bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Office design processes, strategizing and time intermingling: an agenda to shape spaces and minds in public accounting firms
Authors: Picard Claire-France , Durocher Sylvain , Gendron Yves
Published: June 2020

Purpose

This paper investigates the strategic processes surrounding the development, in accounting firms, of office (re)design projects and their overarching objectives.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors’ investigation relies on a series of interviews with individuals from different accounting firms involved in the decision process related to office (re)design projects. A triangular template made up of strategy, space and time informs the analysis, which the authors complement by relying on a strategy-as-practice integrated framework.

Findings

The authors found that accounting firm office (re)design projects are characterized by a strategic spatial agenda that aims to define and create present organizational time, in ways that embed a particular vision of the future. The analysis brings to light the interrelationships between strategy practitioners, strategy practices and strategic work through which the future is actualized. Office design processes involve not only the physical transformation of office space; they also promote a prominent agenda to modify, in the long run, office members' minds. Hence, office (re)design processes may be conceived of as a significant device in the socialization of accounting practitioners.

Research limitations/implications

This study underscores that spatial strategizing constitutes a major device through which the future is brought into the present. As such, the analysis provides insights not only into the processes through which space transformations take place, but also into their underlying agenda. The latter promotes the advent, in present time, of the organic office of the future.

Practical implications

This analysis brings to the fore a concrete illustration of how the strategy-space-time triangle operates in organizational life. The authors underline the key role played by strategists in charge of designing the office of the future.

Originality/value

This study extends the burgeoning literature whose analytical gaze is informed by the strategy, space, and time triangle.
Mitigating and adapting to climate change: attitudinal and behavioural challenges in South Asia
Authors: Alvi Shahzad , Khayyam Umer
Published: June 2020

Purpose

This study aims to examine peoples’ perception of climate change. It assessed their attitude, behavioural motivation for mitigating and adapting to climate change in the two capital cities of South Asia: Islamabad in Pakistan and Dhaka in Bangladesh.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used the quantitative research technique based on responses of 800 close-ended questions embedded in a close-ended questionnaire, which were filled-out from randomly selected sample of respondents. The primary data was analysed and presented through tabulation. For binary dependent variables, the standardised logistic coefficients were projected for more reliable estimates.

Findings

The findings reveal that the population of both capital cities have a low personal perception of climate change. Also, the dwellers of both cities have a low level of motivation to take mitigative and adaptive measures against climatic hazards. The results of the logistic regression model further indicate that the people who believe that climate change is a threat to their lives are more likely to adopt mitigative and adaptive strategies. This mostly applies to the people with a relatively higher income and education level.

Research limitations/implications

This study implies to create awareness and sensitise the local community in both the capitals and beyond through information dissemination. Further, the availability of toolkits to handle emergencies remains imperative in registering attitudinal and behavioural changes to reduce the impacts of climate variability in poor localities.

Originality/value

This research study analysed the link between climate change mitigation and energy conservation from the societal attributes of perception, motivation, attitude and behaviour, which remains essential for community-based mitigation against climatic hazards.
Determinants of crowdfunding intention in a developing economy: ex-ante evidence from Bangladesh
Authors: Munim Ziaul Haque , Shneor Rotem , Adewumi Olugbenga Michael , Shakil Mohammad Hassan
Published: June 2020

Purpose

SME funding gaps in developing economies are substantial. Crowdfunding is an innovative way to raise funds that may be part of the solution for closing such gaps. The purpose of this study is to investigate the determinants of crowdfunding contribution intentions in the context of a developing country –Bangladesh.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors collect data by using a structured questionnaire distributed through Facebook. The analysis is based on data collected from 252 valid responses and uses the ordered probit regression for estimation. For robustness, the authors also estimate the hypothesized model using ordered logistic regression and OLS regression finding identical results.

Findings

The authors find that liking the campaign idea and positive media coverage of a crowdfunding campaign have a positive association with crowdfunding contribution intention. Surprisingly, personal relations, others' recommendation and the location of the campaign's owner were not significantly associated with crowdfunding contribution intention in our study. Moreover, respondents' location in Bangladesh (vs. abroad) and their age are positively associated with contribution intention, while education is negatively associated with intention.

Originality/value

Earlier studies focused on the determinants of ex post crowdfunding intentions in developed and more mature crowdfunding markets. The authors contribute by examiningex antecrowdfunding contribution intentions in the developing economy of Bangladesh, which is at the market's inception stage.
Exploring determinants of consumers' attitudes toward real-time bidding (RTB) advertising
Authors: Zhang Sixuan , Wakefield Robin , Huang Jinsong , Li Xi
Published: June 2020

Purpose

Since its inception in 2009, the growth of real-time bidding (RTB) advertising has been dramatic. Yet, there is a dearth of research in the information system (IS) literature despite the potential for negative e-commerce outcomes. The purpose of this paper is to identify salient antecedents of users’ attitude toward RTB advertisements.

Design/methodology/approach

A research model was constructed and tested with data from 437 respondents. SmartPLS 3.0, a partial least square (PLS) structural equation modeling (SEM) tool, was used to evaluate the research model and test the hypotheses.

Findings

The findings indicate that user attitude is determined by opposing influences from the cognitive and affective attributes of an RTB advertisement. A surprise is found to elicit greater perception of advertisement personalization, timeliness and relevance, as well as privacy and intrusiveness concerns. While RTB advertisement relevance appears to lessen the effect of advertisement intrusiveness, privacy concern is exacerbated when the advertisement is more personalized. The authors discuss the implications of this study for click-through intentions and e-commerce.

Originality/value

At this point in the evolution of RTB advertising, the findings indicate that the surprise generated by the appearance of an RTB advertisement is not currently a “bad” surprise. In addition, the formation of positive user attitude toward RTB is complex because cognitive factors interact with users' concerns to strengthen or weaken the negative effects. The authors also demonstrate that attitude and stimulus–organism–response (S–O–R) theories are useful theoretical bases for the development of causal models to predict RTB attitude and click-through intentions.
Trade show networks, trust and organizational learning: the effect of network ties
Authors: Bettis-Outland Harriette , Mora Cortez Roberto , Johnston Wesley J.
Published: June 2020

Purpose

This paper aims to evaluate the behavior of micro and macro business networks in a trade show context. The following questions are addressed: How do business networks impact organizational learning at trade shows? Can relational ties between networks influence organizational learning? Does trust play a role between different network types and organizational learning?

Design/methodology/approach

The theoretical framework for this research is based on the broad spectrum of social exchange theory (Cropanzano and Mitchell, 2005; Foa and Foa, 1974, 1980; Kelley and Thibault, 1978; Kelley, 1997). Social exchange theory has several different interpretations; one common view of this theory involves a series of interactions that result in obligations for the participating members (Emerson, 1976; Cropanzano and Mitchell, 2005). This model extends the Levin and Cross (2004) model presented in their article, “strength of weak ties you can trust: the mediating role of trust in effective knowledge transfer”.

Findings

This paper is a review and synthesis of trade show, trust, organizational learning and business network literature. This conceptual paper concludes with eight propositions, which delve into connections between micro and macro networks, strong and weak ties in these networks and the effect on organizational learning. Trust is the mediating variable between networks and organizational learning. High levels of trust could change the learning approach (adaptive, generative or transformative) of the different networks.

Research limitations/implications

The propositions integrate extant research on trade shows and will guide future research regarding the relationship between types of business networks, trust and organizational learning.

Practical implications

This conceptual paper looks at trade shows from a network perspective; specifically, how do trade show networks impact organizational learning. Trade show participation results in different approaches to organizational learning, which can be modified based on the level of trust that exists between network members. Trade show participation enables both adaptive and generative learning. However, atypical interactions between business networks occasionally produce transformative learning.

Originality/value

This conceptual paper offers an innovative approach to trade show research by analyzing the relationship between trade shows and organizational learning from a network perspective, using trust as the mediating variable.
Marketing-specific intellectual capital: conceptualization, scale development and empirical illustration
Authors: Peñalba-Aguirrezabalaga Carmela , Sáenz Josune , Ritala Paavo
Published: June 2020

Purpose

The aims of this paper are to identify and classify the knowledge resources that shape intellectual capital (IC) within the marketing function, to develop and validate a related scale and to demonstrate the scale's applicability in an empirical context.

Design/methodology/approach

A literature-based approach was adopted to identify and classify knowledge assets in the field of marketing. The new scale's content was then tested in a number of companies with different profiles. A subsequent survey of a representative sample of 346 Spanish firms sought to validate the scale and to assess those companies' marketing-related IC.

Findings

The literature search provided the basis for a marketing-related IC architecture comprising three main categories, nine subcategories and eighty items whose validity was tested and confirmed. The survey revealed that marketing-specific human capital (HC) is the most developed knowledge resource in Spanish firms, followed by marketing-specific relational capital (RC), while marketing-specific structural capital (SC) is the least developed. Significant differences were also found among companies with different profiles (B2C vs B2B, high-tech vs low-tech and manufacturing vs services).

Originality/value

This study makes a valuable contribution to the IC literature as one of the first to deploy the general IC framework in a specific functional area (here: marketing and sales) for more meaningful and in-depth assessment of firm-specific knowledge resources.
Intellectual capital and corporate governance: an evaluation of Oman's financial sector companies
Authors: Dalwai Tamanna , Mohammadi Syeeda Shafiya
Published: June 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to empirically investigate the relationship between intellectual capital and corporate governance of Oman's financial sector companies. Intellectual capital has been found to successfully contribute to the economic wealth creation of firms in germane literature. Unfortunately, financial statements do not necessarily capture and reflect the contributions of intellectual capital, thereby leading to an information asymmetry between companies and users of financial statements. The research also investigates the relationship between corporate governance and intellectual capital efficiency across various financial subsectors.

Design/methodology/approach

Data are collected from annual reports available on Muscat Securities Market for 31 listed financial sector companies for the period 2012 to 2016 and analyzed using a multiple regression model. Intellectual capital is measured using Pulic's efficiency measure of value-added intellectual coefficient (VAIC). Corporate governance individual components such as board characteristics, audit committee characteristics and ownership structure are presented as independent variables.

Findings

The findings suggest that board size and frequency of audit committee meetings have a significant association with the intellectual capital efficiency of Oman's financial sector. VAIC and human capital efficiency of banks are also significantly influenced by most of the corporate governance mechanisms; however, other subsectors do not report such findings. Corporate governance of banks in comparison to other subsectors effectively engages in utilizing the potential of intellectual capital efficiency. Agency theory and resource dependency theory find limited support as a result of this study. The GMM results are not robust to the alternative instruments.

Research limitations/implications

The sample size is small as the study is limited to the listed financial sector of Oman. Future studies can be extended to include all of Oman's or GCC’s listed companies. Additionally, the intellectual capital is measured using the construct of VAIC which suffers some limitations and can be overcome using other tools such as content analysis.

Practical implications

The findings of this study suggest that Oman's regulators can create an awareness strategy on highlighting the importance of intellectual capital for companies (board of directors and managers), investors, debtors and creditors. Further, Oman's Capital Market Authority and Muscat Securities Market need to strengthen the regulations related to intellectual capital.

Originality/value

This study extends intellectual capital and corporate governance literature by presenting the research outcome for Oman's financial sector. It is useful for Oman's financial sector companies to direct corporate governance measures for driving value creation of firms through the management of intellectual capital efficiency.
Measures that matter: an empirical investigation of intellectual capital and financial performance of banking firms in Indonesia
Authors: Soewarno Noorlailie , Tjahjadi Bambang
Published: June 2020

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the intellectual capital–financial performance relationship using two models, namely the conventional Value-Added Intellectual Coefficient (VAIC) model and the adjusted Value-Added Intellectual Coefficient (A-VAIC) model.

Design/methodology/approach

This study is designed as a quantitative research focusing on the relationship between intellectual capital and financial performance of the banking industry in Indonesia. As many as 114 data are derived from the publicly listed banks on the Indonesia Stock Exchange for the period of 2012–2017. The multiple regression analysis is employed to test the hypotheses studied.

Findings

In general, the result confirms that intellectual capital affects financial performance. Although not all hypotheses of the study are supported by either the VAIC model or the A-VAIC model, the results provide a deeper and new insight on how each component of intellectual capital efficiency (human capital, structural capital, capital employed, innovation capital) relates to financial performance (return on asset, return on equity, asset turnover, price to book ratio). The results also justify that further improvements in measuring intellectual capital are still needed in the future.

Research limitations/implications

This study limits its generalization since the sample is only in the Indonesian banking industry. Notwithstanding the limitation, the results imply that the Indonesian banking managers need to be aware of intellectual capital management because of its strategic role in enhancing financial performance.

Practical implications

This study contributes to the intellectual capital literature by providing empirical evidence on the use of both models, namely the conventional VAIC and the A-VAIC in the Indonesian banking industry research setting which is never been studied before.

Social implications

This study has the social implication to the enhancement of the quality life of the society. The higher the quality of intellectual capital in the banking firms, the better the banks serve the needs of the community.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the IC literature by providing empirical research on the use of the VAIC model and the A-VAIC model in the Indonesian banking industry.
Effects of layer thickness in laser-powder bed fusion of 420 stainless steel
Authors: Nath Subrata Deb , Gupta Gautam , Kearns Martin , Gulsoy Ozkan , Atre Sundar V.
Published: June 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate effects of layer thickness on densification, surface morphology, microstructure and mechanical and corrosion properties of 420 stainless steel fabricated by laser-powder bed fusion (L-PBF).

Design/methodology/approach

Standard specimens were printed at layer thickness of 10, 20 and 30 µm to characterize Archimedes density, surface roughness, tensile strength, elongation, hardness, microstructural phases and corrosion performance in the as-printed and heat-treated condition.

Findings

Archimedes density slightly increased from 7.67 ± 0.02 to 7.70 ± 0.02g/cm3 and notably decreased to 7.35 ± 0.05 g/cm3 as the layer thickness was changed from 20 µm to 10 and 30 µm, respectively. The sensitivity to layer thickness variation was also evident in properties, the ultimate tensile strength of as-printed parts increased from 1050 ± 25 MPa to 1130 ± 35 MPa and decreased to 760 ± 35 MPa, elongation increased from 2.5 ± 0.2% to 2.8 ± 0.3% and decreased to 1.5 ± 0.2, and hardness increased from 55 ± 1 HRC to 57 ± 1 HRC and decreased to 51 ± 1 HRC, respectively. Following heat treatment, the ultimate tensile strength and elongation improved but the general trends of effects of layer thickness remained the same.

Practical implications

Properties obtained by L-PBF are superior to reported properties of 420 stainless steel fabricated by metal injection molding and comparable to wrought properties.

Originality/value

This study successfully the sensitivity of mechanical and corrosion properties of the as-printed and heat-treated parts to not only physical density but also microstructure (martensite content and tempering), as a result of changing the layer thickness. This manuscript also demonstrates porosity evolution as a combination of reduced energy flux and lower packing density for parts processed at an increasing layer thickness.
Developing robust protein analysis profiles to identify bacterial acid phosphatases in genomes and metagenomic libraries
Authors: Udaondo Zulema , Duque Estrella , Daddaoua Abdelali , Caselles Carlos , Roca Amalia , Pizarro‐Tobias Paloma , Ramos Juan L.
Published: June 2020

Phylogenetic analysis of more than 4000 annotated bacterial acid phosphatases was carried out. Our analysis enabled us to sort these enzymes into the following three types: (1) class B acid phosphatases, which were distantly related to the other types, (2) class C acid phosphatases and (3) generic acid phosphatases (GAP). Although class B phosphatases are found in a limited number of bacterial families, which include known pathogens, class C acid phosphatases and GAP proteins are found in a variety of microbes that inhabit soil, fresh water and marine environments. As part of our analysis, we developed three profiles, named Pfr‐B‐Phos, Pfr‐C‐Phos and Pfr‐GAP, to describe the three groups of acid phosphatases. These sequence‐based profiles were then used to scan genomes and metagenomes to identify a large number of formerly unknown acid phosphatases. A number of proteins in databases annotated as hypothetical proteins were also identified by these profiles as putative acid phosphatases. To validate these in silico results, we cloned genes encoding candidate acid phosphatases from genomic DNA or recovered from metagenomic libraries or genes synthesized in vitro based on protein sequences recovered from metagenomic data. Expression of a number of these genes, followed by enzymatic analysis of the proteins, further confirmed that sequence similarity searches using our profiles could successfully identify previously unknown acid phosphatases.
Conceptualising policy for sustainable agriculture development
Authors: Clune Timothy
Published: June 2020

Policy frameworks supporting sustainable agriculture development are critical in the delivery of the food and fibre needs of a burgeoning global population. A sustainable and resilient Australian agriculture sector is considered essential if it is to capitalise on the world's growing food and fibre needs. However, an increasingly dynamic climate, changing demographics of regional Australia, and economic factors in a global market constrain sustainable development of the agriculture sector. Although current policy supports investment in research and development and infrastructure, action to increase market access and competitiveness, as well as a suite of agricultural welfare options, it is flawed in its failure to contemplate the relative readiness of individuals and businesses to act on the interventions of government. This paper proposes the adoption of the capability approach to refocus the policy framework to prioritise delivery of outcomes that are valued by individuals and businesses. It proposes a conceptual model that provides a scalable, continuous improvement structure against which policy action can be implemented, monitored, evaluated, and adapted enabling design of more holistic agriculture policy settings that support the sustainable development of the sector and ensure that it can capture the opportunities of future global food and fibre demand.
Independent review of emergency economic stimulus measures: Global Financial Crisis and COVID‐19
Authors: Wilkins Peter , Gilchrist David , Phillimore John
Published: June 2020

Major government emergency interventions demand, and generally receive, independent scrutiny. This article looks back at reviews of the Australian government's economic stimulus measures introduced in the aftermath of the 2008 Global Financial Crisis (GFC), in anticipation of reviews of responses to the COVID‐19 emergency, noting similarities and differences between the two crises. We examine 10 independent reviews of the Australian government's response to the GFC with a particular focus on their nature and the context in which they occurred. As a result, we identify five themes: when and how often reviews are conducted; recognition of context; the need for clear program objectives; explicit design principles; and governance. We develop a typology of independent reviews that has three key and interrelated dimensions: purpose, timing, and reviewer. We observe that there was patchwork coverage of the GFC measures, with no single report providing a holistic assessment of what was achieved or lessons learnt. We contend that, notwithstanding differences between crises, the typology will aid understanding of the role, key issues, and contributions of reviews that have already been, or will be, commissioned into COVID‐19 and future emergency economic stimulus measures.
Mortality and renal prognosis in isolated metformin‐associated lactic acidosis treated with continuous renal replacement therapy and citrate‐calcium‐anticoagulation
Authors: Uusalo Panu , Järvisalo Mikko J.
Published: June 2020

Introduction

Use of metformin increases plasma lactate concentration and may lead to metformin‐associated lactic acidosis (MALA). Previous studies have suggested severe MALA to have a mortality of 17%‐21%, but have included patients with other coincident conditions such as sepsis. The treatment of choice is continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT), which has been performed using heparin analogues or no anticoagulation in former studies.

Materials and Methods

Patients admitted to the Intensive Care Unit of Turku University Hospital Finland with lactic acidosis without any other recognizable etiology than concomitant metformin treatment who required CRRT between years 2010 and 2019 were included. CRRT was performed using regional citrate‐calcium‐anticoagulation. Data extracted included patient demographics, comorbidities, and clinical parameters at 6‐hour intervals about 72 hours from admission. Creatinine and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) were measured at 1 year after MALA.

Results

A total of 23 patients with isolated MALA were included in the study. Median (IQR) pH was 6.88 (6.81‐7.07) and lactate 16.1 (11.9‐23.0) mmol/L on admission. Median (IQR) duration of CRRT was 62 (41‐70) hours. Seven patients (30%) required mechanical ventilation with a mean duration of 6.0 ± 3.0 days. 90‐day mortality was 4.3% and 1‐year mortality 13.0%. Creatinine (P = .02) and eGFR (P = .03) remained significantly altered at 1 year of follow‐up compared to baseline.

Conclusions

MALA can be treated effectively and safely with CRRT and citrate‐calcium‐anticoagulation, usually required for 2‐3 days. Mortality of patients with MALA treated with CRRT is low when other conditions inducing lactic acidosis are excluded. MALA episode may be associated with long‐lasting kidney injury.
Antinuclear antibodies in follicular fluid may reduce efficacy of in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer by invading endometrium and granular cells
Authors: Li Ying , Wang Yipeng , Lan Yonglian , Zhang Jun , Liang Yu , Wang Shuyu
Published: June 2020

Problem

The mechanism(s) by which antinuclear antibodies (ANA) induce implantation failure are not clear, and little information regarding the function of autoantibodies in reproductive tissues is available.

Methods of Study

A total of 380 patients who underwent in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer (IVF‐ET) were divided into control, serum positive, and follicular fluid (FF) positive groups based on the results of indirect immunofluorescence assay for ANA in the serum and FF. Immunofluorescence assay was performed to evaluate the existence of ANA in granular cells and endometrial tissues. Presence in FF of soluble apoptotic markers, including Bcl‐2, Caspase‐3, cleaved PARP, Cytochrome C, GAPDH, and p53, was assessed using magnetic bead based assays.

Results

The patients in the FF positive group had the lowest numbers of retrieved oocytes, fertilizations, and high‐quality embryos. The fertilization rate, and the proportion of two pronuclear (2PN) embryos in patients in the FF positive group were significantly lower than those in the other two groups. The FF positive group also had the lowest clinical pregnancy rate, and the highest early miscarriage rate. Granulosa cells and endometrial tissues in patients in the FF positive group were ANA positive. High levels of BCL‐2, Caspase‐3, Cytochrome C, GAPDH, and p53 were found in the FF of patients in the FF positive group.

Conclusions

Antinuclear antibodies in FF and endometrial tissues may cause imbalanced apoptosis, resulting in poor IVF‐ET treatment outcomes. Local autoimmunity and cell apoptosis in reproductive tissues could be considered new therapeutic targets for improving IVF‐ET treatment efficacy.
Dysregulated cytokine profile associated with biochemical premature ovarian insufficiency
Authors: Liu Peihao , Zhang Xiruo , Hu Jingmei , Cui Linlin , Zhao Shidou , Jiao Xue , Qin Yingying
Published: June 2020

Problem

Premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) imposes great challenge on female reproduction. Whether immune disturbance in ovarian environment was implicated in POI remains unclear. We aimed to characterize the cytokine profile in follicular fluid (FF) and paired serum in patients with biochemical POI (bPOI).

Method of study

Multiplex immunoassay containing 45 cytokines was performed for individual FF and paired serum samples from 35 bPOI patients and 37 matched controls. Cytokine profiles were compared between the two groups and cytokines correlated to ovarian reserve, and the rates of day‐3 good‐quality embryos were further analyzed.

Results

In FF, significantly elevated level of chemokines MIP‐1α (P = .043), CXCL8 (P = .024), IP‐10 (P = .041), and eotaxin‐1 (P = .015) as well as growth factors VEGF‐D (P = .047), BDNF (P = .043), LIF (P = .002), and bFGF (P = .046) was found in bPOI patients compared to controls. Yet RANTES manifested an opposite trend with reduced levels among bPOI patients (P = .006). All these chemokines and growth factors in FF were significantly correlated with ovarian reserve (P < .05). In paired serum, cytokine signature was not likely accordant with that in FF between two groups, except for increased IP‐10 (P = .032) in bPOI patients and its significant correlation to FSH and AFC (P < .05). Among all differentially expressed cytokines, RANTES in FF was correlated with the rate of day‐3 good‐quality embryos (P = .035).

Conclusion

Altered cytokine profile characterized by increased chemokines and growth factors was associated with early stage of POI, which may fuel the progression of the disease or even play a crucial role in the development of ovarian insufficiency.
Usefulness of Morphology‐Voltage‐P‐wave duration (MVP) score as a predictor of atrial fibrillation recurrence after pulmonary vein isolation
Authors: Yang Na , Yan Ning , Cong Guangzhi , Yang Zhen , Wang Mohan , Jia Shaobin
Published: June 2020

Background

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is known to be the most common arrhythmia, and the successful rate of long‐term ablation can vary comparatively. Therefore, a clinical scoring system to predict rhythm outcome remains a critical unmet need. The electrocardiographic (ECG) risk score which is named Morphology‐Voltage‐P‐wave duration (MVP) score was reported to be useful for predicting new‐onset AF. The goal of the current study was to investigate whether the MVP score was a useful scheme in the prediction of rhythm outcome following pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) in paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (PAF).

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed baseline characteristics, risk scores, and rates of AF recurrence 12 months postablation in the medical records of 207 consecutive patients with PAF undergoing PVI in General Hospital of Ningxia medical University from 2010 to 2018.

Results

Two hundred and seven patients (71 females, median age 58.7 years) with symptomatic PAF underwent PVI. From the cohort, 32.3% (67) had a recurrence of AF within 1 year of the PVI. The area of the MVP score under the curve in the receiver operating characteristics (ROC) analysis was 0.789 (95% CI 0.730–0.840, p < .001). A score cut‐off value of >3 showed the best predictive ability for AF recurrence within 1 year after PVI, with sensitivity (53.03%) and specificity (89.87%).

Conclusions

The results of our study suggest that the easy‐to‐measure ECG MVP score can be used to predict recurrence of PAF after PVI.
Study of anorectal dynamics in patients undergoing laparoscopic ultra‐low resection and transanal intersphincteric resection for rectal cancer
Authors: Yu Si , Deng Jianzhong , Luo Tedong , Zhen Zuojun , Ji Yong
Published: June 2020

Background

Quite a few studies on anal functions after open total mesorectal excision combined with transanal intersphincteric resection (ISR) have been reported, but there is little literature on anal function after laparoscopic total mesorectal excision (LTME) combined with transanal ISR. The aim of this study was to explore the post‐operative anorectal dynamic changes in ultra‐low rectal cancer patients undergoing LTME combined with transanal ISR.

Methods

The data of 26 ultra‐low rectal cancer patients undergoing LTME + transanal ISR were analysed. A total of 30 patients undergoing laparoscopic low anterior resection by the same surgeons during the same period were randomly enrolled into the control group.

Results

There were no differences in the preoperative anorectal manometry data and Wexner anal function scores between the observation group and the control group (P > 0.05). There were no significant differences in the mean operation time, the mean amount of bleeding and the mean post‐operative hospital stay between the two groups (P > 0.05). The mean follow‐up time was 16 months. No recurrence and metastasis were found in all cases. At 3 and 6 months after the operation, there were significant differences in the anorectal manometry data and Wexner anal function scores between the two groups (P < 0.05). However, at 1 year after the operation, there were no significant differences in the anorectal manometry data and Wexner anal function scores between the two groups (P > 0.05).

Conclusion

Laparoscopic ISR for ultra‐low rectal cancer is technically feasible, but the surgical indications should be strictly defined.
Risk factors for mortality after emergency laparotomy: scoping systematic review
Authors: Barazanchi Ahmed W. H. , Xia Weisi , MacFater Wiremu , Bhat Sameer , MacFater Hoani , Taneja Ashish , Hill Andrew G.
Published: June 2020

Background

Emergency laparotomy (EL) is a common procedure with high mortality leading to several efforts to record and reduce mortality. Risk scores currently used by quality improvement programmes either require intraoperative data or are not specific to EL. To be of utility to clinicians/patients, estimation of preoperative risk of mortality is important. We aimed to explore individual preoperative risk factors that might be of use in developing a preoperative mortality risk score.

Methods

Two independent reviewers identified relevant articles from searches of MEDLINE, EMBASE and Cochrane databases from January 1980 to January 2018. We selected studies that evaluated only preoperative predictive factors for mortality in EL patients.

Results

The search yielded 6648 articles screened, with 22 studies included examining 157 728 patients. The combined post‐operative 30‐day mortality was 13%. All, but one small study, were at low risk of bias. A meta‐analysis of results was not possible due to the heterogeneity of populations and outcomes. Age, American Society of Anesthesiologists, preoperative sepsis, dependency status, current cancer and comorbidities were associated with increased mortality. Acute physiological derangements seen in renal, albumin and complete blood count assays were strongly associated with mortality. Delay to surgery and diabetes did not influence mortality. Higher body mass index was protective.

Conclusion

Preoperatively, risk factors identified can be used to develop and update risk scores specific for EL mortality. This scoping review focused on the preoperative setting which helps tailor treatment decisions. It highlights the need for further research to test the relevance of newer risk factors such as frailty and nutrition.
Correlation between computed tomography volumetry and nuclear medicine split renal function in live kidney donation: a single‐centre experience
Authors: Hua Lina , Sebben Ruben , Olakkengil Santosh , Russell Christine , Coates Toby , Bhattacharjya Shantanu
Published: June 2020

Background

Potential live renal donors undergo both renal computed tomography angiogram (CTA) and nuclear imaging dimercaptosuccinic acid (DMSA) scans. Each kidney's renal function and vascular anatomy influences the choice of donor side. Although DMSA measures differential blood flow, it is a surrogate for renal function and nephron mass. Computed tomography techniques can provide volumetry information. The aim of this study was to determine the relationship between measured split renal volumes on computed tomography versus renal volumes derived from DMSA split function in live donors.

Methods

Prospective data of live kidney donors assessed at a single Australian centre from 2014 to 2017 were reviewed. All patients had pre‐operative CTA and DMSA imaging. Renal volume was determined via semi‐automated software calculation from CTA three‐dimensional image reconstructions by one investigator. Measured split renal volume was compared against calculated renal volume using measured DMSA split function (percentage split function multiplied by total renal volume).

Results

Fifty‐three patients were included in the study. Split renal volumes on three‐dimensional CTA images correlate to calculated split volumes determined from DMSA (Pearson coefficient 0.95 for right renal volume, 0.95 for left). The decision of which kidney to remove can be achieved with CTA only. Omitting a DMSA scan would reduce the radiation load by 0.70 mSv (35 chest X‐rays) and potential cost saving of AU$1062.00 per donor.

Conclusion

CTA technology allows accurate assessment of renal volumes that correlate well with DMSA split function. Avoiding a DMSA scan results in cost and radiation reduction in the assessment of a live kidney donor.
Quilting suture versus conventional closure in prevention of seroma after total mastectomy and axillary dissection in breast cancer patients
Authors: Myint Sie Thu , Khaing Khin San , Yee Win , Mon Soe Myat , Lwin Thein
Published: June 2020

Background

Total mastectomy and axillary dissection is a common procedure for breast cancer patients in our institution. Seroma is common. This study aimed to compare the quilting suture and conventional closure in prevention of seroma after total mastectomy and axillary dissection.

Methods

This randomized comparative study was carried out from January 2018 to June 2019 in Yangon General Hospital. One hundred and forty patients (70 conventional and 70 quilting) were included. For quilting group, customized strategically placed interrupted alternate sutures were placed 2–3 cm apart with 3/0 vicryl sutures between skin flap and pectoral muscle.

Results

Age, body mass index and tumour diameter were comparable between the groups. The mean duration of operation was 111.44 ± 7.045 min in conventional and 124.5 ± 6.39 min in quilting (P = 0.0001). The mean drain output for conventional group was not significantly different from quilting group. In quilting, some area developed dimpling which resolved within a week. A total of 21 (30%) patients in the conventional group and 10 patients (14.3%) in the quilting group developed seroma (P = 0.041). The mean frequency and amount of seroma aspiration were significantly lower in the quilting group. Shoulder movement limitation and analgesia use showed no significant difference.

Conclusion

Although total amount of drain output, duration of drain, hospital stay and post‐operative complications were not different, the incidence of seroma was significantly lower in quilting group. Seroma is treated with more ease in the quilting group as the frequency and amount of aspiration were lower and less frequent follow‐up visits were required. Quilting can reduce the seroma incidence in total mastectomy and axillary dissection for breast cancer patients.
Prospective evaluation of the impact of human papilloma virus status and small node size on the diagnostic accuracy of 18F‐fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography for primary head and neck squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Lee Jonathan , Emmett Louise , Tang Reuben , Ho Bao , Earls Peter , Matthews Tim , Gallagher Richard
Published: June 2020

Background

Fluorodeoxyglucose‐positron emission tomography/computed tomography (FDG‐PET/CT) is well validated in the staging of pre‐treatment head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), although the impact of human papilloma virus (HPV) status and node size on accuracy remains unclear. The aim of this study was to assess the diagnostic accuracy of PET/CT based on HPV status and node size and determine the effects of maximum standardized uptake value thresholds on sensitivity, specificity and positive predictive value.

Methods

A total of 38 patients with primary HNSCC were recruited. All patients underwent primary tumour resection and cervical node dissection following FDG‐PET/CT.

Results

A total of 38 patients including 68 dissected necks, representing 353 nodal levels and a total of 2701 lymph nodes were included. Histopathological analysis revealed lymph node metastases in 4.3% (116/2701) of dissected lymph nodes. Forty‐four percent of patients had HPV‐positive tumours. Sixty‐four percent of involved lymph nodes were <1 cm. The sensitivity and specificity for HPV‐positive nodes were 67.2% and 99.3% versus 35.6% and 98.2% in HPV‐negative nodes, respectively (P < 0.001). Mean maximum standardized uptake value in HPV‐positive nodes was 6.3 versus 3.5 in HPV‐negative nodes (P < 0.001). Sensitivity and specificity were 30.7% and 99.2% in <1 cm nodes versus 90.2% and 84.8% in ≥1 cm nodes, respectively (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

FDG‐PET/CT has significantly higher diagnostic accuracy in determining nodal metastases in HPV‐positive HNSCC versus HPV‐negative disease. Accuracy was lower in <1 versus ≥1 cm nodes.
Assessment of the cervix in pregnant women with a history of cervical insufficiency during the first trimester using elastography
Authors: Chen Chen‐Yu , Chen Chie‐Pein , Sun Fang‐Ju
Published: June 2020

Introduction

To investigate changes in first trimester cervical elastography, cervical length and endocervical canal width in pregnant women with a history of cervical insufficiency, and further discuss the possibility of using these markers as predictors of cervical insufficiency in early pregnancy.

Material and methods

This was an observational ultrasound study of first trimester cervical changes in singleton pregnancies between January 2016 and June 2018. Cervical elastography, cervical length and endocervical canal width were measured during the first trimester. Strain elastography was used to estimate the softness of anterior and posterior cervical lips and was expressed as percentages (strain rate).

Results

Of the 339 pregnant women enrolled, 24 had a history of cervical insufficiency. The anterior cervical lip was significantly softer in the cervical insufficiency group (strain rate: 0.19% ± 0.05% vs 0.11% ± 0.04%; P < .001). Cervical length was significantly shorter in the cervical insufficiency group (36.3 ± 4.8 mm vs 38.3 ± 3.8 mm; P = .014). Endocervical canal width was significantly wider in the cervical insufficiency group (5.7 ± 1.1 mm vs 5.2 ± 0.7 mm; P = .001). Receiver operating characteristic curve analyses revealed that the optimal cut‐off values of anterior cervical lip, cervical length and endocervical canal width to confirm the diagnosis of cervical insufficiency were 0.15%, 35.5 mm and 5.75 mm, respectively. In multivariate logistic regression analysis, significant differences were still observed in anterior cervical strain rate (adjusted odds ratio [OR] 53.78, 95% [confidence interval [CI] 11‐270; P < .001) and endocervical canal width (adjusted OR, 5.41, 95% CI,1.2‐24.7; P = .029).

Conclusions

First trimester cervical elastography is a valuable tool in the assessment of women with a history of cervical insufficiency. The anterior cervical lip was significantly softer in women with a history of cervical insufficiency, and the sensitivity and specificity of anterior cervical lip strain were better than that of cervical length and endocervical canal width.
Palliative and end of life care for a child: Understanding parents’ coping strategies
Authors: Darlington Anne‐Sophie , Randall Duncan , Leppard Lisa , Koh Michelle
Published: June 2020

Aim

Understanding of coping strategies that parents use before the death of their child is crucial and will enable us to best provide support. The current study aimed to explore parents’ coping strategies, and map these onto an existing theoretical framework.

Methods

Bereaved parents and parents of a child with a life‐limiting/threatening condition were interviewed to investigate coping strategies, recruited through Intensive Care Units (2 Neonatal, 2 Paediatric, 1 Paediatric Cardiac) and a children's hospice. Analysis focused on coping strategies and mapping these onto the framework.

Results

24 parents of 20 children were interviewed and identified. Parents use a variety of coping strategies (n = 25) such as humour, staying positive, advocating and staying strong for others, expressing emotions and preparing, while also living life to the full, supported by others. The themes were successfully mapped onto the theoretical framework, which focuses on the constructs of approach and avoidance, as well as coping for self and others.

Conclusion

The findings have provided a detailed account of the breadth and depth of coping strategies parents use, including those classed as avoidance. The strategies were successfully mapped onto the theoretical framework. Future research should investigate changes over times, and associations to negative long‐term outcomes.
When all I wanted was to hold my baby—The experiences of parents of infants who received therapeutic hypothermia
Authors: Bäcke Pyrola , Hjelte Beatrice , Hellström Westas Lena , Ågren Johan , Thernström Blomqvist Ylva
Published: June 2020

Aim

The knowledge is limited about how parents experience the time when their infant is receiving therapeutic hypothermia (TH) after severe perinatal asphyxia. The aim of this study was to explore parents’ experience of closeness and involvement in their infant's care while in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) with their newborn undergoing TH.

Methods

Face‐to‐face, semi‐structured interviews were conducted with parents (n = 11) whose infants (n = 8, aged 3‐5 years at the time of the study) underwent TH at a level III Swedish NICU during 2013‐2016. The interviews were analysed using qualitative content analysis.

Results

All the parents shared the trauma of being both physically and psychologically separated from their infant. They all described a need for information and emotional support, and reported that the NICU staff had influenced the extent to which they as parents had been able to be near and actively participate in the care. Parents described the wish to be closer to their infant and to be more actively involved in their infant's care.

Conclusion

Strategies to enable parent‐infant closeness and active guidance from staff might help alleviate the emotional stress of parents and promote their participation during TH.
Nephrotic syndrome and pulmonary hypertension as complications of intravenous drug abuse
Authors: Mohan Janany , Nybø Camilla J. , Vegsundvåg Johnny , Roald Borghild , Liem Ylian S.
Published: June 2020

This case report discusses a patient with nephrotic syndrome, pulmonary hypertension, and repeated episodes of infections. He had a history of intravenous drug abuse. Kidney biopsy revealed the rare finding of numerous foam cells, mainly in glomeruli. The solvent used for the drugs is thought to be responsible for the foam cells. In line with previous reports, we suspect that the pulmonary hypertension is consistent with foam cells in pulmonary capillaries or fat embolism syndrome due to the intravenous administered drugs. Our case demonstrates that the use of intravenous drugs can lead to widely varying symptoms. Globally, the prevalence of substance abuse is increasing. Knowledge about their damaging effects is crucial in both clinical practice and anatomic pathology.