bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Do urban tourism hotspots affect Berlin housing rents?
Authors: Schäfer Philipp , Hirsch Jens
Published: March 2017

Purpose

This study aims to analyze whether urban tourism affects Berlin housing rents. Urban tourism is of considerable economic importance for many urban destinations and has developed very strongly over the past few years. The prevailing view is that urban tourism triggers side-effects, which affect the urban housing markets through a lack of supply and increasing rents. Berlin represents Germany’s largest rental market and is particularly affected by growing urban tourism and increasing rents.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper considers whether urban tourism hotspots affect Berlin’s housing rents, using two hedonic regression approaches, namely, conventional ordinary least squares (OLS) and generalized additive models (GAM). The regression models incorporate housing characteristics as well as several distance-based measures. The research considers tourist attractions, restaurants, hotels and holiday flats as constituents of tourism hotspots and is based on a spatial analysis using geographic information systems (GIS).

Findings

The results can be regarded as a preliminary indication that rents are, indeed, affected by urban tourism. Rents seem to be positively correlated with the touristic attractiveness of a particular location, even if it is very difficult to accurately measure the real quantity of the respective effects of the urban tourism amenities, as the various models show. GAM outperforms the results of OLS and seems to be more appropriate for spatial analysis of rents across a city.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, the paper provides the first empirical analysis of the effects of urban tourism hotspots on the Berlin housing market.
Price linkages between Australian housing and stock markets
Authors: Lee Ming-Te , Lee Chyi Lin , Lee Ming-Long , Liao Chien-Ya
Published: March 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine the linkages between Australian house prices and stock prices under the Toda and Yamamoto test framework. Specifically, it investigated whether there is a capital switching effect between house prices and stock prices.

Design/methodology/approach

This study examined the linkages between house prices and stock prices under the Toda and Yamamoto test framework. To accommodate the impact of the global financial crisis (GFC), a sub-period analysis was undertaken. To assess the impact of investor structure, the tests were also performed for small cap stocks and large cap stocks individually.

Findings

The empirical results reveal a negative lead–lag relationship between house prices and stock prices in Australia, suggesting the existence of capital switching activities between housing and stocks. The impact of the GFC on the lead–lag relationship between house prices and stock prices is also documented. Before the crisis, a causality transmission was running from house prices to stock prices, whilst stock prices appeared to lead house prices after the crisis. The capital switching activities between housing and stocks are more evident for small cap stocks.

Originality/value

This study is the first to examine the linkages between house prices and stock prices under the Toda and Yamamoto test framework. This is the first study to explore the impacts of the GFC on the lead–lag relationship between the two asset prices under the capital switching framework. This study is also the first to provide empirical evidence regarding the existence of capital switching activities between housing and stocks. In addition, the impact of investor structure on the interrelationship between the two asset prices is examined for the first time under the capital switching framework.
The influence of urban design packages on home values
Authors: Bitter Christopher , Krause Andy
Published: March 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine the impact of neighborhood design templates on residential home values in King County, WA, USA. Previous research examines a number of individual design factors; this study combines these factors into typologies and tests for the impacts of the composite set of design features.

Design/methodology/approach

The study analyzes over 27,000 home sales with a hedonic price model to measure the impacts across three large, regional submarkets. Neighborhood design categories are developed using a cluster analysis on a set of individual neighborhood attributes.

Findings

The key finding from this research is that the impact of more traditional (“urban”) design packages on home values is highly contextual. For the older and denser neighborhoods in the study area, a more traditional design results in a significantly positive impact on home values. In the new and more suburban regions of the study area, this effect is not found.

Originality/value

Prior work focused on valuing design attributes individually. The study argues that neighborhood design is better conceived of as a “package”, as the value of a given design element may depend on other co-located attributes. This is the first study, to the authors’ knowledge, to treat physical neighborhood design variables as a composite whole and to attempt to value their impact on home values as such.
The precision of asset beta estimates
Authors: Lesseig Vance , Payne Janet D.
Published: March 2017

Purpose

The capital asset pricing model has fundamentally changed the way finance is taught and practiced since its development in 1964. However, one problem with the use of the model is estimating the systematic risk of untraded assets. Academics and practitioners have dealt with the problem by using traded assets as “proxies” for the untraded asset. Some academic research has attempted to measure the validity of this technique using the average difference in the true beta of a traded firm and the “proxy” beta using a sample of similar firms. The paper aims to discuss these issues.

Design/methodology/approach

However, the use of the average difference across a number of comparisons is not necessarily useful to a practitioner. This paper examines the absolute difference between a firm’s unlevered beta and a proxy beta calculated using the formula given in Hamada, 1972, and the pure play method.

Findings

The authors find that the estimates are not reliably close to the true value. Using both deciles of relevant variables and a matching method similar to that used by practitioners, the authors examine a variety of different characteristics to identify similar firms.

Originality/value

However, the authors do not find any matching criteria that improves the absolute error of the estimate to a level, the authors believe would be acceptable to practitioners attempting to measure cost of equity capital for their untraded firm or asset. The authors conclude that managers should use pure play estimates of asset beta with caution. More research should be done in order to identify a better way for managers of untraded firms or assets to proxy their systematic risk.
Evaluating alternative performance benchmarks for Indian mutual fund industry
Authors: Sehgal Sanjay , Babbar Sonal
Published: March 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to perform a relative assessment of performance benchmarks based on alternative asset pricing models to evaluate performance of mutual funds and suggest the best approach in Indian context.

Design/methodology/approach

Sample of 237 open-ended Indian equity (growth) schemes from April 2003 to March 2013 is used. Both unconditional and conditional versions of eight performance models are employed, namely, Jensen (1968) measure, three-moment asset pricing model, four-moment asset pricing model, Fama and French (1993) three-factor model, Carhart (1997) four-factor model, Elton et al. (1999) five-index model, Fama and French (2015) five-factor model and firm quality five-factor model.

Findings

Conditional version of Carhart (1997) model is found to be the most appropriate performance benchmark in the Indian context. Success of conditional models over unconditional models highlights that fund managers dynamically manage their portfolios.

Practical implications

A significant α generated over and above the return estimated using Carhart’s (1997) model reflects true stock-picking skills of fund managers and it is, therefore, worth paying an active management fee. Stock exchanges and credit rating agencies in India should construct indices incorporating size, value and momentum factors to be used for purpose of benchmarking.

Originality/value

The study adds new evidence as to applicability of established asset pricing models as performance benchmarks in emerging market India. It examines role of higher order moments in explaining mutual fund returns which is an under researched area.
Policy boomerang in technical education: a system dynamics perspective
Authors: Upadhayay Lalit , Vrat Prem
Published: March 2017

Purpose

The Indian technical education has experienced an exponential growth since 1995. However, the technical education system was not able to sustain it and the enrollments, particularly in engineering, fell down considerably. The purpose of this paper is to analyze the growth of Indian technical education from system dynamics (SD) perspective.

Design/methodology/approach

Technical education is a complex system in which the outcome of a decision comes with a third order delay. SD is an appropriate tool to analyze the causal structure and behavior of complex systems. This study developed an analogy from the physics of a boomerang to do the comparative assessment of “sudden overshoot and collapse” phase in the growth of Indian technical education. Further, it compared the technical education growth with the Gartner hype cycle. The growth model of Indian technical education was developed using SD software STELLA (version 10.0).

Findings

The model was simulated for five different policy scenarios. The outcome of the SD analysis shows that the “goal-seeking behaviour,” which produces stable growth without hampering quality, is the best proposition amongst all scenarios considered in the study. It identifies policies which will enable long-term stability in the Indian technical education system as well as policies which will lead to perpetual instability in the system.

Research limitations/implications

The study conducted will encourage researchers to use SD in analyzing complex systems for sustainability and in the selection of appropriate policies.

Originality/value

The paper uses boomerang analogy for analyzing the growth in engineering enrollments and highlights the presence of “the boomerang effect,” a term coined by the authors for sudden overshoot and collapse behavior, in the causal structure which is injurious to the education system.
Nature-based therapy as a treatment for veterans with PTSD: what do we know?
Authors: Varning Poulsen Dorthe
Published: March 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide a comprehensive argument for nature-based therapy (NBT) for veterans with post-traumatic stress syndrome. It is the aim to generate an overview of the evidence for NBT to the target group. A review of available scientific literature within the field, has been comprehensively conducted. This work is the foundation for the recommendations to decision makers and politicians.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper provides a conceptual analyses and a general review of the literature. Following steps have been conducted. Based on the research question, relevant work (scientific papers) have been identified using search terms in English within the three areas the target group (veterans), the diagnosis (post-traumatic stress disorder, PTSD) and treatment (NBT). Study-quality and evidence level have been assessed and discussed.

Findings

The findings show a wide variation according to the interventions the nature setting, the length and frequency of the NBT session as well as the health outcome measures. The studies demonstrated a positive impact on the PTSD symptoms, quality of life and hope. None of the studies found negative impact of the interventions. Being in a group of other veterans facing the same problems was highlighted as well. Some studies measured the ability to return to workforce for the veterans and found NBT beneficial in that process.

Research limitations/implications

The limitation of the research due to the methods of identifying studies. The purpose of this was to give an overview of existing literature, and there can be studies, that are not found in this process. Including qualitative and quantitative methods are useful in a process of understanding the impact of NBT for veterans with PTSD. The quantitative studies, which unfortunately are few, can give information of the extent to which the treatment affects the symptoms of PTSD. Seen in the perspective of the burden for the veterans suffering from PTSD and the economic burden for society, the process of synthesizing the research in the field in order to generate a fundament seems necessary.

Practical implications

This policy papers are useful in order to make recommendations for politicians and decision makers as well as practitioners.

Social implications

The burden of suffering from PTSD is heavy for the veterans and their family. The society must drive forward the development of new and better evidence-based treatment programs for veterans with PTSD. NBT might be a step in the right direction of this.

Originality/value

It is well-known that there are an increase in the number of veterans diagnosed with PTSD. Generally the drop-out rate of the veterans is high in conventional treatment and it is found that veterans experience some side effects from medical treatment. NBT is, in existing research, found to have a positive impact on the veterans, and therefore, it should be part of future treatment programs for veterans with PTSD.
Usability testing of the Letters of 1916 Digital Edition
Authors: Wusteman Judith
Published: March 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe the process and implications of usability testing a prototype version of the Letters of 1916 Digital Edition.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper presents the testing, the lessons learned and how those lessons informed the subsequent redesign of the site.

Findings

Results imply that a majority of users, even digital humanists, were not looking for a unique and specialised interface, but assumed – and preferred – a user experience that reflects common search systems. Although the audience for digital humanities sites is becoming increasingly diverse, the needs of the different user groups may be more similar than had previously been assumed.

Research limitations/implications

The usability test employed 11 participants, five of whom were coded as “general public”. Four of these five had previously volunteered to transcribe and upload letters. This meant that they were already familiar with the project and with the Letters of 1916 Transcription Desk. However, their prior involvement was a result of their genuine interest in the site, thus ensuring that their interactions during testing were more realistic.

Practical implications

The lesson learned may be useful for the Digital Editions of future crowdsourced humanities projects.

Originality/value

Letters of 1916 is the first crowdsourced humanities project in Ireland. The theme of the project is topical, emotive and socially important in Ireland and among Irish diaspora today. The project’s content has been created by the “ordinary citizens of Ireland” and they are likely to be the major users of the Digital Edition. The study explores how the Digital Edition can support these users, while also facilitating the range of traditional scholars and digital humanities researchers.
RAMP – the Repository Analytics and Metrics Portal
Authors: OBrien Patrick , Arlitsch Kenning , Mixter Jeff , Wheeler Jonathan , Sterman Leila Belle
Published: March 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present data that begin to detail the deficiencies of log file analytics reporting methods that are commonly built into institutional repository (IR) platforms. The authors propose a new method for collecting and reporting IR item download metrics. This paper introduces a web service prototype that captures activity that current analytics methods are likely to either miss or over-report.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were extracted from DSpace Solr logs of an IR and were cross-referenced with Google Analytics and Google Search Console data to directly compare Citable Content Downloads recorded by each method.

Findings

This study provides evidence that log file analytics data appear to grossly over-report due to traffic from robots that are difficult to identify and screen. The study also introduces a proof-of-concept prototype that makes the research method easily accessible to IR managers who seek accurate counts of Citable Content Downloads.

Research limitations/implications

The method described in this paper does not account for direct access to Citable Content Downloads that originate outside Google Search properties.

Originality/value

This paper proposes that IR managers adopt a new reporting framework that classifies IR page views and download activity into three categories that communicate metrics about user activity related to the research process. It also proposes that IR managers rely on a hybrid of existing Google Services to improve reporting of Citable Content Downloads and offers a prototype web service where IR managers can test results for their repositories.
27 pawns ready for action
Authors: Mochón Gonzalo , Méndez Eva M. , Bueno de la Fuente Gema
Published: March 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to propose a methodology for assessing thesauri and other controlled vocabularies management tools that can represent content using the Simple Knowledge Organization System (SKOS) data model, and their use in a Linked Open Data (LOD) paradigm. It effectively analyses selected set of tools in order to prove the validity of the method.

Design/methodology/approach

A set of 27 criteria grouped in five evaluation indicators is proposed and applied to ten vocabulary management applications which are compliant with the SKOS data model. Previous studies of controlled vocabulary management software are gathered and analyzed, to compare the evaluation parameters used and the results obtained for each tool.

Findings

The results indicate that the tool that obtains the highest score in every indicator is Poolparty. The second and third tools are, respectively, TemaTres and Intelligent Theme Manager, but scoring lower in most of the evaluation items. The use of a broad set of criteria to evaluate vocabularies management tools gives satisfactory results. The set of five indicators and 27 criteria proposed here represents a useful evaluation system in the selection of current and future tools to manage vocabularies.

Research limitations/implications

The paper only assesses the ten most important/well know software tools applied for thesaurus and vocabulary management until October 2016. However, the evaluation criteria could be applied to new software that could appear in the future to create/manage SKOS vocabularies in compliance with LOD standards.

Originality/value

The originality of this paper relies on the proposed indicators and criteria to evaluate vocabulary management tools. Those criteria and indicators can be valuable also for future software that might appear. The indicators are also applied to the most exhaustive and qualified list of this kind of tools. The paper will help designers, information architects, metadata librarians, and other staff involved in the design of digital information systems, to choose the right tool to manage their vocabularies in a LOD/vocabulary scenario.
Digital curation in museums
Authors: Ray Joyce
Published: March 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present a perspective on the development of digital curation education and practice in museums in the USA.

Design/methodology/approach

Methods used include: a historical overview of the development of digital curation, originally as a field of practice – primarily in the sciences – and then as a field of study; a case study of the adaptation of a digital curation curriculum (DigCCurr) framework developed in schools of library and information science (LIS) to a museum studies program; and a discussion of trends in digital curation practices in museums.

Findings

The case study (the digital curation certificate program of Johns Hopkins University’s museum studies program) describes a successful adaptation of the LIS DigCCurr framework in a museum studies program.

Practical implications

Findings could help to advance the museum field through the integration of digital curation education, practice and research.

Social implications

By adopting and supporting digital curation practices, education and research, museums can reach and engage more online users seeking information about museum collections. More online users may also become onsite visitors.

Originality/value

There is little existing literature on digital curation education in museum studies programs.
Structural, mechanical and elastic properties of Ni0.7−xCoxZn0.3Fe2O4 nano-ferrite thick films
Authors: Rendale Maruti K. , Mathad S.N. , Puri Vijaya
Published: March 2017

Purpose

The present communication aims to investigate the influence of cobalt substitution on the structural, mechanical and elastic properties of nickel–zinc ferrite thick films. The changes observed in the crystallite size (D), lattice constant (a), texture coefficient [TC(hkl)] and mechanical and elastic properties of the thick films due to cobalt substitution have been reported systematically.

Design/methodology/approach

Ni–Zn ferrites with the stoichiometric formula Ni0.7−xCoxZn0.3Fe2O4 (where, x = 0, 0.04, 0.08, 0.12, 0.16 and 0.20) were synthesized via solution combustion technique using sucrose as the fuel and poly-vinyl-alcohol as the matrix material. The thick films of the ferrites were fabricated on alumina substrates by the screen printing method. The thickness of the films was 25 μm, as measured by the gravimetric method. The thick films were subjected to X-ray diffraction and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy.

Findings

The detailed study of variation of lattice parameter (a), sintering density, micro-strain and elastic properties with cobalt (Co+2) substituted was carried out. The remarkable increase in lattice parameter (from 8.369 A° to 8.3825 A°), bulk density and average grain size (69-119 nm) with the cobalt content was due to larger ionic radius of Co2+ compared to Ni2+. Texture analysis [TC(hkl)] reveals all thick films have adequate grain growth in the (311) plane direction. The main absorption bands of spinel ferrite have appeared through infrared absorption spectra recorded in the range of 300-700 cm−1.

Originality/value

The variation in stiffness constants (for isotropic material, C11 = C12), longitudinal elastic wave (Vl), transverse elastic wave (Vt), mean elastic velocity (VMean), rigidity modulus (G), Poisson’s ratio(s) and Young’s modulus (E) with cobalt (Co+2) composition has been interpreted in terms of binding forces found.
Growth kinetic and composition of the interfacial layer for RF sputtering Al2O3layer on germanium
Authors: Sahari Siti Kudnie , Kashif Muhammad , Mohamed Sutan Norsuzailina , Embong Zaidi , Nik Zaini Fathi Nik Amni Fathi , Hamzah Azrul Azlan , Sapawi Rohana , Yeop Majlis Burhanuddin , Ahmad Ibrahim
Published: March 2017

Purpose

The quality of GeOx–Ge interface and the equivalent oxide thickness (EOT) are the main issues in fabricating high-k/Ge gate stack due to the low-k of GeOx interfacial layer (IL). Therefore, a precise study of the formation of GeOx IL and its contribution to EOT is of utmost importance. In this study, the GeOx ILs were formed through post-oxidation annealing of sputtered Al2O3on the Ge substrate. The purpose of this paper is to report on growth kinetics and composition of IL between Al2O3and Ge for HCl- and HF-last Ge surface.

Design/methodology/approach

After wet chemical cleaning with HCl or HF, Al2O3was grown onto the Ge surface by RF sputtering. Thickness and composition of IL formed after post-anneal deposition at 400°C in dry oxygen ambience were evaluated as a function of deposition time by FESEM and characterized by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, respectively.

Findings

It was observed that the composition and thickness of IL were dependent on the starting surface and an aluminum germinate-like composition was formed during RF sputtering for both HF- and HCl-last starting surface.

Originality/value

The novelty of this work is to investigate the starting surface of Ge to IL growth between Al2O3/Ge that will lead to the improvement in Ge metal insulator field effect transistors (MISFETs) application.
Programmatic generation of computationally efficient lattice structures for additive manufacture
Authors: McMillan Matthew Leslie , Jurg Marten , Leary Martin , Brandt Milan
Published: March 2017

Purpose

Additive manufacturing (AM) enables the fabrication of complex geometries beyond the capability of traditional manufacturing methods. Complex lattice structures have enabled engineering innovation; however, the use of traditional computer-aided design (CAD) methods for the generation of lattice structures is inefficient, time-consuming and can present challenges to process integration. In an effort to improve the implementation of lattice structures into engineering applications, this paper aims to develop a programmatic lattice generator (PLG).

Design/methodology/approach

The PLG method is computationally efficient; has direct control over the quality of the stereolithographic (STL) file produced; enables the generation of more complex lattice than traditional methods; is fully programmatic, allowing batch generation and interfacing with process integration and design optimization tools; capable of generating a lattice STL file from a generic input file of node and connectivity data; and can export a beam model for numerical analysis.

Findings

This method has been successfully implemented in the generation of uniform, radial and space filling lattices. Case studies were developed which showed a reduction in processing time greater than 60 per cent for a 3,375 cell lattice over traditional CAD software.

Originality/value

The PLG method is a novel design for additive manufacture (DFAM) tool with unique advantages, including full control over the number of facets that represent a lattice strut, allowing optimization of STL data to minimize file size, while maintaining suitable resolution for the implemented AM process; programmatic DFAM capability that overcomes the learning curve of traditional CAD when producing complex lattice structures, therefore is independent of designer proficiency and compatible with process integration; and the capability to output both STL files and associated data for numerical analysis, a unique DFAM capability not previously reported.
Direct 3D printing of low melting point alloy via adhesion mechanism
Authors: Yu Yongze , Liu Fujun , Liu Jing
Published: March 2017

Purpose

This paper aims to propose a method that can directly print low-melting-point alloy In61Bi26Sn9Ga4 into a variety of macroscopic 3D structures at room temperature via adhesion mechanism.

Design/methodology/approach

In the first section, the principle of the direct printing system is described. As process parameters and material properties have both geometric and physical significance to printing, the approach the authors take is to study the relationships between key parameters and ultimate printed dimension. The surface tension of the fusible alloy is measured under different temperature ranges.

Findings

The interaction between the initial standoff distance and the geometry of the first layer is critically important for the adhesion of the liquid metal to the substrate and metal deposition. The characterization of the layer stacking in the direct printing process, stability ranges of the layer thickness and printing speed are also demonstrated. The direct printing system is suitable for making 3D structures with low-melting-point alloy under the summarized range of printing conditions.

Social implications

This study may arouse big public attention among society.

Originality/value

This study shows possibilities of manufacturing macroscopic 3D metal objects by continuously depositing molten alloy with low viscosity and high surface tension around room temperature. This study provides a supplement to realize compound printing with metal and nonmetal materials together for building terminal functional devices in a low cost and efficient way.
The cardiac L‐type calcium channel alpha subunit is a target for direct redox modification during oxidative stress—the role of cysteine residues in the alpha interacting domain
Authors: Muralidharan Padmapriya , Cserne Szappanos Henrietta , Ingley Evan , Hool Livia C
Published: March 2017

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in the Western world. The incidence of cardiovascular disease is predicted to further rise with the increase in obesity and diabetes and with the aging population. Even though the survival rate from ischaemic heart disease has improved over the past 30 years, many patients progress to a chronic pathological condition, known as cardiac hypertrophy that is associated with an increase in morbidity and mortality. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) and calcium play an essential role in mediating cardiac hypertrophy. The L‐type calcium channel is the main route for calcium influx into cardiac myocytes. There is now good evidence for a direct role for the L‐type calcium channel in the development of cardiac hypertrophy. Cysteines on the channel are targets for redox modification and glutathionylation of the channel can modulate the function of the channel protein leading to the onset of pathology. The cysteine responsible for modification of L‐type calcium channel function has now been identified. Detailed understanding of the role of cysteines as possible targets during oxidative stress may assist in designing therapy to prevent the development of hypertrophy and heart failure.
Ideological twinning: socialist aesthetics and political meetings in Maputo, Mozambique
Authors: Nielsen Morten
Published: March 2017

Based on recent ethnographical data from Maputo, Mozambique, this essay examines the revolutionary aesthetics of political meetings in a sociopolitical environment marked by the collapse of a national socialist ideology. Local political meetings in Mozambique articulate a paradoxical tension betweensacrificeandrevolution. While socialist rule disintegrated in the mid‐1980s, most local political meetings allow for the actualization of the revolutionary socialism which the governing Frelimo party was forced to sacrifice in order to remain in power. In the essay, it is thus examined how the enactment of a revolutionary aesthetics successfully exposes what Frelimo was incapable of realizing and thus momentarily captures the party's ideological legitimacy. Taking my inspiration from Roy Wagner's recent work on holography and invention, I explore the relationship betweensacrificeandrevolutionas an articulation of a symmetrical ‘twinning’ of seemingly contrastive political principles that are held together by a singular political aesthetics that is actualized only at political meetings.
The ‘fiver’: Germanic ‘finger’, Balto‐Slavic de‐numeral adjectives in *‐ero‐ and their Indo‐European background
Authors: Majer Marek
Published: March 2017

Proto‐Germanic *fingraz ‘finger’ – long connected to PIE *penkʷe ‘5’, but without a convincing derivational scenario – can be interpreted as *pēnkʷ‐ró‐, a genitival R(V̄)‐ó‐ vr̥ddhi derivative to *penkʷerom ‘set of 5’. This latter form is the substantivization of *penkʷero‐ ‘5‐fold, counting 5’ – a form belonging to a series of de‐numeral adjectives which, it is argued, is the single type underlying the Baltic pluralia tantum numerals (Lith. penkerì ‘5.pl.tant’) and the Slavic collectives and distributives (PSl. *pętero ‘group of 5’, *pęterъ ‘5‐fold’). It is further hypothesized that (Post‐)PIE forms like *penkwero‐, *sweḱsero‐, *septm̥mero‐ need not rest upon false segmentation of a thematic derivative of ‘4’ (*kwetwer‐o‐), as is most commonly assumed; rather, they can be explained as simple thematic derivatives of an *‐er locative of the type *penkʷer ‘in/on/at 5’ = ‘in a group of 5’ (a close parallel of this semantic relationship is provided by Lith. arch. trisù ‘3.loc’ = ‘in a group of 3’, or even by French à trois). The posited type *penkʷer also yields a back‐formed substantive *penkʷōr ‘set of 5‐s’, a possible source of the Tocharian B distributive numerals in ‐ār (piśār ‘by 5‐s’ << *penkʷōr‐en, *penkʷōr‐i or similar), which – being athematic – cannot be explained via the standard theory starting from *kʷetwer‐o‐.
Energy Drink Induced Lipid Peroxidation and Oxidative Damage in Rat Liver and Brain When Used Alone or Combined with Alcohol
Authors: Reis Rengin , Charehsaz Mohammad , Sipahi Hande , Ekici Asiye Işın Doğan , Macit Çağlar , Akkaya Hatice , Aydın Ahmet
Published: March 2017

Energy drinks (ED) are containing large doses of metabolic stimulants and its use with ethanol has increased dramatically among young adults. In this study, we examined the effects of ED exposure either alone or in combination with ethanol on oxidative stress parameters including superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GSH‐Px), and lipid peroxidation parameter malondialdehyde (MDA) in rat. Some histopathological findings were also evaluated. ED exposure led to a dose‐dependent increase in liver MDA compared to the control indicating oxidative damage. Histopathological findings also revealed that ED alone may generate liver damage. Ethanol exposure increased MDA level and SOD, CAT, and GSH‐Px activity in both the brain and the liver. The combination of ethanol and ED produced greater damage which is considered by further increases in SOD and GSH‐Px activity in the brain. Similar results for MDA were observed in both the liver and brain as well. Our findings suggest that ED consumption alone or combination with ethanol may represent a significant public health concern.
Serum adipocyte fatty acid‐binding protein levels are associated with peripheral arterial disease in women, but not men, with type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Ding Min , Shi Jian‐Ying , XING Yun‐Zhi , Sun Bei , Fang Qian‐Hua , Zhang Jing‐Yun , Zhang Qiu‐Mei , Chen Li‐Ming , Yu De‐min , Li Chun‐Jun
Published: March 2017

Background

Adipocyte fatty acid‐binding protein (A‐FABP) has been recognized as an important player in macrophage cholesterol trafficking and inflammation, and may promote the development of atherosclerosis. To further elucidate the role of A‐FABP in atherosclerosis in diabetes, we investigated the relationship between serum A‐FABP concentrations and peripheral arterial disease (PAD) in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

Methods

In all, 488 inpatients with T2DM were enrolled in the study (254 men, 234 women; mean (±SD) age 57.3 ± 13.0 years). The severity of peripheral arterial stenosis was assessed by ultrasound examination. Serum A‐FABP concentrations were determined by ELISA.

Results

Serum A‐FABP concentrations were significantly higher in patients with than without PAD (8.0 ± 3.3 vs 6.2 ± 1.6 ng/mL, respectively; P < 0.05). Interestingly, there was an obvious gender‐related difference in PAD patients with T2DM, with the stenosis rate being higher for female than male T2DM patients in the third A‐FABP tertile. Logistic regression analysis revealed that serum A‐FABP concentrations were an independent risk factor for PAD in female T2DM patients (odds ratio 1.890, 95% confidence interval 1.041–3.432; P = 0.036), but not in male T2DM patients. Correlation analyses revealed that A‐FABP concentrations were correlated with body mass index (BMI), diastolic blood pressure, urinary microalbumin, and serum creatinine in male patients, and with BMI, duration of T2DM, fasting blood glucose, and serum creatinine in female patients.

Conclusions

Serum A‐FABP concentrations are closely associated with PAD in Chinese women with T2DM. The study findings suggest that A‐FABP may be a more specific marker of PAD in diabetic women than men.
Efficacy and safety of weekly intravenous nanoparticle albumin‐bound paclitaxel for non‐small cell lung cancer patients who have failed at least two prior systemic treatments
Authors: Duan Jianchun , Hao Yueqin , Wan Rui , Yu Sifan , Bai Hua , An Tongtong , Zhao Jun , Wang Zhijie , Zhuo Minglei , Wang Jie
Published: March 2017

Background

The study was conducted to evaluate the efficacy and safety of weekly intravenous nanoparticle albumin‐bound paclitaxel (NAB‐paclitaxel) treatment in patients with advanced non‐small‐cell lung cancer (NSCLC) who have undergone multi‐line therapy, and to investigate the association of secreted protein acidic and rich in cysteine (SPARC) expression status with clinical outcome.

Methods

Sixty‐four patients who received NAB‐paclitaxel treatment (130 mg/m2 on days 1 and 8 of a 21 day cycle) as third line or further systemic treatment from 1 May 2011 to 30 June 2014 were included in this retrospective analysis. Tumor tissue was available in 28 patients for analysis of SPARC expression by immunohistochemistry.

Results

Sixty‐two patients had response evaluation and complete survival follow‐up data; 83.9% received the weekly NAB‐paclitaxel as fourth‐line treatment or beyond. The objective response and disease control rates (n = 62) were 16.1% (10/62) and 64.5% (40/62), respectively. The median progression‐free and overall survival rates were 3.7 (95% confidence interval 2.6–4.8) and 9.8 months (95% confidence interval 6.9–12.8), respectively. Previous treatment with taxane did not affect the response to NAB‐paclitaxel. The main grade 3–4 toxicities experienced were neutropenia (9.4%) and leukopenia (7.8%). Patients with SPARC expression in tumor stroma but not in cancer cells had poorer progression‐free survival compared with those with negative SPARC expression in tumor stroma cells (3.3 vs. 5.0 months, P = 0.036).

Conclusion

Weekly NAB‐paclitaxel might be effective for heavily pretreated NSCLC patients. SPARC expression in tumor stroma cells might be a potential negative predictor of NAB‐paclitaxel.
Long lasting effects of chronic heavy cannabis abuse
Authors: Nestoros Joannis N. , Vakonaki Elena , Tzatzarakis Manolis N. , Alegakis Athanasios , Skondras Markos D. , Tsatsakis Aristidis M.
Published: March 2017

Background and Objectives

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the extent of short‐term memory impairment and schizophrenia‐like symptoms in heavy and systematic cannabis users and the association between the severity of abuse and the longevity of its persistent symptoms after refraining from such use.

Methods

A complete psychiatric examination and a psychometric evaluation were performed in 48 solely cannabis users. Additionally, head hair samples were analyzed and the detected cannabinoids levels were correlated with the psychometric findings.

Results

A total of 33.3% (n = 16) of the total examined cannabis users were currently imprisoned. The years of abuse ranged from 1 to 35 years and the median daily dose was 5.84.4 gr and 4.84.0 gr for prisoners (n = 16) and non prisoners (n = 32), respectively. A total of 39.6% of the users experienced hallucinations (mostly auditory), 54.2% experienced delusions (mostly ideas of reference and persecution), 85.4% had organic brain dysfunction in a test addressing visual‐motor functioning and visual perception skills, and all users (100%) were found to have organic brain dysfunction in a test of visual memory immediate recall. The cannabinoid metabolite levels in the hair samples were consistent with the reported history of substance abuse and total grams of consumption for the participants below 35 years old (p < .001). Statistically elevated cannabinoids levels were observed in users with auditory hallucinations compared to users without any hallucinations (p = .019).

Conclusions

The existence of hallucinations, delusions, and organic brain dysfunction in heavy cannabis users seems to be associated with cannabinoid levels in hair. The continuation of persistent symptoms 3 months after the discontinuation of cannabis abuse, was a remarkable finding.

Scientific Significance

We provide evidence that chronic and heavy cannabis abuse results in long‐lasting brain dysfunction in all users and in long‐lasting schizophrenia‐like psychotic symptoms in more than half of all users. These findings suggest a reevaluation of the current classification of cannabis as a “soft narcotic” which erroneously, therefore, is typically considered harmless. (Am J Addict 2017;26:335–342)
Quality of life on TSU‐68: Combination of docetaxel and TSU‐68, an oral antiangiogenic agent, in patients with metastatic breast cancer previously treated with anthracycline
Authors: Sohn Byeong Seok , Kim Sung‐Bae , Ahn Jin‐Hee , Jung Kyung Hae , Kim Jeongeun , Lee Keun Seok , Ro Jungsil , Im Seock‐Ah , Im Young‐Hyuck , Song Hong Suk , Park Hee Sook , Chung Hyun‐Cheol
Published: March 2017

Aim

The aim of this study is to investigate whether the addition of TSU‐68 would affect on the quality of life (QOL) of Korean metastatic breast cancer patients treated with docetaxel.

Methods

Sixty‐three of 78 patients completed the baseline QOL questionnaires and at least one follow‐up questionnaire comprising questions from the Korean Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy–Breast (FACT‐B), hospital anxiety and depression scale (HAD), the shortened form of the profile of mood states (BPOMS), and anticipation and anxiety for treatment scale. Changes in QOL scores from baseline were compared by analysis of covariance at each time point (6, 12 weeks, 9, 12 and 18 months) and at the end of treatment (EOT), and the longitudinal changes over time were evaluated by repeated measure analysis.

Results

The two‐treatment groups (TSU‐68 plus docetaxel [A] vs docetaxel alone [B]) were well balanced regarding sociodemographic characteristics, including age (P = 0.450), religion (P = 1.000), education (P = 0.257), ECOG performance status (P = 0.261), and employment status (P = 0.325). The return rate at EOT was 61.9%. In analyses at each QOL measuring time, A group showed a higher FACT‐B total score and FACT‐G score than B at 12 months (P = 0.031 and P = 0.024, respectively). The anticipation and anxiety for treatment scale of A group was higher than that of B at 12 weeks and EOT (P = 0.046 and P = 0.022, respectively). However, repeated measure analysis for longitudinal changes over time showed no significant group wise differences.

Conclusions

The combination of TSU‐68 with docetaxel showed no additional adverse effects on patient QOL during the study period, as compared with docetaxel monotherapy.
Positioning the principles of precision medicine in care pathways for allergic rhinitis and chronic rhinosinusitis – A EUFOREA‐ARIA‐EPOS‐AIRWAYS ICP statement
Authors: Hellings P. W. , Fokkens W. J. , Bachert C. , Akdis C. A. , Bieber T. , Agache I. , Bernal‐Sprekelsen M. , Canonica G. W. , Gevaert P. , Joos G. , Lund V. , Muraro A. , Onerci M. , Zuberbier T. , Pugin B. , Seys S. F. , Bousquet J. ,   ARIA and EPOS working groups
Published: March 2017

Precision medicine (PM) is increasingly recognized as the way forward for optimizing patient care. Introduced in the field of oncology, it is now considered of major interest in other medical domains like allergy and chronic airway diseases, which face an urgent need to improve the level of disease control, enhance patient satisfaction and increase effectiveness of preventive interventions. The combination of personalized care, prediction of treatment success, prevention of disease and patient participation in the elaboration of the treatment plan is expected to substantially improve the therapeutic approach for individuals suffering from chronic disabling conditions. Given the emerging data on the impact of patient stratification on treatment outcomes, European and American regulatory bodies support the principles of PM and its potential advantage over current treatment strategies. The aim of the current document was to propose a consensus on the position and gradual implementation of the principles of PM within existing adult treatment algorithms for allergic rhinitis (AR) and chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). At the time of diagnosis, prediction of success of the initiated treatment and patient participation in the decision of the treatment plan can be implemented. The second‐level approach ideally involves strategies to prevent progression of disease, in addition to prediction of success of therapy, and patient participation in the long‐term therapeutic strategy. Endotype‐driven treatment is part of a personalized approach and should be positioned at the tertiary level of care, given the efforts needed for its implementation and the high cost of molecular diagnosis and biological treatment.
Returns to Education Using a Sample of Twins: Evidence from Japan*
Authors: Nakamuro Makiko , Inui Tomohiko , Yamagata Shinji
Published: March 2017

The objective of this article is to measure the causal effect of education on earnings using a large dataset of twins compiled in Japan with wide‐ranging socioeconomic information. Recent research conducted in China showed that, contrary to the case in Western countries, ability bias is large in estimating the return to education. It is argued that the low rate of return in China is in part due to the competitive and exam‐oriented education system, which is similar to the system in Japan. The empirical results in our study show that the estimated rate of return to education using the sample of identical twins in Japan is 9.3 percent even after omitted ability bias and measurement errors in self‐reported schooling were corrected. Our findings suggest that the conventional OLS estimate is not significantly contaminated by potential biases in Japan.
Contralateral pneumothorax during retroperitoneal laparoscopic donor nephrectomy: A case report
Authors: Matsushita Yuto , Miyake Hideaki , Motoyama Daisuke , Sugiyama Takayuki , Nagata Masao , Otsuka Atsushi , Furuse Hiroshi , Ozono Seiichiro
Published: March 2017

This report presents a case of a 46‐year‐old woman in whom contralateral pneumothorax occurred during retroperitoneal laparoscopic donor nephrectomy without any evidence of diaphragmatic injuries. After the start of carbon dioxide‐induced pneumoperitoneum, the patient's end‐tidal carbon dioxide pressure and heart rate suddenly increased. The surgery was then paused, and a chest X‐ray revealed a right pneumothorax accompanied by pneumomediastinum. After a thoracostomy tube was inserted, these symptoms immediately improved. After conversion to an open procedure, the surgery was completed. The thoracostomy tube was removed the next day, and the patient was discharged without any complications. As the pneumothorax occurred on the opposite side to the operative field and there was no evidence of diaphragmatic injury, it is suspected to have been caused by a pneumomediastinum‐induced rupture of the barrier between the mediastinum and pleural space. This may have occurred due to the insufflated carbon dioxide gas passing directly into the mediastinum and then the pleural space.