bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tribute to Joan Acker (1924–2016): Views from ‘the South’
Authors: Pringle Judith K.
Published: February 2018

This short personal piece provides reflections on the contribution of Joan Acker's theorising and insights for gendered organization scholars working in New Zealand. We have positive recollections of Joan Acker the person, as well as her sharp and thoughtful analyses of gendered inequalities. Her contributions moved beyond gender as intersectionality influenced her later works. Her thoughts on positive organizational change are considered and finally, we offer quotes that will endure.
RETAKING IN HIGH STAKES EXAMS: IS LESS MORE?
Authors: Krishna Kala , Lychagin Sergey , Frisancho Veronica
Published: February 2018

Placement, both in university and in the civil service, according to performance in competitive exams is the norm in much of the world. Repeat taking of such exams is common despite the private and social costs it imposes. We develop and estimate a structural model of exam retaking using data from Turkey's university placement exam. Limiting retaking results in all agents gaining ex ante and most gaining ex post. This result comes from a general equilibrium effect: Retakers crowd the market and impose negative spillovers on others by raising acceptance cutoffs.
A new mobile learning module using smartphone wallpapers in identification of medical fungi for medical students and residents
Authors: Liu Ren‐Feng , Wang Fang‐Ying , Yen Hsi , Sun Pei‐Lun , Yang Chih‐Hsun
Published: February 2018

Introduction

Medical students and residents will encounter many cutaneous fungal infections in medical practice. However, the training for identification of medical fungi has been insufficient due to limited lecture‐based courses. The objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of using smartphone‐based wallpapers in learning the microscopic morphology and colony characteristics of medical fungi for medical students and residents.

Methods

A smartphone‐based wallpaper learning module using a wallpaper‐changing software application (app) was introduced in this 3‐week training course. Twenty‐six participants were enrolled and divided into two groups: nondermatology trainees, including medical students and postgraduate year one (PGY‐1) doctors who have not yet specialized, and dermatology trainees (dermatology residents). All of the participants completed a 3‐week training course, and the effectiveness of the module was evaluated by pre‐ and post‐course multiple‐choice examinations.

Results

Both nondermatology and dermatology trainees scored significantly higher in post‐course examinations than pre‐course examinations (P < 0.001). The dermatology trainees performed better than nondermatology trainees in the pre‐course examinations (P < 0.001). In the post‐course examinations, no significant difference in scores was noted between dermatology and nondermatology trainees (P = 0.573).

Discussion

The smartphone‐based wallpaper learning module was effective in helping medical students and residents learn and memorize morphologic characteristics of fungi. In comparison to conventional lecture‐based learning, this new mobile module was more readily accessible and convenient for learners to engage in learning.
Treatment response to omalizumab in patients with refractory chronic spontaneous urticaria
Authors: Syrigos Nikolaos , Grapsa Dimitra , Zande Maria , Tziotou Marianna , Syrigou Ekaterini
Published: February 2018

Background

Previous clinical trials have demonstrated the efficacy and safety of the anti‐IgE monoclonal antibody omalizumab in chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) not responding to antihistamine treatment. The primary aim of our study was to describe the response patterns of patients with refractory CSU treated with omalizumab in a real‐world clinical setting.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of medical records of 20 patients with refractory CSU was performed. Demographic, clinical, and laboratory features were retrieved and analyzed in correlation with treatment data.

Results

Mean age of our patient population was 54.5 years, while the majority were females (15/20 cases, 75%). Mean disease duration prior to omalizumab administration was 21.8 months. All patients had a history of chronic urticaria, refractory to high antihistamine and corticosteroid treatment, and responded favorably to omalizumab after administration of 1–5 doses of omalizumab; complete response was observed in 17/20 patients (85%) and well‐controlled disease in the remaining 3/20 patients (15%). In a subset of cases (6/20, 30%), best response to omalizumab was achieved after interval administration of a 9‐day course of methylprednisolone (total dose of 188 mg). Late response to omalizumab (after three‐month treatment) was significantly correlated (P = 0.026) with shorter disease duration before initiation of omalizumab.

Conclusion

In the present series, omalizumab, either alone or in combination with a short‐term course of corticosteroids, was highly effective in resolution of refractory CSU. Furthermore, disease duration prior to omalizumab had a significant effect on timing of response.
Effects of Ocimum basilicum and Ruta chalepensis hydrosols on Aphis gossypii and Tetranychus urticae
Authors: Traka Ch. K. , Petrakis E. A. , Kimbaris A. C. , Polissiou M. G. , Perdikis D. Ch.
Published: February 2018

Hydrosols are by‐products derived during the extraction of essential oils and are produced in a high amount and at very low cost. Their effects on crop pests have been little studied, although recent studies have shown their insecticidal properties. In this work, the effects of hydrosols derived from Ocimum basilicum (sweet basil) and Ruta chalepensis (rue) were investigated on the serious crop pests Aphis gossypii and Tetranychus urticae. The main compounds of basil hydrosol were linalool (66.5%), eugenol (18.9%) and eucalyptol (7.1%), while rue's were 2‐nonanone and 2‐undecanone at 77.0% and 8.9%, respectively. The mortality and fecundity of A. gossypii and T. urticae were recorded for 7 days after application of hydrosols. Apterous adult aphids and female mites were sprayed on cucumber leaves in special structures. Both hydrosols caused significant mortality rates, which fluctuated between 46.0% and 64.0%. The negative control (deionized water) caused no mortality, while for the positive controls (synthetic pesticides) was 100%. The fecundity of A. gossypii and T. urticae was significantly reduced after the application of the hydrosols (17.1 nymphs of A. gossypii and 22.8 eggs for T. urticae had been produced per female after treated with the hydrosol of R. chalepensis and O. basilicum, in comparison with 41.6 and 49.5 in the negative controls, respectively). In conclusion, the hydrosols from both plants presented an important effect on the mortality and fecundity of both pests.
Re‐embodying eating after surgery for oesophageal cancer: Patients' lived experiences of participating in an education and counselling nutritional intervention
Authors: Missel Malene , Hansen Mette , Jackson Rie , Siemsen Mette , Schønau Mai Nanna
Published: February 2018

Aims and objectives

To provide in‐depth insight into patients' lived experiences of participating in an education and counselling nutritional intervention after curative surgery for oesophageal cancer.

Background

Surgery for oesophageal cancer carries a risk of malnutrition. The consequences of nutritional problems may lead to increased morbidity and mortality postoperatively and have consequences for convalescence, rehabilitation and quality of life.

Design

Qualitative study based on a phenomenological approach. The theoretical framework was grounded in the philosophy of Merleau‐Ponty.

Methods

Qualitative interviews were conducted with 10 patients who participated in an education and counselling nutritional intervention after surgery for oesophageal squamous‐cell carcinoma. Data were analysed according to the principles of Kvale and Brinkmann, and their three levels of interpretation were applied.

Findings

The essence of experiencing the education and counselling nutritional intervention can be divided into three themes: embodied disorientation, living with increased attention to bodily functions and re‐embodying eating.

Conclusions

Patients were living with increased attention to bodily functions and tried to find a balance between the task of eating and nutritional needs. Despite the embodied perceptions of alterations after oesophageal cancer surgery, the patients developed high levels of bodily awareness and skills in self‐management. This process was characterised by reconnecting to the body and re‐embodying eating. The intervention empowered the patients to regain some control of their own bodies in an effort to regain agency in their own lives.

Relevance to clinical practice

There is a need for systematic long‐term follow‐up after surgery for oesophageal cancer regarding nutrition. The findings of this study can inform future supportive nutrition care service development aimed at supporting patients to learn to eat sufficiently after oesophageal resection.
Status of knowledge on student‐learning environments in nursing homes: A mixed‐method systematic review
Authors: Husebø Anne Marie Lunde , Storm Marianne , Våga Bodil Bø , Rosenberg Adriana , Akerjordet Kristin
Published: February 2018

Aim and objective

To give an overview of empirical studies investigating nursing homes as a learning environment during nursing students’ clinical practice.

Background

A supportive clinical learning environment is crucial to students’ learning and for their development into reflective and capable practitioners. Nursing students’ experience with clinical practice can be decisive in future workplace choices. A competent workforce is needed for the future care of older people. Opportunities for maximum learning among nursing students during clinical practice studies in nursing homes should therefore be explored.

Design

Mixed‐method systematic review usingPRISMAguidelines, on learning environments in nursing homes, published in English between 2005–2015.

Methods

Search ofCINAHLwith Full Text, Academic Search Premier,MEDLINEand SocINDEXwith Full Text, in combination with journal hand searches. Three hundred and thirty‐six titles were identified. Twenty studies met the review inclusion criteria. Assessment of methodological quality was based on the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool. Data were extracted and synthesised using a data analysis method for integrative reviews.

Results

Twenty articles were included. The majority of the studies showed moderately high methodological quality. Four main themes emerged from data synthesis: “Student characteristic and earlier experience”; “Nursing home ward environment”; “Quality of mentoring relationship and learning methods”; and “Students’ achieved nursing competencies.”

Conclusion

Nursing home learning environments may be optimised by a well‐prepared academic‐clinical partnership, supervision by encouraging mentors and high‐quality nursing care of older people. Positive learning experiences may increase students’ professional development through achievement of basic nursing skills and competencies and motivate them to choose the nursing home as their future workplace.

Relevance to clinical practice

An optimal learning environment can be ensured by thorough preplacement preparations in academia and in nursing home wards, continuous supervision and facilitation of team learning.
Effects of patient participation in the management of daily nursing goals on function recovery and resilience in surgical patients
Authors: Lee Jisun , Seo Eunji , Choi Jieun , Min Ja
Published: February 2018

Aims and objective

To examine the effects of active patient participation in the management of daily nursing goal on surgical patient recovery.

Background

Nursing processes involving patient participation enable nursing interventions solely based on individual needs and expectations. This permits the establishment of nurse–patient treatment goals and supports permanent and effective nursing interventions through evaluation activities.

Design

A quasi‐experiment that relies on a nonequivalent pretest–post‐test design for the control group.

Methods

A nursing intervention involving patient participation was applied to patients who underwent digestive cancer surgery in a surgical ward in the Republic of Korea. A daily goals sheet for patient participation was developed. Twenty‐nine patients in the experimental group received the intervention every day from postoperative days 1–7 through the daily goals sheet. Data were collected on recovery in mobility, recovery of bowel movements, peak expiratory flow rate and pain and resilience after the experimental intervention. The control group contained 27 patients who were provided with routine nursing care alone.

Results

The daily nursing goal management group showed more rapid recovery in bowel movement, higher peak expiratory flow rate and lower pain scores than the control group. The daily nursing goal management group also had significantly higher resilience than the control group.

Conclusions

Daily nursing goal management is an effective nursing intervention for improving function recovery and resilience in surgical patients.

Relevance to clinical practice

Patient participation in daily nursing goal management is an effective nursing intervention applicable to nurse–patient treatment goals and supports permanent and effective nursing interventions through evaluation activities.
Correlation of adipokines and markers of oxidative stress in women with gestational diabetes mellitus and their newborns
Authors: Shang Min , Dong Xu , Hou Lin
Published: February 2018

Aim

We have shown that some markers of oxidative stress were higher in women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). This study examines the relationship between adipokines and oxidative stress and their potential effects in pregnant women.

Methods

Three markers of oxidative stress (malondialdehyde, 8‐isoprostane and xanthine oxidase) and three adipokines (leptin, adiponectin and resistin) were measured in maternal plasma, cord plasma and placenta of 208 pregnant women.

Results

Among all these women, 105 were diagnosed with GDM while the other 103 were controls. Leptin, resistin, malondialdehyde, xanthine oxidase and 8‐isoprostane in maternal plasma, cord plasma and placenta were significantly higher while maternal adiponectin significantly lower in women with GDM (P < 0.05). Adipokines in maternal plasma, cord plasma and placenta were positively correlated with markers of oxidative stress. Both markers of oxidative stress and adipokines were correlated inversely with homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance whereas positively with quantitative insulin sensitivity check index (P < 0.01). Adiponectin is negatively correlated with leptin and resistin. Placental/cord leptin and cord resistin levels were higher in the macrosomia while maternal adiponectin level was lower (P < 0.05) than normal birthweight newborns. Both markers of oxidative stress and adipokines in maternal and cord plasma are negatively correlated with newborn birthweight (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Adipokines interact with markers of oxidative stress, both of which lead to insulin resistance, GDM and macrosomia. It has long been known that placenta involves in the development of GDM. Adipokines might participate in this process and need to be confirmed by further studies.
Pregnancy and delivery outcomes from patients with repaired anomalous origin of the left coronary artery from the pulmonary artery
Authors: Kanoh Miki , Inai Kei , Shinohara Tokuko , Shimada Eriko , Shimizu Mikiko , Tomimatsu Hirofumi , Ogawa Masaki , Nakanishi Toshio
Published: February 2018

Aim

We investigated the clinical courses before and during pregnancy and after delivery in patients with repaired anomalous origin of the left coronary artery from the pulmonary artery to determine the impact of the hemodynamic changes and cardiac function on the selection of the appropriate mode of delivery.

Methods

Six patients who underwent coronary artery reimplantation delivered 10 infants. We scrutinized the patients’ hemodynamic changes on echocardiographs and the plasma brain natriuretic peptide levels before and during pregnancy and after delivery, the perinatal outcomes and maternal and fetal events.

Results

All patients were asymptomatic and categorized as having New York Heart Association functional class I before pregnancy. In 8 of 10 pregnancies, vaginal deliveries were performed; two elective cesarean sections were performed because of symptomatic heart failure. The hemodynamic parameters were stable throughout pregnancy and postdelivery, and no maternal or fetal events occurred in the patients who underwent vaginal deliveries. One cesarean section patient developed significant heart failure during the late second and third trimesters, which was accompanied by hemodynamic changes, including increased brain natriuretic peptide levels, left ventricular diastolic dysfunction and worsening arrhythmias, and thrombosis and post‐partum hemorrhage occurred postdelivery. The baby had intrauterine growth retardation and small for gestational age. None of the babies had congenital anomalies.

Conclusion

Pregnancy was safe in most of the asymptomatic patients long after anomalous origin of the left coronary artery from the pulmonary artery was repaired. Symptomatic heart failure might occur during pregnancy in patients with persisting myocardial damage. Pregnancy and delivery should be carefully managed.
TFM classification and staging of oral submucous fibrosis: A new proposal
Authors: Arakeri Gururaj , Thomas Deepak , Aljabab Abdulsalam S. , Hunasgi Santosh , Rai Kirthi Kumar , Hale Beverley , Fonseca Felipe Paiva , Gomez Ricardo Santiago , Rahimi Siavash , Merkx Matthias A. W. , Brennan Peter A.
Published: February 2018

Background

We have evaluated the rationale of existing grading and staging schemes of oral submucous fibrosis (OSMF) based on how they are categorized. A novel classification and staging scheme is proposed.

Methods

A total of 300 OSMF patients were evaluated for agreement between functional, clinical, and histopathological staging. Bilateral biopsies were assessed in 25 patients to evaluate for any differences in histopathological staging of OSMF in the same mouth. Extent of clinician agreement for categorized staging data was evaluated using Cohen's weighted kappa analysis. Cross‐tabulation was performed on categorical grading data to understand the intercorrelation, and the unweighted kappa analysis was used to assess the bilateral grade agreement. Probabilities of less than 0.05 were considered significant. Data were analyzed using SPSS Statistics (version 25.0, IBM, USA).

Results

A low agreement was found between all the stages depicting the independent nature of trismus, clinical features, and histopathological components (K = 0.312, 0.167, 0.152) in OSMF. Following analysis, a three‐component classification scheme (TFM classification) was developed that describes the severity of each independently, grouping them using a novel three‐tier staging scheme as a guide to the treatment plan.

Conclusion

The proposed classification and staging could be useful for effective communication, categorization, and for recording data and prognosis, and for guiding treatment plans. Furthermore, the classification considers OSMF malignant transformation in detail.
Structural insights into the binding and catalytic mechanisms of the Listeria monocytogenes bacteriophage glycosyl hydrolase PlyP40
Authors: Romero Patricia , Bartual Sergio G. , Schmelcher Mathias , Glück Chaim , Hermoso Juan A. , Loessner Martin J.
Published: February 2018

Endolysins are bacteriophage‐encoded peptidoglycan hydrolases that specifically degrade the bacterial cell wall at the end of the phage lytic cycle. They feature a distinct modular architecture, consisting of enzymatically active domains (EADs) and cell wall‐binding domains (CBDs). Structural analysis of the complete enzymes or individual domains is required for better understanding the mechanisms of peptidoglycan degradation and provides guidelines for the rational design of chimeric enzymes. We here report the crystal structure of the EAD of PlyP40, a member of the GH‐25 family of glycosyl hydrolases, and the first muramidase reported for Listeria phages. Site‐directed mutagenesis confirmed key amino acids (Glu98 and Trp10) involved in catalysis and substrate stabilization. In addition, we found that PlyP40 contains two heterogeneous CBD modules with homology to SH3 and LysM domains. Truncation analysis revealed that both domains are required for full activity but contribute to cell wall recognition and lysis differently. Replacement of CBDP40 with a corresponding domain from a different Listeria phage endolysin yielded an enzyme with a significant shift in pH optimum. Finally, domain swapping between PlyP40 and the streptococcal endolysin Cpl‐1 produced an intergeneric chimera with activity against Listeria cells, indicating that structural similarity of individual domains determines enzyme function.
Abdominal aortic calcification score predicts the occurrence of coronary artery disease in middle‐aged peritoneal dialysis patients
Authors: Chen Hung‐Chih , Chou Che‐Yi , Lin Hsuan‐Jen , Huang Chiu‐Ching , Chang Chiz‐Tzung
Published: February 2018

Aim

Abdominal aortic calcification (AAC) score in dialysis patients was associated with coronary artery disease (CAD) in cross‐sectional study, but the use of AAC score in the CAD prediction was not clear. We aimed to use AAC score in the estimation of CAD occurrence in middle‐aged peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients.

Methods

Middle‐aged (45–65 years old) PD patients were recruited and followed up until CAD occurrence, patient mortality, or PD failure. We quantified AAC score by lateral lumbar radiography, and used receiver operation curve (ROC) analysis to find the cut‐off value for CAD prediction.

Results

There were 187 patients recruited for study with a mean follow‐up of 1027 ± 427 days. AAC score in patients with CAD during follow‐up period (9.7 ± 7.6, n = 41) was higher than in patients without CAD occurrence (5.5 ± 6.1, n = 146) (P < 0.001). Multivariate hazard ratio of AAC score for CAD was 1.07 (P = 0.044). ROC showed that AAC score of 5.5 had a sensitivity of 0.667 and a specificity of 0.581 in the prediction of CAD occurrence. Patients with AAC score above 5.5 had significantly higher cumulative incidence of CAD than patients with AAC score below 5.5 (Log‐rank test, P = 0.003). Age (P = 0.002), diabetes (P = 0.002), hypertension (P = 0.032), longer dialysis vintage (P < 0.001) and lower serum potassium (P = 0.012) were parameters significantly associated with higher AAC score.

Conclusion

AAC score can predict CAD occurrence in PD patients. Age, diabetes, hypertension, dialysis vintage and serum potassium level are factors associated with higher AAC score.
Culturally‐grounded mother–daughter communication‐focused intervention for Thai female adolescents
Authors: Powwattana Arpaporn , Thammaraksa Pimrat , Manora Sroy
Published: February 2018

Teenage pregnancy‐prevention interventions have fallen short in significantly decreasing risk of pregnancy for Thai populations. The “breaking the voice” (“rak luk khun tong pood”) culture‐appropriate teenage pregnancy‐prevention program was developed using community‐based research. Qualitative analyses of focus group data identified salient factors related to sexual communication and behavior. The integration of focus group results with theoretical constructs guided the development of an intervention to reduce risky sexual behavior by increasing communication between mothers and their adolescent daughters. A total of 157 mother–daughter dyads from congested areas in Bangkok participated in pilot testing of the intervention by the use of a survey. The findings indicated a significant increase in the frequency of and number of sexual risk communication (P < .05). There was a significant increase in perceived power in relationship control, ability to prevent sexual risk, assertiveness, and ability to decrease sexual risk among daughters (P < .05). “Breaking the voice” represents a female‐focused and culturally‐relevant intervention to combat teenage pregnancy.
Constraining uncertainty in the timescale of angiosperm evolution and the veracity of a Cretaceous Terrestrial Revolution
Authors: Barba‐Montoya Jose , dos Reis Mario , Schneider Harald , Donoghue Philip C. J. , Yang Ziheng
Published: February 2018

Through the lens of the fossil record, angiosperm diversification precipitated a Cretaceous Terrestrial Revolution (KTR) in which pollinators, herbivores and predators underwent explosive co‐diversification. Molecular dating studies imply that early angiosperm evolution is not documented in the fossil record. This mismatch remains controversial.

We used a Bayesian molecular dating method to analyse a dataset of 83 genes from 644 taxa and 52 fossil calibrations to explore the effect of different interpretations of the fossil record, molecular clock models, data partitioning, among other factors, on angiosperm divergence time estimation.

Controlling for different sources of uncertainty indicates that the timescale of angiosperm diversification is much less certain than previous molecular dating studies have suggested. Discord between molecular clock and purely fossil‐based interpretations of angiosperm diversification may be a consequence of false precision on both sides.

We reject a post‐Jurassic origin of angiosperms, supporting the notion of a cryptic early history of angiosperms, but this history may be as much as 121 Myr, or as little as 23 Myr. These conclusions remain compatible with palaeobotanical evidence and a more generalKTRin which major groups of angiosperms diverged later within the Cretaceous, alongside the diversification of pollinators, herbivores and their predators.
The last taboo: The experience of violence in first‐episode psychosis caregiving relationships
Authors: Onwumere Juliana , Parkyn Grace , Learmonth Stephanie , Kuipers Elizabeth
Published: February 2018

Objectives

Informal caregiving relationships play an important role in facilitating recovery outcomes in psychosis. The relationship can serve as a source of positive experiences that co‐exist alongside common challenges typically associated with mental health problems. People with psychosis, when compared to the general population, are more likely to perpetrate acts of violence, a relationship that is particularly evident during the first psychosis episode. Although victims of service user violence are typically people already known to them, such as informal carers, there remains a lack of understanding about their caring experiences and needs. This study sought to address gaps in the literature by exploring the subjective accounts of informal carers supporting a relative experiencing their first episode of psychosis who has also behaved violently towards them.

Design

A cross‐sectional design was employed.

Methods

Individual semi‐structured interviews, which were audio recorded and later transcribed for analyses, were undertaken with a convenience sample of eight carers drawn from a specialist early psychosis service. Interview questions focused on their experiences of patient violence, the subjective impact, and coping strategies. An interpretative phenomenological approach was used to analyse the data.

Results

Participants were mostly living with their relative with psychosis and were typically female, parents, and from a black and minority ethnic background. Data analyses identified seven key themes from participant interviews including the lack of predictability over when the violence occurred, being scared and fearful, keeping quiet about what happens at home and in the caregiving relationship, and staying safe.

Conclusions

Reports by informal carers about experiencing violence and victimization from their relatives with psychosis are an important issue in some caregiving relationships during the first episode. Developing a more informed understanding of the specific needs of these carers and the caregiving relationship is indicated. The implications for service providers are discussed.

Practitioner points

Carers were exposed to a broad range of patient violence, which included being kicked and having weapons used against them. The violence typically occurred within carers’ homes, when no other people were around.

Patient violence impacted negatively on carer emotional and physical functioning, which included leaving carers living in fear of their own safety and what might become of their relative.

The results highlight the importance of routinely asking first‐episode carers about their experience of patient violence.

The development of interventions (e.g., identification of early triggers, de‐escalation) that are able to take account of the ongoing nature and complexity of the caregiving relationship but are purposefully aimed at supporting carers to remain safe in their relationship should be explored for their impact.
Managing Service Systems with Unknown Quality and Customer Anecdotal Reasoning
Authors: Ren Hang , Huang Tingliang , Arifoglu Kenan
Published: February 2018

We consider service systems where customers do not know the distribution of uncertain service quality and cannot estimate it fully rationally. Instead, they form their beliefs by taking the average of several anecdotes, the size of which measures their level of bounded rationality. We characterize the customers’ joining behavior and the service provider's pricing, quality control, and information disclosure decisions. Bounded rationality induces customers to form different estimates of the service quality and leads the service provider to use pricing as a market segmentation tool, which is radically different from the full rationality setting. As customers gather more anecdotes, the service provider may first decrease and then increase price, and the revenue is U‐shaped. Interestingly, a larger sample size may harm consumer surplus, although it always benefits social welfare. When the service provider also has control over quality, we find that it may reduce both quality and price as customers gather more anecdotes. In addition, a high‐quality service provider may not disclose quality information if the sample size is small, while a low‐quality service provider may disclose if the sample size is large. Furthermore, as the expected waiting cost increases, information non‐disclosure is more attractive, thereby highlighting the importance of incorporating customer‐bounded rationality in congested settings.
Short‐term tolerance of equine spermatozoa to various abiotic factors
Authors: Pérez‐Marín CC , Requena FD , Arando A , Requena L , Requena F , Agüera EI
Published: February 2018

Contents

The aim of this study was to determine the effects of various abiotic factors, such as light, physical stress (pipetting) and thermal shock, on the quality of fresh and cooled equine sperm. In experiment I, four sperm aliquots were subjected to different light exposures: (i) protected control samples (CTRL), (ii) exposed to UV light at 10 cm (UV10), (iii) exposed to UV light at 20 cm (UV20) and (iv) exposed to laboratory lighting (LAB). In experiment II, four semen aliquots were subjected to repeated pipetting for 0, 10, 20 and 30 times (CTRL, P10, P20 and P30, respectively). In experiment III, four semen aliquots at 15°C were subjected to thermal oscillations: (i) cooled control sperm at 15°C (CTRL), (ii) oscillations of 1.9°C/min to a temperature of 30°C (T30), (iii) oscillations of 1.4°C/min, with the temperature rapidly falling until reaching 1.3°C (T0R) and (iv) oscillations of 1.1°C/min, with the temperature slowly falling until reaching 4.2°C (T0S). The results revealed that after 30 min, UV10 and UV20 sperm samples showed significantly (p < .05) lower total and progressive motility values, sperm kinematic parameters and mitochondrial potential. After 45 min of exposure, differences were highly significant (p < .001). No significant differences (p > .05) were found for pipetting or thermal oscillations. The results suggest that, even if equine sperm samples are not handled in the laboratory under optimal conditions, fresh and cooled equine spermatozoa are able to resist the impact of various abiotic stimuli without any reduction in their quality. This study analyses the effect on normospermic samples, but future research could look at the tolerance that asthenozoospermic equine samples have to these abiotic influences.
Specific fetometric formulas ofICCandBPfor calculating the parturition date in the miniature breeds of canine
Authors: Socha P , Janowski T
Published: February 2018

Contents

The aim of this study was to derive the growth curves of the inner chorionic cavity and the biparietal distance in miniature dog breeds by ultrasonographic fetometry and present new specific formulas for prediction of parturition date. In this study, foetal biometry parameters were obtained using serial ultrasonographic examinations in 24 pregnant bitches of six different miniature breeds (≤5 kg). The mating time was unknown. Overall, 25 inner chorionic cavity diameter (ICC) and 22 biparietal diameter (BP) measurements were taken. The relationship betweenICCorBPgrowth and days to parturition was analysed by linear regression. The results showed a significant relationship between days before delivery andICCorBP. The equations derived from the growth curves can be used in practical prediction of parturition date in miniature dog breeds.
On the Effects of Suggested Prices in Gasoline Markets
Authors: Faber Riemer P. , Janssen Maarten C. W.
Published: February 2018

There is a widespread suspicion that suggested prices act as a focal point for individual firms when setting their prices. Oil companies announce suggested prices for gasoline stations in the Dutch retail market. We show that, compared to the gasoline spot market price, suggested prices contain additional information that explains retail price changes. We conclude that suggested prices have a horizontal coordinating effect in the sense that retail prices react to information that suggested prices contain and that is unrelated to firms’ costs (i.e., the information that firms use under normal competitive conditions).
Contextual Accounts of Student Absences
Authors: Kalab Kathleen A.
Published: February 2018

Analysis of college student accounts given for classroom absences shows that some students provide justifications, but most rely on excuses. Females produced more accounts and were more likely to cite illness as an excuse, while males were more likely to refer to other pressing classwork requirements. A correlation existed between absences explained and grade, while preparation for another class was the only explanation found to be significantly related to course grade.
A Multiple Perspective Approach to Using Micro Theory
Authors: Gramling Robert
Published: February 2018

This paper examines attempts to synthesize three micro‐level sociological theories, namely symbolic interaction, exchange theory, and the construction of social reality. The author argues that although these perspectives are not based on totally incompatable assumptions, previous attempts to synthesize have not been useful in directing the course of research. An alternative to theoretical synthesis, using multiple perspectives, is suggested, and examples of multiple paradigm use are presented.
Risks of red blood cell alloimmunization in transfusion‐dependent β‐thalassemia in Oman: a 25‐year experience of a university tertiary care reference center and a literature review
Authors: Al‐Riyami Arwa Z. , Al‐Muqbali Ayman , Al‐Sudiri Saif , Murthi Panchatcharam Sathiya , Zacharia Mathew , Al‐Mahrooqi Sabah , Al‐Hosni Saif , Al‐Marhoobi Ali , Daar Shahina
Published: February 2018

BACKGROUND

β‐Thalassemia is a common hemoglobinopathy in the Arabian Peninsula. Red blood cell (RBC) transfusion is a cornerstone for its management, but can create significant challenges including RBC alloimmunization. Herein, we examine alloimmunization risk factors in Omani patients with transfusion‐dependent β‐thalassemia. Existing literature is summarized.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

A retrospective review of all patients attending our center over 25 years was performed. Clinical and transfusion records were examined. Chi‐square test was used to assess the association between the categorical variables. Nonparametric Mann‐Whitney test was used to assess the association between transfusion and risk of alloimmunization.

RESULTS

A total of 268 patients were identified (168 adults and 100 pediatrics), of whom 226 are alive (84.3%). Males accounted for 53.4%. The cohort had a median age of 22 years (range, 2‐43 years). The most common blood group was O+ (39%). The prevalence of alloimmunization was 9.3% with anti‐E (24%) and anti‐K (24%) being the commonest antibodies identified. There was a significant association between age and alloimmunization, with 68% of alloimmunized patients in the age group of 19 to 30 years (p < 0.01). Among adults, there was a significant association between alloimmunization and number of units transfused (p = 0.001). There was no association between alloimmunization and sex or history of splenectomy.

CONCLUSION

Our study shows an association between alloimmunization and the age of the patients and number of units transfused. Transfusion support of this group of patients necessitates the availability of needed expertise and blood bank facilities.
The differential expression of the blood group P1‐A4GALT and P2‐A4GALT alleles is stimulated by the transcription factor early growth response 1
Authors: Yeh Chih‐Chun , Chang Ching‐Jin , Twu Yuh‐Ching , Hung Shu‐Ting , Tsai Yi‐Jui , Liao Jia‐Ching , Huang Ji‐Ting , Kao Yu‐Hsin , Lin Sheng‐Wei , Yu Lung‐Chih
Published: February 2018

BACKGROUND

The P1/P2 phenotypic polymorphism is one of the earliest blood groups discovered in humans. These blood groups have been connected to different levels of expression of the A4GALT gene in P1 and P2 red blood cells; however, the detailed molecular genetic mechanism that leads to these two phenotypes has not been established.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

After our previous identification of an association between the single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) rs2143918 and rs5751348 in A4GALT gene and the P1/P2 phenotype, we conduct a survey of transcription factors that might connect these SNPs with the differential expression of the P1‐A4GALT and P2‐A4GALT alleles. An in silico analysis of potential transcription factor binding motifs within the polymorphic SNPs rs2143918 and rs5751348 genomic regions was performed, and this was followed by reporter assays examining the candidate transcription factors, gene expression profiling, electrophoretic mobility shift assays, and P1‐A4GALT and P2‐A4GALT allelic expression analysis.

RESULTS

The results revealed that the differential binding of transcription factor early growth response 1 to the SNP rs5751348 genomic region with the different genotypes in the A4GALT gene leads to differential activation of P1‐A4GALT and P2‐A4GALT expression.

CONCLUSION

The present investigation, together with our previous study (Lai et al., Transfusion 2014;54:3222‐31), have elucidated the molecular genetic details associated with the P1/P2 blood groups.
Evaluation of pet owner preferences for operative sterilization techniques in female dogs within the veterinary community
Authors: Hsueh Christine , Giuffrida Michelle , Mayhew Philipp D. , Case J. Brad , Singh Ameet , Monnet Eric , Holt David E. , Cray Megan , Curcillo Chiara , Runge Jeffrey J.
Published: February 2018

Objective

To describe pet owner preferences within the veterinary community when choosing operative techniques for canine spay.

Study Design

Prospective survey.

Sample Population

1234 respondents from 5 veterinary university teaching hospitals in North America.

Methods

An electronic survey was distributed to faculty, students, and staff that currently are or previously were dog owners. Responses were analyzed to determine what spay technique respondents would choose for their own dogs. Surgical options offered included open celiotomy, 2‐port (TP) laparoscopy, single‐port (SP) laparoscopy, and natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery (NOTES).

Results

TP laparoscopic ovariectomy (OVE) was the most popular choice, followed by SP laparoscopic OVE; NOTES was the least popular technique when all surgical options were available. If only minimally invasive surgeries were offered, 0.3% of respondents would refuse surgery. Nearly half (48%) of respondents were willing to spend between $100 and $200 more for a minimally invasive OVE than for an open celiotomy.

Conclusion

Minimally invasive OVE is an acceptable operative approach to those in the veterinary community. Additional study is required to correlate these findings with the general veterinary client population.
Prosthetic mesh repair of abdominal wall hernias in horses
Authors: Tóth Ferenc , Schumacher Jim
Published: February 2018

Repair of hernias of the abdominal wall of horses is often augmented by inserting a prosthetic mesh. In this review, we describe the various characteristics of prosthetic meshes used for hernia repair and present 2 systems that are used by surgeons in the human medical field to classify techniques of prosthetic mesh herniorrhaphy. Both of these classification systems distinguish between onlay, inlay, sublay, and underlay placements of mesh, based on the location within the abdominal wall in which the prosthetic mesh is inserted. We separate the published techniques of prosthetic mesh herniorrhaphy of horses using this classification system, ascribing names to the techniques of herniorrhaphy where none existed, and report the success rates and complications associated with each technique. By introducing a classification system widely used in the human medical field and illustrating each technique in a figure, we hope to clarify inconsistent nomenclature associated with prosthetic mesh herniorrhaphy performed by veterinary surgeons.
Cartografía de una memoria: Space Invaders de Nona Fernández o el pasado narrado en clave de juego
Authors: Urzúa Macarena
Published: February 2018

En la novela de Fernández Space Invaders (2013) se observa, a través de la metáfora extraída de un juego de Atari, la perspectiva única que permite dibujar otra cartografía de la ciudad: la de la memoria postdictatorial. La constante alusión al videojuego de Arcade Space Invaders, popularizado en los años ochenta, opera en la novela como una alternativa para narrar el pasado y escribir el relato de quienes crecieron durante la dictadura. El presente trabajo intenta dar cuenta del lugar que ocupa el juego y de su rol en el modo de narrar el pasado reciente. Space Invaders opera así como una alegoría de una parte de la infancia, a la que se vuelve, a partir de la ficción.
Ciudades traducidas: Nueva York en Victoria Ocampo
Authors: Molloy Sylvia
Published: February 2018

Ensayo inscrito en una pesquisa más amplia sobre cómo se construye la ciudad de Nueva York en el imaginario latinoamericano. De manera particular, se reflexiona sobre la manera en que Victoria Ocampo traduce  en el sentido más amplio del término— Nueva York para sí y para sus lectores cómplices, en sus autobiografías, cartas y testimonios. Así, se consignan intercambios notables con intelectuales contemporáneos: Waldo Frank y Roger Caillois, entre los considerados.
“La Frida no envejeció, Yo soy la Frida envejecida”. La última performance de Pedro Lemebel
Authors: Blanco Fernando A.
Published: February 2018

A partir de su último encuentro con Pedro Lemebel, el articulista lee la proxémica de dicha cita como un epígrafe performático que permite ordenar de manera comprensiva y especulativa la producción transmedial de Lemebel (crónica, novela y performance). Se concluye que, en sus distintas acciones, los textos de Lemebel funcionan como herramientas de un operador de la historia cultural chilena a través de la manipulación de los signos del cuerpo homosexual.
Pánico a la discoteca: Teatro, transición y underground (Chile, época 1990)
Authors: Opazo Cristián
Published: February 2018

En este ensayo analizo un performance de resistencia contracultural celebrado en Santiago de Chile, en plena transición democrática: Spandex, serie de ocho fiestas underground organizadas, en el invierno de 1991, por los teatristas Daniel Palma y Andrés Pérez, como estrategia de sobrevivencia para su propia compañía, el Gran Circo Teatro. A partir de la revisión de archivos de prensa, expongo los mecanismos de censura —con énfasis en el género y las sexualidades— que se ciernen sobre Spandex, y el programa del gobierno transicional al que estos mecanismos responden.
Desmontando imágenes de diferencia. Representaciones de lo indígena en las conmemoraciones nacionales latinoamericanas
Authors: Vargas Álvarez Sebastián
Published: February 2018

Partiendo del método y enfoque del «montaje» propuesto por Walter Benjamin, este artículo explora algunas representaciones visuales de lo indígena en las conmemoraciones patrióticas latinoamericanas durante los últimos dos siglos. Para ello, se analizan imágenes de diferentes formatos y géneros (pintura histórica, grabado, fotografía, escultura) correspondientes a países como México, Colombia, Ecuador, Argentina y Uruguay, las cuales son consideradas como fragmentos de una historia, discontinua y no lineal, de los procesos de construcción y representación de la nación, su identidad y sus alteridades.
High frequency compressional wave speed and attenuation measurements in water-saturated granular media with unimodal and bimodal grain size distributions
Authors: Yang Haesang , Seong Woojae
Published: February 2018

Compressional wave speed and attenuation were measured for water-saturated granular media employing five kinds of glass beads having unimodal and bimodal grain size distributions. Glass beads with grain sizes ranging from 250 to 850 μm were used for the acoustic measurements at a frequency range from 350 kHz to 1.1 MHz, which includes the transition range where scattering and non-scattering losses co-exist. The compressional wave speed and attenuation data are presented as a function of frequency and grain size distribution. The compressional wave speed and attenuation data show a variety of frequency dependencies for varying grain size distribution. The observed acoustic properties are investigated for the volume ratio of larger and smaller sized grains in the mixed bimodal media. Also, the measured results are compared with the empirical multiple scattering formula as a function of Rayleigh parameter  kd (product of wavenumber in the water k and mean grain diameter of the glass beads d) using weighted mean grain size. The measured results are also discussed, focusing on the geophysical difference between unimodal and bimodal mixed grains.