bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The transition challenge in family and business: a case study of KL Bricks
Authors: Joshi Manoj
Published: May 2017

Purpose

The case aims around transition and threats to survival in a brick kiln family business. Second, it stimulates an understanding on the need toward collective decision making by the family during the maturity stage of the family business. The purpose of this paper besides addressing entrepreneurship is to examine the “family-ness” in a family business and its benefits, the transition management issues and to understand the difficulties in handling conflicts during succession and transition cycle in a closely held family business.

Design/methodology/approach

The case is based on primary research, which is exploratory and secondary information followed by testing the case several times. To authenticate information, multiple sources of information with individual interviews both structured and unstructured at different levels have been used in a time frame of over one year.

Findings

The competency of the business purely lies in the quality of the product, utilization of market opportunity, harnessing capability, honesty and complete involvement in business. Undoubtedly, the family business has reflected growth but its existence in near future is doubtful due to certain exogenous uncontrollable factors, such as restriction by government regulation. The subsequent generation desires to actively participate in the family business. However, it is constrained by the new government regulations and the business life cycle. Thus, the family is reluctantly compelled to start focusing on newer alternatives or business ideas. Transitions, both in business and in family, have posed a challenge to the founder. Should the family continue in the same business with added constraints or the next generation starts building on a new idea as an option and spin-off from existing family business? These are scenarios for trade-offs.

Research limitations/implications

The case is restricted to transition in business and in family, within a traditional family business of brick kilns. It is about a strategic choice impending with the founder and his siblings. Interpretations may be connected with related family businesses; however, riders exist, as different firms falling under different industry verticals undergo unique scenarios.

Practical implications

The outcome of the research-based case study shall assist entrepreneurs in the brick kiln industry to understand transition issues and challenges imposed upon due to changing government regulations.

Social implications

Implications exist for practitioners who may like to anticipate conflict arising due to transition and have mitigation techniques in place.

Originality/value

The case is original, while the new generation is looking to switch or diversify the business.
Mergers and acquisitions in family businesses: current literature and future insights
Authors: Worek Maija
Published: May 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the current state of literature concerning mergers and acquisitions (M&A) in family businesses and to highlight areas for future research.

Design/methodology/approach

This literature review systematically analyses the findings of 41 journal articles on M&A in family businesses, identifying key thematic categories according to the main topics of the studies.

Findings

This study finds that it is important to distinguish and examine the type of governance, such as family and non-family, when studying M&A issues, because their distinctive features influence their strategic choices, business goals, and, thus, M&A behavior. Three topic areas are identified in existing research: M&A propensity, process, and performance. Furthermore, methodological and definitional issues regarding the findings are discussed.

Research limitations/implications

The findings imply that owing to their idiosyncratic nature, the use of alternative theoretical frameworks in addition to agency theory is encouraged in future studies in order to better capture the nature of family businesses. In general, further research on M&A issues in family business settings is needed, especially in the pre-merger phase, which is crucial to M&A performance.

Social implications

Overlooking particular issues that may arise in the context of transactions involving family businesses may lead to problems in M&A processes. Recognizing the importance of these issues in such transactions has important value for practitioners supporting family businesses in M&A processes.

Originality/value

This study takes the first step in analyzing the literature on M&A in family businesses, establishing linkages between family business, corporate governance, and financial management literature, and structuring the existing research to highlight opportunities with relevance for both theory and practice.
Can lean contribute to work intensification in healthcare?
Authors: Rees Gareth H. , Gauld Robin
Published: May 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to review and discuss the effects of the introduction of lean into healthcare workplaces, phenomena that have not been widely investigated.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper draws on discussions and findings from the literature. It seeks to bring the few geographically dispersed experiences and case studies together to draw some conclusions regarding lean’s negative effects.

Findings

Two recurring themes emerge. The first is there is little evidence of Lean’s impact on work and the people who perform it. The literature therefore suggests that we understand very little about how work conditions are changed and how Lean’s negative effects arise and may be managed in healthcare workplaces. A second observation is that Lean’s effects are ambiguous. For some Lean seems to intensify work, while for others it leads to improved job satisfaction and productivity. Given this variety, the paper suggests a research emphasis on Lean’s socio-cultural side and to derive more data on how work and its processes change, particularly in the context of healthcare team-working.

Originality/value

The paper concludes that without improved understanding of social contexts of Lean interventions its value for healthcare improvement may be limited. Future research should also include a focus on how the work is changed and whether high-performance work system practices may be used to offset Lean’s negative effects.
Organizing for teamwork in healthcare: an alternative to team training?
Authors: Rydenfält Christofer , Odenrick Per , Larsson Per Anders
Published: May 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore how organizational design could support teamwork and to identify organizational design principles that promote successful teamwork.

Design/methodology/approach

Since traditional team training sessions take resources away from production, the alternative approach pursued here explores the promotion of teamwork by means of organizational design. A wide and pragmatic definition of teamwork is applied: a team is considered to be a group of people that are set to work together on a task, and teamwork is then what they do in relation to their task. The input – process – output model of teamwork provides structure to the investigation.

Findings

Six teamwork enablers from the healthcare team literature – cohesion, collaboration, communication, conflict resolution, coordination, and leadership – are discussed, and the organizational design measures required to implement them are identified. Three organizational principles are argued to facilitate the teamwork enablers: team stability, occasions for communication, and a participative and adaptive approach to leadership.

Research limitations/implications

The findings could be used as a foundation for intervention studies to improve team performance or as a framework for evaluation of existing organizations.

Practical implications

By implementing these organizational principles, it is possible to achieve many of the organizational traits associated with good teamwork. Thus, thoughtful organization for teamwork can be used as an alternative or complement to the traditional team training approach.

Originality/value

With regards to the vast literature on team training, this paper offers an alternative perspective on how to improve team performance in healthcare.
Supporting 3D modeling in the academic library
Authors: Radniecki Tara
Published: May 2017

Purpose

An increased number of academic libraries are providing access to nontraditional technologies including 3D printers, 3D scanners, laser cutters, and more. However, these new equipment offerings require users to learn new literacies and skills in order to fully utilize them and realize their full potential to impact creativity and innovation on campus. The purpose of this paper is to share how one academic library is providing services and resources to help users acquire the necessary 3D modeling skills to design and successfully 3D print new knowledge objects.

Design/methodology/approach

The library is providing access to online tutorials on many different 3D modeling programs, gives instruction on 3D modeling through group workshops, and provides individual consultations with 3D modeling experts. These instruction efforts were assessed by analyzing usage statistics, attendance, and user satisfaction surveys.

Findings

Usage statistics show that the online tutorials are heavily utilized by UNR users and that many different 3D modeling programs are of interest to our community. Usage statistics and user surveys show the individual consultation service to be helpful and often exceeding expectations. Workshop attendance is generally low and appears to positively impact far fewer users than the other services.

Originality/value

While more libraries begin providing access to maker technologies, few are addressing the need to teach new skills and literacies necessary to utilize those technologies fully. This paper may prove valuable for other academic libraries to start providing avenues of learning for new and nontraditional library skills, such as 3D modeling.
Do usage counts of scientific data make sense? An investigation of the Dryad repository
Authors: He Lin , Han Zhengbiao
Published: May 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the impact of scientific data in order to assess the reliability of data to support data curation, to establish trust between researchers to support reuse of digital data and encourage researchers to share more data.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors compared the correlations between usage counts of associated data in Dryad and citation counts of articles in Web of Science in different subject areas in order to assess the possibility of using altmetric indicators to evaluate scientific data.

Findings

There are high positive correlations between usage counts of data and citation counts of associated articles. The citation counts of article’s shared data are higher than the average citation counts in most of the subject areas examined by the authors.

Practical implications

The paper suggests that usage counts of data could be potentially used to evaluate scholarly impact of scientific data, especially for those subject areas without special data repositories.

Originality/value

The study examines the possibility to use usage counts to evaluate the impact of scientific data in a generic repository Dryad by different subject categories.
Impact of investors’ protection, transparency level and legal origin on initial public offering (IPO) initial returns
Authors: Sundarasen Sheela , Goel Sanjay , Zulaini Fairuz Ahmad
Published: May 2017

Purpose

Managers may underprice initial public offerings (IPOs), leading to higher initial returns (IRs). The purpose of this paper is multi-fold: to compensate investors for risk, to reduce litigation risk, as well as to maintain control over the firm. The authors examine country-level contingencies (degree of investor protection, legal origin and degree of transparency) in OECD countries to explain IPO IRs.

Design/methodology/approach

Cross-sectional data comprising of 4,164 IPOs from 28 OECD countries are used for the period of 2005-2010. Ordinary least square using multiple linear regressions is used to test the hypotheses.

Findings

Investors’ protection is associated with higher IRs. This relationship is stronger in the non-common law countries. Degree of transparency negatively moderates the relationship in common law countries. Overall, the results show evidence of risk compensation, litigation risk reduction, and managerial control motives in underpricing.

Originality/value

IPO IRs in OECD countries is examined, within the boundaries of institutional characteristics, i.e., investors’ protection, legal origin and transparency level.
The Power of Exclusion using Automated Osteometric Sorting: Pair‐Matching,
Authors: Lynch Jeffrey James , Byrd John , LeGarde Carrie B.
Published: May 2017

This study compares the original pair‐matching osteometric sorting model (J Forensic Sci 2003;48:717) against two new models providing validation and performance testing across three samples. The samples include the Forensic Data Bank, USS Oklahoma, and the osteometric sorting reference used within the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency. A computer science solution to generating dynamic statistical models across a commingled assemblage is presented. The issue of normality is investigated showing the relative robustness against non‐normality and a data transformation to control for normality. A case study is provided showing the relative exclusion power of all three models from an active commingled case within the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency. In total, 14,357,220 osteometric t‐tests were conducted. The results indicate that osteometric sorting performs as expected despite reference samples deviating from normality. The two new models outperform the original, and one of those is recommended to supersede the original for future osteometric sorting work.
Economic Regulation in Australia: The Case of the New South Wales Gas
Authors: Abbott Malcolm , Ma Xiaoying
Published: May 2017

As most utilities in Australia in the past were government owned, researchers of Australian market regulation have tended not to pay much attention to utility regulation. This has meant that the main Australian experience of the regulation of privately owned utilities has been neglected – that of the gas industry. In this industry, price regulation has been carried out since 1912 in the major urban centres of the Australian state of New South Wales. This article aims, therefore, to look at the changes that have occurred to this regulation over the longer term, with an emphasis on the post‐World War II period. In doing so, the types of regulation in New South Wales will be identified and related to changes both in Australia and in overseas.
Trajectories of attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder dimensions in adults
Authors: Karam R. G. , Rovaris D. L. , Breda V. , Picon F. A. , Victor M. M. , Salgado C. A. I. , Vitola E. S. , Mota N. R. , Silva K. L. , Meller M. , Rohde L. A. , Grevet E. H. , Bau C. H. D.
Published: May 2017

Objective

There is a lack of available information on the trajectories of attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) dimensions during adulthood. This study investigates the course and the predictors of change for each ADHD domain in a clinical sample of adults with ADHD.

Method

Adults with ADHD (n = 344) were followed up for 7 years, with a final retention rate of 66.0%. Trajectories of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity and their potential predictors were examined.

Results

On average, symptoms declined in all ADHD domains during follow‐up. Despite this, rises in inattentive, hyperactive, and impulsive symptoms were observed in approximately 13%, 25%, and 17% of patients respectively. Different predictors influenced the trajectory of each ADHD dimension. Oppositional defiant disorder and social phobia were associated with the maintenance of symptoms, while alcohol use disorder was associated with both maintenance and rise of symptoms.

Conclusion

Unexpectedly, a rise in the symptoms after 7 years was not uncommon in adults with ADHD. Prevalent comorbidities have the potential to influence the neurodevelopment and the trajectory of ADHD. Therefore, such predictors should be investigated in population cohorts to better characterize the course of ADHD. Additionally, these findings may be relevant in prevention studies and in strategies for ADHD treatment.
Effects of Orthostatism and Hemodialysis on Mean Heart Period and Fractal Heart Rate Properties of Chronic Renal Failure Patients
Authors: Echeverría Juan C. , Infante Oscar , Pérez‐Grovas Héctor , González Hortensia , José Marco V. , Lerma Claudia
Published: May 2017

The aim of this work was to evaluate the short‐term fractal index (α1) of heart rate variability (HRV) in chronic renal failure (CRF) patients by identifying the effects of orthostatism and hemodialysis (HD), and by evaluating the correlation between α1 and the mean RR interval from sinus beats (meanNN). HRV time series were derived from ECG data of 19 CRF patients and 20 age‐matched healthy subjects obtained at supine and orthostatic positions (lasting 5 min each). Data from CRF patients were collected before and after HD. α1 was calculated from each time series and compared by analysis of variance. Pearson's correlations between meanNN and α1 were calculated using the data from both positions by considering three groups: healthy subjects, CRF before HD and CRF after HD. At supine position, α1 of CRF patients after HD (1.17 ± 0.30) was larger (P < 0.05) than in healthy subjects (0.89 ± 0.28) but not before HD (1.10 ± 0.34). α1 increased (P < 0.05) in response to orthostatism in healthy subjects (1.29 ± 0.26) and CRF patients after HD (1.34 ± 0.31), but not before HD (1.25 ± 0.37). Whereas α1 was correlated (P < 0.05) with the meanNN of healthy subjects (r = −0.562) and CRF patients after HD (r = −0.388), no significance in CRF patients before HD was identified (r = 0.003). Multiple regression analysis confirmed that α1 was mainly predicted by the orthostatic position (in all groups) and meanNN (healthy subjects and patients after HD), showing no association with the renal disease condition in itself. In conclusion, as in healthy subjects, α1 of CRF patients correlates with meanNN after HD (indicating a more irregular‐like HRV behavior at slower heart rates). This suggests that CRF patients with stable blood pressure preserve a regulatory adaptability despite a shifted setting point of the heart period (i.e., higher heart rate) in comparison with healthy subjects.
Up to 89% of neonates received antibiotics in cross‐sectional Indian study including those with no infections and unclear diagnoses
Authors: Hauge Camilla , Stålsby Lundborg Cecilia , Mandaliya Jagdish , Marrone Gaetano , Sharma Megha
Published: May 2017

Aim

There is a global lack of data on antibiotic prescribing for neonates. This study compared antibiotic prescribing practices in the neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) of two private‐sector, tertiary‐level hospitals.

Methods

A three‐year, cross‐sectional study was conducted from 2008 to 2011 in the NICUs of a teaching and nonteaching hospital in the Ujjain district of India. The data were analysed using methods recommended by the World Health Organization.

Results

Of the 1789 inpatients, 89% (1399/1572) in the nonteaching hospital and 71% (154/217) in the teaching hospital were prescribed antibiotics and 123 patients died. All the antibiotics were prescribed empirically and cephalosporins and aminoglycosides were the most commonly prescribed subclasses. Fixed‐dose combinations of cephalosporins were commonly prescribed in the nonteaching hospital. Neonatal sepsis was the most common diagnosis, in more than 30% of patients, and more than 93% neonates with sepsis were prescribed antibiotics. In addition, 40% of neonates in the nonteaching hospital were admitted for observation and were frequently prescribed antibiotics.

Conclusion

These two Indian NICUs prescribed antibiotics for noninfectious or unclear diagnoses in addition to prescribing combinations of broad‐spectrum antibiotics. Such practices increase the global risk of treatment failure, neonatal mortality rates and antibiotic resistance.
Characterizing the Alabastro listato or fiorito of Hierapolis in Phrygia: A Simple Method to Identify its Provenance using Carbon Stable Isotopes
Authors: Brilli M. , Giustini F. , Barone P. M. , Fayek A. , Scardozzi G.
Published: May 2017

Alabastro listato or fiorito of Hierapolis in Phrygia was a prestigious coloured marble widely used in Roman architecture and decoration. This stone is generally identified in artefacts on autoptic examination, but it may sometimes be confused with alabasters of different provenances. This study describes a simple, but effective, scientific method to contribute to the determination of Hierapolis alabaster. Due to its unique genetic context, it is characterized by a distinctive carbon isotope signature. A comparison between the stable carbon isotope data from this paper and from the literature confirms the uniqueness of the isotopic character of Hierapolis alabaster. Carbon isotopes can ensure a reliably provenance attribution of the alabaster artefacts along with visual recognition by an expert eye.
Novel selective PDE type 1 inhibitors cause vasodilatation and lower blood pressure in rats
Authors: Laursen Morten , Beck Lilliana , Kehler Jan , Christoffersen Claus Tornby , Bundgaard Christoffer , Mogensen Susie , Mow Tomas Joachim , Pinilla Estéfano , Knudsen Jakob Schöllhammer , Hedegaard Elise Røge , Grunnet Morten , Simonsen Ulf
Published: May 2017

Background and Purpose

The PDE enzymes (PDE1–11) hydrolyse and thus inactivate cyclic nucleotides and are important in the regulation of the cardiovascular system. Here,we have investigated the effects on the cardiovascular system, of two novel selective PDE1 inhibitors, Lu AF41228 and Lu AF58027.

Experimental Approach

We used rat mesenteric small arteries (internal diameters of 200–300 μm), RT‐PCR and measured isometric wall tension. Effects of Lu AF41228 and Lu AF58027 on heart rate and BP were assessed in both anaesthetized and conscious male rats.

Key Results

Nanomolar concentrations of Lu AF41228 and Lu AF58027 inhibited PDE1A, PDE1B and PDE1C enzyme activity, while micromolar concentrations were required to observe inhibitory effects at other PDEs. RT‐PCR revealed expression of PDE1A, PDE1B and PDE1C in rat brain, heart and aorta, but only PDE1A and PDE1B in mesenteric arteries. In rat isolated mesenteric arteries contracted with phenylephrine or U46619, Lu AF41228 and Lu AF58027 induced concentration‐dependent relaxations which were markedly reduced by inhibitors of guanylate cyclase, ODQ, and adenylate cyclase, SQ22536, and in preparations without endothelium. In anaesthetized rats, Lu AF41228 and Lu AF58027 dose‐dependently lowered mean BP and increased heart rate. In conscious rats with telemetric pressure transducers, repeated dosing with Lu AF41228 lowered mean arterial BP 10–15 mmHg and increased heart rate.

Conclusions and Implications

These novel PDE1 inhibitors induce vasodilation and lower BP, suggesting a potential use of these vasodilators in the treatment of hypertension and vasospasm.
Single and combined effects of Δ9‐tetrahydrocannabinol and cannabidiol in a mouse model of chemotherapy‐induced neuropathic pain
Authors: King Kirsten M , Myers Alyssa M , Soroka‐Monzo Ariele J , Tuma Ronald F , Tallarida Ronald J , Walker Ellen A , Ward Sara Jane
Published: May 2017

Background and Purpose

The non‐psychoactive phytocannabinoid cannabidiol (CBD) can affect the pharmacological effects of Δ9‐tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). We tested the possible synergy between CBD and THC in decreasing mechanical sensitivity in a mouse model of paclitaxel‐induced neuropathic pain. We also tested the effects of CBD on oxaliplatin‐ and vincristine‐induced mechanical sensitivity.

Experimental Approach

Paclitaxel‐treated mice (8.0 mg·kg−1 i.p., days 1, 3, 5 and 7) were pretreated with CBD (0.625–20.0 mg·kg−1 i.p.), THC (0.625–20.0 mg·kg−1 i.p.) or CBD + THC (0.04 + 0.04–20.0 + 20.0 mg·kg−1 i.p.), and mechanical sensitivity was assessed on days 9, 14 and 21. Oxaliplatin‐treated (6.0 mg·kg−1 i.p., day 1) or vincristine‐treated mice (0.1 mg·kg−1 i.p. days 1–7) were pretreated with CBD (1.25–10.0 mg·kg−1 i.p.), THC (10.0 mg·kg−1 i.p.) or THC + CBD (0.16 mg·kg−1 THC + 0.16 mg·kg−1 CBD i.p.).

Key Results

Both CBD and THC alone attenuated mechanical allodynia in mice treated with paclitaxel. Very low ineffective doses of CBD and THC were synergistic when given in combination. CBD also attenuated oxaliplatin‐ but not vincristine‐induced mechanical sensitivity, while THC significantly attenuated vincristine‐ but not oxaliplatin‐induced mechanical sensitivity. The low dose combination significantly attenuated oxaliplatin‐ but not vincristine‐induced mechanical sensitivity.

Conclusions and Implications

CBD may be potent and effective at preventing the development of chemotherapy‐induced peripheral neuropathy, and its clinical use may be enhanced by co‐administration of low doses of THC. These treatment strategies would increase the therapeutic window of cannabis‐based pharmacotherapies.
Sociodemographic determinants of spatial disparities in early childhood caries: An ecological analysis in Braunschweig, Germany
Authors: Meyer Frederic , Karch André , Schlinkmann Kristin Maria , Dreesman Johannes , Horn Johannes , Rübsamen Nicole , Sudradjat Henny , Schubert Rainer , Mikolajczyk Rafael
Published: May 2017

Objectives

To identify spatial disparities in dental caries experience (measured by dmft (decayed missing filled teeth) index) of children in the city of Braunschweig and to evaluate whether these disparities can be explained by sociodemographic characteristics.

Methods

We examined the dental health of children aged 3‐6 years visiting a daycare centre (DCC) in the metropolitan area of Braunschweig between 2009 and 2014 by combining data on dental health from the annual visits of the local health service with aggregated data on sociodemographic factors for Braunschweig's city districts. We assessed longitudinal patterns of change in average dmft index at district level from 2009 to 2014 using a finite mixture model. We analysed spatial autocorrelation of the district's average dmft indices by Moran's I to identify spatial clusters. With a spatial lag model, we evaluated whether sociodemographic risk factors (data from 2012) were associated with high dmft scores (data from 2014) and whether spatial disparities remained after adjusting for these sociodemographic characteristics.

Results

The average dmft index decreased slightly (β=−0.048; P<.03; CI 95% [−0.079; −0.017]) from 2009 to 2014. The finite mixture model resulted in four different groups of trajectories over time. While three groups showed a decrease in dmft score, one group showed an increase from 2009 to 2014. Moran's I test statistic showed strong evidence for spatial clustering (Moran's I 0.30, P=.002). A cluster of districts with high dmft values was identified in the centre of the city. The spatial lag model showed that both the proportion of unemployed persons (aged 16‐65) and the proportion of persons with migration background were associated with the dmft values at district level. After adjusting for these, no further spatial heterogeneity was observed.

Conclusion

We identified regional clusters for poor dental health in a German city and showed that these clusters can be explained by sociodemographic characteristics. The findings support the need of targeted interventions and prevention measures in regions with less favourable sociodemographic characteristics.
CHARITABLE GIVING, EMOTIONS, AND THE DEFAULT EFFECT
Authors: Fiala Lenka , Noussair Charles N.
Published: May 2017

We report an experiment to study the effect of defaults on charitable giving. In three different treatments, participants face varying default levels of donation. In three other treatments that are paired with the first three, they receive the same defaults, but are informed that defaults are thought to have an effect on their donation decisions. The emotional state of all individuals is monitored throughout the sessions using Facereading software, and some participants are required to report their emotional state after the donation decision. We find that the level at which a default is set has no effect on donations, and informing individuals of the possible impact of defaults also has no effect. Individuals who are happier and in a more positive overall emotional state donate more. Donors experience a negative change in the valence of their emotional state subsequent to donating, when valence is measured with Facereading software. This contrasts with the self‐report data, in which donating correlates with a more positive reported subsequent emotional state. (JEL C91)
Mesiotemporal atrophy and hippocampal diffusivity distinguish amnestic from non‐amnestic vascular cognitive impairment
Authors: Hosseini A. A. , Meng D. , Simpson R. J. , Auer D. P.
Published: May 2017

Background and purpose

The role of clinical factors, cerebral infarcts and hippocampal damage in vascular cognitive impairment (VCI) subtypes remains unclear.

Methods

Non‐demented patients with carotid stenosis and recent transient ischemic attack/stroke had cognitive assessment and brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Amnestic VCI was defined as memory impairment; non‐amnestic VCI was any other subdomain impairment. Associations of MRI metrics [log‐transformed total ischemic lesion load (log TILL), mesiotemporal atrophy (MTA) score, hippocampal mean diffusivity (hipMD)] with cognitive performance were assessed.

Results

A hundred and eight patients, 47 with amnestic VCI and 21 with non‐amnestic VCI, were assessed. A higher MTA (odds ratio 12.89, P = 0.001) and left hipMD (odds ratio 4.43, P = 0.003) contributed to amnestic VCI versus normal. Age‐adjusted fluency correlated with log TILL (P = 0.002). Age‐adjusted memory was associated with left hipMD (P = 0.001), MTA (P < 0.001) but not log TILL (P = 0.14). Left hipMD, MTA and smoking showed classification potential between amnestic VCI versus normal (area 0.859, P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Neuroimaging assists stratification in amnestic VCI characterized by hippocampal changes and in non‐amnestic VCI by higher ischemic burden. MTA and hippocampal diffusivity show diagnostic biomarker potential.
Moms growing together: Piloting action methods and expressive arts in a therapeutic group for teen mothers
Authors: SmithBattle Lee , Chantamit‐o‐pas Chutima , Freed Patricia , McLaughlin Dorcas , Schneider Joanne K.
Published: May 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this pilot study was to test the safety, acceptability, feasibility, and effectiveness of Moms Growing Together (MGT), an intervention to prevent and reduce psychological distress in teen mothers.

Study Design and Methods

A mixed method design was used. The primary outcomes were reported satisfaction with MGT (acceptance); successful recruitment and retention of teen mothers (feasibility); and prevention or reduction of psychological distress (safety and effectiveness). Summary scores on each of three symptom measures operationally defined psychological distress. Sixteen African‐American teen mothers participated in the study: eight in MGT and eight in a comparison group.

Results

MGT was considered safe and acceptable. MGT had a negative small effect (effect size [ES] = –0.028) on decreasing depression in participants and a moderate effect in reducing anxiety (ES = 0.395) and trauma symptoms (ES = 0.521–0.554) relative to the comparison group. Prolonged recruitment limited feasibility.

Conclusion

Because psychological distress casts a long shadow on teen mothers’ well‐being, developing teen‐friendly clinical programs that address their mental health is a high priority.
Hard and soft tissue integration of immediate and delayed implants with a modified coronal macrodesign: Histological, micro‐CT and volumetric soft tissue changes from a pre‐clinical in vivo study
Authors: Sanz‐Martin Ignacio , Vignoletti Fabio , Nuñez Javier , Permuy Maria , Muñoz Fernando , Sanz‐Esporrín Javier , Fierravanti Ludovica , Shapira Lior , Sanz Mariano
Published: May 2017

Aim

To study the healing of peri‐implant tissues around implants with a triangular coronal third (test) or cylindrical (control).

Materials and Methods

In eight beagle dogs, immediate and delayed implants were placed. Test and control implants were randomly assigned and the hard and soft tissue healing was evaluated with histology and micro‐CT analysis at 4 and 12 weeks. The soft tissue contour changes were assessed by image analysis software.

Results

When measured at the implant shoulder level, the buccal crestal width (primary outcome assessed in mm) attained similar values in test and control implants. More apically (3 mm) test implants had greater buccal crestal width in delayed and immediate sites. For vertical soft and hard tissue measurements, no significant differences were found between Test and Control. Micro‐CT evaluation of the buccal volume of interest showed less volume of implant component in T implants in all sites, although bone volume was not significantly different between T/C. Soft tissue contours were similar around T/C implants.

Conclusion

Triangular implants showed similar percentage of osseointegration, buccal bone volume and soft tissue contours, although attaining greater buccal crestal bone width. No differences were found in regard to soft tissue dimensions and the position of the first bone‐to‐implant contact.
Practitioner Review: Empirical evolution of youth psychotherapy toward transdiagnostic approaches
Authors: Marchette Lauren Krumholz , Weisz John R.
Published: May 2017

Background

Psychotherapy for children and adolescents (herein, ‘youths’) has grown more precise and focused over the decades, shifting toward empirically supported treatments standardized via therapist manuals. The manuals have increasingly emphasized precise targeting of single disorders or problems, or homogenous clusters. These focal treatments represent a valuable advance, with intervention benefit documented in hundreds of studies. However, relatively few of these treatments are widely used in everyday clinical practice, and their level of benefit may not be ideal, particularly in practice contexts and when compared to usual clinical care.

Thesis

These limitations may be due, in part, to a mismatch between focal treatment design and the young people treated in real‐world clinical care, who are diagnostically heterogeneous, and very frequently present with comorbidity. Improved fit may be achieved via transdiagnostic treatment approaches designed to address multiple disorders and problems, if these approaches can retain the benefits of manualization and the substantive clinical strength that has generated empirical support to date.

Scope

Here we review the evolution of empirically‐based youth psychotherapy from focal treatment manuals toward transdiagnostic approaches, and we describe and illustrate three transdiagnostic treatment strategies: (a) a core dysfunction approach, (b) a common elements and modular design approach, and (c) a principle‐guided approach.

Clinical applications

We complement research findings with a clinical perspective based on our use of manual‐guided transdiagnostic intervention in clinical care settings, and we propose directions for research and practice.
Mass spawning aggregation of the giant bumphead parrotfish Bolbometopon muricatum
Authors: Roff G. , Doropoulos C. , Mereb G. , Mumby P. J.
Published: May 2017

The present study reports a previously undocumented mass spawning aggregation and group spawning phenomena of c. 1200 individual bumphead parrotfish Bolbometopon muricatum in Palau, Micronesia. Although B. muricatum are protected in Palau, it is further recommended that management strategies should consider establishment of no‐take zones at B. muricatum spawning aggregations and concomitant sleeping grounds elsewhere.
Phenotype of Aeromonas salmonicida sp. salmonicida cyclic adenosine 3′,5′‐monophosphate receptor protein (Crp) mutants and its virulence in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss)
Authors: Valderrama K , Saravia M , Santander J
Published: May 2017

Precise deletion of genes related to virulence can be used as a strategy to produce attenuated bacterial vaccines. Here, we study the deletion of the cyclic‐3′,5′‐adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) receptor protein (Crp) in Aeromonas salmonicida, the aetiologic agent of furunculosis in marine and freshwater fish. The Crp protein is a conserved global regulator, controlling physiology processes, like sugar utilization. Deletion of the crp gene has been utilized in live attenuated vaccines for mammals, birds and warm water fish. Here, we characterized the crp gene and reported the effect of a crp deletion in A. salmonicida virulent and non‐virulent isolates. We found that A. salmonicida Δcrp was not able to utilize maltose and other sugars, and its generation time was similar to the wild type. A. salmonicida ∆crp showed a higher ability of cell invasion compared to the wild type. Fish challenges showed that A. salmonicida ∆crp is ~6 times attenuated in Oncorhynchus mykiss and conferred protective immunity against the intraperitoneal challenge with A. salmonicida wild type. We concluded that deletion of A. salmonicida crp influences sugar utilization, cell invasion and virulence. Deletion of crp in A. salmonicida could be considered as part of an effective strategy to develop immersion live attenuated vaccines against furunculosis.
Assessment of factors associated with smoking cessation at diagnosis or during follow‐up of Crohn's disease
Authors: Song Eun Mi , Kim Gwang‐Un , Seo Myeongsook , Hwang Sung Wook , Park Sang Hyoung , Kwon Eunja , Lee Ho‐Su , Yang Dong‐Hoon , Kim Kyung‐Jo , Ye Byong Duk , Byeon Jeong‐Sik , Myung Seung‐Jae , Yang Suk‐Kyun
Published: May 2017

Background and Aim

Smoking cessation is known to improve the course of Crohn's disease (CD). However, the factors associated with smoking cessation after CD diagnosis have not been well established.

Methods

Clinical characteristics and change in smoking status were evaluated in 445 current smokers at the time of CD diagnosis. Patients were classified into three subgroups based on their final smoking status and time of smoking cessation: non‐quitters, quitters at diagnosis, and quitters during follow‐up.

Results

The overall smoking cessation rate was 55.7% (248 of 445 patients). The diagnosis of CD was the main reason for quitting (41.5%, 103 of 248 patients). Smoking cessation at the time of CD diagnosis was associated with intestinal resection within 3 months from CD diagnosis (odds ratio [OR] 2.355, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.348–4.116, P = 0.003), light smoking (OR 2.041, 95% CI 1.157–3.602, P = 0.014), and initiation of smoking before 18 years of age (OR 0.570, 95% CI 0.327–0.994, P = 0.047). Light smoking (OR 1.762, 95% CI 1.019–3.144, P = 0.043) and initiation of smoking before 18 years (OR 0.588, 95% CI 0.381–0.908, P = 0.017) were also associated with overall smoking cessation.

Conclusion

Quitters after CD diagnosis, including quitters at diagnosis and quitters during follow‐up, had features distinct from those of non‐quitters. Given the motivation at CD diagnosis, a detailed history of smoking habits should be taken and all current smokers should be encouraged to quit smoking at the time of CD diagnosis.
Oral Health and Dental Care in Older Asian Americans in Central Texas
Authors: Jang Yuri , Yoon Hyunwoo , Park Nan Sook , Chiriboga David A.
Published: May 2017

Objectives

To examine factors associated with dental health insurance, self‐rated oral health, and use of preventive dental care services in older Asian Americans.

Design

Cross‐sectional survey.

Setting

The Asian American Quality of Life Survey was conducted with 2,614 Asian Americans living in central Texas using questionnaires available in English and six Asian languages.

Participants

Asian American Quality of Life Survey participants aged 60 and older (N = 533; mean age = 69.4 ± 6.9).

Measurements

Participants were asked whether they had insurance that covered the cost of any dental visit, how they would rate their overall oral health status, and whether they had visited a dental clinic for a routine examination in the past 12 months. Information was also collected on sociodemographic and immigration‐related variables.

Results

More than 61% of the sample had no dental health insurance, 45% reported that their oral health was fair or poor, and 44% had not used preventive dental care services. A series of logistic regression analyses identified factors posing a significant risk to oral health and dental care. For example, those with limited English proficiency were 3.5 times as likely to lack dental health insurance and 3.2 times as likely to rate their oral health as fair or poor. The odds of not using preventive dental care services were 6.4 times as great in those without dental health insurance.

Conclusion

The overall findings call attention to efforts to promote oral health and dental care in older Asian Americans.
Research Priorities to Advance the Health and Health Care of Older Adults with Multiple Chronic Conditions
Authors: Tisminetzky Mayra , Bayliss Elizabeth A. , Magaziner Jay S. , Allore Heather G. , Anzuoni Kathryn , Boyd Cynthia M. , Gill Thomas M. , Go Alan S. , Greenspan Susan L. , Hanson Leah R. , Hornbrook Mark C. , Kitzman Dalane W. , Larson Eric B. , Naylor Mary D. , Shirley Benjamin E. , Tai‐Seale Ming , Teri Linda , Tinetti Mary E. , Whitson Heather E. , Gurwitz Jerry H.
Published: May 2017

Objectives

To prioritize research topics relevant to the care of the growing population of older adults with multiple chronic conditions (MCCs).

Design

Survey of experts in MCC practice, research, and policy. Topics were derived from white papers, funding announcements, or funded research projects relating to older adults with MCCs.

Setting

Survey conducted through the Health Care Systems Research Network (HCSRN) and Claude D. Pepper Older Americans Independence Centers (OAICs) Advancing Geriatrics Infrastructure and Network Growth Initiative, a joint endeavor of the HCSRN and OAICs.

Participants

Individuals affiliated with the HCSRN or OAICs and national MCC experts, including individuals affiliated with funding agencies having MCC‐related grant portfolios.

Measurements

A “top box” methodology was used, counting the number of respondents selecting the top response on a 5‐point Likert scale and dividing by the total number of responses to calculate a top box percentage for each of 37 topics.

Results

The highest‐ranked research topics relevant to the health and healthcare of older adults with MCCs were health‐related quality of life in older adults with MCCs; development of assessment tools (to assess, e.g., symptom burden, quality of life, function); interactions between medications, disease processes, and health outcomes; disability; implementation of novel (and scalable) models of care; association between clusters of chronic conditions and clinical, financial, and social outcomes; role of caregivers; symptom burden; shared decision‐making to enhance care planning; and tools to improve clinical decision‐making.

Conclusion

Study findings serve to inform the development of a comprehensive research agenda to address the challenges relating to the care of this “high‐need, high‐cost” population and the healthcare delivery systems responsible for serving it.
Digital dissection of the model organism Xenopus laevis using contrast‐enhanced computed tomography
Authors: Porro Laura B. , Richards Christopher T.
Published: May 2017

The African clawed frog, Xenopus laevis, is one of the most widely used model organisms in biological research. However, the most recent anatomical description of X. laevis was produced nearly a century ago. Compared with other anurans, pipid frogs – including X. laevis – exhibit numerous unusual morphological features; thus, anatomical descriptions of more ‘typical’ frogs do not detail many aspects of X. laevis skeletal and soft‐tissue morphology. The relatively new method of using iodine‐based agents to stain soft tissues prior to high‐resolution X‐ray imaging has several advantages over gross dissection, such as enabling dissection of very small and fragile specimens, and preserving the three‐dimensional topology of anatomical structures. Here, we use contrast‐enhanced computed tomography to produce a high‐resolution three‐dimensional digital dissection of a post‐metamorphic X. laevis to successfully visualize: skeletal and muscular anatomy; the nervous, respiratory, digestive, excretory and reproductive systems; and the major sense organs. Our digital dissection updates and supplements previous anatomical descriptions of this key model organism, and we present the three‐dimensional data as interactive portable document format (PDF) files that are easily accessible and freely available for research and educational purposes. The data presented here hold enormous potential for applications beyond descriptive purposes, particularly for biological researchers using this taxon as a model organism, comparative anatomy and biomechanical modelling.
Anatomical relationship of maxillary posterior teeth with the sinus floor and buccal cortex
Authors: Jang J. K. , Kwak S. W. , Ha J. H. , Kim H. C.
Published: May 2017

This study aimed to evaluate the possibility of root fenestration or oroantral communication by evaluating the distance from root apex to the sinus floor and buccal cortex in maxillary posterior teeth using cone‐beam computed tomography (CBCT) images. The study included 2182 roots of the maxillary posterior teeth from 219 patients after reviewing CBCT images of 462 patients according to the location of roots by two endodontists. The distances from each root apex to the maxillary sinus floor and buccal and palatal cortices were evaluated according to sex and age, and the mean values were compared by one‐way analysis of variance and Mann–Whitney U‐test. The distance between root apex and maxillary sinus floor was the greatest in maxillary first premolars and shortest in the mesio‐buccal roots of maxillary second molars. The distances from root apex to the buccal and palatal cortical bones were significantly greater in male patients than those in female patients (P < 0·05). The palatal roots of maxillary first molars exhibited the highest incidence as well as the greatest mean length (1·96 mm) of protrusion into the maxillary sinus. The distance from root apex to the sinus floor was found to increase with age, except in case of maxillary second premolars. Understanding the relationship of maxillary posterior teeth with the sinus floor and buccal cortex could provide clinicians valuable information to help reduce iatrogenic damage.