bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Numerical analysis of steel columns subjected to fire
Authors: Simões Yagho S. , Rocha Fabio M. , Munaiar Neto Jorge
Published: November 2018

Purpose

Isolated steel columns, when exposed to high temperatures, lose strength in a few minutes due to the high thermal conductivity of its constituent material. When these structural elements are embedded in walls, the response to exceptional action is altered so that the compartmentation offers an increase in the fire resistance of the columns. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to analyze the behavior of steel columns inserted in walls subject to thermal action in a numerical context.

Design/methodology/approach

For this purpose, the computational code ABAQUS version 6.14, which applies the finite element method formulation to solve engineering problems, was used.

Findings

The thermo-mechanical modeling, considering the wall only as a compartmentation element, generated few consistent results, leading to the conclusion that the walls influence the structural response of columns in a fire situation.

Originality/value

There is a lack of both numerical and experimental research works. In numerical modeling, the research works found in the literature had difficulties in developing a numerical model that satisfactorily represented steel columns inserted in walls, not being able to adequately understand their behavior at high temperatures. All of them did not consider the influence of masonry on the thermo-structural behavior of the columns. In this paper, this influence was evaluated and discussed.
The impact of economic interdependence on the probability of conflict between states
Authors: Tanious Mina E.
Published: November 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore to what extent the economic interdependence can affect the likelihood of conflict between States. Specially, over the past few decades, there has been a huge interest in the relationship between economic interdependence and political conflict. Liberals argue that economic interdependence lowers the possibility of war by increasing the weight of trading over the alternative of aggression; interdependent states would rather trade than invade; realists dismiss the liberal argument, arguing that high interdependence increases rather than decreases the probability of war. In anarchy, states must constantly worry about their security.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper highlights the content and level of economic interdependence between China and the USA since the beginning of China’s economic reform in 1979 and examines the impact of economic interdependence between them on their relationship toward Taiwan since 1995 and the probability of conflict.

Findings

Economic interdependence is proved to significantly decrease the onset of conflict between the two parties. This can be shown by comparing the number of armed conflicts during the pre-interdependence period to the number of armed conflicts after the economic interdependence there was an overage of 0.79 militarized interstate disputes (MIDs)/year, compared to 0.26 MIDs/year following China’s economic reforms; also, the length of the hostilities was longer during the pre-interdependence period (with an average of 11.13 months versus 5.33 months).

Originality/Value

This means that economic interdependence does not completely prevent the outbreak of international conflicts, but it also plays a major role in influencing the conflict in terms of the conflict’s intensity, the use of armed force and the number of conflicts that occur between the economic interdependence states.
Changing geo‐ecological functions of coral reefs in the Anthropocene
Authors: Perry Chris T. , Alvarez‐Filip Lorenzo
Published: November 2018

The ecology of many coral reefs has changed markedly over recent decades in response to various combinations of local and global stressors. These ecological changes have important implications for the abundance of taxa that regulate the production and erosion of skeletal carbonates, and thus for many of the geo‐ecological functions that coral reefs provide, including reef framework production and sediment generation, the maintenance of reef habitat complexity and reef growth potential. These functional attributes underpin many of the ecosystem goods and services that reefs provide to society.

Rapidly changing conditions of reefs in the Anthropocene are likely to significantly impact the capacity of reefs to sustain these geo‐ecological functions. Although the Anthropocene footprint of disturbance will be expressed differently across ecoregions and habitats, the end point for many reefs may be broadly similar: (a) progressively shifting towards net neutral or negative carbonate budget states; (b) becoming structurally flatter; and (c) having lower vertical growth rates. It is also likely that a progressive depth‐homogenisation will occur in terms of these processes.

The Anthropocene is likely to be defined by an increasing disconnect between the ecological processes that drive carbonate production on the reef surface, and the net geological outcome of that production, that is, the accumulation of the underlying reef structure. Reef structures are thus likely to become increasingly relict or senescent features, which will reduce reef habitat complexity and sediment generation rates, and limit reef potential to accrete vertically at rates that can track rising sea levels.

In the absence of pervasive stressors, recovery of degraded coral communities has been observed, resulting in high net‐positive budgets being regained. However, the frequency and intensity of climate‐driven bleaching events are predicted to increase over the next decades. This would increase the spatial footprint of disturbances and exacerbate the magnitude of the changes described here, limiting the capacity of many reefs to maintain their geo‐ecological functions. The enforcement of effective marine protection or the benefits of geographic isolation or of favourable environmental conditions (“refugia” sites) may offer the hope of more optimistic futures in some locations.

A >plain language summary is available for this article.
Do Pre‐Hemodialysis Estimates of Extracellular Volume Excess Using Bioimpedance and N‐Terminal Brain Natriuretic Peptide Correlate With Cardiac Chamber Size Measured by Magnetic Resonance Imaging?
Authors: Yoowannakul Suree , Kotecha Tushar , Fontana Marianna , Davenport Andrew
Published: November 2018

Bioimpedance can be used to measure extracellular water (ECW) and total body water in hemodialysis (HD) patients and estimate ECW excess. However, ECW excess potentially includes both an increase in the plasma volume and also the extravascular volume. Overestimating the amount of fluid to be removed during HD risks intra‐dialytic hypotension. We wished to determine the association between estimates of ECW excess comparing several different equations using bioimpedance, brain N‐terminal pro‐brain natriuretic peptide (NT‐proBNP) with cardiac chamber volumes and function as determined by cardiac magnetic resonance imaging pre‐HD measurements of ECW and total body water were made using multifrequency bioimpedance and cardiac chamber sizes and function were determined by magnetic resonance imaging. Thirty patients, 20 males (66.7%), mean age 64.4 ± 15.3 years were studied. ECW and ECW/height were positively associated with indexed right ventricular end‐systolic (RVESVi) and end‐diastolic volume (RVEDVi) (RVESi r = 0.46, r = 0.43; RVEDi r = 0.50, r = 0.44, all P < 0.05), but not with left sided cardiac volumes. Whereas NT‐proBNP was associated with indexed left atrial and ventricular size (r = 0.47, r = 0.58, P < 0.05), but not right sided cardiac volumes. Pre‐HD NT‐proBNP was associated with left sided cardiac chamber sizes, but not with right sided chamber sizes, whereas ECW/height was associated with right sided cardiac chamber sizes. As right‐sided cardiac chamber size is more responsive to and reflective of changes in intravascular volume than the left atrium and ventricle, then bioimpedance measured ECW is potentially more reliable in estimating plasma volume expansion.
Occurrence of Cronobacter Spp. in Ready‐to‐Eat Vegetable Products, Frozen Vegetables, and Sprouts Examined Using Cultivation and Real‐Time PCR Methods
Authors: Moravkova Monika , Verbikova Veronika , Huvarova Veronika , Babak Vladimir , Cahlikova Hana , Karpiskova Renata , Kralik Petr
Published: November 2018

Environmental matrices and food products are hypothesized to be sources of Cronobacter spp. The severity of neonatal infections, increasing number of cases in elderly and immunocompromised individuals, as well as isolation of Cronobacter spp. from clinical materials demands that more attention should be paid to Cronobacter spp. detection and occurrence of the bacteria in food products. Here, a total of 175 samples of ready‐to‐eat vegetables, frozen vegetables, and sprouted seeds were collected during a period of 1 year and examined for the presence of Cronobacter spp. using a cultivation method with two different sample preparations and real‐time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). In total, Cronobacter spp. were detected in 22.3% of tested samples using cultivation. In comparison, direct qPCR detected Cronobacter spp. in 37.7% of these samples (p < 0.01; Fisher's exact test) and the numbers of genome equivalents per gram reached 108 in some samples of sprouts. Cronobacter spp. were isolated from 51.4%, 37.2%, and 5.2% samples of sprouts, frozen vegetables, and cut green leaves/salads, respectively. Using qPCR, the most frequently contaminated sample types were sprouts (91.4%) and frozen vegetables (60.5%), whereas the rate of positivity for cut green leaves/salads was, in comparison, only 8.2% (p < 0.01; χ2‐test for independence).

Practical Application

This study provided valuable information on the occurrence of Cronobacter spp. in ready‐to‐eat vegetables using cultivation and qPCR. Cronobacter spp. are emerging opportunistic pathogens that can be present in food of plant origin. Cronobacter spp. were isolated from sprouts, frozen vegetables, and cut green leaves/salads, and the numbers of genome equivalents per gram reached 108 in some samples of sprouts.
A study of the glazing techniques and provenances of Tang sancai glazes using elemental and lead isotope analyses
Authors: Shen J. Y. , Henderson J. , Evans J. , Chenery S. , Zhao F. Y.
Published: November 2018

This study discusses the elemental compositions and lead isotope ratios of Tang sancai glazes unearthed from the Huangpu kiln, Huangye kiln and two Tang sancai tomb sites. The various glazes feature distinct lead isotope ratios and trace element characteristics, which can be interpreted as evidence for the use of different lead ore deposits and siliceous raw materials in the glazes. This is a strong indication that lead isotopes combined with trace element analysis could be used as a viable approach for identifying the provenance of Tang sancai of unknown origin by linking them to kiln sites, This provenance technique could be significant in the interpretation of ancient ceramic trade and communication patterns. In this study, the provenance of several Tang sancai glazes of uncertain origin were determined using this method: some Tang sancai wares unearthed in Xi'an City were produced in the kiln near Luoyang City and then traded to Xi'an City, providing an idea of ancient Tang sancai ceramic trade routes.
Exploring post‐excavation degradation potential of fungal communities associated with archaeological human remains
Authors: Mircea C. , Vulpoi A. , Rusu I. , Radu C. , Pârvu M. , Kelemen B.
Published: November 2018

Fungal communities associated with three osteoarchaeological samples from distinct archaeological sites (Tărian, Turdaş, Feleacu) in Transylvania, Romania, characterized by similar environmental conditions (wet soils), different historical age and amount of time spent in storage, were examined in order to register site‐ versus storage‐specific species. Physical anthropological taphonomic scoring was correlated with Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) indices in order to characterize mineral and organic bone fraction fluctuations relative to historical age. Molecular‐based species/genera identifications and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) investigations were carried out for the confirmation of dominant taxonomic items.
Biometric variables predict stone tool functional performance more effectively than tool‐form attributes: a case study in handaxe loading capabilities
Authors: Key A. J. M. , Lycett S. J.
Published: November 2018

Both the form of a stone tool and the anatomy of the individual using it have potential to influence its cutting performance. To date, however, the selective pressures acting on stone‐tool form and hominin biometric/biomechanical attributes have been investigated in isolation and their relative influence on performance have never been compared directly. This paper examines the influence of both tool‐form attributes and biometric variation on the functional performance of Acheulean handaxes. Specifically, it investigates the impact of 13 tool attributes and eight biometric traits on the working forces applied through the edge of 457 replica tools. The relative contribution of tool‐form and biometric attributes to handaxe loading levels were examined statistically. Results identify that both tool‐form attributes and biometric traits are significantly related to loading; however, tool–user biometric variation has a substantially greater impact relative to tool‐form attributes. This difference was demonstrated by up to a factor of 10. These results bear directly on the co‐evolutionary relationships of stone tools and hominin anatomy, and the comparative strength of selective pressure acting on each. They also underline why handaxe forms may have been free to vary in form across time and space without necessarily incurring critical impacts on their functional capabilities.
The richaredifferent: Unravelling the perceived and self‐reported personality profiles of high‐net‐worth individuals
Authors: Leckelt Marius , Richter David , Schröder Carsten , Küfner Albrecht C. P. , Grabka Markus M. , Back Mitja D.
Published: November 2018

Beyond money and possessions, how are the rich different from the general population? Drawing on a unique sample of high‐net‐worth individuals from Germany (≥1 million Euro in financial assets;N = 130), nationally representative data (N = 22,981), and an additional online panel (N = 690), we provide the first direct investigation of the stereotypically perceived and self‐reported personality profiles of high‐net‐worth individuals. Investigating the broad personality traits of the Big Five and the more specific traits of narcissism and locus of control, we find that stereotypes about wealthy people's personality are accurate albeit somewhat exaggerated and that wealthy people can be characterized as stable, flexible, and agentic individuals who are focused more on themselves than on others.
Effect size, statistical power, and sample size for assessing interactions between categorical and continuous variables
Authors: Shieh Gwowen
Published: November 2018

The reporting and interpretation of effect size estimates are widely advocated in many academic journals of psychology and related disciplines. However, such concern has not been adequately addressed for analyses involving interactions between categorical and continuous variables. For the purpose of improving current practice, this article presents fundamental features and theoretical developments for the variance of standardized slopes as a desirable standardized effect size measure for the degree of disparity between several slope coefficients. To estimate the effect size, a consistent and nearly unbiased estimator is described and a simple refinement is emphasized for extreme situations whenever appropriate. The essential problems of power and sample size calculations for testing the equality of slope coefficients are also considered. According to the analytic justification and empirical assessment, the exact approach has a clear advantage over the approximate methods. BothSASand R computer codes are provided to facilitate practical accessibility of the proposed techniques in interaction studies.
Biophysical factors in the regulation of asymmetric division of stem cells
Authors: Barui Ananya , Datta Pallab
Published: November 2018

Stem cells are a promising cell source for regenerative medicine due to their characteristics of self‐renewal and differentiation. The intricate balance between these two cell fates is maintained by precisely controlled symmetric and asymmetric cell divisions. Asymmetric division has a fundamental importance in maintaining tissue homeostasis and in the development of multi‐cellular organisms. For example, during development, asymmetric cell divisions are responsible for the formation of the body axis. Mechanistically, mitotic spindle dynamics determine the assembly and separation of chromosomes and regulate the orientation of cell division. Interestingly, symmetric and asymmetric cell division is not mutually exclusive and a range of factors are involved in such cell‐fate decisions, the measurement of which can provide efficient and reliable information on the regenerative potential of a cell. The balance between self‐renewal and differentiation in stem cells is controlled by various biophysical and biochemical cues. Although the role of biochemical factors in asymmetric stem cell division has been widely studied, the effect of biophysical cues in stem‐cell self‐renewal is not comprehensively understood. Herein, we review the biological relevance of stem‐cell asymmetric division to regenerative medicine and discuss the influences of various intrinsic and extrinsic biophysical cues in stem‐cell self‐renewal. This review particularly aims to inform the clinical translation of efforts to control the self‐renewal ability of stem cells through the tuning of various biophysical cues.
Role of inhibitor of yes‐associated protein 1 in triple‐negative breast cancer with taxol‐based chemoresistance
Authors: Li Ying , Wang Shunan , Wei Xi , Zhang Sheng , Song Zian , Chen Xiao , Zhang Jin
Published: November 2018

Triple‐negative breast cancer (TNBC) is highly clinically aggressive and taxol‐based chemoresistance remains a big TNBC therapeutic problem to be solved. Verteporfin, a small molecular yes‐associated protein 1 (YAP1) inhibitor, is little known as an antitumor drug for TNBC. Our data showed that YAP1 expression was associated with early relapse in tissue samples of patients with TNBC taxol chemoresistance (P < .001). Verteporfin reduced migration and enhanced apoptosis or autophagy of a taxol‐resistant MDA‐MB‐231 cell line in vitro. Knockdown of YAP1 increased epithelial‐mesenchymal transition response in a taxol‐resistant TNBC cell line. In an in vivo experiment, we found that verteporfin was able to shrink tumor weight and volume and decreased Ki67 expression in a taxol‐resistant mouse model. Our results provide evidence that verteporfin could be a chemosensitizer for TNBC patients with taxol‐based treatment.
Preventive Benefits of U.S. Childcare Subsidies in Supervisory Child Neglect
Authors: Maguire‐Jack Kathryn , Purtell Kelly M. , Showalter Kathryn , Barnhart Sheila , Yang Mi‐Youn
Published: November 2018

Using data from age 3 of the Fragile Families and Child Wellbeing Study, the current study explores the complex relationships between U.S. childcare subsidies and neglect. Specifically, the study examines two research questions: (i) Are U.S. childcare subsidies associated with self‐reported neglect among low‐income mothers? (ii) What individual types of self‐reported neglect are significantly reduced by receipt of childcare subsidy? Using negative binomial regression examining the relationships among mothers who were income‐eligible for childcare subsidy, we found that childcare subsidy was associated with lower levels of supervisory neglect, indicating an important role of subsidy in the lives of low‐income families.
The Costs of Exclusion: Gender Job Segregation, Structural Change and the Labour Share of Income
Authors: Seguino Stephanie , Braunstein Elissa
Published: November 2018

While women's share of employment has risen in many countries over the last two decades, gender job segregation has worsened, with women increasingly excluded from ‘good’ jobs in the industrial sector. In this article, the determinants of gender job segregation are assessed using panel data for a broad set of developing countries covering the period 1991–2015. The effect of gender job segregation on all workers, via the labour share of income, is also analysed. The results identify two major contributors to gender job segregation — the rising capital/labour ratio and the ratio of female/male labour force participation rates — indicative of ‘crowding’ and exclusion as economies move up the industrial ladder. The analysis further indicates that the crowding of women into lower quality jobs has a negative effect on workers as a whole by dampening the labour share of income. Those processes are influenced by global and macroeconomic conditions and policies that have circumscribed the expansion of high‐quality jobs relative to labour supply, intensifying competition for ‘good’ jobs and weakening labour's bargaining power.
Pathways to achieving food security, sustainable peace and gender equality: Evidence from three FAO interventions
Authors: Justino Patricia , Hagerman Katharine , Jackson Julius , Joshi Indira , Sisto Ilaria , Bradley Asha
Published: November 2018

There is increasing recognition that livelihood security, sustainable peace, conflict prevention and gender equality are complementary goals requiring integrated policy approaches, yet there is limited evidence on the links between these key development pillars.

Motivation

This article uses three case studies to illustrate how specific policy interventions can address the differentiated priorities of men and women with relation to food security, building sustainable peace processes and achieving gender equality.

Purpose

The article illustrates how five pathways have operated and interacted in three selectedFAOinterventions, and discusses data, research and policy challenges that emerged from this analysis.

Approach and methods

A conceptual framework grounded on five pathways is used, including changes in (a) behaviour, agency and aspirations; (b) social norms about gender roles and equality; (c) institutions and governance; (d) agriculture and employment markets; and (e) social cohesion and inclusive collective action.

Findings

The institutions that emerge from complex processes of interaction between state and non‐state armed actors, other informal actors and different population groups shape how property rights, food distribution systems, employment programmes and social service provision support or fail to support the local populations.

Policy implications

More information is needed on local conflict dynamics. As such, better data collection is needed to support policy interventions.
On the need for real dialogue: What's wrong with monological contractualism?
Authors: Kim Suzie
Published: November 2018

According to T.M. Scanlon, the core idea of contractualism consists in the claim that what we are morally required to do is conceptually grounded in the value of living in “relations of mutual recognition” with others. Specifically, Scanlon's contractualist idea of “living in relations of mutual recognition with others” requires that one act only in ways that cannot be reasonably rejected by all of those affected, according to the results of a hypothetical reflection conducted within one's own mind. I claim, however, that Scanlon is mistaken to rely on a single individual's hypothetical reflection (monological reflection) to determine what no one affected could reasonably reject. Instead, following Jürgen Habermas, I claim that we must engage in actual dialogue with all who stand to be affected, in order to live in relations of mutual recognition with others.
Differences in bacterial community structure between three types of biological soil crusts and soil below crusts from the Gurbantunggut Desert, China
Authors: Liu Yubing , Wang Zengru , Zhao Lina , Wang Xing , Liu Lichao , Hui Rong , Zhang Wenli , Zhang Peng , Song Guang , Sun Jingyao
Published: November 2018

The scarcity of knowledge on differences in the microbial assemblage between biological soil crusts (BSCs) and soil below crusts (SBCs) limits our understanding of the contribution of different layers of topsoil to desert ecosystems. This study used Illumina MiSeq sequencing to determine whether differences in bacterial communities among different types of BSCs (algae, lichen and moss dominated) are greater than those between BSCs and their corresponding underlying soils (0–5 cm) in the Gurbantunggut Desert, China. Alpha and beta diversity of bacterial communities showed that richness and diversity were greater in SBCs than in BSCs, but the absolute bacterial abundance was larger in BSCs than in soils. Differences were mainly in the phyla Cyanobacteria, Actinobacteria, Chloroflexi and Acidobacteria. Cyanobacteria were concentrated in BSCs, especially in algae‐dominated BSCs. The relative abundances of Actinobacteria, Chloroflexi and Acidobacteria in SBCs were more than twice those in BSCs, and they were also abundant in the lichen‐ and moss‐dominant crusts. The number of sample‐specific genera was larger in BSCs, but there were more shared genera among SBCs. These results, combined with the principal coordinate analysis and the predicted function profiles, showed that differences in microbial community structure and function in desert ecosystems were greatest between BSCs and the underlying soils, followed by differences among the three types of BSCs, and differences were smallest between the soils below different crusts. These differences might be closely related to the soil chemical properties, especially to pH and fertility. Our study indicated that microbial communities tended to converge in SBCs of different microhabitats.

Highlights

We studied bacterial community composition in different types of BSCs and SBCs.

Differences in bacterial community were greatest between BSCs and SBCs.

BSC components contributed to small‐scale microbial heterogeneity in SBCs.

Surface soil bacterial communities were strongly stratified even at the centimetre scale from BSCs.
Organic and inorganic amendments did not affect microbial community composition in the bulk soil differently but did change the relative abundance of selected taxa
Authors: Celestina Corinne , Sale Peter W. G. , Tang Caixian , Franks Ashley E.
Published: November 2018

Deep placement of organic amendments such as poultry litter and legume residues has been developed as a technique to ameliorate sodic clay subsoils in the south‐east Australian cropping region. It has been suggested that the soil microbial community plays a key role in this process of subsoil amelioration. A controlled environment experiment using repacked soil units was conducted to investigate changes in the microbial communities of subsoil treated with organic and inorganic amendments. Poultry litter, inorganic nutrients and wheat straw plus inorganic nutrients with equivalent total nutrient content (460 kg N ha−1, 210 kg P ha−1 and 330 kg K ha−1) were mixed into a central band and incubated for 21 days, followed by 126 days with wheat plants. Changes to bacterial and fungal communities in the bulk subsoil, 2–7 cm from the amended band, were assessed using next‐generation amplicon sequencing of the 16S and ITS rRNA genes. There were small but significant (p < 0.05) changes in bacterial and fungal community structure of the amended treatments, relative to the unamended control, which were linked to the movement of solutes away from the amended band. The three amendments did not affect microbial community composition differently in the bulk soil, although there were changes in the relative abundance of selected taxa. Our results suggest that changes in soil microbial communities in the bulk subsoil in this experimental system largely depended on movement of the soil solution through the profile.

Highlights

We characterized effect of amendments on microbial communities in the soil beyond the detritusphere.

Microbial community of bulk soil was different in amended treatments from the unamended control.

Amendments did not affect community composition differently but did change relative abundances of certain taxa.

Changes in microbial community structure were due to movement of soil solution away from the amendment.
Towards an Integrated Framework of Bias in Noncognitive Assessment in International Large‐Scale Studies: Challenges and Prospects
Authors: van de Vijver Fons J. R.
Published: November 2018

A conceptual framework of measurement bias in cross‐cultural comparisons, distinguishing between construct, method, and item bias (differential item functioning), is used to describe a methodological framework addressing assessment of noncognitive variables in international large‐scale studies. It is argued that the treatment of bias, coming from constructs, measurement procedures, items, or any combination, is often piecemeal and that the quality of studies would be enhanced by an integrated approach to all kinds of bias in all stages of a study. The extensive preparations of data collections involving feedback from all participating countries make it likely that constructs to be measured apply in most or all of the participating countries (thereby reducing the likelihood of construct bias). Large‐scale studies tend to use up‐to‐date procedures for item bias (differential item functioning). Sources of method bias are examined much less. Particular attention is paid to response styles and possible ways to address such styles in large‐scale studies. Finally, ways to enhance the integrated treatment of bias are described.
Local adaptation, genetic divergence, and experimental selection in a foundation grass across the US Great Plains’ climate gradient
Authors: Galliart Matthew , Bello Nora , Knapp Mary , Poland Jesse , St Amand Paul , Baer Sara , Maricle Brian , Smith Adam B. , Johnson Loretta
Published: November 2018

Many prior studies have uncovered evidence for local adaptation using reciprocal transplant experiments. However, these studies are rarely conducted for a long enough time to observe succession and competitive dynamics in a community context, limiting inferences for long‐lived species. Furthermore, the genetic basis of local adaptation and genetic associations with climate has rarely been identified. Here, we report on a long‐term (6‐year) experiment conducted under natural conditions focused on Andropogon gerardii, the dominant grass of the North American Great Plains tallgrass ecosystem. We focus on this foundation grass that comprises 80% of tallgrass prairie biomass and is widely used in 20,000 km2 of restoration. Specifically, we asked the following questions: (a) Whether ecotypes are locally adapted to regional climate in realistic ecological communities. (b) Does adaptive genetic variation underpin divergent phenotypes across the climate gradient? (c) Is there evidence of local adaptation if the plants are exposed to competition among ecotypes in mixed ecotype plots? Finally, (d) are local adaptation and genetic divergence related to climate? Reciprocal gardens were planted with 3 regional ecotypes (originating from dry, mesic, wet climate sources) of Andropogon gerardii across a precipitation gradient (500–1,200 mm/year) in the US Great Plains. We demonstrate local adaptation and differentiation of ecotypes in wet and dry environments. Surprisingly, the apparent generalist mesic ecotype performed comparably under all rainfall conditions. Ecotype performance was underpinned by differences in neutral diversity and candidate genes corroborating strong differences among ecotypes. Ecotype differentiation was related to climate, primarily rainfall. Without long‐term studies, wrong conclusions would have been reached based on the first two years. Further, restoring prairies with climate‐matched ecotypes is critical to future ecology, conservation, and sustainability under climate change.
The influence of construal of self on internal auditors' judgments on whistle‐blowing: Evidence from China
Authors: Zheng Bella Zhuoru , Patel Chris , Evans Elaine
Published: November 2018

Our paper contributes to the audit literature by examining whether internal auditors' personal values measured by construal of self systematically influence their acceptance and likelihood of engaging in whistle‐blowing. China provides a particularly appropriate national context for our study because evidence shows that the traditional internal control systems have largely failed to achieve their objective of preventing wrongdoings. Internal auditors have been selected as subjects because of the importance placed on them by regulators and enterprises in designing and implementing whistle‐blowing systems. Construal of self has been selected for examination because it captures complex moral, cognitive processes experienced by individuals at both cultural and personality levels. This study develops and finds support for the hypotheses that, compared with independents, interdependent internal auditors are less accepting and less likely to engage in whistle‐blowing. The results also show the presence of “holier‐than‐thou” perception bias among internal auditors. The findings may benefit local and multinational enterprises, regulators, and researchers who are interested in designing and developing more compatible whistle‐blowing policies and procedures.
Urinary aquaporin 1 and perilipin 2: Can these novel markers accurately characterize small renal masses and help guide patient management?
Authors: Song Joseph B , Morrissey Jeremiah J , Mobley Jonathan M , Figenshau Karen G , Vetter Joel M , Bhayani Sam B , Kharasch Evan D , Figenshau Robert Sherburne
Published: November 2018

Objective

To evaluate the role of urine aquaporin 1 and perilipin 2 as biomarkers adjunct to renal mass biopsy in guiding the management of patients with small renal masses.

Methods

Preoperative aquaporin 1 and perilipin 2 levels in 57 patients with small renal masses undergoing partial nephrectomy were analyzed and compared with postoperative tumor histology. An algorithm was created utilizing aquaporin 1 and perilipin 2 in conjunction with renal mass biopsy. Cut‐off values were implemented to maximize biomarker sensitivity and specificity. Renal mass biopsy utilization and intervention were then compared with rates in traditional renal mass biopsy algorithms.

Results

All clear cell and papillary renal cell carcinomas were correctly identified and assigned to the treatment path. All benign lesions were correctly sorted to a confirmatory renal mass biopsy path. Two chromophobe masses did not have elevated aquaporin 1 and perilipin 2, and would require renal mass biopsy. Compared with protocols that call for all small renal masses to be biopsied, confirmatory renal mass biopsy could have been safely avoided in 74% of patients with elevated aquaporin 1 and perilipin 2. Compared with protocols that do not utilize renal mass biopsy, surgical intervention would have been avoided in 23% of patients with benign masses.

Conclusions

Aquaporin 1 and perilipin 2 possess high sensitivity and specificity for detecting clear cell and papillary renal cell carcinoma. Use of these markers might compliment renal mass biopsy in the characterization of small renal masses.
The family impact of dental general anaesthesia in children: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Park Joon Soo , Anthonappa Robert P. , King Nigel M. , McGrath Colman P.
Published: November 2018

Background

The health and well‐being of children are intimately linked to their parents’ physical, emotional, and social health and social circumstances.

Aim

To conduct a meta‐analysis of studies that have used the Early Childhood Oral Health Impact Scale (ECOHIS) and Child Oral Health‐Related Quality of Life (COHRQoL) instruments, to evaluate the family impact scale (FIS) changes following their children's dental treatment under general anaesthesia (DGA).

Methodology

A systematic search was undertaken using the PRISMA guidelines. The inclusion criteria consisted of patients below 16 years of age, DGA, pre‐ and post‐operative assessments, and the use of ECOHIS and COHRQoL. FIS changes were the primary outcome measure, where the mean difference (MD) was calculated.

Results

After initial search of 105 studies in the database, twenty‐one articles were included in the analysis. A positive outcome in the FIS changes was identified in all studies. The combined MD for FIS using ECOHIS and COHRQoL was 1.52 [95% CI: 1.15‐1.89; P < 0.00001; I2=87%] and 1.10 [95% CI: 0.68‐1.52; P < 0.00001; I2=79%], respectively.

Conclusions

Dental treatment with general anaesthesia for children had a significant positive impact on parental emotions, activity, and conflict. Following DGA, there was significant improvement in the FIS, with large MD.
A comparative study of onychomycosis and traumatic toenail onychodystrophy dermoscopic patterns
Authors: Ramos Pinheiro R. , Dias Domingues T. , Sousa V. , Galhardas C. , Apetato M. , Lencastre A.
Published: November 2018

Background

Onychomycosis (OM) and traumatic onychodystrophy (OD) are common causes of toenail changes. A clinical diagnosis is often impossible without mycology. Dermoscopy is helpful in this setting but yet underexplored. Prospective comparative studies between OM and OD onychoscopic findings have not been previously performed.

Objectives

We sought to determine distinguishing dermoscopic presentations of OM and traumatic OD.

Methods

We performed a prospective, observational study including patients presenting with ≥1 toenail onychodystrophy. All underwent onychoscopy, clinical and mycological examination. Based on these results, patients received a final diagnosis of OM or OD. Dermoscopic presentations of OM and OD patients were classified in patterns and compared.

Results

In all, 110 cases of OM and 82 of traumatic OD were compared. Statistical analyses revealed that the distal pulverized and the irregular spiked macular dermoscopic patterns were predictors of an OM diagnosis. The regular macular, the non‐classifiable, the total and partial homogeneous background dermoscopic patterns correlated with traumatic OD diagnosis.

Conclusions

We demonstrated that OM and traumatic OD have distinctive onychoscopic presentations. Dermoscopy may be an important ancillary tool to guide their differential.
Diagnosis validation and clinical characterization of atopic dermatitis in Nurses’ Health Study 2
Authors: Drucker A.M. , Cho E. , Li W.‐Q. , Camargo C.A. , Li T. , Qureshi A.A.
Published: November 2018

Background

Epidemiologic studies of atopic dermatitis (AD) are often limited by case definitions that have not been validated.

Objective

In this study, we assessed the accuracy of self‐report of AD in a large cohort of US female nurses, the Nurses’ Health Study 2 (NHS2). We also provide clinical characteristics of AD in the cohort.

Methods

We sent an electronic questionnaire to NHS2 participants who previously reported ever having a diagnosis of AD. This questionnaire was designed to confirm cases of AD using previously validated algorithms with >85% specificity. We assessed the association of AD with asthma, comparing the results when different definitions of AD were applied. We also inquired about various aspects of participants’ AD.

Results

Responses were received from 2509 of 5126 (49%) nurses who were sent the questionnaire, with an average age of 62. Most participants (1996/2509, 80%) reiterated their previously reported clinician diagnosis of AD. Application of the two diagnostic algorithms yielded confirmation of 1538 and 1293 prevalent cases, respectively. The association of AD with asthma was stronger when more stringent AD case definitions were applied. Participants generally reported mild disease (92% with ≤10% maximal body surface area involved) and a high proportion (57%) reported adult‐onset disease.

Conclusions

Self‐report of AD diagnosis has good reliability, and future analyses will be strengthened by our ability to conduct sensitivity analyses with refined confirmed AD subgroups.
The spectrum of cutaneous adverse events during encorafenib and binimetinib treatment in B‐rapidly accelerated fibrosarcoma‐mutated advanced melanoma
Authors: Graf N.P. , Koelblinger P. , Galliker N. , Conrad S. , Barysch M. , Mangana J. , Dummer R. , Cheng P.F. , Goldinger S.M.
Published: November 2018

Background

B‐rapidly accelerated fibrosarcoma (BRAF) inhibitor encorafenib alone and in combination with MEK inhibitor binimetinib improves survival in BRAF‐mutated melanoma patients. So far, the range of cutaneous adverse events has been characterized only for established BRAF inhibitors (vemurafenib, dabrafenib) and MEK inhibitors (trametinib, cobimetinib).

Objective

The aim of this study was to investigate cutaneous adverse events emerging in melanoma patients treated with encorafenib and binimetinib.

Methods

Patients treated with BRAF and MEK inhibitors in clinical trials at the University Hospital of Zurich were identified. Frequency and features of cutaneous adverse events as well as their management were assessed based on the prospectively collected clinical and histopathological data. The events emerging during encorafenib and/or binimetinib therapy were compared to other BRAF and MEK inhibitors at the institution and in the literature.

Results

The most frequent cutaneous adverse events observed in patients treated with encorafenib alone (n = 24) were palmoplantar hyperkeratosis (54%), palmoplantar erythrodysesthesia (58%) and alopecia (46%). Drug‐induced papulopustular eruptions prevailed in patients with binimetinib monotherapy (n = 25). The most frequent cutaneous adverse events in patients treated with encorafenib/binimetinib (n = 49) were palmoplantar hyperkeratosis (10%).

Conclusion

Compared to data published for established BRAFi, encorafenib monotherapy showed less hyperproliferative cutaneous adverse events. In contrast, palmoplantar hyperkeratosis and palmoplantar erythrodysesthesia seem to occur more often. The combination of encorafenib and binimetinib is well tolerated and induces few cutaneous adverse events.
A revised model of uncertainty in complex healthcare settings: A scoping review
Authors: Pomare Chiara , Churruca Kate , Ellis Louise A. , Long Janet C. , Braithwaite Jeffrey
Published: November 2018

Background

Uncertainty is a ubiquitous and dynamic presence throughout healthcare systems and encounters, affecting the quality and safety of care. Although previous research has attempted to categorize varieties of uncertainty, it is not clear if these classifications are applicable across various healthcare settings.

Objective

The purpose of this review was to examine the applicability of the issues of uncertainty delineated in an established taxonomy across diverse healthcare domains, professions, and countries and to consider the complexity of these issues.

Methods

Drawing on empirical research from three databases, we conducted a scoping review of the literature to identify types of uncertainty experienced by healthcare professionals. A framework synthesis design was employed to review and synthesize the literature across multiple healthcare settings.

Results

The search identified 2285 articles, of which 94 met the inclusion criteria. Findings from included studies suggested professional uncertainty in healthcare is complex and pervasive. On the basis of our inability to categorize some studies in the issues of uncertainty outlined in the existing taxonomy, we proposed a revised model of uncertainty for healthcare professionals.

Conclusions

The revised model of uncertainty, the model of uncertainty in complex healthcare settings (MUCH‐S), is applicable to various healthcare ecosystems and proposes a reflexive archetype that recognizes different issues of uncertainty while establishing that these are often interrelated in healthcare systems. This review offers healthcare professionals greater levels of understanding of this complex phenomenon and may support more informed and reflective decision‐making, assisting them to better navigate uncertainties experienced in healthcare workplaces.
First confirmed record of the Critically Endangered green sawfish Pristis zijsron from Bangladeshi waters
Authors: Haque Alifa B. , Das Sudipta A.
Published: November 2018

In a study identifying the species composition of illegally traded elasmobranch products, evidence was collected of the presence of green sawfish Pristis zijsron in Bangladeshi waters of the Bay of Bengal. This is the first confirmed record of Pristis zijsron from this region, extending its known range > 1000 km to the north‐west. This is an important record in a region where sawfish have declined significantly and are now rarely sighted; it highlights the urgency of further regional species‐specific studies within the Indian Ocean.
THE IMPACT OF FHLB ADVANCES ON BANK HOLDING COMPANY LENDING OVER THE CREDIT CYCLE
Authors: Brewer Elijah , Jackson William E. , Mondschean Thomas S.
Published: November 2018

We examine the sensitivity of bank holding company loan growth to the growth in funding obtained through the Federal Home Loan Bank (FHLB) advances program. FHLB advances are a low‐cost funding source that banking organizations may substitute for funds drawn out of the financial system during periods of tight monetary policy or financial stress. This may be especially relevant for community banking organizations that have relatively less access to wholesale funding sources. Our findings show that FHLB advances provide banking organizations with some liquidity protection that reduces the impact of financial market distress and tight monetary policy on loan growth.
Are transformational and transactional types of leadership compatible? A two‐wave study of employee motivation
Authors: Nielsen Poul Aaes , Boye Stefan , Holten Ann‐Louise , Jacobsen Christian Bøtcher , Andersen Lotte Bøgh
Published: November 2018

Transformational and transactional leadership strategies have become prominent in public administration research, but it is unclear whether they are compatible or whether they could undermine each other. We examine the combined and interactive effects of transformational and three types of transactional leadership (contingent verbal rewards, material rewards, and sanctions) on employee work motivation, conceptualized as work engagement and intrinsic motivation. Panel analyses using repeated measures of 385 leaders and 3,797 employees show that transformational leadership and contingent verbal rewards increased employee motivation. However, simultaneous use of contingent material rewards undermined the benefits of transformational leadership. Thus, the motivational potential of service‐ or community‐oriented visions was undercut when leaders also appealed to extrinsic material motives. This could help explain why financial incentives do not always have the expected benefits in public organizations. We therefore argue that research and practice should pay more attention to how different leadership strategies work in combination.