bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of revenue efficiency of Indian scheduled commercial banks
Authors: Bhatia Aparna , Mahendru Megha
Published: October 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to endeavour to assess revenue efficiency (RE) scores of Scheduled Commercial Banks operating in India. Differences in RE are studied across varying ownership as well. The study also determines the nature of return to scale of Indian SCBs as whole as well as classified across ownership. Number of banks operating as leaders and laggards has also been calculated.

Design/methodology/approach

RE of banks is calculated by using the non-parametric approach, namely, data envelopment analysis (DEA). Further, the differences in the efficiency scores are examined by applying Panel Tobit Regression.

Findings

The results of DEA suggest that none of the banks has ever achieved full RE score of 1 in any of the years under study. An inconsistent pattern of RE is seen. Private sector banks have performed better than their counterparts in public and foreign sector. Maximum number of banks operating on decreasing return to scale are from public sector, and the highest number of banks operating on constant return to scale belong to Foreign Sector. More number of banks operates as laggards in the Indian financial system. Thus, there still exists room for improvement for banks in all sectors.

Originality/value

With specific reference to India, less empirical work has been carried out with respect to RE. As only two studies so far from the literature are available that consider RE exclusively, namely, Ram Mohan and Ray (2004) and Bhatia and Mahendru (2015). However, Ram Mohan and Ray (2004) considered only the reformatory phase, whereas Bhatia and Mahendru (2015) analyzed the performance for specific points of time only. None of the study has been able to give any concrete findings according to sector-wise performance of banks in terms of RE parameters.
The “Chancellor’s foot” and the contrivance of deportability in the UK: matters arising
Authors: Ikegwuruka Cosmas
Published: October 2018

Purpose

It has been argued that the UK has the reputation of operating a complex set of immigration laws to the extent that the constantly changing laws and regulations lead much to confusion and lack of accountability. It has further been argued that the ever-increasing and shifting pattern of deportation laws (some of which are retroactive) violates the basic principles of human rights norms. This paper aims to raise the query as to whether legislation associated with deportation is constantly enacted and revised to achieve deportation without regard to the remit of the doctrine of legitimate expectation encapsulated under the principle of legal certainty.

Design/methodology/approach

This research applies the doctrinal research methodology in addition to somewhat reliance on anecdotal evidence. Doctrinal research is library-based and reliance will be placed on primary and secondary materials such as legislations, case laws, soft laws on the one hand and textbooks, journals, articles, legal encyclopaedia, databases and many valuable websites on the other hand.

Findings

While it is accepted that the State enjoys the discretion or prerogative to deport migrants that violate the State’s immigration laws, the author posits that the issue of constant changes breed uncertainty, which in turn breeds unpredictability leading to unaccountability. Drawing on the UK’s state practice, the author will submit that contrivance of deportability and/or removability is adumbrated by the legal production of migrant irregularity exemplified by inconsistent and uncertain laws that vary like the “Chancellor’s foot”. In addition, the research found that crimmigration heightened the velocity of deportation by expanding deportability grounds by way of triggering broader, harsher and more frequent criminal consequences leading to conviction, thereby creating a suitable avenue for deportation and reducing the scope for challenging deportation decisions.

Originality/value

The research is an original piece of work that contributes to scholarship and knowledge in the area of migration as it concerns international human rights law given that wider matters within the boundaries of immigration and nationality laws do have effect on individual possession of rights to be in the UK, by way of lawful presence or as a matter of discretion.
The largest financial groups from emerging economies
Authors: Outreville J. Francois
Published: October 2018

Purpose

Numerous articles contain recommendations as to how emerging countries can attract foreign direct investment on terms that are beneficial to both the investing firm and the host society but very few explore the conditions for firms from emerging countries to invest abroad. The purpose of this paper is twofold: the first is the documentation of the preferred locations of foreign affiliates for the largest financial groups headquartered in emerging countries; and, second, is to identify some of the determinants associated with the location-specific advantages of these host countries.

Design/methodology/approach

The analysis of the internationalization process of these groups is based on a list of top financial groups ranked by total assets. In the empirical section, the factors that explain the choice of these locations by multinational firms are categorized as resources seeking, market seeking, efficiency-seeking variables and cultural variables.

Findings

There is empirical evidence that institutions prefer to invest in foreign locations that minimize some dimensions of the culture. Other factors like the role of efficiency variables, i.e. trade efficiency, political risk and government effectiveness, in host countries also have a strong impact on the determinants of the internationalization process.

Originality/value

The paper puts forward a framework for analyzing determinants of foreign direct investment of multinational financial groups from emerging economies.
The effect of content marketing on sponsorship favorability
Authors: Human Gert , Hirschfelder Benedikt , Nel Jacques
Published: October 2018

Purpose

The benefits and problems associated with firm-generated content (FGC) as a key driver of sponsorship effectiveness demand more research attention. Accordingly, the purpose of this paper is to consider the effect of content marketing on sponsorship-response favorability in the South African energy drink market.

Design/methodology/approach

It is theorized that in an FGC environment, sponsor factors, sponsorship factors and event factors drive sponsorship favorability. This notion is tested using a structural equations model among 18- to 35-year-olds.

Findings

The results show acceptable model fit and confirm the usefulness of understanding the effects of content marketing on sponsorship favorability. The authors also offer directions for future research.

Practical implications

The results suggest that FGC which is well-designed, packaged and presented can enhance the views of individuals regarding a sponsor – even if the brand operates in a background position as opposed to the conventional foreground position common in promotional material.

Originality/value

The current study considers content marketing in contexts that have largely been avoided so far, or have only featured on a very limited scale in the literature. This study was conducted in an emerging market, business-to-consumer and sponsorship context for the application of a content marketing strategy.
Impact of regulatory announcements on systemic risk in the Indian telecom sector
Authors: Yalla Sushma Priyadarsini , Bhattacharyya Som Sekhar , Jain Karuna
Published: October 2018

Purpose

Post 1991, given the advent of liberalization and economic reforms, the Indian telecom sector witnessed a remarkable growth in terms of subscriber base and reduced competitive tariff among the service providers. The purpose of this paper is to estimate the impact of regulatory announcements on systemic risk among the Indian telecom firms.

Design/methodology/approach

This study employed a two-step methodology to measure the impact of regulatory announcements on systemic risk. In the first step, CAPM along with the Kalman filter was used to estimate the daily β (systemic risk). In the second step, event study methodology was used to assess the impact of regulatory announcements on daily β derived from the first step.

Findings

The results of this study indicate that regulatory announcements did impact systemic risk among telecom firms. The study also found that regulatory announcements either increased or decreased systemic risk, depending upon the type of regulatory announcements. Further, this study estimated the market-perceived regulatory risk premiums for individual telecom firms.

Research limitations/implications

The regulatory risk premium was either positive or negative, depending upon the different types of regulatory announcements for the telecom sector firms. Thus, this study contributes to the theory of literature by testing the buffering hypothesis in the context of Indian telecom firms.

Practical implications

The study findings will be useful for investors and policy-makers to estimate the regulatory risk premium as and when there is an anticipated regulatory announcement in the Indian telecom sector.

Originality/value

This is one of the first research studies in exploring regulatory risk among the Indian telecom firms. The research findings indicate that regulatory risk does exist in the telecom firms of India.
Industry characteristics and earnings management: a study of Malaysian industries
Authors: Wasiuzzaman Shaista
Published: October 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to detect variations in earnings management activity across industries and the possible influence of various industry variables on these variations.

Design/methodology/approach

A total sample of 4,249 firm-year observations from 13 different industries spanning a total of eight years (from 2005 to 2012) is used for this purpose. The ordinary least squares regression technique is used to test the influence of various industry variables on earnings management activity.

Findings

The findings indicate the presence of earnings management practices in Malaysian industries. Among industry-level variables, capital intensity, volatility and profitability are found to influence aggregate earnings management. Further analysis shows that volatility only influences the smoothing measure while profitability influences the discretionary measure. Interestingly, industry competitiveness and leverage are not able to explain the variations in earnings management across industries.

Originality/value

To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study which documents the role of various industry characteristics in influencing earnings management activity. It highlights the importance of considering industry-level variables in a study on earnings management and, hence, adds to the growing literature on earnings management.
Institutional framework and governance in Latin America
Authors: Cárdenas Gilberto , García Sofía , Salas Alvaro
Published: October 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide an analysis of the Institutional Framework and Governance in Latin America, which aims at detecting similarities or differences among the countries of the region.

Design/methodology/approach

The objective of the research will be achieved through the application of multivariate factor analysis and cluster analysis techniques.

Findings

The paper shows the importance of the institutional framework and governance for the countries of Latin America and demonstrates the heterogeneity in the areas of institutions and governance in the region. The paper also confirms the presence of differentiated groups of countries that can and should collaborate with each other to enhance the socio-economic development of the region in a globalized context.

Research limitations/implications

Due to the limited Latin America countries example in this paper, the authors consider for future studies would be to enlarge the number of countries and to implement same study to Asian countries.

Practical implications

The main contribution of this study in practice is that by classifying countries into clusters with similarities and differences, this study allows politicians and the institutional leaders to redesign current and/or formulate new policies aimed at institutional quality and good governance. In addition, results of the study should be taken into account by institutions such as the International Monetary Fund or the World Bank when deciding on multilateral support or when taking financing decisions as the type of support and the conditions applied should be differentiated according to the cluster in question. Also, in the context of academic research, the clusters will allow comparative studies that can assess the impact of the institutional framework and other variables on indicators such as direct foreign investment, economic growth or sociological ones, such as poverty, the distribution of income, etc.

Originality/value

This paper provides the analysis of the Institutional Framework and Governance in Latin America under the multivariate analysis approach.
Reviewing emerging markets: context, concepts and future research
Authors: Nielsen Ulrik B. , Hannibal Martin , Larsen Nathalie N.
Published: October 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide a systematic review of the substantial and growing body of emerging market (EM) research. Through assessing the literature an organizing framework is formed to support a nuanced basis for future research and management decisions in EMs.

Design/methodology/approach

Following guidelines of seminal authors, the authors conduct a systematic review involving both leading field-specific and top-tier international business journals.

Findings

The empirical context of the literature is outlined showing dominance of studies involving China and India. Seminal contributions are identified based on cross-references in the EM field and citations in international business literature in general. The definitional elements of the most dominant definitions are compiled into an organizing framework.

Research limitations/implications

Researchers need to acknowledge the distinct contextual setting of specific regions and countries labeled as EMs. This entails considerations into the capacity of current frameworks to lend insights not just on EM contexts but the particular EM context in focus.

Practical implications

The findings suggest a more nuanced approach to managing activities in EM contexts. The proposed framework encloses the EM category on its distinct dimensions. Each provides a unique basis for managerial decision-making on specified EM activities.

Originality/value

This paper provides the first systematic review of the ever-growing body of EM research literature to map and assess the existing intellectual territory. Through this, the authors contribute to the development of the existing body of knowledge and form a solid basis for future research.
The moderating role of social network on the relationship between innovative capability and performance in the hotel industry
Authors: Agyapong Ahmed , Mensah Henry Kofi , Ayuuni Anastasia Mma
Published: October 2018

Purpose

A rise in international travel leads to increased competitiveness in the hotel industry. The purpose of this paper is to examine the moderating effect of social networking relationships on the association between innovative capability (IC) and firm performance in Ghana’s hotel industry.

Design/methodology/approach

Data are collected from managers of 200 registered hotels in the northern region of Ghana. Data were collected by means of a structured questionnaire, with variables measured on a seven-point Likert scale.

Findings

The findings reveal a mixture of confirmation for the relationships hypothesized in this study. IC influences the financial as well as the operational performance of hotels and guesthouses in Ghana. Social network relationships have a slight tendency to positively impact on business performance. Network relationships with the community leaders enable hotels to gain knowledge from local communities to build its IC. Social networking with political leaders does not moderate the relationship between IC and performance.

Originality/value

The findings provide empirical support for the viability and performance benefits of developing IC, so as to inform management interventions. It is focused on Sub-Saharan Africa specifically, where managers in the hospitality industry need to find new approaches to develop IC in order to remain competitive. The potential contribution of this study lies in the moderating role that IC plays in the relationship between different types of social networking relationship and performance of hotels.
Determinants of financing of outward foreign direct investment by Indian MNEs
Authors: Tripathi Vanita , Thukral Sonal
Published: October 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the determinants of financing the outward foreign direct investment (OFDI) by building a three-level framework residing on host country market imperfections, ownership advantages of parent firm investing abroad and the industry to which it belongs.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper used random effects probit model.

Findings

Parent debt financing of OFDI by Indian parent firms is driven by the credit market development of the host country, the uniqueness of the industry to which parent firm belongs and systematic risk. Debt-oriented firms are found to invest more via parent debt.

Research limitations/implications

The limitations of this study are as follows: –first, time period before 2008 could not be considered due to unavailability of data in the public domain. Second, the characteristics of foreign affiliates that spread across diverse host countries have not been factored in. Third, in the case of parent’s industry-level determinants, financial sector has not been included because the financing and risk-taking strategy of this sector are quite different from other sectors. Finally, the present study assumes financing decision to be centralized in the multinational system at the parent firm.

Practical implications

The practical implications of this study are as follows: first, industry innovativeness must be taken as a guide by the Indian MNEs to finance their OFDI and they must provide equity. Second, the study suggests that Indian MNEs rely on their existing capital structure while financing their OFDI. Third, parent firms are found to follow the industry norms. Fourth, parent firms must finance their OFDI by considering the development of credit market in the host country. Fifth, host government must focus on improving the credit market development of their economy and not just reducing tax rates to attract FDI into their economy.

Originality/value

Empirically examining internal flows in a multinational system has limited the research in the area of financing the OFDI. The paper is one of the first attempts to formally develop a model of factors that shape financing of OFDI in case of one such emerging market – India.
Factors hindering economic development: evidence from the MENA countries
Authors: Awdeh Ali , Hamadi Hassan
Published: October 2018

Purpose

Despite the possession of considerable natural, financial and human resources, the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region suffers low economic growth rates, high unemployment rates, high poverty rates and high illiteracy rates. The purpose of this paper is to find out the factors that hinder the development of economic activities in this region.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses co-integration analysis and vector error correction model on a sample of 18 MENA countries, covering the period 2002–2016. It exploits gross domestic product (GDP) as a dependent variable, and public debt, trade balance, natural resources rents, importation of high technology, labour participation rate, military spending, population size, political instability and corruption as independent variables.

Findings

The paper finds that public borrowing, trade deficit, military expenditures, the low level of technological innovation, population, political turbulences and corruption, all hinder GDP in the long-run. Additionally, public debt, military spending and political instability obstruct GDP in the short run. The results also suggest the existence of Dutch diseases in both the short- and the long-run. On the other hand, labour market conditions do not seem to have any effect on the economic performance of the MENA countries.

Originality/value

In addition of examining an understudied sample of countries, this paper – unlike other studies on the MENA region that look at factors that boost economic growth – exploits factors that have possible negative impact on the economic situation of the region.
Outsourcing relationship management: accounting in the decision mix
Authors: Ahmed Mirghani Nimir
Published: October 2018

Purpose

The paper aims to examine the role of management accounting and accounting information in decisions to outsource and manage outsourcing relationships.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper uses a case study method. Data are collected through semi-structured interviews and informal discussions with executives of the participating companies. Official documents and secondary materials were analysed.

Findings

The findings of these cases present evidence of some roles given to accounting information and varying tasks assumed by accountants and finance staff in the outsourcing projects undertaken. These roles and tasks range from financial evaluation of new outsourcing proposals and alternatives, consultation and price negotiations in the planning and feasibility stages to the management of outsourcing relationships including monitoring, cost analysis, performance measurement, internal audit, design and implementation of risk-reward payment schemes. Managing the outsourced functions in one case involved in the use of informal control mechanisms such as trust, knowledge sharing, mutual understanding and cooperation between partners.

Practical implications

The paper highlights the role of management accounting and information in outsourcing relationship management and evaluation. The case findings provide the opportunity for management practitioners to understand the strategic role of management accountants in the management of inter-firm relationships.

Originality/value

The case study presents new empirical evidence of the role of management accounting and accounting information in the management control of outsourcing relationships.
Trolls in the cafeteria: managing political speech in the workplace
Authors: Hirsch Peter Buell
Published: October 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to highlight the unique challenges posed to corporations by the explosion of political speech in the workplace and proposes best practices for handling them. The polarization of opinion taking place across many countries and the use of social media to propagate and debate these opinions has created huge new pressures for employers dealing with political speech in the workplace. Regulating political discussion in a work setting while preserving freedom of speech requires employers to walk a fine line, especially when that speech is critical of corporate policy. Enlightened consistency, clarity and common sense are key.

Design/methodology/approach

The author uses a variety of recent controversies on the subject of political speech in the workplace in different countries to suggest some rules for managing this increasingly contentious topic.

Findings

A review of real-world cases suggests that political speech in the workplace will always be messy, but employers can mitigate the damage that can be done by enlightened consistency and, above all, clarity about what is permissible.

Research limitations/implications

By definition, the sample of incidents reviewed is limited, and the conclusions drawn are the subjective views of the author.

Practical implications

By following the principles proposed, employers should be able to regulate political speech in the workplace in ways that preserve individual freedoms without jeopardizing the enterprise.

Social implications

In a world in which private and public personas are no longer separate, having sensible and effective rules about political speech in the workplace should lead to reduced tensions and a greater feeling of empowerment for people with strongly held beliefs.

Originality/value

While the subject of political speech in the workplace has received considerable attention, the author is not aware of any treatment that proposes new principles for employers in handling such speech.
A novel eco-friendly vapor phase corrosion inhibitor of mild steel
Authors: Vorobyova Viktoria , Skiba Margarita , Chygyrynets’ Olena
Published: October 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate the efficacy of grape pomace extract (GPE) as an eco-friendly vapor phase green inhibitor for corrosion of steel and assess the effect of the major compounds of extract on the inhibition efficiency.

Design/methodology/approach

The present study was carried out to identify the components present in the 2-propanol GPE by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis. Gravimetric, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, potentiodynamic polarization, scanning electron microscopy and FTIR techniques were used to study the corrosion inhibitive.

Findings

GPE has inhibited mild steel corrosion in conditions of periodic condensation of moisture. The gravimetric measurement indicates that inhibition efficiency shows direct proportional relation with concentration of inhibitor. The GPE and main components acted as a mixed-type inhibitor with predominant cathodic effectiveness. Research limitations/implications. Because of the presence of large number of compounds in the extract, it becomes difficult to understand the most active compound responsible for inhibition. However, from gas chromatography, mass spectrometry and quantum data, the assumption has been made that the major compound of GPE is responsible for the inhibition activity.

Practical implications

The extract can be used in the temporary corrosion protection and is designed to prevent the corrosion of metal surfaces of equipment during transportation and storage.

Originality/value

GPE can be used as a potential source of ecofriendly corrosion inhibitor for steel corrosion.
Environment‐driven changes of mRNA and protein levels in Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Erdmann Jelena , Preusse Matthias , Khaledi Ariane , Pich Andreas , Häussler Susanne
Published: October 2018

Systems biology approaches address the challenge of translating sequence information into function. In this study, we described the Pseudomonas aeruginosa PA14 proteomic landscape and quantified environment‐driven changes in protein levels by the use of LC–MS techniques. Previously recorded mRNA data allowed a comparison of RNA to protein ratios for each individual gene and, thus, to explore the relationship between an mRNA being differentially expressed between environmental conditions and the mRNA‐protein correlation for that gene. We developed a Random Forest‐based predictor for protein levels and found that the mRNA to protein correlation was higher for genes/proteins that undergo dynamic changes. One example of a discrepancy between protein and predicted protein levels was observed for a phage‐related gene cluster, which was translated into low protein levels under standard growth conditions. However, under SOS‐inducing conditions more protein was produced and the prediction of protein levels based on mRNA abundancy became more accurate. In conclusion, our systems biology approach sheds light on complex mRNA to protein level relationships and uncovered condition‐dependent post‐transcriptional regulatory events.
Transition strategies and recommendations: perspectives of parents of young adults with disabilities
Authors: Francis Grace L. , Stride Ashley , Reed Sascha
Published: October 2018

Effective transition planning is critical for young adults with disabilities to experience positive post‐school outcomes, including employment, living in a place of their choice and engaging in social activities. However, these outcomes are often marred by barriers such as poorly constructed transition plans, low expectations and a lack of available services. While researchers have investigated transition strategies, there remains uncertainty in the field regarding the effectiveness of strategies used in high school and college. This study investigated the perspectives of parents of young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities as they supported their young adults in transitioning from high school and college. This study reports findings from semi‐structured interviews conducted with 26 parents of young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities who graduated from a post‐secondary education programme in the US. Participants described seven primary strategies: starting earlier; maintaining high expectations; permitting choice and risk; recognising family interdependence and involvement; prioritising parent skill development and support; maximising technology; and promoting inclusion. Study findings provide numerous practical strategies that participants employed or believed to be beneficial during transition. Implications for practice and research are discussed.
Gathering the views of children and young people with ASD: a systematic literature review
Authors: Tyrrell Beverley , Woods Kevin
Published: October 2018

Responding to children’s expressed needs and preferences can improve their self‐esteem and motivation for learning. However, some groups of children and young people may find it more difficult to express their needs and preferences. This article reviews the research evidence on methods used to gather the views of children with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD), who may have particular difficulties with social communication. From research databases, 20 relevant studies were identified. Semi‐structured interview was a frequently used method, but may be better suited to older, or more academically able, students. The effectiveness of interview methods can be improved by offering the student choice of interview location, by reducing distractions, and by the use of visual aids. Other potentially suitable methods included: oral, written or electronic diaries; use of drawings; use of photographs taken by the student; use of focus groups; and use of individually administered survey questionnaires. More focused evaluation by future researchers of the suitability of data‐gathering methods for participants with ASD would allow broader conclusions to be drawn about which methods work best and for whom.
Plasma concentrations of etonogestrel in women using oral desogestrel before and after Roux‐en‐Y gastric bypass surgery: a pharmacokinetic study
Authors: Ginstman C , Frisk J , Carlsson B , Ärlemalm A , Hägg S , Brynhildsen J
Published: October 2018

Objective

To investigate whether Roux‐en‐Y gastric bypass (RYGB) affects oral desogestrel (etonogestrel) pharmacokinetics.

Design

Single centre, open label, phase‐2 pharmacokinetic study.

Setting

University hospital of Linköping, Sweden.

Population

Fourteen women with planned RYGB surgery were included; nine women aged 18–45 years using 75 micrograms desogestrel completed the study.

Methods

Steady‐state etonogestrel pharmacokinetic (PK) parameters were measured on three occasions for each individual (at 8 ± 6 weeks before surgery, and at 12 ± 2 and 52 ± 2 weeks after surgery). Each patient served as her own control. On each occasion, serum samples were collected during a 24‐hour period and etonogestrel concentrations were determined with ultra‐performance liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry.

Main outcome measures

Area under the plasma concentration time curve of etonogestrel (AUC0–24 hours).

Results

All women had significant postoperative weight loss. There were no significant differences in AUC0–24 hours, terminal half‐lives (t½), time to peak serum concentrations (Tmax), or apparent oral clearances of etonogestrel (CLoral) before and after gastric bypass surgery on any occasion. Peak serum concentrations (Cmax) increased after 52 ± 2 weeks compared with preoperative values (0.817 ng/ml versus 0.590 ng/ml, P = 0.024).

Conclusion

To our knowledge, this is the first study to investigate the effects on desogestrel pharmacokinetics after RYGB. This study did not reveal any clinically significant changes in etonogestrel pharmacokinetics, suggesting that oral desogestrel may be used by women after RYGB surgery. The sample size was limited, however, and therefore the results should be interpreted cautiously.

Tweetable abstract

The pharmacokinetics of oral desogestrel does not appear to change after gastric bypass surgery.
Contemporary Ottoman Views of Catherine the Great
Authors: Menchinger Ethan L.
Published: October 2018

This article is the first to examine views of the Russian empress Catherine the Great (r. 1762‐96) in the contemporary eighteenth‐century Ottoman empire. Drawing on Turkish chronicles, embassy reports and captivity narratives, it reveals extreme hostility but also a fascination with Catherine, whom the sources depict variously as a foreign interloper, usurper, regicide and trial sent by God. The article argues that this vilification stemmed not from simple misogyny but rather, in large part, from an Ottoman rejection of Catherine's legitimacy as well as from their close personal identification of her with the two empires' geopolitical struggles.
Successful treatment outcomes in pregnant patients with ANCA‐associated vasculitides: A systematic review of literature
Authors: Singh Pawan , Dhooria Aadhaar , Rathi Manish , Agarwal Ritesh , Sharma Kusum , Dhir Varun , Nada Ritambhra , Minz Ranjana , Suri Vanita , Jain Sanjay , Sharma Aman
Published: October 2018

Aim

Antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody‐associated vasculitides (AAV) are a group of small vessel vasculitis with systemic presentations and considerable morbidity and mortality. Pregnancy in these patients poses a significant therapeutic challenge. There is limited published literature regarding pregnancy in AAV.

Methods

Two cases of successful pregnancy outcomes in patients with active AAV are described. A systematic review was conducted on the lines of the PRISMA statement for conducting systemic reviews: PubMed (inception of PubMed until 30 April 2017, English language only) and EmBase databases were searched using the following terms: ‘pregnancy’ AND ‘ANCA associated vasculitis’ OR ‘granulomatosis with polyangiitis’ OR ‘eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis’ OR ‘microscopic polyangiitis’ OR ‘Churg‐Strauss syndrome’ OR ‘Wegener's granulomatosis’.

Results

One hundred and thirty‐seven pregnancies were documented in 110 patients of AAV. Vasculitis diagnosis was made before pregnancy in 69, during pregnancy in 32 and after pregnancy in 9 patients. Mean age at the time of pregnancy was 29.3 ± 5.3 years. There were 91 term pregnancies, 28 were preterm pregnancies, 15 abortions and 3 still births; 78 had normal delivery and 26 had caesarian section.

Conclusion

Successful pregnancies have been reported in AAV patients.
Leaky gut biomarkers in depression and suicidal behavior
Authors: Ohlsson L. , Gustafsson A. , Lavant E. , Suneson K. , Brundin L. , Westrin Å. , Ljunggren L. , Lindqvist D.
Published: October 2018

Objective

Inflammation is associated with major depressive disorder (MDD) and suicidal behavior. According to the ‘leaky gut hypothesis’, increased intestinal permeability may contribute to this relationship via bacterial translocation across enterocytes. We measured plasma levels of gut permeability markers, in patients with a recent suicide attempt (rSA), MDD subjects with no history of a suicide attempt (nsMDD), and healthy controls (HC), and related these markers to symptom severity and inflammation.

Method

We enrolled rSA (n = 54), nsMDD (n = 13), and HC (n = 17). Zonulin, intestinal fatty acid binding protein (I‐FABP), soluble CD14, and interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) were quantified in plasma. Montgomery–Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS) and Suicide Assessment Scale (SUAS) were used for symptom assessments.

Results

The rSA group displayed higher I‐FABP and lower zonulin levels compared with both the nsMDD and the HC groups (all P < 0.001). IL‐6 correlated positively with I‐FABP (r = 0.24, P < 0.05) and negatively with zonulin (r = −0.25, P < 0.05). In all subjects, I‐FABP levels correlated positively with MADRS (r = 0.25, P < 0.05) and SUAS scores (r = 0.38, P < 0.001), and the latter correlation was significant also in the nsMDD group (r = 0.60, P < 0.05).

Conclusion

The ‘leaky gut hypothesis’ may improve our understanding of the link between inflammation and suicidal behavior. These findings should be considered preliminary until replicated in larger cohorts.
Test uptake and hepatitis C prevalence in 5483 Danish people in drug use treatment from 1996 to 2015: a registry‐based cohort study
Authors: Øvrehus Anne , Nielsen Stine , Hansen Janne Fuglsang , Holm Dorte Kinggaard , Christensen Peer
Published: October 2018

Background and aims

The aims of this study were, in people in treatment for drug use in Funen, Denmark, to: (1) assess prevalence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) test uptake and prevalence of HCV; (2) identify predictors of test update and HCV infection; and (3) characterize changes between 1996 and 2015 in test uptake, HCV prevalence and drug use.

Design

Cohort study linking the Danish National Registry on Drug Users in Treatment to the regional hepatitis test registry and the Danish Death Certificate Registry, thus combining longitudinal data on drug use with data on HCV testing and results.

Setting and participants

People recorded as having received treatment for drug use between 1996 and 2015 (n = 5483) in Funen, Denmark. In the cohort, 24.8% were female, median age 23 years [interquartile range (IQR) = 20–32] at entry and 50% had self‐reported injecting or had received opiate substitution therapy (OST).

Measurements

The main outcomes were the test for HCV ever and latest HCV‐RNA being positive. The main predictors were for test and infection investigated; ever receiving OST, self‐reported injecting, age at entry and connection to treatment centre offering outreach hepatitis care.

Findings

HCV test uptake was 52% and prevalence of current HCV‐RNA+ was 21% in people alive at the end of follow‐up. Positive predictors of having undergone HCV testing were: receiving OST [odds ratio (OR) = 3.7; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 3.2–4.5], self‐reported injecting (OR = 2.3; 95% CI = 2.0–2.7), female gender (OR = 1.7; 95% CI = 1.4–1.9) and having been connected to centres with outreach hepatitis care (OR = 1.4; 95% CI = 1.2–1.7). In people alive, HCV‐RNA+ prevalence was 31% if ever on OST or self‐reported injecting. Among HCV‐infected people, 69% were in drug use treatment at end of follow‐up. For participants entering the cohort after 2010, only 5% reported opiates as main drug of use and 17% had experience of injecting.

Conclusion

Among Danish people in treatment for drug use from 1996 to 2015, receiving opiate substitution therapy had the largest associating to being tested for hepatitis C virus. As opiate use is declining, adapting test strategies will be necessary.
Accurate measurement of androgen after androgen esters: problems created by ex vivo esterase effects and LC‐MS/MS interference
Authors: Ceponis J. , Swerdloff R. , Leung A. , Hull L. , Bai F. , Longstreth J. , Dudley R. , Danoff T. , Wang C.
Published: October 2018

Background

Ex vivo androgen prodrug conversion by blood esterases after oral androgen ester administration may result in an overestimation of the measured blood androgens.

Objective

We investigated whether blood collection tubes with esterase inhibitors decreased the conversion of testosterone undecanoate (TU) and dimethandrolone undecanoate (DMAU) to their active metabolites, testosterone (T), and dimethandrolone (DMA), providing a more accurate assessment of circulating T/DMA levels.

Methods

Blood was collected in tubes with/without esterase inhibitors from: (i) four healthy and four hypogonadal men receiving no androgens and spiked ex vivo with TU/DMAU; (ii) four men taking oral TU (Andriol®); and (iii) eight hypogonadal men dosed with oral 316 mg TU and 15 healthy men with 200 mg DMAU. T/DMA levels were measured by LC‐MS/MS.

Results

Sodium fluoride (NaF, an esterase inhibitor) decreased measured T levels by 14.2% in men not receiving TU. Increasing amounts of TU/DMAU added to blood collected into plain tubes resulted in a concentration‐dependent overestimation of T/DMA that was reduced by collecting blood into NaF tubes (by 30–85%), and keeping samples at 4 °C and minimizing time prior to centrifugation. After oral TU/DMAU administration to men, when TU/DMAU levels were >15/10 ng/mL, respectively, blood collected in NaF tubes yielded lower measured T concentrations by 15–30% and DMA by 22% due to an additional inhibitory effect of NaF on blood esterases.

Conclusion

NaF directly lowers plasma T/DMA levels measured by LC‐MS/MS and also inhibits blood esterase activity. Overestimation of T/DMA in blood collected in tubes without NaF after oral TU/DMAU administration is important for pharmacokinetics studies in drug development clinical trials but may have limited impact in clinical practice/utilization because the differences between measured and true androgen values are modest and the wide therapeutic androgen efficacy ranges obviate the need for highly accurate androgen measurements during therapy.
Is single‐anaesthetic bilateral primary total hip replacement still safe? A 16‐year cohort study from the New Zealand Joint Registry
Authors: Wyatt Michael C. , Hozack Joan W. , Frampton Chris , Rothwell Alastair , Hooper Gary J.
Published: October 2018

Background

The surgical management options for bilateral hip osteoarthritis comprise staged or single‐anaesthetic bilateral total hip replacements (THRs). The key issue of contention in performing the latter remains safety. We compared unilateral, staged bilateral and single‐anaesthetic bilateral THR with the hypothesis that there would be no difference between these three practices using mortality risk, functional outcome and revision rate as the primary outcome measures.

Methods

We performed a retrospective cohort analysis of the New Zealand Joint Registry identifying all primary THRs performed between 1 January 1999 and 31 December 2015. We report this study in accordance with STROBE and RECORD guidelines. We identified all unilateral THRs, all single‐anaesthetic bilateral THRs and all staged bilateral THRs and compared the mortality risk, all‐cause revision risk with Kaplan–Meier survival analysis and reasons for revision and functional outcome using the Oxford 12 scores. Analysis was adjusted for age, gender, American Society of Anesthesiologists rating score and body mass index.

Results

The mortality risk for single‐anaesthetic bilateral THR within 3 months was 0.26% and for unilateral THR 0.75% (hazard ratio 0.35 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.30–0.41, P < 0.001). The risk of revision in the single‐anaesthetic bilateral THR group was 0.69/100 component years (95% CI 0.59–0.79/100 component years) versus 0.74/100 component years (95% CI 0.72–0.77/100 component years) in unilateral THR. Mean Oxford 12 scores at 6 months post‐arthroplasty was 41.7 (95% CI 41.2–42.2) in the single‐anaesthetic bilateral THR group. The best results in the staged bilateral THR group were obtained if the second procedure was delayed by at least 90 days from the first THR.

Conclusions

Single anaesthetic bilateral THR is at least as safe as unilateral THR or staged bilateral THR in appropriately selected cases. Experienced surgeons can expect predictable survival rates and functional scores.
Impact of intraoperative parathyroid hormone monitoring on the management of patients with primary hyperparathyroidism
Authors: Shawky Michael , Abdel Aziz Tarek , Morley Simon , Beale Timothy , Bomanji Jamshed , Soromani Christine , Lam Francis , Philips Ian , Matias Michelle , Honour John , Smart Jamie , Kurzawinski Tom R.
Published: October 2018

Background/Objective

Intraoperative parathyroid hormone (IOPTH) monitoring during surgery for primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT) could improve cure rate and simplify current care pathways. This study assesses the performance of US, MIBI and IOPTH monitoring and their impact on outcomes and perioperative strategy.

Design

This is a retrospective study of a prospectively maintained database of patients who underwent parathyroidectomy guided by preoperative US, MIBI and IOPTH monitoring. Test performance (sensitivity, specificity, PPV, NPV, accuracy) and IOPTH added value (percentage of patients in whom test contributed to achieving cure) were calculated.

Results

A total of 617 patients (median age 59 years, 75% females), 603 (97.7%) of them cured, were included in analysis. Sensitivity of US was higher than MIBI (78.2% vs 70%, P < 0.05), but both were inferior to IOPTH (98.6%, P < 0.05). US and MIBI were more sensitive at detecting single gland disease (SGD) than multigland disease (MGD) (85% vs 55% and 77.5% vs 45.5%, respectively, P < 0.05), while IOPTH performed well in both situations (98.8% vs 96.7%, P > 0.05). In 41 patients with incorrect US predictions, MIBI gave correct result only in 12 (29.3%) cases, while IOPTH gave correct predictions in all but one patient (97.6%). Minimally invasive parathyroidectomy (MIP) was completed in 409 patients, with a similar completion rate regardless whether both or one scan was positive. IOPTH added value was significant in whole cohort (14%) and in subgroups of patients with concordant vs discordant scans, minimally invasive vs conventional surgery, and initial vs reoperative surgery.

Conclusions

Intraoperative parathyroid hormone monitoring is more accurate at predicting cure than US and MIBI are at identifying abnormal glands in patients undergoing parathyroidectomy for PHPT and significantly contributes to cure rate in range of clinical scenarios. This implies that its routine use could facilitate successful surgery in patients with single positive imaging and increase number of MIPs while maintaining high cure rate.