bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The rise of P2P ecosystem: a service logics amplifier for value co-creation
Authors: Simone Cristina , La Sala Antonio , Montella Marta Maria
Published: August 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine peer production (P2P) conceived as an ecosystem for value co-creation. First, this paper provides information on the specific P2P method for value co-creation, which is based on distributed technologies, cognitive slack and search for quality, to provide outputs that are open to continuous improvement. Second, aiming to fill the extant literature gap, this paper discusses the efficient dimension of P2P, providing a framework for the net benefit analysis of the economies and diseconomies that affect the value co-creation processes.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper identifies three main literature clusters that are focused on P2P, namely, economical, sociological and organizational clusters, and integrates them with the economics of organizational perspective to elicit information on the efficient dimension of P2P. This efficient dimension is expressed by a net benefit analysis of the economies and diseconomies that affect the P2P value co-creation processes.

Findings

The P2P ecosystem is characterized by the intensive interaction among cognitive slack and distributed technologies. This complex interaction presents interesting implications in terms of efficiency that, until now, have not been analyzed in the literature. Aiming to fill the extant literature gap, this paper provides a consistent analytical framework that simultaneously takes into account the economies of knowledge integration and potential diseconomies, that is, the costs of coordination and loss of control that arise from the adoption and diffusion of distributed technologies.

Originality/value

This paper provides an original explanation of P2P as an emergent ecosystem that serves as a service logics amplifier of value co-creation. In this regard, analysis of the key features of P2P not only sheds new light on P2P, but also allows for the reflection on the ecosystem’s framework, which promotes a virtuous interaction between the conceptual speculation and understanding of reality. Moreover, the proposed framework for the net benefit analysis of the P2P value co-creation model draws the attention of managers and decision makers as they consider the following issue: value co-creation jointly considers not only its benefits, but also its associated costs.
The viable system perspective of actors in eco-systems
Authors: Polese Francesco , Carrubbo Luca , Bruni Roberto , Maione Gennaro
Published: August 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to show the relevance of the interest in sharing the common purpose and in searching for a common survival of emerging eco-system (ES) as an entity that “is not” but emerges by the viable actors interaction.

Design/methodology/approach

This conceptual paper contributes to the research by defining the ES building on the contributions of SD logic and viable systems approach (VSA), with a particular focus on the VSA perspective.

Findings

An ES emerges as a viable “system of systems” by an observer’s interpretation of the simultaneous interactions between different viable actors/systems that are sharing a common purpose (the survival of the ES), exchanging resources following a viable value co-creation model. Each actor/system could represent a level of quality of belonging to the ES looking for the opportunity to be resonant with the ES.

Research limitations/implications

The ES features and the role of each actor inside could be deepened through different theoretical perspectives and the same VSA to the ES could be reached with empirical explorations.

Practical implications

Understanding the nature of the ES, the practitioners are able to explain better their position in relation to partners and competitors. It is possible to be a part of several emerging ESs looking for the will to contribute to the ES’ survival and to the sharing of the purpose of the interactive systems/actors. In a medium and long run, the measure of the resonance is useful to understand the quality in interaction.

Originality/value

The work provides a definition of the ES and the actors inside focusing on the perspective of VSA, by integrating the concept of viable value co-creation and solidarity-based logic; in particular, the concept of Centro Commerciale Naturale is used to show the emergence of the ES in a relational context generated by the interaction between city, service and retailers in a city center.
Informing crisis alerts using social media: Best practices and proof of concept
Authors: Brynielsson Joel , Granåsen Magdalena , Lindquist Sinna , Narganes Quijano Maribel , Nilsson Susanna , Trnka Jiri
Published: August 2017

Social media has become an integrated part of human communication, both as a means to establish and maintain social relationships, and as a means of sharing and co‐creating information. Social media comes with an array of possibilities for individuals as well as organizations, corporations, and authorities. Within the field of crisis communication, social media possibilities such as online sharing and social networking have had an impact on the way crisis information is disseminated and updated. This paper addresses the issues related to using social media for communicating crisis information and broadcasting alert messages to the general population, discusses the role of social media in future pan‐European crisis alerting, and presents a prototype system demonstrating the possibilities. An extensive systematic literature review was carried out to identify factors that affect the use of social media for alerting and warning. These factors were mirrored in experiences, collected through interviews, obtained by emergency management organizations in three European countries (Sweden, Czech Republic, and Spain). The factors finally form the basis for suggestions and recommendations regarding the design of technological tools for both communication and information collection to serve as an integral part of a future pan‐European crisis alerting system.
The effect of APOE, CETP, and PCSK9 polymorphisms on simvastatin response in Thai hypercholesterolemic patients
Authors: Wanmasae Smith , Sirintronsopon Wisant , Porntadavity Sureerut , Jeenduang Nutjaree
Published: August 2017

Aim

To investigate the effect of apolipoprotein E (APOE), cholesteryl ester transfer protein (CETP) and proprotein convertase subtilisin kexin type 9 (PCSK9) polymorphisms on the lipid‐lowering response to simvastatin therapy in Thai hypercholesterolemic patients.

Method

Two hundred and twenty‐five hypercholesterolemic patients in southern Thailand were enrolled and treated with simvastatin 20 or 40 mg per day for 3 months. Serum lipids were measured before and after the therapy. APOE, CETP TaqIB, and PCSK9 (R46L, I474V, and E670G) polymorphisms were analyzed using polymerase chain reaction‐restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR‐RFLP).

Results

After 3 months of simvastatin therapy, subjects with APOE2 (Total cholesterol [TC]: −30.89% vs−13.56%, P < .05, LDL‐C: −45.00% vs −17.73%, P < .05) and APOE3 carriers (TC: −26.22% vs −13.56%, P < .05, LDL‐C: −37.14% vs −17.73%, P < .05) had greater TC and LDL‐C reduction compared to APOE4 carriers, whereas CETP TaqIB B2B2 genotype showed lower TC (−16.37% vs −24.92%, P = .016) and LDL‐C (−22.54% vs −35.19%, P = .028) reduction compared to CETP TaqIB B1 carriers. In addition, PCSK9 474IV carriers showed greater LDL‐C (−50.57% vs −32.99%) reduction compared to PCSK9 474II carriers. Combined effect analyses showed that individuals carrying more risk alleles tended to have lower TC and LDL‐C (P for trend = .000 and .000, respectively) reduction in response to simvastatin therapy.

Conclusion

APOE4 carriers and the CETP TaqIB B2B2 genotype were associated with a decreased response, but PCSK9 474IV carriers tended to be associated with an increased response to simvastatin therapy in Thai hypercholesterolemic patients.
Rate Control With Beta‐blockers Versus Calcium Channel Blockers in the Emergency Setting: Predictors of Medication Class Choice and Associated Hospitalization
Authors: Atzema Clare L. , Austin Peter C.
Published: August 2017

Objectives

Rate control is an important component of the management of patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). Previous studies of emergency department (ED) rate control have been limited by relatively small sample sizes. We examined the use of beta‐blockers (BBs) versus nondihydropyridine calcium channel blockers (CCBs) in ED patients from 24 sites and the associated hospital admission rates.

Methods

In this preplanned substudy, we examined chart data on AF patients who visited one of 24 hospital EDs in Ontario, Canada, between April 2008 and March 2009. We describe the proportion of patients who received either a BB or a CCB, had a heart rate < 110 beats/min 2 hours later, and had any complications. We used hierarchical logistic regression modeling to determine the predictors of BB versus CCB use and to assess the between‐hospital variation in use of BBs versus CCBs. Solely in patients who had no rhythm control attempts, we examined the difference in the probability of hospital admission after propensity score matching patients by medication class.

Results

Of the 1,639 patients who received either a BB (n = 429) or a CCB (n = 1,210), 70.9% of the patients who received a BB had successful rate control versus 66.1% for a CCB. Complications were rare (2.4%), and the large majority were hypotension (2.0%). In adjusted analyses, predictors of receiving a BB (compared to a CCB) included already being on a BB, being sent in from a doctor's office, or being seen at a teaching hospital. In contrast, patients with evidence of heart failure, prior use of a CCB, a higher presenting heart rate, or a successful pharmacologic cardioversion (vs. no attempt) or who were seen at the highest AF volume EDs were significantly less likely to receive a BB, compared to a CCB. Systematic between‐hospital differences accounted for 8% of the variation in BB versus CCB use. Hospital characteristics accounted for the large majority of that variation: after accounting for patient characteristics the between‐hospital variation decreased by a relative 2.8%. By further adjusting for hospital characteristics, it decreased by a relative 74.7%. Among propensity score–matched patients with no rhythm control attempts, more CCB patients were admitted (51.6%) compared to BB patients (40.0%; difference of 11.6%; 95% confidence interval = 7.9%–16.2%).

Conclusions

In this study of 24 EDs, CCBs were used more frequently for rate control than BBs, and complications were rare and easily managed using both agents. Variation between hospitals in BB versus CCB use was predominantly due to hospital characteristics such as teaching status and AF volumes, rather than different case mix. Among patients who did not receive attempts at rhythm control, use of a BB for rate control was associated with a lower rate of hospitalization.
Accuracy of second trimester prediction of preterm preeclampsia by three different screening algorithms
Authors: Al‐Amin Ahmed , Rolnik Daniel Lorber , Black Carin , White Adrienne , Stolarek Caroline , Brennecke Shaun , da Silva Costa Fabricio
Published: August 2017

Aim

To compare the performance of three different screening methods (National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) guidelines, American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommendations and Fetal Medicine Foundation (FMF) algorithm) for second trimester prediction of preeclampsia.

Methods

This was a prospective non‐intervention study in singleton pregnancies, including women attending for second trimester morphologic ultrasound at 19–22 weeks. Maternal characteristics, medical history, mean arterial pressure and mean uterine artery Doppler pulsatility index were recorded and used for risk assessment. Outcomes measured were preeclampsia with delivery before 34, before 37 and after 37 weeks gestation. Detection rates, false positive rates and positive likelihood ratios were calculated, and receiver operating characteristic curves were produced.

Results

We screened 543 women during the study. The incidence of preeclampsia before 34, before 37 and after 37 weeks was 0.5, 1.4 and 3.4%, respectively. Detection rates for prediction of preterm preeclampsia were 75% (95% CI 34.9–96.8), 87% (95% CI 47.3–99.6), 100% (95% CI 63.0–100) and 100% (95% CI 63.0–100) for NICE guidelines, ACOG recommendations, FMF algorithm with a 1:100 cut‐off and FMF algorithm at 1:60 cut‐off, respectively. False positive rates were, 22, 67, 19 and 12% for NICE guidelines, ACOG recommendations, FMF algorithm with a 1:100 cut‐off and FMF algorithm at 1:60 cut‐off, respectively.

Conclusion

Second trimester combined screening for preterm preeclampsia by maternal history, mean arterial pressure and mean uterine artery Doppler pulsatility index (FMF algorithm) was superior to screening by maternal factors alone (NICE guidelines and ACOG recommendations).
Steering Clear of the Dead: Avoiding Ancestors in the Moquegua Valley, Peru
Authors: Sharratt Nicola
Published: August 2017

Ancestors are a central and recurring theme in scholarship on mortuary practices in the pre‐Hispanic Andes. Archaeological and ethnohistoric data indicate that in many times and places the dead were critical social actors. Physical interaction with the bodies and spaces of ancestors was important in legitimizing claims to heritage, land, resources, and status. Yet, relatively neglected in the literature on Andean attitudes to the dead is how people dealt with other people's ancestors. To address this, I examine how a Late Intermediate Period community, who circa AD 1250 occupied an earlier terminal Middle Horizon village in southern Peru, managed interactions with their predecessors’ dead. Excavations at the site reveal considerable evidence for active avoidance of cemeteries associated with the older village, which contrasts with the re‐utilization of earlier domestic space. Moreover, aversion to the ancestors of others was practiced alongside active engagement with the new community's “own” dead. Drawing on Lau's recent (2013) discussion of alterity in the ancient Andes, I propose that just as interacting with one's own ancestors is frequently interpreted as a way of reifying belonging, steering clear of the dead can be equally powerful in community building and identity negotiation during major sociopolitical upheaval. [alterity, funerary practice, Andean South America]
Mental training in surgical education: a systematic review
Authors: Davison Sara , Raison Nicholas , Khan Muhammad S. , Dasgupta Prokar , Ahmed Kamran
Published: August 2017

Background

Pressures on surgical education from restricted working hours and increasing scrutiny of outcomes have been compounded by the development of highly technical surgical procedures requiring additional specialist training. Mental training (MT), the act of performing motor tasks in the ‘mind's eye’, offers the potential for training outside the operating room. However, the technique is yet to be formally incorporated in surgical curricula. This study aims to review the available literature to determine the role of MT in surgical education.

Methods

EMBASE and Medline databases were searched. The primary outcome measure was surgical proficiency following training. Secondary analyses examined training duration, forms of MT and trainees level of experience. Study quality was assessed using Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials scores or Quality Assessment Tool for Before‐After (Pre‐Post) Studies with No Control Group.

Results

Fourteen trials with 618 participants met the inclusion criteria, of which 11 were randomized and three longitudinal. Ten studies found MT to be beneficial. Mental rehearsal was the most commonly used form of training. No significant correlation was found between the length of MT and outcomes. MT benefitted expert surgeons more than medical students or novice surgeons.

Conclusion

The majority studies demonstrate MT to be beneficial in surgical education especially amongst more experienced surgeons within a well‐structured MT programme. However, overall studies were low quality, lacked sufficient methodology and suffered from small sample sizes. For these reasons, further research is required to determine optimal role of MT as a supplementary educational tool within the surgical curriculum.
Outcomes of childbearing Medicaid beneficiaries engaged in care at Strong Start birth center sites between 2012 and 2014
Authors: Jolles Diana R. , Langford Rae , Stapleton Susan , Cesario Sandra , Koci Anne , Alliman Jill
Published: August 2017

Background

Variations in care for pregnant women have been reported to affect pregnancy outcomes.

Methods

This study examined data for all 3136 Medicaid beneficiaries enrolled at American Association of Birth Centers (AABC) Center for Medicare and Medicaid Innovation Strong Start sites who gave birth between 2012 and 2014. Using the AABC Perinatal Data Registry, descriptive statistics were used to evaluate socio‐behavioral and medical risks, and core perinatal quality outcomes. Next, the 2082 patients coded as low medical risk on admission in labor were analyzed for effective care and preference sensitive care variations. Finally, using binary logistic regression, the associations between selected care processes and cesarean delivery were explored.

Results

Medicaid beneficiaries enrolled at AABC sites had diverse socio‐behavioral and medical risk profiles and exceeded quality benchmarks for induction, episiotomy, cesarean, and breastfeeding. Among medically low‐risk women, the model demonstrated effective care variations including 82% attendance at prenatal education classes, 99% receiving midwifery‐led prenatal care, and 84% with midwifery‐ attended birth. Patient preferences were adhered to with 83% of women achieving birth at their preferred site of birth, and 95% of women using their preferred infant feeding method. Elective hospitalization in labor was associated with a 4‐times greater risk of cesarean birth among medically low‐risk childbearing Medicaid beneficiaries.

Conclusions

The birth center model demonstrates the capability to achieve the triple aims of improved population health, patient experience, and value.
A preliminary assessment of a new dedicated endodontic software for use with CBCT images to evaluate the canal complexity of mandibular molars
Authors: Gambarini G. , Ropini P. , Piasecki L. , Costantini R. , Carneiro E. , Testarelli L. , Dummer P. M. H.
Published: August 2017

Aim

To investigate in vivo the complexity of canals within mesial roots of mandibular molars using 3D Endo™ software linked to CBCT images.

Methodology

The CBCT images of 100 mandibular first molars were analysed using the 3D Endo™ software. The number of canals in the mesial roots, the presence of apical confluences, the canal lengths and the canal configurations using Vertucci's classification were evaluated in buccolingual (BL) and mesiodistal (MD) views. The software allowed the visualization of canal trajectories in three dimensions using a coloured outline, which was used to develop a new objective scoring system to provide an overall assessment of canal complexity. Data were analysed statistically using anova and t‐tests with the significance set at P < 0.05.

Results

Vertucci type IV canals were found in 44% of the cases, whilst 54% were type II. The mean distance from the apical foramen to the orifice was 13.15 mm (±1.21) and that between a confluence and the foramen, 2.81 mm (±1.13). The number of curvatures and the canal complexity scores in the MD view were significantly higher than in the BL view (P < 0.05). The scores were not directly correlated to the canal (MB versus ML), to the canal length or to the presence of confluences.

Conclusions

3D Endo software features the automatic detection and measurement of several anatomical canal parameters, and is a promising tool for the study of canal complexity in vivo. The unpredictable anatomy of the mesial roots of mandibular molars highlights the value of a three‐dimensional preoperative evaluation of each case. The proposed scoring system aims to provide the clinician with an overall assessment of canal complexity.
A new classification system for the restoration of root filled teeth
Authors: Zarow M. , Ramírez‐Sebastià A. , Paolone G. , de Ribot Porta J. , Mora J. , Espona J. , Durán‐Sindreu F. , Roig M.
Published: August 2017

The aim of this report is to (i) review the current literature on the status of root filled teeth, (ii) analyse the most important factors in decision‐making, (iii) discuss the current restorative concepts, and (iv) classify both the evidence and clinical practice in a way that seeks to be clear, understandable and helpful for clinicians. Restoration of root filled teeth represents a challenge for the clinician and remains a controversial subject. The guidelines describe a new classification that is drawn from evidence presented in the literature and also from clinical expertise‐based reviews. It describes five categories of teeth.
Simulating the life course of psoriasis patients: the interplay between therapy intervention and marital status
Authors: Linder M.D. , Frigessi A. , Piaserico S. , Keilman N.
Published: August 2017

Background

Psoriasis, a chronic relapsing inflammatory disease affecting primarily the skin, shows multiple comorbidities including depression, cardiovascular diseases and other relevant conditions. Psoriasis patients experience social isolation, job loss, financial difficulties and partnership problems. Inversely, psychosocial impairments may negatively influence the disease course.

Objective

To explore the feasibility of a model describing the interaction of psychosocial and clinical factors over the life course of patients.

Methods

We considered only seven states for members of a hypothetical population: single and healthy, single and having a psoriasis flare, single and ‘cured’, coupled and healthy, coupled and having a psoriasis flare, coupled and ‘cured’, and dead. Transition probabilities between states were taken from the Norwegian Population Register for the healthy population and from epidemiological research articles. Clinical experience allowed adjustments on the assumed parameters.

Results

Our macromodel, which simulates the effect of therapy intervention on patients’ partnership status, yields a description of the transitions between the seven states. Treatment efficacy shows only a negligible effect on the chances of living with a partner.

Conclusions

Mathematical modelling of interactions between social and health variables is in principle feasible. However, complex models, comprising more variables (for instance: employment status, depression level, obesity etc.), are needed for more realistic simulations for the interactions studied. As increasing the number of variables leads to an exponential increase of the model's state space, switching to micromodelling (representing each individual separately) may be necessary.
Longitudinal Relations of Economic Hardship and Effortful Control to Active Coping in Latino Youth
Authors: Taylor Zoe E. , Widaman Keith F. , Robins Richard W.
Published: August 2017

How Latino youth cope with stressors may have implications for their adjustment. We examined how a temperamental characteristic (effortful control) and a contextual factor (economic hardship) were associated with Latino youth's coping. Individual differences in effortful control, a core facet of self‐regulation, may contribute to coping as effortful control is consistently linked to adaptive behaviors during adolescence. We examined relations of effortful control and economic hardship to active coping in a sample of Mexican‐origin youth (N = 674) across three time points (fifth to ninth grades). Although economic hardship negatively predicted coping and effortful control, effortful control positively predicted coping (controlling for prior levels). Findings support a resilience perspective by suggesting that effortful control may contribute to coping and thus counteract the negative effects of economic hardship.
The short‐term impact of the catheter ablation on noninvasive autonomic nervous system parameters in patients with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation
Authors: Kuyumcu Mevlut Serdar , Ozeke Ozcan , Cay Serkan , Ozcan Fırat , Bayraktar Muhammed Fatih , Kara Meryem , Vicdan Murat , Acar Burak , Aydogdu Sinan , Topaloglu Serkan , Aras Dursun
Published: August 2017

Background

The autonomic nervous system (ANS) is a potentially potent modulator of the initiation and perpetuation of atrial fibrillation (AF), whereas the presence of AF can activate and alter the ANS. The catheter ablation of AF (AFCA) may cause the cardiac ANS dysfunction, whereas restoration of sinus rhythm or sympathovagal imbalance by AFCA can reverse this process. Our principal goal was to investigate the short‐term effect of AFCA on ANS functions evaluated by noninvasive chronotropic (CI), resting heart rate (RHR), and heart rate recovery (HRR) indices.

Method

A total of 45 patients were enrolled with symptomatic, drug refractory paroxysmal AF undergoing first cryoballoon (CB) pulmonary vein antrum isolation (PVAI) with one 28‐mm CB using single 3‐minute freeze techniques without bonus applications. All patients underwent symptom‐limited exercise treadmill testing to evaluate noninvasive parameters of ANS before PVAI. For those patients who remained in sinus rhythm, an additional exercise test was repeated after 1 and 3 months after discharge.

Results

The autonomic CI and RHR/HRR indices were impaired after PVAI and persisted post‐PVAI 3 months. However, these parameters were not different in patients with and without recurrence.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated that the successful AFCA might concurrently impair the ANS parameters. The autonomic imbalance between the sympathetic and parasympathetic activity after AFCA could either become antiarrhythmic and/or proarrhythmic based on which of the two components was going to prevail after successful AFCA. The impaired ANS balance after PVAI might also be another hypothetical mechanism for AF recurrence particularly in the absence of PV reconnection.
Technology and the dynamics of comparative advantage
Authors: Navas Antonio
Published: August 2017

This paper explores how trade affects innovation in a two‐country, two‐good, two‐factor Heckscher–Ohlin model with heterogeneous firms. Trade openness induces an increase in process innovation in both industries. The increase is stronger in the comparative advantage industry. Trade openness boosts prospective entrants' profits in that industry, which leads to further increases in product innovation. Trade liberalization generates a different relative impact on innovation across industries, depending on trade costs. When they are high (low), it increases process innovation relatively more in the comparative advantage (disadvantage) industry, leading to TFP divergence (convergence) across industries.
Research Funding and Performance of Academic Researchers in South Korea
Authors: Doh Soogwan , Jang Duckhee , Kang Gil‐Mo , Han Dong‐Seong
Published: August 2017

This study seeks to empirically examine the impact of research funding for academic researchers on their research performance in the areas of natural science, engineering, agriculture and fishery science, and medicine and pharmacology in South Korea. Specifically, this study analyzed the research performance of 32,064 academic researchers based on their patent applications, patent registrations, and research articles published in academic journals in the year 2010. Descriptive statistics and regression analysis showed that various forms of research funding have a significant effect on their research performance. The results of this study also showed that the attributes of academic researchers, such as gender, age, where their PhD was completed, and major, have an influence on their research performance.
Genetic analyses reveal cryptic diversity in the native North American fire ants (Hymenoptera: Formicidae: Solenopsis)
Authors: CHIALVO PABLO , GOTZEK DIETRICH A. , SHOEMAKER DEWAYNE , ROSS KENNETH G.
Published: August 2017

The native North American fire ants (Solenopsis Westwood) comprise a difficult group taxonomically that has undergone multiple revisions in the past century yet remains in a state of taxonomic uncertainty. In the present study, we utilised a set of 59 microsatellite markers analysed in 238 specimens to conduct the first robust genetic analysis of the four nominal species. Our approach used a variety of methods to test operational criteria commonly employed in species delimitation, including genotypic clustering, reproductive isolation/cohesion and monophyly. We conclude from our results that the recognised North American fire ant species represent evolutionarily independent entities and, moreover, we confirm the presumed sister status of the desert fire ants, S. aurea Wheeler and S. amblychila Wheeler. However, the presence of at least two genetically divergent populations within the nominal species boundaries, including a western form of S. xyloni and a distinct population of S. aurea endemic to the Salton Trough, suggests that the current taxonomy does not fully capture the species‐level diversity in this group. Our study provides the molecular foundation for future integrated studies of the taxonomy and evolution of this scientifically and economically important group of insects.
After neoliberalisation? Monetary indiscipline, crisis and the state
Authors: Green Jeremy , Lavery Scott
Published: August 2017

Across the advanced capitalist states, the post‐crisis conjuncture has been characterised by both marked continuity and profound change. While regressive distributional trends in place before the 2008 crisis have intensified, a number of highly unorthodox policy interventions have also emerged. In particular, a new regime of “loose” monetary policy has crystallised, exemplified by record low interest rates and sustained programmes of quantitative easing. Existing approaches within economic geography are, we contend, ill‐equipped to deal with these transformations. Engaging with the “variegated neoliberalisation approach” – associated with Jamie Peck and his collaborators – the article argues that existing conceptualisations of neoliberalisation understate the key significance that central state institutions play in securing advanced capitalist development. They therefore miss the key role that monetary indiscipline has played in sustaining capitalist development since 2008. This argument is substantiated empirically through a case study of state intervention in the UK housing market in the post‐crisis conjuncture. Focusing on the Help to Buy Scheme and the buy‐to‐let market, the article argues that the UK's loose monetary policy regime has produced novel patterns of spatial divergence across the UK regions while simultaneously consolidating the UK's dysfunctional financialised model of capitalism.
An empirical analysis of the Renminbi: Exchange rates and cross‐border trade settlement
Authors: Huo Weidong , Deng Fuhua , Chen Jiandong
Published: August 2017

We introduce a gravity model to the currency choice for cross‐border trade settlement and the Heckman selection model to estimate the impact of the exchange rate on the cross‐border trade settlement of the Renminbi (RMB). We analyse bilateral exchange rates using panel data of China and 182 RMB settlement countries, or areas, from 2009 to 2014. We find that, regardless the choice stage or scale stage of RMB cross‐border trade settlement, the appreciation of the RMB does not necessarily promote RMB cross‐border trade settlement. This result holds when we take geographic differences into account and split the settlement of cross‐border trade into merchandise and service trade. We further investigate the channels through which exchange rate influences the cross‐border trade settlement of RMB, and we find that the appreciation of RMB impedes enterprises from choosing RMB as their settlement currency by reducing the scale of export to RMB settlement areas, whereas it speeds up RMB cross‐border trade settlement by increasing the scale of China's import from RMB settlement areas. We find that China's economic strength supports the development of RMB cross‐border trade settlement. However, the geographical distance between China and the RMB settlement areas may inhibit cross‐border trade settlement in RMB.
Effect of Heat Treatment on Mechanical and Tribological Properties of Centrifugally Cast Functionally Graded Cu/Al2O3 Composite
Authors: Sam Manu , Radhika N.
Published: August 2017

A functionally graded Cu–10Sn–5Ni metal matrix composite (MMC) reinforced with 10 wt % of Al2O3 particles was fabricated using the centrifugal casting process with dimension Φout100 × Φin85 × 100 mm. The mechanical and wear resistance of the composite has been enhanced through heat treatment. Samples from of the inner zone (9–15 mm) were considered for heat treatment, as this zone has higher concentration of less dense hard reinforcement particles. The samples were solutionized (620 °C/60 min) and water quenched followed by aging at different temperatures (400, 450, and 550 °C) and time (1–3 h). Optimum parametric combination (450 °C, 3 h) with maximum hardness (269 HV) was considered for further analysis. Dry sliding wear experiments were conducted based on Taguchi's L27 array using parameters such as applied loads (10, 20, and 30 N), sliding distances (500, 1000, and 1500 m), and sliding velocities (1, 2, and 3 m/s). Results revealed that the wear rate increased with load and distance whereas it decreased initially and then increased with velocity. Optimum condition for maximum wear resistance was determined using signal-to-noise (S/N) ratio. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) predicted the major influential parameter as load, followed by velocity and distance. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) analysis of worn surfaces predicted the wear mechanism, observing more delamination due to increase in contact patch when applied load increased. Results infer 8% increase in hardness after heat treatment, making it suitable for load bearing applications.
Membrane Electrolyte Assembly Health Estimation Method for Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells
Authors: Headley Alexander J. , Gross Martha , Chen Dongmei
Published: August 2017

Membrane electrolyte assembly (MEA) aging is a major concern for deployed proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cell stacks. Studies have shown that working conditions, such as the operating temperature, humidity, and open circuit voltage (OCV), have a major effect on degradation rates and also vary significantly from cell to cell. Individual cell health estimations would be very beneficial to maintenance and control schemes. Ideally, estimations would occur in response to the applied load to avoid service interruptions. To this end, this paper presents the use of an extended Kalman filter (EKF) to estimate the effective membrane surface area (EMSA) of each cell using cell voltage measurements taken during operation. The EKF method has a low computational cost and can be applied in real time to estimate the EMSA of each cell in the stack. This yields quantifiable data regarding cell degradation. The EKF algorithm was applied to experimental data taken on a 23-cell stack. The load profiles for the experiments were based on the FTP-75 and highway fuel economy test (HWFET) standard drive cycle tests to test the ability of the algorithm to perform in realistic load scenarios. To confirm the results of the EKF method, low performing cells and an additional “healthy” cell were selected for scanning electron microscope (SEM) analysis. The images taken of the cells confirm that the EKF accurately identified problematic cells in the stack. The results of this study could be used to formulate online sate of health estimators for each cell in the stack that can operate during normal operation.
Inward Solidification Heat Transfer of Nano-Enhanced Phase Change Materials in a Spherical Capsule: An Experimental Study
Authors: Zhu Zi-Qin , Liu Min-Jie , Hu Nan , Huang Yuan-Kai , Fan Li-Wu , Yu Zi-Tao , Ge Jian
Published: August 2017

The classical problem of inward solidification heat transfer inside a spherical capsule, with an application to thermal energy storage (TES), was revisited in the presence of nano-enhanced phase change materials (NePCM). The model NePCM samples were prepared by dispersing graphite nanoplatelets (GNPs) into 1-tetradecanol (C14H30O) at loadings up to 3.0 wt %. The transient phase change, energy retrieval, and heat transfer rates during solidification of the various NePCM samples were measured quantitatively using a volume-shrinkage-based indirect method. The data reduction and analysis were carried out under single-component, homogeneous assumption of the NePCM samples without considering the microscale transport phenomena of GNPs. It was shown that the total solidification time becomes monotonously shorter with increasing the loading of GNPs, in accordance with the increased effective thermal conductivity. The maximum relative acceleration of solidification was found to be more than 50% for the most concentrated sample, which seems to be appreciable for practical applications. In addition to enhanced heat conduction, the possible effects due to the elimination of supercooling and viscosity growth were elucidated. The heat retrieval rate was also shown to be increased monotonously with raising the loading of GNPs, although the heat storage capacity is sacrificed. Despite the remarkable acceleration of the solidification time, the use of a high loading (e.g., 3.0 wt %) was demonstrated to be possibly uneconomical because of the marginal gain in heat retrieval rate. Finally, correlations for the transient variations of the melt fraction and surface-averaged Nusselt number were proposed.
On the underwater sound field from impact pile driving: Arrival structure, precursor arrivals, and energy streamlines
Authors: Dahl Peter H. , Dall'Osto David R.
Published: August 2017

Underwater noise from impact pile driving is studied through measurements using a vertical line array (VLA) placed at range 120 m from the pile source (water depth 7.5 m) over which bathymetry varied gradually increasing to depth 12.5 m at the VLA. The data were modeled assuming the pile impact produces a radial expansion that acts as sound source and propagates along the pile at supersonic speed. This leads to the conceptualization of the pile as a discrete, vertical line source for which frequency- and source-depth-dependent complex phasing is applied. Dominant features of the pressure time series versus measurement depth are reproduced in modeled counterparts that are linearly related. These observations include precursor arrivals for which arrival timing depends on hydrophone depth and influence of a sediment sound speed gradient on precursor amplitude. Spatial gradients of model results are taken to obtain estimates of acoustic particle velocity and vector intensity for which active intensity is studied in the time domain. Evaluation of energy streamlines based on time-integrated active intensity, and energy path lines based on instantaneous (or very-short-time integrated) active intensity reveal interesting structure in the acoustic field, including an inference as to the source depth of the precursor.
In Vitro
Activities of Luliconazole, Lanoconazole, and Efinaconazole Compared with Those of Five Antifungal Drugs against Melanized Fungi and Relatives
Authors: Shokoohi Gholam Reza , Badali Hamid , Mirhendi Hossein , Ansari Saham , Rezaei-Matehkolaei Ali , Ahmadi Bahram , Vaezi Afsane , Alshahni Mohamed Mahdi , Makimura Koichi
Published: August 2017

The
in vitro
activities of novel azoles compared to those of five antifungal drugs against clinical (
n
= 28) and environmental (
n
= 102) isolates of black mold and melanized yeast were determined. Luliconazole and lanoconazole had the lowest geometric mean MICs, followed by efinaconazole, against tested isolates compared to the other drugs. Therefore, it appears that these new imidazole and triazole drugs are promising candidates for the treatment of infections due to melanized fungi and their relatives.
Prevalence of age-related macular degeneration in rural southern China: the Yangxi Eye Study
Authors: Jin Guangming , Ding Xiaohu , Xiao Wei , Xu Xiao , Wang Lanhua , Han Xiaotong , Xiao Ou , Liu Ran , Wang Wei , Yan William , An Lei , Zhao Jialiang , He Mingguang
Published: August 2017

Purpose

To describe the prevalence of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) among older adults in rural southern mainland China.

Methods

Eligible persons aged 50 years or over were identified by geographically defined cluster sampling from Yangxi County, Guangdong Province, China. Participants underwent a standardised interview and comprehensive eye examinations from August to November in 2014. Digital retinal photographs were graded for AMD lesions using the Clinical Classification of Age-Related Macular Degeneration developed by the Beckman Initiative for Macular Research Classification Committee. Age-standardised prevalence of AMD and AMD lesions was calculated using the 2010 world population data and compared with those of other populations.

Results

Of 5825 subjects who participated (90.7% response rate), 4881 (83.8%) had fundus photographs gradable for AMD. Early, intermediate and late AMD were present in 2003 (41.0%), 879 (18.0%) and 42 (0.86%) participants. The age-standardised prevalence of early, intermediate and late AMD was 40.4% (95% CI 39.6% to 41.2%), 17.6% (95% CI 17.0% to 18.2%) and 0.79% (95% CI 0.65% to 0.95%), respectively. Total AMD was more prevalent in men than in women (62.8% vs 57.1%).

Conclusions

AMD is an important public health concern for rural southern China, and the prevalence of AMD was higher in men than in women.
Holistic needs assessment and care plans for women with gynaecological cancer: do they improve cancer-specific health-related quality of life? A randomised controlled trial using mixed methods
Authors: Sandsund Catherine , Towers Richard , Thomas Karen , Tigue Ruth , Lalji Amyn , Fernandes Andreia , Doyle Natalie , Jordan Jake , Gage Heather , Shaw Clare
Published: August 2017

Objectives

Holistic needs assessment (HNA) and care planning are proposed to address unmet needs of people treated for cancer. We tested whether HNA and care planning by an allied health professional improved cancer-specific quality of life for women following curative treatment for stage I–III gynaecological cancer.

Methods

Consecutive women were invited to participate in a randomised controlled study (HNA and care planning vs usual care) at a UK cancer centre. Data were collected by questionnaire at baseline, 3 and 6 months. The outcomes were 6-month change in European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) Quality of Life Questionnaire-C30 (version 3), global score (primary) and, in EORTC subscales, generic quality of life and self-efficacy (secondary). The study was blinded for data management and analysis. Differences in outcomes were compared between groups. Health service utilisation and quality-adjusted life years (QALY) (from Short Form-6) were gathered for a cost-effectiveness analysis. Thematic analysis was used to interpret data from an exit interview.

Results

150 women consented (75 per group); 10 undertook interviews. For 124 participants (61 intervention, 63 controls) with complete data, no statistically significant differences were seen between groups in the primary endpoint. The majority of those interviewed reported important personal gains they attributed to the intervention, which reflected trends to improvement seen in EORTC functional and symptom scales. Economic analysis suggests a 62% probability of cost-effectiveness at a £30 000/QALY threshold.

Conclusion

Care plan development with an allied health professional is cost-effective, acceptable and useful for some women treated for stage I–III gynaecological cancer. We recommend its introduction early in the pathway to support person-centred care.
A multidisciplinary rehabilitation programme for cancer cachexia improves quality of life
Authors: Parmar Monica P , Vanderbyl Brandy L , Kanbalian Mary , Windholz Tamara Y , Tran Anh-Thi , Jagoe R Thomas
Published: August 2017

Objectives

Patients with cancer cachexia have severely impaired quality of life (QoL). Multidisciplinary, multimodal treatment approaches have potential for stabilising weight and correcting other features of this syndrome, but the impact on QoL is unknown.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of QoL in patients with advanced cancer, referred for the management of cachexia by a specialised multidisciplinary clinic (The McGill Cancer Nutrition Rehabilitation Program clinic at the Jewish General Hospital (CNR-JGH)). QoL was assessed at visits 1–3 using a dedicated QoL tool for cachexia, and the change in QoL was calculated for each patient. The correlation between clinical features and QoL at baseline and subsequent change in QoL was analysed, to determine what factors predict improvements in QoL during the CNR-JGH intervention.

Results

374 patients assessed at visit 1 with mean weight loss of 10.2% over the preceding 6 months. Baseline QoL scores were severely impaired but clinically important improvements were observed over visits 1–3 to the CNR-JGH clinic. Improvements in QoL were not determined by baseline characteristics and were similar in all patient subgroups. However, those patients who gained weight and increased their 6 min walk test (6MWT) had the greatest improvements in QoL.

Conclusions

Improving management of all facets of the cancer cachexia syndrome, including poor QoL, remains a priority. The multimodal approach to management of cancer cachexia offered by the CNR-JGH results in clinically important improvements in QoL. All patients who are able to receive this type of intervention have similar potential to improve their QoL, but the greatest benefits are seen in those who gain weight and improve their 6MWT.
Mental health literacy in primary care: Canadian Research and Education for the Advancement of Child Health (CanREACH)
Authors: McCaffrey Eden S N , Chang Samuel , Farrelly Geraldine , Rahman Abdul , Cawthorpe David
Published: August 2017

The effectiveness of a continuing education programme in paediatric psychopharmacology designed for primary healthcare providers was objectively measured based on the assumption that training would lead to measurable changes in referral patterns and established clinical measures of referred patients. Using established, valid and reliable measures of clinical urgency embedded in to a regional healthcare system since 2002, the referrals to child and adolescent psychiatric services of physicians who participated in the training (n=99) were compared pretraining and post-training, and to non-participating/untrained referring physicians (n=7753) making referrals over the same time period. Referrals were analysed for evidence of change based on frequencies and measures of clinical urgency. Participants of the training programme also completed standardised baseline and outcome self-evaluations. Congruent with participants self-reported evaluative reports of improved knowledge and practice, analysis of referral frequency and the clinical urgency of referrals to paediatric psychiatric services over the study period indicated that trained physicians made more appropriate referrals (clinically more severe) and reduced referrals to emergency services. Quantitative clinical differences as completed by intake clinicians blind to referrals from the study group designations were observed within the trained physician group pretraining and post-training, and between the trained physician group and the unexposed physician group. The results illustrate a novel model for objectively measuring change among physicians based on training in paediatric mental health management.