bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The case of Amazon.com: towards a conceptual framework of online customer service experience (OCSE) using the emerging consensus technique (ECT)
Authors: Klaus Philipp
Published: September 2013

Purpose

– The concept of online customer service experience (OCSE) has recently received great interest from academia and businesses alike. Despite the belief that providing superb online experiences will influence customers' online buying behavior, most of the research focuses solely on the controllable factors of the online experience. This paper seeks to address these issues.

Design/methodology/approach

– Using the means-end approach in 62 semi-structured interviews with a representative sample from three countries, and a new tool to elicit behavioral aggregation, the emerging consensus technique (ECT), the author conceptualizes online customer service experience (OCSE).

Findings

– The study identifies functionality and psychological factors as the two main dimensions of online customer service experience. Functionality encompasses the technical attributes of the web vendor, namely the sub-dimensions usability, product presence, communication, social presence, and interactivity. Psychological factors consist of the attitudinal based sub-dimensions context familiarity, trust, and value for money. The conceptual model extends and expands existing literature on online customer service experience models. In particular, the study identifies that the individual importance of the online customer service experience dimensions differ depending on which stage of the experience, namely prior to, during, or after the transaction the customer is in. Moreover, the study reveals the presence of one previously unexplored key component of the online customer service experience: social presence.

Originality/value

– Based on its empirical findings, this article proposes a dynamic conceptual framework of online customer service experience, which incorporates the individual dimensions of the online experience according to the stage of the customer journey. Using and validating a new tool of extracting elicit behavioral aggregation, the ECT, the study conceptualizes the online customer service experience, exploring previously unexplored key dimensions of OCSE. The model highlights the dynamic nature of OCSE by exploring the relative importance of each identified dimension in relation to the stage of the interaction, i.e. before, during, or after the transaction/purchase, between the customer and the service provider.
Firm size and the voluntary disclosure of nonfinancial information by private versus public firm managers
Authors: E. Karim Khondkar , Pinsker Robert , Robin Ashok
Published: September 2013

Purpose

– The specific purpose of this study is to understand how firm size and public/private affiliation (employment status) affect voluntary disclosure decisions concerning quantitatively immaterial nonfinancial information. Although the prior disclosure literature is large and has considered a variety of factors including size and to a lesser degree employment status, this study offers a new perspective by considering both factors in the context of qualitative materiality.

Design/methodology/approach

– This paper presents 136 manager participants with 24 cues representing nonfinancial, realistic business events and solicits their disclosure judgments. The cues are adapted from Pinsker et al. and contain information that does not meet widely-accepted quantitative thresholds for disclosure (e.g. 5 percent of net income), yet were identified by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) as more likely to be material. This paper uses a median split of total assets and total revenues to determine “large” and “small” firms. Managers' judgments are measured in an own-firm setting (The context is their current employer, which can be public or private.).

Findings

– This paper finds that disclosure is positively linked to firm size, but this paper do not find an employer status effect. Additional testing reveals that private firm managers are sensitive to SEC oversight and other external, competitive pressures, suggesting that they face mimetic pressures to behave like their public firm counterparts. In sum, their findings contribute significantly to the disclosure, strategic management, institutional theory and judgment-and-decision-making (JDM) literatures.

Originality/value

– Although there is a vast literature on public firm managers' voluntary disclosure behavior (mostly involving large firms), there is little research regarding the voluntary disclosure behavior of small or large private firm managers involving nonfinancial information.
Competition, corporate governance, ownership structure and risk reporting
Authors: Said Mokhtar Ekramy , Mellett Howard
Published: September 2013

Purpose

– This study aims to measure the extent of mandatory and voluntary risk reporting and investigate the impact of competition, corporate governance and ownership structure on risk reporting practices in annual reports of Egyptian companies.

Design/methodology/approach

– A number of theoretical perspectives including proprietary cost, agency theory, stakeholder theory, political cost, signalling theory and legitimacy theory are used to derive research hypotheses and identify the potential determinants of risk reporting practices in the annual reports of Egyptian companies. The annual reports of 105 listed companies for 2007 were examined to measure the extent of risk reporting and examine potential determinants of risk reporting. An unweighted disclosure index, based on Egyptian Accounting Standards (EAS) 25, has been used to measure the level of mandatory risk reporting while content analysis – sentence approach – is used in coding voluntary risk reporting. Multiple regression analysis is used in evaluating the relationships between competition, corporate governance, ownership structure and risk reporting.

Findings

– The results indicate a low level of compliance with mandatory risk reporting requirements. A low extent of voluntary risk reporting with a tendency to report more backward-looking and qualitative risk disclosure compared to forward-looking and quantitative risk disclosure is indicated. Agency theory and proprietary cost provide explanations for the variation of risk reporting in corporate annual reports. It is suggested that competition, role duality, board size, ownership concentration and auditor type are key determinants of risk reporting practices in Egypt.

Research limitations/implications

– The scoring and classification process suffers from inherent judgment limitations and subjectivity, which cannot be entirely eradicated. The study applies a cross-sectional approach and examines risk reporting practice and its determinants at one point in time. However, longitudinal research may provide a better understanding of risk reporting practices of Egyptian companies. The use of only one proxy of competition is one of the limitations of this study.

Practical implications

– The findings regarding mandatory disclosure level and nature of voluntary risk disclosure should be on concern to regulatory authorities and standard-setters.

Originality/value

– The study aims to contribute to risk reporting research through addressing not only mandatory but also voluntary risk reporting in emerging economies in general and Egypt in particular. In addition, examining the impact of competition on risk reporting is a main contribution of this study.
Are big city businesses more profitable than other firms?
Authors: Ruland William
Published: September 2013

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to focus upon the financial performance of firms that maintain headquarters in the largest cities and firms based in smaller metropolitan areas. Big city locations offer numerous opportunities. On the other hand, maintaining headquarters in big cities is more costly than in less congested locations and the opportunities for distractions tend to be higher. A third alternative is that location does not matter.

Design/methodology/approach

– The study, the first of its type, applies a multivariate analysis to a large sample of Compustat firms. The analysis tests for the industry-adjusted return on investment as a function of population density.

Findings

– The results, which are both statistically and economically significant, show that firms headquartered in smaller cities tend to outperform those located in major business centers.

Practical implications

– These results suggest at least two implications for financial managers. One is that headquarters location should be considered as a key element of financial management strategy. The second is that businesses should very carefully consider decisions to move headquarters to the very largest cities.

Originality/value

– Theory suggests that business success should increase with the size of the city. This paper, the first large-sample examination of major US firms, shows that businesses with headquarters in smaller locations tend to enjoy greater financial success.
Statistical thinking in the quality movement ±25 years
Authors: Yvonne Coleman Shirley
Published: September 2013

Purpose

– Statistical thinking is an intrinsic part of the quality movement. Helped by initiatives such as Six Sigma, there is greater acceptance of the importance of data analysis and a general trend towards embracing numeracy. It is timely to review the emergence of statistical thinking and consider the good and bad features resulting from its application in a wide range of sectors.

Design/methodology/approach

– The paper first defines statistical thinking and justifies its importance to the quality movement. The achievements from the past 25 years are then considered sector by sector along with their collateral damage.

Findings

– The following lessons are proposed for the next 25 years: statistical thinking needs to expand its remit to include more aspects of analytical thinking becoming what may be called wider statistical thinking; statistical thinkers have ground-breaking ideas and need to communicate with managers at the top of the hierarchy to ensure that both the thinkers and the ideas have the influence they deserve; whilst learning from past successes, the quality movement must be mindful of knock-on effects and nurse a holistic viewpoint; expect the unexpected.

Originality/value

– Statistical thinking is gaining more prominence in all sectors and is used within the quality movement to make major progress as well as major upsets. It is important that the quality movement treads carefully and makes sure that society as a whole benefits from the ever increasing drive for improvement.
A comparison of two systemic family therapy reflecting team interventions
Authors: Mitchell Pippa , Rhodes Paul , Wallis Andrew , Wilson Val
Published: September 2013

This research focused on exploring the experience of fifteen families who attended a first session of systemic family therapy, with reflecting team feedback being delivered in two different formats. In the first the interviewer consulted with the reflecting team alone after the therapy session while the family took a break and then provided feedback directly to the family. In the second the interviewer and family exchanged rooms straight after the session and the reflecting team provided feedback in conversation with each other. Families in both conditions of systemic family therapy described how the presence of a team led to a heightening of their emotion in session, a factor that served to effect a change in family interaction. For families in the first condition the consultation break reduced these intense emotions and provided a unique opportunity to continue independent discussions outside the therapy room. In contrast, those in the second condition reported that their experience was more exciting but it made information retention difficult. For this reason, the use of a therapeutic letter with this group was a crucial aspect of follow‐up intervention.

Practitioner points

Families see systemic family therapy reflecting teams as helpful, providing an opportunity for new conversations, perspectives and behaviour to emerge.

These benefits can be maximized by providing a detailed descriptions of the process beforehand, minimizing phone calls from the reflecting team to the interviewer and providing a break between interview and feedback.

When using Andersen's (1991) model, following‐up sessions with a therapeutic letter can enhance the retention of information.
Thematic review of Family Therapy Journals 2012
Authors: Carr Alan
Published: September 2013

In this article the contents of the principal English‐language family therapy journals, and key family therapy articles published in other journals in 2012 are reviewed under these headings: therapy processes in the treatment of child‐focused problems, autism, adolescent substance use, human immunodeficiency virus, depression and grief, fragile families, mental health recovery, medical family therapy, family business and systemic practice, couple therapy, intimate partner violence, key issues in theory and practice, research, diversity, international perspectives, interviews, and deaths.
XBRL for Financial Reporting: Evidence on Italian GAAP versus IFRS
Authors: Valentinetti Diego , Rea Michele A.
Published: September 2013

The systematic adoption of the eXtensible Business Reporting Language (XBRL) for financial reporting represents a great challenge. Worldwide, a large number of regulators are making an effort to promote the adoption of this standard to simplify and enhance the communication of financial information. This requires the definition of well‐structured taxonomies that can standardize and accommodate the content of financial reports prepared by firms. This study aims to analyze the regulator‐led adoption of XBRL for financial reporting. It examines the XBRL taxonomies used by Italian firms to reflect their financial reporting under rule‐based Italian GAAP and principles‐based International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS). We compare the alignment of the Italian GAAP taxonomy and the IFRS taxonomy with Italian companies' financial statements and find two different levels of fit. The results offer useful insights for regulators and policy makers in prescribing or establishing appropriate taxonomies. We illustrate the potential impacts of the different taxonomies on the quality of financial reporting in terms of comparability and potential loss of information.
Late preterm birth is associated with short‐term morbidity but not with adverse neurodevelopmental and physical outcomes at 1 year
Authors: Hughes Alice , Greisen Gorm , Arce Joan‐Carles , Thornton Steven
Published: September 2013

We compared the neonatal and infant outcomes at one year (Bayley mental and psychomotor development index, and physical growth) of babies who were (n = 63) or were not (n = 100) delivered prior to 37 weeks in women admitted in threatened late preterm labor (34–35+6 weeks) with a cervix ≤15 mm. The women were part of a clinical trial to investigate the tocolytic effect of the oxytocin antagonist barusiban. Babies born late preterm (34–36+6 weeks) had a significantly increased risk of short‐term morbidity (hepatobiliary disorders, respiratory disorders, metabolic disorders, nervous system disorders, infection; p < 0.05 for each) compared with those born at term, but there were no significant differences in the neurodevelopmental and physical outcomes at one year (p > 0.05 for both one‐year outcomes).
An exploratory investigation: are driving simulators appropriate to teach pre‐driving skills to young adults with intellectual disabilities?
Authors: Brooks Johnell O. , Mossey Mary E. , Tyler Peg , Collins James C.
Published: September 2013

Accessible summary

There were many driving education studies with adults with intellectual disabilities (ID) in the 1960s and 1970s, but since, very little research has been carried out.

This study explored using an interactive driving simulator for teaching adults with intellectual disabilities to learn pre‐driving skills (lane keeping and speed maintenance).

The simulator succeeded in rapid identification of the drivers' capabilities and limitations, providing skill practise that would be unsafe on roadways, creating a fun, effective and flexible learning environment and highlighting the most appropriate areas for future research.

Research examining driver training for young adults with intellectual disabilities has been limited since the 1970s. The current pilot and exploratory study investigated teaching pre‐driving skills (i.e. lane keeping and speed maintenance) to young adults with intellectual disabilities using an interactive driving simulator to provide dynamic and immediate feedback to participants as well as quantifiable data to researchers and educators. Four students from a post‐secondary transition course for students with intellectual disabilities (age 21–23) with an average full‐scale IQ of 71.5 (range 64–76) participated. Participants practised their pre‐driving skills (lane keeping and speed maintenance rather than complex driving environments) on a series of driving courses as well as a coordinated muscle movement activity related to driving for 1 h a day, 5 days a week. After 27 days, two of the four participants significantly improved their lane keeping and speed maintenance skills, while two participants failed to demonstrate steady improvement.
The influence of customized abutments and custom metal abutments on the presence of the interproximal papilla at implants inserted in single‐unit gaps: a 1‐year prospective clinical study
Authors: Borges Tiago , Lima Tiago , Carvalho Ágata , Dourado Catarina , Carvalho Vasco
Published: September 2013

Objectives

To assess and compare the papilla presence mesially and distally to dental implants restored with customized abutments and custom metal abutments in the anterior maxilla.

Material and methods

Thirty‐eight patients receiving 38 single‐tooth implants, restored with 26 customized abutments and 12 custom metal abutments in the anterior maxillary region were enrolled in this study. The cases where did not existed contact point were excluded. Presence/absence of the interproximal papilla, inter‐tooth–implant distance (ITD) and distance from the base of the contact point to dental crest bone of adjacent tooth (CPB) were accessed. Global P‐values were determined for changes in CPB and papilla score over time (P < 0.05).

Results

Thirty‐six patients with 36 implants were available for the 12‐month follow‐up. The abutments and reconstruction survival rate was 100% with no fracture or crown loss. A mean mesial CPB of 5.71 ± 1.54 mm and distal CPB of 4.01 ± 1.73 mm were assessed in the customized abutment group for an overall mean papilla presence of 1.69 ± 0.46. A mean mesial CPB of 5.41 ± 1.31 mm and distal CPB of 4.77 ± 1.21 mm were assessed in the control group for an overall mean papilla presence of 1.08 ± 0.65.

Conclusions

The restoration of single‐implants using computer‐assisted design/computer‐assisted manufacturing abutments appears to help maintaining a regular papillary filling although the variations of the implant positioning or the restoration/teeth relation.
Patient satisfaction and esthetic outcome after immediate placement and provisionalization of single‐tooth implants involving a definitive individual abutment
Authors: Hartlev Jens , Kohberg Peter , Ahlmann Søren , Andersen Niels T. , Schou Søren , Isidor Flemming
Published: September 2013

Objectives

To assess patient satisfaction and esthetic outcome after immediate placement and provisionalization of single‐tooth implants involving a definitive individual abutment and a provisional crown followed by later placement of a definitive crown.

Materials and methods

In private practice, a single‐tooth implant was placed immediately after tooth extraction in the esthetic zone of 54 patients. A definitive individual abutment and a provisional crown were mounted in the same visit. The definitive crown was placed after a mean period of 7 months. After a mean follow‐up period of 33 months, the subjective and professional evaluation of the total implant treatment, peri‐implant soft tissues, and implant crown were assessed on a 10‐cm visual analog scale (VAS). The professional esthetic treatment outcome was also evaluated using pink esthetic score (PES), white esthetic score (WES), and total score of PES/WES.

Results

The evaluation of total implant treatment, peri‐implant soft tissues, and implant crown demonstrated a significantly higher subjective than professional score for all 3 parameters (P < 0.001), for example, for the overall treatment, the mean scores were 9.4 and 7.0, respectively. A significant positive correlation was revealed between the professional VAS scores and the PESs and WESs.

Conclusions

Immediate placement and provisionalization of single‐tooth implants involving a definitive individual abutment and provisional crown followed by later placement of a definitive crown demonstrated high subjective and professional satisfaction. Generally, the professionals seem to be more critical than the patients. A strong correlation was observed between the professional VAS scores and the PES and WES scoring systems.
Rejection after conversion to a proliferation signal inhibitor in chronic heart transplantation
Authors: González‐Vílchez Francisco , Vázquez de Prada José A. , Paniagua María J. , Almenar Luis , Mirabet Sonia , Gómez‐Bueno Manuel , Díaz‐Molina Beatriz , Arizón Jose M. , Delgado Juan , Pérez‐Villa Félix , Crespo‐Leiro María G. , Martínez‐Dolz Luis , Roig Eulalia , Segovia Javier , Lambert José L. , Lopez‐Granados Amador , Escribano Pilar , Farrero Marta
Published: September 2013

We sought to determine the incidence, risk factors, and consequences of acute rejection (AR) after conversion from a calcineurin inhibitor (CNI) to a proliferation signal inhibitor (PSI) in maintenance heart transplantation. Relevant clinical data were retrospectively obtained for 284 long‐term heart transplant recipients from nine centers in whom CNIs were replaced with a PSI (sirolimus or everolimus) between October 2001 and March 2009. The rejection rate at one yr was 8.3%, stabilizing to 2% per year thereafter. The incidence rate after conversion (4.9 per 100 patient‐years) was significantly higher than that observed on CNI therapy in the pre‐conversion period (2.2 per 100 patient‐years). By multivariate analysis, rejection risk was associated with a history of late AR prior to PSI conversion, early conversion (<5 yr) after transplantation and age <50 yr at the time of conversion. Use of mycophenolate mofetil was a protective factor. Post‐conversion rejection did not significantly influence the evolution of left ventricular ejection fraction, renal function, or mortality during further follow‐up. Conversion to a CNI‐free immunosuppression based on a PSI results in an increased risk of AR. Awareness of the clinical determinants of post‐conversion rejection could help to refine the current PSI conversion strategies.
Clear cell acanthoma with changes of eccrine syringofibroadenoma: reactive change or clue to etiology?
Authors: Shalin Sara C. , Rinaldi Carmen , Horn Thomas D.
Published: September 2013

We observed two patients with solitary lesions showing features of clear cell acanthoma with underlying eccrine syringofibroadenoma‐like changes. The pathogenesis of these entities has been debated since their original descriptions, with most recent literature suggesting that both may represent reactive phenomena rather than true neoplasms. Our observation prompted us to perform a retrospective review of clear cell acanthoma cases to determine the frequency of such associated eccrine syringofibroadenoma changes. Of 47 examined cases of clear cell acanthoma, 9 (19%) showed associated changes of eccrine syringofibroadenoma. Immunohistochemical evaluation performed on a subset of cases identified similar but slightly divergent differentiation patterns within the lesions. While epithelial membrane antigen and PAS expression were similar in both components (although slightly different in intensity), the regions resembling eccrine syringofibroadenoma displayed additional immunoreactivities, supporting the presence of two distinct components. We have found that the concurrence of clear cell acanthoma with syringofibroadenomatous changes is more frequent than generally appreciated and suggest that these entities may share derivation from the eccrine apparatus.
Gender Equality Policies in Rwanda: Public Relations or Real Transformations?
Authors: Debusscher Petra , Ansoms An
Published: September 2013

This article examines Rwanda's gender equality policies with the intention of contributing to the ongoing debate in the literature on the meaning of gender equality initiatives in authoritarian states. The article evaluates the transformative potential of Rwanda's gender equality policies with reference to deep‐rooted societal norms and practices within which gender inequalities are embedded. To this end, the article draws on in‐depth interviews conducted in Rwanda with a range of stakeholders, as well as on documentary research. It explores the factors informing the Rwandan commitment to gender equality, and the positive developments this has brought about, before identifying five trends that threaten the transformative potential of Rwandan gender equality policies. The authors conclude that while a strong political will and target‐driven policies offer opportunities for promoting gender equality, the transformative potential is jeopardized by the dominance of an underlying economic rationale; the neglect of the ‘invisible labour’ of women; the formalistic implementation of gender policies and their focus on quantitative results; the limited scope for civil society voices to influence policy; and the lack of grassroots participation.
A reinforcement learning approach to competitive ordering and pricing problem
Authors: Dogan Ibrahim , Güner Ali R.
Published: September 2013

This study analyses simultaneous ordering and pricing decisions for retailers working in a multi‐retailer competitive environment for an infinite horizon. Retailers compete for the same market where the market demand is uncertain. The customer selects the winning agent (retailer) in each term on the basis of random utility maximization, which depends primarily on retailer price and random error. The complexity of the problem is increased by competitiveness, necessity for simultaneous decisions and uncertainty in the nature of increases, and is not conducive to examination using standard analytical methods. Therefore, we model the problem using reinforcement learning (RL), which is founded on stochastic dynamic programming and agent‐based simulations. We analyse the effects of competitiveness and performance of RL on three different scenarios: a monopolistic case where one retailer employing a RL agent maximizes its profit, a duopolistic case where one retailer employs RL and another utilizes adaptive pricing and ordering policies, and a duopolistic case where both retailers employ RL.
Late presentation to HIV/AIDS testing, treatment or continued care: clarifying the use of CD4 evaluation in the consensus definition
Authors: MacCarthy S , Bangsberg DR , Fink G , Reich M , Gruskin S
Published: September 2013

Objectives

Late presentation to HIV/AIDS services compromises treatment outcomes and misses opportunities for biomedical and behavioural prevention. There has been significant heterogeneity in how the term ‘late presentation’ (LP) has been used in the literature. In 2011, a consensus definition was reached using CD4 counts to define and measure late presenters and, while it is useful for clinical care, the consensus definition has several important limitations that we discuss in this article.

Methods

Using the spectrum of engagement in HIV care presented by Gardner and colleagues, this article highlights issues and opportunities associated with use of the consensus definition.

Results

The consensus definition is limited by three principal factors: (1) the CD4 count threshold of 350 cells/μL is being increasingly questioned as the biomedical justification grows for earlier initiation of treatment; (2) CD4 evaluations are conducted at multiple services providing HIV care; thus it remains unclear to which service the patient is presenting late; and (3) the limited availability of CD4 evaluation restricts its use in determining the prevalence of LP in many settings.

Conclusions

The consensus definition is useful because it describes the level of disease progression and allows for consistent evaluation of the prevalence and determinants of LP. Suggestions are provided for improving the application of the consensus definition in future research.
Revascularization-Outcome Paradox: Not Only Time and Collaterals Status, but Also Complete Recanalization Contribute to Good Neurological Outcome
Authors: Cohen José E. , Leker Ronen R.
Published: September 2013

The rate of successful recanalization in endovascular trials has not always mirrored the rate of good clinical outcomes, creating a revascularization-outcome paradox. In early experience with the new generation of stent-based thrombectomy devices, 45–77% of patients have achieved good 90-day outcomes despite treatment up to eight-hours after symptom onset. These rates of good functional outcome are clearly higher than those previously reported with other endovascular strategies. We propose that among the factors influencing this difference is the far higher complete recanalization rate and the high ratio of Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction 3/Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction 2 recanalization obtained with stent retrievers in comparison with previous generation mechanical thrombectomy devices. Recently, we achieved Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction 3 in 94% of patients and Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction 2 in 6% in a series of patients with acute middle cerebral artery occlusions who were managed with stent-thrombectomy within eight-hours of symptom onset. Good outcomes were achieved in 77%. Extent of recanalization appears to interact with time and collateral supply in determining clinical outcomes.
STICH 2: Does Decompression Have a Role in Superficial Intracerebral Hematoma?
Authors: Muir Keith W.
Published: September 2013

The recently published second Surgical Trial in Intracerebral Haemorrhage (STICH-2) tested whether surgical evacuation of superficial spontaneous intracerebral haemorrhage was effective at reducing death and disability at 6 months after onset. Participants were randomised to a policy of early surgical intervention or initial medical management alone within 48 hours of symptom onset. After enrolling 601 patients across 78 centres in 27 countries, intention to treat analysis showed no difference in outcome. Time to intervention was a median of 26 hours after symptom onset in the surgical arm, and craniotomy accounted for 98% of all surgical procedures. The interpretation of the overall neutral result is confounded by a high proportion of crossovers from the medical management arm of the study, predominantly of more severely affected patients. Further analysis may clarify whether decompressive surgery late after superficial intracerebral haemorrhage has any role in management.
What Can Migration Policymakers Learn From Legal Frameworks on National Minorities? National Minorities and Migration in Armenia and Belarus
Authors: Ulasiuk Iryna
Published: September 2013

The dissolution of the USSR resulted in massive depopulation of the republics and unprecedented migration flows, including national minorities. Citizens of a once indivisible country were suddenly divided into “those of our kind” (natives) and “outsiders” (national minorities/ immigrants). The latter were often not guaranteed citizenship and were denied basic rights. Many national minorities became forced migrants and refugees, leaving neighbouring states because of discrimination or fearing violence. This article focuses primarily on the interconnection of minority and migration issues, two topics which are often discussed separately. It investigates the interrelation between migration and the minority regimes adopted by Armenia and Belarus, and the extent to which certain policies and rights for national minorities can be meaningfully extended to new migrant minorities. It also asks what lessons can be learnt from the treatment of national minorities as far as future migration legislation is concerned.

Policy Implications

Migrants' participation policy is always based on implicit political models of participation that should always be made explicit and examined before implementation.

There is always a plurality of political preferences, for different models of participation in the migrant population, that should be explored and accommodated.

The number of associations in existence should not be used as an indicator of a strong civil society as much as it is at present.
Progression of periodontal inflammation in adolescents is associated with increased number of Porphyromonas gingivalis,Prevotella intermedia,Tannerella forsythensis, and Fusobacterium nucleatum
Authors: Yang Ning‐Yan , Zhang Quan , Li Jin‐Lu , Yang Sheng‐Hui , Shi Qing
Published: September 2013

Objective

The study aims to evaluate the change of related subgingival periodontopathogens among different stage of gingivitis in adolescent and assess the relationship between periodontopathogens and the progression of periodontal inflammation.

Methods

A total of 77 subgingival plaque samples from 35 adolescent individuals were divided into three groups including gingivitis group (mild, 15 samples; moderate, 16 samples; severe, 15 samples), chronic periodontitis group (15 samples) and healthy group (15 samples). Real‐time PCR was used to quantitate Porphyromonas gingivalis, Prevotella intermedia, Tannerella forsythensis, and Fusobacterium nucleatum in subgingival plaque samples.

Results

All species, except for F. nucleatum, were detected in samples from gingivitis and periodontitis groups in significantly greater number than in those from healthy group (P < 0.05). In gingivitis groups, the number of P. gingivalis, T. forsythensis, and F. nucleatum in moderate and severe gingivitis groups was significantly higher than in mild gingivitis group (P < 0.05). After merging moderate gingivitis and severe gingivitis groups into moderate‐to‐severe gingivitis group, the four periodontopathogens were detected in samples from periodontitis group in significantly greater number than in those from moderate‐to‐severe gingivitis group (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

The number of P. gingivalis, P. intermedia, T. forsythensis, and F. nucleatum in subgingival plaque increases with progression of periodontal inflammation in adolescents. Examination of periodontopathogens number in adolescents may be of some value for monitoring of periodontal disease development.
Predicting Periphyton Cover Frequency Distributions across New Zealand's Rivers
Authors: Snelder Ton H. , Booker Doug J. , Quinn John M. , Kilroy Cathy
Published: September 2013

Regression models of mean and mean annual maximum (MAM) cover were derived for two categories of periphyton cover (filaments and mats) using 22 years of monthly monitoring data from 78 river sites across New Zealand. Explanatory variables were derived from observations of water quality variables, hydrology, shade, bed sediment grain size, temperature, and solar radiation. The root mean square errors of these models were large (75‐95% of the mean of the estimated values). The at‐site frequency distributions of periphyton cover were approximated by the exponential distribution, which has the mean cover as its single parameter. Independent predictions of cover distributions at all sites were calculated using the mean predicted by the regression model and the theoretical exponential distribution. The probability that cover exceeds specified thresholds and estimates of MAM cover, based on the predicted distributions, had large uncertainties (~80‐100%) at the site scale. However, predictions aggregated by classes of an environmental classification accurately predicted the proportion of sites for which cover exceeded nominated criteria in the classes. The models are useful for assessing broad‐scale patterns in periphyton cover and for estimating changes in cover with changes in nutrients, hydrological regime, and light.
Assessing the Hydrologic and Water Quality Benefits of a Network of Stormwater Control Measures in a SE U.S. Piedmont Watershed
Authors: Gagrani Vijaya , Diemer John A. , Karl Jarrod J. , Allan Craig J.
Published: September 2013

The hydrologic and water quality benefits of an existing engineered stormwater control measures (SCMs) network, along with the alternative stormwater control simulations, were assessed in the rapidly urbanizing Beaverdam Creek watershed located in SE U.S. Piedmont region through the use of distributed Model of Urban Stormwater Improvement Conceptualization stormwater model. When compared with predevelopment conditions, the postdevelopment watershed simulation without SCMs indicated a 2 times increase in total runoff volume, 3 times average increase in peak flow for 1.5‐3.2 cm 6‐h storm events, and 30 times, 12 times, and 3 times higher total suspended solids (TSS), total phosphorous (TP), and total nitrogen (TN) loadings, respectively. The existing SCMs network, in comparison with the postdeveloped watershed without SCMs, reduced the average peak flow rates for 1.5‐3.2 cm 6‐h storm events by 70%, lowered the annual runoff volume by 3%, and lowered TSS, TP, TN annual loads by 57, 51, and 10%, respectively. A backyard rain garden simulation resulted in minimal additional reduction in TSS (1.6%), TP (0.4%), and TN (4%). Model simulations indicate that mandatory 85% TSS and 70% TP annual load reductions in comparison with the predevelopment levels would require the diversion of runoff from at least 70% of the contributing drainage areas runoff into additional offline bioretention basins.
Analyses of genetic diversity in five Canadian dairy breeds using pedigree data
Authors: Melka M.G. , Stachowicz K. , Miglior F. , Schenkel F.S.
Published: September 2013

The issue of loss of animal genetic diversity, worldwide in general and in Canada in particular, has become noteworthy. The objective of this study was to analyze the trend in within‐breed genetic diversity and identify the major causes of loss of genetic diversity in five Canadian dairy breeds. Pedigrees were analyzed using the software EVA (evolutionary algorithm) and CFC (contribution, inbreeding, coancestry), and a FORTRAN package for pedigree analysis suited for large populations (PEDIG). The average rate of inbreeding in the last generation analyzed (2003 to 2007) was 0.93, 1.07, 1.26, 1.09 and 0.80% for Ayrshire, Brown Swiss, Canadienne, Guernsey and Milking Shorthorn, respectively, and the corresponding estimated effective population sizes were 54, 47, 40, 46 and 66, respectively. Based on coancestry coefficients, the estimated effective population sizes in the last generation were 62, 76, 43, 61 and 76, respectively. The estimated percentage of genetic diversity lost within each breed over the last four decades was 6, 7, 11, 8 and 5%, respectively. The relative proportion of genetic diversity lost due to random genetic drift in the five breeds ranged between 59.3% and 89.7%. The results indicate that each breed has lost genetic diversity over time and that the loss is gaining momentum due to increasing rates of inbreeding and reduced effective population sizes. Therefore, strategies to decrease rate of inbreeding and increase the effective population size are advised.
Marked Suppression of Pulmonary Vein Firing After Circumferential Pulmonary Vein Isolation in Patients with Paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation: Is Pulmonary Vein Firing an Epiphenomenon?
Authors: JIANG RU‐HONG , JIANG CHEN‐YANG , SHENG XIA , ZHANG ZU‐WEN , SUN YA‐XUN , LIU QIANG , FU GUO‐SHENG , PO SUNNY S.
Published: September 2013

Is Pulmonary Vein Firing an Epiphenomenon?

Introduction

Rapid firing in pulmonary veins (PVs) is a leading cause of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation. We hypothesized that PV firing (PV‐F) should continue after circumferential PV isolation (CPVI) because the PV tissue responsible for PV‐F remains intact.

Methods and Results

In Group‐1 (n = 92), isoproterenol (ISP) and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) were co‐administered to provoke PV‐F before and after CPVI. The site of rapid focal discharge that initiated atrial fibrillation (AF) defined PV‐F versus non‐PV‐F. Additional 17 patients with PV‐F induced by ISP+ATP before CPVI were enrolled into Group‐2 and various pacing maneuvers were used in conjunction to ISP+ATP to provoke PV‐F after CPVI. In Group‐1, AF was induced in 47/81 (58.0%) and 16/88 (18.2%) patients before and after CPVI, respectively (P < 0.01). Before CPVI, 43/47 (91.5%) of the rapid firing originated from PV. After successful CPVI, 88/92 patients were in sinus rhythm and non‐PV‐F was induced in 14/88 patients. PV‐F was induced in 2/88 patients, which was eliminated by ganglionated plexus ablation outside the CPVI line. In Group‐2, various pacing maneuvers with ISP+ATP only induced PV‐F in 1/17 patients after CPVI.

Conclusion

Marked suppression of PV‐F after CPVI strongly suggests that the real source of PV‐F is located in the atrium. PV‐F may be an epiphenomenon.
hERG Inhibitors with Similar Potency But Different Binding Kinetics Do Not Pose the Same Proarrhythmic Risk: Implications for Drug Safety Assessment
Authors: DI VEROLI GIOVANNI Y. , DAVIES MARK R. , ZHANG HENGGUI , ABI‐GERGES NAJAH , BOYETT MARK R.
Published: September 2013

Drug Mode of Action and hERG‐Related Safety

Introduction

Since the discovery of the link that exists between drug‐induced hERG inhibition and Torsade de Pointes (TdP), extreme attention has been given to avoid new drugs inhibiting this channel. hERG inhibition is routinely screened for in new drugs and, typically, IC50 values are compared to projected plasma concentrations to define a safety margin.

Methods and Results

We aimed to show that drugs with similar hERG potency are not uniformly pro‐arrhythmic—this depends on the drug binding kinetics and mode of action (trapped or not) rather than the IC50 value only. We used a mathematical model of hERG and its related encoded current IKr to simulate drug binding in different configurations. Expression systems mimicking the screening process were first investigated. hERG model was then incorporated into a canine action potential (AP) and tissue model to study the impact of drug binding configurations on AP and pseudo‐ECG (QT interval prolongation). Our data show that: (1) trapped and not trapped configurations and different binding kinetics could be identified during hERG screening; (2) slow binding, not trapped drugs, induced less AP prolongation and minimal QT interval prolongation (4.7%) at a concentration equal to the IC50 whereas maximal pro‐arrhythmic risk was observed for trapped drugs at the same concentration (QT interval prolongation, 23.1%).

Conclusion

Our study demonstrates the need for screening for hERG binding configurations rather than potency alone. It also demonstrates the potential link between hERG, drug mode of action and TdP, and the need to question the current regulatory guidance.
Oestrogen‐Independent Circadian Clock Gene Expression in the Anteroventral Periventricular Nucleus in Female Rats: Possible Role as an Integrator for Circadian and Ovarian Signals Timing the Luteinising Hormone Surge
Authors: Smarr B. L. , Gile J. J. , de la Iglesia H. O.
Published: September 2013

Periodic ovulation in rats, mice and hamsters is the result of a surge in luteinising hormone (LH) that depends on circadian gating signals emerging from the master circadian clock within the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) and rising ovarian oestrogen levels. These two signals converge into the anteroventral periventricular nucleus (AVPV) and lead to the release of kisspeptin, which is responsible for surges of gonadotrophin‐releasing hormone and, in turn, of LH release. How the AVPV integrates circadian and reproductive signals remains unclear. In the present study, we show that the female rat AVPV itself shows circadian oscillations in the expression of the clock genes PER1 and BMAL1, which lie at the core circadian clockwork of mammals. In ovariectomised females treated with oestradiol (E2), these oscillations are in synchrony with the AVPV rhythmic expression of the KISS1 gene and the gene that codes for the arginine‐vasopressin (AVP) receptor AVPr1a. Although clock gene oscillations are independent of oestrogen levels, circadian expression of Kiss1 and Avpr1a (also referred to as V1a) mRNA is blunted and absent, respectively, in ovariectomised animals without E2 replacement. Because AVP is considered to be a critical SCN transmitter to gate the LH surge, our data suggest that there is a circadian oscillator located in the AVPV, and that such a putative oscillator could, in an oestrogen‐dependent manner, time the sensitivity to circadian signals emerging from the SCN and the release of kisspeptin.
The Sexual Function Questionnaire's Medical Impact Scale (SFQ-MIS): Validation Among a Sample of First-time Mothers
Authors: Jawed-Wessel Sofia , Schick Vanessa , Herbenick Debby
Published: September 2013

Introduction

Changes in sexual function can be difficult to capture, especially when an attempt is made to assess the effects of pregnancy or childbirth on the sexual function of first-time mothers. Commonly used sexual function measures are limited and fail to account for pregnancy or birth in assessment of function.

Aims

The purpose of this study was to explore the utility of the Sexual Function Questionnaire Medical Impact Scale (SFQ-MIS) in assessing impact of childbirth on sexual function among first-time mothers with infants aged one year or younger.

Methods

A total of 255 women completed a cross-sectional, web-based survey. Exploratory factor analysis was utilized to assess the factor structure of the SFQ-MIS scores in this sample. Variations in SFQ-MIS scores based upon participant characteristics were conducted to further evaluate the SFQ-MIS scores.

Main Outcome Measures

SFQ-MIS score was the primary measure of interest. Factors related to pregnancy and childbirth, such as mode of delivery, infant date of birth, last menstrual period, need for an episiotomy or perineal stitches, breastfeeding status, and score on the Perceived Stress Scale, were also assessed in order to further evaluate the validity and predictive capacity of the SFQ-MIS.

Results

Results indicated one factor that accounted for 58.27% of the variance in impact on sexual function due to childbirth. Cronbach's α coefficient for all five items was acceptable (0.82). Women who were breastfeeding (P < 0.05), those who had received perineal stitches after a vaginal delivery (P < 0.05), and those who reported no sexual activity in the past month (P < 0.001) experienced significantly greater impact than those who were not breastfeeding, those who had not required stitches, and those who had been sexually active in the past month.

Conclusion

The SFQ-MIS appears to be a useful and valid indicator of changes in sexual function following childbirth, such as those related to arousal, desire, and orgasm.