bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Criminal Liability of Corporations for Trafficking in Human Beings for Labour Exploitation
Authors: Planitzer Julia , Katona Nora
Published: December 2017

Legal instruments at the European level clearly define that States have an obligation to establish corporate liability for trafficking in human beings (THB). The monitoring of the implementation of the Council of Europe Convention on Action against Trafficking in Human Beings shows that, in general, the respective legislation for corporate criminal liability already largely exists in the States’ Parties. However, application of the legislation seems to lag behind, since relevant cases were identified in only a few States. By analysing these legal mechanisms with a focus on Austria, studying case law in Belgium and Cyprus, and conducting interviews with stakeholders, the authors identify obstacles for the application of corporate criminal liability in the context of THB. Based on case law, the paper analyses the potential of corporate criminal liability for exploited persons to have access to compensation and describes challenges in this field. Cases on corporate criminal liability for THB seem to focus on sanctioning the companies and ensuring compensation might be seen as a rather secondary priority.
International Accounting Standards in Africa: Selective Recursivity for the ‘Happy Few’?
Authors: Botzem Sebastian , Quack Sigrid , Zori Solomon
Published: December 2017

This study explores recursivity in international accounting standard‐setting, focusing on participation of actors from African countries. While the International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) Foundation bases its legitimacy claims as a global standard‐setter on a combination of expertise and a formally transparent set of recursive procedures for consultation of stakeholders, empirical results show that participation in the latter is geographically very uneven. The article argues that conceptual mismatch between the standard‐setter's objectives on the one hand and the socio‐economic, cultural and political conditions in many African countries on the other leads to selective recursivity that is problematic for the former's legitimacy and effectiveness. These findings are of wider relevance for debates on global standard‐setting and development.
Two new inscriptions mentioning Rabbum ʾAkhṭar, a military commander of the Sabaean king in the first half of the third century AD
Authors: Rijziger Sarah
Published: December 2017

Rabbum ʾAkhṭar, known from three inscriptions so far in which he is mentioned together with at least one of his brothers, was a high‐ranking official of the Sabaean king Shāʿirum ʾAwtar. Among other wars, he participated in the battle that resulted in the defeat of Shabwa, the capital of the kingdom of Ḥaḍramawt. We can now add two new inscriptions in which this man is mentioned. Here, his name Rabbum is newly confirmed, the name of his father is revealed and his being referred to, on one occasion, as ‘lord’ gives us a clue as to his social status. This paper gives an overview of the old and new data concerning this important figure of South Arabian history in the first half of the third century AD.
The effect of 52 week highs and lows on analyst stock recommendations
Authors: Lin Mei‐Chen
Published: December 2017

In this study, I examine whether analysts use the 52 week high and low as reference prices for recommendation revisions. My results show that the proximity and recency of the 52 week high increase the odds of stocks being upgraded. When analysts upgrade a stock whose 52 week high occurred in the distant past, they provide more valuable information to investors than that based on the proximity ratio of the 52 week high. More‐experienced analysts provide more valuable recommendations when they upgrade (downgrade) based on either the nearness or recency of the 52 week high (low) than less‐experienced analysts do.
Surgical correction of Peyronie's disease via tunica albuginea plication: long‐term follow‐up
Authors: Seveso M. , Melegari S. , De Francesco O. , Macchi A. , Romero Otero J. , Taverna G. , Bozzini G.
Published: December 2017

Peyronie's disease (PD) is an acquired connective tissue disorder of the tunica albuginea with fibrosis and inflammation that lead to palpable plaques formation, penile curvature, and pain during erection. Patients report negative effects on main domains such as physical appearance and self‐image, sexual function, and performance. The aim of this study was to evaluate plication of the albuginea outcomes after a long‐term follow‐up period. Between 1998 and 2006, a total of 204 patients with PD underwent surgical correction with albuginea plication technique. We obtained complete long‐term follow‐up data in 187 cases. The follow‐up data included evaluation of curvature correction, penile shortening, sexual function, complications, and patient satisfaction. After a mean follow‐up of 141 months, the most common postoperative complications were: loss of length (150 patients had a minimal penile shortening ≤1.5 cm, 37 patient between 1.5, and 3 cm, none >3 cm), recurrent or residual penile curvature (15 patients, without impairing sexual intercourse), erectile dysfunction (15 patients had IIEF‐5 < 10 at 5 years of follow‐up vs. 28 patients at 10 years), change in penile sensation (37 patients experienced paresthesia of the glans 1 year after surgery, 28 at 5 years, and 15 at 10 years); painful or palpable suture knots (in 20 cases) spontaneously healed in 3 months. Overall, 77% of the patients and partners were completely satisfied, 14% partially satisfied, and 9% unsatisfied. Plication procedure is safe and simple to be performed compared with the classical Nesbit's procedure. It has a shorter surgical time, lower costs, and could be successfully performed by less experienced surgeons too. It has a minimal risk of de novo erectile dysfunction, injury to the dorsal neurovascular bundle. Results are good in terms of patient satisfaction according to anatomical outcome and functional correction.
The association between varicocoeles and vascular disease: an analysis of U.S. claims data
Authors: Wang N. N. , Dallas K. , Li S. , Baker L. , Eisenberg M. L.
Published: December 2017

S‪tudies have suggested an association between varicocele, hypogonadism, and elevated oxidative stress markers, but no other health risks have been associated with varicoceles. ‬‬‬‬We sought to determine the association between varicocele and incident medical comorbidities. ‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬Using the Truven Health MarketScan® claims database from 2001 to 2009, we identified 4459 men with varicoceles, and 100,066 controls based on ICD‐9 and CPT codes, with an average follow‐up of 3.1 person years. Men with varicoceles were classified as symptomatic or asymptomatic based on co‐existing diagnoses. Men with medical comorbidities present before or within 1 year of index diagnosis were excluded. Metabolic and cardiovascular outcome variables were identified via ICD‐9 codes. A Cox regression analysis was used to assess incident risk of metabolic and cardiovascular disease amongst the different groups. Men with varicoceles had a higher incidence of heart disease compared to men who underwent infertility testing (HR 1.22, 95% CI: 1.03–1.45), and men who underwent vasectomy (HR 1.32, 95% CI 1.13–1.54). The varicoceles group also had a higher risk of diabetes (HR 1.73, 95% CI: 1.37–2.18) and hyperlipidemia (HR 1.15, 95% CI: 1.03–1.28) compared to the vasectomy group. Furthermore, men with symptomatic varicoceles (n = 3442) had a higher risk of heart disease, diabetes, and hyperlipidemia following diagnosis, while men with asymptomatic varicoceles (n = 1017) did not. Given the prevalence of varicoceles, further research is needed to understand the implications of a varicocele to a man's overall health.
Effects of the insulin‐like growth factor system on testicular differentiation and function: a review of the literature
Authors: Cannarella R. , Condorelli R. A. , La Vignera S. , Calogero A. E.
Published: December 2017

We recently described the occurrence of cryptorchidism, oligoasthenoteratozoospermia, and genital abnormalities in patients with distal 15q chromosome structural abnormalities. This observation brought us to hypothesize that insulin‐like growth factor (IGF) receptor (IGF1R), mapping on the 15q 26.3 chromosomal band, may be involved in testicular function. To further evaluate this topic, we reviewed in vitro and in vivo studies exploring the role of the IGF system [IGF1, IGF2, IGF1R, insulin receptor substrates (IRS)] at the testicular level both in animals and in humans. In animals, IGF1/IGF1R has been found to be involved in testicular development during embryogenesis, in Sertoli cell (SC) proliferation, and in germ cell (GS) proliferation and differentiation. Interestingly, IGF1R seems to mediate follicle‐stimulating hormone (FSH) effects through the PI3K/AKT pathway. In humans, IGF1 directly increases testicular volume. The molecular pathways responsible for testicular differentiation and IGF1/IGF1R signaling are highly conserved among species; therefore, the IGF system may be involved in FSH signaling also in humans. We suggest a possible molecular pathway occurring in human SCs, which involves both IGF1 and FSH through the PI3K/AKT pathway. The acknowledgment of an IGF1 mediation of the FSH‐induced effects may open new ways for a targeted therapy in idiopathic non‐FSH‐responder oligoasthenoteratozoospermia.
Long‐term penile morphometric alterations in patients treated with robot‐assisted versus open radical prostatectomy
Authors: Capogrosso P. , Ventimiglia E. , Cazzaniga W. , Stabile A. , Pederzoli F. , Boeri L. , Gandaglia G. , Dehò F. , Briganti A. , Montorsi F. , Salonia A.
Published: December 2017

Neglected side effects after radical prostatectomy have been previously reported. In this context, the prevalence of penile morphometric alterations has never been assessed in robot‐assisted radical prostatectomy series. We aimed to assess prevalence of and predictors of penile morphometric alterations (i.e. penile shortening or penile morphometric deformation) at long‐term follow‐up in patients submitted to either robot‐assisted (robot‐assisted radical prostatectomy) or open radical prostatectomy. Sexually active patients after either robot‐assisted radical prostatectomy or open radical prostatectomy prospectively completed a 28‐item questionnaire, with sensitive issues regarding sexual function, namely orgasmic functioning, climacturia and changes in morphometric characteristics of the penis. Only patients with a post‐operative follow‐up ≥ 24 months were included. Patients submitted to either adjuvant or salvage therapies or those who refused to comprehensively complete the questionnaire were excluded from the analyses. A propensity‐score matching analysis was implemented to control for baseline differences between groups. Logistic regression models tested potential predictors of penile morphometric alterations at long‐term post‐operative follow‐up. Overall, 67 (50%) and 67 (50%) patients were included after open radical prostatectomy or robot‐assisted radical prostatectomy, respectively. Self‐rated post‐operative penile shortening and penile morphometric deformation were reported by 75 (56%) and 29 (22.8%) patients, respectively. Rates of penile shortening and penile morphometric deformation were not different after open radical prostatectomy and robot‐assisted radical prostatectomy [all p > 0.5]. At univariable analysis, self‐reported penile morphometric alterations (either penile shortening or penile morphometric deformation) were significantly associated with baseline international index of erectile function–erectile function scores, body mass index, post‐operative erectile function recovery, year of surgery and type of surgery (all p < 0.05). At multivariable analysis, robot‐assisted radical prostatectomy was independently associated with a lower risk of post‐operative penile morphometric alterations (OR: 0.38; 95% CI: 0.16–0.93). Self‐perceived penile morphometric alterations were reported in one of two patients after radical prostatectomy at long‐term follow‐up, with open surgery associated with a potential higher risk of this self‐perception.
Does using testicular sperm retrieval rather than ejaculated spermatozoa improve reproductive outcomes in couples with previous ART failure and poor ovarian response? A case‐controlled study
Authors: Gilman A.R. , Younes G. , Tannus S. , Son W.Y. , Chan P. , Buckett W.
Published: December 2017

The objective of this study was to assess whether testicular‐retrieved spermatozoa improve reproductive outcomes compared to fresh ejaculate in women with poor ovarian response and a history of previous ART failure. The study was performed as a retrospective case–control study at a university‐based reproductive center in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. Eighteen poor‐responder patients were matched 3 : 1 with 54 controls. Poor responders were defined as those with ≤3 oocytes retrieved at oocyte pickup. Cases were identified as poor responders, and only those with previous IVF failure(s) as an indication for testicular‐retrieved spermatozoa were included. Controls were age and cycle attempt number matched. All patients were included only once. From January 1, 2009 to December 31, 2015, all patients and controls underwent an IVF cycle using ICSI with either testicular spermatozoa or ejaculated spermatozoa, respectively. Outcomes included live birth rate, pregnancy rate, miscarriage rate, oocyte number, and embryo transfer (ET) day. The results showed live birth rates, pregnancy rates, and miscarriage rates were similar. There were fewer day 2 ETs (8.5% vs. 48.6%, p = 0.01) and more day 5 blastocyst transfers (25.0% vs. 5.4%, p = 0.05) in the testicular sperm retrieval group compared to controls and thus an overall suggestion of better embryo quality in the testicular sperm group. Overall, however, the use of testicular sperm retrieval appears to add little. Women with poor ovarian response typically have a poor prognosis with respect to live birth rates, and this is further supported in this study. The suggestion of better embryo quality in the testicular‐retrieved sperm group would need to be further assessed in a larger multicentered study.
Effect of testosterone supplementation on nitroso‐redox imbalance, cardiac metabolism markers, and S100 proteins expression in the heart of castrated male rats
Authors: Regouat N. , Cheboub A. , Benahmed M. , Belarbi A. , Hadj‐Bekkouche F.
Published: December 2017

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of castration and testosterone supplementation on nitroso‐redox status, cardiac metabolism markers, and S100 proteins expression in the heart of male rats. 50 male Wistar rats were randomized into five groups with ten animals each: group 1: control intact (CON); group 2: sham operated (Sh‐O); group 3: sesame oil‐treated rats (S‐oil); group 4: gonadoectomized (GDX); and group 5: gonadoectomized rats treated with testosterone (GDX‐T) for 8 weeks. Our results showed myofibrillar weaving, apoptosis, inflammation, and fibrosis (as reflected by increased activity of MMP 9 and MMP 2) in the heart of gonadoectomized rats. Testosterone supplementation restored the normal structure of the heart. In addition, a state of nitroso‐redox imbalance was observed in the heart of castrated rats with increased NO (425.1 ± 322.8 vs. 208 ± 67.06, p ˂ 0.05) and MDA (33.18 ± 9.45 vs. 22.04 ± 7.13, p ˂ 0.05) and decreased GSH levels (0.71 ± 0.13 vs. 1.09 ± 0.19, p = 0.001). Testosterone treatment leads to a re‐establish of only NO levels (425.1 ± 322.8 vs. 210.4 ± 114.3, p > 0.05). Markers of cardiac metabolism showed an enhancement of LDH activity (12725 ± 4604 vs. 5381 ± 3122, p ˂ 0.05) in the heart of castrated rats. This was inversed by testosterone replacement (12725 ± 4604 vs. 5781 ± 5187, p ˂ 0.05). Furthermore, castration induced heart's accumulation of triglycerides (37.24 ± 6.17 vs. 27.88 ± 6.47, p ˂ 0.05) and total cholesterol (61.44 ± 3.59 vs. 54.11 ± 7.55, p ˂ 0.05), which were significantly reduced by testosterone supplementation (29.03 ± 2.47 vs. 37.24 ± 6.17, p ˂ 0.05) and (47.9 ± 4.15 vs. 61.44 ± 3.59, p ˂ 0.001). Cardiomyocytes of castrated rats showed a decreased immunoexpression of S100 proteins compared to control animals. A restoration of S100 proteins immunostaining in cardiomyocyte cytoplasm was observed after testosterone supplementation. These findings confirm the deleterious effects of testosterone deficiency on cardiac function and highlight the involvement of nitric oxide, metalloproteinases 2 and 9, and S100 proteins.
National screening guidelines and developments in prenatal diagnoses and live births of Down syndrome in 1973–2016 in Denmark
Authors: Lou Stina , Petersen Olav B. , Jørgensen Finn S. , Lund Ida C.B. , Kjærgaard Susanne ,   Danish Cytogenetic Central Registry Study Group, Vogel Ida
Published: December 2017

Introduction

Denmark was the first country in the world to implement a national, free‐for‐all offer of prenatal screening for Down syndrome to all pregnant women. It has a high uptake (>90%) compared to other countries. Thus, Denmark offers an interesting case for investigating the consequences of implementing comprehensive, national prenatal screening guidelines. The aim of this study was to describe the historical developments in invasive procedures, pre‐/postnatal diagnoses of Down syndrome and Down syndrome live births in the period 1973–2016 in Denmark.

Material and methods

Data on invasive procedures, pre‐ and postnatal Down syndrome diagnoses were retrieved from the Danish Cytogenetic Central Registry.

Results

From 1973 to 1993, screening based on maternal age and high‐risk indications resulted in a constant increase in invasive procedures. After the introduction of the triple test in 1994, invasive procedures decreased for the first time in 20 years. Following the introduction of an offer of combined screening to all pregnant women in 2004, the number of invasive procedures decreased markedly, while there was a concurrent increase in prenatal diagnoses of Down syndrome. Additionally, the number of Down syndrome live births decreased suddenly and significantly, but subsequently stabilized at 23–35 annual live births. Of these, the majority were diagnosed postnatally.

Conclusion

Though prenatal screening technologies constantly improve, it was the introduction of and adherence to national guidelines that resulted in marked shifts in screening procedures and outcome in Denmark.
Socioeconomic Context as a Moderator in the Relationship between Body Mass Index and Depression in Europe
Authors: Alvarez‐Galvez Javier , Gomez‐Baya Diego
Published: December 2017

Background

Obesity and depression are two major health issues in contemporary societies. This study aims to address two fundamental questions: (1) what is the impact of macro‐level adverse socioeconomic circumstances on depression? and (2) how do macro‐level variations in the socioeconomic context affect the relationship between body mass index (BMI) and depression?

Methods

Data from the 7th round of the European Social Survey were used, collected from a sample size of 37,623 participants and aggregated around a total of 20 countries. A random intercept multilevel model was constructed to study the variations in the relationship between depression and BMI. The contextual effect of risk of poverty, unemployment rate, and gross domestic product per capita were studied at the country level.

Results

First, both unemployment and poverty risk were found to be positively associated with depressive disorders. Second, the results show that a higher risk of poverty at the macro level may increase the effect of BMI on depression in European countries.

Conclusion

The present study provides new evidence suggesting that the obesity–depression relationship will be, on average, stronger in countries with poor socioeconomic conditions. Therefore, adverse socioeconomic contextual conditions may increase depression associated with obesity.
Equine gestational length and location: is there more that the research could be telling us?
Authors: Clothier J , Hinch G , Brown W , Small A
Published: December 2017

Clear definitions of ‘normal’ equine gestation length (GL) are elusive, with GL being subject to a considerable number of internal and external variables that have confounded interpretation and estimation of GL for over 50 years. Consequently, the mean GL of 340 days first established by Rossdale in 1967 for Thoroughbred horses in northern Europe continues to be the benchmark value referenced by veterinarians, breeders and researchers worldwide. Application of a 95% confidence limit to reported GL range values indicates a possible connection between geographic location and GL. Improved knowledge of this variable may help in assessing the degree of the neonate’s prematurity and dysmaturity at or soon after birth, and identification of conditions such as incomplete ossification of the carpal and tarsal bones. Associated pathologies such as bone malformation and fracture, angular limb deformity and degenerative joint disease can cause chronic unsoundness, rendering horses unsuitable for athletic purpose and shortening ridden careers. This review will examine both the factors contributing to GL variation and the published data to determine whether there is potential to refine our understanding of GL by establishing a more accurate and regionally relevant GL range based on a 95% confidence limit. This may benefit both equine industry economics and equine welfare by improving early identification of skeletally immature neonates, so that appropriate intervention may be considered.
Who gets the gametes? An argument for a points system for fertility patients
Authors: Jenkins Simon , Ives Jonathan , Avery Sue , Draper Heather
Published: December 2017

This paper argues that the convention of allocating donated gametes on a ‘first come, first served’ basis should be replaced with an allocation system that takes into account more morally relevant criteria than waiting time. This conclusion was developed using an empirical bioethics methodology, which involved a study of the views of 18 staff members from seven U.K. fertility clinics, and 20 academics, policy‐makers, representatives of patient groups, and other relevant professionals, on the allocation of donated sperm and eggs. Against these views, we consider some nuanced ways of including criteria in a points allocation system. We argue that such a system is more ethically robust than ‘first come, first served’, but we acknowledge that our results suggest that a points system will meet with resistance from those working in the field. We conclude that criteria such as a patient's age, potentially damaging substance use, and parental status should be used to allocate points and determine which patients receive treatment and in what order. These and other factors should be applied according to how they bear on considerations like child welfare, patient welfare, and the effectiveness of the proposed treatment.
Digital government and service delivery: An examination of performance and prospects
Authors: Roy Jeffrey
Published: December 2017

Since the emergence of electronic or digital government two decades ago, the delivery of public services online has been a centrepiece in efforts to leverage the Internet and improve the performance of the public sector. Prodded by comparisons to banks and online retailers, governments at all levels have been enticed by the dramatically lower costs of a transaction online versus one involving mail, a telephone call centre, or in‐person service facility. Yet such comparators have also masked a much more complicated story for public sector service innovation and delivery reform. The recent advent of mobility further complicates this landscape since the term can be interpreted in one of two (partially related) manners: first, as a newer online channel via mobile devices that accentuates the search for efficiency as integration; and second, as a basis for more participative public engagement in the governance of service design and delivery. Drawing upon three inter‐related typologies of public sector governance (traditional public administration, new public management, and public value management), this article examines the evolution of a partially digitized sector service architecture, its mixed performance to date, and the challenges ahead. Specific attention is devoted to the Liberal Government's initial sign posts as well as the increasingly pressing inter‐governmental dimensions to more digitized service delivery.
Acute right heart failure caused by tacrolimus after renal transplantation: Serial observation by speckle tracking and Doppler echocardiography
Authors: Igata Sachiyo , Wettersten Nicholas , Wong Darrin J. , Sabet Amin , DeMaria Anthony N.
Published: December 2017

Tacrolimus is an immunosuppressive agent well known to be capable of producing renal impairment. Acute renal failure with right heart failure caused by tacrolimus is rarely described. We report the findings of one such case in which tacrolimus caused acute renal failure with severe tricuspid regurgitation and right ventricular failure documented by echocardiography.
THE EFFECTS OF JOB RELOCATION ON SPOUSAL CAREERS: EVIDENCE FROM MILITARY CHANGE OF STATION MOVES
Authors: Burke Jeremy , Miller Amalia R.
Published: December 2017

We investigate the impact of military job relocation on spousal earnings and employment by creating a unique longitudinal database that tracks over 900,000 military spouses over the period 2001–2012, based on data from two administrative sources—military records on personnel and their dependents, and Social Security earnings records. This database allows us to estimate the effects of military change of station moves controlling for some key observable characteristics of the service‐member and household and controlling for individual spouse fixed effects. We find that military moves cause a substantial decline in spousal earnings in the year of the move, on the order of $2,100, or 14% of average spousal earnings. Moves also increase the likelihood that the spouse has no earnings for the year. We find larger earnings reductions for moves that cross state lines, and for older spouses, male spouses, and those with young children. The career costs persist over time and spouses continue to experience significantly lower earnings 2 years after the move. This persistence, combined with the typical military member experiencing a change of station move every 2 or 3 years, may substantially limit the ability of military spouses to accumulate human capital over time. (JEL H56, R23, J45, J16, J64)
Reptile embryos are not capable of behavioral thermoregulation in the egg
Authors: Cordero Gerardo A. , Telemeco Rory S. , Gangloff Eric J.
Published: December 2017

Reptile embryos have recently been observed moving within the egg in response to temperature, raising the exciting possibility that embryos might behaviorally thermoregulate analogous to adults. However, the conjecture that reptile embryos have ample opportunity and capacity to adaptively control their body temperature warrants further discussion. Using turtles as a model, we discuss the spatiotemporal constraints to movement in reptile embryos. We demonstrate that, as embryos grow, the internal egg space rapidly diminishes such that the temporal window for appreciable displacement is confined to stages that feature incomplete neuromuscular differentiation. During this time, muscles are insufficiently developed to actively and consistently control movement. These constraints are well illustrated by the Chinese softshelled turtle (Pelodiscus sinensis), the first reptile reported to behaviorally thermoregulate. Furthermore, sporadic embryo activity peaks after the temperature‐sensitive period in species with temperature‐dependent sex determination, thus nullifying the opportunity for embryos to exhibit control over this important phenotype. These embryonic constraints add to previously‐identified environmental constraints on behavioral thermoregulation by reptile embryos. We discuss alternative hypotheses to explain previously reported patterns of behavioral thermoregulation. Based on a holistic consideration of embryonic limitations, we conclude that reptile embryos are generally unable to adaptively behaviorally thermoregulate within the egg.
A Study of the Relationships Between Tanning Methods and the Intention to Engage in Risky Appearance‐Related Behaviors
Authors: Yoo Jeong‐Ju
Published: December 2017

The goal was to identify overall intentions to engage in risky appearance‐related behaviors and to determine whether tanning methods (UV‐induced vs. non‐UV‐induced) were significant in relationship to female college students’ intentions to engage in risky appearance management behaviors. A total of 395 female college students at one university in southwestern United States answered an online survey. In general, the participants did not intend to engage in appearance management behaviors that are deemed as highly risky. An independent t‐test revealed that both frequent ultra violet‐induced and non‐ultra violet‐induced frequent tanners’ behavioral intentions to engage in risky weight management behaviors, plastic surgery procedures, and spa treatments were higher than infrequent tanners. Infrequent UV‐induced tanners were less likely to have body piercing and tattooing, compared to UV‐induced tanners. Safer tanners were more concerned about stigmatized body modification, in particular.
Greenhouse gas emissions from the energy crop oilseed rape (Brassica napus); the role of photosynthetically active radiation in diurnal N2O flux variation
Authors: Keane Ben J. , Ineson Phil , Vallack Harry W. , Blei Emanuel , Bentley Mark , Howarth Steve , McNamara Niall P. , Rowe Rebecca L. , Williams Mat , Toet Sylvia
Published: December 2017

Oilseed rape (OSR, Brassica napus L.) is an important feedstock for biodiesel; hence, carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4) and particularly fertilizer‐derived nitrous oxide (N2O) emissions during cultivation must be quantified to assess putative greenhouse gas (GHG) savings, thus creating an urgent and increasing need for such data. Substrates of nitrification [ammonium (NH4)] and denitrification [nitrate (NO3)], the predominant N2O production pathways, were supplied separately and in combination to OSR in a UK field trial aiming to: (i) produce an accurate GHG budget of fertilizer application; (ii) characterize short‐ to medium‐term variation in GHG fluxes; (iii) establish the processes driving N2O emission. Three treatments were applied twice, 1 week apart: ammonium nitrate fertilizer (NH4NO3, 69 kg‐N ha−1) mimicking the farm management, ammonium chloride (NH4Cl, 34.4 kg‐N ha−1) and sodium nitrate (NaNO3, 34.6 kg‐N ha−1). We deployed SkyLine2D for the very first time, a novel automated chamber system to measure CO2, CH4 and N2O fluxes at unprecedented high temporal and spatial resolution from OSR. During 3 weeks following the fertilizer application, CH4 fluxes were negligible, but all treatments were a net sink for CO2 (ca. 100 g CO2 m−2). Cumulative N2O emissions (ca. 120 g CO2‐eq m−2) from NH4NO3 were significantly greater (P < 0.04) than from NaNO3 (ca. 80 g CO2‐eq m−2), but did not differ from NH4Cl (ca. 100 g CO2‐eq m−2) and reduced the carbon sink of photosynthesis so that OSR was a net GHG source in the fertilizer treatment. Diurnal variation in N2O emissions, peaking in the afternoon, was more strongly associated with photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) than temperature. This suggests that the supply of carbon (C) from photosynthate may have been the key driver of the observed diurnal pattern in N2O emission and thus should be considered in future process‐based models of GHG emissions.
GGR Biennial Critical Review: Analytical Developments Since 2014
Authors: Linge Kathryn L. , Bédard L. Paul , Bugoi Roxana , Enzweiler Jacinta , Jochum Klaus Peter , Kilian Rüdiger , Liu Jingao , Marin‐Carbonne Johanna , Merchel Silke , Munnik Frans , Morales Luiz F.G. , Rollion‐Bard Claire , Souders A. Kate , Sylvester Paul J. , Weis Ulrike
Published: December 2017

This GGR biennial critical review covers developments and innovations in key analytical methods published since January 2014, relevant to the chemical, isotopic and crystallographic characterisation of geological and environmental materials. In nine selected analytical fields, publications considered to be of wide significance are summarised, background information is provided and their importance evaluated. In addition to instrumental technologies, this review also presents a summary of new developments in the preparation and characterisation of rock, microanalytical and isotopic reference materials, including a précis of recent changes and revisions to ISO guidelines for reference material characterisation and reporting. Selected reports are provided of isotope ratio determinations by both solution nebulisation MC‐ICP‐MS and laser ablation‐ICP‐MS, as well as of radioactive isotope geochronology by LA‐ICP‐MS. Most of the analytical techniques elaborated continue to provide new applications for geochemical analysis; however, it is noted that instrumental neutron activation analysis has become less popular in recent years, mostly due to the reduced availability of nuclear reactors to act as a neutron source. Many of the newer applications reported here provide analysis at increasingly finer resolution. Examples include atom probe tomography, a very sensitive method providing atomic scale information, nanoscale SIMS, for isotopic imaging of geological and biological samples, and micro‐XRF, which has a spatial resolution many orders of magnitude smaller than conventional XRF.
Climate change during the Triassic and Jurassic
Authors: Harris Rhys , McCall Robert , Randall Oliver , Bin Tawang Muhammad Hafiz , Williams Rhys , Fairman Jonathan G. , Schultz David M.
Published: December 2017

The transition from the Triassic to Jurassic is associated with dramatic changes in Earth's climate. Pangaea was breaking up as North America rifted away from Africa, the Central Atlantic Magmatic Province erupted, and the concentration of atmospheric carbon dioxide increased dramatically. This article summarises the changes in Earth's climate associated with this transition, including a discussion of the various impacts of the increased carbon dioxide on the Earth system, the question of whether the wet episode in the Carnian was a global or regional event, the formation of bauxite deposits, and how dinosaur distributions changed over time. Palaeoclimate model simulations reveal the spatial changes in climate between the Triassic and Jurassic, illustrating the subtropics becoming slightly cooler and wetter despite the warming trend for the Earth's average temperature.
Changing debris flow activity after sudden sediment input: a case study from the Swiss Alps
Authors: Baer Patrick , Huggel Christian , McArdell Brian W. , Frank Florian
Published: December 2017

On 27 December 2011, a rock avalanche in the upper Val Bondasca in the southern Swiss Alps deposited 1.5–1.7 million m3 of rock debris. The following summer, debris flow activity in Val Bondasca was unusually high with four events after a 90‐year period of debris flow inactivity. This was an exceptional situation for the valley. Analysing the 2012 events, the long‐term record of meteorological conditions such as rainfall intensity and duration, in comparison with debris flow activity, suggests that the meteorological conditions in summer 2012 would not have triggered the high intensity debris flow events without additional sediment input. Consequently, the suddenly increased debris availability can be considered a major factor in these events. Interestingly, rainfall events of similar magnitude in the subsequent years 2013–2015 did not trigger additional debris flow events, indicating that debris flow initiation thresholds are increasing again, back towards pre‐rock avalanche levels. This study aims to help in understanding the so far poorly understood temporal evolution of debris flow triggering thresholds and the effect of sudden changes in sediment availability.
EQUILIBRIUM SEARCH AND TAX CREDIT REFORM
Authors: Shephard Andrew
Published: December 2017

An empirical equilibrium job search model with wage posting is developed to analyze the impact of U.K. tax reforms. The model allows for a rich characterization of the labor market, with hours responses, accurate representations of the tax and transfer system, and both worker and firm heterogeneity. The British Working Families' Tax Credit and contemporaneous reforms are predicted to increase employment, with equilibrium effects found to be relatively modest. The model is used to assess the impact of alternative policies, with equilibrium effects shown to become important as the generosity of tax credits is increased.
WORK INCENTIVES OF MEDICAID BENEFICIARIES AND THE ROLE OF ASSET TESTING
Authors: Pashchenko Svetlana , Porapakkarm Ponpoje
Published: December 2017

Should asset testing be used in means‐tested programs? Focusing on Medicaid, we show that in the asymmetric information environment, there is a positive role for asset testing. Our tool is a general equilibrium model with heterogeneous agents. We find that 23% of Medicaid enrollees do not work in order to be eligible. These distortions are costly: If Medicaid eligibility could be linked to (unobservable) productivity, this results in substantial welfare gains. We show that asset testing can achieve a similar outcome when asset limits are allowed to be different for workers and nonworkers.
CARBON LOCK‐IN: THE ROLE OF EXPECTATIONS
Authors: van der Meijden Gerard , Smulders Sjak
Published: December 2017

We argue that expectations about future energy use affect the transition from fossil to renewables because of an interaction between innovation and resource scarcity. This article presents a model of directed technical change to study this interaction. We find that fossil‐saving technical change erodes the incentives to implement renewables. Conversely, the anticipation of a transition to renewables diminishes the incentives to invest in fossil technology. As a result, two equilibria may arise, one with a transition to renewables and with low fossil efficiency and one without renewables and with high fossil efficiency. Expectations determine which equilibrium arises.
Mental health nurses and mental health peer workers: Self‐perceptions of role‐related clinical competences
Authors: Debyser Bart , Duprez Veerle , Beeckman Dimitri , Vandewalle Joeri , Van Hecke Ann , Deproost Eddy , Verhaeghe Sofie
Published: December 2017

In a mental healthcare that embraces a recovery‐oriented practice, the employment of mental health peer workers is encouraged. Although peer workers are increasingly working together with nurses, there is a lack of research that explores how nurses and peer workers perceive their role‐related competences in clinical practice. The aim of this study was to clarify and understand these self‐perceptions in order to identify the specificity and potential complementarity of both roles. This insight is needed to underpin a successful partnership between both vocations. A qualitative descriptive research design based on principles of critical incident methodology was used. Twelve nurses and eight peer workers from different mental healthcare organizations participated. A total of 132 reported cases were analysed. Rigour was achieved through thick description, audit trail, investigator triangulation and peer review. Nurses relate their role‐related competences predominantly with being compliant with instructions, being a team player and ensuring security and control. Peer workers relate their role‐related competences with being able to maintain themselves as a peer worker, building up a relationship that is supportive for both the patient and themselves, and to utilize their lived experience. Both nurses and peer workers assign a major role to the team in determining their satisfaction with their competences. Consequently, what is perceived as important for the team appears to overshadow their self‐assessment of competences. The findings highlighted the importance of paying more attention to identity construction, empowerment and role competence development of nurses and peer workers in their respective education and ongoing training.
Optimal production decision for a risk‐averse manufacturer faced with random yield and stochastic demand
Authors: Deng Shiming , Zheng Zhong
Published: December 2017

Consider a risk‐averse manufacturer who produces a single product with a random yield to satisfy uncertain market demand. The manufacturer maximizes its expected profit subject to a chance constraint that requires the probability of the total profit below a target be less than a predetermined level. We show that due to the profit target constraint in the presence of random yield and stochastic demand, the manufacturer can neither produce too much nor too little irrespective of the predetermined probability level, depending solely on the profit target level. Further, the special case of uniform yield and uniform demand is examined and we obtain the manufacturer's optimal production quantity. In addition, two special cases of random yield rate and deterministic demand or deterministic yield rate and stochastic demand are considered. The opposite impacts of random yield and stochastic demand are revealed: the random yield induces a minimum production quantity that may cause the manufacturer to increase its production quantity, while the stochastic demand induces a maximum production quantity that may cause the manufacturer to decrease its production quantity. By comparing the solutions of the above‐mentioned special cases with the case of both random yield and stochastic demand, it is demonstrated that the existence of both random yield and stochastic demand results in a more constrained production requirement for the manufacturer (a larger minimum production quantity and a smaller maximum production quantity). That is, the opposite impacts of random yield and stochastic demand will not offset, but enhance each other.
Fabrication of nearly stoichiometric polycrystalline SiC fibers with excellent high‐temperature stability up to 1900°C
Authors: Gou Yanzi , Jian Ke , Wang Hao , Wang Jun
Published: December 2017

Due to the extensive applications of SiC fiber‐reinforced composite materials in the fields of aviation, aerospace, and nuclear power, there are increasing demands for SiC fibers with both excellent mechanical performance and high‐temperature stability. In this work, nearly stoichiometric polycrystalline SiC fibers were fabricated using amorphous Si–C–Al–O fibers with excess carbon and oxygen (C/Si = 1.34, O content: 7.74 wt%). The nearly stoichiometric composition (C/Si = 1.05) of the product fibers was achieved by thermal decomposition of the starting fibers. The fibers were well‐crystallized with grain sizes of ~200 nm due to sintering at a high temperature of 1900°C. The fibers exhibited a high tensile strength and a high elastic modulus and were composed of SiC grains with twins and stacking‐faults, exhibiting intragranular fracture behavior. Furthermore, the fibers maintained their original tensile strength after being maintained at 1800°C for 5 hour or at 1900°C for 1 hour under an inert atmosphere, and they exhibited a high strength retention (97%) after exposure at 1300°C for 1 hour under air. The high‐temperature stability and creep resistance of the fibers were comparable to that of commercial Hi‐Nicalon S and Tyranno SA fibers.
Emphasizing excellence and diversity cues on university websites: Additive or interactive effects on prospective students' psychological reactions?
Authors: Ihme Toni Alexander , Stürmer Stefan
Published: December 2017

A series of three web‐based scenario experiments investigated how emphasizing excellence and/or diversity on university websites affects students' psychological reactions toward the advertising institution. Our findings form a robust pattern suggesting that emphasizing excellence and emphasizing diversity have additive (rather than interactive or mutually interfering) effects. Two studies (N = 346 and N = 128) showed that the effects of emphasizing excellence and diversity arise from different psychological processes related to important aspects of student applicants' expectations about how well they “fit in” and how well the institution will meet their needs. Study 3 (N = 363), using a within‐subject design, further corroborated that participants preferred universities whose websites emphasized both excellence as well as diversity. Practical implications and directions for future research are discussed.
Effects of pioglitazone treatment on blood leptin levels in patients with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Ida Satoshi , Murata Kazuya , Kaneko Ryutaro
Published: December 2017

Aims/Introduction

The aim of the present study was to carry out a meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that investigated the effects of pioglitazone on blood leptin levels in patients with type 2 diabetes.

Materials and Methods

Literature searches were carried out using Medline, the Cochrane Controlled Trials Registry and ClinicalTrials.gov, and RCTs that investigated the effects of pioglitazone on blood leptin levels in patients with type 2 diabetes were selected. Standardized mean differences and 95% confidence intervals were calculated.

Results

A total of 10 RCTs met the eligibility criteria and were included in the meta‐analysis. Significantly lower blood leptin levels were observed in the pioglitazone group (standardized mean difference −0.58, 95% confidence interval −1.12 to −0.05%, P = 0.03) than in the placebo group. There was no significant difference in blood leptin levels observed between the pioglitazone and oral antidiabetic drug groups (standardized mean difference −0.01, 95% confidence interval −0.20 to 0.19%, P = 0.93).

Conclusions

There was a significant difference in blood leptin levels between the pioglitazone and placebo groups. However, relatively few RCTs were included in the study, and there was a high level of statistical heterogeneity; we believe that this could have affected the results.
Assessing dutasteride‐associated sexual dysfunction using the U.S. Food and Drug Administration Adverse Event Reporting System
Authors: Gupta A.K. , Carviel J. , Gupta M.A. , Shear N.H.
Published: December 2017

Background

Incidences of sexual dysfunction due to the use of 5 α‐reductase inhibitors have been suggested. Despite low sexual dysfunction reported in clinical trials, an analysis of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) database revealed a significant disproportionality in the reporting of sexual dysfunction with the use of finasteride. Therefore, it is likely that a similar relationship with dutasteride may exist.

Objective

To determine whether dutasteride use leads to a higher risk of sexual dysfunction compared to a baseline risk for all other drugs using the FAERS database.

Methods

A case by non‐case disproportionality approach was used whereby a reporting odds ratio (ROR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) was calculated. Cases of dutasteride‐associated sexual dysfunction were compared to a reference risk of sexual dysfunction for all other drugs in the database.

Results

A significant disproportionality in reporting of sexual dysfunction with the use of dutasteride was observed. The disproportionality was present for all age ranges except for 31–45 years where there were few overall reports of adverse events.

Limitations

Adverse events can be underreported, and selection bias is inherent in the FAERS.

Conclusion

Dutasteride use is associated with an increase in reports of sexual dysfunction.