bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Surgeon's Perceived Value of Patient-reported Outcome Measures (PROMs)
Authors: Mou Danny , Sisodia Rachel C. , Castillo-Angeles Manuel , Ladin Keren , Bergmark Regan W. , Pusic Andrea L. , del Carmen Marcela G. , Heng Marilyn
Published: July 2020

Objective:

To understand the surgeon's perceived value of PROMs in 5 different surgical subspecialties.

Summary of Background Data:

PROMs are validated questionnaires that assess the symptoms, function, and quality of life from the patient's perspective. Despite the increasing support for use of PROMs in the literature, there is limited uptake amongst surgeons. Furthermore, there is insufficient understanding of the surgeons’ perceived value of PROMs. The aim of this study is to understand how surgeons perceive value in PROMs.

Methods:

We conducted an exploratory qualitative study to understand the perceived value of PROMs from the perspective of surgeons in various subspecialties. Per convenience sampling, we conducted semi-structured interviews with 30 surgeons from 5 subspecialties across 3 academic medical centers. The surgical subspecialties included bariatric surgery, breast oncologic surgery, orthopedic surgery, plastic and reconstructive surgery, and rhinology. Interviews were transcribed, coded, and evaluated with thematic analysis.

Results:

Surgeons endorsed that PROMs can be used to enhance clinical management, counsel patients in the preoperative and postoperative settings, and elicit sensitive information from patients that otherwise may go undetected. Obstacles to PROMs use include failure to generate actionable data, implementation obstacles, and inappropriate use of PROMs as a performance metric, with concerns regarding inadequate risk adjustment.

Conclusions:

Establishing an effective PROMs program requires an understanding of the surgeon's perspective of PROMs. Despite obstacles, different subspecialty surgeons find PROMs to be valuable in different settings, depending on the specialty and clinical context.
Postoperative Gastrointestinal Complaints After Laparoscopic Nissen Fundoplication
Authors: Makal Gül B. , Türkçapar Ahmet G.
Published: July 2020

Purpose:

To investigate the postoperative gastrointestinal complaints and their effects on the satisfaction level of patients after laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication (LNF).

Materials and Methods:

Over a 7-year period, 553 patients who underwent “floppy” LNF were evaluated for preoperative and postoperative complaints. For this purpose, a set of questions derived from gastroesophageal reflux disease–health-related quality-of-life questionnaire (GERD-HRQL) was used. A P-value of <0.05 was considered to show a statistically significant result.

Results:

The present study included 215 patients with a mean follow-up of 60 months. Reflux-related symptoms [regurgitation (17.7%), heartburn (17.2%), and vomiting (3.7%)] and nonspecific symptoms [bloating (50.2%), abdominal pain (15.3%), and belching (27%)] showed a significant decrease (P<0.001) after the surgery. Inability to belch (25.1%) and early satiety (29.3%) were the newly emerged symptoms. The percentage of patients with flatulence increased from 23.3% to 38.1% after LNF. There was no significant difference for dysphagia (25.6%) and diarrhea (15.3%) in the postoperative period. Of the patients, 15.3% had recurrent preoperative complaints and 9.8% were using drugs for that condition. Satisfaction level and preference for surgery were 82.8% and 91.6%, respectively. There was no significant difference in GERD-HRQL score according to body mass index.

Conclusions:

This is the first study in which postoperative reflux-related and nonspecific gastrointestinal complaints are analyzed together for a long follow-up period. We found a significant decrease in many reflux-related and nonspecific symptoms. Although some disturbing complaints like inability to belch, early satiety, and flatulence emerged, the preference for surgery did not change.
Low titer group O whole blood resuscitation: Military experience from the point of injury
Authors: Fisher Andrew D. , Miles Ethan A. , Broussard Michael A. , Corley Jason B. , Knight Ryan , Remley Michael A. , Cap Andrew P. , Gurney Jennifer M. , Shackelford Stacy A.
Published: July 2020

INTRODUCTION

In the far forward combat environment, the use of whole blood is recommended for the treatment of hemorrhagic shock after injury. In 2016, US military special operations teams began receiving low titer group O whole blood (LTOWB) for use at the point of injury (POI). This is a case series of the initial 15 patients who received LTOWB on the battlefield.

METHODS

Patients were identified in the Department of Defense Trauma Registry, and charts were abstracted for age, sex, nationality, mechanism of injury, injuries and physiologic criteria that triggered the transfusion, treatments at the POI, blood products received at the POI and the damage-control procedures done by the first surgical team, next level of care, initial interventions by the second surgical team, Injury Severity Score, and 30-day survival. Descriptive statistics were used to characterize the clinical data when appropriate.

RESULTS

Of the 15 casualties, the mean age was 28, 50% were US military, and 63% were gunshot wounds. Thirteen patients survived to discharge, one died of wounds after arrival at the initial resuscitative surgical care, and two died prehospital. The mean Injury Severity Score was 21.31 (SD, 18.93). Eleven (68%) of the causalities received additional blood products during evacuation/role 2 and/or role 3. Vital signs were available for 10 patients from the prehospital setting and 9 patients upon arrival at the first surgical capable facility. The mean systolic blood pressure was 80.5 prehospital and 117 mm Hg (p= 0.0002) at the first surgical facility. The mean heart rate was 105 beats per minute prehospital and 87.4 beats per minute (p= 0.075) at the first surgical facility. The mean hospital stay was 24 days.

CONCLUSION

The use of cold-stored LTOWB at POI is feasible during combat operations. Further data are needed to validate and inform best practice for POI transfusion.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic study, level V.
Do early non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for analgesia worsen acute kidney injury in critically ill trauma patients? An inverse probability of treatment weighted analysis
Authors: Hatton Gabrielle E. , Bell Cynthia , Wei Shuyan , Wade Charles E. , Kao Lillian S. , Harvin John A.
Published: July 2020

BACKGROUND

Administration of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for acute posttraumatic analgesia is increasing in popularity as an alternative to opioids despite reservations regarding its potential impact on the development of acute kidney injury (AKI). We hypothesized that early NSAID administration for analgesia would be associated with worsened renal function in severely injured trauma patients.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study of severely injured adult (≥16 years) patients admitted to the intensive care unit with ≥1 rib fracture between 2010 and 2017 was performed. The early NSAID group was defined by receipt of one or more doses of NSAID within the first 48 hours of hospitalization. Acute kidney injury diagnosis and staging were defined by the Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcomes Guidelines. The primary outcome was a composite measure of two outcomes within the first week of hospitalization: (1) AKI progression (increase in AKI stage from arrival) or (2) death. Secondary outcomes included AKI progression, AKI improvement, AKI duration, and mortality. Inverse propensity of treatment weights were generated using clinically sound covariates suspected to be associated with the decision to give early NSAIDs and the primary or secondary outcomes. Multivariable analyses were performed adjusting for inverse propensity of treatment weights, covariates, and length of stay.

RESULTS

Of 2,340 patients, 268 (11%) were administered early NSAIDs. When compared with the control group, patients who received early NSAIDs were less severely injured. Renal outcomes were worse in the control group. Standardized mean differences were minimal after weighting. On multivariable analysis, administration of early NSAIDs was not associated with worsened renal outcomes or increased mortality.

CONCLUSION

Although only 11% of patients received early NSAIDs after trauma for analgesia, early NSAID exposure was not associated with increased AKI progression, decreased AKI improvement, prolonged duration, or increased mortality. Given the lack of evidence showing harm, early NSAIDs for analgesia may be underused for severely injured patients.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Prognostic, level III, Therapeutic, level IV.
Yorkie-independent negative feedback couples Hippo pathway activation with Kibra degradation
Authors: Tokamov Sherzod A. , Su Ting , Ullyot Anne , Fehon Richard G.
Published: July 2020

The Hippo signaling pathway regulates tissue growth in many animals. Multiple upstream components are known to promote Hippo pathway activity, but the organization of these different inputs, the degree of crosstalk between them, and whether they are regulated in a distinct manner is not well understood. Kibra activates the Hippo pathway by recruiting the core Hippo kinase cassette to the apical cortex. Here we show that the Hippo pathway downregulates Kibra levels independently of Yorkie-mediated transcriptional output. We find that the Hippo pathway promotes Kibra degradation via SCFSlimb-mediated ubiquitination, that this effect requires the core kinases Hippo and Warts, and that this mechanism functions independently of other upstream Hippo pathway activators including Crumbs and Expanded. Moreover, Kibra degradation appears patterned across tissue. We propose that Kibra degradation by the Hippo pathway serves as a negative feedback loop to tightly control Kibra-mediated Hippo pathway activation and ensure optimally scaled and patterned tissue growth.
Exploring the microbial community structure and metabolic gene clusters during silage fermentation of paper mulberry, and developing the high-protein woody plant as ruminant feed
Authors: Du Zhumei , Sun Lin , Chen Chao , Lin Jing , Yang Fuyu , Cai Yimin
Published: July 2020

To develop a new high-protein woody forage resource for livestock, we applied PacBio single-molecule, real-time (SMRT) sequencing technology to explore the community structure, species diversity, and metabolic gene clusters of nature microbes associated with paper mulberry (PM) silage fermentation. The microbial diversity and abundance were rich in PM raw material and decreases with the progress of silage fermentation. Woody ensiling is process that the dominant bacteria shifted from Gram-negative pathogenicProteobacteriato Gram-positive beneficialFirmicutes. Lactic acid bacteria became the most dominant bacteria that affected fermentation quality in the terminal silages. Global and overview maps, carbohydrate metabolism and amino acid metabolism were the important microbial metabolic pathways that impact final fermentation product of silage. PM is rich in nutrients and preserved well during ensiling, indicating PM can develop as new woody resources suitable for ruminants. PacBio SMRT sequencing revealed specific microbial-related information about silage.

IMPORTANCE

In the tropics, there is often a shortage of forage during the dry season. Failure to obtain high-quality feed will reduce the milk and meat production of ruminants. Therefore, it is essential to maximize the use of land and biomass resources through strategic development of alternative feed. Paper mulberry (PM) is a perennial deciduous tree in tropics, with a variety of nutrients and biologically active ingredients, and it adapts to various soils and climates, with high production capacity, and low cultivation costs. In order to develop new potential woody forage, we firstly used PacBio single-molecule real-time (SMRT) sequencing technology to explore the community structure, species diversity and metabolic gene clusters of natural microorganisms related to the fermentation of silage. PacBio SMRT revealed information about specific microorganisms related to silage, indicating PM can prepare as good-quality silage, and will become a new potential woody feed resources for livestock.
Artificial Intelligence-Assisted Loop Mediated Isothermal Amplification (ai-LAMP) for Rapid and Reliable Detection of SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Rohaim Mohammed A , Clayton Emily , Sahin Irem , Vilela Julianne , Khalifa Manar , Al-Natour Mohammad , Bayoumi Mahmoud , Poirier Aurore , Branavan Manoharanehru , Tharmakulasingam Mukunthan , Chaudhry Nouman S , Sodi Ravinder , Brown Amy , Burkhart Peter , Hacking Wendy , Botham Judy , Boyce Joe , Wilkinson Hayley , Williams Craig , Bates Michelle , La Ragione Roberto , Balachandran Wamadeva , Fernando Anil , Munir Muhammad
Published: July 2020

Until vaccines and effective therapeutics become available, the practical way to transit safely out of the current lockdown may include the implementation of an effective testing, tracing and tracking system. However, this requires a reliable and clinically validated diagnostic platform for the sensitive and specific identification of SARS-CoV-2. Here, we report on the development of a de novo, high-resolution and comparative genomics guided reverse-transcribed loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) assay. To further enhance the assay performance and to remove any subjectivity associated with operator interpretation of result, we engineered a novel hand-held smart diagnostic device. The robust diagnostic device was further furnished with automated image acquisition and processing algorithms, and the collated data was processed through artificial intelligence (AI) pipelines to further reduce the assay run time and the subjectivity of the colorimetric LAMP detection. This advanced AI algorithm-implemented LAMP (ai-LAMP) assay, targeting the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase gene, showed high analytical sensitivity and specificity for SARS-CoV-2. A total of ∼200 coronavirus disease (CoVID-19)-suspected patient samples were tested using the platform and it was shown to be reliable, highly specific and significantly more sensitive than the current gold standard qRT-PCR. The system could provide an efficient and cost-effective platform to detect SARS-CoV-2 in resource-limited laboratories.
Effect of acute low oxygen exposure on the proliferation rate, viability and gene expression of C2C12myoblastsin vitro
Authors: Sharkey Jack V
Published: July 2020

INTRODUCTION

Changes in the oxygen concentration of cellular microenvironments play a significant role in regulating cell function during muscle regeneration. Generally, mostin-vitrocell culture experiments have been carried out in atmospheric conditions with 21% O2, which compared to the actual micro-environment of mature skeletal muscle of between 1% and 10% pO2 is extremely hyperoxic (Li et al, 2007). Culturing skeletal muscle cellsin vitrowithin their typical physiologically hypoxic environmentin situ(2-10% pO2) has been shown to increase proliferation rate, reduce apoptosis and increase multiple MRF gene expressions, compared to culturing in a normoxic environment (21% O2). However, chronic exposure (>24 hr) to a semi-severe hypoxic environment (≤5% O2) can lead to a decrease in cell proliferation and differentiation (Chakravarthy et al, 2001). The effects of acute hypoxic exposure (24 h) has limited research and could be important in understanding the effects of hypoxia on skeletal muscle during brief exposures such as those observed within intermittent hypoxic training programmes. The purpose of this work was to examine the role of acute hypoxia (24 h) on C2C12proliferation and relevant gene expression in 2D culture.

METHODS

C2C12mouse myoblast cells were seeded into six well plates. The cells were maintained in DMEM with 20% FCS. C2C12myoblasts were either exposed to 21% or 5% O2. The effects of acute hypoxic exposure (24hours) at different time points during the proliferative phase of myogenesis, rather than chronic exposure, on cell proliferation, cellular viability and myogenic regulatory factor gene expression was examined. At 24, 48, 72 and 96 hours RNA was extracted using the Trizol®method and mRNA expression of myogenic regulatory factors, myoD, myf5 and myogenin were detected using the 2-ΔΔCT method. Cell counts and cell viability were also quantified

RESULTS

No significant difference was found between cells cultured in normoxic conditions (21%) and those that were exposed to low oxygen conditions for 24hours at various time points over a 96 hour culture period, with regards to proliferation rate, cell viability, and myogenic regulatory gene expression (Myf5, MyoDandMyogenin).

DISCUSSION

The effect of acute low oxygen exposure lasting 24hours appears to not be insufficient in having an effect on the proliferation rate, viability or transcription factor expression of C2C12 cells during the proliferative phase of myogenesis.
Comprehensive variant and haplotype landscapes of 50,500 global SARS-CoV-2 isolates and accelerating accumulation of country-private variant profiles
Authors: Shen Lishuang , Bard Jennifer Dien , Biegel Jaclyn A. , Judkins Alexander R. , Gai Xiaowu
Published: July 2020

Understanding the genetic etiology of COVID-19 requires a comprehensive understanding of the variant and haplotype landscape of all reported genomes of SARS-COV-2, the causative virus of the disease. Country-, state/region- and possibly even city-private variant profiles may contribute to varied disease exemplifications and fatality rates observed across the globe along with host factors such as age, ethnicity and comorbidity. The Children’s Hospital of Los Angeles (CHLA) COVID-19 Analysis Research Database (CARD) captures up-to-date fulllength SARS-CoV-2 sequences of ~50,500 isolates from GISAID, GenBank, CHLA Center for Personalized Medicine, and other sources (as of June 18, 2020). Among which, 49,637 isolates carry at least one variation from the reference genome NC_045512, a total of 6,070 variants and 2,513 haplotypes were detected in at least three isolates independently. Together, they constituted the most likely SARS-CoV-2 variant and haplotype landscapes world-wide currently.

Evidence supporting positive (orf3a, orf8, S genes) and purifying (M gene) selections were detected, which warrants further investigation. Most interestingly, we identified 1,583 countryprivate variants from 10,238 isolates (20.6% overall) reported in 48 countries. 807 countryprivate haplotypes, defined as a haplotype shared by at least 5 isolates all of which came from the same country, were identified in in 8,656 isolates from 39 countries. United Kingdom, USA, and Australia had 464, 166 and 32 private haplotypes respectively, comprising 22.4%, 16.6% and 16.4% of the isolates from each country. Together with their descendent and private haplotypes with fewer members, 22,171 (45.8%) isolates carried country-private haplotypes globally. The percentage were 28.2-29.6% in January to March, and rapidly increased to 46.4% and 59.6% in April and May, co-occurring with global travel restrictions. The localization of the variant profiles appeared to be similarly accelerating from 14.2% in March and 28.4% in April to over 40% isolates carrying the country-private variants around May.

In summary, a common pattern is seen world-wide in COVID-19 in which at the onset of disease there appeared to be a significant number of SARS-CoV-2 variants that accumulate quickly and then begin to rapidly coalesce into distinct haplotypes. This may be the result of localized outbreaks due to factors such as multiple points viral introduction, geographic separation and the introduction of policies such as travel restriction, social distancing and quarantine, resulting in the emergence of country-private haplotypes.
Metabolite patterns in human myeloid hematopoiesis result from lineage-dependent active metabolic pathways
Authors: Kaiser Lars , Weinschrott Helga , Quint Isabel , Wenzel Folker , Blaess Markus , Jung Manfred , Kohl Matthias , Deigner Hans-Peter
Published: July 2020

Assessment of hematotoxicity from environmental or xenobiotic compounds is of notable interest and is frequently assessed via the colony forming unit (CFU) assay. Identification of the mode of action of single compounds is of further interest, as such often enables transfer of results across different tissues and compounds. Metabolomics displays one promising approach for identifying such, nevertheless, suitability with current protocols is restricted. Here, we combined an HSPC expansion approach with distinct lineage differentiations, resulting in formation of erythrocytes, dendritic cells and neutrophils. We examined the unique combination of fluxes in glycolysis, glutaminolysis, polyamine synthesis, fatty acid oxidation and synthesis, as well as glycerophospholipid and sphingolipid metabolism. We further assessed their interconnections and essentialness for each lineage formation. By this, we provide further insights into metabolic fluxes during differentiation of HSPC into different lineages, enabling profound understanding of possible metabolic changes in each lineage caused by exogenous compounds.
Combined Effect of Shear Stress and Laser-Patterned Topography on Schwann cell Outgrowth: Synergistic or Antagonistic?
Authors: Babaliari Eleftheria , Kavatzikidou Paraskevi , Mitraki Anna , Papaharilaou Yannis , Ranella Anthi , Stratakis Emmanuel
Published: July 2020

Although the peripheral nervous system exhibits a higher rate of regeneration than that of the central nervous system through a spontaneous regeneration after injury, the functional recovery is fairly infrequent and misdirected. Thus, the development of successful methods to guide neuronal outgrowth,in vitro, is of great importance. In this study, a precise flow controlled microfluidic system with specific custom-designed chambers, incorporating laser-microstructured polyethylene terephthalate (PET) substrates comprising microgrooves, was fabricated to assess the combined effect of shear stress and topography on Schwann cells’ behavior. The microgrooves were positioned either parallel or perpendicular to the direction of the flow inside the chambers. Additionally, the cell culture results were combined with computational flow simulations to calculate accurately the shear stress values. Our results demonstrated that wall shear stress gradients may be acting either synergistic or antagonistic depending on the substrates groove orientation relative to the flow direction. The ability to control cell alignmentin vitrocould potentially be used in the fields of neural tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.
Event-specific interventions to minimize COVID-19 transmission
Authors: Tupper P. , Boury H. , Yerlanov M. , Colijn C.
Published: July 2020

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a global pandemic with over 11 million cases worldwide. Currently there is no treatment and no vaccine. Interventions such as hand washing, masks, social distancing, and “social bubbles” are used to limit community transmission, but it is challenging to choose the best interventions for a given activity. Here, we provide a quantitative framework to determine which interventions are likely to have the most impact in which settings. We introduce the concept of “event R”, the expected number of new infections due to the presence of a single infected individual at an event. We obtain a fundamental relationship between event R and four parameters: transmission intensity, duration of exposure, the proximity of individuals, and the degree of mixing. We use reports of small outbreaks to establish event R and transmission intensity in a range of settings. We identify principles that guide whether physical distancing, masks and other barriers to transmission, or social bubbles will be most effective. We outline how this information can be obtained and used to re-open economies with principled measures to reduce COVID-19 transmission.
A Poorly Understood Disease? The Unequal Distribution of Excess Mortality Due to COVID-19 Across French Municipalities*
Authors: Brandily Paul , Brébion Clément , Briole Simon , Khoury Laura
Published: July 2020

While COVID-19 was already responsible for more than 500,000 deaths worldwide as of July 3, 2020, very little is known on the socio-economic heterogeneity of its impact on mortality. In this paper, we combine several administrative data sources to estimate the relationship between mortality due to COVID-19 and poverty at a very local level (i.e. the municipality level) in France, one of the most severely hit country in the world. We find strong evidence of an income gradient in the impact of the pandemic on mortality: it is twice as large in the poorest municipalities compared to other municipalities. We then show that both poor housing conditions and higher occupational exposure are likely mechanisms. Overall, these mechanisms accounts for up to 60% of the difference observed between rich and poor municipalities.
Sustainability reporting after the Costa Concordia disaster: a multi-theory study on legitimacy, impression management and image restoration
Authors: Corazza Laura , Truant Elisa , Scagnelli Simone Domenico , Mio Chiara
Published: July 2020

Purpose

Can sustainability disclosures be a tool for executing image restoration strategies after corporate manslaughter? This is the question explored in this study of Costa Crociere's sustainability reports after the Concordia disaster.

Design/methodology/approach

Merging traditional textual content analysis with visual analysis and supported by machine learning tools, this is a predominantly qualitative study framed by legitimacy theory, image restoration theory and impression management.

Findings

Costa Crociere's voluntary sustainability reporting is strongly influenced by a mix of text and visual signals that distract readers' attention from the disaster. A “nothing really happened” communication strategy pervades the disclosures, with the only rational motivation being to change perceptions and erase memories of this tragic and avoidable event.

Research limitations/implications

Although the analysis covered multiple sources of corporate information, media coverage was not one of them. A more in-depth exploration of sustainability reporting in the cruise industry, including evidence of similar cases, to test impression management theory would be a worthwhile avenue for future research.

Social implications

While Costa Crociere technically followed the customary guidelines of disclosing human resource impacts, there was almost no acknowledgement of the people involved in the accident. Costa Concierevastly understated their responsibility for the accident, did not apologize, and conveyed very little remorse. The majority of disclosures centred on disaster recovery management.

Originality/value

The authors discuss why and how a company can overcome a legitimacy threat by completely freezing its voluntary sustainability reporting, and the authors show how a company can restore its image by minimizing specific aspects of an accident and shifting attention from the human victims to corporate operations. Incorporating image recognition driven by AI models and combining the results with narrative disclosures contributes an innovative and original analysis technique to the field of impression management. In addition, this research also contributes to our knowledge on the cruise industry – a sector currently under scrutiny for its ethical, social and environmental practices.
Managing the communicative organization: a qualitative analysis of knowledge-intensive companies
Authors: Pekkala Kaisa
Published: July 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore how employees' work-related communication is managed in knowledge-intensive organizations.

Design/methodology/approach

The study was conducted by applying an exploratory, qualitative approach. The data were collected from six knowledge-intensive organizations operating in the professional service sector in Finland, and the data set used included altogether 23 interviews.

Findings

The interviews confirmed that employees' work-related communication on social media is regarded as an increasingly important area, and that it has required companies to establish new managerial processes that are aimed to affect employees’ communication behaviors (ECB) either as enablers or motivators. How companies apply these processes depends on contextual factors, and three different managerial approaches were identified, namely, individual-, corporate- and business-oriented approaches.

Research limitations/implications

Based on the findings, this article proposes a new field for the communication management literature, management of the communicative organization (MCO), which builds on behavior management knowledge and focuses on managing employee communicators in multivocal organizational communication systems (MOCSs) that are dependent on employee-generated content.

Originality/value

The study advances the field of communication management and ECB by empirically proving that organizations manage their employees' work-related communication and the management processes and practices identified derive from behavioral management tradition. The proposed MCO framework introduces a novel area for academic discussion on how communication management affects ECB and attitudes, such as motivation.
Assessing disaster capitalism in post-disaster processes in Chile: neoliberal reforms and the role of the corporate class
Authors: Sandoval Vicente , Gonzalez-Muzzio Claudia , Villalobos Carlos , Sarmiento Juan Pablo , Hoberman Gabriela
Published: July 2020

Purpose

This paper examines disaster capitalism in Chile, that is, the relationships between disasters and neoliberalism. It looks at two post-disaster dimensions: disasters as windows of opportunity to introduce political reforms and disasters as occasions for the corporate class to capitalize on such disasters.

Design/methodology/approach

Two indices, disaster capitalism (DC) and post-disaster private involvement (PDPI), are proposed for cross-case analysis. They are based on legal records, institutional reports and economic data. The DC assesses the introduction of reforms following disasters, while PDPI evaluates the share of public-private funding used for recovery. Both indices are applied here to two disasters in Chile: the 2010 Maule earthquake, and the 2008 Chaitén volcanic eruption.

Findings

Results show that the highly neoliberal Chilean context leaves limited space for new neoliberal reforms. Although recovery is implemented predominantly through the private sector, the state still assumes greater responsibility for recovery costs. Results also detect poor levels of participation from the private sector in accounting their efforts and making them publicly available. Likewise, the research suggests that neoliberal reforms become more likely after disasters. However, the preexisting politico-economic context matters. Finally, there is clearly a need for data systematization in post-disaster recovery.

Originality/value

In the Chilean context, the indices proved beneficial as a strategy for data collection and a method for scrutinizing the implications of neoliberal policy implemented in the wake of disasters, as well as in evaluating the role of the corporate class during recovery.
Direct energy deposition metamodeling using a meshless method
Authors: Abbes Boussad , Anedaf Tahar , Abbes Fazilay , Li Yuming
Published: July 2020

Purpose

Direct energy deposition (DED) is an additive manufacturing process that allows to produce metal parts with complex shapes. DED process depends on several parameters, including laser power, deposition rate and powder feeding rate. It is important to control the manufacturing process to study the influence of the operating parameters on the final characteristics of these parts and to optimize them. Computational modeling helps engineers to address these challenges. This paper aims to establish a framework for the development, verification and application of meshless methods and surrogate models to the DED process.

Design/methodology/approach

Finite pointset method (FPM) is used to solve conservation equations involved in the DED process. A surrogate model is then established for the DED process using design of experiments with powder feeding rate, laser power and scanning speed as input parameters. The surrogate model is constructed using neutral networks (NN) approximations for the prediction of maximum temperature, clad angle and dilution.

Findings

The simulations of thin wall built of Ti-6Al-4V titanium alloy clearly demonstrated that FPM simulation is successful in predicting temperature distribution for different process conditions and compare favorably with experimental results from the literature. A methodology has been developed for obtaining a surrogate model for DED process.

Originality/value

This methodology shows how to achieve realistic simulations of DED process and how to construct a surrogate model for further use in optimization loop.
Owner capabilities in social infrastructure projects: towards an expansion of the dynamic capabilities’ framework
Authors: Gulino Maria Luz , Sergeeva Natalya , Winch Graham
Published: July 2020

Purpose

The project organising literature has increasingly paid attention to the dynamic capabilities required for the development of projects. The current research aims to expand the dynamic capabilities framework by including owner capabilities required throughout the whole project life cycle.

Design/methodology/approach

The research uses an interpretive qualitative research approach. Nineteen semi-structured interviews were conducted with the key actors of a social infrastructure project.

Findings

The findings suggest that the expansion of the dynamic capabilities framework to include owner capabilities required throughout a project life cycle could positively impact the success of a project. “Transformational capabilities” are recommended to enable the owner to overcome challenges and lead the evolution towards project organisations that are capable of transforming its outputs into beneficial use.

Originality/value

Existing research on dynamic capabilities does not address the particular challenges of social infrastructure projects such as housing. The current research fills this gap by exposing the challenges experienced by owners in the development of certain capabilities and their impact on the performance of a project.
The influence of leader empowerment behaviour on employee creativity
Authors: Liu Xuemei , Zhu Zhiwei , Liu Zheng , Fu Chunyan
Published: July 2020

Purpose

This study, based on construal level theory, aims to examine the influential mechanism of leader empowerment behaviour on employee creativity. Specifically, it examines the mediating role of cognitive flexibility between leader empowerment behaviour and employee creativity, along with the moderating effect of consideration of future consequences (CFC) on this linkage.

Design/methodology/approach

A two time-point survey study (n = 214) was conducted to collect information from leaders and employees in terms of mutual evaluation in several Chinese industries. To effectively avoid common source bias, this survey was conducted through pairing leaders and employees. During the survey, the supervisors and subordinates were double-blinded. Correlation analysis and hierarchical regression analysis were used to test the research hypotheses.

Findings

Firstly, leader empowerment behaviour can significantly predict employee creativity. Second, cognitive flexibility plays a partial mediating role in the linkage between leader empowerment behaviour and employee creativity. Thirdly, CFC moderates the relationship between leadership empowerment behaviour and cognitive flexibility. The mediating role of cognitive flexibility underlies the overall moderating effect of CFC on the relationship between leader empowerment behaviour and employee creativity.

Research limitations/implications

We used construal level theory to explain the influence of the mechanism of leader empowerment behaviour on employee creativity. In this manner, this study bridges the gap between theory and practice, as well as enriching the research on leader empowerment behaviour and employee creativity, especially in the Chinese context. Moreover, our study has several practical managerial implications, based on the importance of employee creativity. It inspires the implementation of leader empowerment behaviour, cultivation of employee creativity and introduction of several procedures.

Originality/value

This paper discusses the influential mechanism of leader empowerment behaviour on employee creativity from a new perspective and explains the process of encouraging employee creativity through information-processing methods. It mainly highlights the application of construal level theory to discuss employee creativity and develops a new research frame for employee creativity. Leaders can raise employee creativity through leader empowerment behaviour.
Examining green capabilities as drivers of green supply chain management adoption
Authors: Nkrumah Seth Kofi , Asamoah David , Annan Jonathan , Agyei-Owusu Benjamin
Published: July 2020

Purpose

While there is a growing pool of literature on the drivers of adoption of green supply chain management (GSCM) practices, the literature has not properly explored the role of green capabilities as drivers of GSCM adoption. This study aims to examine four green capabilities (green supplier development, green marketing, green manufacturing and packaging and environmental participation) as the drivers of GSCM adoption.

Design/methodology/approach

The study develops and empirically tests a research model which explores the effect of green capabilities on GSCM adoption. A survey of 200 manufacturing and extractive firms operating in Ghana was conducted, with 94 usable responses obtained. The research model was analyzed by using partial least squares structural equation modeling.

Findings

The results revealed that green supplier development capabilities and environmental participation capabilities had positive and significant effects on GSCM adoption. Green marketing capabilities had a positive but weak effect on GSCM adoption. Green manufacturing and packaging capabilities, however, did not significantly impact GSCM adoption.

Originality/value

To the best of the researchers’ knowledge, this is the first study that empirically examines green capabilities as drivers of GSCM adoption.
Does Sukuk market development promote economic growth?
Authors: Yıldırım Seda , Yıldırım Durmus Cagrı , Diboglu Pelin
Published: July 2020

Purpose

This paper aims to explain the relationship between sukuk market and economic growth. In this context, the study investigates the impact of sukuk market development on economic growth for nine countries (Brunei, Indonesia, Jordan, Kuwait, Malaysia, Nigeria, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan and Turkey) which have Islamic finance and banking system.

Design/methodology/approach

The study analyzed the data of nine countries as Brunei, Indonesia, Jordan, Kuwait, Malaysia, Nigeria, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan and Turkey for periods between 2014Q1 and 2017Q4. As a part of gross domestic product, total sukuk export measured by the sukuk market and the sukuk density which was considered as annual sukuk export per country were used to determine sukuk market development. Inflation, trade deficit and financial stress series were used as control variables.

Findings

It was determined that there was a long-term cointegrated relationship between sukuk market development and economic growth. Sukuk volume and sukuk density had a positive effect on growth in the long run. One unit increase in sukuk volume increased growth by 0.5%, while increase in sukuk density increased growth by 1.7%. According to short-term relationships, it was seen that sukuk variables did not have an effect on growth. However, sukuk exports contributed positively to growth rates in the long run.

Research limitations/implications

The findings of this study are limited with nine countries (Brunei, Indonesia, Jordan, Kuwait, Malaysia, Nigeria, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan and Turkey). Also, the accessible data of sukuk market was used and the periods of 2014Q1–2017Q4 was analyzed in a study. Accordingly, future studies can find different results for different countries which has Islamic finance and banking system for different periods in the global market.

Originality/value

This study provides empirical findings to the related literature, and it proves that sukuk market development contributes positively to the economic growth of countries including Islamic finance and banking system in the long run.
Hong Kong as a property jurisdiction
Authors: Yip Maurice K.-C.
Published: July 2020

Purpose

This study aims to explore how urban governance of Hong Kong is impacted by the formulation and implementation of the new constitutional order of “one country, two systems” that distinguishes between the British colonial government and the current government under Chinese sovereignty.

Design/methodology/approach

While the literature recognises the society of Hong Kong has been heavily relying on land and property activities, few attempts notice the uniqueness of Hong Kong’s sequential constitutional orders and its relations to those activities. This study presents a geographical enquiry and an archival study to illustrate the spatiality of the new constitutional order and its implications on land injustice. Drawing from the works of legal geography and urban studies, this study extends and clarifies Anne Haila’s conception of Hong Kong as “property state” to “property jurisdiction”.

Findings

Though common law and leasehold land system were perpetuated from the colonial period, the new constitutional order changed their practices and the underlying logic and ideology. The urban governance order of this property jurisdiction is intended for prosperity and stability of the society, and for the economic benefit and territorial integrity claim of the Chinese sovereignty.

Originality/value

This study enriches the literature of Hong Kong studies in three major areas, namely, the relationship with China, urban governance and land injustice. It offers a conceptual discussion, which contributes to comparative territorial autonomies studies. It also contributes to legal geography by providing insights beyond the western liberal democracy model.
How 911 callers and call‐takers impact police encounters with the public: The case of the Henry Louis Gates Jr. arrest
Authors: Gillooly Jessica W.
Published: July 2020

Research Summary

The Henry Louis Gates Jr. arrest provides an illuminating case study to show how the omission of dispatch in police reform conversations limits our understanding of police officer action. Using conversation analysis, this article analyzes the 911 call and radio transmission from the Gates incident to dissect the function of the 911 call‐taker, and their impact on policing in the field. This analysis shines light on a previously overlooked call‐taker function—risk appraisal—and concretely shows how the call‐taker played a pivotal role in escalating the caller's uncertainty and, thus, primed the responding officer for a more aggressive encounter.

Policy Implications

Through unpacking precisely how the call‐taker appraised risk—namely through extraction, interpretation, and classification of caller information—this article provides a framework to evaluate call‐taker actions. The findings suggest the need for training that instructs call‐takers to assess risk in more sophisticated ways. Preserving uncertainty may reduce the overestimation or underestimation of incidents and improve future police encounters with the public.
Pre‐diagnostic and post‐diagnostic psychopharmacological treatment of 16 288 patients with bipolar disorder
Authors: Köhler‐Forsberg Ole , Gasse Christiane , Hieronymus Fredrik , Petersen Liselotte , Christensen Rune H. , Nierenberg Andrew A. , Østergaard Søren D.
Published: July 2020

Objectives

The aim was to describe the pre‐diagnostic and post‐diagnostic psychopharmacological treatment of bipolar disorder over the past two decades.

Methods

We identified all 16 288 individuals aged ≥ 18 years, who received their first diagnosis of bipolar disorder at a psychiatric hospital in Denmark between 1997 and 2014. For each calendar year, we calculated the proportion of patients (with index date in the respective calendar years) who were prescribed psychopharmacological treatment in the 2 years preceding and the 2 years following the date of the first diagnosis of bipolar disorder. For patients diagnosed with bipolar disorder from 2007 to 2010 (n = 3949), we described the psychopharmacological treatment from 1995 to 2016, that is, from up to 16 years prior to and up to 10 years after the diagnosis.

Results

Concomitant use of ≥ 2 antidepressants in the 2 years preceding the bipolar disorder diagnosis increased over the study period. In the 2 years following the diagnosis, the use of lithium decreased, while use of atypical antipsychotics (particularly quetiapine), valproate, and lamotrigine increased over the study period. During the 10 years following the diagnosis, 53%‐90% of the patients received any psychotropic drug while 12%‐26% received treatment with an antidepressant without overlapping treatment with a mood‐stabilizing drug.

Conclusion

The increased use of two or more antidepressants suggests more focus on bipolar disorder as a differential diagnosis to treatment‐resistant unipolar depression. The decreased use of lithium (consistent with international trends) and the prevalent use of antidepressants without overlapping treatment with a drug with mood‐stabilizing properties are concerning.
Home Language and Literacy Environments and Early Literacy Trajectories of Low‐Socioeconomic Status Chilean Children
Authors: Mendive Susana , Mascareño Lara Mayra , Aldoney Daniela , Pérez J. Carola , Pezoa José P.
Published: July 2020

This study used Latent Class Analysis to identify groups of children exposed to similar Home Language and Literacy Environments (HLLE) and explored whether belonging to a given HLLE group was related to children’s language and early literacy growth from prekindergarten to kindergarten. Participants were 1,425 Chilean mothers and their children (Mage = 52.52 months at baseline) from low‐socioeconomic status households. Four HLLE groups were identified, which were associated with different trajectories of language and early literacy development. Children from groups whose mothers either read and talk about past events with them or teach them letters in addition to reading and talking about past events, showed higher relative vocabulary and letter knowledge. Implications for research and interventions are discussed.