bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hindered and constrained: limited potential for thermal adaptation in post‐metamorphic and adult Rana temporaria along elevational gradients
Authors: Enriquez‐Urzelai Urtzi , Palacio Antonio S. , Merino Natalia M. , Sacco Martina , Nicieza Alfredo G.
Published: September 2018

Adaptation to warming climates could counteract the effects of global warming. Thus, understanding how species cope with contrasting climates may inform us about their potential for thermal adaptation and which processes may hamper that ability (e.g. evolutionary trade‐offs, phenology or behavioural thermoregulation). In addition to temperature, time constraints may also exert important selective pressures. Here, we compare the thermal sensitivity of locomotion of metamorphic and adult European common frogs (Rana temporaria) originating from populations along an elevational gradient. We employed the template mode of variation (TMV) analysis to decompose the thermal sensitivity of locomotion and explore the existence of trade‐offs (‘hotter is better’ and ‘specialist–generalist’) and the degree of local adaptation. To that end, we studied the relationship between TMV parameters and local environmental conditions. Further, we compared preferred temperatures to assess whether behavioural thermoregulation could dampen the effects of thermal variation, reducing the intensity of selection and limiting thermal adaptation (i.e. ‘Bogert effect’). We suggest that behavioural thermoregulation has promoted the conservatism of thermal sensitivity in R. temporaria. Yet, we observed a trend towards narrower thermal niches shifted towards warmer temperature in populations with severe temporal constraints, conforming to the ‘generalist‐specialist’ trade‐off. Apparently, this enables time‐constrained populations – especially in the case of metamorphs – to effectively exploit resources during the warmest periods. The limited potential of R. temporaria for thermal adaptation suggests that forecasts of global warming should incorporate thermoregulation and explore its potential to buffer species from rising temperatures.
Board Independence as a Panacea to Tunneling? An Empirical Study of Related‐Party Transactions in Hong Kong and Singapore
Authors: Chen Christopher , Wan Wai Yee , Zhang Wei
Published: September 2018

This article examines the effect of imposing higher board independence requirements on private benefit extraction by corporate management or controlling shareholders in Hong Kong and Singapore. This article shows that higher board independence negatively correlates with fewer related‐party transactions (RPT), though in a nonlinear relationship with the marginal effect of higher board independence diminished. However, we find no clear causal effect of Hong Kong's imposition of a minimum board independence threshold in 2012 on reducing tunneling. Our data also show that higher concentration of ownership might not be associated with more tunneling by RPTs. Overall, this research lends support to the literature on the role of better corporate governance in addressing agency costs, although the exact effect of a particular change of corporate governance rules on tunneling is unclear, and there could be less utility in imposing even higher board independence requirements beyond a certain optimal level in the future.
Competitive strategy for open and user innovation
Authors: Llanes Gastón
Published: September 2018

I study the incentives to open technologies in imperfectly competitive markets with user innovation. Firms may choose to open part of their knowledge or private information so that it becomes freely accessible to users. Openness decisions are governed by a trade‐off between collaboration and appropriability: by becoming more open, a firm encourages user innovation but hampers its ability to capture value. I find that large firms are less open and invest more in product development than small firms, and that firms react to greater openness from rivals by becoming more open. I also show that compatibility and spillovers have a negative effect on openness, and that firms become more open as the number of competitors increases.
Trichosporon jirovecii infection of red swamp crayfish (Procambarus clarkii)
Authors: Abdallah Ebtsam Sayed Hassan , Mahmoud Mahmoud Mostafa , Abdel‐Rahim Ismail Ramadan
Published: September 2018

One hundred and twenty‐nine isolates of Trichosporon jirovecii were isolated from the melanized exoskeleton as well as eyestalks, gills, muscle and haemolymph of red swamp crayfish (Procambarus clarkii) collected from the River Nile, during summer 2015. Isolates were similar morphologically, biochemically and genetically. Also, random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) analysis exhibited no polymorphism among the tested isolates. Virulence factors such as chitinase, protease, lipase activities and biofilm formation were examined. Challenge test, using a representative isolate (Tj_ASU8), proved its pathogenicity against crayfish. Magnesium oxide nanoparticles had a good antifungal activity with a minimum fungicidal concentration of 8 mg/ml. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report for isolation of T. jirovecii from red swamp crayfish, showing melanization, from the River Nile. We assume that infected crayfish may act as a vector for this fungus and can disseminate infection to all susceptible hosts in the vicinity.
Molecular detection and genotype identification of Toxoplasma gondii in domestic and industrial eggs
Authors: Khademi Seyedeh Zahra , Ghaffarifar Fatemeh , Dalimi Abdolhossein , Davoodian Parivash , Abdoli Amir
Published: September 2018

Birds are important intermediated hosts of Toxoplasma gondii. Consumption of chicken meat and its infected products is one of the main sources of human infection with T. gondii. However, little information is available about T. gondii infection in egg. In this study, the contamination of industrial and local eggs with Toxoplasma was investigated by PCR method targeting the RE gene in two tropical cities of Iran. Genotypes of T. gondii were determined by PCR‐RFLP method targeting the SAG3 gene. T. gondii DNA was detected in 11% (22/200) of the eggs. Genotyping of 14 T. gondii isolates revealed that all of the isolates were belonged to genotype III of T. gondii. Sequencing of the isolates by the SAG3 gene showed 95%–100% similarity with the T. gondii isolates in GenBank.

Practical applications

The findings of this study suggested that consumption of raw or undercooked eggs might play a role in human infection with Toxoplasma. Hence, consumption of adequately cooked eggs should be considered for prevention of human toxoplasmosis.
The circadian clock contributes to diurnal patterns of plant indirect defense in nature
Authors: Joo Youngsung , Goldberg Jay K. , Chrétien Lucille T. S. , Kim Sang‐Gyu , Baldwin Ian T. , Schuman Meredith C.
Published: September 2018

The plant circadian clock regulates the rhythms of plant metabolism. Many herbivore‐induced plant volatiles (HIPVs) fluctuate, diurnally, but the role of the circadian clock in the emission of HIPVs and their ecological consequences remains largely unknown. Here, we show that the timing of herbivore attack can alter the outcome of tri‐trophic interactions, and this is mediated by the circadian clock, under both field and glasshouse conditions. Although most HIPV emissions did not have a circadian rhythm, the circadian clock modulated HIPV emissions in a time‐dependent manner. HIPVs mediate tri‐trophic interactions, and the circadian clock may affect these interactions by modulating HIPV emission in nature.
Associations Between Romantic Relationship Factors and Body Mass Index Among Weight Loss Surgery Patients
Authors: Ferriby Megan , Pratt Keeley , Noria Sabrena , Needleman Bradley
Published: September 2018

The current study utilized a sample of 183 patients, in romantic relationships, who were either pre‐ or post‐weight loss surgery (WLS), to assess (a) associations between romantic relationship factors and pre‐ and post‐surgery body mass index (BMI), (b) the positive and negative influences of obesity in romantic relationships, and (c) the influence of romantic relationship factors on BMI and the reciprocal. Correlations, confirmatory factor analysis, and multiple linear regression were conducted. Patients endorsed greater negative influence of obesity in their romantic relationships compared to positive influences, and their romantic relationship quality was predicted by several variables, including BMI, in pre‐ and post‐surgery patient groups.
Dementia‐specific drug treatment in home care settings: A German multicentre study
Authors: Schütz Leonhard H. , Boronat‐Garrido Xavier , Moser Fabian A. , Suhr Ralf , Lahmann Nils
Published: September 2018

Aims and objectives

The aim of this study was to identify and analyse factors influencing the use of drugs for dementia treatment in home care settings.

Background

While the number of care‐dependent people with dementia is growing, it is not clear whether their medication follows the state of the art, especially in home care settings where over two‐thirds of them are cared for in Germany. Although dementia is not curable, it is possible to reduce cognitive, behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia with the appropriate use of medication. However, there is a lack of information concerning the drug treatment in home care settings.

Methods

The study was conducted as a multicentre cross‐sectional survey, including 923 participants from 102 home care institutions throughout Germany. Medical diagnosis, medication, consultations with a specialist within the previous 12 weeks of the initial assessment and additional general information were assessed following a standardised study protocol. Data were analysed using univariate and multivariate statistical methods. The manuscript was developed utilising the STROBE checklist for cross‐sectional studies.

Results

In home care, one in seven clients (14.8%) is diagnosed with some form of dementia. 52.6% (n = 72) of them were treated with dementia medication: AchEIs 16.1% (n = 22), memantine 9.5% (n = 13), antidepressants 23.4% (n = 32), antipsychotic medication 9.5% (n = 13), tranquilisers 16.8% (n = 23) and anticonvulsant drugs 6.6% (n = 9). Drug treatment for dementia was significantly associated with the consultation of a neurologist/psychiatrist in the previous 12 weeks.

Conclusions

It has been demonstrated that the use of drugs as a component of home care treatment for dementia depends on many factors and therefore varies.

Relevance to clinical practice

It can be assumed that people living with dementia in home care settings are not sufficiently supplied with medication. Their medical care can be improved by establishing interdisciplinary care involving a neurologist/psychiatrist.
Harm‐reduction approaches for self‐cutting in inpatient mental health settings: Development and preliminary validation of the Attitudes to Self‐cutting Management (ASc‐Me) Scale
Authors: Hosie Leah , Dickens Geoffrey L.
Published: September 2018

Accessible summary

What is known on the subject?

Nurses in mental health inpatient settings use a range of methods to try and help service users who self‐harm

Harm‐reduction approaches are intended to help service users reduce the impact of their self‐harm rather than simply to prevent them self‐harming

Harm‐reduction techniques might be helpful for people who cut themselves because there are some clear ways harm can be minimized such as providing advice about cutting

No one has previously tried to measure whether harm‐reduction techniques are more or less acceptable to mental health practitioners and service users than traditional methods.

What the paper adds to existing knowledge?

The paper describes the development of the Attitudes to Self‐cutting Management scale. It met the criteria required of a good measurement tool.

Each method of managing self‐cutting has a unique acceptability profile

Harm‐reduction methods like advising on wound care and providing a first aid kit are endorsed by nurses and former service users

Nurses providing sterile razors or remaining present during self‐cutting attract more divergent opinions but are preferred to seclusion and restraint.

What are the implications for practice?

Nurses should talk through the approaches to management with service users and agree which techniques are preferred.

Introduction

Harm‐reduction approaches for self‐harm in mental health settings have been under‐researched.

Aim

To develop a measure of the acceptability of management approaches for self‐cutting in mental health inpatient settings.

Methods

Stage one: scale items were generated from relevant literature and staff/service user consultation. Stage two: A cross‐sectional survey and statistical methods from classical test theory informed scale development.

Results/Findings

At stage one, N = 27 staff and service users participated. At stage two, N = 215 people (n = 175 current mental health practitioners and n = 40 people with experience of self‐cutting as a UK mental health inpatient) completed surveys. Principal components analysis revealed a simple factor structure such that each method had a unique acceptability profile. Reliability, construct validity and internal consistency were acceptable. The harm‐reduction approaches “advising on wound care” and “providing a first aid kit” were broadly endorsed; “providing sterile razors” and “maintaining a supportive nursing presence during cutting” were less acceptable but more so than seclusion and restraint.

Discussion

The Attitudes to Self‐cutting Management scale is a reliable and valid measure that could inform service design and development.

Implications for practice

Nurses should discuss different options for management of self‐cutting with service users. Harm‐reduction approaches may be more acceptable than coercive measures.
Pigmentation and growth performance in the blue gourami, Trichogaster trichopterus, fed marigold, Calendula officinalis, powder, a natural carotenoid source
Authors: Jorjani Maryam , Sharif Rohani Mostafa , Mirhashemi Rostami Amin , Ako Harry , Tan Shau Hwai Aileen
Published: September 2018

The present study aimed to determine the effects of different levels of marigold, Calendula officinalis, powder, 0 (control), 0.5% (M0.5), 1.5% (M1.5), and 2.5% (M2.5), on pigmentation and growth performance of the blue gourami after a 70‐day trial. At the end of the experiment, no significant differences (p > 0.05) were found in fish growth performance and body compositions. Color parameters (L*, a*, and b*) were weekly evaluated by examining a point posterior to the fish operculum. The marigold‐fed fish were darker than the control fish at Weeks 9 and 10. Yellowness intensity of the M2.5 was significantly higher than the other treatments at Week 9. Skin and caudal fin total carotenoids, astaxanthin, canthaxanthin, and β‐carotene contents of the treatment M2.5 were significantly different (p < 0.05) compared to the other treatments. Muscle total carotenoids, astaxanthin, and canthaxanthin contents of the marigold‐treated fish were significantly (p < 0.05) higher than the control group. Muscle β‐carotene contents of the treatments M1.5 and M2.5 were significantly (p < 0.05) higher than the control group. This study shows that marigold powder may be considered an efficient natural carotenoid source for pigmentation in blue gourami.
The importance of taxonomy in species distribution models at a global scale: the case of an overlooked alien squirrel facing taxonomic revision
Authors: Mori E. , Menchetti M. , Zozzoli R. , Milanesi P.
Published: September 2018

The Siberian chipmunk is native to north‐eastern Asia, but alien populations of this squirrel, introduced through the pet trade, occur in many European countries. This rodent has been listed as an invasive species of European concern, being a potential vector of ticks spreading Lyme disease. We aimed to assess its current distribution range and to identify areas of potential invasion. Two sets of species distribution models were conducted, one considering the locations of the species (n = 625 occurrences) and the other with only the occurrences of the Korean subspecies (the invasive one in Europe; n = 255 occurrences), which might be a separate species from the Siberian one. We included 19 uncorrelated predictors (two topographic, nine land cover, five bioclimatic and three anthropogenic variables), which may represent the habitat characteristics of the target species. Most of the northern hemisphere supports the establishment of the Siberian chipmunk, particularly for the invasive Korean subspecies (especially in Europe, where it is already established), mostly in urban areas. Anthropogenic food supply was found to be an important factor promoting the growth of alien populations of chipmunks, whereas the presence of the native red squirrel at the time of introduction may limit it.
Molecular identification and antifungal susceptibility of clinical fungal isolates from onychomycosis (uncommon and emerging species)
Authors: Haghani Iman , Shams‐Ghahfarokhi Masoomeh , Dalimi Asl Abdolhossein , Shokohi Tahereh , Hedayati Mohammad Taghi
Published: September 2018

Onychomycosis is a common nail problem, accounting for up to 50% of all nail diseases. The aim of the present study was to determine the species distribution based on the restriction fragment length polymorphism and susceptibility patterns of the causative agents of onychomycosis. This cross‐sectional study was conducted on nail samples collected from 257 patients suspected of onychomycosis during 14 months. Fungal isolates were identified by polymerase chain reaction‐restriction fragment length polymorphisms (PCR‐RFLP) with the enzymes Msp I, Mva I, Alw I and sequencing. According to the results, out of the 257 patients participating in the study, onychomycosis was diagnosed in 180 (70.03%) cases, among which 51.1% were caused by non‐dermatophyte moulds (NDMs), 35% by yeast and 10.6% by dermatophytes. Numerous cryptic species recovered from onychomycosis for the first time. In the majority of cases, novel triazoles and imidazoles (ie, efinaconazole, luliconazole and lanoconazole) showed potent activity in comparison with other antifungal agents. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of luliconazole and lanoconazole ranged within 0.001 to >1 μg/mL and their geometric mean MICs were 0.0154 and 0.0309 μg/mL against all isolates, respectively. It seems that obtained data will be useful to improve the knowledge of researchers, clinicians and dermatologists about onychomycosis distribution, species diversity and adoption of appropriate treatment.
Context‐dependency of resource allocation trade‐offs highlights constraints to the evolution of floral longevity in a monocarpic herb
Authors: Spigler Rachel B. , Woodard Alyssa J.
Published: September 2018

Floral longevity is a critical component of floral display, yet there is a conspicuous paucity of empirical research on its evolution within species. Evolutionary models of floral longevity are grounded in resource allocation theory and propose that selection acts on heritable variation to optimize longevity in light of competing floral construction and maintenance costs. Key assumptions remain untested within wild species.

We measured maximum floral longevity alongside protandry, flower size, flower number and flowering rate across families of the monocarpic herb Sabatia angularis grown under high and low resources. We evaluated genetic variation, plasticity and correlations between display traits, including fundamental resource–allocation trade‐offs and their interactions with resource availability.

All display traits showed significant genetic variation. Resource availability influenced mean floral longevity and flower number, with genetic variation in these responses. Importantly, both floral longevity–flower number and flower number–size trade‐offs were significant and stronger under low resources.

This study reinforces the application of resource allocation theory to floral display trait evolution. Our work highlights the context‐dependency of trade‐offs and the potential importance of plasticity in resource allocation, with plants investing in the construction of new flowers at faster rates when resources are high rather than in the maintenance of longer‐lived flowers.
The grapevine (Vitis vinifera) LysM receptor kinases VvLYK1‐1 and VvLYK1‐2 mediate chitooligosaccharide‐triggered immunity
Authors: Brulé Daphnée , Villano Clizia , Davies Laura J. , Trdá Lucie , Claverie Justine , Héloir Marie‐Claire , Chiltz Annick , Adrian Marielle , Darblade Benoît , Tornero Pablo , Stransfeld Lena , Boutrot Freddy , Zipfel Cyril , Dry Ian B. , Poinssot Benoit
Published: September 2018

Chitin, a major component of fungal cell walls, is a well‐known pathogen‐associated molecular pattern (PAMP) that triggers defense responses in several mammal and plant species. Here, we show that two chitooligosaccharides, chitin and chitosan, act as PAMPs in grapevine (Vitis vinifera) as they elicit immune signalling events, defense gene expression and resistance against fungal diseases. To identify their cognate receptors, the grapevine family of LysM receptor kinases (LysM‐RKs) was annotated and their gene expression profiles were characterized. Phylogenetic analysis clearly distinguished three V. vinifera LysM‐RKs (VvLYKs) located in the same clade as the Arabidopsis CHITIN ELICITOR RECEPTOR KINASE1 (AtCERK1), which mediates chitin‐induced immune responses. The Arabidopsis mutant Atcerk1, impaired in chitin perception, was transformed with these three putative orthologous genes encoding VvLYK1‐1, ‐2, or ‐3 to determine if they would complement the loss of AtCERK1 function. Our results provide evidence that VvLYK1‐1 and VvLYK1‐2, but not VvLYK1‐3, functionally complement the Atcerk1 mutant by restoring chitooligosaccharide‐induced MAPK activation and immune gene expression. Moreover, expression of VvLYK1‐1 in Atcerk1 restored penetration resistance to the non‐adapted grapevine powdery mildew (Erysiphe necator). On the whole, our results indicate that the grapevine VvLYK1‐1 and VvLYK1‐2 participate in chitin‐ and chitosan‐triggered immunity and that VvLYK1‐1 plays an important role in basal resistance against E. necator.
DNA methylome analysis provides evidence that the expansion of the tea genome is linked to TE bursts
Authors: Wang Lei , Shi Yan , Chang Xiaojun , Jing Shengli , Zhang Qunjie , You Chenjiang , Yuan Hongyu , Wang Haifeng
Published: September 2018

DNA methylation is essential for gene regulation, imprinting and silencing of transposable elements (TEs). Although bursts of transposable elements are common in many plant lineages, how plant DNA methylation is related to transposon bursts remains unclear. Here we explore the landscape of DNA methylation of tea, a species thought to have experienced a recent transposon burst event. This species possesses more transposable elements than any other sequenced asterids (potato, tomato, coffee, pepper and tobacco). The overall average DNA methylation levels were found to differ among the tea, potato and tomato genomes, and methylation at CHG sequence sites was found to be significantly higher in tea than that in potato or tomato. Moreover, the abundant TEs resulting from burst events not only resulted in tea developing a very large genome size, but also affected many genes involved in importantly biological processes, including caffeine, theanine and flavonoid metabolic pathway genes. In addition, recently transposed TEs were more heavily methylated than ancient ones, implying that DNA methylation is proportionate to the degree of TE silencing, especially on recent active ones. Taken together, our results show that DNA methylation regulates transposon silencing and may play a role in genome size expansion.
Spectroscopic Properties of Lumiflavin: A Quantum Chemical Study
Authors: Kar Rajiv Kumar , Borin Veniamin A. , Ding Yonghong , Matysik Jörg , Schapiro Igor
Published: September 2018

In this work, the electronic structure and spectroscopic properties of lumiflavin are calculated using various quantum chemical methods. The excitation energies for ten singlet and triplet states as well as the analysis of the electron density difference are assessed using various wave function‐based methods and density functionals. The relative order of singlet and triplet excited states is established on the basis of the coupled cluster method CC2. We find that at least seven singlet excited states are required to assign all peaks in the UV/Vis spectrum. In addition, we have studied the solvatochromic effect on the excitation energies and found differential effects except for the first bright excited state. Vibrational frequencies as well as IR, Raman and resonance Raman intensities are simulated and compared to their experimental counterparts. We have assigned peaks, assessed the effect of anharmonicity, and confirmed the previous assignments in case of the most intense transitions. Finally, we have studied the NMR shieldings and established the effect of the solvent polarity. The present study provides data for lumiflavin in the gas phase and in implicit solvent model that can be used as a reference for the protein‐embedded flavin simulations and assignment of experimental spectra.
Synchronous case of follicular lymphoma and Langerhans cell sarcoma in the same lymph node
Authors: Shimono Joji , Miyoshi Hiroaki , Arakawa Fumiko , Abe Hideyuki , Miyagishima Takuto , Akiba Jun , Teshima Takanori , Ohshima Koichi
Published: September 2018

Langerhans cell sarcoma (LCS) is a very rare histiocytic and dendritic cell neoplasm originating from Langerhans cells. There are case reports of histiocytic and dendritic cell neoplasms synchronously or sequentially observed in patients with malignant lymphoma. We present a case in which LCS and follicular lymphoma (FL) grade 3a were observed within the same lymph node. A 66‐year‐old male visited our hospital with a general malaise. Pleural effusion and systemic lymph adenopathy were detected. Biopsy of an inguinal lymph node was performed. The lymph node had regions with follicular structure and regions with acidophilic cytoplasm and large proliferating atypical cells. The tumor cells in the regions with follicular structure showed positivity for CD20 and BCL2 consistent with an FL grade 3a diagnosis. The tumor cells in the regions without follicular structure showed positivity for CD1a and S‐100 and were consistent with an LCS diagnosis. Both tumor cells showed the positivity of BCL6 split by FISH. PCR detected IgH clonality in DNA collected from each region, and direct sequence analysis of cells from both tumors detected almost identical amino acid sequences. This finding is important for future research on the development of very rare histiocytic and dendritic cell neoplasms.
Physio‐biochemical assessment and expression analysis of genes associated with drought tolerance in sugarcane (Saccharum spp. hybrids) exposed to GA3 at grand growth stage
Authors: Tripathi P. , Chandra A. , Prakash J.
Published: September 2018

Drought is one of the most serious environmental factors limiting production of sugarcane worldwide. In order to assess the influence of gibberellins (GA3) on drought and plant growth, along with associated physio‐biochemical attributes, expression of eight drought‐responsive genes were quantified and analysed.

At grand growth stage (120 DAP) two sugarcane varieties (CoLk94184, CoPK05191) were exposed to drought by withholding irrigation. GA3 (35 ppm) was applied using battery‐operated uniform controlled dispensing sprayer twice at 1‐week intervals on 2‐week drought‐stressed plants. Physio‐biochemical attributes including antioxidant enzyme activities were estimated following standard protocols. RT‐PCR was performed to visualise the drought‐associated gene expression patterns.

Drought triggered a reduction in RWC and chlorophyll content but these recovered when droughted plants were exposed to GA3. Proline content increased many fold in both varieties under stress, but decreased under the influence of GA3. There was a mixed response of antioxidant enzyme activity, which distinctly declined after GA3 exposure, together with a lesser reduction in dry matter content over that of control plants. With increasing stress, expression of pyrroline‐5‐carboxylase synthetase (P5CS) and betaine‐aldehyde dehydrogenase genes was observed, selectively up‐regulated in CoPK05191. Expression of proline oxidase/transporter was high in CoPK05191 but diminished along with proline content after exposure to GA3. CoLk94184 showed no significant difference in P5CS gene expression under stress condition, whereas expression of betaine‐aldehyde dehydrogenase gene was unchanged in response to stress.

Results demonstrated that exposure of droughted plants to GA3 not only led to recovery of activity of drought‐associated physio‐biochemical attributes, but also minimised impact on cane dry weight and quality. Further, GA3 application caused differential gene expression that possibly triggers increased responsiveness towards drought tolerance in sugarcane.
Corporate entrepreneurship initiatives: Antagonizing cognitive biases in business model design
Authors: Roessler Mirjam , Velamuri Vivek K. , Schneckenberg Dirk
Published: September 2018

Entrepreneurs designing novel business model configurations face cognitive biases that derive from limited mental capacity to deal with complex and uncertain decision contexts. Building on the notion of the business model as an idiosyncratic mental representation that organizes managerial understanding of value creating and value capture, we investigate how entrepreneurs cope with cognitive biases inherent in business model design. We conducted a total of 35 in‐depth interviews with entrepreneurs situated in 15 corporate entrepreneurship initiatives in Germany. Our study results suggest that entrepreneurs counter cognitive biases by combining intuitive and deliberate reasoning approaches. Specifically, we identify five cognitive mechanisms and two higher level cognitive processes undergirding entrepreneurial reasoning in the design of new business models. Our findings provide empirically grounded insights into the cognitive perspective in business model research and help to theorize managerial reasoning during the process of business model design.
The use of an IL1‐receptor antagonist to reverse the changes associated with established tendinopathy in a rat model
Authors: Eskildsen Scott M. , Berkoff David J. , Kallianos Stephen A. , Weinhold Paul S.
Published: September 2018

Interleukin‐1 (IL1) is a cytokine that plays a role in inflammation and is a potential contributor to the inflammation present in tendinopathy. Its inhibition may be of use in the treatment of tendinopathy and has been a target for treatment. To evaluate how an IL1‐receptor antagonist (IL1‐RA) reverses pathologic changes associated with established patellar tendinopathy, we randomized 48 Sprague‐Dawley retired breeder rats into three groups having weekly bilateral patellar tendon injections for 6 weeks. The control group received 0.1 mL saline for 6 weeks. The intervention groups were treated with 0.1 mL 2% carrageenan for 4 weeks. Beginning at week three, the IL1‐RA group received 0.94 mg of the IL1‐RA (2.5 mg/kg) added to the 0.1 mL 2% carrageenan and 0.94 mg of the IL1‐RA alone for the final 2 weeks, while the CAR received 0.1 mL saline for the final 2 weeks. Animals were euthanized 6 weeks after initial injection. The CAR group demonstrated significantly (P < 0.05) shorter tendon lengths (7.81 ± 0.44 mm) than the control (8.25 ± 0.58 mm) and IL1‐RA (8.34 ± 0.52 mm) group (P < 0.05). Macroscopically, plaque‐like formations were reduced and margins of the tendon were more evident in the IL1‐RA group compared to the CAR group. CAR group demonstrated significantly greater histopathologic changes (inflammatory cell density, disorganization of collagen, nuclear rounding, and angiogenesis) than the control and IL1‐RA group. No significant difference in mechanical properties of the tendon was noted. These findings demonstrate IL1‐RA can reduce pathologic changes in the patellar tendon in an established tendonitis model although did not demonstrate a difference in mechanical properties.
The Hispanic Extracurricular Participation Gap*
Authors: Kitchens Karin E. , Gormley William
Published: September 2018

Objectives

Scholars have noted a gap in extracurricular (EC) participation between Hispanic students and other students. But why exactly does this gap exist? We consider four possible explanations: parental awareness, financial resources, family obligations, and access to EC activities.

Methods

To test these possible explanations for the EC participation gap, we use data on middle school participation in EC activities from Tulsa, Oklahoma. We fit a series of ordinary least squares models to analyze membership in EC activities across seven activity types for 381 Hispanic and 447 white students in Tulsa, Oklahoma. We also investigate whether EC activity predicts academic outcomes in middle school.

Results

Parental awareness is the dominant predictor of EC activity. EC activity also has positive effects on math test scores, math and reading grades, and overall grade point average, even after controlling for early academic success.

Conclusions

The key to narrowing the Hispanic‐white EC participation gap would seem to be greater parental awareness of the value of EC activities as well as practical steps that might be taken to enlist children in such activities.
Bad Samaritans: Religion and Anti‐Immigrant and Anti‐Muslim Sentiment in the United States*
Authors: Sherkat Darren E. , Lehman Derek
Published: September 2018

Objectives

Negative sentiment toward immigrants helps fuel preferences for restrictive immigration policy. Religious commitments have been linked to both positive and negative dispositions toward immigrants, Muslims, and immigration. This study tests how religious factors impact negative sentiments toward immigrants and Muslims, and preferences for more restrictive immigration policy.

Methods

We analyze data from the 1996 and 2004–2016 General Social Surveys (GSS), examining scales for negative sentiment toward immigrants, civil liberties for Muslims, and preferences to restrict immigration. Ordinary least squares and ordinal regression models are used to examine the effects of religious factors net of social background and political identifications.

Results

Sectarian Protestants, white Catholics, and biblical literalists were found to have more hostile views of immigrants and Muslims, while nonwhite Catholics, non‐Christians, the unaffiliated, and those with secular beliefs held more positive views of immigrants and immigration.

Conclusions

While elite sectarian Protestants and the Catholic Church hierarchy have urged tolerance for immigrants and immigration, our findings suggest that the sectarians, white Catholics, and biblical literalists hold negative views of immigrants, Muslims, and immigration. Subscription to Christian nationalism also appears to play a role in structuring negative views of immigrants and Muslims.
The impact of the China–Australia Free Trade Agreement on Australia's education exports to China: A legal and economic assessment
Authors: Xi Junfang , Zhou Weihuan , Wang Heng
Published: September 2018

As a landmark achievement in the development of the China–Australia bilateral economic relations, the China–Australia Free Trade Agreement (“ChAFTA”) achieves a higher level of liberalisation in education services compared with China's commitments under the World Trade Organisation and its other free trade agreements. However, the ChAFTA fails to relax the major regulatory barriers in China, which will remain the key obstacles to Australia's education services exports to China. Through a preliminary study and a regression analysis of the impacts of the ChAFTA on Australia's education exports to China based on available data, we show that the ChAFTA did not play a significant role in promoting the application and approval of Sino‐Australian joint programmes but did contribute to the growth of international student enrolments from China. The effect of the ChAFTA is, at best, secondary to that of domestic regulation and tends to be greater in less regulated areas.
Climate Change Is not Only GHGs but Also Economics
Authors: Lane Jan-Erik
Published: September 2018

Climate and Earth scientists have recently provided compelling evidence for abrupt climate change, but this amount to only 50% of this drama. We must ask: If GHGs threaten human survival, why do not humans alter the system of economic production, especially the energy supply responsible for the accelerating global warming? The question of how to transform energy consumption is little discussed: tools, mechanisms, global coordination, country resilience, state or market? Actually, the resistance to energy  change is very strong,
Cardiorespiratory fitness is impaired and predicts mid‐term postoperative survival in patients with abdominal aortic aneurysm disease
Authors: Rose G. A. , Davies R. G. , Appadurai I. R. , Lewis W. G. , Cho J. S. , Lewis M. H. , Williams I. M. , Bailey D. M.
Published: September 2018

New Findings

What is the central question of this study?

To what extent cardiorespiratory fitness is impaired in patients with abdominal aortic aneurysmal (AAA) disease and corresponding implications for postoperative survival requires further investigation.

What is the main finding and its importance?

Cardiorespiratory fitness is impaired in patients with AAA disease. Patients with peak oxygen uptake of <13.1 ml O2 kg−1 min−1 and ventilatory equivalent for carbon dioxide at anaerobic threshold ≥34 are associated with increased risk of postoperative mortality at 2 years. These findings demonstrate that cardiorespiratory fitness can predict mid‐term postoperative survival in AAA patients, which may help to direct care provision.

Preoperative cardiopulmonary exercise testing is a standard assessment of cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) and risk stratification. However, to what extent CRF is impaired in patients undergoing surgical repair of abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) disease and the corresponding implications for postoperative outcome requires further investigation. We measured CRF during an incremental exercise test to exhaustion using online respiratory gas analysis in patients with AAA disease (n = 124, aged 72 ± 7 years) and healthy sedentary control subjects (n = 104, aged 70 ± 7 years). Postoperative survival was examined for association with CRF, and threshold values were calculated for independent predictors of mortality. Patients who underwent preoperative cardiopulmonary exercise testing before surgical repair had lower CRF [age‐adjusted mean difference of 12.5 ml O2 kg−1 min−1 for peak oxygen uptake (), P < 0.001 versus control subjects]. After multivariable analysis, both and the ventilatory equivalent for carbon dioxide at anaerobic threshold () were independent predictors of mid‐term postoperative survival (2 years). Hazard ratios of 5.27 (95% confidence interval 1.62–17.14, P = 0.006) and 3.26 (95% confidence interval 1.00–10.59, P = 0.049) were observed for  < 13.1 ml O2 kg−1 min−1 and ≥ 34, respectively. Thus, CRF is lower in patients with AAA, and those with a  < 13.1 ml O2 kg−1 min−1 and ≥ 34 are associated with a markedly increased risk of postoperative mortality. Collectively, our findings demonstrate that CRF can predict mid‐term postoperative survival in AAA patients, which may help to direct care provision.
A Time-Domain Method for Hydroelasticity of a Curved Floating Bridge in Inhomogeneous Waves
Authors: Wei Wei , Fu Shixiao , Moan Torgeir , Song Chunhui , Deng Shi , Lie Halvor
Published: September 2018

This paper presents a time-domain hydroelastic analysis method for bridges supported by floating pontoons in inhomogeneous wave conditions. The inhomogeneous wave effect is accounted for by adopting different wave spectra over different regions along the structure, then the time history of inhomogeneous first-order wave excitation forces on the floating pontoons can be obtained. The frequency-domain hydrodynamic coefficients are transformed into the time-domain hydroelastic model using Cummins' equations. The linear hydroelastic responses of a curved floating bridge with end supports, subjected to irregular waves with spatially varying significant wave heights and peak periods, are investigated. Moreover, sensitive analyses are performed to study the effects of the inhomogeneity on the hydroelastic responses. The primary results indicate that the inhomogeneity of the waves has a significant effect on the dynamic responses of the floating bridge.
Yolk sac–embryo distance in correlation with soluble form of vascular endothelial growth factor levels in pregnancy with potentially reserved evolutivity
Authors: Bucuri Carmen Elena , Ciortea Razvan , Diculescu Doru , Malutan Andrei , Mocan-Hognogi Radu , Berceanu Costin , Nicula Renata , Rada Maria , Mihu Dan
Published: September 2018

Aims: Embryonic demise is a frequent complication of the first trimester pregnancy. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the correlation between a serum biomarker, the soluble form of the vasculo-endothelial growth factor (sFlt-1) and the distance between the yolk sac (YS) and embryo (DYSE), determined by ultrasonography.Material and methods: The study was a prospective case-control study that included 2 groups of patients – the control group with 81 first-trimester pregnancies in evolution and the case group with 89 first-trimester pregnancies with a potentially reserved evolutivity.Results: A correlation between the serum level of sFlt-1 and DYSE in embryos with crown-rump length (CRL) greater than 5 mm was identified, showing that a DYSE ≤3 mm correlates with a low level of sFlt-1 (p<0.05) and a DYSE> 4 mm correlates with an increased level of sFlt-1 (p<0.05).Conclusions: A low level of sFlt-1 associated with a distance between the embryo and yolk sac of small dimensions, respectively <3 mm, correlates with an increased rate of non-viable embryos. This correlation between an ultrasound and a serum parameter is of great value and brings important information about the viability of firsttrimester pregnancies.
Epstein-Barr virus-associated gastric ulcer mimicking gastric neoplasia: a case report
Authors: Catinean Adrian , Motocu Radu , Fetica Bogdan , Mezei Anita
Published: September 2018

We describe a rare case of a severe gastric ulcer of a 66-year-old immunocompetent man who was associated with primary Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection and temporarily misdiagnosed with gastric lymphoma. A contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT-scan) of the thorax, abdomen and pelvis followed by EUS revealed a neoplastic infiltrative-ulcerative semicircumferentialgastric mass and a 1 cm large satellite adenopathy, being classified as T3N1M0 gastric neoplasia. The histological analysis of the ¾ distal stomach and lymph node sthat were resected contradicted the initial biopsy report, suggesting EBV gastric ulcer, etiology confirmed by the in situ hybridization technique.
Ultrasound for kidney access in percutaneous nephrolithotomy: a contemporary review
Authors: Iordache Alexandru , Baston Catalin , Silviu-Stelian Guler-Margaritis , Angelescu Emil , Cerempei Vasile , Olivier Traxer , Sinescu Ioanel
Published: September 2018

Nowadays percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) is the standard of care for renal staghorn calculus or large (>20 mm) pelvic or caliceal stones, as well as for the failure of other treatment options. This review aims to evaluate the contemporary use of ultrasound imaging in PCNL, by comparing it to conventional fluoroscopy, reviewing data regarding the complication and success rate of nephrostomy tract creation and stone free rate (SFR), as well as data concerning the learning curve for these procedures and cost indicators. The evidence acquired shows that the ultrasound guided access (USGA) is a comparable method with the classic fluoroscopic guided access (FGA), with a similar safety profile, with a significant reduction in radiation exposure, up to radiation free complete PCNL. USGA PCNL seems to lead to decreased bleeding and need for transfusion, especially when the Doppler mode is used, and also to a slightly higher SFR than conventional FGA PCNL. USGA PCNL reduces the overall costs of the procedure by about 30% and can be safely learnt and performed by urologists. For an experienced endourologist, familiar withFGA PCNL, the learning curve for shifting to USGA PCNL is of approximately 20 procedures.
Investigation of nonlinear ultrasonic guided waves in open waveguides based on perfectly matched layers
Authors: Zuo Peng , Liu Yang , Zhou Yu , Fan Zheng
Published: September 2018

Nonlinear ultrasonic guided waves have been investigated widely in closed waveguides such as plates, pipes, etc. However, the description of nonlinear ultrasonic guided waves remains challenging for open waveguides, as energy may leak into the surrounding medium. In this work, the properties of nonlinear ultrasonic guided waves in open waveguides are investigated. Mathematical framework is first established based on real reciprocity relation and modal expansion with perfectly matched layers. Numerical models are then implemented, including nonlinear semi-analytical finite element (SAFE) method to predict the properties of nonlinear ultrasonic guided waves, and time domain finite element models to simulate the nonlinear guided wave propagation and cross validate the predictions from the nonlinear SAFE method. Two examples, an aluminum plate attached to an elastomer and an aluminum plate with water loaded on one side, are studied to demonstrate the proposed methods and reveal some interesting phenomena that only exist in open waveguides. It is interesting to find out that the amplitude of the attenuated second harmonic wave in immersed waveguides can keep constant with propagation distance, only if the primary wave is non-leaky, which may bring potential non-destructive test applications for underwater inspections. Such a feature is validated by well-designed experiments in one-sidedly immersed plates.
Active control of outgoing noise fields in rooms
Authors: Ma Fei , Zhang Wen , Abhayapala Thushara D.
Published: September 2018

Current active noise control systems can cancel noises in a duct effectively. However, they are insufficient for suppressing complex noise fields in time-varying rooms. This paper develops an active noise control system that can cancel tonal noise fields produced by a primary source in a room. The problem of tonal noise field control is formulated as estimating and canceling the outgoing field on a sphere surrounding the primary source. The proposed system limits the energy of the primary source radiating out of the sphere, thereby creating a global quiet zone inside the room. In addition, it removes the need for online secondary path estimation with reduced influence on desired sound fields in the room. A method for estimating the outgoing field on a sphere is presented, together with a wave-domain algorithm for controlling the outgoing field. Simulations and hardware demonstrations show the proposed system can reduce tonal noise fields in a room and over a wide frequency range.