bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Value‐added reporting as a tool for sustainability: a Latin American experience
Authors: Perera Aldama Luis , Zicari Adrián 
Published: April 2013

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to present a collection of ongoing experiences with a value‐added reporting model in Latin America, positing its pertinence with regards to CSR accountability.Design/methodology/approachThe paper utilises a qualitative methodology in which a series of semi‐structured telephone interviews and/or e‐mail questionnaires with managers from six reporting companies in Latin America (Chile, Colombia, Uruguay) was conducted. The fact that one of the authors of this paper created the reporting model facilitated easier access to company managers and a deeper understanding of each situation. A literature review from European, US and Latin American sources provides a framework for discussion.FindingsThe paper illustrates how value‐added statements (which are based on conventional financial accounting) can provide relevant information for CSR accountability. The variety of experiences shown (different industries and diverse company ownership in separate countries) may suggest the wide potential of this reporting model.Research limitations/implicationsAs the paper deals with a recent, ongoing experience (this model has been in use for the last six years only), the results have to be treated with caution. Even though many firms are interested in adopting this value‐added model, there are currently fewer than 20 reporting firms using it.Social implicationsThe paper aims to position value distribution and its accountability as relevant issues in CSR, particularly for developing countries. In addition, such an intuitive model might more easily reach the general public, something that rarely happens with conventional CSR reporting models.Originality/valueThis is the first academic paper that demonstrates the application of this reporting model (though the authors already published a practitioner‐oriented article in Spanish). Furthermore, there are few documented cases of value‐added reporting experiences in emerging markets, particularly in Latin America.
New corporate code and immediate performance change of the Nigerian firms
Authors: Adewuyi Adeolu O. , Olowookere Afolabi E. 
Published: April 2013

PurposeThis study aims to investigate the immediate impact of a newly released code of governance on the financial performance of Nigerian companies. Tests are carried out to determine whether firms that comply more with the code experience better performance.Design/methodology/approachThe governance change of Nigerian listed firms after the newly released code is classified into ex ante good governance change or ex ante bad governance change; the differences in performance between the good governance change firms and bad governance change firms are then compared. Since firms in any year can change more than one governance indicator, an index of aggregate governance change is computed and the performance of firms from two extreme governance rankings is compared.FindingsIt is found that in the immediate period after the release of the code, Nigerian firms reorganised their governance mechanism, and this sometimes involved substitution among mechanisms. However, the performance increase accrued to any firm with reorganisation towards a good mechanism could have been eroded when the same firm instituted a change towards another mechanism that matches the definition of bad change. This therefore makes an attempt to differentiate performance based on governance change (pre‐ and post‐new code) difficult and insignificant.Originality/valueThis study contributes to the scarce literature on corporate governance and firm performance in developing countries. Specifically, it can be regarded as the first study to test the immediate impact of a new code of governance on Nigerian firms. Equally, the adopted methodology makes it the first study to compute and test an aggregate index of governance change for Nigeria.
Investigating the critical success factors of corporate social responsibility implementation: evidence from the Iranian banking sector
Authors: Safari Kahreh Mohammad , Mehdi Mirmehdi Seyyed , Eram Asghar 
Published: April 2013

PurposeThe main purpose of this paper is to identify the critical success factors of corporate social responsibility (CSR). By illustrating the CSFs of CSR implementation, policy‐ and decision‐makers can handle the business at a higher level of effectiveness and efficiency and will achieve sustainable development in a turbulent business environment. To achieve this purpose and to identify the CSFs of CSR implementation, evidence from the banking sector of Iran will be gathered. By using the experts in this field, the CSFs identified will be validated and then ranked.Design/methodology/approachTo achieve this purpose and to identify the CSFs of CSR implementation, evidence from the banking sector in Iran will be gathered. By using the experts in this field, the CSFs identified will be validated and then ranked. This research, implemented in the banking sector, is an innovative study that can contribute valuable insights for both academicians and professionals in the field. In the final section of this work, applied and theoretical recommendations will be presented.FindingsIn this research the critical success factors for CSR implementation are identified and presented. For gathering data and sampling, the banking sector of Iran was selected as the case study of this research. Based on the viewpoint of the experts of this research, 23 CSFs for CSR implementation were identified and then the importance of these CSFs was determined. This is an innovative study in the field of CSR in the banking sector that presents a new category for critical success factors for CSR implementation. All the identified CSFs are categorized into the five main sections of the organizational functional areas. These functional areas include financial, marketing, environmental, strategic and human resources.Originality/valueThis study first provides a framework for CSR implementation in the banking sector. Also the main CSFs are identified and ranked. By means of the results of this study, decision makers in the field will be more familiar with CSR and can make higher decisions for the chief departments of the organization. Finally academicians in the field can use the framework of this research and develop CSR for other organizations and sectors of business.
Association between vision impairment and driving exposure in older adults aged 70 years and over: a population‐based examination
Authors: Sandlin Daniel , McGwin Gerald , Owsley Cynthia 
Published: April 2013

Abstract.Purpose:  To examine the relationship between vision impairment and driving exposure (amount of driving one does) in a population‐based sample of older drivers and to examine to what extent cognitive status impacts this relationship.Methods:  Enrollees consisted of a population‐based sample of older adults from Alabama who were ≥70 years old, held a current driver’s license, and had driven within the last 3 months. Three aspects of visual function were measured under binocular conditions – habitual distance visual acuity, contrast sensitivity and visual processing speed. General cognitive status was assessed with the mini‐mental status examination. Driving exposure was estimated by the Driving Habits Questionnaire that asked about the number of miles, places, trips and days driven per week.Results:  Drivers with impaired contrast sensitivity exhibited reduced annual mileage, and a decreased number of places and trips driven per week compared to those with normal contrast sensitivity, even after adjustment for other factors. Slowed visual processing speed was associated with reduced number of days driven per week after adjustment. Visual acuity deficit was not associated with changes in driving exposure. Cognitive status did not impact any of the associations between vision impairment and driving exposure.Conclusion:  Older drivers with contrast sensitivity impairment exhibit reduced driving exposure in terms of number of trips and places they drive per week, as well as decreased annual mileage. These apparent self‐regulatory practices should be viewed as adaptive because contrast sensitivity impairment elevates motor vehicle collision (MVC) risk and reduction in driving exposure can reduce MVC risk.
Use of the SAND balloon catheter in single‐incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy for acute cholecystitis
Authors: Ikegami Toru , Shirabe Ken , Yoshizumi Tomoharu , Kayashima Hiroto , Maehara Yoshihiko 
Published: April 2013

AbstractIntroductionSILS for acute cholecystitis is technically challenging because of the difficulties in obtaining optical surgical field.Materials and Surgical TechniqueA 2‐cm incision was made through the umbilicus, a single port and trocars were introduced, and the abdomen was then insufflated. A 5‐mm SAND balloon punctured the abdominal wall and then the gallbladder wall. The distal and proximal balloons were inflated to prevent bile leakage, and the bile was aspirated. The collapsed gallbladder was then retracted cephalad, the critical structures were exposed, and the cystic artery and duct were divided. The gallbladder was dissected and removed through the umbilicus, and the abdomen was closed. We performed this procedure in three cases with acute cholecystitis. Operative times were 95, 133 and 244 min, blood loss was 5, 10 and 43 mL, and postoperative hospital stay was 2, 2 and 3 days, respectively.DiscussionThe single‐incision laparoscopic approach with the SAND balloon is a feasible technique for acute cholecystitis.
Protection by Hydrogen Against Gamma Ray‐Induced Testicular Damage in Rats
Authors: Jiang Zhitao , Xu Bo , Yang Mowen , Li Zhaozhu , Zhang Yubo , Jiang Dapeng 
Published: April 2013

AbstractThe aim of this study was to investigate the possible protective role of hydrogen‐rich saline solution (HRSS) and WR‐2721 on the testicular damage induced by irradiation. Sprague‐Dawley rats were randomly divided into four groups. Group I served as control group. Rats in group II were exposed to the irradiation. The animals in group III and IV were injected intraperitoneally with HRSS (5 ml/kg) and WR‐2721 (200 mg/kg), respectively, 15 min. before the start of gamma irradiation. Testis weight, testis dimensions, sperm count, sperm motility, apoptosis index and biochemical assays were assessed after a 4‐day initiation of irradiation. Testis weight, testis dimensions, sperm count, sperm motility in group II were significantly lower compared with those in the control group, whereas they were higher in the HRSS and WR‐2721 group. Apoptosis index was significantly increased in group II. Treatment of rats with HRSS and WR‐2721 significantly reduced the apoptosis index. On the other hand, irradiation markedly decreased activities of SOD. Activities of SOD were significantly improved when treated with HRSS and WR‐2721. Significant increase in the MDA level was observed in group II. MDA levels of group III and IV were significantly lowered when compared with group II. HRSS also played a significant role in the recovery of serum testosterone levels. The results from this experimental study suggest that hydrogen has a possible protective effect against radiation‐induced testicular damage.
Association of human cytomegalovirus DNAaemia and specific granzyme B responses in lung transplant recipients
Authors: Weseslindtner L , Kerschner H , Steinacher D , Kundi M , Jaksch P , Simon B , Hatos-Agyi L , Scheed A , Klepetko W , Puchhammer-Stöckl E 
Published: April 2013

Summary
In lung transplant recipients (LTRs), human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) DNAaemia could be associated with HCMV disease and reduced allograft survival. In the present study we analysed whether or not HCMV-specific granzyme B (Grz-B) responses indicating CD8+ T cell cytotoxicity exert an impact on HCMV DNAaemia and relate to specific interferon (IFN)-γ secretion. HCMV-specific Grz-B responses were quantitated by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) in 70 samples from 39 HCMV seropositive LTRs who were prospectively investigated for HCMV DNA plasma levels and IFN-γ kinetics using a standardized CD8+ T cell assay (QuantiFERON®-CMV assay). In all LTRs who were protected from HCMV DNAaemia by early and persistent IFN-γ responses, Grz-B responses were also detected. In LTRs who developed episodes of HCMV DNAaemia, the Grz-B responses which were detected prior to viral DNA detection differed significantly in patients who experienced episodes with high (exceeding 1000 copies/ml) and low plasma DNA levels (P = 0·0290, Fisher's exact test). Furthermore, the extent of Grz-B release prior to viral DNAaemia correlated statistically with the detected levels of IFN-γ (P &lt; 0·0001, Spearman's rank test). Of note, simultaneous detection of Grz-B and IFN-γ secretion was associated significantly with protection from high HCMV DNA plasma levels during the subsequent follow-up (P = 0·0057, Fisher's exact test), and this association was stronger than for IFN-γ detection alone. We conclude that, in addition to IFN-γ responses, Grz-B secretion by CD8+ T cells is essential to control HCMV replication and a simultaneous measurement of IFN-γ and Grz-B could contribute to the immune monitoring of LTRs.
In Praise of a Model but Not Its Conclusions: Commentary on Cooper, Catmur, and Heyes (2012)
Authors: Bertenthal Bennett I. , Scheutz Matthias 
Published: April 2013

AbstractCooper et al. (this issue) develop an interactive activation model of spatial and imitative compatibilities that simulates the key results from Catmur and Heyes (2011) and thus conclude that both compatibilities are mediated by the same processes since their single model can predict all the results. Although the model is impressive, the conclusions are premature because they are based on an incomplete review of the relevant literature and because the model includes some questionable assumptions. Moreover, a competing model (Scheutz & Bertenthal, 2012) is introduced that suggests the two compatibilities are not mediated by the same processes. We propose that more research is necessary before concluding that spatial and imitative compatibilities are mediated by the same processes.
Higher genetic diversity is associated with stable water refugia for a gecko with a wide distribution in aridAustralia
Authors: Duckett Paul E. , Stow Adam J. 
Published: April 2013

AbstractAimThose locations and features providing refugia for species during unfavourable climatic phases may be important to identify and conserve to help protect biodiversity in the near future. During the Pleistocene, climates oscillated between glacial and interglacial periods. In the Northern Hemisphere, the impact from glacial ice sheets caused species to disperse to warmer southern refugia, but less is known about changes to species' distributions during these periods in the Southern Hemisphere.LocationIn Australia, the climate alternated between highly arid and wetter periods during the Pleistocene. It has been proposed that arid refugia may be associated with the inland ranges (areas of higher relief), the mesic east, or areas that maintained favourable species‐specific ecological conditions. We tested these hypotheses with a phylogeographical analysis of a widely distributed tree‐dwelling gecko,Gehyra variegata(2n = 40a chromosomal race) throughout the central and eastern regions of arid Australia.MethodsWe generated a mtDNAsequence and microsatellite dataset by sampling 740G. variegata40athroughout its known distribution. We also use species distribution modelling to predict the species' likely past, present and future distribution.ResultsThe majority ofG. variegata40alineages diverged during the Pleistocene, and those located in regions of arid Australia where mean annual water run‐off is highest, displayed higher levels of genetic diversity in comparison locations with lower run‐off. We also show that genetic diversity increased with proximity to water sources.Main conclusionsIt is likely thatG. variegata40acontracted to refugia associated with stable water sources during Pleistocene arid phases. However, modelling suggests that unfavourable climate conditions will be present in this region by 2070. Therefore, Pleistocene refugia forG. variegata40aare unlikely to be refugia in the future. More generally, our results suggest that water run‐off could be a useful predictor to identify favourable conditions for some arid species.
Validating the dental subscale of the children's fear survey schedule using Rasch analysis
Authors: Lopes David , Arnrup Kristina , Robertson Agneta , Lundgren Jesper 
Published: April 2013

Rasch analysis was used to examine the validity of the Children's Fear Survey Schedule – Dental Subscale (CFSS‐DS). Data were collected from parents of children in regular dental care (n = 240) and from parents of children referred to a specialized pediatric dental clinic (n = 200). The Rasch model is a probabilistic model in which estimations are based on the relationship between person ability and item difficulty, and the present study investigated the validity of the CFSS‐DS through analysis of person and item fit, dimensionality, ordering of thresholds, local dependency, and differential item functioning. The results show multidimensionality of the original scale, and an adjusted version consisting of six items with good fit to the model is suggested. The adjusted scale makes interval‐level analysis possible, and time efficiency and elimination of previously criticized items argue in favor of the adjusted scale.
NADPH oxidase is a novel target of delphinidin for the inhibition of UVB‐induced MMP‐1 expression in human dermal fibroblasts
Authors: Lim Tae‐Gyu , Jung Sung Keun , Kim Jong‐eun , Kim Yoona , Lee Hyong Joo , Jang Tae Su , Lee Ki Won 
Published: April 2013

AbstractWe investigated the reported antiphotoaging effects of the major anthocyanidin delphidin and sought to identify its specific molecular target during UVB‐induced MMP‐1 expression. Delphinidin treatment significantly inhibited UVB‐induced MMP‐1 expression in primary cultured human dermal fibroblasts (HDF), an effect associated with the suppression of MKK4‐JNK1/2, MKK3/6‐p38 and MEK‐ERK1/2 phosphorylation. Further investigation revealed that delphinidin significantly inhibited UVB‐induced ROS production and NOX activity. Interestingly, the inhibitory effect of delphinidin on UVB‐induced NOX activity was stronger than that of apocynin, a pharmaceutical NOX inhibitor. Fractioned cell analysis results using a Western blot assay showed that this effect occurred through the inhibition of UVB‐induced P47phox (a NOX subunit) translocation from the cytosol to the membrane. Pull down assays demonstrated that delphinidin binds directly to P47phox in vitro. Collectively, our results suggest that delphinidin targets NOX, resulting in the suppression of UVB‐induced MMP‐1 expression in human dermal fibroblasts.
Projecting demographic responses to climate change: adult and juvenile survival respond differently to direct and indirect effects of weather in a passerine population
Authors: Dybala Kristen E. , Eadie John M. , Gardali Thomas , Seavy Nathaniel E. , Herzog Mark P. 
Published: April 2013

AbstractFew studies have quantitatively projected changes in demography in response to climate change, yet doing so can provide important insights into the processes that may lead to population declines and changes in species distributions. Using a long‐term mark‐recapture data set, we examined the influence of multiple direct and indirect effects of weather on adult and juvenile survival for a population of Song Sparrows (Melospiza melodia) in California. We found evidence for a positive, direct effect of winter temperature on adult survival, and a positive, indirect effect of prior rainy season precipitation on juvenile survival, which was consistent with an effect of precipitation on food availability during the breeding season. We used these relationships, and climate projections of significantly warmer and slightly drier winter weather by the year 2100, to project a significant increase in mean adult survival (12–17%) and a slight decrease in mean juvenile survival (4–6%) under the B1 and A2 climate change scenarios. Together with results from previous studies on seasonal fecundity and postfledging survival in this population, we integrated these results in a population model and projected increases in the population growth rate under both climate change scenarios. Our results underscore the importance of considering multiple, direct, and indirect effects of weather throughout the annual cycle, as well as differences in the responses of each life stage to climate change. Projecting demographic responses to climate change can identify not only how populations will be affected by climate change but also indicate the demographic process(es) and specific mechanisms that may be responsible. This information can, in turn, inform climate change adaptation plans, help prioritize future research, and identify where limited conservation resources will be most effectively and efficiently spent.
Effect of Particle Size on the Optical Properties of Yellow Silicate Phosphor in Light‐Emitting Diodes
Authors: Jang Min‐Suk , Kim Wan‐Ho , Kang Young‐Rae , Song Sang‐Bin , Kim Jae‐Pil , Kim Jin‐Hyeok 
Published: April 2013

Understanding the effect of particle size on the optical properties of phosphor is important to increase packaging efficiency in white light‐emitting diodes (LEDs). We have investigated the effect of particle size (10–20 μm, 20–25 μm, 25–32 μm) on the optical properties of a yellow silicate phosphor adopted in white LEDs. X‐ray diffraction results show negligible modification in crystallinity as the particle size of the yellow silicate phosphor varies, whereas the photoluminescence excitation intensity and quantum yield are enhanced as the particle size increased. LED packages fabricated using phosphors with different mean particle sizes, and their optical properties were analyzed. The radiant flux improved with increasing particle size, whereas the luminous flux increased with decreasing particle size. The effect of immersion on the optical properties of the LED light source has been also measured, and the details are discussed.