bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Jumei: China’s top online cosmetics retailer and the quest to become the top E-commerce hub for women
Authors: Wang Mingan (Joanna) , Uslay Can
Published: September 2018

Subject area

The subject areas are e-commerce, brand management, marketing strategy, digital marketing and supply chain management strategy.

Study level/applicability

Medium, can be used for undergraduate marketing electives and graduate core courses.

Case overview

Jumei, founded in 2010, had already become China’s biggest online retailer of beauty products. Its 31-year-old Founder and Chief executive Officer (CEO) Leo Chen had become the youngest CEO of any NYSE listed company in 2014. However, Jumei was currently facing a major milestone. Could it become a mega-commerce hub like Alibaba? Or should it stick to its core product line – cosmetics – which was already being challenged by luxury retailers and other horizontal e-commerce competitors?

Expected learning outcomes

The case will provide the students the opportunity to conduct a situational analysis Identify and prioritize generic business and marketing strategies, review concepts of brand/line extension and conceive new product ideas, assess Jumei potential as a business-to-customer platform and assess brand equity and potential by comparison to another diversified brand.

Supplementary materials

Teaching notes are available for educators only. Please contact your library to gain login details or email support@emeraldinsight.com to request teaching notes.

Subject Code:

CSS 8: Marketing.
PKC Laundries: a start-up business at the crossroads
Authors: Pagadala Ammani , Gupta Rajiv
Published: September 2018

Subject area

Strategy

Study level/applicability

Strategic Management course in an undergraduate programme.

Case overview

PKC Laundries started a technology-driven laundry service that would be just a click away for their customers and would provide a quick and satisfying cost-effective solution to the customers’ laundry needs. The business, conceived as a start-up, was based on the asset-light aggregation model which used existing vendors to provide the service. The business has been running for almost two years now but has encountered certain operational challenges of vendor management and in generating sufficient operating profits. At this juncture, the question that is bothering the owners is would it be right if PKC went in for backward integration by investing in an automatic laundry plant to manage the risk of dependency on their vendors or should they strengthen and scale-up the present business model? The owners seem to be in a muddle about their strengths and weaknesses and the foreseeable opportunities and threats and going forward what sort of challenges should they prepare themselves for? This case requires the reader to understand the scenario in which a small and medium enterprise (SME) operates within its micro and macro environment. It then makes the reader think and critically analyse the dilemma the young entrepreneurs are facing and identify the problems and possible strategies to overcome these problems. The case highlights the challenges faced by PKC as an aggregator business and the scope of what PKC can do in the future to strengthen its position. It also explores various marketing management issues such as segmenting, targeting and positioning. The case also helps in understanding strategic management issues such as analysis and formulation and implementation of the strategy.

Expected learning outcomes

The expected learning outcomes are as follows: To understand the micro and macro environmental factors affecting a firm; to understand the issues involved in formulating and implementing a strategy; to understand the challenges faced by a start-up (both operational and for scaling up); and to understand the strategies adopted by the company to develop their business.

Supplementary materials

Teaching Notes are available for educators only. Please contact your
library to gain login details or email support@emeraldinsight.com to request teaching notes.

Subject code

CSS 11: Strategy.
Learning from the past? An exploratory study of familial food socialization processes using the lens of emotional reflexivity
Authors: Kharuhayothin Tanyatip , Kerrane Ben
Published: September 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to explore the parental role in children’s food socialization. More specifically, it explores how the legacy of the past (i.e. experiences from the participant’s own childhood) works to inform how parents, in turn, socialize their own children within the context of food, drawing on theories of consumer socialization, intergenerational influence and emotional reflexivity.

Design/methodology/approach

To seek further understanding of how temporal elements of intergenerational influence persist (through the lens of emotional reflexivity), the authors collected qualitative and interpretative data from 30 parents from the UK using a combination of existential–phenomenological interviews, photo-elicitation techniques and accompanied grocery shopping trips (observational interviews).

Findings

Through intergenerational reflexivity, parents are found to make a conscious effort to either “sustain” or “disregard” particular food practices learnt from the previous generation with their children (abandoning or mimicking the behaviours of their own parents within the context of food socialization). Factors contributing to the disregarding of food behaviours (new influencer, self-learning and resistance to parental power) emerge. A continuum of parents is identified, ranging from the “traditionalist” to “improver” and the “revisionist”.

Originality/value

By adopting a unique approach in exploring the dynamic of intergenerational influence through the lens of emotional reflexivity, this study highlights the importance of the parental role in socializing children about food, and how intergenerational reflexivity helps inform parental food socialization practices. The intergenerational reflexivity of parents is, thus, deemed to be crucial in the socialization process.
Mentorship programs in the manufacturing industry
Authors: Bjursell Cecilia , Florin Sädbom Rebecka
Published: September 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to present a literature review of studies of mentorship programs in the manufacturing industry so as to lay a theoretical basis for learning at work.

Design/methodology/approach

A literature review with focus on mentorship programs in the manufacturing industry was used. A search for relevant peer-reviewed articles, in four databases, rendered 315 hits, but only one article dealt with mentorship programs in an industry similar to the manufacturing industry. Thus, it is concluded that there is a lack of research on this area. The selection criteria were broadened so as to include 16 articles on mentorship programs for learning at work.

Findings

Three dominant areas emerged from this review: definitions of mentorship, characteristics of a good mentor and mentorship program structures. The establishment of a mentorship program requires a clear purpose; contextual knowledge; and adaption to the profession, the organization and to individual needs. In addition to their findings, the authors discuss relationships in mentoring programs, what can be understood by “reading between the lines” and the ongoing digitalization of mentorship programs.

Originality/value

Mentorship has proven itself to be a superior way to learn on the job. This paper provides practical information about establishing mentorship programs in the manufacturing industry, with a particular focus on the moulding industry.
The role of knowledge complexity in administration–society collaborations on knowledge
Authors: Pyrozhenko Vadym
Published: September 2018

Purpose

This paper engaged in theory-building from social movement and knowledge management (KM) theories and applied the case study method to explore the role of knowledge complexity in administration–society collaborations on knowledge. Complex knowledge is a kind of knowledge that consists of many interdependent elements, some of which are tacit. Complex knowledge creates challenges when external social groups attempt to transfer their knowledge to public organizations. Thus, the purpose of this paper is to investigate the following question: how do social groups acting as knowledge agents transfer their knowledge if it is complex?

Design/methodology/approach

A single-case study methodology informs the theory-building in this paper. The paper examined a case of collaboration between the natural childbirthing social movement and state maternity hospitals in Russia and Ukraine. The case was constructed from interviews, primary sources and secondary sources.

Findings

Social movement and KM theories were used in a case analysis to formulate theoretical propositions about the complexity of social movement knowledge, why and how movements transfer their knowledge through collaborations with the state, and how administrators assess movement knowledge and its transfer. The case suggests that administrators’ lack of capacity to recognize and deal with complex knowledge results in the underutilization of social groups’ knowledge. In particular, administrators treat complex knowledge as simple, and they misunderstand and underestimate its effects on collaboration.

Originality/value

To the best of this author’s knowledge, this paper is the first attempt in public administration to engage in theory-building from social movement and KM theories.
Do workplace flexibilities influence employment stability? An analysis of alternative work schedules, turnover intent and gender in local government
Authors: Wadsworth Lori , Llorens Jared L. , Facer Rex L.
Published: September 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the relationship between the determinants of public employee turnover intent and the use of workplace flexibilities, with particular attention on the role that gender plays on the relationship between these two constructs.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a cross-sectional quantitative research design, the data collection specifically targeted employees of US municipalities that had a significant portion of their workforce using some type of alternative work schedule. Nine cities from six different states were included in the data collection.

Findings

In support of prior research and conventional wisdom, the authors find that the use of alternative work schedules is associated with lower expressions of turnover intent, but this relationship is only significant for female municipal employees.

Research limitations/implications

One limitation of the study is that it is mono-source data. A second limitation relates to the lack of controls for contextual and occupational characteristics. Further research is needed on the relationship between alternative work schedule choice and turnover, particularly exploring how other characteristics might impact the relationship between employment flexibilities and turnover.

Practical implications

Overall, the results of the analysis align with broader observations of the need for increasing workplace flexibilities and scholarship exploring these flexibilities, especially for female employees who are attempting to integrate their work and family responsibilities.

Originality/value

There has been relatively little research exploring the relationship between the determinants of turnover intent and the use of workplace flexibilities at the municipal level of government. This is particularly important given that employment in local government is larger than both federal and state government employment combined in the USA (US Census Bureau, 2017).
Engaging leaders at two hierarchical levels in organizational health interventions
Authors: Karanika-Murray Maria , Gkiontsi Dimitra , Baguley Thom
Published: September 2018

Purpose

Although visible leader support is an essential ingredient for successful organizational health interventions, knowledge on how leaders at different hierarchical levels engage with interventions is underdeveloped. The purpose of this paper is to explore leader engagement by drawing from the experiences of the intervention team.

Design/methodology/approach

Data from semi-structured interviews with the team responsible for implementing an organizational health intervention in two large UK organizations were used to examine how leaders at strategic (senior management) and operational (line managers) positions engaged with the intervention.

Findings

Thematic analysis uncovered 6 themes and 16 sub-themes covering the leaders’ initial reactions to the intervention, barriers to leader engagement, ways in which the intervention team dealt with these barriers, factors facilitating and factors accelerating leader engagement, and differences in engagement between leadership levels.

Research limitations/implications

This study can inform research into the conditions for optimizing leader engagement in organizational health interventions and beyond. Insights also emerged on the roles of leaders at different hierarchical levels and the value of perspective taking for intervention implementation.

Practical implications

Recommendations for bolstering the engagement of leaders in interventions are offered, that apply to all leaders or separately to leaders at strategic or operational levels.

Originality/value

The experiences of the intervention team who sought to engage leaders at different organizational levels to support the intervention are invaluable. Understanding how leader engagement can be maximized can better equip intervention teams for delivering successful interventions.
Gear fault diagnosis based on a new wavelet adaptive threshold de-noising method
Authors: Cai Jianhua
Published: September 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to explore a new wavelet adaptive threshold de-noising method to resolve the shortcomings of wavelet hard-threshold method and wavelet soft-threshold method, which are usually used in gear fault diagnosis.

Design/methodology/approach

A new threshold function and a new determined method of threshold for each layer are proposed. The principle and the implementation of the algorithm are given. The simulated signal and the measured gear fault signal are analyzed, and the obtained results are compared with those from wavelet soft-threshold method, wavelet hard-threshold method and wavelet modulus maximum method.

Findings

The presented wavelet adaptive threshold method overcomes the defects of the traditional wavelet threshold method, and it can effectively eliminate the noise hidden in the gear fault signal at different decomposition scales. It provides more accurate information for the further fault diagnosis.

Originality/value

A new threshold function is adopted and the multi-resolution unbiased risk estimation is used to determine the adaptive threshold, which overcomes the defect of the traditional wavelet method.
A FSI-thermal model to analyze performance characteristics of hydrostatic turntable
Authors: Liu Chengpei , Hu Junping
Published: September 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to study the performance of hydrostatic turntables by using fluid structure interaction (FSI) and thermal effect coupled model.

Design/methodology/approach

A novel fluid-structure-thermal coupled model is set up to study the problem. The FSI technique and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) method are used by this new model, and the thermal effects are also considered. Hydrostatic turntables with different system parameters (oil supply pressure, oil recess depth and surface roughness) are studied under different working conditions (rotational speeds of turntable and exerted external loads). Performance characteristics obtained from this FSI-thermal coupled model and conventional model are presented and compared.

Findings

Theoretical predictions are in good agreement with the experimental data. The results of new FSI-thermal coupled model are more accurate than those of the old conventional model. To acquire better performance of the system, the novel FSI-thermal model becomes necessary for different hydrostatic turntable systems.

Originality/value

This developed model is a useful tool for studying hydrostatic turntables. To get an improved performance, a proper selection of design parameters of the system based on FSI-thermal model is essential.
Audit firms and industry specialization in an emerging economy
Authors: Hegazy Karim , Hegazy Mohamed
Published: September 2018

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the implications of audit industry specialization on auditor’s retention and growth within an emerging economy. Factors such as whether the firm is a Big 4, a firm with international affiliation, a local firm and the type of industry were studied to analyse the reasons behind audit firm retention and growth.

Design/methodology/approach

This research is based on a field study related to audit firms providing services to listed companies in an emerging economy. The sample includes the top 100 publicly held companies’ in the Egyptian stock market during 2006-2011 for which their annual reports are analysed to determine the audit firms’ retention and growth. An assessment of the continuity of the auditors and the increase in the number of audit clients were also measured.

Findings

The results confirm that industry specialization has an important effect on the auditor’s retention, especially for industries where capital investment is significant such as buildings, construction, financial services, housing and real estate. Big 4 audit firms retained their clients because of their industry specialization and brand name. Evidence was found that good knowledge of accounting and auditing standards resulted in audit firms with international affiliation competing with the Big 4 for clients’ retention and growth.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the existing literature, as it is among the first to provide empirical evidence on auditor retention, growth and auditor’s dominance in an emerging economy such as Egypt.
SEC’s Fixed Income Market Structure Advisory Committee discusses bond market liquidity in its inaugural meeting
Authors: Owens Andre , Weldon Cherie
Published: September 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to summarize the January 11, 2018, Fixed Income Market Structure Advisory Committee’s (“FIMSAC”) inaugural meeting held at the US Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”).

Design/methodology/approach

This paper discusses the various topics covered at the inaugural FIMSAC meeting including the exploration of a variety of bond market liquidity issues, including the metrics for analyzing liquidity in the bond market and what these metrics mean for liquidity and dealer intermediation, electronic trading, exchange-traded funds (ETFs), transparency and potential policy responses to increase liquidity and the efficiency of the market.

Findings

The FIMSAC Chairman proposed the creation of subcommittees addressing modernization, fixed income ETFs and transparency.

Originality/value

This paper contains information on important topics raised by the fixed income market participants to the SEC and is helpful to all entities participating in the fixed income markets.
The anti-GMO advocacy: an institutionalist and systems-theoretic assessment
Authors: Valentinov Vladislav , Hielscher Stefan , Everding Sebastian , Pies Ingo
Published: September 2018

Purpose

Public debates on the use of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) are strongly influenced by the nongovernmental organization (NGO)-led advocacy, most of which is harshly critical of genetic engineering. This advocacy has resulted in discourse failures marked by the disregard for the scientific consensus on the risks and benefits of GMOs. This paper aims to present a theoretical inquiry into this phenomenon.

Design/methodology/approach

Drawing on American institutionalism and Niklas Luhmann social systems theory, the paper explains these discourse failures in terms of the problematic relationship between institutions and technology.

Findings

Clarence Ayres would likely see these discourse failures as a form of “institutional resistance” to the progress of science and technology. In contrast, Marc Tool’s social value principle stresses the importance of democratic legitimation and public acceptance of new technologies, while being sensitive to the possibility of ideologically biased discourses. It is argued that the institutionalist understanding of the interplay between democracy, science and technology would benefit from a better account of Niklas Luhmann’s concept of “complexity reduction”.

Social implications

The study shows that some NGOs are powerful enough to actively shape, if not manipulate, public attitudes and sentiments against GMOs.

Originality/value

The case of the anti-GMO advocacy calls for a new conceptualization of how democracy, science and technology fit together.
Seeing through the eyes of the other
Authors: Sinclair Brian Robert
Published: September 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore three diverse case studies in higher education that provide learners with innovative, disruptive and potent ways of seeing, thinking and acting. It considers pedagogical structure and phenomenological dimensions over an array of study abroad and immersive learning conditions. This paper illustrates rich and impactful ways that learning can unfold, including the unintended consequences of education that opens eyes, changes perspectives and builds empathy.

Methodology

This paper deploys a case study method whereby three unique programs for studio education are critically considered/analyzed. The research connects cases and delineates approaches in environmental design, whereby greater understanding and deeper knowledge can be attained.

Findings

This paper, through study of cases of immersive learning, reveals effective ways in which studio teaching can serve to heighten sensitivity, construct rich self/world views and render visible more profound knowledge. Such knowledge transcends disciplinary boundaries and professional borders – encompassing a fuller spectrum of awareness that includes the social, the cultural and the spiritual.

Research limitations/implications

This paper investigates studio-based graduate education in Environmental Design, with a particular focus on Architecture/Planning. As such, there are limitations to the applicability of discoveries and revelations. That said, the general model for teaching and learning may have value across disciplines well beyond those examined in the current research.

Practical implications

In an increasingly complex world, where cultures and values routinely collide, the research presents pedagogical approaches that promise to erode walls, dissolve barriers and counter fragmentation. The case studies illustrate effective ways to heighten learning beyond the ethos of traditional classes and conventional classrooms.

Originality/value

This paper proffers bold creative models for teaching that defy everyday strategies. It encourages moving students to places/spaces, both concrete and abstract, that challenge their assumptions, test their capabilities and permit exceptional personal/professional growth.
Greenfield investments or acquisitions? The influence of distance on emerging-market multinationals
Authors: Rienda Laura , Claver-Cortes Enrique , Quer Diego , Andreu Rosario
Published: September 2018

Purpose

In recent years, emerging-market multinationals (EMMs) are receiving significant attention in the international business literature. They represent a challenge for the conventional wisdom, mainly derived from the behavior of developed-country multinationals (MNEs). The purpose of this paper is to analyze how different cross-national distances, namely cultural, administrative, geographic and economic, may affect establishment mode choice by Indian MNEs.

Design/methodology/approach

Data are collected from 328 outward foreign direct investments carried out by Indian MNEs in 73 countries from 1991 to 2014. A binomial logistic regression analysis is used to test the hypotheses.

Findings

The results show that cultural and administrative distances negatively affect the choice of an acquisition. Moreover, firm size, acquisition experience, host country experience, industry, belonging to the G20 alliance and being a state-owned enterprise also influence establishment mode choice.

Originality/value

This is one of the first studies that investigate the relationship between distances and establishment mode choice by Indian MNEs. The findings suggest that they follow a different behavioral pattern among EMMs, since their internationalization decisions are closer to those of developed-country MNEs.
Do the S&P 500 index revisions affect corporate bonds and earnings performance?
Authors: Chan Keith , Zhao Ruoyun
Published: September 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the information content in the Standard & Poor (S&P) 500 index revision and its impact on the corporate bonds and earnings of the firms whose stocks are added to or deleted from the index.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper uses panel regressions on a 13-year sample of the companies added and deleted from the S&P 500 index.

Findings

The regression results on the bond yields and earnings show that analysts and investors draw positive (negative) information from Index additions (deletions) and adjust their expectations of the firm performance as well as the required rates of return on corporate bonds after index revisions.

Research limitations/implications

The paper suggests that deletions from the Index have significantly negative impacts on corporate bonds and earnings performance of deleted firms while additions to the index do not have significant impacts on the bonds or realized earnings of added firms.

Originality/value

This paper uses corporate bonds and earnings to test competing hypotheses proposed to explain the excess stock returns of index revision, including information content hypothesis and liquidity hypothesis. The results are consistent with the information content hypothesis and do not support the liquidity hypothesis.
Organizational culture and sustainability in Brazilian electricity companies
Authors: Soares Darticléia Almeida Sampaio da Rocha , Oliva Eduardo Camargo , Kubo Edson Keyso de Miranda , Parente Virginia , Tanaka Karen Talita
Published: September 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to assess the relationship between cultural profiles and the economic, environmental and social dimensions of electricity companies’ reporting based on the Global Reporting Initiative’s (GRI) sustainability framework.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors used the competing values framework, developed by Cameron and Quinn, as the theoretical starting point, with primary data collected through surveys that assessed organizational culture and with secondary data collected through the GRI indicators reported by the companies.

Findings

First, the framework shows whether a company’s organizational culture corresponds with one of the following options: clan, adhocracy, market or hierarchy. The results show that most of the companies’ organizational cultures were hierarchical, characterized by a greater need for stability and control and a formal work environment. Clans were the second most popular type of organizational culture, characterized as having greater internal flexibility, more informal environments and fewer hierarchical levels. Second, by combining the above results with the assessment of the GRI indicators in the companies’ sustainability reports, the study checked whether the companies had strong (balanced) or non-balanced cultures. The results show that there was a greater correlation between a strong (balanced) culture and the total value of the reported indicators, compared to a non-balanced culture.

Originality/value

The paper takes an innovative approach by correlating two different but well-recognized methodologies as a way to create a more holistic assessment that can help stakeholders to understand both the way these companies work and how this choice reflects the transparency of their reporting.
Avoiding corporate collapse
Authors: Whitfield Richard
Published: September 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to review the latest management developments across the globe and pinpoint practical implications from cutting-edge research and case studies.

Design/methodology/approach

This briefing is prepared by an independent writer who adds their own impartial comments and places the articles in context.

Findings

Using financial and non-financial indicators in combination represents the most effective approach to identifying emerging problems within companies.

Originality/value

The briefing saves busy executives, strategists and researchers hours of reading time by selecting only the very best, most pertinent information and presenting it in a condensed and easy-to-digest format.
Responses of Different Cancer Cells to White Tea Aqueous Extract
Authors: Liu Liyue , Liu Bo , Li Jinzhou , Zhen Shengyang , Ye Zuyun , Cheng Meixia , Liu Wei
Published: September 2018

White tea from the eastern Chinese province of Fujian is a unique tea variety. Although the health effects of various teas have been investigated in recent years, most studies focused exclusively on green tea varieties. In order to study effects exerted by white tea from eastern Fujian on the viability of cancer cells, we analyzed its main bioactive ingredients. We also evaluated the antioxidant activity of white tea aqueous extract (WTAE) and employed MTT assay to evaluate effects of WTAE on viabilities of Hela and BEL‐7402 cancer cell lines. Apoptosis rate detection was also applied to estimate efficacy of cellular apoptotic induction by WTAE in these two cells types. Results revealed that WTAE exhibited high antioxidant activity and inhibited effectively the proliferation of Hela and BEL‐7402 cells. The half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) of WTAE for Hela cells (0.05 mg/mL) was lower than that for BEL‐7402 cells (0.1 mg/mL). Although WTAE induced apoptosis in both cell lines, pro‐apoptotic effects were markedly more apparent in Hela cells. Our study demonstrated that WTAE inhibited proliferation of cancer cells via induction of apoptosis and that Hela cells were more sensitive to WTAE than BEL‐7402 cells.

Practical Application

The aim of this study is to provide a new approach toward cancer prevention by consuming white tea, the properties of which may also be helpful in formulating novel anticancer therapeutics.
Déjà Vu: The Effect of Executives and Directors with Prior Banking Crisis Experience on Bank Outcomes around the Global Financial Crisis
Authors: Ahmed Anwer S. , Christensen Brant E. , Olson Adam J. , Yust Christopher G.
Published: September 2018

We investigate the effect of executives and directors with prior banking crisis experience on bank outcomes around the global financial crisis (GFC). Executives and directors with previous experience leading banks through a bank crisis may have been uniquely able to understand the risks, recognize the warnings signs early, and thus respond more effectively to the GFC. Controlling for other executive, director, and bank‐level characteristics, we examine whether bank performance, risk taking, and accounting quality in the period immediately before and during the GFC are affected by having executives or directors who previously served as bank executives or directors during the 1980s/1990s banking crisis (80s/90s crisis). Overall, we find that banks led by these crisis‐experienced executives and directors exhibit stronger performance, lower risk taking, and higher accounting quality in the period around the GFC. These effects are strongest among bank leaders for whom the 80s/90s crisis was most salient. Results are robust to propensity‐matched samples and other analyses performed to rule out alternative explanations. Our results suggest these individuals were able to learn from prior crisis experience.
Point‐of‐care viscoelastic assay devices (rotational thromboelastometry and thromboelastography): a primer for surgeons
Authors: Sharp Gary , Young Christopher J.
Published: September 2018

Background

Bleeding is a common occurrence in surgery. Point‐of‐care testing with viscoelastic (VE) assays such as thromboelastography (TEG) and rotational thromboelastometry (ROTEM) has become more common place. TEG and ROTEM have the potential to guide management of coagulopathy. Many healthcare professionals still rely upon standard laboratory tests (SLTs) to manage a bleeding patient. It was our aim to investigate the literature surrounding management of the surgically bleeding patient via VE assays.

Methods

Literature review of Embase, MEDLINE, PubMed and the Cochrane Library using ‘TEG, ROTEM and surgery’ search terms was conducted.

Results

Through the literature search and reference lists reviewed by both authors, a total of 62 articles have been evaluated, 35 of these have been included in this review.

Conclusion

VE assays are used most commonly during orthotopic liver transplantation, trauma, postpartum haemorrhage and cardiac surgery. Although the evidence is not overwhelming, we have identified recurrent themes where VE assays seem to be beneficial. VE assay use, especially when incorporated into an algorithm, appears to reduce blood product administration which in turn reduces cost and potential adverse events. They are quicker than SLTs and they can detect hyperfibrinolysis, the hallmark of coagulopathy, via in vivo clot analyses which SLTs are unable to do. Ultimately more randomized controlled trials are required.
A meta‐analysis of patients with treatment‐resistant macular oedema secondary to retinal vein occlusions following switching to aflibercept
Authors: Spooner Kimberly , Hong Thomas , Bahrami Bobak , Chang Andrew
Published: September 2018

To systematically review anatomical and functional outcomes of switching therapy from bevacizumab and/or ranibizumab to aflibercept in patients with persistent macular oedema secondary to retinal vein occlusions (RVO). A systematic search of aflibercept for the treatment of persistent macular oedema secondary to branch and central RVO was performed in EMBASE, PubMed and Cochrane databases prior to June 2017. The main outcome variables described were best‐corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and central macular thickness (CMT). All results were analysed and pooled using random‐effects models with 95% confidence intervals (CI). Eight studies met the inclusion criteria with a total of 137 eyes, incorporating both branch and central RVO. Meta‐analysis demonstrated a nonsignificant change in BCVA at 6 and 12 months following switch to aflibercept (4.40 letters, 95% CI: −3.10 to 11.90, p = 0.25 and 3.10 letters, 95% CI: −1.74 to 7.94, p = 0.21, respectively). Significant improvement in mean CMT was observed after switch to aflibercept at 6 (−256.00 μm, 95% CI: −318.00 to −194.00, p < 0.001) but not 12 months (−118.00 μm, 95% CI: −261.00 to 25.00, p = 0.11). Switching from bevacizumab/ranibizumab to aflibercept may improve persistent macular oedema secondary to RVO. However, there may be a limitation in the potential of visual recovery.
Expression of clinically relevant drug‐metabolizing enzymes along the human intestine and their correlation to drug transporters and nuclear receptors: An intra‐subject analysis
Authors: Fritz Anja , Busch Diana , Lapczuk Joanna , Ostrowski Marek , Drozdzik Marek , Oswald Stefan
Published: September 2018

The oral bioavailability of many drugs is highly influenced not only by hepatic but also by intestinal biotransformation. To estimate the impact of intestinal phase I and II metabolism on oral drug absorption, knowledge on the expression levels of the respective enzymes is an essential prerequisite. In addition, the potential interplay of metabolism and transport contributes to drug disposition. Both mechanisms may be subjected to coordinative regulation by nuclear receptors, leading to unwanted drug‐drug interactions due to induction of intestinal metabolism and transport. Thus, it was the aim of this study to comprehensively analyse the regional expression of clinically relevant phase I and II enzymes along the entire human intestine and to correlate these data to expression data of drug transporters and nuclear receptors of pharmacokinetic relevance. Gene expression of 11 drug‐metabolizing enzymes (CYP2B6, 2C8, 2C9, 2C19, 2D6, 3A4, 3A5, SULT1A, UGT1A, UGT2B7, UGT2B15) was studied in duodenum, jejunum, ileum and colon from six organ donors by real‐time RT‐PCR. Enzyme expression was correlated with expression data of the nuclear receptors PXR, CAR and FXR as well as drug transporters observed in the same cohort. Intestinal expression of all studied metabolizing enzymes was significantly higher in the small intestine compared to colonic tissue. CYP2B6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, CYP3A4/5, SULT1A, UGT1A and UGT2B7 expression increased from the duodenum to jejunum but was markedly lower in the ileum. In the small intestine, that is, the predominant site of drug absorption, the highest expression has been observed for CYP3A4, CYP2C9, SULT1A and UGT1A. In addition, significant correlations were found between several enzymes and PXR as well as ABC transporters in the small intestine. In conclusion, the observed substantial site‐dependent intestinal expression of several enzymes may explain regional differences in intestinal drug absorption. The detected correlations between intestinal enzymes, transporters and nuclear receptors provide indirect evidence for their coordinative expression, regulation and function in the human small intestine.
Recent developments in pleurodesis for malignant pleural disease
Authors: Guinde Julien , Georges Samer , Bourinet Valerian , Laroumagne Sophie , Dutau Herve , Astoul Philippe
Published: September 2018

Objective

Metastatic pleural effusion (MPE) is one of the most frequent causes of pleural effusion. The aims of the therapeutic management are palliation of symptoms and improvement in patient’s quality of life. The first step is a therapeutic thoracentesis. In case of a recurrent MPE, pleural maneuvers can be used to manage symptoms based on either ambulatory pleural drainage or pleurodesis to prevent fluid accumulation. The aim of this review is to describe recent advances, according to the best available evidence, in the field of pleurodesis for the management of MPE.

Data source and study selection

Three different searches of the most clinically relevant articles and up‐to‐date results in the field of pleurodesis for the management of MPE were performed using PubMed. Different indexing terms and time restriction were chosen. From these PubMed searches, 322 articles were respectively found. After cross‐checking these three lists and the selection of articles published after January 2010 specially dedicated to the management of MPE by pleurodesis, the abstracts of 106 articles were extracted to feed the corpus of this review.

Results and conclusion

Treatment approaches of recurrent MPE should take into account multiple factors in particular patient’s life expectancy and preference. If talc is the best sclerosing agent alone or in combination with indwelling pleural catheter which is a promising strategy, the pathophysiology of MPE has to be revisited in order to propose a personalized management targeting intrapleural key molecules involved in the genesis of malignant process.
How does environmental regulation affect environmental performance? A case study of China's regional energy efficiency
Authors: Wu Jie , Yang Jiangjiang , Zhou Zhixiang
Published: September 2018

Environmental regulation has been recognized as an important way to directly improve environmental performance or indirectly impact environmental performance through increasing environmental innovation. The present paper constructs an energy and carbon emission total factor productivity index using the Malmquist–Luenberger productivity index and data envelopment analysis. The proposed technique is used to measure the environmental performance of 30 Chinese provinces during the period 2010–2015. The energy and carbon emission total factor productivity measure is divided into a pure technical efficiency index and a technical progress index to provide detailed environmental performance information. Then an ordinary least squares model is adopted to analyse the impact of environmental regulation on environmental innovation operation and environmental performance by hypothesis testing. The empirical results show that environmental regulation and environmental innovation have positive direct effects on environmental performance and that market‐based environmental regulation has a positive indirect effect on environmental performance by increasing environmental innovation.
Novel method for improving fatigue behaviour of laminated glass
Authors: Vedrtnam Ajitanshu
Published: September 2018

Fatigue‐prone structures made of the laminated glass (LG) are yet not given the due consideration by the scientific community. In this work, a novel method that increases the fatigue life and improves the post breakage performance of the LG structure (by modifying the fracture pattern) is reported in the present work. The fatigue life of LG samples (having PVB interlayer of 0.76‐mm thickness) is evaluated using the standard method. Further, a theoretical explanation is presented for improved fatigue behaviour of LG. The effect of treatment of LG and cyclic bending fatigue load on cyclic fatigue strength is reported. The cyclic fatigue strength of LG increases 19.1% to 30.5% for treated LG samples when compared to untreated samples. The finite element model is developed (for treated and untreated LG) using the transient analysis in ANSYS 14.5 (Explicit Dynamics Module) to obtain the maximum deformation at failure load for the corresponding number of cycles. The strain‐life relations are established. The previously established fracture models and underdeveloped nanofracture mechanics concepts are used to explain the fracture patterns of the LG samples. Analysis of variance is conducted to ensure the validity of the experimental results.
A qualitative inquiry of old people's health literacy in situations of health uncertainty
Authors: Matas Hadas , Bronstein Jenny
Published: September 2018

Background

This paper examines the health literacy of seniors and the strategies they use to deal with health uncertainty in the context of changes in the health system in Israel that have created a need to examine health literacy in this sector of the population who use the health system the most. The oldest were born and grew up in an era when a physician's knowledge was unchallenged; now, they find it difficult to cope with the expectation of patients taking a role in decision making.

Methods

In‐depth interviews were carried out with 17 seniors between the ages of 70–87 that focused on their perception of their health and their health literacy. Data were analysed using thematic analysis.

Findings

Seniors used different information sources when looking for medical information. Participants reported three coping mechanisms that help them deal with the uncertainty: disregarding the problem, relying on the physician and searching for information.

Conclusions

The study found different levels of health literacy among participants but, overall, participants who lead an active and optimistic lifestyle tend to take more responsibility for their health and have higher health information literacy.
Elevated metabolites of acetaminophen in cord blood of children with obesity
Authors: Sorrow P. , Maguire R. , Murphy S. K. , Belcher S. M. , Hoyo C.
Published: September 2018

Background

High‐throughput metabolomics has been used cross‐sectionally to evaluate differential metabolic profiles associated with human obesity.

Objectives

This study longitudinally assessed the cord blood metabolome to explore if metabolic signatures of obesity at age 3–5 are apparent at birth.

Methods

In a nested case–control design, metabolomics analysis was performed on umbilical cord blood of 25 children who developed obesity by age 3–5 years, compared with 25 sex‐matched non‐obese children enrolled as part of an ongoing birth cohort. Logistic regression models were used to identify significant metabolites, adjusting for maternal pre‐pregnancy obesity.

Results

Children who had obesity by age 3–5 years had elevated levels of medium and long chain fatty acids including stearate, oleate and palmitate at birth. Children with obesity were also more likely to have elevated levels of acetaminophen metabolites at birth, specifically: 3‐(N‐acetyl‐L‐cystein‐S‐yl) acetaminophen, 2‐hydroxyacetaminophen sulfate, 2‐methoxyacetaminophen glucuronide and p‐acetamidophenyl glucuronide.

Conclusion

Although the observed increases in lipids are consistent with previous metabolomic studies of obesity, this study is the first to report associations between acetaminophen metabolites and obesity in children; however, we lack mechanistic insights for this link. Larger human studies with longer follow‐up and laboratory‐controlled animal experiments are needed to clarify associations.
Taq1a polymorphism (rs1800497) is associated with obesity‐related outcomes and dietary intake in a multi‐ethnic sample of children
Authors: Cardel M. I. , Lemas D. J. , Lee A. M. , Miller D. R. , Huo T. , Klimentidis Y. C. , Fernandez J. R.
Published: September 2018

Background

In adults, the Taq1a polymorphism (rs1800497) near the D2 receptor (DRD2) gene is associated with body mass index and binge eating and is more prevalent among non‐Hispanic Blacks (NHB) and Hispanic–Americans (HA) relative to non‐Hispanic Whites (NHW). We hypothesize Taq1a polymorphism (rs1800497) risk alleles contribute to paediatric racial/ethnic differences in obesity phenotypes.

Objectives

This study aims to characterize the relationship between the Taq1a polymorphism (rs1800497), diet and adiposity in a multi‐ethnic cohort of 286 children (98 NHB, 76 HA and 112 NHW), ages 7–12.

Methods

Dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry, computed tomography scans and two 24‐h dietary recalls assessed body composition, fat distribution and dietary intakes, respectively.

Results

Children with two Taq1a risk alleles (NHB = 50.0%, HA = 43.3%, NHW = 6.7%) reported a 20% increase in total energy intake (P = 0.0034) and per cent of calories from sugar consumed (P = 0.0077) than did children with less than two risk alleles. Children with two Taq1a risk alleles demonstrated significantly higher total body fat (P = 0.0145), body fat percentage (P = 0.0377), intra‐abdominal adiposity (P = 0.0459), subcutaneous abdominal adiposity (P = 0.0213) and total abdominal adiposity (P = 0.0209) than did children with one or no Taq1a risk alleles.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that having two Taq1a risk alleles is associated with an increase in reported calorie and sugar consumption and is a potential risk factor for early development of excess adiposity in multi‐ethnic children. These results need to be confirmed in a larger sample.