bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cranial Remodeling Orthosis for Infantile Plagiocephaly Created Through a 3D Scan, Topological Optimization, and 3D Printing Process
Authors: Geoffroy Maya , Gardan Julien , Goodnough Jason , Mattie Johanne
Published: April 2018

Purpose

This article presents a novel design of a cranial remodeling orthosis (CRO) helmet developed through a three-dimensional (3D) scanning and 3D printing process to correct an infantile plagiocephaly.

Materials and Methods

This research merges a handheld scanner, computer-aided engineering (CAE), and fused deposition modeling (FDM) technologies to propose an alternative to traditional plaster casting. The study finds out all criteria that will merge with requirements, 3D scanning, topological optimization into the CAE, and 3D printing to implement the design for manufacturing (DFM) approach to get a reproducible process that is less invasive for the child.

Results

The project identifies the current limitations and creates design requirements and acceptance criteria to define a design and manufacturing process using a topological optimization method. Based on a child's skull 3D scan, the application aims to manufacture a CRO helmet due to clinical criteria by 3D printing. The new design aims to reduce the time from assessment to initial fitting and to reduce the temperature within the CRO. The project has manufactured a CRO helmet by fused depositing modeling in 3D printing to characterize its mechanical behavior and analyze the possible improvements.

Conclusions

Limitations were found in the material used in the 3D printing, and some recommendations are made to improve the method. The DFM approach is useful for improving the final product by considering manufacturing and use constraints as soon as possible in the design stage, such as part orientation, infill density, and topological optimization parameters as well as the practitioner' skills. The main novelty is to have developed a 3D scanning and 3D printing process to correct an infantile plagiocephaly to obtain a CRO helmet responding to use and manufacturing constraints while proposing a suitable organic shape.
Factors Associated With the Benefits of Concurrent Administration of Intratympanic Steroid Injection With Oral Steroids in Patients With Acute Acoustic Trauma
Authors: Chang Young-Soo , Bang Kanghyun , Choi Nayeon , Kim Jong Sei , Lee Gang-Gyu
Published: April 2018

Objective:

To analyze the factors associated with the benefits of concurrent administration of intratympanic steroid injection (ITSI) and oral steroids in patients with acute acoustic trauma (AAT) incurred during military training.

Study Design:

Retrospective analysis.

Patients:

Nineteen patients eligible under the criteria established concerning treatment for AAT were retrospectively reviewed in this study.

Interventions:

ITSI treatments were administered simultaneously alongside oral prednisolone.

Main Outcome Measures:

Patients were categorized into two groups depending on the time elapsed between exposure to the noise and treatment initiation: 1) “Early Treatment initiation,” defined as the treatment being initiated between 3 and 7 days; and 2) “Delayed treatment initiation,” defined as the treatment being initiated in >7 days. Pure-tone air conduction threshold audiometry, to record the pure-tone average (PTA) at 2, 4, and 8 kHz, was conducted upon each patient's initial visit, and 1 month after starting treatment. The degree of hearing gain (hearing gain [dB] = [initial PTA] – [final PTA]) was calculated and used as the metric for determining the treatment's outcome. The initial PTA and treatment onset were adopted as possible associated factors.

Results:

The mean ages of each group were 22.00 ± 2.12 years and 22.83 ± 2.64 years, respectively (p = 0.28). The initial PTAs were 46.41 ± 12.73 dB and 47.22 ± 14.74 dB, respectively (p = 1.00).

In the multivariable linear regression analysis, the initial PTA and the treatment initiation showed a significant association (R2 = 0.37). The unstandardized regression coefficient of the initial PTA was 0.37 (p = 0.04). Patients with early treatment initiation showed significant improvement in the degree of hearing gain compared with delayed treatment initiation (unstandardized regression coefficient = 12.63, p = 0.01).

Conclusions:

We demonstrated the importance of early treatment onset for maximizing the benefits of concurrent administration of ITSI with oral steroids in patients with AAT suffered during military training. Further evaluation is needed to confirm the factors associated with the efficacy of concurrent ITSI with oral steroids.
Short article: Safety of targeted prophylaxis strategy in patients with resolved hepatitis B virus infection receiving rituximab for immune-mediated diseases
Authors: Spinicci Michele , Emmi Giacomo , Dies Laura , Barilaro Alessandro , Vitiello Gianfranco , Mencarini Jessica , Cavallo Annalisa , Bartoloni Alessandro , Bartalesi Filippo
Published: April 2018

Objectives

Rituximab (RTX) is a monoclonal antibody that is widely used in hematologic malignancies and immune-mediated diseases (IMID) and has been associated with the risk of hepatitis B virus reactivation (HBVr). Thus, antiviral prophylaxis is recommended before RTX treatment in all patients with chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection and those with resolved infection affected by onco-hematological conditions. By contrast, the correct management of HBsAg-negative/HbcAb-positive patients candidates for RTX-containing regimens for IMID is still debated, owing to few data currently available in this setting.

Patients and methods

We retrospectively evaluated the risk of HBVr in patients with IMID with resolved HBV infection, referred to the Infectious and Tropical Diseases Unit Outpatients Service, Careggi Hospital, Florence, Italy, between September 2013 and September 2017, undergoing RTX without antiviral prophylaxis and followed up by serial serum HBV-DNA monitoring.

Results

Overall, 20 patients with IMID were identified (70% female, with median age of 57 years) and followed up for a median period of 19 months (range: 2–36 months). A single HBVr case, detected in preclinical stage, was observed (1/20, 5%), and targeted prophylaxis was promptly introduced.

Conclusion

The results supported the low to moderate risk of HBVr in HBsAg-negative/HBcAb-positive patients with IMID undergoing RTX, in contrast to what is observed in onco-hematological settings. The targeted prophylaxis strategy, based on serum HBV-DNA serial monitoring, seems a safe option in these patients.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Syphilis Summit: Difficult Clinical and Patient Management Issues
Authors: Marra Christina M. , Ghanem Khalil G.
Published: April 2018

Despite over a century of clinical experience in diagnosing and managing patients with syphilis, many thorny clinical questions remain unanswered. We focus on several areas of uncertainty for the clinician: the role of serologic tests in diagnosing syphilis and assessing syphilis treatment responses, and the risk of neurosyphilis and ocular syphilis in patients with syphilis. We also address whether clinical approaches should differ in patients who are, and are not, infected with HIV. The current increases in syphilis rates in the United States and elsewhere underscore our urgent need to definitively address these issues.
Cutaneous Smooth Muscle Tumors: A Review
Authors: Lau Sean K. , Koh Stephen S.
Published: April 2018

Smooth muscle tumors occur infrequently in the skin. They consist of a diverse group of lesions representing hamartomas as well as benign and malignant neoplasms. They may arise from arrector pili muscle, specialized smooth muscle of the genitalia, or vascular smooth muscle. Although rare, accurate diagnosis and classification of cutaneous smooth muscle proliferations is important as they can exhibit a range of clinical behavior and may be associated with underlying syndromes. This review summarizes the clinicopathologic spectrum of smooth muscle tumors involving the skin.
Atypical Hepatocellular Neoplasms: Review of Clinical, Morphologic, Immunohistochemical, Molecular, and Cytogenetic Features
Authors: Choi Won-Tak , Kakar Sanjay
Published: April 2018

The distinction of hepatocellular adenoma from well-differentiated hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) can be difficult in some cases, especially on biopsy specimens. These borderline cases often occur in men or older patients and may have β-catenin activation or focal atypical morphologic features (such as small cell change, prominent pseudoacinar formation, cytologic atypia, focally thick plates, and/or focal reticulin loss) that are insufficient for an unequivocal diagnosis of HCC. The term “atypical hepatocellular neoplasm” has been advocated for these tumors, but a number of other terms, including “atypical adenoma,” “hepatocellular neoplasm of uncertain malignant potential,” and “well-differentiated hepatocellular neoplasm with atypical or borderline features” have also been proposed. This review proposes guidelines for designating tumors as atypical hepatocellular neoplasm and describes clinical, morphologic, immunohistochemical, molecular, and cytogenetic features that distinguish these tumors from typical hepatocellular adenoma and HCC.
Quality Improvement Education in Residency Training
Authors: Massagli Teresa L. , Zumsteg Jennifer M. , Osorio Marisa B.
Published: April 2018

Hospitals and healthcare institutions have strong external and internal pressures to improve patient safety and healthcare quality. Quality improvement education has been mandated for resident physicians by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education. This review describes didactic and experiential curricula for residents in quality improvement interventions as well as factors that create challenges to implementing such a curriculum and those that foster it. Resident attitudes, faculty capacity, institutional resources, and dedicated time are critical elements influencing the success of quality improvement curricula. Faculty interest in quality improvement could be enhanced by academic recognition of their work. Recommendations to facilitate publication of quality improvement efforts are described.
Clinical Improvements Are Not Explained by Changes in Tendon Structure on Ultrasound Tissue Characterization After an Exercise Program for Patellar Tendinopathy
Authors: van Ark Mathijs , Rio Ebonie , Cook Jill , van den Akker-Scheek Inge , Gaida James E. , Zwerver Johannes , Docking Sean
Published: April 2018

Objectives

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of a 4-wk in-season exercise program of isometric or isotonic exercises on tendon structure and dimensions as quantified by ultrasound tissue characterization (UTC).

Design

This was a randomized clinical trial. Volleyball and basketball players (16–31 yrs,n= 29) with clinically diagnosed patellar tendinopathy were randomized to a 4-wk isometric or isotonic exercise program. The programs were designed to decrease patellar tendon pain. A baseline and 4-wk UTC scan was used to evaluate change in tendon structure.

Results

No significant change in tendon structure or dimensions on UTC was detected after the exercise program despite patellar tendinopathy symptoms improving. The percentage and mean cross-sectional area of aligned fibrillar structure (echo types I + II) (Z= −0.414,P= 0.679) as well as disorganized structure (echo types III + IV) (Z= −0.370,P= 0.711) did not change over the 4-wk exercise program. Change in tendon structure and dimensions on UTC did not differ significantly between the groups.

Conclusion

Structural properties and dimensions of the patellar tendon on UTC did not change after a 4-wk isometric or isotonic exercise program for athletes with patellar tendinopathy in-season, despite an improvement in symptoms. It seems that structural improvements are not required for a positive clinical outcome.
Parental Bereavement in Young Children Living in South Africa and Malawi: Understanding Mental Health Resilience
Authors: Macedo Ana , Sherr Lorraine , Tomlinson Mark , Skeen Sarah , Roberts Kathryn
Published: April 2018

Background:

Parental loss is a major stressful event found to increase risk of mental health problems in childhood. Yet, some children show resilient adaptation in the face of adversity across time.

Setting:

This study explores predictors of mental health resilience among parentally bereaved children in South Africa and Malawi and their cumulative effect. The study also explores whether predictors of resilience differed between orphaned and nonorphaned children.

Methods:

Consecutive attenders of community-based organizations (children; 4–13 years, and their caregivers) were interviewed at baseline and 15- to 18-month follow-up (n = 833). Interviews comprising inventories on demographic information, family data, child mental health, bereavement experience, and community characteristics. Mental health screens were used to operationalize resilience as the absence of symptoms of depression, suicidality, trauma, emotional, and behavioral problems.

Results:

Almost 60% of children experienced parental loss. One-quarter of orphaned children showed no mental health problems at either wave and were classified as resilient. There were equal proportions of children classified as resilient within the orphaned (25%) versus nonorphaned group (22%). Being a quick learner, aiding ill family members, positive caregiving, household employment, higher community support, and lower exposure to domestic violence, physical punishment, or stigma at baseline predicted sustained resilience. There were cumulative influences of resilience predictors among orphaned children. Predictors of resilience did not vary by child age, sex, country of residence or between orphaned and nonorphaned children.

Conclusions:

This study enhances understanding of resilience in younger children and identifies a number of potential environmental and psychosocial factors for bolstering resilience in orphaned children.
Reflection from a multi-species material and its transmitted effective wavenumber
Authors: Gower Artur L. , Smith Michael J. A. , Parnell William J. , Abrahams I. David
Published: April 2018

We formally deduce closed-form expressions for the transmitted effective wavenumber of a material comprising multiple types of inclusions or particles (multi-species), dispersed in a uniform background medium. The expressions, derived here for the first time, are valid for moderate volume fractions and without restriction on the frequency. We show that the multi-species effective wavenumber is not a straightforward extension of expressions for a single species. Comparisons are drawn with state-of-the-art models in acoustics by presenting numerical results for a concrete and a water–oil emulsion in two dimensions. The limit of when one species is much smaller than the other is also discussed and we determine the background medium felt by the larger species in this limit. Surprisingly, we show that the answer is not the intuitive result predicted by self-consistent multiple scattering theories. The derivation presented here applies to the scalar wave equation with cylindrical or spherical inclusions, with any distribution of sizes, densities and wave speeds. The reflection coefficient associated with a halfspace of multi-species cylindrical inclusions is also formally derived.
Which food patches are worth exploring? Foraging desert birds do not follow environmental indicators of seed abundance at small scales: a field experiment
Authors: Milesi Fernando A. , de Casenave Javier Lopez , Cueto Víctor R.
Published: April 2018

Consumers should show strong spatial preferences when foraging in environments where food availability is highly heterogeneous and predictable from its correlation with informative environmental features. This is the case for postdispersal granivores in most arid areas, where soil seed bank abundance and composition associates persistently with vegetation structure at small scales (e.g., decimeters to meters). We analysed seasonal single-seed removal by granivorous birds from 300 experimental devices in the algarrobal of the central Monte desert. Spatial selectivity was analysed by comparing the structural characteristics of used vs. available microhabitats and evaluated against bottom-up and top-down hypotheses based on our previous knowledge on local seed bank abundance, composition and dynamics. Seed removal, which showed its expected seasonal variability, was also explored for spatial autocorrelation and environmental dependencies at bigger scales. Postdispersal granivorous birds were less selective in their use of foraging space than expected if patch appearance were providing them useful information to guide their search for profitable foraging patches. No kind of microhabitat, as defined by their vegetation and soil structure, was safe from bird exploration. The only consistent selective pattern at this scale was closer to a top-down spatial effect by birds, i.e., a cause (and not a consequence) of the seed bank dynamics. Bigger spatial scales proved more relevant to describe heterogeneity in the use of foraging patches in this habitat. Closeness to tall trees, probably related to bird territoriality and reproduction or to their perception of predation risk, seems to determine a first level of selection that defines explorable space, and then microhabitat openness exerts an influence on which patches are effectively exploited (or more frequently explored) among those accessible.
Ecological genetic conflict between specialism and plasticity through genomic islands of divergence
Authors: Leimar Olof , Dall Sasha R. X. , McNamara John M. , Kuijper Bram , Hammerstein Peter
Published: April 2018

There can be genetic conflict between genome elements differing in transmission patterns, and thus in evolutionary interests. We show here that the concept of genetic conflict provides new insight into local adaptation and phenotypic plasticity. Local adaptation to heterogeneous habitats sometimes occurs as tightly linked clusters of genes with among-habitat polymorphism, referred to as genomic islands of divergence, and our work sheds light on their evolution. Phenotypic plasticity can also influence the divergence between ecotypes, through developmental responses to habitat-specificcues. We show that clustered genes coding for ecological specialism and unlinked generalist genes coding for phenotypic plasticity differ in their evolutionary interest. This is an ecological genetic conflict, operating between habitat specialism and phenotypically plastic generalism. The phenomenon occurs both for single traits and for syndromes of co-adapted traits. Using individual-based simulations and numerical analysis, we investigate how among-habitat genetic polymorphism and phenotypic plasticity depend on genetic architecture. We show that for plasticity genes that are unlinked to a genomic island of divergence, the slope of a reaction norm will be steeper in comparison with the slope favored by plasticity genes that are tightly linked to genes for local adaptation.
A comprehensive, mechanistically detailed, and executable model of the Cell Division Cycle in Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Münzner Ulrike , Klipp Edda , Krantz Marcus
Published: April 2018

Understanding how cellular functions emerge from the underlying molecular mechanisms is a key challenge in biology. This will require computational models, whose predictive power is expected to increase with coverage and precision of formulation. Genome-scale models revolutionised the metabolic field and made the first whole-cell model possible. However, the lack of genome-scale models of signalling networks blocks the development of eukaryotic whole-cell models. Here, we present a comprehensive mechanistic model of the molecular network that controls the cell division cycle in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. We use rxncon, the reaction-contingency language, to neutralise the scalability issues preventing formulation, visualisation and simulation of signalling networks at the genome-scale. We use parameter-free modelling to validate the network and to predict genotype-to-phenotype relationships down to residue resolution. This mechanistic genome-scale model offers a new perspective on eukaryotic cell cycle control, and opens up for similar models - and eventually whole-cell models - of human cells.
A Notch-regulated proliferative stem cell zone in the developing spinal cord is an ancestral vertebrate trait
Authors: Lara-Ramirez Ricardo , Pérez-González Carlos , Anselmi Chiara , Patthey Cedric , Shimeld Sebastian M.
Published: April 2018

Vertebrates have evolved the most sophisticated nervous systems we know. These differ from the nervous systems of invertebrates in several ways, including the evolution of new cell types, and the emergence and elaboration of patterning mechanisms to organise cells in time and space. Vertebrates also generally have many more cells in their central nervous systems than invertebrates, and an increase in neural cell number may have contributed to the sophisticated anatomy of the brain and spinal cord. Here we study how increased cell number evolved in the vertebrate central nervous system, investigating the regulation of cell proliferation in lampreys as basally-diverging vertebrate, and focusing on the spinal cord because of its relatively simple anatomy. Markers of proliferating cells show that a medial proliferative progenitor zone is found throughout the lamprey spinal cord. We show that inhibition of Notch signalling disrupts the maintenance of this proliferative zone. When Notch signalling is blocked progenitor cells differentiate precociously, the proliferative medial zone is lost, and differentiation markers activate throughout the medial-lateral axis of the spinal cord. Comparison to other chordates suggests that the emergence of a persistent Notch-regulated proliferative progenitor zone in the medial spinal cord of vertebrate ancestors was a critical step for the evolution of the vertebrate spinal cord and its complexity.

Summary statement

Vertebrates develop nervous systems with numerous cells. Study of cell proliferation in the lamprey nervous system links this to a medial proliferation zone regulated by Notch signalling, a vertebrate innovation.
Myricetin Attenuates LPS-induced Inflammation in RAW 264.7 Macrophages and Mouse Models
Authors: Hou Wei , Hu Siyi , Su Zhenzhong , Wang Qi , Meng Guangping , Guo Tingting , Zhang Jie , Gao Peng
Published: April 2018

Background

Myricetin has been demonstrated to inhibit inflammation in a variety of diseases, but little is known about its characters in acute lung injury (ALI). In this study, we aimed to investigate the protective effects of myricetin on inflammation in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells and a LPS-induced lung injury model.

Methods

Specifically, we investigated its effects on lung edema and histological damage by lung W/D weight ratio, HE staining and Evans Blue dye. Then macrophage activation was detected by evaluating the TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-1β mRNA and protein iNOS and COX-2. Myricetin was used to detect the impact on the inflammatory responses in LPS-induced RAW264.7 cells with the same manners in mouse model. Finally, NF-κB and MAPK signaling pathways were investigated with Western blot assay in LPS-induced RAW264.7 cells.

Results

Myricetin significantly inhibited the production of the pro-inflammatory cytokines in vitro and in vivo. The in vivo experiments showed that pretreatment with Myricetin markedly attenuated the development of pulmonary edema, histological severities and macrophage activation in mice with ALI. The underlying mechanisms were further demonstrated in vitro that myricetin exerted an anti-inflammatory effect through suppressing the NF-κB p65 and AKT activation in NF-κB pathway and JNK, p-ERK and p38 in mitogen-activated protein kinases signaling pathway.

Conclusion

Myricetin alleviated ALI by inhibiting macrophage activation, and inhibited inflammation in vitro and in vivo. It may be a potential therapeutic candidate for the prevention of inflammatory diseases.
In vitro iCLIP-based modeling uncovers how the splicing factor U2AF2 relies on regulation by cofactors
Authors: Sutandy F.X. Reymond , Ebersberger Stefanie , Huang Lu , Busch Anke , Bach Maximilian , Kang Hyun-Seo , Fallmann Jörg , Maticzka Daniel , Backofen Rolf , Stadler Peter F. , Zarnack Kathi , Sattler Michael , Legewie Stefan , König Julian
Published: April 2018

Alternative splicing generates distinct mRNA isoforms and is crucial for proteome diversity in eukaryotes. The RNA-binding protein (RBP) U2AF2 is central to splicing decisions, as it recognizes 3′ splice sites and recruits the spliceosome. We establish “in vitro iCLIP” experiments, in which recombinant RBPs are incubated with long transcripts, to study how U2AF2 recognizes RNA sequences and how this is modulated by trans-acting RBPs. We measure U2AF2 affinities at hundreds of binding sites and compare in vitro and in vivo binding landscapes by mathematical modeling. We find that trans-acting RBPs extensively regulate U2AF2 binding in vivo, including enhanced recruitment to 3′ splice sites and clearance of introns. Using machine learning, we identify and experimentally validate novel trans-acting RBPs (including FUBP1, CELF6, and PCBP1) that modulate U2AF2 binding and affect splicing outcomes. Our study offers a blueprint for the high-throughput characterization of in vitro mRNP assembly and in vivo splicing regulation.
Building resilience: how to have a positive impact at the organizational and individual employee level
Authors: Seville Erica
Published: April 2018

Purpose

At some time during its life, every organization will face some form of disruptive crisis. Be it a natural disaster, a reputational crisis, problems within the supply chain, or an issue affecting its people, organizational crises happen more often than we think. In today’s world of change and uncertainty, an organization needs core resilience capabilities to survive. This paper aims to set out three pillars for organizational resilience, identify the questions that leaders need to ask themselves about employee readiness, and offer ten practical ways in which leaders can help their teams to respond effectively in times of disruptive change.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper draws from a variety of sources of research, including the author’s own that tracked businesses’ rates, speed, and quality of recovery following the 2010/2011 earthquakes in Christchurch, New Zealand.

Findings

When an organization is put under pressure, it is their people and how they come together that can make or break the organization. The prevailing culture and the behavior and capabilities of leaders can enhance or erode the resilience of all employees.

Originality/value

Resilience is an aspect of organizational life that is becoming ever more critical but research is still scarce. The advice contained in this paper is based on research and offers grounded advice on how leaders can support and enable their teams to survive and thrive in the VUCA world in which organizations now operate.
Re-thinking employability with a literacies lens
Authors: Kendall Alexandra , French Amanda
Published: April 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to draw on the outcomes of an Higher Education Academy funded project, Literacies for Employability (L4E) to contribute to discussion of the interface between university learning and workplace settings and the focus on employability that dominates the English context. The paper will be of interest to colleagues from any discipline who have an interest in critical (re)readings of employability and practical ways of engaging student in ethnographic approaches to understanding workplace practices, particularly those with an interest in professional, work-based, or placement learning.

Design/methodology/approach

L4E is grounded in social theories of communication from Sociology and Education that understands literacy as a complex social activity embedded in domains of practice. These ideas recognise workplaces as domains that are highly distinctive and diverse contexts for literacy (rather than generic or standard) and that to be successful in particular workplace settings students must be attuned to, and adaptive and fluent in, the nuanced literacy practices of that workplace. However, evidence suggests (Lea and Stierer, 2000) that HE students (and teachers) rarely experience overt teaching about literacy in general or workplace literacies in particular.

Findings

This project developed a framework to scaffold and support this process across the disciplines so that students can develop the attitudes and behaviours they will need to be successful in the workplace.

Originality/value

The approach chimes with recommendations from Pegget al.(2012) that employability is most effectively developed through a focus on more expansive, reflexive approaches to learning and through “raising confidence […] self-esteem and aspirations” (Pegget al., 2012, p. 9).
Challenging the scientific basis of the Paris climate agreement
Authors: Ollila Antero
Published: April 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyze the scientific basis of the Paris climate agreement.

Design/methodology/approach

The analyses are based on the IPCC’s own reports, the observed temperatures versus the IPCC model-calculated temperatures and the warming effects of greenhouse gases based on the critical studies of climate sensitivity (CS).

Findings

The future emission and temperature trends are calculated according to a baseline scenario by the IPCC, which is the worst-case scenario RCP8.5. The selection of RCP8.5 can be criticized because the present CO2 growth rate 2.2 ppmy−1 should be 2.8 times greater, meaning a CO2 increase from 402 to 936 ppm. The emission target scenario of COP21 is 40 GtCO2 equivalent, and the results of this study confirm that the temperature increase stays below 2°C by 2100 per the IPCC calculations. The IPCC-calculated temperature for 2016 is 1.27°C, 49 per cent higher than the observed average of 0.85°C in 2000.

Originality/value

Two explanations have been identified for this significant difference in the IPCC’s calculations: The model is too sensitive for CO2 increase, and the positive water feedback does not exist. The CS of 0.6°C found in some critical research studies means that the temperature increase would stay below the 2°C target, even though the emissions would follow the baseline scenario. This is highly unlikely because the estimated conventional oil and gas reserves would be exhausted around the 2060s if the present consumption rate continues.
Patterns of project-based organizing in new venture creation
Authors: Auschra Carolin , Braun Timo , Schmidt Thomas , Sydow Jörg
Published: April 2018

Purpose

The creation of a new venture is at the heart of entrepreneurship and shares parallels with project-based organizing: embedded in an institutional context, founders have to assemble a team that works on specified tasks within a strict time constraint, while the new venture undergoes various transitions. The purpose of this paper is to explore parallels between both streams of research and an increasing projectification of entrepreneurship.

Design/methodology/approach

The study is based upon a case study of the Berlin start-up ecosystem including the analysis of interviews (n=52), secondary documents, and field observations.

Findings

The paper reveals that – shaped by their institutional context – patterns of project-like organizing have become pertinent to the new venture creation process. It identifies a set of facets from the entrepreneurial ecosystems – more specifically different types of organizational actors, their occupational backgrounds, and epistemic communities – that enable and constrain the process of new venture creation in a way that is typical for project-based organizing.

Originality/value

This study thus elaborates on how institutional settings enforce what has been called “projectification” in the process of new venture creation and discuss implications for start-up ecosystems.
Developing a model to explore the information seeking behaviour of farmers
Authors: Mahindarathne M.G.P.P. , Min Qingfei
Published: April 2018

Purpose

Generating an in-depth understanding of information needs and seeking behaviour is important both for restructuring existing agricultural information systems (ISs) and for creating new ISs. Many information seeking models have been developed over the years, most are narrowly focused on a specific role or discipline. However, no such specific model has been developed in reference to agriculture or an allied discipline. Thus, the purpose of this paper is to develop a model to explore the information seeking behaviour (ISB) of farmers.

Design/methodology/approach

The model proposed in this paper is based on Wilson’s model. The theoretical insights and empirical evidences comprehended at the study were embedded into Wilson’s model to develop a model that explores the ISB of farmers. The proposed model was quantitatively evaluated using empirical data gathered through a survey of 289 farmers. Furthermore, the model was qualitatively evaluated by subject experts against criteria of simplicity, comprehensiveness, exactness, generality and clarity.

Findings

The key finding of this study is the model developed to explore the ISB of farmers. The adapted model provides theoretical and empirical bases for exploring farmers’ ISBs. Thus, the model will be useful in developing valuable design insights to apply to user-centred agricultural ISs.

Originality/value

The originality of this study relates to its demonstration of how existing models can be reconsidered and adapted based on related literature and then tested and presented as adapted models. The proposed model will be useful to promote informational studies in agriculture.
Psychologists’ understanding of the factors influencing successful treatment in a secure forensic environment
Authors: Gale Jessica , Clarbour Jane , Rayner Kelly
Published: April 2018

Purpose

Literature suggests that mentally disordered offenders are considerably more difficult to treat and slower to respond to psychological treatment. Less is known about the particular factors that can contribute to this resistance. A more comprehensive understanding of the factors that treating psychologists feel can promote or inhibit progression through rehabilitative treatment may increase the likelihood of positive clinical outcomes. This paper aims to discuss these issues.

Design/methodology/approach

Four practising psychologists employed within a male medium- and low-secure forensic unit in the North East of England took part in a semi-structured interview. Their views, opinions and experiences regarding patient progression through treatment pathways were recorded, transcribed and analysed.

Findings

This thematic analysis identified that numerous patient-specific parameters influenced perceived progression, and environmental and external factors had a significant impact on the patients’ expressed attitude towards treatment.

Practical implications

Alongside issues of motivation and engagement, participants identified external factors that influence perceived treatment success with their forensic patients.

Originality/value

Additional research is needed to identify the factors that are the most influential in promoting or inhibiting perceived and actual progress. This will hopefully optimise treatment engagement and the motivation to change problematic behaviours in mentally disordered offenders.
Roles of leadership styles and relationship-based employee governance in open service innovation
Authors: Ahmed Farooq , Naqshbandi M. Muzamil , Kaur Sharan , Ng Boon Kwee
Published: April 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the relationship of leadership styles (paternalistic, authentic and democratic) with relationship-based employee governance and open service innovation.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected using a structured questionnaire from 422 medical professionals working in the Malaysian healthcare sector.

Findings

Results of several statistical analyses showed that the three leadership styles positively influence relationship-based employee governance and open service innovation. Results also confirmed the mediating role of relationship-based employee governance in the relationships between the three leadership styles and open service innovation.

Research limitations/implications

This research used a cross-sectional study design; use of a longitudinal research design in future research can provide a better interpretation of the underlying causality. A policy insight can be drawn from this research to generate awareness about effective leadership styles and the role of relationship-based employee governance in the successful implementation of open service innovation in the Malaysian healthcare sector.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to leadership, open innovation, and organizational governance literature by highlighting how leadership styles affect relationship-based employee governance and open innovation. It also offers policy insights to practitioners in the Malaysian healthcare sector on how to enhance open service innovation outcomes.
Modelling the significance of social support and entrepreneurial skills for determining entrepreneurial behaviour of individuals
Authors: Farooq Muhammad Shoaib
Published: April 2018

Purpose

Although entrepreneurial behaviour is considered a key element for economic development, yet very less is known about the determinants of factors leading towards entrepreneurial intention and behaviour. In order to bridge this gap, the purpose of this paper is to investigate the role of social support and entrepreneurial skills in determining entrepreneurial behaviour of individuals. Developing on the base of the theory of planned behaviour (TPB), this study investigates the relationship between social support, entrepreneurial skills and entrepreneurial behaviour along with existing constructs of the TPB (i.e. attitude, subjective norms, perceived behavioural control and entrepreneurial intention).

Design/methodology/approach

Data was collected from 281 respondents using a simple random sampling method, and the variance-based partial least-squares, structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) approach was used for testing the proposed conceptual model.

Findings

Findings of this study have validated the proposed model, which have an explanatory power of 68.3 per cent. Moreover, findings reveal that social support and entrepreneurial skills have a significant impact on entrepreneurial intention of individuals. However, an unanticipated and non-significant relation between subjective norms and entrepreneurial intention is also found.

Research limitations/implications

Due to the limited scope of this study, a multi-group analysis is not possible, which is considered as a limitation of this study. Moreover, due to time constraints, this study is conducted within a specified time-frame; however, a longitudinal study over a period of three to six years can overcome this limitation.

Practical implications

Findings of this study are expected to have substantial implications for policy makers, future researchers and academicians. Outcomes of this study can help to better understand the cognitive phenomenon of nascent entrepreneurs. Moreover, it is expected that this study can serve as a torch-bearer for policy makers to develop better entrepreneurial development programmes, policies and initiatives for promoting self-employment behaviour.

Originality/value

Findings of this study are a unique step forward and offer new insights towards a better understanding of the determinants of entrepreneurial behaviour. Moreover, this study extends Ajzen’s (1991) TPB in the context of entrepreneurial behaviour. By introducing and investigating the impact of two new variables, i.e. social support and entrepreneurial skills in the TPB and by validating the proposed model with PLS-SEM approach, this study makes a sizeable theoretical, methodological and contextual contribution in the overall body of knowledge.
Beyond the heartlands: deindustrialization, naturalization and the meaning of an ‘industrial’ tradition
Authors: Nettleingham David
Published: April 2018

Deindustrialization is a complex and multifaceted series of processes and transitions, reflecting the equally complicated web of social relationships and interdependencies that constitute(d) an industrial society. Contemporary scholars have looked beyond just the economic impact of industrial loss, to the cultural, temporal and spatial legacies and impacts wrought by the mass closures of the 1980s, as well as the continuing presence of an industrial identity in struggles over representation and regeneration. However, deindustrialization has a history that precedes the volatility and culmination of that period, and has impacted upon a more geographically diverse range of former industrial locations than are commonly represented. The narratives that surround some sites are complicated by their displacement in time, place and discourse; they lack the political capital of an ‘industrial’ identity through this disassociation. In this article I aim to go beyond what we might consider the industrial ‘heartlands’ of the UK to a place that has felt the impact of deindustrialization, but which falls outside of the usual representations of the UK's industrial past. I explore how the industrial identity and memory of a place can be naturalized and selectively reworked for the needs of the hour, the very meaning of ‘industrial’ altered in the process. I argue that for sites unable to access or utilize the imagery of modern, heavy industry for community or promotional aims, deindustrialization becomes a process of rewriting an historic identity – one that sheds new light on industrial loss in diverse situations, and at an ever‐increasing distance from closure.
Trends in prevalence of thinness, overweight and obesity among Swedish children and adolescents between 2004 and 2015
Authors: Eriksson Marit , Lingfors Hans , Golsäter Marie
Published: April 2018

Aim

This study explored weight trends among children aged 4, 7, 11, 14 and 17 years in Jönköping County Sweden, from 2004 to 2015.

Methods

The study had a repeated cross‐sectional design, and body mass index (BMI) was calculated based on height and weight measurements collected from child health and school health records. The prevalence of thinness, overweight and obesity was estimated with international cut‐offs, with linear trends calculated separately for boys and girls.

Results

There were 190 965 measurements of BMI and these covered 82–97% of the younger children and 55–69% of the older children during the study period. The prevalence of thinness varied between 0.2% and 2.2% across time and age groups and did not change over the study period. There was a small decrease in overweight among both girls and boys aged four years. There were increasing trends in overweight and obesity in both girls and boys aged 11 and 14 years of age and a sharp increase among 17‐year‐old boys, with 7.3% obese in 2014/2015 and 3.6% in 2004/2005.

Conclusion

The prevalence of obesity decreased from 2004 to 2015 or was stable in younger Swedish children, but increased among older children, with a large increase in adolescent boys.
Mössbauer Studies of Moulded Kama–Cis‐Urals Ceramics
Authors: Valiulina S. I. , Pyataev A. V. , Ivanova A. G. , Manapov R. A. , Voronina E. V.
Published: April 2018

The paper is devoted to the analysis of two genetically related groups of medieval traditional moulded ceramics, which in historical studies of the polyethnic Middle Volga and Kama region fulfil the function of an ethnocultural and chronological marker. Based on the data from Mössbauer studies of clays and archaeological ceramics, the identity of the raw materials and the constancy of ethnographic handicraft traditions in the production of artisanal moulded ceramics over the 9th–15th centuries are shown.
Migrating Industrial Relations: Migrant Workers’ Initiative Within and Outside Trade Unions
Authors: Alberti Gabriella , Però Davide
Published: April 2018

This article develops an embedded actor‐centred framework for studying the mobilization and bargaining practices of migrant workers. This framework is applied to examine two instances of labour organizing by low‐paid Latin American workers in London showing how migrant workers can develop innovative collective initiatives located at the junction of class and ethnicity that can be effective and rewarding in material and non‐material terms. In particular, the article shows that while there is a growing interest on the part of established unions to represent migrant workers, their bargaining and mobilization strategies appear inadequate to accommodate the bottom‐up initiatives of such workers who, as a result, have started to articulate them independently. On the basis of the findings obtained, we thus argue in favour of an actor‐centred framework to the study of migration and IR to better identify migrant workers’ interests, identities and practices as shaped by complex regulatory and social context.
Optimal Sample Weights for Hemispherical Integral Quadratures
Authors: Marques Ricardo , Bouville Christian , Bouatouch Kadi
Published: April 2018

This paper proposes optimal quadrature rules over the hemisphere for the shading integral. We leverage recent work regarding the theory of quadrature rules over the sphere in order to derive a new theoretical framework for the general case of hemispherical quadrature error analysis. We then apply our framework to the case of the shading integral. We show that our quadrature error theory can be used to derive optimal sample weights (OSW) which account for both the features of the sampling pattern and the bidirectional reflectance distribution function (BRDF). Our method significantly outperforms familiar Quasi Monte Carlo (QMC) and stochastic Monte Carlo techniques. Our results show that the OSW are very effective in compensating for possible irregularities in the sample distribution. This allows, for example, to significantly exceed the regular convergence rate of stochastic Monte Carlo while keeping the exact same sample sets. Another important benefit of our method is that OSW can be applied whatever the sampling points distribution: the sample distribution need not follow a probability density function, which makes our technique much more flexible than QMC or stochastic Monte Carlo solutions. In particular, our theoretical framework allows to easily combine point sets derived from different sampling strategies (e.g. targeted to diffuse and glossy BRDF). In this context, our rendering results show that our approach overcomes MIS (Multiple Importance Sampling) techniques.