bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The outcomes and the mediating role of the functional triad: The users' perspective
Authors: Xu David Jingjun , Benbasat Izak , Cenfetelli Ronald T.
Published: March 2018

B.J. Fogg's Functional Triad shows the manner in which computing technologies can persuade people by playing 3 different functional roles, namely, as tools, media, or social actors. However, the effects of user perceptions of these 3 functional roles are largely unknown. We advance Fogg's framework by developing a conceptual model to explain how a feature of a computing technology (ie, the trade‐off transparency feature of a recommendation agent [RA], which interactively demonstrates the trade‐offs among product attribute values) can result in certain outcomes by shaping the beliefs of individuals regarding the 3 functional roles. We examine the effects of the perceived Functional Triad on the following 3 outcomes: (1) persuading users to use an RA (intention to use), (2) persuading users to follow the advice of the RA (recommendation adherence), and (3) persuading users to recommend the RA to others (recommendation to friends). We conducted a laboratory experiment to manipulate 4 levels of trade‐off transparency, thereby creating an adequate amount of variations for the perceived Functional Triad. A total of 160 participants were recruited from a large university in North America. Although designers could control the technology design aspects, these designs may not accomplish the intended effects on users, who have their own perceptions. This study contributes to existing literature by simultaneously evaluating the 3 different outcomes of the Functional Triad from the perspective of users.
Extended glass‐forming region in the AgCl‐Ag2S‐As2S3 ternary system
Authors: Li Lei , Xu Shaohua , Yin Haiwei , Wang Yang , Zeng Huidan , Chen Guorong
Published: March 2018

In the present work, glass formation property of the AgCl‐Ag2S‐As2S3 ternary system is investigated. An extended glass‐forming region rich in the AgCl content (up to 80 mol.%) is observed. It is also found that there exists a small devitrification domain dividing the whole glass‐forming region into two parts. XRD analyses confirm that the precipitated crystals in the crystallized samples are pure AgCl, or Xanthoconite and Proustite Ag3AsS3, depending on the Ag2S/As2S3 ratio and the AgCl content. Structural evolutions of the selected samples 15AgCl‐yAg2S‐zAs2S3 are examined by high‐resolution XPS, and Raman spectroscopy. The crystallization mechanisms are studied comprehensively by SEM, DSC, and XRD measurements, and tentatively assigned to the presence of phase separation. The results reported in this article are expected to serve as a guide for the selection of suitable electrode materials for electrochemical applications.
Enhanced thermal conductivity in Si3N4 ceramic with the addition of Y2Si4N6C
Authors: Li Yinsheng , Kim Ha‐Neul , Wu Haibo , Kim Mi‐Ju , Ko Jae‐Woong , Park Young‐Jo , Huang Zhengren , Kim Hai‐Doo
Published: March 2018

Si3N4 ceramic was densified at 1900°C for 12 hours under 1 MPa nitrogen pressure, using MgO and self‐synthesized Y2Si4N6C as sintering aids. The microstructures and thermal conductivity of as‐sintered bulk were systematically investigated, in comparison to the counterpart doped with Y2O3‐MgO additives. Y2Si4N6C addition induced a higher nitrogen/oxygen atomic ratio in the secondary phase by introducing nitrogen and promoting the elimination of SiO2, resulting in enlarged grains, reduced lattice oxygen content, increased Si3N4‐Si3N4 contiguity and more crystallized intergranular phase in the densified Si3N4 specimen. Consequently, the substitution of Y2O3 by Y2Si4N6C led to a great increase in ~30.4% in thermal conductivity from 92 to 120 W m−1 K−1 for Si3N4 ceramic.
Influence of magnesium on dielectric properties of Ca9–xMgxBi(VO4)7 ceramics
Authors: Dorbakov Nikolai G. , Grebenev Vadim V. , Titkov Vladimir V. , Zhukovskaya Evgeniya S. , Stefanovich Sergey Y. , Baryshnikova Oksana V. , Deyneko Dina V. , Morozov Vladimir A. , Belik Alexei A. , Lazoryak Bogdan I.
Published: March 2018

Solid solution of Ca9‐xMgxBi(VO4)7 in powder and ceramic forms are obtained by solid‐state reactions. Details of their crystal structures are determined for x = 0.25 and x = 0.5 by synchrotron radiation diffraction and the Rietveld method. The refinement has confirmed that Mg2+ is replacing Ca2+ in M5 position of a polar (S.G. R3c) β‐Ca3(PO4)2‐type structure. Thermal analysis, dielectric and second harmonic generation experiments in broad temperature regions have proved this polar structure is formed for 0 ≤ x ≤ 0.7. Magnesium for calcium substitution enhances optical nonlinear activity of Ca9‐xMgxBi(VO4)7 in 0 < x ≤ 0.5. Two phase transitions have been found, one of which from polar to centrosymmetric phase is accompanied by dielectric constant peak of ferroelectric type. The other is upper on temperature, marked with smaller dielectric anomaly, and goes between 2 centrosymmetric phases. Temperatures of the phase transition only slightly depend on x, the first being near 1050 K, the second near 1100 K. Electric conductivity quickly rises with temperature in the polar phase. At higher temperature it changes according to the Arrhenius law with small activation energy, Ea ~ 0.7 eV for bulk conductivity and Egb ~ 2.0‐2.5 eV for grain boundary conductivity. The analysis of bulk and grain boundary conductivities agrees with Ca2+‐ion fast transport in ceramics. The bulk conductivity slowly decreases with magnesium content, the grain boundary conductivity does not notably depend on the composition.
Novel bismuth ferrite‐based lead‐free ceramics with high energy and power density
Authors: Liu Ningtao , Liang Ruihong , Zhao Xiaobo , Xu Chenhong , Zhou Zhiyong , Dong Xianlin
Published: March 2018

In this work, a new lead‐free relaxor ferroelectric 0.60BiFeO3‐0.34BaTiO3‐0.06Sr(Al0.5Nb0.5)O3 (BBFTO‐SAN) ceramic was prepared via the conventional solid‐state reaction method. High recoverable energy density (1.75 J/cm3) and efficiency (81%) were achieved, which is superior to some other lead‐free ceramics. Good thermal stability in a wide temperature range (30‐120°C) was also investigated in this system. Moreover, we first studied the charge‐discharge performance of bulk BFO‐based energy storage ceramics and obtained an ultra‐high power density pD (~57 MW/cm3) as well as a large current density value of ~1353 A/cm2. Consequently, all the results indicate that this ceramic is a promising lead‐free candidate for energy storage materials.
Landscape pattern and plant biodiversity in Mediterranean coastal dune ecosystems: Do habitat loss and fragmentation really matter?
Authors: Malavasi Marco , Bartak Vojta , Carranza Maria Laura , Simova Petra , Acosta Alicia T. R.
Published: March 2018

Aim

Habitat fragmentation and loss are two of the most important factors driving current biodiversity decline. Nonetheless, the relationship between biodiversity and landscape patterns appears more complex than generally expected, depending on the species and communities involved. We aim to enrich knowledge concerning the relationship between plant diversity and landscape patterns along linear landscapes, such as Mediterranean coastal dunes. A dedicated buffering method considering multiple nested extents was developed for sampling linear landscapes (e.g. coastal or fluvial), which traditionally present a challenge for standard round or square sampling buffering approaches.

Location

Tyrrhenian coast of central Italy.

Methods

Based on a database of plant community plots and functional traits from field measurements, for each plot we calculated taxonomic (TD) and functional (FD) diversity, which was further decomposed in functional evenness (FDeven) and mean trait dispersion (FDdisp). Relying on a land‐cover map, we computed a set of landscape metrics describing habitat loss, fragmentation and direct human disturbance at multiple extents around each plot. Diversity measures (TD, FD, FDeven and FDdisp) were then related to the landscape metrics at different scales via linear mixed‐effect models.

Results

Overall, the relationship between plant species diversity and landscape patterns was weak. We observed different responses of TD, FD, FDeven and FDdisp, which only emerged at fine‐medium scales. TD decreased with habitat loss and disturbance, while FD only with disturbance. FDeven decreased in more fragmented areas, while FDdisp was not affected by the selected landscape parameters.

Main conclusions

Like other transitional areas, coastal strand and dune ecosystems exhibit steep gradients in biotic and environmental factors, are dynamic in location, and could be among the earliest to be affected by environmental drivers. However, the response of Mediterranean coastal dune plant diversity to habitat loss and fragmentation is weak. For these reasons, we propose that these plant communities are adapted to the ever‐changing nature of the coastal environment and consequently to changes in landscape pattern.
Temporal trends in safety and complication rates of catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation
Authors: Muthalaly Rahul G. , John Roy M. , Schaeffer Benjamin , Tanigawa Shinichi , Nakamura Tomofumi , Kapur Sunil , Zei Paul C. , Epstein Laurence M. , Tedrow Usha B. , Michaud Gregory F. , Stevenson William G. , Koplan Bruce A.
Published: March 2018

Introduction

Atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation is increasingly common, but is associated with potential major complications. Technology, experience, and protocols have evolved significantly in recent times, and may have impacted procedural safety. We sought to compare AF ablation safety profiles, including complication rates and fluoroscopy times in a “modern” versus “historical” cohort.

Methods and results

We evaluated consecutive patients undergoing AF ablation from a modern cohort (MC) from 2014 to 2015 and a historic cohort (HC) from 2009 to 2011 for complications. Major complications were categorized according to Heart Rhythm Society guidelines. We included 1,425 patients, 726 in the HC and 699 in the MC. The MC was older, had more OSA and less valvular AF. Fifty‐two (3.5%) procedures suffered major complications across the cohorts, with significantly fewer in the MC (5.0% vs. 2.3%, P  =  0.007). The largest reductions were seen in vascular, hemorrhagic, ischemic stroke, and perforation/tamponade related complications. Periprocedural antiplatelets drugs (aHR 2.1 [95 CI 1.1–3.9], P  =  0.02) and force‐sensing catheters (aHR 0.4 [95 CI 0.2–0.9], P  =  0.03) were independently related to major complication rates. Direct oral anticoagulants and uninterrupted anticoagulation were not associated with complications. There was a decrease in both fluoroscopy (–17.4 minutes [95 CI 19.2–15.6], P < 0.0001) and radiofrequency ablation times (−561 seconds [95CI −750 to −371], P < 0.0001).

Conclusions

The safety profile of AF ablation has improved significantly in less than a decade.
Prophylactic pulmonary vein isolation during isthmus ablation for atrial flutter: Three‐year outcomes of the PREVENT AF I study
Authors: Romanov Alexander , Pokushalov Evgeny , Bayramova Sevda , Ponomarev Dmitry , Shabanov Vitaliy , Losik Denis , Stenin Ilya , Elesin Dmitry , Mikheenko Igor , Steinberg Jonathan S.
Published: March 2018

Introduction

The PREVENT AF I study demonstrated that prophylactic pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) in patients with pure typical atrial flutter (AFL) resulted in substantial reduction of new‐onset atrial fibrillation (AF) during 1‐year follow‐up as assessed by continuous implantable cardiac monitor (ICM). The objective of this study was to assess 3‐year outcomes.

Methods and results

Fifty patients with documented AFL were randomized to either cavotricuspid isthmus (CTI) ablation alone (n = 25) or CTI with concomitant PVI (n = 25). The primary endpoint of the study was the occurrence of any atrial tachyarrhythmia with the monthly burden exceeding 0.5% on the ICM. At the end of 3 years, freedom from any atrial tachyarrhythmia was 48% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 32–72%) in the CTI plus PVI group as compared to 20% (95% CI: 9–44%) in the CTI‐only group (P = 0.01). Freedom from redo procedures was also higher: 92% (95% CI: 82–100%) versus 68% (95% CI: 52–89%), respectively (P = 0.027). The 3‐year AF burden favored the combined ablation group: 6.2% versus 16.8% (P = 0.03). In the CTI‐only group, 12 (48%) patients were hospitalized compared to 4 (16%) in the PVI + CTI group (P = 0.03). Two patients in the CTI‐only group developed stroke with no serious adverse events in the PVI + CTI group.

Conclusion

Prophylactic PVI in patients with only typical AFL resulted in a significant reduction of new‐onset AF and burden during long‐term follow‐up as assessed by ICM, with consequent reduction in hospitalizations and need to perform repeat ablation for AF.
Generalized pustular psoriasis: a review and update on treatment
Authors: Hoegler K.M. , John A.M. , Handler M.Z. , Schwartz R.A.
Published: March 2018

Generalized pustular psoriasis (GPP) is a subtype of pustular psoriasis characterized by painful and occasionally disfiguring cutaneous manifestations with sepsis‐like systemic symptoms. Affecting any age and race, GPP can occur with other forms of psoriasis or by itself. Stimuli for flares include medications, infections and environmental triggers. The interleukin family and caspase recruitment domain family have been implicated in its pathogenesis. Other forms of pustular psoriasis include impetigo herpetiformis, palmoplantar pustular psoriasis, annular pustular psoriasis and acrodermatitis continua of Hallopeau. Treatment is not well established, but includes the use of retinoids, methotrexate, cyclosporine, corticosteroids, TNF‐alpha inhibitors, topical therapy and phototherapy. The use of TNF‐alpha inhibitors may result in the formation of antidrug antibodies and should be administered with methotrexate.
Anti‐inflammatory therapy with tumour necrosis factor inhibitors is associated with reduced risk of major adverse cardiovascular events in psoriasis
Authors: Wu J.J. , Joshi A.A. , Reddy S.P. , Batech M. , Egeberg A. , Ahlehoff O. , Mehta N.N.
Published: March 2018

Background

Psoriasis is a systemic chronic inflammatory condition associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Data demonstrating that decreased skin inflammation reduces cardiovascular events in patients with psoriasis may be generalizable to other chronic inflammatory states with heightened cardiovascular risk.

Objective

To determine whether tumour necrosis factor inhibitor (TNFi) therapy is associated with decreased major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) in patients with psoriasis.

Methods

In this retrospective cohort study using the KPSC health plan, patients had at least three ICD‐9 codes for psoriasis and no antecedent MACE codes. Propensity score‐adjusted multivariable Cox regression assessed hazard ratios (HR) of MACE associated with TNFi use.

Results

After adjusting for cardiovascular risk factors, the TNFi cohort had significantly lower MACE HR compared with the topical cohort (HR, 0.80; 95% CI, 0.66–0.98). The oral/phototherapy cohort had similar MACE HR compared with the topical cohort (HR, 1.19 (95% CI, 0.99–1.42)).

Conclusions

We observed significantly lower MACE risk in patients with psoriasis receiving TNFi compared to topical or oral/phototherapy agents. TNFi therapy may have benefits beyond skin disease in mitigating cardiovascular event risk.
RAD‐seq linkage mapping and patterns of segregation distortion in sedges: meiosis as a driver of karyotypic evolution in organisms with holocentric chromosomes
Authors: Escudero Marcial , Hahn Marlene , Hipp Andrew L.
Published: March 2018

Meiotic drive, the class of meiotic mechanisms that drive unequal segregation of alleles among gametes, may be an important force in karyotype evolution. Its role in holocentric organisms, whose chromosomes lack localized centromeres, is poorly understood. We crossed two individuals of Carex scoparia (Cyperaceae) with different chromosome numbers (2n = 33II = 66 × 2n = 32II = 64) to obtain F1 individuals, which we then self‐pollinated to obtain second‐generation (F2) crosses. RAD‐seq was performed for 191 individuals (including the parents, five F1 individuals and 184 F2 individuals). Our F2 linkage map based on stringent editing of the RAD‐seq data set yielded 32 linkage groups. In the final map, 865 loci were located on a linkage map of 3966.99 cM (linkage groups ranged from 24.39 to 193.31 cM in length and contained 5–51 loci each). Three linkage groups exhibit more loci under segregation distortion than expected by chance; within linkage groups, loci exhibiting segregation distortion are clustered. This finding implicates meiotic drive in the segregation of chromosome variants, suggesting that selection of chromosome variants in meiosis may contribute to the establishment and fixation of chromosome variants in Carex, which is renowned for high chromosomal and species diversity. This is an important finding as previous studies demonstrate that chromosome divergence may play a key role in differentiation and speciation in Carex.
Developing Student Evidence‐Based Practice Questionnaire (S‐EBPQ) for undergraduate nursing students: Reliability and validity of a Chinese adaptation
Authors: Zhang Yin‐Ping , Liu Wen‐Hui , Yan Yi‐Tian , Zhang Yao , Wei Huan‐Huan , Porr Caroline
Published: March 2018

Rationale, aims, and objectives

The assessment of evaluating undergraduate nursing students' evidence‐based practice engagement is an important issue, yet few tools have been developed specifically in Mainland China. The purpose of this study was to adapt the Student Evidence‐based Practice Questionnaire (S‐EBPQ) to Mainland China's cultural context and to evaluate the psychometric properties of the newly adapted Chinese S‐EBPQ.

Methods

Cross‐cultural adaptation, including translation of the original S‐EBPQ into Mandarin Chinese language, was performed according to published guidelines. A pilot study was conducted in Mainland China with 25 Chinese undergraduate nursing students. A subsequent validation study was conducted with 400 undergraduate nursing students from Mainland China. Construct validity was assessed by exploratory factor analysis (n = 190) and confirmatory factor analysis (n = 210). Reliability was determined using internal consistency and test‐retest reliability.

Results

The split‐half coefficient for the overall Chinese S‐EBPQ was 0.858. A content validity index of 0.986 was achieved. Principal component analysis resulted in a 4‐factor structure explaining 68.285% of the total variance. The comparative fit index was 0.927, and the root mean squared error of approximation was 0.072 from the confirmatory factor analysis. Known‐group validity was supported by the significant differences according to various characteristics of participants. Internal consistency was high for the Chinese S‐EBPQ reaching a Cronbach α value of 0.934. Test‐retest reliability was 0.821.

Conclusion

The newly cross‐culturally adapted S‐EBPQ possesses adequate validity, test‐retest reliability, and internal consistency and therefore may be utilized in nursing education to assess EBP of undergraduate nursing students in Mainland China.
Single‐use flexible bronchoscopes compared with reusable bronchoscopes: Positive organizational impact but a costly solution
Authors: Châteauvieux Constance , Farah Line , Guérot Emmanuel , Wermert Delphine , Pineau Judith , Prognon Patrice , Borget Isabelle , Martelli Nicolas
Published: March 2018

Rationale, aims, and objectives

There is at present no standard methodology to analyse the organizational impacts (OIs) of medical devices (MDs), and the field is still in its infancy. The aim of the present study was to assess, at a hospital level, the organizational and economic impacts of the introduction of a new MD, specifically the single‐use flexible bronchoscope (FB).

Methods

Both the organizational and economic impacts of the single‐use FB were evaluated in comparison with the reusable FB currently used as standard practice in our institution. First, process maps were created for both devices (reusable and single use). Based on the 12 types of OI defined by Roussel et al, interviews were conducted with all stakeholders, and the positive and negative aspects of the reusable and single‐use processes were analysed. In a second step, microcosting analysis was conducted to determine the most economical balance in use of the 2 technologies.

Results

Process maps highlighted the complexity of the reusable device process when compared with the single‐use device process. Among the 12 types of OI, the single‐use FB process scored better than the reusable FB process in 75% of cases. With the “fleet” of 15 reusable FBs available in our institution, using single‐use FBs would represent an extra cost of €154 per procedure. Single‐use and reusable devices would have the same cost (€232 per procedure) with a theoretical annual activity of 328 bronchoscopies, which is much lower than our current activity (1644 procedures per year).

Conclusions

Organizational impact should be considered when assessing MDs. We show in this study that from an organizational viewpoint, there are many advantages to using single‐use bronchoscopes. However, in economic impact, it is more cost‐effective for our institution, with more than 1500 bronchoscopies performed annually, to use reusable devices.
Ectopic epithelial cell clusters in salmonid intestine are associated with inflammation
Authors: Bjørgen H , Koppang E O , Gunnes G , Hordvik I , Moldal T , Kaldhusdal M , Dale O B
Published: March 2018

An epizootic incidence of intestinal adenocarcinomas was reported in brood fish of Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar L.) in 2009. The condition was associated with a specific diet inducing enteritis and morphological changes. Here, two field trials of fish up to slaughter size were initiated. In Trial 1, two different feed recipes were used. Feed I was predominantly based on marine ingredients, whereas plant ingredients were limited to soy protein concentrate and wheat. Feed II was lower in fishmeal and without soya protein, which was substituted with plant proteins from other sources. In Trial 2, a commercial feed (Feed III) was included. No macroscopic tumours were observed in 300 fish (Trial 1). At the end of both trials, samples from five different segments of the gastrointestinal tract of a total of 39 fish were investigated with morphological methods. Here, we show the presence of ectopic proliferating epithelial cells only occurring in inflamed intestine and predominantly in the second segment of the mid‐intestine. Presence of ectopic epithelial cells in submucosal inflammatory foci may indicate early stages in tumorigenesis, but other possibilities such as proliferative enteric disorders cannot be excluded. Together with inflammation, carcinogenesis should be a focus of investigation in future feed trials.
Detection and characterization of a rhabdovirus causing mortality in black bullhead catfish, Ameiurus melas
Authors: Bedendo Giulia , Panzarin Valentina , Fortin Andrea , Zamperin Gianpiero , Pretto Tobia , Buratin Alessandra , Quartesan Rosita , Sabbion Matteo , Salogni Cristian , Pascoli Francesco , Toffan Anna
Published: March 2018

This study fully describes a severe disease outbreak occurred in 2016 in black bullhead catfish farmed in Italy. Affected fish showed nervous clinical signs as well as emaciations and haemorrhagic petechiae on the skin at the fin bases, abdomen and gills. Viral isolation in cell culture allowed the subsequent identification of a rhabdovirus, tentatively named ictalurid rhabdovirus (IcRV), through electron microscopy, immunofluorescence and whole genome sequencing (WGS). The newly isolated virus, together with 14 additional viral strains stored in our repository and detected during similar mortality episodes in the period 1993–2016, was phylogenetically analysed on the basis of the nucleoprotein and the glycoprotein nucleotide and amino acid sequences. The genetic distances among Italian IcRV strains were also estimated. Our results show that all the IcRV strains belong to the genus Sprivivirus and are closely related to the tench rhabdovirus (TenRV). Italian catfish production is constantly decreasing, mainly due to viral infections, which include the newly characterized IcRV. Data presented in this work will assist to investigate the molecular epidemiology and the diffusive dynamics of this virus and to develop adequate surveillance activities.
Liraglutide ameliorated peripheral neuropathy in diabetic rats: Involvement of oxidative stress, inflammation and extracellular matrix remodeling
Authors: Moustafa Passant E. , Abdelkader Noha F. , El Awdan Sally A. , El‐Shabrawy Osama A. , Zaki Hala F.
Published: March 2018

Diabetic peripheral neuropathy is one of the most common microvascular complications that occurs with both type 1 and type 2 diabetes mellitus. It has a significant negative impact on patients’ quality of life; as it starts with loss of limbs’ sensation and may lead to lower limb amputation. This study aimed at investigating the effect of liraglutide on peripheral neuropathy in diabetic rats. Experimental diabetes was induced by single intraperitoneal injections of nicotinamide (50 mg/kg) and streptozotocin (52.5 mg/kg). Rats were allocated into five groups. Two groups were given saline or liraglutide (0.8 mg/kg, s.c.). Three diabetic groups were either untreated or treated with liraglutide (0.8 mg/kg, s.c.) or pregabalin (10 mg/kg, i.p.). After 2 weeks of treatment, behavioral, biochemical, histopathological, and immunohistochemical investigations were performed. Treatment with liraglutide‐restored animals’ body weight, normalized blood glucose, decreased glycated hemoglobin, and increased insulin levels. In parallel, it normalized motor coordination and the latency withdrawal time of both tail flick and hind paw cold allodynia tests and reversed histopathological alterations. Treatment with liraglutide also normalized malondialdehyde, matrix metalloproteinase‐2 and ‐9 contents in sciatic nerve. Likewise, it decreased sciatic nerve nitric oxide and interleukin‐6 contents, DNA fragmentation and expression of cyclooxygenase‐2. Meanwhile, it increased superoxide dismutase and interleukin‐10 contents in sciatic nerve. These findings indicate the neuroprotective effect of liraglutide against diabetic peripheral neuropathy probably via modulating oxidative stress, inflammation, and extracellular matrix remodeling.

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DOES ICT GENERATE ECONOMIC GROWTH? A META‐REGRESSION ANALYSIS
Authors: Stanley T. D. , Doucouliagos Hristos , Steel Piers
Published: March 2018

Despite phenomenal technological progress and exponential growth in computing power, economic growth remains comparative sluggish. In this paper, we investigate two core issues: (1) is there really no connection between ICT and national economic growth? and (2) what factors moderate the ICT–growth relationship? We apply meta‐regression analysis to 466 estimates drawn from 59 econometric studies that explore the Solow or Productivity Paradox that there is little impact of ICT on economic growth and productivity. We explore the differential impact of ICT on developed and developing countries and the differential impact of different types of ICT: landlines, cell phones, computer technology and Internet access. After accommodating potential econometric misspecification bias and publication selection bias, we detect evidence that ICT has indeed contributed positively to economic growth, at least on average. Both developed and developing countries benefit from landline and cell technologies, with cell technologies’ growth effect approximately twice as strong as landlines. However, developed countries gain significantly more from computing than do developing countries. In contrast, we find little evidence that the Internet has had a positive impact on growth.
Psychosocial safety climate as a moderator of the moderators: Contextualizing JDR models and emotional demands effects
Authors: Loh May Young , Idris Mohd Awang , Dollard Maureen F. , Isahak Marzuki
Published: March 2018

Psychosocial safety climate (PSC) is a facet‐specific aspect of organizational climate that pertains to employees’ psychological health. We sought to deepen our understanding of how and when resources function by considering the role of PSC as a contextual factor for job demands‐resources model. We explained this using two different mechanisms – PSC as a resource passageway (i.e., channelling, supplying, bolstering, complementing, compensating resources) or PSC as a safety signal (i.e., enabling resource use) effect. Using longitudinal data from 429 Malaysian health care workers from 53 teams and hierarchical linear modelling (HLM), we found team PSC was a stronger moderator of emotional demands than control or rewards on psychological health problems (emotional exhaustion and somatic symptoms), after controlling for the baseline outcomes. A three‐way interaction of team PSC at Time 1 with demands and resources (rewards only) at Time 2 showed that PSC is able to moderate the moderation relationship of demands and resources. Specifically, PSC, as a resource passageway, is providing a range of resources, that likely to compensate and complement low rewards. Hence, when both PSC and rewards were low, emotional demands had the strongest effect on psychological health. This result is robust as it was validated using HLM and split samples of PSC at the upper level. Given the important contextual role of PSC as a ‘moderator of the moderators’, building PSC should be the focus of workplace interventions to protect the psychological health of workers.

Practitioner points

Psychosocial safety climate may compensate for job resources, particularly rewards in an organization to protect workers’ psychological health.

Psychosocial safety climate buffers the detrimental effect of emotional demands on workers’ psychological health better than rewards and control.
Determination of the occlusal vertical dimension in edentulous patients using lateral cephalograms
Authors: Enkling N. , Enkling‐Scholl J. , Albrecht D. , Bornstein M. M. , Schimmel M.
Published: March 2018

The determination of the occlusal vertical dimension (OVD) in edentulous patients is based on clinical assessment with high variability. This study tested the hypothesis: The average OVD in edentulous patients with conventional dentures is too low compared to orthodontic norms, when only clinical parameters are used for the determination of the OVD. Edentulous patients with conventional full dentures were enrolled. Clinical parameters were judged by two senior prosthodontists. Digital lateral cephalograms were taken and served to calculate the OVD according to the lower face height angle (ANS‐Xi‐D) taking tooth‐independent facial growth patterns into account. The ANS‐Xi‐D angle was compared with reference values by applying one‐sample mean comparison tests. Thirty‐six participants (17 female, 19 male; mean age 65.3 ± 10.6 years) were enrolled in this study. Clinically, the OVD of four dentures was judged too low, in one case too high, and in the other 31 cases as correct. The mean ANS‐Xi‐D angle was 48.28°±4.86 and statistically not different to the norm value of 49°±4 (n.s.). There was a tendency that the ANS‐Xi‐D angle was different between participants with different tooth‐independent facial growth patterns (ANOVA, P = .0548). Predominantly, clinically sufficient prostheses show adequate ANS‐Xi‐D angles. Short‐face type denture patients are often restored to comply with mesiofacial norms. The determination of the OVD based on lateral cephalography is not recommendable to be a standard diagnostic parameter. Orthodontic norms are derived from dentate cohorts and might not take the continuing facial growth and other confounding factors of edentulous subjects into account.
Effect of Alkaline Peroxides on the Surface of Cobalt Chrome Alloy: An In Vitro Study
Authors: Vasconcelos Glenda Lara Lopes , Curylofo Patricia Almeida , Raile Priscilla Neves , Macedo Ana Paula , Paranhos Helena Freitas Oliveira , Pagnano Valeria Oliveira
Published: March 2018

Purpose

Removable denture hygiene care is very important for the longevity of the rehabilitation treatment; however, it is necessary to analyze the effects that denture cleansers can cause on the surfaces of prostheses. Thus, this study evaluated the effect of alkaline peroxide‐effervescent tablets on the surface of cobalt‐chromium alloys (Co‐Cr) used in removable partial dentures.

Materials and Methods

Circular metallic specimens (12 × 3 mm) were fabricated and were immersed (n = 16) in: control, Polident 3 Minute (P3M), Steradent (S), Efferdent (E), Polident for Partials (PFP), and Corega Tabs (CT). The surface roughness (μm) (n = 10) was measured before and after periods of cleanser immersion corresponding to 0.5, 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 years. Ion release was analyzed (n = 5) for Co, Cr, and molybdenum (Mo). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis and an Energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDS) were conducted in one specimen. The surface roughness data were statistically analyzed (α = 0.05) with the Kruskal‐Wallis test to compare the solutions, and the Friedman test compared the immersion durations. Ion release analysis was performed using 2‐way ANOVA and Tukey's test.

Results

There was no significant surface roughness difference when comparing the solutions (p > 0.05) and the immersion durations (p = 0.137). Regarding ion release (μg/L), CT, E, and control produced a greater release of Co ions than S (p < 0.05). CT produced a greater release of Cr ions than control, S, and P3M (p < 0.05). Finally, E caused the greatest release of Mo ions (p < 0.05). SEM confirmed that the solutions did not damage the surfaces and EDS confirmed that there were no signs of oxidation.

Conclusion

The various solutions tested did not have any deleterious effects on the Co‐Cr alloy surface. Steradent, however, presented the smallest ionic release.
Rehabilitation of Edentulism and Mortality: A Systematic Review
Authors: Gupta Avni , Felton David A. , Jemt Torsten , Koka Sreenivas
Published: March 2018

Purpose

It has been shown that tooth loss is associated with an increased risk of early mortality, and that prosthetic rehabilitation of edentulism improves quality of life and reduces morbidity. This review examines association between prosthetic rehabilitation of the edentulous state with a complete denture and mortality.

Methods

A systematic search using combinations of related keywords for “complete denture” and “mortality” was performed on PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. A reference search of included articles and author contacts was also performed.

Results

None of the studies reported results for association between mortality and wearing complete dentures among edentulous individuals; however, based on the published methods and results, a total of 15 studies were found to be eligible for author contacts to obtain relevant data. Overall, 5 eligible studies were included and critically evaluated to summarize their findings. The follow‐up period in these studies ranged from 3 to 24 years, and the age group of included samples ranging from 52 to 105 years. The proportion of individuals not wearing dentures ranged from 3.0% to 13.3%. Four of the included studies showed fewer individuals without complete dentures surviving over the follow‐up years as compared to the group wearing complete dentures. One of two studies that could adjust for certain confounders found no significant difference in mortality after adjusting, but another study found a 42% reduced risk of dying among those wearing complete dentures, as compared to those not wearing complete dentures after adjusting for age, sex, educational level, smoking, alcohol drinking, body mass index, time spent walking daily, medical history, psychological distress score, energy intake, and protein intake. Due to the small sample size of nondenture wearers, it was not possible to analyze with statistical rigor the comparative risk of dying associated with wearing or not wearing complete dentures.

Conclusion

Most of the included studies indicated a higher proportion of deceased edentulous patients not using dentures as compared to denture wearers. Nevertheless, small sample size prevents a definite conclusion being drawn regarding a relationship between prosthetic rehabilitation and mortality among edentulous individuals.
Legitimating the Philippines as a language learning space: Transnational Korean youth's experiences and evaluations
Authors: Jang In Chull
Published: March 2018

This paper examines how a peripheral English‐speaking country is constructed as a legitimate language learning space in the global English language teaching (ELT) industry by investigating South Koreans’ recent engagement in Philippine English education. It focuses on a short‐term English study abroad program, in which the Philippines serves as a transit place prior to students’ moving to a Western English‐speaking country. Drawing data from ethnographic research on South Korean youth studying English abroad, the article analyzes why Korean students seek Philippine English education in spite of their apparent pursuit of authentic English, and how they evaluate their learning experience in the Philippines. This paper finds that the Philippines holds a niche market in the global ELT industry by separating a space for English learning from other public and everyday spaces of English use and offering pedagogically intensive but emotionally supportive environments to English learners.
Sensory characterization of Nile tilapia croquettes enriched with flaxseed flour using free‐choice profiling and common components and specific weights analysis
Authors: Fuchs Renata H. B. , Ribeiro Ricardo P. , Bona Evandro , Kitzberger Cíntia S. G. , de Souza Carolina , Matsushita Makoto
Published: March 2018

This research described sensory characteristics of freeze‐dried mixtures of tilapia croquettes enriched with flaxseed flour using free‐choice profiling (FCP) and analyzed the data through the common components and specific weights analysis (CCSWA). Enriched croquette was defined by brown color, odor and taste of flour, and creaminess. Control croquette was defined by odor and taste of fish, odor and spicy flavor, and frying flavor. CCSWA captured 92.1% of the variance with the first two common components (CC). CC1 (82.8% of the variance) was able to correctly discriminate the products, while CC2 (9.3% of the variance) separates the repetition of the same product. Furthermore, CCSWA allows a differentiated analysis of the importance of the judges, proving to be a good alternative to statistical analysis for FCP.

Practical applications

Free‐choice profile (FCP) technique is a descriptive sensory method that has as main advantage the elimination of the training phase of the panelists, which makes it faster and more advantageous. Traditionally, the results from these methods are analyzed through generalized procrustes analysis (GPA). In this work, the results of the sensory description of tilapia croquettes enriched with flaxseed flour were analyzed through common components and specific weights analysis (CCSWA). Despite presenting various sensory differences, the addition of flaxseed flour to the product is viable, since it improves the fatty acid composition. The CCSWA enables a differentiated analysis of each judges, proving to be a method that allows a more detailed analysis of the results obtained by the FCP.
Effects of oxidative stress induced by high dosage of dietary iron ingested on intestinal damage and caecal microbiota in Chinese Yellow broilers
Authors: Gou Z. Y. , Li L. , Fan Q. L. , Lin X. J. , Jiang Z. Y. , Zheng C. T. , Ding F. Y. , Jiang S. Q.
Published: March 2018

The objective of this trial was to test the effects of oxidative stress induced by a high dosage of dietary iron on intestinal lesion and the microbiological compositions in caecum in Chinese Yellow broilers. A total of 450 1‐day‐old male chicks were randomly allotted into three groups. Supplemental iron (0, 700 and 1,400 mg/kg) was added to the basal diet resulting in three treatments containing 245, 908 and 1,651 mg/kg Fe (measured value) in diet respectively. Each treatment consisted of six replicate pens with 25 birds per pen. Jejunal enterocyte ultrastructure was observed by transmission electron microscopy. The results showed that a high dosage of dietary iron induced oxidative stress in broilers. Dilated endoplasmic reticulum (ER), autophagosome formation of jejunal enterocytes and decreased villi were caused by this oxidative stress. Compared to the control, concentration of the malondialdehyde (MDA) in jejunal mucosa in the 908 and 1,651 mg/kg Fe groups increased by 180% (p < .01) and 155% respectively (p < .01); activity of copper‐zinc superoxide dismutase (Cu/ZnSOD) increased in jejunum (p < .01); and the concentration of plasma reduced glutathione (GSH) decreased by 34.9% (p < .01) in birds fed 1,651 mg/kg Fe. Gene expression of nuclear factor, erythroid‐derived 2‐like 2 (Nrf2) and zonula occludens‐1 (ZO‐1), in the higher dietary Fe groups was enhanced (p < .05). Species of microbial flora in caecum increased caused by oxidative stress. The PCR‐DGGE (denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis) dendrograms revealed different microbiota (65% similarity coefficient) between the control and iron‐supplemented groups (p < .05). These data suggest high dosage of iron supplement in feed diet can induce oxidative stress in Chinese Yellow broilers, and composition of microbiota in the caecum changed. It implied there should be no addition of excess iron when formulating diets in Chinese Yellow broilers.
A detailed study of leaf micromorphology and anatomy of New World Vitis L. subgenus Vitis within a phylogenetic and ecological framework reveals evolutionary convergence
Authors: Ickert‐Bond Stefanie M. , Harris AJ , Lutz Sue , Wen Jun
Published: March 2018

We investigated leaf anatomy and micromorphology in the New World Vitis using light and scanning electron microscopy to understand the correlation of these traits to molecular phylogenetic relationships and environmental affinity. We observed traits known to differ among species of Vitis with importance in traditional taxonomy of Vitis: trichome type, stomata morphology, mesophyll organization, and midrib vascularization. We found that traits associated with water conductance and photosynthesis comprised the highest loadings of axis one of a principal components analysis (PCA) while traits related to gas exchange (i.e., the stomatal apparatus) had high loadings on axis two. Using the PCA, we identified seven clusters of species, which showed little correlation to recently reported molecular phylogenetic relationships. Moreover, analyses using Bayes Traits and Bayesian Binary Method revealed little to no phylogenetic signal in trait evolution. PCA axes one and two separated species occurring in dry southwestern North American habitats from those in mesic places. For example, a cluster of V. monticola and V. arizonica occurred adjacent to a cluster of V. californica and V. girdiana in ordination space, and the latter three species share key leaf anatomical traits. Nevertheless, among these, only V. arizonica and V. girdiana are closely related according to molecular phylogeny. Thus, the leaf micromorphological/anatomical traits of Vitis observed in this study are highly correlated with environment, but not phylogenetic relationships. We expect that trait similarities among distantly related species may result from evolutionary convergences, especially within xeric habitats of western North America.
Estimating MA Parameters through Factorization of the Autocovariance Matrix and an MA‐Sieve Bootstrap
Authors: McMurry Timothy L. , Politis Dimitris N.
Published: March 2018

A new method to estimate the moving‐average (MA) coefficients of a stationary time series is proposed. The new approach is based on the modified Cholesky factorization of a consistent estimator of the autocovariance matrix. Convergence rates are established, and the new estimates are used to implement an MA‐type sieve bootstrap. Finite‐sample simulations corroborate the good performance of the proposed methodology.
Barriers to and enablers of implementing antimicrobial stewardship programs in veterinary practices
Authors: Hardefeldt Laura Y. , Gilkerson J. R. , Billman‐Jacobe H. , Stevenson M. A. , Thursky K. , Bailey K. E. , Browning G. F.
Published: March 2018

Background

Antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) programs are yet to be widely implemented in veterinary practice and medical programs are unlikely to be directly applicable to veterinary settings.

Objective

To gain an in‐depth understanding of the factors that influence effective AMS in veterinary practices in Australia.

Methods

A concurrent explanatory mixed methods design was used. The quantitative phase of the study consisted of an online questionnaire to assess veterinarians’ attitudes to antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and antimicrobial use in animals, and the extent to which AMS currently is implemented (knowingly or unknowingly). The qualitative phase used semi‐structured interviews to gain an understanding of the barriers to and enablers of AMS in veterinary practices. Data were collected and entered into NVivo v.11, openly coded and analyzed according to mixed methods data analysis principles.

Results

Companion animal, equine, and bovine veterinarians participated in the study. Veterinary practices rarely had antimicrobial prescribing policies. The key barriers were a lack of AMS governance structures, client expectations and competition between practices, cost of microbiological testing, and lack of access to education, training and AMS resources. The enablers were concern for the role of veterinary antimicrobial use in development of AMR in humans, a sense of pride in the service provided, and preparedness to change prescribing practices.

Conclusion and Clinical Importance

Our study can guide development and establishment of AMS programs in veterinary practices by defining the major issues that influence the prescribing behavior of veterinarians.
Prospective long‐term evaluation of parenteral hydroxocobalamin supplementation in juvenile beagles with selective intestinal cobalamin malabsorption (Imerslund‐Gräsbeck syndrome)
Authors: Kook Peter Hendrik , Reusch C. E. , Hersberger M.
Published: March 2018

Background

Prospective studies on maintenance treatment for Beagles with hereditary selective cobalamin (Cbl) malabsorption (Imerslund‐Gräsbeck syndrome, IGS) are lacking. In our experience, measurement of methylmalonic acid (MMA), a Cbl‐dependent metabolite, seems more helpful to monitor Cbl status as compared with serum Cbl concentrations.

Objectives

To evaluate a standardized Cbl supplementation scheme in Beagles with IGS. We hypothesized that a single parenteral dose of 1 mg hydroxocobalamin (OH‐Cbl) would maintain clinical and metabolic remission for up to 2 months.

Animals

Six client‐owned juvenile Beagles with genetically confirmed IGS and 28 healthy control dogs.

Methods

Prospective study. Monthly IM OH‐Cbl (1 mg) supplementation was done over a median of 9 months (range, 6‐13) in 6 dogs, followed by bimonthly (every 2 months) injections in 5 dogs over a median of 6 months (range, 3‐10). Health status was assessed by routine clinical examinations at injection time points and owner observations. Voided urine samples were collected immediately before OH‐Cbl injections for measurement of MMA‐to‐creatinine concentrations using a gas‐liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry (GC‐MS) method.

Results

All dogs were clinically healthy while receiving monthly and bimonthly OH‐Cbl supplementation. Urinary MMA results in healthy dogs ranged from 1.3 to 76.5 mmol/mol creatinine (median, 2.9). Median urinary MMA concentrations did not differ between dogs with IGS receiving monthly (n = 49; 5.3 mmol/mol creatinine; range, 2.3‐50.4) and bimonthly (n = 31; 5.3 mmol/mol creatinine; range, 1.6‐50) injections.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

A maintenance parenteral dose of 1 mg OH‐Cbl monthly or bimonthly appears adequate in Beagles with IGS monitored by metabolic testing.