bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification of the impurity phase in high-purity CeB6 by convergent-beam electron diffraction
Authors: Peng Ding , Nakashima Philip N. H.
Published: March 2019

The rare earth hexaborides are known for their tendency towards very high crystal perfection. They can be grown into large single crystals of very high purity by inert gas arc floating zone refinement. The authors have found that single-crystal cerium hexaboride grown in this manner contains a significant number of inclusions of an impurity phase that interrupts the otherwise single crystallinity of this prominent cathode material. An iterative approach is used to unequivocally determine the space group and the lattice parameters of the impurity phase based on geometries of convergent-beam electron diffraction (CBED) patterns and the symmetry elements that they possess in their intensity distributions. It is found that the impurity phase has a tetragonal unit cell with space group P4/mbm and lattice parameters a = b = 7.23 ± 0.03 and c = 4.09 ± 0.02 Å. These agree very well with those of a known material, CeB4. Confirmation that this is indeed the identity of the impurity phase is provided by quantitative CBED (QCBED) where the very close match between experimental and calculated CBED patterns has confirmed the atomic structure. Further confirmation is provided by a density functional theory calculation and also by high-angle annular dark-field scanning transmission electron microscopy.
Sodium dirubidium citrate, NaRb2C6H5O7, and sodium dirubidium citrate dihydrate, NaRb2C6H5O7(H2O)2
Authors: Cigler Andrew J. , Kaduk James A.
Published: March 2019

The crystal structures of sodium dirubidium citrate {poly[μ-citrato-dirubidium(I)sodium(I)], [NaRb2(C6H5O7)]
n
} and sodium dirubidium citrate dihydrate {poly[diaqua(μ-citrato)dirubidium(I)sodium(I)], [NaRb2(C6H5O7)(H2O)2]
n
} have been solved and refined using laboratory X-ray powder diffraction data, and optimized using density functional techniques. Both structures contain Na chains and Rb layers, which link to form different three-dimensional frameworks. In each structure, the citrate triply chelates to the Na+ cation. Each citrate also chelates to Rb+ cations. In the dihydrate structure, the water molecules are bonded to the Rb+ cations; the Na+ cation is coordinated only to citrate O atoms. Both structures contain an intramolecular O—H...O hydrogen bond between the hydroxy group and one of the terminal carboxylate groups. In the structure of the dihydrate, each hydrogen atom of the water molecules participates in a hydrogen bond to an ionized carboxylate group.
Crystal structure of NiFe(CO)5[tris(pyridylmethyl)azaphosphatrane]: a synthetic mimic of the NiFe hydrogenase active site incorporating a pendant pyridine base
Authors: Sutthirat Natwara , Ziller Joseph W. , Yang Jenny Y. , Thammavongsy Zachary
Published: March 2019

The reaction of Ni(TPAP)(COD) {where TPAP = [(NC5H4)CH2]3P(NC2H4)3N} with Fe(CO)5 resulted in the isolation of the title heterobimetallic NiFe(TPAP)(CO)5 complex di-μ-carbonyl-tricarbonyl[2,8,9-tris(pyridin-2-ylmethyl)-2,5,8,9-tetraaza-1-phosphabicyclo[3.3.3]undecane]ironnickel, [FeNi(C24H30N7P)(CO)5]. Characterization of the complex by 1H and 31P NMR as well as IR spectroscopy are presented. The structure of NiFe(TPAP)(CO)5 reveals three terminally bound CO molecules on Fe0, two bridging CO molecules between Ni0 and Fe0, and TPAP coordinated to Ni0. The Ni—Fe bond length is 2.4828 (4) Å, similar to that of the reduced form of the active site of NiFe hydrogenase (∼2.5 Å). Additionally, a proximal pendant base from one of the non-coordinating pyridine groups of TPAP is also present. Although involvement of a pendant base has been cited in the mechanism of NiFe hydrogenase, this moiety has yet to be incorporated in a structurally characterized synthetic mimic with key structural motifs (terminally bound CO or CN ligands on Fe). Thus, the title complex NiFe(TPAP)(CO)5 is an unique synthetic model for NiFe hydrogenase. In the crystal, the complex molecules are linked by C—H...O hydrogen bonds, forming undulating layers parallel to (100). Within the layers, there are offset π–π [intercentroid distance = 3.2739 (5) Å] and C—H...π interactions present. The layers are linked by further C—H...π interactions, forming a supramolecular framework.
Control and empowerment as an organising paradox: implications for management control systems
Authors: Lewis Rachael L. , Brown David A. , Sutton Nicole C.
Published: March 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to reframe the debate about the tension between management control and employee empowerment by drawing on a theory of paradox. Reframing the problem in this way draws attention to the variety of ways in which organisations can attend to both control and empowerment simultaneously.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors undertake a conceptual examination of the relationship between empowerment and control using a paradox theory lens. First, the authors bring together two dimensions of empowerment – structural empowerment and psychological empowerment – and combine them to produce three new empowerment “scenarios”: illusory empowerment, obstructed empowerment and authentic empowerment. For each of these three scenarios, the central tenets of paradox theory are applied in order to explain the nature of the paradoxical tension, anticipated behavioural responses and the resulting challenges for ongoing management control.

Findings

The authors find that neither structural nor psychological empowerment alone can account for variation in behavioural responses to management control. The conceptual analysis highlights the interplay of socio-ideological control and systems of accountability in generating psychological empowerment and demonstrates that this does not come at a cost to management control but instead results in a reduction in the scale and scope of ongoing challenges.

Originality/value

This paper contributes a new theoretical perspective on the classic problem of tension between management control and employee empowerment. Rather than positioning control and empowerment either as a managerial choice or dialectic, the authors identify three different ways in which organisations can engage with both paradoxical elements simultaneously.
How many girls are we missing in ASD? An examination from a clinic- and community-based sample
Authors: Barnard-Brak Lucy , Richman David , Almekdash M. Hasan
Published: March 2019

Purpose

Research has indicated that males diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) outnumber females diagnosed with ASD, which has been attributed to a number of potential biological and genetic risk factors. The purpose of this paper is to estimate how many girls may be missing from ASD via a two-study format, comparing two distinct data sets to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention population estimates for sex distribution of males vs females in ASD.

Design/methodology/approach

In Study 1, the authors utilized data from the National Database for Autism Research as a clinic-based sample. In Study 2, the authors utilized data from the National Survey of Children’s Health as a community-based sample.

Findings

The current study estimates that approximately 39 percent more girls should be diagnosed with ASD. The authors estimate that the sex distribution in ASD should be approximately 28 percent female and 72 percent male based upon current practices. Thus, it appears that more females are being identified as potentially having ASD but were not subsequently being diagnosed with ASD as compared to their male counterparts.

Originality/value

These results could suggest that a leaky pipeline in the assessment of girls with ASD may exist along one or more points in the ASD diagnostic process, with one potential point at the level of ASD-specific screening (i.e. the SCQ in Study 1) in the clinic setting and another in the community setting as a whole for universal screening (i.e. NSCH data in Study 2).
Festival attachment: antecedents and effects on place attachment and place loyalty
Authors: Tsaur Sheng-Hshiung , Wang Yao-Chin , Liu Chyong-Ru , Huang Wen-Shiung
Published: March 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to propose the mechanism of festival attachment and examine how it serves as a significant predictor of place attachment and place loyalty.

Design/methodology/approach

Through on-site survey with convenience sampling, 465 visitors were surveyed at the Pingxi Sky Lantern Festival, which is one of the most famous Taiwanese festivals. Structural equation modeling is used to examine the proposed research model.

Findings

Empirical results of this study reveal that “hedonism” is the most important antecedent for improving festival attachment, followed by novelty seeking, attractions and cultural exploration. Festival attachment exerts positive effects on place attachment, which then increases place loyalty. Moreover, place attachment partially mediates the relationship between festival attachment and place loyalty.

Originality/value

By hosting festivals, festival managers can induce festival attachment in visitors and then transfer the attachment with festivals into the host place. The findings of this study demonstrate the major role of festivals in promoting local tourism.
Changes in subjective wellbeing of prisoners on remand
Authors: Bloem Oscar , Bulten Erik , Verkes Robbert-Jan
Published: March 2019

Purpose

Low levels of subjective wellbeing in prisoners may relate to mental health problems and difficulties in reintegration after imprisonment. The development of subjective wellbeing during imprisonment is mostly unclear. The purpose of this paper is to explore this development in a longitudinal study in association with mental disorders and socioeconomic factors.

Design/methodology/approach

Subjective wellbeing was assessed via a visual analogue scale and retrieved at admission to remand prison and then again after four and eight weeks. Changes in subjective wellbeing between time-points were analyzed taking into account mental disorders and socioeconomic factors, which were assessed by use of the Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview – Plus and the Camberwell Assessment of Need – Forensic Version, respectively.

Findings

On average, subjective wellbeing declined directly after remand prison admission, but differences between individuals were found. At remand prison admission, subjective wellbeing significantly improved rather than declined in prisoners with alcohol and substance use disorders, housing problems, unemployment prior to incarceration and in relatively older prisoners. Other related factors did not add significance to this model. In contrast, during remand imprisonment subjective wellbeing displayed an overall increase. For this increase, no predicting factors were found. However, prisoners with an antisocial personality disorder are more at risk of experiencing a decrease in wellbeing during remand imprisonment.

Originality/value

In general, the Dutch prison system appears not to result in a decrease in subjective wellbeing in prisoners suffering from a mental disorder during remand imprisonment.
Comparing health status, disability, and access to care in older and younger inmates in the New South Wales corrections system
Authors: Field Courtney , Archer Vicki
Published: March 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to compare the rates of chronic illness, disability and access to care between older and younger inmates who took part in a large epidemiological study in New South Wales, Australia.

Design/methodology/approach

Data are presented from a cross-sectional study based on a sample of inmates from correctional sites in NSW. The inclusion of results here was guided by the literature with regard to their relevance to older people, and older inmates in particular.

Findings

Results indicate that a higher proportion of older inmates suffer a range of chronic illnesses, with prevalence often many times higher than that of younger inmates. Older inmates are more likely to be classified as disabled and have a disability which impacts their mobility. Older inmates also reported accessing medical services in prison more recently than younger inmates and were more likely to have seen both nurses and general practitioners.

Practical implications

Older inmates appear to be considerably more resource intensive than younger inmates. The increasing proportion of inmates who are classified as older thus poses a pressing challenge to those working in the carceral space and, in particular, those responsible for providing healthcare to incarcerated people.

Originality/value

The impact of aging prisoners on resource demand has yet to be effectively measured. This study provides an important first step towards that goal.
Assessments of mental capacity: upholding the rights of the vulnerable or the misleading comfort of pseudo objectivity?
Authors: Rogers Jim , Bright Lucy
Published: March 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present findings from a research project which investigated the approaches of different groups of assessors to the mental capacity assessments which are required to be conducted as part of Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DOLS).

Design/methodology/approach

Four case study vignettes were given to participants. Three groups involved in the DOLS assessment process were interviewed by telephone about the factors that may influence their capacity assessments.

Findings

Most assessors did not refer to the required two-stage test of capacity or the “causative nexus” which requires that assessors must make clear that it is the identified “diagnostic” element which is leading to the inability to meet the “functional” requirements of the capacity test. The normative element of capacity assessments is acknowledged by a number of assessors who suggest that judging a person’s ability to “weigh” information, in particular, is a subjective and value-based exercise, which is given pseudo objectivity by the language of the Mental Capacity Act (MCA). A number of elements of good practice were also identified.

Research limitations/implications

In this exploratory study, participant numbers were small (n=21), and the authors relied on self-report rather than actual observations of practice or audit of completed assessments.

Practical implications

The findings are of relevance to all of those working in health and social care who undertake assessments of mental capacity, and will be helpful to all of those tasked with designing and delivering training in relation to the MCA 2005. They also have relevance to policy makers in the UK who are involved with reforms to DOLS regulations, and to those in other countries which have legislation similar to the MCA.

Originality/value

Much existing literature exhorts further training around the MCA. The authors suggest that an equally important task is for practitioners to understand and be explicit about the normative elements of the process, and the place of ethics and values alongside the more cognitive and procedural aspects of capacity assessments.
Process and output control in marketing channels: toward understanding their heterogeneous effects
Authors: Brown James R. , Crosno Jody L.
Published: March 2019

Purpose

Extant research has demonstrated that marketing channel control can produce both positive and negative effects. This paper aims to use meta-analysis to understand potential sources of those heterogeneous effects. This research also identifies areas in need of future research to help deepen the understanding of marketing channel control.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses meta-analysis to quantitatively review some of the methodological factors that might explain conflicting results uncovered in previous empirical studies.

Findings

The results generally show a positive relationship between process and output control and their studied correlates. They also show that the effects of process and output control vary by the methodological factors used to study them. In particular, the effects of process and output control appears to be stronger in industrial (vs consumer) markets, service (vs goods) industries and in studies conducted in non-Western (vs Western) cultures; and output monitoring measures appear to be more effective than output control measures, yet process monitoring appears to be less effective than process control in marketing channels.

Originality/value

This original meta-analysis review of the literature on organizational control in marketing channels shows that the effects of process and output control vary according to the research context investigated as well as the specific measure of control used. The paper presents an agenda to guide future research on this topic to more fully develop knowledge of organizational control in marketing channels.
Blockchain for business
Authors: George Rohith P. , Peterson Brad L. , Yaros Oliver , Beam David L. , Dibbell Julian M. , Moore Riley C.
Published: March 2019

Purpose

To introduce blockchain in simple terms for business lawyers to be able to spot the right issues and ask the right questions.

Design/methodology/approach

This article provides an overview of blockchain, identifies two example use cases, and highlights some of the most pressing legal issues, including issues to address in on-chain programming, off-chain agreements and other issues when determining whether to implement a blockchain solution.

Findings

This article concludes that there has been a significant growth in investment and interest in blockchain. Numerous companies across different sectors have developed blockchain proof-of-concepts, with some heading towards production deployments. At this point, commercial blockchain is largely in the pilot or proof-of-concept stage across a wide range of use cases, with payments and supply chain being two of the most promising use cases. This article also identifies possible legal issues associated with blockchain.

Practical implications

Despite the growing interest in blockchain, it is still a novel topic to many business lawyers. It is very important that lawyers are able to identify the right issues and ask the right questions.

Originality/value

Practical guidance from experienced lawyers in the Technology Transactions and Financial Services Regulatory & Enforcement practices.
US SEC report calls for better internal accounting controls for cyber-related threats
Authors: Martin David , Engvall David , Burke Kerry , Hodgkins Gerald , Franker Matthew , Hooper Reid
Published: March 2019

Purpose

To summarize and explain the US Securities and Exchange Commission’s (Commission) recent report of investigation cautioning public companies to consider cyber-related threats when designing and implementing internal accounting controls.

Design/methodology/approach

Explains that the Commission’s report arose out of a Commission enforcement investigation into the internal accounting controls of nine unidentified public companies that were victims of email scams, explains that the Commission issued the report to emphasize that cybersecurity remains a high priority for the Commission and the report should serve as a reminder that all public companies need to consider cyber-related threats when devising and maintaining internal accounting controls and provides practical considerations for public companies to consider in light of the Commission’s report.

Findings

Public companies should assume that the Commission is actively monitoring all areas related to cybersecurity, including corporate disclosures of cyber-related incidents and also whether companies have established policies, procedures, and internal controls in place to ensure cyber-related incidents are prevented. Given that assumption, public companies should take prompt steps to assess and, if appropriate, improve internal accounting controls, disclosure controls, and cyber-related policies and procedures to address the risk of cyber-related incidents.

Originality/value

Practical guidance from experienced securities lawyers.
High expression of SPAG5 sustains the malignant growth and invasion of breast cancer cells through the activation of Wnt/β‐catenin signalling
Authors: Jiang Jue , Wang Juan , He Xin , Ma Wenqi , Sun Lei , Zhou Qi , Li Miao , Yu Shanshan
Published: March 2019

Sperm‐associated antigen 5 (SPAG5) has currently emerged as a novel oncogene in various cancers. High expression of SPAG5 has been frequently detected in breast cancer. However, the biological function and regulatory mechanism of SPAG5 in breast cancer remain unclear. In this study, we aimed to investigate the potential biological function of SPAG5 in breast cancer cells. Herein, we found that both the mRNA and protein expression of SPAG5 were significantly up‐regulated in breast cancer cell lines. Functional experiments showed that silencing of SPAG5 inhibited the proliferation and invasion of breast cancer cells, while the overexpression of SPAG5 promoted the proliferation and invasion of breast cancer cells. Mechanistic investigation demonstrated that SPAG5 promoted the expression of Wnt3 and β‐catenin, and increased the activation of β‐catenin/TCF4 transcriptional activity. Notably, the inhibition of Wnt3 partially reversed the promotion effect of SPAG5 on breast cancer cell proliferation and invasion and β‐catenin/TCF4 signalling. In addition, the inhibition of β‐catenin also significantly abrogated SPAG5‐mediated oncogenic effects in breast cancer. Taken together, these findings demonstrate that SPAG5 promotes the proliferation and invasion of breast cancer cells by activating Wnt/β‐catenin signalling via up‐regulating Wnt3 expression.
Towards measuring professionalism in accounting
Authors: Adler Ralph , Liyanarachchi Gregory
Published: March 2019

This paper develops an instrument that measures accounting professionalism. The instrument's development was informed by literature on professionalism, similar to the genesis of instruments developed in other fields (i.e., sociology, medicine and pharmacy), and interviews with practising accountants and accounting academics. An exploratory factor analysis of 516 survey responses received from members of Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand (CAANZ) produced four sub‐dimensions of accounting professionalism: ethics and independence, altruism, respect for others, and excellence. This four‐factor model and a unidimensional model were tested using confirmatory factor analysis. The four‐factor model proved superior to the unidimensional one and produced a final instrument with strong psychometric properties.
Effects of large‐scale heathland management on thermal regimes and predation on adders Vipera berus
Authors: Worthington‐Hill J. O. , Gill J. A.
Published: March 2019

Management prescriptions for species of conservation concern often focus on creating appropriate habitat conditions, but the spatial scales over which these actions are applied can potentially impact their success. In north‐western Europe, preventing further loss of lowland heathland through successional changes often involves the mechanical removal of vegetation, creating large blocks of open homogenous habitat. We investigate the influence of this broad‐scale habitat management on a heathland specialist, the adder Vipera berus. By deploying temperature loggers and Plasticine adder models in heathland areas with and without complex vegetation cover, we show that (1) cleared areas lack both the temperature variation adders need to thermoregulate effectively and suitable refuges from dangerously high summer temperatures, and (2) attacks by dogs and trampling by grazing livestock are significantly more frequent in cleared areas and closer to footpaths. Habitat management strategies that retain some structural complexity of vegetation within cleared areas, and diverting footpaths away from cleared areas and/or strategic placement of barrier hedging around these areas could potentially reduce the exposure of adders to high predation risk and thermal extremes.
Drinking guidelines and the need for evidence beyond the epidemiological
Authors: Holmes John , Angus Colin , Meier Petra S. , Buykx Penny , Brennan Alan
Published: March 2019

Commentary to: How should we set consumption thresholds for low risk drinking guidelines? Achieving objectivity and transparency using evidence, expert judgement and pragmatism.
Genetic diversity and maternal origin of Northeast African and South American donkey populations
Authors: Xia X. , Yu J. , Zhao X. , Yao Y. , Zeng L. , Ahmed Z. , Shen S. , Dang R. , Lei C.
Published: March 2019

To investigate the mtDNA variation and origin of maternal lineages in South American donkeys and to reassess the domestication of donkeys in northeast Africa, we analyzed sequences (489 bp of the D‐loop) from 323 domestic donkeys sampled from Peru, Brazil, Ethiopia and Egypt. Altogether, the 323 sequences displayed 53 different haplotypes (45 in Ethiopia, 14 in Egypt, eight in Peru and six in Brazil). Among the four populations, Egyptian donkeys possessed the highest haplotype diversity (0.910 ± 0.032), followed by Brazilian donkeys (0.879 ± 0.060). The Clade I haplotypes dominated in Peruvian donkeys (65%), whereas Clade II haplotypes dominated in Brazilian donkeys (67%). Estimates of FST values showed a high genetic differentiation between Peruvian and Brazilian donkey populations (FST = 0.4066), which could be explained by the complex introduction history of South American donkeys. Phylogeographic analysis indicates that northeast Africa could be the most probable domestication center for Clade I donkeys. Analysis of molecular variance confirmed a weak genetic structure in domestic donkey populations among four continents (Europe, Asia, Africa and South America).
CMAH genotyping survey for blood types A, B and C (AB) in purpose‐bred cats
Authors: Kehl A. , Mueller E. , Giger U.
Published: March 2019

In domestic cats, the AB blood group system consists of the three types A, B and C (also called AB). Mismatches can cause acute hemolytic transfusion reactions and hemolysis of the newborn (neonatal isoerythrolysis, NI). As blood types B and C are inherited recessively to A, breeders need to know the genotype to predict blood types in offspring and avoid NI. Several CMAH variants have been described as being associated with the b and ac alleles, and different genotyping schemes exist. Here, we genotyped 2145 cats with the original SNV panel, including SNVs c.142G>A and ∆‐53, and our new scheme, with SNVs c.179G>T, c.268T>A and c.1322delT, to differentiate types A and B and added the SNV for the common ac (c.364C>T). Based upon the new scheme, all samples were assigned the correct genotype. No discordances appeared for the A allele, and new breed‐specific SNVs (c.179G>T, c.1322delT) for the b allele were discovered. Furthermore, the genotypes A/ac (type A), ac/ac (C) and ac/b (C) could be detected. We found the variant c.179G>T in additional breeds: Ragdoll, Siberian, Scottish Fold, Chartreux, Neva Masquerade, British Shorthair and Highlander. Also, the variant c.364C>T was detected in additional breeds: Bengal, British Shorthair, Maine Coon, and Scottish Fold. We conclude that our new SNV panel is superior in genotyping cats than the original SNV panel and assures correct assignments of types A, B and C to assist veterinary clinicians and breeders to recognize, confirm and avoid blood incompatibilities such as acute hemolytic transfusion reactions and NI.
Dysplastic/Clark naevus in the era of molecular pathology
Authors: Mesbah Ardakani Nima
Published: March 2019

Dysplastic naevus has been a controversial entity since its first description by Clark in 1978. Despite a recent paradigm shift from the initially proposed notion that dysplastic naevus is a precursor to melanoma, its management has been increasingly more aggressive in the last decade. The latter is due to an unresolved uncertainty regarding its biological nature which necessitates further clarification. Recent molecular genetics, epigenetic and transcriptomic discoveries have revealed that a subset of dysplastic naevi exhibits a genomic profile which is intermediate between that of benign naevus and melanoma. This group of lesions often shows somatic mutations in non‐V600E BRAF, NRAS and TERT and hemizygous deletion of CDKN2A gene as well as upregulation of genes involved in proliferation, cell adhesion and migration, and epidermal and follicular keratinocyte‐related genes. These new genomic insights suggest that a proportion of dysplastic naevi have a greater propensity to evolve to melanoma; however, the clinical and histopathological features of this proposed intermediate category are still to be elucidated by further research.
Hospital volume versus outcome following oesophagectomy for cancer in Australia and New Zealand
Authors: Meng Rosie , Bright Tim , Woodman Richard J. , Watson David I.
Published: March 2019

Background

Volume–outcome relationships for mortality following oesophagectomy have been demonstrated in Europe and the USA, but not in Australia or New Zealand. We determined whether higher volume hospitals achieve better outcomes following oesophagectomy in Australia and New Zealand.

Methods

Administrative data for hospitals contributing data to the Health Roundtable were analysed. Hospitals performing oesophagectomy for cancer from July 2008 to June 2015 were grouped according to mean annual caseload: low (1–5), medium (6–11) and high (12+) volume. Univariate and multivariable analyses determined the impact of volume on 30‐day and in‐hospital mortalities, length of hospital stay and mechanical ventilation following surgery.

Results

A total of 2252 patients underwent oesophagectomy in 65 hospitals. Sixty‐eight percent (n = 44) were low‐, 26% (n = 17) were medium‐ and 6% (n = 4) were high‐volume hospitals. Seven hundred and sixty‐two (34%) procedures were performed in low‐, 1042 (46%) in medium‐ and 448 (20%) in high‐volume hospitals. Overall in‐hospital mortality was 3.1% and 30‐day mortality was 2.1%. In‐hospital mortality was lowest in high‐volume hospitals; 1.6% versus 2.6% and 4.1% for low‐ and medium‐volume hospitals (P = 0.02). Surgery in high‐volume hospitals was shorter (32 min, P = 0.001), and patients were less likely to require post‐operative ventilation (16.7% versus 25.3% and 28.0%, P < 0.001), although patients requiring ventilation in high‐volume hospitals were ventilated for longer.

Conclusions

A volume–outcome relationship was demonstrated, with overall better performance in higher volume hospitals. Colocation of oesophagectomies to hospitals that can demonstrate appropriate caseload should be considered.
The cost effectiveness of Helicobacter pylori population screening—economic evaluation alongside a randomised controlled trial with 13‐year follow‐up
Authors: Høgh Maria Bomme , Kronborg Christian , Hansen Jane Møller , Schaffalitzky de Muckadell Ove B.
Published: March 2019

Background

Helicobacter pylori eradication improves dyspeptic symptoms in 8%‐10%, prevents peptic ulcer and may reduce the risk of gastric cancer. Availability of a high quality diagnostic test and an effective treatment makes population screening and eradication of Helicobacter pylori an attractive option.

Aim

To evaluate the cost effectiveness of Helicobacter pylori population screening and eradication.

Methods

Cost effectiveness analysis and cost utility analysis alongside randomised controlled trial with 13 years follow‐up. The evaluation has a societal perspective.

A random general population sample of 20 011 individuals aged 40‐65 were randomised and invited in 1998‐1999; 12 530 were enrolled and, of these, 8658 have been successfully followed up at 1, 5, and 13 years after intervention. Questionnaires included the quality of life instrument SF‐36. From SF‐36 responses an SF‐6D score was derived and used for calculation of quality‐adjusted life years. Register data on costs, use of health care resources and medication were obtained for all randomised individuals. The intervention was an invitation to Helicobacter pylori screening by in‐office blood test; positive tests were validated by 13C‐urea breath test. Those who tested positive were offered eradication therapy. Main outcome measures were Incremental cost per quality‐adjusted life year and life‐years gained.

Results

Helicobacter pylori population screening and eradication with 13 years follow‐up was not effective in regards to quality of life and the cost per screened person was higher than not screening (mean difference 11 269 DKK [95% CI: 3175‐19 362]). The probability of being cost‐effective was 80% at a threshold of 400 000 DKK (approximately 53,800 Euros) of willingness‐to‐pay per life‐year gained.

Conclusions

Helicobacter pylori population screening and eradication with 13 years follow‐up was not effective in regards to quality of life and the cost of screening was higher than not screening.
Effects of follicle‐stimulating hormone followed by gonadotropin‐releasing hormone on embryo production by ovum pick‐up and in vitro fertilization in the river buffalo (Bubalus bubalis)
Authors: Sakaguchi Kenichiro , Maylem Excel Rio S. , Tilwani Ramesh C. , Yanagawa Yojiro , Katagiri Seiji , Atabay Edwin C. , Atabay Eufrocina P. , Nagano Masashi
Published: March 2019

In this study, we examined the effects of superstimulation using follicle‐stimulating hormone (FSH) followed by gonadotropin‐releasing hormone (GnRH) on buffalo embryo production by ultrasound‐guided ovum pick‐up (OPU) and in vitro fertilization (IVF). Nine Murrah buffaloes were subjected to OPU‐IVF without superstimulation (control). The morphologies of the oocytes collected were evaluated, and oocytes were then submitted to in vitro maturation (IVM). Two days after OPU, same nine buffaloes were treated with twice‐daily injections of FSH for 3 days for superstimulation followed by a GnRH injection. Oocytes were collected by OPU 23–24 hr after the GnRH injection and submitted to IVM (the superstimulated group). The total number of follicles, number of follicles with a diameter > 8 mm, and number of oocytes surrounded by multi‐layered cumulus cells were higher in the superstimulated group than in the control group (p ≤ 0.05). After IVF, the percentages of cleavage and development to blastocysts were higher in the superstimulated group than in the control group (p < 0.05). In conclusion, superstimulation improved the quality of oocytes and the embryo productivity of OPU‐IVF in river buffaloes.
Too exhausted to go to bed: Implicit theories about willpower and stress predict bedtime procrastination
Authors: Bernecker Katharina , Job Veronika
Published: March 2019

While most people are aware of the importance of sleep for their health, well‐being, and performance, bedtime procrastination is a pervasive phenomenon that can be conceptualized as a case of self‐control failure (Kroese et al., Frontiers in Psychology, 5, 2014, 1). Two daily diary studies (N1 = 185, N2 = 137) investigated beliefs about willpower and stress as interactive predictors of bedtime procrastination. Beliefs about willpower capture whether people think of their willpower as limited resource that gets easily depleted (limited theory) or as something that remains regardless of previous acts of self‐control (non‐limited theory). Results show that after a stressful day, people with a limited versus non‐limited theory procrastinate more on going to bed, while there is no difference in bedtime procrastination on less stressful days. Thus, ironically, limited theorists who should be more concerned with recovering their resources after a stressful day sleep less the following night.
Quantifying faulting and base level controls on syn‐rift sedimentation using stratigraphic architectures of coeval, adjacent Early‐Middle Pleistocene fan deltas in Lake Corinth, Greece
Authors: Barrett Bonita J. , Collier Richard E. LL. , Hodgson David M. , Gawthorpe Robert L. , Dorrell Robert M. , Cullen Timothy M.
Published: March 2019

Quantification of allogenic controls in rift basin‐fills requires analysis of multiple depositional systems because of marked along‐strike changes in depositional architecture. Here, we compare two coeval Early‐Middle Pleistocene syn‐rift fan deltas that sit 6 km apart in the hangingwall of the Pirgaki‐Mamoussia Fault, along the southern margin of the Gulf of Corinth, Greece. The Selinous fan delta is located near the fault tip and the Kerinitis fan delta towards the fault centre. Selinous and Kerinitis have comparable overall aggradational stacking patterns. Selinous comprises 15 cyclic stratal units (ca. 25 m thick), whereas at Kerinitis 11 (ca. 60 m thick) are present. Eight facies associations are identified. Fluvial and shallow water facies dominate the major stratal units in the topset region, with shelfal fine‐grained facies constituting ca. 2 m thick intervals between major topset units and thick conglomeratic foresets building down‐dip. It is possible to quantify delta build times (Selinous: 615 kyr; Kerinitis: >450 kyr) and average subsidence and equivalent sedimentation rates (Selinous: 0.65 m/kyr; Kerinitis: >1.77 m/kyr). The presence of sequence boundaries at Selinous, but their absence at Kerinitis, enables sensitivity analysis of the most uncertain variables using a numerical model, ‘Syn‐Strat’, supported by an independent unit thickness extrapolation method. Our study has three broad outcomes: (a) the first estimate of lake level change amplitude in Lake Corinth for the Early‐Middle Pleistocene (10–15 m), which can aid regional palaeoclimate studies and inform broader climate‐system models; (b) demonstration of two complementary methods to quantify faulting and base level signals in the stratigraphic record—forward modelling with Syn‐Strat and a unit thickness extrapolation—which can be applied to other rift basin‐fills; and (c) a quantitative approach to the analysis of stacking patterns and key surfaces that could be applied to stratigraphic pinch‐out assessment and cross‐hole correlations in reservoir analysis.
Critical role of CCL4 in eosinophil recruitment into the airway
Authors: Kobayashi Yoshiki , Konno Yasunori , Kanda Akira , Yamada Yoshiyuki , Yasuba Hirotaka , Sakata Yoshiko , Fukuchi Mineyo , Tomoda Koichi , Iwai Hiroshi , Ueki Shigeharu
Published: March 2019

Background

Excessive eosinophil airway infiltration is a clinically critical condition in some cases. Eosinophilic pneumonia (EP) is a pulmonary condition involving eosinophil infiltration of the lungs. Although several chemokines, including eotaxin‐1 (CCL11), RANTES (CCL5) and macrophage inflammatory protein 1β (MIP‐1β or CCL4), have been detected in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) from patients with EP, the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying EP, including potential relationships between eosinophils and CCL4, have not been fully elucidated.

Objective

To examine the involvement of CCL4 in eosinophilic airway inflammation.

Methods

We analysed supernatants of activated eosinophils and BALF from 16 patients with eosinophilic pneumonia (EP). Further, we examined the effects of CCL4 on eosinophil functions in vitro and those of anti‐CCL4 neutralizing antibody in an in vivo model.

Results

We found that purified human eosinophils stimulated with IL‐5 predominantly secreted CCL4 and that patients with EP had elevated CCL11 and CCL4 levels in BALF compared with samples from individuals without EP. Because CCL4 levels were more strongly correlated with eosinophil count and expression of eosinophil granule proteins than CCL11, in vitro experiments using purified eosinophils concentrated on the former chemokine. Interestingly, CCL4 acted as a chemoattractant for eosinophils. In a mouse model, administration of a CCL4‐neutralizing antibody attenuated eosinophilic airway infiltration and airway hyperresponsiveness.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance

Overall, these findings highlight an important role of CCL4 in the mechanisms underlying eosinophil recruitment into the airway and may provide a novel insight into this potential therapeutic target.
A novel semiautomatic segmentation protocol to evaluate guided bone regeneration outcomes: A pilot randomized, controlled clinical trial
Authors: Li Yuan , Qiao Shi‐Chong , Gu Ying‐Xin , Zhang Xiao‐Meng , Shi Jun‐Yu , Lai Hong‐Chang
Published: March 2019

Objectives

The aims of this study were to (a) present a novel morphological contour interpolation (MCI) algorithm based method to evaluate grafted bone alterations following guided bone regeneration (GBR), (b) compare clinical and radiological outcomes of GBR with two different collagen membranes.

Materials and methods

The data were retrieved from an ongoing randomized controlled trial. Patients were randomly allocated into two groups: (a) control group (CG): Bio‐Gide (b) test group (TG): bovine dermis‐derived collagen membrane. Cone beam computed tomography examinations were performed 1 week (T0) and 6 months after surgery (T1). PES/WES at T1, grafted bone volume and density changes from T0 to T1 were recorded.

Results

Thirty‐six patients (16/20 in test/control group, respectively) were enrolled in the present study. Excellent inter‐observer reliability (ICC ≥ 0.97) was revealed for repeated measurements using this method. Significant volumetric reduction of grafted bone were found in both groups (test group: from 0.60 to 0.39 cm3, p < 0.01; control group: from 0.54 to 0.31 cm3, p < 0.01). Mean bone density (gray‐scale values) significantly increased from 305.12 to 456.69 in CG (p < 0.01). In TG, it slightly increased from 304.75 to 393.27 (p = 0.25). The mean PES/WES values were 13.84 (6.62/7.22) and 13.90 (6.70/7.20) for TG and CG, respectively. As for inter‐group comparison, no significant differences of grafted bone volume change, density change and PES/WES were found between two groups.

Conclusion

Within the limitations of this study, the novel MCI‐based method is a reproducible tool to segment and visualize changes of grafted bone in 3D. Furthermore, both collagen membranes could be used as a barrier membrane for GBR in humans.
INTERNAL COCAINE TRAFFICKING AND ARMED VIOLENCE IN COLOMBIA
Authors: Millán‐Quijano Jaime
Published: March 2019

This paper exploits time variations in international cocaine prices and potential trafficking routes within Colombia to estimate the effect of the illegal cocaine trade on changes in municipality homicide rates. I construct the potential internal cocaine‐trafficking network and exploit the fact that different regions in Colombia have comparative advantages in serving different international markets. My results suggest that when cocaine prices increase in either the United States or Europe, homicide rates increase in municipalities strategically placed to serve each international market. (JEL D74, K42, F19)
Extreme ecological stoichiometry of a bark beetle–fungus mutualism
Authors: Six Diana L. , Elser James J.
Published: March 2019

1. Ecological stoichiometry theory was applied to investigate how a consumer contends with an extreme elemental mismatch between its food and its body via symbiotic facilitation.

2. The beetle Dendroctonus brevicomis LeConte develops in bark, a substrate extremely low in nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P). Its survival there depends on interactions with mutualist and antagonist fungi.

3. This study found that mutualists transfer N and P from sapwood and phloem into bark, where beetles feed, whereas the antagonist moves these elements only to phloem, resulting in starvation of the insect. However, even with mutualists, N and P concentrations remained low in bark, resulting in low N and extremely low P concentrations in the beetle.

4. The N:P ratios found in D. brevicomis larvae were the highest thus far reported for beetles and among the highest for insects and invertebrates. This suggests that the beetle has evolved additional, nutrient‐sparing adaptations.
Farriery for the foal: A review part 1: Basic trimming
Authors: O'Grady S. E.
Published: March 2019

The extensive nature of this topic warrants this review paper to be divided into two parts: ‘Routine basic trimming in foals’ and ‘Therapeutic farriery in foals’. Hoof care in the first few months of life is serious business and should never be taken lightly. Good farriery is vital for the development of the hoof capsule and the conformation of the limb. Management of the feet and limbs during the juvenile period will often dictate the success of the foal as a sales yearling or mature sound athlete. Overall hoof care of a foal is often a joint venture between the veterinarian and the farrier. Part 1 of this paper will outline the concept of a footcare programme, examination of the foal's feet and limbs along with what constitutes good basic farriery to properly apply the trim. It will also emphasise the importance of maintaining a good veterinarian‐farrier relationship ‐ the farrier being responsible for basic trimming with veterinary oversight when necessary, and if orthopaedic disorders develop, the farrier will have significant input with therapeutic farriery.
Global assessment of marine biodiversity potentially threatened by offshore hydrocarbon activities
Authors: Venegas‐Li Rubén , Levin Noam , Morales‐Barquero Lucía , Kaschner Kristin , Garilao Cristina , Kark Salit
Published: March 2019

Increasing global energy demands have led to the ongoing intensification of hydrocarbon extraction from marine areas. Hydrocarbon extractive activities pose threats to native marine biodiversity, such as noise, light, and chemical pollution, physical changes to the sea floor, invasive species, and greenhouse gas emissions. Here, we assessed at a global scale the spatial overlap between offshore hydrocarbon activities and marine biodiversity (>25,000 species, nine major ecosystems, and marine protected areas), and quantify the changes over time. We discovered that two‐thirds of global offshore hydrocarbon activities occur in areas within the top 10% for species richness, range rarity, and proportional range rarity values globally. Thus, while hydrocarbon activities are undertaken in less than one percent of the ocean's area, they overlap with approximately 85% of all assessed species. Of conservation concern, 4% of species with the largest proportion of their range overlapping hydrocarbon activities are range restricted, potentially increasing their vulnerability to localized threats such as oil spills. While hydrocarbon activities have extended to greater depths since the mid‐1990s, we found that the largest overlap is with coastal ecosystems, particularly estuaries, saltmarshes and mangroves. Furthermore, in most countries where offshore hydrocarbon exploration licensing blocks have been delineated, they do not overlap with marine protected areas (MPAs). Although this is positive in principle, many countries have far more licensing block areas than protected areas, and in some instances, MPA coverage is minimal. These findings suggest the need for marine spatial prioritization to help limit future spatial overlap between marine conservation priorities and hydrocarbon activities. Such prioritization can be informed by the spatial and quantitative baseline information provided here. In increasingly shared seascapes, prioritizing management actions that set both conservation and development targets could help minimize further declines of biodiversity and environmental changes at a global scale.