bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Linking and opening vocabularies LHT special issue: Editorial
Authors: Greenberg Jane , Mendez Rodriguez Eva , Bueno de la Fuente Gema
Published: October 2013

Purpose

– This editorial underscores the importance of linked data and linked open data (LD/LOD) in contemporary librarianship and information science. It aims to present the motivation for this special issue of Library High Tech (LHT), specifically the theme of linking and opening vocabularies (LOV) as a component of the LOD landscape. The editorial also seeks to describe the content of the papers and their contributions in the areas of current practice, trends, and R&D (research and development).

Design/methodology/approach

– The editorial is organized into four main sections: Introductory aspects about linking open data; the context and inspiration for this special issue of LHT; a description of the accepted papers highlighting their contribution for LOV; and a conclusion.

Findings

– The editorial presents several reflective insights for advancing LOD and LOV practices that may lead toward a more integrated semantic web.

Originality/value

– The editorial presents a synthesis of the three editors' views on approaching the subject of linking open vocabularies. The framework for the editorial is reflected in the original call for papers that supported this special issue.
The role of external influences in high involvement purchase behaviour
Authors: Nayeem Tahmid , Casidy Riza
Published: October 2013

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to discover the consumer decision-making style clusters within the context of automobile purchases in Australia. It also examines the differences between consumer decision-making styles in terms of the importance given to external influences, such as importance of dealers, importance of friends/family members, number of cars test driven, time spent researching final decision and importance of information sources (e.g. internet, magazines, TV ads, word of mouth, etc.), prior to making their final purchase decision.

Design/methodology/approach

– Data were collected from 209 respondents using self-administered questionnaires. Cluster analysis and ANOVA were employed to identify and analyse the differences between consumer decision-making style clusters. Consumer Styles Inventory (CSI; Sproles and Kendall, 1986) was used to measure respondents’ consumer decision-making styles in relation to automobile purchases.

Findings

– Three clusters were identified from the analysis, namely “innovative informed”, “rational confused”, and “traditional habitual”. Significant differences were found between the clusters in terms of the average time they spent with each car dealer, the time they spent on researching final decision and the importance of consulting with family members prior to making their final purchase decision.

Practical implications

– The paper found that some consumers rely heavily on friends/families and dealers as the most important sources of information. Other sources of information consumers use include television advertisements, newspapers, billboards and magazines. Based on the findings, marketers should focus on providing similar types of information/messages by using these above-mentioned sources when communicating with this type of consumers. Dealers could be trained to spend time explaining product features and benefits in full with these consumers and their friends and family members whom they are likely to bring along before making the final purchase decision.

Originality/value

– The findings of this study have extended the knowledge by determining the impact of external influences on consumer decision-making styles using the CSI in context of specific product which is yet to be known in relation to Australian automobile consumers.
Customer relationship management: the evolving role of customer data
Authors: Saarijärvi Hannu , Karjaluoto Heikki , Kuusela Hannu
Published: October 2013

Purpose

– Customer relationship management (CRM) developed a separate identity as a result of companies utilising customer data in managing customer relationships. In this evolution, CRM became a heavily company-oriented construct: customer data were used instrumentally to serve companies’ purposes. However, as companies increasingly shift attention from selling products to serving customers, traditional CRM activities, such as segmentation and cross-selling, may prove inappropriate owing to their inherent orientation towards selling more products to customers. The perspective on customer data usage needs to better address the strategic goal of serving customers. Consequently, the purpose of the paper is to reconfigure the role of customer data within the CRM framework.

Design/methodology/approach

– CRM literature is briefly reviewed and a case study is conducted to empirically illustrate how customer data can be used also for the benefit of the customer.

Findings

– As a result, four CRM waves are identified that characterise the evolving role of customer data in CRM and help identify new directions for customer data usage. The focus is shifted from the internal to the external use of customer data: customer data are increasingly understood to be a resource for the customer's – not just the firm's – value creation.

Originality/value

– The paper introduces a fresh perspective to CRM by exploring the evolving role of customer data within the CRM framework. New directions for customer data are introduced that have major implications both theoretically and practically.
Critical success factors for B2B e-markets: a strategic fit perspective
Authors: Johnson Michael
Published: October 2013

Purpose

– The objective of this paper is to explore and determine a set of factors that are critical to the success of business-to-business (B2B) e-markets in the aerospace and defence, healthcare, higher education and local government industry sectors, in order to advance our current understanding of what factors facilitate e-market adoption and success. The paper examines critical success factors (CSFs) for e-markets from a strategic fit perspective.

Design/methodology/approach

– The study adopted a semi-inductive qualitative approach based on a review of the literature, followed by a pilot study and 58 indepth semi-structured interviews with senior level executives in buyer, supplier, e-market and third-party organisations. Qualitative data analysis software, QSR N6, was used to code and analyse the interview data for citations that corresponded with the candidate e-market CSFs that had been identified either in the literature, pilot study or during the course of the interviews with respondents. The CSFs for e-markets were ranked by the frequency of respondents citing a particular CSF.

Findings

– The study found eight factors that are critical to e-market success and four factors (critical mass, integration issues, value proposition, and leadership participation) were found to be conducive to e-market success in all four industry sectors. Likewise, four factors (industry knowledge, revenue model, branding and reputation, and rich content) were found to be only conducive to e-market success in three of the four industry sectors.

Practical implications

– The paper can help academic researchers, managers, consultants, practitioners and other professionals better understand what factors are critical to the success of e-markets and other online enterprises operating in the B2B marketspace.

Originality/value

– There have been numerous calls for more empirical research on the dynamics of e-market adoption for more than a decade. To date, research on the CSFs for e-markets has been largely anecdotal and sporadic with a paucity of studies noting factors that are likely to be favourable to e-market success. This study addresses the call for more research on e-markets and imparts empirical evidence on factors that are perceived to be conducive to the success of e-markets. It contributes to the base of knowledge on e-markets by relating the concept of CSFs with the theory of strategic fit as, to date, no known study has examined CSFs for e-markets from a strategic fit perspective. The study also presents the benefits capabilities-industry participants’ needs fit conceptual model as a precursor for theory building in future studies on B2B e-markets and informs stakeholders involved in developing e-markets or other online B2B ventures to better comprehend the conditions and determinants of success.
An investigation of the association between ownership structure and corporate performance
Authors: Alipour Mohammad
Published: October 2013

Purpose

– The main purpose of the present research is to study the relationship between ownership concentration and the type of ownership, i.e. state, firm (legal persons), individual, family, institutional – on the value of the companies listed in Tehran Stock Exchange (TSE).

Design/methodology/approach

– The study applies panel data regression analysis to a sample of companies listed in TSE during the period 2005-2009. Two-stage least-squares analysis is conducted.

Findings

– The paper finds that ownership concentration is positively related to ROE, and that ownership concentration is negatively related to ROA. Moreover, state, family, and individual ownership are negatively related to performance, and firm (legal person) and institutional ownership are positively related to performance. The paper also finds that higher firm profitability requires a more diffused ownership structure.

Research limitations/implications

– The results of the present research support agency theory and efficient monitoring hypothesis. The results strongly suggest the failure of state ownership in increasing companies' value and underline the importance of accelerating privatization in Iran.

Practical implications

– To improve the performance and consequently the value of companies, the process of privatization in Iran must be accelerated and public ownership must be transferred to the private sector. Further, investors must pay special attention to the type of ownership and ownership concentration of companies when deciding to buy their shares.

Originality/value

– The study builds on prior research in several ways. First, the paper offers new insights into the relationship between corporate governance and economic performance by using data from Iranians listed firms, this new evidence from an emerging market enhances the understanding of corporate governance in Asian countries. Second, the study focuses on five dimensions: ownership concentration, state, firm, individual, family, and institutional ownership which allow one to get a more accurate picture of the ownership structure-firm value relationship.
Executives and smartphones: an ambiguous relationship
Authors: Paula Borges Ana , Antonio Joia Luiz
Published: October 2013

Purpose

– This paper aims to investigate whether the technological paradoxes identified and prevalent in a series of technologies are also identified in the relationship between executives and smartphones, as well as which of these paradoxes is most strongly detected in this relationship.

Design/methodology/approach

– It was adopted the simple case study method, in which the individual is the unit of analysis. Therefore, a medium-sized company that operates in the Brazilian pharmaceutical market was chosen since the majority of its senior executives use the smartphone as a tool in their day-to-day work.

Findings

– Two paradoxes generated strong ambiguity regarding the use of smartphones by the executives, namely continuity vs asynchronicity and autonomy vs addiction. Furthermore, three other paradoxes were moderately associated with the use of smartphones by the executives, namely freedom vs enslavement, dependence vs independence, and planning vs improvisation.

Research limitations/implications

– By using only one organisation in the case study, the generalisation of results might be prejudiced.

Practical implications

– The identification of technological paradoxes provides input for the development of strategies aimed at minimising these ambiguities on the part of executives.

Originality/value

– This paper not only identified some smartphone-enabled paradoxes among Brazilian executives, but also established an approach to measure the intensity of these paradoxes.
‘Your whole life is lived through your teeth’: biographical disruption and experiences of tooth loss and replacement
Authors: Rousseau Nikki , Steele Jimmy , May Carl , Exley Catherine
Published: October 2013

The experience and meaning of tooth loss and replacement has varied historically and culturally but has received relatively little attention from social scientists. Our study set out to understand these experiences in the context of the arrival of newer, dental implant treatments. Semi‐structured qualitative interviews were carried out with 39 men and women who had experienced tooth loss and replacement. A thematic analysis was sensitised by previous sociological work on chronic illness, particularly Bury's notion of biographical disruption. We found that while for some individuals the loss of a tooth was relatively insignificant, for others it was devastating and disruptive. In seeking to understand this difference, the concept of biographical disruption was a helpful analytical tool. Our analysis identified two forms of disruption. The first related to the meanings of tooth loss (the neglected mouth) and denture wearing (a marker of old age). The second, embodied, disruption concerned the relationship between the self and mouth in those wearing dentures (the invaded, unreliable mouth) and could occur even where tooth loss and denture wearing had been biographically anticipated.
Hospital consultations and jurisdiction over patients: consequences for the medical profession
Authors: Oh Hyeyoung
Published: October 2013

Advances in biomedical technologies and the increased specialisation of the medical profession have made collaborations among specialty physicians integral to care delivery. As physicians increasingly must share patients, how does this shape the jurisdiction that physicians hold? The sociological literature has extensively documented inter‐professional jurisdictional claims and conflicts to maintain the professional power of physicians in relation to allied occupational groups. However, less is known of intra‐professional avoidance and resolution of conflict over jurisdiction. This case study considers how jurisdictions are shared, maintained and challenged in a single profession. Drawing from ethnographic and interview data collected from September 2010 to October 2012 on the internal medicine service of a teaching hospital in the USA, I demonstrate the variation in jurisdictional conflicts that emerge between internal medicine and other specialties during the consultation process. Ignoring shared jurisdictions and refusing to accept jurisdiction of patients generate disputes among the principal medical and specialist teams. These disputes ensue due to blurred boundaries dividing the various specialties. To avoid conflicts, internal medicine physicians adopt strategies behind the scenes to facilitate smooth consultations.
Pathologic Findings of Coronary Stents: A Comparison of Sudden Coronary Death Versus Non‐cardiac Death
Authors: Mont Erik , Cresswell Nathaniel , Burke Allen
Published: October 2013

There are few histologic studies of intracoronary stents found at autopsy. We studied histologic findings of 87 intracoronary stents from 45 autopsy hearts. There were 40 patients with chronically implanted stents and five shorter than 30 days. Of five patients with recent stent placement, the cause of death was related to the stent (in‐stent thrombosis) in one case. Of the 40 patients with chronic stents, there were 16 sudden coronary deaths and 24 noncoronary deaths (controls). There were no late stent thromboses in the coronary deaths. In the coronary deaths, 26% of stents showed restenosis versus 11% in controls (p = 0.1). The rate of healed infarcts and cardiomegaly was similar in the coronary and noncoronary groups, and acute thrombi in native arteries were seen only in three hearts in the coronary group. We conclude that the cause of death is rarely impacted by in‐stent findings at autopsy, especially in chronically implanted stents.
Expert consensus on blood pressure management of diabetic patients in China (中国糖尿病患者血压管理专家共识)
Authors: Peng Yongde
Published: October 2013

This Expert Consensus proposed by the Chinese Society of Endocrinology (CSE) updates concepts on hypertension management in patients with diabetes. It focuses on clinical outcomes literature published within the past 5 years and currently in press, and incorporates these new observations into modifications of established guidelines. Complications and mortality in diabetic patients are increased when hypertension is present. The present update focuses on questions such as what to do when a diabetic patient has an elevated blood pressure level when therapy is initiated and whether combinations of agents should be used as soon as possible. Although the strategies and principles of treatment remain unchanged, approaches to specific patient‐related issues influencing cardiovascular outcomes in people with diabetes have changed. Finally, an updated integrated management of multiple cardiovascular risk factors is provided and is suggested as a starting point to achieve blood pressure goals. In addition to controlling blood pressure, the CSE suggests that individualized strategies are equally important and that attention should be paid to other factors, including safety (which is the most important), feasibility, and health economic evaluation.
Evaluating the role of inbreeding depression in heterozygosity‐fitness correlations: how useful are tests for identity disequilibrium?
Authors: Kardos Marty , Allendorf Fred W. , Luikart Gordon
Published: October 2013

Heterozygosity‐fitness correlations (HFCs) have been observed for several decades, but their causes are often elusive. Tests for identity disequilibrium (ID, correlated heterozygosity between loci) are commonly used to determine if inbreeding depression is a possible cause of HFCs. We used computer simulations to determine how often ID is detected when HFCs are caused by inbreeding depression. We also used ID in conjunction with HFCs to estimate the proportion of variation (r2) in fitness explained by the individual inbreeding coefficient (F). ID was not detected in a large proportion of populations with statistically significant HFCs (sample size = 120 individuals) unless the variance of F was high (σ2(F) ≥ 0.005) or many loci were used (100 microsatellites or 1000 SNPs). For example, with 25 microsatellites, ID was not detected in 49% of populations when HFCs were caused by six lethal equivalents and σ2(F) was typical of vertebrate populations (σ2(F) ≈ 0.002). Estimates of r2 between survival and F based on ID and HFCs were imprecise unless ID was strong and highly statistically significant (P ≈ 0.01). These results suggest that failing to detect ID in HFC studies should not be taken as evidence that inbreeding depression is absent. The number of markers necessary to simultaneously detect HFC and ID depends strongly on σ2(F). Thus the mating system and demography of populations, which influence σ2(F), should be considered when designing HFC studies. ID should be used in conjunction with HFCs to estimate the correlation between fitness and F, because HFCs alone reveal little about the strength of inbreeding depression.
Soil Security: Solving the Global Soil Crisis
Authors: Koch Andrea , McBratney Alex , Adams Mark , Field Damien , Hill Robert , Crawford John , Minasny Budiman , Lal Rattan , Abbott Lynette , O'Donnell Anthony , Angers Denis , Baldock Jeffrey , Barbier Edward , Binkley Dan , Parton William , Wall Diana H. , Bird Michael , Bouma Johan , Chenu Claire , Flora Cornelia Butler , Goulding Keith , Grunwald Sabine , Hempel Jon , Jastrow Julie , Lehmann Johannes , Lorenz Klaus , Morgan Cristine L. , Rice Charles W. , Whitehead David , Young Iain , Zimmermann Michael
Published: October 2013

Soil degradation is a critical and growing global problem. As the world population increases, pressure on soil also increases and the natural capital of soil faces continuing decline. International policy makers have recognized this and a range of initiatives to address it have emerged over recent years. However, a gap remains between what the science tells us about soil and its role in underpinning ecological and human sustainable development, and existing policy instruments for sustainable development. Functioning soil is necessary for ecosystem service delivery, climate change abatement, food and fiber production and fresh water storage. Yet key policy instruments and initiatives for sustainable development have under‐recognized the role of soil in addressing major challenges including food and water security, biodiversity loss, climate change and energy sustainability. Soil science has not been sufficiently translated to policy for sustainable development. Two underlying reasons for this are explored and the new concept of soil security is proposed to bridge the science–policy divide. Soil security is explored as a conceptual framework that could be used as the basis for a soil policy framework with soil carbon as an exemplar indicator.
Hierarchical spatial capture–recapture models: modelling population density in stratified populations
Authors: Royle J. Andrew , Converse Sarah J.
Published: October 2013

Capture–recapture studies are often conducted on populations that are stratified by space, time or other factors. In this paper, we develop a Bayesian spatial capture–recapture (SCR) modelling framework for stratified populations – when sampling occurs within multiple distinct spatial and temporal strata.

We describe a hierarchical model that integrates distinct models for both the spatial encounter history data from capture–recapture sampling, and also for modelling variation in density among strata. We use an implementation of data augmentation to parameterize the model in terms of a latent categorical stratum or group membership variable, which provides a convenient implementation in popular BUGS software packages.

We provide an example application to an experimental study involving small‐mammal sampling on multiple trapping grids over multiple years, where the main interest is in modelling a treatment effect on population density among the trapping grids.

Many capture–recapture studies involve some aspect of spatial or temporal replication that requires some attention to modelling variation among groups or strata. We propose a hierarchical model that allows explicit modelling of group or strata effects. Because the model is formulated for individual encounter histories and is easily implemented in the BUGS language and other free software, it also provides a general framework for modelling individual effects, such as are present in SCR models.
A novel approach to rapidly prevent age‐related cognitive decline
Authors: Adlard Paul A. , Sedjahtera Amelia , Gunawan Lydia , Bray Lisa , Hare Dominic , Lear Jessica , Doble Philip , Bush Ashley I. , Finkelstein David I. , Cherny Robert A.
Published: October 2013

The loss of cognitive function is a pervasive and often debilitating feature of the aging process for which there are no effective therapeutics. We hypothesized that a novel metal chaperone (PBT2; Prana Biotechnology, Parkville, Victoria, Australia) would enhance cognition in aged rodents. We show here that PBT2 rapidly improves the performance of aged C57Bl/6 mice in the Morris water maze, concomitant with increases in dendritic spine density, hippocampal neuron number and markers of neurogenesis. There were also increased levels of specific glutamate receptors (alpha‐amino‐3‐hydroxy‐5‐methyl‐4‐isoxazolepropionic acid and N‐methyl‐d‐aspartate), the glutamate transporter (VGLUT1) and glutamate itself. Markers of synaptic plasticity [calmodulin‐dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII) and phosphorylated CaMKII, CREB, synaptophysin] were also increased following PBT2 treatment. We also demonstrate that PBT2 treatment results in a subregion‐specific increase in hippocampal zinc, which is increasingly recognized as a potent neuromodulator. These data demonstrate that metal chaperones are a novel approach to the treatment of age‐related cognitive decline.
Be aware ofDrinkaware
Authors: McCambridge Jim , Kypri Kypros , Miller Peter , Hawkins Ben , Hastings Gerard
Published: October 2013

In 2006,Drinkaware was established as a charity in theUnited Kingdomfollowing a memorandum of understanding between thePortmanGroup and variousUKgovernment agencies. This debate piece briefly reviews the international literature on industry social aspects organizations, examines the nature ofDrinkaware's activities and considers how the public health community should respond. Although theBritish addiction field and the wider public health community have distanced themselves from thePortmanGroup, they have not done so fromDrinkaware, even thoughDrinkaware was devised by thePortmanGroup to serve industry interests. Both long‐standing and more recent developments indicate very high levels of industry influence onBritish alcohol policy, andDrinkaware provides one mechanism of influence. We suggest that working with, and for, industry bodies such asDrinkaware helps disguise fundamental conflicts of interest and serves only to legitimize corporate efforts to promote partnership as a means of averting evidence‐based alcohol policies. We invite vigorous debate on these internationally significant issues and propose that similar industry bodies should be carefully studied in other countries.
Developmental defects of enamel and dentine: challenges for basic science research and clinical management
Authors: Seow WK
Published: October 2013

Abnormalities of enamel and dentine are caused by a variety of interacting factors ranging from genetic defects to environmental insults. The genetic changes associated with some types of enamel and dentine defects have been mapped, and many environmental influences, including medical illnesses that can damage enamel and dentine have been identified. Developmental enamel defects may present as enamel hypoplasia or hypomineralization while dentine defects frequently demonstrate aberrant calcifications and abnormalities of the dentine‐pulp complex. Clinically, developmental enamel defects often present with problems of discolouration and aesthetics, tooth sensitivity, and susceptibility to caries, wear and erosion. In contrast, dentine defects are a risk for endodontic complications resulting from dentine hypomineralization and pulpal abnormalities. The main goals of managing developmental abnormalities of enamel and dentine are early diagnosis and improvement of appearance and function by preserving the dentition and preventing complications. However, despite major advances in scientific knowledge regarding the causes of enamel and dentine defects, further research is required in order to translate the knowledge gained in the basic sciences research to accurate clinical diagnosis and successful treatment of the defects.
Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide Induces an Immunosuppressant Microenvironment in the Maternal–Fetal Interface of Non‐Obese Diabetic Mice and Improves Early Pregnancy Outcome
Authors: Hauk Vanesa , Azzam Sofía , Calo Guillermina , Gallino Lucila , Paparini Daniel , Franchi Ana , Ramhorst Rosanna , Leirós Claudia Pérez
Published: October 2013

Problem

Impaired pregnancy in non‐obese diabetic (NOD) mice was related to limited vascular remodeling and autoimmune background. Vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) has anti‐inflammatory and immunosuppressant effects, so we explored its ability to modulate the immune microenvironment at the early maternal–placental interface and improve pregnancy in NOD mice.

Method of study

Implantation sites were isolated from pregnant NOD mice at gestational day 9.5 and were incubated with VIP for evaluation of cytokine or transcription factor expression by RT‐PCR, immunoblotting, and immunohistochemistry. Alternatively, pregnant mice were injected with VIP at day 6.5 and studied at day 9.5.

Results

VIP and VPAC receptors were detected in viable implantation sites. VIP immunostaining was found predominantly on trophoblast giant cells. The in vitro treatment of viable implantation sites with VIP increased IL‐10, TGF‐β, and Foxp3 expression. Sites with resorption processes presented lower VIP expression, reduced suppressant markers, and increased IL‐17 and RORγT expression compared with viable sites and VIP reduced RORγT expression. Pregnant mice treated with VIP at day 6.5 presented an even distribution of viable implantation sites with an increased expression of IL‐10, TGF‐ β, and Foxp3.

Conclusion

VIP induces an immunosuppressant profile at the early maternal–placental interface of NOD mice and improves pregnancy outcome.
Varieties of Clientelism: Machine Politics during Elections
Authors: Gans‐Morse Jordan , Mazzuca Sebastián , Nichter Simeon
Published: October 2013

Although many studies of clientelism focus exclusively on vote buying, political machines often employ diverse portfolios of strategies. We provide a theoretical framework and formal model to explain how and why machines mix four clientelist strategies during elections: vote buying, turnout buying, abstention buying, and double persuasion. Machines tailor their portfolios to the political preferences and voting costs of the electorate. They also adapt their mix to at least five contextual factors: compulsory voting, ballot secrecy, political salience, machine support, and political polarization. Our analysis yields numerous insights, such as why the introduction of compulsory voting may increase vote buying, and why enhanced ballot secrecy may increase turnout buying and abstention buying. Evidence from various countries is consistent with our predictions and suggests the need for empirical studies to pay closer attention to the ways in which machines combine clientelist strategies.
The relationship between experience and mental workload in anaesthetic practice: an observational study
Authors: Byrne A.J. , Murphy A. , McIntyre O. , Tweed N.
Published: October 2013

Mental workload is seen as a key factor in defining performance and expertise in some complex work environments, but there are no validated instruments for assessing mental workload in anaesthesia. We studied the mental workload of 20 anaesthetists of varying levels of experience, during five routine cases each, by measuring the delay in their responses to a frequently, but randomly, administered vibrotactile stimulus as a secondary task. We delivered, and recorded response times for, 6096 stimuli, with a median (range) of 55.5 (9–178) responses per case. Subjects learnt rapidly to respond to the device and there was no evidence of a ‘learning curve’ that might bias our results. There was limited evidence of a relationship between workload and experience; for instance, in trainees completing simple cases, mental workload had a negative linear relationship with training grade (rho = −0.360, p = 0.006). However, average differences between trainees and qualified practitioners in response times to the stimulus were overshadowed by differences between subjects at the same level of experience. Finally, although the number of ‘hands full’ responses was small, removing these from the analysis had a greater effect than expected, suggesting that the ‘hands full’ condition is not random, but varies with experience and may be independently associated with expertise. This method appears feasible for use in clinical practice and may, with refinement, aid the identification and tracking of the development of expertise in anaesthetic trainees.
Role of extended lymphadenectomy in the treatment of pancreatic head adenocarcinoma: review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Svoronos Christos , Tsoulfas Georgios , Katsourakis Anastasios , Noussios Georgios , Chatzitheoklitos Euthymmios , Marakis N. Georgios
Published: October 2013

Background

Extended lymph node dissection has been established as the method of choice in the treatment of many digestive malignancies, but its role in the treatment of adenocarcinoma of the pancreas remains controversial.

Objectives

The goal is to evaluate the role of extended lymph node dissection in pancreatic head adenocarcinoma and to review how it affects survival, morbidity, mortality and post‐operative quality of life.

Methods

A computerized search was made of the Medline database from January 1973 to October 2012. Fifteen non‐duplicated studies, four randomized and 11 non‐randomized, comparing extended radical pancreaticoduodenectomy (ERP) and standard pancreaticoduodenectomy were reviewed. Five‐year overall survivals were compared using the MetaXL software in eight of these studies, where the necessary data were available.

Results

The 5‐year survival after ERP ranged from 6 to 33.4% and the local recurrence incidence from 8 to 36.1%, while the incidence of severe diarrhoea, one of the main complications, ranged from 10.8 to 42.4%. Meta‐analysis showed that there was no significant difference in the 5‐year overall survival (95% confidence interval (CI): −0.21–0.20, Z = 0.07, P = 0.94) for randomized control trials, (95% CI: −0.51–0.02, Z = 1.85, P = 0.07) for non‐randomized control trials and (95% CI: −0.26–0.06, Z = 1.20, P = 0.23) for all the studies.

Conclusions

Although ERP is a safe procedure, it did not offer a significant improvement in survival, while at the same time leading to an increased incidence of severe diarrhoea for at least 1 year, thus leaving the standard pancreaticoduodenectomy as the surgical method of choice for the treatment of pancreatic head adenocarcinoma.
Historical aspects of appendicitis in children
Authors: Hamill James K. , Liley Andrew , Hill Andrew G.
Published: October 2013

Evidence of appendicitis exists from ancient Egyptian mummies but the appendix was not discovered as an anatomical entity until the renaissance in Western European literature. Much confusion reigned over the cause of right iliac fossa inflammatory disease until the late 19th century, when the appendix was recognized as the cause of the great majority of cases. Coining the term ‘appendicitis’ and making the case for early surgery, Fitz in 1886 set the scene for recovery from appendicitis through operative intervention.
Midterm results using a medial pivot total knee replacement compared with the Australian National Joint Replacement Registry data
Authors: Brinkman Justus‐Martijn , Bubra Preet Singh , Walker Peter , Walsh William R. , Bruce Warrick J. M.
Published: October 2013

Background

In order to emulate normal knee kinematics more closely, and thereby potentially improve wear characteristics and implant longevity, the medial pivot‐type knee replacement geometry was designed. In the current study the outcome of 50 consecutive knee replacements using a medial pivot‐type knee replacement was compared with the results in the Australian Orthopaedic Association National Joint Replacement Registry.

Methods

Pre‐ and post‐operatively at follow‐up evaluation consisted of the Knee Society score system and the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index Score. Patient satisfaction was documented using 5‐point Likert‐type scales. Standard radiographs were used to assess signs of radiographic failure. Revisions were subcategorized into major total, major partial and minor. Patient records were cross‐referenced against the Australian Orthopaedic Associations National Joint Replacement Registry's and the outcome compared with the registry's subset of data on the medial pivot knee used.

Results

According to the patients' Knee Society score system and Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index scores, there was good pain relief and functional improvement; none of the implants showed radiographic signs of failure. There was one minor revision. There was no statistically significant difference in revision rate compared with the registry results.

Discussion

The medial pivot knee‐type implant in this series provided pain relief, functional improvement and a revision rate, similar to what is reported in the literature after a longer follow‐up period, which is reassuring for those who use this type of implant on a day‐to‐day basis.
Pure laparoscopic posterior sectionectomy for liver metastasis resulting from choroidal malignant melanoma: A case report
Authors: Umemura Akira , Nitta Hiroyuki , Sasaki Akira , Takahara Takeshi , Hasegawa Yasushi , Wakabayashi Go
Published: October 2013

Liver metastases resulting from primary choroidal malignant melanomas occur frequently and have a poor prognosis. As a result of advancements in multidisciplinary approaches, life expectancy can be increased when R0 resection is possible. Herein we report the surgical outcomes of pure laparoscopic posterior sectionectomy (PLPS) in a patient with a solitary liver metastasis resulting from choroidal malignant melanoma. The subject was a 46‐year‐old Japanese man who had received radiotherapy for primary right choroidal malignant melanoma 2 years before presenting at our hospital; he subsequently underwent ophthalmectomy as a result of the relapse. During follow‐up, CT revealed a metastatic lesion in the liver S7, and interventional treatments were performed sequentially. The lesion still showed a tendency to enlarge, so we performed PLPS. On postoperative day 7, the patient was discharged from the hospital, and he started to receive adjuvant chemotherapy 2 weeks after PLPS. Although PLPS is deemed to be difficult for lesions in the upper part or posterior segment of the liver, we performed this modality safely.
Complete laparoscopic surgery for early colorectal cancer after endoscopic resection
Authors: Endo Shungo , Takehara Yusuke , Tanaka Jun‐ichi , Hidaka Eiji , Mukai Shumpei , Omoto Tomokatsu , Ishida Fumio , Kudo Shin‐ei
Published: October 2013

Introduction

Laparoscopic‐assisted colorectal surgery requires a mini‐laparotomy to extract the specimen and insert the anvil head of the circular stapler into the proximal colon. However, such a mini‐laparotomy occasionally causes local pain and surgical‐site infection. To avoid mini‐laparotomy, we invented a new laparoscopic technique, complete laparoscopic surgery for colorectal cancer.

Materials and Surgical Technique

Sigmoid colon or rectal cancer patients who had undergone colonoscopic excision for T1 cancer and subsequently required bowel resection due to unfavorable histology were recruited. This new procedure used both the double stapling technique and the rectal‐prolapsing technique, where the anvil was transanally inserted into the proximal colon and bowel resection was extracorporeally performed after pulling out the colon–rectum via the anus.

Discussion

This procedure was attempted in 17 patients and successfully achieved in 13 patients. Total laparoscopic colorectal surgery has some problems such as bacterial contamination or infection, as well as dissemination caused by intraluminal exfoliated cancer cells. This procedure is limited to post‐endoscopic resection patients who are suited for reconstruction by double stapling technique, and it may be impossible in patients with thick mesentery or anal stenosis. Moreover, this method resolves issues of peritoneal contamination and dissemination. However, a new protection method for implantation of exfoliated cancer cells needs to be established, so that complete laparoscopic surgery can be employed in patients with small cancers.
Salvage treatment of laparoscopic cholecystectomy‐associated bile duct stenosis combining laparoscopic and endoscopic procedures: A case report
Authors: Iimuro Yuji , Okada Toshihiro , Ohashi Koichiro , Uda Yugo , Suzumura Kazuhiro , Fujimoto Jiro
Published: October 2013

The incidence of laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC)‐associated bile duct injury has reached a steady state despite learning curve effect. Herein we report the case of a 74‐year‐old Japanese man who suffered from bile duct stenosis and stones after LC. The stenosis was due to stricture caused by surgical clips used inappropriately during LC. We planned a salvage treatment combining laparoscopic and endoscopic approaches. At laparoscopic observation, the clips had already invaded the right side of the bile duct; minimal absorbable suture was performed after all the clips were removed. The bile duct stenosis was then endoscopically dilated and the biliary stones were successfully removed. For the recurrent biliary stenosis after discharge, endoscopic balloon dilation was performed and multiple plastic stent tubes were placed. The stent tubes were removed 4 months later, and the patient has had no symptoms for 1 year. A combined laparoscopic and endoscopic approach was useful for the salvage treatment of LC‐associated bile duct stenosis.
Successful laparoscopic management of a primary omental pregnancy: Case report and review of literature
Authors: Tanase Yasuhito , Yoshida Shozo , Furukawa Naoto , Kobayashi Hiroshi
Published: October 2013

A 32‐year‐old gravid 1, parity 0 woman was referred to our hospital with suspicion of ectopic pregnancy 31 days after her previous menstrual period. She had a 5‐month history of secondary infertility reported increasing lower abdominal pain. Her serum human chronic gonadotropin level was 8160 mIU/mL. Her medical history was significant for a myomectomy and an enucleation of left ovarian cyst. On suspicion of an ectopic pregnancy, laparoscopic exploration was performed. Dense pelvic adhesion was seen. After dissection of the adhesion, we could not find the blastocyst in her pelvis. Early pregnancy tissue implanted in the omentum was identified and was excised laparoscopically. The postoperative course was uneventful. When no ectopia is found in the fallopian tubes during laparoscopy or laparotomy for ectopic pregnancy, all peritoneal surfaces and the omentum must be carefully inspected during surgery.
Single‐incision laparoscopic and endoscopic cooperative surgery for gastrointestinal stromal tumor arising from the duodenum
Authors: Ohi Masaki , Yasuda Hiromi , Ishino Yoshito , Katsurahara Masaki , Saigusa Susumu , Tanaka Kyosuke , Tanaka Koji , Mohri Yasuhiko , Inoue Yasuhiro , Uchida Keiichi , Kusunoki Masato
Published: October 2013

We report a case involving a minimally invasive single‐incision laparoscopic and endoscopic cooperative local excision of a duodenal gastrointestinal stromal tumor. A 59‐year‐old man presented with a 35‐mm lesion located in the second portion of the duodenum. A local resection was performed via single‐incision laparoscopic and endoscopic cooperative surgery. Intraluminal endoscopic dissection of the duodenal mucosa and submucosa was performed circumferentially around the tumor. The resection was then completed by laparoscopic dissection of the seromuscular layer around the tumor. The tumor was retrieved laparoscopically. After confirming that the resection achieved clear surgical margins, we closed the duodenal wall with a laparoscopic stapling device. There were no postoperative complications, including stenosis. Single‐incision laparoscopic and endoscopic cooperative surgery can be safely and effectively performed for a duodenal submucosal tumor.
Suspected Lythrum hyssopifolia (lesser loosestrife) poisoning of cattle
Authors: Tran JN , Yang P‐J , Morton AG , Todd AA , Boulton JG , Philbey AW
Published: October 2013

Case report

Morbidity and mortality in two herds of cattle in southern New South Wales were associated with ingestion of lesser or hyssop loosestrife (Lythrum hyssopifolia). Clinical signs in adult cows included depression, listlessness, inappetence, anorexia and recumbency.

Deaths occurred in 16/48 (33.3%) and 4/60 (6.7%) adult cows, but calves in both herds were unaffected. Elevated concentrations of urea and creatinine were present in the serum of one clinically affected cow and an elevated concentration of urea was detected in the aqueous humour of one cow that died. On histopathological examination, there was severe, acute necrosis of the proximal convoluted tubular epithelial cells in the kidneys of both affected cattle examined.

Conclusion

There is strong evidence that lesser loosestrife is nephrotoxic for cattle.
Unique presentation of normolipaemic cutaneous xanthoma in a cat
Authors: Ravens PA , Vogelnest LJ , Piripi SA
Published: October 2013

Case report

A normolipaemic 7‐year‐old female spayed Domestic Shorthair was initially presented with a history of pruritus for several years and diagnosed with concurrent atopic dermatitis, flea bite hypersensitivity and adverse food reaction. The hypersensitivities were controlled with cyclosporin, allergen‐specific immunotherapy, topical flea control and a restricted diet.

Five months after initial presentation, the cat developed a non‐healing nodular ulcerated cutaneous lesion in the left axilla and also developed immune‐mediated haemolytic anaemic (IMHA). The IMHA was stabilised, but the axillary lesion persisted and progressed to a diffuse, firm, yellowed subcutaneous swelling over the ventral body approximately 20 months later. Histopathology was consistent with cutaneous xanthoma. The cat was normolipaemic and being fed a home‐prepared diet of lean kangaroo meat and pumpkin to manage pruritus associated with adverse food reactions. No underlying malignancy was detected on routine screening tests.

Conclusion

A diffuse, planar form of cutaneous xanthoma occurring without associated lipaemia has not been previously reported in cats.
Haematological and biochemical variations among eight sighthound breeds
Authors: Uhríková I , Lačňáková A , Tandlerová K , Kuchařová V , Řeháková K , Jánová E , Doubek J
Published: October 2013

Objective

The aim of the study was to compare the haematological and biochemical profiles of eight sighthound breeds.

Design

Samples were taken from 192 individuals of the sighthound breeds (Whippet,Greyhound,ItalianGreyhound,Sloughi,Saluki,Borzoi,PharaohHound andAzawakh). Routine haematological and biochemical examinations were performed and the results were evaluated statistically.

Results

There were significant differences in haematology and clinical biochemistry among the sighthound breeds. The most similar laboratory profile toGreyhounds was found inWhippets.ItalianGreyhounds had significantly higher alanine aminotransferase activity than other sighthounds, exceptPharaohHounds.

Conclusion

Application of theGreyhound laboratory profile to other sighthounds is not recommended because of the frequent differences in haematological and clinical biochemical reference intervals.
A longitudinal intergenerational analysis of executive functions during early childhood
Authors: Cuevas Kimberly , Deater‐Deckard Kirby , Kim‐Spoon Jungmeen , Wang Zhe , Morasch Katherine C. , Bell Martha Ann
Published: October 2013

Despite the importance of executive function (EF) in both clinical and educational contexts, the aetiology of individual differences in early childhood EF remains poorly understood. This study provides the first longitudinal intergenerational analysis of mother–child EF associations during early childhood. A group of children and their mothers (n = 62) completed age‐appropriate EF tasks. Mother and child EFs were modestly correlated by 24 months of age, and this association was stable through 48 months. Importantly, maternal–child EF associations were still robust after controlling for verbal ability (potential indicator of verbal/crystallized intelligence) and maternal education (correlate of socio‐economic status and verbal intelligence). Potential implications of these findings as well as underlying mechanisms of the maternal–child EF association (gene–environment interplay) are discussed.