bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of a balanced scorecard-based supplier collaborative performance index
Authors: Hudnurkar Manoj , Rathod Urvashi , Jakhar Suresh Kumar , Vaidya Omkarprasad S.
Published: January 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to design and develop a balanced scorecard (BSC)-based index for quantifying the suitability of suppliers to mature to the next level of collaboration with the buyer company.

Design/methodology/approach

A BSC-based decision framework was developed using factors and factor indicators affecting collaboration with the supplier, using exploratory research. The proposed decision framework was implemented as a real-world case study in an Indian manufacturing organisation by using the Analytic Hierarchy Process. An 11-step methodology was developed to quantify supplier suitability to mature to the next level of collaboration. This is referred to as the “supplier collaborative performance index” (SCPI).

Findings

The proposed decision-making framework helps quantify the extent of collaboration with each supplier. It serves as an index by using the perspectives that are significant for the strategic performance of the buyer company, the factors that affect the collaboration and their specific factor indicators. The initial results of the implementation of the case study were found to be useful in judging supplier suitability in order to mature in their relationship.

Practical implications

A comprehensive BSC-based framework for enhancing relationships with suppliers, SCPI will be instrumental in deciding, managing and improving the level of collaboration with suppliers in manufacturing companies, depending on priorities.

Originality/value

This approach provides a single index to establish the supplier’s suitability to mature to the next level of collaboration with a buyer company. The higher the value of the Collaboration Index for a supplier, the better is the chance to move to the next level of maturity.
Value creation measures: an industry-based study
Authors: Hall John Henry
Published: January 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to identify the shareholder value creation measure best suited to express shareholder value creation for a particular industry.

Design/methodology/approach

The analysis was performed on 192 companies listed on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange, classified into nine different samples or industries. Five shareholder value creation measures were examined, namely market value added (MVA), a market-adjusted stock return, the market-to-book ratio, Tobin’sQratio, and the return on capital employed divided by the cost of equity.

Findings

An analysis of the nine categories of firms led to the identification of different measures that are suited to express value creation. Stock returns did not provide an appropriate value measure. Instead, depending on the specific industry, Tobin’sQratio, MVA, and the market-to-book ratio should be used to measure and express value creation.

Practical implications

For management, the value drivers identified for each industry present a clear indication of industry-specific variables upon which they can focus in operating activities to most efficiently increase shareholder value.

Originality/value

Unlike previous studies that use only one or two different shareholder value creation measures as dependent variables, this study uses five different value creation measures. Another contribution of this study is the compilation of a unique set of value drivers that explain shareholder value creation separately for each of the nine different categories of firms.
Investigation of employers’ performance expectations for new IT graduates in individual and team work settings for software development
Authors: Akman Ibrahim , Turhan Cigdem
Published: January 2018

Purpose

In general, software development work environments involve many different tasks and have high demands on efficiency and quality of performance at both individual and team levels, which depend on the competencies of employees. However, the literature does not provide satisfactory evidence as for the characteristics and competencies of individuals. Especially, the employers’ expectations of new graduates have not been investigated in detail for different work environments. The purpose of this paper is to examine employers’ expectancies regarding technical, personal and educational competencies among IT-graduated employees to provide a comparison between individual and team work settings.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey approach was used for this purpose, and the research model was tested using multiple regression.

Findings

The results revealed that significant diversity exists in individual and team work settings regarding employers’ expectations for new graduates’ competencies in terms of adapting to new software development methods and approaches, using time effectively and experience gained in undergraduate projects.

Originality/value

The results of this study will yield insight to computer-related departments in curriculum development by providing a comparison between the varying competencies required in individual and team work settings from the employer’s perspective. In the long run, the aim is to meet employers’ demands of the new graduates’ competencies, resulting in better individual and team performances in information technology companies, thereby leading to successful software development.
Information asymmetry and insider trade profitability in India
Authors: Iqbal Mohammed , Santhakumar Shijin
Published: January 2018

Purpose

This study aims to measure the magnitude of information asymmetry between insiders and outsiders in Indian equity market. The study also investigates the effect of major information sources that affect information asymmetry namely, the informativeness of financial statements, news reports about the company and analyst follow-up.

Design/methodology/approach

Six-month profitability of insider trade was used as the proxy to measure information asymmetry. Fama-MacBeth two-stage regression was used to analyse the effect of information sources upon information asymmetry.

Findings

The results of the analysis demonstrate that in comparison with findings of similar studies the level of information asymmetry is comparatively high in India. On an average, profitable insider traders in India earn 19.28 per cent return than outside investors. Purchase transactions are more profitable than sales transactions, while the size of company and information asymmetry is associated inversely. Further, news and analyst follow-up are inversely associated with information asymmetry whereas informativeness of financial statements has little effect on information asymmetry.

Practical implications

The study have important insights for corporates in insider information management and legal compliance of insiders’ market activities. Results pointing to the requirements of a deeper Regulatory monitoring and stringent legal framework.

Social implications

The result validates the concerns of investor protection against informed trade.

Originality/value

The measurement of information asymmetry using profitability of insider trade is novel in Indian context even though the methodology is often used in the literature.
Interdependence analysis of lean-green implementation challenges: a case of Indian SMEs
Authors: Thanki Shashank J. , Thakkar Jitesh
Published: January 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to identify and analyze the critical success factors (CSFs) behind the successful implementation of lean-green practices in Indian small- and medium-scale enterprises (SMEs).

Design/methodology/approach

The analysis employs two modeling approaches such as interpretive structural modeling (ISM) and interpretive ranking process (IRP) for examining the contextual relationships among the CSFs and ranks them with respect to key lean-green performance areas. A critical review of literature has led to the identification of total 25 CSFs for lean-green implementation. The list is reduced to 18 most relevant CSFs for the context of Indian SMEs based on experts’ (from industry and academia) opinions. The ISM is utilized to develop ten-level hierarchical model of CSFs. In order to gain greater insights into the nature of variables, the matrix of cross-impact multiplications applied to classification (MICMAC) analysis has been conducted.

Findings

The results show “Government support” as the most significant to the successful lean-green implementation in Indian SMEs and it is placed at the base of the ISM hierarchy. The CSF “Green disposal initiatives” is identified at the top level of the ISM hierarchy. Further, MICMAC analysis identifies five independent variables, eight linkages variables, four dependent variables and none autonomous variable. This may help SME managers to decide about resource priorities toward successful implementation of lean-green initiatives. Subsequently, the IRP has examined the dominance relationship and identifies “Organizational capabilities” as the most significant CSF.

Practical implications

This research intends to enable practitioners in prioritizing and managing strategic and tactical challenges involved in lean-green implementation in Indian SMEs.

Originality/value

This study makes an initial attempt in analyzing factors critical to successful implementation of integrated lean and green manufacturing practices in Indian manufacturing SMEs using ISM. The analysis is further enhanced by applying IRP to rank the CSFs by investigating the influence lean-green integration on various performance measures.
Some entrepreneurship pitfalls
Authors: Wolitzer Philip
Published: January 2018

All of us have at some point thought how great it would be to be the boss of our own destiny and build a new business. For some it's a dream that won't stop until we try. In the old days, all it would have taken was two months’ rent after we built our leasehold improvements. Oh, how times have changed.
Classics in entrepreneurship research: Enduring insights, future promises
Authors: Gupta Vishal K. , Dutta Dev K. , Guo Grace , Javadian Golshan , Jiang Crystal , Osorio Arturo E. , Ozkazanc-Pan Banu
Published: January 2018

Academic inquiry into entrepreneurial phenomena has had a rich history over several decades and continues to evolve. This editorial draws attention to the classics: seminal articles that make profound contributions to the development of an academic field in entrepreneurship studies. We focus on the formative years of entrepreneurship research, specifically the 1970s and 1980s, to identify classics using a key informant approach that surveys members of the journal editorial board. Each nominated classic is introduced and discussed by an editorial board member, with particular focus on research opportunities that may be pursued going forward. Analyzing classics allows for the recognition of substantive advances in entrepreneurship research and provides an opportunity to delve into the academic progress achieved in understanding entrepreneurial phenomena.
Association between allergic diseases and ophthalmologic diseases, including cataracts and glaucoma, using the Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2010–2012: A STROBE‐compliant article
Authors: Lee Young Bok , Lee Ji Hyun , Kang Min Ji , Choi Jin Young , Kim Jin‐Wou , Yu Dong Soo , Han Kyung Do , Park Yong Gyu
Published: January 2018

This study investigated the association between allergic diseases and comorbid ophthalmologic diseases. We enrolled 14 776 participants who were at least 19 years of age. Multiple logistic regression analyses were used to evaluate the odds ratios for cataracts and glaucoma according to the presence of allergic diseases. Atopic dermatitis was not associated with the development of cataracts and glaucoma. However, asthma and allergic rhinitis were significantly associated with cataracts (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.511, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.120–2.039 and HR = 1.565, 95% CI = 1.192–2.054, respectively). This study examined a nationwide, population‐based survey, and concluded that cataracts were significantly associated with asthma and allergic rhinitis but not with atopic dermatitis. Efforts should be made to reduce the risk of ophthalmologic complications when treating patients with allergic diseases.
Comparing Horizontal Mergers Under Cournot with Bertrand Competitions
Authors: Nie Pu‐yan
Published: January 2018

Taking the product substitutability into account, this paper considers the horizontal mergers under Cournot with Bertrand competition. Firstly, the big market size indicates non‐intention to merge. Secondly, independent goods indicate indifferences between the quantity competition and price competition. Finally, firms under quantity competition are more willing to merge than under price competition. The antitrust authority is more inclined to approve the merger under quantity competition than that under price competition.
The diverging paths of skilled immigration in Singapore, Japan and Korea: policy priorities and external labor market for skilled foreign workers
Authors: Kwon Oh‐Jung
Published: January 2018

This article compares the nature of skilled immigration in Singapore, Japan and Korea. Facing skill‐shortage problems due to economic and demographic transitions, these countries responded to the challenges by adopting different modes of skilled immigration. A comparison of the three countries reveals that they displayed substantial variation in the liberalization of skilled immigration and the incorporation of skilled foreign workers into local labor market. Singapore developed formal and qualification‐centered schemes for employing skilled immigrants with active government involvement. Japan maintained temporary and separate employment tracks for foreign skilled workers under strict national guidance. Korea extended the use of foreign skills as substituting labor to meet immediate labor demands in niche labor markets with less systematic government supervision. This study argues that within largely weak interest politics, the distinctive roles of governments and the varying degrees of formalization of foreign labor market led to the different modes of skilled immigration across the three countries. The comparison in this study implies that compared to the state‐led programs, systematic and formalized schemes in the foreign labor market may lessen the informal penalties imposed for foreignness and thus lead to better economic incorporation.
Factors associated with fruit and vegetable and total fat intake in university students: A cross‐sectional explanatory study
Authors: Deliens Tom , Verhoeven Hannah , De Bourdeaudhuij Ilse , Huybrechts Inge , Mullie Patrick , Clarys Peter , Deforche Benedicte
Published: January 2018

Aim

This study assessed sociodemographics, general health, personal and environmental factors associated with fruit and vegetable (F&V) and total fat intake in Belgian university students.

Methods

In total, 185 students completed a self‐reported online questionnaire assessing daily F&V and fat intake, as well as sociodemographic, personal and environmental variables related to F&V and fat intake. Mean F&V and fat consumption were compared with Belgian recommendations. Multiple linear regression analyses were conducted to identify factors associated with F&V and fat intake.

Results

Respectively, 90.3 and 50.8% of students failed to meet the recommendations for F&V and fat consumption. Agreeing more with the fact that one should eat F&V on most days of the week (individual subjective norm), finding it less difficult to eat F&V at home or at university (perceived behavioural control) and experiencing more modelling were associated with higher F&V consumption. Increasing age, higher educational level of the father and higher individual subjective norm about eating low‐fat foods were associated with lower fat intake.

Conclusions

Future interventions aiming to improve dietary intake among university students should focus on younger students with lower socioeconomic status and should enhance students’ subjective norm and behavioural control concerning healthy eating.
Development and validation of a written credentialing examination for overseas‐educated dietitians
Authors: Chiavaroli Neville G. , Beck Eleanor J. , Itsiopoulos Catherine , Wilkinson Paul , Gibbons Kay , Palermo Claire
Published: January 2018

Aim

Health professionals seeking employment in foreign countries are commonly required to undertake competency assessment in order to practice. The present study aims to outline the development and validation of a written examination for Dietetic Skills Recognition (DSR), to assess the knowledge, skills, capabilities and professional judgement of overseas‐educated dietitians against the competency standards applied to dietetic graduates in Australia.

Methods

The present study reviews the design, rationale, validation and outcomes of a multiple choice question (MCQ) written examination for overseas‐educated dietitians based on 5 years of administration. The validity of the exam is evaluated using Messick’s validity framework, which focuses on five potential sources of validity evidence—content, internal structure, relationships with other variables, response process and consequences. The reference point for the exam pass mark or “cutscore” is the minimum standard required for safe practice.

Results

In total, 114 candidates have completed the MCQ examination at least once, with an overall pass rate of 52% on the first attempt. Pass rates are higher from countries where dietetic education more closely reflects the Australian model. While the pass rate for each exam tends to vary with each cohort, the cutscore has remained relatively stable over eight administrations.

Conclusions

The findings provide important data supporting the validity of the MCQ exam. A more complete evaluation of the validity of the exam must be sought within the context of the whole DSR program of assessment. The DSR written component may serve as a model for use of the MCQ format for dietetic and other professional credentialing organisations.
Alcohol and Opioid Use, Co‐Use, and Chronic Pain in the Context of the Opioid Epidemic: A Critical Review
Authors: Witkiewitz Katie , Vowles Kevin E.
Published: January 2018

The dramatic increase in opioid misuse, opioid use disorder (OUD), and opioid‐related overdose deaths in the United States has led to public outcry, policy statements, and funding initiatives. Meanwhile, alcohol misuse and alcohol use disorder (AUD) are a highly prevalent public health problem associated with considerable individual and societal costs. This study provides a critical review of alcohol and opioid misuse, including issues of prevalence, morbidity, and societal costs. We also review research on interactions between alcohol and opioid use, the influence of opioids and alcohol on AUD and OUD treatment outcomes, respectively, the role of pain in the co‐use of alcohol and opioids, and treatment of comorbid OUD and AUD. Heavy drinking, opioid misuse, and chronic pain individually represent significant public health problems. Few studies have examined co‐use of alcohol and opioids, but available data suggest that co‐use is common and likely contributes to opioid overdose‐related morbidity and mortality. Co‐use of opioids and alcohol is related to worse outcomes in treatment for either substance. Finally, chronic pain frequently co‐occurs with use (and co‐use) of alcohol and opioids. Opioid use and alcohol use are also likely to complicate the treatment of chronic pain. Research on the interactions between alcohol and opioids, as well as treatment of the comorbid disorders is lacking. Currently, most alcohol research excludes patients with OUD and there is lack of measurement in both AUD and OUD research in relation to pain‐related functioning. Research in those with chronic pain often assesses opioid use, but rarely assesses alcohol use or AUD. New research to examine the nexus of alcohol, opioids, and pain, as well as their treatment, is critically needed.
Association between bullous pemphigoid and malignancy: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Lucariello Richard J , Villablanca Salvadore E , Mascaró José M , Reichel Martin
Published: January 2018

It has been suggested that bullous pemphigoid is associated with an increased risk of malignancy, but the evidence is inconsistent. Therefore, a meta‐analysis was conducted to explore this association. PUBMED and Embase were searched for studies investigating the association between bullous pemphigoid and malignancy. This meta‐analysis included 16 studies with a total of 9398 cases of bullous pemphigoid. The rate of malignancy in patients with bullous pemphigoid was 11% (95% CI: 9–14, P < 0.001); 9% (95% CI: 6–13, P < 0.003) for women and 13% (95% CI: 9–18, P < 0.03) for men, with a statistically insignificant higher risk in men (OR = 1.30, 95% CI: 0.99–1.71, P = 0.06). The event rate was 9% (95% CI: 5–14, P < 0.001) in the Asian population and 13% (95% CI: 10–17, P < 0.001) in the European population, with a statistically significant lower risk in the Asians population (OR = 0.69, 95% CI: 0.57–0.84; P < 0.001). The event rate of malignancy was higher in patients with bullous pemphigoid than in matched controls (OR = 2.08, 95% CI: 1.22–3.55; P = 0.005). The overall event rate of malignancy was higher in the bullous pemphigoid group than in matched controls. Caution is required when interpreting these results, as potential confounding variables were not controlled for.
Postpartum computed tomography angiography of the fetoplacental macrovasculature in normal pregnancies and in those complicated by fetal growth restriction
Authors: Thunbo Mette Ø. , Sinding Marianne , Korsager Anne S. , Frøkjær Jens B. , Østergaard Lasse R. , Petersen Astrid , Overgaard Charlotte , Sørensen Anne
Published: January 2018

Introduction

Current knowledge of the fetoplacental vasculature in fetal growth restriction (FGR) due to placental dysfunction focuses on the microvasculature rather than the macrovasculature. The aim of this study was to investigate the feasibility of computed tomography angiography to analyze the fetoplacental macrovasculature in normal and FGR pregnancies.

Material and methods

We included 29 placentas (22–42 weeks of gestation) from normal birthweight pregnancies and eight placentas (26–37 weeks of gestation) from FGR pregnancies (birthweight < −15% and abnormal umbilical Doppler flow). We performed postpartum placental computed tomography angiography followed by semi‐automatic three‐dimensional image segmentation.

Results

A median of nine (range seven to eleven) vessel generations was identified. In normal birthweight placentas, gestational age was positively linearly correlated with macrovascular volume (p = 0.002), vascular surface area (p < 0.0005) and number of vessel junctions (p = 0.012), but not with vessel diameter and inter‐branch length. The FGR placentas had a lower weight (p = 0.004) and smaller convex volume (p = 0.022) (smallest convex volume containing the macrovasculature); however, macrovascular volume was not significantly reduced. Hence, macrovascular density given as macrovascular outcomes per placental volume was increased in FGR placentas: macrovascular volume per convex volume (p = 0.004), vascular surface area per convex volume (p = 0.004) and number of vessel junctions per convex volume (p = 0.037).

Conclusions

Evaluation of the fetoplacental macrovasculature is feasible with computed tomography angiography. In normal birthweight placentas, macrovascular volume and surface area increase as pregnancy advances by vessel branching rather than increased vessel diameter and elongation. The FGR placenta was smaller; however, the macrovascular volume was within normal range because of an increased macrovascular density.
Assessing the effect of government surveillance on firm supererogation: The case of the U.S. automobile industry
Authors: Cavazos David E. , Rutherford Matthew , Berman Shawn L.
Published: January 2018

This study builds on prior research investigating the antecedents of firm supererogation. Examining vehicle recalls in the U.S. automobile industry from 1966 to 2010 reveals that surveillance‐based government enforcement programs can have widespread industry effects on a specific type of supererogatory action, firm volunteerism. Specifically, increases in government surveillance are associated with firms going beyond what is legally required of them by initiating voluntary product recalls for defects not covered in existing government regulation. Such effects are shown to be unique among surveillance efforts as other government enforcement activities, such as standards‐based regulation, are revealed to have a negative association with firm supererogation.
Trends in Texas maternal mortality by maternal age, race/ethnicity, and cause of death, 2006‐2015
Authors: MacDorman Marian F. , Declercq Eugene , Thoma Marie E.
Published: January 2018

Background

Maternal mortality is a sentinel indicator of health care quality. Our purpose was to analyze trends in Texas maternal mortality by demographic characteristics and cause of death, and to evaluate data quality.

Methods

Maternal mortality data were initially analyzed by single years, but then were grouped into 5‐year averages (2006‐2010 and 2011‐2015) for more detailed analyses. Rates were computed per 100 000 live births. A two‐proportion z test or Poisson regression for numerators <30 was used to evaluate differences.

Results

The Texas maternal mortality rate increased from 18.6 in 2010 to 38.7 in 2012, and then declined nonsignificantly to 32.5 in 2015. The 2011‐2015 rate (34.2) was 87% higher than the 2006‐2010 rate (18.3). In 2011‐2015, the maternal mortality rate for women ≥40 years (558.8) was 27 times higher than for women <40 years (20.7). From 2006‐2010 to 2011‐2015, the maternal mortality rate increased by 121% for women ≥40 years and by 55% for women <40 years. The rate increased by 132% for nonspecific causes of death, and by 54% for specific causes. Rates for women <40 years for specific causes increased by 36%.

Conclusions

The observed increase in maternal mortality in Texas from 2006‐2010 to 2011‐2015 is likely a result of both a true increase in rates and increased overreporting of maternal deaths, as indicated by implausibly high and increasing rates for women aged ≥40 years and among nonspecific causes of death. Efforts are needed to strengthen reporting of death certificate data, and to improve access to quality maternal health care services.
Hyperkeratotic hand eczema compared to other subgroups of hand eczema – a retrospective study with a follow‐up questionnaire
Authors: van der Heiden Janique , Agner Tove , Rustemeyer Thomas , Clemmensen Kim K. B.
Published: January 2018

Background

Only a few clinical trials on hand eczema have included further classification into subtypes, and there is a need for studies evaluating the present classifications.

Objectives

To examine differences in demographic factors, lifestyle factors and severity between subgroups of hand eczema patients, with a focus on hyperkeratotic hand eczema.

Methods

This was a retrospective study including hand eczema patients referred to the outpatient dermatological clinic, Bispebjerg Hospital, between January 2013 and July 2014. The study comprises information on subdiagnoses, treatment and foot eczema from patient files, as well as a follow‐up questionnaire.

Results

A total of 120 patients were included, 10 of whom were diagnosed with hyperkeratotic hand eczema. A significantly higher proportion of the patients with hyperkeratotic hand eczema were male (p = 0.002) and received systemic or ultraviolet (UV) treatment (p = 0.026). The frequency of tobacco smoking was significantly higher in patients with hyperkeratotic hand eczema (p = 0.016), as well as in the other subgroups combined (p = 0.049), than in the background population.

Conclusions

Studies evaluating the subdiagnoses of hand eczema are needed, to further validate the classification system, and to provide more detailed information about demographic factors, severity and possible risk factors for different subgroups of hand eczema.
The Alcohol Environment Protocol: A new tool for alcohol policy
Authors: Casswell Sally , Morojele Neo , Williams Petal Petersen , Chaiyasong Surasak , Gordon Ross , Gray‐Phillip Gaile , Viet Cuong Pham , MacKintosh Anne‐Marie , Halliday Sharon , Railton Renee , Randerson Steve , Parry Charles D. H.
Published: January 2018

Introduction and Aim

To report data on the implementation of alcohol policies regarding availability and marketing, and drink driving, along with ratings of enforcement from two small high‐income to three high‐middle income countries, and one low‐middle income country.

Method

This study uses the Alcohol Environment Protocol, an International Alcohol Control study research tool, which documents the alcohol policy environment by standardised collection of data from administrative sources, observational studies and interviews with key informants to allow for cross‐country comparison and change over time.

Results

All countries showed adoption to varying extents of key effective policy approaches outlined in the World Health Organization Global Strategy to Reduce the Harmful Use of Alcohol (2010). High‐income countries were more likely to allocate resources to enforcement. However, where enforcement and implementation were high, policy on availability was fairly liberal. Key Informants judged alcohol to be very available in both high‐ and middle‐income countries, reflecting liberal policy in the former and less implementation and enforcement and informal (unlicensed) sale of alcohol in the latter. Marketing was largely unrestricted in all countries and while drink‐driving legislation was in place, it was less well enforced in middle‐income countries.

Conclusion

In countries with fewer resources, alcohol policies are less effective because of lack of implementation and enforcement and, in the case of marketing, lack of regulation. This has implications for the increase in consumption taking place as a result of the expanding distribution and marketing of commercial alcohol and consequent increases in alcohol‐related harm.
The extent and predictability of the biodiversity–carbon correlation
Authors: Di Marco Moreno , Watson James E. M. , Currie David J. , Possingham Hugh P. , Venter Oscar
Published: January 2018

Protecting biomass carbon stocks to mitigate climate change has direct implications for biodiversity conservation. Yet, evidence that a positive association exists between carbon density and species richness is contrasting. Here, we test how this association varies (1) across spatial extents and (2) as a function of how strongly carbon and species richness depend on environmental variables. We found the correlation weakens when moving from larger extents, e.g. realms, to narrower extents, e.g. ecoregions. For ecoregions, a positive correlation emerges when both species richness and carbon density vary as functions of the same environmental variables (climate, soil, elevation). In 20% of tropical ecoregions, there are opportunities to pursue carbon conservation with direct biodiversity co‐benefits, while other ecoregions require careful planning for both species and carbon to avoid potentially perverse outcomes. The broad assumption of a linear relationship between carbon and biodiversity can lead to undesired outcomes.
Ethical Firm System and Stakeholder Management Theories: A Possible Convergence
Authors: Rusconi Gianfranco
Published: January 2018

This paper presents a model for exploring the relationships between the stakeholder management theory (SMT) and the firm system theory (FST) which are interpreted from an ethical perspective. FST forms part of the Italian economia aziendale or business administration studies. The author proposes to include SMT in an ethical application of FST (EFST, ethical firm system theory), where ethical duties are considered to be strictly linked to the management of the firm system (mutatis mutandis, such as production, marketing, finance and so on). Such a metaphorical merger is useful for many purposes. In particular, this paper focuses on the use of EFST to tackle three important and critical ethical points of SMT (the dichotomy between economic success and ethics, stakeholder engagement and ethical responsibility and competition in a cooperative, but not corporatist context), without changing the essential nature of the managerial idea underlying SMT, but inserting it in EFST with mutual benefits for both approaches.
Combining niche shift and population genetic analyses predicts rapid phenotypic evolution during invasion
Authors: Sotka Erik E. , Baumgardner Aaron W. , Bippus Paige M. , Destombe Christophe , Duermit Elizabeth A. , Endo Hikaru , Flanagan Ben A. , Kamiya Mits , Lees Lauren E. , Murren Courtney J. , Nakaoka Masahiro , Shainker Sarah J. , Strand Allan E. , Terada Ryuta , Valero Myriam , Weinberger Florian , Krueger‐Hadfield Stacy A.
Published: January 2018

The rapid evolution of non‐native species can facilitate invasion success, but recent reviews indicate that such microevolution rarely yields expansion of the climatic niche in the introduced habitats. However, because some invasions originate from a geographically restricted portion of the native species range and its climatic niche, it is possible that the frequency, direction, and magnitude of phenotypic evolution during invasion have been underestimated. We explored the utility of niche shift analyses in the red seaweed Gracilaria vermiculophylla, which expanded its range from the northeastern coastline of Japan to North America, Europe, and northwestern Africa within the last 100 years. A genetically informed climatic niche shift analysis indicates that native source populations occur in colder and highly seasonal habitats, while most non‐native populations typically occur in warmer, less seasonal habitats. This climatic niche expansion predicts that non‐native populations evolved greater tolerance for elevated heat conditions relative to native source populations. We assayed 935 field‐collected and 325 common‐garden thalli from 40 locations, and as predicted, non‐native populations had greater tolerance for ecologically relevant extreme heat (40°C) than did Japanese source populations. Non‐native populations also had greater tolerance for cold and low‐salinity stresses relative to source populations. The importance of local adaptation to warm temperatures during invasion was reinforced by evolution of parallel clines: Populations from warmer, lower‐latitude estuaries had greater heat tolerance than did populations from colder, higher‐latitude estuaries in both Japan and eastern North America. We conclude that rapid evolution plays an important role in facilitating the invasion success of this and perhaps other non‐native marine species. Genetically informed ecological niche analyses readily generate clear predictions of phenotypic shifts during invasions and may help to resolve debate over the frequency of niche conservatism versus rapid adaptation during invasion.
Youth Disclosure of Sexual Orientation to Siblings and Extended Family
Authors: Grafsky Erika L. , Hickey Katherine , Nguyen Hoa N. , Wall John D.
Published: January 2018

Objective

To explore the processes and experiences associated with disclosing sexual orientation to siblings and extended family.

Background

Few studies prioritize the experience of disclosing to siblings and extended family, despite its frequency and potential impact on the family unit. Extended family members often act as sources of support for youth; it is therefore worthwhile to consider whether this remains true during and after disclosure of sexual orientation.

Method

Interview and questionnaire data were gathered from 22 lesbian, gay, bisexual, and queer (LGBQ) youth, 14 to 21 years of age, from a large Midwestern U.S. city. Constructivist grounded theory informed the qualitative methodology and data analysis. We build on concepts of horizontal and vertical family relationships by also introducing the concept of diagonal relationships.

Results

Participants described their relationships with aunts as possessing characteristics of horizontal and vertical relationships, allowing them to act as moderators and mediators of the parent–child relationship.

Conclusion

The concepts of vertical, horizontal, and diagonal relationships take into consideration how the structure (e.g., hierarchy, egalitarianism, boundaries) and nature (e.g., closeness, reciprocity, mentorship) of various relationships shape the coming‐out process for LGBQ youth, without dismissing the importance of either immediate or extended family members.

Implications

The emerging conceptualization can guide services and interventions as well as illuminate further research on the family systems of LGBQ youth.
Novel mutations and phenotypes of epilepsy‐associated genes in epileptic encephalopathies
Authors: Zhou P. , He N. , Zhang J.‐W. , Lin Z.‐J. , Wang J. , Yan L.‐M. , Meng H. , Tang B. , Li B.‐M. , Liu X.‐R. , Shi Y.‐W. , Zhai Q.‐X. , Yi Y.‐H. , Liao W.‐P.
Published: January 2018

Epileptic encephalopathies are severe epilepsy disorders with strong genetic bases. We performed targeted next‐generation sequencing (NGS) in 70 patients with epileptic encephalopathies. The likely pathogenicity of variants in candidate genes was evaluated by American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics (ACMG) scoring taken together with the accepted clinical presentation. Thirty‐three candidate variants were detected after population filtration and computational prediction. According to ACMG, 21 candidate variants, including 18 de novo variants, were assessed to be pathogenic/likely pathogenic with clinical concordance. Twelve variants were initially assessed as uncertain significance by ACMG, among which 3 were considered causative and 3 others were considered possibly causative after analysis of clinical concordance. In total, 24 variants were identified as putatively causative, among which 19 were novel findings. SCN1A mutations were identified in 50% of patients with Dravet syndrome. TSC1/TSC2 mutations were detected in 66.7% of patients with tuberous sclerosis. STXBP1 mutations were the main findings in patients with West syndrome. Mutations in SCN2A, KCNT1, KCNQ2 and CLCN4 were identified in patients with epileptic infantile with migrating focal seizures; among them, KCNQ2 and CLCN4 were first identified as potential causative genes. Only one CHD2 mutation was detected in patients with Lennox‐Gastaut syndrome. This study highlighted the utility of targeted NGS in genetic diagnoses of epileptic encephalopathies and a comprehensive evaluation of the pathogenicity of variants based on ACMG scoring and assessment of clinical concordance. Epileptic encephalopathies differ in genetic causes, and the genotype‐phenotype correlations would provide insights into the underlying pathogenic mechanisms.
A mineralogical record of ocean change: Decadal and centennial patterns in the California mussel
Authors: McCoy Sophie J. , Kamenos Nicholas A. , Chung Peter , Wootton Timothy J. , Pfister Catherine A.
Published: January 2018

Ocean acidification, a product of increasing atmospheric carbon dioxide, may already have affected calcified organisms in the coastal zone, such as bivalves and other shellfish. Understanding species’ responses to climate change requires the context of long‐term dynamics. This can be particularly difficult given the longevity of many important species in contrast with the relatively rapid onset of environmental changes. Here, we present a unique archival dataset of mussel shells from a locale with recent environmental monitoring and historical climate reconstructions. We compare shell structure and composition in modern mussels, mussels from the 1970s, and mussel shells dating back to 1000–2420 years BP. Shell mineralogy has changed dramatically over the past 15 years, despite evidence for consistent mineral structure in the California mussel, Mytilus californianus, over the prior 2500 years. We present evidence for increased disorder in the calcium carbonate shells of mussels and greater variability between individuals. These changes in the last decade contrast markedly from a background of consistent shell mineralogy for centuries. Our results use an archival record of natural specimens to provide centennial‐scale context for altered minerology and variability in shell features as a response to acidification stress and illustrate the utility of long‐term studies and archival records in global change ecology. Increased variability between individuals is an emerging pattern in climate change responses, which may equally expose the vulnerability of organisms and the potential of populations for resilience.
Factors shaping large‐scale gradients in seed physical defence: Seeds are not better defended towards the tropics
Authors: Chen Si‐Chong , Moles Angela T.
Published: January 2018

Aim

Previous studies have shown that seed predation is not more intense towards the tropics. One possible explanation for this finding is that seeds might be better defended at lower latitudes. Our goal was to provide the first broad‐scale, quantitative analysis of the latitudinal gradient in physical investment in tissues surrounding seed reserve. In order to understand which factors underpin large‐scale gradients in seed defence, we also quantified relationships between seed physical defence and climate, seed predation, seed mass, fruit type and growth form.

Location

Twenty‐five sites ranging from 15°30′ to 43°35′ S along the east coast of Australia.

Time period

2015.

Major taxa studied

Seed plants.

Methods

We measured the biomass ratio of protective tissue to seed reserve (hereafter, seed physical defence) for 250 species–site combinations, with separate consideration of the structures protecting the seed during exposure to pre‐dispersal seed predation and post‐dispersal seed predation.

Results

Contrary to expectations, cross‐species analyses showed that pre‐dispersal seed physical defence was greater towards high latitudes, whereas there was no latitudinal gradient in post‐dispersal seed physical defence. Phylogenetic analyses revealed no significant relationship between latitude and either pre‐dispersal or post‐dispersal seed physical defence. There was no relationship between either pre‐dispersal or post‐dispersal seed physical defence and seed predation or seed mass. Fleshy‐fruited or herbaceous species invested less in pre‐dispersal seed physical defence while suffering less pre‐dispersal seed predation than did dry‐fruited or woody species.

Main conclusions

Our findings indicate that natural seeds in their natural habitats are not better defended at lower latitudes. Together with recent studies of latitudinal gradients in seed predation, leaf herbivory and defence, this study adds to the growing body of evidence that challenges the idea of a declining latitudinal gradient in biotic interactions and therefore casts doubt on the traditional understanding of the factors driving the latitudinal gradient in plant diversity.
Efficacy and safety of sitagliptin in elderly patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Tago Motoko , Oyama Jun‐ichi , Sakamoto Yoshiko , Shiraki Aya , Uchida Fumi , Chihara Atsuko , Ikeda Hideo , Kuroki Shigetaka , Gondo Shigeki , Iwamoto Taketo , Uchida Yasufumi , Node Koichi
Published: January 2018

Aim

The aim of the present study was to assess the efficacy and safety of sitagliptin in elderly patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Methods

A total of 188 patients were enrolled who had type 2 diabetes mellitus with poor glycemic profiles (hemoglobin A1c [HbA1c] ≥6.2%). Patients were assigned to one of three age groups (<65, 65–74 and ≥75 years) and received 50–100 mg of sitagliptin daily for 12 months. Changes in HbA1c classified by age and body mass index (BMI) were assessed in addition to physiological parameters.

Results

Mean HbA1c decreased significantly in all age groups (<65 years 8.01 ± 1.59% to 7.29 ± 1.23%; 65–74 years 7.61 ± 1.11% to 7.05 ± 0.99%; ≥75 years 7.21 ± 0.87% to 6.74 ± 0.96%). Reductions in HbA1c were not significantly different among age groups (P = 0.324). In older patients aged 65–74 years and ≥75 years, HbA1c decreased significantly in lean (BMI <25 kg/m2) patients (7.52 ± 1.10% to 6.99 ± 1.08%; P < 0.001) and in obese (BMI ≥25 kg/m2) patients (7.25% ± 0.90% to 6.86% ± 0.86%; P = 0.015); the changes in HbA1c were not significantly different between the lean and the obese groups (P = 0.943). Adverse events occurred in 12 patients (10.3%) aged ≥65 years, although there was no significant difference among the three age groups.

Conclusions

Sitagliptin treatment offers elderly patients aged ≥65 years efficacious and safe reductions in HbA1c values regardless of BMI. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2018; 18: 631–639.
Comparison of Epstein–Barr virus‐positive mucocutaneous ulcer associated with treated lymphoma or methotrexate in Japan
Authors: Daroontum Teerada , Kohno Kei , Eladl Ahmed E , Satou Akira , Sakakibara Ayako , Matsukage Shoichi , Yakushiji Naoki , Ya‐In Charin , Nakamura Shigeo , Asano Naoko , Kato Seiichi
Published: January 2018

Aims

The aim of the present study was to compare treated lymphoma‐associated Epstein–Barr virus (EBV)‐positive mucocutaneous ulcer (EBVMCU) and methotrexate (MTX)‐associated EBVMCU.

Methods and results

Of a series of 15 Japanese patients (11 women, four men; median age 74 years, range 35–84 years), seven received MTX for the treatment of autoimmune disease and eight developed EBVMCU after treatment of malignant lymphoma [diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (n = 4) without EBV association, adult T‐cell leukaemia/lymphoma (n = 2), angioimmunoblastic T‐cell lymphoma (n = 1), and follicular lymphoma (n = 1)]. Ulcers were observed in the oral cavity (n = 11), gastrointestinal tract (n = 2), and skin (n = 2). All were histologically characterised by a mixture of EBV‐positive large B‐cell proliferation and Hodgkin/Reed–Sternberg‐like cells on a polymorphous background. A total of 46% (6/13) had monoclonal immunoglobulin heavy chain gene rearrangement, but none had clonal T‐cell receptor gene rearrangement. Spontaneous regression occurred in 13 of 15 cases (87%); the other two cases (13%) achieved complete remission after treatment. Of two patients in the treated lymphoma‐associated subgroup, one developed multiple new ulcerative lesions on previously unaffected skin, and the other had a relapse of EBVMCU in the oral cavity. No significant clinicopathological differences were found between the subgroups. Notably, none of the patients died from EBVMCU. However, the treated lymphoma‐associated subgroup had lower overall survival (P = 0.004) and a shorter follow‐up period (P = 0.003) than the MTX‐associated subgroup, owing to death from non‐associated causes.

Conclusions

Treated lymphoma‐associated EBVMCU, which is an indolent and self‐limited condition, must be recognised to avoid misdiagnosing it as a relapse of malignant lymphoma during treatment.