bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Femoroacetabular Impingement: A Review
Authors: Egger Anthony C. , Frangiamore Salvatore , Rosneck James
Published: November 2016

Femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) is one of the most researched conditions in sports medicine today. FAI occurs due to abnormal morphology and subsequently contact between the proximal femur and the acetabulum. With repetitive loading, this femoroacetabular mismatch can be a source of labral and chondral injuries. FAI is more prevalent in the athletic population, particularly those athletes who participated in high level activities at a younger age. If nonoperative management is failed, surgical treatment is often done arthroscopically and with good results. This review attempts to provide an overview of the pathophysiology, diagnosis, and potential treatment options of FAI with a focus on the most recent literature.
Therapeutic Endoscopy for the Control of Nonvariceal Upper Gastrointestinal Bleeding in Children
Authors: Banc‐Husu Anna M. , Ahmad Nuzhat A. , Chandrasekhara Vinay , Ginsberg Gregory G. , Jaffe David L. , Kochman Michael L. , Rajala Michael W. , Mamula Petar
Published: November 2016

Objectives:

Gastrointestinal bleeding is one of the most common indications for urgent endoscopy in the pediatric setting. The majority of these procedures are performed for control of variceal bleeding, with few performed for nonvariceal upper gastrointestinal (NVUGI) bleeding. The data on therapeutic endoscopy for NVUGI are sparse. The aims of our study were to review our experience with NVUGI bleeding, describe technical aspects and outcomes of therapeutic endoscopy, and determine gastroenterology fellows’ training opportunities according to the national training guidelines.

Methods:

We performed a retrospective review of endoscopy database (Endoworks, Olympus Inc, Center Valley, PA) from January 2009 to December 2014. The search used the following keywords: bleeding, hematemesis, melena, injection, epinephrine, cautery, clip, and argon plasma coagulation. The collected data included demographics, description of bleeding lesion and medical/endoscopic therapy, rate of rebleeding, relevant laboratories, physical examination, and need for transfusion and surgery. The study was approved by the institutional review board.

Results:

During the study period 12,737 upper endoscopies (esophagogastroduodenoscopies) were performed. A total of 15 patients underwent 17 esophagogastroduodenoscopies that required therapeutic intervention to control bleeding (1:750 procedures). The mean ± standard deviation (median) age of patients who required endoscopic intervention was 11.6 ± 6.0 years (14.0 years). Seven out of 17 patients received dual therapy to control the bleeding lesions. All but 3 patients received medical therapy with intravenous proton pump inhibitor, and 3 received octreotide infusions. Six of the patients experienced rebleeding (40%), with 4 out of 6 initially only receiving single modality therapy. Two of these patients eventually required surgical intervention to control bleeding and both patients presented with bleeding duodenal ulcers. There were no cases of aspiration, perforation, or deaths. There were a total of 24 fellows trained in our program during the study period. Less than 1 therapeutic endoscopy per fellow for NVUGI bleeding was performed.

Conclusions:

NVUGI bleeding requiring therapeutic endoscopic intervention is rare in pediatrics. A high rate (40%) of rebleeding was noted with a large proportion (66%) of patients receiving single modality therapy. Two patients required surgical intervention to control bleeding and both presented with bleeding duodenal ulcers. An insufficient number of therapeutic procedures is available for adequate fellow training requiring supplemental simulator and hands‐on animal model, or adult endoscopy unit training.
Objectively Measured Light Exposure in Emmetropic and Myopic Adults
Authors: Ostrin Lisa A.
Published: November 2016

Purpose

Light exposure has a close link with numerous aspects of human physiology including circadian rhythm, mood disorders, metabolism, and eye growth. Here, a lightweight wrist-worn device was employed to continuously measure light exposure and activity across seasons and between refractive error groups to assess objectively measured differences and compare with subjectively reported data.

Methods

Subjects, aged 21–65 years (n = 55), wore an actigraph device (Actiwatch Spectrum) continuously for 14 days to quantify light exposure, activity, and sleep. Subjects were classified as emmetropic (n = 18) or myopic (n = 37), and answered an activity questionnaire. Additionally, devices were calibrated against a lux meter and UV sensor for indoor and outdoor settings, and used to measure ambient illumination in various environmental conditions.

Results

Subjects spent 1:52 ± 0:56 hours outside per day, as measured objectively. Subjectively reported measures overestimated objective measures by 0:25 ± 1:19 hours per day (range −1:49 to +4:29 hours, P < .05). Subjects spent 1:04 hours more outdoors in summer and received an increased cumulative light dose compared to winter (P < .005). There were no significant differences in objective measurements of time outdoors between myopic and emmetropic subjects. Ambient illumination measures from the Actiwatch correlated with a lux meter for all locations tested (R
2 = 0.99, P < .001). Ambient illumination was highest in the summer at 176,497 ± 20,310 lux and lowest for indoor artificial light at 142 ± 150 lux.

Conclusions

Subjects spent more time outdoors and received an increased light dose in summer, with no differences between refractive error groups in this adult population. Various environmental and seasonal measurements revealed significantly different available light in winter versus summer and indoors versus outdoors. Objective devices such as the Actiwatch can be valuable in studies where quantification of environmental factors is critical.
Triggers Contributing to Health Care Clinicians’ Disruptive Behaviors
Authors: Bae Sung-Heui , Dang Deborah , Karlowicz Karen A. , Kim Miyong T.
Published: November 2016

Objectives

This study’s objective was to explore the possible triggers of clinicians’ disruptive behavior and to consider whether the type of trigger resulting in disruptive behavior differed by type of clinician, clinician characteristics, professional role, and ethnic background.

Methods

Using data collected from 1559 clinicians working at an urban academic medical center in the United States, we examined intrapersonal, interpersonal, and organizational triggers. In addition, we measured 3 subscales of disruptive behavior including incivility, psychological aggression, and violence. Multivariate regression and logit models were used to examine the relationship between triggers and disruptive behavior.

Results

We found that higher levels of intrapersonal, interpersonal, and organizational triggers related to a greater frequency of disruptive behaviors after controlling for clinician characteristics. Among nurses, all 3 types of triggers were significantly related to disruptive behaviors with the same direction and magnitude of difference. However, in the physician/affiliate group, only intrapersonal and interpersonal triggers were statistically significant factors for disruptive behavior.

Conclusions

In the present study, important triggers were found to contribute to clinicians’ disruptive behaviors. Strategies to prevent disruptive behaviors should be multipronged and reflect intrapersonal and interpersonal features for both clinician groups. For nurses, organizational triggers should be addressed through process and system improvements. Because disruptive behavior continues to be frequent among clinicians, efforts to implement evidence-based practices to prevent disruptive behaviors must continue, and future research should evaluate them.
Similarities and Differences in Nurse-Reported Care Rationing Between Critical Care, Surgical, and Medical Specialties
Authors: Higgs Megan , Fernandez Ritin , Polis Suzanne , Manning Vicki
Published: November 2016

Objective

The aim of this study was to determine the similarities and differences in elements of nursing care that are commonly rationed in the critical care, medical, and surgical specialties within an acute hospital environment.

Methods

Registered nurses who provide bedside nursing care within the medical, surgical, and critical specialties at a single center were invited to anonymously complete the self-administered MISSCARE questionnaire. The frequency of rationing for each individual care element within the 4 broader care groups (assessment, intervention—individual needs, intervention—basic care, and planning) of the MISSCARE questionnaire was determined. A mean score for each care group was also determined, and multiple regression analysis was undertaken to determine the demographic predictors of care rationing.

Results

Interventions related to basic care was the most frequently rationed care group in the critical care/emergency specialty (missed care mean of 50.1%), whereas planning was the most frequently rationed care group among both the medical (missed care mean of 43.6%) and surgical (missed care mean of 44.8%) specialties. Assessment was the least frequently rationed care group among all 3 specialties (missed care mean of 19.7%–26.7%). Length of time practicing as a registered nurse was an independent predictor of care rationing in the critical care/emergency specialty, and age older than 50 was an independent predictor in the medical specialty.

Conclusions

There are numerous similarities and differences in care rationing between critical care, surgical, and medical nurses. The development and implementation of specialty-based strategies should be undertaken to reduce the incidence of nursing care rationing.
Predictors of At-Home Arterial Oxygen Desaturation Events in Ambulatory Surgical Patients
Authors: Biddle Chuck , Elam Charles , Lahaye Laura , Kerr Gordon , Chubb Laura , Verhulst Brad
Published: November 2016

Objectives

Little is known about the early recovery phase occurring at-home after anesthesia and surgery in ambulatory surgical patients. We studied quantitative oximetry and quality-of-life metrics in the first 48 hours after same-day orthopedic surgery examining the association between the recovery metrics and specific patient and procedural factors.

Methods

We used the STOP-Bang score to quantify patient risk for obstructive sleep apnea in 50 adult patients at 2 centers using continuous portable oximetry and patient journaling. Parametric statistical procedures were used to assess relationships among patient and procedural factors and desaturation events.

Results

Higher STOP-Bang scores were predictive of the number and duration of desaturation events below mild and severe thresholds for arterial oxygen saturation during their first 48 hours after discharge from ambulatory surgery. Older patients and patients with higher BMI in particular were at an increased risk of mild and severe arterial oxygen desaturation. Using a home CPAP reduced the number of desaturation events. Of interest, taking opiate analgesics decreased the number of desaturation events.

Conclusions

Given the absence of systematic research of early ambulatory anesthesia/surgery recovery at home and concerns of postoperative respiratory events, our results have clear implications for patient safety. Our results imply that screening based on noninvasive STOP-Bang scores may allow for suggestions for recovery from ambulatory surgery, such as encouraging patients with high scores to use home CPAP and aggressive education regarding use of opiates.
Optimal energy harvesting from vortex-induced vibrations of cables
Authors: Antoine G. O. , de Langre E. , Michelin S.
Published: November 2016

Vortex-induced vibrations (VIV) of flexible cables are an example of flow-induced vibrations that can act as energy harvesting systems by converting energy associated with the spontaneous cable motion into electricity. This work investigates the optimal positioning of the harvesting devices along the cable, using numerical simulations with a wake oscillator model to describe the unsteady flow forcing. Using classical gradient-based optimization, the optimal harvesting strategy is determined for the generic configuration of a flexible cable fixed at both ends, including the effect of flow forces and gravity on the cable’s geometry. The optimal strategy is found to consist systematically in a concentration of the harvesting devices at one of the cable’s ends, relying on deformation waves along the cable to carry the energy towards this harvesting site. Furthermore, we show that the performance of systems based on VIV of flexible cables is significantly more robust to flow velocity variations, in comparison with a rigid cylinder device. This results from two passive control mechanisms inherent to the cable geometry: (i) the adaptability to the flow velocity of the fundamental frequencies of cables through the flow-induced tension and (ii) the selection of successive vibration modes by the flow velocity for cables with gravity-induced tension.
Cytoplasmic inheritance of parent–offspring cell structure in the clonal diatomCyclotella meneghiniana
Authors: Shirokawa Yuka , Shimada Masakazu
Published: November 2016

In cytoplasmic inheritance, structural states of a parent cell could be transmitted to offspring cells via two mechanisms. The first is referred to as the hangover of parent structure, where the structure itself remains and faithfully transmits within offspring cells; the second is structural inheritance, wherein the parent structure functions as a template for development of new offspring structure. We estimated to what extent the parent structure affects the development of offspring structure by structural inheritance, using a clone of the diatomCyclotella meneghiniana. The cell has two siliceous valves (a cell wall part at both cell poles): one is inherited from the parent and the other is newly formed. We estimated cytoplasmic heritability by comparing valve traits (central fultoportulae (CTFP), striae, central area, and cell diameter) of parent and new offspring valves, using single-cell isolation and valve labelling. Parent–offspring valve trait regressions showed that all traits, except CTFP, were significantly correlated. We formulated a quantitative genetic model considering the diatom inheritance system and revealed short-term rapid evolution compared with other inheritance systems. Diatom structural inheritance will have evolved to enable clonal populations to rapidly acquire and maintain suitable structures for temporal changes in environments and life-cycle stages.
PopPAnTe: population and pedigree association testing for quantitative data
Authors: Visconti Alessia , Al-Shafai Mashael , Al Muftah Wadha A. , Zaghlool Shaza B. , Mangino Massimo , Suhre Karsten , Falchi Mario
Published: November 2016

Family-based designs, from twin studies to isolated populations with their complex genealogical data, are a valuable resource for genetic studies of heritable molecular biomarkers. Existing software for family-based studies have mainly focused on facilitating association between response phenotypes and genetic markers, and no user-friendly tools are at present available to straightforwardly extend association studies in related samples to large datasets of generic quantitative data, as those generated by current -omicstechnologies.

We developed PopPAnTe, a user-friendly Java program, which evaluates the association of quantitative data in related samples. Additionally, Pop-PAnTe implements data pre and post processing, region based testing, and empirical assessment of associations.

PopPAnTe is an integrated and flexible framework for pairwise association testing in related samples with a large number of predictors and response variables. It works either with family data of any size and complexity, or, when the genealogical information is unknown, it uses genetic similarity information between individuals as those inferred from genome-wide genetic data. It can therefore be particularly useful in facilitating usage of biobank data collections from population isolates when extensive genealogical information is missing.
HiC-bench: comprehensive and reproducible Hi-C data analysis designed for parameter exploration and benchmarking
Authors: Lazaris Charalampos , Kelly Stephen , Ntziachristos Panagiotis , Aifantis Iannis , Tsirigos Aristotelis
Published: November 2016

Background

Chromatin conformation capture techniques have evolved rapidly over the last few years and have provided new insights into genome organization at an unprecedented resolution. Analysis of Hi-C data is complex and computationally intensive involving multiple tasks and requiring robust quality assessment. This has led to the development of several tools and methods for processing Hi-C data. However, most of the existing tools do not cover all aspects of the analysis and only offer few quality assessment options. Additionally, availability of a multitude of tools makes scientists wonder how these tools and associated parameters can be optimally used, and how potential discrepancies can be interpreted and resolved. Most importantly, investigators need to be ensured that slight changes in parameters and/or methods do not affect the conclusions of their studies.

Results

To address these issues (compare, explore and reproduce), we introduce HiC-bench, a configurable computational platform for comprehensive and reproducible analysis of Hi-C sequencing data. HiC-bench performs all common Hi-C analysis tasks, such as alignment, filtering, contact matrix generation and normalization, identification of topological domains, scoring and annotation of specific interactions using both published tools and our own. We have also embedded various tasks that perform quality assessment and visualization. HiC-bench is implemented as a data flow platform with an emphasis on analysis reproducibility. Additionally, the user can readily perform parameter exploration and comparison of different tools in a combinatorial manner that takes into account all desired parameter settings in each pipeline task. This unique feature facilitates the design and execution of complex benchmark studies that may involve combinations of multiple tool/parameter choices in each step of the analysis. To demonstrate the usefulness of our platform, we performed a comprehensive benchmark of existing and new TAD callers exploring different matrix correction methods, parameter settings and sequencing depths. Users can extend our pipeline by adding more tools as they become available.

Conclusions

HiC-bench consists an easy-to-use and extensible platform for comprehensive analysis of Hi-C datasets. We expect that it will facilitate current analyses and help scientists formulate and test new hypotheses in the field of three-dimensional genome organization.
Dynamic Modeling, Parameter Estimation and Uncertainty Analysis in 𝗥
Authors: Kaschek Daniel , Mader Wolfgang , Fehling-Kaschek Mirjam , Rosenblatt Marcus , Timmer Jens
Published: November 2016

In a wide variety of research elds, dynamic modeling is employed as an instrument to learn and understand complex systems. The differential equations involved in this process are usually non-linear and depend on many parameters whose values decide upon the characteristics of the emergent system. The inverse problem, i.e. the inference or estimation of parameter values from observed data, is of interest from two points of view. First, the existence point of view, dealing with the question whether the system is able to reproduce the observed dynamics for any parameter values. Second, the identi ability point of view, investigating invariance of the prediction under change of parameter values, as well as the quanti cation of parameter uncertainty.

In this paper, we present the R packagedModproviding a framework for dealing with the inverse problem in dynamic systems. The particularity of the approach taken bydModis to provide and propagate accurate derivatives computed from symbolic expres-sions wherever possible. This derivative information highly supports the convergence of optimization routines and enhances their numerical stability, a requirement for the appli-cability of so sticated uncertainty analysis methods. Computational efficiency is achieved by automatic generation and execution of C code. The framework is object oriented (S3) and provides a variety of functions to set up dynamic models, observation functions and parameter transformations for multi-conditional parameter estimation.

The key elements of the framework and the methodology implemented indModare highlighted by an application on a three-compartment transporter model.
Smith-Lemli-Opitz syndrome carrier frequency and estimates ofin uteromortality rates
Authors: Lazarin Gabriel A. , Haque Imran S. , Evans Eric A. , Goldberg James D.
Published: November 2016

Objective: To tabulate individual allele frequencies and total carrier frequency for Smith-Lemli-Opitz syndrome (SLOS) and compare expected versus observed birth incidences.

Design: Retrospective analysis of patients from the general population who have undergone carrier screening for SLOS.

Setting: Individuals were offered and elected carrier screening in their respective physician’s offices.

Patients: 262,399 individuals with no indication of family or personal history of Smith-Lemli-Opitz syndrome, primarily US-based, screened for Smith-Lemli-Opitz syndrome mutations as part of an expanded carrier screening panel.

Intervention(s): Data on mutations in theDHCR7gene causing SLOS were analyzed to estimate carrier frequencies in multiple ethnic groups. SLOS birth incidences obtained from existing literature are then compared to our data to estimate the effect of SLOS on fetal survival.

Main Outcome Measure(s): Individual and cumulative allele frequencies stratified by self-reported patient ethnicity.

Results: SLOS carrier frequency is highest in individuals of Ashkenazi Jewish ancestry (1 in 43) and Northern Europeans (1 in 54). Comparing predicted birth incidence to that observed in published literature suggests that approximately 42% to 88% of affected conceptuses experience fetal demise.

Conclusion: SLOS is relatively frequent in certain populations and, due to its impact on fetal survival, merits preconception screening.
ARhizobiales-specific unipolar polysaccharide adhesin contributes toRhodopseudomonas palustrisbiofilm formation across diverse photoheterotrophic conditions
Authors: Fritts Ryan K. , LaSarre Breah , Stoner Ari M. , Posto Amanda L. , McKinlay James B.
Published: November 2016

Bacteria predominantly exist as members of surfaced-attached communities known as biofilms. Many bacterial species initiate biofilms and adhere to each other using cell surface adhesins. This is the case for numerous ecologically diverseα-proteobacteria,which use polar exopolysaccharide adhesins for cell-cell adhesion and surface attachment. Here, we show thatRhodopseudomonas palustris, a metabolically versatile member of the α-proteobacterial orderRhizobiales, encodes a functional unipolar polysaccharide (UPP) biosynthesis gene cluster. Deletion of genes predicted to be critical for UPP biosynthesis and export abolished UPP production. We also found thatR. palustrisuses UPP to mediate biofilm formation across diverse photoheterotrophic growth conditions, wherein light and organic substrates are used to support growth. However, UPP was less important for biofilm formation during photoautotrophy, where light and CO2support growth, and during aerobic respiration with organic compounds. Expanding our analysis beyondR. palustris, we examined the phylogenetic distribution and genomic organization of UPP gene clusters amongRhizobialesspecies that inhabit diverse niches. Our analysis suggests that UPP is a conserved ancestral trait of theRhizobialesbut that it has been independently lost multiple times during the evolution of this clade, twice coinciding with adaptation to intracellular lifestyles within animal hosts.

IMPORTANCE

Bacteria are ubiquitously found as surface-attached communities and cellular aggregates in nature. Here, we address how bacterial adhesion is coordinated in response to diverse environments using two complementary approaches. First, we examined howRhodopseudomonas palustris, one of the most metabolically versatile organisms ever described, varies its adhesion to surfaces in response to different environmental conditions. We identified 2 critical genes for the production of a unipolar polysaccharide (UPP) and showed that UPP is important for adhesion when light and organic substrates are used for growth. Looking beyondR. palustris, we performed the most comprehensive survey to date on the conservation of UPP biosynthesis genes among a group of closely related bacteria that occupy diverse niches. Our findings suggest that UPP is important for free-living and plant-associated lifestyles but dispensable for animal pathogens. Additionally, we propose guidelines for classifying the adhesins produced by variousα-proteobacteria, facilitating future functional and comparative studies.
Sustainability of Indian PPP procurement process
Authors: Patil Nilesh Agarchand , Laishram Boeing Singh
Published: November 2016

Purpose

Though public-private partnership (PPP) programme in India has stabilized significantly with implementation of successful infrastructure projects, still it suffers from shortfalls related to some aspects of sustainable development. One of the ways to overcome these shortfalls is to modify the existing PPP procurement process in order to attain the sustainable development goals. The purpose of this paper is to develop a conceptual framework highlighting the strategies for integrating sustainable development principles in PPP procurement process.

Design/methodology/approach

Content analysis through literature review has been adopted to identify the shortfalls in PPP process and examine the possible strategies to overcome the shortfalls from best practices in implementation of PPP projects. The preliminary framework of strategies has been conceptualized to integrate sustainable development principles in PPP procurement process. Finally, the feasibility of preliminary framework has been undertaken through focussed interviews with local stakeholders of PPPs.

Findings

The study indicates opportunities to promote sustainable development in the current PPP procurement process exists through enhancement in critical aspects like stakeholder’s participation, environment impact assessment, value for money analysis, user’s charges, risk allocation policies, transaction and bidding cost, and bid evaluation criteria.

Originality/value

The paper presents a critical insight on integrating sustainable development principles in PPP procurement process which has not been the focus in the majority of previous research studies.
Water use efficiency and conservation during construction: drivers, barriers and practices
Authors: Waidyasekara K.G.A.S. , De Silva Lalith , Rameezdeen Raufdeen
Published: November 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore ways to enhance water use efficiency at construction sites according to project stakeholders’ perceptions.

Design/methodology/approach

A questionnaire survey was developed based on drivers, barriers and potential water use efficiency measures identified through a literature review. It was administered among professionals working in the construction industry who have more than ten years of work experience.

Findings

The study highlighted cost of water and sources of water as main drivers that promote water use efficiency on sites. Lack of priority for water management among host of other managerial functions was identified as the main barrier. In order to conserve water, respondents favoured “soft” measures such as changes in workers’ behaviour and managerial policies and planning for water savings, as opposed to “hard” measures which were primarily technology based.

Research limitations/implications

The major implications of the study are related to how behaviour of the workers could be changed to accommodate water use efficiency in their everyday activities. Water saving measures such as leak detection, auditing and sub-metering were favoured by respondents referring to policies and planning, as well as implementing a water action plan when a project begins.

Originality/value

This study makes a contribution to the body of knowledge on the subject of water sustainability at construction projects. This is an understudied area. In addition, the findings will enhance the understanding of construction companies on water use efficiency and should serve as a platform to develop improved and appropriate techniques.
Sustainable management of NHS assets backlog maintenance
Authors: Pantzartzis Efthimia , Deka Lipika , Price Andrew D.F. , Tann Chris , Mills Grant R.W. , Rich-Mahadkar Sameedha
Published: November 2016

Purpose

Lord Carter’s (2015) “Review of Operational Productivity in NHS providers” stated that to improve National Health Service (NHS) England’s efficiency, operational productivity should be targeted in four main areas, one being estates management. NHS England’s estate includes a variety of buildings some of which are considered no longer fit-for-purpose, thus creating risk to patients and staff. These built assets require continuous maintenance, adding pressures to NHS England’s precarious financial situation. The purpose of this paper is to identify positive strategies and major constraints to achieving sustainable management of backlog maintenance (BM) across the NHS assets, and thus suggest balanced actions.

Design/methodology/approach

The research adopts a qualitative approach and combines: literature review of current BM methodologies; interviews with estates and facilities directors from seven NHS trusts on BM strategies; and a NHS trust detailed case study.

Findings

The major finding is that sustainable management of BM is achievable if there is a consistent, pro-active and long-term strategic approach where critical levels of BM are prioritised. Additional issues (i.e. appropriate methodology, performance metrics and links with clinical service delivery strategies) also need to be considered.

Practical implications

This study is relevant to the management of the NHS estate including development and adoption of sustainable strategies.

Originality/value

This paper offers original insights to the factors influencing healthcare estates’ BM at a time when the UK policy agenda is targeting infrastructure operational efficiency and organisations are seeking more comprehensive methodologies.
Green business models transformation: evidence from the UK construction sector
Authors: Abuzeinab Amal , Arif Mohammed , Kulonda Dennis J. , Awuzie Bankole Osita
Published: November 2016

Purpose

Sustainability has the potential to bring enormous benefits to our built environment. To release this potential, a change in business models is required. The purpose of this paper is to investigate green business models (GBMs) transformation by adopting five essential elements of green value creation and capture: green value proposition (GVP), target group (TG), key activities (KA), key resources (KR), and financial logic (FL).

Design/methodology/approach

In this qualitative study, 19 semi-structured interviews were conducted. Interviewees were selected purposively. The emergent data were analysed with the aid of themes.

Findings

It was observed that significant effort was being made towards enabling the transformation of certain elements pertinent to green value creation: KA and KR. This was particularly so when compared to other elements like GVP, TG, and FL.

Practical implications

Findings from this study should encourage construction managers to align their extant BMs to green activities hence enabling new approaches to green value creation and capture. Furthermore, the study will aid in improving the environmental and economic positions of the value chain within the construction sector.

Originality/value

This research is one of the few empirical academic works investigating GBMs in the construction sector.
The impact of industry concentration on the market’s ability to anticipate future earnings
Authors: Haw In-Mu , Hu Bingbing , Lee Jay Junghun , Wu Woody
Published: November 2016

Purpose

The existing literature has established the importance of industry concentration in explaining firm performance and information environments. However, little is known about whether and how industry concentration affects investors’ ability to anticipate future earnings. This paper aims to investigate this query by identifying and testing two channels, product market power and intra-industry information transfer, through which industry concentration affects the informativeness of stock returns about future earnings.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper measures the informativeness of stock returns about future earnings by the future earnings response coefficient (FERC)). This study estimates the FERC using a firm-level sample from 38 economies.

Findings

The authors find that industry concentration significantly enhances investors’ ability to predict future earnings. Further tests show that both product market power and intra-industry information transfer contribute to explaining the positive association between industry concentration and the FERC, with the former playing a more salient role. Finally, the authors show that a country’s effective competition law attenuates the positive impact of industry concentration on the FERC by weakening the economic impact of the two underlying channels.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the growing literature on the price-leading-earnings relation, industry concentration and international corporate governance.
Corporate social reporting (CSR) and stakeholder accountability in Bangladesh
Authors: Hossain Md Moazzem , Alam Manzurul
Published: November 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate organisational accountability to less economically powerful stakeholders in the absence of formal corporate social reporting (CSR) guidelines. In addition, this study emphasises the role of administrative and institutional reforms in empowering stakeholders in a developing country context, namely, Bangladesh.

Design/methodology/approach

Consistent with prior literature, this qualitative study collected data through semi-structured interviews with 23 representatives from NGOs, media, civil society, customers, regulators, trade union leaders and employees who are considered as less economically powerful stakeholders. This paper draws on the demand for administrative reforms along with an institutional support structure (Owen et al., 1997) to enhance CSR and corporate accountability.

Findings

The empirical evidence shows that there is a need for a stand-alone mandatory CSR to achieve stakeholder accountability. It also shows that there are demands from “stakeholders to right to know” about the company’s social and environmental performance along with stakeholder engagements. There is a perceived demand for administrative reform along with institutional supports that can contribute to the CSR development in Bangladesh. These administrative reforms would encourage transparent corporate social and environmental practices. Given the socio-economic and vulnerable environmental conditions of Bangladesh, stakeholders in this study suggested contextually relevant CSR guidelines towards greater accountability.

Research limitations/implications

This paper is one of the few engagement-based studies which explore the perceptions of less economically powerful stakeholders towards CSR developments in an emerging economy – Bangladesh. The findings of this study using the theoretical lens of accountability with administrative and institutional reforms lead us to conclude that companies in Bangladesh have low level of CSR towards stakeholder accountability and stakeholder engagements.

Originality/value

The paper contributes to the CSR literature by highlighting the needs of CSR from the stakeholder’s accountability perspective.
Understanding consumers’ relationships with contemporary artworks through identity narratives
Authors: Stavraki Georgia
Published: November 2016

Purpose

This paper focuses on the relationships that consumers develop with experiential objects in the context of the Biennale of Contemporary Art Exhibition, viewed from a dialogical and intersubjective approach. The purpose of this paper is to elaborate on the interpersonal relationships that visitors of the Biennale establish with contemporary artworks and to understand the characteristics of these relationships as well as their role in shaping Biennale visitors’ identity narratives.

Design/methodology/approach

This research employs an instrumental case study that draws on multiple data sources and examines consumers’ relationships with contemporary artworks.

Findings

The case study evidence introduces the relationships that emerged from Biennale visitors’ interactions with contemporary artworks and the identity narratives evolving from these relationships. The findings suggest that Biennale visitors’ relationships with the contemporary artworks take the form of I-thou and I-it relationships. These two modes of interpersonal relationships by entailing different characteristics led investigated visitors to live different types of experiences of contemporary art consumption.

Research limitations/implications

The first limitation of this research is that it focuses on the establishment of interpersonal relationships at the microgenetic level. Further research can provide additional insights by conducting a longitudinal case study. The second limitation is that it provides limited insights into the relationships that are revealed by consumers’ experiences with possessive objects. Future research may examine interpersonal relationships in terms of consumers’ relationships with their brands.

Practical implications

The understanding of visitors’ interactions and relationships with contemporary artworks provides insights into curatorial and marketing practices for such art institutions.

Originality/value

The findings of the current research provide new theoretical insights into the interpersonal relationships that consumers develop with experiential objects and into the distinctive identity narratives that evolve from the establishment of different types of interpersonal relationships.
Case-mix accounting beyond the hospital
Authors: Ng Frederick , Li Isabella
Published: November 2016

Purpose

This paper aims to examine how the customer can be better integrated into case-mix systems for primary healthcare. Case-mix is an established performance management tool in hospitals, and there is growing interest in its extensions into out-of-hospital healthcare.

Design/methodology/approach

Interviews with academics and clinicians are used to explore conceptual foundations for this area. A service-dominant logic perspective is used to problematize the roles of accounting in this complex setting.

Findings

The findings identify that a customer focus is embedded in current primary healthcare thinking, contrasting with the goods-dominant focus in hospitals. This paper identifies diverse objectives and coordinating networks of care as challenges for case-mix.

Research limitations/implications

This paper breaks down the complexity of primary healthcare case-mix into two accounting roles: a “dialogue machine” to understand client objectives and a “learning machine” to understand clients’ networks of resources. The infancy of case-mix for primary healthcare means our interview sample is restricted to a small group of pioneers in the area, within a supply perspective.

Practical implications

Primary healthcare management is a priority area in New Zealand. The findings describe opportunities and challenges for the “dialogue” and “learning” roles of accounting. This paper discusses practical and ideological tensions to be resolved when integrating customers into case-mix systems.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to the limited literature on the use of case-mix accounting outside of hospitals, discussing the role of customers and networks of care. Findings contribute by describing the customer as both a source of, and a means to resolving, complexity.
Drug resistance and cancer stem cells: the shared but distinct roles of hypoxia‐inducible factors HIF1α and HIF2α
Authors: Schöning Jennifer Petra , Monteiro Michael , Gu Wenyi
Published: November 2016

Chemotherapy resistance is a major contributor to poor treatment responses and tumour relapse, the development of which has been strongly linked to the action of cancer stem cells (CSCs). Mounting evidence suggests that CSCs are reliant on low oxygen conditions and hypoxia‐inducible factors 1α and 2α (HIF1α and HIF2α) to maintain their stem cell features. Research in the last decade has begun to clarify the functional differences between the two HIFα subtypes (HIFαs). Here, we review and discuss these differences in relation to CSC‐associated drug resistance. Both HIFαs contribute to CSC survival but play different roles –HIF1α being more responsible for survival functions and HIF2α for stemness traits such as self‐renewal – and are sensitive to different degrees of hypoxia. Failure to account for physiologically relevant oxygen concentrations in many studies may influence the current understanding of the roles of HIFαs. We also discuss how hypoxia and HIFαs contribute to CSC drug resistance via promotion of ABC drug transporters Breast cancer resistance protein (BCRP), MDR1, and MRP1 and through maintenance of quiescence. Additionally, we explore the PI3K/AKT cell survival pathway that may support refractory cancer by promoting CSCs and activating both HIF1α and HIF2α. Accordingly, HIF1α and HIF2α inhibition, potentially via PI3K/AKT inhibitors, could reduce chemotherapy resistance and prevent cancer relapse.
Cognitive performance of older adults in a specialized diabetes clinic
Authors: Schimming Corbett , Luo Xiaodong , Zhang Cen , Sano Mary
Published: November 2016

Background

Diabetes mellitus is a risk factor for cognitive changes, but assessment for cognitive disorders in this population is performed infrequently. The present study examined the frequency of cognitive disorders and patterns of deficit in patients enrolled in a specialized clinic for diabetes.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study was conducted to assess cognition in Mount Sinai Diabetes Center patients. Thirty eligible subjects aged ≥50 years were assessed and compared with non‐diabetic cognitively normal control subjects, as well as non‐diabetic subjects with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). The main outcome(s) and measure(s) were obtained through cognitive assessment and diagnosis using the Alzheimer's Disease Centers’ uniform data set.

Results

Forty percent of subjects were newly diagnosed with a cognitive disorder: 10% were diagnosed with dementia and 30% with MCI. Diabetic subjects performed worse on the Mini‐Mental State Examination (27.2 vs 28.4; P = 0.0132), list generation (9.5 vs 12.2; P = 0.0190), Trail Making Test, Parts A (70.1 vs 43.0; P < 0.0001) and B (197.2 vs 123.6; P < 0.0001), and the Digit Symbol test (12.7 vs 40.1; P < 0.0001) than cognitively normal individuals. Compared with subjects with MCI (amnestic type), diabetic subjects performed better on tasks of immediate and delayed recall (11.2 vs 7.3 [P = 0.0048] and 8.4 vs. 4.1 [P = 0.0003], respectively).

Conclusions

Undiagnosed cognitive disorders are common and underappreciated in patients being treated in a specialized diabetes clinic. It may be important to make cognitive assessment a standard part of patient assessments.
Continuous ventilation during intubation through a supraglottic airway device guided by fiberoptic bronchoscopy: a observational assessment
Authors: Landsdalen H. E. , Berge M. , Kristensen F. , Guttormsen A. B. , Søfteland E.
Published: November 2016

Introduction

supraglottic airway devices remain, despite advances in video laryngoscopy, important tools in the management of unexpected difficult airways. Intubation through a functioning supraglottic airway device with the aid of a fiberoptic bronchoscope is a well‐known technique usually performed in apnoea. With a simple modification, the patient can be ventilated during this procedure.

Methods

In this observational study, Tracheal intubation Assisted by Bronchoscopy And Sad during Continuous Oxygenation (TABASCO) was performed as part of department training routine in 26 elective, fasted patients. A supraglottic airway device was used as a conduit for an endotracheal tube.

Results

All patients were easily intubated and ventilation was maintained during the procedure. The gap between the outer diameter of the fiberoptic bronchoscope and the inner diameter of the endotracheal tube was more than 2 mm in 25 of 26 patients. Effective ventilation was confirmed by clinical signs, capnography and pressure‐volume curves. No signs of airtrapping occurred.

Discussion

No adverse events were observed during this form of airway management in this small series of elective and fasted patient when performed by an anaesthesiologist experienced in fiberoptic intubation. A gap between fiberoptic bronchoscope and endotracheal tube inner lumen seems to be prerequisite for easy ventilation through the supraglottic airway. In trained hands, this technique can be a means to secure an airway with an intubating bronchoscope without pausing ventilations. A prerequisite for this is a well‐functioning supraglottic airway device.
An Examination of the Relationship Between Consequence‐Specific Normative Belief Patterns and Alcohol‐Related Consequences Among College Students
Authors: Reavy Racheal , Cleveland Michael J. , Mallett Kimberly A. , Scaglione Nichole M. , Sell Nichole M. , Turrisi Rob
Published: November 2016

Background

Research has previously identified a high‐risk subgroup of college students who experience high levels of multiple and repeated alcohol‐related consequences (MRC group). The purpose of this study was to examine the association between consequence‐specific normative influences and experiencing multiple and repeated drinking‐related consequences using a person‐centered approach. Normative subgroups were identified using latent profile analysis (LPA), which were then used to predict MRC group status at 6‐month follow‐up.

Methods

First‐year college student drinkers (N = 2,024) at a large northeastern university completed online surveys during the fall and spring semesters of their freshman year. Retention was high with 92% of invited participants completing T2, of which the MRC group accounted for 27%.

Results

Three student profiles were identified from LPA on T1 data: Nonpermissive Parents (77%), Positive Peer and Parent Norms (21%), and Permissive Parents (3%). Logistic regression revealed that both the Positive Peer and Parent Norms and Permissive Parents profiles had significantly higher odds of MRC group membership at follow‐up (1.81 and 2.78 times greater, respectively).

Conclusions

The results suggest value in prevention efforts that include normative beliefs about alcohol‐related consequences. Further, parental norms in particular have the potential to enhance interventions, especially through direct communication of disapproval for experiencing consequences.