bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predictors of Language Gains Among School-Age Children With Language Impairment in the Public Schools
Authors: Justice Laura M. , Jiang Hui , Logan Jessica A. , Schmitt Mary Beth
Published: May 2017

Purpose

This study aimed to identify child-level characteristics that predict gains in language skills for children with language impairment who were receiving therapy within the public schools. The therapy provided represented business-as-usual speech/language treatment provided by speech-language pathologists in the public schools.

Method

The sample included 272 kindergartners and first-graders with language impairment who participated in a larger study titled “Speech-Therapy Experiences in the Public Schools.” Multilevel regression analyses were applied to examine the extent to which select child-level characteristics, including age, nonverbal cognition, memory, phonological awareness, vocabulary, behavior problems, and self-regulation, predicted children's language gains over an academic year. Pratt indices were computed to establish the relative importance of the predictors of interest.

Results

Phonological awareness and vocabulary skill related to greater gains in language skills, and together they accounted for nearly 70% of the explained variance, or 10% of total variance at child level. Externalizing behavior, nonverbal cognition, and age were also potentially important predictors of language gains.

Conclusions

This study significantly advances our understanding of the characteristics of children that may contribute to their language gains while receiving therapy in the public schools. Researchers can explore how these characteristics may serve to moderate treatment outcomes, whereas clinicians can assess how these characteristics may factor into understanding treatment responses.
Photoelastic force measurements in granular materials
Authors: Daniels Karen E. , Kollmer Jonathan E. , Puckett James G.
Published: May 2017

Photoelastic techniques are used to make both qualitative and quantitative measurements of the forces within idealized granular materials. The method is based on placing a birefringent granular material between a pair of polarizing filters, so that each region of the material rotates the polarization of light according to the amount of local stress. In this review paper, we summarize the past work using the technique, describe the optics underlying the technique, and illustrate how it can be used to quantitatively determine the vector contact forces between particles in a 2D granular system. We provide a description of software resources available to perform this task, as well as key techniques and resources for building an experimental apparatus.
Perspective: Advanced particle imaging
Authors: Chandler David W. , Houston Paul L. , Parker David H.
Published: May 2017

Since the first ion imaging experiment [D. W. Chandler and P. L. Houston, J. Chem. Phys. 87, 1445–1447 (1987)], demonstrating the capability of collecting an image of the photofragments from a unimolecular dissociation event and analyzing that image to obtain the three-dimensional velocity distribution of the fragments, the efficacy and breadth of application of the ion imaging technique have continued to improve and grow. With the addition of velocity mapping, ion/electron centroiding, and slice imaging techniques, the versatility and velocity resolution have been unmatched. Recent improvements in molecular beam, laser, sensor, and computer technology are allowing even more advanced particle imaging experiments, and eventually we can expect multi-mass imaging with co-variance and full coincidence capability on a single shot basis with repetition rates in the kilohertz range. This progress should further enable “complete” experiments—the holy grail of molecular dynamics—where all quantum numbers of reactants and products of a bimolecular scattering event are fully determined and even under our control.
Predicting reaction coordinates in energy landscapes with diffusion anisotropy
Authors: Tiwary Pratyush , Berne B. J.
Published: May 2017

We consider a range of model potentials with metastable states undergoing molecular dynamics coupled to a thermal bath in the high friction regime and consider how the optimal reaction coordinate depends on the diffusion anisotropy. For this we use our recently proposed method “spectral gap optimization of order parameters (SGOOP)” [P. Tiwary and B. J. Berne, Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U. S. A. 113, 2839 (2016)]. We show how available information about dynamical observables in addition to static information can be incorporated into SGOOP, which can then be used to accurately determine the “best” reaction coordinate for arbitrary anisotropies. We compare our results with transmission coefficient calculations and published benchmarks wherever applicable or available, respectively.
Role of internal stresses in the formation of magnetic structure and magnetic properties of iron-based glass coated microwires
Authors: Orlova N. N. , Gornakov V. S. , Aronin A. S.
Published: May 2017

Based on the experimental data of the magnetic hysteresis and magneto-optical images of the magnetic structure during magnetization process, in this work, we have carried out estimation of the value of radial mechanical stresses in the surface region of the metal core of microwire. The composition of the sample microwire was Fe73.9B13.2Si10.9C2 with a positive magnetostriction constant. The magneto-optical images of the domain structure during magnetization and the hysteresis loops have been used to define the magnetic characteristics of the sample (the saturation magnetization Ms and the saturation field Hs). We have determined that there is a relationship between the orientation of the magnetic moments of the ring-shaped surface domains and the internal cylindrical domains. On the basis of the experimental data, we have estimated the value of radial mechanical stress of the microwire in the surface region of the metal core where the ring-shaped domains are located.
Charge transfer transitions in optical spectra of NicMg1-cO oxides
Authors: Churmanov V. N. , Sokolov V. I. , Pustovarov V. A. , Gruzdev N. B. , Uimin M. A. , Byzov I. V. , Druzhinin A. V. , Korolyov A. V. , Kim G. A. , Zatsepin A. F. , Kuznetsova J. A.
Published: May 2017

Radiative recombination with charge transfer was observed in NicMg1−cO (c = 0.008) oxides over the 8–300 K temperature range. This recombination occurs as a result of strong hybridization of the Ni2+ ion 3d-states and the band states. The charge transfer radiation excitation spectrum shows vibrational LO repeats of two exciton lines having charge transfer energy intervals of about 35 meV. The NiO nanocrystal absorption spectrum shows two weak peaks with energies of 3.510 and 3.543 eV, which are highly dependent on temperature. They are interpreted as charge transfer excitons at the edge of NiO fundamental absorption. The distance between the charge transfer exciton lines in the NicMg1−cO oxide spectra are caused by spin-orbit splitting of the valence band peak that was formed by the p-states of the oxygen ion.
Optimization of grid energy using demand and source side management for DC microgrid
Authors: Chauhan K. , Chauhan R. K.
Published: May 2017

This paper presents an optimization of grid energy using a supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) system for DC microgrids including distributed energy resources and residential building. The proposed system is mainly focused on distributed energy resources (DERs) for source side management (SSM) and demand side management (DSM). A SSM agent performs cheaper (less emission) source selection based on the microgrid demand. The real time scheduling updates the power settings of DERs and generates the electricity prices of the microgrid, whereas a DSM agent performs load shifting in real time, based on microgrid prices, level of stored energy in the appliance, and latest start time. The incorporation of SCADA provides the common communication for all components of the microgrid to interconnect with the control room via wireless smart sensors to update the power setting. Furthermore, the use of SSM maximizes the use of DERs and optimizes the power exchange between utility and the microgrid subjected to the system and DER constraints. The simulation results show a reduction in the peak demand and electricity bill of the building. Moreover, the obtained results show that the size of the energy storage and the power losses with the adaptive load are small as compared to the non-adaptive load.
Indigenous forest management.
Authors: Bulkan J.
Published: May 2017

Variants of Indigenous forest management reflect distinct historical and political-economic contexts. Indigenous forest management was largely unrecorded in the colonial period and, in the present, can range from industrial to ecosystem-based forest management, autonomous management and rentier practices. Evidence of Indigenous forest management has assumed political importance in those nation-states that require historical evidence of past land use and occupancy as the basis for negotiation of Indigenous-titled lands. The forms of tenure that include communal-titled lands, recognized or unrecognized claimed customary lands or time-limited licences influence the variations of Indigenous Forestry. The relative power held by constituency groups influence governance although the increasingly normative influence of guidelines such as Access and Benefit Sharing and Free, Prior and Informed Consent may lead to improvements across the board in all forms of forestry. Indigenous participation in voluntary, independent third-party certification schemes and the invocation of the Public Trust and Indigenous Trust doctrines by some Indigenous Peoples may also lead to improved governance of Indigenous Territories and resources by national and Indigenous governments.
Roadmap to a One Health agenda 2030.
Authors: Queenan K. , Garnier J. , Nielsen L. R. , Buttigieg S. , Meneghi D. de , Holmberg M. , Zinsstag J. , Rüegg S. , Häsler B. , Kock R.
Published: May 2017

The current fragmented framework of health governance for humans, animals and environment, together with the conventional linear approach to solving current health problems, is failing to meet today's health challenges and is proving unsustainable. Advances in healthcare depend increasingly on intensive interventions, technological developments and expensive pharmaceuticals. The disconnect grows between human health, animal health and environmental and ecosystems health. Human development gains have come with often unrecognized negative externalities affecting ecosystems. Deterioration in biodiversity and ecosystem services threatens to reverse the health gains of the last century. A paradigm shift is urgently required to de-sectoralize human, animal, plant and ecosystem health and to take a more integrated approach to health, One Health (OH). The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) offer a framework and unique opportunity for this. Through analysing individual SDGs, we argue the feasibility of an OH approach towards achieving them. Feasibility assessments and outcome evaluations are often constrained by sectoral politics within a national framework, historic possession of expertise, as well as tried and tested metrics. OH calls for a better understanding, acceptance and use of a broader and transdisciplinary set of assessment metrics. Key objectives of OH are presented: that humans reconnect with our natural past and accept our place in, and dependence on our planet's ecosystems; and that we recognize our dependence on ecosystem services, the impact of our development thereon and accept our responsibility towards future generations to address this. Several action points are proposed to meet these objectives.
TRPM8 inhibits endothelial cell migration via a non-channel function by trapping the small GTPase Rap1
Authors: Genova Tullio , Grolez Guillaume P. , Camillo Chiara , Bernardini Michela , Bokhobza Alexandre , Richard Elodie , Scianna Marco , Lemonnier Loic , Valdembri Donatella , Munaron Luca , Philips Mark R. , Mattot Virginie , Serini Guido , Prevarskaya Natalia , Gkika Dimitra , Pla Alessandra Fiorio
Published: May 2017

Endothelial cell adhesion and migration are critical steps of the angiogenic process, whose dysfunction is associated with tumor growth and metastasis. The TRPM8 channel has recently been proposed to play a protective role in prostate cancer by impairing cell motility. However, the mechanisms by which it could influence vascular behavior are unknown. Here, we reveal a novel non-channel function for TRPM8 that unexpectedly acts as a Rap1 GTPase inhibitor, thereby inhibiting endothelial cell motility, independently of pore function. TRPM8 retains Rap1 intracellularly through direct protein–protein interaction, thus preventing its cytoplasm–plasma membrane trafficking. In turn, this mechanism impairs the activation of a major inside-out signaling pathway that triggers the conformational activation of integrin and, consequently, cell adhesion, migration, in vitro endothelial tube formation, and spheroid sprouting. Our results bring to light a novel, pore-independent molecular mechanism by which endogenous TRPM8 expression inhibits Rap1 GTPase and thus plays a critical role in the behavior of vascular endothelial cells by inhibiting migration.
Rb family proteins enforce the homeostasis of quiescent hematopoietic stem cells by repressing Socs3 expression
Authors: Kim Eunsun , Cheng Ying , Bolton-Gillespie Elisabeth , Cai Xiongwei , Ma Connie , Tarangelo Amy , Le Linh , Jambhekar Madhumita , Raman Pichai , Hayer Katharina E. , Wertheim Gerald , Speck Nancy A. , Tong Wei , Viatour Patrick
Published: May 2017

Prolonged exit from quiescence by hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) progressively impairs their homeostasis in the bone marrow through an unidentified mechanism. We show that Rb proteins, which are major enforcers of quiescence, maintain HSC homeostasis by positively regulating thrombopoietin (Tpo)-mediated Jak2 signaling. Rb family protein inactivation triggers the progressive E2f-mediated transactivation of Socs3, a potent inhibitor of Jak2 signaling, in cycling HSCs. Aberrant activation of Socs3 impairs Tpo signaling and leads to impaired HSC homeostasis. Therefore, Rb proteins act as a central hub of quiescence and homeostasis by coordinating the regulation of both cell cycle and Jak2 signaling in HSCs.
Functional outcome after pectoralis muscle repair
Authors: Merlin Gabriel , Koenig Scott , Gross Jordan , Edgar Cory
Published: May 2017

Background:

The increased incidence of pectoralis major rupture in younger patients is associated with increased weightlifting in recent years, specifically the bench press. The aim of this study was to evaluate long-term outcomes in the largest series of pectoralis major repairs to date.

Methods:

In a single center, retrospective observational study, 68 patients underwent pectoralis major muscle repair between August 2000 and December 2010. Chart review and a subjective patient survey of outcomes were used to retrospectively assess pain, strength, stamina, overall performance, and cosmesis before and after injury, and before and after surgery.

Results:

Subjective questionnaires were sent to 68 patients and responses were obtained from 34 patients. On a scale of 0-6, 0 being the least desirable outcome and 6 being the most desirable outcome, the averages for pain, strength, stamina, overall performance, and cosmesis were 4.84, 4.87, 4.68, 4.45, 3.65 (compared with 1.89 after injury), respectively. The data demonstrated that pectoralis major muscle repair decreases pain and increases strength, stamina, overall performance, and cosmesis after surgery compared to directly after injury. Patients were able to bench press an average of 280 lbs before injury and 162 lbs after recovery from surgery. Complications included seven infections, which required return to the operating room.

Conclusions:

After complete pectoralis major rupture, it is advantageous to have a pectoralis major muscle repair by an experienced surgeon to improve comfort, strength, stamina, and overall performance.
Time to return to running after tibial stress fracture in female Division I collegiate track and field
Authors: Jamieson Marissa , Schroeder Allison , Campbell Jason , Seigel Courtney , Everson Sonsecharae , Miller Timothy L.
Published: May 2017

Background:

We examined the relationship between the Kaeding-Miller (K-M) stress fracture classification system with time to return to running or practice in female track and field athletes diagnosed with tibial stress fracture.

Methods:

All female athletes with tibial stress injuries who competed for a Division I university from 2011-2014 were identified. Their charts were reviewed retrospectively to collect demographic variables, medical history, training variables, injury history, and nutritional or dietary risk factors. The K-M classification system was used to grade all injuries and to compare the time to return to practice. Body mass index (BMI) was evaluated independently with time to recovery.

Results:

Twenty-four tibial stress injuries were identified in 18 female track and field athletes on the same Division I collegiate team over a 3-year period. The average time to return to running was 13.7 wk (SD 5.02). Athletes with a K-M grade of V had an average time to return to running of 17 wk compared with 11.7 and 13.7 in Grade II and III, respectively. This difference did not reach significance (P=0.534), but there was a positive relationship between K-M grade and time to recovery (coefficient=0.785). There was no statistically significant relationship between BMI and time to return to sport (P=0.767), but there was an inverse relationship between BMI and time to clinical healing (coefficient=−0.191).

Conclusions:

Data suggest that higher K-M grade injuries correlate with longer time to recovery, but larger studies are needed to determine if this relationship is significant.
Anterior-Inferior Plating Results in Fewer Secondary Interventions Compared to Superior Plating for Acute Displaced Midshaft Clavicle Fractures
Authors: Serrano Rafael , Borade Amrut , Mir Hassan , Shah Anjan , Watson David , Infante Anthony , Frankle Mark A. , Mighell Mark A. , Sagi H. Claude , Horwitz Daniel S. , Sanders Roy W.
Published: May 2017

Objectives:

To determine whether a difference in plate position for fixation of acute, displaced, midshaft clavicle fractures would affect the rate of secondary intervention.

Design:

Retrospective Comparative Study.

Setting:

Two academic Level 1 Regional Trauma Centers.

Patients:

Five hundred ten patients treated surgically for an acutely displaced midshaft clavicle fracture between 2000 and 2013 were identified and reviewed retrospectively at a minimum of 24 months follow-up (F/U). Fractures were divided into 2 cohorts, according to plate position: Anterior-Inferior (AI) or Superior (S). Exclusion criteria included age <16 years, incomplete data records, and loss to F/U. Group analysis included demographics (age, sex, body mass index), fracture characteristics (mechanism of injury, open or closed), hand dominance, ipsilateral injuries, time between injury to surgery, time to radiographic union, length of F/U, and frequency of secondary procedures.

Intervention:

Patients were treated either with AI or S clavicle plating at the treating surgeon's discretion.

Main Outcome Measures:

Rate and reason for secondary intervention.

Statistical Analysis:

Fisher exact test, t test. and odds ratio were used for statistical analysis.

Results:

Final analysis included 252 fractures/251 patients. One hundred eighteen (47%) were in group AI; 134 (53%) were in group S. No differences in demographics, fracture characteristics, time to surgery, time to union, or length of F/U existed between groups. Seven patients/7 fractures (5.9%) in Group AI underwent a secondary surgery whereas 30 patients/30 fractures (22.3%) in group S required a secondary surgery. An additional intervention secondary to superior plate placement was highly statistically significant (P < 0.001). Furthermore, because 80% of these subsequent interventions were a result of plate irritation with patient discomfort, the odds ratio for a second procedure was 5 times greater in those fractures treated with a superior plate.

Conclusions:

This comparative analysis indicates that AI plating of midshaft clavicle fractures seems to lessen clinical irritation and results in significantly fewer secondary interventions. Considering patient satisfaction and a reduced financial burden to the health care system, we recommend routine AI plate application when open reduction internal fixation of the clavicle is indicated.

Level of Evidence:

Therapeutic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Making Sense of Implant “Profile” in Breast Augmentation
Authors: Wan Dinah , Rohrich Rod J.
Published: May 2017

The increasing variety of breast implants has led to their classification into “profile” types to guide implant cataloguing and selection. Implant “profile” describes the overall silhouette of the implant. It represents a permutation of all 3 dimensions of the implant: base diameter, projection, and volume. Implant “profile” is not the same as implant projection. Implant projection is a quantifiable linear measurement of the anterior–posterior dimension of the implant, whereas implant “profile” is a vendor-driven assessment that currently lacks universal standardization. Until “profile” assessments are standardized across vendors, it behooves us to be cognizant of their limitations as primary variables used to guide implant selection.
A Minimally Invasive Stand-Alone Cox-Maze Procedure is as Effective as Median Sternotomy Approach
Authors: Schill Matthew R. , Sinn Laurie A. , Greenberg Jason W. , Henn Matthew C. , Lancaster Timothy S. , Schuessler Richard B. , Maniar Hersh S. , Damiano Ralph J.
Published: May 2017

Objective

The Cox-Maze IV procedure has been shown to be an effective treatment for atrial fibrillation when performed concomitantly with other operations either via median sternotomy or right minithoracotomy. Few studies have compared these approaches in patients with lone atrial fibrillation. This study examined outcomes with sternotomy versus minithoracotomy in stand-alone Cox-Maze IV procedures at our institution.

Methods

Between 2002 and 2015, 195 patients underwent stand-alone biatrial Cox-Maze IV. Minithoracotomy was used in 75 patients, sternotomy in 120. Freedom from atrial tachyarrhythmias was ascertained using electrocardiography, Holter, or pacemaker interrogation at 3 to 60 months. Predictors of recurrence were determined using logistic regression.

Results

Of 23 preoperative variables, the only differences between groups were that minithoracotomy patients had a higher rate of New York Heart Association 3/4 symptoms and a lower rate of previous stroke. Minithoracotomy and sternotomy patients had similar atrial fibrillation duration and type. Minithoracotomy patients had a smaller left atrial diameter (4.5 vs 4.8 cm, P = 0.03). More minithoracotomy patients received a box lesion (73/75 vs 100/120, P = 0.002). Minithoracotomy patients had a shorter hospital stay (7 vs 8 days, P = 0.009) and a similar rate of major complications (3/75 (4%) vs 7/120 (6%), P = 0.74). There were no differences in mortality or freedom from atrial tachyarrhythmias. Predictors of atrial fibrillation recurrence included a preoperative pacemaker, omission of the left atrial roof line, and New York Heart Association 3/4 symptoms.

Conclusions

Stand-alone Cox-Maze IV via minithoracotomy was as effective as via sternotomy with a shorter hospital stay. A minimally invasive approach is our procedure of choice.
Are We Missing a Vulnerable Population in Early Intervention?
Authors: Blasco Patricia M. , Guy Sybille , Saxton Sage N. , Duvall Susanne W.
Published: May 2017

Infants with low birth weight (LBW ≤ 2,500 g) are at high risk for developmental delays, including cognitive impairments. Retrospective studies have shown that these children often have learning and/or behavioral difficulties at school age. Early evaluation and enrollment in early intervention (EI) programs may reduce the impact of these difficulties; however, many children who would benefit from such programs may not receive EI services. This study provides information on 279 children born LBW and includes information on developmental capability and EI enrollment. Results indicate that children born LBW in EI services had lower overall developmental standard scores than those not in EI. However, it is concerning that almost an equal number of children across all categories of birth weight are not in services.
Evaluation of a DNA Extraction and Purification Protocol Using Archived Formalin-fixed Paraffin-embedded Tissues for BRAF Mutations Analysis in Papillary Thyroid Microcarcinomas
Authors: Nechifor-Boilă Adela , Loghin Andrada , Descotes Françoise , Decaussin-Petrucci Myriam , Borda Angela
Published: May 2017

The isolation of good quality genomic DNA from formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissues is challenging, especially in cases of small tissue specimens. The aim of our study was to evaluate a DNA extraction protocol using formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissues in our laboratory and apply this method to a series of papillary thyroid microcarcinomas (PTMCs). A total of 25 PTMCs and 3 papillary thyroid carcinoma control cases were included in the study. We assessed a DNA extraction protocol on the basis of a precipitation method (MasterPure DNA purification kit, Epicentre), according to the manufacturer’s instructions. All PTMCs were subject to real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification targeting the BRAF gene and a housekeeping gene (GAPDH). BRAF gene mutations were then assessed by high-resolution melting analysis and confirmed by sequencing of the PCR products. Using this extraction method, we produced good yields of DNA (mean concentration, 147.4±77.8 ng/µL), in addition to high levels of purity (mean A260/A280 ratio: 1.63±0.1). We successfully assessed the BRAF mutation status in 24 cases (16 BRAF-negative; 8 BRAF
V600E positive), although 1 case revealed an inconclusive pattern following high-resolution melting analysis and sequencing of the PCR products. We observed no differences in the tumor size (P=0.693), storage period of the tumor block (P=0.282), DNA concentration (P=0.243), DNA purity (P=0.458), Cp
GAPDH
(P=0.173), or Cp
BRAF
(P=0.217) values between the BRAF-mutated and nonmutated group of PTMCs. Our findings demonstrate the importance of a reliable, reproducible DNA extraction technique for efficient PCR amplification, uniformly applied to all cases in this study, regardless of the BRAF mutation status.
Reconstructing the demographic history of Atlantic Salmon (Salmo salar) across its distribution range using Approximate Bayesian Computations
Authors: Rougemont Quentin , Bernatchez Louis
Published: May 2017

Understanding the dual roles of demographic and selective processes in the buildup of population divergence is one of the most challenging tasks in evolutionary biology. In the Northern hemisphere in particular, species genetic makeup has been largely influenced by severe climatic oscillations of the Quaternary Period. Here, we investigated the demographic history of Atlantic Salmon across the entire species range using 2035 anadromous individuals from 77 sampling sites from North America and Eurasia genotyped at 4,656 SNPs. By combining results from admixture graphs, geogenetic maps and an approximate Bayesian computation framework, we validate previous hypotheses pertaining to secondary contact between European and Northern American populations, but also demonstrate that European populations from different glacial refugia have been exchanging alleles in contemporary times. We further identify the major sources of admixture from the southern range of North America to more northern populations along with a strong signal of secondary gene flow between genetic regional groups. We hypothesize that these patterns reflects the spatial redistribution of ancestral variation across the entire American range. Results also point to a role for linked selection in the form of background selection and or positive hitchhiking. Altogether, differential introgression and linked selective effects likely played an underappreciated role in shaping the genomic landscape of species in the Northern hemisphere Therefore we conclude that such heterogeneity among loci should be systematically integrated into demographic inferences of the divergence process, even between incompletely reproductively isolated populations.
Increasing sustainable tourism through social entrepreneurship
Authors: de Lange Deborah , Dodds Rachel
Published: May 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the link between social entrepreneurship and sustainable tourism and to examine the Canadian context in this regard.

Design/methodology/approach

The methodology entails a case study approach that includes a thorough review of the related literature and of any existing Canadian sources of hospitality and tourism social entrepreneurship/intrapreneurship projects to determine the state of the Canadian industry with respect to sustainability.

Findings

Findings show that there are limited showcased hospitality and tourism social entrepreneurship projects in Canada. Two main assumptions related to the Canadian context can be drawn from this search: (1) There is a lack of hospitality and tourism social entrepreneurship projects and/or, (2) hospitality and tourism social entrepreneurship projects and/or businesses are not recognized and/or there is a lack of awareness of them.

Research limitations/implications

This study assessed the situation in Canada and although it was comprehensive under conditions of limited data availability, it cannot speak to social entrepreneurship in sustainable hospitality and tourism globally, which is a future research opportunity.

Practical implications

The design of a national incentive program would encourage industry sustainability through tax breaks. This voluntary system would require that firms provide standardized annual reports with their tax filings so that reliable industry data could be collected for analysis and understanding of the sustainability of the industry. Participating firms would be distinguished on a public list.

Originality/value

This research has theorized on the connection of social entrepreneurship to sustainable hospitality and tourism such that social entrepreneurship drives sustainable industry growth. This is also the first study of its kind to explore social entrepreneurship’s potential contribution to the sustainability of this industry.
Balancing transactional and transformational leadership
Authors: Baškarada Saša , Watson Jamie , Cromarty Jason
Published: May 2017

Purpose

This paper aims to explore how situational variables jointly affect the choice of leadership style.

Design/methodology/approach

This qualitative study is based on semi-structured interviews conducted with 11 senior leaders in the Australian Defence, including with the Chief of Defence Force.

Findings

The paper identifies four organizational factors (human capital, performance, time orientation and risk appetite) and two environmental factors (risk and stability) that are considered to have an effect on leader’s choice of transactional versus transformational styles. Furthermore, organizational human capital and leader’s training and experience are identified as prerequisites of leadership ambidexterity.

Originality/value

The findings explain how the choice of leadership style is contingent on internal and external factors, identifies several new contributing factors and explains how such factors may jointly affect the choice of leadership style.
Achieving consensus devoid of complicity: adopting the Delphi technique
Authors: Ogbeifun Edoghogho , Mbohwa Charles , Pretorius Jan-Harm C.
Published: May 2017

Purpose

There are latent fears that in a Delphi exercise, the opinions of participants might be impaired due to the proximity of other participants. However, the thoughtful selection of participants and effective communication during the process can guarantee the independence of the participants’ opinions. The paper aims to discuss these issues.

Design/methodology/approach

The single site case study method was adopted and the participants for the Delphi exercise were chosen from the strategic and tactical levels of leadership. The professional, positional experience and responsibilities of the participants guaranteed the quality of their opinions.

Findings

Although some of the facilities management participants are from the same division, the data collected demonstrate the opinions of independent minds, thus guaranteeing that consensus was achieved without complicity.

Originality/value

The research shows that it is possible to achieve consensus of opinion in a Delphi exercise without complicity, even when the participants know each other. This can be achieved through the painstaking selection of appropriate participants, the skills of the research coordinator and transparent communication between the rounds and in the final report.
Prevalence and clinical correlates of insomnia in adults with attention‐deficit hyperactivity disorder
Authors: Brevik E. J. , Lundervold A. J. , Halmøy A. , Posserud M.‐B. , Instanes J. T. , Bjorvatn B. , Haavik J.
Published: May 2017

Objective

To investigate the prevalence of insomnia in adults with Attention‐deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and its association with clinical subtypes, current ADHD symptoms, and stimulant treatment.

Method

We obtained diagnostic information, symptom rating scales and treatment history from clinically ascertained adult ADHD patients diagnosed according to DSM‐IV criteria (n = 268, mean age 38.1 years) and randomly selected population controls (n = 202, mean age 36.5 years). The Bergen Insomnia Scale (BIS) was used to measure insomnia. ADHD symptom domains were self‐rated using the Adult ADHD Self‐Rating Scale.

Results

Insomnia was far more frequent among adults with ADHD (66.8%) than in the population controls (28.8%) (P < 0.001). Insomnia was more common in adults with the combined subtype than in those with the inattentive subtype (79.7% and 55.6%, respectively) (P = 0.003). For self‐reported current ADHD symptoms, inattention was strongly correlated to insomnia. Patients currently using stimulant treatment for ADHD reported a lower total insomnia score compared to patients without medication (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Insomnia was highly prevalent among adults with ADHD. The lower insomnia score in patients on current stimulant treatment suggests that stimulant treatment is not associated with worsening of insomnia symptoms in adult ADHD patients.
The impact of normative perceptions on alcohol consumption in military veterans
Authors: Krieger Heather , Pedersen Eric R. , Neighbors Clayton
Published: May 2017

Background and aims

Perceptions of both descriptive norms (prevalence of drinking) and injunctive norms (others’ approval of drinking) relate to alcohol consumption, but mechanisms for these associations have received little attention, especially in military samples. This study tested the direct and indirect associations between perceived descriptive and injunctive norms on drinking through personal attitudes (i.e. personal approval) in a veteran sample.

Design

Data were collected as part of a longitudinal randomized controlled alcohol intervention study. The study involved two time‐points: baseline/intervention (time 1) and 1‐month follow‐up (time 2).

Setting

A national sample of veterans was recruited from Facebook to participate in an online study between June and October 2015.

Participants

Data included responses of 621 adult military veterans (age 18–34; 83% male).

Measures

Respondents reported on their weekly alcohol consumption (primary outcome), perceptions of typical drinking and approval by other same‐gender veterans. Covariates included gender, intervention condition and combat experience.

Findings

Regression results found no significant effects of perceived descriptive or injunctive norms on time 2 drinking when accounting for the effects of personal attitudes, time 1 drinking and covariates. However, mediation analyses found support for personal attitudes as a mediator of the relationship between perceived descriptive norms and time 2 drinking [indirect effect = 0.003, standard deviation (SD) = 0.001, P = 0.001] and between perceived injunctive norms and time 2 drinking (indirect effect = 0.004, SE = 0.001, P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Attitudes to drinking appear to mediate the association between descriptive and injunctions norms about alcohol and subsequent level of alcohol consumption in US military personnel.
The Branching Pattern of the Brachiocephalic Trunk in the Donkey (Equus asinus)
Authors: Akbari G. , Asadiahranjani B. , Goodarzi N. , Shokrollahi S.
Published: May 2017

Donkeys are a member of the horse family (Equidae) and share a common ancestor. However, in morphological terms, donkeys and horses are regarded as two separate subgenus. Given variations in the branching pattern of the brachiocephalic trunk (BCT) in different species of animals and the use of donkeys in anatomy courses at colleges of veterinary medicine, we conducted this study in order to investigate the branching patterns of BCT and to describe detailed morphological information regarding donkeys. Seventeen mature donkeys were examined following euthanasia by exsanguination from the common carotid artery under general anaesthesia. Thirteen donkeys were embalmed and injected with coloured latex from BCT origin for better visualization of vessels. Four other donkeys were freshly studied without the embalming procedure. In all cases, the BCT was the only branch of the aortic arch and branched into the left subclavian (LSb) artery, the right costocervical trunk, the right subclavian (RSb) artery and the bicarotid trunk. The main branching pattern of the RSb was the costocervical trunk, the vertebral artery, the internal thoracic artery and the superficial cervical artery. The deep cervical artery branched from the costocervical trunk. The major branching pattern of the LSb was the vertebral artery, the internal thoracic artery and the superficial cervical artery. In donkeys, the external thoracic artery branches from the internal thoracic artery. Results obtained from this study indicate that BCT branching in donkeys has some similarities and differences as compared to that in horses and in the Caspian miniature horse.
Hemodynamic Impact of the C‐Pulse Cardiac Support Device: A One‐Dimensional Arterial Model Study
Authors: Campos Arias Daimé , Londono Francisco , Rodríguez Moliner Tania , Georgakopoulos Dimitrios , Stergiopulos Nikos , Segers Patrick
Published: May 2017

The C‐Pulse is a novel extra‐aortic counter‐pulsation device to unload the heart in patients with heart failure. Its impact on overall hemodynamics, however, is not fully understood. In this study, the function of the C‐Pulse heart assist system is implemented in a one‐dimensional (1‐D) model of the arterial tree, and central and peripheral pressure and flow waveforms with the C‐Pulse turned on and off were simulated. The results were studied using wave intensity analysis and compared with in vivo data measured non‐invasively in three patients with heart failure and with invasive data measured in a large animal (pig). In all cases the activation of the C‐Pulse was discernible by the presence of a diastolic augmentation in the pressure and flow waveforms. Activation of the device initiates a forward traveling compression wave, whereas a forward traveling expansion wave is associated to the device relaxation, with waves exerting an action in the coronary and the carotid vascular beds. We also found that the stiffness of the arterial tree is an important determinant of action of the device. In settings with reduced arterial compliance, the same level of aortic compression demands higher values of external pressure, leading to stronger hemodynamic effects and enhanced perfusion. We conclude that the 1‐D model may be used as an efficient tool for predicting the hemodynamic impact of the C‐Pulse system in the entire arterial tree, complementing in vivo observations.
Significant decreases in blood propofol concentrations during adrenalectomy for phaeochromocytoma
Authors: Watanabe Tatsunori , Hiraoka Haruhiko , Araki Takuya , Nagano Daisuke , Aomori Tohru , Nakamura Tomonori , Yamamoto Koujirou , Baba Hiroshi
Published: May 2017

Aim

The kinetics of propofol are influenced by cardiac output. The aim of this study was to examine changes in blood propofol concentrations during phaeochromocytoma surgery using target‐controlled infusion (TCI) anaesthesia with propofol.

Methods

This is a prospective observational study. Ten patients with phaeochromocytoma who underwent unilateral adrenalectomy were included. Cardiac output was measured using an arterial pressure‐based cardiac output analysis method. The target blood propofol concentrations were adjusted to maintain an approximate bispectral index (BIS) value of 40 before initiating surgery. The settings remained constant during surgery. Blood samples for propofol concentrations were collected from the radial artery at seven time points: two before tumour manipulation (T1, 2), two during tumour manipulation (T3, 4), and three after tumour vein ligation (T4–7). BIS values, the arterial pressure cardiac index (APCI) and haemodynamic parameters were measured at the same time points as the blood samples. The prop‐ratio was calculated by dividing blood propofol concentrations by target concentrations of TCI.

Results

APCI increased during tumour manipulation and after tumour vein ligation. The prop‐ratio was reduced significantly by approximately 40% and showed a significant negative correlation with APCI. BIS values increased significantly and showed a significant negative correlation with the prop‐ratio.

Conclusion

The increased APCI during tumour manipulation and after tumour vein ligation was associated with markedly reduced blood propofol concentrations. These results reveal that significant decreases in the anaesthetic effect may be observed in patients undergoing phaeochromocytoma surgery even if TCI anaesthesia is used with propofol.
Estimating the effect of immortal‐time bias in urological research: a case example of testosterone‐replacement therapy
Authors: Wallis Christopher J.D. , Saskin Refik , Narod Steven A. , Law Calvin , Kulkarni Girish S. , Seth Arun , Nam Robert K.
Published: May 2017

Objective

To quantify the effect of immortal‐time bias in an observational study examining the effect of cumulative testosterone exposure on mortality.

Patients and Methods

We used a population‐based matched cohort study of men aged ≥66 years, newly treated with testosterone‐replacement therapy (TRT), and matched‐controls from 2007 to 2012 in Ontario, Canada to quantify the effects of immortal‐time bias. We used generalised estimating equations to determine the association between cumulative TRT exposure and mortality. Results produced by models using time‐fixed and time‐varying exposures were compared. Further, we undertook a systematic review of PubMed to identify studies addressing immortal‐time bias or time‐varying exposures in the urological literature and qualitatively summated these.

Results

Among 10 311 TRT‐exposed men and 28 029 controls, the use of a time‐varying exposure resulted in the attenuation of treatment effects compared with an analysis that did not account for immortal‐time bias. While both analyses showed a decreased risk of death for patients in the highest tertile of TRT exposure, the effect was overestimated when using a time‐fixed analysis (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] 0.56, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.52–0.61) when compared to a time‐varying analysis (aHR 0.67, 95% CI: 0.62–0.73). Of the 1 241 studies employing survival analysis identified in the literature, nine manuscripts met criteria for inclusion. Of these, five used a time‐varying analytical method. Each of these was a large, population‐based retrospective cohort study assessing potential harms of pharmacological agents.

Conclusions

Where exposures vary over time, a time‐varying exposure is necessary to draw meaningful conclusions. Failure to use a time‐varying analysis will result in overestimation of a beneficial effect. However, time‐varying exposures are uncommonly utilised among manuscripts published in prominent urological journals.
The anaesthetized rabbit with acute atrioventricular block provides a new model for detecting drug‐induced Torsade de Pointes
Authors: Hagiwara Mihoko , Shibuta Seiji , Takada Kazuhiro , Kambayashi Ryuichi , Nakajo Misako , Aimoto Megumi , Nagasawa Yoshinobu , Takahara Akira
Published: May 2017

Background and Purpose

Several rabbit proarrhythmia models have been developed using genetic or pharmacological methods to suppress the slow component of delayed rectifier K+ currents in the ventricle, leading to reduction of the repolarization reserve. Here we have characterized a novel rabbit in vivo proarrhythmia model with severe bradycardia caused by acute atrioventricular block (AVB).

Experimental Approach

Bradycardia was induced in isoflurane‐anaesthetized rabbits by inducing AVB with catheter ablation, and the ventricle was electrically driven at 60 beats min−1 throughout the experiment except when extrasystoles appeared. We assessed the effects of two antiarrhythmics, two quinolone antibiotics and one antipsychotic drug, which were chosen as positive drugs (dofetilide, sparfloxacin and haloperidol) and negative drugs (amiodarone and moxifloxacin) for induction of Torsades de Pointes (TdP).

Key Results

In our model, TdP arrhythmias appeared with high reproducibility after i.v. dofetilide (10–100 μg·kg−1) in five out of six rabbits, sparfloxacin (30 mg·kg−1) in three out of six rabbits and haloperidol (0.3–3 mg·kg−1) in two out of six rabbits. The lethal arrhythmias repeatedly appeared and were accompanied with prolongation of the QT interval and early afterdepolarization‐like phenomena. Neither amiodarone (0.3–10 mg·kg−1, n = 6) nor moxifloxacin (3–30 mg·kg−1, n = 6) induced such arrhythmias, even when QT intervals were prolonged.

Conclusions and Implications

These results suggest that our model of the unremodelled and bradycardic heart of the anaesthetized rabbit is a useful test system for the detection of drug‐induced TdP arrhythmias.
Current state of a dual behaviour of antimicrobial peptides—Therapeutic agents and promising delivery vectors
Authors: Piotrowska Urszula , Sobczak Marcin , Oledzka Ewa
Published: May 2017

Micro‐organism resistance is an important challenge in modern medicine due to the global uncontrolled use of antibiotics. Natural and synthetic antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) symbolize a new family of antibiotics, which have stimulated research and clinical interest as new therapeutic options for infections. They represent one of the most promising antimicrobial substances, due to their broad spectrum of biological activity, against bacteria, fungi, protozoa, viruses, yeast and even tumour cells. Besides, being antimicrobial, AMPs have been shown to bind and neutralize bacterial endotoxins, as well as possess immunomodulatory, anti‐inflammatory, wound‐healing, angiogenic and antitumour properties. In contrast to conventional antibiotics, which have very defined and specific molecular targets, host cationic peptides show varying, complex and very rapid mechanisms of actions that make it difficult to form an effective antimicrobial defence. Importantly, AMPs display their antimicrobial activity at micromolar concentrations or less. To do this, many peptide‐based drugs are commercially available for the treatment of numerous diseases, such as hepatitis C, myeloma, skin infections and diabetes. Herein, we present an overview of the general mechanism of AMPs action, along with recent developments regarding carriers of AMPs and their potential applications in medical fields.