bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Web 2.0 use in academic libraries of top ranked Asian universities
Authors: Balaji B. Preedip , M.S. Vinay , B.G. Shalini , J.S. Mohan Raju
Published: June 2019

Purpose

This paper aims to explore recent trends of how Web 2.0 applications were used in 75 academic libraries in Asia through their library websites.

Design/methodology/approach

The Times Higher Education Asia University Rankings 2016 was considered for this study and out of 200 top universities ranked, 75 universities were selected for data collection. Using a multi-method approach, this study evaluated key design elements, library service platforms and website content of each academic library website, examining their site features, Web 2.0 types and applications. The criteria for selecting the websites were first the website was in English and second had Web 2.0 applications integrated into the main website. For the ranking of websites, a library web service index was developed, benchmarking from these groups – resource discovery tools, Web 2.0 applications, e-resources, mobile applications, library guides, digital reference services and digital inclusion – as indicators.

Findings

The authors found that over two-thirds of Asian university libraries have deployed one or more Web 2.0 applications, though their popularity and implementation vary greatly. Most widely used Web 2.0 applications are Facebook (61.3 per cent), RSS (53.3 per cent), Twitter (46.7 per cent) and YouTube (37.3 per cent). Instant messaging (5.3 per cent) and podcasting (4 per cent) were least applied. With an average of 44 per cent, the diffusion rate of Web information is moderately high among the majority of the Asian university libraries.

Originality/value

Many studies explored Web 2.0 applications from developed countries. However, this study attempts evaluating the use of Web 2.0 applications through content, sites and features of academic libraries in Asia, from developing countries perspective.
The wajibah will: alternative wealth transition for individuals who are prevented from attaining their inheritance
Authors: Muhammad Daud Zakiul Fuady , Azahari Raihanah
Published: June 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to identify the conditions of the wajibah (obligatory) will under compilation of Islamic law (KHI) and the application and rationale of wajibah wills in religious justice. The wajibah will is a form of judicial wealth transition that can deliver an inheritance to an heir who is not otherwise eligible for it. It is implemented in some Islamic countries, including Indonesia, based on the KHI.

Design/methodology/approach

This is a descriptive qualitative study that uses documentation as a data-collection method. This study applies the content-analysis method to the data collected.

Findings

The results of study indicate that, under KHI, a wajibah will only be given to adopted children. Nevertheless, in the practice of religious justice, the wajibah will is also granted to heirs of faiths other than Islam and to illegitimate children. The rationale for the wajibah will involves historical factors and public considerations.

Originality/value

This paper provides information on the practice of the wajibah will in Indonesia in view of the plurality of the Indonesian people. Thus, the wajibah will is an appropriate instrument to attain justness in the well-being of the community. This paper also attempts to give a critical review of the practice based on five necessities.
Combining FEM and MD to simulate C60/PA-12 nanocomposites
Authors: Giannopoulos Georgios I. , Georgantzinos Stelios K. , Tsiamaki Androniki , Anifantis Nicolaos
Published: June 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is the computation of the elastic mechanical behaviour of the fullerene C60 reinforced polyamide-12 (PA-12) via a two-stage numerical technique which combines the molecular dynamics (MD) method and the finite element method (FEM).

Design/methodology/approach

At the first stage, the proposed numerical scheme utilizes MD to characterize the pure PA-12 as well as a very small cubic unit cell containing a C60 molecule, centrally positioned and surrounded by PA-12 molecular chains. At the second stage, a classical continuum mechanics (CM) analysis based on the FEM is adopted to approximate the elastic mechanical performance of the nanocomposite with significantly lower C60 mass concentrations. According to the computed elastic properties arisen by the MD simulations, an equivalent solid element with the same size as the unit cell is developed. Then, a CM micromechanical representative volume element (RVE) of the C60 reinforced PA-12 is modelled via FEM. The matrix phase of the RVE is discretized by using solid finite elements which represent the PA-12 mechanical behaviour predicted by MD, while the C60 neighbouring location is meshed with the equivalent solid element.

Findings

Several multiscale simulations are performed to study the effect of the nanofiller mass fraction on the mechanical properties of the C60 reinforced PA-12 composite. Comparisons with other corresponding experimental results are attempted, where possible, to test the performance of the proposed method.

Originality/value

The proposed numerical scheme allows accurate representation of atomistic interfacial effects between C60 and PA-12 and simultaneously offers a significantly lower computational cost compared with the MD-only method.
Coping with institutional complexity
Authors: Bunduchi Raluca , Tursunbayeva Aizhan , Pagliari Claudia
Published: June 2019

Purpose

Digital transformation projects are complex, lengthy and difficult to implement, often failing to meet their objectives. Previous research has attributed this failure to competing institutional logics influencing actors’ coping responses, and differences in actors’ interpretations of the project’s goals, technology and processes - their “organising vision”. The purpose of this paper is to analyse a complex technology implementation project from an institutional perspective, to further elucidate the role of multiple logics and organising vision.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative single study approach was used to investigate a public-sector technology project aimed at delivering a unified Human resource information system (HRIS) across regional health organisations in one country.

Findings

Four logics characterised the project (public sector, professional, corporate and market), but their relative dominance shifted as the project transitioned through stages, from comprehension to implementation. These shifts exposed tensions between components of actors’ organising vision, which influenced their coping behaviours in response to unexpected changes in the project’s strategic ambitions and technological scope. Coherence of vision, both within groups of actors and between them, was a key mediator of coping responses and project outcomes.

Originality/value

This analysis demonstrates the role of actors’ organising vision in bridging institutional logics and coping responses to shape digital transformation projects. It highlights the need to account not only for diverse institutional logics, but also for their changing influence as projects unfold and actors’ attention is directed onto different aspects of the organising vision. From a management perspective, it illustrates the importance of clear and consistent communication, to avoid entrenching conflicting interpretations.
Exploration of the initiation and process of business model innovation of successful Chinese ICT enterprises
Authors: Liu Peng , Bell Robin
Published: June 2019

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate four successful Chinese ICT enterprises to determine what initiated their business-model innovations and the process they went through by exploring how they adapted and innovatively renewed four key elements of their business models.

Design/methodology/approach

This investigative and exploratory research adopted a multiple-case-study design exploring four purposively selected successful Chinese ICT enterprises which had all engaged in significant business model innovation since their inception. Data for the case studies were collected through in-depth interviews with the founders and analyses of the companies’ history to gain a detailed account of the evolution of the firms’ business models since their formation.

Findings

The research identified three key initiating factors to business model innovation in the firms studied, namely, constant and rapid product iteration, along with an emergent strategy, leading to business model innovations to take full advantage of the firms’ competitive advantages; a reaction to threats and environmental changes; and an opportunistic behaviour to extend the business model to new markets. The research found that networks were a key factor in the process, including the customer base, financial investors and network collaborators.

Research limitations/implications

This research is limited to four successful Chinese ICT firms; this in-depth approach means the information may have only limited transferability but provides depth on a burgeoning Chinese sector.

Originality/value

This research addresses the call for more research and a greater understanding of what initiates business model innovation and the process firms go through to develop the key elements of their business models by looking at a purposively selected sample of successful Chinese enterprises in a fast-moving and technologically driven market.
End-user involvement in rehabilitation virtual reality implementation research
Authors: Proffitt Rachel , Glegg Stephanie , Levac Danielle , Lange Belinda
Published: June 2019

Purpose

Despite increasing evidence for the effectiveness of off-the-shelf and rehabilitation-specific active video games (AVGs) and virtual reality (VR) systems for rehabilitation, clinical uptake remains poor. A better match between VR/AVG system capabilities and client/therapist needs, through improved end-user involvement (UI) in VR/AVG implementation research, may increase uptake of this technology. The purpose of this paper is to review four case examples from the authors’ collective experience of including end users in VR/AVG research to identify common benefits, challenges and lessons learned.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors apply knowledge and lessons learned from the four cases to make recommendations for subsequent user-engaged research design and methods, including evaluation of the impact of end UI.

Findings

A better match between VR/AVG system capabilities and client/therapist needs leads to improved end UI in all stages of VR/AVG implementation research. There are common benefits of increasing buy-in and soliciting early on the knowledge and skills of therapists as well as input from the ultimate end users: people participating in rehabilitation. Most settings have the challenges of balancing the technology requirements with the needs and goals of the practice setting and of the end users.

Research limitations/implications

Increasing end UI in VR/AVG implementation research may address issues related to poor clinical uptake. In the VR/AVG context, end users can be therapists, clients or technology developers/engineers. This paper presented four case scenarios describing the implementation of different VR/AVG systems and involving a variety of populations, end users and settings.

Originality/value

The set of recommendations for subsequent user-engaged research design and methods span the process of development, research and implementation. The authors hope that these recommendations will foster collaborations across disciplines, encourage researchers and therapists to adopt VR/AVGs more readily, and lead to efficacious and effective treatment approaches for rehabilitation clients.
Market power, competition and earnings management: accrual-based activities
Authors: Chang Hai-Yen , Liang Li-Heng , Yu Hui-Fun
Published: June 2019

Purpose

This study aims to understand the impact of market power and competition on earnings management, particularly discretionary accruals, in the Chinese and Taiwanese tourism industries. China and Taiwan differ not only in their political and social systems but also in their economic systems. The research aims to provide managers and investors with stock selection strategy in the decision-making process.

Design/methodology/approach

Accounting data consisted of 60 publicly traded travel companies in China and Taiwan from 2000 to 2014. Methodology included correlation matrix for the variables, univariate and multivariate regression and competition analysis.

Findings

Based on empirical results, the authors found a significant negative correlation between market power and discretionary accruals and market concentration (or lower market competition) and discretionary accruals in both the Chinese or Taiwanese markets. Although the Chinese travel companies enjoyed higher market power and market concentration, they engaged in less earnings manipulation than their Taiwanese counterparts as a result of the Chinese Government regulation.

Research limitations/implications

Based on listed travel companies, generalization of the research results to entire tourism industry is limited. This study compares the travel companies’ practices of smoothing out earnings between China and Taiwan, thus helping managers and investors in making their financing, investment decisions.

Originality/value

This research contributes to the earnings management literature by examining a specific industry of tourism. This paper is original in two ways. The authors linked market power and market competition with earnings management simultaneously and then compared the Chinese and Taiwanese tourism industries in manipulating earnings.
Dissemination of quality improvement innovations by multisector health care alliances
Authors: Hearld Larry , Alexander Jeffrey A. , Wolf Laura J. , Shi Yunfeng
Published: June 2019

Purpose

Multisector health care alliances (alliances) are increasingly viewed as playing an important role in improving the health and health care of local populations, in part by disseminating innovative practices, yet alliances face a number of challenges to disseminating these practices beyond a limited set of initial participants. The purpose of this paper is to examine how alliances attempt to disseminate innovative practices and the facilitating and inhibiting factors that alliances confront when trying to do so.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors adopted multiple holistic case study design of eight alliances with a maximum variation case selection strategy to reflect a range of structural and geographic characteristics. Semi-structured interviews with staff, leaders and board members were used.

Findings

The findings show that dissemination is a multidirectional process that is closely if not inextricably intertwined with capacity- and context-related factors (of the alliance, partnering organizations and target organizations). Thus, standardized approaches to dissemination are likely the exception and not the rule, and highlight the value of existing frameworks as a starting point for conceptualizing the important aspects of dissemination, but they are incomplete in their description of the “on-the-ground” dissemination processes that occur in the context of collaborative organizational forms such as alliances.

Originality/value

Despite a rapidly expanding evidence base to guide clinical and managerial decision making, this knowledge often fails to make its way into routine practice. Consequently, the search for effective strategies to reduce this gap has accelerated in the past decade. This study sheds light on those strategies and the challenges to implementing them.
Race, again: how face recognition technology reinforces racial discrimination
Authors: Bacchini Fabio , Lorusso Ludovica
Published: June 2019

Purpose

This study aims to explore whether face recognition technology – as it is intensely used by state and local police departments and law enforcement agencies – is racism free or, on the contrary, is affected by racial biases and/or racist prejudices, thus reinforcing overall racial discrimination.

Design/methodology/approach

The study investigates the causal pathways through which face recognition technology may reinforce the racial disproportion in enforcement; it also inquires whether it further discriminates black people by making them experience more racial discrimination and self-identify more decisively as black – two conditions that are shown to be harmful in various respects.

Findings

This study shows that face recognition technology, as it is produced, implemented and used in Western societies, reinforces existing racial disparities in stop, investigation, arrest and incarceration rates because of racist prejudices and even contributes to strengthen the unhealthy effects of racism on historically disadvantaged racial groups, like black people.

Practical implications

The findings hope to make law enforcement agencies and software companies aware that they must take adequate action against the racially discriminative effects of the use of face recognition technology.

Social implications

This study highlights that no implementation of an allegedly racism-free biometric technology is safe from the risk of racially discriminating, simply because each implementation leans against our society, which is affected by racism in many persisting ways.

Originality/value

While the ethical survey of biometric technologies is traditionally framed in the discourse of universal rights, this study explores an issue that has not been deeply scrutinized so far, that is, how face recognition technology differently affects distinct racial groups and how it contributes to racial discrimination.
Investigating residents’ attitudes of 2016 Olympic Games
Authors: Maheshwari Vishwas , Giraldi Janaina de Moura Engracia , Montanari Maria Gabriela
Published: June 2019

Purpose

Olympic Games provide an arguably unparalleled amount of opportunities for the host city and country in relation to economic and socio-cultural growth and development. However, the achievement of such long-term success measures lies with the holistic involvement of community groups, specifically residents, in the planning of the mega event. The purpose of this paper is to examine the residents’ attitudes of the 2016 Olympic Games and to verify moderating effects of place of residence in support of the Games.

Design/methodology/approach

The data were collected in Brazil in the months leading to the Rio Olympic Games using non-probabilistic convenience sampling. A total of 501 responses were collected prior to the opening ceremony of the event. Both exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses were applied.

Findings

The socio-cultural and economic dimensions had a positive and significant effect in support for the Olympic Games; however, the environmental dimension did not have such strong effect. Furthermore, differences between host and non-host city residents tested positive in support of the Olympic Games.

Practical implications

This study aims to contribute to the developing application of country branding by examining attitudes of internal stakeholder groups in the form of residents.

Originality/value

This research presents a conceptual model to further establish the importance of such attitudes for organizers and government authorities involved with the bidding, planning and management of mega events from a country branding perspective, particularly in developing countries such as Brazil.
Factors affecting students’ information literacy self-efficacy
Authors: Aharony Noa , Gazit Tali
Published: June 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore how computer self-efficacy (CSE), perceived information overload (IO) and the digital native perspective predict students’ information literacy (IL) self-efficacy.

Design/methodology/approach

The research was conducted in Israel and comprised 117 students from the Information Science Department at Bar-Ilan University. Researchers used five questionnaires to gather personal details: a demographic questionnaire, the IL self-efficacy questionnaire, the CSE questionnaire, technology usage (TU) questionnaire and the perceived IO questionnaire.

Findings

The findings confirm that these variables significantly predict students’ IL self-efficacy.

Originality/value

Instructors and librarians should be familiar with the issue of individual differences, as well with the issue of students’ age. These factors may help them choose the most appropriate way when instructing IL skills to their students.
Entrepreneurial university strategies in the UK context: towards a research agenda
Authors: Pickernell David , Ishizaka Alessio , Huang Shuangfa , Senyard Julienne
Published: June 2019

Purpose

Prior research shows that universities differ in the knowledge exchange (KE) activities they pursue, but little is known about universities’ strategies regarding their portfolio of KE activities. The purpose of this paper is to explore the KE strategy of UK universities in specific relation to their portfolio of KE activities with small- and medium-sized enterprises.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on the 2015–2016 Higher Education Business and Community Interaction Survey data set, this study employs the Preference Ranking Organisation METHod for the Enrichment of Evaluations to assess the KE activities from 162 UK higher education institutions.

Findings

The study reveals that entrepreneurial universities valorise university knowledge assets through five SME-focussed KE activities most beneficial to measuring the entrepreneurial university. It also uncovers four different archetypal categories (groupings) of universities based on their strategic focus of KE activities.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the entrepreneurial university literature by considering universities’ overall KE portfolio rather than examining individual KE activity in isolation. It provides a clearer understanding of universities’ KE strategies that help define and delineate entrepreneurial universities regarding their range, focus and the combination of KE activities.
Construction resource allocation for industrial solid waste treatment centers in cities of Anhui Province, China
Authors: Wu Jie , Zhang Wanting , Zhou Zhixiang
Published: June 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to study where to place industrial solid waste treatment centers among the 16 prefecture-level cities under its jurisdiction.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper adopts the cross-efficiency data envelopment analysis (DEA) model, with the industrial land price and average annual salary per capita as inputs, while coverage, total transportation distance, number of industrial enterprises and total amount of industrial solid waste are used as outputs.

Findings

Based on the spatial efficiency scores calculated by using the new presented models, the authors find that the most efficient construction site are Chizhou, Chuzhou, Suzhou and Bengbu. That is quite different from the results obtained by using traditional approach.

Originality/value

This paper evaluates the spatial efficiency by using combinations of the four locations as the decision-making units of the DEA model, which could be used as an objective way to allocate limited resource. In addition to the resource allocation of the industrial solid waste treatment center, the method in this paper can also be applied to other spatial aspects of resource allocation.
Hybrid production system: perspectives in supply chain risk management
Authors: Wolfshorndl Diego Aparecido , Vivaldini Mauro , Camargo Junior João Batista de
Published: June 2019

Purpose

From the perspective of the supply chain risk management (SCRM), this paper addresses the effects of a hybrid production system (make-to-stock and make-to-order) in order to know which risks can impact the production planning process at a large automaker in Brazil. Through the correlation of these themes, the purpose of this paper is to understand the relevant risks to the supply chain (SC).

Design/methodology/approach

Before the field research, a theoretical approach was made on two themes. After theoretical analysis of a case study on the automaker and data collection, the work used the Pearson’s product moment correlation (r) andχ2and Kolmogorov–Smirnov tests to assess the risk factors raised by the interviewed professionals, thus characterizing a mixed methodological approach (i.e. qualitative and quantitative).

Findings

It was evidenced that many risks are the result of functional failures, such as input of incorrect information in the system, and many are inherent to managerial decisions when procedures and different paths of production are adopted. Additionally, it has been proven that the adoption of a hybrid production planning approach does not increase the risks to the SC and that the identified risks do not necessarily are included within the scope of SCRM.

Originality/value

This study is characterized by an approach which combines SCRM and hybrid production system.
Experimental approach to thermal conductivity of macro solder joints with voids
Authors: Sobolewski Maciej , Dziurdzia Barbara
Published: June 2019

Purpose

The purpose of the paper is to experimentally evaluate the impact of voids on thermal conductivity of a macro solder joint formed between a copper cylinder and a copper plate by using reflow soldering.

Design/methodology/approach

A model of a surface mount device (SMD) was developed in the shape of a cylinder. A copper plate works as a printed circuit board (PCB). The resistor was connected to a power supply and the plate was cooled by a heat sink and a powerful fan. A macro solder joint was formed between a copper cylinder and a copper plate using reflow soldering and a lead-free solder paste SAC305. The solder paste was printed on a plate through stencils of various apertures. It was expected that various apertures of stencils will moderate the various void contents in solder joints. K-type thermocouples mounted inside cylinders and at the bottom of a plate underneath the cylinders measured the temperature gradient on both sides of the solder joint. After finishing the temperature measurements, the cylinders were thinned by milling to thickness of about 2 mm and then X-ray images were taken to evaluate the void contents. Finally the tablets were cross-sectioned to enable scanning electron microscopy (SEM) observations.

Findings

There was no clear dependence between thermal conductivity of solder joints and void contents. The authors state that other factors such as intermetallic layers, microcracks, crystal grain morfologyof the interface between the solder and the substrate influence on thermal conductivity. To support this observation, further investigations using metallographic methods are required.

Originality/value

Results allow us to assume that the use of SAC305 alloy for soldering of components with high thermal loads is risky. The common method for thermal balance calculation is based on the sum of serial thermal resistances of mechanical compounds. For these calculations, solder joints are represented with bulk SAC305 thermal conductivity parameters. Thermal conductivity of solder joints for high density of thermal energy is much lower than expected. Solder joints’ structure is not fully comparable with bulk SAC305 alloy. In experiments, the average value of the solder joint conductivity was found to be 8.1 W/m·K, which is about 14 per cent of the nominal value of SAC305 thermal conductivity.
Determinants of sulphur chemolithoautotrophy in the extremely thermoacidophilic Sulfolobales
Authors: Zeldes Benjamin M. , Loder Andrew J. , Counts James A. , Haque Mashkurul , Widney Karl A. , Keller Lisa M. , Albers Sonja‐Verena , Kelly Robert M.
Published: June 2019

Species in the archaeal order Sulfolobales thrive in hot acid and exhibit remarkable metabolic diversity. Some species are chemolithoautotrophic, obtaining energy through the oxidation of inorganic substrates, sulphur in particular, and acquiring carbon through the 3‐hydroxypropionate/4‐hydroxybutyrate (3‐HP/4‐HB) CO2‐fixation cycle. The current model for sulphur oxidation in the Sulfolobales is based on the biochemical analysis of specific proteins from Acidianus ambivalens, including sulphur oxygenase reductase (SOR) that disproportionates S° into H2S and sulphite (SO32−). Initial studies indicated SOR catalyses the essential first step in oxidation of elemental sulphur, but an ancillary role for SOR as a ‘recycle’ enzyme has also been proposed. Here, heterologous expression of both SOR and membrane‐bound thiosulphate‐quinone oxidoreductase (TQO) from Sulfolobus tokodaii ‘restored’ sulphur oxidation capacity in Sulfolobus acidocaldarius DSM639, but not autotrophy, although earlier reports indicate this strain was once capable of chemolithoautotrophy. Comparative transcriptomic analyses of Acidianus brierleyi, a chemolithoautotrophic sulphur oxidizer, and S. acidocaldarius DSM639 showed that while both share a strong transcriptional response to elemental sulphur, S. acidocaldarius DSM639 failed to upregulate key 3‐HP/4‐HB cycle genes used by A. brierleyi to drive chemolithoautotrophy. Thus, the inability for S. acidocaldarius DSM639 to grow chemolithoautotrophically may be rooted more in gene regulation than the biochemical capacity.
Transcriptional regulation of central carbon metabolism in Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Dolan Stephen K. , Pereira Greicy , Silva‐Rocha Rafael , Welch Martin
Published: June 2019

Microbes such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa are often challenged by rapidly changing nutritional environments. In order to adapt to these shifts in nutrient availability, bacteria exert tight transcriptional control over the enzymes of central metabolism. This transcriptional control is orchestrated by a series of transcriptional repressors and activators. Although a number of these transcription factors have been identified, many others remain uncharacterized. Here, we present a simple pipeline to uncover and validate the targets of uncharacterized transcriptional regulators in P. aeruginosa. We use this approach to identify and confirm that an orthologue of the Pseudomonas fluorescens transcriptional regulator (RccR) binds to the upstream region of isocitrate lyase (aceA) in P. aeruginosa, thereby repressing flux through the glyoxylate shunt during growth on non‐C2 carbon sources.
ACTH‐producing thymic neuroendocrine tumor initially presenting as psychosis: A case report and literature review
Authors: Okumura Taiki , Takayama Shohei , Nishio Shin‐ichi , Miyakoshi Takahiro , Noguchi Takuro , Kobayashi Takashi , Fukushima Toshirou , Sekiguchi Nodoka , Otsuki Toshiaki , Komatsu Mitsuhisa , Koizumi Tomonobu
Published: June 2019

A 32‐year‐old woman was referred to our hospital because of severe psychosis and was found to have an ectopic ACTH‐producing thymic neuroendocrine tumor. Laboratory data revealed an elevated serum cortisol and plasma ACTH level, hypokalemia, and metabolic alkalosis. Chest computed tomography (CT) revealed an anterior mediastinal mass and multiple pulmonary nodules. As the patient was unable to communicate because of her consciousness disturbance, she was managed with artificial ventilation and deep sedation. Metyrapone and potassium supplementation were administered, and steroid psychosis gradually improved. Thoracic surgery was performed and the histopathological diagnosis was thymic neuroendocrine tumor with positive anti‐ACTH immunohistochemical staining. Here we present details of the case and review the literature.
Outcomes and toxicity of stereotactic body radiation therapy for advanced stage ultra‐central non‐small cell lung cancer
Authors: Cong Yang , Sun Bing , Wang Junliang , Meng Xiangying , Xuan Liang , Zhang Junjian , Liu Jiannan , Shen Ge , Wu Shikai
Published: June 2019

Background

Previous studies have documented a high incidence of toxicity in patients with ultra‐central non‐small cell lung cancer (UC‐NSCLC) treated with stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT). However, these studies mainly focused on early stage patients and included small sample populations. We reviewed the outcomes and toxicity of SBRT in patients with advanced stage UC‐NSCLC treated at our institution.

Methods

Fifty‐one consecutive patients with advanced UC‐NSCLC treated with SBRT using a regular regimen of 35 Gy administered in five fractions between December 2014 and August 2017 were reviewed. UC was defined as tumors abutting or overlapping the trachea or the proximal bronchial tree. We included locally advanced patients who were unfit or unwilling to receive conventional chemoradiotherapy and patients with metastatic or postoperative recurrent disease. Clinical outcomes, dosimetric parameters, and SBRT toxicity were analyzed.

Results

The median age was 63 years (range: 35–82), and the median tumor diameter was 6.8 cm (range: 2.1–12.4). The overall median follow‐up duration was 17 months (25.5 months for surviving patients). The median local control was 17 months for stage III patients and 11 months for stage IV or recurrent patients. Grade 3 or higher toxicity was observed in 9.8% of patients: G3 radiation pneumonitis (5.9%) and possible treatment‐related death (3.9%).

Conclusion

SBRT with a moderate dose in 4–6 fractions is effective and tolerable for patients with advanced stage UC‐NSCLC. However, caution should be taken considering possible treatment‐related death. Further studies are warranted.
Renormalized basal metabolic rate describes the human aging process and longevity
Authors: Kitazoe Yasuhiro , Kishino Hirohisa , Tanisawa Kumpei , Udaka Keiko , Tanaka Masashi
Published: June 2019

The question of why we age and finally die has been a central subject in the life, medical, and health sciences. Many aging theories have proposed biomarkers that are related to aging. However, they do not have sufficient power to predict the aging process and longevity. We here propose a new biomarker of human aging based on the mass‐specific basal metabolic rate (msBMR). It is well known by the Harris–Benedict equation that the msBMR declines with age but varies among individual persons. We tried to renormalize the msBMR by primarily incorporating the body mass index into this equation. The renormalized msBMR (RmsBMR) which was derived in one cohort of American men (n = 25,425) was identified as one of the best biomarkers of aging, because it could well reproduce the observed respective American, Italian, and Japanese data on the mortality rate and survival curve. A recently observed plateau of the mortality rate in centenarians corresponded to the lowest value (threshold) of the RmsBMR, which stands for the final stage of human life. A universal decline of the RmsBMR with age was associated with the mitochondrial number decay, which was caused by a slight fluctuation of the dynamic fusion/fission system. This decay form was observed by the measurement in mice. Finally, the present approach explained the reason why the BMR in mammals is regulated by the empirical algometric scaling law.
‘Here and There’: Children and Youth’s Perspectives of Borders in Mexico–United States Migration
Authors: Oliveira Gabrielle
Published: June 2019

This article explores children’s perspectives regarding migration and family separation on both sides of the Mexico‐U.S. border. ‘Transnational care constellations’1 that connect separated siblings allow children to imagine the other side of the border and to explore their thoughts and perspectives through the
lenses of inequality, as well as through a sense of belonging and family. This article presents ethnographic data of families that capture the dynamism of families that are both ‘here and there’ as children assemble their ideas and narratives of how transnational lives exist.
Violence and Vulnerability: Children’s Strategies and the Logic of Violence in Burundi
Authors: Hendriks Tanja D , Reis Ria , Sostakova Marketa , Berckmoes Lidewyde H
Published: June 2019

This study explores how children in conflict‐affected Burundi deal with violence in their everyday lives. Focusing on schools as a context in which children are prepared for further roles in society, child‐centred, qualitative and mixed‐methods research was conducted at 36 primary schools throughout Burundi. Findings reveal that children use a variety of strategies to deal with violence they encounter. These strategies reflect a learned ‘logic of violence’, matching dynamics of violence and vulnerability in society at large. Children’s strategies are ultimately aimed at reducing vulnerability to (future) violence and indicative of the omnipresence of violence and uncertainty in Burundi.
BUSINESS CYCLE FLUCTUATIONS WITH THE DIVISION OF PERMANENT AND TEMPORARY EMPLOYMENT
Authors: Chen Kuan‐Jen , Lai Ching‐Chong , Lai Ting‐Wei
Published: June 2019

In the mainstream real business cycle (RBC) model, labor can be viewed as temporary employment since the firm's demand for labor behaves directly in response to stochastic productivity shocks in each period. This paper provides a tractable way of analyzing fluctuations in permanent and temporary employment over the business cycle, as well as the underlying driving forces. This inclusion of heterogeneity helps reconcile the RBC model with the U.S. data given that temporary employees in general only account for a small proportion of total private‐sector employment (about 2%–3%). We draw an explicit division between permanent and temporary employment and resort to this separation to account for stylized facts that characterize a two‐tier labor market. In particular, with regard to the U.S. labor market, our benchmark model can well explain the motivating facts: (1) temporary employment is much more volatile than permanent employment, (2) the share of temporary employment (the ratio of temporary to aggregate employment) exhibits strong pro‐cyclicality, (3) permanent employment lags by two quarters on average, and (4) the correlation between temporary employment and output is stronger than that involving the permanent counterpart. The quantitative analysis suggests that our proposed channels explain the main facts well and the model further provides plausible reasoning for a firm's labor hoarding. (JEL E24, E32)
Revision of the list of aphelinids (Hymenoptera: Aphelinidae) in South Korea and analysis of their relevance as biological control agents for the EPPO region
Authors: Suh S.‐J. , Evans G. A.
Published: June 2019

An updated list of all 27 species of aphelinids (Hymenoptera: Aphelinidae) in nine genera that have been identified or reported from South Korea, along with a dichotomous taxonomic key to separate them, is provided. Ten of the species are included in the EPPO ‘Positive list of biological control agents widely used in the EPPO region’ (which corresponds to Appendix 1 – Commercially used biological control agents – and to Appendix 2 – Successfully introduced classical biological control agents – of EPPO Standard PM 6/3, 2016 version). Five of these species are successfully used in classical biological control. Other species could be used in the EPPO region, or elsewhere in the world, in the future.
Rethinking learning? Challenging and accommodating neoliberal educational agenda in the integration of Forest School into mainstream educational settings
Authors: Pimlott‐Wilson Helena , Coates Janine
Published: June 2019

A nation's education system plays a key role in future economic competitiveness. Political attention to education has fuelled geographical interest in the role of formal education and informal learning environments in the cultivation of future citizen‐workers. To date, formal and informal learning have largely been considered separately, but this paper responds by critically evaluating the intersections between the two spheres. This agenda is pursued through in‐depth analysis of two state‐funded, mainstream primary schools in the Midlands, UK, which adopt a Forest School programme. Qualitative in nature, the research involved 37 semi‐structured interviews with teachers and children in the Reception class and Year 4 (ages four to five, and eight to nine, respectively). The findings demonstrate that children understand classroom learning to contribute to their future pathways in a credentialised labour market, yet some struggle to frame Forest School activities as educational. Although presented as an antidote to the regimen of the school day, Forest School can thus be justified by some participants in relation to curriculum alignment and the future efficacy of the skills and knowledge acquired. In conclusion, this paper contributes to debates on the intersections of formal and informal education to examine how alternative education can function to counteract the institutionalisation of mainstream settings, while paradoxically developing skills in children that are valued by neoliberal states. More broadly, this furthers debates in geographies of education about what constitutes valuable learning in the primary school setting, and draws attention to the ways innovations might further exclude children currently disadvantaged in the education system.
Mindfulness‐based practices with family carers of adults with learning disability and behaviour that challenges in the UK: Participatory health research
Authors: Cook Tina , Noone Steven , Thomson Megan
Published: June 2019

Background

Family carers of adults with learning disability and behaviours that challenge lead complex and stressful lives. Their caring role can leave them isolated and unsupported. In the UK, effective services designed to build resilience for people in long‐term caring roles are lacking. There are none (to our knowledge) designed using a participatory health research (PHR) approach with family carers and professionals.

Objective

With positive behaviour support (PBS) and mindfulness and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) as key elements, a PHR approach was used to understand the basis for a successful course that supported the capabilities and resilience of family members in long‐term caring roles.

Design

The research was guided by the principles of PHR with participation as the defining principle throughout. Central to the research were reflexive conversations (communicative spaces) where diverse knowledges were shared and critiqued.

Findings

Mindfulness/ACT can change long‐standing response behaviours and build personal resilience and improve mental health. Elements enabling positive change included a facilitation approach for collaborative reflexivity and the complementary, interactive approach to collaborative enquiry for learning and decision making afforded by PHR.

Discussion

The use of PHR accessed knowledges that would have been lost to more traditional, professional‐expert driven processes and facilitated change in constructs for action for both professionals and family carers. Findings challenge service providers to consider how experiential knowledge has agency in professional practice and service design. Reflection on the PHR process across the FaBPos project led to a re‐consideration of quality issues in relation to PHR and participation.
Using co‐creation and multi‐criteria decision analysis to close service gaps for underserved populations
Authors: Mortimer Duncan , Iezzi Angelo , Dickins Marissa , Johnstone Georgina , Lowthian Judy , Enticott Joanne , Ogrin Rajna
Published: June 2019

Background

Navigating treatment pathways remains a challenge for populations with complex needs due to bottlenecks, service gaps and access barriers. The application of novel methods may be required to identify and remedy such problems.

Objective

To demonstrate a novel approach to identifying persistent service gaps, generating potential solutions and prioritizing action.

Design

Co‐creation and multi‐criteria decision analysis in the context of a larger, mixed methods study.

Setting and participants

Community‐dwelling sample of older women living alone (OWLA), residing in Melbourne, Australia (n = 13‐37). Convenience sample of (n = 11) representatives from providers and patient organizations.

Interventions

Novel interventions co‐created to support health, well‐being and independence for OWLA and bridge missing links in pathways to care.

Main outcome measures

Performance criteria, criterion weights , performance ratings, summary scores and ranks reflecting the relative value of interventions to OWLA.

Results

The co‐creation process generated a list of ten interventions. Both OWLA and stakeholders considered a broad range of criteria when evaluating the relative merits of these ten interventions and a “Do Nothing” alternative. Combining criterion weights with performance ratings yielded a consistent set of high priority interventions, with “Handy Help,” “Volunteer Drivers” and “Exercise Buddies” most highly ranked by both OWLA and stakeholder samples.

Discussion and conclusions

The present study described and demonstrated the use of multi‐criteria decision analysis to prioritize a set of novel interventions generated via a co‐creation process. Application of this approach can add community voice to the policy debate and begin to bridge the gap in service provision for underserved populations.
Assessing similarity of n‐dimensional hypervolumes: Which metric to use?
Authors: Mammola Stefano
Published: June 2019

Aim

The n‐dimensional hypervolume framework (Glob. Ecol. Biogeogr. [2014] 23:595–609) implemented through the R package 'hypervolume' is being increasingly used in ecology and biogeography. This approach offers a reliable means for comparing the niche of two or more species, through the calculation of the intersection between hypervolumes in a multidimensional space, as well as different distance metrics (minimum and centroid distance) and niche similarity indexes based on volume ratios (Sørensen–Dice and Jaccard similarity). However, given that these metrics have conceptual differences, there is still no consensus on which one(s) should be routinely used in order to assess niche similarity. The aim of this study is to provide general guidance for constructing and comparing n‐dimensional hypervolumes.

Location

Virtual study site.

Taxon

Virtual species.

Method

First, the literature was screened to verify the usage of the different metrics in studies (2014–2018) relying on this method. Subsequently, a comparative analysis based on simulated morphological and bioclimatic traits was performed, taking into consideration different analytical dimensions, sample sizes and algorithms for hypervolume construction.

Results

Literature survey revealed that there was no clear preference for one metric over the others in current studies relying on the n‐dimensional hypervolume method. In simulated data, a high correlation among similarity and distance metrics was found for all datatypes considered. For most analytical scenarios, using at least one overlap and one distance metric would be therefore the most appropriate approach for assessing niche overlap. Yet, when hypervolumes are fully disjunct, similarity metrics become uninformative and calculating the two distance metrics is recommended. The sample size and the choice of algorithm and dimensionality can lead to significant variations in the overlap of hypervolumes in the hyperspace, and therefore should be carefully considered.

Main conclusions

Best practise for constructing n‐dimensional hypervolumes and assessing their similarity are drawn, representing a practical aid for scientists using the 'hypervolume' R package in their research. These recommendations apply to most datatypes and analytical scenarios. The R scripts published alongside this methodological study can be modified for performing large‐scale analyses of species niches or automatically assessing pairwise similarity metrics among multiple hypervolume objects.