bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Differential oxidative costs of locomotory and genital damage in an orb-weaving spider
Authors: Mouginot Pierick , Uhl Gabriele , Toshkova Nia , Beaulieu Michaël
Published: December 2019

In animals that regularly experience tissue loss, physiological responses may have evolved to overcome the related costs. Changes in oxidative status may reflect such self-maintenance mechanisms. Here, we investigated how markers of oxidative status varied in female orb-weaving spiders (Larinia jeskovi) by mimicking two distinct types of tissue loss they may naturally encounter: damage to their locomotory system and damage to their external genital structure, as inflicted by males to females during copulation (external female genital mutilation). Damage to the locomotory system resulted in a significant shift in the oxidative status reflecting investment into self-maintenance. In contrast, the loss of the genital structure did not result in quantitative changes of oxidative markers. The lack of response to genital mutilation suggests that genital mutilation is physiologically not costly for female spiders. The cost incurred to females rather arises from genital mutilation preventing the females from remating with another male.
High-precision face-centered cubic–hexagonal close-packed volume-change determination in high-Mn steels by X-ray diffraction data refinements
Authors: Malamud Florencia , Castro Facundo , Guerrero Lina Maria , La Roca Paulo , Sade Marcos , Baruj Alberto
Published: December 2019

High-Mn steels attract attention because of their various technological properties. These are mainly mechanical and functional, such as the shape-memory effect, high damping capacity, high strength with simultaneous large ductility, the TRIP/TWIP (transformation- and twinning-induced plasticity) effect, low cycle fatigue and high work hardening capacity. All these phenomena are associated with the face-centered cubic (f.c.c.)–hexagonal close-packed (h.c.p.) martensitic transformation which takes place in these alloys. During this phase transition defects are introduced, mainly due to the large volume change between austenite and martensite. Knowing this volume change is key to understanding the mechanical behavior of these metallic systems. In the present article, a full-pattern refinement method is presented. The proposed method uses data obtained by means of conventional X-ray diffraction from regular bulk samples and allows a high-precision calculation of the lattice parameters of both phases, f.c.c. and h.c.p., under conditions very different from randomly oriented (powder) materials. In this work, the method is used to study the effect of chemical composition on the volume change between the two structures. By applying empirical models, the results enabled the design and fabrication of Fe–Mn-based alloys with a small volume change, showing the potential of this new tool in the search for improved materials.
BILMIX: a new approach to restore the size polydispersity and electron density profiles of lipid bilayers from liposomes using small-angle X-ray scattering data
Authors: Konarev Petr V. , Petoukhov Maxim V. , Dadinova Liubov A. , Fedorova Natalia V. , Volynsky Pavel E. , Svergun Dmitri I. , Batishchev Oleg V. , Shtykova Eleonora V.
Published: December 2019

Small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) is one of the major tools for the study of model membranes, but interpretation of the scattering data remains non-trivial. Current approaches allow the extraction of some structural parameters and the electron density profile of lipid bilayers. Here it is demonstrated that parametric modelling can be employed to determine the polydispersity of spherical or ellipsoidal vesicles and describe the electron density profile across the lipid bilayer. This approach is implemented in the computer program BILMIX. BILMIX delivers a description of the electron density of a lipid bilayer from SAXS data and simultaneously generates the corresponding size distribution of the unilamellar lipid vesicles.
Full-field spectroscopic measurement of the X-ray beam from a multilayer monochromator using a hyperspectral X-ray camera
Authors: Boone Matthieu N. , Van Assche Frederic , Vanheule Sander , Cipiccia Silvia , Wang Hongchang , Vincze Laszlo , Van Hoorebeke Luc
Published: December 2019

Multilayer monochromator devices are commonly used at (imaging) beamlines of synchrotron facilities to shape the X-ray beam to relatively small bandwidth and high intensity. However, stripe artefacts are often observed and can deteriorate the image quality. Although the intensity distribution of these artefacts has been described in the literature, their spectral distribution is currently unknown. To assess the spatio-spectral properties of the monochromated X-ray beam, the direct beam has been measured for the first time using a hyperspectral X-ray detector. The results show a large number of spectral features with different spatial distributions for a [Ru, B4C] strip monochromator, associated primarily with the higher-order harmonics of the undulator and monochromator. It is found that their relative contributions are sufficiently low to avoid an influence on the imaging data. The [V, B4C] strip suppresses these high-order harmonics even more than the former, yet at the cost of reduced efficiency.
N,N′-Bis(pyridin-3-ylmethyl)ethanediamide monohydrate: crystal structure, Hirshfeld surface analysis and computational study
Authors: Tan Sang Loon , Tiekink Edward R. T.
Published: December 2019

The molecular structure of the title bis-pyridyl substituted diamide hydrate, C14H14N4O2·H2O, features a central C2N2O2residue (r.m.s. deviation = 0.0205 Å) linked at each end to 3-pyridyl rings through methylene groups. The pyridyl rings lie to the same side of the plane,i.e.have asyn-periplanar relationship, and form dihedral angles of 59.71 (6) and 68.42 (6)° with the central plane. An almost orthogonal relationship between the pyridyl rings is indicated by the dihedral angle between them [87.86 (5)°]. Owing to anantidisposition between the carbonyl-O atoms in the core, two intramolecular amide-N—H...O(carbonyl) hydrogen bonds are formed, each closing anS(5) loop. Supramolecular tapes are formed in the crystalviaamide-N—H...O(carbonyl) hydrogen bonds and ten-membered {...HNC2O}2synthons. Two symmetry-related tapes are linked by a helical chain of hydrogen-bonded water moleculesviawater-O—H...N(pyridyl) hydrogen bonds. The resulting aggregate is parallel to theb-axis direction. Links between these,viamethylene-C—H...O(water) and methylene-C—H...π(pyridyl) interactions, give rise to a layer parallel to (10\overline{1}); the layers stack without directional interactions between them. The analysis of the Hirshfeld surfaces point to the importance of the specified hydrogen-bonding interactions, and to the significant influence of the water molecule of crystallization upon the molecular packing. The analysis also indicates the contribution of methylene-C—H...O(carbonyl) and pyridyl-C—H...C(carbonyl) contacts to the stability of the inter-layer region. The calculated interaction energies are consistent with importance of significant electrostatic attractions in the crystal.
Sethusamudram Shipping Canal Project: In Need of Divine Intervention
Authors: K Chandrasekaran , Bhardwaj Sachin , Jain Shipra , Sahani Rohit Singh , Baliga Akansha , Sarkar Prashant , Raghuram G.
Published: December 2019

The case looks at the Sethusamudram Shipping Canal Project from its inception in the year 1860 to 2012 when the Pachauri Committee was about to submit a report on the latest canal alignment (4A) as suggested by the Supreme Court. It takes the reader through a series of developments starting from the initial proposals and alignments to formation of Sethusamudram Corporation Limited and highlights the impact of National Environmental Engineering Research Institute Report, Tsunami Detailed Project Report, and Subramaniam Swamy Report on various issues including environmental, political, religious, security and legal. The case brings out multi-dimensional aspects involved in an Indian infrastructure project and gives both students and the faculty an opportunity to explore the complexities faced by the Indian decision makers in today's context.
Delhi Metro Rail Corporation's Communication with the Media
Authors: Sharma Meenakshi
Published: December 2019

As a new corporation, the Delhi Metro (DMRC) began its relationship with the media, with a clean slate, and its care with the public relations function made for the establishment of a very cordial relationship with the print media and led to positive image building in the public eye. However, with the rise of electronic media and the proliferating channels' greater emphasis on sensationalism, the warmth in the relations began to subside. A major standoff with the electronic media and the experience of accidents during construction of Phase II of the project, led to the restructuring of the approach to media relations as well as internal restructuring of the PR department. The challenges and major incidents turned out to be hard-learnt lessons in managing the media in a dynamic environment.
Natural Gas Pricing in India
Authors: Mahapatra Diptiranjan , Dholakia Ravindra H.
Published: December 2019

Pricing of natural gas in India suffers from asymmetry because of the presence of limited suppliers having byzantine contracts. The oligopolistic market combined with price regulation results in welfare losses, and market failure. We argue that for the sake of long-term development of natural gas sector in fast developing economies like India, the long-run marginal cost (LRMC) seems to be the most suitable pricing policy. In the case analysis, we present a theoretical framework of calculating LRMC while acknowledging that the conditions necessary for a ‘first-best world’ rarely exist. We conclude that it is very much possible to gradually move from the existing ad-hoc pricing mechanism to a more robust LRMC regime that takes into account not just the production cost but also a scarcity premium as well as any externalities resulting from the natural-gas fuel cycle. The outcome based on our model compares very well with the one from the Rangarajan Committee's formula that got the government's nod recently for fixing of price of indigenously produced natural gas, to be effective from 01st April 2014.
Pitfalls in Single Stock Futures
Authors: Varma Jayanth R.
Published: December 2019

The case describes two episodes where the basic valuation model (cost of carry model) for single stock futures appears to break down. The first involves market manipulation and the second involves an unexpected change in the record date for an already announced dividend. This breakdown leads to large losses for the participant in these futures markets.
Coastal Gujarat Power Limited
Authors: Sinha Sidharth
Published: December 2019

The Tata owned Coastal Gujarat Power Limited is seeking to reopen Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) with state owned distribution utilities because of increase in imported coal prices resulting from a change in Indonesian laws. The Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (CERC) has decided to provide relief through a “compensatory tariff”. This is opposed by the power purchasers. Simultaneously, another Reliance Energy owned power project is seeking relief from unprecedented change in exchange rates using the CGPL decision as a precedent. The CERC and the power purchasers have to decide what to do next.
Delhi Airport Metro: PPP in Distress
Authors: Sinha Sidharth
Published: December 2019

This case provides an opportunity to discuss the design and implementation of a Public Private Partnership project. It describes the Delhi Airport Metro Express Line project from conception to completion, and the subsequent dispute between the Public and Private partners leading to the Concession Agreement going into arbitration. Students discuss the reasons for failure and come up with suggestions for another metro rail project currently in the design stage.
Tihar Jail Products – Branding, Distribution and Communication Strategy
Authors: Sharma Dheeraj
Published: December 2019

Tihar Jail (TJ), one of the largest prisons in the world also functions as a reformation and rehabilitation centre. As a part of this effort, it operates a factory and a baking school in its premises. A consultant had been employed by Tihar Jail to find solutions for the stagnation in sales revenue despite marketing quality products and garnering good reviews from customers. This case is suitable for first-year MBA-level course in marketing management as well as for more-focused courses in product marketing strategy, business strategy, consumer behaviour, organizational behaviour, sales and distribution, or public policy.
Cerenity Sanitizer: Marketing Research for New Product Launch (A)
Authors: Jaiswal Anand Kumar , Singh Sachin Kumar , Manu A
Published: December 2019

The case deals with the application of marketing research for launching a new product in the market place. The company was planning to enter the Fast Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) market in India with its new product Cerenity. Cerenity was a toilet seat sanitizer for women who frequently use public restrooms. The case describes the exploratory study conducted by the research team. The team used different qualitative marketing research tools such as focus groups, in-depth Interviews and participant observations.
GiveIndia - The Business of Philanthropy
Authors: Tripathi Sanjeev , Bhasker Shashank
Published: December 2019

GiveIndia is an online donation platform that bridges the gap between the donors and credible Non-Governmental Organizations. The focus of GiveIndia has been on individual donations with a vision to create a culture of giving, where every Indian donates at least 2% of their income for the poor. In 2013, the Government of India introduced Corporate Social Responsibility Bill, which mandates corporates to invest at least 2% of their profits in CSR activities. At present, GiveIndia has not been seeking corporate, but now they find themselves at the right position to exploit this opportunity. Dhaval, the CEO faces a dilemma. Corporate donations could significantly increase his funding; however, it could also lead deviations from the mission to creating a giving culture. There were other problems to contend with, such as the question of investing in GiveIndia brand, how to pitch business reasons for philanthropy and employee compensation and retention issues.
NTPC Public Offer
Authors: Barua Samir K. , Agarwalla Sobhesh Kumar
Published: December 2019

Disinvestment of government shareholding in Public Sector Undertakings, through Public Offers, is a common occurrence in many economies. This case describes such a process of disinvestment of the government of India's stake in a large power utility, National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC) in India. In addition to process details, the case contains information and data that make it possible to rigorously analyze the response of market participants and the resulting changes in the prices of shares of NTPC before, during and after the public offer.
Revenue Management in India: The Pioneering Story of Implementation in Taj Group of Hotels in India
Authors: Dutta Goutam
Published: December 2019

This is the first implementation of Revenue Management System in a major international hotel chain in India. The case describes the history of development, corporate story of overdrive for profit, system integration issues. It describes two components of a revenue management system, forecasting and optimization. It also raises several questions that need to be addressed before implementing a RMS.
Ispaat Parivahan Limited: Additional Fleet Acquisition
Authors: Raghuram G , Chakraborty Souhardhya
Published: December 2019

This case focuses on the issue of additional fleet acquisition by Ispaat Parivahan Limited (IPL) for its contract obligation fulfilment with Solid Steel Limited. As per contract, IPL was to transport overall 15,000 tons per month (tpm) till July 31, 2015 to the North and West. But IPL failed to uphold its part of the contract and fell short of the target for the North. IPL could transport only 12,800 tpm, leading to a penalty payment. To avoid this, the company proposed acquisition of more fleet. One of the issues was additional time due to return loads. The Board wanted IPL to assess scenarios with and without return loads.
The karma of consumption: role of materialism in the pursuit of life satisfaction
Authors: Roy Rajat , Rabbanee Fazlul K. , Roy Chaudhuri Himadri , Menon Preetha
Published: December 2019

Purpose

This paper aims to examine how social comparison (SC) and belief in karma (KA) encourage materialism (MAT) and promote consumers’ life satisfaction (LS).

Design/methodology/approach

Two studies were conducted with Indian middle class consumers to test the basic premises of the current research. The first one used a survey (N = 247), while the second one used an experimental design (N = 206).

Findings

The survey results showed that SC and belief in KA promoted MAT amongst Indian consumers and further enhanced their LS. Findings from the experiment revealed a novel two-way interaction, in that the KA–MAT relationship was moderated by the underlying motivation for MAT.

Research limitations/implications

Future research may validate and extend our findings using different samples to increase external validity.

Practical implications

By explaining the interactive effects of MAT, its underlying motivation and belief in KA, managers will gain a better understanding of why consumers in an emerging market like India purchase conspicuous products.

Originality/value

This is the first paper to study how the KA–MAT relationship influences LS amongst consumers in the world’s fastest-rising economy. Furthermore, no prior research has reported a boundary condition for the KA–MAT relationship studied here. The findings contribute to an extremely limited body of literature on KA and consumption.
A systematic literature review on Sustainable Lean Six Sigma
Authors: Parmar Pranay Sureshbhai , Desai Tushar N.
Published: December 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to determine the current status of Sustainable Lean Six Sigma (SLSS) practices execution in the industries by identifying the research gaps and also methodologies that are applied by different researchers and practitioners.

Design/methodology/approach

To find the current status of SLSS practices all over world, the literature review of the articles available through SCOPUS data base is given in different categories such as a country-wise and year-wise publication of the articles, journal-wise publication of articles, case study implementation focus in industry and data analysis techniques used by the researchers.

Findings

The different methodologies applied by the researchers and practitioners have been explained and the gaps for further research are identified. The extensive review of articles of last 18 years revealed that there are various opportunities such as quantitative study, framework modeling on the SLSS, and implementation of developed models in different industries, etc. which are required to be explored.

Originality/value

In the present study, a review of 129 articles for the time span of January 2000 to February 2018 is considered. The SCOPUS database was used for selecting the articles for review. A total of 129 articles were considered for the literature review, and the case study implementation in different industries with the focused areas such as cost reduction, defect reduction, economic, environmental and social aspects was explained.
Bundling in public–private partnership projects – a conceptual framework
Authors: Dolla Tharun , Laishram Boeing
Published: December 2019

Purpose

The performance of public–private partnership (PPP) projects depends on how the project has been structured. The traditional PPP option analysis for structuring project scope and size relating to the bundling of functions concerning a single component of the value chain will need to be extended to handle multi-component sectors such as municipal solid waste (MSW) in formulating the project scope. This analysis is currently missing in the extant literature. The paper aims to discuss these issues.

Design/methodology/approach

Through a comprehensive literature review as the methodological backbone, this study develops a testable holistic framework for the procurement of MSW PPP projects that examines how various factors of bundling affect the performance of the PPP projects.

Findings

Using transaction cost economics, agency and auction theories, the review identifies that innovation, maturity, quality specifiability, scope, competition, information asymmetries and transaction attributes have a significant influence on the performance and success of the PPP projects.

Research limitations/implications

Alternative supply chain management possibilities and firm-level organisational ways can be predicted using this framework to strategize the solutions for the municipal infrastructure. Based on this contribution, future research can test the framework to increase the knowledge of bundling theory about how to structure network infrastructure PPP projects.

Originality/value

Studies on how to bundle/unbundle the projects having components of the value chain are in a nascent stage. The present study attempts to extend the body of knowledge on PPP to the complexity of bundling both the functions and components of the value chain in structuring the PPP project scope.
Fretting friction properties of laser surface texture microfilaments
Authors: Li Ke , Dong Xiuping , Huang Mingji , Chen Ping
Published: December 2019

Purpose

This paper aims to improve the wear resistance of metal rubber microfilaments and the service life. The effect of surface texture by laser processing on the fretting friction properties of metal rubber microfilaments was studied.

Design/methodology/approach

The LQL-F20A laser marking machine was used to fabricate a ring groove array with equal spacing and dense arrangement on the surface of metal rubber microfilaments. The test was carried out with a self-made micro-dynamic frictional tester. The topography of the microfilaments was observed by scanning electron microscopy and analyzed.

Findings

It has shown that laser surface texturing can improve the wear performance of microfilaments. Under the same experimental conditions, the microfilaments of textured surface has a smaller depth of wear than un-textured specimen. The wear resistance increases with the increase of texture density. The friction coefficient of textured specimen is significantly reduced compared with un-textured specimen, and the surface texture density of microfilaments has little influence on the friction coefficient after stabilization. In the stage of stable fretting wear, the wear depth will be more with the increase of the load.

Originality/value

There is little research on metal rubber microfilaments tribological properties. In this paper, the effect of laser texturing of microfilaments on micro-dynamic friction properties was studied by friction machine to provide a reference for the application of metal rubber in aerospace, medical and other fields.
Improving information spread by spreading groups
Authors: Sela Alon , Milo Orit , Kagan Eugene , Ben-Gal Irad
Published: December 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to propose a novel method to enhance the spread of messages in social networks by “Spreading Groups.” These sub-structures of highly connected accounts intentionally echo messages between the members of the subgroup at the early stages of a spread. This echoing further boosts the spread to regions substantially larger than the initial region. These spreading accounts can be actual humans or social bots.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper reveals an interesting anomaly in information cascades in Twitter and proposes the spreading group model that explains this anomaly. The model was tested using an agent-based simulation, real Twitter data and questionnaires.

Findings

The messages of few anonymous Twitter accounts spread on average more than well-known global financial media groups, such as The Wall Street Journal or Bloomberg. The spreading groups (also sometimes called BotNets) model provides an effective mechanism that can explain these findings.

Research limitations/implications

Spreading groups are only one possible mechanism that can explain the effectiveness of spread of tweets from lesser known accounts. The implication of this work is in showing how spreading groups can be used as a mechanism to spread messages in social networks. The construction of spreading groups is rather technical and does not require using opinion leaders. Similar to the case of “Fake News,” we expect the topic of spreading groups and their aim to manipulate information to receive growing attention in public discussion.

Practical implications

While harnessing opinion leaders to spread messages is costly, constructing spreading groups is more technical and replicable. Spreading groups are an efficient method to amplify the spread of message in social networks.

Social implications

With the blossoming of fake news, one might tend to assess the reliability of news by the number of users involved in its spread. This heuristic might be easily fooled by spreading groups. Furthermore, spreading groups consisting of a blend of human and computerized bots might be hard to detect. They can be used to manipulate financial markets or political campaigns.

Originality/value

The paper demonstrates an anomaly in Twitter that was not studied before. It proposes a novel approach to spreading messages in social networks. The methods presented in the paper are valuable for anyone interested in spreading messages or an agenda such as political actors or other agenda enthusiasts. While social bots have been widely studied, their synchronization to increase the spread is novel.
Promoting employee job crafting at work: the roles of motivation and team context
Authors: Lee Jeong Won , Song Youjeong
Published: December 2019

Purpose

Despite receiving much attention in recent job design literature, job crafting research has neglected motivational and multilevel perspectives, limiting the understanding of how to foster employee job crafting. Drawing on job crafting and self-determination theory, the purpose of this paper is to explore individual- and team-level predictors and the mechanisms involved in employees’ job change behaviors. The authors propose that employees’ intrinsic motivation and two team-level properties – team knowledge sharing and trust – have important roles to play.

Design/methodology/approach

The multilevel data were collected from 311 employees from 62 work teams in Korean companies. Hierarchical linear modeling analysis was used. A supplementary data collected from 162 individuals working in the USA were used for analysis.

Findings

The results showed that intrinsic motivation and team knowledge sharing are positively related to job crafting. In addition, intrinsic motivation mediated the relationship between team knowledge and individual job crafting. Finally, team trust was shown to play a cross-level moderating role, strengthening the positive relationship between employees’ intrinsic motivation and job crafting.

Originality/value

Applying motivational and multilevel perspectives, this paper uncovers the roles of individual motivation and team context in fostering employee job crafting. This study helps to extend the theoretical domains of job crafting and provides practical insights into how to promote employees’ job crafting.
Low-cost bus business models and the case of Brazil
Authors: Marx Roberto , Magalhães Pedro Siqueira de , Lara Felipe Ferreira de
Published: December 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to identify low-costbus business models from different parts of the world and check their applicability in the Brazilian market. It also identifies crucial factors for the development of that kind of business and investigates the relationship between low-cost buses and other modes of transport. This research analyzes every relevant aspect to the applicability of low-cost business models in Brazil, driving to discussions and conclusions. The gains on the development of low-cost bus systems in Brazil may have a wide reach, from personal to general public benefits.

Design/methodology/approach

Business models for low-cost bus systems are used to analyze in a qualitative approach. The data are collected through semi-structured interviews, direct observations and documental basis. In addition, innovations over the previous five years are evaluated in order to establish a comparative pattern between companies.

Findings

There is a great potential in the Brazilian passenger market for the entrance of low-cost bus companies. The only question is just when it is the right time to enter that market. Most of the negative points presented for the implementation of a low-cost company are related to the current economical and political crisis in Brazil. It was identified as a potential cause for the overall decrease of the passengers market in recent years, and specifically of the bus passengers market.

Originality/value

The recent regulation changes, the high demand for passengers and even the similarity of possible routes in Brazil to the ones in Europe and in the USA make Brazil a fertile soil for the development of that kind of business. A similar price mechanism to the ones applied worldwide was also identified as doable in Brazil.
Adipose‐derived stromal/stem cells successfully attenuate the fibrosis of scleroderma mouse models
Authors: Okamura Ai , Matsushita Takashi , Komuro Akito , Kobayashi Tadahiro , Maeda Shintaro , Hamaguchi Yasuhito , Takehara Kazuhiko
Published: December 2019

Aim

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an autoimmune disease characterized by skin and lung fibrosis. Although SSc has a high mortality risk, an effective treatment for the disease has not been established yet. Mesenchymal stromal/stem cells (MSCs) are multipotential nonhematopoietic progenitor cells that have the ability to regulate immune responses. Adipose‐derived stromal/stem cells (ASCs), one of the types of MSCs, have the advantage of accessibility and potent immunomodulatory effects when compared with other MSCs, such as bone marrow‐derived MSCs. This study aimed to investigate the antifibrotic effect of ASCs in scleroderma mouse models, including bleomycin‐induced scleroderma and sclerodermatous chronic graft‐versus‐host disease (Scl‐cGVHD) models.

Method

ASCs were intravenously administered to a bleomycin‐induced scleroderma or Scl‐cGVHD model on day 0. We compared the skin and lung fibrosis of scleroderma model mice between the ASC‐treated group and control group.

Results

Administration of ASCs attenuated the skin and lung fibrosis of bleomycin‐induced scleroderma and Scl‐cGVHD model mice compared to that in the control mice. Immunohistochemical staining showed that ASCs suppressed the infiltration of CD4+, CD8+ T cells and macrophages into the dermis of bleomycin model mice compared to that in control mice. In addition, ASCs attenuated the messenger RNA expression of collagen and fibrogenic cytokines, such as interleukin (IL)‐6 and IL‐13, in the skin of bleomycin model mice. ASCs also reduced the frequency of fibrogenic cytokine‐producing CD4+ T cells and effector B cells in the spleen of bleomycin model mice.

Conclusion

ASCs could prove to be a potential therapeutic agent for use in patients with SSc.
Mini flash crashes: Review, taxonomy and policy responses
Authors: Laly Floris , Petitjean Mikael
Published: December 2019

We focus on extreme price movements known as mini flash crashes (MFCs). After reviewing the literature, we provide a taxonomy based on a sample of MFCs identified by Nanex on the U.S. financial markets over a three‐year period. We detect significant differences between crashes and exchanges. In comparison to ‘up crashes’, we find that ‘down crashes’ exhibit lower absolute returns but have longer duration. We also show that the dynamics of MCFs varies across exchanges. For example, the MFCs on ARCA are on average both less severe and shorter in duration than those on the NASDAQ. We finally review all the key implications of MCFs in terms of public policy.
Remembering the City: Changing Conceptions of Community in Urban China
Authors: Manley Andrew , Silk Michael
Published: December 2019

Adopting complimentary integrative research methodologies, this article examines changing conceptions of community among urban residents within the city of Suzhou, Jiangsu province, China. Through local residents’ past memories, “everyday” experiences of (former) urban communities, and reflections on a particular way of life, we focus upon the subjective/affective meanings and memories attached to processes of urban change. We place emphasis on the manner in which residents make sense of sociospatial transformations in relation to the (re)making of community, local social interaction, and a sense of belonging. Discussion centers on the affective and embodied notions of a particular way of life in (older) communities; sensory performances that were deemed difficult to replicate within modern development zones and the broader field of contemporary Chinese society.
Relationship to Place for Older Adults in a New York City Neighborhood Undergoing Gentrification: A Discourse Analysis
Authors: Weil Joyce
Published: December 2019

While many older adults live in neighborhoods undergoing gentrification, research rarely explores their narratives about the gentrification process and their relationships with gentrifiers. This study uses discourse analysis of ethnographic data in Queens, NY, to identify repertoires in older adults’ narratives about the meaning of place and gentrification. Five distinct repertoires emerged: (1) gentrification brings a discussion of losses; (2) talk of the insider versus outsider claim to space; (3) social connectivity phrased as a strength during gentrification; (4) statements about adaptation strategies used to buffer change; and (5) language about neighborhood change as good—even during gentrification. These repertoires show older residents seek to understand and validate their role in a changing place. Their individual dialogues echo discussions and power differentials in their larger social worlds. Older persons’ repertoires illustrate the struggle to contextualize gentrification and not simply homogenize the process or create only limited, stereotypical insider–outsider arguments.
Donor history of malignancy: A limited risk for heart transplant recipients
Authors: Rudasill Sarah E. , Iyengar Amit , Sanaiha Yas , Khoury Habib , Mardock Alexandra L. , Sareh Sohail , Benharash Peyman
Published: December 2019

Organ donor contraindications are frequently reassessed for impact on recipient outcomes in attempt to meet demand for transplantation. This study retrospectively analyzed the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) registry for adult heart transplants from 1987 to September 2016 to characterize the impact of donor malignancy history in heart transplantation. Kaplan‐Meier estimates illustrated 10‐year survival. Propensity score matching was utilized for 1:1 matching of donors with and without history of malignancy, and Cox proportional hazards and logistic regressions were used to analyze the matched population. Of 38 781 heart transplants, 622 (1.6%) had a donor history of malignancy. Cox regressions demonstrated that donor malignancy predicted increased 10‐year mortality (HR = 1.16 [1.01‐1.33]), but this difference did not persist when conditioned upon 1 year post‐transplant survival (log‐rank = 0.643). Cox regressions of the propensity score‐matched population (455 pairs) found no association between donor malignancy and 10‐year mortality (HR = 1.02 [0.84‐1.24]). Older age and higher rates of hypertension were observed in donors with a history of malignancy whose recipients died within the first year post‐transplant. Therefore, increased recipient mortality is likely due to donor characteristics beyond malignancy, creating the potential for expanded donor selection.
Comparison of 3D‐assisted surgery and conservative methods for treatment of type III fractures of the distal phalanx in horses
Authors: Heer C. , Fürst A. E. , Del Chicca F. , Jackson M. A.
Published: December 2019

The aim of this retrospective study was to compare the outcome of conservative methods and 3D‐assisted surgery for treatment of type III fractures of the distal phalanx with regard to recovery time and the development of osteoarthritis (OA) in the distal interphalangeal joint (DIPJ). The medical records of all horses with type III fracture of the distal phalanx referred to the Equine Department, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, between 1992 and 2016 were reviewed. The severity of lameness at initial examination, radiographic evaluation, treatment (conservative, group A; 3D‐assisted surgery, group B), complications, outcome and recovery time were determined. Follow‐up examinations included clinical and radiographic examinations. Of 33 horses, 15 received conservative treatment and 18 underwent surgery. Eleven of the 15 (73.3%) horses in group A returned to their intended use and four were subjected to euthanasia or remained chronically lame. The median recovery time was 240 days (95% CI, 180–374). Thirteen of 15 (86.7%) horses developed OA of the DIPJ within 5 months of the fracture. In group B, 16 of 17 (94.1%) horses returned to their intended use, one horse remained chronically lame, and one horse was subjected to euthanasia because of unrelated reasons. The median recovery time was 139 days (95% CI, 120–270), and seven horses (38.9%) developed OA of the DIPJ within 5 months of the fracture. Overall, the screws had to be removed in five fluoroscopic‐assisted surgery cases (three because of implant infection and two because of severe lameness), in one computer‐assisted surgery case due to severe lameness and in one computed tomography‐assisted surgery case because of implant infection. In conclusion, there was no significant difference in time for recovery of type III fractures of the distal phalanx between the two groups, but surgical treatment led to significantly fewer cases of OA in the DIPJ as determined by subjective radiographic evaluation (P = 0.015).
An overview of turoctocog alfa pegol (N8‐GP; ESPEROCT®) assay performance: Implications for postadministration monitoring
Authors: Ezban Mirella , Hansen Martin , Kjalke Marianne
Published: December 2019

Factor replacement therapy with factor VIII (FVIII) concentrates is the current standard of care for patients with haemophilia A. Postadministration monitoring of FVIII activity during on‐demand or prophylactic treatment is important, for example to guide a suitable dosing regimen. While the use of two‐stage chromogenic substrate (CS) assays is increasing, activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT)‐based one‐stage clotting (OSC) assays are most commonly used to measure FVIII activity in clinical laboratories. Substantial variations in activity measurements have been observed in association with some OSC assay reagents when assessing extended half‐life FVIII molecules. Certain silica‐based APTT reagents have previously been shown to underestimate FVIII activity with the polyethylene glycol (PEG)‐conjugated product turoctocog alfa pegol (N8‐GP [ESPEROCT®]; Novo Nordisk A/S). As a wide range of assay reagents are used in clinical laboratories worldwide, it is essential to establish which can be used to accurately measure activity with modified FVIII concentrates. Here, we describe the approach taken by Novo Nordisk to determine the suitability and accuracy of assays and reagents to measure FVIII activity in samples that contain N8‐GP. While accurate activity measurements were possible with all tested CS assays and most of the OSC APTT reagents tested, three APTT reagents that contain silica as a contact activator were found to underestimate N8‐GP recovery (APTT‐SP, TriniCLOT™, STA® PTT‐Automate). The data demonstrate the importance of characterizing the accuracy of each FVIII activity assay. Any limitations should be communicated to treating physicians and the clinical laboratories that test samples containing N8‐GP.
Inflammation, etiologies and Model for End‐stage Liver Disease score: What makes liver disease patients susceptible to developing colorectal neoplasia?
Authors: Troschel Amelie S. , Miks Alexander , Hüsing‐Kabar Anna , Heinzow Hauke S. , Schmidt Hartmut H. , Troschel Fabian M. , Kabar Iyad
Published: December 2019

Aim

Research has identified patients with chronic liver disease as a risk group for colorectal neoplasia. In this study, we aimed to identify liver disease subgroups at enhanced risk of developing colorectal neoplasia, as well as causal factors.

Methods

The present retrospective study included patients with chronic liver disease undergoing colonoscopy during liver transplantation evaluations, and liver‐healthy patients as part of the German screening protocol. We assessed inflammatory laboratory values, Model for End‐stage Liver Disease score, portal hypertension, and liver disease etiologies as explanatory variables. Outcomes included polyps, adenomas, high‐risk situations, and colorectal cancer, tested in uni‐ and multivariable analyses.

Results

A total of 1046 patients were included, 407 with liver disease, 639 without. Alcohol‐toxic, metabolic, cryptogenic, non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease, and hepatocellular carcinoma were significantly associated with colorectal neoplasia, as were low compared with high Model for End‐stage Liver Disease scores. Portal hypertension showed no associations with neoplasia. Inflammatory markers were associated with colorectal neoplasia, independent of liver disease severity.

Conclusions

Low Model for End‐stage Liver Disease score, inflammatory markers, and certain etiologies were associated with colorectal neoplasia. Our findings suggest that inflammation may play an important role in the development of colonic adenomas in patients with chronic liver disease. Findings need to be confirmed in prospective studies, but may allow risk stratification and, possibly, development of prophylactic treatments.
Immediate clinical and microbiological evaluation of the effectiveness of 0.5% versus 3% sodium hypochlorite in root canal treatment: A quasi‐randomized controlled trial
Authors: Ulin C. , Magunacelaya‐Barria M. , Dahlén G. , Kvist T.
Published: December 2019

Aim

To test the hypothesis that in the daily routine of a specialist clinic in endodontics that irrigation during root canal preparation with 3.0% NaOCl will result in fewer postoperative samples with cultivable bacteria than irrigation with 0.5% buffered NaOCl but, at the same time, will not result in a higher frequency of postoperative pain nor swelling.

Methodology

Two hundred ninety‐eight patients were enrolled in the study and were randomly assigned into two groups – 0.5% NaOCl and 3% NaOCl. All endodontic diagnoses were included. Root canal treatment was performed, and bacterial sampling was carried out prior to root filling. The patients were requested to complete a form regarding pain and swelling seven days postoperatively. Fisher’s exact test, Mann–Whitney U‐test, Mantel–Haenszel chi‐squared and the chi‐squared test with a significance level of P < 0.05 were used for statistical analysis. Multivariable logistic regression was used to adjust for confounders.

Results

In the 0.5% NaOCl group, 18 (13.4%) of the root canal samples were positive; in the 3% NaOCl group, the corresponding number was 24 (18.6%). The mean difference of −5.2% (95% CI: −14.8 to 4.4) was not significant (P = 0.33). In the 0.5% NaOCl group, 57 (53.8%) patients reported some pain; in the 3% group, the corresponding number was 56 (53.3%). The mean difference of 0.4 (95% CI: −14.0 to 14.8) was not significant (P = 1.0). In the 0.5% NaOCl group, 5 (5.1%) patients reported swelling; in the 3% NaOCl group, the corresponding number was 18 (17.8%). The mean difference was 12.7 (95% CI: 3.1–22.4), which was significant (P = 0.0084).

Conclusions

The difference in the concentration of NaOCl (0.5% vs 3%) had no significant impact on the number of positive cultures and did not influence either the frequency or the magnitude of postoperative pain. A significantly higher incidence of postoperative swelling was recorded for patients who received a greater concentration of NaOCl (3%).
Drug‐eluting versus bare‐metal stents for saphenous vein graft lesions
Authors: Conte Sean M. , Florisson Daniel S. , De Bono Joshua A. , Vale Peter R.
Published: December 2019

A best evidence topic was written addressing the question ‘in patients with saphenous vein graft lesions requiring percutaneous coronary intervention, do long‐term clinical outcomes differ between drug‐eluting and bare‐metal stents?’ Altogether 1466 papers were found, of which seven represented the best evidence. Although one major recent randomised trial was neutral, the weight of earlier evidence supports drug‐eluting stents as standard of care. Bare‐metal stents may represent a reasonable, efficacious, and less expensive alternative to drug‐eluting stents in well selected patient groups.
Unique approach to continuing medical education in clinical pharmacology across Australia and New Zealand
Authors: Athavale Akshay , Murnion Bridin
Published: December 2019

Background

Advanced physician training in clinical pharmacology lacks a continuing education programme. There is a need for continuing medical education but how to introduce and develop education remains unclear.

Aims

The primary aim was to develop and implement a peer‐led, web‐based multiple choice question approach to continuing education in clinical pharmacology training across Australia and New Zealand. Secondary aims included determining, quality, difficulty, utility, relevance, user‐friendliness, sustainability and potential to form part of formal clinical pharmacology physician training.

Methods

In February 2018, a survey of clinical pharmacology trainees identified topics for question development. Questions covering requested topics were developed and piloted in PeerWise between March and October 2018. Participants could rate quality and difficulty of questions using categorical rating scales and make free text comments. After questions were piloted, a survey using a 0–10‐point Likert scale and yes/no responses assessed utility, relevance, user‐friendliness, sustainability and formalisation potential.

Results

Twenty‐four trainees were invited to participate. Nine (38%) of trainees completed the initial survey, 10 (42%) attempted questions and 7 (29%) completed the end survey. Median scores of 8.00 (IQR 6.50 – 9.00), 7.00 (IQR 6.50 – 7.50) and 8.00 (IQR 6.50 – 8.00) using a 0–10‐point Likert scale indicated trainees found this approach useful, relevant and user‐friendly. Five (71%) out of seven responding trainees felt this approach was sustainable and could be incorporated as part of formal clinical training.

Conclusion

This study suggests that peer‐led multiple choice questions could form an enduring education modality which could be incorporated into clinical pharmacology training.
Changes in behavioural synchrony during dog‐assisted therapy for children with autism spectrum disorder and children with Down syndrome
Authors: Griffioen Richard Eric , van der Steen Steffie , Verheggen Theo , Enders‐Slegers Marie‐Jose , Cox Ralf
Published: December 2019

Background

Dog‐assisted therapy (DAT) is hypothesized to help children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and Down syndrome (DS).

Methods

The present authors compared synchronous movement patterns of these children (n = 10) and their therapy dogs during the first and last session of a DAT programme, and their post‐therapy changes in emotional and behavioural problems.

Results

The present authors found a significant increase in synchrony between child and therapy dog over time. Exploratory analyses suggest more synchrony between children with ASD and their therapy dogs, compared to the children with DS.

Conclusions

This study is the first to test the synchrony hypothesis, shedding light upon a mechanism that may underlie the effect of DAT and how this may be different for children with ASD and DS.