bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Large nanoscale electronic conductivity in complex oxide heterostructures with ultra high electron density
Authors: Arezoomandan Sara , Condori Quispe Hugo , Chanana Ashish , Xu Peng , Nahata Ajay , Jalan Bharat , Sensale-Rodriguez Berardi
Published: July 2016

We study the two-dimensional electron gas at the interface of NdTiO3 and SrTiO3 to reveal its nanoscale transport properties. At electron densities approaching 1015 cm−2, our terahertz spectroscopy data show conductivity levels that are up to six times larger than those extracted from DC electrical measurements. Moreover, the largest conductivity enhancements are observed in samples intentionally grown with larger defect densities. This is a signature of electron transport over the characteristic length-scales typically probed by electrical measurements being significantly affected by scattering by structural defects introduced during growth, and, a trait of a much larger electron mobility at the nanoscale.
Control of the plasmonic resonance of a graphene coated plasmonic nanoparticle array combined with a nematic liquid crystal
Authors: De Sio Luciano , Cataldi Ugo , Bürgi Thomas , Tabiryan Nelson , Bunning Timothy J.
Published: July 2016

We report on the fabrication and characterization of a switchable plasmonic device based on a conductive graphene oxide (cGO) coated plasmonic nanoparticle (NP) array, layered with nematic liquid crystal (NLC) as an active medium. A monolayer of NPs has been immobilized on a glass substrate through electrostatic interaction, and then grown in place using nanochemistry. This monolayer is then coated with a thin (less then 100nm) cGO film which acts simultaneously as both an electro-conductive and active medium. The combination of the conductive NP array with a separate top cover substrate having both cGO and a standard LC alignment layer is used for aligning a NLC film in a hybrid configuration. The system is analysed in terms of morphological and electro-optical properties. The spectral response of the sample characterized after each element is added (air, cGO, NLC) reveals a red-shift of the localized plasmonic resonance (LPR) frequency of approximately 62nm with respect to the NP array surrounded by air. The application of an external voltage (8Vpp) is suitable to modulate (blue shift) the LPR frequency by approximately 22nm.
Initiation of diverse epigenetic states during nuclear programming of the
Drosophila
body plan
Authors: Boija Ann , Mannervik Mattias
Published: July 2016

Significance

Cellular memory is used to transmit information about gene activity to daughter cells and relies on epigenetic mechanisms such as feedback loops and chemical modifications to DNA and chromatin. Although epigenetic modifications have been sampled in many cell types, how epigenetic differences between cells arise is poorly understood. We show that a gene regulatory network controlling
Drosophila
embryogenesis is responsible for orchestrating differences in epigenetic patterns between cell types. We further discovered that different modes of RNA polymerase regulation, including poising and displacement, are linked to these distinct chromatin states. Our results provide novel insights into how transcription regulation and epigenetics are coordinated during cell specification and explain how gene regulatory networks can shape the epigenetic landscape.
Ground topography effects on near-surface elastic full waveform inversion
Authors: Nuber André , Manukyan Edgar , Maurer Hansruedi
Published: July 2016

The effects of neglecting ground surface topography variations in elastic full waveform inversion are investigated using two classes of synthetic example. The models include various high-contrast velocity and density anomalies, as they are often observed in near-surface applications. The first type of example shows that failing to account for even small amplitude fluctuations in topography introduces velocity artefacts in the near-surface part of the tomogram as well as degrades significantly the spatial resolution of features at greater depths. The disturbances are particularly severe when the topographic fluctuations have wavelengths comparable to the minimum seismic wavelength. The second type of synthetic example considers long wavelength topography variations of various amplitudes. It is found that neglecting topography with an amplitude fluctuation greater than half the minimum seismic wavelength leads to appreciable inversion image artefacts. Therefore, the incorporation of surface topography, even if it appears minor, is essential for successful elastic full waveform inversion of land seismic data.
The Use of Ferritin to Identify Critically Ill Patients With Secondary Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis*
Authors: Grangé Steven , Buchonnet Gérard , Besnier Emmanuel , Artaud-Macari Elise , Beduneau Gaetan , Carpentier Dorothée , Dehay Julien , Girault Christophe , Marchalot Antoine , Guerrot Dominique , Tamion Fabienne
Published: July 2016

Objectives:

Thrombocytopenia is a common, multifactorial, finding in ICU. Hemophagocytosis is one of the main explanatory mechanisms, possibly integrated into hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis syndrome, of infectious origin in the majority of cases in ICU. The hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis is probably underdiagnosed in the ICU, although it is associated with dramatic outcomes. The main objectives of this work were to identify the frequency of secondary hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis, and the main prognostic factors for mortality.

Design/Setting:

We conducted a retrospective observational study in all adult patients admitted with suspected or diagnosed hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis, between January 1, 2000, and August 22, 2012.

Patients:

A total of 106 patients (42%) had significant hemophagocytosis on bone marrow examination, performed for exploration of thrombocytopenia, bicytopenia, or pancytopenia.

Measurements and Main Results:

The median age was 56 (45–68) and the median Simplified Acute Physiology Score 2 was 55 (38–68). The main reason for ICU admission was hemodynamic instability (58%), predominantly related to sepsis (45% cases). The main precipitating factor found was a bacterial infection in 81 of 106 patients (76%), including 32 (30%) with Escherichia coli infection. Forty six of 106 patients (43%) died in the ICU. They were significantly older, had higher Simplified Acute Physiology Score 2, plasma lactate deshydrogenase bilirubin, and serum ferritin. The fibrinogen and the percentage of megakaryocytes were significantly lower in nonsurvivors when compared with survivors. In multivariate analysis, only serum ferritin significantly predicted death related to hemophagocytosis. A serum ferritin greater than 2,000 μg/L predicted death with a sensitivity of 71% and a specificity of 76%. A decreased percentage of megakaryocytes also predicted patient death in the ICU.

Conclusions:

Hemophagocytosis is common in thrombocytopenic patients with sepsis, frequently included in a postinfectious hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis setting. Our study reveals that ferritin could be a reliable prognostic marker in these patients, and hold particular interest in discussing a specific treatment for hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis.
Extensive Abdominal Wall Incisional Heterotopic Ossification Reconstructed with Component Separation and Strattice Inlay
Authors: Suleiman Nergis Nina , Sandberg Lars Johan Marcus
Published: July 2016

Symptomatic heterotopic ossification of abdominal surgical incisions is a rare occurrence. We present a 67-year-old man with severe discomfort caused by heterotopic ossification extending from the xiphoid to the umbilicus. The patient underwent an abdominal aortic aneurysm repair 3 years before our treatment. A 13 × 3.5 cm ossified lesion was excised. The resulting midline defect was closed using component separation and inlay Strattice. Tension-free midline adaptation of the recti muscles was achieved. A computed tomography scan of the abdomen 6 months after the surgery showed no recurrence or hernias. Heterotopic ossification in symptomatic patients has previously been treated with excision and primary closure. We believe that tension-free repair is important to prevent recurrence. Acellular dermal matrix may add to this effect and also compartmentalize the process.
Diced Cartilage Graft for Revision Rhinoplasty in a 64-year-old Cleft Patient: A Case Report
Authors: Lin Susie , Hsiao Yen-Chang , Chang Chun-Shin , Chen Philip Kuo-Ting , Chen Jyh-Ping
Published: July 2016

Pure diced cartilage graft has been the technique of choice for revision rhinoplasty in cleft patients since 2003 at our center. This technique has several advantages over the traditional en bloc cartilage onlay graft including minimal risk of warping, its technical simplicity, and the ability to adjust the shape of the graft with manual massage for up to 3 weeks postoperatively. Calcification of the costal cartilage, however, poses a real concern for surgeons. In this case report, we are presenting a 64-year-old woman with a right unilateral complete cleft lip and palate deformity who presented to our clinic for secondary revision. Central-pattern rib calcification was encountered during the operation. Outcomes, details of the operation, and potential limitations of this technique are discussed in this case report.
Safety and Efficacy of Radial EBUS for the Investigation of Peripheral Pulmonary Lesions in Patients With Advanced COPD
Authors: Georgiou Harry D. , Taverner John , Irving Louis B. , Steinfort Daniel P.
Published: July 2016

Background:

Peripheral pulmonary lesion (PPL) is a common scenario in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and represents a high risk of malignancy. Severe COPD is associated with higher complication rates following percutaneous biopsy, and routine bronchoscopy. Safety and diagnostic performance of radial endobronchial ultrasound bronchoscopy (R-EBUS) in patients with advanced COPD has not been previously assessed.

Methods:

We examined a retrospective cohort of patients with advanced COPD undergoing R-EBUS for the evaluation of PPL.

Results:

During the study period, 92 patients underwent 94 R-EBUS procedures. In 50 cases, patients had severe obstructive deficit with mean forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) of 1.01±0.28 L, and FEV1% predicted 39.7±8.2. In 44 cases, patients had mild-moderate obstruction with severe diffusion impairment, with mean diffusion capacity for carbon monoxide% predicted of 41.2±7.9. Pneumothorax requiring intercostal catheter insertion occurred in 2 patients (2.1%). In 10 cases (10.6%; 95% confidence interval, 4.4%-16.8%) patients experienced acute respiratory failure. Diagnostic yield was 63% (59/94) and overall sensitivity for primary lung malignancy was 70% (53/76). Nine patients had a diagnosis on R-EBUS obviating lung resection.

Conclusion:

R-EBUS is safe and accurate for the investigation of PPL in patients with advanced COPD.
Intrabronchial Infusion of Autologous Blood Plus Thrombin for Intractable Pneumothorax After Bronchial Occlusion Using Silicon Spigots
Authors: Mizumori Yasuyuki , Nakahara Yasuharu , Kawamura Tetsuji , Sasaki Shin , Tsukamoto Hiroaki , Mochiduki Yoshiro
Published: July 2016

Background:

Bronchial occlusion therapy using silicon spigots is effective for intractable pneumothorax. However, sometimes the pneumothorax is refractory to bronchial occlusion because of collateral ventilation. For such difficult pneumothoraces, we attempted an intrabronchial infusion of autologous blood plus thrombin to control collateral ventilation and stop air leaks.

Methods:

We performed bronchial occlusions using silicon spigots in patients with spontaneous pneumothorax secondary to emphysema and refractory to chest drainage, but which was inoperable owing to each patient’s poor surgical candidacy and poor overall health condition. When bronchial occlusion proved ineffective, we undertook intrabronchial infusion of autologous blood plus thrombin, 2 to 4 days after bronchial occlusion. A catheter was inserted into the subpleural area, through a gap between the silicon spigot and the bronchial wall, using a flexible bronchoscope under fluoroscopic guidance. Autologous blood, followed by a thrombin solution, was infused using the catheter. We repeated the same infusion a total of 4 to 6 times while changing the target bronchi. All interventions were performed under local anesthesia.

Results:

The subjects were 9 men, aged from 61 to 88 years, with smoking histories. Three patients also had interstitial pneumonia, and 6 patients had undergone pleurodesis in vain before bronchial occlusion. For 4of the 9 patients, autologous blood plus thrombin infusions successfully stopped air leaks, and in 3 patients, intrabronchial infusions and pleurodesis halted leaks altogether.

Conclusion:

Intrabronchial infusion of autologous blood plus thrombin was effective for intractable pneumothoraces that could not be clinically managed, even by bronchial occlusion using silicon spigots.
Attachment Insecurity Predicts Punishment Sensitivity in Anorexia Nervosa
Authors: Keating Charlotte , Castle David J. , Newton Richard , Huang Chia , Rossell Susan L.
Published: July 2016

Individuals with anorexia nervosa (AN) experience insecure attachment. We investigated whether insecure attachment is associated with punishment and reward sensitivity in women with AN. Women with AN (n= 24) and comparison women (n= 26) (CW) completed The Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire, Depression Anxiety Stress Scale, The Attachment Style Questionnaire, and Sensitivity to Punishment/Sensitivity to Reward Questionnaire. Participants with AN returned higher ratings for insecure attachment (anxious and avoidant) experiences and greater sensitivity to punishment (p= 0.001) than CW. In AN, sensitivity to punishment was positively correlated with anxious attachment and negative emotionality but not eating disorder symptoms. Regression analysis revealed that anxious attachment independently predicted punishment sensitivity in AN. Anxious attachment experiences are related to punishment sensitivity in AN, independent of negative emotionality and eating disorder symptoms. Results support ongoing investigation of the contribution of attachment experiences in treatment and recovery.
Evolutionary interpretations of mycobacteriophage biodiversity and host-range through the analysis of codon usage bias
Authors: Esposito Lauren A. , Gupta Swati , Streiter Fraida , Prasad Ashley , Dennehy John J.
Published: July 2016

In an genomics course sponsored by the Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI), undergraduate students have isolated and sequenced the genomes of more than 1,150 mycobacteriophages, creating the largest database of sequenced bacteriophages able to infect a single host, Mycobacterium smegmatis, a soil bacterium. Genomic analysis indicates that these mycobacteriophages can be grouped into 26 clusters based on genetic similarity. These clusters span a continuum of genetic diversity, with extensive genomic mosaicism among phages in different clusters. However, little is known regarding the primary hosts of these mycobacteriophages in their natural habitats, nor of their broader host ranges. As such, it is possible that the primary host of many newly isolated mycobacteriophages is not M. smegmatis, but instead a range of closely related bacterial species. However, determining mycobacteriophage host range presents difficulties associated with mycobacterial cultivability, pathogenicity and growth. Another way to gain insight into mycobacteriophage host range and ecology is through bioinformatic analysis of their genomic sequences. To this end, we examined the correlations between the codon usage biases of 199 different mycobacteriophages and those of several fully sequenced mycobacterial species in order to gain insight into the natural host range of these mycobacteriophages. We find that UPGMA clustering tends to match, but not consistently, clustering by shared nucleotide sequence identify. In addition, analysis of GC content, tRNA usage and correlations between mycobacteriophage and mycobacterial codon usage bias suggests that the preferred host of many clustered mycobacteriophages is not M. smegmatis but other, as yet unknown, members of the mycobacteria complex or closely allied bacterial species.
Global deceleration of gene evolution following recent genome hybridizations in fungi
Authors: Sriswasdi Sira , Takashima Masako , Manabe Ri-ichiroh , Ohkuma Moriya , Sugita Takashi , Iwasaki Wataru
Published: July 2016

Polyploidization events such as whole-genome duplication and inter-species hybridization are major evolutionary forces that shape genomes. Although long-term effects of polyploidization have been well-characterized, early molecular evolutionary consequences of polyploidization remain largely unexplored. Here, we report the discovery of two recent and independent genome hybridizations within a single clade of a fungal genus, Trichosporon. Comparative genomic analyses revealed that redundant genes are experiencing decelerations, not accelerations, of evolutionary rates. We identified a relationship between gene conversion and decelerated evolution suggesting that gene conversion may improve the genome stability of young hybrids by restricting gene functional divergences. Furthermore, we detected large-scale gene losses from transcriptional and translational machineries that indicate a global compensatory mechanism against increased gene dosages. Overall, our findings illustrate counteracting mechanisms during an early phase of post-genome hybridization and fill a critical gap in existing theories on genome evolution.
A resource based approach in the context of the emerging craft brewing industry
Authors: Duarte Alonso Abel , Bressan Alessandro , Sakellarios Nikolaos
Published: July 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this exploratory study is to examine the perceived resources, strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats from the perspective of micro and small brewery owners, managers and brewing masters operating in three countries. To this end, the study adopts the resource-based view (RBV) of the firm, complemented by a strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats analysis.

Design/methodology/approach

The research provides a mixed-methods approach. Data were collected from craft breweries in Italy, Spain and the UK. In all, 165 valid responses were obtained from an online questionnaire, and an additional 24 face-to-face and telephone interviews with craft brewing operators in these three countries were conducted to further enrich the data. Independent samples t-test and Scheffé post hoc were used to analyse part of the quantitative data, while content analysis and word association were used for the qualitative component.

Findings

Product quality and uniqueness of product emerged as important perceived resources and strengths, suggesting an alignment with some of the resource-related attributes postulated by the RBV, such as valuable, rare and (un)substitutable. Other elements, such as natural and sustainable resources, including water quality and the current and future involvement in growing or sourcing raw products locally emerged as key resources, and are suggested as additional attributes. These strategic and tangible resources are however challenged by perceived weaknesses, particularly lack of financial, infrastructure and commercialisation resources, as well as threats from competition.

Originality/value

The exploratory study focuses on craft brewing from the perspective of micro/small operators. This industry has received very limited attention from the literature. The use of the RBV, with the potential to increase understanding of an emerging industry, and develop the theory further in this domain, adds to the originality and value of this research.
Evaluation method for thermal protection of firefighters’ clothing in high-temperature and high-humidity condition
Authors: Su Yun , Wang Yunyi , Li Jun
Published: July 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to provide the details of developments to researchers in test apparatus and evaluation methods to rate the thermal protective performance (TPP) of firefighters’ clothing under high-temperature and high-humidity condition.

Design/methodology/approach

– This review paper describes the influence laws of moisture on thermal protection and the moisture distribution in actual fire environment. Different evaluation methods used for assessing the effect of moisture on the TPP were investigated, with an emphasis on test devices, evaluation indexes as well as their relationship and limitations.

Findings

– The moisture from the ambient, clothing and human perspiration plays an important role in determining the TPP of firefighter protective clothing. It is obvious that research on moisture-driven heat transfer in firefighter’s clothing system are comparatively little, primarily focussing on pre-wetted methods of multi-layer fabric. Further studies should be conducted to develop more standardized moistening systems and improve the current calculation methods for evaluating the performance of protective clothing. New explorations for heat and moisture transfer mechanism in protective clothing should be investigated.

Practical implications

– Protective clothing is the efficient way to provide fire-fighting occupational safety. To accurately evaluate the TPP of protective clothing under high-temperature and high-humidity condition will help to optimize the clothing performance and choose the proper clothing for providing firefighters with the best protection under multiple thermal hazards.

Originality/value

– This paper is offered as a concise reference for scientific community further research in the area of the TPP evaluation methods under high-temperature and high-humidity condition.
Analysis of the performance properties of knitted fabrics containing elastane
Authors: Eryuruk Selin Hanife , Kalaoglu Fatma
Published: July 2016

Purpose

– Knitted fabrics containing elastane provide high level of comfort and ease of usage because of the elastic and drape properties over the body. Knitted fabrics respond to every movement of the body and return back to its original shape easily so they are used widely for apparel production. The most important properties required from the elastic knitted garments are wear comfort, fit, breathability and durability. The purpose of this paper is to analyse the effect of elastane yarn count and ground yarn count on the performance properties of 12 single jersey knitted fabrics were analysed after dying.

Design/methodology/approach

– The research design for this study consists an experimental study. In all, 12 fabrics containing half plating and full plating elastane were produced using 30/1-40/1 Ne yarn counts. Bursting strength, stretch recovery, residual extension, air permeability, spirality and drape properties of fabrics were evaluated.

Findings

– As a result of study it was found a certain effect as the elastane amount and count changed. For all types of knitted fabrics, bursting strength values increased and fabric spirality values decreased as the elastane amount and elastane yarn count increased. Also it was found a significant relationship between elastane amount and count with air permeability, spirality, bursting strength and drape.

Originality/value

– As a result of the literature review, it was seen that the effects of elastane amount, elastane yarn count and fabric yarn count on the performance properties of knitted fabrics has not been studied broadly.
Price discovery and convergence in fragmented securities markets
Authors: Clapham Benjamin , Zimmermann Kai
Published: July 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to study price discovery and price convergence in securities trading within a fragmented market environment where stocks are traded on multiple venues. The results provide novel empirical insights questioning the generalizability of the current literature and aim to expand the understanding of price determination in a fragmented market microstructure.

Design/methodology/approach

– This paper provides an empirical data analysis based on an event study methodology. The authors applied Thomson Reuters Tick History data covering German blue chip stocks listed on multiple venues in 2009 and 2013. Different time aggregations up to one second are applied to provide an in-depth analysis.

Findings

– The paper empirically discovers a persistent price leader-follower relationship not only during intraday auctions but also in subsequent continuous trading. The authors found that trading on alternative venues instantly dries out in case the dominant market switches to a call auction. In these situations, alternative markets await and adopt the official price signal of the dominant market although prices on alternative venues still indicate a certain extent of price discovery. This phenomenon remains persistent at different levels of market fragmentation, indicating that alternative trading venues fully accept the price leadership role of the dominant market, no matter their own market share.

Originality/value

– This paper provides an innovative empirical setup to analyze price co-movement and convergence based on high-frequent data. Further, the results provide novel and robust insights into the price determination process in fragmented markets that clarify the role of price follower and price leader.
Effect of foundation designs of passive house on the thermal bridges at the ground
Authors: Hassan Osama A.B.
Published: July 2016

Purpose

This paper aims to understand the effect of different foundation designs of passive house on the resultant thermal bridges, at the junction between a wall and a slab on grade.

Design/methodology/approach

The linear thermal transmittances of some newly developed foundations of passive house are determined. The investigated foundation designs are L-element, U-element and foundation with foam glass technique.

Findings

It is found that the special design of passive house foundation can considerably influence the heat flow through thermal bridges. In this context, it is proposed a new foundation design of passive house, which has relatively low heat loss through thermal bridges. The results are compared with the “default” ISO values used to evaluate the effect of thermal bridges in typical buildings. It is found that there is large difference between the calculated linear thermal transmittances at the investigated foundations of passive house as compared to typical buildings.

Practical implications

The results can hopefully be used to improve the energy efficiency of the passive house.

Social implications

Sustainable solution of buildings.

Originality/value

A new foundation design of passive house is suggested to reduce heat loss through thermal bridges.
Anti-money laundering practices in banks: customer’s awareness and acceptance in India
Authors: B. Viritha , V. Mariappan
Published: July 2016

Purpose

The aim of this study was to assess the level of awareness and acceptance of bank customers regarding anti-money laundering (AML) practices of banks. The study also aimed to understand their constraints in following the bank’s AML practice.

Design/methodology/approach

The target population was account holders of the banks above the age of 18 years, residing in the Puducherry and Chennai regions in India. Convenience sampling was adopted in selecting the sample from these states. The sample consisted of 416 customers of the public, private and foreign banks in India. The responses were collected by administering the pre-tested structured questionnaire. The data was collected during the period June–December 2014. Descriptive and non-parametric tests were applied, and the significance was considered at p = 0.5.

Findings

Respondents showed low level of awareness with regard to usage of banks as a channel for money laundering (ML) and terrorism financing (TF) activities (62.3 per cent), reporting function of the banks (70.4 per cent), AML and combating financing of terrorism (CFT) legislation (86.3 per cent) and about the existence of Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU)-India and its function (96.9 per cent). The customers were quite aware of ML (62.5 per cent) and customer identification requirements (95.2 per cent). The participants exhibited neutral attitude towards acceptance of AML measures (3.11 ± 1.31). The descriptive analysis showed 97.4 per cent were ready to provide their identification documents to the bank; however, 64.5 per cent of the participants were reluctant to update their Know Your Customer particulars when it has not experienced any change, and about 68.3 per cent expressed that banks should not disclose the details of their transactions to any third party including financial intelligence units.

Research limitations/implications

The sample constituted only few participants from the foreign sector banks because of the difficulty in identifying the foreign bank customers.

Social Implications

There is a necessity to undertake public awareness campaigns on the importance of AML/CFT system either by the banks or FIU-India or both to increase the level of acceptance towards AML measures. This will help the banks to strengthen the bank–customer relationship.

Originality/value

An extensive review of literature could not find any research study on the assessment of awareness and acceptance of banking customers towards AML practices in India. Thus, this paper attempts to understand the level of awareness and acceptance in the bank customers towards AML practices.
Spain: financial ownership file and money laundering prevention
Authors: Gil Soriano Alberto
Published: July 2016

Purpose

This paper aims to analyse the legal configuration of the Spanish financial ownership file and identifies its main legal shortcomings and its necessity and proportionality.

Design/methodology/approach

The primary and secondary sources of information on which this paper is based are statutes and reports issued by Spanish consultative bodies, respectively. Article 43 of Act 10/2010 of 28 April on the prevention of money laundering and terrorist financing created the “financial ownership file”, a publicly owned personal data file containing information on the opening and cancellation of all types of financial accounts. The recently enacted Royal Decree 304/2014 of 5 May approving the Regulations of Act 10/2010 contains further guidance.

Findings

The objective of the financial ownership file is laudable, but the way it has been configured creates new obligations that it could be argued are unnecessary as there are already mechanisms in place to obtain the information in question. The recently enacted regulations raise concerns to the author about access rights, data protection and monitoring, among other aspects.

Originality/value

This paper provides a comprehensive analysis of the Spanish financial ownership file, a topic not yet explored in great detail, and could be useful for other legislatures intending to implement similar systems in their countries.
Qualifying irrigation system sustainability by means of stakeholder perceptions and concerns: lessons from the Segarra‐Garrigues Canal, Spain
Authors: Ricart Sandra , Ribas Anna , Pavón David
Published: July 2016

When planning interventions, water and land resource managers increasingly need to take the opinions of stakeholders into account. In the present study, stakeholders’ concerns in a multifunctional water system are assessed, with a focus on the debate about the sustainability of irrigation projects in stressed and competing water contexts. The selected case study pertains to the Segarra‐Garrigues irrigation canal (Spain), the promotion of which has generated social debate and mobilization, as well as pronouncements from European authorities for ensuring its environmental sustainability. Data was collected through semi‐structured interviews and analysed by means of a new codification system for identifying the affinities and conflicts arising from existing water demands. Results show that sustainability concepts are more present in civil society than in public administration and private services or the rural community. However, social sustainability and environmental sustainability are a priority for most stakeholders, while the economic perspective of sustainable development has been conditioned by the first two. These results can be used by relevant authorities as a first step in customizing their interventions, as they provide a clear initial idea of what stakeholder priorities are in the framework of sustainable development.
It's an ill wind: The effect of fine particulate air pollution on respiratory hospitalizations
Authors: Ward Courtney J.
Published: July 2016

While a growing literature in economics has established the harmful health effects of longstanding criteria air pollutants such as ozone and carbon monoxide, fine particulate air pollution is relatively understudied. This paper provides evidence on the harmful effects of fine particulate pollution for Ontario, where municipalities enjoy particulate levels well below US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) standards and predominantly below Canada‐wide standards. Results provide strong evidence for the detrimental effect of fine particulate pollution for the respiratory health of children, with a one standard deviation change in particulate pollution, leading to a 4% increase in respiratory admissions. While these results inform the stringency of current pollution standards, they also highlight the importance of an international approach to air quality. For instance, the paper also shows that particulate levels in Ontario municipalities are strongly influenced by southerly winds from US jurisdictions, which adhere to more lenient EPA standards.
Firm integration strategies and imperfect labour markets
Authors: Egger Hartmut , Egger Peter , Seidel Tobias
Published: July 2016

This paper introduces labour market imperfections into a three‐country model to study the determinants of firm integration strategies in an open economy. Accounting simultaneously for the decision upon in‐house production versus international outsourcing and the decision upon exporting versus horizontal foreign investment, the analysis points to a crucial role of labour market frictions for the interaction of vertical and horizontal aspects of firm integration strategies in a general equilibrium environment. Beyond that, the analysis sheds light on the consequences of integrating developing countries into the global market, thereby pointing to hitherto unexplored effects arising from adjustments of firm integration strategies. In a welfare analysis, we show that the existence of gains from trade crucially depends on whether firm integration strategies are endogenous or not.
Relaxing CAFE: Foreign direct investment, NAFTA and domestic product standards
Authors: McCalman Phillip , Spearot Alan
Published: July 2016

This paper studies the effects of domestic product standards on the offshoring behaviour of automotive firms. In particular, we examine an important non‐tariff barrier to trade within US fuel economy policy—the Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) “two‐fleet rule.” By leveraging the removal of the two‐fleet rule upon implementation of NAFTA and exploiting a policy discontinuity based on vehicle characteristics, we present evidence that the costs of offshoring were reduced to a larger degree for varieties that were subject to US fuel economy rules. Specifically, we estimate that prices fell between 5% to 10% for varieties subject to the CAFE two‐fleet rule relative to varieties that were exempt from the rule. These effects are persistent, not present for manufacturers that did not offshore prior to NAFTA and are robust to variety‐specific trends. These effects also reconcile the post‐NAFTA differences in implied compliance costs between cars and trucks for our treatment manufacturer (Chrysler). Overall, the results highlight the potential costs of regional enforcement of otherwise location‐neutral product standards, which may act as a barrier to natural patterns of efficient specialization.
Capital substitution in an industrial revolution
Authors: Berg Peter , Staley Mark
Published: July 2016

A unified growth model is presented in which productivity growth is driven by learning‐by‐doing. We show that the growth rate of productivity is an increasing function of the share of capital. It is assumed that the industrial sector has a higher capital share than the agricultural sector and that the ability to substitute one output for the other in the construction of capital goods slowly rises over time. Two distinct regimes of constant growth emerge, connected by a rapid transition in which the growth rate of income increases by an order of magnitude, indicative of an industrial revolution.
The risk of internal hernia or volvulus after laparoscopic colorectal surgery: a systematic review
Authors: Toh J. W. T. , Lim R. , Keshava A. , Rickard M. J. F. X.
Published: July 2016

Aim

To determine the incidence of internal hernias after laparoscopic colorectal surgery and evaluate the risk factors and strategies in the management of this serious complication.

Method

Two databases (MEDLINE from 1946 and Embase from 1949) were searched to mid‐September 2015. The search terms included volvulus or internal hernia and laparoscopic colorectal surgery or colorectal surgery or anterior resection or laparoscopic colectomy. We found 49 and 124 articles on MEDLINE and Embase, respectively, an additional 15 articles were found on reviewing the references. After removal of duplicates, 176 abstracts were reviewed, with 33 full texts reviewed and 15 eligible for qualitative synthesis.

Results

The incidence of internal hernia after laparoscopic colorectal surgery is low (0.65%). Thirty‐one patients were identified. Five cases were from two prospective studies (5/648, 0.8%), 20 cases were from seven retrospective studies (20/3165, 0.6%) and six patients were from case reports. Of the 31 identified cases, 21 were associated with left‐sided resection, four with right sided resection, two with transverse colectomy, one with a subtotal colectomy and in three cases the operation was not specified. The majority of cases (64.3%) were associated with a restorative left sided resection. Nearly all cases occurred within 4 months of surgery. All patients required re‐operation and reduction of the internal hernia and 35.7% of cases required a bowel resection. In 52.2% of cases, the mesenteric defect was closed at the second operation and 52.6% of cases were successfully managed laparoscopically. There were three deaths (0.08%).

Conclusion

Mesenteric hernias are a rare but important complication of laparoscopic colorectal surgery. The evidence does not support routine closure for all cases, but selective closure of the mesenteric defect during left‐sided restorative procedures in high‐risk patients at the initial surgery may be considered.
Fecundity and water flow influence the dynamics of Atlantic salmon
Authors: Jonsson Bror , Jonsson Nina
Published: July 2016

Populations are retained at reduced levels by resource competition and environmental stochasticity. In the Norwegian River Imsa, the relationship between fecundity of Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) spawners and number of smolts per unit river area was investigated for cohorts spawned from 1976 to 2011. Annual number of smolts produced per unit area was best described by a multiplicative model and increased with the fecundity of the females as proxy for number of eggs deposited and the minimum water flow in August towards the end of the first growth season. Mean monthly water temperature, or water flow in any other month during the first year, had no significant effect on number of smolts produced. At sea, there was an almost linear relationship between number of emigrating smolts and returning adults, possibly because population abundance of Atlantic salmon is low relative to the carrying capacity in the ocean. Thus, both number of eggs spawned and minimum water flow in late summer influenced population abundance in the present river.
The antiepileptic medications carbamazepine and phenytoin inhibit native sodium currents in murine osteoblasts
Authors: Petty Sandra J. , Milligan Carol J. , Todaro Marian , Richards Kay L. , Kularathna Pamuditha K. , Pagel Charles N. , French Chris R. , Hill‐Yardin Elisa L. , O'Brien Terence J. , Wark John D. , Mackie Eleanor J. , Petrou Steven
Published: July 2016

Objective

Fracture risk is a serious comorbidity in epilepsy and may relate to the use of antiepileptic drugs (AEDs). Many AEDs inhibit ion channel function, and the expression of these channels in osteoblasts raises the question of whether altered bone signaling increases bone fragility. We aimed to confirm the expression of voltage‐gated sodium (NaV) channels in mouse osteoblasts, and to investigate the action of carbamazepine and phenytoin on NaV channels.

Methods

Immunocytochemistry was performed on primary calvarial osteoblasts extracted from neonatal C57BL/6J mice and additional RNA sequencing (RNASeq) was included to confirm expression of NaV. Whole‐cell patch‐clamp recordings were made to identify the native currents expressed and to assess the actions of carbamazepine (50 μm) or phenytoin (50 μm).

Results

NaV expression was demonstrated with immunocytochemistry, RNA sequencing, and functionally, with demonstration of robust tetrodotoxin‐sensitive and voltage‐activated inward currents. Application of carbamazepine or phenytoin resulted in significant inhibition of current amplitude for carbamazepine (31.6 ± 5.9%, n = 9; p < 0.001), and for phenytoin (35.5 ± 6.9%, n = 7; p < 0.001).

Significance

Mouse osteoblasts express NaV, and native NaV currents are blocked by carbamazepine and phenytoin, supporting our hypothesis that AEDs can directly influence osteoblast function and potentially affect bone strength.
Effect of P2O5on the Nonisothermal Sinter‐Crystallization Process of a Lithium Aluminum Silicate Glass
Authors: Soares Viviane Oliveira , Zanotto Edgar Dutra
Published: July 2016

Dense (~98.5%), lithium aluminum silicate glass‐ceramics were obtained via the sinter‐crystallization of glass particle compacts at relatively low temperatures, that is, 790–875°C. The effect of P2O5on the glass‐ceramics' sinter‐crystallization behavior was evaluated. We found that P2O5does not modify the surface crystallization mechanism but instead delays the crystallization kinetics, which facilitates viscous flow sintering. Our glass‐ceramics had virgilite (LixAlxSi3‐xO6; 0.5 < x < 1), a crystal size <1 μm, and a linear thermal expansion coefficient of 2.1 × 10−6°C−1in the temperature range 40–500°C. The overall heat treatment to obtain theseGCs was quite short, at ~25 min.
Oseltamivir resistance in an influenza A (H3N2) virus isolated from an immunocompromised patient during the 2014–2015 influenza season in Alberta, Canada
Authors: Chaudhry Ahsan , Bastien Nathalie , Li Yan , Scott Allison , Pabbaraju Kanti , Stewart Douglas , Wong Sallene , Drews Steven J.
Published: July 2016

This manuscript describes the identification of an oseltamivir‐resistant influenza A (H3N2) virus in a respiratory specimen collected from an immunocompromised patient in Alberta, Canada, during the 2014–2015 influenza season. Following treatment with oseltamivir, neuraminidase (NA) gene sequencing indicated the presence of an R292K mutation. Phenotypic susceptibility testing by the NA‐Star assay indicated a highly reduced inhibition by oseltamivir and normal inhibition by zanamivir. The use of zanamivir following identification of the oseltamivir‐resistant strain, combined with a partial immune reconstitution, was followed by a suggested decrease in the nasopharyngeal viral load in the nasopharynx and clinical improvement of the patient.
Prevalence of Homocysteine‐Related Hypertension in Patients With Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Ye Zengchun , Wang Cheng , Zhang Qunzi , Li Yan , Zhang Jun , Ma XinXin , Peng Hui , Lou Tanqi
Published: July 2016

Patients with both hypertension and hyperhomocysteinemia, termed H‐type hypertension, have a high risk for cardiocerebrovascular diseases. However, little is known about the prevalence of H‐type hypertension or its role in target organ damage in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). The authors recruited 1042 patients with CKD who were admitted to their hospital division. Multiple linear regression analyses were used to evaluate the association between H‐type hypertension and renal/cardiovascular parameters. A total of 460 (44.14%) CKD patients had H‐type hypertension. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that H‐type hypertension is associated with serum albumin, uric acid, estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), and 24‐hour systolic blood pressure. Patients with H‐type hypertension had the worst renal function and left ventricular hypertrophy among all patients, while the levels of carotid intima‐media thickness (cIMT) in patients with H‐type hypertension were only slightly higher than in patients with normotension and normohomocysteinemia (P<.05). H‐type hypertension was associated with eGFR, left ventricular mass index, and cIMT according to multiple linear regression analyses. The prevalence of H‐type hypertension was high and H‐type hypertension was associated with target organ damage in patients with CKD.
Test–retest reliability of the VA National Center for Patient Safety culture questionnaire
Authors: Shiner Brian , Ronconi Julia M , McKnight Scott , Young‐Xu Yinong , Mills Peter D , Watts Bradley V
Published: July 2016

Rationale, aims and objectives

Patient safety culture may have a significant influence on safety processes and outcomes. Therefore, it is important to have valid tools to measure patient safety culture in order to identify potential levers for cultural change that could improve patient safety. The 65‐item Department of Veterans Affairs Patient Safety Culture Survey (VA PSCS) consists of 14 dimensions and is administered biannually to VA employees. Test–retest reliability of the VA PSCS has not been established.

Methods

We conducted repeated administrations of the VA PSCS among 28 VA employees. We measured intraclass correlation coefficients for each item and dimension.

Results

Test–retest intraclass correlation coefficient values were 0.7 or greater for 13 out of 14 dimensions of the VA PSCS. Employees had difficulty reliably reporting how others feel about patient safety.

Conclusions

In general, the VA PSCS survey showed adequate test–retest reliability. Items asking what others think or feel showed lower reliability. Further work is needed to better understand the relationship between safety culture, safety processes and safety outcomes.