bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lessons from Nigeria for improved thinking and working politically in the extractives sector
Authors: Lopez Lucia Elisa , Buckley Joanna , Marquette Heather , McCulloch Neil
Published: May 2019

Despite the wealth that comes from being the biggest oil producer in Africa, Nigeria has some of the worst development indicators in the world. From 2011 to mid‐2016, the DFID‐funded Facility for Oil Sector Transparency and Reform (FOSTER) programme's unique design aimed to reduce incentives for the capture of oil revenue by elites and international oil companies, restoring the potential of those revenues to accelerate economic and social development. This article asks what lessons FOSTER's successes and failures offer for improved “thinking and working politically” (TWP). It examines the outcomes from five “clusters” of interventions: three viewed by the FOSTER team as successes and two as failures. The article identifies factors for successful TWP‐based programming, including the need for local ownership rooted in staff with a combination of technical expertise, a deep knowledge of the local political context and excellent networking abilities. The research used a qualitative and inductive approach. Field research was undertaken with 44 semi‐structured qualitative interviews during one month of fieldwork in Abuja and Lagos. The research also included reviews of FOSTER's internal documentation and evaluation frameworks, as well as analysis of newspaper articles and grey literature on the oil sector in Nigeria. The project offers important lessons for politically informed programming about how interventions were implemented (process), what was actually done (content) and how the project responded to changes in context that created or blocked opportunities for reform (responsiveness). The article identifies factors for successful TWP‐based programming, including the need for local ownership rooted in staff with a combination of technical expertise, a deep knowledge of the local political context and excellent networking abilities. The findings have important implications for programme design. They demonstrate the value of built‐in flexibility that allows staff to choose and switch the partners they work with and the channels they work through. They also show that a key aspect of TWP‐based programming is implicit acceptance that some failure may be unavoidable, since this permits staff to balance risk against opportunities. Finally, a better understanding of FOSTER's failures reveals the challenges of a TWP‐based approach and the trade‐offs it demands.
Imaging functional stress test for stable chest pain symptoms in patients at low pretest probability of coronary artery disease: Current practice and long‐term outcome
Authors: Gaibazzi Nicola , Barbieri Andrea , Boriani Giuseppe , Benatti Giorgio , Codazzo Gabriella , Manicardi Marcella , Bursi Francesca , Siniscalchi Carmine
Published: May 2019

Background

Stress testing in patients with low pretest probability (PTP) of coronary artery disease (CAD) has become an increasing practice, potentially leading to underestimation of its true clinical value. Our aim was to describe the current use of most employed imaging functional tests and their prognostic value.

Methods and Results

We selected patients with low PTP of CAD (CAD consortium clinical score < 15%) who underwent exercise or dipyridamole stress echocardiography or single photon emission computed tomography for suspected angina. Main exclusions were age < 45, known CAD, and abnormal rest wall motion. Of the 2279 subjects undergoing stress test, 883 (39%) had low PTP, and 91 (10.3%) had a positive test for ischemia. After a median follow‐up of 5.8 years, 36 patients had events (21 died, 14 had nonfatal myocardial infarction). The percentage of events in the abnormal and normal stress test groups were similar (5 [5.5%] vs 31 [3.9%], P = ns), as the annualized event rate (0.87% vs 0.62%, P = ns). Age was the only variable associated with outcome in the regression analysis (hazard ratio 1.072, 95% CI 1.034–1.113, P < 0.001). An abnormal result was not associated with worse outcome in each of the subgroups of functional tests.

Conclusions

In our geographical area, a considerable proportion of patients undergoing imaging functional tests for stable chest pain have a low estimated PTP of CAD. Of these, 1 in 10 resulted positive for inducible ischemia. However, none of the most common imaging functional tests, single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT), and stress echocardiography offer prognostic information in these patients.
Synchronized expressions of serum osteopontin and B cell–activating factor in autoimmune thyroid disease
Authors: Cheng Chao‐Wen , Tang Kam‐Tsun , Fang Wen‐Fang , Lin Jiunn‐Diann
Published: May 2019

Background

Osteopontin (OPN) is recognized as a potent immunoregulator of autoimmune disease. In the study, we tried to explore the association of serum OPN levels with autoimmune thyroid disease, including Graves' disease (GD) and Hashimoto's thyroiditis (HT), in an ethnic Chinese population.

Materials and methods

We enrolled 131 patients with GD, 33 patients with HT and 123 healthy controls. Serum OPN, B cell–activating factor (BAFF) and interferon (IFN)‐α levels were quantified. Graves' disease patients with high thyroid function at the time of sample collection were defined as having active GD, while the other patients were defined as having inactive GD.

Results

Serum OPN levels were higher in active GD than in inactive GD and the control groups (P = 0.001 and P = 0.018, respectively). In GD, significant associations of OPN levels with thyroid‐stimulating hormone receptor antibody (TSHRAb) levels were observed in women (r = −0.344, P = 0.002, and r = 0.440, P = 0.004, respectively) but not in men. Osteopontin levels were associated with BAFF levels only in women with GD or HT (r = 0.506, P < 0.001 and r = 0.430, P = 0.025, respectively), but not in men with GD or HT.

Conclusions

Serum OPN levels were upregulated in active GD, and serum OPN levels were associated with thyroid function and TSHRAb levels in GD. Additionally, OPN levels were correlated with BAFF levels in GD and HT. The associations of OPN levels with clinical phenotypes of GD and BAFF levels showed a dimorphic pattern.
Currency devaluations and beggar‐my‐neighbour penalties: evidence from the 1930s
Authors: Albers Thilo N. H.
Published: May 2019

The currency devaluations of the 1930s facilitated a faster recovery from the Great Depression in the countries depreciating, but their unilateral manner provoked retaliatory and discriminatory commercial policies abroad. This article explores the importance of the retaliatory motive in the imposition of trade barriers by gold bloc countries during the 1930s and its effects on trade. Relying on new and existing datasets on the introduction of quotas, tariffs, and bilateral trade costs, the quantification of the discriminatory response suggests that these countries imposed significant beggar‐my‐neighbour penalties. The penalties reduced trade to a similar degree that modern regional trade agreements foster trade. Furthermore, the analysis of contemporary newspapers reveals that the devaluations of the early 1930s triggered an Anglo‐French trade conflict marked by tit‐for‐tat protectionist policies. With regards to global trade, the unilateral currency depreciations came at a high price in political and economic terms. These costs must have necessarily reduced their benefit to the world as a whole.
Occurrence of the colistin resistance mcr‐1 gene in soils from intensive vegetable production and native vegetation
Authors: Oliveira Camila C. , Lopes Eliene S. , Barbosa Daniele R. , Pimenta Ramon L. , Sobrinho Nelson M. B. A. , Coelho Shana M. O. , Souza Miliane M. S. , Coelho Irene S.
Published: May 2019

Colistin, currently regarded as the last‐resort antibiotic for the treatment of infections caused by multidrug‐resistant bacteria, is used in poultry production to treat and prevent infection, and as a growth promoter. Poultry litter is commonly used as organic fertilizer; however, there are no reports on the effect of its application regarding colistin resistance in soils. Thus, the objective of the present study was to compare the abundance of the colistin resistance gene (mcr‐1) in soils from vegetable production areas that received non‐composted poultry litter as organic fertilizer and native vegetation areas. The mcr‐1 gene was detected in all soil samples from both areas. A significant difference (p < 0.05) was observed in the relative abundance of the mcr‐1 gene between soils pertaining to the vegetable production area and the native vegetation area in six of those 10 properties. This is the first report of the presence of the colistin resistance gene in soils from Brazil. The vast majority of antibiotic resistance genes acquired by human pathogens originated in natural environments. Thus, the presence of the mcr‐1 gene in soils treated with poultry litter and from native vegetation areas reinforces the need for studies that minimize potential risks of the development of colistin resistance.

Highlights

Poultry litter usually is employed as fertilizer; however, there are no reports of its impact in colistin resistance in soils.

The mcr‐1 gene was detected in soils from both native vegetation and vegetable production.

This is the first report of the presence of colistin resistance gene in soils from Brazil.

The presence of mcr‐1 gene in soils can increase risks of the development and spread of colistin resistance.
Adhesive defence mucus secretions in the red triangle slug (Triboniophorus graeffei) can incapacitate adult frogs
Authors: Gould John , Valdez Jose W. , Upton Rose
Published: May 2019

Gastropods are known to secrete mucus for a variety of purposes, including locomotion, reproduction, adhesion to surfaces and lubrication. A less commonly known function of mucus secretion in this group involves its use as a defence against predation. Amongst the terrestrial slugs, mucus that serves this particular purpose has been studied for only a handful of species under laboratory conditions, where it is thought to be produced to make individuals unpalatable or difficult to consume. However, the mechanisms of how these defensive secretions operate and their effectiveness in deterring predation in the natural world have not been described in much detail. In this study, we provide evidence of adhesive mucus secretions in the red triangle slug (Triboniophorus graeffei) as an adaptation against predation. Field observations of a large red‐eyed green tree frog (Litoria chloris) trapped in the mucus secretions of a nearby T. graeffei revealed that this mucus serves to incapacitate predators rather than just an overall deterrence. Mechanical stimulation of T. graeffei under laboratory conditions revealed that adhesive secretions were produced from discrete sections of the dorsal surface when disturbed, leading to the production of a highly sticky and elastic mucus that was unlike the thin and slippery mucus used during locomotion. The adhesiveness of the defensive secretions was strengthened and reactivated when in contact with water. This appears to not only be the first description of defensive mucus production in this slug species but one of the first natural observations of slug secretions incapacitating a relatively large vertebrate. The biomechanical properties of this mucus and its ability to maintain and strengthen its hold under wet conditions make it potentially useful in the development of new adhesive materials.
Interaction of coronavirus nucleocapsid protein with the 5′‐ and 3′‐ends of the coronavirus genome is involved in genome circularization and negative‐strand RNA synthesis
Authors: Lo Chen‐Yu , Tsai Tsung‐Lin , Lin Chao‐Nan , Lin Ching‐Hung , Wu Hung‐Yi
Published: May 2019

Synthesis of the negative‐strand ((−)‐strand) counterpart is the first step of coronavirus (CoV) replication; however, the detailed mechanism of the early event and the factors involved remain to be determined. Here, using bovine coronavirus (BCoV)‐defective interfering (DI) RNA, we showed that (a) a poly(A) tail with a length of 15 nucleotides (nt) was sufficient to initiate efficient (−)‐strand RNA synthesis and (b) substitution of the poly(A) tail with poly(U), (C) or (G) only slightly decreased the efficiency of (−)‐strand synthesis. The findings indicate that in addition to the poly(A) tail, other factors acting in trans may also participate in (−)‐strand synthesis. The BCoV nucleocapsid (N) protein, an RNA‐binding protein, was therefore tested as a candidate. Based on dissociation constant (Kd) values, it was found that the binding affinity between N protein, but not poly(A)‐binding protein, and the 3′‐terminal 55 nt plus a poly(A), poly(U), poly(C) or poly(G) tail correlates with the efficiency of (−)‐strand synthesis. Such an association was also evidenced by the binding affinity between the N protein and 5′‐ and 3′‐terminal cis‐acting elements important for (−)‐strand synthesis. Further analysis demonstrated that N protein can act as a bridge to facilitate interaction between the 5′‐ and 3′‐ends of the CoV genome, leading to circularization of the genome. Together, the current study extends our understanding of the mechanism of CoV (−)‐strand RNA synthesis through involvement of N protein and genome circularization and thus may explain why the addition of N protein in trans is required for efficient CoV replication.
Dissecting the membrane lipid binding properties and lipase activity of Mycobacterium tuberculosis LipY domains
Authors: Santucci Pierre , Smichi Nabil , Diomandé Sadia , Poncin Isabelle , Point Vanessa , Gaussier Hélène , Cavalier Jean‐François , Kremer Laurent , Canaan Stéphane
Published: May 2019

The Mycobacterium tuberculosis LipY protein, a prototype of the proline‐glutamic acid (PE) family, exhibits a triacylglycerol (TAG) hydrolase activity that contributes to host cell lipid degradation and persistence of the bacilli. LipY is found either as a full‐length intracytosolic form or as a mature extracellular form lacking the N‐terminal PE domain. Even though the contribution of the extracellular form in TAG consumption has been partly elucidated, very little information is available regarding the potential interactions of either full‐length LipY with the cytoplasmic membrane, or mature form LipY with the outer membrane. Herein, several LipY variants truncated in their N‐terminal domain were produced and biochemically characterized in lipid–protein interaction assays, using the monomolecular film technique and FTIR. Comparison of the catalytic activities of these recombinant proteins showed that LipY∆149, corresponding to the extracellular form of LipY lacking the PE domain, is more active than the full‐length protein. This confirms previous studies reporting that the PE domain negatively modulates the TAG hydrolase activity of LipY. Lipid–protein interaction studies indicate that the PE domain anchors LipY onto membrane lipids. Consistent with these findings, we show that LipY∆149 is loosely associated with the mycobacterial cell wall, and that this interaction is mediated by the sole lipase domain. Overall, our results bring new information regarding the molecular mechanisms by which LipY either binds and hydrolyses host cell lipids or degrades TAG, the major source of lipids within mycobacterial intracytosolic lipid inclusions.
New Olivine Reference Material for In Situ Microanalysis
Authors: Batanova Valentina G. , Thompson Jay M. , Danyushevsky Leonid V. , Portnyagin Maxim V. , Garbe‐Schönberg Dieter , Hauri Erik , Kimura Jun‐Ichi , Chang Qing , Senda Ryoko , Goemann Karsten , Chauvel Catherine , Campillo Sylvain , Ionov Dmitri A. , Sobolev Alexander V.
Published: May 2019

A new olivine reference material – MongOL Sh11‐2 – for in situ analysis has been prepared from the central portion of a large (20 × 20 × 10 cm) mantle peridotite xenolith from a ~ 0.5 My old basaltic breccia at Shavaryn‐Tsaram, Tariat region, central Mongolia. The xenolith is a fertile mantle lherzolite with minimal signs of alteration. Approximately 10 g of 0.5–2 mm gem quality olivine fragments were separated under binocular microscope and analysed by EPMA, LA‐ICP‐MS, SIMS and bulk analytical methods (ID‐ICP‐MS for Mg and Fe, XRF, ICP‐MS) for major, minor and trace elements at six institutions world‐wide. The results show that the olivine fragments are sufficiently homogeneous with respect to major (Mg, Fe, Si), minor and trace elements. Significant inhomogeneity was revealed only for phosphorus (homogeneity index of 12.4), whereas Li, Na, Al, Sc, Ti and Cr show minor inhomogeneity (homogeneity index of 1–2). The presence of some mineral and fluid‐melt micro‐inclusions may be responsible for the inconsistency in mass fractions obtained by in situ and bulk analytical methods for Al, Cu, Sr, Zr, Ga, Dy and Ho. Here we report reference and information values for twenty‐seven major, minor and trace elements.
Why so few acting whistleblowers? Impacts of institutional anticorruption
Authors: Su Su
Published: May 2019

Despite strong whistleblowing intention, very few truly act to blow the whistle. Building on a random sample of local citizens with citywide anticorruption performance indicators, this study investigated the linkages between institutional anticorruption and citizens' whistleblowing acts, both directly and indirectly via situational settings (i.e., corruption incidence and corruptive climate). The findings confirmed the impacts of varying anticorruption practices and detected both direct and indirect trajectories. More judicial convictions against senior officials directly reduced citizens' subsequent whistleblowing acts, but also indirectly invited more as they signaled more ensuing corruption incidence, with overall effects toward reduced whistleblowing. More citywide public whistleblowing incentivized more individual whistleblowing subsequently; yet, such effects were canceled out as such practices also deterred ensuing corruption incidence and indirectly reduced citizens' acts. The total effects explained why there were so few acting whistleblowers. The study concludes with discussion of research findings and potential policy implications.
Preparation and properties of dense ZrB2 composite reinforced by elongated SiC and Al3BC3 grains
Authors: Chen Zhibo , Zhao Xiaotong , Wang Hailong , Shao Gang , Liu Wen , Zhang Rui , Xu Hongliang , Fan Bingbing , Lu Hongxia , Chu Yanhui , Lee Sea‐Hoon
Published: May 2019

Dense ZrB2‐SiC‐Al3BC3 ultra‐high temperature ceramic composite was fabricated by hot pressing sintering at 1900°C for 1 hour under a pressure of 20 MPa using Zirconium diboride (ZrB2) as the raw material and a powder mixture of SiC, B4C, Al, and carbon as the sintering additive. Al and B4C underwent in situ reaction with carbon powder to produce Al3BC3, which promoted the densification of ZrB2 ceramic. SiC grains were found to be elongated during sintering. The ZrB2‐SiC‐Al3BC3 composite exhibited excellent mechanical properties, such as high flexural strength of 589 ± 147 MPa and fracture toughness of 7.81 ± 1.09 MPa m1/2. Oxidation behavior of the ZrB2‐SiC‐Al3BC3 composite was studied in air at 1500°C for 1 hour. A continuous layer of oxides consisting of a mixture of SiO2, Al2SiO5, and Al2O3 was formed on the surface of the ZrB2‐SiC‐Al3BC3 composite. This layer of oxides efficiently prevented oxygen from diffusing into the specimens during oxidation, which improved the oxidation resistance of the ZrB2 ceramics.
Thermal properties of processed lunar regolith simulant
Authors: Fateri Miranda , Sottong Reinhard , Kolbe Matthias , Gamer Julie , Sperl Matthias , Cowley Aidan
Published: May 2019

In this paper, the thermal characterization of lunar regolith simulant, sintered using a conventional oven under ambient and vacuum conditions is presented. Additionally, thermal characterization of samples is performed for the parts manufactured using solar, laser, and microwave processing. Samples for oven sintering are prepared using regolith bulk simulant as well as simulant pressed at 255 MPa for 10 minutes. Similar experiments are performed with a mixture of Johnson Space Center (JSC)‐2A + 20 wt% of ilmenite, a common lunar mineral. Samples are characterized regarding their thermal capacity, thermal diffusivity, density, and thermal conductivity. Furthermore, sample morphology is studied using scanning electron microscopy. Lastly, processing of regolith for lunar thermal energy storage is discussed.
Tb3+as probe ion—Clustering and phase separation in borate and borosilicate glasses
Authors: Herrmann Andreas , Völksch Günter , Ehrt Doris
Published: May 2019

Various borate and borosilicate glasses doped with Tb3+ in a broad concentration range of 1 × 1018 to 1 × 1021 Tb3+ per cm3 (~0.01 to 10 wt% Tb2O3) were prepared and characterized by different methods. Static fluorescence excitation and emission spectra of Tb3+ in the ultraviolet‐visible range were recorded. The fluorescence decay rates of the green emission were measured and fitted. Different lifetimes dependent on different local sites of Tb3+ ions were detected. To identify these different local sites crystalline terbium borate, TbBO3, was prepared and investigated. X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and electron microscopy measurements were used. Very strong clustering effects of Tb 3+ ions were detected as preliminary stage of phase separation by formation of a very short decay rate in optically clear borate containing glasses with low optical basicity. In glass samples with phase separation, the Tb3+ ions were accumulated in the phase with higher optical basicity. The local sites of the Tb3+ ions in the clusters induce a short lifetime which is similar to the lifetime of crystalline TbBO3. Only mono‐exponential decay curves for Tb3+ fluorescence were detected in sodium borosilicate glass with high optical basicity, and in zinc borate glass, without tendency to phase separation.
Linear regression models for estimating the effect of technological factors on the sensory characteristics of goat cheeses
Authors: Ruiz Pérez‐Cacho Pilar , de la Haba Ruiz María Auxiliadora , Dios‐Palomares Rafaela , Galán‐Soldevilla Hortensia
Published: May 2019

Linear regression models were applied to predict the effect of the breed and technological factors on the sensory characteristic of cheeses. Seventy goat cheeses from forty local producers were analysed. They represented the totality of the Andalusian cheese‐making sector (different goat breeds, type of coagulant, ripening time and heat treatment of milk). Sensory attributes of cheeses were influenced by all the factors studied. Ripening affects all sensory attributes while the breed and the heat treatment are the most influential factors on the flavour and the type of coagulant on the texture attributes of these cheeses. Linear regression models were found to be suitable for studying which factors had an independent influence on the sensory attributes of these cheeses. This work could help researchers and producers to a better sensory characterisation of their products.
Key to Effective Organizational Performance Management Lies at the Intersection of Paradox Theory and Stakeholder Theory
Authors: Pinto Jonathan
Published: May 2019

One of the fundamental and recurring issues in performance management is the adoption of a simplistic, short‐term, narrow, metrics‐oriented approach, which often results in unintended negative outcomes, some of which could be disastrous. This paper makes the case that the key to preventing this syndrome lies at the intersection of paradox and stakeholder theories. Both theories encourage a more complex, long‐term, holistic, balanced approach to management. Stakeholder theory focuses on addressing the many (sometimes conflicting) goals of multiple stakeholders, and paradox theory provides insights into how this challenging task (i.e. of simultaneously addressing multiple conflicting priorities) can be accomplished. Thus, the former provides the ‘what’ and the latter the ‘how’ of effective organizational performance management. Accordingly, the literature at the intersection of both theories (composed of 69 scholarly outputs), was reviewed, and in so doing, identified seven domain areas and 21 constructs, all of which implicitly deal with either performance management or its communication, thereby lending support to this paper's thesis. The implications of this review for both theory and practice, including the role of paradoxical cognitive mechanisms, is discussed.
Internet Search Intensity and Its Relation with Trading Activity and Stock Returns*
Authors: Chai Daniel , Dai Mengjia , Gharghori Philip , Hong Barbara
Published: May 2019

Using Google search volume as a proxy for investor attention, this paper provides evidence on the role attention plays in financial markets. We first show that abnormal Google search volume (ASVI) helps explain cross‐sectional variations in trading activity, even after controlling for its important determinants. Specifically, ASVI is positively related to trading volume, order imbalance and liquidity. When the relation between stock returns and ASVI is examined, we find a strong positive relation in the month after attention shocks and a reversal over a longer holding period. We further conjecture that the attention effect is more pronounced in stocks with higher limits to arbitrage. For this purpose, we construct a limits‐to‐arbitrage index and show that limits to arbitrage play an important role in explaining the attention effect.
Developing community capability for e‐commerce development in rural China: A resource orchestration perspective
Authors: Cui Miao , Pan Shan L. , Cui Lili
Published: May 2019

Community capability enables a large number of rural citizens to cooperatively engage in e‐commerce as an e‐commerce cluster, and it thus plays a critical role in e‐commerce development in the rural regions of developing countries. Taking the resource orchestration perspective as the theoretical lens, this study investigates the process for developing community capability. Two cases of community capability development in rural Chinese villages are studied. The findings reveal two settings for community capability development—government supported and self‐orchestrated—and show that community capability is developed through the individual capabilities of lead users and the resource orchestration interactions of stakeholders. This study has theoretical implications because it reveals the importance of developing community capability by orchestrating resources beyond merely providing training and education to rural community members and because it identifies the processes for developing community capability in the two respective settings. It also extends the resource orchestration perspective from a single‐firm context to a community context by revealing the resource orchestration interactions.
Effect of CaF2, B2O3 and the CaO/SiO2 mass ratio on the viscosity and structure of B2O3‐containing calcium‐silicate‐based melts
Authors: Kim Gi Hyun , Sohn Il
Published: May 2019

The relationship between the viscosity and structure of B2O3‐containing calcium‐silicate‐based mold fluxes and the effects of fluidizers including CaF2, CaO, and B2O3 on the viscosity and their correlation with the structural aspects were studied using a rheometer with Fourier transformation infrared and Raman spectroscopy. The viscosity decreased with increasing CaF2 addition up to 28 wt% at a fixed CaO/SiO2 ratio of 0.3, which was related to depolymerization. Furthermore, CaF2 addition also affected the apparent activation energy for viscous flow, which decreased with increasing CaF2 content to 105.1 from 151.1 kJ/mol. At higher C/S ratios, the viscosity decreased in the presence of greater Ca2+ and O2− supplied from CaO, which subsequently increased the activation energy to 149.7 from 122.0 kJ/mol. With regard to the B2O3‐melt, polymerization of the network structure was observed by comparing the B2O3‐free to 4.4 wt% B2O3 content. However, the viscosity was relatively constant with increasing B2O3 addition. However, the viscosity decreased due to greater simplification of the network structure above 4.4 wt% B2O3. The break temperature decreased with greater B2O3 addition as the crystallization was inhibited. Furthermore, the apparent activation energy decreased as depolymerization of the network structures occurred above 4.4 wt% B2O3.
The evaluation of nurse navigators in chronic and complex care
Authors: Harvey Clare , Palmer Janine , Hegney Desley , Willis Eileen , Baldwin Adele , Rees Clare , Heritage Brody , Thompson Shona , Forrest Rachel , O’Donnell Christopher , Marshall Robert , Mclellan Sandy , Sibley Jonathon , Judd Jenni , Ferguson Bridget , Bamford‐Wade Anita , Brain David
Published: May 2019

Aim

With increasing age and chronicity in populations, the need to reduce the costs of care while enhancing quality and hospital avoidance, is important. Nurse‐led co‐ordination is one such model of care that supports this approach. The aim of this research was to assess the impact that newly appointed Navigators have on service provision; social and economic impact; nurses’ professional quality of life and compassion fatigue; and analysis of the change that has occurred to models of care and service delivery.

Design

A concurrent mixed‐method approach was selected to address the research aims.

Methods

The research project was funded in July 2018 and will conclude in December 2020. Several cohorts will be studied including; patients assigned to a navigator, patients not assigned to a navigator, family members of patients assigned a navigator; and a sample sized estimated at 140 navigators.

Discussion

This study provides a comprehensive international longitudinal and mixed method framework for evaluating the impact of nurse navigators on quality of care outcomes for patients with chronic conditions.

Impact—What problem will the study address?

Even with specialty focused co‐ordinated care, patients get lost in the system, increasing the incidence of non‐compliance and exacerbation of condition. Navigators work with patients across service boundaries allowing for care that is patient responsive, and permitting variables in clinical, social and practical elements of care to be addressed in a timely manner. This novel nurse‐led approach, supports hospital avoidance and patient self‐management, while encouraging expansion and opportunity for the nursing and midwifery workforce.
Statistics of Mendelian segregation—A mixture model
Authors: Wang Meiyue , Xu Shizhong
Published: May 2019

Mendel's law of segregation explains why genetic variation can be maintained over time. In diploid organisms, an offspring receives one allele from each parent, not just half of the blended genetic material of the parents. Which of the two alleles is received is purely random. This stochastic process generates genetic variation among members of the same family, called Mendelian segregation variance or within‐family variance. In statistics, the genetic value of a quantitative trait for an offspring follows a mixture distribution consisting of the four alleles of the two parents, guided by a Mendelian variable from each parent. The mixture model allows us to partition the total genetic variance into between‐family and within‐family variances. In the absence of inbreeding, the genetic variance splits half to the between‐family variance and half to the within‐family variance. With inbreeding, however, the between‐family variance is increased at the cost of the within‐family variance, leading to a net increase of the total genetic variance. This study defines multiple Mendelian variables and develops a mixture model of quantitative genetics. The phenomenon that allelic variance is maintained over time is guided by “the law of conservation of allelic variance” in biology, which is comparable to “the law of conservation of mass” in physics.
Interactions between ecological, evolutionary and environmental processes unveil complex dynamics of insular plant diversity
Authors: Cabral Juliano Sarmento , Wiegand Kerstin , Kreft Holger
Published: May 2019

Aims

Understanding how biodiversity emerges and how it varies in space and time requires integration of the underlying processes that affect biodiversity at different levels of ecological organization. We present BioGEEM (BioGeographical Eco‐Evolutionary Model), a spatially explicit model that integrates theories and processes understood to drive biodiversity dynamics. We investigated the necessary degree of mechanistic complexity by exploring simulation experiments to evaluate the relative roles of the underlying processes across spatio‐temporal scales and ecological levels (e.g. populations, species, communities).

Location

Hypothetical oceanic islands.

Methods

BioGEEM is stochastic and grid‐based, and it integrates ecological (metabolic constraints, demography, dispersal and competition), evolutionary (mutation and speciation) and environmental (geo‐climatic dynamics) processes. Plants on oceanic islands served as a model system. We ran the simulations both with all processes on and with selected processes switched off to assess the role of each process from the emergent patterns.

Results

The full model was able to generate patterns matching empirical evidence and theoretical expectations. Population sizes were largest on young islands, and species, particularly endemics, better filled their potential range on young and old islands due to limited area and reduced competition. Richness peaked at mid‐elevations. The proportion of endemics was highest in old, large and isolated environments within the islands. Species and trait richness showed unimodal temporal trends. Switching off selected processes led to several unrealistic patterns, including the evolution of super‐dominant species, extremely high richness and weakened spatial diversity gradients.

Main conclusions

The main predictions derived from BioGEEM are: Competition has cross‐scale effects on diversity. Hump‐shaped temporal dynamics can be obtained without speciation. Endemic species seem less susceptible to extinction than native non‐endemic species. Endemism reflects stronger geographical and environmental isolation. Finally, only the integration of all implemented processes generates realistic spatio‐temporal dynamics at population, species, community and assemblage levels.
A Simulation Model Of Multi‐Echelon Retail Inventory With Cross‐Channel Product Returns
Authors: Muir William A. , Griffis Stanley E. , Whipple Judith M.
Published: May 2019

This study explores the relationship between a retailer's product returns processing structure and Multi‐Echelon inventory system performance under cross‐channel and same‐channel product returns policies with nonstationary demand. Our research contributes to the growing body of reverse logistics literature, offering insight into how a retailer's logistical returns management strategy can impact inventory effectiveness in cross‐channel retail environments. Adopting a contingency framework, we develop research hypotheses which we test through experimentation on a Multi‐Echelon retail inventory system within a discrete‐event simulation. Model parameters are derived from data collected from a large U.S. retailer of consumer durable and nondurable goods. We find an amplifying effect of a cross‐channel returns policy on the positive relationship between a decentralized returns processing structure and inventory effectiveness. Further, through our analysis of nonstationarity in demand and resulting returns, we uncover strong main and interaction effects that seasonal demand variation can have on inventory outcomes, even under only moderate levels of seasonality. Our results highlight the need for firms to align logistical structures for returns processing with the returns policy and the external environment, while also lending credence to calls within the logistics literature for improved modeling of nonstationary demand in inventory management research.
Study on the relationship between telomere length changes and recurrence of atrial fibrillation after radiofrequency catheter ablation
Authors: Su Changyang , Liu Zheng , Gao Yuanfeng , Liu Ye , Hu Rou‐Mu , Liu Jia , Yang Xiyan , Li Shichao , Zhang Yuan , Zuo Kun , Cao Boli , Luo Jing , Li Jing , Li Kuibao , Yin Xiandong , Chen Mulei , Yang Xinchun
Published: May 2019

Introduction

Advanced age is the foremost risk factor for atrial fibrillation (AF). Telomere length is a surrogate for biological aging, but the association between shortened leukocyte telomere length (LTL) and recurrence of AF (RAF) after ablation remains inconclusive.

Methods

In this prospective analysis, 282 patients underwent an initial catheter ablation for paroxysmal or persistent AF. The association between RAF and LTL was analyzed by univariate and multivariate Cox regression, as well as time‐dependent receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis and Kaplan‐Meier analysis.

Results

After a mean follow‐up of 14.20 ± 5.04 months, RAF was documented in 78 of the 277 patients who completed the study (28.16%). In Cox proportional hazards models, LTL, age, diagnosis to ablation time (DTAT), N‐terminal pronatriuretic peptide, and CHA2DS2‐VASc score were significantly associated with RAF. After multivariable adjustment, LTL and DTAT were predicted as independent risk factors for RAF with hazard ratio (HR) of 3.17 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.23‐8.15, P = 0.017) and 1.43 (95% CI: 1.10‐1.86, P = 0.007), respectively. In addition, ROC analysis indicated the potential diagnostic value of LTL with an area under the curve of 0.64 (P < 0.001; sensitivity = 60.3%, specificity = 57.8%), and an optimum cut‐off value of 1.040. LTL less than or equal to 1.040 was defined as shortened LTL, while LTL greater than 1.040 nonshortened LTL. Kaplan‐Meier analysis showed RAF rate curve was separated significantly between two groups (21.2% vs 35.9%, log‐rank test result P = 0.007). Patients with shortened LTL might have a higher risk for RAF with HR = 1.84 (P = 0.008).

Conclusions

Shortened LTL is an independent risk factor for AF recurrence. Shortened LTL could be a potential biomarker in predicting RAF after ablation.
Regeneration of alveolar ridge defects. Consensus report of group 4 of the 15th European Workshop on Periodontology on Bone Regeneration
Authors: Jepsen Søren , Schwarz Frank , Cordaro Luca , Derks Jan , Hämmerle Christoph H. F. , Heitz‐Mayfield Lisa J. , Hernández‐Alfaro Federico , Meijer Henny J. A. , Naenni Nadja , Ortiz‐Vigón Alberto , Pjetursson Bjarni , Raghoebar Gerry M. , Renvert Stefan , Rocchietta Isabella , Roccuzzo Mario , Sanz‐Sánchez Ignacio , Simion Massimo , Tomasi Cristiano , Trombelli Leonardo , Urban Istvan
Published: May 2019

Background and Aims

Bone augmentation procedures to enable dental implant placement are frequently performed. The remit of this working group was to evaluate the current evidence on the efficacy of regenerative measures for the reconstruction of alveolar ridge defects.

Material and Methods

The discussions were based on four systematic reviews focusing on lateral bone augmentation with implant placement at a later stage, vertical bone augmentation, reconstructive treatment of peri‐implantitis associated defects, and long‐term results of lateral window sinus augmentation procedures.

Results

A substantial body of evidence supports lateral bone augmentation prior to implant placement as a predictable procedure in order to gain sufficient ridge width for implant placement. Also, vertical ridge augmentation procedures were in many studies shown to be effective in treating deficient alveolar ridges to allow for dental implant placement. However, for both procedures the rate of associated complications was high. The adjunctive benefit of reconstructive measures for the treatment of peri‐implantitis‐related bone defects has only been assessed in a few RCTs. Meta‐analyses demonstrated a benefit with regard to radiographic bone gain but not for clinical outcomes. Lateral window sinus floor augmentation was shown to be a reliable procedure in the long term for the partially and fully edentulous maxilla.

Conclusions

The evaluated bone augmentation procedures were proven to be effective for the reconstruction of alveolar ridge defects. However, some procedures are demanding and bear a higher risk for post‐operative complications.
Quality of life measurement in hidradenitis suppurativa: position statement of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology task forces on Quality of Life and Patient‐Oriented Outcomes and Acne, Rosacea and Hidradenitis Suppurativa
Authors: Chernyshov P.V. , Zouboulis C.C. , Tomas‐Aragones L. , Jemec G.B. , Svensson A. , Manolache L. , Tzellos T. , Sampogna F. , Pustisek N. , van der Zee H.H. , Marron S.E. , Spillekom‐van Koulil S. , Bewley A. , Linder D. , Abeni D. , Szepietowski J.C. , Augustin M. , Finlay A.Y.
Published: May 2019

This paper is organized jointly by the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology (EADV) Task Force (TF) on Quality of Life (QoL) and Patient‐Oriented Outcomes and the EADV TF on acne, rosacea and hidradenitis suppurativa (ARHS). The purpose of this paper was to present current knowledge about QoL assessment in HS, including data on HS‐specific health‐related (HR) QoL instruments and HRQoL changes in clinical trials, and to make practical recommendations concerning the assessment of QoL in people with HS. HS results in significant quimp that is higher than in most other chronic skin diseases. HS impact in published studies was assessed predominantly (84% of studies) by the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI). There is a lack of high‐quality clinical trials in HS patients where HRQoL instruments have been used as outcome measures. One double‐blind randomized placebo‐controlled trial on infliximab with low number of participants reported significantly better HRQoL improvement in the treatment group than in the placebo group. Well‐designed clinical studies in HS patients to compare different treatment methods, including surgical methods and assessing long‐term effects, are needed. Because of lack of sufficient validation, the Task Forces are not at present able to recommend existing HS‐specific HRQoL instruments for use in clinical studies. The EADV TFs recommend the dermatology‐specific DLQI questionnaire for use in HS patients. The EADV TFs encourage the further development, validation and use of other HS‐specific, dermatology‐specific and generic instruments but such use should be based on the principles presented in the previous publications of the EADV TF on QoL and Patient‐Oriented Outcomes.
Unprecedented widespread occurrence of Pink Salmon Oncorhynchus gorbuscha in Ireland in 2017
Authors: Millane Michael , Walsh Laura , Roche William K. , Gargan Patrick G.
Published: May 2019

The occurrence of non‐native pink salmon Oncorhynchus gorbuscha in multiple river systems in Ireland in 2017 was unprecedented and reflected similar concurrent events observed in other countries in the North Atlantic region. Thirty‐six fish were captured in a total of 11 river systems located in the south‐west, west and north‐west of Ireland in the period June to September 2017. The biological characteristics of sampled specimens are described and the potential for establishment in Ireland are considered.
REVISITING BOOKBUILDING VERSUS AUCTION IPOS: A PERSPECTIVE OF INFORMATIONALLY EFFICIENT PRICES IN THE AFTERMARKET
Authors: Shim Hyeongsop , Lee Junyoup , Yi Ha‐Chin
Published: May 2019

We compare price efficiency between auction and bookbuilding initial public offerings (IPOs). Our empirical results fail to support the prevailing conjecture that bookbuilding IPOs are more price efficient than auction IPOs. We find statistical insignificance between two IPO samples or weak evidence for the opposite hypothesis. We add to the evidence that auctions yield aftermarket price efficiency equal to that of bookbuilding or are statistically indifferent when measured by market microstructure and Center for Research in Security Prices (CRSP) data. We also examine whether underlying price efficiency forces reflect the relative presence of informed institutional and retail investors, aftermarket price support, and divergence of investor expectations.
Mass modeling of kinnow mandarin based on some physical attributes
Authors: Mahawar Manoj K. , Bibwe Bhushan , Jalgaonkar Kirti , Ghodki Bhupendra M.
Published: May 2019

The correlation between the physical properties of fruits such as their dimensions, projected areas, volume, and mass may assist in predicting fruit quality along with the development of post‐harvest machinery. Thus, the present study aims to predict the mass of kinnow mandarin (Citrus reticulata L.) fruit as a function of its axial dimensions, projected areas, and volume using linear and nonlinear mathematical models (quadratic, power, and s‐curve). Further, the mass models were presented under three different classifications: dimension based, projected area based, and volume based. The effect of size grading was also evaluated and compared with the data of ungraded fruits. Results showed that mass modeling based on dimensions and volume of ungraded fruits was more appropriate compared to individual grades. The quadratic model based on geometric mean diameter (R2 = 0.956) and ellipsoid volume (R2 = 0.955) are recommended for predicting the mass of ungraded fruits with maximal accuracy.

Practical application

Mass based fruit grading is one of the important aspects of packaging as it not only reduces the wastage of handling and transportation resources by optimizing packaging formations but also enhances the marketability of commodity. Consumers generally prefer the fruits of uniform size, weight, and shape. Grading of horticultural produce is usually based on its appearance, size, and weight. The automatic fruit grading techniques generally use mass as a grading parameter due to its accuracy and effectiveness of the operation. The available kinnow grading systems primarily grade the fruits based on their dimensional attributes. Hence, the study was aimed at mass modeling of kinnow mandarin based on the selected engineering attributes such that results might be helpful to develop an accurate automatic grading system for grading based on the combined approach of size and mass. This study provides information about relationships between fruit mass and axial dimensions, projected areas, and volume, which are useful for the development of mass, and size based kinnow grading systems.