bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
LIFE: an integrated view of meta organizational process for vitality
Authors: Bishwas Sumant Kumar , . Sushil
Published: June 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to develop an integrated framework for achieving high organization vitality by exploring the concept of vitality, identifying the effect of some of the important processes on vitality issue, and interrelationships of organization vitalization processes.

Design/methodology/approach

– This study is based on an integrated approach of exploratory and empirical research. The exploratory phase includes review of literature and secondary caselets study. Total interpretive structural modeling (TISM) method has been used for developing the conceptual framework that reflects the interrelationships between the identified processes; learning, innovation, flexibility, and entrepreneurship with organization vitality. The developed conceptual framework has been tested using empirical research. Regression analysis has been conducted on 78 sample to find the significance of the relationships among the discussed processes.

Findings

– In this study, initially, a conceptual framework has been developed using TISM. Further, the conceptual framework has been tested through empirical research. This framework can be used as a guiding tool for better implementation of the discussed processes and to achieve high organization vitality considering it in a holistic manner.

Research limitations/implications

– This study is limited up to development of a framework that can be further tested on specific industry using empirical data or conducting a detail case study. This study can be taken as a base for developing thinking on vitality and vitalization processes for further research.

Practical implications

– The paper highlights the organization vitality concept, integration issue of meta organizational processes, and how the vitality can be achieved by integrating the critical organizational processes. The outcome of this study may impact up to a significant extent by focussing in the right direction and developing some policy or providing direction, considering the results of this study toward achieving high organization vitality.

Originality/value

– The developed conceptual framework is a unique contribution in literature on the integration aspect of the processes that are critical for achieving high vitality. This paper explores organization vitality issue and process integration, and opens a gate for future research in this direction.
Motivation and the academic – where the drivers sit
Authors: Johnston Alan
Published: June 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to investigate the key drivers for motivation within a small team of academics within a relatively small UK university.

Design/methodology/approach

– The research follows a combined interpretivist and ethnographic stance and using a mixed methods approach.

Findings

– The research identifies that fundamentally academics are driven by the desire for expertise and a search for meaning, while material reward and a need for power play a low significance in their forces. Also increase in managerialism has led to reductions in motivation.

Research limitations/implications

– The paper provides a limited focus due to the nature of being a small scale study.

Practical implications

– The paper considers the drivers which motivate academics. Managers and HR departments may consider approaches to managing and leading individuals to achieve improved organisational performance.

Originality/value

– The paper focuses on motivational drivers within the academy.
The mediating role of organizational identification in the relationship between qualitative job insecurity, OCB and job performance
Authors: Callea Antonino , Urbini Flavio , Chirumbolo Antonio
Published: June 2016

Purpose

– Employees need to feel secure to perform their job effectively, therefore job insecurity has an effect on organizational citizenship behaviour (OCB) and job performance; however, some organizational attitudes may reduce these negative effects. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the mediating role of organizational identification (OID), as a process underlying the relationship between qualitative job insecurity, OCB and job performance.

Design/methodology/approach

– Using social exchange theory (SET) and social identification theory (SIT), this study reports the responses of 201 white and blue collar Italian employees. Data were collected through a self-report questionnaire that used standard scales on qualitative job insecurity, OID, OCB and job performance.

Findings

– Results of structural equation modelling revealed that the effect of job insecurity on OCB and job performance was completely mediated by OID. Fit indices of mediated model are very good and indirect effects, by bootstrapping, are significant.

Research limitations/implications

– The research design was cross-sectional, and thus, cause-effect relationships cannot be discerned.

Practical implications

– Organizations may address HRM policies to reduce job insecurity (e.g. through actions to organizational communication), and to increase OID (e.g. involving workers to the decision-making process and promoting team work).

Originality/value

– For the first time in a Western context, OID was tested as mediator in order to explain the relationship between job insecurity, OCB and job performance. Furthermore, Drawing on SET, this study tried to integrate SIT to explain behavioural responses to job insecurity.
The importance of fostering alignment to ensure sustainable nation building
Authors: Khoury Grace C. , McNally Beverley
Published: June 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to report on the findings of a study exploring the challenges confronting the provision of human resource development (HRD) in large Palestinian organizations.

Design/methodology/approach

– A mixed methods approach was used to gather the data. The quantitative data were analysed using statistical programme for social sciences. Qualitative data were analysed using thematic analysis.

Findings

– The first challenge pertained to the need for large-scale investment in human capital while at the same time facing serious resource constraints. Additional challenges were; the operational nature of the HR function, the limited training and development expertise and the lack of alignment between educational institutions and employers’ needs.

Research limitations/implications

– This exploratory study provides recommendations for future explanatory research to contribute to the literature examining national human resource development (NHRD) in high-conflict societies.

Practical implications

– The findings have implications for both policy makers and the HRD profession. There are also implications for the prioritization of development funding.

Social implications

– There is an identified need for closer alignment between the country’s education system, the needs of the workplace and the HRD function in organizations. The overarching recommendation is that the HRD function be considered from a NHRD and human capital theory perspectives.

Originality/value

– This study is the first of its type to be conducted in Palestine. The findings highlight the importance of NHRD to the sustainable nation-building process in Palestine.
Balanced or unbalanced routines: the case of two routines dynamics in a French hospital
Authors: Habib Johanna , Krohmer Cathy
Published: June 2016

Purpose

– The performative approach views organizational routines as generative systems with internal aspects – ostensive and performative – and dynamics (Feldman and Pentland, 2003). The purpose of this paper is to better understand under which conditions the routine dynamics happens or not.

Design/methodology/approach

– To deal with this issue, for 13 months, the authors conducted a comparative and longitudinal case studies based on the evolution of the organizational routines in absence management in two departments of a French hospital.

Findings

– The results show contrasting dynamics in the studied organizational routines: one evolved, the other in contrast, seemed blocked. The authors suggest that the routine dynamics depends on the relative weight of its ostensive and performative aspects: a balance situation makes mutual adaptions possible and an imbalance situation leads to the conservation of defective routine. The research underlines also that, in the hospital context, the capacity of management and teams to discuss and to negotiate the implementation of external rules plays an important role in the balance of the internal dimensions of routine.

Originality/value

– While the literature on performative approach focusses on the “how and why” the routine act as a source of continuous change, this research investigates more in depth the working of the routines dynamics itself. The issue of balance or imbalance introduces a new element in the framework of routine dynamics and can constitute an interesting focus for managers looking to transform their organizational routines.
Detrimental effects of cynicism on organizational change
Authors: Aslam Usman , Ilyas Muhammad , Imran Muhammad Kashif , Rahman Ubaid- Ur-
Published: June 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this research is to investigate the detrimental effects of cynicism on organizational change. It presents an interactive and novel theoretical research model based on organizational cynicism. The study aims to determine the causes of cynicism and suggests remedies for it so that change may be implemented with the consensus of all stakeholders.

Design/methodology/approach

– This is an associational study that aims to test the hypotheses of linear relationships among the variables used in the proposed model. Data have been collected from 417 employees, working for three public sector organizations, by using self-administrated questionnaires. The model proposed in this research has been tested by using regression analysis in Amos 22. The interactive effects have been examined by using Aguinis’s (2004) multiple moderated regression.

Findings

– The results reveal that dispositional resistance increases the intention of an employee to exhibit withdrawal behavior and that organizational contextual factors have statistically significant relationships with employees’ withdrawal behavior and their job satisfaction. Moreover, the results of interactive effects are partially significant.

Practical implications

– The Government of Pakistan, the managements of public sector organizations and workplace unions can resolve the issues of cynicism and job insecurity by involving employees in decision making and by building trust in change leaders. Employees’ participation and their trust in change leaders can decrease their intentions to exhibit withdrawal behavior and lessen the occurrences of organizational cynicism. In addition, trust in change leaders can raise job satisfaction, while job insecurity can decrease the job satisfaction levels of employees.

Originality/value

– This research presents and examines a unique multiple interactive model of organizational cynicism. Until recently, a scant number of studies particular to Asian culture, have investigated the detrimental and interactive effects of cynicism on organizational change.
Using narrated literacy‐based behavioural interventions to decrease episodes of physical aggression in elementary students with disabilities
Authors: Anderson Shelley , Bucholz Jessica L. , Hazelkorn Michael , Cooper Margaret A.
Published: June 2016

This study was designed to examine the effects of literacy‐based behavioural interventions (Bucholz et al., 2008) to decrease acts of physical aggression with kindergarten and first grade students. The study used a multiple baseline design across three participants. The results showed a decrease in acts of physical aggression by students with significant developmental delays and autism spectrum disorders as a result of the literacy‐based behavioural interventions (LBBI).
Inclusive education in Spain: promoting advocacy by legislation
Authors: De Luis Edurne Chocarro
Published: June 2016

This article reviews the journey of special education in Spain by considering the legal frameworks. It examines the extent to which legislation has tapped into the feelings of society in general towards people with disabilities who wish to secure inclusion in both education and society. It tracks the evolution of legislation, originally based on a preoccupation with the segregation of those with disabilities, towards the more progressive and inclusive laws which obtain at the present time. In so doing the article considers the positives and negatives that have accompanied this process. Spain has a high percentage of students with special educational needs enrolled in its mainstream schools; insights into the legal mechanisms shed light on how these figures were reached. The article concludes by highlighting the importance of training in attitudinal approaches towards disability in order to make the journey more accessible.
Key steps and common pitfalls in developing and validating risk models
Authors: Wynants L , Collins GS , Van Calster B
Published: June 2016

Models for estimating an individual's risk of having or developing a disease are abundant in the medical literature, yet many do not meet the methodological standards that have been set to maximise generalisability and utility. This paper presents an overview of ten steps from the conception of the study to the implementation of the risk model and discusses common pitfalls. We discuss crucial aspects of study design, data collection, model development and performance evaluation, and discuss how to bring the model to clinical practice.

Tweetable abstract

We present an overview of ten key steps for the development of risk models and discuss common pitfalls.
Forensic Analysis Reveals Acute Decompensation of Chronic Heart Failure in a 3500‐Year‐Old Egyptian Dignitary
Authors: Bianucci Raffaella , Loynes Robert D. , Sutherland M. Linda , Lallo Rudy , Kay Gemma L. , Froesch Philippe , Pallen Mark J. , Charlier Philippe , Nerlich Andreas G.
Published: June 2016

Naturally preserved and embalmed bodies from archeological contexts represent a powerful source of information for forensic investigators. They allow one to ascertain pathology, cause of death, to enhance diagnostic methodology, and to improve the analysis of altered remains. We investigated the complete head and lung remnants of a 3,500‐year‐old Egyptian dignitary by radiological, microscopic, and genetic approaches. The individual, a middle‐aged male, suffered from severe periodontitis, mild atherosclerosis, and experienced cardiogenic pulmonary insufficiency with recurrent mini‐bleeds and pulmonary edema. Histology and ancient DNA analyses excluded the presence of Mycobacterium tuberculosis or of any other pathogenic species. Based on our collection of evidence, we propose that acute decompensation complicating chronic cardiac insufficiency was the likely cause of death. The underlying causes for this failure remain unknown although chronic hypertension appears to be the most likely candidate. Our finding represents the earliest reported case of chronic heart failure in ancient mummies.
Sex‐related Differences in Emergency Department Renal Colic Management: Females Have Fewer Computed Tomography Scans but Similar Outcomes
Authors: Innes Grant D. , Scheuermeyer Frank X. , Law Michael R. , McRae Andrew D. , Weber Bryce A. , Boyda Heidi N. , Lonergan Kevin , Andruchow James E.
Published: June 2016

Background

Sex‐related differences occur in many areas of medicine. Emergency department (ED) studies have suggested differences in access to care, diagnostic imaging use, pain management, and intervention. We investigated sex‐based differences in the care and outcomes for ED patients with acute renal colic.

Methods

This was a multicenter population‐based retrospective observational cohort study using administrative data and supplemented by structured chart review. All patients seen in Calgary Health Region EDs between January 1 and December 31, 2014, with an ED diagnosis of renal colic based on the following ICD‐10 codes were eligible for inclusion: calculus of kidney (N200), calculus of ureter (N201), calculus of kidney with calculus of ureter (N202), hydronephrosis with renal and ureteral calculous obstruction (N132), unspecified renal colic (N23), and unspecified urinary calculus (N209). ED visit data and test results were accessed in the regional ED clinical database. Stone characteristics were captured from diagnostic imaging reports. Regional hospital databases were used to identify subsequent ED encounters, hospital admissions, and surgical procedures within 60 days. Outcomes were stratified by sex. The primary outcome, intended as a marker of overall effectiveness of ED care, was the unscheduled 7‐day ED revisit rate among patients who were discharged home after their index ED visit. Secondary outcomes included ED pain management as reflected by administration of narcotics or intravenous nonsteroidals, the performance of advanced imaging—either ultrasound (US) or computed tomography (CT), and the proportion of patients who required hospitalization or surgical intervention within 60 days.

Results

From January 1 to December 31, 2014, a total of 3,104 eligible patients were studied: 1,111 women (35.8%) and 1,993 men (64.2%). Baseline characteristics, access times, analgesic use, and admission rates were similar in both groups. Men were more likely to have CT (68.9% vs. 58.5%, difference = 10.4%, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 6.8 to 14.0) while women were more likely to have US (20.8% vs. 9.6%, difference = 11.2%, 95% CI = 8.4 to 13.9). At 7 days, 17.9% of women and 19.0% of men who were discharged after their index ED visit required an ED revisit (difference = 1.1%, 95% CI = −2.8 to 4.9). Men were more likely to be hospitalized at 7 days (9.8% vs. 6.5%, difference = 3.3%, 95% CI = 0.6 to 6.0).

Conclusion

This study shows greater reliance on US in females but no other sex‐specific differences in the management of ED patients with acute renal colic. Higher CT use in men was not associated with improved outcomes, and we found no important differences in access to care, diagnostic or treatment intensity, or revisit rates as a marker of care effectiveness.
Transient acantholytic dyskeratosis (Grover's disease) after bone marrow transplantation
Authors: Lim Penny Poh Lu , Fernandez Penas Pablo , Gottlieb David
Published: June 2016

Cutaneous eruptions in recipients of allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (AHSCT) are frequent, and common aetiologies include graft‐versus‐host disease (GVHD), drug reactions, viral infections and engraftment syndrome. Transient acantholytic dermatosis or Grover's disease has been described in oncology patients and it is rarely reported after AHSCT. However, this benign and self‐limiting condition should be histologically distinguished from other, more serious entities, mainly stage IV GVHD, in order to avoid inappropriate treatment with corticosteroids and intensive immunosuppression.
Simulated Bench Testing to Evaluate the Mechanical Performance of New Carotid Stents
Authors: Kumar Gideon Praveen , Kabinejadian Foad , Liu Jianfei , Ho Pei , Leo Hwa Liang , Cui Fangsen
Published: June 2016

Our group recently developed a novel covered carotid stent that can prevent emboli while preserving the external carotid artery (ECA) branch blood flow. However, our recent in vitro side‐branch ECA flow preservation tests on the covered stents revealed the need for further stent frame design improvements, including the consideration to crimp the stent to a low profile for the delivery of the stent system and having bigger cells. Hence, the current work aims to design new bare metal stents with bigger cell size to improve the crimpability and to accommodate more slits so that the side‐branch flow could be further increased. Three new stent designs were analyzed using finite element analysis and benchmarked against two commercially available carotid stents in terms of their mechanical performances such as crimpability, radial strength, and flexibility. Results indicated that the new bare metal stent designs matched well against the commercial stents. Hence our new generation covered stents based on these designs can be expected to perform better in side‐branch flow preservation without compromising on their mechanical performances.
Health term‐born girls had higher levels of urine neutrophil gelatinase‐associated lipocalin than boys during the first postnatal days
Authors: Kamianowska Monika , Wasilewska Anna , Szczepański Marek , Kulikowska Elżbieta , Bebko Barbara , Koput Alicja
Published: June 2016

Neutrophil gelatinase‐associated lipocalin (NGAL) is one of the most extensively examined biological markers for early prediction of acute kidney injury, but there is a lack of data on normal NGAL values in healthy term‐born infants. This encouraged us to established serum and urine levels using samples collected from 38 girls and 50 boys, born at a median age of 39 weeks, during the first 48 hours after birth.

Conclusion

Our findings showed that urine NGAL, but not serum levels, were significantly higher in girls than in boys.
Increased hydrogen peroxide impairs angiotensin II contractions of afferent arterioles in mice after renal ischaemia–reperfusion injury
Authors: Huang Q. , Wang Q. , Zhang S. , Jiang S. , Zhao L. , Yu L. , Hultström M. , Patzak A. , Li L. , Wilcox C. S. , Lai E. Y.
Published: June 2016

Aim

Renal ischaemia–reperfusion injury (IRI) increases angiotensin II (Ang II) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) that are potent modulators of vascular function. However, the roles of individual ROS and their interaction with Ang II are not clear. Here we tested the hypothesis that IRI modulates renal afferent arteriolar responses to Ang II via increasing superoxide () or hydrogen peroxide (H2O2).

Methods

Renal afferent arterioles were isolated and perfused from C57BL/6 mice 24 h after IRI or sham surgery. Responses to Ang II or noradrenaline were assessed by measuring arteriolar diameter. Production of H2O2 and was assessed in afferent arterioles and renal cortex. Activity of SOD and catalase, and mRNA expressions of Ang II receptors were assessed in pre‐glomerular arterioles and renal cortex.

Results

Afferent arterioles from mice after IRI had a reduced maximal contraction to Ang II (−27±2 vs. −42±1%, P < 0.001), but retained a normal contraction to noradrenaline. Arterioles after IRI had a 38% increase in H2O2 (P < 0.001) and a 45% decrease in catalase activity (P < 0.01). Contractions were reduced in normal arterioles after incubation with H2O2 (−22±2 vs. −42±1%, P < 0.05) similar to the effects of IRI. However, the impaired contractions were normalized by incubation with PEG catalase despite a reduced AT1R expression.

Conclusions

Renal IRI in mice selectively impairs afferent arteriolar responses to Ang II because of H2O2 accumulation that is caused by a reduced catalase activity. This could serve to buffer the effect of Ang II after IRI and may be a protective mechanism.
High rate of A2142G point mutation associated with clarithromycin resistance among Iranian Helicobacter pylori clinical isolates
Authors: Khashei Reza , Dara Mahintaj , Bazargani Abdollah , Bagheri Lankarani Kamran , Taghavi Alireza , Moeini Maryam , Dehghani Behzad , Sohrabi Maryam
Published: June 2016

This study aimed to investigate the clarithromycin resistance and its associated molecular mechanisms among Helicobacter pylori isolates from dyspeptic patients in Shiraz, Iran. From January to May 2014, 100 H. pylori strains were isolated from patients with gastroduodenal disorders. The resistance to clarithromycin was quantitatively evaluated, using Epsilometer (E‐test) method. Polymerase chain reaction‐restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR‐RFLP) was performed on all the isolates to detect A2143G and A2142G mutations in 23S rRNA gene. The H. pylori isolation rate was found to be 31.4%. E‐test showed that 20% of isolates were resistant to clarithromycin (MIC ≥ 1 mg/L). MIC of clarithromycin ranged between 0.016 and 24 mg/L. Findings of PCR‐RFLP showed that the A2142G was the most (90%) frequently point mutation, followed by the A2143G (10%). No statistically significant difference was found between H. pylori clarithromycin resistance point mutations and patients’ gender or age. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of high frequency of A2142G point mutation in Iran and probably in other regions of the world. Considering the increasing trend of H. pylori resistance to clarithromycin due to these mutations, it is crucial to investigate the new therapeutic approaches against H. pylori infection.
HuR in pheochromocytomas and paragangliomas – overexpression in verified malignant tumors
Authors: Leijon Helena , Salmenkivi Kaisa , Heiskanen Ilkka , Hagström Jaana , Louhimo Johanna , Heikkilä Päivi , Ristimäki Ari , Paavonen Timo , Metso Saara , Mäenpää Hanna , Haglund Caj , Arola Johanna
Published: June 2016

Pheochromocytomas and paragangliomas are rare, neural crest‐originating, neuroendocrine tumors. HuR is an mRNA‐binding protein of the ELAV/Hu‐protein family, which participates in posttranscriptional regulation of many cancer‐associated genes. HuR expression has been connected with aggressive behavior of several malignancies. Cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2) is also expressed in several malignant tumors, and its expression is regulated by HuR. Tissue microarray of 153 primary pheochromocytomas and paragangliomas was investigated for the expression of HuR and COX‐2 proteins by immunohistochemistry using two different HuR antibodies (HuR19F12 and HuR3A). In these tumors, the expression of both intranuclear and cytoplasmic HuR was detectable. Increased cytoplasmic HuR expression was significantly associated with metastatic tumors. Increased COX‐2 and MIB‐1 expression also was associated with metastatic potential, and moreover, HuR and COX‐2 expression correlated with each other. Our data suggest that increased expression of HuR protein is associated with metastatic potential of paragangliomas and pheochromocytomas, and COX‐2 seems to be a target of HuR.
Neuroticism and maladaptive coping in patients with functional somatic syndromes
Authors: Frølund Pedersen Heidi , Frostholm Lisbeth , Søndergaard Jensen Jens , Ørnbøl Eva , Schröder Andreas
Published: June 2016

Objectives

The cognitive‐behavioural model of functional somatic syndromes (FSS) proposes a multifactorial aetiology consisting of predisposing, precipitating and perpetuating factors. In this study, we sought to investigate three questions that can be drawn from this model: (1) Do patients with FSS show high levels of neuroticism? (2) Does neuroticism affect physical health and social functioning, either directly or indirectly through maladaptive coping? (3) Does more adaptive coping mediate the effect of cognitive‐behavioural therapy (CBT) on outcome?

Design

Secondary analysis of a randomized controlled trial (RCT) using additional data.

Method

We used yet unpublished data on neuroticism (measured with Temperament and Character Inventory, Revised) and coping (measured with Coping Strategies Questionnaire) together with already reported outcomes (physical health and social functioning measured with SF‐36) from an RCT comparing group CBT with enhanced usual care in 120 patients with a range of FSS. Neuroticism was measured at referral, while coping and outcomes were measured at referral, baseline, 4 and 16 months after randomization. Our hypotheses were explored through a series of cross‐sectional (linear regression and structural equation models) and longitudinal (mediation) analyses.

Results

Patients with FSS showed higher levels of neuroticism than two healthy comparison groups. At referral, symptom catastrophizing partly mediated the negative association between neuroticism and outcome. Reduction in symptom catastrophizing during group CBT partially mediated its long‐term effect.

Conclusions

The results give support to a generic cognitive‐behavioural model of FSS. Targeting symptom catastrophizing may be an essential component in CBT for patients with FSS, regardless of their specific diagnosis.

Statement of contribution

What is already known on this subject?

Previous studies have found support for single components of the cognitive‐behavioural model such as dysfunctional illness beliefs or avoidant coping. Most studies have investigated single functional somatic syndromes (FSS) such as fibromyalgia or irritable bowel syndrome.

What does this study add?

Predisposing neuroticism was linked to poor physical health through symptom catastrophizing across a range of FSS.

Reduced symptom catastrophizing during group cognitive‐behavioural therapy partially mediated its long‐term effect.

Addressing symptom catastrophizing may be a key element of the management of patients with FSS.
Multicentre cohort study ‘Rehabilitation of Occupational Skin Diseases – Optimization and Quality Assurance of Inpatient Management (ROQ)’: results from a 3‐year follow‐up
Authors: Brans Richard , Skudlik Christoph , Weisshaar Elke , Scheidt Reginald , Ofenloch Robert , Elsner Peter , Wulfhorst Britta , Schönfeld Michael , John Swen M. , Diepgen Thomas L. ,   for the ROQ Study Group
Published: June 2016

Background

A tertiary individual prevention programme (TIP) is offered to patients with severe occupational skin disease (OSD) in Germany. Previously, it was shown that the burden of OSDs is considerably reduced in patients up to 1 year after the TIP.

Objectives

To evaluate the long‐term effects of the TIP.

Patients and methods

In a prospective multicentre cohort study, the clinical and patient‐reported outcome data 3 years after the TIP were evaluated.

Results

Of the 1788 patients initially included in the study, 1410 were available for the 3‐year follow‐up analysis. The severity of OSD, the use of topical corticosteroids and days of absence from work were significantly reduced 3 years after the TIP, and the quality of life and skin protective behaviour were significantly improved. Of the patients, 96.9% were able to resume work. One thousand one hundred and sixty‐six patients (82.7%) were still working 3 years after the TIP, 874 of them (75.0%) in the same occupational field. Hairdressers had the lowest rate of remaining in their original profession (41.3%).

Conclusions

The follow‐up during 3 years of this unique cohort of patients with OSDs shows that the TIP is associated with sustained improvements in terms of disease severity, ability to work, quality of life, and prognosis.
Allocating Capacity with Demand Competition: Fixed Factor Allocation*
Authors: Li Jianbin , Cai Xueyuan , Liu Zhixin
Published: June 2016

We consider a supply chain consisting of a supplier and two retailers. The supplier sells a single product to the retailers, who, in turn, retail the product to customers. The supplier has limited production capacity, and the retailers compete for the supplier's capacity and are duopolists engaged in Cournot competition for their customers. When the sum of the retailers' orders exceeds the supplier's capacity, the supplier allocates his capacity according to a preannounced allocation rule. We propose a new capacity allocation rule, fixed factor allocation, which incorporates the ideas of proportional and lexicographic allocations: it prioritizes retailers as in lexicographic allocation, but guarantees only a fixed proportion of the total available capacity to the prioritized retailer. We show that (1) the fixed factor allocation rule incorporates lexicographic and proportional allocations from the perspectives of the supplier and the supply chain; (2) under fixed factor allocation, the supply chain profit is not affected by the allocation factor when it is greater than a threshold; (3) the retailers share the supply chain profit with the supplier depending on the value of the allocation factor; and (4) the fixed factor allocation coordinates the supply chain when the market size is sufficiently large. We also compare fixed factor with proportional and lexicographic allocations, respectively. Furthermore, we demonstrate how the supplier can optimize his capacity level and wholesale price under fixed factor allocation.
Functional trait differences influence neighbourhood interactions in a hyperdiverse Amazonian forest
Authors: Fortunel Claire , Valencia Renato , Wright S. Joseph , Garwood Nancy C. , Kraft Nathan J. B.
Published: June 2016

As distinct community assembly processes can produce similar community patterns, assessing the ecological mechanisms promoting coexistence in hyperdiverse rainforests remains a considerable challenge. We use spatially explicit neighbourhood models of tree growth to quantify how functional trait and phylogenetic similarities predict variation in growth and crowding effects for the 315 most abundant tree species in a 25‐ha lowland rainforest plot in Ecuador. We find that functional trait differences reflect variation in (1) species maximum potential growth, (2) the intensity of interspecific interactions for some species, and (3) species sensitivity to neighbours. We find that neighbours influenced tree growth in 28% of the 315 focal tree species. Neighbourhood effects are not detected in the remaining 72%, which may reflect the low statistical power to model rare taxa and/or species insensitivity to neighbours. Our results highlight the spectrum of ways in which functional trait differences can shape community dynamics in highly diverse rainforests.
Ecosystem effects of invertebrate fisheries
Authors: Eddy Tyler D , Lotze Heike K , Fulton Elizabeth A , Coll Marta , Ainsworth Cameron H , de Araújo Júlio Neves , Bulman Catherine M , Bundy Alida , Christensen Villy , Field John C , Gribble Neil A , Hasan Mejs , Mackinson Steve , Townsend Howard
Published: June 2016

Since the 1950s, invertebrate fisheries catches have rapidly expanded globally to more than 10 million tonnes annually, with twice as many target species, and are now significant contributors to global seafood provision, export, trade and local livelihoods. Invertebrates play important and diverse functional roles in marine ecosystems, yet the ecosystem effects of their exploitation are poorly understood. Using 12 ecosystem models distributed worldwide, we analysed the trade‐offs of various invertebrate fisheries and their ecosystem effects as well as ecological indicators. Although less recognized for their contributions to marine food webs, our results show that the magnitude of trophic impacts of invertebrates on other species of commercial and conservation interest is comparable with those of forage fish. Generally, cephalopods showed the strongest ecosystem effects and were characterized by a strong top‐down predatory role. Lobster, and to a lesser extent, crabs, shrimp and prawns, also showed strong ecosystem effects, but at lower trophic levels. Benthic invertebrates, including epifauna and infauna, also showed considerable ecosystem effects, but with strong bottom‐up characteristics. In contrast, urchins, bivalves, and gastropods showed generally lower ecosystem effects in our simulations. Invertebrates also strongly contributed to benthic–pelagic coupling, with exploitation of benthic invertebrates impacting pelagic fishes and vice versa. Finally, on average, invertebrates produced maximum sustainable yield at lower levels of depletion (~45%) than forage fish (~65%), highlighting the need for management targets that avoid negative consequences for target species and marine ecosystems as a whole.
Fracture toughness prediction using Weibull statistical method for asphalt mixtures containing different air void contents
Authors: Aliha M. R. M. , Fattahi Amirdehi H. R.
Published: June 2016

Brittle fracture of asphalt mixtures at low temperatures is one of the main deterioration modes of pavements. Hence as an important design parameter, it is required that a reliable value for fracture toughness of asphalt mixtures is known. However, because of natural inhomogeneity of asphalt mixtures and inherent sources of scatters such as random distribution of ingredients and preparation process, the use of statistical analyses might provide better estimations for the crack growth resistance of asphalt mixtures. In this paper by conducting several low temperature fracture toughness experiments on three types of asphalt mixtures with different air void contents, the effects of air void percentage on mode I fracture toughness are studied statistically. Fifty six edge cracked semi‐circular bend specimens containing 4, 5 and 7% air voids were tested, and the corresponding two and three‐Weibull distribution parameters were determined for each set of data. It was shown that the Weibull model can be used successfully for predicting the statistical nature of tensile cracking phenomenon in asphalt mixtures. The mean fracture toughness values and the Weibull parameters were reduced by increasing the air void content. Furthermore, the distribution parameters obtained experimentally for the mixtures containing 4% and 5% voids were also predicted quite well in terms of the Weibull parameters of a reference mixture containing 7% air void.
Revisiting Jewson and Mason: The Politics of Gender Equality in UK Local Government in a Cold Climate
Authors: Conley Hazel , Page Margaret
Published: June 2016

This paper revisits Jewson and Mason's seminal theoretical framework on liberal and radical approaches to equal opportunity policy and practice by applying it to our research on the implementation of the Gender Equality Duty in UK local government. Conducted at the height of Thatcherism, Jewson and Mason's research offers a useful platform for assessing equality initiatives in local government during periods of political hostility to equality underpinned by cuts to public services, which in more recent time is ascribed to austerity. Drawing on qualitative research in five case study local authorities, this paper assesses strategies for protecting and promoting gender equality practices and policies in the face of change within public services. We analyse three types of politics of equality (political philosophy, organizational politics and party politics) that feature in Jewson and Mason's analysis. In line with recent feminist research, our data indicate that equality specialists continue to use both liberal and radical discourses in instrumental ways to promote equality and resist change as described by Jewson and Mason, but these were more clearly framed within business case arguments influenced by the modernization agenda of the 1990s. Our data indicate that even business case arguments have been unable to protect equality initiatives from the 2010 coalition government's austerity and cuts agenda.
Extranasal Staphylococcus aureus colonization predisposes to bloodstream infections in patients on hemodialysis with noncuffed internal jugular vein catheters
Authors: Devraj Anand , Siva Tez Pinnamaneni Venkata , Biswal Manisha , Ramachandran Raja , Jha Vivekanand
Published: June 2016

Introduction: Staphylococcal infection of endogenous origin is an important cause of morbidity and mortality in patients who receive hemodialysis (HD). The risk of such infections in nasal carriers of the organism is well defined. Extranasal carriage of the organism at extranasal sites may pose similar risks. Methods: A total of 70 patients about to undergo internal jugular vein catheterization for HD were enrolled in this prospective observational study. Swab cultures were obtained from anterior nares, posterior pharynx, axillae, toe web spaces, and vascular access sites at baseline and 1 week later. A patient was defined as a persistent carrier when the same organism was grown in both samples. Staphylococcus aureus bloodstream infections were assessed by blood and catheter tip cultures over a 90‐day period. Findings: The mean age of the patients was 43.71 ± 16.2 years. Persistent S. aureus carriage at anterior nares, throat, axilla, toe web spaces, vascular access site, and all sites was documented in 27.9%, 11.4%, 40%, 32.9%, 4.3%, and 64.2% of patients, respectively. Fifteen patients developed S. aureus infections. Catheter related S. aureus infections (CRI) were more likely in persistent carriers than nonpersistent carriers with odds ratios (95% CI) of 10.2 (2.8–37.1), 8.6 (1.7–42.2), 17.3 (3.4–86.0), 3.0 (0.9–9.8), and 1.9 (0.2–22.4) for anterior nares, throat, axilla, toe web spaces, and vascular access site carriers, respectively. The probability of developing CRI in persistent S. aureus carriers was 55% compared to none in noncarriers at 90 days (P = 0.04). Discussion: Extranasal S. aureus carriage is as significant a risk factor as nasal carriage for staphylococcal infections in patients on HD through catheters. The study is limited by lack of molecular phenotyping.
Spray drying of a phenolic‐rich membrane filtration fraction of olive mill wastewater: optimisation and dried product quality
Authors: Sedej Ivana , Milczarek Rebecca , Wang Selina C. , Sheng Runqi , de Jesús Avena‐Bustillos Roberto , Dao Lan , Takeoka Gary
Published: June 2016

Olive mill wastewater (OMWW) from 3‐ and 2‐phase mills was subjected to a two‐step membrane filtration process. The obtained reverse osmosis retentate (RO‐R) is a phenolic‐rich coproduct stream, and the reverse osmosis permeate is a near‐pure water stream. A pilot‐scale spray dryer was used for the production of RO‐R powder. The optimum temperature/feed pump conditions were obtained for 3‐phase (150°C/4.4 Hz) and for 2‐phase RO‐R (175°C/3.8 Hz). The powders obtained by spray drying under these conditions were analysed for physicochemical properties, including identification and quantification of phenolic compounds. Protocatechuic acid, 3‐hydroxytyrosol, tyrosol, vanillic acid and p‐coumaric acid were quantified in both RO‐R powders, which show the possibility to obtain a phenolic‐rich powder from an OMWW filtration fraction. This will lead towards better usage of by‐products from olive oil production.
Statistical Inference, Learning and Models in Big Data
Authors: Franke Beate , Plante Jean‐François , Roscher Ribana , Lee En‐shiun Annie , Smyth Cathal , Hatefi Armin , Chen Fuqi , Gil Einat , Schwing Alexander , Selvitella Alessandro , Hoffman Michael M. , Grosse Roger , Hendricks Dieter , Reid Nancy
Published: June 2016

The need for new methods to deal with big data is a common theme in most scientific fields, although its definition tends to vary with the context. Statistical ideas are an essential part of this, and as a partial response, a thematic program on statistical inference, learning and models in big data was held in 2015 in Canada, under the general direction of the Canadian Statistical Sciences Institute, with major funding from, and most activities located at, the Fields Institute for Research in Mathematical Sciences. This paper gives an overview of the topics covered, describing challenges and strategies that seem common to many different areas of application and including some examples of applications to make these challenges and strategies more concrete.
Influence of FeO/SiO2 and CaO/SiO2 Ratios in Iron‐Saturated ZnO‐Rich Fayalite Slags on the Corrosion of MgO
Authors: Chen Liugang , Guo Muxing , Shi Huayue , Jones Peter Tom , Blanpain Bart , Malfliet Annelies
Published: June 2016

The corrosion behavior of MgO in iron‐saturated ZnO‐rich fayalite (ZFS) slags having various FeO/SiO2 ratio and CaO/SiO2 ratio was investigated using MgO crucible tests for 12 h at 1200°C. The FeO/SiO2 and CaO/SiO2 ratios in the ZFS slags were varied from 1.0 to 2.2, and from 0.04 to 0.32, respectively. In all of the tests, it was observed that MgO dissolves into ZFS slags and that (Zn,Fe,Mg)2SiO4 olivine and (Zn,Fe,Mg)O solid solution are formed at the crucible/slag interface. The MgO dissolution decreased with the FeO/SiO2 ratio up to a value of 1.7 and then slightly increased, whereas it continuously increased with the CaO/SiO2 ratio. There is no obvious relationship between the amount of olivine and the FeO/SiO2 ratio or CaO/SiO2 ratio. In comparison, the formation of (Zn,Fe,Mg)O solid solution is enhanced by increasing the FeO/SiO2 ratio or CaO/SiO2 ratio in ZFS slags. The results suggest that MgO corrosion is the lowest for FeO/SiO2 and CaO/SiO2 ratios around 1.7 and 0, respectively.
Distribution of Serum Uric Acid in Black Africans and Its Association With Cardiovascular Risk Factors
Authors: Moulin Stephanie R. , Baldo Marcelo P. , Souza Juliana B. , Luchi Weverton M. , Capingana Daniel P. , Magalhães Pedro , Mill José G.
Published: June 2016

Hyperuricemia is associated with cardiovascular disease and its prevalence is unknown in black Africans. This study reports hyperuricemia distribution and its association with cardiovascular risk factors in a selected Angolan population. A cross‐sectional study in 585 black Africans was performed. Hyperuricemia was defined as uric acid >7.0 mg/dL in men or >5.7 mg/dL in women. Overall prevalence was 25%. Hyperuricemia was associated with hypertension (odds ratio [OR], 2.20; confidence interval [CI], 95% 1.41–3.47), high waist circumference (OR, 1.67; CI, 95% 1.05–2.65), and metabolic syndrome (OR, 1.66; CI, 95% 1.07–2.57). Compared to those with uric acid levels in the first quartile, individuals in the fourth quartile showed higher body mass index, waist circumference, systolic blood pressure, and plasma levels of creatinine and triglycerides. Hypertension, high waist circumference, and metabolic syndrome were the major cardiovascular risk factors associated with hyperuricemia.
Successful treatment of bullous pemphigoid with omalizumab as corticosteroid‐sparing agent: report of two cases and review of literature
Authors: Balakirski G. , Alkhateeb A. , Merk H.F. , Leverkus M. , Megahed M.
Published: June 2016

Background

Bullous pemphigoid (BP) is an autoimmune blistering disease that is characterized by formation of subepidermal bullae due to functional disturbance of the hemidesmosomal proteins on the keratinocytes at the basal membrane zone. In recent years, several studies have emphasized the important role of IgE autoantibodies in the pathogenesis of BP. Consequently, a therapeutic approach using IgE depleting antibodies, such as a humanized monoclonal anti‐IgE antibody (e.g. omalizumab) may represent a new option for treatment of this autoimmune disease.

Methods

In this paper, we report about the successful treatment of BP with omalizumab in two patients and provide a review of the current literature on the relationship between IgE antibodies and this autoimmune blistering disease.

Results

Two patients with therapy‐resistant BP were treated with humanized monoclonal anti‐IgE antibody omalizumab 300 mg subcutaneously every 3 weeks as corticosteroid‐sparing agent. Under this therapy, both patients experienced a significant improvement of skin condition and almost complete resolution of pruritus. The treatment was well tolerated.

Conclusion

Until recently IgG autoantibodies against the basal membrane proteins BP180 und BP230 were considered to be causative in the pathogenesis of BP. However, new in vitro studies as well as data from experimental mouse models have indicated that in addition to specific IgG, also IgE antibodies against BP180 and BP230 play a role in the development of this disease. Based on these new findings, new treatment modalities of BP became possible.