bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Facilitating affective experiences to stimulate women’s entrepreneurship in rural India
Authors: Katre Aparna
Published: October 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to understand the nature of affective experiences that can help women to overcome perceived socio-cultural constraints and stimulate entrepreneurship. The paper focuses on rural poor women in India as they represent cultural contexts rich with impediments while also presenting an opportunity for socio-economic development.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative study with interpretative phenomenological analysis was conducted with participants from women-owned and -managed crafts-based cooperative entrepreneurial ventures from the state of Bihar in India.

Findings

Cooperative form of entrepreneurship and sisterhood among its members provides an environment for repeated affective experiences that inspire women to change the status quo. Sisterhood facilitates interactions with role models, mentee-driven mentoring and vicarious incentives, each producing positive affect, whereas cooperatives provide a work environment that fosters equality and helps women find their unique voice, generating affect. Together, the affect allows women to overcome fears associated with deviating from age-old traditions while engaging in entrepreneurial behaviors and sustaining them.

Research limitations/implications

The paper advances knowledge on women entrepreneurship for non-Western cultural contexts, particularly the environments and experiences that stimulate entrepreneurship. The values of cooperative form of entrepreneurship and the homophily among sisters creates an environment which is relaxed and comfortable, where affective experiences can be naturally embedded in daily routines in contrast to those created through formal-structured training programmes. The paper findings are limited to cultural contexts of rural women in eastern states of India with high levels of poverty.

Practical implications

Policies for cooperative entrepreneurship and grassroots support to facilitate an environment to foster cooperatives’ values, and sisterhood can lead to affective experiences necessary for change that endures.

Originality/value

Entrepreneurship for pervasive social change, such as alleviating rural women from poverty, needs theory development, particularly a better understanding of the influence of macro socio-cultural contexts on women’s ability to be entrepreneurial. This paper provides an understanding of contextually relevant affective experiences conducive for rural women entrepreneurship.
Climate adaptation planning in the higher education sector
Authors: Kautto Niina , Trundle Alexei , McEvoy Darryn
Published: October 2018

Purpose

There is a growing interest in climate change action in the higher education sector. Higher education institutions (HEIs) play an important role as property owners, employers, education and research hubs as well as leaders of societal transformations. The purpose of this paper was therefore to benchmark how universities globally are addressing climate risks.

Design/methodology/approach

An international survey was conducted to benchmark the sector’s organisational planning for climate change and to better understand how the higher education sector contributes to local-level climate adaptation planning processes. The international survey focused especially on the assessment of climate change impacts and adaptation plans.

Findings

Based on the responses of 45 HEIs located in six different countries on three continents, the study found that there are still very few tertiary institutions that plan for climate-related risks in a systematic way.

Originality/value

The paper sheds light on the barriers HEIs face in engaging in climate adaptation planning and action. Some of the actions to overcome such hindering factors include integrating climate adaptation in existing risk management and sustainability planning processes, using the internal academic expertise and curriculum to assist the mapping of climate change impacts and collaborating with external actors to guarantee the necessary resources. The higher education sector can act as a leader in building institutional resilience at the local scale.
Examining the relationship between hospital ownership and population health efforts
Authors: Gabriel Meghan Hufstader , Atkins Danielle , Liu Xinliang , Tregerman Rebecca
Published: October 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the relationship between ownership type and population health initiatives adopted by hospitals using the 2015 American Hospital Association data.

Design/methodology/approach

Hospitals of various sizes, ownership structures and geographic locations are represented in the survey. The outcome variables of interest include measures of hospital population health activities.

Findings

Findings indicate that nonprofit hospitals are most likely to express commitment to population health and participate in population health activities, with for-profit hospitals being least likely. Implications for policy and practice are discussed.

Research limitations/implications

This study demonstrates that discrepancies in population health approaches exist across ownership status – particularly, nonprofit hospitals appear to be the most likely to be involved in population health efforts.

Practical implications

As we continue to push for population health management in the hospital setting, grappling with the definition and purpose of population health management will be essential.

Social implications

Overall, these results suggest that nonprofit hospitals are more likely to be implementing population health efforts than for-profit or government-owned hospitals.

Originality/value

Although there are several studies on population health in hospitals, this study is the first to investigate the relationship between ownership type and population health initiatives adopted by hospitals.
Study of the influence of temperature on the measurement accuracy of transit-time ultrasonic flowmeters
Authors: Ge Liang , Deng Hongxia , Wang Qing , Hu Ze , Li Junlan
Published: October 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to deal largely with the influence of temperature variation on the measurement accuracy of transit-time ultrasonic flowmeter.

Design/methodology/approach

The causes of measurement error due to temperature are qualitatively and quantitatively analyzed, and a mathematical model is established. The experimental data are processed and analyzed, and the temperature compensation coefficient of flow measurement is obtained.

Findings

The experimental results show that the flow measurement results by temperature compensation are helpful in improving the measurement accuracy of the ultrasonic flowmeter.

Practical implications

This study has certain application value, which can provide theoretical support for the design of high-precision ultrasonic flowmeters and design guidance.

Originality/value

It is worth emphasizing that there are few research studies on the influence factors of temperature. This paper focuses on the influence of the temperature change on the flowmeter that is modeled, and the high precision flow parameter test system is designed based on the established model.
Shear strength and fracture mechanism for full Cu-Sn IMCs solder joints with different Cu3Sn proportion and joints with conventional interfacial structure in electronic packaging
Authors: Yao Peng , Li Xiaoyan , Han Xu , Xu Liufeng
Published: October 2018

Purpose

This study aims to analyze the shear strength and fracture mechanism of full Cu-Sn IMCs joints with different Cu3Sn proportion and joints with the conventional interfacial structure in electronic packaging.

Design/methodology/approach

The Cu-Sn IMCs joints with different Cu3Sn proportion were fabricated through soldering Cu-6 μm Sn-Cu sandwich structure under the extended soldering time and suitable pressure. The joints of conventional interfacial structure were fabricated through soldering Cu-100 μm Sn-Cu sandwich structure. After the shear test was conducted, the fracture mechanism of different joints was studied through observing the cross-sectional fracture morphology and top-view fracture morphology of sheared joints.

Findings

The strength of joints with the conventional interfacial structure was 26.6 MPa, while the strength of full Cu-Sn IMCs joints with 46.7, 60.6, 76.7 and 100 per cent Cu3Sn was, respectively, 33.5, 39.7, 45.7 and 57.9 MPa. The detailed reason for the strength of joints showing such regularity was proposed. For the joint of conventional interfacial structure, the microvoids accumulation fracture happened within the Sn solder. However, for the full Cu-Sn IMCs joint with 46.7 per cent Cu3Sn, the cleavage fracture happened within the Cu6Sn5. As the Cu3Sn proportion increased to 60.6 per cent, the inter-granular fracture, which resulted in the interfacial delamination of Cu3Sn and Cu6Sn5, occurred along the Cu3Sn/Cu6Sn5 interface, while the cleavage fracture happened within the Cu6Sn5. Then, with the Cu3Sn proportion increasing to 76.7 per cent, the cleavage fracture happened within the Cu6Sn5, while the transgranular fracture happened within the Cu3Sn. The inter-granular fracture, which led to the interfacial delamination of Cu3Sn and Cu, happened along the Cu/Cu3Sn interface. For the full Cu3Sn joint, the cleavage fracture happened within the Cu3Sn.

Originality/value

The shear strength and fracture mechanism of full Cu-Sn IMCs joints was systematically studied. A direct comparison regarding the shear strength and fracture mechanism between the full Cu-Sn IMCs joints and joints with the conventional interfacial structure was conducted.
Physician characteristics, industry transfers, and pharmaceutical prescribing: Empirical evidence from medicare and the physician payment sunshine act
Authors: Brunt Christopher Scott
Published: October 2018

Objective

To evaluate physician characteristics associated with pharmaceutical industry transfers and prescribing behavior after public reporting under the Sunshine Act.

Data Sources

2014‐2016 secondary data on industry transfers to physicians from the Open Payments Dataset supplemented with Medicare Part D prescription data, Medicare service data, and practice attributes from the Physician Compare Database.

Study Design

Using regression analysis with county/physician fixed effects, this study examines characteristics associated with the probability/magnitude of transfers and the association between transfers and prescriptions.

Data Collection

Using an iterative matching approach, this study identifies physicians who delivered outpatient Medicare services in 2014 (n = 409 041) and tracks their annual transfers between 2014 and 2016 (N = 1 227 123) across six transfer categories. In addition, it examines their Medicare Part D prescription behavior between 2014 and 2015 (N = 741 659).

Principal Findings

Industry transfers dramatically declined in 2015 and 2016. Transfers are significantly associated with increased prescription costs, branded prescribing, and prescribing for High‐Risk Medications (HRMs).

Conclusions

Industry transfers have declined after public reporting. Transfers are associated with higher prescription costs and incidence of HRMs. Future research is needed to determine the causal impact on quality and cost‐effectiveness of prescribed medications.
Is Development “The New Peace”? Global Citizenship as National Obligation in Postwar Guatemala
Authors: Bellino Michelle J.
Published: October 2018

Amid growing policy interest in global citizenship education, this ethnographic study examines one school’s mission to foster global citizens among elite youth in Guatemala. Despite educators’ efforts to raise awareness about local inequities and instill national identity and attachment to Guatemala, students constructed a neoliberal vision of citizenship that allowed them to disregard national politics of diversity. Instead, they focused their efforts on becoming globally competitive, often at the expense of reproducing inequality and division.
Using a semi‐mechanistic model to identify the main sources of variability of metformin pharmacokinetics
Authors: Stage Tore Bjerregaard , Wellhagen Gustaf , Christensen Mette Marie Hougaard , Guiastrennec Benjamin , Brøsen Kim , Kjellsson Maria C.
Published: September 2018

Metformin pharmacokinetics (PK) is highly variable, and researchers have for years tried to shed light on determinants of inter‐individual (IIV) and inter‐occasion variability (IOV) of metformin PK. We set out to identify the main sources of PK variability using a semi‐mechanistic model. We assessed the influence of subject characteristics, including seven genetic variants. Data from three studies of healthy individuals with PK measurements of plasma and urine after single dose or at steady‐state were used in this study. In total, 87 subjects were included (16 crossover subjects). Single nucleotide polymorphisms in ATM, OCT1, OCT2, MATE1 and MATE2‐K were investigated as dominant, recessive or additive. A three‐compartment model with transit absorption and renal elimination with a proportional error was fitted to the data using NONMEM 7.3. Oral parameters were separated from disposition parameters as dose‐dependent absolute bioavailability was determined with support from urine data. Clearance was expressed as net renal secretion and filtration, assuming full fraction unbound and fraction excreted. Mean transit time and peripheral volume of distribution were identified as the main sources of variability according to estimates, with 94% IOV and 95% IIV, respectively. Clearance contributed only with 16% IIV. Glomerular filtration rate and body‐weight were the only covariates found to affect metformin net secretion, reducing IIV to 14%. None of the genetic variants were found to affect metformin PK. Based on our analysis, finding covariates explaining absorption of metformin is much more valuable in understanding variability and avoiding toxicity than elimination.
Intratunical injection of stromal vascular fraction prevents fibrosis in a rat model of Peyronie's disease
Authors: Castiglione Fabio , Hedlund Petter , Weyne Emmanuel , Hakim Lukman , Montorsi Francesco , Salonia Andrea , Bivalacqua Trinity J. , De Ridder Dirk , Milenkovic Uros , Ralph David , Garaffa Giulio , Muneer Asif , Joniau Steven , Albersen Maarten ,   the Trauma and Reconstructive Urology Working Party of the European Association of Urology (EAU) Young Academic Urologists (YAU)
Published: September 2018

Objective

To investigate whether local injection of autologous adipose stromal vascular fraction (SVF) can prevent the development of fibrosis and elastosis in the tunica albuginea (TA) using a rat model of the acute phase of Peyronie's disease (PD).

Methods

A total of 24 male 12‐week‐old Sprague–Dawley rats were divided into three equal groups: sham; PD without treatment (transforming growth factor‐β [TGF ‐β]); and PD treated with SVF 1 day after disease induction. Sham rats received two injections of vehicle into the TA 1 day apart. TGF ‐β rats received TGF‐ β1 injection and injection of vehicle 1 day later. SVF rats received TGF‐β1 injection, followed by SVF 1 day later. One month after treatment, all rats underwent measurement of intracavernosal pressure and mean arterial pressure during electrostimulation of the cavernous nerve. The rats were then killed and penises were harvested for histology and Western blot analysis.

Results

Erectile function was moderately reduced in the TGF‐β group and was significantly improved after SVF treatment (P < 0.05). PD rats developed areas of fibrosis with a significant upregulation of collagen III, collagen I and elastin protein expression. These fibrotic changes were prevented when treated with SVF.

Conclusions

Local injection of SVF may represent treatment for the acute phase of PD.
What Quantile Regression Does and Doesn't Do: A Commentary on Petscher and Logan (2014)
Authors: Wenz Sebastian E.
Published: September 2018

Petscher and Logan's (2014) description of quantile regression (QR) might mislead readers to believe it would estimate the relation between an outcome, y, and one or more predictors, x, at different quantiles of the unconditional distribution of y. However, QR models the conditional quantile function of y given x just as linear regression models the conditional mean function. This article's contribution is twofold: First, it discusses potential consequences of methodological misconceptions and formulations of Petscher and Logan's (2014) presentation by contrasting features of QR and linear regression. Second, it reinforces the importance of correct understanding of QR in empirical research by illustrating similarities and differences in various QR estimators and linear regression using simulated data.
Associations Between Perceived Material Deprivation, Parents’ Discipline Practices, and Children's Behavior Problems: An International Perspective
Authors: Schenck‐Fontaine Anika , Lansford Jennifer E. , Skinner Ann T. , Deater‐Deckard Kirby , Di Giunta Laura , Dodge Kenneth A. , Oburu Paul , Pastorelli Concetta , Sorbring Emma , Steinberg Laurence , Malone Patrick S. , Tapanya Sombat , Uribe Tirado Liliana M. , Alampay Liane P. , Al‐Hassan Suha M. , Bacchini Dario , Bornstein Marc H. , Chang Lei
Published: October 2018

This study investigated the association between perceived material deprivation, children's behavior problems, and parents’ disciplinary practices. The sample included 1,418 8‐ to 12‐year‐old children and their parents in China, Colombia, Italy, Jordan, Kenya, the Philippines, Sweden, Thailand, and the United States. Multilevel mixed‐ and fixed‐effects regression models found that, even when income remained stable, perceived material deprivation was associated with children's externalizing behavior problems and parents’ psychological aggression. Parents’ disciplinary practices mediated a small share of the association between perceived material deprivation and children's behavior problems. There were no differences in these associations between mothers and fathers or between high‐ and low‐ and middle‐income countries. These results suggest that material deprivation likely influences children's outcomes at any income level.
Diagnostic accuracy of the implant stability quotient in monitoring progressive peri‐implant bone loss: An experimental study in dogs
Authors: Monje Alberto , Insua Angel , Monje Florencio , Muñoz Fernando , Salvi Giovanni E. , Buser Daniel , Chappuis Vivianne
Published: September 2018

Objectives

To investigate the impact of progressive bone loss in an experimental peri‐implantitis model in the dog upon the implant stability quotient (ISQ) measured in the course of induced and spontaneous conditions of disease, and to evaluate the association between the clinical parameters and ISQ.

Materials and Methods

Seventy‐two implants were placed in 12 Beagle dogs. Of these, 36 implants in six dogs were assessed during ligature‐induced peri‐implantitis (three timepoints) and at one timepoint following a period of spontaneous progression. The ISQ was recorded using resonance frequency analysis (RFA). Furthermore, the clinical peri‐implant parameters were registered at four sites per implant at each timepoint. Marginal bone loss (MBL) was determined using computed tomography at four sites per implant and bone‐to‐implant contact (BIC) was assessed from histological samples. A linear regression model was estimated by generalized estimation equations (GEEs) in order to study the MBL‐ISQ values at each measurement timepoint. Pearson's correlation test was applied.

Results

None of the implants failed during the study period. At implant level, a strong negative correlation was found for all timepoints between ISQ and MBL (r = −0.58; p < 0.001). Accordingly, as follow‐up progressed, lower ISQ and higher MBL values were observed. A prediction of MBL depending on the ISQ values and timepoints showed a decrease in one ISQ unit to be related to ~1 mm of MBL. Likewise, a statistically significant correlation was found between BIC and ISQ evaluated after spontaneous chronification of peri‐implantitis (r = 0.34; p = 0.04). Nevertheless, the ISQ values failed to correlate to any of the clinical parameters recorded.

Conclusion

Resonance frequency analysis seems accurate in diagnosing progressive bone loss, as a statistically significant decrease in ISQ was recorded in the course of peri‐implant disease. Nevertheless, the clinical relevance of this observation as a diagnostic tool is debatable, since implant stability remains high.
Venous thrombosis in unusual sites: A practical review for the hematologist
Authors: Shatzel Joseph J. , O'Donnell Matthew , Olson Sven R. , Kearney Matthew R. , Daughety Molly M. , Hum Justine , Nguyen Khanh P. , DeLoughery Thomas G.
Published: September 2018

Thrombosis of unusual venous sites encompasses a large part of consultative hematology and is encountered routinely by practicing hematologists. Contrary to the more commonly encountered lower extremity venous thrombosis and common cardiovascular disorders, the various thromboses outlined in this review have unique presentations, pathophysiology, workup, and treatments that all hematologists should be aware of. This review attempts to outline the most up to date literature on cerebral, retinal, upper extremity, hepatic, portal, splenic, mesenteric, and renal vein thrombosis, focusing on the incidence, pathophysiology, provoking factors, and current recommended treatments for each type of unusual thrombosis to provide a useful and practical review for the hematologist.
Failure loads of all‐ceramic cantilever fixed dental prostheses on post‐restored abutment teeth: influence of the post presence and post position
Authors: Sterzenbach Guido , Rosentritt Martin , Meyer‐Lueckel Hendrik , Bitter Kerstin , Naumann Michael
Published: October 2018

The influence of a fiber post‐restored abutment tooth on the load capability of a three‐unit zirconia framework cantilever fixed dental prosthesis (cFDP) was evaluated after simulated clinical function. Human lower sound premolars (n = 64) were distributed, in equal numbers, to four experimental groups: two vital abutment teeth (group I; control); mesial abutment tooth post‐restored (group II); distal abutment tooth post‐restored (group III); and mesial and distal abutment teeth post‐restored (group IV). All specimens received an adhesively luted three‐unit cFDP of veneered zirconia. Simulated clinical function was performed by two subsequent sequences of thermal‐cycling (2 × 3,000 cycles) and mechanical loading (1.2 × 106 load cycles from 0 to 50 N) (TCML). Four specimens failed during TCML (one in each of groups I and IV and two in group II). The maximum load capability ranged from 365 to 538 N and was not significantly different between groups. Specimens with post‐restored abutments failed mainly because of abutment tooth fracture of the distal abutment. The presence or position of post‐restored abutment teeth has no significant impact on load capability of all‐ceramic three‐unit cFDPs. The risk of tooth fracture of the distal abutment teeth of a cFDP was significantly increased when one abutment tooth, irrespective of its position, was post‐and‐core restored.
Global projections of future cropland expansion to 2050 and direct impacts on biodiversity and carbon storage
Authors: Molotoks Amy , Stehfest Elke , Doelman Jonathan , Albanito Fabrizio , Fitton Nuala , Dawson Terence P. , Smith Pete
Published: September 2018

Cropland expansion threatens biodiversity by driving habitat loss and impacts carbon storage through loss of biomass and soil carbon (C). There is a growing concern land‐use change (LUC) to cropland will result in a loss of ecosystem function and various ecosystem services essential for human health and well‐being. This paper examines projections of future cropland expansion from an integrated assessment model IMAGE 3.0 under a “business as usual” scenario and the direct impact on both biodiversity and C storage. By focusing on biodiversity hotspots and Alliance for Zero Extinction (AZE) sites, loss of habitat as well as potential impacts on endangered and critically endangered species are explored. With regards to C storage, the impact on both soil and vegetation standing C stocks are examined. We show that if projected trends are realized, there are likely to be severe consequences for these resources. Substantial loss of habitat in biodiversity hotspots such as Indo‐Burma, and the Philippians is expected as well as 50% of species in AZE sites losing part of their last remaining habitat. An estimated 13.7% of vegetation standing C stocks and 4.6% of soil C stocks are also projected to be lost in areas affected with Brazil and Mexico being identified as priorities in terms of both biodiversity and C losses from cropland expansion. Changes in policy to regulate projected cropland expansion, and increased measures to protect natural resources, are highly likely to be required to prevent these biodiversity and C losses in the future.
Innovation strategies for smart specialisation (RIS3): Past, present and future research
Authors: Lopes João , Ferreira João J. , Farinha Luís
Published: October 2018

The recent change in the regional development strategy of the European Union (EU) results in an important need to study the terms of change and their respective implications. This study seeks, through a bibliometric analysis, to ascertain the developments taking place in studies on research and innovation strategies for smart specialisation (RIS3) to identify shortcomings and opportunities for future research. This bibliometric review drew upon the Scopus database with the sample selected containing all the articles containing the keywords “Research and Innovation Strategies for Smart Specialisation” or “RIS3.” This correspondingly reports how some authors maintain that the path the EU should take involves imitative innovation. Meanwhile, others propose that each region should specialise in those industries that are already established there and thus avoid targeting any areas they do not already know/specialise in. Our findings detail six clusters in RIS3 research, which help in contextualising the literature review: (a) business discovery; (b) smart specialisation; (c) innovation; (d) specialisation; (e) regional policies; and (f) regional development. This study furthermore sets out perspectives for future lines of research and correspondingly seeks to convey a vast theoretical basis that may serve as the point of departure for future studies.
Diagnostic accuracy of cone beam computed tomography used for assessment of apical periodontitis: an ex vivo histopathological study on human cadavers
Authors: Kruse C. , Spin‐Neto R. , Evar Kraft D. C. , Væth M. , Kirkevang L.‐L.
Published: September 2018

Aim

To assess the diagnostic accuracy of Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) to diagnose apical periodontitis (AP) using histopathology of ex vivo human jaws as the reference standard.

Methodology

Based on periapical radiographs of jaw specimens from human bodies donated for science, a sample of 223 teeth with 340 roots including all tooth groups, and different disease and treatment statuses was selected. Cone Beam Computed Tomography was performed using Cranex® 3Dx (Soredex Oy, Tuusula, Finland), small field‐of‐view (5 × 5 cm), and isotropic resolution 0.085 mm. Three observers assessed the presence of AP using a probability index. Histopathological examination of the periapical area was used as a reference standard to calculate estimates of diagnostic accuracy.

Results

For non‐root filled teeth all estimates of diagnostic accuracy; sensitivity (SENS), specificity (SPEC), positive predictive value (PPV) and negative predictive value (NPV) were high. All estimates were lower for root filled teeth. When mild AP was classified as ‘AP’, SENS, SPEC and NPV were significantly lower in root filled roots (P < 0.001 in all cases). The same tendency was seen when mild AP was classified as ‘No AP’ but here only the difference in SPEC was significant (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

The diagnostic accuracy of CBCT used for diagnosis of AP is dependent on the treatment status of the tooth. For non‐root filled teeth the diagnostic accuracy of CBCT is high and almost all cases of AP can be diagnosed correctly with only a very small risk of over‐diagnosis. All diagnostic accuracy parameters were lower for root filled roots, hence the diagnosis of AP on root filled roots using CBCT was less accurate.
Quality assessment of packaged fried foods during storage based on oven storage test
Authors: Li Chunhua , Zhang Jianxin , Li Zhonghong , Yu Xiuzhu
Published: October 2018

Packaged fried foods have been appreciated worldwide, so monitoring quality deterioration during storage is very crucial. Twelve types of commercial packaged fried foods were selected to determine quality parameters such as moisture content (MC), hardness (HN), acid value (AV), peroxide value (PV), carbonyl value (CV), dielectric constant (DC), fatty acid compositions (FAC) and acrylamide (AA) every 3 days by Schaal oven tests. MC and HN showed a linear relationship with high correlation coefficient (R ≥ 0.821). PV increased from 2.65–8.51 meq/kg to 5.97–59.90 meq/kg. DC was highly correlated with MC, HN, PV, CV and AV (p ≤ 0.05). The content of unsaturated fatty acids slightly decreased, whereas that of saturated fatty acids marginally increased. AA content increased slightly during storage and varied from 43.07 to 226.82 μg/kg. These results revealed that DC can be used as an evaluation index of the quality deterioration of packaged fried foods during storage.
State‐mediated Brokerage System in China's Self‐funded Study Abroad Market
Authors: Lan Shanshan
Published: October 2018

The thriving of China's self‐funded study abroad market is marked by the tremendous increase of students who use the services of educational intermediaries to facilitate their transnational journeys. This is largely due to the marketization of China's higher educational system and the liberalization of state policy towards commercialized brokerage services. Based on multi‐sited fieldwork in China and Italy, this paper examines the intersections between the regulatory, the commercial, and the social dimensions of the educational migration infrastructure in China. It identifies a tension between the neoliberal ideas of individual autonomy and freedom, which are promoted by the state and private intermediaries, and the self‐perpetuating nature of the educational migration infrastructure, which facilitates and constrains different groups of parents' and students' desire for international education.
Mothers’ Work Status and 17‐Month‐Olds’ Productive Vocabulary
Authors: Laing Catherine , Bergelson Elika
Published: September 2018

Literature examining the effects of mothers’ work status on infant language development is mixed, with little focus on varying work schedules and early vocabulary. We use naturalistic data to analyze the productive vocabulary of 44 17‐month‐olds in relation to mothers’ work status (full time, part time, stay at home) at 6 and 18 months. Infants who experienced a combination of care from mothers and other caretakers had larger productive vocabularies than infants in solely full‐time maternal or solely other‐caretaker care. Our results draw from naturalistic data to suggest that this care combination may be particularly beneficial for early lexical development.
The Co‐Movement of Credit Default Swap Spreads, Equity Returns and Volatility: Evidence from Asia‐Pacific Markets
Authors: Da Fonseca José , Gottschalk Katrin
Published: October 2018

We provide a comprehensive analysis of the co‐movement of credit default swap (CDS), equity, and volatility markets in four Asia‐Pacific countries at firm and index level during the period 2007–2010. First, we examine lead–lag relationships between CDS spread changes, equity returns, and changes in volatility using a vector autoregressive model. At the firm level equity returns lead changes in CDS spreads and realized volatility. However, at the index level the intertemporal linkages between the three markets are less clear‐cut. Second, we apply the measures proposed by Diebold and Yilmaz (2014) to an analysis of volatility spillovers among the CDS, equities, and volatility asset classes. The results suggest that realized volatility (at firm level) and implied volatility (at index level) are the main transmitters of cross‐market volatility spillovers. Third, we analyze the impact of various structural factors and confirm the importance of realized volatility of equity returns as a determinant of CDS spreads.
Alendronate improves fasting plasma glucose and insulin sensitivity, and decreases insulin resistance in prediabetic osteopenic postmenopausal women: A randomized triple‐blind clinical trial
Authors: Karimi Fard Maryam , Aminorroaya Ashraf , Kachuei Ali , Salamat Mohammad Reza , Hadi Alijanvand Moluk , Aminorroaya Yamini Sima , Karimifar Mansoor , Feizi Awat , Amini Massoud
Published: September 2018

Aims/Introduction

Postmenopausal women receive bisphosphonates for osteoporosis treatment. The effect of these medications on developing diabetes mellitus in prediabetic patients is yet to be investigated. We aimed to determine the effect of alendronate on plasma glucose, insulin indices of postmenopausal women with prediabetes and osteopenia.

Materials and Methods

The present triple‐blind randomized controlled clinical trial included 60 postmenopausal women, aged 45–60 years. All patients were vitamin D sufficient. They were randomly enrolled in intervention (70 mg/week alendronate for 12 weeks) and control (placebo tablet per week for 12 weeks) groups. The morning 8‐h fasting blood samples were collected at the baseline and follow‐up visits to measure the fasting plasma glucose (mg/dL), insulin and hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c). Plasma glucose and insulin concentration were measured 30, 60 and 120 min after the glucose tolerance test. The Matsuda Index, homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance, homeostasis model assessment of β‐cell function and the area under the curves of glucose and insulin were calculated.

Results

The mean (standard deviation) fasting plasma glucose (102.43 [1.46] mg/dL vs 94.23 [1.17] mg/dL, P = 0.001), 120‐min insulin concentration (101.86 [15.70] mU/L vs 72.60 [11.36] mU/L, P = 0.026), HbA1c (5.60 [0.06]% vs 5.40 [0.05]%, P = 0.001), homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (3.57 [0.45] vs 2.62 [0.24], P = 0.021) and Matsuda Index (7.7 [0.41] vs 9.2 [0.4], P = 0.001) significantly improved in the alendronate‐treated group. There were more statistically significant reductions in fasting plasma glucose (−8.2 [8.63] mg/dL vs −2.5 [14.26] mg/dL, P = 0.002) and HbA1c (−0.2 [0.23]% vs −0.09 [0.26]%, P = 0.015) observed in the alendronate‐treated group than the placebo group during the study course, respectively.

Conclusions

Administration of 70 mg/week alendronate improves fasting plasma glucose, HbA1c and insulin indices in postmenopausal women.
Sequence, structure and evolutionary analysis of cold shock domain proteins, a member of OB fold family
Authors: Amir Mohd. , Kumar Vijay , Dohare Ravins , Islam Asimul , Ahmad Faizan , Hassan Md. Imtaiyaz
Published: September 2018

The cold shock domain (CSD) belongs to the oligosaccharide/oligonucleotide‐binding fold superfamily which is highly conserved from prokaryotes to higher eukaryotes, and appears to function as RNA chaperones. CSD is involved in diverse cellular processes, including adaptation to low temperatures, nutrient stress, cellular growth and developmental processes. Structural Classification of Proteins (SCOP) database broadly classifies OB fold proteins into 18 different superfamilies, including nucleic acid‐binding superfamily (NAB). The NAB is further divided into 17 families together with cold shock DNA‐binding protein family (CSDB). The CSDB have more than 240 000 sequences in UniProt database consisting of 32 domains including CSD. Among these domains, CSD is the second largest sequence contributor (> 40 398 sequences). Herein, we have systematically analysed the relative abundance and distribution of CSD proteins based on sequences, structures, repeats and gene ontology (GO) molecular functions in all domains of life. Analysis of sequence distribution suggesting that CSDs are largely found in bacteria (83–94%) with single CSD repeat. However, repeat distribution in eukaryota varies from 1 to 5 in combination with other auxiliary domain that makes CSD proteins functionally more diverse compared to the bacterial counterparts. Further, analysis of repeats distributions on evolutionary scale suggest that existence of CSD in multiple repeats is mainly driven through speciation, gene shuffling and gene duplication events.
Size, age, growth and site fidelity of anadromous cutthroat trout Oncorhynchus clarkii clarkii in the Salish Sea
Authors: Losee James P. , Claiborne Andrew M. , Dionne Phillip E. , Faulkner Hannah S. , Seamons Todd R.
Published: October 2018

Pacific salmon Oncorhynchus spp. have been the focus of scientific research for over a century, but anadromous trout in this genus, in particular anadromous coastal cutthroat trout Oncorhynchus clarkii clarkii, have been neglected. Oncorhynchus clarkii clarkii occupy a diverse range of habitats including fresh water, brackish estuaries and marine water, but have a relatively small home range making them ideal for studies of behaviour and movements during ocean residency. In 2015, we sampled O. c. clarkii monthly along a small stretch of beach (47.08° N, 122.98° W) in Eld Inlet, south Puget Sound, Washington using a beach seine. We collected tissue for genetic tagging and stock identification and scales for aging from 427 O. c. clarkii, ranging in size from 118 to 478 mm fork length. Additionally, we enumerated redds in natal streams of those fish tagged to describe inter‐habitat movement patterns and investigate site fidelity of juvenile and adult O. c. clarkii in the marine environment. Consistent with other anadromous salmonids, O. c. clarkii captured at our study beach exhibited rapid growth rates, particularly in spring following dispersal into the marine environment (mean ± SD = 0.61 ± 0.29 mm–d). Genetic tag data revealed that while O. c. clarkii undergo inter‐estuarine migrations, O. c. clarkii of all life stages exhibited site fidelity in the marine environment. Twenty‐one percent (64/305) of sampled O. c. clarkii were recaptured at least once during the course of the study while multiple fish (n = 3) were recaptured up to five times. These results suggest that O. c. clarkii occupying south Puget Sound reside in or regularly return to a small geographic area in the nearshore environment for much of their life and therefore may be particularly vulnerable to anthropogenic disturbance (development, angling, etc.).
Phenotypic and molecular consequences of stepwise temperature increase across generations in a coral reef fish
Authors: Bernal Moisés A. , Donelson Jennifer M. , Veilleux Heather D. , Ryu Taewoo , Munday Philip L. , Ravasi Timothy
Published: September 2018

Global warming will have far‐reaching consequences for marine species over coming decades, yet the magnitude of these effects may depend on the rate of warming across generations. Recent experiments show coral reef fishes can compensate the metabolic challenges of elevated temperature when warm conditions are maintained across generations. However, the effects of a gradual temperature increase across generations remain unknown. In the present study, we analysed metabolic and molecular traits in the damselfish Acanthochromis polyacanthus that were exposed to +1.5°C in the first generation and +3.0°C in the second (Step +3.0°C). This treatment of stepwise warming was compared to fish reared at current‐day temperatures (Control), second‐generation fish of control parents reared at +3.0°C (Developmental +3.0°C) and fish exposed to elevated temperatures for two generations (Transgenerational +1.5°C and Transgenerational +3.0°C). Hepatosomatic index, oxygen consumption and liver gene expression were compared in second‐generation fish of the multiple treatments. Hepatosomatic index increased in fish that developed at +3.0°C, regardless of the parental temperature. Routine oxygen consumption of Step +3.0°C fish was significantly higher than Control; however, their aerobic scope recovered to the same level as Control fish. Step +3.0°C fish exhibited significant upregulation of genes related to mitochondrial activity and energy production, which could be associated with their increased metabolic rates. These results indicate that restoration of aerobic scope is possible when fish experience gradual thermal increase across multiple generations, but the metabolic and molecular responses are different from fish reared at the same elevated thermal conditions in successive generations.
Micafungin may be safely administered as outpatient parenteral antimicrobial therapy for chronic pulmonary aspergillosis
Authors: Otu Akaninyene A. , Bongomin Felix , Bazaz Rohit , Harris Chris , Denning David W. , Kosmidis Chris
Published: September 2018

Background

Intravenous micafungin has been reported as a treatment alternative in patients with chronic pulmonary aspergillosis (CPA) where long‐term oral triazole therapy is unfeasible.

Objectives

We evaluated the safety and efficacy of micafungin administered via the outpatient parenteral antimicrobial therapy (OPAT) service for the treatment of CPA.

Methods

We included all CPA patients who received micafungin via OPAT between April 2016 and March 2018. Data on adverse events and line‐related complications, and Quality of Life (QoL) scores at the start of micafungin course and 3 months later were extracted. Improvements in QoL were defined as an improvement of ≥4 points in at least one modality (symptom, impact, activity, total) in the St George's QoL score. A stable QoL score was defined as a change in score of <4 points in either direction whilst deterioration was defined as an increase of ≥4 points.

Results

There were 20 OPAT episodes involving 18 patients with a median duration of micafungin therapy of 21 (range: 4‐248) days. Improvement or stability in the symptoms, activity, impact and total score was seen in 14 (78%), 12 (67%), 9 (50%) and 9 (50%) of the patients, respectively. However, half of the patients reported deterioration in the impact domain and total scores. By self‐assessment, patients who categorised themselves as “poor” were comparable at the start of OPAT and at 3 months (43% vs 50%, McNemar's P = 0.7). Adverse events attributable to micafungin were recorded in 3 (14.3%) episodes.

Conclusions

Micafungin may be safely administered via an OPAT service. Micafungin therapy was associated with an improvement or stability in QoL scores in at least 50% of the patients across the four domains.
Multiple mechanisms explain how reduced KRP expression increases leaf size of Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Sizani Bulelani L. , Kalve Shweta , Markakis Marios N. , Domagalska Malgorzata A. , Stelmaszewska Joanna , AbdElgawad Hamada , Zhao Xin'ai , De Veylder Lieven , De Vos Dirk , Broeckhove Jan , Schnittger Arp , Beemster Gerrit T. S.
Published: September 2018

Although cell number generally correlates with organ size, the role of cell cycle control in growth regulation is still largely unsolved. We studied kip related protein (krp) 4, 6 and 7 single, double and triple mutants of Arabidopsis thaliana to understand the role of cell cycle inhibitory proteins in leaf development.

We performed leaf growth and seed size analysis, kinematic analysis, flow cytometery, transcriptome analysis and mathematical modeling of G1/S and G2/M checkpoint progression of the mitotic and endoreplication cycle.

Double and triple mutants progressively increased mature leaf size, because of elevated expression of cell cycle and DNA replication genes stimulating progression through the division and endoreplication cycle. However, cell number was also already increased before leaf emergence, as a result of an increased cell number in the embryo. We show that increased embryo and seed size in krp4/6/7 results from seed abortion, presumably reducing resource competition, and that seed size differences contribute to the phenotype of several large‐leaf mutants.

Our results provide a new mechanistic understanding of the role of cell cycle regulation in leaf development and highlight the contribution of the embryo to the development of leaves after germination in general.
Leading knowledge mobilization for public value: The case of the congestion charge zone (Area C) in Milan
Authors: Trivellato Benedetta , Mariani Laura , Martini Mattia , Cavenago Dario
Published: October 2018

The literature on public value creation has grown significantly in recent years. However, how such generation of public value is linked to the interaction between individual and organizational capabilities, and the role played by leadership in such interaction, is still underexplored. This analysis of the congestion charge zone (Area C) implemented by the Municipality of Milan in Italy explores this issue and highlights the role played by the knowledge orchestrator who, by assuming different leadership roles at different times, strives to create value through knowledge mobilization. Leveraging from existing resources, the knowledge orchestrator captures knowledge from the external environment and promotes collaboration among individuals and institutions, so as to generate a new reconfigured stock of knowledge. These activities nurture the capacity of public organizations to collaborate, produce innovations, and more broadly contribute to public value creation.
Opioid Induced Hyperalgesia with Intrathecal Infusion of High‐Dose Fentanyl
Authors: Kalaydjian Antranig , Farah Fadi , Cheng Yuen , Acquadro Martin A. , Gerges Frederic J.
Published: September 2018

Introduction

Despite being reported since 1943 as well as being the subject of a large body of literature since that time, no consensus has been reached regarding the etiology of opioid induced hyperalgesia (OIH). It is often described as a paradoxical increased pain response to noxious stimuli due to increased sensitization or an acute tolerance to opioids.

Case

We report the case of a 60 year old patient on chronic Intrathecal combined fentanyl and Bupivacaine who had worsening pain with increasing doses and improved after weaning off intrathecal opioids.

Conclusion

OIH has been described in various settings including patients on methadone maintenance therapy, perioperative opioid administration, cancer patients on opioids, and healthy volunteers who are acutely exposed to opioids, including high dose intrathecal opioids such as Morphine and Sufentanil. To our knowledge, no cases of opioid induced hyperalgesia was previously reported in the case of intrathecal Fentanyl.