bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lymphocyte-to-Monocyte Ratio May Serve as a Better Prognostic Indicator Than Tumor-associated Macrophages in DLBCL Treated With Rituximab
Authors: Matsuki Eri , Bohn Olga L. , El Jamal Siraj , Pichardo Janine D. , Zelenetz Andrew D. , Younes Anas , Teruya-Feldstein Julie
Published: August 2018

There are multiple prognostic indicators for diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) including the international prognostic index (IPI), and gene expression profiling (GEP) to classify the disease into germinal center B-cell and activated B-cell subtypes, the latter harboring inferior prognosis. More recently, tumor-associated macrophages (TAM) and lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio (LMR) were found to have prognostic implications in DLBCL. However, consensus is yet to be reached in terms of the significance of each. In this study, we evaluated the prognostic value of TAM as assessed by CD163 or CD68 positivity by immunohistochemistry on tissue biopsies and LMR was calculated from peripheral blood differential, with focus on the inclusion of rituximab as a treatment modality. The number of CD68-positive cells in the tumor microenvironment did not exhibit significant prognostic value, whereas higher number of CD163-positive cells was associated with inferior overall survival in patients treated with chemotherapy alone. This effect was no longer evident in patients treated with rituximab containing chemoimmunotherapy. In contrast, the prognostic significance of LMR on survival was more persistent regardless of treatment. There was no association between LMR and the number of CD163-positive cells. Our results suggest that LMR is the more easily and widely available prognostic marker in this era of chemoimmunotherapy. Our finding supports previous literature that the effect of TAM can vary according to treatment. Interaction between rituximab and TAM warrant further scientific investigation for mechanistic insights into targeted therapeutics.
Predictors of Severe Clinical Course in Children With Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Authors: Akcan Yildiz Leman , Gultekingil Ayse , Kesici Selman , Bayrakci Benan , Teksam Ozlem
Published: August 2018

Objective

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a gas, which is produced by incomplete combustion of hydrocarbon-containing substances, and causes significant tissue and organ damage in the common event of CO poisoning. This study aims to evaluate the demographic, clinical, and laboratory characteristics of patients diagnosed with CO poisoning in the emergency department and to determine the factors associated with severe course in the acute phase of poisoning.

Methods

A total of 331 patients diagnosed with CO poisoning in Hacettepe University Children's Hospital, Pediatric Emergency Unit, between January 2004 and March 2014 were included in the study. Their demographic characteristics, presenting complaints, physical examination findings, Glasgow Coma Scale scores, carboxyhemoglobin, leukocyte, hemoglobin, troponin T, pH and lactate levels, type of treatment (normobaric or hyperbaric oxygen), intensive care unit admissions, and outcome of poisoning were investigated.

Results

Ninety-three patients were given hyperbaric oxygen. Fifty-one patients were admitted to the pediatric intensive care unit, 18 patients have had a severe clinical course, and 6 patients have died. The risk factors associated with severe disease course were determined to be low Glasgow Coma Scale score, high leukocyte count, and high troponin T levels at presentation.

Conclusions

Glasgow Coma Scale score, leukocyte count, and troponin T level may be beneficial in predicting clinical outcomes and tailoring therapy in children with CO poisoning.
A Randomized Single-Blinded Simulation-Based Trial of a Novel Method for Fluid Administration to a Septic Infant
Authors: Kline Matthew , Crispino Lauren , Bhatnagar Ambika , Panchal Rajavee A. , Auerbach Marc
Published: August 2018

Objectives

For children presenting in shock, American College of Critical Care Medicine guidelines recommend 3 boluses of intravenous fluids during initial resuscitation, but these are often not met. This study aims to compare a novel device LifeFlow, to established manual methods for rapid fluid delivery in a simulated environment.

Method

This single-blinded randomized trial was conducted in a level 1 pediatric trauma center emergency department. Fifty-four participants were paired and randomized to one of the following methods: push/pull, pressure bag, or LifeFlow. The teams were presented with a standardized simulation-based case and asked to resuscitate a 10-kg patient in decompensated shock. We used a demographic survey to study provider variables, recordings of the simulation and fluid delivery to independently establish rate and accuracy, and the National Aeronautical and Space Administration Task Load Index to assess workload.

Result

All 54 participants completed the assigned tasks, and no significant differences were found among the demographics of participants. The primary outcome (mean rate of fluid administration) differed significantly between the 3 techniques, LifeFlow being the fastest (65.29 mL/min). The composite National Aeronautical and Space Administration Task Load Index score (30; P = 0.184) was lowest for the LifeFlow. Significant differences were seen among the correlation coefficient comparing the estimated to the actual volume of fluid for each method, pressure bag being the highest (0.66), followed by push-pull (0.54) and LifeFlow (0.31).

Conclusions

LifeFlow allowed for faster fluid administration rate and thus could be the preferred technique for rapid fluid resuscitation in pediatrics patients. Further investigations should explore the reproducibility of these results using this device in real patients in multiple centers.
Veterinary-Prescribed Buprenorphine Ingestion in a 2-Year-Old Girl
Authors: Roberts Kristin J. , Tomasi Suzanne , Stull VMD Jason W. , McKenzie Lara B. , Spiller Henry A.
Published: August 2018

Introduction

Ingestion of buprenorphine by young children is on the rise and can lead to life-threatening consequences and death. Exposure most often occurs when a child acquires the medication intended for adult use. However, buprenorphine is also prescribed by veterinarians and may be sent home, typically in non–child-resistant packaging, to be administered to the family pet.

Case

A previously healthy 2-year-old girl weighing 11.36 kg was found with a 1-mL syringe containing 0.6 mg/mL of buprenorphine in her mouth. The syringe had been in a plastic bag provided to the family by their veterinarian for the family dog. She was hospitalized for 24 hours but remained asymptomatic and was discharged healthy. This type of exposure to buprenorphine has not previously been described in the literature.

Conclusions

Having this unsecured medication in the home increases the potential risk of exposure for young children and associated health consequences. Pediatricians should be aware of the potential dangers that veterinary pharmaceuticals can pose and educate parents about proper storage of medications. In addition, veterinarians should take extra precautions when dispensing these medications to pet owners with children.
Demonstration of Tubercular “Abdominal Cocoon” (Sclerosing Encapsulating Peritonitis) in 18F-FDG PET/CT
Authors: Vadi Shelvin Kumar , Mittal Bhagwant Rai , Parihar Ashwin Singh , Kumar Rajender , Sharma Vishal , Mandavdhare Harshal S.
Published: August 2018

Sclerosing encapsulating peritonitis also called as abdominal cocoon is a less understood condition mostly due to idiopathic causes and sometimes secondary to tuberculosis or peritoneal dialysis. This report describes the typical features of “abdominal cocoon” on 18F-FDG PET/CT in a young woman, which was later diagnosed to be secondary to tuberculosis. Because the early features of this unusual entity are often nonspecific, high clinical suspicion along with understanding of the typical radiological/PET/CT features of this intriguing entity may guide the physician in ruling out the secondary treatable causes like tuberculosis, as noted in the index case.
Prevention of Earlobe Keloid Recurrence After Excision: Assessment of the Value of Presurgical Injection of Triamcinolone
Authors: Aluko-Olokun Bayo , Olaitan Ademola A. , Morgan Regina E. , Adediran Olanrewaju Moses
Published: August 2018

The ear is commonly involved in keloid formation, being often pierced. This study estimates the value of pre-excision triamcinolone injection of earlobe keloid, by comparing recurrence rates in patients who only received postexcision triamcinolone injection to those who had it administered before and after excision.

The prospective intervention study involved 18 keloid lesions in as many consenting patients who presented with pedunculated earlobe keloid from January 2005 to January 2007.

Triamcinolone doses were administered 10 mg/cm of lesion or sutured excision site. Each patient was followed-up for 10 years. Aggregate length of keloid lesions at presentation was 24.4 cm in Group A and 26.5 cm in Group B. Aggregate length of postexcision sutured wound in Group A was 16.1 cm, and 14.8 cm in Group B. Group A patients received a total of 1610 mg of triamcinolone, while a total of 4660 mg of same drug was administered to Group B patients, among whom 3180 mg was delivered presurgically. Total number of clinic visits during the course of treatment in Group A was 10, while that of Group B was 22. No patient with recurrent keloid was recorded in both groups.

The authors concluded that there is no advantage to presurgical injection of triamcinolone when excision is considered as part of treatment protocol of a keloid lesion. This study helps to eliminate an ostensibly needless part of a commonly used treatment protocol.
A Modified Pre-Auricular Approach in the Treatment of Orbital Zygomatic Maxillary Complex Fractures
Authors: Tang Weiwei , Zhu Huimin , Li Zhengkang , Deng Yuan
Published: August 2018

Objective:

This study aimed to evaluate the safety of a modified pre-aricular approach in the treatment of orbital zygomatic maxillary complex fractures.

Methods:

This was a retrospective study of clinical data from 108 adults who were diagnosed with orbital zygomatic maxillary complex fractures and undergo open reduction and internal fixation through a modified pre-auricular approach. Exophthalmometry and limitation of extraocular muscle movement were determined using a Hertel exophthalmometer or synoptophore examination respectively. Primary complications were recorded, and postoperative facial nerve injury was tested by electrophysiologic analysis.

Results:

All patients received satisfied functional and cosmetic results at least 6 moths postoperatively. There were 2 cases (1.85%) involving complete or incomplete facial nerve injury confirmed by electrophysiologic analysis. The incidence of other postoperative complications including a hematoma rate of 1.85% patients and permanent hypesthesia or paresthesia in 2.78% of patients, and no cases of clinically significant temporal hollowing, alopecia, infection, or unacceptable scars encountered during a mean follow-up period of 2 years.

Conclusion:

A modified pre-auricular approach with dissection deep to the temporalis fascia offers a safe and reliable surgical technique for accessing the malar arch in orbital zygomatic maxillary complex fractures.
Part I: Minimum Quality Threshold in Preclinical Sepsis Studies (MQTiPSS) for Study Design and Humane Modeling Endpoints
Authors: Zingarelli Basilia , Coopersmith Craig M. , Drechsler Susanne , Efron Philip , Marshall John C. , Moldawer Lyle , Wiersinga W. Joost , Xiao Xianzhong , Osuchowski Marcin F. , Thiemermann Christoph
Published: August 2018

Preclinical animal studies are mandatory before new treatments can be tested in clinical trials. However, their use in developing new therapies for sepsis has been controversial because of limitations of the models and inconsistencies with the clinical conditions. In consideration of the revised definition for clinical sepsis and septic shock (Sepsis-3), a Wiggers-Bernard Conference was held in Vienna in May 2017 to propose standardized guidelines on preclinical sepsis modeling. The participants conducted a literature review of 260 most highly cited scientific articles on sepsis models published between 2003 and 2012. The review showed, for example, that mice were used in 79% and euthanasia criteria were defined in 9% of the studies. Part I of this report details the recommendations for study design and humane modeling endpoints that should be addressed in sepsis models. The first recommendation is that survival follow-up should reflect the clinical time course of the infectious agent used in the sepsis model. Furthermore, it is recommended that therapeutic interventions should be initiated after the septic insult replicating clinical care. To define an unbiased and reproducible association between a new treatment and outcome, a randomization and blinding of treatments as well as inclusion of all methodological details in scientific publications is essential. In all preclinical sepsis studies, the high standards of animal welfare must be implemented. Therefore, development and validation of specific criteria for monitoring pain and distress, and euthanasia of septic animals, as well as the use of analgesics are recommended. A set of four considerations is also proposed to enhance translation potential of sepsis models. Relevant biological variables and comorbidities should be included in the study design and sepsis modeling should be extended to mammalian species other than rodents. In addition, the need for source control (in case of a defined infection focus) should be considered. These recommendations and considerations are proposed as “best practices” for animal models of sepsis that should be implemented.
Birth in High Infant Mortality States and Dementia Risk in a Cohort of Elderly African American and White Health Care Members
Authors: Gilsanz Paola , Mayeda Elizabeth Rose , Glymour M.Maria , Quesenberry Charles P. , Mungas Dan , DeCarli Charles S. , Whitmer Rachel A.
Published: August 2018

Importance:

Birth in areas with high infant mortality rates (IMRs) has been linked to worse long-term health outcomes, yet it is completely unknown if it impacts dementia risk.

Methods:

In total 6268 health care members were followed for dementia diagnosis from 1996 to 2015. Birth state IMRs from 1928 were ranked into quartile (worst IMRs quartile range, whites: 69 to 129 deaths/1000 live births, Non-whites: 129 to 277 deaths/1000 live births). Cox proportional hazard models estimated the dementia risk associated with birth state IMR quartile adjusting for demographics and lifecourse health indicators.

Results:

Compared with whites born outside of states in the worst IMR quartile, African Americans born in states in the worst IMR quartile had 92% increased dementia risk (HR=1.92; 95% CI: 1.42, 2.59), and African Americans born outside those states had 36% increased risk (HR=1.36; 95% CI: 1.20, 1.53). There was no association between birth state IMR and dementia risk among whites.

Conclusions:

Birth in states with the highest rates of infant mortality was associated with elevated dementia risk among African Americans but not whites. The large absolute difference in IMRs likely reflects harsher early childhood conditions experienced by African Americans. These findings suggest that childhood conditions may play a role in racial disparities in dementia rates.
Bis(triphenylphosphine)iminium tetrafluoroborate chloroform monosolvate
Authors: Manandhar Rachana , Rath Nigam P. , Jones Myron W.
Published: August 2018

In the title compound, C36H30NP2
+·BF4
−·CHCl3 or [PPN]BF4·CHCl3, where [PPN] = [(Ph3P)2N]+, two triphenylphosphine units are attached to a central N atom. The P—N—P bond angle is 137.69 (11)°. The two P—N bonds are nearly equivalent, with lengths of 1.5834 (18) and 1.5798 (17) Å. Both the BF4
− anion and the chloroform solvent molecule are disordered over two positions, with occupancy ratios of 0.872 (3):0.128 (3) and 0.9628 (9):0.0372 (9), respectively. In the crystal, C—H...F and C—H...Cl hydrogen bonds link the [PPN]+ cations, the BF4
− anions, and the chloroform solvent molecules into an array which extends along the b-axis direction.
Long-term monitoring of zinc corrosion behavior in typical hot and dry atmosphere environment in Turpan, China
Authors: Kang Chunhui , Kong Decheng , Yao JiZheng , Guo Chunyun , Wang Li , Xiao K. , Dong C.F.
Published: August 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate the corrosion behavior of zinc in a typical hot and dry atmosphere. It proposes the dynamic corrosion for different exposure periods. Results can provide the basic data and corrosion mechanism of zinc in such environment.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper, the authors investigated the corrosion behavior of pure zinc exposed in the typical hot and dry environment in Turpan for one-four years, which has never been studied. Scanning electron microscopy, laser scanning confocal microscopy, electron probe micro-analyzer (EPMA), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) were conducted to measure the corrosion morphology and products of zinc. Finally, combining electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and scanning Kelvin probe techniques, the corrosion mechanism of zinc in Turpan was examined.

Findings

The thickness loss of the zinc followed an exponential law with respect to exposure time: D = 3.17 t0.61, and both of the rust layer resistance and the charge transfer resistance increased with exposure time. The corrosion products mainly comprised ZnO, Zn(OH)2, Zn5(CO3)2(OH)6, Zn4SO4(OH)6·5H2O and Zn12(SO4)3Cl3(OH)15·5H2O. The Kelvin potentials shifted toward the positive direction from −0.380 to −0.262 V (vs saturated calomel electrode [SCE]) when the exposure time extended from one to four years and the distribution of the corrosion products became more and more uniform.

Originality/value

The corrosion behavior of pure zinc in the typical hot and dry environment in Turpan has not been studied. The dynamic corrosion for different exposure periods was obtained. The corrosion products were systemically investigated via energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, EPMA, XPS and XRD.
Effects of agricultural credit on wheat productivity of small farms in Sindh, Pakistan
Authors: Chandio Abbas Ali , Jiang Yuansheng , Wei Feng , Guangshun Xu
Published: August 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the impact of short-term loan (STL) vs long-term loan (LTL) on wheat productivity of small farms in Sindh, Pakistan.

Design/methodology/approach

The econometric estimation is based on cross-sectional data collected in 2016 from 18 villages in three districts, i.e. Shikarpur, Sukkur and Shaheed Benazirabad, Sindh, Pakistan. The sample data set consist of 180 wheat farmers. The collected data were analyzed through different econometric techniques like Cobb–Douglas production function and Instrumental variables (two-stage least squares) approach.

Findings

This study reconfirmed that agricultural credit has a positive and highly significant effect on wheat productivity, while the short-term loan has a stronger effect on wheat productivity than the long-term loan. The reasons behind the phenomenon may be the significantly higher usage of agricultural inputs like seeds of improved variety and fertilizers which can be transformed into the wheat yield in the same year. However, the LTL users have significantly higher investments in land preparation, irrigation and plant protection, which may lead to higher wheat production in the coming years.

Research limitations/implications

In the present study, only those wheat farmers were considered who obtained agricultural loans from formal financial institutions like Zarai Taraqiati Bank Limited and Khushhali Bank. However, in the rural areas of Sindh, Pakistan, a considerable proportion of small-scale farmers take credit from informal financial channels. Therefore future researchers should consider the informal credits as well.

Originality/value

This is the first paper to examine the effects of agricultural credit on wheat productivity of small farms in Sindh, Pakistan. This paper will be an important addition to the emerging literature regarding effects of credit studies.
Enhancing intention to stay among software professionals
Authors: Gupta Arti , Singh Vrijendra
Published: August 2018

Purpose

Despite the importance of employees’ perception of organizational justice and its impact on intention to stay, various loopholes have been identified that do not justify this relationship. The purpose of this paper is to posit a model, which postulates the effect of procedural and interactional justice on distributive justice, which further impact employees’ intention to stay. Subsequently, it also investigates the mediating role of employees’ affective commitment.

Design/methodology/approach

A questionnaire was prepared and a survey was conducted on 500 junior and middle-level software professionals. Structural equation modeling was employed to examine the proposed model.

Findings

The study concludes the positive effect of distributive, procedural and interactional justice on employees’ intention to stay. Moreover, the addition of affective commitment as a mediator, displayed an indirect influence of organizational justice on intention to stay.

Research limitations/implications

This study proposes a model to boost organizational justice to encourage employees’ intention to stay in an organization. Furthermore, considering the role of organizational commitment in enhancing intention to stay would be fruitful to the stakeholders in the IT industry.

Originality/value

No study has been reported in the context of the role of organizational justice on intention to stay while testing the contribution of affective commitment as a mediator, within a single framework. This study elucidates the influence of distributive, procedural and interactional justice on employees’ intention to stay in IT organizations.
Phase-based analysis of key cost and schedule performance causes and preventive strategies
Authors: Habibi Mohammadreza , Kermanshachi Sharareh
Published: August 2018

Purpose

It is estimated that more than half of the construction industry’s projects encounter significant cost overruns and major delays, resulting in the industry having a tarnished reputation. Therefore, it is crucial to identify key project cost and schedule performance factors. However, despite the attempts of numerous researchers, their results have been inconsistent. Most of the literature has focused solely on the construction phase budget and time overruns; the engineering/design and procurement phase costs and schedule performances have been rarely studied. The paper aims to discuss these issues.

Design/methodology/approach

The objective of this study was primarily to identify and prioritize engineering, procurement and construction key performance factors (KPFs) and to strategize ways to prevent performance delays and cost overruns. To achieve these objectives, more than 200 peer-reviewed journal papers, conference proceedings and other scholarly publications were studied and categorized based on industry type, physical location, data collection and analysis methods.

Findings

It was concluded that both the time required to complete engineering/construction phases and the cost of completing them can be significantly affected by design changes. The two main causes of delays and cost overruns in the procurement phase are construction material shortages and price fluctuations. Other factors affecting all phases of the project are poor economic condition, equipment and labor shortages, delays in owners’ timely decision making, poor communication between stakeholders, poor site management and supervision, clients’ financial issues and severe weather conditions. A list of phase-based strategies which address the issue of time/cost overruns is presented herein.

Originality/value

The findings of this study address the potential confusion of the industry’s practitioners related to the inconsistent list of potential KPFs and their preventive measurements, and pave the way for the construction research community to conduct future performance-related studies.
“Advocacy cheating”: teacher noncompliance in standardised literacy testing
Authors: Johnson Lauren
Published: August 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore teachers’ noncompliance with secondary-level standardised literacy testing in Tasmania, Australia, particularly their motivations, behaviours and justifications. This paper challenges pervasive views regarding test noncompliance, suggesting a reframing as “advocacy cheating”: noncompliance for purposes of advocating for and supporting students.

Design/methodology/approach

The research used a single case study design, with a simple thematic analysis of the qualitative data. The design enabled data to be collected during one iteration of the examined test regime, with depth of exploration into participants’ experiences and perspectives.

Findings

Findings indicate that small number of participants were engaged in test rule noncompliance at all stages of the testing regime: before, during and following the tests. This paper presents the concept of “advocacy cheating”, illustrated in these data through the motivations presented by participants for their noncompliant actions and the forms of noncompliance used.

Research limitations/implications

The small sample size and single site problematise drawing much broader comparisons. The age of the data means that current test processes and requirements have developed. Larger-scale studies might enable identification of ways in which this current regime has and might be improved.

Practical implications

This study’s findings and its focus on the classroom and teacher experience of testing provide insights into a widely debated and publicly important phenomenon.

Originality/value

The concept of “advocacy cheating” provides a newer way of considering and interpreting the range of ways in which teachers implement standardised tests.
Extending the theory of planned behavior to understand consumers’ intentions to visit green hotels in the Chinese context
Authors: Wang Jing , Wang Shanyong , Wang Yu , Li Jun , Zhao Dingtao
Published: August 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to explore the intention of consumers to visit green hotels in China through the theory of planned behavior (TPB) extended by adding perceived consumer effectiveness and environmental concern.

Design/methodology/approach

The TPB model is used as the basic theoretical framework but is extended by adding two critical variables. Data is collected from 324 respondents by using a self-administered questionnaire survey and analyzed with the assistance of structural equation modeling.

Findings

The empirical results show that perceived consumer effectiveness and environmental concern have positive effects on the attitude and the intention of consumers to visit green hotels, and that perceived consumer effectiveness has the largest effect. However, in China, the impact of environmental concern on the intention of consumers to visit green hotels is relatively limited, and the subjective norm has a strong effect. In addition, this research verifies the usefulness of the extended TPB model in understanding the intention of consumers in green hotels industry in China. This is evidenced by a comparison of the initial TPB model with the extended TPB model where the explanatory power has improved from 65 to 68 per cent.

Originality/value

This research contributes to TPB theory by addressing certain gaps in the literature regarding the intention of consumers to visit green hotels in China. Furthermore, considering the limitations of the TPB model, two pro-social variables, namely, perceived consumer effectiveness and environmental concern, are incorporated into the TPB model to better understand the intention of consumers to visit green hotels. Also, this research addresses the gap that studies on the role of perceived consumer effectiveness are limited in the tourism and hospitality management literature. The results indicate that perceived consumer effectiveness has the largest influence on the intention of consumers to visit green hotels.
Determination of human thermal comfort due to moisture permeability of clothes
Authors: Ongwuttiwat Krittiya , Sudprasert Sudaporn , Leephakpreeda Thananchai
Published: August 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present the determination of human thermal comfort with wearing clothes, with different water vapor permeability. Currently, the predicted mean vote (PMV) equation is widely used to determine thermal sensation scales of human comfort. However, moisture permeability of clothes has been not taken in account where the heat is lost from a human body due to water vapor diffusion through clothes.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, the heat loss is derived based on the real structure of textiles, causing water vapor pressure difference between air on skin and ambient air. The PMV equation is modified to differentiate a thermal sensation scale of comfort although patterns of clothes are the same. Interview tests are investigated with wearing clothes from three types of textiles: knitted polyester, coated nylon–spandex, and polyurethane, under various air conditions.

Findings

The moisture permeabilities of knitted polyester, coated nylon–spandex and polyurethane are 16.57×10−9 kg/m2 s•kPa, 9.15×10−9 kg/m2•s•kPa and 2.99×10−9 kg/m2•s•kPa, respectively. The interviews reveal that most people wearing knitted-polyester clothes have the greatest cold sensations under various air conditions since moisture permeability is the highest, compared to coated nylon–spandex, and polyurethane leather. Correspondingly, the predicted results of the modified PMV equation are close to the actual mean votes of interviewees with a coefficient of determination R2=0.83. On the other hand, the coefficient of determination from the predicted results of the conventional PMV equation is significantly lower than unity, with R2=0.42.

Practical implications

In practice, this quantitative determination on human thermal comfort gives some concrete recommendations on textile selection of clothes for acceptable satisfaction of thermal comfort under various surrounding conditions of usage.

Originality/value

The modified PMV equation effectively determines human comfort on a thermal sensation scale due to the moisture permeability of clothes. To make generic conclusion, experimental results of additional three textiles, such as plain weave/lining polyester, knitted spandex, and open structure polyester, are reported. They confirm that the modified PMV equation effectively determines human comfort on a thermal sensation scale due to the moisture permeability of clothes.
Operations flow effectiveness: a systems approach to measuring flow performance
Authors: Afy-Shararah Mohamed , Rich Nicholas
Published: August 2018

Purpose

Effective operations management systems (OMS) measurement remains a critical issue for theorists and practising managers (Neely, 2005; Bititciet al., 2012). Traditional labor efficiency measures sufficed when all that was made could be sold or when mass production systems filled warehouses with stock and the OMS had little relationship with “the consumer.” Modern manufacturing systems require a different form of flow optimization (beyond labor efficiency) measurement (Schmenner, 2015). The essential unit of measure for all OMS designs is the optimal use of time for process value adding and the flow of materials into and from the conversion process. Timely flow, therefore, satisfies the needs of multiple organizational stakeholders including cash flow (accounting), consumer reaction times (marketing) and the general steady state flow of materials (sales and supply chain). The purpose of this paper is to present the results of testing a new performance measure of operations flow effectiveness (OFE) with ten purposively selected cases.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is theory building using ten, purposively selected, longitudinal case studies drawn from the UK high-value manufacturing (HVM) sector using a pluralist methodology of interviews, observation and secondary data.

Findings

The OFE measure provides a holistic view of material flow through the input-process-output cycles of a firm. The measure highlights OMS design weaknesses and flow inhibitors that reduce cash flow using a time-based approach to measuring OMS performance. The study validates the OFE measure and has identified six key design elements that enable high flow performance.

Originality/value

The paper tests a new process-focused flow performance measure. The measure supports a holistic approach to the manufacturing enterprise and allows different OMS designs to be evaluated so that organizational learning may be enacted to support performance improvement.
Nonfarm enterprise participation and healthcare expenditure among farm households in rural Ghana
Authors: Ampaw Samuel , Nketiah-Amponsah Edward , Owoo Nkechi Srodah , Senadza Bernardin
Published: August 2018

Purpose

Rural poverty remains high in many developing countries, Ghana inclusive. This has implications for healthcare affordability and utilization, and thus the attainment of universal health coverage. Nonfarm diversification is seen as a means by which rural farm households can increase incomes and smooth consumption including healthcare. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the impact of nonfarm enterprise participation on healthcare expenditure among farm households in rural Ghana.

Design/methodology/approach

Using nationally representative household data from the sixth round of the Ghana Living Standards Survey (GLSS 6), the paper employs endogenous switching regression and propensity score matching techniques to account for potential selectivity bias.

Findings

Results indicate that households that participate in nonfarm enterprises earn higher incomes and expend more on healthcare. Total household income and region of residence are significant determinants of healthcare expenditure among farm households in rural Ghana. In addition, while in nonfarm enterprise nonparticipating households the marital status of the head of household is important, for participating households the head having at least secondary education significantly influences healthcare expenditure.

Practical implications

Promoting nonfarm activities and hence raising the incomes of households in rural areas of Ghana has the potential of increasing health capital through increased investments in health. It will also positively impact access to and utilization of healthcare and ultimately contribute towards increased farm and non-farm productivity.

Originality/value

Previous studies have only examined the determinants of nonfarm enterprise participation or its impact on household welfare, poverty, inequality, food security and agricultural investments. While evidence abounds on the positive impact of rural nonfarm enterprise participation on household income, which in turn has implications for household health expenditure, the potential positive link between rural nonfarm enterprise participation and household healthcare expenditure remains unexamined.
The difficulties faced by lalas in China in securing defamilisation and familisation
Authors: Yu Wai Kam , Liu Emma Hongshuo , Lo Iris Po Yee
Published: August 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to focus on the difficulties faced by women with same-sex desire (commonly known as “lalas”) in China in securing defamilisation and familisation. It has two objectives – to show the challenges lalas face in organizing their life in interaction with the family, work economy and government; and to discuss how these challenges make women with same-sex desire difficult to secure defamilisation and familisation. Familisation refers to the extent to which people’s participation in the family is increased; whereas defamilisation refers to the extent to which people’s participation in the family is reduced.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors conducted literature review and in-depth interviews with 20 Chinese women with same-sex desire in Beijing to collect and analyze data for fulfilling the two objectives.

Findings

Lalas face serious challenges in their daily lives – they receive insufficient support from the government, work economy and family in organizing their life and their freedom is constrained by these three sectors. These challenges render lalas difficult to achieve several types of defamilisation/familisation (the “carer,” “care receiver,” “provider of financial support” and “receiver of financial support”).

Originality/value

Few defamilisation and familisation studies focus on women with same-sex desire. No studies on defamilisation and familisation of lalas in China have been done before. With the focus on lalas, the paper discovers new causes of the difficulties in securing defamilisation/familisation, and possible solutions to these difficulties.
The effects of human-game interaction, network externalities, and motivations on players’ use of mobile casual games
Authors: Molinillo Sebastian , Muñoz-Leiva Francisco , Pérez-García Fátima
Published: August 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to empirically examine the factors that influence the acceptance and use of mobile casual games.

Design/methodology/approach

A theoretical model is proposed based on the theory of reasonable action, the uses and gratifications theory, the network externalities (NEs) paradigm and the human–computer interaction literature. An empirical study was conducted through an online survey of mobile casual gamers in Spain, using a convenience sample. The proposed model was tested by an analysis of the collected data through a structural equation model using the partial least squares method.

Findings

The results indicate that human–mobile game interaction and NEs have a significant indirect impact on intention to play (IP), through utilitarian, hedonic and relational motivations. In addition, the full mediation effect of attitude was found between these constructs and IP, which is a very important determinant of actual use.

Originality/value

This study is among the few that focuses on users’ acceptance of mobile games apps, the features of which differ significantly from personal computer and console games. It highlights the effects of human–game interaction and NEs on the adoption of mobile casual games. Hence, the study contributes to the theoretical and practical understanding of the factors that lead users to adopt an entertainment mobile application.
The influence of the attributes of “Internet of Things” products on functional and emotional experiences of purchase intention
Authors: Pinochet Luis Hernan Contreras , Lopes Evandro Luiz , Srulzon Caio Henrique Fernandes , Onusic Luciana Massaro
Published: August 2018

Purpose

“Internet of things” is a broad term used to describe network connectivity to physical objects. Called connectable or smart objects, they are embedded in electronic circuits and software that make them capable of detecting, collecting and transmitting data and information. This paper aims to examine the influence of the attributes of “internet of things” products in the functional and emotional experience of purchase intention.

Design/methodology/approach

The study used a model adapted from Yaping et al. (2014), with adjustment for the constructs “emotional experience”, “functional experience” and “purchase intention”. The survey consisted of a sample of 747 valid questionnaires regarding users of “internet of things” products, through a structured questionnaire with 36 assertions, which were answered based on the Likert scale. The quantitative research approach followed an exploratory descriptive phase followed by the application of structural equation modeling.

Findings

Results validated most of the relationships of the model, with high levels of significance. In addition, there was a greater influence of emotional experience than functional on purchase intention for the selected sample, which mainly consisted of young people.

Originality/value

In short, the study confirmed the statistical significance of the structural paths, indicating that the proposed model is consistent, and with an appropriate adjustment can be applied in future research.
Hot-line assembly strategy for connection fittings in 110kV intelligent substation
Authors: Tang Mingdong , Gu Youlin , Wang Shigang , Liang Qinghua , Wang Xiaoxi
Published: August 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide a safe control strategy for aloft hot-line assembly of connection fittings in 110kV intelligent substations, which is significant to research on hot-line working robots.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper addresses challenges of the task and establish the contact models of connection fittings. By using this control strategy, neither high precision vision positioning nor preset global reference coordinate system is required. Visual computing only needs to provide an approximately position for the manipulator end-effector, after which the connection fittings assembly task could be completed with the posture of the manipulator adjusted following the guidance by force-position control. The authors also analyze the influence of the intervention of manipulators on the very non-uniform electric field during the operation.

Findings

This strategy will be particularly useful for the hot-line assembly of connection fittings in 110kV intelligent substations as well as some assembly tasks where uncertain target position and complex contact surface such as cylindrical hole is involved.

Practical implications

This assembly strategy is tested in energized simulated experimental system. The experiment results show that the robot can replace the manual operation to complete the assembly task safely and efficiently.

Originality/value

This assembly strategy is able to achieve the assembly task of connection fittings. Unlike other peg-in-hole assembly strategy, it does not require high stability of manipulator or plane contact surface around the hole.
Model specification issues in PLS-SEM
Authors: Kumar Deepak S. , Purani Keyoor
Published: August 2018

Purpose

Prior research in tourism and hospitality domain calls for closer attention to model specification when using partial least square-structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM), including the choice of software and algorithm for PLS model estimation. This paper aims to illustrate the significance of choosing appropriate algorithms for testing the nature of relationships by comparing findings using two different PLS-SEM software packages.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a field experiment, relationships between visual servicescape aesthetics and affective responses are conceptualized based on literature in environmental psychology and marketing domains. With photographic surrogates as stimuli in two different hospitality service contexts – spa and upscale restaurant – data are collected from 350 respondents.

Findings

By comparing results of SmartPLS 3.2 and WarpPLS 5.0 software and theoretical understanding from environmental psychology literature, it is illustrated that the results and their interpretations may not be in line with theory if model specifications are not correctly implemented and are not addressed through usage of software with a relevant algorithm to test them.

Originality/value

The study highlights the implications for model specification issues such as type of variables and nature of relationships that tourism and hospitality researchers often face and also how use of appropriate algorithms can overcome limitations of model testing for complex models and provide empirical rigor to support theory.
Accelerated testing for automated vehicles safety evaluation in cut-in scenarios based on importance sampling, genetic algorithm and simulation applications
Authors: Xu Yiming , Zou Yajie , Sun Jian
Published: August 2018

Purpose

It would take billions of miles’ field road testing to demonstrate that the safety of automated vehicle is statistically significantly higher than the safety of human driving because that the accident of vehicle is rare event.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper proposes an accelerated testing method for automated vehicles safety evaluation based on improved importance sampling (IS) techniques. Taking the typical cut-in scenario as example, the proposed method extracts the critical variables of the scenario. Then, the distributions of critical variables are statistically fitted. The genetic algorithm is used to calculate the optimal IS parameters by solving an optimization problem. Considering the error of distribution fitting, the result is modified so that it can accurately reveal the safety benefits of automated vehicles in the real world.

Findings

Based on the naturalistic driving data in Shanghai, the proposed method is validated by simulation. The result shows that compared with the existing methods, the proposed method improves the test efficiency by 35 per cent, and the accuracy of accelerated test result is increased by 23 per cent.

Originality/value

This paper has three contributions. First, the genetic algorithm is used to calculate IS parameters, which improves the efficiency of test. Second, the result of test is modified by the error correction parameter, which improves the accuracy of test result. Third, typical high-risk cut-in scenarios in China are analyzed, and the proposed method is validated by simulation.
Conflict-induced forced CEO turnover and firm performance
Authors: Pukthuanthong Kuntara , Ullah Saif , Walker Thomas J. , Zhang Jing
Published: August 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine operational and stock performance changes around forced CEO turnovers caused by conflicts between corporate boards and CEOs over the strategic direction of the firm. In addition, the authors investigate whether changes in performance can be explained by board, CEO, or firm characteristics.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors apply propensity score matching to choose matching firms that do not forced CEO turnover but have similar characteristics with the sample firms. The authors compare their operating and stock performances. The authors apply both univariate analysis and multivariate regression analyses.

Findings

The authors find that the CEO turnovers caused by conflicts between corporate boards and CEOs over the strategic direction of the firms tend to be preceded by significant declines in a firm’s operating and stock performance and that corporate performance improves after turnovers. In addition, the authors find that an increase in long-term incentives and firm size and a decrease in turnover improve firm performance.

Originality/value

While the existing corporate governance literature emphasizes oversight as the main role of the board of directors and identifies the CEO as the leader who sets the strategic direction of the firm, in cases of conflict-induced forced CEO turnover, it is the board that sets the strategic direction. This paper is the first to provide evidence regarding the implications of conflict-induced forced CEO turnovers.