bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Report of the 24th Annual Congress of the International Liver Transplantation Society
Authors: De Martin Eleonora , Hessheimer Amelia , Chadha Ryan , Kabacam Gokhan , Rajanayagam Jeremy , Kirchner Varvara , Kalisvaart Marit , Scalera Irene , Bhat Mamatha , Contreras Alan , Bhangui Prashant
Published: November 2018

The 24th Joint Annual Congress of the International Liver Transplantation Society in association with European Liver and Intestine Transplant Association and Liver Intensive Care Group of Europe was held in Lisbon, Portugal from May 23 to 26, 2018. More than 1200 participants from over 60 countries including surgeons, hepatologists, anesthesiologists and critical care intensivists, radiologists, pathologists, organ procurement personnel, and research scientists came together with the common aim of improving care and outcomes for liver transplant recipients. Over 600 scientific abstracts were presented. The principal themes were living donation, use of marginal liver donors, machine preservation, disease-specific immunosuppressive regimen, malignancies, and advances in pediatric liver transplantation and liver transplant anesthesia. This report presents excerpts from invited lectures and select abstracts from scientific sessions, which add to current knowledge, and will drive clinical practice and future research.
Emergence of stable sensory and dynamic temporal representations in the hippocampus during working memory
Authors: Taxidis Jiannis , Pnevmatikakis Eftychios , Mylavarapu Apoorva L. , Arora Jagmeet S. , Samadian Kian D. , Hoffberg Emily A. , Golshani Peyman
Published: November 2018

Hippocampal networks form maps of experience through spiking sequences that encode sensory cues, space or time. But whether distinct rules govern the emergence, stability and plasticity of externally driven and internally-generated representations remains unclear. Using two-photon calcium imaging, we recorded CA1 pyramidal populations across multiple days, while mice learned and performed an olfactory, delayed, working-memory task. We observed anatomically intermixed spiking sequences, comprised of ‘odor-cells’ encoding olfactory cues, followed by ‘time-cells’ encoding odor-specific delay time-points. Odor-cells were reliably activated across trials and retained stable fields over days and different delays. In contrast, time-cells exhibited sparse, unreliable activation and labile fields that remapped over days and extended delays. Moreover, the number of odor-cells remained stable, whereas time-cells increased over days during learning of the task, but not during passive exposure. Therefore, multi-modal representations with distinct learning-related dynamics and stability can co-exist in CA1, likely driven by different neurophysiological and plasticity mechanisms.
Reconstitution of eukaryotic chromosomes and manipulation of DNA N6-methyladenine alters chromatin and gene expression
Authors: Beh Leslie Y. , Debelouchina Galia T. , Clay Derek M. , Thompson Robert E. , Lindblad Kelsi A. , Hutton Elizabeth R. , Bracht John R. , Sebra Robert P. , Muir Tom W. , Landweber Laura F.
Published: November 2018

DNA N6-adenine methylation (6mA) has recently been reported in diverse eukaryotes, spanning unicellular organisms to metazoans. Yet the functional significance of 6mA remains elusive due to its low abundance, difficulty of manipulation within native DNA, and lack of understanding of eukaryotic 6mA writers. Here, we report a novel DNA 6mA methyltransferase in ciliates, termed MTA1. The enzyme contains an MT-A70 domain but is phylogenetically distinct from all known RNA and DNA methyltransferases. Disruption of MTA1in vivoleads to the genome-wide loss of 6mA in asexually growing cells and abolishment of the consensus ApT dimethylated motif. Genes exhibit subtle changes in chromatin organization or RNA expression upon loss of 6mA, depending on their starting methylation level. Mutants fail to complete the sexual cycle, which normally coincides with a peak of MTA1 expression. Thus, MTA1 functions in a developmental stage-specific manner. We determine the impact of 6mA on chromatin organizationin vitroby reconstructing complete, full-length ciliate chromosomes harboring 6mA in native or ectopic positions. Using these synthetic chromosomes, we show that 6mA directly disfavors nucleosomesin vitroin a local, quantitative manner, independent of DNA sequence. Furthermore, the chromatin remodeler ACF can overcome this effect. Our study identifies a novel MT-A70 protein necessary for eukaryotic 6mA methylation and defines the impact of 6mA on chromatin organization using epigenetically defined synthetic chromosomes.

Highlights

The MT-A70 protein MTA1 mediates DNA N6-adenine methylation inOxytricha

MTA1 mutants exhibit subtle changes in nucleosome organization and transcriptionin vivo

6mA directly disfavors nucleosome occupancy in natural and synthetic chromosomesin vitro

De novosynthesis of complete, epigenetically definedOxytrichachromosomes
Positive and negative monoclinic deformation of corundum-type trigonal crystal structures of M
2O3 metal oxides
Authors: Fabrykiewicz Piotr , Przeniosło Radosław , Sosnowska Izabela , Fauth François
Published: November 2018

The crystal structures of several transition metal oxides, Ti2O3, V2O3, Cr2O3, Al2O3 and α-Fe2O3, are studied using synchrotron radiation X-ray powder diffraction. The observed angular dependence of the integral breadths is described by two models: (i) the distorted corundum-type structure model described by the space group C2/c and (ii) the Stephens model of anisotropic Bragg peak broadening. These two models are shown to be equivalent. Ti2O3, V2O3 and Cr2O3 show a `positive' distortion which is related to the possible metal–metal bond suggested by Goodenough in the literature (the deformation leads to shorter metal–metal distances) whereas Al2O3 and α-Fe2O3 show a `negative' distortion which leads to relatively longer metal–metal distances.
Octahedral tilting in the tungsten bronzes. Addendum.
Authors: Whittle Thomas A. , Schmid Siegbert , Howard Christopher J.
Published: November 2018

The studies of octahedral tilting in the tungsten bronzes [Whittle et al. (2015). Acta Cryst. B71, 342–348] were continued in the context of a more general approach to cooperative rotations of interconnected rigid units [Campbell et al. (2018). Acta Cryst. A74, 408–424]. That more general approach has detailed possible structures not identified in our 2015 paper. A brief comment on the implications of finite tilts for octahedral distortion is included.
The structures of benzimidazole derivatives and their potential as tuberculostatics
Authors: Główka Marek L. , Kałużyńska Sylwia , Krause Malwina , Gobis Katarzyna , Foks Henryk , Szczesio Małgorzata , Olczak Andrzej
Published: November 2018

Tuberculosis still remains a very important problem, especially its multidrug resistant varieties (MDR-TB). Among the potential tuberculostatics, there are two benzimidazole derivatives, namely 5,6-dimethyl-2-phenylethylbenzo[d]imidazole (1) and (E)-5,6-dimethyl-2-styryl-1H-benzo[d]imidazole (2) which showed significant tuberculostatic activities, better than those of Pyrazinamide and Isoniazyd. Also, the cytotoxicity of 1 appeared promising. The compounds were studied (with the use of X-ray diffraction) in the form of the hemihydrate of 1, C17H18N2·0.5H2O (1a), the methanol hemisolvate of 2, C17H16N2·0.5CH3OH (2a), and the acid oxalate salt of 2, namely (E)-5,6-dimethyl-2-styryl-1H-benzo[d]imidazolium hydrogen oxalate, C17H17N2
+·C2HO4
− (2b). All three structures reveal a similar extended conformation, despite the flexible linker between the two aromatic systems and the different types of strong intermolecular hydrogen bonds. The molecules of 2a are practically planar due to the double bond in the linker, which enables conjugation along the whole molecule, while the molecules of 1a exhibit the possibility of parallel orientations of their aromatic systems, despite the aliphatic (ethyl) linker.
Comparison of computationally cheap methods for providing insight into the crystal packing of highly bromomethylated azobenzenes
Authors: Vande Velde Christophe M. L. , Zeller Matthias , Azov Vladimir A.
Published: November 2018

For five bromomethylated azobenzenes, namely (E)-[4-(bromomethyl)phenyl][4-(dibromomethyl)phenyl]diazene, C14H11Br3N2, (E)-1,2-bis[4-(dibromomethyl)phenyl]diazene, C14H10Br4N2, (E)-[3-(bromomethyl)phenyl][3-(dibromomethyl)phenyl]diazene, C14H11Br3N2, (E)-[3-(dibromomethyl)phenyl][3-(tribromomethyl)phenyl]diazene, C14H10Br4N2, and (E)-1,2-bis[3-(dibromomethyl)phenyl]diazene, C14H9Br5N2, the computationally cheap CLP PIXEL approach and CrystalExplorer were used for calculating lattice energies and performing Hirshfeld surface analysis via the enrichment ratios of atomic contacts. The procedures and caveats are discussed in detail. The findings from these tools are contrasted with the results of geometric analysis of the structures. We conclude that an energy-based discussion of the crystal packing provides substantially more insight than one based purely on geometry, as has so long been the custom in crystallography. In addition, we find a surprising shortage of halogen–halogen interactions in these highly bromomethylated compounds.
The underlying mechanism of corporate governance in China
Authors: Yan Caiyu , He Hongqu , Li Juan , Cheng Shuang , Zhang Yanjun
Published: November 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to propose a strategy to analyze management governance in China.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper incorporates data on 989 Chinese listed firms over 2006 to 2016. A fixed effects model with panel data and anF-test are applied to exploit the relationship between management ownership and firm performance. A threshold model is introduced to explore the impacts of other governance mechanisms on management governance.

Findings

This paper finds an inverted U-shaped relationship between management ownership and firm performance. Furthermore, the threshold model demonstrates that large shareholders strengthen the positive effects of management governance and attenuate its negative effects; board size strengthens the positive effects of management governance but cannot attenuate its negative effects; and independent directors attenuate the negative effects of management governance.

Practical implications

This paper indicates that increasing management ownership could motivate managers to ameliorate the agent’s moral hazard problem which link the firm value premium when management ownership is less than 20.286 per cent. However, equity incentives are very rare in China. Thus, the authors expect that equity incentives will be a common phenomenon in Chinese listed firms.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to corporate governance literature by shedding some light on management ownership to explore the effects of management ownership. Specifically, this paper explores the effects of management ownership on firm performance and the impacts of other governance mechanisms on management governance to shape the management governance in China.
The fiscal system of China under the New Normal: trends and changes
Authors: Gao Peiyong , Zhen Jiang
Published: November 2018

Purpose

More and more statistics have repeatedly shown that as the economic development has entered the New Normal, the Chinese fiscal system has experienced tremendous changes. Although chance cannot be ruled out, much of those changes indicate trends, and they can even be said to be the result of the law of economic development. These trends and changes have repeatedly demonstrated that, as a reflection and an inevitable result of the economic developing speed shift, structural adjustment and energy conversion, the Chinese fiscal system, far from the conventional operating state, has progressed on a new path. The paper aims to discuss this issue.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper systematically analyzes several new trends and changes in the Chinese fiscal system under the New Normal. First, revenue growth has experienced a sharp downward trend, while the tax elasticity coefficient has declined rapidly. Second, fiscal expenditure has risen against the tendency, while the rigidity of expenditure has kept on increasing.

Findings

Considering the present fiscal and taxation system reform with the analysis above, it can be seen that if the reform’s progress for the past two years is slower than expected – thus, preventing the effects of all aspects from a timely achievement – then, in the recent period, the agreement on the fiscal and taxation system reform will be reached and challenges entirely different from the past, including sharp slowdown in revenue growth rate, fiscal expenditure rising against trend and increases in fiscal deficit and government debts will be faced. The factors encouraging the reform are gathering gradually. The growth of the strength to push the reform forward is speeding up. And the pace of the reform in relevant areas is quickening.

Originality/value

In the face of those trends and changes, on the one hand, the authors should deeply understand and accurately grasp them through a comprehensive summary and systematic analysis. On the other hand, a series of conventional ideas, thoughts and strategies should be adjusted comprehensively and duly. Taking a train of new ideas, thoughts and strategies, the authors ought to actively adapt to and initiate a new Chinese fiscal structure under the New Normal of China’s economy.
Study on the “high-quality development” economics
Authors: Bei Jin
Published: November 2018

Purpose

As China embarks upon a new era of high-quality development, it is increasingly important and imperative for China’s economic development to live up to its real nature, which is to satisfy people’s growing needs for a better life. The paper aims to discuss this issue.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper attempts to discuss the implication of HQD and its related theoretical issues from the basic theory of economics, and literature review. It is necessary to return to Marx’s “dual character of commodity” to check the theoretical foundation of this issue, based on the duality methodology, namely, the duality of the value of use and the value of exchange.

Findings

Moving from HSG phase to HQD phase constitutes a major challenge and an arduous task that is extremely difficult both theoretically and practically. A series of new problems crop out as to the theoretical understanding and practical resolution. Fundamentally speaking, this new dynamic mechanism intrinsically requires a perfect integration of the instrumental rationality of market economy and the value-based rationality of economic development.

Originality/value

This new momentum requires a perfect match between the instrumental rationality of market economy and the value-based rationality of economic development.
China’s Belt and Road Initiative and large-scale outbound investment
Authors: Kunrong Shen , Gang Jin
Published: November 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to comprehensively examine the influence of formal and informal institutional differences on enterprise investment margin, mode and result.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper is based on 2,440 micro samples of large-scale outbound investment from 609 Chinese enterprises from the years 2005 to 2016.

Findings

The study has found that formal institutional differences have little impact on investment scale, but significantly affect investment diversification. In order to avoid the management risks brought by formal institutional differences, enterprises tend to a full ownership structure. However, the choice between greenfield investment and cross-border mergers and acquisitions is not affected by formal institutional differences. In contrast, the impact of informal institutional differences is more extensive. Both formal and informal institutional differences significantly increase the probability of investment failure. Further research found that the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) bridges the formal institutional differences.

Originality/value

The study concludes that developing the BRI, especially cultural exchanges with countries alongside the Belt and Road, will help enterprises to “go global” faster and better.
An in-depth study on the implementation aspect of unified time integrators in reactive two-phase flows with consistent time level
Authors: Xue Tao , Zhang Xiaobing , Tamma K.K.
Published: November 2018

Purpose

A consistent implementation of the general computational framework of unified second-order time accurate integrators via the well-known GSSSS framework in conjunction with the traditional Finite Difference Method is presented to improve the numerical simulations of reactive two-phase flows.

Design/methodology/approach

In the present paper, the phase interaction evaluation in the present implementation of the reactive two-phase flows has been derived and implemented to preserve the consistency of the correct time level evaluation during the time integration process for solving the two phase flow dynamics with reactions.

Findings

Numerical examples, including the classical Sod shock tube problem and a reactive two-phase flow problem, are exploited to validate the proposed time integration framework and families of algorithms consistently to second order in time accuracy; this is in contrast to the traditional practices which only seem to obtain first-order time accuracy because of the inconsistent time level implementation with respect to the interaction of two phases. The comparisons with the traditional implementation and the advantages of the proposed implementation are given in terms of the improved numerical accuracy in time. The proposed approaches provide a correct numerical simulation implementation to the reactive two-phase flows and can obtain better numerical stability and computational features.

Originality/value

The new algorithmic framework and the consistent time level evaluation extended with the GS4 family encompasses a multitude of past and new schemes and offers a general purpose and unified implementation for fluid dynamics.
Data analytics criteria of IoT enabled smart energy meters (SEMs) in smart cities
Authors: Ahuja Kiran , Khosla Arun
Published: November 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to focus on data analytic tools and integrated data analyzing approaches used on smart energy meters (SEMs). Furthermore, while observing the diverse techniques and frameworks of data analysis of SEM, the authors propose a novel framework for SEM by using gamification approach for enhancing the involvement of consumers to conserve energy and improve efficiency.

Design/methodology/approach

A few research strategies have been accounted for analyzing the raw data, yet at the same time, a considerable measure of work should be done in making these commercially reasonable. Data analytic tools and integrated data analyzing approaches are used on SEMs. Furthermore, while observing the diverse techniques and frameworks of data analysis of SEM, the authors propose a novel framework for SEM by using gamification approach for enhancing the involvement of consumers to conserve energy and improve efficiency. Advantages of SEM’s are additionally discussed for inspiring consumers, utilities and their respective partners.

Findings

Consumers, utilities and researchers can also take benefit of the recommended framework by planning their routine activities and enjoying rewards offered by gamification approach. Through gamification, consumers’ commitment enhances, and it changes their less manageable conduct on an intentional premise. The practical implementation of such approaches showed the improved energy efficiency as a consequence.
Tribological behaviour of low-pressure plasma sprayed WC-Co coatings at elevated temperatures
Authors: Geng Zhe , Huang Huadong , Lu Baoshan , Wu Shaohua , Shi Gaolian
Published: November 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate the effect of coating microstructure, mechanical and oxidation property on the tribological behaviour of low-pressure plasma spraying (LPPS) tungsten carbide/cobalt (WC-Co) coatings.

Design/methodology/approach

WC-12Co and WC-17Co coatings were deposited via the LPPS spraying method. Tribological tests on the coatings were performed using a high-temperature ball-on-disc tribometer at temperatures from room temperature (RT, approximately 25 °C) up to 800 °C in ambient air.

Findings

WC-12Co coating contained brittle phases, pores and microcracks, which led to the low hardness, and finally promoted the splat delamination and the carbide debonding during wear. WC-17Co coating had higher cobalt content which benefited the coating to contain more WC particles, less brittle phases, pores and nearly no microcracks, and resulted in the high hardness and better wear resistance. Higher cobalt content also decelerated the oxidation rate of the coating and promoted the formation of cobalt oxides and CoWO4, which were able to maintain the load-bearing capacity and improve the tribological behaviour of the coating below 650°C. Above 650°C, the increase of oxidation degree and the decrease of mechanical property deteriorated the wear resistance of coatings.

Originality/value

The LPPS WC-Co coating with higher cobalt content had better tribological properties at different temperatures. The LPPS WC-Co coatings should not be used as wear-resistant coatings above 650 °C.
Investigation on tribological and corrosion characteristics of oxide-coated steel and mild steel fiber-based brake friction composites
Authors: S. Manoharan , R. Vijay , D. Lenin Singaravelu , Kchaou Mohamed
Published: November 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this work is to investigate the effect of oxide-coated steel in comparison with mild steel fibers on the tribological and corrosion performances of friction composites.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, the friction composites were developed in the form of standard brake pads by using oxide-coated steel and compared with mild steel fibers-based one without varying the other ingredients. The brake pads were developed as per the industrial procedure. The physical, mechanical, thermal properties of the developed brake pads were analyzed as per the industrial standards. The tribological properties were analyzed using the Chase test. The worn surface analysis was done using scanning electron microscope. Corrosion behavior was also analyzed in both salt and normal water conditions.

Findings

The experimental results indicate that the oxide-coated steel-based friction composites brake pads possess good physical, chemical, thermal, corrosion resistance and mechanical properties with stable fade and recovery characteristics because of its oxide coating and flake morphology.

Originality/value

This paper explains the influence of oxide-coated steel in friction composites for enhancing the tribological performance and corrosion resistance by its oxide coating and flake morphology which could potentially replace mild steel fibers-based problems in friction composites.
Friction and wear modeling of rotary disc in spherical pump
Authors: Guan Dong , Jing Li , Gong Junjie , Yang Zhengwei , Shen Hui
Published: November 2018

Purpose

Rotary disc is a key component in the compact spherical pump, connecting shaft and piston, bearing hydraulic force conformally and constituting dynamic working chambers alternatively. Motion of rotary disc comprises two components. One is rotating around its own axis and the other is sliding on a cone surface. Therefore, it is necessary to investigate the friction and wear mechanism between rotary disc and cylinder under a complicated operation condition.

Design/methodology/approach

Structural properties of rotary disc are analyzed first. Frictional moment of rotary disc is modeled based on its structural characteristics and working mechanism, and the constraints of the structural parameters are considered. Besides, the concept of dimensionless contact area is proposed. Comparison is performed between the proposed concept and the frictional moment to determine an optimized beginning angle for spherical pump with a given displacement. The wear model of rotary disc is also established based on its kinematic property, a velocity coefficient is proposed and its common values are presented.

Findings

Effects of structural parameters, i.e. beginning angle and ending angle on the frictional moment, are obtained quantitatively. The frictional moment increases with beginning and ending angle with different rates. While the dimensionless contact area decreases with beginning angle. The larger the piston angle, the larger the velocity coefficient will be. The rotary disc wears severely with a larger beginning angle and smaller ending angle, while it has the smallest wear rate under a smaller beginning angle and a larger ending angle.

Originality/value

The originality lies in modeling the complex contact force of rotary disc based on its specific structure. These conclusions can be used to optimize the structural parameters of rotary disc.
Illuminating the principles of social exchange theory with Hawthorne studies
Authors: Zoller Yaron J. , Muldoon Jeff
Published: November 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to suggest Homans’ social exchange theory (SET), a management theory, as an explanation for some of the findings of some of the Hawthorne experiments (1924-1933), which demonstrated how social situations play an important role in task performance and productivity and how social exchanges can facilitate it. The authors also use SET to investigate Elton Mayo’s inquiry as to what caused spontaneous cooperation in Hawthorne.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors used a combination of published work by Homans, Roethlisberger and Dickson, Mayo and others, as well as oral histories conducted by Greenwood and Bolton in 1982-1984, to argue that some of the Hawthorne studies illustrate the principles of SET. Homans’ SET brought together concepts from multiple disciplines and offered a framework to explain social behaviors.

Findings

The relay assembly room and the bank wiring tests of Hawthorne studies can illustrate SET as developed by Homans. With the development of SET, Homans not only provided explanations for the creation of strong feelings of affiliation and trust through interactions and mutual dependence between group members but also provided evidence to Mayo’s concept of spontaneous collaboration.

Research limitations/implications

The limitations of the paper are that the studies themselves can lend themselves to multiple perspectives due to design flaws. Therefore, our argument is only one interpretation – even if it is something that the researchers would have supported.

Originality/value

The paper augments the ongoing discussion about the Hawthorne studies in the literature and in the development of management theories such as SET. The authors provide support that it is through the attempts to explain the Hawthorne studies and the post-Second World War controversies over the studies that Homans developed social exchange. Building on previous work, the methods show perspectives beyond the motivations and sentiments of Homans by demonstrating observable behaviors from the Hawthorne studies.
Are multiple brand endorsements economically effective?
Authors: Agnihotri Arpita , Bhattacharya Saurabh , Prasad V.K. Satya
Published: November 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine the impact of multiple brand celebrity endorsement strategies on firms’ performance and different attributes associated with celebrities on firms’ performance. In this regard, the present study specifically explores the role of celebrity reputation and experience, as well as social media as a promotion platform in influencing the economic effectiveness of multiple brand endorsement strategies, i.e. proportion of brands endorsed in a firms’ brand portfolio.

Design/methodology/approach

Study is based on instrumental variable regression analysis approach and is conducted in one of the emerging markets, i.e. India.

Findings

The findings indicate that firms’ market valuations increase as its proportion of brands endorsed by celebrities increases. Furthermore, popularity reputation of celebrity also influences market valuation, and relationship is positively moderated by celebrity’s experience.

Originality/value

Extant studies have considered one endorsement news of a firm at a time. However, how total proportion of firms’ brand endorsed by celebrities impacts its performance has not been investigated. Furthermore, impact of celebrity traits has been examined only in consumer behavior studies and has been rarely investigated in context of firms’ economic performance.
Relative importance of country of service delivery, country of person and country of brand in hybrid service evaluation: a conjoint analysis approach
Authors: Aruan Daniel Tumpal Hamonangan , Crouch Roberta , Quester Pascale
Published: November 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the relative importance of country of brand (COB), country of service delivery (COSD) and country of person (COP) in consumer evaluation of hybrid services.

Design/methodology/approach

Using data (N = 1,071) from Australia, Indonesia and Singapore, a conjoint analysis experimental design explored empirically the importance of country of origin (COO) effects in three service contexts: search, experience and credence.

Findings

The analysis reveals that the relative importance of COP was the highest for credence services, while COB was the strongest for experience services.

Practical implications

For firms operating offshore, companies must understand that the COO construct is multi-dimensional for services, as it is for tangible products and not limited only to COB as traditionally thought. At least two other distinct dimensions – COSD and COP – can play significant roles as predictors of service quality expectations. Companies must consider the implications of service type, according to the search-experience-credence continuum to inform staffing decisions and managing customer expectations.

Originality/value

This research contributes to the literature by extending the understanding of country image effects in the context of hybrid service provisions, particularly in the view of customer expectations of services with multiple country-of-origins. Although there have been several studies examining the effects of COO on services evaluation, no empirical study has examined the effects of multiple COOs simultaneously from the perspective of location where the service is delivered (COSD) and individuals who deliver the service (COP), in addition to the effect of COB origin.
Research partnerships – embracing user involvement: practical considerations and reflections
Authors: O’Sullivan Roger
Published: November 2018

Purpose

Academic researchers are increasingly required, and rightly so, to demonstrate the impact of their work beyond the gates of the university. This has led to an increasing focus, especially in response to funded calls, on developing research partnerships that cross disciplines, sectors and borders to help address our grand societal challenges. The purpose of this paper is to set out learning from the work of the organisation the Centre for Ageing Research and Development in Ireland (CARDI) and reflections on how to bring forward effective research partnerships involving users.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper is based on reflections and learning from the organisation CARDI which delivered a highly successful programme of interdisciplinary, cross-sectoral and cross-country research partnerships in both rural and urban areas between 2007 and 2015, across the island of Ireland.

Findings

Research partnerships that wish to involve users require time, commitment, support, understanding and a willingness to change and be challenged. This paper highlights that there are methodological, philosophical, moral, economic and of course, practical aspects to be considered.

Research limitations/implications

This reflective paper is based on a case study from the island of Ireland during the period 2007–2015 working in the area of ageing and older people.

Practical implications

The author emphasises that for research partnerships involving users to be successful, they need to not only consider the most effective research methods but also focus on the overarching purpose of the work and adopt an ethos and practice that maximises each partner’s knowledge and expertise to their full potential.

Social implications

This reflective paper focused on the characteristics associated with partnership success, i.e. communication style, values, philosophy and practice and argues that establishing effective and inclusive partnerships requires time, the appropriate framework and reviewing the process on an ongoing basis.

Originality/value

The issue of user involvement in research partnerships requires much more consideration. Researchers, government, funders, businesses and service providers are increasingly recognising the benefits of “user” involvement to help design programmes and services that are most effective. Nowhere is this more important than in planning and delivering services, policy and programmes for our ageing population.
EHMP-DLP: multi-projector DLP with energy homogenization for large-size 3D printing
Authors: Wu Lifang , Zhao Lidong , Jian Meng , Mao Yuxin , Yu Miao , Guo Xiaohua
Published: November 2018

Purpose

In some three-dimensional (3D) printing application scenarios, e.g., model manufacture, it is necessary to print large-sized objects. However, it is impossible to implement large-size 3D printing using a single projector in digital light processing (DLP)-based mask projection 3D printing because of the limitations of the digital micromirror device chips.

Design/methodology/approach

A multi-projector DLP with energy homogenization (EHMP-DLP) scheme is proposed for large-size 3D printing. First, a large-area printing plane is established by tiling multiple projectors. Second, the projector set’s tiling pattern is obtained automatically, and the maximum printable plane is determined. Third, the energy is homogenized across the entire printable plane by adjusting gray levels of the images input into the projectors. Finally, slices are automatically segmented based on the tiling pattern of the projector set, and the gray levels of these slices are reassigned based on the images of the corresponding projectors.

Findings

Large-area high-intensity projection for mask projection 3D printing can be performed by tiling multiple DLP projectors. The tiled projector output energies can be homogenized by adjusting the images of the projectors. Uniform ultraviolet energy is important for high-quality printing.

Practical implications

A prototype device is constructed using two projectors. The printable area becomes 140 × 210 mm from the original 140 × 110 mm.

Originality/value

The proposed EHMP-DLP scheme enables 3D printing of large-size objects with linearly increasing printing times and high printing precision. A device was established using two projectors to practice the scheme and can easily be extended to larger sizes by using more projectors.
The risk associated with strategic decisions: is it a marketing issue?
Authors: Settembre-Blundo Davide , Fernández del Hoyo Alfonso Pedro , García-Muiña Fernando Enrique
Published: November 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyze the strategic management of risks in companies from a marketing management perspective and to provide some guidance for management practice.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper presents the authors’ viewpoint, and it conceptualizes a new approach to risk management.

Findings

The conceptual discussion has opened up a possible new way for enterprises, especially SMEs, to start taking a strategic approach to risk.

Originality/value

This paper would like to contribute to the current debate on the role of marketing function in managerial practice beyond the classic four Ps.
Exploring and consolidating the brand personality elements of the political leader
Authors: Jain Varsha , Chawla Meetu , Ganesh B.E. , Pich Christopher
Published: November 2018

Purpose

This study aims to examine brand personality and its application to political branding. This study focuses on the brand personality of a political leader from the BJP Party brand (Bharatiya Janta Party). The development of a strong political brand personality is crucial for success at the polls. Little research has been dedicated to this phenomenon particularly beyond Western political and post-election contexts.

Design/methodology/approach

The scope and development of the study required a qualitative approach. The theoretical frameworks of the study acted as the deductive base of the study. The insights of the respondents were the inductive base of the study. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with external stakeholders [voters]. In addition, semi-structured interviews were also adopted to capture the branding activities used by internal stakeholders [BJP].

Findings

The brand personality dimensions such as sincerity; agreeableness, competence, energy, openness, conscientiousness and emotional stability were clearly associated with a political leader. Negative qualities such as dictatorial attitudes and arrogance affected the political leader’s brand personality. Religious partisanship was another strong negative trait affecting the brand personality of the political leader.

Originality/value

The study has an actionable framework for political brand personality in the post-election context. It offers negative qualities to be avoided in the development of the political brand personality of the leader. It offers insights about the political brand personality of the leader in terms of young digitally savvy voters.
Realizing your strategy’s potential: a seven-step model for its effective execution
Authors: Galpin Timothy J.
Published: November 2018

Purpose

A seven-step Strategy Execution Model provides a tested guide to agile implementation.

Design/methodology/approach

Pragmatic actions, key deliverables and a case example for each of the seven steps in the model are presented.

Findings

Firms that focus more on strategic planning than implementation are often plagued with execution issues. Whereas, organizations that are able to execute their strategies as a well managed, integrated process have a much better chance of realizing the full potential of their plans.

Practical implications

Supporting the experience of numerous management teams, research indicates that poor execution often squanders the value companies anticipate from innovative, advantageous strategic initiatives. To minimize the likelihood of mismanagement, companies need a repeatable process that provides an integrated and actionable approach to effective strategy execution.

Originality/value

Senior executives and middle managers need a structured, coordinated system for managing strategy implementation. The author’s seven-step method has been tested in practice and refined. It emphasizes communication and agile adaptability.
Effect of cytomegalovirus infection and leukocyte immunoglobulin like receptor B1 polymorphisms on receptor expression in peripheral blood mononuclear cells
Authors: Cadena‐Mota Sandra , Monsiváis‐Urenda Adriana , Salgado‐Bustamante Mariana , Monjarás‐Ávila César , Bernal‐Silva Sofía , Aranda‐Romo Saray , Noyola Daniel E.
Published: November 2018

Leukocyte immunoglobulin like receptor B1 (LILRB1) plays a significant role in a number of infectious, autoimmune, cardiovascular, and oncologic disorders. LILRB1 expression varies between individuals and may be associated with polymorphisms on the regulatory region of the LILRB1 gene, as well as to previous cytomegalovirus infection. In this study, the contribution of these two factors to LILRB1 expression in peripheral blood mononuclear cells of healthy young adults was analyzed. LILRB1 expression in NK cells, T cells, B cells and monocytes was significantly stronger in individuals who had had cytomegalovirus infection than in those who had not (P < 0.001, P < 0.001, P < 0.01, and P < 0.001, respectively). Overall, no differences in LILRB1 expression were observed between individuals with and without GAA haplotypes of the LILRB1 regulatory region. However, when analyzed according to cytomegalovirus infection status, significant differences in LILRB1+ NK cells were observed. A higher proportion of LILRB1+ cells was found in GAA+ than in GAA− individuals who had not been infected (P < 0.01), whereas GAA− individuals had a larger proportion of LILRB1+ cells than GAA+ individuals who were cytomegalovirus positive (P < 0.01). In conclusion, cytomegalovirus infection has a major effect on LILRB1 expression in NK and other mononuclear cells and polymorphisms in the LILRB1 regulatory region appear to have a modulatory influence over this effect.
Advanced three‐dimensional seismic imaging of deep supercritical geothermal rocks in Southern Tuscany
Authors: Jusri Tomi , Bertani Ruggero , Buske Stefan
Published: November 2018

The seismic K‐Horizon is the key to gaining understanding on the deep supercritical geothermal rocks in Southern Tuscany. The K‐Horizon is hosted in metamorphic rocks, which cause strong seismic wavefield scattering resulting in a poor signal‐to‐noise ratio. Our study aims to reveal high‐resolution seismic images of the K‐Horizon below a geothermal field in Southern Tuscany, using an advanced three‐dimensional seismic depth imaging approach. The key seismic pre‐processing steps in the time domain include muting a large amount of persistent noise based on the statistical analysis of the seismic amplitudes, and tomostatics technique to correct for static effects. We carried out seismic depth imaging using Kirchhoff Pre‐Stack Depth Migration and Fresnel Volume Migration techniques. Each migration technique was tested with constant and heterogeneous three‐dimensional velocity models. Due to the difficulties in determining emergent angles for this low signal‐to‐noise ratio data set, the migration results with the heterogeneous three‐dimensional velocity model show less coherent reflections compared to the migration results using the constant velocity model. Both velocity models however lead to relatively the same structure and depth of the K‐Horizon, indicating the similarity of the average velocities along the wave propagation paths in both velocity models. With both velocity models Fresnel Volume Migration yields the K‐Horizon with better reflection coherency and higher signal‐to‐noise ratio than standard Kirchhoff Pre‐Stack Depth Migration. Nevertheless, both migration techniques have been able to reveal the K‐Horizon with relatively high resolution and provide a reliable basis for geothermal rock characterization as well as steering of the first geothermal well penetrating the K‐Horizon.
Agency of internal transnationalism in social memory
Authors: Bekus Nelly
Published: November 2018

The article examines the limitations of methodological nationalism in the studies of social memory through a case study of memory of Stalinist repression in Belarus. It analyses how various social agencies – national and local activists, religious organisations, and international foundations – use the memory of repression for constructing post‐Soviet Belarusian identity by embedding their national representations in larger transnational frameworks. Drawing on the concept of ‘internal globalisation’, this article develops the idea of ‘internal transnationalism’ that suggests the importance of wider transnational configurations for the definition of nation. Internalized transnationalism does not make a national memory concept less nation‐centred, but it affects the choice of its cultural, political and civilizational framing. In contrast to methodological cosmopolitanism that implies rediscovering of the national as an internalized global, methodological transnationalism emphasizes the multiplicity of co‐existing transnational networks that can be invoked by social actors in their national mnemonic agenda. Using the case of the Kurapaty memorial site the article analyses how multiple framings of memory representations – the Belarusian national memory, liberal anti‐communist memory, contesting memories, such as Polish, Baltic and Jewish – compete and juxtapose in the space of social memory of political repression.
Route of hysterectomy: a retrospective, cohort study in English NHS Hospitals from 2011 to 2017
Authors: Madhvani K , Curnow T , Carpenter T
Published: November 2018

Objective

To assess variation in the route of hysterectomy over 7 years and to assess regional variation in practice.

Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting

English NHS Hospitals 2011–2017.

Population

230 876 patients having a hysterectomy for six diagnostic categories (endometrial cancer, endometriosis and pain, menstrual disorders, fibroids, benign adnexal masses, and ‘other’) identified from Hospital Episode Statistics.

Methods

The proportion of hysterectomies carried out by each route was calculated for each year overall and for each primary diagnosis by year. Comparisons between 2011 and 2017 were via chi‐square test. Rank correlation coefficients were calculated to assess trends over the study period. Analysis of regional variation in practice was restricted to 2017. A multivariable logistic regression was performed to obtain crude and adjusted odds of having a minimal access hysterectomy.

Main outcome measures

The proportion of abdominal, vaginal, laparoscopic, and failed laparoscopic procedures for each primary diagnosis by study year. Odds of a minimal access hysterectomy in 2017.

Results

The proportion of hysterectomies performed laparoscopically increased from 20.2% in 2011 to 47.2% in 2017, as did the proportion of failed laparoscopic procedures; 1.7% in 2011 to 2.8% in 2017. The proportion of abdominal hysterectomies decreased from 70.4% in 2011 to 46.5% in 2017. There was a smaller decrease in vaginal procedures from 7.8% in 2011 to 3.5% in 2017. Regional variation in the route of hysterectomy was demonstrated in 2017, which persisted when adjusted for confounding factors.

Conclusions

The proportion of laparoscopic procedures has increased, and it was the commonest route of hysterectomy for this cohort in 2017. There were significant regional differences in route of hysterectomy in 2017.

Tweetable abstract

Increasing laparoscopic hysterectomy and decreasing abdominal hysterectomy rates from 2011 to 2017 with regional variation in practice.