bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Role of Job Satisfaction in Transitions into Self–Employment
Authors: Guerra Giuliano , Patuelli Roberto
Published: September 2014

Self–employment is often seen as an attractive alternative to wage employment, despite lower welfare protection, higher risks, and more required effort than in the latter. It is then important to investigate why individuals choose self–employment. In addition to potential earnings, other factors may be considered, including displacement, uncertainty, unemployment risk, and dissatisfaction. Building on a job quits model, we propose an empirical representation of transitions to self–employment, which includes subjective evaluations of pecuniary and nonpecuniary satisfaction on the previous job. Additionally, we focus on the dynamics of job satisfaction, highlighting the role played by shocks in subjective evaluations.
Relationship Education and Classroom Climate Impact on Adolescents' Standards for Partners/Relationships
Authors: Ma Yanling , Pittman Joe F. , Kerpelman Jennifer L. , Adler‐Baeder Francesca
Published: September 2014

The effectiveness of relationship education has been supported for youth in correcting faulty relationship beliefs and forming conflict management skills; however, there is very limited research addressing whether relationship education matters for building or modifying relationship standards for romantic partners or relationships. Furthermore, whether and how social climate could add to or moderate curriculum effects has not been considered. Using a sample of 1,808 students nested in 106 high school family and consumer science classes in a southern state, this study examined the impact of a general youth‐focused relationship education curriculum and classroom social climate on one ideal standard for relationship partners, warmth/trustworthiness, and one for romantic relationships, intimacy/loyalty. Findings revealed significant and positive curriculum main effects on both standards, while controlling for classroom context. The model for warmth/trustworthiness also showed classroom effects adding to curriculum effects. The role of classroom factors needs further consideration as curriculum effects are examined.
Engineering specificity in a dynamic protein complex with a single conserved mutation
Authors: Bashir Qamar , Meulenbroek Elisabeth M. , Pannu Navraj S. , Ubbink Marcellus
Published: September 2014

It has been demonstrated that the complex of yeast cytochrome c (Cc) and cytochrome c peroxidase (CcP) exists as a delicate equilibrium of a specific, active state and the non‐specific, dynamic encounter state. An ortholog of yeast Cc, horse Cc, binds CcP but forms a much more dynamic complex, as demonstrated by NMR spectroscopy. A single conservative mutation of lysine 13 to arginine reduces the dynamics and enhances the specificity. The crystal structure of the stereospecific complex resembles the yeast Cc–CcP complex. In contrast, the K13A mutation increases the dynamic nature of the complex with CcP, showing that specificity in a redox protein complex can depend on the interactions of a single side chain in the binding interface.

Structured digital abstract

hCc and yCcP bind by nuclear magnetic resonance (1, 2, 3)

hCc and yCcP bind by x-ray crystallography (View interaction)
Epigenetic inactivation of transforming growth factor‐β1 target gene HEYL, a novel tumor suppressor, is involved in the P53‐induced apoptotic pathway in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Kuo Kung‐Kai , Jian Shu‐Fang , Li Yi‐Jin , Wan Shi‐Wei , Weng Ching‐Chieh , Fang KuanTe , Wu Deng‐Chyang , Cheng Kuang‐Hung
Published: September 2014

Aim

Hairy/enhancer‐of‐split related with YRPW motif‐like (HEYL) protein was first identified as a transcriptional repressor. It is a downstream gene of the Notch and transforming growth factor‐β pathways. Little is known about its role in the pathogenesis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

Methods

Eighty surgically resected paired HCC and adjacent non‐cancerous tissues were analyzed for HEYL expression by reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT–qPCR) and immunohistochemistry (IHC). HCC cells were transfected with pHEYL‐EGFP vector to overexpress the HEYL gene or infected with specific shHEYL lentiviral vector to silence HEYL gene expression. HEYL expressional analysis and functional characterization were assessed by 3‐(4 5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2 5‐diphenyltetrazolium bromide assays, flow cytometry, RT–qPCR, western blotting and methylation‐specific PCR.

Results

We determined that HEYL expression was inactivated in more than 75% of HCC. In addition, overexpression of HEYL in SK‐Hep 1 cells caused apoptosis by the cleavage of caspase 3 and poly (ADP‐ribose) polymerase. We discovered that HEYL apoptosis was preceded by serine 15 phosphorylation and accumulation of P53. Molecular analysis revealed that HEYL overexpression led to increased p16, p19, p21, p27 and Bad protein expression, and reduced c‐Myc, Bcl‐2 and Cyclin B1 expression. Epigenetic silencing of HEYL expression by DNA hypermethylation in HCC directly correlated with loss of HEYL expression in HCC.

Conclusion

HEYL is frequently downregulated by promoter methylation in HCC. HEYL may be a tumor suppressor of liver carcinogenesis through upregulation of P53 gene expression and activation of P53‐mediated apoptosis.
Valorisation of theanine from decaffeinated tea dust in bakery functional food
Authors: Culetu Alina , Héritier Julien , Andlauer Wilfried
Published: September 2014

Nowadays, consumers appreciate the positive properties of decaffeinated tea for their well‐being. During decaffeination process, a very fine tea dust powder is obtained as by‐product, which contains the same quantity of bioactives as decaffeinated tea: the antioxidant polyphenols and the amino acid theanine. The aim was to add value to theanine gained from black tea powder dust and to develop theanine‐enriched bread. A theanine containing powder was obtained by column separation of decaffeinated tea dust extract and spray‐drying using carrier supports. This powder contains also the very polar compounds from decaffeinated tea such as amino acids, sugars and minerals. Breads with 110, 220 and 330 ppm of theanine, respectively, were prepared with the theanine powder. Physical properties, theanine and total polyphenolic content in bread were analysed. Bread and other bakery food serve as good products to add value to bioactive tea dust ingredients.
Taxpayers' Behavioural Responses and Measures of Tax Compliance ‘Gaps’: A Critique and a New Measure
Authors: Gemmell Norman , Hasseldine John
Published: September 2014

The work of Feldstein (1995 and 1999) has stimulated substantial conceptual and empirical advances in economists' approaches to analysing taxpayers' behavioural responses to changes in tax rates. Meanwhile, a largely independent literature proposing and applying alternative measures of tax compliance has also developed in recent years, which has sought to provide tax agencies with tools to identify the extent of tax non‐compliance as a first step to designing policies to improve compliance. In this context, measures of ‘tax gaps’ – the difference between actual tax collected and the potential tax collection under full compliance with the tax code – have become the primary measures of tax non‐compliance via (legal) avoidance and/or (illegal) evasion. In this paper, we argue that the tax gap as conventionally defined is conceptually flawed because it fails to incorporate behavioural responses by taxpayers. We show that conventional tax gap measures, which ignore the presence of behavioural responses, exaggerate the degree of non‐compliance. This potentially applies both to indirect taxes (such as the ‘VAT gap’) and direct (income) taxes. Further, where these conventional tax gap measures motivate reforms designed to increase the tax compliance rate, they will likely have a tax‐base‐reducing effect and hence generate a smaller increase in realised tax revenues than would be anticipated from the tax gap estimate.
The Housing Market in the United Kingdom: Effects of House Price Volatility on Households
Authors: Chandler Daniel , Disney Richard
Published: September 2014

This paper describes the economics of the housing market and explains why house prices are likely to be more volatile than prices in other markets. It illustrates the volatility of house prices relative to some other key economic variables in the UK. The paper then considers the implications of variability in house prices for household behaviour, surveying a number of studies for the UK and elsewhere on the effects of house price volatility on consumption spending, indebtedness, labour supply, and entry to and exit from the homeownership market.
Testicular cancer and sperm DNA damage: short‐ and long‐term effects of antineoplastic treatment
Authors: Paoli D. , Gallo M. , Rizzo F. , Spanò M. , Leter G. , Lombardo F. , Lenzi A. , Gandini L.
Published: September 2014

The aim of this study was to investigate sperm DNA damage induced by chemo‐ and radiotherapy in patients with testicular cancer to provide data on the extent and persistence of nuclear damage that might affect individual reproductive potential. We evaluated pre‐ and post‐antineoplastic treatment sperm DNA integrity, expressed as DNA Fragmentation Index (DFI), in a large caseload of testicular cancer patients by sperm chromatin structure assay. The mean total DFI for all patients at T0 was 18.0 ± 12.5%. Sperm chromatin profile was markedly impaired at T3 (27.7 ± 17.4%) and T6 (23.2 ± 15.3%), improving considerably at T12 and T24 (14.0 ± 8.9% and 14.4 ± 10.3%). After chemotherapy, we found a marked increase in DFI at T3 and T6 and a significant reduction at T12 and T24 in comparison with the baseline. In contrast, DFI increased at T3 and T6 after radiotherapy but the subsequent reduction was far less marked, reaching baseline values at T12 and T24. Finally, post‐treatment DNA damage was not age or histotype dependent, but was more marked in the advanced stage of cancer. In this study, we showed that the chromatin profile may be affected in the months immediately following the end of the treatment, improving after 12–24 months. Our results thus indicate that post‐treatment DNA damage is influenced both by the type and intensity of the therapy and by the pathological and clinical stage of the disease.
Sodium nitroprusside suppresses male fertility in vitro
Authors: Rahman M. S. , Kwon W.‐S. , Lee J.‐S. , Kim J. , Yoon S.‐J. , Park Y.‐J. , You Y.‐A. , Hwang S. , Pang M.‐G.
Published: September 2014

Sodium nitroprusside is a nitric oxide donor involved in the regulation of the motility, hyperactivation, capacitation, and acrosome reaction (AR) of spermatozoa. However, the molecular mechanism underlying this regulation has not yet been elucidated. Therefore, this study was designed to evaluate the molecular basis for the effects of sodium nitroprusside on different processes in spermatozoa and its consequences on subsequent oocyte fertilization and embryo development. In this in vitro study, mouse spermatozoa were incubated with various concentrations of sodium nitroprusside (1, 10, and 100 μm) for 90 min. Our results showed that sodium nitroprusside inhibited sperm motility and motion kinematics in a dose‐dependent manner by significantly enhancing intracellular iron and reactive oxygen species (ROS), and decreasing Ca2+, and adenosine triphosphate levels in spermatozoa. Moreover, short‐term exposure of spermatozoa to sodium nitroprusside increased the tyrosine phosphorylation of sperm proteins involved in PKA‐dependent regulation of intracellular calcium levels, which induced a robust AR. Finally, sodium nitroprusside significantly decreased the rates of fertilization and blastocyst formation during embryo development. Based on these results, we propose that sodium nitroprusside increases ROS production and precocious AR may alter overall sperm physiology, leading to poor fertilization and compromised embryonic development.
Efficacy of Amiodarone in Patients with Atrial Fibrillation with and without Left Ventricular Dysfunction: A Pooled Analysis of AFFIRM and AF‐CHF Trials
Authors: CADRIN‐TOURIGNY JULIA , WYSE D.G. , ROY DENIS , BLONDEAU LUCIE , LEVESQUE SYLVIE , TALAJIC MARIO , ANDRADE JASON G. , DUBUC MARC , THIBAULT BERNARD , GUERRA PETER G. , MACLE LAURENT , RIVARD LENA , KHAIRY PAUL
Published: September 2014

Amiodarone for Atrial Fibrillation

Introduction

Despite amiodarone's established safety profile in the setting of heart failure, it is unknown whether its impact on cardiovascular outcomes in patients with atrial fibrillation is modulated by left ventricular function.

Methods and Results

A pooled analysis of 3,307 patients (age 68.0 ± 0.2 years; 31.1% female) enrolled in AFFIRM and AF‐CHF trials was conducted to assess the effect of rhythm control with amiodarone on cardiovascular outcomes, according to left ventricular systolic function. In amiodarone‐treated patients (N = 1,107), freedom from recurrent atrial fibrillation was 84% and 45% at 1 and 5 years, respectively, with no differences according to left ventricular function (P = 0.8754). Similarly, the adjusted proportion of time spent in atrial fibrillation (15.0 ± 1.8%) did not vary according to ventricular function (P = 0.6094). Over 40.0 ± 0.3 months of follow‐up, 1,963 (59.4%) patients required at least one hospitalization, 1,401 (42.6%) of whom had cardiovascular‐related hospitalizations. Adjusted all‐cause and cardiovascular hospitalization rates were similar with amiodarone versus rate control in all patients and in subgroups with and without severe left ventricular dysfunction. A total of 729 (22.0%) patients died, 498 (15.1%) from cardiovascular causes. Adjusted all‐cause and cardiovascular mortality rates were similar with amiodarone versus rate control overall and in subgroups with and without severe left ventricular dysfunction.

Conclusion

Amiodarone's efficacy in maintaining sinus rhythm and reducing the burden of atrial fibrillation is similar in the presence or absence of severe left ventricular dysfunction. Rhythm control with amiodarone is associated with comparable hospitalization and mortality rates to rate control in patients with and without left ventricular dysfunction.
Some Conceptual Issues in Observed‐Score Equating
Authors: van der Linden Wim J.
Published: September 2014

In spite of all of the technical progress in observed‐score equating, several of the more conceptual aspects of the process still are not well understood. As a result, the equating literature struggles with rather complex criteria of equating, lack of a test‐theoretic foundation, confusing terminology, and ad hoc analyses. A return to Lord's foundational criterion of equity of equating, a derivation of the true equating transformation from it, and mainstream statistical treatment of the problem of estimating the transformation for various data‐collection designs exist as a solution to the problem.
Comments on van der Linden's Critique and Proposal for Equating
Authors: Holland Paul W.
Published: September 2014

While agreeing with van der Linden (this issue) that test equating needs better theoretical underpinnings, my comments criticize several aspects of his article. His examples are, for the most part, worthless; he does not use well‐established terminology correctly; his view of 100 years of attempts to give a theoretical basis for equating is unreasonably dismissive; he exhibits no understanding of the role of the synthetic population for anchor test equating for the nonequivalent groups with anchor test design; he is obtuse regarding the condition of symmetry, requiring it of the estimand but not of the estimator; and his proposal for a foundational basis for all test equating, the “true equating transformation,” allows a different equating function for every examinee, which is way past what equating actually does or hopes to achieve. Most importantly, he appears to think that criticism of others is more important than improved insight that moves a field forward based on the work of many other theorists whose contributions have improved the practice of equating.
The Double Entendre of Juvenile Prostitution: Victim versus Delinquent and the Necessity of State Uniformity
Authors: Fichtelman Ellen B.
Published: September 2014

Under the federal Trafficking Victims Protection Act (TVPA), minors performing commercial sex acts are deemed victims of human trafficking; however, prosecutors and judges continue to charge and adjudicate minors as prostitution offenders rather than as sexually exploited youth. To stop the perpetuation and victimization of sexually exploited children, states must join the movement in reform to match the standards of the TVPA. The federal law presumes that minors charged with prostitution are victims rather than criminals and are in need of specialized social services. To protect victims of sex trafficking, states should pass legislation in line with the TVPA, creating a presumption of immunity for all prostituted minors.
FRICTIONS AND THE CONTRIBUTION OF INVENTORY TO SHAREHOLDER WEALTH
Authors: Beauchamp Charles F. , Hardin William G. , Hill Matthew D. , Lawrey Chris M.
Published: September 2014

Shareholder wealth effects associated with inventory are examined. Initial results indicate a positive and significant relation between shareholder wealth and inventory. Additional findings suggest that operating conditions, financial constraints, and working capital behavior influence the value of inventory. These findings are consistent with tactical and strategic decisions influencing managers to hold inventory. Overall, the results suggest that shareholders price the strategic advantages accompanying inventory.
Using Photovoice to Explore Nigerian Immigrants’ Eating and Physical Activity in the United States
Authors: Turk Melanie T. , Fapohunda Abimbola , Zoucha Rick
Published: September 2014

Purpose

African immigrants are one of the fastest growing immigrant groups to the United States; there is a crucial need to learn about African immigrants’ beliefs and lifestyle behaviors that may impact health. The purposes of this study were to (a) explore the perceptions and practices of Nigerian immigrants regarding healthy eating and physical activity in the United States; (b) assess the influence of cultural beliefs of Nigerian immigrants on eating and physical activity; (c) describe the role that healthcare providers can play in helping to promote healthy eating and physical activity; and (d) evaluate the feasibility and efficacy of using Photovoice to collect data on the perceptions and practices of Nigerian immigrants regarding healthy eating and physical activity.

Design

Qualitative visual ethnography using Photovoice.

Methods

Thirteen Nigerian immigrants were recruited. Data were collected using photography and focus group discussions at a church. Photovoice methodology and Leininger's four phases of qualitative analysis were used to analyze photographs, field notes, and focus group transcripts.

Findings

Four overarching themes emerged from the data: moderation is healthy, Nigerian ways of living are healthy, acquiring American ways is unhealthy, and cultural context is important to promote healthy behaviors.

Conclusions

Photovoice was a feasible, effective methodology for collecting data on the perceptions and practices of Nigerian immigrants. Nigerian participants believed that adherence to traditional dietary and activity practices are healthy. Nurses and other healthcare providers must make concerted efforts to communicate with and educate Nigerian immigrants about healthful eating and activity behaviors within their cultural context.

Clinical Relevance

The number of African immigrants to the United States has increased dramatically. Photovoice is a creative method to learn about the health beliefs and behaviors of the Nigerian immigrant population.
Credit Card Indebtedness and Psychological Well‐Being Over Time: Empirical Evidence from a Household Survey
Authors: SHEN SHUYING , SAM ABDOUL G. , JONES EUGENE
Published: September 2014

While a number of studies have investigated the relationship between debt and psychological well‐being, none so far has explored if and how this relationship evolves over time. We seek to fill this gap in the literature by empirically analyzing the impact of household credit card debt on debt stress. Using cross‐sectional data collected by The Ohio State University's Consumer Finance Monthly survey between August 2008 and December 2010, we construct a debt stress index and categorize households into three groups based on the length of credit card indebtedness. Our empirical results provide statistical evidence of time‐varying impacts of credit card debt on stress levels. Specifically, we find that debt stress for short‐run debtors is more than twice that of long‐run debtors. The results are robust across a range of econometric specifications.
The Value of Control and the Costs of Illiquidity
Authors: ALBUQUERQUE RUI , SCHROTH ENRIQUE
Published: September 2014

We develop a search model of block trades that values the illiquidity of controlling stakes. The model considers several dimensions of illiquidity. First, following a liquidity shock, the controlling blockholder is forced to sell, possibly to a less efficient acquirer. Second, this sale may occur at a fire sale price. Third, absent a liquidity shock, a trade occurs only if a potential buyer arrives. Using a structural estimation approach and U.S. data on trades of controlling blocks of public corporations, we estimate the value of control, blockholders' marketability discount, and dispersed shareholders' illiquidity‐spillover discount.
Ovarian steroid cell tumor, not otherwise specified, producing testosterone
Authors: Mizoguchi Mika , Minami Sawako , Yamamoto Madoka , Tanizaki Yuko , Kobayashi Aya , Ino Kazuhiko
Published: September 2014

Steroid cell tumor, not otherwise specified, is a rare type of ovarian sex cord‐stromal tumor with malignant potential. Some of these tumors produce testosterone. We describe a case of steroid cell tumor of the ovary associated with virilization. A 23‐year‐old nulliparous woman was found to have an ovarian tumor when she visited her primary doctor for virilization and oligomenorrhea. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed a solid left ovarian tumor 40 mm in size. Her laboratory data revealed elevated testosterone with normal levels of gonadotropins, estradiol, dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate and cortisol. She underwent left adnexectomy. On histopathologic and immunohistochemical analyses, the tumor was diagnosed as steroid cell tumor, not otherwise specified, without malignant behavior. After removal of the tumor, serum testosterone level decreased, and there have been no signs of recurrence.
Private Financial Transfers, Family Income, and the Great Recession
Authors: Gottlieb Aaron , Pilkauskas Natasha , Garfinkel Irwin
Published: September 2014

Using longitudinal data from the Fragile Families and Child Wellbeing Study (N = 4,701; 1998–2010), the authors studied whether the unemployment rate was associated with private financial transfers (PFTs) among urban families with young children and whether family income moderated these associations. They found that an increase in the unemployment rate was associated with greater PFT receipt and that family income moderated the association. Poor and near‐poor mothers experienced increases in PFT receipt when unemployment rates were high, whereas mothers with incomes between 2 and 3 times the poverty threshold experienced decreases. Simulations estimating the impact of the Great Recession suggest that moving from 5% to 10% unemployment is associated with a 9‐percentage‐point increase in the predicted probability of receiving a PFT for the sample as a whole, with greater increases in predicted probabilities among poor and near‐poor mothers.
Parental Migration and Education of Left‐Behind Children: A Comparison of Two Settings
Authors: Lu Yao
Published: September 2014

The out‐migration of parents has become a common childhood experience worldwide. It can confer both economic benefits and social costs on children. Despite a growing literature, the circumstances under which children benefit or suffer from parental out‐migration are not well understood. The present study examined how the relationship between parental out‐migration and children's education varies across migration streams (internal vs. international) and across 2 societies. Data are from the Mexican Family Life Survey (N = 5,719) and the Indonesian Family Life Survey (N = 2,938). The results showed that children left behind by international migrant parents are worse off in educational attainment than those living with both parents. Internal migration of parents plays a negative role in some cases, though often to a lesser degree than international migration. In addition, how the overall relationship between parental migration and education balances out varies by context: It is negative in Mexico but generally small in Indonesia.
Economic Strain and Children's Behavior in the Aftermath of the Great Recession
Authors: Jeanne Leininger Lindsey , Kalil Ariel
Published: September 2014

Families across the income spectrum experienced subjective feelings of economic strain during the Great Recession. Existing evidence suggests that much of that economic strain did not arise from individual‐specific economic shocks, such as unemployment or income loss, as much as it did from worry and uncertainty about the future. The authors tested a model in which a measure of subjective perceptions of economic strain was the key predictor of children's behavior problems and objective indicators of economic experiences were treated as control variables. To do so, they used new data from a population‐based sample of children ages 4–17 (N = 303) living in southeast Michigan during the period 2009–2012. They found that economic strain exhibited a qualitatively large independent association with internalizing behavior problems for White—but not Black—children. This association was statistically significant over and above objective indicators of economic experiences and the family psychosocial context.
Couple Longevity in the Era of Same‐Sex Marriage in the United States
Authors: Rosenfeld Michael J.
Published: September 2014

The author used a new longitudinal data set, the How Couples Meet and Stay Together surveys (N = 3,009), to generate the first nationally representative comparison of same‐sex couple stability and heterosexual couple stability in the United States. He measured the association between marriage (by several definitions of marriage) and couple longevity for same‐sex couples in the United States. Reports of same‐sex relationship instability in the past were due in part to the low rate of marriages among same‐sex couples. After controlling for marriage and marriage‐like commitments, the break‐up rate for same‐sex couples was comparable to (and not statistically distinguishable from) the break‐up rate for heterosexual couples. The results revealed that same‐sex couples who had a marriage‐like commitment had stable unions regardless of government recognition. A variety of predictors of relationship dissolution for heterosexual and for same‐sex couples are explored.
Self‐Concept Structure and the Quality of Self‐Knowledge
Authors: Showers Carolin J. , Ditzfeld Christopher P. , Zeigler‐Hill Virgil
Published: September 2014

This article explores the hidden vulnerability of individuals with compartmentalized self‐concept structures by linking research on self‐organization to related models of self‐functioning. Across three studies, college students completed self‐descriptive card sorts as a measure of self‐concept structure and either the Contingencies of Self‐Worth Scale, Likert ratings of perceived authenticity of self‐aspects, or a response latency measure of self‐esteem accessibility. In all, there were 382 participants (247 females; 77% White, 6% Hispanic, 5% Black, 5% Asian, 4% Native American, and 3% other). Consistent with their unstable self‐evaluations, compartmentalized individuals report greater contingencies of self‐worth and describe their experience of multiple self‐aspects as less authentic than do individuals with integrative self‐organization. Compartmentalized individuals also make global self‐evaluations more slowly than do integrative individuals. Together with previous findings on self‐clarity, these results suggest that compartmentalized individuals may experience difficulties in how they know the self, whereas individuals with integrative self‐organization may display greater continuity and evaluative consistency across self‐aspects, with easier access to evaluative self‐knowledge.
Process Technology Sourcing and the Innovation Context
Authors: Allred Brent B. , Swan K. Scott
Published: September 2014

We employ transaction cost economics (TCE) and inspiration from technology innovation management to advance a model of technology sourcing governance and performance in the international environment. We hypothesize that the innovation context moderates the relationship between process technology sourcing and performance. The innovation context is defined as external factors reflected in the appropriability regime and whether the industry is characterized by a dominant design. Moreover, we suggest that, contingent upon the innovation context, subsidiaries prefer internal development to secure a positional advantage. A multi‐industry sample of 105 subsidiaries is used to test the hypotheses. We find support for a contextual model linking process technology sourcing strategy to subsidiary performance. Motivated by TCE, we find tentative evidence for a preference order of technology sourcing beginning with internal development and ending with market sourcing, particularly when the appropriability regime is weak.
Biotechnology Commercialization Strategies: Risk and Return in Interfirm Cooperation
Authors: Fernald Kenneth , Pennings Enrico , Claassen Eric
Published: September 2014

The management and exploitation of biotechnological product innovation have proven to be more difficult than initially expected because the number of currently marketed biotechnological products is far from sufficient to counter deficits in pharmaceutical innovation. This study provides insight into the role of governance structures in interfirm cooperation and their effects on biotechnological product innovation and company success. Most of the existing literature regarding alliances and mergers and acquisitions (M&A) examines their effects on technology recipients' innovation performance. Here, the effects of alliances and M&A on both the innovation success and financial performance of technology suppliers (i.e., sources) are examined. Drawing from a sample of 220 human therapeutic biotechnology and biopharmaceutical firms over a period of 32 years (1980–2011), an analysis of the effects of biotechnology clusters, strategic alliances, and acquisitions is provided. This study reveals the existence of a risk‐return trade‐off for strategic alliances between biotech companies and larger, more established firms. Increased biotech company involvement in product development alliances decreases risk by increasing the likelihood of future product introductions. The trade‐off, however, is that biotech companies earn lower returns when their products are developed through such alliances. A similar risk‐return trade‐off effect is found for clusters. However, acquisitions generally affect both product introductions and product returns in a negative way. These findings have strategic implications not only for managing the development of biotechnological product innovations and technology platforms but also for commercialization strategies with respect to interfirm cooperation and risk reduction.
Taiwan's National Policies for Children in Special Education: Comparison with UNCRPD, Core Concepts, and the American IDEA
Authors: Chiu Chun‐Yu , Turnbull H. Rutherford
Published: September 2014

The goals for special education policy in Taiwan are to enable students with disabilities to develop their capacities to the fullest, have equal opportunity to access an effective education, live independently, fully participate in their communities, and become economically as self‐sufficient as possible, thereby contributing to their communities in various ways. The authors compare these policies to three conceptual models, one international and two national, and ask: (1) to what extent do these policies have congruence with the recently promulgated United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD) (a document that declares rights in an arguably culturally neutral way)? (2) to what extent are they congruent with the core concepts of U.S. disability policy? and (3) to what extent do these goals, adopted by a democratic government that is significantly different in culture from the United States, reflect U.S. policy as set out in the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)? The authors also ask: To what extent might Taiwan policy be improved as a consequence of a comparison of it with U.S. and United Nations policy? In reflection, the authors conclude that in general, Taiwan's national special education policy coheres with IDEA, the core concepts, and UNCRPD. The differences between Taiwan's policy and those of IDEA and the core concepts occur mainly because of Taiwan's traditional values and beliefs toward disability. The authors propose more sophisticated elaborations of Taiwan's policies related to family participation, rights of privacy, and appropriate evaluation procedures.
Age, Quality, and Context of First Sex: Associations With Sexual Difficulties
Authors: Rapsey Charlene M.
Published: September 2014

Introduction

Research consistently indicates an association between a younger age at first sex and poorer sexual health outcomes. However, research addressing associations between age at first sex and sexual difficulties has produced mixed findings. Moreover, little is known about links between the context and quality of first sex and subsequent sexual difficulties.

Aims

The aims of this study are to examine whether (i) age and (ii) context and quality at first sex are associated with sexual difficulties; (iii) examine whether age at first sex and context and quality variables are independently associated (after mutual adjustment) with sexual difficulties; and (iv) examine whether age at first sex has an indirect effect on sexual difficulties through an effect on context or quality.

Methods

Data from 388 questionnaires were gathered from students aged 17–21 living in accommodation halls and by postal invitation to adults aged 25–35.

Main Outcome Measures

The main outcome measure was the Golombok–Rust Inventory of Sexual Satisfaction (GRISS), which assesses sexual difficulties via an overall score and seven subscales.

Results

Appraising first sex as emotionally negative was associated with the majority of sexual difficulties. A less stable relationship at first sex was associated with sexual communication problems and dissatisfaction. Greater enjoyment and using substances were associated with a lower likelihood of anorgasmia for women. Age at first sex was directly associated with reduced sexual frequency only. A younger age at first sex was associated with a greater likelihood of negative appraisal and lower likelihood of a stable relationship and thereby indirectly associated with several sexual difficulties.

Conclusions

Experiencing first sex as emotionally negative was consistently associated with later sexual difficulties. When attending to sexual difficulties, understanding the quality and context of first sex may be more useful than knowing the age at first sex. This research is limited by the retrospective nature of the reports of first sex.
Stocking wild adult Florida largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides floridanus): An additional fish management tool
Authors: Canfield Daniel E. , Pecora Darren J. , Larson Kurt W. , Stephens Jesse , Hoyer Mark V.
Published: September 2014

Stocking of largemouth bass is an important management tool for fish management. The stocking of hatchery‐produced fingerling or advanced‐fingerling bass to supplement bass year‐classes, however, has exhibited varying success. Utilizing a different approach, a multiyear stocking programme using wild adult largemouth bass was initiated at the Harris Chain of Lakes (3800 ha Lake Griffin; 1811 ha Lake Dora) in central Florida. Wild adult bass (24 781 fish), ranging in size from 200 mm total length (TL) to over 600 mm TL, were stocked in Lake Griffin (13 932 fish) and Lake Dora (10 849 fish). One month after stocking, the number of stocked bass caught in electrofishing catches in Lake Griffin and Lake Dora was ~10% and 22%, respectively. Estimates of mortality were similar to the native largemouth bass, although the movement of stocked fish into other connecting water bodies was extensive. For the Lake Griffin/Lake Dora stocking programme, bass were transferred at a cost of $10.09–19.89 per fish, depending on how the costs of the project are calculated ($250 000 for just the capture and transport of the fish vs. $492 775 for the total project). Considering only capture and transport costs, conservative benefit/cost ratio estimates would be $1.77/$1.00 spent for replacement and $1.85/$1.00 spent recreational costs, although the benefit/cost ratios could exceed $10/$1. Based on the present study, stocking wild adult largemouth bass is a cost‐effective tool for managing largemouth bass.
Seasonal variations of phytoplankton species in Lake Victoria and the influence of iron and zinc ions on the dominant species identified during 2006–2007 studies
Authors: Bbosa Naziriwo Betty , Oyoo Wandiga Shem
Published: September 2014

The current study was conducted for 2 years (2006 and 2007) during January, April and September to investigate seasonal variations in biological parameters and planktonic biodiversity observed at four sampling sites (MRM, M500, SRM and S500) in Lake Victoria. Blue‐green algae (Cyanophyta) dominated the lakeshore waters of Lake Victoria, comprising 54.1% of the total algal content, compared to 24.4% for diatoms and 14.7% for green algae (Chlorophyta). Euglenophytes and dinoflagellates both constitute <10% of the algal biomass. The algal distribution at the Sango Bay sampling sites, however, is different in that it is dominated by diatoms, in contrast to Murchison Bay, which was dominated by blue‐green algae. This study also investigated the influence of iron (Fe2+and Fe3+) and zinc (Zn2+) ions on four strains of microcystis (CYN 464, CYN 465, CYN 478 and CYN 522) isolated from Murchison Bay in Lake Victoria. The suggestion that iron species and zinc ions might limit phytoplankton growth in Lake Victoria was tested by enriching algal culture media with different metal concentrations. Based on measurements of the algal biomass of four species of Lake Victoria, the algal biomass of the four microcystis strains generally decreased with increased zinc and Fe2+ concentrations. The algal biomass of the four strains, however, increased with increased Fe3+ concentrations. This response to different metal concentrations provides evidence that high Zn2+ and Fe2+ ion concentrations limit phytoplankton growth and species distribution. The availability of Fe3+ ions is an important selective force on Lake Victoria phytoplankton communities.
Real‐Time Frequency‐Domain Decomposition for Structural Health Monitoring Using General‐Purpose Graphic Processing Unit
Authors: Torbol Marco
Published: September 2014

Frequency‐domain decomposition (FDD) is used in civil engineering to identify the modal properties of structures by analyzing the data output of structural health monitoring (SHM) systems. However, because FDD is computationally expensive, it prevents CPUs from achieving real‐time performance. A CPU takes seconds to perform FDD of 16 input signals but minutes to perform FDD of hundreds of input signals; and the deployed SHM systems are becoming larger and larger. Instead, a supercomputer can achieve real‐time performance but it cannot be installed near a civil structure because it is bulky, expensive, and requires constant maintenance. In this study, FDD is performed using general‐purpose graphic processor unit (GPGPU). A GPU is capable of massive parallel computing. The developed parallel FDD algorithm is up to hundreds of times faster than its serial version on CPU. For SHM of civil structures, where natural frequencies are less than 20 Hz parallel FDD on a single GPU achieves real‐time performance. The use of GPGPU offers many advantages. The modal properties are tracked in real time. A GPU can be installed inside the base station at a structure site. A GPU is energy efficient and does not require the maintenance of a supercomputer.
Using dive behavior and active acoustics to assess prey use and partitioning by fin and humpback whales near Kodiak Island, Alaska
Authors: Witteveen Briana H. , De Robertis Alex , Guo Lei , Wynne Kate M.
Published: September 2014

Near the Kodiak Archipelago, fin (Balaenoptera physalus) and humpback (Megaptera novaeangliae) whales frequently overlap spatially and temporally. The Gulf Apex Predator‐prey study (GAP) investigated the prey use and potential prey partitioning between these sympatric species by combining concurrent analysis of vertical whale distribution with acoustic assessment of pelagic prey. Acoustic backscatter was classified as consistent with either fish or zooplankton. Whale dive depths were determined through suction cup tags. Tagged humpback whales (n = 10) were most often associated with distribution of fish, except when zooplankton density was very high. Associations between the dive depths of tagged fin whales (n = 4) and the vertical distribution of either prey type were less conclusive. However, prey assessment methods did not adequately describe the distribution of copepods, a potentially significant resource for fin whales. Mean dive parameters showed no significant difference between species when compared across all surveys. However, fin whales spent a greater proportion of dive time in the foraging phase than humpbacks, suggesting a possible difference in foraging efficiency between the two. These results suggest that humpback and fin whales may target different prey, with the greatest potential for diet overlap occurring when the density of zooplankton is very high.
One year ahead! Investigating the time lag between patent publication and market launch: insights from a longitudinal study in the automotive industry
Authors: Gerken Jan M. , Moehrle Martin G. , Walter Lothar
Published: September 2014

Technology‐oriented companies find themselves confronted with the challenge of having to react quickly to technology‐based innovations by competitors. Especially the market launches of innovative products have the ability to change the competitive environment dramatically. This calls for the ability to discern product technologies in due time. Even though several methods of technology monitoring are based on patent information, the important time lag between patent disclosure and market launch is still unclear and volatile for reasons unknown. Therefore, we have analyzed this time lag of a respective product by way of a longitudinal case study in the field of automotive engineering. The results show that in our case, patents form a valuable information source in short‐term product technology monitoring. Hence, analyzing patents in the context of product technologies and reacting to emerging products is a race against time.
Moderating effects of transformational leadership between external team learning and research team performance outcomes
Authors: Peltokorpi Vesa , Hasu Mervi
Published: September 2014

A growing body of empirical research examines the effects of external team learning on team performance. While previous studies suggest that external learning activities enhance team performance, the contingencies of such activities have received less research attention. This study examines the moderating effects of transformational team leadership between external team learning and two team performance outcomes: (1) accepted and published articles in peer‐reviewed scientific journals, and (2) project occupancy rate. The study was conducted with 124 research teams. Supporting the hypotheses, the findings show that transformational leadership has a positive moderating effect between external team learning and both team performance outcomes.
Does Conversation Need Shared Language? Davidson and Gadamer on Communicative Understanding
Authors: Lynch Greg
Published: September 2014

In a rare discussion of Gadamer's work, Davidson takes issue with Gadamer's claim that successful communication requires that interlocutors share a common language. While he is right to see a difference between his own views and Gadamer's on this point, Davidson appears to have misunderstood what motivates Gadamer's position, conflating it with that of his more familiar conventionalist interlocutors. This paper articulates Gadamer's view of the role of language in communicative understanding as an alternative to both Davidson's and that of the conventionalist writers Davidson critiques. It is argued, first, that Gadamer employs a conception of what individuates a language, and thus of what it means for two speakers to “share” a language, that Davidson never considers. By emphasizing the role of “application” in the historical development of languages, Gadamer develops a view in which languages are distinguished not by their particular semantic or syntactic rules, but by subtle differences between the concepts they express. Second, it is argued that the instances of “asymmetrical” communication—communication between interlocutors who have different sets of concepts at their disposal—that motivate Gadamer's position pose a challenge to Davidson's account of interpretative charity.
Outcome of definitive fractionated radiation followed by exenteration of the nasal cavity in dogs with sinonasal neoplasia: 16 cases
Authors: Bowles K. , DeSandre‐Robinson D. , Kubicek L. , Lurie D. , Milner R. , Boston S. E.
Published: September 2014

Local control is a major challenge in treating canine nasal tumours. Surgical cytoreduction prior to radiation therapy has not been shown to offer a survival advantage. Only one study has previously evaluated the outcome when surgery is performed after radiation, which demonstrated an improved survival time compared with radiation alone. The purpose of this study was to investigate the outcome of surgery after definitive radiation on survival times in dogs with sinonasal tumours. Medical records were retrospectively reviewed for dogs with nasal tumours that received definitive radiation followed by surgery. Information obtained from medical record review included signalment, diagnosis, treatment and outcome. The median survival time was 457 days. No long‐term side effects were observed. These findings suggest that exenteration of the nasal cavity following definitive radiation for treatment of dogs with nasal tumours is well‐tolerated and provides a similar survival duration to previous reports of radiation alone.
A Multicomponent Exercise Program for Older Adults Living in Residential Care Facilities: Direct and Indirect Effects on Physical Functioning
Authors: Mulasso Anna , Roppolo Mattia , Liubicich Monica Emma , Settanni Michele , Rabaglietti Emanuela
Published: September 2014

The aim of this study was to assess the direct and indirect effects of a multicomponent exercise (MCE) program on mobility and balance in institutionalized older people. One hundred and twelve subjects (85 women; 83.0 years on average; SD = 7.5) were included in the study, and divided into a MCE-group (MCE-G) and a control group (CG) according to matching techniques. The MCE-G consisted of a 9-month program featuring range-of-motion, strength, and balance exercises performed in small groups. The CG received routine medical and nursing care. The timed up-and-go test and Tinetti Performance-Oriented Mobility Assessment balance subscale were administered at baseline and postintervention. After controlling for physical baseline value, age, sex, residential care facilities, and body mass index, the MCE-G showed positive effects both on mobility (p < .001) and balance (p = .001). The role of balance as mediator in the relationship between participation to the MCE program and mobility was demonstrated.