bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A model for enterprise resource planning in emergency humanitarian logistics
Authors: Gavidia Jose V.
Published: October 2017

Purpose

While the need for information systems is regularly highlighted in the humanitarian logistics literature, a detailed model of what such system would look like is missing. The purpose of this paper is to highlight the need and advantages of enterprise resource planning (ERP) technology in humanitarian emergency logistics. The paper also proposes a model for the configuration, maintenance, operation, and improvement of the system.

Design/methodology/approach

This conceptual paper uses existing logistics and information systems literature to build the logical case for an integrated enterprise system for humanitarian emergencies, and to propose conceptual content and process models.

Findings

The problem of lack of coordination is reviewed, and a holistic solution is proposed through a structure and model of ERP systems technology to meet the specific requirements of humanitarian emergencies.

Research limitations/implications

As in any conceptual paper, a limitation of this paper is the lack of empirical validation of the proposed system. It also might be difficult to obtain the cooperation of multiple organizations. This research focuses on emergency humanitarian logistics, where effectiveness and speed have priority over simplicity or cost.

Practical implications

The model proposed in this paper links current efforts in humanitarian emergency coordination with existing supply chain information technologies, and is practically feasible both from the technological and organizational perspectives.

Social implications

Because of the critical, life or death nature of the problem, social and ethical implications of this research are broad, including the divergence of coordination in humanitarian vs commercial and military logistics, as well as inter-agency politics.

Originality/value

This paper is a bold but realistic attempt to take a holistic view of humanitarian logistics and design a system that would be effective, and calls humanitarian organizations worldwide to collaborate in its implementation.
Managing military involvement in emergency preparedness in developed countries
Authors: Kaneberg Elvira
Published: October 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyse supply chain network management (SCNM) in the context of emergency preparedness management (EPM). The results of this study revealed that civil-military relations are essential for EPM to function as a coordinated approach to safety and security, and are necessary to respond effectively to complex emergencies and mitigating threats to developed countries. Civil-military relations are still a concern in the context of communication, the exercise of authority, and the coordination of emergency supplies (ES) to emergency operations.

Design/methodology/approach

This qualitative study is based on field observations, with attention focused on the EPM of Sweden, Finland, and Poland. The analysis of a broader SCNM through EPM was supported by semi-structured interviews among civil-military actors in Sweden, information collected from informal conversations known as “hanging out”, and secondary materials. Empirically, the analysis included a variety of civil-military relationships and identified implications for management, policy, and planning that are applicable to developed countries.

Findings

The management of civil-military relations is a meaningful resource when used as an overall approach for safety and security. The integration of civil-military relations in EPM in the planning of ES is a long-standing and complex matter. The management of Swedish civil-military relations in EPM is recognising that implications for management are imbedded in continuous policy changes in, for example, the Swedish policy history. Civil-military relational complications that arise in the field of operations are impossible to anticipate during emergency planning, as those complications are grounded in policy changes.

Originality/value

Escalating threats to developed countries are highlighted. The study underlines the primary measures used in studying military involvement in EPM. An understanding of SCNM as a choice for management can be obtained in future research that focuses on a broader role of the military in EPM. Sweden has emphasised a clearer role for the military by reactivating total defence planning and by evolving common practices and processes with civil actors in civil defence. Meanwhile, Poland and Finland are increasing their focus on supporting the management of civil-military policies on safety and security regarding communication, authority, and developing coordination. Consistent with findings from previous reports on SCNM, civil-military relations are essential for EPM. This study confirmed the importance of civil-military coordination, the management and practice of authority, and shared forms of communication.
Internal audit organisational status, competencies, activities and fraud management in the financial services sector
Authors: Kabuye Frank , Nkundabanyanga Stephen Korutaro , Opiso Julius , Nakabuye Zulaika
Published: October 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to study the relationship between internal audit organisational status, competencies, activities and fraud management. As a corollary, this paper examines the contribution made by the internal audit organisational status, the internal audit competence and the internal audit activities on fraud management in financial services firms.

Design/methodology/approach

This study is cross-sectional and correlational, and it uses firm-level data that were collected by means of a questionnaire survey from a sample of 54 financial services firms in Kampala – Uganda.

Findings

Results suggest that the internal audit organisational status and the internal audit competence are significant predictors of fraud management. Contrary to previous thinking, internal audit activities do not significantly predict fraud management. Therefore, once internal auditors have appropriate status and are competent in an organisation, they are likely to perform activities that enhance fraud management.

Research limitations/implications

This study focuses on financial services firms in Uganda, and it is possible that these results are only applicable to the financial services sector. More research is therefore needed to further understand the contribution of the internal audit constructs on fraud management in other sectors such as the public sector.

Practical implications

The results are important for internal audit policy development, for example, in terms of prescribing the competences and reporting lines for the internal auditors to enhance fraud management in the financial services sector.

Originality/value

As far as the authors are aware, no research has hitherto been undertaken that investigates the individual contribution of internal audit organisation status, competence and its activities as internal audit constructs on fraud management.
Intellectual property rights protection and technological innovation
Authors: Cho Se Ho , Kim Hyun Gon
Published: October 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to assess the role of firms’ internationalization on the relationship between intellectual property right (IPR) protection and their technological innovation. While recent studies provide a negative relationship between IPR protection and technological innovation, this paper argues that firm’s internationalization weaken the negative relationship. This research is a meaningful step to clarify the theoretical conflict and empirical ambiguity of the effect of IPR protection on technological innovations.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper empirically analyzes the theoretical arguments with 204 US firms, which registered their patents in the United States Patent and Trademark Office and have been listed in the Compustat database between 2007 and 2010.

Findings

The paper suggests that IPR protections brings more benefit to firms with high multinationality and are more export-oriented in terms of developing technological innovation, whereas the effects of international knowledge stock is unclear in the relationship between IPR protection and technological innovation.

Research limitations/implications

This study shows the effects of internationalization factors, which provide the benefits of cost efficiency and of more resource accessibility on the relationship between IPR protection regime and a firm’s technological innovation. The implication for policy makers and firm managers is that utilizing internationalization resources and capabilities is essential in developing their firms’ technological innovation under a strong IPR protection.

Originality/value

This paper enriches the literature of IPRs and offers the direction for future research on how a firm’s internationalization matters in its innovative activities under IPR protection.
Host-country characteristics, corporate sustainability, and the mediating effect of improved knowledge
Authors: Fazal Syed Ali , Al Mamun Abdullah , Wahab Sazali Abdul , Mohiuddin Muhammad
Published: October 2017

Purpose

Under the premise of resource-based view (RBV), this study aims to examine the influence of host-country characteristics (i.e. market environment, cultural factors, government policies and absorptive capacity) on improved knowledge acquired by means of intra-firm technology transfer and the latter’s subsequent effect on corporate sustainability among subsidiaries of foreign multinational corporations (MNCs) in Malaysia.

Design/methodology/approach

The following study adopted a cross-sectional design. Quantitative data were collected through structured interview from the representatives of selected 252 subsidiaries of foreign-based MNCs located in Peninsular Malaysia.

Findings

The findings of this study revealed that market environment, government policies and absorptive capacity significantly affect the adoption of innovative knowledge, which also has a significant positive effect on corporate sustainability. The findings also revealed a partial mediation of improved knowledge between market environment, government policies and absorptive capacity on corporate sustainability.

Research limitations/implications

This study recommends that the host country should formulate and adopt trade and FDI friendly policies, as well as stricter intellectual property laws, and, at the same time, provide higher education and training to its citizens to maximize foreign investment and knowledge transfer.

Originality/value

Apart from highlighting the under-researched issue of organizational sustainability, this study is unique in its approach of connecting the external environment of the host country with the internal knowledge of the firm and corporate sustainability in a single framework. The empirical findings of this study support the hypothesized relationships and thereby extend the scope of the contingency theory and RBV in addition to simultaneously enriching the existing intra-firm knowledge management literature, particularly in the Malaysian context.
Electroactive shape memory properties of graphene/epoxy-cyanate ester nanocomposites
Authors: Wang Yongkun , Ma Tianran , Tian Wenchao , Ye Junjue , Wang Xing , Jiang Xiangjun
Published: October 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to prepare novel electroactive shape memory nanocomposites based on graphene and study the thermomechanical property and shape memory behavior of nanocomposites.

Design/methodology/approach

Graphene was dispersed in N,N-dimethylformamide, and the mixture was spooned into epoxy-cyanate ester mixtures to form graphene/epoxy-cyanate ester nanocomposites. The nanocomposites were deformed under 150°C, and shape recovery test was conducted under an electric voltage of 20-100 V.

Findings

Graphene is used to improve the shape recovery behavior and performance of shape-memory polymers (SMPs) for enhanced electrical actuation effectiveness. With increment of graphene content, the shape recovery speed of nanocomposites increases significantly.

Research limitations/implications

A simple way for fabricating electro-activated SMP nanocomposites has been developed by using graphene.

Originality/value

The outcome of this study will help to fabricate the SMP nanocomposites with high electrical actuation effectiveness and improve the shape recovery speed of the nanocomposites.
Shape memory polymer composite coatings with enhanced mechanical and antimicrobial properties
Authors: Wang Xin , Xu Xiaoling , Zhou Zuowan , Gou Jihua
Published: October 2017

Purpose

This paper aims to exploit shape memory polymer (SMP) composite as multifunctional coatings for protecting substrates from surface wear and bacterial. The efficiency of added nano or micro-sized particles in enhancing the properties of SMP was investigated. This study also attempts to use a low-cost and effective spraying approach to fabricate the coatings. The coatings are expected to have good conformability with the substrate and deliver multi-functional performance, such as wrinkle free, wear resistance, thermal stability and antimicrobial property.

Design/methodology/approach

High-performance SMP composite coatings or thin films were fabricated by a home-made continuous spray-deposition system. The morphologies of the coatings were studied using the scanning electron microscope and the transmission electron microscope. The abrasion properties were evaluated by Taber Abraser test, and thermo-gravimetric analysis was carried out to investigate the thermal properties of prepared composites. The antimicrobial property was determined by the inhibition zone method using E. coli. The thermally responsive shape memory effect of the resulting composites was also characterized.

Findings

The morphology analysis indicated that the nanoclay was distributed on the surface of the coating which resulted in a significant improvement of the wear property. The wear resistance of the coatings with nanoclay was improved as much as 40 per cent compared with that of the control sample. The thermo-gravimetric analysis revealed that the weight loss rate of composites with nanoclay was dropped over 40 per cent. The SMP coating with zinc oxide (ZnO) showed excellent antimicrobial effect. The shape recovery effect of SMP/nanoclay and SMP/ZnO composites can be triggered by external heating and the composites can reach a full shape recovery within 60 s.

Research limitations/implications

This study proposed a continuous spray-deposition fabrication of SMP composite coatings, which provides a new avenue to prepare novel multi-functional coatings with low cost.

Originality/value

Most studies have emphasized on the sole property of SMP composites. Herein, a novel SMP composite coating which could deliver multi-functionality such as wrinkle free, wear resistance, thermal stability and antimicrobial property was proposed.
Autonomy support, need fulfilment and job performance in lean implemented textile and apparel firms
Authors: Wickramasinghe Vathsala , Wickramasinghe G.L.D.
Published: October 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate conditions that facilitate shop-floor operators to fulfil their needs to carry out job roles and whether the need fulfilment affects their job performance in lean-implemented textile and apparel firms in Sri Lanka.

Design/methodology/approach

The data were collected from 922 shop-floor employees and their immediate supervisors. Statistical methods were used for the data analysis.

Findings

The results of the analysis imply the importance of managerial autonomy support and need fulfilment for enhanced job performance; the duration of lean production in operation moderates job performance in such a way that the longer the duration, the higher will be job performance.

Originality/value

It could be expected that academics and practitioners alike are motivated by a desire to clearly apprehend work systems in lean-implemented textile and apparel firms.
Designing an educational tool to revitalise woven textile mending
Authors: Sakalyte Viktorija , Cassidy Tom , Holroyd Amy
Published: October 2017

Purpose

Because of advances in woollen woven textile manufacture, the occurrence of industrial textile mending has diminished. While the demand for the skill is still present in certain settings, the availability of learning resources is limited relating to this particular craft. The purpose of this paper is to design and produce an effective educational learning tool to teach mending skills.

Design/methodology/approach

To address the aims of this dissertation project, bricolage methodology and qualitative research methods have been used. Using the findings from primary and secondary research, the educational, instructional video was developed to document and display the mending craft practice in a format that would endure and be accessible to anybody who wished to learn. After determining that the ability to understand woven pattern structures was key in learning mending skill, the visual tool was developed using two-dimensional woven structure diagrams and animations to train pattern comprehension and recognition.

Findings

The results of educational video tool testing confirmed that using two-dimensional animated diagrams of woven structures was an effective method to teach pattern comprehension. Also, it was found that the trainee’s participation in the instructional video was effective in helping to teach other learners mending skills. The structure of the educational video made the learning more organised and comprehensible, as it assisted in the learning process through the combined media that reiterated the same information in different formats.

Originality/value

Design technology was applied to provide a comprehensible educational resource that could be used to learn and revitalise mending skills. The principles and methods applied in this resource could be adapted to teach different textile disciplines or other craft practices.
Seam efficiency of woven linen shirting fabric: process parameter optimisation
Authors: Datta Mallika , Nath Devarun , Javed Asif , Hossain Nabab
Published: October 2017

Purpose

The focus of this research is to identify the optimum commercial grade sewing thread and stitch density to be used with woven linen shirting fabric used in making men’s formal shirt. Maximum seam efficiency and interaction between the process parameters were assessed.

Design/methodology/approach

The classical method of optimisation involves varying one variable at a time and keeping the others constant. This is often useful, but it does not explain the effect of interaction between the variables under consideration. In this study, the response surface methodology was used for securing a more accurate optimisation of seam quality (seam efficiency) of woven linen shirting fabric. The response surface method is an empirical statistical technique used for multiple regression analysis of quantitative data obtained from statistically designed experiments by solving the multivariate equations simultaneously. Through this system, the input level of each process parameter, i.e. variable and the level of the selected response (seam efficiency), can be quantified. The central composite, Box–Behnken, is the common design used here.

Findings

The maximum seam efficiency is 79.62 per cent and 83.13 per cent in warp and weft direction, respectively, with optimum areal density (G) of 110 g/m2of woven linen shirting fabric. The most suitable stitch density and ticket number of commercial grade sewing thread for woven linen shirting fabric are 13-13.5 and 40, respectively.

Practical implications

This study could help apparel manufacturers to evaluate seam quality, i.e. seam efficiency of woven linen fabric for men’s shirting, more effectively from the proposed regression model. The optimisation of the commercial grade sewing thread size and stitch density used in this study for woven linen shirting fabric within the range of 110-150 g/m2will facilitate apparel engineers in production planning and quality control.

Originality/value

There is dearth of research on seam quality for woven linen shirting fabric using commercial grade sewing thread and engineering of prediction regression model for the estimation of seam efficiency by using process parameters, namely, fabric G, thread size and thread density and their interaction.
Evaluation of body geometry and symmetry for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis with 3D body scanning system
Authors: Lu Lu , Yick Kit-Lun , Ng Sun Pui , Yip Joanne , Tse Chi Yung
Published: October 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to quantitatively assess the three-dimensional (3D) geometry and symmetry of the torso for spinal deformity and the use of orthotic bracewear by using non-invasive 3D body scanning technology.

Design/methodology/approach

In pursuing greater accuracy of body anthropometric measurements to improve the fit and design of apparel, 3D body scanning technology and image analysis provide many more advantages over the traditional manual methods that use contact measurements. To measure the changes in the torso geometry and profile symmetry of patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis, five individuals are recruited to undergo body scanning both with and without wearing a rigid brace during a period of six months. The cross-sectional areas and profiles of the reconstructed 3D torso models are examined to evaluate the level of body symmetry.

Findings

Significant changes in the cross-sectional profile are found amongst four of the patients over the different visits for measurements (p < 0.05), which are consistent with the X-rays results. The 3D body scanning system can reliably evaluate changes in the body geometry of patients with scoliosis. Nevertheless, improvements in the symmetry of the torso are found to be somewhat inconsistent among the patients and across different visits.

Originality/value

This pilot study demonstrates a practical and safe means to measure and analyse the torso geometry and symmetry so as to allow for more frequent evaluations, which would result in effective and optimal treatment of spinal deformation.
A context-aware frequency estimation method for wireless passive resonant SAW sensors
Authors: Liu Boquan , Tang Pinghua
Published: October 2017

Purpose

This paper aims to present an context evaluation and frequency measurement method for surface acoustic wave (SAW) resonant sensor.

Design/methodology/approach

This method is based on a signal subspace construction, which, along with assembling optional value set, provides the results.

Findings

The method can assess the application context and improve the resolution and accuracy of the passive wireless SAW resonator sensor system.

Originality/value

Passive wireless SAW resonators have been used as sensor elements for different physical parameters such as temperature, pressure and force in a number of industrial and medical applications. Various wireless channel environments introduce different application contexts.
From 'A Frontier Land' to 'A Piece of North Africa in Italy': The Changing Politics of 'Tunisianness' in Mazara del Vallo, Sicily
Authors: Giglioli Ilaria
Published: October 2017

This article analyzes the conditions leading to the ‘ethnic packaging' of the Casbah neighborhood in Mazara del Vallo, Sicily, and the economic and political struggles that ensued. By studying the changing relationship between the neighborhood's built environment, the racialization of Tunisian migrants and the town's transitioning economy, it analyzes transformations of the Casbah from a working‐class Sicilian neighborhood, to an ‘insanitary' Tunisian ghetto, to a showcase of the town's Mediterranean multiculturalism. Through this analysis, the article makes three arguments. Firstly, by showing that ‘ethnic packaging' does not always lead to gentrification but may engender other types of conflict, it argues that the ‘marketization' of urban diversity has a variety of consequences tied to cities' positions in broader geographies of uneven development. Secondly, by showing that the changing racialization of Tunisian migrants was produced both through changes to Mazara's built environment and through shifting territorial relations within Italy and across the Mediterranean, it develops a multi‐scalar analysis of racialization. Thirdly, by showing that Sicilian depictions of Tunisian migrants changed according to shifting understandings of Sicilian modernity vis‐à‐vis the north of Italy, it argues that Italian immigration discourses develop in relation to internal forms of ‘othering' of southern Italians.
‘It is the People that Have Made Glen Innes’: State‐led Gentrification and the Reconfiguration of Urban Life in Auckland
Authors: Gordon Renee , Collins Francis L. , Kearns Robin
Published: October 2017

Public or state housing has ordinarily been viewed as an impediment to the forces of gentrification, as private property owners or developers are limited in their ability to purchase, renovate or redevelop houses in otherwise desirable areas. As a result, neighbourhoods with significant proportions of state‐housing and low‐income residents have often been able to establish unique identity and character, sense of place and belonging and strong social support networks. This article examines changes underway in Glen Innes, a central suburb of New Zealand's largest city, Auckland. Here, established norms around community and urban life are being rapidly and radically reworked through a wave of state‐led gentrification. We focus on experiences of displacement, the disruption of long‐established community forms, and the reconfiguration of urban life. Our particular contribution is to consider the speed and trauma of gentrification when the state is involved, the slippage between rhetoric and reality on the ground, and the challenges of researchers seeking to trace the impacts of gentrification in the lives of those who have been displaced.
Diffusion tensor imaging determines three‐dimensional architecture of human cervix: a cross‐sectional study
Authors: Nott JP , Pervolaraki E , Benson AP , Bonney EA , Pickering JD , Wilkinson N , Simpson NAB
Published: October 2017

Objective

To determine the microarchitecture of the cervix using high‐resolution diffusion tensor (DT) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Design

Cross‐sectional study.

Setting

Leeds, UK.

Sample

Women undergoing hysterectomy for benign pathology.

Methods

Ex‐vivo DT‐MRI measurements were obtained using a 9.4‐T Bruker nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectrometer on seven fixed human cervices obtained at hysterectomy. A deterministic fibre‐tracking algorithm was used to indirectly visualise underlying fibre organisation. Inter‐regional differences in tissue structure were sought using quantitative measurements of diffusion.

Main outcome measure

The identification of an occlusive structure in the region corresponding to the internal cervical os.

Results

Fibre tracking demonstrated two regions: an outer circular and inner longitudinal layer. The total circumferential tract volume (TV) was greatest in the proximal region of the cervix (TV: proximal, 271 ± 198 mm3; middle, 186 ± 119 mm3; distal, 38 ± 36 mm3). Fractional anisotropy (FA) and apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) measurements were significantly different between regions in all samples (P < 0.0005), indicating greater tract density and organisation towards the internal os.

Conclusion

Fibre tracking infers a system of dense, well‐defined, encircling fibres in the proximal region of the cervix, corresponding to the location of the internal os. These findings may provide evidence of specific anatomic microarchitecture within the cervix able to resist intrauterine forces associated with pregnancy.

Tweetable abstract

Diffusion‐tensor MRI derived tractography identified well‐defined encircling fibres at the internal os.
Assessing Parameter Uncertainty of a Semi‐Distributed Hydrology Model for a Shallow Aquifer Dominated Environmental System
Authors: Samadi S. , Tufford D.L. , Carbone G.J.
Published: October 2017

This paper examines the performance of a semi‐distributed hydrology model (i.e., Soil and Water Assessment Tool [SWAT]) using Sequential Uncertainty FItting (SUFI‐2), generalized likelihood uncertainty estimation (GLUE), parameter solution (ParaSol), and particle swarm optimization (PSO). We applied SWAT to the Waccamaw watershed, a shallow aquifer dominated Coastal Plain watershed in the Southeastern United States (U.S.). The model was calibrated (2003‐2005) and validated (2006‐2007) at two U.S. Geological Survey gaging stations, using significant parameters related to surface hydrology, hydrogeology, hydraulics, and physical properties. SWAT performed best during intervals with wet and normal antecedent conditions with varying sensitivity to effluent channel shape and characteristics. In addition, the calibration of all algorithms depended mostly on Manning's n‐value for the tributary channels as the surface friction resistance factor to generate runoff. SUFI‐2 and PSO simulated the same relative probability distribution tails to those observed at an upstream outlet, while all methods (except ParaSol) exhibited longer tails at a downstream outlet. The ParaSol model exhibited large skewness suggesting a global search algorithm was less capable of characterizing parameter uncertainty. Our findings provide insights regarding parameter sensitivity and uncertainty as well as modeling diagnostic analysis that can improve hydrologic theory and prediction in complex watersheds. Editor's note: This paper is part of the featured series on SWAT Applications for Emerging Hydrologic and Water Quality Challenges. See the February 2017 issue for the introduction and background to the series.
Modifications of the National Early Warning Score for patients with chronic respiratory disease
Authors: Pedersen N. E. , Rasmussen L. S. , Petersen J. A. , Gerds T. A. , Østergaard D. , Lippert A.
Published: October 2017

Background

The National Early Warning Score (NEWS) uses physiological variables to detect deterioration in hospitalized patients. However, patients with chronic respiratory disease may have abnormal variables not requiring interventions. We studied how the Capital Region of Denmark NEWS Override System (CROS), the Chronic Respiratory Early Warning Score (CREWS) and the Salford NEWS (S‐NEWS) affected NEWS total scores and NEWS performance.

Methods

In an observational study, we included patients with chronic respiratory disease. The frequency of use of CROS and the NEWS total score changes caused by CROS, CREWS and S‐NEWS were described. NEWS, CROS, CREWS and S‐NEWS were compared using 48‐h mortality and intensive care unit (ICU) admission within 48 h as outcomes.

Results

We studied 11,266 patients during 25,978 admissions; the use of CROS lowered NEWS total scores in 40% of included patients. CROS, CREWS and S‐NEWS had lower sensitivities than NEWS for 48‐h mortality and ICU admission. Specificities and PPV were higher. CROS, CREWS and S‐NEWS downgraded, respectively, 51.5%, 44.9% and 32.8% of the NEWS total scores from the ‘mandatory doctor presence’ and ‘immediate doctor presence and specialist consultation’ total score intervals to lower intervals.

Conclusion

Capital Region of Denmark NEWS Override System was frequently used in patients with chronic respiratory disease. CROS, CREWS and S‐NEWS reduced sensitivity for 48‐h mortality and ICU admission. Using the methodology prevalent in the NEWS literature, we cannot conclude on the safety of these systems. Future prospective studies should investigate the balance between detection rate and alarm fatigue of different systems, or use controlled designs and patient‐centred outcomes.
Attitudes of physicians towards the care of critically ill elderly patients – a European survey
Authors: Guidet B. , De Lange D. W. , Christensen S. , Moreno R. , Fjølner J. , Dumas G. , Flaatten H.
Published: October 2017

Background

Very elderly patients are one of the fastest growing population in ICUs worldwide. There are lots of controversies regarding admission, discharge of critically ill elderly patients, and also on treatment intensity during the ICU stay. As a consequence, practices vary considerably from one ICU to another. In that perspective, we collected opinions of experienced ICU physicians across Europe on statements focusing on patients older than 80.

Methods

We sent an online questionnaire to the coordinator ICU physician of all participating ICUs of an recent European, observational study of Very old critically Ill Patients (VIP1 study). This questionnaire contained 12 statements about admission, triage, treatment and discharge of patients older than 80.

Results

We received answers from 162 ICUs (52% of VIP1‐study) spanning 20 different European countries. There were major disagreements between ICUs. Responders disagree that: there is clear evidence that ICU admission is beneficial (37%); seeking relatives’ opinion is mandatory (17%); written triage guidelines must be available either at the hospital or ICU level (20%); level of care should be reduced (25%); a consultation of a geriatrician should be sought (34%) and a geriatrician should be part of the post‐ICU trail (11%). The percentage of disagreement varies between statements and European regions.

Conclusion

There are major differences in the attitude of European ICU physicians on the admission, triage and treatment policies of patients older than 80 emphasizing the lack of consensus and poor level of evidence for most of the statements and outlining the need for future interventional studies.
Antipsychotic plasma levels in the assessment of poor treatment response in schizophrenia
Authors: McCutcheon R. , Beck K. , D'Ambrosio E. , Donocik J. , Gobjila C. , Jauhar S. , Kaar S. , Pillinger T. , Reis Marques T. , Rogdaki M. , Howes O. D.
Published: October 2017

Objective

Treatment resistance is a challenge for the management of schizophrenia. It is not always clear whether inadequate response is secondary to medication ineffectiveness, as opposed to medication underexposure due to non‐adherence or pharmacokinetic factors. We investigated the prevalence of subtherapeutic antipsychotic plasma levels in patients identified as treatment‐resistant by their treating clinician.

Method

Between January 2012 and April 2017, antipsychotic plasma levels were measured in 99 individuals provisionally diagnosed with treatment‐resistant schizophrenia by their treating clinicians, but not prescribed clozapine. Patients were followed up to determine whether they were subsequently admitted to hospital.

Results

Thirty‐five per cent of plasma levels were subtherapeutic, and of these, 34% were undetectable. Black ethnicity (P = 0.006) and lower dose (P < 0.001) were significantly associated with subtherapeutic/undetectable plasma levels. Individuals with subtherapeutic/undetectable levels were significantly more likely to be admitted to hospital (P = 0.02).

Conclusion

A significant proportion of patients considered treatment‐resistant have subtherapeutic antipsychotic plasma levels, and this is associated with subsequent admission. The presence of subtherapeutic plasma levels may suggest a need to address adherence or pharmacokinetic factors as opposed to commencing clozapine treatment. While antipsychotic levels are not recommended for the routine adjustment of dosing, they may assist with the assessment of potential treatment resistance in schizophrenia.
Inhibition of fatty acid amide hydrolase in the central amygdala alleviates co‐morbid expression of innate anxiety and excessive alcohol intake
Authors: Stopponi Serena , Fotio Yannick , Domi Ana , Borruto Anna Maria , Natividad Luis , Roberto Marisa , Ciccocioppo Roberto , Cannella Nazzareno
Published: October 2017

Fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) is an enzyme that prominently degrades the major endocannabinoid N‐arachidonoylethanolamine (anandamide). Inhibition of this enzyme leads to increased anandamide levels in brain regions that modulate stress and anxiety. Recently, we found that genetically selected Marchigian Sardinian alcohol‐preferring (msP) rats display hyperactive FAAH in amygdalar regions that was associated with increased stress sensitivity and a hyper‐anxious phenotype. Our previous work has also demonstrated that msPs display an innate preference for and excessive consumption of alcohol, potentially reflecting a form of self‐medication to gain relief from hyper‐anxious states. Here, we expand on our previous work by microinjecting the selective FAAH inhibitor URB597 (vehicle, 0.03, 0.1 and 1.0 μg per rat) into the central amygdala (CeA) and basolateral amygdala in msP versus non‐selected Wistar rats to evaluate the effects of localized FAAH inhibition on operant alcohol self‐administration and restraint‐induced anxiety using the elevated plus maze. Intra‐CeA URB597 significantly reduced alcohol self‐administration in msP but not in Wistar rats. Intra‐basolateral amygdala URB597 also attenuated alcohol drinking in msPs, although the effect was less pronounced relative to CeA treatment. In contrast, control experiments administering URB597 into the ventral tegmental area produced no genotypic differences in drinking. We also found that URB597 treatment in the CeA significantly reduced the anxiogenic effects of restraint stress in msPs, although no effects were detected in Wistars. Dysregulation of FAAH regulated systems in the major output region of the amygdala may drive the propensity for co‐morbid expression of anxiety and excessive alcohol use.
Improvements in Archaeomagnetic Dating in Western Europe from the Late Bronze to the Late Iron Ages: An Alternative to the Problem of the Hallstattian Radiocarbon Plateau
Authors: Hervé G. , Lanos P.
Published: October 2017

We present a new curve of the directional secular variation of the geomagnetic field in Western Europe between 1500 bce and 200 ce. Its computation relies on a Bayesian framework. The fast secular variation during the Late Bronze and Early Iron Ages makes archaeomagnetic dating efficient with a respective precision of 150–200 and 60–100 years during these periods. The Bayesian method also provides posterior date distributions that refine the dating of reference data, especially during the period of the Hallstattian radiocarbon plateau. Archaeomagnetism becomes a valuable alternative to radiocarbon and will help to improve the archaeological chronologies.
Comparative risks of diabetes‐related complications of basal insulins: a longitudinal population‐based cohort of type 1 diabetes 1999–2013 in Taiwan
Authors: Ou Huang‐Tz , Lee Tsung‐Ying , Du Ye‐Fong , Li Chung‐Yi
Published: October 2017

Aim

We compared the effects of two types of basal insulin: long‐acting insulin analogues vs. intermediate/long‐acting human insulin, on diabetes‐related complications in type 1 diabetes.

Methods

A total of 1188 patients with type 1 diabetes who had recently started on long‐acting insulin analogues or intermediate/long‐acting human insulin were identified in 2004–2008 and followed until death or the end of 2013. Clinical outcomes included acute (i.e. hyperglycaemia, hypoglycaemia) and chronic (i.e. nephropathy, retinopathy, neuropathy, cardiovascular diseases) complications. Diabetes‐related complications were measured as a composite outcome which included acute and chronic complications. Cox proportional hazards models were used to assess the time to event hazard ratio. Three propensity score (PS) methods were applied to adjust for baseline imbalances between basal insulin groups, including the PS‐matching approach (as the main analysis), standardized mortality ratio weighting (SMRW) and inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW).

Results

Long‐acting insulin analogues vs. intermediate/long‐acting human insulin had a lower risk for a composite of diabetes‐related complications {adjusted hazards ratios [aHRs] [95% confidence interval (CI)] 0.782 [0.639, 0.956], 0.743 [0.598, 0.924] and 0.699 [0.577, 0.846] according to the PS‐matching approach, SMRW and IPTW, respectively}. Compared with intermediate/long‐acting human insulin, using long‐acting insulin analogues had a lower hypoglycaemia risk: aHRs (95% CI) 0.681 (0.498, 0.930), 0.662 (0.466, 0.943) and 0.639 (0.471, 0.867) from the PS‐matching approach, SMRW and IPTW, respectively. No statistical differences were found between two types of insulin on individual chronic complications.

Conclusion

A trend of lower diabetes‐related complications associated with long‐acting insulin analogues vs. intermediate/long‐acting human insulin was observed. A reduced hypoglycaemia risk with long‐acting insulin analogues was confirmed in this ‘real‐world’ study.
Bar versus ball attachments for implant‐supported overdentures in complete edentulism: A systematic review
Authors: Anas El‐Wegoud Marwah , Fayyad Ahmed , Kaddah Amal , Nabhan Ashraf
Published: October 2017

Background

Implant‐supported overdenture is one of the most predictable treatment options used in complete edentulism. However, differences have been reported between bar and ball attachments used to retain overdentures in terms of patient satisfaction and prosthesis retention.

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to compare the effectiveness of bar and ball attachments for conventionally loaded implant‐supported overdentures in completely edentulous patients to improve patient satisfaction and prosthesis retention.

Materials and methods

We conducted the review according to the Cochrane methods and following MECIR standards. We searched Cochrane Oral Health Group Trial register, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, MEDLINE, and the WHO ICTRP (March 31, 2017). Two review authors assessed trials for inclusion and risk of bias, extracted data, and checked for accuracy. We have expressed results as risk ratio or mean differences, together with their 95% confidence intervals.

Results

We included 10 trials (465 participants). After 5 y, one trial reported higher patient satisfaction when bar attachment was used (MD 1.30, 95% CI 0.20–2.40), and reported no difference between both systems in prosthesis retention (MD −0.90, 95% CI −1.90 to 0.10). Two trials reported no implant failures after 1 and 5 y in both attachments. Downgrading of evidence was based on the unclear risk of bias of included studies and the wide CI crossing the line of no effect.

Conclusions

There is insufficient evidence to support bar or ball attachment to be used with implant‐supported overdentures in completely edentulous patients to improve patient satisfaction and prosthesis retention (PROSPERO 2014:CRD42014014594).
Effects of modified abutment characteristics on peri‐implant soft tissue health: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Sanz‐Martín Ignacio , Sanz‐Sánchez Ignacio , Carrillo de Albornoz Ana , Figuero Elena , Sanz Mariano
Published: October 2017

Objectives

The purpose of this systematic review was to evaluate the impact of the abutment characteristics on peri‐implant tissue health and to identify the most suitable material and surface characteristics.

Methods

A protocol was developed aimed to answer the following focused question: “Which is the effect of the modification of the abutment design in regard to the maintenance of the peri‐implant soft tissue health?” Further subanalysis aimed to investigate the impact of the abutment material, macroscopic design, surface topography and surface manipulation. Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) with a follow‐up of at least 6 months after implant loading were considered as inclusion criteria. Meta‐analyses were performed whenever possible.

Results

Nineteen final publications from thirteen investigations were included. The results from the meta‐analysis indicated that zirconia abutments (Zi) experienced less increase in BOP values over time [n = 3; WMD = −26.96; 95% CI (−45.00; −8.92); p = .003] and less plaque accumulation [n = 1; MD = −20.00; 95% CI (−41.47; 1.47); p = .068] when compared with titanium abutments (Ti). Bone loss was influenced by the method of abutment decontamination [n = 1; MD = −0.44; 95% CI (−0.65; −0.23); p < .001]. The rest of the studied outcomes did not show statistically significant differences.

Conclusions

The macroscopic design, the surface topography and the manipulation of the implant abutment did not have a significant influence on peri‐implant inflammation. In contrast, the abutment material demonstrated increased BOP values over time for Ti when compared to Zi abutments.
See and be seen: Infant–caregiver social looking during locomotor free play
Authors: Franchak John M. , Kretch Kari S. , Adolph Karen E.
Published: October 2017

Face‐to‐face interaction between infants and their caregivers is a mainstay of developmental research. However, common laboratory paradigms for studying dyadic interaction oversimplify the act of looking at the partner's face by seating infants and caregivers face to face in stationary positions. In less constrained conditions when both partners are freely mobile, infants and caregivers must move their heads and bodies to look at each other. We hypothesized that face looking and mutual gaze for each member of the dyad would decrease with increased motor costs of looking. To test this hypothesis, 12‐month‐old crawling and walking infants and their parents wore head‐mounted eye trackers to record eye movements of each member of the dyad during locomotor free play in a large toy‐filled playroom. Findings revealed that increased motor costs decreased face looking and mutual gaze: Each partner looked less at the other's face when their own posture or the other's posture required more motor effort to gain visual access to the other's face. Caregivers mirrored infants' posture by spending more time down on the ground when infants were prone, perhaps to facilitate face looking. Infants looked more at toys than at their caregiver's face, but caregivers looked at their infant's face and at toys in equal amounts. Furthermore, infants looked less at toys and faces compared to studies that used stationary tasks, suggesting that the attentional demands differ in an unconstrained locomotor task. Taken together, findings indicate that ever‐changing motor constraints affect real‐life social looking.
Abnormal drainage of inferior vena cava to left atrium together with a partial abnormal pulmonary venous drainage to right atrium in the presence of atrial septal defect
Authors: Deyaa Omar , Naguib Asmaa , Awad Eslam , Romeih Soha
Published: October 2017

The direct abnormal drainage of the inferior vena cava (IVC), while rare, is well‐recognized anomaly of systemic venous drainage. It has been reported both in isolation and in association with other cardiac defects. This is a case of an abnormal drainage of IVC into left atrium (LA) together with partial abnormal pulmonary venous drainage to the right atrium (RA) and atrium septal defect (ASD).