bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Risk Management in the Ambulatory Care Process in a Mutual Benefit Association Covering Work-Related Accidents and Diseases: Applying Modified Failure Mode and Effect Analysis (FMEA) Methodology
Authors: Grau Norma , Manzanera Rafael , Orrego Carola , Ortner Jordi , Vives Albert , Saurí Carme , Moya Diego , Martínez José Miguel
Published: November 2018

Aim

To assess the impact of different forms of use of failure mode and effect analysis methodology for risk prioritization in the ambulatory care process in a mutual benefit association covering work-related accidents and diseases.

Methods

The study is based on a previously drafted and individually prioritized risk map by a multidisciplinary team made up of patient safety committee members from health care centers and clinics in a mutual benefit association covering work-related accidents and diseases. The professionals mainly carry out their work in the field of management (individual manager group (IMG)). A group formed by clinicians subsequently completed 2 prioritizations: one based on the individual opinions of each of the members (individual clinical group (ICG)) and another in a consensual way (consensual clinical group (CCG)) as recommended by failure mode and effect analysis methodology. The risk prioritization was compared in the 3 groups (IMG, ICG, and CCG).

Results

The risk prioritization by the IMG defines 7 extreme risks (risk prioritization ≥ 275). When the clinical group prioritizes them in an individual way (ICG), there is no extreme risk, whereas when it does so in a consensual way (CCG), there are 21 extreme risks. With respect to the coincidences of existing causes between the 3 groups, it is noted that the “risk of falls” is rated by both the clinical and the manager group but prioritized differently. On the other hand, the ICG and CCG coincide in that pressure on health care services can contribute to carrying out incomplete anamnesis. They also both consider that internal and external waiting lists and holiday periods can cause a delay in the starting of rehabilitation. The IMG and the CCG show similarity in the risk assessment of overprescribing medication and that multiple computer sessions are initiated. Finally, the IMG and the ICG coincide in the “lack of delivery of the medication leaflet”.

Conclusions

The point of view of the clinicians is important in the risk prioritization of the ambulatory health care process. The difference in the risk prioritization between the clinical group at individual level and after consensus is remarkable.
Design and Usability Testing of the Stroke Caregiver Support System: A Mobile-Friendly Website to Reduce Stroke Caregiver Burden
Authors: Caunca Michelle R. , Simonetto Marialaura , Hartley Gregory , Wright Clinton B. , Czaja Sara J.
Published: November 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to design a mobile-friendly, Internet-based website, modeled on previously described websites for Alzheimer caregivers, to equip stroke caregivers and potentially reduce caregiver burden.

Design

A mixed-methods study was performed to design and test the usability of the Stroke Caregiver Support System (SCSS).

Methods

An iterative, user-centered design approach was employed in three phases: (I) Focus Groups, (II) Structured Interviews, and (III) Usability Testing. Phase I and Phase II provided information for the development of the SCSS website, whereas Phase III helped in gathering data regarding the usability and efficacy of the newly implemented SCSS website.

Findings

Qualitative data on caregiving and the content and design of the SCSS were obtained from focus groups and interviews. In the usability test, the nine caregivers who completed Phase III (78% women, mean age = 46, SD = 17) exhibited a high level of burden and depressive symptoms (median [Q1, Q3] Zarit burden score = 18 [16, 23], Center of Epidemiologic Studies-Depression Scale = 15 [8, 17]). Caregivers conveyed the usability of the SCSS but also expressed several needed improvements.

Conclusions

Participants reported the value of the SCSS, but further refinements are needed to maximize its usability and potential efficacy.

Clinical Relevance

The SCSS has potential to reduce caregiver burden in stroke.
Perinasal Osteotomy With Distraction Osteogenesis for a Mild Syndromic Craniosynostosis
Authors: Kobayashi Shinji , Fukawa Toshihiko , Yasumura Kazunori , Satake Toshihiko , Maegawa Jiro
Published: November 2018

Le Fort II and III procedures have generally been performed for syndromic craniosynostosis with midfacial hypoplasia and skeletal class III malocclusion. However, some patients have midfacial hypoplasia without malocclusion. Perinasal osteotomy was performed with distraction osteogenesis to move the midface forward in 2 patients (a 17-year old female patient with Crouzon-like disease and a 15-year-old female patient with Antely–Bixler syndrome) with mild midface hypoplasia without malocclusion. The success of the procedure was assured by 3 features: the intermaxillary sutures were fixed by a mini metal plate to prevent separation during distraction; the distraction wires were fixed through the bone of the piriform aperture with the mini metal plates to prevent the wires from coming off; and the osteotomy line was designed in front of the palatomaxillary suture to avoid suture damage. These were expected to secure the procedure. Perinasal osteotomy with distraction osteogenesis is considered one of the recommended procedures for mild midfacial hypoplasia as seen in mild syndromic craniosynostosis without malocclusion.
Abnormal Liver Enzymes
Authors: Melendez-Rosado Jose , Alsaad Ali , Stancampiano Fernando F. , Palmer William C.
Published: November 2018

Abnormal liver enzymes are frequently encountered in primary care offices and hospitals and may be caused by a wide variety of conditions, from mild and nonspecific to well-defined and life-threatening. Terms such as “abnormal liver chemistries” or “abnormal liver enzymes,” also referred to as transaminitis, should be reserved to describe inflammatory processes characterized by elevated alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, and alkaline phosphatase. Although interchangeably used with abnormal liver enzymes, abnormal liver function tests specifically denote a loss of synthetic functions usually evaluated by serum albumin and prothrombin time. We discuss the entities that most commonly cause abnormal liver enzymes, specific patterns of enzyme abnormalities, diagnostic modalities, and the clinical scenarios that warrant referral to a hepatologist.
Multiple Patient Casualty Scenarios
Authors: Marlow Shannon L. , Bedwell Wendy L. , Zajac Stephanie , Reyes Denise L. , LaMar Michelle , Khan Saad , Lopreiato Joseph , Salas Eduardo
Published: November 2018

Introduction

Teamwork is a critical aspect of patient care and is especially salient in response to multiple patient casualties. Effective training and measurement improve team performance. However, the literature currently lacks a scientifically developed measure of team performance within multiple causality scenarios, making training and feedback efforts difficult. The present effort addresses this gap by integrating the input of subject matter experts and the science of multicasualty teams and training to (1) identify overarching teamwork processes and corresponding behaviors necessary for team performance and (2) develop a behavioral observation tool to optimize teamwork in multicasualty training efforts.

Method

A search of articles including team performance frameworks associated with team training was conducted, leading to the identification of a total of 14 articles. Trained coders extracted teamwork processes and the corresponding team behaviors indicative of effective performance from these articles. Five subject matter experts were interviewed using the critical incident technique to identify additional behaviors.

Results

Team situation awareness, team leadership, coordination, and information exchange emerged as the four core team processes required for team performance in scenarios with multiple patient casualties. Relevant behaviors and subbehaviors within these overarching processes were identified to inform a pilot behavioral framework of team performance.

Conclusions

The processes and associated behaviors identified within this effort serve as scientifically grounded behaviors of team performance in the case of multiple patient casualties simulated training scenarios. Future work can use and further refine these results to ensure that measures of team performance are grounded in specific, observable, and scientifically delineated behaviors.
Transcriptional regulatory networks that promote and restrict identities and functions of intestinal innate lymphoid cells
Authors: Pokrovskii Maria , Hall Jason A. , Ochayon David E. , Yi Ren , Chaimowitz Natalia S. , Seelamneni Harsha , Carriero Nicholas , Watters Aaron , Waggoner Stephen N. , Littman Dan R. , Bonneau Richard , Miraldi Emily R.
Published: November 2018

Innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) can be subdivided into several distinct cytokine-secreting lineages that promote tissue homeostasis and immune defense but also contribute to inflammatory diseases. Accumulating evidence suggests that ILCs, similarly to other immune populations, are capable of phenotypic and functional plasticity in response to infectious or environmental stimuli. Yet the transcriptional circuits that control ILC identity and function are largely unknown. Here we integrate gene expression and chromatin accessibility data to infer transcriptional regulatory networks within intestinal type 1, 2, and 3 ILCs. We predict the “core” sets of transcription-factor (TF) regulators driving each ILC subset identity, among which only a few TFs were previously known. To assist in the interpretation of these networks, TFs were organized into cooperative clusters, or modules that control gene programs with distinct functions. The ILC network reveals extensive alternative-lineage-gene repression, whose regulation may explain reported plasticity between ILC subsets. We validate new roles for c-MAF and BCL6 as regulators affecting the type 1 and type 3 ILC lineages. Manipulation of TF pathways identified here might provide a novel means to selectively regulate ILC effector functions to alleviate inflammatory disease or enhance host tolerance to pathogenic microbes or noxious stimuli. Our results will enable further exploration of ILC biology, while our network approach will be broadly applicable to identifying key cell state regulators in otherin vivocell populations.
Inferring the direction of rhythmic neural transmission via inter-regional phase-amplitude coupling (ir-PAC)
Authors: Nandi Bijurika , Swiatek Peter , Kocsis Bernat , Ding Mingzhou
Published: November 2018

Phase-amplitude coupling (PAC) estimates the statistical dependence between the phase of a low-frequency and the amplitude of a high-frequency component of local field potentials (LFP). Characterizing the relationship between nested oscillations in LFPs, PAC has become a powerful tool for understanding neural dynamics in both animals and humans. In this work, we introduce a new application for this measure to two LFPs to infer the direction and strength of rhythmic neural transmission between distinct networks. Based on recently accumulating evidence that transmembrane currents related to action potentials contribute a broad-band component to LFP in the high-gamma band, we hypothesized that PAC calculated between high-gamma in one LFP and low-frequency oscillations in another would relate the output (spiking) of one area to the input (soma/dendritic postsynaptic potentials) of the other. We tested this hypothesis on theta-band long range communications between hippocampus and prefrontal cortex (PFC) and theta-band short range communications between different regions within the hippocampus. The results were interpreted within the known anatomical connections predicting hippocampus→PFC and DG→CA3→CA1, i.e., theta transmission is unidirectional in both cases: from hippocampus to PFC and along the tri-synaptic pathway within hippocampus. We found that (1) hippocampal high-gamma amplitude was significantly coupled to theta phase in PFC, but not vice versa; (2) similarly, high-gamma amplitude in DG was significantly coupled to CA1 theta phase, but not vice versa, and (3) the DG high-gamma-CA1 theta PAC was significantly correlated with DG→CA1 Granger causality, a well-established analytical measure of directional neural transmission. These results support the hypothesis that inter-regional PAC (ir-PAC) can be used to relate the output of a “driver” network (i.e., high gamma) to the input of a “receiver” network (i.e., theta) and thereby establish the direction and strength of rhythmic neural transmission.
Intravenous colistin use for infections due to multidrug-resistant gram-negative bacilli in critically ill paediatric patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Karageorgos Spyridon A. , Bassiri Hamid , Siakallis George , Miligkos Michael , Tsioutis Constantinos
Published: November 2018

Synopsis

Background

Data are limited regarding the clinical effectiveness and safety of intravenous colistin for treatment of infections by multidrug-resistant gram-negative bacilli (MDR-GNB) in the paediatric intensive care unit (PICU).

Methods

Systematic review of intravenous colistin use in critically ill paediatric patients with MDR-GNB infection in PubMed, Scopus and Embase (through January 31st, 2018).

Results

Out of 1,181 citations, 7 studies were included on the use of intravenous colistin for 405 patients in PICU. Majority of patients were diagnosed with lower respiratory tract infections, with Acinetobacter baumannii being the predominant pathogen. Colistin dosages ranged between 2.6-18 mg/kg/day, with none but one case reporting a loading dose. Emergence of colistin-resistance during treatment was reported in two cases. Nephrotoxicity and neurotoxicity were reported in 6.1% and 0.5% respectively, but concomitant medications and severe underlying illness limited our ability to definitively associate use of colistin with nephrotoxicity. Crude mortality was 29.5% (95%CI 21.7-38.1%), whereas infection-related mortality was 16.6% (95%CI 12.2-21.5%).

Conclusions

While the reported incidence of adverse events related to colistin were low, reported mortality rates for infections by MDR-GNB in PICU were notable. In addition to severity of disease and comorbidities, inadequate daily dosage and the absence of a loading dose may have contributed to mortality. As the use of colistin for treatment of MDR-GNB infections increases, it is imperative to understand whether optimal dosing of colistin in paediatric patients differs across different age groups. As such, future studies to establish the pharmacokinetic properties of colistin in different paediatric settings are warranted.
Telomere length, arsenic exposure and risk of basal cell carcinoma of skin
Authors: Srinivas Nalini , Rachakonda Sivaramakrishna , Hielscher Thomas , Calderazzo Silvia , Rudnai Peter , Gurzau Eugen , Koppova Kvetoslava , Fletcher Tony , Kumar Rajiv
Published: November 2018

Telomere lengthper sea heritable trait has been reported to be associated with different diseases including cancers. In this study based on arsenic exposed 528 cases with basal cell carcinoma of skin (BCC) and 533 healthy controls, we observed a statistically significant association between decreased telomere length and increased BCC risk (OR = 5.92, 95% CI = 3.92-9.01,P<0.0001). We also observed that higher arsenic exposure (>1.32 µg/L) was statistically significantly associated with decreased telomere length (β = −0.026, 95% CI = − 0.05-0.003,P= 0.02). The interaction between arsenic exposure and telomere length on BCC risk was statistically significant (P= 0.02). Within each tertile based on arsenic exposure, the individuals with shorter telomeres were at an increased risk of BCC, with highest risk being in the highest exposed group (OR = 16.13, 95% CI = 6.71-40.00,P<0.0001); followed by those in medium exposure group (OR = 5.05, 95% CI = 2.29-10.20,P<0.0001), and low exposure group (OR = 3.44, 95% CI = 1.81-6.54,P= 0.0002). The combined effect of highest arsenic exposure and shortest telomeres on the risk of BCC (OR = 10.56, 95% CI = 5.14-21.70) showed a statistically significant departure from additivity (interaction constant ratio 6.56,P= 0.03). Our results show that in the presence of arsenic exposure, decreased telomere length predisposes individuals to increased risk of BCC, with the effect being synergistic in individuals with highest arsenic exposure and shortest telomeres.
Decoding G0 somatic mutants through deep phenotyping and mosaic pattern analysis in the zebrafish skeleton
Authors: Watson Claire J. , Monstad-Rios Adrian T. , Bhimani Rehaan M. , Gistelinck Charlotte , Willaert Andy , Coucke Paul , Hsu Yi-Hsiang , Kwon Ronald Y.
Published: November 2018

Genetic mosaicism manifests as spatially variable phenotypes, whose detection and interpretation remains challenging. This study identifies biological factors influencing spatial phenotypic patterns in the skeletons of somatic mutant zebrafish, and tests methods for their analysis using deep phenotyping. We explore characteristics of loss-of-function clusters in the skeleton of CRISPR-edited G0 ("crispant") zebrafish, and identify a distinctive size distribution shown to arise from clonal fragmentation and merger events. Using microCT-based phenomics, we describe diverse phenotypic manifestations in somatic mutants for genes implicated in monogenic (plod2 and bmp1a) and polygenic (wnt16) bone diseases, each showing convergence with germline mutant phenomes. Finally, we describe statistical frameworks for phenomic analysis which confers heightened sensitivity in discriminating somatic mutant populations, and quantifies spatial phenotypic variation. Our studies provide strategies for decoding spatially variable phenotypes which, paired with CRISPR-based screens, can identify genes contributing to skeletal disease.
The role of substrate type, moisture and temperature on the vertical growth of terricolous lichens
Authors: Monge-Nájera Julián
Published: November 2018

Lichens are traditionally divided into short “crustose”, intermediate “foliose” and tall “fruticose” types, a practice that hides a growth continuum. Substrate, temperature and water are thought to affect vertical growth, but such factors are difficult to measure, because, for example, the water actually available to lichens does not match rainfall patterns or even ground water levels. To reliably assess the effect of those factors, I recorded temperature, moisture, and substrate in and under individual terricolous lichen colonies in 60 fixed quadrats on April, August, October, and December of 2015 (Cerro de la Muerte, Costa Rica, 9°33′N; 83°45′W). The measurements were taken inside the colonies themselves (rather than on the general environment), covering an annual cycle of the relatively simple páramo habitat, where animals and vegetation have less impact than in lower ecosystems. The hypotheses were that lichens would grow taller on softer, warmer, and moister ground; on the Caribbean versant; and on the rainy season. Results matched the hypotheses, with one exception: lichens on soft ground were not taller than those on rock. Caribbean colonies were, on the average, 7 cm taller than those on the drier Pacific versant. Physiologically available water seems to be the main determinant of lichen vertical growth: more water means taller lichens and greater protection from climatic change for both the lichens and their microcommunities.
Crops and the seed mass-seed output trade-off in plants
Authors: Martin Adam R.
Published: November 2018

A trade-off between seed mass (SM) and seed output (SO) defines a central axis of ecological variation among plants, with implications for understanding both plant trait evolution and plant responses to environmental change. While an observed negative SM-SO relationship is hypothesized to reflect universal constraints on resource allocation in all plants, domestication has likely fundamentally altered this relationship. Using a dataset of SM and SO for 41 of the world most widespread crops and 1,190 wild plant species, coupled with observational data on these traits in soy (Glycine max) and maize (Zea mays), I show that domestication has systematically rewired SM-SO relationships in crops. Compared to wild plants, virtually all crops express a higher SM for a given SO; this domestication signature is especially prominent in seed crops, and also influences the phylogenetic signal in SM and SO. In maize these traits have become positively related likely due to simultaneous selection for greater SM and SO, while in soy these traits have become decoupled likely due to primary selection for SM only. Evolved relationships between SM and SO in plants have been disrupted by both conscious and unconscious artificial selection, which represents a key aspect of how the functional biology of crops differ fundamentally from wild plants along “universal” plant trait spectra.
A physical and genetic map of Cannabis sativa identifies extensive rearrangements at the THC/CBD acid synthase loci
Authors: Laverty Kaitlin U. , Stout Jake M. , Sullivan Mitchell J. , Shah Hardik , Gill Navdeep , Holbrook Larry , Deikus Gintaras , Sebra Robert , Hughes Timothy R. , Page Jonathan E. , van Bakel Harm
Published: November 2018

Cannabis sativa is widely cultivated for medicinal, food, industrial, and recreational use, but much remains unknown regarding its genetics, including the molecular determinants of cannabinoid content. Here, we describe a combined physical and genetic map derived from a cross between the drug-type strain Purple Kush and the hemp variety “Finola.” The map reveals that cannabinoid biosynthesis genes are generally unlinked but that aromatic prenyltransferase (AP), which produces the substrate for THCA and CBDA synthases (THCAS and CBDAS), is tightly linked to a known marker for total cannabinoid content. We further identify the gene encoding CBCA synthase (CBCAS) and characterize its catalytic activity, providing insight into how cannabinoid diversity arises in cannabis. THCAS and CBDAS (which determine the drug vs. hemp chemotype) are contained within large (>250 kb) retrotransposon-rich regions that are highly nonhomologous between drug- and hemp-type alleles and are furthermore embedded within ∼40 Mb of minimally recombining repetitive DNA. The chromosome structures are similar to those in grains such as wheat, with recombination focused in gene-rich, repeat-depleted regions near chromosome ends. The physical and genetic map should facilitate further dissection of genetic and molecular mechanisms in this commercially and medically important plant.
Crystal structure and Hirshfeld surface analysis of 1-{[2-oxo-3-(prop-1-en-2-yl)-2,3-dihydro-1H-1,3-benzodiazol-1-yl]methyl}-3-(prop-1-en-2-yl)-2,3-dihydro-1H-1,3-benzodiazol-2-one
Authors: Saber Asmaa , Sebbar Nada Kheira , Hökelek Tuncer , Hni Brahim , Mague Joel T. , Essassi El Mokhtar
Published: November 2018

In the title compound, C21H20N4O2, the intramolecular C—H...O hydrogen-bonded benzodiazolone moieties are planar to within 0.017 (1) and 0.026 (1) Å, and are oriented at a dihedral angle of 57.35 (3)°. In the crystal, two sets of intermolecular C—H...O hydrogen bonds generate layers parallel to the bc plane. The Hirshfeld surface analysis of the crystal structure indicates that the most important contributions for the crystal packing are from H...H (51.8%), H...C/C...H (30.7%) and H...O/O...H (11.2%) interactions.
A 1:2 co-crystal of 2,2′-thiodibenzoic acid and triphenylphosphane oxide: crystal structure, Hirshfeld surface analysis and computational study
Authors: Tan Sang Loon , Tiekink Edward R. T.
Published: November 2018

The asymmetric unit of the title co-crystal, 2,2′-thiodibenzoic acid–triphenylphosphane oxide (1/2), C14H10O4S·2C18H15OP, comprises two molecules of 2,2′-thiodibenzoic acid [TDBA; systematic name: 2-[(2-carboxyphenyl)sulfanyl]benzoic acid] and four molecules of triphenylphosphane oxide [TPPO; systematic name: (diphenylphosphoryl)benzene]. The two TDBA molecules are twisted about their disulfide bonds and exhibit dihedral angles of 74.40 (5) and 72.58 (5)° between the planes through the two SC6H4residues. The carboxylic acid groups are tilted out of the planes of the rings to which they are attached forming a range of CO2/C6dihedral angles of 19.87 (6)–60.43 (8)°. Minor conformational changes are exhibited in the TPPO molecules with the range of dihedral angles between phenyl rings being −2.1 (1) to −62.8 (1)°. In the molecular packing, each TDBA acid molecule bridges two TPPO moleculesviahydroxy-O—H...O(oxide) hydrogen bonds to form two three-molecule aggregates. These are connected into a three-dimensional architecture by TPPO-C—H...O(oxide, carbonyl) and TDBA-C—H...(oxide, carbonyl) interactions. The importance of H...H, O...H/H...O and C...H/H...C contacts to the calculated Hirshfeld surfaces has been demonstrated. In terms of individual molecules, O...H/H...O contacts are more important for the TDBA (ca28%) than for the TPPO molecules (ca13%), as expected from the chemical composition of these species. Computational chemistry indicates the four independent hydroxy-O—H...O(oxide) hydrogen bonds in the crystal impart about the same energy (ca52 kJ mol−1), with DTBA-phenyl-C—H...O(oxide) interactions being next most stabilizing (ca40 kJ mol−1).
Binary charge-transfer complexes using pyromellitic acid dianhydride featuring C—H...O hydrogen bonds
Authors: Hill Tania N. , Lemmerer Andreas
Published: November 2018

Four binary charge-transfer complexes were made using pyromellitic acid dianhydride (pmda), those being pmda–naphthalene (1/1), C10H2O6·C10H8, (I), pmda–fluoranthene (1/1), C10H2O6·C16H10, (II), pmda–9-methylanthracene (1/1), C10H2O6·C15H12, (III), and pmda–ethyl anthracene-9-carboxylate (1/2), C10H2O6·2C17H12O3, (IV). All charge-transfer complexes show alternating donor and acceptor stacks, which have weak C—H...O hydrogen bonds connecting the donor and acceptor molecules. In addition, complex (I) has Z′ = 1/2, complex (II) has a Z′ = 2 and complex (IV) has half molecule of pyromellitic acid dianhydride in the asymmetric unit.
The rel-R,R-enantiomer of 7-[7-hydroxybicyclo[4.2.0]octa-1(6),2,4-trien-7-yl]bicyclo[4.2.0]octa-1(6),2,4-trien-7-ol
Authors: Detert Heiner , Schollmeyer Dieter
Published: November 2018

A single crystal of the rel-R,R-enantiomer of the title compound, C16H14O2, was analyzed. The molecular structure is characterized by nearly planar cyclobutene rings and a torsion angle of the diol unit of 68.3 (2)°. Strands parallel to the b axis are built from diols connected via hydrogen bonds.
Electro chemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) study of modified SS316L using radio frequency sputtering Ti6Al4V coating in Ringer solution
Authors: Siyah Murtdha Adhab , Moradian Rostam , Manouchehri Iraj
Published: November 2018

Purpose

SS316L alloy used in biomedical application and the alloy have Fe, Cr and Ni elements and release this ion into the human body causing dangerous effects for the human body, and make the SS316L, which is used as surgical implant failure in short time in biomedical application. This study aims to use Ti6Al4V as coating for SS316L alloy to make it have bio inert surface, and modified the surface alloy for biomedical application from another part in this study, we want to decrease the corrosion rate for SS316L in simulated body surface Ringer solution.

Design/methodology/approach

The morphology, roughness, XRD of the coating, potential polarization and electrochemical impedance spectra investigation to study the effect of Ti6Al4V coating on corrosion behaviors of SS316L in the Ringer solution.

Findings

This study discusses the modification of SS316L surfaces by using Ti6Al4V radio magnetron frequency sputtering techniques, the results of the EIS and polarization of SS316L in Ringer’s solution at 37°C shows that improved resistance against corrosive ions for all the samples coating with Ti6Al4V and especially with a coating have a thickness of 850 nm at a sputtering power of 150 W.

Research limitations/implications

Polarization and electro chemical impedance spectra were assessed to investigate the effect of Ti6Al4V coating on corrosion behaviors of SS316L alloy in the Ringer solution.

Practical implications

This study discussed the modification SS316L surfaces by using Ti6Al4V radio magnetron frequency sputtering techniques. The results of the EIS and polarization of SS316L in Ringer’s solution at 37°C improved resistance against corrosive ions for all the samples coating with a Ti6Al4V and specificity with the coating sample have a thickness 850 nm at a sputtering power of 150 W.

Social implications

The goal of this study to modification SS316L alloy surface by using Ti6al4V RF Sputtering to give the SS316L alloy more resistance for biocorrosion.

Originality/value

In this research, Ti6Al4V RF sputtering as a coating for SS316L, study the bio corrosion behaviors in Simulated body fluid Ringer solution and investigation the corrosion by using EIS analysis.
Exploration on factors influencing Korean diaspora entrepreneurs’ investment in the homeland
Authors: Park Choo-Hui , Chu Hankyu
Published: November 2018

Purpose

The Government of Korea institutionalized the World Korean Business Convention (WKBC) and the World Korean Business Network (WKBN) to promote Korean diaspora entrepreneurs’ investment in the homeland. Few studies have examined the effectiveness of the WKBC and WKBN and the critical variables affecting them. This paper aims to fill this gap by exploring important variables affecting Korean diaspora entrepreneurs’ investment in the homeland. It also seeks to examine the relationships among these variables to inquire upon a set of critical questions pertaining to Korean diaspora entrepreneurs’ investment in the homeland including the effectiveness of the WKBC and WKBN.

Design/methodology/approach

To achieve the above purpose, critical variables influencing Korean diaspora entrepreneurs’ investment in the homeland were identified and four hypotheses that include the inquiries pertaining to the effectiveness of the WKBC and WKBN were developed in terms of those variables. The hypotheses were empirically tested using the survey data gathered from the participants of the annual WKBC.

Findings

The current research found that Korean diaspora entrepreneurs’ evaluation of the investment climate in the homeland was not favorable. The WKBC was positively evaluated by Korean diaspora entrepreneurs willing to make investment, There is discrepancy between expectations of the WKBN’s target group (i.e. Korean diaspora entrepreneurs willing to make investment) and its performance for the group, and there is a difference between ascending and descending Korean diaspora entrepreneurs in assessment of investment value of the homeland.

Originality/value

A majority of studies on diaspora entrepreneurship and development have so far cast light on ascending diaspora entrepreneurs while neglecting descending diaspora entrepreneurs. In this regard, the most interesting finding of the current study to both researchers and policymakers may be the fact that descending Korean diaspora entrepreneurs assess the investment value of the homeland differently from ascending Korea diaspora entrepreneurs. The finding calls for further research on causes of the difference, and different natures of descending diaspora entrepreneurs compared to those of ascending diaspora entrepreneurs. Such research will enable policymakers to formulate and implement effective strategic diaspora policies that take the differences into consideration.
Carnival Corporation: The Challenges of Cutting Costs While Maintaining Quality and Customer Satisfaction
Authors: Verbeek Dick
Published: November 2018

This case study has been developed to facilitate discussion about current supply chain management issues and potential solutions. The scenario presented in this case is very representative of the pressures experienced by supply chain managers. Namely, the need to reduce costs while maintaining quality and customer service. This case presents some unusual challenges and constraints that are unique to the cruise line industry. These constraints can provide an opportunity to explore new supply chain paradigms.
Effect of hot obstacle position on natural convection heat transfer of MWCNTs-water nanofluid in U-shaped enclosure using lattice Boltzmann method
Authors: Ma Yuan , Mohebbi Rasul , Rashidi Mohammad Mehdi , Yang Zhigang
Published: November 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to numerically investigate the natural convection heat transfer of multi-wall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs)-water nanofluid in U-shaped enclosure equipped with a hot obstacle by using the lattice Boltzmann method.

Design/methodology/approach

The combination of the three topics (U-shaped enclosure, different positions of the hot obstacle and MWCNTs-water nanofluid) is innovative in the present study. In total, 15 different positions of the hot obstacle have been arranged, and the effects of pertinent parameters such as Rayleigh numbers, the solid volume fraction of the MWCNTs nanoparticles on the flow field, temperature distribution and the rate of heat transfer inside the enclosure are also investigated.

Findings

It is found that the average Nusselt number increased by raising the Rayleigh number, and so did the nanoparticle solid volume fraction regardless the position of the hot obstacle. Moreover, enclosures where the hot obstacle is located at the bottom region proved to provide a better rate of heat transfer at high Rayleigh number (106). It is concluded that at a low Ra number (103-105), the higher heat transfer rate and Nu number will be obtained when the hot obstacle is located in the left or right channel.

Originality/value

In the literature, no trace of studying the natural convection of nanofluids in U-shaped enclosures with heating obstacles was found. Also, MWCNTs were less used as nanoparticles. As the natural convection of nanofluids in thermal engineering applications would expand the existing knowledge, the current researchers conducted a numerical study of the natural convection of Maxwell nanofluid with MWCNTs in U-shaped enclosure equipped with a hot obstacle by using lattice Boltzmann method.
The impact of industrial self-supply on Bavaria’s electricity system – effects on supply security and market prices
Authors: Scheubel Christopher , Matthäus David , Friedl Gunther
Published: November 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyze the role of industrial self-supply in the transition process from centralized energy generation based on fossil fuels and nuclear power to decentralized supply based on renewable energies in the Bavarian electricity system.

Design/methodology/approach

To quantify effects on system and price stability, a model of the Bavarian electricity grid is created and used to simulate electricity system behavior during a 1-year period for scenarios that are characterized by parameter variations in industrial self-supply, nuclear power capacity, renewable power generation and the capacity of electricity imports.

Findings

The simulations show that industrial self-supply can reduce instances of maximum grid utilization by 23 per cent and, based on the merit-order effect, decrease electricity market prices by 1.90 and 5.03 €/MWh in the scenarios with and without nuclear power, respectively; these values represent 5.7 and 15.0 per cent of average market prices from 2014.

Research limitations/implications

The analysis shows that industrial self-supply can contribute to transforming the electricity system in a secure, sustainable and affordable manner. However, merit-order-based price effects have a limitation concerning the future applicability of results as quantified effects may not be permanent when the electricity system adapts.

Originality/value

This paper connects industrial self-supply and the merit-order effect within a nodal energy model. It provides insights into the relevant interdependencies and reciprocal effects by means of a simulation.
Macro-level antecedents of consumer brand hate
Authors: Kucuk S. Umit
Published: November 2018

Purpose

This study aims to discuss the antecedent roles that corporate social responsibility and consumer complaints perform in consumer brand hate and anti-branding activities.

Design/methodology/approach

The reasons for the existence of anti-brand websites and how they operate in dynamically changing digital platforms are discussed with a literature review and data analysis.

Findings

The findings of this study reveal that there is a direct link between consumer dissatisfaction and brand hate, and that there is a partially mediating impact by customer dissatisfaction and corporate social responsibility on consumer brand hate.

Originality/value

This study is the first-of-its-kind investigation of the relationships that might exist among corporate social responsibility, consumer complaints and dissatisfaction, consumer anti-branding and brand hate with macro-level indicators. The study is the first of its kind to test macro-level brand hate measures with a set of longitudinal analyses.
“Is sharing really caring?”
Authors: Wan Ismail Wan Rusni , Othman Mohhidin , Abdul Rahman Russly , Kamarulzaman Nitty Hirawaty , Ab Rahman Suhaimi Bin
Published: November 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the extent and the impact of negative electronic word of mouth (eWoM) on Muslim consumers’ tolerance and to look for evidence on whether it can pose threat to high-tolerance products and cause spillover effect on products in similar category.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used a qualitative method with purposive sampling, and data were collected from 23 Malay Muslim consumers using in-depth interviews.

Findings

Findings from this study clearly showed that consumers’ perception toward effected products can easily be distorted with negative claim which indicates that halal issues are very sensitive to Muslim consumers. The negative eWoM distorts consumers’ perception toward effected product and the effect was also found to escalate into other brands that share similar category as the effected products.

Practical implications

By examining the negative impact of eWoM, it validates the severe impact it has on Muslim consumers, and it is quite obvious that no products are really safe from it, including high-tolerance products. Evidence from this study revealed the importance and the urgency for organizations to handle any rumors immediately because further delay can result from significant loses in sales and can tarnish the brand image.

Originality/value

Negative claims related to the halal product status often sparks negative reactions, especially among Muslim consumers, and despite frequent occurrence of such event, very little information is available on its impact on consumers’ tolerance. Certain products fall under safe product category, or high-tolerance products are also found to be vulnerable to negative impact of eWoM because once the consumers’ trust is shaken, confidence will be replaced by doubt, which often leads to loss of sales and loyalty. It is commonly known that effected products and brand will suffer from this event; however, spillover effect is another side effect of negative eWoM that is not yet highlighted in previous studies.
Investigating user continuance intention toward library self-service technology
Authors: Wu Chorng-Guang , Wu Pei-Yin
Published: November 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to apply expectation-confirmation theory (ECT) and the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology (UTAUT) to identify potential determinants of library patrons’ intention to continue using (continuance) self-issue and return systems for borrowing and returning books. The role of continuance is specifically interesting and is well-established in the literature of information systems (ISs) and marketing because continuance is considered to be the central element for the survival of ISs and of self-service technology (SST). However, the role of continuance has been neglected by researchers studying library SST adoption.

Design/methodology/approach

A research model integrating the expectation-confirmation model of IS continuance with UTAUT was developed and empirically validated using data obtained from a field survey involving 128 active users of a self-issue and return system at a public library in Taiwan.

Findings

Library patrons’ continuance intention was affected by their post-adoption expectation of perceived performance, effort performance and facilitating conditions as well as their satisfaction when using self-issue and return systems. Moreover, a patron satisfaction level was influenced by performance expectancy and confirmation of initial expectations, whereas confirmation had a positive effect on all post-adoption expectations.

Originality/value

This study broadens perspectives on SST adoption behavior in the library context by identifying some factors that influence library patrons’ continuance decisions. Furthermore, the authors verified the applicability and predictability of the theoretical integration of ECT with UTAUT in a diverse setting because the authors sought survey participants outside of the college population.
Team effectiveness: the predictive role of team identity
Authors: Reis Daniela Pinheiro dos , Puente-Palacios Katia
Published: November 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to identify the explanatory power of the affective, cognitive and evaluative aspects of identity with work teams in predicting team effectiveness, represented by the variables: satisfaction with the team, manager-assessed team performance and objective indicators of performance.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected from 131 work teams of a Brazilian public organization with units in all state capitals of the country. Work team identity scale, the work team satisfaction scale, the team performance scale and objective performance indicators collected based on the achievement of the goals set for the units that make up the organization were used. To test the predictive model, three regressions were conducted using the stepwise method.

Findings

Regression analysis results showed that the evaluative dimension explains about 6% of the performance assessment given by managers, whereas the affective dimension explains 63% of the satisfaction with work teams. No significant results were found for the objective performance indicators.

Originality/value

The observed findings demonstrate the pertinence of understanding the work team identity as a collective and multidimensional phenomenon, as well as the contribution of its different components in explaining variables that represent effectiveness.
Inter‐populational variation, but no‐annual variation within populations, in terms of reproductive size and genetic structure in a monocarpic perennial herb, Cardiocrinum cordatum var. glehnii
Authors: Hayafune Takuma , Utech Frederick H. , Ohara Masashi
Published: November 2018

Cardiocrinum cordatum var. glehnii (Liliaceae) is a monocarpic perennial herb living in temperate broad‐leaved deciduous forests. In the present study we examined the sizes (basal diameter of the stem and flower numbers) of flowering individuals and genetic diversity using microsatellite loci of 23 populations of C. cordatum var. glehnii in Hokkaido, Japan, over 2 years (2009 and 2010). As a result, we found both the basal stem diameter and the number of flowers varied widely among the populations. However, although the sizes of flowering individuals differed among the populations, these were very stable in each population and in each year. In addition, for genetic diversity, the same trends (i.e. wide variation among the populations but non‐annual variation) were detected.
The Local Impacts of Agricultural Subsidies: Evidence from the Canadian Prairies
Authors: Bollman Ray D. , Ferguson Shon M.
Published: November 2018

We estimate the impact of removing an export subsidy on the local economies of Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba, exploiting the large regional variation of a 1995 reform. We find that the loss of the subsidy resulted in significantly lower farm value‐added, farm asset values and local non‐farm employment. The results suggest that the subsidy removal had detrimental spillover effects on the local non‐agricultural economy that varied spatially across the Prairies. The point estimates suggest that the marginal effect of the subsidy loss on non‐agricultural employment was five times as large as those obtained from traditional estimates of the multiplier effect.
A qualitative study of quality of life domains and subdomains relevant to patients with spondyloarthritis
Authors: Kwan Yu Heng , Fong Warren , Leung Ying Ying , Tan Victoria Ie Ching , Yap Angela Frances , Phang Jie Kie , Lui Nai Lee , Yoon Sungwon , Malhotra Rahul , Thumboo Julian , Østbye Truls
Published: November 2018

Aims

To identify quality of life (QoL) domains and subdomains relevant to patients with different spondyloarthritis (SpA) subtypes in Singapore, and to assess how identified QoL domains and subdomains map onto currently used patient‐reported outcome measures (PROMs).

Methods

Nine focus group discussions (FGDs), including two previously conducted FGDs from the Updating the Psoriatic Arthritis Core Domain Set Study, were conducted with patients with SpA in Singapore. The FGDs were organized by SpA subtype and language spoken. All FGDs were audio‐taped, transcribed verbatim. After thematic analysis through open and axial coding, the domains were organized using the World Health Organization Quality of Life (WHOQOL) framework. Identified QoL domains and subdomains were mapped to currently used PROMs.

Results

The nine FGDs included 51 patients. In total, 27 domains and 92 subdomains were identified and then organized within the 7 broad categories of the WHOQOL framework. Patients in Singapore were more concerned about “financial resources, ” “work satisfaction” and “positive feelings” while less concerned about “freedom, physical safety and security” than patients in Western countries. “Home environment” and “work satisfaction” emerged as unique QoL domains relevant to patients with axial SpA (axSpA). PROMs for psoriatic arthritis (PsA) can capture both identified domains of PsA and axSpA.

Conclusions

A wide range of QoL domains and subdomains are relevant to SpA patients in Singapore, and there appears to be minimal differences in their relative importance between SpA subtypes. This study supports the development and validation of common QoL‐specific PROMs for usage in SpA.