bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
68Ga-PSMA PET/CT Revealing Unusual Inguinal Canal and Distant Nodal Metastasis in a Case of Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer
Authors: Vadi Shelvin Kumar , Kumar Rajender , Mittal Bhagwant Rai , Singh Harmandeep , Singh Shrawan Kumar
Published: February 2018

68Gallium-prostate-specific membrane antigen (68Ga-PSMA) is well established in the imaging of prostate cancer (PC). Here, we report a case of castration-resistant PC who underwent 68Ga-PSMA PET/CT for recurrence evaluation, which revealed metastatic lesions in distant lymph nodes and additionally an unusual metastatic deposit in the inguinal canal. The second 68Ga-PSMA PET/CT done after oral hormonal therapy yielded a favorable response. This pattern of distant metastatic spread is a rare presentation of PC, and PSMA PET/CT revealed the unusual metastasis in the inguinal canal with a timely therapy culminating in favorable disease response.
The Findings on Bone Scintigraphy in Patients With Suspected Tumor-Induced Osteomalacia Should Not Be Overlooked
Authors: Wang Ling , Zhang Shu , Jing Hongli , Chen Libo , Wang Zhenghua , Li Fang
Published: February 2018

Purpose

Tumor-induced osteomalacia (TIO) is a chronic, devastating disease. The causative tumor is usually a small benign one that is very difficult to localize. Because the presenting symptoms include diffuse bone pain, a bone scintigraphy is commonly performed to determine the cause of the pain before TIO is suspected. In this retrospective investigation, we tried to assess whether bone scintigraphy acquired will be helpful in the eventual identification of the culprit tumor.

Methods

The images of bone scan and clinical charts of total 91 patients with confirmed TIO were retrospectively reviewed. The image findings were compared with the results of other imaging studies, surgical notes, histopathologic examinations and clinical follow-ups.

Results

In 76.9% (70 of 91) of the patients, the findings of bone scintigraphy did not correspond to the sites of the causative tumors, which were subsequently located. However, in 23.1% of the patients (21 of 91), the sites of the causative tumors corresponded to one of the abnormal technetium 99m-methyl diphosphonate activity on bone scintigraphy. More importantly, 6 tumors corresponded to the dominant activity on bone scintigraphy.

Conclusions

Although findings of whole-body scintigraphy are nonspecific in patients with TIO, careful evaluation of bone scintigraphy results can be helpful in guiding further evaluation in some patients.
A critical appraisal of gabapentinoids for pain in cancer patients
Authors: Jordan Roberta I. , Mulvey Matthew R. , Bennett Michael I.
Published: February 2018

Purpose of review

Gabapentinoids are frequently used in the management of cancer pain. In recent Cochrane systematic reviews, although there was an abundance of evidence relating to non-cancer pain, only a few studies related to cancer pain. This review summarizes recent randomised controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating the use of gabapentinoids for tumour-related (as monotherapy or part of combination therapy) and treatment-related pain.

Recent findings

For tumour-related pain, ten out of thirteen studies showed statistically significant benefits in favour of gabapentinoids. When used, as part of monotherapy or combination therapy, benefits were observed in five out of six studies evaluating gabapentin, and in six out of eight studies evaluating pregabalin. For treatment-related pain, none of the four studies (two gabapentin, two pregabalin) showed statistically significant benefits in favour of gabapentinoids. Unfortunately, many of the studies included were limited by small sample size, lack of blinding, and inadequate follow-up.

More and better quality studies are required, although it may be challenging to accomplish in this patient population. Gabapentinoids may offer benefits to cancer patients with pain, but careful titration and monitoring of adverse effects is necessary.
Experience, Knowledge, and Attitudes of Child and Adolescent Psychiatrists in Belgium Toward Pediatric Electroconvulsive Therapy
Authors: De Meulenaere Maarten , De Meulenaere Jan , Ghaziuddin Neera , Sienaert Pascal
Published: February 2018

Objective

The purpose of the present study was to ascertain the experience, knowledge, and attitudes of child and adolescent psychiatrists toward the use of ECT (electroconvulsive therapy) in children and adolescents in Belgium.

Methods

A questionnaire was mailed to all the members of the Flemish and Walloon Association of Child and Adolescent Psychiatrists.

Results

Thirty-five percent (n = 151) of the psychiatrists responded to the questionnaire. Sixty-seven percent (n = 101) rated their knowledge about ECT in children and adolescents as nil or negligible. Only one percent (n = 2) estimated their knowledge to be advanced. Fifteen percent (n = 22) were aware of a minor treated with ECT. Ten (n = 16) and thirty-one percent (n = 47) believed that ECT is a safe treatment for children and adolescents, respectively. Only six percent (n = 10) would recommend ECT for a major psychiatric disorder in a child, whereas thirty-eight percent (n = 58) for an adolescent. Fifty-three percent (n = 71) regarded ECT as a treatment of last resort. A significant correlation was identified between knowledge and attitudes toward the use of ECT in minors. Respondents with some or advanced knowledge perceived ECT as a safer and a more effective treatment option than those with negligible knowledge. Most (91%, n = 138) of the child and adolescent psychiatrists are enthusiastic to learn more about the use of ECT in minors.

Conclusions

Flemish and Walloon child and adolescents psychiatrists have very little experience with using ECT in minors. They self-estimated their knowledge as negligible but are keen to learn more about this treatment option. The lack of knowledge likely explains the rare use of ECT in Belgium for children and adolescents with serious psychiatric disorders.
Product diffusion through on-demand information-seeking behaviour
Authors: Riedl Christoph , Bjelland Johannes , Canright Geoffrey , Iqbal Asif , Engø-Monsen Kenth , Qureshi Taimur , Sundsøy Pål Roe , Lazer David
Published: February 2018

Most models of product adoption predict S-shaped adoption curves. Here we report results from two country-scale experiments in which we findlinearadoption curves. We show evidence that the observed linear pattern is the result of active information-seeking behaviour: individuals actively pulling information from several central sources facilitated by modern Internet searches. Thus, a constant baseline rate of interest sustains product diffusion, resulting in a linear diffusion process instead of the S-shaped curve of adoption predicted by many diffusion models. The main experiment seeded 70 000 (48 000 in Experiment 2) unique voucher codes for the same product with randomly sampled nodes in a social network of approximately 43 million individuals with about 567 million ties. We find that the experiment reached over 800 000 individuals with 80% of adopters adopting the same product—a winner-take-all dynamic consistent with search engine driven rankings that would not have emerged had the products spread only through a network of social contacts. We provide evidence for (and characterization of) this diffusion process driven by active information-seeking behaviour through analyses investigating (a) patterns of geographical spreading; (b) the branching process; and (c) diffusion heterogeneity. Using data on adopters' geolocation we show that social spreading is highly localized, while on-demand diffusion is geographically independent. We also show that cascades started by individuals who actively pull information from central sources are more effective at spreading the product among their peers.
Mammalian Cell Entry domains are required for bile resistance and virulence inSalmonella
Authors: Isom Georgia L. , Rooke Jessica L. , Antunes Camila A. , Sheehan Emma , Wells Timothy J. , Icke Christopher , Cunningham Adam F. , Cole Jeffrey A. , Henderson Ian R. , Rossiter Amanda E.
Published: February 2018

MCE domains were first reported inMycobacteriaas having a role inMammalianCellEntry, with subsequent studies showing their importance during infection. Here, we have examined the function of MCE proteins inSalmonellaTyphimurium during mammalian infection. We report that MCE proteins are required forSalmonellavirulence, but that this is not related to decreased adherence, entry or survival in mammalian cells. Instead, we reveal that MCE proteins are required forSalmonellabile resistance, in particular to withstand bile salts such as cholate and deoxycholate. Based on our previous work inEscherichia coli, and other studies that have reported roles for MCE proteins in membrane biogenesis, we propose thatSalmonellalacking MCE domains have a defective outer membrane that results in bile sensitivity and decreased virulencein vivo. These results suggest that MCE domains mediate fundamental aspects of bacterial membrane physiology as opposed to a proposed direct role in mammalian cell entry, explaining their conservation across both pathogenic and non-pathogenic bacteria.
Topology highlights mesoscopic functional equivalence between imagery and perception
Authors: Ibáñez-Marcelo Esther , Campioni Lisa , Phinyomark Angkoon , Petri Giovanni , Santarcangelo Enrica L.
Published: February 2018

The functional equivalence between mental images and perception or motion has been proposed on the basis of neuroimaging evidence of large spatially overlapping activations between real and imagined sensori-motor conditions. However, similar local activation patterns do not imply the same mesoscopic integration of brain regions active during imagery and perception or action. Here we present the first EEG evidence of topological equivalence between functional network organization at intermediate and global scales during tasks. We show that the degree of functional equivalence varies in the population and is associated with different magnitudes in the restructuring of the functional connectivity between imagery and real tasks. In particular, changes observed during imagery with respect to basal conditions account for the cognitive effort experienced during imagery, and subjects characterized by stronger functional equivalence exhibit smaller topological deviations in the imagination tasks performed after real tasks, thus showing learning effects. Altogether, our findings point to different sensori-cognitive information processing in the subjects showing different functional equivalence. We anticipate our results to be a starting point for a novel dynamical description of functional equivalence, which will be relevant for socio-cognitive theories of embodiment and cognitive formulations of how different selves emerge from neurophysiological assets.
Transformational branding for B2B business: protective packaging company
Authors: Lau Kong Cheen , Lim Luke
Published: February 2018

Purpose

The concept of brand transformation concerns a brand strategy that advocates radical changes. It involves a collective set of actions and activities that are coherently steered to regenerate the engagement experience of the target market emanating from the brand strategy. Nevertheless, there are still lack of case studies demonstrating this in the B2B business sector. The purpose of this paper is to exhibit a brand transformation initiative taken by a B2B business, particularly the handling challenges leading to the initiative coupled with the framework and processes involved to make it a success.

Design/methodology/approach

A case study method was applied with documentation of inputs captured from different stakeholders. Consulting practitioners from a brand consultancy involved in the brand transformation initiative documented interviews and audit findings which offered first-hand report regarding their involvement and experience of bringing the B2B business through the brand transformation journey.

Findings

Brand transformation at Fagerdala warranted a radical re-orientation of the brand positioning that supports a clear business intent that was put forward. The initiative encompasses strong leadership, commitment and change management to drive transformational changes involving both internal and external stakeholders. An innovation oriented mind-set is critical to drive radical changes to support coherent efforts that could ultimately engender to distinct brand experience to targeted stakeholders.

Practical implications

This paper provides brand managers, particularly the brand owners practical and realisable example on how to plan and execute brand transformation in a B2B business environment. More specifically, it highlights the indicators for embarking on this initiative, the approach to drive brand transformation based on established brand strategy frameworks and finally how to execute the strategy in a practical manner.

Originality/value

This paper extends the concept of brand transformation that has recently been mentioned in literature from one of conceptual perspective to one of practice perspective. It emphasises and underscores some of the details of execution that is instrumental in the practice of brand transformation within a B2B industry sector.
Regular medical checkup behaviour: preventing is better than curing
Authors: Maulana Amalia E. , Pradana Hadist Genta
Published: February 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the factors that drive or impede the intention of Indonesian consumers to perform regular medical checkup (MCU).

Design/methodology/approach

This study begins with an ethnographic study to ascertain the determinant factors that motivate or hinder an individual from performing regular MCU. The study involved stakeholders in various health services providers, including patients and medical professionals. The quantitative part of this study focuses on “preventive” segment of consumers. A survey was conducted covering 303 respondents, consisting of two sub-segments of people labelled “healthy lifestyle” and “unhealthy lifestyle”.

Findings

Consumer behaviour with regards to needs for MCU must be categorised not based on demographics, but their health status – preventive or curative. The “preventive” group was found to have differences in triggers and barriers between the healthy vs unhealthy lifestyle subgroups. For the “healthy lifestyle” subgroup, the determining factors for a regular MCU are the perceived benefit of action, social deviance, and cost perception. For the “unhealthy lifestyle” subgroup, the determining factors for a regular MCU are the social deviance, disease heritage, belief in traditional medicine, no urgency and cost perception.

Research limitations/implications

The qualitative study part indicated the differences between two segments: preventive vs curative. The quantitative study part is only conducted in the preventive segment and not covering the curative segment. It would be interesting to see the differences between these two segments.

Practical implications

Implication of study: to create contextual marketing communication in each stakeholders/segments – to reach the marketing objectives. Different segment has different issues to handle and need a different marketing communication programme.

Originality/value

Previous studies have focused on analysing the differences in groups based on their demographics, which does not illustrate a homogenous need for an MCU. This study contributes by addressing that researchers must differentiate between “preventive” and “curative” groups. Additionally, the study of triggers and barriers has interestingly found that the determinant factors for healthy and unhealthy lifestyle are not the same.
Exploration of Indian rural markets and marketing
Authors: Parida Rashmi Ranjan , Sahney Sangeeta
Published: February 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to draw qualitative insights about Indian rural markets and marketing. First, the key aspirations of the rural customers are listed; then the paper explores an understanding about this potential market among marketing professionals; and finally, issues and concerns of customers in the Indian rural market are discussed.

Design/methodology/approach

In order to achieve the objectives, qualitative methodologies were used. An interview approach was adopted to identify the aspirations of rural customers. To draw insights into the perspectives of marketing professionals, focus group discussions (FGDs) and open online responses along with content analysis were used. FGDs were conducted to obtain insights pertaining to issues and concern from rural customers.

Findings

The paper enlists and ranks the key aspirations of Indian rural customers; a well-furnished concrete house tops the list followed by acquisition of land and property. The marketing professionals discuss their understanding of rural markets from the perspective of brand consciousness to the wave of changes they see. The rural customers speak about how children are new opinion leaders to the cultural threat they perceive.

Research limitations/implications

The Indian rural market, where roughly 12 percent of the global population resides, provides umpteen business opportunities. An understanding of the rural market would help marketers and business organizations build appropriate market strategies to tap the market.

Originality/value

The paper attempts to explore an understanding on the Indian rural market, which has not been researched extensively. The research frame work is holistic and involves the views and perspectives of key stakeholders.
Couchsurfing: a new form of sustainable tourism and an exploratory study of its motivations and its effect on satisfaction with the stay
Authors: Zgolli Samar , Zaiem Imed
Published: February 2018

Purpose

This study seeks to explore the motivations behind couchsurfers’ decision to go couchsurfing, and also to explore the influence of the couchsurfing experience on the satisfaction with the stay.

Design/methodology/approach

The exploratory research is based on a qualitative study using several methods: a netnography, two focus groups and the critical incident technique. Our exploratory research has enabled us to identify the main motivations behind the choice of the couchsurfing experience as a form of sustainable tourism.

Findings

The obtained results show six major motivations: Financial reasons, the cultural experience, the need for social interaction, professional reasons, the emotional entertainment and the social responsibility. Similarly, the influence of couchsurfing on the satisfaction with the stay manifests itself through the concept of love and family.

Practical implications

Managers would consider the social and friendly dimension of the touristic experience as a strategic decision. Once, this decision is taken, it is important to find out how the accommodation providers manage to deploy the values that couchsurfing promotes, which are sociability and the preoccupation with the environment and the society.

Originality/value

The research proved the importance of couchsurfing and its social aspect for the tourists. In fact, the obtained results show that the conviviality and the social relationship that is developed between couchsurfers and their hosts during their couchsurfing experience is what accounts for the tourist’s satisfaction.
Study of international tourism demand in Middle East by panel data model
Authors: Rafiei Darani Hadi , Asghari Hadi
Published: February 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to study determining factors of international tourism demand in Middle Eastern countries.

Design/methodology/approach

Panel data pattern is used for data analysis of 1995 to 2013.

Findings

Results indicate variables like trade freedom index and gross domestic product (GDP) have positive and significant impact upon tourism demand of the countries of the region. Purchasing power parity (PPP) and GDP per capita are indicators which affect the tourism demand rate in Middle East negatively.

Originality/value

It is estimated that Middle East region will claim for the bulk of tourist arrivals in following years. Therefore, this study is vital for destination managers to plan for demand in future.
Performance assessment process model for international manufacturing networks
Authors: Costa Ferreira Junior Silas , Fleury Afonso Carlos Corrêa
Published: February 2018

Purpose

Multinational companies have manufacturing operations in various countries; however, there is scarce evidence on how they assess performance of the network-based operations of their factories, called international manufacturing networks (IMN). The purpose of this paper is to propose a process model for the performance assessment of IMNs.

Design/methodology/approach

The IMN performance assessment process model was developed from the extant literature and was empirically verified in its congruency and usefulness via a multiple case research. For that, in each case the general process model was derived into a specific application that fit the type of IMN on focus. Qualitative and quantitative data were collected from the case companies’ reports, profiling forms and interviews, followed by within-case and cross-case analyses.

Findings

Evidence suggest that the process model, along with its derivations, is a valuable tool to describe and explain how IMN performance assessment unfolds in real organizational environments. Additionally, three propositions emerged: IMN performance assessment has distinct characteristics depending on the type of IMN adopted, which in turn depends on the company’s internationalization strategy; IMN performance assessment has more strategic value and importance for companies that are globally coordinated and adopt “rooted” manufacturing strategies; and companies design their IMN performance assessment on a trial-and-error basis.

Research limitations/implications

As all case-based research, this paper has generalizability limitations. Thus, next steps may include a large-scale survey and an action research that will develop and implement a full-fledged IMN performance assessment.

Practical implications

The process model and descriptive insights provide a diagnostic tool and subsidies that may encourage managers to review and improve their current IMN performance assessment.

Originality/value

The process model contributes to addressing a 20-year gap concerning how to approach IMN performance assessment in a holistic and systematic manner.
Purchasing in service triads: the influence of contracting on contract management
Authors: Broekhuis Manda , Scholten Kirstin
Published: February 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate purchasing practices in service triads by exploring the link between ex ante contracting and ex post contract management and how these practices influence the satisfaction of buyers and suppliers (in concessionary arrangements) with their relationship in terms of meeting the needs of the buyer’s customers.

Design/methodology/approach

An in-depth exploratory multiple case study was carried out in a shop-in-shop context. Multi-method and multi-source data collection included interviews, documents and the contracts between buyer and supplier, providing evidence of the formal and relational structures in both the contracting and contract management stages.

Findings

The case findings provide evidence that behavioural standards established in a social contract are important prerequisites for the establishment and subsequent management of a formal contract. Second, this study shows that, when outsourcing core services in a service triad, a combination of performance-oriented and behavioural-oriented contract terms, covering a mix of topics related to both the customer-experience and to buyer-supplier-oriented aspects, contribute to aligning the buyer’s, suppliers’ and customers’ interests. The main findings are presented in a causal model and formulated as propositions.

Originality/value

This paper is one of the first studies to explore how core services are outsourced in a service triad. It provides evidence that the social contract between buyer and supplier influences the establishment of the formal contract as well as contract management, and a mix of contract topics, some related to the customers’ experience and others purely buyer-supplier oriented, contribute to the alignment of buyer’s, suppliers’ and customers’ interests.
Resource commitment and sustainability: a reverse logistics performance process model
Authors: Morgan Tyler R. , Tokman Mert , Richey Robert Glenn , Defee Cliff
Published: February 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to extend existing and motivate future sustainable supply chain management (SCM) and logistics research by examining a structure-conduct-performance framework linking resource commitment to sustainable SCM, reverse logistics, and operational performance. A sustainable reverse logistics capability is investigated as mediating the performance benefits associated with resource commitments to sustainable SCM.

Design/methodology/approach

Survey methods and structural equation modeling were used to collect and analyze data from 180 supply chain professionals.

Findings

The results of a mediated model suggest that resource commitments may be used to develop a sustainable reverse logistics capability, reducing the environmental impact of reverse logistics activities. A strong sustainable reverse logistics capability results from resources committed specifically to sustainable reverse logistics and a commitment to the sustainability of the supply chain.

Research limitations/implications

This study applied a purposefully general sampling procedure. Specific industries may have additional constraints (e.g. risk, transparency, governance factors) that directly impact reverse logistics. These constraints are limitations of the study as well as opportunities for future research. Resource commitment is critical to the success of an overall firm strategy to build a sustainable supply chain, especially when considering reverse logistics.

Practical implications

As managers examine the benefits of sustainable SCM, they must consider the resources required. For firms engaging in sustainable SCM, developing a sustainable reverse logistics capability is a key success factor for improved performance.

Originality/value

Given the growing acceptance and importance of sustainable SCM, this research provides insights to managers and academics regarding the key mediating role of a sustainable reverse logistics capability when integrated into existing and future supply chain research frameworks and processes.
The experiences of survivors of intimate partner violence in Thai women
Authors: Sroisong Suwannee , Triamchaisri Somporn Kantharadussadee , Kongsakon Ronnachai , Bennett Trude , Ross Ratchneewan
Published: February 2018

Purpose

The study on experiences of women with intimate partner violence (IPV) reveals the meanings of recovering psychological health and independence from their abuser. However, not much study has been done to reveal experiences of abused women in their attempt to recover from their past traumatic experiences in the context of Thai society. The purpose of this paper is to explore experiences of survivors of IPV in Thai women.

Design/methodology/approach

Key informants included ten women who had experienced IPV and left abusive relationships. They were recruited from a provincial hospital in upper southern part of Thailand. Data were collected from in-depth interviews and analyzed using a phenomenological method.

Findings

Findings showed that five themes had emerged as follows: seeking help and support; decision to terminate the abusive trap; enhancing empowerment to solve their problems; learning to forgive the abuser; and adopting the ability to stand on one’s own two feet.

Originality/value

The study helps shed light on the recovering of the abused women. The survivors had faced psychological suffering and economic problems. Therefore, they need supports in order to make the exit possible and to use group support to increase their strength in fighting against an abusive relationship.
Generation Z and the tourist experience: tourist stories and use of social networks
Authors: Haddouche Hamed , Salomone Christine
Published: February 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to understand Gen Zers’ tourism experiences and more specifically, through their tourist practices and their use of social networks. It also explores how Gen Zers apprehends the concept of sustainable tourism.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors used a qualitative research approach. The study protocol was conducted in two phases. First, the authors did six semi-directive interviews of young people born between 1995 and 2002. For the second stage of the research, the authors chose the narrative research technique by asking 34 students born between 1995 and 1997 to write a micro story from their travel experience.

Findings

Although it is often presented as a narcissistic generation, seeking to put forward their “selves”, for example by posting selfies, this study reveals that Generation Z seems to show a great modesty during their tourist experiences. The results also show that sustainable tourism is not a key concept for the young people interviewed.

Research limitations/implications

Thus, it would be useful to carry out more interviews and to extend the fields of analysis. While certain rules have been respected in the selection of young respondents, the sample does not necessarily reflect all the dimensions characterizing this complex young generation.

Social implications

We know that Generation Y has been exposed to social networks, often without a filter. The results show that Generation Z is much more suspicious and vigilant with regard to social networks and their use.

Originality/value

This research used an innovative method. It shows how multidimensional this generation is and opens up many ways of research.
A latent variable analysis of corporate social responsibility and firm value
Authors: Jitmaneeroj Boonlert
Published: February 2018

Purpose

Corporate social responsibility (CSR) has several dimensions that are inherently unobservable or measured with errors. Due to measurement errors of CSR proxies, regression analysis seems inappropriate for investigating the relationship between CSR and firm value. Accounting for CSR measurement errors, the purpose of this paper is to use a latent variable analysis to examine whether CSR affects firm value.

Design/methodology/approach

This study applies a latent variable model that directly takes into account the measurement errors of CSR proxies. Moreover, the inclusion of firm-fixed effects in the model controls for time-invariant unobservable firm-specific characteristics that may drive both CSR and firm value. CSR is measured by environmental, social, and corporate governance activities.

Findings

Based on data of US firms between 2002 and 2014, this study finds conflicting evidence of a direct association between each CSR proxy and firm value. When all CSR proxies are incorporated into a latent variable model, CSR significantly positively impacts firm value. Therefore, CSR strategies based on a single measure of CSR or the equal weighting of CSR measures tend to underestimate the influence of CSR on firm value.

Practical implications

Corporate managers should enhance firm value by simultaneously engaging in environmental, social, and corporate governance activities because there is a synergistic effect with firm value. Furthermore, investors who downplay CSR factors in firm valuation can lead to significant errors in making equity investment choices.

Originality/value

This study presents a novel examination of the price-earnings ratio in the CSR valuation by using the latent variable model with firm-fixed effects.
Capital regulation, competition and risk-taking behavior of Indian banks in a simultaneous approach
Authors: Maji Santi Gopal , Hazarika Preeti
Published: February 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the association between capital regulation and risk-taking behavior of Indian banks after incorporating the influence of competition. Further, the study intends to enrich the existing literature by providing empirical evidence on the role of human resources in managing risk along with the influence of other bank specific and macroeconomic variables.

Design/methodology/approach

Secondary data on 39 listed Indian commercial banks are collected from “Capitaline Plus” corporate data database for a period of 15 years. Capital is measured by capital adequacy ratio as defined by the regulators, and two definitions of risk – credit risk and insolvency risk – are employed. Competition is measured by Herfindahl-Hirschman deposits index, concentration ratio andH-statistic. The value-added intellectual coefficient model is employed to compute human capital efficiency (HCE). Three-stage least squares technique in a simultaneous equation framework is used to estimate the coefficients.

Findings

The study finds that absolute level of regulatory capital and bank risk are positively associated, although the influence of capital on risk is not statistically significant. The influence of competition on risk is negative for all the models, which supports the “competition stability” view. The impact of human capital on bank risk is also negative for all cases.

Practical implications

The findings of the study are useful for the decision makers in several ways based on the inverse influence of competition and HCE on bank risk. Further, the observed positive association between capital and risk indicates that the capital regulation is not sufficient to enhance the stability in the banking sector.

Originality/value

This is the first study in the Indian context that incorporates the competition in the banking industry as an explanatory variable in the extant bank capital and risk relationship.
Cross-herding behavior between the stock market and the crude oil market during financial distress
Authors: BenMabrouk Houda
Published: February 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate herding behavior around the crude oil market and the stock market and the possible cross-herding behavior between the two markets. The analysis examines also the herding behavior during financial turmoil and includes the investor sentiment and market volatility.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors use a modified version of the cross-sectional standard deviation and the cross-sectional absolute deviation to include investor sentiment, financial crisis and market volatility.

Findings

The authors find that the volatility of the stock market reduces the herding behavior around the oil market and boosts that around the stock market. However, the investors’ sentiment reduces the herding around the stock market and boosts that around the crude oil market. Consequently, the authors can conclude that the herding behavior around the two markets moves inversely and the herding in each market is enhanced by the lack of information in the other market.

Research limitations/implications

This paper is limited to the herding of stocks around the crude oil market and ignores the possible herding of commodities around the oil market.

Originality/value

The originality of the paper rests on the study of the possible cross-herding behavior between the oil market and the stock market especially during financial turmoil.
Rock physics model for seismic velocity & fluid substitution in sub‐resolution interbedded sand–shale sequences
Authors: Saxena Nishank , Hofmann Ronny , Dolan Seán , Sarker Rituparna , Bao Chen , Gelinsky Stephan
Published: February 2018

The measured geophysical response of sand–shale sequences is an average over multiple layers when the tool resolution (seismic or well log) is coarser than the scale of sand–shale mixing. Shale can be found within sand–shale sequences as laminations, dispersed in sand pores, as well as load bearing clasts. We present a rock physics framework to model seismic/sonic properties of sub‐resolution interbedded shaly sands using the so‐called solid and mineral substitution models. This modelling approach stays consistent with the conceptual model of the Thomas–Stieber approach for estimating volumetric properties of shaly sands; thus, this work connects established well log data‐based petrophysical workflows with quantitative interpretation of seismic data for modelling hydrocarbon signature in sand–shale sequences. We present applications of the new model to infer thickness of sand–shale lamination (i.e., net to gross) and other volumetric properties using seismic data. Another application of the new approach is fluid substitution in sub‐resolution interbedded sand–shale sequences that operate directly at the measurement scale without the need to downscale; such a procedure has many practical advantages over the approach of “first‐downscale‐and‐then‐upscale” as it is not very sensitive to errors in estimated sand fraction and end member sand/shale properties and remains stable at small sand/shale fractions.
Time Radically AltersEx SituEvidentiary Soil 16S Bacterial Profiles Produced Via Next‐Generation Sequencing,,
Authors: Badgley Alyssa J. , Jesmok Ellen M. , Foran David R.
Published: February 2018

Previous research has revealed the potential of soil bacterial profiling for forensic purposes; however, investigators have not thoroughly examined fluctuations in microbial profiles from soil aged on evidence. In this research, soils collected from multiple habitats were placed on evidence items and sampled over time, and then bacterial profiles were generated via next‐generation sequencing of the 16SrRNAlocus. Bacterial abundance charts and nonmetric multidimensional scaling plots provided visual representation of bacterial profiles temporally, while supervised classification was used to statistically associate evidence to a source. Theex situevidence soils displayed specific, consistent taxonomic changes as they aged, resulting in their drift in multidimensional space, but never toward a different habitat. Ninety‐five percent of the 364 evidentiary profiles statistically classified to the correct habitat, with misclassification generally stemming from evidence type and increased age. Ultimately, understanding bacterial changes that occur temporally inex situsoils should enhance their use in forensic investigations.
The Effect of Individual and Pooled Profit Sharing Plans on Honesty in Managerial Reporting
Authors: Boster Charles , Majerczyk Michael , Tian Yu
Published: February 2018

Many organizations offer profit sharing plans to motivate increased effort and goal congruence. However, an unintended consequence of such plans may be to reduce honesty in managerial reporting. We investigate two commonly observed profit sharing plans (individual and pooled) in a laboratory experiment where multiple agents with private cost information submit budget requests to an employer. Consistent with our prediction based on crowding theory, our findings suggest that honesty is reduced in the presence of an individual profit sharing plan. However, when a pooled profit sharing plan is used, the adverse effects on honesty are partially mitigated. Our results suggest that an unintended consequence of profit sharing (decreased honesty) can be mitigated through interdependency from pooled plans. The results have practical implications, given that organizations have flexibility in establishing both the size and scope of their profit sharing plans. Our study also contributes to our understanding of reporting behavior, particularly in multi‐agent settings.
Nonlinear Effect of Board Size on Corporate Performance: Impact of the Cultural Backgrounds of Directors in Hong Kong
Authors: Yeung Jim C. K.
Published: February 2018

Our results reveal a curvilinear relationship between board size and firm performance after controlling the cultural backgrounds of directors. We demonstrate that the board size effect on performance is contingent on the cultural backgrounds of directors for firms listed in major Hong Kong exchanges. The proportion of Anglo‐American directors on a board negatively moderates this effect when the board is small and positively moderates the effect when the board is large. Our findings call for appropriate board sizes for listed firms and suggest that cultural diversity can positively moderate the board size effect for large boards.
Reliability of histologic assessment in patients with eosinophilic oesophagitis
Authors: Warners M. J. , Ambarus C. A. , Bredenoord A. J. , Verheij J. , Lauwers G. Y. , Walsh J. C. , Katzka D. A. , Nelson S. , van Viegen T. , Furuta G. T. , Gupta S. K. , Stitt L. , Zou G. , Parker C. E. , Shackelton L. M. , D`Haens G. R. , Sandborn W. J. , Dellon E. S. , Feagan B. G. , Collins M. H. , Jairath V. , Pai R. K.
Published: February 2018

Background

The validity of the eosinophilic oesophagitis (EoE) histologic scoring system (EoEHSS) has been demonstrated, but only preliminary reliability data exist.

Aim

Formally assess the reliability of the EoEHSS and additional histologic features.

Methods

Four expert gastrointestinal pathologists independently reviewed slides from adult patients with EoE (N = 45) twice, in random order, using standardised training materials and scoring conventions for the EoEHSS and additional histologic features agreed upon during a modified Delphi process. Intra‐ and inter‐rater reliability for scoring the EoEHSS, a visual analogue scale (VAS) of overall histopathologic disease severity, and additional histologic features were assessed using intra‐class correlation coefficients (ICCs).

Results

Almost perfect intra‐rater reliability was observed for the composite EoEHSS scores and the VAS. Inter‐rater reliability was also almost perfect for the composite EoEHSS scores and substantial for the VAS. Of the EoEHSS items, eosinophilic inflammation was associated with the highest ICC estimates and consistent with almost perfect intra‐ and inter‐rater reliability. With the exception of dyskeratotic epithelial cells and surface epithelial alteration, ICC estimates for the remaining EoEHSS items were above the benchmarks for substantial intra‐rater, and moderate inter‐rater reliability. Estimation of peak eosinophil count and number of lamina propria eosinophils were associated with the highest ICC estimates among the exploratory items.

Conclusion

The composite EoEHSS and most component items are associated with substantial reliability when assessed by central pathologists. Future studies should assess responsiveness of the score to change after a therapeutic intervention to facilitate its use in clinical trials.
Linguistic Intergroup Bias About the 2016 U.S. Presidential Candidates As a Function of Political Ideology
Authors: Ruscher Janet B. , Tipler Caroline N.
Published: February 2018

The present study investigated preference for linguistically biased characterization of events attributed to Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump during the 2016 Presidential election cycle. The linguistic intergroup bias (LIB) reflects abstract characterization of positive events attributed to ingroup members and negative events attributed to outgroup members; conversely, it also reflects concrete characterization of negative events attributed to outgroup members and positive events attributed to outgroup members. University students (N = 117) who preferred Hillary Clinton completed on‐line measures before and after the 2016 Presidential election, including liberal‐conservative ideology and measures of LIB. Participants showed clear preference for characterizations consistent with LIB (e.g., Clinton is intelligent; Trump is quick‐tempered). This pattern was more pronounced as strength of liberal ideology increased; it also was more pronounced immediately following the election than after time had passed. A smaller sample of Trump supporters also showed LIB favoring Trump. This study is the first to demonstrate that members of the electorate gravitate towards linguistic characterizations that favor their preferred political candidates and that this tendency is exacerbated by a relevant individual difference. Findings have implications for the continued polarization of the American electorate.
Is the laparoscopic approach appropriate for pediatric subhepatic appendicitis?
Authors: Aneiros Castro Belén , Cano Novillo Indalecio , García Vázquez Araceli , Yuste García Pedro , Ferrero Herrero Eduardo , Gómez Fraile Andrés
Published: February 2018

Introduction

Subhepatic appendicitis in children is an unusual condition that can be challenging for the pediatric surgeons to treat. The aim of our study was to compare the outcomes of laparoscopic appendectomies based on the position of the appendix.

Methods

The data of 1736 patients who had undergone laparoscopic appendectomy in our tertiary center were retrospectively reviewed. We compared two groups: subhepatic location (n = 56) and non‐subhepatic location (n = 1680). A P‐value of less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

There was no statistically significant difference between the demographic variables of the groups. More than half of the subhepatic appendicitises were gangrenous (44.6%) or perforated (16.1%), whereas most of the non‐subhepatic appendicitises were phlegmonous (56.9%). Extracorporeal ligation of the appendix was the preferred technique in both the subhepatic and non‐subhepatic groups (69.6% and 89.8%, respectively). The subhepatic group had a statistically significant higher incidence of technical difficulties (1.6%) and abdominal drain (18.6%) than the non‐subhepatic group, as well as a longer operative time and hospital stay. However, intraoperative and postoperative complications were similar in both groups.

Conclusion

Laparoscopic subhepatic appendectomy is safe and does not lead to increased complications. However, the technique is made difficult by the fact that the appendix is an atypical location, and the rate of complicated appendicitis is higher.
Exploration of assistive technology for uniform laparoscopic surgery
Authors: Sato Masakazu , Koizumi Minako , Hino Takahiro , Takahashi Yu , Nagashima Natsuki , Itaoka Nao , Ueshima Chiharu , Nakata Maki , Hasumi Yoko
Published: February 2018

Introduction

Laparoscopic surgery is less invasive than open surgery and is now common in various medical fields. However, laparoscopic surgery is more difficult than open surgery and often requires additional time for the operator to achieve mastery. Therefore, we investigated the use of assistive technology for uniform laparoscopic surgery.

Methods

We used the OpenCV2 library for augmented reality with an ArUco marker to detect and estimate forceps positioning. We used Sense HAT as the gyro sensor. The development platforms used were Mac OS X 10.11.3 and Raspberry Pi 3, model B.

Results

By attaching the ArUco marker to the needle holder, we could draw a line vertically to the marker. When the needle was held, a cube could be imagined, and both the needle and lines could be used to determine the appropriate position. By attaching the gyro sensor to the camera, we could detect its angle of rotation. We obtained stabilized images by rotating the image by the detected degrees; this was possible for any camera position.

Conclusions

Assistive technology allowed us to obtain consecutive converted images in real time and may be readily applicable to clinical practice.