bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The different impact of inter-organizational and intra-organizational ICT on supply chain performance
Authors: Zhang Xuan , Van Donk Dirk Pieter , van der Vaart Taco
Published: June 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to clarify the different roles of intra- and inter-organizational information and communication technology (ICT) in improving supply chain performance. It proposes different mechanisms to explain how intra- and inter-organizational ICT interact with supply chain integration, and contribute to supply chain performance. The main research question is: What are the distinctive roles of inter-organizational ICT and intra-organizational ICT in improving supply chain performance?

Design/methodology/approach

– The paper builds on original survey data of 320 Chinese manufacturing firms gathered in China.

Findings

– The paper shows that inter-organizational ICT has a positive direct relationship with supply chain performance and this relationship is mediated by supply chain integration. Intra-organizational ICT has no direct relationship with supply chain performance. However, intra-organizational ICT moderates the effect of the supply chain integration on supply chain performance.

Research limitations/implications

– The paper argues that more research into the specific roles and interaction of ICT with business processes is needed in order to better understand its role in improving supply chain performance.

Practical implications

– For managers the findings show that inter- and intra-organizational ICT play a different role in the improvement of supply chain performance: the first leading to more supply chain integration, which in turn improves performance, while the second needs additional investment in integrative practices to help improve supply chain performance.

Originality/value

– This paper adds to the debate on the role of ICT in improving supply chain performance and shows that a detailed investigation into underlying mechanisms, and the interaction of ICT with other business processes is valuable.
Investigation of flank wear in MQL milling of ferritic stainless steel by using nano graphene reinforced vegetable cutting fluid
Authors: Uysal Alper
Published: June 2016

Purpose

In milling of stainless steel materials, various cutting tool failures such as flank wear, crater wear, cracks, chipping, etc. can be observed because of their work hardening tendency and low thermal conductivity. For this reason, this paper aims to develop some coolants and coatings to reduce these formations. However, further research should be performed to reach the desired level.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, the initial flank wear rates of uncoated and titanium nitride-coated tungsten carbide cutting tools were investigated during the milling of AISI 430 ferritic stainless steel. The milling experiments were conducted under dry and minimum quantity lubrication (MQL) conditions. Nano graphene reinforced vegetable cutting fluid was prepared and applied by the MQL system. The mixture ratios of nanofluids were selected as 1 and 2 wt.%, and MQL flow rates were adjusted at 20 and 40 ml/h.

Findings

It was observed that MQL milling with nano graphene reinforced cutting fluid has advantages over dry milling and MQL milling with pure cutting fluid in terms of the initial flank wear.

Originality/value

This paper contains new and significant information adequate to justify publication. MQL is a new method for vegetable cutting fluid containing nano graphene particles.
Sliding wear behavior of magnetron sputtered chromium carbide thin films
Authors: Beliardouh Nasser Eddine , Nouveau Corinne , Kaleli Hakan
Published: June 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this technical paper is to investigate the friction and wear behavior of inexpensive and durable cutting tools, developed for wood machining using duplex treatment.

Design/methodology/approach

Cr–(WC–Co) coatings were deposited onto carburized low-alloy steel substrate by a reactive magnetron sputtering. The total coating thickness was approximately 2 μm. Unlubricated wear tests have been performed using a disc sample sliding against an alumina ball (Al2O3) and a wood (beech) pin.

Findings

The paper provides information about the effect of duplex treatment on the surface properties of low-alloy steel against wood and offers practical help for the researchers in coating topic.

Originality/value

Experimental results showed that sliding wear properties of the selected coatings are strongly dependent on the counter-face material. When tested against alumina balls, the wear mechanisms are oxidative wear followed by a combination of adhesive and abrasive wear, while a combination of an oxidative and adhesive wear was the main wear mechanism observed against a wood pin.
Investigation of fretting wear in journal bearings
Authors: Sevik Yasar , Durak Ertugrul
Published: June 2016

Purpose

Fretting wear takes place when two contacting solid surfaces are subjected to relatively small amplitude oscillatory motion in the order of a few microns. The purpose of this paper is the design and manufacture of a fretting wear test rig that can analyze fretting wear on journal bearings.

Design/methodology/approach

This study included the manufacturing and operating principles of the test rig. In the test rig, the shaft was fixed and vibrational motion was given to the bearing housing. Vibration motion the amplitude of which could be adjusted was used on the test rig. The vibration motion was applied to a two-piece journal bearing on a fixed shaft supported from both ends.

Findings

Vibration amplitude was provided by a micro vibration engine (motor) to be under 100 μm.

Originality/value

Also, scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray and X-ray diffraction analyses of the samples were investigated.
Comparison of tribological performances of sulfur based and boron succuminide containing antiwear additive with ZDDP by engine bench tests
Authors: Özkan Doğuş , Yağci M. Barış , Birer Özgür , Kaleli Hakan
Published: June 2016

Purpose

This study aims to evaluate and compare by 100 hours engine bench tests the tribological performances of two types of lubrication oils, which were sulfur-based, boron succinimide-containing antiwear package (NP-3) oil and conventional zinc dialkyldithiophosphate (ZDDP)-containing (R-1) oil.

Design/methodology/approach

The tribological performances of the oils were evaluated in three main contexts, including engine tests, physical/chemical changes and surface analysis.

Findings

Results showed that NP-3 lubrication oil, which was environment- and catalyst-friendly, can be an alternative lubrication oil with its tribological performance due to similar antiwear characteristics with the ZDDP.

Originality/value

Attempts to develop catalysis- and environment-friendly antiwear additive packages have not presented popular or commonly used ZDDP-free products for the vehicle industry. This study presents tribological characterization of a newly developed ZDDP-free lubricating oil by engine bench tests.
Graduate student perceptions of a globally networked course
Authors: Risner Mary , Kumar Swapna
Published: June 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to examine students’ perceptions of a development course designed to increase global understanding by virtually connecting students from multiple world regions.

Design/methodology/approach

– This paper describes a graduate course that connected campuses across America, Africa, Europe, and Asia. Qualitative data about students’ perceptions of the course at one participating campus were then analyzed by course component, and synchronous and asynchronous interactions. Feedback was also solicited for suggestions to improve the course.

Findings

– The analyzed data indicate strong positive student attitudes toward connecting with global counterparts. However, these data also imply that there are various obstacles to overcome in order to meet student expectations of increased and better quality peer interaction, and to prepare faculty across all disciplines for successful design and implementation of this type of course.

Originality/value

– The use of synchronous communication to facilitate the exchange of local perspectives on issues of global significance is valuable to all disciplines, and is even more critical in the area of development where understanding local context is key. This exploratory study offers recommendations for future research on courses connecting students across borders and suggestions for course activities to increase peer engagement.
Perceptions on the effectiveness of active learning strategies
Authors: Daouk Zeina , Bahous Rima , Bacha Nahla Nola
Published: June 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to determine students’ and instructors’ perceptions regarding the effectiveness of implementing active learning strategies in higher education courses conducted at a tertiary institution in Lebanon.

Design/methodology/approach

– Pre-service education students completed a questionnaire, professors were interviewed, and class sessions were observed.

Findings

– Main findings indicate that the majority of the learners as well as the instructors favoured active learning and are strong proponents of putting into effect this approach in all their courses. These findings indicate the positive perceptions towards active learning strategies and the possible impact that these perceptions have on students’ performance and learning.

Research limitations/implications

– Three major limitations have influenced the efficiency of this study. The number of participants is rather small. Only 37 education students were involved in this study. Furthermore, an additional limitation is that all the participants were females. Yet, it is worth noting that the majority of the students, who are majoring in education at that particular university, are females. Finally, it is worth mentioning that one of the researchers conducted the non-participant observations which might have influenced the data in one way or another.

Practical implications

– Implications from the results of the study are far reaching. A major implication is for the programmes to reconsider the organization of the classrooms to have rooms that allows for cooperative and group work. Also, classroom organization should be student centred with the teacher’s place not necessarily at the front of the room but possibly at different places in the room or even sitting with the student for some of the assignments. A second implication is that the classroom is to be viewed as a learning situation where the teacher is a guide, a facilitator in the teaching/learning context which would be blended with the lecture method when needed. A further implication is that teacher professional development is a priority for the agenda of educational institutions to help promote teaching effectiveness of this clearly important active learning. After all, the students are doing the learning and the teachers need to guide them in this process.

Originality/value

– The main value of this paper is to encourage university faculty members to change their teaching methods in order to engage and motivate learners.
Student perceptions of a flipped classroom management course
Authors: Beatty Brian J , Albert Michael
Published: June 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is twofold: first, to assess student perceptions of a flipped classroom model used in an introduction to management course; and second, to determine the relationship between student perceptions and student grades.

Design/methodology/approach

– A quantitative approach was used, and a survey was created to assess student perceptions of their flipped classroom experience. Correlation analysis was used to explore the possible association between student performance (measured by test scores) and perceptions of the flipped classroom experience.

Findings

– Results indicate several significant differences in student perceptions of a flipped classroom model between successful (grades A-C) and unsuccessful (grades D-F) students.

Originality/value

– During the past several years, an active learning approach called the “flipped classroom model” has begun to be applied to higher education. Research on the effectiveness of the flipped classroom model in higher education has focussed on either grade outcomes or student perceptions, and is recent and limited. Findings can contribute to educators using a flipped classroom model, as well as to researchers investigating the impact of key factors related to student perceptions of their flipped classroom experience. Implications for applying the flipped classroom model are discussed along with implications for much-needed future research.
Effect of corporate social responsibility on nonfinancial organizational performance: evidence from Yemeni for-profit public and private enterprises
Authors: Al-Samman Eyad , Al-Nashmi Murad Mohammed
Published: June 2016

Purpose

This paper aims to explore the relationship between corporate social responsibility (CSR) and nonfinancial organizational performance (NFOP) of for-profit public and private enterprises in Yemen. It also aims to find whether there is a significant difference of the level of adopting CSR as a periodic activity between business-related public enterprises known as state-owned enterprises (SOEs) and private enterprises.

Design/methodology/approach

Empirical analyses were conducted on a sample comprising 103 for-profit public and private enterprises. Relationship between CSR and NFOP was examined using multiple regression analyses whereast-test analysis was used to find any significant difference in adopting CSR activities between SOEs and private enterprises operating in Yemen.

Findings

The four components of CSR (i.e. economic, legal, ethical and philanthropic) have positive significant relationships with NFOP when measured separately in private enterprises and in both SOEs and private enterprises as a whole entity. Conversely, there was insignificant influence of CSR on NFOP when examined separately in only SOEs. Furthermore, there was no statistically significant difference between SOEs and private enterprises concerning the level of adopting periodically CSR activities.

Research limitations/implications

Having potential personal preferences among respondents was among the major limitations of this study. Moreover, using nonfinancial measures for assessing NFOP forms another key limitation.

Practical implications

Having potential personal preferences among respondents was among the major limitations of this study. Moreover, using nonfinancial measures for assessing NFOP forms another key limitation.

Originality/value

This is one of the first papers discussing the influence of CSR on NFOP which has been given less remarkable attention in the literature compared to financial organizational performance. Moreover, the paper investigates CSR effects on NFOP in Yemen which belongs to the Third World countries.
Seaport CSR: innovation for economic, social and environmental objectives
Authors: Vanelslander Thierry
Published: June 2016

Purpose

Seaports have gained importance in recent years, but they have also featured fundamental changes. For example, societal and environmental pressures have increased. As a consequence of these pressures, corporate social responsibility has gradually been introduced also in the ports sector. One of the impacts is at the level and type of innovation. The purpose of this paper is to focus on the way that corporate social responsibility emerges among company goals in seaports and the extent to which innovation initiatives respond to the goals raised.

Design/methodology/approach

To reach its objective, the paper applies a two-step approach. Starting from scientific literature, it drafts an initial set of port-related company goals. This list is validated through a Delphi approach. In a second step, the paper applies a scoring of how port innovation initiatives respond to the raised goals. Furthermore, it determines the degree of homogeneity of both the objective scoring and the innovation scoring, and those two are then compared.

Findings

The paper derives how relevant a specific innovation action is to a specific company goal, and to which extent it actually contributes to achieving the goal. The most relevant objectives turn out to be turnover and CO2 emissions. It furthermore seems that the social objectives are best achieved. Best achievable seem the “dangerous goods” and “training”.

Practical implications

The results give insight into which socially important objectives need public support, and which initiatives are to be stimulated.

Originality/value

The results allow making an initial typology of actions and conditions that contribute to innovation “success”.
Tobacco manufacturer brand strategy following plain packaging in Australia: implications for social responsibility and policy
Authors: Greenland Steven J. , Johnson Lester , Seifi Shahla
Published: June 2016

Purpose

This paper aims to inform social responsibility and social policy by describing the brand strategy of Australia’s largest tobacco manufacturer, British American Tobacco Australia (BATA), the year following the introduction of plain packaging and other regulation. Tobacco controls are a proven catalyst for reducing smoking, but manufacturers adapt swiftly seeking to minimise the impact of regulatory change.

Design/methodology/approach

BATA’s strategy was determined using 2012-2014 tobacco ingredient reports, recommended retail price lists and a supermarket retail audit.

Findings

The research identified over 70 BATA brand variants, offered in diverse packaging options, with new products and modified names appearing since 2012. In total 14 main brands are highly differentiated by price, with 45 per cent difference between the cheapest and the most expensive. Volume discounting occurs across packaging ranges, with twin packs offering best value and prices up to 10 per cent lower than those of single packs.

Originality/value

The research originality stems from the triangulation of three different data resources to establish brand strategy following increased regulation. The study confirms ongoing market segmentation using highly differentiated ranges, and it reveals the unintended consequences of corporate responses to regulation. Evolving variant names communicate product information and imagery previously imparted by pack design. Pricing strategies enable smokers to offset substantial excise increases through brand switching and volume buying. The research, therefore, reveals the potential for regulating these as yet unrestricted elements to enhance the impact of plain packaging and other tobacco controls, thereby further reducing the social impact of smoking.
Comprehensive pyrosequencing analysis of the bacterial microbiota of the skin of patients with seborrheic dermatitis
Authors: Tanaka Akiomi , Cho Otomi , Saito Chie , Saito Mami , Tsuboi Ryoji , Sugita Takashi
Published: June 2016

Seborrheic dermatitis (SD) is a chronic inflammatory dermatologic condition in which erythema and itching develop on areas of the body with sebaceous glands, such as the scalp, face and chest. The inflammation is evoked directly by oleic acid, which is hydrolyzed from sebum by lipases secreted by skin microorganisms. Although the skin fungal genus, Malassezia, is thought to be the causative agent of SD, analysis of the bacterial microbiota of skin samples of patients with SD is necessary to clarify any association with Malassezia because the skin microbiota comprises diverse bacterial and fungal genera. In the present study, bacterial microbiotas were analyzed at non‐lesional and lesional sites of 24 patients with SD by pyrosequencing and qPCR. Principal coordinate analysis revealed clear separation between the microbiota of non‐lesional and lesional sites. Acinetobacter, Corynebacterium, Staphylococcus, Streptococcus and Propionibacterium were abundant at both sites. Propionibacterium was abundant at non‐lesional sites, whereas Acinetobacter, Staphylococcus and Streptococcus predominated at lesional sites; however, the extent of Propionibacterium colonization did not differ significantly between lesional and non‐lesional sites according to qPCR. Given that these abundant bacteria hydrolyze sebum, they may also contribute to SD development. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first comprehensive analysis of the bacterial microbiotas of the skin of SD patients.
What Drives Structural Transformation in Sub‐Saharan Africa?
Authors: Mensah Justice Tei , Adu George , Amoah Anthony , Abrokwa Kennedy Kwabena , Adu Joseph
Published: June 2016

This paper provides an empirical assessment of the driving forces behind structural transformation in sub‐Saharan Africa, and to further access the role of structural reforms in accounting for cross‐country differences in transformation. Evidence from this paper reveals that country specific fundamentals, institutions and policy reforms as well as governance and fiscal reforms are the key drivers of transformation in the region. A set of policy strategies is proposed to engender sustained transformation and development in the region.
Accounting for Gender Equality in Secondary School Enrollment in Africa
Authors: Anyanwu John C.
Published: June 2016

In addition to analyzing the characteristics of gender equality in secondary education enrollment in Africa, this paper empirically studies the key drivers of gender equality in secondary education enrollment, using cross‐sectional time series data from 1970 to 2010. Our results show that the coefficient associated with the level of real GDP per capita is positive and statistically significant in both the overall Africa sample and in the sub‐Saharan and North African samples. But the quadratic term of real GDP per capita is negative in sign and significant in the overall Africa and sub‐Saharan African estimates. These provide evidence of a hump‐shaped relationship between real GDP per capita and gender equality in secondary education enrollment in Africa. Our results also suggest that higher share of female teachers in secondary schools, increased democracy (at a decreasing rate), higher female share of the labor force, Christian dominance in a country, higher domestic investment rate, and being an oil‐exporting country increase gender equality in secondary education enrollment in the continent. However, higher population growth tends to lower it. The policy implications and lessons of these results are discussed.
The Tiebout Hypothesis in Africa: Evidence from Angola
Authors: Barros Carlos P. , Serafim Jelson
Published: June 2016

This paper analyses the Tiebout hypothesis in Angola's provinces from 2004 to 2013, using a spatial panel data model. The Tiebout hypothesis, which states that a country's internal migration is dictated by regional public policy, is tested. Angola's internal inter‐provincial migration is related to gross domestic product per capita, local public expenditure, unemployment, poverty, population density, the number of public employees in the region, and a NGO for civic education. The results reveal that spatial autocorrelation is a reality in the Angolan context, validating the adoption of a spatial model, and that regional migration is explained by the covariates. The general conclusion is that the Tiebout hypothesis is accepted in the Angolan regions, and that the most important cause of migration is regional poverty. Policy implications are derived and it is concluded that an efficient anti‐poverty policy is needed in the Angolan context at regional level in order to decrease internal migration.
Determinants of Bribery: Theory and Evidence from Sub‐Saharan Africa
Authors: Pelizzo Riccardo , Araral Eduardo , Pak Anton , Xun Wu
Published: June 2016

The paper investigates the determinants of bribery in sub‐Saharan Africa by using probit models and data from the World Bank's Enterprise Survey of 10,457 firms in 30 countries in sub‐Saharan Africa from 2009 to 2013. By doing so we find that securing a government contract is the most significant motivation for bribery and that overall, the propensity to bribe depends on the size of the firm as well as the predictability of the regulatory environment. Our findings have similarities and differences compared to Asian firms. The paper also highlights that the incidence and the determinants of bribery vary across the four sub‐regions. On the basis of this evidence we suggest that when it comes to anti‐corruption strategies, one size does not fit all and that country‐specific and region‐specific strategies should be adopted to address context‐specific needs and conditions.
Curriculum Mapping: A Method to Assess and Refine Undergraduate Degree Programs
Authors: Joyner (Melito) Helen S.
Published: June 2016

Over the past several decades, there has been increasing interest in program‐ and university‐level assessment and aligning learning outcomes to program content. Curriculum mapping is a tool that creates a visual map of all courses in the curriculum and how they relate to curriculum learning outcomes. Assessment tools/activities are often included in the curriculum map. The School of Food Science, a joint program between the Washington State Univ. and the Univ. of Idaho, recently completed a curriculum mapping and assessment exercise. The goal of this exercise was to determine the alignment of the undergraduate curriculum with program learning outcomes and the degree of student mastery of these outcomes. Curriculum learning outcomes were revised from existing learning outcomes to better align with university learning outcomes and the IFT Core Competencies. All undergraduate courses were mapped to the IFT Core Competencies, and several competencies were assessed to determine student mastery. The mapping and assessment activities revealed potential gaps and redundancies in course content, as well as student ability to meet standards for competency. The results of the mapping and assessment exercises will be used to refine the content delivered to undergraduate students in the School of Food Science, with the overall goal of increasing the quality of the education provided to these students and helping them to be more prepared for a successful career in food science.
Estimated portion size versus actual intake of eight commonly consumed foods by healthy adults
Authors: Nguyen Alexander , Chern Christine , Tan Sze‐Yen
Published: June 2016

Aim

This study aimed to examine the accuracy of the estimated portion size (EPS) of foods required to reach satiation, and how food characteristics influence food portion estimation in healthy adults.

Methods

This was a randomised, cross‐over feeding trial with eight test sessions. The visual, olfactory and rheological characteristics of common foods were manipulated. Participants determined the portion sizes of eight test foods that need to be consumed to reach satiation, which were then compared with the actual intake (AI) of the same foods. During each session, participants also rated their appetite before and after food consumption, as well as the palatability and acceptability of the test foods.

Results

Thirty‐five healthy young adults completed the study. The EPSs were not significantly different from AI of test foods, although there was a tendency to overestimate the amount required to reach satiation. AI of test foods correlated with energy density but not food palatability or acceptance. Hunger and desire‐to‐eat reduced, and fullness increased significantly after test food ingestion. Significant differences were found in hunger (P = 0.041) and desire‐to‐eat (P = 0.007) suppression between test foods. Apple juice suppressed desire‐to‐eat less than solid apple, albeit ingestion of these foods were isoenergetic. Food forms were used to guide portion selection of apple and apple juice.

Conclusion

Although the mean predicted portion was not different from AI, individual discrepancies were large, and a tendency to over‐portion foods may pose a challenge in body weight maintenance.
Implications of caesarean section for children's school achievement: A population‐based study
Authors: Smithers Lisa G. , Mol Ben W. , Wilkinson Chris , Lynch John W.
Published: June 2016

Background

Caesarean birth is one of the most frequently performed major obstetrical interventions. Although there is speculation that caesarean at term may have consequences for children's later health and development, longer‐term studies are needed.

Aim

We aimed to evaluate risks to poor school achievement among children born by caesarean section compared with spontaneous vaginal birth.

Materials and Methods

This population‐based observational study involved linkage of routinely collected perinatal data with children's school assessments. Perinatal data included all children born in South Australia from 1999 to 2005. Participants were children born by elective caesarean (exposed, n = 650) or vaginal birth (unexposed, n = 2959), to women who previously had a caesarean delivery. School assessments were reported via a standardised national assessment program for children attending grade three (at ~eight years of age). Assessments included reading, writing, spelling, grammar and numeracy and were categorised according to performing at above or ≤National Minimum Standards (NMS). Statistical analyses involved augmented inverse probability weighting (apiw) and accounted for a range of maternal, perinatal and sociodemographic characteristics.

Results

Children performing ≤NMS for vaginal birth versus caesarean section were as follows: reading 144/640 (23%) and 688/2921 (24%), writing 69/636(11%) and 351/2917 (12%), spelling 128/646 (20%) and 684/2937 (23%), grammar 132/646 (20%) and 655/2937 (22%), and numeracy 151/634 (24%) and 729/2922 (25%). Both the raw data and the aipw analyses suggested little differences in school achievement between children born by caesarean versus vaginal birth.

Conclusion

Analyses that carefully controlled for a wide range of confounders suggest that caesarean section does not increase the risk of poor school outcomes at age eight.
Reconstruction of limited parotidectomy defects using the dermofat graft
Authors: Pham My , Eviston Timothy J. , Clark Jonathan R.
Published: June 2016

Background

Removal of part or all of the parotid gland may leave a visible contour defect and may also be associated with complications such as Frey's syndrome. These aesthetic and functional issues can be addressed using dermofat graft reconstruction. The aim of this study is to assess patient satisfaction and complications associated with using the dermofat graft for contour restoration in patients undergoing parotidectomy.

Methods

Twenty‐four patients who underwent parotidectomy and dermofat graft reconstruction between 2011 and 2015 completed a patient‐reported outcomes instrument. Patient files and operative notes were also reviewed for all complications.

Results

No major complications were reported. Two patients had parotid wound complications including minor dehiscence and sialocoele. Two patients had donor site wound complications including haematoma and groin seroma. No cases of Frey's syndrome were recorded. Patient's rating of cosmesis and overall health and quality of life were excellent at 1–42 months follow‐up. The main symptom‐specific issues patients reported were xerostomia and altered sensation in the distribution of the great auricular nerve.

Conclusion

Dermofat graft is associated with high rates of patient satisfaction and a low incidence of complications.
Surgery for parathyroid microadenomas: patient characteristics, localization success and operative cures
Authors: Suter Katherine J. L. , Johnson William , Yeung Meei , Serpell Jonathan , Lee James C. , Grodski Simon
Published: June 2016

Background

In recent years, patients with primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT) are being diagnosed earlier, with milder elevations in parathyroid hormone (PTH) and serum calcium. We aimed to investigate whether adenoma size reflects biochemical severity of presentation and influences localization of pre‐operative scans.

Methods

A total of 630 consecutive patients undergoing parathyroidectomy for PHPT were recruited into either the microadenoma (≤200 mg) or macroadenoma (>200 mg) group. Pre‐operative serum calcium, PTH, rates of minimally invasive parathyroidectomy and bilateral neck exploration, localization of adenomas with pre‐operative ultrasound and sestamibi (MIBI) scans, cure rates and other demographic parameters were compared. The data were analysed using Student's t‐test, Chi‐squared test, linear and multiple regression analyses.

Results

Patients in the microadenoma group had significantly lower pre‐operative serum calcium (P < 0.001) and PTH (P < 0.001), less accurate MIBI (P < 0.001) and ultrasound (P < 0.001), lower cure rates (P = 0.04) and were more likely to undergo bilateral neck exploration (P = 0.001). However, multivariate analysis revealed that microadenomas are most strongly associated with the findings of less accurate MIBI (P = 0.03) and lower pre‐operative calcium (P = 0.04).

Conclusion

In conclusion, smaller adenomas are strongly associated with biochemically milder PHPT and less accurate localization studies. Therefore, microadenomas continue to present as a challenge in both diagnosis and management.
Absence of accelerations during labor is of little value in interpreting fetal heart rate patterns
Authors: Holzmann Malin , Wretler Stina , Nordström Lennart
Published: June 2016

Introduction

The aim of this study was to investigate the correlation between increasing time since fetal heart rate (FHR) accelerations, positive (no acceleration) stimulation tests and fetal acidemia.

Material and methods

Observational study of FHR recordings from 1070 laboring women with indication for fetal scalp blood sampling (FBS). FHR traces were scrutinized regarding acceleration at FBS and duration since most recent acceleration. The appraiser was blinded to the FBS result.

Results

At the first sampling, 8.8% of fetuses had lactate concentration >4.8 mmol/L. There were no differences between those with recent accelerations (≤60 min), and absent accelerations (>60 min or never) prior to FBS (8.3% vs. 8.9%, p = 0.71). Corresponding analyses for subgroups were: fetuses with isolated absence of accelerations, 3.7% vs. 1.5% (p = 0.41), fetuses without decelerations (i.e. reduced variability and/or tachycardia), 6.1% vs. 5.1% (p = 0.81) and fetuses with serious decelerations (i.e. late or complicated variable), 15.0% vs. 16.1% (p = 0.87). Among fetuses with serious decelerations, increasing duration from most recent acceleration had a weak but statistically significant correlation to increased lactate concentration (rs = 0.12, p = 0.03). The positive likelihood ratio for acidemia with no response at FBS was 1.15.

Conclusion

In a population with FBS performed upon indication, there was no correlation between duration since last FHR acceleration and increased lactate concentration. The majority of fetuses are not acidemic even when the FHR trace is pathological and stimulation tests are only helpful when accelerations are provoked.
Review article: novel therapies for hepatitis B virus cure – advances and perspectives
Authors: Lin C.‐L. , Kao J.‐H.
Published: June 2016

Background

Current anti‐viral therapies, interferon and nucleos(t)ide analogues, have been proven to reduce the progression of chronic hepatitis B (CHB). However, covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA) of hepatitis B virus (HBV) persists, resulting in viral relapse after the discontinuation of treatment.

Aim

To discuss and review novel therapies for chronic hepatitis B infection.

Methods

Recent published studies which searched from PubMed were comprehensive reviewed. The key words include chronic hepatitis B, hepatitis B virus cure, covalently closed circular DNA, direct acting anti‐virals and host targeting agents.

Results

Several novel agents through viral and host targets approaches are under investigations towards functional cure of HBV. On the one hand, direct acting anti‐virals targeting virus itself, such as HBV new polymerase inhibitor, entry inhibitor, engineered site‐specific nucleases and RNA interference, could inhibit amplification of cccDNA as well as intrahepatic HBV infection and eliminate or silence cccDNA transcription. Inhibitors of HBV nucleocapsid assembly suppress capsid formation and prevent synthesis of HBV DNA. On the other hand, host targeting agents (HTA) include lymphotoxin‐β receptor agonist, toll‐like receptor agonist, immune checkpoint inhibitors and adenovirus‐based therapeutic vaccine. Through enhancing innate and adaptive immune responses, these agents could induce noncytolytic destruction of cccDNA or attack HBV‐infected hepatocytes.

Conclusion

With these promising approaches, we hope to reach global hepatitis B virus control in the middle of this century.
A multifaceted view on the impacts of shrub encroachment
Authors: Maestre Fernando T. , Eldridge David J. , Soliveres Santiago
Published: June 2016

Shrub encroachment, a global phenomenon with management implications, is examined in two papers in the current issue of Applied Vegetation Science. Barbosa da Silva et al. show that encroachment simplifies the herbaceous community, and Pittarello et al. illustrate how pastoral practices can restore encroached grasslands. While detrimental effects of shrub encroachment on grassland vegetation are often reported, we argue for a more holistic view when assessing this land‐cover change.
Multicentre study for validation of the French addictovigilance network reports assessment tool
Authors: Victorri‐Vigneau Caroline , Hardouin Jean Benoit , Rousselet Morgane , Gerardin Marie , Guerlais Marylène , Guillou Morgane , Bronnec Marie , Sébille Véronique , Jolliet Pascale ,   the French Addictovigilance Network
Published: June 2016

Aims

The French health authority (ANSM) is responsible for monitoring medicinal and other drug dependencies. To support these activities, the ANSM manages a network of 13 drug dependence evaluation and information centres (Centres d'Evaluation et d'Information sur la Pharmacodépendance ‐ Addictovigilance ‐ CEIP‐A) throughout France. In 2006, the Nantes CEIP‐A created a new tool called the EGAP (Echelle de GrAvité de la Pharmacodépendance‐ drug dependence severity scale) based on DSM IV criteria. This tool allows the creation of a substance use profile that enables the drug dependence severity to be homogeneously quantified by assigning a score to each substance indicated in the reports from health professionals. This article describes the validation and psychometric properties of the drug dependence severity score obtained from the scale ( Clinicaltrials.gov NCT01052675).

Method

The validity of the EGAP construct, the concurrent validity and the discriminative ability of the EGAP score, the consistency of answers to EGAP items, the internal consistency and inter rater reliability of the EGAP score were assessed using statistical methods that are generally used for psychometric tests.

Results

The total EGAP score was a reliable and precise measure for evaluating drug dependence (Cronbach alpha = 0.84; ASI correlation = 0.70; global ICC = 0.92). In addition to its good psychometric properties, the EGAP is a simple and efficient tool that can be easily specified on the official ANSM notification form.

Conclusion

The good psychometric properties of the total EGAP score justify its use for evaluating the severity of drug dependence.
Long‐term durable remission by cladribine followed by rituximab in patients with hairy cell leukaemia: update of a phase II trial
Authors: Chihara Dai , Kantarjian Hagop , O'Brien Susan , Jorgensen Jeffrey , Pierce Sherry , Faderl Stefan , Ferrajoli Alessandra , Poku Rebecca , Jain Preetesh , Thompson Phillip , Brandt Mark , Luthra Rajyalakshmi , Burger Jan , Keating Michael , Ravandi Farhad
Published: June 2016

Nucleoside analogues are highly active in patients with hairy cell leukaemia (HCL); however, patients continue to relapse. This phase II study evaluated the efficacy and safety of cladribine followed by rituximab in patients with untreated HCL (N = 59), relapsed HCL (N = 14) and HCL variant (HCLv, N = 7). Cladribine 5·6 mg/m2 was given intravenously (IV) daily for 5 d and was followed approximately 1 month later with rituximab 375 mg/m2 IV weekly for 8 weeks. Complete response rate in patients with untreated HCL, relapsed HCL and HCLv was 100%, 100% and 86%, respectively. With a median follow up of 60 months, 5‐year failure‐free survival (FFS) in patients with untreated HCL, relapsed HCL and HCLv was 95%, 100% and 64%, respectively. Median duration of response to the cladribine followed by rituximab was significantly longer than the first‐line cladribine single agent in patients who received this treatment as second‐line treatment (72 months vs not reached, P = 0·004). Almost all patients (94%) achieved negative minimal residual disease (MRD) after the treatment. Positive MRD during the follow up did not necessarily result in clinically relevant relapse. Cladribine followed by rituximab is highly effective even in patients with relapsed disease and HCLv, and can achieve durable remission.
How I manage patients with grey zone lymphoma
Authors: Kritharis Athena , Pilichowska Monika , Evens Andrew M.
Published: June 2016

Since grey zone lymphoma (GZL) was originally included in the 2008 World Health Organization classification as a B‐cell lymphoma unclassifiable with features intermediate between diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBCL) and classical Hodgkin lymphoma (cHL), new biological and clinical knowledge have been learned. It is important to highlight that diagnosis of this entity is complex and involvement by haematopathologists with expertise in this disease is recommended. It is recognized now that patients with GZL may present clinically with primary mediastinal localization or systemic disease without mediastinal involvement. Regardless of clinical presentation, patients with GZL have relatively high relapse rates, especially compared with primary mediastinal DLBCL or cHL. Interestingly, relapsed/refractory GZL patients appear to be salvaged fairly successfully, especially with haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). Off of a clinical trial, we recommend R‐CHOP (rituximab, cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, oncovin, prednisolone) or dose‐adjusted EPOCH‐R (etoposide, prednisolone, oncovin, cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, rituximab) for frontline treatment of GZL. Additionally, we advocate use of consolidative radiotherapy for localized and/or bulky disease. For patients with relapsed/refractory GZL, salvage chemotherapy followed by consolidative autologous HSCT should be considered. Finally, continued biological and pathologic examination of this unique disease entity is warranted as well as exploration towards the integration of targeted therapeutic agents (e.g., brentuximab vedotin, programmed cell death 1inhibitors, B‐cell receptor inhibitors, proteasome inhibitors, etc.) into the treatment paradigm of GZL.
IMMIGRANT RELATIVE WAGES AT THE GREAT RECESSION: EVIDENCE WITH MATCHED EMPLOYER‐EMPLOYEE DATA FOR SPAIN
Authors: Murillo‐Huertas Inés P. , Simón Hipólito
Published: June 2016

The article examines relative wages of immigrants in Spain, with a particular focus on the impact of the Great Recession. The empirical analysis is restricted to men and is based on matched employer‐employee microdata and the decomposition techniques of Juhn et al. (1991, 1993) and Fortin et al. (2011). Our results show that the significant native‐immigrant wage gap that exists both in terms of average wages and of differentials along the wage distribution is essentially explained by differences in the endowments of observed characteristics so that, in general, immigrants tend to receive a similar wage treatment than Spaniards with analogous observed attributes. On the other hand, the Great Recession has had a noticeable impact on the relative wages of immigrants, given that the significant increase of the native‐immigrant wage gap observed during the previous expansionary period was mitigated during the economic downturn due to composition effects arising from the severe employment destruction pattern.
Semantic Structure in Vocabulary Knowledge Interacts With Lexical and Sentence Processing in Infancy
Authors: Borovsky Arielle , Ellis Erica M. , Evans Julia L. , Elman Jeffrey L.
Published: June 2016

Although the size of a child's vocabulary associates with language‐processing skills, little is understood regarding how this relation emerges. This investigation asks whether and how the structure of vocabulary knowledge affects language processing in English‐learning 24‐month‐old children (N = 32; 18 F, 14 M). Parental vocabulary report was used to calculate semantic density in several early‐acquired semantic categories. Performance on two language‐processing tasks (lexical recognition and sentence processing) was compared as a function of semantic density. In both tasks, real‐time comprehension was facilitated for higher density items, whereas lower density items experienced more interference. The findings indicate that language‐processing skills develop heterogeneously and are influenced by the semantic network surrounding a known word.
EMG correlations of edentulous patients with implant overdentures and fixed dental prostheses compared to conventional complete dentures and dentates: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: von der Gracht Ina , Derks Andreas , Haselhuhn Klaus , Wolfart Stefan
Published: June 2016

Objectives

The goal of this meta‐analysis was to evaluate how muscular activity, measured by electromyography (EMG), differs among edentulous patients treated with a complete denture (CD), removable implant overdentures (IO), implant‐retained fixed dental prostheses (IFDP), and dentates. The differences during clenching and chewing were of particular interest.

Materials and Methods

An electronic literature review was carried out on MEDLINE (Pubmed) and the Cochrane Library covering the period January 1980 through September 2013. This was accomplished independently by three different reviewers and supplemented by a manual search. The review included randomized controlled trials, controlled clinical trials, and clinical trials which evaluated surface electromyography, bite force, chewing, and implants or complete dentures. In addition, the research was adjusted using MeSH terms.

Results

The search garnered 646 titles and abstracts. Sixteen articles which met the inclusion criteria were analyzed. The effect size for muscular activity after implant support increased after therapy during clenching 2.18 (95% CI: 1.14, 3.23) and during chewing 1.45 (95%CI: 1.21, 1.69). Moreover, the EMG data of IO and IFDP groups (pooled) were lower than that of dentate control subjects during clenching (effect size: −1.01 [95%CI: −1.37, −0.65]). In contrast, the IFDP‐wearers showed higher values than dentates during chewing. Among the edentulous control patients, the IO and IFDP groups (pooled) displayed higher values during clenching (effect size: 1.12 [95%CI: 0.7, 1.55]) and chewing (effect size: 1.33 [95%CI: −0.57, 2.10]). Furthermore, the muscular activity during chewing correlated with the hardness of the food.

Conclusion

In general, edentulous patients with CDs can achieve a greater degree of muscular activity after rehabilitation with IOs during clenching and chewing. During clenching, patients with IFDPs achieved higher values than those with dentates. The muscular activity increases with the hardness of the food.