bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Emerging Infectious Diseases in Pregnancy
Authors: Beigi Richard H.
Published: April 2017

It has been recognized for centuries that pregnant women have unique susceptibilities to many infectious diseases that predispose them to untoward outcomes compared with the general adult population. It is thought a combination of adaptive alterations in immunity to allow for the fetal allograft combined with changes in anatomy and physiology accompanying pregnancy underlie these susceptibilities. Emerging infectious diseases are defined as those whose incidence in humans has increased in the past two decades or threaten to increase in the near future. The past decade alone has witnessed many such outbreaks, each with its own unique implications for pregnant women and their unborn fetuses as well as lessons for the health care community regarding response and mitigation. Examples of such outbreaks include, but are not limited to, severe acute respiratory syndrome, the 2009 H1N1 pandemic influenza, Ebola virus, and, most recently, the Zika virus. Although each emerging pathogen has unique features requiring specific considerations, there are many underlying principles that are shared in the recognition, communication, and mitigation of such infectious outbreaks. Some of these key principles include disease-specific delineation of transmission dynamics, understanding of pathogen-specific effects on both mothers and fetuses, and advance planning and contemporaneous management that prioritize communication among public health experts, clinicians, and patients. The productive and effective working collaboration among the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, and the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine has been a key partnership in the successful communication and management of such outbreaks for women's health care providers and patients alike. Going forward, the knowledge gained over the past decade will undoubtedly continue to inform future responses and will serve to optimize the education and care given to pregnant women in the face of current and future emerging infectious disease outbreaks.
Anorectal Function and Quality of Life in Patients With Early Stage Rectal Cancer Treated With Chemoradiation and Local Excision
Authors: Lynn Patricio B. , Renfro Lindsay A. , Carrero Xiomara W. , Shi Qian , Strombom Paul L. , Chow Oliver , Garcia-Aguilar Julio
Published: April 2017

BACKGROUND:

Little is known about anorectal function and quality of life after chemoradiation followed by local excision, which is an alternative to total mesorectal excision for selected patients with early rectal cancer.

OBJECTIVE:

The purpose of this study was to prospectively assess anorectal function and health-related quality of life of patients with T2N0 rectal cancer who were treated with an alternative approach.

DESIGN:

This was a prospective, phase II trial.

SETTINGS:

The study was multicentric (American College of Surgeons Oncology Group trial Z6041).

INTERVENTIONS:

Patients with stage cT2N0 rectal adenocarcinomas were treated with an oxaliplatin/capecitabine-based chemoradiation regimen followed by local excision.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES:

Anorectal function and quality of life were assessed at enrollment and 1 year postoperatively with the Fecal Incontinence Severity Index, Fecal Incontinence Quality of Life scale, and Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-Colorectal Questionnaire. Results were compared, and multivariable analysis was performed to identify predictors of outcome.

RESULTS:

Seventy-one patients (98%) were evaluated at enrollment and 66 (92%) at 1 year. Compared with baseline, no significant differences were found on Fecal Incontinence Severity Index scores at 1 year. Fecal Incontinence Quality of Life results were significantly worse in the lifestyle (p < 0.001), coping/behavior (p < 0.001), and embarrassment (p = 0.002) domains. There were no differences in the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy overall score, but the physical well-being subscale was significantly worse and emotional well-being was improved after surgery. Treatment with the original chemoradiation regimen predicted worse depression/self-perception and embarrassment scores in the Fecal Incontinence Quality of Life, and male sex was predictive of worse scores in the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy overall score and trial outcome index.

LIMITATIONS:

Small sample size, relatively short follow-up, and absence of information before cancer diagnosis were study limitations.

CONCLUSIONS:

Chemoradiation followed by local excision had minimal impact on anorectal function 1 year after surgery. Overall quality of life remained stable, with mixed effects on different subscales. This information should be used to counsel patients about expected outcomes.
Karydakis Flap With Compressing Tie-over Interrupted Sutures Without Drain versus Standard Karydakis for Treatment of Sacrococcygeal Pilonidal Sinus Disease
Authors: Sewefy Alaa M. , Hassanen Aymen , Atyia Ahmed M. , Saleh Saleh K.
Published: April 2017

BACKGROUND:

Sacroccygeal pilonidal sinus disease is a worldwide health problem, affecting young adults, mainly males, with a tendency for recurrence. Various modalities have been used for treating this condition. The Karydakis procedure is one of most commonly used asymmetric flaps for treating this condition.

OBJECTIVE:

The study aimed to evaluate the Karydakis procedure with tie-over compressing sutures instead of the routine use of a drain in the treatment pilonidal sinus.

DESIGN:

This prospective randomized controlled clinical study was conducted between January 2010 and January 2015.

SETTINGS:

The study was conducted at Minia University Hospital.

PATIENTS:

The study included 154 patients. Patients were randomly assigned into 2 equal groups.

INTERVENTIONS:

The patients in group 1 were operated on by the standard Karydakis procedure, and the patients in group 2 were operated on by the Karydakis procedure with tie-over compressing sutures without a drain.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES:

The primary outcomes measured were the incidence of seroma formation, wound complications, length of hospital stay, off-work time, and recurrence rate.

RESULTS:

All patients were discharged on the same day of surgery in group 2 compared with a mean hospital stay of 4.9 ± 2.4 days in group 1. No patients developed seroma in group 2 compared with 7.8% in group 1. In group 2, 1.3% of patients developed wound infection compared with 9.1% in group 1. The average time for return to work in group 2 was 10.2 ± 1.4 days compared with 12.6 ± 4 days in group 1. No recurrences were noted in group 2 compared with 2.6% in group 1.

LIMITATIONS:

The feedback about postoperative pain and patient satisfaction about the scar were not investigated. The extent of the disease in both groups was not investigated. The duration of follow-up too short to accurately weight recurrence rate.

CONCLUSION:

Karydakis flap with tie-over compressing interrupted sutures without a drain is safe, 1-day surgery with the lowest complications rate.
Using Biology Education Research and Qualitative Inquiry to Inform Genomic Nursing Education
Authors: Ward Linda D.
Published: April 2017

Decades of research in biology education show that learning genetics is difficult and reveals specific sources of learning difficulty. Little is known about how nursing students learn in this domain, although they likely encounter similar difficulties as nonnursing students. Using qualitative approaches, this study investigated challenges to learning genetics among nursing students. Findings indicate that nursing students face learning difficulties already identified among biology students, suggesting that nurse educators might benefit from biology education research.
Multidimensional Evaluation of Simulation-Based Course to Enhance Prelicensure Nursing Students’ Clinical Skills
Authors: Ochylski Daniel , Aebersold Michelle , Kuebric Mary Beth
Published: April 2017

This article describes the development of a new simulation-based course designed to remediate the clinical skills of prelicensure nursing students and the multidimensional method used to evaluate this new course. Evaluation of the course was guided by Kirkpatrick levels of training. The Quint Leveled Clinical Competency Tool was used to evaluate students’ clinical competencies. Success of the course was found in 3 levels of evaluation.
Value of Online Group Reflection After International Service-Learning Experiences
Authors: Smit Eileen M. , Tremethick Mary Jane
Published: April 2017

Reflection is a widely accepted learning tool and a component of competent professional practice. An exploratory descriptive study was conducted to compare the breadth and level of reflection between students engaged in individual reflection papers and students engaged in an online group reflection discussion after an international cultural immersion service-learning program. Results indicated that students participating in the online group discussion had a higher level of reflective thinking and discussed more topics in their written reflections.
Design and Validation of a Three-Dimensional Printed Flexible Canine Otoscopy Teaching Model
Authors: Nibblett Belle Marie D. , Pereira Mary Mauldin , Sithole Fortune , Orchard Paul A.D. , Bauman Eric B.
Published: April 2017

Introduction

A teaching model was sought to improve canine otoscopy skill and reduce use of teaching dogs.

Methods

An otoscopy teaching model was printed in a flexible medium on a desktop three-dimensional printer from a magnetic resonance image of a canine external ear canal. The model was mounted in a polyvinyl dog mannequin. Validation of the teaching model was sought from student, faculty, and dog perspective. Student perception of prelaboratory training was assessed using a survey regarding their experience. Otoscopy skill was assessed by faculty grading the ear anatomy visualized as well as the time required to prepare for and perform otoscopy and the time to the dog's first sign of aversion. The time data were used to assess whether there was a reduction in use of teaching dogs. Data from students exposed to the otoscopy model as part of their prelaboratory training (n = 20) were compared with those that were not exposed to the model (n = 19).

Results

The students found prelaboratory training with the model significantly more helpful than prelaboratory training without the model in all aspects of otoscopy (P < 0.05). Use of the model did not alter otoscopy skill (structures seen or time taken) or decrease dog use.

Conclusions

The students found the model helpful, but the best that can be said is the model did not negatively impact their otoscopy skill acquisition. Although the outcome of the study did not indicate a reduction in teaching dog use, the model has replaced live dog otoscopy in the institute's teaching program for initial canine otoscopy exposure.
Publication of Abstracts Presented at an International Healthcare Simulation Conference
Authors: Cheng Adam , Lin Yiqun , Smith Jeremy , Wan Brandi , Belanger Claudia , Hui Joshua
Published: April 2017

Introduction

We aimed to determine the publication rate for abstracts presented at the International Meeting for Simulation in Healthcare (IMSH) and the time between abstract presentation and publication. We also aimed to describe the study features influencing subsequent publication and the relationship between these features and journal impact factors (IFs).

Methods

All types of accepted abstracts from the 2012 and 2013 IMSH were reviewed. We extracted the following data from each abstract in duplicate: presentation format, subject, type of scholarship, research method, study design, outcome measure, number of institutions in authorship group, and number of study sites. PubMed and Google Scholar were searched (January 1, 2012 to August 1, 2016) using the names of the first, second, and last author for comparison with abstracts. Journal of publication and IF were recorded. Data were summarized with descriptive statistics. Bivariate and multivariate analysis was performed to explore the association between publication status and other variables.

Results

Of 541 abstracts, 22% (119/541) were published with a median time to publication of 16 months (interquartile range = 8.525), ranging from 0 to 43 months. The study characteristics associated with a greater likelihood of publication were the following: research-type abstract, quantitative studies, randomized trials, studies with patient or healthcare-related outcomes, multiple institutions represented in authorship group, and multicenter studies. Studies with multiple institutions in authorship group and multicenter studies were published in higher IF journals (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

The publication rate of 22% for abstracts presented at IMSH is low, indicative of the relatively new nature of simulation-based research in healthcare.
Sympathetic nerve activity promotes cardiomyocyte cell-cycle arrest and binucleation
Authors: Chen Li , Payumo Alexander Y. , Hirose Kentaro , Bigley Rachel B. , Lovas Jonathan , Kuruvilla Rejji , Huang Guo N.
Published: April 2017

Adult mammalian hearts typically have little capacity to regenerate after injuries such as myocardial infarction. In contrast, neonatal mice during the first week of life possess an incredible ability to regenerate their hearts, though this capacity is lost shortly after birth. The physiological triggers mediating this transition remains poorly understood. In this study, we demonstrate that sympathetic nerve activity promotes cardiomyocyte cell-cycle arrest and binucleation. In mice hearts lacking sympathetic nerve inputs, we observe increased mononucleated cardiomyocyte numbers and elevated cardiomyocyte proliferation. Additionally, increased cardiomyocyte mononucleation and proliferation are observed in mice with genetic and pharmacological inhibition of β-adrenergic receptors (βARs), which mediate sympathetic nerve signaling. Usingin vitrocultures of neonatal cardiomyocytes, we demonstrate that activation of β-adrenergic receptors results in decreased cardiomyocyte proliferation that is mediated through cyclic AMP-dependent protein kinase (PKA) signaling. Taken together, these results suggest that sympathetic nerve activity may play a role in limiting the ability of mammalian hearts to regenerate by restricting cardiomyocyte proliferation and promoting cytokinesis failure leading to multinucleation.
A collection of genetically engineeredPopulustrees reveals wood biomass traits that predict glucose yield from enzymatic hydrolysis
Authors: Escamez Sacha , Gandla Madhavi Latha , Derba-Maceluch Marta , Lundqvist Sven-Olof , Mellerowicz Ewa J. , Jönsson Leif J. , Tuominen Hannele
Published: April 2017

Wood represents a promising source of lignocellulosic biomass for the production of bio-based renewables, especially biofuels. However, woody feedstocks must be improved to become competitive against petroleum. We created a collection ofPopulustrees consisting of 40 genetically engineered lines to modify and to better understand wood biomass properties. A total of 65 traits were measured in these trees and in the corresponding wild-type clone, including growth parameters, wood anatomical and structural properties, cell wall composition and analytical saccharification. The relationships between saccharification of glucose and biomass traits were investigated using multivariate data analysis methods and mathematical modeling. To circumvent potential trade-offs between biomass production and saccharification potential, we also estimated the “total-wood glucose yield” (TWG) expected after pretreatment and 72h of enzymatic hydrolysis from whole trees. A mathematical model estimated TWG from a subset of 22 wood biomass traits with good predictivity (Q2= 0.8), while saccharification of glucose could be predicted from seven biomass traits (Q2= 0.49). Among the seven diagnostic traits for saccharification, four also affected biomass production, such as the ratio of S- to G-lignin which was beneficial for saccharification but detrimental for growth. The contents of various matrix polysaccharides appeared important for predicting both saccharification and TWG, including low abundance monosaccharides. In particular, fucose and mannose contents negatively correlated with TWG, apparently by negatively associating with biomass production. Both biomass production and saccharification, and hence TWG, negatively correlated with arabinose and rhamnose contents, suggesting that these low abundance monosaccharides represent markers/targets for improving feedstocks.
Sign-consistency based variable importance for machine learning in brain imaging
Authors: Gómez-Verdejo Vanessa , Parrado-Hernández Emilio , Tohka Jussi ,   Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative
Published: April 2017

An important problem that hinders the use of supervised classification algorithms for brain imaging is that the number of variables per single subject far exceeds the number of training subjects available. Deriving multivariate measures of variable importance becomes a challenge in such scenarios. This paper proposes a new measure of variable importance termed sign-consistency bagging (SCB). The SCB captures variable importance by analyzing the sign consistency of the corresponding weights in an ensemble of linear support vector machine (SVM) classifiers. Further, the SCB variable importances are enhanced by means of transductive conformal analysis. This extra step is important when the data can be assumed to be heterogeneous. Finally, the proposal of these SCB variable importance measures is completed with the derivation of a parametric hypothesis test of variable importance. The new importance measures were compared with a t-test based univariate and an SVM-based multivariate variable importances using anatomical and functional magnetic resonance imaging data. The obtained results demonstrated that the new SCB based importance measures were superior to the compared methods in terms of reproducibility and classification accuracy.
Dual functionality of cis-regulatory elements as developmental enhancers and Polycomb response elements
Authors: Erceg Jelena , Pakozdi Tibor , Marco-Ferreres Raquel , Ghavi-Helm Yad , Girardot Charles , Bracken Adrian P. , Furlong Eileen E.M.
Published: April 2017

Developmental gene expression is tightly regulated through enhancer elements, which initiate dynamic spatio–temporal expression, and Polycomb response elements (PREs), which maintain stable gene silencing. These two cis-regulatory functions are thought to operate through distinct dedicated elements. By examining the occupancy of the Drosophila pleiohomeotic repressive complex (PhoRC) during embryogenesis, we revealed extensive co-occupancy at developmental enhancers. Using an established in vivo assay for PRE activity, we demonstrated that a subset of characterized developmental enhancers can function as PREs, silencing transcription in a Polycomb-dependent manner. Conversely, some classic Drosophila PREs can function as developmental enhancers in vivo, activating spatio–temporal expression. This study therefore uncovers elements with dual function: activating transcription in some cells (enhancers) while stably maintaining transcriptional silencing in others (PREs). Given that enhancers initiate spatio–temporal gene expression, reuse of the same elements by the Polycomb group (PcG) system may help fine-tune gene expression and ensure the timely maintenance of cell identities.
The telomeric DNA damage response occurs in the absence of chromatin decompaction
Authors: Vancevska Aleksandra , Douglass Kyle M. , Pfeiffer Verena , Manley Suliana , Lingner Joachim
Published: April 2017

Telomeres are specialized nucleoprotein structures that protect chromosome ends from DNA damage response (DDR) and DNA rearrangements. The telomeric shelterin protein TRF2 suppresses the DDR, and this function has been attributed to its abilities to trigger t-loop formation or prevent massive decompaction and loss of density of telomeric chromatin. Here, we applied stochastic optical reconstruction microscopy (STORM) to measure the sizes and shapes of functional human telomeres of different lengths and dysfunctional telomeres that elicit a DDR. Telomeres have an ovoid appearance with considerable plasticity in shape. Examination of many telomeres demonstrated that depletion of TRF2, TRF1, or both affected the sizes of only a small subset of telomeres. Costaining of telomeres with DDR markers further revealed that the majority of DDR signaling telomeres retained a normal size. Thus, DDR signaling at telomeres does not require decompaction. We propose that telomeres are monitored by the DDR machinery in the absence of telomere expansion and that the DDR is triggered by changes at the molecular level in structure and protein composition.
Senior consumers and risk/benefit trade-off in functional foods
Authors: Ravoniarison Aina
Published: April 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine how French senior consumers deal with duality between perceived risk and perceived value associated with functional foods (FFs) and to analyze whether the risk-value trade-off may help to derive different consumer profiles.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected from 220 senior consumers (50-70). A two-step clustering analysis was carried out on factor scores of perceived value and perceived risk. Discriminant analysis was then employed to verify the classification reliability, and analysis of variance was performed to profile the clusters on the basis of additional variables.

Findings

Four distinctive profiles of FF senior consumers were identified. Significant differences were found to be attributed to personality traits. Interestingly, the “Trustful enthusiasts” and the “Ambivalents” consumers do not differ in their repurchase intention, despite a significant discrepancy in risk perception.

Practical implications

The study is an opportunity to offer a segmentation of this attractive growing target of health-enhancing products. The typology can help the practitioners to find out a new valuable scope of messages to better communicate to elderly market.

Originality/value

The research seeks to contribute to the existing knowledge on seniors’ nutrition-related behavior, by proposing a segmentation still lacking in research works. Since FF perceived value appears to be multidimensional and not only utilitarian, the study provides a new insight into the experiential approach of health-enhancing eating. Also, it shows how the differences between FF consumers could be attributed to certain personal variables.
Healthier food choices for children through menu pricing
Authors: Kellershohn Julie , Walley Keith , Vriesekoop Frank
Published: April 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the use of pricing (incentive and deterrent) to shift the purchase decision intent of parents when they order food for their child in a fast food restaurant.

Design/methodology/approach

A financial incentive and a deterrent pricing tactic was tested using an online quantitative approach with a sample of 400 Canadian parents, representative of the Canadian population based on geography, household income and education level.

Findings

The financial incentive tactic demonstrated that a strong and clearly articulated monetary discount can shift the stated purchase intent of parents into an increased number choosing a healthier side dish for a child’s fast food meal. A deterrent pricing approach was shown to also shift stated purchase intent, and had a higher consumer impact on a per dollar basis. Younger parents (<35 years old) were more likely to select healthier side dishes for their child; however, parents of all ages could potentially be influenced through motivational pricing approaches.

Research limitations/implications

This was an exploratory study using online surveys and stated purchase intent among Canadian respondents. Examining “stated” purchase intent only through the use of a questionnaire, and without a consequence of the choice, may not reflect a consumer’s real purchase behaviour. A future study should be conducted on pricing approaches in a restaurant setting, where the parents then have the consequences of interacting with the child and the response of the child to the food decision made on their behalf.

Practical implications

The use of pricing to shift parental food purchase decisions into ordering healthier food items for their children is a promising option, which with further exploration may lead to easily implementable restaurant-level recommendations that achieve the desired results of children eating healthier.

Social implications

As the frequency of fast food consumption continues to rise, encouraging healthier fast food choices for children could help to combat the troubling rise of obesity in young children.

Originality/value

While most historical research has focussed on teen or adult consumers, this paper offers insights to academics, marketers and restaurant industry influencers into the previously unexplored area of using pricing to encourage parents to make healthier food choices for children in a fast food restaurant environment.
Rethinking household demand for food diversity
Authors: Leschewski Andrea M. , Weatherspoon Dave D. , Kuhns Annemarie
Published: April 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to develop a group-based food diversity index, which represents diversity in household expenditures across food subgroups. The index is compared to a product code-based index and applied to reassess determinants of food diversity demand.

Design/methodology/approach

A group-based food diversity index is developed by adapting the US Healthy Food Diversity Index. Using Food Acquisition and Purchase Survey data on 4,341 US households, correlation coefficients, descriptive statistics and linear regressions are estimated to compare and reassess the determinants of group and product code-based food diversity demand.

Findings

Results show that the group and product code indices capture different forms of food diversity. The indices are only moderately correlated and have varying means and skewness. Education, gender, age, household size, race, SNAP and food expenditures are found to significantly affect food diversity. However, the magnitude and direction of the effects vary between group and product code indices. Given these differences, it is essential that studies select a diversity index that corresponds to their objective. Results suggest that group-based indices are appropriate for informing food and nutrition policy, while product code-based indices are ideal for guiding food industry management’s decision making.

Originality/value

A group-based food diversity index representative of household expenditures across food subgroups is developed.
Consumer preference and willingness to pay for the traceability information attribute of infant milk formula
Authors: Yin Shijiu , Li Ying , Xu Yingjun , Chen Mo , Wang Yiqin
Published: April 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide a basis for government decision makers regarding the gradual popularisation of traceable infant milk formula (IMF) and the construction of a safe food market system.

Design/methodology/approach

The data were collected from 1,225 randomly selected consumers in Shandong Province, China using a choice experiment. The authors used the mixed logit model to determine consumer willingness to pay (WTP) for IMF profiles with different levels of five attributes: traceability information, brand, country of origin, place of sale and price.

Findings

Results indicated that traceability information was more important than brand or country of origin for Chinese consumers. In terms of WTP for different levels of traceability information, grazing information was the most preferred by the respondents. The order of preference with regards to country of origin and brand attributes suggests that consumers prefer “foreign milk powder” to domestic products. The difference in consumer WTP between IMF sold in drugstores and in supermarkets is minimal. The higher the food safety risk perception, the higher the WTP for traceability information and the higher the WTP for “foreign milk powder (brand or country of origin)” compared with domestic products. In addition, the differences in the WTP of various risk perception groups between IMF sold in drugstores and in supermarkets are minimal.

Originality/value

This study subdivides traceability information into three levels (i.e. cow grazing, IMF producing and IMF selling) based on supply chain processes. It then compares consumer preference for the traceability information attribute with those of other attributes, such as brand, country of origin and place of sale. This research is valuable to members of the academe, policy makers and food suppliers.
Investigating industry expert discourses on aspirational CSR communication
Authors: Koep Lisa
Published: April 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate industry expert discourses on aspirational corporate social responsibility (CSR) communication. Analysing CSR managers’ and communication consultants’ talk about aspirational talk as constitutive of aspirational CSR communication, the data provide valuable insights into the dominant discourses, and draw attention to the manifold elements in the process of aspirational CSR communication.

Design/methodology/approach

Data gathered during 11 in-depth, qualitative interviews with food industry experts in CSR and CSR communication roles in Ireland, the UK and the USA are studied.

Findings

The analysis of industry expert discourses suggests that communicating CSR, and in particular the communication of CSR aspirations, is a source of tensions and ambiguity for organisational members. It is evident that aspirational talk acts as a “commitment and alignment device”, raising the bar for the organisation by encouraging enhanced performance and ensuring a competitive differentiation – and thus revealing a performative character. However, it is also shown that industry experts favour action over talk and consider verification crucial to reduce reputational risk. The challenge ahead will be to encourage organisations to embrace aspirational talk in the age of CSR professionalisation and standardisation to ensure incremental and continual CSR improvements.

Practical implications

The research findings suggest that aspirational talk is a useful resource for organisations to transition towards becoming more responsible businesses. Rather than censoring aspirational talk to prevent scepticism by some, managers rely on robust auditing and verification systems to provide proof of achievement over time.

Originality/value

The study provides data on the topic of aspirational talk, where there has been much theory development, but limited empirical evidence. It does so in the context of the food industry, an industry manifestly to the forefront in the sustainability/CSR agenda.
Unlocking corporate social responsibility
Authors: Heath Robert L. , Waymer Damion
Published: April 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the proposition that organizational policies and actions gain more legitimacy when they proactively improve (rather than reactively defend) their corporate social responsibility (CSR) standing by meeting challenges discursively mounted by competitors, watchdog activists, and governmental officials.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper reviews literature, including social capital, to consider CSR as both a reactionary and proactionary construct that guides how organizations defend and publicize their corporate social performance (CSP). The paper examines four premises relevant to the discursive (contentious and collaborative) approach to formulating and implementing CSR norms. The case of fracking (hydraulic fracturing) in the USA provides text for exploring these premises, especially the advantages of a proactionary strategy.

Findings

This paper concludes that CSR expectations of industry performance rest on threshold legitimacy standards that not only withstand but also are improved by discursive challenge.

Research limitations/implications

The case study offers limited support for the findings; more cases need to be examined to determine whether the findings are robust.

Practical implications

This paper, based on theory and research, proposes a strategic management and communication approach to social responsibility based on proaction.

Social implications

CSR communication is most constructive to a fully functioning social that generates social capital by proactive engagement rather than reactive challenges of stakeholder CSR expectations.

Originality/value

Discussion of CSR and CSP as employing profit for the good of society, based on discussions of legitimacy and social capital, strengthens CSR as strategic management and communication options. Such research clarifies how evaluative expectations of CSR are a legitimacy threshold as well as basis for reputational enhancement.
The legal regime and the compliance façade in public procurement in Ghana
Authors: Ibrahim Mohammed , Bawole Justice Nyigmah , Obuobisa-Darko Theresa , Abubakar Abdul-Bassit , Kumasey Anthony Sumnaya
Published: April 2017

Purpose

The extant literature posits several claims about the equitable resources allocation through compliance in public procurement management. Notwithstanding, there are hardly any empirical studies that explore the link between the causes and extent of compliance on one hand and value for money (VfM) on the other hand. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the efficacy of public procurement laws in ensuring VfM in a developing country context.

Design/methodology/approach

The study employs a qualitative case study approach involving three local government agencies in Ghana. Purposive and stratified random sampling strategies were used in selecting respondents who were interviewed through focused group discussions, semi-structured and open-ended questionnaires. The study utilizes an interpretivist/constructivist paradigm which allows for the co-creation of knowledge and subjectivity in knowledge acquisition.

Findings

The study finds that the presence of a legal and regulatory framework does not ipso facto guarantee compliance and VfM. Additionally, a possible reason why even reported cases of compliance do not translate into VfM is that evidence of compliance, especially in a developing country setting, is often a façade.

Practical implications

Public procurement entities in developing countries stand little chance of achieving accountability and VfM gains if they continue to rely on compliance as a micro-management tool.

Originality/value

The paper challenges the dominant assumptions in the public procurement management discourse by drawing attention to the quality of reported compliance and its implication for VfM.
The effect of the Sarbanes–Oxley Act on firm productivity
Authors: Chang Hsihui , Choy Helen HL
Published: April 2017

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the effect of the Sarbanes–Oxley Act (SOX), which was signed by President George W. Bush and came into effect on July 30, 2002, on firm productivity.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors use the total factor productivity (TFP) as our measure of firm productivity.

Findings

Analyzing annual firm-level data from the Compustat database for the period of 1991-2006, the authors find that firm productivity increases at a higher rate in the post-SOX period. The results indicate that, although firms incur significant costs in complying with the requirements of the SOX, they also benefit from these requirements as evidenced by the improved productivity over time post-SOX. There is also a shift in the output elasticities from capital toward labor. The SOX has a positive effect on the output elasticity of labor but a negative impact on that of capital.

Research limitations/implications

The results have the following important implications. The SOX is a value-enhancing regulation in that it not only strengthens a firm’s corporate governance but also improves its productivity. However, compliance with the SOX can impose a long-term cost on firms: the decrease in the capital investment, leading to a decline in the output elasticity of capital. If this decline in the capital investment continues, it can have an adverse effect on firm productivity in the long term.

Originality/value

This paper extends the literature along the line of the actual operational effects of the SOX regulation by examining its effect on the productivity of firms.
Targeting the luxury consumer
Authors: Yu Shubin , Hudders Liselot , Cauberghe Verolien
Published: April 2017

Purpose

Behavioral targeting has become a popular marketing strategy among brands as it enables advertisers to display ads to consumers based on their previous surfing behaviors. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the effectiveness of behaviorally targeted ads for luxury brands and to explore how and when behavioral targeting works.

Design/methodology/approach

A 2 (targeted vs non-targeted ads) ×2 (culture: China vs the Netherlands) between-subjects factorial design is conducted to test the hypothesis.

Findings

The result reveals that as for luxury brands, behavioral targeting can shorten the psychological distance and in turn lead to a more positive attitude toward the ad. However, the effect of behavioral targeting depends on the culture. In the Netherlands, behavioral targeting can enhance the attitude toward the ad by lowering the psychological distance. However, in China, these effects are mitigated.

Practical implications

This study contributes to the research of online luxury marketing. First, luxury brands should adapt their marketing strategy to different regional markets. In addition, luxury marketers should not worry about a shorter distance with consumers caused by the use of internet. A shorter distance does not mean to reduce an aura of mystery, but to build up a closer relationship with consumers. Luxury brands are not necessary to be aloof and supercilious like an indifferent robot. A closer relationship with consumers brings more positive effects.

Originality/value

The current research makes important contributions both to the scientific literature and to the luxury industry. First, this research reveals the effectiveness and underlying mechanisms of behavioral targeting for luxury brands and also compares the effectiveness of behavioral targeting in two cultures, which contributes to the current cross-cultural studies and international marketing research. Second, this study also helps luxury marketers to realize the importance of behavioral targeting and to know how and when they can use this new marketing strategy in a global environment.
Dietary patterns and knowledge perception of breast cancer risk patients
Authors: Shuvo Suvasish Das , Ahmad Tanvir , Paul Dipak Kumar , Zahid Md. Ashrafuzzaman
Published: April 2017

Purpose

Breast cancer is the most increasing female cancer worldwide, including Bangladesh. The purpose of this study was to investigate the association between dietary patterns and knowledge perception of breast cancer risk patients in Bangladesh.

Design/methodology/approach

A questionnaire survey about 27 frequently consumed food items was conducted among 140 patients in Amader Gram Cancer Care & Research Center. A logistic regression was applied to estimate breast cancer risk. Dietary patterns were analyzed by the principal component analysis: the fat-rich foods (meat, oil, etc.), fruits, vegetables, sugar, tea, coffee, eggs and fish patterns.

Findings

The marginal effect of the logit model estimated an increased risk of breast cancer for a“Fatty Diet”, characterized by a higher consumption of milk (1.2 per cent,p< 0.01), vegetable oils and fats, butter (3.7 per cent,p< 0.05) and red meat (4.9 per cent,p< 0.05), but a decreased risk of breast cancer for a “Fruity and Vegetable Diet”, characterized by a higher consumption of fish (1.3 per cent,p< 0.01), chicken and eggs (5.1 per cent,p< 0.05), fruits (0.05 per cent,p< 0.01) and vegetables (2.9 per cent,p< 0.05). The findings of this study also suggested that weight (0.07 per cent,p< 0.01) and age (19 per cent,p< 0.05) were associated with an increased risk of breast cancer, but exercise (13 per cent,p< 0.05) reduced breast cancer risk. The findings also showed that maximum patients had inadequate knowledge on dietary and clinical factors of breast cancer risk, in addition to poor cancer screening practice. Poor knowledge and practice of breast screening were likely to lead to late stage presentation of breast cancer.

Originality/value

The authors found an association between the prudent dietary patterns and breast cancer risk and poor knowledge on nutrition and breast cancer.
Quality attributes of chevon patties incorporated with camel milk protein hydrolysates
Authors: Kumar Devendra , Chatli Manish Kumar , Singh Raghvendar , Mehta Nitin , Kumar Pavan
Published: April 2017

Purpose

The purpose of the present study was to investigate the effect of camel milk protein hydrolysates (CMPHs) on physico-chemical, sensory, colour profile and textural quality attributes of chevon patties.

Design/methodology/approach

Camel milk proteins were hydrolyzed with three different proteolytic enzymes, viz., alcalase (CMPH-A), α-chymotrypsin (CMPH-C) and papain (CMPH-P), and dried to powder form before further utilization. Four treatments were prepared with incorporation of CMPH, viz., CMPH 0 per cent (C), CMPH-A 0.09 per cent (T1), CMPH-C 0.06 per cent (T2) and CMPH-P 0.09 per cent (T3), in the product formulation. The developed goat meat patties were evaluated for physico-chemical (pH; emulsion stability, ES; cooking yield, CY; water activity, aw), instrumental colour and texture profile and sensory attributes.

Findings

The pH, moisture, fat and ES values of goat meat emulsions were comparable amongst treatments as well as with the control; however, treated emulsions had higher ES and moisture content. The pH and moisture per cent of cooked chevon patties varied significantly, whereas other physico-chemical (CY, aw, per cent protein, per cent fat, per cent ash and per cent dietary fibre) as well as dimensional parameters (per cent gain in height and decrease in diameter) were comparable amongst treatments and the control. Hardness, springiness, stringiness, cohesiveness, gumminess and resilience of chevon patties decreased significantly (p< 0.05) with the incorporation of CMPH than that of the control; however, the values were comparable among all the treated products. Protein hydrolysate in chevon patties resulted in significant increase in redness (a*) values, whereas all other parameters (L*, b* and hue) decreased significantly as compared to that of the control. The colour and appearance, texture, juiciness overall acceptability scores were comparable in all the treated products and were significantly (p< 0.05) higher than the control. The flavour scores of C, T1and T3were comparable but significantly lower than that of T2. The overall acceptability scores of T1and T2were also comparable and significantly higher than C and T3; however, the highest score was recorded for T2.

Practical implications

Results concluded that chevon patties with acceptable sensory attributes and improved CY and textural attributes can be successfully developed with the incorporation of CMPH.

Originality/value

The protein hydrolysates of different food proteins could be explored in a same pattern to find out their implication in food matrices.
A Two‐Step Method to Identify Positive Deviant Physician Organizations of Accountable Care Organizations with Robust Performance Management Systems
Authors: Pimperl Alexander F. , Rodriguez Hector P. , Schmittdiel Julie A. , Shortell Stephen M.
Published: April 2017

Objective

To identify positive deviant (PD) physician organizations of Accountable Care Organizations (ACOs) with robust performance management systems (PMSYS).

Data Source

Third National Survey of Physician Organizations (NSPO3, n = 1,398).

Study Design

Organizational and external factors from NSPO3 were analyzed.

Data Collection/Extraction Methods

Linear regression estimated the association of internal and contextual factors on PMSYS. Two cutpoints (75th/90th percentiles) identified PDs with the largest residuals and highest PMSYS scores.

Principal Findings

A total of 65 and 41 PDs were identified using 75th and 90th percentiles cutpoints, respectively. The 90th percentile more strongly differentiated PDs from non‐PDs. Having a high proportion of vulnerable patients appears to constrain PMSYS development.

Conclusions

Our PD identification method increases the likelihood that PD organizations selected for in‐depth inquiry are high‐performing organizations that exceed expectations.
Radiopaque Images Resembling Obturated Root Canals,
Authors: Shiroma Calvin Y.
Published: April 2017

The practice of endodontics, while not as common as today, was performed during the WWII era. Some of the materials used to fill canals during this time period include gutta‐percha, calcium hydroxide, gold foil, and silver points. In this case study, fissures and fractures were present on the exposed root surfaces of the dental remains. Radiographs of the dental remains revealed canal systems similar to those obturated with a paste or semi‐solid material. The root surface defects appear to be the access point for the radiopaque material. As demonstrated in the case presentation, the radiographic image suggestive of a treated canal may easily mislead the analyst. The analyst should be suspicious of a radiopaque artifact if no evidence of access is apparent and fissures/fractures are present on the root surfaces. The defects in the tooth structure may possibly be explained by the exposure to a wet or damp environment.
HOW TO FUTURE‐PROOF YOUR FIRM
Authors: GRATTON LYNDA
Published: April 2017

To survive in a rapidly changing world, companies need to attract and retain the most talented people. Here's what Lynda Gratton says all organisations need to think about when recruiting
PLAY TO WIN
Authors: CABLE DAN
Published: April 2017

Feeling upbeat boosts performance. Fear kills creativity. Dan Cable explores emotional states and their organisational impact
Maternal super obesity and risk for intensive care unit admission in the MFMU Cesarean Registry
Authors: Smid Marcela C. , Dotters‐Katz Sarah K. , Vaught Arthur J. , Vladutiu Catherine J. , Boggess Kim A. , Stamilio David M.
Published: April 2017

Introduction

Obesity is a risk factor for intensive care unit (ICU) admission in nonpregnant populations. Less is known about maternal obesity and ICU admission risk. The objective of this study was to estimate the association between maternal obesity and ICU admission among women who delivered via cesarean section or vaginal birth after cesarean section (VBAC).

Material and methods

This is a retrospective cohort analysis of women who delivered via VBAC or cesarean section in the Maternal–Fetal Medicine Unit (MFMU) Cesarean Registry. We defined exposure as body mass index (BMI) at delivery stratified as non‐obese (BMI 18.5–29.9 kg/m2), class I or II obese (BMI 30–39.9 kg/m2), morbidly obese (BMI 40–49.9 kg/m2), and super obese (BMI ≥ 50 kg/m2). The primary outcome was ICU admission. Modified Poisson regression models estimated relative risk (RR) of ICU admission by obesity strata, after adjusting for confounders. Mediation analysis was used to estimate the proportion of ICU admission risk attributable specifically to obesity.

Results

We included 68 455 women; 40% non‐obese, 46% class I or II obese, 12% morbidly obese, and 2% super obese. Super obese women were at higher risk for ICU admission compared with non‐obese women (0.7 vs. 1.3%, adjusted RR 1.61; 95% CI 1.01–2.65), after adjusting for confounders. Among super obese women, medical comorbidities mediated 58% of ICU admission risk, suggesting that a significant proportion of ICU admission is driven by maternal obesity.

Conclusions

Super obese women who deliver by cesarean section or VBAC are at increased risk of peripartum ICU admission. Obstetricians and critical care specialists should consider possible ICU admission during delivery planning.