bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of the Experience in Using the Third-Party Payment on the Payment Model of Online Shopping
Authors: Wu Shwu-Ing , Chuang Ya-Chen
Published: June 2018

As it is impossible for consumers to conduct a face-to-face transaction in online shopping, both buyers and sellers would mistrust each other and lack a sense of security. To address this problem, people have gradually paid heed to the third-party payment. Targeting at the third-party payment, this study probed into the effects of consumers’ perceived risk and benefit of the third-party payment system, social impact and personal involvement in the Internet on the attitude towards the third-party payment system, perceived value and use intention. Moreover, a relational model was established, and the differences between those who had used the third-party payment and those who hadn’t were explored. In this study, the convenience sampling was adopted to retrieve 761 valid questionnaire copies. The respondents were divided into two groups according to the experience in using the third-party payment: one had used the third-party payment and the other hadn’t. Then, the two groups were compared. The findings showed that there was significant difference between the two groups in three relational paths: (1) for the online shoppers who had used the third-party payment, perceived benefit had stronger influence on use attitude; (2) for the online shoppers who had never used the third-party payment, attitude had greater impact on the use intention of the third-party payment; (3) for the online shoppers who had used the third-party payment, perceived value had more significant effect on the use intention of the third-party payment. The research results also demonstrated that there was some difference in behavioral model between the two groups. These findings can be taken as reference information for the third-party payment enterprises to make strategies.
Exploratory Study on the Consumer’s Awareness of the Concept of Green Marketing in the Saudi Market
Authors: Ibrahim Ahmed Ahmed Osman , Mohamed  Abdelgadir Somaia Osman
Published: June 2018

The study dealt with an explanatory study about the extent to which the Saudi consumer understands the concept of green marketing in the Saudi market. As green marketing plays an important role in the social and ethical responsibility of marketing .One of the main hypothesis, is that, there is a follow up, and knowledge of the protective administrative means, followed by the company, and consumer's protection. The objective of the research is to identify the extent to which consumer awareness and understanding of the concept of green marketing, in protecting himself and the society. The descriptive and analytical statistical methodology has been followed to present the study data. The most important findings' are that the Saudi consumer has a high sense of responsibility towards the environment in general. Prioritizing their preferences to select products in purchasing decisions. The most important recommendations are to encourage consumers to adopt environmentally friendly values and culture through promotional messages directed at the consumer, by companies.
Activation of Fibrinolysis in Guinea-Pig Serum by Bile Acids
Authors: Olesen E. S
Published: June 2018

Various bile acids produced fibrinolytic activity in guinea-pig serum under similar conditions as previously established for various anionic polyelectrolytes [Olesen (1959 b,c)].

“Tauroglycocholate“ furthermore produced fibrinolytic activity by simple addition to guinea-pig serum.

These reactions probably depend on polyanion interactions with active and/or inhibitory components of the fibrinolytic system.

The observations suggest that bile acids could be involved in producing fibrinolytic activity in the biliary system.
Upregulation of High Mobility Group Box 1 May Contribute to the Pathogenesis of Biliary Atresia
Authors: Ye Chun Jing , Wang Jiang , Yang Yi Fan , Shen Zhen , Chen Gong , Huang Yan Lei , Zheng Yi Jie , Dong Rui , Zheng Shan
Published: June 2018

Introduction Biliary atresia (BA) is a progressive inflammatory obstructive cholangiopathy in infants. High mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) is known to play an important role as a late mediator of inflammation. However, it is not clear whether HMGB1 levels are of clinical significance in patients with BA. The aim of this study was to determine correlations between serum HMGB1 levels and the clinicopathologic features of BA.

Materials and Methods Serum samples were collected from 19 infants with BA, 7 infants with anicteric choledochal cysts (CC) and normal liver function, and 8 healthy controls. Serum HMGB1 levels were measured with an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Routine liver function tests were performed on serum samples. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and western blot analyses were used to detect HMGB1 expression in BA liver biopsy tissues. Localization of HMGB1 expression in the hepatic lobule was determined by immunohistochemical analysis.

Results HMGB1 levels in serum collected from BA infants were significantly elevated compared with CC and healthy control patients. Furthermore, elevated serum levels of HMGB1 in BA infants positively correlated with gamma-glutamyl transferase levels. HMGB1 messenger ribonucleic acid and protein expression levels were upregulated in BA liver biopsy tissues compared with CC patients. Immunohistochemical analysis also revealed increased positive immunostaining for HMGB1 in BA liver tissues as compared with CC tissues.

Conclusion HMGB1 may play a crucial role in the pathogenesis of BA. Additionally, the correlation of serum HMGB1 levels with gamma-glutamyl transferase levels may provide a novel marker for the diagnosis of BA.
Effectiveness of a Model Bundle Payment Initiative for Femur Fracture Patients
Authors: Lott Ariana , Belayneh Rebekah , Haglin Jack , Konda Sanjit , Egol Kenneth A.
Published: June 2018

Objectives:

To analyze the effectiveness of a Bundled Payment for Care Improvement (BPCI) initiative for patients who would be included in a future potential Surgical Hip and Femur Fracture Treatment bundle.

Design:

Retrospective cohort.

Setting:

Single Academic Institution.

Patients/Participants:

Patients discharged with operative fixation of a hip or femur fracture (Diagnosis-Related Group codes 480–482) between January 2015 and October 2016 were included. A BPCI initiative based on an established program for BPCI total joint arthroplasty was initiated for patients with hip and femur fractures in January 2016. Patients were divided into nonbundle (care before initiative) and bundle (care with initiative) cohorts.

Intervention:

Application of BPCI principles.

Main Outcome Measures:

Length of stay, location of discharge, and readmissions.

Results:

One hundred sixteen patients participated in the “institutional bundle,” and 126 received care before the initiative. There was a trend toward decreased mean length of stay (7.3 ± 6.3 days vs. 6.8 ± 4.0 days, P = 0.457) and decreased readmission within 90 days (22.2% vs. 18.1%, P = 0.426). The number of patients discharged home doubled (30.2% vs. 14.3%, P = 0.008). There was no difference in readmission rates in bundle versus nonbundle patients based on discharged home status; however, bundle patients discharged to a skilled nursing facility trended toward less readmissions than nonbundle patients discharged to a skilled nursing facility (37.3% vs. 50.6%, P = 0.402). Mean episode cost reduction due to initiative was estimated to be $6450 using Medicare reimbursement data.

Conclusion:

This study demonstrates the potential success of a BPCI initiative at 1 institution in decreasing postacute care facility utilization and cost of care when used for a hip and femur fracture population.

Level of Evidence:

Therapeutic Level IV. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Clinical Utility of Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization (FISH) for Deletion of Chromosome 3p in the Work-up of Renal Masses
Authors: Perrino Carmen M. , Orien Jason A. , Tretter Jason G. , Zhao Weiqiang , Zynger Debra L.
Published: June 2018

Chromosome 3p deletion is a well-established genetic aberration in clear cell renal cell carcinoma (RCC). We aimed to evaluate the clinical utility of 3p fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) on formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissue in surgical pathology specimens. 3p:3q <0.8 was established as the cut-off for 3p loss. The 2015 Medicare allowable billing rates were used to estimate the cost. Over 2.5 years (2013 to 2015), 3p FISH was performed on 18 cases per year. Among tested cases, 70% (30/43) were nephrectomies and 30% (14/43) metastases. 3p loss was detected in 44% (19/43) of cases, with a higher rate of loss in radical compared with partial nephrectomies (71% vs. 15%; P=0.003). A definitive RCC subtype was assigned in 65% (28/43) of cases. More partial nephrectomies had a definitive subtype assigned, compared with radical nephrectomies (92% vs. 59%; P=0.04), possibly related to more high-grade, high-stage tumors in submitted radical nephrectomies. Tested nephrectomies were most commonly diagnosed as clear cell (41%) or clear cell papillary RCC (32%). Half of unclassifiable RCCs had 3p loss (53%, 8/15). Annual 3p FISH costs were $3446.64, with 79% of costs from ancillary studies attributable to immunostains. 3p FISH was performed infrequently in nephrectomy specimens and was not cost prohibitive. RCC cases that are unclassifiable by morphology and other ancillary tests, but which have 3p FISH deletion may merit a comment in the pathology report, raising the possibility of clear cell RCC, as the oncologic approach may be altered despite the lack of a definitive RCC subtype.
Metal-Insulator Transition of Solid Hydrogen by the Antisymmetric Shadow Wave Function
Authors: Calcavecchia Francesco , Kühne Thomas D.
Published: June 2018

We revisit the pressure-induced molecular-atomic metal-insulator transition of solid hydrogen by means of variational quantum Monte Carlo simulations based on the antisymmetric shadow wave function. For the purpose of facilitating the study of the electronic structure of large-scale fermionic systems, the shadow wave function formalism is extended by a series of technical advancements as implemented in our HswfQMC code. Among others, these improvements include a revised optimization method for the employed shadow wave function and an enhanced treatment of periodic systems with long-range interactions. It is found that the superior accuracy of the antisymmetric shadow wave function results in a significantly increased transition pressure with respect to previous theoretical estimates.
A Nissen-féle fundoplicatio sikeressége és az azt befolyásoló faktorok. Eredmények a Pécsi Tudományegyetemen az indikációk és tünetek függvényében
Authors: Varjú Péter , Horváth Örs Péter , Papp András , Gede Noémi , Czimmer József
Published: June 2018

Abstract:

Introduction: Gastroesophageal reflux disease is one of the most common gastrointestinal diseases in developed countries. Besides the conservative modalities, surgery plays an increasing role in the treatment of the disease. Aim: Our aim was to investigate and compare the surgical and 6-month follow-up data of patients to the literature (quality control), who underwent Nissen fundoplication in the Medical Centre of Pécs between 2007 and 2014, and to assess the factors (especially psychiatric comorbidity and antidepressants) influencing the success. Method: In summary, data of 183 fundoplications of 166 patients were collected from the medical database of the University of Pécs. Statistical analysis: For data analysis, descriptive statistical methods (relative frequency) and odds ratio with 95% confidence interval were used. Results: The most frequent indication of fundoplications was hiatal hernia combined with the failure of conservative (proton-pump inhibitor, PPI) treatment (54%). Reoperation rate (8%) was similar to literature data (5–10%). 62% of the patients had postoperative complaints, which, except bloating, were more common among women. 93.67% experienced certain grade of improvement of reflux symptoms. Postoperative PPI treatment was necessary in 37% of patients and in 9% postoperative interventions had to be performed. Female gender and psychiatric comorbidity worsened, antidepressant medication improved the success rate. The results of reoperations were inferior compared to primary operations. Conclusions: Our results suggest that the success rate of fundoplications in our centre fits to the literature data and adequate antidepressant medication may improve the worse results of psychiatric patients postoperatively, however, more randomized clinical studies are needed in this issue. Orv Hetil. 2018; 159(25): 1013–1023.
Sub-acute oxidant and histopathological effects of imidacloprid on kidney of adult female Wistar rats
Authors: Lohiya Archana , Kumar Vinod , Punia J. S.
Published: June 2018

Imidacloprid is a neonicotinoid insecticide and has been extensively used as a crop pest and pet flea control programme. In the present study, the effects of imidacloprid on kidney tissue were analyzed in adult female Wistar rats at two dose levels (19 and 38 mg/kg/day) administered orally for 10, 20 and 30 days. Effects were compared with respective control animals administered daily with 2% gum acacia. Different parameters undertaken were kidney weight, levels of cytoplasmic and membrane proteins, oxidative stress parameters viz. activities of SOD, GPx and levels of GSH and MDA and histopathological changes. Imidacloprid at 38 mg/kg dose administered orally for 20 and 30 days significantly increased organ weight and levels of MDA. The activities of enzymes SOD and GPx and levels of GSH were decreased significantly at 38 mg/kg dose administered daily for 30 days. There was significant decrease observed in levels of cytoplasmic and membrane proteins at 38 mg/kg dose administered orally for 20 and 30 days. Histopathological changes in kidney at 38 mg/kg dose in 20 and 30 days group. Therefore, it is concluded that imidacloprid has generated oxidative stress in kidney at 38 mg/kg dose administered orally for 20 and 30 days in adult female Wistar rats.
Gray, Lila Ellen. Fado Resounding: Affective Politics and Urban Life. Durham and London: Duke University Press, 2013.
Authors: DaCosta Holton Kimberly
Published: June 2018

Lila Ellen Gray’s Fado Resounding: Affective Politics and Urban Life has the feel of a magnum opus. Ambitious in its breadth, it is clear from the get-go that this study is no small undertaking. Indeed, this is the first full-length ethnography of Portuguese fado published in English. Gray does not hedge by underpromising, and by the final afterword following six meticulously researched and theorized chapters, she has delivered a major contribution to fado scholarship.
Carvalho, Bruno. Porous City: A Cultural History of Rio de Janeiro (from 1810s Onward). Liverpool: Liverpool University Press, 2013.
Authors: Vieira Nelson H.
Published: June 2018

Detailed, lucid, judicious, and engaging, this cultural history of Rio de Janeiro incites interest via its uncovering of the many socio-historical and cultural layers embedded in the urban memory of a city that radiates socio-cultural and ethno-racial mixtures while simultaneously stratifying such elements economically, racially, and socially. Never skirting the inherent contradictions and socio-economic inequities historically prevalent in Brazil’s former national capital, emblematic of many other cities in the nation and abroad, Porous City does indeed capture how a proclivity for cultural porosity with its ebbs and flows contributes to the definition and reformulation of urban spaces and how that porosity conveys indelible social ramifications.
Research of influence of various methods of crops zhitnyaka on efficiency of the improved pastures in the arid zone of Northern Prikaspiya
Authors: Bulakhtina G K , Kudryashov A V , Kudryashova N I , Tumanyan A F , Terekhin A A
Published: June 2018

Article tells that experiment of crops of a Agropyrum for improvement of an unproductive pasture is made. Agropyrum - the most perspective fodder culture possessing steady harvests, high fodder advantages is steady against salty lands, durability, drought resistance and winter hardiness which is used for improvement of natural fodder grounds in arid regions of Russia. The sowed material - mix of three types Agropyrum: Siberian (Agropyrum Sibiricum, Willa), desert (Agropyrum desertozum, Figeh) and pectineal (Agropyrum pectiniforme, Sehuet), the pastures of the Astrakhan region collected on natural the sukhostepnykh. The purpose of researches - to study influence of sowing time (autumn, spring) and the directions of crops (the North-South, the West-East) of a Agropyrum on efficiency of a new pasture in arid conditions of Northern Prikaspiya. When carrying out researches popular methods of crops and a research of pastures have been used. Results of researches have shown: seeds of different types of a Agropyrum were similar on the weight and viability; at crops in the spring in the first year of life the most part of a new pasture was occupied by different herbs, and at autumn crops - the most part of a pasture was occupied Agropyrum; crops with the direction the West-East were optimum for development of herbs on a new pasture since the harvest at crops was more in the spring, than a crops harvest with the direction the North-South on 0,5 tons from 1 hectare, and at autumn sowing time - on 0,9 tons from 1 hectare (according to the second year of life of a Agropyrum); autumn sowing time - optimum for crops of a Agropyrum at restoration of arid pastures because the productivity of a new pasture (the second year of life of a Agropyrum) was higher, than at crops in the spring on 0,8 tons from 1 hectare (at the direction of crops the West-East) and on 0,4 tons from 1 hectare (North-South). Thus, at the first stage of long-term experience we have created new agronomical ecosystems - the improved arid pastures and have reached in two years of their higher efficiency in comparison with natural steppe ecosystems. At the following stages researches of stability of these agronomical ecosystems, including their longevity and maintaining efficiency are planned.
Effect of humus preparations on chlorophyl content in leave and potato plant productivity on sandy soil in Moscow distric
Authors: Lyashko M U , Tsvetkova U V , Gressis V O
Published: June 2018

Results on evaluation of effect of organic preparations LFSC-HA (Life Force Soil Conditioner Natural Humic Acids for soil fertility) and LFSC-HB (Life Force Soil Conditioner Humate Balance for soil enrichment) on productivity of potato plant of early maturing variety arizina. Two preparations have been provided by firm Life Force Ltd (Moscow). A field experiment was carried out on a potato plantation of the firm Agriko-Eurasia in Moscow district on sandy soil with low humus content. Organic preparations were applied in to soil by hand in powder form in 50 g/sq. m dosage. Reaction of potato plants on the experimental treatment was assessed by measurement of chlorophyll a and b content in potato leaves, and number and mass of tubes per plant at harvest. Positive effect of preparation used on chlorophyll content in leaves and number of tubes peer plant was found. Prevailing number of tubes of small sizes (less than 30 mm) - 38% may be considered as negative effect for early maturing variety. Number of tubes greater than 50 mm may be assigned to stimulative effect of organic preparation LFSC-HA on tube formation may and to additional amount of phosphorus and potassium containing in the preparation as well. Additional evaluation of organic preparation produced by Life Force Ltd are needed to separate positive effects of organic substances and additional amount of mineral elements in it. Having in mind positive effect tested preparations on formation of bigger number of tubes there it is advisable to carry out experiments with late maturing varieties.
Economic Diversification and the Urban Image; Changing the Narrative on Street Vending
Authors: BALARABE MUHAMMAD K , IBRAHIM ABDULSALAM SHEMA , AHMAD MARYAM
Published: June 2018

Street vending is a dynamic phenomenon of network of events, socio-economic and cultural factors while remaining a narration of place. At the metropolitan level, the narrative is negatively skewed towards street vending and its aesthetic reality, contemporaneously exploring hostile environmental interventions within the informal sector. This paper attempted to explore a counter-narrative asking; based on aesthetic experience, can the “desired” urban image to be achieved by allowing street vendors proliferate in public spaces? This question was asked within the scope of the political-economy of diversification in Nigeria. The paper argued that, around public spaces such as parks and sidewalks, the precarious nature of vending activities lead to their diffidence in upgrades to stalls, tables and kiosks. With pictures from spaces that appear to approve of street vending tacitly, a pattern of upgrades in vending apparatus and kiosks were established. This paper proposes an integrative model of passive, active and tacit support that is required to influence the discourse of vending activities within the context of urban images produced in Nigerian. In conclusion and using sing Gouverneur (2014) concepts of receptors and transformers, this paper revealed that potential existing parks within a dense urban area could serve as transformers, creating an urban image that defies that “out of place” narrative associated with vendors.
Orientação Empreendedora e o contexto dos Negócios Internacionais
Authors: Santos Jhunior Ronaldo De Oliveira , Vilela Nágila Giovanna Silva
Published: June 2018

O objetivo deste trabalho é apresentar as bases teóricas e o atual cenário de pesquisas relacionadas à Orientação Empreendedora (OE). Visando a uma reflexão mais aprofundada sobre a temática, foi também realizada uma análise a respeito da Orientação Empreendedora no ambiente de pesquisas em negócios internacionais, tema com crescente presença nos estudos de estratégia organizacional. Em termos metodológicos, esse estudo consiste em uma pesquisa de abordagem exploratória e qualitativa, tendo sido feito o uso do método de revisão conceitual para a revisão de literatura realizada. No que se refere às fontes utilizadas, os trabalhos analisados foram coletados nas bases de dados Web of Science e ScienceDirect e abrangeu o período entre 2007 e 2017. Os resultados revelam que os estudos a respeito da Orientação Empreendedora mostram sinais de crescimento nos últimos anos e que o conceito de Orientação Empreendedora Internacional se apresenta como perspectiva capaz de possibilitar tal crescimento com novos rumos de investigação. The objective of this work is to present the theoretical bases and the current research scenario related to entrepreneurship orientation (OE). Aiming at a more in-depth reflection on the theme, an analysis was also made regarding the entrepreneurial orientation in the international business research environment, a topic with increasing presence in organizational strategy studies. In methodological terms, this study consists of an exploratory and qualitative research, using the conceptual review method to review the literature. Regarding the sources used, the analyzed works were collected in the Web of Science and ScienceDirect databases and covered the period between 2007 and 2017. The results show that the studies about the Entrepreneurial Orientation show signs of growth in the recent years and that the concept of International Entrepreneurial Orientation presents itself as a perspective capable of enabling such growth with new directions for research.
Assessing neonatal care practices in rural Nepal
Authors: Rezai Tania , Baral Kedar , Koirala Samir , Paudel Sudarshan , Kache Saraswati
Published: June 2018

Introductions: Child health indicators of under-five and infant mortality has improved in Nepal, but neonatal mortality remains high. The aim of this study is to assess neonatal care practices among mothers in rural Nepal.Methods: A household survey was conducted in the village of Daman in Makwanpur district, Nepal. All households that had an infant less than one year of age, and had been residing in Daman for greater than six months were included in the study.Results: There were 117 mothers with neonate assessed. The average age of mothers was 24 years and 39 (33.3%) were illiterate, 53 (45.3%) were home births and 36 (30.8%) births were registered. Ninety seven (82.9%) neonates cried immediately after birth, 95 (81.1%) used a new or boiled blade for umbilical cord, 20 (16.7%) applied oil to the cord stump and 71 (61%) breastfed within first hour of birth. There was a significant relationship between non-exclusive breastfeeding and sickness.Conclusions: In Daman village community awareness for umbilical cord care and breastfeeding after birth was high. For thermal regulation of the infant, more health education is required.Journal of Patan Academy of Health Sciences, Vol. 2, No. 2, 2015. page: 23-27
Occurrence of Measles among Children Admitted in Tertiary Care Hospital
Authors: Ahsan Mohammed Rizwanul , Mamun Abdullah Al , Alam Hossain Shahid Kamrul , Sarker Probir Kumar , Makbul Sabrina , Kabir Rowshan , Al Mamun ABM Mahfuj Hassan
Published: June 2018

Background: Despite widespread vaccination against measles in Bangladesh outbreak continue to occur. The Objective of the study was to see the demographic characteristics of patients who had the diagnosis of measles at Dhaka Shishu (Children) Hospital and occurrence of measles from the time of vaccination.Methodology: This retrospective study was conducted on patient who were diagnosed as measles at Dhaka Shishu (Children) Hospital between 1st January 2017 to 30th April 2017. The diagnosis of measles based on clinical features and laboratory confirmation. Demographic characteristics of patients and occurrence of measles from the time of vaccination was recorded. Data were analyzed by using SPSS version 21.Results: Total 13864 patients were admitted during the study period and among them 23 were confirmed as measles. Rate of measles was found as 0.16% among hospitalized children with male predominance. Among the measles patients age of onset was <9 months in 2(8.7%), 9-12 months in 8(34.8%), 13-14 months in 11(47.8%) and 15 months and above in 2(8.6%) cases. Among 23 measles patients vaccine was not given in 2(8.7%) patients, one dose of vaccine was given in 19(82.60%) patients and two doses of vaccine were given in 2(8.7%) patients. Most of the measles patients came after one vaccination which means after first dose. Though measles incidence significantly reduced after the successful introduction of measles vaccination in EPI, still measles are prevalent in our country and occurs before completion of two doses of vaccine.Conclusion: Majority of measles cases developed before completion of two doses of vaccine though the successful measles vaccination are going on.Bangladesh J Child Health 2018; VOL 42 (1) :15-18
Serum Lead Level in Children with Acute Leukemia
Authors: Ahmed Tasnim , Morshed AKM Amirul , Choudhury Tasrina Rabia , Khan Md Shahidur Rahman , Begum Marium
Published: June 2018

Background: Lead toxicity is one of the most frequently reported unintentional toxic heavy metal exposures and the leading cause of single metal toxicity in children. Lead has no known beneficial function in human metabolism, rather its exposure has various detrimental effect on child health. Lead exposure causes activation of several cellular and molecular processer in leukemic cells so the purpose of the study was to measure serum concentration of lead in newly diagnosed acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) patients.Methodology: The study group consisted of newly diagnosed ALL patients ranging from 2 to 12 years who were admitted at the Department of Pediatrics in Dhaka Medical College Hospital (DMCH), from February 2013 to January 2014 and age and sex matched healthy children’s were selected as controls. Serum measurements for lead were performed by Atomic absorption spectrophotometer in Analytical Chemistry Laboratory of Atomic Energy Centre Ramna, Dhaka.Results: The ALL group composed of 30 patients and 33 healthy children in the control group. There was no significant difference in the age (p=0.781) and sex (p=0.572) of the two groups. The mean serum lead level of ALL patient group (234.8±162.9 μg/L) was significantly higher than that of the control group (23.6±12.6 μg/L). There was significant difference of serum lead level in children with ALL and control group (p<0.05).Conclusion: Serum lead (PB) level was significantly raised in acute lymphoblastic leukemia patients.Bangladesh J Child Health 2018; VOL 42 (1) :26-29
Corporate Governance, Strategic Choices and Performance of Financial Institutions in Kenya
Authors: Kamau Grace , Aosa Evans , Machuki Vincent , Pokhariyal Ganesh
Published: June 2018

It has been argued that corporate governance plays a critical role in determining the strategic direction of corporations. This is achieved through formulation of strategic choices that utilizes firm’s internal resources to align corporations to the external environment for optimal performances. In this study, we sought to determine the influence of corporate governance and strategic choices to the performance of financial institutions in Kenya. A cross sectional descriptive research design was adopted and, primary data collected from top executives of 108 financial institutions. We analyzed data using regression analysis. Results indicate that corporate governance and strategic choices significantly influences organizational performance. Further, the study revealed a partial mediation of strategic choices to corporate governance and organizational performance. It was concluded that besides corporate governance being a key determinant of performance in organizations, adoption of appropriate strategic choices greatly enhances the performance. The results are important to organizational leaders, policy makers, investors and all corporate stakeholders in determining optimal strategies for organizational posterity.
Wat is de toegevoegde waarde van de onafhankelijk deskundige bij beleidsdoorlichtingen?
Authors: Houppermans Meyken
Published: June 2018

Wat is de toegevoegde waarde van de onafhankelijk deskundige bij beleidsdoorlichtingen?

In 2015 is de Regeling Periodiek Evaluatieonderzoek (RPE) ingevoerd, met vier methodologische kwaliteitscriteria waaraan beleidsdoorlichtingen moeten voldoen en waarop een onafhankelijk deskundige toetst. Uit een verkennende analyse van 164 beleidsdoorlichtingen van 2006 tot en met 2017 blijkt een kwart hieraan te voldoen. Sinds 2015 is de kwaliteit van beleidsdoorlichtingen niet verbeterd, noch is er meer inzicht in doelmatigheid en doeltreffendheid. De invoering van kwaliteitscriteria en de onafhankelijke toetsing daarop resulteren mogelijk, maar niet gegarandeerd in betere beleidsdoorlichtingen. De RPE blijkt geen werkbaar instrument om beleid door te lichten. Het beantwoorden van doorlichtingsvragen is onmogelijk bij gebrek aan onderliggend evaluatiemateriaal en resulteert in antwoorden die weinig inzicht geven in het beleid. Verruiming is nodig: de RPE moet stimuleren om via diverse wegen en soorten informatie te komen tot een gefundeerde onderbouwing van beleidseffecten. Richtinggevend, niet dwingend. Syntheseonderzoek volstaat niet, aanvullend onderzoek is nodig. De onafhankelijk deskundige moet vooral methodologisch expert zijn en vroegtijdiger worden betrokken bij de beleidsdoorlichting.
Improvements in the Thrombin Generation Test
Authors: Ollendorff Preben
Published: June 2018

The influence of glass contact on the thrombin generation test was demonstrated and a modified method described.

Nearly all prothrombin had been converted to thrombin before the thrombin concentration reached its maximum.
Der Einfluß von Zitrat und Liquemin auf die Blutkonservation
Authors: Fleisch Herbert
Published: June 2018

Frisches menschliches Blut wird unter sterilen Bedingungen, zum Teil mit Zusatz von Zitrat, zum Teil mit Zusatz von Liquemin, während 27 Tagen bei 4—6° C aufbewahrt, und in verschiedenen Zeitabständen werden die Intensität der Blutgerinnung, die Spontanhämolyse und die mechanische Resistenz der Erythrozyten bestimmt. Bei Zitratzusatz steigt die Blutgerinnung vom 2. Tag an schwach an. Die Spontanhämolyse und die mechanische Resistenz erfahren bis zum 10. Tage der Konservierungszeit keine nennenswerten Änderungen; danach nimmt die Spontanhämolyse und insbesondere die mechanische Resistenz der Erythrozyten stark zu.

Blut mit Liquemin versetzt zeigt schon nach 1 Tage erhöhte Gersmnselbildung, die weiter rasch zunimmt. Die Spontanhämolyse steigt in den ersten 3 Tagen langsam an und wächst rapid weiter. Die Zerbrechlichkeit der Erythrozyten ist schon nach 24 Stunden erhöht und erfährt im weiteren Verlaufe die größte Zunahme.

Alle 3 untersuchten Parameter zeigen bei Liqueminzusatz wesentlich größere Änderungen als bei Zitratzusatz.
The „Bridge Effect”
Authors: Mayer G , Mayer S , Waitz R
Published: June 2018

The “Bridge effect“ consists in the fact that an incomplete thromboplastin, tested by the thromboplastin generation test of Biggs and Douglas on a substrate having a deficiency in its own thromboplastin generation, coagulates it more slowly than a normal substrate. It is observed when the factorial deficiencies of the substrate and the thromboplastin correspond with each other (hemophilic — hemophilic, Christmas — Christmas), it is weak and inconstant (Christmas thromboplastin — hemophilic substrate) or non existent (hemophilic thromboplastin — Christmas substrate) when they are crossed. It is eliminated by an adequate correction of the substrate (AHG added to the hemophilic substrate, PTC added to the Christmas substrate). The “Bridge effect“ is a source of error which must be taken into account in the manipulation of thromboplastin generation tests.
Plasma Thromboplastin Component (Christmas Factor, Factor IX) Levels in Stored Human Blood and Plasma
Authors: Dieter Geratz J , Graham John B.
Published: June 2018

1. PTC activity was assayed in 26 units of human plasma prepared from whole blood stored for 3 weeks at 4° C. The plasma had been frozen and stored at — 20° C for additional periods ranging from a few days to 4 months. High PTC activity was still present in the plasma at the end of this period, the activity averaging 95% of normal.

2. The PTC activity of 19 samples of “reclaimed“ plasma stored for an additional 6 months at — 20° C decreased by an average of 23%. This decrease was statistically significant.

3. Liquid plasma kept at room temperature for 5½—7½ months contained no PTC activity.

4. Lyophilized plasma stored at room temperature for 6—8 years contained an average of 30% PTC activity. Lyophilized plasma stored at — 20° C for 4 years contained 68% PTC activity.

5. ACD and disodium hydrogen citrate anticoagulant solutions served equally well in preserving PTC activity in whole blood stored in glass tubes over a period of 3 weeks at 4° C.

6. “Reclaimed“ plasma from outdated bank blood provided effective hemostasis in two operations for the removal of 20 teeth from a severely PTC-deficient patient.

7. The high PTC activity of “reclaimed“ plasma was confirmed by the close agreement between the PTC level expected in a PTC deficient patient after transfusion of such plasma and that observed.
Platelet Activity and Activation of Blood Clotting by Glass
Authors: Ollendorff Preben
Published: June 2018

Through an investigation of the influence of platelet activity on the initiation of clotting by glass contact the following results were obtained:

1. There was no correlation between platelet count and platelet activity in centrifuged plasma.

2. When platelet-rich plasma was treated by excess of powdered glass the activated “foreign surface factor“ (FSF) in plasma was removed by the glass powder.

3. When glass treated high-spun plasma was stored for 24 hours in siliconized tubes all the activity was lost, whereas in samples of glass treated platelet-rich plasma most of the activity remained.

4. It was possible to produce higher FSF activity when the platelet-poor plasma prior to treatment by glass was either adsorbed by BaSO4 or diluted 1: 10.

5. FSF activity was removed when activated plasma was treated with BaSO4. All the results, as well as many contradictory results obtained by other investigators, can be explained by suggesting the presence of an inhibitor in plasma, which reacts against activation of the precursor of the “foreign surface factor“ (pro-FSF). This inhibitor is neutralized by a platelet factor. The active FSF might be identical with activated PTA.
Inhibition of Clotting as the Result of Plasminogen Activation by Streptokinase
Authors: Beller F. K , Glas P
Published: June 2018

Investigations of the clotting mechanism were carried out by lysis time determinations when plasminogen was activated by streptokinase and the following results were obtained:

1. The recalcification time during the period of activation showed an initial decrease of the clotting time, followed by a prolongation.

The thrombin time method showed only a prolongation up to the moment when inhibition of coagulation occurred.

2. The clotting factors II, V, VII, VIII and IX remained unaffected in this system.

3. The clotting activity, as well as the time required for the inhibition of coagulation, were dependent on the streptokinase concentration on the one hand, and on the fibrinogen concentration on the other.

4. An antithrombin-like inhibitor could be excluded as the cause of incoagulability.

5. In our system, inhibition of coagulation was caused by fibrinogenolysis, by which fibrinogen was altered to a biologically inactive globulin. The latter could still be demonstrated in large amounts by means of certain protein estimations. But the proteolytic activity is assumed to be not strong enough to destroy the other clotting factors as well.

This system is, therefore, especially useful for studying the isolated “anti-fibrinogenic“ effect of plasmin.
An examination of a modified Yo‐Yo test to measure intermittent running performance in rugby players
Authors: Dobbin Nick , Moss Samantha Louise , Highton Jamie , Twist Craig
Published: June 2018

This study examined how starting each shuttle in the prone position altered the internal, external and perceptual responses to the Yo‐Yo Intermittent Recovery Test Level 1 (Yo‐Yo IR1). Using a randomized crossover design, 17 male rugby players completed the Yo‐Yo IR1 and prone Yo‐Yo IR1 on two separate occasions. External loads (via microtechnology), , heart rate (HR) and rating of perceived exertion (RPE) were measured at 160, 280 and 440 m (sub‐maximal) and when the test was terminated (peak). The pre‐to‐post change in blood lactate concentration (Δ[La]b) was determined for both tests. All data were analysed using effect sizes (ES) and magnitude‐based inferences. Between‐trial differences (ES ± 90% CL) indicated that total distance was most likely lower (−1.87 ± 0.19), whereas other measures of peak external load were likely to very likely higher during the prone Yo‐Yo IR1 (0.62–1.80). Sub‐maximal RPE was likely to most likely higher (0.40–0.96) and peak RPE very likely higher (0.63 ± 0.41) in the prone Yo‐Yo IR1. The change in [La]b was likely higher after the prone Yo‐Yo IR1. Mean HR was possibly lower at 440 m (−0.25 ± 0.29) as was peak HR (−0.26 ± 0.25) in the prone Yo‐Yo IR1. , and were likely to very likely higher at 280 and 440 m (ES = 0.36–1.22), while peak values were possibly to likely higher (ES = 0.23–0.37) in the prone Yo‐Yo IR1. Adopting a prone position during the Yo‐Yo IR1 increases the internal, external and perceptual responses, placing greater emphasis on metabolically demanding actions typical of rugby.
Multiple deprivation and other risk factors for maternal obesity in Portsmouth, UK
Authors: Walker I V , Cresswell J A
Published: June 2018

Background

Maternal obesity is known to be associated with a range of adverse outcomes, both for the mothers and their children. It may be more prevalent in areas with higher deprivation as measured by the Index of Multiple Deprivation (IMD), but this has not been demonstrated consistently. This study focused primarily on the relationship between maternal obesity and deprivation in a setting where areas of significant deprivation are surrounded by the overall affluent South East England.

Methods

The study used the records of 3830 women who delivered under the care of a Portsmouth hospital from 1 April 2013 to 31 March 2014. Logistic regression was used to analyse the association between national IMD quintiles and maternal obesity, accounting for the potential confounders of age, ethnic origin, smoking status and parity.

Results

Following adjustment, women in the most deprived IMD quintile were 1.60 (95% CI: 1.13, 2.26) times more likely to be obese compared to those in the least deprived quintile. Maternal obesity was also found to be associated with ethnicity and parity, but not with age or smoking status.

Conclusions

Maternal obesity increased with increasing deprivation. IMD may be a useful group-level indicator when planning interventions aimed at tackling maternal obesity.
Osteoid Osteoma in Talus: Our Experience in Radioguided Surgery
Authors: Pérez Romero Carlos , Domínguez Meléndez Miguel , Rayo Madrid Juan Ignacio
Published: June 2018

The osteoid osteoma (OO) is the third most frequent benign bone tumor, whose location is more frequent in long bones of lower limbs. Its presence in the distal lower limb is uncommon, with the talus the most common reported location. Surgical treatments with radioguided surgery of OO of foot and ankle in our hospital were reviewed. We present a retrospective cohort study of 4 patients with clinical and radiologic findings suspicious OO with at least 1 year of follow-up. We used radioguided surgery for surgical resection after the injection of a dose of 99mTc-hydroxydiphosphonate. The nidus was located with the help of a portable gamma camera and gamma detection probe, concluding the surgical resection when its activity decreased to the levels present in healthy tissues. Samples were sent for pathologic anatomy for further examination. Lesions were localized in all patients. The cure rate, based on the absence of relapse of symptoms, was 100%. On the basis of our experience and on the available literature, we suggest that radioguided surgery is an effective and safe method for the treatment of OO in the foot and ankle. Although radiofrequency ablation is the first choice treatment for OO, radioguided surgery offers a number of advantages: an accurate delimitation of the nidus, allowing a more precise excision of the lesion; a decrease in postoperative complications; and the possibility of confirmation in histopathologic studies. Because of the small number of cases, a multicenter study could be useful to increase the number of cases and therefore provide more evidence to this type of treatment.

Level of Evidence: Level V. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Advances in B‐cell Precursor Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia Genomics
Authors: Schwab Claire , Harrison Christine J.
Published: June 2018

In childhood B‐cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia (BCP‐ALL), cytogenetic abnormalities remain important diagnostic and prognostic tools. A number of well‐established abnormalities are routinely used in risk stratification for treatment. These include high hyperdiploidy and ETV6‐RUNX1 fusion, classified as good risk, while Philadelphia chromosome (Ph) positive ALL and rearrangements of the KMT2A (MLL) gene define poor risk. A poor risk subgroup of intrachromosomal amplification of chromosome 21 (iAMP21‐ALL) has been described, in which intensification of therapy has greatly improved outcome.

Until recently, no consistent molecular features were defined in around 30% of BCP‐ALL (known as B‐other‐ALL). Recent studies are classifying them into distinct subgroups, some with clear potential for novel therapeutic approaches. For example, in 1 poor risk subtype, known as Ph‐like/BCR‐ABL1‐like ALL, approximately 10% have rearrangements of ABL‐class tyrosine kinases: including ABL1, ABL2, PDGFRB, PDGFRA, and CSF1R. Notably, they show a poor response to standard chemotherapy, while they respond to treatment with tyrosine kinase inhibitors, such as imatinib. In other Ph‐like‐ALL patients, deregulation of the cytokine receptor, CRLF2, and JAK2 rearrangements lead to activation of the JAK‐STAT signaling pathway, implicating a specific role for JAK inhibitors in their treatment. Other novel subgroups within B‐other‐ALL are defined by the IGH‐DUX4 translocation, related to deletions of the ERG gene and a good outcome, while fusions involving ZNF384, MEF2D, and intragenic PAX5 amplification (PAX5AMP) are linked to a poor outcome. Continued genetic screening will eventually lead to complete genomic classification of BCP‐ALL and define more molecular targets for less toxic therapies.
Antibody Persistence up to 3 Years After Primary Immunization With Inactivated Japanese Encephalitis Vaccine IXIARO in Philippine Children and Effect of a Booster Dose
Authors: Kadlecek Vera , Borja-Tabora Charissa Fay , Eder-Lingelbach Susanne , Gatchalian Salvacion , Kiermayr Sigrid , Sablan Benjamin , Kundi Michael , Taucher Christian , Dubischar Katrin L.
Published: June 2018

Background:

An inactivated Vero cell culture derived Japanese encephalitis virus vaccine (IXIARO) requires a booster dose 1 year after primary schedule for long-term antibody persistence in adults. The aim of this study is to evaluate immunogenicity and safety of a booster dose in children 2 months to <18 years of age.

Methods:

This is a randomized, controlled open-label study in the Philippines. Three hundred children vaccinated with IXIARO in a previous trial were randomized 1:1 to receive either no booster or a booster 12 months after initiation of the primary series. Neutralizing antibody titers were assessed before and after the booster and up to 3 years after primary series. Safety endpoints included the rate of subjects with solicited adverse events (AEs), unsolicited AEs and serious AEs within 1 month after the booster.

Results:

Geometric mean titer declined by 1 year after the primary series, but titers remained above the established protective threshold in 85%–100% of children depending on age group. The booster led to a pronounced increase in geometric mean titer and 100% seroprotection rate in all age groups. The booster was well tolerated, with AE rates lower compared with the primary series. Most AEs were mild.

Conclusions:

A booster dose of IXIARO administered 12 months after the primary immunization was well tolerated and highly immunogenic.