bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The identities of the Ethiopian community in Israel
Authors: Baratz Lea , Kalnisky Esther
Published: March 2017

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the linkage of identity of new and veteran immigrant students of the Ethiopian community in Israel, by examining their attitudes to children’s literature books written simultaneously in Hebrew and Amharic. The data were collected using focus groups of Ethiopian students attending a teacher training college. The main findings revealed that they referred to two major types of identity: one type is an unreconciled identity, characterized by defiance, which seeks to minimize the visibility of one’s ethnic group within the main culture and tries to adopt the hegemonic identity, whereas the other type of identity contains the original ethnic identity and – in contrast to the first type – tries to reconcile it with the hegemonic culture.

Design/methodology/approach

This is a qualitative study, which emphasis was on participants’ attitudes, beliefs and perceptions (Kalka, 2003). The goals of the research were to examine identity perceptions of students of the Beta Israel community, as they are exposed to bilingual literary works in Hebrew and Amharic.

Findings

The main findings revealed that they referred to two major types of identity: one type is an unreconciled identity, characterized by defiance, which seeks to minimize the visibility of one’s ethnic group within the main culture and tries to adopt the hegemonic identity, whereas the other type of identity contains the original ethnic identity and – in contrast to the first type – tries to reconcile it with the hegemonic culture.

Research limitations/implications

This paper has shed light on an important subject and it would be worthwhile to continue the study using other methodologies.

Practical implications

This paper contributes to the structuring of a cultural code that serves to organize social meaning and establish individuals’ identity.

Social implications

This awareness enriches the basis of their own values and allows them to enrich their attitude to their future pupils, for example, to recognize the value of local culture versus that of the immigrants’ place of origin, and to develop an understanding and acceptance of the diversity in the classroom. As they take part in building a multicultural Israeli education framework, dealing with identity patterns is also the key to their own integration in society.

Originality/value

The originality of the study lies in the usage of two new concepts – unreconciled and reconciled – as referring to the immigrants’ identities.
Energy system retrofit in a public services building
Authors: Galvão João Rafael , Moreira Licinio , Gaspar Gonçalo , Vindeirinho Samuel , Leitão Sérgio
Published: March 2017

Purpose

Taking into account the current relevance of the concept of smart city connected with the Internet of Things, this work aims to study the implementation of this concept by applying a new energy model in an existing public building. The purpose of this paper is to enhance the sustainability and energy autonomy of the building.

Design/methodology/approach

The building referred to in the case study is a library, and simulations related to the ongoing study are based on an energy audit, comprising a survey on electrical and thermal energy consumption. The innovative proposed model consists of a mix of energy production processes based on photovoltaic panels and biomass boilers. Economic analysis of the energy model has already yielded some results regarding the payback on investment, as well as avoided emissions in the context of development of a low-carbon economy with avoided emissions and socioeconomic advantages.

Findings

It is possible to enhance the sustainability of the library studied by the retrofit of the current energy system. With the integration of photovoltaic panels and the conversion or replacement of boilers from natural gas to biomass, the GHG emissions could drop around 121 t CO2 per year. Another benefit would be the inclusion of endogenous resources over imported energy resources. The payback period for the measures proposed ranges from 2.5 to 8 years, proving that the increase in environmental sustainability is viable.

Originality/value

The intention here is to implement the concept of smart city, in more sustainable buildings, bringing them to the lowest possible energy consumption levels, hence increasing performance and comfort. Also, taking into account that the energy-consuming buildings are already constructed, it is urgent to reconvert them to lower the use of energy and emissions using technologies based on renewable energy, boosting the use of local resources.
Geochemical speciation and risk assessment of metals in sediments of the Lobo-Broa Reservoir, Brazil
Authors: Cervi Eduardo Cimino , Fernandes Felippe , Miranda Renato Billia de , Mauad Frederico Fábio , Michalovicz Leandro , Poleto Cristiano
Published: March 2017

Purpose

Brazilian sediment quality criteria were established based on pseudo-total metal contents, which is not suitable to determine their bioavailability and the ecological risk for aquatic biota. Therefore, the geochemical speciation of five metals (Cu, Fe, Ni, Pb and Zn) was determined to assess the distribution and ecological risk of sediments in a tropical shallow reservoir from Brazil. The paper aims to discuss these issues.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey of metals in ten representative stations of surface sediments (0-20 cm) from Carlos Botelho (Lobo-Broa) Reservoir was conducted during the dry season in April 2014. Sediment parameters were measured in situ. The geochemical speciation of metals was carried out using the modified three-stage BCR-701 procedure (Davutluoglu et al., 2011) and compared with pseudo-total metal contents.

Findings

Contamination at S-1 and S-8 was more severe than other sampling sites, especially for Cu, Ni, Pb and Zn. Metals such as Cu, Ni and Zn occasionally may be associated with adverse biological effects based on the comparison with sediment quality guidelines. The risk assessment code suggests no risk for Fe and low risk for Cu and Ni.

Originality/value

Geochemical speciation of metals could be useful in developing effective management strategies to control metal pollution in the Lobo-Broa Reservoir. Substantial amounts of Pb (classified as medium risk) were bound to humic substances and/or insoluble metal sulfides, and could pose serious risk to the benthic community through the food chain. Zinc at S-1, S-3 and S-8 showed high risk, indicating that an appreciable portion of Zn could be available to aquatic biota.
Looking ahead to Platform 2.0: participant feedback and institutionalization
Authors: Bueermann Jim , Escamilla Justin H. , Hartnett Susan M.
Published: March 2017

Purpose

The National Police Research Platform provided unprecedented data about police performance, but what did the agency heads think of this research program and the results? How useful were the findings for police practice and what more is needed? The purpose of this paper is to answer these questions and explore ways to translate the findings and sustain the Platform in the future.

Design/methodology/approach

Chiefs and sheriffs from the 100 participating agencies were invited by e-mail to take an online feedback survey about their experiences with the Platform. Data from 64 agencies were analyzed.

Findings

The majority of chief executive officers rated their overall experience with the Platform as positive, found the results useful and reported that the findings caused them to make changes, rethink things, and identify unforeseen issues. Most of them also expressed a willingness to participate in future Platform initiatives, but many felt additional guidance would help with interpreting findings and identifying next steps. This paper discusses how the Platform can respond to feedback and continue advancing the science of policing. Mainly, this can be achieved by engaging key organizations and providing routine feedback and education to participating agencies and the field at large.

Originality/value

This paper addresses previously unanswered questions about the utility and future of the National Police Research Platform from a police management perspective. It includes a preliminary discussion about how to sustain the Platform and ensure that research findings are translated into practice.
The impact of an IT governance framework on the internal control environment
Authors: Rubino Michele , Vitolla Filippo , Garzoni Antonello
Published: March 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyze how an IT governance framework [Control Objectives for Information and related Technology (COBIT)] influences the control environment and the internal control system. In particular, it aims to illustrate how the COBIT’s structure and processes impact on the seven categories of factors that compose the control environment.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper aims to highlight how an IT governance framework with its processes enables to improve the control environment assessment and implementation.

Findings

The analysis indicates that the implementation of the COBIT framework provides some indications for managers and auditors, which must implement or assess internal control system.

Practical implications

The adoption of the framework allows managers to focus effectively on integrating, aligning and linking processes. This improves the understanding of the key aspects connected to the control environment. In addition, the adoption of the framework allows overcoming some limitations regarding the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations framework.

Originality/value

This paper addresses an area of relevance to both practitioners and academics. This analysis focuses on Accounting Information Systems themes and, through the examination of an IT governance framework, suggests solutions and tools than can help managers and auditors to address the control environment assessment.
The implementation of electronic recordkeeping systems
Authors: Pan Weimei
Published: March 2017

Purpose

This study aims to present the findings of the first phase of a project entitled Putting the “Fun” Back in “Functional”, which has been investigating the socio-technical issues surrounding users’ interaction with electronic recordkeeping systems. The ultimate goal of the project is to improve that interaction by positively influencing the way in which individuals perceive their work practices and the tools they use to accomplish them. In its first phase, the project considered the implementation of such systems for the purpose of gaining a better understanding of the factors and processes that contribute to its success.

Design/methodology/approach

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 17 public employees from a large provincial government and a large city government in Canada about two information systems (ISs) – a meeting management system and an Electronic Documents and Records Management System.

Findings

Several salient themes emerged from the research data, including the value accorded to information and records, the implementation of electronic recordkeeping systems as a complex process, the appropriation of electronic recordkeeping systems, understanding users, ease of use and information/records specialists as part of the solution. Analysis of these themes shows that many of them can be explained through theories developed in the IS field.

Research limitations/implications

The results show that many themes are common across the records management and IS fields. Further, the results indicate the applicability of theories in the IS field to explain and predict the implementation of electronic recordkeeping systems.

Originality/value

This study is one of few that explicitly draw on IS theories to understand the implementation of electronic recordkeeping systems. The results of this study open up many opportunities for future research on electronic recordkeeping systems.
Corporate governance and records management in private and public hospitals in Ghana
Authors: Appiah Kingsley Opoku , Amos Kon-Naah Moomin , Bashiru Jebuni , Drammeh Palamin Habib , Tuffour Sharita
Published: March 2017

Purpose

This paper aims to explore the link between corporate governance and records management in hospitals in Ghana.

Design/methodology/approach

Questionnaires are used to collect data from 500 management staff from 85 hospitals (public and private). The respondents comprise 134, 211, 100 and 55 from the Eastern, Ashanti, Northern and Upper West Regions in Ghana, respectively. Three-stage least-squares and ordinary least square regressions are used to establish the relationship between corporate governance and records management.

Findings

Corporate governance exhibits a positive and significant relationship with security and records management. Records management, in turn, displays a positive and significant relationship with security, transparency, corporate governance and region, but not accountability.

Research limitations/implications

The study is based on 85 hospitals consisting of 20 private and 65 public hospitals across four regions out of ten in Ghana, implying that the findings may not be applicable in the six regions omitted.

Practical implications

The findings may assist hospital management within the sub-Sahara Africa to design training programs on records management and/or corporate governance.

Originality/value

This study adds to the body of knowledge about records management and corporate governance from the sub-Sahara perspective. Specifically, the authors widen the scope on corporate governance and records management by emphasising on management, a marked departure from other studies conducted on Ghana.
Survey research on tasks and competencies to inform records management education
Authors: Buchanan Sarah A. , Stratton Caroline , Sun Yalin , Chaudhary Ankita
Published: March 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to report findings from research conducted to study the everyday work of information professionals, specifically records managers. This paper is a part of the “Research on the Work of 21st Century Information Professionals” study.

Design/methodology/approach

Researchers used the tailored design approach to create and increase response rate of our survey. Survey research methodology facilitated the development, pilot and launch of a survey instrument with a 20-question module specific to records management work.

Findings

The authors discovered the frequency of 11 tasks in records managers’ daily work, as well as how important each of 11 competencies are to their success on the job. Professional development topics and format, job satisfaction, strategies for gaining compliance, desired skills for new hires and curricular recommendations are also presented.

Research limitations/implications

The survey generated 334 responses from records management professionals. This sample was based on graduate alumni, targeted professional groups and snowball strategy. Implications from this study include educating doctoral students to study information work and identifying particular areas for strengthening graduate curricula and professional training.

Practical implications

The authors obtained direct insight on what records managers do in their daily work that will inform curricular decision-making.

Originality/value

The study explores an interest in daily work activities through multiple quantifiable data measures to offer nuanced insight on the relationships between different aspects of records management work.
A process-philosophical understanding of organizational learning as “wayfinding”
Authors: Chia Robert
Published: March 2017

Purpose

This paper aims to articulate a practice-based, non-cognitivist approach to organizational learning.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper explores the potential contribution of a process-based “practice turn” in social theory for understanding organizational learning.

Findings

In complex, turbulent environments, robust organizations recur more to cultivated sensitivities and predispositions rather than rely on elaborate plans and strategies to guide their action; they “Wayfind” their way to sustainable success.

Originality/value

This study develops the understanding of organizational learning as a process of everyday practical coping guided by internalized sensitivities and predispositions.
The role of unlearning in metamorphosis and strategic resilience
Authors: Morais-Storz Marta , Nguyen Nhien
Published: March 2017

Purpose

This paper aims to conceptualize what it means to be resilient in the face of our current reality of indisputable turbulence and uncertainty, suggest that continual metamorphosis is key to resilience, demonstrate the role of unlearning in that metamorphosis and suggest that problem formulation is a key deliberate mechanism of driving continual cycles of learning and unlearning.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper entails a conceptual analysis.

Findings

It is found that both the unlearning and resilience literature streams are stuck in a paradigm whereby organizational behavior entails adaptation to the external environment and reaction to crisis. This paper suggests that, given a world of turbulence and uncertainty, a more useful paradigm is one where organizations take action before action is desperately needed, and that they proactively contribute to enacting their environment via their own continual metamorphosis.

Research limitations/implications

Future research should explore further the factors that can facilitate sensing the early warning signs, and facilitate the cyclical learning–unlearning process of metamorphosis.

Practical implications

The primary practical implication is that to ensure strategic resilience, managers must be able to identify early warning signs and initiate metamorphosis. This means understanding the processes needed to support unlearning, namely, problem formulation.

Originality/value

The originality and value of the present paper lies in that it suggests a shift in paradigm from adaptation and reaction, to action and enactment. Further, it proposes a cyclical process of learning and unlearning that together define periods of metamorphosis, and suggests problem formulation, whereby the mission statement is assessed and revised, as a mechanism in that endeavor.
Changes in management policies for extremely preterm births and neonatal outcomes from 2003 to 2012: two population‐based studies in ten European regions
Authors: Bonet M , Cuttini M , Piedvache A , Boyle EM , Jarreau PH , Kollée L , Maier RF , Milligan DWA , Van Reempts P , Weber T , Barros H , Gadzinowki J , Draper ES , Zeitlin J ,   the MOSAIC and EPICE research groups
Published: March 2017

Objective

To investigate changes in maternity and neonatal unit policies towards extremely preterm infants (EPTIs) between 2003 and 2012, and concurrent trends in their mortality and morbidity in ten European regions.

Design

Population‐based cohort studies in 2003 (MOSAIC study) and 2011/2012 (EPICE study) and questionnaires from hospitals.

Setting

70 hospitals in ten European regions.

Population

Infants born at <27 weeks of gestational age (GA) in hospitals participating in both the MOSAIC and EPICE studies (1240 in 2003, 1293 in 2011/2012).

Methods

We used McNemar's Chi2 test, paired t‐tests and conditional logistic regression for comparisons over time.

Main outcomes measures

Reported policies, mortality and morbidity of EPTIs.

Results

The lowest GA at which maternity units reported performing a caesarean section for acute distress of a singleton non‐malformed fetus decreased from an average of 24.7 to 24.1 weeks (P < 0.01) when parents were in favour of active management, and 26.1 to 25.2 weeks (P = 0.01) when parents were against. Units reported that neonatologists were called more often for spontaneous deliveries starting at 22 weeks GA in 2012 and more often made decisions about active resuscitation alone, rather than in multidisciplinary teams. In‐hospital mortality after live birth for EPTIs decreased from 50% to 42% (P < 0.01). Units reporting more active management in 2012 than 2003 had higher mortality in 2003 (55% versus 43%; P < 0.01) and experienced larger declines (55 to 44%; P < 0.001) than units where policies stayed the same (43 to 37%; P = 0.1).

Conclusions

European hospitals reporting changes in management policies experienced larger survival gains for EPTIs.

Tweetable abstract

Changes in reported policies for management of extremely preterm births were related to mortality declines.
Improving Hospital Performance Rankings Using Discrete Patient Diagnoses for Risk Adjustment of Outcomes
Authors: DeCenso Brendan , Duber Herbert C. , Flaxman Abraham D. , Murphy Shane M. , Hanlon Michael
Published: March 2017

Objective

To assess the changes in patient outcome prediction and hospital performance ranking when incorporating diagnoses as risk adjusters rather than comorbidity indices.

Data Sources

Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project State Inpatient Databases for New York State, 2005–2009.

Study Design

Conducted tree‐based classification for mortality and readmission by incorporating discrete patient diagnoses as predictors, comparing with traditional comorbidity indices such as those used for Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) outcome models.

Principal Findings

Diagnosis codes as predictors increased predictive accuracy 5.6 percent (95% CI: 4.5–6.9 percent) relative to CMS condition categories for heart failure 30‐day mortality. Most other outcomes exhibited statistically significant accuracy gains and facility ranking shifts. Sensitivity analysis showed improvements even when predictors were limited to only the diagnoses included in CMS models.

Conclusions

Discretizing patient severity information beyond the levels of traditional comorbidity indices improves patient outcome predictions and substantially shifts facility rankings.
Transitional B Cells Predominantly Reconstituted After a Desensitization Therapy Using Rituximab Before Kidney Transplantation
Authors: Ikemiyagi Masako , Hirai Toshihito , Ishii Rumi , Miyairi Satoshi , Okumi Masayoshi , Tanabe Kazunari
Published: March 2017

The role of B cells in graft rejection and tolerance has aroused great interest. We previously reported that rituximab (RIT) induction prior to kidney transplantation (KTx) reduced the incidence rate of chronic rejection. Here, we performed a cross sectional investigation to determine the characteristics of B cells after RIT induction for KTx. We sampled blood from 29 patients with (N = 16) and without (N = 13) RIT induction 3 to 18 months after KTx. In the RIT group, the majority of repopulating B cells was the transitional type, while memory B cells were scarce. Although transitional B cells are believed to have immune‐regulatory functions by producing IL‐10, transcriptional levels of IL‐10 in the peripheral blood mononuclear cells were similar in both groups. In contrast, transcription levels of BAFF‐receptor relatively increased in patients with RIT induction. In conclusion, BAFF‐receptor expressing highly proliferating transitional B cell was the major subset after RIT induction for KTx.
Arterial Access Port: A Shunt‐Less Vascular Access Using a Blind‐Ending Artificial Graft Anastomosed to the Brachial Artery
Authors: Matsuda Hiroaki , Oka Yoshinari , Yoshida Ryuichi , Katsura Yuki , Takeuchi Hidemi , Oyama Takanori , Takatsu Shigeko , Miyazaki Masashi
Published: March 2017

We retrospectively investigated the usability of arterial access ports (AAPs), which are blind‐ending short prosthetic grafts anastomosed to the brachial artery (BA) and implanted subcutaneously, via which cannulation and blood‐drawing from the BA was performed. Nineteen AAPs in 16 patients were evaluated. The AAP cumulative functional usage rate tended to drop within a year after its implantation because of infection and inappropriate positioning; however, its usability was extended for a maximum of 97 months after re‐implantation. The operative modification of minimal superficial repositioning of the BA anastomosed with the graft significantly improved its usage rate by easing the cannulation via the graft and eliminated usage withdrawal caused by infection and dislocation. Occlusion, thrombus, and ligation of the BA never occurred even after surgical repairs for infectious AAP. The use of an AAP as a shunt‐less vascular access could be an alternative to BA superficialization with avoidance of direct BA puncture.
High‐performance work systems and creativity implementation: the role of psychological capital and psychological safety
Authors: Agarwal Promila , Farndale Elaine
Published: March 2017

Unimplemented creative ideas are potentially wasted opportunities for organisations. Although it is largely understood how to encourage creativity among employees, how to ensure this creativity is implemented remains underexplored. The objective of the current study is to identify the underlying mechanisms that explain the relationship between high‐performance work systems and creativity implementation. Drawing from the job demands–resources model, we explore a model of psychological capital and psychological safety as mediators in the relationship between high‐performance work systems and creativity implementation. Based on 505 employee survey responses, the findings show support for the mediating relationships, highlighting the importance of psychological mechanisms. The study has important implications for HRM, uncovering how people management practices can encourage creativity implementation in the workplace.
Contextualising diversity management in the Middle East and North Africa: a relational perspective
Authors: Hennekam Sophie , Tahssain‐Gay Loubna , Syed Jawad
Published: March 2017

This study examines the clash between diversity policies as designed in the West and the challenges in implementing these in the Middle East and North Africa region. We contribute to the role of context in diversity management by studying how HR managers deal with diversity policies when the Western approach and the local context are perceived as being incompatible. Twenty HR/diversity managers working for multinational companies in nine different countries in the Middle East and North Africa region were interviewed. The findings show that a manager's understanding of the interrelated nature of multilevel factors of the local context influences the strategies adopted. Three strategies to deal with the perceived clash are identified: forcing a Western approach upon the local country, a reframing strategy where existing policies are reformulated to fit the Western requirements, and a sensitive approach in which the local context is considered. The study suggests that multinationa.l companies have to adapt diversity policies to local multilevel factors of the country in which they operate.
Photosynthetic bacterium Rhodopseudomonas palustris GJ‐22 induces systemic resistance against viruses
Authors: Su Pin , Tan Xinqiu , Li Chenggang , Zhang Deyong , Cheng Ju'e , Zhang Songbai , Zhou Xuguo , Yan Qingpin , Peng Jing , Zhang Zhuo , Liu Yong , Lu Xiangyang
Published: March 2017

Photosynthetic bacteria (PSB) have been extensively used in agriculture to promote plant growth and to improve crop quality. Their potential application in plant disease management, however, is largely overlooked. In this study, the PSB strain Rhodopseudomonas palustris GJ‐22 was investigated for its ability to induce resistance against a plant virus while promoting plant growth. In the field, a foliar spray of GJ‐22 suspension protected tobacco plants against tobacco mosaic virus (TMV). Under axenic conditions, GJ‐22 colonized the plant phyllosphere and induced resistance against TMV. Additionally, GJ‐22 produced two phytohormones, indole‐3‐acetic acid and 5‐aminolevulinic acid, which promote growth and germination in tobacco. Furthermore, GJ‐22‐inoculated plants elevated their immune response under subsequent TMV infection. This research may give rise to a novel biological agent with a dual function in disease management while promoting plant growth.
A U‐shaped association of body mass index and all‐cause mortality in heart failure patients: A dose‐response meta‐analysis of prospective cohort studies
Authors: Qin Wei , Liu Feng , Wan Chen
Published: March 2017

Background and Aims

The role of body mass index (BMI) for the prognosis of heart failure (HF) patients remains to be a great interest for a long time. However, the precise effect of dose‐response for BMI and mortality risk in patients with HF is still unclear. We conducted a dose‐response meta‐analysis to quantitatively assess the effect of BMI on all‐cause mortality in subjects with HF.

Methods

Fourteen prospective cohort studies included 13 508 death cases identified among 46 794 patients with HF.

Results

The summary HR per 5 units increase in BMI was 0.95 (95% CI=0.92‐0.97) with evidence of high heterogeneity (I2=90.10%, Pheterogeneity<.00001), and an U‐shaped nonlinear relationship of BMI and risk of mortality from all‐causes was revealed (Pnonlinearity=.0025). When stratified analyses were conducted, the heterogeneity in patients with HF aged more than 60 years decreased.

Conclusion

Heart failure patients with higher BMI (>28 kg/m2) have a better survival, whereas underweight and those with severe obesity (eg, BMI>37 kg/m2) have a higher mortality.
Traditional Chinese medicine Bushen‐Jianpi‐Huoxue decoction prevents diabetic osteoporosis in rats via Wnt and nuclear factor‐kappa B signaling pathways
Authors: Zhang Yongqing , Liu Mingming , Li Haisheng , Chen Zetao , Liang Na , Xu Jianguo , Zhang Xiaoli , Zhang Yihang
Published: March 2017

Aim

The aim of this study was to evaluate the therapeutic effect of a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), Bushen‐Jianpi‐Huoxue decoction (BJHD), on diabetic osteoporosis (DOP) and the action mechanisms likely mediated by nuclear factor‐kappa B (NF‐κB) and Wnt signaling pathways.

Methods

Fifty‐five male Wistar rats were used in this study; they were divided into normal control (n = 10) and established DOP model (n = 45) groups. The DOP model was induced using a combination high carbohydrate ‐ high fat diet and intraperitoneal injections of streptozotocin (STZ). The successfully induced animals were randomized to the model, Western medicine, TCM and control groups. Levels of fasting blood glucose; insulin; serum Ca, P and alkaline phosphatase, and the femoral bone mineral density (BMD) were measured. Furthermore, messenger RNA (mRNA) levels of cytokines in the Wnt and NF‐κB signaling pathways were measured using reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR).

Results

Thirty rats were successfully established as the DOP model (10/group). After treatment, the levels of fasting blood glucose, insulin resistance and alkaline phosphatase in the TCM group rats were lower, while P and BMD were higher than those in the model groups. The mRNA levels of cytokines in the Wnt signaling pathway were higher in the TCM group than those in the model group. Moreover, the expressions of factors in the NF‐κB pathway were markedly lower in the TCM group than they were in the model group.

Conclusion

Bushen‐Jianpi‐Huoxue decoction relieved DOP by activating the Wnt signaling pathway while inhibiting NF‐κB signaling.
Why Politics and Context Matter in Conservation Policy
Authors: Damiens Florence L. P. , Mumaw Laura , Backstrom Anna , Bekessy Sarah A. , Coffey Brian , Faulkner Richard , Garrard Georgia E. , Hardy Mathew J. , Kusmanoff Alexander M. , Mata Luis , Rickards Lauren , Selinske Matthew J. , Torabi Nooshin , Gordon Ascelin
Published: March 2017

Kareiva and Fuller (2016) consider the future prospects for biodiversity conservation in the face of the profound disruptions of the Anthropocene. They argue that more flexible and entrepreneurial approaches to conservation are needed. While some of the approaches they promote may work in particular situations, we believe their proposal risks unintended and detrimental social and ecological consequences by presenting them as global solutions to complex political, economic, social and ethical problems that are context‐dependent. Here we argue that the authors inadequately considers the following core issues of biodiversity conservation, namely: (1) the structural causes of biodiversity depletion and the responsibilities of key actors; (2) the questions around what should be conserved, the processes by which biodiversity is valued, and who has the legitimate authority to value it; (3) the fact that new tools, technologies and innovative approaches are unsuitable as guiding principles to solve complex, context‐dependent social‐ecological problems; (4) the challenges of choosing relevant interventions, given experts’ limited ability to ‘manage for change and evolution’; and (5) the risks associated with promoting a utilitarian approach and a neoliberal governance model for conservation at the global scale.
Conditioned Stimulus Form Does Not Explain Failures to See Pavlovian‐Instrumental‐Transfer With Ethanol‐Paired Conditioned Stimuli
Authors: Lamb Richard J. , Ginsburg Brett C. , Schindler Charles W.
Published: March 2017

Background

Pavlovian‐Instrumental‐Transfer (PIT) examines the effects of associative learning upon instrumental responding. Previous studies examining PIT with ethanol (EtOH)‐maintained responding showed increases in responding following presentation of an EtOH‐paired conditioned stimulus (CS). Recently, we conducted 2 studies examining PIT with an EtOH‐paired CS. One of these found increases in responding, while the other did not. This less robust demonstration of PIT may have resulted from the form of the CS used, as we used a 120‐second light stimulus as a CS, while the previous studies used either a 120‐second auditory stimulus or a 10‐second light stimulus. This study examined whether using conditions similar to our earlier study, but with either a 120‐second auditory or a 10‐second light stimulus as a CS, resulted in more robust PIT. We also examined the reliability of our previous failure to observe PIT.

Methods

Three experiments were conducted examining whether PIT was obtained using (i) a 120‐second light stimulus, (ii) a 10‐second light stimulus, or (iii) a 120‐second auditory stimulus as CSs.

Results

We found PIT was not obtained using (i) a 120‐second light stimulus as a CS, (ii) a 10‐second light stimulus as a CS, or (iii) a 120‐second auditory stimulus as a CS.

Conclusions

These results suggest that CS form does not account for our earlier failure to see PIT. Rather, factors like rat strain or how EtOH drinking is induced may account for when PIT is or is not observed.
Retention and relapse in clinical practice
Authors: Littlewood SJ , Kandasamy S , Huang G
Published: March 2017

Maintaining teeth in their corrected positions following orthodontic treatment can be extremely challenging. Teeth have a tendency to move back towards the original malocclusion as a result of periodontal, gingival, occlusal and growth related factors. However, tooth movement can also occur as a result of normal age changes. Because orthodontics is unable to predict which patients are at risk of relapse, those which will remain stable and the extent of relapse that will occur in the long‐term, clinicians need to treat all patients as if they have a high potential to relapse. To reduce this risk, long term retention is advocated. This can be a significant commitment for patients, and so retention and the potential for relapse must form a key part of the informed consent process prior to orthodontic treatment. It is vital that patients are made fully aware of their responsibilities in committing to wear retainers as prescribed in order to reduce the chance of relapse. If patients are unable or unwilling to comply as prescribed, they must be prepared to accept that there will be tooth positional changes following treatment. There is currently insufficient high quality evidence regarding the best type of retention or retention regimen, and so each clinician's approach will be affected by their personal, clinical experience and expertise, and guided by their patients’ expectations and circumstances.
Short term orthodontics
Authors: McDonald F
Published: March 2017

Short‐term orthodontics is a growing area of clinical care delivery. Many practitioners who have not experienced specialist orthodontic education are involved in the provision of that care. Limited orthodontic treatment can provide a level of tooth movement but the essential challenge arises from the patient's expectations and their acceptance of the possible outcomes. As with all techniques, short‐term orthodontics is not a panacea of care and the patient's motivation and the identification of specific cases which might benefit, is essential. Providers clearly use the technique in different ways and this paper highlights areas of caution
Early Class II treatment
Authors: Brierley CA , DiBiase A , Sandler PJ
Published: March 2017

The treatment of children presenting with a Class II division I malocclusion involves one of two approaches. The first provides treatment in two phases; one of intervention during the mixed dentition (phase I) followed by a second definitive course of appliance treatment in early adolescence (phase II). The second approach involves providing a single course of comprehensive therapy during adolescence. The debate for and against early treatment is discussed alongside key, clinically relevant evidence related to Class II division I malocclusions.
Cone Beam Computed Tomographic imaging in orthodontics
Authors: Scarfe WC , Azevedo B , Toghyani S , Farman AG
Published: March 2017

Over the last 15 years, cone beam computed tomographic (CBCT) imaging has emerged as an important supplemental radiographic technique for orthodontic diagnosis and treatment planning, especially in situations which require an understanding of the complex anatomic relationships and surrounding structures of the maxillofacial skeleton. CBCT imaging provides unique features and advantages to enhance orthodontic practice over conventional extraoral radiographic imaging. While it is the responsibility of each practitioner to make a decision, in tandem with the patient/family, consensus‐derived, evidence‐based clinical guidelines are available to assist the clinician in the decision‐making process. Specific recommendations provide selection guidance based on variables such as phase of treatment, clinically‐assessed treatment difficulty, the presence of dental and/or skeletal modifying conditions, and pathology. CBCT imaging in orthodontics should always be considered wisely as children have conservatively, on average, a three to five times greater radiation risk compared with adults for the same exposure. The purpose of this paper is to provide an understanding of the operation of CBCT equipment as it relates to image quality and dose, highlight the benefits of the technique in orthodontic practice, and provide guidance on appropriate clinical use with respect to radiation dose and relative risk, particularly for the paediatric patient.
Declining invasive prenatal diagnostic procedures: A comparison of tertiary hospital and national data from 2012 to 2015
Authors: Johnson Kristine , Kelley Joanne , Saxton Virginia , Walker Susan P. , Hui Lisa
Published: March 2017

Background

In recent years, the superior accuracy of maternal plasma cell‐free DNA‐based prenatal screening has resulted in >50% national decline in amniocenteses and chorionic villus sampling (CVS), creating new implications for specialist training.

Objective

To compare the annual figures on amniocenteses and CVS in a tertiary hospital with national population‐based trends between 2012 and 2015.

Methods

Retrospective study examining the amniocentesis and CVS procedures performed in a tertiary hospital between 2012 and 2015. Numbers of procedures, indications for testing, type of test and diagnostic results were analysed. Trends in the annual numbers of procedures were compared to national population‐based data from Medicare Benefits Schedule database.

Results

The annual numbers of diagnostic procedures in our tertiary centre fell from 267 to 215 over the study period, representing a 19.5% decline. This was significantly smaller than the corresponding national decline of 53.7% for the same period (P < 0.0001). In 2015, ultrasound abnormality (including nuchal translucency ≥ 3.5 mm) surpassed high‐risk screening results as the most common indication for invasive testing. Thirty percent of procedures performed for an ultrasound abnormality occurred prior to 18 weeks gestation.

Conclusion

Our tertiary centre experienced a relatively smaller decline in prenatal diagnostic procedures compared with national figures, largely due to an increase in testing for ultrasound abnormalities. Our results demonstrate the increasing contribution of first trimester ultrasound in the detection of fetal abnormalities in the cell‐free DNA era and the continued viability of specialist training in invasive procedures.
The aetiology of chronic vulval pain and entry dyspareunia: a retrospective review of 525 cases
Authors: Harris Victoria , Fischer Gayle , Bradford Jennifer A.
Published: March 2017

Background

There are few published data about the incidence of diagnoses or treatment outcomes, for chronic vulval pain.

Aims

To document diagnoses and treatment outcomes in a cohort of chronic vulval pain presentations.

Materials and methods

A retrospective case review of the patient database of a private vulval clinic between January 2011 and March 2015.

Results

Five hundred and twenty‐five out of 3360 patients (15.6%) met the criterion of vulval pain alone. Mean age was 47.1 years (range 17–86). Average duration of symptoms was 60 months (range 3–432). Overall, 277/525 (52.7%) patients had satisfactory responses to appropriate treatment and 90/525 (17%) had partial improvement. A dermatosis was identified in 322/525 (61.3%) patients and of these, 211/322 (65.5%) had satisfactory responses to appropriate dermatological treatment. In the remaining 203/525 (38.7%) the skin was normal. These patients were questioned around the possibility of a neuromuscular cause for their pain, including pre‐existing dysfunction, trauma or previous operations involving the spine, hips or lower limbs. There were 181/203 (89%) patients considered to have a neuromuscular cause for their pain and considered suitable for physiotherapy and/or neuromodulating medications. Of these patients, 63/182 (34.6%) had satisfactory responses to this treatment. One hundred and sixty‐six out of 525 (31.6%) described vulval pain only during sexual intercourse. There was no statistically significant difference between different diagnoses and responses to treatment between patients reporting dyspareunia only and those sexually active women who did not experience dysparenunia (29/525, 5.5%).

Conclusions

The majority of this cohort with chronic vulval pain had a dermatological disease with a smaller proportion caused by neuromuscular dysfunction. Both groups are potentially treatable.
A prospective, randomised trial of pre‐oxygenation strategies available in the pre‐hospital environment
Authors: Groombridge C. J. , Ley E. , Miller M. , Konig T.
Published: March 2017

Pre‐oxygenation before tracheal intubation aims to increase safe apnoea duration by denitrogenation of the functional residual capacity of the lungs, and increasing oxygen stores at the onset of apnoea. Pre‐oxygenation options in the pre‐hospital environment are limited due to oxygen availability and equipment portability. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of strategies available in this setting. This was a prospective, randomised, crossover study of 30 healthy volunteers who underwent 3‐min periods of pre‐oxygenation by tidal volume breathing with a non‐rebreather mask, a bag‐valve‐mask and a portable ventilator. The primary outcome measure was fractional expired oxygen concentration of the first exhaled breath after each technique. The secondary outcome measure was ease of breathing, assessed using a visual analogue scale. The mean (95%CI) fractional expired oxygen concentrations achieved with the non‐rebreather mask were 64 (60–68)%, bag‐valve‐mask 89 (86–92)% and portable ventilator 95 (94–96)%. Pre‐oxygenation efficacy with the non‐rebreather mask was significantly worse than with either the bag‐valve‐mask (p < 0.001) or ventilator (p < 0.001). No significant difference in ease of breathing was identified between the bag‐valve‐mask and ventilator, but both were perceived as being significantly more difficult to breathe through than the non‐rebreather mask. We conclude that, in healthy volunteers, the effectiveness of pre‐oxygenation by bag‐valve‐mask and portable ventilator was superior to pre‐oxygenation with a non‐rebreather mask, although the non‐rebreather mask was easier to breathe through than the other pre‐oxygenation devices.
Examination and visualisation of the simplifying assumption for vine copulas in three dimensions
Authors: Killiches Matthias , Kraus Daniel , Czado Claudia
Published: March 2017

Vine copulas are a highly flexible class of dependence models, which are based on the decomposition of the density into bivariate building blocks. For applications one usually makes the simplifying assumption that copulas of conditional distributions are independent of the variables on which they are conditioned. However this assumption has been criticised for being too restrictive. We examine both simplified and non‐simplified vine copulas in three dimensions and investigate conceptual differences. We show and compare contour surfaces of three‐dimensional vine copula models, which prove to be much more informative than the contour lines of the bivariate marginals. Our investigation shows that non‐simplified vine copulas can exhibit arbitrarily irregular shapes, whereas simplified vine copulas appear to be smooth extrapolations of their bivariate margins to three dimensions. In addition to a variety of constructed examples, we also investigate a three‐dimensional subset of the well‐known uranium data set and visually detect the fact that a non‐simplified vine copula is necessary to capture its complex dependence structure.
Compositional Analysis of Ceramics from Goguryeo Fortified Sites in Central Korea
Authors: Choi J. , Yang S. , Gilstrap W. D. , Cho D. , Glascock M. D.
Published: March 2017

The aim of this paper is to investigate whether the ceramics from the Goguryeo fortified sites of the Han River region in central Korea were manufactured and consumed locally during the southern expansion of the Goguryeo State (475–551 ce). For this research, 88 ceramic samples from seven contemporary sites in the southern territories of Goguryeo were sampled and analysed by ceramic thin‐section petrography and neutron activation analysis (NAA). In addition, to establish a possible chemical fingerprint at Hongryeonbong Fort 2, five clay specimens were also gathered and analysed from the pottery firing structure. The results of this analytical study indicate that the majority of the ceramics from the Goguryeo fortified sites of central Korea were produced and circulated within this newly acquired region. In addition, it is highly probable that Hongryeonbong Fort, which contains the remains of what may be ceramic firing architecture, is the place of production for the ceramics.