bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Determinants of user behaviour and recommendation in social networks
Authors: Curras-Perez Rafael , Ruiz-Mafe Carla , Sanz-Blas Silvia
Published: October 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to analyse the determinants of social network use behaviour using Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) and Uses and Gratifications Theory.

Design/methodology/approach

– A quantitative study was carried out with data gathered by personal interview using a structured questionnaire. Relationships proposed in the theoretical model were estimated through structural equation models. In total, 811 users of social networks over 14 and residents in Spain were part of the sample.

Findings

– Results indicate that use attitude and the subjective norm, both TPB variables, directly and significantly influence social network loyalty. Thus, network loyalty can be achieved if the individual shows a favourable attitude towards use and receives positive feed-back (comments, opinions, etc.) from friends, acquaintances and other individuals in their environment. Perceived control has no influence on social network loyalty. Finally, this research highlights the importance of socialisation and entertainment as antecedents of social network attitude.

Research limitations/implications

– Social network use has been analysed globally and database includes users with very different profiles (e.g. Facebook and Tuenti) what may skew the results.

Practical implications

– Individuals access social networks to establish social links with friends/family/acquaintances, seeking entertainment and fun, but they are never used to be fashionable or up-to-date. Given the importance of social relations, companies should motivate participation elements in their social networks profiles.

Originality/value

– The paper presents a model that explains the formation of loyal social network customers, integrating TPB and Uses and Gratifications Theory to enable understanding of the role of these networks in individuals’ lives.
Gaining customer knowledge in low cost airlines through text mining
Authors: Yee Liau Bee , Pei Tan Pei
Published: October 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to study the consumer opinion towards the low-cost airlines or low-cost carriers (LCCs) (these two terms are used interchangeably) industry in Malaysia to better understand consumers’ needs and to provide better services. Sentiment analysis is undertaken in revealing current customers’ satisfaction level towards low-cost airlines.

Design/methodology/approach

– About 10,895 tweets (data collected for two and a half months) are analysed. Text mining techniques are used during data pre-processing and a mixture of statistical techniques are used to segment the customers’ opinion.

Findings

– The results with two different sentiment algorithms show that there is more positive than negative polarity across the different algorithms. Clustering results show that both K-Means and spherical K-Means algorithms delivered similar results and the four main topics that are discussed by the consumers on Twitter are customer service, LCCs tickets promotions, flight cancellations and delays and post-booking management.

Practical implications

– Gaining knowledge of customer sentiments as well as improvements on the four main topics discussed in this study, i.e. customer service, LCCs tickets promotions, flight cancellations or delays and post-booking management will help LCCs to attract more customers and generate more profits.

Originality/value

– This paper provides useful insights on customers’ sentiments and opinions towards LCCs by utilizing social media information.
Facilitating workplace spirituality: lessons from Indian spiritual traditions
Authors: Pardasani Rupali , R. Sharma Radha , Bindlish Puneet
Published: October 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to seek to propose that spiritual traditions of India have enormous wisdom to provide a wholesome spiritual foundation to the modern day management. It can also play a significant role in facilitating the dimensions of workplace spirituality as conceptualized by the western counterparts. The paper does not intend to reinvent the wheel but to present an integrated framework for facilitating workplace spirituality that incorporates the western and the Indian views.

Design/methodology/approach

– For this study, the authors maintained an open approach. The authors first reviewed the extant literature on workplace spirituality to explore its dimensions. Thereafter, the authors searched for Indian spiritual traditions that can be suggested to have some similarity with the dimensions of workplace spirituality and can further help in facilitating those dimensions at the workplace.

Findings

– The paper presents an integrated framework that suggests that doctrine of Karma Yoga, tradition of Loksangrah, Guna theory, daivi sampat and Pancha Kosha model can help in facilitating the five dimensions of workplace spirituality specified in the study.

Research limitations/implications

– The study proposes five dimensions of workplace spirituality which is not an exhaustive list. These dimensions may be facilitated by a variety of Indian spiritual traditions but this study includes only five specific Indian traditions.

Originality/value

– The authors have creatively integrated the eastern and the western knowledge to come up with a framework that enriches the concept of workplace spirituality facilitation.
How to develop spiritual awareness in the organization
Authors: Shah Snehal , Sachdev Anil
Published: October 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to propose a theoretical model that leverages the practical wisdom of the Panch-Kosa framework of yogic philosophy to develop an awareness of spirituality in the organization. It also provides quasi-quantitative empirical evidence to demonstrate its potential application.

Design/methodology/approach

– A survey was designed and administered in four different organizations. Correlation, ANOVA andχ2 analysis were conducted to explore the applicability of the proposed framework.

Findings

– The results indicate that values, as reflected in the physical aspects of an organization such as its logo, symbols and organizational elements characterized as “practice of Fair Governance” and “HR Effectiveness”, influence employee-related outcomes. Further, the study found that when there is a perfect “alignment” between an organization's intent to honor values and its corresponding actions, employees perceive the highest levels of holistic engagement.

Research limitations/implications

– This study has an implication on how to leverage practical wisdom from Hindu philosophy to enable individuals and organizations to transform to a higher level of consciousness.

Originality/value

– The paper has ventured into an uncharted territory of integrating the yogic framework of Panch-Kosa to the organizational elements and has provided preliminary support for its applicability in organizations. Moreover, it operationalizes the notion of alignment between organization's value-centric strategy and actions and its impact on employee-related outcomes.
Adam Smith as Bodhisattva? A metta analysis of global leadership
Authors: William Swierczek Fredric , Jousse Dominique
Published: October 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to review approaches to Authentic Leadership and Mindfulness and to Global Competencies from the Buddhist perspective of Leadership Rajadhamma. It considers the parallel approach of Adam Smith's Moral Leadership.

Design/methodology/approach

– The emphasis of this paper is a critique of the limitations of current teaching and practices in developing ethics and moral conduct in MBA programs and Global Leadership programs.

Findings

– There is insufficient attention given to the Buddhist thought and practice of Leadership. Rajadhamma emphasizing the “Right Mind” and “Right Conduct.” Because of his moral philosophy Adam Smith is offered as of an exemplar of Bodhisattva whom business executives would respect and emulate.

Research limitations/implications

– This study is metatheoretical. The implications of this approach are to design Global Leadership Competencies with a greater emphasis on morality and ethical conduct. The practical wisdom of the Bodhisattva can provide a positive foundation for this design.

Originality/value

– From the metatheoretical perspective the Theory of Moral Sentiments of Adam Smith has very interesting parallels with Buddhist practice in the twenty-first century with guidance for Global Leaders.
The theoretical foundation of Buddhist management practices
Authors: Kovács Gábor
Published: October 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to explore adaptable Buddhist teachings in economic circumstances, and provide a firm theoretical foundation for a possible Buddhist management approach. It aims to show that the application of Buddhist practical wisdom is contributing to achieve more beneficial economic outcome and management practices.

Design/methodology/approach

– The paper is overviewing the Buddhist teachings, which aims at the cessation of suffering. It emphasizes tenets influencing right livelihood and economic practice. Further it investigates the mainstream economic system and Buddhist economics. It compares the two economic approaches by making parallel constructions of them, and reveals the foundation of a new management approach stem from the Buddhist view of economic affairs.

Findings

– The application of the Buddhist values of mindfulness, non-harming and compassion in management practice serves adequate solutions to the most pressing issues of economics, since it is inherently fair, just and economically efficient. It allows an individually-, socially- and environmentally friendly management praxis by employing a minimizing framework.

Practical implications

– The evidence that doing business in the Buddhist way is economically efficient is the foundation of an alternative management practice. Thus, managers and entrepreneurs are encouraged to employ a Buddhist way for management.

Social implications

– Applying Buddhist teachings to economics alleviates the most pressing problems of the society. It contributes to equality, justice and the cessation of poverty by ensuring basic necessities to people.

Originality/value

– The paper sets up a parallel investigation of Buddhism, mainstream economics, and Buddhist economics by making a parallel model of them. It contrasts neoclassical economics with Buddhist economics, and ensures a firm foundation for Buddhist management approaches.
Buddhism and decision making at individual, group and organizational levels
Authors: Vallabh Priyanka , Singhal Manish
Published: October 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to explore how practical wisdom rooted in Buddhism can help modern managers make decisions in contemporary business organizations.

Design/methodology/approach

– The paper suggests a model explaining how individual level Buddhist beliefs in Dependent Origination are reflected in behavior of individual through mindfulness, compassion and expansion of self. The model also explores the consequences of above mentioned behavior in terms of individual, group and organizational level decision making, respectively.

Findings

– The paper develops propositions which demonstrate the possibility of applying the practical wisdom of Buddhism into the individual, group and organizational decision-making processes. The paper proposes an integrative model and suggests initiatives that can be taken in business organizations and business schools for applying the practical wisdom gleaned from the Buddhist traditions.

Research limitations/implications

– The paper brought the core concepts of Buddhism as the main point of application in the decision-making process in management. However, this approach is perhaps difficult to grasp for the readers who may not be as conversant with that tradition.

Originality/value

– Rich eastern traditions have remained underexplored in contemporary business literature. This paper examines the potential contributions from the Buddhist heritage in the crucial decision-making domain in management.
Are leadership values different across generations?
Authors: J. Ahn Mark , W. Ettner Larry
Published: October 2014

Purpose

– The popular use of labels such as Baby Boomers, Generation X, Generation Y and Millennials suggests that the nature of effective leadership changes over time in response to the prevailing modern context. Using a values-based leadership lens, defined as the moral foundation underlying stewardship decisions and actions of leaders, the purpose of this paper is to explore the alternative notion that fundamental leadership ideals – from antiquity to modern executives to MBA students – are timeless in nature.

Design/methodology/approach

– Using a thematic analysis approach,The Aeneidwas coded for key leadership themes (integrity, good judgment, leadership by example, decision-making, trust, justice/fairness, humility, and sense of urgency); and a mixed-method research framework was employed to juxtapose the leadership lessons identified to the demands of modern leadership. Deductive thematic analysis was utilized to examine key themes from responses of 13 multi-sectoral leaders (for profit, non-profit, government) and 137 MBA students (from three MBA programs in differing regions).

Findings

– Whether viewed qualitatively or quantitatively, or across sectors, the findings of this study affirm the explicit relevance ofThe Aeneidto the demands of modern leadership. Additionally, it was found that the way managers ranked leadership values was not significantly different from how MBA students ranked the same values. Moreover, the authors found integrity to be a superordinate value – without which the remaining values have far less significance.

Originality/value

– This research highlights a leadership paradox – while managerial traits are an important consideration for the prevailing operational context in the short term, a values-based approach to hiring, promoting and retaining leaders may be superior in achieving organizational sustainability and performance. This study illustrates the practical contemporary relevance ofThe Aeneidspecifically, and illustrates a humanities laden and values-based approach to reflecting on leadership effectiveness generally.
High versus low online price discounts: effects on customers’ perception of risks
Authors: Eun Lee Jung , Stoel Leslie
Published: October 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to examine the signaling effects of high versus low price discounts by integrating extant literature on price discounts, perceived risks and purchase intentions for products sold online. The study examines the influence of price discounts on perceived risks, and the subsequent influence of these risk perceptions on online purchase intentions.

Design/methodology/approach

– This study used an experimental design. The manipulated factor was price discount (10, 30, 50, 70 and 90 per cent). Responses were collected via online surveys. Nonlinear regression analysis with the MEDCURVE macro was used for the analysis.

Findings

– The results show that the discount size increases customers’ perceived risks, and that these perceived risks mediate the relationship between price discount and purchase intentions.

Practical implications

– This study provides a better understanding of customers’ risk perceptions for online price discounts, which enables retailers to decide appropriate price discounts to attract customers.

Originality/value

– Most previous literature focusing on price discounts takes into consideration the presentation effect on consumers’ positive perceptions, while this study investigates the price discount effect on customers’ negative perceptions. In particular, this study examines the mediating effect of perceived risks on the relationship between price discount and purchase intention, which has not been investigated in previous studies.
Profiling behavioral pricing research in marketing
Authors: Somervuori Outi
Published: October 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to provide an overview of behavioral pricing research, including the identification of the primary areas studied and a summary of the core findings in each based on previous literature.

Design/methodology/approach

– This research examines 613 articles on the ISI Web of Science database and focuses on marketing journals that discuss behavioral pricing. The reviews of these articles use traditional literature review and research profiling methods.

Findings

– The main subareas in behavioral pricing this study identifies are the price–quality relationship, reference price, price awareness, price elasticity estimation and price fairness. In general, the behavioral pricing field is relatively new, and all subareas would benefit from additional research.

Originality/value

– For pricing researchers, this study offers integrative insights into the field based on previous literature and identifies the main contribution and main topic of each. The study also offers suggestions for new research ideas.
A cross‐seasonal perspective on local adaptation: metabolic plasticity mediates responses to winter in a thermal‐generalist moth
Authors: Williams Caroline M. , Chick Wesley D. , Sinclair Brent J.
Published: October 2014

The physiological and ecological impact of the thermal environment across life stages can result in trade‐offs that determine fitness and population dynamics. Understanding mechanisms and consequences of local adaptation for any organism that overwinters requires taking a cross‐seasonal perspective.

We used a trait‐based approach to distinguish variation among ecotypes in ecological and physiological responses to overwintering conditions. We used fall webworms (Hyphantria cunea;Lepidoptera:Arctiidae) fromOttawa,Ontario andColumbusOhio, representing the centre and periphery of the native range.

We hypothesized that populations would be locally adapted to their overwintering environments, with fitness maximized under natal overwintering conditions. We predicted that this local adaptation would result from modulation of rates of energy use, growth and development.

Each ecotype had higher overwinter survival in their natal compared with non‐natal winter environment, and this was associated with larger pupal mass, size and carbohydrate reserves at the end of winter. This suggests that the ecotypes are locally adapted to winter conditions. Larger adults laid more eggs, but there was no effect of ecotype or environment on fecundity.

Pupae overwintering at warm, energetically demanding, southern temperatures suppressed metabolic rates in autumn, and developed more quickly in the spring, compensating for energetic demands of warmer winters. Northern ecotypes had lower thermal sensitivity of metabolism, leading to higher metabolic rates at cool temperatures that correlated with faster post‐winter development.

Local adaptation to winter conditions suggests performance of peripheral populations may not be enhanced by warming winters. Decoupling of winter and growing season temperatures may negatively impact ectotherms.
Anomalous electrical resistivity anisotropy in clean reservoir sandstones
Authors: North Laurence J. , Best Angus I.
Published: October 2014

We report novel laboratory measurements of the full electrical resistivity tensor in reservoir analogue quartzose sandstones with clay contents less than 1.5%. We show that clean, homogeneous, visually uniform sandstone samples typically display between 15% and 25% resistivity anisotropy with minimum resistivity normal to the bedding plane. Thin‐section petrography, analysis of fabric anisotropy, and comparison to finite‐element simulations of grain pack compaction show that the observed anisotropy symmetries and magnitudes can be explained by syn‐depositional and post‐depositional compaction processes. Our findings suggest that: electrical resistivity anisotropy is likely to be present in most clastic rocks as a consequence of ballistic deposition and compaction; compaction may be deduced from measurements of electrical anisotropy; and the anisotropy observed at larger scales in well logging and controlled‐source electromagnetic data, with maximum resistivity normal to bedding, is most likely the result of meso‐scale (10−1 m–101 m) periodic layering of electrically dissimilar lithologies.
Pressure adaptation is linked to thermal adaptation in salt‐saturated marine habitats
Authors: Alcaide María , Stogios Peter J. , Lafraya Álvaro , Tchigvintsev Anatoli , Flick Robert , Bargiela Rafael , Chernikova Tatyana N. , Reva Oleg N. , Hai Tran , Leggewie Christian C. , Katzke Nadine , La Cono Violetta , Matesanz Ruth , Jebbar Mohamed , Jaeger Karl‐Erich , Yakimov Michail M. , Yakunin Alexander F. , Golyshin Peter N. , Golyshina Olga V. , Savchenko Alexei , Ferrer Manuel ,   The MAMBA Consortium
Published: October 2014

The present study provides a deeper view of protein functionality as a function of temperature, salt and pressure in deep‐sea habitats. A set of eight different enzymes from five distinct deep‐sea (3040–4908 m depth), moderately warm (14.0–16.5°C) biotopes, characterized by a wide range of salinities (39–348 practical salinity units), were investigated for this purpose. An enzyme from a ‘superficial’ marine hydrothermal habitat (65°C) was isolated and characterized for comparative purposes. We report here the first experimental evidence suggesting that in salt‐saturated deep‐sea habitats, the adaptation to high pressure is linked to high thermal resistance (Pvalue = 0.0036). Salinity might therefore increase the temperature window for enzyme activity, and possibly microbial growth, in deep‐sea habitats. As an example, LakeMedee, the largest hypersaline deep‐sea anoxic lake of theEasternMediterraneanSea, where the water temperature is never higher than 16°C, was shown to contain halopiezophilic‐like enzymes that are most active at 70°C and with denaturing temperatures of 71.4°C. The determination of the crystal structures of five proteins revealed unknown molecular mechanisms involved in protein adaptation to poly‐extremes as well as distinct active site architectures and substrate preferences relative to other structurally characterized enzymes.
Cytochrome c‐based domain modularity governs genus‐level diversification of electron transfer to dissimilatory nitrite reduction
Authors: Aas Finn Erik , Li Xi , Edwards James , Hongrø Solbakken Monica , Deeudom Manu , Vik Åshild , Moir James , Koomey Michael , Aspholm Marina
Published: October 2014

The genus
Neisseria contains two pathogenic species (N. meningitidis and N. gonorrhoeae) in addition to a number of commensal species that primarily colonize mucosal surfaces in man. Within the genus, there is considerable diversity and apparent redundancy in the components involved in respiration. Here, we identify a unique c‐type cytochrome (cN) that is broadly distributed among commensal Neisseria, but absent in the pathogenic species. Specifically, cN supports nitrite reduction in N. gonorrhoeae strains lacking the cytochromes c5 and CcoP established to be critical to NirK nitrite reductase activity. The c‐type cytochrome domain of cN shares high sequence identity with those localized c‐terminally in c5 and CcoP and all three domains were shown to donate electrons directly to NirK. Thus, we identify three distinct but paralogous proteins that donate electrons to NirK. We also demonstrate functionality for a N. weaverii NirK variant with a C‐terminal c‐type heme extension. Taken together, modular domain distribution and gene rearrangement events related to these respiratory electron carriers within Neisseria are concordant with major transitions in the macroevolutionary history of the genus. This work emphasizes the importance of denitrification as a selectable trait that may influence speciation and adaptive diversification within this largely host‐restricted bacterial genus.
Microfluidic single‐cell analysis links boundary environments and individual microbial phenotypes
Authors: Dusny Christian , Schmid Andreas
Published: October 2014

Life is based on the cell as the elementary replicative and self‐sustaining biological unit. Each single cell constitutes an independent and highly dynamic system with a remarkable individuality in a multitude of physiological traits and responses to environmental fluctuations. However, with traditional population‐based cultivation set‐ups, it is not possible to decouple inherent stochastic processes and extracellular contributions to phenotypic individuality for two central reasons: the lack of environmental control and the occlusion of single‐cell dynamics by the population average. With microfluidic single‐cell analysis as a new cell assay format, these issues can now be addressed, enabling cultivation and time‐resolved analysis of single cells in precisely manipulable extracellular environments beyond the bulk. In this article, we explore the interplay of cellular physiology and environment at a single‐cell level. We review biological basics that govern the functional state of the cell and put them in context with physical fundamentals that shape the extracellular environment. Furthermore, the significance of single‐cell growth rates as pivotal descriptors for global cellular physiology is discussed and highlighted by selected studies. These examples illustrate the unique opportunities of microfluidic single‐cell cultivation in combination with growth rate analysis, addressing questions of fundamental bio(techno)logical interest.
Family therapy for an Internet‐addicted young adult with interpersonal problems
Authors: Park Tai Young , Kim Sunhee , Lee Jieha
Published: October 2014

This qualitative case study examined the effectiveness of treating an Internet‐addicted young adult suffering from interpersonal problems based on the Mental Research Institute (MRI) interactional model and Murray Bowen's family systems theory. We analysed the data with a consistent comparative analysis method as well as utilizing Miles and Huberman's matrix and network. We determined that the characteristics of the parents’ family of origin and dysfunctional communication pattern were factors associated with the interpersonal problems revealed by the Internet‐addicted young adult. Factors that influenced problem‐solving consisted of the awareness of the relationship between the family of origin and presenting problems, improved communication among family members and overcoming the young adult's resistance. The findings of this study reveal that both the MRI model and Bowen's family systems theory were effective treatments for an Internet‐addicted young adult with interpersonal problems.

Practitioner points

An extensive analysis of family‐of‐origin problems and communication patterns might be beneficial in treating an Internet‐addicted young adult with interpersonal problems.

Treatment outcomes will be enhanced if the therapist is aware of the relationship between the family of origin and the nuclear family.

Functional and sincere conversation between parent and child is imperative to ameliorate risks involved with Internet addiction.
Thematic review of family therapy journals in 2013
Authors: Carr Alan
Published: October 2014

In this article the contents of the principal English‐language family therapy journals and key family therapy articles published in other journals in 2013 are reviewed under these headings: models of family therapy, developments in family therapy practice, couple therapy, training, diversity, international developments, research and DSM‐5.

Practitioner points

Ecosystemic structural family therapy, FFT, MST, MDFT and other traditional systemic approaches, with recent adaptations, may be helpful for an increasing range of populations.

Developments in research and practice support the value of father involvement in systemic therapy, conducting family therapy in medical settings and using family therapy to treat adolescent eating disorders.

The integration of mindfulness into couple therapy, and new approaches to addressing infidelity are important developments to consider in treating couples.
Information communication technologies and the family: friend or foe?
Authors: Singh Reenee
Published: October 2014

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Breastfeeding and pelvic girdle pain: a follow‐up study of 10 603 women 18 months after delivery
Authors: Bjelland E. K. , Owe K. M. , Stuge B , Vangen S , Eberhard‐Gran M
Published: October 2014

Objective

To study the associations of patterns and duration of breastfeeding with the persistence of pelvic girdle pain 18 months after delivery.

Design

Longitudinal population study.

Setting

Norway, for the period 1999–2011.

Population

A follow‐up of 10 603 women with singleton deliveries in the Norwegian Mother and Child Cohort Study who reported pelvic girdle pain at 0–3 months postpartum.

Methods

Data were obtained by four self‐administered questionnaires and linked to the Medical Birth Registry of Norway.

Main outcome measure

Pelvic girdle pain, defined as combined anterior and bilateral posterior pelvic pain, 18 months after delivery.

Results

Eighteen months after delivery, 7.8% of respondents (829/10 603) reported pelvic girdle pain. Breastfeeding patterns at 5 months after delivery were not associated with persistence of pelvic girdle pain. The proportion of women with pelvic girdle pain 18 months after delivery increased as the duration of breastfeeding decreased (test for trend, P < 0.001). The estimated associations attenuated after adjustment for educational level, smoking status, and body mass index, but remained statistically significant for the association between 0 and 2 months of breastfeeding and persistent pelvic girdle pain (adjusted odds ratio 1.34; 95% confidence interval 1.03–1.75). The association of short breastfeeding duration with persistent pelvic girdle pain was only present in women with body mass index ≥25 kg/m2.

Conclusions

Breastfeeding was associated with a small beneficial effect on the recovery process of pelvic girdle pain in women with a body mass index ≥25 kg/m2. Among women with pelvic girdle pain, breastfeeding should be encouraged in accordance with the existing child‐feeding recommendations.
Stability of Whey Proteins during Thermal Processing: A Review
Authors: Wijayanti Heni B. , Bansal Nidhi , Deeth Hilton C.
Published: October 2014

Whey proteins have many benefits due to their high nutritional value and their various applications in food products. A drawback of whey proteins is their instability to thermal processing, which leads to their denaturation, aggregation, and, under some conditions, gelation. As thermal processing is a major treatment in the processing of milk and milk products, its influence on whey proteins has been extensively studied. Understanding the mechanisms involved during each stage of denaturation and aggregation of whey proteins is critical to devising ways of improving their stability. These aspects are reviewed in this paper. Also covered are approaches to preventing or reducing heat‐induced aggregation of whey proteins. Inhibition of aggregate formation has considerable potential for alleviating the problems that arise from the instability of whey proteins.
Is primary spontaneous pneumomediastinum a truly benign entity?
Authors: Lee Sang Cjeol , Lee Deok Heon , Kim Gun‐Jik
Published: October 2014

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the benignancy of primary spontaneous pneumomediastinum (PSP), and to establish an appropriate management strategy.

Methods

Patients diagnosed with PSP between January 2003 and December 2013 were analysed retrospectively. From January 2013 onwards, a simplified protocol, with consensus for the management of PSP, was applied in our hospital.

Results

In total, 37 patients were identified as having PSP during the study period. Among them, 27 were enrolled prior to applying the new protocol. Among these patients, extra diagnostic tests, in addition to chest radiography (CXR) and chest computed tomography (CT), were performed in 15 patients (55.5%). In the pre‐protocol decade, a total of 15 patients (55.5%) were initially fasted and 16 (59.3%) were administered antibiotics. Mean hospital stay was 2.9 days (range, 0–5 days). No patient developed complications during the hospital stay and outpatient follow up. Since the revised protocol was in practical use, 10 consecutive patients with PSP were enrolled and reviewed. No additional diagnostic imaging studies or procedures (except for CXR and chest CT) were performed in these patients; furthermore, diet was not restricted and prophylactic antibiotics were not prescribed. Mean hospital stay was 14.5 h (range, 1–34 h). No complications were observed in any of the patients.

Conclusions

Our management protocol (i.e. routine check of chest CT without any additional diagnostic tests, no special treatment, and early discharge with short‐term follow up) may be safe and feasible for the treatment of PSP.
Systemic matrix metalloproteinase‐8 and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases‐1 levels in severe sepsis‐associated coagulopathy
Authors: SIVULA M. , HÄSTBACKA J. , KUITUNEN A. , LASSILA R. , TERVAHARTIALA T. , SORSA T. , PETTILÄ V.
Published: October 2014

Background

Matrix metalloproteinase‐8 (MMP‐8) and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases‐1 (TIMP‐1) have recently been suggested to be involved in coagulation process. Our objectives were to observe systemic MMP‐8 and TIMP‐1 levels in patients with severe sepsis with or without disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) and to study their relationship with coagulation markers over time.

Methods

Our prospective pilot study included 22 patients with severe sepsis, nine (41%) of whom had overt DIC. We analysed MMP‐8 and TIMP‐1 serum concentrations by time‐resolved immunofluorometric and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assays, respectively, on days 1, 2, 4 and 7 after the intensive care unit admission. Traditional coagulation tests were taken at the same time points. The results were compared between patients with and without DIC. Blood samples from 10 healthy volunteers were used to demonstrate normal levels.

Results

Both patient groups had elevated levels of MMP‐8 and TIMP‐1 as compared with healthy controls. TIMP‐1 concentration was almost twofold in DIC patients compared with those without DIC on the first 2 days. MMP‐8 was elevated only on day 2. TIMP‐1 correlated positively with the severity of coagulation disturbance and with disease severity scores. MMP‐8 correlated negatively only with platelet count.

Conclusion

In this first human study, we could show that TIMP‐1 is elevated in the early phase of sepsis‐induced overt DIC, and it correlates both with degree of coagulopathy and disease severity. These findings suggest that TIMP‐1 may play a role in the pathogenesis of DIC in septic patients.
Does small‐dose fentanyl improve perioperative outcomes in the ambulatory setting? A randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled study
Authors: WHITE P. F. , ELVIR‐LAZO O. L. , ZAENTZ A. S. , KARIGER R. , YUMUL R. , KHANY M. M. , STERN A. , VUONG M. , WENDER R. H.
Published: October 2014

Background

Despite its widespread use, the beneficial effect of low‐dose fentanyl administered at induction of anesthesia on perioperative outcomes has not been studied in the ambulatory setting. Therefore, this study was designed to test the hypothesis that administration of small‐dose fentanyl vs. saline during induction reduces coughing and movements without adversely affecting recovery after day‐surgery.

Methods

One hundred consenting outpatients scheduled to undergo superficial surgical procedures under general anesthesia with a laryngeal mask airway (LMA) device for airway management were randomly assigned to one of two treatment groups: control (n = 50) or fentanyl (n = 50). After administration of 2 ml of the unlabelled study medication containing either fentanyl (100 μg) or saline, anesthesia was induced with lidocaine 30–50 mg and propofol 2 mg/kg IV followed by the insertion of an LMA device. General anesthesia was maintained using a propofol infusion, 75 μg/kg/min, and desflurane (2–5% end‐tidal) in 100% oxygen.

Results

Coughing was observed in six (12%) and ten (20%) in the fentanyl and control group, respectively (P = 0.41). The incidence of movements during surgery was lower in the fentanyl group (18% vs. 31%, P < 0001). There were no significant differences in early and late recovery times or pain scores between the two groups.

Conclusion

Administration of a small‐dose of fentanyl at induction of anesthesia significantly reduced purposeful movements during day‐surgery under propofol‐desflurane anesthesia. No significant difference was found in coughing or recovery times.
Occurrence and impact of xerostomia among dentate adult New Zealanders: findings from a national survey
Authors: Benn AML , Broadbent JM , Thomson WM
Published: October 2014

Background

We investigated the prevalence, associations and impact of xerostomia in a nationally representative sample of dentate adult community‐dwelling New Zealanders aged 18 years and over.

Methods

The data were collected from a representative sample of 2209 adults, as part of the 2009 New Zealand Oral Health Survey (NZOHS). Data were collected using face‐to‐face interviews, dental examinations and the short‐form Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP‐14). Data analysis used appropriate weighting for all procedures to account for the complex survey design.

Results

The overall prevalence estimate for xerostomia was 13.1% (95% CI 11.7, 14.7), and it was more common among females. Those in the 75+  and 25–34 age groups were more likely (odds ratios of 6.5 and 4.0, respectively) to have xerostomia. After controlling for sociodemographic characteristics and clinical oral disease, the mean OHIP‐14 score among xerostomics was 50% higher than among those who did not have the condition.

Conclusions

These data indicate that xerostomia is a common condition which can affect quality of life among people of all ages.
Effect of QMix irrigant on the microhardness of root canal dentine
Authors: Kara Tuncer A , Tuncer S , Siso SH
Published: October 2014

Background

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of QMix, EDTA + CHX, EDTA + NaOCl and maleic acid on the microhardness of root canal dentine.

Methods

Forty recently extracted human maxillary canine teeth were longitudinally sectioned into 80 segments and then embedded in an autopolymerizing acrylic resin. The microhardness of the dentine in the specimen was measured with a Vickers diamond indenter at the coronal, middle and apical thirds of the roots. Finally, the specimens were divided randomly into four groups: 17% EDTA + 2.5% NaOCl; 17% EDTA + 2% CHX; QMix; and 7% maleic acid. Post‐treatment microhardness values were obtained and the decrease in microhardness was calculated as a percentage. Microhardness values were statistically analysed using the Kruskal–Wallis and Mann–Whitney U tests.

Results

Maleic acid significantly decreased microhardness in all regions, compared to the other groups. In the coronal and middle regions, there was no significant difference among the other groups. In the apical region, there was no significant difference between QMix and 17% EDTA + 2% CHX but these groups presented significant dentine microhardness reduction compared to the 17% EDTA + 2.5% NaOCl group.

Conclusions

While maleic acid showed the greatest reduction in dentine microhardness, it was found that QMix, 17% EDTA + 2% CHX and 17% EDTA + 2.5% NaOCl cause the same reduction in the microhardness of root canal dentine in the coronal and middle regions.
The response of patients with bile acid diarrhoea to the farnesoid X receptor agonist obeticholic acid
Authors: Walters J. R. F. , Johnston I. M. , Nolan J. D. , Vassie C. , Pruzanski M. E. , Shapiro D. A.
Published: October 2014

Background

Bile acid diarrhoea is a common cause of chronic diarrhoea, occurring as a primary condition or secondary to ileal disease or resection. Many patients have reduced levels of the ileal hormone fibroblast growth factor 19 (FGF19), an inhibitory regulator of hepatic bile acid synthesis, secreted in response to farnesoid X receptor (FXR) activation.

Aim

To investigate whether obeticholic acid, a potent FXR agonist, could increase FGF19 in patients with bile acid diarrhoea, and produce clinical benefits.

Methods

After a 2 week run‐in when bile acid sequestrants were discontinued, patients with previously diagnosed primary bile acid diarrhoea (n = 10), secondary bile acid diarrhoea (n = 10) or idiopathic chronic diarrhoea (n = 8), received oral obeticholic acid 25 mg daily for 2 weeks. Serum FGF19, total bile acids and 7α‐OH‐4‐cholesten‐3‐one (C4) were measured, symptoms recorded and a diarrhoea index calculated.

Results

In primary bile acid diarrhoea, obeticholic acid increased median fasting FGF19 (133–237 pg/mL, P = 0.007) and significantly reduced fasting C4 and bile acid responses. Improvements occurred in median stool frequency (−24% after 2 weeks treatment, P = 0.03), stool form (−14%, P = 0.05) and diarrhoea index (−34%, P = 0.005). In the secondary bile acid diarrhoea group, significant clinical improvements were found predominantly in patients with shorter ileal resections. Symptoms of abdominal pain and urgency improved. FGF19 and bile acids changed in the control group, without significant clinical improvement. Total and LDL‐cholesterol increased and triglycerides decreased. Obeticholic acid treatment was well tolerated.

Conclusions

This proof‐of‐concept study indicates that obeticholic acid stimulates FGF19, reduces bile acid synthesis and produces clinical benefits in bile acid diarrhoea. FXR agonists have therapeutic potential in chronic diarrhoea. EudraCT 2011‐003777‐28; Clinical Trials: NCT01585025
Impact of source data verification on data quality in clinical trials: an empirical post hoc analysis of three phase 3 randomized clinical trials
Authors: Andersen Jeppe Ragnar , Byrjalsen Inger , Bihlet Asger , Kalakou Faidra , Hoeck Hans Christian , Hansen Gitte , Hansen Henrik Bo , Karsdal Morten Asser , Riis Bente Juel
Published: October 2014

Aim

The aim of this project was to perform an empirical evaluation of the impact of on site source data verification (SDV) on the data quality in a clinical trial database to guide an informed decision on selection of the monitoring approach.

Methods

We used data from three randomized phase III trials monitored with a combination of complete SDV or partial SDV. After database lock, individual subject data were extracted from the clinical database and subjected to post hoc complete SDV. Error rates were calculated with focus on the degree of on study monitoring and relevance and analyzed for potential impact on end points.

Results

Data from a total of 2566 subjects including more than 3 million data fields were 100% source data verified post hoc. An overall error rate of 0.45% was found. No sites had 0% errors. 100% SDV yielded an error rate of 0.27% as compared with partial SDV having an error rate of 0.53% (P < 0.0001). Comparing partly and fully monitored subjects, minor differences were identified between variables of major importance to efficacy or safety.

Conclusions

The findings challenge the notion that a 0% error rate is obtainable with on site monitoring. Data indicate consistently low error rates across the three trials analyzed. The use of complete vs. partial SDV offers a marginal absolute error rate reduction of 0.26%, i.e. a need to perform complete SDV of about 370 data points to avoid one unspecified error and does not support complete SDV as a means of providing meaningful improvements in data accuracy.
The animate–inanimate distinction in preschool children
Authors: Wright Kristyn , Poulin‐Dubois Diane , Kelley Elizabeth
Published: October 2014

This study examined the development of the animate–inanimate (A–I) distinction in relation to other taxonomic categories in early childhood. Four‐ and 5‐year‐old children were administered two tasks measuring knowledge of taxonomic categories at various levels of inclusiveness. Across both matching‐to‐sample and object sorting tasks, the same pattern of categorization development was observed. Mastery of basic‐ and superordinate‐level categories was demonstrated by 4 years of age. Although 5‐year‐old children performed above chance on A–I level categories, their abilities were not as mature as those of adults. Results of this study support and extend previous studies investigating the development of children's understanding of naïve biology during the preschool years.
Addressing Constraints Creatively: How New Design Software Helps Solve the Dilemma of Originality and Feasibility
Authors: Arrighi Pierre‐Antoine , Le Masson Pascal , Weil Benoit
Published: October 2014

Are designers doomed to sacrifice creativity when integrating new product development processes? Although many studies highlight the need to produce original and innovative designs, maintaining creativity in the design process continues to be difficult due to industrial constraints. Thus, creativity is restricted to phases in the ‘fuzzy front end’ to avoid those constraints that might effectively kill it. However, constraints are also acknowledged as a resource for creativity, as has previously been shown with artists and engineers. Thus, we pose the following research question: In which cases can a constraint be a resource for creativity? To answer this question, we investigate different types of computer‐aided design (CAD) software. Relying on an experimental method, we compare the performance of those types of software at the so‐called design gap where design sketches are transformed into digital models. We show that some CAD software enables designers to work under additional constraints, be more creative and avoid the trade‐off between robustness and creativity, and that understanding this performance means appreciating that such software enables designers to play with the embedded constraints to reveal associated fixations and to design models that follow the constraint but overcome the fixation. Constraints and creativity are linked by two competing processes: constraints decrease the degree of freedom and, as a result, creative possibilities, but embedding constraints increases the awareness of fixations and therefore the capacity to design original models. Today, new CAD tools more effectively support the second process, which leads to ‘acquired originality’ in design.
Mutations predisposing to breast cancer in 12 candidate genes in breast cancer patients from Poland
Authors: Cybulski C. , Lubiński J. , Wokołorczyk D. , Kuźniak W. , Kashyap A. , Sopik V. , Huzarski T. , Gronwald J. , Byrski T. , Szwiec M. , Jakubowska A. , Górski B. , Dębniak T. , Narod S.A , Akbari M.R
Published: October 2014

A number of genes other than BRCA1 and BRCA2 have been associated with breast cancer predisposition, and extended genetic testing panels have been proposed. It is of interest to establish the full spectrum of deleterious mutations in women with familial breast cancer.We performed whole‐exome sequencing of 144 women with familial breast cancer and negative for 11 Polish founder mutations in BRCA1, CHEK2 and NBS1, and we evaluated the sequences of 12 known breast cancer susceptibility genes. A truncating mutation in a breast cancer gene was detected in 24 of 144 women (17%) with familial breast cancer. A BRCA2 mutation was detected in 12 cases, a (non‐founder) BRCA1 mutation was detected in 5 cases, a PALB2 mutation was detected in 4 cases and an ATM mutation was detected in 2 cases. Polish women with familial breast cancer who are negative for founder mutations in BRCA1, CHEK2 and NBS1 should be fully screened for mutations in BRCA1, BRCA2 and PALB2. The PALB2 founder mutation c.509_519delGA should be included in the panel of Polish founder mutations.