bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Playing with science
Authors: Greenhill Anita , Holmes Kate , Woodcock Jamie , Lintott Chris , Simmons Brooke D , Graham Gary , Cox Joe , Oh Eun Young , Masters Karen
Published: May 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to examine intrinsic forms of motivation and particular incidents of play, socialisation, fun and amusement on an online crowdsourced citizen science platform. The paper also investigates gamised activity (Greenhill et al., 2014) as a form of intrinsic motivation adding a sense of play to work and tasks (Xu et al., 2012). These concepts are explored through close scrutiny of the online citizen science platform Zooniverse.org.

Design/methodology/approach

– Qualitative techniques with an interpretivist approach are used to analyse online content found within citizen science platforms, related forums and social media by examining incidents of play, socialisation, fun and amusement to investigate how these aspects are applied as a form of user motivation.

Findings

– The authors find that when users classify crowdsourced tasks voluntarily it does not matter how users are classifying as long as it is accurately. However, what does matter is why they are doing it particularly because of the complex processes that builds relationships between users and the platform. The authors present a conceptual model to enable deeper understandings of how forms of social interaction and play are motivating users contributing to citizen science project to participate in the online processes.

Practical implications

– The findings of this paper provide practical implications for how citizen science, and also other crowdsourcing platforms, can engage with notions of play and gamification to motivate participation.

Originality/value

– Using detailed examples of online content, the authors reveal how participants of the Zooniverse.org demonstrate aspects of “gamised” behaviour. The authors argue that the exploration of gaming as well as play provides evidence that contributing to citizen science projects can be both utilitarian and hedonic.
The employment effects of offshoring: evidence from Korean manufacturing
Authors: Yoon Sang-Chul
Published: May 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to analyze the offshoring-employment relationship under globalization in Korean manufacturing for the period from 1998 to 2010 using industry-level panel data and Generalized Method of Moments.

Design/methodology/approach

– For the first time in the literature the type of trade specialization is taken into account, distinguishing manufacturing between export-specialized and import-specialized industries.

Findings

– There is evidence that materials and services offshoring have a significantly negative effect on employment in export-specialized industries. In contrast, there is a non-significant association in import-specialized industries.

Research limitations/implications

– These results may cast new light on the offshoring-employment relationship.

Originality/value

– Major contribution of this paper is that it sheds new light on the effect of offshoring on employment by distinguishing export-specialized industries from import-specialized industries.
Characterization of fine and ultrafine particles in air near a steel making plant: an Italian case
Authors: Rada Elena C. , Lodi Marco , Teoldi Federico , Ragazzi Marco , Rossi Barbara
Published: May 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to contribute to the qualitative and quantitative knowledge on ultrafine particles in air near a steel making plant located in an Italian site.

Design/methodology/approach

– A combination of experimental methodologies was used for the online and offline monitoring and chemical characterization of particulate matter (PM) in the air near the plant. Two unfiltered twin-sampling systems were adopted, working when the plant was on/off. All condensed air samples were submitted to Ion Chromatography analysis. The same samples were submitted to acid digestion before Graphite Furnace Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy Analysis. Continuous daily PM10 samples were collected to characterize ambient air. PM10 samples were also analysed to estimate metals content. The PM size distribution was achieved by continuous online monitoring. The adopted ultrafine particulate monitor classifies particles in the range 20-200 nm. The overall size distribution was inferred from an Optical Particulate Counter able to classify particles in the range 0.3-10 µm.

Findings

– The obtained results show that no causal relationship can be found between the measurements of anions and metal in the air near the plant under investigation and the presence of the steel making plant. The trend in emissions of micro-particles was found quite characteristic of similar semi-urban areas.

Originality/value

– The paper demonstrates that a steel making plant adopting best available techniques could have a local impact compatible with the surrounding environment.
Global warming potential and sustainable management of three land uses in Varanasi
Authors: Sharma Shikha , Pandey Divya , Agrawal Madhoolika
Published: May 2016

Purpose

– Varanasi, an ancient city has witnessed the conversion of forest into agricultural lands. The high urbanization rate along with affluent lifestyle is adding another category of land use, i.e. landfill. Such land use changes significantly affect the fluxes of greenhouse gases (GHGs) from soil thus contributing to global warming. The purpose of this paper is to quantify the global warming potential (GWP) of the three land uses in Varanasi city taking into consideration CH4 and CO2.The paper also highlights the land use pattern of Varanasi.

Design/methodology/approach

– Sites representing land uses under forest, agriculture and landfill were identified in and around the city and measurements of GHG fluxes were conducted periodically using closed static chambers. The GWP from each land use was calculated using the standard formula of IPCC (2007).

Findings

– Landfill was found to be the land use with the highest GWP followed by agriculture. GWP from forest was negative. The study indicated that conversion of natural ecosystems into man made ecosystems contributed significantly to GHGs emissions.

Research limitations/implications

– The present research is a seasonal study with inherent uncertainties. To reduce the uncertainties long-term monitoring covering wider spatial area is required.

Practical implications

– The sustainable use of land along with the increment of forest cover will not only reduce the contribution in GHGs emission, but will also increase the carbon sequestrations thus limiting the implication of climate change.

Originality/value

– This study is the first of its kind comparing the soil borne emissions from three different land uses in a rapidly urbanizing ancient city, suggesting if there is rapid conversion of forested land into other two land uses there will be considerable increase in global warming. No similar studies could be found in the literature.
The application of Delphi and AHP method in environmentally conscious solid waste treatment and disposal technology selection
Authors: Kharat Manoj Govind , Raut Rakesh D , Kamble Sachin S , Kamble Sheetal Jaisingh
Published: May 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to describe an application of Multi-Criteria Decision Making (MCDM) technique for the selection of waste treatment and disposal technology for municipal solid waste (MSW).

Design/methodology/approach

– The proposed approach is based on the integration of Delphi and Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) techniques. A model has been proposed to evaluate the best treatment and disposal technology. Expert opinions have been incorporated in the selection of criteria. AHP has been used to determine the weights of criteria, followed by ranking of the available technologies.

Findings

– Delphi method was used to derive appropriate evaluation criteria to assess the potential alternative technologies. A set of identified holistic criteria was used, representing the environmental, social, and economic aspects, as compared to the sub-criteria concept generally found in existing literature. Quantitative weightings from the AHP model were calculated to identify the priorities of alternatives. The study provides a simple framework for technology selection as compared to the complex models present in the literature, reducing the uncertainty, cost and time consumed in the decision-making process.

Practical implications

– The model identifies the optimal technologies for the handling, treatment and disposal of MSW in a better economic and more environmentally sustainable way. The study provides a simple framework for selection as compared to the complex models present in the literature, reducing the uncertainty, cost and time taken by the decision-making process.

Originality/value

– The paper highlights a new insight into MCDM techniques to select an optimum treatment and disposal technology suitable for MSW management in India. The study identifies a minimal relevant set of evaluation criteria, and appropriate technologies for the handling, treatment, and disposal of MSW in a more economic and environmentally sustainable way.
Analysis of plane waves in anisotropic piezothermoelastic diffusive medium
Authors: Kumar Rajneesh , Sharma Poonam
Published: May 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to study the propagation of harmonic plane waves in a homogeneous anisotropic piezothermoelastic diffusive medium.

Design/methodology/approach

– After developing the mathematical model and theoretical analysis of the problem, computational work has been performed to study the different characteristics of the plane harmonic waves.

Findings

– The existence of waves namely, quasi-longitudinal wave (QP), quasi-thermal wave and quasi-mass diffusion wave have been found which propagates in an anisotropic piezothermoelastic diffusive medium. The different characteristics of waves like phase velocity and attenuation quality factor are computed numerically and presented graphically to show the piezoelectric effect.

Originality/value

– A significant piezoelectric effects have been observed on the different characteristics of the waves in an anisotropic piezothermoelastic diffusive medium.
A new method for structural non-probabilistic reliability analysis based on interval analysis
Authors: Gou Xing-wang , Li Ai-jun , Luo La-quan , Wang Chang-qing
Published: May 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to propose a robust reliability index to characterize the structural safety degree.

Design/methodology/approach

– On the basis of the interval theory, a new interval reliability analysis method that the structural basic variables are described by the interval lower limit and interval length to characterize the structural uncertainty is proposed in this paper.

Findings

– A novel structural reliability index solution method is proposed. Besides, both linear and non-linear problem of solving interval non-probabilistic reliability are further discussed in this paper.

Originality/value

– Based on interval theory, variables are described by interval lower limit and interval length to characterize the structural uncertainty. A novel structural reliability index solution method is proposed.
Value chain analysis: an iterative and relational approach for agri-food chains
Authors: Howieson Janet , Lawley Meredith , Hastings Kathleen
Published: May 2016

Purpose

Value Chain Analysis (VCA) is established as a diagnostic tool. The purpose of this study is to extend existing applications and develop an iterative and relational method. to facilitate the application of VCA to agri-food chains as a strategic process rather than a diagnostic tool.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a multiple case study design, the new approach to VCA was applied to four Australian prawn fisheries. These fisheries varied in size, location, management structures and marketing arrangements and allowed the general applicability of the approach to be explored.

Findings

The application of the revised VCA revealed the importance of undertaking a strategic approach, with the outcome for all fisheries being a greater understanding of their consumers and an enhanced realisation of commercial opportunities. Two fisheries completed the revised VCA, and the findings show that a relational approach is crucial in creating value. In addition, it was shown that formalised structures and the informal behaviours of the value chain members have a strong positive impact on the relationship process.

Research limitations/implications

The research furthers the value chain literature and contributes an iterative approach to the application of VCA. The research also shows that obtaining improvements is not achievable for all chains, and, if the entire chain is not engaged with the process, the value of the results will be compromised. Further research is needed to confirm the validity of findings in other food industries.

Originality/value

The relational approach is an original contribution to the area of VCA research and provides industry with a blueprint for creating successful value chains. Specifically, the areas of implementation and evaluation make an original contribution to the theoretical and practical knowledge of value chains.
Trade credit dynamics during the phases of the business cycle – a value chain perspective
Authors: Lorentz Harri , Solakivi Tomi , Töyli Juuso , Ojala Lauri
Published: May 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide evidence of how the business cycle affects net-trade-credit and its components in firms on different tiers of the value chain, including retail, wholesale and two consecutive manufacturing tiers.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected by the means of four surveys in the years 2006, 2009, 2012 and 2014, representing different phases of the business cycle, that is, from strong economic growth to a deep recession and on to slow recovery and finally into decline. Descriptive statistics and three ANOVA models were used in the analysis of the data.

Findings

The distinctive profile of each value chain tier appears to have an effect on tier-specific trade credit dynamics. Overall, upstream positioned firms and small firms are likely to experience a decline in the net-trade-credit during uncertain economic times. The type of task interdependence between tiers also appears to affect trade credit dynamics in some tiers of the value chain. Furthermore, initiated by recession, certain trade credit dynamics in the value chain suggest a mechanism that transmits an increased working capital burden from customers to suppliers along the value chain.

Research limitations/implications

Results are based on survey research with a limited amount of respondents and geographical coverage, implying limited generalisability. The use of implicit measures limits the conclusiveness of the research.

Originality/value

The conventional perception of the power-based determination of trade credit policies is complemented with a value chain-related task interdependence perspective. The results of this paper also highlight that a more holistic value chain perceptive on working capital management would be more sustainable in comparison to firm-centric approaches.
Outcomes of therapeutic community treatment for personality disorder
Authors: Capone Georgina , Schroder Thomas , Clarke Simon , Braham Louise
Published: May 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to review quantitative research since 1999 evaluating the effectiveness of democratic therapeutic community (DTC) treatment for individuals with personality disorders (PD) with reference to interpersonal and offending risk outcomes.

Design/methodology/approach

– A systematic search resulted in the review of ten studies. All of the studies investigated DTCs treating PD in community, inpatient residential and forensic settings. Only peer-reviewed, English-language articles employing a quantitative design were included.

Findings

– The majority of studies were conducted poorly and of low methodological quality, with limitations located in the representativeness of participants, limited use of control and comparison groups, follow up periods and controls for confounders. Heterogeneity remained in use of measures and limited consideration was given to the validity of interpersonal measures used. While improved interpersonal outcomes post DTC treatment were noted in forensic and residential settings, results were mixed in day and mini TC settings. Inconsistent findings in offending risk outcomes were also indicated. A study with increased methodological rigour indicated residential treatment had limited effects on interpersonal outcomes, when compared to combination treatment (residential TC and step-down treatment).

Originality/value

– The study provided an evaluation of the limitations of DTC research across a range of settings and highlighted a combination of residential TC and step-down treatment may achieve superior outcomes to residential TC treatment alone in a community inpatient population. Recommendations are made for future research to contribute to the treatment of PD.
Atypical speech and language development: a consensus study on clinical signs in the Netherlands
Authors: Visser‐Bochane Margot I. , Gerrits Ellen , van der Schans Cees P. , Reijneveld Sijmen A. , Luinge Margreet R.
Published: May 2016

Background

Atypical speech and language development is one of the most common developmental difficulties in young children. However, which clinical signs characterize atypical speech–language development at what age is not clear.

Aim

To achieve a national and valid consensus on clinical signs and red flags (i.e. most urgent clinical signs) for atypical speech–language development in children from 1 to 6 years of age.

Methods & Procedures

A two‐round Delphi study in the Netherlands with a national expert panel (n = 24) of speech and language therapists was conducted. The panel members responded to web‐based questionnaires addressing clinical signs. Consensus was defined as ≥ 70% of the experts agreeing on an issue.

Outcomes & Results

The first round resulted in a list of 161 characteristics of atypical speech and language development. The second round led to agreement on 124 clinical signs and 34 red flags.

Conclusions & Implications

Dutch national consensus concerns 17–23 clinical signs per age year for the description of an atypical speech–language development in young children and three to 10 characteristics per age year being red flags for atypical speech–language development. This consensus contributes to early identification and diagnosis of children with atypical speech–language development, awareness and research.
Characteristics of Depreciation in Commercial and Multifamily Property: An Investment Perspective
Authors: Bokhari Sheharyar , Geltner David
Published: May 2016

This article reports empirical evidence on the nature and magnitude of real depreciation in commercial and multifamily investment properties in the United States. The article is based on a much larger and more comprehensive database than prior studies of depreciation in such properties, and it is based on actual transaction prices rather than appraisal estimates of property or building structure values. The article puts forth an “investment perspective” on depreciation, which differs from the tax policy perspective that has dominated the previous literature in the United States. From the perspective of the fundamentals of investment performance, depreciation is measured as a fraction of total property value, not just structure value, and it is oriented toward cash flow and market value metrics of investment performance such as internal rate of return and holding period return. Depreciation from this perspective includes all three age‐related sources of long‐term secular decline in real value: physical, functional and economic obsolescence of the building structure. The analysis based on 107,805 transaction price observations finds an overall average depreciation rate of 1.5%/year, ranging from 1.82%/year for properties with new buildings to 1.12%/year for properties with 50‐year‐old buildings. Apartment properties depreciate slightly faster than nonresidential commercial properties. Depreciation is caused almost entirely by decline in the property's current real income, only secondarily by increase in the capitalization rate (“cap rate creep”). Depreciation rates vary considerably across metropolitan areas, with areas characterized by space market supply constraints exhibiting notably less depreciation. This is particularly true when the supply constraints are caused by physical land scarcity as distinct from regulatory constraints. Commercial real estate asset market pricing, as indicated by transaction cap rates, is importantly related to depreciation differences across metro areas.
Protective Effect of Cod (Gadus macrocephalus) Skin Collagen Peptides on Acetic Acid‐Induced Gastric Ulcer in Rats
Authors: Niu Huina , Wang Zhicong , Hou Hu , Zhang Zhaohui , Li Bafang
Published: May 2016

This research was performed to explore the protective effect of cod skin collagen peptides (CCP) on gastric ulcer induced by acetic acid. The CCP were fractionated into low molecular CCP (LMCCP, Mw < 3 kDa) and high molecular CCP (HMCCP, Mw > 3 kDa). In HMCCP and LMCCP, glycine of accounted for about one‐third of the total amino acids without cysteine and tryptophan, and hydrophobic amino acids accounted for about 50%. After 21 d CCP treatment (60 or 300 mg/kg, p.o./daily), the healing effects on acetic acid‐induced gastric ulcers were evaluated by macroscopic measure, microscopic measure, and immune histochemistry. Moreover, the expression levels of the growth factors, such as vascular endothelial growth factor, epidermal growth factor, transforming growth factor β1 (TGFβ1), and the heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) was detected. The results showed that both LMCCP and HMCCP could significantly decrease the ulcer areas and promote the healing of the lesions. They also could improve the levels of hexosamine, glutathione, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione peroxidase, and reduce the content of malondialdehyde and inducible nitric oxide synthase. In addition, the expression level of TGFβ1 gene and HSP70 mRNA was significantly improved by the treatment. It suggested that CCP could be able to improve symptoms of gastric ulcer and probably be used in the treatment of gastric ulcer.
Modified Dietary Fiber from Cassava Pulp and Assessment of Mercury Bioaccessibility and Intestinal Uptake Using an In Vitro Digestion/Caco‐2 Model System
Authors: Kachenpukdee Natta , Santerre Charles R. , Ferruzzi Mario G. , Oonsivilai Ratchadaporn
Published: May 2016

The ability of modified dietary fiber (MDF) generated from cassava pulp to modulate the bioaccessibility and intestinal absorption of heavy metals may be helpful to mitigate health risk associated with select foods including select fish high in methyl mercury. Using a coupled in vitro digestion/Caco‐2 human intestinal cell model, the reduction of fish mercury bioaccessibility and intestinal uptake by MDF was investiaged. MDF was prepared from cassava pulp, a byproduct of tapioca production. The highest yield (79.68%) of MDF was obtained by enzymatic digestion with 0.1% α‐amylase (w/v), 0.1% amyloglucosidase (v/v) and 1% neutrase (v/v). MDF and fish tissue were subjected to in vitro digestion and results suggest that MDF may reduce mercury bioaccessibility from fish to 34% to 85% compared to control in a dose‐dependent manner. Additionally, accumulation of mercury from digesta containing fish and MDF was only modestly impacted by the presence of MDF. In conclusion, MDF prepared from cassava pulp may be useful as an ingredient to reduce mercury bioavailability from food such as fish specifically by inhibiting mercury transfer to the bioaccessibile fraction during digestion.
Predictive Value of Exercise Stress Test–Induced ST–Segment Changes in Leads V1 and avR in Determining Angiographic Coronary Involvement
Authors: Ghaffari Samad , Asadzadeh Reza , Tajlil Arezou , Mohammadalian Amirhossein , Pourafkari Leili
Published: May 2016

Background

The significance of electrocardiographic changes during exercise tolerance testing for distinguishing occluded artery is not well known. We tried to determine the role of ST elevation in leads aVR and V1 during exercise in detecting stenosis of left main coronary artery and proximal left anterior descending artery.

Methods

ST segment changes during exercise in 230 patients, who underwent diagnostic angiography, were documented. The association of ST elevation in lead aVR, V1, leads aVR + V1, and STE in leads aVR + V1 with ST depression in other leads with pattern of coronary stenosis were investigated.

Results

Left main and proximal left anterior artery stenosis were more common in patients with ST elevation in lead aVR (P < 0.001 for both). Similar association was found in the presence of ST elevation in lead V1. The presence of ST elevation ≥1 mm in lead aVR had a sensitivity of 100% and 94.3% for detecting left main and left anterior descending artery stenosis, respectively. The specificity was 33.5% and 26.6%, respectively. ST elevation in leads aVR + V1 had a sensitivity of 74.4% and 65.9% and a specificity of 68.5% and 64.4% for detecting left main and left anterior descending arteries stenosis, respectively.

Conclusion

ST elevation in lead aVR is highly sensitive for left main and proximal left anterior descending artery lesions. Using ST elevation in lead V1 in addition to lead aVR as a positive finding increases the specificity with a further decrease in sensitivity.
Adolescent self‐harm and risk factors
Authors: Zhang Jixiang , Song Jianwei , Wang Jing
Published: May 2016

Objective

This study aims to define the characteristics of adolescents who have engaged in self‐harm behavior and ascertain the risk factors.

Methods

From January 2013 to January 2014, 4,176 adolescents from senior middle schools in Linyi, China, were administered four questionnaire surveys to ascertain the following: incidence of self‐harm behavior regarding the frequency of different self‐harm behaviors by group (never/one to five times/greater than five times in the last 6 months) and then comparing the self‐harm behavior of the different subgroups; symptom self‐check, comparing the differences between the adolescents with self‐harm behavior and without in nine subscales (somatization, obsessive‐compulsive symptoms, interpersonal sensitivity, depression, anxiety, hostility, fear, paranoid, and psychosis); Adolescent Self‐Rating Life Events Check List scores; and Egna Minnenav Barndoms Uppfostran (EMBU) scores. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to determine the risk factors of self‐harm in adolescents.

Results

The incidence of adolescent self‐harm was 27.60%; the occurrence of adolescent self‐harm was closely related to their mental health status, stressful life events, and EMBU. Being female, an urban student, or an only child; having poor school performance or experiences of stressful life events, harsh parenting styles, or excessive interference; and poor mental health were the risk factors for adolescent self‐harm.

Conclusions

The incidence of adolescent self‐harm was high, and their mental health status, stressful life events, and EMBU affected the occurrence of adolescent self‐harm, which is an issue that needs greater attention.
Efficacy of the GemOx‐R regimen leads to the identification of Oxaliplatin as a highly effective drug against Mantle Cell Lymphoma
Authors: Obrador‐Hevia Antònia , Serra‐Sitjar Margalida , Rodríguez José , Belayachi Lamiae , Bento Leyre , García‐Recio Marta , Sánchez Jose María , Villalonga Priam , Gutiérrez Antonio , Fernández de Mattos Silvia
Published: May 2016

Mantle Cell Lymphoma (MCL) is an aggressive lymphoma subtype that accounts for 6–8% of non‐Hodgkin lymphomas. The disease is mostly incurable and characterized by a continuous pattern of relapse. Major changes have recently been implemented in the management of MCL, but continuous relapses still mark this disease as a challenge for clinicians. We previously reported the efficacy of GemOx‐R (Gemcitabine, Oxaliplatin and Rituximab) in patients with refractory and relapsing MCL. We present results for a larger series with longer follow‐up and including high‐risk frontline patients, showing an overall response rate of 83%. The efficacy of each component of GemOx‐R was evaluated in a panel of MCL cell lines. Also, patient‐derived primary cells were used in ex vivo experiments. The results show that oxaliplatin has a profound effect on cellular viability and is the most effective drug within this regimen. We further present synergistic efficacy of oxaliplatin combined with cytarabine in MCL cells. Interestingly, this synergistic effect was not seen when cisplatin and cytarabine were combined, indicating that among the platinum‐derived agents oxaliplatin may be the preferred approach. Taken together our findings suggest that oxaliplatin alone or combined with cytarabine could constitute an alternative backbone for MCL regimens.
Type D personality is related to severity of acute coronary syndrome in patients with recurrent cardiovascular disease
Authors: Garcia‐Retamero Rocio , Petrova Dafina , Arrebola‐Moreno Antonio , Catena Andrés , Ramírez‐Hernández José A.
Published: May 2016

Objectives

To investigate the relationship between Type D (distressed) personality and cardiac biomarkers of disease severity in patients with acute coronary syndrome. To identify potential mechanisms behind the effect of Type D personality on cardiovascular disease (CVD).

Design

Cross‐sectional.

Methods

Patients (N = 215) with acute coronary syndrome completed a survey including a measure of Type D personality. Blood samples including a lipid profile and cardiac enzymes were taken within 3 days after the cardiovascular event. Data were analysed using simple correlations, multiple regressions, and mediation analyses.

Results

Type D personality was more predictive of severity of the acute coronary syndrome among patients with previous CVD compared to patients without previous CVD. Among patients with previous CVD, Type D personality was associated with the presence of ST elevation (R2 =.07) and more damage to the myocardium as indicated by higher troponin‐I (R2 = .05) and myoglobin (R2 = .07) levels. These effects were independent from demographics, CV risk factors, and depression. Lower HDL cholesterol levels mediated the relationship between Type D personality and disease severity (Κ2 = .12 [95% CI 0.02, 0.28]) for myoglobin and Κ2 = .08 [95% CI 0.01, 0.21] for troponin‐I).

Conclusion

Type D personality was related to a worse lipid profile and more severe acute coronary syndrome in patients with previous history of CVD. Given the strong relationship between disease severity and subsequent mortality, these results suggest that severity of the myocardial infarction may be a potential mechanism explaining increased mortality in Type D patients with recurrent CVD.

Statement of contribution

What is already known on this subject?

Type D personality has been related to worse outcomes in cardiac patients.

However, recent studies show mixed results, suggesting the need to clarify potential mechanisms.

What does this study add?

Type D personality is related to severity of acute coronary syndrome in patients with previous history of cardiovascular disease.

This effect is partially accounted for by lower HDL levels in Type D patients.

Disease severity is a potential mechanism by which Type D personality may affect cardiovascular health of patients with recurrent CVD.
Life events and functional somatic symptoms: A population study in older adolescents
Authors: Bonvanie Irma J. , Janssens Karin A. M. , Rosmalen Judith G. M. , Oldehinkel Albertine J.
Published: May 2016

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of negative life events on functional somatic symptoms (FSSs) in adolescents, based on data from 957 participants of the population cohort TRacking Adolescents’ Individual Lives Survey. Life events experienced between age 16 and age 19 were assessed with the Kendler's Life Stress interview. FSSs at age 19 and age 16 were measured with the Youth and Adult Self‐Report. The hypotheses were tested by the use of a latent change model. Life events predicted FSSs, even when adjusted for pre‐event levels of FSSs, symptoms of anxiety and depression, and socio‐economic status (B = 0.006, 95% CI [0.003, 0.008], β = .32). Whereas illness‐related life events did not predict FSSs independently (B = −0.003, 95% CI [−0.005, 0.09], β = .05), non‐illness‐related life events did (B = 0.007, 95% CI [0.004, 0.010], β = .31). A past‐year diagnosis of anxiety and/or depression had a significant influence on the association between life events and FSSs (B = 0.37, 95% CI [0.30, 0.46], β = .71), while female sex, exposure to childhood adversities, and family malfunctioning had not. In conclusion, our findings show that FSSs are associated with negative life events in older adolescents. We did not find evidence for stronger effects of illness‐related events.
Estimating the risks and benefits of active surveillance protocols for prostate cancer: a microsimulation study
Authors: de Carvalho Tiago M. , Heijnsdijk Eveline A.M. , de Koning Harry J.
Published: May 2016

Objective

To estimate the increase in prostate cancer mortality (PCM) and the reduction in overtreatment resulting from different active surveillance (AS) protocols, compared with treating men immediately.

Patients and Methods

We used a microsimulation model (MISCAN‐Prostate), with the natural history of prostate cancer based on European Randomized Study of Screening for Prostate Cancer data. We estimated the probabilities of referral to radical treatment while on AS, depending on disease stage, using data from the Johns Hopkins AS cohort. We sampled 10 million men, representative of the US population, and projected the effects of applying AS protocols that differed by time between biopsies and compared these with the effects of treating men immediately.

Results

We found that AS with yearly follow‐up biopsies for men with low‐risk prostate cancer (≤ T2a stage and Gleason 6) increases the probability of PCM to 2.6% (1% increase) and reduces overtreatment from 2.5 to 2.1% (18.4% reduction). With biopsies every 3 years after the first year, PCM increases by 2.3% and overtreatment reduces from 2.5 to 1.9% (30.3% reduction). The inclusion of men in the intermediate‐risk group (> T2a stage or Gleason 3+4) in AS protocols increases PCM by 2.7% and reduces overtreatment from 2.5 to 2.0% (23.1% reduction). These results may not apply to African‐American men.

Conclusions

Offering AS to men with low‐risk prostate cancer is relatively safe. Increasing the biopsy interval from yearly to up to every 3 years after the first year will significantly reduce overtreatment among men in the low‐risk group, with limited PCM risk.
The Social and Emotional Lives of Overweight, Obese, and Severely Obese Children
Authors: Harrist Amanda W. , Swindle Taren M. , Hubbs‐Tait Laura , Topham Glade L. , Shriver Lenka H. , Page Melanie C.
Published: May 2016

This study examines inter‐ and intrapersonal problems associated with being overweight among one thousand one hundred sixty‐four 6‐ to 7‐year‐olds (49% boys) in 29 rural schools. Socioemotional data include child self‐reports, peer sociometrics, and teacher reports. Results support the hypothesis that children with weight problems struggle socially and emotionally, and extend current understanding of child obesity by demonstrating that problems appear early, are evident in a community sample, can be identified using standard sociometric methods, and are worse among children with severe obesity. Sociometric status difference between levels of obesity were also found. Although obese children were neglected by peers, severely obese children were rejected.
Oral contraceptives versus physical exercise on cardiovascular and metabolic risk factors in women with polycystic ovary syndrome: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Orio F. , Muscogiuri G. , Giallauria F. , Savastano S. , Bottiglieri P. , Tafuri D. , Predotti P. , Colarieti G. , Colao A. , Palomba S.
Published: May 2016

Background

Although oral contraceptives (OCs) are one the most widespread therapy in young polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) women and physical exercise represents a crucial first step in the treatment of overweight and obese PCOS, no studies were performed to compare the effects on cardiovascular risk (CVR) of OCs and physical exercise in PCOS.

Objective

To compare the effects of OCs administration and physical exercise on the CVR, clinical, hormonal and metabolic parameters in PCOS women.

Methods

One hundred and fifty PCOS women were enrolled and were randomized to OCs (3 mg drospirenone plus 30 μg ethinyloestradiol), structured exercise training programme (SETP) or polyvitamin tablets. The intervention phase study was of 6 months. Primary outcome was intima–media thickness (IMT) and flow‐mediated dilation (FMD). Secondary outcomes were clinical, hormonal and metabolic changes.

Results

A significant reduction of IMT and a significant increase of FMD were observed in the SETP group after treatment. Compared to baseline, in the SETP group, a significant improvement in anthropometric measures, insulin sensitivity indexes, lipid profile, cardiopulmonary function, inflammatory markers and frequency of menses was observed. Oral contraceptives use was associated with a significant decrease of hyperandrogenism and a significant improvement of frequency of menses. Further, OCs use had a neutral effect on CVR risk factors.

Conclusion

OCs effectively treat hyperandrogenism and menstrual disturbances, while SETP is more effective in improving cardiometabolic profile and cardiopulmonary function in PCOS.
Impact of Autologous Mesenchymal Stem Cell Infusion on Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorder: A Pilot, 2‐Year Observational Study
Authors: Fu Ying , Yan Yaping , Qi Yuan , Yang Li , Li Ting , Zhang Ningnannan , Yu Chunshui , Su Lei , Zhang Rui , Shen Yi , Lin Song , Liu Qiang , Shao Zonghong , Han Zhongchao , Shi Fu‐Dong
Published: May 2016

Aims

We evaluate safety and efficacy of autologous bone marrow‐derived mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) as a potential treatment for neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD).

Methods

Fifteen patients with NMOSD were recruited. All patients received a single intravenous infusion of 1.0 × 108 autologous MSC within 3–4 generations derived from bone marrow. The primary endpoints of the study were efficacy as reflected by reduction in annualized relapse rates (ARRs) and inflammatory lesions observed by MRI.

Results

At 12 months after MSC infusion, the mean ARR was reduced (1.1 vs. 0.3, P = 0.002), and the T2 or gadolinium‐enhancing T1 lesions decreased in the optic nerve and spinal cord. Disability in these patients was reduced (EDSS, 4.3 vs. 4.9, P = 0.021; visual acuity, 0.4 vs. 0.5, P = 0.007). The patients had an increase in retinal nerve fiber layer thickness, optic nerve diameters and upper cervical cord area. We did not identify any serious MSC‐related adverse events. At 24 months of MSC infusion, of 15 patients, 13 patients (87%) remained relapse‐free, the mean ARR decreased to 0.1; the disability of 6 patients (40%) was improved, and the mean EDSS decreased to 4.0.

Conclusions

This pilot trial demonstrates that MSC infusion is safe, reduces the relapse frequency, and mitigates neurological disability with neural structures in the optic nerve and spinal cord recover in patients with NMOSD. The beneficial effect of MSC infusion on NMOSD was maintained, at least to some degree, throughout a 2‐year observational period.
miR‐375 controls porcine pancreatic stem cell fate by targeting 3‐phosphoinositide–dependent protein kinase‐1 (Pdk1)
Authors: Hu Shuxian , Zhang Mingzhi , Sun Fen , Ren Lipeng , He Xin , Hua Jinlian , Peng Sha
Published: May 2016

Objectives

miR‐375 is one of the highly expressed microRNAs (miRNAs) found in pancreatic islets of both humans and mice. In this study, we investigated functions of miRNA miR‐375 in porcine pancreatic stem cells (PSC).

Materials and methods

We transfected mimic and inhibitor of miR‐375 in PSCs to measure functional roles of the microRNA and its effects on cell cycle proliferation and cell differentiation were determined. Luciferase assays were also performed to reveal the target gene of miR‐375.

Results

Overexpression of miR‐375 suppressed proliferation, promoted apoptosis and inhibited differentiation into islet‐like cells. PDK1 was identified as being a target of miR‐375. Furthermore, we found that overexpression of miR‐375 inhibited activation of the PDK1‐AKT signalling pathway.

Conclusion

miR‐375 directly targeted PDK1 in porcine PSCs, suppressing cell proliferation and differentiation into islet‐like cells.
Early lymphocyte recovery predicts superior outcomes after unmanipulated haploidentical blood and marrow transplant for acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Fu Qiang , Xu Lan‐Ping , Zhang Xiao‐Hui , Wang Yu , Chang Ying‐Jun , Huang Xiao‐Jun
Published: May 2016

We investigated whether early lymphocyte recovery, after unmanipulated haploidentical blood and marrow transplant (HBMT), affected clinical outcomes in 134 patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Lymphocyte recovery was based on the absolute lymphocyte count on day 30 (ALC‐30). Patients with high ALC‐30 (≥294 cells/μL) had higher overall survival (OS) (77.6% vs 59.7%, P=.020) and higher leukemia‐free survival (LFS) (74.6% vs 53.7%, P=.016) than those with low ALC‐30 values. Multivariate analysis demonstrated that a high ALC‐30 was associated with improved overall survival (HR: 0.443, 95% CI: 0.233–0.841; P=.013) and LFS (HR: 0.499, 95% CI: 0.275–0.906; P=.022). Our results suggest that the ALC‐30 can predict a superior outcome after unmanipulated HBMT.
In vivo recombination efficiency of two site‐specific recombination systems, VCre/VloxP and SCre/SloxP, in medaka (Oryzias latipes)
Authors: Kishimoto Kenta , Nakayama Manabu , Kinoshita Masato
Published: May 2016

The present study delineates the in vivo efficiency of two site‐specific recombination systems, VCre/VloxP and SCre/SloxP, in medaka (Oryzias latipes). VCre, SCre, and Cre RNA was microinjected into fertilized medaka eggs belonging to three transgenic lines harboring VloxP, SloxP, and loxP cassette. VCre induced site‐specific recombination specifically at VloxP sequence and SCre at SloxP sequence without any cross‐reactivity. These findings provide two novel alternative recombination systems in vivo in addition to the existing Cre/loxP and Flp/FRT systems, thus enabling sophisticated gene expression in model organisms.
Misconceptions About the Caliphate in Islam
Authors: Azmeh Wayel
Published: May 2016

Three common misconceptions about the caliphate in Islam are explored alleging: 1) that there has been only one caliph at a given time governing all Muslims, uninterrupted until the caliphate system was abolished in 1924, 2) that caliphs governed vast territories, 3) that God in Islam mandates a blueprint for governance called the caliphate. This essay begins with the role the caliphate played in agendas of Islamic movements over the last 100 years. Then the historic development of the caliphate is discussed providing the background to explore the first two misconceptions. The third misconception is consequently addressed through a linguistic, Qur'anic, and historical analysis of the word “caliphate.” The fact that neither the Qur'an, nor the Prophet saw himself as a head of state is explored, and the misappropriation of the word “constitution” to replace the word “pact” in “the pact of Medina” is pointed out. A simple classification of three types of “caliphates” is suggested, emphasizing the wide range of connotations it conveys. Finally, counterarguments using the Qur'an and Hadith are addressed. The essay concludes with the idea that what makes a state Islamic are not name nor its structure, but rather its orientation towards Qur'anic ethical values.
Operation‐based approach for documenting software architecture knowledge
Authors: Roldán María Luciana , Gonnet Silvio , Leone Horacio
Published: May 2016

Documenting architectural knowledge is a tedious and time‐consuming task from the knowledge producer's point of view. As a consequence, design decisions, the underlying rationale, and the resulting designs are poorly documented. We propose to alleviate this problem by introducing an operation‐based model for documenting software architecture design processes, which makes possible to capture architectural knowledge in a non‐intrusive way as the design process takes place. By means of a flexible model that makes possible the definition and execution of different level's operations, such as operations that enclose patterns and tactics semantics, we ensure codification of general architectural knowledge and enable its recovering to use it in several design projects. From the knowledge consumers' point of view, the model provides tracing capabilities and useful mechanisms for architectural knowledge recovering.
Effect of salinity on mass and energy transport by hydrothermal fluids based on the physical and thermodynamic properties of H2O‐NaCl
Authors: Klyukin Yu. I. , Driesner T. , Steele‐MacInnis M. , Lowell R. P. , Bodnar R. J.
Published: May 2016

Various thermodynamic properties of H2O that are defined as pressure or temperature derivatives of some other variable, such as isothermal compressibility (β, pressure derivative of density), isobaric thermal expansion (α, temperature derivative of density), and specific isobaric heat capacity (cf, temperature derivative of enthalpy), all show large magnitudes near the critical point, reflecting large variations in fluid density and specific enthalpy with small changes in temperature and pressure. As a result, mass (related to fluid density) and energy (related to fluid enthalpy) transport in this PT region are sensitive to changing PT conditions. Addition of NaCl to H2O causes the region of anomalous behavior, here defined as the critical region, to migrate to higher temperatures and pressures. The critical region is defined as that region of PT space in which the dimensionless reduced susceptibility  ≥ 0.5. When NaCl is added to H2O, the critical region migrates to higher temperature and pressure. However, the absolute magnitudes of thermodynamic properties that are defined as temperature and/or pressure derivatives (α, β, and cf) all decrease with increasing salinity. Thus, the mass and energy transporting capacities of hydrothermal fluids in the critical region become less sensitive to changing PT conditions as the salinity increases. For example, quartz solubility can be described as a function of fluid density, and because density becomes less sensitive to changing PT conditions as salinity increases, quartz solubility also becomes less sensitive to changing PT conditions as fluid salinity increases. Similarly, fluxibility describes the ability of a fluid to transport heat by buoyancy‐driven convection, and fluxibility decreases with increasing salinity. Results of this study show that the mass and energy transport capacity of fluids in the Earth's crust are maximized in the critical region and that the sensitivity to changing PT conditions decreases with increasing salinity.