bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pelvic Exenteration Surgery: The Evolution of Radical Surgical Techniques for Advanced and Recurrent Pelvic Malignancy
Authors: Brown Kilian G.M. , Solomon Michael J. , Koh Cherry E.
Published: June 2017

Pelvic exenteration was first described by Alexander Brunschwig in 1948 in New York as a palliative procedure for recurrent carcinoma of the cervix. Because of initially high rates of morbidity and mortality, the practice of this ultraradical operation was largely confined to a small number of American centers for most of the 20th century. The post-World War II era saw advances in anaesthesia, blood transfusion, and intensive care medicine that would facilitate the evolution of more radical and heroic abdominal and pelvic surgery. In the last 3 decades, pelvic exenteration has continued to evolve into one of the most important treatments for locally advanced and recurrent rectal cancer. This review aimed to explore the evolution of pelvic exenteration surgery and to identify the pioneering surgeons, seminal articles, and novel techniques that have led to its current status as the procedure of choice for locally advanced and recurrent rectal cancer.
Mesenteric Lymphadenectomy in Well-Differentiated Appendiceal Neuroendocrine Tumors
Authors: Raoof Mustafa , Dumitra Sinziana , O’Leary Michael P. , Singh Gagandeep , Fong Yuman , Lee Byrne
Published: June 2017

BACKGROUND:

Surgical resection is the primary therapy for local and locally advanced appendiceal neuroendocrine tumors. The role of mesenteric lymphadenectomy in these patients is undefined.

OBJECTIVE:

The purpose of this study was to define the role and prognostic significance of mesenteric lymphadenectomy.

DESIGN:

This was a retrospective, observational study.

SETTINGS:

A population-based cohort from the National Cancer Institute Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results registry (January 1988 to November 2013) was used.

PATIENTS:

Patients with well-differentiated neuroendocrine tumors and nonmixed histologies undergoing surgical resection were included.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES:

The risk of lymph node metastases as a function of tumor size and overall survival with respect to lymph node count and tumor size was measured. Lymph node cut-point was determined using the Contal and O’Quigely method.

RESULTS:

Of the 573 patients who met the inclusion criteria, 64% were women, 79% were white, and 76% were <60 years of age. Seventy percent of the tumors were ≤2 cm, and 77% were lymph node negative. Median lymph nodes retrieved were 0 (interquartile range, 0–14). The probability of nodal metastases was 2.7% in tumors ≤1.0 cm, 31.0% in tumors 1.1 to 2.0 cm, and 64.0% in tumors >2.0 cm. The probability of a positive lymph node increased with increasing lymph node count up to 26 lymph nodes. An ideal cut-point of 12 lymph nodes was identified by statistical modeling. After adjustment in the multivariable model, the group with 12 or fewer lymph nodes examined had significantly worse overall survival (HR = 4.33 (95% CI, 1.54–12.15); p = 0.005; 5-year survival, 88% versus 96%) than the group with more than 12 lymph nodes examined.

LIMITATIONS:

Analysis was limited by the variables available in the database.

CONCLUSIONS:

This is the largest study to date that looks at prognostic significance of lymph node count for well-differentiated appendiceal neuroendocrine tumors. Overall survival was worse where 12 or fewer lymph nodes were identified for tumors >1 cm. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/A352.
Characterization of the discriminative stimulus effects of 3,4-methylenedioxypyrovalerone in male Sprague-Dawley rats
Authors: Berquist Michael D. , Baker Lisa E.
Published: June 2017

Recreational use of 3,4-methylenedioxypyrovalerone (MDPV) in the early 2000s prompted numerous scientific investigations of its behavioral and neurochemical effects. The purpose of this study was to further characterize the interoceptive stimulus effects of MDPV using a validated in-vivo drug-detection assay. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were trained to discriminate 0.3 mg/kg MDPV from saline under a fixed ratio 20 (FR 20) schedule of food reinforcement. After stimulus control was established with MDPV (∼35 training sessions), substitution tests were commenced with drugs from several chemical classes, including drugs with predominantly dopaminergic actions [MDPV, d-amphetamine, (+)-methamphetamine, (−)-cocaine], drugs with predominantly serotonergic actions [(+)-lysergic acid diethylamide, (+)-fenfluramine], and drugs with both serotonergic and dopaminergic actions (3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine, 4-methylmethcathinone). Full substitution for the 0.3 mg/kg MDPV cue was observed with d-amphetamine, (+)-methamphetamine, and (−)-cocaine. Surprisingly, the 5-HT releaser (+)-fenfluramine fully substituted in half the subjects, but completely suppressed responding in the remaining subjects. 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine, 4-methylmethcathinone, and (+)-lysergic acid diethylamide failed to fully substitute for MDPV. These results indicate that the MDPV cue is similar to cues produced by drugs with predominantly dopamine-increasing effects and perhaps serotonin-releasing effects among individual subjects. Given these findings, further research is warranted to directly assess the contributions of dopamine and serotonin receptor isoforms to the discriminative stimulus functions of MDPV.
Lymphaticovenous Bypass: Adaptations and Lessons Learned
Authors: Baltzer Heather L. , Winocour Sebastian , Harless Christin , Saint-Cyr Michel
Published: June 2017

Advances in microsurgical instruments and techniques have allowed for introduction of lymphaticovenous anastomosis as a potential surgical treatment for patients with upper and lower extremity lymphedema. This article reviews the approach to lymphaticovenous anastomosis patient selection and technical modifications that improve the ease and efficiency of the procedure.
HEMORRHAGIC VASCULITIS AND RETINOPATHY HERALDING AS AN EARLY SIGN OF BACTERIAL ENDOPHTHALMITIS AFTER INTRAVITREAL INJECTION
Authors: Conrady Christopher D. , Feistmann Jonathan A. , Roller Aaron B. , Boldt H. Culver , Shakoor Akbar
Published: June 2017

Purpose:

To describe a case series of postintravitreal injection, bacterial endophthalmitis heralded by hemorrhagic retinal vasculitis.

Methods:

Observational case series of three patients with a history of intravitreal injections for age-related macular degeneration at a tertiary referral center who presented with vision changes and eye pain that were eventually found to have bacterial endophthalmitis. Clinical course was then followed.

Results:

All patients developed bacterial endophthalmitis and hemorrhagic retinal vasculitis.

Conclusion:

These three cases highlight the importance of hemorrhagic retinal vasculitis as the presenting fundus finding of bacterial endophthalmitis and that this finding in a postinjection patient should be treated as endophthalmitis until proven otherwise.
How to design and deliver a local teaching program
Authors: Limb Christopher , Whitehurst Katharine , Gundogan Buket , Koshy Kiron , Agha Riaz
Published: June 2017

Teaching is an invaluable aspect of any medical or surgical career. Many trainees will find themselves delivering teaching at several stages in their career and in this “How to” article we explain how to design, set up, and deliver a successful teaching program, as well as how to evidence this in your portfolio.
Adjustable Dual Muscle Speculum for Simplified Placement of a 350 Baerveldt Implant
Authors: Grover Davinder S. , Fellman Ronald L.
Published: June 2017

The authors have designed a muscle hook speculum that simultaneously allows the surgeon to isolate and expose both rectus muscles (either the superior and temporal or medial and inferior) for ease of placement of a 350-mm2 Baerveldt implant. This instrument facilitates the exposure and subsequent placement of either a superior-temporal tube or an infero-nasal tube in a more independent manner. By using the dual muscle hook speculum, an individual surgeon, without a glaucoma-trained assistant, can hook typically both the superior and lateral recti muscles while gaining simultaneous exposure of the quadrant. The purpose of this report is to describe the instrument, how it is used, and how it can improve efficiency in the operating room.
Feasibility and Acceptability of the Use of Patient-Reported Outcome Measures in the Delivery of Nurse-Led, Supportive Care to Women With Cervical Cancer
Authors: Kotronoulas Grigorios , O’Brien Fran , Simpson Mhairi F. , Maguire Roma
Published: June 2017

Purpose/Aims:

Patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) can be effectively used to uncover the unmet needs of women with cervical cancer for supportive care. Our aim was to explore the feasibility and acceptability of PROM-driven, nurse-led consultations to enhance delivery of supportive care to women with cervical cancer during active anticancer treatment.

Design:

A 2-phased, mixed-method prospective study was conducted. Main research variables included feasibility and acceptability parameters of the trialed intervention.

Methods:

Preconsultation PROM data were collected during 3 consecutive monthly consultations and used by the gynecology cancers nurse specialist (CNS) to deliver personalized supportive care. The problem checklist and Cervical Cancer Concerns Questionnaire were used to aid data collection.

Findings:

Because of considerable recruitment challenges, a recruitment rate of 27% (3/11 patients) was achieved. Two patients completed all 3 study assessments. Seven in-clinic patient assessments were performed over 6 months. The study participants praised the opportunity for dedicated time for patients to raise concerns and for the CNS to provide sensitive and personalized support.

Conclusion:

Women with cervical cancer perceive important benefits from participating in PROM-driven, time-protected sessions with their CNS. Our findings provide tentative evidence to support the feasibility and acceptability of this intervention model and warrant future confirmation.

Implications for Practice:
Discovery of BAZ2A Bromodomain Ligands
Authors: Spiliotopoulos Dimitrios , Wamhoff Eike-Christian , Lolli Graziano , Rademacher Christoph , Caflisch Amedeo
Published: June 2017

The bromodomain adjacent to zinc finger domain protein 2A (BAZ2A) is implicated in aggressive prostate cancer. The BAZ2A bromodomain is a challenging target because of the shallow pocket of its natural ligand, the acetylated side chain of lysine. Here, we report the successful screening of a library of nearly 1500 small molecules by high-throughput docking and force field-based binding-energy evaluation. For seven of the 20 molecules selected in silico, evidence of binding to the BAZ2A bromodomain is provided by ligand-observed NMR spectroscopy. Two of these compounds show a favorable ligand efficiency of 0.42 kcal/mol per non-hydrogen atom in a competition-binding assay. The crystal structures of the BAZ2A bromodomain in complex with four fragment hits validate the predicted binding modes. The binding modes of compounds 1 and 3 are compatible with ligand growing for optimization of affinity for BAZ2A and selectivity against the close homologue BAZ2B.
3D clustering analysis of super-resolution microscopy data by 3D Voronoi tessellations
Authors: Andronov Leonid , Michalon Jonathan , Ouararhni Khalid , Orlov Igor , Hamiche Ali , Vonesch Jean-Luc , Klaholz Bruno P.
Published: June 2017

Single-molecule localization microscopy (SMLM) can play an important role in integrated structural biology approaches for example at the interface of cryo electron microscopy (cryo-EM), X-ray crystallography, NMR and fluorescence imaging to identify, localize and determine the 3D structure of cellular structures. While many tools exist for the 3D analysis and visualisation of crystal or cryo-EM structures little exists for 3D SMLM data which can provide fascinating insights but are particularly challenging to analyze in three dimensions especially in a dense cellular context. We developed 3DClusterViSu, a method based on 3D Voronoi tessellations that allows local density estimation, segmentation & quantification of 3D SMLM data and visualization of protein clusters within a 3D tool. We show its robust performance on microtubules and histone proteins H2B and CENP-A with distinct spatial distributions. 3DClusterViSu will favor multi-scale and multi-resolution synergies to allow integrating molecular and cellular levels in the analysis of macromolecular complexes.
Early warning signals regarding environmental suitability in theDrosophilaantenna
Authors: Rong Haoyang , Das Prithwiraj , Lube Adalee , Yang David , Saha Debajit , Ben-Shahar Yehuda , Raman Baranidharan
Published: June 2017

Highlights

A novel geotaxis assay showed high intensity odorant exposures are harmful to flies

Repulsion at high odor intensities can be a protective mechanism

Olfactory receptor neuron (ORN) excitability abruptly changes with odor intensity

A linear combination of ORN activities can robustly predict intensity-dependent behavioral repulsion

The olfactory system is uniquely positioned to warn an organism of environmental threats. Whether and how it encodes such information is not understood. Here, we examined this issue in the fruit flyDrosophila melanogaster.We found that intensity-dependent repulsion to chemicals safeguarded flies from harmful, high-intensity vapor exposures. To understand how sensory input changed as the odor valence switched from innocuous to threatening, we recorded from olfactory receptor neurons (ORNs) in the fly antenna. Primarily, we observed two response non-linearities: recruitment of non-active ORNs at higher intensities, and abrupt transitions in neural excitability from regular spiking to high-firing oscillatory regime. Although non-linearities observed in any single ORN was not a good indicator, a simple linear combination of firing events from multiple neurons provided robust recognition of threating/repulsive olfactory stimuli. In sum, our results reveal how information necessary to avoid environmental threats may also be encoded in the insect antenna.
Unfolding the hippocampus: an intrinsic coordinate system for subfield segmentations and quantitative mapping
Authors: DeKraker Jordan , Ferko Kayla M. , Lau Jonathan C. , Köhler Stefan , Khan Ali R.
Published: June 2017

The hippocampus, like the neocortex, has a morphological structure that is complex and variable in its folding pattern, especially in the hippocampal head. The current study presents a computational method to unfold hippocampal grey matter, with a particular focus on the hippocampal head where complexity is highest due to medial curving of the structure and the variable presence of digitations. This unfolding was performed on segmentations from high-resolution, T2-weighted 7T MRI data from 12 healthy participants and one surgical patient with epilepsy whose resected hippocampal tissue was used for histological validation. We traced a critical hippocampal component, the hippocampal sulcus and stratum radiatum, lacunosum moleculaire, (SRLM) in these images, then employed user-guided semi-automated techniques to detect and subsequently unfold the surrounding hippocampal grey matter. This unfolding was performed by solving Laplace’s equation in three dimensions of interest (long-axis, proximal-distal, and laminar). The resulting ‘unfolded coordinate space’ provides an intuitive way of mapping the hippocampal subfields in 2D space (long-axis and proximal-distal), such that similar borders can be applied in the head, body, and tail of the hippocampus independently of variability in folding. This unfolded coordinate space was employed to map intracortical myelin and thickness in relation to subfield borders, which revealed intracortical myelin differences that closely follow the subfield borders used here. Examination of a histological sample from a patient with epilepsy reveals that our unfolded coordinate system shows biological validity, and that subfield segmentations applied in this space are able to capture features not seen in manual tracing protocols.

Research highlights

SRLM in hippocampal head consistently detected with 7T, T2 isotropic MRI

Hippocampal grey matter unfolded using Laplace’s equation in 3D

Intracortical myelin and thickness mapped in unfolded coordinate space

Unfolded subfields capture critical structural regularities and agree with histology
Unleashing natural competence inLactococcus lactisby induction of the competence regulator ComX
Authors: Mulder Joyce , Wels Michiel , Kuipers Oscar P. , Kleerebezem Michiel , Bron Peter A.
Published: June 2017

In biotechnological work horses likeStreptococcus thermophilusandBacillus subtilisnatural competence can be induced, which facilitates genetic manipulation of these microbes. However, in strains of the important dairy starterLactococcus lactisnatural competence has not been established to date. However,in silicoanalysis of complete genome sequences of 43L. lactisstrains revealed complete late-competence gene-sets in 2L. lactissubspeciescremorisstrains (KW2 and KW10) and 8L. lactissubspecieslactisstrains, including the model strain IL1403 and the plant-derived strain KF147. The remainder of the strains, including all dairy isolates, displayed genomic decay in one or more of the late competence genes. Nisin-controlled expression of the competence regulatorcomXinL. lactissubsp.lactisKF147 resulted in the induction of expression of the canonical competence regulon, and elicited a state of natural competence in this strain. By contrast,comXexpression inL. lactisNZ9000, predicted to encode an incomplete competence gene-set, failed to induce natural competence. Moreover, mutagenesis of thecomEA-ECoperon in strain KF147, abolished thecomXdriven natural competence, underpinning the involvement of the competence machinery. Finally, introduction of nisin-induciblecomXexpression intonisRK-harboring derivatives of strains IL1403 and KW2 allowed the induction of natural competence also in these strains, expanding this phenotype to otherL. lactisstrains of both subspecies.

Significance statement

Specific bacterial species are able to enter a state of natural competence in which DNA is taken up from the environment, allowing the introduction of novel traits. Strains of the speciesLactococcus lactisare very important starter cultures for the fermentation of milk in the cheese production process, where these bacteria contribute to the flavor and texture of the end-product. The activation of natural competence in this industrially relevant organism can accelerate research aiming to understand industrially relevant traits of these bacteria, and can facilitate engineering strategies to harness the natural biodiversity of the species in optimized starter strains.
Spatial sampling in human visual cortex is modulated by both spatial and feature-based attention
Authors: van Es D.M. , Theeuwes J. , Knapen T.
Published: June 2017

Spatial attention changes the sampling of visual space. Behavioral studies suggest that feature-based attention modulates this resampling to optimize the attended feature’s sampling. We investigate this hypothesis by estimating spatial sampling in visual cortex while independently varying both feature-based and spatial attention.

Our results show that spatial and feature-based attention interacted: resampling of visual space depended on both the attended location and feature (color vs. temporal frequency). This interaction occurred similarly throughout visual cortex, regardless of an area’s overall feature preference. However, the interaction did depend on spatial sampling properties of voxels that prefer the attended feature. These findings are parsimoniously explained by variations in the precision of an attentional gain field.

Our results demonstrate that the deployment of spatial attention is tailored to the spatial sampling properties of units that are sensitive to the attended feature.
Just One Brain Activity
Authors: Tozzi Arturo , Peters James F.
Published: June 2017

The term brain activity refers to a wide range of mental faculties that can be assessed either on anatomical/functional micro-, meso- and macro-spatiotemporal scales of observation, or on intertwined levels with mutual interactions. Here we show, based on novel topological findings, how every brain activity encompassed in a given anatomical or functional level necessarily displays a counterpart in others. Different brain activities are able to scatter, collide and combine, merging, condensing and stitching together in a testable and quantifiable way. We point out how, despite their local cortical functional differences, all the mental processes, from perception to emotions, from cognition to mind wandering, may be reduced to a single, general brain activity that takes place in dimensions higher than the classical 3D plus time. In physics, the term duality refers to the case where two seemingly different systems turn out to be equivalent. Our framework permits a topological duality among different brain activities and neuro-techniques, because it holds for all the types of spatio-temporal nervous functions, independent of their cortical location, inter- and intra-level relationships, strength, magnitude and boundaries.
Crystal structure of 4-benzylcarbamoyl-1-methylpyridin-1-ium iodide: an efficient multimodal antiviral drug
Authors: Drebushchak T. N. , Kryukov Yu.A. , Rogova A. I. , Boldyreva E. V.
Published: June 2017

In the title compound, [MeC5H4NCONHCH2C6H5]I or C14H15N2O+·I−, a cation and an anion form an ionic pair linked by a strong N—H...I hydrogen bond. In the crystal, ionic pairs linked by weak C—H...I hydrogen bonds form infinite ribbons along the crystallographicaaxis. Polymorphism screening varying crystallization solvents (water, acetone 90%–water, ethanol 90%–water, 2-propanol 90%–water, DMF, DMSO, methanol, acetonitrile) and conditions (solution temperature, heating and cooling protocols) did not reveal any other polymorphs than the one reported in this work.
The phase transition of rubidium hydrogen carbonate, RbHCO3
Authors: Larvor Carla , Stöger Berthold
Published: June 2017

Rubidium hydrogen carbonate, RbHCO3, features an order/disorder phase transition atTC= 245 K from the high-temperature (HT) disorderedC2/mmodification to the low-temperature (LT)C-1 modification. The crystal structures are characterized by [HCO3]22−pairs of hydrogen carbonate groups connected by strong hydrogen bonding. The [HCO3]22−pairs are connected by Rb+cations into a three-dimensional network. In HT-RbHCO3, the hydrogen atom is disordered. In LT-RbHCO3, ordering of the hydrogen atom leads to atranslationengleichesymmetry reduction of index 2. The lost reflections and rotations are retained as twin operations.
Crystal structure, Hirshfeld analysis and molecular docking with the vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-2 of (3Z)-5-fluoro-3-(hydroxyimino)indolin-2-one
Authors: Martins Bianca Barreto , Bresolin Leandro , Farias Renan Lira de , Oliveira Adriano Bof de , Gervini Vanessa Carratu
Published: June 2017

The reaction between 5-fluoroisatin and hydroxylamine hydrochloride in acidic ethanol yields the title compound, C8H5FN2O2, whose molecular structure matches the asymmetric unit and is nearly planar with an r.m.s. deviation for the mean plane through all non-H atoms of 0.0363 Å. In the crystal, the molecules are linked by N—H...N, N—H...O and O—H...O hydrogen-bonding interactions into a two-dimensional network along the (100) plane, forming rings withR22(8) andR12(5) graph-set motifs. The crystal packing also features weak π–π interactions along the [100] direction [centroid-to-centroid distance 3.9860 (5) Å]. Additionally, the Hirshfeld surface analysis indicates that the major contributions for the crystal structure are the O...H (28.50%) and H...F (16.40%) interactions. Anin silicoevaluation of the title compound with the vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-2 (VEGFR-2) was carried out. The title compound and the selected biological target VEGFR-2 show the N—H...O(GLU94), (CYS96)N—H...O(isatine) and (PHE95)N—H...O(isatine) intermolecular interactions, which suggests a solid theoretical structure–activity relationship.
Methyl (6R*,6aR*,12bR*)-2,4-dimethyl-6-(2-methylphenyl)-1,3-dioxo-2,3,4,6a,7,12b-hexahydro-1H,6H-chromeno[4′,3′:4,5]pyrano[2,3-d]pyrimidine-6a-carboxylate
Authors: Gomathi S. , Dravida Thendral Era , Sivakumar G. , Sabari V. , Usha G.
Published: June 2017

In the title compound, C24H24N2O6, the mean planes of the pyran rings (AandB) are inclined to one another by 69.2 (1)°, while the aromatic ring (D) of the chromene ring system makes dihedral angles of 63.42 (11) and 66.81 (12)° with the pyrimidine (C) and benzene (E) rings, respectively. Pyran ringAhas an half-chair conformation, while pyran ringBhas an envelope conformation, with the spiro C atom as the flap. In the crystal, molecules are linked by C—H...O hydrogen bonds, forming a supramolecular three-dimensional network. There are also a number of C—H...π interactions present.
Study on Lean Six Sigma frameworks: a critical literature review
Authors: Raval Shruti J. , Kant Ravi
Published: June 2017

Purpose

The literature in the field of Lean Six Sigma (LSS) is escalating with frameworks, but, till date, no effort has been made in existing literature to critically reviewing LSS frameworks. The aim of this paper is to investigate the literature about Lean, Six Sigma and LSS frameworks and critically reviewing the existing literature over numerous parameters.

Design/methodology/approach

This study focuses on a literature review of Lean, Six Sigma and LSS frameworks. The time span of this analysis is 30 years. The analysis is restricted to searching online databases such as Elsevier Science direct, Taylor and Francis, Emerald, Springer link, Wiley Inter-Science and Inder-Science. A total number of 58 frameworks have been used as sample size for this study. The study focuses on reviewing these 58 frameworks based on measures such as the novelty of frameworks, source of frameworks, framework verification, approach of verification and identification of vital elements/tools/constructs of frameworks and lastly comparative analysis of all these 58 frameworks

Findings

The analysis has identified major discrepancy such as laxity of researcher toward utilizing existing frameworks, lack of participation of practitioners and consultants in the development of LSS frameworks, and the elements/constructs used in structuring the frameworks are highly incoherent. Higher proportions of frameworks are verified through various modes of verification such as survey, case study, simulation, which encourages other researchers for applicability of the frameworks. Case study is found most popular research design method for verification of frameworks. Various frameworks are highly abstract or superficial. Some of the frameworks do not show how each construct/element are related to implementation in the organization. Out of 58 frameworks, the only single framework is highly comprehensive. A coherent framework for LSS is still lacking.

Research limitations/implications

This analysis is limited to peer review articles from Elsevier Science direct, Taylor and Francis, Emerald, Springer link, Wiley Inter-Science and Inder-Science databases and contains the search keywords in title only.

Originality/value

This study is first of its kind attempt, making an effort to the knowledge of the authors to critically review Lean, Six Sigma and LSS frameworks. This analysis will assist to recognize the LSS filed trends and framework applicability.
Lean production in agribusiness organizations: multiple case studies in a developing country
Authors: Satolo Eduardo Guilherme , Hiraga Laiz Eritiemi de Souza , Goes Gustavo Antiqueira , Lourenzani Wagner Luiz
Published: June 2017

Purpose

This paper aims to conduct case studies in companies of different branches of the agribusiness sector to analyze the degree of adherence to lean production system, considering the use of techniques and tools, and how the specificities of the agribusiness system work.

Design/methodology/approach

By contributing to the refinement of the theory, multiple type case studies were conducted in eight agribusiness units from different branches by applying structured interviews, on-site visits and document analysis. The comparative analysis of the cases occurred focusing on the degree of adherence to lean production system; use of techniques and tools; and influence of the specificities of agribusiness systems.

Findings

The adoption of lean production system occurs as an improvement mechanism of organizational performance. However, it is necessary to advance in the formalization of the actions, which need to encourage the creation of new leaders who spread the organizational philosophy. When comparing the degree of adherence to lean production with the use of techniques and tools, it was observed that there is no direct relationship, indicating that each organization should select only the techniques and tools that will improve their own organizational performance. At last, the specific characteristics of seasonality of consumption, quality and health surveillance and sociological aspects of the food have high influence on surveyed agribusiness systems, and its effects can be minimized by the techniques and tools associated with lean production system.

Research limitations/implications

The analysis is valid for the universe investigated due to the specific characteristic of the case study.

Originality/value

The literature regarding the lean production philosophy is vast; however, the agribusiness segment, one of the major sectors of the global economy, features a large gap in literature. This study is one of the first original papers to report this reality.
Different departments, different drivers
Authors: Guo Lan , Tobias Jutta , Bendoly Elliot , Hu Yuming
Published: June 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the antecedents and performance consequences of voluntary information exchange between the production and sales functions.

Design/methodology/approach

Building on the motivation-opportunity-ability framework, the authors first posit a general model for bilateral information exchange across functional levels. The innovation presented in this model consists in allowing both sides of such an exchange (e.g. production-to-sales and sales-to-production) to differ in the perceived adequacy of information they receive. The two sides can also differ in terms of how their motivation and ability impact that adequacy. To test the model, the authors make use of survey responses and objective data from sales, production and executive managers of 182 Chinese manufacturers.

Findings

Analysis of the sample shows that the sales-to-production exchange has a smaller estimated performance effect than the production-to-sales exchange. Although shared opportunity is important in predicting both sides of the exchange, the measure of motivation appears to only significantly impact the sales-to-production exchange. In contrast, the measure of ability only appears to significantly affect the production-to-sales exchange.

Research limitations/implications

Although limited to a regional context, differences in information-sharing drivers on the two sides of production-sales dyads pose strong implications that may be generalizable.

Practical implications

Specifically, these findings suggest alternative approaches and foci for resource investment that higher level managers can leverage in developing more effective cross-functional work settings.

Originality/value

This study differentiates itself from extant literature on information sharing by focusing on cross-functional (vs intra-functional) and voluntary (vs routine) information exchange.
Domestic tourists’ mind-set towards responsible tourism management: a case study on Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh
Authors: Amin Mohammad Ruhual
Published: June 2017

Purpose

Notwithstanding been a significant stakeholder in the sustainable and responsible tourism (RT) development and management process, worldwide very few studies exclusively investigated tourists’ attitudes towards them. Moreover, studies are especially missing for developing and least developed countries where domestic tourism market is more significant than international market. Besides, in Bangladesh, there is no study as yet which aimed to identify domestic tourists’ attitudes towards responsible tourism management (RTM) and to its triple bottom line (TBL) components. So, the purpose of this paper is to fill these gaps, contributing thus to the existing RTM literature.

Design/methodology/approach

After conducting extensive literature review, this study followed both the exploratory (in-depth interview) and single cross-sectional descriptive (survey) research designs. Further, this study used descriptive statistics (frequency distribution analysis) and multivariate dependence data analysis technique (multiple regression analysis) to analyse the data collected from the 385 sample respondents through systematic random sampling.

Findings

Based on the findings, the present study argues, Bangladeshi tourists have positive attitudes towards each of the TBL components and to RTM, however, there is scope for further improvement. This study also suggests that there is a close link between tourists’ attitudes and their socio-demographic characteristics.

Originality/value

With the support and reference to this study, destination management organisations can work on each of the TBL components to enhance Bangladeshi tourists’ positive attitudes towards RT practices at Cox’s Bazar (CB). Moreover, this study on CB, Bangladesh also contributes to the RTM literature and minimises the known literature gap for developing countries.
Examining workplace bullying measurement using item response theory
Authors: Caponecchia Carlo , Costa Daniel S.J.
Published: June 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine aspects of how workplace bullying is identified by the Negative Acts Questionnaire-Revised (NAQ-R), with a focus on the appropriateness of its response scale using item response theory (IRT).

Design/methodology/approach

IRT, in which the probability of a particular item response reflects an underlying latent variable, was used to examine NAQ-R responses from a sample of 1,173 Australian public servants (Study 1), and a representative UK data set (n=3,494; Study 2).

Findings

Results indicated that problems with the response scale appear to be due to the inclusion of the abstract “now and then” option amongst concrete time options (“never”, “now and then”, “monthly”, “weekly” and “daily”). These results were replicated in Study 2, providing evidence of the robustness of the findings, and suggesting the observations are not sample specific.

Research limitations/implications

This work has implications for methods employed to identify and measure workplace bullying in research and organisational practice. Inconsistent endorsement of response scale options is a concern when total scores are calculated, or when a number of behaviours being experienced with a particular frequency on the response scale are taken as an indication of bullying having occurred.

Originality/value

Examining and refining the manner in which workplace bullying is indexed is important for identifying and managing workplace risks to health, safety and well-being.
A model for project team formation in complex engineering projects under uncertainty
Authors: Hosseini S. Mahdi , Akhavan Peyman
Published: June 2017

Purpose

This paper aims to develop a model for selecting project team members. In this model, while knowledge sharing among individuals is maximized, the project costs and the workload balance among employees are also optimized.

Design/methodology/approach

The problem of project team formation is formulated as a fuzzy multi-objective 0-1 integer programming model. Afterward, to deal with uncertainty in the decision-making on the candidates’ abilities and the project requirements, the fuzzy multi-objective chance-constrained programming approach is adopted. Finally, by combining the non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm II and the fuzzy simulation algorithms, a method is proposed to solve the problem.

Findings

The computational results of the proposed model in a case study of project team formation in a large Iranian company from the shipbuilding industry evidently demonstrated its effectiveness in providing Pareto-optimal solutions for the team composition.

Originality/value

Seemingly for the first time, this paper develops a model to optimize knowledge sharing and improve the project efficiency through the selection of appropriate project team members.
The Bayesian quantile regression and rough set classification
Authors: Wu Shianghau , Guo Jiannjong
Published: June 2017

Purpose

In this paper, the authors aim to propose to find the variables that affect the Taiwanese people’s satisfaction level of the general public with the government.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors intend to utilize the Bayesian quantile regression to explore the variables that affect the satisfaction of the general public at specific quantiles of Taiwanese satisfaction with the government and rough set classification to explore key variables related to the satisfaction level. Then they make the comparison of the classification among the two methods to obtain the performance of the classification.

Findings

The experiment result shows the major factors which have the positive relationship with the people who have higher satisfaction level with the central government. These factors include satisfaction with the uncorrupted performance of the central government; the evaluation of household’s economic condition one year after the present time; the satisfaction with the Taiwanese central government’s measures on food safety and the satisfaction with the 12 years primary education reform.

Originality/value

The study’s originality hinges on the application of Bayesian quantile regression and rough set classification to the analysis of the Taiwanese satisfaction with the government. It offers more insights on the key variables related to different satisfaction level and the classification performance between the two methods.
Demonstrating existence of one suitable oxide phase concurrent with formation of Ti/p-Si Schottky junction by comparing direct calculation with analysis
Authors: Shahryari Mehran , Shakib Mohammad Homayoon , Askari Mohammad Bagher , Nanekarani Shahryar , Saeidi Nejad Sanaz , Bagheri Sedigheh
Published: June 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate the existence of one suitable oxide phase concurrent with deposition for fabricating a titanium (Ti)/p-silicon (Si) Schottky diode by direct current (DC) magnetron sputtering method.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper, a Ti/p-Si Schottky diode has been fabricated by depositing a Ti film on p-Si substrate by DC magnetron sputtering. Electrical properties of a Schottky junction include three main parameters: ideality factor (n), series resistance (Rs) and barrier height (Φb), which were determined by three analysis methods: current–voltage (I-V), Cheung function and Norde function.

Findings

As result outcomes of the calculated values by three analysis methods, average values were obtained equal to 2.475, 27.07 kÙ and 0.88 ev. With comparing direct calculation of series resistance with the achieved average value of three analysis methods, it illustrates that without X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis consideration, it’s possible to deduce at least one oxide phase forming on the Ti layer.

Originality/value

This work fabricates Ti/p-Si Schottky diode by DC magnetron sputtering. By use of downward-arch region of the LnI-V curve, two functions that are known as Norde and Cheung were made with which this study applies these functions and linear region of LnI-V plot each values of n, Φb and Rs, except n calculated two times. With comparison of calculated values from two parts of plot, it is clear that Norde and Cheung functions are accurate and the applied method is correct. Also, with direct calculation, the value of Rs and as compared with result from analysis, this study has proved that without XRD plot, certainly simultaneity deposition at least one oxide phase was forming on Ti layer.
Finite element method simulation of phase transformations during cooling of 55SiMnMo steel
Authors: Yan Tao , Ma Liang , Zhao Shuo , Yu Enlin
Published: June 2017

Purpose

This study aims to focus on numerical simulation investigations of phase transformation during cooling of 55SiMnMo steel, which is commonly applied to improve mechanical properties.

Design/methodology/approach

A mathematical model based on the finite element method (FEM) and the phase transformation kinetics model has been proposed to predict microstructure changes during continuous cooling of 55SiMnMo steel. This model can be employed to analyze the variation of austenite, special upper bainite and lump-like composite structure with cooling time at different cooling rates.

Finding

According to the continuous cooling experiments, when the cooling rate is lower than 0.1°C/s, the special upper bainite is the only transformation product which decreases with increasing cooling rate; when the cooling rate is above 0.5°C/s, the transformation products include special upper bainite and lump-like composite structure. Meanwhile, the results of continuous cooling experiment verified the correctness of this finite element model.

Originality/value

This model has a great value for proper controlling of the cooling process which can improve the quality of hollow drill steel and increase the service life of the final product.
The silencing effects of the childhood innocence ideal: the perceptions and practices of fathers in educating their children about sexuality
Authors: Bennett Clare , Harden Jane , Anstey Sally
Published: June 2017

This study employed Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis to explore eight fathers’ perceptions and practices in talking to their ten year old children about puberty, relationships and reproduction. The fathers participated in face to face interviews which were analysed idiographically initially, followed by analysis at the group level. Interpretations were then developed through critical application of a Foucauldian lens of governmentality and biopower. The results revealed a tension between the fathers’ cognitions, accounts and behaviours. Their practices were largely characterised by silence yet they reported positive attitudes towards children's sexuality education and perceived themselves as equipped and willing to take on the role of sexuality educator. They also reported enjoying open relationships with their children. Interpretations centred on contradictions and conflict between the majority of the fathers’ aspirations and the compelling nature of the childhood innocence discourse as a technology of governmentality. Whilst all of the fathers felt that it was in their children's interests to learn about sexuality, all but one adhered to hegemonic protective discourses and unquestioningly integrated their normalising effects into their fathering practices which, it is argued, may paradoxically render their children more vulnerable both now and in the future.
Negotiating the Politics of Exclusion: Georges Candilis, Housing and the Kuwaiti Welfare State
Authors: Al‐Ragam Asseel
Published: June 2017

In the early stages of welfare planning, the Kuwaiti state restricted equal access to its housing programs in neighborhoods outside the city. The subsequent demographic shift, caused by a Kuwaiti exodus to the ‘suburbs' and non‐Kuwaiti urban labor migration, prompted calls for housing schemes to encourage city living for citizens. Georges Candilis's proposal for a residential neighborhood in Kuwait City emerged from this context. This article examining Candilis's unrealized project also offers a critical perspective on Kuwait's unbalanced housing policies. From this analysis, it draws observations on the role of architects and their limited impact on policies established by decision‐making networks within the welfare state. Seen from this perspective, the Candilis project bears witness to broader socio‐economic agendas that privileged some groups while marginalizing or excluding others.
Synergistic analgesic, anti‐pyretic and anti‐inflammatory effects of extra virgin olive oil and ibuprofen in different experimental models of albino mice
Authors: Osman Walla'a A. , Labib Dina A. , Abdelhalim Mona O. , Elrokh Elsayed M.
Published: June 2017

Aim

Olive oil was used in the past as a remedy for many diseases due to its unlimited benefits in health. This study was carried out to assess the analgesic, anti‐pyretic and anti‐inflammatory activities of extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) at a dose of 8 mL/kg body weight and to compare it with ibuprofen (IBU) as an individual drug therapy and in combination with two different doses of IBU (therapeutic dose 100 mg/kg and low dose 40 mg/kg), on different animal models in albino mice.

Method

A total of 132 adult healthy male Swiss albino mice were used in this study. The analgesic effect was assessed using acetic acid‐induced writhing test. The antipyretic effect was evaluated by brewer's yeast‐induced pyrexia, while the anti‐inflammatory activity was assessed by two different models; the carrageenan‐induced paw edema and the carrageenan‐induced peritonitis in which the levels of total leukocyte count (TLC), neutrophil count, prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and interferon gamma (INF‐γ) were measured in the peritoneal exudates.

Results

The results revealed significant protection in all the treated groups; however, the combination of EVOO with IBU at its therapeutic dose showed superiority over the two compounds when used separately.

Conclusion

Using EVOO with the therapeutic dose of IBU showed synergistic effect in controlling the cardinal signs of acute inflammation rather than using non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs alone.
It's worth the wait: optimizing questioning methods for effective intraoperative teaching
Authors: Barrett Meredith , Magas Christopher P. , Gruppen Larry D. , Dedhia Priya H. , Sandhu Gurjit
Published: June 2017

Background

The use of questioning to engage learners is critical to furthering resident education intraoperatively. Previous studies have demonstrated that higher level questioning and optimal wait times (>3 s) result in learner responses reflective of higher cognition and retention. Given the importance of intraoperative learning, we investigated question delivery in the operating room.

Methods

A total of 12 laparoscopic cholecystectomies were observed and recorded. All questions were transcribed and classified using Bloom's Taxonomy, a framework associated with hierarchical levels of learning outcomes. Wait time between question end and response was recorded.

Results

Six faculty attendings and seven house officers at our institution were observed. A total of 133 questions were recorded with an average number of questions per case of 11.2. The majority of questions 112 out of 133 (84%) were classified as Bloom's levels 1–3, with only 6% of questions of the highest level. The wait time before the resident answered the question averaged 1.75 s, with attendings interceding after 2.50 s. Question complexity and wait time did not vary based on resident postgraduate year level suggesting limited tailoring of question to learner.

Conclusions

Intraoperative questioning is not aligned with higher level thinking. The majority of questions were Bloom's level 3 or below, limiting the complexity of answer formulation. Most responses were given within 2 s, hindering opportunity to pursue higher‐order thinking. This suggests including higher level questions and tailoring questions to learner level may improve retention and maximize gains. In addition, with attendings answering 20% of their own questions, increasing their wait time offers another area for teaching development.