bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Sustainability KPIs for integrated reporting
Authors: Oshika Tomoki , Saka Chika 
Published: June 2017

Purpose
The framework of the International Integrated Reporting Council (IIRC) is principles-based and does not provide specific key performance indicators (KPIs) for integrated thinking and reporting. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to propose KPIs for integrated reporting which decipher a firm’s sustainability through empirical analysis.

Design/methodology/approach
As a proxy of firms’ sustainability, the authors focus on firms that have survived for more than 100 years and that have already achieved sustainability, and analyze these firms to reveal the financial features that distinguish sustainable firms from the other firms.

Findings
The study found two distinguishing facts: the value added that is distributed to stakeholders other than shareholders is significantly larger, and the stability of profitability and the profitability itself are significantly higher in sustainable firms.

Practical implications
The study proposes a value-added distribution and the stability of profitability as sustainability KPIs for integrated reporting.

Originality/value
First, this study provides the first evidence that value added distribution and the stability of profitability distinguish a firm’s sustainability. Second, it provides a new perspective in the search for sustainability KPIs. Third, as the empirical data consist of all listed firms in 136 countries, the results should be robust and general.
Biogenic silica accumulation varies across tussock tundra plant functional type
Authors: Carey Joanna C. , Parker Thomas C. , Fetcher Ned , Tang Jianwu 
Published: June 2017

Abstract

Silica (SiO2) accumulation by terrestrial vegetation is an important component of the biological silica cycle because it improves overall plant fitness and influences export rates of silica from terrestrial to marine systems. However, most research on silica in plants has focused on agricultural and forested ecosystems, and knowledge of terrestrial silica cycling in the Arctic, as well as the potential impacts of climate change on the silica cycle is severely lacking.

We quantified biogenic silica (BSi) accumulation in above and below‐ground portions of three moist acidic tundra (MAT) sites spanning a 300 km latitudinal gradient in central and northern Alaska, USA. We also examined plant silica accumulation across three main tundra types found in the Arctic (MAT, moist non‐acidic tundra and wet sedge tundra (WST)).

Biogenic silica concentrations in live Eriophorum vaginatum, a tussock‐forming sedge that is the foundation species of tussock tundra, were not significantly (p < .05) different across the three main sites. Concentrations of BSi in live above‐ground tissue were highest in the graminoid species (0.55 ± 0.07% BSi in sedges from WST, and 0.27 ± 0.01% in E. vaginatum across the three MAT sites). Both inter‐tussock tundra species and shrubs contained substantially lower BSi concentrations than E. vaginatum.

Our results have implications for how shifts in vegetation cover associated with climatic warming may alter silica storage in tussock tundra vegetation. Our calculations suggest that shrub expansion via warming will increase BSi storage in Arctic land plants due to the higher biomass associated with shrub tundra, whereas conversion of tussock tundra to WST via permafrost thaw would produce the opposite effect in the terrestrial plant BSi pool. Such changes in the size of the terrestrial vegetation silica reservoir could have direct consequences for the rates and timing of silica delivery to receiving waters in the Arctic.

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is available for this article.
Do invasive species live faster? Mass‐specific metabolic rate depends on growth form and invasion status
Authors: Lagos Marcelo E. , White Craig R. , Marshall Dustin J. 
Published: June 2017

AbstractInvasive organisms often share characteristics that make them successful. Traits such as rapid growth and short generation times are classic “weed” phenotypes, such that invasive species often have r‐selected rather than k‐selected life histories. Given that invasive species often display “fast” life histories, invasive species may have relatively higher metabolic rates but systematic tests across taxa are lacking.We compared metabolic rate across 14 sessile invasive and native marine invertebrates. We also investigated the influence of growth form (erect vs. flat species) on the metabolic rate of these species, since growth form can also affect metabolic rate.For species with an erect growth form, we found an effect of invasive status on mass‐specific metabolic rate. Invasive species had much higher mass‐specific metabolic rates than native species and this was particularly pronounced for organisms with smaller body masses.Given that smaller‐bodied invasive organisms are typically early‐successional, “fugitive” species, a higher metabolic rate may allow a faster pace of life, enhancing their capacity to invade and reproduce in newly created disturbed habitats.Aplain language summaryis available for this article.
Advancing research on animal‐transported subsidies by integrating animal movement and ecosystem modelling
Authors: Earl Julia E. , Zollner Patrick A. 
Published: June 2017

AbstractConnections between ecosystems via animals (active subsidies) support ecosystem services and contribute to numerous ecological effects. Thus, the ability to predict the spatial distribution of active subsidies would be useful for ecology and conservation.Previous work modelling active subsidies focused on implicit space or static distributions, which treat passive and active subsidies similarly. Active subsidies are fundamentally different from passive subsidies, because animals can respond to the process of subsidy deposition and ecosystem changes caused by subsidy deposition.We propose addressing this disparity by integrating animal movement and ecosystem ecology to advance active subsidy investigations, make more accurate predictions of subsidy spatial distributions, and enable a mechanistic understanding of subsidy spatial distributions.We review selected quantitative techniques that could be used to accomplish integration and lead to novel insights. The ultimate objective for these types of studies is predictions of subsidy spatial distributions from characteristics of the subsidy and the movement strategy employed by animals that transport subsidies. These advances will be critical in informing the management of ecosystem services, species conservation and ecosystem degradation related to active subsidies.
Developmental outcomes of children in classes for special educational needs: results from a longitudinal study
Authors: Törmänen Minna R.K. , Roebers Claudia M. 
Published: June 2017

This longitudinal study investigates the differences in cognitive and socio‐emotional development and academic achievement between children educated in special education classes (N = 37) and regular classes (N = 37). The study is retrospective. The first measurement point was while children were attending play‐oriented kindergarten and no decision about their education had yet been made. The second measurement point followed after 2 years of schooling. Comparing carefully matched groups, no differences in executive functions (EFs) were found before beginning school. Children assigned to special education had poorer language, fine motor skills and a lower pre‐academic self‐concept, self‐regulatory skills and social integration. Notably, every fourth child in special education was an immigrant, 9% of whom later attended regular classes. After 2 years of schooling in either setting, the groups differed significantly in academic achievement, EFs, fine motor skills and cognitive self‐regulatory skills. However, it was not – as school officials had intended – that children in special education classes had caught up, except in regard to their academic self‐concept and social integration.
Risk and Returns of Income Producing Properties: Core versus Noncore
Authors: Gang Jianhua , Peng Liang , Thibodeau Thomas G. 
Published: June 2017

AbstractThis article empirically analyzes whether core and noncore private income producing properties have different investment returns, using a large sample of about 5,000 individual properties during the 1997–2014 period. We use a holding‐period factor model to control for both systematic risk, including loadings of both public equity factors and a real estate factor, and nonsystematic risk. We find that core properties have lower systematic risk but higher returns than noncore properties before and after adjusting for both systematic and nonsystematic risk.
The Modern Compound Bow
Authors: Sung LokMan , Kesha Kilak , Avedschmidt Sarah , Root Kelly , Hlavaty Leigh 
Published: June 2017

AbstractBows and arrows are ancient weapons that have risen and fallen as the preeminent armaments used by man. Because of the ubiquity of firearms, fatalities from archery injuries in the United States have radically declined. However, when deaths involving this weapon do present themselves, the paucity of reference materials can be a hurdle for forensic pathologists and other forensic scientists. This article will provide a brief history of the origins of the bow and the inception of the compound bow. Comparing and contrasting the structures comprising a traditional bow to those of the modern compound bow will provide insight into how these components function in unison to propel arrows.
The power of 3D fractal dimensions for comparative shape and structural complexity analyses of irregularly shaped organisms
Authors: Reichert Jessica , Backes André R. , Schubert Patrick , Wilke Thomas 
Published: June 2017

Abstract

The increasing interest in 3D morphological approaches for addressing evolutionary and ecological questions has driven the need for reliable, efficient, and easily accessible methods for shape quantification and complexity characterization. This applies in particular to irregularly shaped organisms, such as stony corals, which are challenging to study using traditional morphometric analyses.

A potential approach to assess shape and spatial complexity of 3D documented organisms are 3D fractal dimension analyses that combine information from various spatial scales, thus enabling a holistic shape quantification. Therefore, the latest 3D scanning technology and fractal dimension analyses were used to test the performance of this novel combination of methods for quantifying inter‐ and intraspecific differences in shape and spatial complexity of highly irregularly shaped organisms. As model taxa, six widespread species of stony corals were used, belonging to the genera Acropora, Pocillopora and Porites. First, high‐resolution shape models of coral colonies were generated using 3D structured light scanning. Then the univariate fractal dimension D and the multivariate multiscale fractal dimension as well as two traditional univariate morphological measures (surface–volume ratio and rugosity) were calculated. Finally all parameters were tested for significant interspecific and intraspecific differences, and the discriminative power of the two fractal dimension and the two traditional measures were assessed.

The results show that 3D shape analyses based on fractal dimensions can be used to quantify both inter‐ and intraspecific variations in irregularly shaped organisms such as corals. Compared to traditional methods, fractal dimensions performed at least as good at the interspecific level and considerably better at the intraspecific level.

This study demonstrates that 3D fractal dimension analyses are an efficient and easily applicable method for shape quantification and complexity characterization of irregularly shaped organisms, such as stony corals. Given the specific properties of fractal dimensions, they may either serve as an alternative complexity measure or as an additional characteristic for studying irregularly shaped organisms. Ultimately, fractal dimensions may provide a more integrative understanding of morphological variation within an ecological and evolutionary context, and could open up new opportunities for semi‐automatic or automatic species determination based on 3D morphological images.
Ecological and anthropogenic effects on the density of migratory and resident ungulates in a human‐inhabited protected area
Authors: M'soka Jassiel , Creel Scott , Becker Matthew S. , Murdoch James D. 
Published: June 2017

AbstractUnderstanding the influence of environmental conditions and people on ungulate density and distribution is of key importance for conservation. We evaluated the effects of ecological and anthropogenic factors on the density of migratory wildebeest and zebra and resident oribi in Zambia's Liuwa Plain National Park where human settlements were present. We conducted transect surveys from 2010 to 2013 using distance sampling methods and then developed a set of 38 candidate models to describe results and predict density. Models included the effects of variables in three classes: environmental (year, season, vegetation, predominant grass height, burn, water presence), predation risk (hyaena density) and anthropogenic (distance to park boundary and settlements). Densities ranged from 6.2 to 60.8 individuals km−2 for wildebeest, 1.1 to 14.5 individuals km−2 for oribi and 1.8 to 8.1 individuals km−2 for zebra. The most complex models were strongly supported for all three species. The magnitude and sign of variable effects differed among species, indicating that local densities of wildebeest, oribi and zebra are affected by a complex set of anthropogenic and ecological factors. Results reveal resource partitioning among ungulate species and indicate that predation risk and proximity to humans affect ungulate distributions with implications for managing migrations in the Greater Liuwa Ecosystem.
What's in a name? Atopic dermatitis or atopic eczema, but not eczema alone
Authors: Silverberg J. I. , Thyssen J. P. , Paller A. S. , Drucker A. M. , Wollenberg A. , Lee K. H. , Kabashima K. , Todd G. , Schmid‐Grendelmeier P. , Bieber T. 
Published: June 2017

AbstractBackgroundThe ideal nomenclature of atopic dermatitis (AD) / atopic eczema (AE) has long been contested. However, it is becoming increasingly clear that the disparate nomenclature of this disease may have important deleterious ramifications for clinical care and research.Materials and MethodsAn electronic questionnaire regarding the preferred nomenclature for AD was sent to councilors of the International Eczema Council (IEC) (n=77), an international group of clinicians and researchers with expertise in AD/AE. The survey consisted of 2 questions for consensus regarding the preference for an atopic prefix, and preference for the term AD or AE, and an exploratory question about the acceptability of the terms AD, AE or eczema. Consensus was defined a priori as at least 90% agreement for each question with a response rate of at least 90%.ResultsSeventy‐one of 77 (92.2%) IEC councilors and associates responded to the survey, with all respondents completing the entire survey. Consensus was reached for question 1, with 69 of 71 respondents (97.2%) preferring the atopic prefix. However, consensus was not reached for question 2, with 40 respondents (58.0%) preferring the term AD and 30 (43,5%) preferring AE. Sixty‐three respondents (88.7%) and 55 (77.5%) felt that the terms AD and AE were acceptable, whereas only 11 (15.5%) felt that eczema was acceptable.ConclusionsThe IEC noted that the term eczema is imprecise, and its use is confusing. The consensus of the IEC was to recommend use of the prefix “atopic” (i.e., AD or AE) in all publications, presentations and discussions about the disorder.
A randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐ and risperidone‐controlled study on valnoctamide for acute mania
Authors: Weiser Mark , Levi Linda , Levine Stephen Z , Bialer Meir , Shekh‐Ahmad Tawfeeq , Matei Valentin , Tiugan Alexandru , Cirjaliu Diana , Sava Cristinel , Sinita Eugenia , Zamora Daisy , Davis John M 
Published: June 2017

ObjectivesMood stabilizers administered for bipolar disorder during pregnancy, such as valproic acid, can increase the risk of congenital anomalies in offspring. Valnoctamide is a valproic acid derivative associated with a decreased risk for congenital abnormalities in animals. The present study evaluated the efficacy and safety of valnoctamide monotherapy, compared to placebo, in the treatment of patients in an acute manic episode.MethodsA 3‐week, double‐blind, randomized, placebo‐ and risperidone‐controlled, parallel group trial was conducted on 173 patients in an acute manic episode. Patients were randomized to receive valnoctamide 1500 mg/d (n=71), risperidone 6 mg/d (n=32), or matching placebo (n=70). The primary outcome measure was the change in Young Mania Rating Scale (YMRS) scores.ResultsValnoctamide did not differ significantly from placebo on any of the study endpoints (YMRS, Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale, and the Clinical Global Impression Scale for Bipolar Disorder [CGI‐BP] scales; all P>.60). Mixed models for repeated measures showed that risperidone produced significantly more improvement than placebo in the overall bipolar disorder CGI‐BP severity scale (P=.036), and the CGI‐BP severity scale for mania (P=.021). The Kaplan‐Meier survival curve revealed higher all‐cause discontinuation rates (mainly due to lack of efficacy) in the valnoctamide group compared to the other study groups (P=.026). Patients with higher valnoctamide plasma levels had a numerically higher YMRS response, but this was not statistically significant.ConclusionsValnoctamide was well tolerated at 1500 mg/d but lacked efficacy in the treatment of symptoms in patients with acute mania. Possible differences between the biological mechanisms of action of valproic acid and valnoctamide are discussed.
Effects of achievement goals on perceptions of competence in conditions of unfavourable social comparisons: The mastery goal advantage effect
Authors: Kamarova Sviatlana , Chatzisarantis Nikos L. D. , Hagger Martin S. , Lintunen Taru , Hassandra Mary , Papaioannou Athanasios 
Published: June 2017

BackgroundPrevious prospective studies have documented that mastery‐approach goals are adaptive because they facilitate less negative psychological responses to unfavourable social comparisons than performance‐approach goals.AimsThis study aimed to confirm this so‐called ‘mastery goal advantage’ effect experimentally.MethodsA 2 × 3 design was adopted where achievement goals (mastery vs. performance) and normative information (favourable vs. no‐normative information vs. unfavourable) were manipulated as between participant factors.SampleParticipants were 201 undergraduates, 57 males and 144 females, ranging in age from 17 to 55 years (Mage = 22.53, SD = 6.51).ResultsRegression analyses pointed out that experimentally induced mastery‐approach goals facilitated higher levels of competence and happiness with task performance than experimentally induced performance‐approach goals in conditions of unfavourable social comparisons. In contrast, although performance‐approach goals yielded the highest levels of happiness with task performance in conditions of favourable social comparisons, this positive effect of performance‐approach goals did not extend to perceptions of competence.ConclusionCurrent findings broaden understanding of the adaptive nature of mastery‐approach goals and suggest that it is possible to modulate aversive responses to unfavourable social comparisons by focusing attention on mastery‐approach goals.
The pregnant urologist
Authors: Hall Susan Jane , Williams Simon T. 
Published: June 2017

Female urologists represent an ever‐increasing percentage of the work force; more and more of our colleagues will be working through pregnancy. There is a lack of clear and concise advice for pregnant urologists about occupational risks during pregnancy. Urology exposes expectant mothers to potential risks from radiation, teratogenic and cytotoxic drugs, iodine hand scrub, infections, and long working hours. We aim to provide a review of the current evidence and guidance to aid expectant mothers in their decision making. Relevant research articles and up‐to‐date guidance were reviewed. The millisevert (the average accumulated background radiation dose to an individual for 1 year, exclusive of radon) was used as the main unit of radiation dose. There is no published evidence to date in pregnant clinicians that shows a received radiation dose of more than the recommended dose for a pregnant lady, and no data showing an increased risk of foetal abnormalities in clinicians who continue to screen during pregnancy; however, the data are from small studies. There is strong advice suggesting avoidance of contact with crushed or broken 5α‐reductase inhibitor tablets (finasteride and dutasteride), mitomycin and other cytotoxic drugs during pregnancy. Pregnant surgeons should avoid frequent use of iodine hand wash. Good hygiene precautions will protect from many infections along with up‐to‐date immunisations and use of personal protective equipment for certain cases.
Preliminary investigations into developing all‐D Omiganan for treating Mupirocin‐resistant MRSA skin infections
Authors: Ng Siew Mei Samantha , Teo Shu Wei , Yong Yaqing Elena , Ng Fui Mee , Lau Qiu Ying , Jureen Roland , Hill Jeffrey , Chia C. S. Brian 
Published: June 2017

Staphylococcus aureus is the primary pathogen responsible for the majority of human skin infections, and meticillin‐resistant S. aureus (MRSA) currently presents a major clinical concern. The overuse of Mupirocin, the first‐line topical antibacterial drug over 30 years, has led to the emergence of Mupirocin‐resistant MRSA, creating a clinical concern. The antimicrobial peptide Omiganan was touted to be a promising antibacterial drug candidate due to its rapid membrane‐disrupting bactericidal mode of action, entering clinical trials in 2005 as a topical gel to prevent catheter site infections. However, drug development ceased in 2009 due to a lack of efficacy. We postulate this to be due to proteolytic degradation caused by endogenous human skin proteases. Herein, we tested our hypothesis using Omiganan and its all‐D enantiomer in a human skin protease stability assay, followed by anti‐MRSA activity assay against of a panel of clinical MRSA isolates, a bactericidal/static determination and a time‐kill assay to gauge all‐D Omiganan's potential for further topical antibacterial drug development.