bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Product importance and complexity as determinants of adaptation processes in business relationships
Authors: Sales Baptista Cristina
Published: February 2014

Purpose

– The aim of this paper is to characterize adaptation processes in business relationships. The nature of adaptive behavior is described by outlining activities and events in these relationships. The role of perceived product importance and complexity in the character of the adaptations processes is sought.

Design/methodology/approach

– A case study approach is adopted and two long-term relationships between buyers and sellers of capital equipment in the mining industry are investigated. Perspectives from both sides of the dyad (buyer and seller) were attained through in-depth interviews.

Findings

– Findings show that supplier-based adaptations occur more frequently than customer-based adaptations. The market antecedents of concentration and resource dependency are identified as drivers of adaptive behavior. Furthermore, product importance and complexity are key drivers to adaptation processes and the development of long-term relationships. Supplier's brand name and the choice of a direct channel strategy are identified as indicators of long-term commitment to the market. Moreover, two-task related factors were extremely relevant as selection criteria for capital equipment: the functional suitability and the degree of standardization/customization of the equipment.

Research limitations/implications

– The findings are specific to the market environment and recommendations are given for the realm of the mining industry. Multi-case studies in multi-contexts should be conducted to enable generalization and potential theory-building.

Practical implications

– A number of important managerial implications for buyers and sellers of capital equipment in the mining industry are given.

Originality/value

– This paper contributes to knowledge by providing rich descriptions of adaptation processes. This real life evidence enables the identification of major drivers of adaptive behavior and, consequently, the development of long-term successful relationships.
Three strategies for customer value assessment in business markets
Authors: Keränen Joona , Jalkala Anne
Published: February 2014

Purpose

– The strategies to assess potential and realized customer value have received surprisingly little attention in management literature. The purpose of this paper is to examine potential customer value assessment strategies for business-to-business (B2B) firms and their special characteristics.

Design/methodology/approach

– The empirical part of the study draws from an exploratory, two-part field study involving three pilot firms, and seven best practice firms in customer value assessment. The research design followed an inductive, discovery-oriented grounded theory approach. Primary data were gathered through semi-structured interviews with 35 business managers from ten B2B firms.

Findings

– The study identifies three customer value assessment strategies adopted by firms in business markets: Emergent value sales strategy; Life-cycle value management strategy; and Dedicated value specialist strategy. These strategies highlight different ways of managing and coordinating organizational units in different phases of the customer value assessment process.

Research limitations/implications

– The study was conducted from the supplier's perspective and is context-bound to firms operating in B2B markets.

Practical implications

– Managers need to select an appropriate strategy for customer value assessment depending on market and offering characteristics, and assign clear responsibilities for value potential identification, baseline assessment, and long-term value realization.

Originality/value

– The extant literature on customer value lacks understanding on customer value assessment strategies. The present study identifies three strategies that illuminate the required resources and organizational units at different phases of the customer value assessment process.
Organizational design and pricing capabilities for superior firm performance
Authors: Liozu Stephan , Hinterhuber Andreas , Somers Toni
Published: February 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to test the relationship between organizational antecedents, pricing capabilities, and firm performance.

Design/methodology/approach

– Quantitative survey of 748 managers from mostly large companies globally.

Findings

– It was found that the following five key organizational resources (the 5 Cs) – center-led price management, organizational confidence, championing behaviors, organizational change capacity, and pricing capabilities – positively influence firm performance. Furthermore, it was found that center-led price management, organizational change capacity, and championing behaviors act as important antecedents to pricing capabilities and, except for the former, to organizational confidence. The authors also examine interaction and mediation effects.

Originality/value

– The results thus suggest that generic organizational factors – namely center-led price management – as well as highly idiosyncratic firm, specific capabilities – namely organizational confidence, championing behaviors by top management, organizational change capacity, and pricing capabilities – are key requirements to increase firm performance via pricing.
Automatic Comparison and Evaluation of Impressions Left by a Firearm on Fired Cartridge Cases
Authors: Riva Fabiano , Champod Christophe
Published: February 2014

Recent years have been characterized by a series of publications in the field of firearms investigation questioning the reliability and objectivity of such examination. This research investigates new solutions to decrease the subjective component affecting the evaluation that follows the comparison of impressions left by a firearm on the surface of spent cartridge cases. An automatic comparison system based on 3D measurements has been developed and coupled to a bivariate evaluative model allowing assigning likelihood ratios. Based on a dataset of 79 pistols (all SIG Sauer 9 mm Luger caliber), the system shows a very high discriminating power and the LRs that it provides are very indicative of the true state under both the prosecution and the defense propositions. For example, likelihood ratios exceeding a billion are predominantly obtained when impressions originating from the same source are compared. The system is also characterized by relatively low rates (≤1%) of misleading evidence depending on the firearm considered.
Ancestry Assessment Using Random Forest Modeling, ,
Authors: Hefner Joseph T. , Spradley M. Kate , Anderson Bruce
Published: February 2014

A skeletal assessment of ancestry relies on morphoscopic traits and skeletal measurements. Using a sample of American Black (n = 38), American White (n = 39), and Southwest Hispanics (n = 72), the present study investigates whether these data provide similar biological information and combines both data types into a single classification using a random forest model (RFM). Our results indicate that both data types provide similar information concerning the relationships among population groups. Also, by combining both in an RFM, the correct allocation of ancestry for an unknown cranium increases. The distribution of cross‐validated grouped cases correctly classified using discriminant analyses and RFMs ranges between 75.4% (discriminant function analysis, morphoscopic data only) and 89.6% (RFM). Unlike the traditional, experience‐based approach using morphoscopic traits, the inclusion of both data types in a single analysis is a quantifiable approach accounting for more variation within and between groups, reducing misclassification rates, and capturing aspects of cranial shape, size, and morphology.
False‐Positive Results with Amylase Testing of Citrus Fruits
Authors: Ricci Ugo , Carboni Ilaria , Torricelli Francesca
Published: February 2014

In a case of robbery in which the criminals passed through the garden adorned with calamondin trees (Citrus madurensis), the investigators found in the grass six calamondin fruits, some undamaged, while others apparently bitten. The fruits were collected and sent to the laboratory for DNA analysis to verify the presence of saliva and robbers' DNA profile. A specific immunochromatographic strip test for saliva confirmed the presence of human salivary α‐amylase, but similar positive results were also observed for intact calamondin and other citrus fruits. Further analysis with a specific automated amylase test confirmed the absence of amylase activity. DNA quantification and typing using a specific forensic kit revealed no human DNA presence in any fruits. This case report demonstrates for the first time the occurrence of false positives when human saliva is sought on citrus fruits.
The effect of a change in selection procedures on students' motivation to study dentistry
Authors: Gardner SP , Roberts‐Thomson KF
Published: February 2014

Background

The aim of this study was to determine whether changes in student selection criteria at The University of Adelaide effected a change in motivation and influencing factors to study dentistry by comparing cohorts.

Methods

Online questionnaire completed by first‐year dentistry students at The University of Adelaide between 1993–1996 and 1997–2005.

Results

All 666 students completed the questionnaire with 647 suitable for analysis. The likelihood of students being motivated for a career in dentistry because it ‘fits with family’ was greater for the 1997–2005 cohort (OR = 1.68, 95% CI = 1.14–2.49, p < 0.01) than it was for 1993–1996 enrollees, whereas ‘status’ became less important (OR = 0.47, 95% CI = 0.30–0.73, p < 0.01). Being influenced by a dentist (OR = 2.41, 95% CI = 1.63–3.55, p < 0.001) or a dental employee (OR = 3.19, 95% CI = 0.90–4.85, p < 0.001) was much greater for the 1997–2005 group than it was for the 1993–1996 cohort. Where students came from, parents' level of education and gender were not significant in the multivariate analysis of factors associated with motivation and influences of students' career choice.

Conclusions

Changes to the selection procedure were associated with increased emphasis on lifestyle factors and the dental profession, but not with the desire to help people or the importance of the work itself in students' decision to study dentistry.
Ignorance Is Bias: The Effect of Latino Losers on Models of Latino Representation
Authors: Juenke Eric Gonzalez
Published: February 2014

Nearly every aggregate study of minority legislative representation has observed outcomes of elections (officeholders), rather than the supply of minority candidates. Because of this, scholars have left a large amount of important data, the election losers, out of their models of minority representation. The evidence presented in this article demonstrates that voters in the United States cannot choose minority officeholders because there are rarely minority candidates on the ballot. I use state legislative candidate data from Carsey et al. () and Klarner et al. () to test models of Latino representation that correct for first‐stage selection bias. Once candidate self‐selection is taken into account, the probability of electing a Latino increases enormously. I then use data from 2010 to make out‐of‐sample predictions, which clearly favor the conditional model. Thus, our current understanding of Latino representation is significantly biased by ignoring the first stage of an election, a candidate's decision to run.
Effects of Fire on Seedling Diversity and Plant Reproduction (Sexual vs. Vegetative) in Neotropical Savannas Differing in Tree Density
Authors: Salazar Ana , Goldstein Guillermo
Published: February 2014

Little is known about the effects of fire on the structure and species composition of Neotropical savanna seedling communities. Such effects are critical for predicting long‐term changes in plant distribution patterns in these ecosystems. We quantified richness and density of seedlings within 144 plots of 1 m2located along a topographic gradient in long‐unburned (fire protected since 1983) and recently burned (September 2005) savannas in Brazil. These savannas differ in tree density and canopy cover. Sites along the gradient, however, did not differ in species composition prior to the fire. In recently burned savannas we also evaluated the contribution of vegetative reproduction relative to sexual reproduction by quantifying richness and density of root suckers. Finally, we tested seed tolerance to pulses of high temperatures—similar to those occurring during fires on the soil surface and below—of five dominant savanna tree species. Seedlings were more abundant and diverse in unburned than in burned savannas. Seedling species composition differed among unburned and burned savannas probably reflecting early differences in root: shoot biomass allocation patterns. In recently burned savannas, root suckers were more abundant and diverse than seedlings. Relatively long exposures (>10 min) of temperatures of 90 °C reduced seed germination in all studied species suggesting a negative effect of fire on germination of seeds located at or aboveground level. Because vegetative reproduction contributes more than sexual reproduction in burned environments, frequent fires are likely to cause major shifts in species composition of Neotropical savanna plant communities, favoring clonally produced recruits along tree density/topographic gradients.
Thyroglobulin antibody levels do not predict disease status in papillary thyroid cancer
Authors: Smooke‐Praw Stephanie , Ro Kevin , Levin Olga , Ituarte Philip H. G. , Harari Avital , Yeh Michael W.
Published: February 2014

Background

Thyroglobulin antibodies (TgAb) are present in approximately 20% of patients with papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) and invalidate the serum thyroglobulin (Tg) level as a tumour marker. We examined whether trends in the TgAb level could serve as a surrogate marker of disease status in the surveillance of patients with PTC.

Methods

All patients found to have a least one positive postoperative TgAb level (determined by the Beckman‐Coulter Access Assay) after undergoing initial surgery for PTC from 2000 to 2010 at a single institution were included. Log–log transformation and linear regression were applied to longitudinal TgAb levels, yielding patient‐specific regression coefficients that categorized as follows: highly negative, moderately negative and positive/no trend. The recurrence rate in each category was then assessed.

Results

Ninety‐three of 967 patients with PTC were included. Recurrent disease was detected in 19 patients (20%) after a mean follow‐up time of 51 months. Regression coefficients in the highly negative and moderately negative groups were not different, and hence these groups were pooled. The proportion of recurrent cases in the negative trend group was similar to that in the positive/no trend group (19·7% vs 21·9%, NS). The mean regression coefficients were similar for recurrent and nonrecurrent cases within both the negative trend group (−0·89 vs −0·80, NS) and the positive/no trend group (0·08 vs 0·33, NS).

Conclusion

Trends in the TgAb level do not predict disease status in PTC in our experience. In the context of most commercially available TgAb assays, surveillance of TgAb‐positive patients will hinge on high‐quality imaging until a valid alternative serum marker to Tg is identified.
Clinical features and treatment status of adult myasthenia gravis in Japan
Authors: Murai Hiroyuki , Masuda Masayuki , Utsugisawa Kimiaki , Nagane Yuriko , Suzuki Shigeaki , Imai Tomihiro , Motomura Masakatsu , Konno Shingo , Kira Jun‐ichi
Published: February 2014

Objective

Myasthenia gravis (MG) is classified as early‐onset MG (EOMG; age at onset ≤49 years), late‐onset MG (LOMG; age at onset ≥50 years) or thymoma‐associated MG (TAMG) (E‐L‐T classification). To clarify the characteristics of each group in the E‐L‐T classification in Japan, we carried out multicenter analyses of MG.

Methods

A total of 640 adult patients from 11 MG centers participated in the study. Age at onset, sex, clinical symptoms, frequency of crisis, thymic pathology, positivity of autoantibodies against acetylcholine receptor (AChR) and muscle‐specific receptor tyrosine kinase (MuSK), selected treatment, Cushingoid appearance and post‐intervention status were evaluated in each group.

Results

EOMG, LOMG and TAMG accounted for 44%, 33%, and 23% of the patients, respectively. Females predominated in the EOMG group (77%), whereas there was no sex difference in the LOMG group. The frequency of ocular MG was the highest in the LOMG group (EOMG 15%, LOMG 38%, TAMG 12%). Bulbar symptoms and crisis were most frequent in the TAMG group. Anti‐AChR antibody was always positive in patients with TAMG (EOMG 70%, LOMG 78%, TAMG 99%), whereas anti‐MuSK antibody was never positive in TAMG patients, and more frequently detected in EOMG patients than in LOMG patients. Thymectomy was carried out in 51% of EOMG patients, 26% of LOMG patients and 97% of TAMG patients. Immunotherapy was carried out most aggressively in TAMG patients, and least aggressively in LOMG patients. Minimal manifestations or better with prednisolone ≤5 mg were achieved only in one‐third of EOMG and TAMG patients.

Conclusion

Thymoma‐associated MG required the most aggressive immunotherapy, followed by early‐onset MG.
Morphometric characteristics of cortical and trabecular bone in atrophic edentulous mandibles
Authors: Bertl Kristina , Subotic Miroslav , Heimel Patrick , Schwarze Uwe Y. , Tangl Stefan , Ulm Christian
Published: February 2014

Objectives

Adaptations of the alveolar ridge after tooth loss have been well described. However, studies on the morphometric characteristics of cortical bone are rare; hence, this study of human atrophic edentulous mandibles was undertaken.

Material and methods

Total cortical area, porosity, and thickness, and the percentage of cortical area in the complete mandibular area as well as in an area (height, 10 mm) starting at the most caudal point of the trabecular compartment and extending in the coronal direction were determined in 185 thin ground sections of edentulous mandibles (incisor region, 49; premolar region, 76; molar region, 60; 95 from females and 90 from males; mean age, 78.2 years, SD ±7.8 years; Caucasian donors; cause of death: cardiovascular disease). Further, mandibular height and width and degree of residual ridge resorption (RRR) were recorded.

Results

The percentage of cortical area in the complete mandibular area increased with increasing RRR. Yet, evaluation of the 10‐mm caudal portion corresponding to the basal part of the mandibular body did not confirm these changes in cortical bone. Cortical porosity and thickness decreased from the mesial to the distal region. Cortical porosity was unaffected by RRR, while cortical thickness increased, mainly at lingual aspects.

Conclusions

In conclusion, cortical bone remained stable in different degrees of RRR except for some modulations in the lingual aspects. Changes in the relative composition between cortical and trabecular bone are due to loss of height and total area, mainly at expense of trabecular bone area, but not to adaptations of the cortical bone.
Long‐Range Movement of Humpback Whales and Their Overlap with Anthropogenic Activity in the South Atlantic Ocean
Authors: ROSENBAUM HOWARD C. , MAXWELL SARA M. , KERSHAW FRANCINE , MATE BRUCE
Published: February 2014

Humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) are managed by the International Whaling Commission as 7 primary populations that breed in the tropics and migrate to 6 feeding areas around the Antarctic. There is little information on individual movements within breeding areas or migratory connections to feeding grounds. We sought to better understand humpback whale habitat use and movements at breeding areas off West Africa, and during the annual migration to Antarctic feeding areas. We also assessed potential overlap between whale habitat and anthropogenic activities. We used Argos satellite‐monitored radio tags to collect data on 13 animals off Gabon, a primary humpback whale breeding area. We quantified habitat use for 3 cohorts of whales and used a state‐space model to determine transitions in the movement behavior of individuals. We developed a spatial metric of overlap between whale habitat and models of cumulative human activities, including oil platforms, toxicants, and shipping. We detected strong heterogeneity in movement behavior over time that is consistent with previous genetic evidence of multiple populations in the region. Breeding areas for humpback whales in the eastern Atlantic were extensive and extended north of Gabon late in the breeding season. We also observed, for the first time, direct migration between West Africa and sub‐Antarctic feeding areas. Potential overlap of whale habitat with human activities was the highest in exclusive economic zones close to shore, particularly in areas used by both individual whales and the hydrocarbon industry. Whales potentially overlapped with different activities during each stage of their migration, which makes it difficult to implement mitigation measures over their entire range. Our results and existing population‐level data may inform delimitation of populations and actions to mitigate potential threats to whales as part of local, regional, and international management of highly migratory marine species.

Cuantificación de los Movimientos de Gran Amplitud y el Traslape Potencial con Actividad Antropogénica y las Ballenas Jorobadas en el Océano Atlántico Sur
A randomised, controlled, crossover study to investigate the safety and response of 1R,2S‐methoxamine hydrochloride (NRL001) on anal function in healthy volunteers
Authors: Simpson J. A. D. , Bush D. , Gruss H. J. , Jacobs A. , Pediconi C. , Scholefield J. H.
Published: February 2014

Aims

This study aimed to assess the dose and volume effects of suppository preparations and safety of NRL001 (one of four possible stereoisomers of methoxamine hydrochloride) on anal sphincter tone using rectal suppositories in healthy adult volunteers.

Methods

This was a Phase I, single‐centre, randomised, double‐blind, three‐way crossover study during which subjects received three single doses of 1 g rectal suppositories (containing 5 or 10 mg NRL001 or matching placebo) or 2 g rectal suppositories (containing 10 or 15 mg NRL001 or matching placebo) on three separate dosing days. The outcome measures were mean anal resting pressure (MARP) variables (monitored continuously for 20–30 min before and up to 6 h after dosing), pharmacokinetics (PK) and safety assessments.

Results

Twenty‐six subjects were dosed with study medication. Two subjects were withdrawn prematurely and were not included in the main analysis. There was a dose‐dependent increase in anal sphincter tone (MARP) when comparing the 5 and 10 mg doses of NRL001; however, the 15 mg dose did not have a significantly greater effect than the 10 mg dose. Suppository size (1 or 2 g) did not appear to have an effect on sphincter tone. There was no evidence against dose proportionality for the PK variables, but the mean maximum plasma concentration (Cmax) for the 1 g suppository group was higher than for the 2 g group. Twenty‐one adverse events were reported in 8 (30.8%) subjects. A dose dependent decrease in heart rate was noted; however, there were no adverse events reported that were related to this reduction in heart rate.

Conclusions

The increase in anal sphincter tone supports the potential therapeutic use of NRL001 in treating faecal incontinence, with further studies in patients required. NRL001 was well tolerated in single doses of up to 15 mg.
The upstream Variable Number Tandem Repeat polymorphism of the monoamine oxidase type A gene influences trigeminal pain‐related evoked responses
Authors: Di Lorenzo Cherubino , Daverio Andrea , Pasqualetti Patrizio , Coppola Gianluca , Giannoudas Ioannis , Barone Ylenia , Grieco Gaetano S. , Niolu Cinzia , Pascale Esterina , Santorelli Filippo M. , Nicoletti Ferdinando , Pierelli Francesco , Siracusano Alberto , Seri Stefano , Di Lorenzo Giorgio
Published: February 2014

Monoamines have an important role in neural plasticity, a key factor in cortical pain processing that promotes changes in neuronal network connectivity. Monoamine oxidase type A (MAOA) is an enzyme that, due to its modulating role in monoaminergic activity, could play a role in cortical pain processing. The X‐linked MAOA gene is characterized by an allelic variant of length, the MAOA upstream Variable Number Tandem Repeat (MAOA‐uVNTR) region polymorphism. Two allelic variants of this gene are known, the high‐activity MAOA (HAM) and low‐activity MAOA (LAM). We investigated the role of MAOA‐uVNTR in cortical pain processing in a group of healthy individuals measured by the trigeminal electric pain‐related evoked potential (tPREP) elicited by repeated painful stimulation. A group of healthy volunteers was genotyped to detect MAOA‐uVNTR polymorphism. Electrical tPREPs were recorded by stimulating the right supraorbital nerve with a concentric electrode. The N2 and P2 component amplitude and latency as well as the N2–P2 inter‐peak amplitude were measured. The recording was divided into three blocks, each containing 10 consecutive stimuli and the N2–P2 amplitude was compared between blocks. Of the 67 volunteers, 37 were HAM and 30 were LAM. HAM subjects differed from LAM subjects in terms of amplitude of the grand‐averaged and first‐block N2–P2 responses (HAM>LAM). The N2–P2 amplitude decreased between the first and third block in HAM subjects but not LAM subjects. The MAOA‐uVNTR polymorphism seemed to influence the brain response in a repeated tPREP paradigm and suggested a role of the MAOA as a modulator of neural plasticity related to cortical pain processing.
Involvement of the endocannabinoid system in osteoarthritis pain
Authors: La Porta Carmen , Bura Simona A. , Negrete Roger , Maldonado Rafael
Published: February 2014

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease associated with articular cartilage degradation. The major clinical outcome of osteoarthritis is a complex pain state that includes both nociceptive and neuropathic mechanisms. Currently, the therapeutic approaches for osteoarthritis are limited as no drugs are available to control the disease progression and the analgesic treatment has restricted efficacy. Increasing evidence from preclinical studies supports the interest of the endocannabinoid system as an emerging therapeutic target for osteoarthritis pain. Indeed, pharmacological studies have shown the anti‐nociceptive effects of cannabinoids in different rodent models of osteoarthritis, and compelling evidence suggests an active participation of the endocannabinoid system in the pathophysiology of this disease. The ubiquitous distribution of cannabinoid receptors, together with the physiological role of the endocannabinoid system in the regulation of pain, inflammation and even joint function further support the therapeutic interest of cannabinoids for osteoarthritis. However, limited clinical evidence has been provided to support this therapeutic use of cannabinoids, despite the promising preclinical data. This review summarizes the promising results that have been recently obtained in support of the therapeutic value of cannabinoids for osteoarthritis management.
Do‐or‐die life cycles and diverse post‐infection resistance mechanisms limit the evolution of parasite host ranges
Authors: Sieber Michael , Gudelj Ivana
Published: February 2014

In light of the dynamic nature of parasite host ranges and documented potential for rapid host shifts, the observed high host specificity of most parasites remains an ecological paradox. Different variants of host‐use trade‐offs have become a mainstay of theoretical explanations of the prevalence of host specialism, but empirical evidence for such trade‐offs is rare. We propose an alternative theory based on basic features of the parasite life cycle: host selection and subsequent intrahost replication. We introduce a new concept of effective burst size that accounts for the fact that successful host selection does not guarantee intrahost replication. Our theory makes a general prediction that a parasite will expand its host range if its effective burst size is positive. An in silico model of bacteria‐phage coevolution verifies our predictions and demonstrates that the tendency for relatively narrow host ranges in parasites can be explained even in the absence of trade‐offs.
Cortical thickness and hippocampal shape in pure vascular mild cognitive impairment and dementia of subcortical type
Authors: Kim H. J. , Ye B. S. , Yoon C. W. , Noh Y. , Kim G. H. , Cho H. , Jeon S. , Lee J. M. , Kim J.‐H. , Seong J.‐K. , Kim C.‐H. , Choe Y. S. , Lee K. H. , Kim S. T. , Kim J. S. , Park S. E. , Kim J.‐H. , Chin J. , Cho J. , Kim C. , Lee J. H. , Weiner M. W. , Na D. L. , Seo S. W.
Published: February 2014

Background and purpose

The progression pattern of brain structural changes in patients with isolated cerebrovascular disease (CVD) remains unclear. To investigate the role of isolated CVD in cognitive impairment patients, patterns of cortical thinning and hippocampal atrophy in pure subcortical vascular mild cognitive impairment (svMCI) and pure subcortical vascular dementia (SVaD) patients were characterized.

Methods

Forty‐five patients with svMCI and 46 patients with SVaD who were negative on Pittsburgh compound B (PiB) positron emission tomography imaging and 75 individuals with normal cognition (NC) were recruited.

Results

Compared with NC, patients with PiB(−) svMCI exhibited frontal, language and retrieval type memory dysfunctions, which in patients with PiB(−) SVaD were further impaired and accompanied by visuospatial and recognition memory dysfunctions. Compared with NC, patients with PiB(−) svMCI exhibited cortical thinning in the frontal, perisylvian, basal temporal and posterior cingulate regions. This atrophy was more prominent and extended further toward the lateral parietal and medial temporal regions in patients with PiB(−) SVaD. Compared with NC subjects, patients with PiB(−) svMCI exhibited hippocampal shape deformities in the lateral body, whilst patients with PiB(−) SVaD exhibited additional deformities within the lateral head and inferior body.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that patients with CVD in the absence of Alzheimer's disease pathology can be demented, showing cognitive impairment in multiple domains, which is consistent with the topography of cortical thinning and hippocampal shape deformity.
Creating the Future Together: Toward a Framework for Research Synthesis in Entrepreneurship
Authors: van Burg Elco , Romme A. Georges L.
Published: February 2014

To develop a body of evidence–based knowledge on entrepreneurship, findings and contributions from the positivist, narrative, and design research traditions in this area need to be combined. Therefore, a framework for research synthesis in terms of social mechanisms, contextual conditions, and outcome patterns is developed in this paper. Subsequently, a synthesis of the existing body of research findings on entrepreneurial opportunities serves to illustrate how this framework can be applied and provides results that inform entrepreneurial action. Finally, we discuss how this synthetic approach serves to systematically connect the fragmented landscape of entrepreneurship research, and thus gradually build a cumulative and evidence–based body of knowledge on entrepreneurship.
Leptin controls hair follicle cycling
Authors: Watabe Reiko , Yamaguchi Takashi , Kabashima‐Kubo Rieko , Yoshioka Manabu , Nishio Daisuke , Nakamura Motonobu
Published: February 2014

Leptin is a cytokine well known for its ability to control body weight and energy metabolism. Several lines of evidence have recently revealed that leptin also plays an important role in wound healing and immune modulation in skin. Sumikawa et al. Exp Dermatol 2014 evaluated the effect of leptin on hair follicle cycling using mutant and wild‐type mice. They report that leptin is produced in dermal papilla cells in hair follicles and that leptin receptor–deficient db/db mice show an abnormality in hair follicle cycling. Moreover, leptin injection induced the transition into the growth stage of the hair cycle (anagen). On this basis, it now deserves exploration whether leptin‐mediated signalling is a key stimulus for anagen induction and whether this may be targeted to manage human hair disorders with defect in the control of hair follicle cycling.
Increased frequencies of CD11b+CD33+CD14+HLA‐DRlow myeloid‐derived suppressor cells are an early event in melanoma patients
Authors: Rudolph Berenice M. , Loquai Carmen , Gerwe Alexander , Bacher Nicole , Steinbrink Kerstin , Grabbe Stephan , Tuettenberg Andrea
Published: February 2014

Myeloid‐derived suppressor cells (MDSC) are a heterogeneous cell population characterized by immunosuppressive activity. Elevated levels of MDSC in peripheral blood are found in inflammatory diseases as well as in malignant tumors where they are supposed to be major contributors to mechanisms of tumor‐associated tolerance. We investigated the frequency and function of MDSC in peripheral blood of melanoma patients and observed an accumulation of CD11b+CD33+CD14+HLA‐DRlow MDSC in all stages of disease (I–IV), including early stage I patients. Disease progression and enhanced tumor burden did not result in a further increase in frequencies or change in phenotype of MDSC. By investigation of specific MDSC‐associated cytokines in patients’ sera, we found an accumulation of IL‐8 in all stages of disease. T‐cell proliferation assays revealed that MDSC critically contribute to suppressed antigen‐specific T‐cell reactivity and thus might explain the frequently observed transient effects of immunotherapeutic strategies in melanoma patients.
Dual sgRNAs facilitate CRISPR/Cas9‐mediated mouse genome targeting
Authors: Zhou Jiankui , Wang Jianying , Shen Bin , Chen Li , Su Yang , Yang Jing , Zhang Wensheng , Tian Xuemei , Huang Xingxu
Published: February 2014

The bacterial clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)/CRISPR‐associated 9 (Cas9) system is a versatile RNA‐guided mammalian genome modification system. One‐step generation of mouse genome targeting has been achieved by co‐microinjection of one‐cell stage embryos with Cas9 mRNA and small/single guide (sg)RNA. Many studies have focused on enhancing the efficiency of this system. In the present study, we report that simultaneous use of dual sgRNAs to target an individual gene significantly improved the Cas9‐mediated genome targeting with a bi‐allelic modification efficiency of up to 78%. We further observed that the target gene modifications were characterized by efficient germline transmission and site‐dependent off‐target effects, and also that the apolipoprotein E gene knockout‐mediated defects in blood biochemical parameters were recapitulated by CRISPR/Cas9‐mediated heritable gene modification. Our results provide a dual sgRNAs strategy to facilitate CRISPR/Cas9‐mediated mouse genome targeting.
Geomorphic legacy controls macrophyte distribution within and across disconnected floodplain lakes
Authors: Negishi Junjiro N. , Soga Masashi , Ishiyama Nobuo , Suzuki Noriyasu , Yuta Teruaki , Sueyoshi Masanao , Yamazaki Chitose , Koizumi Itsuro , Mizugaki Shigeru , Hayashida Kazufumi , Nunokawa Masanori , Yoshimura Nobuhiko
Published: February 2014

Degradation of floodplains continues with an increasing number of floodplain lakes disconnected from the fluvial dynamics of rivers. Limited understanding is available as to how historical geomorphic formation processes (i.e. geomorphic legacy) determine contemporary ecosystem structure and function. We tested the hypothesis that geomorphic legacy mediates morphometry and results in heterogeneity of macrophyte distributions in disconnected floodplain lakes.

The distribution of macrophyte cover was examined in relation to environmental factors, including water nutrient level, morphometry of lakes and patch shelter level across and among three types of lakes along the Ishikari River, Japan. Artificial lakes (isolated by channelisation), natural oxbow lakes and marsh lakes have been disconnected for more than 40 years from natural flood pulses because of dyke construction.

The presence of macrophytes (in 5 × 5 m areas) was predicted well by a combination of local water depth and bed slope. Lake average depth, higher values indicating lakes that are more deeply incised with a steeper‐sloped littoral zone, had the strongest and most negative influence on total macrophyte cover across lakes. Cover was least in artificial lakes because of greater average depth.

Predicted area of macrophyte cover was significantly less than occupied by actual cover in artificial lakes compared with other lake types. Macrophyte cover in artificial lakes was particularly vulnerable to external factors such as waves and wind.

This study underscored the significance of geomorphic legacy in explaining a large proportion of heterogeneity of total macrophyte cover in the study lakes. Artificial lakes did not have the macrophyte habitat quality of natural lakes. When lake morphometry needs to be altered, local conditions as well as patch‐scale properties should be carefully examined in the light of the geomorphic legacy left by dynamic river–floodplain interactions.
Nonlinear response of stream ecosystem structure to low‐level phosphorus enrichment
Authors: Taylor Jason M. , King Ryan S. , Pease Allison A. , Winemiller Kirk O.
Published: February 2014

Anthropogenic inputs of nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) create environmental conditions that alter biological organisation and ecosystem functioning in fresh waters. We studied 38 wadeable streams spanning a N and P gradient to contrast responses of algal and fish assemblages to nutrient enrichment.

Surface water total P (TP) and total N (TN) concentrations represented a wide range (TP: 7–2380 μg L−1; TN: 127–15 860 μg L−1) and were correlated across our study sites. Total P explained significantly more variance in periphyton carbon (C)‐to‐nutrient (C : P, C : N) and N : P ratios than TN. Abrupt, nonlinear declines in these ratios were observed between 20 and 50 μg L−1 TP and 500–1000 μg L−1 TN; beyond these values, ratios exhibited minimal additional decline.

Algae assemblage structure was strongly linked to surface water TP, TN and catchment‐scale nutrient sources (wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) discharges and % pasture cover). In particular, there were synchronous declines in frequency and cell densities of many alga species associated with TP concentrations >21 μg L−1 (90% CI of 18–48 μg L−1) as well as simultaneous increases in tolerant species associated with increasing enrichment.

Fish assemblage structure was most strongly associated with % pasture, WWTP discharges and fine sediment cover, yet also showed significant but weaker correlations with surface water and periphyton nutrient variables. However, two benthic fish species, Etheostoma spectabile and Campostoma anomalum, significantly declined with TP >28 μg L−1 (90% CI, 24–56 μg L−1) and 34 μg L−1 (90% CI, 21–56 μg L−1), respectively. Conversely, the tolerant minnow Cyprinella lutrensis and invasive carp Cyprinus carpio increased nonlinearly with increasing surface water TP.

Our results provide new insights into interpretation and analysis of assemblage‐level responses to nutrient enrichment. Our findings indicate that a numerical criterion for surface water TP of c. 20 μg L−1 would be needed to maintain natural algae assemblages and at least two specialist fishes within our study region. Proliferation of weedy alga species and increased abundance of invasive fishes are also likely when surface water concentrations exceed these thresholds. While many streams likely exceed these thresholds, managers should consider potential low‐level enrichment effects when developing criteria for ecosystems to protect existing nutrient‐limited streams.
The prognostic value of combined clinicopathological and biomarker modelling for non‐muscle‐invasive bladder cancer
Authors: Pan Chin‐Chen , Yu Hui‐Jung , Chang Yen‐Hwa
Published: February 2014

Aims

To construct a prognostic model, incorporating clinicopathological variables and biomarkers, to predict recurrence, progression and cancer‐specific mortality for patients who have undergone transurethral resection of non‐muscle‐invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC).

Methods and results

A total of 12 biomarkers were evaluated using immunohistochemical analysis of tissue arrays of 605 NMIBCs. Competing risk analyses were performed to derive prognostic indices and nomograms. In addition to the 2004 WHO histological grade and intravesical instillation status, five biomarkers (i.e. Ki‐67, p53, cyclin D1, cyclooxygenase‐2 and heat shock protein‐27) were selected on the grounds of independent statistical significance. Based on the prognostic model, four distinct risk groups were discerned. NMIBC patients with extensive lamina propria invasion (T1e) had the highest risk. Patients with non‐invasive and focal lamina propria‐invasive NMIBCs (Ta/T1f) with a high prognostic index showed a risk approaching or equivalent to that of patients with T1e tumours. Patients with Ta/T1f NMIBCs with low indices were mostly indolent, while those with intermediate indices had a risk in between that observed for T1e and Ta/T1f NMIBCs tumours.

Conclusions

Robust risk tables and nomograms were created to predict an overall perspective of disease outcomes, which may aid in developing individualized follow‐up programmes.
Combining Statistical Evidence
Authors: Kulinskaya Elena , Morgenthaler Stephan , Staudte Robert G.
Published: February 2014

The combination of evidence from independent studies has a curious history. The origins reach back at least to the beginning of the 20th century. Since the mid‐1970s, meta‐analysis has become popular in several fields, among them medical statistics and the behavioural sciences. The most widely used procedures were perfected in early papers, and subsequently, a kind of groupthink has taken hold of meta‐analysis. This explains the need for a review in a statistics journal, destined for a statistical audience. Meta‐analysis is not a hot research topic among graduate students in statistics, and by writing this article, we hope to change this. We wish to point out the shortcomings of the mainstream view and exhibit some of the open problems that await the attention of statistical researchers.

A host of competent reviews of meta‐analysis have been published, and several book‐length treatments are also available. We have listed many of these in the bibliography but cannot guarantee completeness.
Synthesis and Characterization of Geopolymer from Bayer Red Mud with Thermal Pretreatment
Authors: Ye Nan , Yang Jiakuan , Ke Xinyuan , Zhu Jing , Li Yalin , Xiang Cheng , Wang Huabin , Li Lei , Xiao Bo
Published: February 2014

A composite geopolymeric material was synthesized from Bayer red mud combined with granulated blast‐furnace slag. Thermal pretreatment was applied to improve the solubility of red mud in alkaline solution to promote geopolymerization. The dissolution efficiencies of alumina and silica reached a maximum when red mud was calcined at 800°C, resulting in the highest compressive strength of binders. It was demonstrated that a higher solubility of calcined red mud led to a higher strength of the composite binders. The characteristic microstructures of hydration products were studied to illustrate the geopolymerization process by XRD, FTIR and SEM. The results showed that aluminosilicates were dissolved in the alkaline solution to form nanostructural particulates during the early dissolution process, and then accumulated to form highly dense geopolymeric matrices through solidification reaction. The coexistence of geopolymer and C–(A)–S–H is suggested to contribute to the good performance of the composite binders.
Age is not a contraindication to home‐based dialysis – Quality‐of‐Life outcomes favour older patients on peritoneal dialysis regimes relative to younger patients
Authors: Griva Konstadina , Yu Zhenli , Chan Sally , Krisnasamy Thanaletchumi , Yamin Ruyani Bte Abu , Zakaria Faezah Bte , Wu Sin Yan , Oei Elizabeth , Foo Marjorie
Published: February 2014

Aim

To compare Quality of Life, anxiety and depression between older (≥65 years) and younger (<65 years) patients across automated peritoneal dialysis and continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis.

Background

There is a lack of studies as to whether the different peritoneal dialysis modalities confer similar outcomes in older and younger patients.

Design

Cross‐sectional.

Methods

A total of 201 patients completed the Kidney Disease Quality of Life Short‐Form, World Health Organization Quality of Life Instrument, Short Form and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale. Comorbidity and biochemical values were abstracted from medical records.

Results

Older patients reported significantly better quality of life than younger patients in the Kidney Disease Quality of Life Short‐Form effects of kidney disease and patient satisfaction and the World Health Organization Quality of Life Instrument overall Quality‐of‐Life/health despite worse clinical profile. Quality of life outcomes were comparable between automated peritoneal dialysis and continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis with the exception of the Kidney Disease Quality of Life Short‐Form symptoms in favour of automated peritoneal dialysis. Levels of anxiety and depression were equivalent for older and younger patients across peritoneal dialysis modalities. The observed quality‐of‐life advantages for older patients persisted after case‐mix adjustments and extended to more quality‐of‐life domains and depression and anxiety.

Conclusion

Our findings of superior quality of life in patients aged ≥ 65 support the expansion of peritoneal dialysis use in older patients. Patients across different age groups should be given non‐biased information about both peritoneal dialysis modalities and individual preferences should be elicited and carefully considered by healthcare providers.
Caring nurse practice in the intrapartum setting: nurses' perspectives on complexity, relationships and safety
Authors: Glenn Lori A. , Stocker‐Schnieder Julia , McCune Renee , McClelland Molly , King Debbie
Published: February 2014

Aim

This article reports on a qualitative study of nurse perceptions of caring nurse practice in the complex adaptive system of health care.

Background

Caring nurse practice encompasses technical skills and caring behaviours. Maternity care in the USA has seen worsening maternal and neonatal outcomes and safety has become a priority. As a result, hospital systems have begun efforts to improve outcomes, initiating safety and quality programmes that standardize care and implementing nursing frameworks that enhance relationships.

Design

Qualitative hermeneutic phenomenology.

Methods

A qualitative design analysed 13 nurses' perspectives on caring practice during the second stage of labour. In June and July of 2012, interviews were conducted with 13 labour and delivery nurses located in a hospital that had adopted a perinatal safety initiative and relationship‐focused nursing model. The nurses described caring nurse practice and the factors that affected its provision. Transcripts of audio recordings and notes taken during interviews were analysed for themes and fundamental meanings.

Findings

Nurses' perspectives about the provision of caring nurse practice was affected by the complexity of the healthcare system, interactions with team members, challenges related to documentation; and respect for natural birth.

Conclusion

Nurses at all levels of practice can use these perspectives to identify patterns in the complex adaptive healthcare system to improve quality and safety. Best practices include enhancing teamwork, implementing safety initiatives and promoting a Relationship‐Based framework. Continued study of caring nurse practice could lead to establishment of additional safety and quality protocols vital to improving patient outcomes.