bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
An empirical study of the impact of lean on the performance of the construction industry in UAE
Authors: Shurrab Jaber , Hussain Matloub 
Published: September 2018

Purpose
The purpose of this study is to propose a conceptual framework for the exploration of appropriate lean techniques applicable to medium and large construction companies and measure their impact on the competitiveness and economic performance of construction companies in United Arab Emirates.

Design/methodology/approach
A questionnaire survey is conducted on 215 construction professionals in UAE to investigate the lean technique’s effect on the construction companies’ performance. The data collected were analyzed with SPSS 20.0 version software using the Cronbach’s a reliability test, correlation coefficient test and Kaiser–Meyer–Olkin test.

Findings
Analysis of lean techniques in the construction industry reveals 21 lean techniques. These techniques were categorized into the six types of lean core values. Process focus was found to be the most applied type of construction core value in the surveyed companies. This is required to focus on applying other core values as it will impact the company’s economic performance positively.

Research limitations/implications
The integrity of the research findings is based on the accuracy and reliability of collected data from 215 respondents working for construction companies in UAE, implementing lean construction techniques within a their daily activates and not achieving significant project achievements in terms of quality improvement, speed and cost reduction without adopting the overall lean construction framework.

Practical implications
This research recommends a systematic approach for the implementation of the anticipated framework within a cyclical look-ahead period and emphasizes the practical implications of the proposed approach in the construction companies.

Originality/value
Research significance emphasizes increasing the effectiveness of the construction industry and influences the development of lean construction framework, which improves lean construction practices using the lean techniques. This contributes to the effort of applying lean techniques in the construction industry. Limited studies have been done in the construction industry, mainly in UAE, compared to lean manufacturing.
Innovation capability configuration and its influence on the relationship between perceived innovation requirement and organizational performance
Authors: Su Ming-Feng , Cheng Kuo-Chih , Chung Shao-Hsi , Chen Der-Fa 
Published: September 2018

Purpose
When the management of an information technology (IT) manufacturing firm perceives a need for innovation due to any threat in the external environment, it will be prompted to use organizational resources to support innovation and improve organizational performance through the implementation of the innovation. The purpose of this paper is to explore whether an IT manufacturing firm’s budget slack, information quality of information system (IS), process innovation and product innovation would interact to collectively form an innovation capacity, which is termed “innovation capability configuration (ICC)”, and whether ICC mediates the relationship between perceived innovation requirement and organizational performance.

Design/methodology/approach
To answer these questions, a structural equation model was built and a questionnaire survey was conducted to collect data from research and development and production managers of IT manufacturing companies listed on the Taiwan Stock Exchange and Over-The-Counter markets.

Findings
The results showed that budget slack, IS information quality, process innovation and product innovation are all significantly related to ICC, in which high-quality information and low level of budget slack are the key factors that underpin the innovation capacity. In addition, ICC has a full mediation effect, that is, perceived innovation requirement positively influences ICC, which, in turn, improves organizational performance.

Research limitations/implications
Because all items in a questionnaire were answered by a manager, the common method variance might exist in this study. In addition, the effective recovery rate of the questionnaire was not high due to which the non-response bias might occur. Following the research limitations, several future research recommendations are proposed.

Practical implications
This study offers managerial implications for the development of an IT manufacturing firm’s innovation strategy and structure to smooth the implementation of innovation in the severe environment.

Originality/value
The study is the first attempt to integrate the four elements clearly illustrating the ICC, which is a more complete innovation strategy, thus contributing to improve the past fragmental studies and clarify some controversial points existing in the extant innovation research.
The political iceberg: the hidden side of leaders’ political behaviour
Authors: Kidron Aviv , Vinarski-Peretz Hedva 
Published: September 2018

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to implement the concept of the “political iceberg” and to investigate its hidden or submerged part comprised of motives and latent triggers lying behind leaders’ political behavior, and which remains almost unexplored. Specifically, drawing on the abundant literature at the intersection of leadership and organizational politics, the authors examine – what drives leaders to engage in political behavior?Design/methodology/approachPublic sector organizations are characterized by a high level of organizational politics and are therefore suitable for this research. A semi-structured interview formed the main data-gathering instrument. The authors conducted interviews with 14 leaders across public sector organizations. The findings are based on a qualitative analysis of the interviews.FindingsTwo key themes were analyzed: leaders’ motives to engage in political behavior to achieve corporate interests; leaders’ motives to engage in political behave or for personal interests. On the one hand, motives for political behavior are directed toward the general good, such as accomplishing organizational goals, attaining resources and managing change. On the other hand, motives to engage in political behavior may focus inter alia on such, personal interests as one’s career in the organization, gaining an advantage or other self-interests.Originality/valueTo date, research has focused primarily on the visible tip of the political iceberg. This study is part of a new stream of qualitative studies of political behavior. To gain a complete picture of organizational life, this study focuses on the hidden side of the political iceberg and has revealed the motives for political behavior.
What are the key innovative strategies needed for future tourism in Guyana?
Authors: Sinclair Donald , Jayawardena Chandana (Chandi) 
Published: September 2018

Purpose
This paper aims to provide answers to the strategic question: “What innovative strategies are needed to develop tourism in Guyana for 2025?”. It captures the essence of scholarly contributions made by experts and provides a concluding summary to WHATT theme issue on tourism in Guyana.

Design/methodology/approach
This paper draws from concepts, suggestions and solutions written by authors of seven proceeding papers. These authors cumulatively have valuable and diverse experience in managing, operating and teaching many key aspects of tourism industry. This paper presents summaries responding to seven questions on the following topics: understanding past tourism in Guyana; tourism policy and the path to sustainable tourism development; development of community-based tourism (CBT); impact in tourism from entrepreneurship ecosystem; strategies for boosting travel to Guyana from diasporic areas; justification for including Jonestown as part of dark tourism; and human resource development for tourism and hospitality.

Findings
In conclusion, a “Vision 2025 tool box for tourism in Guyana” concept is presented. Several specific recommendations related to tourism in Guyana are made.

Practical implications
As this paper is a combination of views from seven papers, there is no common conclusion. For further analysis, it is recommended that relevant papers of this theme issue be reviewed.

Originality/value
Readers who are interested in tourism in Guyana would benefit from this paper.
The role of conserved proteins DrpA and DrpB in nitrate respiration of Thermus thermophilus
Authors: Chahlafi Zahra , Alvarez Laura , Cava Felipe , Berenguer José 
Published: September 2018

SummaryIn many Thermus thermophilus strains, nitrate respiration is encoded in mobile genetic regions, along with regulatory circuits that modulate its expression based on anoxia and nitrate presence. The oxygen‐responsive system has been identified as the product of the dnrST (dnr) operon located immediately upstream of the nar operon (narCGHJIKT), which encodes the nitrate reductase (NR) and nitrate/nitrite transporters. In contrast, the nature of the nitrate sensory system is not known. Here, we analyse the putative nitrate‐sensing role of the bicistronic drp operon (drpAB) present downstream of the nar operon in most denitrifying Thermus spp. Expression of drp was found to depend on the master regulator DnrT, whereas the absence of DrpA or DrpB increased the expression of both DnrS and DnrT and, concomitantly, of the NR. Absence of both proteins made expression from the dnr and nar operons independent of nitrate. Polyclonal antisera allowed us to identify DrpA as a periplasmic protein and DrpB as a membrane protein, with capacity to bind to the cytoplasmic membrane. Here, we propose a role for DrpA/DrpB as nitrate sensors during denitrification.
Myeloid cell‐derived tumor necrosis factor‐alpha promotes sarcopenia and regulates muscle cell fusion with aging muscle fibers
Authors: Wang Ying , Welc Steven S. , Wehling‐Henricks Michelle , Tidball James G. 
Published: September 2018

AbstractSarcopenia is age‐related muscle wasting that lacks effective therapeutic interventions. We found that systemic ablation of tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α) prevented sarcopenia and prevented age‐related change in muscle fiber phenotype. Furthermore,TNF‐α ablation reduced the number of satellite cells in aging muscle and promoted muscle cell fusion in vivo and in vitro. Because CD68+ macrophages are important sources of TNF‐α and the number of CD68+ macrophages increases in aging muscle, we tested whether macrophage‐derived TNF‐α affects myogenesis. Media conditioned byTNF‐α‐null macrophages increased muscle cell fusion in vitro, compared to media conditioned by wild‐type macrophages. In addition, transplantation of bone marrow cells from wild‐type mice intoTNF‐α‐null recipients increased satellite cell numbers and reduced numbers of centrally nucleated myofibers, indicating that myeloid cell‐secreted TNF‐α reduces muscle cell fusion. Transplanting bone marrow cells from wild‐type mice intoTNF‐α‐null recipients also increased sarcopenia, although transplantation did not restore the age‐related change in muscle fiber phenotype. Collectively, we show that myeloid cell‐derived TNF‐α contributes to muscle aging by affecting sarcopenia and muscle cell fusion with aging muscle fibers. Our findings also show that TNF‐α that is intrinsic to muscle and TNF‐α secreted by immune cells work together to influence muscle aging.
Varenicline versus placebo for waterpipe smoking cessation: a double‐blind randomized controlled trial
Authors: Dogar Omara , Zahid Raana , Mansoor Sonia , Kanaan Mona , Ahluwalia Jasjit S. , Jawad Mohammed , Siddiqi Kamran 
Published: September 2018

AbstractBackground and AimsWaterpipe tobacco smoking is a growing public health concern. There is limited research using pharmacotherapy and no research using varenicline (established treatment for smoking cessation) in waterpipe smokers. We tested the efficacy of varenicline in achieving abstinence from all tobacco use among waterpipe smokers.DesignTwo‐arm, parallel group, placebo‐controlled, double‐blind, multi‐centre (n = 4), individually randomized trial with follow‐up to 25 weeks.SettingsDistrict general hospitals and catchment communities within four districts of Punjab, Pakistan.ParticipantsAdult daily waterpipe smokers (n = 510; 253 in varenicline and 257 in placebo arms), who were interested in quitting, were recruited and analysed between March and November 2016. Of these, 220 (87%) in the varenicline and 239 (93%) in the placebo arms completed all follow‐ups. Participants were on average aged 49 [standard deviation (SD) = 15.2] years, daily smokers and smoked for the last 27 (SD = 15.9) years. More than half (261, 51.2%) also smoked cigarettes.Intervention and comparatorAll trial participants received two structured sessions of behavioural support (of 30 and 10 minutes) one at the time of registration and the other 1 week later. Participants were randomized to varenicline (active arm) and placebo (control arm) stratified on district, sex and concomitant cigarette smoking. Varenicline and placebo were dispensed as identical unlabelled tablets for 12 weeks: 0.5 mg for 1 week (once on days 1–3, twice on days 4–7) and 1 mg for the subsequent 11 weeks (twice daily).MeasurementsThe trial participants were followed‐up for a period of 25 weeks post‐randomization. The primary outcome was 7‐day repeated point prevalence abstinence from all forms of tobacco, self‐reported at each of weeks 5, 12 and 25, verified by carbon‐monoxide cut‐off < 10 parts per million.FindingsNo evidence of statistically significant difference in repeated point prevalence abstinence between the varenicline (12 of 253; 4.7%) and placebo (11 of 257; 4.3%) arms (relative risk = 1.11, 95% confidence interval = 0.50–2.47, P = 0.80) was observed (Bayes factor = 0.048). Adverse events reported in 27 participants were 34 (15 in varenicline and 19 in placebo); none was serious.ConclusionsVarenicline was not more effective than placebo in aiding cessation of tobacco use in long‐term daily waterpipe smokers.
Attention difficulties and physical dysfunction common in children with complex congenital malformations: a study of preschool children with VACTERL association
Authors: Kassa A‐M , Dahl M , Strinnholm M , Engstrand Lilja H 
Published: September 2018

AbstractAimKnowledge on the neurodevelopmental and physical function in children with vertebral defects, anorectal malformations, cardiac defects, tracheo‐oesophageal fistula, renal and limb malformations (VACTERL) is scarce. We evaluated Swedish preschool children with VACTERL and identified whether they would need extra support in school.MethodsFrom 2015 to 2017, we recruited children aged 5–7 with VACTERL association from the paediatric surgical centre at the University Children's Hospital at Uppsala. Neurodevelopmental function was assessed by age‐appropriate intelligence and visual and auditory attention tests, and the children's behaviour and attention were observed by an experienced psychologist. Physical function was evaluated through parental interviews and examinations. Data on patient characteristics, including any surgery and anaesthesia, were extracted from medical records.ResultsOf the 13 eligible families, 10 agreed to participate. Intelligence was within the normal range for all children, but attention difficulties were found in eight of the children, requiring adjustments at school, and two of these were later diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. All children had physical dysfunctions that affected their daily nutrition, bowel or bladder functions.ConclusionAttention difficulties and physical dysfunction were common in Swedish preschool children aged 5–7 with VACTERL and they would need support and adjustments when they started school.
Oral health‐related quality of life as a predictor of subjective well‐being among older adults—A decade‐long longitudinal cohort study
Authors: Klotz Anna‐Luisa , Tauber Benjamin , Schubert Anna‐Lena , Hassel Alexander Jochen , Schröder Johannes , Wahl Hans‐Werner , Rammelsberg Peter , Zenthöfer Andreas 
Published: September 2018

AbstractObjectiveThe objective of this study was to evaluate possible longitudinal associations between oral health‐related quality of life (OHRQoL) and subjective well‐being among quinquagenarians and septuagenarians over up to 10 years of clinical observation.MethodsThis research is part of the “Interdisciplinary Study on Adult Development and Aging (ILSE).” All participants lived in an urban region of southwest Germany. One hundred and fifty‐two participants born in 1930–1932 (older cohort, OC; n = 54) and 1950–1952 (younger cohort, YC; n = 98) underwent comprehensive psychological, medical and dental examinations at baseline and up to 10 years thereafter. The Geriatric Oral Health Assessment Index (GOHAI) was used to assess OHRQoL. The Philadelphia Geriatric Center Morale Scale (PGCMS), general life satisfaction (GLS) and individuals’ general satisfaction with their health (SWH) were used to evaluate subjective well‐being. Regression models and structural equation modelling (SEM) were used to analyse the longitudinal associations between OHRQoL and subjective well‐being.ResultsA cross‐lagged prediction model revealed a positive association between baseline OHRQoL and subjective well‐being across 10 years for both birth cohorts, OC [0.49 (0.21; 0.69)] and YC [0.36 (0.24; 0.52)]. However, higher subjective well‐being at baseline was not a predictor of better OHRQoL 10 years later for either cohort.ConclusionsOHRQoL seems to be a substantial predictor of subjective well‐being in quinquagenarians and septuagenarians across the rather long observational period. Further studies with larger sample sizes are required to confirm this finding.
Solid carcinoma is a variant of microcystic adnexal carcinoma: A 14‐case series
Authors: Llamas‐Velasco Mar , Pérez‐Gónzalez Yosmar Carolina , Bosch‐Príncep Ramon , Fernández‐Figueras María‐Teresa , Rütten Arno 
Published: September 2018

BackgroundSolid carcinoma is a poorly characterized malignant apocrine neoplasm as only 16 cases have been published.ObjectiveTo characterize its clinical, histopathological, and immunohistochemical features.MethodsWe compiled 14 cases of solid carcinoma and clinical information were updated. Hematoxylin and eosin slides were reviewed and we stained all the cases for CEA, EMA, SMA, PHLDA‐1, BerP4, nestin, p53, p63, p75, CK5/6, CK7 and some with remaining material for CK14, 15, CK10, CK19, S100, CD117, and CAM5.ResultsAll the lesions were located on the scalp. Histopathologically, all the cases were characterized by solid aggregates of neoplastic epithelial cells without nuclear atypia or mitotic figures involving all the dermis. All the cases presented perineural infiltration and most of them had cornified cystic structures. CK5/6 and p63 were positive. CEA and EMA underlined the scarce ducts. Ki67 was lower than 1%. BerEP4 and PHLDA‐1 were negative.ConclusionSolid carcinoma is a solid variant of MAC affecting the scalp more frequently than classic MAC, mostly in old males and showing variable‐sized nests involving the entire dermis and composed by poroid, clear‐cells, or a mixture of both. It is positive for p63 and CK5/6 and negative for BerEP4 and PHLDA‐1. Staining features with CK19 and PHLDA1 differ from classic MAC.
Mystery of rhythmic signal emergence within the suprachiasmatic nuclei
Authors: Sumová Alena , Čečmanová Vendula 
Published: September 2018

AbstractThe circadian system provides organisms with a temporal organization that optimizes their adaptation to environmental fluctuations on a 24‐hr basis. In mammals, the circadian clock in the suprachiasmatic nuclei (SCN) develops during the perinatal period. The rhythmicity first appears at the level of individual SCN neurons during the fetal stage, and this step is often misinterpreted as the time of complete SCN clock development. However, the process is only finalized when the SCN begin to play a role of the central clock in the body, that is, when they are able to generate robust rhythmicity at the cell population level, entrain the rhythmic signal with external light‐dark cycles and convey this signal to the rest of the body. The development is gradual and correlates with morphological maturation of the SCN structural complexity, which is based on intercellular network formation. The aim of this review is to summarize events related to the first emergence of circadian oscillations in the fetal SCN clock. Although a large amount of data on ontogenesis of the circadian system have been accumulated, how exactly the immature SCN converts into a functional central clock has still remained rather elusive. In this review, the hypothesis of how the SCN attains its rhythmicity at the tissue level is discussed in context with the recent advances in the field. For an extensive summary of the complete ontogenetic development of the circadian system, the readers are referred to other previously published reviews.
The hedging benefits of industrial and global diversification: Evidence from economic downturns
Authors: Liu Yixin , Mauer David C. , Zhang Yilei 
Published: September 2018

AbstractIn a large panel of US firms, we find that discounts for industrial and global diversification significantly decrease in economic downturns, suggesting a valuable hedging benefit of diversification. This finding is robust to a wide variety of business cycle and economic uncertainty variables and persists when we account for endogeneity of industrial and global diversification. We further analyze the channels through which diversification is more valuable in economic downturns. We find that the value improvement is largely explained by increases in investment and product market performance relative to focused firms. There is no evidence that improved internal capital market efficiency or access to external finance contribute to the hedging value of diversification.
Tooth loss in periodontally compromised patients: Results 20 years after active periodontal therapy
Authors: Pretzl Bernadette , El Sayed Shirin , Weber Dorothea , Eickholz Peter , Bäumer Amelie 
Published: September 2018

AbstractAimTo assess tooth loss in periodontally compromised patients 20 years after active periodontal therapy (APT) and to detect potential influencing factors for tooth loss on patient level.Material and MethodsFrom a total of 100 patients, who were re‐evaluated ten years after APT, 70 could be re‐examined 20 years ± 12 months after APT. Tooth loss during 20 years was detected and based on regression analyses the impact of patient‐levelled factors was estimated.ResultsOf 1.639 teeth, 201 were lost (mean 2.87 teeth/patient, range 0–19 teeth, SD 3.49), resulting in a mean tooth loss rate of 0.14 teeth/patient/year during 20 years. Mean tooth loss per patient was higher during the second ten years of supportive periodontal therapy (SPT) compared to the first (1.20 vs. 1.67 teeth/patient). As influencing factors age (p < 0.001), smoking (p < 0.001), compliance to SPT (p < 0.001), marital status (p < 0.001), presence of diabetes (p < 0.001) and heart diseases (p = 0.001) could be detected.ConclusionOver 20 years of follow‐up, a low number of teeth were lost in mostly severely compromised periodontal patients. Smoking, non‐compliance to SPT, age, living as a single and systemic diseases like diabetes or cardiovascular diseases negatively influence tooth loss on the long run.