bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sytuacja Romów w Małopolsce jako przykład społecznego wykluczenia
Authors: Giza Marta
Published: February 2016

Wykluczenie społeczne wiąże się z ograniczeniem możliwości zaspokajania własnych potrzeb przez pewne jednostki bądź grupy społeczne. Za czynniki w największym stopniu łączące się z marginalizacją uznaje się ubóstwo oraz sytuację zdrowotną. Te z kolei związane są z sytuacją na rynku pracy i związanymi z nią problemami: bezrobociem, bezdomnością, niepełnosprawnością. Sytuacja Romów w Polsce po roku 1989 była bardzo trudna, co znalazło swój wyraz w krytycznych raportach międzynarodowych organizacji, zajmujących się badaniem sytuacji tej etnicznej mniejszości w państwach aspirujących do członkostwa w UE. Pierwszą konkretną próbą rozwiązania problemów tej grupy był Pilotażowy program na rzecz społeczności romskiej w województwie małopolskim ustanowiony w 2001 roku. Pozytywny odbiór społeczny programu sprawił, że działania były kontynuowane na obszarze całej Polski. Artykuł przedstawia aktualną sytuację Romów zamieszkujących Małopolskę po 13 latach działań programów integracyjnych, szczególnie w wymiarze związanym z edukacją, zatrudnieniem oraz sposobem odbierania tej grupy przez resztę społeczeństwa.
Nowe oblicze polityki w mediach – tabloidyzacja, infotainment, politainment i kreowanie faktów
Authors: Posyłek Małgorzata
Published: February 2016

XXI wiek w znacznym stopniu zmienił oblicze mediów. Proces mediatyzacji i tabloidyzacji polityki, która stała się uzależniona w swych funkcjach od środków masowego przekazu i stale jest kształtowana przez interakcje z nimi, dał okazję politykom do zdobycia rozgłosu i znalezienia się w gronie tzw. celebrytów. Kandydaci podobnie jak gwiazdy zabiegają o popularność, biorąc udział w licznych programach telewizyjnych, nie tylko o charakterze publicystycznym, ale także rozrywkowym, gdzie rozpoznawalność i popularność nie wynika z osiągnięć, lecz głównie z aprobaty publiczności. Tradycyjne wiadomości telewizyjne oraz programy publicystyczne mają coraz mniejszy zasięg odbiorców, a tym samym mniejsze znaczenie dla publicznego dyskursu. Sytuacja ta wpłynęła na pojawienie się nowego zjawiska określanego mianem infotainmet, a w przypadku dyskursu politycznego – politainment, w którym debaty polityczne noszą znamiona spektaklu skierowanego do konsumentów zamiast obywateli.
Initial Nutritional Assessment of Infants with Cleft Lip and/or Palate: Interventions and Return to Birth Weight
Authors: Kaye Alison , Thaete Kristi , Snell Audrey , Chesser Connie , Goldak Claudia , Huff Helen
Published: February 2016

Objective

To assess and quantify cleft team practices with regard to nutritional support in the neonatal period

Design

Retrospective review.

Setting

Tertiary pediatric hospital.

Patients

One hundred consecutive newborn patients with a diagnosis of cleft lip and/or cleft palate between 2009 and 2012.

Main Outcome Measures

Birth weight, cleft type, initial cleft team weight measurements, initial feeding practices, recommended nutritional interventions, and follow-up nutritional assessments.

Results

All patients in the study were evaluated by a registered dietitian and an occupational feeding therapist. Average birth weight and average age at the first cleft team visit were similar for each cleft type: cleft lip (CL), cleft lip and palate (CLP), and cleft palate (CP). The calculated age (in days) for return to birth weight was significantly different between cleft types: CL = 13.58 days, CLP = 15.88 days, and CP = 21.93 days. Exclusive use of breast milk was 50% for patients with CL, 30.3% for patients with CLP, and 21.4% for patients with CP. Detailed nutritional interventions were made for 31 patients at the first visit: two with CL, 14 with CLP, and 15 with CP.

Conclusions

Distinct differences were seen in neonatal weight gain between cleft types. There was significantly greater total weight gain for patients with CL at their first visit and significantly slower return to birth weight for patients with isolated CP. Patients with CL required far fewer interventions at the initial assessment and were more likely to be provided breast milk exclusively or in combination with formula. Infants with CP were far less likely to receive any breast milk. Patients with CLP and CP required frequent nutritional interventions.
Genetic Homozygosity and Phenotypic Variability in Craniosynostotic Rabbits
Authors: Gilbert James R. , Cray James J. , Kreithen Amy , Marazita Mary L. , Cooper Gregory M. , Losee Joseph E. , Siegel Michael I. , Mooney Mark P.
Published: February 2016

Background

Craniosynostosis ranges in severity from single suture involvement with prenatal onset to multiple suture involvement with postnatal onset. The present study was designed to test the hypothesis that increasing homozygosity may be responsible for more severe phenotypic expression by examining the relationship between inbreeding and phenotypic expression in synostotic rabbits.

Methods

Data were obtained from 173 litters and 209 rabbits with familial craniosynostosis. Five distinct phenotypes were identified (normal n = 62; unicoronal delayed onset synostosis (DOS) n = 47; bicoronal DOS n - 21; unicoronal early onset synostosis (EOS) n - 26, and bicoronal EOS n = 53). Wright's coefficients of inbreeding (CI) were calculated using CompuPed software. Radiographs were taken at 10, 25, 42, 84, and 126 days of age to assess coronal suture, craniofacial, and skeletal growth. The relationship between CI and growth data was assessed using correlation coefficients.

Results

Mean CIs ranged from 15.68 (±2.22) in normal rabbits to 25.89 (±5.03) in bicoronal DOS, to 36.29 (±2.10) in unicoronal EOS to 42.85 (±2.10) in bicoronal EOS rabbits. Significant differences were noted among groups (F - 11.48; P < .001). Significant negative correlations were noted between CI and sutural and craniofacial growth at 25 (r = -.45, P < .001; and r = -.66, P < .001) through 126 (r = -.40, P < .001 and r = -.46, P < .001) days of age.

Conclusions

While the synostotic phenotype is inherited in an autosomal dominant fashion in these rabbits, increasing homozygosity is associated with more severely affected phenotypes. These findings suggest that an accumulation of additional, modifier genes may determine the severity of the synostotic phenotype in rabbits.
Thermal conductivity of sand–kaolin clay mixtures
Authors: Yu Xinbao , Zhang Nan , Pradhan Asheesh , Puppala Anand J.
Published: February 2016

Thermal conductivity is a key parameter for the design of various geothermal structures such as geothermal energy piles, ground source heat pumps and soil borehole thermal energy storage. In this paper, the thermal conductivity of sand–kaolin clay mixtures prepared at varied moisture content, dry density and clay content was measured using a newly designed thermo-time domain reflectometry probe. The data revealed that the thermal conductivity of the sand–kaolin clay mixtures increased with an increase in moisture content and dry density. The thermal conductivity of the moist sand–kaolin mixtures decreased with an increase in clay content in two distinct regimes including a slow decrease in thermal conductivity above a critical clay content, which was found to be 10%. Five soil thermal conductivity models were selected to predict the thermal conductivity of the sand–kaolin clay mixtures, and the predictions were compared with the experimental results. Two models were modified to account for the effect of clay content on the thermal conductivity of the sand-clay mixtures. Recommendations regarding the design of energy geostructures were made based on the measured thermal conductivity data.
Retos del agua para usos residenciales e industriales
Authors: Cabrera-Marcet Enrique
Published: February 2016

En los países en los que predomina el uso del agua agrícola, es el caso de España, la demanda de los usos industriales y residenciales es, desde la óptica cuantitativa, un asunto irrelevante. Sin embargo, en las últimas décadas el agua urbana está ganando relevancia. Un elemental análisis de riesgos lo justifica: aunque incluso en periodos secos la probabilidad de que haya restricciones severas es baja, los costes asociados a esa escasez son extremadamente altos. Por ello, los problemas relacionados con los usos agrícolas son, en general, muy diferentes a los asociados con los usos residenciales e industriales y en pocas ocasiones ambos usos compiten. En general, puede afirmarse que sus problemas están desacoplados. Sin embargo, comparten su mayor reto, adecuar las políticas tradicionales al momento actual. Este artículo es una reflexión dedicada a los problemas a los que se enfrenta el agua urbana y a las estrategias que permiten gestionarla de modo más sostenible.
¿Está relacionada la eficiencia en el servicio urbano de agua con la titularidad del gestor?
Authors: Suárez-Varela Maciá Marta
Published: February 2016

El presente estudio tiene como objetivo realizar una revisión de la literatura acerca de qué forma de titularidad de los servicios de agua urbana, pública o privada, se muestra superior en términos de eficiencia. Con el fi n de arrojar luz sobre esta cuestión hemos realizado, en primer lugar, un análisis de la situación de la industria a nivel internacional. A continuación se ofrece una exposición de los principales argumentos a favor y en contra de la privatización para finalizar con el examen de la evidencia empírica al respecto. La revisión efectuada no nos permite concluir que alguna de las formas de gestión se muestre indiscutiblemente superior en términos de eficiencia. Sin embargo, es posible detectar a la vista de la misma algunos desafíos y recomendaciones para futuras investigaciones.
Adult’s Participation in Work-related Training: The Balance between Improving Job and a Desire for Learning
Authors: Renta Davids Ana Inés , Fandos-Garrido Manel , Jiménez-González José Miguel , González-Soto Ángel Pío
Published: February 2016

The study draws on findings from a survey of adults in non-formal continuing education under the professional training for employment framework in Spain. Quantitative analysis was carried out to a sample of 425 respondents from three different educational providers. Firstly, a factor analysis was conducted to fourteen motives for participation items. A two-dimension model of motivation to participate was identified: one dimension oriented towards job-improvement and the other dimension oriented towards learning. Secondly, a variance analysis was conducted according to demographics variables. Results showed significant statistical differences in the first dimension according to demographic variables. This might indicates an instrumental motivation in participation in work-related training among different groups who try to cope with different types of drawbacks.
Dialogue and Interaction in Early Childhood Education: A Systematic Review
Authors: García-Carrión Rocío , Villardón-Gallego Lourdes
Published: February 2016

There is solid evidence that high quality Early Childhood Education (ECE hereafter) have substantial impact on later life outcomes. A growing literature suggests that interventions that develop social competency as well as cognitive, language and academic skills in the earliest years play a role in later educational, social and economic success. Less is known about the most conducive interactions –verbal and non-verbal- underpinning such pedagogical practices in early childhood education. This article aims at reviewing the last decade’s early childhood education with a twofold objective: (a) to describe how dialogue and interaction take place in high-quality early childhood education settings; (b) to identify the effects, if any, on children’s learning and development as a result of implementing dialogue-based interventions in ECE. The studies were identified through systematic search of electronic databases and analyzed accordingly. Several types of interactions given in high quality ECE programs and its short and long-term effects are discerned in this review. 
The European Struggle to Educate and Include Roma People: A Critique of Differences in Policy and Practice in Western and Eastern EU Countries
Authors: O'Hanlon Christine
Published: February 2016

Multiculturalism is an established feature of the UK and other European States since the establishment of the Treaty of Rome in 1959. Enlargement has brought EU membership from six (1952) to twenty eight members since its foundation, and allowed free migration across its borders. However, many countries, in spite of agreements to adhere to ‘democratic’ practices, deny minority citizens their full rights, particularly in education contexts. Some recent accession EU States have education systems that are less adaptive to expected policy responsibilities. It is a more unstable aspect of Eastern Europe because of the failure of many of these countries to reduce social and educational inequalities and to establish rights for minority groups, particularly the Roma. An educational focus is used as a platform to highlight issues re the segregation, and discrimination against, Roma children in Europe, typically through the use of special education, which is not suitable for them. Europe generally, both East and West has failed to fully integrate the Roma. Often, institutional blame is placed on Roma communities, rather than situate them socially and economically due to ingrained structural inequalities. Stereotyped categories are often used to ‘label’ them. Countries with high Roma populations, four in Western and five in Eastern Europe are evaluated and compared in relation to the education of Roma children.
Oligoadenylate synthetase 1 (OAS1) expression in human breast and prostate cancer cases, and its regulation by sex steroid hormones
Authors: Maia Cláudio Jorge , Rocha Sandra Moreira , Socorro Sílvia , Schmitt Fernando , Santos Cecília Reis
Published: February 2016

Oligoadenylate synthetase 1 (OAS1) is an interferon-induced protein characterised by its capacity to catalyse the synthesis of 2ʹ-5ʹ-linked oligomers of adenosine from adenosine triphosphate (2-5A). The 2-5A binds to a latent Ribonuclease L (RNase L), which subsequently dimerises into its active form and may play an important role in the control of cell growth, differentiation and apoptosis. Previously, our research group identified OAS1 as a differentially-expressed gene in breast and prostate cancer cell lines when compared to normal cells. This study evaluates: i) the expression of OAS1 in human breast and prostate cancer specimens; and ii) the effect of sex steroid hormones in regulating the expression of OAS1 in breast (MCF-7) and prostate (LNCaP) cancer cell lines. The obtained results showed that OAS1 expression was down-regulated in human infiltrative ductal carcinoma of breast, adenocarcinoma of prostate, and benign prostate hyperplasia, both at mRNA and protein level. In addition, OAS1 expression was negatively correlated with the progression of breast and prostate cancer. With regards to the regulation of OAS1 gene, it was demonstrated that 17β-estradiol (E2) down-regulates OAS1 gene in MCF-7 cell lines, an effect that seems to be dependent on the activation of oestrogen receptor (ER). On the other hand, 5α‑dihydrotestosterone (DHT) treatment showed no effect on the expression of OAS1 in LNCaP cell lines. The lower levels of OAS1 in breast and prostate cancer cases indicated that the OAS1/RNaseL apoptotic pathway may be compromised in breast and prostate tumours. Moreover, the present findings suggested that this effect may be enhanced by oestrogen in ER-positive breast cancers.
Antibacterial Activity of the Red Algae Eucheuma cottonii Extract from Tanjung Coast, Sumenep Madura
Authors: Andriani Zulli , Fasya Ahmad Ghanaim , Hanapi Ahmad
Published: February 2016

Abstract

Red alge Euchema cottonii is one of the biological source that has benefits. The aim of this study is to determine the effectiveness of antibacterial red algae Eucheuma cottonii extract. Isolation of active compounds was performed by maceration method using methanol. The methanol extract was hydrolyzed using HCl 2 N and partitioned by ethyl acetate, chloroform, petroleum ether and n-hexane solvents. The antibacterial assessment was determined using disc diffusion method againts bacteria Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. Identification of active compound was conducted by reagents test. The results showed that the best solvent to extract algae was methanol with 20.7% rendemen. The methanol extract 4% gives the highest inhibition at concentrations was 7.85 mm; followed by n-hexane and chloroform were 1.0 and 0.6 mm. However, bath ethyl acetate and petroleum ether extract depicted no inhibition zone. The identification test showed the presence of flavonoids, triterpenoids, steroids and alkaloids in the methanol extract. The extract of n-hexane contained triterpenoids and alkaloids, while the chloroform extract contained flavonoids, triterpenoids and alkaloids.

 

Keywords:  Euchema cottonii, antibacterial, disc diffusion
Extraction, Toxicity Assay and Identification of Active Compounds of Red Algae (Eucheuma cottonii) from Sumenep Madura
Authors: Afif Sholeh , Fasya Ahmad Ghanaim , Ningsih Rachmawati
Published: February 2016

Extraction, Toxicity Assay and Identification ofActive Compounds of Red Algae Extract (Eucheuma cottonii) from Tanjung Sumenep Madura was analysed. Extraction of active compound was conducted by maceration method  using methanol as a solvent. The methanol extract was hydrolyzed with HCl 2 N. The result was partitioned using five solvents (1-butanol, ethyl acetate, chloroform, petroleum  ether and n-hexane). Toxicity level was determined by Brine Shrimp Lethality Test (BSLT). The identification of the active compound was analyzed by phytochemical test, qualitatively. The result showed that the 1-butanol is the best solvent to extract active compounds of red algae E. Cottonii in partition process. 1-Butanol fraction gives the highest activity of toxicity with LC5070,32 ppm. LC50 value for ethyl acetate, chloroform, petroleum ether and n-hexane was 143,43; 194,40; 195,28; 303,66; and 634,97 ppm, respectively. Identification of active compounds indicated that 1-butanol fraction contains steroids and alkaloids.

 

Keywords: Eucheuma cottonii, extraction, Brine Shrimp Lethality Test, phythochemical
Long‐Term Outcomes of Untreated Buccal Gingival Recessions: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Chambrone Leandro , Tatakis Dimitris N.
Published: February 2016

Background: This review aims to: 1) assess the long‐term outcomes of untreated buccal gingival recession (GR) defects and the associated reported esthetic and functional alterations; and 2) evaluate which factors influence the progression/worsening of dental and periodontal tissue conditions of untreated GR defects.

Methods: Interventional and observational studies with duration of ≥24 months reporting outcomes from adult patients with localized or multiple GR defects not treated by root coverage or gingival augmentation procedures were considered eligible for inclusion. MEDLINE and EMBASE databases were searched for articles published through July 2015. Random‐effects meta‐analyses were performed comparing baseline versus most recent follow‐up outcomes (i.e., number of patients with ≥1 GR and number of sites with GR).

Results: Of 378 potentially eligible articles, eight (reporting six studies) met inclusion criteria. Of 1,647 GR defects with baseline and follow‐up information, 78.1% experienced GR depth increase during the follow‐up period, whereas the remaining experienced decrease or no change. Moreover, there was a 79.3% increase in the number of GR defects among the patients followed (i.e., new GR defects). Pooled estimates (data from four studies) showed significantly increased odds of recession development long term, regarding either number of patients (odds ratio 2.43; P = 0.03) or number of sites with GR (odds ratio 2.16; P = 0.0005).

Conclusion: Untreated recession defects in individuals with good oral hygiene have a high probability of progressing during long‐term follow‐up.
Matching Business-Level Strategic Controls to Strategy: Impact On Control System Effectiveness
Authors: Fiegener Mark K.
Published: February 2016

This study explores the contingent relationships between strategic control, business-level strategy, and the perceived effectiveness of the strategic control system. The findings suggest that: (1) firms demonstrating Cost-leader tendencies have more effective strategic control systems when their controls are tighter (i.e., greater degree of formalization, upper management supervision, and role specialization); and (2) firms demonstrating Differentiator tendencies have more effective strategic control systems when their controls are looser.
Effect Of Board Members Gender On Corporate Social Responsiveness Orientation
Authors: Ibrahim Nabil A. , Angelidis John P.
Published: February 2016

This study examines the relationship between board members gender and their corporate social responsiveness orientation. An empirical analysis of survey data from 398 corporate directors shows that, compared to their male counterparts, female directors exhibit a stronger orientation toward the discretionary component of corporate responsibility. Male board members, in contrast to female directors, are more concerned about economic performance. Results further reveal no significant differences between the two genders with respect to both the legal and ethical dimensions.
A Study Of The Importance Of Certain Attributes To Clients Initial Selections Of Audit Firms: A Longitudinal And Stratified Approach
Authors: Hermanson Roger H. , Plunkett Linda M. , Turner Deborah H.
Published: February 2016

This study examines the importance of certain accounting firm characteristicsreputation, personnel, industry experience, and feeto the selection of audit firms by publicly-traded corporations. Client perceptions of these attributes were assessed to determine: (1) possible longitudinal changes in the relative importance of these attributes to clients selections, and (2) possible concurrent differences in the relative importance of these attributes to two different client strata-large versus small corporations. Using conjoint analysis, interval measures of the relative importance of each firm attribute were determined. The results of this study indicate that large and small corporations have very different relative preferences for characteristics of audit firms. In addition the importance attached to certain attributes of audit firms by large and small clients appears to be stable over time.
Impact Of The Repeal Of The Investment Tax Credit ON Firms Investment Decisions
Authors: Carlson Steven J. , Bathala Chenchuramaiah T.
Published: February 2016

This study investigates the relationship between the 1986 repeal of the investment tax credit (ITC) and firms capital investment rates using an ANCOVA model that includes firm size and growth rate variables as covariates. Our results demonstrate: (1) there is a significant decline in firms investment rates between the pre-Tax Reform Act (TRA) and post-TRA periods; and (2) holding the amount of ITC available to firms constant during the two time periods, firms investment rates remain relatively constant. We conclude that ITC is an important determinant in firms capital investment rates.
The Decision Making Unit In The Choice Of A Long-Term Health Care Facility
Authors: Gilbert Faye W. , Tudor R. Keith , Paolillo Joseph G. P.
Published: February 2016

As the size of the elderly market increases, so does the need to understand the decision making process for selecting long-term health care (LTHC) facilities. This study describes the membership and relative degree of influence of specific participants in the decision making unit (DMU) as well as the situational effects of time, prompt and stage of decision making on the size, composition and influence of CMU participants.
Has Advertising By CPAs Promoted A Trend Toward Commercialism?
Authors: Chesser Delton L. , Moore Carlos W. , Conway Lucian G.
Published: February 2016

Because of the emphasis many firms now give to non traditional financial consulting services some professionals feel that CPAs have shifted their emphasis from professionalism to commercialism. Since advertising is often the media used to announce the offering of these services, we conducted a national survey of AICPA members to assess whether advertising contributed to the possible commercialization of the accounting profession. The studys results indicate that CPAs overall have effectively used advertising to announce their transition to broad-based financial consultants without promoting commercialism.
Role Conflict, Role Ambiguity, Job Satisfaction And The Moderating Effect Of Job-Related Self-Esteem: A Latent Variable
Authors: Gregson Terry , Wendell John
Published: February 2016

The relationship between job-related self-esteem, role ambiguity, role conflict, and job satisfaction for a national sample (n=216) of certified public accountants (CPAs) was examined. Job-related self-esteem is concerned with the evaluation that the individual makes regarding the influence of the individuals job on how they view themselves. The Rosenberg (1965) global self-esteem scale was modified to reflect job-related aspects. Linear structural relations (LISREL) was used to examine the relationships between job-related self-esteem, role ambiguity, role conflict, and job satisfaction. Job-related self-esteem was found to not be directly related to job satisfaction with role ambiguity and role conflict were controlled for. Job-related self-esteem was found to be an independent predictor of role ambiguity and role conflict.
The Expectation Gap In The Legal System: Perception Differences Between Auditors And Judges
Authors: Lowe Jordan
Published: February 2016

The expectation gap, and its related effects on auditor legal liability, has been presumed to be caused by diverging perceptions by the auditing profession and third party litigants regarding the professions role, responsibilities, and related performance. Prior research regarding the expectation gap has focused on diverging perceptions of different groups (i.e. financial analysts, bank loan officers, small business owners, and auditors). While this research has identified an expectation gap between auditors and certain third-parties, it has neglected examining the perceptions of judicial litigants. This absence is somewhat ironic given the current auditor legal liability situation. This study fills this void by comparing judges and auditors attitudes toward the auditing profession. Results revealed a large divergence in perceptions of auditors and judges regarding their expectations of the auditing profession.
Sunk Costs, Innovation, And Spillover Effects In R&D-Intensive Industries
Authors: Gentzoglanis Anastassios
Published: February 2016

This paper establishes a theoretical relationship between the sunkness of a firms cost and its degree of innovation, as measured by the number of patents and trademarks introduced in the market. Departing from the assumption that incumbents and potential entrants are risk-averse, we demonstrate that the presence of such costs is not a barrier to entry, as it is usually considered to be, but it acts as a stimulus to R&D activities. The empirical results confirm this assertion for the sample and the period examined. In the light of these results public policies encouraging R&D activities such as tax credits, grants, etc., should be reexamined carefully.
Unanticipated Exchange Rate Risk And U.S. Imports
Authors: Sukar Abdul H.
Published: February 2016

The effect of exchange rate risk on trade is one of the more controversial issues in international trade. This paper uses cointegration and error-correction approach to investigate the relationship between unanticipated exchange rate risk and U.S. imports over the period 1974:1-1992:4. The major finding of this study is that the exchange rate risk has a significant negative impact on U.S. imports.
Measuring Service Quality For Strategic Planning And Analysis In Service Firms
Authors: Jemmasi Masoud , Strong Kelly C. , Taylor Steven A.
Published: February 2016

The following study demonstrates that service quality assessment using importance-performance analysis may be a more useful strategic management tool than the gap measures recommended by the authors of the SERVQUAL scale. An example from the health care industry highlights the utility of the proposed method for purposes of strategic decision making.
Stock Prices And Macroeconomic Data
Authors: Fitzpatrick Brian D.
Published: February 2016

This paper examined the relationship between the total return on the S&P 500 index and various macroeconomic variables. The independent variables were the growth rates of corporate earnings, G.N.P., money supply (M1), S&P dividend yield, seasonally adjusted C.P.I., U.S. T-Bills (3 months), and the U.S. treasury composite. The 1968-1987 period was researched using time lags of zero to four quarters. In addition, the total S&P 500 total return and the growth rate of corporate earnings were studied for the 1973-1987 and the 1981-1987 periods utilizing zero to one year time lags. This study has shown that for the period 1968 through 1987, there was no significant relationship (.05 level) between macroeconomic data and the total return on the S&P 500 index with one exception. The exception was dividend yield using a six month time lag. This is consistent with past research that has shown a relationship between dividend yield and total return. When the growth rate of earnings was singled out, a negative relationship was found from 1973-1987 and from 1981-1987. This is a surprising result and is inconsistent with long term studies which support a consistent and significant relationship. The results show that for these periods, it would have been a futile exercise for professional managers to study and attempt to predict future economic data. Predicting the future is an impossible task with a consistent degree of accuracy, but this study indicates that even it if could have been done from 1968-1987, that it would not have guaranteed superior stock market results. If no relationship exists, then is it cost effective not to study the variables? This study discourages a market timing investment approach.
An Analysis Of The Institutional And Individual Authorship Sources Of Articles In The Journal Of Applied Business Research: 1985-1993
Authors: Urbancic Frank R.
Published: February 2016

This study traces the development of the Journal of Applied Business Research (JABR) in terms of the institutional and individual sources of published articles. The study is based on an analysis of 478 article published in the JABR from Fall 1985 through Fall 1993. The analysis of the data provides a taxonomy of the subject areas for the articles, summary information on authorship including the impact of collaboration, and an assessment of the institutional affiliations of the contributing authors. The study finds that there has been widespread participation in the development of the JABR based on the breadth of interest from a diverse range of authorship sources such that the journal, to its credit, is not regarded as being dominated by a few prolific scholars. The results also show that the JABR has developed into a respected outlet for refereed business research as evidenced by the substantial number of contributing authors affiliated with high quality institutions.
Exploring The Relationship Between Gratitude And Economic Perceptions
Authors: Bock Dora E. , Eastman Jacqueline K. , McKay Benjamin P.
Published: February 2016

This study explores the associations between consumer gratitude and perceptions of consumer confidence and economic welfare. From a random stratified sample of adults living in the southeastern U.S., the findings reveal that a grateful outlook is positively associated with favorable perceptions of the U.S. economy, state economy, future job growth, and future income earned. Additionally, the results indicate significant differences between grateful and ungrateful individuals in terms of their perceptions of the U.S. economy, job growth, and anticipated income for the upcoming year. The results suggest that managers may want to focus on developing strong relationships with grateful customers, given that grateful customers may help firms survive tough economic times.
The Health Insurance Exchange: An Oligopolistic Market In Need Of Reform
Authors: Mondal Wali I.
Published: February 2016

Until the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act commonly known as the Affordable Care Act (ACA) was signed into law in March 2010, United States was the only industrialized rich country in the world without a universal healthcare insurance coverage. While pioneering works by Burns (1956, 1966) focused on the Social Security Act of 1935 in addressing the health insurance needs of U.S. retired population through Medicare, and later Medicaid was created by the Social Security Amendments of 1965, U.S. health insurance has remained a private, for-profit venture. The passage of ACA was one of the most contentious legislations of modern times. Soon after it was signed into law, various groups of private citizens and a number of States challenged some provisions of the ACA; however, the Supreme Court of the United States upheld its key provisions. A segment of the Congress remains opposed to the ACA on ideological ground and continues to challenge it with a variety of legal maneuvers. Notwithstanding the political or ideological arguments for or against the ACA, the objective of this paper is to analyze the competitiveness of the health insurance marketplace which opened on October 1, 2013. In doing so, the paper will address the structure of the health insurance exchange and suggest ways and means to make it more competitive.
Analysis Of Green Financial Markets
Authors: Hashmi M. Anaam
Published: February 2016

Green financial markets are still in early stages of development. There are new green venture capital funds and green stocks to satisfy needs of project developers and investors. Various governments are also subsidizing new green ventures and project developers should take full advantage of these incentives. Also, there have been attempts to quantify riskiness of various green financial products so investors can make informed decisions.
The Role Of Activity-Base Costing In The Development Of Segmented Financial Statements: An Examination
Authors: Gamble George O. , Simms John E.
Published: February 2016

The recent financial crisis has brought into question a number of the qualities and characteristics of current financial reporting practices. One of the areas in question is that of reporting segmental information in relation to “paper” gains and losses. In this paper, Activity is divided between economic and financial activities. We bring to the fore some of the historical sources of the principles on which segmental reporting is based, and then propose an alternative reporting scheme along the lines of activity-based costing. The advantages and shortcomings of the proposed system are examined and the implications of the use of the system are discussed.
Precious Metals And Retirement Portfolio Survival Rates
Authors: Hubbard Carl M. , Walz Daniel T.
Published: February 2016

Recent gains in the value of gold bullion in the presence of declines in the stock and corporate bond markets suggest that retired investors may benefit from holdings of precious metals.  Because of the comparative liquidity and economy of holding mutual fund shares, we examine the effect of an optimal allocation of precious metals funds shares on portfolio survival rates through payout periods of 15, 20, 25, 30, and 35 years using returns data from September 1988 through December 2008.  Since most of the higher withdrawal rates that are supported by precious metals funds are ill-advised, adding precious metals fund shares to a conventional stocks and bonds portfolio does not appear to benefit most retired investors.  The findings do support greater allocations to bonds rather than stocks.
The Bottom Of The Pyramid: Key Roles For Businesses
Authors: Habib Mohsin , Zurawicki Leon
Published: February 2016

The poor at the Bottom of the Pyramid (BOP) has traditionally been viewed as an unattractive segment for businesses. The lack of interest has led to various proposals to increase company participation. At the same time there is also a renewed focus on how to reduce or eliminate poverty. Companies are asked to seriously consider both objectives: making a profitable operation and eradicating poverty. For businesses, the poor can be viewed as consumers, suppliers, and employees.  Each of these areas presents different challenges which are discussed. Finally, recommendations are presented to address the issues and to make the companies more effective.
Firm Performance Following Auditor Changes For Audit Fee Savings
Authors: Chan Kam C. , Farrell Barbara , Healy Patricia , Lee Picheng
Published: February 2016

This study examines stock and earnings performance subsequent to auditor changes by firms specifically for audit fees savings without any other apparent regulatory or disclosure issues. Results show that there is mild evidence of positive stock return and earnings performance after changing auditors. There is also no significant difference in company performance among different types of auditor changes when looking at auditor changes among and between Big 4 and non-Big 4 auditors. Finally, we find that the positive firm performance is mainly among auditor changes made before 2003.
 
Consolidation In The U.S. Banking Industry Since Riegle-Neal
Authors: Heiney Joseph N.
Published: February 2016

The Riegle-Neal Banking and Branching Efficiency Act of 1994 eliminated previous restrictions on interstate banking and branching in the U.S. banking industry. It was expected that this deregulation would accelerate the consolidation already underway among U.S. banks. Previous research examined the initial impact of Riegle-Neal on the number of banking institutions and branches by analyzing data from immediately before the act was passed in 1994 to immediately after it became fully effective in 1997. That research found an increase in the rate of consolidation among U.S. banks, with an increase in the number of mergers, an increase in the number of newly chartered banks, a decrease in the number of bank failures, and an increase in the number of new bank branches.  This paper considers whether these immediate effects of Riegle-Neal have persisted into the longer term or have moderated in the years since the act became fully effective. The analysis of data since 1998 presented here indicates that the initial effects of the act have moderated. The rate at which the number of banking institutions is decreasing has slowed. The rate of merger and acquisition activity has decreased. Bank failures are very low. There has been a slow down in the increase of new bank branches.
 
Gravidez Gemelar com uma Mola Hidatiforme Completa e um Co-Gémeo Viável
Authors: Godinho Ana Beatriz , Martins Diana , Araújo Cláudia , Melo Maria Antonieta , Mendes Graça Luís
Published: February 2016

A existência de uma gravidez gemelar bicoriónica com uma mola hidatiforme completa e um co-gémeo viável é um evento raro, sendo o diagnóstico habitualmente realizado no segundo trimestre. Pode associar-se a tirotoxicose, pré-eclâmpsia, hemorragia vaginal, doença persistente do trofoblasto e morte fetal. Os autores descrevem o caso de uma grávida com hemorragia do primeiro trimestre. As imagens ecográficas foram interpretadas como uma gravidez gemelar bicoriónica com um embrião vivo e outra placenta com imagem de descolamento. Às 16 semanas visualizou-se um feto vivo com placenta posterior e uma massa vacuolada anterior, vascularizada. Perante a hipótese de doença do trofoblasto o casal optou pela interrupção da gravidez. O exame anatomo-patológico confirmou o diagnóstico. Perante a raridade desta entidade clínica, é necessário um elevado índice de suspeição para estabelecer oseu diagnóstico ecográfico. Apesar de estarem descritos casos com um bom desfecho materno e neonatal, a decisão de continuação da gravidez deve ser tomada pelos progenitores.
Avaliação dos Resultados do Tratamento Antiangiogénico na Neovascularização Coroideia Associada à Miopia Patológica
Authors: Carvalho Beatriz , Freitas-Costa Paulo , Pinheiro-Costa João , Falcão Manuel , Carneiro Ângela , Falcão-Reis Fernando
Published: February 2016

Introdução: A neovascularização coroideia associada à miopia patológica é uma das principais causas de perda de visão central e irreversível em indivíduos jovens. Os objetivos deste estudo são avaliar os resultados a longo prazo do tratamento antiangiogénico, com ranibizumab e/ou bevacizumab, na neovascularização coroideia associada à miopia patológica e caraterizar os fatores preditivos dos resultados funcionais e anatómicos obtidos.Material e Métodos: Avaliámos os resultados de 84 olhos de 81 doentes com neovascularização coroideia miópica, dos quais 84 (100%) completaram 12 meses de seguimento, 67 (79,8%) 24 meses de seguimento, 54 (64,3%) 36 meses de seguimento, 29 (34,5%) 48 meses de seguimento e 15 (16,7%) 60 meses de seguimento. Procedemos à recolha de dados relativos à melhor acuidade visual corrigida em escala ETDRS, espessura foveal na tomografia de coerência óptica e caraterísticas da angiografia fluoresceínica, inicial e após tratamento.Resultados: As melhorias na melhor acuidade visual corrigida e na espessura foveal foram significativas para todos os tempos de seguimento (p < 0,05). A média da melhor acuidade visual corrigida inicial era de 43,7 ± 20,1 letras e da espessura foveal inicial de 304,8 ± 127,9μm. As médias da melhor acuidade visual corrigida foram de 55,6 ± 18,5, 52,1 ± 22,3, 52,1 ± 22,6, 50,3 ± 23,8 e 47,8 ± 24,5 para os 12, 24, 36, 48 e 60 meses de tratamento, respetivamente. As médias das espessuras foveais foram de 209,7 ± 86,2, 190,6 ± 76,1, 174,7 ± 60,6, 189,8 ± 96,7 e 159,4 ± 73,3 para os mesmos tempos de seguimento. Apenas a melhor acuidade visual corrigida inicial foi preditiva de melhores resultados na melhor acuidade visual corrigida final (p < 0,001).Discussão/Conclusão: As injecções intravítreas de anti-VEGF em doentes com neovascularização coroideia miópica cursam com uma melhoria funcional e anatómica significativa e sustentada no tempo. Ensaios clínicos randomizados com follow-up mais extenso são necessários para comprovar a eficácia sustentada destes agentes.
Declínio Cognitivo de Etiologia Medicamentosa
Authors: Caldeira Luís , Varanda Sara , Machado Álvaro , Ferreira Carla , Carneiro Gisela
Published: February 2016

Nos doentes idosos há um risco elevado de medicação inapropriada e de efeitos adversos da polimedicação. Doente do sexo feminino, 68 anos, previamente autónoma, recorre ao Serviço de Urgência por suspeita de Acidente Vascular Cerebral. Segundo o marido, nos seis meses prévios à admissão, apresentou progressiva dependência funcional e períodos de desorientação. Por esse motivo, havia recorrido a consultas de diferentes especialidades, encontrando-se polimedicada, sendo impossível perceber a posologia administrada. Apresentava-se desatenta, desorientada, apráxica, com mioclonias e marcha atáxica. Durante o internamento, após suspensão de toda a medicação crónica, revelou melhoria gradual, apresentando, à data de alta, exame neurológico completamente normal. A iatrogenia medicamentosa como causa reversível para quadros demenciais deve ser equacionada. Todos os doentes, particularmente os idosos e seus cuidadores, deverão ser adequadamente informados acerca dos medicamentos prescritos e da respetiva posologia. A utilização do modelo biopsicossocial poderá evitar a polimedicação inapropriada e a iatrogenia.
Geografias da Diabetes Mellitus em Portugal: Como as Condições do Contexto Influenciam o Risco de Morrer
Authors: Santana Paula , Costa Cláudia , Loureiro Adriana , Raposo João , Boavida José Manuel
Published: February 2016

Introdução: A Diabetes Mellitus é um problema de saúde pública em crescimento em todo o mundo e também em Portugal. Pretendemos identificar a evolução do padrão geográfico desta causa de morte e a associação com a privação sociomaterial, em Portugal.Material e Métodos: Estudo ecológico transversal dos óbitos por Diabetes Mellitus ocorridos nos municípios portugueses em três períodos (1989-1993, 1999-2003 e 2006-2010). Aplicámos um modelo hierárquico bayesiano, de modo a obter a Razão Padronizada de Mortalidade Suavizada e o Risco Relativo, de mortalidade por diabetes associado à privação sociomaterial.Resultados: Observámos os valores da Razão Padronizada de Mortalidade Suavizada mais elevados, em 1989-1993, nos municípios urbanos do litoral (80% dos municípios com Razão Padronizada de Mortalidade Suavizada ≥ 161, sendo 60% urbanos); em 2006-2010 verificámos o oposto, destacando-se, pelos valores de Razão Padronizada de Mortalidade Suavizada elevados, as áreas rurais localizadas no interior sul do país (76,9% dos municípios com Razão Padronizada de Mortalidade Suavizada ≥ 161 sendo 69,2% rurais), principalmente no Alentejo. O Risco Relativo de mortalidade por Diabetes Mellitus aumenta com o aumento da vulnerabilidade associada às condições sociais e económicas da área de residência, principalmente nos dois últimos períodos (Risco Relativo: 1,00; IC95%: 0,98-1,02).Discussão: A Diabetes Mellitus apresenta um padrão geográfico marcado pela assimetria litoral-interior e urbano-rural, que tem vindo a alterar-se ao longo dos últimos vinte anos, verificando-se uma transição geográfica: 48% da população reside em municípios em que a Razão Padronizada de Mortalidade Suavizada aumentou nos últimos vinte anos, com destaque para as áreas rurais do interior de Portugal.Conclusão: As Razões Padronizadas de Mortalidade Suavizada mais elevadas verificam-se, actualmente, em municípios rurais, com índice de privação sociomaterial mais elevado.Palavras-chave: Demografia; Diabetes Mellitus/epidemiologia; Diabetes Mellitus/mortalidade; Factores Socioeconómicos; Portugal.
Relação entre o Tratamento com Metformina e o Desenvolvimento de Hiperlactacidemia no Serviço de Urgência
Authors: Guelho Daniela , Paiva Isabel , Carrilho Francisco
Published: February 2016

Introdução: Em diabéticos tipo 2 sob metformina o desenvolvimento de hiperlactacidemia ou mesmo acidose láctica parece decorrer de um evento precipitante agudo. Este estudo objetiva avaliar a prevalência e risco relativo de hiperlactacidemia em diabéticos observados no Serviço de Urgência, os fatores preditores da concentração de lactatos e a influência da lactacidémia no prognóstico.Material e Métodos: Estudo observacional transversal incluindo 138 diabéticos tipo 2, dos quais 66 sob metformina, e 83 doentes não diabéticos atendidos entre junho e outubro de 2012. Variáveis estudadas: idade, sexo, motivo de urgência, pressão arterial, hábitos farmacológicos, antecedentes, estudo analítico (bioquímica e gasometria arterial com doseamento de lactatos) e destino após observação. Análise estatística realizada com SPSS 21.0®.Resultados: A concentração de lactatos e proporção de hiperlactacidemia foram significativamente superiores nos diabéticos (2,1 ± 0,1 mmol/L vs. 1,1 ± 0,1mmol/L, p < 0,001 e 39,1% vs. 3,6%, p < 0,001, respetivamente); particularmente naqueles sob metformina comparativamente aos restantes diabéticos (2,7 ± 0,2 mmol/L vs. 1,6 ± 0,1 mmol/L, p < 0,001 e 56,9 % vs. 23,3 %, p < 0,001, respetivamente). Os diabéticos sob metformina contabilizaram uma probabilidade de hiperlactacidemia 25x superior (OR = 25,10, p < 0,05). A creatinina representou o único fator preditor independente da lactacidemia (B = 1,33; p < 0,05). Os doentes com hiperlactacidemia apresentaram probabilidade 4,4x superior de serem internados ou falecerem (OR = 4,37, p < 0,05). E, quando internados, contabilizaram tempo de internamento (21,66 ± 5,86 dias vs 13,68 ± 5,33dias, p < 0,001) e número de óbitos superiores (12,5% (n = 4) vs 4,3% (n = 2), p < 0,05).Conclusões: Demonstrou-se um risco acrescido de hiperlactacidemia em diabéticos tipo 2, particularmente naqueles sob metformina. A creatinina sérica representou o único fator preditor independente da concentração de lactatos. A presença de hiperlactacidemia condicionou um pior prognóstico.