bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Long-term sleep habits and the risk of breast cancer among Chinese women: a case–control study
Authors: Yang Wanshui , Shi Yingfang , Ke Xiumei , Sun Haina , Guo Jianchao , Wang Xin
Published: September 2018

Previous observational studies have inconsistently suggested that poor sleep is a novel risk factor for breast cancer (BC). However, these studies mainly focused on sleep duration; other sleep domains were rarely reported. The aim of this study was to evaluate the association of a broad range of sleep domains with the risk of BC incidence. We used a community-based 1 : 1 individual matched case–control design that included 401 female patients with incident BC and 401 age-matched and area-matched female controls in Jiujiang, China. Long-term sleep habits were assessed comprehensively using a validated 17-item Sleep Factors Questionnaire. Adjusted odds ratios (aORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated using conditional logistic regression. Light exposure at night (highest vs. lowest level, aOR=1.19, 95% CI: 1.06–2.68), habitual timing of sleep (after 12 a.m. midnight vs. before 22 p.m., aOR=1.12, 95% CI: 1.03–2.62), night/shift work (yes vs. no, aOR=1.38, 95% CI: 1.04–2.71), and frequency of night-time wakings (>2 per night vs. never, aOR=1.21, 95% CI: 1.10–2.96) were associated with an increased risk of BC after mutually adjusting for other sleep parameters. These positive associations remained irrespective of menopausal status and tumor estrogen receptor status. There was no association between sleep duration, sleep quality, sleep medication use, insomnia frequency, daytime nap, and the risk of BC. Our results indicate that sleep problems including light exposure at night, night/shift work, late sleeping, and frequent night waking could increase the risk of BC development, independent of other sleep factors.
Hypopigmented Interface T-Cell Dyscrasia and Hypopigmented Mycosis Fungoides: A Comparative Study
Authors: Youssef Randa , Mahgoub Doaa , Zeid Ola A. , Abdel-Halim Dalia M. , El-Hawary Marwa , Hussein Marwa F. , Morcos Mary A. , Aboelfadl Dalia M. , Abdelkader Heba A. , Abdel-Galeil Yosra , Abdel-Halim Mona R. E.
Published: September 2018

Hypopigmented interface T-cell dyscrasia (HITCD) is a distinct form of lymphoid dyscrasia that may progress to hypopigmented mycosis fungoides (HMF). We compared both diseases as regards their CD4/CD8 phenotype and expression of granzyme B and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and how these are affected by narrow-band UVB (nb-UVB). The study included 11 patients with HITCD and 9 patients with HMF. They received nb-UVB thrice weekly until complete repigmentation or a maximum of 48 sessions. Pretreatment and posttreatment biopsies were stained using anti CD4, CD8, TNF-α, and granzyme B monoclonal antibodies. Epidermal lymphocytes were CD8 predominant in 54.5% and 66.7% of HITCD and HMF cases, respectively, whereas dermal lymphocytes were CD4 predominant in 63.6% and 66.7%, respectively. Significantly, more dermal infiltrate was encountered in HMF (P = 0.041). In both diseases, granzyme B was only expressed in the dermis, whereas TNF-α was expressed both in the epidermis and dermis. No difference existed as regards the number of sessions needed to achieve repigmentation or cumulative nb-UVB dose reached at end of study. (P > 0.05). Narrow-band UVB significantly reduced only the epidermal lymphocytes in both diseases (P ≤ 0.05) with their complete disappearance in 8 (72.7%) HITCD and 6 (66.7%) HMF cases. In both diseases, nb-UVB did not affect granzyme B or TNF-α expression (P > 0.05). In conclusion, both diseases share the same phenotype, with HITCD being a milder form of T-cell dysfunction. In both diseases, epidermal lymphocytes are mainly CD8+-exhausted cells lacking cytotoxicity, whereas dermal cells are mostly reactive cells exerting antitumor cytotoxicity. Tumor necrosis factor-alpha mediates hypopigmentation in both diseases and prevents disease progression. Repigmentation after nb-UVB in both diseases occurs before and independently from disappearance of the dermal infiltrate.
Laser Ablation of the Recipient Area With Platelet-Rich Plasma–Enriched Epidermal Suspension Transplant in Vitiligo Surgery: A Pilot Study
Authors: Garg Suruchi , Dosapaty Namrata , Arora Amanjot Kaur
Published: September 2018

BACKGROUND

Noncultured epidermal cell suspension transplantation is a very popular surgical modality for treating vitiligo. However, the procedure can be modified to improve results.

OBJECTIVE

To study the extent of repigmentation with noncultured trypsinized fragmented epidermal suspension using platelet-rich plasma (PRP) as a suspending agent and pixel erbium yttrium aluminium garnet laser for ablation of recipient area in patients with stable vitiligo.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Autologous noncultured tiny epidermal fragments suspended in PRP were grafted on superficially pixel erbium YAG laser-ablated vitiligo lesions in 10 patients. The repigmentation was evaluated over a period of 6 months using a digital image analysis system.

RESULTS

Repigmentation was observed as early as 2 weeks after the treatment. Of 20 lesions, 12 (60%) showed excellent response; of which 10 lesions (50%) showed complete repigmentation in 8 weeks only. There were no milia or keloid formation, donor-site scarring, stuck on appearance at recipient site or infection.

CONCLUSION

This study indicates that PRP-enriched epidermal suspension transplant (LA-PEEST) has the potential to improve the rate of healing and repigmentation in vitiligo patches. Further investigations and larger controlled trials are required to establish this technique as a rapid surgical method to restore pigmentation.
Dopamine and reward: a view from the prefrontal cortex
Authors: Chau Bolton K.H. , Jarvis Huw , Law Chun-Kit , Chong Trevor T.-J.
Published: September 2018

The prefrontal cortex (PFC) is a heterogeneous area that is critical to reward-based decision-making. In particular, the dorsal anterior cingulate cortex, ventromedial PFC and orbitofrontal cortex are frequently implicated in different aspects of choice behaviour. These regions receive projections from midbrain dopamine (DA) neurons and, in turn, project to other key dopaminergic regions such as the striatum. However, our current understanding of the role of DA in reward-based processes is based mainly on studies of midbrain dopaminergic neurons and striatal DA release from nonhuman animal models. An important gap in the literature surrounds the precise functions of DA release in the PFC, particularly in humans. A priority for future research will be to integrate, both computationally and biologically, the seemingly disparate value representations across different nodes within the reward-processing network. Such models should aim to define the functional interactions between the PFC and basal ganglia, through which dopaminergic neurotransmission guides reward-based behaviour.
Characterizing, Assessing, and Treating Cognitive Dysfunction in Major Depressive Disorder
Authors: McIntyre Roger S. , Lee Yena , Carmona Nicole E. , Subramaniapillai Mehala , Cha Danielle S. , Lee JungGoo , Lee Jae-Hon , Alageel Asem , Rodrigues Nelson B. , Park Caroline , Ragguett Renee-Marie , Rosenblat Joshua E. , Almatham Fahad , Pan Zihang , Rong Carola , Mansur Rodrigo B.
Published: September 2018

Learning objectives

After participating in this activity, learners should be better able to:

• Characterize cognitive dysfunction in patients with major depressive disorder.

• Evaluate approaches to treating cognitive dysfunction in patients with major depressive disorder.

Cognitive dysfunction is a core psychopathological domain in major depressive disorder (MDD) and is no longer considered to be a pseudo-specific phenomenon. Cognitive dysfunction in MDD is a principal determinant of patient-reported outcomes, which, hitherto, have been insufficiently targeted with existing multimodal treatments for MDD. The neural structures and substructures subserving cognitive function in MDD overlap with, yet are discrete from, those subserving emotion processing and affect regulation. Several modifiable factors influence the presence and extent of cognitive dysfunction in MDD, including clinical features (e.g., episode frequency and illness duration), comorbidity (e.g., obesity and diabetes), and iatrogenic artefact. Screening and measurement tools that comport with the clinical ecosystem are available to detect and measure cognitive function in MDD. Notwithstanding the availability of select antidepressants capable of exerting procognitive effects, most have not been sufficiently studied or rigorously evaluated. Promising pharmacological avenues, as well as psychosocial, behavioral, chronotherapeutic, and complementary alternative approaches, are currently being investigated.
Unique Features of the INESSS-ONF Rehabilitation Guidelines for Moderate to Severe Traumatic Brain Injury: Responding to Users' Needs
Authors: Bayley Mark Theodore , Lamontagne Marie-Eve , Kua Ailene , Marshall Shawn , Marier-Deschênes Pascale , Allaire Anne-Sophie , Kagan Corinne , Truchon Catherine , Janzen Shannon , Teasell Robert , Swaine Bonnie
Published: September 2018

Objective:

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) clinical practice guidelines are a potential solution to rapidly expanding literature. The project objective was to convene experts to develop a unique set of TBI rehabilitation recommendations incorporating users' priorities for format and implementation tools including indicators of adherence.

Methods:

The Guidelines Adaptation & Development Cycle informed recommendation development. Published TBI recommendations were identified and tabulated. Experts convened to adapt or, where appropriate, develop new evidence-based recommendations. These draft recommendations were validated by systematically reviewing relevant literature. Surveys of experts and target users were triangulated with strength of evidence to identify priority topics.

Results:

The final recommendation set included a rationale, implementation tools (algorithms/adherence indicators), key process indicators, and evidence summaries, and were divided in 2 sections: Section I: Components of the Optimal TBI Rehabilitation System (71 recommendations) and Section II: Assessment and Rehabilitation of Brain Injury Sequelae (195 recommendations). The recommendations address top priorities for the TBI rehabilitation system: (1) intensity/frequency of interventions; (2) rehabilitation models; (3) duration of interventions; and (4) continuity-of-care mechanisms. Key sequelae addressed (1) behavioral disorders; (2) cognitive dysfunction; (3) fatigue and sleep disturbances; and (4) mental health.

Conclusion:

This TBI rehabilitation guideline used a robust development process to address users' priorities.
Prediction of Surgical Outcome After Trabeculectomy for Neovascular Glaucoma With Anterior-segment Optical Coherence Tomography
Authors: Kokubun Taiki , Tsuda Satoru , Kunikata Hiroshi , Himori Noriko , Yokoyama Yu , Omodaka Kazuko , Kunimatsu-Sanuki Shiho , Nakazawa Toru
Published: September 2018

Purpose:

To determine the potential of anterior-segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT) to predict posttrabeculectomy outcomes in neovascular glaucoma (NVG).

Patients and Methods:

We recruited 45 eyes of 40 NVG patients who underwent trabeculectomy. The patients were divided into success and failure groups based on the posttrabeculectomy outcome after 12 months. AS-OCT findings were compared in the success and failure groups at 1 and 2 weeks and 1, 3, 6, and 12 months. We also analyzed early posttrabeculectomy bleb parameters with multiple logistic regression, stepwise multiple regression, and the receiver operating characteristic curve to evaluate the power of these parameters to predict long-term outcomes.

Results:

Intraocular pressure at 6 and 12 months was lower in the success group than the failure group (P<0.0016=0.0048). Reflectivity of the bleb wall was higher in the failure group than the success group throughout the study (all: P<0.0016). Age and reflectivity of the bleb wall at 1 week were risk factors for failure with odds ratios for failure of 0.91 and 1.67. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve for reflectivity of the bleb wall at 1 week was 0.943 with the cutoff set at 128.9 (sensitivity: 85.7%; specificity: 100.0%). Stepwise multiple regression analysis showed that reflectivity of the bleb wall at 1 week independently indicated the bleb survival period (β=−0.84; P<0.001).

Conclusions:

AS-OCT-measured reflectivity of the bleb wall, measured at 1 week of trabeculectomy for NVG, might be able to predict of the final status of the bleb.
Perceptions of Infusion Pump Alarms
Authors: Vitoux Rachel R. , Schuster Catherine , Glover Kevin R.
Published: September 2018

Between 1983 and 2011, equipment-related alarms in critical care have increased from 6 to 40 different alarm types. As nurses become overwhelmed, distracted, or desensitized by alarm noise, they may miss critical alarms that could result in patient harm. The findings of an infusion pump alarm survey indicated that nurses overwhelmingly agree that infusion pump nuisance alarms occur frequently and disrupt patient care. But nurses' perceptions of pump alarms are different from those previously reported for clinical alarms in general. It may not be appropriate to broadly apply general alarm management recommendations to infusion pump alarms at this time.
Self-efficacy and Stress Among Informal Caregivers of Individuals at End of Life
Authors: Hampton Michelle M. , Newcomb Patricia
Published: September 2018

Researchers have established associations between the stressors of providing informal care and caregiver health risks. Despite the negative consequences, researchers have identified the existence of protective factors that have the potential to buffer or prevent stress. The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship between self-efficacy and stress in adult informal caregivers providing end-of-life care. This cross-sectional, associational study analyzed data from questionnaires completed by adult informal caregivers providing end-of-life care for an adult in North Texas. Questionnaires provided measures of self-efficacy, stress, and caregiver perceived health. Findings indicated caregiver self-efficacy globally had a significant correlation with stress, whereas caregivers’ confidence in caring for themselves had a significant negative relationship with perceived stress. Specifically, study findings indicate caregivers with greater confidence in managing demands of caregiving have lower levels of stress, and caregivers with greater confidence in caring for themselves, specifically, have lower levels of perceived stress. Study findings highlight the importance of caregivers’ self-care needs. Health care practitioners should recognize and intervene to support caregivers’ self-care needs in order to prevent additional, needless health problems in this population.
Diagnostic and Predictive Immunohistochemistry for Non–Small Cell Lung Carcinomas
Authors: Hung Yin P. , Sholl Lynette M.
Published: September 2018

Non–small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC) accounts for significant morbidity and mortality worldwide, with most patients diagnosed at advanced stages and managed increasingly with targeted therapies and immunotherapy. In this review, we discuss diagnostic and predictive immunohistochemical markers in NSCLC, one of the most common tumors encountered in surgical pathology. We highlight 2 emerging diagnostic markers: nuclear protein in testis (NUT) for NUT carcinoma; SMARCA4 for SMARCA4-deficient thoracic tumors. Given their highly aggressive behavior, proper recognition facilitates optimal management. For patients with advanced NSCLCs, we discuss the utility and limitations of immunohistochemistry (IHC) for the “must-test” predictive biomarkers: anaplastic lymphoma kinase, ROS1, programmed cell death protein 1, and epidermal growth factor receptor. IHC using mutant-specific BRAF V600E, RET, pan-TRK, and LKB1 antibodies can be orthogonal tools for screening or confirmation of molecular events. ERBB2 and MET alterations include both activating mutations and gene amplifications, detection of which relies on molecular methods with a minimal role for IHC in NSCLC. IHC sits at the intersection of an integrated surgical pathology and molecular diagnostic practice, serves as a powerful functional surrogate for molecular testing, and is an indispensable tool of precision medicine in the care of lung cancer patients.
The Effects of Tryptophan Enhancement and Depletion on Plasma Catecholamine Levels in Healthy Individuals
Authors: Boyle Stephen H. , Brummett Beverly H. , Kuhn Cynthia M. , Barefoot John C. , Siegler Ilene C. , Williams Redford B. , Georgiades Anastasia
Published: September 2018

Objective

Central nervous system (CNS) serotonin (5-HT) exerts both excitatory and inhibitory effects on the sympathetic nervous system (SNS) in animals. In this study, we examine the effects of tryptophan enhancement and depletion on plasma catecholamine levels in humans.

Methods

The total sample consisted of 164 healthy men and women who were tested for 2 days. Seventy-nine participants were randomized to a tryptophan enhancement condition and 85 to a tryptophan depletion condition. Both protocols consisted of a “sham day,” followed by an “active day.” Blood samples for assessment of plasma norepinephrine and epinephrine levels were collected before and after tryptophan enhancement/depletion. Data were analyzed using general linear models. Separate analyses were conducted for each study arm and for each measure.

Results

In the depletion condition, both epinephrine (F(5,330) = 2.69,p= .021) and norepinephrine (F(5,335) = 2.79,p= .018) showed small increases on active versus “sham” depletion days. There were also significant day by time interactions for epinephrine (F(3,171) = 39.32,p< .0001) and norepinephrine (F(3,195) = 31.09,p< .0001) levels in the enhancement arm. Tryptophan infusion resulted in a marked increase in epinephrine (Premean= 23.92 (12.23) versus Postmean= 81.57 (62.36)) and decrease in norepinephrine (Premean= 257.2 (106.11) versus Postmean= 177.04 (87.15)), whereas levels of both catecholamines were stable on the “sham day.”

Conclusions

CNS 5-HT exerts both inhibitory and excitatory effects on SNS activity in humans, potentially due to stimulation of CNS 5-HT receptors that have shown to have inhibitory (5-HT1A) and excitatory (5-HT1Aand/or 5-HT2) SNS effects in animal models.
Pulse Pressure and Outcome in Kidney Transplantation: Results From the Collaborative Transplant Study
Authors: Krüger Bernd , Döhler Bernd , Opelz Gerhard , Krämer Bernhard K. , Süsal Caner
Published: September 2018

Background.

Systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) are important predictors of graft and patient survival in renal transplantation. Pulse pressure (PP), the difference between systolic and diastolic pressure, has been associated with cardiovascular and renal morbidity in nontransplant epidemiological studies and clinical trials.

Methods.

In this large retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data, transplant recipients from 1995 to 2015 were examined for patient and death-censored graft survival.

Results.

In 43 006 recipients, a higher 1-year PP was significantly associated with inferior 10-year patient and death-censored graft survival. In patients 60 years or older, SBP but not DBP was associated with 10-year survival, an effect that was pronounced in patients with a normal SBP of <140 mm Hg and an increased PP of 60 mm Hg or greater, highlighting the superior impact of PP on survival in elderly recipients. In recipients 60 years or older, higher PP was associated with increased mortality due to circulatory system diseases but not to infection or cancer. The combination of PP 60 mm Hg or greater and high SBP of 140 mm Hg or greater showed the strongest association with death-censored graft survival across all age groups.

Conclusions.

We found convincing evidence that PP 1-year posttransplant is predictive of patient survival, especially in elderly recipients with normal SBP. Combined analysis of SBP and PP showed that high PP confers additional predictive information for patient survival beyond that derived from analysis of SBP alone. With regard to prediction of death-censored graft survival, the combination of high SBP and high PP showed the best correlation across all age groups.
Changes in Peristomal Skin Condition and User Experience of a Novel Ostomy Barrier Ring With Assisted Flow
Authors: Hunt Rhona , Kelleher Kevin , Coffey J. Calvin , Clarke Moloney Mary , Ahern Mary , Conway Elaine , Hannigan Ailish , Erwin-Toth Paula , O'Sullivan Leonard W.
Published: September 2018

PURPOSE:

This purpose of this study was to evaluate a novel barrier ring with an assisted flow mechanism by assessing changes in peristomal moisture-associated skin damage (MASD) and perceptions of comfort, security, handling, and discretion in persons with an ileostomy for 6 months or longer.

DESIGN:

Single-arm, open-labeled feasibility study.

SUBJECTS AND SETTINGS:

Twenty participants (aged ≥18 years) with an ileostomy for 6 months or more participated in the study and 12 completed data collection. The primary reason for dropouts concerned compatibility issues with the barrier ring when used with certain convex pouching systems.

METHODS:

Participants used the barrier ring along with their normal ostomy pouching system for a period of 6 weeks. Changes in skin condition were assessed using the Ostomy Skin Tool (OST). Participants' perception of the barrier rings' comfort, security, handling, and discretion were also recorded on a 10-point scale, where participants would offer a low score if their experience was negative and a higher score if their experience was positive. Participants changed pouches and barrier rings at their own discretion. For participants who completed the study, the average skin condition and median ratings of comfort, security, handling, and discretion at 6 weeks were compared to baseline values.

RESULTS:

Twelve of the 20 participants (60%) completed the study. For those who completed, the mean score on the OST decreased from 6.2 ± 1.90 (mean ± SD) at baseline to 3.4 ±1.73 at 6 weeks, indicating a mean reduction of 2.8 (95% CI, −1.6 to −3.9; P < .001). The peristomal skin condition of 9 participants improved, whereas 3 experienced no change. All participants who completed the study rated comfort, handling, security, and discretion highly (median score 10 at baseline and at 6 weeks).

CONCLUSIONS:

Study findings indicate the novel ostomy barrier ring may reduce levels of peristomal MASD in persons living with an ileostomy, though a more extensive trial with a control group is recommended.
Computational modelling suggests complex interactions between interstitial flow and tumour angiogenesis
Authors: Vilanova Guillermo , Burés Miguel , Colominas Ignasi , Gomez Hector
Published: September 2018

Angiogenesis, the growth of capillaries from pre-existing ones, plays a key role in cancer progression. Tumours release tumour angiogenic factors (TAFs) into the extracellular matrix (ECM) that trigger angiogenesis once they reach the vasculature. The neovasculature provides nutrients and oxygen to the tumour. In the ECM, the interstitial fluid moves driven by pressure differences and may affect the distribution of tumour TAFs, and, in turn, tumour vascularization. In this work, we propose a hybrid mathematical model to investigate the influence of fluid flow in tumour angiogenesis. Our model shows the impact of interstitial flow in a time-evolving capillary network using a continuous approach. The flow model is coupled to a model of angiogenesis that includes tip endothelial cells, filopodia, capillaries and TAFs. The TAF transport equation considers not only diffusive mechanisms but also the convective transport produced by interstitial flow. Our simulations predict a significant alteration of the new vascular networks, which tend to grow more prominently against the flow. The model suggests that interstitial flow may produce increased tumour malignancies and hindered treatments.
Structural insights into the functional diversity of the CDK–cyclin family
Authors: Wood Daniel J. , Endicott Jane A.
Published: September 2018

Since their characterization as conserved modules that regulate progression through the eukaryotic cell cycle, cyclin-dependent protein kinases (CDKs) in higher eukaryotic cells are now also emerging as significant regulators of transcription, metabolism and cell differentiation. The cyclins, though originally characterized as CDK partners, also have CDK-independent roles that include the regulation of DNA damage repair and transcriptional programmes that direct cell differentiation, apoptosis and metabolic flux. This review compares the structures of the members of the CDK and cyclin families determined by X-ray crystallography, and considers what mechanistic insights they provide to guide functional studies and distinguish CDK- and cyclin-specific activities. Aberrant CDK activity is a hallmark of a number of diseases, and structural studies can provide important insights to identify novel routes to therapy.
Prospective randomized controlled study directly comparing tadalafil and tamsulosin for male patients with lower urinary tract symptoms
Authors: Takeuchi Takumi , Toyokawa Satoshi , Okuno Yumiko , Ishida Noriko , Yamagoe Masanari , Zaitsu Masayoshi , Mikami Koji
Published: September 2018

Lower urinary tract symptoms are widespread in elderly men and often suggestive of benign prostatic hyperplasia (LUTS/BPH). A randomized, prospective, and open-labeled trial directly comparing the effects of tadalafil (a phosphodiesterase 5 inhibitor) 5 mg once daily and tamsulosin (an α1-blocker) 0.2 mg once daily for 12 weeks in LUTS/BPH patients was conducted. Data were recorded before randomization as well as at 4, 8, and 12 weeks after medication. Fifteen patients allocated tadalafil and 20 allocated tamsulosin completed 12 weeks of medication. Total IPSS, IPSS voiding, and IPSS-QOL scores declined with medication, but there was no difference between drugs. IPSS storage scores reduced more in the tamsulosin group than tadalafil group. OABSS did not decline significantly with medication. IIEF5 was maintained in the tadalafil group, but declined in the tamsulosin group. The maximum flow rate and post-void residual urine volume did not significantly change with medication. Daytime, night-time, and 24-hour urinary frequencies as well as the mean and largest daytime, night-time, and 24-hour voiding volumes per void did not significantly change with medication. In conclusion, tamsulosin was more effective to reduce storage symptoms than tadalafil. Tadalafil had the advantage of maintaining the erectile function.
Crystallographically correct but confusing presentation of structural models deposited in the Protein Data Bank
Authors: Dauter Zbigniew , Wlodawer Alexander
Published: September 2018

The Protein Data Bank (PDB) constitutes a collection of the available atomic models of macromolecules and their complexes obtained by various methods used in structural biology, but chiefly by crystallography. It is an indispensable resource for all branches of science that deal with the structures of biologically active molecules, such as structural biology, bioinformatics, the design of novel drugs etc. Since not all users of the PDB are familiar with the methods of crystallography, it is important to present the results of crystallographic analyses in a form that is easy to interpret by nonspecialists. It is advisable during the submission of structures to the PDB to pay attention to the optimal placement of molecules within the crystal unit cell, to the correct representation of oligomeric assemblies and to the proper selection of the space-group symmetry. Examples of significant departures from these principles illustrate the potential for the misinterpretation of such suboptimally presented crystal structures.
Moderating effects of age on personality, driving behavior towards driving outcomes
Authors: Haerani Siti , Parmitasari Rika Dwi Ayu , Aponno Elsina Huberta , Aunalal Zany Irayati
Published: September 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to identify the effect of people’s personality on driving behavior and traffic accidents and violations in the province of South Sulawesi.

Design/methodology/approach

This research was conducted in order to determine the moderating effects of age on the relationship between personality variables, driving behavior and driving outcomes. The research was conducted over two years. For the first year of this study, research was conducted in the city of Makassar, the capital of the South Sulawesi province, which has the highest volume of accidents compared to other districts/cities in South Sulawesi. The approach used in conducting the data analysis was a quantitative approach; the inferential statistical analysis method of analysis used to test the hypothesis of the research was structural equation modeling.

Findings

The results of the analysis show that age is a moderating variable in the relationship between personality, driving behavior and driving outcomes. The higher the age, the stronger the influence of personality on driving behavior and driving outcomes, and the stronger the effect of driving behavior on driving outcomes.

Originality/value

Originality for this paper is shown as follows: using age on personality has a moderating effect on the relationship between driving behavior and driving outcomes; and the research would implicate driving behavior and inclined factors from the eastern part of Indonesia, since most research works were conducted in the western part of Indonesia and they hardly considered the moderating effect of age.
Deterrence effects, socio-economic development, police revenge and homicides in Rio de Janeiro
Authors: Montes Gabriel Caldas , Lins Gabriel Oliveira
Published: September 2018

Purpose

Due to the high levels of crime in Rio de Janeiro, the purpose of this paper is twofold. The first one is to analyze the effects of deterrence variables (such as the adoption of Pacifying Police Units (UPPs) and incarcerations) on violence in the municipalities of the State of Rio de Janeiro, as well as to verify the existence of “revenge effect.” The second is to analyze the effects of socio-economic development on violence, using development indicators.

Design/methodology/approach

Besides usual OLS method for panel data analysis, the study makes use of dynamic panel data framework through D-GMM and S-GMM. The estimates are based on a sample of 82 municipalities of Rio de Janeiro, and the period runs from 2003 to 2013. As dependent variables, the estimates use violent deaths (i.e. aggregation of intentional homicides and armed robberies followed by death) and homicides resulting from opposition to police intervention (i.e. civilians killed as a result of police actions against criminals – “opposition deaths”).

Findings

The estimates indicate that incarceration presents marginal capacity to reduce violence. Regarding the findings for the adoption of UPPs, the evidence suggests that this project increased violence and, therefore, the possibility of displacement of violence to other regions of the State. With respect to the effect of police deaths over violence, the results are unprecedented and suggest the existence of a “revenge effect.” Besides, the study points to the importance of socio-economic development to reduce violence.

Originality/value

Once the study analyzes the effects of incarceration and UPPs, it contributes to the literature by providing new evidence on the ability of anti-crime policies of reducing (or not) violence. In addition, when considering the death of policemen in the estimates, the study shows an unprecedented way, the effect that these deaths cause over violence (the so-called “revenge effect”). Moreover, the study considers the impacts of the development of employment and income, health and education on violence. When analyzing these development indicators, the study contributes with the literature that looks for non-police alternatives to control crime.
Work-task types, stages, and information-seeking behavior of strategic planners
Authors: Li Yuelin , Li Ying , Pan Ying , Han Hongliang
Published: September 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine information-seeking behavior (ISB) of strategic planners in enterprise across different work-task types and stages.

Design/methodology/approach

A case study was conducted in a pharmaceutical company in China, labeled as T Company. One of the authors worked in the department of strategic planning of this company as an intern. The data were collected via participant observation and unstructured in-depth interviews. Open coding was performed to analyze the data.

Findings

Four work-task stages were identified: project preparation, gathering, discovery and presentation, and strategy formulation. The results indicate that work-task types, work-task stages, and strategic planners’ work role or position affect their information needs, source selection, and seeking process. Task complexity, task familiarity, and task goal are of the most important task attributes that directly shape strategic planners’ ISB. Work role determines the extent to which strategic planners can access the information of the company. Internal information has priority, but external information is also important when internal information is not sufficient; both are equally important for strategic planning projects. Social media has been a very important channel to access, disseminate and share information. Workshops are an important approach to producing final project reports. Face-to-face discussion and information exchange play a critical role in the formulation of new strategies.

Research limitations/implications

This is a case study with data collected from only one company in China. Some of the results may not be generalizable. However, it adds new knowledge to ISB research in enterprise, informs people how to provide better information services for strategic planners, and informs MBA education for students’ better information-seeking skills.

Originality/value

Though myriad studies on ISB, little research has been done to examine strategic planners’ ISB from a business context, especially taking into account the effect of work-task types and stages.
Examination of the congestion situation of a restaurant in a theme park using feedback control
Authors: Sakamoto Noriaki
Published: September 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to examine a congestion situation of a certain type of restaurant in a theme park (Tokyo Disney Resort) by a simulation based on Little’s law, which is a basic principle in Queueing theory. In the restaurant, a guest (customer) lines up to order, pay and receive dishes. A problem is that even when a guest can easily find vacant tables, it takes a long time to receive dishes. Because guests can see there are vacant tables, there are many tweets of complaints. This situation is a factor to undermine customer satisfaction.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper proposes dedicated special menu lines only providing special set as one solution that can be realized at a low cost to reduce vacant tables. Here, if the number of special menu lines is fixed, the difference between a queue in regular lines and that in special menu lines will be big. To shorten the difference, the author proposes a technique to regulate by using feedback control (Proportional control or Fuzzy control).

Findings

The simulation result shows that the number of vacant tables decreases by about 16 per cent compared with the current situation.

Originality/value

This paper considers a specific restaurant, but the proposed method can be applied to the same type of restaurant in the theme park. If the restaurant in the theme park is crowded, the feedback control of the queue brings new possibilities.
Fuzzy logic-based bidding strategies in dynamic double auctions
Authors: Unal Baki , Aladag Çagdas Hakan
Published: September 2018

Purpose

Double auctions are widely used market mechanisms on the world. Communication technologies such as internet increased importance of this market institution. The purpose of this study is to develop novel bidding strategies for dynamic double auction markets, explain price formation through interactions of buyers and sellers in decentralized fashion and compare macro market outputs of different micro bidding strategies.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, two novel bidding strategies based on fuzzy logic are presented. Also, four new bidding strategies based on price targeting are introduced for the aim of comparison. The proposed bidding strategies are based on agent-based computational economics approach. The authors performed multi-agent simulations of double auction market for each suggested bidding strategy. For the aim of comparison, the zero intelligence strategy is also used in the simulation study. Various market outputs are obtained from these simulations. These outputs are market efficiencies, price means, price standard deviations, profits of sellers and buyers, transaction quantities, profit dispersions and Smith’s alpha statistics. All outputs are also compared to each other usingt-tests and kernel density plots.

Findings

The results show that fuzzy logic-based bidding strategies are superior to price targeting strategies and the zero intelligence strategy. The authors also find that only small number of inputs such as the best bid, the best ask, reference price and trader valuations are sufficient to take right action and to attain higher efficiency in a fuzzy logic-based bidding strategy.

Originality/value

This paper presents novel bidding strategies for dynamic double auction markets. New bidding strategies based on fuzzy logic inference systems are developed, and their superior performances are shown. These strategies can be easily used in market-based control and automated bidding systems.
Incorporating medical leadership into undergraduate curricula: a proposal for a spiral curriculum
Authors: Lamont Ross I. , Chapman Ann L.N.
Published: September 2018

Purpose

There is increasing recognition of the importance of incorporating medical leadership training into undergraduate medical curricula and this is now advocated by the General Medical Council (GMC) and supported through the development of the Undergraduate Medical Leadership Competency Framework (MLCF). However to date, few medical schools have done so in a systematic way and training/experience in medical leadership at undergraduate level is sporadic and often based on local enthusiasm. The purpose of this paper is to outline a theoretical curriculum to stimulate and support medical leadership development at undergraduate level.

Design/methodology/approach

This study describes a theoretical framework for incorporation of medical leadership training into undergraduate curricula using a spiral curriculum approach, linked to competences outlined in the Undergraduate Medical Leadership Competency Framework. The curriculum includes core training in medical leadership for all students within each year group with additional tiers of learning for students with a particular interest.

Findings

This curriculum includes theoretical and practical learning opportunities and it is designed to be deliverable within the existing teaching and National Health Service (NHS) structures. The engagement with local NHS organisations offers opportunities to broaden the university teaching faculty and also to streamline medical leadership development across undergraduate and postgraduate medical education.

Originality/value

This theoretical curriculum is generic and therefore adaptable to a variety of undergraduate medical courses. The combination of theoretical and practical learning opportunities within a leadership spiral curriculum is a novel and systematic approach to undergraduate medical leadership development.
Mediating effect of online social support on the relationship between stress and mental well-being
Authors: Xavier Naveenraj , J. Reeves Wesley
Published: September 2018

Purpose

Workplace stress is on the rise and progressive organizations devise their own mechanisms to mitigate it and enhance mental wellbeing (MWB). Of late, the workforce is increasingly dependent on social networking sites (SNS) for social exchanges and debate is well documented if SNS could be used to mediate the relationship between stress and MWB. The purpose of this paper is to investigate this relationship.

Design/methodology/approach

This study is based on a survey of 269 employees, on the following constructs: stress, online social support (OSS) and MWB. The authors’ proposed framework was investigated using structural equation modeling.

Findings

Results indicated that stress has a significant negative effect on MWB and subsequently, OSS partially mediates the relationship between stress and MWB. The results suggest that organizations allow the use of social networking site in a controlled setting so that employees could use this as a mechanism to control stress and enhance MWB.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study on OSS role in mediating the relationship between stress and MWB.
Mediation of product design and moderating effects of reference groups in the context of country-of-origin effect of a luxury Brand
Authors: Coudounaris Dafnis N.
Published: September 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the symbolic representations of non-users compared to the life experiences of users related to a luxury brand. In particular, the study examines whether product design mediates the relationship between antecedent factors of country-of-origin effect and product experience, and it also investigates the moderating effects of reference groups (non-users vs users) on the relationship between antecedent factors of country-of-origin effect and product design related to a luxury brand, namely, the Mercedes-Benz C-Class or E-Series.

Design/methodology/approach

A sample of convenience of 272 persons classified as non-users and users is investigated. An online questionnaire was used and 28 statements are included in the analysis based on a seven-point Likert scale.

Findings

The study reveals that the country-of-origin effect for the model of non-users and users has a very good fit with current data and is statistically significant. It also reveals that all relationships are significant except for price consciousness to product design and for brand familiarity to price consciousness. There is also partial mediation of product design between antecedent factors and product experience. Furthermore, the moderating effect of reference groups appears to play an important role, as it impacts the relationship between antecedent factors of the country-of-origin effect and product design/product experience.

Originality/value

This study indicates that the non-users’ group based on the hypothetical purchases of a luxury brand with a strong country image has a different country-of-origin effect to the users’ group of the same luxury brand. Moreover, the study concludes that there are statistically significant differences between the non-users’ group versus users’ group of a luxury brand (Mercedes-Benz), and these differences are concerned with the constructs of brand familiarity, brand commitment, product design and product experience. Finally, the study reveals that “price consciousness” is not relevant for luxury brands. Managerial implications, limitations of the study and future research directions are discussed.
Diverging assessments of learning organizations during reform implementation
Authors: Borge Baard H. , Filstad Cathrine , Olsen Trude Høgvold , Skogmo Per Øyvind
Published: September 2018

Purpose

This study aims to explore whether hierarchical position and organizational size affect perceptions of a learning organization (LO) during reform implementation.

Design/methodology/approach

An electronic survey was distributed in four Norwegian police districts at an early stage of reform implementation. One of the objectives of the reform was to develop the police toward being more knowledge-based, and there had been specific calls for the police to become a LO. The 753 respondents were top managers, middle managers and employees.

Findings

Respondents rated their organizations lower than benchmark scores on supportive learning environment, learning processes and practices and leadership that reinforces learning. The perceptions diverged across hierarchical levels: middle managers and top managers gave higher scores to the organization as a learning one than employees did. Respondents from large police districts gave higher scores to their organizational units as LOs than respondents from small police districts.

Research limitations/implications

The study captures perceptions of characteristics of a LO at one point in reform implementation, and further studies are needed to fully understand explanations of diverging views within an organization as to whether it can be characterized as a LO.

Practical implications

Actual differences in local learning practices or different assessments of learning practices within the organization should be considered when developing LOs.

Originality/value

The study contributes to our knowledge of LOs by showing diverging views within the same organization in a context of reform implementation.
Adolescents’ self-reported level of dispositional advertising literacy: how do adolescents resist advertising in the current commercial media environment?
Authors: De Jans Steffi , Hudders Liselot , Cauberghe Veroline
Published: September 2018

Purpose

This study aims to examine adolescents’ (between 12 and 18 years) perceptions of their knowledge and skills related to advertising (i.e. dispositional advertising literacy). More specifically, adolescents’ beliefs about their recognition and understanding of advertising (cognitive facet), their emotional reaction to advertising (affective facet) and their moral evaluation of advertising (moral facet) were investigated together with their beliefs about the way they resist advertising.

Design/methodology/approach

A large-scale survey was conducted, taking information from 2,602 adolescents between the ages of 12 and 18 years.

Findings

The findings show that adolescents believe they can recognize advertising reasonably well and have a moderate understanding of it. They tend to be negative toward advertising, perceive it as an unfair practice and claim to resist it strongly. In addition, adolescents’ self-reported moral and affective advertising literacy positively affect advertising resistance. Adolescents’ cognitive advertising literacy increases with the number of different media device types owned, and cognitive and moral advertising literacy increase with age.

Originality/value

This study is one of the first to examine adolescents’ beliefs about their dispositional advertising literacy. Most previous studies examined advertising literacy among young children (under 12 years) or adults after exposure to a specific advertising format (i.e. situational advertising literacy), while this study focuses on adolescents’ self-reported levels of cognitive, moral and affective dispositional advertising literacy. In addition, the focus on resistance strategies to examine how adolescents resist advertising is unique.