bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High resolution genetic mapping of causal regulatory interactions in the human genome
Authors: Kumasaka Natsuhiko , Knights Andrew , Gaffney Daniel
Published: December 2017

Physical interaction of distal regulatory elements in three-dimensional space poses a significant challenge for studies of common disease, because noncoding risk variants may be substantial distances from the genes they regulate. Experimental methods to capture these interactions, such as chromosome conformation capture (CCC), usually cannot assign causal direction of effect between regulatory elements, an important component of disease fine-mapping. Here, we developed a statistical model that uses Mendelian Randomisation within a Bayesian hierarchical model framework, and applied it to a novel ATAC-seq data from 100 individuals mapping over 15,000 putatively causal interactions between distal regions of open chromatin. Strikingly, the majority (>60%) of interactions we detected were over distances of <20Kb, a range where CCC-based methods perform poorly. Because we can infer the direction of causal interactions, the model also significantly improves our ability to fine-map: when we applied it to an eQTL data set we reduced the number of variants in the 90% credible set size by half. We experimentally validate one of our associations using CRISPR engineering of the BLK/FAM167A locus, which is associated with risk for a range of autoimmune diseases and show that the causal variant is likely to be a non-coding insertion within a CTCF binding motif. Our study suggests that many regulatory variants will be challenging to map to their cognate genes using CCC-based techniques, but association genetics of chromatin state can provide a powerful complement to these approaches.
Mating, Spore Dissection, and Selection of Diploid Cells in Schizosaccharomyces japonicus
Authors: Furuya Kanji , Niki Hironori
Published: December 2017

Haploid yeast cells mate to form heterozygotes and subsequently undergo meiosis to form spores. This process can be used to produce gene combinations and variants that are useful for genetic analysis. For example, these spores can be used to generate double mutants or to measure genetic distances in a mutational analysis. Here, we describe mating and spore dissection procedures for Schizosaccharomyces japonicus cells. Although the overall procedures resemble those used in Schizosaccharomyces pombe, some differences exist, including the use of EMM2 medium without nitrogen (EMM-N) for mating and the shorter incubation time of 16–20 h for S. japonicus cells. Furthermore, the S. japonicus zygotes produce eight spores and thus require an “octad” analysis.
High-Throughput Deep Sequencing for Mapping Mammalian DNA Methylation
Authors: Lizardi Paul M. , Yan Qin , Wajapeyee Narendra
Published: December 2017

This protocol describes methylation mapping analysis by paired-end sequencing (Methyl-MAPS). In addition to the sequence information, paired-end sequencing provides information about the physical distance between the two reads in the genome. Methyl-MAPS typically samples ~80% of the CpG dinucleotides in the genome and is also able to report the methylation status of individual genomic loci harboring repetitive elements. This is achieved by enzymatic fractionation of the genome into methylated and unmethylated compartments. Because the method avoids the use of bisulfite modification, DNA fragments of relatively large size are preserved, permitting the generation of paired-end libraries with DNA inserts of known size in the ranges of 0.8–1.5, 1.5–3, and 3–6 kb. The paired-end configurations can be uniquely mapped to the genome in most instances, because the paired reads will span most repetitive element sequences.
Homosexual managers and the homosexual impregnation policy
Authors: Caldwell Geoffrey Mark
Published: December 2017

The homosexual community has undoubtedly been assuming senior managerial positions of authority within government for generations, Clinard (1968). However, homosexuals are now moving more publicly, rather than surreptitiously into the echelons of managerial roles within the bureaucracy, (Clinard, 1968, Barker & Allen,, 1976, Wofford, 1993). This research suggests that this homosexual openness has in some cases created an environmental despotism where the homosexual managerial minority may openly and selectively discriminate towards their fraternal association and specifically against the heterosexual majority. Is there now the means, for homosexual managers to impose retribution for the chronicled persecution of homosexuals by heterosexuals? If so, could this retribution be leading to homosexual managers replicating the ideologies of the “old boys’ club” by creating their separatist “guys’ club”. Would this sex-oriented preference discrimination resemble a somewhat disturbing paradox: Discrimination defined by sex inclination and such discrimination which ironically was associated with the powerful heterosexual males, and which they mysteriously fought vigorously and actively against?
Performance budgeting: Descriptive, allegorical, mythical, and idealistic
Authors: Herzog Richard J.
Published: December 2017

The descriptions of performance budgeting, based on theory and practice, allow for the application of Dante’s allegory in The Divine Comedy. This allegory places performance budgeting into the spiritual domains of heaven, hell, and purgatory. These domains are used to frame the theoretical foundations of performance budgeting and to discuss a match with operational reality. Performance budgeting practices often fall between heaven, the optimal use of public revenues, and hell, the worst use of public revenues. It can be argued that most performance budgeting efforts tend to congregate in purgatory. Realizing purgatory allows for the recognition of principles that form the basis for performance budgeting to be classified as institutional myth. As institutional myth, the practice of performance budgeting is blocked from theoretical idealism.
The longitudinal influence of narcissism in the team context
Authors: Felty Ryan , Whitaker Brian G. , Bergman Shawn M. , Bergman Jacqueline Z.
Published: December 2017

The current study integrates self-enhancement and social exchange theories to construct hypotheses in which team-level narcissism is expected to negatively influence team-level task performance ratings and team-level organizational citizenship behaviors directed at team members (OCB-Is). Additionally, individual-level narcissism is expected to negatively influence peer performance ratings. Based on longitudinal data collected from 89 study participants constituting 29 project teams, results indicate (a) team-level narcissism influences task performance, (b) team-level narcissism influences changes in OCB-Is over time, and (c) individual-level narcissism influences peer performance ratings. Our findings suggest the necessity for practitioners to consider individual differences in the strategic formation of work groups.
Political institutional environment and management culture as determinants of nongovernmental/nonprofit organizationsʼ performance
Authors: Senses-Ozyurt Saba
Published: December 2017

This study evaluates the effects of political institutional environment and management culture on the performance of nongovernmental/nonprofit organizations (NGOs/NPOs). Through narrative analysis of in-depth interviews conducted with the founders and directors of six Muslim womenʼs organizations (MWOs) in the United States and the Netherlands, the paper explores how these organizationsʼ relationship with the state, and the ethnic resources and management culture affect their performance. The findings indicate that when performance is evaluated as goal attainment, MWOs perform satisfactorily. However, when performance is assessed using financial sustainability or social image dimensions the results were mixed. Overall, the findings confirm that political institutional environment has significant impact on NGO/NPO performance, and that ethnic culture play a role in how MWOs are managed.
Applying farmerʼs lenses: Two illustrations
Authors: Barth Tom
Published: December 2017

This article reflects on how Farmerʼs writing on the use of multiple lenses informs two writing projects, one on values-based decision making and the other on lessons from intensive community engagement activities. Farmerʼs use of the business, ethical, critical theory and feminist lenses are found to be particularly relevant and useful to these writing projects, providing a deeper understanding of organizational theory and practice than reliance on any single lens.
Narratives of participatory governance: Social science and democracy in mark bevirʼs a theory of governance
Authors: Ron Amit
Published: December 2017

Mark Bevirʼs A Theory of Governance proposes a Copernican revolution in the way we understand the role of social science in public administration. Conventional accounts assign social science the role of instructing public administrators how to steer its machinery towards the public interest, based on social scienceʼs alleged ability to explain how people act and what they need. Bevir offers a vision of public administration in which ordinary people take a leading role by engaging in dialogues in which they articulate their needs. In this vision, the role of social science is to facilitate those public dialogues. This essay offers a sympathetic critical evaluation of Bevirʼs exploration of what it means to understand social science as a facilitator.
Importance of local initiative in targeting of federal aid: the case of udags
Authors: Watson Douglas J.
Published: December 2017

Much of the literature on targeting of federal grants to the most needy local governments concentrates on the explanations of population and need. The author proposes that a third explanation, the aggressiveness and competence of city staffs, should receive attention from scholars also. The last major categorical grant program aimed at distressed urban areas, the Urban Development Action Grant program, is examined to find evidence of differences in the rates of submitting applications and successfully receiving funding among the eligible large cities. In a competitive grants program, federal targeting success will be limited because it is dependent on the initiative and capability of local officials to apply.
The opportunity cost of defense inputs
Authors: Hildebrandt Gregory G.
Published: December 2017

This article analyzes the difference between the budgetary expense and the opportunity cost of defense inputs. If inputs are obtained by the government from a market economy with undistorted prices, the price paid for the last unit of each input acquired equals the opportunity cost. However, taxes create a distortion between opportunity cost and unit price. An additional complication, discussed using the case of military personnel, is that premarginal units may have an opportunity cost lower than the unit price determined at the margin. Principles used to determine the social discount rate are also discussed in the analysis.
Waste not want not: school finance reform and educational equity in new jersey
Authors: Firestone William A. , Goertz Margaret E.
Published: December 2017

School finance reform is contentious. Critics charge that funds states provide to poor districts are wasted on salary increases, administrative featherbedding, and reduction of local property taxes. This paper analyzes the results of New Jersey's most recent school finance reform. The findings show that (a) little money was spent on property tax relief, (b) the salary gap between rich and poor districts remained, and (c) the proportion of staff that were administrators was comparable in both rich and poor districts. Thus, funds were not wasted, and a number of useful expenditures were made. However, after three years of reform, rich districts still spent more and had more staff.
Ethical issues facing private, not-for-profit hospitals in the u.s.: the case of the methodist hospital system
Authors: Blankley Alan , Forgione Dana
Published: December 2017

Pressures to contain costs have given private hospitals the economic incentive to reduce provision of charity care services, shifting the burden onto governmental hospitals. Budget pressures on governmental units have produced resistance to any further shift in the charity care burden. We observe in a lawsuit (State of Texas vs. The Methodist Hospital) what appears to be a classic moral hazard situation. The government expects a certain (unspecified) level of charity care to be performed in exchange for tax exemption; hospital management allegedly consumes perquisites and overstates reported charity care figures. Both sides use accounting numbers to defend their positions.
Implications of the privatization of sallie mae
Authors: Dean John E. , Moskowitz Saul L. , Cipriani Karen L.
Published: December 2017

In 1997, Congress enacted legislation to transition the Student Loan Marketing Association (Sallie Mae) from status as a government-sponsored enterprise (GSE) to a fully-private, non-federally chartered organization. The process through which this legislation was enacted will have precedential value for future legislation affecting other GSEs.

This article reviews the unique context in which the Sallie Mae Privatization Act was considered and enacted. Sallie Mae was an active participant in the development of the privatization legislation, and Congress had little precedent in considering the diverse interests of stakeholders such as other entities involved in student loans, taxpayers, and Sallie Mae shareholders. Full assessment of the 1997 legislation requires a review of how the “privatizing” of Sallie Mae changes the student loan marketplace.
Benchmarking as a performance management tool: experiences among municipalities in North Carolina
Authors: Ammons David N.
Published: December 2017

Benchmarking takes three distinct forms in the public sector, each serving a different purpose. When applied properly and with care, benchmarking is a performance improvement technique that can yield tangible results, as demonstrated by the North Carolina cities of Greensboro, Wilmington, and Winston-Salem.
Estimating animal density without individual recognition using information derivable exclusively from camera traps
Authors: Nakashima Yoshihiro , Fukasawa Keita , Samejima Hiromitsu
Published: November 2017

Efficient and reliable methods for estimating animal density are essential to wildlife conservation and management. Camera trapping is an increasingly popular tool in this area of wildlife research, with further potential arising from technological improvements, such as video‐recording functions that allow for behavioural observation of animals. This information may be useful in the estimation of animal density, even without individual recognition. Although several models applicable to species lacking individual markings (i.e. unmarked populations) have been developed, a methodology incorporating behavioural information from videos has not yet been established.

We developed a likelihood‐based model: the random encounter and staying time (REST) model. It is an extension of the random encounter model by Rowcliffe et al. (J Appl Ecol 45:1228, 2008). The REST model describes the relationship among staying time, trapping rate, and density, which is estimable using a frequentist or Bayesian approach. We tested the reliability and feasibility of the REST model using Monte Carlo simulations. We also applied the approach in the African rainforest and compared the results with those of a line‐transect survey.

The simulations showed that the REST model provided unbiased estimates of animal density. Even when animal movement speeds varied among individuals, and when animals travelled in pairs, the model provided unbiased density estimates. However, the REST model was vulnerable to unsynchronized activity patterns among individuals. Moreover, it is necessary to use a camera model with a fast and reliable infrared sensor and to set the camera trap's parameters appropriately (i.e. video length, delay period). The field survey showed that the staying time of two ungulate species in the African rainforest exhibited good fit with a temporal parametric distribution, and the REST model provided density estimates consistent with those of a line‐transect survey.

Synthesis and applications. The random encounter and staying time model provides better efficiency and higher feasibility than the random encounter model in estimating animal density without individual recognition. Careful application of the random encounter and staying time model provides the potential to estimate density of many ground‐dwelling vertebrates lacking individually recognizable markings, and thus should be an effective method for population monitoring.
Psychotic (delusional) depression and suicidal attempts: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Gournellis R. , Tournikioti K. , Touloumi G. , Thomadakis C. , Michalopoulou P. G. , Christodoulou C. , Papadopoulou A. , Douzenis A.
Published: November 2017

Objective

It still remains unclear whether psychotic features increase the risk of suicidal attempts in major depressive disorder. Thus, we attempted, through a systematic review coupled with a meta‐analysis, to elucidate further whether unipolar psychotic depression (PMD) compared to non‐PMD presents higher levels of suicidal attempts.

Method

A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, EMBASE, PsycINFO as well as in various databases of the so‐called gray literature for all studies providing data on suicidal attempts in PMD compared to non‐PMD, and the results were then subjected to meta‐analysis.

Results

Twenty studies met our inclusion criteria, including in total 1,275 PMD patients and 5,761 non‐PMD patients. An elevated risk for suicide attempt for PMD compared to non‐PMD patients was found: The total (lifetime) fixed‐effects pooled OR was 2.11 (95% CI: 1.81–2.47), and the fixed‐effects pooled OR of the five studies of the acute phase of the disorder was 1.93 (95% CI: 1.33–2.80). This elevated risk of suicidal attempt for PMD patients remained stable across all age groups of adult patients.

Conclusion

Despite data inconsistency and clinical heterogeneity, this systematic review and meta‐analysis showed that patients with PMD are at a two‐fold higher risk, both during lifetime and in acute phase, of committing a suicidal attempt than patients with non‐PMD.
Innovation and Firm‐Level Productivity: Evidence from Bangladesh
Authors: Waheed Abdul
Published: December 2017

In this paper, the labor productivity impact of manufacturing firms’ innovation in Bangladesh, a region which has, to date, been understudied in this respect, is examined through World Bank Enterprise Survey data from 2003 to 2006. We apply the Cobb–Douglas production function, augmented with innovation‐related inputs (and other expected sources of productivity) in a simultaneous three‐equation system connecting R&D to its determinants, innovation output to R&D, and productivity to innovation output; and in a two‐equation system connecting innovation output to its determinants and productivity to innovation output. Our results reveal that Bangladeshi firms’ process innovation is an important factor for their labor productivity, whereas the significant effect of product innovation is not clearly established.
Multimodality imaging of a pulmonary artery sarcoma
Authors: Yeung Darwin F. , Johnston Angela , Simmons Christine , Goddard Karen , Dewar Leith R. , Yee John , Kelliher Edel , Tsang Michael Y. C. , Gin Kenneth , Jue John , Nair Parvathy , Lee Pui‐Kee , Tsang Teresa S. M.
Published: November 2017

Pulmonary artery sarcoma is a rare malignant neoplasm. Here, we describe a patient with a pulmonary artery sarcoma, which was only subtly visible and therefore not fully appreciated on initial transthoracic echocardiogram. Characterization of the tumor was aided by the use of multimodality imaging that included computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, and positron emission tomography. Familiarity with its appearance on multiple imaging modalities including echocardiography is important to ensure timely diagnosis, although the optimal treatment strategy is still unknown, and the prognosis remains poor.
Prominent pulmonary venous flow mimicking mitral regurgitation
Authors: Srialluri Swetha , Arisha Mohammed J. , Abdelhaleem Ahmed , Farhoud Adel A. , Mahmoud Mohamed S. , Salama Ahmed Y. , Ibeche Bashar , Battisha Ayman , Nanda Navin C.
Published: November 2017

The present case highlights a potential pitfall in assessing mitral regurgitation severity due to the presence of similar colored prominent pulmonary vein signals in the left atrium during color Doppler examination.
Do we overestimate left ventricular ejection fraction by two‐dimensional echocardiography in patients with left bundle branch block?
Authors: Cabuk Ali K. , Cabuk Gizem , Sayin Ahmet , Karamanlioglu Murat , Kilicaslan Barış , Ekmekci Cenk , Solmaz Hatice , Aslanturk Omer F. , Ozdogan Oner
Published: November 2017

Aims

Left bundle branch block (LBBB) causes a dyssynchronized contraction of left ventricle. This is a kind of regional wall‐motion abnormality and measuring left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) by two‐dimensional (2D) echocardiography could be less reliable in this particular condition. Our aim was to evaluate the role of dyssynchrony index (SDI), measured by three‐dimensional (3D) echocardiography, in assessment of LVEF and left ventricular volumes accurately in patients with LBBB.

Methods and Results

In this case–control study, we included 52 of 64 enrolled participants (twelve participants with poor image quality were excluded) with LBBB and normal LVEF or nonischemic cardiomyopathy. Left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and left ventricular volumes were assessed by 2D (modified Simpson's rule) and 3D (four beats full volume analysis) echocardiography and the impact of SDI on results were evaluated. In patients with SDI ≥6%, LVEF measurements were significantly different (46.00% [29.50–52.50] vs 37.60% [24.70–45.15], P < .001) between 2D and 3D echocardiography, respectively. In patients with SDI < 6%, there were no significant differences between two modalities in terms of LVEF measurements (54.50% [49.00–59.00] vs 54.25% [40.00–58.25], P = .193). LV diastolic volumes were not significantly different while systolic volumes were underestimated by 2D echocardiography, and this finding was more pronounced when SDI ≥ 6%.

Conclusion

In patients with LBBB and high SDI (≥6%), LVEF values were overestimated and systolic volumes were underestimated by 2D echocardiography compared to 3D echocardiography.
Spontaneous left atrial echo contrast, mitral annular systolic velocity, and left atrial appendage late emptying velocity in predicting improvement of left atrial function after percutaneous balloon mitral valvuloplasty
Authors: Arava Tirumala Naresh , Durgaprasad Rajasekhar , Velam Vanajakshamma , Gajjala Obul Reddy , Neelam Vinod K. , Manohar Suchitra N.
Published: November 2017

Background

Thromboembolic events are the major cause of morbidity and mortality in patients with mitral stenosis (MS). This study aims to investigate left atrial spontaneous echo contrast (LA SEC), mitral annular systolic velocity (Sa‐wave), left atrial appendage (LAA) late emptying velocity (LAAEV), LAA filling velocity (LAAFV) pre‐ and postpercutaneous balloon mitral valvuloplasty (PBMV) for MS. This also aims to study the association of LA SEC with inflammatory marker, high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein (hs‐CRP) in MS.

Methods

The study population consisted of 100 patients with symptomatic MS with sinus rhythm who underwent PBMV. Transthoracic echo (TTE), tissue Doppler imaging (TDI), and transesophageal echo (TEE) examinations were carried out before and 14 days following PBMV. High‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein (hs‐CRP) was measured at the time of admission.

Results

The mean age was 33.2 ± 10.3 years with female preponderance (71%). There was a decrease in SEC grading, (pre‐PBMV 2.8 ± 0.9 and post‐PBMV 0.4 ± 0.1; P < .01), increase in LAAEV (pre‐PBMV 23.0 ± 7.9 cm/s and post‐PBMV 40.9 ± 8.4 cm/s; P < .01), and LAAFV (pre‐PBMV 31.8 ± 9.3 cm/s and post‐PBMV 51.2 ± 8.7 cm/s; P < .01).A significant positive correlation was present between LAAEV and Sa‐wave (r = .52, P < .01). Correlation between hs‐CRP and SEC was positive and significant (r = .33, P < .01). Optimal cutoff value of hs‐CRP for prediction of moderate to dense SEC was >2.3 mg/dL, the cutoff value of Sa‐wave was≤ 5.5 cm/s for prediction of the presence of inactive LAA (LAAEV < 25 cm/s).

Conclusion

Mitral annular systolic velocity (Sa‐wave) is an independent predictor of inactive LAA and a useful parameter in estimating inactive LAA in MS. Sa‐wave and hs‐CRP are independent predictors for SEC. PBMV improves LAA function in patients with MS.
Three‐dimensional echocardiography to evaluate right atrial volume and phasic function in pulmonary hypertension
Authors: Meng Xiangli , Li Yidan , Li Hong , Lv Xiuzhang
Published: November 2017

Objective

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) impairs right ventricular (RV) systolic and diastolic function, which in turn induces compensatory changes in right atrial (RA) function; the diverse effects on RA function are subject to much debate. We hypothesized that RA function plays a more important role in compensating RV dysfunction, than mere prevention of clinical failure in patients with PH.

Methods

We studied 54 patients with PH and 23 healthy controls. RA volume, including maximum RA volume, minimum RA volume, and the volume before atrial systole, was evaluated by 3DE. RA maximum volume index (VmaxI), total emptying volume index (TotEVI), passive emptying volume index (PassEVI), and active ejection fraction (ActEF) were calculated. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis was used to determine the sensitivity and specificity of various cutoff levels of the variables measured for predicting World Health Organization functional class (WHO‐FC) IV in patients with PH.

Results

RAVmaxI in patients with PH was higher than that in controls. In patients with PH, the TotEVI was significantly higher, while PassEVI was significantly lower as compared to that in controls. ActEF was increased in patients with WHO functional class (WHO‐FC) III PH as compared to that in controls (P = .003) but was reduced in more advanced cases (WHO‐FC IV). In addition, the area under the curve of 3D RA ActEF was larger than those of 2D RA ActEF, RA GLS, RA area, FAC, TAPSE, and RIMP (P < .01 for all) for predicting WHO‐FC IV.

Conclusion

We demonstrated that RA function plays a more important role in compensating RV dysfunction then mere prevention of clinical failure in PH.
Perforated giant mycotic aneurysm of mitral valve in a drug‐addicted young man: Rare complication of infective endocarditis
Authors: Lavanco Vincenzo , Curzi Mirko , Giustiniano Enrico , Raspante Donatella , Di Lisi Daniela , Bragato Renato Maria
Published: November 2017

Infective endocarditis (IE) affects patients at high clinical risk and may present as an acute and rapidly progressive, subacute or chronic infection. Transthoracic and transesophageal echocardiography represent the key diagnostic method in IE diagnosis. In particular, three‐dimensional transesophageal echocardiography represents the imaging technique that allows to establish with adequate accuracy dimensions, shape, and localization of endocarditis vegetations. In our case, we show a huge vermiform mycotic aneurysm in an immunodeficient young drug‐addicted man with severe mitral valve regurgitation and the additive value of three‐dimensional transesophageal echocardiography in this specific clinical setting.
Two aortic valves in the parasternal long‐axis view: Aortic dissection or artifact?
Authors: Ayan Mohammed , Vallurupalli Srikanth
Published: November 2017

Refraction artifact produced the appearance of two aortic valves in the parasternal long axis view. Aortic dissection was ruled out by CT angiography.
Characterization of endophytic bacteria with plant growth promotion and biological control potential isolated from walnut trees
Authors: Ghorbani S. , Harighi B.
Published: November 2017

In this study, a total of 68 endophytic bacteria were isolated from different tissues of walnut trees. About 55% and 22% of the strains had the ability to produce indole acetic acid and gibberellic acid, respectively. The capability of isolates to solubilize phosphate, growth on N‐free medium, siderophore, protease and lipase production was varied. Based on phenotypic grouping and plant growth promotion properties, twelve isolates were selected and 16S rRNA gene‐based phylogenetic analysis revealed that strains showed 99%–100% similarity to Pseudomonas, Bacillus, Arthrobacter, Roseomonas and Streptomyces genera. Amongst the selected strains, PS12, KS54, JS66 and KS74 showed root and shoot growth enhancement of poplar cutting. NS70, KS54 and PL36 strains showed antagonistic activity against Pseudomonas syringae pv. syringae;RR47, KS74 and NR69 strains had inhibition effects against Brenneria nigrifluens; and JS66 and RR26 strains had antagonistic activity against both phytopathogens under in vitro conditions. This is the first reported study to elucidate the endophytic bacterial diversity associated with walnut trees with beneficial attributes.
MONETARY POLICY UNCERTAINTY AND ECONOMIC FLUCTUATIONS
Authors: Creal Drew D. , Wu Jing Cynthia
Published: December 2017

We investigate the relationship between uncertainty about monetary policy and its transmission mechanism, and economic fluctuations. We propose a new term structure model where the second moments of macroeconomic variables and yields can have a first‐order effect on their dynamics. The data favor a model with two unspanned volatility factors that capture uncertainty about monetary policy and the term premium. Uncertainty contributes negatively to economic activity. Two dimensions of uncertainty react in opposite directions to a shock to the real economy, and the response of inflation to uncertainty shocks varies across different historical episodes.
MONOPOLY INSURANCE AND ENDOGENOUS INFORMATION
Authors: Lagerlöf Johan N. M. , Schottmüller Christoph
Published: December 2017

We study a monopoly insurance model with endogenous information acquisition. Through a continuous effort choice, consumers can determine the precision of a privately observed signal that is informative about their accident risk. The equilibrium effort is, depending on parameter values, either zero (implying symmetric information) or positive (implying privately informed consumers). Regardless of the nature of the equilibrium, all offered contracts, also at the top, involve underinsurance, which discourages information gathering. We identify a missorting effect that explains why the insurer wants to discourage information acquisition. Moreover, lower information gathering costs can hurt both consumer and insurer.
Labour Market Disadvantages of Second‐Generation Turks and Moroccans in the Netherlands: Before and during the Great Recession
Authors: Witteveen Dirk , Alba Richard
Published: December 2017

This study uses two waves of panel data to examine the labour market integration of children of Moroccan and Turkish immigrants in the Netherlands. The data show a persisting educational attainment gap in terms of high school completion and post‐secondary attendance. The analyses of prime working‐age respondents indicate substantial ethnic penalties that accrue from the hiring process: controlling for educational background and demographics, the youngest cohort of the second generation is less likely to have employment than the native Dutch. We improve on earlier research on ethnic penalties in the Dutch labour market by including measures of precarious work – the chance of avoiding of non‐contracted work – and by comparing minorities’ standing in a pre‐recession (2009) and a peak‐recession (2013) labour market. The results indicate increasing employment disadvantages for both second‐generation groups at a time of labour surplus.
Starting Out on a Judicial Career: Gender Diversity and the Appointment of Recorders, Circuit Judges, and Deputy High Court Judges, 1996–2016
Authors: Blackwell Michael
Published: December 2017

This article is a quantitative study of those who are appointed Recorders and Circuit Judges, and who are authorized or appointed as Deputy High Court Judges. It considers the period 1996–2016, being the twenty years that straddle either side of the creation of the Judicial Appointments Commission (JAC). A key focus is the gender diversity of these appointments and how this has changed over time, including whether the transfer of appointments to the JAC has made a difference to gender diversity or whether increases in the proportions of female judges are attributable solely to a changing demographic among the pool of lawyers from which such judges tend to be appointed. Who are appointed to these positions is significant both because of the importance of the positions themselves, but also because they comprise the pool from which, as a practical reality, the Senior Judiciary is appointed.
A Novel Approach for Reconstruction of Finger Neurocutaneous Defect: A Sensory Reverse Dorsal Digital Artery Flap from the Neighboring Digit
Authors: Feng Shi‐ming , Sun Qing‐qing , Cheng Jian , Wang Ai‐guo
Published: December 2017

Objective

Providing soft tissue coverage for finger neurocutaneous defects presents aesthetic and sensory challenges. A common source for reconstruction of soft tissue defects of the fingers is the same finger. However, when the donor areas are damaged by concomitant injuries, this option is not available. The present study aims to reconstruct finger neurocutaneous defects using a sensory reverse dorsal digital artery flap from the neighboring digit and to evaluate the efficacy of this technique.

Methods

The study included 16 patients, with an average age of 34.9 years (range, 20–53 years) at the time of surgery, from May 2010 to June 2013. The sensory reverse dorsal digital artery flap was used in all 16 patients, who had a combination of soft tissue and digital nerve defects. The mean size of the soft tissue defects was 3.1 cm × 2.0 cm, and the mean flap size was 3.3 cm × 2.2 cm. The length of the nerve defects ranged from 1.3 to 2.5 cm (mean, 2.0 cm), which were reconstructed with dorsal branches of the proper digital nerve transfer. The active motion of the fingers (injured and donor) and the flap sensibility (static two‐point discrimination) were measured. The appearance and functional recovery of the injured finger and the donor site were assessed using the Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire.

Results

All flaps survived completely. No complications were reported, and no further flap debulking procedure was required. At the mean follow‐up period of 24 months (range, 18–30 months), the mean static two‐point discrimination was 6.5 mm (range, 5–10 mm) of the reconstructed area; the mean ranges of motions of the injured finger and the opposite finger at the proximal interphalangeal and distal interphalangeal joints were 102.2° and 103.5°, and 70.3° and 76.5°, respectively. The average ranges of motions of the metacarpophalangeal and proximal interphalangeal joints of the donor fingers were 90° and 103.4°, respectively. Based on the Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire, 10 patients were strongly satisfied and 6 were satisfied with the functional recovery of the injured finger; however, 13 patients were strongly satisfied and 3 were satisfied with the appearance of the injured finger.

Conclusion

The sensory reverse dorsal digital artery flap from the neighboring digit, based on the dorsal branch of the digital artery, is an effective and additional option for finger neurocutaneous defect reconstruction when use of the local and regional flaps is not feasible.
Spatial and temporal geochemical variability in lacustrine sedimentation in the East African Rift System: Evidence from the Kenya Rift and regional analyses
Authors: Owen Richard Bernhart , Renaut Robin W. , Lowenstein Tim K.
Published: December 2017

Many previous studies on lacustrine basins in the East African Rift System have directed their attention to climatic controls on contemporary sedimentation or climate change as part of palaeoenvironmental reconstruction. In contrast, this research focuses on the impact of tectonism and volcanism on rift deposition and develops models that help to explain their roles and relative importance. The study focuses on the spatial and temporal variability in bulk sediment geochemistry from a diverse range of modern and ancient rift sediments through an analysis of 519 samples and 50 major and trace elements. The basins examined variously include, or have contained, wetlands and/or shallow to deep, fresh to hypersaline lakes. Substantial spatial variability is documented for Holocene to modern deposits in lakes Turkana, Baringo, Bogoria, Magadi and Malawi. Mio‐Pleistocene sediments in the Central Kenya Rift and Quaternary deposits of the southern Kenya Rift illustrate temporal variability. Tectonic and volcanic controls on geochemical variability are explained in terms of: (i) primary controlling factors (faulting, subsidence, uplift, volcanism, magma evolution and antecedent lithologies and landscapes); (ii) secondary controls (bedrock types, rift shoulder and axis elevations, accommodation space, meteoric and hydrothermal fluids and mantle CO2); and (iii) response factors (catchment area size, orographic rains, rain shadows, vegetation densities, erosion and weathering rates, and spring/runoff ratios). The models developed have, in turn, important implications for palaeoenvironmental interpretation in other depositional basins.
Reflections on the Limitations Imposed by the Zimbabwean State's Essentialist Interpretation of Ethnicity, Nationality, and Identity on Yvonne Vera's Representation of Human Rights in The Stone Virgins
Authors: Mafu Lucas
Published: December 2017

Yvonne Vera's novel The Stone Virgins (2002) stands out as a courageous text that questions the Zimbabwean state's use of violence and an ethnically exclusivist nationalist ideology in its pursuit of a one‐party state objective between 1982 and 1987. This article argues that subtle intimidation through the articulation of a violent postcolonial nationalist discourse and the state's deployment of a military unit and other instruments of coercion might have forced Vera into self‐censorship in her representation of the ‘Gukurahundi’ atrocities in the provinces dominated by the ethnic Ndebele minority. Furthermore, the discursive limitations imposed by the dominant ideology of paternalist Shona nationalism, the need to avoid persecution by the state, and to narrativize the national memory of a painful and emotive history, compromised her objectivity in the representation of culpability for the genocide.
Computed tomographic characteristics of pneumolabyrinth in a French bulldog with otitis media and externa
Authors: Belmudes Audrey , Couturier Jérôme , Gory Guillaume , Cauvin Eddy , Condamin Guillaume , Rabillard Michael , Rault Delphine
Published: December 2017

A four‐year‐old female French bulldog was presented for evaluation of acute, left‐sided peripheral vestibular syndrome. Computed tomographic (CT) examination of the head revealed the presence of air within the left cochlea and vestibule, consistent with pneumolabyrinth. This was concurrent with ipsilateral otitis media and externa. Pneumolabyrinth is an uncommon finding in humans and is most frequently due to head trauma and temporal bone fracture. This is the first report describing pneumolabyrinth in a dog, apparently of nontraumatic origin in this case.
Marshallese English: A first sketch
Authors: BUCHSTALLER ISABELLE , WILLSON NIKOLAS DANE
Published: December 2017

This article provides a first sketch of Marshallese English, a variety which developed through contact between speakers of English and the Marshallese language. Our objectives are two‐pronged: (i) we attempt to position the varieties of English spoken in the Marshall Islands with regard to Kachru's Three Circles model of world Englishes; and (ii) we provide a first linguistic sketch of Marshallese English. Both of these aims have obvious applications for language policy and the development of educational resources and benchmarks.
Media, Biotechnology, and Trust: What Drives Citizens to Support Biotechnology
Authors: Wang Zuoming
Published: December 2017

This paper explores the relationship among ideology, media science news use, and three different types of trust (trust in government, trust in science, and trust in regulative institute), as well as their direct and indirect impact on the support of agricultural biotechnology and the support of regulation on genetic modified organisms (GMO). A structural model showed that the public are slightly leaning toward the use of biotechnology; meanwhile they overwhelmingly request the control on GMO. Level of education directly promoted all three types of trusts and had a positive effect on the support of biotechnology and the support of regulation on GMO. Media science news use has both a direct and an indirect positive effect (through trust in scientific process) on support of biotechnology. Among the three different types of trusts, trust on government did not have significant effects on public attitude toward biotechnology. Trust in regulative institutes, associated with more control on GMO, decreased the public’s support of biotechnology. Meanwhile, trust in scientific process directly bolstered public’s support of biotechnology.
Síndrome de Kartagener: reporte de un caso y revisión de la literatura
Authors: Gutiérrez Zuñiga Daniela , Solarte Bothe Daniel , Celis Preciado Carlos
Published: December 2017

El síndrome de Kartagener es una enfermedad autosómica recesiva poco frecuente (uno de cada 32.000 nacimientos), caracterizada por la tríada de bronquiectasias, sinusitis crónica y situs inversus. El artículo presenta el caso de un hombre de veinticuatro años de edad con dicha enfermedad, a partir del cual se revisa su fisiopatología, las estrategias diagnósticas y terapéuticas y su pronóstico.
Bioética clínica al lado del enfermo. Creación y experiencia de un servicio de ética clínica en un hospital universitario
Authors: Gempeler Rueda Fritz Eduardo , Silva Herrera José Miguel , Torregrosa Almonacid Lilian
Published: December 2017

En este artículo se describe la creación de un servicio de ética clínica en un hospital universitario de alta complejidad en Bogotá, Colombia, y se analizan los resultados obtenidos durante sus dos primeros años de funcionamiento.
Guía de práctica clínica para el tratamiento de la diabetes mellitus tipo 2: manejo inicial
Authors: Aschner Montoya Pablo , Muñoz Velandía Oscar Mauricio , Girón Cardozo Diana Marcela , García Morales Olga Milena , Fernández Ávila Daniel Gerardo , Casas Luz Ángela , Bohórquez Villamizar Luisa Fernanda , Arango Toro Clara María , Carvajal Gutiérrez Liliana , Ramírez De Peña Doris Amanda , Sarmiento Ramón Juan Guillermo , Colón Cristian Alejandro , Correa González Nestor Fabian , Alarcón Robles Pilar , Bustamante Álvaro Andrés
Published: December 2017

Resumen
Introducción: En la actualidad es ampliamente aceptada la metformina como manejo farmacológico inicial para el tratamiento de la diabetes mellitus tipo 2 (DMT2). Resulta, sin embargo, controversial si en algunos tipos de pacientes puede iniciarse tratamiento únicamente con cambios intensivos de estilo de vida o si existen grupos en quienes debería iniciarse desde el inicio terapia farmacológica combinada. Objetivo: Definir el impacto de estrategias de cambio intensivo en la dieta y de ejercicio, así como de la terapia farmacológica con metformina asociada a un segundo antidiabético oral como estrategias de manejo inicial en pacientes con DMT2 recién diagnosticada. Métodos: Se elaboró la guía de práctica clínica, siguiendo los lineamientos de la guía metodológica del Ministerio de Salud y Protección Social colombiano. Se revisó la evidencia disponible de forma sistemática y se formularon las recomendaciones utilizando la metodología GRADE. Conclusiones: En pacientes con DMT2 recién diagnosticada no se recomienda el manejo únicamente con cambios intensivos del estilo de vida; estos deben acompañar el manejo farmacológico con metformina, dando prelación a los componentes de la dieta mediterránea y al ejercicio aeróbico. En los pacientes con DMT2 recién diagnosticada y niveles de HbA1C > 8 % se recomienda utilizar terapia combinada desde el inicio con metformina y otro antidiabético oral, siendo de primera elección los inhibidores de DPP-4.
Palabras clave: diabetes mellitus tipo 2, metformina, tratamiento primario, guías de práctica clínica. 
Distrofia muscular de Duchenne: reportes de caso
Authors: Guapi Nauñay Victor Hugo , García Orbe Jorge Renán
Published: December 2017

La distrofia muscular de Duchenne es una enfermedad muscular grave ligada al cromosoma X que afecta el gen que codifica la distrofina, proteína fundamental para el mantenimiento de la fibra muscular. Se caracteriza por debilidad muscular de inicio en la infancia que sigue un curso progresivo. Sin intervención alguna, los pacientes pierden la marcha antes de la adolescencia y el fallecimiento ocurre en la segunda década de la vida por complicaciones respiratorias o problemas cardiacos. Actualmente no existe tratamiento curativo, pero la terapia con corticoides y el manejo multidisciplinario y ortopédico modifican la historia natural de esta miopatía. En este artículo se presentan dos casos clínicos de niños que presentaron dificultad para realizar actividades físicas vigorosas. Se les diagnosticó distrofia muscular de Duchenne confirmada por creatina-fosfocinasa y electromiografía, con mejoría del cuadro clínico, gracias al tratamiento instaurado.

 

 
Novel Reassortant H3N2 Avian Influenza Virus Isolated from Domestic Ducks in Eastern China in 2016
Authors: Sun Wenqiang , Li Jiaxin , Hu Jiao , Jiang Daxiu , Ge Zhichuang , Xing Chaonan , Wang Xiaoquan , Gu Min , Liu Xiaowen , Hu Shunlin , Liu Xiufan
Published: December 2017

H3 subtype avian influenza virus (AIV) poses a great threat to public health, and so investigating its epidemiology is of great importance. A novel reassortant H3N2 AIV strain was isolated from a live poultry market in eastern China. The strain’s genes originated from H1N1, H3, and H7 AIVs. Thus, the genome information of the H3N2 isolate will help to investigate further the epidemiology of H3 subtype AIVs in China.