bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Auditor Tenure and Perceived Earnings Quality
Authors: Hohenfels Daniela
Published: August 2016

The study examines how auditor tenure affects investors' perception of audit quality. It is motivated by the ongoing debate on the effect of auditor tenure on audit quality and the recent regulation approval on mandatory auditor rotation at the EU level, which is justified by the concern that longer auditor tenure impairs auditor independence and thus lowers audit quality. Perceived earnings quality, as measured by the earnings response coefficient from returns‐earnings regression, is used as a proxy for investors’ perception of audit quality. Using a sample of 2,320 firm‐year observations from German listed firms between 2006 and 2013, the study provides evidence of a non‐linear relationship between auditor tenure and perceived earnings quality. The results suggest that investors perceive lower earnings quality during the early and later years of an auditor–client relationship. This perception does not change during the investigation period. Furthermore, the results show that earnings quality is perceived as highest when auditor tenure is 8–9 years.
Auditor Size and the Cost of Equity Capital over Auditor Tenure
Authors: Bryan David B. , Reynolds J. Kenneth
Published: August 2016

This study examines whether the difference in the cost of equity capital between clients of large and small auditors (‘the cost of equity capital disparity’) varies with auditor tenure. We find that the cost of equity capital disparity increases over auditor tenure, suggesting a decline in the perceived audit quality of small auditors relative to large auditors as tenure lengthens. The results suggest that this occurs because there is a deterioration in perceived audit quality over tenure for small auditors combined with no change in perceived audit quality over tenure for large auditors. Furthermore, we find that the cost of equity capital disparity does not increase over auditor tenure for industry specialist auditors, implying that auditor specialization may act as a substitute for auditor size in reducing investor concerns about audit quality declining over tenure for small auditors.
Determinants of Quality of Family Planning Counseling among Private Health Facilities in Lagos
Authors: Johnson Doug , Ugaz Jorge
Published: August 2016

We use a unique dataset that includes an objective measure of the quality of family planning counseling from 927 private health facilities in Lagos State, Nigeria, to determine which variables at the facility and provider levels are most closely correlated with the quality of family planning counseling. Our data on quality come from mystery client surveys in which the clients posed as women seeking family planning counseling. We find that quality is strongly associated with the cadre of provider, with doctors delivering substantially higher‐quality counselling than nurses. Doctors not only outperform nurses overall, but also perform better on each category of quality and spend nearly three minutes longer on average counseling the mystery client. Location, fees charged for the service, and facility type are also strongly correlated with quality. The degree to which a facility specializes in family planning and facility size are only weakly predictive of quality.
Novel Loading‐Free Joining Process for YBCO Single‐Grain Bulks
Authors: Yang Chia‐Ming , Huang Yi‐Chang , Chen In‐Gann , Wu Maw‐Kuen
Published: August 2016

We report a novel joint fabrication method for YBa2Cu3O7−x (Y123) bulk superconductors without pressure loading, based on a well‐controlled high‐temperature process. Due to the direction of the heat fluxes in a box furnace, the surfaces of the joined samples melt first, and the crystal morphology of the original YBa2Cu3O7−x bulks remains. After the joining process, part of the texture zone is used as a seed to grow new texture crystals for nucleation during cooling. Finally, a high‐quality artificial grain boundary forms without acting as a weak link, which is supported by the trapped field distribution. Details of the joint are presented, including its microstructure and micro‐orientation. Moreover, the trapped field values at 65 and 45 K are presented.
Physical activity is associated with reduced fatigue in adults living with HIV/AIDS
Authors: Webel Allison R. , Perazzo Joe , Decker Michael , Horvat‐Davey Christine , Sattar Abdus , Voss Joachim
Published: August 2016

Aims

The aim of this study was to describe the relationships among home‐based physical activity, fatigue, sleep, gender and quality of life in people living with HIV/AIDS

Background

Fatigue is a common and distressing symptom among people living with HIV/AIDS. Few interventions exist that effectively reduce fatigue in this population. Physical activity has shown promise to reduce fatigue in other populations, but its impact on fatigue in HIV/AIDS has not yet been explored.

Design

This study was conducted using a prospective, descriptive cohort design.

Methods

Overall, 90 adults living with HIV/AIDS completed cross‐sectional measures. Home‐based physical activity was measured using a 7‐day self‐report diary. Fatigue was measured using the self‐reported HIV‐Related Fatigue Scale. Sleep was assessed using wrist actigraphy and quality of life was assessed using the HIV‐Associated Quality of Life Scale. Data were collected from December 2012–April 2013 and analysed using correlations and multiple linear regression.

Results

The number of minutes of home‐based physical activity was significantly associated with reduced fatigue among people living with HIV/AIDS. In addition, increased fatigue was associated with decreased quality of life. No associations were found among fatigue, sleep or gender.

Conclusions

Our study demonstrates that physical activity in the home setting is an effective strategy to reduce fatigue among people living with HIV/AIDS. Future work developing and testing interventions to improve home‐based physical activity in this population is needed.
Stress and resilience in a post‐Francis world – a qualitative study of executive nurse directors
Authors: Kelly Daniel , Lankshear Annette , Jones Aled
Published: August 2016

Aims

The aim of this study was to explore the role stressors experienced by executive nurse directors and strategies employed to maintain resilience.

Background

Recent financial pressures on and care quality scandals in the UK NHS impact on the work of executive nurse directors. The short length of tenure and the high number of vacancies for these posts point to the exacting demands of the role and raise questions about the support mechanisms available for the most senior nurses in NHS organizations.

Design

A grounded constructivist study.

Methods

Semi‐structured telephone interviews conducted between February–July, 2014.

Results

Stressors were both chronic (workload, lack of corporate responsibility for quality, reductions in quality team staffing, tensions between financial solvency and care quality and personal vulnerability) and acute (dealing with complaints and major incidents). Resilience required the support of fellow executives, peers, family and mentors and could be enhanced by self‐discipline, good preparation for the post and ongoing coaching.

Conclusion

Recent fiscal austerity and scandals relating to quality of care have increased pressure on executive nurse directors. Increasing size of organizations, limited resources devoted to quality combined with poorly defined limits of responsibility are all major stressors and executive nurse directors, both in the United Kingdom and internationally, need clear strategies to maintain resilience. Repetitive demands for data by oversight organizations may detract from more important quality assurance strategies.
Rate and predictors of human papillomavirus vaccine uptake among women who have sex with women in the United States, the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 2009–2012
Authors: Makris Nicole , Vena Catherine , Paul Sudeshna
Published: August 2016

Aims and objectives

To examine rates and associated correlates of human papilloma virus vaccine uptake in women who have sex with women in the United States, and to determine whether they differ from those in women who do not have sex with women.

Background

Women who have sex with women are at risk for human papilloma virus infection but are less likely to receive preventive gynaecological services. Little research has been carried out to evaluate human papilloma virus vaccination rates and associated predictors of vaccination uptake in this population.

Design

Cross‐sectional descriptive study.

Methods

Data from two consecutive cohorts of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey conducted by the United States’ Centers for Disease Control were analysed.

Results

The sample (N = 1105) consisted of women aged 18–26 years. There was no difference in human papilloma virus vaccine uptake between women who have sex with women and women who do not have sex with women. Overall, the vaccination rate was low (32·5%). Having health insurance and more education were significant predictors of vaccine uptake in women who have sex with women. Higher education and younger age were predictors in women who do not have sex with women.

Conclusions

Vaccination rates of women are far lower than the national target of 80%. The predictors of vaccine uptake were different in women who have sex with women than for women who do not have sex with women.

Relevance to clinical practice

Women in their 20s (regardless of their sexual orientation) should be recognised as an undervaccinated population and require targeted interventions to improve vaccination uptake.
Factors contributing to the low physical activity level for Hong Kong Chinese children hospitalised with cancer: an exploratory study
Authors: Lam Katherine KW , Ho Cheung William Li , Ho Ka Yan Eva , Chung Oi Kwan Joyce , Chan Chi Fung Godfrey
Published: August 2016

Aims and objectives

To explore the factors contributing to the low physical activity level for Hong Kong Chinese children hospitalised with cancer.

Background

Notwithstanding the fact that regular physical activity can ameliorate cancer‐related fatigue and other adverse effect of cancer treatment on children's physical and psychological well‐being, physical inactivity is a common problem among children undergoing cancer treatment. Understanding the factors that affect their physical activity level is an important step towards planning and evaluating an appropriate intervention that promotes the adoption and maintenance of regular physical activity.

Design

A phenomenological design was used in this qualitative study.

Methods

A purposive sample of 25 children with cancer was recruited in a paediatric oncology unit of an acute care public hospital in Hong Kong. They were asked to participate in a semistructured interview by their bedside lasting about 30 minutes. All the interviews were tape‐recorded and immediately transcribed. Content analysis was used to analyse the qualitative data.

Results

The findings revealed that the patients’ physical condition, misunderstanding about physical activity by children, parents and healthcare professionals, emotional disturbances and social influences are four important factors impeding children from engaging in regular physical activity during cancer treatment.

Conclusion

This study addresses a gap in the literature by identifying the factors that negatively influence the physical activity levels of Hong Kong Chinese children hospitalised with cancer.

Relevance to clinical practice

Understanding these factors, nurses can explore interventions that target on correcting the misunderstanding and providing relevant information about the importance of physical activity, eventually promoting the adoption and maintenance of regular physical activity and enhancing the quality of life.
Nursing students' spiritual talks with patients – evaluation of a partnership learning programme in clinical practice
Authors: Strand Kari , Carlsen Liv B , Tveit Bodil
Published: August 2016

Aims and objectives

To evaluate the impact of a partnership learning programme designed to support undergraduate nursing students' competence in speaking with patients about spiritual issues.

Background

Spiritual care is an oft‐neglected and underexposed area of nursing practice. Despite the increasing amount of research on spiritual care in educational programmes, little is known about nursing students' experiences with existential/spiritual talks and the process of learning about spiritual care in the clinical placement.

Design

The project used a qualitative evaluation design to evaluate the impact of a partnership‐initiated intervention focusing on student learning of spiritual care in a hospital ward.

Methods

Data were collected through three focus group interviews with bachelor of nursing students from one Norwegian university college and supplemented with notes. Data were analysed by means of qualitative interpretative content analysis.

Results

The intervention was found to enhance students' competence in spiritual talks. The students developed an extended understanding of spirituality, became more confident in speaking with patients about spiritual issues and more active in grasping opportunities to provide spiritual care. Participating nurses significantly contributed to the students’ learning process by being role models, mentoring the students and challenging them to overcome barriers in speaking with patients about spiritual issues.

Conclusions

The partnership learning programme proved to be a useful model in terms of enhancing students’ confidence in speaking with patients about spiritual concerns.

Relevance to clinical practice

Collaboration between nursing university colleges and clinical placements could help nursing students and clinical nurses to develop competencies in spiritual care and bridge the gap between academic education and clinical education, to the benefit of both.
“I Am My Body”. Physical Selves of Police Officers in a Changing Institution
Authors: Courpasson David , Monties Vanessa
Published: August 2016

Most studies on identity work have overlooked the corporeal quality of occupational life. Despite calls to attempt such engagement, little is known about the role of the body in occupations for which corporeal elements are central in the affirmation of identity. This study aims to answer such calls by providing a detailed ethnography of police work. Focusing on four bodily practices, we demonstrate how fitness, intimidation, cleanliness, and toughness are central elements to the officers’ construction of self. We thereby highlight the notion of physical selfhood as a way to understand the body/identity nexus among police officers and their capacity to resist new work requirements. We view bodies through a lens of resistance, rather than docility and compliance as much previous research has done. We aim to contribute to scholarship on identity work by portraying the politicization of bodies as a powerful component, thereby helping professionals to deflect some important institutional pressures affecting their work.
Genetic variation in photosynthetic performance and tolerance to osmotic stress (desiccation, freezing, hyposalinity) in the rocky littoral foundation species Fucus vesiculosus (Fucales, Phaeophyceae)
Authors: Rothäusler Eva , Sjöroos Joakim , Heye Katharina , Jormalainen Veijo
Published: August 2016

Genetic diversity may play an analogous role to species diversity, as it can contribute to ecosystem function and stability, and provision of ecosystem services. In the Baltic Sea, perennial algal beds are often comprised of only Fucus vesiculosus and the amount of genetic variation in fitness‐related traits (i.e., the ability of the alga to photosynthesize or withstand stress) will thus determine the alga's local persistence in a changing environment. To study genetic variation in the crucial traits behind persistence we grew replicate vegetative branches that came from the same genotype in common gardens. We quantified osmotic stress tolerance and recovery responses by exposing branches to desiccation, freezing, and hyposalinity regimens. Our results show that genetic variation among genotypes was apparent for some photosynthetic parameters (maximal electron transport rate, saturation irradiance for electron transport, nonphotochemical quenching) and growth. Algae tolerated freezing (1,440 min at −2.5°C) and hyposalinity (1,560 min at 2.5) well, but did not recover from desiccation (70 min at 12°C, causing ~94% water loss). Furthermore, we found very little if any evidence on genetic variation in tolerance to these stressors. Our results suggest that low salinity and cold winters in the northern marginal populations selected for hyposalinity and freezing tolerant genotypes, possibly eroding genetic variation in tolerance, but that tolerance to harsh desiccation has been lost, likely due to relaxed selection. The overall availability of genetic variation in fitness related traits might be supportive for F. vesiculosus during adaptation to gradual changes of its environment.
Effect of clonazepam and clonidine on primary sleep bruxism: a double‐blind, crossover, placebo‐controlled trial
Authors: Sakai Takuro , Kato Takafumi , Yoshizawa Shuichiro , Suganuma Takeshi , Takaba Masayuki , Ono Yasuhiro , Yoshizawa Ayako , Yoshida Yuya , Kurihara Tatsuya , Ishii Masakazu , Kawana Fusae , Kiuchi Yuji , Baba Kazuyoshi
Published: August 2016

The aim of this study was to assess the acute effects of clonazepam and clonidine on rhythmic masticatory muscle activity in young adults with primary sleep bruxism, as well as accompanying effects on sleep architecture and cardiac activity. This study used a double‐blind, crossover, placebo‐controlled design. Polysomnography was performed on 19 subjects [nine men and 10 women; mean age (±SE): 25.4 ± 2.7 years] for 5 nights. The first 2 nights were used for the habituation and diagnosis of sleep bruxism. The other 3 nights were randomly assigned for clonazepam (1.0 mg), clonidine (0.15 mg) or placebo (all administered 30 min before bedtime). Sleep, oromotor activity and cardiac activity variables were assessed and compared among the three drug conditions. Clonidine significantly reduced the median percentage of time spent in the rapid eye movement sleep stage compared with placebo and clonazepam. The number of rhythmic masticatory muscle activity episodes was reduced with clonidine by >30% compared with placebo and clonazepam. The reduction of rhythmic masticatory muscle activity index by clonidine was associated with an increase of mean RR intervals (slower heart rate) during quiet sleep periods and during a 70‐s period before the onset of rhythmic masticatory muscle activity episodes. However, no changes in cardiac activity variables were observed for clonazepam. In young adults with primary sleep bruxism, clonidine was significantly more effective in suppressing sleep bruxism than clonazepam. The acute effects of clonidine on rhythmic masticatory muscle activity episodes may be mediated by suppression of autonomic nervous system activity and non‐rapid eye movement–rapid eye movement sleep processes.
Testing Macro Models for Policy Use—An Insurrection in Applied Modelling
Authors: Minford Patrick
Published: August 2016

I describe a new departure in classical testing methods based on Indirect Inference. I argue that it gives policymakers, anxious to know if their models give reliable policy conclusions, a way to find out. I discuss how using Monte Carlo experiments my co‐authors and I have found that in the small samples typically available in macroeconomic modelling, the Indirect Inference Wald, IIW, test has considerably more power than the popular direct inference test using the Likelihood Ratio, LR. This is both because the LR is applied after re‐estimation of the model error processes and because the IIW test uses the false model's own restricted distribution for the auxiliary model's coefficients. This greater power allows users to focus this test more narrowly on features of interest, trading off power against tractability. If they can find a model version that is not rejected by the test, they can then discover the robustness of their model results to the parameter variations that might also have passed the test.
Distinction between amorphous and healed planar deformation features in shocked quartz using composite color scanning electron microscope cathodoluminescence (SEM‐CL) imaging
Authors: Hamers Maartje F. , Pennock Gill M. , Herwegh Marco , Drury Martyn R.
Published: August 2016

Planar deformation features (PDFs) in quartz are one of the most reliable and most widely used forms of evidence for hypervelocity impact. PDFs can be identified in scanning electron microscope cathodoluminescence (SEM‐CL) images, but not all PDFs show the same CL behavior: there are nonluminescent and red luminescent PDFs. This study aims to explain the origin of the different CL emissions in PDFs. Focused ion beam (FIB) thin foils were prepared of specific sample locations selected in composite color SEM‐CL images and were analyzed in a transmission electron microscope (TEM). The FIB preparation technique allowed a direct, often one‐to‐one correlation between the CL images and the defect structure observed in TEM. This correlation shows that composite color SEM‐CL imaging allows distinction between amorphous PDFs on one hand and healed PDFs and basal Brazil twins on the other: nonluminescent PDFs are amorphous, while healed PDFs and basal Brazil twins are red luminescent, with a dominant emission peak at 650 nm. We suggest that the red luminescence is the result of preferential beam damage along dislocations, fluid inclusions, and twin boundaries. Furthermore, a high‐pressure phase (possibly stishovite) in PDFs can be detected in color SEM‐CL images by its blue luminescence.
Genomic landscape of early ecological speciation initiated by selection on nuptial colour
Authors: Marques David Alexander , Lucek Kay , Haesler Marcel Philipp , Feller Anna Fiona , Meier Joana Isabel , Wagner Catherine E. , Excoffier Laurent , Seehausen Ole
Published: August 2016

Ecological speciation is the evolution of reproductive isolation as a consequence of direct divergent natural selection or ecologically mediated divergent sexual selection. While the genomic signature of the former has been extensively studied in recent years, only few examples exist for genomic differentiation where environment‐dependent sexual selection has played an important role. Here, we describe a very young (~90 years old) population of threespine sticklebacks exhibiting phenotypic and genomic differentiation between two habitats within the same pond. We show that differentiation among habitats is limited to male throat colour and nest type, traits known to be subject to sexual selection. Divergence in these traits mirrors divergence in much older benthic and limnetic stickleback species pairs from North American west coast lakes, which also occur in sympatry but are strongly reproductively isolated from each other. We demonstrate that in our population, differences in throat colour and breeding have been stable over a decade, but in contrast to North American benthic and limnetic stickleback species, these mating trait differences are not accompanied by divergence in morphology related to feeding, predator defence or swimming performance. Using genomewide SNP data, we find multiple genomic islands with moderate differentiation spread across several chromosomes, whereas the rest of the genome is undifferentiated. The islands contain potential candidate genes involved in visual perception of colour. Our results suggest that phenotypic and multichromosome genomic divergence of these morphs was driven by environment‐dependent sexual selection, demonstrating incipient speciation after only a few decades of divergence in sympatry.
Spatial and successional dynamics of microbial biofilm communities in a grassland stream ecosystem
Authors: Veach Allison M. , Stegen James C. , Brown Shawn P. , Dodds Walter K. , Jumpponen Ari
Published: August 2016

Biofilms represent a metabolically active and structurally complex component of freshwater ecosystems. Ephemeral prairie streams are hydrologically harsh and prone to frequent perturbation. Elucidating both functional and structural community changes over time within prairie streams provides a general understanding of microbial responses to environmental disturbance. We examined microbial succession of biofilm communities at three sites in a third‐order stream at Konza Prairie over a 2‐ to 64‐day period. Microbial abundance (bacterial abundance, chlorophyll a concentrations) increased and never plateaued during the experiment. Net primary productivity (net balance of oxygen consumption and production) of the developing biofilms did not differ statistically from zero until 64 days suggesting a balance of the use of autochthonous and allochthonous energy sources until late succession. Bacterial communities (MiSeq analyses of the V4 region of 16S rRNA) established quickly. Bacterial richness, diversity and evenness were high after 2 days and increased over time. Several dominant bacterial phyla (Beta‐, Alphaproteobacteria, Bacteroidetes, Gemmatimonadetes, Acidobacteria, Chloroflexi) and genera (Luteolibacter, Flavobacterium, Gemmatimonas, Hydrogenophaga) differed in relative abundance over space and time. Bacterial community composition differed across both space and successional time. Pairwise comparisons of phylogenetic turnover in bacterial community composition indicated that early‐stage succession (≤16 days) was driven by stochastic processes, whereas later stages were driven by deterministic selection regardless of site. Our data suggest that microbial biofilms predictably develop both functionally and structurally indicating distinct successional trajectories of bacterial communities in this ecosystem.
RepB proteins of the multipartite Rhizobium leguminosarum bv. trifolii genome discriminate between centromere‐like parS sequences for plasmid segregational stability
Authors: Koper Piotr , Żebracki Kamil , Marczak Małgorzata , Skorupska Anna , Mazur Andrzej
Published: August 2016

The plasmids of the Rhizobiaceae family members and other Alphaproteobacteria are usually large, low copy‐number and contain all elements necessary for active segregation and replication located in one operon comprising repABC genes. The genome of Rhizobium leguminosarum bv. trifolii TA1 (RtTA1) consists of a chromosome and four plasmids (pRleTA1a‐d) with repABC operons. In this work, centromere‐binding RepB proteins of four RtTA1 plasmids were studied. Stability assays of the truncated derivatives of repABC cassettes demonstrated that RepA, RepB proteins and parS‐like elements constituted plasmid partitioning systems, while RepC were sufficient for their replication. Individual RepB proteins bound specifically to centromere‐like parS elements of the parental plasmids, which was crucial step toward the proper segregation of plasmids into daughter cells. RtTA1 RepB proteins formed dimers and oligomers in the solution. The C‐terminal part of RepB was responsible for dimerization, while the domain engaged in parS binding was located in the middle of the protein. It was concluded that the specific interaction between individual RepB proteins and their target sequences together with the substantial diversity of the Rep proteins and parS originating from different plasmids strongly contributed to the coexistence of several plasmids equipped with similar repABC cassettes in the multipartite bacterial genome.
Resident and family member perceptions of cultural diversity in aged care homes
Authors: Xiao Lily Dongxia , Willis Eileen , Harrington Ann , Gillham David , De Bellis Anita , Morey Wendy , Jeffers Lesley
Published: August 2016

Similar to many developed nations, older people living in residential aged care homes in Australia and the staff who care for them have become increasingly multicultural. This cultural diversity adds challenges for residents in adapting to the care home. This study explores: (i) residents' and family members' perceptions about staff and cultural diversity, and (ii) culturally and linguistically diverse residents' and family members' experiences. An interpretive study design employing a thematic analysis was applied. Twenty‐three residents and seven family members participated in interviews. Four themes were identified from interpreting residents and family members' perceptions of the impact of cultural diversity on their adaptation to aged care homes: (i) perceiving diversity as an attraction; (ii) adapting to cross‐cultural communication; (iii) adjusting to diet in the residential care home; and (iv) anticipating individualized psychosocial interactions. The findings have implications for identifying strategies to support staff from all cultural backgrounds in order to create a caring environment that facilitates positive relationships with residents and supports residents to adjust to the care home.
RISKS, RESILIENCE, AND NATURAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT: LESSONS FROM SELECTED FINDINGS†
Authors: GRAFTON R. QUENTIN , LITTLE L. RICHARD
Published: August 2016

We propose ways that resource managers can respond to risk and promote resilience. Based on a selected review of key findings in the literature, we provide three complementary contributions: (i) a justification for an alternative to the consequences by likelihood approach to risk analysis; (ii) an explanation about how to quantitatively use derivatives to mitigate risk in natural resource management; and (iii) approaches to promote resilience in fisheries management, groundwater extraction, and in the use of environmental offsets. Conclusions are offered about how the highlighted research findings could be used by resource managers to generate conservation benefits.
Laserballoon and Cryoballoon Pulmonary Vein Isolation in Persistent and Longstanding Persistent Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: STÖCKIGT FLORIAN , KOHLMANN ANNIKA T. , LINHART MARKUS , NICKENIG GEORG , ANDRIÉ RENÉ P. , BEIERT THOMAS , SCHRICKEL JAN W.
Published: August 2016

Background

Visually guided laserballoon (LB) ablation has recently been introduced for pulmonary vein (PV) isolation (PVI). We analyzed efficacy and safety results of the newly introduced LB ablation technique in patients with persistent and longstanding persistent atrial fibrillation (AF), and compared this with an established standard method using the cryoballoon (CB).

Methods

A total of 35 patients with symptomatic persistent AF underwent LB ablation and were followed‐up for 1 year. Results were compared to 35 patients who underwent CB ablation at the same institution and case matched for age, sex, CHA2DS2‐VASc score, and left atrial volume.

Results

Complete isolation of all PVs was achieved in 68.6% in the LB and 97.1% in the CB group (P < 0.01). No significant differences were found for AF‐free survival after 12 months in the complete cohort of all patients (LB: 53.3% vs CB: 70.4%; P = n.s.) and after excluding patients without complete PVI (LB: 57.8% vs CB: 72.5%; P = n.s.). LB ablation resulted in longer procedure (158.5 ± 37.9 minutes vs 110.9 ± 26.5 minutes; P < 0.01) and fluoroscopy durations (28.4 ± 11.1 minutes vs 23.5 ± 9.4 minutes; P = 0.04.), and a trend toward more major complications (14.3% vs 2.9%; P = n.s.). Procedure durations and complications declined over time and were level with CB‐treated patients when reaching the last quartile of the LB patients.

Conclusion

PVI in patients with persistent AF using the LB or the CB resulted in comparable success rates. Initial prolongations in procedure and safety parameters as a result of a learning curve effect for the LB have to be considered before starting to use this technique.
Bidirectional cross talk between patient‐derived melanoma and cancer‐associated fibroblasts promotes invasion and proliferation
Authors: Izar Benjamin , Joyce Cailin E. , Goff Stephanie , Cho Nancy L. , Shah Parin M. , Sharma Gaurav , Li Jingjing , Ibrahim Nageatte , Gold Jason , Hodi F. Stephen , Garraway Levi A. , Novina Carl D. , Bertagnolli Monica M. , Yoon Charles H.
Published: August 2016

Tumor–stroma interactions are critical for epithelial‐derived tumors, and among the stromal cell types, cancer‐associated fibroblasts (CAFs) exhibit multiple functions that fuel growth, dissemination, and drug resistance. However, these interactions remain insufficiently characterized in non‐epithelial tumors such as malignant melanoma. We generated monocultures of melanoma cells and matching CAFs from patients’ metastatic lesions, distinguished by oncogenic drivers and immunoblotting of characteristic markers. RNA sequencing of CAFs revealed a homogenous epigenetic program that strongly resembled the signatures from epithelial cancers, including enrichment for an epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition (EMT). Melanoma CAFs in monoculture displayed robust invasive behavior while patient‐derived melanoma monocultures showed very little invasiveness. Instead, melanoma cells showed increased invasion when co‐cultured with CAFs. In turn, CAFs showed increased proliferation when exposed to melanoma conditioned media (CM), mediated in part by melanoma‐secreted transforming growth factor‐alpha that acted on CAFs via the epidermal growth factor receptor. This study provides evidence that bidirectional interactions between melanoma and CAFs regulate progression of metastatic melanoma.
Dissociative trance and spirit possession: Challenges for cultures in transition
Authors: Bhavsar Vishal , Ventriglio Antonio , Bhugra Dinesh
Published: August 2016

The cross‐cultural validity of dissociative possession and trance disorders is a matter of some debate, limiting research and meaningful interpretation of prevalence data. Intimate to these concerns is the status of spirit possession categories studied in the social sciences, particularly anthropology. These two categories are phenomenologically related and display similar epidemiological associations. In India, dissociative and conversion disorders are fairly common in clinical settings. There is no doubt that there are true cultural variations in possession and trance disorders. A new framework may enable clinicians to better understand possession states and spirit possession.
Beyond Weber: Conceptualizing an alternative ideal type of bureaucracy in developing contexts
Authors: Ang Yuen Yuen
Published: August 2016

The study of public administration in developing countries requires that we look beyond the Weberian model as the only ideal type of bureaucracy. When we assume that there exists only one gold standard of public administration, all other organizational forms that do not conform to the Weberian ideal are dismissed as corrupt or failed. Drawing on neo‐institutional economics, I introduce an alternative ideal type of bureaucracy found in contemporary China. This model, which I call bureau‐franchising, combines the hierarchical structure of bureaucracy with the high‐powered incentives of franchising. In this system, public agencies can rightfully claim a share of income earned to finance and reward themselves, like entrepreneurial franchisees. Yet distinct from lawless corruption, this self‐financing (or prebendal) behavior is sanctioned and even deliberately incentivized by state rules. Although such a model violates several Weberian tenets of “good” bureaucracy, it harnesses and regulates the high‐powered incentives of prebendalism to ameliorate budgetary and capacity constraints that are common in developing countries like China.
Statistical Analysis Of Mixture Vector Autoregressive Models
Authors: Cavicchioli Maddalena
Published: August 2016

In this paper, we reconsider the mixture vector autoregressive model, which was proposed in the literature for modelling non‐linear time series. We complete and extend the stationarity conditions, derive a matrix formula in closed form for the autocovariance function of the process and prove a result on stable vector autoregressive moving‐average representations of mixture vector autoregressive models. For these results, we apply techniques related to a Markovian representation of vector autoregressive moving‐average processes. Furthermore, we analyse maximum likelihood estimation of model parameters by using the expectation–maximization algorithm and propose a new iterative algorithm for getting the maximum likelihood estimates. Finally, we study the model selection problem and testing procedures. Several examples, simulation experiments and an empirical application based on monthly financial returns illustrate the proposed procedures.
Regional three‐dimensional deformation of human Achilles tendon during conditioning
Authors: Nuri L. , Obst S. J. , Newsham‐West R. , Barrett R. S.
Published: August 2016

Our understanding of in vivo Achilles tendon (AT) conditioning is limited to two‐dimensional ultrasound measures of longitudinal deformation of the whole tendon. This study investigated the regional three‐dimensional (3D) deformation of the AT during conditioning. Eighteen ATs were scanned using 3D freehand ultrasound during 10 successive 25 s submaximal (50%) voluntary isometric plantarflexion contractions. Longitudinal strain was assessed for the whole AT, aponeurosis, and free AT and transverse strain was assessed for the proximal‐, mid‐, and distal‐portions of the free AT. Longitudinal conditioning of the whole AT was primarily driven by creep response of the free AT and transverse conditioning was greatest for the mid‐portion of the free AT. Whole and free AT longitudinal strain increased up to the third contraction and were accompanied by a corresponding reduction in free AT cross‐sectional area (CSA) strain in proximal‐, mid‐, and distal‐portions. No significant changes in aponeurosis strain or tendon volume were detected between contractions. These findings suggest that conditioning alters free AT shape, with increased tendon length attained at the expense of reduction in free AT CSA. Although AT experiences different amounts of strain in different regions, the number of contractions required to reach steady‐state strain during conditioning is uniform throughout the tendon.
Masculinities Through a Cross‐Disciplinary Lens: Lessons from Sociology and Psychology
Authors: Pfeffer Carla A. , Rogalin Christabel L. , Gee Cari A.
Published: August 2016

There are considerable (and growing) bodies of literature within sociology and psychology addressing the various ways in which masculinities are socially constructed and interactional, yet rarely are the two disciplines presented together. In this paper, we provide a selective integrated review of the literatures within psychology and sociology focusing on the social construction of masculinities. Rather than providing an exhaustive overview, this review places selected key sociological and psychological frameworks and empirical findings on masculinities in dialogue, providing insight into areas where scholars of masculinities may benefit from considering cross‐disciplinary incorporation of key findings within their scholarship.
Masculinity and Sexual Violence: Assessing the State of the Field
Authors: Fahlberg Anjuli , Pepper Mollie
Published: August 2016

Despite strong evidence that men perpetrate most acts of sexual violence, little is known about the factors that lead some men to commit such harmful acts. A growing body of feminist scholarship has begun to explore this question, although the disciplinary and geographic breadth of these studies has prevented the development of a cohesive research agenda. This literature review contributes to this task by reviewing the major theoretical contributions to the study of masculinity and sexual violence, detailing some of the ways in which sexual violence aids in the production of masculine individuals, groups, and states. Taken as a whole, we argue that this body of scholarship views sexual violence as a mechanism through which social constructions of masculinity are produced and reproduced, although the forms that this violence takes vary by context. We conclude with a discussion of some of the theoretical and empirical limitations of this research and consider the implications of these findings for public policy.
The Emerging (Social) Neuroscience of SES
Authors: Varnum Michael E. W.
Published: August 2016

Social scientists have long been interested in understanding how socioeconomic status (SES) affects the way people think, feel, and behave. Neuroscience has provided new tools (fMRI, EEG, and ERP) to allow us to answer these questions, demonstrating, for example, that lower SES is linked to stronger mirror neural responses, greater mentalizing, enhanced vigilance to threat, and lesser likelihood to spontaneously infer traits based on limited information. The present paper (i) reviews evidence that SES affects neural responses involved in a wide range of psychological processes, (ii) highlights the value of neural methods in investigations of SES, (iii) discusses cultural neuroscience as a potential framework to understand why SES has the effects it does on the brain, (iv) considers previous developmental neuroscience findings regarding SES and attention in light of cultural neuroscience, and (v) discusses future challenges, opportunities, and questions for this emerging field.
Applying Theories of Communal Motivation to Sexuality
Authors: Muise Amy , Impett Emily A.
Published: August 2016

One important but challenging aspect of maintaining a satisfying romantic relationship is keeping the sexual spark alive. Research suggests the importance of a couple's sexual connection in the maintenance of their relationship, but sustaining high levels of desire for a partner over the course of time can be difficult. In the current review, we argue that one novel approach to understanding how couples might maintain desire and satisfaction over the course of time in their relationships is applying theories of communal motivation to the domain of sexuality. In this line of research, we have demonstrated that people high in sexual communal strength – those who are motivated to be non‐contingently responsive to their partners' sexual needs – are able to sustain higher sexual desire over the course of time and navigate sexual disagreements in a way that maintains both partners' relationship quality. Future research directions include broadening the view of sexual needs to include the need to decline or reject a partner's sexual advances and investigating how partners manage unmet sexual needs.
The skin microbiome in allergen‐induced canine atopic dermatitis
Authors: Pierezan Felipe , Olivry Thierry , Paps Judith S. , Lawhon Sara D. , Wu Jing , Steiner Jörg M. , Suchodolski Jan S. , Rodrigues Hoffmann Aline
Published: August 2016

Background

Studies focusing on next‐generation sequencing of the bacterial 16S rRNA gene have allowed detailed surveys of skin bacterial populations (microbiota) of the skin.

Hypothesis/objectives

This study evaluated temporal changes in the skin microbiota in a canine model of atopic dermatitis.

Animals

Eight atopic dogs previously sensitized with house dust mites (HDM).

Methods

The dogs were topically challenged on the right groin with HDM allergens. Swabs were collected from the challenged and the contralateral nonchallenged sites prior to provocation (pre‐challenge; baseline sample) and on days 1, 7, 14, 21 and 28 after allergen challenge. The 16S rRNA gene was amplified, sequenced and analysed. Staphylococcus spp. and Staphylococcus pseudintermedius were quantified with quantitative PCR (RT‐qPCR).

Results

Skin lesions developed in all dogs on the challenged sites. Differences in bacterial groups were observed on the challenged site over time. Relatively lower abundances of Fusobacteriaceae on Day 7, and, based on LEfSe, increased abundances of Corynebacteriaceae on Day 1, and Staphylococcaceae on days 7, 14 and 21, were observed on the challenged site, compared to the contralateral site. Results of RT‐qPCR correlated with those of next‐generation sequencing, with significantly increased numbers of Staphylococcus spp. and S. pseudintermedius on Day 21, and days 7 and 21 on the challenged site compared to the contralateral site, respectively.

Conclusions and clinical importance

This study demonstrates that an allergen challenge in sensitized dogs leads to bacterial dysbiosis with increased abundance of S. pseudintermedius at the site of lesion induction.
Postoperative Complications and Short‐Term Outcome Following Single‐Session Bilateral Corrective Surgery for Medial Patellar Luxation in Dogs Weighing <15 kg: 50 Cases (2009–2014)
Authors: Gallegos Javier , Unis Marcos , Roush James K. , Agulian Lori
Published: August 2016

Objective

To assess complication rates and short‐term outcome in small dogs with bilateral medial patellar luxation (MPL) undergoing single‐session bilateral corrective surgery.

Study Design

Retrospective case series.

Animals

Dogs weighing <15 kg with congenital bilateral MPL that underwent single‐session bilateral corrective surgery (n = 50).

Methods

Surgical procedures for MPL correction included trochlear wedge recession (TWR), crest transposition, lateral imbrication, and medial fascial release. Complication rates were correlated with number of surgical procedures, weight, whether or not a bandage was applied postoperatively, and surgeon experience (ACVS Diplomate vs resident). Results were compared with the most recent study evaluating single‐session bilateral corrective surgery for MPL.

Results

Overall complication rate was 22% (11 of 50 dogs). Implant failure occurred in 2 dogs (3 stifles) requiring revision. Grade 1 patella reluxation was the most common minor complication at 10% (5/50). Overall complication and reluxation rates were similar to previous studies. There were no intraoperative complications after performing TWR in small dogs.

Conclusion

Single‐session bilateral corrective surgery for MPL is well tolerated in small dogs with complication rates historically similar to dogs undergoing unilateral or staged bilateral surgery. With individual case assessment, single‐session surgery could be offered to owners, allowing one anesthetic episode and potentially lowering the chance for morbidity. Further studies, ideally prospective studies, are needed to assess long‐term outcome following single‐session bilateral corrective surgery for MPL.
Speech recognition interference by the temporal and spectral properties of a single competing talker
Authors: Fogerty Daniel , Xu Jiaqian
Published: August 2016

This study investigated how speech recognition during speech-on-speech masking may be impaired due to the interaction between amplitude modulations of the target and competing talker. Young normal-hearing adults were tested in a competing talker paradigm where the target and/or competing talker was processed to primarily preserve amplitude modulation cues. Effects of talker sex and linguistic interference were also examined. Results suggest that performance patterns for natural speech-on-speech conditions are largely consistent with the same masking patterns observed for signals primarily limited to temporal amplitude modulations. However, results also suggest a role for spectral cues in talker segregation and linguistic competition.
High-order hidden Markov model for piecewise linear processes and applications to speech recognition
Authors: Lee Lee-Min , Jean Fu-Rong
Published: August 2016

The hidden Markov models have been widely applied to systems with sequential data. However, the conditional independence of the state outputs will limit the output of a hidden Markov model to be a piecewise constant random sequence, which is not a good approximation for many real processes. In this paper, a high-order hidden Markov model for piecewise linear processes is proposed to better approximate the behavior of a real process. A parameter estimation method based on the expectation-maximization algorithm was derived for the proposed model. Experiments on speech recognition of noisy Mandarin digits were conducted to examine the effectiveness of the proposed method. Experimental results show that the proposed method can reduce the recognition error rate compared to a baseline hidden Markov model.