bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bioinformatic Analyses of Renal Ischaemia-Reperfusion Injury Models: Identification of Key Genes Involved in the Development of Kidney Disease
Authors: Zhu Kai , Zheng Ting , Chen Xinghua , Wang Huiming
Published: December 2018

Background/Aims: To develop a novel strategy for the treatment of kidney disease, we explored potential molecular targets involved in the development of renal ischaemia-reperfusion injury (IRI). Methods: The Gene expression profile data of GSE27274, including controls and rats subjected to renal IRI and reperfusion for 24 h (IR24) or 120 h (IR120), was obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus database. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were analysed using the limma package. Gene Ontology (GO) and pathway functional enrichment analyses of common DEGs were carried out. Protein-protein interactions (PPI) and miRNA-DEG network analyses were performed using the STRING database and WebGestalt, respectively, followed by network construction using Cytoscape. Results: In total, 80 common DEGs (41 up- and 39 downregulated genes) between IR24 and IR120 were screened. Genes encoding tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinase-1 (Timp1), secreted phosphoprotein 1 (Spp1) and dimethylglycine dehydrogenase (Dmgdh) were identified as hub genes in the PPI network and may be significant in the development of renal IRI. Upregulated Spp1 was enriched in the inflammatory response, and downregulated Dmgdh was enriched in the catabolic process of the amino acid betaine. In reactome pathway analyses, Spp1 was enriched in toll-like receptor signalling, and Dmgdh was enriched in glycine, serine and threonine metabolic pathways. The common DEGs were mainly regulated by 15 miRNA clusters. Conclusion: Timp1, Spp1, Dmgdh, miR-142-5p and miR-181a may be potential targets or biomarkers for the development of renal IRI.
The Association of Echocardiographic Peak Systolic Strain Rate with Cardiovascular Outcomes in Haemodialysis Patients
Authors: Hughes John , Green Darren , Chiu Diana Y.Y. , Abidin Nik , Kalra Philip A.
Published: December 2018

Background/Aims: Echocardiographic abnormalities of systolic function can be detected earlier with advancing echocardiographic technologies. Given the high prevalence of left ventricular hypertrophy in dialysis patients, we hypothesised that one such marker of strain, peak systolic strain rate (SR) would demonstrate association with cardiovascular outcome in a haemodialysis cohort. Methods: Recruited prevalent haemodialysis patients underwent standard transthoracic echocardiography as part of a detailed cardiovascular assessment on a non-dialysis day during a short inter-dialytic midweek break. Patients were followed up to mortality and cardiovascular end points. Multivariate Cox proportional hazard models were built to determine the association of above versus below median SR in a model adjusted for confounding factors. Results: 183 patients were enrolled and followed up for a median 925 days. Median age was 64.9 years, prevalence of LVH 55%, and median SR -0.86 (-1.00 to -0.72). An SR greater than -0.86 S-1 (less negative) had a hazard ratio (HR) of 2.32 (1.36 to 3.95) in association with all-cause mortality after adjustment for EF, age, smoking history, MI, previous transplant, albumin and systolic blood pressure. For cardiovascular mortality, the HR was 2.343 (0.99 to 5.553) p =0.046. The only echocardiographic parameter independently associated with MACE was above median E/e (HR 2.09 [1.03 to 4.24], p=0.04). No echocardiographic parameter was associated with heart failure episodes. Conclusion: SR demonstrates association with outcome in this population and highlights the consideration that such sub-clinical cardiac changes should be routinely sought when referring haemodialysis patients for cardiac assessments.
Ecology and parasitism of the lizard Tropidurus jaguaribanus (Squamata: Tropiduridae) from northeastern Brazil
Authors: Alcantara Edna P. , Ferreira-Silva Cristiana , Sousa José Guilherme G. , Ávila Robson W. , Morais Drausio H.
Published: December 2018

Ecology and parasitism of the lizard Tropidurus jaguaribanus (Squamata: Tropiduridae) from northeastern Brazil. Specimens of Tropidurus jaguaribanus were collected as part of a study of their use of microhabitats, activity period, body temperature, diet, foraging, sexual dimorphism (in size and in form), reproductive biology, and parasite community composition. The preferential microhabitat of the species is the surface of rocks (saxicolous habit). The species has a bimodal diurnal activity period and a seasonal reproductive cycle. The diet is composed mainly of beetles and ants in adults and juveniles. The species is a sit-and-wait forager; the lizards scarcely move and feed on sedentary, immobile prey. The helminth community associated with these lizards is composed of fve species: Oochoristica travassosi, Parapharyngodon alvarengai, Physaloptera sp., Spauligodon sp., and Strongyluris oscari. The prevalence, intensity of infection, and parasite abundance is the same in both sexes.
Trophic niche of Dendropsophus minutus (Anura: Hylidae) in southern Brazil
Authors: Leivas Peterson T. , Mayer Thiago B. , Leivas Fernando W. T. , Fávaro Luis F.
Published: December 2018

Trophic niche of Dendropsophus minutus (Anura: Hylidae) in southern Brazil. The feeding biology of the Neotropical tree frog Dendropsophus minutus is described based on identifcation of the items consumed by the anuran. Samples were collected monthly samplings for one year in an Araucaria forest in the state of Paraná in southern Brazil. Of the total of 101 gastrointestines examined, 51 were empty or contained digested remains or plant items. The 50 samples of gastrointestinal contents contained three classes and 10 orders of arthropods. The results suggest that D. minutus is a generalist predator that feeds on arthropods, primarily those in the orders Araneae, Lepidoptera, and Diptera. The diet varies seasonally depending upon prey activity, which determines the breadth of the trophic niche of the frog.
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Ca
3.1 Channels Promote Cardiac Fibrosis Through Mediating Inflammation and Differentiation of Monocytes Into Myofibroblasts in Angiotensin II–Treated Rats
Authors: She Gang , Ren Yu‐Jie , Wang Yan , Hou Meng‐Chen , Wang Hui‐Fang , Gou Wei , Lai Bao‐Chang , Lei Ting , Du Xiao‐Jun , Deng Xiu‐Ling
Published: December 2018

Background

Cardiac fibrosis is a core pathological process associated with heart failure. The recruitment and differentiation of primitive fibroblast precursor cells of bone marrow origin play a critical role in pathological interstitial cardiac fibrosis. The

K
C

a
3.1 channels are expressed in both ventricular fibroblasts and circulating mononuclear cells in rats and are upregulated by angiotensin
II
. We hypothesized that

K
C

a
3.1 channels mediate the inflammatory microenvironment in the heart, promoting the infiltrated bone marrow–derived circulating mononuclear cells to differentiate into myofibroblasts, leading to myocardial fibrosis.

Methods and Results

We established a cardiac fibrosis model in rats by infusing angiotensin
II
to evaluate the impact of the specific

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C

a
3.1 channel blocker
TRAM
‐34 on cardiac fibrosis. At the same time, mouse
CD
4
+
T cells and rat circulating mononuclear cells were separated to investigate the underlying mechanism of the
TRAM
‐34 anti–cardiac fibrosis effect.
TRAM
‐34 significantly attenuated cardiac fibrosis and the inflammatory reaction and reduced the number of fibroblast precursor cells and myofibroblasts. Inhibition of

K
C

a
3.1 channels suppressed angiotensin
II
–stimulated expression and secretion of interleukin‐4 and interleukin‐13 in
CD
4
+
T cells and interleukin‐4– or interleukin‐13–induced differentiation of monocytes into fibrocytes.

Conclusions

K
C

a
3.1 channels facilitate myocardial inflammation and the differentiation of bone marrow‐derived monocytes into myofibroblasts in cardiac fibrosis caused by angiotensin
II
infusion.
Impact of Family Socioeconomic Status on Health‐Related Quality of Life in Children With Critical Congenital Heart Disease
Authors: Xiang Li , Su Zhanhao , Liu Yiwei , Huang Yuan , Zhang Xiaoling , Li Shoujun , Zhang Hao
Published: December 2018

Background

Socioeconomic status (
SES
) is associated with health‐related quality of life (
HRQOL
) for children with critical congenital heart disease; however, literature from newly industrialized countries is scarce.

Methods and Results

This cross‐sectional study included 2037 surviving patients operated on for critical congenital heart disease at a tertiary hospital in China between May 2012 and December 2015. All eligible patients were aged 2 to 12 years.
HRQOL
was measured by the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory 4.0 generic and 3.0 cardiac modules. Family
SES
was assessed by a composite of household income in the past year and occupation and education level of each parent in the family. Mean scores of major domains in
HRQOL
were significantly lower in the low‐
SES
group than in the medium‐ and high‐
SES
groups (total generic scores: 71.2±7.9 versus 75.0±8.0 and 76.0±7.9, respectively [
P
<0.001]; psychosocial functioning: 70.8±9.0 versus 74.4±8.4 and 75.3±8.4 [
P
<0.001]; physical functioning: 71.6±10.4 versus 76.0±9.7 and 77.1±9.4 [
P
<0.001]; heart symptoms: 71.9±11.6 versus 75.7±11.0 and 76.8±10.3 [
P
<0.001]; cognitive problems: 65.4±11.1 versus 69.4±12.1 and 74.6±13.6 [
P
<0.001]). After adjustment for other clinical and demographic variables in the multivariable linear regression model, family
SES
significantly affected all dimensions of
HRQOL
except for treatment barriers, treatment anxiety, physical appearance and communication.

Conclusions

Family
SES
is an important factor associated with
HRQOL
in patients with critical congenital heart disease. Further targeted interventions to improve HRQOL that consider the family and environmental issues confronted by those who are economically disadvantaged might help these patients have better outcomes.
Stimulus- and Response-locked Posterior Contralateral Negativity Bisect Cognitive Operations in Visual Search
Authors: Drisdelle Brandi Lee , Jolicœur Pierre
Published: December 2018

We explored the flow of information during visual search by examining activity indexing visual attention (N2pc) and the subsequent processing of the selected objects in visual short-term memory (SPCN) time-locked to stimulus presentation and to the motor response. We measured event-related activity at posterior sites (PO7/PO8) for 96 participants during a simple visual search task. A response-locked posterior contralateral negativity (RLpcN) was observed with a scalp distribution similar to that of the N2pc and SPCN. The RLpcN was compared with the stimulus-locked activity (N2pc and SPCN) across experimental manipulations (targets were either closer or farther from fixation in visual space, and the response was either more frequent [75%] or less frequent [25%]) and across response speeds (EEG data were separated into tertiles by RT both within-subjects and between-subjects). The leading edge and early portion of the RLpcN appeared to reflect the initial deployment of attention (N2pc), whereas the later portion (up to peak amplitude) reflected subsequent processing of visual information (SPCN). SPCN and RLpcN also had similar modulations in amplitude for both analyses. Moreover, whereas very small N2pc and SPCN onset latency differences were observed when data were separated into tertiles by RT, there were large onset differences for the RLpcN, with earlier RLpcN onsets for longer RTs, suggesting that RT variance is in large determined by processing after the initial deployment of attention. The results show how we can bisect processing responsible for variations in RT relative to the onset of visual spatial attention.
Disentangling Mathematics from Executive Functions by Investigating Unique Functional Connectivity Patterns Predictive of Mathematics Ability
Authors: Skagerlund Kenny , Bolt Taylor , Nomi Jason S. , Skagenholt Mikael , Västfjäll Daniel , Träff Ulf , Uddin Lucina Q.
Published: December 2018

What are the underlying neurocognitive mechanisms that give rise to mathematical competence? This study investigated the relationship between tests of mathematical ability completed outside the scanner and resting-state functional connectivity (FC) of cytoarchitectonically defined subdivisions of the parietal cortex in adults. These parietal areas are also involved in executive functions (EFs). Therefore, it remains unclear whether there are unique networks for mathematical processing. We investigate the neural networks for mathematical cognition and three measures of EF using resting-state fMRI data collected from 51 healthy adults. Using 10 ROIs in seed to whole-brain voxel-wise analyses, the results showed that arithmetical ability was correlated with FC between the right anterior intraparietal sulcus (hIP1) and the left supramarginal gyrus and between the right posterior intraparietal sulcus (hIP3) and the left middle frontal gyrus and the right premotor cortex. The connection between the posterior portion of the left angular gyrus and the left inferior frontal gyrus was also correlated with mathematical ability. Covariates of EF eliminated connectivity patterns with nodes in inferior frontal gyrus, angular gyrus, and middle frontal gyrus, suggesting neural overlap. Controlling for EF, we found unique connections correlated with mathematical ability between the right hIP1 and the left supramarginal gyrus and between hIP3 bilaterally to premotor cortex bilaterally. This is partly in line with the “mapping hypothesis” of numerical cognition in which the right intraparietal sulcus subserves nonsymbolic number processing and connects to the left parietal cortex, responsible for calculation procedures. We show that FC within this circuitry is a significant predictor of math ability in adulthood.
New dictyostelid cellular slime molds from South Africa
Authors: CAVENDER JAMES C. , VADELL EDUARDO , LANDOLT JOHN C. , STEPHENSON STEVEN L. , BALDAUF SANDRA L. , ROUX JOLANDA , CAVENDER NICOLE , WINSETT KATHERINE E.
Published: December 2018

A distributional study of the dictyostelid cellular slime molds (dictyostelids) of South Africa was carried out during 2006 as part of the Global Biodiversity of Eumycetozoans project based at the University of Arkansas and funded by the National Science Foundation. Samples of soil/humus collected from 31 study sites yielded a total of 881 clones, with an average density of 210 clones/gram for all samples in which dictyostelids were detected. Eighteen different species were represented by one or more clones, and six of these could not be identified. These six species are described herein as new to science. In addition, information is provided on the ecological distribution of all of the species of dictyostelids now known to occur in South Africa.
A revision of the Hoya uncinata complex (Apocynaceae, Asclepiadoideae), with description of a new species
Authors: RODDA MICHELE , RAHAYU SRI
Published: December 2018

The Hoya uncinata complex is a group of species with clear latex, deeply lobed rotate corolla and corpusculum of the pollinarium almost as large as the pollinium. Three species are included in the complex: Hoya uncinata from Java and Sumatra, Hoya ruthiae from Borneo and a new species here described, Hoya corneri, from Borneo, Peninsular Malaysia and Thailand. Hoya padangensis is recognised as a new synonym of H. uncinata. Hoya padangensis and H. uncinata are typified.
The genus Ophiorrhiza (Rubiaceae) in Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India with a new species
Authors: HAREESH VADAKKOOT SANKARAN , SABU MAMIYIL
Published: December 2018

Taxonomic studies on the genus Ophiorrhiza in Andaman and Nicobar Islands resulted in the discovery of a new species from Saddle Peak National Park and Rutland Island. Previously reported species of Ophiorrhiza in these islands are keyed with reference photographs, ethnobotanical notes, and updated distribution maps.
First record of the leafhopper genus Xenovarta Viraktamath (Hemiptera, Cicadellidae, Deltocephalinae) from India with description of a new species
Authors: MESHRAM NARESH M. , STUTI STUTI , HASHMI TAHSEEN RAZA
Published: December 2018

The genus Xenovarta Viraktamath is recorded from India for the first time and Xenovarta viraktamathi sp. nov. from India is described and illustrated. Materials are deposited in the National Pusa Collection, Division of Entomology, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), New Delhi, India. A key to species of the genus are provided, with molecular evidence of the specimen in the form of partial mtCOI sequences.
Calibrated Probabilistic Forecasts of Arctic Sea Ice Concentration
Authors: Dirkson Arlan , Merryfield William J. , Monahan Adam H.
Published: December 2018

Seasonal forecasts of Arctic sea ice using dynamical models are inherently uncertain and so are best communicated in terms of probabilities. Here, we describe novel statistical postprocessing methodologies intended to improve ensemble-based probabilistic forecasts of local sea ice concentration (SIC). The first of these improvements is the application of the parametric zero- and one-inflated beta (BEINF) probability distribution, suitable for doubly bounded variables such as SIC, for obtaining a smoothed forecast probability distribution. The second improvement is the introduction of a novel calibration technique, termed trend-adjusted quantile mapping (TAQM), that explicitly takes into account SIC trends and is applied using the BEINF distribution. We demonstrate these methods using a set of 10-member ensemble SIC hindcasts from the Third Generation Canadian Climate Coupled Global Climate Model (CanCM3) over the period 1981–2017. Though fitting ensemble SIC hindcasts to the BEINF distribution consistently improves probabilistic hindcast skill relative to a simpler “count based” probability approach in perfect model experiments, it does not itself correct model biases that may reduce this improvement when verifying against observations. The TAQM calibration technique is effective at removing SIC biases present in CanCM3 and improving forecast reliability. Over the recent 2000–17 period, TAQM-calibrated SIC hindcasts show improved skill relative to uncalibrated hindcasts. Compared against a climatological reference forecast adjusted for the trend, TAQM-calibrated hindcasts show widespread skill, particularly in September, even at 3–4-month lead times.
Enemies of freedom and defenders of democracy: The metaphorical response to terrorism
Authors: Rafoss Tore Witsø
Published: December 2018

This article examines the public speeches presented by George W. Bush and Jens Stoltenberg in the aftermath of, respectively, the terrorist attacks of 11 September 2001 and 22 July 2011. By using a novel combination of cognitive linguistics and the strong programme in cultural sociology, I demonstrate how one metaphor system fundamentally shaped the speeches of both national leaders, a system I term The Fight for Freedom and Democracy. The article shows how this system can be seen as the source of both the similarities and differences in the speeches of Bush and Stoltenberg. Both leaders describe a metaphorical struggle between the national community and the terrorist(s), but Bush escalates this struggle to a War on Terror, while Stoltenberg’s only ‘weapons’ in this battle are democratic ideals. Building on these findings, the article discusses how the different discourses of good and evil might be an integral part of the responses to terrorism.
Management Education and Earth System Science: Transformation as if Planetary Boundaries Mattered
Authors: Edwards Mark G. , Alcaraz Jose M. , Cornell Sarah E.
Published: December 2018

Earth system science (ESS) has identified worrying trends in the human impact on fundamental planetary systems. In this conceptual article, we discuss the implications of this research for business schools and management education (ME). We argue that ESS findings raise significant concerns about the relationship between business and nature and, consequently, a radical reframing is required to embed economic and social activity within the global sustainability of natural systems. This has transformative implications for ME. To illustrate this reframing, we apply the ESS lenses of social-ecological interdependence, multiscalar relations, environmental governance, and environmental values to the ME functional domains of institutional purpose, social context and engagement, pedagogical practice, curricular design, and research focus. Our work contributes to the literature on business education for sustainability and the business-society-nature nexus. We explore and apply key ESS findings and concepts, discuss normative implications of these ideas, and offer guidance on transformational pathways for business schools and ME.
Up, Up, and Away: Upgrading as a Response to Dissimilar Brand Users
Authors: Wang Yajin , John Deborah Roedder
Published: December 2018

Researchers have found that consumers abandon and avoid products when they feel threatened by the presence of dissimilar groups who also use the product. In this article, the authors propose a different strategy for responding to dissimilar users, upgrading to a brand’s more exclusive products. Results from six studies show that upgrading is a preferred strategy for consumers with strong self–brand connections, who are unlikely to avoid or abandon the brand because their self-identity is tied to the brand. Among these consumers, the act of upgrading to a brand’s more exclusive products is driven by their feelings of self-threat when exposed to dissimilar users, which triggers a desire to attain a higher-status position among brand users that is fulfilled by upgrading. The authors also identify moderators of the upgrading effect for consumers with strong self–brand connections. These consumers’ increased interest in upgrading is dampened when a brand’s exclusive products are made more readily available and when a brand has already conferred higher status to them through a customer status tier program.
Brand Evaluation and Brand Choice: A Longitudinal Study
Authors: Kraft Frederic B. , Granbois Donald H. , Summers John O.
Published: December 2018

An analysis is presented showing the association between a summated brand evaluation index and brands purchased over time. The summated index was no more predictive than simpler measures such as “brand last purchased” and a 7-point rating scale, although the summated index may have value as a diagnostic tool.
The Use of Field Experimental Observations in Estimating Advertising Recall
Authors: Strong Edward C.
Published: December 2018

The results of field experimentation in advertising are often under-utilized. A model of advertising recall within an audience is presented. The model provides the basis for a schedule simulator which estimates advertising recall for a variety of schedules. The outcomes of the simulations are compared with previous research.
Market Segment Response to the Marketing Decision Variables
Authors: Mccann John M.
Published: December 2018

This article presents the results of an econometric analysis of panel data directed toward the measurement of differential responsiveness of market segments to changes in advertising expenditures, price, and the level of dealing. Evidence is found for considerable differences in levels of response, and the managerial implications of these differences are investigated.
Salesmen's Response to Financial Incentives: An Empirical Study
Authors: Darmon René Y.
Published: December 2018

Different behavioral patterns are hypothesized to explain salesmen's responses to financial incentives in terms of their sales and earnings. In this case study, the proposition that salesmen work just enough to attain what they consider an acceptable level of income best explains the data.
Estimating Consumer Preferences for a New Durable Brand in an Established Product Class
Authors: Ryans Adrian B.
Published: December 2018

A theoretical model is developed to aid in the estimation of demand for a durable brand at a given price in an established product class. The operationalization and an experimental test of the model in the new product context are described and the results discussed.
A General Procedure for Estimating Consumer Preference Distributions
Authors: Srinivasan V.
Published: December 2018

This article provides a general procedure for estimating consumer preference distributions without having to prespecify their forms. Using linear programming, it minimizes the sum of absolute errors between observed and predicted proportions of consumer choices in paired comparison tests. Extensions of the procedure for estimating multidimensional distributions are also discussed.
Laboratory Measurement of Response to Consumer Information
Authors: Winter Frederick W.
Published: December 2018

Laboratory experimental procedures were employed in conjunction with objective measures of information adoption to study consumer responsiveness to price information. Findings suggest that information adoption is facilitated when the information is perceived as new by consumers and is presented in a simplified format; evidence also indicates that a situational variable, time cost, plays a significant role in information adoption.
The Pitfalls of AID Analysis
Authors: Doyle Peter , Fenwick Ian
Published: December 2018

AID is commonly misused and misinterpreted. A complete application of the methodology illustrates the nature of the inevitable problems of the technique and the necessity of validation procedures.
Personality/Life Style and Television Viewing Behavior
Authors: Villani Kathryn E. A.
Published: December 2018

This article reports an empirical study designed to provide advertisers with information concerning the personality and life-style characteristics of television program audiences. The results indicate that audiences are relatively heterogeneous in terms of psychographic characteristics. These variables appear to be of limited value for describing audience composition or predicting viewing behavior.
Modeling an Organizational Buyer's Product Evaluation Strategy: Validity and Procedural Considerations
Authors: Scott Jerome E. , Wright Peter
Published: December 2018

The subjective weights an organizational buyer gave to different cues were estimated by regression procedures with data from an in-office product-concept evaluation task. Multiple validity tests of the estimated weighting coefficients were performed including cross-validations, comparisons with a “known-groups” model, and comparisons with self-reports. The effects on the estimated models of variations in the product-concept profiles used in the task also were examined. The results provide insight on the validity of cue-weighting evidence gathered under field conditions.
Social Comparison and Informal Group Influence
Authors: Moschis George P.
Published: December 2018

Little is known about the basis on which an individual selects and is influenced by specific reference groups. An attempt is made to explain consumer susceptibility to informal group influence by Festinger's theory of social comparison. The results of the study support hypotheses derived from the theory and offer insight into the determination of reference group influence. Marketing implications of this theory are discussed.
The Effects of Trial and Incentives on Repeat Purchase Behavior
Authors: Scott Carol A.
Published: December 2018

Although relatively under-researched, behavioral influence strategies commonly are used by marketers to modify consumer demand. Reported here are the results of a field experiment which tested the effectiveness of trial and incentive behavioral influence strategies. The efficacy of using self-perception theory to explain and predict behavior is assessed.
Evaluating the Statistical Significance of Models Developed by Stepwise Regression
Authors: McIntyre Shelby H. , Montgomery David B. , Srinivasan V. , Weitz Barton A.
Published: December 2018

Information for evaluating the statistical significance of stepwise regression models developed with a forward selection procedure is presented. Cumulative distributions of the adjusted coefficient of determination ([Formula: see text]) under the null hypothesis of no relationship between the dependent variable and m potential independent variables are derived from a Monté Carlo simulation study. The study design included sample sizes of 25, 50, and 100, available independent variables of 10, 20, and 40, and three criteria for including variables in the regression model. The results reveal that the biases involved in testing statistical significance by two well-known rules are very large, thus demonstrating the desirability of using the Monté Carlo cumulative [Formula: see text] distributions developed by the authors. Although the results were derived under the assumption of uncorrelated predictors, the authors show that the results continue to be useful for the correlated predictor case.
Selected Determinants of Consumer Satisfaction and Complaint Reports
Authors: Bearden William O. , Teel Jesse E.
Published: December 2018

Data obtained from 375 members of a consumer panel in a two-phase study of consumer experiences with automobile repairs and services were used to examine the antecedents and consequences of consumer satisfaction. The results support previous findings that expectations and disconfirmation are plausible determinants of satisfaction, and suggest that complaint activity may be included in satisfaction/dissatisfaction research as suggested by earlier descriptions of consumer complaining behavior.
Supervisory Behavior, Role Stress, and the Job Satisfaction of Industrial Salespeople
Authors: Teas R. Kenneth
Published: December 2018

Structural equation analysis was used to replicate and extend previous salesforce role stress research by testing hypotheses about the relationships among sales supervisory behavior, salesforce role stress, and salesforce job satisfaction. On the basis of previous research, four supervisory behavior variables were hypothesized to be related to salesforce role stress—leader consideration, initiation of structure, participation, and feedback. The results indicate sales supervisory behavior is related to salesforce perceptions of role stress. In addition, the estimates indicate role conflict, organizational communication, leader consideration, and leader initiation of structure are significant predictors of salesforce job satisfaction.
A Note on the Reliability of Certain Clustering Algorithms
Authors: Funkhouser G. Ray
Published: December 2018

Cluster analysis is widely used in marketing research, especially in market segmentation studies. Though it is well known that cluster analysis approaches can be unreliable, the author's research suggests that unreliability may be a greater problem than has previously been suggested, especially with approaches involving large numbers of decisions about cluster membership.
Examining the moderating roles of job demands and resources on the relation between work engagement and work–family conflict
Authors: Balogun Anthony G , Afolabi Olukayode A
Published: December 2018

Recently, studies have shown that work engagement is associated with high level of work–family conflict. However, little is known about the factors that can moderate this relationship. Using job demands–resources model as a theoretical framework, this study examined the moderating roles of job demands and resources in the relation between work engagement and work–family conflict among a sample of 156 working mothers in Nigeria. Their ages ranged between 24 and 39 years ( M = 34.09; SD = 7.49). Data were analyzed using moderated hierarchal regression analysis. Results showed that work engagement was positively related to work–family conflict. Job demands and resources significantly moderated the relationship between work engagement and work–family conflict, such that highly work engaged working mothers who experience high job demands with high job resources reported low work–family conflict. The findings suggest that organizations can reduce the negative effect of work engagement on work–family conflict among their employees by reducing or optimizing job demands and providing adequate job resources.
Normalising domestic space heating demand using post hoc models
Authors: Mitchell Rachel , Natarajan Sukumar
Published: December 2018

Current evidence suggests that the energy performance gap between predicted and actual use of energy in buildings is significantly weighted towards under prediction and can be as high as 200%. High-quality modelled and actual data are needed to ensure like for like comparisons when investigating the energy performance gap. Internal temperature ( ti) normalisation is a key process to ensure like for like comparisons but is often hampered by the lack of the original model due to the time lag between design, construction and occupancy. Here, we demonstrate the use of models created after data collection – i.e. post hoc – as a substitute for original models in evaluating the energy performance gap. The robustness of the internal temperature normalisation factor ( fti) is tested using measured data from 20 Passivhaus homes. The data from each home are inputted into 10 Passive House Planning Package and 10 Standard Assessment Procedure models with highly different domestic and non-domestic building configurations, creating 400 model variants. Each variant is further split into four cases of varying internal gains and solar radiation creating a total of 1600 variants. Results demonstrate that fti is resilient to differences in building configuration, solar radiation levels and varying internal gains (SEM < 0.02). Even though SEM increases when measured internal temperatures are below base assumptions, the impact of this error on the computed space heating demand is at most 4%. This suggests that post hoc models can be a substitute for actual models in evaluating the energy performance gap and that limited site data can still yield robust results.

Practical application: Identifying the causes of the energy performance gap (the difference between modelled and measure energy demand) is complex. Normalising space heating demand for internal temperatures means that some differences between modelled and actual space heating demand can be accounted for. Building models such as Passive House Planning Package (PHPP) and Standard Assessment Procedure (SAP) are readily available and allow variations in climate and temperature data to be inputted. This research demonstrates that in practice any PHPP and SAP model can be used for normalisation, not just one that is building specific and that some parameters (internal temperature) are more important than others. This provides a simple and easily accessible approach to temperature normalisation that can be applied by industry to domestic dwellings.
Clarifying the Effect of Test Speededness
Authors: Hong Maxwell R. , Cheng Ying
Published: December 2018

In the context of high-stakes tests, test takers who do not have enough time to complete a test rush toward the end and may engage in speeded behavior when tests do not penalize guessing. Using mathematical derivations and simulations, previous research showed that random guessing responses should attenuate interitem correlations, and therefore, decrease estimates of reliability. Meanwhile, other researchers showed that random guessing could in fact inflate reliability estimates using real data. We provide analytical derivations on how speededness could affect correlations between two dichotomous items in multiple ways, depending on the manifestation and prevalence of test speededness. Furthermore, we provide two simulation studies that evaluate the magnitude of impact of test speededness on interitem correlations and Cronbach’s alpha. We found that the impact of test speededness can vary between item pairs and that it depends on the manifestation of test speededness and item level characteristics. Furthermore, speeded responses will, in general, attenuate or not affect reliability estimates, depending on the prevalence of such responses and conceptual interpretation of speeded responses. Implications of the findings are discussed.
A semantic-based video scene segmentation using a deep neural network
Authors: Ji Hyesung , Hooshyar Danial , Kim Kuekyeng , Lim Heuiseok
Published: December 2018

Video scene segmentation is very important research in the field of computer vision, because it helps in efficient storage, indexing and retrieval of videos. Achieving this kind of scene segmentation cannot be done by just calculating the similarity of low-level features presented in the video; high-level features should also be considered to achieve a better performance. Even though much research has been conducted on video scene segmentation, most of these studies failed to semantically segment a video into scenes. Thus, in this study, we propose a Deep-learning Semantic-based Scene-segmentation model (called DeepSSS) that considers image captioning to segment a video into scenes semantically. First, the DeepSSS performs shot boundary detection by comparing colour histograms and then employs maximum-entropy-applied keyframe extraction. Second, for semantic analysis, using image captioning that benefits from deep learning generates a semantic text description of the keyframes. Finally, by comparing and analysing the generated texts, it assembles the keyframes into a scene grouped under a semantic narrative. That said, DeepSSS considers both low- and high-level features of videos to achieve a more meaningful scene segmentation. By applying DeepSSS to data sets from MS COCO for caption generation and evaluating its semantic scene-segmentation task results with the data sets from TRECVid 2016, we demonstrate quantitatively that DeepSSS outperforms other existing scene-segmentation methods using shot boundary detection and keyframes. What’s more, the experiments were done by comparing scenes segmented by humans and scene segmented by the DeepSSS. The results verified that the DeepSSS’ segmentation resembled that of humans. This is a new kind of result that was enabled by semantic analysis, which was impossible by just using low-level features of videos.
“We are not ignorant”: Transnational migrants’ experiences of racialized securitization
Authors: Ybarra Megan
Published: December 2018

This paper examines the dynamics of racialized securitization for transnational migrants across multiple borders—from Central America toward Mexico and the United States. Rather than a singular process where US policies, funding, and attitudes toward border security direct Mexican immigration enforcement, I argue that Mexican state collaboration redirects US xenophobia away from Mexican migrants and toward Central American migrants. Migrants’ testimonies point to the ways that US and Mexican discourses are mobilized in different—but complementary—ways that shape them as racialized subjects with differential life chances. This is clearest through a crude mapping of people onto nationalities for deportation based on hair, language, and tattoos. Beyond legal violence, deported migrants describe their vulnerability as constructed within tacit networks of collaboration between actors in the US and Mexico, both licit and illicit, in an effort to extort migrants and their families. While race is a key signifier in border securitization, the differences between these racial states have material consequences in the differential state violence in immigration enforcement.
Clinical implementation of a novel myocardial protection pathway in coronary artery bypass surgery with minimal extracorporeal circulation
Authors: Koechlin Luca , Zenklusen Urs , Doebele Thomas , Rrahmani Bejtush , Gahl Brigitta , Berdajs Denis , Grapow Martin T.R. , Eckstein Friedrich S. , Reuthebuch Oliver
Published: December 2018

Introduction:

The aim of this study was to report the clinical implementation of the joint use of the Myocardial Protection System (MPS®) and the minimal extracorporeal circulation system (MiECC), in conjunction with an institutionally refined dose/volume-dependent microplegia in coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG).

Methods:

Patients with isolated CABG surgery were included. The final protocol to achieve cardioplegic arrest consisted of warm blood cardioplegia with 20 mmol potassium (K), 1.6 g magnesium (Mg) and 40 mg lidocaine per liter (L) blood. We prospectively collected intra- and postoperative data to monitor and validate this novel approach.

Results:

Eighty patients were operated accordingly. Mean (SD) aortic clamping time and extracorporeal perfusion time were 67.5 (22.6) and 101.1 (31.9) minutes, respectively. Failure to induce cardiac arrest was seen in six patients at the early stage of refinement of the formula. Median (IQR) high -sensitivity cardiac troponin T (hs-cTnT) on the first postoperative day (POD) and peak hs-cTnT were 262.5 ng/L (194.3–405.8) and 265.5 ng/L (194.3–405.8), respectively. Median (IQR) creatine kinase-myocardial type (CK-MB) on POD 1 and peak CK-MB were 14.2 µg/L (10.5–22.7) and 14.2 µg/L (10.7-23.2), respectively. Median (IQR) creatine kinase (CK) on POD 1 and peak CK were 517.5 U/L (389.3-849.8) and 597.5 U/L (455.0-943.0), respectively. No patient died during hospitalization.

Conclusions:

The combination of this cardioplegic formula with MPS® and MiECC in CABG was safe and feasible. With the final chemical makeup, cardiac arrest was reliably achieved. Remarkably low postoperative cardiac markers indicate shielded cardiac protection during surgery.
The pharmacological management of acute behavioural disturbance: Data from a clinical audit conducted in UK mental health services
Authors: Paton Carol , Adams Clive E , Dye Stephen , Fagan Elizabeth , Okocha Chike , Barnes Thomas RE
Published: December 2018

Background:

A quality improvement programme addressing prescribing practice for acutely disturbed behaviour was initiated by the Prescribing Observatory for Mental Health.

Method:

This study analysed data from a baseline clinical audit conducted in inpatient mental health services in member trusts.

Results:

Fifty-eight mental health services submitted data on 2172 episodes of acutely disturbed behaviour. A benzodiazepine alone was administered in 60% of the 1091 episodes where oral medication only was used and in 39% of the 1081 episodes where parenteral medication (rapid tranquillisation) was used. Haloperidol was combined with lorazepam in 22% of rapid tranquillisation episodes and with promethazine in 3%. Physical violence towards others was strongly associated with receiving rapid tranquillisation in men (odds ratio 1.74, 1.25–2.44; p<0.001) as was actual or attempted self-harm in women (odds ratio 1.87, 1.19–2.94; p=0.007). Where physical violence towards others was exhibited, a benzodiazepine and antipsychotic was more likely to be prescribed than a benzodiazepine alone (odds ratio 1.39, 1.00–1.92; p=0.05). The data suggested that 25% of patients were at least ‘extremely or continuously active’ in the hour after rapid tranquillisation was administered.

Conclusion:

The current management of acutely disturbed behaviour with parenteral medication may fail to achieve a calming effect in up to a quarter of episodes. The most common rapid tranquillisation combination used was lorazepam and haloperidol, for which the randomised controlled trial evidence is very limited. Rapid tranquillisation prescribing practice was not wholly consistent with the relevant National Institute for Health and Care Excellence guideline, which recommends intramuscular lorazepam on its own or intramuscular haloperidol combined with intramuscular promethazine. Clinical factors prompting the use of rapid tranquillisation rather than oral medication may differ between the genders.
Designing a Customer Experience Management Course
Authors: Klink Richard R. , Zhang Jason Q. , Athaide Gerard A.
Published: December 2018

Customer experience is the latest battleground for business. Not only is customer experience management (CXM) one of the most promising approaches to marketing, but some observers also contend it is the future of marketing. While practitioners have embraced CXM for its considerable promise, marketing academicians have lagged in developing and disseminating CXM knowledge. Indeed, considerable evidence suggests that customer experiences are falling far short of company aspirations and customer expectations. To further CXM understanding, we conducted a three-credit undergraduate marketing course on CXM. Given the inherent experiential nature of CXM, we enhanced student learning by including a field immersion component. Specifically, on-campus class sessions were supplemented with a weeklong field immersion at Walt Disney World Resort. Empirical and qualitative evidence indicates that our approach fosters CXM understanding. We conclude by offering potential adaptations to our approach, including teaching CXM within existing coursework, curtailing the field immersion component, and making modifications for a graduate-level course.
New technique for reduction of irreducible anterior glenohumeral shoulder dislocation
Authors: Orbach Hagay , Rozen Nimrod , Rubin Guy
Published: December 2018

Objective

This study was performed to describe a new technique for reduction of anterior glenohumeral dislocation in four non-sedated patients in whom traditional techniques were unsuccessful.

Methods

Four patients with clinically and radiographically proven acute anterior glenohumeral dislocations were admitted to the emergency department. An oral analgesic and local infiltration of lidocaine into the glenohumeral joint were administered prior to the reduction attempts. Four to six reduction attempts using a variety of traditional maneuvers were unsuccessful before applying our technique. The glenohumeral joint was then successfully reduced using our technique and confirmed on radiographs. A sling was placed for post-reduction pain relief.

Results

All four patients underwent successful closed reduction, proven clinically and by radiographs, after the first attempt using our technique. No complications occurred.

Conclusion

Our maneuver provides safe and successful closed reduction for irreducible acute anterior glenohumeral dislocation.