bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fairness in the Contract of Employment
Authors: Sanders Astrid
Published: July 2017

Many labour law scholars in the UK are disillusioned with recent judicial decisions by the House of Lords and Supreme Court on the contract of employment. The argument made in this article is that, although there are good reasons for disillusionment with the Johnson v Unisys progeny, there have nevertheless been potentially some very positive developments for employees in recent decisions. On procedural fairness, the High Court has read in principles of ‘natural justice’ to the employment contract, whereas both High Court and Court of Appeal decisions seem to see courts intervening, at least in some areas, in the employment relation also on the grounds of substantive fairness. It is suggested here that these recent cases are evidence of a nascent duty of ‘fairness’ in the contract of employment, and the case is made for explicit recognition of, and development of, this duty. A practical application is provided, to finish, with the topical phenomenon of so-called ‘zero hours contracts’.
Disparities in the Management of Ectopic Pregnancy
Authors: Hsu Jennifer Y. , Chen Ling , Gumer Arielle R. , Tergas Ana I. , Hou June Y. , Burke William M. , Ananth Cande V. , Hershman Dawn L. , Wright Jason D.
Published: July 2017

(Abstracted from Am J Obstet Gynecol 2017; DOI:10.1016/j.ajog.2017.03.001)

Ectopic pregnancy commonly occurs among young women. Its incidence varies between 1% and 2%.
Practice Preferences for Glaucoma Surgery: A Survey of the American Glaucoma Society
Authors: Vinod Kateki , Gedde Steven J. , Feuer William J. , Panarelli Joseph F. , Chang Ta C. , Chen Philip P. , Parrish Richard K.
Published: July 2017

Purpose:

The purpose of this study is to assess surgical practice patterns among the American Glaucoma Society (AGS) membership.

Methods:

An anonymous online survey evaluating the use of glaucoma surgeries in various clinical settings was redistributed to AGS members. Survey responses were compared with prior results from 1996, 2002, and 2008 to determine shifts in surgical practice patterns. Questions were added to assess the preferred approach to primary incisional glaucoma surgery and phacoemulsification combined with glaucoma surgery.

Results:

A total of 252 of 1091 (23%) subscribers to the AGS-net participated in the survey. Percentage use (mean±SD) of trabeculectomy with mitomycin C (MMC), glaucoma drainage device (GDD), and minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS) as an initial surgery in patients with primary open angle glaucoma was 59%±30%, 23%±23%, and 14%±20%, respectively. Phacoemulsification cataract extraction alone was the preferred surgical approach in 44%±32% of patients with primary open angle glaucoma and visually significant cataract, and phacoemulsification cataract extraction was combined with trabeculectomy with MMC in 24%±23%, with MIGS in 22%±27%, and with GDD in 9%±14%. Although trabeculectomy was selected most frequently to surgically manage glaucoma in 8 of 8 clinical settings in 1996, GDD was preferred in 7 of 8 clinical settings in 2016.

Conclusions:

The use of GDD has increased and that of trabeculectomy has concurrently decreased over the past 2 decades. Trabeculectomy with MMC is the most popular primary incisional surgery when performed alone or in combination with phacoemulsification cataract extraction. Surgeons frequently manage coexistent cataract and glaucoma with cataract extraction alone, rather than as a combined cataract and glaucoma procedure.
Development and Validation of a Modular Endoscopic Ear Surgery Skills Trainer
Authors: Dedmon Matthew M. , O’Connell Brendan P. , Kozin Elliott D. , Remenschneider Aaron K. , Barber Samuel R. , Lee Daniel J. , Labadie Robert F. , Rivas Alejandro
Published: July 2017

Objective:

Endoscopic ear surgery (EES) is an emerging technique requiring single-handed dissection with limited depth perception. Current options for EES simulation and training are limited. Herein, we introduce a versatile, low-cost surgical skills trainer that aims to improve the fine motor control necessary for EES.

Study Design:

Prospective validation study.

Setting:

Surgical simulation laboratory.

Participants:

Seven subjects ranging in experience from medical students (“Novices”) to experienced ear surgeons (“Experts”) participated in the validation study. Experts (n = 3) were defined as performing >10 EES cases per year.

Methods:

The skills trainer was constructed from a 3” diameter polyvinyl chloride pipe cap modified with two ports for instrument passage. A wooden platform was placed inside at an appropriate working distance for ear surgery. Eight interchangeable skills modules were fabricated on wooden squares (3 cm × 3 cm) using materials such as #19 wire brads, 1.6 mm glass beads, and 26-gauge jewelry wire. The material cost of this reusable model was $15. Subjects completed each skills module in triplicate, followed by a Likert-based survey.

Results:

Expert performance was superior to novices in 100% (8/8) of skills modules, i.e., threading beads on a wire (43 versus 127 s,p < 0.001) and placing a simulated prosthesis (13 versus 68 s,p = 0.01). Most participants (86%) agreed the trainer orientation was accurate and all participants (100%) were satisfied with the experience.

Conclusions:

This low-cost modular task trainer may help fill a void in otologic training by allowing efficient, deliberate practice of validated exercises designed to improve fine motor control with EES instrumentation.
Membrane lipids and cell signaling
Authors: Sunshine Hannah , Iruela-Arispe Maria Luisa
Published: July 2017

Purpose of review

Reception and transmission of signals across the plasma membrane has been a function generally attributed to transmembrane proteins. In the last 3 years, however, a growing number of reports have further acknowledged important contributions played by membrane lipids in the process of signal transduction.

Recent findings

In particular, the constituency of membrane lipids can regulate how proteins with SH2 domains and molecules like K-Ras expose their catalytic domains to the cytosol and interact with effectors and second messengers. Recent reports have also shown that the degree of saturation of phospholipids can reduce the activation of certain G-protein-coupled receptors, and signaling downstream to Toll-like receptor 4 with consequences to nuclear factor kappa B activation and inflammation. Levels of specific gangliosides in the membrane were reported to activate integrins in a cell-autonomous manner affecting tumor cell migration. Furthermore, high resolution of the association of cholesterol with the smoothened receptor has clarified its participation in sonic hedgehog signaling. These are some of the key advancements that have further propelled our understanding of the broad versatile contributions of membrane lipids in signal transduction.

As we gain definitive detail regarding the impact of lipid–protein interactions and their consequences to cell function, the options for therapeutic targeting expand with the possibility of greater specificity.
Advances in midface reconstruction: beyond the reconstructive ladder
Authors: Eskander Antoine , Kang Stephen Y. , Teknos Theodoros N. , Old Matthew O.
Published: July 2017

Purpose of review

This article reviews the anatomy and function of the midface, defect classifications and the breadth of common and novel reconstructive techniques including medical modeling, dental splints, and dental rehabilitation.

Recent findings

Historically many classification systems for midface and maxillary defects exist but most defects are unique and an individualized approach is required. There has been an increased interest in using regional pedicled flaps with bone for reconstruction. Free flap reconstruction with the osteocutaneous radial forearm and fibula flap have been recently modified to increase the success of osseointegrated implants. Scapular free flap reconstruction has become increasingly popular because of the versatility, good bony contour match, and long pedicle length with the scapular tip flap. Dental splints are more cost effective than medical modeling and cutting guides but both techniques are complimentary in complex reconstruction.

Midface reconstruction is a unique and challenging surgery demonstrated by the numerous classification systems and techniques available to reconstruct. Recent developments have further augmented these challenging reconstructions.
Can Exchange Transfusion Normalize Serum Levels of Copper, Zinc, and Magnesium in Severe Neonatal Hyperbilirubinemia?
Authors: Abdel Aziz Reem A. , El-Mazary Abdel-Azeem M. , Saidii Ahmed A.
Published: July 2017

Background:

Neonatal hyperbilirubinemia is a frequently encountered problem. Erythrocytes, especially reticulocytes are rich in copper (Cu) and magnesium (Mg) so its serum levels increase after hemolysis. Zinc (Zn) plays an important role in synthesis of some enzymes included in the bilirubin metabolism and may cause hemolysis. Exchange transfusion is the main treatment for severe neonatal hyperbilirubinemia but can exchange transfusion affect the previous trace elements.

Materials and Methods:

We measured Cu, Zn, and Mg serum levels in full-term neonates admitted to neonatal intensive care unit of Minia University hospital with severe indirect hyperbilirubinemia before and after exchange transfusion.

Results:

There were significant higher serum Cu and Mg and lower Zn serum levels in neonates with hyperbilirubinemia than controls and their levels were significantly normalized after exchange transfusion. Significant positive correlations between the total bilirubin levels and hemoglobin, Cu and Mg serum levels and significant negative correlations with Zn levels were present. There were no significant correlations between maternal and neonatal serum levels of any of them.

Conclusions:

Exchange transfusion can normalize the significant higher Cu and Mg and lower Zn serum levels in neonates with severe indirect hyperbilirubinemia which were not related to their maternal serum levels.
Core Outcome Domains for Clinical Trials on Somatic Symptom Disorder, Bodily Distress Disorder, and Functional Somatic Syndromes: European Network on Somatic Symptom Disorders Recommendations
Authors: Rief Winfried , Burton Chris , Frostholm Lisbeth , Henningsen Peter , Kleinstäuber Maria , Kop Willem J. , Löwe Bernd , Martin Alexandra , Malt Ulrik , Rosmalen Judith , Schröder Andreas , Shedden-Mora Meike , Toussaint Anne , van der Feltz-Cornelis Christina
Published: July 2017

Objective

The harmonization of core outcome domains in clinical trials facilitates comparison and pooling of data, and simplifies the preparation and review of research projects and comparison of risks and benefits of treatments. Therefore, we provide recommendations for the core outcome domains that should be considered in clinical trials on the efficacy and effectiveness of interventions for somatic symptom disorder, bodily distress disorder, and functional somatic syndromes.

Methods

The European Network on Somatic Symptom Disorders group of more than 20 experts in the field met twice in Hamburg to discuss issues of assessment and intervention research in somatic symptom disorder, bodily distress disorder, and functional somatic syndromes. The consensus meetings identified core outcome domains that should be considered in clinical trials evaluating treatments for somatic symptom disorder and associated functional somatic syndromes.

Results

The following core domains should be considered when defining ascertainment methods in clinical trials: a) classification of somatic symptom disorder/bodily distress disorder, associated functional somatic syndromes, and comorbid mental disorders (using structured clinical interviews), duration of symptoms, medical morbidity, and prior treatments; b) location, intensity, and interference of somatic symptoms; c) associated psychobehavioral features and biological markers; d) illness consequences (quality of life, disability, health care utilization, health care costs; e) global improvement and treatment satisfaction; and f) unwanted negative effects.

Conclusions

The proposed criteria are intended to improve synergies of clinical trials and to facilitate decision making when comparing different treatment approaches. These recommendations should not result in inflexible guidelines, but increase consistency across investigations in this field.
A reanalysis of Schaefer et al. does not indicate extensive CRISPR/Cas9 mediated off-target editing events
Authors: Lescarbeau Reynald M. , Murray Bradley , Barnes Thomas M. , Bermingham Nessan
Published: July 2017

Recently Schaeferet al.(1) reported the presence of more than a thousand genomic differences between mice that had been edited withS. pyogenesCas9 at the zygote stage, and a control mouse of the same strain. Given the overlap of genomic differences between the two edited mice that were not found in the control mouse, the authors concluded that these differences arose from a Cas9-dependent activity. We feel that this conclusion is inappropriate, for three key reasons: 1) there was incomplete analysis of the genetic variation; 2) there was no consideration that the variation is naturally arising in these animals; and 3) the inferred behavior of Cas9 lies outside of its understood mechanism of action. Attribution to Cas9 activity should require a burden of proof, that we believe has not been met.
Uncovering genomic trajectories with heterogeneous genetic and environmental backgrounds across single-cells and populations
Authors: Campbell Kieran , Yau Christopher
Published: July 2017

Pseudotime algorithms can be employed to extract latent temporal information from crosssectional data sets allowing dynamic biological processes to be studied in situations where the collection of genuine time series data is challenging or prohibitive. Computational techniques have arisen from areas such as single-cell ‘omics and in cancer modelling where pseudotime can be used to learn about cellular differentiation or tumour progression. However, methods to date typically assume homogenous genetic and environmental backgrounds, which becomes particularly limiting as datasets grow in size and complexity. As a solution to this we describe a novel statistical framework that learns pseudotime trajectories in the presence of non-homogeneous genetic, phenotypic, or environmental backgrounds. We demonstrate that this enables us to identify interactions between such factors and the underlying genomic trajectory. By applying this model to both single-cell gene expression data and population level cancer studies we show that it uncovers known and novel interaction effects between genetic and enironmental factors and the expression of genes in pathways. We provide an R implementation of our methodPhenoPathathttps://github.com/kieranrcampbell/phenopath
Mechanics ofHydraDetachment from Substrates: The Role of Substrate Rigidity and Starvation
Authors: Khetan Neha , Maheshwari Shagun , Athale Chaitanya A.
Published: July 2017

Hydrais a fresh water hydrozoan living as a solitary polyp with a sedentary feeder lifestyle attached to a substrate. In times of food shortage they are reported to detach from their substrate and move either by drifting or ‘somer-saulting’. The attachment to the substrate is usually by the basal-body which secretes a mucosal adhesive. The mechanical strength of the adhesion of Hydra has not been quantified so far. Here, we measure the force required to detachHydra vulgarisandHydra magnipapillatafrom a surface and the role of physical and physiological factors. In order to do this, we have developed a flow chamber with a calibrated jet of water. We findH. vulgarisadhering to a hard substrate - a glass cover slip- requires more force to detach it as compared to a soft substrate- polyacrylamide gel. WhileH. vulgarisafter one week of starvation detaches with very similar values of stress,H. magnipapillatadetaches more readily when starved. These results suggest that the strength of adhesion is strongly affected by the stiffness of the substrate, while nutritional status dependence of detachment force appears to be species dependent. Given thatHydradetachment is required during locomotion, our measurements on the one hand suggest the magnitude of forces the animal must exert to detach itself. Additionally, our results suggest active detachment of the base might be required forHydrato achieve movement, and only a small contribution coming from weakening adhesion.
Recurrent excitation between motoneurones propagates across segments and is purely glutamatergic
Authors: Bhumbra G.S. , Beato M.
Published: July 2017

Spinal motoneurones constitute the final output for the execution of motor tasks. In addition to innervating muscles, motoneurones project excitatory collateral connections to Renshaw cells and other motoneurones, but the latter have received little attention. We show that motoneurones receive strong synaptic input from other motoneurones throughout development and into maturity with fast type motoneurones systematically receiving greater recurrent excitation than slow type motoneurones. Optical recordings show that activation of motoneurones in one spinal segment can propagate to adjacent segments even in the presence of intact recurrent inhibition. Quite remarkably, while it is known that transmission at the neuromuscular junction is purely cholinergic and Renshaw cells are excited through both acetylcholine and glutamate receptors, here we show that neurotransmission between motoneurones is purely glutamatergic indicating that synaptic transmission systems are differentiated at different post-synaptic targets of motoneurones.
JASPAR RESTful API: accessing JASPAR data from any programming language
Authors: Khan Aziz , Mathelier Anthony
Published: July 2017

JASPAR is a widely used open-access database of curated, non-redundant transcription factor binding profiles. Currently, data from JASPAR can be retrieved as flat files or by using programming language-specific interfaces. Here, we present a programming language-independent application programming interface (API) to access JASPAR data using the Representational State Transfer (REST) architecture. The REST API enables programmatic access to JASPAR by most programming languages and returns data in seven widely used formats. Further, it provides an endpoint to infer the TF binding profile(s) likely bound by a given DNA binding domain protein sequence. Additionaly, it provides an interactive browsable interface for bioinformatics tool developers. The REST API is implemented in Python using the Django REST Framework. It is accessible athttp://jaspar.genereg.net/api/and the source code is freeiy available athttps://bitbucket.org/CBGR/jasparunder GPL v3 iicense.
High Resolution Mitochondrial DNA Analysis Sheds Light on Human Diversity, Cultural Interactions and Population Mobility in Northwestern Amazonia
Authors: Arias Leonardo , Barbieri Chiara , Barreto Guillermo , Stoneking Mark , Pakendorf Brigitte
Published: July 2017

Objectives

Northwestern Amazonia (NWA) is a center of high linguistic and cultural diversity. Several language families and linguistic isolates occur in this region, as well as different subsistence patterns: some groups are foragers while others are agriculturalists. In addition, speakers of Eastern Tukanoan languages are known for practicing linguistic exogamy, a marriage system in which partners must come from different language groups. In this study, we use high resolution mitochondrial DNA sequencing to investigate the impact of this linguistic and cultural diversity on the genetic relationships and structure of NWA groups.

Methods

We collected saliva samples from individuals representing 40 different NWA ethnolinguistic groups and sequenced 439 complete mitochondrial genomes to an average coverage of 1030x.

Results

The mtDNA data revealed that NWA populations have high genetic diversity with extensive sharing of haplotypes among groups. Moreover, groups who practice linguistic exogamy have higher mtDNA diversity, while the foraging Nukak have lower diversity. We also find that rivers play a more important role than either geography or language affiliation in structuring the genetic relationships of populations.

Discussion

Contrary to the view of NWA as a pristine area inhabited by small human populations living in isolation, our data support a view of high diversity and contact among different ethnolinguistic groups; movement along rivers has probably facilitated this contact. Additionally, we provide evidence for the impact of cultural practices, such as linguistic exogamy, on patterns of genetic variation. Overall, this study provides new data and insights into a remote and little-studied region of the world.
FELIX: an algorithm for indexing multiple crystallites in X-ray free-electron laser snapshot diffraction images
Authors: Beyerlein Kenneth R. , White Thomas A. , Yefanov Oleksandr , Gati Cornelius , Kazantsev Ivan G. , Nielsen Nicolai Fog-Gade , Larsen Peter M. , Chapman Henry N. , Schmidt Søren
Published: July 2017

A novel algorithm for indexing multiple crystals in snapshot X-ray diffraction images, especially suited for serial crystallography data, is presented. The algorithm, FELIX, utilizes a generalized parametrization of the Rodrigues–Frank space, in which all crystal systems can be represented without singularities. The new algorithm is shown to be capable of indexing more than ten crystals per image in simulations of cubic, tetragonal and monoclinic crystal diffraction patterns. It is also used to index an experimental serial crystallography dataset from lysozyme microcrystals. The increased number of indexed crystals is shown to result in a better signal-to-noise ratio, and fewer images are needed to achieve the same data quality as when indexing one crystal per image. The relative orientations between the multiple crystals indexed in an image show a slight tendency of the lysozme microcrystals to adhere on (\overline 110) facets.
Grazing-incidence small-angle neutron scattering from structures below an interface
Authors: Nouhi Shirin , Hellsing Maja S. , Kapaklis Vassilios , Rennie Adrian R.
Published: July 2017

Changes of scattering are observed as the grazing angle of incidence of an incoming beam increases and probes different depths in samples. A model has been developed to describe the observed intensity in grazing-incidence small-angle neutron scattering (GISANS) experiments. This includes the significant effects of instrument resolution, the sample transmission, which depends on both absorption and scattering, and the sample structure. The calculations are tested with self-organized structures of two colloidal samples with different size particles that were measured on two different instruments. The model allows calculations for various instruments with defined resolution and can be used to design future improved experiments. The possibilities and limits of GISANS for different studies are discussed using the model calculations.
Crystal structure of bis(acetato-κ2
O,O′)diaqua[1-(pyridin-2-ylmethylidene-κN)-2-(pyridin-2-yl-κN)hydrazine-κN
1]terbium(III) nitrate monohydrate
Authors: Gueye NDiaye Mbossé , Moussa Dieng , Thiam Elhadj Ibrahima , Barry Aliou Hamady , Gaye Mohamed , Retailleau Pascal
Published: July 2017

In the title compound, [Tb(C2H3O2)2(C11H10N4)(H2O)2]NO3·H2O, the Tb3+ ion is nine-coordinated in a distorted tricapped trigonal-prismatic geometry by the three N atoms of the tridentate 1-(pyridin-2-ylmethylidene)-2-(pyridin-2-yl)hydrazine ligand, four carboxylate O atoms of two chelating acetate groups and two O atoms of the coordinating water molecules. The organic hydrazine ligand is disordered over two orientations with a refined occupancy ratio of 0.52 (3):0.48 (3). All bond lengths in the coordination environment of the Tb3+ ion are slightly larger than those observed in the isostructural Y3+ and Er3+ complexes. In the crystal, the complex cations are linked by pairs of O—H...O hydrogen bonds into dimers. These dimers, nitrate anions and non-coordinating water molecules are joined by O—H...O and N—H...O hydrogen bonds into a three-dimensional structure.
3,5-Bis(trifluoromethyl)phenyl 4-methylbenzenesulfonate
Authors: Olszowy Aleksandra , Siodłak Dawid , Zarychta Bartosz
Published: July 2017

Molecules of the title compound, C15H10F6O3S, are composed of 3,5-bis(trifluoromethyl)phenyl substituted with a toluene-4-sulfonate group. The dihedral angle between two aromatic moieties is 45.10 (5)°. In the crystal, molecules are connected by weak C—H...O and C—H...F contacts. One of the trifluoromethyl groups is disordered.
7-Bromo-1,4-dibutyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydropyrido[2,3-b]pyrazine-2,3-dione
Authors: Hjouji Mohammed Yassin , Mague Joel T. , Kandri Rodi Youssef , Ouzidan Younes , Ouazzani Chahdi Fouad , Essassi El Mokhtar
Published: July 2017

In the title compound, C15H20BrN3O2, the butyl substituents are in extended conformations on opposite sides of the bicyclic core. In the crystal, oblique stacks of molecules, formed by offset π-stacking interactions between pyridine and pyrazine rings in adjacent molecules, extend along the b-axis direction. The stacks are associated through a combination of C—H...O hydrogen bonds and C—Br...π(ring) interactions.
Feature fusion using Extended Jaccard Graph and word embedding for robot
Authors: Liu Shenglan , Sun Muxin , Huang Xiaodong , Wang Wei , Wang Feilong
Published: July 2017

Purpose

Robot vision is a fundamental device for human–robot interaction and robot complex tasks. In this paper, the authors aim to use Kinect and propose a feature graph fusion (FGF) for robot recognition.

Design/methodology/approach

The feature fusion utilizes red green blue (RGB) and depth information to construct fused feature from Kinect. FGF involves multi-Jaccard similarity to compute a robust graph and word embedding method to enhance the recognition results.

Findings

The authors also collect DUT RGB-Depth (RGB-D) face data set and a benchmark data set to evaluate the effectiveness and efficiency of this method. The experimental results illustrate that FGF is robust and effective to face and object data sets in robot applications.

Originality/value

The authors first utilize Jaccard similarity to construct a graph of RGB and depth images, which indicates the similarity of pair-wise images. Then, fusion feature of RGB and depth images can be computed by the Extended Jaccard Graph using word embedding method. The FGF can get better performance and efficiency in RGB-D sensor for robots.
Active compliance control of the hydraulic actuated leg prototype
Authors: Zhang Guoteng , Jiang Zhenyu , Li Yueyang , Chai Hui , Chen Teng , Li Yibin
Published: July 2017

Purpose

Legged robots are inevitably to interact with the environment while they are moving. This paper aims to properly handle these interactions. It works to actively control the joint torques of a hydraulic-actuated leg prototype and achieve compliant motion of the leg.

Design/methodology/approach

This work focuses on the modelling and controlling of a hydraulic-actuated robot leg prototype. First, the design and kinematics of the leg prototype is introduced. Then the linearlized model for the hydraulic actuator is built, and a model-based leg joint torque controller is presented. Furthermore, the virtual model controller is implemented on the prototype leg to achieve active compliance of the leg. Effectiveness of the controllers are validated through the experiments on the physical platform as well as the results from simulations.

Findings

The hydraulic joint torque controller presented in this paper shows good torque tracking performance. And the actively compliant leg successfully emulates the performance of virtual passive components under dynamic situations.

Originality/value

The main contribution of this paper is that it proposed a model-based active compliance controller for the hydraulic-actuated robot leg. It will be helpful for those robots that aim to achieve versatile and safe motions.
Viscoelastic model based bilateral teleoperation for robotic-assisted tele-palpation
Authors: Guo Jing , Li Ping , Yan Huaicheng , Ren Hongliang
Published: July 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to design a model-based bilateral teleoperation method to improve the feedback force and velocity/position tracking for robotic-assisted tasks (such as palpation, etc.) under constant and/or varying time delay with environment dynamic property. Time delay existing in bilateral teleoperation easily destabilizes the system. Proper control strategies are able to make the system stable, but at the cost of compromised performance. Model-based bilateral teleoperation is designed to achieve enhanced performance of this time-delayed system, but an accurate model is required.

Design/methodology/approach

Viscoelastic model has been used to describe the robot tool-soft tissue interaction behavior. Kevin-Boltzmann (K-B) model is selected to model the soft tissue behavior due to its good accuracy, transient and linearity properties among several viscoelastic models. In this work, the K-B model is designed at the master side to generate a virtual environment of remote robotic tool-soft tissue interaction. In order to obtain improved performance, a self perturbing recursive least square (SPRLS) algorithm is developed to on-line update the necessary parameters of the environment with varying dynamics.

Findings

With fast and optimal on-line estimation of primary parameters of the K-B model, the reflected force of the model-based bilateral teleoperation at the master side is improved as well as the position/velocity tracking performance. This model-based design in the bilateral teleoperation avoids the stability issue caused by time delay in the communication channel since the exchanged information become position/velocity and estimated parameters of the used model. Even facing with big and varying time delay, the system keeps stably and enhanced tracking performance. Besides, the fast convergence of the SPRLS algorithm helps to track the time-varying dynamic of the environment, which satisfies the surgical applications as the soft tissue properties usually are not static.

Originality/value

The originality of this work lies in that an enhanced perception of bilateral teleoperation structure under constant/varying time delay that benefits robotic assisted tele-palpation (time varying environment dynamic) tasks is developed. With SPRLS algorithm to on-line estimate the main parameters of environment, the feedback perception of system can be enhanced with stable velocity/position tracking. The superior velocity/position and force tracking performance of the developed method makes it possible for future robotic-assisted tasks with long-distance communication.
International advocacy NGOs, counter accounting, accountability and engagement
Authors: Denedo Mercy , Thomson Ian , Yonekura Akira
Published: July 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore how and why international advocacy NGOs (iaNGOs) use counter accounting as part of their campaigns against oil companies operating in the Niger Delta to reform problematic regulatory systems and make visible corporate practices that exploit governance and accountability gaps in relation to human rights violations and environmental damage.

Design/methodology/approach

This arena study draws on different sources of evidence, including interviews with nine iaNGOs representatives involved in campaigns in the Niger Delta. The authors mapped out the history of the conflict in order to locate and make sense of the interviewees’ views on counter accounting, campaigning strategies, accountability and governance gaps as well as their motivations and aspirations for change.

Findings

The evidence revealed an inability of vulnerable communities to engage in relevant governance systems, due to unequal power relationships, corporate actions and ineffective governance practices. NGOs used counter accounts as part of their campaigns to change corporate practices, reform governance systems and address power imbalances. Counter accounts made visible problematic actions to those with power over those causing harm, gave voice to indigenous communities and pressured the Nigerian Government to reform their governance processes.

Practical implications

Understanding the intentions, desired outcomes and limitations of NGO’s use of counter accounting could influence human rights accountability and governance reforms in political institutions, public sector organisations, NGOs and corporations, especially in developing countries.

Social implications

This paper seeks to contribute to accounting research that seeks to protect the wealth and natural endowments of indigenous communities to enhance their life experience.

Originality/value

By interviewing the preparers of counter accounts the authors uncover their reasons as to why they find accounting useful in their campaigns.
Western accounting reforms and accountability in wealth redistribution in patronage-based Nigerian society
Authors: Bakre Owolabi , Lauwo Sarah George , McCartney Sean
Published: July 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the claim that Western accounting reforms, in particular the adoption of International Public Sector Accounting Standards (IPSASs) would enhance transparency and accountability and reduce corruption in patronage-based developing countries such as Nigeria.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper utilises the patron/clientelism framework to examine the dynamics of Western accounting reforms in the Nigerian patronage-based society, in which the institutions of governance and regulatory structures are arguably weak. The paper utilises archival data and interviews conducted with representatives of state bodies (elected politicians and officials) and professional accounting associations.

Findings

Results from two major reforms (the sale of government-owned residential properties in Lagos and the monetisation of fringe benefits for public officials) are presented. Despite the claim of the adoption of Western accounting standards, and in particular IPSAS 17, which requires full accrual accounting and the utilisation of fair value in property valuation, historical cost accounting appeared to have been mobilised to massively corrupt the process for the benefit of politicians, other serving and retired public officials and family members.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the current literature by providing evidence of the relationship between patronage, corruption and accounting in wealth redistribution in the patronage-based Nigerian socio-political and economic context.
Determinants of corporate financial performance relating to board characteristics of corporate governance in Indian manufacturing industry
Authors: Palaniappan G.
Published: July 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine if certain board characteristics have an impact on the financial performance of manufacturing firms in India.

Design/methodology/approach

The study draws on data from 275 firms listed in NSE during from 2011 to 2015, using a multiple regression model. The present study examines the effect of board characteristics such as board size, CEO duality, independence and board activity devoted to the effectiveness of firms performance regarding market and accounting based financial performance measures.

Findings

The finding supports an inverse association between the extent of board characteristics and the firms’ performance indicators. The study also finds a statistically significant negative relationship between board size and TobinsQ, ROA and ROE. The evidence also shows that the board independence and meeting frequency moderate the relationship between return on equity and return on assets by enhancing these measures among corporate governance mechanisms.

Research limitations/implications

The present study does not include all possible board characteristics, i.e., large shareholders dominance on the board and promoter’s and institutional shareholding, to support firm’s performance. Further research might include the ownership structure of the board to improve firm’s performance.

Originality/value

The study focuses on the corporate governance issues such as size, duality, independence and activity of the boards and their influence on firm performance. The subject analyzes the possible impact of board characteristics and firm-related features that have received much attention from academic research, which has largely focused on studying the publications of corporate governance in India and Asian context.
Cooperation in R&D, firm size and type of partnership
Authors: Badillo Erika Raquel , Galera Francisco Llorente , Moreno Serrano Rosina
Published: July 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyse cooperation in R&D in the automobile industry in Spain. It first examines to what extent firms cooperate with external actors in the field of technological innovation, and if so, with what type of cooperation partner, paying special attention to the differentiation according to the size of the firms. Second, it aims to study how the firm’s size may affect not only the decision of cooperating but also with which type of partner.

Design/methodology/approach

The data in this study came from the surveys done in 2010 and 2013 by the Technological Innovation Panel (PITEC) for firms in the automotive industry. The paper estimates a bivariate probit model that takes into account the two types of cooperation mostly present in such an industry, vertical and institutional, explicitly considering the interdependencies that may arise in their simultaneous choice.

Findings

The empirical study confirms that small firms cooperate less frequently than big firms and that giving more importance to information publicly available and having public financial support from local and national governments are important determinants of collaboration agreements, mainly in the case of customers and suppliers.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to the understanding of the motivations of the automotive industry for engaging in R&D cooperation agreements. The authors study how the firm’s size may affect not only the decision of cooperating but also with which type of partner.
Predicting wine preference: testing the premises of the vinotype theory
Authors: Borchgrevink Carl Peter , Sherwin Allan Lewis
Published: July 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to outline Tim Hanni’s vinotype theory and to test some of the theories foundational propositions. Specifically, this paper tests whether the wine preferences of novice wine consumers can be predicted using novice consumers’ historic and current food and beverage consumption patterns and preferences.

Design/methodology/approach

The sample consists of college students at a large Midwest University in the USA with an average age of 21.5 years. Data are collected via focus group (n = 4), a web-based survey (n = 231) and via recorded hedonic responses to food and wines in a controlled lab setting (n = 75). Correlation, regression and factor analyses are performed.

Findings

The findings support the vinotype theory. Predicted order and structure was found and near-past consumer consumption patterns and preferences predicted the consumer wine preferences of novice wine consumers.

Research limitations/implications

The use of a convenience sample of college-student wine drinkers from a single university in Midwestern USA limits the paper. While the paper provides support for the vinotype theory, the results are not generalizable to other countries, regions or populations with a different wine-consumption culture. Additional research is necessary to further test and validate the vinotype theory and model.

Practical implications

The support for the foundational propositions of the vinotype theory suggests that it is reasonable to consider adopting the vinotypic approach. Businesses that sell wine can have their sales and service staff use the vinotypic approach to assist consumers in selecting wines the consumer will find delicious. This should lead to customer satisfaction and possible repeat sales/visits. Consumers can use the vinotype theory to develop an understanding of which wines they like and the reason for liking such. Researchers should use this foundational support to test the model outright.

Originality/value

This is a first academic review of the vinotype theory and a first test of the theory’s foundational propositions independent of the theory’s author. This paper is important, as it provides some independent support for the vinotype theory. The vinotype theory provides a basis for increased understanding and clarity in the realm of wine choice and preference.
“School banding”
Authors: Lee Daphnee Hui Lin , Chiu Chi Shing
Published: July 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore how principals’ leadership approaches to teacher professional development arise from school banding and may impact upon teacher professional capital and student achievement.

Design/methodology/approach

The case study is situated within the context of school-based management, comprising reflective accounts of nine school principals selected by stratified sampling from a sample of 56 Hong Kong schools to represent Bands One, Two, and Three schools. The reflective accounts were triangulated with observations of teachers and analysis of school websites.

Findings

First, under school-based management, principals remain obliged to recognize the power of state-defined examinations in determining the schools’ future priorities. Second, the exercise of school autonomy in response to this obligation varies, depending upon the competitive advantage schools have in the school banding system. Ideally, effective school-based management is dependent upon the principal’s capacity to facilitate good instructional practices. However, principals need to adjust their leadership practices to school contextual demands. Third, adaptations to contexts result in the varied developments of teacher capacities in schools, corresponding with the types of principal leadership adopted.

Originality/value

While statistical studies have identified attributes of exemplary principal leadership, few studies have examined the qualitative reasons for the exemplification of these attributes, and the influence of the school context in shaping these attributes. Departing from assumptions that leadership attributes are intrinsic to individuals, this paper considers how principals contextualize leadership in teacher professional development to the schools’ student academic achievement.
The implications of the school’s cultural attributes in the relationships between participative leadership and teacher job satisfaction and burnout
Authors: Benoliel Pascale , Barth Anat
Published: July 2017

Purpose

As a result of continuous reforms, increased emphasis has been placed on participative leadership as a means to improving school and teacher outcomes. However, along with the benefits of participative leadership comes the potential for strain and burnout, which stem from work intensification. Applying the implicit leadership theory and the conservation of resources theory, the purpose of this paper is to propose that differences in school’s cultural attributes will influence the emergence of participative leaders and their influence on teachers’ outcomes of job satisfaction and burnout.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected by survey from a sample of 367 teachers in Israel.

Findings

First, the results of general linear model (GLM) analysis indicated significant differences in the teachers’ perceptions of participative leadership between schools characterized by different cultural attributes. Second, the results of GLM indicated significant differences in the effects of participative leadership on teacher burnout across schools characterized by different cultural attributes.

Originality/value

This study has implications for policies involving the design and implementation of leadership tools for school management. Although research has emphasized the relationship between stressful job conditions associated with shared decision making and teachers’ well-being and job satisfaction, the volume of comparative work in the educational field shedding light on the impact of school’s cultural attributes on this question is limited. This study may assist principals in making their schools both more effective and more responsive to teacher expectations.
Whistleblowing propensity in power distance societies
Authors: Puni Albert , Anlesinya Alex
Published: July 2017

Purpose

This study aims to examine the link between power distance culture and whistleblowing intention or propensity in the African context.

Design/methodology/approach

The study achieves its aim by reviewing literature on power distance culture and whistleblowing, and it draws on the outcomes of relevant previous studies. It then reflects on some cultural practices in Africa in relation to the topic and uses examples from Ghana to exemplify the discussions.

Findings

It is considered unacceptable and disrespectful for subordinates to challenge or question their superior’s actions and decisions in high power distance societies. High power distance culture increases the perception of the negative consequences of whistleblowing, as whistle-blowers are regarded as traitors instead of civic heroes. These issues consequently provide major disincentives to subordinates engaging in whistleblowing, leading to low whistleblowing propensity in high power distance societies and implications for the increasing rate of corruption in Africa.

Practical/implications

The study findings imply that high power distance culture creates a “culture of silence”, which in turn provides fertile grounds for corporate crimes and unethical conducts. Authorities in high power distance societies should therefore institute adequate incentive schemes and shields to encourage and safeguard the safety of whistle-blowers.

Originality/value

In this era, where corporate scandals have become the order of the day and indeed a global canker, this study brings to the fore the destructive and limiting roles of culture, specifically power distance culture on the global war against unethical corporate practices and scandals.