bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How to explain the liquidity risk by the dynamics of discretionary loan loss provisions and non-performing loans? The impact of the global crisis
Authors: Riahi Youssef Mohamed
Published: January 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the impact of discretionary loan loss provisions (DLLPs) and non-performing loans (NPLs) on the liquidity risk of both Islamic banks (IBs) and conventional banks (CBs) before and after the global crisis that hit nations belonging to the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC).

Design/methodology/approach

This empirical study uses balanced panel data on 16 IBs and 58 CBs operating in the six Gulf Cooperation states covering 2000–2014. The data were obtained from the Bankscope database and the banks’ annual reports.

Findings

The results indicate that NPLs affect liquidity risk differently across the banks – specifically, there is a significant difference in the funding and managing of liquidity between the two bank types. The authors find that the influence of DLLPs does not vary across the banks in the overall analysis and before the crisis. This finding provides insights into the unique nature of banking risks in dual banking systems. The authors also find that after the crisis, the discretionary LLPs affected liquidity risk differently across the banks.

Practical implications

This study has several practical implications. First, the findings suggest that the Islamic Financial Services Board and other IBs regulators should reassess several regulations, principles and products in order to reduce their credit and liquidity risks. Second, the study emphasizes the need for banks to perform a careful assessment of the effects of their LLP policies. Finally, the findings are also relevant to bankers, as they provide empirical evidence on the effect of loan growth on bank liquidity, suggesting that bankers should improve their loan management.

Originality/value

First, this is the first study to examine discretionary LLPs, NPLs and liquidity risk in IBs; it is also the first comparative study between Islamic and CBs. Second, the study provides evidence on how the global crisis impacted the banking sector and identifies some of the main determinants of liquidity risk for both Islamic and CBs operating in GCC countries.
Searching for a theory of dark social entrepreneurship
Authors: Talmage Craig Allen , Bell Jocelyn , Dragomir Gheorghe
Published: January 2019

Purpose

This paper aims to extend social entrepreneurship theory by investigating the darker sides of innovation and enterprise. Entrepreneurship and social entrepreneurship theories regarding shifting equilibriums are considered alongside other traditions. This research presents how individuals see enterprises as dark and light and discusses how such perceptions are important to building emerging theories of light and dark social entrepreneurship.

Design/methodology/approach

The study uses a survey of public perceptions (n= 631) regarding the social and economic impact of a total of 15 different enterprises to create a map of the darker variations of enterprises. An 11-point scale was used to evaluate perceived impact.

Findings

The mapping of each enterprise on a coordinate plane resulted in four thematic areas: traditional enterprises (light social, light economic), taboo enterprises (dark social, light economic), dark enterprises (dark social, dark economic) and alternative enterprises (light social, dark economic). Some enterprises crossed between the thematic areas.

Research limitations/implications

This study opens up new directions for research on dark social entrepreneurship and research on enterprises that influence social equilibriums.

Practical implications

This study provides guidance for practitioners and policymakers to better understand phenomena such as dark, taboo and alternative enterprises and their nuances.

Social implications

This study allows for a broader look at social entrepreneurship, innovation and enterprise to better understand dark and light nuances. Similarities between the lighter and darker forms of enterprises are noted.

Originality/value

This study builds on dark entrepreneurship and dark social entrepreneurship theories and concepts using empirical methods.
Economic evaluation of simulated and traditional clinical placements in occupational therapy education
Authors: Gospodarevskaya Elena , Carter Rob , Imms Christine , Chu Eli Mang Yee , Nicola‐Richmond Kelli , Gribble Nigel , Froude Elspeth , Guinea Stephen , Sheppard Loretta , Iezzi Angelo , Chen Gang
Published: January 2019

Introduction

This economic evaluation complements results of the randomised controlled trial that established non‐inferiority of the learning outcomes of a one‐week simulated clinical placement (SCP) in occupational therapy qualifying degrees in comparison to an equivalent traditional clinical placement (TCP). This companion study presents detailed cost analyses of two placement alternatives and a cost‐benefit study to assess the value for money of SCP. An economic evaluation of simulated versus traditional placements has not previously been conducted in Australia.

Methods

Nine SCP/TCP rounds were conducted by six Australian universities. Costs were collected using study‐specific instruments. Public health sector costs were sourced from available literature. Willingness‐to‐pay for SCP/TCP was estimated using both a Discrete Choice Experiment and a Contingent Valuation method. These methods were employed to assess a comparative ‘value’ of SCP/TCP from the perspective of heads of occupational therapy departments (N = 28), who were asked to put a monetary value on the broader range of benefits associated with SCP/TCP.

Results

From the universities’ perspective the average cost per student ranged from AUD$460 to AUD$1511 for simulated and AUD$144 to AUD$1112 for traditional placement. From the health care sector perspective, the difference in costs favoured simulated placements for four implementations and traditional placements for five. In the Discrete Choice Experiment respondents preferred traditional rather than simulated placement and would pay additional AUD$533. The estimated monetary value of simulated placements from a contingent valuation ranged from AUD$200 to AUD$1600.

Conclusions

For universities that procure TCPs predominately at public health care facilities and sustain high administrative overheads, the SCP program could be a cost‐saving alternative. From a broader value‐for‐money perspective, respondents favoured TCP over SCP, yet placed importance on placement availability and opportunity to demonstrate competence for students during the placement. Results should be interpreted with caution and further research with larger sample sizes is required.
The inter‐rater reliability of the Powered Mobility Device Assessment Training Tool
Authors: Townsend Kathryn , Unsworth Carolyn A.
Published: January 2019

Introduction

The prescription of powered mobility devices for clients is an important role for occupational therapists. However, the skill of may powered mobility device users to drive their devices remains unknown and clients are provided with only brief education on their use. Few assessments exist to guide mobility device use assessment, and none of these incorporate the training clients need. The aim of this paper was to investigate the inter‐rater reliability of a new assessment and training tool called the Powered Mobility Device Assessment Training Tool (PoMoDATT).

Method

The PoMoDATT comprises an initial interview and then Part A‐ cognitive skills, Part B physical and psychosocial skills and Part C driving skills and behaviours. The assessment outcome is a profile of the client's physical, cognitive and psychosocial skills related to powered mobility device use. The driving assessments of 24 powered mobility device users were video‐recorded, and four experienced occupational therapists scored the clients on the 26 items of Part C of the PoMoDATT.

Results

Following clarification of three items which included re‐scoring and data re‐analysis, the inter‐rater reliability for the PoMoDATT Part C items ranged from ICC (2, 1) 0.641 to 0.938 suggesting moderate to excellent agreement.

Conclusions

The PoMoDATT Part C has demonstrated adequate inter‐rater reliability to support its use by occupational therapists to assess powered mobility device user's capacities and abilities and to highlight ongoing training needs.
Structure, function and resilience to desiccation of methanogenic microbial communities in temporarily inundated soils of the Amazon rainforest (Cunia Reserve, Rondonia)
Authors: Hernández Marcela , Klose Melanie , Claus Peter , Bastviken David , Marotta Humberto , Figueiredo Viviane , Enrich‐Prast Alex , Conrad Ralf
Published: January 2019

The floodplain of the Amazon River is a large source for the greenhouse gas methane, but the soil microbial communities and processes involved are little known. We studied the structure and function of the methanogenic microbial communities in soils across different inundation regimes in the Cunia Reserve, encompassing nonflooded forest soil (dry forest), occasionally flooded Igapo soils (dry Igapo), long time flooded Igapo soils (wet Igapo) and sediments from Igarape streams (Igarape). We also investigated a Transect (four sites) from the water shoreline into the dry forest. The potential and resilience of the CH4 production process were studied in the original soil samples upon anaerobic incubation and again after artificial desiccation and rewetting. Bacterial and archaeal 16S rRNA genes and methanogenic mcrA were always present in the soils, except in dry forest soils where mcrA increased only upon anaerobic incubation. NMDS analysis showed a clear effect of desiccation and rewetting treatments on both bacterial and archaeal communities. However, the effects of the different sites were less pronounced, with the exception of Igarape. After anaerobic incubation, methanogenic taxa became more abundant among the Archaea, while there was only little change among the Bacteria. Contribution of hydrogenotrophic methanogenesis was usually around 40%. After desiccation and rewetting, we found that Firmicutes, Methanocellales and Methanosarcinaceae became the dominant taxa, but rates and pathways of CH4 production stayed similar. Such change was also observed in soils from the Transects. The results indicate that microbial community structures of Amazonian soils will in general be strongly affected by flooding and drainage events, while differences between specific field sites will be comparatively minor.
Do China's people favour redistribution? Evidence from an incentivized experiment
Authors: He Tai‐Sen , Putterman Louis , Wang Liangjun
Published: January 2019

From 1949, China's leaders brought their country through three decades of income and wealth compression, which was followed by more than three decades of sharply rising inequality. What preferences do China's people hold regarding what price (if any) is worth paying for greater equality? We conduct a laboratory decision‐making experiment mimicking aspects of a macro‐political–economic environment, using Chinese undergraduate student subjects. We find that our subjects have qualitatively similar tastes for equality as their counterparts in parallel US and European experiments; for example, most are willing to sacrifice some payment for more equality of earnings among other participants, and their willingness to do this is stronger when inequalities originate randomly versus based on performance. Considering the cases permitting direct comparison between Chinese and US subjects’ choices, redistributive choices tend to be a bit higher in China if the participant pays no direct cost and a bit lower if he or she pays such a cost, but the two distributions of decisions differ significantly in under 14% of conditions. Survey data too suggests preferences for a more equal income distribution in China than in other East Asian countries, suggesting a possible impact of the Chinese Communist Party dominance in education and media.
Determining the Method Threshold of Identification via Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry of Weathered Gasoline Extracted from Burnt Nylon Carpet,
Authors: Hondrogiannis Ellen M. , Newton Charlotte , Alibozek Rachel
Published: January 2019

The Organization of Scientific Area Committees defines threshold of identification as the minimum concentration of ignitable liquid identifiable from gas chromatographic‐mass spectrometry data using accepted pattern identification criteria. We propose a method for determining this threshold for gasoline based on base peak to qualifier ratios of six compounds. The ion ratios were established for each compound in the neat gasoline. These ratios were then compared to those obtained for gasoline and 98% weathered gasoline both spiked onto burnt nylon carpet at 20 ppt down 0.50 ppt, and recovered from the carpet using headspace extraction (ASTM 1412). Identification was confirmed if the compounds’ ion ratios fell within ±25% of that in the neat sample. We found that ion ratios for all samples were acceptable for six compounds at 1.60 and 0.80 ppt for extracted neat and extracted 98% weathered gasoline, respectively, illustrating potential for incorporating into Quality Assurance Programs.
Developing noninvasive methodologies to assess koala population health through detecting Chlamydia from scats
Authors: Cristescu Romane H. , Miller Russell L. , Schultz Anthony J. , Hulse Lyndal , Jaccoud Damian , Johnston Stephen , Hanger Jon , Booth Rosie , Frère Céline H.
Published: January 2019

Wildlife diseases are a recognized driver of global biodiversity loss, have substantial economic impacts, and are increasingly becoming a threat to human health. Disease surveillance is critical but remains difficult in the wild due to the substantial costs and potential biases associated with most disease detection methods. Noninvasive scat surveys have been proposed as a health monitoring methodology to overcome some of these limitations. Here, we use the known threat of Chlamydia disease to the iconic, yet vulnerable, koala Phascolarctos cinereus to compare three methods for Chlamydia detection in scats: multiplex quantitative PCR, next generation sequencing, and a detection dog specifically trained on scats from Chlamydia‐infected koalas. All three methods demonstrated 100% specificity, while sensitivity was variable. Of particular interest is the variable sensitivity of these diagnostic tests to detect sick individuals (i.e., not only infection as confirmed by Chlamydia‐positive swabs, but with observable clinical signs of the disease); for koalas with urogenital tract disease signs, sensitivity was 78% with quantitative PCR, 50% with next generation genotyping and 100% with the detection dog method. This may be due to molecular methods having to rely on high‐quality DNA whereas the dog most likely detects volatile organic compounds. The most appropriate diagnostic test will vary with disease prevalence and the specific aims of disease surveillance. Acknowledging that detection dogs might not be easily accessible to all, the future development of affordable and portable “artificial noses” to detect diseases from scats in the field might enable cost‐effective, rapid and large‐scale disease surveillance.
Using quantum dots as pollen labels to track the fates of individual pollen grains
Authors: Minnaar Corneile , Anderson Bruce
Published: January 2019

Despite a long history of significant advances in understanding natural selection and evolution, the field of plant reproductive biology has largely studied plant mating without directly tracking pollen movement due to a lack of suitable pollen‐tracking methods.

Here, we develop and test a novel pollen‐tracking technique using quantum dots as pollen‐grain labels. Quantum dots are semiconductor nanocrystals that are so small, they behave like atoms. When exposed to UV light, they emit extremely bright light in both visible and infrared wavelengths. We tested the suitability of non‐toxic CuInSexS2 − x/ZnS (core/shell) quantum dots with oleic‐acid ligands as pollen‐grain labels. Using a micropipette, we dispensed quantum dots dissolved in hexane in minute volumes (0.15–0.5 μl) directly onto dehisced anthers of four different plant species from four different families (Wachendorfia paniculata [Haemodoraceae], Sparaxis villosa [Iridaceae], Arctotheca calendula [Asteraceae], Oxalis purpurea [Oxalidaceae]).

After application, the hexane solvent evaporated immediately, leaving behind quantum dots that remained attached to pollen grains of the four different plant species even after agitation in a polar solvent. This suggests a lipophilic interaction between oleic‐acid ligands on quantum dots, and pollenkitt surrounding pollen grains. We also showed that most pollen grains within anthers of the same four plant species were labelled with quantum dots after applying a volume of quantum‐dot solution sufficient to cover an individual anther. To test whether quantum‐dot pollen labels influenced pollen transport, we conducted pollen transfer trials (one donor, 10 sequential recipients) on S. villosa using captively reared honey bees to ensure bees were free of external pollen prior to experiments. We found no difference in pollen transport to recipients from donor flowers with labelled or unlabelled pollen grains.

We demonstrate that quantum dots can be used as pollen labels allowing subsequent tracking of pollen fates. This method is relatively inexpensive (<$500 for equipment and ca. $0.02 per labelled anther thereafter) and can be simply and directly applied to anthers of most flowers in the lab and field. The ability to track pollen grain movement in situ, may help to address a historically neglected aspect of plant reproductive ecology and evolution.
Using unmanned aerial vehicle‐based multispectral, RGB and thermal imagery for phenotyping of forest genetic trials: A case study inPinus halepensis
Authors: Santini Filippo , Kefauver Shawn C. , Resco de Dios Victor , Araus José L. , Voltas Jordi
Published: January 2019

The assessment of genetic differentiation in functional traits is fundamental towards understanding the adaptive characteristics of forest species. While traditional phenotyping techniques are costly and time‐consuming, remote sensing data derived from cameras mounted on unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) provide potentially valid high‐throughput information for assessing morphophysiological differences among tree populations. In this work, we test for genetic variation in vegetation indices (VIs) and canopy temperature among populations ofPinus halepensisas proxies for canopy architecture, leaf area, photosynthetic pigments, photosynthetic efficiency and water use. The interpopulation associations between vegetation properties and above‐ground growth (stem volume) were also assessed. Three flights (July 2016, November 2016 and May 2017) were performed in a genetic trial consisting of 56 populations covering a large part of the species range. Multispectral (visible and near infrared wavelengths), RGB (red, green, blue) and thermal images were used to estimate canopy temperature and vegetation cover (VC) and derive several VIs. Differences among populations emerged consistently across flights for VC and VIs related to leaf area, indicating genetic divergence in crown architecture. Population differences in indices related to photosynthetic pigments emerged only in May 2017 and were probably related to a contrasting phenology of needle development. Conversely, the low population differentiation for the same indices in July 2016 and November 2016 suggested weak interpopulation variation in the photosynthetic machinery of mature needles ofP. halepensis. Population differences in canopy temperature found in July 2016 were indicative of variation in stomatal regulation under drought stress. Stem volume correlated with indices related to leaf area (positively) and with canopy temperature (negatively), indicating a strong influence of canopy properties and stomatal conductance on above‐ground growth at the population level. Specifically, a combination of VIs and canopy temperature accounted for about 60% of population variability in stem volume of adult trees. This is the first study to propose UAV remote sensing as an effective tool for screening genetic variation in morphophysiological traits of adult forest trees.
Accounting as an engine for the re‐creation of strategy at a university
Authors: Ozdil Esin , Hoque Zahirul
Published: January 2019

This paper examines the role of accounting in the strategy re‐creation of a university. Drawing on Donald MacKenzie's theoretical notion of performative engines, our field study of an Australian university reveals how accounting, through various calculative practices, fuelled change and steered people into strategic action, leading to the formation of a new strategic plan. We contribute to the existing accounting and higher education literature on university strategising by illustrating how accounting, when convincing and accepted by decision‐makers, can function as an engine for the transformation and financialisation of universities’ strategies.
Preconception and antenatal knowledge and beliefs about gestational weight gain
Authors: Hill Briony , Hayden Melissa , McPhie Skye , Bailey Cate , Skouteris Helen
Published: January 2019

Background

Prevention of excessive gestational weight gain during pregnancy is difficult; targeting women before pregnancy may be more effective.

Aims

In order to generate knowledge that may influence the development of effective interventions to promote healthy weight in reproductive‐aged women, this study aimed to explore knowledge and belief formation regarding gestational weight gain for preconception and pregnant women.

Materials and Methods

Women ≥18 years (preconception n = 265; pregnant women at 16 weeks gestation n = 271) completed questionnaires assessing knowledge and beliefs about gestational weight gain. Responses were categorised according to the 2009 Institute of Medicine gestational weight gain recommendations.

Results

Preconception women exhibited poorer gestational weight gain knowledge than pregnant women, yet only half of pregnant women reported accurate gestational weight gain knowledge within the Institute of Medicine recommendations. Beliefs about gestational weight gain were also inaccurate for both preconception and pregnant women, with 34.1% of pregnant and 44.6% of preconception women expecting to gain less than recommendations. Gestational weight gain knowledge accounted for about half of the variance in gestational weight gain beliefs.

Conclusions

Overall, the large inaccuracies in gestational weight gain knowledge and beliefs reported by both preconception and pregnant women suggest significant gaps in dissemination of gestational weight gain advice throughout the reproductive life phase. Knowledge is an important part of belief formation that can lead to appropriate weight gain. Hence, health professionals and policy makers should actively pursue opportunities to improve gestational weight gain knowledge in reproductive‐aged women.
Targeting the hepcidin–ferroportin pathway in anaemia of chronic kidney disease
Authors: Sheetz Matthew , Barrington Philip , Callies Sophie , Berg Paul H. , McColm Juliet , Marbury Thomas , Decker Brian , Dyas Gregory L. , Truhlar Stephanie M.E. , Benschop Robert , Leung Donmienne , Berg Jolene , Witcher Derrick R.
Published: January 2019

Aims

Erythropoiesis‐stimulating agents used to treat anaemia in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) have been associated with cardiovascular adverse events. Hepcidin production, controlled by bone morphogenic protein 6 (BMP6), regulates iron homeostasis via interactions with the iron transporter, ferroportin. High hepcidin levels are thought to contribute to increased iron sequestration and subsequent anaemia in CKD patients. To investigate alternative therapies to erythropoiesis‐stimulating agents for CKD patients, monoclonal antibodies, LY3113593 and LY2928057, targeting BMP6 and ferroportin respectively, were tested in CKD patients.

Methods

Preclinical in vitro/vivo data and clinical data in healthy subjects and CKD patients were used to illustrate the translation of pharmacological properties of LY3113593 and LY2928057, highlighting the novelty of targeting these nodes within the hepcidin–ferroportin pathway.

Results

LY2928057 bound ferroportin and blocked interactions with hepcidin, allowing iron efflux, leading to increased serum iron and transferrin saturation levels and increased hepcidin in monkeys and humans. In CKD patients, LY2928057 led to slower haemoglobin decline and reduction in ferritin (compared to placebo). Serum iron increase was (mean [90% confidence interval]) 1.98 [1.46–2.68] and 1.36 [1.22–1.51] fold‐relative to baseline following LY2928057 600 mg and LY311593 150 mg respectively in CKD patients. LY3113593 specifically blocked BMP6 binding to its receptor and produced increases in iron and transferrin saturation and decreases in hepcidin preclinically and clinically. In CKD patients, LY3113593 produced an increase in haemoglobin and reduction in ferritin (compared to placebo).

Conclusion

LY3113593 and LY2928057 pharmacological effects (serum iron and ferritin) were translated from preclinical‐to‐clinical development. Such interventions may lead to new CKD anaemia treatments.
Lamotrigine drug interactions in combination therapy and the influence of therapeutic drug monitoring on clinical outcomes in paediatric patients
Authors: Koristkova Blanka , Grundmann Milan , Brozmanova Hana , Kacirova Ivana
Published: January 2019

The aim was to study the impact of therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) on paediatric patients on lamotrigine therapy and the evaluation of possible drug interactions, especially in triple antiepileptic drug combinations. During the period of 2001‐2015, 1308 pre‐dose samples were taken from 430 patients <15 years of age as part of routine TDM. Drug interactions were evaluated using calculation of lamotrigine clearance. Valproic acid decreased lamotrigine clearance by 54% in bitherapy, and by 21% in triple therapy with carbamazepine. Carbamazepine increased lamotrigine clearance by 191% in bitherapy. Levetiracetam and topiramate had no effect. The upper limit of lamotrigine therapeutic range (TR) was exceeded in 2% of cases in monotherapy, and in 6%‐7% of cases in bi‐ or triple therapy. About 61% of plasma levels were found within the TR during 2001‐2005, compared to 75% and 74% during 2006‐2010 and 2011‐2015, respectively. Adverse drug reactions (ADRs) were reported in 22 cases. Higher number of supratherapeutic levels in combination therapy led to a 3‐fold increase in incidence of ADRs. Seizures occurred more often daily and monthly during 2001‐2005 and in patients with three or four antiepileptic drugs in combination. Carbamazepine only partially compensated for the inhibitory effect of valproic acid. Lamotrigine clearance in monotherapy in children is similar to adults, but in polytherapy was found higher susceptibility to induction. A significantly higher number of supratherapeutic lamotrigine levels were found in combinations with valproate. Despite poor correlation with TR, both seizure frequency and ADRs declined after the implementation of TDM.
How we manage patients with pyruvate kinase deficiency
Authors: Grace Rachael F. , Mark Layton D. , Barcellini Wilma
Published: January 2019

Novel therapies in development have brought a new focus on pyruvate kinase deficiency (PKD), the most common congenital haemolytic anaemia due to a glycolytic enzyme deficiency. With an improved recognition of its clinical presentation and understanding of the diagnostic pathway, more patients are likely to be identified with this anaemia. Complications, including gallstones and non‐transfusion‐related iron overload, require monitoring for early diagnosis and management. Current management remains supportive with red cell transfusions, chelation and splenectomy. Decisions to transfuse and/or splenectomise must be individualised. Haematopoietic stem cell transplant has been pursued in a small number of patients with mixed outcomes. Novel treatment approaches, which range from a small molecule pyruvate kinase activator to gene therapy, may transform the way in which PKD is managed in the future. In this review, we discuss the pathophysiology of PKD and present our approaches to diagnosis, monitoring and management of patients with this anaemia.
Low burden of minimal residual disease prior to transplantation in children with very high risk acute lymphoblastic leukaemia: The NOPHO ALL2008 experience
Authors: Ifversen Marianne , Turkiewicz Dominik , Marquart Hanne V. , Winiarski Jacek , Buechner Jochen , Mellgren Karin , Arvidson Johan , Rascon Jelena , Körgvee Lenne‐Triin , Madsen Hans O. , Abrahamsson Jonas , Lund Bendik , Jonsson Olafur G. , Heilmann Carsten , Heyman Mats , Schmiegelow Kjeld , Vettenranta Kim
Published: January 2019

The population‐based Nordic/Baltic acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) Nordic Society for Paediatric Haematology and Oncology (NOPHO) ALL2008 protocol combined minimal residual disease (MRD)‐driven treatment stratification with very intense first line chemotherapy for patients with high risk ALL. Patients with MRD ≥5% at end of induction or ≥10−3 at end of consolidation or following two high risk blocks were eligible for haematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) in first remission. After at least three high risk blocks a total of 71 children received HCT, of which 46 had MRD ≥5% at end of induction. Ten patients stratified to HCT were not transplanted; 12 received HCT without protocol indication. Among 69 patients with evaluable pre‐HCT MRD results, 22 were MRD‐positive, one with MRD ≥10−3. After a median follow‐up of 5·5 years, the cumulative incidence of relapse was 23·5% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 10·5–47·7) for MRD‐positive versus 5·1% (95% CI: 1·3–19·2), P = 0·02) for MRD‐negative patients. MRD was the only variable significantly associated with relapse (hazard ratio 9·1, 95% CI: 1·6–51·0, P = 0·012). Non‐relapse mortality did not differ between the two groups, resulting in disease‐free survival of 85·6% (95% CI: 75·4–97·2) and 67·4% (95% CI: 50·2–90·5), respectively. In conclusion, NOPHO block treatment efficiently reduced residual leukaemia which, combined with modern transplant procedures, provided high survival rates, also among pre‐HCT MRD‐positive patients.
Intravenous iron treatment reduces coagulability in patients with iron deficiency anaemia: a longitudinal study
Authors: Nashashibi Jeries , Avraham Gilat R. , Schwartz Naama , Awni Youssef , Elias Mazen
Published: January 2019

Although many case reports and observational studies have reported a correlation between iron deficiency anaemia (IDA) and thrombotic events, the mechanism for this is poorly understood. To evaluate this, we examined the change in coagulability in patients receiving treatment for IDA. Adult patients with IDA were recruited for this study and treated with intravenous iron. The change in coagulability was assessed by thrombin generation using the calibrated automated thrombogram method. The change in factor VIII (FVIII) activity was later examined as a possible link. Forty‐eight participants received intravenous iron and were included in this study. After treatment with intravenous iron, endogenous thrombin potential and peak height decreased in IDA patients by a mean of 122·4 nmol/l/min (95% confidence interval [CI]: 17·9–227, P = 0·023) and 51·9 (95% CI: 26·6–77·2, P < 0·001) respectively. Time to peak (peak time) increased by a mean of 23·6 s (95% CI: 5·4–41·9, P = 0·012). FVIII activity was reduced by a mean of 9·6% (95% CI: 2·54–16·7, P = 0·009). In conclusion, treating IDA reduces the blood's coagulability, as evidenced by the change in thrombin generation and FVIII activity levels. No correlation was found between the degree of iron deficiency correction and thrombogram parameters.
Distinguishing local and global correlates of population change in migratory species
Authors: Dhanjal‐Adams Kiran L. , Fuller Richard A. , Murray Nicholas J. , Studds Colin E. , Wilson Howard B. , Milton David A. , Kendall Bruce E.
Published: January 2019

Aim

Understanding the processes driving population declines in migratory species can be challenging. Not only are monitoring data spatially and temporally sparse, but conditions in one location can carry over to indirectly (and disproportionately) affect the population in another location. Here, we explore whether remote factors can sequentially, and potentially cumulatively, influence local population fluctuations in declining populations of shorebirds.

Location

Moreton Bay (Australia) and the East Asian–Australasian Flyway.

Methods

We use N‐mixture models to account for variable observer effort and estimate yearly population growth rate. We then use least squares regressions to correlate population growth rates with remotely sensed climate anomalies at different migratory stages. From this, we estimate species‐specific climate sensitivity indices and explore whether species which are declining more rapidly, or which rely more heavily on areas undergoing rapid habitat loss, have higher climate sensitivity indices.

Results

We find that species which rely more on the Yellow Sea during migratory stopover (a region which has undergone severe habitat loss) are more sensitive to rainfall anomalies in their Arctic breeding grounds, suggesting that habitat loss reduces the resilience of shorebirds to climate extremes. Furthermore, species with higher sensitivities to climatic conditions during stopover are also those which are declining quickest, suggesting that declining populations may also be less resilient to climate fluctuations at bottleneck sites. We also observed species‐specific correlations between climate anomalies at all migratory stages and population growth rates, primarily for eastern curlew and lesser sand plover.

Main conclusion

By applying methods in combination, it is possible to use citizen science data from a single location in a flyway of over 160 sites up to 11,680 km apart, to investigate how different stressors correlate with local population dynamics.
Case of a small intestinal arteriovenous malformation diagnosed by double‐balloon enteroscopy preoperatively
Authors: Miyasako Yuki , Kuwai Toshio , Ishaq Sauid
Published: January 2019

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Newborns are sensitive to multiple cues for word segmentation in continuous speech
Authors: Fló Ana , Brusini Perrine , Macagno Francesco , Nespor Marina , Mehler Jacques , Ferry Alissa L.
Published: January 2019

Before infants can learn words, they must identify those words in continuous speech. Yet, the speech signal lacks obvious boundary markers, which poses a potential problem for language acquisition (Swingley,Philos Trans R Soc Lond. Series B, Biol Sci364(1536), 3617–3632, 2009). By the middle of the first year, infants seem to have solved this problem (Bergelson & Swingley,Proc Natl Acad Sci109(9), 3253–3258, 2012; Jusczyk & Aslin, Cogn Psychol29, 1–23, 1995), but it is unknown if segmentation abilities are present from birth, or if they only emerge after sufficient language exposure and/or brain maturation. Here, in two independent experiments, we looked at two cues known to be crucial for the segmentation of human speech: the computation of statistical co‐occurrences between syllables and the use of the language's prosody. After a brief familiarization of about 3 min with continuous speech, using functional near‐infrared spectroscopy, neonates showed differential brain responses on a recognition test to words that violated either the statistical (Experiment 1) or prosodic (Experiment 2) boundaries of the familiarization, compared to words that conformed to those boundaries. Importantly, word recognition in Experiment 2 occurred even in the absence of prosodic information at test, meaning that newborns encoded the phonological content independently of its prosody. These data indicate that humans are born with operational language processing and memory capacities and can use at least two types of cues to segment otherwise continuous speech, a key first step in language acquisition.
Estimating costs of aphid resistance to parasitoids conferred by a protective strain of the bacterial endosymbiont Regiella insecticola
Authors: Jamin Anine R. , Vorburger Christoph
Published: January 2019

Heritable bacterial endosymbionts are common in aphids (Hemiptera: Aphididae), and they can influence ecologically important traits of their hosts. It is generally assumed that their persistence in a population is dependent on a balance between the costs and benefits they confer. A good example is Hamiltonella defensa Moran et al., a facultative symbiont that provides a benefit by strongly increasing aphid resistance to parasitoid wasps, but becomes costly to the host in the absence of parasitoids. Regiella insecticola Moran et al. is another common symbiont of aphids and generally does not influence resistance to parasitoids. In the green peach aphid, Myzus persicae (Sulzer), however, one strain (R5.15) was discovered that behaves like H. defensa in that it provides strong protection against parasitoid wasps. Here we compare R5.15‐infected and uninfected lines of three M. persicae clones to test whether this protective symbiont is costly as well, i.e., whether it has any negative effects on aphid life‐history traits. Furthermore, we transferred R5.15 to two other aphid species, the pea aphid, Acyrthosiphon pisum (Harris), and the black bean aphid, Aphis fabae Scopoli, where this strain is also protective against parasitoids and where we could compare its effects with those of additional, non‐protective strains of R. insecticola. Negative effects of R5.15 on host survival and lifetime reproduction were limited and frequently non‐significant, and these effects were comparable or in one case weaker than those of R. insecticola strains that are not protective against parasitoid wasps. Unless the benefit of protection is counteracted by detrimental effects on traits that were not considered in this study, R. insecticola strain R5.15 should have a high potential to spread in aphid populations.
Diapause research in insects: historical review and recent work perspectives
Authors: Tougeron Kévin
Published: January 2019

All organisms on Earth have evolved biological rhythms to face alternation of periods of favorable and unfavorable environmental conditions, at various temporal scales. Diapause is a state of seasonal dormancy adapted to recurring periods of adverse environmental conditions and triggered by biotic and abiotic factors that precede the arrival of these conditions. Several monographs already review the mechanisms of diapause expression in arthropods, from initiation to termination phases. Rather than adding another review to the literature on this topic, this paper primarily aims to link past concepts on seasonal strategies with new perspective on diapause research in arthropods. By focusing on insects, I examine the legacy of diapause history research in terrestrial arthropods since antiquity but mostly over the past 3 centuries, its contribution to the understanding of insect seasonal ecology, and I explore some of the reasons why it is still relevant to study diapause. I highlight some of the topical issues on which current work focuses to better understand and integrate arthropod diapause with their ecology, especially in the climate change context and for the provision of ecosystem services.
Mesozoic marine reptiles from Spitsbergen and their ecosystems
Authors: Delsett Lene L. , Druckenmiller Patrick S. , Hammer Øyvind , Hryniewicz Krzysztof , Knutsen Espen M. , Koevoets Maayke J. , Nakrem Hans A. , Roberts Aubrey J. , Hurum Jørn H.
Published: January 2019

In the Mesozoic seas, the apex predators were reptiles. From the Arctic archipelago of Svalbard, the Spitsbergen Mesozoic Research Group has excavated numerous well preserved marine reptile skeletons in order to understand the biology of these animals and the environment they lived in. The work of eleven field seasons has made this one of the largest and most productive palaeontological research projects in the high Arctic world‐wide. The initial eight seasons focused on one of the richest occurrences of Late Jurassic—earliest Cretaceous (c. 150–139 Ma) marine reptiles in the world, and nearly sixty specimens have been collected, together with a diverse assemblage of invertebrates, some of which are associated with methane seeps. The last three seasons were spent investigating events further back in time, as Spitsbergen preserves the remains from some of the first marine reptile radiations in the wake of the most devastating extinction in the history of the Earth, at the Permian–Triassic boundary (c. 252 Ma).
Generational perceptions of promotion and tenure expectations by faculty in a striving university: A quest for legitimacy?
Authors: Véliz Daniela , Gardner Susan K.
Published: January 2019

Striving universities seek to gain prestige in the academic market. One characteristic of striving universities is a change in the faculty reward system. In this study, we examined historical promotion and tenure criteria in five disciplinary units at one striving university and then conducted interviews with senior faculty and recently tenured faculty in each unit to better understand the striving dynamics at play. Findings demonstrated that pressures to seek legitimacy were a result of the faculty themselves, the institution’s desire to gain legitimacy through an increased research profile and the disciplinary ties outside the university.
Milk and milk‐derived peptides combat against hypertension and vascular dysfunction: a review
Authors: Siltari Aino , Vapaatalo Heikki , Korpela Riitta
Published: January 2019

Epidemiological studies have revealed that consumption of milk and fermented dairy products is inversely associated with elevated blood pressure and with many of the risk factors of the metabolic syndrome. Previously, calcium was thought to be behind this phenomenon, but during the last 20 years, convincing evidence emerging from experimental, epidemiological and intervention studies has highlighted the important role of the small peptides formed during fermentation processes. This review provides an overview of the potential blood pressure lowering components present in dairy products with a special focus on casein‐derived tripeptides.
A large sample investigation of the presence of nonlinear personality‐job performance relationships
Authors: Walmsley Philip T. , Sackett Paul R. , Nichols Stephen B.
Published: January 2019

We examine 123 data sets from validation studies of a single five‐factor model‐based occupational personality measure for evidence of curvilinear relationships with job performance. Research has produced discrepant findings about whether and when to expect curvilinear relationships between normal range personality measures and job performance. Previous studies have relied on small and unsystematic sampling, a variety of noncomparable performance criteria, the use of personality inventories for which construct validity evidence is not immediately available, and a focus on only one or two of the Big Five personality factors. We report minimal evidence of curvilinearity, suggesting that these effects are unlikely to undermine typical uses of personality test scores in decision making. Any expected declines in performance at high ends of the predictor range were very small on average and would be highly unlikely to produce scenarios in which those passing a realistic cut score would underperform those screened out. Indices of job complexity and the importance of the personality trait did not moderate the forms of each personality–performance relationship. The results are useful for evaluating whether curvilinearity is likely to be an issue when self‐report personality assessments are used to make decisions with tangible employment consequences.
Consent in the face of death
Authors: Scanlan Camilla L. , Stewart Cameron , Kerridge Ian
Published: January 2019

While the traditional model of consent is supported by codes and theories of ethics, is enshrined in law, and provides the core of health policy and clinical governance, it is unclear how accurately it reflects clinical practice and in particular how accurately it accounts for edition‐making in ‘high‐risk’ situations where patients are critically ill and facing death.
Access to social protection among people with disabilities: Evidence from Viet Nam
Authors: Banks Lena M. , Walsham Matthew , Minh Hoang Van , Duong Doan Thi Thuy , Ngan Tran Thu , Mai Vu Quynh , Blanchet Karl , Kuper Hannah
Published: January 2019

Although people with disabilities are frequently targeted as key beneficiaries of social protection, little is known on their access to existing programmes. This study uses mixed methods to explore participation in disability‐targeted and non‐targeted social protection programmes in Viet Nam, particularly in the district of Cam Le. In this district, social assistance and health insurance coverage among people with disabilities was 53 per cent and 96 per cent respectively. However, few accessed employment‐linked social insurance and other disability‐targeted benefits (e.g. vocational training, transportation discounts). Factors affecting access included the accessibility of the application process, disability assessment procedures, awareness and the perceived utility of programmes, and attitudes on disability and social protection.
Fabrication and properties of Co:MgAl2O4 transparent ceramics for a saturable absorber from coprecipitated nanopowder
Authors: Liu Qiang , Su Sha , Hu Zewang , Chen Xiaopu , Xie Tengfei , Yang Zhaoxiang , Pan Hongming , Liu Xin , Li Jiang
Published: January 2019

The 0.05 at.% Co:MgAl2O4 precursor was synthesized by the coprecipitation method from a mixed solution of magnesium, aluminum, and cobalt nitrates using ammonium carbonate as the precipitant. 0.05 at.% Co:MgAl2O4 transparent ceramics were successfully obtained via vacuum sintering and hot isostatic pressing (HIP) of 0.05 at.% Co:MgAl2O4 nanopowder calcined at 1100°C for 4 hours. The properties of powder and ceramics were comprehensively investigated. X‐ray diffraction (XRD) results showed that Co:MgAl2O4 nanopowder had a pure spinel phase. Also, the in‐line transmittances of the HIP posttreated Co:MgAl2O4 ceramics with the thickness of 1.2 mm were 82% at 400 nm and 84.7% at 900 nm. The average grain sizes of 0.05 at.% Co:MgAl2O4 ceramics before and after the HIP posttreatment were 11 and 28 μm, respectively. The calculated ground state absorption cross section of 0.05 at.% Co:MgAl2O4 ceramics was 2.9 × 10−19 cm2, indicating that this ceramics is a promising material applied as a saturable absorber for passive laser Q‐switches in the 1.3‐1.7 μm domain.
Thermal expansion performance and intrinsic lattice thermal conductivity of ferroelastic RETaO4 ceramics
Authors: Chen Lin , Hu Mingyu , Wu Peng , Feng Jing
Published: January 2019

Ferroelastic RETaO4 ceramics are promising thermal barrier coatings (TBCs) because of their attractive thermomechanical properties. The influence of crystal structure distortion degree on thermomechanical properties of RETaO4 is estimated in this work. The relationship between Young's modulus and TECs is determined. The highest TECs (10.7 × 10−6 K−1, 1200°C) of RETaO4 are detected in ErTaO4 ceramics and are ascribed to its small Young's modulus and low Debye temperature. The intrinsic lattice thermal conductivity (3.94‐1.26 W m−1 K−1, 100‐900°C) of RETaO4 deceases with increasing of temperature due to an elimination in thermal radiation effects. The theoretical minimum thermal conductivity (1.00 W m−1 K−1) of RETaO4 indicates that the experimental value is able to be reduced further. We have delved deeply into the thermomechanical properties of ferroelastic RETaO4 ceramics and have emphasized their high‐temperature applications as TBCs.