bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evolution, Development, and Function of the Pulmonary Surfactant System in Normal and Perturbed Environments
Authors: Orgeig Sandra , Morrison Janna L. , Daniels Christopher B.
Published: December 2015

Surfactant lipids and proteins form a surface active film at the air‐liquid interface of internal gas exchange organs, including swim bladders and lungs. The system is uniquely positioned to meet both the physical challenges associated with a dynamically changing internal air‐liquid interface, and the environmental challenges associated with the foreign pathogens and particles to which the internal surface is exposed. Lungs range from simple, transparent, bag‐like units to complex, multilobed, compartmentalized structures. Despite this anatomical variability, the surfactant system is remarkably conserved. Here, we discuss the evolutionary origin of the surfactant system, which likely predates lungs. We describe the evolution of surfactant structure and function in invertebrates and vertebrates. We focus on changes in lipid and protein composition and surfactant function from its antiadhesive and innate immune to its alveolar stability and structural integrity functions. We discuss the biochemical, hormonal, autonomic, and mechanical factors that regulate normal surfactant secretion in mature animals. We present an analysis of the ontogeny of surfactant development among the vertebrates and the contribution of different regulatory mechanisms that control this development. We also discuss environmental (oxygen), hormonal and biochemical (glucocorticoids and glucose) and pollutant (maternal smoking, alcohol, and common “recreational” drugs) effects that impact surfactant development. On the adult surfactant system, we focus on environmental variables including temperature, pressure, and hypoxia that have shaped its evolution and we discuss the resultant biochemical, biophysical, and cellular adaptations. Finally, we discuss the effect of major modern gaseous and particulate pollutants on the lung and surfactant system. © 2016 American Physiological Society.Compr Physiol6:363‐422, 2016.
Fetal and NeonatalHPAAxis
Authors: Wood Charles E. , Walker Claire‐Dominique
Published: December 2015

Stress is an integral part of life. Activation of the hypothalamus‐pituitary‐adrenal (HPA) axis in the adult can be viewed as mostly adaptive to restore homeostasis in the short term. When stress occurs during development, and specifically during periods of vulnerability in maturing systems, it can significantly reprogram function, leading to pathologies in the adult. Thus, it is critical to understand how the HPA axis is regulated during developmental periods and what are the factors contributing to shape its activity and reactivity to environmental stressors. The HPA axis is not a passive system. It can actively participate in critical physiological regulation, inducing parturition in the sheep for instance or being a center stage actor in the preparation of the fetus to aerobic life (lung maturation). It is also a major player in orchestrating mental function, metabolic, and cardiovascular function often reprogrammed by stressors even prior to conception through epigenetic modifications of gametes. In this review, we review the ontogeny of the HPA axis with an emphasis on two species that have been widely studied—sheep and rodents—because they each share many similar regulatory mechanism applicable to our understanding of the human HPA axis. The studies discussed in this review should ultimately inform us about windows of susceptibility in the developing brain and the crucial importance of early preconception, prenatal, and postnatal interventions designed to improve parental competence and offspring outcome. Only through informed studies will our public health system be able to curb the expansion of many stress‐related or stress‐induced pathologies and forge a better future for upcoming generations. © 2016 American Physiological Society.Compr Physiol6:33‐62, 2016.
Mitochondrial Dynamics and Heart Failure
Authors: Knowlton A. A. , Liu T. T.
Published: December 2015

Mitochondrial dynamics, fission and fusion, were first identified in yeast with investigation in heart cells beginning only in the last 5 to 7 years. In the ensuing time, it has become evident that these processes are not only required for healthy mitochondria, but also, that derangement of these processes contributes to disease. The fission and fusion proteins have a number of functions beyond the mitochondrial dynamics. Many of these functions are related to their membrane activities, such as apoptosis. However, other functions involve other areas of the mitochondria, such as OPA1's role in maintaining cristae structure and preventing cytochrome c leak, and its essential (at least a 10 kDa fragment of OPA1) role in mtDNA replication. In heart disease, changes in expression of these important proteins can have detrimental effects on mitochondrial and cellular function. © 2016 American Physiological Society.Compr Physiol6:507‐526, 2016.
Double Jahn–Teller Distortion in AuGe Complexes Leading to a Dual Blue–Orange Emission
Authors: Bojan R. Vilma , López‐de‐Luzuriaga José M. , Monge Miguel , Olmos M. Elena , Echeverría Raquel , Lehtonen Olli , Sundholm Dage
Published: December 2015

Invited for this month's cover are collaborators from the group of José M. López‐de‐Luzuriaga at Universidad de la Rioja, Spain and researchers from University of Helsinki, Finland. The cover picture shows a photograph of a gold–germanium complex that has two emission modes corresponding to two independent triplet excited states. Read the full text of the article at 10.1002/cplu.201500337.
Overall Photoelectrochemical Water Splitting using Tandem Cell under Simulated Sunlight
Authors: Kim Jin Hyun , Kaneko Hiroyuki , Minegishi Tsutomu , Kubota Jun , Domen Kazunari , Lee Jae Sung
Published: December 2015

A stand‐alone photoelectrochemical (PEC) water‐splitting system driven only by sunlight was demonstrated with a tandem‐scheme of Pt/CdS/CuGa3Se5/(Ag,Cu)GaSe2 photocathode and NiOOH/FeOOH/Mo:BiVO4 photoanode in a neutral phosphate buffer solution as an electrolyte. The as‐prepared semi‐transparent Mo:BiVO4 layer allows sunlight to pass through the top photoanode and reach the bottom photocathode. Consequently, the tandem cell showed stoichiometric hydrogen and oxygen evolution with a solar‐to‐hydrogen (STH) conversion efficiency of 0.67 % over 2 h without degradation. The stability and STH efficiency are the highest among similar configuration of PEC tandem cells.
The prevalence of new psychoactive substances in biological material – a three‐year review of casework in Poland
Authors: Adamowicz Piotr , Gieroń Joanna , Gil Dominika , Lechowicz Wojciech , Skulska Agnieszka , Tokarczyk Bogdan
Published: December 2015

New psychoactive substances (NPS) pose a challenge for forensic and clinical toxicologists, as well as for legislators. We present our findings from cases where NPS have been detected in biological material. During the three‐year period 2012–2014 we found NPS in 112 cases (out of 1058 analyzed), with 75 cases in 2014 alone. The prevalence of all NPS (15.1–17.6%) was similar to amphetamine alone that was detected in 15.1–16.5% of cases. The new drugs found belonged to the following classes: cathinones (88%), synthetic cannabinoids (5%), phenethylamines (3%), piperazines and piperidines (3%), arylalkylamines (1%) and other (1%). The drugs detected were (in the order of decreased frequency): 3‐MMC (50), α‐pyrrolidinopentiophenone (α‐PVP) (23), pentedrone (16), 3',4'‐methylenedioxy‐α‐pyrrolidinobutyrophenone (MDPBP) (12), synthetic cannabinoid UR‐144 (7), ethcathinone (5), mephedrone (5), methylenedioxypyrovalerone (MDPV) (4), 4‐methylethcathinone (4‐MEC) (3), buphedrone (3), desoxypipradrol (2‐DPMP) (3), methylone (2) and 2C‐B (2). In single cases, 2‐methylmethcathinone (2‐MMC), 2C‐P, eutylone, 25I‐NBOMe, meta‐chlorophenylpiperazine (mCPP), ephedrone, methiopropamine (MPA), and 5‐(2‐aminopropyl)benzofuran (5‐APB) were found. One NPS was the sole agent in 35% of all cases, and two or more NPS were present in 19% of cases. NPS (one or more) with other conventional drugs (like amphetamines, cannabinoids, cocaine, and benzodiazepines) were detected in most (65%) of the cases. NPS were very often detected in the blood of drivers which was a challenge for toxicologists due to a lack of data on their influence on psychomotor performance. A review of concentrations showed a wide range of values in different types of cases, especially driving under the influence of drugs (DUID) and intoxication. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Palladium(II) Complexes of the Hemilabile Pincer Ligand PPh(o‐C6H4SMe)2 as Highly Active and Recyclable ­Mizoroki–Heck Catalysts
Authors: Luquin Asunción , Castillo Noelia , Cerrada Elena , Merchan Francisco L. , Garrido Julian , Laguna Mariano
Published: December 2015

PdII complexes with PPh(o‐C6H4SMe)2 acting as a pincer ligand in an S,S′,P‐ or S,P‐coordination mode have been synthesized. The complexes include [PdCl2{PPh(o‐C6H4SMe)2}] (1), [Pd(Me)Cl{PPh(o‐C6H4SMe)2}] (2), and [Pd(X){PPh(o‐C6H4SMe)2}]A [A = CF3SO3, X = Cl (3); A = CF3SO3, Me (4); A = PF6, X = Me (5)]. Insertion of CO into the Pd–Me bond of these complexes leads to [Pd(COMe)Cl{PPh(o‐C6H4SMe)2}] (6) and [Pd(COMe){PPh(o‐C6H4SMe)2}]A [A = CF3SO3 (7); A = PF6 (8)]. Some of these complexes are good Mizoroki–Heck catalysts (for the reactions between iodobenzene and methyl acrylate or styrene). The most active catalyst was found to be [Pd(Me)Cl{PPh(o‐C6H4SMe)2}] (2). This catalyst could be retained on a silica gel column, recovered, and reused several times without losing activity.
An Efficient Tertiary Azidation of 1,3‐Dicarbonyl Compounds in Water Catalyzed by Tetrabutylammonium Iodide
Authors: Dhineshkumar Jayaraman , Prabhu Kandikere Ramaiah
Published: December 2015

An efficient azidation of 1,3‐dicarbonyl compounds led to tertiary azides in the presence of tetrabutylammonium iodide (TBAI). TBAI is used as a pre‐catalyst along with aq. tert‐butyl hydroperoxide (TBHP) as an oxidant in aqueous medium. This operationally simple, practical, mild and green method provides an opportunity to synthesize a variety of azidated β‐keto esters, amides, and ketones in good yields.
Copper‐Catalyzed Direct Synthesis of 1,2,4‐Oxadiazoles from Amides and Organic Nitriles by Oxidative N–O Bond Formation
Authors: Kuram Malleswara Rao , Kim Woo Gyum , Myung Kyungjae , Hong Sung You
Published: December 2015

Herein, we report the first Cu‐catalyzed one‐step method for the synthesis of 1,2,4‐oxadiazoles from stable, less toxic, and readily available amides and organic nitriles by a rare oxidative N–O bond formation using O2 as sole oxidant. This method has a broad substrate scope and a good tolerance for diverse functional groups. Moreover, the synthetic utility of this method is highlighted by the synthesis of biologically active 3,5‐disubstituted derivatives.
Biochemical and genetic toxicity of the ionic liquid 1-octyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride on earthworms (Eisenia fetida)
Authors: Guo Yingying , Liu Tong , Zhang Jun , Wang Jinhua , Wang Jun , Zhu Lusheng , Yang Jinhui
Published: December 2015

Ionic liquids also known as “green solvents,” are used in many fields. However, the dispersion of ionic liquids in soil systems is likely to cause damage to soil organisms. The objective of the present study was to investigate the toxicity of 1-octyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride ([C8mim]Cl) on earthworms (Eisenia fetida). For this purpose, earthworms were exposed to different concentrations of [C8mim]Cl (0 mg/kg, 5 mg/kg, 10 mg/kg, 20 mg/kg, and 40 mg/kg artificial soil) and sampled at 7 d, 14 d, 21 d, and 28 d. The results indicated that [C8mim]Cl could cause an accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in earthworms, even at the lowest concentration (5 mg/kg). Compared with the controls, during the [C8mim]Cl exposure period, the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) decreased and then increased, whereas the activities of peroxidase (POD) and glutathione S-transferase (GST) increased. These changes in the activities of antioxidant enzymes and GST indicated that [C8mim]Cl could induce oxidative damage in earthworms. The malondialdehyde content was increased by high levels of [C8mim]Cl at 14 d and 28 d, indicating that [C8mim]Cl could lead to lipid peroxidation in earthworms. In addition, the degree of DNA damage significantly increased with increasing [C8mim]Cl concentrations and exposure time. The present study shows that [C8mim]Cl caused biochemical and genetic toxicity in earthworms. Environ Toxicol Chem 2016;35:411–418. © 2015 SETAC
Serum Visfatin Levels in Ulcerative Colitis
Authors: Dogan Serkan , Guven Kadri , Celikbilek Mehmet , Deniz Kemal , Saraymen Berkay , Gursoy Sebnem
Published: December 2015

Background

Previous studies have suggested that adipokines play a role in inflammatory bowel disease by inducing proinflammatory cytokines, but it is uncertain whether visfatin is causally involved in ulcerative colitis (UC). We evaluated visfatin levels in patients who presented with UC flares before and after treatment.

Methods

In this cohort study, we assessed 31 patients with UC in the activation period and remission in the same patients after treatment, and a healthy control group, consisting of 29 persons, at a single academic medical centre between 2010 and 2013. Disease severity was evaluated clinically using Trulove and Witt's criteria.

Results

Serum visfatin levels did not vary according to the extent of disease and were significantly higher in patients in the activation period (7.77 ± 2.41 ng/ml) than in remission (6.18 ± 2.04 ng/ml) and the healthy controls (6.54 ± 2.20 ng/ml; P < 0.01 and < 0.05, respectively). In a comparison of patients in the inactive period with the control group, there was no statistically significant difference (P > 0.05). To assess activation of the disease, a visfatin cut‐off point for active UC was determined as 6.40, with sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV) and negative predictive values (NPV) of 72%, 52%, 66.7% (43.0–85.4) and 50.0% (29.1–70.9), respectively.

Conclusions

The visfatin level was higher in the active group than in post‐treatment remission and the healthy control group. Sensitivity and specificity were similar to other inflammatory markers for assessing clinical activity, which did not improve clinical outcomes in patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). These findings did not provide a rationale for assessment of UC activation.
The Value of Serum Prolidase Activity in Progression of Microalbuminuria in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Sabuncu Tevfik , Boduroglu Omer , Eren Mehmet Ali , Torun Ayse Nur , Aksoy Nurten
Published: December 2015

Background

Prolidase is a cytosolic exopeptidase that plays a pivotal role in collagen turnover. Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is associated with structural changes in glomerular basement membrane accompanied with increased amounts of collagen. Prolidase is known to be abundant in kidney and collagen accumulation is increased in DN, so we aimed to determine the value of serum prolidase activity (SPA) in predicting the progression of nephropathy in type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM).

Methods

Thirty type 2 DM patients having microalbuminuria (microalbuminuric group), 30 type 2 DM patients without albuminuria (normoalbuminuric group), and 28 healthy controls (control group) were enrolled. Study groups had similar age, sex distribution, and body mass index (BMI).

Results

Metabolic parameters, SPA and urinary microalbumin were determined. SPA was significantly higher in microalbuminuric group when compared with normoalbuminuric and control groups (P = 0.05 and P < 0.001, respectively). Triglyceride levels were significantly higher and high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL‐C) levels were significantly lower in microalbuminuric group compared to control group (Both P < 0.05). SPA showed a negative correlation with HDL‐C level and a positive correlation with urinary albumin excretion (r = –0.219, P < 0.05 and r = 0.39, P < 0.001 respectively). In regression analysis, albumin excretion was the sole parameter influencing SPA.

Conclusion

SPA appears to be higher in type 2 DM patients having microalbuminuria compared to patients without microalbuminuria and healthy controls. The pathophysiological role and the significance of SPA in predicting DN need to be further evaluated.
Hospital length of stay and all‐cause 30‐day readmissions among high‐risk medicaid beneficiaries
Authors: Chopra Ishveen , Wilkins Tricia Lee , Sambamoorthi Usha
Published: December 2015

This study examined the association between index hospitalization characteristics and the risk of all‐cause 30‐day readmission among high‐risk Medicaid beneficiaries using multilevel analyses. A retrospective cohort with a baseline and a follow‐up period was used. The study population consisted of Medicaid beneficiaries (21–64 years old) with selected chronic conditions, continuous fee‐for‐service enrollment through the observation period, and at least 1 inpatient encounter during the follow‐up period (N = 15,806). The outcome of 30‐day readmission was measured using inpatient admissions within 30‐days from the discharge date of the first observed hospitalization. Key independent variables included length of stay, reason for admission, and month of index hospitalization (seasonality). Multilevel logistic regression that accounted for beneficiaries nested within counties was used to examine this association, after controlling for patient‐level and county‐level characteristics. In this study population, 16.7% had all‐cause 30‐day readmissions. Adults with greater lengths of stay during the index hospitalization were more likely to have 30‐day readmissions (adjusted odds ratio [AOR]: 1.03, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.02‐1.04). Adults who were hospitalized for cardiovascular conditions (AOR: 1.20, 95% CI: 1.08‐1.33), diabetes (AOR: 1.23, 95% CI: 1.10‐1.39), cancer (AOR: 1.55, 95% CI: 1.26‐1.90), and mental health conditions (AOR: 2.17, 95% CI: 1.98‐2.38) were more likely to have 30‐day readmissions compared to those without these conditions. Journal of Hospital Medicine 2016;11:283–288. © 2015 Society of Hospital Medicine
Social Identity Development and the Situation of Scientists and Engineers as New Leaders
Authors: Racine William P.
Published: December 2015

The current study examined the retrospective experience of scientists and engineers as they became new unit leaders in science and engineering firms. The goal of the study was to propose a theory that would lead to a better understanding of how scientists and engineers can be successful in their evolution into new leaders. The evolution was considered in the context of Robledo, Peterson, and Mumford's (2012) 3‐Vectors Model to appreciate the situation in which new leaders in scientific and engineering firms find themselves. The evolution was then considered in the perspective of Social Identity Theory to understand the relational development of the scientist or engineer as a new leader. The theory that emerged was that without a sound understanding of both the situation and adaptation of a new sociotechnical identity, achieving success in the leadership role is, at best, uncertain. Identity development and situational understanding are both necessary to facilitate and expedite the transition of scientists and engineers into the new leadership role. The transition from staff‐level scientist to leader can be made more productive through individual and organizational action espoused herein. The implications reveal many aspects of importance for organizations, individuals, researchers, and educators in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) and similar technical disciplines.
Can Leaders Transform Humiliation Into a Creative Force?
Authors: Jogdand Yashpal , Sinha Chetan
Published: December 2015

The intractable group conflicts, mass killings, and genocides around the world attest to the role of humiliation as a negative force causing violence and destruction. Based on the analysis of the speeches of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, the most important leader of Dalits (ex‐untouchables) in India, it is suggested that leaders possess the capacity for creative use of humiliation. The creative use of humiliation is made possible by the innovation in constructing social identities involved in humiliation. Creative leadership can be an important catalyst that can transform humiliation into a positive force for social change.
Leadership and Creativity Are Important for Undergraduate Students: Our Journey
Authors: Gugerty Paige , Teeven Brendan
Published: December 2015

Ever wonder how an effective leadership program looks and feels to undergraduate students? As recent graduates of a program combining leadership, creativity, and innovation, we will explore how a challenging program helps students grow personally and professionally. The goal of the current article is to articulate what we see are the benefits of teaching leadership, creativity, and innovation to undergraduates. While crafting the article, the primary methods were observation and reflection as well as discussions on shared and unique experiences in the leadership program. Insights on steps to create and develop strong, effective leadership programs for more undergraduate students is provided.
Diffusion‐weighted imaging: Apparent diffusion coefficient histogram analysis for detecting pathologic complete response to chemoradiotherapy in locally advanced rectal cancer
Authors: Choi Moon Hyung , Oh Soon Nam , Rha Sung Eun , Choi Joon‐Il , Lee Sung Hak , Jang Hong Seok , Kim Jun‐Gi , Grimm Robert , Son Yohan
Published: December 2015

Purpose

To investigate the usefulness of apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) values derived from histogram analysis of the whole rectal cancer as a quantitative parameter to evaluate pathologic complete response (pCR) on preoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Materials and Methods

We enrolled a total of 86 consecutive patients who had undergone surgery for rectal cancer after neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (CRT) at our institution between July 2012 and November 2014. Two radiologists who were blinded to the final pathological results reviewed post‐CRT MRI to evaluate tumor stage. Quantitative image analysis was performed using T2‐weighted and diffusion‐weighted images independently by two radiologists using dedicated software that performed histogram analysis to assess the distribution of ADC in the whole tumor.

Results

After surgery, 16 patients were confirmed to have achieved pCR (18.6%). All parameters from pre‐ and post‐CRT ADC histogram showed good or excellent agreement between two readers. The minimum, 10th, 25th, 50th, and 75th percentile and mean ADC from post‐CRT ADC histogram were significantly higher in the pCR group than in the non‐pCR group for both readers. The 25th percentile value from ADC histogram in post‐CRT MRI had the best diagnostic performance for detecting pCR, with an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.796.

Conclusion

Low percentile values derived from the ADC histogram analysis of rectal cancer on MRI after CRT showed a significant difference between pCR and non‐pCR groups, demonstrating the utility of the ADC value as a quantitative and objective marker to evaluate complete pathologic response to preoperative CRT in rectal cancer. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2016;44:212–220.
Analysis of ERA‐Interim‐driven COSMO‐CLM simulations over Middle East – North Africa domain at different spatial resolutions
Authors: Bucchignani E. , Mercogliano P. , Rianna G. , Panitz H.‐J.
Published: December 2015

This study aimed to assess the capabilities of the regional climate model (RCM) COSMO‐CLM in reproducing the main climate features of the Middle East and Northern Africa (MENA) domain. Two ERA‐Interim‐driven simulations were performed at 0.44° and 0.22° spatial resolution for the period 1979–2011 with an optimized model configuration. Model response has been analysed in terms of low level circulation, 2‐m temperature, precipitation and cloud cover. Evaluation was conducted with respect to a combination of available ground observations, satellite products and reanalysis. Results reveal a good accuracy of the model in reproducing the circulation and a satisfactory representation of temperature, compared with other state‐of‐art RCMs, confirming that the albedo and aerosol parameterization schemes adopted lead to a remarkable improvement in model performances. The effects of increasing spatial resolution on the quality of the results have also been investigated. A comparison between the two simulations revealed that improvements with the resolution increase have been achieved for the temperature interannual variability, for monthly precipitation mean values, for cloud cover and for the representation of extreme precipitation events.
Investing in Durable Assets to Achieve Superior Performance: Restoring Tiger Balm's Roar
Authors: Pangarkar Nitin
Published: December 2015

Investing in durable assets—assets whose value lasts well beyond the current period—strengthens profit streams, creates barriers to imitation, and contributes to superior performance in the long term. The experiences of such companies as Singapore Airlines, Canon, and Coca‐Cola highlight the three types of investments that can be used to build durable assets and the importance of doing so. A detailed analysis of the case of Tiger Balm, a venerable Singapore‐based brand that is thriving despite 20 years of neglect between 1971 and 1991, identifies some of the factors that can lead to under‐investment in durable assets. It also underscores the value of emphasizing the long‐lasting contributors to organizational success, particularly in marketing‐intensive industries. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Tchibo Goes Global: Implementing a Hybrid Franchising Strategy at Germany's Leading Coffee Retailer
Authors: Alon Ilan , Lattemann Christoph
Published: December 2015

Hailed as one of the most successful business models for expansion in the Western world, franchising enables the owner of a brand (the franchiser) to overcome scarce resources and the problems of delegated responsibility by making the franchisee a residual claimant on profits. Tchibo, Germany's leading coffee retailer, has created a hybrid commission‐agent model of franchising, whereby the franchisee contributes a small investment but does not pay any start‐up costs and receives a minimum salary plus a commission on sales. A look at the history and development of Tchibo's hybrid franchising model and its internationalization strategies suggests lessons for other organizations seeking to expand their operations into rural and global markets. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Let There Be Light: Building Strategic Planning Capability
Authors: Recardo Ronald J.
Published: December 2015

Although often confused with each other, financial forecasting and strategic planning significantly differ. A case study of a manufacturing company reveals the value of developing a strategic planning process focused on data collection and targeted analysis. With the guidance of consultants, the organization's leaders developed a multiyear strategic plan that included a comprehensive analysis of the firm's industry, market, and competitors; identification, prioritization, and selection of growth platforms; and detailed action plans for executing the strategic plan. Using a fast‐cycle approach, they were able to not only design a strategic planning process, but also develop and begin implementing a new strategic plan in only four months. As a result of their efforts, the company is well positioned for competitive differentiation and rapid growth. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The Corporate Social Entrepreneur: From Concept to Practice
Authors: Zhang Haixin , Zhang Mengying
Published: December 2015

Over the past two decades, enterprises of all stripes have come to view corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives as a source of competitive advantage rather as a drain on financial resources. Against this background, research attention has increasingly been paid to the role of corporate social entrepreneurs in accelerating CSR efforts. Acting as social entrepreneurs in for‐profit organizations, corporate social entrepreneurs are at the forefront of some of the most effective CSR efforts around the world. An evaluation of various ways of engaging in social undertakings leads to a precise definition of corporate social entrepreneurs and a model encompassing the dimensions of motive, opportunity realization, and resource cooptation. Further exploration reveals the environmental factors both within and outside corporations that can promote a new approach to achieving organizational goals: expanding the role of businesses in securing the well‐being of the communities in which they operate. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Rapid extraction and determination of 25 bioactive constituents in Alpinia oxyphylla using microwave extraction with ultra high performance liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Sun Zhi , Kong Xiangzhen , Zuo Lihua , Kang Jian , Hou Lei , Zhang Xiaojian
Published: December 2015

A novel and rapid microwave extraction and ultra high performance liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry method was developed and validated for the simultaneous determination of 25 bioactive constituents (including two new constituents) in Fructus Alpinia oxyphylla. The optimized conditions of the microwave extraction was a microwave power of 300 W, extraction temperature of 80°C, solvent‐to‐solid ratio of 30 mL/g and extraction time of 8 min. Separation was achieved on a Waters ACQUITY UPLC® HSS C18 column (2.1 mm× 50 mm, 1.8 μm) using gradient elution with a mobile phase consisting of acetonitrile and 1 mM ammonium acetate at a flow rate of 0.2 mL/min. This is the first report of the simultaneous determination of 25 bioactive constituents in Fructus Alpinia oxyphylla by ultra high performance liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry. The method was validated with good linearity, acceptable precision and accuracy. The validated method was successfully applied to determine the contents of 25 bioactive constituents in Fructus Alpinia oxyphylla from different sources and the analysis results were classified by hierarchical cluster analysis, which indicated the effect of different cultivation regions on the contents of constituents. This study provides powerful and practical guidance in the quality control of Alpinia oxyphylla and lays the foundation for further research of Alpinia oxyphylla.
Prospective study of vocal fold function after loss of the neuromonitoring signal in thyroid surgery: The International Neural Monitoring Study Group's POLT study
Authors: Schneider Rick , Randolph Gregory , Dionigi Gianlorenzo , Barczyński Marcin , Chiang Feng‐Yu , Triponez Frédéric , Vamvakidis Kyriakos , Brauckhoff Katrin , Musholt Thomas J. , Almquist Martin , Innaro Nadia , Jimenez‐Garcia Antonio , Kraimps Jean‐Louis , Miyauchi Akira , Wojtczak Beata , Donatini Gianluca , Lombardi Davide , Müller Uwe , Pezzullo Luciano , Ratia Tomas , Van Slycke Sam , Nguyen Thanh Phuong , Lorenz Kerstin , Sekulla Carsten , Machens Andreas , Dralle Henning
Published: December 2015

Objectives/Hypothesis

Intraoperative neuromonitoring identifies recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) injury and gives prognostic information regarding postoperative glottic function. Loss of the neuromonitoring signal (LOS) signifies segmental type 1 or global type 2 RLN injury. This study aimed at identifying risk factors for RLN injury and determining vocal fold (VF) function initially and 6 months after definitive LOS.

Study Design

Prospective study encompassing 21 hospitals from 13 countries.

Methods

Included in this study were patients with persistent intraoperative LOS.

Results

At first postoperative laryngoscopy, early VF palsy was present in 94 of all 115 patients with LOS (81.7%): in 53 of 56 patients (94.6%) with type 1 injury and 41 of 59 patients (69.5%) with type 2 injury. In LOS type 1, women outnumbered men >5‐fold. Traction produced LOS type 1 in 38 of 56 patients (67.9%) and LOS type 2 in 54 of 59 patients (91.5%). Course of the RLN posterior and/or anterior to the inferior thyroid artery, extralaryngeal branching, or tuberculum of Zuckerkandl did not increase VF palsy rates. Permanent VF palsy rates were also lower (P = .661) after LOS type 2 than after LOS type 1: 6.8% (four of 59 patients) versus 10.7% (six of 56 patients). Intraoperative administration of steroids did not diminish postoperative VF palsy rates.

Conclusions

LOS type 1 entails more severe nerve damage than LOS type 2, affecting women disproportionately. Both LOS types, being primarily associated with traction injury, are unaffected by variant neck anatomy in expert hands and unresponsive to steroids.

Level of Evidence

2b Laryngoscope, 126:1260–1266, 2016
Automatic digitization of pluviograph strip charts
Authors: Jaklič Aleš , Šajn Luka , Derganc Gašper , Peer Peter
Published: December 2015

An algorithm for automatic digitization of pluviograph strip charts is presented. The rainfall signal is incrementally extracted from the scanned image of a strip chart by combining the moving average method and the curve edge following method. The mechanical properties of float‐based rain gauge were used as constraints in the algorithm design. The algorithm was tested on 58 strip chart images. The comparison between the data derived from the algorithm and the data from the Slovenian Environment Agency shows that the algorithm produces an accurate rainfall time series except for the charts that contain ink smudges. Thus, the algorithm is well suited as a main component of an interactive system that would enable visual inspection of the detected rainfall curve and its possible adjustment.
Passive radiofrequency shimming in the thighs at 3 Tesla using high permittivity materials and body coil receive uniformity correction
Authors: Brink Wyger M. , Versluis Maarten J. , Peeters Johannes M. , Börnert Peter , Webb Andrew G.
Published: December 2015

Purpose

To explore the effects of high permittivity dielectric pads on the transmit and receive characteristics of a 3 Tesla body coil centered at the thighs, and their implications on image uniformity in receive array applications.

Theory and Methods

Transmit and receive profiles of the body coil with and without dielectric pads were simulated and measured in healthy volunteers. Parallel imaging was performed using sensitivity encoding (SENSE) with and without pads. An intensity correction filter was constructed from the measured receive profile of the body coil.

Results

Measured and simulated data show that the dielectric pads improve the transmit homogeneity of the body coil in the thighs, but decrease its receive homogeneity, which propagates into reconstruction algorithms in which the body coil is used as a reference. However, by correcting for the body coil reception profile this effect can be mitigated.

Conclusion

Combining high permittivity dielectric pads with an appropriate body coil receive sensitivity filter improves the image uniformity substantially compared with the situation without pads. Magn Reson Med 76:1951–1956, 2016. © 2015 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine
An Inside‐Out Marketing Strategy for Innovation among Human Service Nonprofits in South Korea
Authors: Choi Sangmi
Published: December 2015

In the increasingly competitive nonprofit market, innovation may be the only choice for survival among human service nonprofits. Considering the importance of service encounters and high dependence on human resources, internal marketing has potential as a management strategy to improve innovative activities in human service nonprofits. To examine the effect of internal marketing strategy focusing on employees, this study investigates the mediating effect of customer orientation in the pathway from internal marketing to innovation. The findings from 258 community‐based social service centers in South Korea support the positive impact of internal marketing on customer orientation and innovation, although the significant evidence for the mediating effect of customer orientation is not found. The current study suggests implications for practice and future research.
Pregnancy with hypoplastic left lung complicated by pneumothorax and pulmonary embolism
Authors: Zainudin Lily D. , Abdul Hafidz Muhammad I. , Zakaria Ahmad F. , Mohd Zim Mohd A. , Ismail Ahmad I. , Abdul Rani Mohammed F.
Published: December 2015

We report a case of a 34‐year‐old lady with past history of asthma and pulmonary tuberculosis, who presented 5 weeks pregnant with acute dyspnea. Her chest X‐ray showed left‐sided complete lung collapse and concomitant right‐sided pneumothorax. The pneumothorax was initially managed conservatively with a chest tube but due to its persistence despite suction, was subsequently changed to a PneumostatTM, with which she was later discharged. She had a normal echocardiography (ejection fraction [EF] 67%) at 5 weeks of gestation but developed pulmonary hypertension (EF 55%, pulmonary arterial pressure 40.7 mmHg) as the pregnancy progressed. She delivered a healthy baby at 35 weeks via elective lower section caesarean section with spinal anesthesia. We followed her up postnatally and noted the presence of left‐sided pulmonary embolism, hypoplastic left lung, and left pulmonary artery. The management of this complex case involved a multidisciplinary effort between general medical, respiratory, obstetric, and cardiothoracic teams.
Economic Valuation of the Global Burden of Cleft Disease Averted by a Large Cleft Charity
Authors: Poenaru Dan , Lin Dan , Corlew Scott
Published: December 2015

Background

This study attempts to quantify the burden of disease averted through the global surgical work of a large cleft charity, and estimate the economic impact of this effort over a 10‐year period.

Methods

Anonymized data of all primary cleft lip and cleft palate procedures in the Smile Train database were analyzed and disability‐adjusted life years (DALYs) calculated using country‐specific life expectancy tables, established disability weights, and estimated success of surgery and residual disability probabilities; multiple age weighting and discounting permutations were included. Averted DALYs were calculated and gross national income (GNI) per capita was then multiplied by averted DALYs to estimate economic gains.

Results

548,147 primary cleft procedures were performed in 83 countries between 2001 and 2011. 547,769 records contained complete data available for the study; 58 % were cleft lip and 42 % cleft palate. Averted DALYs ranged between 1.46 and 4.95 M. The mean economic impact ranged between USD 5510 and 50,634 per person. This corresponded to a global economic impact of between USD 3.0B and 27.7B USD, depending on the DALY and GNI values used. The estimated cost of providing these procedures based on an average reimbursement rate was USD 197M (0.7–6.6 % of the estimated impact).

Conclusions

The immense economic gain realized through procedures focused on a small proportion of the surgical burden of disease highlights the importance and cost‐effectiveness of surgical treatment globally. This methodology can be applied to evaluate interventions for other conditions, and for evidence‐based health care resource allocation.
Demystifying the Sundarban tiger: novel application of conventional population estimation methods in a unique ecosystem
Authors: Roy Manjari , Qureshi Qamar , Naha Dipanjan , Sankar Kalyanasundaram , Gopal Rajesh , Jhala Yadvendradev Vikramsinh
Published: December 2015

Conserving large populations with unique adaptations is essential for minimizing extinction risks. Sundarban mangroves (>10,000 km2) are the only mangrove inhabited by tigers. Baseline information about this tiger population is lacking due to its man‐eating reputation and logistic difficulties of sampling. Herein, we adapt photographic capture‐mark‐recapture (CMR) and distance sampling to estimate tiger and prey densities. We placed baited camera stations in a typical mangrove in 2010 and 2012. We used telemetry based tiger home‐range radius (5.73 km, SE 0.72 km) to estimate effective trapping area (ETA). An effort of 407 and 1073 trap nights were exerted to photocapture 10 and 22 unique tigers in 2010 and 2012. We accounted for use of bait by modelling behaviour and heterogeneity effects in program MARK and secr package in program R. Using traditional CMR, tiger number was estimated at 11 (SE 2) and density at 4.07 (SE range 3.09–5.17) in 2010 while in 2012, tiger number was 24 (SE 3) and density 4.63 (SE range 3.92–5.40) tigers/100 km2. With likelihood based spatially explicit CMR, tiger densities were estimated at 4.08 (SE 1.51) in 2010 and 5.81 (SE 1.24) tigers/100 km2 in 2012. Using distance sampling along water channels, we estimated chital density at 5.24/km2, SE 1.23 which could potentially support 4.68 tigers/100 km2 [95 % CI (3.92, 5.57)]. Our estimates suggest that Sundarban tiger population is one of the largest in the world and therefore merits high conservation status.
Discovery and development of surotomycin for the treatment of Clostridium difficile
Authors: Knight-Connoni Victoria , Mascio Carmela , Chesnel Laurent , Silverman Jared
Published: December 2015

The primary challenge for treating Clostridium difficile infections (CDI) is maintenance of clinical response after the end of treatment (sustained clinical response). Disease recurrence following a positive clinical response occurs in approximately 6–25 % of patients after the first episode and in up to 65 % for subsequent recurrences. Surotomycin, a novel cyclic lipopeptide antibiotic with a core derived by Streptomyces roseosporus fermentation, disrupts C. difficile cellular membrane activity in both logarithmic and stationary phases and minimally disturbs normal gastrointestinal microbiota because of its lack of activity against Gram-negative anaerobes and facultative anaerobes. Preclinical and clinical evidence indicate that surotomycin has low oral bioavailability, allowing gastrointestinal tract concentrations to greatly exceed its minimum inhibitory concentration for C. difficile. Surotomycin is well tolerated and effective in hamster models of CDI. Phase 2 clinical evidence suggests that surotomycin (250 mg twice daily) is an effective CDI treatment, with statistically lower recurrence rates than vancomycin.
Analysis of wood thrush (Hylocichla mustelina) movement patterns to explain the spatial structure of American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius) populations
Authors: Elza Michael C. , Slover Christina , McGraw James B.
Published: December 2015

American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius) is America's premier wild‐harvested, medicinal plant that inhabits the forest understory of eastern deciduous forests. Recent research revealed that birds, particularly wood thrushes (Hylocichla mustelina), disperse ginseng seeds by regurgitating viable seeds 15–37 min after consuming the berries. We carried out two studies to examine the potential effect of thrushes on spatial dispersion patterns of ginseng. First, to analyze how far wood thrushes could disperse seeds, two wood thrushes were outfitted with radio transmitters and tracked for multiple days. Second, for 28 natural populations of ginseng, we created a clustering index to quantify to what degree populations were structured into spatially separated units. To further detect spatial impacts of thrushes, we analyzed inter‐cluster distances and the overall spread of ginseng populations. Over the time period in which wood thrushes retain ginseng in their guts, the seeds would be dispersed a mean distance of 15.2–21.7 m. The observed distances ranged from 0–96.6 m. These distances were comparable to the overall spread metric for ginseng populations with wood thrushes, which had increased spacing in comparison to those without wood thrushes. The mean dispersion index differed for populations with and without wood thrushes. It is imperative to understand the interaction between wood thrushes and ginseng to facilitate conservation, as both species are experiencing population declines. Dispersal of seeds by wood thrushes could play an important role in allowing species such as ginseng to respond to climate change, deer browse, overharvesting, and other environmental stresses.
Re-evaluating the Valence Model of Political Choice
Authors: Evans Geoffrey , Chzhen Kat
Published: December 2015

The influential valence model of voting developed over the last decade by the British Election Study (BES) team assumes that party and leadership performance evaluations have a causal impact on party choice. An alternative perspective argues that such performance evaluations are instead the consequences of party choice. This article examines the analytical and empirical underpinnings of the BES valence model and compares it to the party-driven approach. To do so, it estimates cross-lagged structural equation models of the association between Labour Party preference and evaluations of the Labour government's performance during the 2005–10 British electoral cycle. It shows that party preference has a stronger effect on performance evaluations than vice versa; performance evaluations have no significant effect on party preference toward the end of the electoral cycle. The study also finds that, contrary to claims made concerning their merits as simplifying heuristics, performance assessments have no impact on short-term movements in party choice for less politically attentive voters. To a substantial degree, evaluations of party performance express—rather than explain—party choice, and would appear to have limited merit as simplifying heuristics.
Hunting the Snark: A Reply to “Re-Evaluating Valence Models of Political Choice”
Authors: Whiteley Paul , Clarke Harold , Sanders David , Stuart Marianne
Published: December 2015

This paper responds to Evans and Kat’s critique of the valence politics model of electoral choice. Their critique is deficient in several respects. First, the authors do not test the valence politics model, which is motivated by a theory of voting rather than a claim about the relationship between generalized measures of “party preference” and “party performance.” Second, Evans and Kat do not provide theoretical grounding for partisanship, which they claim is strongly exogenous to other variables of interest. Third, there are several specification and testing problems with their structural equation model. We study the properties of the valence model using a vector error correction model of aggregate monthly survey data gathered throughout the New Labour Era. Consistent with theoretical expectations, key valence politics variables constitute a powerful cointegrated system in which the dynamics of partisanship are endogenous to other variables in the system.
Beyond Valence: Estimating Models of Party Choice Without Resort to Ecological Fallacy or Unfounded Causal Assumptions. A Reply to Whiteley et al.
Authors: Evans Geoffrey , Chzhen Kat
Published: December 2015

Whiteley et al. criticize our re-analysis of the valence model of party choice. In reply, we argue that they are mistaken with regard to their understanding of some of the claims made in our paper and, in one instance, the variables included in the analysis. We also point to flaws in their interpretation of the distinction between weak and contemporaneous endogeneity and the assumptions of their vector error correction model. Their argument privileging aggregate analysis introduces predictable inferential problems and also, it might be suggested, potentially casts doubt on their own research, which uses individual-level analysis to make the case for the valence model. For these reasons, we see no reason to moderate the negative implications of our analysis for the validity of the model.
New Conditions for the Existence of Infinitely Many Solutions for a Quasi-Linear Problem
Authors: Faraci Francesca , Farkas Csaba
Published: December 2015

In this paper we study a quasi-linear elliptic problem coupled with Dirichlet boundary conditions. We propose a new set of assumptions ensuring the existence of infinitely many solutions.