bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Who Cares What Others Think (or Do)? Social Learning and Social Pressures in Cotton Farming in India
Authors: Maertens Annemie
Published: November 2016

This paper examines the role that social networks play in the adoption process of Bacillus thurigiensis (Bt) cotton, a type of genetically engineered cotton that has been available on the Indian market since 2002. Using a unique dataset and empirical methodology, I find that farmers appeared to have exclusively learned from the experimentation of a small set of “progressive” farmers in the village, that is, adoption by other (“regular”) farmers was not considered a useful source of information about the technology. Second, I find evidence of social pressures, originating from the belief that Bt cotton might be hazardous to the environment and livestock, which inhibited adoption, at least for some time.
Impact of Infectious Diseases Consultation on Mortality of Cryptococcal Infection in Patients Without HIV
Authors: Spec Andrej , Olsen Margaret A. , Raval Krunal , Powderly William G.
Published: November 2016

Background.

An infectious disease (ID) consultation (consult) is often obtained to treat patients with cryptococcosis due to the complex nature of the disease, but has never been demonstrated to impact outcomes.

Methods.

We assembled a retrospective cohort of 147 consecutive cases of cryptococcosis in patients without human immunodeficiency virus. Patients who were diagnosed <24 hours prior to death were excluded. Survival analysis was performed with Cox regression with survival censored past 90 days.

Results.

The patients with an ID consult had a higher fungal burden but a lower 90-day mortality compared with patients without ID involvement (27% vs 45%; P < .001), with an adjusted hazard ratio of not receiving an ID consult of 4.2 (95% confidence interval, 2.2–7.6). The ID consult group was more likely to receive an indicated lumbar puncture (86% vs 32%; P < .001), and more likely to be treated with amphotericin B (AmB) (87% vs 24%; P < .001) and flucytosine (5-FC) (57% vs 16%; P < .001) when indicated. The duration of therapy with AmB (14 vs 11 days; P = .05) and 5-FC (7.5 days vs 1 day; P < .001) was longer in the ID consult group.

Conclusions.

Patients who received an ID consult were significantly less likely to die in the 90 days following diagnosis. Patients seen by ID physicians were more likely to be managed according to evidence-based practice established by randomized controlled trials and published in Infectious Diseases Society of America guidelines. These data suggest that an ID consult should be an integral part of clinical care of patients with cryptococcosis.
Inclusion of ecological, economic, social, and institutional considerations when setting targets and limits for multispecies fisheries
Authors: Rindorf Anna , Dichmont Catherine M. , Thorson James , Charles Anthony , Clausen Lotte Worsøe , Degnbol Poul , Garcia Dorleta , Hintzen Niels T. , Kempf Alexander , Levin Phillip , Mace Pamela , Maravelias Christos , Minto Coilín , Mumford John , Pascoe Sean , Prellezo Raul , Punt André E. , Reid David G. , Röckmann Christine , Stephenson Robert L. , Thebaud Olivier , Tserpes George , Voss Rüdiger
Published: November 2016

Targets and limits for long-term management are used in fisheries advice to operationalize the way management reflects societal priorities on ecological, economic, social and institutional aspects. This study reflects on the available published literature as well as new research presented at the international ICES/Myfish symposium on targets and limits for long term fisheries management. We examine the inclusion of ecological, economic, social and institutional objectives in fisheries management, with the aim of progressing towards including all four objectives when setting management targets or limits, or both, for multispecies fisheries. The topics covered include ecological, economic, social and governance objectives in fisheries management, consistent approaches to management, uncertainty and variability, and fisheries governance. We end by identifying ten ways to more effectively include multiple objectives in setting targets and limits in ecosystem based fisheries management.
Use of Nested and Real-Time PCR for the Detection of Ceratocystis fagacearum in the Sapwood of Diseased Oak Species in Minnesota
Authors: Yang A. , Juzwik J.
Published: November 2016

Oak wilt caused by Ceratocystis fagacearum is a significant disease of Quercus spp. in the eastern United States. Early and accurate detection of the pathogen is particularly important when disease control is planned. Nested and real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) methods utilizing fungal DNA extracted from sapwood drill shavings of red, bur, and white oak at different stages of disease development were compared with culture-based detection from sapwood. The pathogen was detected in all (n = 3) actively wilting branches of each of nine red oak trees using all three methods. The lowest detection rate (33% of assayed branches; 6 of 8 trees) for actively wilting branches was found for white oak using isolation while nested PCR had a branch detection rate of 100% (8 of 8 trees) and real-time PCR of 87% (8 of 8 trees) for the same samples. For both bur and white oak, the pathogen was not detected by isolation in branches over 1 year after their death but was detected using both PCR methods. Only the PCR assays detected the fungus in sapwood samples underlying remnants of sporulation mats (n = 21; 90%, nested and 62%, real-time) on red oak. These PCR methods offer several significant improvements for laboratory-based detection methods of C. fagacearum.
The Determinants of Physical Activity in Rural Women, Aged 20 to 44 Years, in Georgia
Authors: Nazaruk Dziyana , Tedders Stuart H. , Alfonso Moya L. , Vogel Robert L.
Published: November 2016

Physical activity rates in rural women are very low. The purpose of this study was to explore the determinants of physical activity in rural women aged 20 to 44 years. A survey was used to collect data on a cluster sample of 184 participants. This study was guided by Self-Determination Theory. Survey data suggest that the highest type of motivation was identified regulation, and husband's support had the strongest effect on physical activity. Findings suggest that a history of sports participation can lead to the formation of intrinsic motivation. The results will assist in developing effective physical activity interventions.
Effect of the Direct Oral Anticoagulants Rivaroxaban and Apixaban on the Disposition of Calcineurin Inhibitors in Transplant Recipients
Authors: Vanhove Thomas , Spriet Isabel , Annaert Pieter , Maertens Johan , Van Cleemput Johan , Vos Robin , Kuypers Dirk
Published: November 2016

Background:

Calcineurin inhibitors (CNIs) and direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) share certain metabolic pathways, but whether DOACs influence CNI exposure has not been assessed.

Methods:

A single-center retrospective analysis was performed including 39 organ recipients treated with the combination of a CNI and rivaroxaban (n = 29) or apixaban (n = 10). Dose-corrected CNI trough concentrations (C0/D) during 200 days before and after DOAC initiation were recorded (n = 261), together with covariates known to influence CNI disposition such as steroid dose and hematocrit. The average C0/D before and during DOAC therapy was compared using paired samples t test. Multivariable mixed models were constructed to estimate the effect of DOAC and other predictors on C0/D at each time point.

Results:

Group average C0/D was not significantly different before and during DOAC therapy for any CNI–DOAC combination (P = 0.089–0.761), although C0/D changed >20% in 19/39 patients (13 increases, 6 decreases). In multivariable analysis, independent predictors of tacrolimus C0/D were methylprednisolone dose (P = 0.039) and concomitant use of a CYP3A inhibitor (P = 0.007). The subgroup analysis per DOAC showed a limited but significant effect of rivaroxaban on tacrolimus C0/D (9.2% increase, P = 0.042). Independent predictors of ciclosporin C0/D were age (P = 0.018) and use of any DOAC (12.1% increase, P = 0.020).

Conclusions:

Apixaban, and particularly rivaroxaban, may cause a limited (<20%) increase in CNI trough concentration, an effect that is unlikely to trigger a dose change. It may be prudent to perform an additional CNI trough concentration measurement 5–7 days after DOAC initiation, but preemptive CNI dose changes are not warranted based on these observations.
Occult Hepatitis B Virus Reactivation in a Seronegative Stem Cell Transplant Recipient
Authors: Chandrasekar Pranatharthi H. , Levine Miriam T.
Published: November 2016

Occult Hepatitis B virus infection is not a well-recognized entity. We describe the case of a seronegative (HB surface antigen, HB core antibody, and HB surface antibody negative) patient who had reactivation of occult hepatitis B infection after an allogenic stem cell transplantation. Whether every potential stem cell recipient should be screened for hepatitis B DNA in serum before transplantation is unclear. The case report raises the awareness of possible reactivation of occult hepatitis B infection in completely seronegative transplant recipients who present with elevated serum transaminase levels.
When is it ok to use a splint versus cast and what remodeling can one expect for common pediatric forearm fractures
Authors: Runyon Robert S. , Doyle Shevaun M.
Published: November 2016

Purpose of review

The purpose of this review is to provide an overview of common pediatric forearm fractures, clarify the descriptions used to identify and thereby appropriately treat them with a splint or cast, and explain osseous remodeling that is unique to the skeletally immature.

Recent findings

Recent literature addresses the gap in standard treatment protocols. There is variability in the management of pediatric forearm fractures because of the multiple subspecialty physicians that care for children's fractures and a lack of well established guidelines.

Conclusion

The following review will expound upon the assortment of pediatric forearm fractures, address suitable treatment options, and illustrate the expected restoration of bony deformity in an effort to update practitioners of the most recent advances in research and clinical practice of this common orthopedic injury.
An International Comparison of the Instigation and Design of Health Registers in the Epidemiological Response to Major Environmental Health Incidents
Authors: Behbod Behrooz , Leonardi Giovanni , Motreff Yvon , Beck Charles R. , Yzermans Joris , Lebret Erik , Muravov Oleg I. , Bayleyegn Tesfaye , Wolkin Amy Funk , Lauriola Paolo , Close Rebecca , Crabbe Helen , Pirard Philippe
Published: November 2016

Context:

Epidemiological preparedness is vital in providing relevant, transparent, and timely intelligence for the management, mitigation, and prevention of public health impacts following major environmental health incidents. A register is a set of records containing systematically collected, standardized data about individual people. Planning for a register of people affected by or exposed to an incident is one of the evolving tools in the public health preparedness and response arsenal.

Objective:

We compared and contrasted the instigation and design of health registers in the epidemiological response to major environmental health incidents in England, France, Italy, the Netherlands, and the United States.

Design:

Consultation with experts from the 5 nations, supplemented with a review of gray and peer-reviewed scientific literature to identify examples where registers have been used.

Setting:

Populations affected by or at risk from major environmental health incidents in England, France, Italy, the Netherlands, and the United States.

Methods:

Nations were compared with respect to the (1) types of major incidents in their remit for considering a register; (2) arrangements for triggering a register; (3) approaches to design of register; (4) arrangements for register implementation; (5) uses of registers; and (6) examples of follow-up studies.

Results:

Health registers have played a key role in the effective public health response to major environmental incidents, including sudden chemical, biological, radiological, or nuclear, as well as natural, more prolonged incidents. Value has been demonstrated in the early and rapid deployment of health registers, enabling the capture of a representative population.

Conclusion:

The decision to establish a health register must ideally be confirmed immediately or soon after the incident using a set of agreed criteria. The establishment of protocols for the instigation, design, and implementation of health registers is recommended as part of preparedness activities. Key stakeholders must be aware of the importance of, and protocols for, establishing a register.

Agencies will find value in preparing and implementing registers as part of an effective public health response to major environmental incidents, including sudden chemical, biological, radiological, or nuclear incidents, as well as natural, more prolonged incidents.
Digital Subtraction of Magnetic Resonance Images Improves Detection and Characterization of Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Neoplasms
Authors: De Robertis Riccardo , Tinazzi Martini Paolo , Cingarlini Sara , Ortolani Silvia , Butturini Giovanni , Regi Paolo , Landoni Luca , Tortora Giampaolo , Pederzoli Paolo , D’Onofrio Mirko
Published: November 2016

Objective

The aim of this study was to evaluate the usefulness of digital image subtraction of contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance (MR) images for detection and characterization of pancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms (PanNENs).

Methods

Magnetic resonance examinations of 50 histologically verified PanNENs were retrospectively evaluated by 2 radiologists; 50 ductal adenocarcinomas were included as a control group. Late arterial phase images and correspondent subtracted images were analyzed. Tumor detectability on a subjective 3-point scale and contrast-to-noise ratios were compared across sequences using paired Student t tests. Tumor signal intensity was compared between sequences using χ2 or Fisher exact tests.

Results

Subjective conspicuity and contrast-to-noise ratios of PanNENs were significantly higher on subtracted images compared with correspondent late arterial phase images (P < 0.001 and P = 0.002). The rate of clearly hyperenhancing PanNENs was higher on subtracted images compared with arterial phase images (76% vs 36%).

Conclusions

Digital image subtraction improves tumor conspicuity and allows better characterization of PanNENs compared with late arterial phase images.
Hematocrit and Serum Hemoglobin Do Not Influence Values in Computed Tomography Perfusion of Patients With Acute Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Karwacki Grzegorz Marek , Benz Matthias Richard , Tyndall Anthony Joseph , Ulmer Stephan
Published: November 2016

Objective

There is a correlation between both serum hemoglobin (HGB) and hematocrit (HCT) and attenuation values of vessels in noncontrast-enhanced computed tomography (NECT), which could influence calculated perfusion maps in CT perfusion.

Methods

We retrospectively included 45 patients, who presented with acute new neurological symptoms and underwent NECT and CT perfusion (128-row multi detector scanner, coverage: 6.9 cm craniocaudally; 80 kV; 200 mAs; temporal resolution: 2 seconds using 40 mL Ultravist 370 at a flow rate of 5 mL/s) on admission and a follow-up MRI within 1 week of admission.

Results

Hematocrit, HGB, and attenuation values did not differ between patients with stroke and controls. A statistically significant correlation was found between HCT and HGB and attenuation values in the internal carotid artery or middle cerebral artery on NECT (P < 0.05). No statistically significant correlation was observed between HCT and HGB and perfusion maps.

Conclusions

Hematocrit and HGB do not influence calculated perfusion maps. There is no need for HCT/HGB-adjusted cerebral blood volume thresholds in stroke patients.
Left Ventricular Myocardial Fibrosis, Atrophy, and Impaired Contractility in Patients With Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension and a Preserved Left Ventricular Function
Authors: Homsi Rami , Luetkens Julian A. , Skowasch Dirk , Pizarro Carmen , Sprinkart Alois M. , Gieseke Juergen , Meyer zur Heide gen. Meyer-Arend Julia , Schild Hans H. , Naehle Claas P.
Published: November 2016

Purpose:

Using a cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) approach we investigated left ventricular (LV) myocardial changes associated with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) by strain analysis and mapping techniques.

Materials and Methods:

Seventeen patients with PAH (9 men; mean age, 64.2±13.6 y) and 20 controls (10 men, 63.2±10.5 y) were examined using CMR at 1.5 T. Native LV T1-relaxation times (T1) and extracellular volume fraction (ECV) were assessed using a MOLLI sequence, T2-relaxation times (T2) by means of a gradient spin-echo sequence, and LV longitudinal strain (LVS) and right ventricular (RV) longitudinal strain (RVS) by means of CMR feature tracking. The hematocrit and serum levels of pro-Brain Natriuretic Peptide were determined on the day of the CMR examination. Pulmonary arterial pressure and 6-minute walking distance were assessed as part of the clinical evaluation.

Results:

T1 and ECV were higher (1048.5±46.6 vs. 968.3±22.9 ms and 32.4%±5.7% vs. 28.4%±3.8%; P<0.05) and LVS was lower in patients with PAH (−18.0±5.6 vs. −23.0±2.9; P<0.01) compared with controls. LV mass and interventricular septal thickness were lower in PAH patients (65.7±18.0 vs. 86.7±26.9 g and 7.6±1.9 vs. 10±2.4 mm; P<0.05); there were no differences in LV ejection fraction (61.2%±6.9% vs. 61.9%±6.7%; P=0.86). T1-derived parameters correlated significantly with RVS, LVS, the 6-minute walking distance, RV ejection fraction, pro-Brain Natriuretic Peptide, and baseline mean pulmonary arterial pressure. There were no significant differences in T2.

Conclusions:

In patients with PAH, changes in T1 and ECV support the hypothesis of LV myocardial fibrosis and atrophy with a consecutively impaired contractility despite a preserved LV function, possibly due to longstanding PAH-associated LV underfilling.
Antisense transcription licenses nascent transcripts to mediate transcriptional gene silencing
Authors: Dang Yunkun , Cheng Jiasen , Sun Xianyun , Zhou Zhipeng , Liu Yi
Published: November 2016

In eukaryotes, antisense transcription can regulate sense transcription by induction of epigenetic modifications. We showed previously that antisense transcription triggers Dicer-independent siRNA (disiRNA) production and disiRNA locus DNA methylation (DLDM) in Neurospora crassa. Here we show that the conserved exonuclease ERI-1 (enhanced RNAi-1) is a critical component in this process. Antisense transcription and ERI-1 binding to target RNAs are necessary and sufficient to trigger DLDM. Convergent transcription causes stalling of RNA polymerase II during transcription, which permits ERI-1 to bind nascent RNAs in the nucleus and recruit a histone methyltransferase complex that catalyzes chromatin modifications. Furthermore, we show that, in the cytoplasm, ERI-1 targets hundreds of transcripts from loci without antisense transcription to regulate RNA stability. Together, our results demonstrate a critical role for transcription kinetics in long noncoding RNA-mediated epigenetic modifications and identify ERI-1 as an important regulator of cotranscriptional gene silencing and post-transcriptional RNA metabolism.
Navigating United Nations data sources
Authors: DeLuca Lisa
Published: November 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to direct academic librarians to free data resources that support international relations research. This paper provides technical information so readers can download data from referenced sites for analysis. Proper citation of data sources is emphasized.

Design/methodology/approach

The resources were compiled from teaching information and statistical literacy to diplomacy undergraduate and graduate students. Data and data sets described are relevant to country research and sustainable development.

Findings

Academic librarians will help students identify if they are looking for data specific to an agency, indicator, initiative, or general topic. Statistical literacy is also an underlying goal for academic librarians. Key word searching is important for finding sources that may not surface through a simple Google search.

Research limitations/implications

The free services described may not answer all research queries. Librarians may need to use services such as Political Risk Service’s CountryData Online.

Practical implications

This is an excellent resource list of secondary data sources for academic librarians in areas that may not be their area of expertise or for those not at Tier 1 research institutions.

Social implications

Students internationally will have access to this data. This has implications for US college students who are competing with students overseas for jobs and will use data to help future employers make strategic decisions.

Originality/value

There has not been anything published recently in library literature about United Nations data resources. This article features commentary from two Seton Hall University Diplomacy faculty plus EDUCAUSE and UK researchers.
Understanding change recipients’ responses to organizational change in Chinese hospitals
Authors: Gurd Bruce , Gao Tian
Published: November 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to build a new model of organisational change in Chinese hospitals drawing in all the key factors which explain the change process. At a time of significant change in Chinese hospitals, understanding change recipients’ responses is critical. For this study, a model of their responses to change has been constructed from previous models and compared with a case study of dramatic change in a Chinese hospital. A new model has been produced which may be generalizable to other Chinese hospitals.

Design/methodology/approach

Two existing models of organizational change were merged, and the new model was tested using data collected from a research site at a single Chinese hospital where the change program included the balanced scorecard performance management system, a new pay-related performance system and significant strategic change.

Findings

A final revised model was created which built in the external context, including the professional culture and national culture which have complex impacts on individuals during a change process, in both beneficial and harmful ways.

Research limitations/implications

Multi-informants for data collection and longitudinal design in future research would be required for the further understanding of the relationships between the variables of this study. A single case study is not sufficient; broader testing is required.

Practical implications

The factors that impact on the individuals during change should be understood better by Chinese hospital managers.

Originality/value

This is a new model which adds to the existing literature. Although it is built primarily around hospitals, it may have relevance to other contexts in China.
Bridging the gap: bringing BIM to construction workers
Authors: Bråthen Ketil , Moum Anita
Published: November 2016

Purpose

The majority of research on the implementation and use of Building Information Models (BIM) have focused on building design and pre-construction planning. There is only limited research on the usage of BIM in the construction phase, especially by site workers. The purpose of this paper is to analyze the use of BIM by site workers through so-called “BIM-kiosks”. The kiosks allow workers to access BIM models on-site. The aim of this paper is to take a closer look on the introduction of BIM-kiosks and scrutinize how and for what purpose site workers use the kiosks.

Design/methodology/approach

This is a single case study of an ongoing real-world construction project. The case study is based on qualitative data which stems from observational studies, interviews as well as document studies.

Findings

Site workers find opportunities for 3D visualization useful and the BIM models are appraised for efficiently handling complex elements. The findings also indicate that the use of BIM-kiosks lead to a greater level of face-to-face collaboration between workers on-site. This may happen because workers meet, both planned and randomly, to discuss in front of the kiosks while using it for visualization.

Research limitations/implications

The research is limited to a single case. However, some of the recommendations may be relevant to other projects. In addition, the findings demonstrate some of the potential of using BIM on-site in upcoming construction projects.

Originality/value

Only a few studies have addressed the use of BIM among site workers. Thus, the findings provide practitioners and researchers insight into how current practices may be improved, as well as areas where more research is needed.
Elitism: normative ethics of local organisation in community-based natural resources management
Authors: Yadav Bhagwan Dutta , Bigsby Hugh R. , MacDonald Ian
Published: November 2016

Purpose

Local organisations have been established on participatory approach whose central purpose is to establish development activities bringing about positive change as four pillars of developments: to establish decentralised robust local organisation for sustainable forest management to enhance livelihood of rural people, to meet the forest products basic needs of local people, targeted interventions for poverty alleviation and social mobilisation initiatives and biodiversity conservation climate change mitigation and adaptation.

Design/methodology/approach

Local organisational elites designed/conceptualised the concept, where it can be operated organisationally and in local organisational context that provides new ways and methods to develop conceptual framework (Table I), which sheds light on involvement of poor and underprivileged members in decision-making process and distribution of benefit on equity basis.

Findings

The findings will lead to a positive change through the organisational elite model through both reorganising organisations and restructuring of power with change in the society and reduce the impact of rational choices, vested interests of elites (leaders of local organisation) and political factors, which are otherwise playing a game or tragedy of commons.

Research limitations/implications

Because of the limited resources and time, the authors are unable to verify it on the other development line agencies such as drinking water scheme, livestock, health and cooperative.

Practical implications

It considerably appears that the impacts are very sound to conclude from the review of above models of elites that provide a very clear understanding and useful conceiving lens to formulate how participation occurs in the executive committee of the community forestry user groups (CFUG) and community-based organisations based on three key elements. First are the caste and the caste structure of the community. Second is the wealth status of the individual, and third is power created both from wealth and caste. This should be determined from the local organisational elite model (Table I) about the nature of interactions on the executive of the CFUGs and other vehicles of local community-based development organisations.

Social implications

Local organisations will provide an opportunity in reality to both elites and non-elites to considerably change, make aware and create a realistic situation to determine the dialectical opportunity to develop relationship, interaction and configuration between elite and non-elite members both outside and inside of the local organisations.

Originality/value

It has not been found in literatures yet such sort of concept developed in development field particularly in the development activities performed by participation of local users. Hence, it is certainly original conceptual framework.
Examining music as a therapy for complex needs and offending behaviour
Authors: Sicard Louise Andrea
Published: November 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine music as a therapy for complex needs and offending behaviour.

Design/methodology/approach

This study utilised the rapid evidence assessment (REA) approach to collect and assess the current data pertaining to music as a therapy for complex needs and offending behaviour. Within the REA this study used a thematic analysis as the analytical framework to manage and explore the wealth of data collected during the REA.

Findings

The results of this study are presented in two parts – first, the application of music as a therapy for complex needs and second, music as a therapy for offending behaviour. These two sections explore music therapy as an effective intervention method for offending behaviour and/or complex needs. Psychopathy as a complex need is a subsidiary theme that is also investigated within this section.

Research limitations/implications

To present music as a therapy as an effective method of therapy and intervention for those with offending behaviour and/or complex needs, thus, leading to further research in the field.

Practical implications

To incorporate music therapy into working with offending behaviour; to incorporate music therapy into interventions for those with complex needs, such as psychopaths; to recognise a need for developing innovative approaches/methods to address gaps in treatment; and to recognise music therapy’s potential as a programme utilised alongside cognitive-behavioural therapy.

Originality/value

There has been a significant amount of academic attention given to researching music as an effective therapy for select groups such as those with autism, anxiety, dementia and depression. The scope of this attention has extended to examine the link between music, cognition and emotion. The limitation of this work is the lack of research that has focussed on music as a therapy as an intervention for complex needs and offending behaviour, to which this study will begin to redress.
Applicability of anti-money laundering laws to legal practitioners in Nigeria
Authors: Ahiauzu Ndidi , Inko-Tariah Teingo
Published: November 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to review the recent judgement of the Federal High Court exempting Nigerian lawyers from anti-money laundering (AML) obligations and to proffer suggestions as to ways of complying with international standards.

Design/methodology/approach

An analysis of the case and judgement was undertaken and a commentary on the effect of the obligations on lawyers was given. As a result of the analysis, suggestions were made to satisfy regulatory requirements while recognising the sanctity of the legal profession and the professional responsibilities members owe to their clients.

Findings

AML obligations are tasking and may impact negatively on rights of both lawyers and of their clients. However, with some measures taken by both regulators and lawyers, loopholes can be comfortably covered without leaving the legal sector exposed to criminal intents.

Research limitations/implications

There has not been any appeal on the case, and therefore the paper may not be conclusive.

Practical implications

Very relevant recommendations were made and, if taken up, may provide a meeting point for both parties and achieve the key purpose of detecting and/or preventing money laundering.

Originality/value

This is the first academic paper to analyse the current case and to provide relevant suggestions on the matter.
Empirical study about the role of social networks in SME performance
Authors: Franco Mário , Haase Heiko , Pereira Ana
Published: November 2016

Purpose

This study aims to show the role of social networks in the performance of small- and medium-sized firms (SMEs) in an inland region of Portugal. The main objective is to ascertain the motives for adhering to social networks and to understand if this type of network influences performance in this firm sector.

Design/methodology/approach

To fulfill this aim, a quantitative research was adopted, based on application of a questionnaire, the final sample being formed of 86 SMEs.

Findings

Based on the results obtained, it is concluded that the SMEs studied are connected to social networks, especially Facebook. The principal reason for this type of firm connecting to social networks has to do with the possibility of presenting services to a greater number of potential customers.

Practical implications

The empirical evidence obtained also shows that the motives associated with cost reduction influence both financial indicators (profit growth) and non-financial indicators (human resource results), and communication and innovation influence only non-financial performance (level of satisfaction).

Originality/value

This study contributes to advancing theory in the field of social networks in SMEs. More precisely, this study suggests that to assess their performance, SME leaders should not use only measures of a financial nature (sales volume, level of growth, etc.), but rather in combination with non-financial indicators such as customer satisfaction, reputation and others.
The risk-capital-efficiency trilogy
Authors: Louati Salma , Louhichi Awatef , Boujelbene Younes
Published: November 2016

Purpose

Based on a matched sample of 34 Islamic banks and 89 conventional ones, the purpose of this paper is to analyze and compare the risk-capital-efficiency interconnection.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on the triple square model (3SLS), two major risk measures have been accounted for, namely, the ratio of non-performing loans to total loans (credit risk) and thez-score indicator (risk insolvency). In addition, certain bank-specific factors as well as macroeconomic ones have also been considered in the model.

Findings

The reached results appear to reveal that the best capitalized Western banks turn out to be more engaged in an excessive risk-taking behavior, resulting in increased toxic-loan ratios and, simultaneously, a rather shaken stability. Concerning Islamic banks, cost efficiency has proven to have a negative and significant effect on NPLs. However, the capital, technical efficiency, competitiveness and macroeconomic factors turn out to have a significant and positive effect on Islamic banks’ insolvency risk, thus helping promote these banks’ stability.

Originality/value

In addition to the enrichment of literature regarding dual-banking systems, the authors hope the present work would provide a modest contribution to the regulators belonging to the MENA region and Asia with useful results. In particular, the authors recommend developing some management and monitoring tools whereby the risk-taking behavior of highly capitalized conventional banks could be moderated. As a matter of fact, special attention should be paid to the agency problems prevalent within Islamic financial institutions, particularly the best capitalized ones.
What determines firms’ zero-leverage policy in India?
Authors: Ghose Biswajit , Kabra Kailash Chandra
Published: November 2016

Purpose

This paper studies the relationship between characteristics of firms’ and their propensity to maintain zero-leverage (ZL). Its second objective is to examine the impact of macroeconomic conditions on firms’ ZL policy. Finally, the purpose of this paper is to explore the underlying motives behind eschewing debt for constrained and unconstrained firms.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper uses data of 2001 non-financial and non-utility listed Indian firms over a period of 2005-2013 from Capitaline database. Size quintiles and dividend payment status have been used to differentiate between constrained and unconstrained firms. It uses t-test and logistic regression to draw inferences.

Findings

In general, firms pursuing ZL policy are financially constrained. However, there is a sub-section of ZL firms found unconstrained with high profitability. They appear to be “self-sufficient” to meet their financing requirements. Finally, macroeconomic conditions are counter cyclically related to firms’ ZL policy.

Research limitations/implications

The impact of corporate governance practices on firms’ ZL policy could not be examined due to data inadequacy. However, financial constraints and the presence of ZL firms come out as important factors to be paid special attention for future empirical works on capital structure.

Practical implications

The findings can be useful for financial managers in designing capital structure on the basis of their financial position.

Originality/value

Previous studies on ZL phenomenon are based on developed countries. The findings of previous studies conducted for developed countries get revalidated for the first time in the context of an emerging economy like India.
Corporate social responsibility: perceptions of directors in Brazil
Authors: Parente Tobias Coutinho , Machado Filho Cláudio Antonio Pinheiro
Published: November 2016

Purpose

Literature has suggested that the agenda of corporate social responsibility (CSR) is an extension of corporate governance (CG) and would be under the responsibility of the board of directors. In this sense, the authors seek to understand the perception of board members on the CSR issue.

Design/methodology/approach

Exploratory survey with 128 Brazilian board members was carried out. The authors looked at their perception about the incorporation of CSR in business agendas and on what they consider when deciding on issues related to CSR.

Findings

The results show that board members understand the organization more as an entity that has a social role to play than something that simply acts pragmatically. This position is reflected in their decision-making processes rather than in the values and beliefs of the controllers’ majority shareholders, which consider what creates long-term value for organizations. The directors seek to create and maintain value for organizations for them to operate sustainably.

Practical implications

This research contributes to structuring boards. When choosing board members, having only technical requirements is no longer sufficient; their psychological profile and history also need to be taken into account. It also contributes to the drafting of CSR policies by showing what board members think of CSR and how they make decisions.

Originality/value

This study focuses on understanding how the director as an individual observes CSR. Much has been studied about CG, CSR and board members; however, little is known regarding the opinion of board members with regard to CSR. The authors are suggesting an approach to the singularities of directors as another direction in governance research.
Challenging corporate commitment to CSR
Authors: Fehre Kerstin , Weber Florian
Published: November 2016

Purpose

In times of crisis, the fundamental principles of companies erode, leading to strategy shifts. This paper aims to examine whether corporate social responsibility (CSR) is on management’s agenda in times of crisis, indicating CSR embeddedness into corporate strategy. The focus is on the four pillars of CSR: social, environment, economy and governance.

Design/methodology/approach

Starting points are competing hypotheses based on shareholder and stakeholder theory. Chief executive officer (CEO) letters to shareholders of German HDAX firms from 2003 to 2012 are analyzed by means of computer-aided text analysis.

Findings

The authors find that CEOs talk less about CSR in times of crisis, especially about social and governance issues, indicating that CSR is not fully embedded into corporate strategy, and that, in times of crisis, other aspects gain more importance on management’s agenda.

Research limitations/implications

CEO communication is an indicator for management’s attention. Less talk about CSR in times of crisis does not automatically indicate less real CSR activity. This study is a starting point for analyses of the discrepancy between both, if any exists.

Practical implications

Managers should regard CSR as a strategic and trust enhancing element and stick to CSR even when under pressure from market distortions.

Social implications

Environment issues – exposed to companies’ attention for a long time – are embedded into corporate strategy. More research and management attention is essential to get the other CSR aspects woven into company DNA as well.

Originality/value

The paper is the first to research CSR in times of crisis in depth: CSR as umbrella covers social, environment, economy and governance issues. The institutional level of analysis ensures that implications for the business-society link are central.
What does it say and who said it? The contingent effects of online word of mouth in China
Authors: Luo Biao , Zhang Zheyu , Liu Yong , Gao Weihe
Published: November 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine how consumers respond to online word of mouth (WOM) with different valence (i.e. what does it say) and from different sources (i.e. who said it) in an important emerging economy, China.

Design/methodology/approach

Theory with experiments.

Findings

The authors find that Chinese consumers seek confirmatory information and pay greater attention to WOM that agrees with their initial attitude. Consumers with a high (vs low) need for cognition are more likely to rate WOM from far (vs closer) social distance as more impactful on themselves. For public-consumption products, the consumers are influenced more by “who said it” (source) than by “what does it say” (valence). The reverse holds for private consumption.

Research limitations/implications

The paper could be extended to other online behaviors. It can also be extended to empirical testing using market data.

Practical implications

Since Chinese consumers tend to focus on online information that is consistent with their initial attitude, it can be more difficult for either the seller or third-party website to utilize online WOM as a persuasive tool in China than in other countries. Firms may also customize their online strategies based on product category. For products that are consumed in private, WOM content is more important than source. If the firm wants to facilitate consumer interaction and influence, greater attention should be paid to make the content easy to access and utilize.

Social implications

Due to the explosive growth of e-Commerce in China, many global and Chinese firms rushed to set up online communities to facilitate information exchange among consumers. Our findings indicate that the impact of these communities may have been overvalued. Chinese consumers are influenced by online information, but if the majority of the online messages are from anonymous strangers, consumers tend to discount their credibility.

Originality/value

Our study represents an earlier effort to predict, and test, how online WOM can be associated with the specific cultural and market environments. It provides direct implications for both consumer behavior and firm strategy.
Electrodermal Responses Through Textile Electrodes
Authors: Lanatà Antonio , Valenza Gaetano , Scilingo E.Pasquale
Published: November 2016

This paper aims at testing the ability of textile electrodes to effectively acquire electrodermal responses (EDRs). EDRs are acquired from sixteen healthy subjects in order to comparatively evaluate the performance of textile versus standard silver/silver chloride (Ag/AgCl) electrodes. The acquired signals are analyzed in the time and frequency domain, and a statistical approach is used to validate the system. Moreover, a characterization of a textile electrode, in terms of electrode impedance measurement and a current/voltage diagram, is carried out in the frequency range of EDR usability (from 0.01 Hz to 2 Hz). The results show good performance.
Modelling responses of western Amazonian palms to soil nutrients
Authors: Cámara‐Leret Rodrigo , Tuomisto Hanna , Ruokolainen Kalle , Balslev Henrik , Munch Kristiansen Søren
Published: November 2016

Understanding the responses of individual plant species along different edaphic gradients is a key question in ecology, with implications to community assembly, functioning of forest ecosystems, niche theory and conservation planning. In tropical rain forests, responses to soil nutrients have been described only for a handful of species. Even abundant and conspicuous components of the forest, such as the palms (Arecaceae), remain largely unknown in this respect.

We inventoried all palm species and analysed soil chemistry in 96 sites across western Amazonia to (i) assess the relative importance of some micronutrients vs. macronutrients as drivers of patterns in palm species composition, (ii) model the response shapes of 61 palm taxa and of canopy vs. understorey palms along gradients of selected soil nutrients, (iii) determine if the response shapes of conspecific palm varieties differ in relation to the most important observed soil nutrient and (iv) assess if the rank order of the most abundant canopy species changes along edaphic gradients.

Patterns in palm species composition were best explained by Mehlich‐III extractable exchangeable bases (Ca, K, Mg) and phosphorus (P), with the different palm species clearly separating along the soil cation concentration gradient. All 61 palm taxa exhibited statistical responses along soil nutrient gradients. Response shapes in relation to exchangeable bases varied among bimodal skewed (51% of species), unimodal skewed (47%) and monotonic (2%).

There were no significant differences between canopy vs. understorey species in their mean response shapes to the exchangeable bases, but canopy species had significantly higher mean optimum value for soil P and greater mean niche width along the Ca, K, Mg, P and boron (B) gradients. Varieties of the same species ofBactris,DesmoncusandGeonomagenerally had different response shapes and different optima for the exchangeable bases.

Synthesis. Among the soil variables we studied, macronutrients (especially exchangeable bases and P) emerged as more important than micronutrients in predicting species abundances in palm communities of western Amazonian non‐inundated forests. Non‐Gaussian responses were predominant, conspecific palm varieties exhibited different response types, and the rank order of dominance of canopy palms varied along the gradients of exchangeable bases and P. Together, these findings advance niche theory about palms and may be used for generating better predictive models of palm species distributions and for experimental studies that search for the physiological mechanisms underlying inter‐ and infra‐specific trade‐offs along edaphic gradients.
Identification of two mutations that cause defects in the ligninolytic system through an efficient forward genetics in the white‐rot agaricomycete Pleurotus ostreatus
Authors: Nakazawa Takehito , Izuno Ayako , Kodera Rina , Miyazaki Yasumasa , Sakamoto Masahiro , Isagi Yuji , Honda Yoichi
Published: November 2016

White‐rot fungi play an important role in the global carbon cycle because they are the species that almost exclusively biodegrade wood lignin in nature. Lignin peroxidases (LiPs), manganese peroxidases (MnPs) and versatile peroxidases (VPs) are considered key players in the ligninolytic system. Apart from LiPs, MnPs and VPs, however, only few other factors involved in the ligninolytic system have been investigated using molecular genetics, implying the existence of unidentified elements. By combining classical genetic techniques with next‐generation sequencing technology, they successfully showed an efficient forward genetics approach to identify mutations causing defects in the ligninolytic system of the white‐rot fungus Pleurotus ostreatus. In this study, they identified two genes – chd1 and wtr1 – mutations in which cause an almost complete loss of Mn2+‐dependent peroxidase activity. The chd1 gene encodes a putative chromatin modifier, and wtr1 encodes an agaricomycete‐specific protein with a putative DNA‐binding domain. The chd1‐1 mutation and targeted disruption of wtr1 hamper the ability of P. ostreatus to biodegrade wood lignin. Examination of the effects of the aforementioned mutation and disruption on the expression of certain MnP/VP genes suggests that a complex mechanism underlies the ligninolytic system in P. ostreatus.