bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How to assign a (3 + 1)-dimensional superspace group to an incommensurately modulated biological macromolecular crystal
Authors: Porta Jason , Lovelace Jeff , Borgstahl Gloria E. O.
Published: June 2017

Periodic crystal diffraction is described using a three-dimensional (3D) unit cell and 3D space-group symmetry. Incommensurately modulated crystals are a subset of aperiodic crystals that need four to six dimensions to describe the observed diffraction pattern, and they have characteristic satellite reflections that are offset from the main reflections. These satellites have a non-integral relationship to the primary lattice and requireqvectors for processing. Incommensurately modulated biological macromolecular crystals have been frequently observed but so far have not been solved. The authors of this article have been spearheading an initiative to determine this type of crystal structure. The first step toward structure solution is to collect the diffraction data making sure that the satellite reflections are well separated from the main reflections. Once collected they can be integrated and then scaled with appropriate software. Then the assignment of the superspace group is needed. The most common form of modulation is in only one extra direction and can be described with a (3 + 1)D superspace group. The (3 + 1)D superspace groups for chemical crystallographers are fully described in Volume C ofInternational Tables for Crystallography. This text includes all types of crystallographic symmetry elements found in small-molecule crystals and can be difficult for structural biologists to understand and apply to their crystals. This article provides an explanation for structural biologists that includes only the subset of biological symmetry elements and demonstrates the application to a real-life example of an incommensurately modulated protein crystal.
{1,1′-Bis[(pyridin-2-yl)methyl]-2,2′-bipiperidyl}(perchlorato)copper(II) perchlorate
Authors: Yang Guang , Rybak-Akimova Elena V. , Campana Charles
Published: June 2017

The title complex, [CuII(ClO4)(mesoPYBP)](ClO4) {PYBP = 1,1′-bis[(pyridin-2-yl)methyl]-2,2′-bipiperidyl, C22H30N4}, was prepared and found to crystallize with two crystallographically independent complex salt moieties. The metal atoms of the cations adopt a pseudo-square-pyramidal coordination geometry, where the tetradentate aminopyridine ligands (PYBP) are wrapped around the Cu atoms in the equatorial plane. The Cu—O bonds involving an O atom of the coordinating perchlorate anion are approximately perpendicular to the plane. The two remaining non-coordinating perchlorate anions are involved in several C—H...O hydrogen bonds with the PYBP ligand and balance the total charge of the complex salt. The two crystallographically independent moieties are related to each otherviaa pseudo-translation along thea-axis direction. Exact translational symmetry is broken by (i) a difference in the conformation of one of the piperidine rings, featuring a chair conformation in one of the cations, and a sterically disfavored boat conformation in the other; and (ii) by modulation of the non-coordinating perchlorate anions.
Two closely related 2-(benzofuran-2-yl)-2-oxoethyl benzoates: structural differences and C—H...O hydrogen-bonded supramolecular assemblies
Authors: Then Li Yee , Chidan Kumar C. S. , Kwong Huey Chong , Win Yip-Foo , Mah Siau Hui , Quah Ching Kheng , Naveen S. , Warad Ismail
Published: June 2017

The compounds 2-(1-benzofuran-2-yl)-2-oxoethyl 2-nitrobenzoate, C17H11NO6(I), and 2-(1-benzofuran-2-yl)-2-oxoethyl 2-aminobenzoate, C17H13NO4(II), were synthesized under mild conditions. Their molecular structures were characterized by both spectroscopic and single-crystal X-ray diffraction analysis. The molecular conformations of both title compounds are generally similar. However, differentortho-substituted moieties at the phenyl ring of the two compounds cause deviations in the torsion angles between the carbonyl group and the attached phenyl ring. In compound (I), theortho-nitrophenyl ring is twisted away from the adjacent carbonyl group whereas in compound (II), theortho-aminophenyl ring is almost co-planar with the carbonyl group. In the crystal of compound (I), two C—H...O hydrogen bonds link the molecules into chains propagating along thec-axis direction and the chains are interdigitated, forming sheets parallel to [20-1]. Conversely, pairs of N—H...O hydrogen bonds in compound (II) link inversion-related molecules into dimers, which are further extended by C—H...O hydrogen bonds into dimer chains. These chains are interconnected by π–π interactions involving the furan rings, forming sheets parallel to theacplane.
Crystal structures and supramolecular features of 9,9-dimethyl-3,7-diazabicyclo[3.3.1]nonane-2,4,6,8-tetraone, 3,7-diazaspiro[bicyclo[3.3.1]nonane-9,1′-cyclopentane]-2,4,6,8-tetraone and 9-methyl-9-phenyl-3,7-diazabicyclo[3.3.1]nonane-2,4,6,8-tetraone dimethylformamide monosolvate
Authors: Vatsadze Sergey Z. , Manaenkova Marina A. , Vasilev Evgeny V. , Venskovsky Nikolai U. , Khrustalev Victor N.
Published: June 2017

Compounds (I), C9H10N2O4, (II), C11H12N2O4, and (III), C14H12N2O4·C3H7NO represent 9,9-disubstituted-3,7-diazabicyclo[3.3.1]nonane-2,4,6,8-tetraone derivatives with very similar molecular geometries for the bicyclic framework: the dihedral angle between the planes of the imide groups is 74.87 (6), 73.86 (3) and 74.83 (6)° in (I)–(III), respectively. The dimethyl derivative (I) is positioned on a crystallographic twofold axis and its overall geometry deviates only slightly from idealizedC2vsymmetry. The spiro-cyclopentane derivative (II) and the phenyl/methyl analog (III) retain only internalCssymmetry, which in the case of (II) coincides with crystallographic mirror symmetry. The cyclopentane moiety in (II) adopts an envelope conformation, with the spiro C atom deviating from the mean plane of the rest of the ring by 0.548 (2) Å. In compound (III), an N—H...O hydrogen bond is formed with the dimethylformamide solvent molecule. In the crystal, both (I) and (II) form similar zigzag hydrogen-bonded ribbons through double intermolecular N—H...O hydrogen bonds. However, whereas in (I) the ribbons are formed by twotrans-arranged O=C—N—H amide fragments, the amide fragments arecis-positioned in (II). The formation of ribbons in (III) is apparently disrupted by participation of one of its N—H groups in hydrogen bonding with the solvent molecule. As a result, the molecules of (III) form zigzag chains rather than the ribbons through intermolecular N—H...O hydrogen bonds. The crystal of (I) was a pseudo-merohedral twin.
Emerging markets: the impact of ICT on the economy and society
Authors: Amiri Shahram , Woodside Joseph M.
Published: June 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this research is to quantifiably measure the relationship between technological advancement, economic growth and societal employment trends across the Brazil, Russia, India and China (BRIC) countries, while also describing various government initiatives and policy steps taken to promote technology development.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper examines the relationship between the United Nations’ International Telecommunication Union’s Information and Communication Technology (ICT) development Index (IDI), gross domestic product (GDP) and unemployment data. The paper also reviews the broadband and e-readiness components of each BRIC nation to further describe the policies in adoption of ICT.

Findings

This research concludes that there is in fact a significant positive correlation between technology (as measured by IDI) and economy (as measured by a nation’s GDP) and there is a significant negative correlation between technology (as measured by IDI) and a nation’s unemployment rate benefiting the society.

Originality/value

This research seeks to describe the impact of Information Communication Technology on economic and society indices in BRIC. Paper contributions include an empirical measurement and relationship between technological advancement, economic growth and employment trends across the BRIC countries, while also describing various government policy initiatives taken to promote technology.
What’s your anonymity worth? Establishing a marketplace for the valuation and control of individuals’ anonymity and personal data
Authors: Robinson Stephen Cory
Published: June 2017

Purpose

The viability of online anonymity is questioned in today’s online environment where many technologies enable tracking and identification of individuals. In light of the shortcomings of the government, industry and consumers in protecting anonymity, it is clear that a new perspective for ensuring anonymity is needed. Where current stakeholders have failed to protect anonymity, some proponents argue that economic models exist for valuation of anonymity. By placing a monetary value on anonymity through Rawls’ concept of primary goods, it is possible to create a marketplace for anonymity, therefore allowing users full control of how their personal data is used. This paper aims to explore the creation of a data marketplace, offering users the possibility of engaging with companies and other entities to sell and auction personal data. Importantly, participation in a marketplace does not sacrifice one’s anonymity, as there are different levels of anonymity in online systems.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper uses a conceptual framework based on the abstractions of anonymity and data valuation.

Findings

The manuscript constructs a conceptual foundation for exploring the development and deployment of a personal data marketplace. By suggesting features allowing individuals’ control of their personal data, and properly establishing monetary valuation of one’s personal data, it is argued that individuals will undertake a more proactive management of personal data.

Originality/value

An overview of the available services and products offering increased anonymity is explored, in turn, illustrating the beginnings of a market response for anonymity as a valuable good. By placing a monetary value on individuals’ anonymity, it is reasoned that individuals will more consciously protect their anonymity in ways where legislation and other practices (i.e. privacy policies, marketing opt-out) have failed.
Customer co-creation and adoption intention towards newly developed services: an empirical study
Authors: Sarmah Bijoylaxmi , Rahman Zillur , Kamboj Shampy
Published: June 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to develop a conceptual framework to empirically examine and explain the antecedent factors of consumers’ adoption intention toward co-creatively developed new travel services using smart phone apps. The antecedents include consumer innovativeness, trust, degree of co-creation that results in positive adoption intention. In this study, tourists’ degree of co-creation acts as a mediator between trust and adoption intention.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected through online surveys from tourists that resulted into a total of 152 valid responses. An analysis of data was done by applying the confirmatory factor analysis along with structural equation modeling.

Findings

The findings of this study indicate that both consumer innovativeness and trust significantly affect adoption intention directly and indirectly via degree of co-creation among tourists and e-travel service providers. Degree of co-creation acts as a mediator between the above-mentioned relationships.

Research limitations/implications

Use of smart phone apps by tourists’ and e-travel companies to co-create new services and tourists’ adoption intention have been examined in context of co-created service innovation that limits the generalizability of the results to other industries. A few other limitations are also discussed.

Practical implications

The findings of this study guides the policy planners and e-travel company managers toward application of mobile technology in consumer co-creation in context of service innovation.

Originality/value

Tourists’ trust in the e-travel companies and their innovativeness were found to influence their degree of co-creation, which are instrumental in developing adoption intention toward co-creative new service innovation using smart phone apps in India. This is a significant addition to the existing literature, as studies on co-creation activities aiming to co-develop new services by tourists and e-travel companies in India are scant in number. In addition to this, the newly developed conceptual model also highlights the role of degree of co-creation as a mediator between two antecedents (trust and innovativeness) and outcome (tourists’ adoption intention), which are considered as new additions to the co-creative service innovation literature.
Immigrants’ socio-economic achievements and cultural diversity
Authors: Tubadji Annie , Gheasi Masood , Nijkamp Peter
Published: June 2017

Purpose

An interest in social transmission as a source of welfare and income inequality in a society has re-emerged recently with new vigour in leading economic research (see Piketty, 2014). This paper presents a mixed Bourdieu-Mincer (B-M) type micro-economic model which provides a testable mechanism for culturally biased socio-economic inter-generational transmission. In particular, the operationalisation of this mixed B-M type model seeks to find evidence for individual and local cultural capital effects on the economic achievements, in addition to the human capital effect, for both migrants and locals in the Netherlands. The purpose of this paper is to examine two sources of wage differential in the local labour market, namely: individual cultural capital (approximated by immigrant background), which affects schooling results; and the local cultural capital (approximated with the cultural milieu), which directly biases the selection of employees.

Design/methodology/approach

The study utilises the 2007-2009 data set for higher professional education (in Dutch termed HBO) graduates registered in the Maastricht database. The Mincer-type equation is augmented with a control variable for the local cultural milieu. The authors cope with this model empirically by means of 2SLS and 3SLS methods.

Findings

The authors find convincing evidence for the existence of both an individual cultural capital and a local cultural capital effect on schooling and wage differentials. This can be interpreted as a migrant background effect leading to a disadvantaged position on the labour market due to less frequently attending high-quality secondary schools.

Originality/value

More importantly, the authors find evidence for a classical Myrdalian effect of self-fulfilling prophecy, in which graduates with second-generation migrant background have a disadvantaged position due to access only to poorer quality of schooling.
Exploring research on quality and reliability management through text mining methodology
Authors: Carnerud Daniel
Published: June 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore and describe research presented in the International Journal of Quality & Reliability Management (IJQRM), thereby creating an increased understanding of how the areas of research have evolved through the years. An additional purpose is to show how text mining methodology can be used as a tool for exploration and description of research publications.

Design/methodology/approach

The study applies text mining methodologies to explore and describe the digital library of IJQRM from 1984 up to 2014. To structure and condense the data, k-means clustering and probabilistic topic modeling with latent Dirichlet allocation is applied. The data set consists of research paper abstracts.

Findings

The results support the suggestion of the occurrence of trends, fads and fashion in research publications. Research on quality function deployment (QFD) and reliability management are noted to be on the downturn whereas research on Six Sigma with a focus on lean, innovation, performance and improvement on the rise. Furthermore, the study confirms IJQRM as a scientific journal with quality and reliability management as primary areas of coverage, accompanied by specific topics such as total quality management, service quality, process management, ISO, QFD and Six Sigma. The study also gives an insight into how text mining can be used as a way to efficiently explore and describe large quantities of research paper abstracts.

Research limitations/implications

The study focuses on abstracts of research papers, thus topics and categories that could be identified via other journal publications, such as book reviews; general reviews; secondary articles; editorials; guest editorials; awards for excellence (notifications); introductions or summaries from conferences; notes from the publisher; and articles without an abstract, are excluded.

Originality/value

There do not seem to be any prior text mining studies that apply cluster modeling and probabilistic topic modeling to research article abstracts in the IJQRM. This study therefore offers a unique perspective on the journal’s content.
A predictive maintenance system for hybrid degradation processes
Authors: You Ming-Yi
Published: June 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to propose a predictive maintenance (PdM) system for hybrid degradation processes with continuous degradation and sudden damage to improve maintenance effectiveness.

Design/methodology/approach

The PdM system updates the degradation model using partial condition monitoring information based on degradation type judgment. In addition, an extended multi-step-ahead updating stopping condition is adopted for performance enhancement of the PdM system.

Findings

An extensive numerical investigation compares the performance of the PdM system with the corresponding preventive maintenance (PM) policy. By carefully choosing the updating stopping condition, the PdM policy performs better than the corresponding PM policy.

Research limitations/implications

The proposed PdM system is applicable to single-unit systems. And the continuous degradation process should be well modeled by the stochastic linear degradation model (Gebraeel et al., 2009).

Originality/value

In literature, there are abundant studies on PdM policies for continuous degradation processes. However, research on hybrid degradation processes still focuses on condition-based maintenance policy and a PdM policy for a hybrid degradation process is still unreported. In this paper, a PdM system for hybrid degradation processes with continuous degradation and sudden damage is proposed. The PdM system decides PM schedules by fully utilizing the condition monitoring data of each specific product, and can hopefully improve maintenance effectiveness.
There is no there without a library
Authors: Massis Bruce
Published: June 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide examples by which the library, in its role as an essential service positioned at the center of a community, offers its services to not only a segment of the community but to it in its entirety.

Design/methodology/approach

This is a literature review and commentary on this topic that has been addressed by professionals, researchers and practitioners.

Findings

If it is to remain a viable, productive and trusted symbol of equality and humanity, the library must ensure that, whether it is located in a village, a town or a municipality, the library stands as the center of its community, with its doors swung wide and welcoming to all who enter.

Originality/value

The value in exploring this topic is to offer several examples of evidence indicating that the library is expected to continue in its role as an essential and respected community service, with programs and services accessible to all into the future.
A comparison of brand equity strength across consumer segments and markets
Authors: Stocchi Lara , Fuller Rachel
Published: June 2017

Purpose

This paper aims to compare brand equity strength, i.e. the extent to which brand awareness and brand image contribute to purchase propensity, for different segments of consumers (non-users, light users and heavy users) and two different markets (soft drinks and banking, representing a repertoire and a subscription context, respectively).

Design/methodology/approach

This aim is pursued using a scalable customer-based brand equity (CBBE) framework, which captures how brand awareness and brand image, on a continuum of brand knowledge, underpin purchase propensity. The framework constitutes a “tool” for the analysis of brand equity strength, and it is applied, alongside a suite of empirical tests, to a large set of longitudinal consumer survey data collected from the same consumers and for both markets.

Findings

There are meaningful differences across the three consumer segments considered, especially in relation to brand image values, which are generally greater for more loyal consumers. Furthermore, the overall strength of brand equity is greater for banking brands compared to soft drinks brands.

Practical implications

This research highlights the practical importance of detecting and managing differences in brand equity strength across consumer segments with dissimilar brand loyalty. It also suggests that there is relatively more value in evaluating and managing the CBBE process in subscription markets, than in repertoire markets.

Originality/value

The contribution of this research to brand equity knowledge is twofold. It addresses concerns in relation to the need to analyze brand equity at a disaggregated level and it sheds light on inconclusive findings in relation to the generalizability of CBBE principles across different types of markets.
The contribution of a brand spokesperson’s voice to consumer-based brand equity
Authors: Zoghaib Alice
Published: June 2017

Purpose

This paper aims to explore the characteristics of a brand spokesperson’s voice that are the most valuable for consumer-based brand equity (CBBE) and evaluates various explanations in previous research regarding the influences of a speaker’s voice.

Design/methodology/approach

Brand identities can transfer their associations and affect as well as influence brand recall, thus contributing to CBBE. In addition, the pitch and gender of a speaker’s voice are considered as key characteristics of voice perception. This experimental study exposed 521 respondents to 12 different voices and measured the effects of a spokesperson’s voice pitch and gender on associations, attitude toward the voice and brand recall.

Findings

This study presents a model that explains the influence of a brand spokesperson’s voice on CBBE. The findings show that low-pitched voices induced distinctive, positive associations and led to a more positive attitude toward the voice and greater brand recall, regardless of the gender of the spokesperson and that of the respondent. Moreover, voice associations partially mediated the effects on attitude toward the voice and completely mediated the effects on brand recall.

Originality/value

While numerous brands have resorted to specific voices to represent themselves, brand spokesperson’s voice and its associations have not been studied. This study highlights the importance of a spokesperson’s voice pitch and its associations in building CBBE and nuances the roles of spokespersons’ and respondents’ gender.
Nerve conduction study of lower extremities in cutaneous arteritis patients with neurological manifestations
Authors: Isahaya Kenji , Kawakami Tamihiro , Shiraishi Makoto , Akiyama Hisanao , Hasegawa Yasuhiro
Published: June 2017

Some patients originally diagnosed with cutaneous arteritis (CA) could develop additional disease manifestations, including peripheral neurological involvement. We evaluated the biological neurological parameters among CA patients who underwent nerve conduction studies for neurological involvement in the lower extremities. We reviewed 164 patients who were originally diagnosed with CA at our dermatology department between 2004 and 2015. Seventeen (10.4%) of the CA patients underwent further nerve conduction studies to determine their peripheral neurological manifestations, primarily in the lower extremities, in our neurology division. The frequency of low compound muscle action potential (CMAP) was significantly higher compared with that of delayed latency in both the peroneal nerve and sural nerve based on nerve conduction studies. The frequency of low CMAP was significantly higher compared with that of prolonged distal latency in both the peroneal and sural nerves. We suggest that impairment of the nerve axon pathways in the peroneal and sural nerves could result in the peripheral neurological manifestations in the lower extremities in CA patients.
Case of cholinergic urticaria accompanied by anaphylaxis
Authors: Iijima Shigeruko , Kojo Kazumi , Takayama Noriko , Hiragun Makiko , Kan Takanobu , Hide Michihiro
Published: June 2017

Cholinergic urticaria occasionally occurs in combination with anaphylactic symptoms. However, this has not been widely reported. Herein, we report the case of a 14‐year‐old Japanese male who was diagnosed with cholinergic urticaria accompanied by anaphylaxis. The patient, who was suffering from atopic dermatitis and bronchial asthma, had developed wheals after exercising or bathing, which would have increased his core body temperature, since summer 2014. He experienced two episodes of severe systemic symptoms and wheal development when he took a bath after eating in December 2014 and the following January. His symptoms included wheezing, numbness of the lips, respiratory distress, blindness and fainting. Laboratory tests revealed the following results: serum IgE level, 7060 IU/mL; titers of specific immunoglobulin E antibodies against Malassezia and MGL_1304, 31.70 UA/mL and 112.5 ng/mL, respectively. A histamine release test against human sweat revealed a class 4 response. Skin prick and intradermal tests against autologous sweat produced immediate‐type positive reactions. According to these findings, we diagnosed him with the sweat‐hypersensitivity type of cholinergic urticaria accompanied by anaphylaxis. He was successfully treated with lafutidine, a histamine H2 receptor antagonist, in combination with fexofenadine. It is important for dermatologists to be aware that cholinergic urticaria can progress to anaphylaxis.
Sodium Reduction in Bread: A Role for Glasswort (Salicornia ramosissima J. Woods)
Authors: Lopes Maria , Cavaleiro Carlos , Ramos Fernando
Published: June 2017

Excessive dietary sodium (salt) intake is a primary cause of high blood pressure and, consequently, a major risk factor for cardiovascular diseases. The World Health Organization wants to reduce the current sodium mean intake of approximately 4 g/d by half. Bread is commonly consumed and a major source of sodium. Therefore, reducing sodium content in bread would bring important economic and public health benefits. Thus, the goal of this paper is to provide an overview of the role of salt in bread manufacturing, summarize already tested reduction strategies, and explore glasswort (Salicornia ramosissima J. Woods) as a salt substitute. Some alternatives to the sodium additives often used in the bread‐making process are also suggested. For this, an extensive literature review was carried out. Overall, salt reduction in bread, while maintaining product quality, is difficult to accomplish due to its multifunctional role in the bread‐making process. Several strategies have been tried so far, with only partial success. Consequently, the use of glasswort (S. ramosissima J. Woods) as salt substitute shows great potential. However, other research is still needed to safely implement it in the baking industry. On the other hand, the reduction of salt alone is not the complete answer, and the replacement of sodium‐based additives also needs to be considered to effectively lower sodium consumption.
Effects of X‐ray irradiation on development and reproduction of the oriental tobacco budworm, Helicoverpa assulta (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)
Authors: Park Jeong Sun , Jeong Su Yeon , Kim Min Jee , Kim Iksoo
Published: June 2017

All stages of the life cycle of Helicoverpa assulta were irradiated with X‐rays to determine the inhibitory dose for development and reproduction to serve as a quarantine treatment. The 100‐Gy dose was effective for irradiation of eggs and larvae, and the 200‐Gy dose was effective for pupae and mixed‐sex adults. When either adult males or females were irradiated, however, 500 Gy was required to prevent the F1 eggs from hatching, and thus single‐sex adults required much higher doses of X‐ray irradiation. To gather confirmatory data applicable to phytosanitary quarantine regulations, pupae—the immature stage most resistant to X‐ray irradiation—were placed inside paprika in boxes for exportation and were irradiated with 300 Gy as a small‐scale confirmatory test. The dose given to 1,007 individual pupae resulted in 12.62 % survival, and 1.79 % of pupae emerged as normal adults; however, these adults produced only a few eggs that did not hatch, suggesting that a minimum dose of 300 Gy of X‐ray irradiation will provide quarantine security for immature H. assulta in paprika exports.
EU Policies towards Egypt: The Civil Security Paradox
Authors: Rabou Ahmed Abd
Published: June 2017

Can Egypt achieve economic and security‐related stability without first achieving some sort of political and civil control? While many regional and international actors seem convinced that it can be done, this essay argues that stability in post‐revolution Egypt is only possible by empowering civilian and political actors in cooperation with military and security establishments. Based on an analysis of Egyptian civil security relations, it shall be shown that the prioritising of economic and security sector solutions over political reforms has led to a dysfunctional system and a vicious cycle of political violence, economic hardships and security failures. In consideration of ways forward, the essays end with policy recommendations for the EU and other international actors in their approach towards Egypt.
The Limits of Global Economic Governance after the 2007–09 International Financial Crisis
Authors: Boughton James M. , Lombardi Domenico , Malkin Anton
Published: June 2017

The economic and financial crisis of 2007–09 uncovered serious deficiencies in the oversight of the global economy, some of which came to light quickly and induced a concerted response by national authorities and multilateral institutions. Foremost among them was the need for appropriate regulation of financial institutions and oversight of derivative financial instruments. In this area, the G20 led a response that is still underway. Meanwhile, new regional entities emerged to challenge the existing multilateral order built around the IMF, the World Bank and the WTO – a development that has prompted further attempts to reform the current framework, including the creation of new institutions. These responses, however, have left major gaps in global financial governance. We argue that these gaps include: the balkanisation of oversight over global capital flows and current account imbalances; inadequate international burden sharing and policy coordination in response to financial crises; and a persistent inability of global institutions and national governments to ensure that the gains and losses from financial globalisation are equitably distributed across and within countries. Looking forward, the G20 and relevant multilateral institutions need to broaden the agenda to ensure that economic growth can become more resilient to shocks, more generally shared across economies, and more inclusive within countries.
Brittle China? Economic and Political Fragility with Global Implications
Authors: Krolikowski Alanna
Published: June 2017

Once regarded as an unstoppable giant and stalwart of the global economy, China today shows signs of economic and political fragility. The interrelated risks of an abrupt economic slowdown, a collapse of the financial system, and political instability in China are now apparent, warn international observers. In spite of these risks, or perhaps because of them, Chinese foreign policy is at its most assertive and activist in decades. A China that is bold, but brittle, presents significant new foreign policy challenges for European countries. To navigate these successfully, European states must develop a coherent and proactive strategy in recognition of both circumstances. This article discusses the state of recent international scholarship and controversy on China's domestic political economy and global engagement. The discussion relates a wave of recent attention to China's mounting domestic economic and political vulnerabilities and points to implications of these developments for China's ambitions to play a leading role in the international system beyond its immediate region.
Treatment of peritoneal carcinomatosis with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy in colorectal cancer
Authors: Behrenbruch Corina , Hollande Frédéric , Thomson Benjamin , Michael Michael , Warrier Satish K. , Lynch Craig , Heriot Alexander
Published: June 2017

The peritoneum is the second most common site of metastasis after the liver and the only site of metastatic disease in approximately 25% of patients with colorectal cancer (CRC). In the past, peritoneal carcinomatosis in CRC was thought to be equivalent to distant metastasis; however, the transcoelomic spread of malignant cells is an acknowledged alternative pathway. Metastasectomy with curative intent is well accepted in patients with liver metastasis in CRC despite the paucity of randomized trials. Therefore, there is rationale for local treatment with peritonectomy to eliminate macroscopic disease, followed by hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy to destroy any residual free tumour cells within the peritoneal cavity. The aim of this paper is to summarize the current evidence for cytoreduction and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy in the treatment of peritoneal carcinomatosis in CRC.
Unwarranted claims of drug efficacy in pharmaceutical sales visits: are drugs approved on the basis of surrogate outcomes promoted appropriately?
Authors: Habibi Roojin , Lexchin Joel , Mintzes Barbara , Holbrook Anne
Published: June 2017

Aims

This study compares physicians' recall of the claims of benefits on cardiovascular disease and diabetes made by pharmaceutical sales representatives for drugs approved on the basis of a surrogate outcome, i.e., an off‐label claim, compared with those approved on the basis of a serious morbidity or mortality (clinical) outcome.

Methods

Physicians in primary care practices in Montreal, Vancouver, Sacramento and Toulouse, who saw sales representatives as part of their usual practice and served a non‐referral population, were contacted in blocks of 25 from a randomized list of all physicians practising in the relevant metropolitan area. We compared how frequently physicians reported that sales reps made claims of serious morbidity or mortality (clinically meaningful) benefits for drugs approved on the basis of surrogate outcomes vs. drugs approved on the basis of clinical outcomes.

Results

There were 448 promotions for 58 unique brand name cardiovascular and diabetes drugs. Claims of clinically meaningful benefit were reported in 156 (45%) of the 347 promotions for surrogate outcome drugs, constituting unwarranted efficacy claims, i.e., off‐label promotion. Claims of clinical benefit were reported in 72 of the 101 promotions (71%) for drugs approved on the basis of clinical outcomes, adjusted OR = 0.3 (95% CI 0.2, 0.6), P < 0.001.

Conclusions

Claims of efficacy made in sales visit promotions for drugs approved only on the basis of surrogate outcomes extended beyond the regulator‐approved efficacy information for the product in almost half of promotions. Unapproved claims of drug efficacy constitute a form of off‐label promotion and merit greater attention from regulators.
Cross‐sectional association of coffee and caffeine consumption with sex hormone‐binding globulin in healthy nondiabetic women
Authors: Pihan‐Le Bars Florence , Gusto Gaëlle , Boutron‐Ruault Marie‐Christine , Fagherazzi Guy , Bonnet Fabrice
Published: June 2017

Objective

Low sex hormone‐binding globulin (SHBG) is a consistent risk factor for type 2 diabetes, particularly in women. Coffee consumption has been associated with a lower risk of type 2 diabetes, but its effects on SHBG are less known.

Design and methods

This was a cross‐sectional study of 2377 nondiabetic pre‐ and postmenopausal women from the E3N cohort study whose baseline SHBG was measured. Information on diet (including coffee and caffeine consumption), lifestyle and medical conditions was collected through questionnaires. The relationship between coffee and caffeine consumption and SHBG was modelled, with adjustment for covariates and stratification by body mass index (BMI) categories (< or ≥25 kg/m2) and menopausal status.

Results

The mean age was 57.2±6.4 years and 61% of the 2377 women were postmenopausal. High coffee (≥3 cups/day) and caffeine (≥265 mg/day) intakes were associated with a reduced risk of being in the 1st quartile of the SHBG level distribution (<46.3 nmol/L) in a multivariate adjusted model (OR: 0.72 [95% CI: 0.52‐1.01] and OR: 0.71 [95% CI: 0.53–0.95], respectively). No association was found between tea consumption and SHBG levels. In multivariate models stratified on BMI categories and menopausal status, associations were restricted to women with a BMI ≥25 kg/m2 or being postmenopausal. The association with SHBG was consistently noted with consumption of both caffeinated coffee and caffeine, but not decaffeinated coffee.

Conclusions

Consumption of high coffee and caffeine is associated with a reduced risk of low SHBG, an established risk marker for T2DM, which might contribute to the protective effects of coffee for type 2 diabetes.
Effect of fatigue loading on the fracture strength and failure mode of lithium disilicate and zirconia implant abutments
Authors: Elsayed Adham , Wille Sebastian , Al‐Akhali Majed , Kern Matthias
Published: June 2017

Objective

The aim of this study was to test five types of implant restorations using titanium, zirconia and lithium disilicate abutments after being subjected to long‐term fatigue loading.

Materials and methods

Forty single‐tooth implant restorations were assembled on titanium implants (FairTwo; FairImplant). The restorations differed only in the type of abutment used and were divided into five groups [Ti: titanium; Zr: zirconia with no metal base; ZrT: zirconia with titanium base; LaT: lithium disilicate abutment with titanium base; and LcT: lithium disilicate hybrid‐abutment–crown with titanium base]. Specimens were subjected to dynamic load of 49 N up to 1,200,000 cycles using a dual‐axis chewing simulator (Kausimulator; Willytech). The surviving specimens were subjected to quasi‐static loading using a universal testing machine (Z010; Zwick) until the implant–abutment connection failed. The values of force (N) at which fracture or plastic deformation of the restoration occurred were calculated and the rate of deformation was analyzed. The data was then analyzed using Mann–Whitney tests.

Results

Groups Ti, ZrT, LaT and LcT withstood 1,200,000 fatigue load cycles and higher forces than physiological occlusal forces without fracture or debonding of the ceramic suprastructure. In group Zr, some specimen did not survive the chewing simulation and this group showed the lowest resistance to failure with a median of 198 N.

Conclusions

Within the limitations of this study, it could be concluded that lithium disilicate abutments and hybrid‐abutment–crowns show promising durability and strength after long‐term dynamic loading. The use of titanium base enhances the strength of the zirconia abutments.
Rapid screening for malignancy in organ donors: 15‐year experience with the Verona “Alert” protocol and review of the literature
Authors: Eccher Albino , Cima Luca , Ciangherotti Andrea , Montin Umberto , Violi Paola , Carraro Amedeo , Tedeschi Umberto , Nacchia Francesco , Fior Francesca , Rostand Momo , Boschiero Luigino , D'Errico Antonietta , Scarpa Aldo , Casartelli‐Liviero Marilena , Ferrari Giuseppe , Rodini Viviana , Tomaselli Elisabetta , Zampicinini Laura , Vanzo Francesca , Bovo Chiara , Feltrin Giuseppe , Neil Desley , Brunelli Matteo
Published: June 2017

Background

Prevention of transmission of malignancy from donors to recipients is an aim of donor assessment. We report the most stringent interpretation of the Italian National Guidelines.

Methods

A two‐step ALERT process was used: ALERT1 consisting of clinical, radiological, and laboratory tests; ALERT2, consisting of intraoperative assessment in suspicious lesions.

Results

Four hundred of 506 potential deceased donors entered the ALERT system. Forty‐one of 400 (10%) donors were excluded due to unacceptable risk of transmission. Of the remaining 359 193 required histopathology, which excluded malignancy or determined acceptable risk in 161/193 (83%). Thirty‐five malignancies were identified: 19 (54%) at ALERT1, four (11%) at ALERT2, nine (26%) picked up at ALERT1 and confirmed by ALERT2. Three (9%) were missed by ALERT and diagnosed at postmortem examination. Prostate (n=12%, 34%) and renal cell (n=7%, 20%) were the most frequent carcinomas. The majority (92%) of prostate adenocarcinomas were of low risk and donation proceeded compared to 43% of renal carcinomas. Four renal carcinomas, two breast carcinomas, and a single case of nine different malignancies excluded donation.

Positive ALERT donors had statistically more malignant reports than negative ALERT donors (P=<.05).

Conclusion

Histopathology is an essential component of the multidisciplinary assessment of donors.
Chemogenetic inhibition reveals midline thalamic nuclei and thalamo‐accumbens projections mediate cocaine‐seeking in rats
Authors: Wunsch Amanda M. , Yager Lindsay M. , Donckels Elizabeth A. , Le Calvin T. , Neumaier John F. , Ferguson Susan M.
Published: June 2017

Drug addiction is a chronic disease that is shaped by alterations in neuronal function within the cortical–basal ganglia‐thalamic circuit. However, our understanding of how this circuit regulates drug‐seeking remains incomplete, and relapse rates remain high. The midline thalamic nuclei are an integral component of the cortical–basal ganglia‐thalamic circuit and are poised to mediate addiction behaviors, including relapse. It is surprising that little research has examined the contribution of midline thalamic nuclei and their efferent projections in relapse. To address this, we expressed inhibitory, Gi/o‐coupled DREADDs (Designer Receptors Exclusively Activated by Designer Drugs) in a subset of the midline thalamic nuclei or in midline thalamic nuclei neurons projecting to either the nucleus accumbens or the amygdala. We examined the effect of transiently decreasing activity of these neuronal populations on cue‐induced and cocaine‐primed reinstatement of cocaine‐seeking. Reducing activity of midline thalamic nuclei neurons attenuated both cue‐induced and cocaine‐primed reinstatement, but had no effect on cue‐induced reinstatement of sucrose‐seeking or locomotor activity. Interestingly, attenuating activity of efferent projections from the anterior portion of midline thalamic nuclei to the nucleus accumbens blocked cocaine‐primed reinstatement but enhanced cue‐induced reinstatement. Decreasing activity of efferent projections from either the posterior midline thalamic nuclei to the nucleus accumbens or the midline thalamic nuclei to amygdala had no effect. These results reveal a novel contribution of subsets of midline thalamic nuclei neurons in drug‐seeking behaviors and suggest that modulation of midline thalamic nuclei activity may be a promising therapeutic target for preventing relapse.
Human papillomavirus‐related carcinoma with adenoid cystic‐like features: a series of five cases expanding the pathological spectrum
Authors: Hang Jen‐Fan , Hsieh Min‐Shu , Li Wing‐Yin , Chen Jo‐Yu , Lin Shih‐Yao , Liu Shih‐Hao , Pan Chin‐Chen , Kuo Ying‐Ju
Published: June 2017

Aims

Human papillomavirus (HPV)‐related carcinoma with adenoid cystic‐like features is a newly described entity of the sinonasal tract. In this study, we evaluated histomorphology, immunophenotype and molecular testing to identify potentially helpful features in distinguishing it from classic adenoid cystic carcinoma (AdCC).

Methods and results

We retrospectively collected five HPV‐related carcinomas with adenoid cystic‐like features and 14 AdCCs of the sinonasal tract. All histological slides were retrieved for morphological evaluation. As comparing with AdCC, HPV‐related carcinomas with adenoid cystic‐like features were associated with squamous dysplasia of surface epithelium (80% versus 0%, P < 0.01) and the presence of a solid growth pattern (100% versus 29%, P = 0.01), but less densely hyalinized tumour stroma (20% versus 86%, P = 0.02). Squamous differentiation in the invasive tumour was seen in three HPV‐related carcinomas with adenoid cystic‐like features, two of them showing abrupt keratinization and one with scattered non‐keratinizing squamous nests. Diffuse p16 staining in ≥75% of tumour cells was noted in all HPV‐related carcinomas with adenoid cystic‐like features but in only one AdCC (100% versus 7%, P < 0.01). High‐risk HPV testing gave positive results in all HPV‐related carcinomas with adenoid cystic‐like features (four associated with type 33 and one associated with type 16) but not in AdCCs. MYB rearrangement was tested in four HPV‐related carcinomas with adenoid cystic‐like features, and all were negative.

Conclusions

This study has further clarified the histological spectrum of this tumour type, and reports the first HPV type 16‐related case. Diffuse p16 staining followed by HPV molecular testing is useful in distinguishing HPV‐related carcinomas with adenoid cystic features from classic AdCCs.
Microguided Endodontics: a method to achieve minimally invasive access cavity preparation and root canal location in mandibular incisors using a novel computer‐guided technique
Authors: Connert T. , Zehnder M. S. , Amato M. , Weiger R. , Kühl S. , Krastl G.
Published: June 2017

Aim

To present a novel miniaturized and minimally invasive treatment approach for root canal localization in mandibular incisors with pulp canal calcification and apical periodontitis.

A 51‐year‐old male patient presented with pain from his mandibular incisors. The patient had a history of severe dental trauma over 30 years ago. Both mandibular central incisors (teeth 31, 41) were tender to percussion and had a yellowish discoloration. They did not respond to thermal and electrical sensitivity tests. Two periapical radiographs from different projections revealed severe pulp canal calcifications and signs of periapical periodontitis. To facilitate the ‘Microguided Endodontics’ technique, a CBCT and an intra‐oral surface scan were aligned using special software. This allowed the virtual planning of optimal access cavities up to the apical third of the root. In this technique, a 3D‐printed template guides a customized drill to the orifice of the root canal. After negotiation of the root canals, conventional root canal treatment was performed. This case report demonstrates that minimally invasive and apically extended access cavities are feasible in mandibular incisors with this technique.

Key learning points

The ‘Microguided Endodontics’ technique is a safe and minimally invasive method for root canal location and prevention of technical failures in anterior teeth with pulp canal calcification.