bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
In vivocalcium imaging visualizes peripheral neuron sensitization in murine osteoarthritis
Authors: Miller Rachel E. , Kim Yu Shin , Tran Phuong B. , Dong Xinzhong , Miller Richard J. , Malfait Anne-Marie 
Published: July 2017

AbstractObjectiveThe purpose of this study was to develop a method for analyzing sensory neuron responses to mechanical stimuliin vivo, and to evaluate whether these neuronal responses change after destabilization of the medial meniscus (DMM).MethodsDMM or sham surgery was performed in 10-week old male C57BL/6 wild-type or Pirt-GCaMP3+/−mice. All experiments were performed eight weeks after surgery. Knee and hind paw hyperalgesia were assessed in wild-type mice. The retrograde label DiI was injected into the ipsilateral knee to quantify the number of knee-innervating neurons in the L4 dorsal root ganglion (DRG) in wild-type mice.In vivocalcium imaging was performed on the ipsilateral L4 DRG of Pirt-GCaMP3+/−mice as mechanical stimuli (paw pinch, knee pinch, knee twist) were applied to the ipsilateral hind limb.ResultsEight weeks after surgery, DMM mice had more hyperalgesia in the knee and hind paw compared to sham mice. Intra-articular injection of DiI labeled similar numbers of neurons in the L4 DRG of sham and DMM mice. Increased numbers of sensory neurons responded to all three mechanical stimuli in DMM mice, as assessed byin vivocalcium imaging. The majority of responses in sham and DMM mice were in small-to-medium-sized neurons, consistent with the size of nociceptors. The magnitude of responses was similar between sham and DMM mice.ConclusionsWe demonstrated that increased numbers of small-to-medium sized DRG neurons respond to mechanical stimuli 8 weeks after DMM surgery, suggesting that nociceptors have become sensitized by lowering the response threshold.
Fixed-time compliant motion/force control of robotic manipulators with environmental constraints
Authors: Ma Chao 
Published: July 2017

Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to design a new compliant motion/force control strategy for robotic manipulators with environmental constraints in the sense of fixed-time stability.

Design/methodology/approach
This paper investigates a novel compliant motion/force control strategy for robotic manipulators with environmental constraints. By using the Lyapunov theory and fixed-time stability theory, a non-singular terminal sliding mode manifold is first established. Then, the compliant motion/force controller is designed, and relevant conditions are given for guaranteeing that the robotic manipulator can track the prescribed constrained trajectory while exerting a desired force to the environment in fixed-time. An illustrative example is presented to show the effectiveness of our proposed control strategy.

Findings
Based on fixed-time stability theory, the desired compliant motion/force controller for robotic manipulators with environmental constraints is developed.

Originality/value
Compared with most existing literature, the proposed fixed-time compliant motion/force control strategy can provide the upper bound of the settling time independent of the initial conditions in designing procedure and is more practical for the real-world applications.
Development of a novel paediatric surgical assist robot for tissue manipulation in a narrow workspace
Authors: Liu Quanquan , Shi Chaoyang , Zhang Bo , Wang Chunbao , Duan Lihong , Sun Tongyang , Zhang Xin , Li Weiguang , Wu Zhengzhi , Fujie Masakatsu G. 
Published: July 2017

Purpose
Paediatric congenital esophageal atresia surgery typically requires delicate and dexterous operations in a narrow and confined workspace. This study aims to develop a novel robot assisted surgical system to address these challenges.

Design/methodology/approach
The proposed surgical robot consists of two symmetrical slave arms with nine degree of freedoms each. Each slave arm uses a rigid-dexterous configuration and consists of a coarse positioning manipulator and a distal fine operation manipulator. A small Selective Compliance Assembly Robot Arm (SCARA) mechanism was designed to form the main component of the coarse positioning unit, ensuring to endure large forces along the vertical direction and meet the operational demands. The fine positioning manipulator applied the novel design using flexible shafts and universal joints to achieve delicate operations while possessing a high rigidity. The corresponding kinematics has been derived and then was validated by a co-simulation that was performed based on the combined use of Adams and MATLAB with considering the real robot mass information. Experimental evaluations for the tip positioning accuracy and the ring transfer tasks have been performed.

Findings
The simulation was performed to verify the correctness of the derived inverse kinematics and demonstrated the robot’s flexibility. The experimental results illustrated that the end-effector can achieve a positioning accuracy within 1.5 mm in a confined 30 × 30 × 30 mm workspace. The ring transfer task demonstrated that the surgical robot is capable of providing a solution for dexterous tissue intervention in a narrow workspace for paediatric surgery.

Originality/value
A novel and compact surgical assist robot is developed to support delicate operations by using the dexterous slave arm. The slave arm consists of a SCARA mechanism to avoid experiencing overload in the vertical direction and a tool manipulator driven by flexible shafts and universal joints to provide high dexterity for operating in a narrow workspace.
Accounting, auditing and accountability research in Africa
Authors: Nyamori Robert Ochoki , Abdul-Rahaman Abu Shiraz , Samkin Grant 
Published: July 2017

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to discuss developments in governance in Africa and the opportunities this offers to accounting, auditing and accountability researchers. The paper also provides an overview of the other contributions in this accounting, auditing and accountability special issue.Design/methodology/approachThis paper provides a contemporary literature review on governance and accountability in Africa, identifying the key developments in public sector reform and the research gaps that still need to be filled. While the paper focuses on Sub-Saharan Africa, the authors draw on examples from Ghana, Kenya, and South Africa – geographically representing east, west, and south of the continent.FindingsThe paper finds that governance has emerged as a crucial issue that has a significant effect on the economic development of African countries. This has been associated with a myriad of reforms which range from anti-corruption measures to public financial management reforms. The authors find that the implementation and effects of these reforms have not been adequately researched by accounting scholars.Research limitations/implicationsThis is a review of a limited literature. Empirical research and a more comprehensive review of the literature from public administration and other disciplines might provide other new insights for research on governance in Africa. A further limitation is that the study has focused on a review of the most recent reforms while earlier reforms should be of particular interest to accounting historians.Originality/valueThis paper and other contributions to this special issue ofAAAJprovide a basis and an agenda for accounting scholars seeking to undertake interdisciplinary research on Africa.
Moderators of telework effects on the work-family conflict and on worker performance
Authors: Solís Martín 
Published: July 2017

PurposeThe relations telework-work interference with the family (WIF), telework-family interference with work (FIW), and telework-performance have been widely studied; however, results of different investigations are contradictory. This may be related to third variables that moderate the effect of relations. The purpose of this paper is to analyze the moderating effect of worker responsibilities outside of the work environment on telework-FIW and telework-WIF relations, as well as the moderating effect of control by the supervisor on teleworkers in the telework-performance relation.Design/methodology/approachA total of 92 teleworkers were interviewed, and 72 non-teleworkers who work in four public institutions. Non-teleworkers work in the same departments as teleworkers, and carry out similar functions. In addition, 33 supervisors were interviewed who evaluated performance of both groups. Hierarchical lineal regression analysis models were used to evaluate the influence of telework on the dependent variables.FindingsThe results obtained reveal that where there are low-responsibility levels, teleworkers present a lower FIW than non-teleworkers; however, with high levels of responsibility, teleworkers show higher FIW. Additionally, supervisors’ control of teleworkers was found to have a negative effect on their pro-activity and adaptability to tasks.Originality/valueThe findings provide new empirical evidence about the effect of moderating variables in the relation between telework-work-family conflict and telework-performance. Besides the results provide practical and useful implications to organizations that implement telework programs.
Parametric study and performance improvement of regenerative flow pump considering the modification in blade and casing geometry
Authors: Nejad Jafar , Riasi Alireza , Nourbakhsh Ahmad 
Published: July 2017

Purpose
Regenerative flow pump (RFP) is a rotodynamic turbomachine capable of developing high pressure rise at low flow rates. This paper aims to numerically investigate the performance of a regenerative pump considering the modification in blade and casing geometry.

Design/methodology/approach
The radial blade shape was changed to the bucket form and a core is added to flow path. A parametric study was performed to improve the performance of the pump. Thus, the effect of change in blade angle, chord, height, pitch to chord ratio and also inlet port on the performance of RFP was investigated.

Findings
Results showed that the modified blade angle to achieve the maximum efficiency is about 41 degree. Also, the most efficient point occurs close to pitch/chord = 0.4 and by reducing the axial chord, efficiency of the pump increases. It was found that better efficiency will be achieved by increasing the “Arc of admission”, but there are limitations of manufacturing. It was observed that the performance curves shifted towards lower flow coefficients by reducing height of blades.

Originality/value
To improve the characteristics of regenerative pump, the blade shape changed to the bucket form (airfoil blades with identical inlet and outlet angle) and a core is added to flow path. A parametric study has been accomplished to see the influence of some important parameters on the performance of the pump.
Information and involvement: the influence on the acceptance of innovative wine packaging
Authors: Nesselhauf Lucas , Deker Johannes S. , Fleuchaus Ruth 
Published: July 2017

Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to show that consumer education in the form of information can effectively overcome adoption barriers to new and innovative wine packaging. This effectiveness depends on both the degree in packaging innovation and the level of consumer involvement.

Design/methodology/approach
The paper is based on an online experiment conducted with a sample of 427 German consumers to analyse the perception of consumers about innovative packaging. The experiment featured three different packaging options: bottles with screw-cap closures, bag-in-box and StackTek®. For each packaging form, a treatment group with additional information about the packaging and a reference group without this information were surveyed. ANOVA and t-tests were carried out to test the hypotheses. A moderated regression analysis was used to examine the effect of involvement in combination with information on intention to buy.

Findings
The results revealed that low-involvement consumers react positively to additional information about the benefits of a new packaging. For highly involved consumers, however, the effect of information is not significant. Furthermore, the analysis showed that low-involvement consumers mainly buy wine in supermarkets.

Practical implications
Information about new packaging forms should be presented in places where low-involvement consumers buy wine, such as at supermarkets. These consumers can be influenced by the additional information about the innovative packaging.

Originality/value
The use of a moderated regression analysis in the context of wine packaging and involvement is a first and reveals new and valuable insights.
Macroeconomic determinants of wine prices
Authors: Jiao Linda 
Published: July 2017

Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to identify the macroeconomic determinants of fine-wine prices and estimate their impacts.

Design/methodology/approach
The author models the Liv-ex fine-wine price indices with the macroeconomic variables of emerging and developed markets on a monthly basis from 1996 to 2015.

Findings
The demand from emerging markets plays a key role in fine-wine pricing and, more precisely, in the price fluctuation of prestige Bordeaux wines. Furthermore, the continuous weakening of the US dollar in real terms favors an increase in fine-wine prices. Since 2011, the slowdown in economic growth in emerging markets, followed by the depreciation of national currencies, has negatively affected the luxury wine market. Along with the process of financialization in the fine-wine market, prices have become more volatile. Factors such as money supply, real interest rates and the growth of investment funds have started to show their influence on fine-wine pricing.

Originality/value
Complementary to the hedonic price modeling, this research can provide an analysis to wine-price modeling and forecasting within the macroeconomic approach.
Do women perform better in family firms?
Authors: D’Amato Antonio 
Published: July 2017

PurposeEmpirical evidence on the relation between female involvement at the head of a company and firm performance remains inconclusive. This study aims to disentangle the existing evidence by exploring the moderating role of family firm status.Design/methodology/approachThe study analyzes the moderating role of family firm status on the relation between gender diversity and firm performance among a sample of 88 Italian wine firms from Campania region during the 2007-2014 period. This work uses random effects panel data regression and tests the robustness of the results using alternative econometric techniques. Performance is measured in terms of profitability.FindingsThe findings reveal that women in top positions do not affect firm performance. However, it is found that this relation is significantly moderated by family firm status. Specifically, compared to high family-controlled firms, female involvement negatively impacts firm performance in low family-controlled firms.Research limitations/implicationsFrom a theoretical standpoint, the results enable a more nuanced interpretation of the relationship between female involvement and firm performance. From a managerial perspective, the results highlight conditions that may promote the role of women in business.Originality/valueThis paper provides insights into the relation between gender diversity and firm performance by exploring the moderating role of family firm status – a novel approach in the management and wine business literature.
The Global Compact and its concrete effects
Authors: Coulmont Michel , Berthelot Sylvie , Paul Marc-Antoine 
Published: July 2017

Purpose
The purpose of this study is to document the concrete practices put in place by United Nations Global Compact (UNGC) affiliated firms and their application of the UNGC Communication on Progress (COP).

Design/methodology/approach
The paper examines the practices implemented by firms on the Fortune 500 list that have affiliated with the UNGC and issued a COP separate from their annual report or a sustainable development report. According to the UNGC, the COP policy sets out a description of practical actions the company has taken or plans to take to implement the ten principles.

Findings
The findings tend to show that firms affiliated with the UNGC use a variety of practices to integrate these principles. Many adopt policies based on an international standard relating to a UNGC principle. However, the reporting process supported by the UNGC does not seem to fully promote the widespread application of these practices.

Originality/value
The documentation of these practices will serve as a reference for any business interested in adopting the UNGC principles or for government and non-government organisations, including accounting standard setters, aiming to promote and support the universal principles on human rights, labour, the environment and anti-corruption. In addition, the study reveals weaknesses in the UNGC COP policy that could limit more extensive application of these practices.
Numerical modeling of structural frames with infills subjected to thermal exposure
Authors: Kumar Puneet , Srivastava Gaurav 
Published: July 2017

Purpose
Reinforced concrete structural frames with masonry infills (infill-frames) are commonly used for construction worldwide. While the behavior of such frames has been studied extensively in the context of earthquake loading, studies related to their fire performance are limited. Therefore, this study aims to characterize the behavior of infill-frames under fire exposure by presenting a state-of-the-art literature review of the same.

Design/methodology/approach
Both experimental and computational studies have been included with a special emphasis on numerical modeling (simplified as well as advanced). The cold behavior of the infill-frame and its design requirements in case of fire exposure are first reviewed to set the context. Subsequently, the applicability of numerical modeling strategies developed for modeling cold infill-frames to simulate their behavior under fire is critically examined.

Findings
The major hurdles in developing generic numerical models for analyzing thermo-mechanical behavior of infill-frames are identified as: lack of temperature-dependent material properties, scarcity of experimental studies for validation and idealizations in coupling between thermal and structural analysis.

Originality value
This study presents one of the most popular research problems connected with practical and reliable utilization of numerical models, as a good alternative to expensive traditional furnace testing, in assessing fire resistance of infill-frames. It highlights major challenges in thermo-mechanical modeling of infill-frames and critically reviews the available approaches for modeling infill-frames subjected to fire.
The core processes adopted for outsourcing HRM in Australia and its outcomes
Authors: Susomrith Pattanee , Brown Alan 
Published: July 2017

Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to discover the types of HR outsourcing processes employed by Australian organisations and their relationship to outsourcing outcomes.

Design/methodology/approach
This paper is based upon the results of a survey of medium to large Australian organisations. The survey data were analysed using quantitative analysis to extract the types of HR outsourcing processes, outcomes, and their relationship.

Findings
The analyses identified three types of HR outsourcing processes: screening and selecting, strategic fit, and managing and monitoring. The “strategic fit” process exhibited the strongest relationship to the HR outsourcing outcome followed by the “managing and monitoring” process. The “screening and selecting” did not correlate with HR outsourcing outcome. For each type of HR outsourcing process no correlation was found with the outsourced HR functions. It was found that the most important criteria for selecting an outsourced service provider were trustworthiness, reputation in the industry, cost structure, and history with the organisation. The least important criteria were the service provider’s financial position and cultural similarity with the organisation.

Research limitations/implications
The research design acquired information from a single participant from each organisation which may result in a one-dimensional view. In addition, the data were collected from Australian organisations limiting its generalisation globally. Environmental and political factors were not included in the study. Therefore, researchers are encouraged to consider the influence of these factors on the HR outsourcing process.

Practical implications
The discovered HR outsourcing processes, although different from the generic HR outsourcing model, can be used by organisations to outsource HR functions in a more efficient and effective manner within the Australian context. The research results also indicate the importance for service providers to develop a good reputation and establish trust.

Originality/value
This study is the first quantitative research that determines the specific HR outsourcing processes and how they related to the HR outsourcing outcome in medium to large Australian organisations. The identification of these process types is unique and useful in validating and refining HR outsourcing knowledge within the Australian context.
A comparative study of entrepreneurship education between Singapore and Taiwan
Authors: Yu Min-Chun , Goh Mark , Kao Hao-Yun , Wu Wen-Hsiung 
Published: July 2017

Purpose
For entrepreneurship education issue, the purpose of this paper is to apply a novel four-step method of comparative education research and assessment items for university-based entrepreneurship ecosystems (U-BEEs), with a specific focus on universities in Taiwan and Singapore. In this paper, entrepreneurship education development is explored, and important implications for the further improvement of entrepreneurship education are provided.

Design/methodology/approach
This study is based on the comparative education research method and proceeds in four steps (i.e. description, interpretation, juxtaposition, and comparison). The U-BEE items are applied to exemplify the similarities and differences of the process by which entrepreneurship education developed in two universities each in Singapore (National University of Singapore and Nanyang Technological University) and Taiwan (National Taiwan University and National Tsing Hua University).

Findings
From the country-based standpoint, the findings include considering broader factors (i.e. history, education) in such a comparison of the similarities and differences among four universities, reflecting the reality in the Asian region and introducing the method application of comparative education research for the first time in entrepreneurship education. From holistic and specific perspectives of U-BEE, the findings consist of presenting similarities and differences based on the comparisons of each item and showing the classified findings.

Originality/value
This study provides helpful insights based on the perspectives of academics and practitioners. First, the authors urge the necessity of the theoretical base of teaching and learning in education when universities plan for entrepreneurship education. Second, the authors stress the critical impact of the government on the execution of entrepreneurship education in the higher education context.