bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Epidemiology and outcomes of dengue in kidney transplant recipients: A 20‐year retrospective analysis and comparative literature review
Authors: Pinsai Subencha , Kiertiburanakul Sasisopin , Watcharananan Siriorn P. , Kantachuvessiri Surasak , Boongird Sarinya , Bruminhent Jackrapong
Published: December 2018

Background

Kidney transplant (KT) recipients in dengue‐endemic areas are at risk of exposure. We investigated the epidemiology and outcomes from dengue inKTrecipients at our transplant center and conducted a literature review.

Materials and methods

We conducted a 20‐year retrospective study ofKTrecipients who were diagnosed with laboratory‐confirmed dengue from January 1997 to September 2017 according to the 2009 World Health Organization (WHO) classification. We analyzed clinical characteristics and treatment outcomes.

Results

There were 13 (0.7%) dengue cases among 1917KTrecipients with a median age of 39 years (interquartile ranges [IQR], 22‐46); 54% were males. Cases occurred with a median onset of 24 months (IQR, 6‐122) afterKT. Dengue was diagnosed via dengueNS1 antigen (85%), IgM antibodies (38.5%), orRT‐PCR(15.4%). Patients were classified as having dengue without warning sign (30.8%), with warning sign (53.8%), or severe dengue (15.4%). All patients resolved without complications, except one had hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis. Ten (76.9%) patients experiencedeGFRreduction with a median of 13.7 mL/min/1.73 m2(IQR, 8.3‐20.5); eight (80%) had a full allograft function recovery.

Conclusions

Dengue inKTrecipients in endemic areas is uncommon. Although a transient decline in allograft function can occur, the overall clinical and allograft outcomes seem to be favorable.
Primary cutaneous vs secondary cutaneous follicular lymphomas: A comparative study focused on BCL2, CD10, and t(14;18) expression
Authors: Servitje Octavio , Climent Fina , Colomo Lluis , Ruiz Nuria , García‐Herrera Adriana , Gallardo Fernando , Mercadal Santiago , Pomares Helena , Muniesa Cristina , Martin‐Callizo Clara , Marcoval Joaquim , Rovira Roger , Estrach Teresa , Pujol Ramon M.
Published: December 2018

Background

Primary cutaneous follicular center‐cell lymphoma (PCFCL) is one of the most common types of cutaneous B‐cell lymphoma. Differences in immunohistochemical expression of BCL2 and CD10 antigens along with the presence of t(14:18) translocation in neoplastic cells have been postulated as relevant clues in differentiating PCFCL from cutaneous lesions secondary to a systemic follicular lymphoma (SCFL). The aim of this study is to evaluate the significance and usefulness of these parameters in a large series of patients.

Methods

Patients with PCFCL and SCFL diagnosed at three university hospitals in Barcelona, from 2000 to 2015 were reviewed. Clinical, histopathological, immunophenotypical, genetic, and outcome parameters were analyzed.

Results

Eighty‐one cases (59 PCFCL and 22 SCFL) were included. There were no significant differences between PCFCL and SCFL cases regarding clinical presentation, site of involvement, or predominant type of skin lesions. Most patients in both groups showed positivity for BCL2 and CD10, but strong expression of BCL2 and CD10 was associated with SCFL cases. Although more frequent in SCFL, a small proportion of PCFCL cases also showed the t(14:18) on FISH analysis.

Conclusion

The intensity of BCL2 expression was found to be the single most valuable clue in differentiating PCFCL from SCFL cases on histopathological grounds.
Imaging in blunt thoracic trauma: The importance of clinical correlation
Authors: Luis Sushil A. , Anavekar Nandan S. , Spittell Peter C. , Chandrasekaran Krishnaswamy
Published: December 2018

We present the case of a 26‐year‐old female restrained front‐seat passenger who presents following a motor vehicle accident, with CT angiogram features suggestive of possible acute aortic injury. However, clinical features including relative hemodynamic stability and absence of typical symptoms were discordant with these imaging findings. This case illustrates that even with ECG‐gating, CT angiogram artifact mimicking acute aortic injury may still occur. Careful evaluation and clinical correlation is of vital importance, both to ensure acute aortic injury is not missed and that patients are not erroneously sent for aortic surgery when there is no aortic injury. Careful clinical evaluation must be combined with imaging in all cases of suspected aortic trauma, and at times multimodality imaging is indicated to direct the decision making strategy.
Early clinical predictors of long‐term morbidity in major depressive disorder
Authors: Serra Giulia , Koukopoulos Athanasios , De Chiara Lavinia , Koukopoulos Alexia E. , Sani Gabriele , Tondo Leonardo , Girardi Paolo , Reginaldi Daniela , Baldessarini Ross J.
Published: December 2018

Aims

To identify early clinical factors predictive of later morbidity in major depressive disorder (MDD).

Methods

We analysed factors associated with long‐term depressive morbidity (%‐time ill) between a first‐lifetime major depressive episode and last follow‐up of 116 adults diagnosed with DSM‐IV major depressive disorder. Bivariate comparisons were followed by multivariable linear regression modelling.

Results

Three factors were independently associated with an average of 25%‐time‐depressed over 17 years at risk: (a) agitated‐mixed, or psychotic features in initial major depressive episodes, (b) anxiety syndromes prior to a first‐lifetime major depressive episode, and (c) anxiety symptoms in childhood.

Conclusion

Early anxiety symptoms and syndromes and agitated‐mixed or psychotic initial depressive episodes predicted more long‐term depressive morbidity in MDD.
Strategies to decrease social jetlag: Reducing evening blue light advances sleep and melatonin
Authors: Zerbini Giulia , Kantermann Thomas , Merrow Martha
Published: December 2018

The timing of sleep is under the control of the circadian clock, which uses light to entrain to the external light‐dark cycle. A combination of genetic, physiological and environmental factors produces individual differences in chronotype (entrained phase as manifest in sleep timing). A mismatch between circadian and societal (e.g., work) clocks leads to a condition called social jetlag, which is characterized by changing sleep times over work and free days and accumulation of sleep debt. Social jetlag, which is prevalent in late chronotypes, has been related to several health issues. One way to reduce social jetlag would be to advance the circadian clock via modifications of the light environment. We thus performed two intervention field studies to describe methods for decreasing social jetlag. One study decreased evening light exposure (via blue‐light‐blocking glasses) and the other used increased morning light (via the use of curtains). We measured behaviour as well as melatonin; the latter in order to validate that behaviour was consistent with this neuroendocrinological phase marker of the circadian clock. We found that a decrease in evening blue light exposure led to an advance in melatonin and sleep onset on workdays. Increased morning light exposure advanced neither melatonin secretion nor sleep timing. Neither protocol led to a significant change in social jetlag. Despite this, our findings show that controlling light exposure at home can be effective in advancing melatonin secretion and sleep, thereby helping late chronotypes to better cope with early social schedules.
Megapanorpa, a new genus with a single anal horn in males from Oriental China (Mecoptera: Panorpidae)
Authors: Wang Ji‐Shen , Hua Bao‐Zhen
Published: December 2018

A new genus of Panorpidae, Megapanorpa gen. nov., is erected for five new species, Megapanorpa grandis sp. nov. (type species), M. absens sp. nov., M. gaokaii sp. nov., M. jiangorum sp. nov. and M. wanghongjiani sp. nov. This genus is similar to Cerapanorpa Gao et al., 2016 in a single anal horn on the sixth tergum of male, but can be differentiated from the latter by the following characters: the seventh abdominal segment of male is constricted and stalk‐like at base, the subgenital plate of female with a pair of lateral plates, and the medigynium of female with a concealed axis. Keys to genera of Panorpidae and species of Megapanorpa gen. nov. are presented. The morphology and function of anal horns in different genera and species have been discussed.
Effects of Self‐Discrepancy and Self‐Schema on Young Women's Body Image and Self‐Esteem after Media Image Exposure
Authors: Yu Ui‐Jeen , Jung Jaehee
Published: December 2018

The purpose of this study was to examine how self‐discrepancy and self‐schema influence the effects of exposure to thin versus nonidealized model images on young women's body dissatisfaction, body anxiety, and self‐esteem as an antecedent and moderator. Female college students at a Midwestern university (n = 380) responded to a web‐based survey with stimuli that consisted of thin, nonidealized, and no model images in fashion ads. Results indicated appearance self‐discrepancy and self‐evaluative schema in appearance augmented body dissatisfaction and body anxiety, and decreased self‐esteem, whereas motivational schema in appearance reduced body anxiety and improved self‐esteem. There were no differences in body dissatisfaction, body anxiety, and self‐esteem from these three model stimuli. However, participants with higher appearance self‐discrepancy had greater body dissatisfaction and body anxiety when exposed to thin‐idealized model images rather than nonidealized model images. Self‐evaluative and motivational schema in appearance did not play a moderating role on the effects of exposure to thin versus nonidealized model images on body dissatisfaction, body anxiety, and self‐esteem. Appearance self‐discrepancy provides better insights for the effects of media on body image and self‐esteem than appearance self‐schema as a moderator.
Tamoxifen use correlates with increased risk of hip fractures in older women with breast cancer: A case–control study in Taiwan
Authors: Hung Shih‐Chang , Liao Kuan‐Fu , Hung Hung‐Chang , Lin Cheng‐Li , Lee Po‐Chang , Hung Shih‐Jung , Lai Shih‐Wei
Published: December 2018

Aim

This study aimed to evaluate the association between tamoxifen use and hip fractures in older women with breast cancer in Taiwan.

Methods

We carried out a retrospective nationwide case–control study using the database of the Taiwan National Health Insurance Program. A total of 762 female patients with breast cancer aged ≥65 years newly diagnosed with hip fractures from 2000 to 2011 were identified for inclusion in the study. Additionally, 7620 female patients with breast cancer aged ≥65 years without hip fractures were randomly selected as controls. Patients were defined as having used tamoxifen if they had an existing prescription for tamoxifen before the index date. Patients were defined as having never used tamoxifen if they had never been given a prescription for tamoxifen before the index date. We used an unconditional logistic regression model to calculate the odds ratio and 95% confidence interval for the association between tamoxifen use and risk of hip fractures.

Results

After adjustment for confounding variables, compared with patients who did not use tamoxifen, the adjusted odds ratio of hip fracture was 2.29 for those who had used tamoxifen (95% confidence interval 1.92, 2.72). Furthermore, adjusted odds ratios were 2.74 (95% confidence interval 2.19, 3.42) among patients with a cumulative duration of tamoxifen use of >3 years.

Conclusion

Tamoxifen use is associated with increased risk of hip fractures among older women with breast cancer in Taiwan. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2019; 19: 56–60.
Effect of sonic versus manual supervised toothbrushing on both clinical and biochemical profiles of patients with desquamative gingivitis associated with oral lichen planus: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Bianco Laura , Romano Federica , Maggiora Marina , Bongiovanni Loretta , Guzzi Nicoletta , Curmei Elena , Arduino Paolo Giacomo , Aimetti Mario
Published: December 2018

Objectives

The aim of this randomized, parallel‐design, clinical trial was to investigate the effectiveness of an intensive plaque control programme with sonic versus manual toothbrushing on clinical outcomes and gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) levels of matrix metalloproteinases (MMP) in desquamative gingivitis (DG) patients.

Methods

A total of 32 patients affected by DG secondary to oral lichen planus (OLP) were consecutively recruited and randomly assigned to a test (n = 16) and control (n = 16) group. Both groups were enrolled in an intensive control programme comprising supragingival scaling and polishing, and brush‐specific instructions for a period of 8 weeks. The treatment of interest (test) was the use of a sonic‐powered toothbrush, and the standard treatment (control) was the utilization of a soft‐bristle manual toothbrush for twice‐daily home oral hygiene procedures. Periodontal parameters, patient‐centred outcomes, MMP‐1 and MMP‐9 GCF levels were evaluated at baseline and 8 weeks after starting the programme.

Results

The plaque control programme resulted in statistically significant reduction in periodontal parameters with consequent improvement in the clinical features, painful symptoms and severity of DG lesions in both groups (all P < 0.001). When a sonic toothbrush was used, there was a more significant decrease in clinical indices, mucosal disease scores and GCF levels of MMP‐1 and MMP‐9.

Conclusions

This clinical trial reported the effectiveness of a combined protocol based on professional oral hygiene and supervised toothbrushing in OLP patients with DG. The daily use of a sonic toothbrush would seem to perform better in the short term.
CuO improved (Sn,Sb)O2 ceramic anodes for electrochemical advanced oxidation processes
Authors: Sánchez‐Rivera María‐José , Giner‐Sanz Juan José , Pérez‐Herranz Valentín , Mestre Sergio
Published: December 2018

Antimony‐doped tin oxide electrodes with CuO as sintering aid are presented as an economical alternative to metal‐based electrodes, intended for the electrooxidation process of emerging and recalcitrant organic contaminants in wastewaters. The CuO proportion has been optimized to obtain densified electrodes with a mild thermal cycle (Tmax = 1200°C). One of the manufactured electrodes (97.8 mol.% of SnO2, 1.0 mol.% of Sb2O3, and 1.2 mol.% of CuO) was selected for electrochemical characterization from a physical and morphological analysis. The electrochemical behavior of the selected electrode showed that the addition of CuO as sintering aid widens the electrochemical window and increases the electrode “inactivity”, with respect to an (Sn, Sb)O2 electrode synthesized in the same conditions. In return, the (Sn,Sb,Cu)O2 electrode presents a significantly lower electrochemical rugosity factor. Moreover, the addition of CuO does not change the oxygen evolution reaction mechanism, but it modifies the kinetic parameters, leading to a larger accumulation of hydroxyl radicals. Consequently, the addition of CuO as sintering aid significantly improves the electrochemical properties of the electrode as an electrochemical advanced oxidation process anode with respect to the (Sn,Sb)O2 electrode, at the expense of worsening its electrochemical roughness factor. The results of the electrochemical characterization were confirmed by Norfloxacin degradation tests.
Dense phase carbon dioxide treatment of tomato juice: effect on physico‐chemical properties, phenolic composition, lycopene isomerisation and in vitro bioaccessibility
Authors: Zhao Wenting , Sun Yeting , Ma Yue , Zhao Xiaoyan
Published: December 2018

The effect of dense phase carbon dioxide (DP‐CO2) technology on tomato juice qualities was investigated. Results showed that DP‐CO2 treatment induced a significant decrease in pH and an increase in titratable acid. Flavour profile and apparent viscosity were more close to the control (untreated) as compared to the heat‐treated (95 °C for 20 min). Consumer acceptance test indicated that DP‐CO2 juices were more liked than the heat‐treated in flavour, taste and overall acceptability. DP‐CO2 treatments at 30 MPa for 40 and 60 min had positive effects on the content of phenolic compounds, including myricinic acid, ferulic acid, naringin and chlorogenic acid. A significant increase in the relative content of sum cis‐isomers was observed after DP‐CO2 treatment at 20 MPa. The in vitro lycopene bioaccessibility increased significantly after treatment at 20 MPa for 20, 40, 60 min as compared to the control and heat‐treated.
Co‐products of beef processing enhance non‐haem iron absorption in an in vitro digestion/caco‐2 cell model
Authors: O'Flaherty Elisabeth A. A. , Tsermoula Paraskevi , O'Neill Eileen E. , O'Brien Nora M.
Published: December 2018

Beef processing produces high volumes of protein rich, low value, ‘waste’ co‐products such as offal. Beef improves uptake of low bioavailable non‐haem iron (found in vegetables, fortificants, supplements) and this effect is dubbed the ‘meat‐factor’, although the underlying mechanism is not fully understood. Here, we investigate whether bovine co‐products (kidney, lung, heart) not previously studied share this enhancing potential. This was determined by coupled in vitro digestion of co‐products and subsequent caco‐2 cell ferritin formation (an intracellular iron storage protein). In this study we show that bovine co‐products significantly increase caco‐2 cells’ response to non‐haem iron from infant rice cereal. The presence of these co‐products, (kidney, lung and heart), increased relative uptake (by 207.13%, 171.21%, 265.28%, respectively), to a greater extent than beef (30.23%). Our findings present a novel function for co‐products of beef processing that may have potential as food ingredients to improve non‐haem iron bioavailability, thus adding value.
The long‐term effect of previous dental treatment under general anaesthesia on children's dental fear and anxiety
Authors: Aldossari Ghadah S. , Aldosari Alanoud A. , Alasmari Amirah A. , Aldakheel Rwan M. , Al‐Natsha Reem R. , Aldossary Mohammed S.
Published: December 2018

Background

Dental treatment under general anaesthesia (DGA) is deemed to contribute to children's dental fear and anxiety (DFA), both in the short term and long term.

Objective

To compare DFA between children who had previous DGA and those who did not.

Methods

A cross‐sectional survey included 5‐ to 12‐year‐old children who had undergone DGA (n = 43) and a control group who had not (n = 55). Questionnaires were completed by parents regarding sociodemographic and dental profiles. Children's Fear Survey Schedule‐Dental Subscale (CFSS‐DS) and the Modified Child Dental Anxiety Scale (faces) (MCDASf) were completed by children.

Results

The mean age of the control group and the DGA group was 9.5 ± 1.7 and 8.8 ± 1.5 years old, respectively (P > 0.05). The time passed since DGA was experienced ranged between 1.2 and 6.9 years ago (mean: 4.2 ± 1.1 years). The mean CFSS‐DS and MCDASf scores for the DGA group (34.3 and 20.4, respectively) were significantly greater when compared to the control group (23.6 and 12.7, respectively) (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Children who experienced DGA are a high‐risk group for DFA several years after the procedure. The DGA status could be used for identifying anxious children to promote better behaviour management.
Induction of migration of periodontal ligament cells by selective regulation of integrin subunits
Authors: Kawamura Mari , Yamamoto Tadashi , Yamashiro Keisuke , Kochi Shinsuke , Yoshihara‐Hirata Chiaki , Ideguchi Hidetaka , Aoyagi Hiroaki , Omori Kazuhiro , Takashiba Shogo
Published: December 2018

The recruitment of tissue‐resident stem cells is important for wound regeneration. Periodontal ligament cells (PDL cells) are heterogeneous cell populations with stemness features that migrate into wound sites to regenerate periodontal fibres and neighbouring hard tissues. Cell migration is regulated by the local microenvironment, coordinated by growth factors and the extracellular matrix (ECM). Integrin‐mediated cell adhesion to the ECM provides essential signals for migration. We hypothesized that PDL cell migration could be enhanced by selective expression of integrins. The migration of primary cultured PDL cells was induced by platelet‐derived growth factor‐BB (PDGF‐BB). The effects of blocking specific integrins on migration and ECM adhesion were investigated based on the integrin expression profiles observed during migration. Up‐regulation of integrins α3, α5, and fibronectin was identified at distinct localizations in migrating PDL cells. Treatment with anti‐integrin α5 antibodies inhibited PDL cell migration. Treatment with anti‐integrin α3, α3‐blocking peptide, and α3 siRNA significantly enhanced cell migration, comparable to treatment with PDGF‐BB. Furthermore, integrin α3 inhibition preferentially enhanced adhesion to fibronectin via integrin α5. These findings indicate that PDL cell migration is reciprocally regulated by integrin α3‐mediated inhibition and α5‐mediated promotion. Thus, targeting integrin expression is a possible therapeutic strategy for periodontal regeneration.
Adverse events identified by the global trigger tool at a university hospital: A retrospective medical record review
Authors: Hu Qiaozhi , Wu Bin , Zhan Mei , Jia Weiguo , Huang Yimei , Xu Ting
Published: December 2018

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to describe the level, preventability and categories of adverse events (AEs) in Chinese geriatric patients identified by medical record review using the Global Trigger Tool. The applicability of the GTT was also assessed to explore possible modifications for trigger tools.

Methods

The study was conducted at a 4300‐bed tertiary teaching hospital. Twenty randomly‐selected medical records for patients over 60 were reviewed every 2 weeks from January 1 2015 to December 31st, 2015. We studied 480 medical records in total. Two trained specialists reviewed the presence of AEs using 43 triggers, and a physician reviewed and validated the findings. The outcome measures included the number of AEs per 1000 patient days, AEs per 100 admissions, the percentage of entries with at least 1 AE and AE categorisation. Also, we carried out a descriptive analysis of the suspected factors of AEs, such as age, gender, length of stay, surgery.

Results

A total of 610 AEs were detected in the 480 medical records reviewed, corresponding to 127 injuries per 100 admissions. The number of AEs per 1000 patient days was 22.43. AEs occurred at least once in 329 (68.54%) patients. The rate of care harms ranked highest of all AEs, followed by the rate of medication harms and surgical harms. Patients with a more extended hospital stay or surgery was more likely to experience AEs. However, there was a negative correlation between age and the rate of AEs.

Conclusion

The Global Trigger Tool was a useful method for detecting the characteristics of AEs in geriatric patients in a Chinese tertiary teaching hospital. To improve patients’ safety, this tool should be incorporated into routine screening systems.
A Comparison of Strategies for Smoothing Parameter Selection for Mixed‐Format Tests Under the Random Groups Design
Authors: Liu Chunyan , Kolen Michael J.
Published: December 2018

Smoothing techniques are designed to improve the accuracy of equating functions. The main purpose of this study is to compare seven model selection strategies for choosing the smoothing parameter (C) for polynomial loglinear presmoothing and one procedure for model selection in cubic spline postsmoothing for mixed‐format pseudo tests under the random groups design. These model selection strategies were compared for four sample sizes (500, 1,000, 2,000, and 3,000) and two content areas (Advanced Placement [AP] Biology and AP Environmental Science). For polynomial loglinear presmoothing, the Akaike information criterion (AIC) was the only statistic that reduced both random equating error and total equating error in all investigated conditions. Cubic spline postsmoothing tended to produce more accurate results than any of the model selection strategies in polynomial loglinear smoothing.
Calculating Conditional Reliability for Dynamic Measurement Model Capacity Estimates
Authors: McNeish Daniel , Dumas Denis
Published: December 2018

Dynamic measurement modeling (DMM) is a recent framework for measuring developing constructs whose manifestation occurs after an assessment is administered (e.g., learning capacity). Empirical studies have suggested that DMM may improve consequential validity of test scores because DMM learning capacity estimates were shown to be much less related to demographic factors like examinees’ socioeconomic status compared to traditional single‐administration item response theory (IRT)–based estimates. Though promotion of DMM has hinged on improved validity, no methods for computing reliability (a prerequisite for validity) have been advanced and DMM is sufficiently different from classical test theory (CTT) and IRT that known methods cannot be directly imported. This article advances one method for computing conditional reliability for DMM so that precision of the estimates can be assessed.
Amino acid changes in the capsid protein of a reassortant betanodavirus strain: Effect on viral replication in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Souto Sandra , Olveira José G. , García‐Rosado Esther , Dopazo Carlos P. , Bandín Isabel
Published: December 2018

Betanodavirus reassortant strains (RGNNV/SJNNV) isolated from Senegalese sole harbour an SJNNV capsid featuring several changes with respect to the SJNNV‐type strain, sharing three hallmark substitutions. Here, we have employed recombinant strains harbouring mutations in these positions (r20 and r20 + 247 + 270) and have demonstrated that the three substitutions affect different steps of the viral replication process. Adsorption ability and efficiency of viral attachment were only affected by substitutions in the C‐terminal side of the capsid. However, the concurrent mutation in the N‐terminal side seems to slightly decrease these properties, suggesting that this region could also be involved in viral binding. Differences in the intracellular and extracellular production of the mutant strains suggest that both the C‐terminal and N‐terminal regions of the capsid protein may be involved in the particle budding. Furthermore, viral replication in sole brain tissue of the mutant strains, and especially double‐ and triple‐mutant strains, is clearly delayed with respect to the wt strain. These data support previous findings indicating that the C‐terminal side plays a role in virulence because of a slower spread in the fish host brain and suggest that the concurrent participation of the N‐terminal side is also important for viral replication in vivo.
DIVIDEND POLICY AND STOCK ACQUISITION ANNOUNCEMENT RETURNS: A TEST OF ASYMMETRIC INFORMATION THEORY
Authors: Turki Aymen
Published: December 2018

This study examines 711 U.S. stock‐based acquisitions announced between 1985 and 2013 to analyze the relation between the acquirer's dividend policy and its stock returns when the acquisition is announced. Asymmetric information theory suggests that the lower the level of uncertainty about the acquirer's value, the smaller the acquirer's price drop when a stock‐based acquisition is announced. In support of this theoretical prediction, the current study identifies less negative acquirer stock returns around the announcement of stock acquisitions initiated by dividend‐paying firms compared with those initiated by non‐dividend‐paying firms.
FACTOR CROWDING AND LIQUIDITY EXHAUSTION
Authors: Marks Joseph M. , Shang Chenguang
Published: December 2018

Well‐known anomalies and stable patterns in equity returns are widely employed to guide stock selection. The use of overlapping multifactor models built on these patterns induces correlated trade across investors. A stock with a strong signal from a parsimonious multifactor stock selection model exhibits changes in trade activity, net order imbalances, lower volatility, lower liquidity level, and changes in liquidity comovement consistent with correlated trade. These results illustrate that correlated trading among investors can affect the liquidity and risk of the securities they trade, and imply that measures of portfolio liquidity risk that ignore these changes can understate risk.
Intra‐abdominal hemorrhage following 739 consecutive pancreaticoduodenectomy: Risk factors and treatments
Authors: Lu Jian‐Wen , Ding Hong‐Fan , Wu Xiao‐Ning , Liu Xue‐Min , Wang Bo , Wu Zheng , Lv Yi , Zhang Xu‐Feng
Published: December 2018

Background and Aim

Post‐pancreaticoduodenectomy hemorrhage (PPH) is a potentially lethal complication. The objective of this study was to explore the risk factors of PPH and to evaluate the treatment options.

Methods

Clinical data of 739 consecutive patients undergoing pancreaticoduodenectomy between 2009 and 2017 were collected from a prospectively maintained database. Univariate and multivariate analysis was performed by logistic regression model to evaluate potential risk factors associated with early and late PPH.

Results

The morbidity of PPH was 8.7% (64/739), while the mortality was 12.5% (8/64). Twenty‐two (34.4%) patients developed PPH within postoperative day 1 (early PPH) whereas 42 (65.6%) patients after postoperative day 1 (late PPH). No significant risk factor was identified associated with early PPH, whereas pancreatic duct diameter < 0.4 cm, and intra‐abdominal complications, such as pancreatic fistula, intra‐abdominal abscess, and delayed gastric emptying, were independently correlated with late PPH. There were 10 (15.6%) grade A, 28 (43.8%) grade B, and 26 (40.6%) grade C bleedings. The bleeding sites were verified by endoscopy, angiography, and/or exploratory laparotomy in 23 of 54 (42.6%) patients with grade B or C hemorrhage. Seven out of nine (78%) patients with arterial bleeding were cured by angiography and embolization, while 10 of 11 (90.9%) patients with anastomotic, venous, or retroperitoneum bleeding were rescued by laparotomy. Ten patients with grade A and 22 patients with grade B or C hemorrhage were treated successfully by blood transfusion and hemostatic medications.

Conclusions

Hemorrhage following pancreaticoduodenectomy is a common and lethal complication. Treatment strategies should be tailored according to different etiologies.
Case of uterine rupture after multiple intrauterine operations and uterine artery embolization
Authors: Ando Miho , Goto Maki , Matsuoka Sakiko , To Yoko , Eguchi Fuyuki , Tsujioka Hiroshi
Published: December 2018

Uterine rupture is rare but may result in both maternal and fetal death. The factors involved in such deaths depend on each case, but uterine artery embolization (UAE), the common treatment for hemorrhage, is possibly one factor. UAE may be related to uterine rupture or placenta accreta, but few data exist regarding UAE and uterine rupture. Here, we present a case of uterine rupture associated with placenta accreta that occurred after UAE. The case is a 35‐year‐old woman who became pregnant after undergoing UAE because of treatment for placental polyps twice. She underwent emergency cesarean delivery for uterine rupture. At the same time, she underwent hysterectomy because of placenta accreta. The uterus ruptured at the location where the polyp had emerged previously. Therefore, we present a case where UAE, uterine rupture and placenta accreta are possibly associated, and highlight the need for caution when performing UAE multiple times.
Standing in my customer's shoes: Effects of customer‐oriented perspective taking on proactive service performance
Authors: Huo Yuanyuan , Chen Ziguang , Lam Wing , Woods Stephen A.
Published: December 2018

We develop a theoretical framework that delineates the process by which customer‐oriented perspective taking contributes to employees’ proactive service performance. Drawing from motivated information processing and proactivity perspectives, the model hypothesizes that employees’ customer‐oriented perspective taking enhances their role breadth self‐efficacy (RBSE), which in turn enhances proactive customer service performance and proactive complaint‐handling performance. A three‐wave, time‐lagged study, involving 145 frontline employees and their immediate supervisors in the Chinese hospitality industry, tests the research model. The results of structural equation modelling show taking customers’ perspectives results in a high level of RBSE. This relationship grows stronger if employees exhibit a strongly proactive personality. A high level of RBSE also mediates the interactive effects of customer‐oriented perspective taking and proactive personality on proactive customer service performance and proactive complaint‐handling performance. These findings provide insights for research on perspective taking, RBSE, and proactive service performance.

Practitioner points

Taking customers’ perspectives results in a more satisfactory service encounter and significantly enhances employees’ service performance.

Organizations should work to increase their employees’ customer‐oriented perspective taking capabilities.

Service organizations could use intervening mechanisms in the service marketing process to help employees enhance their confidence in proactively expanding their roles.
On the voluntary provision of “weakest‐link” public goods: The case of private information
Authors: Barbieri Stefano , Malueg David A.
Published: December 2018

We characterize equilibria in a private‐provision public‐good game where individuals are allowed arbitrary contribution levels and the level of the public good equals the least contribution made by an individual. Equilibrium comparative statics are derived for the interim Pareto‐dominant equilibrium. First, improvements in the cost distribution of even only one player benefit all. Second, even with such “weakest‐link” public goods, for which greater similarity of preferences would seem to facilitate coordination, decreased heterogeneity can actually decrease payoffs. Indeed, increasing the riskiness of cost distributions has an ambiguous effect on welfare. Two mechanisms are provided for improving equilibrium payoffs: Technology transfer and cheap‐talk communication. While substantial welfare gains are possible, examples show that (a) technology transfer may be futile if a “regularity” condition is not satisfied and (b) cheap talk may be useless if the language for communication is not sufficiently rich.
Contribution to decision‐making on establishing the maximum water level for Lake Vegoritida
Authors: Doulgeris Charalampos , Argyroudi Anna
Published: December 2018

The water level in Lake Vegoritida, Greece, has undergone great changes over the past decades attributable to severe water abstraction directly from the lake and its catchment, which affected not only the conditions of the natural environment, but also social and economic conditions. The water level of the lake is currently rising, with discussion of an agreeable decision about the desired maximum lake water level becoming a source of conflict among the lake stakeholders. The present study provides a framework for a participatory management plan, with the perspective of engaging all levels of lake stakeholders in the process of deciding and establishing the maximum lake water level. Kolb's learning cycle is used as a methodological vehicle in the proposed process of participatory decision‐making. Its contribution to decision‐making includes (a) identification of lake stakeholders and the issues arising from a potential establishment of a maximum lake water level; and (b) three suggested water level scenarios to facilitate a future constructive discussion directed to establishing a maximum water level in Lake Vegoritida.
Shifts in the food of Nile perch (Lates niloticus) in Lake Victoria
Authors: Agembe Simon , Yongo Edwine , Masese Frank , Njiru James , Manyala Julius , Ojwang William
Published: December 2018

The study investigated diet of Nile perch in Lake Victoria and compared results with past data from the same lake in order to analyse diet shifts over time. Fish samples (2020) were collected by seining and trawling from 2012 to 2016. In overall, Caridina nilotica (59%) was the dominant food item in the diet, while Rastrineobola argentea (5%) contributed the least. The diet of Nile perch of 1 cm was copepods, cladocerans and rotifers. The diet changed to only copepods and cladocerans at 2 cm. The proportion of the relatively large calanoids increased with Nile perch size in 1988/89, comprising between 35 and 80% of the diet of fishes of 3–4 cm. Nile perch of 6–25 cm TL fed more on C. nilotica in 2012/2016, compared to 1988/1989 and 2006/08. Haplochromines were fed on more in 2006/2008 than in 2012/2016 by Nile perch of 6–30 cm TL as fish size increased. The frequencies of occurrence of R. argentea in the diet were highest in 1988/1989, and lowest in 2006/2008, for fish size of up to 30 cm TL. The proportion of Odonata in the diet of size class 16–20 and 21–30 cm TL were highest in 2012/2016 and 1988/1989, respectively. Thus, shifts in Nile perch diet was observed from zooplankton to C. nilotica, then to haplochromines and finally to fish prey as size increased. Nile perch preferred haplochromines with C. nilotica as the substitute food. Cannibalism was observed to have decreased, only being evidenced in Nile perch above 35 cm TL, which could actually have a positive impact on the Nile perch fishery. The information on shifts in diet of Nile perch in Lake Victoria is of considerable ecological importance.
Rachunia cymbiformis, a new genus and species of Gesneriaceae from Thailand
Authors: Middleton D. J. , Khew G. S. , Poopath M. , Möller M. , Puglisi C.
Published: December 2018

Rachunia, a new genus of Gesneriaceae from Thailand, is described with a single species, Rachunia cymbiformis. Its relationship to the rest of subtribe Didymocarpinae is investigated through a phylogenetic study based on Bayesian Inference and Parsimony analyses of nuclear ITS and plastid trnL‐trnF (intron‐spacer) sequences. Morphologically, Rachunia differs from the related genera Codonoboea in the large boat‐shaped bracts and orthocarpic vs plagiocarpic fruit; from Microchirita in the bracts, wiry vs fleshy stem, the campanulate vs tubular corolla and the clavate vs chiritoid stigma, and from Henckelia in the clavate vs chiritoid stigma, large boat‐shaped bracts in the inflorescence, free and imbricate sepals, short and campanulate corolla, clavate stigma, and relatively robust orthocarpic fruit.
A new species of Dischidia (Apocynaceae: Asclepiadoideae) from the limestone hills of southern Thailand
Authors: Kidyoo Manit
Published: December 2018

A new lithophyte growing on karst in southern Thailand, D. thaithongiae Kidyoo is here described and illustrated. Its vegetative and reproductive morphological characters are compared with those of the similar D. kerrii. Both species have slender stems and branches with oblong‐elliptic to oblong‐lanceolate leaves, a ring of long white hairs in the throat of the corolla tube and vestigial staminal corona lobes that are not anchor‐shaped. However, the new species is clearly distinguished by the presence of a corolline corona and the shape of the staminal corona lobes.
A new Hypericum (sect. Drosocarpium, Hypericaceae) from the Cyclades Islands (Greece)
Authors: Trigas Panayiotis
Published: December 2018

Hypericum cycladicum Trigas sp. nov. (Hypericaceae) from the Cyclades Islands (Greece) is described and illustrated. It belongs to H. sect. Drosocarpium and its closest relatives appears to be the Cretan endemic H. trichocaulon and the widespread Mediterranean H. perfoliatum. The new species is currently known from Andros, Paros and Naxos islands, but probably has a wider distribution within the Cyclades island group.
Focus on economy or ecology? A three‐dimensional trade‐off based on ecological carrying capacity in southwest China
Authors: Peng Li , Deng Wei , Zhang Hao , Sun Jian , Xiong Junnan
Published: December 2018

Economic growth and human activities challenge the regional harmony of the economy and environment. Based on an evaluation of ecological carrying capacity (ECC), we have constructed a three‐dimensional trade‐off model for socially harmonious development for the Sichuan and Yunnan regions in southwest China. The results demonstrate that there is a continuous increase in socioeconomic coordination (SEC; slope > 0.23) and a change in the ECC in the study area, characterized by subtle fluctuations from 2000 through 2008. This was primarily due to the loss of resource and environment carrying capacity wiping out the profits of SEC. Significant government aid during the postdisaster reconstruction and more attention being paid to the environment in policy resulted in a faster increase in ECC (slope > 0.38) from 2008 to 2016. Based on this trade‐off model, managers could deeply understand the relationship between resources, the economy, and ecology.

Summary for Managers

Ecological environment protection is increasingly crucial in Sichuan and Yunnan regions as they feel the effects of climate change and human activities.

The three‐dimensional trade‐off model measuring socially coordinated development is a modified multiobjective, decision‐making model.

Based on this trade‐off model, managers could, understand the relationship between resources, the economy, and ecology.

It can help manage our environmental assets and plan ecological conservation, to ensure that the environment maintains its capacity to serve the societal development.
What Drives Output Volatility? The Role of Demographics and Government Size Revisited
Authors: Iseringhausen Martin , Vierke Hauke
Published: December 2018

This paper studies the determinants of output volatility in a panel of 22 OECD countries. In contrast to the existing literature, we avoid ad hoc estimates of volatility based on rolling windows, and we account for possible non‐stationarity. Specifically, output volatility is modelled within an unobserved components model where the volatility series is the outcome of both macroeconomic determinants and a latent integrated process. A Bayesian model selection approach tests for the presence of the non‐stationary component. The results point to demographics and government size as important determinants of macroeconomic (in)stability. A larger share of prime‐age workers is associated with lower output volatility, while higher public expenditure increases volatility.
Physical activity and the human body in the (increasingly smart) built environment
Authors: Ulijaszek S.
Published: December 2018

Physical activity in the built environment of high income countries may be changing faster than at any time prior to the 2000s, with the engagement of social media, smart devices and increasing urban smartness that has come with the Internet of Things. This article describes the most salient features of built environments that have facilitated physical activity between the 1980s and 2000s (most importantly walkability and active transport with bicycles). It goes on to use the anthropological three bodies framework in association with that of forms of capital, to explore how the use of smart devices and increasing incorporation of smartness and performativity into architecture and urban planning since the 2000s might influence physical activity. Smartness and use of smart devices in the built environment should favour increased physical activity through new types of sociality that they facilitate. In turn, engagement with such technologies offers an important opportunity for the empowerment of the individual body–self and the social body towards increased physical activity.
Effects of macrophytes on lake‐water quality across latitudes: a meta‐analysis
Authors: Song Yiluan , Liew Jia Huan , Sim Darren Z. H. , Mowe Maxine A. D. , Mitrovic Simon M. , Tan Hugh T. W. , Yeo Darren C. J.
Published: December 2018

Macrophytes are widely recognized for improving water quality and stabilizing the desirable clear‐water state in lakes. The positive effects of macrophytes on water quality have been noted to be weaker in the (sub)tropics compared to those of temperate regions. We conducted a global meta‐analysis using 47 studies that met our set criteria to assess the overall effects of macrophytes on water quality (measured by phytoplankton chlorophyll a concentration, total nitrogen concentration, total phosphorus concentration, Secchi depth and the trophic state index) and to investigate how these effects correlate with latitude using meta‐regressions. We also examined if the effects of macrophytes on lake‐water quality differ with growth form and study design in (sub)tropical and temperate areas by grouping the data and then comparing the effect sizes. We found that macrophytes significantly reduced phytoplankton chlorophyll a concentration, total nitrogen concentration, total phosphorus concentration, as well as the trophic state index, but they did not have a significant overall effect on Secchi depth. The effects of macrophytes on reducing phytoplankton chlorophyll a concentration, total nitrogen concentration and the trophic state index did not differ with latitude. However, the reduction of total phosphorus concentration was greater at lower latitudes. We showed that at lower latitudes, the positive effects of macrophytes on water quality are similar to or greater than those at higher latitudes, thus challenging the prevailing paradigm of macrophytes being less effective at enhancing lake‐water quality in the (sub)tropics. Furthermore, our data showed that the macrophyte effects vary by growth forms, and the growth forms that positively affect water quality differ between the (sub)tropical and temperate areas. We showed a lack of significant macrophyte effects in surveys within and outside macrophyte stands, suggesting difference in the sensitivities of study designs or possibly weaker effects of macrophytes in lakes compared to experimental settings.
Habitat choice stabilizes metapopulation dynamics by enabling ecological specialization
Authors: Mortier Frederik , Jacob Staffan , Vandegehuchte Martijn L. , Bonte Dries
Published: December 2018

Dispersal is a key trait responsible for the spread of individuals and genes among local populations, thereby generating eco‐evolutionary interactions. Especially in heterogeneous metapopulations, a tight coupling between dispersal, population dynamics and the evolution of local adaptation is expected. In this respect, dispersal should counteract ecological specialization by redistributing locally selected phenotypes (i.e. migration load). Habitat choice following an informed dispersal decision, however, can facilitate the evolution of ecological specialization. How such informed decisions influence metapopulation size and variability is yet to be determined.

By means of individual‐based modelling, we demonstrate that informed decisions about both departure and settlement decouple the evolution of dispersal and that of generalism, selecting for highly dispersive specialists. Choice at settlement is based on information from the entire dispersal range, and therefore decouples dispersal from ecological specialization more effectively than choice at departure, which is only based on local information. Additionally, habitat choice at departure and settlement reduces local and metapopulation variability because of the maintenance of ecological specialization at all levels of dispersal propensity. Our study illustrates the important role of habitat choice for dynamics of spatially structured populations and thus emphasizes the importance of considering that dispersal is often informed.