bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
legislation (nomothesia)
Authors: Canevaro Mirko
Published: June 2016

From the earliest stages, the Greeks understood the distinction between legislation and day-to-day administration. They gave laws a special status and often created specific, separate procedures to enact them. In the Archaic period, specially appointed lawgivers were normally in charge of giving laws to the polis; these laws were intended to be immutable, and their stability secured through entrenchment clauses. Making laws was not considered to be among the normal tasks of the government of the polis, and there were no standard procedures to change the laws once these had been given. Assemblies in Greek city-states often enacted rules that had the force of law, but the legislative changes were not institutionally acknowledged, and the laws enacted by the lawgivers could not be changed. This gave rise to significant problems of legitimacy, and it introduced inconsistencies in the legal system of the polis, a problem that we can observe in 5th-century bce Athens. At the end of the 5th century, the Athenians introduced judicial review to vet new legislation and avoid the introduction of inconsistencies, performed a revision of the laws of the city, and finally institutionalised a distinction between nomoi (“laws,” general permanent norms) and psephismata (“decrees,” ad hoc enactments). They also created a complex new procedure, involving a board of nomothetai, to allow the demos to make new laws and change the existing ones. Similar yet not identical procedures are attested also outside Athens: Hellenistic kings often ordered the appointment of nomothetai or nomographoi to enact rules about political institutions, and nomographoi or nomothetic lawcourts are attested in various cities, with the task of “upgrading” decrees of the demos into laws, and entering them among the laws of the city.
Cervical Spine Clearance in Pediatric Trauma Centers: The Need for Standardization and an Evidence-based Protocol
Authors: Pannu Gurpal S. , Shah Mitesh P. , Herman Marty J.
Published: June 2016

Background:

Cervical spine clearance in the pediatric trauma patient represents a particularly challenging task. Unfortunately, standardized clearance protocols for pediatric cervical clearance are poorly reported in the literature and imaging recommendations demonstrate considerable variability. With the use of a web-based survey, this study aims to define the methods utilized by pediatric trauma centers throughout North America. Specific attention was given to the identification of personnel responsible for cervical spine care, diagnostic imaging modalities used, and the presence or absence of a written pediatric cervical spine clearance protocol.

Methods:

A 10-question electronic survey was given to members of the newly formed Pediatric Cervical Spine Study Group, all of whom are active POSNA members. The survey was submitted via the online service SurveyMonkey (https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/7NVVQZR). The survey assessed the respondent’s institution demographics, such as trauma level and services primarily responsible for consultation and operative management of cervical spine injuries. In addition, respondents were asked to identify the protocols and primary imaging modality used for cervical spine clearance. Finally, respondents were asked if their institution had a documented cervical spine clearance protocol.

Results:

Of the 25 separate institutions evaluated, 21 were designated as level 1 trauma centers. Considerable variation was reported with regards to the primary service responsible for cervical spine clearance. General Surgery/Trauma (44%) is most commonly the primary service, followed by a rotating schedule (33%), Neurosugery (11%), and Orthopaedic Surgery (8%). Spine consults tend to be seen most commonly by a rotating schedule of Orthopaedic Surgery and Neurosurgery. The majority of responding institutions utilize computed tomographic imaging (46%) as the primary imaging modality, whereas 42% of hospitals used x-ray primarily. The remaining institutions reported using a combination of x-ray and computed tomographic imaging. Only 46% of institutions utilize a written, standardized pediatric cervical spine clearance protocol.

Conclusions:

This study demonstrates a striking variability in the use of personnel, imaging modalities and, most importantly, standardized protocol in the evaluation of the pediatric trauma patient with a potential cervical spine injury. Cervical spine clearance protocols have been shown to decrease the incidence of missed injuries, minimize excessive radiation exposure, decrease the time to collar removal, and lower overall associated costs. It is our opinion that development of a task force or multicenter research protocol that incorporates existing evidence-based literature is the next best step in improving the care of children with cervical spine injuries.

Level of Evidence:

Level 4—economic and decision analyses.
Perioperative Interdisciplinary Intervention Contributes to Improved Outcomes of Adolescents Treated With Hip Preservation Surgery
Authors: Richard Heather M. , Nguyen Dylan C. , Podeszwa David A. , De La Rocha Adriana , Sucato Daniel J.
Published: June 2016

Background:

Adolescent hip preservation surgery (HPS) candidates typically present with chronic pain, which can negatively affect psychological function and surgical outcomes. A previous study demonstrated high rates of psychological symptoms and maladaptive behaviors in this population. This study quantified psychological and functional improvements in these patients from preoperative presentation to postoperative follow-up. An integrated interdisciplinary approach is also described.

Methods:

A total of 67 patients undergoing HPS were evaluated preoperatively and postoperatively at 1 year by staff psychologists. Perioperative psychological intervention consisted of education, counseling, and administration of self-report measures. Self-report measure scores were compared preoperatively and postoperatively, grouped by orthopaedic diagnoses. Frequency analysis, correlational analysis, and analysis of variance were conducted.

Results:

Psychological function improved significantly at follow-up: decreased emotional symptomatology (46.1 to 43.6, P=0.013), anxiety (49.6 to 45.8, P<0.001), school problems (46.6 to 44.7, P=0.035), internalizing problems (46.3 to 44.1, P=0.015), social stress (44.5 to 42.3, P=0.024), sense of inadequacy (49.0 to 46.0, P=0.004), and increased self-concept (51.1 to 54.1, P=0.003). Resiliency factors also significantly improved: increased mastery (50.3 to 52.9, P=0.001) and resourcefulness (49.7 to 52.0, P=0.046), decreased emotional reactivity (46.3 to 42.9, P=0.001), and vulnerability (47.7 to 44.7, P=0.011). Physical function and return to activity also significantly improved (University of California—Los Angeles: 7.1 to 8.7, P=0.017; modified Harris Hip Score: 67.3 to 83.8, P<0.001). Return to activity positively correlated with optimism and self-efficacy (P=0.041). Femoroacetabular impingement and hip dysplasia patients consistently reported feeling less depressed (P=0.036), having fewer somatic complaints (P=0.023), fewer internalized problems (P=0.037), and exhibiting fewer atypical behaviors (P=0.036) at follow-up. Slipped capital femoral epiphysis patients did not demonstrate improvements in psychological functioning postoperatively.

Conclusions:

Perioperative psychological education and counseling, in combination with HPS, improved postoperative psychological and physical function. Patients reported reduced anxiety, school problems, and social stress, with marked increase in resilience. Increased mobility and return to activity significantly correlated with improved optimism and self-efficacy.

Level of Evidence:

Level II—therapeutic studies—investigating the results of treatment.
Survivorship of Trabecular Metal Anchored Glenoid Total Shoulder Arthroplasties
Authors: Styron Joseph F. , Marinello Patrick G. , Peers Sebastian , Seitz William H.
Published: June 2016

Trabecular metal anchored glenoids (TMAGs) were developed to counter the pervasive problem of component loosening at the bone-cement interface in total shoulder arthroplasty. Increased failure rates associated with the glenoid component have been previously reported due to increased rates of glenoid failures. Our hypothesis was that in our patients, the failure rate of TMAG implants is similar to or less than reported failure rates of traditional all polyethylene glenoid components. A medical chart review of 66 consecutive patients treated with a TMAG total shoulder replacement was conducted including clinical and radiographic follow-up. Paired t test analyses were used to compare the patients’ preoperative and postoperative shoulder range of motion. Patients on average had 50.2 months of clinical follow-up available. Although the radiographs of several patients demonstrated focal areas of lucency, none of the patients demonstrated evidence of glenoid loosening. Glenoid component failure was a rare occurrence, happening only once in the 66 patients (1.5%). The patient with a glenoid fracture sustained that complication 6 years after her index total shoulder replacement. She was the only patient in the series who required revision surgery. Most patients experienced significant improvements in their shoulder range of motion, improving forward flexion from 73.7 to 144.2 degrees (P<0.0001), internal rotation from L5 to T8 (P<0.0001), and external rotation 12.8 to 48.9 degrees (P<0.0001). With improved implant design and meticulous surgical technique, recent iterations of TMAG components do not produce excessive failure rates but result in significant functional improvements.
Building an endoscopic ear surgery program
Authors: Golub Justin S.
Published: June 2016

Purpose of review

This article discusses background, operative details, and outcomes of endoscopic ear surgery. This information will be helpful for those establishing a new program.

Recent findings

Endoscopic ear surgery is growing in popularity. The ideal benefit is in totally transcanal access that would otherwise require a larger incision. The endoscope carries a number of advantages over the microscope, as well as some disadvantages. Several key maneuvers can minimize disadvantages. There is a paucity of studies directly comparing outcomes between endoscopic and microscopic approaches for the same procedure.

The endoscope is gaining acceptance as a tool for treating otologic diseases. For interested surgeons, this article can help bridge the transition from microscopic to totally transcanal endoscopic ear surgery for appropriate disease.
SMSaúde: Evaluating Mobile Phone Text Reminders to Improve Retention in HIV Care for Patients on Antiretroviral Therapy in Mozambique
Authors: Joseph Davey Dvora , Nhavoto José António , Augusto Orvalho , Ponce Walter , Traca Daila , Nguimfack Alexandre , Palha de Sousa Cesar
Published: June 2016

Objective:

We evaluated whether regular mobile phone text reminders improved patients' retention in antiretroviral therapy (ART) care in Mozambique.

Design:

SMSaúde was a randomized control trial of HIV-infected patients on ART who received regular text message reminder vs. standard of care at 3 public health facilities in Maputo Province, Mozambique. The primary outcome was retention in HIV care. Between November 2011 and March 2012, 830 eligible HIV-infected patients on ART were randomized 1:1 to the text reminder intervention or standard of care.

Methods:

We used Kaplan–Meier estimators and log-rank tests to compare proportions of patients who received SMS reminders who were retained in HIV care compared to the control group who received standard of care. Post hoc analyses were performed using Cox proportional hazards models stratified by urban/rural facility and when initiated ART (≤3 months vs. >3 months). Hazard ratios and confidence intervals (CIs) are reported. Analysis was with intention to treat.

Results:

Patients who received text messages had lower attrition from HIV care at 12 months, though the difference was nonsignificant (RR: 0.68, 95% CI: 0.41 to 1.13). Among urban patients, text messages improved retention in HIV care (RR: 0.54, 95% CI: 0.31 to 0.95). Intervention patients newly initiated on ART (<3 months) had lower attrition than control patients (HR: 0.54; 95% CI: 0.23 to 0.91), especially urban newly initiated patients (HR: 0.20, 95% CI: 0.06 to 0.64). Text messages had no effect on retention among rural patients.

Conclusions:

Text messages did not improve retention in HIV care for all patients on ART but improved retention in care of urban patients and those who recently started ART and received text reminders compared with standard of care.
Novel Partitivirus Infection of Bat White-nose Syndrome (WNS) Fungal PathogenPseudogymnoascus destructansLinks Eurasian and North American Isolates
Authors: Ren Ping , Rajkumar Sunanda S. , Sui Haixin , Masters Paul S. , Martinkova Natalia , Kubátová Alena , Pikula Jiri , Chaturvedi Sudha , Chaturvedi Vishnu
Published: June 2016

Bat White-nose Syndrome (WNS) fungusPseudogymnoascus destructanshad caused mass mortality in the North American bats. A single clone of the pathogen (Hap_1) was likely introduced in the United States while Eurasian population comprised of several haplotypes. The origin and spread ofP. destructansremain enigmatic due in part to a lack of precise population markers. We searched forP. destructansmycoviruses as they are highly host-specific, and their spread could provide a window on the origin of the host fungus. We discovered aP. destructansbipartite virus PdPV-1 with two double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) segments - LS (1,683 bp) and SS (1,524 bp) with motifs similar to viral RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) and putative capsid proteins (CPs), respectively. Both LS and SS ORFs were embedded only in the positive strand of each dsRNA segment. Sequence alignments and phylogenetic analysis suggested that both segments constitute the genome of a new virus similar to the mycoviruses in the familyPartitiviridaegenusGammapartitivirus.Purified viral particles appeared as isometric virions with approximately 33 nm diameters typical of partitiviruses. A newly developed RT-PCR assay revealed that all US isolates and only a few Eurasian isolates were infected with PdPV-1. PdPV-1 wasP. destructans- specific as closely related non-pathogenic fungiP. appendiculatusandP. roseustested negative. Thus, PdPV-1 establishes a link between the Eurasian and North AmericanP. destructans.PdPV-1 could be used as an experimental tool to further investigate fungal biogeography, and the host - pathogen interactions.
Accelerated cryo-EM structure determination with parallelisation using GPUs in RELION-2
Authors: Kimanius Dari , Forsberg Björn O , Scheres Sjors HW , Lindahl Erik
Published: June 2016

By reaching near-atomic resolution for a wide range of specimens, single-particle cryo-EM structure determination is transforming structural biology. However, the necessary calculations come at increased computational costs, introducing a bottleneck that is currently limiting throughput and the development of new methods. Here, we present an implementation of theRELIONimage processing software that uses graphics processors (GPUs) to address the most computationally intensive steps of its cryo-EM structure determination workflow. Both image classification and high-resolution refinement have been accelerated up to 40-fold, and template-based particle selection has been accelerated almost 1000-fold on desktop hardware. Memory requirements on GPUs have been reduced to fit widely available hard-ware, and we show that the use of single precision arithmetic does not adversely affect results. This enables high-resolution cryo-EM structure determination in a matter of days on a single workstation.
Voodoo Machine Learning for Clinical Predictions
Authors: Saeb Sohrab , Lonini Luca , Jayaraman Arun , Mohr David C. , Kording Konrad P.
Published: June 2016

The availability of smartphone and wearable sensor technology is leading to a rapid accumulation of human subject data, and machine learning is emerging as a technique to map that data into clinical predictions. As machine learning algorithms are increasingly used to support clinical decision making, it is important to reliably quantify their prediction accuracy. Cross-validation is the standard approach for evaluating the accuracy of such algorithms; however, several cross-validations methods exist and only some of them are statistically meaningful. Here we compared two popular cross-validation methods: record-wise and subject-wise. Using both a publicly available dataset and a simulation, we found that record-wise cross-validation often massively overestimates the prediction accuracy of the algorithms. We also found that this erroneous method is used by almost half of the retrieved studies that used accelerometers, wearable sensors, or smartphones to predict clinical outcomes. As we move towards an era of machine learning based diagnosis and treatment, using proper methods to evaluate their accuracy is crucial, as erroneous results can mislead both clinicians and data scientists.
The Precision Medicine Knowledge Base: an online application for collaborative editing, maintenance and sharing of structured clinical-grade cancer mutations interpretations
Authors: Huang Linda , Fernandes Helen , Zia Hamid , Tavassoli Peyman , Rennert Hanna , Pisapia David , Imielinski Marcin , Sboner Andrea , Rubin Mark A. , Kluk Michael , Elemento Olivier
Published: June 2016

Objective

This paper describes the Precision Medicine Knowledge Base (PMKB;https://pmkb.weill.cornell.edu), an interactive online application for collaborative editing, maintenance and sharing of structured clinical-grade cancer mutations interpretations.

Materials and Methods

PMKB was built using the Ruby on Rails Web application framework. Leveraging existing standards such as Human Genome Variation Society (HGVS) variant description format, we implemented a data model that links variants to tumor-specific and tissue-specific interpretations. Key features of PMKB include support for all major variant types, standardized authentication, distinct user roles including high-level approvers, detailed activity history. A REpresentational State Transfer (REST) application-programming interface (API) was implemented to query the PMKB programmatically.

Results

At the time of writing, PMKB contains 457 variant descriptions with 281 clinical-grade interpretations. The EGFR, BRAF, KRAS, and KIT genes are associated with the largest numbers of interpretable variants. The PMKB’s interpretations have been used in over 1,500 AmpliSeq tests and 750 whole exome sequencing tests. The interpretations are accessed either directly via the Web interface or programmatically via the existing API.

Discussion

An accurate and up-to-date knowledge base of genomic alterations of clinical significance is critical to the success of precision medicine programs. The open-access, programmatically accessible PMKB represents an important attempt at creating such a resource in the field of oncology.

Conclusion

The PMKB was designed to help collect and maintain clinical-grade mutation interpretations and facilitates reporting for clinical cancer genomic testing. The PMKB was also designed to enable the creation of clinical cancer genomics automated reporting pipelines via an API.
Interplay of cis and trans mechanisms driving transcription factor binding and gene expression evolution
Authors: Wong Emily S , Schmitt Bianca M , Kazachenka Anastasiya , Thybert David , Redmond Aisling , Connor Frances , Rayner Tim F. , Feig Christine , Ferguson-Smith Anne C. , Marioni John C , Odom Duncan T , Flicek Paul
Published: June 2016

Noncoding regulatory variants play a central role in the genetics of human diseases and in evolution. Here we measure allele-specific transcription factor binding occupancy of three liver-specific transcription factors between crosses of two inbred mouse strains to elucidate the regulatory mechanisms underlying transcription factor binding variations in mammals. Our results highlight the pre-eminence of cis-acting variants on transcription factor occupancy divergence. Transcription factor binding differences linked to cis-acting variants generally exhibit additive inheritance, while those linked to trans-acting variants are most often dominantly inherited. Cis-acting variants lead to local coordination of transcription factor occupancies that decay with distance; distal coordination is also observed and may be modulated by long-range chromatin contacts. Our results reveal the regulatory mechanisms that interplay to drive transcription factor occupancy, chromatin state, and gene expression in complex mammalian cell states.
A portable light-delivery device forin situphotocrystallographic experiments in the home laboratory
Authors: Kamiński Radosław , Jarzembska Katarzyna N. , Kutyła Sylwia E. , Kamiński Marek
Published: June 2016

Photocrystallographic experiments provide valuable information on how crystalline samples interact with light, yielding light-induced structural changes. Studied processes include, among others, solid state chemical reactions, as well as isolation and characterization of various metastable states. Thus, some instrumentation development efforts in the field have been dedicated to facilitating such experiments using a home X-ray source. In this contribution, a portable, easy-to-use and adjustable light-delivery device for home single-crystal diffractometers is described. The whole system consists of adjustable laser-focusing optics and a holder, which can be conveniently attached to a goniometer, as an additional sample conditioning device. The light-delivery device was designed to reduce any goniometer movement limitations. It allows one to conveniently perform photocrystallographic experiments without violation of the X-ray safety protocols, even when changing the light source is necessary. Testin situphotocrystallographic experiments performed on the literature-reported Ni(NO2)2(dppe) complex [dppe is bis(diphenylphosphino)ethane] confirm the effectiveness and applicability of the device for conducting linkage isomer single-crystal-to-single-crystal transformations.
Dragonfly: an implementation of the expand–maximize–compress algorithm for single-particle imaging
Authors: Ayyer Kartik , Lan Ti-Yen , Elser Veit , Loh N. Duane
Published: June 2016

Single-particle imaging (SPI) with X-ray free-electron lasers has the potential to change fundamentally how biomacromolecules are imaged. The structure would be derived from millions of diffraction patterns, each from a different copy of the macromolecule before it is torn apart by radiation damage. The challenges posed by the resultant data stream are staggering: millions of incomplete, noisy and un-oriented patterns have to be computationally assembled into a three-dimensional intensity map and then phase reconstructed. In this paper, theDragonflysoftware package is described, based on a parallel implementation of the expand–maximize–compress reconstruction algorithm that is well suited for this task. Auxiliary modules to simulate SPI data streams are also included to assess the feasibility of proposed SPI experiments at the Linac Coherent Light Source, Stanford, California, USA.
Toward a framework of improving horizontal and social accountability mechanisms
Authors: Ankamah Samuel S.
Published: June 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to develop a conceptual framework for improving the interaction between horizontal and social accountability mechanisms for enhanced accountability outcomes.

Design/methodology/approach

– This is a conceptual paper drawing on six published anti-corruption cases in the Asian region and in theory to develop a framework for understanding and improving the interaction between horizontal and social accountability mechanisms.

Findings

– The paper proposes that to have more improved interactions between horizontal and social accountability mechanisms, any or all of the following eight conditions must be met. These include, independence and capacity of horizontal accountability agencies; legal backing for horizontal and social accountability interaction; vibrant and independent media; strong partnership of civil society with the media for information dissemination; organisation of civil society into groups; credibility of horizontal and social accountability mechanisms; capacity of civil society (including human and financial capacity); horizontal accountability mechanisms to support and motivate social mechanism to “blow the alarm”.

Originality/value

– The conceptual framework developed in this paper makes a significant contribution to the accountability literature. In terms of policy, this framework can serve as a tool for governments, especially in Asia, seeking good governance through enhanced accountability outcomes.
US policy toward Taiwan
Authors: Bush Richard Clarence
Published: June 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to explore how the USA seeks to promote its interests in peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait in the context of Taiwan’s unique political status and its democratic system.

Design/methodology/approach

– A narrative analysis examines the recent history of Taiwan’s democratic development and USA responses to it.

Findings

– The USA has responded in various ways to the dilemma of respecting the outcomes of elections in friendly democracies while protecting its own interests in peace and security. This was easy during the Ma Ying-jeou administration (2008-2016) but it is likely to become more difficult following Taiwan’s presidential election in January 2016.

Originality/value

– This study draws on personal experience and an in-depth understanding of Taiwan politics and US diplomacy.
Building management system for sustainable built environment in Sri Lanka
Authors: Kumara W.H.C.D , Waidyasekara K.G.A.S. , Weerasinghe R.P.N.P.
Published: June 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to investigate the contribution of building management system (BMS) towards a sustainable built environment.

Design/methodology/approach

– The paper is based on the findings of a comprehensive literature survey, preliminary survey and a structured questionnaire survey. Quantitative data were analysed using a relative importance index. Content analysis was used for the qualitative data analysis.

Findings

– The results show that identifying user requirements, identifying BMS features, designing BMS, installation and commissioning, and operation and maintenance are the key steps in the BMS implementation process. High cost, lack of knowledge on BMS, unavailability of service and maintenance, and inadequate performance of BMS vendors were highlighted as barriers when adopting a BMS. Energy efficiency, reduction of operation and maintenance cost, occupant satisfaction, productivity, fault diagnosis, thermal comfort, indoor air quality, emergency response and level of controllability of building systems are some of the significant BMS functions that accomplish economic, environment and social sustainability pillars.

Practical implications

– This study increases the awareness on functionality of a BMS and its potential contribution towards a sustainable built environment.

Originality/value

– The study develops strong ties between BMS contribution and sustainability where built environment professionals could use the developed decision support model towards a sustainable built environment through the application of BMS.
Task-based defect management: anatomical classification
Authors: Almusharraf Abdullah , Whyte Andrew
Published: June 2016

Purpose

– Studies on the construction defects and quality deviations have been commissioned and published in many countries, showing the global status of the issues related with construction defects. Therefore, the quality of the adapted practices in construction projects can be improved if the pattern of the sub-task, specifically the quality deviations and construction defects from the requirements and specifications is identified and understood. The purpose of this paper is to improve understanding of the behavior and pattern of the more sensitivity sub-task requirements (STRs) through the anatomy process of a particular task.

Design/methodology/approach

– Six criteria have been classified for the levels of the estimated STRs quality deviations. The proposed study classifications were examined through the 3,030 cases of 17 STRs from compression concrete members (i.e. column).

Findings

– Most of the STRs were found to be prone to deviations and the sensitivities of the STRs toward deviations and defects are varied across all STRs. The study reveals that three of the 17 STRs were observed as perfect works, ten STRs as acceptable works and four STRs as defective works.

Originality/value

– The study found that the sub-task deviation patterns cannot be generalized and must be individually studied to recommend the appropriate proactive measures.
Delivering sustainable communities: a case study in China
Authors: Xia Bo , Wu Tian , Skitmore Martin , Chen Qing , Li Mei , Zuo Jian
Published: June 2016

Purpose

– China’s accelerated urbanisation leads directly to pressure on the urban environment. The purpose of this paper is to identify best practices involved in a real sustainable community projects for the experience to be replicated in future.

Design/methodology/approach

– To explore the practical development experiences and technological applications, a case study was conducted, involving both document analysis and semi-structured interviews.

Findings

– The findings identify the green technologies and strategies used in the project planning and design process. The social considerations of the project development are also recognised in providing comfort, convenience and safety for their residents. Furthermore, the research highlights the fact that sustainable communities can incur less operational costs compared with traditional ones and therefore provide a feasible option for clients with a greater capability for upfront investment.

Originality/value

– The results of the research provide valuable references for developers in the development of sustainable communities in both China and other countries.
Change management framework to enable sustainable outsourcing of facilities management services
Authors: Sridarran Pournima , Fernando Nirodha Gayani
Published: June 2016

Purpose

– In this present globalised era, outsourcing has become a very popular and much sought after procurement strategy for facilities management (FM). Generally, a sustainable procurement system should be capable enough to deliver the services free of disruptions. However, outsourcing can bring about changes in working patterns, organisational culture and management styles which can possibly disrupt the activities of an organisation. In order to avoid such disruptions, organisations need to adopt a measured approach towards this change. Accordingly, the purpose of this paper is to investigate the importance of change management to enable sustainable outsourcing of FM services.

Design/methodology/approach

– Within commercial building context, the questions of “why change is not managed during outsourcing of FM services” and “how can it be managed” are investigated through case studies.

Findings

– Organisations encountered various disagreements due to inadequate management of change during outsourcing. If the changes emanating from outsourcing are not managed satisfactorily, it would result in possible disruptions. However, to make changes happen successfully is one of the most challenging tasks faced by the leadership and corporate management of the organisations.

Originality/value

– In order to facilitate the practitioners in the industry, this paper finally offers a framework for change management during outsourcing based on the findings.
Impact of political, guanxi ties on corporate value
Authors: Shi Yidan , Cheng Ming
Published: June 2016

Purpose

Guanxi is an influential factor of doing business in China. This research focuses on a specific guanxi type, political connection and studies the impact of political connection on corporate value. Moreover, in the technology innovation studies, few studies have examined the impact of politics on technology innovation of firm. This paper aims to examine the relations among political connection, technology innovation and corporate value by an empirical study.

Design/methodology/approach

A sample of listed technology-intensive firms in China is used. This research examines the impact of political connection and technology innovation on corporate value with two dimensions, namely, the owner type of firm and the political connection level of firm.

Findings

Based on an empirical study, this research has four main findings. First, technology innovation has positive impact on corporate value. Second, compared to non-connected firms, politically connected firms value more. Third, political connection to a government of higher administrative level contributes more to corporate value. Finally, the relations among political connection, technology innovation and corporate value differ by the owner type of firm.

Originality/value

This research contributes to the study of guanxi by considering the specific guanxi type, political connection, as well as to the study of technology innovation by considering the impact of politics.
Factors to affect improvement in cyber officer performance
Authors: Helkala Kirsi , Knox Benjamin , Jøsok Øyvind , Knox Silje , Lund Mass
Published: June 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate how motivation – gained by understanding the purpose of specific cyber-oriented tasks – coping strategies and level of physical conditioning can affect cognitive abilities amongst cyber officer cadets.

Design/methodology/approach

Two cognitive tests (2014 and 2015) and coping strategy questionnaires (2015) were conducted during an annual military exercise involving increased levels of stress and hardship (physical and cognitive) over a sustained two-week period.

Findings

Motivation – gained by task explanations – and the conscious use of the “control” strategy can have a positive effect on individual performance in cyber tasks.

Research limitations/implications

The participants were all young adults with higher-than-average levels of physical fitness. From the outset, all participants were highly motivated and disciplined having entered cyber officer training after successfully completing a thorough selection process.

Practical implications

The results of this study are to be better implemented to the activities at the military academy.

Social implications

The closest civilian occupational equivalent is a computer network operations (CNO)-operator. The findings could be implemented into their daily work routines.

Originality/value

Cognitive tests used in this study are based on recognized general cognitive tests. However, modifications were made to suit the cyber task context, making the test original. The cyber officer is a contemporary concept currently lacking research.
Attention and past behavior, not security knowledge, modulate users’ decisions to login to insecure websites
Authors: Kelley Timothy , Bertenthal Bennett I.
Published: June 2016

Purpose

Modern browsers are designed to inform users as to whether it is secure to login to a website, but most users are not aware of this information and even those who are sometimes ignore it. This study aims to assess users’ knowledge of security warnings communicated via browser indicators and the likelihood that their online decision-making adheres to this knowledge.

Design/methodology/approach

Participants from Amazon’s Mechanical Turk visited a series of secure and insecure websites and decided as quickly and as accurately as possible whether it was safe to login. An online survey was then used to assess their knowledge of information security.

Findings

Knowledge of information security was not necessarily a good predictor of decisions regarding whether to sign-in to a website. Moreover, these decisions were modulated by attention to security indicators, familiarity of the website and psychosocial stress induced by bonus payments determined by response times and accuracy.

Practical implications

Even individuals with security knowledge are unable to draw the necessary conclusions about digital risks when browsing the web. Users are being educated through daily use to ignore recommended security indicators.

Originality/value

This study represents a new way to entice participants into risky behavior by monetizing both speed and accuracy. This approach could be broadly useful as a way to study risky environments without placing participants at risk.
Comparing the information security culture of employees who had read the information security policy and those who had not
Authors: Da Veiga Adéle
Published: June 2016

Purpose

This study aims, firstly, to determine what influence the information security policy has on the information security culture by comparing the culture of employees who read the policy to those who do not, and, secondly, whether a stronger information security culture is embedded over time if more employees have read the information security policy.

Design/methodology/approach

An empirical study is conducted at four intervals over eight years across 12 countries using a validated information security culture assessment (ISCA) questionnaire.

Findings

The overall information security culture average scores as well as individual statements for all four survey assessments were significantly more positive for employees who had read the information security policy compared with employees who had not. The overall information security culture also improved from one assessment to the next.

Research limitations/implications

The information security culture should be measured and benchmarked over time to monitor change and identify and prioritise actions to improve the information security culture. If employees read the information security policy, it has a positive influence on the information security culture of an organisation.

Practical implications

Organisations should ensure that employees have read the information security policy to aid in minimising the human risk, related errors and incidents and, ultimately, to instil a stronger information security culture with a higher level of compliant behaviour.

Originality/value

This research confirms theoretical research indicating that the information security policy could influence the information security culture positively. It provides novel and statistical evidence illustrating that if employees read the information security policy, they have a stronger information security culture and that the culture can be improved through targeted interventions using an ISCA.
Information technology and diffusion in the New Zealand public health sector
Authors: Nath Nirmala , Hu YuanYuan , Budge Chris
Published: June 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to identify the influential agents that led to the successful acceptance and diffusion of the Concerto clinical workstation at the Northern District Health Board.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper draws on Rogers’ diffusion of innovation theory to interpret and analyse the factors that enabled acceptance and successful implementation of the innovative Concerto clinical workstation.

Findings

The authors conclude that human factors (clinicians) and non-human factors (the software package) simultaneously influenced the ready acceptance of the innovation. The reason for the positive acceptance and full diffusion of Concerto as compared to iHealth is the increased functionality it offers and its ability to provide clinicians with comprehensive patient records over a period of time, which assists in making informed decisions regarding the treatment, discharge, hospitalisation and recommendations for the future well-being of patients.

Research limitations/implications

The study focused on only one district health board (DHB); therefore, the outcomes may not be representative of all DHBs.

Practical implications

The study has practical implications for clinicians, DHB members and public health regulators. The outcomes illuminate the “agents” that positively influenced the diffusion of Concerto. The regulators and the DHBs can use this as a benchmark to determine how to lead the successful diffusion of information technology (IT) innovation in the public health sector.

Social implications

The impact on society is evident in the paper, as the use of an innovation, such as Concerto, saves time taken by clinicians to make more informed decisions regarding their patient care.

Originality/value

This study contributes to new knowledge by investigating the diffusion process of IT innovation with an intention of establishing the factors that enabled this process.
The social consequences of control: accounting for indentured labour in Fiji 1879-1920
Authors: Sharma Umesh , Irvine Helen
Published: June 2016

Purpose

This is a study of the social consequences of accounting controls over labour. This paper aims to examine the system of tasking used to control Indian indentured workers in the historical context of Fijian sugar plantations during the British colonial period from 1879 to 1920.

Design/methodology/approach

Archival data consisting of documents from the Colonial Secretary’s Office, reports and related literature on Indian indentured labour were accessed from the National Archives of Fiji. In addition, documented accounts of the experiences of indentured labourers over the period of the study gave voice to the social costs of the indenture system, highlighting the social impact of accounting control systems.

Findings

Accounting and management controls were developed to extract surplus value from Indian labour. The practice of tasking was implemented in a plantation structure where indentured labourers were controlled hierarchically. This resulted in their exploitation and consequent economic, social and racial marginalisation.

Research limitations/implications

Like all historical research, our interpretation is limited by the availability of archival documents and the theoretical framework chosen to examine these documents.

Practical implications

The study promotes a better understanding of the practice and impact of accounting controls within a particular institutional setting, in this case the British colony of Fiji.

Social implications

By highlighting the social implications of accounting controls in their historical context, we alert corporations, government policy makers, accountants and workers to the socially damaging effects of exploitive management control systems.

Originality/value

The paper contributes to the growing body of literature highlighting the social effects of accounting control systems. It exposes the social costs borne by indentured workers employed on Fijian sugar plantations.
Optimal space filling for additive manufacturing
Authors: Kapil Sajan , Joshi Prathamesh , Yagani Hari Vithasth , Rana Dhirendra , Kulkarni Pravin Milind , Kumar Ranjeet , Karunakaran K.P.
Published: June 2016

Purpose

In additive manufacturing (AM) process, the physical properties of the products made by fractal toolpaths are better as compared to those made by conventional toolpaths. Also, it is desirable to minimize the number of tool retractions. The purpose of this study is to describe three different methods to generate fractal-based computer numerical control (CNC) toolpath for area filling of a closed curve with minimum or zero tool retractions.

Design/methodology/approach

This work describes three different methods to generate fractal-based CNC toolpath for area filling of a closed curve with minimum or zero tool retractions. In the first method, a large fractal square is placed over the outer boundary and then rest of the unwanted curve is trimmed out. To reduce the number of retractions, ends of the trimmed toolpath are connected in such a way that overlapping within the existing toolpath is avoided. In the second method, the trimming of the fractal is similar to the first method but the ends of trimmed toolpath are connected such that the overlapping is found at the boundaries only. The toolpath in the third method is a combination of fractal and zigzag curves. This toolpath is capable of filling a given connected area in a single pass without any tool retraction and toolpath overlap within a tolerance value equal to stepover of the toolpath.

Findings

The generated toolpath has several applications in AM and constant Z-height surface finishing. Experiments have been performed to verify the toolpath by depositing material by hybrid layered manufacturing process.

Research limitations/implications

Third toolpath method is suitable for the hybrid layered manufacturing process only because the toolpath overlapping tolerance may not be enough for other AM processes.

Originality/value

Development of a CNC toolpath for AM specifically hybrid layered manufacturing which can completely fill any arbitrary connected area in single pass while maintaining a constant stepover.
Theoretical and experimental study on surface roughness of 316L stainless steel metal parts obtained through selective laser melting
Authors: Wang Di , Liu Yang , Yang Yongqiang , Xiao Dongming
Published: June 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide a theoretical foundation for improving the selective laser melting (SLM) surface roughness. To improve the part’s surface quality during SLM process, the upper surface roughness of SLM parts was theoretically studied and the influencing factors were analyzed through experiments.

Design/methodology/approach

The characteristics of single track were first investigated, and based on the analysis of single track, theoretical value of the upper surface roughness would be calculated. Two groups of cubic sample were fabricated to validate SLM parts’ surface roughness, the Ra and relative density of all the cubic parts was measured, and the difference between theoretical calculation and experiment results was studied. Then, the effect of laser energy density on surface roughness was studied. At last, the SLM part’s surface was improved by laser re-melting method. At the end of this paper, the curved surface roughness was discussed briefly.

Findings

The SLM upper surface roughness is affected by the width of track, scan space and the thickness of powder layer. Measured surface roughness Ra value was about 50 per cent greater than the theoretical value. The laser energy density has a great influence on the SLM fabrication quality. Different laser energy density corresponds to different fabricating characteristics. This study divided the SLM fabrication into not completely melting zone, balling zone in low energy density, successfully fabricating zone and excessive melting zone. The laser surface re-melting (LSR) process can improve the surface roughness of SLM parts greatly without considering the fabricating time and stress accumulation.

Originality/value

The upper surface roughness of SLM parts was theoretically studied, and the influencing factors were analyzed together; also, the LSR process was proven to be effective to improve the surface quality. This study provides a theoretical foundation to improve the surface quality of SLM parts to promote the popularization and application of metal additive manufacturing technology.