bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of public green space on residential property values in Belfast metropolitan area
Authors: McCord J. , McCord M. , McCluskey W. , Davis P.T. , McIlhatton D. , Haran M.
Published: August 2014

Purpose

– The aim of this study is to add to the emerging knowledge base in the UK and be of relevance to land use planners and all stakeholders in property taxation. Urban green open spaces are valuable environmental resources often associated with positive influences for quality of life and property value.

Design/methodology/approach

– Using a hedonic pricing specification, this paper measures the proximate effect of public green space on residential property value. It examines the relationship between 3,854 residential sales transactions and public green spaces across the Belfast housing market gathered from Land and Property Services throughout the year 2011 showing the percentage effect on property value with respect to distance to public green spaces.

Findings

– The results show that,ceteris paribus, urban green space has a significant positive impact on proximate residential properties sale price for the terrace and apartment sectors and that terrace and apartment property located closer to public green spaces achieved increases in sale price of up to 49 per cent. Adjacency to green open space produced significant property value premiums in only two of the four housing types analysed, with limited statistically significant proximate effects evident for the detached and semi-detached sectors, a finding which has important social and public policy implications.

Originality/value

– A number of empirical studies have demonstrated that public green space, such as urban parks, have a positive impact on property values. However, there is a paucity of empirical research on this relationship in the UK. This study serves to address this gap by examining the effect of public green spaces on house price within the medium-sized regional city in the UK.
Consumer responses toward online review manipulation
Authors: Jin Ma Yoon , Lee Hyun-Hwa
Published: August 2014

Purpose

– This paper aims to explore the effect on consumer responses of firms’ manipulating online reviews based on review valence (positive vs negative) and the relationship between consumer trust and purchase intentions.

Design/methodology/approach

– This study was designed as an experimental study using a scenario method, and data were randomly collected from 2,080 online shoppers in the USA.

Findings

– Findings reveal that the unfair business practice of manipulating online postings considerably undermined consumer trust toward online reviews. Consumer trust in reviews thus seems to be a critical predictor of purchase intentions, which was strengthened even when respondents knew that online reviews were manipulated.

Practical implications

– Companies may thus need to focus on maintaining transparency and truthfulness in online consumer reviews rather than artificially improving ratings scores or feedback levels.

Originality/value

– This study was the first attempt to provide empirical supports that the level of consumer trust in online reviews significantly decreased after consumers were informed that the review content had been manipulated by a company in both the positive and negative conditions. These results also support previous research articulating the negativity effect.
The role of mindfulness in entrepreneurial market analysis
Authors: M. Gordon Jason , King Schaller Tracey
Published: August 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to explore mindfulness as a cognitive construct that affects the identification and processing of information during market analysis leading to opportunity evaluation.

Design/methodology/approach

– This paper draws from theory on entrepreneurial cognition and introduces the concept of mindfulness in market analysis to better understand the entrepreneurial mindset at the opportunity evaluation stage of the value-creation process.

Findings

– Based on a review of the literature on entrepreneurial cognition and mindfulness at the marketing/entrepreneurship interface, a detailed description of the concept of mindful market analysis is presented. In addition, propositions are developed regarding the moderating effects of mindful market analysis on the relationships between various personal and psychological factors and information processing outcomes related to opportunity evaluation.

Originality/value

– Much research exists regarding idea creation, entrepreneurial action, opportunity discovery and recognition and entrepreneurial traits. Taking a different approach, this research focuses on opportunity evaluation and the role of market analysis at this stage of the entrepreneurial process. Overall, these contributions help to fulfill the call for more research on the intrapersonal cognitive processes of entrepreneurs and their role in opportunity evaluation.
How to execute mindful marketing? The role of intrafirm network
Authors: Zhu Tao
Published: August 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to propose an empirical linkage of intrafirm network characteristics to individual-level mindful marketing (MM).

Design/methodology/approach

– Based on current literature in network, market orientation and MM research, this paper presents one conceptual model to capture enablers of MM execution with a network approach. The authors identified a pair of antecedent/barrier to MM execution: individual employees’ shared cross-functional tie and firm-level segmentation of the network.

Findings

– The paper shows that to execute MM, employees possessing more cross-functional ties are more likely to develop higher level of MM. Meanwhile, it was also found that firm-level segmentation of intrafirm network will negatively affect employees in executing MM.

Research limitations/implications

– The paper shows that to execute MM, employees possessing more cross-functional ties are more likely to develop higher level of MM. Meanwhile, it was also found that firm-level segmentation of intrafirm network will negatively affect employees in executing MM.

Practical implications

– The proposed empirical linkage shows that a manager shall intervene and help employees to build cross-functional ties in advice network among themselves. Thus, firms are able to effectively maintain mindfulness of people and profit and ensure optimal execution of MM strategy. Meanwhile, they should offset possible negative effects of the advice network due to segmentation at firm level, which provides useful customer information flow throughout the firm.

Originality/value

– The paper is one of the first attempts to advance and examine the role of intrafirm network in executing the concept of MM. Methodologically, this paper also explores the use of network analysis in discussion of an organizational structure that favors MM.
The mediating role of mindful entrepreneurial marketing (MEM) between production and consumption
Authors: Uslay Can , Erdogan Emine
Published: August 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to introduce and explore the tenets of the mindful entrepreneurial marketing (MEM) construct and to illustrate its mediation effect between production and consumption.

Design/methodology/approach

– Based on the existing mindfulness and entrepreneurial marketing research, this paper explores tenets of MEM and presents a basic taxonomy to identify mindful production and consumption practices, and opportunities for MEM initiatives.

Findings

– The study proposes that the combination of mindfulness and entrepreneurial marketing approach provides an ideal match where both consumers and mindful producers can become more mindful and prosper. As a new construct, MEM has the potential to alleviate lack of consumption, to create awareness about overconsumption and, ultimately, to enhance societal welfare by increasing the efficiency of markets by enabling more effective usage of society’s resources.

Originality/value

– This paper is the first study that focuses on the MEM construct. In this respect, the study contributes to mindfulness, mindful marketing, entrepreneurial marketing and the general marketing literature.
Bibliometric analysis of African Journal Of Library, Archives and Information Science from 2000-2012
Authors: Tella Adeyinka , Aisha Olabooye Ayotola
Published: August 2014

Purpose

– This study aims to examine the pattern of publications, using a bibliometric analysis, of the African Journal of Library, Archives and Information Science (AJLAIS) for the period between 2000 and 2012.

Design/methodology/approach

– The study uses appropriate measures and techniques of bibliometric analysis. Keeping the objectives of the study in mind, the data were collected from the AJLAIS covering the 13 identified years. The analysis covers mainly the number of articles published per volume in each of the specified years, the authorship patterns, the subject areas covered, the length of articles, the citation pattern of articles and the article types.

Findings

– The results of the study reveal that a total of 218 articles were published in the 13-year period, with 21 (9.63 per cent) articles being the highest total in the year 2002. The study showed that the majority of the articles, i.e. 126 (57.8 per cent), were published by single authors, out of which, a large number were on information retrieval. Of the total number of articles published, 86 (39.4 per cent) were 6-10 pages in length. Volume 19 in 2009 had the highest number of citations with a total of 451 (12.4 per cent). In addition, the study revealed that the majority of the articles were theoretical papers, with a total of 108 (49.5 per cent), while the others were empirical papers, book reviews and short communications.

Practical implications

– This bibliometric study will enlarge the knowledge base of information professionals on the present condition of library and information science (LIS) research in the current African context and provide some basis for future projections of the discipline. The study will also be helpful for librarians in the process of collection development. This is because, due to increased journal costs and slim budgets for libraries, collection development specialists must make careful selections based on the qualities and standards of journals.

Originality/value

– Researchers who shy away from this particular type of research owing to its rigorous and time-consuming nature should gather the courage to do so. Further studies should focus on analysing journals that are published in the field of librarianship in Africa, as it will create more awareness of the field of study among other professionals or researchers who are yet to know about it. The study has also revealed AJLAIS as one of the LIS standard journals in terms of its wider citation by contributors in the broader LIS literature.
Information and communication technologies and knowledge sharing among academic librarians in south-west Nigeria
Authors: Ngozi I. Anasi Stella , J. Akpan Imo , Adedokun Titilayo
Published: August 2014

Purpose

– This study aims to investigate the degree and frequency of utilisation of information and communication technology (ICT)-enabled platforms for knowledge-sharing by academic librarians in south-west Nigeria. It also seeks to identify possible barriers as well as strategies that will promote efficient utilisation of these platforms.

Design/methodology/approach

– This study adopted a descriptive survey design, using a researcher-developed questionnaire for data collection. Fifty-two professional librarians from selected academic libraries in south-west Nigeria were surveyed. Descriptive statistics were used for data analysis.

Findings

– Finding from the investigation revealed that academic librarians in south-west Nigeria are increasingly utilising ICT platforms for knowledge-sharing in preference to the traditional platforms. However, ignorance of existing ICT knowledge-sharing platforms, limited ICT skills and an unhealthy technology environment remain major challenges.

Originality/value

– The findings of this study have far-reaching implications for Nigerian academic librarians’ professional development. It advocates maximum utilisation of ICT platforms to enhance knowledge-sharing and collaboration for professional development, scholarly communication and efficient service delivery.
Map cataloguing training at the University of the West Indies, St. Augustine
Authors: Hosein Yacoob , Bowen-Chang Portia
Published: August 2014

Purpose

– This paper aims to provide a study of a structured approach at map cataloguing training by a team of cataloguers at the Alma Jordan Library of the University of the West Indies, St. Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago.

Design/methodology/approach

– The methodology is a case study which underscores the value of the experiences of cataloguers at training themselves in a particular cartographic format.

Findings

– The collaborative efforts of the cataloguers facilitated the further development of institutional expertise and provided the required skills set for increasing bibliographic access in a specialised format.

Originality/value

– The paper brings to bear the uniqueness of the cataloguing of Caribbean cartographic materials in a team-teaching setting which serves as a model for other academic libraries and information centres.
How to pick your staff? Using data envelopment analysis
Authors: Warning Susanne
Published: August 2014

Purpose

– This purpose of this paper is to present a tool for facilitating personnel selection when multiple heterogeneous human resource managers use multiple criteria. Two problems result from such a situation. First, when multiple criteria are applied, it is unusual for one candidate to dominate the other candidates in all areas, which requires assigning weights to the different criteria to be able to rank the candidates. Second, in a heterogeneous selection committee, finding weights that accurately reflect the individual preferences of all members is difficult.

Design/methodology/approach

– To deal with the multidimensional setting of selecting personnel, this paper introduces data envelopment analysis with assurance region (DEA-AR) to determine individually optimal weights for each applicant.

Findings

– DEA-AR leads to a score for each applicant that can serve as a signal for productivity and, thus, for evaluating the candidate. Based on linear programming, DEA-AR not only aggregates multiple dimensions into a single score but also incorporates managers’ preferences. In addition, the procedure is transparent and fair. It seems to be highly appropriate for selecting personnel. Based on a simulated dataset of applicants, the use of DEA-AR for selecting personnel is illustrated and discussed.

Originality/value

– DEA-AR provides a tool for supporting personnel selection or pre-selection. This model is based on a mechanical procedure and considers managers’ ideas about weights.
Maximizing agreement on diverse ontologies with “wisdom of crowds” relation classification
Authors: Zhitomirsky-Geffet Maayan , Shalom Erez Eden
Published: August 2014

Purpose

– Ontologies are defined as consensual formal conceptualisation of shared knowledge. However, the explicit overlap between diverse ontologies is usually very low since they are typically constructed by different experts. Hence, the purpose of this paper is to suggest to exploit “wisdom of crowds” to assess the maximal potential for inter-ontology agreement on controversial domains.

Design/methodology/approach

– The authors propose a scheme where independent ontology users can explicitly express their opinions on the specified set of ontologies. The collected user opinions are further employed as features for machine classification algorithm to distinguish between the consensual ontological relations and the controversial ones. In addition, the authors devised new evaluation methods to measure the reliability and accuracy of the presented scheme.

Findings

– The accuracy of the relation classification (90 per cent) and the reliability of user agreement annotations were quite high (over 90 per cent). These results indicate a fair ability of the scheme to learn the maximal set of consensual relations out of the specified set of diverse ontologies.

Research limitations/implications

– The data sets and the group of participants in our experiments were of limited size and thus the presented results are promising but cannot be generalised at this stage of research.

Practical implications

– A diversity of opinions expressed by different ontologies has to be resolved in order to digitise many domains of knowledge (e.g. cultural heritage, folklore, medicine, economy, religion, history, art). This work presents a methodology to formally represent this diverse knowledge in a rich semantic scheme where there is a need to distinguish between the commonly shared and the controversial relations.

Originality/value

– To the best of the knowledge this is a first proposal to consider crowd-based evaluation and classification of ontological relations to maximise the inter-ontology agreement.
Team learning and service improvements in health care
Authors: Boak George
Published: August 2014

Purpose

– This study aims to propose a typology of team learning processes, based on a study of teams of health care therapists across England who were engaged in improving their services.

Design/methodology/approach

– Information was gathered from 35 teams of health care therapists, through analysis of reports produced by the teams and by interviews with team leaders. The actions taken to achieve service improvements were analysed through a lens of team learning.

Findings

– Team learning is an appropriate frame of reference for analysing actions designed to bring about change and improvement. Seven distinct team learning activities are defined.

Research limitations/implications

– The implication of the study is that it is useful to apply a theoretical framework of organisational learning to service improvements undertaken by work teams. The study indicates learning processes that were important elements in these changes. The study limitation was that information was gathered mainly from the leaders of each team; other team members may have contributed different perceptions.

Practical implications

– Leaders of organisations and of teams should adopt team learning as a useful perspective for improving services and should consider how to encourage and support team learning.

Originality/value

– This is one of a small number of empirical studies of team learning processes in work organisations.
Counterproductive behaviors
Authors: Aubé Caroline , Rousseau Vincent
Published: August 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper, building on the work of Aubéet al.(2009, 2011) who developed a four-dimension model of counterproductive behaviors in team settings, is to examine the team-level consequences of these behaviors. More specifically, the authors investigate the mediating role of collaboration, a key component of teamwork, in the counterproductive behaviors–team performance relationships.

Design/methodology/approach

– Using a multisource approach and a team-level design, data were gathered from 101 work teams (381 members and 101 immediate supervisors). The study was conducted within a Canadian public safety organization.

Findings

– Results show that the four dimensions of counterproductive behaviors are negatively related to team performance. Moreover, results indicate that each of these relationships is completely mediated by a decrease of collaboration among members. Taken together, the results of this study show that the presence of counterproductive behaviors within teams constitutes a collective phenomenon which affects not only team members, but also the functioning and effectiveness of the team as a whole.

Originality/value

– This study differs from previous studies mainly by adopting a multidimensional conception of counterproductive behaviors and focusing on consequences of these behaviors on the team as a system. In practical terms, the results suggest that the presence of counterproductive behaviors may require team-level interventions (e.g. team building) in addition to individual interventions with individuals involved.
Multiplication of microbes below 0.690 water activity: implications for terrestrial and extraterrestrial life
Authors: Stevenson Andrew , Burkhardt Jürgen , Cockell Charles S. , Cray Jonathan A. , Dijksterhuis Jan , Fox‐Powell Mark , Kee Terence P. , Kminek Gerhard , McGenity Terry J. , Timmis Kenneth N. , Timson David J. , Voytek Mary A. , Westall Frances , Yakimov Michail M. , Hallsworth John E.
Published: August 2014

Since a key requirement of known life forms is available water (water activity; aw), recent searches for signatures of past life in terrestrial and extraterrestrial environments have targeted places known to have contained significant quantities of biologically available water. However, early life on Earth inhabited high‐salt environments, suggesting an ability to withstand low water‐activity. The lower limit of water activity that enables cell division appears to be ∼ 0.605 which, until now, was only known to be exhibited by a single eukaryote, the sugar‐tolerant, fungal xerophile Xeromyces bisporus. The first forms of life on Earth were, though, prokaryotic. Recent evidence now indicates that some halophilic Archaea and Bacteria have water‐activity limits more or less equal to those of X. bisporus. We discuss water activity in relation to the limits of Earth's present‐day biosphere; the possibility of microbial multiplication by utilizing water from thin, aqueous films or non‐liquid sources; whether prokaryotes were the first organisms able to multiply close to the 0.605‐aw limit; and whether extraterrestrial aqueous milieux of ≥ 0.605 aw can resemble fertile microbial habitats found on Earth.
Role of linguistic and sociocultural diversity in reading literacy achievement: a multilevel approach
Authors: Netten Andrea , Luyten Hans , Droop Mienke , Verhoeven Ludo
Published: August 2014

This study examined how linguistic and sociocultural diversity have an impact on the reading literacy outcomes of a representative sample of 3,549 first‐language (L1) and 208 second‐language (L2) fourth‐grade students in the Netherlands. A multilevel modelling analysis was conducted using Progress in International Reading Literacy Study 2006 data to explore to what extent linguistic background, socioeconomic status (SES), home and school literacy environment and reading attitudes explain differences in reading literacy achievement. Significant differences between L1 and L2 students were found with regard to reading literacy achievement, SES and the home and school literacy environment. Multilevel modelling analysis showed 34.7% of explained variance in reading literacy achievement, whereby the student level accounts for most of the explained variance. In the final model, linguistic background, SES, home and school literacy environment and reading attitudes were found to have a significant effect on reading literacy achievement.
Effect of Matching Mechanism on Learning in Games Played Under Limited Information
Authors: Feltovich Nick , Oda Sobei H.
Published: August 2014

We examine the effect of the matching mechanism on learning in 2 × 2 games. Six games are played repeatedly under either fixed pairs or random matching. Unlike most economics experiments, the games are played under limited information: subjects are never shown the games' payoff matrices nor given information about opponent payoffs. We find that behaviour, while initially similar between treatments, diverges over time. In most but not all games, fixed‐pairs matching is associated with increased coordination on pure‐strategy Nash equilibria, higher‐payoff equilibria being reached and faster convergence toward pure‐strategy play.
Voluntary Contribution Mechanism Played over an Infinite Horizon
Authors: Tan Lijia , Wei Lijia
Published: August 2014

We experimentally investigate the evolution play in an infinitely repeated voluntary contribution mechanism (VCM). We find that in infinitely repeated VCM games: (i) average contributions in the first round are similar to those of finitely repeated VCM games; (ii) most groups have a non‐monotonic trend of contribution with repetition; and (iii) contributions remain at the same level after an unexpected restart. The data provides strong support for heterogeneous subjects, which may explain the non‐monotonic trend of average contributions. This trend is caused by one category of subjects who expect others to contribute in period t as they did in period t − 1.
Risk Aversion, Overconfidence and Private Information as Determinants of Majority Thresholds
Authors: Attanasi Giuseppe , Corazzini Luca , Georgantzís Nikolaos , Passarelli Francesco
Published: August 2014

We present and experimentally test a theoretical model of majority threshold determination as a function of voters’ risk preferences. The experimental results confirm the theoretical prediction of a positive correlation between the voter's risk aversion and the corresponding preferred majority threshold. Furthermore, the experimental results show that a voter's preferred majority threshold negatively relates to the voter's confidence about how others will vote. Moreover, in a treatment in which individuals receive a private signal about others’ voting behaviour, the confidence‐related motivation of behaviour loses ground to the signal's strength.
Comparison of milk‐derived whey protein concentrates containing various levels of casein
Authors: Coppola Lauren E , Molitor Michael S , Rankin Scott A , Lucey John A
Published: August 2014

Milk permeate was obtained from microfiltration (MF) and concentrated to produce milk‐derived whey protein concentrate (MWPC); MF at low temperatures yielded permeate with caseins (MWPC‐HC), and at higher MF temperatures, low concentrations of caseins were present (MWPC‐LC). MWPC samples were compared to whey protein concentrates (WPCs). Solutions of MWPC were less turbid and produced larger foam overruns and more stable foams than WPC. MWPC‐HC solutions produced the most stable foams. MWPC contained fewer types and lower relative quantities of volatile compounds than WPC before and after storage. Compared with WPC, MWPC have superior sensory, foaming and storage properties.
Growth‐promoting Sphingomonas paucimobilis ZJSH1 associated with Dendrobium officinale through phytohormone production and nitrogen fixation
Authors: Yang Suijuan , Zhang Xinghai , Cao Zhaoyun , Zhao Kaipeng , Wang Sai , Chen Mingxue , Hu Xiufang
Published: August 2014

Growth‐promoting Sphingomonas paucimobilis ZJSH1, associated with Dendrobium officinale, a traditional Chinese medicinal plant, was characterized. At 90 days post‐inoculation, strain ZJSH1 significantly promoted the growth of D. officinale seedlings, with increases of stems by 8.6% and fresh weight by 7.5%. Interestingly, the polysaccharide content extracted from the inoculated seedlings was 0.6% higher than that of the control. Similar growth promotion was observed with the transplants inoculated with strain ZJSH1. The mechanism of growth promotion was attributed to a combination of phytohormones and nitrogen fixation. Strain ZJSH1 was found using the Kjeldahl method to have a nitrogen fixation activity of 1.15 mg l−1, which was confirmed by sequencing of the nifH gene. Using high‐performance liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry, strain ZJSH1 was found to produce various phytohormones, including salicylic acid (SA), indole‐3‐acetic acid (IAA), Zeatin and abscisic acid (ABA). The growth curve showed that strain ZJSH1 grew well in the seedlings, especially in the roots. Accordingly, much higher contents of SA, ABA, IAA and c‐ZR were detected in the inoculated seedlings, which may play roles as both phytohormones and ‘Systemic Acquired Resistance’ drivers. Nitrogen fixation and secretion of plant growth regulators (SA, IAA, Zeatin and ABA) endow S. paucimobilis ZJSH1 with growth‐promoting properties, which provides a potential for application in the commercial growth of D. officinale.
Establishing a robotic colorectal surgery programme
Authors: Bell Stephen , Carne Peter , Chin Martin , Farmer Chip
Published: August 2014

Background

This paper aimed to describe the training available and the process taken to establish a robotic colorectal surgery programme in a large Australian academic private hospital. Through this we hope to guide other surgeons and hospitals planning to introduce this technology in circumstances where such guidelines do not exist.

Methods

The available training and credentialing pathways are described, including the da Vinci Surgery Training Pathway provided by Intuitive Surgical and hospital‐based supports. A proposed 9‐point training and credentialing pathway is presented, along with the activities undertaken by each surgeon.

Results

From December 2011 to December 2013, 48 robotic colorectal procedures were performed at the Cabrini Hospital. Operations performed were as follows: 23 anterior resections, seven abdominoperineal resections, 11 rectopexies, three proctectomies and ileal pouch‐anal anastomosis and four right hemicolectomies. There have been no conversions, and no major complications. There were no robot‐specific complications.

Conclusion

We believe that this thorough and methodical approach to introducing robotics to colorectal surgery has been safe and effective, and should be applicable to other surgeons and hospitals wishing to introduce robotic technology to colorectal surgery.
Mortality from acute appendicitis is associated with complex disease and co‐morbidity
Authors: Wysocki Arkadiusz Peter , Allen Jennifer , Rey‐Conde Therese , North John B.
Published: August 2014

Background

Studies evaluating mortality in patients with acute appendicitis focus on the outcomes of appendicectomy alone. We hypothesize this may not be representative of what happens in clinical practice as a small proportion of patients with acute appendicitis undergo procedures other than appendicectomy, for example, caecectomy or right hemicolectomy. To clarify the issue, the authors evaluated Australian adult patients who died with a primary diagnosis of acute appendicitis regardless of whether they underwent an operation or the type of operation performed.

Methods

A cross‐sectional analysis of systematically collected mortality data from the Australian and New Zealand Audit of Surgical Mortality was conducted on adults who died in hospital with a primary diagnosis of acute appendicitis between January 2009 and December 2012.

Results

Twenty‐six patients died with a primary diagnosis of acute appendicitis. The median age was 83 years and the median number of co‐morbidities was three. Four patients died without surgery due to their family's wishes. Twenty‐two patients were treated surgically: five for right hemicolectomy, four for laparoscopic/McBurney appendicectomy, 10 for laparotomy with appendicectomy, two for unknown method of appendicectomy and one for open abscess drainage.

Conclusion

Most adult patients who died following surgery for acute appendicitis did not undergo simple appendicectomy but underwent more complicated procedures for complex appendicitis.
Use of ‘non‐medical’ ultrasound imaging before mid‐pregnancy in Copenhagen
Authors: Thorup Tine J. , Zingenberg Helle
Published: August 2014

We have investigated prospectively how many pregnant women purchase ultrasound imaging before week 20, why they purchase scans, and which professional skills and certifications women expect the person performing the scan to have. In addition, we wanted to investigate whether the women were aware of any professional authorization procedures. Women attending the second trimester malformation scan of the Danish Prenatal Screening Program (n = 645) filled in a questionnaire about their use of non‐medical ultrasound scans. Of these women, 154 (24%) had bought ultrasound scans: 50% wanted to have the fetal health and development checked and 49% wanted to find out the gender of the fetus. In addition, 68% felt that they received an evaluation of the fetal health state and 58% believed that there was legislation demanding a professional authorization needed to perform ultrasound imaging. This study shows that there is a significant demand among pregnant women for commercial ultrasound imaging of their fetus for various reasons. Knowledge of certifications and requirements for legal authorization is, however, sparse.
Nifedipine versus Terbutaline, Tocolytic Effectiveness and Maternal and Neonatal Adverse Effects: A Randomized, Controlled Pilot Trial
Authors: Padovani Tania Regina , Guyatt Gordon , Lopes Luciane Cruz
Published: August 2014

Although previous evidence suggests advantages of nifedipine over terbutaline as tocolytic agents, in some jurisdictions, terbutaline is approved for use and nifedipine is not. In women in preterm labour, we compared the impact of terbutaline versus nifedipine on inhibition of uterine contractions, preterm birth, neonatal sepsis, intracranial haemorrhage or necrotizing enterocolitis, death or admission to a neonatal intensive care unit and maternal adverse reactions. We randomized 32 women to nifedipine and 34 to terbutaline. We found no difference between groups in tocolysis or preterm birth. No serious maternal adverse effects or serious neonatal adverse outcome occurred in either group. Less serious maternal adverse effects less common with terbutaline included flushing (2.94% versus 43.7%) and headache (5.9% versus 31.2%). The administration of terbutaline increased tremor (76.4% versus 0%), nausea (58.8% versus 9.4%) and dizziness (29.4% versus 6.25%). The total number of side effects, and the proportion of women experiencing one or more side effects, proved greater with terbutaline. In this study, terbutaline and nifedipine performed similarly in their tocolytic effects. Each drug has specific side effects, although overall, nifedipine was associated with fewer adverse effects.
Rare Alleles within the CYP2E1 (MEOS System) Could be Associated with Better Short‐Term Health Outcome after Acute Methanol Poisoning
Authors: Hubacek Jaroslav A. , Pelclova Daniela , Seidl Zdenek , Vaneckova Manuela , Klempir Jiri , Ruzicka Evzen , Ridzon Petr , Urban Pavel , Fenclova Zdenka , Petrik Vit , Diblik Pavel , Kuthan Pavel , Miovsky Michal , Janikova Barbara , Adamkova Vera , Zakharov Sergey
Published: August 2014

Genetic polymorphisms influence the metabolism of ethanol and methanol, but the potential effects of genetic predisposition on the clinical course, outcome and short‐term health sequelae of acute methanol poisoning are unknown. To evaluate the role of the MEOS system in methanol poisoning, we analysed the effect of three polymorphisms (RsaI – rs2031920; PstI – rs3813867; insertion/deletion I/D) within the CYP2E1 enzyme (MEOS system) in 50 adult survivors of methanol poisoning and compared their genotype frequencies with 460 controls. The minor allele frequencies of all three polymorphisms were below 5% in both groups. We did not detect significant differences in the genotype frequencies between survivors of methanol poisoning and controls (p = 0.34 for the RsaI variant; p = 0.59 for the PstI variant and p = 0.21 for the I/D polymorphism). The carriers of at least one minor allele in the CYP2E1 gene had less severe clinical symptoms and better short‐term outcome after acute poisoning. Variants within the CYP2E1 gene are likely not significant genetic determinants of acute methanol poisoning (if survivors are analysed), but they may influence the severity of methanol poisoning and its visual/central nervous system (CNS) outcome.
Influence of proton pump inhibitors and VKORC1 mutations on CYP2C9‐mediated dose requirements of vitamin K antagonist therapy: a pilot study
Authors: Brunner‐Ziegler Sophie , Jilma Bernd , Magirr Dominic , Sunder‐Plassmann Raute , Giurgea Georgiana‐Aura , Hammer Alexandra , Margeta Christian , Brunner Martin , Koppensteiner Renate , Mannhalter Christine
Published: August 2014

Interindividual variations in dose requirements of oral vitamin K antagonists (VKA) are attributed to several factors, including genetic variant alleles of vitamin K epoxide reductase complex subunit 1 (VKORC1) and cytochrome P450 2C9 (CYP2C9), but also interaction with co‐medications. In this context, proton pump inhibitor (PPI)‐related alterations of VKA maintenance dose requirements have been published. The present investigation aimed to test for an interaction profile of oral VKA‐therapy and PPIs in relation to the CYP2C9 genotype. Median weekly stable VKA dose requirements over 1 year were recorded in 69 patients. Patients were genotyped for CYP2C9*2, CYP2C9*3, VKORC1c.‐1639G>A and VKORC1c.174‐136C>T and assessed for an association with PPI use and total VKA maintenance dose requirements. PPI users with CYP2C9 genetic variations required significantly lower weekly VKA maintenance doses than those with the wild‐type genotype (t‐test: P = 0·02). In contrast, in subjects without PPI use, the CYP2C9 genotype had no significant influence on oral VKA dose requirements. Further, the combined CYP2C9/VKORC1 genotype was a significant predictor for VKA dose requirements [linear regression: estimate: −1·47, standard error: 0·58 (P = 0·01)]. In conclusion, in carriers of CYP2C9 gene variations, the interference with the VKA metabolism is modified by PPI co‐medication and the VCKORC1 genotype. Preceding knowledge of the genetic profile and the awareness for potentially occurring severe over‐anticoagulation problems under PPI co‐medication could contribute to a safer and personalized VKA pharmacotherapy.
Immunologic assessment and KMT2D mutation detection in Kabuki syndrome
Authors: Lin J.‐L. , Lee W.‐I. , Huang J.‐L. , Chen P. K.‐T. , Chan K.‐C. , Lo L.‐J. , You Y.‐J. , Shih Y.‐F. , Tseng T.‐Y. , Wu M.‐C.
Published: August 2014

Kabuki or Niikawa–Kuroki syndrome (KS) is a rare disorder with multiple malformations and recurrent infections, especially otitis media. This study aimed to investigate the genetic defects in Kabuki syndrome and determine if immune status is related to recurrent otitis media. Fourteen patients from 12 unrelated families were enrolled in the 9‐year study period (2005–2013). All had Kabuki faces, cleft palate, developmental delay, mental retardation, and the short fifth finger. Recurrent otitis media (12/14) and hearing impairment (8/14) were also more common features. Immunologic analysis revealed lower memory CD19+ cells (11/13), lower memory CD4+ cells (8/13), undetectable anti‐HBs antibodies (7/13), and antibody deficiency (7/13), including lower IgA (4), IgG (2), and IgG2 (1). Naïve emigrant lymphocytes, lymphocyte proliferation function, complement activity, and superoxide production in polymorphonuclear cells were all normal. All the patients had KMT2D mutations and 10 novel mutations of R1252X, R1757X,Y1998C, P2550R fs2604X, Q4013X, G5379X, E5425K, R5432X, R5432W, and R5500W. Resembling the phenotype of common variable immunodeficiency, KS patients with antibody deficiency, decreased memory cells, and poor vaccine response increased susceptibility to recurrent otitis media. Large‐scale prospective studies are warranted to determine if regular immunoglobulin supplementation decreases the frequency of otitis media and severity of hearing impairment.
Novel treatment strategies for schizophrenia from improved understanding of genetic risk
Authors: Morris B.J. , Pratt J.A.
Published: August 2014

Recent years have seen significant advances in our understanding of the genetic basis of schizophrenia. In particular, genome‐wide approaches have suggested the involvement of many common genetic variants of small effect, together with a few rare variants exerting relatively large effects. While unequivocal identification of the relevant genes has, for the most part, remained elusive, the genes revealed as potential candidates can in many cases be clustered into functionally related groups which are potentially open to therapeutic intervention. In this review, we summarise this information, focusing on the accumulating evidence that genetic dysfunction at glutamatergic synapses and post‐synaptic signalling complexes contributes to the aetiology of the disease. In particular, there is converging support for involvement of post‐synaptic JNK pathways in disease aetiology. An expansion of our neurobiological knowledge of the basis of schizophrenia is urgently needed, yet some promising novel pharmacological targets can already be discerned.
Translational genomics and head and neck cancer: toward precision medicine
Authors: Razzouk S.
Published: August 2014

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) comprise a wide spectrum of neoplasms with different tumor biologies, prognosis and response to therapies. Current tumor classification and traditional diagnostic methods (e.g. clinical assessment, histopathology) are limited in their capacity to determine prognosis and clinical decision‐making. Despite recent improvements in treatment, the outcome for patients with HNSCC remains poor. Similar to most tumors, several patient‐related factors, (e.g. genetics and environment) and disease‐related factors (e.g. tumor location, TMN staging) play a significant role on survival. Thus, the problem in defining the prognosis is that the clinical course and response to treatment differ considerably among patients. Such interindividual variability is related to the heterogeneity of the tumor, genetic and epigenetic variations, thus reflecting the interaction of multiple biological components that result in a unique phenotype. Integrative genomics are developed to identify the molecular pathways leading to cancer at the individual level and find novel prognostic markers for HNSCC, hence tailoring a treatment accordingly. Such genetic‐based personalized diagnosis allows tumor stratification and implementation of targeted therapy. Modern medicine includes new drugs that disrupt the implicated molecules and their signaling pathways. Here, we summarize the current state of knowledge that elucidates the translation of genetic data into clinical benefit.
Occupations at risk of developing contact allergy to isothiazolinones in Danish contact dermatitis patients: results from a Danish multicentre study (2009–2012)
Authors: Schwensen Jakob F. , Menné Torkil , Andersen Klaus E. , Sommerlund Mette , Johansen Jeanne D.
Published: August 2014

Background

In recent years, the prevalence of contact allergy to isothiazolinones has reached epidemic levels. Few studies have presented data on occupations at risk of developing contact allergy to isothiazolinones.

Objectives

To present demographics and examine risk factors for sensitization to methylisothiazolinone (MI), methylchloroisothiazolinone (MCI) in combination with MI and benzisothiazolinone (BIT) in Danish dermatitis patients.

Materials and methods

A retrospective epidemiological analysis of data from three Danish hospitals departments was conducted. All patients consecutively patch tested with MI, MCI/MI and BIT between 2009 and 2013 were included.

Results

MI contact allergy showed a significantly increased trend in prevalence from 1.8% in 2009 to 4.2% in 2012 (p < 0.001). Females with facial dermatitis mainly drove the increase in 2012. Adjusted logistic regression analysis showed that MI sensitization was significantly associated with occupational exposures, hand and facial dermatitis, age > 40 years, and the occupational groups of tile setters/terrazzo workers, machine operators, and painters. MCI/MI contact allergy was significantly associated with the following high‐risk occupations: painting, welding (blacksmiths), machine operating, and cosmetology. The occupational group of painting was frequent in the group of patients with BIT contact allergy.

Conclusion

Several high‐risk occupations for sensitization to isothiazolinones exist. Regulation on the allowed concentration of isothiazolinones, and especially MI, in both consumer products and industrial products is needed.
De novo use of generic tacrolimus in liver transplantation – a single center experience with one‐yr follow‐up
Authors: Dannhorn E. , Cheung M. , Rodrigues S. , Cooper H. , Thorburn D. , Patch D. , Burroughs A.K. , O'Beirne J.
Published: August 2014

Use of generic tacrolimus in liver transplantation (LT) could result in cost savings. Generic tacrolimus has been shown to be bioequivalent to innovator tacrolimus in healthy volunteers and renal transplant patients. There are limited data on the de novo use of generic tacrolimus in LT.

This study aimed to determine whether the de novo use of generic tacrolimus (Adoport, Sandoz,UK) was associated with differences in outcomes, safety, and cost compared with innovator tacrolimus (Prograf, Astellas, Japan).

Methods

Patients were studied before and after a programmatic change from de novo IS with Prograf to Adoport. Outcomes, tacrolimus levels, doses, and costs were compared for the first‐yr post‐LT.

Results

Ninety‐four patients were studied, 46 Prograf, 48 Adoport. No significant differences in rejection, cytomegalovirus infection, acute kidney injury, sepsis, or graft loss were observed between groups. Tacrolimus costs were significantly reduced with the de novo use of Adoport. Day 14 dose normalized levels in Adoport patients showed significant variation but at the day 30 and one yr, there were no significant differences in the doses or levels of tacrolimus between groups.

Conclusions

Adoport is safe and effective compared to Prograf when used de novo in LT patients. Tacrolimus costs were significantly reduced by the use of Adoport.
Adiponectin predicts MMP‐2 activity independently of obesity
Authors: Miksztowicz Verónica , Fernandez Machulsky Nahuel , Lucero Diego , Fassio Eduardo , Schreier Laura , Berg Gabriela
Published: August 2014

Background

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), especially MMP‐2 and MMP‐9, have been identified in atherosclerotic plaques and have been directly associated with plaque remodelling and vulnerability. Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is related to insulin resistance (IR) and obesity, characterized by changes in plasma levels of inflammatory markers, such as adiponectin and C‐reactive protein (CRP). Our aim was to evaluate the impact of both proteins on MMP‐2 and MMP‐9 behaviour in individuals with IR.

Materials and methods

Plasma MMP‐2 and MMP‐9 activity, adiponectin and hs‐CRP concentration and lipoprotein profile were determined in 52 patients with metabolic syndrome (MS) and 27 controls.

Results

Patients with MS presented significantly higher MMP‐2 activity than controls: 0·95 ± 0·12 vs. 0·77 ± 0·15 relative units (RU) (P < 0·001), while MMP‐9 activity was not detectable. MMP‐2 activity decreased across quartiles of adiponectin, being significantly reduced in individuals with the highest levels of adiponectin in compared with the lowest levels (0·75 ± 0·17 vs. 0·93 ± 0·09 RU, P < 0·005). This difference persisted significant after adjusting by obesity markers. MMP‐2 activity was significantly increased in individuals with the highest levels (G3) compared with those with the lowest levels (G1) of hs‐CRP (0·94 ± 0·12 vs. 0·86 ± 0·12, P = 0·041)

Conclusion

In this study, we observed that adiponectin levels predicted MMP‐2 plasma activity independently of obesity. This finding suggests that the inflammatory process, associated with the highest CVD risk, would be involved in MMPs vascular production.