bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diagnosis and Management of Hyperthyroidism in Pregnancy: A Review
Authors: King Jennifer Renae , Lachica Ruben , Lee Richard H. , Montoro Martin , Mestman Jorge
Published: November 2016

Importance

Hyperthyroidism has important implications for pregnancy, affecting both mother and fetus. Appropriate maternal and fetal management iscritical to avoiding adverse pregnancy outcomes and requires a multidisciplinary approach.

Objective

To describe maternal diagnosis and management of hyperthyroidism, across all stages of pregnancy. In addition, to review clinical signs of fetal thyroid dysfunction due to maternal Graves disease and discuss management considerations.

Evidence Acquisition

Review of published articles on PubMed and guidelines by recognized governing organizations regarding the diagnostic and management considerations for hyperthyroidism in pregnancy, from preconception to the postpartum period.

Results

Diagnosis of maternal hyperthyroidism involves both clinical symptoms and laboratory findings. Antithyroid medications are the mainstay of therapy, with trimester-specific pregnancy goals. Hyperthyroidism due to Graves disease has important diagnostic and management considerations for the fetus and neonate.

Conclusions and Relevance

Hyperthyroidism in pregnancy affects mother, fetus, and neonate. Interpretation of thyroid tests and understanding the appropriate use of antithyroid drugs are fundamental. Proper education of physicians providing care to women with hyperthyroidism is essential and starts before pregnancy. Postpartum follow-up is an essential part of the care. A systematic approach to management will ensure optimal pregnancy outcomes.

Target Audience

Obstetricians and gynecologists, family physicians

Learning Objectives

After completing this activity, the learner should be better able to: (1) describe the diagnosis of hyperthyroidism in pregnancy, (2) discuss medical management of hyperthyroidism during pregnancy, (3) review the clinical signs of fetal thyroid dysfunction, (4) describe the symptoms and treatment of thyroid storm in pregnancy, and (5) review management considerations in the postpartum period for women with hyperthyroidism.
Recent Estimates of the Incidence of Hysterectomy in New South Wales and Trends Over the Past 30 Years
Authors: Yusuf Farhat , Leeder Stephen , Wilson Andrew
Published: November 2016

(Abstracted from Aust N Z J Obstet Gynaecol 2016;56:420–425)

Although new therapeutic approaches are available for most common conditions for which hysterectomy may be indicated, hysterectomy remains one of the frequently performed surgical operations in Australia.
A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis on the Efficacy of Intravesical Therapy for Bladder Pain Syndrome/Interstitial Cystitis
Authors: Barua Jayanta M. , Arance Ignacio , Angulo Javier C. , Riedl Claus R.
Published: November 2016

(Abstracted from Int Urogynecol J 2016;27:1137–1147)

Although the precise pathophysiology of bladder pain syndrome/interstitial cystitis (BPS/IC) is unclear, the underlying mechanism appears related to a defect in the urine-tissue barrier (the bladder’s protective mucous lining of glycosaminoglycans [GAG]). This defect has been documented in a subset of BPS/IC patients, and a favorable response to GAG-restoring agents has been reported.
Uptake, Outcomes, and Costs of Implementing Non-invasive Prenatal Testing for Down Syndrome Into NHS Maternity Care: Prospective Cohort Study in Eight Diverse Maternity Units
Authors: Chitty Lyn S. , Wright David , Hill Melissa , Verhoef Talitha I. , Daley Rebecca , Lewis Celine , Mason Sarah , McKay Fiona , Jenkins Lucy , Howarth Abigail , Cameron Louise , McEwan Alec , Fisher Jane , Kroese Mark , Morris Stephen
Published: November 2016

(Abstracted from BMJ 2016;354:i3426)

Noninvasive prenatal testing, also known as cell-free DNA (cfDNA) screening, is an efficient screening test for Down syndrome with roughly 99% sensitivity and false-positive rates of less than 0.1% in both high-risk and general populations. This study aimed to examine the potential costs and consequences of introducing cfDNA screening in the public sector Down syndrome screening pathway as an additional screening test dependent on the risk generated by current screening.
Self-reported Preparedness to Respond to Mass Fatality Incidents in 38 State Health Departments
Authors: Merrill Jacqueline , Zhi Qi , Gershon Robyn R.
Published: November 2016

Context:

Public health departments play an important role in the preparation and response to mass fatality incidents (MFIs).

Objective:

To describe MFI response capabilities of US state health departments.

Design:

The data are part of a multisector cross-sectional study aimed at 5 sectors that comprise the US mass fatality infrastructure. Data were collected over a 6-week period via a self-administered, anonymous Web-based survey.

Setting:

In 2014, a link to the survey was distributed via e-mail to health departments in 50 states and the District of Columbia.

Participants:

State health department representatives responsible for their state's MFI plans.

Measures:

Preparedness was assessed using 3 newly developed metrics: organizational capabilities (n = 19 items); operational capabilities (n = 19 items); and resource-sharing capabilities (n = 13 items).

Results:

Response rate was 75% (n = 38). Among 38 responses, 37 rated their workplace moderately or well prepared; 45% reported MFI training, but only 30% reported training on MFI with hazardous contaminants; 58% estimated high levels of staff willingness to respond, but that dropped to 40% if MFIs involved hazardous contaminants; and 84% reported a need for more training. On average, 76% of operational capabilities were present. Resource sharing was most prevalent with state Office of Emergency Management but less evident with faith-based organizations and agencies within the medical examiner sector.

Conclusion:

Overall response capability was adequate, with gaps found in capabilities where public health shares responsibility with other sectors. Collaborative training with other sectors is critical to ensure optimal response to future MFIs, but recent funding cuts in public health preparedness may adversely impact this critical preparedness element. In order for the sector to effectively meet its public health MFI responsibilities as delineated in the National Response Framework, resources to support training and other elements of preparedness must be maintained.
Fat Suppressed Contrast-Enhanced T1-Weighted Dynamic Magnetic Resonance Imaging at 3T: Comparison of Image Quality Between Spectrally Adiabatic Iversion Recovery and the Multiecho Dixon Technique in Imaging of the Prostate
Authors: Iyama Yuji , Nakaura Takeshi , Kidoh Masafumi , Katahira Kazuhiro , Namimoto Tomohiro , Morishita Shoji , Yamashita Yasuyuki
Published: November 2016

Objective

To compare the quality of fat suppression and image quality between multiecho Dixon technique (mDixon) and spectrally adiabatic iversion recovery (SPAIR) in dynamic contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging of the prostate.

Methods

This prospective study assigned thirty consecutive patients to scanning with SPAIR technique (SPAIR protocol) and another consecutive 30 patients to scanning with mDixon technique (mDixon protocol). We calculated the contrast, signal to noise ratio (SNR), contrast to noise ratio (CNR) and the coefficient of variation between the 2 protocols. Two readers compared homogeneity of fat suppression, image noise, image contrast, and image sharpness between the two protocols.

Results

The SNR, CNR, and contrast of mDixon protocol were significantly higher than those of the SPAIR protocol (SNR: 14.7 ± 4.1 vs 11.0 ± 2.6; P < 0.05; CNR: 6.3 ± 1.6 vs 0.5 ± 1.5; P < 0.01; contrast: 4.4 ± 1.4 vs 1.3 ± 0.5; P < 0.01), whereas the coefficient of variation of mDixon protocol was significantly lower than that of SPAIR protocol (34.7 ± 15.5 vs 43.7 ± 23.1, P < 0.01). In qualitative image analysis, the image scores for the homogeneity of fat suppression, image noise, and image sharpness were significantly higher with mDixon protocol than those with SPAIR protocol (P < 0.01). There was no significant difference in image contrast between 2 fat suppression protocols (P > 0.05).

Conclusions

In dynamic contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging of the prostate, mDixon technique improved the homogeneity of fat suppression without degrade of image quality compared with SPAIR technique.
Susceptibility Weighted With Quantitative Phase Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Differentiation of Various Stages of Hemorrhage and Calcification in Female Pelvic Pathologies: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Khurana Sakshi , Sahoo Prativa , Kapila Mukta , Mittal Swati , Mahajan Manavita , Saha Indrajit , Gupta Rakesh Kumar
Published: November 2016

Background

The purposes of this study were to assess the value of phase for characterization of female pelvic lesions with hemorrhage in various stages and to differentiate them from calcified lesions at 3.0-T magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Methods

Forty-four female patients with hemorrhagic (n = 37) or calcified (n = 7) pelvic pathology underwent conventional MRI including susceptibility-weighted imaging with phase information. Hemorrhagic lesions were grouped into acute, subacute, and chronic, and calcified lesions were detected on the basis of conventional imaging findings. Phase quantification of these hemorrhagic and calcified lesions was performed.

Results

The phase values significantly differed (P < 0.001) among various stages of hemorrhage, as well as calcification (chronic hemorrhage, −65.09 ± 9.09 degrees; subacute hemorrhage, −11.41 ± 4.4 degrees; acute hemorrhage, −42.30 ± 5.20 degrees; and calcified lesions, 117.55 ± 12.93 degrees).

Conclusions

Quantitative phase imaging has the potential to differentiate various stages of hemorrhagic and calcified pathologies. This may add value to the conventional MRI in improved characterization of these entities in female pelvic pathologies.
Bifid Mandibular Canals Incidence and Anatomical Variations in the Population of Shanghai Area by Cone Beam Computed Tomography
Authors: Yang Xiaoli , Lyu Chengqi , Zou Derong
Published: November 2016

Objective

The aim of this study was to analyze the rate, location, and characteristics of bifid mandibular canals (BMCs) in the population of the Shanghai area using cone beam computed tomography to avoid complications during surgical procedures.

Methods

Two hundred eighty patients were recruited for this study, and the presence and morphology of BMCs were evaluated.

Results

The occurrence rate of BMCs in the Shanghai area was relatively high compared with that in other populations, reaching 31.1%. In addition, the study also found some far less-common trifid mandibular canals, as well as a peculiarly shaped special type, which we called v-type canal that has yet to be described.

Conclusions

Our study underlined the different characteristics and occurrence rates of BMCs in the population of the Shanghai area and the importance of using cone beam computed tomography for a reliable detection, providing useful information to help prevent presurgery and postsurgery complications.
Disease Activity Score on 28 Joints and Polypharmacy Are Independent Predictors for Health-Related Quality of Life Evaluated by INCAVISA in Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: González-Gamboa Linda Mariana , Barocio-Ramírez Ana Karen , Rocha-Muñoz Alberto Daniel , de Santos-Ávila Fabiola , Meda-Lara Rosa M. , González-López Laura , Gámez-Nava Jorge Iván , Gómez-Bañuelos Eduardo , Chavarria-Avila Efrain , Durán-Barragán Sergio , Navarro-Hernández Rosa Elena , Pizano-Martínez Oscar Enrique , Nuñez-Atahualpa Lourdes , Vázquez-del Mercado Mónica
Published: November 2016

Objective

The aim of this study was to investigate the main factors associated to a diminished health-related quality of life (HRQoL) evaluated by INCAVISA (Health-Related Quality of Life Inventory for Latin American Patients) in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Methods

Female, 18 years or older, RA (American College of Rheumatology 1987 criteria and American College of Rheumatology/European League against Rheumatism 2010 criteria) patients who attended the outpatient rheumatology department of the Hospital Civil “Dr. Juan I. Menchaca,” Guadalajara, Mexico, matched with healthy controls were included. Patients with any known comorbidities or treatment with antidepressive drugs were excluded. Trained physicians performed the RA clinical evaluation and INCAVISA. All data were analyzed using SPSS 21.0 software (SPSS Inc, Chicago, IL); P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

Patients with polypharmacy (≥3 drugs) had a lower HRQoL by INCAVISA. The number of drugs, total comorbidities, and DAS-28 (Disease Activity Score on 28 Joints) were negatively correlated with total INCAVISA. In multivariate analysis, DAS-28 and polypharmacy were independent predictors for a negative perception of HRQoL evaluated by INCAVISA in RA patients.

Conclusions

Disease activity and disability secondary to RA have a negative impact in the HRQoL. Other factors such as the number of drugs prescribed to these patients have been shown to be important for the negative perception of their HRQoL evaluated by INCAVISA.
Diagnostic Yield for Cancer and Diagnostic Accuracy of Computed Tomography–guided Core Needle Biopsy of Subsolid Pulmonary Lesions
Authors: Munir Sohaib , Koppikar Sahil , Hopman Wilma M. , Boag Alexander H. , Dhillon Gurmohan , Salahudeen Shafeequr Rahman , Nolan Robert L. , Flood Justin
Published: November 2016

Purpose:

We aimed to determine the diagnostic yield for cancer and diagnostic accuracy of computed tomography–guided core needle biopsy (CTNB) in subsolid pulmonary lesions.

Materials and Methods:

Fifty-two biopsies of 52 subsolid lesions in 51 patients were identified from a database of 912 lung biopsies and analyzed for the diagnostic yield for cancer and diagnostic accuracy of core CTNB diagnosis as well as complication rates.

Results:

When indeterminate biopsy results were included in the analysis, the diagnostic yield for cancer was 80.8% and the diagnostic accuracy of core needle biopsy was 84.6% (n=52). It was 85.7% and 91.7%, respectively, when indeterminate results were excluded (n=48) and 82.4% and 82.4%, respectively, for biopsies with surgical confirmation (n=17). Attenuation was statistically significant for diagnostic yield for cancer (P=0.028) and diagnostic accuracy of core needle biopsy (P=0.001) when the indeterminate results were excluded (n=48). Attenuation and size were not statistically significant for diagnostic yield for cancer and diagnostic accuracy of needle biopsy (n=52), and size was not statistically significant for either when the indeterminate results were excluded. These results were achieved without any major complications as per the Society of Interventional Radiology Standards of Practice.

Conclusions:

CTNB offers a high yield in establishing a histopathologic diagnosis of subsolid pulmonary lesions, with both ground-glass and solid-predominance. The pure ground-glass category of lesions requires further research to determine the true diagnostic yield and diagnostic accuracy of core needle biopsies.
Identification of Novel and Noninvasive Biomarkers of Acute Cellular Rejection After Liver Transplantation by Protein Microarray
Authors: Okubo Keita , Wada Hiroshi , Tanaka Atsushi , Eguchi Hidetoshi , Hamaguchi Masahide , Tomokuni Akira , Tomimaru Yoshito , Asaoka Tadafumi , Hama Naoki , Kawamoto Koichi , Kobayashi Shogo , Marubashi Shigeru , Nagano Hiroaki , Sakaguchi Noriko , Nishikawa Hiroyoshi , Doki Yuichiro , Mori Masaki , Sakaguchi Shimon
Published: November 2016

Background

Acute cellular rejection (ACR) is one of the main factors in transplanted organ failure in liver transplantation. A precise marker for diagnosing or predicting rejection is not currently available; therefore, invasive liver biopsy is standard procedure. To develop a noninvasive method for precise diagnosis of ACR, we evaluated autoantibodies from patient sera as potential biomarkers using protein microarrays (seromics).

Methods

Sera from hepatitis C virus–positive ACR patients were compared to three hepatitis C virus cirrhosis control groups and healthy volunteers. The control groups consisted of 2 no-ACR groups obtained on postoperative day 28 and 1 year after transplantation and a preoperative group obtained 1 day before transplantation. For validation, we evaluated whether the candidate antibodies can distinguish ACR from other types of liver dysfunction after liver transplantation using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.

Results

Seromic analysis by weighted average difference (WAD) ranking and Mann-Whitney U test revealed a significant increase of 57 autoantibodies in the sera of ACR patients with liver dysfunction. Among the 57 candidates, autoantibodies to charged multivesicular body protein 2B, potassium channel tetramerization domain containing 14, voltage gated subfamily A regulatory beta subunit 3, and triosephosphate isomerase 1 were regarded as potential biomarkers of ACR after liver transplantation. Using 20 ACR patients with variable backgrounds for validation, the autoantibodies to charged multivesicular body protein 2B and triosephosphate isomerase 1 were significantly increased in ACR patients compared to other control groups.

Conclusions

A panel of autoantibodies identified by seromics as potential noninvasive biomarkers was clinically useful for diagnosing ACR after liver transplantation.
Engineered reciprocal chromosome translocations drive high threshold, reversible population replacement in Drosophila
Authors: Buchman Anna B. , Ivy Tobin , Marshall John M. , Akbari Omar S. , Hay Bruce A.
Published: November 2016

Replacement of wild insect populations with transgene-bearing individuals unable to transmit disease or survive under specific environmental conditions provides self-perpetuating methods of disease prevention and population suppression, respectively. Gene drive mechanisms that require the gene drive element and linked cargo exceed a high threshold frequency to spread are attractive because they offer several points of control: they bring about local, but not global population replacement; and transgenes can be eliminated by reintroducing wildtypes into the population so as to drive the frequency of transgenes below the threshold required for drive. It has long been recognized that reciprocal chromosome translocations could, in principal, be used to bring about high threshold gene drive through a form of underdominance. However, translocations able to drive population replacement have not been reported, leaving it unclear if translocation-bearing strains fit enough to mediate gene drive can easily be generated. Here we use modeling to identify a range of conditions under which translocations should spread, and the equilibrium frequencies achieved, given specific introduction frequencies, fitness costs and migration rates. We also report the creation of engineered translocation-bearing strains ofDrosophila melanogaster, generated through targeted chromosomal breakage and homologous recombination. By several measures translocation-bearing strains are fit, and drive high threshold, reversible population replacement in laboratory populations. These observations, together with the generality of the tools used to generate translocations, suggest that engineered translocations may be useful for controlled population replacement in many species.
Construction of a high-density American cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarponAit.) composite map using genotyping-by-sequencing for multi-pedigree linkage mapping
Authors: Schlautman Brandon , Covarrubias-Pazaran Giovanny , Diaz-Garcia Luis , Iorizzo Massmo , Polashock James , Grygleski Edward , Vorsa Nicholi , Zalapa Juan
Published: November 2016

The American cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarponAit.) is a recently domesticated, economically important, fruit crop with limited molecular resources. New genetic resources could accelerate genetic gain in cranberry through characterization of its genomic structure and by enabling molecular-assisted breeding strategies. To increase the availability of cranberry genomic resources, genotyping-by-sequencing (GBS) was used to discover and genotype thousands of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) within three inter-related cranberry full-sib populations. Additional simple sequence repeat (SSR) loci were added to the SNP datasets and used to construct bin maps for the parents of the populations, which were then merged to create the first high-density cranberry composite map containing 6073 markers (5437 SNPs and 636 SSRs) on 12 linkage groups (LGs) spanning 1124 cM. Interestingly, higher rates of recombination were observed in maternal than paternal gametes. The large number of markers in common (mean of 57.3) and the high degree of observed collinearity (mean Pair-wise Spearman Rank Correlations > 0.99) between the LGs of the parental maps demonstrates the utility of GBS in cranberry for identifying polymorphic SNP loci that are transferable between pedigrees and populations in future trait-association studies. Furthermore, the high-density of markers anchored within the component maps allowed identification of segregation distortion regions, placement of centromeres on each of the 12 LGs, and anchoring of genomic scaffolds. Collectively, the results represent an important contribution to the current understanding of cranberry genomic structure and to the availability of molecular tools for future genetic research and breeding efforts in cranberry.
PDGFRβ regulates craniofacial development through homodimers and functional heterodimers with PDGFRα
Authors: Fantauzzo Katherine A. , Soriano Philippe
Published: November 2016

Craniofacial development is a complex morphogenetic process, disruptions in which result in highly prevalent human birth defects. While platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) receptor α (PDGFRα) has well-documented functions in this process, the role of PDGFRβ in murine craniofacial development is not well established. We demonstrate that PDGFRα and PDGFRβ are coexpressed in the craniofacial mesenchyme of mid-gestation mouse embryos and that ablation of Pdgfrb in the neural crest lineage results in increased nasal septum width, delayed palatal shelf development, and subepidermal blebbing. Furthermore, we show that the two receptors genetically interact in this lineage, as double-homozygous mutant embryos exhibit an overt facial clefting phenotype more severe than that observed in either single-mutant embryo. We reveal a physical interaction between PDGFRα and PDGFRβ in the craniofacial mesenchyme and demonstrate that the receptors form functional heterodimers with distinct signaling properties. Our studies thus uncover a novel mode of signaling for the PDGF family during vertebrate development.
(2Z)-2-Benzylidene-4-[(1-benzyl-1H-1,2,3-triazol-4-yl)methyl]-3,4-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzothiazin-3-one
Authors: Sebbar Nada Kheira , Ellouz Mohamed , Boulhaoua Mohammed , Ouzidan Younes , Essassi El Mokhtar , Mague Joel T.
Published: November 2016

In the title molecule, C25H20N4OS, the dihedral angle between the plane of the dihydrothiazine ring and that of the fused C6ring is 1.0 (2)°, indicating a slight twist in the dihydrobenzothiophene unit; there is a roughly perpendicular relationship between the fused C6ring and the triazole ring [dihedral angle = 73.2 (1)°]. The packing comprises chains running parallel to thecaxis formed by weak C—H...O hydrogen bonds, with the benzyl rings intercalated between adjacent chains. The benzyl ring is statistically disordered. The sample was refined as a twin.
Changes in information environment and merger announcements
Authors: Balasubramnian Bhanu , Fuller Kathleen , Steigner Tanja
Published: November 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the impact of regulatory changes by the US Securities and Exchange Commission in 2000 on private information leakage prior to merger announcements.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a sample of 5,045 merger announcements between 1990 and 2008, the authors examine differences in information leakage between the pre- and post-regulation period merger announcements for acquirers using regression analysis.

Findings

The results suggest that regulatory changes have been effective in preventing private information leakage in merger announcements for large- and medium-sized firms, for high-tech firms, and for stock deals. The authors find that abnormal trading volume due to differences in information quality is reduced post-regulation for stock deals, high-tech firms, large- and medium-sized bidders, indicating less leakage of information after the new regulations. The authors find higher announcement returns post-regulation for the entire sample and for all subsamples except stock deals, small firms, and public targets. Higher announcement returns indicate that merger announcements are a greater surprise to the market due to a reduction in leaked private information after the regulatory changes.

Practical implications

The results have implications on future rule changes, on refinements of insider trading rules, regulation fair disclosure, and regulation M-A. The authors leave for future research why certain types of firms or deals are not impacted by regulatory changes.

Originality/value

Examine the effect of changes in information environment on merger announcements for acquirers because the impact likely has greater significance on acquirers than that on targets. Past studies have examined only targets.
The Janus Conference a decade later
Authors: Stoller Michael Edward
Published: November 2016

Purpose

This paper aims to analyze and understand the changes in the academic library collection landscape since the Janus Conference in 2005.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper is reflective, reviewing the outcomes of the Janus Conference and providing a careful analysis of the library collection landscape that has evolved since.

Findings

Dramatic changes in both library funding and the organization of the scholarly environment have required significant changes to the way one thinks of the library collections and their relation with one another.

Originality/value

This paper provides a new perspective on the nature of the research librarian and his/her relationship to the building of library collections and the provision of access to them.
Factors affecting perceived level of virtuality in hybrid construction project teams (HCPTs)
Authors: Hosseini M. Reza , Chileshe Nicholas , Baroudi Bassam , Zuo Jian , Mills Anthony
Published: November 2016

Purpose

Deploying hybrid construction project teams (HCPTs) in which the common pattern of interactions is a blend of face-to-face and virtual communications has been increasingly gaining momentum in the construction context. Evidence has demonstrated that effectiveness of HCPTs is affected by a perceived level of virtuality, i.e. the perception of distance and boundaries between members where teams shift towards working virtually as opposed to purely collocated teams. This study aims to provide an integrated model of the factors affecting perceived virtuality in HCPTs, to address the conspicuous absence of studies on virtuality in the construction context.

Design/methodology/approach

An a priori list of factors extracted from existing literature on virtuality was subjected to the scrutiny of 17 experts with experiences of working in HCPTs through semi-structured interviews. Nvivo 10 was deployed for analysing the interview transcripts.

Findings

The findings outline the factors affecting virtuality in HCPTs and map the patterns of their associations as an integrated model. This leads to discovering a number of novel factors, which exert moderating impacts upon perceived virtuality in HCPTs.

Practical implications

The findings assist managers and practitioners dealing with any form of HCPTs (including building information modelling-based networks and distributed design teams) in identifying the variables manipulating the effectiveness of their teams. This enables them of designing more effective team arrangements.

Originality/value

As the first empirical study on virtuality in the construction context, this paper contributes to the sphere by conceptualising and contextualising the concept of virtuality in the construction industry. The study presents a new typology for the factors affecting perceived virtuality by categorising them into predictors and moderators.
Lean and agile integration within offsite construction using discrete event simulation
Authors: Mostafa Sherif , Chileshe Nicholas , Abdelhamid Tariq
Published: November 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to systematically analyse and synthesise the existing research published on offsite manufacturing/construction. The study aims to highlight and associate the core elements for adopting the offsite concept in different construction contexts. This ultimately facilitates the enhancement of the offsite uptake.

Design/methodology/approach

The research study was carried out through a systematic literature review (SLR). The SLR was conducted to identify and understand the existing themes in the offsite research landscape, evaluate contributions and compile knowledge, thereby identifying potential directions of future research. The grand electronic databases were explored to gather literature on the offsite concept, lean and agile principles and simulation. A total of 62 related articles published between 1992 and 2015 have been included in this study. The relevant literature was systematically analysed and synthesised to present the emerging offsite themes.

Findings

The descriptive and thematic analyses presented in this paper have identified related offsite research studies that have contributed to setting a firm foundation of the offsite concept in different construction contexts. Each of the 62 articles was examined for achieving the aim and objectives of this study, the method of data collection and coverage of offsite themes. The results of the analyses revealed that the articles mostly provide information on the offsite concept and its definitions (53 per cent) and offsite barriers and/or drivers (27 per cent). However, limited attention has been paid to the integration of lean and agile principles (13 per cent) and simulation (7 per cent) within the offsite concept, which are therefore more open to research within the offsite concept.

Research limitations/implications

The literature review highlights the main themes and components of the offsite construction concept. This forms a solid basis and motivation for researchers and practitioners to build on to enhance the uptake of the offsite concept in different contexts. This study also presents a research roadmap within the offsite concept, along with a recommendation for further research to be conducted using the research framework proposed in this study. The framework could lead to validation of using simulation to integrate lean and agile principles within the offsite concept.

Originality/value

This paper presents a systematic review of the literature related to offsite construction in different contexts. The emerging components, that is, offsite definitions, drivers and/or barriers, lean and agile principles and simulation have been highlighted and discussed thematically. A research framework that enables pursuit of the integration of lean and agile principles offsite through the lens of simulation has been proposed. The framework is expected to open up new opportunities on the effectiveness of offsite development in different contexts.
Towards research for shaping Chinese policy and selected papers
Authors: Foo Check Teck
Published: November 2016

Purpose

This paper aims to make a call for the establishment of a new research journal: a likely title for which would be Chinese Public Management. The background to this is clearly set out here for posterity’s sake. The review of selected papers unveils an emerging trend amongst Chinese researchers for undertaking deeper, cluster-based analyses. See, for example, the insights presented in this issue concerning competitiveness in China’s automobile industry.

Design/methodology/approach

A diary-like account has been made of the series of recent events that sparked the author’s interest in creating a journal to be known as Chinese Public Management. Why is there currently this focus on empirical research for public policy? From the author’s five years’ work for a serial visiting professorship across China, he has found that there are now well-established, substantial databases dedicated to the subject. Even more importantly – as this paper illustrates – a growing community of scholars has become keen to embark upon an in-depth, quantitative research. Perhaps, for the new journal, we would need an editor concentrating specifically on databases. Furthermore, undertaking scholarly work that is still of practical relevance for guiding authorities in their formulations of public policy will add a whole new dimension to the available research.

Findings

There is scope for a new endeavor that documents management research within the public sector in China. This may be seen as a sister journal for “Chinese Management Studies” that focuses on the other, much larger Chinese sector, that is, governmental organizations.

Originality/value

This paper documents the emergence of the necessity for a new journal about management in China.
The influence of localized mechanical stresses on the non-homogeneous distribution of electrical conductivity
Authors: Napieralska-Juszczak Ewa , Napieralski Piotr , Komeza Krzysztof , Zeroukhi Youcef
Published: November 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to determine the physical design parameters that influence the total resistance of a twisted conductor (cable). One of the physical parameters characterizing this type of structures is the uneven distribution of resistivity due to hardening, which is the result of stress exerted on the wires during the manufacturing process.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors have developed a method to take into account the effect of localized hardening on the inhomogeneous distribution of electrical conductivity in the distorted structures of the conductor. To achieve this goal, the authors have implemented a mechanical-electrical simulation method. The resistance characteristics have been measured as a function of mechanical stress.

Findings

As demonstrated by the results of measurements conducted on various samples and with various cable design parameters, the resistance of a given material (copper or aluminum), expressed as a function of stress, does not depend on the type of force applied. Therefore, the same characteristics may be applied to various cable designs.

Practical implications

The method presented in this paper enables more detailed investigation of the influence of particular design parameters on the total resistance of a cable. It also provides the ability to determine optimal settings of design parameters.

Originality/value

The approach is distinct from similar studies because it takes into account the deformed geometry of the conductor and the uneven distribution of the resistivity within a filament. In the literature, it is sometimes stated that the distribution of resistivity in a compacted cable is uneven, but its measurement is deemed impossible. This paper provides a method for determining such a distribution.
EV drive efficiency of traction motor considering regenerative braking according to various motor cores
Authors: Shim Hokyung , Kim Jihyun , Hong Jungpyo
Published: November 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to study the electric vehicle (EV) drive efficiency of a traction motor considering regenerative braking according to various motor cores.

Design/methodology/approach

A software program was developed to predict the driving performance of an EV. It determines the driving mileage, the required power of the traction motor, and the operation points on a torque-speed map when drive cycles are given. The driving performance is calculated from the battery capacity, vehicle specification, and efficiency map of the traction motor computed using the finite element analysis.

Findings

As a result, the motor core is a significant design variable for raising the driving mileage of an EV. It is noted that the change of electrical steels used for the motor core is the lowest priced method of increasing the driving range by 2 km.

Originality/value

The comparative analysis of motor core by replacing 35PN250 to 25PNX1250F results in improvement effects traveling 4.62 and 5.16 km farther in the Simplified Federal Urban Driving Schedule (SFUDS) and Highway Fuel Economy Driving Schedule (HWFET), respectively. It was also verified that regenerative braking system is able to enhance drive efficiency by 29-31.3 km in the SFUDS and 6.5-7.3 km in the HWFET. From comparison of price rise for increasing driving mileage by 2 km, it is noted that the change of electrical steels used for the motor core is the lowest priced method.
Numerical modelling of a flux-barrier SynchRel motor including punching effect
Authors: Lefik Marcin , Gmyrek Zbigniew
Published: November 2016

Purpose

Estimating the punching process’s impact on the operating parameters of an electrical motor is a special problem especially in the case of fractional power motors. The purpose of this paper is to discuss a method of numerical modelling that is useful for this case.

Design/methodology/approach

The proposed multi-physical FEM approach is based on using professional software in the process of modelling and determining the operating parameters of a low power motor. The basic elements of the approach are built FEM models for which the parameters characterising the damaged portions of the magnetic material were determined. The material properties of this zone were determined both by measurement and by a new analytical approach described in this paper.

Findings

The paper formulates the impact of punching on the operating parameters of a low power motor. Moreover, it formulates the analytical algorithm for the estimation of properties of material in damaged zones.

Research limitations/implications

Experimental verification will still be needed to check the model’s accuracy and applicability to various magnetic materials.

Practical implications

The paper provides an easy approach enabling the calculation of motor operating parameters and a simple and useful algorithm to estimate magnetic material properties in the damaged zone.

Originality/value

The analytical algorithm, as presented here, in conjunction with the measurement results is useful and applicable to estimating the magnetic material properties, which form the basis for accurate FEM calculation.
Effects of driving modes on permanent magnet motor electromagnetic and temperature fields at limit conditions
Authors: Qiu Hongbo , Yu Wenfei , Tang Bingxia , Li Weili , Yang Cunxiang , Wang Yanfeng
Published: November 2016

Purpose

Taking a 2,000 r/min 10 kW permanent magnet motor as an example, the purpose of this paper is to study the influence of driving modes on the performance of permanent magnet motor at limit conditions, and researched the variation mechanism of motor performance influenced by different driving modes.

Design/methodology/approach

A two-dimensional electromagnetic field model of the permanent magnet motor was established, and a rectangular-wave driving circuit was built. By using the finite element method, the electromagnetic field, current, harmonic content and eddy current loss were calculated when the motor operated at rated load and limit load. On the basis of the motor loss calculation, the temperature field of the motor operating at rated condition and limit condition was researched, and the factors that influence motor limit overload capacity were analyzed. By analyzing the motor loss variation at different load conditions, the change mechanism of the motor temperature field was determined further. Combined with the related experiments, the correctness of the above analysis was verified.

Findings

Permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM) driven by sine wave is better compared with brushless direct current motor (BLDCM) driven by rectangular wave in reducing the magnetic field harmonics, motor losses and optimizing the temperature distribution in the motor. The method driven by sine wave could improve the motor output performance including the motor efficiency and the motor overload capacity. The winding temperature is the most important factor that limits the output capability of PMSM operating for a long time. However, because of the large rotor eddy current losses, the permanent magnet temperature is the most important factor that limits the output capability of BLDCM operating for a long time.

Practical implications

The influence of driving modes on the motor magnetic field, losses and temperature distribution, efficiency and overload capacity was determined, and the influence mechanism was also analyzed. Combined with the analysis of the electromagnetic and temperature fields, the advantages of different driving modes were presented. This study could provide an important basis for the design of permanent magnet motors with different driving modes, and it also provides reference for the application of permanent magnet motor.

Originality/value

This paper presents the influence of driving modes on permanent magnet motors. The limit output capacity of the motor with different driving modes was studied, and the key factors limiting the motor output capability were obtained.
Approximations for Brillouin and its reverse function
Authors: Takacs Jeno
Published: November 2016

Purpose

The mathematical complexity of the BJ(x) Brillouin function makes it unsuitable for most calculations and its application difficult for computer programming in magnetism. Here, its approximation with the tanh function is proposed to ease the mathematical operations for most cases. The approximation works with good accuracy, acceptable in practical calculations. This approximation has already formed the foundation of the “hyperbolic model” in magnetism for the study of hysteretic phenomena. The reversal of the Brillouin function is an important but difficult mathematical problem for practical purposes. Here, a proposal has been put forward for an easy approximation using an analytical expression. This provides a good workable solution for the BJ(x)−1 function dependent on J, the angular momentum quantum number of the material used. The proposed approximation is applicable within the working range of practical applications. The paper aims to discuss these issues.

Design/methodology/approach

The multi-variant Brillouin function is closely approximated by the tanh function to ease calculations. Its mathematically unsolved reversed function is approximated by a simple analytical expression with a good working accuracy.

Findings

The Brillouin function and its reversal can be approximated for practical users mostly for professionals working in Magnetism.

Research limitations/implications

Most if not all practical problems in Magnetism can be solved within the limitations of the two approximations.

Practical implications

Both proposed functions can ease the mathematical problems faced by researchers and other users in Magnetism.

Social implications

Ease the frustration of most users working in the field of Magnetism.

Originality/value

The application of the tanh function for replacing the Brillouin function led to the creation of the hyperbolic model of hysteresis. To the author's knowledge, the reverse function was mathematically only solved in 2015 with a vastly complicated mathematics, and is hardly suitable for practical calculations in Magnetism. The proposed simple expression can be very useful for theorists and experimental scientists.
Mapping information security standard ISO 27002 to an ontological structure
Authors: Fenz Stefan , Plieschnegger Stefanie , Hobel Heidi
Published: November 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to increase the degree of automation within information security compliance projects by introducing a formal representation of the ISO 27002 standard. As information is becoming more valuable and the current businesses face frequent attacks on their infrastructure, enterprises need support at protecting their information-based assets.

Design/methodology/approach

Information security standards and guidelines provide baseline knowledge for protecting corporate assets. However, the efforts to check whether the implemented measures of an organization adhere to the proposed standards and guidelines are still significantly high.

Findings

This paper shows how the process of compliance checking can be supported by using machine-readable ISO 27002 control descriptions in combination with a formal representation of the organization’s assets.

Originality/value

The authors created a formal representation of the ISO 27002 standard and showed how a security ontology can be used to increase the efficiency of the compliance checking process.
Consumer trust in Google’s top developers’ apps: an exploratory study
Authors: Harris Mark A. , Chin Amita G.
Published: November 2016

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate Google’s top developers’ apps with trust badges to see if they warrant an additional level of trust and confidence from consumers, as stated by Google.

Design/methodology/approach

Risky app permissions and in-app purchases (IAP) from Google’s top developers and traditional developers were investigated in several Google Play top app categories, including Editor’s Choice apps. Analysis was performed between categories and developer types.

Findings

Overall, Google’s top developers’ apps request more risky permissions and IAP than do traditional developers. Other results indicate that free apps are more dangerous than paid apps and star ratings do not signify safe apps.

Research limitations/implications

Because of a limited number of Google’s top developers and Editor’s Choice apps, conclusions are drawn from a small sample of apps and not the entire market.

Practical implications

Google’s top developers’ apps are suited well for increasing revenue for Google and developers at the consumer’s expense. Consumers should be wary of top developer trust badges.

Social implications

As the lure for “top free” and “top developer” software is strong among consumers, this research contributes to societal welfare in that it makes consumers aware that Google top developer app trust badges and free apps are more dangerous than traditional developer and paid apps, as they request risky permissions at a much higher frequency. Therefore, consumers should be very careful when downloading apps that are advertised as “top free” or “top developer”.

Originality/value

Google’s top developers’ apps and Editors’ Choice apps have not been investigated from the perspective of permissions and IAP before.