bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Treatment Strategies for Genu Recurvatum in Adult Patients With Hemiparesis: A Case Series
Authors: Appasamy Malathy , De Witt Michelle E. , Patel Nisha , Yeh Nancy , Bloom Ona , Oreste Anthony 
Published: November 2014

AbstractObjectiveTo report our clinical experience and propose a biomechanical factor–based treatment strategy for improvement of genu recurvatum (GR) to reduce the need for knee‐ankle‐foot orthosis (KAFO) or surgical treatment.DesignCase series.SettingOutpatient clinic of a Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation in an academic medical center.Subjects and InterventionsAdult subjects (n = 22) with hemiparesis and GR who received botulinum injections alone or in combination with multiple types of orthotic interventions that included solid ankle‐foot orthosis (AFO) ± heel lift, hinged AFO with an adjustable posterior stop ± heel lift, AFO with dual‐channel ankle joint ± heel lift, or KAFO with offset knee joint. Biomechanical factors reviewed included muscle strength, modified Ashworth score for spasticity, presence of clonus, posterior capsule laxity, sensory deficits, and proprioception.Outcome MeasurementsOutcome factors were improvement or elimination of GR based on subjective assessment before and after the interventions by the same experienced clinician.ResultsMore than one biomechanical factor contributed to GR in all patients. Botulinum toxin A injection was used in patients who had significant plantar flexor spasticity and/or clonus. Four types of orthotic interventions were used based on the biomechanical factor: solid AFO in patients with severe ankle dorsiflexion and plantar flexion weakness or clonus; hinged ankle joint with adjustable posterior stop in patients with less severe ankle dorsiflexion weakness in the absence of clonus; AFO with a dual‐channel ankle joint for quadriceps weakness or severe proprioceptive deficits; and KAFO with offset knee joints in patients with Achilles tendon contracture or severe proprioceptive deficits. Adjunctive options included the addition of heel lifts and toeplate modifications. Combinatorial interventions of botulinum injection, modified AFOs, and heel lifts improved or eliminated GR and avoided the need for cumbersome orthotics or surgical interventions.ConclusionsGR in hemiparesis is multifactorial and can be successfully controlled by using a conservative biomechanical factor–based approach and combined medical and orthotic interventions. An algorithmic approach and a prospective study design is proposed to determine a combination of effective interventions to correct GR.
Genome-wide scan demonstrates significant linkage for male sexual orientation
Authors: Sanders A. R. , Martin E. R. , Beecham G. W. , Guo S. , Dawood K. , Rieger G. , Badner J. A. , Gershon E. S. , Krishnappa R. S. , Kolundzija A. B. , Duan J. , Gejman P. V. , Bailey J. M. 
Published: November 2014

BackgroundFindings from family and twin studies support a genetic contribution to the development of sexual orientation in men. However, previous studies have yielded conflicting evidence for linkage to chromosome Xq28.MethodWe conducted a genome-wide linkage scan on 409 independent pairs of homosexual brothers (908 analyzed individuals in 384 families), by far the largest study of its kind to date.ResultsWe identified two regions of linkage: the pericentromeric region on chromosome 8 (maximum two-point LOD = 4.08, maximum multipoint LOD = 2.59), which overlaps with the second strongest region from a previous separate linkage scan of 155 brother pairs; and Xq28 (maximum two-point LOD = 2.99, maximum multipoint LOD = 2.76), which was also implicated in prior research.ConclusionsResults, especially in the context of past studies, support the existence of genes on pericentromeric chromosome 8 and chromosome Xq28 influencing development of male sexual orientation.
How Well Can We Detect Shifts in Rates of Lineage Diversification? A Simulation Study of Sequential AIC Methods
Authors: May Michael R. , Moore Brian R. 
Published: November 2014

AbstractEvolutionary biologists have long been fascinated by the extreme differences in species numbers across branches of the Tree of Life. This has motivated the development of statistical phylogenetic methods for detecting shifts in the rate of lineage diversification (speciation – extinction). One of the most frequently used methods—implemented in the programMEDUSA—explores a set of diversification-rate models, where each model uniquely assigns branches of the phylogeny to a set of one or more diversification-rate categories. Each candidate model is first fit to the data, and the Akaike Information Criterion (AIC) is then used to identify the optimal diversification model. Surprisingly, the statistical behavior of this popular method is completely unknown, which is a concern in light of the poor performance of the AIC as a means of choosing among models in other phylogenetic comparative contexts, and also because of thead hocalgorithm used to visit models. Here, we perform an extensive simulation study demonstrating that, as implemented,MEDUSA(1) has an extremely high Type I error rate (on average, spurious diversification-rate shifts are identified 42% of the time), and (2) provides severely biased parameter estimates (on average, estimated net-diversification and relative-extinction rates are 183% and 20% of their true values, respectively). We performed simulation experiments to reveal the source(s) of these pathologies, which include (1) the use of incorrect critical thresholds for model selection, and (2) errors in the likelihood function. Understanding the statistical behavior ofMEDUSAis critical both to empirical researchers—in order to clarify whether these methods can reliably be applied to empirical datasets—and to theoretical biologists—in order to clarify whether new methods are required, and to reveal the specific problems that need to be solved in order to develop more reliable approaches for detecting shifts in the rate of lineage diversification.
A robust statistical framework for reconstructing genomes from metagenomic data
Authors: Kang Dongwan D. , Froula Jeff , Egan Rob , Wang Zhong 
Published: November 2014

ABSTRACTWe present software that reconstructs genomes from shotgun metagenomic sequences using a reference-independent approach. This method permits the identification of OTUs in large complex communities where many species are unknown. Binning reduces the complexity of a metagenomic dataset enabling many downstream analyses previously unavailable. In this study we developed MetaBAT, a robust statistical framework that integrates probabilistic distances of genome abundance with sequence composition for automatic binning. Applying MetaBAT to a human gut microbiome dataset identified 173 highly specific genomes bins including many representing previously unidentified species.
How small can a dwelling be? A revision of Portuguese building regulations
Authors: António Costa Branco de Oliveira Pedro João 
Published: November 2014

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to study the minimum necessary net internal area of dwellings that should be established by Portuguese building regulations.Design/methodology/approachThe following tasks are carried out: selecting the furniture and equipment necessary for each dwelling; determining the size of furniture and equipment and its typical arrangement; conceiving models of functional spaces; determining the net area of functional spaces and dwellings; comparing results with statistics on housing construction in Portugal and with mandatory area standards used in Portugal and ten other European countries.FindingsThe paper finds that the net internal area presently set by Portuguese building regulations should be increased by 5 to 15 percent. The net internal area figure obtained by the study is similar to mandatory regulations established by some other European countries.Research limitations/implicationsThe study focuses on the net internal area of dwellings, although other space standards are also important to assuring the practicability of dwelling spaces; area standards were set on the basis of the current Portuguese situation and required adaptation when used in different social, cultural and economic contexts; area standards constitute a safety‐net against unacceptable dwellings rather than good practice guidelines.Practical implicationsThe results may be used to support a review of Portuguese building regulations and provide guidelines for the design of dwellings.Originality/valueA methodology to determine area standards is presented and applied. Up‐to‐date information on furniture size and arrangements is collected. The comparison enables an understanding of how the results compare in a European context.
Innovation by harmonizing continuity and change
Authors: Bhat J.S.A. , Sushil  , Jain P.K. 
Published: November 2014

PurposeThe objective of this paper is to present a broad‐based tool primarily for the use of practitioners at the senior and middle management levels, to analyze the innovation management processes within their organizations and assess their impact on innovation and firm performance. It is contended that these processes are dichotomous because of the invariable tension between continuity and change‐related aspects to be coped with.Design/methodology/approachA single case (Moser Baer India Limited, an Indian firm and one of the world's large manufacturers of optical storage media) illustrating the use of a flowing stream strategy framework is presented. The theory that is the basis of the approach is not expounded at length in the interests of the basic target audience.FindingsThe paper is an attempt to present a structured approach to strategy making. Realizing the hazards of organizational impediments in the implementation of strategy, only an illustrative approach is been indicated, paving the way for further investigation.Research limitations/implicationsThe limitations associated with a single case methodology may prevail to some extent. The data are context‐bound; however, no attempt to draw general implications has been made. The purpose is more to present the use of a practical tool rather than to advance theoretical knowledge.Practical implicationsThe tool presented may be useful across a range of organizations, with minor adaptations.Originality/valueThe paper is original and adds value in terms of the above.
The campaign to end loneliness
Authors: Ferguson Laura 
Published: November 2014

PurposeThis paper aims to give an overview of the issue of loneliness, an update of issues heard of from across the country, as well as some positive stories and projects being delivered to alleviate loneliness in older age.Design/methodology/approachThis paper describes the current research into loneliness in older age, including related health issues and anecdotal evidence from local groups linking reductions in services with increased levels of loneliness in older age.FindingsLoneliness is a highly subjective emotion that is difficult and complex to measure. However, research has shown that men and women are affected differently. It has been shown to have strong links to health issues such as depression, Alzheimer's and heart disease as well as having been shown to be a bigger risk factor in early mortality than lifelong smoking and obesity.Originality/valueThis paper highlights the first steps being taken by organisations working, under the umbrella of a recently launched Campaign to End Loneliness, towards further reducing loneliness in older age.
Promoting involvement of older people in shaping policy and practice
Authors: Wood Christine , Wright Mel 
Published: November 2014

PurposeThis paper seeks to examine the social construction and barriers that older people face and through two case studies from the Northeast of England and London illustrate how older people can be effectively enabled to influence their communities and the services that impact on their lives.Design/methodology/approachAge Concern Durham County created a ten‐hour introductory level course called “The Confident Consumer”. This includes basic assertiveness skills, advice on how to challenge discrimination, and uses role play to improve communication skills for older people.FindingsThe case studies have demonstrated that older people do want to be involved and are enthusiastic participants when given the opportunity to use their voice.Originality/valueBy reaching out to older people and working actively in partnership with service providers, older people can help to shape their own world.
The Wellbeing Project: improving the psychological wellbeing of older adults
Authors: Clark Suzannah , Jackson Leila 
Published: November 2014

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to detail the Wellbeing Project that was developed by Manchester Mental Health and Social Care Trust, in partnership with Manchester City Council.Design/methodology/approachA group‐based cognitive behavioural therapy intervention (“Be Well, Age Well”) was written specifically to help improve the mood and wellbeing of older adults.FindingsA preliminary evaluation showed promising results and in response to a significant increase in demand for continued delivery of the intervention, there are now plans to examine the feasibility of non mental health qualified staff facilitating the course. Funding is currently being sought for a more definitive study.Originality/valueThe Wellbeing Project believes that if older adults are educated via the approach as adopted by the “Be Well, Age Well” course, the level of resilience will improve for those individuals who would otherwise have experienced compromised wellbeing.
Hazardous immorality: strategic externalization of risk and credit pricing
Authors: Chapman Zaneta , Getzen Thomas 
Published: November 2014

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to examine the risks caused by “hazardously immoral” contracts which force external parties to bear significant losses without their consent.Design/methodology/approachThe expectation of substantial future losses raises the question of how investors can become profitable by entering into such risky contracts. The authors investigate the use of such contracts, which obscure the expected cost of failure by not only concentrating risks but ultimately not taking routine charges for predictable, albeit uncertain, future losses. In their investigation, the authors look at a risk concentration strategy and discuss expected profits (losses) under conditions of limited and unlimited liability.FindingsIt is found that companies are more likely to minimize losses and maximize profits if they can obtain credit at a low enough interest rate and externalize the majority of the risk. Risks are more likely to be externalized when government and/or international agencies bail out the offending organizations to limit total damages and stabilize the economy.Originality/valueThe main contribution of the paper is to show that a risk concentration strategy can be used to make the overall probability of winning arbitrarily large, even when individual trials have less than a 50 percent chance of obtaining positive profits. The corollary lesson is that credit is valuable, and having substantial credit obtainable at low rates is so valuable that significant gains are probable despite negative expected profits.
Trust in the team leader: operationalization of the construct in an R&D context
Authors: Freire Carla 
Published: November 2014

PurposeThe aim of this paper is to suggest an instrument to measure trust in a team leader, within an R&D context.Design/methodology/approachThe material was collated from available literature and semi‐structured interviews. A total of 192 valid answers were collected from scientists and professionals working in R&D teams in Portugal.FindingsThe factor analysis allowed for the extraction of four components: “integrity”, “benevolence”, “concern”, and “ability”.Research limitations/implicationsThe paper suggests the need to test the validity of the measuring tool in other contexts.Originality/valueA new measurement instrument for trust in the team leader is developed in the context of R&D teams.
Diversity and social capital of nascent entrepreneurial teams in business plan competitions
Authors: Weisz Natalia , Vassolo Roberto S. , Mesquita Luiz , Cooper Arnold C. 
Published: November 2014

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to examine the influence of team member diversity and internal social capital on project performance within the context of business plan competitions (BPCs).Design/methodology/approachThe paper uses survey data on 95 nascent entrepreneurial teams enrolled in an open‐to‐the‐public BPCs. It assumes that higher levels of functional diversity as well as higher levels of internal social capital enhance the performance of nascent entrepreneurial teams in the crafting of their business plans (BPs).FindingsUnder this particular context, where the needs for information processing and decision‐making requirements are so high, teams having higher levels of functional diversity attained better performance. Inversely, teams with higher levels of internal social capital did not show a significant advantage in the development of the BP.Research limitations/implicationsLimitations are associated with the exclusion of external social capital measures and not considering demographic faultlines, which might have some impact on the results. Besides, this paper has the limitation of basing its analysis upon teams within a BP contest. Theoretical implications stress that under contexts maximizing the difference between potential upside gains and downside losses, team diversity is expected to play a larger role for BP effectiveness and success than team members' internal social capital.Practical implicationsRecognizing team prevalence and the impact of social dynamics amongst team members within entrepreneurial settings.Originality/valueThe paper contributes with the impact of social dynamic processes on nascent entrepreneurial teams.
Organizational improvisation: change or stability?
Authors: Vieira da Cunha João , Pina e Cunha Miguel 
Published: November 2014

PurposeSome studies show that improvisation is a source of change, whereas others show that it is a source of stability. The purpose of this paper is to specify the factors which set the boundary between improvised change and improvised stability.Design/methodology/approachThe paper draws on two published studies and contrasts their findings to analyze the extent to which improvisation leads to organizational change or organizational stability.FindingsThe paper suggests that the most innovative instances of improvisation reproduce some features of everyday experience. The extent to which an improvisation is a source of stability or a source of change depends on the dynamics of variation, selection and retention therein.Research limitations/implicationsFuture research needs to add empirical flesh to this theoretical skeleton to push research on organizational improvisation beyond the study of its causes and into further research on its consequences.Originality/valueThe paper deals with the paradox of making sense about two apparently opposing streams of research on improvisation.
Corporate social responsibility: mapping its social meaning
Authors: Patrícia Duarte Ana , Mouro Carla , Gonçalves das Neves José 
Published: November 2014

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to address the social meaning of corporate social responsibility (CSR) and improve understanding of this concept.Design/methodology/approachA free association task was completed by a sample of 275 individuals, mostly employees from different industries, who were given “socially responsible corporation” as the stimulus.FindingsThe results elicit three distinct views of a socially responsible corporation. Some individuals consider a socially responsible corporation to be one that undertakes its business operations in an efficient and ethical manner. Others see it as an organisation that takes an active role in contributing to the well being of society and behaves in an ecologically friendly way and acts in the field of social solidarity. For yet another set of participants a socially responsible corporation is one that adopts human resources practices that demonstrate respect and concern for the well being of employees and their families.Research limitations/implicationsThe social meaning of CSR includes ideas that to some extent mirror the conceptualisation introduced by previous theoretical models. However, this paper suggests that the translation of the theoretical models into instruments addressing stakeholders' perceptions of CSR requires closer scrutiny and validation through contextual (e.g. national) adaptations.Originality/valueThe paper contributes by providing additional knowledge on the social meaning of CSR in a European country, Portugal, and not only on Anglo‐Saxon countries, therefore, introducing specific situational challenges.
Internet interacted: 1991‐2003
Authors: Andonova Veneta , Ladrón de Guevara Antonio , Brousseau Eric 
Published: November 2014

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to examine how the market potential for internet services interacted historically with the diffusion process of fixed line and mobile telephony.Design/methodology/approachThe authors evaluate the historical interactions between internet, fixed line and mobile telephony using the International Telecommunications Union data set from 1991 until 2003 for 214 countries.FindingsIt was found that between 1991 and 2003 mobile and internet services were fully complementary; fixed line facilitated the diffusion of internet service, but internet diffusion did not affect fixed line telephony. The authors discuss the implications of these results in the light of current developments of the telecommunications industry.Research limitations/implicationsInternet adoption should be analysed in close relation to the adoption of other telecommunication services, such as fixed line and mobile telephony.Originality/valueThe paper shows the interconnectivity of the internet with other telecommunication services and emphasizes the asymmetric nature of these interactions. Telecommunication services interactions are discussed in the light of recent industry developments.