bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intrinsically motivating idiosyncratic deals and innovative work behaviour
Authors: Kimwolo Andrew , Cheruiyot Thomas
Published: August 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to determine the effect of intrinsically motivating idiosyncratic deals (I-deals) on innovative work behaviour (IWB) among tied life insurance agents in Kenya.

Design/methodology/approach

Standard multiple regression analysis was used to test the hypotheses from data collected from a field study from 498 employees and 48 managers.

Findings

The study findings showed a positive relationship between both flexibility I-deals and IWB (ß = 0.461, p < 0.00) and between task and responsibilities I-deals and IWB (ß = 0.171, p < 0.01).

Research/limitations/implications

The cross-sectional collection of data weakens the author’s claim of causality between the variables in focus. The study extends literature on the effects of flexibility as well as tasks and responsibilities I-deals on IWB.

Practical implications

Organizations must grant their employees with intrinsically motivating I-deals in order for display of IWB.

Social implications

These I-deals provided intrinsic motivation of the employees in displaying IWB in the organizations. The exchange relationship with the employers got enhanced through their granting motivating employees to look for new ways of doing their work.

Originality/value

This is the first study to investigate a linear relationship between intrinsically motivating I-deals and IWB.
Leaping into public leadership
Authors: Nahavandi Afsaneh , Corbett Lyn
Published: August 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the reasons for and consequences of leaders moving from other sectors to the public arena and provide guidelines for successful transitions to the public sector.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper relies on a conceptual analysis of leadership theory, critical reasoning and several examples to explore the phenomenon the authors call Leadership Leap (LL).

Findings

The paper explores the context, antecedents, causes and consequences of LL. The leaders’ self-confidence, ego and hubris are often considered to be the reason for leaping to an unfamiliar sector; however, the causes are much more complex. The authors suggest that in addition to the leaders’ personal characteristics, LL is encouraged by a culture of celebrity, excessive focus on the leaders and a longing for heroes. Ignoring or disregarding the context and overestimating the need for revolutionary change further exacerbate LL. The authors consider conditions for success and suggest areas for future research.

Originality/value

We are increasingly witnessing leaders who are successful and considered experts in one sector transition into the public sector. Although some are successful, others face obstacles and fail to live up to expectations. The unique characteristics of public leadership, specifically the collective nature of the sector and the crucial role of context and systems, provide a particular challenge for LL in the sector.
Inter-linkages between remittance and savings in Ghana
Authors: Quartey Peter , Ackah Charles , Lambon-Quayefio Monica Puoma
Published: August 2018

Purpose

The increase in volumes and circulation of internal and international remittances have become a substantial part of resource flow for economic development especially in developing countries with a significant impact on household welfare. The purpose of this paper is to examine the relationship between remittances and savings mobilization.

Design/methodology/approach

Using the most recent wave of the Ghana Living Standard Survey data, the study accounts for the endogeneity in remittance receipts by employing treatment effect estimators, in addition to a probit model to establish the relationship between remittances and likelihood of savings.

Findings

The results suggest that receiving remittances significantly affects household’s propensity to save. Households that receive international remittances seem to have a slightly higher probability of savings compared to households that receive only domestic remittances.

Originality/value

From the literature, whereas the theoretical relationship between savings and remittances is mixed, it is also evident that the empirical relationship between remittances and savings has not been clearly established, especially in sub-Saharan African countries in general and Ghana in particular. The present study adds to the paucity in the literature in two main ways. First, the study provides empirical evidence on the relationship between remittances and savings by not only focusing on international remittances but also on internal remittances. Second, in sharp departure from other studies, the current study employs more robust empirical estimators in estimating the relationship between remittances and savings.
Uncertainty analysis and evaluation of measurement of the positioning repeatability for industrial robots
Authors: Chuangui Yang , Xingbao Liu , Xiaobin Yue , Liang Mi , Junwen Wang , Yangqiu Xia , Hailian Yu , Heng Chen
Published: August 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to solve the nonlinear problem in the uncertainty evaluation of the measurement of the positioning repeatability (RP) of industrial robots and provide guidance to restrict the uncertainty of measurement of RP (uRP).

Design/methodology/approach

Firstly, some uncertain sources existing in the measurement procedure of RP are identified. Secondly, the probability distribution function (PDF) of every source is established on the basis of its measurements. Some spatial combined normal distributions are adopted. Then, a method, based on Monte Carlo method (MCM) and established measurement model, is developed for the estimation of uRP. Thirdly, some tests are developed for the identification and validation of the selected PDFs of uncertain sources. Afterwards, the proposed method is applied for the evaluation and validation of the uRP. Finally, influence analyses of some key factors are proposed for the quantification of their relative contributions to uRP.

Findings

Results show that the proposed method can reasonably and objectively estimate the uRP of the selected industrial robot, and changes of the industrial robots’ position and the laser trackers measurement are correlated. Additionally, the uRP of the selected industrial robot can be restricted by using the results of its key factors on uRP.

Originality/value

This paper proposes the spatial combined normal distribution to model the uncertainty of the repeatability of the laser tracker and industrial robot. Meanwhile, the proposed method and influence analyses can be used in estimating and restricting the uRP and thus useful in determining whether the RP of a tested industrial robot meets its requirements.
The contribution of ICT adoption to sustainability: households’ perspective
Authors: Ziemba Ewa
Published: August 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to advance the information society research by examining and better understanding the impact of the adoption information and communication technologies (ICT) within households on improving sustainability.

Design/methodology/approach

The survey questionnaire was used and data collected from 679 Polish households were statistically analyzed to understand the phenomena of ICT adoption and sustainability as well as identify correlations between them.

Findings

The research findings reveal that the ICT adoption is well described by the ICT outlay, information culture, ICT management and ICT quality, whereas sustainability is composed of ecological, economic, socio-cultural and political sustainability. Furthermore, the ICT quality, ICT management and information culture have a significant impact on sustainability, whereas the ICT outlay does not have such an impact.

Research limitations/implications

The research sample included Polish households only. Researchers may use the proposed approach and methodology to do similar analyses with different sample groups in other countries.

Practical implications

Households may find the results appealing and useful in enhancing the adoption of ICT, experiencing the full potential of ICT and deriving various benefits from the ICT adoption. The findings can help governments develop sound ICT adoption plans for implementing the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

Originality/value

The paper provides and verifies a new theoretical model of sustainable information society to depict various dimensions shaping the ICT adoption and their impact on different types of sustainability in the context of households.
Using k-means clustering in international location decision
Authors: Khalid Waqas , Herbert-Hansen Zaza Nadja Lee
Published: August 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate the application of unsupervised machine learning in the international location decision (ILD). This paper addresses the need for a fast, quantitative and dynamic location decision framework.

Design/methodology/approach

Unsupervised machine learning technique, i.e. k-means clustering, is used to carry out the analysis. In total, 24 different indicators of 94 countries, categorized into five groups, have been used in the analysis. After the clustering, the clusters have been compared and scored to select the feasible countries.

Findings

A new framework is developed based on k-means clustering that can be used in ILD. This method provides a quantitative output without personal subjectivity. The indicators can be easily added or extracted based on the preferences of the decision-makers. Hence, it was found out that the unsupervised machine learning, i.e. k-means clustering, is a fast and flexible decision support framework that can be used in ILD.

Research limitations/implications

Limitations include the generality of selected indicators and clustering algorithm used. The use of other methods and parameters may lead to alternate results.

Originality/value

The framework developed through the research intends to assist the decision-makers in deciding on the facility locations. The framework can be used in international and national domains. It provides a quantitative, fast and flexible way to shortlist the potential locations. Other methods can also be used to further decide on the specific location.
The influence of organizational culture and job design on job commitment and human resource performance
Authors: Raharjo Kusdi , Nurjannah Nurjannah , Solimun Solimun , Achmad Rinaldo Fernandes Adji
Published: August 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyze the relationship between Job Design, Job Commitment and Organizational Culture with Human Resource Performance: a study of the construction services provided by national consultants.

Design/methodology/approach

The research population consisted of all employees of a national company offering consultation services, from four big Indonesian State-Owned Enterprises Contractors: PT. Yodya Karya Company, PT. Hutama Karya, PT. Adhy Karya, PT. Waskita Karya Referring to the approach to SEM modeling with an average population of 600 employees for each enterprises, the sample to be used as respondents consisted of 100 employees for each enterprises, and total 100×4 enterprises=400 samples.

Findings

The variables Organizational Culture and Job Design have a significant direct effect on Job Commitment. Likewise, the effect of Organizational Culture and Job Commitment on Human Resource Performance is also significant. However, a different result is shown in the result of the direct effect of the variable Job Design on the variable Human Resource Performance, which indicates that the variable Job Design does not have a significant direct effect on the variable Human Resource Performance. In other words, the intensity of the Job Design value will not affect the intensity level of Human Resource Performance. In addition, a mediating effect of the variable Job Commitment is found on the effect of Job Design and Organizational Culture on Human Resource Performance.

Originality/value

The use of Job Commitment to exercise a mediation effect on the relationship between the effect of Job Design and Organizational Culture on Human Resource Performance, and the research site (no previous research investigating this relationship).
An integrated approach to evaluate the risk of adverse events in hospital sector
Authors: Ortiz-Barrios Miguel Angel , Herrera-Fontalvo Zulmeira , Rúa-Muñoz Javier , Ojeda-Gutiérrez Saimon , De Felice Fabio , Petrillo Antonella
Published: August 2018

Purpose

The risk of adverse events in a hospital evaluation is an important process in healthcare management. It involves several technical, social, and economical aspects. The purpose of this paper is to propose an integrated approach to evaluate the risk of adverse events in the hospital sector.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper aims to provide a decision-making framework to evaluate hospital service. Three well-known methods are applied. More specifically are proposed the following methods: analytic hierarchy process (AHP), a structured technique for organizing and analyzing complex decisions, based on mathematics and psychology developed by Thomas L. Saaty in the 1970s; decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory (DEMATEL) to construct interrelations between criteria/factors and VIKOR method, a commonly used multiple-criteria decision analysis technique for determining a compromise solution and improving the quality of decision making.

Findings

The example provided has demonstrated that the proposed approach is an effective and useful tool to assess the risk of adverse events in the hospital sector. The results could help the hospital identify its high performance level and take appropriate measures in advance to prevent adverse events. The authors can conclude that the promising results obtained in applying the AHP–DEMATEL–VIKOR method suggest that the hybrid method can be used to create decision aids that it simplifies the shared decision-making process.

Originality/value

This paper presents a novel approach based on the integration of AHP, DEMATEL and VIKOR methods. The final aim is to propose a robust methodology to overcome disadvantages associated with each method.
A three-stage dynamic model of financial distress
Authors: Farooq Umar , Jibran Qamar Muhammad Ali , Haque Abdul
Published: August 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explain the multi-stage dynamic process of financial distress. An attempt is made to explore multiple adverse heterogeneous events of financial distress leading a firm closer to bankruptcy progressively.

Design/methodology/approach

Sample comprises 321 ongoing, 54 suspended and 91 delisted non-financial firms from Pakistan Stock Exchange. Financial distress is segregated into three stages, i.e. profit reduction, mild liquidity (ML) and severe liquidity (SL). Flow diagrams are used to explain the transition of healthy firms through proposed stages of financial distress.

Findings

Results showed that firms liquidated/winding-up by court documented SL problems and closed their operations well before the delisting year. It is found that healthy firms are more likely to face SL when faced ML problem at first stage. Distressed firms can recover to a healthy position at any stage, however after approaching to SL, recovery is less expected.

Practical implications

The proposed process will provide a foundation for future studies to develop more relevant, robust and accurate early warning system of corporate failure that will help stakeholders to respond potential crisis accordingly and timely.

Originality/value

Previously, most of the studies used the ex post definition of bankruptcy that is criticized due to the contextual application, sample bias and non-segregation by the degree of liquidity problems. The originality of the proposed ex ante model is its segregation into a three-stage process that can be generalized regardless of specific bankruptcy law.
The effect of TiO2 nanoparticles on color of cotton fabric dyed with reactive dye
Authors: Nateri A. Shams , Zandi Sheida , Motaghitalab Vahid , Piri Negin
Published: August 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate the effect of titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticle coating on the visible reflectance and color appearance of dyed cotton fabrics.

Design/methodology/approach

A Taguchi experimental design model was used to minimize the number of samples and for accurate prediction of possible responses. The governing parameters affecting the color change of dyed fabrics through the coating process were selected as shade of cotton fabrics, depth of shade, concentration and size of TiO2 nanoparticles and concentration of citric acid. The Taguchi model suggests the L18 orthogonal array. In the meantime, the lower response category was selected to determine the optimum conditions. According to obtained results, coating with TiO2 nanoparticles results in color change (ΔEab*) of all dyed cotton fabrics.

Findings

The obtained results indicate that the TiO2-coated fabrics had higher reflectance compared to raw fabrics. Furthermore, it was found that the TiO2 pigmented coating increases the brightness of samples and simultaneously decreases their chroma. On the other hand, analysis of variance reveals that the concentration of TiO2 nanoparticles together with shade of fabrics has the most significant impact on the color change of dyed fabrics through coating process. Dye concentration and size of TiO2 particles also, to the same extent, had influence over the color change. However, the effect of the concentration of citric acid on the color change was insignificant.

Originality/value

This research investigates the effect of TiO2 nanoparticles on the optical property of colored fabric by using a Taguchi experimental design model to minimize the number of samples.
Managerial equity incentives and anti-dilutive convertible debt decisions
Authors: Akono Henri
Published: August 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to examine whether high equity incentives motivate executives to avoid issuing convertible debt and/or to design convertible debt issues as anti-dilutive to earnings-per-share (EPS).

Design/methodology/approach

Tests are conducted using the Heckman two-step probit model to control for potential self-selection bias between firms that issue straight debt and those that issue convertible debt. Further, analyses are conducted separately and jointly for the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) to assess the differential impact of CEOs’ and CFOs’ equity incentives on convertible debt issuance and design decisions.

Findings

Firms are more likely to design convertible debt issues as anti-dilutive to EPS when CFOs have high levels of equity incentives, but only when the firm stock price is sensitive to diluted EPS. High CEOs’ equity incentives have limited impact of convertible debt issuance and design decisions.

Research limitations/implications

The main limitation of this study is the generalizability of the findings and implications of this study due to the smaller sample size of convertible debt issues.

Originality/value

Prior research has shown that bonus incentives influence CEOs with disincentive for EPS dilution and motivate them to make anti-dilutive financing decisions. Further, there is evidence that high equity incentives motivate CEOs to manage earnings to boost short-term prices. This study extends prior literature by showing that high equity incentives provide executives with disincentive for EPS dilution and motivate CFOs to design convertible debt issues as anti-dilutive to EPS possibly to avoid reduced stock prices. Further, this study shows that CFOs have greater influence over convertible debt design choices than CEOs do.
Development and characterization of a high-sensitivity fiber Bragg grating-based vibrating nano-probe for 3D measurement
Authors: Liu Fangfang , Wang Jingfan , Chen Lijuan , Li Ruijun , Xia Haojie , Yu Liandong
Published: August 2018

Purpose

There is an increasing demand for higher-accuracy dimensional measurements of nano- and micro-structures. Recently, the authors presented a fiber Bragg grating (FBG) sensor-based dynamic nano-coordinate-measuring machine (CMM) probe for true three-dimensional coordinate measurement, in which a specific mechanical structure with several FBG sensors was developed to provide the probe with sensitivity to loading in all directions.

Design/methodology/approach

The study presents a three-dimensional sensing and demodulation system based on an improved matched filter design and the time division multiplexing technique that helps solve the problem of multiplex FBG-signals conflicts. In addition, the application of the dynamic mode of the probe system effectively solves the problem presented by the surface interaction forces.

Findings

Consequently, this FBG-based vibrating probe system has increased sensitivity to strain, while maintaining smaller contact force. The experiments for testing probe performance show that the prototype yielded a measurement resolution of 13 nm, a repeatability of 50 nm and a vertical measurement force of less than1.5 mN.

Research limitations/implications

The force tests in the horizontal directions are difficult to conduct because both the probe and the dynamometer are only adaptable to vertical use.

Practical implications

Development of the FBG-based dynamic nano-coordinate-measuring machine probe will achieve a new and inexpensive method for higher-accuracy dimensional measurements of nano- and micro-structures, such as micro-electromechanical systems, micro-fluidic chips, inkjet and diesel engine injector nozzles that are in overall dimensions within the micrometer scale.

Originality/value

The study presents a three-dimensional sensing and demodulation system for the vibrating nano-coordinate-measuring machine probe based on FBG sensors. The prototype yielded a measurement resolution of 13 nm, a repeatability of 50 nm and a vertical measurement force of less than1.5 mN.
Seven decades of mountain hare counts show severe declines where high‐yield recreational game bird hunting is practised
Authors: Watson Adam , Wilson Jeremy D.
Published: August 2018

Recreational hunting is widespread and can benefit nature conservation when well‐practised, monitored, and regulated. Management for recreational red grouse Lagopus lagopus scotica shooting on upland heathland in the UK causes conservation conflict because the intensive habitat, predator, and disease management needed to maintain high‐grouse densities for “driven” shooting has detrimental environmental impacts, notably for raptor populations.

Sustainable management of mountain hares Lepus timidus scoticus, a game species in the same landscapes, poses a challenge. Control of transmission to grouse of a viral disease, louping‐ill, for which mountain hares are a host, has become an additional motivation to kill mountain hares since research during 1993–2001 suggested that culls might reduce infection rates in grouse.

We analysed population trends of mountain hares from spring counts on moorland managed for grouse shooting and on contiguous alpine land. On moorland sites, a long‐term decline (4.6% per annum) from 1954 to 1999 increased to 30.7% per annum from then until 2017, with a density index falling to <1% of initial levels after 2008. Before 1999, declines were associated with conifer planting and were least severe where heather burning characteristic of grouse management was present. Grouse moors had the highest rate of decline after 1999.

On alpine sites, the density index increased by 2.0% per annum from 1954 to 2007, then declined by 12.3% per annum but remained within the previous range of variation.

Despite lack of evidence that it increases grouse numbers, reduction of louping‐ill transmission to grouse became a more frequent justification for mountain hare culls at a time consistent with it causing these recent, rapid mountain hare declines on grouse moors.

Synthesis and applications. Long‐term field counts suggest that intensification of game bird management has resulted in severe, recent declines in mountain hare numbers, exacerbating longer term declines associated with land‐use change. Management practices founded on misinterpretation of earlier research are the probable cause. Regulation of hare culling would provide a framework for formal tests of whether culls affect grouse surpluses. It would also provide an opportunity to examine mountain hare populations' resilience to culls of varying size and seasonal timing.
FgSec2A, a guanine nucleotide exchange factor of FgRab8, is important for polarized growth, pathogenicity and deoxynivalenol production in Fusarium graminearum
Authors: Zheng Huawei , Li Lingping , Miao Pengfei , Wu Congxian , Chen Xiaomin , Yuan Mingyue , Fang Tian , Norvienyeku Justice , Li Guangpu , Zheng Wenhui , Wang Zonghua , Zhou Jie
Published: August 2018

Sec4/Rab8 is one of the well‐studied members of the Rab GTPase family, previous studies have shown that Sec4/Rab8 crucially promotes the pathogenesis of phytopathogens, but the upstream regulators of Rab8 are still unknown. Here, we have identified two Sec2 homologues FgSec2A and FgSec2B in devastating fungal pathogen Fusarium graminearum and investigated their functions and interactions with FgRab8 by live‐cell imaging, genetic and functional analyses. Yeast two‐hybrid assay shows that FgSec2A specifically interacts with FgRab8DN(N123I) and itself. Importantly, FgSec2A is required for growth, conidiation, DON production and virulence of F. graminearum. Live‐cell imaging shows that FgSec2A and FgSec2B are both localized to the tip region of hyphae and conidia. Both N‐terminal region and Sec2 domain of FgSec2A are essential for its function, but not for localization, whereas the C‐terminal region is important for its polarized localization. Furthermore, constitutively active FgRab8CA(Q69L) partially rescues the defects of ΔFgsec2A. Consistently, FgSec2A is required for the polarized localization of FgRab8. Finally, FgSec2A and FgSec2B show partial functions, but FgSec2A does not interact and co‐localize with FgSec2B. Taken together, these results indicate that FgSec2A acts as a FgRab8 guanine nucleotide exchange factor and is necessary for polarized growth, DON production and pathogenicity in F. graminearum.
Phylogeography of the wild Lager‐brewing ancestor (Saccharomyces eubayanus) in Patagonia
Authors: Eizaguirre Juan I. , Peris David , Rodríguez María E. , Lopes Christian A. , De Los Ríos Patricio , Hittinger Chris Todd , Libkind Diego
Published: August 2018

Saccharomyces eubayanus is the close relative of the Lager‐brewing yeast and was firstly found in North Patagonia associated with Nothofagus trees. In recent years additional strains were found in North America, Asia and New Zealand, and genomic analyses showed the existence of two main populations of this yeast, both of them present in Patagonia. Here, we performed the most comprehensive study of S. eubayanus in Patagonia natural environments (400 samples) and confirmed that this region has the highest isolation success rate for this species described worldwide (more than 10‐fold). The genetic characterization of 200 isolates (COX2, DCR1, intFR) revealed five geographically structured subpopulations. We hypothesized that marine ingressions and glaciations, which shaped the Patagonian landscape, contributed on population differentiation. The first large screening of fermentation performance of 60 wild S. eubayanus strains indicated which subpopulations would be more suitable for beer production.
Product Space, Potential Comparative Advantages and Export Technological Complexity
Authors: Ding Yibing , Li Jiantong
Published: August 2018

To investigate the evolution process of comparative advantage and the factors affect this process is an important topic, and for developing exporting countries, it is even more important to see what factors will promote them to export more technological complex products. In this paper, we utilise the theory of product space raised by Hausmann and others and modify the indicators of product proximity, product path and product density in this theory. We also utilise the method raised by Rodrick to calculate the product and country‐level export technological complexity. Based on a multinational panel data set, we show that if a country's exported products with higher product density or higher product path also have higher technological complexity, then in the short term, the country's overall export technological complexity tend to be increased, and in the long term, the effect of distribution of the path of technological complexity of exports is more significant.
A prospective observational study on the stress levels at the time of embryo transfer and pregnancy testing following in vitro fertilisation treatment: a comparison between women with different treatment outcomes
Authors: Cheung CWC , Saravelos SH , Chan TYA , Sahota DS , Wang CC , Chung PW , Li TC
Published: August 2018

Objective

To ascertain whether stress biomarkers and psychological indices of stress may predict both conception and miscarriage rates in women undergoing in vitro fertilisation/intracytoplasmic sperm injection (IVF/ICSI).

Design

Prospective observational study.

Setting

A university‐affiliated tertiary hospital.

Population

Infertile women who were undergoing fresh or frozen IVF/ICSI cycles.

Methods

Women were recruited to (1) complete validated psychological questionnaires (visual analogue scale of stress, state–trait anxiety inventory, perceived stress scale, fertility problem inventory, Beck depression inventory, and general health questionnaire), at the time of embryo transfer (ET) and pregnancy testing (PT), and (2) provide saliva samples for α‐amylase (sAA) measurement before and after ET and at PT.

Main outcome measures

Women were grouped according to subsequent reproductive outcome; scores/levels of all tests were then compared between groups at each time‐point.

Results

In all, 197 women completed the study, of which 92 conceived and 28 miscarried. The level of psychological stress, as measured by questionnaires, was highest at the time of PT, whereas the level of biological stress as measured by sAA level (IU/l) post‐ET (1.8 × 105 ± 1.5 × 105) was significantly (P < 0.001) higher than pre‐ET (1.2 × 105 ± 1.0 × 105) and at PT (1.0 × 105 ± 1.1 × 105). However, there was no difference in psychological scoring and in sAA levels between women who did or did not conceive and who had miscarried or had an ongoing pregnancy.

Conclusions

The level of sAA is highest following ET, whereas psychological stress is highest at PT. However, neither stress level appeared to be of prognostic value in predicting conception or miscarriage.

Tweetable abstract

Stress level fluctuated at different time‐points, but it did not predict conception or miscarriage.
An Anthropological Examination of the Types of Skeletal Fractures Resulting from Fatal High (˃3 m) Free Falls,
Authors: Rowbotham Samantha K. , Blau Soren , Hislop‐Jambrich Jacqueline , Francis Victoria
Published: August 2018

Fatal falls from heights (˃3 m) often result in blunt force trauma (BFT) to the skeleton. The fracture patterns that result from this BFT mechanism are well understood in forensic anthropology and forensic pathology; however, details of the specific types of fractures that result remain poorly documented. The aim of this study was to provide a detailed examination of the types of fractures that may result from fatal high falls. Fractures were recorded from 95 full‐body postmortem computed tomography scans of individuals known to have died from a high fall. Trauma was then analyzed taking into account the extrinsic and intrinsic variables known to influence a fall using multiple logistic regression. A total of 339 types of fractures were classified, of which 16 were significantly associated with this BFT mechanism. Classified fracture types will augment anthropological interpretations of the circumstances of death from BFT in cases of suspected high falls.
Crossing family histories of diabetes and cardiovascular disease leads to unexpected outcomes in diabetic offspring
Authors: Hermans Michel P. , Ahn Sylvie A. , Rousseau Michel F.
Published: August 2018

Background

This study investigated the isolated and crossed effects of familial histories (FH) of early onset coronary heart disease (EOCHD) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) on diabetic offspring.

Methods

The cardiometabolic phenotype of 1098 T2DM patients was analyzed according to an FH of T2DM and/or EOCHD, including body composition, fasting insulinemia, insulin sensitivity, β‐cell function (BCF), lipids, lipoprotein(a), high‐density lipoprotein (HDL) number and functionality, and micro‐ and macrovascular complications.

Results

Mean age and T2DM duration were 69 and 18 years, respectively; 64% of patients were male, 50% (n = 550) had an FH of T2DM (DM[+]), and 13% (n = 145) had an FH of EOCHD (EOCHD[+]). Four subgroups were generated by crossing FHs: DM[−]EOCHD[−] (44%; n = 487); DM[+]EOCHD[−] (42%; n = 466); DM[−]EOCHD[+] (6%; n = 61); and DM[+]EOCHD[+] (8%; n = 84). Microangiopathies were highest among DM[+] patients, whose BCF was deteriorating the fastest. More numerous/dysfunctional HDLs characterized EOCHD[+] patients. The greatest frequency of cardiovascular disease (CVD; 69%) was observed in DM[−]EOCHD[+] patients, whose lipoprotein(a) and insulinemia were also highest (81 nmol/L and 140 pmol/L, respectively). The lowest frequency of CVD (30%) was observed in DM[+]EOCHD[−] patients.

Conclusions

Familial histories of DM and EOCHD predispose to increased microvascular and macrovascular risk, respectively, with hyperinsulinemia, lipoprotein(a), and dysfunctional HDLs standing out as mediators of the inherited macrovascular risk. Yet, crossing these FHs did not randomly redistribute vascular risk, because patients with parental T2DM had fewer macrovascular diseases regardless of familial EOCHD. The odds of being left‐handed were unexpectedly greater in patients with crossed parental histories.
Peripheral pain is enhanced by insulin‐like growth factor 1 and its receptors in a mouse model of type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Tang Zhaosheng , Cao Fuming , Zhang Hao , Tang Jin , Li Huizhi , Zhang Yiyun , Feng Bo , Wang Hua
Published: August 2018

Background

Insulin‐like growth factor 1 (IGF1) is a neurotrophic factor with many actions, including a possible hyperalgesic effect. This study investigated the effects of IGF1 on the overall behavior of diabetic mice and explored the possible mechanisms underlying IGF1‐induced pain.

Methods

Mice were divided into five groups (db/m, db/db, vehicle‐treated db/db, IGF1‐treated db/db, and IGF1 + JB1‐treated db/db mice). Behavioral studies were conducted using the hot plate and Von Frey tests after intraplantar injection of recombinant (r) IGF1 (50 μg/kg) and the IGF1 receptor (IGF1R) antagonist JB1 (6 μg/mouse). Morphological changes in dorsal root ganglia (DRG) were evaluated using electron microscopy. Immunofluorescence was used to detect IGF1R expression and colocalisation with pain mediators in the DRG. Changes in the expression of IGF1R, extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (ERK), and ras‐associated factor‐1 (c‐raf) in the DRG were evaluated using western blotting.

Results

Intraplantar injection of rIGF1 resulted in a hyperalgesic effect after 2 hours. This IGF1‐induced hypersensitivity was attenuated by prior intraplantar injection of the IGF1R antagonist. There was no significant change in neuronal structure in the db/m group, whereas neuronal structure was impaired in the other four groups. Moreover, IGF1R was colocalised with pain mediators in the DRG of mice. Intraplantar injection of rIGF1 resulted in increased IGF1R, phosphorylated (p‐) ERK, and c‐raf expression in the DRG; prior intraplantar injection of the IGF1R antagonist attenuated rIGF1‐induced increases in p‐ERK and c‐raf.

Conclusions

The results indicate that IGF1‐induced acute hyperalgesia may be associated with the IGF1R/c‐raf/ERK pathway. The IGF1‐induced hypersensitivity was attenuated by an IGF1R antagonist.
The role of wild terrestrial animals in late prehistoric societies of south‐eastern Arabia: new insights from Saruq al‐Hadid
Authors: Roberts James , Weeks Lloyd , Cable Charlotte , Fillios Melanie , Aali Yaaqoub Youssef al , Radwan Mansour Boraik , Zein Hassan
Published: August 2018

The nature of the relationship between humans and wild terrestrial animals has been little discussed in Bronze Age and Iron Age south‐eastern Arabia, largely due to a relative paucity of their remains in contemporary faunal assemblages. In this paper we present the results of analysis of animal bone recently excavated from Saruq al‐Hadid, a late prehistoric (2200–800 BC) site located in the desert interior of the UAE. Wild terrestrial animals, particularly oryx (Oryx leucoryx) and gazelle (Gazella sp.), were the predominant taxa identified, suggesting long‐term, frequent exploitation of these species. Here we use these remains to examine the implications of this wild animal exploitation for subsistence strategies and social formation at the site and in the region, alongside late prehistoric use of the desert zone and the complexities of the relationship between humans and wild animals that occur in this environment. A reassessment of the zooarchaeological evidence from south‐eastern Arabia highlights the potential economic and social significance of wild animals to late prehistoric societies in the region, and the necessity to factor this importance into considerations of concurrent social developments.
Cognitive and neurobehavioral benefits of an enriched environment on young adult mice after chronic ethanol consumption during adolescence
Authors: Rico‐Barrio Irantzu , Peñasco Sara , Puente Nagore , Ramos Almudena , Fontaine Christine J. , Reguero Leire , Giordano Maria Elvira , Buceta Ianire , Terradillos Itziar , Lekunberri Leire , Mendizabal‐Zubiaga Juan , Rodríguez de Fonseca Fernando , Gerrikagoitia Inmaculada , Elezgarai Izaskun , Grandes Pedro
Published: August 2018

Binge drinking (BD) is a common pattern of ethanol (EtOH) consumption by adolescents. The brain effects of the acute EtOH exposure are well‐studied; however, the long‐lasting cognitive and neurobehavioral consequences of BD during adolescence are only beginning to be elucidated. Environmental enrichment (EE) has long been known for its benefits on the brain and may serve as a potential supportive therapy following EtOH exposure. In this study, we hypothesized that EE may have potential benefits on the cognitive deficits associated with BD EtOH consumption. Four‐week‐old C57BL/6J male mice were exposed to EtOH following an intermittent 4‐day drinking‐in‐the‐dark procedure for 4 weeks. Then they were exposed to EE during EtOH withdrawal for 2 weeks followed by a behavioral battery of tests including novel object recognition, novel location, object‐in‐place, rotarod, beam walking balance, tail suspension, light–dark box and open field that were run during early adulthood. Young adult mice exposed to EE significantly recovered recognition, spatial and associative memory as well as motor coordination skills and balance that were significantly impaired after adolescent EtOH drinking with respect to controls. No significant permanent anxiety or depressive‐like behaviors were observed. Taken together, an EE exerts positive effects on the long‐term negative cognitive deficits as a result of EtOH consumption during adolescence.
A randomized usability assessment of simulated naloxone administration by community members
Authors: Eggleston William , Podolak Christine , Sullivan Ross W. , Pacelli Lauren , Keenan Michael , Wojcik Susan
Published: August 2018

Background and Aims

Expanded access to naloxone has been identified as a key intervention for reducing opioid‐related morbidity and mortality. It is not known which naloxone device will result in rapid, successful administration when administered by community members. The aims of this study were to estimate and compare (1) the rate of successful administration and (2) time to successful administration for single‐step nasal spray, multi‐step atomized nasal spray and intramuscular simulated naloxone by community members.

Design

A prospective, single‐site, open‐label, randomized usability assessment of simulated naloxone administration in a convenience sample of community members. Participants were randomized to single‐step nasal spray (SP), multi‐step atomized nasal spray (AT) or intramuscular simulated (IM) naloxone and asked to administer the simulated medication to a mannequin after completing a 2‐minute training video.

Setting

New York, USA at a state fair that attracts between 60 000 and 120 000 individuals daily.

Participants

A total of 138 participants completed the study over a 2‐day period in September 2016. All participants were at least 18 years of age and had no prior naloxone training.

Measurements

The rate of successful administration and time to successful administration were recorded for each device.

Findings

The SP device (100%; P < 0.001) had a higher rate of success compared with the IM device (69.6%). Although success differed between the AT (89.1%) device and IM device, as well as the AT device and SP device, these differences were not significant. The SP device also had a shorter median time to successful administration (34.3 sec) compared with the IM (99.9 sec; P < 0.001) and AT (110.3; P < 0.001) devices.

Conclusions

After video training, community members are able to (1) administer single‐step nasal spray naloxone with a higher rate of success than intramuscular naloxone in a simulated overdose setting and (2) administer single‐step nasal spray naloxone more rapidly than both intramuscular and multi‐step atomized nasal spray naloxone.
Neurochemical characterization of intramural nerve fibres in the porcine oesophagus
Authors: Rytel Liliana , Szymanska Kamila , Gonkowski Ignacy , Wojtkiewicz Joanna
Published: August 2018

The gastrointestinal (GI) tract is innervated by nerve processes derived from the intramural enteric neurons and neurons localized outside the digestive tract. This study analysed the neurochemical characterization of nerves in the wall of the porcine oesophagus using single immunofluorescence technique. Immunoreactivity to vesicular acetylcholine transporter (VAChT), neuropeptide Y (NPY), vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP), somatostatin (SOM), galanin (GAL), neuronal isoform of nitric oxide synthase (nNOS), substance P (SP), leucine enkephalin (LENK), calcitonin gene‐related peptide (CGRP) or dopamine beta‐hydroxylase (DBH) was investigated in intramuscular and intramucosal nerves of the cervical, thoracic and abdominal oesophagus. The results indicate that all of the substances studied were present in the oesophageal nerves. The density of particular populations of fibres depended on the segment of the oesophagus. The most numerous were fibres immunoreactive to VIP in the longitudinal and circular muscle layers of the abdominal oesophagus: The number of these fibres amounted to 16.4 ± 0.8 and 18.1 ± 3.1, respectively. In turn, the least numerous were CGRP‐positive fibres, which were present only in the circular muscle layer of the cervical oesophagus and mucosal layer of the abdominal oesophagus in the number of 0.3 ± 0. The obtained results show that nerves in the porcine oesophageal wall are very diverse in their neurochemical coding, and differences between particular parts of the oesophagus suggest that organization of the innervation clearly depends on the fragment of this organ.
Adherence to extended release naltrexone: Patient and treatment characteristics
Authors: Chang Grace , Crawford Mitchell , Pitts Michelle , Schein Abigail Z. , Goodwin Katherine , Enggasser Justin L.
Published: August 2018

Background and Objectives

Despite the promise of extended release naltrexone in the treatment of the opioid and alcohol use disorders, challenges with initiation and subsequent adherence have limited its potential. The purpose of this study is to identify the patient and treatment characteristics associated with adherence to extended release naltrexone.

Methods

Retrospective cohort study of 155 veterans who initiated the medication in FY 2014 and FY2015. Medical records were abstracted for patient and treatment data including preferred drug and utilization of substance use treatment in the year before and after medication initiation.

Results

Sample characteristics include 94% male, 70% domiciled, 60% without current legal problems, 30% employed, and preferred drug being opioids for 55% and alcohol for 45%. The mean of five extended release naltrexone injections did not differ by preferred drug. Treatment variables associated with medication adherence included concurrent substance use residential, individual, group, and psychiatric therapies (all p < .05) with inpatient detoxification admissions halved afterward (p < .0001) .

Discussion and Conclusions

Whereas most studies of extended release naltrexone have focused on patients with either alcohol or opioid use disorders for 6 months, this study allowed for a direct comparison of adherence in both groups over a year. The average treatment persistence in this veteran sample is greater than described in other public sector studies and may illustrate the importance of concurrent psychosocial therapies.

Scientific Significance

Results extend the findings of other studies and add to an emerging appreciation of the factors associated with treatment retention for extended release naltrexone. (Am J Addict 2018;27:524–530)
Survey of aged psychiatry services’ support of older Australians with very severe, persistent behavioural symptoms of dementia
Authors: O'Connor Daniel W , Jackson Kate , Lie David , McGowan Helen , McKay Roderick
Published: August 2018

Objective

To map the provision of community, acute, non‐acute and residential care‐based state‐funded mental health services to older people with severe, persistent behavioural symptoms of dementia.

Methods

An electronic survey was completed in 2015 by senior representatives of aged persons’ mental health services across Australia's six states.

Results

Jurisdictions varied widely in the number, geographic spread and make‐up of aged persons’ mental health community teams when adjusted for aged population; their number of acute and non‐acute beds, and especially in the provision of specialist residential beds or partnerships with non‐government providers.

Conclusion

There is no nationally accepted pathway of care for this vulnerable group or understanding of what constitutes an adequate statewide mental health service.
Ultra‐Orthodox Jews and infertility diagnosis and treatment
Authors: Kol S.
Published: August 2018

Background

‘Be fruitful and multiply’ is the first God's command in the Bible. Every aspect in life of the Orthodox Jewish population, including the strive for fertility, is tightly covered by a wide set of commands and rules (‘Halacha’) that span more than 3,000 years. This is a unique example of a population that continues to adhere to such time‐honored rules.

Objective

To describe rules that encourage fertility on one hand, but may hinder fertility and influence infertility diagnosis and treatment on the other.

Materials and Methods

Halacha rules that may affect fecundity.

Results

Orthodox Jews obey a complex set of rules that influence fertility.

Discussion and conclusion

This study provides fertility practitioners with background information that may help them when delivering professional care to Ultra‐Orthodox Jewish infertile couples.