bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dealing with defaulting suppliers using behavioral based governance methods: an agency theory perspective
Authors: Prosman Ernst-Jan , Scholten Kirstin , Power Damien
Published: June 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore factors influencing the effectiveness of buyer initiated behavioral-based governance methods (BBGMs). The ability of BBGMs to improve supplier performance is assessed considering power imbalances and the resource intensiveness of the BBGM. Agency Theory is used as an interpretive lens.

Design/methodology/approach

An explorative multiple case study approach is used to collect qualitative and quantitative data from buying companies involved in 13 BBGMs.

Findings

Drawing on Agency Theory several factors are identified which can explain BBGM effectiveness considering power differences and the resource intensiveness of the BBGM. The data show that even high resource intensive BBGMs can be implemented effectively if there are benefits for a powerful supplier. Cultural influences and uncertainty of the business environment also play a role.

Originality/value

This study develops a series of propositions indicating that Agency Theory can provide valuable guidance on how to better understand the effectiveness of BBGMs. Underlying mechanisms are identified that explain how power imbalance does not necessarily make improvement initiatives unsuccessful.
The impact of ambidexterity on supply chain flexibility fit
Authors: Rojo Araceli , Llorens-Montes Javier , Perez-Arostegui Maria Nieves
Published: June 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyze whether supply chain (SC) ambidexterity improves supply chain flexibility (SCF) and its impact on SC competence and firm performance. A new measurement instrument for SCF is proposed that takes into account the demands of the environment: SCF fit.

Design/methodology/approach

A theoretical model is developed to examine the relationships proposed. The hypotheses are tested with data from 302 manufacturing firms using a structural equations model methodology.

Findings

The results show that SC ambidexterity helps to achieve the optimal level of SCF and that supply chain management (SCM) is important to firm performance.

Research limitations/implications

This paper makes three contributions to the SCM literature: first, it develops the conceptual definition of SC ambidexterity and studies its effects at the SC level; second, it develops a new instrument to measure SCF known as SCF fit; third, it studies both the impact of SCF fit on SC competence and the importance of SC in firm performance.

Practical implications

This paper develops a measurement instrument that permits managers to diagnose the level of SCF and the correspondence/gap between current and optimal levels and to establish comparisons between different SC. It also indicates the importance of SCM for firm performance and the need to consider the SC as a whole.

Originality/value

This is one of the first studies to analyze ambidexterity in an organizational network like the SC. It shows that exploitation practices do not jeopardize SCF as long as they are accompanied by exploration practices. That is, high levels of exploration and exploitation are compatible in the SC and lead to the optimal level of SCF.
Quality investing and the cross-section of country returns
Authors: Zaremba Adam
Published: June 2016

Purpose

The main purpose of this study is to examine the role of quality as a determinant of a cross-sectional variation in country-level stock returns. The study attempts to address the question: Is there any special premium for top-quality stock markets with decent profitability, indebtedness and liquidity ratios?

Design/methodology/approach

The computations are based on the listings of 66 country portfolios over the period between 2000 and 2013. Long/short country portfolios from sorts on characteristics related to quality are examined with asset-pricing models.

Findings

The inter-market variation in returns may be explained with profitability and debt ratios: the more profitable and the less indebted is the stock market, the better is its performance. Moreover, the performance of country-level value, size and momentum strategies may be improved by double sorting on quality characteristics.

Practical implications

The practical implications include such issues as the global asset allocation, the development of investment products, asset pricing and investment performance measurement. The country selection strategies that are based on leverage and profitability prove to be a useful tool for investors with a global investment mandate. Furthermore, additional sorting on quality metrics may markedly improve the performance of inter-market value, size and momentum strategies.

Originality/value

This paper examines the role of quality metrics related to financial leverage, profitability and liquidity in explaining the cross-sectional variation in country returns.
Foreign currency exposure within country exchange traded funds
Authors: Williams Owen
Published: June 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to consider the implicit effect of the underlying foreign currency exposure on the performance characteristics of country exchange traded funds.

Design/methodology/approach

To arrive at an overall estimation of the exchange-traded fund (ETF)’s tracking error, the mean of the three measures of tracking error was calculated for both the hedged (r_LC) and unhedged (r_NAV) return series. Since tracking error does not capture all the risk inherent in a country index fund, the study extends the analysis using the Sortino and Modified Sharpe ratios.

Findings

The decision to hedge currency risk should not be taken on the sole basis of historical volatilities. The investor must also factor in transactions costs, the possible roll of futures contracts and prevailing interest rate differentials. If the rate on the foreign currency is greater than the dollar (euro) rate, the investor will pay for the hedge. If the rate on the foreign currency is less than the dollar (euro) rate, the investor will gain on the trade. Given that hedging entails additional costs, in cases where the neutralization of currency volatility only reduces risk modestly, it would be advisable to leave the exchange rate risk unhedged. We propose two metrics for ETF investors deciding whether to hedge a country ETF’s underlying currency risk.

Originality/value

The results highlight a key finding: while the majority of country funds accurately track the performance of the underlying foreign index when measured in the local currency, returns in the fund currency can be much more volatile. In breaking down the sources of country fund volatility, the paper demonstrates the impact of the underlying currency movements on overall fund risk. In cases where the currency impact has a significant impact on fund tracking errors, an index-oriented investor benefits from neutralizing the exchange rate effect. Additionally, as the Sortino and Modified Sharpe measures suggest that the underlying currency exposure offers in most cases a better risk-adjusted return for country exchange-traded funds (ETFs) in the listing currency, we also calculate the risk minimizing foreign currency exposure for each fund and propose a decision rule based on the net currency variance to decide whether to hedge the ETF’s currency risk. The optimal hedge ratio indicates that US-based investors should only partially hedge the underlying currency risk while European-based investors are better off fully hedging currency risk.
Analysis and management of risks associated with outsourcing in China
Authors: El Fadil Jalal , St-Pierre Josée
Published: June 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyse the risks associated with outsourcing production to emerging countries with lower labour costs, namely China, and study actions and plans used to reduce the influence of factors/drivers that induce these risks.

Design/methodology/approach

This research uses a multiple case-study methodology, involving seven Canadian manufacturing firms that have chosen an outsourcing strategy in China. It is based on a particular approach of classifying factors/drivers that may generate risks related to this strategy and on interviews with two managers per firm to reduce personal bias.

Findings

In each of the seven cases studied, outsourcing was chosen to take advantage of lower labour costs in China, but in reality, costs were higher than expected due to unforeseen factors inherent to the risks involved. This study reveals that risks generated by factors/drivers such as lack of experience, reduced control over foreign operations and cultural differences are of major concern for managers outsourcing part of their production to China. However, according to some executives that were interviewed, certain actions can be taken by firms to overcome the negative influence of these factors/drivers. Furthermore, some risks may have multiple causes or be induced by other risks.

Research limitations/implications

The sample of this study was composed of firms from different industrial sectors, and the authors were therefore unable to analyse sector-specific risks. As the industrial sector has an impact on the technical complexity of the products and their components, it would be appropriate to reconduct our research using samples drawn from similar sectors.

Practical implications

These findings can help guide the decisions of managers wishing to outsource some of their activities to China and other emerging countries. They will contribute to the success of outsourcing strategies to these countries, as they reveal the risks associated with these strategies and the ways to deal with factors/drivers that can induce them. For example, building long-term relationships with Chinese partners based on collaboration, trust and mutual benefit as well as conducting a rigorous prospecting phase and taking time to select the right subcontractor can have a major impact on reducing risks.

Originality/value

The main contribution of this work is the analysis of risks associated with outsourcing to China, based on a categorisation of factors/drivers that can generate these risks, and the study of how firms manage these factors/drivers and control their negative effects. The nature of the practices and actions used to manage important risks depends on the characteristics of the companies, their size, resources and the products they outsource.
Testosterone levels are positively correlated with cloacal bacterial diversity and the relative abundance of Chlamydiae in breeding male rufous‐collared sparrows
Authors: Escallón Camilo , Becker Matthew H. , Walke Jenifer B. , Jensen Roderick V. , Cormier Guy , Belden Lisa K. , Moore Ignacio T.
Published: June 2016

Testosterone mediates several key aspects of male reproduction, but maintaining high testosterone levels can reduce long‐term survival. One of the proposed pathways by which testosterone can influence survival is through increased risk of parasite infection. The hormone has the potential to affect the transmission of sexually transmitted infections by promoting behaviours that increase sexual contact rates and/or by decreasing immune function.

We hypothesized that males with high concentrations of testosterone would increase their chances of being infected with sexually transmitted bacteria, which would manifest as increased diversity of cloacal bacteria. To test this hypothesis, we measured circulating testosterone concentrations in breeding male rufous‐collared sparrows (Zonotrichia capensis) and collected cloacal swabs to quantify bacterial diversity using 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing.

There was a positive correlation between testosterone concentrations and the phylogenetic diversity of cloacal bacteria. In addition, individuals with high and medium testosterone concentrations had cloacal bacterial communities that were more similar to each other than to those of low testosterone individuals. Finally, when considering bacterial taxa that are potential avian pathogens, we found that the relative abundance of Chlamydiae, a class of obligate intracellular parasites, was positively correlated with testosterone concentrations.

Two non‐exclusive explanations for these results are that testosterone affects behaviours that lead to increased sexual contacts and thus the exposure and acquisition of additional phylogenetically diverse bacteria, and/or that testosterone is altering the immune system or the cloacal environment, thus making it easier for bacteria to colonize. Either way, these data suggest that increased exposure to sexually transmitted pathogens in the form of cloacal bacteria could be a cost of maintaining high testosterone levels.

A Lay Summary is available for this article.
Analysis of high‐resolution X‐ray computed tomography images of Bentheim sandstone under elevated confining pressures
Authors: Saenger Erik H. , Lebedev Maxim , Uribe David , Osorno Maria , Vialle Stephanie , Duda Mandy , Iglauer Stefan , Steeb Holger
Published: June 2016

A sample of Bentheim sandstone was characterized using high‐resolution three‐dimensional X‐ray microscopy at two different confining pressures of 1 MPa and 20 MPa. The two recordings can be directly compared with each other because the same sample volume was imaged in either case. After image processing, a porosity reduction from 21.92% to 21.76% can be deduced from the segmented data. With voxel‐based numerical simulation techniques, we determined apparent hydraulic transport properties and effective elastic properties. These results were compared with laboratory measurements using reference samples. Laboratory and computed volumes, as well as hydraulic transport properties, agree fairly well. To achieve a reasonable agreement for the effective elastic properties, we define pressure‐dependent grain contact zones in addition to mineral phases in the digital rock images. From that, we derive a specific digital rock physics template resulting in a very good agreement between laboratory data and simulations. The digital rock physics template aims to contribute to a more standardized approach of X‐ray computed tomography data analysis as a tool to determine and predict elastic rock properties.
Motor‐based treatment with and without ultrasound feedback for residual speech‐sound errors
Authors: Preston Jonathan L. , Leece Megan C. , Maas Edwin
Published: June 2016

Background

There is a need to develop effective interventions and to compare the efficacy of different interventions for children with residual speech‐sound errors (RSSEs). Rhotics (the r‐family of sounds) are frequently in error American English‐speaking children with RSSEs and are commonly targeted in treatment. One treatment approach involves the use of ultrasound visual feedback of the tongue.

Aims

Although prior studies have shown that children with RSSEs acquire rhotics and generalize to untrained words with ultrasound visual feedback treatment, predictions from schema‐based motor learning theory suggest that visual feedback might impede generalization. Therefore, the primary aim was to compare the generalization of rhotics treated with and without ultrasound in children with RSSEs.

Methods & Procedures

Twelve children aged 10–16 years with RSSEs affecting rhotics participated in a multiple‐baseline single‐case design with two treatment phases. For each participant, rhotics in one syllable position were treated for 7 h‐long sessions with ultrasound visual feedback and rhotics in a different syllable position were treated without ultrasound in a second treatment phase. The order of treatment conditions was counterbalanced across participants. A treatment framework incorporating the principles of motor learning through chaining procedures was implemented across both treatment phases; thus the primary distinction between conditions was the use of ultrasound visual feedback.

Outcomes & Results

On average, both treatments resulted in an approximately 30% increase in accuracy of untreated words in seven sessions. However, variability in response suggested some children showed a preferential response to one treatment over another, some responded well to both interventions, and some responded minimally to both interventions.

Conclusions & Implications

Motor‐based treatment with and without ultrasound visual feedback of the tongue may aid in speech‐sound acquisition for children with RSSEs. Both approaches may be viable options for some children. Future research is necessary to determine which children are the best candidates for interventions with and without ultrasound visual feedback.
Team‐specific Human Capital and Performance
Authors: Gerrard Bill , Lockett Andy
Published: June 2016

In this paper we explore the effects of team‐specific human capital (TSHC) on performance. We do so by delineating between two dimensions of TSHC, relating to team members and the team manager, and then exploring how the two dimensions may interact in shaping performance. Employing a 10‐year panel of football teams from the English Premier League we find that team members’ TSHC has a positive and significant effect on team performance, which is positively moderated by managers’ TSHC. Our results attest to the importance of considering both the team member and team manager dimensions of TSHC, and how the performance effects of team members’ TSHC are shaped by managers’ TSHC. Our results stand in stark contrast to the dramatic reduction in managerial tenure that has characterized the English Premier League in recent years.
A Crisis of Confidence? Parliament and the Demand for Hospital Reform in Early‐15th‐ and Early‐16th‐Century England
Authors: Rawcliffe Carole
Published: June 2016

This article examines attempts made by the Commons in the parliaments of April 1414 and 1512 to address the corruption, neglect and poor administrative standards deemed endemic in the nation's hospitals and almshouses, and to remedy a perceived lack of facilities for the care of sick paupers. Despite early (but short‐lived) support from the crown, the first initiative failed, partly because of its association with heretical demands for the disestablishment of the English Church. Although the underlying reasons for institutional decline were often more complex than the reformers cared to suggest, their campaign did inspire a number of hospitals and their patrons to rectify abuses. At the same time, individuals and organisations throughout society invested in new foundations, generally under lay management, for the residential accommodation of the elderly and reputable poor. These measures sufficed until the arrival of endemic pox, along with mounting concerns about vagrancy and disorder, prompted another parliamentary petition for the investigation and reform of charitable institutions. Notable for its emphasis upon the sanitary imperative for removing diseased beggars from the streets, and thus eliminating infection, the bill of 1512 also attacked the proliferation of fraudulent indulgences, which raised money under false pretences for houses that were hospitals in name only. This undertaking also failed, almost certainly because the lords spiritual had, again, drawn the line at the prospect of lay intervention in overwhelmingly ecclesiastical foundations. Both bills are reproduced in full in an appendix, that of 1512 appearing in print for the first time.
The Militia Ordinance of 1642 and the 14th‐Century Great Statute of Praemunire
Authors: Spehar Warren E.
Published: June 2016

This article opens with a review of the important scholarship concerning the conflict over prerogative between the crown and parliament from mid 1641 through the winter of 1642. The resulting impasse was over which of these institutions would control the militia. This article argues that the Militia Ordinance committee was committed to ‘the legal process’ in developing its directive of March 1642. The balance of the study reviews the medieval Statute of Praemunire, its subsequent development, and how that law would have provided an essential basis for the parliament to assume control of the militia. The article concludes that the Long Parliament acted legally with the Great Statute of Praemunire as a reference point for the adoption of the Militia Ordinance. This conclusion rests on five evidentiary considerations: (i) surviving texts of Commons’ private diarists; (ii) the probable role of John Selden in the Militia Ordinance committee deliberations; (iii) the September 1642 publication of John Marsh's An Argument Or, Debate In Law of the Great Question Concerning the Militias; (iv) proposition five of the Nineteen Propositions; and (v) language parallels between the 1393 Great Statute and the Militia Ordinance itself.
Qualified Toleration: Bermuda and the English Revolution
Authors: Schnepper Rachel N.
Published: June 2016

Central to both the causes and development of the English revolution was the demand for reformation of the Church of England. The question of what shape this reform should take, however, divided English men and women. Debates over the further reformation of the Church of England were also complicated by the emergence of increasingly vocal and powerfully‐placed calls for freedom of religion, ranging from a limited toleration for a certain few to a broader liberty of conscience for all. This article looks at the debate surrounding liberty of conscience during the English revolution in 1644–5, but from a fresh angle: examining the context and rationale for the parliamentary ordered religious settlement of the English Atlantic colony of Bermuda in October of 1645. Integrating the fortunes of this Atlantic colony into the history of the English revolution reconfigures our understanding and analysis of revolutionary religion and politics.
Influence of Hydrocolloids (Dietary Fibers) on Lipid Digestion of Protein‐Stabilized Emulsions: Comparison of Neutral, Anionic, and Cationic Polysaccharides
Authors: Qin Dingkui , Yang Xiaojun , Gao Songran , Yao Junhu , McClements David Julian
Published: June 2016

The impact of dietary fibers on lipid digestion within the gastrointestinal tract depends on their molecular and physicochemical properties. In this study, the influence of the electrical characteristics of dietary fibers on their ability to interfere with the digestion of protein‐coated lipid droplets was investigated using an in vitro small intestine model. Three dietary fibers were examined: cationic chitosan; anionic alginate; neutral locust bean gum (LBG). The particle size, ζ‐potential, microstructure, and apparent viscosity of β‐lactoglobulin stabilized oil‐in‐water emulsions containing different types and levels of dietary fiber were measured before and after lipid digestion. The rate and extent of lipid digestion depended on polysaccharide type and concentration. At relatively low dietary fiber levels (0.1 to 0.2 wt%), the initial lipid digestion rate was only reduced by chitosan, but the final extent of lipid digestion was unaffected by all 3 dietary fibers. At relatively high dietary fiber levels (0.4 wt%), alginate and chitosan significantly inhibited lipid hydrolysis, whereas LBG did not. The impact of chitosan on lipid digestion was attributed to its ability to promote fat droplet aggregation through bridging flocculation, thereby retarding access of the lipase to the droplet surfaces. The influence of alginate was mainly ascribed to its ability to sequester calcium ions and promote depletion flocculation.
Effects of Ultrasound Assistance on Dehydration Processes and Bioactive Component Retention of Osmo‐Dried Sour Cherries
Authors: Siucińska Karolina , Mieszczakowska‐Frąc Monika , Połubok Aleksandra , Konopacka Dorota
Published: June 2016

Despite having numerous health benefits, dried sour cherries have proven to be more acceptable to consumers when infused with sugar or other sweeteners to enhance their flavor, which, in turn, leads to serious anthocyanin losses. For this reason, a consideration was made for the application of ultrasound to accelerate solid gain and shorten drying time, thus favoring bioactive component retention. To determine the usefulness of ultrasound as a tool for sour cherry osmotic infusion enhancement, the effect of sonication time on dehydration effectiveness, as well as the stability of bioactive components during osmotic treatment and consecutive convective drying, was investigated. Fruits were osmo‐dehydrated using a 60% sucrose solution for 120 min (40 °C), during which, ultrasound of 25 kHz (0.4 W/cm2), was applied for 0, 30, 60, 90, and 120 min, after which, the fruits were convectively dried. In the range of the applied ultrasound energy no significant effect of sonication on mass transfer intensification was observed; moreover, longer acoustic treatment seemed to retard moisture removal during subsequent convective drying, which can be related to the breakdown of the parenchyma cell walls caused by the prolonged ultrasound (US) action. It was concluded that although US assistance could be considered neutral for bioactive component retention, excessive sonication time can lead to some anthocyanin deterioration. According to high‐performance liquid chromatography analysis, the particular anthocyanin alterations, both during dehydration and final drying, occurred in a similar way. Sonication time prolongation caused approximately 10% more bioactive compound deterioration, than earlier, shorter trials.
Increased use of primary care during 6 years of prodromal schizophrenia
Authors: Nørgaard HCB. , Søndergaard Pedersen H. , Fenger‐Grøn M. , Mors O. , Nordentoft M. , Vestergaard M. , Munk Laursen T.
Published: June 2016

Background

Early diagnosis is important for the course of schizophrenia.

Aim

To investigate whether prodromal symptoms of schizophrenia lead to increased use of primary care.

Method

A register‐based cohort study of 21 894 cases with incident schizophrenia and 437 880 matched controls.

Results

Cases used daytime primary care 43% more than controls during the 6 years before diagnosis (IRR = 1.43; 95% CI: 1.39; 1.48) and 132% more during the last 2 months (IRR = 2.32; 95% CI: 2.27; 2.37), and 34% (IRR = 1.34; 95% CI: 1.23; 1.48) vs. 374% more for out‐of‐hours services (IRR = 3.74; 95% CI: 3.52; 3.98). Six years before index diagnosis, 30% of cases had at least one psychiatric contact without being diagnosed with schizophrenia, increasing to 75% 1 month before diagnosis.

Conclusion

Increased help‐seeking behaviour was seen at least 6 years before index diagnosis, suggesting a ‘window’ for earlier diagnosis of prodromal schizophrenia.
Prepulse inhibition in euthymic bipolar disorder patients in comparison with control subjects
Authors: Sánchez‐Morla E. M. , Mateo J. , Aparicio A. , García‐Jiménez M. Á. , Jiménez E. , Santos J. L.
Published: June 2016

Objective

Deficient prepulse inhibition (PPI) of the startle response, indicating sensorimotor gating deficits, has been reported in schizophrenia and other neuropsychiatric disorders. This study aimed to assess sensorimotor gating deficits in patients with euthymic bipolar. Furthermore, we analysed the relationships between PPI and clinical and cognitive measures.

Method

Prepulse inhibition was measured in 64 patients with euthymic bipolar and in 64 control subjects matched for age, gender, education level and smoking status. Clinical characteristics and level of functioning were assessed in all participants using Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS), Young Mania Rating Scale (YMRS) and Functioning Assessment Short Test (FAST). Cognition was evaluated using the Measurement and Treatment Research to Improve Cognition in Schizophrenia Consensus Cognitive Battery (MCCB) and the Stroop test as an additional measure of executive function.

Results

Compared with controls, patients with bipolar disorder exhibited PPI deficits at 60‐ and 120‐millisecond prepulse–pulse intervals. Among patients with bipolar disorder, PPI was correlated with the social cognition domain of the MCCB. PPI was not significantly correlated with other clinical, functional and neurocognitive variables in either group.

Conclusions

Our data suggest that PPI deficit is a neurobiological marker in euthymic bipolar disorder, which is associated with social cognition but not with other clinical, functional or cognitive measures.
Comparison of DMRT3 genotypes among American Saddlebred horses with reference to gait
Authors: Regatieri I. C. , Eberth J. E. , Sarver F. , Lear T. L. , Bailey E.
Published: June 2016

Horse owners choose whether or not to train American Saddlebred horses (ASHs) to perform the 4‐beat gaits called rack and slow gait. The rack and slow gait are similar to ambling gaits shown to be associated with variation in the DMRT3 gene in other breeds but are trained rather than naturally occurring gaits. A premature stop codon in the DMRT3 gene (DMRT3_Ser301STOP) caused by the Ch23:g.22999655C>A SNP has an effect on the pattern of locomotion in horses and allows for the pacing gait and strong association with performance of ambling gaits in diverse breeds. We used horse show records to identify ASHs trained to perform as 5‐gaited horses and compared them to other Saddlebreds for the prevalence of the A allele of the Ch23:g.22999655C>A SNP of DMRT3. Genomic DNA was typed using a PCR‐RFLP technique for 5‐gaited ASHs (n = 55), 3‐gaited or harness ASHs (n = 64) and ASHs not shown (n = 128). We did not observe differences in the frequencies of the Ch23:g.22999655C>A SNP of DMRT3 when comparing 5‐gaited ASHs to other ASHs (P > 0.22). These results suggest that DMRT3 alleles do not affect the choice of breeders to train and show ASHs as 5‐gaited horses.
Recent estimates of the incidence of hysterectomy in New South Wales and trends over the past 30 years
Authors: Yusuf Farhat , Leeder Stephen , Wilson Andrew
Published: June 2016

Background

Hysterectomy remains one of the frequently used surgical operations on women in Australia despite new therapeutic approaches for most of the common conditions for which hysterectomy is indicated.

Aims

To determine whether the surgical approach to hysterectomy has changed in New South Wales (NSW) over the period 1981 to 2010–2012.

Data and methods

De‐identified individual records for hysterectomy patients during the three‐year period (January 2010 to December 2012) provided by the NSW Ministry of Health were used. Robotic assistance with surgery was not recorded in the hysterectomy data. Analysis largely involved the method of indirect standardisation.

Results

The average annual hysterectomy rate during 2010–2012 was 3.07 per 1000 females per annum; the majority of patients stayed an average of four days in hospital. Total abdominal and vaginal hysterectomies were the two most frequently used procedures. One‐in‐four procedures involved the use of laparoscopes. Principal diagnoses (in descending order) were disorders of menstruation and other abnormal bleeding, genital prolapse, leiomyoma of uterus, malignant neoplasm of genital organs and endometriosis. While declining trends in hysterectomy rates were noted since 1981, an increasing trend in the use of laparoscopy was evident.

Conclusions

The 45% decrease in hysterectomy rates was indeed the most striking finding of our analysis. This is probably due to the development of alternative nonsurgical procedures such as oral hormone suppression of menstruation and the levonorgestrel‐releasing intrauterine system.
Pharmacological lactation suppression with D2 receptor agonists and risk of postpartum psychosis: A systematic review
Authors: Snellen Martien , Power Josephine , Blankley Gaynor , Galbally Megan
Published: June 2016

Background

It has been suggested that D2 receptor agonists commonly used postpartum for the physiological suppression of lactation, such as bromocriptine and cabergoline, may increase the risk of illness onset or relapse in women where there is a predisposition for or history of schizophrenia, bipolar disorder or postpartum psychosis. This is based on two lines of reasoning: current models of psychosis assume episodes are triggered by dysregulation of brain dopaminergic activity and treated by medications that universally have D2 receptor antagonist properties; and limited research suggesting these agents may be associated with psychotic episodes in vulnerable individuals outside of the postpartum period.

Aim

The aim of this study was to examine whether D2 agonists trigger psychosis in previously well mothers, or psychotic relapse or exacerbation of symptoms in mothers with known psychotic illnesses, when used to suppress lactation during the early postpartum period.

Materials and Methods

A systematic review of the literature was undertaken of electronic databases, including: MEDLINE, EMBASE and PsychINFO from 1950 to 2015 using keywords.

Results

Eight case reports, three case series and a pharmacovigilance survey were identified.

Conclusion

Whilst D2 receptor agonists appear to increase the risk of triggering psychosis in previously well mothers and those previously diagnosed with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and postpartum psychosis, bromocriptine appears to pose a much greater risk than cabergoline. When considering the use of pharmacological agents to suppress lactation, physicians should carefully screen patients for a history of psychosis and consider alternatives to moderate this risk.
Self‐Efficacy and Planning as Predictors of Physical Activity in the Context of Workplace Health Promotion
Authors: Keller Jan , Gellert Paul , Knoll Nina , Schneider Michael , Ernsting Anna
Published: June 2016

Background

Fostering self‐efficacy and planning in individuals can support the uptake and maintenance of regular physical activity. This study examined self‐efficacy and planning as mechanisms of an online‐delivered workplace health promotion intervention to enhance employees' physical activity. A special focus lay on reciprocal interrelations among self‐efficacy and planning over time, as previous work predominantly accounted for only one predictive direction at a time.

Methods

Data from N = 1,063 employees of a pharmaceutical company who reported an intention to increase their physical activity levels were assessed at three measurement points up to 12 weeks following the intervention. Cross‐lagged panel analyses were performed to examine effects of self‐efficacy and planning on physical activity as well as reciprocal interrelations between self‐efficacy and planning.

Results

Findings indicated an increase in self‐efficacy, planning, and physical activity following the intervention. Planning was consistently linked to subsequent physical activity, whereas self‐efficacy was not associated. Also, reciprocal interrelations among self‐efficacy and planning were found across both measurement lags.

Conclusions

Planning was confirmed as a predictor of physical activity, whereas self‐efficacy was not. However, cross‐lagged interrelations indicated reciprocal reactivation among self‐efficacy and planning over time, suggesting beneficial effects of including strategies that foster both volitional constructs in interventions.
Effects of tumor necrosis factor α‐857C/T polymorphism on the expression of tumor necrosis factor α
Authors: Kimura Koji , Takayanagi Risa , Yokoyama Haruko , Yamada Yasuhiko
Published: June 2016

It was reported that homozygosity for a lymphotoxin α (LTA) 1‐1‐1‐1 haplotype (LTA NcoI‐TNFc‐aa13L‐aa26) may identify subgroups with a poor response to infliximab in Crohn's disease patients. Previously, we found a genetic polymorphism that linked with the LTA 1‐1‐1‐1 haplotype and noted that it was a tumor necrosis factor (TNF) α‐857 T allele. To investigate the effects of the ‐857C/T (rs1799724) polymorphism on the expression of TNFα, we compared levels of transcriptional activity of the gene, mRNA, and protein of the TNFα. The change in transcriptional activity of the ‐857T allele was higher than that of the ‐857C allele. Furthermore, the accumulated transcriptional activity of the ‐857T allele was 1.3‐fold higher than that of the ‐857C allele up to 48 h. The levels of mRNA and protein of the TNFα after stimulation were also shown to be significantly higher in ‐857C/T as compared to the ‐857C/C genotype. Our results suggested that TNFα promoter ‐857T is higher than ‐857C in the levels of transcriptional activity of the gene, mRNA, and protein of the TNFα. The differences in therapeutic effect of TNF inhibitors among individuals can be explained in part by the induction ability of TNFα via the ‐857C/T polymorphism.
Full‐Vector Archaeomagnetic Dating of a Medieval Limekiln at Pinilla Del Valle Site (Madrid, Spain)
Authors: Carrancho Á. , Goguitchaichvili A. , Morales J. , Espinosa‐Soto J. A. , Villalaín J. J. , Arsuaga J. L. , Baquedano E. , Pérez‐González A.
Published: June 2016

Archaeomagnetic dating based on the full geomagnetic field vector was carried out on a limekiln excavated at Pinilla del Valle archaeological site (Madrid, Spain). The limekiln tradition in this area is largely documented by historical sources for recent centuries but the date of the studied kiln's last use was unknown. The combination of mean archaeomagnetic directional and absolute archaeointensity results shows that the kiln was last used between ad 1296 and 1413, in good agreement with two independent radiocarbon dates. This study provides the first archaeomagnetic evidence that the local limekiln tradition dates back to at least late medieval times. Furthermore, the inclusion of these data in the Iberian secular variation curve and geomagnetic field models will help to improve the archaeomagnetic dating technique.
Peas in a Pod: Are Efficient Municipalities also Financially Sustainable?
Authors: Drew Joseph , Dollery Brian , Kortt Michael A.
Published: June 2016

Are efficient councils financially sustainable? We argue that an efficient council may not necessarily be financially sustainable. Our subsequent empirical analysis finds limited evidence in favour of an ‘efficiency–sustainability’ nexus. Thus, policies aimed at improving a council's efficiency may not automatically enhance their financial sustainability.

Public policy makers have principally focused on improving the operational efficiency of local government on the presumption that this will result in a more financially sustainable sector. We argue that it is erroneous to assume that an efficient local government entity will necessarily be more fiscally sustainable. To test this argument, we apply an innovative method for empirically testing the association between financial sustainability and operational efficiency to the New South Wales local government system. Our results suggest limited positive associations between financial sustainability measures and municipal efficiency.
Alliance and adherence in a systemic therapy
Authors: Lange Aurelie M.C. , van der Rijken Rachel E.A. , Delsing Marc J.M.H. , Busschbach Jan J.V. , van Horn Joan E. , Scholte Ron H.J.
Published: June 2016

Background

The client–therapist working alliance is a key contributor to effective adult psychotherapy. However, little is known about its role in family and systemic therapy. Moreover, few studies have assessed alliance longitudinally or have investigated how it interrelates with other process variables, such as therapist adherence (i.e. the extent to which the therapist adheres to the treatment protocol or manual). We hypothesised that alliance and adherence interrelate over the course of the therapy.

Method

This study investigated the bidirectional associations between alliance and therapist adherence using cross‐lagged panel analyses for a sample of 1970 adolescents and their families participating in Multisystemic Therapy (MST). A number of client characteristics were included as moderators, namely demographic characteristics, type and severity of adolescent problem behaviour, and whether or not the MST treatment was court ordered. Alliance and adherence were scored by the primary caregiver through telephone interviews at monthly intervals during treatment.

Results

Alliance in 1 month predicted therapist adherence in a subsequent month. Adherence only predicted subsequent alliance during the middle part of the treatment process. The results were not moderated by any of the client factors.

Conclusions

The results suggest that alliance and therapist adherence may reinforce one another during therapy. Although alliance may facilitate the development of therapist adherence, adherence may subsequently deepen and consolidate the client–therapist alliance. These results are independent of client characteristics.
Lymphocyte‐activation gene‐3, an important immune checkpoint in cancer
Authors: He Yayi , Rivard Christopher J. , Rozeboom Leslie , Yu Hui , Ellison Kim , Kowalewski Ashley , Zhou Caicun , Hirsch Fred R.
Published: June 2016

Immunotherapy has recently become widely used in lung cancer. Many oncologists are focused on cytotoxic T lymphocyte antigen‐4 (CTLA‐4), programmed cell death ligand‐1 (PD‐L1) and programmed cell death‐1 (PD‐1). Immunotherapy targeting the PD‐1/PD‐L1 checkpoints has shown promising efficacy in non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), but questions remain to be answered. Among them is whether the simultaneous inhibition of other checkpoints could improve outcomes. Lymphocyte‐activation gene‐3 (LAG‐3) is another vital checkpoint that may have a synergistic interaction with PD‐1/PD‐L1. Here we review the LAG‐3 function in cancer, clinical trials with agents targeting LAG‐3 and the correlation of LAG‐3 with other checkpoints.
Feedback suppression of meal‐induced glucagon‐like peptide‐1 (GLP‐1) secretion mediated through elevations in intact GLP‐1 caused by dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 inhibition: a randomized, prospective comparison of sitagliptin and vildagliptin treatment
Authors: Baranov Oleg , Kahle Melanie , Deacon Carolyn F. , Holst Jens J. , Nauck Michael A.
Published: June 2016

Aim

To compare directly the clinical effects of vildagliptin and sitagliptin in patients with type 2 diabetes, with a special emphasis on incretin hormones and L‐cell feedback inhibition induced by dipeptidyl peptidase (DPP‐4) inhibition.

Methods

A total of 24 patients (12 on a diet/exercise regimen, 12 on metformin) were treated, in randomized order, for 7‐9 days, with either vildagliptin (50 mg twice daily = 100 mg/d), sitagliptin (100 mg once daily in those on diet, 50 mg twice daily in those on metformin treatment = 100 mg/d) or placebo (twice daily). A mixed‐meal test was performed.

Results

Intact glucagon‐like peptide‐1 (GLP‐1) and glucose‐dependent insulinotropic polypeptide concentrations were doubled by both DPP‐4 inhibitors. Meal‐related total GLP‐1 responses were reduced by vildagliptin and sitagliptin treatment alike in the majority of patients (vildagliptin: p = 0.0005; sitagliptin: p = 0.019), but with substantial inter‐individual variation. L‐cell feedback appeared to be more pronounced in those whose intact GLP‐1 relative to total GLP‐1 increased more, and who had greater reductions in fasting plasma glucose after DPP‐4 inhibition. K‐cell feedback inhibition overall was not significant. There were no differences in any of the clinical variables (glycaemia, insulin and glucagon secretory responses) between vildagliptin and sitagliptin treatment.

Conclusions

Vildagliptin and sitagliptin affected incretin hormones, glucose concentrations, insulin and glucagon secretion in a similar manner. Inter‐individual variations in L‐cell feedback inhibition may indicate heterogeneity in the clinical response to DPP‐4 inhibition.
Assessment of global left ventricular excursion using three‐dimensional dobutamine stress echocardiography to identify significant coronary artery disease
Authors: Hoogslag Georgette E. , Joyce Emer , Bax Jeroen J. , Ajmone Marsan Nina , Delgado Victoria
Published: June 2016

Background

Quantitative three‐dimensional (3D) dobutamine stress echocardiography (DSE) for myocardial ischemia detection may be an adjuvant to left ventricular (LV) wall‐motion analysis. The aim of the current study was to assess the association between global 3D LV excursion during DSE and the presence of significant coronary artery disease (CAD) on coronary angiography.

Methods

Three‐dimensional DSE was performed in 40 patients (67±12 years, 68% male) who underwent subsequent coronary angiography (median 1.6 months later). Using 3D echocardiography, global LV excursion was measured (in a total of 680 segments) at rest and peak dose and the change between stages was calculated (peak‐rest=∆global LV excursion). Significant CAD was defined as >70% stenosis on coronary angiography.

Results

In total, 25 patients (63%) demonstrated significant CAD on coronary angiography. At rest, global LV excursion was similar in patients with and without significant CAD (5.1±0.2 vs 5.0±0.2 mm, P=.74). However, patients with significant CAD demonstrated a worsening in global LV excursion from rest to peak stress (from 5.1±0.2 to 4.1±0.2 mm, P<.001), while global LV excursion in patients without significant CAD remained unchanged (from 5.0±0.2 to 5.5±0.2 mm, P=.10). After adjusting for clinically relevant characteristics, ∆global LV excursion was independently associated with significant CAD (odds ratio 0.29, 95% confidence interval 0.12–0.72, P=.008).

Conclusions

Analysis of 3D echocardiographic LV excursion at global level on full‐protocol DSE may be a helpful tool to detect CAD on coronary angiography.
Calcium/calmodulin‐dependent protein kinase kinase β is neuroprotective in stroke in aged mice
Authors: Liu Lin , Yuan Hui , Denton Kyle , Li Xue‐jun , McCullough Louise , Li Jun
Published: June 2016

Stroke is a devastating neurological disease and the leading cause of long‐term disability, particularly in the elderly. Calcium/calmodulin‐dependent protein kinase kinase β (CaMKK β) is a major kinase activated by elevated levels of intracellular calcium. Our previous findings in young mice have suggested that CaMKK β is neuroprotective as KO mice had worse stroke outcomes. Because age is an important determinant of stroke outcome, we evaluated the functional role of CaMKK β in stroke in aged mice. We used middle cerebral artery occlusion to induce stroke in aged wild‐type (WT) and CaMKK β KO male mice. Lentiviral vectors carrying CaMKK β (LV‐CaMKK β) were used to overexpress CaMKK β in the mouse brain. Baseline levels of CaMKK β in the aged brain were significantly lower than those in young mice. LV‐CaMKK β treatment reduced infarcts and neurological deficits assessed 3 days after stroke. In chronic survival experiments, CaMKK β KO mice showed increased tissue loss in the ipsilateral hemisphere 3 weeks after stroke. In addition, KO mice showed poorer functional recovery during the 3‐week survival period, as measured by the rotarod test, corner test, locomotor activity assay, and novel object recognition test, compared with WT controls. The loss of blood–brain barrier proteins, inactivation of survival gene expression such as B‐cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl‐2) and an increase in inflammatory cytokines in the serum were observed after stroke with CaMKK β inhibition. We demonstrate that CaMKK β is neuroprotective in stroke in aged mice. Therefore, our data suggest that CaMKK β may be a potential target for reducing long‐term disability after stroke.