing disruptive nurse-to-nurse relationships as they endeavor to create and sustain healthy work environments.
Genomic Competencies for Nursing Practice
Authors: Boyd Andrea M. , Alt-White Anna C. , Anderson Gwen , Schaa Kendra L. , Kasper Christine E.
Published: January 2017

Nurses must have appropriate knowledge and skills to provide safe and effective nursing care in recognition of evolving science. Knowledge of genomics is required to ensure appropriate referral and education of patients who would benefit from genetic services. This article describes the process the Veterans Healthcare Administration's (VHA's) Office of Nursing Services used to determine the nursing genomic competencies appropriate for VHA nurses and identify available resources for educating nurses on these nursing competencies and a strategic plan for long-term implementation.
Histologic Findings of Severe/Therapy-Resistant Asthma From Video-assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery Biopsies
Authors: Trejo Bittar Humberto E. , Doberer Daniel , Mehrad Mitra , Strollo Diane C. , Leader Joseph K. , Wenzel Sally , Yousem Samuel A.
Published: January 2017

The histologic changes occurring in severe/therapy-resistant asthma (SA) as defined by the European Respiratory Society/American Thoracic Society guidelines, particularly at the level of the distal airways are unknown. This study describes the clinical, radiologic, and histologic characteristics of 29 SA patients who underwent video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery lung biopsy. Pathologic observations were correlated with clinical features, especially the presence of autoimmune disease (AID) (15/29, 51.7%). Ten biopsies (10/29, 34.5%) showed only small airway manifestations of asthma, whereas in 19 (65.5%) asthmatic granulomatosis, manifested by asthmatic bronchiolitis supplemented by an alveolar septal mononuclear infiltrates with non-necrotizing granulomas, was present. SA patients without asthmatic granulomatosis showed more striking small airway injury, subbasement membrane thickening, and neutrophilic infiltrates. Cases with concurrent AID had a tendency to more parenchymal eosinophilic inflammation, more bronchiolocentric granulomas, and a suggestion of increased responsivity to nonsteroidal immunosuppressive therapy. Histologic examination of video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery lung biopsies in SA demonstrates diverse pathologies including cases associated with granulomatous inflammation in addition to eosinophilic infiltrates. This spectrum of histologies may link to a high incidence of AID.
Using Public Health Data for Soil Pb Hazard Management in Ohio
Authors: Obrycki John F. , Serafini Tyler , Hood Darryl B. , Alexander Chris , Blais Pam , Basta Nicholas T.
Published: January 2017

Objectives:

To evaluate how frequently elevated soil lead (Pb) hazards (≥400 ppm Pb) were identified in existing blood Pb site investigations in Ohio.

Design:

This study evaluated 3050 site investigations from the Ohio Department of Health for children with blood Pb levels at or above 10 μg dL−1 that contained bare soil Pb data.

Setting:

Data were collected from existing databases maintained by the Ohio Department of Health.

Participants:

All data were de-identified prior to analysis. The data used included blood Pb level test results for children (18 years or younger) in Ohio, with most data coming from children younger than 6 years.

Main Outcome Measures:

The main outcome measures were blood Pb levels and identified Pb concentrations in environmental media, including soil, paint, and dust.

Methods:

Data were organized and summarized according to county. Summary statistics were generated on the basis of type of environmental media and county.

Results:

Soil samples were collected in approximately 5% of all blood Pb cases in Ohio between 1999 and 2015. Median bare soil Pb was 1030 mg Pb kg−1 (range, 0-345 021 mg Pb kg−1 soil). Fifty-six of Ohio's 88 counties had at least 1 soil sample above 10 000 ppm (mg Pb kg−1). Multiple Pb hazards were identified, including bare soil (74% frequency), deteriorated exterior Pb paint (74%), deteriorated interior Pb paint (72%), and settled Pb dust (72%). Bare soil collected from identified dripline areas contained 2638 ppm Pb above soils collected from bare soil play areas (P = .02). Ninety assessments (3%) contained a bare soil hazard, with no other identified hazards. No trend was found comparing county mean or median Pb with county population. Previously identified high-risk counties for elevated blood Pb levels did not have an elevated prevalence of bare soil Pb hazards compared with other counties (P = .64).

Conclusions:

Site investigators should anticipate finding and managing elevated bare soil Pb in locations throughout Ohio. When communicating with the public about bare soil Pb hazards, practitioners and policy makers should emphasize the importance of addressing all potential Pb exposure sources. Findings demonstrate the importance of the individual home environment for exposure, as previously identified high-risk counties for elevated blood Pb levels were not different from other counties.
Public Health Agency Accreditation Among Rural Local Health Departments: Influencers and Barriers
Authors: Beatty Kate E. , Erwin Paul Campbell , Brownson Ross C. , Meit Michael , Fey James
Published: January 2017

Objective:

Health department accreditation is a crucial strategy for strengthening public health infrastructure. The purpose of this study was to investigate local health department (LHD) characteristics that are associated with accreditation-seeking behavior. This study sought to ascertain the effects of rurality on the likelihood of seeking accreditation through the Public Health Accreditation Board (PHAB).

Design:

Cross-sectional study using secondary data from the 2013 National Association of County & City Health Officials (NACCHO) National Profile of Local Health Departments Study (Profile Study).

Setting:

United States.

Participants:

LHDs (n = 490) that responded to the 2013 NACCHO Profile Survey.

Main Outcome Measures:

LHDs decision to seek PHAB accreditation.

Results:

Significantly more accreditation-seeking LHDs were located in urban areas (87.0%) than in micropolition (8.9%) or rural areas (4.1%) (P < .001). LHDs residing in urban communities were 16.6 times (95% confidence interval [CI], 5.3-52.3) and micropolitan LHDs were 3.4 times (95% CI, 1.1-11.3) more likely to seek PHAB accreditation than rural LHDs (RLHDs). LHDs that had completed an agency-wide strategic plan were 8.5 times (95% CI, 4.0-17.9), LHDs with a local board of health were 3.3 times (95% CI, 1.5-7.0), and LHDs governed by their state health department were 12.9 times (95% CI, 3.3-50.0) more likely to seek accreditation. The most commonly cited barrier was time and effort required for accreditation application exceeded benefits (73.5%).

Conclusion:

The strongest predictor for seeking PHAB accreditation was serving an urban jurisdiction. Micropolitan LHDs were more likely to seek accreditation than smaller RLHDs, which are typically understaffed and underfunded. Major barriers identified by the RLHDs included fees being too high and the time and effort needed for accreditation exceeded their perceived benefits. RLHDs will need additional financial and technical support to achieve accreditation. Even with additional funds, clear messaging of the benefits of accreditation tailored to RLHDs will be needed.
Two-Dimensional and Three-Dimensional Transperineal Ultrasound Findings in Women With High-Pressure Voiding After Midurethral Sling Placement
Authors: Larson Kindra , Scott Lauren , Cunningham Tina D. , Zhao Yili , Abuhamad Alfred , Takacs Peter
Published: January 2017

Objectives

The aim of this study was to evaluate dynamic two-dimensional (2D) and 3D transperineal pelvic ultrasound findings with urodynamic studies in women with lower urinary tract symptoms after midurethral sling placement.

Methods

On 2D images, the sling position, and on 3D imaging the sling angle, urethral diameter, urethral height, and urethral cross sectional area were recorded with and without Valsalva. Patients were categorized into 3 groups based on 2D imaging: group 1—at rest, the sling lies parallel to the urethral lumen, and during Valsalva, the sling becomes C shaped; group 2—both at rest and during Valsalva, the sling runs parallel to the urethral lumen; group 3—at rest, the sling is C shaped, and during Valsalva, this curved shape is maintained. For analytical purposes, G3 was compared with G1+2. Multiple logistic regressions were used to evaluate the association between transperineal pelvic ultrasound and urodynamic study.

Results

Univariate analyses to examine the relationships between high-pressure voiding, and each variable revealed that Valsalva sling angle, G3 versus G1+2, and sling position as percentage of the urethral length yielded significant findings (odds ratio, 95% confidence interval, P value for each, respectively: 1.037, 1.001–1.074, 0.04; 11.67, 2.116–64.31, 0.004; and 0.952, 0.911–0.994, 0.02). When including G3 versus G1+2, Valsalva sling angle, and percentage into the regression model, we concluded that there was only statistically significant association between groups and high-pressure voiding (odds ratio, 6.85; 95% confidence interval, 1.12–42.04; P = 0.03).

Conclusions

Transperineal ultrasound can help to predict women with high-pressure voiding after midurethral sling and thus may aid in the diagnosis of partial bladder outlet obstruction.
Biowheel: interactive visualization and exploration of biomedical data
Authors: Hu Chenyue W. , Bisberg Alex J. , Qutub Amina A.
Published: January 2017

We introduce Biowheel (https://biowheel.dibsvis.com/), a web-based award-winning data visualization tool, for exploring high-dimensional and heterogeneous biomedical data. Through interactive sorting and filtering of data, Biowheel enables researchers to quickly detect data outliers, evaluate data consistency, and discover mixed trends. Its interactive data presentation, visually-engaging design, and friendly user interface opens the door to easier, faster and better high-dimensional data interpretation for biomedical professionals with and without programming training.
An Adaptive Geometric Search Algorithm for Macromolecular Scaffold Selection
Authors: Jiang Tian , Renfrew P. Douglas , Drew Kevin , Youngs Noah , Butterfoss Glenn , Shasha Dennis , Bonneau Richard
Published: January 2017

A wide variety of protein and peptidomimetic design tasks require matching functional three-dimensional motifs to potential oligomeric scaffolds. Enzyme design, for example, aims to graft active-site patterns typically consisting of 3 to 15 residues onto new protein surfaces. Identifying suitable proteins capable of scaffolding such active-site engraftment requires costly searches to identify protein folds that can provide the correct positioning of side chains to host the desired active site. Other examples of biodesign tasks that require simpler fast exact geometric searches of potential side chain positioning include mimicking binding hotspots, design of metal binding clusters and the design of modular hydrogen binding networks for specificity. In these applications the speed and scaling of geometric search limits downstream design to small patterns. Here we present an adaptive algorithm to searching for side chain take-off angles compatible with an arbitrarily specified functional pattern that enjoys substantive performance improvements over previous methods. We demonstrate this method in both genetically encoded (protein) and synthetic (peptidomimetic) design scenarios. Examples of using this method with the Rosetta framework for protein design are provided but our implementation is compatible with multiple protein design frameworks and is freely available as a set of python scripts (https://github.com/JiangTian/adaptive-geometric-search-for-protein-design).
A conceptual foundation for expectations of corporate responsibility
Authors: Olkkonen Laura
Published: January 2017

Purpose

Ability to identify and meet stakeholder expectations is seen as imperative for succeeding in corporate responsibility (CR). However, the existing literature of CR communication treats expectations predominantly as positive constructions. The purpose of this paper is to address this positivity bias and offer insights for a more profound conceptual and empirical understanding of stakeholder expectations.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper presents findings from a targeted literature search and empirical illustrations from a thematic analysis of interview data with a focus on the media sector.

Findings

The conceptual understanding of expectations is advanced by exploring positive (optimistic and hopeful) and negative (cynical and pessimistic) expectations. The empirical examples portray expectation analysis and how it becomes more complex when expectations turn negative.

Research limitations/implications

The data are limited to one sector but implications are discussed with a wider lens to aid future studies in addressing expectations of CR with less positivity bias and, instead, with more conceptual and empirical precision.

Practical implications

The identification of different expectation types can help practitioners to map and analyze stakeholder expectations of CR, assess interlinking between positive and negative issues, and address stakeholder criticism in a meaningful way.

Social implications

A more precise understanding of stakeholder expectations has the potential to make organizations more sensitive to their societal context, especially concerning CR as social connectedness.

Originality/value

The paper addresses a gap in current literature concerning the positivity bias of expectations and offers conceptual and empirical tools for future research and practice.
Strategic internal communication of corporate heritage identity in a hypermodal context
Authors: Maier Carmen Daniela , Andersen Mona Agerholm
Published: January 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore how corporate heritage identity (CHI) implementation strategies are communicated by Grundfos, a 70-year-old global company from Denmark, in their internal history references.

Design/methodology/approach

Drawing on an interdisciplinary methodological framework related to heritage identity communication, hypertextuality, and multi-modality, it proposes a multi-leveled analysis model through which communicative strategies are explored at the level of four semiotic modes (written text, speech, still image, and moving image) and at the level of their hypermodal interplay.

Findings

This exploratory case study explains how CHI implementation strategies are communicated in accordance with the potential and constraints of semiotic modes and hyperlinking affordances. The analytical work suggests that the management employs complex CHI implementation strategies in order to strengthen organizational identity and to influence employees’ identification with the company across past, present, and future.

Research limitations/implications

By examining the semiotic modes’ interconnectivity and functional differentiation in a hypermodal context, this paper expands existing research by extending the multi-modal focus to a hypertextual one.

Originality/value

By exploring CHI implementation strategies from a hypermodal perspective and by providing a replicable model of hypermodal analysis, this paper fills a gap in the heritage identity research. Furthermore, it can also be of value to practitioners who intend to design company webpages that strategically communicate heritage identity implementation strategies in order to engage the employees in the company’s heritage.
Thick Film Superconductors Based on Bi2O3 Modified Y‐Ba‐Cu‐O and Bi‐Sr‐Ca‐Cu‐O Systems
Authors: Hrovat M. , Bernik S. , Kolar D. , Jarkovi? I.
Published: January 2017

A superconducting material with a composition Y1−xBa2Cu3O7−3/2x − x/2 Bi2O3 (x = 0·1 and 0·2) was synthesised. The influence of Bi2O3 additions on sintering was studied. Preliminary investigations of the Bi‐Sr‐Ca‐Cu‐O system were also made. Thick film pastes, prepared from Y1−xBixBa2Cu3O7 compositions, from the compound YBa2Cu3O7 with 10 w/o addition of Bi2CuO4 and from two compositions in the Bi‐Sr‐Ca‐Cu‐0 system, were fired on Al2O3 and ZrO2 substrates. All thick film materials based on YBa2Cu3O7 compound were superconducting at temperatures above 77 K when fired on ZrO2 substrates, while only a material with the starting composition Y0·8Ba2Cu3O6.7 − 0·1 Bi2O3 reached zero resistivity above 77 K on Al2O3 substrates. Tc (onset) of samples based on the YBa2Cu3O7 compound was around 95 K, and of samples from the Bi‐Sr‐Ca‐Cu‐O system between 95 and 100 K.
A multi-scale extended grey target decision method that considers the value distribution information of grey numbers
Authors: Mao Wenxin , Luo Dang , Sun Huifang
Published: January 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to propose a multi-scale extended grey target decision method for dealing with multi-attribute decision-making problems with interval grey numbers whose value distribution information is asymmetrical.

Design/methodology/approach

First, the whitenization weight function (WWF) was adopted to show the value distribution information of interval grey numbers. The definitions of kernel, degree of greyness, relative kernel and whitenization standard deviation of interval grey numbers were given based on the WWF. Then, the relative kernel grey target and whitenization standard deviation grey target were constructed to take full advantage of the owned decision information. Finally, the relative bull’s-eye coefficient was proposed to rank the preference order of all alternatives.

Findings

The relative bull’s-eye coefficient reflects the influence of the decision information on decision results with respect to the mean level and value distribution of attribute values. Thus, the decision-maker could set the return and risk adjustment coefficient according to their preferences and select the optimal alternative with a high expected return and low risk.

Originality/value

The paper considers the valve distribution information of interval grey numbers, and a novel definition for kernels, degrees of greyness, relative kernels and whitenization standard deviations, which are given based on the WWF. The paper not only considers the influence of mean levels of decision information over decision results, but also takes the value distribution information into account.
Predicting product demand from small-sized data: grey models
Authors: Özdemir Asli , Özdagoglu Güzin
Published: January 2017

Purpose

Prediction problems raised in uncertain environments require different solution approaches such as grey prediction models, which consider uncertainty in information and also enable the use of small data sets. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the comparative performances of grey prediction models (GM) and Markov chain integrated grey models in a demand prediction problem.

Design/methodology/approach

The modeling process of grey models is initially described, and then an integrated model called the Grey-Markov model is presented for the convenience of applications. The analyses are conducted on a monthly demand prediction problem to demonstrate the modeling accuracies of the GM (1,1), GM (2,1), GM (1,1)-Markov, and GM (2,1)-Markov models.

Findings

Numerical results reveal that the Grey-Markov model based on GM (2,1) achieves better prediction performance than the other models.

Practical implications

It is thought that the methodology and the findings of the study will be a significant reference for both academics and executives who struggle with similar demand prediction problems in their fields of interest.

Originality/value

The novelty of this study comes from the fact that the GM (2,1)-Markov model has been first used for demand prediction. Furthermore, the GM (2,1)-Markov model represents a relatively new approach, and this is the second paper that addresses the GM (2,1)-Markov model in any area.
Education expenditures and income distribution: an empirical analysis on European countries
Authors: Celikay Ferdi , Sengur Mehmet
Published: January 2017

Purpose

This study aims to examine the relationship between public sector education expenditure and the GINI coefficient as a measure of injustice in income distribution.

Design/methodology/approach

Data from 31 European countries gathered from 2004 to 2011 were analyzed using panel error correction models.

Findings

According to the study’s findings, a relationship between education expenditures and the GINI coefficient exists. There is a 1 per cent increase for the European countries examined in this study in their rate of education expenditure in gross domestic product (GDP), which raises the GINI coefficient by 0.20 per cent in the short-term and decreases it by 0.22 per cent in the long-term, as expected. Thus, an increase in the proportion of education expenditures in GDP affects the GINI coefficient in a statistically significant, negative way over the long-term.

Originality/value

This study fills a gap in the literature by determining whether the interaction between education expenditure and GINI coefficient changes in the short- and long-term. The results show that education expenditure generates positive results particularly by lowering income inequality in the long-term. This interaction can be more clearly observed in developing countries. So this conclusion adds an important empirical evidence to the literature and it may contribute in forming policies toward reducing income inequality.
Determinants of Nordic entrepreneurship
Authors: Dvouletý Ondřej
Published: January 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyse the determinants of entrepreneurial activity in the Nordic countries over the period of years 2004-2013 to provide supportive material for the Nordic entrepreneurial policy makers with specific focus on the role of necessity/opportunity-driven entrepreneurship, administrative barriers and the research and development (R&D) sector.

Design/methodology/approach

Quantitative study employed panel regression analysis with fixed effects estimator to test the impact of determinants on entrepreneurial activity operationalized as a rate of registered business activity and as an established business ownership rate.

Findings

The results obtained for the both dependent variables did not substantially differ from each other or the supported hypothesis stating a positive relationship between unemployment rate, GDP per capita and entrepreneurial activity. Also a negative impact of administrative barriers was found. However, no statistically significant positive impact of the R&D sector was observed.

Practical implications

Nordic entrepreneurial policy makers should put more effort into the reduction of administrative barriers towards founding enterprises and support entrepreneurship during the times of higher unemployment rates. Further evaluation of Nordic R&D policies is strongly needed, since no positive impacts towards entrepreneurship were found.

Originality/value

The empirical analysis was conducted based on the research gap in the studies related to the Nordic entrepreneurial policies and perceived need for the policy recommendations that are provided.
Leadership style and service orientation: the catalytic role of employee engagement
Authors: Popli Sapna , Rizvi Irfan A.
Published: January 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the roles of leadership style and employee engagement (EE) as drivers of service orientation (SO). The competing models approach used in this study examines three models of influence on SO. The first model evaluates the influence of leadership on SO, the second focuses on the influence of EE on SO and the third explores the influence of leadership on SO through EE. The study provides evidence to support that the relationship between leadership styles and SO is impacted by EE. The results suggest that organizations need to develop systems and processes that focus on the employee and EE for definitive service outcomes. At a theoretical level, the paper provides a direction for further exploration of an integrated theory of leadership and engagement to drive SO in organizations.

Design/methodology/approach

This empirical study uses a cross-sectional descriptive design. Hierarchical regression and mediation analysis were applied to process the data that were collected from more than 400 front-line employees from five service sector organizations in the Delhi-National Capital Region (Delhi-NCR) of India using validated instruments.

Findings

The results from this study reveal both direct and indirect relationships among the variables. EE emerged as a critical variable that influences SO of employees. EE partially mediates the transformational leadership style-SO relationship and also the passive-avoidant-SO relationship and it fully mediates the transactional leadership-SO relationship. While all relationships of leadership-engagement, leadership-SO and engagement-SO are significant, the mediating effects accentuate the importance of EE in organizations.

Practical implications

Leadership style on its own has a direct bearing on EE and SO of employees, the three associations are significantly impacted under the mediating influence of EE. With EE emerging as a critical factor, organizations need to ensure engaging behaviors are measured and enhanced throughout the employee-life-cycle including hiring, training, rewarding and managing performance. The results of the study suggest that an integrated approach of developing and inculcating leadership styles that drive EE could be the basis for leadership development programs especially in the service sector organizations.

Originality/value

The originality of the paper is derived from the three variables studied in the context of the sample characteristics (front-line employees, young), industry sector (across service sector) and geographical location (Delhi-NCR-India). Not many empirical studies on these variables are available from the region. The empirical evidence on the influence of EE adds weight to the growing strategic importance of EE in organizations. The research also highlights leadership and EE together influence specific employee attitudes and behavior (SO).
Employing proactive interaction for service failure prevention to improve customer service experiences
Authors: Shin Hyunju , Ellinger Alexander E. , Mothersbaugh David L. , Reynolds Kristy E.
Published: January 2017

Purpose

Services marketing research continues to be largely focused on firms’ reactive interactions for recovering from service failure rather than on proactive customer interactions that may prevent service failure from occurring in the first place. Building on previous studies that assess the efficacy of implementing proactive interaction in service provision contexts, the purpose of this paper is to compare the influences of proactive interaction to prevent service failure and reactive interaction to correct service failure on customer emotion and patronage behavior. Since proactive interaction for service failure prevention is a relatively underexplored and resource-intensive approach, the authors also assess the moderating influences of customer and firm-related characteristics.

Design/methodology/approach

The study hypotheses are tested with survey data from two scenario-based experiments conducted in a retail setting.

Findings

The findings reveal that customers prefer service providers that take the initiative to get to them before they have to initiate contact for themselves. The findings also identify the moderating influences of relationship quality, situational involvement, and contact person status and motive.

Originality/value

The research contributes to the development of service provision theory and practice by expanding on previous studies which report that proactive efforts to prepare customers for the adverse effects of service failure are favorably received. The results also shed light on moderating factors that may further inform the exploitation of resource-intensive proactive interaction for service failure prevention. An agenda is proposed to stimulate future research on proactive customer interaction to prevent service failure in service provision contexts.
Workplace relationship cohesion: an internal customers’ perspective
Authors: Grace Debra , King Ceridwyn , Lo Iacono Joseph
Published: January 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the differential effect of reciprocal and negotiated social exchanges in establishing workplace relationship cohesion, providing a mediating influence between social constructed initiatives (i.e. internal socialization and support) and internal customers’ psychological connectedness.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were gathered via a national online survey of service employees in Australia, representing a diverse range of service industries (e.g. retail (food/non-food), health, financial, administrative support, real estate, household, insurance, education and training, etc.).

Findings

Reciprocal-exchange relationship quality fully mediates the relationship between internal socialization and psychological connectedness; and negotiated-exchange relationship quality partially mediates the relationship between internal support and psychological connectedness of internal customers.

Research limitations/implications

While the findings reported herein support the salience of interpersonal relationship quality enhancing the internal performance of the organization, it is essential to consider how the findings link to externally perceived performance (i.e. from the customer’s perspective). Future research is guided by a framework that the authors propose as a result of the study’s findings to facilitate research in this under-researched area.

Practical implications

The development of sound socially relevant internal marketing strategies is vital to the long-term health and prosperity of the firm and its internal counterparts necessitating a move beyond transactional internal marketing, reflecting “pay for service” organizational thinking.

Originality/value

The examination of internal relationship cohesion and how this effects internal customers’ allegiance to their organizations addresses an important research gap and, thus, provides a significant contribution to both theory and practice.
Synthesis and formability of long alkyl chain of polyester for automotive pre-coated metals
Authors: Lee Yong-Hee , Lee Jung-Hun , Kim Hyun-Joong
Published: January 2017

Purpose

Formability is an important property of automotive pre-coated metals (PCMs). The purpose of this study is to investigate the effect of long alkyl chains of polycarbonatediol to control the formability of polyester coatings.

Design/methodology/approach

Polyester resins with long alkyl chains were synthesized using different contents of polycarbonatediol. These resins were characterised by gel permeation chromatography (GPC), 1H nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR) and fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR). The polyester coatings were characterised according to their viscoelastic behaviour, formability, flexibility and anti-corrosion property.

Findings

The tensile strength of PCM should be larger than 5.6 MPa of the compressive stress at a strain of 23.4 per cent to overcome the harsh condition of deep drawing. To analyse the formability, Fε (forming coefficient based on strain) and FU (forming coefficient based on strain energy) were calculated. When Fε and FU were larger than 1, the polyester coatings exhibited good formability.

Research limitations/implications

Long alkyl chains of polycarbonatediol gave flexibility and good formability to the polyester coatings.

Practical implications

There are two conditions that lead to the good formability of PCM. One is tensile strength and the other is forming coefficients based on strain and strain energy.

Originality/value

Long alkyl chains of polyester were a major factor to improve flexibility and formability. Thus, to have good formability, the tensile strength of PCM should be larger than 5.6 MPa, and the forming coefficients should be larger than 1.
Thermomechanical performance and shape recovery behaviour of shape memory polymer nanocomposite incorporated with hexagonal boron nitride
Authors: Li Zhenghong , Lu Haibao , Yao Yongtao , Lin Long
Published: January 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to develop an effective approach to significantly improve the thermomechanical properties of shape memory polymer (SMP) nanocomposites that show fast thermally responsive shape recovery.

Design/methodology/approach

Hexagonal boron nitrides (h-BNs) were incorporated into polymer matrix in an attempt to improve the thermal conductivity and thermally responsive shape recovery behaviour of SMP, respectively. Thermally actuated shape recovery behaviour was recorded and monitored instrumentally.

Findings

The results show that both glass transition temperature (Tg) and thermomechanical properties of the SMP nanocomposites have been progressively improved with increasing concentration of h-BNs. Analytical results also suggest that the fast-responsive recovery behaviour of the SMP nanocomposite incorporated with h-BNs was due to the increased thermal conductivity.

Research limitations/implications

A simple way for fabricating SMP nanocomposites with enhanced thermally responsive shape recovery based on the incorporation of h-BNs was developed.

Originality/value

The outcome of this study may help fabrication of SMP nanocomposites with fast responsive recovery behaviour.
Total Phosphate Elimination is Negatively Associated With Increased Serum Fibroblast Growth Factor 23 Levels in Patients who Undergo Peritoneal Dialysis
Authors: Yamada Shunsuke , Tsuruya Kazuhiko , Tokumoto Masanori , Yoshida Hisako , Tatsumoto Narihito , Ooboshi Hiroaki , Kitazono Takanari
Published: January 2017

As fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) has been shown to induce cardiovascular disease directly in patients with chronic kidney disease, identification of factors and treatments that can modulate serum FGF23 (sFGF23) level is clinically important. This retrospective longitudinal study investigated factors that modulate sFGF23 in 49 patients who underwent peritoneal dialysis (PD). sFGF23 ratio (sFGF23 at 18 months/baseline sFGF23) was used as an indicator of changes in sFGF23 level. Total phosphate elimination was the sum of both renal phosphate excretion and dialysate phosphate elimination. In multivariate analysis, log sFGF23 ratio was associated negatively with total phosphate elimination and the use of cinacalcet at baseline, and positively with the use of vitamin D receptor activators at baseline, even after adjusting for potential confounding factors. Our study indicates that maintaining phosphate elimination can prevent increased sFGF23, thereby preventing cardiovascular events in patients who undergo PD.
Minimum sample sizes for population genomics: an empirical study from an Amazonian plant species
Authors: Nazareno Alison G. , Bemmels Jordan B. , Dick Christopher W. , Lohmann Lúcia G.
Published: January 2017

High‐throughput DNA sequencing facilitates the analysis of large portions of the genome in nonmodel organisms, ensuring high accuracy of population genetic parameters. However, empirical studies evaluating the appropriate sample size for these kinds of studies are still scarce. In this study, we use double‐digest restriction‐associated DNA sequencing (ddRADseq) to recover thousands of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) for two physically isolated populations of Amphirrhox longifolia (Violaceae), a nonmodel plant species for which no reference genome is available. We used resampling techniques to construct simulated populations with a random subset of individuals and SNPs to determine how many individuals and biallelic markers should be sampled for accurate estimates of intra‐ and interpopulation genetic diversity. We identified 3646 and 4900 polymorphic SNPs for the two populations of A. longifolia, respectively. Our simulations show that, overall, a sample size greater than eight individuals has little impact on estimates of genetic diversity within A. longifolia populations, when 1000 SNPs or higher are used. Our results also show that even at a very small sample size (i.e. two individuals), accurate estimates of FST can be obtained with a large number of SNPs (≥1500). These results highlight the potential of high‐throughput genomic sequencing approaches to address questions related to evolutionary biology in nonmodel organisms. Furthermore, our findings also provide insights into the optimization of sampling strategies in the era of population genomics.
Prognostic factors of hepatocellular carcinoma patients with portal vein tumor thrombosis treated with transcatheter arterial chemoembolization
Authors: Liang Hongyuan , Cui Peng , Guo Qiyong , Mao Xiaonan , Wen Feng , Sun Wei , Shan Ming , Lu Zaiming
Published: January 2017

Aim

To investigate the factors that influence survival of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients with portal vein tumor thrombosis (PVTT) following transarterial chemoembolization (TACE).

Methods

Retrospectively enrolled HCC patients with PVTT (n = 57). Patients received TACE, and the local tumor response was evaluated by modified response evaluation criteria in solid tumor (mRECIST). Overall survival and disease progression were evaluated using Kaplan–Meier survival curves. Prognostic factors were determined by multivariate Cox regression analysis.

Results

Following TACE, the median survival times was 8.3 months in HCC patients with PVTT. The median survival time was 3.1 months for patients with progressive disease following TACE and was 11.3 months for patients with complete response or partial response. The one‐year rate of survival for patients with progressive disease was 5.0% and was lower than in patients with complete response or partial response (20.0%, P < 0.001). Multivariate analysis indicated that the presence of ascites, arteriovenous fistula and TACE response were significant factors for prognosis. The presence of early (<2 weeks) or late (≥2 weeks) PVTT was not a prognostic factor.

Conclusion

Our study indicates that TACE is feasible and potentially efficacious in HCC patients with PVTT, and identifies factors that may predict the prognosis of these patients.
Effects of oral α‐lipoic acid administration on body weight in overweight or obese subjects: a crossover randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial
Authors: Li Nong , Yan Weili , Hu Xiaojuan , Huang Yongdi , Wang Fugang , Zhang Weiguo , Wang Qian , Wang Xiaoling , Sun Kehong
Published: January 2017

Objective

Alpha‐lipoic acid (ALA) has shown beneficial properties on diabetes and obesity. The aim of this study was to examine the effects of oralALAon body weight in subjects with overweight or obese.

Design

Single‐centre, randomized, double‐blind, crossover controlled study.

Participants

A total of 166 subjects of Chinese Han ethnicity with aBMI≥25 kg/m2were screened and 103 subjects fulfilled the study requirements, in terms of informed consent and participation to the study.

Measurements

The subjects were randomized (1:1) to receive eitherALA(1200 mg/day) or placebo treatment in a crossover design for 8 weeks. The primary end‐point was the change in body weight. The secondary end‐points were the changes in waist circumference,BMI, lipid profile, plasma leptin levels and the adverse events that occurred followingALAtreatment.

Results

The changes in the body weight and waist circumference noted in theALAgroup were significantly different compared to the placebo group as demonstrated by mixed model statistical analysis (bothP< 0·05). No real weight reduction was seen in theALAgroup, and no significant differences were noted as regards cholesterol levels, triglyceride levels, high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol levels and adverse events between the two groups. The administration ofALAwas well tolerated, and no serious adverse events were noted.

Conclusions

Oral administration ofALA(1200 mg/day) for 8 weeks induced mild weight loss accompanied by a reduction in waist circumference.
Co‐culture with macrophages enhances the clonogenic and invasion activity of endometriotic stromal cells
Authors: Chan Rachel W. S. , Lee Cheuk‐Lun , Ng Ernest H. Y. , Yeung William S. B.
Published: January 2017

Objective

To study the effect on endometrial and endometriotic cells after co‐culture with macrophages, using clonogenic, invasion and self‐renewal assays.

Materials and methods

Peripheral blood samples, endometrium and endometriotic tissues were collected. Autologous macrophages were co‐cultured with endometrial and endometriotic cells. The number of colony‐forming units (CFU), invasiveness and self‐renewal activity after co‐culture with macrophages were determined. The cytokine level of colony‐stimulating factor‐1 (CSF‐1) from macrophages with and without endometriosis was compared.

Results

Co‐culture with macrophages significantly increased the clonogenic and invasion ability of endometriotic stromal cells in vitro. Colony‐stimulating factor‐1 (CSF‐1) was up‐regulated in endometriotic macrophages conditioned medium when compared to those without the disease.

Conclusions

These data suggest that macrophages may increase the proliferation and invasion activity of stromal clonogenic cells in women with endometriosis.
Targeting nasopharyngeal carcinoma by artesunate through inhibiting Akt/mTOR and inducing oxidative stress
Authors: Li Qin , Ni Wei , Deng Zhifeng , Liu Minghe , She Lazhi , Xie Qiong
Published: January 2017

Drug repurposing has become an alternative therapeutic strategy for cancer treatment given the known pharmacokinetics and toxicity. The inhibitory effects of artesunate have been reported in various cancers. In this work, we investigated the effects of artesunate in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). We demonstrate that artesunate significantly inhibits proliferation via arresting NPC cells at G2/M phase. It also induces apoptosis through caspase‐dependent and mitochondria‐independent pathways in multiple NPC cell lines. The combination of artesunate and cisplatin is synergistic in targeting NPC cells in in vitro cellular culture system and in vivo xenograft tumor models. Artesunate inhibits phosphorylation of essential molecules involved in Akt/mTOR pathway in NPC cells, such as Akt, mTOR, and 4EBP1, and its inhibitory effects are partially abolished by overexpression of constitutively active Akt. In addition, artesunate also induces mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress via inhibiting mitochondrial respiration, increasing levels of mitochondrial superoxide and cellular reactive oxygen species (ROS), leading to decreased ATP levels. Two ROS scavengers partially abolish the inhibitory effects of artesunate in NPC cells. These data suggest that both inhibition of Akt/mTOR pathway and induction of ROS are required for the action of artesunate in NPC cells. Our work demonstrates that artesunate is a potential candidate for NPC treatment. Our work also highlights the critical roles of Akt/mTOR pathway and mitochondrial function in NPC cells.
Ethanol combined with heparin as a locking solution for the prevention of catheter related blood stream infections in hemodialysis patients: A prospective randomized study
Authors: Sofroniadou Sofia , Revela Ioanna , Kouloubinis Alexandros , Makriniotou Ioanna , Zerbala Sinodi , Smirloglou Despina , Kalocheretis Petros , Drouzas Apostolos , Samonis George , Iatrou Christos
Published: January 2017

Introduction: Ethanol lock solution has been mainly administered in paediatric and home parenteral nutrition patients in order to prevent catheter related blood stream infections (CRBSI). Its utility in hemodialysis (HD) patients with non‐tunneled‐uncuffed catheter (NTC) has been poorly explored.

Methods: We conducted a prospective randomized study in chronic HD patients requiring a newly inserted NTC‐while awaiting for the maturation of an already established arteriovenous fistula (AVF) or arteriovenous graft (AVG) or tunneled‐cuffed catheter insertion. Patients were randomized in two groups: Group A, where the lock solution was ethanol 70% + unfractionated heparin 2000 U/mL and group B, that received only unfractionated heparin 2000 U/mL. Primary end point was CRBSIs whereas exit site infections, thrombotic and bleeding episodes were the secondary end points.

Findings: One hundred three HD patients were enrolled in the study (group A, n = 52; group B, n = 51). The median number of catheter days was 32 for group A (range: 23–39) and 34 (range: 27–40) for group B with no statistically significant difference between the two groups. Group A (ethanol + heparin) demonstrated 4/52 episodes (7.69%) of CRBSI whereas Group B (heparin) 11/51 episodes (21.57%) (P = 0.04). CRBSI rates per 1000 catheter days were 2.53/1000 catheter days for group A and 6.7/1000 catheter days for group B (P = 0.04). Mean cumulative infection‐free catheter survival in the ethanol group did not differ significantly compared to the heparin group (log‐rank test = 2.99, P = 0.08). Thrombotic episodes did not differ between the two groups.

Discussion: Locking of NTCs in HD patients with ethanol 70% + unfractionated heparin reduces CRBSI rates without increasing the thrombotic episodes.