bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Perceived Stress, Multimorbidity, and Risk for Hospitalizations for Ambulatory Care–sensitive Conditions
Authors: Prior Anders , Vestergaard Mogens , Davydow Dimitry S. , Larsen Karen K. , Ribe Anette R. , Fenger-Grøn Morten
Published: August 2016

Background:

Psychiatric disorders are associated with an increased risk for ambulatory care–sensitive condition (ACSC)-related hospitalizations, but it remains unknown whether this holds for individuals with nonsyndromic stress that is more prevalent in the general population.

Objectives:

To determine whether perceived stress is associated with ACSC-related hospitalizations and rehospitalizations, and posthospitalization 30-day mortality.

Research Design and Measures:

Population-based cohort study with 118,410 participants from the Danish National Health Survey 2010, which included data on Cohen’s Perceived Stress Scale, followed from 2010 to 2014, combined with individual-level national register data on hospitalizations and mortality. Multimorbidity was assessed using health register information on diagnoses and drug prescriptions within 39 condition categories.

Results:

Being in the highest perceived stress quintile was associated with a 2.13-times higher ACSC-related hospitalization risk (95% CI, 1.91, 2.38) versus being in the lowest stress quintile after adjusting for age, sex, follow-up time, and predisposing conditions. The associated risk attenuated to 1.48 (95% CI, 1.32, 1.67) after fully adjusting for multimorbidity and socioeconomic factors. Individuals with above reference stress levels experienced 1703 excess ACSC-related hospitalizations (18% of all). A dose-response relationship was observed between perceived stress and the ACSC-related hospitalization rate regardless of multimorbidity status. Being in the highest stress quintile was associated with a 1.26-times insignificantly increased adjusted risk (95% CI, 0.79, 2.00) for ACSC rehospitalizations and a 1.43-times increased adjusted risk (95% CI, 1.13, 1.81) of mortality within 30 days of admission.

Conclusions:

Elevated perceived stress levels are associated with increased risk for ACSC-related hospitalization and poor short-term prognosis.
Patterns of Hospitalization Risk for Women Surviving Into Very Old Age
Authors: Dolja-Gore Xenia , Harris Melissa L. , Kendig Hal , Byles Julie E.
Published: August 2016

Background:

By 2050, adults aged 80 years and over will represent around 20% of the global population. Little is known about how adults surviving into very old age use hospital services over time.

Objective:

The objective of the study was to examine patterns of hospital usage over a 10-year period for women who were aged 84 to 89 in 2010 and examine factors associated with increased use.

Methods:

Survey data from 1936 women from the 1921 to 1926 cohort of the Australian Longitudinal Study on Women’s Health were matched with the state-based Admitted Patients Data Collection. Hospital use profiles were determined using repeated measures latent class analysis.

Results:

Four latent class trajectories were identified. One-quarter of the sample were at low risk of hospitalization, while 20.6% demonstrated increased risk of hospitalization and a further 38.1% had moderate hospitalization risk over time. Only 16.8% of the sample was classified as having high hospitalization risk. Correlates of hospital use for very old women differed according to hospital use class and were contingent on the timing of exposure (ie, short-term or long-term).

Conclusions:

Despite the perception that older adults place a significant burden on health care systems, the majority of women demonstrated relatively low hospital use over an extended period, even in the presence of chronic health conditions. High hospitalization risk was found to be concentrated among a small minority of these long-term survivors. The findings suggest the importance of service planning and treatment regimes that take account of the diverse trajectories of hospital use into and through advanced old age.
Race/Ethnicity and End-of-Life Care Among Veterans
Authors: Kutney-Lee Ann , Smith Dawn , Thorpe Joshua , del Rosario Cindy , Ibrahim Said , Ersek Mary
Published: August 2016

Background:

Few studies have examined comprehensively racial/ethnic variations in quality of end-of-life care.

Objective:

Examine end-of-life care quality received by Veterans and their families, comparing racial/ethnic minorities to nonminorities.

Research Design:

This is a retrospective, cross-sectional analysis of chart review and survey data.

Subjects:

Nearly all deaths in 145 Veterans Affairs Medical Centers nationally (n=94,697) in addition to Bereaved Family Survey (BFS) data (n=51,859) from October 2009 to September 2014.

Measures:

Outcomes included 15 BFS items and 4 indicators of high-quality end-of-life care, including receipt of a palliative care consult, chaplain visit, bereavement contact, and death in hospice/palliative care unit. Veteran race/ethnicity was measured via chart review and defined as non-Hispanic white, non-Hispanic black, Hispanic, or other.

Results:

In adjusted models, no differences were observed by race/ethnicity in receipt of a palliative care consult or death in a hospice unit. Although black Veterans were less likely than white Veterans to receive a chaplain visit, Hispanic Veterans were more likely than white Veterans to receive a chaplain visit and to receive a bereavement contact. Less favorable outcomes for racial/ethnic minorities were noted on several BFS items. In comparison with family members of white Veterans, families of minority Veterans were less likely to report excellent overall care, and this difference was largest for black Veterans (48% vs. 62%).

Conclusions:

Bereaved family members of minority Veterans generally rate the quality of end-of-life care less favorably than those of white Veterans. Family perceptions are critical to the evaluation of equity and quality of end-of-life care.
Sex, Age, and Prevalence of Pediatric Irritable Bowel Syndrome and Constipation in Colombia
Authors: Lu Peter L. , Velasco‐Benítez Carlos A. , Saps Miguel
Published: August 2016

Objectives:

Our objective was to evaluate the role of sex and age in the prevalence of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and functional constipation (FC) in Colombian children. We hypothesized that the prevalence of IBS and FC would be higher in female adolescents than in younger female children, with no corresponding difference in boys.

Methods:

We performed a cross‐sectional study of Colombian children. Subjects completed the Questionnaire on Pediatric Gastrointestinal Symptoms—Rome III. Subjects were divided into child and adolescent age groups using 2 different cutoffs. Cutoffs were established at 12 and 13 years (CH‐1 = 8–12 years, AD‐1 = 13–18 years, CH‐2 = 8–13 years, AD‐2 = 14–18 years).

Results:

A total of 3891 subjects (47.0% F, mean age 12.0 years) participated. One hundred eighty‐seven (4.8%) met criteria for IBS. There was no difference in sex composition between CH‐1/AD‐1 (56.0%, 43.5% F) and CH‐2/AD‐2 (53.4%, 46.8% F). Prevalence of IBS among girls was higher in CH‐1 than that in AD‐1 (6.4%, 3.7%, P < 0.05) and overall prevalence was higher in CH‐1 than in AD‐1 (5.4%, 4.0%, P < 0.05). Four hundred ninety‐four (12.7%) children met criteria for FC. There was no difference in sex composition between CH‐1/AD‐1 (47.6%, 48.7% F) and CH‐2/AD‐2 (47.7%, 49.0% F). Prevalence of FC among girls was higher in CH‐1/CH‐2 (14.6%, 14.1%) than in AD‐1/AD‐2 (10.4%, P < 0.01; 9.9%, P < 0.05). Prevalence of FC overall was higher in CH‐1/CH‐2 (14.5%, 14.0%) than in AD‐1/AD‐2 (10.0%, P < 0.0001; 9.3%, P < 0.0001).

Conclusions:

We did not find a significant female predominance among Colombian children with IBS or FC. Contrary to our hypothesis, IBS and FC prevalence was generally higher in younger children compared with adolescents regardless of sex.
Outcome Measures for Persons With Moderate to Severe Traumatic Brain Injury: Recommendations From the American Physical Therapy Association Academy of Neurologic Physical Therapy TBI EDGE Task Force
Authors: McCulloch Karen L. , de Joya Anna Lisa , Hays Kaitlin , Donnelly Erin , Johnson Tammie Keller , Nirider Coby D. , Roth Heidi , Saliga Sue , Ward Irene
Published: August 2016

Background and Purpose:

The use of standardized outcome measures (OMs) is essential in assessing the effectiveness of physical therapy (PT) interventions. The purposes of this article are (1) to describe the process used by the TBI EDGE task force to assess the psychometrics and clinical utility of OMs used with individuals with moderate to severe traumatic brain injury (TBI); (2) to describe the consensus recommendations for OM use in clinical practice, research, and professional (entry-level) PT education; and (3) to make recommendations for future work.

Methods:

An 8-member task force used a modified Delphi process to develop recommendations on the selection of OMs for individuals with TBI. A 4-point rating scale was used to make recommendations based on practice setting and level of ambulation. Recommendations for appropriateness for research use and inclusion in entry-level education were also provided.

Results:

The TBI EDGE task force reviewed 88 OMs across the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) domains: 15 measured body functions/structure only, 21 measured activity only, 23 measured participation only, and 29 OMs covered more than 1 ICF domain.

Discussion and Conclusions:

Recommendations made by the TBI EDGE task force provide clinicians, researchers, and educators with guidance for the selection of OMs. The use of these recommendations may facilitate identification of appropriate OMs in the population with moderate to severe TBI. TBI EDGE task force recommendations can be used by clinicians, researchers, and educators when selecting OMs for their respective needs. Future efforts to update the recommendations are warranted in order to ensure that recommendations remain current and applicable.

Video Abstract available for more insights from the authors (see Supplemental Digital Content 1, http://links.lww.com/JNPT/A140).
A Tandem Cycling Program: Feasibility and Physical Performance Outcomes in People With Parkinson Disease
Authors: McGough Ellen L. , Robinson Cynthia A. , Nelson Mark D. , Houle Raymond , Fraser Gabriell , Handley Leslie , Jones Emilie R. , Amtmann Dagmar , Kelly Valerie E.
Published: August 2016

Background and Purpose:

Individuals with Parkinson disease (PD) have motor and nonmotor impairments that interfere with exercise participation. The purpose of this study was to examine the feasibility and physical performance outcomes of a community-based indoor tandem cycling program that was designed to facilitate a higher cadence, consistency, and intensity of training.

Methods:

Forty-one participants with mild to moderate PD were enrolled. A high-cadence cycling protocol using mechanically augmented (or forced) exercise on a tandem bicycle was adapted for our program. Participants cycled 3 times per week for 10 weeks. Feasibility measures included program retention, attendance, and adverse events, as well as the ability to reach training goals for heart rate (HR) and cadence. Physical performance outcomes included the Berg Balance Scale (BBS), Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB), Five-Times-Sit-to-Stand (FTSTS) Test, Timed Up and Go (TUG), and gait parameters during usual and fast-paced walking.

Results:

Program feasibility was demonstrated with a high attendance rate (96%) and retention rate (100%). There were no adverse events. The majority of participants reached their exercise training goals for target HR (87%) and cadence (95%). Statistically significant physical performance improvement (P < 0.05) was observed across domains of gait, balance, and mobility, suggesting a slowing or reversal of functional decline as a result of this cycling program.

Discussion and Conclusion:

Program feasibility and improved physical performance outcomes were demonstrated in individuals with mild to moderate PD participating in a community-based indoor tandem cycling program.

Video Abstract available for more insights from the authors (see supplemental digital content 1, http://links.lww.com/JNPT/A146).
Patching for Diplopia Contraindicated in Patients with Brain Injury?
Authors: Houston Kevin E. , Barrett A. M.
Published: August 2016

Purpose

Patching for double vision is a common palliative treatment for head-trauma patients with acquired strabismus when prisms are not feasible.

Methods

We review literature on spatial neglect and discuss possible effects of monocular occlusion on spatial attention.

Results

Patching the left eye has been shown to worsen spatial judgments in some brain-injured patients with left neglect by inhibiting the right superior colliculus further impairing contralateral leftward orienting (the Sprague Effect).

Conclusions

Because more peripheral parts of the visual field increasingly project to the contralateral superior colliculus with the temporal crescent being entirely contralateral, avoiding patching of the temporal crescent was advised, and in most cases can be achieved by taping off the spectacle lens and avoiding an elastic eye patch.
Carotid Intima-Media Thickness Manual Measurements
Authors: Plasencia-Martínez Juana M. , García-Santos José María , Lozano-Herrero Jesús , Hernández-Vidal M. Julia
Published: August 2016

Purpose

The aim of this study was to assess the intraoperator and interoperator agreement for manual measurements of intima-media thickness (IMT) performed under a strict carotid ultrasound technical protocol.

Methods

Two blinded experienced operators independently performed an ultrasound examination at the distal common carotid of 242 subjects in the same patient's position, diastolic phase, probe type, zooming, and depth. Thirty-six subjects were reevaluated in another time point. Three different-angle manual measurements (IMTindiv) were obtained. Interoperator agreements for each IMTindiv, and their mean (IMTmean) and maximum (IMTmax) values, were assessed with the intraclass correlation coefficient and Bland-Altman analysis. Intraoperator agreement was tested taking advantage of the second ultrasound round in 36 subjects.

Results

IMTmean agreements (intraoperator, 0.665–0.913; interoperator, 0.856–0.897) were higher than IMTmax (intraoperator, 0.435–0.793; interoperator, 0.631–0.718) and any IMTindiv (intraoperator, 0.355–0.676; interoperator, 0.590–0.717). Despite the small systematic error for IMTmean (intraoperator, ≤0.03; interoperator, ≤0.02 mm), at best of times, the sampling error size reached at least 0.28 and 0.25 mm for intraoperator and interoperator agreements, respectively, and was never less than 0.13 mm.

Conclusions

Although IMTmean agreement is excellent under a strict protocol, limits of agreement might be too wide to consider carotid ultrasound a robust cardiovascular risk biomarker.
Endoscopic-Laparoscopic Cholecystolithotomy in Treatment of Cholecystolithiasis Compared With Traditional Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy
Authors: Zhang Yang , Peng Jian , Li Xiaoli , Liao Mingmei
Published: August 2016

The study aimed to compare the application values of endoscopic-laparoscopic cholecystolithotomy (ELC) and laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) for patients with cholecystolithiasis. It did a retrospective analysis of 107 patients with cholecystolithiasis who underwent ELC and 144 patients with cholecystolithiasis who underwent LC. There is no significant difference in operating time and expenses when comparing ELC with LC (P>0.05). ELC showed significantly less blood loss during operation compared with LC (P<0.01). Shortened exhaust time (P<0.05) and hospital stay (P<0.01) were present in patients who underwent ELC. Moreover, ELC showed decreased occurrence rate of dyspepsia and diarrhea in comparison with LC (P<0.01). The stone recurrence rate of ELC was 16.67%. ELC decreased the recurrence of stone in common bile duct in comparison with LC. The contractile function of gallbladder was close to normal (P<0.05), and the thickness of gallbladder wall significantly decreased (P<0.001). Patients who underwent ELC showed less digestive symptom, good recovery, and low stone recurrence compared with those who underwent LC.
Predicting Outcome in Postanoxic Coma: Are Ten EEG Electrodes Enough?
Authors: Tjepkema-Cloostermans Marleen C. , Hofmeijer Jeannette , Hom Harold W. , Bosch Frank H. , van Putten Michel J. A. M.
Published: August 2016

Introduction:

Increasing evidence supports that early EEG recordings reliably contribute to outcome prediction in comatose patients with postanoxic encephalopathy. As postanoxic encephalopathy typically results in generalized EEG abnormalities, spatial resolution of a small number of electrodes is likely sufficient, which will reduce set-up time. Here, the authors compare a reduced and a 21-channel EEG for outcome prediction.

Methods:

EEG recordings from 142 prospectively collected patients with postanoxic encephalopathy were reassessed by two independent reviewers using a reduced (10 electrodes) bipolar montage. Classification and prognostic accuracy were compared with the full (21 electrodes) montage. The full montage consensus was considered Gold Standard.

Results:

Sixty-seven patients (47%) had good outcome. The agreement between the individual reviewers using the reduced montage and the Gold Standard score was good (κ = 0.75–0.79). The interobserver agreement was not affected by reducing the number of electrodes (κ = 0.78 for the reduced montage vs. 0.71 for the full montage). An isoelectric, low-voltage, or burst-suppression with identical bursts pattern at 24 hours invariably predicted poor outcome in both montages, with similar prognostic accuracy. A diffusely slowed or normal EEG pattern at 12 hours was associated with good outcome in both montages.

Conclusions:

Reducing the number of electrodes from 21 to 10 does not affect EEG classification or prognostic accuracy in patients with postanoxic coma.
Modulation of Electrotonic Coupling in the Inferior Olive by Inhibitory and Excitatory Inputs: Integration in the Glomerulus
Authors: De Gruijl Jornt R. , Sokol Piotr A. , Negrello Mario , De Zeeuw Cris I.
Published: August 2016

Dendritic spines in glomeruli of the inferior olive are coupled by gap junctions and receive both inhibitory and excitatory inputs, yet the function of this configuration remains to be elucidated. In this issue ofNeuron, Lefler et al. (2014) show that the GABAergic input from the cerebellar nuclei to neurons of the inferior olive dynamically affects both their coupling and subthreshold oscillations for short periods, while Mathy et al. (2014) and Turecek et al. (2014) show that the glutamatergic input to the olivary neurons can instruct plasticity of coupled dendrites in the long-term. The data sets from all three papers can be reconciled when put together in a model of the neuropil comprising the characteristic olivary glomeruli.
A conceptual framework for understanding resilience of construction SMEs to extreme weather events
Authors: Wedawatta Gayan , Ingirige Bingunath
Published: August 2016

Purpose

Small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs), which form a significant portion in many economies, are some of the most vulnerable to the impact of extreme weather events (EWEs). This is of particular importance to the construction industry, as an overarching majority of construction companies are SMEs who account for the majority of employment and income generation within the industry. In the UK, previous research has identified construction SMEs as some of the worst affected by EWEs. The paper aims to discuss these issues.

Design/methodology/approach

Given the recent occurrences of EWEs and predictions suggesting increases in both the intensity and frequency of EWEs in the future, improving the resilience of construction SMEs is vital for achieving a resilient construction industry. A conceptual framework is first developed which is then populated and expanded based on empirical evidence. Positioned within a pragmatic research philosophy, case study research strategy was adopted as the overall research strategy in undertaking this investigation.

Findings

Based on the findings of two in-depth case studies of construction SMEs, a framework was developed to represent EWE resilience of construction SMEs, where resilience was seen as a collective effect of vulnerability, coping strategies, and coping capacities of SMEs, characteristics of the EWE and the wider economic climate.

Originality/value

The paper provides an original contribution towards the overarching agenda of the resilience of SMEs, and policy making in the area of EWE risk management by presenting a novel conceptual framework depicting the resilience of medium sized construction companies.
Measuring eco-roof mitigation on flash floods via GIS simulation
Authors: Liu Chunlu , Li Yan
Published: August 2016

Purpose

The rapid and ongoing expansion of urbanised impervious areas could lead to more frequent flood inundation in urban flood-prone regions. Nowadays, urban flood inundation induced by rainstorm is an expensive natural disaster in many countries. In order to reduce the flooding risk, eco-roof systems (or green roof systems) could be considered as an effective mechanism of mitigating flooding disasters through their rainwater retention capability. However, there is still a lack of examining the stormwater management tool. The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the effects on flooding disaster from extensive green roofs.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on geographical information system (GIS) simulation, this research presents a frame of assessing eco-roof impacts on urban flash floods. The approach addresses both urban rainfall-runoff and underground hydrologic models for traditional impervious and green roofs. Deakin University’s Geelong Waurn Ponds campus is chosen as a study case. GIS technologies are then utilised to visualise and analyse the effects on flood inundation from surface properties of building roofs.

Findings

The results reveal that the eco-roof systems generate varying degrees of mitigation of urban flood inundation with different return period storms.

Originality/value

Although the eco-roof technology is considered as an effective stormwater management tool, it is not commonly adopted and examined in urban floods. This study will bring benefits to urban planners for raising awareness of hazard impacts and to construction technicians for considering disaster mitigation via roof technologies. The approach proposed here could be used for the disaster mitigation in future urban planning.
Why every organization needs to become more brain-savvy
Authors: Scarlett Hilary
Published: August 2016

Purpose

This paper aims to set out why every organization and every leader would benefit from understanding more about the brain and what helps it to perform at its best. It provides some examples of what leaders would benefit from knowing and touches on some applied neuroscience research conducted with leaders in four organizations.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper sets out two challenges facing all organizations: improving productivity while also promoting mental and emotional wellbeing at work. It touches on research conducted with leaders in four organizations exploring the impact of learning about the brain on their ability to lead others.

Findings

The paper suggests that leaders who have a better understanding of the brain are better equipped to improve productivity in the organization and to promote emotional and mental well-being at work.

Originality/value

The paper sets out why every organization needs to teach leaders, managers, all employees about the brain and what helps it to perform at its best. It provides some examples of what knowledge people would benefit from acquiring. It shares some research conducted into applying neuroscience in the workplace.
How to keep your best people: develop a “level 4” mindset in your line managers
Authors: Hill Terry
Published: August 2016

Purpose

This purpose of the paper is to highlight the disturbing incidence of disengagement in the modern workplace. By highlighting why professionals leave their jobs, the author aims to change how managers think about motivation. Only then can they get the best out of their staff and retain their best employees.

Design/methodology/approach

The author uses his own experience of performance coaching, management, and leading without formal authority. The author critically evaluates classic motivational theories, preferring some more enlightened and recent research.

Findings

People leave managers not jobs. Disengagement results from faulty assumptions about what drives today’s professionals. Personal values or emotive needs matter much more than “extrinsic” rewards such as money and promotion. So the problems will not be solved by “making the carrots crunchier and the sticks sharper”; a new mindset is needed. While powerful and more or less universal motivators exist, every individual is different. However, uncovering what really matters can be very straightforward indeed. There is a need to be proactive and curious about what really drives the staff rather than wait till the best people tell the staff at the exit interview.

Originality/value

The author uses a real-life example to show what really happens under the surface. The author shows what is involved in adopting a “higher level” mindset and the resulting approach that might be taken with the people. Motivation mastery can be easier than what is thought about.
Reducing employee learning and development costs: the use of massive open online courses (MOOC)
Authors: Ong David , Jambulingam Manimekalai
Published: August 2016

Purpose

This paper discusses the role of online learning, in particular the use of massive open online courses (MOOC), in reducing costs related to employee training and development. Businesses these days are facing escalating costs of doing business, and senior management teams are also looking for areas of cost reduction and savings within their organizations. The adoption of MOOC enables cost savings in regard to employee training and developments.

Design/methodology/approach

The contents of this paper are of the authors’ personal experience in using online learning and evidence gathered from available literature.

Findings

Several large organizations are already using MOOC to replace or complement their traditional training program. One major benefit of using MOOC for employee training and development programs is the potential for huge cost savings for employee training.

Practical Implications

Traditional employee training programs need to be reviewed in view of the vast development in internet technologies. The internet and the latest technology devices can be fully utilized to facilitate employee training and developments, thus resulting in overall cost savings.

Originality/value

This paper presents the operationalization of MOOC in organizations for training and development. The benefits and downsides of adopting MOOC in training and development are also discussed in this paper.
Acquisition and retention of learning: use of stories in executive development program
Authors: Jain Kamal Kishore
Published: August 2016

Purpose

The purpose of the paper is to examine the role of stories in the acquisition and retention of learning over a longer period in case of adult learners over 25 years in age. It compares recall of stories over concepts in two time frames and thus tries to measure the decay in memory.

Design/methodology/approach

The study was conducted on the participants of executive development programs (EDP) conducted by a premier business school of India between April 2014 and March 2015. Participants who have attended a session on leadership conducted by the author, as a part of their EDP, were selected for the study. A total of 259 participants responded, of which 105 belonged to time frame 1 having attended the program between three and nine months, and 154 belonged to time frame 2 having attended the program more than nine months but less than 15 months of the date of data collection.

Findings

Even after a gap of more than three months, 75 per cent of participants were able to recall two or more stories, whereas only 50 per cent of the respondents could recall two or more issues; 95 per cent of them could identify one story and its clear linkage with the issue discussed. A comparative study of decay in memory in recalling issues over stories in two time frames reveals that decay in issues was between two and four times of stories.

Research limitations/implications

To argue about greater retention value of learning, a comparative study of sessions conducted on the same theme with the use of story and without the use of story would be useful. A further research would also be useful to study whether improved recall translates into any change in behavior.

Practical implications

The study is useful for trainers, as well as for corporate.

Originality/value

The study for the first time has captured the retention of learning over a longer period and in case of adult learners over 25 years in age. No study has captured decay of memory in recalling stories over issues in two time frames.
An exploratory study of the relationship between psychosocial hazard and ambulatory physiological response in higher education employees
Authors: Campbell Thomas George , Westbury Tony , Davison Richard , Florida-James Geraint
Published: August 2016

Purpose

As exposure to psychosocial hazard at work represents a substantial risk factor for employee health in many modern occupations, being able to accurately assess how employees cope with their working environment is crucial. The workplace is generally accepted as being a dynamic environment, therefore, consideration should be given to the interaction between employees and the acute environmental characteristics of their workplace. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the effects of both acute demand and chronic work-related psychosocial hazard upon employees through ambulatory assessment of heart rate variability and blood pressure.

Design/methodology/approach

A within-subjects repeated measures design was used to investigate the relationship between exposure to work-related psychosocial hazard and ambulatory heart rate variability and blood pressure in a cohort of higher education employees. Additionally the effect of acute variation in perceived work-related demand was investigated.

Findings

Two dimensions of the Management Standards were found to demonstrate an association with heart rate variability; more hazardous levels of “demand” and “relationships” were associated with decreased standard deviation of the normal-to-normal interval. Significant changes in blood pressure and indices of heart rate variability were observed with increased acute demand.

Originality/value

This is the first attempt to combine the Health and Safety Management Standards Indicator Tool with physiological assessment of employees. The results provide evidence of associations between scores on the indicator tool and ambulatory heart rate variability as well as demonstrating that variation in acute perceived work-related demand is associated with alterations to autonomic and cardiovascular function. This has implications not only for employee health and workplace design but also for future studies employing ambulatory physiological monitoring.
Centralization and the success of ERP implementation
Authors: Nandi Madhavi Latha , Kumar Ajith
Published: August 2016

Purpose

Centralization, which indicates distribution of decision-making power in organizations, is well-discussed in innovation literature as one of the influencing factors of innovation implementation. Motivated by a gap in enterprise resource planning (ERP) research, the purpose of this paper is to investigate the influence of centralization on the success of ERP implementation.

Design/methodology/approach

Centralization is characterized twofold: policy-related centralization (PRC) and work-related centralization (WRC). ERP implementation success is captured in terms of user acceptance and the use of the ERP system. Using organizational innovation theory, six hypotheses relating centralization, ERP implementation success, and organization size are built and tested using data gathered from 51 Indian organizations that implemented ERP. The data are analyzed using partial least squares-structural equation modeling.

Findings

User acceptance is significantly inhibited by PRC. WRC has a negative influence on use. The negative influence of PRC on acceptance is more pronounced in the case of larger organizations. On the whole, a decentralized set-up is favorable to ERP implementation success.

Originality/value

The study highlights the impact of a centralized management structure on success of ERP implementation and in doing so, it demarcates the varied influence of two types of centralization. It contributes to the scarce research on ERP implementation using the strong theoretical basis of organizational innovation. The findings highlight the implications of centralization to the implementation outcomes, for organizations embarking upon ERP.
Effective stresses and shear failure pressure from in situ Biot's coefficient, Hejre Field, North Sea
Authors: Regel J.B. , Orozova‐Bekkevold I. , Andreassen K.A. , van Gilse N.C. Høegh , Fabricius I.L.
Published: August 2016

We propose a combination of Biot's equations for effective stress and the expression for shear failure in a rock to obtain an expression for minimum pore pressure in a stable vertical well bore. We show that a Biot's coefficient calculated from logging data in the Hejre Field, North Sea, is significantly different from 1. The log‐derived Biot's coefficient is above 0.8 in the Shetland Chalk Group and in the Tyne Group, and 0.6–0.8 in the Heno Sandstone Formation. We show that the effective vertical and horizontal stresses obtained using the log‐derived Biot's coefficient result in a drilling window for a vertical well larger than if approximating Biot's coefficient by 1. The estimation of the Biot's coefficient is straightforward in formations with a stiff frame, whereas in formations such as shales, caution has to be taken. We discuss the consequence of assumptions made on the mineral composition of shales as unphysical results could be obtained when choosing inappropriate mineral moduli.
Dynamics of local governance in natural resource conservation in the Okavango Delta, Botswana
Authors: Mogende Emmanuel , Kolawole Oluwatoyin
Published: August 2016

There has been a shift in natural resource management worldwide. This paper describes how modern institutions and policies influence management and shape access to and utilization of resources by rural communities in the Okavango Delta, Botswana. It is rooted in the framework of adaptive co‐governance within social‐ecological systems, and employs a critical literature review to analyse access to and use of natural resources in rural Botswana. Prior to the establishment of community‐based natural resource management (CBNRM) in Botswana in 1989, resource governance was dominated by strong traditional institutions that were responsible for natural resource management and decision‐making. Contemporary natural resource governance is characterized by a bureaucratic system that invariably undermines the role of traditional institutions in natural resource governance. Findings indicate that policies and regulatory instruments deny rural communities adequate access to and utilization of resources available within their immediate environment. In spite of an orientation towards an anthropocentric approach to natural resource management (as in the case of CBNRM), the current governance system continues to undermine the inclusion of local resource users as legitimate stakeholders in the decision‐making process.
Considering the locals: coastal construction and destruction in times of climate change on Anjouan, Comoros
Authors: Ratter Beate M.W. , Petzold Jan , Sinane Kamardine
Published: August 2016

The current discussion of anticipated climate change impacts and future sea level rise is particularly relevant to small island states. An increase in natural hazards, such as floods and storm waves, is likely to have a devastating impact on small islands' coastlines, severely affecting targeted sustainable development. Coastal erosion, notably human‐induced erosion, has been an ongoing threat to small island biodiversity, resources, infrastructure, and settlements, as well as society at large. In the context of climate change, the problem of coastal erosion and the debate surrounding it is gaining momentum. Before attributing associated impacts to climate change, current human activities need to be analysed, focusing not only on geomorphological and climatological aspects, but also on political and traditional cultural frameworks. The objective of this paper is to demonstrate the importance of the social‐political‐ecological systems analysis for adaptation strategies, and thus for future sustainable development. Coastal use is based on human constructs of the coast, as well as local perceptions and values ascribed to the coast. We use the case study of Anjouan, Comoros to differentiate between constructive and destructive practices on the coast, from both a mental and technical perspective. Beach erosion is described as more than a resource problem that manifests itself locally rather than nationally. Divergent political scales of interest impact future development as much as local action. Local action is not least framed by mental contribution and attribution of coasts as places for living, recreation and resource use. The present case study demonstrates that mental constructs of coasts as valuable areas can, in some cases, lead to the protection and preservation of beaches by initiatives of collective action. At the same time, local communities see the negative impacts of sand mining as causes of coastal erosion and, therefore, it is difficult to mobilize them to adapt to climate change and sea level rise.
On the Nature of Self‐Assessed House Prices
Authors: Davis Morris A. , Quintin Erwan
Published: August 2016

In models of optimal household behavior, the value of housing affects consumption, savings and other variables. But homeowners do not know the value of their house for certain until they sell, so while they live in their home they must rely on local house price data to estimate its value. This article uses data from the recent housing boom and bust to demonstrate that changes in households' self‐assessed home values are strongly consistent with the predictions of a model in which households optimally filter available house price data. Specifically, we show that self‐assessed house prices did not increase as rapidly as house price indexes during the boom and did not decline as severely during the bust. A Kalman filter model nearly perfectly replicates these data. These findings have direct implications for economists studying asking prices during booms and busts, optimal default decisions and other key housing‐related phenomena.
The accuracy of reading speed measurement by stopwatch versus measurement with an automated computer program (rad‐rd©)
Authors: Radner Wolfgang , Diendorfer Gabriela , Kainrath Bettina , Kollmitzer Christian
Published: August 2016

Purpose

To compare the reading time and reading speed measurements obtained with a stopwatch with those of an automated computer program for measuring reading speed and acuity (rad‐rd©; patent: AT 504635B1/10‐2006).

Methods

The rad‐rd© was used (in conjunction with a PC and microphone) for the computer‐based measurements. In rotation, each of four examiners took a turn reading the 12 sentences from one of the four RADNER Reading Charts to three other examiners, who served as stoppers. The stoppers simultaneously measured the reading time with a stopwatch while a fifth investigator used the rad‐rd© to obtain computerized measurements. The stopwatch measurements were then statistically compared with the rad‐rd© measurements.

Results

The mean reading time obtained with the stopwatch measurements was 4.34 ± 0.57 seconds (196.21 ± 21.79 wpm), versus 4.44 ± 0.59 seconds (192.24 ± 22.20 wpm) by computer measurement (r = 0.84). Of the 144 stopwatch measurements, 97 (67.36%) were shorter, and 47 (32.64%) were equal to (n = 5) or longer than the computer measurements. The mean difference for the shorter measurements was −0.17 ± 0.1 seconds (3.91% of the mean reading time), and the mean difference for the longer measurements was 0.11 ± 0.1 seconds (2.53% of the mean reading time). Most differences ranged from −0.1 to 0.1 seconds (42.36%). The results did not differ significantly among the four stoppers.

Conclusion

The rad‐rd© is an accurate, automated computer program for measuring reading time. Stopwatch measurements, although subject to inaccuracy from several sources, remain a reliable and simple method for analysis of reading performance.
MicroRNA‐137 suppresses tongue squamous carcinoma cell proliferation, migration and invasion
Authors: Sun Lanying , Liang Jin , Wang Qibao , Li Zhaoyuan , Du Yi , Xu Xin
Published: August 2016

Objectives

Tongue squamous cell carcinoma (TSCC) is the most frequent type of oral malignancy. Increasing evidence has shown that miRNAs play key roles in many biological processes such as cell development, invasion, proliferation, differentiation, metabolism, apoptosis and migration.

Materials and methods

qRT‐PCR analysis was performed to measure miR‐137 expression. CCK‐8 analysis, cell colony formation, wound‐healing analysis and invasion were performed to detect resultant cell functions. The direct target of miR‐137 was labelled and measured by luciferase assay and Western blotting.

Results

We demonstrated that expression of miR‐137 was downregulated in TSCC tissues compared to matched normal ones. miR‐137 expression was downregulated in TSCC lines (SCC4, SCC1, UM1 and Cal27) compared to the immortalized NOK16B cell line and normal oral keratinocytes in culture (NHOK). In addition, we have shown that miR‐137 expression was epigenetically regulated in TSCCs. Overexpression of miR‐137 suppressed TSCC proliferation and colony formation. Ectopic expression of miR‐137 promoted expression of the epithelial biomarker, E‐cadherin, and inhibited the mesenchymal biomarker, N‐cadherin, as well as vimentin and Snail expression, indicating that miR‐137 suppressed TSCC epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT). We also showed that ectopic expression of miR‐137 inhibited TSCC invasion and migration. In addition, we identified SP1 as a direct target gene of miR‐137 in SCC1 cells. SP1 overexpression rescued inhibitory effects exerted by miR‐137 on cell proliferation and EMT.

Conclusions

These results indicate that miR‐137 acted as a tumour suppressor in TSCC by targeting SP1.
Is There any Threshold in the Relationship Between Mother's Education and Child Health? Evidence from Nigeria
Authors: Ahmed Meherun , Iqbal Kazi
Published: August 2016

The literature on mother's education and child health casually observes some nonlinearities and also a threshold in the relationship. Even though this nonlinearity or threshold has significant bearing on policy matters such as quality of education, any rigorous attempt to address this issue is missing in the literature. With height for age z‐score as a proxy for long‐run child health capital, regression results reveal that there are significant effects of mother's education on child health if mothers do not continue past primary school. Rather, poor quality of education at the primary level, especially literacy, is argued to have given rise to this threshold. It indicates that greater public investment in improving quality of education at the primary level is essential for maximizing the nonmarket outcomes of girls’ education in developing countries.
What Hands May Tell Us about Reading and Writing
Authors: Mangen Anne
Published: August 2016

Reading and writing are increasingly performed with digital, screen‐based technologies rather than with analogue technologies such as paper and pen(cil). The current digitization is an occasion to “unpack,” theoretically and conceptually, what is entailed in reading and writing as embodied, multisensory processes involving audiovisual and ergonomic interaction with devices having particular affordances. Highlighting the sensorimotor contingencies of substrates and technologies — how movement and object manipulation affect perception, experience, and sensory “feel” — this article presents an embodied approach to reading, writing, and literacy, using three cases of digitization as illustrations of some educational implications: (1) beginning writing by hand or by keyboard; (2) dialogic reading with iPads and print picture books in kindergarten; and (3) deep reading of long, linear texts on paper and on screens.
Symptom attribution and frontal cortical thickness in first‐episode schizophrenia
Authors: Asmal Laila , du Plessis Stefan , Vink Matthijs , Chiliza Bonginkosi , Kilian Sanja , Emsley Robin
Published: August 2016

Aim

Misattribution of symptoms is a common feature of schizophrenia, and likely involves impairment of metacognitive function that may be mediated by the frontal cortex. We aimed to compare frontal cortical thickness in first‐episode schizophrenia (FES) patients with matched controls, and investigate its relationship with the symptom attribution dimension of insight in FES patients.

Methods

We examined frontal cortical thickness in 92 minimally treated FES patients at baseline presentation and 93 healthy controls aged 16–45 years. We examined for correlations between symptom attribution as determined by the Birchwood Insight Scale (BIS) symptom relabeling subscale score and cortical thickness of frontal regions of interest (ROIs). We then examined for an association between symptom attribution and cortical thickness using multiple regression analysis.

Results

FES patients exhibited significantly reduced cortical thicknesses for a number of frontal regions, namely the left medial orbitofrontal, left superior frontal, left frontal pole, right rostral middle frontal, right lateral orbitofrontal and right superior frontal regions. Reduced cortical thickness in FES patients was associated with symptom misattribution for the left and right rostral middle frontal, left caudal anterior cingulate, right superior frontal, and left and right pars triangularis regions. Reduced left rostral middle frontal thickness and left anterior cingulate thickness remained significant on regression analysis.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that frontal neuroanatomical deficits that are present early in the disease process may be critical to the pathogenesis of symptom attribution in schizophrenia.