bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The concept of online corporate brand experience: an empirical assessment
Authors: Khan Imran , Rahman Zillur , Fatma Mobin
Published: July 2016

Purpose

– The idea of providing superior brand experiences in the growing internet environment has received much research attention in recent years. The purpose of this paper is to empirically examine corporate brand experience concept in an online context (i.e. online corporate brand experience (OCBE)), and to examine its influence on brand satisfaction and brand loyalty.

Design/methodology/approach

– This study surveys online banking customers to purify and validate the dimensions and measurement items of OCBE, and to test the developed hypothesis.

Findings

– Results confirmed five dimensions and 19 items of OCBE. The OCBE dimensions – corporate visual identity, emotional experience and functionality are the strongest predictor of brand satisfaction and brand loyalty, compared to lifestyle and corporate/self-identity dimensions.

Research limitations/implications

– Findings are applicable to online banking only and do not offer generalizability to other online contexts. Furthermore, this study examined the influence of OCBE on brand satisfaction and brand loyalty; future research can incorporate brand equity and brand credibility as the possible outcomes of OCBE.

Practical implications

– This study will help brand managers to comprehend how investments in different aspects of corporate branding lead to corporate brand value.

Originality/value

– The empirical examination of the OCBE in banking services is a novel contribution in both corporate branding and services literature. This research conducted at the time when organizations increasingly recognize the value of corporate branding due to increased online usage and global competitiveness.
Capacity building for sustained competitive advantage: a conceptual framework
Authors: Shams S. M. Riad
Published: July 2016

Purpose

– Capacity building is a crucial antecedent for socio-economic development. However, an enhanced capacity that is difficult to develop could quickly be eroded, because of rapid changes in competitive forces in industries and markets. Therefore, this paper intends to analyse the extant strategic management and relationship marketing (RM) literature that deal with competition. Eventually, the purpose of this paper is to develop an alternative route for capacity building process that could sustain competitive advantage in a market or industry, which encounters rapid changes in business competition.

Design/methodology/approach

– An inductive constructivist approach is followed to support arguments, in order to develop a synthesis from the relevant literature to reinforce the current understandings on capacity building and sustained competitive advantage.

Findings

– An influence of RM on strategic organisational dynamic capabilities (DCs) is recognised, which appears as significant to sustain DCs and subsequent competitive advantage. Based on this influence, this paper proposes a conceptual framework of capacity building that could survive through the “valuable, rare, inimitability and non-substitutability” test, which is fundamental to sustain competitive advantage. Some empirical insights are developed, in support of this conceptual framework.

Practical implications

– For research and practice, these insights will be useful to focus on specific attributes in capacity building to sustain the enhanced capacity’s competitive advantage over time, across industries and markets.

Social implications

– Similarly, the insights will be instrumental to sustain the benefit of capacity building to underpin socio-economic progress.

Originality/value

– The paper proposes a much needed initial conceptual framework for capacity building to sustain competitive advantage of a hard-earned capacity for socio-economic development.
A demographic ménage à trois: interactions between disturbances both amplify and dampen population dynamics of an endemic plant
Authors: Tye Matthew R. , Menges Eric S. , Weekley Carl , Quintana‐Ascencio Pedro F. , Salguero‐Gómez Roberto
Published: July 2016

Natural and anthropogenic disturbances co‐occur in most systems, but how they interact to shape demographic outcomes remains poorly understood. Such interactions may alter dynamics of populations in non‐additive ways, making demographic predictions challenging when focusing on only one disturbance. Thus, understanding the interactive effects of such disturbances is critically important to determine the population viability of most species under a diversity of stressors.

We used a hierarchical integral projection model (IPM), parameterized with 13 years of field data across 20 populations, encompassing 2435 individuals of an endangered herb, Liatris ohlingerae. We examined interactive effects of vertebrate herbivory, fire and anthropogenic activities (sand roads) on vital rates (e.g. survival, growth, reproduction, recruitment) and ultimately on population growth rates (λ), to test the hypothesis that interactions amplify or dampen differences in λ depending on environmental contexts. We constructed megamatrices to determine coupled dynamics in individuals damaged vs. not damaged by herbivores in roadsides and in Florida scrub with different times since fire.

We identified strong interactive effects of fire with herbivory and habitat with herbivory on vital rates and on population growth rates in the IPM model. We also found different patterns of variation in λ between habitat and time‐since‐fire scenarios; population growth rates were higher in roadside populations compared to scrub populations and declined with increasing time since fire. Herbivory had interactive effects with both fire and human disturbances on λ. Herbivory resulted in decreased differences in λ due to anthropogenic disturbance and slightly increased differences in λ due to time since fire.

Synthesis. The co‐occurrence of various disturbances may both amplify and dampen the effects of other disturbances on population growth rate, thus shaping complex population dynamics that are neither linear nor additive. These realistic nonlinearities represent challenges in understanding and projecting of population dynamics. Here, we examined the effects of various sources of disturbance on the population dynamics of an endangered plant species, finding complex interactions affecting population growth rates. We argue that integration of multiple, interacting stressors in IPMs will allow more accurate estimation of the overall effects of ecological processes on species viability.
Environmental Goods and Measures for Their Promotion: An Analysis Using a Fair Wage Model
Authors: Sugiyama Yasuyuki , Saito Muneyuki
Published: July 2016

In this paper, we model a two‐sector small open economy with emissions and unemployment associated with the fair wage effort hypothesis, and investigate the environmental and employment impact of an emission tax, a subsidy for purchasing environmental goods in the downstream polluting industry, and a subsidy to the upstream eco‐industry. We then show that if the eco‐industry is skilled labor intensive relative to the polluting final goods industry, while a subsidy for purchasing environmental goods decreases the unemployment rate of unskilled labor, it may increase total emissions. In contrast, the emission tax and the subsidy to eco‐industry firms worsen the unemployment rate, though both policies decrease total emissions. Hence, if the emission tax is set equal to the marginal environmental damage, and either a downstream or upstream subsidy is used to mitigate unskilled unemployment, the optimal subsidy to purchase the goods is positive whereas the optimal subsidy to the eco‐industry is negative, i.e., a tax on the eco‐industry.
Stock Market Responses Under Quantitative Easing: State Dependence and Transparency in Monetary Policy
Authors: Nakazono Yoshiyuki , Ikeda Satoshi
Published: July 2016

This paper evaluates the effects of unconventional monetary policies adopted by the Bank of Japan from the year 2001 to 2006. A new measure is proposed to identify a nontraditional monetary policy shock from policy packages under the zero lower bound of short‐term nominal interest rates during the quantitative easing period, using data on intraday 3‐month Euroyen futures rates. We find that stock markets do not react to a policy surprise in an expected manner and negatively respond to a monetary easing surprise. Moreover, we find an asymmetric response during a boom and a recession and a nonlinear reaction because of increasing uncertainty concerning future inflation dynamics and the enhancement of monetary policy transparency. Our result suggests that it is difficult to implement unconventional monetary policy to manage agents’ expectations and a ‘lean against the wind’ policy to prevent asset bubbles, particularly at the zero bound.
What is the Appropriate Counterfactual When Estimating Effects of Multilateral Trade Policy Reform?
Authors: Anderson Kym , Jensen Hans Grinsted , Nelgen Signe , Strutt Anna
Published: July 2016

Multilateral trade reforms, such as may eventually emerge from the WTO's Doha Development Agenda (DDA), tend to be phased in over a decade or so after agreement is reached. Given the DDA's slow progress, that implementation may not be completed before the end of the next decade. Ex‐ante analysis of the DDA's possible effects thus requires first modelling the world economy to 2030 and, in that process, projecting what trade‐related policies might be by then without a DDA. Typically, modellers assume the counterfactual policy regime to be a ‘business‐as‐usual’ projection assuming the status quo. Yet we know developing country governments tend to switch from taxing to assisting farmers in the course of economic development. This paper shows the difference made by including political economy‐determined agricultural protection growth endogenously in the baseline projection. We reveal that difference by projecting the world economy to 2030 using the Global Trade Analysis Project (GTAP) model with those two alternative policy regimes and then simulating a move to global free trade (the maximum benefit from a multilateral trade reform) in each of those two cases. The welfare effects of removing the counterfactual price distortions in 2030 are shown to be much larger in the case where agricultural protection grows endogenously than in the case assuming no policy changes over the projection period. This suggests the traditional way of estimating effects of a multilateral agricultural trade agreement may considerably understate the potential welfare gains.
The Effect of Skin Debris on Gunshot Residue Sampling and Detection
Authors: Burnett Bryan R.
Published: July 2016

These experiments were designed to determine whether skin debris (desquamated epithelial cells and apparent skin oils) affects gunshot residue (GSR) particle detection on the sticky tape lift samples prepared for scanning electron microscopy (SEM). A dabbing experiment showed that GSR particles accumulate not only on the adhesive surface of the sampler, but also on the epithelial cell surfaces. Samplers were loaded with target GSR followed by dabbing 30 times on the back of a hand. Backscatter electron images were taken at 20 kV and for some at 30 kV of the same areas. The samplers were then treated with a sodium/calcium hypochlorite solution (bleach) to remove skin debris and again imaged in the SEM. Comparison of these images shows more GSR particles will likely be revealed at 30 kV than 20 kV and more particles revealed by the bleach treatment in an automated SEM system.
Pulmonary thromboembolism in patient with coexistence of Behçet's disease and antiphospholipid syndrome
Authors: Kim Jun‐Hyun , Lee Kyung‐Ann , Jung Min‐Young , Kim Ah‐Ran , Yoon Jeong‐Min , Shim Hyoung‐Joon , Lee Sang‐Heon , Kim Ho‐Youn , Kim Hae‐Rim
Published: July 2016

Pulmonary thromboembolism (PTE) is rarely reported in Behçet's disease (BD) due to its distinctive thrombus‐forming mechanism. In BD, the inflammation on vessel walls causes venous thrombosis. The thrombi are considered to be tethered to the inflamed walls making embolization less frequent. Thus, immunosuppressive agents are the mainstay of treatment. However, the necessity of anticoagulation therapy is controversial because of its uncertain efficacy of resolving thrombi and the possibility of fatal side effects of hemorrhage. A 25‐year‐old man with recurrent oral aphthae visited with abrupt onset of dyspnea and chest pain. Based on history, imaging studies and laboratory results, he was diagnosed with BD with vascular involvement and antiphospholipid syndrome (APS), causing PTE from deep vein thrombosis. The co‐existing APS may have further promoted the thrombosis, shifting his blood profile toward the hypercoagulable state. Immunosuppressive therapy with glucocorticoid and azathioprine, and concomitant anticoagulation with warfarin were achieved successfully without any fatal complications. When atypical features of vascular involvement in BD develop, other coexisting diseases should be considered to design an optimal therapeutic plan.
Remuneration committees, shareholder dissent on CEO pay and the CEO pay–performance link
Authors: Kent Pamela , Kercher Kim , Routledge James
Published: July 2016

We provide evidence on whether the adoption of the full Australian Securities Exchange recommendations for remuneration committee formation and structure are associated with a lower shareholder dissenting vote or a stronger CEO pay–performance link. We find some evidence that a minority‐ and majority‐independent remuneration committee and a committee size of at least the recommended three members are associated with lower shareholder dissent. Companies with an independent committee have a stronger CEO pay–performance link. In addition, a majority‐independent committee strengthens the link between performance and growth in CEO pay.
Two‐stage laparoscopic curative resection for synchronous multiple colorectal cancers: A case report
Authors: Takahashi Rina , Sakamoto Kazuhiro , Tomiki Yuichi , Kojima Yutaka , Takahashi Makoto , Sugimoto Kiichi , Kawai Masaya , Okazawa Yu , Makino Yurika
Published: July 2016

A 75‐year‐old man tested positive for occult blood in the stool. A subsequent examination indicated concurrent locally advanced cancer (cT3) at the hepatic flexure and lower rectum cancer in the external anal sphincter. Because of the locally advanced rectal cancer (cT4), preoperative chemoradiotherapy was administered. First, laparoscopic right hemicolectomy and colostomy were performed at the sigmoid colon. Chemoradiotherapy for rectal cancer was initiated on day 18 after the surgeries. Seven weeks after chemoradiotherapy had been completed, laparoscopic abdominoperineal resection and right lateral pelvic lymph node dissection were performed. This case demonstrated that a second radical surgery for rectal cancer could be performed safely and laparoscopically after laparoscopic colectomy and colostomy.
Gastric volvulus with a large bochdalek hernia in an adult successfully treated with emergency endoscopic reduction followed by elective laparoscopic mesh repair: A case study
Authors: Nishihara Yuichi , Kawaguchi Yoshiki , Urakami Hidejiro , Seki Shiko , Ohishi Takashi , Isobe Yoh , Matsumoto Sumio
Published: July 2016

We report a case of gastric volvulus with a large Bochdalek hernia successfully treated with emergency endoscopic reduction followed by elective laparoscopic mesh repair. The patient was a 71‐year‐old woman with no history of trauma. She was referred to our hospital because of nausea and vomiting after eating. Thoracic and abdominal CT showed gastric volvulus and a large Bochdalek hernia. The patient underwent emergency endoscopic reduction and elective laparoscopic surgery. The defect (10 × 12 cm) was reinforced with a Dual Mesh (expanded polytetrafluoroethylene) and fixed to the diaphragm with nonabsorbable sutures. The postoperative course was uneventful, and no complications or recurrence was found at the 2‐year follow‐up. The endoscopic reduction and elective laparoscopic procedure was performed successfully and resulted in significant clinical improvement in this case.
Usefulness of transanal tube placement for prevention of anastomotic leakage following laparoscopic low anterior resection
Authors: Ito Tetsuo , Obama Kazutaka , Sato Teruyuki , Matsuo Koichi , Inoue Hidenobu , Kubota Keiko , Tamaki Nobuyuki , Kami Kazuhiro , Yoshimura Naoki , Shono Takahito , Yamamoto Eiji , Morimoto Taisuke
Published: July 2016

Introduction

Anastomotic leakage (AL) is a major complication of laparoscopic low anterior resection (LLAR) for rectal cancer. Although several recent reports have suggested that transanal tube placement can prevent AL, this practice is still controversial. Additionally, the mechanism by which a transanal tube prevents AL is unknown. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of transanal tube placement for prevention of AL following LLAR.

Methods

This was a retrospective study that included 69 patients who underwent LLAR between February 2012 and January 2016. After an anastomosis using a double stapling technique, a transanal tube was placed in 28 patients. A diverting stoma was created in 26 patients. Univariate and multivariate analyses of clinicopathological characteristics were performed.

Results

The overall incidence of AL was 15.9% (11/69). Univariate analysis showed that transanal tube placement (P = 0.022) and early postoperative diarrhea (P < 0.001) were associated with AL. The duration of the postoperative hospital stay for patients with transanal tube placement (13.1 ± 4.1 days) was significantly shorter than for patients without a transanal tube (22.7 ± 12.3 days; P < 0.001). However, transanal tube placement did not reduce postoperative diarrhea. Creation of a diverting stoma did not affect the incidence of AL. Multivariate analysis revealed that the absence of a transanal tube (odds ratio = 33.5, P = 0.018) and the occurrence of postoperative diarrhea (odds ratio = 86.3, P = 0.001) were independent risk factors for AL.

Conclusion

Transanal tube placement prevents AL after LLAR. Furthermore, this protective effect may be due to a reduction in the unfavorable incidence of early postoperative diarrhea.
Preliminary experience using a tunica vaginalis flap as the dorsal component of Bracka's urethroplasty
Authors: Harper Luke , Michel Jean‐Luc , Sauvat Frederique
Published: July 2016

Objective

To evaluate clinical use of a tunica vaginalis flap as the dorsal component of a two‐stage urethroplasty in boys with cripple hypospadias.

Patients and Methods

We performed the first stage of a Bracka two‐stage urethroplasty, using a tunica vaginalis flap as the dorsal component in six boys with cripple hypospadias. We analysed their clinical characteristics and the results of this technique.

Results

The mean (range) age of the boys was 57 (34–120) months. The mean (range) number of previous procedures the boys had undergone was 4 (3–5). At the 6‐month follow‐up, all the boys presented significant fibrosis of the dorsal graft rendering it unusable for tubularisation.

Conclusions

Exposure to the external environment seems to induce retraction and fibrosis of the tunica vaginalis. We believe one should be very cautious about using tunica vaginalis as the dorsal component of a two‐stage urethroplasty, as significant fibrosis might well render the flap unusable.
The Challenges of Using Design Thinking in Industry – Experiences from Five Large Firms
Authors: Carlgren Lisa , Elmquist Maria , Rauth Ingo
Published: July 2016

Design Thinking (DT) is advocated as a user‐centred approach to innovation, based on the way designers think and work. Despite being increasingly promoted as an approach to innovation, there is still little evidence of successful impact. Rather, indications suggest that firms find implementation challenging. The purpose of this paper is to analyse challenges of using DT in light of literature on innovation barriers, in order to discuss whether there is something unique about DT as a concept that makes it particularly challenging to use. The paper is based on an interview study of five large firms that all have at least five years of experience of using DT. The analysis shows that several of the perceived challenges can be linked to known barriers to innovation. However, other challenges have not previously been described in the innovation literature, and the paper suggests that there are some unique aspects of DT that makes it particularly challenging for firms to integrate it in innovation work. These are related to its core themes: user focus, problem framing, experimentation, visualization and diversity. Additionally, the paper contributes with an empirically based categorization of challenges that managers will find useful if they want to implement design thinking in their organizations.
Correlation between horizontal mucosal thickness and probing depths at healthy and diseased implant sites
Authors: Schwarz Frank , Claus Christian , Becker Kathrin
Published: July 2016

Objectives

To assess the horizontal mucosal thickness (hMT) at healthy and diseased implant sites and correlate these measurements with respective probing depths (PD).

Materials and methods

In 60 patients, hMT was assessed at the buccal aspect of healthy (n = 36) and diseased (peri‐implant mucositis: n = 26; peri‐implantitis: n = 167) implant sites using a validated ultrasonic A‐scanner (Pirop® Ultrasonic Biometer A‐ Scan, Echo‐Son, Krancowa, Poland) equipped with a specially designed tissue probe. The corresponding PD values were measured at the mid‐buccal aspects.

Results

Median hMT (1.10 mm) at healthy implant sites was significantly lower when compared with diseased sites (1.68 mm; 1.61 mm) (P < 0.001, respectively). These values did not markedly differ by implant location (i.e., upper/lower jaws) or position (i.e., anterior/posterior sites). The regression model failed to reveal a significant linear association between hMT and PD values at healthy and diseased implant sites.

Conclusion

This study has pointed to a significant increase of hMT values at diseased implant sites.
An investigation into mature adults’ attitudinal reluctance to register as organ donors
Authors: Quick Brian L. , Reynolds‐Tylus Tobias , Fico Ashley E. , Feeley Thomas Hugh
Published: July 2016

Background

Mature adults (age 50–64) make up a large proportion of organ transplant recipients, and waiting list candidates yet are underrepresented in terms of actual donors. Understanding the reasons why mature adults fail to register as deceased organ donors is critical in achieving the goal of increasing the actionable supply of organs available for transplant. Conceptual models propose certain factors such as bodily integrity, ick (i.e., disgust), jinx (i.e., superstition), medical mistrust, salience, self‐efficacy, and stake are associated with organ donation registration attitudes. Moreover, the age myth, or the belief that one's age prevents them from becoming an organ donor, was examined among mature adults between the ages of 50–64.

Method

An online survey was disseminated to mature adults (N=709).

Results

Results indicated jinx, salience, self‐efficacy, and stake each predicted organ donation attitudes among mature adults. Moreover, results indicated that age myth accounted for attitudes toward registering as an organ donor among non‐registered mature adults after controlling for non‐cognitive and vested interest constructs.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates the age myth is negatively associated with attitudes toward registering as organ donors. The results are discussed with an emphasis on both the theoretical and practical implications of study findings.
Entrepreneurial Orientation: The Dimensions’ Shared Effects in Explaining Firm Performance
Authors: Lomberg Carina , Urbig Diemo , Stöckmann Christoph , Marino Louis D. , Dickson Pat H.
Published: July 2016

We shed new light on the structure of the relationship between entrepreneurial orientation (EO) and firm performance and how this relationship varies across contexts. Using commonality analysis, we decompose the variance in performance—in terms of the effects of innovativeness, proactiveness, and risk taking—into parts that are attributable to unique variations in these dimensions (unique effects) and those attributable to covariation between these dimensions (shared effects). By demonstrating the empirical relevance of unique, bilaterally shared, and commonly shared effects in a heterogeneous sample of low–tech, high–tech, and multi–sector firms, we consolidate existing conceptualizations of EO and propose an extension of the extant theoretical views of the construct.
Fatigue behaviour and modelling of talc‐filled and short glass fibre reinforced thermoplastics, including temperature and mean stress effects
Authors: Eftekhari M , Fatemi A
Published: July 2016

Effects of temperature and mean stress on fatigue behaviour of talc‐filled polypropylene (PP‐T) and short glass fibre reinforced polypropylene (PP‐G), polyamide‐66 (PA66), and a blend of polyphenylene ether and polystyrene (PPE/PS) were investigated. Load‐controlled fatigue tests were conducted under positive stress ratios (R = 0.1 and 0.3) and at several temperatures (T = 23, 85 and 120 °C). Larson–Miller parameter was used and a shift factor of Arrhenius type was developed to correlate fatigue data at various temperatures. Effect of mean stress on fatigue life was significant for some of the studied materials; however, for the PPE/PS blend no effect of mean stress was observed. Modified Goodman and Walker mean stress equations were evaluated for their ability to correlate mean stress data. A general fatigue life prediction model was also used to account for the effects of mean stress, temperature, anisotropy and frequency.
Persistent conditioned place preference to aggression experience in adult male sexually‐experienced CD‐1 mice
Authors: Golden S. A. , Aleyasin H. , Heins R. , Flanigan M. , Heshmati M. , Takahashi A. , Russo S. J. , Shaham Y.
Published: July 2016

We recently developed a conditioned place preference (CPP) procedure, commonly used to study rewarding drug effects, to demonstrate that dominant sexually‐experienced CD‐1 male mice form CPP to contexts previously associated with defeating subordinate male C57BL/6J mice. Here we further characterized conditioned and unconditioned aggression behavior in CD‐1 mice. In Exp. 1 we used CD‐1 mice that displayed a variable spectrum of unconditioned aggressive behavior toward younger subordinate C57BL/6J intruder mice. We then trained the CD‐1 mice in the CPP procedure where one context was intruder‐paired, while a different context was not. We then tested for aggression CPP 1 day after training. In Exp. 2, we tested CD‐1 mice for aggression CPP 1 day and 18 days after training. In Exp. 3–4, we trained the CD‐1 mice to lever‐press for palatable food and tested them for footshock punishment‐induced suppression of food‐reinforced responding. In Exp. 5, we characterized unconditioned aggression in hybrid CD‐1 × C57BL/6J D1‐Cre or D2‐Cre F1 generation crosses. Persistent aggression CPP was observed in CD‐1 mice that either immediately attacked C57BL/6J mice during all screening sessions or mice that gradually developed aggressive behavior during the screening phase. In contrast, CD‐1 mice that did not attack the C57BL/6J mice during screening did not develop CPP to contexts previously paired with C57BL/6J mice. The aggressive phenotype did not predict resistance to punishment‐induced suppression of food‐reinforced responding. CD‐1 × D1‐Cre or D2‐Cre F1 transgenic mice showed strong unconditioned aggression. Our study demonstrates that aggression experience causes persistent CPP and introduces transgenic mice for circuit studies of aggression.
Attitudes and barriers to providing dietary advice: perceptions of dental hygienists and oral health therapists
Authors: Hayes MJ , Wallace JP , Coxon A
Published: July 2016

Objectives

Effective dietary counselling in a dental setting can significantly reduce the risk of oral disease. However, studies suggest that dental professionals are not instigating dietary advice on a regular basis, and there is a lack of current information of the barriers experienced that limit the delivery of dietary advice. The aim of this study was to investigate the current attitudes and practice behaviours of dental hygienists and oral health therapists in NSW, Australia, regarding dietary advice, and identify the barriers that limit its delivery.

Methods

A convenience sample of dental hygienists and oral health therapists were surveyed using a mail‐out questionnaire. The questionnaire investigated the demographic data of participants, the attitudes and practice behaviours of participants, the perceived barriers and current dietary resources accessed by participants.

Results

Of 987 dental hygienists and oral health therapists, 426 participants responded. The study results suggest that many dental hygienists and oral health therapists have positive beliefs regarding the importance of dietary counselling. However, there are a multitude of barriers preventing the delivery of dietary advice; these include time, patient compliance, patient knowledge of nutrition topics, personal counselling skills and practitioners’ knowledge of nutrition.

Conclusion

Whilst dental hygienists and oral health therapists recognize the importance of diet and have positive attitudes towards providing dietary advice to patients, this study identified many barriers preventing implementation in practice. This information may be used to develop targeted strategies aimed at overcoming these barriers and improving behaviours.
The Role of Audit Firm Size, Non‐Audit Services, and Knowledge Spillovers in Mitigating Earnings Management during Large Equity Issues
Authors: Eilifsen Aasmund , Knivsflå Kjell
Published: July 2016

We investigate how audit firm size and large auditor‐provided non‐audit services (NAS) affect accruals quality around large equity issues and acquisitions for Norwegian public companies from 1999 to 2013. We find poorer accruals quality around large equity increases. Big 4 audit firms mitigate adverse accruals quality but only if the provision of NAS is moderate or low. In contrast, non‐Big 4 audit firms are associated with lower accruals quality around large equity increases, but this effect is moderated if the provision of NAS is high. The findings are consistent with joint provision of audit and NAS as an effective learning mechanism to mitigate earnings management for smaller audit firms and a lesser willingness of larger audit firms to protect earnings when the provision of NAS is high. The evidence contrasts with the notion of large audit firms as universally superior audit quality suppliers and establishes new evidence on how knowledge spillovers from NAS may improve audit quality.
Incidence and etiology of hospitalized acute respiratory infections in the Egyptian Delta
Authors: Rowlinson Emily , Dueger Erica , Mansour Adel , Azzazy Nahed , Mansour Hoda , Peters Lisa , Rosenstock Summer , Hamid Sarah , Said Mayar M. , Geneidy Mohamed , Abd Allah Monier , Kandeel Amr
Published: July 2016

Introduction

Acute Respiratory Infections (ARI) are responsible for nearly two million childhood deaths worldwide. A limited number of studies have been published on the epidemiology of viral respiratory pathogens in Egypt.

Methods

A total of 6113 hospitalized patients >1 month of age with suspected ARI were enrolled between June 23, 2009 and December 31, 2013. Naso‐ and oropharyngeal specimens were collected and tested for influenza A and B, respiratory syncytial virus, human metapneumovirus, adenovirus, and parainfluenza viruses 1–3. Blood specimens from children 1–11 months were cultured and bacterial growth was identified by polymerase chain reaction. Results from a healthcare utilization survey on the proportion of persons seeking care for ARI was used to calculate adjusted ARI incidence rates in the surveillance population.

Results

The proportion of patients with a viral pathogen detected decreased with age from 67% in patients age 1–11 months to 19% in patients ≥65 years of age. Influenza was the dominant viral pathogen detected in patients ≥1 year of age (13.9%). The highest incidence rates for hospitalized ARI were observed in children 1–11 months (1757.9–5537.5/100 000 population) and RSV was the most commonly detected pathogen in this age group.

Conclusion

In this study population, influenza is the largest viral contributor to hospitalized ARIs and children 1–11 months of age experience a high rate of ARI hospitalizations. This study highlights a need for surveillance of additional viral pathogens and alternative detection methods for bacterial pathogens, which may reveal a substantial proportion of as yet unidentified etiologies in adults.
Community Involvement of Young Adults with Intellectual Disabilities: Their Experiences and Perspectives on Inclusion
Authors: Hall Sarah A.
Published: July 2016

Background

Inclusion in the community is essential to enhancing a person's quality of life. Although people with intellectual disabilities have a desire to be more involved in activities, they experience barriers that limit their inclusion.

Methods

The purpose of this study was to describe the community involvement of young adults with intellectual disability. I interviewed fourteen young adults with intellectual disability to explore their involvement in work, recreation and leisure activities.

Findings

Four themes emerged from the data: vocational endeavours, leisure pursuits, social inclusion and supports. The contexts of their experiences either facilitated or hindered their community involvement.

Conclusions

The community involvement of young adults with intellectual disability varies depending on the opportunities and supports available to them. Their inclusion in the community may be enhanced by additional transportation options, continuing education in vocational and social skills, personalized guidance from group members and environments that are welcoming to people with disabilities.
The Role of Executive Control and Readiness to Change in Problematic Drinkers with Mild to Borderline Intellectual Disability
Authors: van Duijvenbode Neomi , Didden Robert , Korzilius Hubert P. L. M. , Engels Rutger C. M. E.
Published: July 2016

Background

Problematic alcohol use is associated with neuropsychological consequences, including cognitive biases. The goal of the study was to explore the moderating role of executive control and readiness to change on the relationship between alcohol use and cognitive biases in light and problematic drinkers with and without mild to borderline intellectual disability (MBID).

Method

Participants (N = 112) performed the visual dot probe task to measure the strength of the cognitive biases. Executive control was measured using two computerised tasks for working memory capacity (Corsi block‐tapping task) and inhibitory control (Go/No‐go task). Readiness to change was measured using the Readiness to Change Questionnaire.

Results

No cognitive biases or executive dysfunctions were found in problematic drinkers. Working memory capacity and inhibitory control were impaired among individuals with MBID, irrespective of severity of alcohol use‐related problems. Executive control and readiness to change did not moderate the relationship between alcohol use and cognitive biases.

Conclusion

The results fail to support the dual‐process models of addiction, but results need to be treated with caution given the problematic psychometric qualities of the visual dot probe task. Implementing a neurocognitive assessment and protocols in the treatment of substance use disorders seems premature.
Out‐of‐Tibet: the spatio‐temporal evolution of Gentiana (Gentianaceae)
Authors: Favre Adrien , Michalak Ingo , Chen Chih‐Hsiung , Wang Jenn‐Che , Pringle James S. , Matuszak Sabine , Sun Hang , Yuan Yong‐Ming , Struwe Lena , Muellner‐Riehl Alexandra N.
Published: July 2016

Aim

We investigated the historical biogeography and diversification of Gentiana L. (Gentianaceae). Our study depicts the origin and dispersal routes of this alpine genus, and the role of the uplift of the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau (QTP) and past climate changes as triggers for its diversification.

Location

Tibeto‐Himalayan region and world‐wide mountain habitats.

Methods

Our sampling represents more than 50% of the extant Gentiana species, including all sections across their entire geographical ranges. We investigated the evolutionary history of Gentiana using phylogenetic reconstructions (maximum likelihood and Bayesian inference) of ITS, atpB–rbcL and trnL–trnF sequences, as well as molecular dating with beast. We tested two approaches of ancestral area reconstructions (DEC, DIVA) in BioGeoBEARS and investigated diversification rates using BAMM.

Results

The common ancestor of Gentiana and subtribe Gentianinae lived in the QTP region at around 34 (25–45) million years ago (Ma), and 40 (29–52) Ma respectively. From the surroundings of the QTP, Gentiana lineages dispersed to eastern China, Taiwan, Europe, North and South America, Australia and New Guinea, from mid‐Miocene onward (c. 15 Ma–present), with only one older dispersal event to Europe (c. 37–21 Ma). Diversification rates gradually increased over time, and two switches of diversification rates were identified in Gentianinae (c. 7 Ma, simultaneously in the Pneumonanthe/Cruciata lineage and in Tripterospermum).

Main conclusions

Gentiana existed in the QTP region throughout most of its uplift history following the India‐Asia collision. This region acted as the primary source area for dispersals to many areas of the world. Because steady increase in diversification rates coincides with the extension of the QTP, we argue that the museum theory rather than the explosive radiation theory prevails for gentians in this region, although rare shifts of diversification rates are associated with niche shifts across the alpine/subalpine ecotone.
Reducing Radiation Exposure During CRT Implant Procedures: Single‐Center Experience With Low‐Dose Fluoroscopy Settings and a Sensor‐Based Navigation System (MediGuide)
Authors: THIBAULT BERNARD , MONDÉSERT BLANDINE , MACLE LAURENT , DUBUC MARC , DYRDA KATIA , TALAJIC MARIO , ROY DENIS , RIVARD LÉNA , GUERRA PETER G. , ANDRADE JASON G. , KHAIRY PAUL
Published: July 2016

Sensor‐Based Navigation and CRT Implantation

Introduction

Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) implant procedures are often complex and prolonged, resulting in substantial ionizing radiation (IR) exposure to the patient and operator. We assessed the impact of lower‐dose fluoroscopy settings and a sensor‐based electromagnetic tracking system (MediGuide™, MDG) on reducing IR exposure during CRT implantation.

Methods

A single‐center 2‐group cohort study was conducted on 348 consecutive patients, age 66.4 ± 11.0 years, 80.4% male, with CRT implant procedures from 2013 to 2015. Patients were arbitrarily assigned to MDG (N = 239) versus no MDG (N = 109) guidance. Lower‐dose fluoroscopy settings were adopted in January 2015 (3 instead of 6 fps; 23 instead of 40 nGy/pulse; N = 101).

Results

Overall, MDG was associated with an 82.1% reduction in IR exposure (393 μGray·m2 vs. 2191 μGray·m2, P < 0.001). Lower‐dose fluoroscopy resulted in a 59.5% reduction in IR‐exposure without MDG (1055 μGray·m2 vs. 2608 μGray·m2, P < 0.001) and 81.8% reduction with MDG (108 μGray·m2 vs. 595 μGray·m2, P < 0.001). Low‐dose fluoroscopy combined with MDG was associated with a 95.9% lower exposure to IR when compared to standard fluoroscopy without MDG (108 μGray·m2 vs. 2608 μGray·m2, P < 0.001). Procedures with MDG were shorter (96 minutes vs. 123 minutes, P < 0.001) and associated with a trend towards a higher success rate (94.6% vs. 89.0%, P = 0.062), with fewer coronary sinus cannulation failures (2.1% vs. 6.4%, P = 0.040).

Conclusion

Low‐dose fluoroscopy settings are highly effective (>50%) in reducing IR exposure during CRT implant procedures. When combined with MDG, >95% reduction in IR exposure is achieved. Moreover, MDG shortens procedural duration and may improve acute procedural outcomes.
Oxidative stress induces transient O‐GlcNAc elevation and tau dephosphorylation in SH‐SY5Y cells
Authors: Kátai Emese , Pál József , Poór Viktor Soma , Purewal Rupeena , Miseta Attila , Nagy Tamás
Published: July 2016

O‐linked β‐N‐acetlyglucosamine or O‐GlcNAc modification is a dynamic post‐translational modification occurring on the Ser/Thr residues of many intracellular proteins. The chronic imbalance between phosphorylation and O‐GlcNAc on tau protein is considered as one of the main hallmarks of Alzheimer's disease. In recent years, many studies also showed that O‐GlcNAc levels can elevate upon acute stress and suggested that this might facilitate cell survival. However, many consider chronic stress, including oxidative damage as a major risk factor in the development of the disease. In this study, using the neuronal cell line SH‐SY5Y we investigated the dynamic nature of O‐GlcNAc after treatment with 0.5 mM H2O2 for 30 min. to induce oxidative stress. We found that overall O‐GlcNAc quickly increased and reached peak level at around 2 hrs post‐stress, then returned to baseline levels after about 24 hrs. Interestingly, we also found that tau protein phosphorylation at site S262 showed parallel, whereas at S199 and PHF1 sites showed inverse dynamic to O‐Glycosylation. In conclusion, our results show that temporary elevation in O‐GlcNAc modification after H2O2‐induced oxidative stress is detectable in cells of neuronal origin. Furthermore, oxidative stress changes the dynamic balance between O‐GlcNAc and phosphorylation on tau proteins.
Seasonal changes in partial, reverse diel vertical migrations of cisco Coregonus artedi
Authors: Ahrenstorff T. D. , Hrabik T. R.
Published: July 2016

The objectives of this study were to (1) document changes in partial, reverse diel vertical migrations (DVM) patterns of cisco Coregonus artedi in Ten Mile Lake, MN, U.S.A., throughout the year and (2) evaluate the mechanisms that may cause shifts in migration behaviour. Results indicated that C. artedi vertical distributions remained deep in the water column during the day and night of the spring and autumn, which was related to a low risk, low reward strategy. During summer, a partial migration occurred where a portion of the population remained deeper according to the low risk, low reward strategy, while the other portion performed a more extensive high risk, high reward reverse DVM. In winter, C. artedi did not migrate because there were only low risk, low reward conditions present at all depths. The extensive partial, reverse DVM during summer probably increased the growth potential of C. artedi, helping individuals survive in a lake with low zooplankton prey resources.
Lactococcus garvieae outbreaks in Brazilian farms Lactococcosis in Pseudoplatystoma sp. – development of an autogenous vaccine as a control strategy
Authors: Fukushima H C S , Leal C A G , Cavalcante R B , Figueiredo H C P , Arijo S , Moriñigo M A , Ishikawa M , Borra R C , Ranzani‐Paiva M J T
Published: July 2016

This study evaluated the control of streptococcosis outbreaks in Brazil, isolated from diseased sorubim and identified as Lactococcus garvieae by genetic sequencing. This report determined the potential for lactococcosis control in sorubim Pseudoplatystoma sp. with two vaccines: an aqueous‐based, whole‐cell inactivated vaccine (bacterin) and an oil‐adjuvanted bacterin. Their efficacy was evaluated at 30 days post‐vaccination (d.p.v.) by challenge with L. garvieae, and the antibody production response at 15, 30 and 60 d.p.v. and the non‐specific immune response were compared amongst treatments. High protection levels (P < 0.05) were achieved with the oil‐adjuvanted vaccine with a relative percentage survival value of 81.7% at 30 d.p.v. Additionally, the oil‐adjuvanted vaccine increased the immunogenicity of the bacterin as indicated by greater agglutination antibody titres from 15 until 60 d.p.v. This is the first report of a positive effect of vaccine administration on the specific immunity of sorubim, and the study showed that a specific antibody plays an important role in sorubim defence against lactococcosis because the innate immune responses were similar in all of the studied animals. These results demonstrated that oil‐adjuvanted vaccine can be an effective alternative for the protection of sorubim from L. garvieae disease.
Production and Evaluation of Type of Multi‐Layer Active Film for Packaging of Pasteurized Milk
Authors: Haghighi‐Manesh Soroush , Azizi Mohammad Hossein
Published: July 2016

Objectives: The main aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of antimicrobial films on the shelf life of pasteurized milk. Methods: A natural antimicrobial agent, cinnamaldehyde, was incorporated in 0.5%, 1.0%, 1.5% and 2% concentrations in the middle layer of low density polyethylene (LDPE) three layer films by an extrusion process. Thickness of the inner layer were adjusted to 30 µm, 45 µm, and 60 µm and 2% PEG were added to some of the inner layer formulations. Active pillow packaging (5 cm × 7 cm) with 16 different formulas were obtained from the fabricated three layered active films by thermo‐welding process and filled with pasteurized milk and stored at 4°C for 9 days. In order to see the effect of the active films on pasteurized milk quality, changes in total microbial counts monitored during the storage period. Results: During extrusion process, the mass loss of cinnamaldehyde were six times lowered when it was entrapped in the polymer matrix. All types of fabricated active films contributed to a reduction of total CFU growth rates in the pasteurized milk, when compared to plain (control) PE film, but the films coated with a thinner inner layer and films containing 2% PEG in the inner layers had a more pronounced effect than did the other films in inhibiting bacterial growth. Moreover, considering the five point hedonic scale sensory tests, film formulation number OM2I4 selected as the best one and its physical properties were compared to the control film.

Practical Applications

Considering the daily high usage of pasteurized milk in most countries and regarding the short shelf life and perishable properties of this food product, using of multi‐layer active films containing cinnamaldehyde (a natural antimicrobial) for packaging of pasteurized milk can extend its typical shelf life (4 days) to 6 days at 4°C of storage.