bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Path-Goal Theories of Leadership: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Wofford J. C. , Liska Laurie Z.
Published: November 2010

Meta-analyses of 120 studies were conducted to test hypotheses of path-goal theories. Chi-square results showed that potential situational and artifactual moderators exist for the relationships of leader behaviors with the dependent variables. Of 16 moderator tests that could be conducted, 7 met the criteria as moderators; however the effect of one moderator was in the opposite direction to that hypothesized. The analyses indicated that much of the research testing path-goal theories has been flawed. Suggestions for future research are made.
Don’t “Waste” Your Time! The Effects of Time Series Errors in Management Research: The Case of Ownership Concentration and Research and Development Spending
Authors: Bergh Donald D.
Published: November 2010

The potential effects of “time series errors” in longitudinal analysis are examined empirically. Using a common hypothesis (the relationship between ownership concentration and research and development (R&D) spending) and a panel of 183 Fortune 500 firms (I 985-l 988) several time series errors are calculated. These analyses are then contrasted with the results of a procedure protected from time series errors. Comparisons show that (I) results may depend upon how researchers define and measure longitudinal effects; (2) time series errors can have significant effects on empirical findings; and (3) the linkage between ownership concentration and R&D may not be as clear-cut as previous studies have suggested. Recommendations for how researchers should account, save, and tell their time are offered.
Interaction, Nonlinearity, and Multicollinearity: implications for Multiple Regression
Authors: Cortina Jose M.
Published: November 2010

Moderated Hierarchical Multiple Regression (MHMR) is typically used to test for the presence of interactions. When an interaction term is composed of correlated variables, linearity and additivity become confounded. The result of this confounding is that an interaction term in MHMR may be statistically significant only because of its overlap with unmeasured nonlinear terms. I recommend that squared terms be used as covariates in such situations and show that the resulting loss of power with respect to the test of significance for the interaction term is limited to that associated with the loss of degrees of freedom and is therefore negligible if it exists at all.
The Japanese Management Theory Jungle-Revisited
Authors: Keys J. Bernard , Denton Luther Trey , Miller Thomas R.
Published: November 2010

This study extends and updates a review published in the Academy of Management Review in 1984. First the external forces that have shaped Japanese management practices are reviewed. Next a description of the practices that have traditionally been viewed as Japanese management practices is presented. This section includes a discussion of overlapping Japanese organizations, long term planning horizons, decision making and control, just-in-time manufacturing, TQC, QCs and continuous improvement, aggressive R&D, lifetime employment, generalists career paths, company unions, and women as temporaries and support groups. The last section, focusing on the future of Japanese management, critiques the effectiveness of Japanese management practices, reviews the changes taking place in Japanese management, presents a model which conceptualizes the Japanese management system of the future, and identifies eleven propositions describing projected changes in this system. Finally, the problems inherent in the research reviewed are summarized and some needs for future research are discussed.
Team Mental Model: Construct or Metaphor?
Authors: Klimoski Richard , Mohammed Susan
Published: November 2010

There has been a recent resurgence of interest in group cognition in the field of organizational science. However, despite the apparent enthusiasm for the notion of the group mind in some modern guise, important conceptual work is needed to examine the concept critically. We attempt to do this in our treatment of the content, form, function, antecedents, and consequences of team mental models. In addition, we illustrate how the construct can bring explanatory power to theories of team performance and offer other implications for research and practice.
The Role of Human Resource Systems in Job Applicant Decision Processes
Authors: Bretz Robert D. , Judge Timothy A.
Published: November 2010

Given that organizations make choices about how to manage their human resources, information about the organization is often expressed or implied in the human resource systems that organizations implement. This study proposes that information conveyed through human resource systems affects applicant job choices, that particular systems will be more important to some people than to others, and that job acceptance will be influenced by the degree to which individual characteristics match the content of the system information presented. A policy-capturing design was used to assess the effects of human resource systems within the context of other variables that past research has shown to significantly influence job choices. Results suggested support for the importance of human resource systems in job choice decisions, and further suggested that the fit between individual characteristics and organizational settings described by these systems may be particularly important determinants of job acceptance.
Test of a Latent Structure of Performance Ratings Derived from Wherry’s (1952) Theory of Rating
Authors: Lance Charles E.
Published: November 2010

A model of the latent structure of performance ratings based on Wherry's (19.52) theory of rating was developed which sought to explain relationships between multiple ratings, each of multiple performance dimensions, obtained from multiple rating sources. The model was tested using data obtained from first-and second-level supervisors who rated the performance of approximately 700 entry level clerical and professional/technical employees of 96 insurance, financial, and service organizations. Results only partially confirmed the a priori model, supporting specifications of dimensional true performance and overall rater bias effects, but failing to support specifications of areal (dimensional) bias effects on ratings.
Top Management Team Certainty: Environmental Assessments, Teamwork, and Performance Implications
Authors: Isabella Lynn A. , Waddock Sandra A.
Published: November 2010

This research explored the concept of top management team (TMT) certainty, that is, the degree of confidence that the TMT has about its environment assessments and subsequent strategic decisions. Using a banking simulation, this exploratory study suggested that beliefs about the environment and a strong team orientation were critical determinants of TMT certainty, while actual environmental volatility and consensus within the TMT were not. Additionally, the research explored the positive relationship between TMT certainty and organizational performance.
Wording Effects in the Measurement of Role Conflict and Role Ambiguity: A Multitrait-Multimethod Analysis
Authors: Harris Michael M. , Bladen Amy
Published: November 2010

A Multitrait-Multimethod(MTMM) matrix was used to evaluate the effect of item wording (i.e., comfort versus stress-worded) on measures of role conflict and role ambiguity. The results indicated that wording factors explained a significant amount of item variance. Moreover, several substantive correlations between role conflict, role ambiguity, and other constructs (e.g., role overload) were reduced when wording factors were taken into account. These findings point to the need to more fully consider and understand item wording. Future research should determine the cause of wording factors, which may be due to cognitive influences (e.g., carelessness), or may represent unmeasured substantive constructs, such as negative affectivity (NA) or social desirability.
Looking Fair or Being Fair: Remedial Voice Procedures in Nonunion Workplaces
Authors: Feuille Peter , Chachere Denise R.
Published: November 2010

We analyze the correlates and characteristics of grievance procedures covering nonunion employees in 19.5 private firms. These remedial voice procedures tend to exist in larger and completely nonunion firms that place a high value on their human resources. Although these procedures guarantee employees the right to file grievances and contain considerable procedural formality, most of them give management the lion S share of process control and decision control over employee complaints.
Antecedents and Effects of Outside Director’s Awareness of CEO Decision Style
Authors: Judge William Q. , Dobbins Gregory H.
Published: November 2010

There have been increasing calls for greater outside directors to be more aware and informed about the firm S decisions and decision-making process. If outsiders are more informed, it is presumed that they will work more closely with the CEO, and as a result, positively influence firm performance. This research examined individual outside directors’ awareness of one prominent aspect of the CEO’S activity, namely the CEO’S strategic decision style. We found that the outside director3 awareness of the CEOS decision style was positively related to financial profitability and negatively related to financial risk after controlling for industry, organizational size, profit orientation, board leadership, and proportion of insiders. In addition, we found that the CEOS tenure was negatively related to outsider awareness, but this relationship was stronger in non-profit organizations and situations where the CEO did not chair the board. Implications of the findings for future research and application are discussed.
Combined Effects of Normative Information and Task Difficulty on the Goal Commitment-Performance Relationship
Authors: Martin Beth Ann , Manning Donald J.
Published: November 2010

The role of normative information, task difficulty and goal commitment on task performance in an assigned goal condition was investigated in a laboratory study using 209 student volunteers. The experiment was a 2 (task difficulty) by 2 (normative information) factorial design. All subjects received assigned difficult goals and normative information indicating how previous individuals had performed on one of two versions of an anagram task (easy or difficult) after which subjects indicated their goal commitment and completed anagrams for a short work period. Results indicated a significant 3-way interaction (task difficulty, normative information and goal commitment) on task performance. Findings suggest that goal commitment moderates the effects of normative information and task difficulty on task performance.
The Effects of Understaffing on Individual and Group Performance in Professional and Trade Occupations
Authors: Ganster Daniel C. , Dwyer Deborah J.
Published: November 2010

Drawing on prior research on staffing sufficiency theory, we hypothesized that individuals working in understaffed groups would experience higher levels of perceived task scope and utilization of skills, and that these task perceptions would lead to higher levels of organizational commitment and work performance. Data were gathered from 684 workers from 160 blue-collar groups and 55 white-collar groups. Our path analyses indicated that moderate levels of understaffing were associated with higher levels of task perceptions and commitment for both blue-collar and white-collar individuals. But only for the white-collar sample did task perceptions, in turn, lead to higher performance. At the group level of analysis, however, understaffing was associated with lower levels of group performance. We suggest that these findings have important implications for organizations and departments that are considering structural downsizing.
The Strategic Usefulness of Management Information as Perceived by Middle Managers
Authors: Mangaliso Mzamo P.
Published: November 2010

The study sought to investigate the impact of the contextual variables of decentralization and environmental uncertainty on the strategic usefulness of management information as perceived by middle managers of an overseas subsidiary of a large, diversified multinational corporation. Management information was expressed in terms of the characteristics of aggregation, scope, and timeliness. Factor analysis was used to verify these dimensions. Data were collected through the use of a questionnaire. Three hypothesized relationships between the contextual variables and the information characteristics were tested through multiple regression analysis. The results indicated that there was a significant relationship between the management information characteristics and perceived environmental uncertainty. Two of the information characteristics-scope and timeliness-showed no significant relationship with decentralization. Aggregation of information, however, only showed a relationship with decentralization through the interaction of environmental uncertainty and decentralization. Implications of these findings for management and organizations are discussed.
The Critical Psychological States: An Underrepresented Component in Job Characteristics Model Research
Authors: Renn Robert W. , Vandenberg Robert J.
Published: November 2010

The mediating role of the critical psychological states (CPS) in the job characteristics model was examined in two studies. Using Baron and Kenny’s (1986) approach for examining mediation hypotheses, results from Study 1: (1) supported the hypothesized linkages between the core job dimensions and the CPS, and between the CPS and attitudinal outcomes; (2) provided no support for the hypothesis that all three CPS must be experienced to maximize internal work motivation; (3) supported the present authors’ hypothesis that the CPS would explain significant amounts of outcome variance beyond the core job dimensions; and (4) supported the present authors' hypothesis that the CPS are partial rather than complete mediator variables. Using causal modeling analyst and another sample, results from Study 2 provided the strongest support for a job characteristics model that allowed the core job dimensions to have direct and indirect effects on personal and work outcomes, further supporting the Study 1 finding that the CPS were partial mediator variables. The general discussion centered on the implications the present findings have for future job characteristics model research.
Tenure in Office of Big City Mayors
Authors: McNitt Andrew Douglas
Published: November 2010

In this study of tenure in office, tenure is measured by both the number of years and the number of terms served by 848 mayors of nineteen major American cities who held office between 1820 and 1995. An examination of this data finds that mayoral tenure has increased substantially when measured by the years served but only marginally when measured by the number of terms served. A multivariate analysis of mayors serving between 1853 and 1995 supports Fiorina’s contention that performance in office is related to electoral success. In particular, mayors who physically develop their cities, improve law enforcement, and provide social services serve longer in office.
Competing and Cooperating across State Borders in Economic Development
Authors: Lombard John R. , Morris John C.
Published: November 2010

This essay discusses the evolution of cross-border cooperation in local and state government in the contentious and competitive arena of economic development. Drawing on literatures from economic development and public administration, the authors highlight current issues and conflicts in cross-border cooperation drawing on several cases of successful ventures. In particular, they suggest that state and local governments adopt a new frame for understanding and evaluating cross-border cooperation as economic development “coopertition.” The logic of coopertition in economic development is that while a particular unit of government may not secure a specific economic development project, the odds of securing any project are increased if that government becomes more competitive by cooperating with other governments. Coopertition is thus the result of a need to cooperate to be more competitive.
A Behemoth in India
Authors: Matusitz Jonathan , Reyers Anne
Published: November 2010

The global retailing giant Walmart’s entry into India since 2009 is analysed in this article within the applied theoretical framework of glocalisation rather than simply globalisation. In light of glocalisation theory, the article suggests that globalising a product, brand, idea or service has more chances of success in a local market when it is targeted and adjusted specifically to the respective local value systems and thus becomes a glocalised enterprise. Globalisation is shown to be more than just a monolithic occurrence or simply an uncontested homogenising energy forcing local cultures to adopt the norms, practices and values of the global market place. It does not eradicate local cultures, but effects changes that create new glocalised hybridities with enormous economic implications not only for Walmart, but also for the Indian retail economy generally.
The Pious Self is a Jewel in Itself
Authors: Ansari Usamah Yasin
Published: November 2010

This article historically situates Ashraf Ali Thanvi’s Bahishti Zewar ( Heavenly Ornaments) as a manual for the production of pious dispositions. Written in 1905 for Muslim women in north India, this Urdu text teaches women how to train themselves to be pious and provides an ideal picture of the well-formed woman, self-reflective of how her actions correspond to the Divine will. Brought up as a Muslim, she has already been socialised into subordination to this will. Becoming self-reflective, linked to a critical rite of passage of an individual’s life, involves more regulated, arduous and deliberate reiterative work on the self. Without advocating that women should be managed through religious idiom, the analysis presented here challenges euro-centric perceptions of modernity and tradition and proposes that we need to think through more carefully what kind of agency is actually involved in consolidating the Muslim subject who submits to Divine will in a framework of ‘ shariatic modernity’. This discussion carries immense relevance for current debates about how Muslim women may address the challenges of living in the West.
Pandemic Flu Planning: An Overview
Authors: Schartung Charles T. , Moulder Nathan , Bruer Will , Simpson David M.
Published: November 2010

This review outlines the extant literature on pandemic flu planning including previous public health and planning studies/reports, the state of ongoing planning and public health efforts, and identified gaps in those efforts. We found varying levels of response both nationally and internationally. The planning and public health literatures frame the problem as a public health issue, largely addressed by public health professionals and agencies at the state level. We posit that planners and planning bodies have an important coordinative role in prioritizing/allocating resources and in the facilitation of feedback mechanisms for improving the planning for and mitigation of outbreaks.
Commentary on ‘Resveratrol commonly displays hormesis: Occurrence and biomedical significance’ by Calabrese et al
Authors: Das Dipak K
Published: November 2010

Resveratrol, a grape skin and red wine-derived polyphenolic phytoalexin, exhibits hormetic action delivering numerous health benefits at lower doses while being detrimental at higher doses. Epidemiologic and clinical trials need to be based on the clear understanding of hormetic health benefits of resveratrol
Commentary on Resveratrol and Hormesis: Resveratrol—a hormetic marvel in waiting?
Authors: Marques Francine Z , Morris Brian J
Published: November 2010

Hormesis is a phenomenon in which adaptive responses to low doses of otherwise-harmful factors (also called mild stressors) make cells and organisms more robust. In their review, Calabrese et al. provide evidence for resveratrol acting hormetically in different types of human cell lines. The effects of resveratrol represent a ‘two-edged sword’ in that it has contrasting effects at low and high doses in healthy and cancerogenous cells. What demarcates a low and a high dose needs to be clarified. Concentrations tested in cell cultures, moreover, may not be relevant to whole organisms. And data from animal models need not apply to humans. Co-morbidities should also be considered. More research is needed to understand the action of resveratrol on all cell types and conditions, and the optimum therapeutic concentration that applies to each of these. Future research needs to determine the dynamics of the effects of resveratrol in different subcellular compartments and the interactions of these. In addition, the interactions between resveratrol, environmental factors, other compounds and medications, diseases and the genetic background of the individual will need to be appreciated in order to gain a complete understanding of the hormetic response of resveratrol.
Dose response biology: The case of resveratrol
Authors: Calabrese Edward J , Mattson Mark P , Calabrese Vittorio
Published: November 2010

Resveratrol often displays hormesis-like biphasic dose responses. This occurs in a broad range of biological models and for numerous endpoints of biomedical interest and public health concern. Recognition of the widespread occurrence of the hormetic nature of many of the responses of resveratrol is important on multiple levels. It can help optimize study design protocols by investigators, create a dose-response framework for better addressing dose-related biological complexities and assist in the development of public health and medical guidance with respect to considerations for what is an optimal dose not just for an agent such as resveratrol, but also for the plethora of agents that also act via hormetic mechanisms.
Elective interdependence: Understanding individual agency and interpersonal relationships in Indian families
Authors: Tuli Mila , Chaudhary Nandita
Published: November 2010

Parents’ beliefs and ethnotheories about family life in general and childcare in particular contain explicit and implicit ideas about the manner in which children ought to be raised. Cultural scripts, family situations, and parents’ own beliefs and experiences have been known to guide parenting choices. Cultural practices in India have been deeply influenced by the textured history of external influence. In present times, increased mobility, changes in occupation, and global influences are exerting new pressures on the enduring character of the Indian family. This paper addresses the domain of parental beliefs about patterns of interactions within the family and their understanding of children’s agency. The underlying assumption is that parents in urban middle-class families will be focusing on issues of agency and autonomy for children on account of perceived changes in social expectations. The paper explores the mediations that adults report between the traditional expectations of conformity and persuasive thrust for autonomy when it comes to beliefs about and expectations of their children. The paper specifically addresses the beliefs of mothers with children 3—6 years old, living in New Delhi, India. ‘Elective interdependence’ is the term we have used to describe the deliberate fluctuation of self—other boundaries as mothers negotiate relationships with others for their children and for themselves. The dynamics of mothers’ beliefs indicate dialogicality in the manifestation of seemingly contradictory ideologies regarding interpersonal relationships and individual conduct.
Commentary: The complex construction of psychological identities in Palestine: Integrating narratives and life experiences
Authors: Silva Guimarães Danilo
Published: November 2010

Palestinian youth is challenged by multiple discourses in the process of constitution of its identity. This discursive multiplicity, characteristic of contemporary global societies, is confronted with personal life experiences, giving meaning to primarily nebulous affective impacts in the social environment. Starting from a semiotic—cultural perspective in cultural psychology one can establish a link between the notion of master narrative used by Hammack (2010) and the notion of myth—using the conception of ideology as a bridge that articulates both. Antinomies in the self-biographic narratives presented and discussed by Hammack (2010) support the master narrative of Palestinian identity and enter into interactions with other psychological identities of the interviewed youngsters, such as their religious tradition and secular education. Symbolic elements that are brought to the identity-making process by the diverse narratives are to be seen as resources for the comprehension of life experiences, demanding an integrative effort in the face of what is known and unknown in relation to alterity.
‘Hard times’ in Lithuania: Crisis and ‘discourses of discontent’ in post-communist society
Authors: Woolfson Charles
Published: November 2010

This article analyses the intersection of global recession with the underlying crisis of neo-liberalism in Baltic Lithuania, and the disappointment of expectations regarding the promised benefits of free market capitalism for the citizens of post-communist society. Drawing on an empirical analysis of Lithuania, a new European Union member state and former Soviet republic, the post-communist trajectory of neo-liberal economic and social development is critiqued. Global economic and financial crisis has resulted in a social and economic ‘shock’. It occurred in an environment already marked by disappointment, alienation and high outward migration. Through an analysis of ‘voice’ expressed in ‘discourses of discontent’, the article attempts to chart the impact of ‘hard times’. It predicts a new ‘exit’ in the form of a surge of outward migration resulting from the failures of ‘voice’, and the concerning possibility of ‘internal exit’.
Counselling people with Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease (CJD) and their families
Authors: Morris Clare
Published: November 2010

This article gives an account of the counselling service for people with Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease (CJD) at the National Prion Clinic which is based in the National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery in the UK and aims to provide information, advocacy and support from diagnosis through bereavement for people with a diagnosis of Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease (CJD) and their families.
Theoretical Study on the Electronic Configurations and Nature of Chemical Bonds of Dirhodium Tetraacetato Complexes [Rh2(CH3COO)4(L)2] (L = H2O, Free): Broken Symmetry Approach
Authors: Kataoka Yusuke , Kitagawa Yasutaka , Saito Toru , Nakanishi Yasuyuki , Matsui Toru , Sato Konomi , Miyazaki Yuhei , Kawakami Takashi , Okumura Mitsutaka , Mori Wasuke , Yamaguchi Kizashi
Published: November 2010

The electronic configurations and the nature of chemical bonds of the classical lantern-type dinuclear rhodium(II) tetraacetato complexes [Rh2(CH3COO)4(L)2] (L = H2O, free) have been carefully investigated with broken symmetry (BS) Hartree–Fock (HF), BS density functional theory (DFT), and BS hybrid DFT (HDFT) methods. Several electronic configurations have been proposed for the ground states of the [Rh2(RCOO)4(H2O)2] complexes. In this study, we concluded that those different electronic configurations originate from the position of the axial H2Os, and not along the Rh–Rh length. The BS(U)B3LYP calculation indicates that the stability of the σ and δ orbitals changed when the Rh–OH2 length was 2.35 Å. The natural orbital (NO) analyses and chemical indices clearly indicate that there is a σ-type single bond between the Rh ions, and that the axial H2Os does not affect the overlap.
Facile One-Step Synthesis of Double-Shelled CeO2 Hollow Spheres and Their Optical and Catalytic Properties
Authors: Ma Jingjing , Qian Kun , Huang Weixing , Zhu Yanhua , Yang Qing
Published: November 2010

Double-shelled CeO2 hollow microspheres (4–5 µm) were synthesized through a facile one-step hydrothermal treatment of Ce(NO3)3·6H2O in the presence of citric acid and hexamethylenetetramine (HMTA), and scanning and transmission electron microscopies demonstrated the samples are hollow spheres with litchi-like surfaces. The assembly of the hollow spheres was contributed to coordination effect of additives employed in the reaction system and the ripening growth in the process. Meanwhile, two other spherical structures including polyhedron-constituted and porous microspheres assembled with nanocrystals were also synthesized by varying the experimental parameters in the synthetic route. The UV–vis spectroscopic investigation demonstrated that the absorption edge of the three samples was blue shifted accordingly with their constituted primary crystallite sizes. In addition, investigation showed that the catalytic activities for CO oxidation of the three spheres types were considerably higher than those of commercial CeO2 powders, and their activities were in the order of porous > litchi-like double-shelled hollow > polyhedron-constituted, consistent with their BET surface area of 33, 22, and 10 m2 g−1. Specially, the litchi-like double-shelled hollow spheres showed much better catalytic properties per unit weight catalyst.
Enhancement in Cracking Activity of USY Zeolites Treated with Ammonium Nitrate Solution
Authors: Tomiyama Takuya , Okumura Kazu , Niwa Miki
Published: November 2010

USY zeolites prepared by steam treatment of NH4-Y zeolites were treated with ammonium nitrate solutions. Treatment with ammonium nitrate solutions resulted in a remarkable enhancement in the octane-cracking activity of the USY zeolites. This enhancement in the octane-cracking activity was attributed to the increase in the amount of acid sites and the enhancement of the acid strength, as observed in the ammonia IRMS–TPD method.
Preparation and Properties of a Hollow Fiber Consisting Mainly of Natural Mordenite
Authors: Nagase Takako , Abe Chie , Kiyozumi Yoshimichi , Hasegawa Yasuhisa , Hanaoka Takaaki , Mizukami Fujio
Published: November 2010

A hollow fiber consisting mainly of a natural mordenite was spun for the first time by mixing natural mordenite with polysulfone using dry–wet spinning. The obtained hollow fiber was stable and flexible in water. The dried fiber has a pore distribution of the microfiltration membrane. The fiber can be used as a substrate for a zeolite membrane for pervaporation.
Submillimeter-scale Graphene Patterning through Ink-jet Printing of Graphene Oxide Ink
Authors: Jo Yong Min , Yoon Seyoung , Lee Ji-Hoon , Park Sung-Jun , Kim Sung Ryong , In Insik
Published: November 2010

Patterning of reduced graphene is successfully demonstrated through ink-jet printing of graphene oxide (GO) ink and subsequent reduction with hydrazine vapor in submillimeter scale. GO plate size is the most critical parameter for the success of facile ink-jet printing of GO ink. Prepared graphene lines show conductivity of 1.1 S m−1, which is a fifth of typical conductivity of graphene film, which might result from decreased percolation of graphene plates in ink-jet printing.
Synthesis and Solid-state Optical Properties of 2,3-Dialkyl- and 2,3,8,9-Tetraalkyltetracenes
Authors: Kitamura Chitoshi , Ohara Takuya , Yoneda Akio , Kawase Takeshi , Kobayashi Takashi , Naito Hiroyoshi
Published: November 2010

We prepared 2,3-dialkyl- and 2,3,8,9-tetraalkyltetracenes by way of Diels–Alder reactions between 1,4-anthraquinones and 3,4-dialkylthiophene-1,1-dioxides and obtained mainly orange and yellow solids, respectively. The differences in optical properties in the solid state were probably due to different intermolecular interactions.
Cystatin C is a reliable marker for estimation of glomerular filtration rate in renal transplantation: validation of a new turbidimetric assay using monospecific sheep antibodies
Authors: Bargnoux Anne-Sophie , Cavalier Etienne , Cristol Jean-Paul , Simon Noémie , Dupuy Anne-Marie , Garrigue Valérie , Badiou Stéphanie , Delanaye Pierre , Mourad Georges
Published: November 2010

Background: The potential use of cystatin C was recently assessed in kidney transplantation. A new particle-enhanced turbidimetric immunoassay (PETIA) that uses sheep antibodies (Binding Site human cystatin C immunoassay) has been developed. Analytical performance of this new assay was evaluated. Clinical relevance was determined by comparison with a reference method in a cohort of kidney transplant patients.

Methods: First, the analytical performance of the Binding Site cystatin C kit was tested on SPAPLUS
® and Hitachi® analyzers. Second, a comparison study was performed using SPAPLUS
® analyzer against two other cystatin C methods (the Siemens-PENIA method on BNII® and the Dako-PETIA application on Olympus AU640®). Third, the glomerular filtration rate (GFR) was estimated using several predictive cystatin C- and creatinine-based equations and compared to GFR measured by an isotopic method (99mTc-DTPA). These predictive algorithms were analyzed with respect to bias, precision and accuracy.

Results: Total intra-assay and inter-assay coefficients of variation were below 5%. Values obtained with the SPAPLUS
® correlated with the Siemens-PENIA and the Dako-PETIA methods. The creatinine and cystatin C-based equation allowed reliable assessment of GFR in our population of renal transplantation.

Conclusions: The use of algorithms based on cystatin C and creatinine could provide a reliable estimate of GFR in kidney transplantation.
Linezolid interaction with serotonin reuptake inhibitors: report of two cases and incidence assessment
Authors: Go Amy C. , Golightly Larry K. , Barber Gerard R. , Barron Michelle A.
Published: November 2010

Background: Prompted by the advent of potentially life-threatening neuromuscular symptoms following initiation of linezolid therapy in two patients receiving treatment with a serotonin reuptake inhibitor antidepressant, an evaluation was conducted to determine the incidence and characteristics of symptomatic serotonin toxicity among hospitalized patients receiving combined treatment with these medications.

Methods: Patients admitted between January 1, 2006 and August 30, 2008 who received linezolid concurrently with citalopram or escitalopram were identified and their medical records were examined. Patients were judged to have serotonin toxicity if their records contained documentation of clinical evidence adequate to fulfill requisites of the Hunter Serotonin Toxicity Criteria. Severity of serotonin-related symptoms was graded according to previously established criteria.

Results: During the period of observation, 24 patients received concurrent treatment with linezolid and citalopram or escitalopram. Of these, one patient (4%) treated with citalopram met evidentiary requirements for diagnosis of serotonin toxicity. The severity of symptoms in this patient was graded as mild. No evidence of serious harm related to a possible drug interaction was identified.

Conclusions: Severe symptoms associated with serotonin toxicity were shown to be uncommon in patients receiving linezolid and selected serotonin reuptake inhibitors. Nonetheless, serious interaction-related toxicity has been observed at our institution and reported in detail by others. Accordingly, concurrent use of these medications is categorized as contraindicated. Alternative antimicrobial therapy should be instituted in most cases. If no suitable alternative is available, recipient patients should be hospitalized for expectant observation and rigorous monitoring.
Prediction of drug clearance in children 3 months and younger: an allometric approach
Authors: Mahmood Iftekhar
Published: November 2010

Background: Sometimes it might not be possible to conduct a pharmacokinetic (PK) study in neonates and infants. Under these circumstances, one would like to predict PK parameters in this age group. Because drug clearance is the most important PK parameter, the objective of this study was to describe an allometric method to predict drug clearance in children ≤3 months.

Methods: In total, 43 drugs (107 observations) were randomly selected for this study. The age of the children ranged from 0 to 1 year. Children were divided into two groups: ≤3 months and ≥3 months to 1 year. Drug clearance (CL) in children was predicted using the following equation: CL in the child=adult CL×(weight of the child/70)0.75 or 1.0 or 1.2.

Results: The results of the study indicated that the exponent 1.2 performs better in the prediction of drug clearance than exponent 1.0 or 0.75 for children ≤3 months. By contrast, exponent 1.0 provided better prediction for children ≥3 months to 1 year than exponent 1.2. Exponent 0.75 provided the worst results leading to substantial prediction error in children 0–1 year (in many instances more than 1000% prediction error).

Conclusions: Overall, it appears that exponent 1.2 is the best method out of three methods for reasonably accurate prediction of drug clearance in children ≤3 months old. However, exponent 1.2 will underpredict drug clearance in children older than 3 months. The suggested approach could be used to support the choice of the initial dose in clinical trials for children ≤3 months old.
Measurements of Thermal Conduction in Partially Saturated Specimens Using the Transient Hot-Disk Technique
Authors: Suleiman Bashir M.
Published: November 2010

The hot-disk, also known as the transient plane source technique, is used to measure the thermal conductivity of construction materials. The measurements were done at room temperature and under both dry and partially wet conditions. The technique is a transient one, which uses a flat thin sensor (hot-disk), and it has a dual advantage of short measuring time and low temperature rise (around 1°) across the specimen. This advantage prevents a non-uniform moisture distribution that may arise when the temperature difference across a wet test specimen is maintained for a relatively long time. In addition, the flat thin shape of the hot-disk substantially reduces the contact resistance between the specimen and the sensor. More details about this technique will be discussed. The materials consisted of one specimen of common (sand and cement) plaster, one specimen of ground soft soil, and two specimens of soft and hard bricks. A remarkable increase in the mean conductivity values due to the presence of water has been observed, particularly in the soft specimens. The increase is attributed to the increase in water content within the micro-voids (cavities) of the specimens. In other words, the higher the moisture content is, the greater the thermal conductivity will be.
Aus der Forschung zum Industrieprodukt: Die Entwicklung des KUKA Leichtbauroboters
Authors: Bischoff Rainer , Kurth Johannes , Schreiber Günter , Koeppe Ralf , Stemmer Andreas , Albu-Schäffer Alin , Eiberger Oliver , Beyer Alexander , Grunwald Gerhard , Hirzinger Gerd
Published: November 2010

Forschungsergebnisse in marktfähige Produkte zu verwandeln erfordert ein beträchtliches Maß an Ausdauer und starkes Unternehmertum. Der KUKA Leichtbauroboter (LBR) ist das jüngste Ergebnis einer langjährigen Forschungs- und Entwicklungskooperation zwischen der KUKA Roboter GmbH in Augsburg und dem Institut für Robotik und Mechatronik des DLR in Oberpfaffenhofen. Dieser Beitrag schildert den Weg der Produktentstehung, den innovativen Charakter des LBR und zeigt erste Anwendungsbeispiele.
Novos valores de referência para pressões respiratórias máximas na população brasileira
Authors: Costa Dirceu , Gonçalves Helena Amaral , Lima Luciana Peraro de , Ike Daniela , Cancelliero Karina Maria , Montebelo Maria Imaculada de Lima
Published: November 2010

OBJETIVO: Comparar PImáx e PEmáx medidas em indivíduos saudáveis com os valores previstos utilizando-se as equações propostas em outro estudo e, se necessário, sugerir novas equações para PImáx e PEmáx para a população brasileira. MÉTODOS: Participaram do estudo 60 homens e 60 mulheres saudáveis com idades entre 20 e 80 anos (20 indivíduos por faixa etária de 10 anos). As pressões respiratórias máximas foram determinadas segundo um protocolo padronizado. RESULTADOS: Os valores medidos de PImáx foram significativamente menores que aqueles previstos tanto para homens (31%) e mulheres (24%). Não houve diferenças significativas entre a PEmáx medida e prevista nos dois gêneros. A idade provou ser a variável com melhor poder preditivo para PImáx e PEmáx nos dois gêneros. Novas equações foram propostas. CONCLUSÕES: As equações propostas no estudo prévio não foram capazes de predizer PImáx e PEmáx de todos os indivíduos de nossa amostra. Portanto, os resultados deste estudo podem facilitar a predição da força muscular respiratória de adultos saudáveis no Brasil. Novos estudos, com indivíduos de diferentes regiões do país, poderão contribuir para o desenvolvimento de melhores tabelas ou equações para as pressões respiratórias máximas na população brasileira.
Comparison of Bivalirudin and Argatroban for the Management of Heparin‐Induced Thrombocytopenia
Authors: Skrupky Lee P. , Smith Jennifer R. , Deal Eli N. , Arnold Heather , Hollands James M. , Martinez Emily J. , Micek Scott T.
Published: November 2010

Study Objectives. To compare the effectiveness of bivalirudin and argatroban in achieving anticoagulation goals and to compare clinical outcomes assessing the safety and efficacy in patients with known or suspected heparin‐induced thrombocytopenia (HIT).

Design. Single‐center, retrospective analysis.

Setting. Large tertiary care academic medical center.

Patients. A total of 138 adults who received either bivalirudin (92 patients) or argatroban (46 patients) for at least 24 hours for known or suspected HIT between January 2007 and July 2008.

Measurements and Main Results. Data regarding demographics, direct thrombin inhibitor (DTI) dosing and monitoring, and related clinical outcomes were collected; statistical analysis was performed to compare results for patients receiving bivalirudin versus those receiving argatroban. Duration of DTI use ranged from 24–658 hours. At the time of DTI initiation, 108 patients (78%) were in an intensive care unit, with the highest proportion (61/138 [44%]) in the cardiothoracic surgery intensive care unit. The median (interquartile range [IQR]) DTI doses at the time of first reaching therapeutic goal were bivalirudin 0.06 mg/kg/hour (0.04–0.08 mg/kg/hr) and argatroban 1.0 μg/kg/minute (0.5–2.0 μg/kg/min). The median percentage of activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) values within therapeutic range while patients were receiving DTI therapy were similar for bivalirudin and argatroban (75% and 70%, respectively, p=0.238). A greater percentage of aPTT values were supratherapeutic with argatroban versus bivalirudin treatment (18% vs 8%, p=0.046). Median time to therapeutic goal was similar for bivalirudin (5.50 hrs [IQR 4–14.5 hrs]) and argatroban (5.75 hrs [IQR 3–17.7 hrs], p=0.499). New thromboembolic events occurred in seven patients (8%) receiving bivalirudin and two (4%) receiving argatroban (p=0.718). Bleeding events occurred at similar rates in both groups (9% for bivalirudin vs 11% for argatroban, p>0.999).

Conclusions. Bivalirudin and argatroban were similar in achieving and maintaining therapeutic anticoagulation goals, clinical outcomes, and safety. This study suggests that bivalirudin represents an alternative in the management of HIT, but prospective studies are needed.
Presence of Adequate Intravitreal Concentrations of Daptomycin After Systemic Intravenous Administration in a Patient with Endogenous Endophthalmitis
Authors: Sheridan Kathleen R. , Potoski Brian A. , Shields Ryan K. , Nau Gerard J.
Published: November 2010

Study Objective. To determine whether daptomycin has the potential to be an effective alternative treatment to vancomycin for methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) endogenous endophthalmitis by measuring daptomycin penetration into the vitreous humor.

Design. Laboratory analysis of serum and intravitreal fluids to quantify the ratio between vitreous humor and serum daptomycin concentrations.

Setting. Critical care unit in a university‐affiliated tertiary care medical center.

Patient. A 53‐year‐old woman treated with intravenous daptomycin for MRSA bacteremia, endophthalmitis, and pericarditis.

Measurements and Main Results. After the first dose of intravenous daptomycin 10 mg/kg was administered to the patient, serum and intravitreal fluids were analyzed by using high‐performance liquid chromatography to determine daptomycin concentrations; pericardial fluid was also analyzed to determine whether adequate levels were present in actively infected tissue. A vitreous concentration of approximately 28% of the serum concentration was achieved. Although therapeutic efficacy could not be assessed in the absence of intraocular cultures, the presence of adequate drug concentrations in the vitreous humor is promising. Ophthalmic infections caused by resistant isolates continue to increase, and effective alternatives to vancomycin, the standard of care, are needed. For endogenous endophthalmitis, these alternative therapies will need to reach therapeutic concentrations in the vitreous humor and adequately penetrate the terminal source of infection. In this analysis, the intravitreal concentration of daptomycin was comparable to concentrations previously reported with vancomycin; thus daptomcyin may be an attractive option when vancomycin therapy fails or is contraindicated. To our knowledge, this is the first report of intravitreal daptomycin concentrations measured in a patient receiving intravenous daptomycin.

Conclusion. Adequate concentrations of daptomycin were achieved in the vitreous fluid after a single systemic dose of the drug. Daptomycin may be an effective alternative to vancomycin in patients with ophthalmic infections. Future clinical studies comparing daptomycin with vancomycin in this clinical setting are warranted.
Resurgence of Colistin: A Review of Resistance, Toxicity, Pharmacodynamics, and Dosing
Authors: Lim Lauren M. , Ly Neang , Anderson Dana , Yang Jenny C. , Macander Laurie , Jarkowski Anthony , Forrest Alan , Bulitta Jurgen B. , Tsuji Brian T.
Published: November 2010

Colistin is a polymyxin antibiotic that was discovered in the late 1940s for the treatment of gram‐negative infections. After several years of clinical use, its popularity diminished because of reports of significant nephrotoxicity and neurotoxicity. Recently, the antibiotic has resurfaced as a last‐line treatment option for multidrug‐resistant organisms such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Acinetobacter baumannii, and Klebsiella pneumoniae. The need for antibiotics with coverage of these gram‐negative pathogens is critical because of their high morbidity and mortality, making colistin a very important treatment option. Unfortunately, however, resistance to colistin has been documented among all three of these organisms in case reports. Although the exact mechanism causing colistin resistance has not been defined, it is hypothesized that the PmrA‐PmrB and PhoP‐PhoQ genetic regulatory systems may play a role. Colistin dosages must be optimized, as colistin is a last‐line treatment option; in addition, suboptimal doses have been linked to the development of resistance. The lack of pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic studies and no universal harmonization of dose units, however, have made it difficult to derive optimal dosing regimens and specific dosing guidelines for colistin. In critically ill patients who may have multiorgan failure, renal insufficiency may alter colistin pharmacokinetics. Therefore, dosage alterations in this patient population are imperative to achieve maximal efficacy and minimal toxicity. With regard to colistin toxicity, most studies show that nephrotoxicity is reversible and less frequent than once thought, and neurotoxicity is rare. Further research is needed to fully understand the impact that the two regulatory systems have on resistance, as well as the dosages of colistin needed to inhibit and overcome these developing patterns.