bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predictive olfactory learning in Drosophila
Authors: Zhao Chang , Widmer Yves F. , Diegelmann Soeren , Petrovici Mihai A. , Sprecher Simon G. , Senn Walter
Published: December 2019

Olfactory learning and conditioning in the fruit fly is typically modelled by correlation-based associative synaptic plasticity. It was shown that the conditioning of an odor-evoked response by a shock depends on the connections from Kenyon cells (KC) to mushroom body output neurons (MBONs). Although on the behavioral level conditioning is recognized to be predictive, it remains unclear how MBONs form predictions of aversive or appetitive values (valences) of odors on the circuit level. We present behavioral experiments that are not well explained by associative plasticity between conditioned and unconditioned stimuli, and we suggest two alternative models for how predictions can be formed. In error-driven predictive plasticity, dopaminergic neurons (DANs) represent the error between the predictive odor value and the shock strength. In target-driven predictive plasticity, the DANs represent the target for the predictive MBON activity. Predictive plasticity in KC-to-MBON synapses can also explain trace-conditioning, the valence-dependent sign switch in plasticity, and the observed novelty-familiarity representation. The model offers a framework to dissect MBON circuits and interpret DAN activity during olfactory learning.
Tracking niche change through time: simultaneous inference of ecological niche evolution and estimation of contemporary niches
Authors: Hua Xia , Cardillo Marcel , Bromham Lindell
Published: December 2019

The ecological niche of species is often studied from two different perspectives. Environmental niche modelling (ENM) infers a species’ current niche from contemporary occurrence records, while phylogenetic comparative methods (PCM) infer the history of niche evolution. Although these two areas of research are conceptually linked, they are analysed independently, within separate analytical frameworks.

Here we provide a new method, NEMo (Niche Evolution Model), for simultaneous inference of niche evolution and estimation of contemporary niches of species. NEMo explicitly models three fundamental processes of niche evolution – adaptation, speciation, and dispersal – applying a reversible jump algorithm to infer occurrences of these processes on a phylogeny. The model permits ENMs to account for the role of history in shaping current species distributions, and offers more realistic models of evolution in PCMs.

Simulations show that NEMo has high accuracy for estimating the ecological niche of species, and reasonable power to identify the occurrences of the three processes on phylogeny. When applied to a real case study (the Australian plant genusAcacia), the method is more effective at predicting a key environmental niche axis (salt tolerance) than using ENM alone, and it infers temporal patterns in the evolution of drought tolerance in response to aridification that are consistent with prior expectations

NEMo makes it possible to combine many types of data to study niche evolution and estimate species niches, not only species distributions and phylogeny, but also paleoclimate, species tolerance range, and fossil records.
RhoC modulates metabolic networks in cervical cancer by transcriptionally regulating the expression of genes involved in metabolism
Authors: Thomas Pavana , Bhavani Chandra , Srivastava Sweta
Published: December 2019

In their quest for autonomy, tumor cells are known to reroute metabolic networks to aid their proliferation and survival. These metabolic alterations are governed by the tumor sub-population, thereby contributing towards an additional layer of complexity within the already heterogeneous tumor. For instance, bulk proliferative tumor cells rely on completely different pathways for their metabolic requirements as opposed to the stem-like metastatic cells. However, the molecular switch that drives these metabolic changes remains unknown. RhoC is a well-established contributor towards multiple aspects of tumor development including proliferation, EMT, migration, invasion and metastasis. A transcriptomics-based approach on a RhoC overexpressing cervical cancer cell line unveiled distinct metabolic signatures existent in these cells. Oxidative phosphorylation, TCA cycle, nucleic acid metabolism and fatty acid elongation were some of the specific pathways that emerged as up-regulated. This study therefore provides insight into the intricate metabolic circuitry functional in aggressive RhoC-high cells and thus proposes a pivotal role for RhoC in oncometabolism.
Protein-free division of giant unilamellar vesicles controlled by enzymatic activity
Authors: Dreher Yannik , Spatz Joachim P. , Göpfrich Kerstin
Published: December 2019

Cell division is one of the hallmarks of life. Success in the bottom-up assembly of synthetic cells will, no doubt, depend on strategies for the controlled autonomous division of protocellular compartments. Here, we describe the protein-free division of giant unilamellar lipid vesicles (GUVs) based on the combination of two physical principles – phase separation and osmosis. We visualize the division process with confocal fluorescence microscopy and derive a conceptual model based on the vesicle geometry. The model successfully predicts the shape transformations over time as well as the time point of the final pinching of the daughter vesicles. Remarkably, we show that two fundamentally distinct yet highly abundant processes – water evaporation and metabolic activity – can both regulate the autonomous division of GUVs. Our work may hint towards mechanisms that governed the division of protocells and adds to the strategic toolbox of bottom-up synthetic biology with its vision of bringing matter to life.
Anti-inflammatory properties of chemical probes in human whole blood: focus on prostaglandin E2production
Authors: Bergqvist Filip , Sundström Yvonne , Shang Mingmei , Gunnarsson Iva , Lundberg Ingrid , Sundström Michael , Jakobsson Per-Johan , Berg Louise
Published: December 2019

We screened 57 chemical probes, high-quality tool compounds, and relevant clinically used drugs to investigate their effect on pro-inflammatory prostaglandin E2(PGE2) production and interleukin-8 (IL-8) secretion in human whole blood. Freshly drawn blood from healthy volunteers and patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) or dermatomyositis was incubated with compounds at 0.1 or 1 μM and treated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS, 10 μg/mL) to induce a pro-inflammatory condition. Plasma was collected after 24 hours for lipid profiling using liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) and IL-8 quantification using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Each compound was tested in at least four donors at one concentration based on prior knowledge of binding affinities andin vitroactivity. Our screening suggested that PD0325901 (MEK-1/2 inhibitor), trametinib (MEK-1/2 inhibitor), and selumetinib (MEK-1 inhibitor) decreased while tofacitinib (JAK inhibitor) increased PGE2production. These findings were validated by concentration-response experiment in two donors. Moreover, the tested MEK inhibitors decreased thromboxane B2(TXB2) production and IL-8 secretion. We also investigated the lysophophatidylcholine (LPC) profile in plasma from treated whole blood as these lipids are potentially important mediators in inflammation, and we did not observe any changes in LPC profiles. Collectively, we deployed a semi-high throughput and robust methodology to investigate anti-inflammatory properties of new chemical probes.

Highlights

Inhibitors for MEK decreased PGE2and TXB2production

Inhibitors for MEK and ERK decreased IL-8 secretion

JAK inhibitor tofacitinib increased PGE2and TXB2production
FGFR/Heartless and Smog interact synergistically to negatively regulate Fog mediated GPCR signaling
Authors: Shweta Kumari , Basargekar Anagha , Ratnaparkhi Anuradha
Published: December 2019

G-protein coupled receptor (GPCR) signaling triggered by Folded gastrulation (Fog) is one of the pathways known to regulate glial organization and morphogenesis in the embryonic CNS inDrosophila. Fog is best known for its role in epithelial morphogenesis during gastrulation. Here, the signaling pathway includes GPCRs Mist and Smog and the G-Protein Concertina (Cta) which activate downstream effectors to bring about cytoskeletal changes essential for cell shape change

In this study, we identify molecular players that mediate and serve as important regulators of Fog signaling in the embryonic CNS. We find that while Cta is essential for Fog signaling neither receptors, Mist nor Smog mediates signaling in the CNS. On the contrary, we find that Smog functions as a negative regulator of the pathway. Surprisingly,Heartlesswhich encodes a fibroblast growth factor receptor, also functions as a negative regulator of Fog signaling. Further, we find that bothheartlessandsmoginteract in a synergistic manner to regulate Fog signaling.

This study thus identifies novel regulators of Fog signaling that may play an important role in fine-tuning the pathway to control cell morphogenesis. It also suggests the likelihood of there being multiple receptors for Fog that mediate and regulate signaling in a context specific manner.

Author Summary

InDrosophila, Folded gastrulation (Fog) functions as ligand that signals via GPCRs to regulate cell shape during gastrulation -one of the earliest events in embryogenesis. Here, Fog signals via receptors Mist and Smog to activate the G-protein Concertina to elicit change in cell shape. In the embryonic central nervous system (CNS) this pathway regulates shape and organization of glia important for functions such as insulation of neurons and synapses.

The mechanism of Fog signal transduction in the CNS and its regulation is not well understood. We have sought to address these questions in our study. We find that Concertina is an essential factor for Fog signaling in the CNS but interestingly Mist is not. In contrast, Smog functions as a negative regulator such that loss of Smog enhances Fog signaling. A similar role is played by the receptor tyrosine kinase-Heartless. Interestingly, we find that Smog and Heartless interact as part of a common genetic network to regulate Fog signaling. Our results thus provide novel insights into the regulation of Fog signaling and shed light on how signaling can be fine-tuned in a context dependent manner to control cell shape change which plays a critical role during development and organ formation.
Six sigma approach for neonatal jaundice patients in an Indian rural hospital – a case study
Authors: Prajapati Deoraj , Suman Gaurav
Published: December 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to implement Six Sigma approach to decrease the length of stay (LOS) of neonatal jaundice patients in an Indian government rural hospital situated in northern hill region.

Design/methodology/approach

Six Sigma’s Define–Measure–Analyse–Improve–Control procedure is applied in order to decrease the LOS of neonatal jaundice patients. The mean and standard deviation have been computed as 34.53 and 20.01 h, respectively. The cause and effect diagram is used in the “Analyse” phase of the Six Sigma. The regression analysis and GEMBA observation techniques are used to validate the causes identified through cause and effect diagram.

Findings

The waiting time for registration, waiting time for tests, waiting time for phototherapy and time for discharge implementation are the main factors that are responsible for longer LOS. Based on the identified root causes, some recommendations are suggested to the hospital administration and staff members in order to reduce the LOS.

Research limitations/implications

The present research is limited to provide recommendations to the hospital administration to reduce LOS and it entirely depends upon the implementation of the administration. However, target of administration is to reduce the LOS up to 24 h.

Practical implications

Six Sigma model will reduce bottlenecks in LOS and enhance service quality of hospital. The developed regression model will help the doctors and staff members to assess and control the LOS by controlling and minimising the independent variables.

Social implications

The project will directly provide benefits to society, as LOS will decrease and patients’ satisfaction will automatically increase.

Originality/value

Six Sigma is a developed methodology, but its application in paediatric department is very limited. This is the first ever study of applying Six Sigma for neonatal jaundice patients in India.
Impact of caregiver overnight stay on postoperative outcomes
Authors: Griffin Susan , McGrath Leigh , Chesnut Gregory T. , Benfante Nicole , Assel Melissa , Ostrovsky Aaron , Levine Marcia , Vickers Andrew , Simon Brett , Laudone Vincent
Published: December 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to determine the impact of having a patient-designated caregiver remain overnight with ambulatory extended recovery patients on early postoperative clinical outcomes.

Design/methodology/approach

This was a retrospective cohort study of patients undergoing surgery requiring overnight stay in a highly resourced free-standing oncology ambulatory surgery center. Postoperative outcomes in patients who had caregivers stay with them overnight were compared with outcomes in those who did not. All other care was standardized. Primary outcomes were postoperative length of stay, hospital readmission rates, urgent care center (UCC) visits within 30 days and perioperative complication rates.

Findings

Among patients staying overnight, 2,462 (57 percent) were accompanied by overnight caregivers. In this group, time to discharge was significantly lower. Readmissions (though rare) were slightly higher, though the difference was not statistically significant (p=0.059). No difference in early (<30 day) complications or UCC visits was noted. Presence of a caregiver overnight was not associated with important differences in outcomes, though further research in a less well-structured environment is likely to show a more robust benefit. Caregivers are still recommended to stay overnight if that is their preference as no harm was identified.

Originality/value

This study is unique in its evaluation of the clinical impact of having a caregiver stay overnight with ambulatory surgery patients. Little research has focused on the direct impact of the caregiver on patient outcomes, especially in the ambulatory setting. With increased adoption of minimally invasive surgical techniques and enhanced recovery pathways, a larger number of patients are eligible for short-stay ambulatory surgery. Factors that impact discharge and early postoperative complications are important.
Online learning for social justice and inclusion
Authors: Montelongo Ricardo , Eaton Paul William
Published: December 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the online pedagogical practices and technological tools that influenced the attainment of skills and knowledge associated with professional multicultural competence in a graduate student online course focused on social justice and inclusion.

Design/methodology/approach

This qualitative case study includes a total of ten student participants. Two theoretical orientations guide the study. Mishra and Koehler’s (2006) model of technological pedagogical content knowledge is provided to understand the reciprocal relationship between content, pedagogy, knowledge and technology in online learning environments. Critical digital pedagogy (Morris and Stommel, 2018) provides insights into challenging the neutrality of technological tools and focuses on relational capacities of online learning environments. Initial coding by each researcher was reduced to thematic codes focused on technological tools, course content delivery, asynchronous and synchronous pedagogical strategies.

Findings

Data analysis revealed technological tools such as discussion boards, video, video conferencing and synchronous opportunities influence student engagement and learning. Further, findings reveal that the nature of online education itself – specifically asynchronocity – functions as both a distraction and possibility for online learning in multicultural education courses. Students in this study revealed the value of opportunities to engage synchronously in online learning environments. Instruction without such opportunities was disadvantageous to the learning of skills and knowledge associated with multicultural competence.

Research limitations/implications

The study is not generalizable to the experiences of all online students and only provides a small cross-section of online graduate students enrolled in a required diversity course at one institution.

Originality/value

There is a dearth of research focused on teaching courses in diversity, equity, social justice and inclusion in fully online environments, a gap this study begins to fill. The study also enhances the authors’ understanding of graduate student education.
Inter-organizational cooperation in automotive new product development projects
Authors: Zheng Yujuan , Liu Shan , Huang (Wayne) Wei , Jiang James Jiunn-Yih
Published: December 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to formulate and test a theoretical model to explain inter-organizational cooperation behaviors among suppliers in automotive new product development (NPD) projects. This study aims to investigate the effects of cost and benefit factors on trust and inter-organizational cooperative behaviors among suppliers in automotive NPD projects from the perspective of social exchange theory (SET).

Design/methodology/approach

The structural equation modeling method is applied to test the proposed model, which is based on the analysis of survey data from 272 product managers of automotive part suppliers.

Findings

Knowledge sharing and coordination effort influence inter-organizational cooperation indirectly through trust. Specially, trust is negatively influenced by coordination effort but positively affected by knowledge sharing. Requirement uncertainty moderates the relationship between cost–benefit factors and trust differently. Specifically, requirement uncertainty increases the negative influence of coordination effort on trust but also strengthens the positive effect of knowledge sharing on trust.

Originality/value

This study provides a relatively comprehensive cost–benefit framework for further understanding the formation mechanism of inter-organizational cooperation among suppliers. It also contributes to SET by incorporating the contextual factor to explain the moderating effect of requirement uncertainty on the relationships between cost–benefit factors and trust in the context of automotive NPD projects.
A scan to as-built building information modeling workflow: a case study in Malaysia
Authors: Usmani Abdul Rahman Ahsan , Elshafey Abdalrahman , Gheisari Masoud , Chai Changsaar , Aminudin Eeydzah Binti , Tan Cher Siang
Published: December 2019

Purpose

Three dimensional (3 D) laser scanner surveying is widely used in many fields, such as agriculture, mining and heritage documentation and can be of great benefit for as-built documentation in construction and facility management domains. However, there is lack of applied research and use cases integrating 3 D laser scanner surveying with building information modeling (BIM) for existing facilities in Malaysia. This study aims to develop a scan to as-built BIM workflow to use 3 D laser scanner surveying and create as-built building information models of an existing complex facility in Malaysia.

Design/methodology/approach

A case study approach was followed to develop a scan to as-built BIM workflow through four main steps: 3 D laser scanning, data preprocessing, data registration and building information modeling.

Findings

This case study proposes a comprehensive scan to as-built BIM workflow which illustrates all the required steps to create a precise 3 D as-built building information model from scans. This workflow was successfully implemented to the Eco-Home facility at the Universiti Teknologi Malaysia.

Originality/value

Scan to as-built BIM is a digital alternative to manual and tedious process of documentation of as-built condition of a facility and provides a detail process using laser scans to create as-built building information models of facilities.
Investigation of accurate location planning for wind farm establishment: a case study
Authors: Mostafaeipour Ali , Sadeghi Sajjad , Jahangiri Mehdi , Nematollahi Omid , Rezaeian Sabbagh Ali
Published: December 2019

Purpose

Wind as a major source of renewable energy has received tremendous attentions due to its unique features to reduce carbon emission and also to keep the environment safe. Nevertheless, to use wind energy properly, the environmental circumstances and geographical location related to wind intensity should be considered as a priority. Different factors may affect the selection of a suitable location for developments of wind power plants; thus, these factors should be considered concurrently to identify the optimum location of wind plants.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, first, basic data envelopment analysis (DEA) was used, then dual DEA was used and, finally, Anderson Petersen (AP) model of dual DEA was selected to prioritize cities or decision-making units (DMUs). Numerical Taxonomy (NT) method was also used to assess the validity of AP dual model in DEA. The prescribed approach was applied for five cities in East Azerbaijan province of Iran.

Findings

The results indicate that wind power as a renewable energy can be harnessed in few cities, and the ranking by DEA illustrated that the city of Tabriz is the first priority.

Practical implications

Low environmental degradation effects in comparison to other methods and the ability to utilization at a widespread level include the benefits of using wind energy in the generation of electricity. In this regard, the study of relevant potentials and finding suitable locations for the deployment of wind energy utilization equipment are essential. Using DEA method helps us to choose optimal locations according to different criteria.

Social implications

Wind energy is justifiable in reducing social costs in comparison with fossil fuel plants, which includes negative effects, and its electricity can be used as a sustainable energy in the country's economic, social and cultural development.

Originality/value

For identifying the most proper location for development of wind power plants in Iran, DEA is applied for the first time to prioritize the suitable locations for installations of wind turbines among five different cities in the East Azerbaijan region. A number of crucial factors including land price, distance to power, rate of natural hazards, wind speed and topography are considered for location optimization of wind turbines for the first time. Also, to validate the results of DEA method, NT method is used to assess the validity of AP dual model in DEA.
Succession planning and performance of family-owned small and medium enterprises in Arusha City – Tanzania
Authors: Kiwia Rose Haynes , Bengesi Kenneth M.K. , Ndyetabula Daniel W.
Published: December 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine succession planning and performance of family-owned small and medium enterprises (SMEs).

Design/methodology/approach

The quantitative research approach and a cross-sectional research design were employed. The probability sampling technique was used to draw 219 respondents from the sampling frame. A structured questionnaire was used for data collection. Descriptive statistics and independent samples t-tests were used for data analysis.

Findings

It was revealed that most of family-owned SMEs founders in the study area had mechanisms for succession planning for their businesses. Also, there is a difference in business performance when successors are selected and prepared by business founders compared to when they are selected and prepared by other family members. Successors selected and prepared by business founders performed better in business than successors who were selected and prepared by other family members.

Research limitations/implications

This study employed a quantitative research paradigm methodology, which limits deep discussion with respondents. Future studies could consider using a qualitative research paradigm methodology.

Originality/value

The paper presents succession planning process experience in family-owned SMEs in the study area, specifically the existence of succession planning in family-owned SMEs. It also shows a difference in business performance between the two investigated groups. This paper will benefit business founders, family business successors and researchers.
Collaborations: providing emotional support to senior leaders
Authors: Solvason Carla , Kington Alison
Published: December 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper, based upon research carried out between a university and a Local Authority (LA) in the Midlands, UK, is to explore the phenomenon of head teachers working collaboratively across clusters of primary schools, or inter-collaboration.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative case study approach was taken and the data collection methods co-constructed with the participants.

Findings

The head teachers were eager to share what they perceived as an overwhelmingly positive collaborative experience. The findings in this paper illustrate perhaps the most significant discovery, i.e. the role that the collaborative clusters can play in offering emotional support to those head teachers involved.

Research limitations/implications

This research was based within a specific LA, so the findings reflect the values manifested there. Quite different results may have been discovered in alternative contexts.

Originality/value

The personal, social and emotional needs of leaders are often overlooked in research whilst focussing upon the support that they offer to others. This paper explores the solitary role that headship can be and the function that supportive, collaborative clusters can provide in filling that emotional void.
Blended learning: how to flip the classroom at HEIs in Bangladesh?
Authors: Chowdhury Faieza
Published: December 2019

Purpose

E-learning is a very popular concept in the education sector today, and one of the best ways to implement this is through blended learning. However, the implementation of blended learning program at Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) is quite new in Bangladesh. The purpose of this paper is to explore the concept of blended learning, how to construct a blended learning program, the benefits of blended learning and some prerequisites to implement blended learning program successfully at HEIs in Bangladesh.

Design/methodology/approach

Nature of the study is explanatory, descriptive as well as evaluative. Primary data were collected through face-to-face interviews using structured questionnaire having both open- and close-ended questions including personal observations. Secondary data comprise relevant documents available from government agencies, archives, and library and research organizations.

Findings

By utilizing the blended learning tools, HEIs in Bangladesh can achieve radical improvements in education quality as well as in the accessibility and cost-effectiveness of learning programs. Moreover, any innovative educational reform will be successful only when it is fully accepted and adopted by all the key stakeholders: students, parents, teachers, academic administrators, researchers and policy makers.

Practical implications

Several practical solutions have been presented in this paper: how to create a blended learning program, how to overcome the obstacles for successful implementation of blended learning and how to create a flipped classroom with the aid of technology.

Social implications

A country’s soul and economic well-being depends to a large extent on the quality of their citizen’s education. Implementing innovative teaching programs within the education system will enhance the quality of education at HEIs in Bangladesh, creating more efficient labor force hence benefiting the overall society.

Originality/value

Originality in terms of exposing the hurdles that needs to be addressed for successful implementation of blended learning programs at HEIs in Bangladesh and providing an easy guideline to educators on how to create flipped classrooms.
How do altmetric sources evaluate scientific collaboration? An empirical investigation for Chinese collaboration publications
Authors: Wang Xiaoguang , Lv Tao , Hamerly Donald
Published: December 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide insights on the improvement of academic impact and social attention of Chinese collaboration articles from the perspective of altmetrics.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors retrieved articles which are from the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) and indexed by Nature Index as sampled articles. With the methods of distribution analysis, comparative analysis and correlation analysis, authors compare the coverage differences of altmetric sources for CAS Chinese articles and CAS international articles, and analyze the correlation between the collaborative information and the altmetric indicators.

Findings

Results show that the coverage of altmetric sources for CAS international articles is greater than that for CAS Chinese articles. Mendeley and Twitter cover a higher percentage of collaborative articles than other sources studied. Collaborative information, such as number of collaborating countries, number of collaborating institutions, and number of collaborating authors, show moderate or low correlation with altmetric indicator counts. Mendeley readership has a moderate correlation with altmetric indicators like tweets, news outlets and blog posts.

Practical implications

International scientific collaboration at different levels improves attention, academic impact and social impact of articles. International collaboration and altmetrics indicators supplement each other. The results of this study can help us better understand the relationship between altmetrics indicators of articles and collaborative information of articles. It is of great significance to evaluate the influence of Chinese articles, as well as help to improve the academic impact and social attention of Chinese collaboration articles.

Originality/value

To the best of authors’ knowledge, few studies focus on the use of altmetrics to assess publications produced through Chinese academic collaboration. This study is one of a few attempts that include the number of collaborating countries, number of collaborating institutions, and number of collaborating authors of scientific collaboration into the discussion of altmetric indicators and figured out the relationship among them.
Quality assurance and the classification of universities: the case of Chile
Authors: López Daniel A. , Rojas Maria J. , López Boris A. , Espinoza Oscar
Published: December 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to analyze the relationship between quality assurance, the traditionala prioriapproach, and a more recently developed empirical classification of universities, as a means of assessing whether the different classification systems fulfill their original purpose. The study analyzes Chilean university classifications because they have been used in setting up higher education public policies.

Design/methodology/approach

The existing classifications of Chilean universities were identified in the literature. Researchers determined categories, criteria and/or indicators used, as well as their main purposes as described by the authors of the classifications. All the criteria and indicators identified were directly related to the quality of academic activities and to the results of the university accreditation processes. The institutional accreditation outcomes and variables were studied using univariate and multivariate statistical analysis.

Findings

Thea prioriapproach proved to be consistent with the results of institutional quality assurance, despite of the variability in individual performances. The empirical systems, however, do not show any contribution to the improvement of public policies in higher education. The results clearly show that classifications based on performance do not necessarily ensure improvements in institutional quality.

Originality/value

To the authors’ knowledge, this analysis is the first study of the relationship between university classification and quality assurance. The growing number of proposals for different empirical classifications in Chilean universities is evidence of institutional diversity only. However, the classification designs did not respond to purposes such as public policies improvements and other expected results from these instruments.
Increased risk of bullous pemphigoid in dipeptidyl peptidase 4 inhibitors: A nationwide, population‐based, cohort study in Taiwan
Authors: Hung Chih‐Tsung , Liu Jhih‐Syuan , Cheng Cheng‐Yi , Chung Chi‐Hsiang , Chiang Chien‐Ping , Chien Wu‐Chien , Wang Wei‐Ming
Published: December 2019

Recent studies revealed the risk of bullous pemphigoid (BP) in patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) taking dipeptidyl peptidase 4 (DPP‐4) inhibitors. To clarify the relationship between taking DPP‐4 inhibitors and the risk of BP among patients with DM, we conducted a cohort study by using the National Health Insurance Research Database of Taiwan from 1 January 2009 to 31 December 2015. We identified 6340 patients with DM taking DPP‐4 inhibitors and 25 360 DM patients who had not taken DPP‐4 inhibitors during the 7‐year follow‐up period. Compared with the non‐DPP‐4 inhibitor group, patients taking DDP‐4 inhibitors had a higher risk of BP (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR], 2.382; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.163–4.883; P = 0.017]. Among the DPP‐4 inhibitors available in Taiwan, vildagliptin showed the highest risk of BP (aHR, 2.849; 95% CI, 1.893–4.215; P < 0.001), followed by saxagliptin (aHR, 2.657; 95% CI, 1.770–3.934; P < 0.001). Subgroup analysis revealed that the higher risk of BP was observed in patients older than 65 years (aHR, 2.403; 95% CI, 1.590–3.627; P < 0.001). This study revealed that treatment with DPP‐4 inhibitors, especially vildagliptin, was significantly associated with an increased risk of BP among DM patients.
A Parliamentary Entente Cordiale? The House of Commons Defence Committee’s Joint Inquiry with the Assemblée Nationale’s Standing Committee on National Defence and the Armed Forces
Authors: EVANS ADAM
Published: December 2019

Interparliamentary relations do not attract much in the way of public or even academic attention. However, they are an aspect of parliamentary life in which there has been a series of experiments by select committees in the House of Commons. While one of the more prominent examples of such experimentation was the international grand committee on Big Data, Privacy and Democracy spearheaded by the Digital, Culture, Media and Sport Committee, this article will look at another example of select committee‐led interparliamentary relations, namely the ‘joint inquiry’ conducted by the House of Commons Defence Committee and the Assemblée nationale’s Standing Committee on National Defence into Future Cruise and Anti‐Ship Missiles in 2018.

This article, written by an official involved in the inquiry, offers the first reflections on the experience of this joint inquiry, demonstrates how the model undertaken for the inquiry differed from the approaches taken by other select committees involved in interparliamentary working, and explores whether it might offer a blueprint for future joint inquiries.
ISO Standards Addressing Issues of Bias and Impartiality in Forensic Work
Authors: Dror Itiel E. , Pierce Michal L.
Published: December 2019

The ISO/IEC 17020 and 17025 standards both include requirements for impartiality and the freedom from bias. Meeting these requirements for implicit cognitive bias is not a simple matter. In this article, we address these international standards, specifically focusing on evaluating and mitigating the risk to impartiality, and quality assurance checks, so as to meet accreditation program requirements. We cover their meaning to management as well as to practitioners, addressing how these issues of impartiality and bias relate to forensic work, and how one can effectively evaluate and mitigate those risks. We then elaborate on specific quality assurance policies and checks and identify when corrective action may be appropriate. These measures will not only serve to meet ISO/IEC 17020 and 17025 requirements, but also enhance forensic work and decision‐making.
Exercise training during hemodialysis sessions: Physical and biochemical benefits
Authors: Torres Esther , Aragoncillo Ines , Moreno Jorge , Vega Almudena , Abad Soraya , García‐Prieto Ana , Macias Nicolas , Hernandez Andres , Godino Maria Teresa , Luño Jose
Published: December 2019

Chronic inflammation, protein‐energy wasting, and poor physical functioning are highly prevalent among patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). These factors are associated with disability and increase of cardiovascular risk. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effects of exercise training during hemodialysis (HD) sessions on physical functioning, body composition, and nutritional and inflammatory status. We performed a prospective intervention study including patients on prevalent HD therapy. Patients were evaluated at baseline visit by Rehabilitation and Physiotherapy specialists and the exercise program was adapted to each patient's physical capacity. In addition to demographic, clinical, body composition and functional ability data, serum markers regarding nutritional and inflammatory status were collected at baseline and after 3 months of exercise training. We observed a significant improvement after 3‐month follow‐up in functional ability (6 minute walk test [6MWT] [403.15 ± 105.4 vs 431.81 ± 115.5 m, P < .001], sit‐to‐stand repetitions in 30 seconds [12.2 ± 4.2 vs 14.1 ± 5.0 repetitions, P = .003] and dynamometry [24.5 ± 11.9 vs 29.5 ± 12.5 kg, P < 0.001]), body composition with increase of body mass index (BMI) (23.7 ± 4.4 vs 24.1 ± 4.7 kg/m2, P = 0.01) at the expense of lean tissue index (LTI) (14.9 ± 3.7 vs 16.2 ± 2.9 kg/m2, P = 0.038) and lipid parameters with LDL‐cholesterol decrease (70.2 ± 17.9 vs 64.9 ± 21.3 mg/dL, P = .03) and lower serum triglyceride levels (125.8 ± 54.0 vs 108.2 ± 44.6 mg/dL, P = .006). In addition, we found a decrease in iron (155.6 ± 148.2 vs 116.7 ± 110.8 mg, P = .029) and erythropoietin (117.5 ± 84.2 vs 99.2 ± 74.5 μg, P = .023) requirements. The implementation of exercise training programs during HD can improve physical functioning, body composition and lipid and anemia profile. Supervised exercise programs could be included as part of HD patient care to improve physical capacity in these patients.
Does contact with the justice system deter or promote future delinquency? Results from a longitudinal study of British adolescent twins
Authors: Motz Ryan T. , Barnes J.C. , Caspi Avshalom , Arseneault Louise , Cullen Francis T. , Houts Renate , Wertz Jasmin , Moffitt Terrie E.
Published: December 2019

What impact does formal punishment have on antisocial conduct—does it deter or promote it? The findings from a long line of research on the labeling tradition indicate formal punishments have the opposite‐of‐intended consequence of promoting future misbehavior. In another body of work, the results show support for deterrence‐based hypotheses that punishment deters future misbehavior. So, which is it? We draw on a nationally representative sample of British adolescent twins from the Environmental Risk (E‐Risk) Longitudinal Twin Study to perform a robust test of the deterrence versus labeling question. We leverage a powerful research design in which twins can serve as the counterfactual for their co‐twin, thereby ruling out many sources of confounding that have likely impacted prior studies. The pattern of findings provides support for labeling theory, showing that contact with the justice system—through spending a night in jail/prison, being issued an anti‐social behaviour order (ASBO), or having an official record—promotes delinquency. We conclude by discussing the impact these findings may have on criminologists’ and practitioners’ perspective on the role of the juvenile justice system in society.
Chromosomal‐level assembly of Takifugu obscurus (Abe, 1949) genome using third‐generation DNA sequencing and Hi‐C analysis
Authors: Kang Seunghyun , Kim Jin‐Hyoung , Jo Euna , Lee Seung Jae , Jung Jihye , Kim Bo‐Mi , Lee Jun Hyuck , Oh Tae‐Jin , Yum Seungshic , Rhee Jae‐Sung , Park Hyun
Published: December 2019

The Tetraodontidae family are known to have relatively small and compact genomes compared to other vertebrates. The obscure puffer fish Takifugu obscurus is an anadromous species that migrates to freshwater from the sea for spawning. Thus the euryhaline characteristics of T. obscurus have been investigated to gain understanding of their survival ability, osmoregulation, and other homeostatic mechanisms in both freshwater and seawater. In this study, a high quality chromosome‐level reference genome for T. obscurus was constructed using long‐read Pacific Biosciences (PacBio) Sequel sequencing and a Hi‐C‐based chromatin contact map platform. The final genome assembly of T. obscurus is 381 Mb, with a contig N50 length of 3,296 kb and longest length of 10.7 Mb, from a total of 62 Gb of raw reads generated using single‐molecule real‐time sequencing technology from a PacBio Sequel platform. The PacBio data were further clustered into chromosome‐scale scaffolds using a Hi‐C approach, resulting in a 373 Mb genome assembly with a contig N50 length of 15.2 Mb and and longest length of 28 Mb. When we directly compared the 22 longest scaffolds of T. obscurus to the 22 chromosomes of the tiger puffer Takifugu rubripes, a clear one‐to‐one orthologous relationship was observed between the two species, supporting the chromosome‐level assembly of T. obscurus. This genome assembly can serve as a valuable genetic resource for exploring fugu‐specific compact genome characteristics, and will provide essential genomic information for understanding molecular adaptations to salinity fluctuations and the evolution of osmoregulatory mechanisms.
P2 receptors mRNA expression profiles in macrophages from ankylosing spondylitis patients and healthy individuals
Authors: Akhtari Maryam , Zargar Seyed Jalal , Vojdanian Mahdi , Ashraf‐Ganjouei Amir , Javinani Ali , Hamzeh Elham , Rezaiemanesh Alireza , Jamshidi Ahmadreza , Mahmoudi Mahdi
Published: December 2019

Background

Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a multifactorial rheumatic disease which mainly involves the axial skeleton. Macrophages and extracellular nucleotides have been shown to contribute to the inflammation process in autoimmune diseases. Membrane‐bound purinergic P2 receptors might be involved in the modulation of immune cells in AS. Therefore, we aimed to analyze the messenger RNA (mRNA) expression of P2 receptors in the macrophages of AS patients and healthy controls.

Methods

Twenty‐three AS patients and 23 age‐ and sex‐matched healthy individuals were included in our study. Whole blood‐separated monocytes of study participants were stimulated by macrophage colony‐stimulating factor for 7 days and differentiated to macrophages. Monocyte and macrophage markers were analyzed by flow cytometry. SYBR green real‐time polymerase chain reaction was used to measure the relative expression levels of P2RX1, P2RX2, P2RX3, P2RX4, P2RX5, P2RX6, P2RX7, P2RY1, P2RY2, P2RY4, P2RY6, P2RY11, P2RY12, P2RY13, P2RY14, and PANX1 genes.

Results

P2RY13 and P2RY6 genes had the highest expression levels in macrophages among P2RY genes. P2RY1 mRNA expression was significantly down‐regulated (−1.75 fold) and P2RY14 was up‐regulated (2.6 fold) in macrophages of AS patients compared to healthy individuals. P2RX4 gene had the highest expression in monocyte‐derived macrophages, followed by P2RX7 and P2RX1 genes. There was no significant difference in P2X receptor mRNA expression level between macrophages of AS patients and healthy individuals.

Conclusions

Our results indicate that AS patients show altered expression levels of P2 receptor genes. Moreover, these changes might be associated with disease activity and patients’ status.
Moving the Conceptual Framework Forward: Accounting for Uncertainty
Authors: Barker Richard , Penman Stephen , Linsmeier Thomas J. , Cooper Stephen
Published: December 2019

To meet the objectives of financial reporting in the IASB's Conceptual Framework, the “balance‐sheet approach” embraced by the Framework is necessary but not sufficient. Critical, but largely overlooked, is the role of uncertainty, which we argue defines the role of accrual accounting as a distinctive source of information for investors when investment outcomes are uncertain. This role is in some sense paradoxical: on the one hand, uncertainty undermines both the balance sheet (because uncertain assets are unrecognized) and the income statement (because mismatching is unavoidable). However, these inevitable accounting effects can be exploited to provide information about uncertainty, though not by a balance‐sheet approach alone. Rather, balance sheet recognition and measurement criteria are established by consideration of the impact of uncertainty on matching and mismatching in the income statement. This combination of balance‐sheet and income‐statement approaches enhances the communication of information to investors under conditions of uncertainty, thereby giving greater clarity and purpose in satisfying the objective of the Framework to provide information about “the amount, timing, and uncertainty of future cash flows.”
THE ANCIENT RECEPTION OF AESCHYLEAN SATYR PLAY
Authors: TOUYZ PAUL
Published: December 2019

In this article, I first discuss the reception of Aeschylus’ satyr plays in classical drama, the evidence for their reperformance, and their place in ancient criticism and scholarship. In the final section, I analyze the factors that contributed to the positive reputation of Aeschylean satyr play. Although the evidence is often very limited, I attempt to establish a framework for understanding this ancient reception. Here I propose that the importance placed on satyr play in Aeschylus’ reception in antiquity can be viewed as an extension of his image as the father of tragedy, through both the association of satyr play with the origins of tragedy and its place in the tetralogy.