bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Improving entrepreneurship education in primary schools: a pioneer project
Authors: Floris Michela , Pillitu Daniela
Published: August 2019

Purpose

As one of the eight key competencies of life-long learning strategies identified by the European Union and the difficulties in enhancing the “sense of initiative and entrepreneurship”, the purpose of this paper is to propose a co-production approach to overcome several concerns.

Design/methodology/approach

An exploratory approach is used to analyse a single case study based on the EntreComp progression model and on a pedagogical approach consistent with the philosophy of learning through creating value for others.

Findings

The study introduces best novel practices that help enhance entrepreneurial education in primary school by engaging multiple local stakeholders in co-producing education. The case mainly shows that a co-production approach is appropriate to overcome challenges and assists policymakers to identify specific actions and make investments in entrepreneurship education (EE) at the primary level.

Research limitations/implications

Theoretically, the study contributes to literature on entrepreneurial education and co-production studies. The main drawback of the study is its explorative analysis of a single case.

Practical implications

For practitioners, the research proposes stakeholder involvement as key to co-producing EE in primary schools, implying that policymakers should identify resources for projects and other similar initiatives.

Originality/value

The study elucidates the relevance of co-production approach to ensure early EE in school.
Office design and organizational change
Authors: Smollan Roy K. , Morrison Rachel L.
Published: August 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to compare different employee perceptions of the success of one change: a move to new offices and an open-plan design.

Design/methodology/approach

In sum, 25 interviews were carried out in a New Zealand law firm that six months earlier had moved to new premises.

Findings

Contrary to academic and practitioner reports that open-plan offices are disliked, participants appreciated the new office space. A well-planned and highly participative program of change management led to positive perceptions of aesthetic design, open communication, collegiality, egalitarianism and inclusiveness.

Research limitations/implications

Given the small sample used in one organization, the study highlights the need for more research into the processes and outcomes of office space changes.

Originality/value

The roles of communication and culture, in particular, collegiality and egalitarianism, were salient factors in a complex web of causes and consequences in this context of change.
FINRA relaxes restrictions on pre-inception performance data
Authors: Kerr Richard F. , Rogers Matthew J.
Published: August 2019

Purpose

To explain the significance of a recently issued interpretive letter in which FINRA staff agreed to permit the use of pre-inception index performance data by passively managed, registered open-end investment companies.

Design/methodology/approach

FINRA recently issued an interpretive letter extending previously issued guidance by permitting passively managed open-end registered investment companies including separately-managed series of a business trust to use pre-inception index performance data in Institutional Communications.

Findings

The 2019 Letter is an important shift in how FINRA staff views PIP data in Institutional Communications by acknowledging that passively managed open-end funds should be treated in a similar manner as passively managed exchange-traded funds. This shift will be a welcome development for FINRA member firms wishing to include PIP data in marketing materials for the passively managed open-end funds they distribute.

Originality/value

Practical guidance from experienced investment management and broker-dealer lawyers.
Sharia-compliance and investment-cash flow sensitivity in oil rich countries
Authors: Guizani Moncef
Published: August 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the effect of Sharia-compliance (SC) on investment sensitivity to internal funds in oil rich countries.

Design/methodology/approach

A fixed-effect panel technique with OLS regression is used to investigate such relationship applying data from a sample of 207 non-financial firms listed on the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) stock markets over the period 2009–2014.

Findings

The results show that the investment-cash flow (ICF) sensitivity is positive, and is a lot larger for more constrained firms. Compared to developed markets, the results show higher ICF sensitivity in GCC countries. The evidence also shows that SC decreases the dependence of firms on internally generated funds when undertaking new investment projects. Unexpectedly, the results reveal that the ICF sensitivity increases when liquidity becomes abundant. Additional analysis suggests that investment expenditures of firms display a greater sensitivity to cash flow in the crisis period.

Practical implications

The implications of this study are that SC is a nature of business that reduces the propensity of corporations to undertake inefficient investments that are derived from capital market imperfections. However, manager ability to overinvest increases when liquidity is abundant suggesting that cash-rich firms are more likely to engage in value-decreasing projects.

Originality/value

The proposed study presents several originalities. First, it provides evidence on ICF sensitivity in specific emerging economies, namely the GCC countries. Second, it highlights the issue of efficient investment. For this purpose, the present paper focuses on Sharia-compliant (SC) firms where financial constraints are bound to be more stringent than for non-Sharia-compliant (NSC) firms. Finally, the study findings enable us to investigate what the sudden abundance of liquidity, generated by the record levels of oil prices, as well as the financial crisis implied for the ICF relationship.
How do moth and butterfly taste?—Molecular basis of gustatory receptors in Lepidoptera
Authors: Xu Wei
Published: August 2019

Insect gustatory system plays a central role in guiding insect feeding behaviors, insect–plant interactions and coevolutions. Gustatory receptors (GRs) form the interface between the insect taste system and their environment. Previously, most studies on insect GRs are focused on Drosophila; much less attention has been paid to Lepidoptera species, which consist of a large number of serious agricultural crop pests. With the exceptional advances in the next generation sequencing (NGS), cellular biology, RNA interference (RNAi), and clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR) technologies in recent years, extraordinary progresses have been achieved elucidating the molecular mechanisms of Lepidopteran GRs. In this review, we highlighted these advances, discussed what these advances have revealed and provide our new insights into this field.
Sorry, could you repeat the question? Exploring video‐interview recruitment practice in HRM
Authors: McColl Rod , Michelotti Marco
Published: August 2019

HRM has embraced video interviewing through verbal computer‐mediated communication (VCMC) technology. However, empirical research in recruitment remains scant. Drawing on communication theories to analyse data from three studies, we present a conceptual framework explaining VCMC adoption and practice. We argue that VCMC technology has a larger effect on recruitment and selection outcomes than presumed. We broaden signalling theory to video recruitment and posit that interaction effects due to characteristics of the technology and a candidate's personality may affect recruitment outcomes. We also broaden media richness theory by uncovering memory effects arising from multiple interview modes. HR managers should be mindful of these and others limitations highlighted in the study before fully embracing this technology.
Bone sialoprotein‐αvβ3 integrin axis promotes breast cancer metastasis to the bone
Authors: Wang Li , Song Lijie , Li Juan , Wang Yan , Yang Chuanhong , Kou Xiaomei , Xiao Bin , Zhang Wei , Li Linhai , Liu Shuwen , Wang Jie
Published: August 2019

The underlying mechanisms of breast cancer cells metastasizing to distant sites are complex and multifactorial. Bone sialoprotein (BSP) and αvβ3 integrin were reported to promote the metastatic progress of breast cancer cells, particularly metastasis to bone. Most theories presume that BSP promotes breast cancer metastasis by binding to αvβ3 integrin. Interestingly, we found the αvβ3 integrin decreased in BSP silenced cells (BSPi), which have weak ability to form bone metastases. However, the relevance of their expression in primary tumor and the way they participate in metastasis are not clear. In this study, we evaluated the relationship between BSP, αvβ3 integrin levels, and the bone metastatic ability of breast cancer cells in patient tissues, and the data indicated that the αvβ3 integrin level is closely correlated to BSP level and metastatic potential. Overexpression of αvβ3 integrin in cancer cells could reverse the effect of BSPi in vitro and promote bone metastasis in a mouse model, whereas knockdown of αvβ3 integrin have effects just like BSPi. Moreover, The Cancer Genome Atlas data and RT‐PCR analysis have also shown that SPP1, KCNK2, and PTK2B might be involved in this process. Thus, we propose that αvβ3 integrin is one of the downstream factors regulated by BSP in the breast cancer‐bone metastatic cascade.
Microwave dielectric properties of temperature‐stable zircon‐type (Bi, Ce)VO4 solid solution ceramics
Authors: Guo Huan‐Huan , Zhou Di , Liu Wen‐Feng , Pang Li‐Xia , Wang Da‐Wei , Su Jin‐Zhan , Qi Ze‐Ming
Published: August 2019

In the (Bi1 − xCex)VO4 (0 ≤ x ≤ 1) system, we found that the (Bi1 − xCex)VO4 (0 ≤ x ≤ 0.1) belongs to the monoclinic scheelite phase and the (Bi1 − xCex)VO4 (0.7 ≤ x ≤ 1) belongs to the tetragonal zircon phase, while the (Bi1 − xCex)VO4 (0.1 < x < 0.7) belongs to the mixed phases of both monoclinic scheelite and tetragonal zircon structure. Interestingly, two components with near‐zero temperature coefficient of resonant frequency (TCF) appeared in this system. In our previous work, a near‐zero TCF of ~+15 ppm/°C was obtained in a (Bi0.75Ce0.25)VO4 ceramic with a permittivity (εr) of ~47.9 and a Qf (Q = quality factor = 1/dielectric loss; f = resonant frequency) value of ~18 000 GHz (at 7.6 GHz). Furthermore, in the present work, another temperature‐stable microwave dielectric ceramic was obtained in (Bi0.05Ce0.95)VO4 composition sintered at 950°C and exhibits good microwave dielectric properties with a εr of ~11.9, a Qf of ~22 360 GHz (at 10.6 GHz), and a near‐zero TCF of ~+6.6 ppm/°C. The results indicate that this system might be an interesting candidate for microwave device applications.
Walking Propositions: Coming to Know A/r/tographically
Authors: Lee Nicole , Morimoto Ken , Mosavarzadeh Marzieh , Irwin Rita L.
Published: August 2019

This article explores walking as a form of inquiry within a study group at The University of British Columbia committed to a/r/tography. Three propositions are explored and as a result we think more deeply about being present, truly present, to that which we never anticipated. The first proposition, ‘Go for a walk outside, find an object and do something with it’, leads us to think more deeply about being present to possibility: kicking the rock. The second proposition, ‘Walk around your neighbourhood with another. When you find unfamiliar ground, pause, and ground yourself’, leads us to appreciating being present in‐between place and relationality. The third proposition, ‘Follow one another in a line without stopping or speaking’, invites us to explore being present to interiority. Walking in response to these propositions and coming to think deeply about the impact of being present to presence, became important to us as a community of a/r/tographers.
Socket‐shield technique for implant placement to stabilize the facial gingival and osseous architecture: A systematic review
Authors: Mourya Akanksha , Mishra Sunil Kumar , Gaddale Reetika , Chowdhary Ramesh
Published: August 2019

The aim of the present study was to establish the efficacy of the socket‐shield technique (SST) for the stabilization of the facial gingival and osseous architecture. An electronic search including the Cochrane databases, EBSCOhost, Medline/PubMed and Web of Science was performed. Articles related to SST for placing dental implants were included. Articles and abstracts not written in English were excluded. The initial literature search resulted in 113 articles related to questions raised. Hand searching of the journals related to implants and cross‐referencing related to SST within the selected articles resulted in 1 more paper. Finally, 20 full texts and abstract of 1 article were included in the present systematic review: 11 case reports, 6 case series, 1 human randomized control trial (RCT), 1 technical report and 2 animal RCT. Recent modifications in SST, along with long follow‐up studies with increased sample size, provided promising results. This systematic review still recommends that SST should not be used in routine clinical practise until a higher level of evidence established. Further RCT on SST are required to establish the clinical efficacy of this technique.
Sherzer's Discourse‐Centered Approach Applied to Cultural Change Across Generations of Speakers
Authors: Tetreault Chantal
Published: August 2019

This paper considers Sherzer's Discourse‐Centered Approach with respect to language and cultural change within Arab immigrant‐heritage communities in France. Using data pertaining to an Arabic politeness formula, I apply Sherzer's model to situations of grammatical creativity across generations of speakers. I argue that Sherzer's model can enhance our understandings of how speakers living in diaspora transform “traditional” or codified linguistic forms to create reflexive cultural meanings that link and distinguish generations of speakers. Specifically, French‐born, French‐speaking adolescents transform the Arabic speech act Hashek, that their immigration parents use as a term of “formal politeness,” into a means of facilitating face‐threatening acts for their peer group. In so doing, they actively negotiate a set of shifting stances that involves their complicated positioning between teenaged irreverence and cultural continuity. The grammatical creativity of such speech play illustrates the applicability of Sherzer's model for discourse as the nexus of language and culture to contexts of social change.
(Ethno)Poetics and Perspectivism: On the Hieroglyphic Beauty of Ambiguity
Authors: Webster Anthony K.
Published: August 2019

This essay honors the work of Joel Sherzer by using his discourse‐centered approach to language and culture as a way to investigate the place of speech play and verbal art in concerns with interpretative frameworks. An ethnographic and linguistic analysis of a brief poem by Navajo poet Rex Lee Jim is then presented as an example of such an approach. Sherzer's concern with ambiguity is highlighted as a way to contrast a discourse‐centered approach with Perspectivism.
The hierarchy of evidence in advanced wound care: The social organization of limitations in knowledge
Authors: Waters Nicola , Rankin Janet M.
Published: August 2019

In this article, we discuss how we used institutional ethnography (Institutional ethnography as practice, Rowman & Littlefield, Lanham, MD and 2006) to map out powerful ruling relations that organize nurses’ wound care work. In recent years, the growing number of people living with wounds that heal slowly or not at all has presented substantial challenges for those managing the demands on Canada's publicly insured health‐care system. In efforts to address this burden, Canadian health‐care administrators and policy‐makers rely on scientific evidence about how wounds heal and what treatments are most effective. Advanced wound care exemplifies the growing authorization of particular forms of evidence that change the ways in which nurses come to know about and conduct their work. The focus of this paper's nursing inquiry is a critique of registered nurses’ wound work as it arises within the established uptake of scientific evidence.
Intraoperative surfactant administration during neonatal sacrococcygeal teratoma resection
Authors: Au Valerie , Gregory George , Sinskey Jina
Published: August 2019

A very preterm infant with a prenatally diagnosed sacrococcygeal teratoma presented for urgent resection. Intraoperatively, he required massive transfusion due to hemorrhage with progressive decline in lung compliance and hypoxia. Rescue surfactant was given with immediate improvement in ventilation and oxygenation. Surgery was successfully completed without complications.
The Force of Norms? The Internal Point of View in Light of Experimental Economics
Authors: Hoeft Leonard
Published: August 2019

Setting aside its conceptual issues, it remains an open question whether the internal point of view is a good descriptive tool for the behaviour of ordinary citizens or if a sanction‐based explanation of legal compliance is sufficient. This paper will discuss strains of experimental literature corroborating Hart’s criticism of sanction‐based accounts and suggesting that compliance with norms is indeed a shared practice sensitive to social influence. Legal institutions can interact with this shared practice in a way that cannot be reduced to pure incentives. Sanction‐based theories cannot account for norm compliance: They face a challenge in explaining the complex behavioural patterns observed in the minimalistic setting of laboratories.
Residual setup error in the canine intracranial region after megavoltage, kilovoltage, or cone‐beam computed tomographic image guidance for radiation therapy
Authors: Morimoto Celina Y. , Mayer Monique N. , Sidhu Narinder , Bloomfield Rachel , Waldner Cheryl L.
Published: August 2019

Sources of residual setup error after image guidance include image localization accuracy, errors associated with image registration, and inability of some treatment couches to correct submillimeter translational errors and/or pitch and roll errors. The purpose of this experimental study was to measure setup error after image‐guided correction of the canine intracranial region, using a four degrees‐of‐freedom couch capable of 1 mm translational moves. Six cadaver dogs were positioned 45 times as for clinical treatment using a vacuum deformable body cushion, a customizable head cushion, a thermoplastic mask and an indexed maxillary plate with a dental mould. The location of five fiducial markers in the skull bones was compared between the reference position and after megavoltage (MV), kilovoltage (kV) and cone‐beam computed tomography (CBCT)‐guided correction using orthogonal kV images. The mean three‐dimensional distance vectors (3DDV) after MV, kV and CBCT‐guided correction were 1.7, 1.5 and 2.2 mm, respectively. All values were significantly different (P < .01). The 95th percentiles of the 3DDV after online MV, kV and CBCT‐guided correction were 2.8, 2.6 and 3.6 mm, respectively. Residual setup error in the clinical scenario examined was on the order of millimetres and should be considered when choosing PTV margins for image‐guided radiation therapy of the canine intracranial region.
Downregulation of Gabarapl1 significantly attenuates antibody binding to porcine aortic endothelial cells
Authors: Xie Chongwei , Qu Zepeng , Hara Hidetaka , Dai Wenjie , Wang Xiliang , Pan Dengke , Zhou Ming , Dai Yifan , Cai Zhiming , Zhang Junfang , Cooper David K. C. , Mou Lisha
Published: August 2019

After hyperacute rejection in pig‐to‐primate xenotransplantation had been overcome by the introduction of α1,3‐galactosyltransferase gene‐knockout (GTKO) pigs, acute and chronic antibody‐mediated rejection became one of the major barriers to long‐term graft survival. This was associated with exposure of non‐Gal antigens to the recipient's immune system and indicated that further genetic engineering of the pigs would be necessary. We here report that Gabarapl1, a regulator of tumorigenesis, plays a role in the regulation of immunogenicity of porcine aortic endothelial cells (PAECs). Knockdown of Gabarapl1 in PAECs results in a remarkable reduction in binding of serum antibody from PAEC‐immunized monkeys, associated with decreased serum cytotoxicity of pig cells. Expression of swine leukocyte antigens (SLA) II DR was downregulated by Gabarapl1 knockdown. However, suppression of expression of SLA II is associated with less reduction of antibody binding than achieved by Gabarapl1 knockdown, suggesting that other Gabarapl1‐regulated xenoantigens may be more important. These findings indicate a hitherto unknown relationship between Gabarapl1 and xenoimmunogenicity, suggesting a potential new strategy to reduce rejection initiated by the presence of non‐Gal antigens.
A soft matter computer for soft robots
Authors: Garrad M. , Soter G. , Conn A. T. , Hauser H. , Rossiter J.
Published: August 2019

Conductive fluid receptors can be used to create soft matter computers that are suitable for the control of soft robots.
Clinical and Molecular Characteristics of Klebsiella pneumoniae Isolates Causing Bloodstream Infections in Japan: Occurrence of Hypervirulent Infections in Health Care
Authors: Harada Sohei , Aoki Kotaro , Yamamoto Shungo , Ishii Yoshikazu , Sekiya Noritaka , Kurai Hanako , Furukawa Keiichi , Doi Asako , Tochitani Kentaro , Kubo Kenji , Yamaguchi Yukihiro , Narita Masashi , Kamiyama Shinya , Suzuki Jun , Fukuchi Takahiko , Gu Yoshiaki , Okinaka Keiji , Shiiki Soichi , Hayakawa Kayoko , Tachikawa Natsuo , Kasahara Kei , Nakamura Tadahiro , Yokota Kyoko , Komatsu Masanari , Takamiya Misaki , Tateda Kazuhiro , Doi Yohei
Published: August 2019

Although hypervirulent
Klebsiella pneumoniae
(hvKp) has been associated with severe community-acquired infections that occur among relatively healthy individuals, information about hvKp infections in health care settings remains limited. Here, we systematically analyzed the clinical and molecular characteristics of
K. pneumoniae
isolates causing bloodstream infections in a cross-sectional study.
Fc Gamma Receptor Polymorphisms Modulated the Vaccine Effect on HIV-1 Risk in the HVTN 505 HIV Vaccine Trial
Authors: Li Shuying S. , Gilbert Peter B. , Carpp Lindsay N. , Pyo Chul-Woo , Janes Holly , Fong Youyi , Shen Xiaoying , Neidich Scott D. , Goodman Derrick , deCamp Allan , Cohen Kristen W. , Ferrari Guido , Hammer Scott M. , Sobieszczyk Magdalena E. , Mulligan Mark J. , Buchbinder Susan P. , Keefer Michael C. , DeJesus Edwin , Novak Richard M. , Frank Ian , McElrath M. Juliana , Tomaras Georgia D. , Geraghty Daniel E. , Peng Xinxia
Published: August 2019

By analyzing data from the HVTN 505 efficacy trial of a DNA/recombinant adenovirus 5 (rAd5) vaccine regimen, we found that host genetics, specifically Fc gamma receptor genetic variations, influenced whether receiving the DNA/rAd5 regimen was beneficial, neutral, or detrimental to an individual with respect to HIV-1 acquisition risk. Moreover, Fc gamma receptor genetic variations influenced immune responses to the DNA/rAd5 vaccine regimen. Thus, Fc gamma receptor genetic variations should be considered in the analysis of future HIV vaccine trials and the development of HIV vaccines.
Draft Genome Sequence of Vibrio harveyi Strain GAN1807, Isolated from Diseased Greater Amberjack (Seriola dumerili) Farmed in Nomi Bay, Japan, in 2018
Authors: Kato Yusuke , Wada Takayuki , Yamashita Hazuki , Ikeda Takuji , Nishiyama Kei , Imajoh Masayuki
Published: August 2019

Vibrio harveyi
is a Gram-negative, bioluminescent bacterium within the family
Vibrionaceae
. Here, we report the draft genome sequence of
V. harveyi
strain GAN1807, which was isolated from a diseased greater amberjack (
Seriola dumerili
) with symptoms of
V. harveyi
-associated vibriosis in Nomi Bay in Japan.
Whole-Genome Sequencing of Multidrug-Resistant Escherichia coli Strains Harboring the
mcr-1
Gene, Isolated from Seawater of the Algiers Coast in Algeria
Authors: Berrazeg M. , Deriet A. , De Keersmaecker S. C. J. , Verhaegen B. , Vanneste K. , Botteldoorn N. , Roosens N. H. C. , Mouffok F. , Drali R.
Published: August 2019

Colistin resistance has emerged worldwide and is threatening the treatment efficacy of multiresistant
Escherichia coli
strains in humans and animals. Here, we communicate the whole-genome sequencing (WGS) of two colistin-resistant
E. coli
strains, M49 and M78, with genomes sizes of 4,947,168 and 5,178,716 bp, respectively, isolated from seawaters of the Algiers coast.
Complete Genome Sequence of the First Camelpox Virus Case Diagnosed in Israel
Authors: Israeli Ofir , Cohen-Gihon Inbar , Zvi Anat , Shifman Ohad , Melamed Sharon , Paran Nir , Laskar-Levy Orly , Beth-Din Adi
Published: August 2019

We report here the whole-genome sequence of the first camelpox virus case diagnosed in Israel. The strain (Negev2016) was isolated in 2016 from a camel in southern Israel and was sequenced on the Illumina MiSeq and Oxford Nanopore MinION platforms.
Effectiveness and safety of steady versus intermittent high dose vitamin D supplementation for the prevention of falls and fractures among adults: a protocol for systematic review and network meta-analysis
Authors: Al-khalidi Banaz , Ewusie Joycelyne Efua , Hamid Jemila , Kimball Samantha
Published: August 2019

Introduction

Clinical trials and systematic reviews of trials involving vitamin D supplementation have mainly focused on defining the optimal amount of vitamin D dosage. However, the comparative effectiveness of different dosing schedules (ie, daily vs bolus dosing schedule) has been largely unexplored; and currently, there is no consensus regarding the optimal vitamin D dosing schedule. Our objective is to conduct a systematic review and network meta-analysis (NMA) to evaluate the comparative effectiveness and safety of steady (eg, daily, weekly) and intermittent high-dose (eg, monthly, yearly) vitamin D dosing schedules; and to determine the effectiveness of the various dosing schedules and combinations of treatments.

Methods and analysis

We will conduct a systematic search and review of literature from major medical databases (MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials and ClinicalTrials.gov) involving studies that compare vitamin D supplementation alone or in combination with calcium. Only randomised controlled trials (RCTs) will be considered. We will, however, consider various settings (eg, community, institutional care) and study designs (eg, cluster RCTs, cross-over trials). Our primary outcomes include falls and fractures including hip-fracture and non-vertebral fractures. Secondary outcomes will include muscle strength, physical performance, gait and mobility limitation. A Bayesian NMA will be conducted, and the results will be presented in the form of treatment effect estimates and ranking probabilities, with corresponding CIs. Pairwise meta-analysis will also be conducted for studies reporting head-to-head comparisons. Subgroup analysis will be performed with respect to pre-determined subgroups; including vitamin D status as measured by serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels, age and follow-up time. Sensitivity analysis will also be performed with respect to risk of bias.

Ethics and dissemination

This study is a systematic review and meta-analysis of published RCTs; therefore, no ethical approval is required. Results will be disseminated through open access peer-reviewed publications.

Systematic review registration

PROSPERO CRD42018112662.
Deprescribing benzodiazepines among hospitalised older adults: quality improvement initiative
Authors: Carr Frances , Tian Peter , Chow Jeffrey , Guzak Jennifer , Triscott Jean , Mathura Pamela , Sun Xing , Dobbs Bonnie
Published: August 2019

Benzodiazepines are recognised as being potentially inappropriate medications for seniors due to their considerable side-effect profile, yet they are commonly prescribed and infrequently discontinued (deprescribed). The study’s primary objective was the deprescription or the dose reduction of benzodiazepines among newly hospitalised seniors using a patient education intervention. A 3-month duration quality improvement study based on the plan–do–study–act model was conducted across two units (3C and 4D) in the Glenrose Rehabilitation Hospital to improve benzodiazepine deprescribing among newly admitted seniors (65 years or older) who were using benzodiazepines. The primary outcome measure was the number of eligible patients who had benzodiazepine deprescribing initiated. A patient education intervention comprising a structured medication review, written patient education (the Eliminating Medications Through Patient Ownership of End Results (EMPOWER) brochure) and at least one brief supportive counselling session by the clinical pharmacist or physician was applied to all eligible patients. All 12 eligible patients consented to benzodiazepine deprescribing; however, only 11 of them (92%) initiated benzodiazepine deprescribing. Six of the 11 patients (55%) had their benzodiazepines discontinued, with the 5 remaining patients (45%) achieving greater than 50% dosage reduction. Seven patients (64%) experienced side effects during the deprescribing process, with over half (57%, n=4) of these seven patients experiencing worsening anxiety symptoms. Five of the 11 patients (45%) required benzodiazepine substitute medications. The use of a structured patient education intervention involving the use of a structured medication review, written patient education material and one-on-one patient counselling can promote benzodiazepine deprescribing. Although worsening anxiety was frequently observed, this was easily managed by the substitution of a more appropriate and clinically indicated medication, which was well tolerated and acceptable by all of our participants. Targeted screening for the presence of anxiety would help to guide the deprescribing process and the need for medication substitution.
Improving long-lasting insecticidal nets use in Kayange community of north-western Burundi: a pilot study exploring the use of quality improvement methodologies in low-resource community settings
Authors: Habonimana Desire , Nimako Gideon , Ncayiyana Jabulani , Ndayisaba Gabriel , Ramaswamy Rohit
Published: August 2019

Quality improvement (QI) approaches have demonstrated a lot of promise in improving clinical care processes, both in high-resource and low-resource settings. However, most examples of QI initiatives in healthcare in low-income countries are clinic-based. The objective of this study was to demonstrate feasibility of applying QI methods in low-resource community settings by applying them to the problem of correct utilisation of long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs) in a rural community in Burundi. Correct utilisation of LLINs had been shown to be a cost-effective approach to malaria prevention. In Burundi, LLINs utilisation is low. The Model for Improvement, a well-known QI approach, was used to increase LLINs utilisation in a rural community in Burundi. In the baseline, LLINs ownership and weekly utilisation together with factors affecting LLINs non-use were documented for a period of 4 weeks before intervention. Improvement ideas were collaboratively developed by a quality improvement team (QIT) and tested using Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) cycles. The first PDSA cycle consisted of the demonstration of how to mount LLINs, the second was an implementation of reminders done by household ‘watchdogs’, the third cycle consisted of conducting two community reminders every week and the last cycle was a combination of the last two PDSA cycles. The intervention lasted 4 weeks and data were collected weekly. LLINs utilisation was calculated each week and plotted on a run chart to demonstrate improvement trends. LLINs utilisation data were collected for another 3 weeks postintervention. Of 96 households, 83 (87%) households owned at least one LLIN. After intervention, the number of LLINs used increased from 32% to 75% (134% increase) and the number of persons (general population) sleeping under LLINs from 35% to 73% (108% increase). The number of children under 5 years sleeping under LLINs increased from 31% to 76% (145% increase) and the number of pregnant women who slept under LLINs from 43% to 73% (69% increase). Also, the averages of the number of nights in each week that the general population slept under LLINs increased from 2.13 to 5.11 (140% increase), children under 5 years from 1.68 to 4.78 (184% increase) and pregnant women from 1.56 to 4.47 (186% increase). Each of the 4 PDSA cycles led to a significant increase in outcome indicators and the trends appear to persist even after the implementation was complete. While it is impossible to draw generalisable conclusions from a small pilot study, QI approaches appear to be feasible to implement in low-resource community setting and have promise in producing results. More research at larger scale should be encouraged to validate our initial findings.
C>A substitution in NT 46 of the 3’ UTR region (the α complex protected region) of the alpha-1 globin gene: a non-deletional mutation or polymorphism?
Authors: Ropero Paloma , González Fernando Ataúlfo , Nieto Jorge M , Villegas Ana , Sevilla Julian , Pérez Germán , Alonso José María , Recasens Valle , Abio Mariola , Vagace Jose Manuel , Vanegas Raul Jesus , González Fernández Beatriz , Martínez Rafael
Published: August 2019

Aims

Untranslated regions (UTRs) play an important role in post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression, including by modulating messenger RNA (mRNA) transport out of the nucleus, translation efficiency, subcellular localisation and stability. Any mutation in this region could alter the stability of mRNA and thereby affect protein synthesis. We analysed if a mutation located in the α complex protected region of the α1 globin gene could cause non-deletional α-thalassaemia by affecting post-transcriptional stability (mRNA stability).

Methods

A total of 14 patients without anaemia, normal or slight microcytosis and hypochromia (medium concentration haemoglobin [MCH] <27 pg) were studied. Haemoglobin subtypes were screened using capillary zone electrophoresis and ion-exchange high-performance liquid chromatography (VARIANT II β-Thalassaemia Short Program). The most common α-globin mutations were identified by multiplex PCR (Alpha-Globin StripAssay kit) and the molecular characterisation by automatic sequencing of alpha globin genes.

Results

All of them shown a novel transversion mutation in nt 778 (C>A), which is located in the 3' UTR in the α complex protected region [HBA1: c.*+46C>A].

Conclusions

This mutation is in the αRNAmin binding site, so a single nucleotide substitution in this region can decrease mRNA stability by potentially compromising the binding of α-complex protein to αRNAmin, favouring the decay of α-globin mRNA via erythroid cell-enriched endoribonuclease cleavage. In this case, it is a non-deletional α-thalassaemia. However, in silico and empirical studies predicted that it could be a silent polymorphism. Functional studies should be carried out to confirm whether it is a pathological mutation or a silent polymorphism.
The association of body mass index, weight gain and central obesity with activity-related breathlessness: the Swedish Cardiopulmonary Bioimage Study
Authors: Ekström Magnus Pär , Blomberg Anders , Bergström Göran , Brandberg John , Caidahl Kenneth , Engström Gunnar , Engvall Jan , Eriksson Maria , Gränsbo Klas , Hansen Tomas , Jernberg Tomas , Nilsson Lars , Nilsson Ulf , Olin Anna-Carin , Persson Lennart , Rosengren Annika , Sandelin Martin , Sköld Magnus , Sundström Johan , Swahn Eva , Söderberg Stefan , Tanash Hanan A , Torén Kjell , Östgren Carl Johan , Lindberg Eva
Published: August 2019

Introduction

Breathlessness is common in the population, especially in women and associated with adverse health outcomes. Obesity (body mass index (BMI) >30 kg/m2) is rapidly increasing globally and its impact on breathlessness is unclear.

Methods

This population-based study aimed primarily to evaluate the association of current BMI and self-reported change in BMI since age 20 with breathlessness (modified Research Council score ≥1) in the middle-aged population. Secondary aims were to evaluate factors that contribute to breathlessness in obesity, including the interaction with spirometric lung volume and sex.

Results

We included 13 437 individuals; mean age 57.5 years; 52.5% women; mean BMI 26.8 (SD 4.3); mean BMI increase since age 20 was 5.0 kg/m2; and 1283 (9.6%) reported breathlessness. Obesity was strongly associated with increased breathlessness, OR 3.54 (95% CI, 3.03 to 4.13) independent of age, sex, smoking, airflow obstruction, exercise level and the presence of comorbidities. The association between BMI and breathlessness was modified by lung volume; the increase in breathlessness prevalence with higher BMI was steeper for individuals with lower forced vital capacity (FVC). The higher breathlessness prevalence in obese women than men (27.4% vs 12.5%; p<0.001) was related to their lower FVC. Irrespective of current BMI and confounders, individuals who had increased in BMI since age 20 had more breathlessness.

Conclusion

Breathlessness is independently associated with obesity and with weight gain in adult life, and the association is stronger for individuals with lower lung volumes.
FDI AND CONVERGENCE ANALYSIS OF PRODUCTIVITY ACROSS CHINESE PREFECTURE-LEVEL CITIES THROUGH BOOTSTRAP TRUNCATION REGRESSION
Authors: LONG XINGLE , KIM SANGWOOK , DAI YUNHAI
Published: August 2019

This paper evaluated productivity through metafrontier slacks-based measure, and explored the time and regional heterogeneity of productivity from static and dynamic perspectives. We also conducted convergence analysis on productivity. Our empirical results show that the east has the highest Technological Gap Ratio (TGR), which reveals that the east has the lowest production technology heterogeneity in China. Production heterogeneity has increased since 2004. FDI had negative effects on productivity, especially in the middle, west and northeast regions, which indicates FDI had a “crowding out” effect in China. Productivity displayed a convergence trend from 2004 to 2012. It is important for China’s local firms to enhance indigenous innovation and increase knowledge spillover in order to decrease their production technology gap.
Dynamics of domain wall in charged AdS dilaton black hole space–time
Authors: Xu Wu-Long , Huang Yong-Chang
Published: August 2019

For the [Formula: see text]-dimensional FRW domain wall universe induced by [Formula: see text]-dimensional charged dilaton black hole, observers on the domain wall interpret its movement in the bulk as the expansion or collapsing of universe. By analyzing, we found that in this static AdS space, the cosmologic behavior of domain wall is particularly single. Even more surprising, there is an anomaly that the domain wall has a motion area outside the horizon, which cannot be explained by our classical theory.
The Research on Cloud Mask of Four-Band High Spatial Resolution Camera
Authors: Wang Yi , He Mingyuan , Ge Jingjing , Zhang Haiyang
Published: August 2019

According to the characteristics of the ZY-3 multispectral image, an advanced cloud mask algorithm combining the regularized least squares algorithm and the threshold method was presented. In this method, the second extraction of the cloud using regularized least squares algorithm was completed based on the first extraction of cloud using threshold method. The method overcomes the confusion of cloud, road and building and improves the accuracy. Some existing cloud mask methods — threshold method, [Formula: see text]-means clustering combined with the threshold method, support vector machine combined with the threshold method — are also conducted to process the experimental data. Comparing the advanced method with the existing methods, it has been found to be highly accurate and efficient. It is more promising in the application of ZY-3 high resolution multispectral image and is expected to be popularized and applied further in other domestic satellites.
THE FAIR REWARD PROBLEM: THE ILLUSION OF SUCCESS AND HOW TO SOLVE IT
Authors: SORNETTE DIDIER , WHEATLEY SPENCER , CAUWELS PETER
Published: August 2019

Humanity has been fascinated by the pursuit of fortune since time immemorial, and many successful outcomes benefit from strokes of luck. But success is subject to complexity, uncertainty, and change — and at times becoming increasingly unequally distributed. This leads to tension and confusion over to what extent people actually get what they deserve (i.e. fairness/meritocracy). Moreover, in many fields, humans are overconfident and pervasively confuse luck for skill (I win, it is skill; I lose, it is bad luck). In some fields, there is too much risk-taking; in others, not enough. Where success derives in large part from luck — and especially where bailouts skew the incentives (heads, I win; tails, you lose) — it follows that luck is rewarded too much. This incentivizes a culture of gambling, while downplaying the importance of productive effort. And, short-term success is often rewarded, irrespective, and potentially at the detriment, of the long-term system fitness. However, much success is truly meritocratic, and the problem is to discern and reward based on merit. We call this the fair reward problem. To address this, we propose three different measures to assess merit: (i) raw outcome; (ii) risk-adjusted outcome, and (iii) prospective. We emphasize the need, in many cases, for the deductive prospective approach, which considers the potential of a system to adapt and mutate in novel futures. This is formalized within an evolutionary system, comprised of five processes, inter alia handling the exploration–exploitation trade-off. Several human endeavors — including finance, politics, and science — are analyzed through these lenses, and concrete solutions are proposed to support a prosperous and meritocratic society.
Classical solutions to a dissipative hyperbolic geometry flow in two space variables
Authors: Kong De-Xing , Liu Qi , Song Chang-Ming
Published: August 2019

We investigate a dissipative hyperbolic geometry flow in two space variables for which a new nonlinear wave equation is derived. Based on an energy method, the global existence of solutions to the dissipative hyperbolic geometry flow is established. Furthermore, the scalar curvature of the metric remains uniformly bounded. Moreover, under suitable assumptions, we establish the global existence of classical solutions to the Cauchy problem, and we show that the solution and its derivative decay to zero as the time tends to infinity. In addition, the scalar curvature of the solution metric converges to the one of the flat metric at an algebraic rate.
Modeling and Simulation of Dynamic Applications Using Scenario-Aware Dataflow
Authors: Bonna Ricardo , Loubach Denis S. , Ungureanu George , Sander Ingo
Published: August 2019

The tradeoff between analyzability and expressiveness is a key factor when choosing a suitable dataflow model of computation (MoC) for designing, modeling, and simulating applications considering a formal base. A large number of techniques and analysis tools exist for static dataflow models, such as synchronous dataflow. However, they cannot express the dynamic behavior required for more dynamic applications in signal streaming or to model runtime reconfigurable systems. On the other hand, dynamic dataflow models like Kahn process networks sacrifice analyzability for expressiveness. Scenario-aware dataflow (SADF) is an excellent tradeoff providing sufficient expressiveness for dynamic systems, while still giving access to powerful analysis methods. In spite of an increasing interest in SADF methods, there is a lack of formally-defined functional models for describing and simulating SADF systems. This article overcomes the current situation by introducing a functional model for the SADF MoC, as well as a set of abstract operations for simulating it. We present the first modeling and simulation tool for SADF so far, implemented as an open source library in the functional framework ForSyDe. We demonstrate the capabilities of the functional model through a comprehensive tutorial-style example of a RISC processor described as an SADF application, and a traditional streaming application where we model an MPEG-4 simple profile decoder. We also present a couple of alternative approaches for functionally modeling SADF on different languages and paradigms. One of such approaches is used in a performance comparison with our functional model using the MPEG-4 simple profile decoder as a test case. As a result, our proposed model presented a good tradeoff between execution time and implementation succinctness. Finally, we discuss the potential of our formal model as a frontend for formal system design flows regarding dynamic applications.
Pancreas–Microbiota Cross Talk in Health and Disease
Authors: Adolph Timon E. , Mayr Lisa , Grabherr Felix , Schwärzler Julian , Tilg Herbert
Published: August 2019

The pancreas controls metabolism through endocrine and exocrine functions. Pancreatic diseases comprise a spectrum of mild to life-threatening conditions, including acute and chronic pancreatitis, diabetes, and pancreatic cancer, which affect endocrine and exocrine pancreatic function and impose a substantial disease burden on individuals. Increasing experimental evidence demonstrates that the intestinal microbiota has an important impact on pancreatic function and diseases. This influence may be conferred by bacterial metabolites, such as short-chain fatty acids, or the modulation of immune responses. In turn, pancreatic factors, such as the excretion of antimicrobials, might have a substantial impact on the composition and functional properties of the gut microbiota. Here, we summarize experimental and clinical approaches used to untie the intricate pancreas–microbiota cross talk. Future advances will allow clinicians to manipulate the intestinal microbiota and guide patient management in pancreatic diseases.
Evidence Collection and Evaluation for the Development of Dietary Guidelines and Public Policy on Nutrition
Authors: Zeraatkar Dena , Johnston Bradley C. , Guyatt Gordon
Published: August 2019

Dietary guidelines and recommendations, usually developed by government bodies or large authoritative organizations, have major downstream effects on public policy. A growing body of evidence supports the notion that there are serious deficiencies in the methods used to develop dietary guidelines. Such deficiencies include the failure to access or conduct comprehensive systematic reviews, a lack of systematic or rigorous evaluation of the quality of the evidence, a failure to acknowledge the limitations of the evidence base underlying recommendations, and insufficiently stringent management of conflicts of interest. These issues may be addressed by adhering to international standards for guideline development, including adopting systematic review methodology and using rigorous systems to evaluate the certainty of the evidence and to move from evidence to recommendations, of which the GRADE approach (Grading of Recommendations Assessment,Development and Evaluation) is the most rigorous and fully developed. Improving the methods by which dietary guidelines are produced has considerable potential to substantially improve public policy decision-making.