bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sustainability as corporate mission and strategy
Authors: Mysen Tore
Published: October 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe how a corporation with sustainability as its mission implements sustainability strategy and programmes to promote social responsible management. Special attention is paid to how internal and external value systems interact and influence the conception and implementation of sustainability.

Design/methodology/approach

As an educational charity and social enterprise, the Eden Project is examined, using a qualitative case study approach. Extant literature complements the discussion of how internal and external driving forces interact and influence sustainable management and practice. Method triangulation is adopted to increase the internal validity, comprising in‐depth interviews with key management informants, one major supplier, representatives of the staff, observation on site and a member check for the correctness of descriptions and the systematisation of the data.

Findings

The sustainability strategy of the Eden Project is divided in three interconnected strategies; operational practice, educational programmes and outreach initiatives that target young people, disengaged and unemployed people, and deprived communities around the world. The study points to possible interrelationships between different internal and external value systems, and how internal and external driving forces may influence the way corporations conceive and implement sustainability.

Research limitations/implications

The business sustainability model at the Eden Project provides opportunities for the development of sustainability management, and suggestions for future research are presented.

Practical implications

The study illustrates how the carbon footprint on Earth can be reduced, and how social responsibility can be advanced.

Originality/value

This study is the first to examine a corporation that deploys resources to increase financial performance in order to support the main objectives concerning promoting sustainability management. Thus, the examination may provide new ideas to practitioners and researchers related to the advancement of social responsibility.
The impact of information security breach on hotel guest perception of service quality, satisfaction, revisit intentions and word‐of‐mouth
Authors: Berezina Katerina , Cobanoglu Cihan , Miller Brian L. , Kwansa Francis A.
Published: October 2012

Purpose

The primary purpose of this study is to investigate the impact of information security breaches on hotel guests' perceived service quality, satisfaction, likelihood of recommending a hotel and revisit intentions.

Design/methodology/approach

Five‐hundred seventy‐four US travelers participated in this experimental study. The respondents were exposed to one of three different scenarios: “negative”, where an information security breach happened in the hotel where a person stayed last and guest information was compromised; “neutral”, where an information security breach happened and guest information remained safe; and “positive”, where participants were told that the hotel where they last stayed successfully passed a comprehensive security audit, meaning that their guest information is properly handled and secured.

Findings

The results of the study revealed a significant impact of the treatments on three of the four outcome variables: satisfaction, likelihood of recommending a hotel, and revisit intentions. Information security breach scenarios resulted in a negative impact on the outcome variables regardless of whether or not the guest's credit card information was compromised. A positive scenario revealed a significant increase in guest satisfaction and revisit intentions scores.

Practical implications

The findings of the study provide clear indication that hotel operators must continually strive to keep the sensitive data that is collected from their guests secure, and that failure to do so can have significant negative ramifications on current and future guests. The results also suggest that hotels should openly publicize their achievements in the field of PCI compliance.

Originality/value

The study contributes to the body of knowledge on the importance of credit card information security breaches to hotel guest satisfaction and future behavior. To date, this is the only study that has investigated this topic in the hospitality industry, and it therefore makes a significant improvement towards the understanding of the impact of information security breach on hotel guest perceptions and future intentions.
Work‐family conflict, work‐family facilitation, and job outcomes in the Korean hotel industry
Authors: Jung Choi Hyun , Tae Kim Young
Published: October 2012

Purpose

The present study aims to investigate the predictive effect of work‐family conflict and work‐family facilitation on job satisfaction in the Korean hotel industry. In addition, this study seeks to examine if there is a significant effect of job satisfaction on job performance.

Design/methodology/approach

The data were obtained from full‐time frontline staff in ten five‐star hotels in Seoul. Confirmatory factor analysis and path analysis through AMOS 4.0 were performed to demonstrate relationships among variables. In addition, frequent analysis to investigate sample characteristics and correlation analysis to determine relationships between each of the two constructs were conducted using SPSS 10.0.

Findings

The results show that job satisfaction may be improved by limiting “work to family conflicts” and evaluating the nature of “facilitation from family to work”. An additional finding is that job satisfaction may enhance job performance. Unexpectedly, “family to work conflict” significantly and positively relates to job satisfaction in the workplace.

Research limitations/implications

It would be desirable for future research to study these issues via extending the sample to various categories of employment, and not only hotels but also different areas of the tourism and hospitality industry. Longitudinal research that allows social researchers and hotel organizations to understand employees better in specific industrial situations would be beneficial to understand fully the relationship of work‐family interface to job outcomes more completely.

Practical implications

This study proposes that organizations invest more resources in flexible working schedules, regular working hours, family‐friendly programs, and additional useful benefits and support related to family.

Originality/value

This study offers useful guidelines for foreign hotel entrepreneurs entering the Korean market regarding how to improve job satisfaction and job performance in relation to work‐family interaction.
Cognitive‐experiential self theory and conflict‐handling styles
Authors: Cerni Tom , Curtis Guy J. , Colmar Susan H.
Published: October 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine how the rational and experiential systems according to the cognitive‐experiential self theory (CEST) are related to conflict‐handling styles.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a correlational design, data were collected using an on‐line survey system examining CEST information‐processing systems and five conflict‐handling styles. A total of 426 undergraduate students, with paid jobs, complete the on‐line survey.

Findings

Results showed that the rational system, experiential system and constructive thinking had significant positive relationships with both the integrating and compromising conflict‐handling styles. Additionally, the rational system had a positive relationship with the dominating conflict‐handling style and the experiential system and constructive thinking had a positive relationship with the obliging conflict‐handling style. The rational system and constructive thinking had a negative relationship with the avoiding conflict‐handling style.

Research limitations/implications

The study established a positive connection between CEST information‐processing systems and conflict‐handling styles among undergraduate students, however the results of the study may not be as directly comparable with real and established leaders.

Originality/value

Being the first study to examine the connection between the CEST information‐processing systems and the five conflict‐handling styles, the paper offers interesting insights about how the choice of information‐processing systems can influence the choice of conflict‐handling styles across a wide range of situations.
Development of knowledge capital and innovation culture in Suurpelto during the Project Koulii
Authors: Rasanen Pekka
Published: October 2012

Purpose

The paper aims to describe creation of knowledge capital and innovation culture within the field of regional development. This covers the development process of the Living Lab environment.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper examines knowledge creation in innovation network based on Nonaka and Takeuchi's SECI model and Harmaakorpi's Rye‐bread model. The paper describes the role of Koulii project (funding European Social Fund by the Centre for Economic Development, Transport and the Environment) in understanding, advancing and developing the sense of communality and human sized services in Suurpelto in Espoo. Emphasis is on the project's role and practices in the evolution of knowledge capital. Examination and assessing is based on a practice‐based innovation activity model within multi‐actor and multi‐disciplinary innovation networks.

Findings

The innovation arena model involves different actors in a growing and deepening process, which benefits and uses strong and weak ties in those networks. The paper also discusses regional development from structural and symbolic perspectives. Creation and development of the innovation culture of Omnia and Laurea and in Suurpelto is examined.

Originality/value

The case study confirms in practice the usability of both the SECI and the Rye‐bread models in innovation and regional development work. The paper summarizes the accomplishments and results achieved or in horizon during the innovation project at Suurpelto.
The inspirational effects of three major sport events
Authors: Ramchandani Girish M. , Coleman Richard J.
Published: October 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate whether attending one‐off sport events might inspire audiences to increase their participation in sport or recreational physical activity.

Design/methodology/approach

Primary data collection was undertaken with spectators aged 16 and over at three major sport events held in the UK in 2010. The findings are based on an aggregate sample of 2,312 respondents.

Findings

Around two‐thirds of respondents reported that their event experience had inspired them to increase their participation in sport or physical activity. The inspiration effect varied according to age and respondents’ predisposition to sport. The main factors that caused the inspiration were linked directly to the athletes and the competition. The provision of information about opportunities to undertake sport was found to be the most important lever to convert inspiration into participation.

Originality/value

Evidence of the impact of major sport events on mass participation is relatively scarce and inconclusive. In order for any “trickle‐down” effect to occur, it would be reasonable to assume that audiences would first be inspired by their event experience. It is this basic sense of inspiration that the research aimed to measure.
Extreme return correlation and volatility: a two‐threshold approach
Authors: Sankaran Harikumar , Nguyen Anh , Harikumar Jayashree
Published: October 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the relation between extreme return correlation and return volatility, in the context of US stock indexes, by detecting clusters of extreme returns using return and volatility thresholds based on an algorithm suggested in Laurini.

Design/methodology/approach

The daily returns and conditional volatilities estimated using GARCH (1, 1) serve as inputs to the two threshold algorithm that detects extreme return clusters. The analysis of the relation between correlation and volatility is then based on the extent of overlapping extreme return clusters across DJIA, S&P 500 and NASDAQ composite.

Findings

It is found that the correlation positive extreme returns within overlapping clusters significantly increases with volatility between DJIA and S&P 500. The authors did not find any significant change in the pair‐wise correlation between the positive extreme returns within overlapping clusters in each of these indexes with those of NASDAQ composite.

Originality/value

Prior researches examine extreme returns by using a return threshold and have found mixed results on the relation between correlation and volatility. This paper examines the relation between correlation and volatility between clusters of extreme returns and provides consistent results that are of vital interest to investors.
Olympic stadiums in their urban environment: a question of design and cultural significance
Authors: Kiuri Miranda , Teller Jacques
Published: October 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyse the relationship between Olympic stadiums and the urban environment. This relationship is considered as key to understanding the cultural significance of these exceptional event‐based buildings. It helps to explain present challenges faced by their conservation and raises the issue of considering likely heritage values at the design stage of stadiums.

Design/methodology/approach

The analysis is based on a periodization of the relationship between Olympic stadiums and the urban environment. This periodization proposes a six stage typology, starting from the stadium of Olympia at the Hellenistic period. It combines an analysis of the stadium architecture itself and the integration of Olympic facilities within their urban setting and the city at large.

Findings

The article highlights that Olympic stadiums have progressively been isolated from the city environment they are located in. This isolation can both be observed at the scale of the building, through the progressive adoption of arena‐shaped envelopes, and at the scale of the city through the clustering of Olympic facilities in campus‐like sites. Although it can be explained by functional and city‐marketing requirements, it is argued that this isolation will hamper an adaptive reuse of these facilities once the Olympic event is over. It is further suggested that the conservation of Olympic stadiums should be considered at the design stage of these buildings, considering their potential outstanding socio‐cultural values.

Research limitations/implications

This research is based on the analysis of Olympic stadiums solely. It may have been completed and refined by a comparison with other stadiums, especially those dedicated to football competitions. It means that the research results are closely related to a very specific type of stadium, which is designed for a once in lifetime a time event, repeated throughout the world every four years.

Originality/value

The main originality of the work consists in the combination of a building‐ and a settlement‐oriented typology within the periodization. It has been further considered that considering the stadium of Olympia at the Hellenistic period within the typology would help to better describe a general movement from opened‐ to closed‐stadium environments that definitively finds its roots in the Greek Antiquity.
The effects of cruise ship tourism in coastal heritage cities
Authors: Marsh Elizabeth A.
Published: October 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the introduction of cruise ship tourism into historic urban centers, and the mitigation policies that can be implemented to encourage sustainable development of this relationship.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper focuses on the unique aspects of cruise tourism that differentiate it from other forms of mass tourism. Using the specific example of Charleston, South Carolina, it explores the difficulties that cruise tourism present to local residents and policymakers. It looks at different mitigation policies that have previously been implemented in cruise destinations around the world, and analyzes which have been the most effective.

Findings

Cruise ship tourism is the fastest growing segment of the tourism industry, and it is an issue that many coastal heritage destinations will soon face. Uncontrolled tourism from cruise ships is unsustainable, and strong government intervention is needed to maintain heritage cities.

Originality/value

This paper provides compelling evidence that cruise ship tourism presents an immediate threat to sustainable tourism in urban heritage centers, and provides policy recommendations for lawmakers.
Reducing analytical variation between point‐of‐care and laboratory HbA1c testing (减少HbA1c的床边检验与实验室检验之间的分析变异)
Authors: Malkani Samir , Korpi‐Steiner Nichole , Rao Lokinendi V.
Published: October 2012

Background

Point‐of‐care (POC) HbA1c testing allows for timely treatment changes, improved glycemic control, and patient and provider satisfaction. Substantial variation between POC and laboratory HbA1c results has been reported. At our university hospital diabetes clinic, we observed significant negative bias in HbA1c with the DCA Vantage™ (Siemens Healthcare Diagnostics, Tarrytown, NY, USA) compared with the Tosoh G8 HPLC laboratory analyzer (Tosoh Bioscience, San Francisco, CA, USA). This led us to systematically analyze the bias with the goal of recalibrating the DCA to minimize bias.

Methods

We analyzed 45 patient samples, with HbA1c ranging between 5% and 10.8%, concurrently on two DCA analyzers and on the Tosoh G8 machine. The bias for each sample was the difference between the value on the DCA and the Tosoh G8 analyzer. Based on regression equations derived from the data, a correction factor for each DCA analyzer was calculated. The analyzers were recalibrated and retested for bias.

Results

At baseline, the mean bias (range) was −0.5229 (+0.1 to −1.3) for Analyzer 1 and −0.5348 (0.0 to −1.6) for Analyzer 2. After recalibration, the mean bias (range) was 0.000 (+0.6 to −0.6) and 0.0003 (+0.5 to −0.5) for Analyzers 1 and 2, respectively, and the systematic negative bias seen prior to the calibration was almost eliminated.

Conclusions

We recommend periodic recalibration of POC analyzers to eliminate systematic unidirectional bias and to harmonize results between the POC and central laboratory analyzers within a healthcare system. Calibration may need to be repeated with any change in the reagent lot.
Working memory ability predicts trajectories of early alcohol use in adolescents: the mediational role of impulsivity
Authors: Khurana Atika , Romer Dan , Betancourt Laura M. , Brodsky Nancy L. , Giannetta Joan M. , Hurt Hallam
Published: October 2012

Aims

(i) To evaluate the role of pre‐existing weakness in working memory ability (WM) as a risk factor for early alcohol use as mediated by different forms of impulsivity and (ii) to assess the adverse effects of progressive alcohol use on variations in WM over time.

Design, setting and participants

A community sample of 358 adolescents [48% males, meanage(baseline) = 11.4 ± 0.87 years] from a longitudinal cohort design, assessed annually over 4 consecutive years with less than 6% attrition.

Measurements

Repeated assessments were conducted for the following key variables: WM (based on performance on four separate tasks), frequency of alcohol use (AU) and three forms of impulsivity, namely sensation seeking (SS), acting without thinking (AWT) and delay discounting (DD). Latent growth curve modeling procedures were used to identify individual trajectories of change for all key variables.

Findings

Weakness in WM (at baseline) predicted significantly both concurrent alcohol use and increased frequency of use over the four waves (P < 0.05). This effect was entirely mediated by two forms of impulsivity, AWT and DD, both of which were characterized by underlying weakness in WM. No individual variation was observed in the slopes of WM, which suggests that individual variations in alcohol use were not associated with changes in WM in our early adolescent sample.

Conclusions

Early adolescent alcohol use may be a consequence of (pre‐existing) weaknesses in working memory (WM) rather than a cause of it. Efforts to reduce early alcohol use should consider the distinct roles of different impulsivity dimensions, in addition to WM, as potential targets of intervention.
Are obstetric anal sphincter ruptures preventable?– Large and consistent rupture rate variations between the Nordic countries and between delivery units in Norway
Authors: LAINE KATARIINA , ROTVOLD WENCHE , STAFF ANNE CATHRINE
Published: October 2012

Objective. To study changes in the incidence of obstetric anal sphincter rupture (OASR) during recent years in Denmark, Finland, Sweden and Norway and hospital‐based incidence in recent years in Norway. Design. Retrospective birth register study. Setting. Unselected population of delivering women in four Nordic countries. Sample. All deliveries (574 175) registered in Denmark, Finland, Norway and Sweden, 2004–2010. Methods. Parity data, including maternal, obstetrical and fetal characteristics, were obtained. The incidence of OASR was calculated from vaginal deliveries. A chi‐squared test was used to analyse differences between countries and time periods. Main outcome measures. Incidence of OASR. Results. During the study period, the OASR incidence in Finland was notably lower (0.7–1.0%) than in the other three Nordic countries (4.2–2.3%). A significant and constant reduction in OASR incidence was observed in Norway only (from 4.1 to 2.3%, from 2004 to 2010, p < 0.001). This reduction occurred simultaneously with introduction of a national intervention program of improved delivery techniques that aimed to reduce the incidence of OASR. No major alterations in maternal or fetal risk factors for OASR or registration routines could explain this rapid reduction in the rate of OASR. Differences in the incidence of OASR between Norwegian delivery units were significant, with a threefold difference when comparing the units with lowest and highest incidences. Conclusions. Obstetric anal sphincter rupture seems to be preventable to a considerable extent, as indicated by the rapid and lasting reduction of OASR incidence after implementation of perineal protection programs in Norway. Improved delivery techniques should be implemented in all delivery units to prevent OASR as much as possible.
Proton pump inhibitor therapy predisposes to community‐acquired Streptococcus pneumoniae pneumonia
Authors: de Jager C. P. C. , Wever P. C. , Gemen E. F. A. , van Oijen M. G. H. , van Gageldonk‐Lafeber A. B. , Siersema P. D. , Kusters G. C. M. , Laheij R. J. F.
Published: October 2012

Background

The pathophysiological mechanisms which contribute to an increased risk of community‐acquired pneumonia (CAP) in patients using proton pump inhibitors are not well established.

Aim

To examine differences in microbial etiology in patients with CAP between patients with and without proton pump inhibitor (PPI) therapy and its possible impact on disease severity.

Methods

All individuals consulting the emergency care unit were prospectively registered and underwent chest radiography. Sputum, urine, nose‐throat swabs and blood samples were obtained for microbial evaluation. We evaluated the association between use of proton pump inhibitors, etiology of CAP and severity of illness with multivariate regression analysis.

Results

The final cohort comprised 463 patients, 29% using proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). Pathogens regarded as oropharyngeal flora were more common in CAP patients using PPI therapy compared to those who did not (adjusted OR: 2.0; 95% CI: 1.22–3.72). Patients using proton pump inhibitors more frequently had an infection with Streptococcus pneumoniae (28% vs. 14%) and less frequently with Coxiella burnetii (8% vs. 19%) compared to nonuser of PPI. Adjusted for baseline differences, the risk of PPI users being infected with S. pneumonia was 2.23 times (95% CI: 1.28–3.75) higher compared to patients without PPI's. No risk between PPI use and any other microbial pathogen was found. There was no difference in severity of CAP between patients with and without using PPI therapy.

Conclusions

Proton pump inhibitor therapy was associated with an approximately 2‐fold increased risk to develop community‐acquired pneumonia possibly as a result of S. pneumoniae infection.
The relation between school entrance age and school achievement during primary schooling: Evidence from Croatian primary schools
Authors: Sakic Marija , Burusic Josip , Babarovic Toni
Published: October 2012

Background

Compulsory school entrance age and admission policies differ across countries and educational systems, and there is a continuing debate on the question whether and how the age at school entry affects various student outcomes.

Aims

This study explored the relation between school entrance age and school achievement among students attending fourth (ages 10–11) and eighth (ages 14–15) grade of Croatian primary schools.

Sample

Participants were 44,479 fourth‐ and 43,338 eighth‐grade students from all Croatian primary schools. Students were divided into groups of younger and older school entrants based on the difference between the year of birth and the year of school entry.

Methods

Differences in school achievement between students who were younger and those who were older when they entered school in subjects covered by the curriculum for respective grades were examined among fourth‐ and eighth‐grade students. Two achievement measures were used for each subject–objective test results obtained during a national examination and final school marks appointed by teachers.

Results

Among fourth‐grade students, older school entrants on average performed slightly better than the younger ones in all the subjects, irrespective of the achievement measure used. However, these differences in achievement are very small, and the effect of school entrance age on achievement is very weak. In the eighth‐grade sample, younger and older school entrants did not differ in their achievement in the majority of subjects.

Conclusions

Students who are older when they enter school perform slightly better than their older classmates in the lower grades of primary school, but these differences in achievement are very small and are probably no longer present by the end of primary schooling.
Task‐dependent uncertainty modulation of perceptual decisions in the human brain
Authors: Li Sheng , Yang Feitong
Published: October 2012

Perceptual judgments are frequently made during uncertain situations. Previous human brain imaging studies have revealed multiple cortical and subcortical areas that are activated when decision uncertainty is linked to outcome probability. However, the neural mechanisms of uncertainty modulation in different perceptual decision tasks have not been systematically investigated. Uncertainty of perceptual decision can originate either from highly similar object categories (e.g. tasks based on criterion comparison) or from noise being added to visual stimuli (e.g. tasks based on signal detection). In this study, we used functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to investigate the neural mechanisms of task‐dependent modulation of uncertainty in the human brain during perceptual judgements. We observed correlations between uncertainty levels and fMRI activity in a network of areas responsible for performance monitoring and sensory evidence comparison in both tasks. These areas are associated with late stages of perceptual decision, and include the posterior medial frontal cortex, dorsal lateral prefrontal cortex, and intraparietal sulcus. When the modulation of uncertainty on the two tasks was compared, dissociable cortical networks were identified. Uncertainty in the criterion comparison task modulated activity in the left lateral prefrontal cortex related to rule retrieval. In the signal detection task, uncertainty modulated activity in higher visual processing areas thought to be sensory information ‘accumulators’ that are active during early stages of perceptual decision. These findings offer insights into the mechanism of information processing during perceptual decision‐making.
Functional traits explain phytoplankton community structure and seasonal dynamics in a marine ecosystem
Authors: Edwards Kyle F. , Litchman Elena , Klausmeier Christopher A.
Published: October 2012

A fundamental yet elusive goal of ecology is to predict the structure of communities from the environmental conditions they experience. Trait‐based approaches to terrestrial plant communities have shown that functional traits can help reveal the mechanisms underlying community assembly, but such approaches have not been tested on the microbes that dominate ecosystem processes in the ocean. Here, we test whether functional traits can explain community responses to seasonal environmental fluctuation, using a time series of the phytoplankton of the English Channel. We show that interspecific variation in response to major limiting resources, light and nitrate, can be well‐predicted by lab‐measured traits characterising light utilisation, nitrate utilisation and maximum growth rate. As these relationships were predicteda priori, using independently measured traits, our results show that functional traits provide a strong mechanistic foundation for understanding the structure and dynamics of ecological communities.
Electron spectroscopic analysis of the human lipid skin barrier: cold atmospheric plasma‐induced changes in lipid composition
Authors: Marschewski Marcel , Hirschberg Joanna , Omairi Tarek , Höfft Oliver , Viöl Wolfgang , Emmert Steffen , Maus‐Friedrichs Wolfgang
Published: October 2012

The lipids of the stratum corneum comprise the most important components of the skin barrier. In patients with ichthyoses or atopic dermatitis, the composition of the skin barrier lipids is disturbed resulting in dry, scaly, itching erythematous skin. Using the latest X‐Ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS) technology, we investigated the physiological skin lipid composition of human skin and the effects of cold atmospheric plasma treatment on the lipid composition. Skin lipids were stripped off forearms of six healthy volunteers using the cyanoacrylate glue technique, plasma treated or not and then subjected to detailed XPS analysis. We found that the human lipid skin barrier consisted of 84.4% carbon (+1.3 SEM%), 10.8% oxygen (+1.0 SEM%) and 4.8% nitrogen (+0.3 SEM%). The composition of physiological skin lipids was not different in males and females. Plasma treatment resulted in significant changes in skin barrier lipid stoichiometry. The total carbon amount was reduced to 76.7%, and the oxygen amount increased to 16.5%. There was also a slight increase in nitrogen to 6.8%. These changes could be attributed to reduced C‐C bonds and increased C‐O, C=O, C‐N and N‐C‐O bonds. The moderate increase in nitrogen was caused by an increase in C‐N and N‐C‐O bonds. Our results show for the first time that plasma treatment leads to considerable changes in the human skin lipid barrier. Our proof of principle investigations established the technical means to analyse, if plasma‐induced skin lipid barrier changes may be beneficial in the treatment of ichthyotic or eczematous skin.
The skin surface as antimicrobial barrier: present concepts and future outlooks
Authors: Harder Jürgen , Schröder Jens‐Michael , Gläser Regine
Published: October 2012

Human skin protects the body as an outer barrier from various environmental threats and has to deal with an immense quantity of microbes comprising members of the own microbiota as well as potential pathogenic microbes. In this viewpoint, we highlight important cutaneous first‐line defense barriers from the perspective of a microbe that tries to colonize and invade human skin. We place special emphasis on the role of antimicrobial peptides and the microbiota. In addition, we discuss and try to provide answers to some emerging issues concerning the various defense strategies of the epidermis.
Trigeminal neuralgia: diagnostic criteria, clinical aspects and treatment outcomes. A retrospective study
Authors: Ibrahim Suzan
Published: October 2012

Objective

The aim of this study was to investigate the diagnostic criteria and clinical presentations and compare the different treatment modalities in relation to prognosis in a sample of patients with the neuropathic disorder trigeminal neuralgia (TN).

Methods

A retrospective review study of clinical records was conducted of 92 patients diagnosed with TN.

Results

The mean age[± standard deviation (SD)] of the patients was 67.3 ± 12.7 years with an average TN duration of 7.1 ± 6 years and a female predominance (M:F = 1:2.5). The maxillary branch was the most involved nerve (in 45% of patients). Twelve patients underwent CT scans, while thirty‐six patients had MRIs. Carbamazepine used by 92.4% of patients was the most commonly used drug in the management of the disorder. Twenty‐two patients had microvascular decompression (MVD). TN symptoms were completely relieved following surgery in 73% of patients who underwent neurosurgery.

Conclusions

MRI is highly sensitive in the exclusion of central intracranial lesions and recommended as a routine consideration during the assessment of TN patients. Despite the side effects, carbamazepine is the drug therapy of choice. MVD produces satisfactory relief of TN symptoms in the majority of cases and should be offered to young healthy patients.
‘Talking the talk or walking the walk?’ A bibliometric review of the literature on public involvement in health research published between 1995 and 2009
Authors: Boote Jonathan , Wong Ruth , Booth Andrew
Published: October 2012

Objectives

To characterise the literature on public involvement in health research published between 1995 and 2009.

Methods

Papers were identified from three systematic reviews, one narrative review and two bibliographies. The analysis identified journals where papers were published; countries of lead authors; types of public involved; health topic areas; and stages of research involving the public. Papers were also classified as to whether they were literature reviews or empirical studies; focused on participatory/action research; were qualitative, quantitative or mixed‐method. The number of papers published per year was also examined.

Findings

Of the 683 papers identified, 297 were of USA origin and 223 were of UK origin. Of the 417 empirical papers: (i) participatory/action research approach was dominant, together with qualitative data collection methods; (ii) the stage of research the public was most involved was question identification; (iii) indigenous groups were most commonly involved; (iv) mental health was the most common health topic. Published studies peaked in 2006.

Conclusions

The present study identifies publication patterns in public involvement in health research and provides evidence to suggest that researchers increasingly are ‘walking the walk’ with respect to public involvement, with empirical studies consistently out‐numbering literature reviews from 1998.
Fluoride and silver concentrations of silver diammine fluoride solutions for dental use
Authors: Mei May Lei , Chu Chun Hung , Lo Edward Chin Man , Samaranayake Lakshman Perera
Published: October 2012

Objective

To determine the short‐term stability of free fluoride ion concentrations and acidity (pH values) of three commercially available SDF solutions over time.

Methods

Three SDF products for caries control were studied: Cariestop‐12%, Cariestop‐30% and Saforide‐38%. Their expected fluoride ion concentrations were 14,200, 35,400 and 44,800 ppm, respectively. The fluoride ion concentrations were determined with an ion‐selective electrode. The acidity was determined with a pH electrode. The measurements were performed when open and at 7 and 28 days.

Results

The mean fluoride ion concentrations of the freshly opened bottles were 12,525 ± 450, 13,200 ± 2060 and 55,800 ± 2536 ppm, respectively. The mean pH values were 9.4 ± 0.1, 10.4 ± 0.1 and 10.2 ± 0.2, respectively. No significant change (P > 0.05) in the fluoride ion concentrations or the acidity was detected after 7 or 28 days.

Conclusion

The three SDF tested solutions were alkaline. The fluoride ion concentrations of Cariestop‐30% and Saforide‐38% were considerably different. The fluoride ion concentrations and acidity of the products demonstrated a short‐term stability over 28 days.
Conservation challenges in urban seascapes: promoting the growth of threatened species on coastal infrastructures
Authors: Perkol‐Finkel Shimrit , Ferrario Filippo , Nicotera Valentina , Airoldi Laura
Published: October 2012

With nearly two‐thirds of the human population concentrated along coastlines, coastal development and urbanized seascapes are inevitable. Proliferation of coastal and marine infrastructures, such as breakwaters, ports, seawalls and offshore installations, is associated with loss of natural habitats. This calls for new strategies aimed at elevating the ecological and biological value of coastal infrastructures, while minimizing their ecological footprint.

We explored the feasibility of using coastal defence structures as a scaffold for the conservation of threatened marine species. We experimented with fucoids, canopy‐forming algae on Mediterranean coasts, in the light of their declared conservation priority. We transplanted juveniles of Cystoseira barbata to a number of breakwaters and natural sites along the Adriatic Sea (Italy) and tested which factors could facilitate or inhibit its successful establishment.

Survival of transplanted C. barbata was greater at most artificial and natural sites examined compared to the native sites where severe habitat loss was ongoing. Survival was greater at landward compared to seaward positions on the infrastructure, while no relevant effects of substratum characteristics (horizontal vs. vertical orientation, variable composition and increasing complexity) were observed. Lack of surrounding adult fronds did not impair the survival or growth of the transplants, suggesting a high transplantation potential also on novel infrastructures.

Success of transplantation in areas remote from the source population was limited by biotic disturbance, which was more intense on coastal infrastructures in sedimentary environments compared to natural rocky sites.

Synthesis and applications. Coastal and marine infrastructures can be harnessed to enhance desired species (such as threatened canopy‐forming algae). A comprehensive understanding of the ecological functioning of these urban seascapes compared to natural habitats is required to minimize detrimental impacts, or potentially increase the ecological value, of coastal structures and efficiently incorporate such strategies into management and conservation actions. We investigated the influence of habitat type (including natural and artificial), surface complexity, herbivore exclusion, proximity to established populations and orientation on the transplantation success of threatened algae.
Effects of predator control on behaviour of an apex predator and indirect consequences for mesopredator suppression
Authors: Brook Leila A. , Johnson Christopher N. , Ritchie Euan G.
Published: October 2012

Apex predators can benefit ecosystems through top–down control of mesopredators and herbivores. However, apex predators are often subject to lethal control aimed at minimizing attacks on livestock. Lethal control can affect both the abundance and behaviour of apex predators. These changes could in turn influence the abundance and behaviour of mesopredators.

We used remote camera surveys at nine pairs of large Australian rangeland properties, comparing properties that controlled dingoes Canis lupus dingo with properties that did not, to test the effects of predator control on dingo activity and to evaluate the responses of a mesopredator, the feral cat Felis catus.

Indices of dingo abundance were generally reduced on properties that practiced dingo control, in comparison with paired properties that did not, although the effect size of control was variable. Dingoes in uncontrolled populations were crepuscular, similar to major prey. In populations subject to control, dingoes became less active around dusk, and activity was concentrated in the period shortly before dawn.

Shifts in feral cat abundance indices between properties with and without dingo control were inversely related to corresponding shifts in indices of dingo abundance. There was also a negative relationship between predator visitation rates at individual camera stations, suggesting cats avoided areas where dingoes were locally common. Reduced activity by dingoes at dusk was associated with higher activity of cats at dusk.

Our results suggest that effective dingo control not only leads to higher abundance of feral cats, but allows them to optimize hunting behaviour when dingoes are less active. This double effect could amplify the impacts of dingo control on prey species selected by cats. In areas managed for conservation, stable dingo populations may thus contribute to management objectives by restricting feral cat access to prey populations.

 Synthesis and applications. Predator control not only reduces indices of apex predator abundance but can also modify their behaviour. Hence, indicators other than abundance, such as behavioural patterns, should be considered when estimating a predator's capacity to effectively interact with lower trophic guilds. Changes to apex predator behaviour may relax limitations on the behaviour of mesopredators, providing enhanced access to resources and prey.
Autoimmune cholangitis and cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Li Jun , Zhao Chaochen , Shen Yuechun
Published: October 2012

Autoimmune cholangitis, immunoglobulin G4‐associated cholangitis (IAC), is a part of multiorgan IgG4‐related systemic disease, which was recognized as a new clinicopathological entity in recent years. IAC is defined as a biliary stricture that responds to steroid therapy, frequently is associated with other fibrosing conditions, especially autoimmune pancreatitis and is characterized by elevation of IgG4 in serum and infiltration of IgG4 positive plasma cells in bile ducts. Since IAC shares a number of clinical, biochemical, and imaging features with cholangiocarcinoma (CCA), it is often misdiagnosed as CCA, and unnecessary surgery was performed. In this compact review, we clarify the disease of IAC, summarize criteria for diagnosis of IAC, discuss the role of CA 19‐9, and provide key information to differentiate diagnosis of IAC from CCA. IAC should be highly suspected in unexplained biliary stricture associated with increased IgG4 (in serum especially in bile) and other organ involvement (kidney, retroperitoneum etc. especially pancreas in which there are abundant IgG4‐positive plasmocytes infiltration). Correct diagnosis of IAC will avoid unnecessary surgery because IAC responds well to steroid therapy. In a word, increased IgG4 levels, other organ involvement and response to steroids are keys to distinguishing IAC from CCA.
Comparison of clinical characteristics of combined hepatocellular‐cholangiocarcinoma and other primary liver cancers
Authors: Lee Chern‐Horng , Hsieh Sen‐Yung , Chang Chee‐Jen , Lin Yu‐Jr
Published: October 2012

Background and Aim

Combined hepatocellular‐cholangiocarcinoma (CHC) is a rare liver malignancy. In this study, we compared patient characteristics and outcomes for primary CHC, intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC), and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

Methods

Medical records of patients with tissue‐proven CHC (65 cases) treated at the Chang Gung Memorial Hospital between 1991 and 2005 were retrospectively reviewed. These records were compared to records of patients diagnosed with tissue‐proven HCC (1985 cases) and ICC (127 cases) during the same period.

Results

Hepatitis B and C are major causes of CHC. CHC patients exhibited greater similarity to HCC than to ICC patients with respect to cirrhotic changes, age, and positive serology for hepatitis B surface antigen and anti‐hepatitis C antibody. Survival was related to tumor characteristics and intervention therapies, but not to etiologies.

Conclusions

The clinical characteristics of CHC are similar to those of HCC, but overall survival is more similar to that of ICC; survival may be related to tumor biology rather than the cause. Multimodal treatment with an initial aggressive therapeutic approach can improve survival.
Chest computed tomography predicts microbiological burden and symptoms in pulmonary Mycobacterium xenopi
Authors: MARRAS THEODORE K. , WAGNETZ UTE , JAMIESON FRANCES B. , PATSIOS DEMETRIS A.
Published: October 2012

Background and objective:  The development of computed tomography (CT) findings usually precedes the diagnosis of pulmonary nontuberculous mycobacterial infection. The utility of specific CT scan features, although often available long before respiratory sample cultures, is not fully understood. We sought to assess associations among CT features, symptoms and microbiological disease criteria in pulmonary Mycobacterium xenopi isolation.

Methods:  We reviewed 70 consecutive immunocompetent patients with pulmonary M. xenopi isolation and classified them according to the American Thoracic Society (ATS) diagnostic criteria for disease. ‘Definite disease’ patients (n = 16) met modified ATS criteria. ‘Possible disease’ patients (n = 10) met microbiological criteria, had abnormal CT scans, but data regarding symptoms were unavailable. ‘No disease’ patients (n = 44) had only one positive sputum culture, or were asymptomatic or had no relevant CT findings. Two radiologists, without knowledge of the clinical or microbiological information, independently reviewed the scans.

Results:  The mean (standard deviation) age of all patients was 63 (16) years, and 39% were women. Patients with ‘definite disease’ usually had nodules (88%) and cavities (63%), but less often bronchiectasis (50%) and tree‐in‐bud (50%). Patients with ‘possible’ or ‘no disease’, respectively, had nodules (100% or 80%), bronchiectasis (40% or 18%) or tree‐in‐bud (40% or 11%). Cavitation (P ≤ 0.0001) and nodules ≥5 mm (P = 0.0002) were associated with fulfilled microbiological criteria for disease. Bronchiectasis (P = 0.02) and nodules <5 mm (P = 0.002) were associated with symptoms of infection.

Conclusions:  Among immunocompetent patients with pulmonary M. xenopi isolation, cavitation and large nodules predict fulfilling microbiological disease criteria, while bronchiectasis and small nodules predict symptoms.