bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Examining the role of external factors in influencing green behaviour among young Indian consumers
Authors: Kumar Ramesh , Saha Raiswa , P.C. Sekar , Dahiya Richa
Published: November 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to measure the influence of peers, and the Government and non-governmental organization (NGO) initiatives on an individual’s attitudinal drivers such as environmental knowledge and environmental concern, which are the reasons for their green purchasing intentions. This concept was applied among the Indian young consumers.

Design/methodology/approach

For the research, a structured online questionnaire was used to obtain responses from 342 Indians from various cities. The participants were 20-25 years of age. SPSS software package was used to refine the data while SmartPLS was used to test the validity of the hypotheses.

Findings

The findings revealed that the Government and NGO initiatives along with peer influence do have a significant effect on a consumer’s environmental knowledge and environmental concerns. Further, this study found a significant positive effect of environmental knowledge and environmental concern on perceived value. In turn, the perceived value had a direct positive impact on green attitude leading to green purchase intention.

Practical implications

This paper provides critical insights for marketers, as well as for governmental agencies and NGOs promoting the conservation of the environment through environmental-friendly practices. These parties aim to generate greater awareness among consumers and impart knowledge about the benefits of green practices.

Originality/value

The studies measuring the impact of external factors on green consumption are scarce. Even the few studies available have measured the direct impact of external factors on green purchase intention. Governmental and NGO initiatives along with peer influence are the stimuli impacting operational factors such as environmental knowledge, environmental concern, perceived value, and green attitude, which, in turn, lead to the response of green purchase intention. This study provides new insights to this relationship by using a stimulus – organism – response framework.
The returns to education in rural China: Some new estimates
Authors: Liu Chengfang , Li Ye , Li Shaoping , Luo Renfu , Zhang Linxiu , Rozelle Scott , Hagist Spencer , Hou Jack
Published: November 2019

We estimate the rates of return to education in rural China using primary survey data collected in 2016. Estimated average returns to education are 3.1 per cent. However, careful statistical analysis is required when estimating the returns to education. The paper demonstrates that when employment interruptions are accounted for, the measured returns to education rise. Our results also confirm that mismeasurement of the wage rate by using an hourly wage rate (versus daily or monthly earnings) raises the estimation of rates of return to education. Finally, our results suggest that the return to education is nonlinear in education levels but only when it reaches the tertiary level.
Suppletion: Questions for History and Theory
Authors: Plank Frans , Vincent Nigel
Published: November 2019

Introducing a collection of papers on suppletion looked at from a diachronic angle, this paper surveys questions that have been asked (or should be) and answers that have been considered, in this issue and elsewhere, about how, why, where, and when suppletion originates, with particular lexical items and morphological categories; what happens to suppletion once and as long as it is there; how, why, where, and when suppletion disappears again; and how suppletion fits with particular approaches to morphology and general theories of language.
Sharing information electronically with other hospitals is associated with increased sharing of patients
Authors: Everson Jordan , Adler‐Milstein Julia
Published: November 2019

Objective

One potential benefit of greater electronic health information exchange is a reduction in the effort required for patients to switch between providers. We therefore assessed whether hospital participation in health information organizations (HIOs) led to increased patient sharing.

Data Sources

Secondary data from 2010 to 2016.

Study Design

Using hospital‐pair and year fixed effects regression models, we assessed change in patient sharing volume following HIO participation by hospitals and compared the effect by the level of market competition and by hospital size.

Data Extraction Methods

We used national data on hospital participation in HIOs from the American Hospital Association Information Technology Supplement and data on the volume of Medicare patients shared between pairs of hospitals from 2010 to 2016.

Principal Findings

The volume of patients shared between hospitals increased by 2.6 percent when both hospitals participated in a health information organization (P = .008, 95% CI: 0.7%‐4.5%). This increase was greater in competitive markets (3.1 percent increase, P = .03 95% CI: 0.3%‐5.9%) and between large hospitals (4.3 percent increase, P = .007 95% CI: 1.2%‐7.3%). Participation by only one hospital in a pair had no effect on patient sharing.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that an important policy goal motivating the investment in health information exchange has been at least partially achieved. However, our results also support hospital concerns about the competitive implications of engaging in health information exchange. HIO participation appears to facilitate patient movement between hospitals, likely by lowering switching costs and resulting in greater competition.
Factors Influencing Zein–Whole Sorghum Flour Dough Formation and Bread Quality
Authors: Akin Pervin Ari , Bean Scott R. , Smith Brennan M. , Tilley Michael
Published: November 2019

Zein is known to able to form viscoelastic dough with wheat‐like properties under certain conditions. Several studies have been conducted to explain the mechanism behind this ability and to improve the functionality and end‐use quality of zein‐based dough systems. However, most of this research has been conducted using zein in combination with isolated starches or high‐starch flours. To investigate the production of additional zein–whole sorghum flour breads, experiments were conducted to determine factors impacting zein–whole sorghum flour dough and bread quality. Optimizing water levels, using defatted zein and/or sorghum flour, and increasing zein content in dough formulas were investigated as initial formulation steps. Of these factors, increasing zein content from 20% to 30% (flour weight basis) had the greatest impact, resulting in stronger zein‐based dough and improved bread quality. Additives and zein treatments shown to impact zein functionality were then investigated for their effect of zein–whole sorghum flour breads. Mixing zein and whole sorghum flour with 0.5% hydrogen peroxide, 5% ethanol, or 3% hydroxypropyl methylcellulose resulted in improved dough strength and bread quality. Breads made from whole white sorghum flour had improved quality compared to zein‐based breads made with black or high‐tannin whole sorghum flour.

Practical Application

Zein is known to be able to form wheat‐like dough when mixed under the right conditions. Most of the research on zein‐based dough and food products has used high‐starch flours. This project investigated optimizing the production of zein–whole sorghum flour dough and bread as an alternative. Increasing the zein content in the formula and using additives including ethanol and HPMC produced breads from zein–whole sorghum flour that were like those made with zein and pure starch.
Aqueous Preparation of Maillard Reaction Intermediate from Glutathione and Xylose and its Volatile Formation During Thermal Treatment
Authors: Sun Fuli , Cui Heping , Zhan Huan , Xu Man , Hayat Khizar , Tahir Muhammad Usman , Hussain Shahzad , Zhang Xiaoming , Ho Chi‐Tang
Published: November 2019

Maillard reaction intermediate (MGX) generated from glutathione and xylose in aqueous medium was prepared via the Maillard reaction performed under a two‐stage temperature increase process. The purified MGX was identified by Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, and nuclear magnetic resonance as N‐(1‐deoxy‐d‐xylulos‐1‐yl)‐glutathione (Amadori compound, C15H25O10N3S) with five main isomers. The method of Maillard reaction performed under a two‐stage temperature increase process was further verified by high‐performance liquid chromatography. The optimal reaction time and temperature for the preparation of MGX was determined as 60 min at 90 °C. The yield of MGX was increased from 8.60% to 55.52% through thermal reaction coupled with vacuum dehydration. In addition, rapid and more Maillard‐type volatile compounds were formed in MGX during thermal treatment than that in Maillard reaction products or glutathione‐xylose mixture. Beside, MGX possessed more pleasing meat‐like volatile profile compared with the Amadori compound of glutamic acid‐xylose (AAX), cysteine‐xylose (ACX), and glycine‐xylose (AGX). Therefore, it suggested that the MGX had the potential to achieve a better flavor formation during thermal treatment.

Practical Application

Maillard reaction intermediates, such as Amadori or Heyns rearrangement products (ARP or HRP), are important flavor precursors, which possess stable physicochemical properties, but tend to degrade into flavor compounds at high temperatures. Maillard reaction intermediate from glutathione and xylose acts as primary flavor enhancers to complete Maillard reaction to produce flavors in the subsequent thermal processing, which can significantly improve and stabilize the flavor quality of the meaty food, and deserves a very broad application prospects. The new developed method will be a significant theoretical basis on research preparation and properties of Maillard reaction intermediates in complex food systems.
Use of Predictive Weather Uncertainties in an Irrigation Scheduling Tool Part II: An Application of Metrics and Adjoints
Authors: Jones Andrew S. , Andales Allan A. , Chávez José L. , McGovern Cullen , Smith Garvey E.B. , David Olaf , Fletcher Steven J.
Published: November 2019

We apply predictive weather metrics and land model sensitivities to improve the Colorado State University Water Irrigation Scheduler for Efficient Application (WISE). WISE is an irrigation decision aid that integrates environmental and user information for optimizing water use. Rainfall forecasts and verification performance metrics are used to estimate predictive rainfall probabilities that are used as input data within the irrigation decision aid. These input data errors are also used within a land model sensitivity study to diagnose important prognostic water movement behaviors for irrigation tool development purposes simultaneously performing the analysis in space and time. Thus, important questions such as “how long can a crop water application be delayed while maintaining crop yield production?” are addressed by evaluating crop growth stage interactions as a function of soil depth (i.e., space), rainfall events (i.e., time), and their probabilistic uncertainties. Editor’s note: This paper is part of the featured series on Optimizing Ogallala Aquifer Water Use to Sustain Food Systems. See the February 2019 issue for the introduction and background to the series.
Use of Predictive Weather Uncertainties in an Irrigation Scheduling Tool Part I: A Review of Metrics and Adjoint Methods
Authors: Jones Andrew S. , Andales Allan A. , Chávez José L. , McGovern Cullen , Smith Garvey E.B. , David Olaf , Fletcher Steven J.
Published: November 2019

Irrigation management consists of many components. In this work we review and recommend rainfall forecast performance metrics and adjoint methodologies for the use of predictive weather data within the Colorado State University Water Irrigation Scheduler for Efficient Application (WISE). WISE estimates crop water uses to optimize irrigation scheduling. WISE and its components, input requirements, and related software design issues are discussed. The use of predictive weather allows WISE to consider economic opportunity‐costs of decisions to defer water application if rainfall is forecast. These capabilities require an assessment of the system uncertainties and use of weather prediction performance probabilities. Rainfall forecasts and verification performance metrics are reviewed. In addition, model data assimilation methods and adjoint sensitivity concepts are introduced. These assimilation methods make use of observational uncertainties and can link performance metrics to space and time considerations. We conclude with implementation guidance, summaries of available data sources, and recommend a novel adjoint method to address the complex physical linkages and model sensitivities between space and time within the irrigation scheduling physics as a function of soil depth. Such tool improvements can then be used to improve water management decision performance to better conserve and utilize limited water resources for productive use. Editor’s note: This paper is part of the featured series on Optimizing Ogallala Aquifer Water Use to Sustain Food Systems. See the February 2019 issue for the introduction and background to the series.
Widespread prevalence but contrasting patterns of intragenomic rRNA polymorphisms in nematodes: Implications for phylogeny, species delimitation and life history inference
Authors: Qing Xue , Bik Holly , Yergaliyev Timur M. , Gu Jianfeng , Fonderie Pamela , Brown‐Miyara Sigal , Szitenberg Amir , Bert Wim
Published: November 2019

Ribosomal RNA genes have long been a favoured locus in phylogenetic and metabarcoding studies. Within a genome, rRNA loci are organized as tandem repeated arrays and the copies are homogenized through the process of concerted evolution. However, some level of rRNA variation (intragenomic polymorphism) is known to persist and be maintained in the genomes of many species. In nematode worms, the extent of rRNA polymorphism (RP) across species and the evolutionary and life history factors that contribute to the maintenance of intragenomic RP is largely unknown. Here, we present an extensive analysis across 30 terrestrial nematode species representing a range of free‐living and parasitic taxa isolated worldwide. Our results indicate that RP is common and widespread, ribosome function appears to be maintained despite mutational changes, and intragenomic variants are stable in the genome and neutrally evolving. However, levels of variation were varied widely across rRNA locus and species, with some taxa observed to lack RP entirely. Higher levels of RP were significantly correlated with shorter generation time and high reproductive rates, and population‐level factors may play a role in the geographic and phylogenetic structuring of rRNA variants observed in genera such as Rotylenchulus and Pratylenchus. Although RP did not dramatically impact the clustering and recovery of taxa in mock metabarcoding analyses, the present study has significant implications for global biodiversity estimates of nematode species derived from environmental rRNA amplicon studies, as well as our understanding of the evolutionary and ecological factors shaping genetic diversity across the nematode Tree of Life.
Measuring ICD‐11 adjustment disorder: the development and initial validation of the International Adjustment Disorder Questionnaire
Authors: Shevlin M. , Hyland P. , Ben‐Ezra M. , Karatzias T. , Cloitre M. , Vallières F. , Bachem R. , Maercker A.
Published: November 2019

Background

Adjustment disorder (AjD) is one of the most frequently used diagnoses in psychiatry but a diagnostic definition for AjD was only introduced in release of the ICD‐11. This study sought to develop and validate a new measure operationalizing the ICD‐11’s narrative description of AjD, and to determine the current rate of people meeting the symptoms indicative of AjD in the general population of the Republic of Ireland.

Methods

The International Adjustment Disorder Questionnaire (IADQ) was constructed to measure the core diagnostic criteria of ICD‐11 AjD: stressor exposure, preoccupations with, and failure to adapt to, the stressor, timing of symptom onset, and functional impairment. A nationally representative sample (N = 1,020) of adults from Ireland completed the IADQ.

Results

Confirmatory factor analysis supported construct validity and the reliability estimates were excellent. The IADQ correlated strongly with depression, anxiety, and posttraumatic stress. The criteria were met by 7.0% of the sample, adjusted for other exclusionary disorders.

Discussion

The IADQ is a measure based on the ICD‐11’s description and produces reliable scores, however it should not be used for clinical assessment until validated with clinical interviews.
Efficacy of trastuzumab emtansine in Japanese patients with previously treated HER2‐positive locally advanced or metastatic gastric or gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinoma: A subgroup analysis of the GATSBY study
Authors: Shitara Kohei , Honma Yoshitaka , Omuro Yasushi , Yamaguchi Kensei , Chin Keisho , Muro Kei , Nakagawa Shintaro , Kawakami Satoe , Hironaka Shuichi , Nishina Tomohiro
Published: November 2019

Aim

The phase II/III GATSBY study (NCT01641939) showed that trastuzumab emtansine did not have an efficacy benefit over taxane in patients with previously treated, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)‐positive advanced or metastatic gastric or gastroesophageal junction cancer. We evaluated patients from Japanese centers within GATSBY.

Methods

In stage one, patients (randomized 2:2:1) received trastuzumab emtansine 3.6 mg/kg every 3 weeks, trastuzumab emtansine 2.4 mg/kg weekly, or physician's choice of taxane (docetaxel 75 mg/m² every 3 weeks or paclitaxel 80 mg/m² weekly). In stage two, patients (randomized 2:1) received trastuzumab emtansine 2.4 mg/kg weekly or taxane. Eligible patients had centrally assessed HER2‐positive disease and progression during or after first‐line therapy. Primary endpoint was overall survival. We present the 2.4 mg/kg weekly data.

Results

Eighty‐two patients were randomized (intention‐to‐treat: 48 to trastuzumab emtansine 2.4 mg/kg weekly, 23 to taxane; September 2012‐August 2014) at 19 sites. Median overall survival was 11.8 months (95% confidence interval [CI], 9.3‐16.3) with trastuzumab emtansine 2.4 mg/kg weekly and 10.0 months (95% CI, 7.1‐18.2) with taxane (unstratified hazard ratio = 0.94, 95% CI, 0.52‐1.72). Trastuzumab emtansine 2.4 mg/kg weekly, versus taxane, was associated with fewer grade ≥3 adverse events (AEs; 52.1% vs 68.2%) and serious AEs (14.6% vs 18.2%). There were no fatal AEs.

Conclusions

Efficacy in Japanese patients within GATSBY was consistent with the overall population; overall survival was not prolonged with trastuzumab emtansine 2.4 mg/kg weekly versus taxane. The safety profile of trastuzumab emtansine was similar to the overall population.
Under what conditions do U.S. and Taiwanese late adolescents feel victimized by their peers?
Authors: Huang Hsun‐Chih , Bellmore Amy
Published: November 2019

This study investigates whether cultural differences exist between the ways U.S. and Taiwanese college students perceive peer victimization using both an experimental vignette method and an open‐ended question format. A total of 1,125 college students (53% female) from the United States (n = 535) and Taiwan (n = 590) read and responded to vignettes which depicted peer interactions in the college context. The peer interactions varied along three factors expected to be associated with differentiating victimization from affiliative teasing: hostility, playfulness, and relationship closeness. Controlling for individual factors of sex, prior victimization, prior teasing, and emphasis on interpersonal harmony, students perceived more victimization when both hostility and a lack of playfulness were present. Culture interacted with the situational factors such that both hostility and lack of playfulness were stronger predictors of perceived victimization for Taiwanese than for U.S. college students. In open‐ended responses about sensitive topics, “Ability and academic performance” and “Self/thoughts/characters/habits” were more indicative of victimization for Taiwanese college students. “Health and disability” was more salient as indicative of victimization for U.S. college students. Findings from this study are among the first to evaluate signals of peer victimization with a cultural comparison; they can be used to inform victimization intervention programs or socioemotional curriculums in late adolescence to be culturally relevant.
Neoliberalising Education: New Geographies of Private Tuition, Class Privilege, and Minority Ethnic Advancement
Authors: Holloway Sarah L. , Kirby Philip
Published: November 2019

Geographic research on neoliberalism has explored the restructuring of educational landscapes wrought through marketisation of preschool, school and higher‐education provision and considered the responsibilisation of parents and children for educational outcomes. This study develops understanding of the contingent emergence of neoliberal educational reform, and its progressive and regressive impacts, through an examination of the burgeoning private tuition market in England and Wales. The paper outlines the contours of the previously hidden supplementary education industry, demonstrating that it reinforces regional and classed inequalities, while opening possibilities for ethnic minority advancement. Conceptually, the paper advances debate about socio‐spatial specificity in neoliberal change, showing that the intersection of policy, free markets and consumer behaviour reshapes the educational landscape in ways that extend beyond state intention and control. Through these processes, contingent market forms are produced that offer social mobility for some, but ensure the social reproduction of enduring regimes of power.
Smooth pursuit eye movement deficits as a biomarker for psychotic features in bipolar disorder—Findings from the PARDIP study
Authors: Brakemeier Svenja , Sprenger Andreas , Meyhöfer Inga , McDowell Jennifer E. , Rubin Leah H. , Hill S. Kristian , Keshavan Matcheri S. , Pearlson Godfrey D. , Tamminga Carol A. , Gershon Elliot S. , Keedy Sarah S. , Sweeney John A. , Clementz Brett A. , Lencer Rebekka
Published: November 2019

Objectives

Smooth pursuit eye movement deficits are an established psychosis biomarker across schizophrenia, schizoaffective and psychotic bipolar disorder (BPwP). Whether smooth pursuit deficits are also seen in bipolar disorder without psychosis (BPwoP) is unclear. Here we present data from the Psychosis and Affective Research Domains and Intermediate Phenotypes (PARDIP) study comparing bipolar patients with and without psychotic features.

Methods

Probands with BPwP (N = 49) and BPwoP (N = 36), and healthy controls (HC, N = 71) performed eye tracking tasks designed to evaluate specific sensorimotor components relevant for pursuit initiation and pursuit maintenance.

Results

While BPwoP did not differ from either BPwP or HC on initial eye acceleration, they performed significantly better than BPwP on early (P < .01) and predictive (P = .02) pursuit maintenance measures, both without differing from HC. BPwP were impaired compared to HC on initial eye acceleration, and on early and predictive pursuit maintenance (all P < .01). In contrast to the three pursuit measures, BPwP and BPwoP were both impaired on general neurocognitive assessments in relation to HC (both P < .001), without a significant difference between the two bipolar patient groups.

Conclusions

Our findings support the model that impairments of sensorimotor and cognitive processing as required for early and later predictive smooth pursuit maintenance are relatively specific to those bipolar patients with a history of psychosis. This suggests that the neural circuitry for developing feed‐forward predictive models for accurate pursuit maintenance is associated with the occurrence of psychotic features in bipolar patients. In contrast, generalized neuropsychological impairments did not differentiate the two bipolar patient groups.
Reducing Affective Responses to Surgical Images and Videos Through Stylization
Authors: Besançon Lonni , Semmo Amir , Biau David , Frachet Bruno , Pineau Virginie , Sariali El Hadi , Soubeyrand Marc , Taouachi Rabah , Isenberg Tobias , Dragicevic Pierre
Published: November 2019

We present the first empirical study on using colour manipulation and stylization to make surgery images/videos more palatable. While aversion to such material is natural, it limits many people's ability to satisfy their curiosity, educate themselves and make informed decisions. We selected a diverse set of image processing techniques to test them both on surgeons and lay people. While colour manipulation techniques and many artistic methods were found unusable by surgeons, edge‐preserving image smoothing yielded good results both for preserving information (as judged by surgeons) and reducing repulsiveness (as judged by lay people). We then conducted a second set of interview with surgeons to assess whether these methods could also be used on videos and derive good default parameters for information preservation. We provide extensive supplemental material at osf.io/4pfes/.
In vitro comparative analysis of two resonance frequency measurement devices: Osstell implant stability coefficient and Penguin resonance frequency analysis
Authors: Herrero‐Climent Mariano , Falcão Artur , López‐Jarana Paula , Díaz‐Castro Carmen M. , Ríos‐Carrasco Blanca , Ríos‐Santos José Vicente
Published: November 2019

Adequate implant stability is an essential requirement. The introduction of the Penguin resonance frequency analysis raises some questions regarding its reliability, reproducibility, and repeatability as well as how it compares to the older Osstell device.

Purpose

To assess the newer Penguin implant stability coefficient (ISQ) device (vs the Osstell device).

Materials and methods

A total of 120 implants were used, divided into four groups (A, B, C, and D) (according to design) and placed in fresh bovine bone. Consecutive measurements were made with both devices (Penguin/Osstell) with their respective transducers. Then, the ISQ values were measured with the Penguin device using the Osstell transducer, and vice‐versa.

Results

The mean insertion torque (N/cm) values for the implants were as follows: Group A = 24.7 ± 9.4; Group B = 25.6 ± 9.7; Group C = 28.7 ± 7.9; Group D = 19.1 ± 5.5. The mean ISQ values for the entire sample were as follows: Penguin 67.7 ± 6.1 and Osstell 68.5 ± 9.6. The ISQ value measured with the Penguin device using a SmartPeg transducer was 67.0 ± 8.0, and that for the Osstell device using a MultiPeg transducer was 68.3 ± 7.5. The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was calculated for the ISQ values obtained from both devices and was >0.90 for all transducers. When the ICC transducers were interchanged, the values were <0.77.

Conclusions

Both ISQ devices allow for reliable and repeatable measurement of implant stability; however, the use of each device‐specific transducer is recommended.
Pentamidine inhibits prostate cancer progression via selectively inducing mitochondrial DNA depletion and dysfunction
Authors: Liu Lin , Wang Fan , Tong Yu , Li Lin‐Feng , Liu Yanfeng , Gao Wei‐Qiang
Published: November 2019

Objectives

We investigated the anti‐cancer activity of pentamidine, an anti‐protozoal cationic aromatic diamidine drug, in prostate cancer cells and aimed to provide valuable insights for improving the efficacy of prostate cancer treatment.

Materials and methods

Prostate cancer cell lines and epithelial RWPE‐1 cells were used in the study. Cell viability, wound‐healing, transwell and apoptosis assays were examined to evaluate the influences of pentamidine in vitro. RNA‐seq and qPCR were performed to analyse changes in gene transcription levels upon pentamidine treatment. Mitochondrial changes were assessed by measuring mitochondrial DNA content, morphology, membrane potential, cellular glucose uptake, ATP production and ROS generation. Nude mouse xenograft models were used to test anti‐tumour effects of pentamidine in vivo.

Results

Pentamidine exerted profound inhibitory effects on proliferation, colony formation, migration and invasion of prostate cancer cells. In addition, the drug suppressed growth of xenograft tumours without exhibiting any obvious toxicity in nude mice. Mechanistically, pentamidine caused mitochondrial DNA content reduction and induced mitochondrial morphological changes, mitochondrial membrane potential dissipation, ATP level reduction, ROS production elevation and apoptosis in prostate cancer cells.

Conclusions

Pentamidine can efficiently suppress prostate cancer progression and may serve as a novel mitochondria‐targeted therapeutic agent for prostate cancer.
The increased risk of microvascular complications in South Asians with type 1 diabetes is influenced by migration
Authors: Chetan M.R. , Miksza J.K. , Lawrence I. , Anjana R.M. , Unnikrishnan R. , Amutha A. , Shanthi Rani C.S. , Jebarani S. , Mohan V. , Khunti K. , Narendran P.
Published: November 2019

Aim

We aimed to explore the association between South Asian ethnicity and complications of type 1 diabetes, and whether this is affected by migration.

Methods

In this retrospective cohort study, data on diabetes control and complications were obtained for South Asians in India (South AsiansIndia, n = 2592) and the UK (South AsiansUK, n = 221) and white Europeans in the UK (n = 1431). Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify associations between ethnicity and diabetic kidney disease, retinopathy and neuropathy adjusting for age, sex, BMI, disease duration, HbA1c, blood pressure (BP) and cholesterol.

Results

South AsiansIndia had significantly greater adjusted odds of diabetic kidney disease [odds ratio (OR) 5.0, 95% confidence intervals (CI) 3.6–7.1] and retinopathy (OR 1.8, 95% CI 1.2–2.5), but lower odds of neuropathy (OR 0.5, 95% CI 0.4–0.6) than white Europeans. South AsiansIndia had significantly greater adjusted odds of diabetic kidney disease (OR 3.0, 95% 1.8–5.3) than South AsiansUK, but there was no significant difference in the odds of other complications.

Conclusions

In this hypothesis‐generating study, we report that South Asian ethnicity is associated with greater risk of diabetic kidney disease and retinopathy, and lower risk of neuropathy than white European ethnicity. Part of the excess diabetic kidney disease risk is reduced in South AsiansUK. These associations cannot be accounted for by differences in vascular risk factors. Our findings in South Asians with type 1 diabetes mirror previous findings in type 2 diabetes and now need to be validated in a study of the effect of ethnicity on type 1 diabetes complications where healthcare is provided in the same setting.
Applying Performance Measures and Process Improvements in the Classroom: The Loch Dots Company Simulation
Authors: Miller Keith E. , Hill Craig , Miller Antoinette R.
Published: November 2019

The article describes a multi‐phase, in‐class simulation that employs problem‐based learning to teach operations and process‐improvement concepts as part of an undergraduate or graduate business course. The simulation is derived from a corporate Lean Six Sigma training activity and has been modified to introduce, demonstrate, and apply a wide range of business concepts relevant to operations and supply chain management, including the use of operational and financial performance measures in decision making. The activity is scalable for small‐ to medium‐size classes with multiple student groups and may be deployed as a stand‐alone, in‐class exercise spread over several class meetings or incorporated into a larger, semester‐long process‐improvement project for multiple student groups. The simulation emphasizes problem‐solving, teamwork, and intra‐firm cooperation in addition to 20–30 other business concepts, tools, and measures that may be incorporated.
Restoration goals: Why are fauna still overlooked in the process of recovering functioning ecosystems and what can be done about it?
Authors: Cross Sophie L. , Bateman Philip W. , Cross Adam T.
Published: November 2019

Despite the evidence that fauna play complex and critical roles in ecosystems (e.g. pollination and nutrient cycling) and the knowledge that they need to be considered in restoration, fauna often remain poorly represented in restoration goal setting, monitoring and assessments of restoration success. Fauna clearly are integral to the aspirations of achieving full ecosystem recovery. However, over‐reaching assumptions about the unassisted return of fauna to restored sites, low investment in fauna monitoring, and minimal consideration of the requirements for fauna monitoring in regulatory guidance and standards appear to have led to the historically vegetation‐centric approaches to rehabilitation and ecological restoration. We argue that ecological complexities render assumptions of unassisted fauna return inappropriate in many situations and may represent a missed opportunity to enhance ecological outcomes and improve restoration trajectories. We advocate for greater consideration of fauna as facilitators of ecological restoration and, particularly for well‐funded projects, for monitoring to place greater emphasis on examining the behaviour and resilience of restored fauna communities. There is a clear need for both industry and regulators to recognise that fauna can be crucial facilitators of restoration and appreciate that the return and monitoring of functional faunal communities can be costly, challenging and may require detailed study across a wide range of taxonomic groups. Failure to advance from business as usual models may risk leaving a legacy of ostensibly functional, but biodiversity‐depauperate, restored ecosystems.
Long‐term mortality, disability and stroke recurrence in patients with basilar artery occlusion
Authors: Hawkes M. A. , Blaginykh E. , Ruff M. W. , Burrus T. , Wijdicks E. F. M. , Rabinstein A. A.
Published: November 2019

Background and purpose

The long‐term outcomes and stroke recurrence after basilar artery occlusion (BAO) are largely unknown. We aimed to assess these variables in a comparatively large series of consecutive patients.

Methods

Adults with acute BAO were retrospectively identified from 1976 to 2011. Post‐discharge records were reviewed to assess for stroke recurrences, mortality and disability. Exploratory analysis of survival was carried out using Kaplan–Meier and log‐rank tests. Factors associated with survival time were determined using Cox models.

Results

A total of 86 patients (34% female, median age 72 [interquartile range (IQR), 60–79] years) with a median National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score of 11 (IQR, 6–27) were included. Twenty‐nine patients (34%) died during the initial hospitalization. Median modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score at discharge among survivors was 4 (IQR, 2.5–5.5). At 1 and 5 years, 70% of survivors ad a mRS ≤3. Seventeen patients had recurrent strokes during the hospitalization and 12 patients had 19 recurrent strokes after discharge. The median survival time was 52 days (IQR, 6–1846). Older age per decade on admission [adjusted hazard ratios (aHR), 1.32; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.05–1.66, P = 0.02] and a higher mRS at discharge (aHR, 4.48; 95% CI, 2.72–7.39, P < 0.0001) were associated with mortality. Patients who were not treated with any reperfusion therapy had a trend towards reduced mortality (aHR, 0.39; 95% CI, 0.14–1.08, P = 0.07).

Conclusions

Survivors from BAO had severe short‐term functional disability. Most deaths and stroke recurrences occurred within the first year following the initial event. The risk of death was higher in older and more disabled survivors. However, favorable long‐term recovery was possible.
Sociability development in mice with cell‐specific deletion of the NMDA receptor NR1 subunit gene
Authors: Ferri Sarah L. , Pallathra Ashley A. , Kim Hyong , Dow Holly C. , Raje Praachi , McMullen Mary , Bilker Warren B. , Siegel Steven J. , Abel Ted , Brodkin Edward S.
Published: November 2019

Social affiliative behavior is an important component of everyday life in many species and is likely to be disrupted in disabling ways in various neurodevelopmental and neuropsychiatric disorders. Therefore, determining the mechanisms involved in these processes is crucial. A link between N‐methyl‐d‐aspartate (NMDA) receptor function and social behaviors has been clearly established. The cell types in which NMDA receptors are critical for social affiliative behavior, however, remain unclear. Here, we use mice carrying a conditional allele of the NMDA R1 subunit to address this question. Mice bearing a floxed NMDAR1 (NR1) allele were crossed with transgenic calcium/calmodulin‐dependent kinase IIα (CaMKIIα)‐Cre mice or parvalbumin (PV)‐Cre mice targeting postnatal excitatory forebrain or PV‐expressing interneurons, respectively, and assessed using the three‐chambered Social Approach Test. We found that deletion of NR1 in PV‐positive interneurons had no effect on social sniffing, but deletion of NR1 in glutamatergic pyramidal cells resulted in a significant increase in social approach behavior, regardless of age or sex. Therefore, forebrain excitatory neurons expressing NR1 play an important role in regulating social affiliative behavior.
Decoupled erosion of amphibians’ phylogenetic and functional diversity due to extinction
Authors: Oliveira Brunno F. , Scheffers Brett R. , Costa Gabriel C.
Published: November 2019

Aim

It has been argued that the loss of phylogenetic diversity (PD) from species extinctions will result in concomitant loss of functional diversity (FD). As a result, species extinction undermines not only unique evolutionary history, but also ecosystem function and stability. Using data from > 6,000 amphibian species globally, we assess the potential erosion of PD and FD as a result of extinction.

Location

Global.

Time period

From the present day to the next 100 years.

Major taxa studied

Amphibians (Anura, Caudata and Gymnophiona).

Methods

We simulated future biogeographical patterns of extinction based on International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) threat status, and estimated the loss of PD and FD accordingly. We used null models to determine the extent to which extinctions may result in disproportional losses of PD and FD relative to random extinction. Using spatial regressions, we tested whether the loss of PD can predict the loss of FD.

Results

Although spatial patterns of current amphibian PD and FD were similar, extinctions did not retain this similarity. The magnitude of such a decoupling varied widely in space, with most of the global assemblages losing more FD than PD.

Main conclusion

This study challenges the assumption that extinctions should yield comparable loss of PD and FD. Species may not be equivalent in the amount of unique evolutionary history and ecological functions that would be lost if they become extinct. Designing conservation strategies based on a single dimension of biodiversity has the danger of leading to misinformed outcomes.
Making place and creating frontiers: Examining land and resource struggles in Cambodian post‐conflict resource landscapes
Authors: Chann Sopheak
Published: November 2019

This article explores place‐making in post‐conflict resource landscapes by elaborating on the concept of frontier construction. Much of resource frontier literature examines conflicts over access to land and resources, but very few studies look at how places emerge through the process of frontier‐making. This article provides an in‐depth analysis of place‐making in Northwest Cardamom region, a former battlefield and ex‐Khmer Rouge stronghold, where the current socio‐spatial relationships are formed by the competing access to land and resources. I argue that the formation of place in post‐war resource landscapes is the creation of frontiers where the relationship between local people and landscapes are formed through the reinforcing imagination of resource landscapes as wastelands. Everyday socio‐spatial relationships in resource frontiers are established through three tensions: (1) socio‐ecological intensity, (2) social confrontation, and (3) local vs state territorial contestation.
Microbial community dynamics and their contributions to organic acid production during the early stage of the ensiling of Napier grass (Pennisetum purpureum)
Authors: Yuan XianJun , Dong ZhiHao , Li JunFeng , Shao Tao
Published: November 2019

The study aimed to disclose the microbial community dynamics and their contributions to organic acid production during the ensiling of Napier grass. Napier grass was harvested at the vegetative growth phase and ensiled for 30 days. Three silos were opened after 1, 2, 3, 5, 7, 14, and 30 days of ensiling respectively. The intensive fermentation was observed during the initial stage of ensiling, indicated by lower pH (<4.0) on d 2 of ensiling. Lactic acid (LA) was the primary fermentation product, although acetic acid (AA) concentration rapidly increased and LA/AA concentration gradually decreased after 3 days of ensiling. The ethanol concentration was already 11.8 g/kg DM on d 1 of ensiling and then remained stable until the end of ensiling. Lactococcus was the predominant genus during the initial 2 days of ensiling, and then, it was gradually replaced by Lactobacillus. The increase in ammonia nitrogen and butyric acid concentration after 7 days of ensiling was attributed to the growth of Clostridia, which is favored by the high moisture concentration in the Napier grass. The natural ensiling of Napier grass displayed LA‐type fermentation and was dominated by the fermentation of Lactobacillus and Lactococcus. Lactobacillus is mainly responsible for the LA production during the ensiling of Napier grass.
Reconceiving the Boundaries of Home: The ‘Oikology’ of Ephesians
Authors: Ticciati Susannah
Published: November 2019

This article offers a reading of Ephesians in repair of a modern liberal inclusivism that unwittingly perpetuates an oppressive colonialist logic. It delineates the dynamic of dwelling, building and inhabitation present in Ephesians via the oik‐ root, coining the term ‘oikology’ to capture its inseparable economy and ecology. Willie James Jennings is a key dialogue partner in the articulation of the colonialist logic to be overcome. The particular species of modern inclusivism in view is that which is exhibited by New Testament scholars associated with the New Perspective on Paul, which I argue remains captive to a supersessionist logic. The article offers a non‐supersessionist reading of Ephesians, arguing that Israel, rather than being replaced, remains the wider habitat in which the gentile Ephesians find their home. In this way the article seeks a reading of the cosmic Christology of Ephesians as an instantiation not of colonial inclusivism but of true catholicity.
The Patience of God the Creator: Reflections on Genesis 1:1–2:4a
Authors: Jones Paul Dafydd
Published: November 2019

This article proposes that Genesis 1:1–2:4a be read in terms of an exercise of divine patience – an act of ‘letting be’ and ‘letting happen’ wherein God establishes, guides, waits on and endorses the free action of non‐human creatures. It first articulates a doctrine of creatio ex nihilo, affirming that God is solely responsible for the establishment of a dynamic, complex and valuable cosmos. Next, it contends that God's creative efforts include the empowerment of non‐human creatures who reward God's patience and commit themselves to the task of creatio cooperativa. It then argues that the emergence of human beings is a creative act undertaken by God and non‐human creatures, such that the human bears both the imago dei and the imago mundi. In conclusion, the article considers the relationship of divine and human action, the limits of the idiom of causality, and the possibility of developing a doctrine of creation in light of the witness of the Hebrew Bible.
2020 Vision – The Year of the Nurse and Midwife
Authors: Howard Catton
Published: November 2019

The World Health Organization has designated 2020 as the Year of the Nurse and Midwife. With a predicted shortfall of more than nine million nurses and midwives by 2030, the World Health Organization has recognized the urgency of tackling the approaching workforce issues head on. The activities planned should provide a once in a generation opportunity to promote the nursing profession and address crucial issues, such as recruitment and retention, professional development and pay and conditions. The International Council of Nurses is working closely with its National Nursing Associations around the world and other key nursing and health organizations, to create a long‐lasting legacy that will raise the profile of the profession with the public, boost its professional status, and make it sustainable in the future.
Sessile rotifers (Rotifera) exhibit strong seasonality in a shallow, eutrophic Ramsar site in Mexico
Authors: Jiménez‐Santos Marco Antonio , Sarma S. S. S. , Nandini S. , Wallace Robert L.
Published: November 2019

To better understand the sessile rotifer community of a shallow, eutrophic lake, we monitored over a 1‐year period the monthly changes in the density and diversity of rotifers on the roots of the common water hyacinth,Eichhornia crassipes, which served as a representative hydrophyte. Selected physical and chemical parameters of the water were also determined. Mean annual density of all sessile species was 630 individuals per ml. Species of Collothecacea (n = 7) were most abundant. Of the 12 species of Flosculariaceae (Flosculariidae),Sinantherina socialisoccurred seasonally, whilePtygura beauchampiwas most common across all seasons. The Shannon–Wiener diversity index was highest (H′ = 2.8) in April, but decreased in January (H′ = 1.3). Applying the concept of the guild ratio (functional‐based analysis) we found that raptorial species (Collothecacea) were dominant over most of the year (June–February), while microphagous Flosculariidae were dominant during the warm, drier season (March–May). BEST (optimal matching of biota to environment, including stepwise search) analysis and canonical correspondence revealed that temperature, dissolved oxygen, pH, turbidity, and transparency strongly influenced sessile rotifer dynamics. We also found significant correlations between the density of some species and physicochemical variables. These species includedCollotheca ambigua,C. coronetta,C. ornata,C. campanulata,C. tenuilobata, andStephanoceros millsiiin the Collothecacea; andBeauchampia crucigere,Limnias melicerta,L. ceratophylli,Ptygura crystallina,P. melicerta, andSinantherina ariprepesin the Flosculariidae. Our study shows that the communities of sessile rotifers were structured by abiotic factors and that the guild ratio is useful for understanding the relationship between sessile rotifers and their substrata.