bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Scientific assessments: Matching the process to the problem
Authors: Scholes Robert J. , Schreiner Gregory O. , Snyman-Van der Walt Luanita
Published: March 2017

Background: The science–policy interface process – known as a ‘scientific assessment’ – has risen to prominence in the past few decades. Complex assessments are appropriate for issues which are both technically complicated, multifaceted and of high societal interest. There is increasing interest from the research community that studies biological invasions to undertake such an assessment. Objectives: Providing the relevant background and context, the article describes key principles and steps for designing, planning, resourcing and executing such a process, as well as providing evidence of high-impact assessments enhancing scientific careers. Method: Experience from international and national assessments, most recently the South African scientific assessment for the Shale Gas Development in the Central Karoo, was used to develop this guiding generic template for practitioners. Analyses of researcher publication performances were undertaken to determine the benefit of being involved in assessments. Results: The key success factors for assessments mostly relate to adherence to ‘process’ and ‘governance’ aspects, for which scientists are sometimes ill-equipped. As regards publication outputs, authors involved in assessment processes demonstrated higher H-indices than their environmental scientist peers. We have suggested causal explanations for this. Conclusion: Effectively designed and managed assessments provide the platform for the ‘co-production of knowledge’ – an iterative and collaborative process involving scientists, stakeholders and policymakers. This increases scientific impact in the society–policy domain. While scientists seem concerned that effort directed towards assessments comes at the detriment of scientific credibility and productivity, we have presented data that suggest the opposite.
Motivational values and gendered research performance
Authors: Callaghan Chris W.
Published: March 2017

Orientation: Given theory offered by Kuhn and Lakatos that predicts academic research can be non-innovative, this research sought to test the extent to which the motivational values of highly productive researchers are innovative. Research purpose: The aim of the research was to test theory predicting the structure of motivational values of academics in the South African university context. Motivation for the study: The study was motivated by a lack of knowledge about whether innovative and self-transcendence (the prioritisation of the needs of others) values characterise highly productive researchers. Research design, approach and method: A large South African university was sampled. Multiple linear regression and structural equation modelling techniques were applied. Main findings: Findings indicate that non-innovative and gendered motivational values of security (sensitivity to uncertainty and safety issues) are associated with higher productivity. However, hedonism (self-oriented) and benevolence (self-transcendent) values are both found to be negatively associated with research productivity. Practical/managerial implications: Supporting Kuhn’s perspective, innovative values such as self-direction are not found to be related to research productivity. Contribution/value-add: This study provides evidence in support of theory which predicts that academic research might not be motivated by innovative values.
Franchised fast food brands: An empirical study of factors influencing growth
Authors: Wingrove Christopher A. , Urban Boris
Published: March 2017

Orientation: Franchising is a popular and multifaceted business arrangement that captures a sizeable portion of the restaurant industry worldwide. Research purpose: The study empirically investigated the influence of various site location and branding factors on the growth of franchised fast food restaurant brands across the greater Gauteng region. Motivation of the study: Researching which factors influence the growth of franchised fast food restaurant brands is important for an emerging market context such as South Africa when considering the marked increase in the consumption of fast foods. Design: A sample of 140 customers was surveyed from 12 leading franchised fast food outlets. Primary data were collected for various items representing site location and brand factors. Regression analysis was used to test the hypotheses. Findings: The overall findings showed that convenience and central facilities of a retail location are positively and significantly associated with the growth of the franchise fast food outlet. Practical implications: The study findings have implications for practitioners who need to take into account which factors influence revenue growth, since targeted interventions may be required to implement sustainable strategies by franchisors. Contribution: The findings may serve as a catalyst for this growing and important activity in South Africa and other emerging markets.
Implementation of broad screening with Ebola rapid diagnostic tests in Forécariah, Guinea
Authors: Jean Louis Frantz , Huang Jennifer Y. , Nebie Yacouba K. , Koivogui Lamine , Jayaraman Gayatri , Abiola Nadine , Vansteelandt Amanda , Worrel Mary C. , Shang Judith , Murphy Louise B. , Fitter David L. , Marston Barbara J. , Martel Lise
Published: March 2017

Background: Laboratory-enhanced surveillance is critical for rapidly detecting the potential re-emergence of Ebola virus disease. Rapid diagnostic tests (RDT) for Ebola antigens could expand diagnostic capacity for Ebola virus disease.Objectives: The Guinean National Coordination for Ebola Response conducted a pilot implementation to determine the feasibility of broad screening of patients and corpses with the OraQuick® Ebola RDT.Methods: The implementation team developed protocols and trained healthcare workers to screen patients and corpses in Forécariah prefecture, Guinea, from 15 October to 30 November 2015. Data collected included number of consultations, number of fevers reported or measured, number of tests performed for patients or corpses and results of confirmatory RT-PCR testing. Data on malaria RDT results were collected for comparison. Feedback from Ebola RDT users was collected informally during supervision visits and forums.Results: There were 3738 consultations at the 15 selected healthcare facilities; 74.6% of consultations were for febrile illness. Among 2787 eligible febrile patients, 2633 were tested for malaria and 1628 OraQuick® Ebola RDTs were performed. A total of 322 OraQuick® Ebola RDTs were conducted on corpses. All Ebola tests on eligible patients were negative.Conclusions: Access to Ebola testing was expanded by the implementation of RDTs in an emergency situation. Feedback from Ebola RDT users and lessons learned will contribute to improving quality for RDT expansion.
Exploring cultural intelligence truths: A systematic review
Authors: Solomon Anthony , Steyn Renier
Published: March 2017

Orientation: To identify and report on cultural intelligence truths.Research purpose: To explore cultural intelligence truths by means of a systematic review of the cultural intelligence literature.Motivation for the study: Cultural intelligence truths must be systemised if the business and academic communities are to derive optimal value from the diverse knowledge base.Research design, approach and method: The research was qualitative in nature, comprising a systematic literature review. The period covered was from 01 January 2002 to 31 May 2015. The final number of included studies was 76, representing 48 different journals. Cultural intelligence hypotheses were identified and thematically categorised. Validated hypotheses constituted truths (i.e. truth statements). Key findings are both reported and commented on.Main findings: Cultural intelligence hypotheses may be classified into 13 separate themes plus a ‘not categorised’ group. In total, 60% of the hypotheses on cultural intelligence have given rise to truth statements. Accordingly, there remains some divide between theorised cultural intelligence relationships and how these have played out under empirical investigation.Practical managerial/implications: Business professionals will find it easier to consume the cultural intelligence literature, thereby facilitating their understanding of how best to leverage the knowledge in equipping the workforce to function optimally in cross-cultural interfaces. Scholars will be better positioned to tailor the focus and structure of cultural intelligence studies going forward.Contribution: Cultural intelligence truths have been systematically identified, organised and reported on.
�Visionaries � psychiatric wards are full of them�: Religious terms in management literature
Authors: Kessler Volker
Published: March 2017

Contemporary management literature often makes use of strong religious vocabulary. This article will provide a critical analysis of this practice. It especially analyses the usage of three religious terms in management circles: �vision� � a term omnipresent in leadership literature, �metanoic organisations� � a notion found in books about change management, and �evangelists� � a job title mentioned in job advertisements by companies such as Apple and Microsoft. This phenomenon goes hand in hand with the megatrend �workplace spirituality�, which started in the 1990s. In addition, it can be observed that religious vocabulary has found its way into ordinary current management literature, even if this literature does not show any overt link to spirituality. The article lists some negative side effects of this use, such as confusion of terms, manipulation of people and inappropriate pathos.Intradisciplinary and/or interdisciplinary implications: It is important for both Theology and Management Theory to be critical of the use of religious terms in non-religious contexts.
Control of the optically induced heating of gold nanoparticles
Authors: Palermo Giovanna , Caputo Roberto , De Luca Antonio , Umeton Cesare Paolo
Published: March 2017

Gold nanoparticles (GNPs) have proven to be good nano-sources of heat in the presence of specific electromagnetic radiation. This process, in fact, becomes strongly enhanced under plasmon resonance. In particular, the amount of generated heat and the consequent temperature increase depend on the number of GNPs that are collectively excited and on their relative distance. As a result, the regime of heat localization is deeply controlled by this last parameter. Full Text: PDF ReferencesHutter, E., and Fendler, J. H. "Exploitation of localized surface plasmon resonance". Advanced Materials 16.19, 1685-1706 (2004) CrossRef Liz-Marzán, L. M., Murphy, C. J., & Wang, J. "Nanoplasmonics". Chemical Society Reviews, 43(11), 3820-3822 (2014). CrossRef Maier, S. A. "Plasmonics: fundamentals and applications". Springer Science & Business Media (2007). CrossRef Palpant, B. "Photothermal properties of gold nanoparticles. Gold nanoparticles in physics, chemistry and biology". Imperial College Press, London, (2012). DirectLink Baffou, G. and Quidant R. "Thermo-plasmonics: using metallic nanostructures as nanosources of heat". Laser & Photonics Reviews, 7(2):171?187, (2013). CrossRef Pelton, M., Aizpurua, J., & Bryant, G. "Metal?nanoparticle plasmonics". Laser & Photonics Reviews, 2(3), 136-159 (2008). CrossRef Kreibig, U., & Vollmer, M. "Optical properties of metal clusters" (Vol. 25). Springer Science & Business Media (2013). DirectLink J., Prashant K., S. Eustis, and M. A. El-Sayed. "Plasmon coupling in nanorod assemblies: optical absorption, discrete dipole approximation simulation, and exciton-coupling model." The Journal of Physical Chemistry B 110 (37) 18243-18253 (2006). CrossRef Jain, P. K., & El-Sayed, M. A. "Surface plasmon coupling and its universal size scaling in metal nanostructures of complex geometry: elongated particle pairs and nanosphere trimmers". The Journal of Physical Chemistry C, 112(13), 4954-4960 (2008). CrossRef Chapuis, P. O., Laroche, M., Volz, S., & Greffet, J. J. "Radiative heat transfer between metallic nanoparticles". Applied Physics Letters, 92(20), 201906 (2008). CrossRef Jain, P. K., & El-Sayed, M. A. "Plasmonic coupling in noble metal nanostructures". Chemical Physics Letters, 487(4), 153-164 (2010). CrossRef Cataldi, U., Caputo, R., Kurylyak, Y., Klein, G., Chekini, M. Cesare Umeton, C., Bürgi, T. "Growing gold nanoparticles on a flexible substrate to enable simple mechanical control of their plasmonic coupling". J. Mater. Chem. C, 2, 7927-7933 (2014). CrossRef
Magneto-optic ellipsometry characterization of Co and SmCo thin films
Authors: Tkachenko Volodymyr , Abbate Giancarlo , Marino Antigone
Published: March 2017

Magneto-optic ellipsometry in the longitudinal Kerr configuration was performed to determine the complex permittivity tensor of the Co and SmCo thin films within the spectral range from 400nm to 1000nm. The Co film was a middle layer in a Au/Co/Au trilayer structure. Magneto-optical response was analyzed in terms of Mueller matrix elements. Reduced magneto-optical response of the Co layer is explained by influence of the gold top layer of the trilayer structure. Full Text: PDF ReferencesM. Mansuripur, The Physical Principles of Magneto Optical Recording (Cambridge, Cambridge University Press, 1995). CrossRef B. Sepúlveda, A. Calle, L.M. Lechuga, G. Armelles, "Highly sensitive detection of biomolecules with the magneto-optic surface-plasmon-resonance sensor", Opt. Lett. 31, 1085 (2006). CrossRef D. Regatos et al., "Au/Fe/Au multilayer transducers for magneto-optic surface plasmon resonance sensing", J.Appl.Phys. 108, 054502 (2010). CrossRef D. Regatos, B. Sepúlveda, D. Farina, L.G. Carrascosa, L.M. Lechuga, "Suitable combination of noble/ferromagnetic metal multilayers for enhanced magneto-plasmonic biosensing", Opt. Express 19, 8336 (2011). CrossRef G. Armelle et al., "Localized surface plasmon resonance effects on the magneto-optical activity of continuous Au/Co/Au trilayers", Opt. Express 16, 16104 (2008). CrossRef C. Hermann, "Surface-enhanced magneto-optics in metallic multilayer films", Phys. Rev. B 64, 235422 (2001). CrossRef J. B. González-Díaz et al., "Surface-magnetoplasmon nonreciprocity effects in noble-metal/ferromagnetic heterostructures", Phys. Rev. B 76, 153402 (2007). CrossRef V. V. Temnov et al., "Active magneto-plasmonics in hybrid metal?ferromagnet structures", Nat. Photonics 4(2), 107 (2010). CrossRef A. Berger, M. R. Pufall, "Generalized magneto-optical ellipsometry", Appl. Phys. Lett. 71, 965 (1997). CrossRef R. Rauer, G. Neuber, J. Kunze, J. Backstrom, M. Rubhausen, "Temperature-dependent spectral generalized magneto-optical ellipsometry for ferromagnetic compounds", Rev. Sci. Instrum. 76, 023910 (2005). CrossRef K. Mok, N. Du, H. Schmidt, "Vector-magneto-optical generalized ellipsometry", Rev. Sci. Instrum. 82, 033112 (2011). CrossRef W.A. McGahan, J.A. Woollam, "Magnetooptics of multilayer systems", Appl. Phys. Commun. 9, 1 (1989).D.P. Kumah et al., "Optimizing the planar structure of (1 1 1) Au/Co/Au trilayers", J. Phys. D: Appl. Phys. 40, 2699 (2007). CrossRef L. Alocca et al., "Laser deposition of SmCo thin film and coating on different substrates", Phys. Scr. 78, 058114 (2008). CrossRef H.G. Tompkins, E.A. Irene, Handbook of Ellipsometry (Norwich, William Andrew, 2005). CrossRef G. Abbate et al., "Optical characterization of liquid crystals by combined ellipsometry and half-leaky-guided-mode spectroscopy in the visible-near infrared range", J. Appl. Phys. 101, 073105 (2007). CrossRef Y.V. Knyazev, M.N. Noskov, "OPTICAL PROPERTIES OF GADOLINIUM, SAMARIUM, AND DYSPROSIUM IN THE SPECTRAL RANGE 1.13 TO 3.96 eV.", Phys. Met. Metallogr. 30, 230 (1970).
Somatosensory Discrimination Intervention Improves Body Position Sense and Motor Performance in Children With Hemiplegic Cerebral Palsy
Authors: McLean Belinda , Taylor Susan , Blair Eve , Valentine Jane , Carey Leeanne , Elliott Catherine
Published: March 2017

OBJECTIVE. This study examined the use of the adult neuroscience-based Sense© intervention with children with hemiplegic cerebral palsy (HCP) to improve upper-limb somatosensory discrimination, motor function, and goal performance.

METHOD. Seventeen children with HCP (9 boys, 8 girls; mean age = 10.2 yr) participated in this pilot matched-pairs trial with random allocation and 6-mo follow-up (intervention, n = 7; control, n = 10). The intervention group received Sense training 3×/wk for 6 wk (18 hr). Outcome measures included Goal Attainment Scaling, Sense_assess© Kids, and the Assisting Hand Assessment.

RESULTS. The intervention group improved in goal performance, proprioception, and bimanual hand use and maintained improvement at 6-mo follow-up. The control group improved in occupational performance by 6-mo follow-up.

CONCLUSION. This study established the feasibility of using the Sense intervention in a pediatric setting and adds preliminary evidence to suggest that improving somatosensory function can improve motor function and goal performance among children with HCP.
Estimation of aerosol complex refractive indices for both fine and coarse modes simultaneously based on AERONET remote sensing products
Authors: Zhang Ying , Li Zhengqiang , Zhang Yuhuan , Li Donghui , Qie Lili , Che Huizheng , Xu Hua
Published: March 2017

Abstract. Climate change assessment, especially model evaluation, needs to know complex refractive indices (CRI) of atmospheric aerosols, separately for both fine and coarse modes. However, the widely used aerosol CRI obtained by the global Aerosol Robotic Network (AERONET), correspond to total-column aerosol particles without separation for fine and coarse modes. This paper establishes a method to separate CRIs of fine and coarse particles based on AERONET aerosol products, including volume particle size distribution (VPSD), aerosol optical depth (AOD) and absorbing AOD. The method consists of VPSD breaking-down and sub-mode CRI separation parts and yields spectral CRIs for both fine and coarse modes simultaneously. Numerical experiment shows good performance for typical water-soluble, biomass burning and dust aerosol types and the estimated uncertainties on the retrieved sub-mode CRIs are about 0.11 (real part) and 78 % (imaginary part), respectively. One year measurements at AERONET Beijing site are processed and we obtain CRIs of 1.48-0.010i (imaginary part at 440 nm is 0.012) for fine mode particles and 1.49-0.004i (imaginary part at 440 nm is 0.007) for coarse mode particles, for the period of 2014–2015. Our results also suggest that both aerosol fine and coarse mode CRIs have distinct seasonal characteristics, particularly CRIs of fine particles in winter season are significantly higher than summer, due to possible anthropogenic influences.
The Indian summer monsoon climate during the Last Millennium, as simulated by the
PMIP3
Authors: Tejavath Charan Teja , Karumuri Ashok , Chakraborty Supriyo , Ramesh Rengasamy
Published: March 2017

Abstract. In this study, using the available model simulations from the PMIP3, we study the mean summer (June–September; JJAS) climate and its variability in India during the Last Millennium (CE 850–1849; LM) for which conventional observations are unavailable, with emphasis on the Medieval Warm Period (MWP; CE 1000–1199 as against the CE 950–AD1350 from the proxy-observations) and Little Ice Age (LIA; CE 1550–1749 as against the CE 1500–1850 proxy observations. Out of the eight available models, by validating the corresponding simulated global and Indian mean summer temperatures and mean Indian summer monsoon rainfall (ISMR), and their respective trends, from historical simulations (CMIP5) against the various observed/reanalysed datasets for the 1901–2005 period. From this exercise, we identify seven realistic models. The models simulate higher (lower) mean summer temperatures in India as well as globally during the MWP (LIA) as compared to the corresponding LM statistics, in conformation with several proxy studies. Our Analysis shows a strong negative correlation between the NINO3.4 index and the ISMR and a positive correlation between NINO3.4 and summer temperature over India during the LM, as is observed in the last one-and-half centuries. The magnitude of the simulated ISMR-NINO3.4 index correlations, as seen from the multi-model mean, is found to be higher for the MWP (−0.19; significant at 95 % confidence level) as compared to that for the LIA (−0.09; insignificant). Our analysis also shows that the above (below) LM-mean summer temperatures during the MWP (LIA) are associated with relatively more (less) number of concurrent El Niños as compared to the La Niñas. Distribution of boreal summer velocity potential at 850 hPa in the central tropical pacific and a zone of anomalous convergence in the central tropical pacific, flanked by two zones of divergence in the equatorial pacific, suggesting a westward shift in Walker circulation as compared to the current day signal. The anomalous divergence centre in the west also extends into the equatorial eastern Indian Ocean, which results in an anomalous convergence zone over India and therefore excess rainfall during the MWP as compared to the LM. The results are qualitative, given the inter-model spread.
Pesticide Knowledge, Attitudes, and Clothing Practices of Turkish Farmers
Authors: Derafshi Mercan , Black Catherine , Agnew Robert
Published: March 2017

The purpose of this study was to assess Turkish farmers’ knowledge, attitudes, and clothing practices during pesticide activities. Seventy male farmers from seven districts of the Aegean region of Turkey were interviewed. Farmers indicated a high level of knowledge of adverse health effects associated with pesticides. In contrast to their level of knowledge, over 50% of the farmers had the attitude that pesticides would not be harmful to them. The type of clothing most often worn further supported the farmers’ attitudes: T-shirts or long-sleeve shirts, denim pants, leather shoes, or sandals, all of which provide little protection. Therefore, farmers’ knowledge on the harmful effects of pesticides did not correlate with their clothing practices. Additionally, farmers’ attitudes and clothing practices were inconsistent with each other. A weak but significant correlation between attitudes and clothing practices with a negative direction also supported this. Furthermore, participant farmers indicated bringing contaminated clothing inside the home and laundering contaminated work clothes with regular family clothes, potentially exposing family members by take-home contamination. These findings suggest that the development of training programs to reduce pesticide exposure would benefit Turkish farmers.
The Multi-level Homologous Logic and Prospective Research Concept on the Effects of Creativity and Ambidextrous Leadership on Innovative Performance
Authors: Piórkowska Katarzyna
Published: March 2017

The aim of the paper is to develop a conceptual research framework with regard to the relationships between creativity, ambidextrous leadership and innovative performance incorporating a multi-level homologous perspective. The aim has been achieved through critical extensive literature studies. The overarching key finding is that the effects of creativity and ambidextrous leadership on innovative performance may be examined within a multi-level homologous approach illustrating the associations among creativity, creative performance, and organizational performance at the individual, team, and organizational performance. The first section presents a general overview of the creativity phenomenon, namely creativity conceptualization as well as antecedents and effects at individual, team, and organizational level. The creativity with regard to ambidextrous leadership has been highlighted in the second section. Then, creativity, ambidextrous leadership and innovative performance in terms of a multi-level homologous research concept (specifically, a model, propositions, and measurement tools proposed) have been illustrated in the third section. Final remarks and research directions have been posed in the last section.
Plasmapheresis, Intravenous Immunoglobulins, and Autologous Serum Eyedrops in the Acute Eye Complications of Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis
Authors: Pinna Antonio , Nuvoli Eleonora , Blasetti Francesco , Posadinu Maria Alma , Boscia Francesco
Published: March 2017

Purpose

Toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) is a rare, life-threatening, drug-induced, mucocutaneous disease, which can severely affect the ocular surface. The purpose of this study was to investigate the efficacy of plasmapheresis, human IV immunoglobulins (IVIg), and autologous serum (AS) eyedrops in the treatment of the severe acute ocular complications of TEN.

Methods

A retrospective chart review of all patients admitted to the Burn Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria-Sassari, Sassari, Italy, from 2009 to 2015, identified 9 patients (2 men, 7 women; mean age 63.8 ± 24.7 years) with TEN. Bilateral, acute ocular surface complications were observed in 7 (78%) patients; 3 showed catarrhal conjunctivitis, whereas 4 had severe pseudomembranous conjunctivitis and corneal ulcers.

Results

All patients with TEN were immediately treated with plasmapheresis and human IVIg, which produced a marked improvement in the patients’ general condition. In the 3 with catarrhal conjunctivitis, preservative-free artificial tears and topical antibiotics were beneficial. In the 4 with severe pseudomembranous conjunctivitis and corneal ulcers, treatment with AS eyedrops resulted in corneal and conjunctival epithelium healing over 3-6 weeks. After a minimum follow-up of at least 12 months, there were minimal/mild residual signs and symptoms of dry eye.

Conclusions

Plasmapheresis and IVIg may be life-saving and contribute to reduce ocular surface inflammation in TEN. Autologous serum eyedrops, prepared after plasmapheresis completion and IVIg infusion, may be helpful in the management of the severe acute ocular complications of TEN.
Co-Microencapsulation of BMSCs and Mouse Pancreatic (3 Cells for Improving the Efficacy of Type I Diabetes Therapy
Authors: Long Ruimin , Liu Yuangang , Wang Shibin , Ye Li , He Peng
Published: March 2017

Introduction

To overcome the shortcomings of pancreas transplantation and insulin injection treatment for type I diabetes, biocompatible materials were used to prepare alginate-chitosan-alginate microcapsules that co-encapsulated bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells and mouse pancreatic β cells to treat diabetic mice.

Methods

Blank alginate-chitosan-alginate (ACA) microcapsules and co-microencapsulated cells were prepared using a high-voltage electrostatic method and then characterized using an inverted microscope. Cell viability was evaluated using AO/EB staining. ELISA kit was used to detect insulin secretion. Peri-orbital blood samples were obtained from the mice for blood glucose determination every week for one month.

Results

After 28 days of in vitro culture, the secretion of insulin following co-microencapsulation was higher than that observed for microencapsulated beta-TC-6 cells alone. On the 28th day after transplantation, the blood glucose level was 6.86 mmol/L in the microencapsulated beta-TC-6 group. On the 14th day, the blood glucose level was 6.80 mmol/L in the co-microencapsulated BMSC/beta-TC-6 group, which was close to the normal blood glucose level of healthy mice. These results indicated that the efficacy in reducing blood glucose was better in the co-microencapsulated BMSC/beta-TC-6 group.

Conclusions

This primary study indicated that combining microencapsulation technology and co-culture of stem cells and somatic cells shows promise for the treatment of type I diabetes mellitus.
Optimizing the Fluidized Bed Bioreactor as an External Bioartificial Liver
Authors: Figaro Sarah , Pereira Ulysse , Rada Hiram , Semenzato Nicolas , Pouchoulin Dominique , Paullier Patrick , Dufresne Murielle , Legallais Cécile
Published: March 2017

Background

Our team previously designed and validated a new bioartificial liver (BAL) called Suppliver based on a Prismaflex™ device, including fluidized bed bioreactors hosting alginate-encapsulated hepatocytes. To ensure correct fluidization within the bioreactor, the beads need to become heavier with the addition of inert glass microspheres.

Methods

In this study, we assessed the impact of this additional component on the bead production process, bed fluidization, mass transfer and the mechanical properties of the beads, as well as cell viability and basic metabolic function.

Results

A concentration of 20 mg (1% v/v) of microspheres for 15–20 million cells per milliliter of alginate solution appears to be the best configuration. The filling ratio for the beads in the bioreactors can reach 60%. Four 250-mL bioreactors represent approximately 15% of the hepatocytes in a liver, which is a reasonable target for extracorporeal liver supply.

Conclusions

Increasing bead density clearly maintained the performances of the fluidized bed with plasma of different compositions, without any risk of release out of the bioreactor. A 1% (v/v)-concentration of microspheres in alginate solution did not result in any alteration of the mechanical or biological behavior. This concentration can thus be applied to the production of large-scale encapsulated biomass for further use of the Suppliver setup in human scale preclinical studies.
Transformation of the peripheral intravenous catheter placement experience in pediatrics
Authors: Kelly Steven , Russell Jean , Devgon Pitamber , Rosen Paul
Published: March 2017

Background

“Needle pokes” are the most frequent cause of pain encountered by pediatric patients in the hospital setting. Poor control of pain during needle pokes leads to short- and long-term adverse outcomes for both patients and hospitals. J-Tips are a needle-free injection system that use pressurized gas to inject lidocaine in a fine stream of fluid that penetrates the skin. This study undertook an evaluation of their effectiveness at decreasing the pain of the needle poke that takes place with IV insertion.

Methods

Participation was limited to patients between the ages of 3 and 16 who received an IV during a 3-week period at an academic pediatric hospital. Furthermore, patients requiring more than one attempt to place the IV were not included. Participants were recruited within 24 hours after having received their IV. The 10-point, Wong-Baker Faces Pain Rating Scale was the tool used to collect pain scores. Patients were recruited to the study by convenience sampling.

Results

Pain scores were collected from 85 patients. There were 41 patients who received needle-free injected lidocaine prior to IV insertion. There were 44 patients who received an IV without previous lidocaine injection. Mean pain scores for the two groups were 2.45 for the patients who received the needle-free injected lidocaine and 5.8 for the patients who did not (p value <0.001).

Conclusions

Results were consistent with the hypothesis that needle-free injection of lidocaine is an effective therapy for the management of pain in children between the ages of 3-16 years who receive an IV.
Gadolinium Contrast Agents - Are they Really Safe?
Authors: Malikova Hana , Holesta Michal
Published: March 2017

Gadolinium-based contrast agents (GBCA) are used worldwide for enhanced MRI examinations, including heart and vessels. Gadolinium is a highly toxic heavy metal. If used in GBCA it must be tightly bound to ligands. The configuration of ligands influences the stability of the GBCA and two types of chelates have been used. Macrocyclic chelates offer better protection and binding of gadolinium ion than linear chelates with a flexible open chain - gadolinium could be more easily released from the latter ones. GBCAs are excreted from the body mostly by the kidneys, which is of importance in chronic kidney disease.

Two states are related to gadolinium: nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF) and gadolinium body storage. NSF is a severe and debilitating disease, directly connected to gadolinium toxicity, proven after the use of linear chelates. Due to strict recommendations of radiology societies, NSF was practically eradicated. Gadolinium deposition was observed especially in bones and in some brain areas: in dentate nucleus and in globus pallidus, even years after the GBCA administration. The form of the storage (chelated or free), as well as their clinical impact, are not clear, but first observations of “gadolinium deposition disease” have been reported.
Earlier Patient Access – the UK Early Access to Medicines Scheme (EAMS)
Authors: O'Connor Daniel J. , McDonald Keith , Lam Siu Ping
Published: March 2017

The Early Access to Medicines Scheme (EAMS) was launched in the UK in April 2014 following a public consultation and government response, which outlined the scope of a potential scheme. The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) is responsible for two pivotal milestone decisions in the EAMS process: the Promising Innovative Medicine (PIM) designation and the EAMS scientific opinion, described in an EAMS public assessment report and 3 EAMS treatment protocols. In the 3 years since its launch, hundreds of patients with life-threatening or seriously debilitating conditions have benefited from EAMS medicines in a variety of mainly oncology indications. This editorial describes some of the achievements of the scheme over the past 3 years and provides insight into how the scheme may evolve over the coming years.
As Limitações impostas pelo Princípio da Legalidade ao Poder Regulamentar do Conselho de Controle de Atividades Financeiras (COAF)
Authors: Oliveira Bruno Queiroz
Published: March 2017

O presente artigo aborda os limites do poder regulamentar do Conselho de Controle de Atividades Financeiras (Coaf), na perspectiva do princípio da legalidade como premissa fundamental do estado democrático de direito. O objetivo da pesquisa consiste em analisar o teor de alguns dispositivos das resoluções emanadas do Coaf, para verificar sua adequação às limitações decorrentes do princípio da legalidade. Analisa-se o poder regulamentar no âmbito do Poder Executivo e as atribuições do Coaf como unidade de inteligência financeira responsável pelo combate à lavagem de dinheiro no Brasil. Por fim, conclui-se pela necessidade de melhor adequação do teor das resoluções emanadas do Coaf aos princípios constitucionais do estado democrático de direito.
Os pilares da liderança e o modelo situacional: a influência do líder na formação de equipes de alta performance e nos resultados
Authors: Marins Márcio , Martins Paula Elisângela , Pasqual Cássia Aparecida
Published: March 2017

Este artigo tem o objetivo identificar os modelos de liderança utilizados pelas empresas General Sports Ltda. e General Surf Ltda., com base na Teoria da Liderança Situacional e nos Quatro Pilares da Liderança, e também de estabelecer um comparativo entre os efeitos desses modelos, para, por fim, analisar o impacto de como distintas formas de liderança podem influenciar nos resultados organizacionais e no desempenho de suas equipes. Para isso, a metodologia utilizada foi um estudo de caso dividido em três etapas: a observação direta e enquadramento do modelo de liderança aplicado por cada um dos gestores de vendas das empresas na Teoria da Liderança Situacional, a análise documental sobre os resultados financeiros e os índices de turnover das suas equipes e, finalmente, o comparativo entre
as empresas para ambos os indicadores. Como resultados principais, pode-se constatar que o modelo de liderança tradicional, baseado no modelo de comando e controle, foi responsável pelo aumento no índice de rotatividade e pela redução nos resultados financeiros da General Sports Ltda. Em contrapartida, verificou-se que práticas de liderança voltadas ao compartilhamento do conhecimento e à delegação das atividades, adotadas pela gestão da General Surf Ltda., possibilitaram aumento no desempenho organizacional e individual.
Palavras-chave: Liderança Situacional. Quatro Pilares da Liderança. Equipes de alto desempenho.
Desafios gerenciais do cooperativismo: fidelização versus competitividade
Authors: Breitenbach Raquel , Brandão Janaína Balk , Nogueira Marcelo
Published: March 2017

O objetivo deste trabalho foi analisar o nível de satisfação dos associados acerca dos condicionantes de competitividade da Cooperativa Agrícola X bem como compreender a percepção dos associados em relação à gestão da cooperativa, verificando suas políticas de atuação e os sistemas de fidelização do associado. A pesquisa envolveu entrevistas com uma amostra de 414 associados. Como resultados, destaca-se um bom nível de satisfação dos associados quanto aos serviços e produtos ofertados pela organização. Destacam-se como pontos com menor índice de satisfação dos associados: flexibilidade e rapidez em atender pedidos não programados, ações de preservação ao meio ambiente, reposição de perdas e serviços do departamento técnico e financeiro.
Palavras-chave: Cooperativa agrícola. Competitividade. Satisfação dos associados.
ESTUDO DAS ANOMALIAS CROMOSSÔMICAS OCORRIDAS EM UMA MATERNIDADE NOS ANOS DE 2010 A 2014
Authors: Fantin Cleiton , Santos Marcelo Lasmar , Carvalho Lilian Barroso , Gomes Natanael Martins , Souza Larissa Nascimento , Sousa Gabriela Bentes
Published: March 2017

O presente estudo buscou identificar a existência de anomalias cromossômicas registradas nos prontuários de nascidos vivos em uma maternidade. Estudo retrospectivo que analisou as informações contidas nos prontuários dos arquivos do Serviço de Arquivamento Médico de uma maternidade do estado do Amazonas entre janeiro de 2010 e dezembro de 2014, e estudou-se a correlação de anomalias cromossômicas presentes com características maternas e do nascido vivo. Analisou-se 15.621 prontuários, destes 163 apresentaram defeitos congênitos, 15 foram diagnosticados com síndromes cromossômicas distribuídas em três tipos de anomalias: 13 indivíduos com Síndrome de Down, um com Síndrome de Patau e um com Síndrome de Dany-Walker. Este é o primeiro registro de ocorrência e perfil dos nascimentos com anomalias cromossômicas em uma maternidade. O resultado é de grande importância para a saúde pública do Estado. A realização de novos estudos poderá fornecer um melhor panorama sobre diferentes doenças genéticas daquele estado.
Environmental Geochemistry of Mine Tailings Soils in the Artisanal Gold Mining District of Betare -Oya, Cameroon
Authors: Manga Veronica Ebot , Neba Gladys Nchang , Suh Emmanuel Cheo
Published: March 2017

Changes in trace element concentrations in mine tailings (dry and wet) were investigated in the gold mining area of Bétaré-Oya, Eastern Cameroon. Forty-one surface sediment samples were analyzed using ICP-MS for heavy metals and pollution was assessed using Enrichment Ratio and Geo Accumulation Index (Igeo); using a sample from a remote area as control.Trace elements in mine tailings show significant increase compared to the background (control) values, with the exception of Sr and Nb. It is suggested that allochtonous deposition may account for Sr distribution. A strong correlation is observed between the lithophile elements; Y, Nb, Ce, La, and Pb. Their association with each other is also strong, i.e. Nb/Ce (.73) and La/Ce (.63). The close association of these elements in the samples may be an indication of the effect of resistant heavy minerals from felsic rocks (mainly granites and gneisses). Cu, Zn, Sr and Ba distribution is associated with mineralisation of sulphide-bearing minerals and clay formation from weathering of mica schist. Cu, Zn, As, W, Mo and Ag have been identified as potential pollutants. Compared to the Dutch soil quality guidelines, these elements are above the target values and below the intervention levels. Arsenic is considered to be the most threatening element, with regards to its potency. The distribution of As in this area appears to be controlled by mining activities.
Reviewer Acknowledgements for Journal of Food Research, Vol. 6 No. 2
Authors: Dong Bella
Published: March 2017

Journal of Food Research wishes to acknowledge the following individuals for their assistance with peer review of manuscripts for this issue. Their help and contributions in maintaining the quality of the journal are greatly appreciated.Journal of Food Research is recruiting reviewers for the journal. If you are interested in becoming a reviewer, we welcome you to join us. Please find the application form and details at http://recruitment.ccsenet.org and e-mail the completed application form to jfr@ccsenet.org.Reviewers for Volume 6, Number 2Antonello Santini, University of Napoli "Federico II", ItalyBernardo Pace, Institute of Science of Food Production (ISPA), National Research Council (CNR), ItalyElsa M Goncalves, Instituto Nacional de Investigacao Agrária (INIA), PortugalFernanda Papa Spada, University of São Paulo, BrazilFrancesca Danesi, University of Bologna, ItalyJasdeep Saini, WTI (world Technology Ingredients), Inc., United StatesLuis Patarata, Universidade de Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, PortugalMarta Mesias, Spanish National Research Council, SpainMarwa Ibrahim Abd El Hamid, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University, Egypt.Nicola Caporaso, University of Naples Federico II, ItalyPalmiro poltronieri, National Research Council of Italy, ItalyPhilippa Chinyere Ojimelukwe, Michael Okpara University of Agriculture Umudike, NigeriaQinlu Lin, Central South University of Forestry and Technology, ChinaRaza Hussain, School of Dietetics and Human Nutrition, McGill University, CanadaSefat E Khuda, US Food and Drug Administration, United StatesTzortzis Nomikos, Harokopio University, GreeceVasudha Bansal, Center of Innovative and Applied Bioprocessing (CIAB), IndiaVioleta Ivanova-Petropulos, University "Goce Delcev" - Stip, Republic of MacedoniaWon Choi, University of Hawaii at Manoa, United States
Planning for Development of Favorable District for the Elderlies; Case Study: Kerman Arg District
Authors: Vazirizadeh Hashem , Shieh Ismaeil
Published: March 2017

By increase of age group of people older than 60 years and problems of aging period, it seems necessary to provide favorable environmental conditions in order to increase life expectancy of this group. One of the public spaces which had been much underlined in traditional urban development and has double importance for the elderly and receives less attention today is the district. This paper, aiming at planning urban districts tailored to the needs of the elderly, provides required criteria in district planning through descriptive-analytical method. Finally, by offering components of: familiarity, readability, dignity, accessibility, convenience, security and beautification in the district planning process of Kerman Arg district, these components are applied.
An Analysis of the Social Profile of 15 to 17 Year Old Students in Ecuador Regarding Secondary School Attendance and Truancy
Authors: Williams Goodrich Lisa Gaye , Castellano José Manuel , Stefos Efstathios
Published: March 2017

The objective of this study is to examine the factors influencing school attendance among the secondary school population between the ages of 15 and 17 in Ecuador, by means of a descriptive and multidimensional analysis of statistical data principally from the 2015 National Survey of Employment, Unemployment and Underemployment of Ecuador (ENEMDU). The descriptive analysis demonstrates the frequency and percentages of the variables used in the investigation, while comparing the social characteristics of student attendees and absentees in this age group. This descriptive analysis was conducted in order to provide a more enlightening profile of attendance and truancy regarding this sector of the student population whereas the method of multidimensional statistical analysis used was the hierarchical analysis which classifies the students in clusters according to their common traits.
RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS IN IAS
Authors: Kreft Marko
Published: March 2017

We are reviewing and commenting highlights of the research published in Image Analysis and Stereology journal (IAS), volume 35, where 16 original research papers on image analysis, computer vision, modelling, and other approaches were published. We have reported on the precision of curve length estimation in the plane. Further, a focus was on a robust estimation technique for 3D point cloud registration. Next contribution in computer vision was on the accuracy of stereo matching algorithm based on illumination control. An attempt was also made to automatically diagnose prenatal cleft lip with representative key points and identify the type of defect in three-dimensional ultrasonography. Similarly, a new report is presenting estimation of torsion of digital curves in 3D images and next, the nuchal translucency by ultrasound is being analyzed. Also in ophthalmology, image analysis may help physicians to establish a correct diagnosis, which is supported by a new approach to measure tortuosity of retinal vessel. Another report of medical significance analyzed correlation of the shape parameters for characterization of images of corneal endothelium cells. Shape analysis is also an important topic in material science, e.g. in analyzing fine aggregates in concrete. As in concrete, in fiber reinforced composites image analysis may aid in improved quality, where the direction of fibers have decisive impact on properties. Automatic defect detection using a computer vision system improves productivity quality in industrial production, hence we report of a new Haar wavelet-based approach.
New perspectives in nectar evolution and ecology: simple alimentary reward or a complex multiorganism interaction?
Authors: Nepi Massimo
Published: March 2017

Floral and extra-floral nectars are secretions elaborated by specific organs (nectaries) that can be associated with plant reproductive structures (the so-called floral nectaries found only in angiosperms) or vegetative parts (extrafloral nectaries). These secretions are common in terrestrial vascular plants, especially angiosperms. Although gymnosperms do not seem to have true nectar, their ovular secretions may share evolutionary links with angiosperm nectar. Nectar is generally involved in interactions with animals and by virtue of its sugar and amino acid content, it has been considered a reward offered by plants to animals in exchange for benefits, mainly pollination and indirect defense against herbivores. These relationships are often cited as examples of classical mutualistic interactions. Nonetheless, recent studies dealing with compounds less abundant than sugars and amino acids challenge this view and suggest that nectar is much more complex than simply a reward in the form of food. Nectar proteins (nectarins) and nectar secondary compounds have no primary nutritious function but are involved in plant–animal relationships in other ways. Nectarins protect against proliferation of microorganisms and infection of plant tissues by pathogens. Nectar secondary compounds can be involved in modulating the behavior of nectar feeders, maximizing benefits for the plant. Nectar-dwelling microorganisms (mainly yeasts) were recently revealed to be a third partner in the scenario of plant–animal interactions mediated by nectar. There is evidence that yeast has a remarkable impact on nectar feeder behavior, although the effects on plant fitness have not yet been clearly assessed.