bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On the limits of trust
Authors: Tade Oludayo , Adeniyi Oluwatosin
Published: December 2016

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate automated teller machine (ATM) fraud in southwest Nigeria, as extant studies have not examined the unintended consequences of ATM subscription particularly the effect of the identity of fraudsters and the strategies for defrauding.

Design/methodology/approach

Using sequential exploratory strand of mixed method, data were collected from both ATM users and victims of ATM fraud using multi-stage sampling procedure. This involved purposive selection of Lagos and Oyo states.

Findings

Results showed that fraudsters were typically lovers, friends, relatives and sometimes children of victims. Strategies for defrauding included card cloning, swapping of cards and physical attacks at ATM galleries.

Research limitations/implications

Because of the size of the sample which is small, the research results may lack generalizability. More expansive works are needed across Nigeria in this regard.

Practical implications

The paper includes implications for policy initiative concerning the deployment and use of payment systems such as ATM in Nigeria.

Social implications

The paper reveals the limits of trust in cashless policy. It raises salient policy issues concerning the need for the governance of trust to engender adoption.

Originality/value

The paper characterizes fraudsters and their strategies for defrauding.
Auditors’ experience with corporate psychopaths
Authors: Klarskov Jeppesen Kim , Leder Christina
Published: December 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyse auditors’ experience with corporate psychopaths in their client management.

Design/methodology/approach

The research was conducted as a survey among Danish state-authorized auditors, to which 179 auditors responded, representing 9 per cent of the total population.

Findings

Of the participating auditors, 69 per cent had experienced corporate psychopaths in their client management and 70 per cent of these had experienced more than one case. In addition, 43 per cent of the auditors who had experienced psychopathic managers reported that they had committed fraud. The vast majority of cases were detected in the execution and completion phases of the audit and resulted in increased professional scepticism, the use of more experienced auditors and the requirement for more and better audit evidence.

Research limitations/implications

The findings confirm that corporate psychopaths actually exist and are a phenomenon worthy of research attention in areas such as accounting, auditing, internal control, fraud investigation, performance management and human resource management.

Practical implications

As auditors are likely to come across corporate psychopaths from time to time in their careers, awareness of this type of risk needs to be increased and better integrated into the risk assessment in audit planning. Auditing standards relating to fraud also need to be updated according to the latest developments in fraud theory.

Originality/value

This is the first research to address auditors’ experience with corporate psychopaths. It adds value by confirming the relevance of the topic for practice and research.
Combating corruption in Nigeria and the constitutional issues arising
Authors: Albert Akume T.
Published: December 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper therefore is to identify and examine major issue-areas in law, prominent among which are the Plea-Bargain and S308 Immunity Clause, and how they impact the process of effectively combating corruption in Nigeria.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper uses documentary sources and analytical method to examine the issues involved.

Findings

The identified issue-areas are inhibitors rather than facilitators.

Research limitations/implications

The implication is that the government needs to change the existing laws to strengthen the fight against corruption.

Practical implications

This is to ensure that the war against corruption is strengthened and effective.

Social implications

To ensure that offenders face the full weight of the law for their action.

Originality/value

This paper is the author's original work and all references are appropriately acknowledged.
A dedicated place for volume fraud within the current UK economic crime agenda?
Authors: King Julian , Doig Alan
Published: December 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to explore how a large UK police force – Greater Manchester Police (GMP) – sought during a period of continuing budget reductions to take a cost-effective approach to certain types of fraud through the establishment of a central Volume Fraud Team (VFT), which in turn would also have wider operational resource benefits across the force. It then explores the decision to merge that team with its existing serious and complex fraud team.

Design/methodology/approach

The research was undertaken over a period of two years by interview and desk review to explain the internal processes which underpinned the approach and the initial outcomes. It discusses why the approach was short lived as a consequence of other factors.

Findings

The paper sets out briefly the context of changes to the policing of fraud since 1979 and describes the GMP decision-making processes that established a centralised response to volume fraud and major (serious and complex) fraud. The paper assesses the available data on the approach and whether the changes facilitated a more effective means of addressing fraud and other internal policing priorities. It then discusses the decision in 2014 to merge the staff resources for volume and major frauds in response to identified policy trends in fraud investigations and changes in fraud reporting.

Research limitations/implications

The single case study is limited in terms of focus and in applicability to the wider law enforcement response to fraud.

Practical implications

The research discusses practitioner issues arising from the complexities of balancing resources and priorities against changing trends and patterns of criminal activity in a specific area of policing.

Originality/value

The research is an original study into the internal and external change agendas, and there are, therefore, wider lessons for the policing of fraud in the UK.
Identity theft reports of adolescents
Authors: Marcum Catherine D. , Higgins George E. , Mackinnon Alexandria
Published: December 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper was to explore the identity theft victimization experiences of high school students, as well as the predictors of it being reported to school counselors.

Design/methodology/approach

In July and August 2014, an online survey was sent to every registered member of the American School Counselor’s Association (ASCA). School counselors were questioned about their experiences in regarding online victimization of their students.

Findings

Results of this analysis revealed extremely interesting predictors of school counselor demographics related to the number of reports filed by students.

Research limitations/implications

There was a small response rate because the survey was sent to all registered members of the ASCA, instead of a specific targeted group (which would have been more appropriate).

Practical implications

The results indicate a need for further resources and training dedicated to school counselors to manage identity theft victimization of students.

Originality/value

As far as the authors are aware, no other study of this kind has previously been performed. In addition, there is little known about identity theft victimization of adolescents.
Fraud detection suicide: the dark side of white-collar crime
Authors: Brody Richard G. , Perri Frank S.
Published: December 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the issue of suicide, a violent act against one’s self, as it relates to white- and red-collar crimes. White-collar crime can be described as nonviolent crime committed for financial gain. Red-collar crime describes a situation where a white-collar criminal commits an act of violence, often murder, to silence someone who is in a position to report a fraud they have perpetrated. Previous research has not addressed the issue of suicide, as it relates to white- and red-collar crime.

Design/methodology/approach

The analysis is conceptual, focusing on the historical underpinnings of white- and red-collar crime and reviewing the evolution of white-collar criminals. Sources of information consisted of published news media, scholarly articles and articles retrieved from the web.

Findings

A suicide may be linked, directly or indirectly, to a financial crime. Law enforcement must be careful not to jump to conclusions, as there is a possibility that a staged suicide has occurred.

Originality/value

Law enforcement individuals may want to consider an additional motive when investigating a suicide, especially when the victim has some type of connection to a known fraud. This type of connection may not be readily apparent and may require a new approach on the part of a law enforcement investigation.
Flagging potential fraudulent investment activity
Authors: King Jeremy , van Vuuren Gary Wayne
Published: December 2016

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate the use of the bias ratio as a possible early indicator of financial fraud – specifically in the reporting of hedge fund returns. In the wake of the 2008-2009 financial crisis, numerous hedge funds were liquidated and several cases of financial fraud exposed.

Design/methodology/approach

Risk-adjusted return metrics such as the Sharpe ratio and Value at Risk were used to raise suspicion for fraud. These metrics, however, assume distributional normality and thus have had limited success with hedge fund returns (a characteristic of which is highly skewed, non-normal return distributions).

Findings

Results indicate that potential fraud would have been detected in the early stages of the scheme’s life. Having demonstrated the credibility of the bias ratio, it was then applied to several indices and (anonymous) South African hedge funds. The results were used to demonstrate the ratio’s scope and robustness and draw attention to other metrics which could be used in conjunction with it. Results from these multiple sources could be used to justify further investigation.

Research limitations/implications

The traditional metrics for performance evaluation (such as the Sharpe ratio), assume distributional normality and thus have had limited success with hedge fund returns (a characteristic of which is highly skewed, non-normal return distributions). The bias ratio, which does not rely on normally distributed returns, was applied to a known fraud case (Madoff’s Ponzi scheme).

Practical implications

The effectiveness of the bias ratio in demonstrating potential suspicious financial activity has been demonstrated.

Originality/value

The financial market has come under heightened scrutiny in the past decade (2005 – 2015) as a result of the fragile and uncertain economic milieu that still (2015) persists. Numerous risk and return measures have been used to evaluate hedge funds’ risk-adjusted performance, but many fail to account for non-normal return distributions exhibited by hedge funds. The bias ratio, however, has been demonstrated to effectively flag potentially fraudulent funds.
Building anti-corruption compliance through national integrity system in Indonesia
Authors: Lukito Anastasia Suhartati
Published: December 2016

Purpose

The significant role of anti-corruption compliance should be encouraged to create good business and investment climate. Especially, in the circumstances of higher number of bribery and corruption cases, whilst preparing for Asian Economic Community, the necessary actions to reduce the financial crime and economic crime should be fostered into all aspects of business activities. To reduce bribery and corruption cases in Indonesia, National Integrity System as part of National Strategy on Corruption Prevention and Eradication is urged to be conducted. With the implementation of National Integrity System among all public or governmental institutions and private institutions, the institutions itself will be strengthened. National Integrity System should be implemented through all the people, process and technology in the organizations. So, at the end, the purpose of this paper is to prevent any financial crime, particularly in the Indonesian anti-corruption regime.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper explores and analyzes anti-bribery regulations and the important role of National Integrity System as the prevention approach to build anti-corruption compliance in Indonesia.

Findings

The National Integrity System and Anti-Corruption Compliance can be viewed as important elements for preventing any financial crime. The new perspective is needed for all of the public institutions and private institutions to build and implement National Integrity System in all business activities. Furthermore, all of business society has a significant role of developing the sustainable good business environment in Indonesia. Encouraging National Integrity System in every business sector is also a way to achieve the last purpose, which is to strengthen economic competitiveness.

Practical implications

The paper can be a source to explore about the National Integrity System and Anti-Corruption Compliance based on Indonesia perspectives.

Originality/value

This paper gives contributions by encouraging the public and private institutions to build anti-corruption compliance by implementing National Integrity System within their organizational culture to prevent financial crime and lead to sustainable economic growth.
An examination of judicial independence in China
Authors: Fairbairn William
Published: December 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to consider and evaluate judicial independence in China, through reviewing the value in its presence, assessing its current state in China and evaluating what the future holds for it.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper reviews the benefits of judicial independence in its support of the rule of law. Following this, an evaluation of the current independence of the judiciary in China is presented. The reforms of the judiciary in the Fourth Plenary Session and the outlook for judicial independence in China are assessed.

Findings

The paper finds that judicial independence in China cannot be said to exist, being vulnerable to influence from a variety of sources. There is, however, progress observed, and this is expected to continue.

Originality/value

This paper’s consideration of judicial independence in China and its outlook are framed with discussions of the relationships between judicial independence and the rule of law, and the Chinese state and the rule of law. The paper should thus contribute to discussion of the development trajectory of China in this important facet.
Limit Up–Limit Down: an effective response to the “Flash Crash”?
Authors: Dalko Viktoria
Published: December 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to assess the US Securities and Exchange Commission’s new regulation, Limit Up–Limit Down (LULD), against the background of manipulative high-frequency trading (HFT).

Design/methodology/approach

This paper examines the background of HFT and related manipulative tactics by reviewing 43 articles of empirical research. It also examines areas in which LULD is effective and those in which LULD fails. The assessment of LULD is completed with a comparison between computerized regulation and legal enforcement in the contemporary reality of electronic trading platforms.

Findings

The paper points out the effectiveness of LULD in regulating wild price volatility as well as its insufficiency when facing orderly but fast price momentum ignited by manipulative HFT such as “spoofing”.

Practical implications

The findings may provide assistance to lawmakers and regulators to improve LULD regulation.

Originality/value

This paper is the first attempt to assess LULD regulation against a comprehensive background of manipulative HFT. The paper is of value to other researchers concerned about the instability to the equity market that manipulative HFT can create. The paper is also of interest to policymakers in designing effective regulation in the high-frequency era.
Bad apples or corrupting barrels? Preventing traders’ misconduct
Authors: Scholten Wieke , Ellemers Naomi
Published: December 2016

Purpose

This paper aims to identify social psychological root causes of misconduct by traders and offers practical guidelines to prevent misconduct.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors use insights on social psychological mechanisms to examine current business practices observed in the context of supervisory activities. Case examples were collected at Dutch and European banks, including major institutions. This is an opinion peace that interprets regulator experiences from a social psychological perspective.

Findings

The authors characterize standard responses to misconduct in trading as reactive and elucidate why this “bad apples” perspective is insufficiently effective. As an alternative, the authors address the social psychological root causes of misconduct within trading teams. The “corrupting barrels” model identifies ineffective error approaches, outcome inequality and dysfunctional moral climates as contextual root causes in team dynamics. The model uses current insights from empirical research in psychology to do so.

Practical implications

This paper specifies practical guidelines that help prevent future misconduct among traders.

Originality/value

Addressing the contextual root causes of misconduct at the team level will help banks and financial supervisors to improve their effectiveness in preventing misconduct. In the context of standard “bad apples” approaches, the “corrupting barrels” model offers an original perspective.
Effect of paternalistic leadership style on subordinate’s trust: an Indian study
Authors: Rawat Preeti S. , Lyndon Shiji
Published: December 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to study the effect of paternalistic leadership of the boss on the trust of the subordinate.

Design/methodology/approach

The present study adopted survey method to test the hypotheses. Paternalistic leadership style was measured by a 24-item scale developed by Cheng et al. (2004). Trust was measured by a four-item scale by Schoorman and Ballinger (2006). Data were collected from a sample of 253 respondents.

Findings

The results show that in India, paternalistic leadership style leads to subordinate trust. The result further found that though benevolent and moral leadership leads to trust, authoritarian leadership does not lead to formation of trust.

Practical implications

The study has important implications in areas like managing leader–member relations, leadership training and team efficacy.

Originality/value

Leadership researchers in Indian context have largely adopted etic approach which attempts to generalize Western leadership theory to Indian context. However, uncritical adaptation of techniques developed in Western context may not be effective in the Indian cultural environment. The concept of paternalistic leadership was developed in Chinese context, but as India scores high on paternalism, the present study uses the paternalistic leadership style to study its effect on subordinate’s trust on leader.
Impact of the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) on US textile and apparel manufacturing
Authors: Lu Sheng
Published: December 2016

Purpose

This study aims to empirically investigate the potential impact of the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) on US textile and apparel manufacturing.

Design/methodology/approach

This study adopts the Global Trade Analysis Project (GTAP) computable general equilibrium model based on the latest GTAP9 database.

Findings

The findings of the study suggest that: the “yarn-forward” rule will not work effectively in the context of TPP; and the development of Vietnam’s local textile industry is a critical threat to the survival of US textile and apparel (T&A) manufacturing in the long run.

Originality/value

The findings of the study augment the understanding of the T&A-specific sectoral impact of TPP and address the particular concerns of the US T&A manufacturers with regard to the new business environment and the possible scenarios after the implementation of the agreement.
Brand marketing programs and consumer loyalty – evidence from mobile phone users in an emerging market
Authors: Odoom Raphael
Published: December 2016

Purpose

The paper aims to examine brand marketing efforts and consumer loyalty among mobile phone users. By recognizing different levels of loyalty, the study assesses the degree of importance of the brand marketing programs on high and low loyalty consumer segments within an emerging market context.

Design/methodology/approach

The study uses a sample of 1,000 consumers of three mobile phone brands. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyzes were used in evaluating scale measures, whereas cluster analysis was used to create consumer loyalty segments. Analysis of variance was conducted to evaluate the brand marketing programs within high and low segments before multi-group logistic regressions to assess the impact of brand marketing efforts on consumer loyalty.

Findings

Four principal brand marketing efforts were identified from the data, with varying degrees of importance among high and low loyalty consumer segments. Additionally, from the logistic regression analyzes, the brand marketing efforts exhibited various likelihood results on brand-specific loyalties among consumers of the mobile phone brands.

Originality/value

The findings provide evidence to issues of potential research and managerial interest, with implications to the academic and practitioner communities. Particularly for firms seeking to enter emerging markets, the findings presented in this study provide an understanding of some consumer dynamics in such settings.
Determinants of extended warranty prices for consumer durables
Authors: Estelami Hooman , De Maeyer Peter , Estelami Nicholas
Published: December 2016

Purpose

Research in marketing has extensively examined the signaling effects of product warranties on consumer perceptions. Although this stream of research has focused on initial product warranties offered by the manufacturer, studies of extended warranties, which protect consumers against product breakdowns beyond the warranty constraints of the manufacturer, are relatively scarce. This paper aims to empirically establish the effects of variables which influence the pricing of extended warranties for consumer durables.

Design/methodology/approach

Using data on over 8,000 product offers in six durable goods categories, drivers of the annual premiums for extended warranties are empirically identified. Bivariate and multi-level hierarchical linear regression methods are used to establish the effects of factors which may drive the prices of extended warranties.

Findings

The results reveal that the standardized annual premiums for extended warranties systematically vary across product categories and brands and are further affected by the retailer’s decision to use odd price endings for the sold product and the extended warranty. The influences of warranty length and price level of the protected product on extended warranty premiums are also empirically established.

Research limitations/implications

The findings indicate systematic variations in extended warranty prices as a result of the factors studied. Future research can extend this line of inquiry by utilizing alternative means of data gathering.

Practical implications

Given that marketers often cross-sell many consumer durable goods with extended warranty policies, and considering the growth in consumer spending in this category, as well as the high retail margins associated with extended warranties, this paper contributes to the understanding of the mechanism by which extended warranty prices are determined in the marketplace.

Originality/value

This is the first study to examine the determinants of extended warranty prices, as past studies have been normative and non-empirical in nature.
An exploratory study on the development of women entrepreneurs: Indian cases
Authors: Agarwal Sucheta , Lenka Usha
Published: December 2016

Purpose

For establishing self-esteem and recognition in society, women are attracted towards entrepreneurship. To sustain in the competitive market, businesses carried out by women are mainly dependent on internal resources and their capabilities based on which they try to compete with the external environment. Thus, the aim of the paper is to study the role of internal and external factors in the development of women enterprises.

Design/methodology/approach

The qualitative approach was used based on multiple case studies from India to propose the conceptual framework on the development of enterprises.

Findings

To achieve success, enterprise makes full utilisation of the internal and external factors. The findings suggested that support from family, friends, society, government, non-governmental organisations and financial institutions as well as skills and abilities of an entrepreneur are accountable for initiation and growth of the venture.

Originality/value

This study provides the futuristic direction to policymakers and educators for focusing on the enhancement of women entrepreneurship which plays a crucial role in the economic growth of the country.
Change communication can be so simple! The empathic change communication style
Authors: Düren Petra
Published: December 2016

Purpose

Deliberate large-scale changes in libraries need an accompanying change management. One of the essential success factors of change management is the communication process, as insensitive communication, using e.g. ambiguous wording or inappropriate tonality can cause great damage throughout the change process. Expert interviews with library managers did show that this change communication does not have to be something elaborate and outstanding using all new technological possibilities, but can be kept simple as the most important factors are to give enough information and to get into a conversation, a personal dialogue with team members. The purpose of this paper is to show the details of a change communication style which enables leaders to cope with deliberate large-scale changes.

Design/methodology/approach

The empathic change communication style (ECCo-Style) will be analyzed and described on the basis of an extensive literature research as well as a qualitative research on practical experiences of leaders of different hierarchical levels of academic and public libraries during the change processes.

Findings

The leader’s own action – and with this his or her communication style – has a signaling effect on team members of which each leader needs to be aware of and which can be used to release an enormous pulse, especially during the change processes.

Originality/value

This ECCo-Style is newly designed.
eLearning integration in the library: a case study
Authors: Han Yiye , Yates Steven
Published: December 2016

Purpose

Monash University Library (MUL) has embraced eLearning as a strategy in its contribution to information research and learning skills development within the university. The purpose of this paper is to describe an evaluation of the implementation of the strategy with recommendations for sustaining and improving practice.

Design/methodology/approach

The evaluation is divided into four categories using a mixed methods methodology for evidence gathering. Quantitative and qualitative data are obtained from both primary and secondary sources for an enriched understanding of practices.

Findings

Findings suggest that library staff have gained knowledge and skills indicating a sustainable strategy. However, further work is required to sustain staff development and support staff requirements in the long term.

Research limitations/implications

This research is limited by its wide focus. Although this is mostly resolved through the use of multiple data collection methods, the thoroughness of the evaluation may have suffered while attempting to be comprehensive.

Practical implications

The conclusions of this evaluation as well as methods of its execution can be shared with other institutions wishing to produce eLearning resources in a sustainable and effective manner.

Originality/value

MUL develops its eLearning resources in-house, whereas many other institutions outsource. The findings of this case study could be viewed as a positive indication of this in-house practice, which in turn might inform other organisations who are looking for a financially beneficial eLearning alternative.
Differentiation in organizational structures of university libraries in Pakistan
Authors: Ullah Ahsan
Published: December 2016

Purpose

Differentiation is an important dimension of organizational structure, as it is the building block of organizational structure upon which organizations are based. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the nature of differentiation in central libraries of leading universities in Pakistan.

Design/methodology/approach

Multiple quantitative methods were used to carry out this research. Structured questionnaire, perusal of organizational documents and observation of library section were used to collect data for this study.

Findings

Majority of libraries have divided the entire library operations into five to eight departments, and acquisition, circulation and periodical sections are created in almost all the libraries included in the sample. Unity of command principle is applied at only the section level, but dual chain of command is prevalent for personnel working under the two hierarchical levels, i.e. section head and library head, as they have to report to both of them. In majority of libraries, average span of control ranges from five to ten personnel for the library head and from six to seven personnel for the section head.

Originality/value

No such study is conducted in Pakistan. This study has identified the levels of differentiation and will guide academic library executives in creating a balance in the levels of differentiation to accomplish the objectives of the organization.
Contributing factors in knowledge sharing for performance of university students in teachers’ training programs
Authors: Shah Syed Rahmatullah , Mahmood Khalid
Published: December 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to study stated effects of independent variables of trust, social networks, and information and communication technologies (ICTs) on explicit and tacit knowledge. Further, it explained contributions of explicit and tacit knowledge to performance in academic environment.

Design/methodology/approach

This study is based on research model of hypothetical relationships of various criterion and predictor variables. Structural equation model was used in which research model was analyzed by using confirmatory factor analysis.

Findings

Some criterion variables were observed for predictor variables of explicit and tacit knowledge. It was observed that explicit knowledge contributed indirectly and tacit knowledge contributed directly to overall performance. Current research explained explicit and tacit knowledge as contributors for performance. It also explained effects and patterns of explicit and tacit knowledge toward performance.

Originality/value

This research highlighted that the effects of contributing factors for explicit and tacit knowledge have variations in response to socio-economic and geo-political circumstances. These variations can be expected from other issues like use and access of ICTs. But contributing pattern of knowledge for performance remains same.
Bridging business model and inter-organizational coordination mechanisms in the Italian wine industry
Authors: Pezzillo Iacono Mario , Esposito Vincenza , Mercurio Lorenzo , Martinez Marcello
Published: December 2016

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to interpret the concept of a business model from the pattern of coordination mechanisms used by an Italian wine cooperative to manage its inter-organizational relationships.

Design/methodology/approach

The business model is taken as the structure and governance of the relationships between the focal firm and its exchange partners. The empirical analysis is based on a qualitative investigation, analyzing material collected at the Farming Cooperative Gran Cru.

Findings

Several different coordination mechanisms were used to rethink the firm customer value proposition, showing a very complex and dynamic inter-organizational system: process control mechanisms, knowledge suppliers and clan control mechanisms. The combination of mechanisms enables the firm to govern the extreme complexity of external complementarities and interdependence among activities and resources.

Practical implications

The study is particularly helpful to managers because wine entrepreneurs and managers can influence their networks’ features and strategies, as well as the mechanisms for governance of the relationships and extracting customer value.

Originality/value

The study seeks to enrich the debate on the strategy/structure fit by shifting the focus from the organizational to inter-organizational level of analysis. The analysis centers on boundary-spanning relationships between one wine firm and its partners and knowledge suppliers. This perspective brings business model analysis and inter-organizational design closer because variables of the business model – such as customer value – can be seen as combinations of inter-organizational coordination mechanisms.
Induction of labour for suspected macrosomia at term in non‐diabetic women: a systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Magro‐Malosso ER , Saccone G , Chen M , Navathe R , Di Tommaso M , Berghella V
Published: December 2016

Background

Several randomized controlled trials (RCTs) compared induction of labour with expectant management in non‐diabetic women with suspected fetal macrosomia.

Objective

To evaluate the effects of labour induction for suspected fetal macrosomia.

Search strategy

Literature search in electronic databases.

Selection criteria

We included all RCTs of suspected fetal macrosomia comparing labour induction with expectant management in term pregnancy.

Data collection and analysis

The primary outcome was the incidence of caesarean delivery.

Main results

Four RCTs, including 1190 non‐diabetic women with suspected fetal macrosomia at term, were analysed. Pooled data did not show a significant difference in incidence of caesarean delivery [relative risk (RR) 0.91, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.76–1.09], operative and spontaneous vaginal delivery, shoulder dystocia, intracranial haemorrhage, brachial plexus palsy, Apgar score <7 at 5 min, cord blood pH <7, and mean birth weight comparing women who received induction of labour with those who were managed expectantly. The induction group had a significantly lower time to delivery (mean difference −7.55 days, 95% CI −8.20 to −6.89), lower rate of birth weight ≥4000 g (RR 0.50, 95% CI 0.42–0.59) and ≥4500 g (RR 0.21, 95% CI 0.11–0.39), and lower incidence of fetal fractures (RR 0.17, 95% CI 0.03–0.79) compared with expectant management group.

Conclusion

Induction of labour ≥38 weeks for suspected fetal macrosomia is associated with a significant decrease in fetal fractures, and therefore can be considered as a reasonable option.

Tweetable abstract

#Induction of labour for #macrosomia improves neonatal outcome.
A Very Unusual Accidental Mechanical Asphyxia of Choking with a Whole Solea Solea
Authors: Busardò Francesco Paolo , Mannocchi Giulio , Pugnetti Paola , Santurro Alessandro , Maggiordomo Aldo , Zaami Simona
Published: December 2016

The case here reported involves a schizophrenic 19‐year‐old girl under treatment with clotiapine, which was well tolerated except for a moderate dry mouth. The woman ingested a whole sole (Solea solea), which caused a very rapid death by choking. A complete autopsy was performed 24 h later, as well as histological and toxicological analysis. At autopsy, the sole was wedged in the esophagus causing a choking ab extrinseco. The fish had a length of 18 cm and a maximum width of 6 cm, weighing 188.7 g. Toxicological analysis detected 0.57 mg/L of clotiapine in blood, which falls within the therapeutic range. The peculiarity of this case is represented by two factors: one is the choking by fish and the second was the adverse affect caused by clotiapine, which induced a condition of dry mouth making the act of swallowing even more difficult, thereby contributing to a very rapid mechanical asphyxia and the death of the young woman.
The Prevalence of Paraphernalia Found at the Scene of Drug‐Related Deaths
Authors: Lozano Jason G. , Healy Nicole L. , Kimberley Molina D.
Published: December 2016

Many illicit drugs involve the use of paraphernalia, and the presence of paraphernalia found at the scene of death may suggest that the death is drug‐related. Few sources of objective data are available regarding the prevalence of drug paraphernalia found at the scene of drug‐related deaths or the likelihood of a death with drug paraphernalia found at the scene to be drug‐related. This study reviews the deaths which were investigated by the Bexar County Medical Examiner's Office in an attempt to provide objective data. Over 4000 deaths with scene investigations were reviewed, and the presence of paraphernalia was found to be strongly associated with the death being drug‐related, heroin‐related, or cocaine‐related with the relative risk for each being 5.0, 15.4, and 6.6, respectively. This confirms that the presence of drug paraphernalia at the scene of death strongly suggests the death to be drug‐related and in particular heroin‐related.
The implied equity duration when discounting and forecasting parameters are industry specific
Authors: Fullana Olga , Nave Juan M. , Toscano David
Published: December 2016

We estimate the implied equity duration using industry‐specific parameters. We provide evidence that this procedure improves the ability of implied equity duration to capture stock price risk. We show that it is due to a better capture of both the market risk and residual risk of the market asset pricing model. As expected, the higher the difference in the estimates of duration, the higher the improvement in measuring price risk, but the results also show that the highest improvements are obtained when the usual implied equity duration estimation based on market parameters performs poorly as a price risk measure.
Vulnerability to alcohol‐related problems: a policy brief with implications for the regulation of alcohol marketing
Authors: Babor Thomas F. , Robaina Katherine , Noel Jonathan K. , Ritson E. Bruce
Published: December 2016

Background and Aims

The concern that alcohol advertising can have detrimental effects on vulnerable viewers has prompted the development of codes of responsible advertising practices. This paper evaluates critically the concept of vulnerability as it applies to (1) susceptibility to alcohol‐related harm and (2) susceptibility to the effects of marketing, and describes its implications for the regulation of alcohol marketing.

Method

We describe the findings of key published studies, review papers and expert reports to determine whether these two types of vulnerability apply to population groups defined by (1) age and developmental history; (2) personality characteristics; (3) family history of alcoholism; (4) female sex and pregnancy risk; and (5) history of alcohol dependence and recovery status.

Results

Developmental theory and research suggest that groups defined by younger age, incomplete neurocognitive development and a history of alcohol dependence may be particularly vulnerable because of the disproportionate harm they experience from alcohol and their increased susceptibility to alcohol marketing. Children may be more susceptible to media imagery because they do not have the ability to compensate for biases in advertising portrayals and glamorized media imagery.

Conclusion

Young people and people with a history of alcohol dependence appear to be especially vulnerable to alcohol marketing, warranting the development of new content and exposure guidelines focused on protecting those groups to improve current self‐regulation codes promoted by the alcohol industry. If adequate protections cannot be implemented through this mechanism, statutory regulations should be considered.
Effects of mineral salt supplement on enteric methane emissions, ruminal fermentation and methanogen community of lactating cows
Authors: Li Xiaohua , Liu Chong , Chen Yongxing , Shi Rongguang , Cheng Zhenhua , Dong Hongmin
Published: December 2016

We evaluated the effects of mineral salt supplement on enteric methane emissions, ruminal fermentation and methanogen community of dairy cows over a whole lactation period. Ten Holstein cows fed a total mixed ration (TMR) diet were randomly allocated into two groups, one supplied with mineral salts as the treatment group and the other as the control group. The methane measurement showed that the ingestion of mineral salts lowered enteric methane emissions significantly (P < 0.05), with an average of 10.5% reduction over the whole lactation period. Ruminal fermentation analysis showed the mineral salt intake could significantly decrease the acetate : propionate ratio (P < 0.05). Real‐time PCR assay showed that rumen methanogen abundance significantly reduced in the treatment group (P < 0.05) but was not significantly influenced by mineral salt intake over the whole lactation period. Intergroup methanogen community composition was influenced slightly by mineral salt intake; however, significantly different intragroup profiles were apparent throughout the whole lactation period, according to denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis analysis. In conclusion, these results suggested that the effective mitigation of enteric methane emissions by mineral salt intake could be attributed to decreased density of methanogenic archaea and that fluctuations in methane emission over the lactation period might be related to Methanobrevibacter diversity.
Cardiac effects of amiselimod compared with fingolimod and placebo: results of a randomised, parallel‐group, phase I study in healthy subjects
Authors: Harada Tomohiko , Wilbraham Darren , de La Borderie Guillemette , Inoue Shinsuke , Bush Jim , Camm A. John
Published: December 2016

Aim

Amiselimod (MT‐1303) is a selective sphingosine 1‐phosphate 1 (S1P1) receptor modulator which is currently being developed for the treatment of various autoimmune diseases. Unlike some other S1P receptor modulators, amiselimod seemed to show a favourable cardiac safety profile in preclinical, phase I and II studies. The aim of the current study was to characterize the cardiac effects of amiselimod by directly comparing it with fingolimod and placebo.

Methods

A total of 81 healthy subjects aged 18–55 years were equally randomized to receive amiselimod 0.4 mg, amiselimod 0.8 mg, placebo or fingolimod 0.5 mg once daily for 28 days. The chronotropic/dromotropic and inotropic effects were evaluated using intensive Holter electrocardiogram and echocardiography.

Results

Unlike fingolimod, neither amiselimod dose exerted acute (1–6 h) negative chronotropic effects on Days 1 and 2. The lowest nadir mean hourly heart rate was observed on Day 14 in the amiselimod 0.4 mg group (least squares mean difference: −4.40 bpm, 95% confidence interval −7.15, −1.66) and Day 7 in the 0.8 mg group [−3.85 bpm (−6.58, −1.11)] compared with placebo, but these changes were smaller than those with fingolimod on Day 1 [−6.49 bpm (−8.95, −4.02)]. No clinically significant bradyarrhythmia or cardiac functional abnormalities were observed in either amiselimod group. Both amiselimod doses were well tolerated and no serious adverse events were reported. Fingolimod was also generally well tolerated, although one subject was withdrawn owing to highly frequent 2:1 atrioventricular blocks on Day 1.

Conclusion

The study demonstrated a more favourable cardiac safety profile for amiselimod than fingolimod when administered over 28 days in healthy subjects.
Intra‐stakeholder alliances in plant‐closing decisions: A stakeholder theory approach
Authors: Fassin Yves , de Colle Simone , Freeman R. Edward
Published: December 2016

This article discusses plant‐closing decisions by multinational enterprises (MNEs) applying a stakeholder theory approach. In particular, we focus on the emergence of “intra‐stakeholder alliances,” that is, alliances among the various stakeholder groups of a specific corporation. We analyze the emergence of stakeholder alliances in reaction to MNEs' decisions to terminate production locally and discuss their influence on the outcomes of such decisions. Our research is inspired by two exceptional case studies of two multinational breweries that announced their decisions to close niche breweries in small towns in Italy and Belgium. In both cases, the initial decision was ultimately reversed through the actions of intra‐stakeholder alliances. We combine insights from stakeholder theory and the social movement literature to analyze the action and influence of intra‐stakeholder alliances in seven cases of plant‐closing decisions. We conclude by formulating four general propositions that can provide guidance to MNE management in plant‐closing decisions. Our findings extend managerial stakeholder theory, show how this approach can improve strategic management analysis, emphasize the importance of the relationships among (local) stakeholders in the (global) value‐creation process, and shed light on the collective action and influence of intra‐stakeholder alliances.
Hydrogen peroxide preferentially activates capsaicin‐sensitive high threshold afferents via TRPA1 channels in the guinea pig bladder
Authors: Nicholas S , Yuan S Y , Brookes S J H , Spencer N J , Zagorodnyuk V P
Published: December 2016

Background and Purpose

There is increasing evidence suggesting that ROS play a major pathological role in bladder dysfunction induced by bladder inflammation and/or obstruction. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of H2O2 on different types of bladder afferents and its mechanism of action on sensory neurons in the guinea pig bladder.

Experimental Approach

‘Close‐to‐target’ single unit extracellular recordings were made from fine branches of pelvic nerves entering the guinea pig bladder, in flat sheet preparations, in vitro.

Key Results

H2O2 (300–1000 μM) preferentially and potently activated capsaicin‐sensitive high threshold afferents but not low threshold stretch‐sensitive afferents, which were only activated by significantly higher concentrations of hydrogen peroxide. The TRPV1 channel agonist, capsaicin, excited 86% of high threshold afferents. The TRPA1 channel agonist, allyl isothiocyanate and the TRPM8 channel agonist, icilin activated 72% and 47% of capsaicin‐sensitive high threshold afferents respectively. The TRPA1 channel antagonist, HC‐030031, but not the TRPV1 channel antagonist, capsazepine or the TRPM8 channel antagonist, N‐(2‐aminoethyl)‐N‐[[3‐methoxy‐4‐(phenylmethoxy)phenyl]methyl]thiophene‐2‐carboxamide, significantly inhibited the H2O2‐induced activation of high threshold afferents. Dimethylthiourea and deferoxamine did not significantly change the effect of H2O2 on high threshold afferents.

Conclusions and Implications

The findings show that H2O2, in the concentration range detected in inflammation or reperfusion after ischaemia, evoked long‐lasting activation of the majority of capsaicin‐sensitive high threshold afferents, but not low threshold stretch‐sensitive afferents. The data suggest that the TRPA1 channels located on these capsaicin‐sensitive afferent fibres are probable targets of ROS released during oxidative stress.