bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Toward an understanding of strategic control at a distance in public service delivery
Authors: Ahmad Salman , Connolly Ciaran , Demirag Istemi 
Published: November 2020

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to explore how localized (organization-level) actors of policy initiatives that are inspired by neoliberal ideologies use management accounting and control practices. Specifically, it addresses the operational stages of a case study Private Finance Initiative (PFI) contract within the United Kingdom's (UK's) transport sector of roads for embedding government objectives in the underlying project road.Design/methodology/approachThis paper adopts Dean's (2010) analytics of government to unpack the accounting-based control practices within the case study contract in order to articulate how, at the micro level, the government's objective of improving road-users' safety is enacted, modified and maintained through such regimes.FindingsDrawing on a content-based analysis of UK government PFI policy and extensive case study-specific documents, together with interviews and observations, this research provides theoretical insights about how control practices, at a distance without direct intervention, function as forms of power for government for shaping the performance of the PFI contractor. The authors find that the public sector's accounting control regimes in the case study project have a constraining effect on “real partnership working” between the government and private contractors and on the private sector's incentive to innovate.Research limitations/implicationsBy analyzing a single road case study PFI contract, the findings may not be generalizable.Originality/valueThis paper provides significant theoretically informed insights about how public service delivery that is outsourced to private contractors is controlled by government at a distance within complex organizational arrangements (e.g. PFI).
How do stakeholders evaluate smart specialization policies defined for their regions?
Authors: Farinha Luís , Lopes João , Sebastião João Renato , Ferreira João José , Oliveira José , Silveira Paulo 
Published: November 2020

Purpose
This paper aims to understand how the different stakeholders assess the adequacy of smart specialization policies defined for their regions.

Design/methodology/approach
This paper has followed a quantitative methodology through the application of questionnaire surveys to stakeholders of the various territorial regions in Portugal.

Findings
As a result, from the “resource-based view” approach applied to the various regions, the attained results highlight that the suitability of smart specialization policies defined for the Portuguese regions is not unanimous among its stakeholders.

Originality/value
The research can be used as a tool to assist regional policymakers in strategic reflection when defining and adjusting smart specialization strategies in their territories.
The role of financial development on economic growth in the emerging market countries of the sub-Saharan African (SSA) region
Authors: Omar Bakar Hamad , Sulong Zunaidah , Chowdhury Mohammad Ashraful Ferdous 
Published: November 2020

PurposeThis paper aims to investigate the effect of financial development (FD) on economic growth and growth-enhancing transmission channels for the sub-Saharan African (SSA) region in three different periods: the pre-Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) era (1990–1999), during the MDGs (2000–2017) era and the main period (1990–2017).Design/methodology/approachThe study used the system generalized method of moments (SGMM) approach on 45 SSA countries from 1990 to 2017, using the data collected from the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF).FindingsThe long-run effect of the study showed mixed results in pre-MDGs and during MDGs periods but was positive in the main period. For growth-enhancing transmission channels, the results were mixed, although in many cases, institutional (INST) quality, human capital (HC) and foreign direct investment (FDI) were the main transmission channels.Research limitations/implicationsSome of the countries were dropped from the analysis due to data inadequacy.Practical implicationsThe empirical results of this study provide evidence that the financial sector has robust positive effect throughout 1990–2017. Furthermore, the financial sector depends on several factors to improve economic growth. The SSA region has to focus on improving HC, INST quality in terms of good governance and create environment that is attractive to FDI since they were the main growth-enhancing channels.Originality/valueMost of the studies in SSA countries assessed the direct effect of FD on economic growth without considering its transmission channels in different time frames. Moreover, they often used specific variables but not the financial index. This study extended the scope by considering various financial sector transmission channels, in different time periods and the financial index.
What drives target status decision in emerging markets acquisitions?
Authors: Hoang Viet Anh , Dang Man , Nguyen Ngoc Vu , Nguyen Ngoc Thang , Henry Darren 
Published: November 2020

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to investigate the effects of cross-country characteristics on acquirers' target status choice in cross-border mergers and acquisitions across 41 emerging markets.Design/methodology/approachThe paper first reviews the existing literature and develops the related hypotheses, in conjunction with the objectives of this paper. We then describe the data employed, variable measurement and examine the effects of cross-country characteristics on the acquirers' target status choice in cross-border mergers and acquisitions while controlling for firm-level and deal-specific characteristics. The paper continues to conduct the robustness check on cross-country determinants of target status choices using the difference independent variables rather than target country-level variables only.FindingsThis research found that the likelihood of a public firm acquired relative to private one is higher if the target firm is located in countries with stronger government quality, weaker economic freedom, better financial market development and lower cultural distance between the host and home countries. The results suggest that bidders actively assess cross-country characteristics as part of their acquisition planning.Originality/valueRather than commonly analysed determinants in the previous research such as firm- and deal-specific attributes, value creation and shareholder protection, this paper indicates that institutional environments and economic conditions are closely associated with acquisition risks and benefits and have direct influences on bidder firms' acquisition bidding planning and target choice decision-making.
Understanding disruptive technology transitions in the global logistics industry: the role of ecosystems
Authors: Mikl Jasmin , Herold David M. , Pilch Kamila , Ćwiklicki Marek , Kummer Sebastian 
Published: November 2020

PurposeDisruptive technologies in the global logistics industry are often regarded as a threat to the existing business models of incumbents’ companies. Existing research, however, focuses mainly on whether technologies have disruptive potential, thereby neglecting when such disruptive transitions occur. To understand the timing of potential disruptive technological change, this paper aims to investigate the elements of the underlying ecosystem shaping these transitions.Design/methodology/approachBuilding on the established ecosystem framework from Adner and Kapoor (2016a), this paper constructs four categories of technology substitution to assess how quickly disruptive change may occur in the global logistics industry and defines key technology substitution determinants in logistics to emphasize the role of ecosystems for further consideration into disruptive innovation theory.FindingsBased on the key determinants, this paper proposes first definitions of distinctive ecosystems elements linked to the three types of innovations, namely, sustaining innovations, low-end disruptions and new-market disruptions, thereby integrating ecosystems into Christensen’s (1997) disruptive innovation theory.Originality/valueBy developing a framework that conceptualizes the pace of technology substitution, this paper contributes to a more nuanced understanding of how logistics managers and academics can better predict disruptive transitions and develop strategies to allocate resources.
High soilpHenhances the network interactions among bacterial and archaeal microbiota in alpine grasslands of the Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Chen Beibei , Jiao Shuo , Luo Shuaiwei , Ma Beibei , Qi Wei , Cao Changdong , Zhao Zhigang , Du Guozhen , Ma Xiaojun 
Published: November 2020

SummarySoil functions and processes are driven by complex microbial interactions. It is, therefore, critical to understand the coexistence patterns of soil microbiota, especially in fragile alpine ecosystems. We identified biogeographic patterns in the network‐level topological features of the soil microbial co‐occurrence network in the Tibetan alpine grasslands, based on high‐throughput sequencing. We verified that soil pH was the most important environmental variable for predicting network‐level topological features of soil microbial co‐occurrence networks. Associations among soil microbiota were enhanced with increasing pH (5.17–8.92), and the network was the most stable at neutral pH. Moreover, node‐level topological features suggested that the archaeal operational taxonomic units, compared with bacterial operational taxonomic units, hold a central role in the co‐occurrence network. Network‐level topological features revealed closer connections among soil microbiota in the steppe ecosystem than in the meadow ecosystem. Therefore, our study demonstrated that soil pH served as a critical environmental filter that influenced the potential associations and ecological signature of soil microbiota in the Tibetan alpine grasslands. These findings provide a new perspective on the distinct biogeographic patterns of co‐occurrence networks, to explore the ecological role of soil microbiota and thus help manage soil bacterial and archaeal communities for provisioning alpine ecosystem services.
Culture, institutions, and long‐run performance
Authors: Zhou Haiwen 
Published: November 2020

AbstractIf institutions are essential for long‐run performance, why don't developing countries adopt institutions in developed countries to become rich? In this dynamic model, culture affects a ruler's institutional choice, while culture itself evolves endogenously. Multiple stable steady states are possible, and even similar initial conditions can lead to dramatically different steady states. The state of Qin's unification of China in 221bcis used to illustrate the model. In one steady state, consistent with what happened in the state of Qin, individuals value material incentives. Qin did not strictly practice the patriarchal clan system advocated by Confucianism. Qin adopted Legalist institutions under which government officials were chosen by merit, and Qin culture was further shaped by Legalism. In another steady state, consistent with what happened in states other than Qin, individuals value loyalty and family values. Those states chose not to adopt Legalist institutions comprehensively, fearing that inconsistencies between culture and institutions could lead to internal rebellions even though institutional reforms would increase their military power. Other cases of how the interdependence between culture and institutions affects performance are also discussed.
Pre‐procedural platelet transfusion thresholds in hospitalised children — Protocol for a scoping review
Authors: Holst Lars Broksø , Afshari Arash , Møller Morten Hylander , Russell Lene 
Published: November 2020

BackgroundThrombocytopenia is a common condition in hospitalised critically ill children and most platelet transfusions are given as prophylaxis to non‐bleeding children prior to invasive procedures such as central venous catheterisation and lumbar puncture. Platelet transfusion may reduce bleeding complications but have also been associated with potential adverse effects and variation in clinical practice exist. To direct future research, we aim to assess the current evidence regarding prophylactic platelet transfusion prior to procedures in hospitalised thrombocytopenic children.MethodsWe will conduct a scoping review of all study designs in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) statement. We will include studies on hospitalised children undergoing invasive procedures where the prevalence of thrombocytopenia and the predefined outcome measures, including bleeding, transfusion‐related adverse events and use of blood products and life support are reported. We will provide descriptive analyses of the included studies/trials and the quality of evidence will be assessed according to the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) approach.ConclusionThe outlined scoping review will provide an overview on the benefits and harms of prophylactic platelet transfusion prior to invasive procedures in thrombocytopenic hospitalised children.
Seasonal variation in biopsy‐proven giant cell arteritis in Eastern Denmark from 1990‐2018
Authors: Kønig Elisabeth Bay , Stormly Hansen Michael , Foldager Jonathan , Siersma Volkert , Loft Annika , Terslev Lene , Møller Døhn Uffe , Radmer Jensen Mads , Wiencke Anne Katrine , Faber Carsten , Hamann Steffen , Heegaard Steffen 
Published: November 2020

AbstractPurposeThe purpose of this study was to investigate seasonal variation in cases of biopsy‐proven GCA in eastern Denmark in a 29‐year period.MethodsPathology records of all temporal artery biopsies in eastern Denmark between 1990 and 2018 were reviewed. For each patient, data were collected which included age, sex, date of birth and biopsy result. Seasonality was evaluated using logistic regression and Poisson regression analysis. Lastly, an explorative pilot study was conducted to investigate a possible association between three weather parameters (average temperature, amount of rain and hours of sunshine) and the biopsy outcome.ResultsOne thousand three hundred twenty‐three biopsies were included of which 336 fulfilled objective criteria for GCA diagnosis. Mean age at diagnosis was 75.6 years (range 52–94 years). Among the biopsy‐proven cases of GCA, there were 223 women (66.3%, mean age 76.2 years) and 113 men (33.7%, mean age 74.4 years) giving a female to male ratio of 1.97:1. The peak occurrence of GCA was in the 70–79 years age group. Statistical analysis of seasonal variation showed an increased risk of a positive biopsy during summer compared to autumn (p = 0.037). No association between the three weather parameters and the biopsy outcome was found.ConclusionIn this study of biopsy‐proven GCA in a large Danish patient cohort, the occurrence of GCA showed seasonal variation with higher occurrence in the summer months when compared to autumn. Future studies pooling all cases of GCA worldwide are needed to determine seasonality in the occurrence of GCA.
Public opinion and experiences of crime two and five years following the implementation of a targeted regulation of licensed premises in Newcastle, Australia
Authors: Wiggers John , Tindall Jenny , Hodder Rebecca K. , Gillham Karen , Kingsland Melanie , Lecathelinais Christophe 
Published: November 2020

ABSTRACTIntroduction and AimsIn 2008 additional licensing restrictions were imposed on ‘high‐risk’ licensed premises in the entertainment precinct of Newcastle (Australia) including earlier closing, a ‘lock‐out’ and additional responsible service of alcohol restrictions. A study was conducted to assess community perceptions, experiences of crime and support for the restrictions, 2 and 5 years following implementation.Design and MethodsTelephone surveys were conducted with random samples of Newcastle community members (≥18 years) in 2010 and 2013. Change over time in perceptions and experiences of crime, and awareness and support of the conditions was analysed using logistic regression analyses for all participants, and separately for night‐time visitors.ResultsAmong all participants (2010: n = 376; 2013: n = 314) the perception that alcohol misuse was a problem declined between 2010 and 2013 for all participants (90% to 85%; P = 0.02), and specifically among night‐time visitors (87% to 75%; P = 0.06). Awareness of the restrictions was high among all participants and sub‐groups, and remained constant over time. Support for the restrictions was also high, with drink restrictions being the most popular. More night‐time visitors reported that conditions made the streets safer in 2013 (62%) than 2010 (47%; P = 0.05). Support for applying restrictions to all licensed premises in the Newcastle entertainment precinct (83%) and across New South Wales was high in 2013 (86%).Discussion and ConclusionsAt 2 years and 5 years following implementation of additional licensing restrictions, significant improvements in public perceptions of the occurrence of alcohol‐related harm and crime were evident, as were high levels of support for the restrictions.
The impact of volume substitution on post‐operative atrial fibrillation
Authors: Schnaubelt Sebastian , Pilz Arnold , Koller Lorenz , Kazem Niema , Hofer Felix , Fleck Tatjana , Laufer Günther , Steinlechner Barbara , Niessner Alexander , Sulzgruber Patrick 
Published: November 2020

AbstractBackgroundPost‐operative atrial fibrillation (POAF) represents a common complication after cardiac valve or coronary artery bypass surgery. While strain of atrial tissue is known to induce atrial fibrillating impulses, less attention has been paid to potentially strain‐promoting values during the peri‐ and post‐operative period. This study aimed to determine the association of peri‐ and post‐operative volume substitution with markers of cardiac strain and subsequently the impact on POAF development and promotion.ResultsA total of 123 (45.4%) individuals were found to develop POAF. Fluid balance within the first 24 hours after surgery was significantly higher in patients developing POAF as compared to non‐POAF individuals (+1129.6 mL [POAF] vs +544.9 mL [non‐POAF], P = .044). Post‐operative fluid balance showed a direct and significant correlation with post‐operative N‐terminal pro‐brain natriuretic peptide (NT‐ProBNP) values (r = .287; P = .002). Of note, the amount of substituted volume significantly proved to be a strong and independent predictor for POAF with an adjusted odds ratio per one litre of 1.44 (95% CI: 1.09‐1.31; P = .009). In addition, we observed that low pre‐operative haemoglobin levels at admission were associated with a higher need of intraoperative transfusions and volume‐demand.ConclusionSubstitution of larger transfusion volumes presents a strong and independent predictor for the development of POAF. Via the observed distinct association with NT‐proBNP values, it can reasonably be assumed that post‐operative atrial fibrillating impulses are triggered via increased global cardiac strain. Optimized pre‐operative management of pre‐existing anaemia should be considered prior surgical intervention in terms of a personalized patient care.
Proteasome interaction with ubiquitinated substrates: from mechanisms to therapies
Authors: Chen Xiang , Htet Zaw Min , López‐Alfonzo Erika , Martin Andreas , Walters Kylie J. 
Published: November 2020

The 26S proteasome is responsible for regulated proteolysis in eukaryotic cells. Its substrates are diverse in structure, function, sequence length, and amino acid composition, and are targeted to the proteasome by post‐translational modification with ubiquitin. Ubiquitination occurs through a complex enzymatic cascade and can also signal for other cellular events, unrelated to proteasome‐catalyzed degradation. Like other post‐translational protein modifications, ubiquitination is reversible, with ubiquitin chain hydrolysis catalyzed by the action of deubiquitinating enzymes (DUBs), ~ 90 of which exist in humans and allow for temporal events and dynamic ubiquitin‐chain remodeling. DUBs have been known for decades to be an integral part of the proteasome, as deubiquitination is coupled to substrate unfolding and translocation into the internal degradation chamber. Moreover, the proteasome also binds several ubiquitinating enzymes and shuttle factors that recruit ubiquitinated substrates. The role of this intricate machinery and how ubiquitinated substrates interact with proteasomes remains an area of active investigation. Here, we review what has been learned about the mechanisms used by the proteasome to bind ubiquitinated substrates, substrate shuttle factors, ubiquitination machinery, and DUBs. We also discuss many open questions that require further study or the development of innovative approaches to be answered. Finally, we address the promise of expanded therapeutic targeting that could benefit from such new discoveries.
Promoting ethics across the healthcare sector: what can codes achieve?
Authors: Lipworth Wendy , Kerridge Ian , Montgomery Kathleen , Komesaroff Paul A. 
Published: November 2020

AbstractOver the course of the twentieth century, numerous national and international ethics ‘codes’ have been developed. While such codes serve important substantive and symbolic functions, they can also pose challenges. In this article, we discuss these challenges, noting that they fall into four main categories relating to conceptual tensions, power imbalances, organisational barriers, and threats of exploitation. We illustrate these challenges using examples provided from the United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) Universal Declaration on Bioethics and Human Rights. We emphasise the importance of accountability in the development and maintenance of national and international codes and argue that, despite all their challenges, codes provide an important common language among otherwise disparate and sometimes adversarial groups, and provide visible and explicit sets of standards that may be invoked by community members to criticise and hold powerful bodies to account. This is particularly important for practitioners and researchers who belong to organisations that are signatories to codes, who can use these codes to both guide and justify ethical behaviour in the face of competing organisational, professional and political imperatives.