bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Central nervous system regulation of hepatic lipid and lipoprotein metabolism
Authors: Taher Jennifer , Farr Sarah , Adeli Khosrow
Published: November 2016

Purpose of review

Hepatic lipid and lipoprotein metabolism is an important determinant of fasting dyslipidemia and the development of fatty liver disease. Although endocrine factors like insulin have known effects on hepatic lipid homeostasis, emerging evidence also supports a regulatory role for the central nervous system (CNS) and neuronal networks. This review summarizes evidence implicating a bidirectional liver–brain axis in maintaining metabolic lipid homeostasis, and discusses clinical implications in insulin-resistant states.

Recent findings

The liver utilizes sympathetic and parasympathetic afferent and efferent fibers to communicate with key regulatory centers in the brain including the hypothalamus. Hypothalamic anorexigenic and orexigenic peptides signal to the liver via neuronal networks to modulate lipid content and VLDL production. In addition, peripheral hormones such as insulin, leptin, and glucagon-like-peptide-1 exert control over hepatic lipid by acting directly within the CNS or via peripheral nerves. Central regulation of lipid metabolism in other organs including white and brown adipose tissue may also contribute to hepatic lipid content indirectly via free fatty acid release and changes in lipoprotein clearance.

The CNS communicates with the liver in a bidirectional manner to regulate hepatic lipid metabolism and lipoprotein production. Impairments in these pathways may contribute to dyslipidemia and hepatic steatosis in insulin-resistant states.

Video abstract:
http://links.lww.com/COL/A13
Noncirrhotic Portal Fibrosis in Pediatric Population
Authors: Sood Vikrant , Lal Bikrant B. , Khanna Rajeev , Rawat Dinesh , Bihari Chhagan , Alam Seema
Published: November 2016

Objectives:

Noncirrhotic portal fibrosis (NCPF) has been classically described as a disease of young to middle age with limited literature regarding its occurrence, onset, or clinical presentation in children. We hereby present a series of 19 patients diagnosed and managed as NCPF in pediatric age group.

Methods:

A retrospective review of all the patients presenting to the pediatric hepatology department (age <18 years) and diagnosed as NCPF was done and data were evaluated.

Results:

A total of 19 patients were diagnosed as NCPF with median age at onset of symptoms and diagnosis as 10 years and 13.8 years respectively. Majority presented with left upper quadrant discomfort or mass. Laboratory parameters showed hypersplenism in majority with preserved liver synthetic functions. Median values for hepatic venous pressure gradient and liver stiffness measurement were 13.5 mmHg and 10.6 kPa, respectively. Classical hepatic histopathological features seen were maintained lobular architecture, atretic portal tracts, approximation of portal‐portal and portal‐central areas, and aberrant peripheral portal channels. During follow‐up, majority of the patients did not show disease progression.

Conclusions:

NCPF is not an uncommon entity in pediatric population with age of onset in early second decade. Hepatic histopathology must be used to exclude cirrhosis and to confirm the diagnosis. Hepatic venous pressure gradient and liver stiffness measurement values, in some cases, may overlap with those in patients with cirrhosis and may not be diagnostic in isolation. Any patient presenting with evidence of portal hypertension with preserved hepatic functions, irrespective of the age, should be evaluated for possible NCPF.
Meeting People “Where They Are”
Authors: Harkey Jane , Sortedahl Charlotte , Crook Michelle M. , Sminkey Patrice V.
Published: November 2016

Purpose:

The propose of this discussion is to explore the role of the case manager to empower and motivate clients, especially those who appear “stuck” or resistant to change. Drawing upon the experiences of case managers across many different practice settings, the article addresses how case managers can tap into the individual's underlying and sometimes deep-seated desires in order to foster buy-in for making even small steps toward achieving their health goals. The article also addresses how motivational interviewing can be an effective tool used by case managers to uncover blocks and barriers that prevent clients from making changes in their health or lifestyle habits.

Primary Practice Settings:

This discussion applies to case management practices and work settings across the full continuum of health care.

Implications for Case Management Practice:

The implication for case managers is deeper understanding of the importance of motivation to help clients make positive steps toward achieving their health goals. This understanding is especially important in advocating for clients who appear to be unmotivated or ambivalent, but who are actually “stuck” in engrained behaviors and habits because of a variety of factors, including past failures. Without judgment and by establishing rapport, case managers can tap into clients' desires, to help them make incremental progress toward their health goals.
Antiretroviral Therapy Initiation Is Not Associated With Risky Sexual Behavior Among Heterosexual Human Immunodeficiency Virus–Infected Persons in Serodiscordant Partnerships
Authors: Mujugira Andrew , Celum Connie , Ngure Kenneth , Thomas Katherine K. , Katabira Elly , Baeten Jared M.
Published: November 2016

Background

Few prospective studies have assessed whether antiretroviral therapy (ART) use is associated with changes in sexual risk behavior of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)–infected persons in known HIV-serodiscordant partnerships.

Methods

We conducted a longitudinal analysis of HIV-infected persons with known uninfected partners enrolled in the Partners Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis Study in Kenya and Uganda. Antiretroviral therapy use and self-reported sexual behavior were ascertained every 3 months. We assessed the effect of ART on sexual risk behaviors using zero-inflated negative binomial regression. Primary outcomes were condomless vaginal sex acts, pregnancy incidence and new sexually transmitted infection diagnoses.

Results

We followed 1817 HIV-infected persons (58% women) for 864 person-years before ART initiation and 771 person-years after ART. Median CD4 and plasma viral load at ART initiation were 277 cells/μL and 4.18 log10 copies/mL. Antiretroviral therapy use was associated with a significant decrease in condomless vaginal sex acts with HIV-uninfected partners (0.65 vs 0.39 per month; rate ratio, 0.64; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.55–0.75; P < 0.001), but not condomless vaginal sex acts with nonprimary partners (1.30 vs 1.04 per month; rate ratio, 0.94; 95% CI, 0.94–1.20; P = 0.62). Pregnancy incidence was lower after ART (13.2 vs 8.4 per 100 person-years; HR, 0.71; 95% CI, 0.60–0.84; P < 0.001). Incident sexually transmitted infection diagnoses were similar (odds ratio, 1.05; 95% CI, 0.86–1.29; P = 0.63).

Conclusions

Substantial risk compensation did not occur after ART initiation among East African HIV-infected persons with known HIV-uninfected partners. These data inform modelling studies of ART for HIV prevention by suggesting that risky sexual behavior did not appear to offset decreased HIV infectiousness in this key population.
Utilization of the Cepheid Xpert® CT/NG Sample Adequacy Control to Determine the Influence of the Urethral Swab on Cellular Content in Post-Swab versus Pre-Swab Urine
Authors: Jordan Stephen J. , Van Der Pol Barbara , Hook Edward W.
Published: November 2016

Chlamydia trachomatis/Neisseria gonorrhoeae assay performance in males is typically determined using post-swab urine, though pre-swab urine is used in practice. We collected swabs and urine from men and used the Cepheid Xpert® CT/NG sample adequacy control to determine the effect of swab collection on urine cellular content. No difference was observed.
Quantitative Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction for the Diagnosis of Mycoplasma genitalium Infection in South African Men With and Without Symptoms of Urethritis
Authors: le Roux Marie Cecilia , Hoosen Anwar Ahmed
Published: November 2016

Background

This study was done to diagnose Mycoplasma genitalium infection based on bacterial load in urine specimens from symptomatic and asymptomatic men.

Methods

Urine specimens from 94 men with visible urethral discharge, 206 with burning on micturition and 75 without symptoms presenting to a family practitioner were tested for M. genitalium as well as Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Chlamydia trachomatis, Trichomonas vaginalis by transcription-mediated amplification assays. A quantitative polymerase chain reaction assay was used to determine the bacterial load for all specimens in which M. genitalium was the only organism detected.

Results

Among the 375 specimens collected, M. genitalium was detected in 59 (15.7%) men (both symptomatic and asymptomatic) using the transcription-mediated amplification assay, and in 45 (12.0%) of the total population, it was the only pathogen detected. One or more pathogens were detected in 129 (43%) of the symptomatic men, with N. gonorrhoeae in 50 (16.7%); C. trachomatis in 37 (12.3%) and T. vaginalis present in 24 (8.0%) patients. Among the 17 patients where mixed infections were detected, M. genitalium with N. gonorrhoeae was the most common (11/17; 64.7%). Patients with visible urethral discharge had significantly higher M. genitalium concentrations than those with burning on micturition. The median M. genitalium load in symptomatic men was significantly higher than that in asymptomatic men.

Conclusions

This study confirms the high prevalence of M. genitalium among men with urethritis in South Africa and demonstrates that there is a strong association with M. genitalium bacterial load and clinical urethritis. As the number of organisms increased, the severity of the symptoms increased, an indication of the role that the organism plays in disease progression.
Social-bond strength influences vocally mediated recruitment to mobbing
Authors: Kern Julie M. , Radford Andrew N.
Published: November 2016

Strong social bonds form between individuals in many group-living species, and these relationships can have important fitness benefits. When responding to vocalizations produced by groupmates, receivers are expected to adjust their behaviour depending on the nature of the bond they share with the signaller. Here we investigate whether the strength of the signaller–receiver social bond affects response to calls that attract others to help mob a predator. Using field-based playback experiments on a habituated population of wild dwarf mongooses (
Helogale parvula
), we first demonstrate that a particular vocalization given on detecting predatory snakes does act as a recruitment call; receivers were more likely to look, approach and engage in mobbing behaviour than in response to control close calls. We then show that individuals respond more strongly to these recruitment calls if they are from groupmates with whom they are more strongly bonded (those with whom they preferentially groom and forage). Our study, therefore, provides novel evidence about the anti-predator benefits of close bonds within social groups.
Evidence for an optimal level of connectivity for establishment and colonization
Authors: Morel-Journel Thibaut , Piponiot Camille , Vercken Elodie , Mailleret Ludovic
Published: November 2016

Dispersal is usually associated with the spread of invasive species, but it also has two opposing effects, one decreasing and the other increasing the probability of establishment. Indeed, dispersal both slows population growth at the site of introduction and increases the likelihood of surrounding habitat being colonized. The connectivity of the introduction site is likely to affect dispersal, and, thus, establishment, according to the dispersal behaviour of individuals. Using individual-based models and microcosm experiments on minute wasps, we demonstrated the existence of a hump-shaped relationship between connectivity and establishment in situations in which individual dispersal resembled a diffusion process. These results suggest that there is an optimal level of connectivity for the establishment of introduced populations locally at the site of introduction, and regionally over the whole landscape.
Pseudomonas canadensis sp. nov., a biological control agent isolated from a field plot under long-term mineral fertilization
Authors: Tambong James T. , Xu Renlin , Bromfield Eden S. P.
Published: November 2016

The bacterial strain 2-92T, isolated from a field plot under long-term (>40 years) mineral fertilization, exhibited in vitro antagonistic properties against fungal pathogens. A polyphasic approach was undertaken to verify its taxonomic status. Strain 2-92T was Gram-reaction-negative, aerobic, non-spore-forming, motile by one or more flagella, and oxidase-, catalase- and urease-positive. The optimal growth temperature of strain 2-92T was 30 °C. 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis demonstrated that the strain is related to species of the genus

Pseudomonas

. Phylogenetic analysis of six housekeeping genes (dna
A, gyr
B, rec
A, rec
F, rpo
B and rpo
D) revealed that strain 2-92T clustered as a distinct and well separated lineage with Pseudomonas

simiae

as the most closely related species. Polar lipid and fatty acid compositions corroborated the taxonomic position of strain 2-92T in the genus

Pseudomonas

. Phenotypic characteristics from carbon utilization tests could be used to differentiate strain 2-92T from closely related species of the genus

Pseudomonas

. DNA–DNA hybridization values (wet laboratory and genome-based) and average nucleotide identity data confirmed that this strain represents a novel species. On the basis of phenotypic and genotypic characteristics, it is concluded that this strain represents a separate novel species for which the name Pseudomonas canadensis sp. nov. is proposed, with type strain 2-92T (=LMG 28499T=DOAB 798T). The DNA G+C content is 60.30 mol%.
Sequence-based analysis of the genus Ruminococcus resolves its phylogeny and reveals strong host association
Authors: La Reau Alex J. , Meier-Kolthoff Jan P. , Suen Garret
Published: November 2016

It has become increasingly clear that the composition of mammalian gut microbial communities is substantially diet driven. These microbiota form intricate mutualisms with their hosts, which have profound implications on overall health. For example, many gut microbes are involved in the conversion of host-ingested dietary polysaccharides into host-usable nutrients. One group of important gut microbial symbionts are bacteria in the genus Ruminococcus. Originally isolated from the bovine rumen, ruminococci have been found in numerous mammalian hosts, including other ruminants, and non-ruminants such as horses, pigs and humans. All ruminococci require fermentable carbohydrates for growth, and their substrate preferences appear to be based on the diet of their particular host. Most ruminococci that have been studied are those capable of degrading cellulose, much less is known about non-cellulolytic non-ruminant-associated species, and even less is known about the environmental distribution of ruminococci as a whole. Here, we capitalized on the wealth of publicly available 16S rRNA gene sequences, genomes and large-scale microbiota studies to both resolve the phylogenetic placement of described species in the genus Ruminococcus, and further demonstrate that this genus has largely unexplored diversity and a staggering host distribution. We present evidence that ruminococci are predominantly associated with herbivores and omnivores, and our data supports the hypothesis that very few ruminococci are found consistently in non-host-associated environments. This study not only helps to resolve the phylogeny of this important genus, but also provides a framework for understanding its distribution in natural systems.
Intra- and inter-specific variations of gene expression levels in yeast are largely neutral
Authors: Yang Jian-Rong , Maclean Calum , Park Chungoo , Zhao Huabin , Zhang Jianzhi
Published: November 2016

It is commonly, although not universally, accepted that most intra- and inter-specific genome sequence variations are more or less neutral, whereas a large fraction of organism-level phenotypic variations are adaptive. Gene expression levels are molecular phenotypes that bridge the gap between genotypes and corresponding organism-level phenotypes. Yet, it is unknown whether natural variations in gene expression levels are mostly neutral or adaptive. Here we address this fundamental question by genome-wide profiling and comparison of gene expression levels in nine yeast strains belonging to three closely related Saccharomyces species and originating from five different ecological environments. We find that the transcriptome-based clustering of the nine strains approximates the genome sequence-based phylogeny irrespective of their ecological environments. Remarkably, only ∼0.5% of genes exhibit similar expression levels among strains from a common ecological environment, no greater than that among strains with comparable phylogenetic relationships but different environments. These and other observations strongly suggest that most intra- and inter-specific variations in yeast gene expression levels result from the accumulation of random mutations rather than environmental adaptations. This finding has profound implications for understanding the driving force of gene expression evolution, genetic basis of phenotypic adaptation, and general role of stochasticity in evolution.
The evolutionary history of bears is shaped by gene flow across species
Authors: Kumar Vikas , Lammers Fritjof , Bidon Tobias , Pfenninger Markus , Kolter Lydia , Nilsson Maria A. , Janke Axel
Published: November 2016

Bears are iconic mammals with a complex evolutionary history. Natural bear hybrids and studies of few nuclear genes indicate that gene flow among bears may be more common than expected and not limited to the closely related polar and brown bears. Here we present a genome analysis of the bear family with representatives of all living species. Phylogenomic analyses of 869 mega base pairs divided into 18,621 genome fragments yielded a well-resolved coalescent species tree despite signals for extensive gene flow across species. However, genome analyses using three different statistical methods show that gene flow is not limited to closely related species pairs. Strong ancestral gene flow between the Asiatic black bear and the ancestor to polar, brown and American black bear explains numerous uncertainties in reconstructing the bear phylogeny. Gene flow across the bear clade may be mediated by intermediate species such as the geographically wide-spread brown bears leading to massive amounts of phylogenetic conflict. Genome-scale analyses lead to a more complete understanding of complex evolutionary processes. The increasing evidence for extensive inter-specific gene flow, found also in other animal species, necessitates shifting the attention from speciation processes achieving genome-wide reproductive isolation to the selective processes that maintain species divergence in the face of gene flow.
Structural covariance networks across the lifespan, from 6-94 years of age
Authors: DuPre Elizabeth , Spreng R. Nathan
Published: November 2016

Structural covariance examines covariation of grey matter morphology between brain regions and across individuals. Despite significant interest in the influence of age on structural covariance patterns, no study to date has provided a complete lifespan perspective—bridging childhood with early, middle, and late adulthood—on the development of structural covariance networks. Here, we investigate the lifespan trajectories of structural covariance in six canonical neurocognitive networks: default, dorsal attention, frontoparietal control, somatomotor, ventral attention, and visual. By combining data from five open access data sources, we examine the structural covariance trajectories of these networks from 6-94 years of age in a sample of 1580 participants. Using partial least squares, we show that structural covariance patterns across the lifespan exhibit two significant, age-dependent trends. The first trend is a stable pattern whose integrity declines over the lifespan. The second trend is an inverted-U that differentiates young adulthood from other age groups. Hub regions, including posterior cingulate cortex and anterior insula, appear particularly influential in the expression of this second age-dependent trend. Overall, our results suggest that structural covariance provides a reliable definition of neurocognitive networks across the lifespan and reveal both shared and network-specific trajectories.
Spatial organization, grouping strategies and cyclic dominance in asymmetric predator-prey games
Authors: Cazaubiel Annette , Lütz Alessandra F. , Arenzon Jeferson J.
Published: November 2016

Predators may attack isolated or grouped preys in a cooperative, collective way. Whether a gregarious behavior is advantageous to each species depends on several conditions and game theory is a useful tool to deal with such a problem. We here extend the Lett-Auger-Gaillard model [Theor. Pop. Biol.65, 263 (2004)] to spatially distributed groups and compare the resulting behavior with their mean field predictions for the coevolving densities of predator and prey strategies. We show that the coexistence phase in which both strategies for each group are present is stable because of an effective, cyclic dominance behavior similar to a well studied generalizations of the Rock-Paper-Scissors game with four species (without neutral pairs), a further example of how ubiquitous this mechanism is. In addition, inside the coexistence phase (but interestingly, only for finite size systems) there is a realization of the survival of the weakest effect that is triggered by a percolation crossover.
1s2p resonant inelastic X-ray scattering combined dipole and quadrupole analysis method
Authors: Bagger Alexander , Haarman Ties , Puig Molina Anna , Moses Poul George , Ishii Hirofumi , Hiraoka Nozomu , Wu Yu-Han , Tsuei Ku-Ding , Chorkendorff Ib , De Groot Frank
Published: November 2016

In this study an analysis strategy towards using the resonant inelastic X-ray scattering (RIXS) technique more effectively compared with X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) is presented. In particular, the question of when RIXS brings extra information compared with XAS is addressed. To answer this question the RIXS plane is analysed using two models: (i) an exciton model and (ii) a continuum model. The continuum model describes the dipole pre-edge excitations while the exciton model describes the quadrupole excitations. Applying our approach to the experimental 1s2p RIXS planes of VO2 and TiO2, it is shown that only in the case of quadrupole excitations being present is additional information gained by RIXS compared with XAS. Combining this knowledge with methods to calculate the dipole contribution in XAS measurements gives scientists the opportunity to plan more effective experiments.
Crystal structure of [Ag(NH3)3]2[Ag(NH3)2]2[SnF6]F2, a compound showing argentophilic interactions
Authors: Kraus Florian , Fichtl Matthias , Baer Sebastian
Published: November 2016

Bis[triamminesilver(I)] bis[diamminesilver(I)] hexafluoridostannate(IV) difluoride, [Ag(NH3)3]2[Ag(NH3)2]2[SnF6]F2, was obtained in the form of colourless crystals from the reaction of CsAgSnF7in anhydrous ammonia. Two different ammine complexes of silver(I) are present in the structure,i.e.a linear diammine and a T-shaped triammine complex. The ammine silver(I) complexes show Ag...Ag distances in the range of argentophilic interactions. In the crystal, several N—H...F hydrogen bonds are present between the complex cations and the SbF6−and F−anions, leading to the formation of a three-dimensional network.
The greening of organizational culture: revisited fifteen years later
Authors: Porter Tracy H. , Gallagher Vickie Coleman , Lawong Diane
Published: November 2016

Purpose

Organizations have viewed sustainability as a societal problem and unrelated to business. To recognize sustainability as an organizational issue requires companies to deal with the challenge of transforming into environmentally sustainable enterprises. This requires institutions to align mission statements with values. The purpose of this paper is to replicate previous research in sustainability and the cultural facets which impact the process.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative case study method was used to analyze 25 organizations within the US Midwest with various contexts to determine how their respective cultures impacted their change initiatives. Specifically, the authors spoke to sustainability change agents with regard to their leadership and culture, and the factors that are conducive to (or barriers to) implementing sustainability initiatives.

Findings

The original study demonstrated the presence of seven contextual conditions which are important in the process of imbedding sustainability within the institution. This research found the same dimensions to be present; however, they manifested differently 15 years later.

Practical implications

The original research offered a somewhat dark picture of the sustainability change initiatives within organizations. The current study however; offers a much more positive perspective which demonstrates organizations appear to have progressed with regard to sustainability.

Originality/value

This is a replication study whereby we discovered similar themes as to the nature of contextual factors that can hinder or advance sustainability initiatives; however, the findings 15 years later show a marked difference in the current state of affairs and the ability to implement sustainability initiatives.
How to use C-OAR-SE to design optimal standard measures
Authors: Rossiter John R.
Published: November 2016

Purpose

This paper aims to extend Rossiter’s C-OAR-SE method of measure design (IJRM, 2002, p. 19, p. 4, pp. 305-335; EJM, 2011, p. 45, p. 11, p. 12, pp. 1561-1588) by proposing five distinct construct models for designing optimally content-valid multiple-item and single-item measures.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper begins by dismissing convergent validation, the core procedure in Nunnally’s (1978) and Churchill’s (1979) psychometric method of measure design which allows alternative measures of the same construct. The method of dismissal is the mathematical demonstration that an alternative measure, no matter how highly its scores converge with those from the original measure, will inevitably produce different findings. The only solution to this knowledge-threatening problem is to agree on an optimal measure of each of our major constructs and to use only that measure in all future research, as is standard practice in the physical sciences. The paper concludes by proposing an extension of Rossiter’s C-OAR-SE method to design optimal standard measures of judgment constructs, the most prevalent type of construct in marketing.

Findings

The findings are, first, the mathematical dismissal of the accepted practice of convergent validation of alternative measures of the same construct, which paves the way for, second, the proposal of five new C-OAR-SE-based construct models for designing optimal standard measures of judgment constructs, three of which require a multiple-item measure and two of which a single-item measure.

Practical implications

The common practice of accepting alternative measures of the same construct causes major problems for the social sciences: when different measures are used, it becomes impossible, except by remote chance, to replicate findings; meta-analyses become meaningless because the findings are averaged over different measures; and empirical generalizations cannot be trusted when measures are changed. These problems mean that we cannot continue to accept alternative measures of the constructs and that, for each construct, an optimal standard measure must be found.

Originality/value

The ideas in this paper, which have untold value for the future of marketing as a legitimate science, are unique to Rossiter’s C-OAR-SE method of measure design.
Measurement in the social sciences: where C-OAR-SE delivers and where it does not
Authors: Salzberger Thomas , Sarstedt Marko , Diamantopoulos Adamantios
Published: November 2016

Purpose

This paper aims to critically comment Rossiter’s “How to use C-OAR-SE to design optimal standard measures” in the current issue of EJM and provides a broader perspective on Rossiter’s C-OAR-SE framework and measurement practice in marketing in general.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is conceptual, based on interpretation of measurement theory.

Findings

The paper shows that, at best, Rossiter’s mathematical dismissal of convergent validity applies to the completely hypothetical (and highly unlikely) situation where a perfect measure without any error would be available. Further considerations cast serious doubt on the appropriateness of Rossiter’s concrete object, dual subattribute-based single item measures. Being immunized against any piece of empirical evidence, C-OAR-SE cannot be considered a scientific theory and is bound to perpetuate, if not aggravate, the fundamental flaws in current measurement practice. While C-OAR-SE indeed helps generate more content valid instruments, the procedure offers no insights as to whether these instruments work properly to be used in research and practice.

Practical implications

This paper concludes that great caution needs to be exercised before adapting measurement instruments based on the C-OAR-SE procedure, and statistical evidence remains essential for validity assessment.

Originality/value

This paper identifies several serious conceptual and operational problems in Rossiter’s C-OAR-SE procedure and discusses how to align measurement in the social sciences to be compatible with the definition of measurement in the physical sciences.
Post-visit and pre-visit tourist destination image through eWOM sentiment analysis and perceived helpfulness
Authors: González-Rodríguez M. Rosario , Martínez-Torres Rocio , Toral Sergio
Published: November 2016

Purpose

This paper aims to explore the image of travel destinations after the visit by analysing sentiment orientation of the online reviews, and how this orientation, as well as other electronic word of mouth (eWOM)’s credibility sources, can affect the perceived helpfulness of shared opinions measured through the helpfulness score.

Design/methodology/approach

Tourist destinations are increasingly affected by travel-related information shared through the Web. More and more people first check the previous travel experiences of other people to build their own destination image and to help them in their choice of destination. This paper analyses the shared opinions related to the city of Barcelona in a well-known eWOM website. The reviewers’ opinion and the credibility sources of eWOM are extracted from the web using a webscraper, while the sentiment score to analyse the discourse orientation (positive vs negative) is calculated using computer-based sentiment analysis techniques.

Findings

Online reviews’ users are reluctant to provide extreme polar opinions (very negative, very positive) to any travel subcategory (hotel, restaurant, attractions and night-life) of a tourist destination. The results obtained also reveal that eWOM’s perceived helpfulness grows with the expertise of the reviewer. However, the helpfulness score given to the reviews posted is not influenced by the sentiment orientation of the author’s opinion.

Research limitations/implications

This research is limited to the case study of Ciao, which is a well-known consumer platform, and the city of Barcelona, which is a top touristic destination. However, the approach proposed can be easily extended to other similar consumer platforms and cities using the same methodology.

Practical implications

Understanding the information posted in the media environment is a major concern in the field of marketing destination planning. Positive and negative eWOM offers potential consumers a clear picture on the tourist destination, and this information can be used by Destination Marketing Organisations to meet customers’ needs and expectations. The perceived helpfulness of reviews analysed in this paper can also help practitioners and scholars to understand those factors that make reviews more trustable.

Originality/value

From a methodological point of view, the main contribution of this research is the utilisation of an unstructured approach to the measurement of the destination image based on the sentiment analysis of shared opinions. From a theoretical point of view, the study relates the post-visit destination image with the pre-visit image formation process, using the sentiment orientation of the former and the perceived helpfulness of the latter.
Operations and supply chain management
Authors: Coughlan Paul , Draaijer Domien , Godsell Janet , Boer Harry
Published: November 2016

Purpose

Based on the combined experiences of operations and supply chain management (O&SCM) scholars and a reflective practitioner, the paper compares, contrasts and reconciles the competences needed to research O&SCM practice and to practice O&SCM research. The purpose of this paper is to locate these competences for young faculty in relation to their ambitions and career choices.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is based upon the contributions made at European Operations Management Association 2014 Young Scholars Workshop (YSW). The theme and programme of the workshop was “Operations management – research and practice”.

Findings

The paper outlines first the concept of the YSW, the evolution of themes and the specific focus of the 2014 workshop. It concludes with a reflection on the career development of O&SCM scholars, their potential role, as academics or practitioners, in the development of O&SCM theory and practice, and the role of collaborative research in that development.

Practical implications

This paper shows what it takes for O&SCM researchers to engage with “the world around us” involves and, vice versa, how “doctorate” OM and SCM practitioners may successfully solve practical problems and engage with the O&SCM world surrounding them in doing so.

Originality/value

The paper presents a collection of viewpoints of O&SCM scholars and a reflective practitioner on the competences needed to research OM practice and to practice OM research.
A preventable death? A family’s perspective on an adult safeguarding review regarding an adult with traumatic brain injury
Authors: Norman Alyson
Published: November 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to review the care management of a man with a traumatic brain injury (TBI) from a family member’s perspective.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper provides a case history of “Tom” both prior to his TBI and after.

Findings

Tom was the subject of a safeguarding adults case review in Somerset following his death in 2014. Ultimately the paper highlights the shortcomings and failures in the care Tom received by various organisations which ultimately contributed to his suicide.

Practical implications

The paper highlights the need for more effective communication between professionals managing the care of those with TBI. Furthermore, professionals need training in the need for mental capacity assessments and improved safeguarding and risk assessments with adults with TBI.

Originality/value

This paper provides insight into the needs of an adult with TBI from the perspective of a family member who is also a trained psychologist.
SEC issues guidance on business continuity planning for registered investment companies
Authors: McCarthy Diana , Gordon Kay
Published: November 2016

Purpose

To explain guidance from the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) Division of Investment Management concerning registered investment companies’ business continuity and transition plans (BCPs).

Design/methodology/approach

Discusses the SEC’s concerns with fund complexes’ operational complexity and reliance on technology and third-party service providers, lists notable practices in the BCPs of some registered fund complexes, and addresses practical considerations.

Findings

While the SEC staff recognizes that it is not possible for a fund complex to anticipate or prevent every business continuity event, the staff also believes that fund complexes’ preparedness would be enhanced if in addition to complying with the federal securities laws, fund complexes and their advisers consider additional factors related to BCPs discussed in the Guidance.

Practical implications

It would be prudent for the fund boards to consider discussing the Guidance with fund investment advisers and fund CCOs to determine the status of fund complex BCPs and any gaps related to the Guidance. Boards may also want to review with their counsel the current BCP reporting framework and any enhancements needed in light of the Guidance.

Originality/value

Practical guidance from experienced securities, fund management, regulatory and compliance lawyers.
Predictive validity of evidence-based practices in supported employment: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Lockett Helen , Waghorn Geoffrey , Kydd Rob , Chant David
Published: November 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the predictive validity of two measures of fidelity to the individual placement and support (IPS) approach to supported employment.

Design/methodology/approach

A systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted of IPS programs. In total, 30 studies provided information characterizing 69 cohorts and 8,392 participants. Predictive validity was assessed by a precision and negative prediction analysis and by multivariate analysis of deviance.

Findings

Fidelity scores on the IPS-15 scale of 60 or less accurately predicted poor outcomes, defined as 43 percent or less of participants commencing employment, in 100 percent of cohorts. Among cohorts with IPS-15 fidelity scores of 61-75, 63 percent attained good employment outcomes defined as 44 percent or more commencing employment. A similar pattern emerged from the precision analysis of the smaller sample of IPS-25 cohorts. Multivariate analysis of deviance for studies using the IPS-15 scale examined six cohort characteristics. Following adjustment for fidelity score, only fidelity score (χ2=15.31, df=1, p<0.001) and author group (χ2=35.01, df=17, p=0.01) representing an aspect of cohort heterogeneity, remained associated with commencing employment.

Research limitations/implications

This study provides evidence of moderate, yet important, predictive validity of the IPS-15 scale across diverse international and research contexts. The smaller sample of IPS-25 studies limited the analysis that could be conducted.

Practical implications

Program implementation leaders are encouraged to first focus on attaining good fidelity, then supplement fidelity monitoring with tracking the percentage of new clients who obtain a competitive job employment over a pre-defined period of time.

Originality/value

The evidence indicates that good fidelity may be necessary but not sufficient for good competitive employment outcomes.
Quality of financial reporting in the Asia-Pacific region
Authors: Yasser Qaiser Rafique , Mamun Abdullah Al , Ahmed Irfan
Published: November 2016

Purpose

The main purpose of this paper is to examine the causes and interrelations between ownership composition and financial reporting quality of firms in the Asia-Pacific region.

Design/methodology/approach

The study uses panel data for 420 firms for the period 2011-2013 (three years) from Australia, Singapore, Malaysia, the Philippines and Pakistan.

Findings

Overall, the authors find that ownership concentration is positively associated with the financial reporting quality. However, institutional ownership and foreign ownership are positively associated with financial disclosure in developing countries. Further, the result indicates that institutional and public ownership is positively associated with financial reporting in developed countries. Among the control variables, the authors find that larger firms are negatively correlated with financial reporting quality in Asia-Pacific.

Originality/value

These results highlight the highly individualized effects of blockholders and the need for research to further understand the mechanisms through which shareholders impact financial reporting quality.
How generational differences will impact America’s aging workforce: strategies for dealing with aging Millennials, Generation X, and Baby Boomers
Authors: Fishman Ann Arnof
Published: November 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate how generational differences impact America’s workforce as it changes and to provide strategies for companies to address aging Millennials (born 1982-2000), Generation X (born 1961-1981) and Baby Boomers (born 1943-1960).

Design/methodology/approach

The author's approach was based on research on behalf of the US Senate Special Committee on Aging; insights and expertise from her 20 years at the helm of Generational Targeted Marketing, LLC; her teaching at New York University; her experience working with clients and organizations in a wide range of diverse industries; and the insights from her book Marketing to the Millennial Woman.

Findings

Every generation is unique. Practitioners, employers and managers of human resources (HR) who understand and respect the differences between Millennials, Generation X and Baby Boomers can develop strategies from a generational point of view and thereby enable these employees to perform at their peak regardless of age.

Research limitations/implications

Practical examples are given for HR practices in employee retention, benefits, performance management and review, work-life balance, digital and technology applications and for meaningful corporate outreaches.

Originality/value

This tried and true approach to dealing with distinct generations in the workplace leads to increased employee motivation and satisfaction, so that employees not only remain longer at a job but also are eager and happy to report to work each day; they are more productive; and the company’s bottom line benefits as a result.
Merging Institutional Logics and Negotiated Culture Perspectives to Help Cross‐Sector Partnerships Solve the World's Most Wicked Problems
Authors: EASTER SARAH , BRANNEN MARY YOKO
Published: November 2016

Showcasing a sixteen‐month ethnographic study of a coalition to end homelessness in Western Canada, we show how the integration of two theoretical perspectives—institutional logics and negotiated culture—can be used as complementary, yet distinct lenses to better inform the practice of cross sector partnerships which tackle the world's wicked problems. In doing so, we highlight how we were able to holistically capture the meaning systems at work in such multi‐faceted partnerships resulting in a better understanding of how partnerships can work across difference to affect positive social change. In particular, we capture how multiple stakeholders make sense of a partnership's identity in a variety of different ways based upon meaning systems with which they identify at multiple levels as well as how they enact bridging skills across meaning‐related boundaries to promote more effective partner interface.
Ethnography Is the Pathmaker to Better Care: Paving the Way to a Patient‐centric Healthcare Model
Authors: GREEN CIARA , POLAZZI LAURA , O'LOUGHLIN ERIN , TRAVERSO VITTORIA
Published: November 2016

This paper presents a clear and flexible model for understanding the concept of patient‐centricity. This model emerged from our own ethnographic work in healthcare contexts, and was tested and strengthened with a literature review and interviews with experts and thought leaders in the healthcare industry. Our model posits that patient‐centric care should be Personalized, Hassle‐free, Active, Collective and Transparent (PHACT). Hospitals, payers, clinicians, Pharma and MedTech divisions (among others) can use these pillars as a guide to drive their transition to patient‐centricity. The underpinning principle for the PHACT model is that ethnographic inquiry is the necessary path‐maker for each stakeholder to understand the best ways to implement and maintain these five pillars of patient‐centric care in their particular healthcare context.
Applying Theory to Applied Ethnography
Authors: CURY MARIA , BIRD DANIEL
Published: November 2016

In applied ethnographic praxis, how should we use theory? Exploring how existing theory from a variety of domains has supported and advanced our work, this paper justifies and demonstrates how theory can be used in an accessible and practical manner when framing research and analyzing experience in the field. Two approaches for using theory are outlined, providing guidelines for different ways to apply theory to applied ethnography. Defense of such approaches is provided through both an appeal to the value we have seen it add to ethnography in industry and to a brief return to Hermeneutic ethnography, inspired by the likes of Gadamer and Geertz. The latter serves as a reminder of reasons to be skeptical that as ethnographers we uncover “the real.” Pre‐existing theory provides valuable assistance when transforming an insight about the world into an idea with explanatory and predictive potential for our clients. Drawing upon theory allows us to elevate an interesting description of the “real” world into actionable insights with theoretical muscle. And we contend that ethnographers in industry need not incorporate theory in their work in the manner that is typical of academia – the same ‘rules’ and norms do not apply.
Everyday Life in Tamil Nadu, India and Its Cost to “Free Basics”
Authors: VENKATRAMAN SHRIRAM , RANGASWAMY NIMMI
Published: November 2016

This paper explores how the ‘Free Basics’ initiative in India got transformed into a national debate on ‘net neutrality’ principle and finally led to it being banned in India. Further, this paper will also use ethnographic data to analyse how this ‘controversial’ initiative was debated, the claims it made and the actual ground level reality in the state of Tamil Nadu.
How New Social Design Captures the Social with Photographs
Authors: KOSKINEN ILPO
Published: November 2016

New social design defines “the social” rather than material things as its main design object, and builds usually on ethnographic research techniques in capturing the social. Designers use camera in their fieldwork but unlike social scientists, they build their camera practices on a variety of sources, often artistic and journalistic rather than analytic. This paper explores how new social design captures the social with photographs. It shows that the main unit of social action in photography is the design act. Place on the other hand remains a non‐analytic feature that conveys the sense of having been there, but does not go deeper into the social. The most analytic constructs in photographs are diagrams and other representations. Discussion links these observations into the professionalization of design and its aesthetic rather than analytic base.