bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Coping with unpredictable supply: the role of flexibility and adaptation
Authors: Dreyer Bent , Grønhaug Kjell
Published: September 2012

Purpose

This paper aims to address how firms cope when input due to primary uncertainty is unpredictable, and thus timely and adequate supply to customers are impossible to guarantee.

Design/methodology/approach

Two sets of data are applied to capture uncertainties, flexibilities and adaption strategies amongst suppliers and producers respectively.

Findings

The findings show that flexibility is a prerequisite to cope when faced with unpredictable supply. Flexibility comes in many forms. They are partly firm‐specific and can be conceived as a valuable resource.

Research limitations/implications

The present study is limited to one industry only.

Practical implications

Unpredictability imposes the need for adaptations, which requires flexibility. However, adjustment to the new landscape is a prerequisite to succeed.

Originality/value

This paper offers insight on how firms cope when needed input to operate is unpredictable, i.e. an almost neglected topic in the marketing literature, where adequate supply in most cases is seen as unproblematic.
Strategic flexibilities and export performance
Authors: Cadogan John W. , Sundqvist Sanna , Puumalainen Kaisu , Salminen Risto T.
Published: September 2012

Purpose

The study aims to develop and test a model of export performance, focusing on the degree to which firms have different types of export flexibility and the degree to which firms adopt market‐oriented behavior in their export operations (i.e. their degree of export market‐oriented [EMO] behavior). Furthermore, the study seeks to examine the moderating roles that EMO behavior and export environment play with respect to the relationships between export flexibility dimensions and export performance.

Design/methodology/approach

The model is tested on a sample of 783 exporting firms. Data were collected via mail survey. Analysis was undertaken using structural equation modeling.

Findings

EMO behavior moderates the relationship between export flexibility and export sales performance. However, EMO behavior's moderating role differs depending on (a) the source of the export flexibility, and (b) the environmental conditions the firms face. Increasing levels of EMO behavior are associated with increased export sales performance under all conditions studied.

Research limitations/implications

Reliance on cross‐sectional data may limit generalizability, as may the reliance on single country data. Additional sources of export flexibility should be modeled, as should more complex models of the export environment.

Practical implications

The findings identify several situations when EMO behavior is most beneficial and others where it is beneficial (but less so). Similarly, the results pinpoint situations where greater levels of export flexibility are a necessity. Managers should look to exploit this knowledge by enhancing EMO behavior and export flexibility.

Originality/value

This study is one of the very few that explicitly identifies export flexibility as a source of competitive advantage in the exporting literature. It is also the first study to suggest that EMO behavior's ability to shape export success is determined in part by other factors internal to the firm (e.g. export flexibility), as well as factors external to the firm (environment).
Neurofinance and investment behaviour
Authors: Kalra Sahi Shalini
Published: September 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present a review as well as a synthesis of the extant literature in the field of Neurofinance. The paper has been divided into eight parts. The first and second parts introduce the paper and dwell upon the brain functions in financial decisions. Part three presents the origin of Neurofinance and part four explains the difference between traditional finance, behavioural finance and neurofinance. Part five and six of the paper look into the research studies in Neurofinance and their application. Part seven gives a brief discussion on the limitations of neurofinance studies and part eight gives the conclusion.

Design/methodology/approach

The existing body of academic literature pertinent to the domain of Neurofinance was reviewed so as to provide an integrated portrayal and synthesis of the current level of knowledge in this field. This paper covers the insights on the subject for developing a deeper understanding of the investor's psychology.

Findings

Neurofinance is a very young discipline. It tries to relate the brain processes to the investment behaviour. Most of the researches in the domain of neurofinance focus on trading behaviour. It would be interesting to explore the workings of the brain for other investment behaviours too like personal financial planning decisions, etc.

Originality/value

Neurofinance is emerging as an alternate field of study and practice and this paper is an attempt to look at the development of Neurofinance and its role in developing a better understanding of the investor behaviour.
First demonstration on direct laser fabrication of lunar regolith parts
Authors: Krishna Balla Vamsi , Roberson Luke B. , O'Connor Gregory W. , Trigwell Steven , Bose Susmita , Bandyopadhyay Amit
Published: September 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the feasibility of direct fabrication of lunar/Martian regolith simulant parts, in a freeform environment, using Laser Engineering Net Shaping (LENS™) – an additive manufacturing technology.

Design/methodology/approach

Bulk lunar regolith simulant structures were fabricated using a LENS™‐750. Dense parts without any macroscopic defects were produced at a laser power of 50W, a scan speed of 20 mm/s, and a powder feed rate of 12.36 g/min. The laser processed parts were characterized using X‐ray diffraction, differential scanning calorimetry, scanning electron microscope and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy to evaluate the influence of laser processing on the microstructure, constituent phases and chemistry of lunar regolith simulant.

Findings

A combination of laser parameters resulting in a 2.12 J/mm2 laser energy appeared to be ideal for generating a melt pool necessary for lunar regolith powder deposition without excessive liquid pool spreading and cracking of solidified parts. The results show that LENS™ based laser processing transformed crystalline regolith into nanocrystalline and/or amorphous regolith structures as a result of complete melting followed by resolidification. Laser processing also resulted in marginal changes in the composition of the regolith.

Originality/value

Establishment of a lunar/Martian outpost necessitates the development of methods to utilize in situ mineral resources for various construction and resource extraction applications. Fabrication technologies are critical for habitat structure development, as well as repair and replacement of tools and parts at the outpost. Current experimental results presented in the paper clearly demonstrate that net shape regolith simulant parts can be fabricated using LENS™ by exploiting its capabilities.
A social constructionist perspective of gender stereotyping at work
Authors: Dulini Anuvinda Fernando Weerahannadige
Published: September 2012

Purpose

This paper takes a social constructionist approach to explore how highly skilled women workers in Sri Lanka manage gender stereotyping in their workplaces. The purpose of this paper is to contribute new insights into existing understandings of women's careers in diverse socio‐cultural contexts.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper is based on one‐to‐one in‐depth interviews with 24 Sri Lankan women in early, mid and late career.

Findings

The findings reveal how the women in this sample used eight strategies to navigate through the various gender biases they perceived to impact on their careers. The implications of respondents' actions are highlighted.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to the limited literature on women's careers in South Asia and develops existing understandings of how women's actions contribute towards maintaining and/or redefining the gender biases they encounter (see Powellet al.). Furthermore, the empirical findings highlight differences in the ways women from public and private organisations manage gender biases, while illuminating the differential impact of gender stereotypes on women in early, mid and late career.
Managing disaster knowledge: identification of knowledge factors and challenges
Authors: Pathirage Chaminda , Seneviratne Krisanthi , Amaratunga Dilanthi , Haigh Richard
Published: September 2012

Purpose

Knowledge management can play a vital role through ensuring the availability and accessibility of accurate and reliable disaster risk information when required and through effective lesson learning. Identification of key disaster knowledge factors will be an enabler to manage disasters successfully. The purpose of this paper is to present key knowledge factors relating to disaster management cycle, and explore a few challenges relating to identified disaster knowledge factors.

Design/methodology/approach

A list of disaster knowledge factors was first identified through a comprehensive literature review and later semi‐structured interviews were conducted among few disaster management practitioners to explore the influence and challenges relating to identified knowledge factors.

Findings

Technological, operational/managerial, economic, social, legal and environmental factors seem to have direct influence over the disaster management cycle, while the influence of institutional and political factors seemed indirect and it is through other factors identified. Among key challenges, the lack of detection and warning systems, the need for effective education, training and awareness raising programmes, the need for regular updating of disaster related laws, lack of funds for economic planning measures, poor planning, poor communication, poor leadership, and poor institutional arrangement were highlighted.

Originality/value

Owing to paucity of literature and inadequate empirical research done, this paper provides the basis for more empirical research on disaster knowledge factors and sharing of lessons learned. In order to enhance the management of disasters in future, challenges identified need to be addressed.
A financial management tool for sport federations
Authors: Winand Mathieu , Zintz Thierry , Scheerder Jeroen
Published: September 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to develop a tool to manage financial performance of sport federations. It stimulates thinking about the necessity for non‐profit sport organisations to develop financial performance measures and management to survive and/or to grow.

Design/methodology/approach

Adapting the Ritchie and Kolodinsky model of factor analysis through financial ratios in the sport federation context, the paper develops a framework for financial performance measurement of sport federations in Belgium for the years 2001 through 2006.

Findings

Based on a principal component analysis, six financial performance‐related categories were constructed, i.e.: public funds dependence; financial balance; attraction of resources; financial budget; member services investment and elite services investment. They form the basis of a dynamic strategic management tool where financial categories are related to each other.

Research limitations/implications

The financial management tool can be a starting point for further organisational (performance) research. Differences and similarities between countries (e.g., sport policy priorities) and sport organisations (e.g., sport profiles) could be better investigated through this financial performance framework.

Practical implications

The tool developed should help strategic volunteers and managers of sport federations to take strategic decision relying on financial information in order to pilot their organisation and to communicate with their stakeholders.

Originality/value

Developing financial performance measurement of non‐profit sport organisations is challenging and considerably different from for‐profit and non‐profit organisations. It provides researchers and practitioners with a viable model for analysing financial strategy and performance of sport federations over time.
Infibulated women have an increased risk of anal sphincter tears at delivery: a population‐based Swedish register study of 250 000 births
Authors: BERGGREN VANJA , GOTTVALL KARIN , ISMAN ELISABETH , BERGSTRÖM STAFFAN , EKÉUS CECILIA
Published: September 2012

Objective. To investigate the risk for anal sphincter tears (AST) in infibulated women. Design. Population‐based cohort study. Setting. Nationwide study in Sweden. Population. The study population included 250 491 primiparous women with a vaginal singleton birth at 37–41 completed gestational weeks during 1999–2008. We only included women born in Sweden and in Africa. The African women were categorized into three groups; a Somalia group, n = 929, where over 95% are infibulated; the Eritrea‐Ethiopia‐Sudan group, n = 955, where the majority are infibulated, compared with other African countries, n = 1035, where few individuals are infibulated but had otherwise similar anthropometric characteristics. These women were compared with 247 572 Swedish‐born women. Methods. Register study with data from the National Medical Birth Registry. Main outcome measures. AST in non‐instrumental and instrumental vaginal delivery. Results. Compared with Swedish‐born women, women from Somalia had the highest odds ratio for AST in all vaginal deliveries: 2.72 (95%CI 2.08–3.54), followed by women from Eritrea‐Ethiopia‐Sudan 1.80 (1.41–2.32) and other African countries 1.23 (0.89–1.53) after adjustment for major risk factors. Mediolateral episiotomy was associated with a reduced risk of AST in instrumental deliveries. Conclusion. Delivering African women from countries where infibulation is common carries an increased risk of AST compared with Swedish‐born women, despite delivering in a highly technical quality healthcare setting. AST can cause anal incontinence and it is important to investigate risk factors for this and try to improve clinical routines during delivery to reduce the incidence of this complication.
Drivers of Mangrove Litterfall within a Karstic Region Affected by Frequent Hurricanes
Authors: Adame Maria F. , Zaldívar‐Jimenez Arturo , Teutli Claudia , Caamal Juan P. , Andueza María T. , López‐Adame Haydée , Cano Romel , Hernández‐Arana Héctor A. , Torres‐Lara Ricardo , Herrera‐Silveira Jorge A.
Published: September 2012

Tropical storms can shape the structure and productivity of mangrove forests. In this study, we compared current litterfall with historical tropical storm disturbance in the karstic Yucatan Peninsula (YP). We also explored the relationship between litterfall and the fresh/seawater mixture of floodwater. Our hypotheses were that litterfall peaks at moderate perturbations and in sites where seawater dominates the floodwater mixture, and thus, where soil total phosphorus (TP) is relatively high. Litterfall was sampled for 2 yr, from eight mangrove forests around the YP. At each site, forest structure, interstitial salinity, TP, nitrogen, carbon, pH, and bulk density were measured. Our results show that mangrove forest from northeast YP are historically impacted by stronger and more frequent tropical storms compared with those in northwest and southeast YP, where tropical storm intensity is moderate and mild, respectively. Litterfall was higher in northwest YP (≥3 g/m2 d) compared with northeast and southeast (≤ 2 g/m2 d), mimicking a subsidy‐stress gradient where highest productivity is reached at moderate perturbations. Neither salinity nor forest structure alone satisfactorily explained litterfall variability. Soil TP followed a similar geographical pattern as the disturbance gradient: highest concentrations in the northwest YP (≥0.05%) and lowest in the northeast and southeast (≤ 0.03%). Thus, it is likely that TP, and not tropical storm disturbance, is the main driver of litterfall in mangrove forests of the YP. Alterations in TP availability (e.g., sea level rise and aquifer contamination) have the potential to modify mangrove productivity in the region.
Growth hormone deficiency due to sports‐related head trauma is associated with impaired cognitive performance in amateur boxers and kickboxers as revealed by P300 auditory event‐related potentials
Authors: Tanriverdi Fatih , Suer Cem , Yapislar Hande , Kocyigit Ismail , Selcuklu Ahmet , Unluhizarci Kursad , Casanueva Felipe F. , Kelestimur Fahrettin
Published: September 2012

Objectives

It has been recently reported that boxing and kickboxing may cause pituitary dysfunction, GH deficiency in particular. The strong link between poor cognitive performance and GH deficiency due to causes other than head trauma and the improvement of cognitive function after GH replacement therapy have been previously shown. P300 auditory event‐related potential (ERP) measure is widely used to evaluate cognitive performance. In this study, we investigated the relation between the GH‐IGF‐I axis and cognitive performance in boxers and kickboxers.

Design and patients

Forty‐one actively competing or retired male boxers (n: 27) and kickboxers (n: 14) with a mean age of 29·04 ± 9·30 year and 14 age‐ and education‐matched healthy male controls were included in the study. For neuropsychological tests, the mini‐mental state examination (MMSE) and Quality of Life Assessment of GH Deficiency in Adults (QoL‐AGHDA) questionnaires were administered. Moreover, cognitive performance was evaluated according to P300 ERPs.

Results

Nine of 41 (21·9%) athletes had GH deficiency. P300 amplitudes were lower at all electrode sites in the GH‐deficient group than in controls, and the differences were statistically significant at Fz and Oz electrode sites (P < 0·05). When GH‐deficient athletes were compared with GH‐sufficient athletes, the P300 amplitudes were lower at all electrode sites in the GH‐deficient group; these differences were statistically significant at Fz, Pz and Cz electrode sites (P < 0·05). In all athletes, there were significant negative correlations between IGF‐I levels vs P300 latencies, and there were significant positive correlations between IGF‐I levels vs P300 amplitudes (P < 0·05).

Conclusion

This study provides the first electrophysiological evidence for the close relation between the P300 ERPs and the GH‐IGF‐I axis in boxers and kickboxers.
Method‐specific serum cortisol responses to the adrenocorticotrophin test: comparison of gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry and five automated immunoassays
Authors: El‐Farhan Nadia , Pickett Alan , Ducroq David , Bailey Catherine , Mitchem Kelly , Morgan Nicola , Armston Annie , Jones Laila , Evans Carol , Rees D. Aled
Published: September 2012

Objective

The serum cortisol response to the adrenocorticotrophin (ACTH) test is known to vary significantly by assay, but lower reference limits (LRL) for this response have not been established by the reference gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry (GC‐MS) method or modern immunoassays. We aimed to compare the normal cortisol response to ACTH stimulation using GC‐MS with five widely used immunoassays.

Design, Patients and Measurements

An ACTH test (250 μg iv ACTH1–24) was undertaken in 165 healthy volunteers (age, 20–66 years; 105 women, 24 of whom were taking an oestrogen‐containing oral contraceptive pill [OCP]). Serum cortisol was measured using GC‐MS, Advia Centaur (Siemens), Architect (Abbott), Modular Analytics E170 (Roche), Immulite 2000 (Siemens) and Access (Beckman) automated immunoassays. The estimated LRL for the 30 min cortisol response to ACTH was derived from the 2·5th percentile of log‐transformed concentrations.

Results

The GC‐MS‐measured cortisol response was normally distributed in males but not females, with no significant gender difference in baseline or post‐ACTH cortisol concentration. Immunoassays were positively biased relative to GC‐MS, except in samples from women on the OCP, who showed a consistent negative bias. The LRL for cortisol was method‐specific [GC‐MS: 420 nm; Architect: 430 nm; Centaur: 446 nm; Access 459 nm; Immulite (2000) 474 nm] and, for the E170, also gender‐specific (female: 524 nm; male 574 nm). A separate LRL is necessary for women on the OCP.

Conclusions

Normal cortisol responses to the ACTH test are influenced significantly by assay and oestrogen treatment. We recommend the use of separate reference limits in premenopausal women on the OCP and warn users that cortisol measurements in this subgroup are subject to assay interference.
Time of acquisition of HCV infection in renal transplant recipients: a major prognostic factor for disease progression
Authors: Delladetsima Ioanna , Psichogiou Mina , Sypsa Vana , Sakellariou Stratigoula , Hatzakis Angelos , N. Boletis John
Published: September 2012

Background

This study aims to identify crucial factors affecting the evolution of liver disease in HCV‐infected renal transplant recipients.

Methods

Forty‐two HCV‐infected recipients with known time of HCV acquisition were followed up for a mean (SD) of 7.6 ± 3.4 yr after transplantation with consecutive liver biopsies. Hepatitis progression was defined by: a) fibrosis progression ≥0.2 stages/yr and/or b) development of a cholestatic syndrome.

Results

Twenty‐three patients (54.8%) displayed benign and 19 (45.2%) aggressive hepatitis progression. Hepatitis course was aggressive in 9.1% and 85% of the patients infected pre‐ and peri/post‐transplantation, respectively (p < 0.001). In multivariate analysis, patients who acquired HCV infection peri‐ or after transplantation had an increased risk of an adverse outcome compared with those infected before transplantation (p = 0.001). HCV RNA levels at the time of first liver biopsy were lower in patients showing a benign course compared with those with aggressive evolution (p = 0.052).

Conclusions

Time of acquisition of HCV infection is a major prognostic factor for hepatitis progression in the setting of renal transplantation. Immunosuppression was found to be determinant in the progression of HCV infection acquired peri‐ or post‐transplantation. High viral load seems to be crucial in the pathogenetic process.
Co‐generated fast pyrolysis biochar mitigates green‐house gas emissions and increases carbon sequestration in temperate soils
Authors: Stewart Catherine E. , Zheng Jiyong , Botte Jorin , Cotrufo M. Francesca
Published: September 2012

Char is a product of thermochemical conversion of biomass via pyrolysis, together with gas (syngas), liquid (bio‐oil), and heat. Fast pyrolysis is a promising process for bio‐oil generation, which leaves 10–30% of the original biomass as char. Char produced for soil application, is defined biochar (BC), and it may increase soil C storage, and reduce soil emissions of greenhouse gases (GHG), such as N2O and CH4 –potentially making fast pyrolysis bioenergy generation a C‐negative system. However, differences in production conditions (e.g., feedstock, pyrolysis temperature and speed, post handling, and storage conditions) influence the chemical properties of BC and its net effect when added to soils. Understanding if fast pyrolysis BC can increase C sequestration and reduce GHG emissions will enable full assessment of the economic value and environmental benefits of this form of bioenergy. We characterized a BC produced by fast pyrolysis for bio‐oil generation and examined GHG (CO2, N2O and CH4) efflux, C partitioning using δ13C, and soil C sequestration across four temperate soils and five BC rates; 0%, 1%, 5%, 10%, and 20% w/w. The fast pyrolysis process created a highly aromatic, low N, ash‐rich BC with a O : C ratio of 0.01, which we expected to be highly recalcitrant. Across soils, CO2 emissions increased linearly and N2O emissions decreased exponentially with increasing BC addition rates. Despite still being actively respired after 2 years, total BC‐derived C‐CO2 comprised less than the BC volatile C content (4%). Expressed as CO2 equivalents, CO2 was the primary GHG emitted (97.5%), followed by N2O. All GHG emissions were small compared to the total SOC sequestered in the BC. Fast pyrolysis produced a highly recalcitrant BC that sequestered C and reduced GHG emissions. The recovery and soil application of BC would contribute to a negative carbon balance for this form of bioenergy generation.
Estimation of skin phototypes with optical parameters: an experimental study using newly developed fibre optic detection device
Authors: Ries F. , Kapoustina V. , Kron A. , Fink A. , Rädle M.
Published: September 2012

Synopsis

In an experimental study (October 2010 Mannheim Germany) with 99 Caucasian volunteers, the skin colour (L*, a*, b*) and the reflectance spectra of human skin were compared to the Fitzpatrick's sun‐reactive skin photo types (SPT). For this purpose, the skin colour and the reflectance spectra of human skin were determined using non‐invasive method with a newly developed fibre optic detection device. The device, based on reflectance spectroscopy, was designed and optimized using a commercial optical analysis Software. By means of the measured spectra of scattered light, the colour values and the absorption spectra of the skin were calculated. Neither any of the L*, a*, b* colour values nor any of the parameters of the absorbance spectra can be used alone to assess the skin type properly. Therefore, an ordinal logistic regression analysis was performed, using the statistical computing software r, to correlate the skin types with the measured optical parameters. It turned out that the detection device combined with the extended statistical analysis gives a better estimate of skin type in respect of the measured optical parameters than a procedure with only L*, a*, b* colour values. Even with the extended methodology, the procedure gives only a rough estimation of the skin type.
Parasites and parallel divergence of the number of individual MHC alleles between sympatric three‐spined stickleback Gasterosteus aculeatus morphs in Iceland
Authors: Natsopoulou M. E. , Pálsson S. , Ólafsdóttir G. Á.
Published: September 2012

Two pairs of sympatric three‐spined stickleback Gasterosteus aculeatus morphs and two single morph populations inhabiting mud and lava or rocky benthic habitats in four Icelandic lakes were screened for parasites and genotyped for MHC class IIB diversity. Parasitic infection differed consistently between G. aculeatus from different benthic habitats. Gasterosteus aculeatus from the lava or rocky habitats were more heavily infected in all lakes. A parallel pattern was also found in individual MHC allelic variation with lava G. aculeatus morphs exhibiting lower levels of variation than the mud morphs. Evidence for selective divergence in MHC allele number is ambiguous but supported by two findings in addition to the parallel pattern observed. MHC allele diversity was not consistent with diversity reported at neutral markers (microsatellites) and in Þingvallavatn the most common number of alleles in each morph was associated with lower infection levels. In the Þingvallavatn lava morph, lower infection levels by the two most common parasites, Schistocephalus solidus and Diplostomum baeri, were associated with different MHC allele numbers.
Comparison of isogenic lines provides evidence that phenotypic plasticity is under genetic control in rainbow trout Oncorhynchus mykiss
Authors: Dupont‐Nivet M. , Robert‐Granié C. , Le Guillou S. , Tiquet F. , Quillet E.
Published: September 2012

Comparison of nine isogenic lines of rainbow trout Oncorhynchus mykiss kept in the same environment showed significant genetic determinism of phenotypic plasticity assessed through body mass measurements. Ranking of lines differed between two tested environments.
The effect of stocking with 0+ year age‐class Atlantic salmon Salmo salar fry: a case study from the River Bush, Northern Ireland
Authors: Kennedy R. J. , Crozier W. W. , Allen M.
Published: September 2012

An enhancement programme based on stocking 0+ year age‐class Atlantic salmon Salmo salar, conducted in the River Bush, Northern Ireland, U.K. over the period 1996–2005, was reviewed with reference to the performance and biological characteristics of wild fish. Wild ova to 0+ year fry (summer) survival was c. 8% with subsequent wild 0+ year fry‐to‐smolt survival c. 9%. Stocked unfed 0+ year juveniles gave c. 1% survival to smolt whilst fed 0+ year S. salar stocked in late summer exhibited survival at c. 5%. Stocking with unfed and fed fry contributed to increased smolt production and helped attain local management objectives between 2001 and 2005. Significant differences in biological characteristics were observed between wild and stocked‐origin fish. Wild‐smolt cohorts were dominated by 2+ year age‐class fish on the River Bush whilst smolts originating from fed fry mostly comprised younger 1+ year individuals. The mean mass of 1+ year smolts derived from stocked fed fry was significantly lower than that of wild 1+ year smolts, although these differences were not evident between older age classes. Differences in run timing between wild smolts and smolts derived from stocked fry were also apparent with the stocked‐origin fish tending to run earlier than wild fish. Although the stocking exercise was useful in terms of maximizing freshwater production, concerns over the quality of stocked‐origin recruits and the long term consequences for productivity are highlighted.
Working in partnership with parents: the experience and challenge of practice innovation in child and family health nursing
Authors: Fowler Cathrine , Rossiter Chris , Bigsby Margaret , Hopwood Nick , Lee Alison , Dunston Roger
Published: September 2012

Aims and objectives.  This study investigated what Family Partnership Model practice means in the day‐to‐day practice of child and family health nurses working with parents.

Background.  The Family Partnership Model has been widely implemented in child and family health services in Australia and New Zealand, with limited understanding of the implications for nursing practice.

Design.  A qualitative interpretive study design was used.

Method.  Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with 22 nurse participants, who had completed the Family Partnership Model training programme. Subsequent focus groups enabled these participants to validate the themes identified in the initial analysis and to confirm that the nurses concurred with the issues raised. Thematic content analysis produced rich descriptions and explanation of nurses’ experiences and perspectives.

Results.  Four themes emerged from the analysis: experience of changing practices, exploring with parents, challenging unhelpful constructions and a commitment to examining practice.

Conclusion.  Overall, the participants embraced the use of the Family Partnership Model, providing examples of change and increasing confidence in their approach to working with parents.

Relevance to clinical practice.  This study demonstrates that the effective utilisation of the Family Partnership Model in nursing practice is a more complex and dynamic process than simply embracing the model. There are significant challenges to be negotiated when implementing new ways of working with parents, particularly questioning existing dominant forms of practice for nurses, managers and wider health organisations, and their clients. This paper also raises issues about sustaining practice innovation, which extends beyond the best intent of individual nurses, requiring receptive organisational conditions and leadership.
The use of multi‐sensory interventions to manage dementia‐related behaviours in the residential aged care setting: a survey of one Australian state
Authors: Bauer Michael , Rayner Jo‐Anne , Koch Susan , Chenco Carol
Published: September 2012

Aims and objectives

To describe the use of multi‐sensory interventions in residential aged care services (RACS) for the management of dementia‐related behaviours in residential aged care in Victoria, Australia.

Background

The popularity of multi‐sensory interventions has spread worldwide, including for use in residential aged care, despite limited evidence to support their efficacy.

Design

This study reports the findings of the first stage of a two‐stage project that was undertaken to describe and evaluate the use of multi‐sensory interventions for the management of dementia‐related behaviours in all residential aged care facilities in Victoria, Australia.

Methods

A computer‐assisted telephone interview survey was developed and administered to residential aged care facilities in Victoria, Australia, to collect descriptive data on the use of multi‐sensory interventions for the management of dementia‐related behaviours.

Results

A diverse and eclectic range of multi‐sensory interventions are currently being used by residential aged care facilities. The findings suggest the use of multi‐sensory interventions are used in an ad hoc manner, and there is no universal definition of multi‐sensory interventions, little formal training for staff administering the interventions and no guideline for their use, nor evaluation of their impact on residents' behaviour.

Conclusion

Multi‐sensory interventions have been widely adopted for use in RACS in Victoria, Australia, and are currently being used without formal guidelines and little evidence to support their use in clinical practice.

Relevance to clinical practice

In the absence of a formal definition of what constitutes a multi‐sensory intervention, training for staff and careful assessment and monitoring of residents who receive multi‐sensory interventions, we recommend further research and development of policy and procedures to safe guard the use of multi‐sensory interventions for people with dementia.
Prevalence of anemia in Chinese nursing home older adults: Implication of age and renal impairment
Authors: Chan Tuen Ching , Yap Desmond Yat Hin , Shea Yat Fung , Luk James Ka Hay , Chan Felix Hon Wai , Chu Leung Wing
Published: September 2012

Aim:  There is little data regarding the prevalence and associated comorbidities of anemia in Chinese nursing home older adults. The objective of this study was to investigate the prevalence and associated comorbidities of anemia in Chinese nursing home older adults.

Methods:  We carried out a retrospective cross‐sectional study in nine nursing homes in Hong Kong. The hemoglobin (Hb) level, mean corpuscular volume (MCV), serum creatinine and comorbidities data of residents were examined. Older adults were regarded as anemic according to the World Health Organization criteria (Hb <13g/dL for men and <12g/dL for women). The glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was estimated by the Modification of Diet in Renal Disease Study (MDRD [Chinese‐adjusted]) equation. Patients with chronic renal impairment were defined as having eGFR <60 mL/min/1.73 m2.

Results:  A total of 812 residents were included (mean age 86.0 ± 7.6 years). The mean hemoglobin was 12.0 ± 1.8g/dL in men and 11.4 ± 1.6g/dL in women. The mean eGFR was 75.1 ± 31.7 mL/min/1.73 m2. A total of 67.0% of residents had anemia (70.5% in men and 65.2% in women). Anemic older adults were older and had a higher prevalence of renal impairment than non‐anemic older adults (P < 0.001). There was no significant difference between the two groups regarding the prevalence of other comorbidities. When stratified into different age groups, there were significant correlations between anemia and renal impairment in all subgroups (age ≤80 years, P < 0.05; age 81–90 years, P < 0.01; age >90 years, P < 0.05). The same correlation was found between normocytic anemia and renal impairment. Conversely, when stratified according to eGFR (≥60 mL/min/1.73 m2vs <60 mL/min/1.73 m2), we did not observe a significant correlation between anemia and age group.

Conclusion:  In conclusion, anemia is prevalent in Chinese nursing home residents and is strongly associated with renal impairment. Further studies of early identification and management of anemia with renal impairment are recommended in this population. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2013; 13: 591–596.
High parathyroid hormone, but not low vitamin D concentrations, expose elderly inpatients to hypertension
Authors: Mateus‐Hamdan Leyla , Beauchet Olivier , Bouvard Béatrice , Legrand Erick , Fantino Bruno , Annweiler Cédric
Published: September 2012

Aim:  Serum parathyroid hormone (PTH) and 25‐hydroxyvitamin D (25OHD) concentrations might contribute to blood pressure (BP) levels. Mixed results in previous literature could be due to the failure to consider both these hormones concurrently, despite their long‐known relationship. Our objective was to examine the association of serum intact PTH and 25OHD concentrations with BP levels amongst older inpatients, while accounting for each other.

Methods:  The participants were 284 Caucasian older inpatients with no suspicion of primary hyperparathyroidism (mean age 85.87 ± 5.90 years; 65.8% female) admitted to the geriatric acute care unit of Angers University Hospital, France. They were divided into two groups according to the existence of hypertension (i.e. systolic blood pressure [SBP] >140 mmHg, or diastolic blood pressure [DBP] >90 mmHg). Age, sex, numbers of chronic diseases and of drugs taken daily, use of antihypertensive or corticosteroid drugs and of calcium supplements/vitamin D, thyroid‐stimulating hormone and albumin concentrations, creatinine clearance, and season tested were used as covariables.

Results:  Hypertensive participants (n = 106) had higher intact PTH concentrations than normotensive patients (P = 0.044). There was a positive linear association of BP with intact PTH concentrations (adjusted β = 0.08, P = 0.015 for SBP; adjusted β = 0.05, P = 0.044 for DBP), but not with vitamin D. Serum intact PTH concentration, unlike 25OHD, was associated with hypertension (adjusted OR 1.01, P = 0.038).

Conclusions:  Irrespective of 25OHD, PTH was associated with hypertension by increasing both SBP and DBP. Geriatr Gerontol 2013; 13: 783–791.
The relationship between placebo alcohol and affect: Motives for drinking
Authors: Bailey Rachel C. , Baillie Andrew J.
Published: September 2012

Introduction and Aims.

Although alcohol is often used in an attempt to alleviate negative affect, alcohol oftentimes exacerbates depressive symptoms. Therefore the relationship between alcohol and affect, and the role of motives for drinking remain unclear. The present study hypothesised that placebo alcohol would blunt affective responding and that desire to drink would increase in individuals who expected alcohol to help them cope after a negative experience. The present study also explored whether motives and reasons for drinking altered after a negative experience.

Design and Methods.

Participants (36 first‐year psychology students and 41 community members) were randomly assigned to one of four experimental groups, being soft drink or placebo alcohol, neutral or negative mood induction.

Results.

Two repeated measures analyses indicated that placebo alcohol did not significantly blunt affective responding after the negative mood induction. T‐tests showed that desire to drink did not significantly increase post negative mood induction for participants who endorsed coping motives for drinking. However, interestingly coping‐depression and enhancement motives decreased after negative mood induction, and participants misattributed the majority of their mood to other life events.

Discussion and Conclusions.

The findings indicate that motives for drinking are amendable with prior learning, providing support for expectancy challenge procedures. The study also provides some evidence for alcohol's effect on emotional lability.
Job satisfaction and leaving intentions of Slovak and Czech nurses
Authors: Gurková E. , Soósová M.S. , Haroková S. , Žiaková K. , Šerfelová R. , Zamboriová M.
Published: September 2012

GURKOVÁ E., SOÓSOVÁ M.S., HAROKOVÁ S., ŽIAKOVÁ K., ŠERFELOVÁ R. & ZAMBORIOVÁ M. (2013) Job satisfaction and leaving intentions of Slovak and Czech nurses. International Nursing Review60, 112–121

Introduction:  Shortages of healthcare workers in Czech and Slovak Republics are associated with factors such as raised migration of professional nurses, decreased number of nurse graduates and ageing workforce. The specific problem is migration of Slovak nurses to the Czech Republic, motivated by higher salaries.

Aim:  The study aims to investigate the relationship between turnover intentions and job satisfaction among Czech and Slovak nurses and to determine how the related variables differ between the two groups.

Design:  A cross‐sectional descriptive survey was used to investigate the intended turnover and job satisfaction relationship among 1055 hospital nurses recruited from the Czech and Slovak Republics.

Methods:  Data were collected using a set of questionnaires that included questions regarding leaving intentions of nurses and The McCloskey/Mueller Satisfaction Scale; three further sets of questionnaires were used. For determining the associations between variables, the Pearson correlations and multiple regression analyses were used. For group comparisons, one‐way and multifactorial analysis of variance and Pearson's Chi‐square test procedure were performed.

Findings:  The intention to leave the workplace, the nursing profession and work abroad were predicted by the levels of satisfaction of nurses with their control/responsibility and scheduling. Czech nurses reported higher satisfaction in all subscales of the job satisfaction and less frequent intention to work abroad. An inverse relationship was confirmed between age and turnover intentions. Job satisfaction was positively associated with age and years of experience. Job satisfaction differed by all of three turnover intentions.

Conclusion:  Results highlight the importance of understanding nurses' leaving intentions and related factors and their impact on nurses' lives in both countries so that health care organizations can implement effective strategies to improve the retention of their nursing workforce.
Ethical Issues Related to Screening for Preeclampsia
Authors: Jørgensen Jennifer M. , Hedley Paula L. , Gjerris Mickey , Christiansen Michael
Published: September 2012

The implementation of new methods of treating and preventing disease raises many question of both technical and moral character. Currently, many studies focus on developing a screening test for preeclampsia (PE), a disease complicating 2–8% of pregnancies, potentially causing severe consequences for pregnant women and their fetuses. The purpose is to develop a test that can identify pregnancies at high risk for developing PE sufficiently early in pregnancy to allow for prophylaxis. However, the question of implementing a screening test for PE does not only involve an evaluation of technical feasibility and clinical efficacy, it also requires an analysis of how the test influences the conditions and choices for those tested. This study evaluates state‐of‐the‐art techniques for preeclampsia screening in an ethical framework, pointing out the central areas of moral relevance within the context of such screening activity. Furthermore, we propose ethical guidelines that a screening programme for PE should meet in order to become an uncontroversial addition to prenatal health care.
Children Trust a Consensus Composed of Outgroup Members—But Do Not Retain That Trust
Authors: Chen Eva E. , Corriveau Kathleen H. , Harris Paul L.
Published: September 2012

Children prefer to learn from informants in consensus with one another. However, no research has examined whether this preference exists across cultures, and whether the race of the informants impacts that preference. In 2 studies, one hundred thirty‐six 4‐ to 7‐year‐old European American and Taiwanese children demonstrated a systematic preference for a consensus. Nevertheless, the initial strength and persistence of that preference depended on the racial composition of the consensus. Children's preference for consensus members belonging to the same race as themselves persisted even when only one consensus member remained to provide information. When the consensus consisted of different‐race informants, preference for the consensus was initially apparent but lost when only one member from the consensus remained with the dissenting informant.
The sacroiliac joint: an overview of its anatomy, function and potential clinical implications
Authors: Vleeming A. , Schuenke M. D. , Masi A. T. , Carreiro J. E. , Danneels L. , Willard F. H.
Published: September 2012

This article focuses on the (functional) anatomy and biomechanics of the pelvic girdle and specifically the sacroiliac joints (SIJs). The SIJs are essential for effective load transfer between the spine and legs. The sacrum, pelvis and spine, and the connections to the arms, legs and head, are functionally interrelated through muscular, fascial and ligamentous interconnections. A historical overview is presented on pelvic and especially SIJ research, followed by a general functional anatomical overview of the pelvis. In specific sections, the development and maturation of the SIJ is discussed, and a description of the bony anatomy and sexual morphism of the pelvis and SIJ is debated. The literature on the SIJ ligaments and innervation is discussed, followed by a section on the pathology of the SIJ. Pelvic movement studies are investigated and biomechanical models for SIJ stability analyzed, including examples of insufficient versus excessive sacroiliac force closure.
Vascular adaptations induced by 6 weeks WBV resistance exercise training
Authors: Weber Tobias , Beijer Åsa , Rosenberger André , Mulder Edwin , Yang Pengfei , Schönau Eckhard , Bloch Wilhelm , Rittweger Jörn
Published: September 2012

Background

The impact of whole‐body vibration (WBV) upon the cardiovascular system is receiving increasing attention. Despite numerous studies addressing the acute cardiovascular effects of WBV training, very little is known regarding long‐term adaptations in healthy humans.

Methods

A 6‐week training study, with a 70 days follow‐up was designed to compare resistive exercise with or without super‐imposed whole‐body vibrations. Arterial diameter, intima media thickness and flow‐mediated dilation (FMD) were assessed by ultrasonography in the superficial femoral artery (SFA), the brachial (BA) and the carotid arteries (CA).

Results

SFA resting diameter was increased from 6·22 mm (SD = 0·69 mm) at baseline to 6·52 mm (SD = 0·74 mm) at the end of the training period (P = 0·03) with no difference between groups (P = 0·48). Arterial wall thickness was significantly reduced by 4·3% (SD = 11%) in the CA only (P = 0·04). FMD was not affected by any of the interventions and in any of the investigated arteries.

Conclusion

To the best of our knowledge, this has been the first study to show that the superposition of vibration upon conventional resistance exercise does not have a specific effect upon long‐term vascular adaptation in asymptomatic humans. Our findings seem to be at variance with the findings observed in a bed‐rest setting. One possible explanation could be that the independently saturable effects of flow‐mediated versus acceleration‐related endothelial shear stresses on arterial structure and function differ between ambulatory and bed‐rest conditions.
Endemic tenebrionids (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae) from the Patagonian steppe: a preliminary identification of areas of micro‐endemism and richness hotspots
Authors: Carrara Rodolfo , Flores Gustavo E.
Published: September 2012

Based on data from sixteen museum collections we listed the endemic tenebrionids that inhabit the Patagonian steppe. Then, according to the geographical location of the species, we identified areas of micro‐endemism and hotspots within this biogeographic province. Results showed 115 endemic tenebrionid species from the Patagonian steppe, 25 areas of micro‐endemism and five hotspots. We used these outcomes to identify areas of importance for conservation. Based on the comparison with other biogeographic provinces, we suggest that the Patagonian steppe constitutes a center of high endemism for tenebrionids. We hypothesize that the isolation of the Patagonian steppe from other arid areas would cause the high occurrence of endemism. In addition, we suggest processes that could be responsible for the origin of the areas of micro‐endemism and hotspots identified in this work.