bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Earnings Management and Financial Reporting Fraud: Can External Auditors Spot the Difference?
Authors: Kassem Rasha
Published: June 2018

The aim of this paper is to increase external auditors’ knowledge about earnings management and help them spot the difference between earnings management and financial reporting fraud. A thorough literature review was undertaken to achieve the paper’s aim. The secondary data used in this paper was obtained from different databases like Ebscohost, Business Search Premier, Academic Search Premier, Emerlad, Sciencedirect, and Jstor. The current paper suggests a new approach and way of thinking for external auditors that might help them in spotting the difference between earnings management and fraud. This new approach calls for the importance of considering management’s motives which is the main driver for all fraudulent activities. A set of recommendations for external auditors, researchers, and standards’ setters are provided in this paper. External auditors have to view external auditing in terms of the audit of motivations. Standards’ setters should provide external auditors with more guidelines regarding the audit of management’s motives. More research is still needed in management’s motives and integrity.
Investigating the Role of Selected Marketing-Mix Variables in Formatting Corporate Image in Egyptian Market
Authors: Ebeid Ahmed Yehia
Published: June 2018

The current study aims at investigating the relationship between selected marketing-mix variables (i.e., price, advertising, monetary promotion, distribution intensity) and corporate image, in the consumer markets, unlike research that concerned business market, or/and different group of marketing-mix variables, in terms of addressing their expected relationships with corporate image. The questionnaire response rate is approximately 83%. Structural equation modeling was used to investigate the proposed relationships, and the model`s fit as well. Significance of all relationships were verified, and the  proposed model fits the data. Implications, limitations,  and further research are provided.
Influence of Microfinance Bank Products Accessibility on Small Scale Enterprises Performance
Authors: Odetayo T.A , Onaolapo A.R
Published: June 2018

This study examined the influence of   the Microfinance bank products accessibility on Small scale enterprises (SSEs) in Osun State, Nigeria.  Descriptive survey research design was adopted for this study. The population for the study comprised all microfinance banks and small scale enterprises in Osun State. Thirty (30) MFBs were purposively sampled and For Hundred and Fifty (450) SSEs were randomly sampled. Two sets of questionnaires designed to collect data were tested for reliability using Cronbach’s alpha: QMFB (r = 0.89) and QSSEs(r = 0.70). Data were analysed using tables, frequencies as well as simple percentages while multiple regressions were used to test hypotheses one and two at 0.05 level of significance.   Degree of accessibility to MFB products was measured using savings account (92%), current account (54.2%) and business loan (52.3%). A regression analysis designed to examine the influence of MFB products accessibility on SSEs’ performance revealed that MFB products accessibility perception jointly predicted changes in SSEs total capital given F(8,318) = 17.936;  number of employees F(8,318)  = 4.136;  sales F (8,318) =15.316;  and profit F(8,318) = 15,699;  all values being significant at 0.05 level. In conclusion, activities of MFBs impacted on the SSEs in the study area given the predicted values of financial product accessibility on sales and profit but with a limited effect on total capital and number of employees engaged.
Harmonizing Modern Day Employee Engagement with the Sociological Theory of Symbolic Interactionism
Authors: Simon Georgia Rosemarie , Zhou Iris
Published: June 2018

Employee Engagement (EE) spans over 30 years discourse within the practitioner and scientific domain, and have become a strategic imperative within organizations. However, due to the tumultuous history of inconsistencies in conceptualization, poor validation, and various discrepancies among scholars and practitioners, the construct has attracted interest across disciplines and industry. Accordingly, the claims of its positive impact on bottom line and other organizational outcome have become the catalyst for further research. Owing to that, this paper highlights past and present findings on EE. Drawing on previous studies, we highlight the cons of the construct and propose a multi-foci approach that extends the positive psychology perspective. We reference the earlier works of Kahn, and the influence sociology played in the conceptualization of Kahn’s theory of the employee’s preferred self. We conclude and recommend the Interactionist view as a theoretical framework within the field of industrial sociology to support our arguments.Keywords: Employee engagement, positive psychology, sociology, rational choice theory, social interactionism.
Potential of Brand Personality: Attachment Styles as Moderator
Authors: Tuan LO Ying , Tat Huam Hon , Shamsuddin Ahmad Sharifuddin , Rasli Amran Md , Jusoh Ahmad
Published: June 2018

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the effect of consumer’s attachment styles as a moderator in the impact of brand personality on its brand attachment. This research investigated the preferred brand personality of anxious and avoidant attachment consumer, their likelihood to be attached to that brand and how they respond to any changes in brand personality. A total of 300 students were surveyed. Their attachment style and their response towards sincere and exciting personality and its brand attachment were assessed. Empirical study shows that anxious attachment style consumer preferred sincere brand personality, tends to be attached with it and did not respond to any changes in brand personality.  Avoidant attachment style people on the other hand have a stronger relationship with the exciting brand personality, are not likely to be attached to it and will respond to changes in brand personality. This study implies that marketers should get to know their targeted market’s attachment style prior coming out with the suitable brand personality.
A Framework for the Strategic Management of Information Technology
Authors: Al Wazzan Dhiya Abdullah
Published: June 2018

The complementary between IT as a competitive factor and strategic management is very important for gaining competitive advantages. This paper explores factors related to strategy and IT that should be considered for the strategic analysis of IT as a competitive factor, and proposes a framework for Strategic Technology Management (STM). The research is conducted by means of quantitative and qualitative analysis of data. The framework is expanded and validated through inference to findings of large and small to medium-sized enterprises through interviews, finally ending on theory matching.  The results of the analysis show that the strategic management of information technology is a continuous process of evaluation and change and that the alignment between factors such as competitive environment, competitive strategies (business and IT strategies), competitive outcome, and competitive factors gain competitive advantages for industrial companies.
Institutional Quality and Financial Sector Development: Empirical Evidence from Nigeria
Authors: Fagbemi Fisayo , Ajibike John Oluwasegun
Published: June 2018

In view of the indispensable role of financial sector in both emerging and developing economies, there has been a notable spotlight on the financial sector development over the years in most African countries. Nonetheless, there are only a few studies on this topical issue, particularly for Nigeria. Hence, this study examines the long – run and short – run dynamic relationship between institutional quality and financial development in Nigeria over the period of 1984 – 2015 using Auto-Regressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) bounds test approach to cointegration. Using two different indicators (Private credit and M2) of financial development, the results consistently show that institutional factors do not have significant effect on financial development in the long – run as well as in the short – run. Furthermore, the empirical evidence indicates that regulatory quality and governance system (institutions) do not necessarily contribute to financial development in a feeble institutional environment, specifically in Nigeria. Thus, our findings suggest that whilst weak institutions could increase the risk of limiting the functioning of financial system, good governance and strong institutions are the essential ingredient of financial development in Nigeria. As a consequence, policies aimed at strengthening the quality of institutions and governance should form the major policy thrust of government (policy makers). These could help improving financial sector development in Nigeria.
Emotional Intelligence and Organizational Commitment between the Hotel Staff in Tehran, Iran
Authors: Mohamadkhani K , Nasiri Lalardi M
Published: June 2018

The aim of this paper is to find out the relationship between emotional intelligence and organizational commitment of the hotel staff in 5-Star hotels of Tehran, Iran. The research enjoys an applied, descriptive, survey-based, and correlational framework. The population of the study was comprised of 423 employees (N =423) of public 5- star hotels in Tehran including Esteghlal, Laleh, and Homa. The sample was randomly selected based on Kerjesi- Morgan table and included 142 (n=142) individuals. The data gathering instruments were two standard questionnaires measuring emotional intelligence and organizational commitment. To analyze the data, Pierson correlation, ANOVA, and Qi-square were employed and results revealed that there was a significant relationship between the two main variables of the study, namely; emotional intelligence and organizational commitment and some of the components of these variables. This signifies the necessity of attracting and employing highly emotionally intelligent individuals, training them in different levels and leading them towards the application of the skills required. Paving the ground for the development and continuation of emotional intelligence within managers and the staff of the hotels and residential centers are also inevitable factors to be followed.
The Influence of Capital Structure on Organizational Performance at Taiwan-Listed Info-Electronics Companies: Using Corporate Governance as the Moderator
Authors: Chao Chai-Hui
Published: June 2018

The purpose of this study is to verify the influence of capital structure on organizational performance at Taiwan-listed info-electronics companies, with corporate governance being the Moderator. Financial section chiefs or employees of higher levels at Taiwan-listed info-electronics companies were interviewed, while convenience sampling was used to yield knowledge from the population, the linear Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) was adopted to verify the goodness-of-fit effects among the overall model, structural model and measurement model. Findings from this study show that, at Taiwan-listed info-electronics companies, the capital structure and corporate governance both have significant interactive influence on the organizational performance. This implies Taiwan-listed-electronics companies should emphasize corporate governance just as also enhancement in capital structure.
The Economics of Distortions and the Problem of Measurability: Evidence from Nigeria
Authors: Effiom Lionel , Samuel Ubi Peter , Okon Emmanuel O
Published: June 2018

The Nigerian economy has been characterized by various forms of distortions, mostly structural, arising from dysfunctional institutions and incentive systems. Distortions and imperfections generally mean any deviation from the assumptions of perfect competition. The degree to which a market or industry can be described as competitive depends in part on the ease with which new businesses can enter and exit a particular market in the long run. This paper therefore is burdened with the objective of examining the extent of this digression. Through a descriptive methodology, it provides a theoretical basis through which these distortions can be measured, and its findings establishes evidences of distortions in the Nigerian economy across various sectors including the power/energy, financial and the banking sectors. Specific and wider implications on the Nigerian as well as the world economy have been highlighted, namely the exportation of these distortionary tendencies to the rest of Africa and the world via the oil nexus.
Enhancing Community Participation for Rural Development in Central Ejagham of Cameroon: Challenges and Prospects
Authors: Kimengsi Jude Ndzifon , Azibo Balgah Roland , Gwan Akhere Solange
Published: June 2018

Community participation in rural development is no longer a new terminology in the development lexicon of developing countries. In most developing nations, there exist a great disparity between the rural and the urban centres in terms of socio-economic development. Central Ejagham, an enclaved community in Manyu Division of southwestern Cameroon has, over the years, been faced with a number of development challenges. In response to this, and inline with the government of Cameroon’s policy of supporting self-reliant development, the community engaged in a series of self-defined community development activities in a multiplicity of sectors, on the bases of locally identified abilities and resources. This paper adopts qualitative methods such as interviews, focus group discussions, detailed field observations which were complemented by secondary data sources and content analysis to examine the barriers and indigenous efforts towards enhancing community participation in Central Ejagham. We observe that the level of participation in a majority of the projects falls either within the “tokenism” or the “citizen control” rungs of Sherry Arnstein’s Ladder of Citizen Participation. In addition, although “tokenism” rung projects in Central Ejagham receive much financial and technical support, although they are saddled with commitment-related challenges. Conversely, projects at the “citizen control” rung are characterized by significant commitment but are hampered by limited (financial and technical)resources. To further enhance community participation, we recommend that projects at the “tokenism” rung which are generally viable in terms of financial and technical capacity be stepped up to the “citizen control” level, inorder to guarantee maximum participation for better results. In addition, we suggest that the legislative arm of the government should introduce a bill on the need to effectively support community developmental efforts. This. We believe, will make “citizen control” rung projects to become more effective. Finally, a platform to guarantee the sustainability of projects and to ensure the adequate dissemination of information on sourcing for external funding to support projects should be introduced.
Exploring the Contributions and Challenges of Amhara Development Association to Community Development
Authors: Belay Degwale
Published: June 2018

This study considers the challenges and contribution of Amhara Development Association (ADA) to the development of Enemay community, Ethiopia. Drawing up on the findings of a qualitative research study, this article argue that despite local civil society organizations contribute to community development,  the development could not be effective and less recognized by the targeted community unless participatory. ADA has made some contributions for the community in its intervention areas of education and health though the community did not recognize the contributions. This is due to the challenges that faced ADA which include lack of adequate and permanent employees, lack of community awareness, ADA affiliation to political organization of a nation, lack of finance, top down approach of service delivery, and lack of trust and accountability. Due to these challenges, ADA was less successful to bring community development.
Community Development and Older Men’s Programming: An International Case Study
Authors: Roger Kerstin , Nurmi Mary Anne , Wilson Nathan J , Mackenzie Corey S , Oliffe John L
Published: June 2018

A growing body of research points to men’s groups as a benefit to communities because of their volunteerism and community-based programming. Spaces for older and retired men’s continued participation are provided including meaningful initiatives through these community resources. Little research, however, has explored groups for older men from a community development perspective. The purpose of this article is to describe a case study using Photovoice methodology with two men’s groups from Canada and two from Australia. We discuss men’s group participants’ perceptions of their groups’ contributions to the well-being of its members and the broader community, from a community development approach using photos as a key part of the study. Findings revealed older men’s volunteerism towards events and maintenance of community parks and museums, as well as mentorship activities, contributed to the well-being of a range of community members, while fostering a sense of accomplishment, friendship, and other benefits.
Music Festivals Serving as a Catalyst for Collaborative HIV Prevention Education and Expanded HIV Testing in Rural Uganda
Authors: Van Leeuwen James , Nabimanya Humphrey , Ward Andrew , Grundy Ryan , Thrun Mark
Published: June 2018

From 2014 through 2016, we produced a music festival in rural Kabale, Uganda in order to facilitate HIV testing and reproductive health services offered by NGOs specializing in HIV and sexual health. Our aim was to assess the effectiveness of a music festival to engage persons in sexual health and HIV screening services. Clinical service data was compiled and analyzed. Between 2014 and 2016, over 38,000 persons attended the annual festivals and were exposed to HIV prevention messaging. Over 7,000 persons have been tested for HIV. In 2016, 4,588 HIV tests were performed. In addition, 36 long-acting means of contraception were placed, 33 women were screened for cervical cancer, 2 tubal ligations were performed, and 193 men were referred for circumcision. Music festivals created a novel opportunity to provide sexual health services including prevention education, reproductive healthcare, and HIV testing to persons at risk for HIV in rural Uganda.
The Potential Impact of Family Life Education and Lay Counselor Training on Poverty in Developing Countries: The Example of India
Authors: Carson David K , Chowdhury Aparajita
Published: June 2018

Approximately one third of the world's 1.2 billion poorest people on earth live in India.  It is home to more people living in poverty than any other country in the world.  Although overall poverty rates in India have decreased in the past several decades because of India's emphasis on poverty reduction and community development since independence, the number of people at or below the poverty line remains in the hundreds of millions.  Poverty in India, as in many developing countries, is not just the absence of income but the presence of an ongoing state of helplessness, hopelessness, powerlessness, inequality, and marginalization of the poor.  This article examines how Lay Counselor Training and Family Life Education can have a potentially powerful and long-lasting impact on the socio-economic development of individuals, families, and communities in India.  The authors highlight how professionally trained Indian counselors and family life educators, in cooperation with NGO's and professionals from other areas of the world, can help reduce poverty and enhance healthy human development through the training of lay persons in both rural and urban areas, and how these efforts can, in turn, potentially augment the economic conditions of families and communities.  These effects become mutually reinforcing since the economic development of families and communities is also likely to enhance the mental and emotional health of family members and the overall resilience of the family.  Hence, a multimodal approach to poverty reduction is needed.  In this article India serves as an example for other developing countries.
New records of Biemna Gray, 1867 (Biemnidae: Biemnida: Demospongiae)
and a replacement name for the species Biemna microstyla Thomas, 1984
Authors: CAVALCANTI THAYNÃ , NETO CARLOS SANTOS , PINHEIRO ULISSES
Published: June 2018

Biemna Gray, 1867 is characterized by stylote or exceptionally oxeote megascleres arranged in a plumoreticulate skeleton, ectosomal skeleton consists of the brushed endings of choanosomal tracts, microscleres are sigmas, microxeas, commata and raphides (Hajdu & Van Soest 2002). Currently, Biemna has 55 valid species (Van Soest et al. 2018). In Brazil, three species are known from northern region (Muricy 2018): Biemna microacanthosigma Mothes, Hajdu, Lerner & Van Soest, 2004, Biemna spinomicroxea Mothes, Campos, Lerner, Carraro & Van Soest, 2005, Biemna trisigmata Mothes & Campos, 2004. In this present study, a new name is proposed for a preoccupied combination, Biemna thomasi nom. nov. The species Biemna caribea Pulitzer-Finali, 1986 is recorded and described for the first time in Brazilian waters. Six specimens of Biemna were studied in Pernambuco and Bahia States. All specimens were preserved in 80% ethanol and deposited on the Porifera Collections at the Universidade Federal de Pernambuco (UFPEPOR).
New species of Traumatomutilla André in the T. tabapua and T. integella species-groups (Hymenoptera, Mutillidae)
Authors: BARTHOLOMAY PEDRO R. , WILLIAMS KEVIN A. , LUZ DAVID R. , OLIVEIRA MARCIO L.
Published: June 2018

Five new species of Traumatomutilla André from Brazil are described: T. fratres Bartholomay & Williams sp. nov., T. anhanga Bartholomay & Williams sp. nov., T. barathra Bartholomay & Williams sp. nov., T. poranga Bartholomay & Williams sp. nov. and T. pantherina Bartholomay & Williams sp. nov. Traumatomutilla tabapua Casal, 1969, T. luscoides André, 1908 and T. integella (Cresson, 1902) are redescribed. T. verecunda (Cresson, 1902) is proposed as junior synonym of T. integella based on morphological evidence. T. luscoides is transferred from the T. integella to the T. tabapua species-group.
Otopathologic Changes in the Cochlea following Head Injury without Temporal Bone Fracture
Authors: Ishai Reuven , Knoll Renata M. , Chen Jenny X. , Wong Kevin , Reinshagen Katherine L. , Nadol Joseph B. , Remenschneider Aaron K. , Jung David H. , Kozin Elliott D.
Published: June 2018

Objective

Hearing loss following temporal bone (TB) fracture may result from direct transection of the middle and inner ear. The pathophysiology of hearing loss due to head injury without TB fracture, however, is not well understood. Few reports describe otopathologic findings. Herein, we investigate the pathologic findings of patients who sustained a head injury without evidence of a TB fracture.

Study Design

Otopathology study.

Setting

Otopathology laboratory.

Subjects

Subjects with a history of head injury without TB fracture.

Methods

The TBs of patients with head injury were evaluated by light microscopy. Inner ear anatomy was evaluated, including counts of spiral ganglion cells (SGCs), hair cells, pillar cells, atrophy of the stria vascularis, and the presence of endolymphatic hydrops. SGC counts were compared with those of historical age‐matched controls.

Results

All cases (N = 6 TBs) had evidence of inner ear pathology. Of the 6 cases, 2 (33%) had severe loss of hair cells in all 3 turns of the cochlea, and 4 (67%) cases demonstrated moderate to severe loss at the basal turn of the cochlea. Four cases had scattered atrophy of the stria vascularis, and 3 (50%) had cochlear hydrops. The number of total SGCs was decreased, with an average 53% loss (range, 25%‐79%) as compared with controls. The SGC count loss was evenly distributed along Rosenthal's canal.

Conclusions

Patients with a history of head injury without TB fracture demonstrate inner ear pathology. Further studies are necessary to determine if otopathology findings are directly attributable to trauma.
An extension of a strong viscous–inviscid coupling method for modeling the effects of vortex generators
Authors: Daniele Elia , Schramm Matthias , Rautmann Christof , Doosttalab Mehdi , Stoevesandt Bernhard
Published: June 2018

The aim of this work is to provide insights into the advantages and the limitations of the extension of a strong viscous–inviscid interactive code for modeling the effects of vortex generators, with focus on the calibration and validation for wind turbine airfoils. The proposed methodology relies on the approach proposed by other authors in the past and introduces an alternative formulation for the lag dissipation within the integral boundary-layer equations whose effects on the numerical prediction are evaluated. Besides the verification of the aeronautical test cases, particular attention is devoted to the validation of the results for several airfoils commonly used in wind turbine design. A blind test for airfoils from an industrial test case is conducted as well. Results show that the maximum lift coefficient can be well predicted by the present implementation, whereas the angle of maximum lift is a little higher than in wind tunnel measurements. Apart from that, the drag coefficients of airfoils with vortex generators cannot be predicted by the current implementation, but it is expected that the maximum lift and the stall angle of attack are more important in the design phase, since they determine power, loads, and noise.
Altered cortical excitability in persistent idiopathic facial pain
Authors: Galhardoni Ricardo , Ciampi de Andrade Daniel , Puerta Mariana YT , Brunoni Andre R , Varotto Bruna LR , de Siqueira José TT , Teixeira Manoel J , Siqueira Silvia RDT
Published: June 2018

Introduction

Persistent idiopathic facial pain is a refractory and disabling condition of unknown mechanism and etiology. It has been suggested that persistent idiopathic facial pain patients have not only peripheral generators of pain, but also central nervous system changes that would contribute to the persistence of symptoms. We hypothesized that persistent idiopathic facial pain would have changes in brain cortical excitability as measured by transcranial magnetic stimulation compared to healthy controls.

Methods

Twenty-nine persistent idiopathic facial pain patients were compared to age- and sex-matched healthy controls and underwent cortical excitability measurements by transcranial magnetic stimulation applied to the cortical representation of the masseter muscle of both hemispheres. Single-pulse stimulation was used to measure the resting motor threshold and suprathreshold motor-evoked potentials. Paired-pulse stimulation was used to assess short intracortical inhibition and intracortical facilitation. Clinical pain and associated symptoms were assessed with validated tools.

Results

Spontaneous pain was found in 27 (93.1%) and provoked pain was found in two (6.9%) persistent idiopathic facial pain patients. The motor-evoked potentials at 120% and 140% were significantly lower for both hemispheres compared to controls. Persistent idiopathic facial pain patients had lower short-interval intracortical inhibition compared with controls. These changes were correlated with some aspects of quality of life, and higher mood symptoms. These neurophysiological alterations were not influenced by analgesic medication, as similar changes were observed in patients with or without central-acting drugs.

Conclusions

Persistent idiopathic facial pain is associated with changes in intracortical modulation involving GABAergic mechanisms, which may be related to certain aspects of the pathophysiology of this chronic pain condition. Trial registration: NTC01746355.
Using total specific cost indices to compare the cost performance of additive manufacturing for the medical devices domain
Authors: Baumers Martin , Wildman Ricky , Wallace Martin , Yoo Jae , Blackwell Brett , Farr Phil , Roberts Clive J
Published: June 2018

The label additive manufacturing, also known as three-dimensional printing, serves as an umbrella term for a number of technologies designed to deposit product geometries directly from build materials and digital design information. However, as a relatively recent addition to the spectrum of manufacturing processes, the relationship between process type, system characteristics and cost performance is still broadly unclear for several technology types. To address this gap, the current research develops comprehensive and robust additive manufacturing cost models for two less-studied polymeric additive manufacturing technology variants, material jetting and mask projection stereolithography. Despite sharing the fundamental principle of photopolymerization, the operating processes of both systems are markedly different. This is reflected in the constructed cost models, which incorporate process maps to capture ancillary process elements, ensure efficient capacity utilisation through optimised build volume packing and approximate the expected cost impact of build failure. On this basis, this article estimates a set of specific cost indices reflecting the overall total cost performance of the investigated systems in an example application from the medical devices domain. Specific cost results range from £2.01 to £1.19/cm3 deposited on the Objet Connex 260 system and from £1.59 to £1.00/cm3 of material deposited on the Perfactory system. These results are discussed in the context of similar cost indices extracted from the empirical engineering literature. This article shows that next to increases in build speed, improvements in overall process automation and process stability are needed to enhance the commercial proposition of the investigated technology variants.
For the birds: Media sourcing, Twitter, and the minimal effect on audience perceptions
Authors: Oeldorf-Hirsch Anne , Schmierbach Mike , Appelman Alyssa , Boyle Michael P
Published: June 2018

Twitter has emerged as a key news source, but questions remain about the ethics of relying on it as a source and the implications of such reliance for audience impressions. Two experiments test perceptions of news attributed to Twitter. Study 1 ( N = 699) tests the effects of quoting from Twitter and showing actual tweets. The results suggest minimal influences on credibility or quality perceptions. Study 2 ( N = 311) tests the equivalence of quotes attributed to various sources and investigates the effects of attributing the origin of a news story to Twitter. Results suggest that visual representations of tweets may have a negative effect, but otherwise perceptual effects remain minimal.
Identification of facial expressions of emotion by 4-year-old children from different linguistic environments
Authors: Champoux-Larsson Marie-France , Dylman Alexandra S. , Örnkloo Helena , Esteves Francisco
Published: June 2018

The current study investigated the identification of facial expressions of emotion, a socio-emotional task that has not previously been examined in children from different linguistic environments. Eighty-four 4-year-olds growing up in one of three linguistic environments (monolingual, dominant bilingual, balanced bilingual) performed a task where they identified facial expressions (happiness, anger, sadness, fear). Accuracy was analysed with a mixed-design analysis of variance using group (monolinguals, dominant bilinguals and balanced bilinguals) and emotion (happy, angry, sad and scared) as between- and within-group variables, respectively. Our results showed a main effect of emotion, but there was no main effect of group. This suggests that 4-year-olds’ linguistic environment does not affect performance on an identification of facial expressions task. This study was the first to investigate the identification of facial expressions of emotion in children coming from different linguistic environments. As the socio-emotional development of bilinguals is not yet well understood, especially regarding the visual perception of emotions, this study is amongst the first to contribute to this area of research. Our results are therefore of significance as a building block for additional studies that should explore the visual perception of emotions in other types of tasks and populations.
Multiscale modeling frameworks for architecture: Designing the unseen and invisible with phase change materials
Authors: Faircloth Billie , Welch Ryan , Tamke Martin , Nicholas Paul , Ayres Phil , Sinke Yulia , Cuffy Brandon , Ramsgaard Thomsen Mette
Published: June 2018

Multiscale design and analysis models promise a robust, multimethod, multidisciplinary approach, but at present have limited application during the architectural design process. To explore the use of multiscale models in architecture, we develop a calibrated modeling and simulation platform for the design and analysis of a prototypical envelope made of phase change materials. The model is mechanistic in nature, incorporates material-scale and precinct scale-attributes, and supports the design of two- and three-dimensional phase change material geometries informed by heat transfer phenomena. Phase change material behavior, in solid and liquid states, dominates the visual and numerical evaluation of the multiscale model. Model calibration is demonstrated using real-time data gathered from the prototype. Model extensibility is demonstrated when it is used by designers to predict the behavior of alternate envelope options. Given the challenges of modeling phase change material behavior in this multiscale model, an additional multiple linear regression model is applied to data collected from the physical prototype in order to demonstrate an alternate method for predicting the melting and solidification of phase change materials.
Meta-Analysis of the Effects of Exercise Training on Markers of Metabolic Syndrome in Solid Organ Transplant Recipients
Authors: Li Caixia , Xu Jianming , Qin Wei , Hu Yan , Lu Huijuan
Published: June 2018

Background:

The markers of metabolic syndrome can prompt the development of metabolic syndrome and are associated with worse graft function among transplant recipients. Studies have shown that exercise might be effective in reducing incidence rate of metabolic syndrome components in nontransplant patients. However, there is no sufficient evidence to determine whether exercise training is safe or effective for markers of metabolic syndrome among solid organ transplant recipients.

Objective:

To evaluate the safety and efficacy of exercise training programs for risk markers of metabolic syndrome and to further evaluate its long-term effects in solid organ transplant recipients.

Methods:

We systematically reviewed all randomized trials comparing the outcomes of exercise training in organ transplant recipients. The Cochrane Library, Joanna Briggs Institute EBP Database, PubMed, Embase, Web of Science Core Collection, ProQuest Health & Medical Complete, and SinoMed databases were searched to June 2017. The meta-analysis was conducted using RevMan 5.3.

Results:

In total, 13 eligible trails involving 464 patients were included. Recipients who engaged in an exercise program after transplantation showed significant reductions in fasting blood glucose, diastolic blood pressure, triglycerides, and body mass index and a significant increase in high-density lipoprotein. But found no significant changes in new-onset diabetes, systolic blood pressure, total cholesterol, or low-density lipoprotein.

Conclusion:

Exercise training may be a promising intervention for markers of metabolic syndrome in transplant recipients. Further research is required to determine essential aspects of exercise according to organ transplantation type for effects on markers of metabolic syndrome.
Parallel Behind Your Head
Authors: Kappers Astrid M. L. , Çetinkaya Aytun Ö. R. , Tan Giulio S.
Published: June 2018

A miniature hair clip set-up presented to the first author gave inspiration for this study. After a number of studies investigating what is haptically perceived as parallel on horizontal, frontoparallel or midsagittal planes, the present study focusses on what is felt as parallel behind your head. The results show convincingly that also in this condition physically parallel is not the same as haptically parallel. Moreover, the deviations are large, idiosyncratic and in a direction predicted by assuming a biasing influence of an egocentric reference frame.
A Prospective Observational Study of Anesthesia-Related Adverse Events and Postoperative Complications Occurring During a Surgical Mission in Madagascar
Authors: White Michelle C. , Barki Brian J. , Lerma Stephen A. , Couch Sarah Kate , Alcorn Dennis , Gillerman Richard G.
Published: June 2018

BACKGROUND:

Two-thirds of the world’s population lack access to safe anesthesia and surgical care. Nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) play an important role in bridging the gap, but surgical outcomes vary. After complex surgeries, up to 20-fold higher postoperative complication rates are reported and the reasons for poor outcomes are undefined. Little is known concerning the incidence of anesthesia complications. Mercy Ships uses fully trained staff, and infrastructure and equipment resources similar to that of high-income countries, allowing the influence of these factors to be disentangled from patient factors when evaluating anesthesia and surgical outcomes after NGO sponsored surgery. We aimed to estimate the incidence of anesthesia-related and postoperative complications during a 2-year surgical mission in Madagascar.

METHODS:

As part of quality assurance and participation in a new American Society of Anesthesiologists Anesthesia Quality Institute sponsored NGO Outcomes registry, Mercy Ships prospectively recorded anesthesia-related adverse events. Adverse events were grouped into 6 categories: airway, cardiac, medication, regional, neurological, and equipment. Postoperative complications were predefined as 16 adverse events and graded for patient impact using the Dindo-Clavien classification.

RESULTS:

Data were evaluated for 2037 episodes of surgical care. The overall anesthesia adverse event rate was 2.0% (confidence interval [CI], 1.4–2.6). The majority (85% CI, 74–96) of adverse events occurred intraoperatively with 15% (CI, 3–26) occurring in postanesthesia care unit. The most common intraoperative adverse event, occurring 7 times, was failed regional (spinal) anesthesia that was due to unexpectedly long surgery in 6 cases; bronchospasm and arrhythmias were the second most common, occurring 5 times each. There were 217 postoperative complications in 191 patients giving an overall complication rate of 10.7% (CI, 9.3–12.0) per surgery and 9.4% (CI, 8.1–10.7) per patient. The most common postoperative complication was unexpected return to the operating room and the second most common was surgical site infection (39.2%; CI, 37.0–41.3 and 33.2%; CI, 31.1–35.3 of all complications, respectively). The most common (42.9%; CI, 40.7–45.1) grade of complication was grade II. There was 1 death.

CONCLUSIONS:

This study adds to the scarce literature on anesthesia outcomes after mission surgery in low- and middle-income countries. We join others in calling for an international NGO anesthesia and surgical outcome registry and for all surgical NGOs to adopt international standards for the safe practice of anesthesia.
Postoperative Cognitive Dysfunction and Noncardiac Surgery
Authors: Evered Lisbeth A. , Silbert Brendan S.
Published: June 2018

Postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) is an objectively measured decline in cognition postoperatively compared with preoperative function. POCD has been considered in the anesthetic and surgical literature in isolation of cognitive decline which is common in the elderly within the community and where it is labeled as mild cognitive impairment, neurocognitive disorder, or dementia. This narrative review seeks to place POCD in the broad context of cognitive decline in the general population. Cognitive change after anesthesia and surgery was described over 100 years ago, initially as delirium and dementia. The term POCD was applied in the 1980s to refer to cognitive decline assessed purely on the basis of a change in neuropsychological test results, but the construct has been the subject of great heterogeneity. The cause of POCD remains unknown. Increasing age, baseline cognitive impairment, and fewer years of education are consistently associated with POCD.

In geriatric medicine, cognitive disorders defined and classified as mild cognitive impairment, neurocognitive disorder, and dementia have definitive clinical features. To identify the clinical impact of cognitive impairment associated with the perioperative period, POCD has recently been redefined in terms of these geriatric medicine constructs so that the short-, medium-, and long-term clinical and functional impact can be elucidated. As the aging population present in ever increasing numbers for surgery, many individuals with overt or subclinical dementia require anesthesia. Anesthesiologists must be equipped to understand and manage these patients.
Evidence Review Conducted for the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality Safety Program for Improving Surgical Care and Recovery: Focus on Anesthesiology for Total Knee Arthroplasty
Authors: Soffin Ellen M. , Gibbons Melinda M. , Ko Clifford Y. , Kates Stephen L. , Wick Elizabeth , Cannesson Maxime , Scott Michael J. , Wu Christopher L.
Published: June 2018

Enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) has rapidly gained popularity in a variety of surgical subspecialities. A large body of literature suggests that ERAS leads to superior outcomes, improved patient satisfaction, reduced length of hospital stay, and cost benefits, without affecting rates of readmission after surgery. These patterns have been described for patients undergoing elective total knee arthroplasty (TKA); however, adoption of ERAS to orthopedic surgery has lagged behind other surgical disciplines. The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, in partnership with the American College of Surgeons and the Johns Hopkins Medicine Armstrong Institute (AI) for Patient Safety and Quality, has developed the Safety Program for Improving Surgical Care and Recovery. The program comprises a national effort to incorporate best practice in perioperative care and improve patient safety, for over 750 hospitals and multiple procedures over the next 5 years, including orthopedic surgery. We have conducted a full evidence review of anesthetic interventions to derive anesthesiology-related components of an evidence-based ERAS pathway for TKA. A PubMed search was performed for each protocol component, focusing on the highest levels of evidence in the literature. Search findings are summarized in narrative format. Anesthesiology components of care were identified and evaluated across the pre-, intra-, and postoperative phases. A summary of the best available evidence, together with recommendations for inclusion in ERAS protocols for TKA, is provided. There is extensive evidence in the literature, and from society guidelines to support the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality Safety Program for Improving Surgical Care and Recovery goals for TKA.
Optimal Running Dose and Cardiovascular Risk
Authors: McMullen Christopher W. , Harrast Mark A. , Baggish Aaron L.
Published: June 2018

The cardiovascular benefits of regular exercise are well established. A mortality benefit has clearly been demonstrated for those that participate in light and moderate exercise. Less is known regarding the long-term effects of vigorous regular running over an extended period. In recent years, myocardial fibrosis, arrhythmias, and coronary artery calcium have been demonstrated in high-intensity exercisers. However, the prognostic implication of these findings remains unknown, and thus, there is insufficient evidence, and potentially not a need, to recommend a maximal running dose or limit for healthy individuals who already train intensively. For those otherwise healthy individuals who wish to run for cardiovascular health benefits, following the standard guidelines of 150 min of moderate-intensity exercise or 75 min of vigorous exercise weekly is recommended. Prevention and screening remain as key to lowering morbidity and mortality in all individuals.
Advanced Concepts in Hip Morphology, Associated Pathologies, and Specific Rehabilitation for Athletic Hip Injuries
Authors: Milani Carlo J.E. , Moley Peter J.
Published: June 2018

Hip and groin injuries comprise up to 17% of athletic injuries and can pose rehabilitation challenges for many athletes. Injuries involving abnormal femoral acetabular morphology, reduced range of motion, and decreased lumbopelvic strength and endurance also may increase the risk of injury to lower extremities and delay return to play if proper rehabilitation does not take place. The rehabilitation of athletic hip injuries requires a multifaceted interdisciplinary approach that manages the interplay of multiple factors to restore preinjury function and facilitate return to play. Emphasis should be placed on activity modification, preservation of the arcs of range of motion, functional strengthening of the lumbopelvic core, and optimization of proprioceptive and neuromechanical strategies. Communication between providers and the injured athlete also is crucial to ensure that proper therapeutic approaches are being applied.
Core and Back Rehabilitation for High-speed Rotation Sports: Highlight on Lacrosse
Authors: Vincent Heather K. , Vincent Kevin R.
Published: June 2018

Lacrosse is a fast-paced game that incorporates elements from multiple sports, such as soccer, basketball, baseball, tennis, and hockey. The sport involves rapid changes of direction, endurance, sprinting, physical contact, rotational movement, passing, and shooting. Passing and shooting are further complicated by having a weighted object (ball) at the end of a long moment arm (crosse) which places increased stress on the body segments. Thus, it is important to properly prepare for sport participation by improving strength, endurance, and dynamic stability of the postural and core stability muscles. Because high mechanical loads are experienced during play, (re)establishment of symmetric strength and flexibility is essential for rehabilitation and injury prevention. This article will focus on the musculoskeletal demands placed on the body in lacrosse, the importance of core strength and dynamic stability to prevent injury, and the elements of both prehabilitation and rehabilitation programs to properly prepare the athlete for participation.
Energy Availability, Macronutrient Intake, and Nutritional Supplementation for Improving Exercise Performance in Endurance Athletes
Authors: Casazza Gretchen A. , Tovar Ashley P. , Richardson Christine E. , Cortez Angela N. , Davis Brian A.
Published: June 2018

Endurance athletes use nutritional guidelines and supplements to improve exercise performance and recovery. However, use is not always based on scientific evidence of improved performance, which type of athlete would benefit most, or the optimal dose and timing of a particular supplement. Health professionals that give advice to athletes need to target their recommendations on the energy systems and muscle fiber types used for the athlete’s sporting event, the goal of the training block, the time of the competitive season, and the characteristics and food preferences of the individual athlete. This review aims to summarize the most current research findings on the optimal calorie, carbohydrate, and protein intake for athlete health, performance, and recovery. We also summarized new findings on fluid intake and the optimal dose and timing of beetroot and caffeine supplementation on time trial performance in endurance athletes.