bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
E-service quality and actual use of e-banking: Explanation through the Technology Acceptance Model
Authors: Ahmad Sheraz , Bhatti Sabeen Hussain , Hwang Yujong
Published: August 2019

Due to recent technological developments in banking, the use of e-banking is becoming increasingly widespread. This study explored the effect of e-service quality on actual use of e-banking services and explained it through the Technology Acceptance Model. A survey was conducted in Pakistan and 493 questionnaires were collected from e-banking users and the data was analyzed using AMOS 20 and SPSS 20. The results of the study indicate that e-service quality positively affects perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use and intention to use e-banking and perceived usefulness positively affects attitude towards using e-banking and behavioral intentions to use e-banking. Perceived ease of use affects attitudes towards e-banking and attitudes positively affect behavioral intentions to use e-banking and behavioral intentions further positively affect actual use of e-banking. The sequential mediation of attitude and intention has been confirmed between e-service quality and actual use of e-banking. This study has significance for the managers of banking industry and will enable them to influence the attitude of customers in favor of their services and also help them devise strategies to improve their profitability.
Meaning and Modularity: The Multivalence of “Mechanism” in Sociological Explanation
Authors: Knight Carly R. , Reed Isaac Ariail
Published: August 2019

Mechanisms are ubiquitous in sociological explanation. Recent theoretical work has sought to extend mechanistic explanation further still: into cultural and interpretative analysis. Yet it is not clear that the concept of mechanism can coherently unify interpretation and causal explanation within a single explanatory framework. We note that sociological mechanistic explanation is marked by a crucial disjuncture. Specifically, we identify two conflicting mechanistic approaches: Modular mechanism models depict counterfactual dependence among independent causal chains, whereas meaningful mechanism models depict relational interdependence among semiotic assemblages. This disjuncture, we argue, is grounded in incompatible causal foundations and entails mechanistic models with distinct and conflicting evidentiary standards. We conclude by proposing a way forward: a sociological pluralism that is attentive to the productive incongruity of our distinct explanatory models.
Ultra-wide-field imaging of choroidal melanoma before and after proton beam radiation therapy
Authors: Psomiadi Angeliki , Haas Gertrud , Edlinger Michael , Bechrakis Nikolaos E , Blatsios Georgios
Published: August 2019

Objective:

To evaluate the imaging characteristics of choroidal melanoma before and after proton beam radiotherapy via Optos® ultra-wide-field scanning laser ophthalmoscopy.

Methods:

Retrospective, descriptive study of choroidal melanoma patients treated with proton beam radiotherapy. All patients underwent full clinical evaluation, including best-corrected visual acuity, ultrasound examination and ultra-wide-field scanning laser ophthalmoscopy imaging in the pseudo-colour (red and green channel) as well as auto-fluorescence mode. Tumours were classified and evaluated according to their location, size, presence of subretinal fluid, drusen, orange pigment and reflectance intensity in ultra-wide-field scanning laser ophthalmoscopy. Tumour sonographic (basal diameter, height) and ultra-wide-field scanning laser ophthalmoscopy imaging dimensions (maximal diameter) were documented.

Results:

A total of 39 eyes (38 patients) were followed for 24 months (range 6–48 months). Mean best-corrected visual acuity dropped from 20/40 to 20/63 after proton beam radiotherapy. There was no change in the imaging tumour characteristics during follow-up. Subretinal fluid changes were better detected in the autofluorescence compared to pseudo-colour mode. Mean tumour diameter did not significantly change in the ultra-wide-field scanning laser ophthalmoscopy although it did so in the ultrasound. No patient showed local tumour recurrence.

Conclusion:

The ultra-wide-field scanning laser ophthalmoscopy imaging characteristics of choroidal melanoma in the Optos® system do not significantly change after proton beam radiotherapy after a mean follow-up of 2 years.
Prospective Audit to Study urokinaSe use to restore Patency in Occluded centRal venous caTheters (PASSPORT 1)
Authors: Kumwenda Mick John , Mitra Sandip , Khawaja Aurangzaib , Inston Nicholas , Nightingale Peter
Published: August 2019

Objectives:

Tunnelled central venous catheters dysfunction can be defined as failure to provide blood flow above 200 mL/min during dialysis often caused by thrombosis. Although urokinase is used routinely for thrombolysis, there is wide variation in dose regimens. A multidisciplinary group was formed to address this issue and offer guidance.

Methods:

Dialysis centres that used urokinase in the United Kingdom took part in a prospective study to determine the safety and outcomes of thrombolysis using agreed protocols. Data were collected anonymously from September 2017 until February 2018. Catheter blood flow was measured before and after the following interventions: catheter dwell or push locks with 12,500–50,000 IU or catheter infusion with 100,000–250,000 IU of urokinase. Interventions were repeated if the blood flow remained below 200 mL/min.

Results:

10 centres took part and recruited 200 patients; 45.5% were female and 54.5% were male with mean age of 63.6 (±15.2) years. The cumulative success rate for thrombolysis was 90.5% after first intervention, 97% after second intervention, and 99% after more than 2 interventions. Although there was trend towards benefit with dose increments, the success rate between push/dwell locks and high-dose infusion of urokinase was not significantly different (p = 0.069). Seventeen (8.5%) tunnelled central venous catheters were removed due to failure of treatment. No urokinase-related adverse events were reported.

Conclusion:

In this study, urokinase was safe and efficacious; there was no difference between dwell and push locks. There was some benefit with high-dose infusion of urokinase compared to the dwell and push lock.
Beyond center-based testing: Understanding and improving functioning with wearable technology in MS
Authors: Brichetto Giampaolo , Pedullà Ludovico , Podda Jessica , Tacchino Andrea
Published: August 2019

Wearable sensors are designed to be worn on the body or embedded into portable devices (e.g. smartphones and smartwatches), allowing continuous patient-based monitoring, objective outcomes measuring, and feedback delivering on daily-life activities. Within the medicine domain, there has been a rapid increase in the development, testing, and use of wearable technologies especially in the context of neurological diseases. Although wearables represent promising tools also in multiple sclerosis (MS), the research on their application in MS is still ongoing, and further studies are required to assess their reliability and accuracy to monitor body functions and disability in people with MS (pwMS). Here, we provided a comprehensive overview of the opportunities, potential challenges, and limitations of the wearable technology use in MS. In particular, we classified previous findings within this field into macro-categories, considered crucial for disease management: assessment, monitoring, intervention, advice, and education. Given the increasing pivotal role played by wearables, current literature suggests that for pwMS, the time is right to shift from a center-based traditional therapeutic paradigm toward a personalized patient-based disease self-management. On this way, we present two ongoing initiatives aimed at implementing a continuous monitoring of pwMS and, consequently, providing timely and appropriate care interventions.
Beyond rehabilitation in MS: Insights from non-invasive brain stimulation
Authors: Leocani Letizia , Chieffo Raffaella , Gentile Antonietta , Centonze Diego
Published: August 2019

Although the number of disease-modifying treatments for people with multiple sclerosis (pwMS) has meaningfully increased in the past years, targeting repair or compensation for central nervous system damage associated with the disease process remains an important clinical goal. With this aim, neurorehabilitation is a powerful approach targeting central nervous system plasticity. Another driver of brain plasticity is non-invasive brain stimulation (NIBS), receiving recent attention in neurology, particularly for its potential synergy with neurorehabilitation and as add-on treatment for several neurological conditions, from pain to fatigue to sensorimotor and cognitive deficits. In this review, we will resume the evidence exploring the neurobiological basis of NIBS and its applications to MS-related conditions.
Refusing the ‘Foolish Wisdom of Resignation’: Kaupapa Māori in conversation with Adorno
Authors: Kirloskar-Steinbach Monika , Mika Carl
Published: August 2019

Drawing on select works of Adorno, we will first rehearse his reasons for a rejuvenation of philosophy and apply them to philosophers working on world philosophical traditions. We will then analyse Adorno’s arguments pertaining to the theory–praxis relation to ascertain whether his thought could accommodate a study of world philosophical traditions for the simple reason that they are present in a particular society. Shifting our focus slightly, we reflect upon how current ways of professional philosophizing affect the study of world philosophical traditions. As the example of Māori philosophy demonstrates, current philosophical practices seem to delimit the search for the unconventional in academic philosophy. Through its philosophical appropriation, the so-called unconventional tends to mimic conventional patterns in academic philosophy. We will then attempt to find reasons to critique this process within the Adornoian framework itself. The conclusion draws together different strands of the discussion and delineates some paths to take forward the world philosophies project in an Adornoian spirit.
Validation, optimisation and comparison of carbon dioxide-based occupancy estimation algorithms
Authors: Nienaber Felix , Wolf Sebastian , Wesseling Mark , Calì Davide , Müller Dirk , Madsen Henrik
Published: August 2019

The operation of heating, cooling and air-conditioning (HVAC) in buildings often adheres to fixed time schedules. However, associating HVAC schedules to the occupant’s presence patterns can save a significant amount of energy, reducing operation periods to the required minimum. Therefore, automated occupancy estimation provides valuable input to efficient building control strategies. This work discusses the validation and adjustment for two carbon dioxide-based occupancy detection algorithms based on data from ten multi-person offices. Both methods are based on a carbon dioxide mass balance equation. However, they follow two different philosophies. One model is deterministic and includes a more detailed representation of the system, whereas the other model includes stochastic elements and was based on fewer assumptions. Both approaches show similar and promising results. The advantages and drawbacks of each method are reviewed. Furthermore, adjustments of the algorithms to the given conditions and possible future improvements are discussed.
Securing Chinese mass market visitation to Cotai’s integrated resorts (IRs): Determinants of gaming and non-gaming attributes that influence IR selection
Authors: McCartney Glenn
Published: August 2019

For the past two decades, Macao’s casino industry has become increasingly competitive, with patronage and the city’s extraordinary casino revenue secured by Mainland Chinese visitation. Over 60% of Macao’s gaming revenues are now generated from The Cotai Strip’s integrated resorts (IRs) where the presentation of products and services to best create and grow IR Chinese patronage is increasingly critical. The findings of this servicescape study conducted at Cotai’s IRs on Chinese mass market visitors revealed that IR layout and ambience conditions, as well as food and beverage elements, could be used to encourage IR patronage. Casino operations, rewards and luck were components that could induce a repeat visit to the IR or even a competing IR on the respondent’s return visit to Macao. The implications are significant for casino operators and destination marketing given the limited insight in the servicescape literature on the IR environment including specific attributes to focus on to secure Chinese visitation to the casino complex and Cotai Strip IR cluster.
Voice audio methods
Authors: Gallagher Michael
Published: August 2019

This paper explores the potential of voice audio in qualitative research, as data in its own right rather than only as a precursor to transcription. Building on critiques of voice in qualitative research, I argue that audio can enable researchers to work with the more-than-representational excesses of voice. Developing this line of thinking, I draw on Levi Bryant’s machinic ontology to set out a post-humanist conception of voice as arising within ecologies of media machines. As an example of what machinic voice audio can do, I describe an experimental audio work that I produced as part of research on a ruinous landscape. The final section of the paper makes more general observations about the malleability and fallibility of the machinic voice.
Psychosocial Barriers After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: A Clinical Review of Factors Influencing Postoperative Success
Authors: Burland Julie P. , Toonstra Jennifer L. , Howard Jennifer S.
Published: August 2019

Context:

Psychosocial factors arising after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury may have a direct influence on an individual’s decision to return to sport after ACL reconstruction (ACLR). While there is ample evidence to suggest that deficits in quadriceps strength, neuromuscular control, and clinical functional tasks exist after ACLR, the root and contribution of psychological dysfunction to an individual’s success or return to sport after ACLR is still largely uncertain and unexplored. Given the discrepancy between successful functional outcomes and the percentage of athletes who return to sport, it is important to thoroughly address underlying factors, aside from physical function, that may be contributing to these lower return rates.

Evidence Acquisition:

Articles that reported on return to sport, psychological factors, and psychosocial factors after ACLR were collected from peer-reviewed sources available on Medline (1998 through August 2018). Search terms included the following: anterior cruciate ligament OR ACL AND return-to-sport OR return-to-activity, anterior cruciate ligament OR ACL AND psychological OR psychosocial OR biopsychosocial OR fear OR kinesiophobia OR self-efficacy, return-to-activity AND psychological OR psychosocial.

Study Design:

Clinical review.

Level of Evidence:

Level 5.

Results:

Psychosocial factors relative to injury are important components of the rehabilitation process. To fully understand how psychosocial factors potentially influence return to sport, an athlete’s emotions, experiences, and perceptions during the rehabilitation process must be acknowledged and taken into consideration.

Conclusion:

Acknowledgment of these psychosocial factors allows clinicians to have a better understanding of readiness to return to sport from a psychological perspective. Merging of the current ACLR rehabilitation protocols with knowledge related to psychosocial factors creates a more dynamic, comprehensive approach in creating a positive and successful rehabilitation environment, which may help improve return-to-sport rates in individuals after ACLR.
Essential Partners for Student Health and Safety: Round Table Discussion With School Nurses and School Resource Officers
Authors: Embrey Mary Louise , Rosiak John
Published: August 2019

This article explores the partnership between school nurses and school resource officers. Through an interviewing process, the authors summarize current examples of how the partnership is essential and effective in 21st-century schools across the United States.
Histological Analysis of the Wrapping Treatment for Meniscal Horizontal Tears in Rabbits
Authors: Nakagawa Kosuke , Otsuki Shuhei , Murakami Tomohiko , Okamoto Yoshinori , Okuno Nobuhiro , Wakama Hitoshi , Sezaki Shunsuke , Ikeda Kuniaki , Okayoshi Tomohiro , Neo Masashi
Published: August 2019

Objective

To investigate meniscal regeneration and prevent cartilage degeneration using wrapping treatment for meniscal horizontal tears that have been difficult to repair in rabbits.

Design

Thirty knees from 15 Japanese white rabbits were divided into the horizontal (horizontal tears) or wrapping (horizontal tears with wrapping treatment) groups. Horizontal tears were created and wrapped with a sheet scaffold containing polyglycolic acid, polylactic acid, and polycaprolactone. The meniscus was stained with Safranin-O/Fast Green and evaluated with modified Pauli scores at 8, 12, and 16 weeks after implantation ( n = 5). Cell morphology was determined with hematoxylin and eosin staining. Mature collagen was confirmed with Picrosirius Red staining. Furthermore, immunohistochemical analysis of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) for inflammation, Ki-67 for proliferation, and type II collagen for regeneration was performed. Medial femoral cartilage was stained with Safranin-O/Fast Green and evaluated with the Osteoarthritis Research Society International score at 8 and 16 weeks.

Results

The wrapping group had significantly better regeneration than the horizontal group, especially at 16 weeks ( P < 0.05). Wrapping treatment induced fibrochondrocyte-like cells at 16 weeks. After wrapping treatment, iNOS was overexpressed at 8 weeks, Ki-67 at 8 and 12 weeks, and type II collagen at 16 weeks. Cartilage degeneration in the wrapping group did not progress significantly compared with that in the horizontal group at 16 weeks ( P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Wrapping treatment for meniscal horizontal tears induced meniscal regeneration as the sheet scaffold might induce intrinsic and extrinsic repair. Regaining the meniscal function by the wrapping treatment prevented cartilage degeneration.
Cost per response/remission in biologics available in Italy for the treatment of TNF-α inhibitors-naïve patients with ulcerative colitis
Authors: Ruggeri Matteo , Rolli Francesca Romana
Published: August 2019

Objective:

This study compares the cost of a sustained response or remission (at 52 weeks’ follow-up) across biologics approved in Italy for the treatment of moderately to severely active ulcerative colitis (UC), specifically among anti-TNF-α-naïve patients. The analysis is from the perspective of the national healthcare provider (SSN) for one year of treatment.

Methods:

Efficacy data about the induction of response/remission probabilities at 52 weeks and the number needed to treat (NNT) were derived from a network meta-analysis of randomized controlled clinical trials of the following drugs: infliximab (originator and biosimilar), adalimumab, golimumab and vedolizumab. It included the acquisition and administration costs of biologics, based on an activity-based costing analysis performed in 3 Italian centers of excellence for UC treatment.

Results:

The costs per patient in sustained response at 52 weeks were, in increasing order: vedolizumab €47,772 (95% CI €29,869 - €101,055), biosimilar infliximab €48,657 (95% CI €31,488 - €95,523), golimumab (100 mg every 4 weeks at maintenance) €57,940 (95% CI €38,00 - €106,206), golimumab (50 mg every 4 weeks at maintenance) €62,504 (95% CI €39,976 - €120,477), adalimumab €101,181 (95% CI €49,635 - €422,334). The costs per patient in sustained remission at 52 weeks were: vedolizumab €86,220 (95% CI €47,015 - €206,652), biosimilar infliximab €92,562 (95% CI €52,954 - €203,619).

Conclusions:

In patients with moderate to severe UC not previously treated with TNF-α inhibitors, treatment needed with vedolizumab to obtain a response or remission at 52 weeks of follow-up is less costly to the SSN compared with the other UC-approved biologics available in Italy.
Purpose in Life and Conscientiousness Protect Against the Development of Suicidal Ideation in U.S. Military Veterans With PTSD and MDD: Results From the National Health and Resilience in Veterans Study
Authors: Straus Elizabeth , Norman Sonya B. , Tripp Jessica C. , Pitts Michelle , Pietrzak Robert H.
Published: August 2019

Background

Although several studies have examined risk factors for suicidal ideation among veterans, little is known about risk and protective factors for suicidal ideation in high-risk veteran samples. Thus, this study examined a broad range of risk and protective factors associated with the development of suicidal ideation in a high-risk sample of U.S. veterans who screened positive for current posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and/or major depressive disorder (MDD) .

Methods

Data were analyzed from the National Health and Resilience in Veterans Study, a nationally representative, prospective cohort study of U.S. veterans. Veterans completed self-report measures to screen for PTSD and MDD and to assess for risk and protective factors. The sample included 222 veterans with PTSD and/or MDD who did not endorse suicidal ideation at baseline and completed at least one assessment over a seven-year follow-up period. A multivariable binary logistic regression analysis was conducted to examine baseline factors associated with incident suicidal ideation.

Results

Nearly one in three (27.1%) of veterans with PTSD and/or MDD developed suicidal ideation over the seven-year follow-up period. Non-Caucasian race and lower scores on measures of purpose in life, conscientiousness, and frequency of religious service attendance were independently associated with incident suicidal ideation. Lower purpose in life (52.3%) and conscientiousness (33.2%) explained the vast majority of variance in incident suicidal ideation.

Conclusion

Nearly 30% of veterans with PTSD and/or MDD who did not endorse suicidal ideation at baseline developed suicidal ideation over a seven-year period. Prevention and treatment efforts designed to bolster purpose in life and conscientiousness may help mitigate risk for suicidal ideation in this high-risk population.
Outcomes and Practice Preferences After Endophthalmitis Following Anti-VEGF Intravitreal Injection
Authors: Chen Yicheng , Shah Gaurav K. , Shah Vaishali , Blinder Kevin J. , Jeroudi Abdallah M. , Leonard Anthony , Gilca Marina , Pollack John S. , Wang Rui , Wykoff Charles C. , Weinstock Brett M. , Regillo Carl D. , van Zyl Tave , Modjtahedi Bobeck S. , Eliott Dean , Kalevar Ananda , Jumper J. Michael , Whitted Ryan J. , Lee Gregory , Kitchens John W. , Joseph Anthony , Heier Jeffrey S. , Rostamizadeh Mahdi , Abdelaziz Musa , Singerman Lawrence J. , Hu Jonathan K. , Tewari Asheesh
Published: August 2019

Purpose:

This study examines treatment-based outcomes of endophthalmitis due to antivascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) intravitreal injection and its effect on subsequent management of neovascular disease.

Methods:

A retrospective multicenter study was conducted of 157 patients with a diagnosis of endophthalmitis following anti-VEGF intravitreal injection at 10 major ophthalmic centers.

Results:

The median number of injections before endophthalmitis was 10 (range, 1 to 84 injections). Initial treatment with tap and inject with or without subsequent vitrectomy trended toward smaller visual acuity changes from baseline (4 ETDRS [Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study] letter difference vs 19 ETDRS letter difference) compared with initial vitrectomy, but the difference was not statistically significant. There was no significant change in medication choice among injections after endophthalmitis. There was a statistically significant shift away from regular interval (1- to 2-month) injections and a shift toward treat-and-extend and as-needed injection algorithms.

Conclusions:

The visual outcomes were not significantly different between patients who initially underwent tap and injection of antibiotics and those who underwent vitrectomy. There was no significant change in medication choice before and after endophthalmitis but there was a shift toward lower-frequency injection algorithms after postintravitreal injection endophthalmitis compared with prior.
Sector Retinitis Pigmentosa and a Novel Rhodopsin Point Mutation—Case Series
Authors: Careba Ioana , Almuhtaseb Hussein , Gupta Bhaskar , De Salvo Gabriella
Published: August 2019

Purpose:

This article describes the clinical features and differential diagnosis of 4 cases of sector autosomal dominant (AD) retinitis pigmentosa (RP) studied with multimodal imaging, using autofluorescence (AF) imaging as a key diagnostic tool.

Methods:

The current study is an observational case series of 4 patients with characteristic visual field (VF) defects. Ophthalmic examination, VF testing, spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT), electrodiagnostic tests (EDTs), AF imaging, and genetic testing were performed in the 8 eyes of 4 patients (1 female and 3 male).

Results:

In all 4 cases, fundus examination revealed retinal pigment epithelial changes mainly in the inferotemporal retinal quadrant. The optic discs looked healthy, with no evidence of glaucomatous neuropathy. In each case, AF showed a bilateral, well-demarcated, leaf-like perivascular area of patchy hypoautofluorescence surrounded by a halo of hyperautofluorescence. SD-OCT over the leaf-like area confirmed that the interdigitation zone, ellipsoid zone, external limiting membrane, and outer nuclear layer were all affected. The EDT results varied among patients but confirmed involvement of both rods and cones in 1 patient. Genetic testing confirmed the diagnosis of AD-RP with a mutation in RHO c.491c>Tp.(Ala164Val) in all 3 male patients, and a new mutation c.66C>Ap.(Ser22Arg) in the female patient.

Conclusions:

AF is a fundamental diagnostic tool in both the diagnosis and follow-up of sector RP. We recommend that ophthalmologists perform AF as an adjunctive diagnostic test in cases of unexplained VF defects.
Exploring Students’ Descriptions of Mutation from a Cognitive Perspective Suggests How to Modify Instructional Approaches
Authors: Zhao FangFang , Schuchardt Anita
Published: August 2019

Prior studies have shown that students have difficulty understanding the role of mutation in evolution and genetics. However, little is known about unifying themes underlying students’ difficulty with mutation. In this study, we examined students’ written explanations about mutation from a cognitive science perspective. According to one cognitive perspective, scientific phenomena can be perceived as entities or processes, and the miscategorization of processes as entities can lead to noncanonical ideas about scientific phenomena that are difficult to change. Students’ incorrect categorization of processes as entities is well documented in physics but has not been studied in biology. Unlike other scientific phenomena that have been studied, the word “mutation” refers to both the process causing a change in the DNA and the entity, the altered DNA, making mutation a relevant concept for exploration and extension of this theory. In this study, we show that, even after instruction on mutation, the majority of students provided entity-focused descriptions of mutation in response to a question that prompted for a process-focused description in a lizard or a bacterial population. Students’ noncanonical ideas about mutation occurred in both entity- and process-focused descriptions. Implications for conceptual understanding and instruction are discussed.
Implementation of Open Textbooks in Community and Technical College Biology Courses: The Good, the Bad, and the Data
Authors: Vander Waal Mills Kristyn E. , Gucinski Mark , Vander Waal Kimberly
Published: August 2019

One challenge facing students today is high textbook costs, which pose a particularly difficult obstacle at community and technical colleges, where students typically have lower incomes and textbooks constitute a larger proportion of the overall cost of education. To address this, many advocate for using open-source textbooks, which are free in a digital format. However, concerns have been raised about the quality and efficacy of open textbooks. We investigated these concerns by collecting data from general biology classes at four community and technical colleges implementing traditionally published (non-open) and open textbooks. We compared student outcomes, textbook utilization methods, and perceptions of textbooks in these courses. In generalized linear statistical models, book type (open vs. non-open) did not significantly influence measured student outcomes. Additionally, survey results found that students and faculty perceived the open textbook as equal in quality to other textbooks. However, results also suggested that student textbook use did not always align with faculty expectations. For example, 30% of students reported reading their textbooks compared with 85% of faculty expecting students to read the textbook. Finally, faculty who implemented open textbooks expected the textbook to be used more often for reference and review compared with faculty who use traditional textbooks.
Breaking Down Silos Working Meeting: An Approach to Fostering Cross-Disciplinary STEM–DBER Collaborations through Working Meetings
Authors: Reinholz Daniel L. , Andrews Tessa C.
Published: August 2019

There has been a recent push for greater collaboration across the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields in discipline-based education research (DBER). The DBER fields are unique in that they require a deep understanding of both disciplinary content and educational research. DBER scholars are generally trained and hold professional positions in discipline-specific departments. The professional societies with which DBER scholars are most closely aligned are also often discipline specific. This frequently results in DBER researchers working in silos. At the same time, there are many cross-cutting issues across DBER research in higher education, and DBER researchers across disciplines can benefit greatly from cross-disciplinary collaborations. This report describes the Breaking Down Silos working meeting, which was a short, focused meeting intentionally designed to foster such collaborations. The focus of Breaking Down Silos was institutional transformation in STEM education, but we describe the ways the overall meeting design and structure could be a useful model for fostering cross-­disciplinary collaborations around other research priorities of the DBER community. We describe our approach to meeting recruitment, premeeting work, and inclusive meeting design. We also highlight early outcomes from our perspective and the perspectives of the meeting participants.
Smoking cessation in severe mental illness: combined long-term quit rates from the UK SCIMITAR trials programme
Authors: Gilbody Simon , Peckham Emily , Bailey Della , Arundel Catherine , Heron Paul , Crosland Suzanne , Fairhurst Caroline , Hewitt Catherine , Li Jinshuo ,   members of the SCIMITAR+ collaborative
Published: August 2019

Smoking contributes to health inequalities for people with severe mental illness (SMI). Although smoking cessation interventions are effective in the short term, there are few long-term trial-based estimates of abstinence. The SCIMITAR trials programme includes the largest trial to date of a smoking cessation intervention for people with SMI, but this was underpowered to detect anticipated long-term quit rates. By pooling pilot and full-trial data we found that quit rates were maintained at 12 months (OR = 1.67, 95% CI 1.02–2.73, P = 0.04). Policymakers can now be confident that bespoke smoking cessation interventions produce successful short- and long-term quitting.
Fgf8a mutation affects craniofacial development and skeletal gene expression in zebrafish larvae
Authors: Gebuijs I. G. E. , Raterman S. T. , Metz J. R. , Swanenberg L. , Zethof J. , Van den Bos R. , Carels C. E. L. , Wagener F. A. D. T. G. , Von den Hoff J. W.
Published: August 2019

Craniofacial development is tightly regulated and therefore highly vulnerable to disturbance by genetic and environmental factors. Fibroblast growth factors (FGFs) direct migration, proliferation and survival of cranial neural crest cells (CNCCs) forming the human face. In this study, we analyzed bone and cartilage formation in the head of 5 dpf fgf8ati282 zebrafish larvae and assessed gene expression levels for 11 genes involved in these processes. In addition, in situ hybridization was performed on 8 and 24 hpf larvae (fgf8a, dlx2a, runx2a, col2a1a). A significant size reduction of 8 out of 9 craniofacial cartilage structures was found in homozygous mutant (6-36%, p<0.01) and heterozygous (7-24%, p<0.01) larvae. Also, 9 mineralized structures were not observed in all or part of the homozygous (0-71%, p<0.0001) and heterozygous (33-100%, p<0.0001) larvae. In homozygote mutants, runx2a and sp7 expression was upregulated compared to wildtypes, presumably to compensate for the reduced bone formation. Decreased col9a1b expression may compromise cartilage formation. Upregulated dlx2a in homozygotes indicates impaired CNCC function. Dlx2a expression was reduced in the first and second stream of CNCCs in homozygous mutants at 24 hpf, as shown by in situ hybridization. This indicates an impairment of CNCC migration and survival.by fgf8 mutation.
Overexpression of an alfalfa glutathione S-transferase gene improved the saline-alkali tolerance of transgenic tobacco
Authors: Du Binghao , An Yimin , Li Yakun , Zhang Xue , Song Lili , Guo Changhong
Published: August 2019

Abiotic stresses restrict the productivity and quality of agricultural crops. Glutathione S-transferase (GST) utilizes glutathione to scavenge reactive oxygen species (ROS) that result from abiotic stresses. This study aimed to determine the expression pattern of the MsGSTU8 gene and its effects on saline-alkali tolerance. MsGSTU8, from alfalfa (Medicago sativa 'Zhaodong'), was transformed into transgenic tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum) and overexpressed to determine its effects on saline-alkali tolerance. The gene products in alfalfa localized to the cytoplasm and the transcript levels were higher in the leaves than the roots and stems. Expression was strongly induced by cold, drought, salt and saline-alkali stresses as well as abscisic acid (ABA) treatments. The transgenic tobacco lines had significantly higher transcription levels of the abiotic stress-related genes and higher GST activity than the wild types. Transgenic tobacco lines with saline-alkali treatments maintained their chlorophyll content, showed improved antioxidant enzyme activity and soluble sugar levels, reduced ion leakage, O2.−, H2O2 accumulation and malondialdehyde content. Our results indicate that overexpression of MsGSTU8 could improve resistance to saline-alkali stresses by decreasing the accumulation of ROS and increasing the levels of antioxidant enzymes. Furthermore, they suggest that MsGSTU8 could be utilized for transgenic crop plant breeding.
Requirement of IFT-B–BBSome complex interaction in export of GPR161 from cilia
Authors: Nozaki Shohei , Castro Araya Roiner Francisco , Katoh Yohei , Nakayama Kazuhisa
Published: August 2019

The intraflagellar transport (IFT) machinery, which includes the IFT-A and IFT-B complexes, mediates bidirectional trafficking of ciliary proteins. In addition to these complexes, the BBSome, which is composed of 8 subunits that are encoded by the causative genes of Bardet-Biedl syndrome (BBS), has been proposed to connect the IFT machinery to ciliary membrane proteins, such as G protein-coupled receptors, to mediate their export from cilia. However, little is known about the connection between the IFT machinery and the BBSome. Using the visible immunoprecipitation assay, we here identified the interaction between IFT38 from the IFT-B complex and BBS1, BBS2 and BBS9 from the BBSome. Furthermore, by analyzing phenotypes of IFT38-knockout cells exogenously expressing wild-type IFT38 or its mutant lacking the ability to interact with BBS1+BBS2+BBS9, we showed that knockout cells expressing the IFT38 mutant have restored ciliogenesis; however, similar to BBS1-knockout cells, they demonstrated significant accumulation of GPR161 within cilia upon stimulation of Hedgehog signaling. These results indicate that the IFT-B–BBSome interaction is required for the export of GPR161 across the ciliary gate.
Fluid Loss during Exercise-Heat Stress Reduces Cardiac Vagal Autonomic Modulation
Authors: MACARTNEY MICHAEL J. , MEADE ROBERT D. , NOTLEY SEAN R. , HERRY CHRISTOPHE L. , SEELY ANDREW J. E. , KENNY GLEN P.
Published: August 2019

Purpose

Sweat-induced fluid loss during prolonged exercise-heat stress can compromise cardiovascular and thermoregulatory function, although its effects on cardiac autonomic modulation remain unclear. We therefore examined heart rate variability (HRV) and recovery (HRRec), as surrogates of cardiac autonomic modulation, during and after prolonged exercise in the heat with and without fluid replacement.

Methods

Eleven young and healthy men performed 90 min of semi-recumbent cycling in dry heat (40°C; 20% relative humidity) at a fixed rate of metabolic heat production (600 W; ~46% V˙O2peak) followed by 40-min resting recovery without fluid replacement (No-FR; ~3.4% reduction in body mass). On a separate day, participants completed the same protocol with fluid replacement (FR; 500–700 mL timed boluses) to offset sweat losses. Esophageal temperature and ECG were recorded throughout, with measurements analyzed over 10-min averaged epochs during baseline, each 30-min interval during exercise and 20-min interval during recovery.

Results

Esophageal temperature and heart rate were elevated in No-FR relative to FR throughout exercise (all P ≤ 0.02). The HRV indices reflecting vagal influence of heart rate including the cardiac vagal index (CVI = log10[16 × SD1 × SD2]) and root-mean-square of successive differences were attenuated throughout exercise relative to baseline in both conditions (all P < 0.05), with the magnitude of the reduction greater in the No-FR condition (all P < 0.05). Further, sample entropy was reduced throughout all time points measured during exercise in the No-FR relative to FR condition (all P ≤ 0.03).

Conclusions

Our unique observations indicate that while prolonged exercise heat stress attenuates the vagal influence and complexity of cardiac rhythms, that reduction is further exacerbated by fluid loss, highlighting the importance of fluid replacement in such conditions.
Divest, Disregard, or Double Down? Philanthropic Endowment Investments in Objectionable Firms
Authors: Tran Brigitte Roth
Published: August 2019

How much, if at all, should an endowment invest in a firm whose activities run counter to the charitable missions the endowment funds? I offer the first model characterizing this type of investment decision. I introduce a strategy called “mission hedging,” where—in contrast to traditional socially responsible investing—foundations may benefit from skewing investment toward the objectionable firm in order to align funding availability with need. I characterize the trade-offs driving foundation investment decisions. By leveraging the idiosyncratic firm risk typically diversified away in profit-maximizing portfolios, foundations may find that bad actors provide good opportunities to hedge mission-specific risks. (JEL G11, G14, L31, M14)
Clinical value of a new generation adaptive statistical iterative reconstruction (ASIR-V) in the diagnosis of pulmonary nodule in low-dose chest CT
Authors: Tang Hui , Liu Zhentang , Hu Zhijun , He Taiping , Li Dou , Yu Nan , Jia Yongjun , Shi Hong
Published: August 2019

Objective:

To evaluate the clinical value of low-dose chest CT combined with the new generation adaptive statistical iterative reconstruction (ASIR-V) algorithm in the diagnosis of pulmonary nodule.

Methods:

30 patients with pulmonary nodules underwent chest CT using Revolution CT. The patients were first scanned with standard-dose at a noise index (NI) of 14, and the images were reconstructed with filtered back projection (FBP) algorithm. If pulmonary nodules were found, a low-dose targeted scan, with NI of 24, was performed localized on the nodules, and the images were reconstructed with 60% ASIR-V. The detection rate of pulmonary nodules in the two scanning modes was recorded. The size of nodules, CT value and standard deviation of nodules were measured. The signal-to-noise ratio and contrast-to-noise ratio were also calculated. Two experienced radiologists used a 5-point method to score the image quality. The volumetric CT dose index, and dose–length product were recorded and the effective dose (ED) was calculated of the two scanning modes.

Results:

Volumetric CT dose index (ED) of the standard-dose scan covering the entire lungs was 7.29 ± 2.38 mGy (3.52 ± 1.09 mSv), and that of low-dose targeted scan was 2.56 ± 1.87 mGy (0.51 ± 0.32 mSv). However, the ED of the virtual low-dose scan for the entire lungs was 1.44 ± 0.15 mSv, which would mean a dose reduction of 59.1% compared with the standard-dose scan. 85 of the 87 pulmonary nodules were detected in the low-dose targeted scan, with 2 of the ground-glass density nodules with size less than 1 cm missed, resulting in 97.7% overall detection rate. There was no difference between the low-dose ASIR-V images and standard-dose FBP images for the size (1.49 ± 0.74 cm vs 1.48 ± 0.75 cm), CT value [33.02 ± 1.95 Hounsfield unit (HU) vs 34.6 ± 3.07 HU], standard deviation (27.64 ± 14.42 HU vs 30.38 ± 20.04 HU), signal-to-noise ratio (1.44 ± 0.88 vs 1.43 ± 1.31) and contrast-to-noise ratio (38.95 ± 18.43 vs 38.23 ± 14.99) of nodules (all p > 0.05). There was no difference in the subjective scores between the two scanning modes.

Conclusion:

The low-dose CT scan combined with ASIR-V algorithm is of comparable value in the detection and the display of pulmonary nodules when compared with the FBP images obtained by standard-dose scan.

Advances in knowledge:

This is a clinical study to evaluate the clinical value of pulmonary nodules using ASIR-V algorithm in the same patients in the low-dose chest CT scans. It suggests that ASIR-V provides similar image quality and detection rate for pulmonary nodules at much reduced radiation dose.
Overview of modern automation information systems activities of trade enterprises
Authors: Петрова Елена , Petrova Elena
Published: August 2019

Problems of automation of activity of the trade enterprises are considered, the review of the modern decisions presented in the market in this sphere is carried out.
Administration of foreign trade advantages and restrictions as the basis of the strategy of the new EU member States
Authors: Горбатенко Елена , Gorbatenko Elena
Published: August 2019

This article analyzes the current aspects of the management of regional economic integration processes in the context of the entry of new member States into the largest integration grouping in the modern world economy – the European Union (EU). Some components of these processes are considered on the example of a number of European countries that joined the bloc at the stage of 2004-2013. The significant trends in the foreign trade policy of the European Union are identified.
O projeto Erasmus: internacionalização da educação em contexto de integração | The Erasmus project: internationalization of education in the context of integration
Authors: Tostes Ana Paula Balthazar , Barros Silva Lucca Viersa
Published: August 2019

O artigo argumenta que há um duplo impacto do programa ERASMUS na região de integração europeia através da análise dos objetivos e da importância do programa para as políticas da União Europeia. O primeiro impacto é o da internacionalização da educação, que se dá inicialmente apenas no âmbito comunitário e após a criação do ERASMUS+ em 2014 se abre para fora da região de integração. O segundo impacto pode ser verificado pelo seu potencial em funcionar como uma das políticas de consolidação de valores comuns, símbolos, cultura e identidade regional, internamente, e externamente como uma estratégia de aumento de visibilidade da União, suas políticas e significados. O artigo traz uma sistematização de dados empíricos sobre o programa e uma análise que contribui para a melhor compreensão sobre políticas de intercâmbio que promovem internacionalização do ensino e pesquisa, além da reflexão sobre métodos e iniciativas bem-sucedidas em contextos de integração regional.Palavras-chave: Erasmus, intercâmbio internacional, educação.ABSTRACTThe article argues that there is a dual impact of the ERASMUS program in the region of European integration by examining the objectives and importance of the program in the European Union's policies. The first impact is the internationalization of education, which initially only takes place at Community level and after the criation of ERASMUS+ in 2014 opens up outside the region of integration. The second impact can be verified by its potential to function as one of the policies of consolidation of common values, symbols, culture and regional identity, internally, as well as externally it has worked as a strategy of increasing visibility of the Union, its policies and meanings. The article brings a systematization of empirical data about the program and an analysis to contribute to a better understanding of exchange policies that promote internationalization of teaching and research, as well as reflection on successful methods and initiatives in a context of regional integration.Keywords: Erasmus; international exchange; education.Recebido em 26 out.2018 | Aceito em 08 ago. 2019
Editorial | Editorial
Authors: Suppo Hugo , Granja Lorena
Published: August 2019

A Revista Mural Internacional, criada em 2010, acaba de ser promovida no ranking da avaliação da CAPES de B2 para A3. Esse reconhecimento é fruto do trabalho de uma equipe abnegada, que foi se renovando ao longo do tempo e que teve como impulsora à professora Miriam Gomes Saraiva do PPGRI. A partir deste ano, a revista conta com dois novos editores responsáveis que terão a enorme responsabilidade de dar continuidade ao excelente trabalho realizado pela sua antecessora, a professora Tatiana Oliveira e sua equipe, composta pelos professores Maurício Santoro, Lorena Granja Hernández e Danielle Costa da Silva.Dando continuidade ao processo de aperfeiçoamento da revista, a mesma será publicada anualmente, adotando o método de fluxo contínuo, segundo o qual os artigos são disponibilizados conforme seus processos de avaliação cega por pares e editoração forem sendo concluídos. Dessa forma, ao final do ano, todos os artigos são reunidos em um único número. Esse formato garante a circulação do conhecimento de maneira mais fluida acelerando o processo de comunicação das pesquisas.É importante assinalar que nesse tipo de formato já não se utiliza mais a numeração de páginas tradicional, pois todos os artigos tem um identificador eletrônico, denominado elocation-id (electronic location identifier). Trata-se de um identificador único dentro do volume, que permite a correta identificação e citação dos artigos. Ressalte-se que a revista continuará utilizando o identificador de objetos digitais, DOI (Digital Object Identifier), o que que garante a respectiva localização na rede.Além disso, a revista conta este ano com um dossiê especial, elaborado em parceria com a área de “Ensino, Pesquisa e Extensão” da ABRI - Associação Brasileira de Relações Internacionais que contou com o trabalho da equipe de colaboradores bipartite: Tatiana Oliveira (Mural), Marilia Carolina  Souza Pimenta (ABRI), Hermes Moreira Junior (ABRI), Lorena Granja (Mural) e Mauricio Santoro (Mural).Por fim, nesta nova etapa de renovação da Revista Mural Internacional, contamos mais uma vez com a colaboração de nossos prestigiados pareceristas, autores e membros da equipe técnica, sem os quais ela não teria logrado êxito.Hugo R. SuppoLorena GranjaEditores-chefes Mural Internacional