bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Aid and terrorism: a dynamic contracts approach with interlinked moral hazard
Authors: Roy Jaideep , Chowdhury Prabal Roy
Published: October 2019

Purpose

In a global environment where terrorist organisations based in a poor country target a rich nation, this paper aims to study the properties of a dynamically incentive compatible contract designed by the target nation that involves joint counter-terror tasks with costly participation by each country. The counter-terror operations are however subject to ex post moral hazard, so that to incentivise counter-terror, the rich country supplies developmental aid. Development aid also helps avoid unrest arising from counter-terror activities in the target nation. However, aid itself can be diverted to non-developmental projects, generating a novel interlinked moral hazard problem spanning both tasks and rewards.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors use a dynamic model where the aid giving countries and aid receiving countries behave strategically. Then they solve for the sub game perfect Nash equilibrium of this game.

Findings

The authors characterise the optimal contract, showing that the dynamic structure of counter-terror resembles the shock-and-awe discussed by military strategists. The authors then prove that it is not necessarily the case that a more hawkish (resp. altruistic) donor is less pro-development (resp. softer on terror). In addition, the authors show that it may be easier to contract for higher counter-terror inputs when the recipient is more sympathetic to terrorists. The authors also discuss other problems faced by developing nations where this model can be readily adopted and the results can endorse appealing policy implications.

Originality/value

The authors characterise the optimal contract, showing that the dynamic structure of counter-terror resembles the shock-and-awe discussed by military strategists. It is proved that it is not necessarily the case that a more hawkish (resp. altruistic) donor is less pro-development (resp. softer on terror). In addition, the authors show that it may be easier to contract for higher counter-terror inputs when the recipient is more sympathetic to terrorists. Other problems faced by developing nations are also discussed where this model can be readily adopted, and the results can endorse appealing policy implications. These results have important policy implications, in particular in today’s world.
The current status on 3D scanning and CAD/CAM applications in textile research
Authors: Špelic Ivana
Published: October 2019

Purpose

In order to present a significant usage of the computer-aided design (CAD)/computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) systems in the apparel and textile industry, the current literature has been observed. Although the CAD/CAM systems have also been increasingly applied to all fields apparel and textile manufacturing for the last few decades, improving the precision, productivity and the organization of the information flow, they have not been fully utilized in these industrial fields. The paper aims to discuss these issues.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is structured in three main sections showing the vast applicability of the CAD/CAM systems, the benefits provided by them and the future trend in their development.

Findings

Although the initial development of the CAD/CAM systems strived to completely eliminate manual and time-consuming operations, they have not been accepted in practice due to their inﬂexibility at making changes and the time needed for regenerating a complex parametric model. The textile and apparel industries show slow progress in acquiring the CAD/CAM systems.

Originality/value

This CAD/CAM technology enabled the customization in the design process according to individual needs and directed the textile and the apparel industry to moving into new directions such as the mass customization to personalization. The paper makes clear that although this technological concept is rather old, the use of the CAD/CAM systems will inevitably broaden in terms of applicability to new production stages.
Economics of seismic safety for earthquake-prone Himalayan province of Uttarakhand in India
Authors: Rautela Piyoosh , Joshi Girish Chandra , Ghildiyal Shailesh
Published: October 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to estimate the cost of seismic resilience of identified vulnerable lifeline public buildings in earthquake-prone Himalayan province of Uttarakhand in India.

Design/methodology/approach

Built area of the identified vulnerable lifeline buildings together with prevalent rate of construction has been considered for assessing the cost of seismic resilience while improvised rapid visual screening (RVS) technique, better suited to the built environment in the region, has been used for assessing seismic vulnerability.

Findings

Investment of US$250.08m is assessed as being required for ensuring seismic safety of 56.3, 62.1, 52.9, 64.6, 71.9 and 61.7% surveyed buildings, respectively, of fire and emergency services, police, health, education, local administration and other departments that are to become non-functional after an earthquake and result in a major socio-political turmoil. A total amount of US$467.71m is estimated as being required for making all the buildings of these departments seismically resilient.

Research limitations/implications

Actual investment estimates and reconstruction/retrofitting plans have to be prepared after detailed investigations as RVS technique only provides a preliminary estimate and helps in prioritising buildings for detailed investigations.

Practical implications

This study is intended to provide a snapshot of the state of seismic vulnerability together with the financial resources required for corrective measures. This is to help the authorities in planning phased mobilisation of financial and technical resources for making the built environment seismically resilient.

Social implications

This study is to bring forth awareness on this important issue and consequent public opinion in favour of safety of public facilities to ensure allocation of appropriate financial resources together with changes in techno-legal regime for the cause of earthquake safety. At the same time, this study is to motivate masses to voluntarily assess safety of their neighbourhood and undertake corrective measures.

Originality/value

This study is based on primary data collected by the authors.
The individual performance outcome behind e-commerce
Authors: Tam Carlos , Loureiro Ana , Oliveira Tiago
Published: October 2019

Purpose

While most e-commerce studies focus on the understanding of online customer behaviour, mainly adoption and purchase behaviours. The purpose of this paper is to examine the relationship between e-commerce and individual performance. The authors test the role of systems, information and service quality in e-commerce use and user satisfaction. Trust may become an important aspect for a consumer’s decision making, based on this the authors identify the effect of the role of trust on e-commerce use, user satisfaction and its impact on individual performance. This research has theoretical and managerial implications, since the protagonism of e-commerce is increasing in both academia and industry.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors apply a research model that integrates information systems success dimensions and user behaviour in the form of trust. The empirical approach was based on an online survey questionnaire of 437 individuals from Portugal.

Findings

The results reveal that overall quality and overall trust are important to explain use and user satisfaction in the context of e-commerce, which further leads to individual performance. The findings indicate that a higher level of use and user satisfaction increase individual performance.

Originality/value

The authors integrate information systems success dimensions and overall trust to understand the significance of e-commerce individual performance. The authors expect the results to enrich the understanding of the importance of considering both technological and behavioural factors to increase the success of e-commerce.
Driving innovation in supply chains: an examination of advanced manufacturing and food industries
Authors: Rampersad Giselle C. , Hordacre Ann-Louise , Spoehr John
Published: October 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate how supply chains can become more resilient through innovation initiatives. It examines the expansion and deepening of relationships between buyers and suppliers and the facilitatory role of the government in this process.

Design/methodology/approach

This study compares supply chains in the advanced manufacturing and food industries. It is based on qualitative research involving case studies and in-depth interviews with buyers, suppliers and facilitators from government.

Findings

The study reveals that innovation is critical in building more resilient supply chains. It uncovers the importance of power distribution, coordination, communication, trust and commitment for innovation within these relationships.

Practical implications

It provides implications about how best to develop effective buyer–supplier relationships through innovation and diversification, for marketing and purchasing managers, CEOs of manufacturing companies and suppliers and government players with responsibility for industry development and innovation.

Originality/value

It advances the industrial buyer–supplier literature by extending the predominantly business-to-business supply chain perspective to include the role of government in supply chains and their innovation.
What drives customer satisfaction and word of mouth in mobile commerce services? A UTAUT2-based analytical approach
Authors: Kalinić Zoran , Marinković Veljko , Djordjevic Aleksandar , Liebana-Cabanillas Francisco
Published: October 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper, which is based on the UTAUT2 model, is to develop and evaluate a predictive model of customer satisfaction related to mobile commerce (m-commerce) and the willingness to recommend this service to others.

Design/methodology/approach

The study was conducted based on a sample of 402 respondents. Confirmative factor analysis was used to evaluate the validity of the model, while structural equation modeling (SEM) was used to test the hypotheses. Finally, artificial neural networks were used to rank the influence of the significant predictors obtained by SEM.

Findings

Trust was found to be the most significant driver of customer satisfaction, followed by performance expectancy and perceived value. In addition, affective commitment and satisfaction were identified as the strongest predictors of word of mouth (WOM).

Originality/value

The originality/value of the paper lies in the establishment of the connection between the independent variables of the UTAUT 2 model – trust, satisfaction, affective and continence commitment and WOM. Additionally, it is one of a small number of studies investigating customer commitments and their influence on WOM in m-commerce.
Cost-effectiveness of TB treatments to Burmese and Laotian patients by Thai hospitals on the border with Myanmar and Laos
Authors: Laingoen Onn , Apidechkul Tawatchai , Upala Panupong , Tamornpark Ratipark , Foungnual Chaleerat , Paramee Rattakarn
Published: October 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to estimate the cost-effectiveness of tuberculosis (TB) treatment and care in two Thai hospitals located on the borders with Myanmar and Laos.

Design/methodology/approach

A retrospective data collection was conducted to analyze all costs relevant to TB treatment and care from Mae Sai and Chiang Sean Hospitals. The cost related to TB treatment and care and the number of successful TB treatment from January 1 to December 31, 2017 were used for the calculation. The cost-effectiveness ratio (C/E) and the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) were the outcomes.

Findings

In 2017, the total cost of the TB treatment and care program at Mae Sai Hospital was 482,728.94 baht for 57 TB patients. The cast per treated case per year was 8,468.93 baht. The C/E was 10,971.11 baht per successful TB treatment (44 successful cases). The total cost of the TB treatment and care program at Chiang Sean Hospital was 330,578.73 baht for 39 TB patients. The cost per treated case per year was 8,476.38 baht. The C/E was 22,038.58 baht per successful TB treatment (15 successful cases). The ICER was 5,246.56 baht. The Mae Sai Hospital model was more cost-effective in terms of the treatment and care provided to Burmese patients with TB than the Chiang Sean Hospital model for Laotian patients with TB.

Originality/value

To improve the cost-effectiveness of TB treatment and care programs for foreign patients in hospitals located on the Thai border, focus should be placed on patient follow-up at the community or village level.
Reviewing the progress of information and communication technology in the restaurant industry
Authors: Moreno Pilar , Tejada Pilar
Published: October 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to identify the progress of research of information and communication technologies (ICT) in the restaurant industry. More specifically, this paper reviews the main academic contributions from the area of hospitality and tourism over the past 18 years by addressing the adoption and implementation of ICT in restaurant activities.

Design/methodology/approach

This study analyses 68 full-length ICT research articles that were published in the period 2000-2018 in 29 journals (with Science Journal Citation Reports or Scimago Journal Rankings impact) and eight subject areas.

Findings

The review reveals a number of significant findings. It highlights the scarcity of contributions within academic research related to the area of hospitality and tourism focused on addressing the issue of ICT in restaurants. Moreover, and predictably, several dimensions clearly emerge from the consumer and supply perspectives as being the most prominent. On the one hand, the adoption of ICT has changed the behaviour of consumers in at least three dimensions: information search and evaluation of alternatives purchase decision and post-purchase behaviour. On the other hand, ICT has revolutionised the core business areas of restaurants by dramatically transforming the following areas: operational and strategic management, marketing and Web design, customer services, security, food and nutrition and human resources.

Originality/value

Given the fact that ICT in the restaurant industry remains a largely unexplored subject, this paper can offer a useful tool for researchers who pursue advances in this field, by providing an overview that outlines the main aspects that need further research.
How manufacturing firm characteristics can influence decision making for investing in Industry 4.0 technologies
Authors: Bosman Lisa , Hartman Nathan , Sutherland John
Published: October 2019

Purpose

Investing in Industry 4.0 is an important consideration for manufacturing firms who strive to remain competitive in this global economy, but the uncertainty and complexity of where to focus technology investments is a problem facing many manufacturers. The purpose of this paper is to highlight a region of manufacturing firms in the Midwest USA to investigate the role of firm size, access to funds and industry type on decision to invest in and deploy various Industry 4.0 technologies.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey was developed, piloted, and deployed to manufacturing companies located in the Midwest USA, specifically, Indiana, USA. A total of 138 manufacturing firms completed the full survey. The survey participants were requested to rank order the various technology categories with respect to previous historical spending, workforce capabilities and anticipated return on investment. The survey was supplemented with publically available data. Due to the use of rank-order data to identify Industry 4.0 priorities, a non-parametric analysis was completed using the Kruskall Wallis test.

Findings

The findings suggest that manufacturers with less than 20 employees and/or less access to funds (sales less than $10m) prioritize digital factory floor technologies (e.g. technology directly impacting productivity, quality and safety of manufacturing processes). Larger manufacturers with 20 or more employees and/or access to more funds (sales greater than or equal to $10m) prioritize enterprise support operations technologies.

Originality/value

Research studies and reports tend to lump manufacturing’s perspective of Industry 4.0 into one homogenous group, and rarely acknowledge the limited participation of “smaller” Small and medium-sized enterprises, which account for the far majority of manufacturing firms in the USA. The value of this study is on the “novelty of approach,” in that the data collection and analysis focuses on heterogeneity of manufacturing firms with respect to size, access to funds and industry type. The findings and recommendations are beneficial and relevant to organizations supporting Industry 4.0 efforts through workforce development and economic development initiatives.
Integrating instrumental and normative stakeholder theories: a systems theory approach
Authors: Valentinov Vladislav , Hajdu Anna
Published: October 2019

Purpose

The stakeholder theory encompasses instrumental and normative varieties whose mutual relationship remains unclear and exhibits a classic tension between rational self-interest and moral motivation. The purpose of this paper is to develop a strategy for navigating this tension.

Design/methodology/approach

Niklas Luhmann’s social systems theory is concerned with the limited ability of social systems to codify, and be receptive to, the complexity of the environment. Drawing on this theory, the paper juxtaposes the codification problems of two types of social systems: the for-profit firm and the economic function system.

Findings

This juxtaposition allows to identify four firm behavior patterns, two of which can be aligned with instrumental and normative stakeholder theories. If the codification capacity of the economic function system is assumed to be sufficient, the codification problems of the for-profit firm are shown to specify the range of applicability of the instrumental stakeholder theory. Dropping the above assumption is shown to specify the range of applicability of the normative stakeholder theory.

Originality/value

The argument offers a fresh way of understanding the institutional economics foundations of the stakeholder theory. Given that the systems-theoretic idea of codification reflects the functioning of the real-world institutions, the argument shows that both instrumental and normative stakeholder theories reflect the institutional texture of the modern society in distinct but equally legitimate ways.
Leaf resistance traits influence endophytic fungi colonization and community composition in a South American temperate rainforest
Authors: González‐Teuber Marcia , Vilo Claudia , Guevara‐Araya María José , Salgado‐Luarte Cristian , Gianoli Ernesto
Published: October 2019

Despite the ubiquitous presence of fungal endophytes in woody plants, mechanisms underlying variation in foliar fungal endophyte communities are poorly understood. Given that endophytes in woody plants are predominantly horizontally transmitted, fungal endophyte colonization of foliar tissues is likely to be influenced by plant resistance traits. Here, we evaluated the association between leaf resistance traits and colonization and community composition of horizontally transmitted endophytes (HTE) in 10 dominant trees species in a temperate rainforest in Southern Chile. Because resistance traits might restrict colonization of HTE, it was hypothesized that host trees with similar leaf resistance traits would show similar HTE communities.

We measured leaf traits with reported roles in plant resistance against pathogens and/or herbivores: cell wall polysaccharides, leaf toughness, flavonoids, anthocyanins, terpenoids and chitinases. We also determined variation in fungal read counts, number of operational taxonomic units (OTUs), diversity and community structure across tree species. Foliar fungal endophyte communities were characterized using Illumina MiSeq sequencing of tagged amplicons of the ITS1 region.

Fungal read counts were significantly different among host trees, while number of OTUs and diversity were similar among them. Multivariate analyses showed that community composition of endophytic fungi significantly differed among hosts, and that variation in cell wall, flavonoids, anthocyanins and terpenoids was associated with differences in HTE communities. We found that host trees sharing leaf resistance traits harbour similar HTE communities. Fungal read counts decreased with increasing content of cell wall polysaccharides, while endophyte diversity decreased with increasing anthocyanin levels. Fungal read counts, in contrast, were positively associated with terpenoids. Additionally, culture‐based data indicated that some HTE strains inhibited the growth of the common fungal pathogen Botrytis cinerea.

Synthesis. Overall, we found that leaf resistance traits may influence fungal endophyte colonization and community composition in tree species, likely through deterrent effects of structural and chemical traits. We suggest that endophytic fungi that overcome resistance traits might play a role in plant protection.
Accurate assessment of functional abilities in pre‐schoolers for diagnostic and funding purposes: A comparison of the Vineland‐3 and the PEDI‐CAT
Authors: Milne Susan , Campbell Lisa , Cottier Carolyn
Published: October 2019

Aim

Assessment of functional abilities is an essential component in the diagnosis of neurodevelopmental disorders in young children. Functional abilities, assessed using the Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory‐Computer Adapted Test (PEDI‐CAT), are used to determine eligibility for early intervention funded under the National Disability Insurance Scheme in Australia (NDIS). This study aims to compare the use of the PEDI‐CAT with the Vineland‐3, a comprehensive parent interview for the determination of support needs, diagnosis, and eligibility for funding.

Method

Seventy‐five preschool aged children referred for formal diagnosis were assessed with the Vineland‐3, and subscale scores reviewed for clinical judgement. These children were also assessed on the PEDI‐CAT speedy version and the results on the two tests compared.

Results

The PEDI‐CAT was less sensitive than the Vineland‐3 to the functional difficulties being experienced in this population of preschool aged children. The Vineland‐3 had floor effects on some scales and deficits masked by skills in other areas in the same domain, but standard subscale scores allowed skills and areas needing support to be defined. Overall 25% of children clinically in need of support were not identified on the Pedi‐cat compared to only 4% using Vineland Domain scores and 3% using Vineland‐3 subscale scores. The PEDI‐CAT also identified significantly lower levels of support required with only 32% of children found to need very substantial support compared to 40% of children on the Vineland Domain scores, and 59% using subscale scores.

Conclusion

Based on the results of this study, the Vineland‐3 comprehensive interview interpreted using subscale scores as well as domain scores is more sensitive than the PEDI‐CAT in identifying young children in need of support as well as the areas and degree of support required.
High‐quality genome‐scale metabolic modelling of Pseudomonas putida highlights its broad metabolic capabilities
Authors: Nogales Juan , Mueller Joshua , Gudmundsson Steinn , Canalejo Francisco J. , Duque Estrella , Monk Jonathan , Feist Adam M. , Ramos Juan Luis , Niu Wei , Palsson Bernhard O.
Published: October 2019

Genome‐scale reconstructions of metabolism are computational species‐specific knowledge bases able to compute systemic metabolic properties. We present a comprehensive and validated reconstruction of the biotechnologically relevant bacterium Pseudomonas putida KT2440 that greatly expands computable predictions of its metabolic states. The reconstruction represents a significant reactome expansion over available reconstructed bacterial metabolic networks. Specifically, iJN1462 (i) incorporates several hundred additional genes and associated reactions resulting in new predictive capabilities, including new nutrients supporting growth; (ii) was validated by in vivo growth screens that included previously untested carbon (48) and nitrogen (41) sources; (iii) yielded gene essentiality predictions showing large accuracy when compared with a knock‐out library and Bar‐seq data; and (iv) allowed mapping of its network to 82 P. putida sequenced strains revealing functional core that reflect the large metabolic versatility of this species, including aromatic compounds derived from lignin. Thus, this study provides a thoroughly updated metabolic reconstruction and new computable phenotypes for P. putida, which can be leveraged as a first step toward understanding the pan metabolic capabilities of Pseudomonas.
Sequence, structure and function‐based classification of the broadly conserved FAH superfamily reveals two distinct fumarylpyruvate hydrolase subfamilies
Authors: Hong Hwaseok , Seo Hogyun , Park Woojin , Kim Kyung‐Jin
Published: October 2019

Fumarylacetoacetate hydrolase (FAH) superfamily proteins are found ubiquitously in microbial pathways involved in the catabolism of aromatic substances. Although extensive bioinformatic data on these proteins have been acquired, confusion caused by problems with the annotation of these proteins hinders research into determining their physiological functions. Here we classify 606 FAH superfamily proteins using a maximum likelihood (ML) phylogenetic tree, comparative gene‐neighbourhood patterns and in vitro enzyme assays. The FAH superfamily proteins used for the analyses are divided into five distinct subfamilies, and two of them, FPH‐A and FPH‐B, contain the majority of the proteins of undefined function. These subfamilies include clusters designated FPH‐I and FPH‐II, respectively, which include two distinct types of fumarylpyruvate hydrolase (FPH), an enzyme involved in the final step of the gentisate pathway. We determined the crystal structures of these FPH enzymes at 2.0 Å resolutions and investigate the substrate binding mode by which these types of enzymes can accommodate fumarylpyruvate as a substrate. Consequentially, we identify the molecular signatures of the two types of FPH enzymes among the broadly conserved FAH superfamily proteins. Our studies allowed us to predict the relationship of unknown FAH superfamily proteins using their sequence information.
Farm and farmer characteristics and off‐farm work: evidence from Algeria
Authors: Bouchakour Radhia , Saad Mohammed
Published: October 2019

Off‐farm work is a widespread, two‐edged, phenomenon that can help both the survival and the demise of small‐ and medium‐sized agricultural exploitations. Given the prevalence of poverty in rural areas, nonfarm income has been credited with helping farmers to survive. But the observed shrinking of rural areas has also raised the question of whether off‐farm work is pulling farmers permanently away from farming. This paper explores the impact of farmer characteristics on the decision to work off‐farm in developing countries where this phenomenon has been largely neglected. A review of theory and prior empirical work suggests four main hypotheses which we test empirically. The results suggest that while some farmer characteristics appear to be universal, others appear to be country‐ or culture‐specific.
Animals, veterinarians and the sociology of diagnosis
Authors: Hobson‐West Pru , Jutel Annemarie
Published: October 2019

While sociologists of medicine have focused their efforts on understanding human health, illness, and medicine, veterinary medical practice has not yet caught their attention in any sustained way. In this critical review article, we use insights from the sociology of diagnosis literature to explore veterinary practice, and aim to demonstrate the importance of animals to sociological understandings of health, illness and disease. As in human medicine, our analysis shows the importance of diagnosis in creating and maintaining the power and authority of the veterinary professional. However, we then explore how diagnosis operates as a kind of dance, where professional authority can be challenged, particularly in light of the complex ethical responsibilities and clinical interactions that result from the triad of professional/owner/animal patient. Finally, we consider diagnosis via the precept of entanglement, and raise the intriguing possibility of interspecies health relations, whereby decision‐making in human health care may be influenced by experiences in animal health care and vice‐versa. In our conclusion, we argue that this analysis provides opportunities to scholars researching diagnosis in human health care, particularly around the impact of commercial drivers; has implications for veterinary and public health practitioners; and should help animate the emerging sociology of veterinary medicine.
The impact of Medicare copayments for skilled nursing facilities on length of stay, outcomes, and costs
Authors: Werner Rachel M. , Konetzka R. Tamara , Qi Mingyu , Coe Norma B.
Published: October 2019

Objective

To investigate the impact of Medicare's skilled nursing facility (SNF) copayment policy, with a large increase in the daily copayment rate on the 20th day of a benefit period, on length of stay, patient outcomes, and costs.

Data Sources and Study Setting

Retrospective cohort study from 2012 to 2016 using Medicare claims and SNF assessment data, including SNF admissions for Medicare fee‐for‐service beneficiaries.

Study Design

We first estimate how changes in Medicare's SNF copayment on the 21st day of a patient's benefit period affect length of SNF stay. We then use benefit day on admission as an instrumental variable to estimate the impact of SNF length of stay related to the copayment policy on readmission and Medicare payment.

Principal Findings

From 2012 to 2016, we examined 291 134 SNF admissions. Higher benefit day on SNF admission was strongly associated with shorter SNF stays. A 1‐day shorter SNF stay was associated with higher readmission rate within 30 days of hospital discharge (1.5 percentage points; 95% CI 1.4‐1.6, P < .001) and within 30 days of SNF discharge (0.9 percentage points; 95% CI 0.8‐1.0), lower total Medicare payment for the 90‐day episode after hospital discharge ($396; 95% CI 361‐431, P < .001), but $179 higher payment for the 90 days after SNF discharge (95% CI 149‐210, P < .001), offsetting the lower payment for the shorter index SNF stay.

Conclusions

Medicare's SNF copayment policy is associated with shorter lengths of stay and worse patient outcomes, suggesting the copayment policy has unintended and negative effects on patient outcomes.
Coordinated Care Organizations and mortality among low‐income infants in Oregon
Authors: Bui Linh N. , Yoon Jangho , Harvey S. Marie , Luck Jeff
Published: October 2019

Objective

To examine the impact of Oregon's Coordinated Care Organizations (CCOs), an accountable care model for Oregon Medicaid enrollees implemented in 2012, on neonatal and infant mortality.

Data Sources

Oregon birth certificates linked with death certificates, and Medicaid/CCO enrollment files for years 2008‐2016.

Study Design

The sample consisted of the pre‐CCO birth cohort of 135 753 infants (August 2008‐July 2011) and the post‐CCO birth cohort of 148 650 infants (August 2012‐December 2015). We used a difference‐in‐differences probit model to estimate the difference in mortality between infants enrolled in Medicaid and infants who were not enrolled. We examined heterogeneous effects of CCOs for preterm and full‐term infants and the impact of CCOs over the implementation timeline. All models were adjusted for maternal and infant characteristics and secular time trends.

Principal Findings

The CCO model was associated with a 56 percent reduction in infant mortality compared to the pre‐CCO level (−0.20 percentage points [95% CI: −0.35; −0.05]), and also with a greater reduction in infant mortality among preterm infants compared to full‐term infants. The impact on mortality grew in magnitude over the postimplementation timeline.

Conclusions

The CCO model contributed to a reduction in mortality within the first year of birth among infants enrolled in Medicaid.
Fatal Spontaneous Retropharyngeal Hematoma with Airway Obstruction in the Setting of Treatment with Dipyridamole
Authors: Torimitsu Suguru , Makino Yohsuke , Yamaguchi Rutsuko , Chiba Fumiko , Tsuneya Shigeki , Iwase Hirotaro
Published: October 2019

We report a fatal case of airway obstruction caused by spontaneous retropharyngeal hematoma (RH) in the setting of treatment with dipyridamole. A 90‐year‐old woman presented with cervical swelling, neck and chest ecchymoses, and complaints of dyspnea. She suffered cardiopulmonary arrest in the ambulance, and her death was confirmed after transportation to the hospital. The major finding of postmortem computed tomography (PMCT) prior to autopsy was widening of the prevertebral soft tissue. The results of the autopsy indicated that the cause of death was mechanical asphyxia, secondary to pharyngeal and laryngeal compression caused by the RH. There were no evident injuries, medical interventions, or particular diseases, suggesting the spontaneous cause of the RH. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of a fatal case secondary to spontaneous RH that was revealed through PMCT imaging.
Coal seam gas: a space‐based perspective
Authors: Schweinsberg Stephen , McManus Phil
Published: October 2019

Coal seam gas and other unconventional gas industries have often struggled to develop a social licence to operate in surrounding communities, frequently resulting in the emergence of broad opposition coalitions and legal challenges. In this article, the authors explore the relational aspects of coal seam gas's space‐based setting with reference to Keith Halfacree's three‐fold model of rural space. Applying this model to coal seam gas development in New South Wales' Hunter Valley, we argue that it is only by understanding the so‐called total space that efforts can be undertaken to promote the more inclusive stakeholder collaboration, which is a prerequisite for achieving shared value for industry and society.
Evaluating the shared and unique predictors of legal cynicism and police legitimacy from adolescence into early adulthood
Authors: Nivette Amy , Eisner Manuel , Ribeaud Denis
Published: October 2019

In different theoretical traditions, negative social conditions, attachments, and interactions shape the way individuals view the law and its agents. Although most researchers acknowledge the conceptual distinction between different legal attitudes such as legal cynicism and police legitimacy, it remains unclear to what extent these attitudes stem from the same social sources. In the current study, therefore, we evaluate the social and individual factors that influence trajectories of legal cynicism and police legitimacy using a diverse community sample of youths in Zurich, Switzerland. Latent growth curve models were employed to examine patterns of change in legal cynicism and police legitimacy between 13 and 20 years of age. The findings show that legal cynicism and police legitimacy both decline into early adulthood and exhibit high rank‐stability over time. Furthermore, we find that legal cynicism is closely related to individual characteristics that reflect one's inability to recognize or abide by their internal rules. By contrast, police legitimacy is shaped by socialization influences, particularly teacher bonds and police contacts. These results indicate a need to assess the measurement and interpretation of legal cynicism critically in relation to broader legitimacy beliefs and to investigate the shared and distinct sources of these different constructs.
Relationship between lower limb vascular characteristics, peripheral arterial disease and gait in rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Tehan Peta Ellen , Stewart Sarah , Chuter Vivienne Helaine , Carroll Matthew , Rutherfurd Katelyn Jane , Brenton‐Rule Angela
Published: October 2019

Objectives

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is associated with higher risk of atherosclerotic vascular disease, including peripheral arterial disease (PAD). The aim of this study was to measure lower limb vascular characteristics (indicative of PAD), using non‐invasive chairside testing methods, in people with RA compared to matched controls, and to determine the association between vascular characteristics and gait velocity as a measure of functional capacity in people with RA.

Methods

This was a cross‐sectional pilot study which measured lower limb vascular characteristics (bilateral continuous wave Doppler, toe brachial index [TBI] and ankle brachial index [ABI]) and gait velocity (6‐m walk test) in people with RA and controls. Differences in vascular characteristics between groups were determined using linear regression models, and associations between vascular characteristics and gait were determined using logistic regression models.

Results

Seventy‐two participants were included: 34 participants with RA mean disease duration 26.2 (SD 12.1) and 38 age‐ and sex‐matched controls. The control group contained 30 females (79%), and the RA group had 28 females (82%). There were no significant differences between the RA and control groups for lower limb vascular characteristics. People with RA walked significantly slower compared to controls (1.10 m/s vs 0.91 m/s, P < .001). People with RA who had abnormal TBI, or abnormal qualitative Doppler walked significantly slower compared to those with normal TBI (0.86 m/s vs 0.95 m/s, P = .043 and 0.81 m/s, vs 0.93 m/s, P = .028). There was no significant association between ABI and gait velocity.

Conclusion

This study did not identify different lower limb vascular characteristics in people with RA compared to matched controls. However, in people with RA, abnormal Doppler and TBI results are associated with slower walking velocity.
Environmental Information Disclosure and Financial Constraint
Authors: Yao Sheng , Hong Yuan , Lin Chen‐Miao
Published: October 2019

Using the introduction of Measures for the Disclosure of Environment Information (MDEI) in China, we investigate the relationship between environmental disclosure and firms’ financial constraints. We find that cash‐cash flow sensitivity decreases by 13.33% after the implementation of MDEI and that an increase of one point in the disclosure quality score results in an estimated reduction of 0.86% in cash‐cash flow sensitivity. We further find that the negative association between disclosure quality and cash‐cash flow sensitivity is more pronounced for high‐polluting firms, as well as for firms with effective internal control. Our study highlights the importance of a government environmental policy in emerging markets.
Longitudinal changes in the thickness of the ganglion cell–inner plexiform layer in patients with hypertension: a 4‐year prospective observational study
Authors: Lee Woo Hyuk , Lee Min‐Woo , Lim Hyung‐Bin , Kim Kyeung‐Min , Shin Yong‐Il , Kim Jung‐Yeul
Published: October 2019

Purpose

Hypertension (HTN) is expected to accelerate age‐related ganglion cell–inner plexiform layer thickness (GC‐IPLs) reduction, but there is limited information on the reduction rate of GC‐IPLs in HTN patients. We investigate longitudinal changes in the thickness of GC‐IPL in patients with HTN.

Methods

We performed a prospective, longitudinal and observational study design. Participants were divided into two groups: HTN group (49 eyes) and control group (56 eyes). After the initial visit, GC‐IPLs were measured four times at 1‐year intervals using spectral‐domain optical coherence tomography. The GC‐IPL reduction rate was estimated using a linear mixed model and compared between the two groups. Univariate and multivariate generalized linear mixed models were used to identify factors associated with reductions in GC‐IPLs over time.

Results

In a linear mixed model, the GC‐IPL reduction rates for the HTN and control groups were −0.64 (p < 0.001) and −0.19 (p < 0.001) μm/year, respectively, and the interaction between group and follow‐up duration was significant (p < 0.001). In the HTN group, all sectors exhibited significant reductions over time (all p < 0.001). Results from univariate and multivariate linear mixed model analyses revealed that age and IOP were significantly associated (p = 0.009 and 0.047, respectively) with reductions in GC‐IPLs in HTN patients.

Conclusion

Patients with HTN exhibited a significant reduction in GC‐IPLs compared to normal subjects. Additionally, age and IOP affected the reduction rate of GC‐IPLs in HTN patients. In various ophthalmic diseases, physicians should consider the longitudinal effect of HTN on GC‐IPLs.
Letter: role of mean platelet volume levels in the prediction of major acute cardiovascular events in patients with non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease—authors' reply
Authors: Mullish Benjamin H. , Forlano Roberta , Abeles R. Daniel , Thursz Mark R. , Manousou Pinelopi
Published: October 2019

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Abeles et al and Liu et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.15192 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.15527.
Population pharmacokinetics of a triple‐secured fibrinogen concentrate administered to afibrinogenaemic patients: Observed age‐ and body weight‐related differences and consequences for dose adjustment in children
Authors: Bellon Anne , Fuseau Eliane , Roumanie Olivier , Lamazure Jennifer , Stevens Wil , Dahmane Amel , Barthez‐Toullec Malika , Golly Dominique , Henriet Céline , Bridey Françoise
Published: October 2019

Aims

The pharmacokinetics (PK) of a triple‐secured fibrinogen concentrate (FC) was assessed in patients ≥40 kg by noncompartmental analysis over a period of 14 days with multiple blood samples. Limited PK time point assessments in children lead to consideration of using Bayesian estimation for paediatric data. The objectives were (i) to define the population PK of FC in patients with afibrinogenaemia; (ii) to detect age‐ and body weight‐related differences and consequences for dose adjustment.

Methods

A population PK model was built using plasma fibrinogen activity data collected in 31 patients aged 1 to 48 years who had participated in a single‐dose PK study with FC 0.06 g kg–1.

Results

A 1‐compartment model with allometric scaling accounting for body weight was found to best describe the kinetics of FC. Addition of age and sex as covariates did not improve the model. Incremental in vivo recovery assessed at the end of infusion with the predicted maximal concentrations was lower, weight‐adjusted clearance was higher, and fibrinogen elimination half‐life was shorter in patients <40 kg than patients ≥40 kg. Interpatient variability was similar in both groups.

Conclusion

Dosing in patients ≥40 kg based on the previous empirical finding using noncompartmental analysis where FC 1 g kg–1 raises the plasma fibrinogen activity by 23 g L–1 was confirmed. In patients <40 kg, (covering the age range from birth up to about 12 years old) FC 1 g kg–1 raises the plasma fibrinogen by 19 g L–1. Dosing should be adapted accordingly unless therapy is individualized.
AJM300, a novel oral antagonist of α4‐integrin, sustains an increase in circulating lymphocytes: A randomised controlled trial in healthy male subjects
Authors: Fukase Hiroyuki , Kajioka Toshifumi , Oikawa Ichiro , Ikeda Naoki , Furuie Hidetoshi
Published: October 2019

Aims

AJM300 is an oral antagonist of α4‐integrin that reduces inflammation by blocking leucocyte trafficking. This study aimed to investigate safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of AJM300 in healthy male subjects.

Methods

A total of 23 subjects were randomised to receive 240 mg (n = 6), 480 mg (n = 5), 960 mg (n = 6) of AJM300 or the corresponding placebo (n = 2 per group). The study drugs were taken orally 3 times daily after each meal on the first day followed by a 4‐day washout period. Thereafter, multiple‐dose administration was conducted for 6 consecutive days. The pharmacokinetic parameters of AJM300 and its active metabolite (HCA2969) were assessed, and total white blood cells and the differential cell count were used to determine the pharmacodynamic effects. Adverse events (AEs) were also monitored.

Results

The plasma AJM300 and HCA2969 concentration–time curves displayed a triphasic pattern on Day 1 (single‐day administration) and Day 10 (last day of multiple dosing), whereas the concentration of HCA2969 was much higher than that of AJM300. A significant but transient increase in lymphocyte count was observed after AJM300 dosing at all dosages tested compared with the placebo. The increase was sustained over a 24‐h period only at the 960‐mg dosage. In particular, a significant increase in the lymphocyte count compared to placebo (mean, 50.58%; 95% confidence intervals, 20.40–80.76) was observed at the first 960‐mg dose on Day 10. Six (26.1%) subjects reported ≥1 AEs, all of which were mild and resolved spontaneously.

Conclusion

The maximal and 24‐h sustained pharmacodynamic effects were demonstrated at the 960‐mg dosage after oral administration of AJM300 3 times daily for 6 days, which was also found to be safe and well tolerated.
Serious adverse effects occurring after chemotherapy: A general cancer registry‐based incidence survey
Authors: Ingrand Isabelle , Defossez Gautier , Lafay‐Chebassier Claire , Chavant François , Ferru Aurélie , Ingrand Pierre , Pérault‐Pochat Marie‐Christine
Published: October 2019

Aims

Pharmaco‐epidemiological surveys enable the frequency of serious adverse effects—and also the determining factors of their occurrence and seriousness—to be quantified. Few studies systematically gathering post‐chemotherapy adverse effects data have been conducted. The objective was to assess the incidence of post‐chemotherapy serious adverse effects on the basis of cancer registry data.

Methods

The population was composed of new invasive cancer cases, with the exception of haematopoietic tumours and cutaneous carcinomas. These cancers were identified in 2012 among patients living at the time of diagnosis in a region covered by a general cancer registry and by a French regional pharmacovigilance centre, and treated with neo‐adjuvant and/or adjuvant first‐intention chemotherapy, followed or not by radiotherapy. The study was based on a sample of 1000 patients from the registry, followed by the collection of serious adverse effects and the required information to constitute a pharmacovigilance file.

Results

Chemotherapy was associated with a particularly high incidence of serious adverse effects, affecting 44.5% (41.4–47.5%) of the patients. The highest incidence rates were observed when patients were exposed to topo‐isomerase II inhibitors such as etoposide and bleomycin (69.2%), vinca‐alkaloids (66.7%), topo‐isomerase I inhibitors (54.5%) and platinum derivatives (52.0%). The clinical context was also linked to incidence, especially in case of metastases (53.3%) and comorbidities (51.3%). Substantial differences were found according to localisation, with a particularly high incidence in bronchial–pulmonary cancers (59.0%).

Conclusion

The high overall incidence rate of serious adverse effects should motivate a reinforcement of information about drug toxicities and improve knowledge by drawing on patient reporting.