bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sodium rubidium disaccharinate tetrahydrate
Authors: Nazarenko Alexander Y.
Published: June 2018

1,2-Benzothiazol-3(2H)-one 1,1 dioxide (more commonly known under its commercial name saccharin) forms a double salt with sodium and rubidium, Na+·Rb+·2C7H4NO3S−·4H2O. The coordination numbers of the sodium and rubidium ions are 6 and 8, respectively; the coordination polyhedra can be described as distorted triangular and rectangular prisms. Both Rb+ and Na+ cations and flat saccharinate moieties are positioned at mirror planes parallel to the (010) crystallographic plane. Metal ions and saccharinate anions are assembled into infinite layers parallel to the (001) plane via electrostatic interactions and hydrogen-bonded networks. These layers are connected by stacking interactions and C—H...O hydrogen bonds into a three-dimensional structure.
The plasma pretreatment influence on corrosion behavior of Ion Vapor Deposition (IVD) of aluminum coating
Authors: Khani-alamooti Marjan , Mahboubi Farzad
Published: June 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate the effect of plasma pretreatment on the corrosion and adhesion behavior of Al coating deposited on iron steel by ion vapor deposition (IVD).

Design/methodology/approach

Ar plasma sputtering was carried out for 0, 5, 10 and 15 min, and then IVD Al coating was performed. Surface free energy measurements were conducted on the plasma-sputtered surfaces. Cross-sectional observations were carried out on the coating/substrate interface by using scanning electron microscopy. Corrosion resistance of the deposited films was characterized using potentiodynamic polarization curve test and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS).

Findings

Results demonstrated that surface free energy values were increased by increasing the sputtering time before coating process. The corrosion current density of the IVD Al coating deposited after 15 min Ar plasma pretreatment is three orders of magnitude lower than that of steel ST37 substrate. The EIS tests confirm the excellent anticorrosive properties of the Al-coated specimens.

Originality/value

With the increase in the plasma pretreatment time, coating adhesion would ameliorate because of the presence of plasma, which makes substrates a better place for Al ions to set and prevent any gap between coatings and substrates. This fact can be attributed to an increase in the surface free energy and reduction of contact angle of substrate exposed to plasma pre-treatment.
Understanding the trends of marketing research and its future directions: a citation analysis
Authors: Sheoran Monika , Kumar Divesh , Kumar Vinod , Verma Deepak
Published: June 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to understand the scholarly contributions to the field of marketing by analyzing top ten journals of marketing.

Design/methodology/approach

The marketing journals were selected using SciMago marketing journal list, and SCOPUS database was used to identify the publications of the journals. A total of 9,190 articles were analyzed having 562,322 citation references. Methodologies like Wordle and Gephi were used to understand the most researched keywords and co-citation analysis among top five researchers. This paper also captured the information on most cited article along with author, most published author, most publishing country, most publishing university, the year with maximum publications and most used keywords.

Findings

The analysis indicates that “Kumar, V.” is most published author, that is, 68 publications, the most cited article is “On the evaluation of structural equation models” by Bagozzi and Yi (1988) with 6989 citations. The USA contributed the highest 6,720 publications, while University of Pennsylvania, Wharton School topped the list with 235 articles. In 2009, highest publication work was done by publishing 382 articles. “Game theory”, “Pricing” and “Advertising” are most used keywords which have been discussed in the literature.

Research limitations/implications

This analysis will help researchers in understanding the growth in the field of the marketing in recent years and possible direction it could take in future. However, this paper considered only top ten marketing journals as listed in SciMago marketing journal list; therefore, future researchers may incorporate more research journals to get a clearer picture of the field of marketing.

Originality/value

This paper is one of the first attempts in recent time to understand the research work in the field of marketing considering top ten journals.
Effect of temperature on the MHD stagnation-point flow past an isothermal plate for a Boussinesquian Newtonian and micropolar fluid
Authors: Borrelli Alessandra , Giantesio Giulia , Patria Maria Cristina
Published: June 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to analyze the steady two-dimensional stagnation-point flow of an electrically conducting Newtonian or micropolar fluid when the obstacle is uniformly heated.

Design/methodology/approach

The governing boundary layer equations are transformed into a system of ordinary differential equations using appropriate similarity transformations. Some analytical considerations about existence and uniqueness of the solution are obtained. The system is then solved numerically using the bvp4c function in MATLAB.

Findings

If the temperature of the obstacle Tw coincides with the environment temperature T0, then the motion reduces to the usual orthogonal stagnation-point flow; if Tw = T0, then it is necessary to include in the similarity function describing the velocity an oblique part due to the temperature. Also, the presence of a uniform external magnetic field orthogonal to the obstacle is examined. In all cases, the motion is reduced to a system of nonlinear ordinary differential equations with boundary conditions, whose solution is discussed numerically when the Prandtl and the Hartmann number varies.

Originality/value

The present results are original and new for the problem of magnetohydrodynamic mixed convection in the plane stagnation-point flow of a Newtonian or a micropolar fluid over a vertical flat plate. At infinity, the motion approaches the orthogonal stagnation-point flow of an inviscid fluid; the effect of an uniform external magnetic field is considered, and the obstacle has a uniform temperature.
Framework for financial hardship indebtedness management in abandoned housing projects in Malaysia
Authors: Mikail Sa’id Adekunle , Kasri Noor Suhaida , Elatrash Saba Radwan , Adewale Abideen Adeyemi
Published: June 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the existing practices and pertinent issues affecting Islamic banks and their customers in abandoned housing projects (AHPs) to ensure compliance with Sharīʿah and statutory requirements.

Design/methodology/approach

This study employs the qualitative research method using the inductive approach to analyze both primary and secondary data and sources. Data collection involved a series of semi-structured interviews with five volunteering Islamic banks and a representative of Abandoned Property Owners Association Malaysia (Victims). Statutory acts, regulatory policies, guidelines, directives and standards were also analyzed.

Findings

The result indicates developer’s default, underlying contracts, regulatory arbitrage and bureaucracy, attitudinal disposition of customers and sell-then-build approach as major factors of AHP’s conundrum.

Practical implications

This study has suggested both short- and long-term solutions based on the principles of justice, public interests and removal of hardship to resolve and effectively manage financial hardship indebtedness arising from housing abandonment. Further, part of the proposed solutions would also reshape housing development policies and home financing transactions.

Originality/value

The quest for this research demonstrated Islamic banking industry’s initiatives to find lasting solutions to perennial issues of AHPs.
A qualitative inquiry into cashwaqfmodel as a source of financing for micro enterprises
Authors: Mohd Thas Thaker Mohamed Asmy Bin
Published: June 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to explore the opinions and recommendations of various experts on the integrated cashwaqfmicro enterprise investment (ICWME-I) model, particularly in terms of its suitability, applicability and prospects in the market.

Design/methodology/approach

The research involves primary data which are collected from semi-structured interviews conducted with experts from various backgrounds. Thematic analysis was used to examine the data.

Findings

The experts support the suitability of the ICWME-I model in providing financial services to micro enterprises. They highlight the importance of establishing, managing and operating ICWME-I model under the aegis of the State Islamic Religious Council in Malaysia or the corporate sector. They further emphasize that the characteristics of micro enterprises, the element of sustainable funding, the importance of proper management and administration, legal matters and public awareness are key factors that influence the sustainability of the ICWME-I model.

Originality/value

This paper adds to the literature onwaqfand micro enterprises especially from the Malaysian context. The paper validates the ICWME-I model in terms of its suitability, applicability and prospects in the market by interviewing experts from various backgrounds.
The effect of Islamic sacred months on stock prices in Iran and Iraq Stock Exchanges
Authors: Salman Irag Al-Najaf Faisal Abduleh , Salehi Mahdi , Nimr Al-Maliki Hind Shafeeq
Published: June 2018

Purpose

The present study aims to examine the effects of the Islamic sacred months, namely, Muḥarram, Rajab, Dhu al-Qaʿdah and Dhu al-Ḥijjah, on stock prices on the Iran and Iraq Stock Exchanges.

Design/methodology/approach

Using the infrastructure models of the capital market, the daily stock prices were calculated for the sacred and non-sacred months. As the data of this study are non-stationary, the AMIRA time-series model was used for better understanding of the model or future projections. The dependent variables of this study are the daily stock indexes for Iranian and Iraqi Stock Exchanges, and independent ones are the sacred and non-sacred months of a lunar year. Data were gathered daily from the financial statements of Iranian and Iraqi Stock Exchanges websites. To test the hypotheses under study, a five-year period from 2012 to 2016 was considered for both Iraqi and Iranian Stock Exchanges, which corresponds with the lunar calendar from 1433-1437AH.

Findings

The obtained results indicated that there is no significant difference in stock prices between the sacred months of Muḥarram, Rajab, Dhu al-Qaʿdah and Dhu al-Ḥijjah and other non-sacred months. However, the stock price in the Iranian Stock Exchange has a significant difference in Rajab and Dhu al-Qaʿdah with other non-sacred months.

Originality/value

The results of this study will reveal more than ever the role of Islamic sacred months for society and users of financial statements to make better financial decisions especially in Islamic emerging markets.
Academic sociology
Authors: Hasan Zubair
Published: June 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the causes and impact of predatory online publishing on Islamic economics and finance.

Design/methodology/approach

The method adopted involves a library literature scan to identify the origin and expansion of predatory publishing, as references listed in the paper show. The personal experience and observation of the author over the decades of teaching at various universities endorses the evidence.

Findings

The focus on “publish or perish” has led to division of Islamic scholars into conservative and modern economists, and it led to the overuse of mathematical and parametric modeling to the disadvantage of the discipline essentially imbued with unquantifiable ethical norms and values.

Practical implications

The study seeks to induce fruitful and purposive change in the research designs and direction of Islamic economics and finance.

Originality/value

This research initiates discussion on predatory publishing, an issue so far untouched in Islamic economics. It explores its impact on the discipline and suggests ways to curb the malady.
Sale with the temporary exclusion of usufruct
Authors: Mashal Abdulbari , Hajal Amer , Majoul Om Kalthoum , Ansary Mir Riaz
Published: June 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate sale with the temporary exclusion of usufruct, a format debated in classical Islamic jurisprudence. More specifically, it examines the application of this sale format in the diminishing partnership arrangement used by American Finance House LARIBA to finance house purchases. It analyzes the Sharīʿah issues and assesses the risks involved.

Design/methodology/approach

The research is qualitative, surveying and critically analyzing classical fiqh literature and contemporary juristic resolutions, as well as LARIBA’s financing documents. Finally, it systematically surveys the associated risk factors, first qualitatively, and then by quantifying them.

Findings

The research concludes that sale with the temporary exclusion of usufruct is a valid contract in Islamic law. When the usufruct is priced at market rate, the financing arrangement is genuinely Islamic and brings added value. Moreover, it is very effective in addressing risks for Islamic banks, particularly in countries with legal systems not designed to accommodate Islamic finance.

Originality/value

This study systematically examines all aspects of a contract that has not received sufficient academic attention, that has been underutilized by the Islamic finance industry and that is more fitting for implementation than many of the contracts currently being used.
Decision-making and cost deviation in new product development projects
Authors: Thore Olsson Anne-Cathrine , Johannesson Ulf , Schweizer Roger
Published: June 2018

Purpose

Emphasizing the importance of product cost deviation; the purpose of this paper is to contribute to the new product development (NPD) literature and research on decision making by discussing: How are decisions related to product cost deviations made during a product development project?

Design/methodology/approach

An in-depth single case study approach studying the decision-making process of Volvo Cars Cooperation during a car development project is applied.

Findings

The paper suggests that factors influencing how decisions related to cost deviations are made during a NPD are not limited to the classic trade-offs among time, cost and scope, but include managers’ complex cause-and-effect analysis under the influence of values, behaviors and norms. Furthermore, the context is not limited to NPD projects; rather the frame for the decisions and its influencers is at least as wide as the corporate context.

Research limitations/implications

The common limitations of a single case study apply.

Practical implications

The study emphasizes the importance of clearly defined targets during a NPD project that need to well communicated, acknowledged and understood by all involved to serve as true business levers. A poor target is likely better than no target. Furthermore, lack of overview or responsibility for the success of the projects, increase the risk for sub-optimization and silo thinking.

Originality/value

The study is pioneering by highlighting the importance of and explaining the implications of decision making related to cost deviations during a NPD project.
Rethinking client value within construction contracting services
Authors: Aliakbarlou Sadegh , Wilkinson Suzanne , Costello Seosamh B.
Published: June 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to improve the understanding of what clients value from contractors’ services. Understanding client values and the way by which clients perceive value will contribute to client-perceived value within contracting services.

Design/methodology/approach

A literature review was conducted to understand how clients perceive value in the construction industry. In addition, conducting expert interviews and document analysis helped in achieving the research purpose.

Findings

The findings show that values associated with time, cost and quality can be considered as important client values, while they are not exclusive values for assessing contractor service anymore. Construction clients are concerned about health and safety, low rate of environmental impact, guarantees, creativity, technology transfer, value for money, reliability and tangibles of their contractors’ services. In addition, they value their contractors’ behaviour, attitude and professionalism.

Research limitations/implications

The study has disseminated different client values, through classified outcomes, to make the knowledge area more available to construction service providers. This study’s findings helped in understanding client values and how clients perceive value from contractors’ services. With this information, contractors are able to provide better services to clients. Satisfactory delivery of the values identified in this study is believed to have the greatest impact on client-perceived value within contracting services. Developing a management strategy that recognises, prioritises and satisfactorily delivers these values is essential to ensure that highest level of client-perceived value is achieved.

Originality/value

The construction literature is focussed on traditional values related to time, cost and quality, while this study highlighted the role of values such as trust, commitment, communication and other non-result-ordinated values essential for achieving client satisfaction. This study’s findings proposed a new practical assessment concept to value construction contractor services.
Trade space and trade policy: an empirical assessment
Authors: Gnangnon Sena Kimm
Published: June 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the behavior of governments in terms of trade policy design when they experience a lack of foreign resources from international trade after ensuring the sustainability of their external debt. To do so, the paper defines two concepts of trade space: “De Facto Trade Space” and “De Jure trade space.”

Design/methodology/approach

To conduct this study, the author relies on a panel data set comprising 109 countries over the period 1998–2014. To perform the empirical analysis, the author has mainly used the system generalized methods of moments approach.

Findings

The empirical analysis suggests evidence that trade space matters significantly for trade policy. Indeed, “De Facto Trade Space” is consistently associated with greater trade policy liberalization, with this positive effect being higher, the higher the development level – proxied by the real per capita income – of the concerned country. “De Jure Trade Space” tends to lead to greater trade policy liberalization in less advanced developing countries, but is associated with the adoption of trade restrictive measures in more advanced countries. Additionally, results suggest different impacts on trade policy of “Positive De Jure Trade Space” and “Negative De Jure Trade Space.”

Research limitations/implications

These findings suggest that the trade space, as defined in this study, plays a key role in trade policy design by policymakers.

Practical implications

The current study shows that trade space could significantly matter for trade policy design by policymakers.

Originality/value

To the best of the author’s knowledge, this is the study dealing directly with the “trade space” concept as well as its impact on trade policy.
Efficiency in banking of developing countries with the same cultural background
Authors: Barros C.P. , Tsionas Mike G. , Wanke Peter , Azad Md. Abul Kalam
Published: June 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyze the bank efficiency in three developing countries, namely Angola, Brazil and Mozambique, aiming to infer differences given that they belong to the same cultural tradition. The underlying idea is to control for the cultural background, thus allowing the discussion on how different socio-economic and historical variables maybe impacting different levels of banking efficiency and returns to scale results within the ambit of these three countries.

Design/methodology/approach

Due to the presence of latent inefficiency, the authors have to modify the technique to accommodate simulation by importance sampling; therefore, in effect, the authors use a local maximum simulated likelihood approach.

Findings

The results reveal that Brazil has the highest level of output-oriented efficiency, followed by Angola and then Mozambique. The same ranking is observed in returns to scale, except thatvis-à-vistechnical change, Brazil and Angola rank first. Finally, inefficiency derived from technical change is highest in Mozambique, followed by Angola and then Brazil. Therefore, these results reveal that the countries with the highest degree of development are higher in efficiency.

Originality/value

Previous studies have identified factors such as legal tradition, accounting conventions, regulatory structures, property rights, culture and religion as possible explanations for cross-border variations in financial development and economic growth. This is the first time banking efficiency is assessed in light of a common cultural background by selecting a group of countries that share the same language and colonial past. Since results are controlled for the same background, it is possible to affirm that the findings are purely related to scale size and economic/political background issues of each country.
Let me tell you about healthy ageing and about my quality of life: listening to the baby boomer voice
Authors: Hardy Margaret , Oprescu Florin , Millear Prue , Summers Mathew
Published: June 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to determine how baby boomers define healthy ageing and quality of life, and if late life university study could have a beneficial impact for future health-promoting initiatives.

Design/methodology/approach

Qualitative data were collected from Australian baby boomers. Data were inductively categorised to identify and report emergent themes.

Findings

The majority of respondents believed healthy ageing meant being mentally and physically active, with later life university study contributing to mental health, which improves their quality of life.

Social implications

Later life university study can have positive health outcomes for baby boomers and may contribute to the quality of their life.

Originality/value

This study suggests that baby boomers are quite clear about how they define healthy ageing and quality of life: maintaining good health and retaining their independence. Some baby boomers stated that intellectual stimulation was critical for their overall health and wellbeing. Baby boomers identified as belonging to this group engagement in an educational (i.e. university) programme could be considered as a health-promoting intervention.
Lactic acid bacteria isolated from Brazilian Minas artisanal cheeses and their in vitro antagonisms against Mycobacterium bovis BCG
Authors: de Oliveira Letícia Goulart , Silva Gabriela Oliveira E , Barbosa Cosme Damião , Sant'Anna Felipe Machado , de Castro Renata Dias , Figueiredo Naiara Chaves , Nunes Álvaro Cantini , Lage Andrey Pereira , de Souza Marcelo Resende
Published: June 2018

The consumption of raw milk and its products is a risk factor associated with zoonotic tuberculosis. Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) show inhibitory activity against Mycobacterium bovis, the causative agent of tuberculosis. The aim of this study was to assess the in vitro antagonistic activity of LAB from Brazilian Minas artisanal cheese against M. bovis bacillus Calmette‐Guérin (BCG). Nine LAB were tested against M. bovis BCG in five in vitro antagonistic assays. Four lactobacilli gave the best results in all the experiments. This could be due to their growth rate, acid and bacteriocin production. In conclusion, LAB are capable of inhibiting M. bovis BCG viability.
Ensemble modelling predicts Human Carnivore Conflict for a community adjacent to a protected area in Zimbabwe
Authors: Mpakairi Kudzai , Ndaimani Henry , Vingi Knowledge , Madiri Tinaapi Hilary , Nekatambe Tendai
Published: June 2018

Overlapping interests between humankind and nature have resulted in humans and wildlife interacting. These interactions usually emanate from the absence of fences or hard boundaries to restrict animal movement and when this happens, it results in Human Carnivore Conflict (HCC). People residing in areas adjacent to protected areas are the ones mostly at risk of HCC. In this study, we used ensemble modelling to explain predation risk and indicate the key drivers of HCC in Matetsi Communal Area, Zimbabwe. Ensemble modelling involves building a single consensus model from several candidate models. We used seven environmental variables for the modelling process, and these were distance from the park boundary, distance from rivers, Normalised Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), human population density and livestock density for cattle, goats and sheep. Livestock kill sites were used as the presence data. Our results illustrate that ensemble modelling explains predation risk with a true skill statistic (TSS) of 0.9 for Matetsi Communal Area. This study provides the potential application of ensemble modelling in HCC management through identifying predation risk areas. In identifying predation risk areas, proactive and cost‐efficient management strategies for dealing with HCC in specific high‐risk areas are plausible.
Trends in rates of inpatients treated for testicular cancer in France, 2000–2014
Authors: Kudjawu Yao C. , de Maria Florence , Beltzer Nathalie
Published: June 2018

Testicular cancer is rare, accounting for 1–3% of incidence of all malignancies in men. Forecasts predict that the incidence of testicular cancer will increase by 25% in Europe by 2025. We aimed to describe temporal and spatial trends of rates of patients surgically treated for testicular cancer (STTC) in France over the period 2000–2014. Using the International Classification of Diseases and medical procedure codes, from the national hospital discharge database, we selected patients diagnosed with testicular cancer during 2000–2014 who underwent surgery. We used the world's standard population as a reference to standardize rates. We included 29,760 STTC patients. The mean age at diagnosis was 37.4 (±13.5) years. Over the period 2000–2014, the standardized incidence rate of STTC was 6.2 [95% CI: 6.1;6.3] per 100,000 person‐years. The overall rate of STTC increased by 21.3% between 2000 and 2014. The annual percentage change (APC) was +1.9% [95% CI: 1.4;2.3] over that period. The incidence rate of STTC was highest among men aged 30–44 (15.0 [95% IC: 14.7;15.2] per 100,000 person‐years) and lowest among men aged 0–14 (0.2 [95% IC: 0.16;0.22]). Age‐specific STTC incidence rates were similar to indicators from cancer registry data except in elderly men aged 60 years and over. Over the study period, the incidence of STTC increased over the year in all the regions of Metropolitan France. APC varied across regions from 1.0% [95% IC: −4.1;6.1] in Île‐de‐France to 4.2% [95% IC: −0.8;9.2] in Corse. Hospital discharge data, which are more quickly available than population‐based data, are good complementary surveillance source for monitoring testicular cancer, especially in young adult patients and area without population‐based registry.
A Comparison of Two Methods for Recording Entheseal Change on a Post‐Medieval Urban Skeletal Collection from Aalst (Belgium)
Authors: Palmer J. L. A. , Quintelier K. , Inskip S. , Waters‐Rist A. L.
Published: June 2018

This research compares two current methods for recording bony changes at muscle attachment sites, called entheseal changes (EC); the Mariotti method and the Coimbra method, to evaluate the concordance and comparability of results in a post‐medieval skeletal collection from Aalst, Belgium (n = 116). For both methods, the EC scores produce broadly similar patterns, are symmetrical and differ between age groups. Statistical differences between the upper and lower limb and the lower limb of males and females only occur in the Mariotti method. With careful consideration of the influence of different EC score ranges, the results from the two methods can generally be compared.
Liraglutide Decreases Hepatic Inflammation and Injury in Advanced Lean Non‐Alcoholic Steatohepatitis
Authors: Ipsen David H. , Rolin Bidda , Rakipovski Günaj , Skovsted Gry F. , Madsen Anette , Kolstrup Stefanie , Schou‐Pedersen Anne Marie , Skat‐Rørdam Josephine , Lykkesfeldt Jens , Tveden‐Nyborg Pernille
Published: June 2018

Although commonly associated with obesity, non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is also present in the lean population representing a unique disease phenotype. Affecting 25% of the world's population, NAFLD is associated with increased mortality especially when progressed to non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). However, no approved pharmacological treatments exist. Current research focuses mainly on NASH associated with obesity, leaving the effectiveness of promising treatments in lean NASH virtually unknown. This study therefore aimed to evaluate the effect of liraglutide (glucagon‐like peptide 1 analogue) and dietary intervention, alone and in combination, in guinea pigs with non‐obese NASH. After 20 weeks of high‐fat feeding (20% fat, 15% sucrose, 0.35% cholesterol), 40 female guinea pigs were block‐randomized based on weight into four groups receiving one of four treatments for 4 weeks: continued high‐fat diet (HF, control), high‐fat diet and liraglutide treatment (HFL), chow diet (4% fat, 0% sucrose, 0% cholesterol; HFC) or chow diet and liraglutide treatment (HFCL). High‐fat feeding induced NASH with severe fibrosis. Liraglutide decreased inflammation (p < 0.05) and hepatocyte ballooning (p < 0.05), while increasing hepatic α‐tocopherol (p = 0.0154). Dietary intervention did not improve liver histopathology significantly, but decreased liver weight (p = 0.004), plasma total cholesterol (p = 0.0175), LDL‐cholesterol (p = 0.0063), VLDL‐cholesterol (p = 0.0034), hepatic cholesterol (p < 0.0001) and increased hepatic vitamin C (p = 0.0099). Combined liraglutide and dietary intervention induced a rapid weight loss, necessitating periodical liraglutide dose adjustment/discontinuation, limiting the strength of the findings from this group. Collectively, this pre‐clinical study supports the beneficial effect of liraglutide on NASH and extends this notion to lean NASH.
Maternity care experiences and health needs of migrant women from female genital mutilation–practicing countries in high‐income contexts: A systematic review and meta‐synthesis
Authors: Turkmani Sabera , Homer Caroline S.E. , Dawson Angela
Published: June 2018

Background

Female genital mutilation (FGM) is a cultural practice defined as the partial or total removal of the external female genitalia for nontherapeutic indications. Due to changing patterns of migration, clinicians in high‐income countries are seeing more women from countries where the practice is prevalent. This review aims to understand the sociocultural and health needs of these women and identify opportunities to improve the quality of maternity care for women with FGM.

Methods

We undertook a systematic review and meta‐synthesis of peer‐reviewed primary qualitative research to explore the experience and needs of migrant women with FGM receiving maternity care. A structured search of nine databases was undertaken, screened papers appraised, and a thematic analysis undertaken on data extracted from the findings and discussion sections of included papers.

Results

Sixteen peer‐reviewed studies were included in the systematic review. Four major themes were revealed: Living with fear, stigma, and anxiety; Feelings of vulnerability, distrust, and discrimination; Dealing with past and present ways of life after resettlement; and Seeking support and involvement in health care.

Conclusions

The findings suggest that future actions for improving maternity care quality should be focused on woman‐centered practice, demonstrating cultural safety and developing mutual trust between a woman and her care providers. Meaningful consultation with women affected by FGM in high‐income settings requires cultural sensitivity and acknowledgment of their specific circumstances. This can be achieved by engaging women affected by FGM in service design to provide quality care and ensure woman‐focused policy is developed and implemented.
Outcomes of “diabetes‐friendly” vs “diabetes‐unfriendly” β‐blockers in older nursing home residents with diabetes after acute myocardial infarction
Authors: Zullo Andrew R. , Hersey Michelle , Lee Yoojin , Sharmin Sadia , Bosco Elliott , Daiello Lori A. , Shah Nishant R. , Mor Vincent , Boscardin W. John , Berard‐Collins Christine M. , Dore David D. , Steinman Michael A.
Published: June 2018

Aims

To assess whether nursing home (NH) residents with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D) preferentially received “T2D‐friendly” (vs “T2D‐unfriendly”) β‐blockers after acute myocardial infarction (AMI), and to evaluate the comparative effects of the two groups of β‐blockers.

Materials and Methods

This new‐user retrospective cohort study of NH residents with AMI from May 2007 to March 2010 used national data from the Minimum Data Set and Medicare system. T2D‐friendly β‐blockers were those hypothesized to increase peripheral glucose uptake through vasodilation: carvedilol, nebivolol and labetalol. Primary outcomes were hospitalizations for hypoglycaemia and hyperglycaemia in the 90 days after AMI. Secondary outcomes were functional decline, death, all‐cause re‐hospitalization and fracture hospitalization. We compared outcomes using binomial and multinomial logistic regression models after propensity score matching.

Results

Of 2855 NH residents with T2D, 29% initiated a T2D‐friendly β‐blocker vs 24% of 6098 without T2D (P < 0.001). For primary outcomes among residents with T2D, T2D‐friendly vs T2D‐unfriendly β‐blockers were associated with a reduction in hospitalized hyperglycaemia (odds ratio [OR] 0.45, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.21‐0.97), but unassociated with hypoglycaemia (OR 2.05, 95% CI 0.82‐5.10). For secondary outcomes, T2D‐friendly β‐blockers were associated with a greater rate of re‐hospitalization (OR 1.26, 95% CI 1.01‐1.57), but not death (OR 1.06, 95% CI 0.85‐1.32), functional decline (OR 0.91, 95% CI 0.70‐1.19), or fracture (OR 1.69, 95% CI 0.40‐7.08).

Conclusions

In older NH residents with T2D, T2D‐friendly β‐blocker use was associated with a lower rate of hospitalization for hyperglycaemia, but a higher rate of all‐cause re‐hospitalization.
Using temporary emigration to inform movement behaviour of cave‐dwelling invertebrates: a case study of a cave harvestman species
Authors: Băncilă Raluca I. , Pradel Roger , Choquet Rémi , Plăiaşu Rodica , Gimenez Olivier
Published: June 2018

1. Understanding of animal movement behaviour is critical for developing appropriate conservation strategies because of its profound implications for predicting species' responses to perturbations. To date there is a substantial knowledge gap of the movement behaviour of subterranean invertebrates.

2. In this study temporary emigration (TE), the probability that an individual is absent from the cave on a given sampling occasion, was used as a method to inform on the movement and behaviour of cave‐dwelling invertebrates. Because these animals are difficult to study with traditional tracking techniques, the capture–recapture (CR) modelling framework was used to assess TE and to account for imperfect detectability and unobservable states.

3. Specifically, the influence of season, sex, and surface weather variables on the TE of the facultative cave‐dwelling harvestman species, Paranemastoma sillii sillii (Herman, 1871), was investigated. Multistate CR models were used while accounting for individual heterogeneity on 999 individually marked adults of two populations inhabiting two caves, located in southwestern Romania.

4. Harvestmen demonstrated clear heterogeneity and seasonality in TE. Findings showed that the TE of harvestmen exhibited variation between caves and there was little support for surface weather variables influencing TE and for sex‐specific TE patterns.

5. These results show that the study of TE patterns is useful to gain valuable insights into movement and intrinsic behavioural processes of cave‐dwelling harvestmen. The method could potentially be used for other invertebrate groups with similar movement characteristics and when traditional tracking techniques are difficult.
Meta‐analysis and systematic review of population‐based epidemiological studies in idiopathic intracranial hypertension
Authors: McCluskey G. , Doherty‐Allan R. , McCarron P. , Loftus A. M. , McCarron L. V. , Mulholland D. , McVerry F. , McCarron M. O.
Published: June 2018

Idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) is positively associated with obesity, mostly in young women. The global increase in obesity may influence the burden ofIIH. Using the PubMed, Embase, MEDLINE and Web of Science databases, a meta‐analysis and systematic review of epidemiological studies ofIIHwere performed up to June 2017. Temporal changes inIIHincidence were measured, and incidence rates ofIIHwere correlated with country‐specific World Health Organization obesity rates. Prevalence data and shunting rates ofIIHwere recorded. The quality of epidemiological studies was assessed using the Standards of Reporting of Neurological Disorders (STROND) criteria. In 15 identified studies, there were 889 patients (87% women), mean age 29.8 years. The incidence ofIIHranged from 0.03 to 2.36 per 100 000 per year. The pooled incidence ofIIHwas 1.20 per 100 000 per year although there was very high heterogeneity (I298%). The incidence rates ofIIHwere correlated with country‐specific prevalence of obesity (Spearman's correlation 0.82,P< 0.01). The prevalence ofIIHwas rarely recorded. A shunting procedure was reported in 8% of patients.STRONDcriteria were variably reported, median of 26.5 of 43 (range 16–35). IIH is a public health concern as increased obesity prevalence is associated with increased incidence ofIIH. A better quality of epidemiological studies is required to improve understanding ofIIHand inform health policy forIIHmanagement.
Epilepsy in Asia: Disease burden, management barriers, and challenges
Authors: Trinka Eugen , Kwan Patrick , Lee ByungIn , Dash Amitabh
Published: June 2018

This article reviews the burden of epilepsy in Asia, the challenges faced by people with epilepsy, and the management of epilepsy. Comparison is made with other parts of the world. For this narrative review, data were collected using specified search criteria. Articles investigating the epidemiology of epilepsy, diagnosis, comorbidities and associated mortality, stigmatization, and treatment were included. Epilepsy is a global health care issue affecting up to 70 million people worldwide. Nearly 80% of people with epilepsy live in low‐ and middle‐income countries with limited resources. People with epilepsy are prone to physical and psychological comorbidities, including anxiety and depression, which can negatively impact their quality of life. Furthermore, people with epilepsy are at higher risk of premature death than people without epilepsy. Discrimination or stigmatization of people with epilepsy is common in Asia and can affect their education, work, and marriage opportunities. Access to epilepsy treatment varies throughout Asia. Although highly advanced treatment is available in some countries, up to 90% of people with epilepsy are not adequately treated or are not treated with conventional antiepileptic therapy in resource‐limited countries. People in remote areas often do not receive any epilepsy care. First‐generation antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) are available, but usually only in urban areas, and second‐generationAEDs are not available in all countries. NewerAEDs tend to have more favorable safety profiles than first‐generationAEDs and provide options to tailor therapy for individual patients, especially those with comorbidities. Active epilepsy surgery centers are present in some countries, although epilepsy surgery is often underutilized given the number of patients who could benefit. Further epidemiologic research is needed to provide accurate epilepsy data across the Asian region. Coordinated action is warranted to improve access to treatment and care.
Identifying recreational fisheries in the Mediterranean Sea through social media
Authors: Giovos Ioannis , Keramidas Ioannis , Antoniou Charalampos , Deidun Alan , Font Toni , Kleitou Periklis , Lloret Josep , Matić‐Skoko Sanja , Said Alicia , Tiralongo Francesco , Moutopoulos Dimitrios K.
Published: June 2018

The impact of recreational fishing on fish stocks remains largely unknown, as this is inherently difficult to monitor, especially in areas such as the Mediterranean Sea where many species are targeted using a variety of fishing gears and techniques. This study attempts to complement existing data sets and construct the profile of recreational fisheries in the EU‐Mediterranean countries using videos publicly available on social media. A total of 1526 video records were selected, featuring the capture of 7799 fish specimens. The results show recreational fishing is multispecies in nature (26 species contributed to >80% % of the most numerically important species caught) and exhibits a spatially homogeneous pattern, with differences in species composition being mostly dependent on the fishing technique used rather than on the country. Such findings fill an important knowledge gap on recreational fishing activities, and the methodology provides an innovative approach to gather statistics on data‐poor thematic areas that can potentially complement other data sets, such as the EU Data Collection Multi‐Annual Programme.
Endo‐sinus bone formation after transalveolar sinus floor elevation without grafting with simultaneous implant placement: Histological and histomorphometric assessment in a dog model
Authors: Qian Shu‐jiao , Mo Jia‐ji , Shi Jun‐yu , Gu Ying‐xin , Si Mi‐si , Lai Hong‐chang
Published: June 2018

Aim

To evaluate endo‐sinus new bone formation and implant osseointegration after transalveolar sinus floor elevation (TSFE) and simultaneous implant placement without any grafting materials and to investigate the influence of implant surface modification on bone healing process under this circumstance.

Materials and methods

Transalveolar sinus floor elevation and simultaneous implant placement were conducted bilaterally on 12 Labrador dogs. No grafting materials were used during surgery. Implants with two different surfaces (SLA and SLActive) were placed in a split‐mouth design. The animals were sacrificed 4, 8 and 24 weeks after surgery for histological and histomorphometric assessments. Bone‐to‐implant contact (BIC%), alveolar bone height (ABH) and the percentages of mineralized bone (MB%) in the area of interest were analysed. The probing depth (PD) and bleeding on probing (BOP) were also assessed to describe peri‐implant health conditions.

Results

Sprouts of new bone in direct contact with implant surface were seen in the elevated area at every time point. Newly formed woven bone under sinus membrane was visible. SLActive implants exhibited favourable results compared with SLA implants regarding ABH at 4 weeks and BIC% at 4 and 8 weeks. Sites with BOP positive could be observed in both groups at any time point. No newly formed bone can be found on the implant apex with either SLA or SLActive surfaces at any time point.

Conclusions

Spontaneous new bone formation from the parent bone walls could be observed after TFE without any grafting materials. No clear evidence of bone formation from the Schneiderian membrane could be found. Even though there were trends for quicker bone response of SLActive implants, this study failed to show the absolute advantage of SLActive in achieving endo‐sinus bone formation.
Prevalence, predictors and comorbidity of dry skin in the general population
Authors: Augustin M. , Kirsten N. , Körber A. , Wilsmann‐Theis D. , Itschert G. , Staubach‐Renz P. , Maul J‐T. , Zander N.
Published: June 2018

Background

Dry skin is a frequent and multifaceted condition which can be associated with skin irritation, itch, patient discomfort and manifest skin disease. In spite of being frequent, little is known about the epidemiology of dry skin in the population.

Objective

To determine the prevalence of dry skin in the German adult population.

Methods

Data of 48 630 employed persons were assessed on a cross‐sectional level in whole‐body examinations by experienced dermatologists during company‐based skin screenings conducted in 343 German companies. Next to the current dermatologic findings, age, gender, allergies, atopic diseases and the skin type were assessed.

Results

In total, n = 14 300 persons (29.4%) were rated as having xerotic skin. Older age but not gender was associated with xerosis. In the regression analyses controlling for age and gender, dry skin was a significant predictor for: axillary dermatitis (OR: 4.51; CI 2.70–7.54), atopic eczema (OR: 3.99; CI 3.42–4.65), exsiccation eczema (OR: 2.96; CI 2.40–3.65), psoriasis (OR: 1.57; CI 1.38–1.78), plantar warts (OR: 1.42; CI 1.26–1.60), seborrhoeic dermatitis (OR: 1.28; CI 1.16–1.42) and atopic disposition (OR: 1.17; CI 1.12–1.22).

Conclusion

Dry skin is a frequent condition in the adult general population and needs special attention. Known risk factors may facilitate identifying patients at risk for deterioration.
The need for a rationalist turn in evidence‐based medicine
Authors: Kelly Michael P.
Published: June 2018

When evidence‐based medicine (EBM) became established, its dominant rhetoric was empiricist, in spite of rationalist elements in its practice. Exploring some of the key statements about EBM down the years, the paper examines the tensions between empiricism and rationalism and argues for a rationalist turn in EBM to help to develop the next generation of scholarship in the field.
Approaches to 3D printing teeth from X‐ray microtomography
Authors: CRESSWELL‐BOYES A.J. , BARBER A.H. , MILLS D. , TATLA A. , DAVIS G.R.
Published: June 2018

Artificial teeth have several advantages in preclinical training. The aim of this study is to three‐dimensionally (3D) print accurate artificial teeth using scans from X‐ray microtomography (XMT). Extracted and artificial teeth were imaged at 90 kV and 40 kV, respectively, to create detailed high contrast scans. The dataset was visualised to produce internal and external meshes subsequently exported to 3D modelling software for modification before finally sending to a slicing program for printing. After appropriate parameter setting, the printer deposited material in specific locations layer by layer, to create a 3D physical model. Scans were manipulated to ensure a clean model was imported into the slicing software, where layer height replicated the high spatial resolution that was observed in the XMT scans. The model was then printed in two different materials (polylactic acid and thermoplastic elastomer). A multimaterial print was created to show the different physical characteristics between enamel and dentine.

Lay Description

Objectives

Trainee dentists practice procedures using artificial teeth that are far from real teeth. Using x‐rays and 3D printing technology the project will recreate a real tooth, artificially.

Methods

X‐rays produce a 3D image that can be printed out as a physical replica, after several conversions of files. Different settings can be used to allow the printed model, to be as accurate as possible. Data were collected on the forces from a dental drill on a tooth's surface, to measure hardness and resistance.

Results

Multiple teeth replicas were printed with a high accuracy. The materials printed did not mimic actual tooth properties, but using the data from real teeth, materials can be tested in future.