bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Roles enabling the mobilization of organizational knowledge
Authors: Venkitachalam Krishna , Bosua Rachelle
Published: May 2014

Purpose

–Knowledge-based work is growing at a significant pace in the context of large organizations. As a consequence, use and transfer of knowledge are considered important activities of knowledge mobilization. Existing literature suggests that there is an increasing gap in the understanding of roles and typical responsibilities in knowledge mobilization. The purpose of this article is to examine how roles enable knowledge mobilization in large organizations.

Design/methodology/approach

–A qualitative research design was used where three large organizations representing multiple sectors were selected to study roles that enable the mobilization of organizational knowledge.

Findings

–This study explains the understanding of five roles and their typical responsibilities to enable the mobilization of knowledge in large organizations – knowledge mentor, broker, taxonomist, content editor, and gatekeeper. These roles foster collaboration and communication activities within and between teams enabling knowledge mobilization.

Research limitations/implications

–The authors acknowledge the limitations of this paper. Although the recognized roles provide valuable insights with respect to mobility of knowledge, it does not specify how each role can be assessed in terms of performance. Another limitation is that these roles were studied in the context of large-scale organizations where knowledge work is central to their performance.

Originality/value

–This study ' s findings suggest that there is a strong need for management to recognize and value roles and responsibilities to realize organizational knowledge mobilization.
Meta-analytic comparison on the influencing factors of knowledge transfer in different cultural contexts
Authors: Li Jing Hua , Chang Xiao Ran , Lin Li , Ma Li Ya
Published: May 2014

Purpose

–This paper provides a comprehensive assessment of the influencing factors on knowledge transfer through meta-analysis with an emphasis on the influence of cultural contexts.

Design/methodology/approach

–The approach involved the evaluation and analysis of 69 published empirical studies and the categorization of these studies into two groups based on different cultural contexts as described by Hofstede. A meta-analytic approach was then employed to provide a comparative analysis of the categorized studies.

Findings

–The results of the meta-analysis of the influencing factors of knowledge transfer are consistent with the results obtained in most previous studies, indicating a maturation of research in this area. Influencing factors such as knowledge ambiguity, tie strength, trust, and common cognition are shown to impact knowledge transfer in different cultural contexts, particularly with regard to the individualism-low power distance and collectivism-high power distance dimensions defined by Hofstede.

Research limitations/implications

–This analysis was limited to the correlation between the influencing factors and the general performance in knowledge transfer and did not specifically address more detailed dimensions such as efficiency and effectiveness. In addition, this analysis was restricted to the cultural contexts of only two cultural dimensions. However, the review of this broad range of studies provided sufficient data to allow an in-depth analysis of related influencing factors and helped to illustrate and exemplify the influencing mechanisms of culture on knowledge transfer.

Practical implications

–The results presented in this paper can help managers working in cross-cultural environments to understand the key influencing factors that affect knowledge transfer in the workplace. By understanding these factors, managers can more effectively implement methods and procedures that improve cross-cultural knowledge transfer in the work environment.

Originality/value

–This paper provides a detailed insight into the influencing factors found between two distinctive cultural contexts and offers a fresh analysis of influencing factors with regard to knowledge transfer in a cross-cultural environment.
A methodology to manage and monitor social media inside a company: a case study
Authors: Alberghini Elena , Cricelli Livio , Grimaldi Michele
Published: May 2014

Purpose

–This paper aims to discuss the individual participation and involvement affecting the user engagement in social media and to answer the following research questions: Is it possible to measure the individual participation and involvement of social media within organizations? Which factors should be analysed in order to increase the individual participation in social media? Which KPIs should be selected in order to increase the user ' s engagement and increase individual participation in social media? Can social media in a company be measured in terms of their impact on KM?

Design/methodology/approach

–This paper presents a case study that describes how Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) are used to monitor and manage the applications of social technologies, which include many tools facilitating the participation and collaboration on the web. The case study was applied to the information and communication technology area of Eni S.p.A., which is an integrated energy company active in over 70 countries in the world.

Findings

–Based on the indications obtained from the case study, a methodology is proposed to select and develop the appropriate KPIs in order to manage and monitor the application of social technologies. The methodology turned out to be able to monitor collaboration and knowledge sharing activities among employees and to incentivize participation and involvement of employees who use the company ' s social media.

Practical implications

–Organizations can use the suggested methodology as a guideline for managing and monitoring social media inside a company. The possibility of continuously modifying the adopted social media tool by means of corrective actions together with the possibility of adapting the KPIs to new situations make the present methodology an efficient management approach to take on the multifaceted activities of a social media environment.

Originality/value

–Few case studies dealing with the applications regarding the implementation and management of social technologies within organizations have been carried out. Similarly, even if some empirical studies have been proposed to analyse what motivates and prevents employees from sharing their knowledge through social media, there appears to be a lack of studies which have taken into consideration the evaluation of the actual benefits in terms of individual involvement and participation, knowledge sharing and increase in performance.
Engaging with engagement: how UK business schools could meet the innovation challenge
Authors: Thorpe Richard , Rawlinson Richard
Published: May 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to explore how business schools can better engage with business practice, building on literature that highlights their lack of impact and questions their business-model sustainability. Reporting exemplars of good practice in engagement (in both research and teaching), the paper offers six recommendations for Deans of business schools, government, and businesses.

Design/methodology/approach

– The research was undertaken for a report commissioned by the Association of Business Schools for the Minister of State for Universities and Science. Methods included a review of published literature; surveys of practising managers, managers who had changed careers to work in business schools, managers who had taken MBA degrees, doctoral students, deans of business schools, and fellows of learned societies; and interviews with individuals close to government who were themselves preparing reports on shaping government policy for business development and economic growth. Examples of good practice were examined for both content and lessons on how they developed.

Findings

– Six recommendations are proposed, on programme design; faculty skills and experience; developing partnerships and relationships; assessing impact; managing and organizing research; and differentiating business-school offerings for enhanced profile and distinctiveness. Two further crosscutting themes relate to the incentives that might be required for change to happen, and the capabilities needed for delivery.

Originality/value

– Originality in the paper stems from its focus on the solutions to the problems identified, as opposed to the restatement of the problems themselves.
Experimental study on condition assessment of reinforced concrete structure using a dynamics response approach
Authors: Pong Sing Chun , Love P.E.D. , Davis P.R.
Published: May 2014

Purpose

– Condition assessment on reinforced concrete (RC) structures is one of the critical issues as a result of structure degradation due to aging in many developed countries. The purpose of this paper is to examine the sensitivity and reliability of the conventional dynamic response approaches, which are currently applied in the RC structures. The key indicators include: natural frequency and damping ratio. To deal with the non-linear characteristics of RC, the concept of random decrement is applied to analyze time domain data and a non-linear damping curve could be constructed to reflect the condition of RC structure.

Design/methodology/approach

– A full-scale RC structure was tested under ambient vibration and the impact from a rubber hammer. Time history data were collected to analyze dynamics parameters such as natural frequency and damping ratio.

Findings

– The research demonstrated that the measured natural frequency is not a good indicator for integrity assessment. Similarly, it was revealed that the traditional theory of viscous damping performed poorly for the RC with non-linear characteristics. To address this problem, a non-linear curve is constructed using random decrement and it can be used to retrieve the condition of the RC structure in a scientific manner.

Originality/value

– The time domain analysis using random decrement can be used to construct a non-linear damping curve. The results from this study revealed that the damage of structure can be reflected from the changes in the damping curves. The non-linear damping curve is a powerful tool for assessing the health condition of RC structures in terms of sensitivity and reliability.
Making the business of “doing good” a good business
Authors: Lam Miranda , Desmarais Edward
Published: May 2014

Synopsis

Bonnie CLAC (car loans and counseling) is a social entrepreneurship venture whose mission was to help low-to-moderate income consumers purchase new cars. Co-founder and social entrepreneur, Robert Chambers developed a business proposal for the venture. Chambers was struggling to convince banks that the proposal significantly reduced the banks' risks and the proposal provided significant benefits to the banks and community at large. The case begins with another bank rejecting the business proposal, continues with an explanation of the issues sub-prime consumers (generally low-to-moderate income consumers) face when attempting to obtain financing for reliable automobile transportation, and concludes with Chambers beginning to revise his proposal to convince risk averse bankers that Bonnie CLAC's clients were credit worthy and worth the risk. The exhibits for the case are the principal information sources students will use to answer the ice breaker and discussion questions.

Research methodology

The authors developed the case from interviews with Robert Chambers and secondary sources.

Relevant courses and levels

Personal finance, Financial management, Financial institutions management

Theoretical basis

Personal financial planning, Bank lending decisions and Credit scores
Antihypertensive and vascular remodelling effects of the imperatorin derivative OW1 in renovascular hypertension rats
Authors: Zhou Nan , Wang Tao , Song Jia , He Huaizhen , He Jianyu , He Langchong
Published: May 2014

OW1 is a novel imperatorin derivative that exhibits vasodilator activity. In the present study, the antihypertensive effect of and inhibition of vascular remodelling by OW1 were investigated in two‐kidney, one‐clip (2K1C) renovascular hypertensive rats. Rats were subjected to the 2K1C procedure and treated with OW1 (40 or 80 mg/kg per day) for 8 weeks. Blood pressure was measured in conscious rats. Microalbumin (mALB) and total protein (U‐TP) concentrations were determined in the urine, as were plasma concentrations of angiotensin (Ang) II, calcitonin gene‐related peptide (CGRP) and angiotensin‐converting enzyme 1 (ACE). The unclipped kidney was stained with haematoxylin and eosin and Masson trichrome, whereas aortic sections were stained with Masson trichrome. In addition, OW1‐induced vasodilatation was evaluated in vitro in rat mesenteric and renal arteries. Immunohistochemical analysis was used to quantify collagen I and III expression. OW1 relaxed rat mesenteric and renal arterial rings in vitro. Treatment of 2K1C hypertensive rats with OW1 (40 and 80 mg/kg per day) for 8 weeks significantly decreased blood pressure. In addition, OW1 reduced plasma AngII and ACE concentrations and increased plasma CGRP concentrations. At 80 mg/kg per day, OW1 decreased blood urea nitrogen, mALB and U‐TP levels. Histological analysis revealed that OW1 reduced renal arteriolar thickness and relieved the structural hypertrophic arteries. Moreover, OW1 had an inhibitory effect on vascular remodelling and renal lesions in hypertensive rats. In conclusion, the results suggest that OW1 could potentially be a novel candidate for hypertension intervention.
Antihypertensive and anti‐inflammatory actions of combined azilsartan and chlorthalidone in Dahl salt‐sensitive rats on a high‐fat, high‐salt diet
Authors: Jin Chunhua , O'Boyle Sean , Kleven Daniel T. , Pollock Jennifer S. , Pollock David M. , White John J.
Published: May 2014

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) and chronic kidney disease are global health issues. Metabolic syndrome induces hypertension and commonly results in renal damage. The optimal therapy for hypertension in MetS is unknown. Thiazide diuretics are first‐line therapy; however, these drugs may have untoward effects. In the present study we investigated the effects of azilsartan (AZL), chlorthalidone (CLTD) and their combination on blood pressure and renal injury in a rodent model with features of MetS. Dahl salt‐sensitive rats were fed high‐fat (36% fat), high‐salt (4% NaCl) diet. Groups were then treated with vehicle, AZL (3 mg/kg per day), CLTD (5 mg/kg per day) or AZL + CLTD. Mean arterial pressure was recorded continuously by telemetry. After 26 days, rats were killed humanely and their kidneys were harvested for histology. Both AZL and CLTD attenuated the rise in blood pressure compared with vehicle and the combination further reduced blood pressure compared with CLTD alone. All treatments reduced proteinuria and albuminuria. Nephrinuria was prevented only in groups treated with AZL. Nephrinuria was 57% lower and proteinuria was 47% lower with combination therapy compared with AZL alone. All treatments reduced the number of inflammatory cells in the kidney. In conclusion, in our model, AZL and CLTD lower blood pressure and exhibit renal protective effects. Treatment with AZL offers additional protection, as evidenced by lower nephrinuria and plasma monocyte chemoattractant protein‐1 levels. Combination therapy afforded the greatest protective effects and may be the best choice for hypertensive therapy in MetS.
Payoffs from research and development along the Australian food value chain: a general equilibrium analysis
Authors: Borrell Brent , Jiang Tingsong , Pearce David , Gould Ian
Published: May 2014

The payoffs and distribution of payoffs from research and development (R&D) along the food value chain depend on many interacting economic factors. To quantify these, we have developed a general equilibrium model of the Australian economy with detailed farming, processing and marketing information. We use the model to assess potential payoffs and distributions from various R&D scenarios that lead to demand expansion and productivity improvement. We find that productivity improvement caused by R&D is unambiguously beneficial to the whole economy while the benefits of export or domestic market demand expansion mainly accrue to the primary producers and processing industry, when the economy is at full employment. Also, productivity improvement from R&D on‐farm may benefit processors while improvements postfarm may benefit farmers.
Glial cell line‐derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) is an endogenous protector in the mesolimbic system against excessive alcohol consumption and relapse
Authors: Barak Segev , Wang Jun , Ahmadiantehrani Somayeh , Ben Hamida Sami , Kells Adrian P. , Forsayeth John , Bankiewicz Krystof S. , Ron Dorit
Published: May 2014

Moderate social consumption of alcohol is common; however, only a small percentage of individuals transit from social to excessive, uncontrolled alcohol drinking. This suggests the existence of protective mechanisms that prevent the development of alcohol addiction. Here, we tested the hypothesis that the glial cell line‐derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) in the mesolimbic system [e.g. the nucleus accumbens (Acb) and ventral tegmental area (VTA)] is part of such a mechanism. We found that GDNF knockdown, by infecting rat Acb neurons with a small hairpin RNA (shRNA) targeting the GDNF gene, produced a rapid escalation to excessive alcohol consumption and enhanced relapse to alcohol drinking. Conversely, viral‐mediated overexpression of the growth factor in the mesolimbic system blocked the escalation from moderate to excessive alcohol drinking. To access the mechanism underlying GDNF's actions, we measured the firing rate of dopaminergic (DAergic) neurons in the VTA after a history of excessive alcohol intake with or without elevating GDNF levels. We found that the spontaneous firing rate of DAergic neurons in the VTA was reduced during alcohol withdrawal and that GDNF reversed this alcohol‐induced DA deficiency. Together, our results suggest that endogenous GDNF in the mesolimbic system controls the transition from moderate to excessive alcohol drinking and relapse via reversal of alcohol‐dependent neuro‐adaptations in DAergic VTA neurons.
Systemic treatment of HER2‐positive metastatic breast cancer: A systematic review
Authors: Wilcken Nicholas , Zdenkowski Nicholas , White Michelle , Snyder Ray , Pittman Ken , Mainwaring Paul , Green Michael , Francis Prudence , De Boer Richard , Colosimo Maree , Chua Sue , Chirgwin Jacquie , Beith Jane , Bell Richard
Published: May 2014

Aim

We aimed to systematically review and summarize data from the available clinical trials that examined the treatment of HER2‐positive metastatic breast cancer.

Methods

We reviewed phase 2 and 3 studies in which an anti‐HER2 agent was used in one or both arms of the study.

While formal meta‐analysis was not possible for such a heterogeneous group of trials, resulting forest plots outline some generalizable findings.

Results

There is strong evidence that the addition of an anti‐HER2 agent to standard chemo‐ or endocrine therapy improves clinically relevant measurable outcomes. There is also consistent evidence that initial treatment with trastuzumab alone (and subsequent use of a cytotoxic) is inferior to the initial combination of trastuzumab plus chemotherapy, and that either T‐DM1 or dual anti‐HER2 agents are superior to single anti‐HER2 agent regimens. There is no strong evidence that the use of more than one cytotoxic agent together with an anti‐HER2 agent confers any benefit over a single cytotoxic, anti‐HER2 combination.

Conclusion

This review provides a strong evidence base for current clinical practice with a discussion of treatment in the Australian setting.
The Relationship between Genes, Psychological Traits, and Political Participation
Authors: Dawes Christopher , Cesarini David , Fowler James H. , Johannesson Magnus , Magnusson Patrik K. E. , Oskarsson Sven
Published: May 2014

Recent research demonstrates that a wide range of political attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors can be explained in part by genetic variation. However, these studies have not yet identified the mechanisms that generate such a relationship. Some scholars have speculated that psychological traits mediate the relationship between genes and political participation, but so far there have been no empirical tests. Here we focus on the role of three psychological traits that are believed to influence political participation: cognitive ability, personal control, and extraversion. Utilizing a unique sample of more than 2,000 Swedish twin pairs, we show that a common genetic factor can explain most of the relationship between these psychological traits and acts of political participation, as well as predispositions related to participation. While our analysis is not a definitive test, our results suggest an upper bound for a proposed mediation relationship between genes, psychological traits, and political participation.
Uprooting “Indigeneity” in South Africa's Western Cape: The Plant That Moves
Authors: Ives Sarah
Published: May 2014

Amid global concerns about climate change, scientists suggest that South African rooibos tea's indigenous ecosystem may be shifting southward. By 2011, rooibos farmers were beginning to worry that the plant was abandoning its “proper” home and undermining both their livelihoods and their rooted sense of belonging. Using the framework of plant and human mobility to explore the impact of environmental changes on one farming community, I investigate how climate change unsettles not only livelihoods but also social cosmologies. If rooibos's growing range shifts, how will it affect the ways that farmers understand and claim their heritage in connection to this indigenous plant? How does the uprooting of a plant's indigeneity influence ideas about cultural indigeneity as rooted in place? What role can anthropology play in theorizing ecological mobility? In addressing these questions, I contend that understanding the effects of climate change also involves destabilizing the idea of place. By focusing on plant mobility, I articulate a theory of geographical precarity: I imply that people's uncertain claims to belonging in place merged with uncertainty of the rootedness of place itself. I conclude by examining industry efforts to delineate and control where rooibos could “legally” grow through the creation of geographical indications.
Flash visual evoked potentials are not specific enough to identify parieto‐occipital lobe involvement in term neonates after significant hypoglycaemia
Authors: Hu Liyuan , Gu Qiufang , Zhu Zhen , Yang Chenhao , Chen Chao , Cao Yun , Zhou Wenhao
Published: May 2014

Aim

Hypoglycaemia is a significant problem in high‐risk neonates and predominant parieto‐occipital lobe involvement has been observed after severe hypoglycaemic insult. We explored the use of flash visual evoked potentials (FVEP) in detecting parieto‐occipital lobe involvement after significant hypoglycaemia.

Methods

Full‐term neonates (n = 15) who underwent FVEP from January 2008 to May 2013 were compared with infants (n = 11) without hypoglycaemia or parietal‐occipital lobe injury. Significant hypoglycaemia was defined as being symptomatic or needing steroids, glucagon or a glucose infusion rate of ≥12 mg/kg/min.

Results

The hypoglycaemia group exhibited delayed latency of the first positive waveform on FVEP. The initial detected time for hypoglycaemia was later in the eight subjects with seizures (median 51‐h‐old) than those without (median 22‐h‐old) (P = 0.003). Magnetic resonance imaging showed that 80% of the hypoglycaemia group exhibited occipital‐lobe injuries, and they were more likely to exhibit abnormal FVEP morphology (P = 0.007) than the controls. FVEP exhibited 100% sensitivity, but only 25% specificity, for detecting injuries to the parieto‐occipital lobes.

Conclusion

Flash visual evoked potential (FVEP) was sensitive, but not sufficiently specific, in identifying parieto‐occipital lobe injuries among term neonates exposed to significant hypoglycaemia. Larger studies exploring the potential role of FVEP in neonatal hypoglycaemia are required.
The triglyceride to high‐density lipoprotein ratio identifies children who may be at risk of developing cardiometabolic disease
Authors: Bailey Daniel P. , Savory Louise A. , Denton Sarah J. , Davies Ben R. , Kerr Catherine J.
Published: May 2014

Aim

It is important to develop simple, reliable methods to identify high‐risk individuals who may benefit from intervention. This study investigated the association between the triglyceride to high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (TG/HDL) ratio and cardiometabolic risk, cardiorespiratory fitness and physical activity in children.

Methods

Anthropometric, biochemical parameters, cardiorespiratory fitness and accelerometry determined physical activity were assessed in 155 children (80 girls) from 10 to 14 years of age from Bedfordshire, UK. Participants were grouped into high and low TG/HDL ratio groups, according to published thresholds. MANCOVA and logistic regression were used in the analysis.

Results

Cardiometabolic risk factor levels were significantly higher in participants with a high TG/HDL ratio (p < 0.05). The odds of having high waist circumference (OR = 13.99; 95% CI 2.93, 69.25), elevated systolic blood pressure (5.27; 1.39, 20.01), high non‐HDL cholesterol (19.47; 4.42, 85.81) and ≥2 cardiometabolic risk factors (15.32; 3.10, 75.79) were higher in participants with a high TG/HDL ratio. The TG/HDL ratio values were significantly lower in those with high cardiorespiratory fitness (p = 0.01), but there was no association with physical activity.

Conclusion

These findings support the use of the TG/HDL ratio to identify children with cardiometabolic risk factors who may be at risk of developing cardiometabolic disease.
The Evolving Nature of Social Network Research: A Commentary to Gleibs (2014)
Authors: Dumas Guillaume , Serfass David G. , Brown Nicolas A. , Sherman Ryne A.
Published: May 2014

Social networking sites (SNSs) provide researchers with an unprecedented amount of user derived personal information. This wealth of information can be invaluable for research purposes. However, the privacy of the SNS user must be protected from both public and private researchers. New research capabilities raise new ethical concerns. We argue that past research regulation has largely been in reaction to questionable research practices, and therefore new innovations need to be regulated before SNS users’ privacy is irreparably compromised. It is the responsibility of the academic community to start this ethical discourse.
Chemotherapy‐Induced Polyneuropathy: Major Agents and Assessment by Questionnaires
Authors: Zedan Ahmed H. , Vilholm Ole J.
Published: May 2014

Chemotherapy‐induced polyneuropathy (CIPN) is a common, but underestimated, clinical challenge. Incidence varies depending on many factors that are equally as important as the type of chemotherapeutic agent itself. Moreover, the assessment of CIPN is still uncertain, as several of the most frequently used scales do not rely on a formal neurological evaluation and depend on patients’ reports and examiners’ interpretations. Therefore, the aim of this MiniReview was to introduce the most common chemotherapies that cause neuropathy, and in addition to this, highlight the most significant differences between the neuropathic pain scales, which are most commonly used for assessing CIPN.
Biomonitoring and Hormone‐Disrupting Effect Biomarkers of Persistent Organic Pollutants In Vitro and Ex Vivo
Authors: Bonefeld‐Jørgensen Eva C. , Ghisari Mandana , Wielsøe Maria , Bjerregaard‐Olesen Christian , Kjeldsen Lisbeth S. , Long Manhai
Published: May 2014

Persistent organic pollutants (POPs) include lipophilic legacy POPs and the amphiphilic perfluorinated alkyl acids (PFAAs). They have long half‐lives and bioaccumulate in the environment, animals and human beings. POPs possess toxic, carcinogenic and endocrine‐disrupting potentials. Endocrine‐disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are compounds that either mimic or block endogenous hormones and thus disrupt the normal hormone homeostasis. Biomonitoring assesses the internal doses of a person to provide information about chemical exposures. Effect biomarkers assess chemicals potential to affect cellular functions in vivo/ex vivo. Human beings are exposed to complex mixtures of chemicals, having individually very different biological potentials and effects. Therefore, the assessment of the combined, integrated biological effect of the actual chemical mixture in human blood is important. In vitro and ex vivo cell systems have been introduced for the assessment of the integrated level of xenobiotic cellular effects in human beings. Ex vivo studies have shown geographical differences in bioaccumulated POP serum levels, being reflected by the combined biomarker effects of the complex mixture extracted from human serum. Xenohormone receptor transactivities can be used as an ex vivo integrated biomarker of POP exposure and effects. Epidemiological and in vitro/ex vivo studies have supported the potential impact of the combined effect of serum POPs on the activity of hormone and/or dioxin receptors as a risk factor for human health. With focus on hormone disruption, this MiniReview will give an update on recent POP‐related endocrine‐disrupting effects in vitro/ex vivo/in vivo and some related genetic data.
New Compounds Hybrids 1H‐1,2,3‐Triazole‐Quinoline Against Plasmodium falciparum
Authors: Boechat Núbia , Ferreira Maria de Lourdes G. , Pinheiro Luiz C. S. , Jesus Antônio M. L. , Leite Milene M. M. , Júnior Carlos C. S. , Aguiar Anna C. C. , de Andrade Isabel M. , Krettli Antoniana U.
Published: May 2014

Malaria is one of the most prevalent parasitic diseases in the world. The global importance of this disease, current vector control limitations, and the absence of an effective vaccine make the use of therapeutic antimalarial drugs the main strategy to control malaria. Chloroquine is a cost‐effective antimalarial drug with a relatively robust safety profile, or therapeutic index. However, chloroquine is no longer used alone to treat patients with Plasmodium falciparum due to the emergence and spread of chloroquine‐resistant strains, which have also been reported for Plasmodium vivax. However, the activity of 1,2,3‐triazole derivatives against chloroquine‐sensitive and chloroquine‐resistant strains of P. falciparum has been reported in the literature. To enhance the anti‐P. falciparum activity of quinoline derivatives, we synthesized 11 new quinoline‐1H‐1,2,3‐triazole hybrids with different substituents in the 4‐positions of the 1H‐1,2,3‐triazole ring, which were assayed against the W2‐chloroquine‐resistant P. falciparum clone. Six compounds exhibited activity against the P. falciparum W2 clone, chloroquine‐resistant, with IC50 values ranging from 1.4 to 46 μm. None of these compounds was toxic to a normal monkey kidney cell line, thus exhibiting good selectivity indexes, as high 351 for one compound (11).
What do parents need to enhance participation of their school‐aged child with a physical disability? A cross‐sectional study in the Netherlands
Authors: Piškur B. , Beurskens A. J. H. M. , Jongmans M. J. , Ketelaar M. , Smeets R. J. E. M.
Published: May 2014

Background

The aim was to provide an overview of the number, domains and priority of needs as expressed by parents in supporting participation of their school‐aged child with a physical disability. Additionally, this study investigated whether the number of needs within each domain is related to the child's gross motor function level, parent's perceived own general health, family socio‐economic status and family type.

Method

A cross‐sectional study with a total of 146 participants (84.9% mothers) who completed a survey including the Family Needs Inventory – Paediatric Rehabilitation, the Gross Motor Function Classification System Family Report Questionnaire, the General Health Questionnaire and a demographic questionnaire. A need has been operationalized as ‘a family's, parent's or other family member's expressed desire for information, services and supports related to their family’. Descriptive statistics and correlation analysis were applied.

Results

Parents (n = 146; response rate 27%) varied in the number of expressed needs (range 0–124; mean = 35.9; median = 30; SD = 25.6). Highest mean percentage scores were found for the domains ‘Laws, regulations and fees’ (36%), ‘Leisure time’ (35.6%) and ‘Aids, adaptations, facilities and resources’ (33.8%). Seven single needs were expressed by 50% or more of the parents. All domains of needs showed a positive correlation with perceived parental general health. The domains ‘Laws, regulations and fees’, ‘Day care & school’, ‘Emotional and mental support’ and ‘Raising my child’ correlated negatively with family socio‐economic status; and child's gross motor function level correlated positively with the domains ‘Aids, adaptations, facilities and resources’, ‘Practical support at home’ and ‘Leisure time’.

Conclusions

As parents have a major influence on participation of children with a physical disability, meeting their individual needs should become an objective for service providers and policy makers. Family‐centred service might be more effective by putting a greater emphasis on changing the environment.
Acute hypercortisolism: what can the surgeon offer?
Authors: Davenport Emily , Lennard Tom
Published: May 2014

Rapid onset or acute hypercortisolism is a rare critical illness requiring emergency management. The majority of patients will have underlying malignancy with surgery an obvious choice in the minority with resectable disease. For those with unresectable disease, medical management alone has been the traditional approach. However, this often proves inadequate raising interest in the role of surgery as palliation in this setting. Patient selection, timing of surgery and optimal surgical technique are areas of current controversy with little literature available to provide answers. Decisions regarding management of patients with acute hypercortisolism are complex, and these patients are best managed in a subspecialized setting.
Achieving Cross‐Scale Collaboration for Large Scale Conservation Initiatives
Authors: Guerrero Angela M. , Mcallister Ryan R.J. , Wilson Kerrie A.
Published: May 2014

Large‐scale conservation requires the involvement of numerous stakeholders to plan for and implement a range of activities across multiple scales. Establishing and sustaining the effective collaborations necessary to achieve this is a key challenge. Utilizing data from a large‐scale conservation initiative in the south west of Australia we characterize the interactions between stakeholders as a social network. We employ a novel network theoretical approach to assess the different forms of collaboration, including cross‐scale collaboration. We find that the social network predisposes cross‐scale collaboration for invasive animal control, an action where coordination of activities is necessary. We find that for revegetation activities there is little evidence of collaboration across scales, but this could be fostered by a subset of stakeholders acting in a “scale‐bridging” role. Addressing this will likely improve the effectiveness of revegetation efforts and the outcomes of the broader conservation initiative.
Non‐tuberculous mycobacterial infections at San Francisco General Hospital
Authors: Sheu Leslie C. , Tran Tu M. , Jarlsberg Leah G. , Marras Theodore K. , Daley Charles L. , Nahid Payam
Published: May 2014

Background and Aims

The epidemiology of non‐tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) infection is not well defined. We evaluated the trends in incidence of NTM infections at San Francisco General Hospital (SFGH), a large metropolitan county hospital.

Methods

We performed a retrospective review of microbiologic and clinical records of all patients with a positive NTM culture reported from 1993 to 2001. NTM infection was defined by the isolation of >1 NTM from any clinical specimen. Patients were stratified by human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) status. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression were used to identify factors that were independently associated with NTM infection. Trends over time were assessed using Poisson test for trend.

Results

During the study period, 25 736 samples from 7395 patients were cultured for mycobacteria. Of these samples, 2853 (11.1%) from 1345 patients (18.2%) were culture positive for NTM. Patient characteristics associated with infection included younger age (P < 0.001), male gender (P < 0.001), White ethnicity compared with Asian and Hispanic (P < 0.001 and P = 0.01, respectively), and HIV positivity (P < 0.001). Overall, NTM infection at SFGH decreased significantly from 319 cases in 1993 to 59 in 2001 (P < 0.001). Mycobacterium avium was predominant in both HIV‐positive and HIV‐negative populations (74.5% and 44.6% of isolates, respectively), and Mycobacterium kansasii was the second most common NTM species isolated. The proportion of other NTM species isolated in these groups differed.

Conclusion

In contrast to other published studies, time‐series analyses show that NTM isolation rates decreased during the study period at SFGH, where NTM was most strongly associated with HIV infection.
When yesterday's consumption strikes back: Deviation from usual consumption inversely predicts amounts consumed the next weekend evening
Authors: Labhart Florian , Kuntsche Emmanuel
Published: May 2014

Introduction and Aims

Young adults' weekend alcohol consumption is characterised by heavy episodic drinking (HED) with low alcohol use in between. This study investigates whether consuming a lower or higher number of drinks than usual on a given evening predicts consumption the following evening.

Design and Methods

In French‐speaking Switzerland, 115 young adults (57% female, mean age = 23.2) answered questionnaires on their cellphones six times every Thursday, Friday and Saturday evening over five consecutive weeks. Multilevel models with group‐mean centering were used to analyse 462 evening pairs.

Results

Although the sample average number of drinks consumed tended to increase from Thursday [Mmen(SD) = 3.6 (5.0); Mwomen(SD) = 2.9(4.2)] to Saturday [Mmen(SD) = 7.4( 7.1); Mwomen(SD) = 5.2(5.6)], substantial day‐to‐day variations were observed within individuals. Variations from the usual consumption (i.e. higher or lower number of drinks than usual) on the first day had a significant inverse impact on amounts consumed the following day (unstandardised regression coefficient (B) = −0.27, P < 0.01). This effect was more marked for evening pairs including HED (B = −0.44, P < 0.001). Men and heavy drinkers were less subject to day‐to‐day variations than women and usually moderate drinkers.

Discussion and Conclusions

The inverse relationship might result from adverse consequences experienced after HED or an intentional reduction in alcohol consumption in anticipation of a heavy drinking session the next day. Event‐specific prevention is needed for women and usually light or moderate drinkers as their more distinct consumption peaks put them at greater risk, particularly of accidents and injuries. [Labhart F, Kuntsche E. When yesterday's consumption strikes back: Deviation from usual consumption inversely predicts amounts consumed the next weekend evening. Drug Alcohol Rev 2014;33:385–392]
Whistling in 1929: Ramsey and Wittgenstein on the Infinite
Authors: Methven S. J.
Published: May 2014

Cora Diamond has recently criticised as mere legend the interpretation of a quip of Ramsey's, contained in the epigraph below, which takes him to be objecting to or rejecting Wittgenstein's Tractarian distinction between saying and showing. Whilst I agree with Diamond's discussion of the legend, I argue that her interpretation of the quip has little evidential support, and runs foul of a criticism sometimes made against intuitionism. Rather than seeing Ramsey as making a claim about the nature of propositions, as Diamond does, we should understand him as making a claim about the grammar of the logical connectives. Such a view coheres with the extant evidence of the nature of Wittgenstein's and Ramsey's 1929 philosophical encounters. It is also compatible with attributing to Ramsey a recognition of Wittgenstein's distinction and with denying that criticising it is the lesson of the quip.
The biogeography of trophic cascades on US oyster reefs
Authors: Kimbro David L. , Byers James E. , Grabowski Jonathan H. , Hughes A. Randall , Piehler Michael F.
Published: May 2014

Predators can indirectly benefit prey populations by suppressing mid‐trophic level consumers, but often the strength and outcome of trophic cascades are uncertain. We manipulated oyster reef communities to test the generality of potential causal factors across a 1000‐km region. Densities of oyster consumers were weakly influenced by predators at all sites. In contrast, consumer foraging behaviour in the presence of predators varied considerably, and these behavioural effects altered the trophic cascade across space. Variability in the behavioural cascade was linked to regional gradients in oyster recruitment to and sediment accumulation on reefs. Specifically, asynchronous gradients in these factors influenced whether the benefits of suppressed consumer foraging on oyster recruits exceeded costs of sediment accumulation resulting from decreased consumer activity. Thus, although predation on consumers remains consistent, predator influences on behaviour do not; rather, they interact with environmental gradients to cause biogeographic variability in the net strength of trophic cascades.
Peritonitis, abscessation and haemorrhage: Complications of transcutaneous caecal decompression
Authors: Unger L. , Fouché N. , Schnider D. , Witte S.
Published: May 2014

Transcutaneous needle decompression of the caecum through the right flank is a valuable, routine procedure performed to resolve cases of large intestinal tympany. Nevertheless, it can be the cause of potentially life‐threatening complications as highlighted by the 3 cases presented in this case report. Abscess formation, septic peritonitis and haemorrhage following needle decompression are described.
High‐cycle fatigue properties of beta Ti alloy 55Ti–30Nb–10Ta–5Zr, gum metal
Authors: Akita M. , Nakajima M. , Uematsu Y. , Tokaji K. , Kojima T.
Published: May 2014

This paper describes the fatigue properties of the beta titanium alloy 55Ti–30Nb–10Ta–5Zr, generally referred to as ‘Gum Metal’. Rotating bending fatigue tests have been performed in laboratory air and in a 3% NaCl aqueous solution. The results obtained were compared with those of a conventional beta titanium alloy, Ti–22V–4Al. In tensile tests, 55Ti–30Nb–10Ta–5Zr indicated elasticity and microplasticity in the elastic region. Thus, the elastic modulus slightly decreased with an increasing strain, and the work hardening was minimal during plastic deformation. The mechanical properties of both of the alloys were comparable. The fatigue strength of 55Ti–30Nb–10Ta–5Zr in laboratory air was higher than that of Ti–22V–4Al, which could be attributed to the higher fatigue crack initiation resistance of 55Ti–30Nb–10Ta–5Zr than Ti–22V–4Al, while the resistance to small fatigue crack growth was similar. The fatigue strength of 55Ti–30Nb–10Ta–5Zr in laboratory air and in the 3% NaCl aqueous solution was analogous. In addition, corrosion pits were not observed in the run‐out specimen in the 3% NaCl aqueous solution, indicating a high resistance of 55Ti–30Nb–10Ta–5Zr against corrosion fatigue.
Wine and Headache
Authors: Krymchantowski Abouch Valenty , da Cunha Jevoux Carla
Published: May 2014

Background

The notion of migraine attacks triggered by food and beverages has been posited for centuries. Red wine in particular has been acknowledged as a migraine trigger since antiquity when Celsus (25 B.C.‐50 A.D.) described head pain after drinking wine. Since then, references to the relationship between alcohol ingestion and headache attacks are numerous. The most common initiator of these attacks among alcoholic beverages is clearly wine. The aim of this review is to present and discuss the available literature on wine and headache.

Methods

A Medline search with the terms headache, migraine, and wine was performed. Data available on books and written material about wine and medicine as well as abstracts on alcohol, wine, and headache available in the proceedings of major headache meetings in the last 30 years were reviewed. In addition, available technical literature and websites about wine, grapes, and wine making were also evaluated.

Results

Full papers specifically on headache and wine are scarce. General literature related to medicine and wine is available, but scientific rigor is typically lacking. The few studies on wine and headache were mostly presented as abstracts despite the common knowledge and patients' complaints about wine ingestion and headache attacks. These studies suggest that red wine, but not white and sparkling wines, do trigger headache and migraine attacks independently of dosage in less than 30% of the subjects.

Discussion

Wine, and specifically red wine, is a migraine trigger. Non‐migraineurs may have headache attacks with wine ingestion as well. The reasons for that triggering potential are uncertain, but the presence of phenolic flavonoid radicals and the potential for interfering with the central serotonin metabolism are probably the underlying mechanisms of the relationship between wine and headache. Further controlled studies are necessary to enlighten this traditional belief.
Utilization and preference of nutrition information sources in Australia
Authors: Cash Tracee , Desbrow Ben , Leveritt Michael , Ball Lauren
Published: May 2014

Background

The prevalence of chronic disease in Australia is rising, and poor nutrition behaviour is a modifiable risk factor for many chronic diseases. The utilization of appropriate nutrition information has been recommended to promote optimal nutrition behaviour.

Objective

To investigate individuals’ utilization and preference of nutrition information sources as well as perceptions of trustworthiness, credibility and effectiveness of sources.

Design

Cross‐sectional online survey.

Setting and Participants

Ninety‐four residents of the Gold Coast, Australia.

Main Outcome Measures Studied

Respondents’ demographic variables, previously utilized and preferred nutrition information sources, perceptions of trustworthiness, credibility and effectiveness of nutrition information sources.

Results

Dietitians, nutritionists and GPs were the three most preferred sources and were perceived to be most trustworthy, credible and effective. However, the most utilized nutrition information sources were the Internet (62.9%), friends (59.8%), family (58.8%) and magazines (57.7%). Over 30% of respondents reported time to attend appointments as a barrier to accessing their most preferred nutrition information sources. Between 32 and 60% of respondents reported neutral perceptions of the most frequently utilized nutrition information sources in relation to trustworthiness, credibility and effectiveness.

Conclusion

Individuals frequently receive nutrition information from sources that are not their most preferred and sources that they do not perceive as trustworthy, credible or effective. Further research is warranted on the impact of these discrepancies on overall nutrition‐related health literacy and behaviour.