bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A recipe for big data value creation
Authors: Ylijoki Ossi , Porras Jari
Published: November 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present a process-theory-based model of big data value creation in a business context. The authors approach the topic from the viewpoint of a single firm.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors reflect current big data literature in two widely used value creation frameworks and arrange the results according to a process theory perspective.

Findings

The model, consisting of four probabilistic processes, provides a “recipe” for converting big data investments into firm performance. The provided recipe helps practitioners to understand the ingredients and complexities that may promote or demote the performance impact of big data in a business context.

Practical implications

The model acts as a framework which helps to understand the necessary conditions and their relationships in the conversion process. This helps to focus on success factors which promote positive performance.

Originality/value

Using well-established frameworks and process components, the authors synthetize big data value creation-related papers into a holistic model which explains how big data investments translate into economic performance, and why the conversion sometimes fails. While the authors rely on existing theories and frameworks, the authors claim that the arrangement and application of the elements to the big data context is novel.
Smart VRP-NLMS algorithm for estimation of power system frequency
Authors: Aali Seyed Reza , Besmi Mohammad Reza , Kazemi Mohammad Hosein
Published: November 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to study variation regularization with a positive sequence extraction-normalized least mean square (VRP-NLMS) algorithm for frequency estimation in a three-phase electrical distribution system. A simulation test is provided to validate the performance and convergence rate of the proposed estimation algorithm.

Design/methodology/approach

Least mean square (LMS) algorithms for frequency estimation encounter problems when voltage contains unbalance, sags and harmonic distortion. The convergence rate of the LMS algorithm is sensitive to the adjustment of the step-size parameter used in the update equation. This paper proposes VRP-NLMS algorithm for frequency estimation in a power system. Regularization parameter is variable in the NLMS algorithm to adjust step-size parameter. Delayed signal cancellation (DSC) operator suppresses harmonics and negative sequence component of the voltage vector in a two-phase Î ± Î² plane. The DSC part is placed in front of the NLMS algorithm as a pre-filter and a positive sequence of the grid voltage is extracted.

Findings

By adapting of the step-size parameter, speed and accuracy of the LMS algorithm are improved. The DSC operator is augmented to the NLMS algorithm for more improvement of the performance of this adaptive filter. Simulation results validate that the proposed VRP-NLMS algorithm has a less misalignment of performance with more convergence rate.

Originality/value

This paper is a theoretical support to simulated system performance.
Havells India Ltd: QRG foundation on the cross road
Authors: Shrivastava Archana , Sharma Nagendra Nath , Sharma Nitika
Published: November 2018

Learning outcomes

The case will help students to understand the challenges faced by the organisations with respect to implementing social reforms; develop an understanding in creating sustainable solutions to the social problems; identify leadership challenges faced by such enterprises; and understand grassroots challenges of establishing such enterprises in India.

Case overview

The case deals with the dilemma and challenges of Col. Nirban Singh, in-charge of Midday meal of QRG Foundation at Alwar. The foundation was based on the vision of creating a positive impact in communities through social service. They follow a socially positive agenda and work consistently to contribute to the betterment of the society and its future. Their initiatives revolve around their concerns for the nutrition, health and education of children. It was decided that out of the three programmes on environment, sanitation and the mid-day meal (MDM) for school going children, the later will be the flagship CSR activity of Havells. The programme began with coverage of 1,500 students in 2005. In 2015, ten years since inception, the Havells MDM scheme catered to over 58,000 students from 688 schools every day in the Alwar region of Rajasthan. Till February 2017, Havells has served over 66 million meals to students and impacted lives of millions of Children (Source: Havells). The case illustrates innovative model of automation in food preparation and cooking operations adopted by the company with minimum human intervention, to maintain hygiene and thereby with the help of special vans owned by the company quickly distribute freshly cooked food to schools at lunch time. The case highlights the purpose behind this initiative, challenges that company face in day-to-day activities and the impact of this initiative on the children in Alwar district at Rajasthan. QRG is at the crossroad: Col. Nirban must identify the way forward without compromising on the quality of the services provided. His available options are replicate the programme in the new state, upscale their services in Rajasthan and focus on the existing project and work on the ways to make it sustainable.

Complexity academic level

The case can be used in both undergraduate and graduate levels in entrepreneurship, management and leadership classes to discuss corporate social responsibility, social entrepreneurship, NGO and responsible business. The case provides practical challenges faced by the social enterprises/NGOs in running the programme, implementing the policies on the ground, replicating and sustaining it. The case can be used in strategy, innovation and ethic classes.

Supplementary materials

Teaching Notes are available for educators only. Please contact your library to gain login details or email support@emeraldinsight.com to request teaching notes.

Subject code

Management science.
Awareness of occupational hazards in learning organizations
Authors: Rahman Muhammad Sabbir , Mannan Mahafuz , Hossain Md. Afnan , Gani AAhad M. Osman
Published: November 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this research is to investigate the significant antecedents that influence students’ awareness of occupational hazards (AOHs) in their respective institutions. The researchers proposed a theoretical model consisting of three dimensions: knowledge sharing behavior (KSB), sense of spirituality (SS) and awareness of occupational hazards (AOHs).

Design/methodology/approach

This study targets students of different public and private higher learning institutions in Bangladesh with a total of 260 respondents, utilizing a survey questionnaire as the data collection instrument to test the proposed conceptual model. The structural equation modeling approach was used to test the proposed model.

Findings

The results show that SS has a mediating effect on KSB and AOHs at higher learning institutions.

Originality/value

The study contributes for first time to the theoretical novelty of the body of the existing literature in the domains of students’ KSB, SS and AOHs. The study also provides insight on future research directions by helping in identifying gaps in literature in this field and higher learning institutions in Bangladesh.
Lattice Boltzmann simulation of 3D natural convection in a cuboid filled with KKL-model predicted nanofluid using Dual-MRT model
Authors: Rahimi Alireza , Kasaeipoor Abbas , Hasani Malekshah Emad , Rashidi Mohammad Mehdi , Purusothaman Abimanyu
Published: November 2018

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the three-dimensional natural convection and entropy generation in a cuboid enclosure filled with CuO-water nanofluid.

Design/methodology/approach

The lattice Boltzmann method is used to solve the problem numerically. Two different multiple relaxation time (MRT) models are used to solve the problem. The D3Q7–MRT model is used to solve the temperature field, and the D3Q19 is used to solve the fluid flow of natural convection within the enclosure.

Findings

The influences of different Rayleigh numbers (103 < Ra < 106) and solid volume fractions (0 < f < 0.04) on the fluid flow, heat transfer, total entropy generation, local heat transfer irreversibility and local fluid friction irreversibility are presented comprehensively. To predict thermo–physical properties, dynamic viscosity and thermal conductivity, of CuO–water nanofluid, the Koo–Kleinstreuer–Li (KKL) model is applied to consider the effect of Brownian motion on nanofluid properties.

Originality/value

The originality of this work is to analyze the three-dimensional natural convection and entropy generation using a new numerical approach of dual-MRT-based lattice Boltzmann method.
Service failure and recovery in technology-based business networks
Authors: Reis João , Amorim Marlene , Melão Nuno
Published: November 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate how service providers are using their channels to support the handling of customer complaints in a technology-based business network (Tb2N) environment. It aims to discuss the implications from existing misalignments between the service delivery debilities and the complexity of the Tb2N recovery process.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used an exploratory case study research conducted in a Portuguese private bank. Data collection involved multiple sources for corroboration purposes, such as reports from customer complaints, semi-structured interviews, direct observation and official documents. Data were analysed to identify paths and relationships between constructs, to reduce data, to enable interpretation and to achieve valid and reliable results.

Findings

The case analysis revealed four types of Tb2N debilities: weaknesses in what concerns the channel migration to new technologies, automated physical and virtual barriers in accessing the firms’ common channel, non-automated barriers concerning the cross-training of employees and, finally, barriers concerning the service operations management.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first attempt to characterize the service failure and recovery in a Tb2N context. Complaint management is an essential tool for managers, as failures in service delivery are inevitable and the recovery of such encounters encompasses significant challenges. For academics, this is the first effort to discuss a growing topic in the operations management literature. Further investigation is needed, and with this contribution, the authors expect to stimulate other researchers to provide their contribution.
Validation of organizational innovation as a creative learning process
Authors: Kumar Nishant , Yakhlef Ali , Nordin Fredrik
Published: November 2018

Purpose

Previous studies on innovation tend to view innovation as consisting of a creative phase of novel and useful ideas, and a non-creative, or at least a less creative phase, as this considered to be the mere implementation and validation of the initially created ideas. In contrast, this paper aims to stress on the significance of the process of validating a new idea as being a creative, learning, exploratory process that shapes the degree of novelty of the innovation as a whole.

Design/methodology/approach

In driving this argument, this study deductively builds on a theoretical pre-understanding derived from extant literature related to management innovation and organizational legitimacy, and inductively draws on information gleaned from three in-depth case studies.

Findings

The study shows that the validation phase in the innovation process is a creative process, rather than just being a set of activities that relate to the mere execution of the created ideas. Viewing the validation process as an exploratory search for new knowledge, this study establishes a relationship between the form of knowledge mobilized, vertically within an organization or horizontally from outside, and the form of legitimation required. Validation based on internally generated knowledge is effective in terms of achieving pragmatic (efficiency-driven) objectives. Inter-organizational knowledge inflows are associated with cognitive legitimacy – a form of legitimacy that leads to changes in the stakeholders’ beliefs about a the product. In contradistinction, horizontal, socio–cultural inflows of knowledge are likely to improve on the product itself, thereby generating more traction for validation.

Research limitations/implications

This research is based on data collected from three firms only.

Practical implications

The idea developed here can provide business organizations a better understanding of the validation process of management innovations. This study suggests that successful innovation often requires managers to be prepared to seek knowledge beyond the confines of their own organizations.

Originality/value

This study contributes in three ways: it submits that there is a dynamic interplay between the moments of creation and validation, which is largely shaped by the novelty of the mobilized knowledge, depending on whether it is internal top–down or external horizontal; relatedly, the effectiveness of validation is shaped by the novelty of the knowledge garnered to justify the initial ideas; and the present paper has extended Suchman’s (1995) framework by linking the effectiveness of the various forms of legitimacy to the source of knowledge mobilized in the validation process.
The dark side of technology: examining the impact of technology overload on salespeople
Authors: Delpechitre Duleep , Black Hulda G. , Farrish John
Published: November 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine how technology overload (system feature, information, and communication overload) influences salespeople’s role stress (role conflict and role ambiguity), effort to use technology and performance. This research examines whether these relationships are linear or quadratic. It also examines the moderating effect of salespeople’s technology self-efficacy.

Design/methodology/approach

Salespeople at a national company providing services to small and medium companies were surveyed via an online instrument to measure key constructs and control variables. Over 200 usable responses resulted; structural equation model was used to analyze the data.

Findings

Results show that dimensions of technology overload had linear and/or quadratic relationships with role stress, effort to use technology and performance. Salesperson’s technology self-efficacy moderated the relationship between technology overload, effort to use the technology and performance.

Practical implications

The benefits from new technology are not always linear. Managers should regulate the timing of technology improvements, as well as the availability of information, communication and system features, to reduce role stress and enhance efforts to use technologies.

Originality/value

Drawing on the job demand and resource model, this research demonstrates that technology used as a job resource will aid the salesperson and company; however, when technology overload exists, it becomes a job demand with the potential to enhance role stress and decrease salesperson performance.
Reforming accounting to support the shift towards a sustainable financial system
Authors: Chabrak Nihel
Published: November 2018

Purpose

Considering the growing importance of finance in shaping corporate and human activities, the purpose of this paper is to focus on the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) Inquiry into the Design of a Sustainable Financial System that aims to align the financial system with sustainable development, with a focus on environmental aspects. Following the inquiry call for better disclosure approaches of material information on the “sustainability impacts” of the financial system as one of the areas of improvement to move toward a sustainable financial system, the author argues for a reform of the accounting model to better reflect the compliance of businesses with “quality of growth” imperatives.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper rests on the entity theory of Littleton (1934).

Findings

The new accounting model requires creating a new equity capital account for the entity that is separate from the shareholders equity account. Valuation as well as other related issues on the functioning of this account is briefly explored in the paper. The reform also requires entrusting the responsibility of answering questions related to valuation, capital maintenance and income distribution to the board of directors that should be composed of representatives of the different capitals which have accrued, temporarily or indefinitely, to the business firm.

Research limitations/implications

This paper calls researchers to explore the theoretical avenues proposed in the paper to develop the model in practice.

Practical implications

The implementation of this reform requires a regulatory reform and the redesign of the economic coordination mechanisms which could be challenging in practice.

Social implications

The accounting model proposed in the paper contributes to a new quality of growth, which is a growth based on well-being and inclusiveness.

Originality/value

The paper draws on the UNEP framework, which has not been investigated in other research studies.
Bank risk and performance in an emerging market setting: the case of Bangladesh
Authors: Majumder Md. Tofael Hossain , Li Xiaojing
Published: November 2018

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the impacts of bank capital requirements on the performance and risk of the emerging economy, i.e. Bangladeshi banking sector.

Design/methodology/approach

The study applies an unbalanced panel data which comprises 30 banks yielding a total of 413 bank-year observations over the period 2000 to 2015.

Findings

Using generalized methods of moments, the empirical results of this research reveal that bank capital is positively and significantly impressive on bank performance, whereas negatively and significantly impact on risk. The study also finds the inverse relationship between risk and performance in both the performance and risk equations. The results also indicate that there is a persistence of performance and risk from one year to the next year.

Originality/value

This is the unique investigation on Bangladeshi bank industry that considers the simultaneous effect of bank capital requirements on risk and performance. Therefore, it is predicted that the empirical evidence of this research shows policy implications to the regulatory authority of Bangladeshi banking industry to determine relevant policies.
Always available – the role of perceived advantages and legitimacy
Authors: Dettmers Jan , Biemelt Jana
Published: November 2018

Purpose

Studies have shown that availability for work during non-work hours can impair well-being. However, there are significant inter-individual differences regarding these effects. Referring to the “effort–reward–imbalance” model and the “stress-as-offense-to-self” model, the purpose of this paper is to investigate the role that perceived advantages as well as the illegitimacy of extended availability plays in explaining the inter-individual differences.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 310 participants completed an online questionnaire that measured extended availability, illegitimacy of extended availability, advantages of availability and two strain indicators. The authors conducted regression analyses to analyze the effects of extended availability on strain and the moderating role of perceived illegitimacy and advantages of extended availability.

Findings

Extended availability and – beyond this effect – perceived illegitimacy of extended availability were positively correlated with strain, whereas perceived advantages showed the opposite effect. Furthermore, perceived advantages had a moderating effect in that high advantages buffered the detrimental effects of extended availability.

Research limitations/implications

The results are based on cross-sectional data. However, the findings confirm previous research indicating that the detrimental effects of extended availability are dependent on specific boundary conditions. In this study, the authors provided evidence for the moderating effect of perceived advantages regarding extended availability.

Practical implications

The results provided indications to designing availability in a risk-reducing way by accounting for boundary conditions that may increase or decrease the detrimental effects.

Originality/value

By focusing on perceived illegitimacy and flexibility advantages as boundary conditions for the effects of extended availability, the study introduces two established concepts into the research on increasingly flexible work–home boundaries.
Cognitive risk culture and advanced roles of actors in risk governance: a case study
Authors: Agarwal Ruchi , Kallapur Sanjay
Published: November 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to explore the best practices for improving risk culture and defining the role of actors in risk governance.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper presents an exemplar case of a British insurance company by using a qualitative case research approach.

Findings

The case study shows how the company was successful in changing from a compliance-based and defensive risk culture to a cognitive risk culture by using a systems thinking approach. Cognitive risk culture ensures that everybody understands risks and their own roles in risk governance. The change was accomplished by adding an operational layer between the first and second lines of defense and developing tools to better communicate risks throughout the organization.

Practical implications

Practitioners can potentially improve risk governance by using the company’s approach. The UK regulator’s initiative to improve risk culture can potentially be followed by other regulators.

Originality/value

This is among the few studies that describe actual examples of how a company can improve risk culture using the systems approach and how systems thinking simultaneously resolves several other issues such as poor risk reporting and lack of clarity in roles and responsibilities.
Counterfactual theory as an under-utilised analytical framework for studying precarious work experiences
Authors: Manolchev Constantine , Teigen Karl
Published: November 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore experiences and attitudes associated with “precarious work”, an umbrella term for insecure, casual, flexible, contingency, non-standard and zero-hour types of employment.

Design/methodology/approach

The investigation was carried-out through two studies. The “outside-in” view was represented by business undergraduates (n=56), responding to a four-item questionnaire on precarious work. It was contrasted with the “inside-out” perspective of migrant, care and hospitality workers (n=72) expressed in 48 in-depth interviews, and four focus groups.

Findings

Participant narratives included counterfactual comparisons that were more often of a downward (“it could have been worse”) than of an upward (“not as good as it could have been”) kind. Precarious participants spontaneously remarked that they were “lucky” (rather than “unlucky”) to be in precarious work.

Research limitations/implications

Precarious work is likely to give rise to insecurity, uncertainty and vulnerability. However, this study distinguishes between the perspectives of “outside-in” observers, and “inside-out” participants. The former view was aligned with the standard view of work social scientists, yet the latter ran counter to both. Interestingly, the narratives of participants were compatible with the self-evaluations of people exposed to other hardships (like natural disasters).

Originality/value

There is a limited research on how the use of counterfactual thinking and difference of vantage points shapes attitudes and evaluations of precariousness. To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study which has identified and explained the unprompted use of “luck” in the narratives of precarious workers.
Methadone to buprenorphine/naloxone induction without withdrawal utilizing transdermal fentanyl bridge in an inpatient setting—Azar method
Authors: Azar Pouya , Nikoo Mohammadali , Miles Isabelle
Published: November 2018

Background and Objectives

Although buprenorphine/naloxone is widely recognized as first‐line therapy for opioid use disorder, the requirement for moderate withdrawal prior to initiation in efforts to avoid precipitated withdrawal can be a barrier to its initiation.

Methods

We present a case utilizing transdermal fentanyl as a bridging treatment to eliminate withdrawal during the transition from methadone to buprenorphine/naloxone in a patient who had ongoing significant intravenous heroin use while on methadone.

Results

Patient was successfully transitioned from methadone to buprenorphine/naloxone without a period of withdrawal utilizing transdermal fentanyl as a bridge in an inpatient setting.

Discussion and Conclusions

Our experience indicates a transdermal depot of fentanyl allows for slow release and elimination while buprenorphine doses are introduced during an induction without presence of withdrawal, as quantified by serial clinical opiate withdrawal score.

Scientific Significance

This case report highlights ways to minimize barriers to induction of first‐line opioid substitution therapy, buprenorphine/naloxone, by eliminating withdrawal during induction phase utilizing a fentanyl bridge within the limitations of a transdermal fentanyl bridge in an inpatient setting. (Am J Addict 2018;XX:1–4)
Treatment with tenofovir alafenamide fumarate worsens the lipid profile of HIV‐infected patients versus treatment with tenofovir disoproxil fumarate, each coformulated with elvitegravir, cobicistat, and emtricitabine
Authors: Cid‐Silva Purificación , Fernández‐Bargiela Noelia , Margusino‐Framiñán Luis , Balboa‐Barreiro Vanesa , Mena‐De‐Cea Álvaro , López‐Calvo Soledad , Vázquez‐Rodríguez Pilar , Martín‐Herranz Isabel , Míguez‐Rey Enrique , Poveda Eva , Castro‐Iglesias Ángeles
Published: November 2018

Two elvitegravir/cobicistat‐based therapies combined with emtricitabine/tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (EVG/c/FTC/TDF) or emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide fumarate (EVG/c/FTC/TAF) are currently available for HIV patients. This study evaluated the modifications in the lipid profile of patients who received these treatments in the last three years at our institution. A retrospective observational study in HIV‐infected patients who received EVG/c/FTC/TDF or EVG/c/FTC/TAF from January 2015 to January 2018 at a reference hospital in northwestern Spain was carried out. Epidemiological, clinical and immunovirological data were recorded. A statistical analysis was performed using SPSS software. A total of 384 EVG/c‐based therapies were initiated during the study period, 151 EVG/c/FTC/TDF and 233 EVG/c/FTC/TAF. A significantly negative influence in all the lipid profile parameters in experienced patients and total cholesterol (TC), and LDL‐C in naïve patients were observed after 48 weeks of treatment with EVG/c/FTC/TAF, while these parameters remained stable in the EVG/c/FTC/TDF group. During follow‐up, a greater proportion of patients had lipid levels above the normal range (63.1% TC, 56.2% LDL‐C) and new lipid‐modifying drugs were prescribed (11.9%) in the EVG/c/FTC/TAF group. The number of cardiovascular risk factors (OR 1.66 [95% CI 1.01‐2.72]; P = 0.043) was recognised as an independent predictor of lipid‐lowering prescription for patients treated with both EVG/c/FTC/TDF and EVG/c/FTC/TAF. For patients treated with EVG/c/FTC/TAF, the mean total cholesterol to HDL ratio in the first 48 weeks of the study treatment was associated with a higher likelihood of lipid‐lowering prescription in multivariate analysis (OR 1.6 [95% CI 1.12‐2.52]; P = 0.011). Significant changes in lipid profile have been observed in patients who have received EVG/c/FTC/TAF. It was necessary to prescribe almost twice the number of lipid‐lowering drugs to patients who received EVG/c/FTC/TAF (11.9%) vs EVG/c/FTC/TDF (4.7%).
A Non-Randomized Procedure for Large-Scale Heterogeneous Multiple Discrete Testing Based on Randomized Tests
Authors: Dai Xiaoyu , Lin Nan , Li Daofeng , Wang Ting
Published: November 2018

In the analysis of next-generation sequencing technology, massive discrete data are generated from short read counts with varying biological coverage. Conducting conditional hypothesis testing such as Fisher's Exact Test at every genomic region of interest thus leads to a heterogeneous multiple discrete testing problem. However, most existing multiple testing procedures for controlling the false discovery rate (FDR) assume that test statistics are continuous and become conservative for discrete tests. To overcome the conservativeness, in this article, we propose a novel multiple testing procedure for better FDR control on heterogeneous discrete tests. Our procedure makes decisions based on the marginal critical function (MCF) of randomized tests, which enables achieving a powerful and non-randomized multiple testing procedure. We provide upper bounds of the positive FDR (pFDR) and the positive false non-discovery rate (pFNR) corresponding to our procedure. We also prove that the set of detections made by our method contains every detection made by a naive application of the widely-used q-value method. We further demonstrate the improvement of our method over other existing multiple testing procedures by simulations and a real example of differentially methylated region (DMR) detection using whole-genome bisulfite sequencing (WGBS) data.
Resilient and Self‐reliant Life: South Sudanese Refugees Imagining Futures in the Adjumani Refugee Setting, Uganda
Authors: Schiltz Julie , Derluyn Ilse , Vanderplasschen Wouter , Vindevogel Sofie
Published: November 2018

Resilience and self‐reliance have become central in humanitarian responses to refugee situations. Based on a two‐year longitudinal qualitative study, this article explores how South Sudanese refugee youngsters in Uganda imagine and act towards their futures, and questions what resilience and self‐reliance can mean in the temporary space of the refugee camp. Youngsters need to become accustomed to a future without substantial progress, or be ready to play the game of chance. As such, a resilience and self‐reliance policy not only reveals the powerlessness of refugee youth, but also the limits of a humanitarian project to seek actual solutions to refugee situations.
This Land is My Land: Absence and Ruination in the American Dream of (Mobile) Homeownership
Authors: Formanack Allison
Published: November 2018

Manufactured homes occupy a unique space in the American sociopolitical landscape. Colloquially referred to as “mobile homes” or “trailers,” manufactured housing’s ambiguous social, legal, and financial categorization produces continuous displacement pressure for millions of mobile‐homeowners living in for‐profit mobile home communities (MHCs). This article examines the consequences of mobile‐homeowner disparagement as “trailer trash” through the case study of Isabel, a mobile‐homeowner whose twofold eviction—of both owner and home—was justified based on her possession of socially undesirable (mobile) housing. Drawing on fieldwork in urban MHCs from 2011 to 2016, this article reconstructs Isabel’s story via the materiality of eviction and demonstrates a methodology for urban ethnographers who encounter displacement after the fact. Whereas corporate and municipal narratives attempt to delegitimize mobile home residents as “not quite” homeowners, reintroducing Isabel as an absent subject illustrates how potent sociocultural disdain produces, and even anticipates, the material ruination of “trailer trash.” [Housing; United States; Absence; Materiality; Ruination; Mobile Homes]
Epicardial fat thickness: A new predictor of successful electrical cardioversion and atrial fibrillation recurrence
Authors: Dereli Seçkin , Bayramoğlu Adil , Yontar Osman Can , Cerşit Sinan , Gürsoy Mustafa Ozan
Published: November 2018

Objective

In recent years, epicardial fat tissue (EFT) has been found to be strongly associated with the development of atrial fibrillation (AF) and post‐ablation long‐term recurrence. The current study investigated the procedural success rate of electrical cardioversion (ECV) and potential predictors of treatment failure in patients with nonvalvular persistent AF.

Methods

A total of 262 nonvalvular persistent AF patients who were scheduled for elective ECV were included in this prospective study. Routine transthoracic echocardiography was performed before the procedure and EFT thickness was measured. The presence of left atrial appendage thrombus was evaluated by transesophageal echocardiography. The patients were followed up for 6 months to examine any recurrence after ECV.

Results

The success rate of ECV was 85% and the recurrence rate was 35% during the 6‐month follow‐up period. The mean EFT thickness was 8.67 ± 1.2 mm in the persistent AF group with unsuccessful ECV and 6.81 ± 0.8 in the patients in whom sinus rhythm (SR) was maintained, the EFT was significantly thicker in the AF group (P = 0.001). EFT (P = 0.001) and left ventricular end‐diastolic diameters (LVEDD) (P = 0.001) were significantly different between those who had maintained SR and those with recurrent AF during the 6‐month follow‐up period after ECV. In the multiple logistic regression analysis, LVEDD (odds ratio [OR]: 1.320 (1.023–1.703 95% confidence interval [CI]), P = 0.032)] and EFT [OR: 3.029 (1.013–9.055 95% CI), P = 0.047)] were identified as independent predictors of successful ECV.

Conclusion

Epicardial fat tissue thickness can be effectively used for the prediction of successful ECV and AF recurrence during follow‐up in AF patients.
Circumferential extent of thinning of the basal muscular ventricular septum in a case of cardiac sarcoidosis
Authors: Yatomi Atsusuke , Mori Shumpei , Shono Ayu , Kamio Tsubasa , Shimoyama Shinsuke , Izawa Yu , Hirata Ken‐ichi
Published: November 2018

Focal thinning of the basal muscular ventricular septum is a characteristic morphological finding in cases of cardiac sarcoidosis, usually detected on the parasternal long‐axis image during echocardiography. Surprisingly, however, its circumferential extent has rarely been demonstrated and discussed. We present a case showing typical thinning of the basal ventricular septum. The extent of circumferential wall thinning was evaluated using both echocardiography and cardiac computed tomography. The present case highlights the importance of detailed multiplanar and three‐dimensional evaluation of this characteristic abnormality, more so because its mechanism as well as the precise impact on conduction has not yet been elucidated.
The role of transesophageal echocardiography in the management of renal cell carcinoma with venous tumor thrombus
Authors: Calderone Carli E. , Tuck Benjamin C. , Gray Stephen H. , Porter Kristin K. , Rais‐Bahrami Soroush
Published: November 2018

We reviewed the role of transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) in the management of renal cell carcinoma (RCC) with associated tumor thrombus. Many consider intraoperative TEE as imperative in cases of Level 4 thrombi with atrial involvement, as well as in cases that require the use of cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB). However, the role of TEE in the surgical management of RCC with associated inferior vena cava (IVC) thrombus may expand beyond this subset. When performed after induction, TEE provides updated information regarding tumor thrombus staging, which is essential for optimal surgical planning. Furthermore, TEE provides feedback regarding properties of the thrombus, such as fragility and adherence, which may alter surgical technique. TEE can also be used intraoperatively for central venous line placement, to monitor cardiovascular and fluid status, to guide vascular clamp placement, and to ensure complete removal of the tumor thrombus. In some cases, the use of TEE allows for less morbid procedures and safe avoidance of CPB. We therefore recommend the use of preoperative TEE in all cases with a known tumor thrombus with discretion as to what extent TEE is used throughout the remainder of the case. Further investigation is necessary to elucidate the effect of TEE on patient outcomes, including surgical complication rates, morbidity and mortality of procedures, and cancer control.
Values, institutions and the rise of Eastern Europe
Authors: Zoega Gylfi , Phelps Edmund S.
Published: November 2018

We study the convergence of output per capita in a sample of 37 European countries to the German real GDP per capita level during the period 1999–2014 with the aim of testing whether the speed of convergence is uniform or depends on institutions, such as membership of the European Union, the euro, or values. The results suggest that the post‐communist economies are converging more rapidly than other countries in the sample and more so the closer they are integrated into the European Union. Moreover, we find that certain values are conducive to the catching up process and that it has generated increased job satisfaction and male labour force participation.
Opto nongenetics inhibition of neuronal firing
Authors: Ait Ouares Karima , Beurrier Corinne , Canepari Marco , Laverne Gwenaelle , Kuczewski Nicola
Published: November 2018

Optogenetics is based on the selective expression of exogenous opsins by neurons allowing experimental control of their electrical activity using visible light. The interpretation of the results of optogenetic experiments is based on the assumption that light stimulation selectively acts on those neurons expressing the exogenous opsins without perturbing the activity of naive ones. Here, we report that light stimulation, of wavelengths and power in the range of those normally used in optogenetic experiments, consistently reduces the firing activity of naive Mitral Cells (MCs) and Tufted Neurons in the olfactory bulb as well as in Medium Spiny Neurons (MSNs) in the striatum. No such effect was observed for cerebellar Purkinje and hippocampal CA1 neurons. The effects on MC firing appear to be mainly due to a light‐induced increase in tissue temperature, between 0.1 and 0.4°C, associated with the generation of a hyperpolarizing current and a modification of action potential (AP) shape. Therefore, light in the visible range can affect neuronal physiology in a cell‐specific manner. Beside the implications for optogenetic studies, our results pave the way to investigating the use of visible light for therapeutic purposes in pathologies associated with neuronal hyperexcitability.
The Golgi ‘casein kinase’ Fam20C is a genuine ‘phosvitin kinase’ and phosphorylates polyserine stretches devoid of the canonical consensus
Authors: Cozza Giorgio , Moro Enrico , Black Miles , Marin Oriano , Salvi Mauro , Venerando Andrea , Tagliabracci Vincent S. , Pinna Lorenzo A.
Published: November 2018

Egg yolk phosvitins, generated through the fragmentation of vitellogenins (VTGs), are among the most heavily phosphorylated proteins ever described. Despite the early discovery in 1900 that chicken phosvitin is a phosphoprotein and its subsequent employment as an artificial substrate for a number of protein kinases, the identity of the enzyme(s) responsible for its phosphorylation remained a matter of conjecture until present. Here, we provide evidence that phosvitin phosphorylation is catalyzed by a family with sequence similarity 20, member C (Fam20C), an atypical protein kinase recently identified as the genuine casein kinase and responsible for the phosphorylation of many other secreted proteins at residues specified by the S‐x‐E/pS consensus. Such a conclusion is grounded on the following observations: (a) the levels of Fam20C and phosphorylated VTG rise in parallel upon treatment of zebrafish with oestrogens; (b) zebrafish phosvitin is readily phosphorylated upon coexpression in U2OS cells with Fam20C, but not with its catalytically inactive mutant; (c) a peptide reproducing a stretch of 12 serines, which are phosphorylated in chicken phosvitin despite lacking the C‐terminal priming motif S‐x‐E, is efficiently phosphorylated by both recombinant and native Fam20C. The last finding expands the repertoire of potential targets of Fam20C to include several proteins known to harbor (p‐Ser)n clusters not specified by any known kinase consensus.
Online accounts of gene expression profiling in early‐stage breast cancer: Interpreting genomic testing for chemotherapy decision making
Authors: Ross Emily , Swallow Julia , Kerr Anne , Cunningham‐Burley Sarah
Published: November 2018

Background

Genomic techniques are being developed within oncology and beginning to be experienced within routine cancer care. Little is known about how these tools feature in patients’ experiences of treatment decision making.

Objective

This research explores the ways in which women interpret and discuss gene expression profiling for breast cancer treatment decision making, as articulated within online accounts.

Design

This study used a qualitative approach to analyse written exchanges focusing on gene expression profiling in the UK (Oncotype DX test). Accounts are taken from online forums hosted by two UK cancer charity websites, comprising 132 discussion threads from a total of seven forums. Authors qualitatively analysed the data and developed key themes drawing on existing literature from medical sociology.

Findings

Women used online spaces to share and discuss results of gene expression profiling. Women interpreted results in the context of indirect experience of cancer treatment, and sociocultural depictions of cancer and chemotherapy. Users largely represented the test positively, emphasizing its ability to “personalize” treatment pathways, though many also pointed to inherent uncertainties with regards the possibility of cancer recurrence.

Discussion and Conclusions

We highlight the complex contexts in which genomic techniques are experienced, with these shaped by personal biographies, online environments and pervasive cultural narratives of cancer and its treatment. We highlight tensions between the claims of genomic testing to aid treatment decision making and patient reflections on the capability of these techniques to resolve uncertainties surrounding treatment decisions.
Macrophage populations show an M1‐to‐M2 transition in an experimental model of coronal pulp tissue engineering with mesenchymal stem cells
Authors: Gu B. , Kaneko T. , Zaw S. Y. M. , Sone P. P. , Murano H. , Sueyama Y. , Zaw Z. C. T. , Okiji T.
Published: November 2018

Aim

To assess M1/M2 macrophage phenotypes in a coronal pulp regeneration model in rats, under the hypothesis that there are dynamic M1/M2 phenotype changes during the different stages of the pulp regeneration.

Methodology

The maxillary first molars of Wistar rats were pulpotomized, and biodegradable hydrogel‐made scaffolds carrying rat bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells were implanted in the pulp chamber. After 3, 7 and 14 days, samples were processed for (i) histological analysis and double immunoperoxidase staining for CD68 (a general macrophage marker) and one of either CCR7 (an M1 marker), CD163 (an M2 marker) or CD206 (an M2 marker); (ii) real‐time PCR for AIF1 (an M1 marker), CD163, CD206, IL‐10 and TNF‐α mRNA expression; and (iii) Western blotting for the detection of CD68, CCR7 and CD206 proteins.

Results

Histological analysis of the implanted region revealed sparse cellular distribution at 3 days, pulp‐like tissue with a thin dentine bridge‐like structure at 7 days, and dentine bridge‐like mineralized tissue formation and resorption of most scaffolds at 14 days. CCR7+ macrophages had the highest density at 3 days, and then significantly decreased until 14 days (P < 0.05). In contrast, M2 marker (CD163 or CD206) expressing macrophages had the lowest density at 3 days and significantly increased until 14 days (P < 0.05). AIF1 and TNF‐α mRNA levels, and CD68 and CCR7 protein levels were highest at 3 days. CD163 and CD206 mRNA levels, and CD206 protein levels increased with time and showed the highest at 14 days. IL‐10 mRNA was highest at 3 days, decreased at 7 days and increased at 14 days.

Conclusions

Macrophages in the regenerating pulp tissue underwent a distinct transition from M1‐dominant to M2‐dominant, suggesting that the M1‐to‐M2 transition of macrophages plays an important role in creating a favourable microenvironment necessary for pulp tissue regeneration.
Sodium percarbonate as a novel intracoronal bleaching agent: assessment of the associated risk of cervical root resorption
Authors: Zoya A. , Tewari R. K. , Mishra S. K. , Faisal S. M. , Ali S. , Kumar A. , Moin S.
Published: November 2018

Aim

To evaluate the extraradicular peroxide release from sodium percarbonate compared to sodium perborate as an intracoronal bleaching agent.

Methodology

Sixty mandibular single‐rooted premolars with intact CEJ were selected. After root filling, gutta‐percha was removed 4 mm apical to CEJ and 2 mm of GIC was condensed over the root filling. Intracoronal bleaching agents were placed into six groups of teeth (n = 10): sodium perborate with distilled water (SPW); sodium percarbonate with distilled water (SPCW); sodium perborate with 30% hydrogen peroxide (SPHP); sodium percarbonate with 30% hydrogen peroxide (SPCHP); 30% hydrogen peroxide as positive control (HP) and distilled water as negative control (CL). The teeth were then mounted in vials filled with distilled water, kept in an incubator and taken out at 1, 3 and 6 days for spectrophotometric analysis. Extraradicular peroxide release was quantified by the ferrothiocyanate method. Statistical analysis was undertaken with one‐way anova and Scheffe post hoc tests.

Results

The greatest peroxide release occurred in the HP group, followed by the SPCHP and SPHP groups, and then by the SPCW and SPW groups. Intergroup comparison revealed that there was no significant difference in peroxide release among the groups SPCW and SPW on days 1, 3 and 6 (P > 0.05). Similarly, no significant difference was found between the SPCHP and SPHP treated groups on days 1, 3 and 6 (P > 0.05).

Conclusion

Extraradicular peroxide release from sodium percarbonate was comparable to that of sodium perborate, as the differences were not significant.
Giant dielectric constant and tunable phase‐transition characteristics of ZnF2/BaF2‐modified BaTiO3 thick films
Authors: Key Sung Hun , Oh Hyo Chan , Han Chan Su , Cho Yong Soo
Published: November 2018

High performance capacitors have been investigated to meet higher integration density with optimized charge‐storing capability. Here, we introduce nonconventional thick film dielectric compositions based on 95BaTiO3–xZnF2–(2−x)BaF2–3glass (x = 0.5, 1.0, and 1.5) where the relative content of ZnF2/BaF2 is critical in controlling dielectric behavior. The thick films were prepared on Cu foils by regular screen‐printing and then firing at 950°C in inert atmosphere. As an optimal example, thick film composition modified with 1.0ZnF2/1.0BaF2 exhibited a dielectric constant of ~1903 and a dielectric loss of ~0.04 at 1 MHz with dispersive dielectric relaxation behavior, which are far better than any reported corresponding values so far. Particularly, it was very interesting to observe that Curie temperature was tunable from −19 to +34°C, depending on the relative content of fluoride additives only within the 2 mol% range. Dependency of the relative contents of the fluorides is primarily investigated with regard to microstructure and dielectric properties.