bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modeling and analysis of solar air channels with attachments of different shapes
Authors: Menni Younes , Azzi Ahmed , Chamkha A.
Published: December 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to report the results of numerical analysis of turbulent fluid flow and forced-convection heat transfer in solar air channels with baffle-type attachments of various shapes. The effect of reconfiguring baffle geometry on the local and average heat transfer coefficients and pressure drop measurements in the whole domain investigated at constant surface temperature condition along the top and bottom channels’ walls is studied by comparing 15 forms of the baffle, which are simple (flat rectangular), triangular, trapezoidal, cascaded rectangular-triangular, diamond, arc, corrugated, +, S, V, double V (or W), Z, T, G and epsilon (or e)-shaped, with the Reynolds number changing from 12,000 to 32,000.

Design/methodology/approach

The baffled channel flow model is controlled by the Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes equations, besides the k-epsilon (or k-e) turbulence model and the energy equation. The finite volume method, by means of commercial computational fluid dynamics software FLUENT is used in this research work.

Findings

Over the range investigated, the Z-shaped baffle gives a higher thermal enhancement factor than with simple, triangular, trapezoidal, cascaded rectangular-triangular, diamond, arc, corrugated, +, S, V, W, T, G and e-shaped baffles by about 3.569-20.809; 3.696-20.127; 3.916-20.498; 1.834-12.154; 1.758-12.107; 7.272-23.333; 6.509-22.965; 8.917-26.463; 8.257-23.759; 5.513-18.960; 8.331-27.016; 7.520-26.592; 6.452-24.324; and 0.637-17.139 per cent, respectively. Thus, the baffle of Z-geometry is considered as the best modern model of obstacles to significantly improve the dynamic and thermal performance of the turbulent airflow within the solar channel.

Originality/value

This analysis reports an interesting strategy to enhance thermal transfer in solar air channels by use of attachments with various shapes
Body shape classification and block optimization based on space vector length
Authors: Sun Jie , Cai Qianyun , Li Tao , Du Lei , Zou Fengyuan
Published: December 2018

Purpose

Considering two-dimensional features in the body shape classification system cannot fully reflect the three-dimensional (3D) morphological characteristics of human body. The purpose of this paper is to propose a 3D feature based method to characterize and classify the upper body shape of women, and then obtained the corresponding garment block and improved the fitness of clothing.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, the [TC]23D scanner was used to obtain human data, and 15 layers of cross-sections of young females’ upper body were extracted. In total, 240 space vectors were obtained with the center of the bust cross-section as the original point. By using the principal component analysis and K-means clustering analysis, the body shape classification based on the space vectors length was realized. The garment block corresponding to three body types was obtained using the 3D scanning data and the cross-section convex hull, and compared with existing garment block and evaluated fitness of the blocks.

Findings

In total, 11 main components used to characterize the 3D morphological features of young women were obtained, which could explain 95.28 percent features of young women’s upper body. By cluster analysis, the body shape of women was divided into three categories. The block of three body types was obtained by the construction of the convex hull model.

Originality/value

This paper investigates a classification method of the body shape based on space vector length, which can effectively reflect the difference of surface shape of human body and further improve the matching degree of human body and clothing.
Digital technology, digital capability and organizational performance
Authors: Khin Sabai , Ho Theresa CF
Published: December 2018

Purpose

Despite the growing importance of digital innovation conceptualized as innovative digital solutions that enable digital transformation of businesses across industries, empirical study of factors related to digital innovation is still scant, creating a knowledge gap. To fill this gap, this paper aims to examine the effect of digital orientation and digital capability on digital innovation, and also the mediating effect of digital innovation on the link between organizational performance and digital orientation as well as digital capability.

Design/methodology/approach

This study tests a new conceptual framework using a survey data of 105 small to medium-sized IT firms in Malaysia and employing structural equation model (SEM) analysis from partial least square (PLS) approach.

Findings

The results show that digital orientation and digital capability have positive effect on digital innovation and also that digital innovation mediates the effect of technology orientation and digital capability on financial and non-financial performance.

Practical implications

The findings encourage the firms to take the opportunity of emerging digital technologies and digitalization trend in industries by being committed toward embracing new digital technologies and upgrading their digital capabilities to become innovation leaders and also to boost firms’ performance.

Originality/value

This study is one of the first studies that explain how emerging digital technologies can be leveraged to create innovative digital products and services and subsequently boost their business performance. It also fills the literature gaps related to driving factors of digital innovation and mediating role of digital innovation on the link between its driving factors and performance.
Values statements
Authors: Allison Jerry
Published: December 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to examine 611 values statements to determine if values statements contain characteristics of organizational culture as provided by Denison and Mishra (1995). The general hypothesis given is there is a relationship between values statements and culture characteristics. Four testable hypotheses, one for each of Denison and Mishra’s (1995) characteristics, are created and tested.

Design/methodology/approach

The process in testing the hypotheses had two components. First, a taxonomy of the values statements had to be determined. This involved using natural language characteristics rather than predetermined classes to create a taxonomy based on the language itself. Second, a custom dictionary for each characteristic had to be created based on Neuendorf (2017) to perform content analysis. Once the values statements were coded with a taxonomic classification and with culture characteristics, a Chi-Square test was performed to determine a relationship between the statement type and the cultural characteristic, and then a multinomial regression test was performed to determine strength and direction of the relationships.

Findings

The tests for all four hypotheses produced significant results in the Chi-Square test. The multinomial regression tests showed primarily that Business statements types often lack adaptability and stakeholder involvement cultural elements. Additionally, Religion statement types are positively related to adaptability and mission.

Research limitations/implications

This paper creates a taxonomy and supplies the rules for classification. Values statements can now be classified using those rules and the classification used in analysis. Additionally, as values statements span over organizational culture, strategic management and strategic communication, these statements become a focal point for studying multiple topics across these fields. More particularly, finding the negative relationship between the Adaptability characteristic with the Business statement type and the involvement characteristic with the Business statement type may provide a cultural explanation for many mixed result studies on organizational success.

Practical implications

Organizational culture can be displayed by way of values statements and can potentially affect organizational strategy and organizational communication. Wording is extremely important in creating a values statement, and that statement must clearly reflect the cultural values of the organization.

Originality/value

First, this paper creates a taxonomy of values statements that is far more complete than anything created before. Second, by examining language, this paper discovers a link between organizational culture, strategic management and strategic communication.
An exploration into the understanding of football value chain in south of Brazil
Authors: Serrano Rosiane , Lacerda Daniel Pacheco , Cassel Ricardo Augusto , Soares Priscila Ferraz , Piran Fabio Sartori
Published: December 2018

Purpose

Football is significant in the global economic context. However, the same significance is not identified in the value added to the chain, as the elements that make it up act in a disintegrated and independent manner with undesired effects. Consequently, it is necessary to structure the undesired effects to seek the basic causes that sustain this problematic situation. Thus, this paper aims to use a CRT to structure the undesired effects and basic causes that limit the positive economic impacts of the south Brazilian football value chain.

Design/methodology/approach

A semi-structured questionnaire was applied with questions about the existing constraints. Based on the answers in the interviews, the current reality tree was elaborated, premised on identifying the basic causes that sustain the undesirable effects detected.

Findings

Among the main results, it was identified that management problems of the traditional leaders of football clubs and federations are considered the main reason why south of Brazil football cannot fully exploit its economic potential.

Originality/value

It is evidenced that the paper shows the undesired effect that has the most impact on the development of this chain, and it is important to propose improvements to its root causes, aiming at greater efficacy of the resulting actions.
Comparative study of materials for friction pairs in a new high water-based hydraulic motor with low speed and high pressure
Authors: Qiu Bingjing , Zhao Jiyun , Man Jiaxiang
Published: December 2018

Purpose

Aiming at improving the mechanical efficiency, the applicability and the working life of high water-based hydraulic motor (HWBHM) under working conditions at low speed and high pressure, the friction performance of different matching materials for piston slipper – crankshaft pair with high water-based hydraulic fluid (HWBHF) under working conditions at low speed and high pressure – were studied.

Design/methodology/approach

The friction experiments for different materials (316L, 316L with surface coating OVINO – tetrahedral amorphous carbon [TAC; 316L-TAC] – 316L with surface coating OVINO-graphite intercalated compound [GIC; 316L-GIC] and polyetheretherketone [PEEK] reinforced with 30 per cent carbon fiber [PEEK-30CF]) under HWBHF lubrication were implemented on a pin-disk friction abrasion machine to determine the variations of coefficient of friction (CoF) and wear rate for each matching materials. In addition, the roughness and the morphology of worn surface of different matching materials were quantitatively characterized.

Findings

The study revealed that material combinations have different friction performances. Test results showed that the abrasion of matching type stainless steel (SS) and SS is rather serious, and the method of surface coating could improve the friction performance of SS when friction with other materials. For matching type of SS with surface treatment (SS-ST) and SS-ST, 316L-GIC and 316L-GIC have relatively stable CoF, and the wear rate was smaller than other matching materials, while 316L-TAC and 316L-TAC has the smaller CoF than that of 316L-GIC. Matching materials 316L-GIC with PEEK-30CF of matching type SS-ST and PEEK-30CF has more stable COF and better wear resistance than those of other matching materials.

Originality/value

This research has laid a foundation for the improvement of service life and working efficiency of friction pair in HWBHM under working conditions at low speed and high pressure.
Vibration and critical characteristics of the tilting pads journal bearing-rotor system
Authors: Zhao Zhiming , Ji Feng , Guan Yongsheng , Yuan Xiaoyang
Published: December 2018

Purpose

High power rotating machinery requires large diameter bearings that can perform under extreme conditions. Vibrations and critical speeds of rotor supported by tilting pad journal bearing (TPJBs) exceeding their design limits may cause unit failure. This paper aims to investigate the experimental technique for large diameter bearings.

Design/methodology/approach

To obtain the experimental support for rotor-bearing system design, an experiment focusing on vibration monitoring is given. The sensors arrangement, monitoring system and critical speed identification method are provided.

Findings

By using test bench in factory unit, a large amount of vibrations data of different working situations is obtained. In addition, a method named non-excitation identification for critical speed is proposed. The critical speed of rotor identified through vibration data is given. The theoretical calculation results are also presented.

Originality/value

The basis for rotor-bearing system design can be obtained through comparisons between the experimental results and the theoretical calculation data.
Effect of form errors on oil film characteristics of hydrodynamic journal bearings based on small displacement torsor theory
Authors: Ma Xun , Xu Wubin , Zhang Xueping , Yang Fuyong
Published: December 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate how form error of journal affects oil film characteristics, which are composed of several parameters including the maximum film pressure, film moment, frictional coefficient and carrying-load capacity.

Design/methodology/approach

A new generalized equation based on the small displacement torsor theory is derived, as well as its capability of representing types of form error on the journal, using four specified parameters in a three-dimensional (3D) state. Based on the new generalized equation of form errors, the Reynolds equation is represented and solved numerically using the Swift–Stieber boundary condition.

Findings

The results show that the form errors of journal have significant influence on all oil film characteristics. However, the film moment remains nearly unchanged as film characteristics, especially eccentricity ratio, become large. All film characteristics investigated vary periodically as the form error. More importantly, it is found that the film pressure distribution transforms to an asymmetric shape along the axial direction of the bearing, no longer a symmetric shape in the case of two-dimensional (2D) form errors. It is necessary to substitute the 3D form error model, which takes the variations of the film characteristics in axial direction into account, for the 2D model in the designing stage of journal bearings.

Originality/value

First, the effect of the form error of the journal on the performance of hydrodynamic journal bearings is studied in the view of the film characteristics systematically. Secondly, the new generalized equation of form error, derived by SDT theory, is capable of representing any types of form error on the journal, not only representing one type of form error merely.
Resource-efficient piston ring/cylinder liner pairing
Authors: Risse Konstantin , Schorgel Matthias , Bartel Dirk , Karpuschewski Bernhard , Welzel Florian
Published: December 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the influence of different finish processes on the surface integrity and tribological behaviour of cylinder running surfaces for internal combustion engines.

Design/methodology/approach

The cutting force during finishing and the resulting surface topography was measured for a variety of cylinder running surfaces made of EN-GJL-250, EN-GJV-400 and thermal sprayed aluminium alloy. A separate conditioning tool was developed and tested. Different analysis methods (SEM, EDX, SIMS and FIB) for the characterisation of the boundary conditions were used. By an oscillating friction wear test and a single cylinder floating liner engine, the running-in and frictional behaviour was rated.

Findings

It was shown that honing with low cutting forces and silicon carbide cutting material decreases the friction in operation. The characteristics of the boundary layers after running-in depend on the finish machining process. A preconditioning with a separate tool can adjust the boundary layer and running-in behaviour. Based on the experimental results, a multi-body and computational fluid dynamics simulation was developed for the floating liner engine.

Originality/value

The results demonstrate the potential of finishing with low process forces to reduce friction and the need for a complete consideration of the tribological system piston ring/cylinder liner surface.
The stick-slip mechanism for granular flow lubrication
Authors: Meng Fanjing , Liu Kun
Published: December 2018

Purpose

Granular flow lubrication is developed in recent years as a new lubrication method which can be used in extreme environments, while the stick-slip mechanisms of granular flow lubrication are an urgent obstacle remains unsolved in fully establishing the granular flow lubrication theory.

Design/methodology/approach

A granular flow lubrication research model is constructed by the discrete element method. Using this numerical model, the mesoscopic and macroscopic responses of stick-slip that influenced by the shear velocity, and the influence of the shear velocity and the normal pressure on the vertical displacement are studied.

Findings

Research results show that movement states of granular flow lubrication medium gradually transform from the stick-slip state to the sliding state with increased shear velocity, in which these are closely related to the fluctuations of force chains and friction coefficients between granules. The stick-slip phenomenon comes up at lower shear velocity prior to the appearance of granular lift-off between the two friction pair, which comes up at higher shear velocity. Higher normal pressure restrains the dilatation of the granular flow lubrication medium, which in turn causes a decrease in the displacement.

Originality/value

These findings reveal the stick-slip mechanism of granular flow lubrication and can also offer the helpful reference for the design of the new granular lubrication bearing.
Applications of intelligent computing in vehicular networks
Authors: Tian Daxin , Gong Weiqiang , Liu Wenhao , Duan Xuting , Zhu Yukai , Liu Chao , Li Xin
Published: December 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to introduce vehicular network platform, routing and broadcasting methods and vehicular positioning enhancement technology, which are three aspects of the applications of intelligent computing in vehicular networks. From this paper, the role of intelligent algorithm in the field of transportation and the vehicular networks can be understood.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper, the authors introduce three different methods in three layers of vehicle networking, which are data cleaning based on machine learning, routing algorithm based on epidemic model and cooperative localization algorithm based on the connect vehicles.

Findings

In Section 2, a novel classification-based framework is proposed to efficiently assess the data quality and screen out the abnormal vehicles in database. In Section 3, the authors can find when traffic conditions varied from free flow to congestion, the number of message copies increased dramatically and the reachability also improved. The error of vehicle positioning is reduced by 35.39% based on the CV-IMM-EKF in Section 4. Finally, it can be concluded that the intelligent computing in the vehicle network system is effective, and it will improve the development of the car networking system.

Originality/value

This paper reviews the research of intelligent algorithms in three related areas of vehicle networking. In the field of vehicle networking, these research results are conducive to promoting data processing and algorithm optimization, and it may lay the foundation for the new methods.
Intellectual capital management among Italian non-profit socio-cooperatives
Authors: Benevene Paula , Kong Eric , Lucchesi Massimiliano , Cortini Michela
Published: December 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to deepen the knowledge on the role played by the intellectual capital (IC) of small and medium non-profit socio-cooperatives (SMSCs) in generating knowledge and organisational growth, as well as on the challenges and the difficulties of the management of IC among these organisations.

Design/methodology/approach

This exploratory study adopted a qualitative methodology. A total of 70 semi-structured interviews were conducted with senior managers of Italian non-profit SMSCs, asking them to talk about the management of their human capital, organisational capital and relational capital. The data gathered from the interviews were analysed through discourse analysis carried out by two independent judges.

Findings

IC management among Italian non-profit SMSCs is unplanned, unsystematic and short-termed. The SMSCs in question adopt an employee-centred approach; their IC management and knowledge creation are more focused on the direct contribution of the organisational members, than on the endorsement of formal or structured procedures and processes. Owing to their social aim, the well-being of both the workers and the beneficiaries of the SMSCs plays a central role in the IC management. Relationships with external stakeholders are regarded as important as those with the internal ones, re-affirming the organisations’ members as the core of the knowledge generation.

Research limitations/implications

The group reached is not a statistically representative sample; furthermore, it is limited to Italy.

Social/implications

Deepening the knowledge on IC among these organisations can help to promote the strengths and address the weaknesses of its management, whilst also helping these micro-enterprises to develop into SMEs.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to the IC literature by shedding light on the role played by IC among small and medium enterprise (SMEs), and more specifically in the specific context of Italian SMSCs. To the authors’ knowledge, no previous research has thus far dealt with this issue. Deepening the knowledge on IC among these organisations can help to promote the strengths and address the weaknesses of its management, while also helping these micro-enterprises to develop into SMEs.
Dividend policy determinants of Sri Lankan firms: a triangulation approach
Authors: Baker H. Kent , Dewasiri N. Jayantha , Yatiwelle Koralalage Weerakoon Banda , Azeez Athambawa Abdul
Published: December 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to identify the dividend policy determinants of Sri Lankan firms and why they pay dividends.

Design/methodology/approach

The study uses several quantitative approaches to investigate dividend determinants using market (secondary) data of 190 Sri Lankan firms and 1,330 firm-year observations. Dividend determinants are also identified using survey (primary) data from 141 of the 190 firms. Triangulation is then used to facilitate validation of the data through cross-verification from two data sources.

Findings

Analysis of the market data reveals that firm size, industry impact, corporate governance, free cash flow, earnings, past dividends, profitability, investment opportunities, net working capital, concentrated ownership structure and investor preference represent the most important dividend determinants. Survey data confirm these findings. The evidence supports the pecking order, signaling, free cash flow, catering and outcome theories using both secondary and primary data and the bird-in-the-hand theory using survey data.

Research limitations/implications

The findings are useful not only for corporate decision makers in establishing an appropriate dividend policy but also for shareholders in making investment decisions. Because the current study is limited to Sri Lanka, future researchers should study the same phenomenon in other countries using the triangulation approach.

Originality/value

This study provides a hybrid approach to dividend policy research by using both primary and secondary data in a single study. It is the first dividend study in Sri Lanka to use a triangulation approach.
Winning CSR strategies for the talent war
Authors: Srisuphaolarn Patnaree , Assarut Nuttapol
Published: December 2018

Purpose

The authors analyze the relationship between perceptions of corporate social responsibility (CSR) activity bundles and prospective employees’ work values to assess how CSR strategies contribute to new staff recruiting strategies.

Design/methodology/approach

Building on personal and organizational value fit theory, the authors propose a positive correlation between facets of work values and particular CSR activities. We use work values, as they reflect personal values, and CSR activities to reflect organizational value. We test this relationship using a sample of senior marketing and international business majors.

Findings

The authors found that the relationships are threefold: all negative, all positive and selectively positive. Some viewed CSR as irrelevant to their choice of employer – those who focused on security and pride, with low degrees of other work values, and those who were concerned with growth and knowledge utilization. People who seek security and meaningful jobs hold preferable attitudes toward CSR, regardless of the areas of CSR. Selectively positive relationship between work values and CSR bundles was founded in those who seek meaningful jobs and the workplaces for which they feel proud to work.

Practical implications

This paper contributes to better understanding of the influence of CSR on prospective employees over preferences for companies as ideal employers. CSR matters, but not to everyone. Those who perceive that CSR matters are more active regarding work. This study links two topics – personal values through work values, and organizational values through CSR – opening a new area for investigating the effects of CSR on human resource management (HRM).

Originality/value

This study identifies why CSR is attractive to potential employees by using person-value and organizational-value fit theory to elaborate on a company’s social performance through CSR perceptions. No study links these two topics, which examine the same results. Research suggests that fit between personal and organizational values leads to job satisfaction, and thus a tendency to select a specific employer. CSR literature suggests that a company’s reputation gained by engaging in CSR attracts talent. By classifying talent according to work values and mapping them with CSR bundles, the authors argue that there is relationship between types of talent and CSR bundles.
Corporate governance and financial performance for engaging socially and environmentally responsible practices
Authors: Fiandrino Simona , Devalle Alain , Cantino Valter
Published: December 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to reconcile the conflicting understanding on the nexus between corporate governance (CG), corporate financial performance (CFP) and corporate social responsibility (CSR) by investigating how companies engage with CSR practices.

Design/methodology/approach

The study carries out a multivariate linear regression analysis on a sample of 361 listed companies from five countries in Europe: France, Germany, Italy, Spain and the UK.

Findings

CG mechanisms and CFP have an impact on CSR because they affect social and environmental practices strongly and significantly. Furthermore, the findings describe the capacity of CSR to influence both the CG structure and the CFP.

Research limitations/implications

The present research limits the analysis on the social and environmental performance of companies that communicate their commitment to stakeholders without distinguishing between “greenwashing” companies that implement CSR to improve corporate reputation and those companies that pursue effective societal benefits, taking care of stakeholder relationships.

Practical implications

The CSR approach can drive the CG structure and improve CFP if managers perceive the implementation of sustainable practices as an integrated process rather than a mere outcome.

Originality/value

This paper seeks to disentangle the nexus between CG, CFP and CSR, not yet precisely defined by scholars in the context of five countries in Europe.
Innovation capacity building
Authors: Brix Jacob
Published: December 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to propose how a bottom-up creation of an ambidextrous organization can be enabled. By integrating research on “contextual ambidexterity” and “individual and organizational capacity building”, an “innovation capacity building” framework is conceptualized that suggests how balance between exploration and exploitation can be maintained.

Design/methodology/approach

The study is conceptual. As no data are utilized, focus is on discussing the links between the two theoretical perspectives and the advantages of the proposed innovation capacity building framework.

Findings

The innovation capacity building framework discusses the influence, both positive and negative, of the local organizational context for ambidexterity, and the interactions required such as feedback between the management team and the employees so they together can build an ambidextrous working culture. A culture in which it is the individual employee that is responsible for switching between activities related to exploration and exploitation and where the management team empowers the employees to do so.

Originality/value

This study focuses on contextual ambidexterity and how contextual ambidexterity can be implemented as a way of working in contemporary organizations. The originality lies in the proposed framework and in the dedicated focus on “how” ambidexterity can be implemented in organizations.
Interlinking Lean and sustainability: how ready are leaders?
Authors: Mårtensson Anna , Snyder Kristen , Ingelsson Pernilla
Published: December 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the evidence of interlinkages between Lean and sustainability among organisational leaders in the early stages of Lean implementation.

Design/methodology/approach

A multiple-site case study was conducted to study the connections between Lean and sustainable development during the implementation stages of a Lean practice. In-depth interviews were conducted with managers about their knowledge and understanding of the interlinkages between Lean and sustainable development. The findings were then used as an analytic frame to determine whether these interlinkages were present in the organisation.

Findings

Evidence of interlinkages between Lean and sustainable development was found; however, their presence was incomplete and inconsistent across clinics.

Research limitations/implications

Insights from the research can help organisations plan for the implementation of Lean practice, particularly when a sub-goal is to achieve sustainable development.

Originality/value

The study shows the importance of focussing on managers’ knowledge and understanding of the interlinkages between Lean and sustainable development when implementing Lean in order to utilise Lean’s full potential to achieve sustainability.
A Novel Application of a Cryosectioning Technique to Aid Scat Hair Microanalysis
Authors: Mandoreba Talia Y. , Cloete Karen J. , Minnis‐Ndimba Roya , Kupika Olga L.
Published: December 2018

Scat hair presents a diverse profile of hairs for morphological assessment that may find versatile applications in wildlife forensic investigations. Successful morphological assessment of scat hair microstructure, however, depends on a robust sectioning methodology. We assessed the feasibility and efficacy of a cryosectioning technique compared to that of a gold standard hand‐sectioning technique. Scat hairs were embedded in paraffin wax and hand‐sectioned, while cryopreserved scat hairs were sectioned with a cryostat. The results showed that cryosectioning preserved the pristine morphology of the scat hair and provided cross sections more amenable to high‐resolution imaging of hair internal microstructure than hand‐sectioning. The cryosectioning technique may find novel applications as a more reliable and robust technique to aid (i) scat hair internal microstructure analysis for cross‐referencing with species identification keys in wildlife forensic studies and (ii) downstream toxicological analysis in wildlife forensic studies as hair biochemistry is not altered during cryopreservation.
Circulating tumor cells in the pulmonary vein increase significantly after lobectomy: A prospective observational study
Authors: Duan Xinchun , Zhu Yujie , Cui Yong , Yang Zhenrong , Zhou Shijie , Han Yi , Yu Daping , Xiao Ning , Cao Xiaoqing , Li Yunsong , Liu Shuku , Wang Zitong , Zhang Wen , Feng Lin , Zhang Kaitai , Shou Jianzhong , Liu Zhidong , Xu Shaofa
Published: December 2018

Background

It has been reported that there are more circulating tumor cells (CTCs) in the pulmonary vein (PV) than in the peripheral blood; however, it is unclear whether the CTC count changes in the PV after resection of a lung lobe.

Methods

Thirty‐three lung cancer patients were recruited for the study, including 17 who underwent lobectomy via video‐assisted thoracoscopic surgery and 16 via open thoracotomy. Sixty‐six blood specimens were sampled from the PV before the PV was interrupted and after lobectomy. The CTCs were quantified using the oHSV1‐hTERT‐GFP method.

Results

Before PV interruption, the CTC (pre‐CTC) detection rate was 79.0% (26/33), the mean number of CTCs was 3.36 (median 2, range: 0–18), and there was no significant relationship between the pre‐CTC count and clinical factors, such as histologic findings and pathological T stage (P > 0.05). After lobectomy, the CTC (post‐CTC) detection rate was 100% (33/33), the average number of CTCs was 14.88 (median 11, range: 1–69), and the post‐CTC count was significantly higher in patients in whom the PV was interrupted prior to the pulmonary artery (PA) than in patients in whom the PA was interrupted before the PV (P = 0.016). Overall, the CTC count was significantly higher following surgery (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Post‐CTC counts were significantly higher than pre‐CTC counts, suggesting that surgical manipulation may potentially dislodge tumor cells into the PV. Interrupting the PV prior to the PA during lobectomy may prevent partial CTC entry into the circulation.
Rapidly growing pleural liposarcoma masquerading as extrapleural hematoma
Authors: Lin Chia‐Jung , Chou Shah‐Hwa , Yang Sheau‐Fang , Kao Chieh‐Ni , Chang Po‐Chih , Liu Yu‐Wei
Published: December 2018

Intrathoracic liposarcoma can occur in the lung, mediastinum, pleura, and chest wall, and tends to remain clinically silent until becoming large enough to displace adjacent structures. Treatment usually includes sufficient surgical resection followed when necessary by adjuvant chemoradiotherapy. We report a case of an uncommon presentation of a rapidly growing pleural liposarcoma, the diagnosis of which may have been obscured by coexisting thoracic trauma with suspected extrapleural hematoma.
The association between attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and general anaesthesia ‐ a narrative review
Authors: Xu L. , Hu Y. , Huang L. , Liu Y. , Wang B. , Xie L. , Hu Z.
Published: December 2018

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is a chronic neurodevelopmental disorder, manifesting primarily as attention deficit, hyperactivity and impulsive behaviour. General anaesthetics can be neurotoxic, affecting neuronal differentiation and synaptogenesis, which can lead to abnormalities of cognition, learning and behaviour. We hypothesise that exposure of the immature brain to general anaesthetics predisposes to the development of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. In this review, we summarise clinical and animal studies that relate attention deficit hyperactivity disorder to general anaesthesia, by actions on neural molecular mechanisms and neural networks. We also describe potential therapeutic approaches to modulate these effects.
The developing world of pre‐operative optimisation: a systematic review of Cochrane reviews
Authors: du Toit L. , Bougard H. , Biccard B. M.
Published: December 2018

Pre‐operative optimisation is a heterogenous group of interventions aimed at improving peri‐operative outcomes. To understand the evidence for pre‐operative optimisation in the developing world, we systematically reviewed Cochrane reviews on the topic according to the Human Developmental Index (HDI) of the country where patient recruitment occurred. We used summary statistics and cartograms to describe the HDI, year of publication, timing of pre‐operative intervention and risk of bias associated with each included trial. We assessed the impact of multinational trials on the risk of bias introduced by countries of differing HDI. Four‐hundred and nine trials representing 51 countries and 89,389 randomly allocated participants were summarised in this review. Four‐hundred and nineteen out of 451 (93%) trial populations (i.e. a group of study participants from one country) were from high and very high HDI countries. The median (IQR [range]) HDI of countries were 0.862 (0.806–0.892 [0.445–0.949]). Three of the 409 included trials were multinational, representing 32 countries and 37,736 out of 89,389 (42.2%) included participants. Africa was the least represented continent, with only 4 included trials and 566 participants, of which 62.3% were from one multinational trial. The overall risk of bias was high or unclear in 381 out of 409 (93%) trials. Inclusion of multinational trials decreased the proportion of trial populations introducing high or unclear risk of bias by 9.4% (95%CI 5.1–13.7; p < 0.0001). Half of the world's population live in low‐ and middle‐HDI countries. This population is poorly represented in systematically reviewed evidence on pre‐operative optimisation. Multinational trials increase the knowledge contribution from low‐ and middle‐HDI countries and decrease risk of bias in systematic reviews.
In vitro evaluation of Capiox FX05 and RX05 oxygenators in neonatal cardiopulmonary bypass circuits with varying venous reservoir and vacuum‐assisted venous drainage levels
Authors: Sathianathan Shyama , Nasir Rafay , Wang Shigang , Kunselman Allen R. , Ündar Akif
Published: December 2018

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the hemodynamic properties and microemboli capture associated with different vacuum‐assisted venous drainage (VAVD) vacuum levels and venous reservoir levels in a neonatal cardiopulmonary bypass circuit. Trials were conducted in 2 parallel circuits to compare the performance of Capiox Baby RX05 oxygenator with separate AF02 arterial filter to Capiox FX05 oxygenator with integrated arterial filter. Arterial cannula flow rate to the patient was held at 500 mL/min and temperature maintained at 32°C, while VAVD vacuum levels (0 mm Hg, −15 mm Hg, −30 mm Hg, −45 mm Hg, −60 mm Hg) and venous reservoir levels (50 mL, 200 mL) were evaluated in both oxygenators. Hemodynamic parameters measuring flow, pressure, and total hemodynamic energy were made in real time using a custom‐made data acquisition system and Labview software. Nearly 10 cc bolus of air was injected into the venous line and gaseous microemboli detected using an Emboli Detection and Classification Quantifier. Diverted blood flow via the arterial filter’s purge line and mean pressures increased with increasing VAVD levels (P < 0.01). Mean pressures were lower with lower venous reservoir levels and were greater in RX05 groups compared to FX05 (P < 0.01). Microemboli detected at the preoxygenator site increased with higher VAVD vacuum levels and lower venous reservoir levels (P < 0.01). The amount of microemboli captured by the FX05 oxygenator with integrated arterial filter was greater than by the RX05 oxygenator alone, although both oxygenators were able to clear microemboli before reaching the pseudo‐patient.
Visual acuity after cataract surgery in patients with optic neuropathies
Authors: Aggarwal Sahil , Knight Darren K. , Shumway Caleb L. , Wade Matthew , Crow Robert W.
Published: December 2018

Purpose

To compare visual acuity outcomes of cataract surgery between patients with and without non‐glaucomatous optic neuropathies.

Methods

Retrospective case‐control study of patients with and without optic neuropathies who underwent cataract surgery from 2010 to 2017. For all eyes, the last preoperative best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and first BCVA greater than 1 month postoperatively (to ensure sustained refractive stabilization) were recorded in logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution (logMAR) units.

Results

Thirty patients (42 eyes) with optic neuropathies and 30 control patients (42 eyes) underwent uncomplicated cataract surgery. The mean age at surgery was significantly younger in the optic neuropathy group (64 versus 71.2 years, p < 0.01). The mean improvement in visual acuity in the optic neuropathy group was 0.4 ± 0.6 logMAR units (roughly 4 Snellen lines) from 0.7 ± 0.8 units preoperatively to 0.3 ± 0.5 postoperatively. Between the cases and controls, there was no significant difference in preoperative BCVA (p = 0.48), postoperative BCVA (p = 0.42), or the mean improvement in BCVA (p = 0.82). When stratified by optic neuropathy subtype, patients with optic neuropathies secondary to multiple sclerosis (n = 12) or non‐arteritic ischaemic optic neuropathy (n = 11) had significant improvement in BCVA postoperatively (p < 0.01 and p = 0.03, respectively).

Conclusion

Contrary to what may be expected from such a severe ocular comorbidity, our data suggest that the mean BCVA improvement after cataract surgery in patients with non‐glaucomatous optic neuropathies was comparable to that of control patients. Cataract surgery may be performed in patients with both optic neuropathies and advanced cataracts with a reasonable preoperative expectation that visual acuity improvement can be significant.
Better visual outcome at 1 year with antivascular endothelial growth factor treatment according to treat‐and‐extend compared with pro re nata in eyes with neovascular age‐related macular degeneration
Authors: Aurell Sandra , Sjövall Kersti , Paul Anna , Morén Åsa , Granstam Elisabet
Published: December 2018

Purpose

To evaluate treatment outcome at 12 months in eyes with neovascular age‐related macular degeneration (nAMD) treated with antivascular endothelial growth factor (anti‐VEGF) injections according to either pro re nata (PRN)‐ or treat‐and‐extend (TE)‐regimen in one clinical setting in Sweden.

Methods

Data were obtained retrospectively from the Swedish Macula Register, optical coherence tomography‐database and electronic patient charts. The study included 443 eyes; 223 PRN‐ and 220 TE‐treated eyes. Baseline (BL) characteristics and follow‐up data at 6 and 12 months were collected. Statistical regression analysis was performed to evaluate association between treatment strategy and visual outcome at 12 months.

Results

Baseline (BL) characteristics were well balanced between cohorts. Visual acuity at 12 months was higher in TE‐cohort 66.5 (13.1) compared to PRN‐cohort 60.1 (17.6) (p = 0.000). Visual improvement at 12 months was +5.2 (11.8) and +1.2 (12.7) letters Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study (ETDRS) in TE‐ and PRN‐cohorts, respectively (p = 0.002). Number of administered injections at 12 months was 10.2 (2.1) and 6.3 (2.1) in the two cohorts (p = 0.000). Statistical analysis demonstrated a strong association between TE treatment strategy and improvement in visual acuity at 12 months.

Conclusion

Eyes treated according to TE had better visual outcome at 12 months. The results indicate that treatment according to proactive TE‐regimen is superior to treatment according to PRN‐regimen in clinical routine care of nAMD.
Consuming milk cereal drinks at one year of age was associated with a twofold risk of being overweight at the age of five
Authors: Almquist‐Tangen Gerd , Bergman Stefan , Dahlgren Jovanna , Lindholm Annelie , Roswall Josefine , Alm Bernt
Published: December 2018

Aim

We previously reported that consuming milk cereal drinks at six months of age was associated with a high body mass index (BMI) at 12 and 18 months. This study examined the association between daily consumption at 12 months of age and BMI at the age of five.

Methods

We followed up 1870/2666 (70%) children recruited at birth in 2007–2008 for the Swedish longitudinal population‐based Halland Health and Growth Study a mean of 5.09 ± 0.28 years. Feeding practices were obtained from parental questionnaires, and anthropometric data were collected by child health nurses.

Results

At five years, 11.6% were overweight and 2.3% were obese. Milk cereal drinks were consumed by about 85% and 10% at one and five years of age, respectively. Consumption at 12 months was associated with almost double the risk of being overweight at five years of age (adjusted odds ratio 1.94, 95% confidence interval 1.08–3.50). Other risk factors were a family history of obesity, low paternal educational level and paternal smoking.

Conclusion

Consuming milk cereal drinks daily at 12 months was associated with a twofold risk of being overweight at five years. These findings may affect the counselling guidelines used at child healthcare centres.
INFRASTRUCTURE INVESTMENT – THE EMERGENT PPP EQUITY MARKET
Authors: WHITFIELD Dexter , SMYTH Stewart
Published: December 2018

Increasingly governments are looking to private sector actors to invest in infrastructure projects. An emergent mechanism for such investment is the market in PPP equity. This is an aspect of PPPs that has to date had little empirical attention. This paper reports on the size and scope of the market in PPP equity sales within the UK. In the process, the nature of PPP projects and the existing rationales for the policy are critiqued. The paper concludes by laying out a number of potential research agendas focused on PPP equity sales including a call for reassessing theoretical perspectives.
Transformation of China’s Development Model under Xi Jinping and its Implications for Russian Exports
Authors: Makarov Igor , Stepanov Ilya , Kashin Vasily
Published: December 2018

The article focuses on the main factors underlying the structural transformation of China’s economic model under Xi Jinping and its implications for Sino‐Russian economic cooperation and Russian merchandise exports. Russian exports to China are analyzed in the context of major changes in the volume and structure of China's aggregate demand. The results show that the rebalancing of the Chinese economy would bring some risks to Russia in the short and medium terms through putting downward pressure on its exports of natural resources (except for natural gas). At the same time, it would open new opportunities for industries producing resource‐intensive consumer goods and, therefore, gives Russia an opportunity for diversification of its economy in the longer term. In order to derive benefits from China’s transformation, Russia should shift the focus of its export policy from negotiating politically driven large projects toward more intensive promotion of consumer goods exports.