bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of duration of altrenogest treatment on farrowing rate and litter size of gilts
Authors: De Rensis F. , Mazzoni C. , Saleri R. , Scollo A. , Plush K. J. , Kirkwood R. N.
Published: December 2017

The objective of the present study was to compare two common durations of altrenogest (ALT) feeding during different periods of the year on the fertility of gilts after ALT withdrawal. During a 12-month period gilt replacements that were assumed to be cyclic were subjected to oestrus synchronisation with 15 mg/day ALT administered for 18 days (ALT-18; n = 268) or 14 days (ALT-14; n = 153) whereas 275 non-treated gilts served as controls. Fewer ALT-14 than ALT-18 gilts expressed oestrus by 7 days after last ALT treatment (79.1% vs 88.8%; P < 0.05). Farrowing rate was lower (P < 0.05) for ALT-14 than for the other groups (81%, 91% and 92% for ALT-14, ALT-18, and Control, respectively) but farrowing rates were not affected by time of year. Control litter sizes were not different from ALT-14 except during September to November when Control litter sizes were larger than either ALT treatments (13.6 ± 0.33, 12.3 ± 0.65 and 12.7 ± 0.39 for Control, ALT-14 and ALT-18, respectively; P < 0.05). The ALT-18 gilts had larger litter sizes during January to August. The present data suggest that the appropriate duration of ALT feeding to synchronise oestrus in gilts is 18 days.
Land-use change on Mount Gede, Indonesia, reduced native earthworm populations and diversity
Authors: Darmawan Andy , Atmowidi Tri , Manalu Wasmen , Suryobroto Bambang
Published: December 2017

The conversion of natural forest to agroforestry plantations and annual cropping systems alters the soil habitat and food resources for biota, including earthworms. Native earthworm species may disappear whereas exotic species with greater tolerance of disturbance and less niche specialisation may thrive. The objective of the study was to compare the earthworm diversity in managed forest and agroforestry systems, which were cultivated for mixed plantation and annual crop production on Mount Gede, Indonesia. All the habitats in the study area were impacted by humans. The forest habitat was a managed forest, with a permanent tree cover, whereas mixed plantation had a partial shrub cover. Meanwhile, homogenous plantation was cultivated with annual crops. Among 3787 individuals collected during July–October 2012, five Oriental earthworm species were identified in the soil communities of Mount Gede: Drawida nepalensis, Notoscolex javanica, Pheretima pura-group, Polypheretima moelleri, and Polypheretima sempolensis. Also, 18 species were found that are reported to be non-Oriental in origin. Anthropogenic disturbance of forests on Mount Gede, due to conversion into plantations, alters the earthworm environment by increasing soil water content, temperature and total phosphorous content, while decreasing organic carbon. N. javanica was the only native species to survive this deforestation, while the exotic Ocnerodrilus occidentalis and Pontoscolex corethrurus thrived, becoming the eudominant species. From the forest area to the mixed and homogenous plantations, the predicted decreasing diversity is evidenced by the lowering trend of Shannon’s diversity index. In conclusion, the land-use change into mixed plantations and annual croplands has reduced earthworm diversity in this region of Mount Gede, Indonesia.
Applying research-based multimedia design principles in designing and teaching beginning CFL learners thebaconstruction online
Authors: Zhang Shenglan
Published: December 2017

Teaching grammar online is an increasingly necessary practice, but the process is resource-heavy, requiring online tools such as grammar videos. Studies show that current online grammar modules have mixed effectiveness, and none of the studies have examined the effects of the design of these modules. This study investigated whether an online module, designed according to basic multi-media design principles, is effective in helping learners understand the use of thebaconstruction. The study also asked how the students respond to the use of the online module. The findings show that the online module improved learners’ understanding and use of thebaconstruction. It also found that the students enjoyed using the online module and would like to have similar opportunities to learn grammar via multimedia online modules.
Inherent Complexity: A Problem for Statistical Model Evaluation
Authors: Romeijn Jan-Willem
Published: December 2017

This article investigates a problem for statistical model evaluation, in particular for curve fitting: by employing a different family of curves we can fit any scatter plot almost perfectly at apparently minor cost in terms of model complexity. The problem is resolved by an appeal to prior probabilities. This leads to some general lessons about how to approach model evaluation.
NovelSeimatosporiumSpecies from Grapevine in Northern California and Their Interactions with Fungal Pathogens Involved in the Trunk-Disease Complex
Authors: Lawrence Daniel P. , Travadon Renaud , Baumgartner Kendra
Published: December 2017

Seimatosporium spp. and closely related “pestalotioid fungi” have been isolated from vineyards worldwide, but their ecological status in grapevine wood is unclear. To determine their involvement in the grapevine trunk-disease complex, we tested the pathogenicity of Californian isolates obtained from vines with general symptoms of Botryosphaeria, Eutypa, and Phomopsis diebacks. Multilocus phylogenetic analyses revealed three species: Seimatosporium vitis and two newly described and typified species, S. luteosporum sp. nov. and S. vitifusiforme sp. nov. Inoculations to woody stems of potted grapevines of both isolates of S. vitis and one isolate of S. vitifusiforme, but not S. luteosporum, were associated with significantly larger lesions than those of noninoculated controls. Coinoculations with trunk pathogens (Cryptovalsa ampelina, Diaporthe ambigua, Diatrypella verruciformis, Diplodia seriata, and Eutypa lata), coisolated from the same wood cankers in the field, brought about increased lesion lengths for S. vitifusiforme paired with D. seriata, and S. luteosporum paired with Diaporthe ambigua. In contrast, there were no differences in lesion lengths of S. vitis and Diatrypella verruciformis or S. vitis and E. lata, inoculated alone or together. Our findings suggest that Seimatosporium spp. are involved in the grapevine trunk-disease complex, and their virulence may depend on or affect that of trunk pathogens.
Reverse Sural Adipofascial Flaps with Acellular Dermal Matrix and Negative-Pressure Wound Therapy
Authors: Pontell Matthew E. , Saad Noah , Winters Brian S. , Daniel Joseph N. , Saad Adam
Published: December 2017

The reverse sural adipofascial flap (RSAF) is used to reconstruct challenging wounds of the foot and ankle. It offers several advantages over the traditional reverse sural flap, including less venous congestion. To complete the reconstruction, split-thickness skin grafting (STSG) may be done immediately or in a delayed fashion; however, both scenarios result in suboptimal take rates and prolonged healing. An acellular dermal matrix (ADM; Integra; Ethicon Inc, Somerville, New Jersey) and negative-pressure wound therapy (NPWT) combined with RSAF followed by delayed STSG may decrease wound healing time.

In this study, 8 patients underwent reconstruction of lower-extremity wounds with RSAF. Four patients underwent RSAF with immediate STSG, and 4 underwent RSAF with placement of the ADM and a vacuum-assisted closure device, with STSG at a later date.

The 4 patients who underwent RSAF and immediate STSG had an average time to heal of 141.2 days, and 2 patients required reoperation. The 4 patients who underwent RSAF with an ADM and NPWT had an average time to heal of 104.5 days, and 1 patient required reoperation. Average time until STSG was 41.5 days. The latter group demonstrated a reduction in time to heal by an average of 36.7 days, or 25%. All 8 patients achieved successful wound closure.

The RSAF is a durable option for complex lower-extremity reconstruction. Interim placement of ADM and NPWT may increase STSG take rates. Using this technique in conjunction with RSAF may decrease the overall healing time compared with RSAF with immediate STSG.
Urinary incontinence
Authors: Pair Lisa S. , Somerall William E.
Published: December 2017

Primary care NPs play a significant role in recognizing and implementing strategies for urinary incontinence (UI) management. The American College of Physicians recommends pelvic floor muscle and behavioral training as initial treatment for UI. This article provides practical tips that can help improve urinary continence.
Improving HPV vaccination rates among young males in rural areas of the United States
Authors: Vogel Nicki Parton , Appel Susan J. , Winker Guyton
Published: December 2017

Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination occurs more frequently among females ages 11 to 18 than their male counterparts. The purpose of this quality improvement project is to identify reasons why parents/guardians either choose or decline HPV immunization and increase rates of vaccination among males ages 11 to 18 in rural areas of the United States.
Persistence of the Cone on the Posterior Corneal Surface Affecting Corneal Aberration Changes After Intracorneal Ring Segment Implantation in Patients With Keratoconus
Authors: Muftuoglu Orkun , Aydin Rukiye , Kilic Muftuoglu Ilkay
Published: December 2017

Purpose:

To analyze the changes in anterior and posterior corneal surfaces and aberrations in patients who underwent intracorneal ring segment (ICRS) implantation for the treatment of keratoconus.

Methods:

Eighty-nine eyes of 59 patients with keratoconus who underwent ICRS implantation were analyzed. All eyes were evaluated using a tomography system combining a Placido disc and Scheimpflug photography before and at least 6 months after surgery. Total, anterior, and posterior corneal aberrations, anterior and posterior sagittal and tangential anterior and posterior curve analysis, keratometry (K), minimum corneal thickness, and anterior chamber depth were analyzed before and after surgery.

Results:

Flattening with a decrease in the cone shape on the anterior corneal surface and steepening in the paracentral area with persistence of cone appearance on the posterior corneal surface were noted in all cases after ICRS implantation. The total corneal higher-order aberrations (HOAs) significantly decreased from 1.09 ± 0.43 to 0.71 ± 0.32 μm, and anterior corneal HOAs significantly decreased from 0.98 ± 0.46 to 0.81 ± 0.37 μm, whereas the posterior corneal HOAs increased from 0.53 ± 0.29 to 0.66 ± 0.25 μm after ICRS implantation (P < 0.05). There was a significant decrease in anterior maximum keratometry, but there was a significant increase in posterior maximum keratometry after ICRS implantation (P < 0.05).

Conclusions:

The cone shape persists on the posterior corneal surface despite its correction on the anterior corneal surface, leading to a decrease in anterior corneal aberrations and an increase in posterior corneal aberrations after ICRS implantation in eyes with keratoconus.
An Update on Current Management Strategies for Achalasia and Future Perspectives
Authors: Smith Ioana , Kahaleh Michel
Published: December 2017

The last decade has seen growing insight into the pathophysiology of achalasia, and current treatments decreasing the resting pressure in the lower esophageal sphincter by endoscopic (botulinum toxin injection, pneumatic dilation, peroral endoscopic myotomy) or surgical means (Heller myotomy). Manometry is considered the gold standard to confirm the diagnosis of achalasia. Pneumatic dilation and laparoscopic Heller myotomy have similar effectiveness and are both more successful in patients with type II achalasia. Laparoscopic myotomy when combined with partial fundoplication is an effective surgical technique and has been considered the operative procedure of choice until recently. Peroral endoscopic myotomy is an emerging therapy with promising results since it offers a minimally invasive and efficacious option especially in type III achalasia. However, it remains to be determined if peroral endoscopic myotomy offers long-term efficacy.
Complete Histologic Regression of Endometrioid Adenocarcinoma on Endometrial Biopsy After Progestin Treatment Does Not Guarantee the Regression of an Invasive Carcinoma Within the Myometrium
Authors: Park Ji Y. , Park Jeong-Yeol , Nam Joo-Hyun , Kim Kyu-Rae
Published: December 2017

Currently, the indications for progestin therapy are limited to endometrioid adenocarcinoma that are International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) grade 1, FIGO stage IA, and confined to the endometrium. However, there have been attempts to broaden the indications of progestin therapy to patients with higher FIGO grades and/or with superficial myometrial invasion. We experienced a case with myoinvasive endometrioid adenocarcinoma treated with oral progestin, whose follow-up endometrial curettage specimen showed an apparent complete histologic regression; however, the final hysterectomy specimen disclosed myoinvasive endometrioid adenocarcinoma within the superficial myometrium, with absence of residual tumor in the endometrium. We describe this case to demonstrate that complete histologic regression of the endometrial lesion in a follow-up curettage specimen after progestin treatment does not guarantee histologic regression of the carcinoma within the myometrium. Our case indicates that current indications for progestin treatment should not be broadened to patients with superficial myometrial invasion.
Recent epidemiology of sexually transmissible enteric infections in men who have sex with men
Authors: Mitchell Holly , Hughes Gwenda
Published: December 2017

Purpose of review

Sexual transmission of enteric pathogens in men who have sex with men (MSM) has been described since the 1970s. Recently, an increasing number of enteric infection outbreaks have been reported in MSM. This article summarizes recent outbreaks and discusses the key issues for prevention and control.

Recent findings

Sexually transmissible enteric infections (STEIs) can spread rapidly and internationally within highly connected MSM populations and are often associated with antimicrobial resistance (AMR). The infections often cluster in high-risk groups of HIV-positive MSM who are more likely to engage in diverse sexual practices and chemsex, and to have multiple other sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

The roles of asymptomatic and/or persistent infection and other contextual factors in STEI transmission are not well described. STEI-associated AMR is increasing and has potential to spread rapidly in MSM, warranting further public health attention. A better understanding of the factors associated with sexual transmission will enable the development of more effective control measures. A holistic approach that promotes health and wellbeing as well as infection prevention and management is needed.
In situelectrochemical synchrotron radiation for Li-ion batteries
Authors: Alemu Tibebu , Wang Fu-Ming
Published: December 2017

Observing the electronic structure, compositional change and morphological evolution of the surface and interface of a battery during operation provides essential information for developing new electrode materials for Li-ion batteries (LIBs); this is because such observations demonstrate the fundamental reactions occurring inside the electrode materials. Moreover, obtaining detailed data on chemical phase changes and distributions by analyzing an operating LIB is the most effective method for exploring the intercalation/de-intercalation process, kinetics and the relationship between phase change or phase distribution and battery performance, as well as for further optimizing the material synthesis routes for advanced battery materials. However, most conventionalin situelectrochemical techniques (other than by using synchrotron radiation) cannot clearly or precisely demonstrate structural change, electron valence change and chemical mapping information.In situelectrochemical-synchrotron radiation techniques such as X-ray absorption spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction spectroscopy and transmission X-ray microscopy can deliver accurate information regarding LIBs. This paper reviews studies regarding various applications ofin situelectrochemical-synchrotron radiation such as crystallographic transformation, oxidation-state changes, characterization of the solid electrolyte interphase and Li-dendrite growth mechanism during the intercalation/de-intercalation process. The paper also presents the findings of previous review articles and the future direction of these methods.
Digital fast pulse shape and height analysis on cadmium–zinc–telluride arrays for high-flux energy-resolved X-ray imaging
Authors: Abbene Leonardo , Principato Fabio , Gerardi Gaetano , Bettelli Manuele , Seller Paul , Veale Matthew C. , Zambelli Nicola , Benassi Giacomo , Zappettini Andrea
Published: December 2017

Cadmium–zinc–telluride (CZT) arrays with photon-counting and energy-resolving capabilities are widely proposed for next-generation X-ray imaging systems. This work presents the performance of a 2 mm-thick CZT pixel detector, with pixel pitches of 500 and 250 µm, dc coupled to a fast and low-noise ASIC (PIXIE ASIC), characterized only by the preamplifier stage. A custom 16-channel digital readout electronics was used, able to digitize and process continuously the signals from each output ASIC channel. The digital system performs on-line fast pulse shape and height analysis, with a low dead-time and reasonable energy resolution at both low and high fluxes. The spectroscopic response of the system to photon energies below (109Cd source) and above (241Am source) the K-shell absorption energy of the CZT material was investigated, with particular attention to the mitigation of charge sharing and pile-up. The detector allows high bias voltage operation (>5000 V cm−1) and good energy resolution at moderate cooling (3.5% and 5% FWHM at 59.5 keV for the 500 and 250 µm arrays, respectively) by using fast pulse shaping with a low dead-time (300 ns). Charge-sharing investigations were performed using a fine time coincidence analysis (TCA), with very short coincidence time windows up to 10 ns. For the 500 µm pitch array (250 µm pitch array), sharing percentages of 36% (52%) and 60% (82%) at 22.1 and 59.5 keV, respectively, were measured. The potential of the pulse shape analysis technique for charge-sharing detection for corner/border pixels and at high rate conditions (250 kcps pixel−1), where the TCA fails, is also shown. Measurements demonstrated that significant amounts of charge are lost for interactions occurring in the volume of the inter-pixel gap. This charge loss must be accounted for in the correction of shared events. These activities are within the framework of an international collaboration on the development of energy-resolved photon-counting systems for high-flux energy-resolved X-ray imaging (1–140 keV).
The novel thermostable cellulose-degrading enzyme DtCel5H from Dictyoglomus thermophilum: crystallization and X-ray crystallographic analysis
Authors: Squeglia Flavia , Berisio Rita , Ruggiero Alessia
Published: December 2017

Cellulose-based products constitute the great majority of municipal waste, and applications of cellulases in the conversion of waste biomass to biofuels will be a key technology in future biorefineries. Currently, multi-enzymatic pre-treatment of biomass is a crucial step in making carbohydrates more accessible for subsequent fermentation. Using bioinformatics analysis, endo-β-(1,4)-glucanase from Dictyoglomus thermophilum (DtCel5H) was identified as a new member of glycosyl hydrolase family 5. The gene encoding DtCel5H was cloned and the recombinant protein was overexpressed for crystallization and biophysical studies. Here, it is shown that this enzyme is active on cellulose substrates and is highly thermostable. Crystals suitable for crystallographic investigations were also obtained in different crystallization conditions. In particular, ordered crystals of DtCel5H were obtained using either ammonium sulfate or polyethylene glycol (PEG) as a precipitant agent. The crystals obtained in the presence of ammonium sulfate belonged to space group P32, with unit-cell parameters a = 73.1, b = 73.1, 73.1, c = 127.8 Å, and diffracted to 1.5 Å resolution, whereas the second crystal form belonged to the orthorhombic space group P212121, with unit-cell parameters a = 49.3, b = 67.9, c = 103.7 Å, and diffracted to 1.6 Å resolution. The crystal structure was solved in both space groups using molecular-replacement methods. Structure–activity and structure–stability studies of DtCel5H will provide insights for the design of high-performance enzymes.
Fastener identification and assembly verification via machine vision
Authors: Rusli Leonard , Luscher Anthony
Published: December 2017

Purpose

The study aims to evaluate the capability of a machine vision camera and software to recognize fasteners for the purpose of assembly verification. This will enable the current assembly verification system to associate torque verfication with a specific fastener.

Design/methodology/approach

A small camera is installed at the head of a tool near the socket. The camera is used to capture images surrounding the fastener, and feeding them into machine vision recognition software. By recognizing unique features around the fastener, the fastener can be uniquely identified and therefore verified to be assembled. Additional filtering and multiple frame recognition will improve the reliability of the recognition.

Findings

The machine vision technology is found to be adequately reliable in identifying fasteners after tuning key threshold parameters and requiring multiple positively recognized frames. The time to verify can be kept around a fraction of a second to prevent impacting assembly speed.

Research limitations/implications

This experiment was run under simulated assembly line lighting conditions. It also does not explore industrial remote head industrial camera hardware.

Practical implications

By using a remote-mounted camera in combination with electric tools, a reliable assembly verification system can be used to eliminate torque check processes of critical fasteners, thereby reducing the cost of assembly.

Originality/value

Currently, assembly verification is done only using the torque values. In automated assembly line, each process might involve fastening multiple fasteners. Using this system, a new level of assembly verification is achieved by recording the assembled fastener and its associated torque.
The effect of child labour on children’s health in Brazil
Authors: Nicolella Alexandre , Kassouf Ana Lucia
Published: December 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine if child labour can have long-term consequences on children’s health status.

Design/methodology/approach

To capture this relationship, this paper uses the Brazilian National Household Survey (PNAD) conducted in 1998, 2003 and 2008, structured as a pseudo panel and estimated using a fractional response model.

Findings

The results show that child labour is negatively associated with child’s health status, and the longer the hours worked, the worse is the child’s health status. The authors also observe that hazardous labour had a three times higher negative effect on the child’s health and those who worked in service sectors are more prone to having a worse health status.

Originality/value

The study shows that different children’s occupations may have very different impacts on children’s health and indicates that despite the fact that Brazil has a strict law prohibiting child labour, the share of children working is still high and this work has a negative impact on child’s health.
The effects of loyalty programs in services – a double-edged sword?
Authors: Ma Baolong , Li Xiaofei , Zhang Lin
Published: December 2017

Purpose

This paper aims to demonstrate both the positive and negative effects of loyalty programs. The study proposes a model to demonstrate why and how loyalty program strategies can result in good customer relationships and customer entitlement behaviors. Various configurations of three different loyalty program strategies are analyzed – tangible rewards, preferential treatment and perceived status.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors’ hypotheses were tested by analyzing the survey data of 152 frequent flyer program members in China through partial least squares-structural equation modeling. Fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) was used to test different configurations of the three loyalty program strategies.

Findings

A net effects analysis demonstrates that loyalty programs are a double-edged sword. While loyalty programs can improve customer relationships, strategies based on perceived status have a positive relationship to customer entitlement, which may lead customers to expect extraordinary efforts from companies, such as greater discounts and extra privileges. Using fsQCA, the authors determined four sufficient configurations of high level of relationship quality and high level of customer entitlement, which also support their findings.

Originality/value

First, this study expands the research on loyalty programs by providing an examination of their positive and negative consequences. Second, by proposing the configuration paths that lead to high level of relationship quality and high level of customer entitlement using fsQCA, this research enriches research on the net effects of loyalty programs, providing researchers and practitioners with a more comprehensive understanding of loyalty programs. Third, this research extends the concept of customer entitlement to the context of buyer–seller relationships by introducing perceived status as an important antecedent of customer entitlement and by identifying four sufficient configurations.
Relationship between serum anti‐varicella zoster virus antibody titer and time from onset of herpes zoster
Authors: Ihara Honoka , Miyachi Motoko , Imafuku Shinichi
Published: December 2017

Herpes zoster is an internal reactivation of varicella zoster virus, and its onset depends on immunity against this virus. We have previously reported that antiviral antibody titers are inversely correlated with patient numbers. In this study, we hypothesized that patients with higher titers may be late visitors to the clinic, whose antibodies were already boosted at presentation because of the time lapse between onset of zoster and measurement of antibodies. We analyzed antibody titers of patients with acute herpes zoster who visited Fukuoka University Hospital from January 2009 to May 2016 (n = 141, 62 males and 79 females). Varicella zoster virus‐specific immunoglobulin G, M and complement fixation tests were positive in 93.9%, 12.0% and 64.2% of the patients, respectively. Immunoglobulin G and complement fixation titers were strongly correlated (Spearman's r = 0.8634, P < 0.0001). Patients with high immunoglobulin G and complement fixation titers were immunoglobulin M‐negative. Unexpectedly, immunoglobulin G and complement fixation titers showed large inter‐subject variation, and were only weakly correlated with onset–measurement time lapse. Patients with consecutive tests tended to show increasing immunoglobulin G and complement fixation titers. Our data suggest that herpes zoster preferentially occurs in patients with low immunoglobulin G and complement fixation titers, and subsequently causes antibody elevation. However, the timing of elevation varies and can be as late as 10 days after zoster. The large variation in antibody titer over the time from onset to testing suggests that some mechanism exists that resists the local breakthrough of virus in the skin, and so delays the onset of blisters.
Engineering thermal stability and solvent tolerance of the soluble quinoprotein PedE from Pseudomonas putida KT2440 with a heterologous whole‐cell screening approach
Authors: Wehrmann Matthias , Klebensberger Janosch
Published: December 2017

Due to their ability for direct electron transfer to electrodes, the utilization of rare earth metals as cofactor, and their periplasmic localization, pyrroloquinoline quinone‐dependent alcohol dehydrogenases (PQQ‐ADHs) represent an interesting class of biocatalysts for various biotechnological applications. For most biocatalysts protein stability is crucial, either to increase the performance of the protein under a given process condition or to maximize robustness of the protein towards mutational manipulations, which are often needed to enhance or introduce a functionality of interest. In this study, we describe a whole‐cell screening assay, suitable for probing PQQ‐ADH activities in Escherichia coli BL21(DE3) cells, and use this assay to screen smart mutant libraries for increased thermal stability of the PQQ‐ADH PedE (PP_2674) from Pseudomonas putida KT2440. Upon three consecutive rounds of screening, we identified three different amino acid positions, which significantly improve enzyme stability. The subsequent combination of the beneficial mutations finally results in the triple mutant R91D/E408P/N410K, which not only exhibits a 7°C increase in thermal stability but also a twofold increase in residual activity upon incubation with up to 50% dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), while showing no significant difference in enzymatic efficiency (kcat/KM).
EBITDA and Managers' Investment and Leverage Choices
Authors: Rozenbaum Oded
Published: December 2017

EBITDA is a commonly used performance measure for (i) valuation, (ii) debt contracting, and (iii) executive compensation. The widespread use of EBITDA by stakeholders may induce managers to focus their attention on EBITDA. Since EBITDA excludes various expenses, managers who fixate on EBITDA may underweight the excluded expenses when determining their firms' investments in capital and leverage levels. I find that managers who fixate on EBITDA overinvest in capital and overlever their firm relative to their industry peers. These results are robust to alternative proxies for managers' focus on EBITDA and alternative specifications. I also find that firms whose managers focus on EBITDA have weaker operating performance, which is attributed to higher depreciation expense. My primary proxy for managers' focus on EBITDA is whether they choose to disclose EBITDA in annual earnings announcements. I find that the use of EBITDA in setting executive compensation, the prevalence of EBITDA estimates by analysts, and the use of EBITDA‐based covenants in firms' debt contracts are all positively associated with the propensity to disclose EBITDA in earnings announcements. I find weaker evidence of opportunistic motives explaining EBITDA disclosure. These results are consistent with managers disclosing EBITDA to portray to investors that it is a metric they seek to maximize. Overall, this study suggests that while EBITDA is a widely used metric, there is a systematic cost to using this measure—it provides managers with incentives to overinvest in capital and to acquire excessive debt.
Pharmacogenetic Effects of Naltrexone in Individuals of East Asian Descent: Human Laboratory Findings from a Randomized Trial
Authors: Ray Lara A. , Green ReJoyce , Roche Daniel J.O. , Bujarski Spencer , Hartwell Emily E. , Lim Aaron C. , Rohrbaugh Taylor , Ghahremani Dara , Hutchison Kent , Miotto Karen
Published: December 2017

Background

Genetic variation in the endogenous opioid system has been identified as 1 potential source of individual variability in naltrexone treatment outcomes. The majority of naltrexone pharmacogenetic studies have focused on a particular single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) of the mu‐opioid receptor gene (OPRM1; rs1799971; commonly known as the Asn40Asp SNP) in Caucasian samples with decidedly mixed results. The goal of this study was to test the pharmacogenetic effects of naltrexone on subjective response to alcohol and self‐administration of alcohol in individuals of East Asian descent. We hypothesized that naltrexone, compared with placebo, would potentiate the aversive and sedative effects of alcohol and reduce alcohol self‐administration to a greater extent in Asp40 carriers.

Methods

Participants (N = 77; Asn40Asn, n = 29; Asn40Asp, n = 34, and Asp40Asp, n = 14) completed 2 double‐blinded and counterbalanced experimental sessions: one after taking naltrexone (50 mg/d) for 5 days and one after taking matched placebo for 5 days. In each experimental session, participants received a priming dose of intravenous alcohol up to the breath alcohol concentration target of 0.06 g/dl which was immediately followed by an alcohol self‐administration period (1 hour).

Results

There were no pharmacogenetic effects observed for alcohol‐induced stimulation, sedation, craving for alcohol, or alcohol self‐administration in the laboratory. During the self‐administration period, Asp40 carriers consumed fewer drinks and had a longer latency to first drink as compared to Asn40 homozygotes.

Conclusions

These findings in East Asians add to the mixed literature on naltrexone pharmacogenetics from predominantly Caucasian samples and highlight the complexity of these effects and their overall limited replicability. It is plausible that a consistent pharmacogenetic effect in tightly controlled preclinical and experimental medicine models “fades” in more complex and heterogeneous settings and samples.
Selecting a suitable surgical treatment for hepatic angiomyolipoma: a retrospective analysis of 92 cases
Authors: Yang Xianwei , Lei Chuanfen , Qiu Yiwen , Shen Shu , Lu Changli , Yan Lunan , Wang Wentao
Published: December 2017

Background

Hepatic angiomyolipoma (HAML) is a rare and difficult‐to‐diagnose liver tumour. The aim of this study was to summarize experiences in the management of HAML and to recommend a practical treatment strategy.

Methods

We retrospectively studied 92 patients who were diagnosed with HAML and analysed the clinical presentation, histopathological features and treatment of the tumours encountered at our institute from May 2009 to June 2016.

Results

The patients included 67 females and 25 males who underwent at least one radiographic examination. Sixty‐eight patients underwent radical hepatectomy, two patients underwent liver biopsy, and 22 patients were treated with radiofrequency ablation after liver biopsy. The tumour cells correspondingly expressed both melanoma cell markers (HMB45, MART‐1) and smooth muscle cell markers. Two patients were found to have tumour recurrence (2/92, 2.2%) after radical hepatectomy, and none of the patients died.

Conclusion

Diagnosis of HAML depends on pathological findings. The treatment strategy for HAML should be selected according to the tumour size, liver biopsy, location and clinical symptoms of HAML. Patients should be followed closely after surgery because of the malignant potential of HAML.
Axial length growth and the risk of developing myopia in European children
Authors: Tideman Jan Willem Lodewijk , Polling Jan Roelof , Vingerling Johannes R. , Jaddoe Vincent W. V. , Williams Cathy , Guggenheim Jeremy A. , Klaver Caroline C. W.
Published: December 2017

Purpose

To generate percentile curves of axial length (AL) for European children, which can be used to estimate the risk of myopia in adulthood.

Methods

A total of 12 386 participants from the population‐based studies Generation R (Dutch children measured at both 6 and 9 years of age; N = 6934), the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children (ALSPAC) (British children 15 years of age; N = 2495) and the Rotterdam Study III (RS‐III) (Dutch adults 57 years of age; N = 2957) contributed to this study. Axial length (AL) and corneal curvature data were available for all participants; objective cycloplegic refractive error was available only for the Dutch participants. We calculated a percentile score for each Dutch child at 6 and 9 years of age.

Results

Mean (SD) AL was 22.36 (0.75) mm at 6 years, 23.10 (0.84) mm at 9 years, 23.41 (0.86) mm at 15 years and 23.67 (1.26) at adulthood. Axial length (AL) differences after the age of 15 occurred only in the upper 50%, with the highest difference within the 95th percentile and above. A total of 354 children showed accelerated axial growth and increased by more than 10 percentiles from age 6 to 9 years; 162 of these children (45.8%) were myopic at 9 years of age, compared to 4.8% (85/1781) for the children whose AL did not increase by more than 10 percentiles.

Conclusion

This study provides normative values for AL that can be used to monitor eye growth in European children. These results can help clinicians detect excessive eye growth at an early age, thereby facilitating decision‐making with respect to interventions for preventing and/or controlling myopia.
The study of imidazoles Gemini surfactants as retarders for the dyeing of cationic dyes on polyacrylonitrile fabrics
Authors: Cao Jiliang , Meng Chunli , Zhao Hong
Published: December 2017

Alkyl imidazole cationic Gemini surfactants (AICGS) with various alkyl chain lengths were used as retarders for dyeing methylene blue (MB) on polyacrylonitrile (PAN) fabrics, with benzyldimethyldodecylammonium chloride (1227) surfactant as a comparison. The exhaustion (E%) of MB on PAN fabrics was investigated at varying surfactant concentrations and dyeing temperatures. Furthermore, kinetic studies on various retarders and 10‐4‐10 AICGS concentrations were carried out. It was found that the retarding dyeing effect of AICGS is stronger when compared with the 1227 surfactant. Moreover, as surfactant concentration increased or the dyeing temperature decreased, E% was reduced drastically. For kinetic studies, the dyeing rate constant increased with an increase in dyeing temperature and a decrease in 10‐4‐10 AICGS concentration, while half‐dyeing time was reversibly decreased.
Enhanced cognition and dysregulated hippocampal synaptic physiology in mice with a heterozygous deletion of PSD‐95
Authors: Horner Alexa E. , McLaughlin Catherine L. , Afinowi Nurudeen O. , Bussey Timothy J. , Saksida Lisa M. , Komiyama Noboru H. , Grant Seth G. N. , Kopanitsa Maksym V.
Published: December 2017

PSD‐95 is one of the most abundant proteins of the postsynaptic density of excitatory synapses. It functions as the backbone of protein supercomplexes that mediate signalling between membrane glutamate receptors and intracellular pathways. Homozygous deletion of the Dlg4 gene encoding PSD‐95 was previously found to cause a profound impairment in operant and Pavlovian conditioning in Dlg4−/− mice studied in touch screen chambers that precluded evaluation of PSD‐95's role in shaping more subtle forms of learning and memory. In this study, using a battery of touch screen tests, we investigated cognitive behaviour of mice with a heterozygous Dlg4 mutation. We found that in contrast to learning deficits of Dlg4−/− mice, Dlg4+/− animals demonstrated enhanced performance in the Visual Discrimination, Visual Discrimination Reversal and Paired‐Associates Learning touch screen tasks. The divergent directions of learning phenotypes observed in Dlg4−/− and Dlg4+/− mice also contrasted with qualitatively similar changes in the amplitude and plasticity of field excitatory postsynaptic potentials recorded in the CA1 area of hippocampal slices from both mutants. Our results have important repercussions for the studies of genetic models of human diseases, because they demonstrate that reliance on phenotypes observed solely in homozygous mice may obscure qualitatively different changes in heterozygous animals and potentially weaken the validity of translational comparisons with symptoms seen in heterozygous human carriers.
A Pilot of a Brief Positive Parenting Program on Children Newly Diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Zand Debra H. , Bultas Margaret W. , McMillin Stephen Edward , Halloran Donna , White Taryn , McNamara Donnamarie , Pierce Katherine J.
Published: December 2017

Disruptive behaviors can be of comparable or greater concern to parents than the core symptoms of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Provision of effective interventions to address these behaviors within the first year of initial diagnosis holds great potential for improving the child's, parents', and family's functioning. We piloted a four‐session, manualized, positive parenting program on 21 parents of newly diagnosed children ages 2 through 12 years using a mixed methods design. Seventy‐five percent of parents completed four sessions, with 100% reporting high levels of service satisfaction. Preliminary results indicated clinically and statistically significant reductions in child maladaptive behaviors, as well as improvements in parental and family functioning. Practitioners and parents identified several potential implementation adaptations, including additional sessions to focus on ASD education and real‐time parent–child interactions. Taken as a whole, these data suggest that a brief positive parenting intervention may be a feasible way to improve child, parent, and family functioning during the first year of ASD diagnosis. Findings point to the need for additional research to determine treatment efficacy and to assist with the identification of moderators and mediators of effects.
Etiology of Salinity and Water Origin, the Main Dilemma of Badab Sourt, a Unique Travertine Spring
Authors: Bagheri Rahim , Jafari Hadi , Bagheri Fatemeh
Published: December 2017

Badab Sourt travertine‐depositing springs in the north of Iran, naturally create a unique surreal landscape containing a range of stepped travertine terraces, similarly found only in a few other places on earth. This site comprises of three travertine saline springs with different values of salinity and discharge (SP1, SP2, and SP3) and one non‐travertine fresh karstic spring (SP4) within a distance of about 300 m. The etiology behind this salinity and the water origin are the main research's dilemma that were investigated using geological, hydrochemical, and stable isotopic techniques. Based on the topography and isotopic results, the carbonate formations in northern (Khoshyeilagh and Mobarak) and southern (Cretaceous limestone) parts of the springs potentially provide the initial hydraulic gradient for deep circulation of the water and CO2. However, geological studies indicate that the hydraulic connectivity of the Cretaceous formation to the travertine springs is interrupted by impermeable geological formations. Based on the proposed conceptual hydrogeological model and mass balance calculations, the SP4 spring is locally recharged from the nearby karstic area of Khoshyeilagh formation through shallow, short and steep groundwater flow circulation that is completely different from the travertine springs. The travertine spring (SP1) is recharged from more distant areas having higher altitudes on Mobarak and Khoshyeilagh limestone and circulate more deeply before emerging on the surface. The SP2 and SP3 springs can derive from the mixing of the saline water (SP1) and fresh water (SP4). The dissolution of interlayers of halite in Shemshak formation is concluded as the main source of salinity. This is the first research article in detail to survey hydrogeology of the travertine springs in Iran.
A user's guide to non‐invasive follicular thyroid neoplasm with papillary‐like nuclear features (NIFTP)
Authors: Hung Yin P , Barletta Justine A
Published: December 2017

The term non‐invasive follicular thyroid neoplasm with papillary‐like nuclear features (NIFTP) was recently introduced to replace a subset of follicular variant of papillary thyroid carcinoma (FVPTC). The goal of this change was to promote more conservative management of these tumours and spare patients the psychological burden of a cancer diagnosis. The histological diagnosis of NIFTP is stringent: the tumour needs to demonstrate encapsulation or circumscription, a purely follicular architecture and the presence of nuclear features of papillary thyroid carcinoma, while lacking capsular and vascular invasion, a significant component of solid growth and high‐grade features (increased mitotic activity and necrosis). In order to ensure that these inclusion and exclusion criteria are met, the tumour must be sampled extensively, with the entire capsule/periphery submitted in all cases. When sampled by fine‐needle aspiration, NIFTP is usually classified within the indeterminate categories of the Bethesda System for Reporting Thyroid Cytopathology. NIFTP is characterized genetically by frequent RAS mutations, although rarely other alterations, such as the BRAF K601E mutation and gene rearrangements in PPARG or THADA, may occur. In this review, we will examine the history of FVPTC and the findings and factors that culminated in the introduction of the NIFTP terminology. A discussion will follow with the histological, cytological and molecular characteristics of NIFTP. We will conclude by considering the potential impact of the introduction of the NIFTP terminology.
Are there electoral cycles of emigration? An empirical investigation based on European data
Authors: Mourão Paulo Reis , Ercolano Salvatore , Gaeta Giuseppe Lucio
Published: December 2017

Economic literature suggests that economic factors and the availability of amenities act as determinants of migration choices together with socio‐demographic factors. Migration has also been found to be the consequence of political instability. This article argues that specific political events, i.e., democratic elections, may be linked to migration flows. By using European data over the 1999‐2012 time period, our system GMM estimations reveal that there is an emigration political cycle across European democracies and across the young democracies of Central and Eastern European countries. We observe that regular elections tend to diminish emigration ratios, whereas endogenous elections have the opposite effect. These results suggest special challenges for governments and oppositions, which are also discussed.
In which preterm labor‐patients is intravenous maintenance tocolysis effective?
Authors: Yoneda Satoshi , Yoneda Noriko , Fukuta Kaori , Shima Tomoko , Nakashima Akitoshi , Shiozaki Arihiro , Yoshino Osamu , Kigawa Mika , Yoshida Taketoshi , Saito Shigeru
Published: December 2017

Aim

We evaluated whether maintenance tocolysis (intravenous ritodrine hydrochloride and/or magnesium sulfate) was effective in cases of spontaneous preterm labor with intact membranes.

Methods

One hundred and thirty preterm labor patients who reached 36 weeks of gestation by maintenance tocolysis were selected. Immediate delivery (ID) after ceasing maintenance tocolysis was defined as an ‘effective case’. The correlated factors between ID and no immediate delivery (NID) were statistically analyzed.

Results

Thirty‐six patients delivered < two days after ceasing maintenance tocolysis (27.7%) and were defined as effective cases. Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that amniotic fluid interleukin‐8 at admission (≥ 2.3 ng/mL; odds ratio [OR] 5.6, 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.1–17.6; P < 0.001), pre‐pregnancy body mass index (≤ 21.4; OR 5.3, 95% CI 2.0–16.2; P < 0.001) and cerclage (OR 3.6, 95% CI 1.1–11.8; P = 0.028) were independent factors correlated with ID (< 2 days).

Conclusion

Maintenance tocolysis may be effective in limited cases with mild intra‐amniotic inflammation, in lean women and in cerclage cases. Maintenance tocolysis should be ceased in cases without these clinical factors when clinical symptoms disappear.
The Development of Nonanatomic Denture Occlusion – Part I
Authors: Engelmeier Robert L.
Published: December 2017

Part I of this two‐part article concentrates on the early 20th century origin of the nonanatomic concept of complete denture occlusion. It focuses on Dr. Victor Sears, who in 1922 made a courageous departure from convention when he introduced the design for his “Chewing Members.” Development of these teeth marked the birth of the School of Nonanatomic Denture Occlusion. Dr. Sears’ 35‐year journey of research and development is traced here through his mid‐1950s association with Dr. Simon Myerson. Their Myerson‐Sears design set the standard for flat‐planed, nonanatomic denture teeth for the next half century.