bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Assessment of small fibers using evoked potentials
Authors: Madsen Caspar Skau , Finnerup Nanna Brix , Baumgärtner Ulf 
Published: December 2013

Abstract

Background and purpose
Conventional neurophysiological techniques do not assess the function of nociceptive pathways and are inadequate to detect abnormalities in patients with small-fiber damage. This overview aims to give an update on the methods and techniques used to assess small fiber (Aδ- and C-fibers) function using evoked potentials in research and clinical settings.

Methods
Noxious radiant or contact heat allows the recording of heat-evoked brain potentials commonly referred to as laser evoked potentials (LEPs) and contact heat-evoked potentials (CHEPs). Both methods reliably assess the loss of Aδ-fiber function by means of reduced amplitude and increased latency of late responses, whereas other methods have been developed to record ultra-late C-fiber-related potentials. Methodological considerations with the use of LEPs and CHEPs include fixed versus variable stimulation site, application pressure, and attentional factors. While the amplitude of LEPs and CHEPs often correlates with the reported intensity of the stimulation, these factors may also be dissociated. It is suggested that the magnitude of the response may be related to the saliency of the noxious stimulus (the ability of the stimulus to stand out from the background) rather than the pain perception.

Results
LEPs and CHEPs are increasingly used as objective laboratory tests to assess the pathways mediating thermal pain, but new methods have recently been developed to evaluate other small-fiber pathways. Pain-related electrically evoked potentials with a low-intensity electrical simulation have been proposed as an alternative method to selectively activate Aδ-nociceptors. A new technique using a flat tip mechanical stimulator has been shown to elicit brain potentials following activation of Type I A mechano-heat (AMH) fibers. These pinprick-evoked potentials (PEP) have a morphology resembling those of heat-evoked potentials following activation of Type II AMH fibers, but with a shorter latency. Cool-evoked potentials can be used for recording the non-nociceptive pathways for cooling. At present, the use of cool-evoked potentials is still in the experimental state. Contact thermodes designed to generate steep heat ramps may be programmed differently to generate cool ramps from a baseline of 35◦C down to 32◦C or 30◦C. Small-fiber evoked potentials are valuable tools for assessment of small-fiber function in sensory neuropathy, central nervous system lesion, and for the diagnosis of neuropathic pain. Recent studies suggest that both CHEPs and pinprick-evoked potentials may also be convenient tools to assess sensitization of the nociceptive system.

Conclusions
In future studies, small-fiber evoked potentials may also be used in studies that aim to understand pain mechanisms including different neuropathic pain phenotypes, such as cold- or touch-evoked allodynia, and to identify predictors of response to pharmacological pain treatment.

Implications
Future studies are needed for some of the newly developed methods.
International journal editors and East Asian authors: two surveys
Authors: CEREJO Clarinda 
Published: December 2013

ABSTRACTCountries in East Asia – specifically China, Japan, and South Korea – are rapidly emerging as major contributors to global research output. However, owing to barriers in language and culture, it is possible that authors from these countries face unique challenges in getting published. Moreover, as submissions from these countries increase, journal editors may be able to spot some trends in the problems encountered when processing these submissions. This study presents the results of two surveys – one involving non‐native English‐speaking authors from East Asia and another involving international journal editors. The surveys were designed to throw light on the challenges East Asian authors face in the publication process and the perceptions journal editors have of submissions from East Asian countries. Here, we present and discuss the survey results, highlight gaps in the perspectives of authors and journal editors, and make recommendations to bridge these gaps.
Do Anterior Cervical Osteophytes Prevent Dynamization of Cervical Dynamic Plates?
Authors: Park Moon Soo , Moon Seong-Hwan , Lee Hwan-Mo , Kim Seok Woo , Kim Tae-Hwan , Min Seul Ki , Suh Bo-Kyung , Riew K. Daniel 
Published: December 2013

Study Design:
A retrospective study.

Objective:
To evaluate radiographic changes of patients with osteophytes at the anterior border of the caudal vertebral body who were treated with anterior cervical discectomy and fusion using dynamic rotational plates.

Summary of Background Data:
Dynamic cervical plates are widely used in surgeries of the anterior cervical spine. One concern in using dynamic plates is that the subjacent anterior osteophytes might act as a bony block and prevent dynamization of the plate. To our knowledge, there are no studies that have investigated the validity of this concern.

Materials and Methods:
Twenty-eight patients were selected for the study out of patients who had undergone 1-level anterior cervical discectomy and fusion using a dynamic rotational plate. They were divided into 2 groups on the basis of the presence of osteophytes located at the anterior border of the subjacent vertebrae. Thirteen patients had osteophytes and 15 control patients did not. The mean follow-up period was 10.8±8.4 months (range, 6–36 mo). Lateral radiographs were taken preoperatively, immediately postoperatively, and at the final follow-ups to assess changes in the following radiographic parameters: Cobb angle of the adjacent segments and fused segment, horizontal distance between C2 and C7 plumb lines, height of the bone graft, vertebral heights of the operated segment, and migration distance of the plate.

Results:
No statistical significance was found in the Cobb angles of the adjacent segments and fused segment, distance between the C2–C7 plumb lines, height of the graft, height of vertebral bodies of the operated segment, and migration distance of the plate through the preoperative, postoperative, and final follow-ups between the 2 groups.

Conclusion:
Osteophytes did not appear to affect the dynamization of plates in any of the measured radiographic parameters.
A conserved oomycete CRN effector targets and modulates tomato TCP14-2 to enhance virulence
Authors: Stam Remco , Motion Graham B. , Boevink Petra C. , Huitema Edgar 
Published: December 2013

AbstractPhytophthoraspp. secrete vast arrays of effector molecules upon infection. A main class of intracellular effectors are the CRNs. They are translocated into the host cell and specifically localise to the nucleus where they are thought to perturb many different cellular processes. Although CRN proteins have been implicated as effectors, direct evidence of CRN mediated perturbation of host processes has been lacking. Here we show that a conserved CRN effector fromP. capsicidirectly binds to tomato transcription factor SlTCP14-2. Previous studies inArabidopsis thalianahave revealed that transcription factor TCP14 may be key immune signalling protein, targeted by effectors from divergent species. We extend on our understanding of TCP targeting by pathogen effectors by showing that theP. capsicieffector CRN12_997 binds to SlTCP14-2 in plants. SlTCP14-2 over-expression enhances immunity toP. capsici, a phenotypic outcome that can be abolished by co-expression of CRN12_997.We show that in the presence of CRN12_997, SlTCP14-2 association with nuclear chromatin is diminished, resulting in altered SlTCP14 subnuclear localisation. These results suggest that CRN12_997 prevents SlTCP14 from positively regulating defence againstP. capsici. Our work demonstrates a direct interaction between an oomycete CRN and a host target required for suppression of immunity. Collectively, our results hint at a virulence strategy that is conserved within the oomycetes and may allow engineering of resistance to a wide range of crop pathogens.
A multi-level ecological model of psychotropic prescribing to adults with intellectual disability
Authors: Edwards Niki , Bain Chris , Mutch Allyson , Dean Julie , Lennox Nicholas 
Published: December 2013

Purpose
– Simple linear accounts of prescribing do not adequately address reasons “why” doctors prescribe psychotropic medication to people with intellectual disability (ID). Greater understanding of the complex array of factors that influence decisions to prescribe is needed.

Design/methodology/approach
– After consideration of a number of conceptual frameworks that have potential to better understand prescribing of psychotropic medication to adults with ID, an ecological model of prescribing was developed. A case study is used to outline how the model can provide greater understanding of prescribing processes.

Findings
– The model presented aims to consider the complexity and multi-dimensional nature of community-based psychotropic prescribing to adults with ID. The utility of the model is illustrated through a consideration of the case study.

Research limitations/implications
– The model presented is conceptual and is as yet untested.

Practical implications
– The model presented aims to capture the complexity and multi-dimensional nature of community-based psychotropic prescribing to adults with ID. The model may provide utility for clinicians and researchers as they seek clarification of prescribing decisions.

Originality/value
– The paper adds valuable insight into factors influencing psychotropic prescribing to adults with ID. The ecological model of prescribing extends traditional analysis that focuses on patient characteristics and introduces multi-level perspectives that may provide utility for clinicians and researchers.
Assessing risks arising from challenging behaviours: a model and a brief review of existing resources
Authors: W. Turton Raistrick 
Published: December 2013

Purpose– Challenging behaviours are defined in part by the risks of harm they present and the support of individuals who challenge would be improved with effective assessments of the risks posed by challenging behaviours. The purpose of this paper is to outline a model of risk assessment and review literature that provides relevant information.Design/methodology/approach– Literature review.Findings– Forensic risk assessment has a well worked-out and validated approach but tools used to assess challenging behaviours are not effective risk predictors. Applied Behaviour Assessment provides methods that can be more effectively used for risk assessment.Practical implications– There is a need to develop valid risk assessment procedures for assessing the risks presented by challenging behaviours.Originality/value– This is a fresh perspective on risk assessment in relation to challenging behaviours.
Optimal promotional strategy for intra-category cross-selling
Authors: Tang Ying-Chan , Wang Yu-Mei , Huang Jiun-Yan 
Published: December 2013

Purpose
– The aim of this paper is to investigate an optimal promotional strategy of intra-category cross-selling on culinary products for the fiercely competitive, fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) industry.

Design/methodology/approach
– A linear regression model and a Markov switching autoregressive model is used, that incorporates a retailing demand process to capture a nonlinear structure among promotional budget allocation, and evaluate promotional performance, and optimal promotional frequency within a given time span. Three product categories are applied with 39 months of time-series data from a multinational packaged food company in Taiwan.

Findings
– The result shows that most previous decisions on promotional budget allocation are non-optimal – most promotional investments were either extended too long or allocated too low in stimulating sales.

Research limitations/implications
– This study suggests implications for the brand or category manager in removing such non-optimal promotional policies.

Originality/value
– Previous promotional investment is evaluated by comparing the changes in promotional budget allocation. Markov's switching feedback rules are then applied to determine the proper length of equilibrium state with and/or without promotion. Finally, effective decision rules on magnitude, duration, and frequency of intra-category promotional strategy are induced.
Toward a learner-centered system for adult learning
Authors: Hermans Henry , Kalz Marco , Koper Rob 
Published: December 2013

Purpose
– The purpose of this paper is to present an e-learning system that integrates the use of concepts of virtual learning environments, personal learning environments, and social network sites. The system is based on a learning model which comprises and integrates three learning contexts for the adult learner: the formal, instructional context, the personal context for learning management, and the social peer context. The paper outlines how the Open University of the Netherlands (OUN) implemented this model in the OpenU system and has piloted this system within the field of a MSc Program in the learning sciences.

Design/methodology/approach
– The paper describes the design and development of an integrated e-learning system following an ADDIE-based strategy and shows how the resulting system has been piloted.

Findings
– The result of the design and development process is an integrated e-learning system that was piloted with the OUN.

Research limitations/implications
– The limitations of the paper are that the paper reports only on the learner perspective. The paper does not report on the implication for faculty and staff. Additionally, a key question that needs further research is how the integrated approach will affect learner dropout rates.

Originality/value
– The value of the paper is that it provides an integrated e-learning approach, bringing together the personal, formal as well as informal context into one system.
Competence, performance and trainability of older workers of higher educational institutions in Malaysia
Authors: Hashim Junaidah , Wok Saodah 
Published: December 2013

Purpose
– The purpose of this paper is to investigate the competence, performance, and trainability of older workers of higher educational institutions in Malaysia.

Design/methodology/approach
– Survey methods were used in this study. The survey measures were adopted from Rothwell (2002) and Sarmiento et al. (2007) for performance and competence, respectively, while trainability measurements were adopted from Maurer et al. (2008). The sample of 325 respondents consisted older workers in the higher education sector aged between 55 and 60 years old.

Findings
– Based on the assessments made by the older workers themselves and their superiors, it is found that the older workers are competent, performing well, and are trainable. The administrative older staff, however, were rated lower by the superior as compared to the academic older staff. This may be due to the fact that most of the assessors are academicians. Regardless of the category of the staff, performance of older workers is positively related to their competence and trainability.

Research limitations/implications
– Competence and trainability are important factors as they are found related to performance. This study focuses on education sector. It would be interesting to include older workers from other sectors because the education sector is perceived to be less physically demanding.

Practical implications
– This study provides valuable insights into considering of revising the retirement age of academician in higher education sector even higher. Age seems to be an advantage to this group of employees.

Originality/value
– This study is unique and significant because it focuses on important sector, i.e. higher education. It would reduce the knowledge gap in performance management of older workers especially in higher education sector.
Managing diversity through flexible work arrangements: management perspectives
Authors: Michielsens Elisabeth , Bingham Cecilie , Clarke Linda 
Published: December 2013

Purpose– The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the role flexible work arrangements (FWA) play in diversity policies, and the reasons for/barriers to their implementation.Design/methodology/approach– Based on qualitative case study research in four large multinational service companies. Primary data were collected through senior and line-manager interviews and questionnaires.Findings– The research shows FWA are an integral part of diversity implementation but organisational imperatives, particularly management concerns about client interaction, constrain the acceptance of FWA and therefore restrict their impact as a means to greater diversity. As FWA have different effects (being available “remotely” vs not being available) their acceptability is not inclusive, but dependent on job character and level.Research limitations/implications– Further research is needed on the difficulties of implementing FWA and, particularly, its impact on career progression. The prioritisation of business imperatives over social arguments, such as client needs and staff availability, with its impact on the acceptability of FWA and hence ultimate enhancement of diversity deserves more attention.Practical implications– This paper shows that company discourse with its unambiguous business focus highlights the shortcomings of relying upon FWA to bring about a changed climate for diversity.Originality/value– Importantly issues are explored which have not featured significantly in the literature to date, especially the role of clients/customers and differences in the effect of FWA as elements in managerial perspectives on the acceptability of FWA, which can act as constraints to its use for diversity enhancement.
Standing on the shoulders of strategic management giants to advance organizational project management
Authors: Drouin Nathalie , Jugdev Kam 
Published: December 2013

Purpose– The purpose of this paper is to examine relevant issues within the strategic management domain related to concepts and terms used within the resource-based view and dynamic capabilities (DC) theory. The paper explains how these theories from strategic management can be translated for organizational project management (OPM). The paper also shares lessons learned by the co-authors as used in project management.Design/methodology/approach– Based on a literature review and research experience of co-authors, the paper bridges two theories from the strategic management field to OPM and demonstrates conceptual challenges experienced.Findings– From a translational perspective, the paper outlines how theories from strategic management can be adopted to OPM. Since OPM is evolving, there is merit in drawing from a solid theoretical foundation such as those found in strategic management.Research limitations/implications– This paper is conceptual and makes a case for further empirical research using strategic management literature. Only recently has research in project management raised the important topic of translating knowledge from more established fields (the giants) to project management research.Practical implications– Strategic management theories offer insights that can be leveraged to make OPM environments more effective through improved research foundations.Originality/value– By critically exploring and assessing the resource-based view and DC bodies of literature, this paper's value rests in applying learnings from these fields to OPM and to develop a clearer understanding of concepts and emphasize their importance.
Organization development throughad hocproblem solving
Authors: Rezania Davar , Ouedraogo Noufou 
Published: December 2013

Purpose– The purpose of this research is to study thead hocproblem of developing capabilities for knowledge transfer between various constituencies of an enterprise resource planning (ERP) implementation project. The paper studies how an ERP project develops ability to network, link, and integrate its various knowledge resources over time.Design/methodology/approach– The paper conducted a case study of an ERP project, from its initiation in 2008 to its completion in 2011.Findings– The case demonstrates the dynamics of development of knowledge transfer capacities throughad hocproblem solving. The paper identifies five mechanisms used in this case for the development of knowledge transfer capacities.Practical implications–Ad hocproblem solving mechanisms demonstrated in this paper can be intentionally planned and utilized in similar projects to enable interaction, integration, and institutionalization.Originality/value– Even thoughad hocproblem solving as a model for change is prevalent in many organizations, studies ofad hocproblem solving capabilities as a mechanism for change are not extensive. This case describesad hocmechanisms that foster change and development of knowledge transfer capacities during large IT project implementations.
Integrating service practice into project management: a matter of “do or die”?
Authors: Allan Burström Thommie , Jacobsson Mattias , L. Wilson Timothy 
Published: December 2013

Purpose
– The purpose of this paper is to describe and analyze service management practices within a project management context.

Design/methodology/approach
– This research supporting conceptual developments was both exploratory and qualitative in nature and utilized an in-depth case study of a major product development project.

Findings
– The conceptual framework developed is applied to empirical observations of product development project. Because there is an adequate fit with observations, elements of a service management approach appear to be viable in the description, managing, and control of projects.

Research limitations/implications
– Because the research was built on a case study, one has the limitations common with that approach. Conversely, case studies are acknowledged as useful in the identification of important variables in situations in which there is little control over events in a real-world context.

Practical implications
– Customer satisfaction is a requirement of project organizations, which is an inherent requisite of any service organization. Consequently, one turns to those elements in the practice of service management that lead to best management practices.

Originality/value
– This paper contributes with a practice-based understanding of how project management is based on integrated service practice.
Ontological realism, concepts and classification in molecular biology
Authors: Mayor Charlie , Robinson Lyn 
Published: December 2013

Purpose
– The purpose of this article is to evaluate the development and use of the gene ontology (GO), a scientific vocabulary widely used in molecular biology databases, with particular reference to the relation between the theoretical basis of the GO, and the pragmatics of its application.

Design/methodology/approach
– The study uses a combination of bibliometric analysis, content analysis and discourse analysis. These analyses focus on details of the ways in which the terms of the ontology are amended and deleted, and in which they are applied by users.

Findings
– Although the GO is explicitly based on an objective realist epistemology, a considerable extent of subjectivity and social factors are evident in its development and use. It is concluded that bio-ontologies could beneficially be extended to be pluralist, while remaining objective, taking a view of concepts closer to that of more traditional controlled vocabularies.

Originality/value
– This is one of very few studies which evaluate the development of a formal ontology in relation to its conceptual foundations, and the first to consider the GO in this way.