bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Early Versus Delayed Colonoscopy in Hospitalized Patients With Lower Gastrointestinal Bleeding
Authors: Sengupta Neil , Tapper Elliot B. , Feuerstein Joseph D.
Published: July 2016

Background:

Early colonoscopy is recommended for patients with severe lower gastrointestinal bleeding (LGIB). There is limited data as to whether this is associated with improved outcomes.

Methods:

We performed a meta-analysis of studies comparing early (<24 h) versus delayed colonoscopy (>24 h). PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science were searched for manuscripts using colonoscopy as a diagnostic/treatment modality for patients hospitalized with LGIB. Studies were included if data were available on outcomes comparing early and delayed colonoscopy. Articles were reviewed for time to colonoscopy, rebleeding, mortality, length of stay (LOS), surgery, interventions, localization of LGIB, and number of packed red blood cells. Pooled measures were reported using the Mantel-Haenszel method.

Results:

A total of 8491 studies were assessed of which 6 were included. There were 422 patients in the early arm and 479 in the delayed arm. There were no differences in age (64.2 vs. 65.7, P=0.85), admission hemoglobin (10.3 vs. 10.3 g/dL, P=0.96), LOS (5.21 vs. 6.09, P=0.52), and packed red blood cells transfusion (2.37 vs. 2.35, P=0.92) between the groups. In hospital mortality [odds ratio (OR), 1.64; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.51-5.32], rebleeding (OR, 1.38; 95% CI, 0.85-2.23) and need for surgery (OR, 0.89; 95% CI, 0.42-1.89) were not different in delayed versus early colonoscopy. Early colonoscopy was associated with a higher detection of bleeding source (OR, 2.97; 95% CI, 2.11-4.19) and endoscopic intervention (OR, 3.99; 95% CI, 2.59-6.13).

Conclusions:

Early colonoscopy is not associated with reduced rebleeding, LOS, or surgery but is associated with a higher rate of source localization and endoscopic intervention.
Laser, radiofrequency, and ethanol ablation for the management of thyroid nodules
Authors: Papini Enrico , Gugliemi Rinaldo , Pacella Claudio Maurizio
Published: July 2016

Purpose of review

The majority of benign thyroid nodules are nearly asymptomatic, remain stable in size, and do not require treatment. However, a minority of patients with growing nodules may complain of local symptoms or have cosmetic concerns, and thus seek surgical consultation.

Recent findings

The timely use of ultrasound-guided minimally invasive procedures can change the natural history of benign enlarging thyroid nodules. The procedures produce persistent shrinkage of thyroid nodules and are associated with improvement of local symptoms. Among the various procedures, percutaneous ethanol injection represents the first-line treatment for relapsing thyroid cysts. In solid nonfunctioning nodules, laser and radiofrequency ablation produces a more than 50% reduction in nodular volume that remains persistent over several years. For hyperfunctioning nodules, thermal ablation techniques are not appropriate unless radioactive iodine is contraindicated or not accessible.

MITs are best suited for the management of medium or large-sized nodules that are sonographically well visualized. Conversely, large nodules or nodular goiters that extend into the chest are difficult to treat. MITs are performed in outpatient clinics, are less expensive, and have a lower risk of complications, compared to surgery, and usually do not induce thyroid dysfunction. However, malignancy should be ruled out with a dedicated ultrasound neck assessment and repeat fine needle aspiration of the lesion before treatment.
Alternative Donor Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation Conditioned With Myeloablative Busulfan, Fludarabine, and Melphalan is Well Tolerated and Effective Against High-risk Myeloid Malignancies
Authors: Katsanis Emmanuel , Sapp Lauren N. , Pelayo-Katsanis Luz , Whitney Katherine , Zeng Yi , Kopp Lisa M.
Published: July 2016

Busulfan, fludarabine, and melphalan as hematopoietic cell transplant conditioning, was used in 6 patients aged 1 to 19 years with very high-risk myeloid malignancies. This dose regimen had an acceptable toxicity profile resulting in complete donor engraftment even following transplantation of small 2/6 antigen disparate umbilical cord blood grafts. It provided excellent disease control as all patients had high-risk features in terms of cytogenetics, therapy-related leukemia, and/or significant measurable disease before transplant. All patients remain in remission, without acute or chronic graft-versus-host disease with a median follow-up of 24 months. A larger study is indicated to confirm the efficacy and safety of this regimen.
The Hospital Community Benefit Program
Authors: Fleischhacker Sheila Erin , Ramachandran Gowri
Published: July 2016

This article briefly explains the implications for food and nutrition professionals of the new standards, tax penalties, and reporting requirements for nonprofit hospitals and healthcare systems to maintain a tax-exempt or charitable status under section 501(c)(3) of the Federal Internal Revenue Code set forth in The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (P.L. 111-148, Sec. 9007). The newly created 501(r) of the Internal Revenue Code requires, beginning with the first tax year on or after March 23, 2012, that such hospitals demonstrate community benefit by conducting a community health needs assessment (CHNA) at least once every 3 years and annually file information by means of a Schedule H (Form 990) regarding progress toward addressing identified needs. As hospitals conduct their CHNA and work further and collaboratively with community stakeholders on developing and monitoring their proposed action plans, the breadth and depth of food and nutrition activities occurring as a result of the Affordable Care Act Hospital Community Benefit Program will likely increase. The CHNA requirement, along with other emerging initiatives focused on improving the food environments and nutrition-related activities of hospitals and healthcare systems offer fruitful opportunities for food and nutrition professionals to partner on innovative ways to leverage hospital infrastructure and capacity to influence those residing, working or visiting the hospital campus, as well as the surrounding community.
Cultural Aspects in Sexual Function and Dysfunction in the Geriatric Population
Authors: Atallah Sandrine
Published: July 2016

Sexual function is distinguished by 4 major determinants: biological, psychological, sociocultural, and the interactions of these with each other. Older adults' experience of sexuality not only varies depending on the aging process but also varies depending on sociocultural factors such as cohort effects, social norms, and attitudes. It seems that cultural factors have a more significant impact on sexual interest. The impact of mixed messages, media, and medications are also important factors that affect the sexual function or dysfunction of the elderly. Clinicians are encouraged to have adequate knowledge on elder's sexuality and attitudes and to be aware of their own personal attitudes and beliefs while giving advice or treating the elderly. Proper training during medical school and specialization are important milestones that may facilitate the task of practitioners and help the elderly seek advice and talk more freely about possible sexual dysfunctions or worries. The biopsychosocial model is a good example to follow that takes into consideration the multifactorial facets of the aging sexuality.
Medical Management of Age-Related Hormonal Changes That Affect Sexual Function
Authors: Sophocles Maria Eleni
Published: July 2016

Sexual health contributes to emotional and physical well-being in postmenopausal women. Sexual dysfunction is multifactorial in etiology and is largely underdiagnosed. Genitourinary syndrome of menopause, a new term encompassing a constellation of symptoms, is common, progressive, and treatable. Disorders of sexuality, including hypoactive sexual desire disorder, are also common and clinicians should learn simple evaluation, which can aid in diagnosis and treatment of both genitourinary syndrome of menopause and hypoactive sexual desire disorder.
The Challenge of Altered Sexual Function in Stroke Survivors Undergoing Rehabilitation
Authors: Brandstater Murray , Kim Mary
Published: July 2016

The occurrence of a stroke brings about an abrupt change in the life situation for the individual and immediate family members. The physical impairments and emotional responses that follow a stroke have profound effects that impact everyday living, interpersonal relationships, intimacy, and sexuality. Numerous studies have shown that individuals report a marked decline in sexual function after a stroke. The focus of this study is on the pathophysiological and emotional factors that contribute to this decline and how these factors are evaluated and managed by health professionals during the phase of early poststroke rehabilitation.
Supporting Intimacy in the Rehabilitative, Assisted, and Long-Term Care Settings
Authors: Bradley Catherine C.
Published: July 2016

In 1987, OBRA Regulations were instituted in long-term care with an emphasis on facilities assisting residents to attain or maintain their “highest level of practicable physical, mental, psychosocial well-being.” In addition, there was an emphasis on resident rights. The resident has the right to a dignified existence and communication with and access to persons and services outside the facility. A nursing facility must protect and promote the rights of each resident. These rights cover the following areas: privacy and respect, medical care and treatment, freedom from abuse and restraint, freedom of association and communication in private, activities, work, personal possessions, grievances and complaints, financial affairs, transfer, and discharge. It is this author's opinion that these imply that residents should have the right to express themselves sexually. Sexual expression between 2 consenting adults who may be dependent for physical capacity but not for decision making and mental capacity should be addressed with respect and a resident-centered approach. The challenge for long-term care facilities is assessing the difference between sexual expression and aggression, which implies the lack of consent.
Including Sexual Function in Patient Evaluation in the Rehabilitation Setting
Authors: Milspaw Alexandra , Brandon Karen , Sher Tracy
Published: July 2016

Sexual function is an integral part of health and well-being. While sexual activity decreases with age, it continues to play an active role in our lives. Most men and women within the geriatric population want to talk about sexuality with their health care professionals but do not want to broach the topic first. Competency in taking a sexual history not only is critical to promoting healthy behaviors and reducing medical risks but also can enhance quality of life if appropriate adaptations are made and recommendations given. Including a routine, respectful, and informed sexual health assessment in the rehabilitation setting is part of providing comprehensive care. This article reviews the importance of sexual health within the geriatric population and concludes with specific guidelines on how to evaluate sexual function.
Food Supplies of Immigrant and Minority Households
Authors: Golem Devon , Hallman William , Cuite Cara , Bellows Anne C. , Byrd-Bredbenner Carol
Published: July 2016

The purpose of this article is to evaluate the disaster emergency food supply in low-income, African-American and Oaxacan-American households in the United States. The project systematically inventoried the food supply in low-income African-American (n = 30) and Oaxacan-American households (n = 30) to determine the number of days that the food supply provided all household members with 100% of the daily value for calories (HCD, household calorie days) and to project the impact of losing food-related resources. Oaxacan-American households had a mean of 17.14 ± 13.27 standard deviation HCD whereas African-American households averaged 16.74 ± 14.02 standard deviation HCD. Three days after loss of resources, 40% of Oaxacan-American and 47% of African-American households would have exhausted their food supplies for the household.
Teaching Professional Practice
Authors: McKay Tabitha , Yakes Jimenez Elizabeth , Svihla Vanessa , Castillo Tim , Cantarero Andrea
Published: July 2016

Teaching professional practices, such as the Nutrition Care Process (NCP), in lecture-based undergraduate nutrition courses can be difficult. Online Interactive Learning Assessments (ILAs) were pilot tested as a way to teach the NCP in an undergraduate nutrition course at a state university. Participating students were satisfied with the ILAs and reported that they provided the feel of authentic practical experience with the NCP. As measured by examination performance, students had similar mastery of content knowledge introduced via ILAs versus lecture. ILAs may allow students to gain content knowledge and effective professional practice skills.
Characterization of DicB by partially masking its potent inhibitory activity of cell division
Authors: Yang Shaoyuan , Pei Hairun , Zhang Xiaoying , Wei Qiang , Zhu Jia , Zheng Jimin , Jia Zongchao
Published: July 2016

DicB, a protein encoded by the Kim (Qin) prophage in
Escherichia coli
, inhibits cell division through interaction with MinC. Thus far, characterization of DicB has been severely hampered owing to its potent activity which ceases cell division and leads to cell death. In this work, through fusing maltose-binding protein to the N-terminus of DicB (MBP–DicB), we successfully expressed and purified recombinant DicB that enabled
in vitro
analysis for the first time. More importantly, taking advantage of the reduced inhibitory activity of MBP–DicB, we were able to study its effects on cell growth and morphology. Inhibition of cell growth by MBP–DicB was systematically evaluated using various DicB constructs, and their corresponding effects on cell morphology were also investigated. Our results revealed that the N-terminal segment of DicB plays an essential functional role, in contrast to its C-terminal tail. The N-terminus of DicB is of critical importance as even the first amino acid (following the initial Met) could not be removed, although it could be mutated. This study provides the first glimpse of the molecular determinants underlying DicB's function.
Constitutive equation of friction based on the subloading-surface concept
Authors: Hashiguchi Koichi , Ueno Masami , Kuwayama Takuya , Suzuki Noriyuki , Yonemura Shigeru , Yoshikawa Nobuo
Published: July 2016

The subloading-friction model is capable of describing static friction, the smooth transition from static to kinetic friction and the recovery to static friction after sliding stops or sliding velocity decreases. This causes a negative rate sensitivity (i.e. a decrease in friction resistance with increasing sliding velocity). A generalized subloading-friction model is formulated in this article by incorporating the concept of overstress for viscoplastic sliding velocity into the subloading-friction model to describe not only negative rate sensitivity but also positive rate sensitivity (i.e. an increase in friction resistance with increasing sliding velocity) at a general sliding velocity ranging from quasi-static to impact sliding. The validity of the model is verified by numerical experiments and comparisons with test data obtained from friction tests using a lubricated steel specimen.
A generalized optimization principle for asymmetric branching in fluidic networks
Authors: Stephenson David , Lockerby Duncan A.
Published: July 2016

When applied to a branching network, Murray’s law states that the optimal branching of vascular networks is achieved when the cube of the parent channel radius is equal to the sum of the cubes of the daughter channel radii. It is considered integral to understanding biological networks and for the biomimetic design of artificial fluidic systems. However, despite its ubiquity, we demonstrate that Murray’s law is only optimal (i.e. maximizes flow conductance per unit volume) for symmetric branching, where the local optimization of each individual channel corresponds to the global optimum of the network as a whole. In this paper, we present a generalized law that is valid for asymmetric branching, for any cross-sectional shape, and for a range of fluidic models. We verify our analytical solutions with the numerical optimization of a bifurcating fluidic network for the examples of laminar, turbulent and non-Newtonian fluid flows.
Joint effects of habitat, zooplankton, host stage structure and diversity on amphibian chytrid
Authors: Hite Jessica L. , Bosch Jaime , Fernández-Beaskoetxea Saioa , Medina Daniel , Hall Spencer R.
Published: July 2016

Why does the severity of parasite infection differ dramatically across habitats? This question remains challenging to answer because multiple correlated pathways drive disease. Here, we examined habitat–disease links through direct effects on parasites and indirect effects on parasite predators (zooplankton), host diversity and key life stages of hosts. We used a case study of amphibian hosts and the chytrid fungus,
Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis
, in a set of permanent and ephemeral alpine ponds. A field experiment showed that ultraviolet radiation (UVR) killed the free-living infectious stage of the parasite. Yet, permanent ponds with more UVR exposure had higher infection prevalence. Two habitat-related indirect effects worked together to counteract parasite losses from UVR: (i) UVR reduced the density of parasite predators and (ii) permanent sites fostered multi-season host larvae that fuelled parasite production. Host diversity was unlinked to hydroperiod or UVR but counteracted parasite gains; sites with higher diversity of host species had lower prevalence of infection. Thus, while habitat structure explained considerable variation in infection prevalence through two indirect pathways, it could not account for everything. This study demonstrates the importance of creating mechanistic, food web-based links between multiple habitat dimensions and disease.
TheDitylenchus destructorgenome provides new insights into the evolution of plant parasitic nematodes
Authors: Zheng Jinshui , Peng Donghai , Chen Ling , Liu Hualin , Chen Feng , Xu Mengci , Ju Shouyong , Ruan Lifang , Sun Ming
Published: July 2016

Plant-parasitic nematodes were found in 4 of the 12 clades of phylum Nematoda. These nematodes in different clades may have originated independently from their free-living fungivorous ancestors. However, the exact evolutionary process of these parasites is unclear. Here, we sequenced the genome sequence of a migratory plant nematode,Ditylenchus destructor. We performed comparative genomics among the free-living nematode,Caenorhabditis elegansand all the plant nematodes with genome sequences available. We found that, compared withC. elegans, the core developmental control processes underwent heavy reduction, though most signal transduction pathways were conserved. We also foundD. destructorcontained more homologies of the key genes in the above processes than the other plant nematodes. We suggest thatDitylenchusspp. may be an intermediate evolutionary history stage from free-living nematodes that feed on fungi to obligate plant-parasitic nematodes. Based on the facts thatD. destructorcan feed on fungi and has a relatively short life cycle, and that it has similar features to bothC. elegansand sedentary plant-parasitic nematodes from clade 12, we propose it as a new model to study the biology, biocontrol of plant nematodes and the interaction between nematodes and plants.
A generalized quantitative antibody homeostasis model: antigen saturation, natural antibodies and a quantitative antibody network
Authors: Prechl Jozsef
Published: July 2016

In a pair of articles we present a generalized quantitative model for the homeostatic function of clonal humoral immune system. In this second paper we describe how antibody production controls the saturation of antigens and the network of antibody interactions that emerges in the epitome space with the establishment of the immune system. Efficient control of antigens, be it self or foreign, requires the maintenance of antibody concentrations that saturate antigen to relevant levels. Simple calculations suggest that the observed diverse recognition of antigens by natural antibodies is only possible by cross-reactivity whereby particular clones of antibodies bind to diverse targets and shared recognition of particular antigens by multiple antibody clones contribute to the maintenance of antigen control. We also argue that natural antibodies are none else than the result of thymus independent responses against immunological self. We interpret and explain antibody production and function in a virtual molecular interaction space and as a network of interactions. Indeed the general quantitative (GQM) model we propose is in agreement with earlier models, confirms some assumptions and presumably provides the theoretical basis for the construction of a real antibody network using sequence and database data.
The druggable genome and support for target identification and validation in drug development
Authors: Finan Chris , Gaulton Anna , Kruger Felix. A , Lumbers Tom , Shah Tina , Engmann Jorgen , Galver Luana , Kelley Ryan , Karlsson Anneli , Santos Rita , Overington John P. , Hingorani Aroon D. , Casas Juan P.
Published: July 2016

Target identification (identifying the correct drug targets for each disease) and target validation (demonstrating the effect of target perturbation on disease biomarkers and disease end-points) are essential steps in drug development. We showed previously that biomarker and disease endpoint associations of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in a gene encoding a drug target accurately depict the effect of modifying the same target with a pharmacological agent; others have shown that genomic support for a target is associated with a higher rate of drug development success. To delineate drug development (including repurposing) opportunities arising from this paradigm, we connected complex disease- and biomarker-associated loci from genome wide association studies (GWAS) to an updated set of genes encoding druggable human proteins, to compounds with bioactivity against these targets and, where these were licensed drugs, to clinical indications. We used this set of genes to inform the design of a new genotyping array, to enable druggable genome-wide association studies for drug target selection and validation in human disease.
Hybrid assembly of the large and highly repetitive genome ofAegilops tauschii, a progenitor of bread wheat, with the mega-reads algorithm
Authors: Zimin Aleksey V. , Puiu Daniela , Luo Ming-Cheng , Zhu Tingting , Koren Sergey , Yorke James A. , Dvorak Jan , Salzberg Steven L.
Published: July 2016

Long sequencing reads generated by single-molecule sequencing technology offer the possibility of dramatically improving the contiguity of genome assemblies. The biggest challenge today is that long reads have relatively high error rates, currently around 15%. The high error rates make it difficult to use this data alone, particularly with highly repetitive plant genomes. Errors in the raw data can lead to insertion or deletion errors (indels) in the consensus genome sequence, which in turn create significant problems for downstream analysis; for example, a single indel may shift the reading frame and incorrectly truncate a protein sequence. Here we describe an algorithm that solves the high error rate problem by combining long, high-error reads with shorter but much more accurate Illumina sequencing reads, whose error rates average <1%. Our hybrid assembly algorithm combines these two types of reads to constructmega-reads, which are both long and accurate, and then assembles the mega-reads using the CABOG assembler, which was designed for long reads. We apply this technique to a large data set of Illumina and PacBio sequences from the speciesAegilops tauschii, a large and highly repetitive plant genome that has resisted previous attempts at assembly. We show that the resulting assembled contigs are far larger than in any previous assembly, with an N50 contig size of 486,807. We compare the contigs to independently produced optical maps to evaluate their large-scale accuracy, and to a set of high-quality bacterial artificial chromosome (BAC)-based assemblies to evaluate base-level accuracy.
Crystal structures of a subunit of the formylglycinamide ribonucleotide amidotransferase, PurS, fromThermus thermophilus,Sulfolobus tokodaiiandMethanocaldococcus jannaschii
Authors: Watanabe Yuzo , Yanai Hisaaki , Kanagawa Mayumi , Suzuki Sakiko , Tamura Satoko , Okada Kiyoshi , Baba Seiki , Kumasaka Takashi , Agari Yoshihiro , Chen Lirong , Fu Zheng-Qing , Chrzas John , Wang Bi-Cheng , Nakagawa Noriko , Ebihara Akio , Masui Ryoji , Kuramitsu Seiki , Yokoyama Shigeyuki , Sampei Gen-ichi , Kawai Gota
Published: July 2016

The crystal structures of a subunit of the formylglycinamide ribonucleotide amidotransferase, PurS, fromThermus thermophilus,Sulfolobus tokodaiiandMethanocaldococcus jannaschiiwere determined and their structural characteristics were analyzed. For PurS fromT. thermophilus, two structures were determined using two crystals that were grown in different conditions. The four structures in the dimeric form were almost identical to one another despite their relatively low sequence identities. This is also true for all PurS structures determined to date. A few residues were conserved among PurSs and these are located at the interaction site with PurL and PurQ, the other subunits of the formylglycinamide ribonucleotide amidotransferase. Molecular-dynamics simulations of the PurS dimer as well as a model of the complex of the PurS dimer, PurL and PurQ suggest that PurS plays some role in the catalysis of the enzyme by its bending motion.
The quest for organizational flexibility
Authors: Anastassiu Monica , Santoro Flavia Maria , Recker Jan , Rosemann Michael
Published: July 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to propose a method for identifying business process-relevant contextual information that is likely to impact on the process goal. The ORGANON method describes a semi-structured procedural guide alongside with a set of criteria and a matrix for analyzing ontological transactions, which can be used to identify which context information can be considered relevant to a business process.

Design/methodology/approach

– The authors report on an evaluation of the ORGANON method through a case study conducted in an organization that works in the social security domain.

Findings

– The results provide evidences of the feasibility of the method application in this scenario.

Originality/value

– Our research contributes to the literature on business processes flexibility, specifically through a proposal for context identification that can be extended to current techniques for business process modeling and in turn forms the basis for existing approaches for making business processes more flexible. The work has implications for the strategic management of organizations, by suggesting a method that provides informational support to decision makers about when, where and why business processes need to be adapted.
An institutional perspective on entrepreneurship in a conflict environment
Authors: Muhammad Noor , Ullah Farid , Warren Lorraine
Published: July 2016

Purpose

– In this paper, an institutional perspective is used to examine the different kinds of pressures on entrepreneurs manifest in a conflict environment. The purpose of this paper is to investigate how they respond to the conflict and establish legitimacy for their entrepreneurship in the challenging context of the north western areas of Pakistan.

Design/methodology/approach

– In this study, a qualitative approach is taken based on semi-structured interviews from 16 different firms in the Swat valley.

Findings

– The entrepreneurs undertake different strategies towards dealing with conflict and establishing legitimacy. These strategies are identified and examined in relation to the interactions between entrepreneurial behaviour and institutional pressures.

Research limitations/implications

– Qualitative research on a small sample inevitably presents a limitation on the generalisability of this work. Further research could employ quantitative methods to address this issue. One particular location is studied, so future research could be carried out in other countries or regions with similar problems.

Practical implications

– The study may have value for policymakers who need to know more about how to support ongoing businesses in difficult regions.

Social implications

– Better understanding of the needs of small business may in time contribute to a better business climate in difficult regions.

Originality/value

– A new dimension is added to institutional theory through its application in the very uncertain environment between all-out war and ongoing violence, identifying the possibility of weak agency for institutional change. Further, the study contributes to the growing body of literature on entrepreneurship in conflict environments.
Entrepreneurial orientation in dynamic environments
Authors: Adomako Samuel , Narteh Bedman , Danquah Joseph Kwadwo , Analoui Farhad
Published: July 2016

Purpose

– Research on entrepreneurial orientation (EO) has concluded a positive link between EO and firm performance and that relationship depends on several contingencies. The purpose of this paper is to derive insights from the absorptive capacity and contingency perspectives to introduce extra-organizational advice as a moderator of the relationship between EO and firm performance in a dynamic environment.

Design/methodology/approach

– Using survey data from 340 small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Ghana, the study examines the moderating influence of extra-organizational advice on the EO-firm performance relationship in dynamic environments.

Findings

– The study’s empirical findings suggest that extra-organizational advice amplifies the EO-performance relationship in dynamic environments.

Research limitations/implications

– The cross-sectional design of the study does not permit causal inferences to be made regarding the variables examined. Future studies may use longitudinal design to examine the causal links of the variables. Limitations aside, the study helps to answer how extra-organizational advice translates EO into improved performance in an environment characterized by constant flux.

Practical implications

– The results of this paper can assist entrepreneurs and policy makers in understanding the dynamics and processes involved in implementing a strategic orientation to achieve higher performance. For SME managers, firm performance is determined by high levels of EO and extra-organizational advice in dynamic environments. The understanding of this issue can promote the development and maintenance of entrepreneurial ventures.

Originality/value

– The paper examines an important, but under-researched issue – the moderating effect of extra-organizational advice on the EO-performance relationship in dynamic environments. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, the present study pioneers research in this area.
Sharing economy in geotag: what are the travelers’ goals sharing their locations by using geotags in social network sites during the tour?
Authors: Chung Namho , Lee Hyunae
Published: July 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to investigate what triggers tourist’s use of geotag as an information sharing tool in social media.

Design/methodology/approach

– This study divided tourists’ goals into task-involved goals (enjoyment of geotags and altruism) and ego-involved goals (anticipated extrinsic reward and desire for attention), and then examined the influences of these goals on their geotag satisfaction and information-sharing behavior by using PLS-Graph 3.0.

Findings

– Whereas the anticipated extrinsic rewards, altruism, and enjoyment of geotags were found to influence their geotag satisfaction, desire for attention was not. Enjoyment of geotags was found to be the strongest predictor of tourists’ geotag satisfaction, which in turn affected their information-sharing behaviors. Based on these findings, the authors present theoretical and practical implications with suggestions for future research.

Research limitations/implications

– Geotag services are not identical in all social media, so study participants might have perceived the characteristics of geotags differently depending on which social media they use.

Originality/value

– The enjoyment of geotags, altruism, and anticipated reward were found to influence geotag satisfaction; however, desire for attention was not. The results imply that enjoyment of geotags and anticipated reward strongly predict geotag satisfaction.
Analyzing the influence of electronic word of mouth on visit intention: the mediating role of tourists’ attitude and city image
Authors: Doosti Shabnam , Jalilvand Mohammad Reza , Asadi Ali , Khazaei Pool Javad , Mehrani Adl Parisa
Published: July 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to investigate how electronic word of mouth (e-WOM), attitude, and city image affect tourists’ intention to visit a tourism city.

Design/methodology/approach

– Drawing from the tourism management literature, the authors hypothesize and test the relationships among e-WOM, attitude, overall city image, and visit intentions. Structural equation modeling was conducted to test the proposed relationships among the variables.

Findings

– The empirical results suggested that e-WOM has a positive and significant influence on tourists’ attitude and overall city image. Further, e-WOM, attitude toward city, and overall city image were significant determinants of visit intentions.

Originality/value

– The paper contributes to understand the relationship between four constructs of e-WOM, attitude, and overall city image and visit intentions, tested in city tourism in the context of a tourism city.
Crooked strategy implementation: covert tactics fill the gaps
Authors: Pretorius Marius
Published: July 2016

Purpose

Today, more than ever, businesses need to improve strategy implementation. Part of achieving implementation requires strategies to be embedded in the daily activities of executors (practitioners) – thus to embed strategy in implementation. The purpose of this paper is to introduce a “lesser acknowledged” strategy type that is ill-considered by management and leadership alike. “Covert tactics” are described.

Design/methodology/approach

Through dialectic conversation and applying the devil’s advocacy approach to challenging embeddedness and implementation liabilities, the phenomenon of “covert tactics” was identified. Purposively selected subjects participated in the dialectic conversations. Their opinions were collected and patterns identified until their “tactics” became apparent. Another element of interest was the underlying thinking of subjects to understand what drives them to follow covert tactics.

Findings

Covert tactics are phantasmal individual ploys that employees take in response to their own micro situation. Higher-level managers are often not aware of their existence, as these tactics are not spoken about but do exist. Such managers assume the organisation’s professed strategies are pursued but are oblivious to the “real tactics” that are pursued.

Research limitations/implications

The research proposes an “invisible concept” and depends on one individual view point.

Practical implications

Understanding and accepting the existence of covert tactics gives managers flexibility to respond.

Originality/value

To address their existence, there is no need to expose and oppose covert tactics, as this will make them more “invisible”. The innovative approach is to recognise their existence and align them to the organisation strategy. The quality of the strategy message was shown to be the fundamental tool that managers can use to address covert tactics by replacing the need for their existence.
Transforming celebrities through social media: the role of authenticity and emotional attachment
Authors: Kowalczyk Christine M. , Pounders Kathrynn R.
Published: July 2016

Purpose

Social media platforms are changing the way consumers and celebrities engage. This research aims to better understand how and why consumers use social media to engage with celebrities, and identify the potential antecedents and outcomes, which may result from these online connections.

Design/methodology/approach

Both qualitative (two focus groups) and quantitative (survey) methods were used to explore consumer engagement with celebrities on social media. A structural model from the survey data was developed and analyzed.

Findings

Textual analysis of the focus groups revealed that consumers follow celebrities on social media to obtain career and personal information about the celebrity. Further, authenticity and emotional attachment were identified as favorable aspects of following celebrities on social media. An empirical study confirmed that the constructs of authenticity and emotional attachment positively influence the outcomes of word-of-mouth and purchase likelihood.

Research limitations/implications

The study was limited by the self-identification of a favorite celebrity and social media site. Future research should include empirical testing of specific celebrities featured on a specific social media site and the development of the constructs identified in the focus groups.

Practical implications

This research sheds light on the antecedents and outcomes associated with consumer–celebrity engagement on social media. The implications for marketers and advertisers include a better understanding of how celebrities transform themselves and engage with consumers on social media.

Originality/value

This paper fulfills an identified need to study authenticity and emotional attachment as they relate to celebrities and consumers’ engagements on social media.
Tattooing and brand sponsorship: how far is too far?
Authors: Weidner Kelly , Bal Anjali , Rains Samantha , Leeds Christopher
Published: July 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore how consumers view sponsorship tattoos. This study specifically addresses three research questions: first, how consumers view the idea of sponsorship tattooing; second, how the brand of the tattoo alters acceptance of the tattoo; and third, how the placement on the body of the athlete affects acceptance of the tattoo.

Design/methodology/approach

To address these research questions, focus groups were conducted.

Findings

Findings highlighted three important themes related to tattoos, sponsorships and brand perceptions: meaning of the tattoo itself, meaning related to the brand and the tattoo and meaning related to the tattoo and athlete.

Practical implications

For practitioners, this research highlights the complexity between consumers’ interaction with brands through sponsorship tattoos, which is a complicated, multi-dimensional process during which meaning can be assigned to multiple facets of the sponsorship relationship.

Originality/value

For scholars, this research offers a glimpse into an emerging trend that ties together the multi-billion dollar sports and tattoo industries. In sum, this research identifies ways in which consumers interpret meaning related to the tattoo itself, the brand and the athlete based on placement, sport and brand perceptions.
When social media met commerce: a model of perceived customer value in group-buying
Authors: Lee Yong-Ki , Kim Sally Y. , Chung Namho , Ahn Kwanghoon , Lee Jong-Won
Published: July 2016

Purpose

Social commerce using social media has been on the rapid increase. Among various social commerce models, group-buying has become the mainstream. There is a paucity of research related to how customers perceive value in group-buying situations. This paper aims to examine and analyze various factors that influence perceived customer value in group-buying.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected using a survey on customers who had purchased a restaurant service deal on a group-buying site. A partial least squares technique was used to estimate the model.

Findings

Results show that perceived customer value affects customers’ group buying intentions and that all four antecedents of perceived value (low price, valence of experience, trust in social media and reputation of the group-buying site) have a significant influence. Implications and further research directions are discussed at the end of the paper.

Originality/value

This study provides valuable strategic implications for social commerce firms.
Hypertension in rat offspring subjected to perinatal protein malnutrition is not related to the baroreflex dysfunction
Authors: Paulino‐Silva K M , Costa‐Silva J H
Published: July 2016

This study reports on the effects of maternal protein malnutrition on baroreflex (BR) control of the heart rate and sympathetic nerve activity in the hypertensive male offspring of Wistar rat dams. Wistar rat dams were fed a normal protein (NP) control (17% protein) or a low protein (LP; 8% protein) diet during pregnancy and lactation, and their male offspring were studied when 90 days old. In these animals we evaluated spontaneous and induced BR control, the variability of the cardiovascular system and analyzed a direct recording of lumbar sympathetic nervous activity. The 90 day‐old LP conscious rats had increased arterial pressure compared to NP, with enhanced low frequency oscillations of the systolic pressure, but no changes in the spontaneous and induced BR control of heart rate. In relation to nerve recordings, we observed similar values in terms of mean, frequency and amplitude between the groups. In addition, we noted that spontaneous and induced BR control of lumbar sympathetic activity in the LP group was similar to the control group. The data indicate that hypertension in the adult rat offspring subjected to perinatal protein malnutrition is not related to baroreflex dysfunction.
Breast‐cancer‐isation explored: Social experiences of gynaecological cancer in a Norwegian context
Authors: Solbrække Kari Nyheim , Lorem Geir
Published: July 2016

This article's point of departure is recent claims that breast cancer survivorship displaying positivity and self‐growth represents the gold standard for all forms of cancer survivorship in English‐speaking Western cultures. An interview study of Norwegian women regarding gynaecological cancer followed by hysterectomy is used to explore whether this process is taking place beyond this setting. Results show that the women's experiences of having to display survivorship in this manner are not as notable as found in English‐speaking Western countries, neither is their experience of social othering. Reasons for this may be strong norms of social egalitarianism marking Norwegian culture and breast cancer informational campaigns that have not yet totally defined Norwegian norms for how to survive cancer. At the clinic and in the public sphere, however, the women experience gynaecological cancer as clearly having lower status than breast cancer, leading to a strong sense that the bodily site of their disease is taboo. Hence, as found in English‐speaking cultures, the complex embodied nature of having gynaecological cancer and life beyond treatment seems to be silenced by the media and medical institutions. Finally, implications for future research and health care related to cancer survivorship are also discussed.
Meaningful Use of the Indian Health Service Electronic Health Record
Authors: Kruse Gina R. , Hays Howard , Orav E. John , Palan Martha , Sequist Thomas D.
Published: July 2016

Objective

To understand the use of electronic health record (EHR) functionalities by physicians practicing in an underserved setting.

Data Source/Study Setting

A total of 333 Indian Health Service physicians (55 percent response rate) in August 2012.

Study Design

Cross‐sectional.

Data Collection

The survey assessed routine use of EHR functionalities, perceived usefulness, and barriers to adoption.

Principal Findings

Physicians routinely used a median 7 of 10 EHR functionalities targeted by the Meaningful Use program, but only 5 percent used all 10. Most (63 percent) felt the EHR improved quality of care. Many (76 percent) reported increased documentation time and poorer quality patient–physician interactions (45 percent). Primary care specialty and time using the EHR were positively associated with use of EHR functionalities, while perceived productivity loss was negatively associated.

Conclusions

Significant opportunities exist to increase use of EHR functionalities and preserve physician–patient interactions and productivity in a resource‐limited environment.
Overall Antioxidant Properties of Malt and How They Are Influenced by the Individual Constituents of Barley and the Malting Process
Authors: Carvalho Daniel O. , Gonçalves Luís M. , Guido Luís F.
Published: July 2016

In the past several years researchers have focused on the study of the antioxidant properties of barley and barley malt as well as their influence on beer quality. Some malt constituents have been reported as potent antioxidants due to their radical‐scavenging and reducing properties, with a positive effect on beer oxidative stability. However, barley and malt can suffer some serious modifications during malting and roasting, namely on the levels of phenolic compounds and the development of Maillard reaction products, which may have a great impact on the overall antioxidant properties of malt. Although some studies have reported an increase of the antioxidant capacity during malting, others have mentioned an opposite effect. Recently, researchers have shown that compounds developed in malt during heat treatment at high temperature and long periods of time, as result of the Maillard reaction, can also exhibit pro‐oxidant properties involving the metal‐catalyzed Fenton reaction due to its reductive properties. This paper reviews important information and recent data regarding the chemical changes malting and roasting undergo along with their influence on the different anti‐ and pro‐oxidant properties described for barley and malt. The contribution of individual components to the overall antioxidant capacity of malt is also discussed.
Juvenile Transfer and the Specific Deterrence Hypothesis
Authors: Zane Steven N. , Welsh Brandon C. , Mears Daniel P.
Published: July 2016

Research Summary

We conducted a systematic review of recidivism outcomes for juveniles transferred to adult court, incorporating meta‐analytic techniques. Nine studies—based on nine statistically independent samples—met the inclusion criteria. Pooled analysis suggests that juvenile transfer had no statistically significant effect on recidivism. However, the distribution of effect sizes was highly heterogeneous and, given the strength of the research designs, suggests that in some instances transfer may decrease recidivism and in others may increase it.

Policy Implications

The practice of transferring juvenile offenders to the criminal justice system has decreased from its peak in the mid‐1990s, but it is still estimated to affect tens of thousands of juveniles in the United States each year. As such, a coherent rationale for transfer policy is needed. The present review casts doubt on one prominent justification for transfer, that it creates a specific deterrent effect for transferred juveniles. Indeed, the results suggest that transfer may in fact increase offending. More generally, the results underscore the need for more high‐quality research to identify the conditions under which transfer may decrease or increase recidivism.