bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Respiration competes with theta for modulating parietal cortex neurons
Authors: Jung Felix , Yanovsky Yevgenij , Brankačk Jurij , Tort Adriano BL , Draguhn Andreas
Published: July 2019

Recent work has shown that nasal respiration entrains local field potential (LFP) and neuronal activity in widespread regions of the brain. This includes non-olfactory regions where respiration-coupled oscillations have been described in different mammals, such as rodents, cats and humans. They may, thus, constitute a global signal aiding interregional communication. Nevertheless, the brain produces other widespread slow rhythms, such as theta oscillations, which also mediate long-range synchronization of neuronal activity. It is completely unknown how these different signals interact to control neuronal network activity. In this work, we characterized respiration- and theta-coupled activity in the posterior parietal cortex of mice. Our results show that respiration-coupled and theta oscillations have different laminar profiles, in which respiration preferentially entrains LFPs and units in more superficial layers, whereas theta modulation does not differ across the parietal cortex. Interestingly, we find that the percentage of theta-modulated units increases in the absence of respiration-coupled oscillations, suggesting that both rhythms compete for modulating parietal cortex neurons. We further show through intracellular recordings that synaptic inhibition is likely to play a role in generating respiration-coupled oscillations at the membrane potential level. Finally, we provide anatomical and electrophysiological evidence of reciprocal monosynaptic connections between the anterior cingulate and posterior parietal cortices, suggesting a possible source of respiration-coupled activity in the parietal cortex.
Feeding intensity and molecular prey identification of the common long-armed octopus, Octopus minor (Mollusca: Octopodidae) in the wild
Authors: Bo Qi-Kang , Zheng Xiao-Dong , Chen Zhi-Wei
Published: July 2019

The common long-armed octopus, Octopus minor, is an important component of systems and supports the local fisheries in the coastal areas of northern China. And because of the overfishing, the national germplasm reserve was established as conservation area at the Moon Lake for the genetic resource of O.minor in 2012. For the fishery management and artificial breeding, especially for the management of exclusive conservation reserves, its role in the ecosystem requires assessment. Therefore, the feeding intensity of O. minor was studied from April to July 2014 when females reaching maturation, and prey composition was identified from stomach contents using a DNA barcoding method. Of the 172 sampled octopuses, 66 had stomach contents that were nearly digested into pulp. Maximum feeding intensity occurred during the month of April and the feeding intensity of the females was greater than that of the males in April and May. A considerable overall reduction of feeding intensity in both sexes occurred from April to July. A total of 8 species were identified as the prey of O. minor. Based on homology searches and phylogenetic analysis, of 60 sequences, 30 matched with fish (50.00%, by number), 13 with crustaceans (21.66%), one with annelid (1.66%), one with nematode (1.66%) and 15 with itself (25.00%). These results confirm that O. minor has habitual nature of strong dietary preference, with Gobiidae families (62.79%, by number) being an important prey during the time when females reach sexual maturation. From April to July, the observed cannibalism showed an increasing trend.
Uncoupling the roles of firing rates and spike bursts in shaping the STN-GPe beta band oscillations
Authors: Bahuguna Jyotika , Sahasranamam Ajith , Kumar Arvind
Published: July 2019

The excess of 15-30 Hz (β-band) oscillations in the basal ganglia is one of the key signatures of Parkinson’s disease (PD). The STN-GPe network is integral to generation and modulation of β band oscillations in basal ganglia. However, the role of changes in the firing rates and spike bursting of STN and GPe neurons in shaping these oscillations has remained unclear. In order to uncouple their effects, we studied the dynamics of STN-GPe network using numerical simulations. In particular, we used a neuron model, in which firing rates and spike bursting can be independently controlled. Using this model, we found that while STN firing rate is predictive of oscillations but GPe firing rate is not. The effect of spike bursting in STN and GPe neurons was state-dependent. That is, only when the network was operating in a state close to the border of oscillatory and non-oscillatory regimes, spike bursting had a qualitative effect on the β band oscillations. In these network states, an increase in GPe bursting enhanced the oscillations whereas an equivalent proportion of spike bursting in STN suppressed the oscillations. These results provide new insights into the mechanisms underlying the transient β bursts and how duration and power of β band oscillations may be controlled by an interplay of GPe and STN firing rates and spike bursts.

Author summary

The STN-GPe network undergoes a change in firing rates as well as increased bursting during excessive β band oscillations during Parkinson’s disease. In this work we uncouple their effects by using a novel neuron model and show that presence of oscillations is contingent on the increase in STN firing rates, however the effect of spike bursting on oscillations depends on the network state. In a network state on the border of oscillatory and non-oscillatory regime, GPe spike bursting strengthens oscillations. The effect of spike bursting in the STN depends on the proportion of GPe neurons bursting. These results suggest a mechanism underlying a transient β band oscillation bursts often seen in experimental data.
Matching whole genomes to rare genetic disorders: Identification of potential causative variants using phenotype-weighted knowledge in the CAGI SickKids5 clinical genomes challenge
Authors: Pal Lipika R. , Kundu Kunal , Yin Yizhou , Moult John
Published: July 2019

Precise identification of causative variants from whole-genome sequencing data, including both coding and non-coding variants, is challenging. The CAGI5 SickKids clinical genome challenge provided an opportunity to assess our ability to extract such information. Participants in the challenge were required to match each of 24 whole-genome sequences to the correct phenotypic profile and to identify the disease class of each genome. These are all rare disease cases that have resisted genetic diagnosis in a state-of-the-art pipeline. The patients have a range of eye, neurological, and connective-tissue disorders. We used a gene-centric approach to address this problem, assigning each gene a multi-phenotype-matching score. Mutations in the top scoring genes for each phenotype profile were ranked on a six-point scale of pathogenicity probability, resulting in an approximately equal number of top ranked coding and non-coding candidate variants overall. We were able to assign the correct disease class for 12 cases and the correct genome to a clinical profile for five cases. The challenge assessor found genes in three of these five cases as likely appropriate. In the post-submission phase, after careful screening of the genes in the correct genome we identified additional potential diagnostic variants, a high proportion of which are non-coding.
Quality analysis using three-dimensional modelling and image processing techniques
Authors: Marzouk Mohamed , Hassouna Mahmoud
Published: July 2019

Purpose

This paper aims to propose a system for defect detection in constructed elements that is able to indicate deformity positions. It also evaluates the defects in finishing materials of constructed building elements to support the subjective visual quality investigation of the aesthetics of an architectural work.

Design/methodology/approach

This strategy depends on defect features analysis that evaluates the defect value in digital images using digital image processing methods. The research uses the three-dimensional (3D) modeling techniques and image processing algorithms to generate a system that is able to perform some of the monitoring activities by computers. Based on the collected site scans, a 3D model is created for the building. Then, several images can be exported from the 3D model to investigate a specific element. Different image denoizing techniques are compared such as mean filter, median filter, Wiener filter and Split–Bregman iterations. The most efficient technique is implemented in the system. Then, the following six different methods are used for image segmentation to separate the concerned object from the background; color segmentation, region growing segmentation, histogram segmentation, local standard deviation segmentation, adaptive threshold segmentation and mean-shift cluster segmentation.

Findings

The proposed system is able to detect the cracks and defected areas in finishing works and calculate the percentage of the defected area compared to the total captured area in the photo with high accuracy.

Originality/value

The proposed system increases the precision of decision-making by decreasing the contribution of human subjective judgment. Investigation of different finishing surfaces is applied to validate the proposed system.
Free convection in an inclined cavity filled with a nanofluid and with sinusoidal temperature on the walls
Authors: Cimpean Dalia Sabina , Pop Ioan
Published: July 2019

Purpose

This paper aims to develop a numerical study of the steady natural convection in an inclined square porous cavity filled by a nanofluid with sinusoidal temperature distribution on the side walls and adiabatic conditions on the upper and lower walls.

Design/methodology/approach

Governing equations transformed in terms of the dimensionless variables using the Darcy–Boussinesq approximation have been solved numerically using a central finite-difference scheme. The Gaus-Siedel iteration technique was used for the system of discretized equations. The two-phase nanofluid model including the Brownian diffusion and thermophoresis effects has been considered for simulation of nanofluid transport inside the cavity.

Findings

The numerical results of streamlines, isotherms and isoconcentrations are investigated and the effect of different important parameters, such as inclination angle of the cavity, amplitude ratio of the sinusoidal temperature or phase deviation, is discussed. The results obtained for no inclination of the cavity are compared and successfully validated with previous reported results of the literature. The important findings of the study are focused on the changes made by the inclination angle and the periodic thermal boundary conditions, on the heat and fluid flow.

Originality/value

The originality of the present study is given by the mathematical model presented for an inclined cavity, the numerical solution with new results for inclined cavity and the applications for design of solar energy devices such as solar collectors in which the boundary conditions vary with time because of changes in weather conditions.
Numerical study of unsteady flow and heat transfer CNT-based MHD nanofluid with variable viscosity over a permeable shrinking surface
Authors: Ahmed Zahid , Nadeem Sohail , Saleem Salman , Ellahi Rahmat
Published: July 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present a novel model on the unsteady MHD flow of heat transfer in carbon nanotubes with variable viscosity over a shrinking surface.

Design/methodology/approach

The temperature-dependent viscosity makes the proposed model non-linear and coupled. Consequently, the resulting non-linear partial differential equations are first reformed into set of ordinary differential equations through appropriate transformations and boundary layer approximation and are then solved numerically by the Keller box method.

Findings

Graphical and numerical results are executed keeping temperature-dependent viscosity of nanofluid. It is noted that, for diverse critical points, it is found that at one side of these critical values, multiple solutions exist; on the other side, no solution exists. A comparison is also computed for the special case of existing study. The temperature and pressure profiles are also plotted for various effective parameters.

Originality/value

The work is original.
Talent management meta review: a validity network schema approach
Authors: Shulga Lenna V. , Busser James A.
Published: July 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to critically assess the state of substantive, methodological and conceptual development of talent management (TM) within hospitality and business research and to identify gaps, examine debates and provide hospitality research direction.

Design/methodology/approach

After identifying 545 articles from 22 peer-reviewed journals from Google Scholar using “talent management,” only articles directly related to TM (n = 149) were analyzed using the validity network schema (VNS). The advantage of the VNS approach is in-depth analysis of the three research domains – substantive, methodological, and conceptual – and evaluation of the pathways between domains emerging in a unique hospitality TM perspective.

Findings

Substantive domain TM discourse analysis identified 12 general and 5 hospitality-related topics. The resulting research framework depicted how global trends, organizational, employee-specific factors and organizational-management tactics affect (1) organizational, (2) personal, (3) societal, and (4) customer outcomes. Methodological domain analysis revealed business TM research in the mature stage, while hospitality TM research is in the embryonic stage of development. TM researchers predominantly used observational, descriptive and industry-specific data, advancing the field with associated research frameworks. Conceptual domain analysis uncovered opportunities to advance theoretical foundations and test causal relationships.

Originality/value

VNS analysis identified the importance of conceptual, methodological and substantive domains of TM research. The comprehensive TM research framework was proposed with eight research pathways to guide future hospitality studies. This paper advances the unique hospitality industry-specific scholarship and practice, focused on employee well-being rather than solely organizational gain.
Macroeconomic conditions at workforce entry and job satisfaction
Authors: Çitçi Sadettin Haluk , Begen Nazire
Published: July 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine whether individual experiences at workforce entry affect later job satisfaction.

Design/methodology/approach

This study utilized the British Household Panel Survey for the years between 1991 and 2008. Ordered probit estimation is used for the analysis. Also fixed effect and pooled ordinary least squares methods are employed to make robustness check.

Findings

The results of the analyses show that people who enter the workforce when the unemployment rate is high have less job satisfaction even in later ages compared to the ones who enter the workforce when the unemployment rate is lower. Even controlling for important factors on job satisfaction, such as industry and occupation differences, age, gender and income, the effect of workforce entry conditions on job satisfaction continues to survive. The results indicate that high unemployment has larger and longer lasting negative welfare effects than commonly predicted.

Social implications

An increment in workforce entry unemployment rate causes lower job satisfaction even years later of these early workforce experiences. The results indicate that high unemployment has larger and longer lasting negative welfare effects than commonly predicted.

Originality/value

The study is among the few that investigates macroeconomic experiences on job satisfaction and the first one providing evidence on the negative effect of entering the workforce in worse economic conditions on later job satisfaction.
The effect of immigration on natives’ task specialisation: the case of Germany
Authors: Sebastian Raquel , Ulceluse Magdalena
Published: July 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyse the effect of an increase in the relative supply of immigrants on natives’ task reallocation, with a focus on Germany. Specifically, it investigates whether natives, as a response to increased immigration, re-specialise in communication-intensive occupations, where they arguably have a comparative advantage due to language proficiency.

Design/methodology/approach

The analysis uses regional data from the German Labour Force Survey between 2002 and 2014. To derive data on job tasks requirements, it employs the US Department of Labor’s O*NET database, the results of which are tested through a sensitivity analysis using the European Working Condition Survey and the Programme for the International Assessment of Adult Competencies data sets.

Findings

The paper finds that indeed German workers respond to increasing immigration by shifting their task supply and providing more communication relative to manual tasks. Importantly, the decrease in the supply of communication tasks is stronger and more robust than the increase in the supply of manual tasks, pointing to a potential displacement effect taking place between natives and immigrants, alongside task reallocation. This would suggest that countries with relatively more rigid labour markets are less responsive to immigration shocks. Moreover, it suggests that labour market rigidity can minimise the gains from immigration and exacerbate employment effects.

Originality/value

The paper not only investigates task reallocation as a result of immigration in a different institutional context and labour market functioning, but the results feed into broader policy and scholarly discussions on the effects of immigration, including questions about how the institutional context affects labour market adjustment to immigration, worker occupational mobility in a more rigid labour markets and the fine balance needed between flexibility and rigidity.
Sustainable service supply chain practices (SSSCPs): a framework development
Authors: Aliakbari Nouri Fahimeh , Shafiei Nikabadi Mohsen , Olfat Laya
Published: July 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to develop a framework of sustainable service supply chain management (SCM) processes and practices in the multi-dimensional construct. It tries to provide a template for those sustainability general key practices that can be scheduled and budgeted in different service sectors.

Design/methodology/approach

To provide an applicable framework, its adaptability to most service settings should be ensured. In this regard, at first, the related literature on service SCM processes and sustainability practices of SCM are reviewed. To modify and confirm the extracted list, it is distributed to experts. After summarizing experts’ opinions, an initial list of the sustainable service supply chain practices (SSSCPs) is provided. Finally, the Fuzzy Delphi Method is applied to construct the framework for hospital supply chain (SC).

Findings

It suggests that the SSSCPs can be constructed in terms of seven major processes: managing the sustainable supplier, sustainable employee, sustainable customer, sustainable service performance, sustainable service operations, sustainable external relations, and sustainable knowledge, information and technology.

Practical implications

The framework can be employed as a template of sustainability practices for individual member firms of service SCs to identify and implement the key practices toward sustainability.

Originality/value

Reviewing the literature indicates that determining what is unique about the sustainable SCM in the service sector is immature. The paper is a preliminary effort to identify the general sustainability practices, in incorporating all sustainability dimensions in service SC processes.
Yoga wellness tourism: a study of marketing strategies in India
Authors: Telej Ewelina , Gamble Jordan Robert
Published: July 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine marketing strategies that India is currently applying to promote itself as a competitive yoga destination.

Design/methodology/approach

The methodological approach consisted of a constructivist research paradigm, a qualitative methodology and an interview-based data collection method. Ten in-depth, semi-structured interviews were conducted with yoga practitioners from various backgrounds and yoga levels who have travelled to India for yoga tourism purposes.

Findings

The findings determined that interpretation of yoga tourism is crucial in the choice of marketing approach adopted by destinations offering yoga retreats because, as the study has shown, various perceptions of yoga constitute the basis for particular promotional strategies.

Research limitations/implications

Future research could expand on the sample size and demographics of the current study by investigating, possibly through comparative means, larger groups of more diversified yoga practitioners from different countries or backgrounds.

Practical implications

It was recommended that India’s tourism marketers re-design their approach concerning an ‘authentic’ yoga experience. Indian destination marketing organisations should target those searching for an authentic yoga experience and use imagery that is realistic.

Originality/value

The findings of this study have led to the re-positioning of yoga tourism in India, utilising a unique combinative approach in which a more inclusive concept of wellness is juxtaposed against a lack of any religious referencing. It was also revealed that the motivations of yoga tourists are only partially targeted through an undifferentiated strategic marketing approach.
Synergy within the West African Triple Helix innovation systems as measured with game theory
Authors: Mêgnigbêto Eustache
Published: July 2019

Purpose

University, industry and government relationships, known under the Triple Helix, have been studied under various aspects. The West African region and countries have been analysed with mutual information and transmission power, two information theory-based indicators. The purpose of this paper is to portray the landscape of West African Triple Helix innovation systems using three main game theory indicators (core, Shapley value and nucleolus) with the objective to measure the synergy within the selected innovation systems.

Design/methodology/approach

The collaboration between university, industry and government is modelled as a three-person coalitional game. Bibliographical data of selected countries were collected from Web of Science and organised according to collaboration patterns between the three actors. The characteristic functions of the games were computed, the cores plotted, the Shapley values and the nucleoli computed.

Findings

Either university or government has more power to create and lead to synergy; government shows solidarity towards university and industry in most of countries; and they are joined in their efforts by industry in two countries. The core exists in all the countries meaning that all the selected innovation systems present synergy; however, the extent is limited and varies over countries.

Research limitations/implications

Innovation includes all research products; however, this study focuses on publications only.

Originality/value

Synergy within a Triple Helix innovation system is studied up to now with information theory indicators. The paper portrays the landscape of West African Triple Helix innovation systems using three main game theory indicators: the core, the Shapley value and the nucleolus and gives a new way to study university, industry and government relationships.
Is love really blind? The effect of emotional brand attachment on the perceived risk of really new products
Authors: Aboulnasr Khaled , Tran Gina A.
Published: July 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the role of emotional brand attachment in consumers’ evaluation of new products that represent technological innovation.

Design/methodology/approach

A quantitative study was conducted using survey data from a nationally representative probability sample of US consumers (n= 624) to understand the role of emotional brand attachment in the context of consumers’ evaluation of really new products (RNPs). A framework was developed and tested using structural equation modeling that included emotional brand attachment, brand trust, product incongruity, product familiarity, perceived risk, willingness to try, product evaluation and word-of-mouth intentions.

Findings

The results support the role of emotional brand attachment in the diffusion of RNPs. Specifically, results indicated that increased brand attachment reduces consumers’ perceived risk associated with a RNP and increases brand trust. Both constructs played a key role in shaping willingness to try the innovation, word-of-mouth intentions and product evaluation. Findings of this paper add explanatory power to demand-prediction models that more accurately describe the mechanism of the innovation adoption process. For marketing managers, the results emphasize the importance of consumer–brand emotional connections.

Research limitations/implications

The paper used a cross-sectional design; it would be interesting to use a longitudinal design to examine if the role of emotional brand attachment changes over time and how the changes might impact consumers’ perceptions and behaviors in the context of RNPs.

Originality/value

This is the first paper to explore the role of emotional brand attachment in the context of RNPs and consumers’ potential behavioral outcomes.
Multiple slip effects on MHD non-Newtonian nanofluid flow over a nonlinear permeable elongated sheet
Authors: Raza Jawad , Farooq Mushayydha , Mebarek-Oudina Fateh , Mahanthesh B.
Published: July 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the interaction effects of a transverse magnetic field and slip effects of Casson fluid with suspended nanoparticles over a nonlinear stretching surface. Mathematical modeling for the law of conservation of mass, momentum, heat and concentration of nanoparticles is executed.

Design/methodology/approach

Governing nonlinear partial differential equations are reduced into nonlinear ordinary differential equations and then shooting method is employed for its solution. The slope of the linear regression line of the data points is calculated to measure the rate of increase/decrease in the reduced Nusselt number.

Findings

The effects of magnetic parameter (0=M=4), Casson parameter (0.1=β<8), nonlinear stretching parameter (0=n=3) and porosity parameter (0=P=6) on axial velocity are shown graphically. Numerical results were compared with another numerical approach and an excellent agreement was observed. This study reveals the fact that the Brownian motion parameter and boundary layer thickness have a direct relationship with temperature. Also, Brownian motion and thermophoresis contribute to an increase in the thermal boundary layer thickness.

Originality/value

Despite the immense significance and repeated employment of non-Newtonian fluids in industry and science, no attempt has been made up till now to inspect the Casson nanofluid flow with a permeable nonlinear stretching surface.
Antioxidative effect of drumstick (Moringa oleifera L.) flower on the quality and stability of goat meat nuggets
Authors: Verma Arun Kumar , Rajkumar Vincentraju , Kumar M. Suman , Jayant Shiv Kumar
Published: July 2019

Purpose

This paper aims to explore the application of drumstick (Moringa oleifera) flower (DF) as a functional antioxidative ingredient in goat meat product.

Design/methodology/approach

Dried DF was included in the product formulation at 1% (Treatment I) and 2% (Treatment II) levels. The physicochemical, colour, textural and sensory quality as well as storage stability of nuggets with DF were determined against control.

Findings

The dried DF was found to be rich source of protein and dietary fibre, possessing good antioxidant potential. Chromatographic analysis of DF extract showed presence of 14 active principles known to have antioxidative properties. Inclusion of dried DF decreased pH values of emulsion (p = 0.005) as well as nuggets (p < 0.001) and increased (p < 0.001) the ash, dietary fibre and phenolic contents. The added DF affected the product’s lightness (p = 0.017), yellowness (p < 0.001, hardness (p < 0.001), adhesiveness (p = 0.032), cohesiveness (p = 0.006), gumminess and chewiness (p < 0.001). Sensory characteristics of control and product with DF were statistically similar except low (p = 0.002) flavour score for Treatment II. DF inclusion lowered (p < 0.001) thiobarbituric acid reactive substances number and total plate count.

Research limitations/implications

DF can be used as a source of antioxidants and dietary fibre in goat meat nuggets to enhance their health value, functionality and storage stability.

Originality/value

Foods including goat meat nuggets enriched with goodness of functional ingredients like dietary fibre and natural antioxidants are gaining consumer’s preference globally. Inclusion of drumstick flower in goat meat nuggets significantly increases the dietary fibre and antioxidants making such products healthier and more stable. Consumption of goat meat nuggets added with drumstick flower is expected to improve consumer’s well-being as well.
The presence of citizen science in sustainability reporting
Authors: Millar Edward , Searcy Cory
Published: July 2019

Purpose

Ongoing environmental threats have intensified the need for firms to take big leaps forward to operate in a manner that is both ecologically sustainable and socially responsible. This paper aims to assess the degree to which firms are adopting citizen science as a tool to achieve sustainability and social responsibility targets.

Design/methodology/approach

This study applies a qualitative content analysis approach to assess the current presence of citizen science in sustainability and social responsibility reports issued by Globescan sustainability leaders and by firms ranked by the Fortune 500 and Fortune Global 500.

Findings

While the term itself is mostly absent from reports, firms are reporting on a range of activities that could be classified as a form of “citizen science.”

Practical implications

Citizen science can help firms achieve their corporate sustainability and corporate social responsibility goals and targets. Linking sustainability and social responsibility efforts to this existing framework can help triangulate corporate efforts to engage with stakeholders, collect data about the state of the environment and promote better stewardship of natural resources.

Social implications

Supporting citizen science can help firms work toward meeting UN Sustainable Development Goals, which have highlighted the importance of collaborative efforts that can engage a broad range of stakeholders in the transition to more sustainable business models.

Originality/value

This paper is the first to examine citizen science in a corporate sustainability and social responsibility context. The findings present information to support improvements to the development of locally relevant science-based indicators; real-time monitoring of natural resources and supply chain sustainability; and participatory forums for stakeholders including suppliers, end users and the broader community.
Executive Environmental Law
Authors: Fisher Elizabeth
Published: July 2019

The Draft Environment (Principles and Governance) Bill published by DEFRA in late 2018 is part of a process of reimagining environmental law in light of Brexit. The Draft Bill creates frameworks for policy statements on environmental principles and environmental implementation plans, as well as creating a new enforcement body – the Office for Environmental Protection. This Draft Bill is, at the very least, an ineffectual response to the challenges of environmental law post‐Brexit. More alarmingly, it raises the possibility of a legal future in which the executive dominates how the norms, ambitions, and accountabilities of environmental law are defined. These are matters of concern for environmental and public lawyers alike.
Reason‐Giving in Administrative Law: Where are We and Why have the Courts not Embraced the ‘General Common Law Duty to Give Reasons’?
Authors: Bell Joanna
Published: July 2019

This article has two aims. Firstly, it explores a body of modern challenges to administrative reason‐giving, decided in the five‐year period 2014–2018. Three main themes are drawn out: outright failures to give reasons now seem to be a rare occurrence; a number of considerations help to ensure that at least an outline of reasons is usually offered by decision‐makers; common law fairness plays a limited role in testing the adequacy of reasons. Secondly, it addresses the question of why the courts have not embraced a ‘general common law duty to give reasons.’ Four factors are discussed: doubts that introducing a general duty would add something of substance to the law; difficulties inherent in developing a general formulation of the reasons required; weaknesses in the ‘hortatory’ case for a general duty and weaker commitment on the part of judges than academics to generality as a central feature of administrative law doctrine.
Efficacy of uric acid‐lowering therapy on hypercholesterolemia and hypertriglyceridemia in gouty patients
Authors: Wu Jing , Zhang Yu‐Ping , Qu Yuan , Jie Li‐Gang , Deng Jia‐Xin , Yu Qing‐Hong
Published: July 2019

Aim

To investigate the effects on hypercholesterolemia and hypertriglyceridemia in gouty patients receiving uric acid‐lowering therapy (UALT).

Methods

A retrospective study was performed from January 2015 to December 2017 in gouty patients receiving UALT. A total of 124 gouty patients with hypercholesterolemia or hypertriglyceridemia who were administered UALT were monitored. Of the 124 patients with gout, 52 were treated with febuxostat, 29 were treated with allopurinol, and 43 were treated with benzbromarone. Cholesterol and triglyceride levels were recorded and analyzed following treatment for 8‐10 weeks.

Results

We compared the efficacy of febuxostat, allopurinol, and benzbromarone. All therapies mildly influenced serum cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Febuxostat significantly decreased cholesterol and triglyceride levels in patients who did not receive lipid‐lowering therapy. Allopurinol and benzbromarone modestly decreased triglyceride levels, but cholesterol levels were unaffected.

Conclusion

Uric acid‐lowering therapy benefits hyperlipidemia in gouty patients. Febuxostat effectively improved serum cholesterol and triglyceride levels compared to allopurinol and benzbromarone in patients with gout.
State mindfulness, rumination, and emotions in daily life: An ambulatory assessment study
Authors: Ding Xu , Du Jiaxuan , Zhou Yuyang , An Yuanyuan , Xu Wei , Zhang Ning
Published: July 2019

While the majority of studies have focused on dispositional mindfulness and the efficacy of mindfulness meditation, there has been limited study exploring the effect of state mindfulness on emotions and its potential mechanism. Therefore, we conducted an ambulatory assessment study to monitor state mindfulness and emotions in daily life and examine the mediating effect of rumination in a natural context. One hundred Chinese university students rated their state mindfulness, rumination, and emotions (e.g., anxiety, depression, happiness) five times per day for a week. Using hierarchical linear models, we and found that at the within‐person level, higher current state mindfulness was associated with more subsequent positive emotions and less subsequent negative emotions. Current rumination partially mediated the relation between current state mindfulness and subsequent positive emotions (happiness, relaxation, contentment, interest) and negative emotions (depression, anger, boredom, sadness). At the between‐person level, higher state mindfulness was associated with more positive emotions and less negative emotions. Individuals’ overall rumination partially mediated the relation between state mindfulness and emotions (depression, anger, boredom, sadness, relaxation). We concluded that higher state mindfulness was associated with lower rumination, which in turn resulted in more positive emotions and less negative emotions. More important, state mindfulness also exerted a dynamic impact on daily emotions via rumination.
Future of the drug label: Perspectives from a multistakeholder dialogue
Authors: Gispen‐de Wied Christine C. , Weemers Just , Boon Wouter , Mol Peter G.M. , Stolk Pieter
Published: July 2019

Regulating drugs does not end when market access has been granted. Monitoring drugs over the life cycle has become state of the art, inherent to evolving legislation and societal need. Here, we explore how the drug label could move along in a changing playing‐field and become a sustainable label for the future. A dialogue between academia, government, the pharmaceutical industry and patient/societal organizations was organized by the Regulatory Science Network Netherlands. This is their view.
Teaching medical students digital rectal examination: a randomized study of simulated model vs rectal examination volunteers
Authors: Patel Manish I. , Kakala Benedict , Beattie Kieran
Published: July 2019

Objectives

To determine if using a digital rectal examination (DRE) human volunteer improves medical students’ confidence in performing DRE in comparison to using a simulated model alone.

Participants and Methods

Medical students underwent randomization into one of two groups: a control group who underwent standard teaching and an intervention group who underwent standard teaching plus further tuition involving a DRE volunteer. Standard teaching involved a 30‐min lecture and a practice DRE on a simulation model. The intervention group additionally observed a tutor demonstrating DRE on a volunteer, then conducted a DRE themselves under supervision. Before and after teaching, both groups completed a survey comprised of three questions. The primary endpoint was confidence in performing a DRE, which was assessed according to the sum of the scores from the three questions.

Results

In total, 48 students were randomized, 22 to the control group and 26 to the intervention group. The groups were well matched prior to teaching DRE (P = 0.76) After the DRE tutorial, students in the intervention group were more confident in knowing the indications for DRE (P = 0.001), more confident in their technique for performing DRE (P < 0.001) and more confident in their ability to assess findings accurately at DRE (P < 0.001). The primary outcome measure, overall confidence (sum of the scores from all three questions) in performing DRE, was significantly better in the intervention group (score 10/15 vs 14/15; P < 0.001).

Conclusion

This study showed that teaching DRE with the assistance of volunteer patients improves inexperienced students’ confidence in performing DRE, and the incorporation of such training should be considered in the DRE education programme.
Discrimination and Sleep Mediate Ethnic/Racial Identity and Adolescent Adjustment: Uncovering Change Processes With Slope‐as‐Mediator Mediation
Authors: Yip Tiffany , Cham Heining , Wang Yijie , El‐Sheikh Mona
Published: July 2019

This study employs slope‐as‐mediator techniques to explore how the daily association between ethnic/racial discrimination and sleep disturbances serves as an intermediary link between ethnic/racial identity (ERI) and psychological adjustment. In a diverse sample of 264 adolescents (Mage = 14.3 years old, 70% female, 76% United States born, 25% African American, 32% Asian American, 43% Latinx), discrimination was associated with sleep disturbance. Furthermore, ERI commitment buffered the impact of discrimination on sleep, whereas ERI exploration exacerbated the impact of discrimination. Finally, the daily level association between discrimination and sleep (i.e., daily slope) mediated the association between ERI and adolescent adjustment. Substantive links between discrimination and sleep are discussed as well as broader applications of slope‐as‐mediator techniques.
Elevated levels of hsa_circ_006100 in gastric cancer promote cell growth and metastasis via miR‐195/GPRC5A signalling
Authors: Liang Min , Huang Guanqun , Liu Zhaoyu , Wang Qi , Yu Zhongjian , Liu Zhile , Lin Hai , Li Ming , Zhou Xinke , Zheng Yanfang
Published: July 2019

Objectives

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are non‐coding RNAs, some of which are thought to be involved in gastric cancer development. Here, we examined the functions of circRNA hsa_circ_006100 in gastric cancer cells and an animal model of gastric cancer.

Materials and Methods

The expression of hsa_circ_006100, miR‐195 and various functional genes was determined by quantitative RT‐PCR. Cell viability, clone formation, apoptosis and cell migration/invasion abilities were analysed by the CCK‐8 assay, crystal violet staining, Hoechst staining and Transwell assay, respectively. A tumour model was established by subcutaneously injecting tumour cells into nude mice. Levels of protein expression were analysed by Western blotting and immunohistochemistry.

Results

A bioinformatics analysis showed that miR‐195 was negatively co‐expressed with hsa_circ_006100. Patients with a high hsa_circ_006100 level or low miR‐195 level had tumours with a high TNM stage, poor cellular differentiation and lymph node metastasis. miR‐195 was targeted and inhibited by hsa_circ_006100. Overexpression of hsa_circ_006100 enhanced cellular viability and proliferation, while miR‐195 suppressed hsa_circ_006100‐enhanced cell growth and induced apoptosis in MGC‐803 and AGS cells. Forced hsa_circ_006100 expression promoted the migration and invasion of MGC‐803 and AGS cells, while those activities were inhibited by miR‐195. Mechanistically, GPRC5A was predicted as a target of miR‐195 and was upregulated in gastric cancer. A miR‐195 inhibitor restored cell viability, proliferation, migration and invasion, and repressed apoptosis via GPRC5A. In vivo studies showed that knockdown of hsa_circ_006100 delayed tumour growth, reduced PCNA expression and upregulated miR‐195 and BCL‐2 expression which was restored by miR‐195 inhibition due to GPRC5A/EGFR signalling, and changed the EMT phenotype in vivo.

Conclusions

Hsa_circ_006100 functions as an oncogene in gastric cancer and exerts its effects via miR‐195/GPRC5A signalling.
Prescription drug monitoring programs and drug overdose deaths involving benzodiazepines and prescription opioids
Authors: Liang Di , Shi Yuyan
Published: July 2019

Background and Aims

In the US, benzodiazepine overdose deaths increased at an alarming rate in the past two decades. Benzodiazepines were also the most common drugs involved in prescription opioid overdose deaths. Benzodiazepine prescribing has been monitored by Prescription Drug Monitoring Programs (PDMPs), but little was known about whether PDMPs reduced drug overdose deaths involving benzodiazepines.

Design and Methods

This study used a difference‐in‐difference design with state‐quarter aggregate data on drug overdose deaths. The primary data source was Mortality Multiple Cause Files in 1999–2016. Three age‐adjusted rates of drug overdose deaths were examined, including those involving benzodiazepines, those involving prescription opioids, and those involving both benzodiazepines and prescription opioids. The policy variables included PDMP data access for benzodiazepines and mandatory use of PDMP data for benzodiazepines. Linear multivariable regressions were used to assess the associations of PDMP policies specific to benzodiazepines with drug overdose death rates, controlling for other state‐level policy and socioeconomic factors, state and time fixed effects, and state‐specific time trends.

Results

No significant associations were found between PDMP data access for benzodiazepines and changes in drug overdose death rates involving benzodiazepines and/or prescription opioids. Similarly, no significant associations were found between mandatory use of PDMP data for benzodiazepines and changes in drug overdose death outcomes.

Discussion and Conclusions

This study suggested no evidence that PDMP policies specific to benzodiazepines were associated with reduction in benzodiazepine overdose death rates. Future research is warranted to examine detailed features of PDMPs and continuously monitor the impacts of PDMP policies on benzodiazepine‐related consequences.
Missing in action: Insights from an exploratory ethnographic observation study of alcohol in everyday UK community pharmacy practice
Authors: Morris Stephanie , Madden Mary , Gough Brendan , Atkin Karl , Mccambridge Jim
Published: July 2019

Introduction and Aims

This paper reports on an exploratory ethnographic observation study which aimed to understand how alcohol fits into routine service provision in the New Medicine Service (NMS), Medication Use Reviews (MUR) and pharmacists’ everyday practices in UK community pharmacies.

Design and Methods

Observations were undertaken in five community pharmacies featuring nine community pharmacists. This involved observation of 16 MURs and 15 NMS consultations and informal interviews with pharmacists as they conducted their work. Fieldnotes were subjected to a constructionist thematic analysis.

Results

Pharmacists were underprepared and unconfident in discussing alcohol in medicine consultations. Most pharmacists raised alcohol consumption in the MUR and NMS as part of a ‘lifestyle check’. They reported that alcohol was difficult to raise, and to discuss and that people were reluctant to talk about their drinking. Their main concern was that raising the topic would alienate customers.

Discussion and Conclusions

These findings raise questions regarding a range of issues about how pharmacists discuss alcohol in medicines consultations, why they lack a clear sense of purpose in doing so and therefore where alcohol fits into UK community pharmacy practice.