bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reversing the lens
Authors: Khan Sajjad Nawaz , Abdullah Siti Mariam , Busari Abdul Halim , Mubushar Muhammad , Khan Ikram Ullah
Published: January 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the role of followership dimensions in the transformational leadership process by reversing the lens from the traditional leader-centric perspective to emerging followership perspective and examine the role of trust as a mediating variable in the proposed relationship.

Design/methodology/approach

Using quantitative method data were collected through a questionnaire from 506 respondents of the telecom sector in Pakistan. The proposed hypotheses were tested using SPSS V.23 and PROCESS V.3.1.

Findings

The results indicate that followership dimensions (active engagement and independent critical thinking) positively affect all the four constructs of transformational leadership (idealized influence, inspirational motivation, intellectual stimulation and individualized consideration). Furthermore, trust in leadership partially mediates the direct relationship between followership dimensions and transformational leadership constructs.

Research limitations/implications

This study is conducted in a developing country context which limits its generalizability in other cultural backgrounds. Hence, further investigation could test the role of followership using different samples and methods.

Practical implications

Organizations need to pay more attention to followers’ development to produce better followership outcomes that will ultimately help establish strong relationships with transformational leaders and sustained positive outcomes.

Originality/value

This study empirically tests Shamir’s (2007) “reversing the lens” perspective and extends a distinct theoretical contribution to the social exchange theory that neither followers are passive participants, nor always on the receiving end of the relationship but they actively participate to establish a strong relationship with their leaders.
Pre-IPO cash flow volatility and aftermarket valuation
Authors: Cox Justin S.
Published: January 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine how pre-IPO cash flow and earnings volatility influence both post-IPO pricing and valuation. This paper provides an empirical extension of Pástor and Veronesi’s (2003, 2005) argument that uncertainty surrounding a private firm’s expected profitability can impact how the firm is valued in the IPO aftermarket.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper includes a sample of 695 IPOs between 1996 and 2011. Pre-IPO financial statement data are hand collected from the EDGAR database. Pre-IPO cash flow and earnings volatility is computed using the standard deviation of the firm’s three years of cash flows and earnings prior to the IPO. Tobin’s Q serves as a measure of post-IPO firm valuation. This paper includes two subsamples to account for the “hot” IPO market of the late 1990s.

Findings

Firms with higher pre-IPO cash flow volatility are associated with higher post-IPO aftermarket valuations. This result holds for both the “hot” IPO and the later sub-sample. Pre-IPO earnings volatility does not influence aftermarket valuations, suggesting that only the uncertainty surrounding cash flows serves as a salient measure to IPO investors. Finally, IPO underpricing is associated with pre-IPO cash flow volatility, suggesting another channel in which IPO pricing is influenced.

Research limitations/implications

The hand collection for this paper is laborious and is limited to yearly cash flow and earnings numbers. The paper documents that quarterly and yearly cash flow and earnings volatility measures are highly correlated for the select stocks that allow for such testing. Further, a broader sample that accounts for more international IPO issues might corroborate the findings in this paper.

Practical implications

This study shows that investors both initially price and value IPO firms base on their pre-IPO cash flow volatility.

Originality/value

This is the first paper to examine the direct link between pre-IPO cash flow and earnings volatility on IPO aftermarket valuation and IPO pricing.
A three-stage model of the volatility-volume relation in the Junk bond market during the 2007-2008 financial crisis
Authors: Yamani Ehab
Published: January 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the joint dynamics of volatility–volume relation in the high-yield (junk) corporate bond market during the 2007–2008 financial crisis.

Design/methodology/approach

The author proposes a new empirical model of three-stage equations to better estimate the volume–volatility relation that helps in alleviating three econometrical problems. In Stage 1, the author estimates the fitted values of trading volume using a censored regression model, to alleviate the truncation problems of using Transaction Reporting and Compliance Engine data. In Stage 2, the author calculates the fitted values of bond return volatility using asymmetric Sign-GARCH model, to control for the asymmetric volatility in return series. In Stage 3, the author uses the fitted values of trading volume from the censored regression model (Stage 1) and the fitted values of return volatility from the GARCH model (Stage 2), to better alleviate the endogeneity problems between both variables.

Findings

The central finding is that conclusions about the statistical significance and the direction of the volume–volatility relationship in the junk bond market are dependent on the econometric methodology used.

Originality/value

From a practitioner perspective, it is important for professional traders holding positions in fixed income securities in their trading accounts to be aware of their asymmetric time-varying volume–volatility shifting trends. Such knowledge helps traders diversify their positions and manage their portfolios more appropriately.
Shared social responsibility. Dual role of consumers as stakeholders in firm strategy
Authors: Barboza Gustavo , Pede Valerien , Madero Sergio
Published: January 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to model the role that stakeholders, and especially social responsible consumers play in the process of finding a win–win solution to control production related negative externalities. In this regard, when information asymmetries are present and consumers become knowledgeable about them, consumers with d-preferences for corporate social responsibility (CSR) type of products becomes the driver of the firm strategy.

Design/methodology/approach

To accomplish the goals of this paper, the authors proceed to develop a series of theoretical models wherein the social gains and costs of alternative modes of intervention are illustrated. The authors begin with a standard Pigouvian tax model and construct a stakeholder equivalent tax model and finalize the analysis with consumers acting in a shared social responsible behavior with firms as the optimal solution model.

Findings

The authors show that proactive disclosure of information asymmetries regarding negative externalities develops a shared social responsibility between consumers and firms. Market-based solutions to the externality problem are achieved under this setting. This solution is preferred to a Pigouvian tax and to a stakeholder equivalent tax. It is concluded that shared social responsibility is the result of the interaction of consumers with d-preferences and the reaction of a socially responsible “firm” willing, and the authors are able to incorporate these preferences as drivers for its strategy.

Research limitations/implications

The main limitation of this paper is in its theoretical nature and specific applications to one case, that of negative externalities in production processes. The implication of this is that the model herein developed needs to be put to the empirical test.

Social implications

The overall social implications indicate that active reduction of information asymmetries is welfare improving and preferred to government intervention.

Originality/value

This paper is original as it makes use of economic principles to develop a parsimonious model to demonstrate that proactive actions of a firm in response to consumers and stakeholders demands leads to an overall social welfare improvement when negative externalities deriving from production are incorporated into the decision making process of both consumers and firms. These decisions prove superior to government regulations.
CSR narrative under Islamic banking paradigm
Authors: Zafar Muhammad Bilal , Sulaiman Ahmad Azam
Published: January 2020

Purpose

This paper aims to understand corporate social responsibility (CSR) narrative under the Islamic banking paradigm by three aspects, narrative review of the literature, review of the definitions of CSR and review of factors that cause divergence from conventional percepts.

Design/methodology/approach

This is a theoretical paper based on literature and aims to understand the CSR narrative under the paradigm of Islamic banking.

Findings

Religion brings new dimensions of ethics and expands the scope of morality in business. Islamic banking is a new wave of corporation whose social goals are as much important as making profit. There are diverse narrations and definitions prevailing in the literature of CSR under the Islamic paradigm which also encounters the aspects of divergence from conventional percepts. The academic debate of CSR-Islamic banking brings on surface a plausible CSR paradigm, that is to guide the role of Islamic banking in society under the Islamic provisions, ethics and axioms. This paper also paves the way for future direction, particularly in terms of a holistic understanding of CSR narrative under the Islamic banking paradigm.

Research limitations/implications

This is a theoretical paper; it primarily discusses the theoretical aspects of CSR narrative under the paradigm of Islamic banking, while it does not give insight into the empirical narrative or disclosure of CSR in Islamic banking.

Practical implications

The theoretical review of literature brings plausible understanding, that Islamic banking is a new wave of corporate and has standings on divine guidance. The structure of the institution in its foundation insists on real economic activity. The legitimacy of Islamic banking has roots in ethical compliance and in inculcating the broader interests of stakeholders. There are several social responsibilities, which are expected from the practitioners of Islamic banking. The practitioners as well must understand that the CSR of Islamic banking is far beyond the conventional percepts of CSR.

Originality/value

There are several normative and theoretical studies in the domain of CSR-Islamic banking. It is hard to find a comprehensive narrative review of such literature. This review is unique, which brings a holistic understanding of CSR narrative under the Islamic banking paradigm.
Linkage between business sustainability and tacit knowledge management in MSMEs
Authors: Upadhyay Parijat , Kundu Amit
Published: January 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to report the apparent linkage between knowledge management (KM) practices in a semi-structured sector and business sustainability. Micro, small and medium scale enterprises in developing economies are constrained by accessibility to resources and have not been able to reap the benefits of structured KM practices to fine-tune their business processes. Insights derived from business operations of such enterprises can be formalized into relevant knowledge creation. An effective KM can help in revival strategies for many traditional organizations like handloom that operate as a co-operative. Such business has come under immense challenges from new-age organizations in that particular sector. This study reports the brand revival and business sustainability journey of a handloom co-operative through effective knowledge assimilation and dissemination.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper, the authors have assessed the governance of small co-operative units in handloom and their supervision, which pose serious challenges for business sustainability. Their business data pertaining to productivity, sales and income for the period from 1997-1998 to 2015-2016 have been analyzed for business sustainability. A time-series analysis has been done on the above data set to track business sustainability of the handloom co-operative. The findings have been analyzed through a case-based study approach.

Findings

Over a period of one and half-decade, the handloom co-operative has been able to improve its product offering, which, in turn, led to the revival of the brand. Such transformation has resulted in revival of decades old brand through effective knowledge sharing, which is mainly tacit in nature. This case study based paper showcases that despite their inherent constraints, micro, small and medium enterprise organizations (many of which are semi-structured or unstructured in nature) can reap huge benefits by making efforts to put in place an effective KM mechanism.

Originality/value

There are very few reported studies, which have explored the linkage between tacit KM practices and business sustainability. Studies in context to a semi-structured small- and medium-scale enterprises are not available in published literature.
Effect of digestive enzymes on the activity of camel‐milk insulin
Authors: Abou‐Soliman Nagwa H I , Awad Sameh , Desouky Marwa Mohamed
Published: January 2020

This study investigated the effect of digestive enzymes on the activity of camel‐milk insulin. The digestion was performed using the sequential action of pepsin and pancreatin. Proteolysis degree was estimated using the O‐phthaldialdehyde method. Insulin concentration was determined using an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Results revealed that milk proteins were partially digested by pepsin alone and the degradation was increased during the pepsin–pancreatin digestion as compared to control. Insulin lost its activity after 30 min of pepsin digestion, and it was not detected by ELISA. This study strongly suggests that insulin is not responsible for the antidiabetic action of camel's milk.
Nanosilver in dairy applications – Antimicrobial effects on Streptococcus thermophilus and chemical interactions
Authors: Braun Sabrina , Ilberg Vladimir , Blum Uwe , Langowski Horst‐Christian
Published: January 2020

Milk spoilage continues to be a major problem. Incorporation of silver into milk packaging might solve this problem. We evaluated the antimicrobial and chemical effects of silver in milk. Antimicrobial experiments were performed by measuring milk acidification by Streptococcus thermophilus at temperatures of 43, 33 and 23 °C and concentrations of silver nanoparticles at 10, 50, 100 and 200 mg/L. Chemical interactions were investigated using potentiometric measurements. Ag+ interacted with milk constituents. Nanosilver was antimicrobially effective at all temperatures and at 100 mg/L. At least 5 mg/L are required by using AgNO3. Practical use of silver for dairy applications is not expected, due to the required high silver concentrations.
Performance of ICD‐10‐CM diagnosis codes for identifying children with Sickle Cell Anemia
Authors: Reeves Sarah L. , Madden Brian , Wu Meng , Miller Lauren S. , Anders David , Caggana Michele , Cogan Lindsay W. , Kleyn Mary , Hurden Isabel , Freed Gary L. , Dombkowski Kevin J.
Published: January 2020

Objective

To develop, test, and validate the performance of ICD‐10‐CM claims‐based case definitions for identifying children with sickle cell anemia (SCA).

Data Sources

Medicaid administrative claims (2016) for children <18 years with potential SCA (any D57x diagnosis code) and newborn screening records from Michigan and New York State.

Study Design

This study is a secondary data analysis.

Data Collection/Extraction Methods

Using specific SCA‐related (D5700, D5701, and D5702) and nonspecific (D571) diagnosis codes, 23 SCA case definitions were applied to Michigan Medicaid claims (2016) to identify children with SCA. Measures of performance (sensitivity, specificity, area under the ROC curve) were calculated using newborn screening results as the gold standard. A parallel analysis was conducted using New York State Medicaid claims and newborn screening data.

Principal Findings

In Michigan Medicaid, 1597 children had ≥1 D57x claim; 280 (18 percent) were diagnosed with SCA. Measures of performance varied, with sensitivities from 0.02 to 0.97 and specificities from 0.88 to 1.0. The case definition of ≥1 outpatient visit with a SCA‐related or D571 code had the highest area under the ROC curve, with a sensitivity of 95 percent and specificity of 92 percent. The same definition also had the highest performance in New York Medicaid (n = 2454), with a sensitivity of 94 percent and specificity of 86 percent.

Conclusions

Children with SCA can be accurately identified in administrative claims using this straightforward case definition. This methodology can be used to monitor trends and use of health services after transition to ICD‐10‐CM.
CircRNA CDR1as knockdown inhibits progression of non‐small‐cell lung cancer by regulating miR‐219a‐5p/SOX5 axis
Authors: Li Yaming , Zhang Jinzhao , Pan Shuang , Zhou Jing , Diao Xin , Liu Song
Published: January 2020

Background

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) participate in the development of human cancers by regulating multiple cell processes. CircRNA antisense to the cerebellar degeneration‐related protein 1 transcript (circCDR1as) expression is dysregulated in many cancers, including non‐small‐cell lung cancer (NSCLC). However, the mechanism by which circCDR1as mediates the development of NSCLC remains unknown.

Methods

A total of 30 paired cancer and normal tissues were collected from patients with NSCLC. The expression levels of circCDR1as, microRNA (miR)‐219a‐5p and Sex determining region Y‐box protein 5 (SOX5) were measured in tissues or cells by quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction or western blot. Cell viability, apoptosis, migration and invasion were detected by 3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyl‐tetrazolium bromide, colony formation, flow cytometry and transwell assays, respectively. The target relationship between miR‐219a‐5p and circCDR1as or SOX5 was validated by dual‐luciferase reporter assay.

Results

CircCDR1as expression was elevated in NSCLC tissues and cells in comparison to the matched controls. Interference of circCDR1as led to obvious inhibition of cell viability, migration and invasion and increase of apoptosis in NSCLC cells. MiR‐219a‐5p acted as a target of circCDR1as and miR‐219a‐5p downregulation attenuated the regulatory effect of circCDR1as silencing on NSCLC progression. Moreover, miR‐219a‐5p targeted SOX5 to repress the progression of NSCLC in vitro. Besides, circCDR1as knockdown reduced the expression of SOX5 by increasing miR‐219a‐5p level.

Conclusion

Knockdown of circCDR1as inhibited the progression of NSCLC by decreasing cell viability, migration and invasion and increasing apoptosis by upregulating miR‐219a‐5p and downregulating SOX5.
Multiple evolutionary lineages detected in giant reed (Arundo donax L.): Applied and evolutionary perspectives
Authors: Zecca Giovanni , Tommasi Nicola , Grassi Fabrizio
Published: January 2020

Identification of independent evolutionary lineages is a modern challenge for biologists especially in crops with high potential. Molecular methods, usually used to explore intraspecific variation, also offer important information regarding how and when lineages have evolved and spread. Today, several tools to define the demarcation of lineages based on single or multi‐locus data are available, permitting objective results to be obtained. We tested nuclear and plastid loci using five different approaches to delimit the major lineages and estimate the divergence times in giant reed (Arundo donax L.). It is an emerging energy crop, widespread in sub‐tropical and temperate regions but particularly aggressive outside its native range. Our results support the presence of six lineages distributed from the Asian regions to the Mediterranean basin and indicate the western and southern edges of the Qinghai‐Tibet Plateau as the putative area of origin and source of ancient and cryptic lineages. We suppose it could be an area that has fertile populations. These results should be considered in breeding programmes to produce new cultivars, especially because the absence of fertility for Mediterranean giant reed lineages reduces the opportunity of crop improvement. Moreover, the description of multiple lineages and identifying its putative ancestral area may be helpful to researchers working on invasiveness management, phytoremediation programmes and conservation biology.
Associations between prescribed benzodiazepines, overdose death and buprenorphine discontinuation among people receiving buprenorphine
Authors: Park Tae Woo , Larochelle Marc R. , Saitz Richard , Wang Na , Bernson Dana , Walley Alexander Y.
Published: January 2020

Background and Aims

Benzodiazepines are commonly prescribed to patients with opioid use disorder receiving buprenorphine treatment, yet may increase overdose risk. However, prescribed benzodiazepines may improve retention in care by reducing buprenorphine discontinuation and thus may prevent relapse to illicit opioid use. We aimed to test the association between benzodiazepine prescription and fatal opioid overdose, non‐fatal opioid overdose, all‐cause mortality and buprenorphine discontinuation.

Design and Setting

This was a retrospective cohort study using five individually linked data sets from Massachusetts, United States government agencies.

Participants

We studied 63 389 Massachusetts residents aged 18 years or older who received buprenorphine treatment between January 2012 and December 2015.

Measurements

Filled benzodiazepine prescription during buprenorphine treatment was the main independent variable. The primary outcome was time to fatal opioid overdose. Secondary outcomes were time to non‐fatal opioid overdose, all‐cause mortality and buprenorphine discontinuation. We defined buprenorphine discontinuation as having a 30‐day gap without another prescription following the end date of the previous prescription. We used Cox proportional hazards models to calculate hazards ratios that tested the association between receipt of benzodiazepines and all outcomes, restricted to periods during buprenorphine treatment.

Findings

Of the 63 345 individuals who received buprenorphine, 24% filled at least one benzodiazepine prescription during buprenorphine treatment. Thirty‐one per cent of the 183 deaths from opioid overdose occurred when individuals received benzodiazepines during buprenorphine treatment. Benzodiazepine receipt during buprenorphine treatment was associated with an increased risk of fatal opioid overdose adjusted hazard ratio (HR) = 2.92, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 2.10‐4.06, non‐fatal opioid overdose, adjusted HR = 2.05, 95% CI, 1.68‐2.50, all‐cause mortality, adjusted HR = 1.90, 95% CI, 1.48‐2.44 and a decreased risk of buprenorphine discontinuation, adjusted HR = 0.87, 95% CI, 0.85‐0.89.

Conclusions

Benzodiazepine receipt appears to be associated with both increased risk of opioid overdose and all‐cause mortality and decreased risk of buprenorphine discontinuation among people receiving buprenorphine.
Nicotine replacement therapy sampling for smoking cessation within primary care: results from a pragmatic cluster randomized clinical trial
Authors: Carpenter Matthew J. , Wahlquist Amy E. , Dahne Jennifer , Gray Kevin M. , Garrett‐Mayer Elizabeth , Cummings K. Michael , Davis Robert , Egan Brent M.
Published: January 2020

Background and Aims

Within the context of busy clinical settings, health‐care providers need practical, evidence‐based options to engage smokers in quitting. Sampling of nicotine replacement therapy [i.e. provision of nicotine replacement therapy (NRT starter kits)] is a brief, pragmatic strategy to address this need. We aimed to compare the effects of NRT sampling plus standard care (SC), relative to SC alone, provided by primary care providers during routine clinic visits.

Design

Cluster‐randomized clinical trial.

Setting

Twenty‐two primary care clinics in South Carolina, USA.

Participants

Adult smokers [n = 1245; 61% female, mean age = 50.7, standard deviation (SD) = 13.5] both motivated and unmotivated to quit, seen during routine clinical visit. Interventions were provider‐delivered SC (n = 652, 12 clinics) cessation advice or SC + a 2‐week supply of both nicotine patch and lozenge, with minimal instructions on use (n = 593; 10 clinics).

Measurements

The primary outcome was 7‐day point prevalence smoking abstinence at 6‐month follow‐up, using intent‐to‐treat. Additional outcomes included NRT use and quit attempts, assessed at 1, 3 and 6 months following baseline.

Findings

Seven‐day point prevalence abstinence rates were significantly higher in the NRT sampling group throughout follow‐up, including at 6 months [12 versus 8%, odds ratio (OR) = 1.5, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.0–2.4]. NRT sampling increased prevalence of any use of NRT (65 versus 25%, OR = 5.8, 95% CI = 4.3–7.7), with higher prevalence of use at 6 months (25 versus 14%, OR = 2.0, 95% CI = 1.5–2.7). NRT sampling increased the rate of quit attempts in the initial month (24 versus 18%, OR = 1.5, 95% CI = 1.0–2.3) but had no significant effect on overall rate of quit attempts (48 versus 45%, OR = 1.2, 95% CI = 0.8–1.7).

Conclusion

Providing smokers with a free 2‐week starter kit of nicotine replacement therapy increased quit attempts, use of stop smoking medications and smoking abstinence compared with standard care in a primary care setting.
Population dynamics of dasyurid marsupials in dryland Australia: Variation across habitat and time
Authors: Pavey Chris R. , Nano Catherine E. M. , Waltert Matthias
Published: January 2020

The irruptive population dynamics of rodents are a globally renowned wildlife phenomenon; however, the dynamics of other small mammals with which rodents are sympatric are poorly understood. Dryland Australia supports a high diversity of small (<200 g) arthropod‐eating marsupials (Dasyuridae). Here, we test the hypothesis that dasyurid marsupials do not exhibit the same degree of irruptive population dynamics that are shown by rodents. We addressed this question by sampling small mammal assemblages on 20 permanent trapping sites in the Simpson Desert on 20 occasions from 2007 to 2017. Sampling was stratified across three broad habitat types: sandridge, gibber plain and clay plain. We captured 478 dasyurid marsupials of nine species, ranging in mean body mass from 5.75 to 93.50 g, at a capture rate of 1.71 per 100 trap‐nights. Capture rate varied across habitat and over time and the interaction between these two effects was also significant. Capture rate was highest on clay plain (3.35 captures/100 trap‐nights), followed by gibber plain (2.16 captures/100 trap‐nights) and lowest on sand habitat (0.54 captures/100 trap‐nights). Each species had a clear preference for one of the dominant habitat types. Dasyurid assemblages responded to high rainfall pulses in November–December 2008 and January 2015; however, the largest rainfall period in 2010–2011 resulted in very low captures. Likewise, a peak in abundance occurred in April 2008 although it was not preceded by high rainfall. We conclude that, although dasyurid marsupial capture rates varied up to 34 fold during the study period, population changes are not strongly tied to rainfall. Heterothermic physiology in this family, in particular the ability to use daily torpor to save energy, may be central to the decoupling of population dynamics from rainfall‐driven primary productivity.
Uterus transplantation: Perspectives of Australian women with absolute uterine factor infertility regarding desirability and utility
Authors: Pittman Jana , Mogensen Lise , Brännström Mats , Chan Warren , Morrison Natalie
Published: January 2020

Background

Uterus transplantation is an emerging surgical innovation offering the option of genetic and gestational motherhood to women with absolute uterine factor infertility. More than 15 centres worldwide have now commenced clinical trials, but the procedure has not been performed in Australia.

Aim

To explore the awareness, attitudes and perceptions regarding uterus transplantation among Australian women with absolute uterine infertility.

Materials and Methods

An online survey targeting Australian women with absolute uterine factor infertility was performed. Data collected included demographic data, infertility circumstances, considered motherhood options and wellbeing, followed by specific questions regarding uterus transplantation. In total, the participants completed 50 items.

Results

All 57 respondents (90% response rate) indicated awareness of uterus transplantation. Of the women who desired parenthood, more than two‐thirds indicated a strong desire to carry their own child, with an even higher number (80%) endorsing the need for the procedure to be an option in Australia. Which donor model is preferred (deceased or live), requires further exploration.

Conclusion

This study indicates that uterus transplantation is desired by the majority of Australian women with absolute uterine factor infertility. Clinical introduction of uterus transplantation in Australia has strong support from the women who would benefit from the procedure.
Impact of legislative change on waiting time for women accessing surgical abortion services in a rural hospital in the Northern Territory
Authors: Belton Suzanne , McQueen Georgia , Ali Edwina
Published: January 2020

Background

Women face challenges when accessing abortion, including varied legislation and reduced access to services in rural and remote settings. There are limited clinical guidelines in Australia and little information regarding the patient journey, particularly the timeframe between referral to abortion procedure. Legislation reform in the Northern Territory (NT) legalised early medical abortion (EMA) in primary health care, providing an opportunity to review service provision of elective surgical abortion prior to and after these changes.

Aims

To review the waiting time to access abortion, percentage eligible for EMA based on ultrasound gestation alone, percentage of Indigenous women accessing abortion in the NT and the effects of the legislation change.

Materials and Methods

Retrospective audit‐analysed surgical abortion data from 354 patient files who underwent suction curettage of uterus between 2012–2017 in one NT public hospital.

Results

Mean wait‐time ranged from 20 to 22 days in 2012–2016 and dropped to 15 days in 2017 following the law reform. Sixty‐two percent of women waited longer than that in the recommended clinical guidelines. Indigenous women represented approximately 25% of patients accessing surgical abortion services. Average gestation at surgical abortion procedure increased following reform. Prior to reform up to 95% of patients accessing surgical abortion would have been eligible for EMA at time of referral.

Conclusions

Results demonstrate potential for changes in service provision of abortion in the NT with increased choice, patient‐centred care and reduced waiting times. This audit demonstrated the possibility to move the majority of abortion services into primary health care leading to cost savings.
The need for clean air: The way air pollution and climate change affect allergic rhinitis and asthma
Authors: Eguiluz‐Gracia Ibon , Mathioudakis Alexander G. , Bartel Sabine , Vijverberg Susanne J. H. , Fuertes Elaine , Comberiati Pasquale , Cai Yutong Samuel , Tomazic Peter Valentin , Diamant Zuzana , Vestbo Jørgen , Galan Carmen , Hoffmann Barbara
Published: January 2020

Air pollution and climate change have a significant impact on human health and well‐being and contribute to the onset and aggravation of allergic rhinitis and asthma among other chronic respiratory diseases. In Westernized countries, households have experienced a process of increasing insulation and individuals tend to spend most of their time indoors. These sequelae implicate a high exposure to indoor allergens (house dust mites, pets, molds, etc), tobacco smoke, and other pollutants, which have an impact on respiratory health. Outdoor air pollution derived from traffic and other human activities not only has a direct negative effect on human health but also enhances the allergenicity of some plants and contributes to global warming. Climate change modifies the availability and distribution of plant‐ and fungal‐derived allergens and increases the frequency of extreme climate events. This review summarizes the effects of indoor air pollution, outdoor air pollution, and subsequent climate change on asthma and allergic rhinitis in children and adults and addresses the policy adjustments and lifestyle changes required to mitigate their deleterious effects.
Systematic review and meta‐analysis suggest that Kangaroo position protects against apnoea of prematurity
Authors: Montealegre‐Pomar Adriana , Bohorquez Adriana , Charpak Nathalie
Published: January 2020

Aim

The aim of this study was to determine whether the Kangaroo position decreased apnoea events in preterm newborns compared with conventional care in incubator.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review of clinical trials published in English, French, Spanish and Portuguese. A comprehensive literature search was realised until 2017. The main outcome was apnoea events. Data were extracted and combined in a fixed‐effects model. The quality of the evidence was assessed according to the GRADE framework (grading the quality of evidence and the strength of recommendations).

Results

Four original clinical trials were selected. These trials were conducted in India and Nepal, between 2005 and 2016. The systematic review comprised 416 preterm newborns. Three studies were randomised controlled trials and one was quasi‐experimental. Meta‐analysis showed a statistically significant reduction in apnoea episodes (relative risk [RR] 0.41; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.22, 0.78). The result remained significant when only the three clinical trials were analysed (RR 0.43; 95% CI 0.23, 0.83). Quality analysis indicated moderate quality because of lack of an appropriate method of randomisation in one study.

Conclusion

The Kangaroo position could have protective effect against apnoea events in preterm infants, decreasing the associated risk of death or long‐term disability.
New psychoactive substances: Pharmacology influencing UK practice, policy and the law
Authors: Nutt David
Published: January 2020

This review covers the last 20 years of UK drug control policy leading up to the recent Psychoactive Substances Act. It explores policy decision made in relation to MDMA and mephedrone that not only were associated with increased drug harms overall but also had a significant detrimental effect on the UK research base. The new UK legislation on synthetic cannabinoids and other novel psychoactive substances threatens to do the same, showing that there is still much to learn from the decisions of the past. In future input from academic societies such as the BPS could help improve policy evaluation and policy development and so help avoid such problems in the future.
Naltrexone–bupropion (Mysimba) in management of obesity: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of unpublished clinical study reports
Authors: Onakpoya Igho J. , Lee Joseph J. , Mahtani Kamal R. , Aronson Jeffrey K. , Heneghan Carl J.
Published: January 2020

Aims

To compare the benefits and harms of naltrexone–bupropion using evidence from clinical study reports.

Methods

We searched Food and Drug Administration and European Medicines Agency websites, PubMed, and Clinicaltrials.gov (May 2016) to identify pivotal trials; we then sent a freedom of information request to the European Medicines Agency (July 2016). We included pivotal, phase III placebo‐controlled trials. We assessed the risks of bias using the Cochrane criteria, and the quality of the evidence using GRADE. We used a random‐effects model for meta‐analyses.

Results

Over a 27‐month period (July 2016 to August 2018), we received 31 batches of clinical study report documents containing over 65 000 pages of data from 4 pivotal trials (n = 4536). Significantly more participants who took naltrexone–bupropion achieved ≥5% reduction in body weight: risk ratio (RR) = 2.1 (95% confidence interval 1.35–3.28), P = .001, GRADE = low, number needed to treat (NNT) to benefit = 5 (3–17); this represents a 2.53 kg (1.85–3.21) reduction in baseline body weight compared with placebo. Naltrexone–bupropion had significantly beneficial effects on other cardiovascular risk factors; however, the true effect sizes for these are uncertain because of incomplete outcome data. Naltrexone–bupropion significantly increased the risk of adverse events: RR = 1.11 (1.05–1.18, P = .0004, GRADE = low, NNT to harm = 12 7–27); serious adverse events: RR = 1.70 (1.38–2.1, P < .00001, GRADE = moderate, NNT to harm = 21 13–38); and discontinuation because of adverse events: RR = 1.92 (1.65–2.24, P < .00001, GRADE = moderate, NNT to discontinue treatment = 9 8–13).

Conclusions

Naltrexone–bupropion significantly reduces body weight by a small amount but significantly increases the risk of adverse events. A rigorous process of postmarketing surveillance is required.
Eating, sleeping and sexual function disorders in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS): A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Thannickal Aneesa , Brutocao Claire , Alsawas Mouaz , Morrow Allison , Zaiem Feras , Murad Mohammad Hassan , Javed Chattha Asma
Published: January 2020

Purpose

We aim to evaluate the association of PCOS with eating, sleeping and sexual function disorders.

Methods

A comprehensive search including MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, and Scopus through 01 August 2018 was conducted for studies reporting the prevalence of any eating, sleep or sexual function disorders in patients with PCOS. Independent reviewers selected studies and extracted data. A random‐effects model was utilized to generate pooled odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for binary outcomes, and mean difference (MD) and 95% CI for continuous outcomes.

Results

We included 36 studies reporting on 349,529 patients. Compared to women without PCOS, women with PCOS were more likely to have bulimia nervosa (OR 1.37; %CI, 1.17 to 1.60), binge eating (OR 2.95; 95%CI, 1.61 to 5.42), or any eating disorder (OR 1.96; 95% CI 1.18 to 3.24); but not anorexia nervosa (OR 0.92; 95%CI, 0.78 to 1.10). Women with PCOS were more likely to have sleep disorders like hypersomnia (OR 4.39; %CI, 1.07 to 18.07) and obstructive sleep apnoea (OR 10.81; %CI, 2.39 to 48.83). Women with PCOS had lower sexual satisfaction as measured on a visual analogue scale (MD −29.67; 95% CI, −36.97 to −22.37), but no difference in Total Female Sexual Function Index (MD −0.06; 95% CI, −0.51 to 0.38).

Conclusion

PCOS can be associated with an increased risk of eating and sleeping disorders as well as decreased sexual satisfaction. Screening for these disorders in women with PCOS may allow early intervention and improve quality of life.
Palliative treatment of recurrent tracheal pleomorphic adenoma 10 years after segmental resection using the endobronchial shaver
Authors: Karamustafaoglu Yekta Altemur , Yanık Fazlı , Yoruk Yener
Published: January 2020

Objectives

Thoracic surgeons often encounter patients with obstruction of the central airways requiring bronchoscopy to provide an open airway. The endobronchial shaver (Richard Wolf GmbH,Germany) is one of the new devices available for treatment of central airway obstruction. We report a tracheal tumor managed with this device.

Methods

We report the successful use of endobronchial shaver via rigid bronchoscopy to resecte a complex stenosis 77‐year‐old male patient. Patient admitted to our clinic for progressive dyspnea and stridor. The patient’s medical history was cervical collar incision with resection and anastomosis 10 years ago. A mass causing a obstruction of 70% of the tracheal lumen was detected with fiberoptic bronchoscopy. So, we decided to use endobronchial shaver for immediate effect.

Results

Trachea was successfully recanalized with Endobronchial shaver (Richard Wolf GmbH, Germany). The patient was successfully extubated, and his dyspnea was resolved. Histopathologic examination of debris was revealed a tracheal pleomorphic adenoma. Postoperative course was uneventful and there was no evidence of recurrent or stenosis in 5 months of follow‐up.

Conclusion

The Endobronchial shaver is an excellent instrument to manage intrluminal complex stenoses including tumor and granulation tissue with advantages including efficient removal of mass without a need for separate suctioning, coagulation,and limitation in oxygenation.
Using stable isotopes to assess population connectivity in the declining European Turtle Dove (Streptopelia turtur)
Authors: Marx Melanie , Rocha Gregorio , Zehtindjiev Pavel , Peev Strahil , Bakaloudis Dimitris , Metzger Benjamin , Cecere Jacopo G. , Spina Fernando , Cianchetti‐Benedetti Marco , Frahnert Sylke , Gamauf Anita , Voigt Christian C. , Quillfeldt Petra
Published: January 2020

European Turtle Doves (Streptopelia turtur) are long‐distance migrants and have experienced a population decline of more than 78% since 1980. Their conservation depends on refined knowledge of breeding origins and population connectivity. Feathers collected at stopover sites, but molted at breeding grounds, provide an opportunity to assign birds to potential regions of origin using tissue stable hydrogen isotope values and relate those to a European feather hydrogen isoscape. Here, 101 feather samples from 13 different breeding countries were analyzed to calibrate the European hydrogen isoscape and 101 feather samples from Spanish, Italian, Maltese, Greek, and Bulgarian stopovers were assigned to potential regions of origin. The assigned range of origin for all 101 individuals grouped together agreed with known distribution patterns. Bulgarian samples were mostly assigned to Russian areas. Possible origins of Greek, Italian, Maltese, and Spanish samples ranged from central to southern Europe. Individual assignments highlighted four broad regions of origin, corresponding to a cool/humid to hot/dry temperature gradient. Proportions of birds assigned to these regions varied among birds sampled at different stopover sites. Therefore, our results provide important information about population connectivity and may be useful to evaluate possible influences of hunting on Turtle Dove populations.
Content analysis of websites selling alcohol online in Australia
Authors: Colbert Stephanie , Thornton Louise , Richmond Robyn
Published: January 2020

Introduction and Aims

Online alcohol sales have experienced rapid growth in Australia in recent years, averaging 14% annual growth over the last 5 years. This study aims to provide information about the advertised sales and delivery practices of online alcohol retailers in Australia and the potential implications for alcohol‐related harm.

Design and Methods

A cross‐sectional website content analysis of the 65 most visited Australian alcohol delivery websites. Data extracted for content analysis from each of the included websites fell under six broad categories: product range; average prices; promotions and discounting; payment and delivery; age verification methods; and policy statements.

Results

Online alcohol retailers offer a variety of alcohol products cheaply, with around 20% selling a 750 mL bottle of wine for under AUD$5. Most (81.5%) offered discounts for purchasing greater quantities and (89.2%) offered visitors an opportunity to sign up to receive discounts and promotions directly via email. Concerningly, 13.8% of websites allowed customers to purchase alcohol using a ‘buy now, pay later’ scheme such as AfterPay or Zip Pay. Delivery in under two hours was available from 12% of retailers. Most retailers (75.4%) advertised a willingness to leave alcohol unattended at an address.

Discussion and Conclusions

Online alcohol retailers offer a variety of alcohol products cheaply, accompanied by heavy promotions and discounting. Most retailers advertise a willingness to leave alcohol unattended at an address without having verified the purchasers age, which raises concerns about access to minors. Improved regulation of this growing industry in Australia is required. [Colbert S, Thornton L, Richmond R. Content analysis of websites selling alcohol online in Australia. Drug Alcohol Rev 2020]
The effectiveness of felbamate for drug‐resistant infantile spasms
Authors: Lux Andrew
Published: January 2020

This commentary is on the original article by Dozières‐Puyravel et al. on pages 581–586 of this issue.
Calculation of the thermal conductivities of fine‐textured soils based on multiple linear regression and artificial neural networks
Authors: Wen Haiyan , Bi Jun , Guo Ding
Published: January 2020

The thermal conductivity of soils is an important parameter in environment, earth science and engineering applications. A new thermal conductivity model based on the Fredlund and Xing model was proposed to mimic the thermal conductivity of fine‐textured soils from dryness to full saturation. However, the use of a measured thermal conductivity value at a certain saturation to calculate the parameter of the thermal conductivity model reduces the ease of use. Therefore, the objective of this study was to use multiple linear regression (MLR) and artificial neural networks (ANN) to improve the thermal conductivity model. The performances of the MLR‐based model and ANN‐based model were evaluated and compared with measured data and three existing empirical models at different saturation ranges. The results showed that the MLR‐based model and ANN‐based model performed best at low saturations, the ANN‐based model performed best at saturations between 0.01 and 0.6, and the Johansen model showed the best fit to the measured data at saturations of above 0.6. In general, among the models, the ANN‐based model performed best from dryness to full saturation (root mean square error (RMSE) = 0.098 Wm−1K−1and average absolute deviation (AAD) = 0.071 Wm−1K−1), followed by the MLR‐based model (RMSE = 0.110 Wm−1K−1and AAD = 0.081 Wm−1K−1). The MLR‐based model and ANN‐based model are promising for the accurate calculation of the thermal conductivity of fine‐textured soils from dryness to full saturation and can be incorporated into the numerical modelling of heat and mass transfers.

Highlights

The ANN‐based model performed best among five models from dryness to full saturation, followed by the MLR‐based model.

The MLR‐based model and ANN‐based model showed the best fit to the measured data at low saturations.

The ANN‐based model showed the best fit to the measured data at saturations between 0.01 and 0.6.

The Johansen (1975) model showed the best fit to the measured data at saturations of above 0.6.