bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Institutional framework in developing economies
Authors: Okello Candiya Bongomin George , Akol Malinga Charles , Munene John C. , Mpeera Ntayi Joseph
Published: March 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to establish the relationship between institutional framework of regulative (formal rules), normative (informal norms) and cultural-cognitive (cognition), and their effects on financial intermediation by microfinance deposit taking institutions (MDIs) in developing economies like Uganda.

Design/methodology/approach

Data collected from a total sample of 400 poor households and 40 relationship officers located in rural Uganda were processed using statistical package for social sciences and analysis of moment structures to establish the relationship between institutional framework of regulative, normative and cultural-cognitive, and their effects on financial intermediation by MDIs in developing economies.

Findings

The results showed that the three dimensions of regulative (formal rules), normative (informal norms) and cultural-cognitive (cognition) significantly affect financial intermediation by MDIs in developing economies like Uganda. In addition, as a unique finding, two new dimensions of procedural and declarative cognition emerged from cultural-cognitive framework to determine financial intermediation among MDIs in developing economies, specifically in Uganda.

Research limitations/implications

The study collected data from only poor households and relationship officers located in rural Uganda. It ignored peri-urban and urban areas in Uganda. In addition, the study focused only on MDIs and ignored other financial institutions. Besides, the study was purely quantitative, therefore, further research through interviews may be useful in future. Furthermore, the study was carried out in rural Uganda as a developing economy. Thus, future research using the same variables in other developing economies may be useful.

Practical implications

Managers of financial institutions and policy makers should know that market functions of financial intermediaries in developing economies are promoted by institutional framework of regulative, normative and procedural and declarative cognition that lowers transaction cost and promotes information sharing. Therefore, more efforts should be directed towards strengthening the existing institutional framework of regulative, normative and cognition to promote financial intermediation by financial institutions such as MDIs.

Originality/value

This paper is the first to test the relationship between institutional framework and their effects on financial intermediation by MDIs in developing economies. The results revealed existence of two new factor structures of procedural and declarative cognition in explaining financial intermediation by MDIs in developing economies like Uganda. This is sparse in financial intermediation literature and theory.
Household leverage and consumption during the Great Depression
Authors: Abildgren Kim
Published: March 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to explore the impact of household leverage on consumption in Denmark during the Great Depression in the 1930s.

Design/methodology/approach

A range of consumption functions are estimated on the basis of household-level data from the Expenditure and Saving Survey of 1931.

Findings

The estimations show significant negative marginal effects of various measures of leverage on homeowners’ non-durable consumption. The magnitude of the estimated effects suggests that leverage contributed significantly to the economic downturn during the Great Depression by depressing consumer spending of homeowners.

Practical implications

Gross debt levels of homeowners are not only of direct importance for financial stability but also have implications for macroeconomic stability, which again might affect the stability of the financial system. These findings seem to be in line with the focus on household leverage in the macroprudential oversight performed by regulators and central banks in many countries.

Originality/value

This paper is the first study of the leverage channel in the private consumption function using household micro data from the Great Depression.
Impact of regulatory reforms on compliance with mandatory disclosures by savings and credit co-operatives in Kenya
Authors: Mathuva David Mutua , Chong H. Gin
Published: March 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to utilize institutional theory to examine the impact of the 2008-2010 regulatory reforms on compliance with mandatory disclosures by savings and credit co-operatives (SACCOs) in Kenya.

Design/methodology/approach

Two-stage least squares panel regression approach is utilized to analyse data covering 1,272 firm-year observations for 212 SACCOs over a six-year period, 2008-2013. An analysis of the pre- and post-regulation impacts on compliance with mandatory disclosure requirements is also performed.

Findings

The results, which are in support of the institutional theory, reveal that licensed SACCOs engage in higher compliance with mandatory disclosures, and this improves from the pre- to the post-regulation period. The results show that SACCOs under inquiry engage in lower compliance with mandatory disclosure requirements, especially in the post-regulation period. The findings also reveal a significant and positive association between SACCO size, co-operative governance and compliance with mandatory disclosure requirements.

Research limitations/implications

The study focuses on transition-level SACCOs in a single country. An extension into other jurisdictions with nascent, transitional and mature SACCOs would provide greater insights into the impact of disclosure regulation. Further, the study uses a self-constructed disclosure checklist which is subject to coding errors and biases.

Practical implications

The findings highlight the need for SACCO regulators and accounting professional body to devise incentives to improve the level of compliance with required disclosures.

Originality/value

The study contributes to the dearth of evidence on the efficacy of the introduction of mandatory disclosure requirements in a developing country where compliance is problematic because of difficulties with enforcement.
A game theoretic approach to optimal pricing of flights and passengers at congested airports
Authors: Taleizadeh Ata Allah , Jalali Moeen Sammak , Sana Shib Sankar
Published: March 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to embark a mathematical model based on investigation and comparison of airport pricing policies under various types of competition, considering both per-passenger and per-flight charges at congested airports.

Design/methodology/approach

In this model, four-game theoretic strategies are assessed and closed-form formulas have been proved for each of the mentioned strategies. Numerical examples and graphical representations of the optimal solutions are provided to illustrate the models.

Findings

The rectitude of the presented formulas is evaluated with sensitivity analysis and numerical examples have been put forward. Finally, managerial implications are suggested by means of the proposed analysis.

Research limitations/implications

The represented model is inherently limited to investigate all the available and influential factors in the field of congestion pricing. With this regard, several studies can be implemented as the future research of this study. The applications of other game theoretic approaches such as Cartel games and its combination with the four mentioned games seem to be worthwhile. Moreover, it is recommended to investigate the effectiveness of the proposed model and formulations with a large-scale database.

Originality/value

The authors formulate a novel strategy that put forwards a four-game theoretic strategy, which helps managers to select the best suitable ones for their specific airline and/or air traveling companies. The authors find that by means of the proposed model, the application of Stackelberg–Bertrand behavior in the field of airport congestion pricing will rebound to a more profitable strategy in contrast with the other three represented methods.
Toward a national participation index for developing countries in the global value chains
Authors: Ahmed Faisal , Kumar Pravin
Published: March 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to identify factors which influence participation of developing countries in the global value chains (GVC) and to present a mathematical modeling technique to calculate a “National Participation Index of a developing country in the GVC” (hereinafter referred to as G-NPI).

Design/methodology/approach

The paper identifies 17 factors, encompassing both country-specific and firm-specific considerations that influence a developing countries’ participation in the GVCs. These factors have been grouped into four sets of enablers, namely, macroeconomic, geo-economic, strategic and geopolitical. The national participation index (G-NPI) has been calculated using the graph theoretic modeling approach.

Findings

Besides identifying the factors of a developing country’s participation in the GVC and grouping them as enablers, the paper considers the case of India as an example and assesses the level of interactions within (i.e. among various factors of a given enabler) and among these enablers (leading to a G-NPI value) using graph theory.

Practical implications

The findings can be used to calculate G-NPI for different countries to ascertain their potential for participation and also to find the factors(s) which may be deterring their participation in the GVCs.

Social implications

This paper can help in policy advocacy to enhance the competitiveness of developing countries and consequently to improve the life of their consumers.

Originality/value

This paper introduces the concept of G-NPI and presents a unique way of assessing a developing country’s participation in the GVCs through a mathematical modeling approach.
Procedural fairness concerns in supply chain with retailer promotional effort
Authors: Nie Tengfei , Liu Hualin , Dong Yilun , Du Shaofu
Published: March 2018

Purpose

The existing literature has a lack of modeling of procedural fairness concerns in the supply chain level. This paper aims to investigate how procedural fairness concerns affect channel decisions, performance and coordination.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper considers a supply chain consisting of one supplier and one retailer who have procedural fairness concerns in a classic Stackelberg game setting. The model is set in sales promotional environment. According to the existing literature, engagement is used to depict fair process. Some findings are made through analyzing respective decisions of the supplier and the retailer under the influence of procedural fairness concerns.

Findings

The results show that the channel efficiency can be improved when the retailer exhibits procedural fairness concerns, but if the aversion to unfair process exceeds a certain threshold, the retailer cannot benefit from it. Besides, the retailer profits more when he cares about distributional fairness, although the whole channel surplus can be improved by procedural fairness concerns.

Originality/value

This is the first paper to study the influences of procedural fairness concerns on supply chain decisions and channel performance. Finally, a mechanism combining a wholesale price contract with slotting allowances is proposed to coordinate the supply chain.
Knowledge strategy, sharing behavior and performance
Authors: Singh Pooja K.
Published: March 2018

Purpose

The study aims to examine the effect of knowledge management strategy (KMS) on knowledge-sharing behavior (KSB) and its subsequent effect on knowledge performance (KP). It also throws light on the mediating role of KM enablers (KMEs) and KSB.

Design/methodology/approach

In purview of previous literature, several hypotheses were framed. Structural equation modeling (SEM) using SPSS 20, PROCESS macro and AMOS 20 was used to examine the research hypotheses in a sample of empirical data collected from 350 employees of information technology (IT) service provider firms.

Findings

This paper empirically proves the existence of mediation effect of the proposed mediators (KME, KSB) between predictors (KMS, KSB) and outcomes (KSB, KP) in different hypothesized relationships. Result provides empirical evidence toward the positive influence of KMS dimensions (internal-oriented KMS, external-oriented KMS) on KSB and also confirms the influence of KSB on KP.

Research limitations/implications

This study examines the effect of KMS and KSB on KP with reference to the IT sector, thereby limiting generalization to other sectors. Practical and managerial implications have been discussed in the later sections of the study.

Originality/value

This study adds value to the existing KM literature by adjoining the links among knowledge strategy, sharing behavior and performance.
Oil and Iron Ore Price Shocks: What Are the Different Economic Effects in Australia?
Authors: Hoang Nam T. , Nguyen Bao H.
Published: March 2018

This paper compares the macroeconomic effects of global oil and iron ore price shocks on the Australian economy. Using a Bayesian structural vector autoregression model with sign restrictions, we identify three types of shock: supply, demand and specific demand. The main results suggest that, over the period from 1990Q1 to 2014Q4, the oil shock had a relative larger impact than the iron ore shock on output and inflation, while the iron ore shock was the dominant source of interest and exchange rate movements. The effects crucially depend on the underlying sources of oil or iron ore price shifts. As Australia is a small open economy, oil and iron ore prices should be treated as exogenous factors. Real GDP responds negatively to a rise in oil prices driven by supply disruptions, but positively to a similar shock on the iron ore market. Higher global demand for these commodities has a positive impact on the economy, but the iron ore demand shock is about twice larger. However, a positive oil and iron ore price shock driven by specific demand lead to a temporary decline in real GDP.
The potential of plant microbiota in reducing postharvest food loss
Authors: Buchholz Franziska , Kostić Tanja , Sessitsch Angela , Mitter Birgit
Published: March 2018

The role of the plant microbiota in plant establishment, growth and health is well studied, but the dynamics of postharvest crop microbiota and its role in postharvest crop quality are largely unexplored, although food loss is an enormous issue worldwide. The microbiota might be especially important during crop storage by either preventing or favouring rots, or quality loss due to, for example, sprouting, saccharification, water loss or spoilage. We need more research on plant–microbe interactions in postharvest crops to be in future able to provide microbial solutions for plant production along the whole food chain from field to fork.
Prognostic role of circulating tumor cells in patients with EGFR‐mutated or ALK‐rearranged non‐small cell lung cancer
Authors: Tong Bing , Xu Yan , Zhao Jing , Chen Minjiang , Zhong Wei , Xing Jia , Wang Mengzhao
Published: March 2018

Background

Circulating tumor cell (CTC) counts at baseline and follow‐up are an independent prognostic factor in patients receiving standard chemotherapy for non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). This study further explored the role of CTCs in EGFR‐mutated and ALK‐rearranged NSCLC patients administered targeted therapies as first‐line treatment.

Methods

CTCs were enumerated with a novel high‐efficiency detection method from the blood of 43 patients with EGFR‐mutated or ALK‐rearranged NSCLC at baseline and at disease‐progression. Patients were stratified into favorable and unfavorable groups with baseline CTC counts of < 8 or ≥ 8 CTCs/3.2 mL, respectively.

Results

A total of 76.7% of the patients were positive for ≥ 2 CTCs /3.2 ml blood at baseline. The median progression‐free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) rates of the favorable compared to the unfavorable group were longer (11.6 vs. 8.5 months, P = 0.004 for PFS; 21.00 vs. 17.7 months, P = 0.013 for OS). Multivariate analysis demonstrated that baseline CTC count was a strong predictor of PFS (hazard ratio 2.835; 95% confidence interval 1.240–6.483; P = 0.014) and OS (hazard ratio 3.317; 95% confidence interval 1.360–8.092; P = 0.008).

Conclusion

Baseline CTC count could be a predictive biomarker for EGFR‐mutated and ALK‐rearranged NSCLCs, which allows for better guidance and monitoring of patients over the course of molecular targeted therapies.
Body fat reduction without cardiovascular changes in mice after oral treatment with the MAO inhibitor phenelzine
Authors: Carpéné Christian , Mercader Josep , Le Gonidec Sophie , Schaak Stéphane , Mialet‐Perez Jeanne , Zakaroff‐Girard Alexia , Galitzky Jean
Published: March 2018

Background and Purpose

Phenelzine is an antidepressant drug known to increase the risk of hypertensive crisis when dietary tyramine is not restricted. However, this MAO inhibitor inhibits other enzymes not limited to the nervous system. Here we investigated if its antiadipogenic and antilipogenic effects in cultured adipocytes could contribute to decreased body fat in vivo, without unwanted hypertensive or cardiovascular effects.

Experimental Approach

Mice were fed a standard chow and given 0.028% phenelzine in drinking water for 12 weeks. Body composition was determined by NMR. Cardiovascular dysfunction was assessed by heart rate variability analyses and by evaluation of cardiac oxidative stress markers. MAO activity, hydrogen peroxide release and triacylglycerol turnover were assayed in white adipose tissue (WAT), alongside determination of glucose and lipid circulating levels.

Key Results

Phenelzine‐treated mice exhibited lower body fat content, subcutaneous WAT mass and lipid content in skeletal muscles than control, without decreased body weight gain or food consumption. A modest alteration of cardiac sympathovagal balance occurred without depressed aconitase activity. In WAT, phenelzine impaired the lipogenic but not the antilipolytic actions of insulin, MAO activity and hydrogen peroxide release. Phenelzine treatment lowered non‐fasting blood glucose and phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase expression. In vitro, high doses of phenelzine decreased both lipolytic and lipogenic responses in mouse adipocytes.

Conclusion and Implications

As phenelzine reduced body fat content without affecting cardiovascular function in mice, it may be of benefit in the treatment of obesity‐associated complications, with the precautions of use recommended for antidepressant therapy.
The novel μ‐opioid receptor agonist PZM21 depresses respiration and induces tolerance to antinociception
Authors: Hill Rob , Disney Alex , Conibear Alex , Sutcliffe Katy , Dewey William , Husbands Stephen , Bailey Chris , Kelly Eamonn , Henderson Graeme
Published: March 2018

Background and Purpose

PZM21 is a novel μ‐opioid receptor ligand that has been reported to induce minimal arrestin recruitment and be devoid of the respiratory depressant effects characteristic of classical μ receptor ligands such as morphine. We have re‐examined the signalling profile of PZM21 and its ability to depress respiration.

Experimental Approach

G protein (Gi) activation and arrestin‐3 translocation were measured in vitro, using BRET assays, in HEK 293 cells expressing μ receptors. Respiration (rate and tidal volume) was measured in awake, freely moving mice by whole‐body plethysmography, and antinociception was measured by the hot plate test.

Key Results

PZM21 (10−9 – 3 × 10−5 M) produced concentration‐dependent Gi activation and arrestin‐3 translocation. Comparison with responses evoked by morphine and DAMGO revealed that PZM21 was a low efficacy agonist in both signalling assays. PZM21 (10–80 mg·kg−1) depressed respiration in a dose‐dependent manner. The respiratory depression was due to a decrease in the rate of breathing not a decrease in tidal volume. On repeated daily administration of PZM21 (twice daily doses of 40 mg·kg−1), complete tolerance developed to the antinociceptive effect of PZM21 over 3 days but no tolerance developed to its respiratory depressant effect.

Conclusion and Implications

These data demonstrate that PZM21 is a low efficacy μ receptor agonist for both G protein and arrestin signalling. Contrary to a previous report, PZM21 depresses respiration in a manner similar to morphine, the classical opioid receptor agonist.
A neglected pool of labour? Frontline service work and hotel recruitment in Glasgow
Authors: Bolton Sharon C. , Laaser Knut , McGuire Darren , Duncan Ashley
Published: March 2018

The paper presented considers soft skills in the hospitality sector and explores how managers in four hotels in Glasgow, Scotland enact recruitment and selection processes. Empirically, the analysis is based on a rich cross case comparison including interviews, observations, attendance at training events and analysis of hotels’ recruitment and selection policies. Conceptually, the analysis draws on the work of Pierre Bourdieu and Andrew Sayer, portraying an understanding of social class as a social, economic, and cultural category and people's agency as shaped by their habitus and lay normativity. Crucially, the paper reveals the pivotal role individual managers play in enabling and constraining opportunities for employment in the enactment of hotel recruitment policy and engagement with job applicants and new recruits. Overall, the analysis suggests that, despite many deterministic analyses of class, an organization's recruitment, learning and development strategies, plus management's commitment to make a difference, can positively impact on those who might otherwise be part of a neglected pool of labour.
Gendered places: Place, performativity and flânerie in the City of London
Authors: Nash Louise
Published: March 2018

This article is concerned with the relationship between gender performativity and organizational place, taking the City of London as the focus for the empirical research, and extending a Lefebvrian understanding of space through the practice of flânerie. The article explores how the City is imagined, constructed and experienced in and through gender performativity. This is explored with reference to fieldwork including photographic and interview data, as well as through an embodied, immersive methodology based on the observational tradition of flânerie, showing how this can help to both sense and make sense of organizational place, particularly in terms of how such places can compel feelings of belonging or non‐belonging. The research looks beyond the spatial configuration of a single organization to encompass the wider geographical location of multiple organizations, in this case the City. The analysis highlights the interplay between two dominant forms of masculinity, emphasizing how the setting both reflects and affects this interplay. In this way the article contributes to scholarship on organizational place and the placing of gender performativity, and extends Lefebvre's theories of space as socially produced by (re)producing the City through peripatetic practice based on the tradition of the flậneur.
Modulation of the nutritional value of lupine wholemeal and protein isolates using submerged and solid‐state fermentation with Pediococcus pentosaceus strains
Authors: Bartkiene Elena , Sakiene Vytaute , Bartkevics Vadims , Juodeikiene Grazina , Lele Vita , Wiacek Claudia , Braun Peggy G.
Published: March 2018

The influence of different factors (submerged and/or solid‐state fermentation, pediococci strain, lupine variety and protein isolation process) on the protein digestibility, total phenolic compounds (TPC) content and radical scavenging activity of Lupinus luteus and angustifolius wholemeal and protein isolates was evaluated. As safety factor, biogenic amines (Bas) formation was analysed. The Pediococcus pentosaceus strains No. 8, No. 9 and No. 10 are suitable starters for lupine wholemeal fermentation and both applied processes (fermentation and protein isolation) increase protein digestibility (by 10%). Higher TPC content in fermented wholemeal can be obtained, compare to isolates. In SMF isolates by 58.3%, 68.2%, 95.6%, 76.6%, lower content of phenylethylamine, putrescine, cadaverine and histamine, respectively was found. The highest protein digestibility and the lowest BAs content using submerged fermentation with pediococcus No. 8 in lupine variety Vilnius protein isolates can be obtained and this technology for high‐quality lupine proteins preparation can be recommended.
Targeting Alzheimer's disease with gene and cell therapies
Authors: Loera‐Valencia R. , Piras A. , Ismail M. A. M. , Manchanda S. , Eyjolfsdottir H. , Saido T. C. , Johansson J. , Eriksdotter M. , Winblad B. , Nilsson P.
Published: March 2018

Alzheimer's disease (AD) causes dementia in both young and old people affecting more than 40 million people worldwide. The two neuropathological hallmarks of the disease, amyloid beta (Aβ) plaques and neurofibrillary tangles consisting of protein tau are considered the major contributors to the disease. However, a more complete picture reveals significant neurodegeneration and decreased cell survival, neuroinflammation, changes in protein and energy homeostasis and alterations in lipid and cholesterol metabolism. In addition, gene and cell therapies for severe neurodegenerative disorders have recently improved technically in terms of safety and efficiency and have translated to the clinic showing encouraging results. Here, we review broadly current data within the field for potential targets that could modify AD through gene and cell therapy strategies. We envision that not only Aβ will be targeted in a disease‐modifying treatment strategy but rather that a combination of treatments, possibly at different intervention times may prove beneficial in curing this devastating disease. These include decreased tau pathology, neuronal growth factors to support neurons and modulation of neuroinflammation for an appropriate immune response. Furthermore, cell based therapies may represent potential strategies in the future.
Synthesis and biological evaluation of novel cyclopropyl derivatives as subtype-selective ligands for estrogen receptor
Authors: Wang Zunyuan , Yang Yewei , Zheng Xiaoliang , Zhang Tao , Huang Wenhai , Yan Dongmei , Zhang Wenjun , Wang Xiaoju , Shen Zhengrong
Published: March 2018

Objectives

Tamoxifen is the most commonly used selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs); however, patients often develop the acquired drug resistance on tamoxifen therapy. The aim of this study was to develop new SERMs.

Methods

Several novel cyclopropyl derivatives were designed and synthesized. The binding affinities of these compounds as well as the selectivity on subtype of estrogen receptor (ER) were assessed by fluorescence polarization. The antagonistic activity was also evaluated by dual-luciferase reporter assay.

Key findings

Our data identified five compounds (9a, 9b, 9d, 9e and 9f) with a higher selectivity on ERα than ERβ subtype, warranting further development as a subtype-selective ER modulator. The study of antiestrogen activity also demonstrated that compounds 9a, 9c-f acted as full functional antagonists for ERα. These compounds had no or very low cytotoxicity.

Conclusions

Although these cyclopropyl derivatives showed lower binding affinities on ERs compared to 17β-estradiol, five of these compounds exhibited binding to ERα only and therefore might serve as a promising lead compound for further development of novel subtype-selective SERMs.
Combining long‐acting bronchodilators with different mechanisms of action: A pharmacological approach to optimize bronchodilation of equine airways
Authors: Calzetta L. , Rogliani P. , Pistocchini E. , Mattei M. , Cito G. , Alfonsi P. , Page C. , Matera M. G.
Published: March 2018

The ultra long‐acting β2‐adrenoceptor agonist olodaterol plus the ultra long‐acting muscarinic antagonist tiotropium bromide are known to relax equine airways. In human bronchi combining these drugs elicits a positive interaction, thus we aimed to characterize this information further in equine isolated airways stimulated by electrical field stimulation (EFS) and using the Concentration‐Reduction Index (CRI) and Combination Index (CI) equations. The drugs were administered alone and together by reproducing ex vivo the concentration‐ratio delivered by the currently available fixed‐dose combination (1:1). The single agents elicited a significant (p < .05) concentration‐dependent reduction in the EFS‐induced contractility, that was synergistically improved (CI 0.18) when administered in combination (0.9 logarithms more potent, 24% more effective than the monocomponents). The drugs mixture allowed a reduction in the concentration of olodaterol from ≃1 to ≃2.3 logarithms. A favorable CRI was detected also for tiotropium bromide, whose concentration can be reduced ≃1 logarithm at medium effect levels, remaining positive up to submaximal relaxant effect in the presence of olodaterol. The combination of tiotropium bromide/olodaterol allows the reduction in the concentration of the monocomponents to achieve airway smooth muscle relaxation, thus potentially decreases the risk of adverse events when these drugs are used to treat severe asthmatic horses.
Education on invasive mechanical ventilation involving intensive care nurses: a systematic review
Authors: Guilhermino Michelle C , Inder Kerry J , Sundin Deborah
Published: March 2018

Background

Intensive care unit nurses are critical for managing mechanical ventilation. Continuing education is essential in building and maintaining nurses' knowledge and skills, potentially improving patient outcomes.

Aims

The aim of this study was to determine whether continuing education programmes on invasive mechanical ventilation involving intensive care unit nurses are effective in improving patient outcomes.

Methods

Five electronic databases were searched from 2001 to 2016 using keywords such as mechanical ventilation, nursing and education. Inclusion criteria were invasive mechanical ventilation continuing education programmes that involved nurses and measured patient outcomes. Primary outcomes were intensive care unit mortality and in‐hospital mortality. Secondary outcomes included hospital and intensive care unit length of stay, length of intubation, failed weaning trials, re‐intubation incidence, ventilation‐associated pneumonia rate and lung‐protective ventilator strategies. Studies were excluded if they excluded nurses, patients were ventilated for less than 24 h, the education content focused on protocol implementation or oral care exclusively or the outcomes were participant satisfaction. Quality was assessed by two reviewers using an education intervention critical appraisal worksheet and a risk of bias assessment tool. Data were extracted independently by two reviewers and analysed narratively due to heterogeneity.

Results

Twelve studies met the inclusion criteria for full review: 11 pre‐ and post‐intervention observational and 1 quasi‐experimental design. Studies reported statistically significant reductions in hospital length of stay, length of intubation, ventilator‐associated pneumonia rates, failed weaning trials and improvements in lung‐protective ventilation compliance. Non‐statistically significant results were reported for in‐hospital and intensive care unit mortality, re‐intubation and intensive care unit length of stay.

Conclusion

Limited evidence of the effectiveness of continuing education programmes on mechanical ventilation involving nurses in improving patient outcomes exists. Comprehensive continuing education is required.

Relevance to clinical practice

Well‐designed trials are required to confirm that comprehensive continuing education involving intensive care nurses about mechanical ventilation improves patient outcomes.
Regulation of melanocyte stem cell behavior by the niche microenvironment
Authors: Li Huirong , Hou Ling
Published: March 2018

Somatic stem cells are regulated by their niches to maintain tissue homeostasis and repair throughout the lifetime of an organism. An excellent example to study stem cell/niche interactions is provided by the regeneration of melanocytes during the hair cycle and in response to various types of injury. These processes are regulated by neighboring stem cells and multiple signaling pathways, including WNT/β‐catenin, KITL/KIT, EDNs/EDNRB, TGF‐β/TGF‐βR, α‐MSH/MC1R, and Notch signaling. In this review, we highlight recent studies that have advanced our understanding of the molecular crosstalk between melanocyte stem cells and their neighboring cells, which collectively form the niche microenvironment, and we focus on the question of how McSCs/niche interactions shape the responses to genotoxic damages and mechanical injury.
Characterization of Porphyra lucasii pigment mutant induced by gamma irradiation
Authors: Lee Hak‐Jyung , Choi Jong‐il , Kim Gwang H.
Published: March 2018

The present study describes the isolation of a pigment mutant strain of Porphyra lucasii, which was obtained using gamma irradiation. Gametophytic blades of this seaweed were irradiated with gamma rays at doses of 500 and 1000 Gy. After irradiation, red color was observed in the blades exposed to the 500 Gy dose. Single somatic cells from these irradiated blades were isolated from archespores and then cultured to obtain pigment mutant blades that are referred to as 500GR in this investigation. Evaluation of genetic variations in these blades was performed using random amplification of polymorphic DNA (RAPD) analysis. Chlorophyll content, antioxidant activity, and total phenolic content were found to be higher in 500GR than in the wild type (WT) algal strain. Protein extracts obtained from the blades were examined using 2D gel electrophoresis; changes in the proteome were finally analyzed using MS/MS. A total of 216 proteins were detected. From these, nine proteins were over‐expressed in the pigment spots in 500GR as compared to WT. These results indicate that the over‐expressed proteins are either antioxidant enzymes or photosynthesis‐related proteins.
The role of services in globalisation
Authors: Bohn Timon , Brakman Steven , Dietzenbacher Erik
Published: March 2018

This paper explores the role of services in international trade and global value chains, and adds to our knowledge on recent trends in globalisation. We employ indicators for trade in value‐added (VA) and for gross exports, and address the following two questions: (i) has trade ofVAin services (i.e., theVAcreated by domestic service industries and embodied in foreign consumption of final products) grown more than trade ofVAin manufacturing; and (ii) does trade ofVAin services travel further than trade ofVAin manufacturing. Based on the World Input‐Output Database (WIOD), we find, in general, that for the period 2000–14, the share of services in exports ofVAgrew over time, whilst the share of manufacturing remained constant (or grew relatively less). Second, throughout the entire period, services had a larger share in interregional exports ofVAthan in intraregional exports ofVA, whilst the opposite was true for manufacturing. Services were thus more global than manufacturing.
Connected and Automated Vehicles
Authors: Peng Huei
Published: March 2018

This article focuses on dynamics and control of connected and automated vehicles. The complexity and difficulty can grow significantly from low automation levels to higher levels. The paper briefly highlights three challenges, i.e., sensing, localization, and perception. The Mobility Transformation Center (MTC) is a public/private research and development partnership led by the University of Michigan. MTC aims to develop the foundations for a viable ecosystem of CAVs. A popular alternative to test high-automation-level AVs is the Naturalistic-Field Operational Test (N-FOT). In an N-FOT, a number of equipped vehicles are tested under naturalistic driving conditions over an extended period. In the near future, connected and automated vehicle technologies are expected to be deployed rapidly. While there has been a lot of research in, and attention to, the field of sensing, localization, and perception, this paper aims to point out a few areas related to the field of dynamics and control that are opportunities for further research.
Evaluating Connected Vehicles and Their Applications
Authors: Mohd Zulkefli Mohd Azrin , Mukherjee Pratik , Shao Yunli , Sun Zongxuan
Published: March 2018

This article presents evaluation results of connected vehicles and their applications. Vehicle-to-vehicle communication (V2V) and vehicle-to-infrastructure communication (V2I) can enable a new paradigm of vehicle applications. The connected vehicle applications could significantly improve vehicle safety, mobility, energy savings, and productivity by utilizing real-time vehicle and traffic information. In the foreseeable future, connected vehicles need to operate alongside unconnected vehicles. This makes the evaluation of connected vehicles and their applications challenging. The hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testbed can be used as a tool to evaluate the connected vehicle applications in a safe, efficient, and economic fashion. The HIL testbed integrates a traffic simulation network with a powertrain research platform in real time. Any target vehicle in the traffic network can be selected so that the powertrain research platform will be operated as if it is propelling the target vehicle. The HIL testbed can also be connected to a living laboratory where actual on-road vehicles can interact with the powertrain research platform.
Reducing Fear of Reinjury and Pain Perception in Athletes With First-Time Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstructions by Implementing Imagery Training
Authors: Rodriguez Rosa M. , Marroquin Ashley , Cosby Nicole
Published: March 2018

Clinical Scenario:The anterior cruciate ligament is one of the major stabilizing ligaments of the knee joint by preventing anterior translation of the femur in the closed kinetic chain. A ruptured anterior cruciate ligament may require reconstructive surgery for patients who wish to return to physical activity. For the most part, surgeries are successful at repairing the ruptured ligament and restoring ligamentous function; the percentage of athletes that return to a competitive level of physical activity is only 44%, and 24% of patients report a main factor of preventing their return is fear of reinjury and pain. Most physiotherapy and rehabilitation research has focused on the physical treatment and is limited on the psychological aspects of recovery. Imagery has been suggested to be effective at reducing anxiety, tension, and pain, while promoting and encouraging healing after an injury. Imagery is defined as a process of performing a skill in one’s mind using the senses (touch, feel, smell, vision, etc) without any overt actions.Clinical Question:In athletes who are first-time anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction patients, does imagery training in combination with standard physical therapy reduce the fear of reinjury and pain perception?Summary of Key Findings:Previous research has primarily looked at the physical treatment aspect, and few studies have focused on the psychological factors affecting recovery. Researchers concluded that fear of reinjury was the unique predictor of return to sport even in a sample of participants that reported very little or almost no pain at all. Imagery as a therapy is an effective intervention in reducing fear of reinjury and confidence building. Furthermore, mental imagery is suggested to assist with a reduction in anxiety, pain, and tension, while promoting healing.Clinical Bottom Line:Based on the strength of recommendation taxonomy, there is a combination of level A and B evidence proposing that imagery, in combination with traditional physical therapy, can be effective at reducing psychological distress such as fear of reinjury and pain perception in first-time anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction patients.
Improvements of Shooting Performance in Adolescent Air Rifle Athletes After 6-Week Balance and Respiration Training Programs
Authors: Park Han-Kyu , Kim Dong-Woo , Kim Tae-Ho
Published: March 2018

Context:Several factors, such as balance and respiration training programs, have been identified as contributing to a shooting performance. However, little is known about the benefits of these programs on the shooting records of adolescent air rifle athletes.Objective:The purpose of this study was to investigate whether balance and respiration training can contribute to the shooting performance required for adolescent air rifle shooting athletes.Design:Case-control study.Setting:Shooting range.Participants:A total of 21 adolescent air rifle athletes were recruited from the local school community and assigned to an experimental (n = 11; EG) or control (n = 10; CG) group.Intervention:The EG performed respiration and balance training for 30 minutes 3 times a week for 6 weeks, and the CG performed balance training only.Main Outcome Measures:Data were collected on the respiratory function, muscle activity, and shooting record before and after the 6-week intervention.Results:The forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expired volume in 1 second (FEV1), FEV1as a percentage of FVC, peak expiratory flow, and maximum voluntary ventilation were significantly increased in the EG, and FEV1as a percentage of FVC was significantly increased in the CG (P < .05). The FVC and peak expiratory flow postintervention were significantly different between the groups (P < .05). The activity of the right internal oblique (IO) and left IO muscles of the FVC were significantly different in the EG (P < .05). Within-group changes in right external oblique, right IO, and left IO of the maximum voluntary ventilation were significantly increased in the EG (P < .05). The right IO and left IO activity improved more significantly in the EG than CG (P < .05). There was no difference between the groups with respect to the shooting records.Conclusions:The clinical significance of this study is the balance and respiration training affected the respiration function capacity and muscle activity, but did not affect the shooting record. Nevertheless, these training are a potential approach method to improve athletes’ shooting record.
Reliability and Validity of Tethered Swimming Lactate Minimum Test and Their Relationship With Performance in Young Swimmers
Authors: Kalva-Filho Carlos Augusto , Toubekis Argyris , Zagatto Alessandro Moura , Silva Adelino Sanchez Ramos da , Loures João Paulo , Campos Eduardo Zapaterra , Papoti Marcelo
Published: March 2018

Purpose: To test the reliability and validity of tethered swimming lactate minimum test in young swimmers. Methods: Lactate minimum test was performed twice to test the reliability (experiment 1; n = 13). In addition, the validity was investigated through lactate minimum test relationships with tethered swimming lactate threshold and peak force obtained during graded exercise test (experiment 2; n = 11). Finally, the correlations with mean speeds observed during 200-m (s200m) and 30-minute continuous efforts (s30min) were also analyzed (experiment 3; n = 15). In all experiments, the lactate minimum test began with 3-minute all-out effort to induce lactatemia, followed by an exhaustive graded exercise test. Results: The lactate minimum intensity and mean force during the entire 3-minute all-out effort (MF) showed high reliability (coefficient of variation < 8.9% and intraclass correlation coefficient > .93). The lactate minimum intensity was not different compared with lactate threshold (P = .22), presenting high correlations (r = .92) and agreement (95% limits of agreement = ±7.9 N). The mean force during the entire 3-minute all-out effort was similar to peak force obtained during graded exercise test (P = .41), presenting significant correlations (r = .88) and high indices of agreement (95% limits of agreement = ±11.3 N). In addition, lactate minimum test parameters correlated both with mean speeds observed during 200-m (r > .74) and 30-minute continuous efforts (r > .70). Conclusion: Thus, tethered swimming lactate minimum test can be used for training recommendations and to monitor aerobic adaptations in young swimmers.
Dextromethorphan Attenuates NADPH Oxidase-Regulated Glycogen Synthase Kinase 3β and NF-κB Activation and Reduces Nitric Oxide Production in Group A Streptococcal Infection
Authors: Chen Chia-Ling , Cheng Miao-Huei , Kuo Chih-Feng , Cheng Yi-Lin , Li Ming-Han , Chang Chih-Peng , Wu Jiunn-Jong , Anderson Robert , Wang Shuying , Tsai Pei-Jane , Liu Ching-Chuan , Lin Yee-Shin
Published: March 2018

Group A
Streptococcus
(GAS) is an important human pathogen that causes a wide spectrum of diseases, including necrotizing fasciitis and streptococcal toxic shock syndrome. Dextromethorphan (DM), an antitussive drug, has been demonstrated to efficiently reduce inflammatory responses, thereby contributing to an increased survival rate of GAS-infected mice. However, the anti-inflammatory mechanisms underlying DM treatment in GAS infection remain unclear. DM is known to exert neuroprotective effects through an NADPH oxidase-dependent regulated process. In the present study, membrane translocation of NADPH oxidase subunit p47
phox
and subsequent reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation induced by GAS infection were significantly inhibited via DM treatment in RAW264.7 murine macrophage cells. Further determination of proinflammatory mediators revealed that DM effectively suppressed inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) expression and NO, tumor necrosis factor alpha, and interleukin-6 generation in GAS-infected RAW264.7 cells as well as in air-pouch-infiltrating cells from GAS/DM-treated mice. GAS infection caused AKT dephosphorylation, glycogen synthase kinase-3β (GSK-3β) activation, and subsequent NF-κB nuclear translocation, which were also markedly inhibited by treatment with DM and an NADPH oxidase inhibitor, diphenylene iodonium. These results suggest that DM attenuates GAS infection-induced overactive inflammation by inhibiting NADPH oxidase-mediated ROS production that leads to downregulation of the GSK-3β/NF-κB/NO signaling pathway.