bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of High‐Efficiency Molecular Adsorbent Recirculating System: Preliminary Report
Authors: Marangoni Roberto , Bellati Giorgio , Castelli Alessandro , Romagnoli Elisabetta
Published: January 2014

Molecular Adsorbent Recirculating System (MARS) is a liver support system widely employed in the treatment of liver failure. The method is normally well tolerated. To develop a liver support system combining high efficiency and tolerability, we modified the MARS albumin circuit with the insertion of double adsorption units in parallel. Four patients have been treated with this modified method (high‐efficiency MARS, HE MARS): two had very high serum bilirubin and two had very high total bile acids. After a single MARS session bilirubin was reduced more with HE MARS than standard MARS (from 27.6 to 52.3% in patient A and from 27.9 to 49.1% in patient B), and bile acid reduction increased from 40 to 59.8% in patient C and from 39.9 to 60% in patient D. The results of this preliminary investigation in only a very small number of patients do support the possibility of developing a liver support system that combines good tolerability and high efficacy.
The segregation of educated youth and dynamic geographies of studentification
Authors: Smith Darren P , Hubbard Phil
Published: January 2014

This paper explores how university students are enmeshed in the trend of increasing sociospatial segregation. The paper charts the unprecedented in‐migration of students into selected towns and cities as part of the expansion of UK higher education in the mid‐1990s, epitomised by single people living in multi‐person shared private rented housing, often alongside established households in socially‐mixed neighbourhoods. It is shown that student populations became more spatially concentrated during mid‐2000s with the development of purpose‐built accommodation, predominantly in the form of gated ‘student‐enclaves’. We argue that these exclusionary, ‘student‐only’ spaces are becoming more widespread due to concurrent trends in the commodification of student housing and studenthood, which are encouraging the formation of ‘new frontiers of student segregation’. The paper ends by discussing these trends, arguing for further research exploring the variegated spatial outcomes of these processes of segregation.
Inference and Association in Children's Early Numerical Estimation
Authors: Sullivan Jessica , Barner David
Published: January 2014

How do children map number words to the numerical magnitudes they represent? Recent work in adults has shown that two distinct mechanisms—structure mapping and associative mapping—connect number words to nonlinguistic numerical representations (Sullivan & Barner, ). This study investigated the development of number word mappings, and the roles of inference and association in children's estimation. Fifty‐eight 5‐ to 7‐year‐olds participated, and results showed that at both ages, children possess strong item‐based associative mappings for numbers up to around six, but rely primarily on structure mapping—an inferential process—for larger quantities. These findings suggest that children rely primarily on an inferential mechanism to construct and deploy mappings between number words and large approximate magnitudes.
Pro‐inflammatory role of natural killer cells in the development of allergic airway disease
Authors: Mathias C. B. , Guernsey L. A. , Zammit D. , Brammer C. , Wu C. A. , Thrall R. S. , Aguila H. L.
Published: January 2014

Background

Natural Killer (NK) cells have been implicated in the development of allergic airway inflammation. However, the in vivo role of NK cells has not been firmly established due to the lack of animal models with selective deficiencies in NK cells.

Objective

To determine the specific contribution of NK cells in a murine model of allergic airway disease (AAD).

Methods

The role of NK cells in AAD was studied using NK‐deficient (NKD) mice, perforin−/− mice, and mice depleted of Ly49A/D/G+ NK cell subsets in an ovalbumin‐induced model of allergic airway disease (OVA‐AAD).

Results

Induction of OVA‐AAD in C57BL/6 wild‐type (WT) mice resulted in the expansion of airway NK cells and the development of pronounced airway eosinophilia. In the absence of NK cells or specific subsets of NK cells, either in NKD mice, or after the depletion of Ly49A/D/G+ NK cells, the development of OVA‐AAD was significantly impaired as seen by decreased airway inflammation and eosinophilia, decreased secretion of the Th2 cytokines IL‐4, IL‐5 and IL‐13 and diminished OVA‐specific antibody production. Furthermore, while OVA‐exposure induced a dramatic expansion of dendritic cells (DCs) in WT mice, their induction was significantly attenuated in NKD mice. Development of OVA‐AAD in perforin−/− mice suggested that the proinflammatory role of NK cells is not dependent on perforin‐mediated cytotoxicity. Lastly, induction of allergic disease by OVA‐specific CD4 T cells from WT but not NK‐depleted or NKD mice in RAG−/− recipients, demonstrates that NK cells are essential for T cell priming.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance

Our data demonstrate that conventional NK cells play an important and distinct role in the development of AAD. The presence of activated NK cells has been noted in patients with asthma. Understanding the mechanisms by which NK cells regulate allergic disease is therefore an important component of treatment approaches.
Sunitinib Produces Neuroprotective Effect Via Inhibiting Nitric Oxide Overproduction
Authors: Cui Wei , Zhang Zai‐Jun , Hu Sheng‐Quan , Mak Shing‐Hung , Xu Da‐Ping , Choi Chung‐Lit , Wang Yu‐Qiang , Tsim Wah‐Keung , Lee Ming‐Yuen , Rong Jian‐Hui , Han Yi‐Fan
Published: January 2014

Background

Sunitinib is an inhibitor of the multiple receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) for cancer therapy. Some sunitinib analogues could prevent neuronal death induced by various neurotoxins. However, the neuroprotective effects of sunitinib have not been reported.

Methods

Cerebellar granule neurons (CGNs) and SH‐SY5Y cells were exposed to low‐potassium and MPP+ challenges, respectively. MTT assay, FDA/PI staining, Hoechst staining, DAF‐FM, colorimetric nitric oxide synthase (NOS) activity assay, and Western blotting were applied to detect cell viability, NO production, NOS activity, and neuronal NOS (nNOS) expression. Short hairpin RNA was used to decrease nNOS expression. In vitro NOS enzyme activity assay was used to determine the direct inhibition of nNOS by sunitinib.

Results

Sunitinib prevented low‐potassium‐induced neuronal apoptosis in CGNs and MPP+‐induced neuronal death in SH‐SY5Y cells. However, PTK787, another RTK inhibitor, failed to decrease neurotoxicity in the same models. Sunitinib reversed the increase in NO levels, NOS activity, and nNOS expression induced by low potassium or MPP+. Knockdown of nNOS expression partially abolished the neuroprotective effects of sunitinib. Moreover, sunitinib directly inhibited nNOS enzyme activity.

Conclusions

Sunitinib exerts its neuroprotective effects by inhibiting NO overproduction, possibly via the inhibition of nNOS activity and the decrease in nNOS expression.
S1 guideline diagnosis and therapy of cutaneous larva migrans (creeping disease)
Authors: Sunderkötter Cord , von Stebut Esther , Schöfer Helmut , Mempel Martin , Reinel Dieter , Wolf Gerd , Meyer Volker , Nast Alexander , Burchard Gerd‐Dieter
Published: January 2014

Guideline objectives

These guidelines aim to enhance patient care by optimizing the diagnosis and treatment of infections due to creeping disease (cutaneous larva migrans) and to raise awareness among doctors of current treatment options.

Methods

S1 guideline, non‐systematic literature search, consensus process using a circular letter.
Ataxia rating scales are age‐dependent in healthy children
Authors: Brandsma Rick , Spits Anne H , Kuiper Marieke J , Lunsing Roelinka J , Burger Huibert , Kremer Hubertus P , Sival Deborah A ,   The Childhood Ataxia and Cerebellar Group
Published: January 2014

Aim

To investigate ataxia rating scales in children for reliability and the effect of age and sex.

Method

Three independent neuropaediatric observers cross‐sectionally scored a set of paediatric ataxia rating scales in a group of 52 healthy children (26 males, 26 females) aged 4 to 16 years (mean age 10y 5mo SD 3y 11mo). The investigated scales involved the commonly applied International Cooperative Ataxia Rating Scale (ICARS), the Scale for Assessment and Rating of Ataxia (SARA), the Brief Ataxia Rating Scale (BARS), and PEG‐board tests. We investigated the interrelatedness between individual ataxia scales, the influence of age and sex, inter‐ and intra‐observer agreement, and test–retest reliability.

Results

Spearman's rank correlations revealed strong correlations between ICARS, SARA BARS, and PEG‐board test (all p<0.001). ICARS, SARA, BARS and PEG‐board test outcomes were age‐dependent until 12.5, 10, 11, and 11.5 years of age respectively. Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) varied between moderate and almost perfect (interobserver agreement: 0.85, 0.72, and 0.69; intraobserver agreement: 0.92, 0.94, and 0.70; and test–retest reliability: 0.95, 0.50, and 0.71; for ICARS, SARA, and BARS respectively). Interobserver variability decreased after the sixth year of life.

Interpretation

In healthy children, ataxia rating scales are reliable, but should include age‐dependent interpretation in children up to 12 years of age. To enable longitudinal interpretation of quantitative ataxia rating scales in children, European paediatric normative values are necessary.
Inferior vena cava parameters predict re‐admission in ischaemic heart failure
Authors: Carbone Federico , Bovio Marta , Rosa Gian Marco , Ferrando Fabio , Scarrone Alberto , Murialdo Giovanni , Quercioli Alessandra , Vuilleumier Nicolas , Mach François , Viazzi Francesca , Montecucco Fabrizio
Published: January 2014

Background

The clinical history of heart failure (HF) is usually characterized by frequent hospitalizations for decompensation. Therefore, several markers of subclinical hemodynamic congestion are under investigation for predicting early rehospitalization. In this field, the potential of ultrasound inferior vena cava (IVC) assessment has been recently investigated in HF but not yet assessed in the different aetiological categories.

Material and methods

Forty‐eight patients admitted for decompensated HF (n = 25 with ischaemic heart disease [IHD] and n = 23 non‐IHD) underwent biochemical examination (including NT‐proBNP), echocardiography and IVC assessment by hand‐carried ultrasound (HCU). During 60‐day follow‐up after discharge, the re‐hospitalization rate for HF was recorded to investigate the predictive power of NT‐proBNP and IVC assessment among the two study groups.

Results

IHD and non‐IHD patients with HF were similar except for gender distribution. During follow‐up, 16·7% of patients were rehospitalized for decompensated HF, with higher prevalence in IHD group (28% vs. 4·3% P = 0·031). IVC assessment at discharge significantly predicted re‐admission in the overall population and in IHD group, whereas NT‐proBNP failed to predict rehospitalization in IHD group. In adjusted hazard ratio, only IVC min and the changes of IVC from admission significantly predicted re‐admission. ROC analysis confirmed the change in IVC min as the best predictor of rehospitalization in patients with IHD.

Conclusion

This pilot study showed a higher early re‐admission rate in patients with HF due to IHD. In addition, the change in IVC min diameter from admission to discharge was the best predictor of re‐admission in patients with IHD.
Model species in evo‐devo: a philosophical perspective
Authors: Bolker Jessica A.
Published: January 2014

A model is a representation of or an analogy for something else; in a biological context, the term often refers to organisms or species that serve as a widely used platform for experimental research. In developmental biology, an extraordinarily detailed understanding of fundamental genes and mechanisms has been built around a few core models including Drosophila, mouse, Caenorhabditis elegans, Arabidopsis, and zebrafish. The use of model species entails a series of epistemological issues and commitments regarding similarity, generalization, and the balance between representation and accessibility. In addition, the power of a given model is highly context‐dependent, and the core models of developmental biology may not suffice for evo‐devo questions. An epistemological perspective can clarify the complementary roles of standard and emerging models in evo‐devo, as well as inform decisions about when new models are needed, and criteria for choosing them.
Choanoflagellate and choanocyte collar‐flagellar systems and the assumption of homology
Authors: Mah Jasmine L. , Christensen‐Dalsgaard Karen K. , Leys Sally P.
Published: January 2014

The similarities between the choanoflagellates and the choanocytes of sponges have been discussed for more than a century yet few studies allow a direct comparison of the two. We reviewed current knowledge of the collar and flagellum and compared their structure and function in the choanoflagellate Monosiga brevicollis and the sponge Spongilla lacustris. Collar microvilli were of similar length and number, but the shape of the collar differed between the two cells. In Monosiga, collars were flared and microvilli were joined by a single band of glycocalyx mid‐way along their length; in Spongilla, collars formed a tube and microvilli were joined by a mesh of glycocalyx. Monosiga flagella beat at least four times faster than those in Spongilla. Flagellar vanes were found in both cell types. In both cells, the flagella and so probably also the vanes maintained moving points of contact with the microvilli, which suggested that collars and flagella were integrated systems rather than independent units. There were fundamental differences in how the collar and flagella interacted, however. In Spongilla, the flagellum bent upon contact with the collar; the flagellar amplitude was fitted to the collar diameter. In Monosiga, the flagellar amplitude was unaffected by the collar; instead the collar diameter appeared fitted to the flagellum. These differences suggest that though choanocytes and choanoflagellates are similar, homology cannot be taken for granted. Similarities in collar‐flagellum systems separated by 600 million years of evolution, whether maintained or convergent, suggest that these form important adaptations for optimizing fluid flow through micro‐scale filters.
When should species richness be energy limited, and how would we know?
Authors: Hurlbert Allen H. , Stegen James C.
Published: January 2014

Energetic constraints are fundamental to ecology and evolution, and empirical relationships between species richness and estimates of available energy (i.e. resources) have led some to suggest that richness is energetically constrained. However, the mechanism linking energy with richness is rarely specified and predictions of secondary patterns consistent with energy‐constrained richness are lacking. Here, we lay out the necessary and sufficient assumptions of a causal relationship linking energy gradients to richness gradients. We then describe an eco‐evolutionary simulation model that combines spatially explicit diversification with trait evolution, resource availability and assemblage‐level carrying capacities. Our model identified patterns in richness and phylogenetic structure expected when a spatial gradient in energy availability determines the number of individuals supported in a given area. A comparison to patterns under alternative scenarios, in which fundamental assumptions behind energetic explanations were violated, revealed patterns that are useful for evaluating the importance of energetic constraints in empirical systems. We use a data set on rockfish (genus Sebastes) from the northeastern Pacific to show how empirical data can be coupled with model predictions to evaluate the role of energetic constraints in generating observed richness gradients.
How do various maize crop models vary in their responses to climate change factors?
Authors: Bassu Simona , Brisson Nadine , Durand Jean‐Louis , Boote Kenneth , Lizaso Jon , Jones James W. , Rosenzweig Cynthia , Ruane Alex C. , Adam Myriam , Baron Christian , Basso Bruno , Biernath Christian , Boogaard Hendrik , Conijn Sjaak , Corbeels Marc , Deryng Delphine , De Sanctis Giacomo , Gayler Sebastian , Grassini Patricio , Hatfield Jerry , Hoek Steven , Izaurralde Cesar , Jongschaap Raymond , Kemanian Armen R. , Kersebaum K. Christian , Kim Soo‐Hyung , Kumar Naresh S. , Makowski David , Müller Christoph , Nendel Claas , Priesack Eckart , Pravia Maria Virginia , Sau Federico , Shcherbak Iurii , Tao Fulu , Teixeira Edmar , Timlin Dennis , Waha Katharina
Published: January 2014

Potential consequences of climate change on crop production can be studied using mechanistic crop simulation models. While a broad variety of maize simulation models exist, it is not known whether different models diverge on grain yield responses to changes in climatic factors, or whether they agree in their general trends related to phenology, growth, and yield. With the goal of analyzing the sensitivity of simulated yields to changes in temperature and atmospheric carbon dioxide concentrations [CO2], we present the largest maize crop model intercomparison to date, including 23 different models. These models were evaluated for four locations representing a wide range of maize production conditions in the world: Lusignan (France), Ames (USA), Rio Verde (Brazil) and Morogoro (Tanzania). While individual models differed considerably in absolute yield simulation at the four sites, an ensemble of a minimum number of models was able to simulate absolute yields accurately at the four sites even with low data for calibration, thus suggesting that using an ensemble of models has merit. Temperature increase had strong negative influence on modeled yield response of roughly −0.5 Mg ha−1 per °C. Doubling [CO2] from 360 to 720 μmol mol−1 increased grain yield by 7.5% on average across models and the sites. That would therefore make temperature the main factor altering maize yields at the end of this century. Furthermore, there was a large uncertainty in the yield response to [CO2] among models. Model responses to temperature and [CO2] did not differ whether models were simulated with low calibration information or, simulated with high level of calibration information.
Governance Delegation Agreements: Shared Sovereignty as a Substitute for Limited Statehood
Authors: Matanock Aila M.
Published: January 2014

Governance delegation agreements—international treaties allowing external actors legal authority within host states for fixed terms—succeed in simple and, under certain conditions, complex state‐building tasks. These deals are well institutionalized and have input legitimacy because ratification requires sufficient domestic support from a ruling coalition. In order to obtain that input legitimacy, however, host states constrain external actors commensurate with their level of statehood: Stronger states delegate less legal authority. This article argues that these constraints, which produce joint rather than complete authority, require external actors to work within state structures rather than substituting for them, and thus make coordination of complex tasks more difficult. A quantitative overview of data on consent‐based peacekeeping missions complements a qualitative analysis focused on comparative case studies in Melanesia and Central America to test the theory. The results support the theory and suggest that these deals hold promise particularly for accomplishing complex tasks in especially weak states.
State‐Building and the European Union's Fight against Corruption in the Southern Caucasus: Why Legitimacy Matters
Authors: Börzel Tanja A. , van Hüllen Vera
Published: January 2014

This article asks under which conditions the state‐building efforts of external actors in areas of limited statehood are likely to be effective. We argue that the legitimacy of the specific norms promoted by external actors among local actors is crucial for their success in strengthening state capacities. International efforts need to resonate with prevalent social norms. To substantiate this argument, we focus on the European Union's (EU) anticorruption programs and their implementation in one of the most corrupt regions in the world, the Southern Caucasus. We show that legitimacy can explain why the EU's fight against corruption helped reduce corruption in Georgia but not in Armenia. In both countries, political elites could selectively use anticorruption programs as an instrument against political opponents, using enhanced state capacities to stabilize the incumbent regime. Only in Georgia, however, was the fight against corruption facilitated by sustained domestic mobilization for anticorruption policies that added pressure on political elites “from below.”
Taking the State (Back) Out? Statehood and the Delivery of Collective Goods
Authors: Lee Melissa M. , Walter‐Drop Gregor , Wiesel John
Published: January 2014

State‐building is a central tenet of many current development efforts. This primacy of the state rests on a global normative script that emphasizes the role of the modern state in providing collective goods and services from security to education to health. We analyze state performance in six dimensions of service delivery in a cross‐sectional sample of more than 150 countries. In addition to exploring the explanatory power of statehood, we examine various control variables and also analyze whether external actors affect the delivery of collective goods and services. The core finding of this article is that there is remarkably little evidence of a consistent relationship between statehood and service delivery. This result casts doubt on the conventional wisdom about the centrality of the state for the provision collective goods and services, and suggests that other factors may explain the observed variation.
Characteristic differences in barrier and hygroscopic properties between normal and cosmetic dry skin. I. Enhanced barrier analysis with sequential tape‐stripping
Authors: Lu N. , Chandar P. , Tempesta D. , Vincent C. , Bajor J. , McGuiness H.
Published: January 2014

Synopsis

Objective

Cosmetic dry skin often has a lower hydration level but a similar apparent barrier function, as measured by transepidermal water loss (TEWL), than that of the normal skin. To investigate the intrinsic difference in barrier property and moisture‐holding ability between the cosmetic dry and normal skin, we developed a new clinical and data analysis procedure based on sequential tape‐stripping with TEWL measurement, coupled with chemical analysis for protein and natural moisturizing factors (NMF) in the stratum corneum.

Methods

A clinical study consisting of 64 healthy Caucasian female subjects with normal and cosmetic dry skin was conducted according to our clinical and data collection protocols. After the baseline visual dryness assessment, 20 tape‐strips were placed and removed on each test site using D‐Squame tapes. TEWL was measured at baseline and after the 5th, 10th, 15th and 20th tape‐strips. All tapes were analysed for protein mass via chemical extraction and the Pierce BCA protein assay, as well as using an infrared densitometry device SquameScan 850A. The stratum corneum thickness and barrier quality (water transport resistance per thickness of the stratum corneum) were decoupled from the apparent barrier function using the TEWL and protein data.

Results

A linear relationship between 1/TEWL and cumulative protein removal was observed for both normal and cosmetic dry skin. However, the slope of the linear relation was significantly steeper for normal skin, and significantly more protein was removed from cosmetic dry skin. The results showed that on average, the barrier quality of the stratum corneum of the normal skin is about 40% higher than that of the dry skin, whereas the stratum corneum of the dry skin is about 30% thicker than that of the normal skin. In addition, the amount of SC removal in sequential tape‐stripping is generally non‐uniform.

Conclusion

Our results demonstrated that there are characteristic differences in the barrier property between normal and cosmetic dry skin. In comparison to the normal skin, the stratum corneum of the cosmetic dry skin is considerably thicker, however, with a lower barrier quality. The results also showed that the amount of the SC removal in sequential tape‐stripping is generally non‐uniform. Therefore, the number of tape strips is not a good indicator for the tape‐stripping depth.
A novel methodology providing insights into removal of biofilm‐mimicking hydrogel from lateral morphological features of the root canal during irrigation procedures
Authors: Macedo R. G. , Robinson J. P. , Verhaagen B. , Walmsley A. D. , Versluis M. , Cooper P. R. , van der Sluis L. W. M.
Published: January 2014

Aim

To introduce and characterize a reproducible hydrogel as a suitable biofilm mimic in endodontic research. To monitor and visualize the removal of hydrogel from a simulated lateral canal and isthmus for the following: I) Ultrasonic‐Activated Irrigation (UAI) with water, ii) UAI with NaOCl and iii) NaOCl without UAI.

Methodology

A rheometer was used to characterize the viscoelastic properties and cohesive strength of the hydrogel for suitability as a biofilm mimic. The removal rate of the hydrogel from a simulated lateral canal or isthmus was measured by high‐speed imaging operating at frame rates from 50 to 30 000 fps.

Results

The hydrogel demonstrated viscoelastic behaviour with mechanical properties comparable to real biofilms. UAI enhanced the cleaning effect of NaOCl in isthmi (P < 0.001) and both NaOCl and water in lateral canals (P < 0.001). A greater depth of cleaning was achieved from an isthmus (P = 0.009) than from a lateral canal with UAI and also at a faster rate for the first 20 s. NaOCl without UAI resulted in a greater depth of hydrogel removal from a lateral canal than an isthmus (P < 0.001). The effect of UAI was reduced when stable bubbles were formed and trapped in the lateral canal. Different removal characteristics were observed in the isthmus and the lateral canal, with initial highly unstable behaviour followed by slower viscous removal inside the isthmus.

Conclusions

The biofilm‐mimicking hydrogel is reproducible, homogenous and can be easily applied and modified. Visualization of its removal from lateral canal anatomy provides insights into the cleaning mechanisms of UAI for a biofilm‐like material. Initial results showed that UAI improves hydrogel removal from the accessory canal anatomy, but the creation of stable bubbles on the hydrogel–liquid interface may reduce the cleaning rate.
Work‐related quality of life of Ugandan healthcare workers
Authors: Opollo J.G. , Gray J. , Spies L.A.
Published: January 2014

Aims

To describe perceived work‐related quality of life of Ugandan healthcare workers. A secondary aim was to seek participant input on ways to improve work environments.

Background

Poor patient outcomes, decreased employee motivation and decisions to leave the organization have been linked to poor work conditions. Interventions to correct healthcare worker shortage in developing countries require information about work quality of life.

Methods

Descriptive cross‐sectional study conducted in health and educational settings in Uganda in July 2011. Participants completed the Biographical Information Scale demographic questionnaire and the validated 24‐item Work‐Related Quality of Life scale.

Results

Sample included 146 healthcare workers employed in various settings. Participants reported poorer quality of work life on the work conditions, control at work and home–work interface subscales. Participants perceived stress at work to be low and experienced higher job career satisfaction. There was a significant relationship between work‐related quality of life, gender and hours worked. Participants' suggestions to improve work life ranged from simple no‐cost suggestions to more complex system level interventions.

Discussion

Work‐related quality of life was low in this convenience sample. Perceived stress at work was lower than expected, but may have been due to nurses' expectations of a normal work assignment. Predominantly women, the participants had significant caregiving responsibilities.

Nursing implications

Nurses must acquire a seat at the table where crucial decisions about nursing and its future are made. By advancing leadership skills, nurses can effectively advocate for organizational changes that address broad factors related to increasing job satisfaction, and retaining and attracting nurses.

Conclusion

Nurses can influence work quality of life individually and collectively by identifying workplace concerns, demanding safe work environments, fostering teamwork and enhancing professional growth.
Effects of Foreign Institutional Ownership on Foreign Bank Lending: Some Evidence for Emerging Markets
Authors: Jiang Liangliang , Zhu Yi
Published: January 2014

Despite the large literature on developed countries, little is known about the interactions between corporate governance, foreign ownership, and foreign bank lending in developing countries. Using data from five Latin American countries from 2001 to 2008, we provide one of the first pieces of evidence of how foreign ownership affects the loan cost of borrowers in emerging markets. We find that in terms of foreign bank lending, the cost of debt financing is significantly higher for firms whose largest shareholder is a foreign institutional one. The results support the hypothesis that because of potential agency conflicts between shareholders and creditors, having block institutional shareholders tend to increase the borrowers’ debt burden. There is further evidence supporting this agency conflict hypothesis as we find that the effects of large institutional shareholders on borrowing costs become larger (smaller) when the conflicts are aggravated (mitigated).
Structural and Thermodynamics Properties of TiC1−xNx–TiO1−xNx Solid Solutions: X‐ray Diffraction and First‐Principles Approaches
Authors: Jiang Bo , Ying Nantao , Wang Qiuyu , Xiao Jiusan , Huang Kai , Hou Jungang , Zhu Hongmin
Published: January 2014

The structural properties and mixing thermodynamic of TiC1−xNx and TiO1−xNx (0 ≤ x ≤ 1) solid solutions have been studied by X‐ray diffraction method and first‐principles calculations. The TiC1−xNx and TiO1−xNx compounds were synthesized via solid‐state reaction and the analysis of XRD patterns show the properties of continuous solid solutions over the whole composition range. Thermodynamic analyses and structural stability studies were performed based on the mixing enthalpies and electronic structures. The mixing enthalpies of TiC1−xNx and TiO1−xNx can be fitted using a second‐degree polynomial with the increasing of supercell. The first‐principles calculations results reveal that the TiO1−xNx shows large number vacancies segregated in TiO‐part. The charge redistributed around Ti vacancy constitutes the main contribution to the stabilization rather than the Ti–Ti bond across the O vacancy through analyzing the electron density difference plots and PDOS . These results provide theoretical basis for the development and application of the TiC1−xNx and TiO1−xNx solid solutions.
Actorness beyond the European Union: Comparing the International Trade Actorness of SADC and ECOWAS
Authors: Hulse Merran
Published: January 2014

Actorness is no longer the preserve of the European Union. Due to their participation in interregional relations, other regional organizations are developing and institutionalizing the requirements of international actorness, but insofar as a comparative framework for systematically comparing and contrasting actorness across different organizations is lacking, it is difficult to predict the likely outcomes of such relations. Taking a comparative regionalisms approach, this article develops a comparative and generalizable framework of actorness. Adding to the extremely limited literature on non‐EU actorness, the model is tested in an analysis of the actorness of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) in the field of international trade negotiations. Despite SADC's stronger identity and presence, it is ECOWAS – having more effective decision‐making and better capabilities – that possesses greater actorness – a fact likely to impact on inter‐regional outcomes.
How to Explain the Transnational Security Governance of the European Union?
Authors: Zwolski Kamil
Published: January 2014

This article argues that empirical developments in international security governance offer untapped opportunities for strengthening intellectual links between European Union (EU) studies and international relations. To uncover these links, the article first demonstrates how the EU has started to address various chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear security risks through adopting an approach conceptualized as ‘transnational security governance’. The article subsequently argues that this approach can be convincingly explained by drawing on the insights from the study of the sociology of bureaucracy and bureaucratic behaviour in international relations. In this story, the EU's approach to international security is an example of normal bureaucratic practice, stemming in particular from the bureaucracy's moral and expert authority. Importantly, the engagement with the broader social science scholarship will benefit EU studies as much as other sub‐disciplines.
A novel BRAF mutation in association with primary amelanotic melanoma with oral metastases
Authors: Zalaudek I. , Ciarrocchi A. , Piana S. , Argenziano G. , Torricelli F. , Sancisi V. , Gandolfi G. , Longo C. , Moscarella E. , Banzi C. , Nicoli D.
Published: January 2014

Background

In the context of amelanotic melanoma, little is known on the genetic or molecular background that determines the onset of this peculiar phenotype of melanoma and its sites of metastatic spread. However, it appears that amelanotic melanomas frequently lack BRAF mutations.

Objective

To report the genetical analysis of one case amelanotic melanoma developing oral metastasis.

Methods

The BRAF mutational status of the primary lesion was assessed by both Sanger sequencing and pyrosequencing.

Results

Both methodologies showed changes in three nucleotides: C1796T; G1798A and T1799A. These mutations should result in a rare double aminoacid substitution in codons 599 and 600 of the BRAF protein (BRAF T599I/V600K).

Conclusion

This unusual mutation was associated with an uncommon clinical phenotype of the primary tumour and with an unusual site of metastatic spread. In the lack of comparable data, a potential association between the unusual mutation and clinical findings remains a matter of further studies.
Timing of Discovery and the Division of Profit With Complementary Innovations
Authors: Biagi Annalisa , Denicolò Vincenzo
Published: January 2014

We analyze the optimal division of profit with complementary innovations. Even if each innovation can be achieved independently of the others, we identify circumstances in which the research should be conducted sequentially, targeting one innovation after another in a prespecified order. We then consider the implementation of this solution in a market equilibrium with specialized research firms. Firms are involved in a war of attrition, where each has an incentive to wait for the others to successfully complete their R&D projects before investing. To speed up innovation, the optimal policy must reward early innovators more generously than late ones.
Complementary Patents and Market Structure
Authors: Schmidt Klaus M.
Published: January 2014

Many high technology goods are based on standards that require several essential patents owned by different IP holders. This gives rise to a complements and a double mark‐up problem. We compare the welfare effects of two different business strategies dealing with these problems. Vertical integration of an IP holder and a downstream producer solves the double mark‐up problem between these firms. Nevertheless, it may raise royalty rates and reduce output as compared to nonintegration. Horizontal integration of IP holders (patent pool, pass through) solves the complements problem but not the double mark‐up problem. Vertical integration discourages entry and reduces innovation incentives, whereas a horizontally integrated firm always benefits from entry and innovation.
What are the Channels for Technology Sourcing? Panel Data Evidence from German Companies
Authors: Harhoff Dietmar , Mueller Elisabeth , Van Reenen John
Published: January 2014

Innovation processes within corporations increasingly tap into international technology sources, yet little is known about the relative contribution of different types of innovation channels. We investigate the effectiveness of different types of international technology sourcing activities using survey information on German companies complemented with information from the European Patent Office. German firms with inventors based in the United States disproportionately benefit from R&D knowledge located in the United States. The positive influence on total factor productivity is larger if the research of the inventors results in coapplications of patents with US companies. Moreover, research cooperation with American suppliers also enables German firms to better tap into US R&D, but cooperation with customers and competitors does not appear to aid technology sourcing. The results suggest that the “brain drain” to the United States can have upsides for corporations tapping into American know‐how.
Ex Ante Agreements in Standard Setting and Patent‐Pool Formation*
Authors: Llanes Gastón , Poblete Joaquín
Published: January 2014

We present a model of standard setting and patent‐pool formation. We study the effects of alternative standard‐setting and pool‐formation rules on technology choice, prices, and welfare. We find three main results. First, we show that allowing patent pools may reduce welfare when standards are negotiated and patent pools need to be ex post incentive compatible. Second, we show that ranking combinations of standard‐setting and pool‐formation rules in welfare terms when patent pools need to be ex post incentive compatible is not possible. Third, we show that allowing firms to sign ex ante agreements regarding pool participation dominates—in terms of welfare—any other policy rule. This policy does not require the standard‐setting organization to have information on patent ownership, the terms of license agreements, or the value added of patents.
Flow Properties of Ficus Deltoidea Extract Powder and the Binders, Acdisol and Avicel
Authors: Mohd Salleh F.S. , Yusof Y.A. , Anuar M.S. , Chin N.L.
Published: January 2014

This work aimed to investigate the flowability properties of the basic powders used to make tablets by means of direct compression. The main product in this study is Ficus deltoidea extract powder, while the excipients operated as binder were croscarmellose sodium (NaCMC or Acdisol) and microcrystalline cellulose (MCC or Avicel). Such excipient powders are essentially water insoluble and can also act as a filler, disintegrator and dissolver in tablet form. In order to compare and optimize powders regarding flowability, a Jenike shear tester was used to measure the flow properties of the powder particle, such as the effective angle of internal friction, flow function and the angle of wall friction. The experimental results showed higher flow property values for binders compared with F. deltoidea extract powder. These results provide essential information for the processing and handling of these powders during storage, transportation and also for the next processing step of powder – tabletting.

Practical Applications

Ficus deltoidea is a popular herb in Malaysia and has become an international favorite for its health‐giving properties and nutritional benefits. This medicinal plant is locally known as Mas Cotek or serapat angin, telinga beruk and other few names. It is a valuable herbal plant that grows wild in the tropical forest of Malaysia, which has become an international favorite for its medicinal and healthy values. As a herbal tree, almost all of the parts of F. deltoidea plant including the roots, bark, stems, leaves and fruits are believed to have medicinal properties, which is useful for health purposes. Due to their promising and high commercial potential, the herb is studied to further develop their scientific usage in terms of pharmaceutical dosage (tablet). However, a small number of scientific work have been conducted to investigate the flow and physical properties of F. deltoidea. However, empirical knowledge and fundamental understanding of the relative contribution of flow properties of F. deltoidea extract powder to neutraceutical industries is lacking. Knowledge of flowabilities of this herb may improve its handling and processing and the quality of tablet production, particularly its mechanical properties.
Polycomb‐group histone methyltransferase CLF is required for proper somatic recombination in Arabidopsis
Authors: Chen Na , Zhou Wang‐Bin , Wang Ying‐Xiang , Dong Ai‐Wu , Yu Yu
Published: January 2014

Homologous recombination (HR) is a key process during meiosis in reproductive cells and the DNA damage repair process in somatic cells. Although chromatin structure is thought to be crucial for HR, only a small number of chromatin modifiers have been studied in HR regulation so far. Here, we investigated the function of CURLY LEAF (CLF), a Polycomb‐group (PcG) gene responsible for histone3 lysine 27 trimethylation (H3K27me3), in somatic and meiotic HR in Arabidopsis thaliana. Although fluorescent protein reporter assays in pollen and seeds showed that the frequency of meiotic cross‐over in the loss‐of‐function mutant clf‐29 was not significantly different from that in wild type, there was a lower frequency of HR in clf‐29 than in wild type under normal conditions and under bleomycin treatment. The DNA damage levels were comparable between clf‐29 and wild type, even though several DNA damage repair genes (e.g. ATM, BRCA2a, RAD50, RAD51, RAD54, and PARP2) were expressed at lower levels in clf‐29. Under bleomycin treatment, the expression levels of DNA repair genes were similar in clf‐29 and wild type, thus CLF may also regulate HR via other mechanisms. These findings expand the current knowledge of PcG function and contribute to general interests of epigenetic regulation in genome stability regulation.
Disease stigma and its mediating effect on the relationship between symptom severity and quality of life among community‐dwelling women with stress urinary incontinence: a study from a Chinese city
Authors: Wan Xiaojuan , Wang Cuili , Xu Dongjuan , Guan Xiaomeng , Sun Tao , Wang Kefang
Published: January 2014

Aims and objectives

To examine the association between disease stigma and quality of life and whether disease stigma mediates the relationship between symptom severity and quality of life among community‐dwelling women with stress urinary incontinence in China.

Background

Urinary incontinent patients perceived great stigma, which inhibited from seeking medical help. There is evidence that stigma associated with some other diseases had a complex relationship with illness severity and quality of life. However, little empirical research has examined the role that stigma plays among urinary incontinent population.

Design

A cross‐sectional, descriptive design was used.

Methods

A purposive sample of 333 women with stress urinary incontinence from a Chinese city was enrolled. Data were collected on symptom severity, disease stigma and quality of life using the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire‐Urinary Incontinence Short Form, Social Impact Scale and Incontinence Quality‐of‐Life Measure, respectively. The mediate effect of disease stigma was analysed using a series of hierarchical regression models.

Results

Disease stigma negatively correlated with quality of life among stress urinary incontinent women. Social isolation and internalised shame, but not social rejection, the domains of disease stigma, partially mediated the effect of symptom severity on quality of life, attenuating the effect by 34·3% together.

Conclusions

Disease stigma impairs quality of life of women with stress urinary incontinence and mediates the association between symptom severity and quality of life. Health workers may improve their quality of life by addressing perceived stigma.

Relevance to clinical practice

Our findings suggest that in clinical practice, stigma reduction may have the potential to not only improve quality of life, but also mitigate the impact of the severity on quality of life among urinary incontinent women. Social isolation and internalised shame should be more concerned in targeted interventions.
The effect of continuous nursing intervention guided by chronotherapeutics on ambulatory blood pressure of older hypertensive patients in the community
Authors: Cheng Mei , Cheng Shu‐Ling , Zhang Qing , Jiang He , Cong Ji‐Yan , Zang Xiao‐Ying , Zhao Yue
Published: January 2014

Aims and objectives

To explore the effect of continuous nursing intervention guided by chronotherapeutics so as to provide the easy, noninvasive, effective and acceptable intervention for older hypertensive patients in the community.

Background

Many researchers studied the effect of administration at different times on blood pressure control and circadian rhythm. However, the individual administrative time was set ambiguously in previous studies.

Design

A semi‐experimental study.

Methods

In the study, 90 eligible patients were recruited and separated into three groups randomly, which were the control group, intervention group A (behaviour and chronotherapy intervention) and intervention group B (behaviour intervention). At 6 and 12 months after the study, the intervention groups were measured 24‐hour ambulatory blood pressure monitoring.

Results

There were significant differences in ambulatory blood pressure monitoring parameters of the two intervention groups at different measurement times, and there were interaction between measurement time and different groups. The number of patients with dipper increased and reverse dipper decreased in group A as the intervention applied. There were statistical differences between two groups. The number of patients with morning surge in group A decreased more, and there were statistical differences between two groups at six months after the intervention.

Conclusions

The behaviour and chronotherapy intervention based on the patients' ambulatory blood pressure monitoring can control casual blood pressure much better and last longer, which can also improve patients' indexes of ambulatory blood pressure monitoring better than behaviour intervention only. The behaviour and chronotherapy intervention can increase patients' nocturnal blood pressure drop, increase the number of patients with dipper and decrease reverse dipper, and improve blood pressure surge in the morning.

Relevance to clinical practice

Nurses can use continuous nursing intervention guided by chronotherapeutics to help improve hypertension of older patients better in the community.