Showing papers by "Suffolk University published in 2011"

Mortality after Fluid Bolus in African Children with Severe Infection

Abstract: Methods We randomly assigned children with severe febrile illness and impaired perfusion to receive boluses of 20 to 40 ml of 5% albumin solution (albumin-bolus group) or 0.9% saline solution (saline-bolus group) per kilogram of body weight or no bolus (control group) at the time of admission to a hospital in Uganda, Kenya, or Tanzania (stratum A); children with severe hypotension were randomly assigned to one of the bolus groups only (stratum B). All children received appropriate antimicrobial treatment, intravenous maintenance fluids, and supportive care, according to guidelines. Children with malnutrition or gastroenteritis were excluded. The primary end point was 48-hour mortality; secondary end points included pulmonary edema, increased intracranial pressure, and mortality or neurologic sequelae at 4 weeks. Results The data and safety monitoring committee recommended halting recruitment after 3141 of the projected 3600 children in stratum A were enrolled. Malaria status (57% overall) and clinical severity were similar across groups. The 48-hour mortality was 10.6% (111 of 1050 children), 10.5% (110 of 1047 children), and 7.3% (76 of 1044 children) in the albumin-bolus, saline-bolus, and control groups, respectively (relative risk for saline bolus vs. control, 1.44; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.09 to 1.90; P = 0.01; relative risk for albumin bolus vs. saline bolus, 1.01; 95% CI, 0.78 to 1.29; P = 0.96; and relative risk for any bolus vs. control, 1.45; 95% CI, 1.13 to 1.86; P = 0.003). The 4-week mortality was 12.2%, 12.0%, and 8.7% in the three groups, respectively (P = 0.004 for the comparison of bolus with control). Neurologic sequelae occurred in 2.2%, 1.9%, and 2.0% of the children in the respective groups (P = 0.92), and pulmonary edema or increased intracranial pressure occurred in 2.6%, 2.2%, and 1.7% (P = 0.17), respectively. In stratum B, 69% of the children (9 of 13) in the albuminbolus group and 56% (9 of 16) in the saline-bolus group died (P = 0.45). The results were consistent across centers and across subgroups according to the severity of shock and status with respect to malaria, coma, sepsis, acidosis, and severe anemia. Conclusions Fluid boluses significantly increased 48-hour mortality in critically ill children with impaired perfusion in these resource-limited settings in Africa. (Funded by the Medical Research Council, United Kingdom; FEAST Current Controlled Trials number, ISRCTN69856593.)

Myalgic encephalomyelitis: International Consensus Criteria

Abstract: 12 FatigueConsultationClinic,SaltLake RegionalMedicalCenter; 13 InternalMedicine,FamilyPractice,UniversityofUtah,SaltLakeCity,UT,USA; 14 ME ⁄CFSCenter,OsloUniversity HospitalHF,Norway; 15 DepartmentofPaediatrics,StateUniversityofNewYork,Buffalo,NY,USA; 16 Independent,Pavia,Italy; 17 Harbor-UCLA MedicalCenter,UniversityofCalifornia,LosAngeles,CA; 18 EVMedResearch,Lomita,CA,USA; 19 UniversityofLimerick,Limerick,Ireland; 20 Pain Clinic,KonyangUniversityHospital,Daejeon,Korea; 21 DonvaleSpecialistMedicalCentre,Donvale,Victoria,Australia; 22 Departmentsof Anesthesiology,NeurobiologyandAnatomy,UniversityofUtah,SaltLakeCity,UT,USA; 23 DepartmentofMedicinaNuclear,ClinicaLasCondes, Santiago,Chile; 24 WhittemorePetersonInstitute,UniversityofNevada,Reno,NV,USA; 25 MiwaNaikaClinic,Toyama,Japan; 26 A.Kirchenstein InstituteofMicrobiologyandVirology,RigaStradinsUniversity,Riga,Latvia; 27 DepartmentofBiochemistryBand 28 DepartmentofSportsSciences,UniversityofthePacific,Stockton,CAUSA

Dechlorane Plus and Related Compounds in the Environment: A Review

Abstract: Dechlorane Plus (DP) is a high production volume, chlorinated flame retardant. Despite its long production history, it was only recently found in the environment. The first “sightings” of DP were i...

The shift needed for sustainability

Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of this action research is to begin to assess to what extent organizations have in practice begun to make the shift towards triple bottom line (TBL) sustainability.Design/methodology/approach – A definition of TBL sustainability is provided, and key elements of TBL sustainability considered necessary to success are identified based on current literature and public commentary. An assessment is made via published surveys and an action research study of how these components are being addressed now and for the future. The action research study involved the design and launching of a Zoomerang survey that was posted both in the USA and on international websites and blogs.Findings – The synthesis from the research reveals a lack of a clear definition of sustainability which sets in motion a whole systemic dynamic. The data from the action research exemplify this dynamic. First, there is a pattern of adopting a short‐term focus and expediency in decision making. Second, problem solving favor...

Dependence Structure and Extreme Comovements in International Equity and Bond Markets

Abstract: Common negative extreme variations in returns are prevalent in international equity markets. This has been widely documented with statistical tools such as exceedance correlation, extreme value theory, and Gaussian bivariate GARCH or regime-switching models. We point to limits of these tools to characterize extreme dependence and propose an alternative regime-switching copula model that includes one normal regime in which dependence is symmetric and a second regime characterized by asymmetric dependence. We apply this model to international equity and bond markets, to allow for inter-market movements. Empirically, we find that dependence between international assets of the same type is strong in both regimes, especially in the asymmetric one, but weak between equities and bonds, even in the same country.

Student Attitudes and Behaviors Towards Digital Textbooks

Abstract: The purpose of this article is to add to the collective body of knowledge on student behavior and attitudes relative to the adoption of digital textbooks. The article summarizes an ongoing research project that examines past, current and evolving behavior in the classroom related to digital textbooks and school. It includes students, faculty and administrative attitudes behaviors and perceptions. This research was undertaken at the Sawyer Business School of Suffolk University in Boston, Massachusetts. Student attitudes and behavior toward their use of digital textbooks (eTextbooks) in higher education was examined in an ongoing longitudinal study over two years at Sawyer Business School, Suffolk University. Students in the class were divided into six teams. Five of the teams were assigned an eTextbook device and the sixth team was given a paper textbook for use through the semester. The digital technologies examined were: Amazon Kindle, Sony eReader Touch, Apple iPad, enTourage eDGe, and CourseSmart. Student attitudes and behaviors were examined pre and post class by survey each semester, and during the semesters through quizzes, journals and classroom discussion. Differential learning was measured between the six teams. Student attitudes and behaviors are becoming more receptive to and accepting of using digital textbooks each year. There was no significant difference in learning between the eTextbook devices teams or between them and the paper textbook team.

Where is the Accountability in International Accountability Standards?: A Decoupling Perspective

Abstract: A common complaint by academics and practitioners is that the application of international accountability standards (IAS) does not lead to significant improvements in an organization's social responsibility. When organizations espouse their commitment to IAS but do not put forth the effort necessary to operationally enact that commitment, a "credibility cover" is created that perpetuates business as usual. In other words, the legitimacy that organizations gain by formally adopting the standards may shield the organization from closer scrutiny, thus enabling rather than constraining the types of activities the standards were designed to discourage.There is a lack of research on why certain types of IAS are more prone than others to being decoupled from organizational practices. Applying a neo-institutional perspective to IAS, we theorize that the structural dimensions of the types of standards themselves can increase the likelihood of organizations adopting IAS standards in form but not in function.

Patients’ views of nurse prescribing: effects on care, concordance and medicine taking

Abstract: Background Skin disease can have a huge impact on quality of life for patients and their families. Nurses have an important role in the delivery of specialist dermatology services, and prescribing enhances the care they provide. The views of dermatology patients about nurse prescribing are unknown. Objectives To explore the views of dermatology patients about nurse prescribing, and its impact on medicines management and concordance. Methods Semistructured interviews were undertaken with a consecutive sample of 42 patients with acne, psoriasis or eczema who attended the clinics of seven dermatology specialist nurse prescribers. Primary and secondary care clinics were included to reflect settings in which nurses typically prescribe for patients within specialist dermatology services in England. Interviews addressed the effects of nurse prescribing on care, the patient’s medicine regimen, involvement in treatment decisions and concordance, and influences on medicine taking. Results Patients believed that nurse prescribing improved access to, and efficiency of, dermatology services. Great value was placed on telephone contact with nurses, and local access. Information exchange and involvement in treatment decisions ensured that treatment plans were appropriate and motivated adherence. Nurses’ specialist knowledge, interactive and caring consultation style, and continuity of care improved confidence in the nurse and treatment concordance. Conclusions Nurse prescribing can increase the efficiency of dermatology services. Patients experienced active involvement in decisions about their treatment which in turn contributed to concordance and adherence to treatment regimens. This study has important implications for maximizing resource use and improving access to and quality of care in dermatology specialist services.

Conflict between Genetic and Phenotypic Differentiation: The Evolutionary History of a ‘Lost and Rediscovered’ Shorebird

Abstract: Understanding and resolving conflicts between phenotypic and genetic differentiation is central to evolutionary research. While phenotypically monomorphic species may exhibit deep genetic divergences, some morphologically distinct taxa lack notable genetic differentiation. Here we conduct a molecular investigation of an enigmatic shorebird with a convoluted taxonomic history, the White-faced Plover (Charadrius alexandrinus dealbatus), widely regarded as a subspecies of the Kentish Plover (C. alexandrinus). Described as distinct in 1863, its name was consistently misapplied in subsequent decades until taxonomic clarification ensued in 2008. Using a recently proposed test of species delimitation, we reconfirm the phenotypic distinctness of dealbatus. We then compare three mitochondrial and seven nuclear DNA markers among 278 samples of dealbatus and alexandrinus from across their breeding range and four other closely related plovers. We fail to find any population genetic differentiation between dealbatus and alexandrinus, whereas the other species are deeply diverged at the study loci. Kentish Plovers join a small but growing list of species for which low levels of genetic differentiation are accompanied by the presence of strong phenotypic divergence, suggesting that diagnostic phenotypic characters may be encoded by few genes that are difficult to detect. Alternatively, gene expression differences may be crucial in producing different phenotypes whereas neutral differentiation may be lagging behind.

Determination of Solubility Parameters for Organic Semiconductor Formulations

Abstract: The concept of Hansen solubility parameters (HSP) is applied to organic semiconductors in order to determine and predict their solubility behavior, which is essential for the design of functional and environmentally friendly ink formulations for organic photovoltaics. Two different conjugated polymers, one semicrystalline and one dominantly amorphous, and one fullerene derivative are selected as prototype candidates to evaluate the applicability of the HSP concept for organic semiconductors. The method for determining the solubility parameters is described and the quality of the HSP fits as well as their suitability for designing of organic electronic inks are discussed in detail.

Reconciling single-species TACs in the North Sea demersal fisheries using the Fcube mixed-fisheries advice framework

Abstract: Single-species management is a cause of discarding in mixed fisheries, because individual management objectives may not be consistent with each other and the species are caught simultaneously in relatively unselective fishing operations. As such, the total allowable catch (TAC) of one species may be exhausted before the TAC of another, leading to catches of valuable fish that cannot be landed legally. This important issue is, however, usually not quantified and not accounted for in traditional management advice. A simple approach using traditional catch and effort information was developed, estimating catch potentials for distinct fleets (groups of vessels) and metiers (type of activity), and hence quantifying the risks of over- and underquota utilization for the various stocks. This method, named Fcube (Fleet and Fisheries Forecast), was applied successfully to international demersal fisheries in the North Sea and shaped into the advice framework. The substantial overquota catches of North Sea cod likely under the current fisheries regimes are quantified, and it is estimated that the single-species management targets for North Sea cod cannot be achieved unless substantial reductions in TACs of all other stocks and corresponding effort reductions are applied.

Shedding Light on Fish Otolith Biomineralization Using a Bioenergetic Approach

Abstract: Otoliths are biocalcified bodies connected to the sensory system in the inner ears of fish. Their layered, biorhythm-following formation provides individual records of the age, the individual history and the natural environment of extinct and living fish species. Such data are critical for ecosystem and fisheries monitoring. They however often lack validation and the poor understanding of biomineralization mechanisms has led to striking examples of misinterpretations and subsequent erroneous conclusions in fish ecology and fisheries management. Here we develop and validate a numerical model of otolith biomineralization. Based on a general bioenergetic theory, it disentangles the complex interplay between metabolic and temperature effects on biomineralization. This model resolves controversial issues and explains poorly understood observations of otolith formation. It represents a unique simulation tool to improve otolith interpretation and applications, and, beyond, to address the effects of both climate change and ocean acidification on other biomineralizing organisms such as corals and bivalves.

Acceptance‐based behavioral therapy for GAD: effects on outcomes from three theoretical models

Abstract: Although cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is efficacious in the treatment of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), many individuals remain symptomatic following treatment, indicating a need for further treatment development As a result, many researchers have developed unique cognitive-behavioral therapies that highlight specific targets for intervention The current study examined the effect of an acceptance-based behavioral therapy for GAD on the proposed targets for intervention highlighted in several of these theoretical models: emotion regulation difficulties, intolerance of uncertainty, and low perceptions of control Clients were randomly assigned to immediate (n = 15) or delayed (n = 16) treatment Individuals treated with the acceptance-based behavioral therapy reported significantly fewer difficulties in emotion regulation and fear of emotional responses, as well as greater tolerance of uncertainty and perceived control over anxiety than individuals in the waitlist control condition In addition, these effects were maintained at 3- and 9-month follow-up assessments

Emerging Trends in Global Ethics: A Comparative Study of U.S. and International Family Business Values

Abstract: Although family business comprises the majority of global business, it is significantly under-researched. Yet it is considered to have unique ethical values compared to non-family corporations. This is attributable to its family orientation. Therefore, it is worthwhile to identify and define dominant family business ethics values. The authors compare a sample of the U.S. family business, U.S. corporate entities, and international family business mission statements for frequency of ethics values. The data reveals three primary findings: (1) generally, the U.S. family business expressed a higher frequency of ethical values than its non-family corporate and international counterpart, (2) U.S. family business has a strong lead in “integrity” and “honesty” whereas international family business leads in “environmentalism,” “globalism,” and “social responsibility,” and (3) generally, the frequency of ethics values for all family business globally has increased over time. The family business mission statement continues to provide ethical direction for the majority of global business. The emerging family business values identified in our sample will further impact global business success and promote ethical sustainability world-wide.

Overfishing of top predators eroded the resilience of the Black Sea system regardless of the climate and anthropogenic conditions

Abstract: It is well known that human activities, such as harvesting, have had major direct effects on marine ecosystems. However, it is far less acknowledged that human activities in the surroundings might have important effects on marine systems. There is growing evidence suggesting that major reorganization (i.e., a regime shift) is a common feature in the temporal evolution of a marine system. Here we show, and quantify, the interaction of human activities (nutrient upload) with a favourable climate (run-off) and its contribution to the eutrophication of the Black Sea in the 1980s. Based on virtual analysis of the bottom-up (eutrophication) vs. top-down (trophic cascades) effects, we found that an earlier onset of eutrophication could have counteracted the restructuring of the trophic regulation at the base of the food web that resulted from the depletion of top predators in the 1970s. These enhanced bottom-up effects would, however, not propagate upwards in the food web beyond the zooplankton level. Our simulations identified the removal of apex predators as a key element in terms of loss of resilience that inevitably leads to a reorganization. Once the food web has been truncated, the type and magnitude of interventions on the group replacing the apex predator as the new upper trophic level have no effect in preventing the trophic cascade. By characterizing the tipping point at which increased bottom-up forcing exactly counteracts the top-down cascading effects, our results emphasize the importance of a comprehensive analysis that take into account all structuring forces at play (including those beyond the marine system) at a given time.

Importance of specimen length during temporal artery biopsy.

Abstract: Background: Variations in surgical technique of temporal artery biopsy (TAB) performed for diagnosis of giant cell arteritis (GCA) may contribute to high false-negative rates. This was a retrospective analysis of a large database that explored potential associations between specimen length and diagnostic sensitivity of TAB. Methods: Histopathological reports and medical records of patients who underwent TAB in six hospitals between 2004 and 2009 were reviewed. Results: A total of 966 biopsies were analysed. The median postfixation specimen length was 1 (range 0·1–8·5) cm and 207 biopsies (21·4 per cent) were positive for GCA. Significant variation in prebiopsy erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), arterial specimen length and positive results was noted amongst hospitals. Multivariable analysis revealed that patient age, ESR value and specimen length were independent predictors of GCA. Positive biopsies had significantly longer median specimen length compared with negative biopsies: 1·2 (range 0·3–8·5) versus 1·0 (0·2–8·0) cm respectively (P = 0·001). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis identified postfixation specimen length of at least 0·7 cm as the cut-off length with highest positive predictive value for a positive biopsy (area under ROC curve 0·574). Biopsies with specimen length of 0·7 cm or more had a significantly higher rate of positive results than smaller specimens (24·8 versus 12·9 per cent respectively; odds ratio 2·17, P = 0·001). Conclusion: Specimen length and ESR were independent prognostic factors of a positive TAB result. A uniform referral practice and standard specimen length of approximately 1 cm could help eliminate discrepancies in the results of TAB. Copyright © 2011 British Journal of Surgery Society Ltd. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Functional diversity of marine macrobenthic communities from sublittoral soft-sediment habitats off northern Chile

Abstract: Benthic communities show changes in com- position and structure across different environmental characteristics and habitats. However, incorporating spe- cies biological traits into the analysis can provide a better understanding of system functioning within habitats. We compare the functional diversity of macrobenthic com- munities from a contrasting shallow (15 m) and deep (50 m) sublittoral soft-sediment habitats in northern Chile, using biological traits analysis. Our aim was to highlight the biological characteristics responsible for differences between habitats and the implications for ecosystem functioning. Trait analysis showed that the deep habitat was restricted in providing functionally important biogenic structure and bioturbation and supports less diverse feed- ing-related energy pathways. The shallow habitat is char- acterized by more diverse energy pathways and a higher potential for matter exchange through bioturbation. We provide support to the predictions of transfer of energy from the benthos to upper trophic levels in the shallow, which is characterized mainly by normoxia and little organic matter content in the sediment. In the deep habitat, characterized by hypoxia and more organic matter, energy appears to be transferred to microbial components. We suggest that trait analysis should be added to the traditional approaches based on species diversity, because it provides indicators of ecosystem stress.

Maternal Depression, Locus of Control, and Emotion Regulatory Strategy as Predictors of Preschoolers' Internalizing Problems

Abstract: Childhood internalizing problems may occur as early as preschool, tend to be stable over time, and undermine social and academic functioning. Parent emotion regulatory behaviors may contribute to child internalizing problems and may be especially important during the preschool years when parents model emotion coping and regulation for their children. Parents who feel out of control of their preschoolers’ behavior and emotional states may adopt avoidant emotion regulatory strategies. We proposed that parent depression, perceived locus of control, and experiential avoidance would be linked with internalizing symptoms in a high-risk sample of preschool-aged children. We also expected that locus of control would mediate the relationship between maternal depression, experiential avoidance, and child internalizing problems. Seventy-four urban, low-income, diverse mothers of Head Start preschool children completed rating scales measuring their own depression, locus of control, experiential avoidance, and their children’s internalizing behaviors. Correlational analyses revealed that mothers reporting higher levels of depression were more likely to report experiential avoidance, feeling out of control in their parenting role, and internalizing symptoms in their children. Hierarchical multiple regressions showed that locus of control explained additional unique variance in child internalizing problems over and above that explained by maternal depression. Locus of control mediated the relationship between maternal depression and child internalizing symptoms. The importance of considering parent locus of control and its relation to children’s internalizing symptoms is discussed as a potential target for early childhood prevention programs.

Musculoskeletal injuries in Thoroughbred racehorses: a study of three large training yards in Newmarket, UK (2005-2007).

Abstract: Musculoskeletal injury is the most common cause of lost training days in the young Thoroughbred horse in flat race training. To date, there has been little investigation of the regional patterns of injury frequently observed by clinicians in racehorse practice. The present study was conducted to determine incidence of musculoskeletal injuries in Thoroughbreds in training in Newmarket, United Kingdom. Veterinary records for all horses resident in three large (>100 horse) training yards were assessed for occurrence of significant musculoskeletal injury. A total of 248 injuries were recorded in 217 individual horses, from a total population of 616 individual horses; fractures of the tibia (20.7%) and proximal phalanx (14.5%) were the most common. Overall injury rates were similar between yards (23–26%/year), with seasonal patterns noted for some injury types. Incidence of certain injuries (P1, metacarpal/metatarsal condylar, pelvic fractures, and superficial digital flexor tendonitis) varied between yards. The majority of carpal, P1 fracture and SDF tendonitis cases were right-sided.

The creatine kinase reaction: a simple reaction with functional complexity.

Abstract: The classical role of PCr is seen as a reservoir of high-energy phosphates defending cellular ATP levels under anaerobic conditions, high rates of energy transfer or rapid fluctuations in energy requirement. Although the high concentration of PCr in glycolytic fast-twitch fibers supports the role of PCr as a buffer of ATP, the primary importance of the creatine kinase (CK) reaction may in fact be to counteract large increases in ADP, which could otherwise inhibit cellular ATPase-mediated systems. A primary role for CK in the maintenance of ADP homeostasis may explain why, in many conditions, there is an inverse relationship between PCr and muscle contractility but not between ATP and muscle contractility. The high rate of ATP hydrolysis during muscle contraction combined with restricted diffusion of ADP suggests that ADP concentration increases transiently during the contraction phase (ADP spikes) and that these are synchronized with the contraction. The presence of CK, structurally bound in close vicinity to the sites of ATP utilization, will reduce the amplitude and duration of the ADP spikes through PCr-mediated phosphotransfer. When PCr is reduced, the efficiency of CK as an ATP buffer will be reduced and the changes in ADP will become more prominent. The presence of ADP spikes is supported by the finding that other processes known to be activated by ADP (i.e. AMP deamination and glycolysis) are stimulated during exercise but not during anoxia, despite the same low global energy state. Breakdown of PCr is driven by increases in ADP above that depicted by the CK equilibrium and the current method to calculate ADPfree from the CK reaction in a contracting muscle is therefore questionable.

Predictive Mapping of Human Risk for West Nile Virus (WNV) Based on Environmental and Socioeconomic Factors

Abstract: A West Nile virus (WNV) human risk map was developed for Suffolk County, New York utilizing a case-control approach to explore the association between the risk of vector-borne WNV and habitat, landscape, virus activity, and socioeconomic variables derived from publically available datasets. Results of logistic regression modeling for the time period between 2000 and 2004 revealed that higher proportion of population with college education, increased habitat fragmentation, and proximity to WNV positive mosquito pools were strongly associated with WNV human risk. Similar to previous investigations from north-central US, this study identified middle class suburban neighborhoods as the areas with the highest WNV human risk. These results contrast with similar studies from the southern and western US, where the highest WNV risk was associated with low income areas. This discrepancy may be due to regional differences in vector ecology, urban environment, or human behavior. Geographic Information Systems (GIS) analytical tools were used to integrate the risk factors in the 2000–2004 logistic regression model generating WNV human risk map. In 2005–2010, 41 out of 46 (89%) of WNV human cases occurred either inside of (30 cases) or in close proximity (11 cases) to the WNV high risk areas predicted by the 2000–2004 model. The novel approach employed by this study may be implemented by other municipal, local, or state public health agencies to improve geographic risk estimates for vector-borne diseases based on a small number of acute human cases.

Maternal Dysphoric Mood, Stress, and Parenting Practices in Mothers of Head Start Preschoolers: The Role of Experiential Avoidance.

Abstract: Maternal dysphoria predicts behavioral difficulties in preschool-aged children, and may contribute to negative child outcomes by exacerbating parenting stress. Parenting stress increases the likelihood of maladaptive parenting practices, especially when mothers face multiple contextual stressors. We explored maternal experiential avoidance (EA) as mechanism through which dysphoria amplifies parenting stress. One hundred and forty-four diverse, low-income mothers of Head Start preschoolers participated. Dysphoria, parenting stress, child behavior problems, and maladaptive parenting were positively correlated with EA. Further, EA mediated the relationship between dysphoria and parenting stress. Finally, parenting stress was uniquely predictive of inconsistent and punitive parenting practices.

The role of values-consistent behavior in generalized anxiety disorder.

Abstract: Background—Theory and research suggest that generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is associated with diminished quality of life and restriction in valued action. The purpose of this study was to examine the relevance of values-consistent behavior (valued action) in understanding the impairment in quality of life in GAD. Method—Treatment-seeking clients with a principal diagnosis of GAD (n=30) were compared with demographically matched non-anxious controls (n=30) using self-report measures. Results—Participants with GAD reported significantly less valued action compared with controls, and within the GAD group, diminished valued action was not fully explained by depression comorbidity. Valued action was significantly correlated with measures of experiential avoidance, distress about emotions, and quality of life. Further, consistent with a theoretical model of GAD, restrictions in valued action contributed unique variance to diminished quality of life over and above the contributions of gender, GAD severity, experiential avoidance, distress about emotions, and depression comorbidity. Finally, an acceptance-based behavioral therapy significantly improved self-reports of valued action for GAD clients with 40% achieving clinically significant change in this domain. Conclusion—The findings provide preliminary support for the relevance of valued action in understanding the functional impairment associated with GAD, and the beneficial effects of an acceptance-based behavior therapy in increasing valued action.

Exit and entry of fishing vessels: an evaluation of factors affecting investment decisions in the North Sea English beam trawl fleet

Abstract: A profitable fishery attracts additional effort (vessels enter), eventually leading to overcapacity and less profit. Similarly, fishing vessels exit depending on their economic viability (or reduced expectations of future benefits) or encouraged by schemes such as decommissioning grants and/or when there is consolidation of fishing effort within a tradable rights-based quota system (e.g. individual transferable quotas). The strategic decision-making behaviour of fishers in entering or exiting the English North Sea beam trawl fishery is analysed using a discrete choice model by integrating data on vessel characteristics with available cost data, decommissioning grant information, and other factors that potentially influence anticipated benefits or future risks. It is then possible to predict whether operators choose to enter, stay, exit, or decommission. Important factors affecting investment include vessel age and size, future revenues, operating costs (e.g. fuel), stock status of the main target species, and the impact of management measures (e.g. total allowable catches) and total fleet size (a proxy for congestion). Based on the results, the predicted marginal effects of each factor are presented and the impact of each is discussed in the context of policies developed to align fleet capacity with fishing opportunities.

Management Quality and Antitakeover Provisions

Abstract: We present the first empirical analysis of the relationship between a firm’s management quality and the prevalence of antitakeover provisions in its corporate charter and their influence on initial public offering (IPO) valuation and post-IPO performance. We test the implications of the managerial entrenchment hypothesis, which implies that antitakeover provisions serve only to enhance the control benefits of incumbent management, and the long-term value creation hypothesis, which implies that such provisions can enhance value in the hands of higher quality management. We find that, first, firms with higher quality management and greater growth options are associated with a greater number of antitakeover provisions. Second, firms with higher management quality and a greater number of antitakeover provisions outperform other firms in the sample in terms of post-IPO operating and stock return performance and obtain higher IPO valuations. Our findings reject the managerial entrenchment hypothesis an...