bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Benefits of Implementing and Improving Collection of Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity Data in Electronic Health Records
Authors: Bosse Jordon D. , Leblanc Raeann G. , Jackman Kasey , Bjarnadottir Ragnhildur I.
Published: February 2018

Individuals in lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender communities experience several disparities in physical and mental health (eg, cardiovascular disease and depression), as well as difficulty accessing care that is compassionate and relevant to their unique needs. Access to care is compromised in part due to inadequate information systems that fail to capture identity data. Beginning in January 2018, meaningful use criteria dictate that electronic health records have the capability to collect data related to sexual orientation and gender identity of patients. Nurse informaticists play a vital role in the process of developing new electronic health records that are sensitive to the needs and identities of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender communities. Improved collection of sexual orientation and gender identity data will advance the identification of health disparities experienced by lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender populations. More inclusive electronic health records will allow providers to monitor risk behavior, assess progress toward the reduction of disparities, and provide healthcare that is patient and family centered. Concrete suggestions for the modification of electronic health record systems are presented, as well as how nurse informaticists may be able to bridge gaps in provider knowledge and discomfort through interprofessional collaboration when implementing changes in electronic health records.
Web App– and Text Message–Based Patient Education in Mohs Micrographic Surgery—A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Hawkins Spencer D. , Koch Sarah B. , Williford Phillip M. , Feldman Steven R. , Pearce Daniel J.
Published: February 2018

BACKGROUND

Consent and wound care (WC) videos are used for education in Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS). Postoperative text messaging is poorly studied.

OBJECTIVE

Develop and evaluate perioperative resources for MMS patients—video modules (DermPatientEd.com) and postoperative text messaging (DermTexts.com).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A study was conducted on 90 MMS patients. Patients were randomized 1:1:1:1 to videos with text messages, videos-only, text messages-only, or control. Primary outcomes included preoperative anxiety and knowledge of MMS and postoperative care. The secondary outcome included helpfulness/preference of interventions.

RESULTS

Patients experienced a 19% reduction in anxiety as measured by a visual analog scale after the MMS video (p = .00062). There was no difference in knowledge after the WC video (p = .21498). Patients were more likely to report the WC video “very helpful” when compared with the pamphlet in understanding postoperative WC (p = .0016). Patients in text messaging groups were not more likely to report the service as “very helpful” when compared with the pamphlet (p = .3566), but preferred to receive WC instructions by text message for future visits (p = .0001).

CONCLUSION

These resources proved helpful and effective in reducing preoperative anxiety. Patients prefer text message–based WC instructions over pamphlets after experiencing the service, but do not find them more helpful.
Comparisons of low-intensity versus moderate-intensity combined aerobic and resistance training on body composition, muscle strength, and functional performance in older women
Authors: Shiotsu Yoko , Yanagita Masahiko
Published: February 2018

Objective:

This study aimed to examine the effects of exercise order of combined aerobic and low- or moderate-intensity resistance training into the same session on body composition, functional performance, and muscle strength in healthy older women. Furthermore, this study compared the effects of different (low- vs moderate-) intensity combined training.

Methods:

A total of 60 healthy older women (age 61—81 y) were randomly assigned to five groups that performed aerobic exercise before low-intensity resistance training (AR-L, n = 12) or after resistance training (RA-L, n = 12), performed aerobic exercise before moderate-intensity resistance training (AR-M, n = 12) or after resistance training (RA-M, n = 12), or nonintervention control conditions (CON, n = 12). Body composition, functional performance, and muscle strength were evaluated before and after the 10-week training.

Results:

No effects of exercise order of combined aerobic and low- or moderate-intensity resistance training (AR-L vs RA-L, AR-M vs RA-M) were observed in body composition, functional performance, or muscle strength, whereas the effects of training intensity of combined training (AR-L vs AR-M, RA-L vs RA-M) were observed on functional performance. All combined trainings significantly increased muscle strength and gait ability (P < 0.01, respectively). Functional reach test significantly increased in the AR-M and RA-M groups (P < 0.01, respectively), and there were significant group differences between AR-L and AR-M (P = 0.002), RA-L and RA-M (P = 0.014).

Conclusions:

Preliminary findings suggest that combined aerobic and low- or moderate-intensity resistance training increases muscle strength and improves gait ability, regardless of the exercise order. Also, greater improvement in dynamic balance capacity, a risk factor associated with falling, is observed in moderate-intensity combined training.
History of vasomotor symptoms, extent of coronary artery disease, and clinical outcomes after acute coronary syndrome in postmenopausal women
Authors: Ferri Luca A. , Morici Nuccia , Bassanelli Giorgio , Franco Nicoletta , Misuraca Leonardo , Lenatti Laura , Jacono Emilia Lo , Leuzzi Chiara , Corrada Elena , Aranzulla Tiziana C. , Colombo Delia , Cagnacci Angelo , Prati Francesco , Savonitto Stefano
Published: February 2018

Objective:

Vasomotor symptoms (VMS) during menopausal transition have been linked to a higher burden of cardiovascular risk factors, subclinical vascular disease, and subsequent vascular events. We aim to investigate the association of VMS with the extent of coronary disease and their prognostic role after an acute coronary syndrome.

Methods:

The Ladies Acute Coronary Syndrome study enrolled consecutive women with an acute coronary syndrome undergoing coronary angiography. A menopause questionnaire was administered during admission. Angiographic data underwent corelab analysis. Six out of 10 enrolling centers participated in 1-year follow-up. Outcome data included the composite endpoint of all-cause mortality, recurrent myocardial infarction, stroke, and rehospitalization for cardiovascular causes within 1 year.

Results:

Of the 415 women with available angiographic corelab analysis, 373 (90%) had complete 1-year follow-up. Among them, 202 women had had VMS during menopausal transition. These women had the same mean age at menopause as those without VMS (50 years in both groups), but were younger at presentation (median age 71 vs 76 years; P < 0.001), despite a more favorable cardiovascular risk profile (chronic kidney dysfunction 4.5% vs 15.9%; P = 0.001; prior cerebrovascular disease 4.5 vs 12.2%; P = 0.018). Extent of coronary disease at angiography was similar between groups (mean Gensini score 49 vs 51; P = 0.6; mean SYNTAX score 14 vs 16; P = 0.3). Overall cardiovascular events at 1 year did not differ between groups (19% vs 22%; P = 0.5).

Conclusions:

In postmenopausal women with an acute coronary syndrome, a history of VMS was associated with younger age at presentation, despite a lower vascular disease burden and similar angiographically defined coronary disease as compared with women without VMS. No difference could be found in terms of overall clinical outcomes. These results should be interpreted cautiously as all analyses were unadjusted and did not account for risk factor differences between women with and without a history of VMS.
Management of Menopausal Symptoms for Women Who Are at High Risk of Thrombosis
Authors: PINKERTON JOANN V. , JAMES ANDRA H.
Published: February 2018

For women at elevated risk of thrombosis, clinicians are challenged to relieve menopausal symptoms without increasing the risk of thrombosis. Oral menopausal hormone therapy increases the risk of venous thromboembolism by 2-fold to 3-fold. Observational studies suggest less thrombotic risk with transdermal therapies and with progesterone over synthetic progestogens (progestins), but the data are limited. Beneficial nonpharmacologic therapies include cognitive behavioral therapy and clinical hypnosis, whereas beneficial nonhormonal pharmacologic therapies include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors. For treatment of the genitourinary syndrome of menopause, vaginal lubricants and moisturizers, low-dose vaginal estrogen, and intravaginal dehydroepiandrosterone are options.
Current Concepts in True Exfoliation Syndrome
Authors: Teekhasaenee Chaiwat
Published: February 2018

True exfoliation syndrome is characterized by the peeling of a translucent membrane from the anterior lens capsule. The condition increases with age and despite the classic association with occupations involving intense heat, most cases are idiopathic. We have proposed a new clinical classification system dividing true exfoliation syndrome into 4 successive stages based on characteristic changes in the anterior capsule. We have also proposed a new mechanism related to iris movement and aqueous flow accounting for the capsular delamination. We have found that a detached flap occurs exclusively in areas that lack the anterior zonules. In our series of 259 consecutive patients, 47 (19.5%) patients developed primary open-angle glaucoma, 26 (10.0%) had primary angle-closure glaucoma, and 15 (5.8%) were primary angle-closure suspects. Twenty-six (10.0%) patients demonstrated spontaneous phacodonesis or anterior lens dislocation, of whom 14 also had secondary angle-closure and 2 had open-angle glaucoma. Histologic studies have shown that the lens dislocation is associated with a lack of anterior zonular support. All patients developed cataracts, predominantly nuclear sclerosis. The double-ring sign frequently occurs during capsulorhexis.
Gastrointestinal Bleeding in Left Ventricular Assist Device: Octreotide and Other Treatment Modalities
Authors: Molina Tara L. , Krisl Jill C. , Donahue Kevin R. , Varnado Sara
Published: February 2018

Left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) offer a therapeutic strategy for patients with end-stage heart failure. Increased device utilization has also increased the incidence of device-related complications including gastrointestinal bleeding (GIB). Multiple mechanisms have been proposed in the pathophysiology of continuous-flow LVAD-associated GIB including physiologic changes associated with high shear and nonpulsatile flow such as gastrointestinal arteriovenous malformations and acquired von Willebrand syndrome. Strategies to minimize the morbidity and mortality of LVAD-associated GIB are needed. Octreotide, a somatostatin analogue, has been described as an adjunct to current therapies and interventions. Factors that contribute to LVAD-associated GIB may be targeted by the pharmacologic effects of octreotide, including improved platelet aggregation, increased vascular resistance, and decreased splanchnic circulation. Octreotide has demonstrated clinical benefit in several case series and clinical trials for the treatment of LVAD-associated GIB. The focus of this article will be to review the pathophysiology of LVAD-associated GIB, discuss pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic treatment modalities, and review available literature on the role of octreotide in the management of LVAD-associated GIB.
Diagnostic performance of a new noninvasive test for nonalcoholic steatohepatitis using a simplified histological reference
Authors: Poynard Thierry , Munteanu Mona , Charlotte Frederic , Perazzo Hugo , Ngo Yen , Deckmyn Olivier , Pais Raluca , Merrouche Wassil , de Ledinghen Victor , Mathurin Philippe , Ratziu Vlad
Published: February 2018

Background

One of the unmet needs in patients with metabolic risks is the prediction of metabolic liver disease (MLD) by noninvasive tests (NITs).

Objective

The primary aim of this study was to construct a new quantitative test for the diagnosis of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) using a simplified histological definition.

Patients and methods

As a reference, we used a simplified histological definition of NASH derived from the FLIP-CRN-definition that does not require the presence of steatosis and the presence of both lobular inflammation and ballooning. We analyzed 1081 patients from two prospective cohorts at risk of MLD who had biopsies and contemporaneous blood samples. These patients were divided randomly into a training group (n=541) and a control group (n=540) for internal validation. The new test was compared with standard tests, and applied in two large populations at risk of MLD.

Results

Out of 1081 patients with biopsy, 39 (3.6%) cases with significant inflammatory activity or fibrosis (A2orF2) were missed by the current histological definitions. The combination of 11 parameters permitted to construct a test (NIT-NASHs) predicting NASH with an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) of 0.773 (95% confidence interval: 0.730–0.810), confirmed in the control group 0.814 (0.774–0.847). The AUROCs of NIT-NASHs were higher (all P<0.001) than those of ActiTest, FIB4, BARD, and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease scores. A combination of NIT-NASHs with FibroTest (AUROC=0.800; 0.759–0.835) enabled a better prediction (P<0.0001) of significant MLD, A2orF2, than the ActiTest–FibroTest combination.

Conclusion

These results suggested that this new test enables a quantitative assessment of NASH, and when associated with the FibroTest, identifies cases with clinically significant MLD. An external validation is needed.
Genetic risk of APOL1 and kidney disease in children and young adults of African ancestry
Authors: Reidy Kimberly J. , Hjorten Rebecca , Parekh Rulan S.
Published: February 2018

Purpose of review

Understanding the genetic risk of APOL1 in children and young adults is important given the lifetime risk of hypertension and kidney disease among children of African descent. We review recent epidemiologic and biologic findings on the effects of APOL1 and kidney disease.

Recent findings

APOL1 in children and young adults is associated with hypertension, albuminuria and more rapid decline in kidney function and progression to end-stage kidney disease, especially among those with glomerular causes of kidney disease, and those affected by sickle cell disease or HIV. There are conflicting data on the APOL1 association with cardiovascular disease in children and young adults. APOL1 functions as part of the innate immune system. Podocyte expression of APOL1 likely contributes to the development of kidney disease. In cell culture and model organisms, APOL1 expression disrupts autophagic and ion flux, leads to defects in mitochondrial respiration and induces cell death.

APOL1 explains almost 70% of the excess risk of kidney disease in those of African descent, and is common in children with glomerular disease. An evolving understanding of the pathogenesis of APOL1-mediated kidney damage may aid in personalized medicine approaches to APOL1 attributable kidney disease.
Precise isometric hand grip learning of hemiparetic stroke patients
Authors: Vámos Tibor , Berencsi Andrea , Fazekas Gábor , Kullmann Lajos
Published: February 2018

Rehabilitation of hand movements after stroke aims at skills that can be well retained and transferred to novel conditions. These functions may be altered by training schedules such as constant and variable practice. A total of 36 participants with hemiparesis completed one of these schedules counterbalanced. Precise isometric hand grip force production was practiced for 4 days with a target force of 25% maximum voluntary contraction. The constant group practiced only the target force, whereas the variable group practiced the same amount including ±5 and 10% maximum voluntary contraction. Target force presentation and feedback were provided visually. Results indicated that both practice schedule led to learning. Variable practice resulted in a superior performance in retention and transfer tests, suggesting that it may be effective not only in the healthy population but also in stroke rehabilitation.
Peripheral Monochromatic Aberrations in Young Adult Caucasian and East Asian Eyes
Authors: Osuagwu Uchechukwu L. , Verkicharla Pavan , Suheimat Marwan , Atchison David A.
Published: February 2018

SIGNIFICANCE

Myopia prevalence rates differ between racial groups. If the growth of the eye is sensitive to differences in optical input, the difference in spherical aberration between East Asian and Caucasian eyes found in this study may be important in understanding myopia development.

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to determine differences in peripheral wavefront aberrations between two racial groups.

METHODS

Wavefront aberrations were measured using a COAS-HD aberrometer across the 42 × 32° central visual field on 37 right eyes of young adults (18 Caucasians, 19 East Asians; mean age 21.5 ± 2.4 years). The mean spherical equivalent refraction was −1.94 ± 1.63 diopters (D) with a range of −5.87 to +0.16 D. Effect of race and visual field position on refractions, individual Zernike aberration coefficients up to the fourth order, higher-order root-mean-square aberration, and total root-mean-square aberration were assessed by repeated-measures analysis of covariance.

RESULTS

Caucasians and East Asians had similar relative peripheral myopia across the visual field. All higher-order aberration coefficients were affected by visual field position. Race had no significant effect on any higher-order Zernike coefficient, but the difference in mean vertical coma coefficient C
3
−1 across the visual field (i.e., average of 38 field locations) approached significance, being less positive in Caucasians than in East Asians (P = .08). When correction was made for the Caucasian group being slightly less myopic than the East Asian group, spherical aberration coefficient C
4
0 was less positive in Caucasians than in East Asians by 0.04 μm (P = .001). The rates of change of coma coefficients across the field were not affected by race.

CONCLUSIONS

Caucasians and East Asians had similar relative peripheral myopia, but with less positive spherical aberration coefficient in Caucasians than in East Asians. It remains to be determined whether aberrations have a role in the difference of myopia prevalence rates in different countries.
A Case Report of an Adenomatoid Tumor of the Uterus Mimicking an Endometrioid Adenocarcinoma on Endometrial Curetting: a Diagnostic Pitfall
Authors: Mhawech-Fauceglia Paulette , Samroa Damanzoopinder
Published: February 2018

Adenomatoid tumors (AT) arising in the female genital tract are usually incidental findings occurring most often in the fallopian tube and uterine serosa and rarely in the myometrium. In the myometrium, they appear grossly as deep seated, small, firm, ill circumscribed nodules mimicking leiomyoma. Histologically they show a glandular and invasive pattern making well-differentiated/low-grade endometrioid adenocarcinoma a major differential diagnosis. However, this differential is rarely encountered in practice because myometrial AT is usually seen on the hysterectomy specimen, because of their anatomic position in the deep myometrium, and only rarely in endometrial curettings. Our case is the first to report an AT, which presented as a polyp with associated fibroid on hysterescopic examination. Microscopically, the endometrial curetting and myomectomy showed irregular glands and cystic structures with occasional cytokeratin positive single signet-ring like cells invading into the myometrium, features consistent with low-grade endometrioid adenocarcinoma. On hysterectomy specimen, there was an ill-defined 5 cm mass in the myometrium with protrusion into the endometrium. The morphology was similar to that seen in the endometrial curetting. A larger panel of immunostains was done and the neoplastic cells were positive for AE1/3, CK7, CAM5.2, calretinin, and D2-40 and negative for CD34. A diagnosis of AT was rendered and no further treatment was required. Although AT is rarely seen in endometrial curetting, they should be in the differential diagnosis of glandular lesions to avoid pitfalls and unnecessary management especially in young patients desiring fertility.
HMGA2 Gene Expression in Fine-needle Aspiration Samples of Thyroid Nodules as a Marker for Preoperative Diagnosis of Thyroid Cancer
Authors: Šamija Ivan , Mateša Neven , Kožaj Sanja , Majstorović Ivana , Bolanča Ante , Kusić Zvonko
Published: February 2018

There is a great interest in molecular markers that would help in the preoperative diagnosis of malignant thyroid nodules in cases of indeterminate fine-needle aspiration cytology. The aim of this study was to determine the diagnostic accuracy of HMGA2 gene expression in discriminating benign from malignant thyroid nodules. In this study, 237 preoperative thyroid fine-needle aspiration samples were analyzed prospectively for the expression of the HMGA2 gene by real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction. The results were evaluated against the postoperative histopathologic diagnosis or definitive cytologic diagnosis in cases of nodular goiter and Hashimoto thyroiditis. Among 237 samples from patients with thyroid nodules that were analyzed, 231 were adequate for real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction analysis. With a cutoff value of 8.71 for relative gene expression, HMGA2 was positive in 19 (16.4%) of 116 nodular goiter, 1 (2.6%) of 39 Hashimoto thyroiditis, 9 (28.1%) of 32 follicular adenoma, 0 (0%) of 5 Hurthle cell adenoma, 32 (88.9%) of 36 papillary carcinoma, and 3 (100%) of 3 follicular carcinoma samples. In discriminating between malignant and benign thyroid nodules, HMGA2 has shown specificity of 84.5%, sensitivity of 91.9%, positive predictive value of 53.1%, and negative predictive value of 98.2%. High sensitivity and negative predictive value of HMGA2 for preoperative detection of malignant thyroid nodules shown in this study indicate that it may have a role as an ancillary marker in cytology in the management of patients with thyroid nodules.
Survey of Bedside Clinical Neurologic Assessments in U.S. PICUs*
Authors: Kirschen Matthew P. , Snyder Megan , Winters Madeline , Ichord Rebecca , Berg Robert A. , Nadkarni Vinay , Topjian Alexis
Published: February 2018

Objective:

To understand how routine bedside clinical neurologic assessments are performed in U.S. PICUs.

Design:

Electronic survey.

Setting:

Academic PICUs throughout the United States.

Subjects:

Faculty representatives from PICUs throughout the United States.

Interventions:

None.

Measurements and Main Results:

We surveyed how routine bedside neurologic assessments are reported to be performed in U.S. PICUs and the attitudes of respondents on the utility of these assessments. The survey contained questions regarding 1) components of neurologic assessments; 2) frequency of neurologic assessments; 3) documentation and communication of changes in neurologic assessment; and 4) optimization of neurologic assessments. Surveys were received from 64 of 67 institutions (96%). Glasgow Coma Scale and pupillary reflex were the most commonly reported assessments (80% and 92% of institutions, respectively). For patients with acute brain injury, 95% of institutions performed neurologic assessments hourly although assessment frequency was more variable for patients at low risk of developing brain injury and those at high risk for brain injury, but without overt injury. In 73% of institutions, any change detected on routine neuroassessment was communicated to providers, whereas in 27%, communication depended on the severity or degree of neurologic decline. Seventy percent of respondents thought that their current practice for assessing and monitoring neurologic status was suboptimal. Only 57% felt that the Glasgow Coma Scale was a valuable tool for the serial assessment of neurologic function in the ICU. Ninety-two percent felt that a standardized approach to assessing and documenting preillness neurologic function would be valuable.

Conclusions:

Routine neurologic assessments are reported to be conducted in nearly all academic PICUs in the United States with fellowship training programs although the content, frequency, and triggers for communication vary between institutions. Most physicians felt that the current paradigms for neurologic assessments are suboptimal. These data suggest that optimizing and standardizing routine bedside nursing neurologic assessments may be warranted.
Hepatotoxicity During Isoniazid Preventive Therapy and Antiretroviral Therapy in People Living With HIV With Severe Immunosuppression: A Secondary Analysis of a Multi-Country Open-Label Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial
Authors: Ngongondo McNeil , Miyahara Sachiko , Hughes Michael D. , Sun Xin , Bisson Gregory P. , Gupta Amita , Kumwenda Johnstone , Lavenberg Jeffrey A. , Torres Thiago Silva , Nyirenda Mulinda , Kidonge Katende Kenneth , Hosseinipour Mina C. ,   for the AIDS Clinical Trials Group A5274 (REMEMBER) Study Team
Published: February 2018

Background:

Hepatotoxicity associated with isoniazid preventive therapy (IPT) and antiretroviral therapy (ART) has not been well studied in severely immunosuppressed people with HIV. Our objective was to determine risk factors for hepatotoxicity in severely immunosuppressed individuals taking IPT and ART.

Setting:

Multicenter study in resource-limited settings with high burden of tuberculosis.

Methods:

We conducted a secondary analysis of data from 1 randomized arm of the REMEMBER trial. The analysis includes participants with pre-ART CD4 cell counts of <50 cells/μL receiving IPT and ART for 24 weeks. Hepatotoxicity was defined as elevated aspartate aminotransferase (AST) or alanine aminotransferase (ALT) >5 × upper limit of normal or symptomatic hepatitis during IPT and ART. Logistic regression was used to identify baseline risk factors for hepatotoxicity. Time to occurrence of hepatotoxicity was estimated by the Kaplan–Meier method.

Results:

Among 426 participants (53% male, median age 35 years, median CD4 count 19 cells/µL), 31 developed hepatotoxicity (7.3%). Raised pretreatment AST/ALT (odds ratio [OR] 3.6, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.7 to 7.7) and hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) seropositivity at baseline (OR 4.7, 95% CI: 1.7 to 12.9) were significantly associated with an increased risk of developing hepatotoxicity. Participants with both raised AST/ALT and positive HBsAg had a higher risk (OR 19.9, 95% CI: 5.3 to 74.3) and earlier onset of hepatotoxicity than participants who did not have these conditions at baseline.

Conclusions:

The incidence of hepatotoxicity during IPT and ART was high. Severely immunosuppressed individuals with raised pretreatment AST/ALT or HBsAg seropositivity need closer monitoring for hepatotoxicity.
System for in situ observation of three-dimensional structural changes in polymer films during uniaxial deformation. Corrigendum
Authors: Miyazaki Tsukasa , Shimokita Keisuke , Ogawa Hiroki , Yamamoto Katsuhiro
Published: February 2018

Ambiguities in the article by Miyazaki, Shimokita, Ogawa & Yamamoto [J. Appl. Cryst. (2015), 48, 1016–1022] are clarified.
GAPD: a GPU-accelerated atom-based polychromatic diffraction simulation code
Authors: E J. C. , Wang L. , Chen S. , Zhang Y. Y. , Luo S. N.
Published: February 2018

GAPD, a graphics-processing-unit (GPU)-accelerated atom-based polychromatic diffraction simulation code for direct, kinematics-based, simulations of X-ray/electron diffraction of large-scale atomic systems with mono-/polychromatic beams and arbitrary plane detector geometries, is presented. This code implements GPU parallel computationviaboth real- and reciprocal-space decompositions. WithGAPD, direct simulations are performed of the reciprocal lattice node of ultralarge systems (∼5 billion atoms) and diffraction patterns of single-crystal and polycrystalline configurations with mono- and polychromatic X-ray beams (including synchrotron undulator sources), and validation, benchmark and application cases are presented.
Making extinction calculable
Authors: Cuckston Thomas
Published: February 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the role of the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List of Threatened Species in achieving biodiversity conservation and preventing the extinction of species. The Red List is a calculative device that classifies species in terms of their exposure to the risk of extinction.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper draws on theorising in the Social Studies of Finance literature to analyse the Red List in terms of how it frames a space of calculability for species extinction. The analysis then traces the ways that this framing has overflowed, creating conditions for calculative innovations, such that assemblages of humans and calculative devices (i.e. agencements) are constructed with collective capabilities to act to conserve biodiversity and prevent species extinctions.

Findings

This paper has traced three ways that the Red List frame has overflowed, leading to calculative innovations and the construction of new agencements. The overflow of relations between the quality of “extinction risk”, produced by the Red List, and other qualities, such as location, has created opportunities for conservationists to develop agencements capable of formulating conservation strategies. The overflow of relations between the identity of the “threatened species”, produced by the Red List, and other features of evaluated species, has created opportunities for conservationists to develop agencements capable of impelling participation in conservation efforts. The overflow of ecological relations between species, discarded by the Red List’s hierarchical metrology of extinction risk classifications, has created opportunities for conservationists to develop agencements capable of confronting society with the reality of an extinction crisis.

Originality/value

The paper contributes to the accounting for biodiversity literature by addressing its fundamental challenge: explaining how accounting can create conditions within society in which biodiversity conservation is made possible.
Methodologies for process harmonization in the post-merger integration phase
Authors: Schönreiter Irene Maria
Published: February 2018

Purpose

Post-merger integration (PMI) has received much attention in recent years due to an increasing number of merger and acquisitions (M&As). Process harmonization plays an important role during the PMI. The purpose of this paper is to find out if there is any methodology available for process harmonization in the PMI phase. From a PMI/M&A perspective, business process management (BPM)/quality management perspective and change management perspective, the existing literature is analyzed.

Design/methodology/approach

A structured literature review covering a wide field of publications in the interface of BPM, quality management and PMI-related publications is used to identify process harmonization methodologies after M&A and disclosing interrogations for future research.

Findings

There is hardly any connection found between PMI and business process harmonization in literature. While information technology/systems integration in PMI is researched in various publications, a special methodology or integration approach tailored for business processes and management systems is not available despite numerous literatures on PMI, BPM, quality management and change management. Nonetheless, these articles contain relevant recommendations as a part of the big picture. So here lies the optimal starting point for future research.

Research limitations/implications

Although this literature review has regarded publications of numerous databases, limitations might follow the selective citation due to thousands of articles in the field of M&A, PMI, BPM and quality management. Further, process harmonization and standardization have been regarded in largely as synonyms.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, no systematic literature review in this interface has been previously published.
Open innovation and intellectual property strategies
Authors: Toma Antonio , Secundo Giustina , Passiante Giuseppina
Published: February 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to highlight the main Intellectual Property (IP) protection strategies adopted in the R&D phases of a company operating in the bio-pharmaceutical industry, according to an open innovation (OI) approach.

Design/methodology/approach

In order to assess how R&D intensive firms adopt IP strategies during OI practices, this research uses a single case-study design. The case has been studied over an extended period of time (from 2008 to 2015), triangulating data and information by means of multiple interviews with different key informants and projects documents. The novelty of the research justifies the use of a single case study.

Findings

The study reveals how a mix of formal and informal tools for IP protection are used, with a final attempt to maintain control over different technological solutions during their validation process and profiting from stable R&D collaborations with research partners.

Research limitations/implications

Limitations of the study relate to the single case study methodology as well as to some peculiarities of the analyzed company and of the Bio-Pharmaceutical industry.

Practical implications

Research managers could find some food for thought in the adoption of OI approaches for reducing costs and risks associated with technological uncertainty, with particular attention to the strategic role of IP rights.

Originality/value

Despite knowledge protection being widely recognized to be a critical issue for implementing OI approaches, how IP strategies should be used in the different phases of R&D is still debatable. Moreover, few empirical studies relate to the adoption of optimal combinations of IP tools in relation to the different R&D phases in such technology intensive industries as the bio-pharmaceutical industry.
European social models in times of crisis: Sapir’s contribution reviewed
Authors: Lafuente-Lechuga Matilde , Faura-Martínez Úrsula , García-Luque Olga
Published: February 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to show evidence of the divergence of welfare outcomes in the European Union (EU) during the economic crisis, which made the European social model fail, and the convergence among European countries halt. This study reviews Sapir’s model for classifying European welfare state systems and adapts it to the new reality, taking into account Europe 2020 targets on poverty reduction and employment growth.

Design/methodology/approach

Two variables are used in the application of Sapir’s graphical analysis to European social models: the employment rate as efficiency indicator, and the people At Risk Of Poverty and/or Exclusion rate as equity indicator. Both efficiency and equity are present in Europe 2020 targets. In addition, a cluster analysis is applied.

Findings

The division of EU member states into four geopolitical social models has proved to be dynamic, changing in the period under analysis. As a consequence of the economic crisis and the fiscal consolidation, efficiency and equity levels across the EU are polarised between the Mediterranean and the Nordic models.

Originality/value

This paper shows the effects of the economic crisis in the EU, analysing the evolution between 2008 and 2014, and incorporating Eastern Europe new member states into the analysis.
Investigation of tribological and mechanical properties of aluminium boron carbide composites using response surface methodology and desirability analysis
Authors: Canute X. , Majumder M.C.
Published: February 2018

Purpose

Aluminium metal matrix composites are used in automotive and aerospace industries because of their high performance and weight reduction benefits. The current investigation aims to focus on the development of the stir cast aluminium-boron carbide composites with enhanced mechanical and tribological properties.

Design/methodology/approach

The aluminium-boron carbide composites are produced by stir casting process. Aluminium alloy A356 is chosen as the matrix material and three sets of composites are produced with different weight fractions of boron carbide particles. Higher particle size (63 µm) of boron carbide is chosen as the reinforcement material. Aluminium-boron carbide composites are tested for mechanical and tribological properties. The effect of process parameters like load, speed and percentage of reinforcement on the wear rate are studied using the pin-on-disc method. The interaction of the process parameters with the wear rate is analysed by DesignExpert software using RSM methodology and desirability analysis. The coded levels for parameters for independent variables used in the experimental design are arranged according to the central composite design. The worn surface of the pin is examined using a scanning electron microscope. The phases and reaction products of the composites are identified by X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis.

Findings

Aluminium-boron carbide composites reveal better mechanical properties compared to monolithic aluminium alloys. Mechanical properties improved with the addition of strontium-based master alloy Al10Sr. The ultimate tensile strength, hardness and compressive strength increase with an increase in the reinforcement content. The wettability of the boron carbide particles in the matrix improved with the addition of potassium flurotitanate to the melt. Uniform dispersion of particles into the alloy during melting is facilitated by the addition of magnesium. Wear resistance is optimal at 8 per cent of boron carbide with a load 20 N and sliding speed of 348 RPM. The wear rate is optimized by the numerical optimization method using desirability analysis. The amount of wear is less in Al-B4C composites when compared to unreinforced aluminium alloy. The wear rate increases with an increase in load and decreases with the sliding speed. The wear resistance increases with an increase in the weight fraction of the boron carbide particles.

Practical implications

The produced Al-B4C composites can retain properties at high temperature. It is used in nuclear and automotive products owing its high specific strength and stiffness. The main applications are neutron absorbers, armour plates, high-performance bicycles, brake pads, sand blasting nozzles and pump seals.

Originality/value

Al/B4C composites have good potential in the development of wear-resistant products.
Effect of wear parameters on dry abrasive wear of RZ5-TiC in situ composite
Authors: Mehra Deepak , Mahapatra Manas Mohan , Harsha Suraj Prakash
Published: February 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to increase the wear resistance of Mg alloy by adding hard ceramic particles to it. The inclusion of hard ceramic particles further strengthen the Mg alloy, resulting in higher wear resistance. Mg alloys containing Zn, rare earth and Zr exhibit high specific strength and excellent creep resistance, making them suitable for aerospace components such as aircraft gearboxes and generator housings.

Design/methodology/approach

In the present study, composites have been produced in situ by using RZ5 mg alloy as matrix and TiC as reinforcement by self-propagating high-temperature synthesis technique. The abrasive wear behavior of RZ5 Mg alloy matrix reinforced with TiC particulates has also been examined. The pin-on-disc apparatus has been used for the tests. The abrasive paper is used as a counter body, and the results are obtained by changing sliding distance and applied load.

Findings

A notable enhancement in the wear resistance and mechanical properties of tested composite has been observed as compared to the RZ5 Mg alloy as a matrix. There is a uniform increment in the change in weight loss of RZ5-TiC composite with increasing sliding distance and applied load, but it decreases with increasing TiC content. The coefficient of friction (µ) also decreases uniformly with an increase in the reinforcement of TiC, but it decreases with an increase in applied load and sliding distance. The investigation of the worn composite, which determines dominant wear mechanisms as abrasion and plowing grooves on tested samples, has been done using field emission scanning electron microscopy.

Originality/value

The current manuscript provides a detailed abrasive wear analysis of RZ5-TiC composite by using different wear parameters. Specifically, extensive experimental data have been provided for RZ5-TiC composite. The effects of parameters such as applied load, sliding distance and Wt.% of TiC on the weight loss and coefficient of friction of the composites have been analyzed and discussed thoroughly.
E-inclusion or digital divide: an integrated model of digital inequality
Authors: Yu Biyang , Ndumu Ana , Mon Lorri M. , Fan Zhenjia
Published: February 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to improve understanding of the societal problem of the deepening digital divide by establishing and testing an integrated conceptual framework for digital divide research.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors established the integrated conceptual framework after synthesizing the literature, and then tested the framework by conducting a secondary analysis of a 2014-2015 data set comprised of 398 survey responses and nine interviews with Chinese migrant workers.

Findings

The results showed that Chinese migrant workers were partially e-included in the digital society. However, they encountered material, cognitive, motivational, and social access limitations due to the lack of financial, material, educational, psychological, interpersonal, and cognitive resources, which caused them to experience a digital divide. Findings support the use of the integrative model as a potential analytical framework to understand and address digital inequalities.

Originality/value

This study first proposed an integrative framework to understand the measurements and causes of the digital divide and then empirically tested its feasibility.
CEO power, corporate risk taking and role of large shareholders
Authors: Haider Junaid , Fang Hong-Xing
Published: February 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate whether a powerful chief executive officer (CEO) impacts corporate risk taking in the distinctive institutional and market setting of China? Second, in case such relationship exists, the paper further aims to investigate whether the presence of large shareholders affects it, and finally, whether this effect of large shareholders varies in state-owned enterprises (SOEs) and non-state-owned enterprises (NSOEs).

Design/methodology/approach

The authors have used a sample of 1,502 Chinese firms listed on Shanghai and Shenzhen stock exchanges. Sample period is 2008-2013. Besides conventional fixed-effect regression, dynamic panel data estimation (generalized method of moments) is applied to address the potential endogeneity.

Findings

The results show that CEO power is negatively related with corporate risk taking in two risk proxies, i.e. total risk and idiosyncratic risk. Second, the presence of large shareholders significantly affects this relationship, but does not change the primary negative relationship between CEO power and corporate risk taking. Finally, the results show that the relationship between CEO power and corporate risk taking is different in SOEs and NSOEs. The findings of this paper contend the organizational and behavioral theory viewpoint that individual decisions are more extreme.

Practical implications

This study provides useful implication for policymakers and suggests that while evaluating CEO’s performance, institutional and market settings should be considered.

Originality/value

This study provides new insights on the impact of CEO power on corporate risk taking under the two distinctive features in a developing country, i.e. presence of large shareholders and state-owned enterprises.
Economic policy uncertainty and stock market liquidity
Authors: Debata Byomakesh , Mahakud Jitendra
Published: February 2018

Purpose

This study aims to examine the relationship between economic policy uncertainty and stock market liquidity in an order-driven emerging stock market.

Design/methodology/approach

Empirical estimates are based on vector autoregressive Granger-causality tests, impulse response functions and variance decomposition analysis.

Findings

The empirical findings suggest that economic policy uncertainty moderately influences stock market liquidity during normal market conditions. However, the role of economic policy uncertainty for determining stock market liquidity is significant in times of financial crises. The authors have also observed a significant portion of variation in stock market liquidity that is attributed to investor sentiments during financial crises.

Originality/value

This study is original in nature and provides evidence to consider economic policy uncertainty as a possible source of commonality in liquidity in the context of an emerging market.
Training for the coaching leader: how organizations can support managers
Authors: Milner Julia , McCarthy Grace , Milner Trenton
Published: February 2018

Purpose

The demand for leaders to coach their employees is increasing as the benefits become more and more evident. However, little is known about the training managers have received in coaching or what support is available/required from their organizations. The paper aims to discuss this issue.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper encompassed a survey of 580 managers in Australian organizations with more than 200 employees. The authors used qualitative thematic analysis to examine the extensive free text answers.

Findings

The findings indicated that while some managers had received some form of training in coaching (30-40 percent, depending on training type), 40 percent of them expressed a desire for introductory and/or further training. The findings suggest that training should be tailored to the managerial context instead of a generic coaching training, with a more structured and coordinated approach to organizational coaching required.

Practical implications

Organizations could benefit from supporting managers with the following strategies: Why – Organizations need to explain clearly why a coaching leadership style is beneficial. How – Training can come in many forms from workshops to “on-the-job” learning. When – Managers want more insights into when and when not to use a coaching style. What – it should not be assumed that all leaders possess coaching skills but rather those coaching skills need to be acquired and developed.

Originality/value

This paper offers insight into current training and support structures for “leadership coaching”, and suggests strategies to help managers to implement coaching as a leadership skillset.