bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Demand side integration for electric transport vehicles
Authors: Schmidt Johannes , Lauven Lars-Peter , Ihle Norman , Kolbe Lutz M.
Published: October 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this study is to examine both the technical feasibility and the commercial viability of several demand-side integration (DSI) programs to utilize the charging flexibility of electric transport vehicles in a logistic facility. DSI is important for improving system reliability and assisting in integrating renewables into the energy system.

Design/methodology/approach

– A pre-assessment of several DSI programs is performed by considering effort for implementation, costs and economic potential. Afterward, the most promising programs are compared economically on the basis of optimization methods and economic analysis. The analysis is based on a comprehensive electric mobility project dealing with electric transport vehicles operating in container terminals.

Findings

– The pre-assessment of several potential DSI programs revealed that many of these programs are unsuitable, largely due to regulatory requirements. Although using DSI to optimize the company’s load is feasible, controlled charging based on variable prices is particularly advantageous because the implementation requires modest effort while identifying significant cost-saving potentials.

Practical implications

– Based on the analysis, other companies using electric transport vehicles have a foundation for identifying the most promising demand-side management program.

Originality/value

– While most research has focused on individually used electric vehicles, here commercial electric transport vehicles operating in closed systems were investigated as this area of application was found to be particularly suitable for participation in DSI programs.
Structural equation modelling of energy consumption in buildings
Authors: Motawa Ibrahim , Oladokun Michael G.
Published: October 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to analyse the complex interrelationships among thedifferent variables purporting to explain household energy consumption and carbon emissions. Energy consumption and carbon emissions in dwellings have been argued to be a complex socio-technical problem that involves interaction of many variables that are interdependent on one another.

Design/methodology/approach

– The paper investigates the explanatory power of these variables through the use of structural equation modelling which has the advantage of handling complex real-life problems that cannot be modelled by other multivariate analysis methods. This study uses the publicly available datasets of the Scottish House Condition Survey and the Scottish Environmental Attitudes and Behaviours datasets.

Findings

– This paper found that floor area, energy efficiency in terms of standard assessment procedure value, number of occupants in the dwelling, household income, dwelling age, consumption behaviour and age of householders are among the variables explaining dwellings energy consumption and carbon emissions. The explanatory power of each of these variables was therefore explored.

Originality/value

– The paper concludes that understanding the complex–causal relationships among the explanatory variables would help decision-makers draw more realistic policies for household energy consumption which is critical to the agenda pertaining to carbon emission.
Student use of Facebook for informal learning and peer support
Authors: Garcia Elaine , Elbeltagi Ibrahim M. , Dungay Kerry , Hardaker Glenn
Published: October 2015

Purpose

– As the use of social networking and social media technologies (SNT) has become pandemic amongst young people (Tess, 2013; Falahah and Rosmala, 2012) there has been an increasing drive amongst educators and researchers to explore the ways in which SNT may be utilised within the classroom (Junco, 2012). Whilst there is therefore an increasing amount of literature available in relation to the use of SNT within the classroom it does not appear that there has been sufficient research considering the manner in which SNT results in the development of a complex, invisible and organic social network amongst students. When these networks exist outside of the classroom they may allow informal learning and peer support to occur. The purpose of this paper is to investigate these issues. Additionally this paper seeks to determine if the use of Facebook by students may provide an indication of the likelihood of student success on their course.

Design/methodology/approach

– This paper utilises an empirical approach to explore the nature of these invisible networks and the degree to which the use of SNT by students outside of the classroom may provide support for student learning in relation to informal learning and social interaction. This study explores the use of Facebook through the use of a case study of one cohort of 90 creative arts students who undertook a one-year Foundation in Art and Design course within a specialist arts college in the UK. This research utilises the technique of social network analysis (SNA) in order to visualise the type of interactions that occur within the online network and the strength of these interactions (Dawson, 2008).

Findings

– Results demonstrate that within this case study the creative arts student group created a complex and interrelated network of connections through Facebook with some students clearly placed at the centre of the network and others on the periphery. It is also demonstrated that those students who are more central within the network are more likely to remain on the course and achieve their qualification.

Originality/value

– This paper demonstrates that SNA provides a useful and insightful way in which to visualise what would otherwise be an invisible network of connections made by students outside of the classroom. Furthermore this paper will provide an insight for teachers and researchers into the benefits of the use of SNT within education, which will have practical implications for the future use of SNT in teaching and learning.
Organizing for “wicked problems” – analyzing coordination arrangements in two policy areas
Authors: Lagreid Per , Rykkja Lise H.
Published: October 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to address the question of coordination by comparing two recent reforms schemes in Norway: internal security and the welfare administration. Both concern typically transboundary “wicked” policy problems where horizontal and vertical coordination is difficult. What kind of coordination problems did the reforms address, what kind of coordination solutions were provided, and what can explain the observed pattern?

Design/methodology/approach

– The paper draws on organizational theory, distinguishing between a structural-instrumental and a cultural-institutional perspective. A comparative case study design is applied. The analysis combines insights from four large research projects.

Findings

– Both cases represent broad government efforts to tackle “wicked” coordination problems when there is a mismatch between the problem structure and the organizational structure. In both cases, reorganization and structural changes resulted in hybrid and complex organizational arrangements. The welfare administration reform tried to solve a tension between ministerial responsibility and local self-government by introducing One-stop-shops. Within the area of internal security, coordination problems related to lacking ministerial capacity was tackled by introducing a formal principle of collaboration, a lead agency approach and network arrangements.

Practical implications

– Effective coordination might ease wicked problems by enhancing the understanding of the problem and its underlying causes, increasing the probability of finding agreed-upon solutions and help implementation. Enhanced communication and strengthened mutual trust and commitment among actors might be a positive outcome. However, coordination implies dilemmas and trade-offs, and reformers often have to balance different interests.

Originality/value

– The paper shows that different instruments of coordination are central for handling “wicked problems”.
Evaluation of post-GFC policy response of New Zealand
Authors: Islam Syrus M. , Yahanpath Noel
Published: October 2015

Purpose

– The paper aims to evaluate the role played by a recent banking and macro-prudential regime in addressing the financial crisis in New Zealand (NZ).

Design/methodology/approach

– The basic methodology used in this paper is the “documentary research method”. For this study data have been collected from various published sources.

Findings

– We find that the NZ government is one of the first few countries to implement Basel III to ensure the robustness of its banking sector while calibrating it to the unique needs of the economy and is in the process of phasing in several macro-prudential instruments (e.g. countercyclical capital buffer ore funding ratio sectoral capital requirement and loan-to-value ratio) to smooth the credit cycle of the economy. However implementing different requirements of a new policy has some challenges.

Research limitations/implications

– Further research may be carried out to investigate the policy responses of the government from corporate governance and other regulatory perspectives.

Practical implications

– This study identifies the effectiveness as well as some challenges faced when implementing different requirements of the new policy that may facilitate the policy makers to take appropriate action as required.

Originality/value

– This study provides a unique insight into the post-GFC scenario with regard to the government policy response in the banking sector and macro-prudential system that may provide the world with a financial-system warrant of fitness. It is one of the very few studies that showcase a global perspective and to our knowledge it is the first of its kind in NZ in the post-global financial crisis period.
Understanding decoupling in response to corporate governance reform pressures
Authors: Krenn Mario
Published: October 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this article is to explain under what circumstances firm-level adoption of codes of good corporate governance will more likely be superficial rather than substantive in nature. The article contains lessons for any agency or country that attempts to implement deep and lasting changes in corporate governance via codes of good corporate governance.

Design/methodology/approach

– The article reviews the literature on compliance with codes of good corporate governance and develops a conceptual model to explain why some firms that have formally adopted a code of good governance decouple this policy from its actual use.

Findings

– Decoupling in response to the issuance of codes of good corporate governance will be more attractive to firms and also more sustainable under the following conditions: firms’ compliance costs are relatively high firms’ costs of outright and visible non-compliance are relatively high and outsiders’ compliance monitoring costs are relatively high.

Originality/value

– The article contributes to the debate on compliance and convergence and provides policymakers with a conceptual framework for assessing the likelihood of successful regulatory change in corporate governance.
Valuing orientation efficacy
Authors: McPhail Ruth , French Ben , Wilson Keithia
Published: October 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this study was to improve the orientation experience of commencing first-year undergraduate business students to better prepare them for the reality of their academic studies through the development and implementation of a Commencing Student-Needs-Centred Orientation Framework.

Design/methodology/approach

– The methodology of this study used survey analysis and focus groups to explore low orientation efficacy scores from the cohort and resulted in a reconceptualisation and restructure of the existing orientation programme. The new programme was completed and implemented, and student’s perceptions remeasured. Evaluation was performed using sources of data across three semesters.

Findings

– Intervention success is demonstrated across three semesters by sustained and continuously improving orientation efficacy scores. Overall, student orientation efficacy improved by 19.6 per cent in the first implementation (B,n= 44), and an improvement of 22.8 per cent was seen in the third semester (C,n= 177), when compared to the first semester (A,n= 164).

Research limitations/implications

– The primary limitation of this study is that the exploratory framework was applied and evaluated only within a single discipline of business, and in one Australian university with a predominantly first-generation student population.

Practical implications

– The paper is a guide for the design of an orientation day programme informed by an evidence-based framework identifying the transition needs of commencing students entering higher education, which is tested for its efficacy in preparing students for their academic role, and for success.

Originality/value

– Orientation is an important, yet under-researched aspect of engagement and retention in today’s universities.
Acoustic resonance at the dawn of life: musical fundamentals of the psychoanalytic relationship
Authors: Pickering Judith
Published: October 2015

This paper uses a case vignette to show how musical elements of speech are a crucial source of information regarding the patient's emotional states and associated memory systems that are activated at a given moment in the analytic field. There are specific psychoacoustic markers associated with different memory systems which indicate whether a patient is immersed in a state of creative intersubjective relatedness related to autobiographical memory, or has been triggered into a traumatic memory system. When a patient feels immersed in an atmosphere of intersubjective mutuality, dialogue features a rhythmical and tuneful form of speech featuring improvized reciprocal imitation, theme and variation. When the patient is catapulted into a traumatic memory system, speech becomes monotone and disjointed. Awareness of such acoustic features of the traumatic memory system helps to alert the analyst that such a shift has taken place informing appropriate responses and interventions. Communicative musicality (Malloch & Trevarthen 2009) originates in the earliest non‐verbal vocal communication between infant and care‐giver, states of primary intersubjectivity. Such musicality continues to be the primary vehicle for transmitting emotional meaning and for integrating right and left hemispheres. This enables communication that expresses emotional significance, personal value as well as conceptual reasoning.
Hepatic reaction dose for parenchymal changes on Gd‐EOB‐DTPA‐enhanced magnetic resonance images after stereotactic body radiation therapy for hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Jung Jinhong , Yoon Sang Min , Cho Byungchul , Choi Young Eun , Kwak Jungwon , Kim So Yeon , Lee Sang‐wook , Ahn Seung Do , Choi Eun Kyung , Kim Jong Hoon
Published: October 2015

Introduction

The present study evaluated the threshold dose for hepatic parenchymal changes on gadolinium ethoxybenzyl diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid (Gd‐EOB‐DTPA)‐enhanced magnetic resonance (MR) images after stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

Methods

Twenty patients with available data of follow‐up MR images acquired 2–4 months after completion of SBRT were selected among the registered patients. SBRT was performed using multiple coplanar and non‐coplanar beams with energies of 6 or 15 MV. All patients were treated with doses of 45 Gy administered in three fractions over 3 consecutive days. For image registration between planning computed tomography (CT) and MR images, landmark‐based rigid body registration was performed using MIM software.

Results

Seventeen patients were included in the analysis. The median discrepancies between planning CT and MR images in the left–right, anterior–posterior and superior–inferior directions were 1.38 mm, 1.24 mm and 1.72 mm, respectively. The median D50 value for the defect in the hepatobiliary phase of Gd‐EOB‐DTPA‐enhanced MR images after SBRT was 19.8 Gy (range, 14.2–28.7 Gy), with R2 values ranging from 0.76 to 0.99.

Conclusions

The threshold dose for parenchymal changes in the hepatobiliary phase of Gd‐EOB‐DTPA‐enhanced MR images performed 2–4 months after 45 Gy of SBRT in three fractions was approximately 20 Gy. Our results provide the basis for further research on the functional loss of liver parenchyma after SBRT.
Strategic bidding in multi‐unit auctions with capacity constrained bidders: the New York capacity market
Authors: Schwenen Sebastian
Published: October 2015

This article employs a simple model to describe bidding behavior in multi‐unit uniform price procurement auctions when firms are capacity constrained. Using data from the New York City procurement auctions for power generating capacity, I find that firms use simple bidding strategies to coordinate on an equilibrium that extracts high rents for all bidders. I show theoretically and empirically that the largest bidder submits the auction clearing bid. All other bidders submit inframarginal bids that are low enough to not be profitably undercut. Inframarginal bidders decrease their bids as the pivotal firm's capacities and its profits of undercutting increase.
Private monitoring, collusion, and the timing of information
Authors: Khalil Fahad , Lawarrée Jacques , Scott Troy J.
Published: October 2015

When a principal's monitoring information is private (nonverifiable), the agent should be concerned that the principal could misrepresent the information to reduce the agent's wage or collect a monetary penalty. Restoring credibility may lead to an extreme waste of resources—the so‐called burning of money. A more realistic and efficient outcome is feasible when the private information arrives in time to rescale the agent's effort. Rescaling is more effective than pure monetary penalties because effort has different values to different parties whereas money is equally valuable to all parties. Furthermore, when rescaling is feasible, private monitoring is more efficient than public monitoring subject to collusion because nonmonetary penalties are ineffective to deter collusion.
Single dose delta‐9‐tetrahydrocannabinol in chronic pancreatitis patients: analgesic efficacy, pharmacokinetics and tolerability
Authors: de Vries Marjan , Van Rijckevorsel Dagmar C. M. , Vissers Kris C. P. , Wilder‐Smith Oliver H. G. , Van Goor Harry
Published: October 2015

Aim

We aimed to assess the analgesic efficacy, pharmacokinetics, tolerability and safety of a single dose of Δ9‐THC in patients with chronic abdominal pain resulting from chronic pancreatitis (CP).

Methods

This was a randomized, single dose, double‐blinded, placebo‐controlled, two way crossover study in patients suffering from abdominal pain as result of CP (n = 24), post hoc subdivided into opioid and non‐opioid users. Δ9‐THC (8 mg) or active placebo (5 mg/10 mg diazepam) was administered orally in a double dummy design.

Results

No treatment effect was shown for delta VAS pain scores after Δ9‐THC compared with diazepam. Δ9‐THC was well absorbed with a mean tmax of 123 min. No significant differences were found between Δ9‐THC vs. diazepam for alertness, mood, calmness or balance. Feeling anxious and heart rate were significantly increased after Δ9‐THC compared with diazepam. The most frequently reported adverse events (AEs) after Δ9‐THC administration were somnolence, dry mouth, dizziness and euphoric mood.

Conclusions

A single dose of Δ9‐THC was not efficacious in reducing chronic pain resulting from CP, but was well tolerated with only mild or moderate AEs. The PK results in CP patients showed delayed absorption and an increased variability compared with healthy volunteers.
The impact of personal bankruptcy law on entrepreneurship
Authors: Jia Ye (George)
Published: October 2015

I study the two competing effects of limited personal liability on entrepreneurship in a life‐cycle model: an insurance effect through debt relief in the event of business failure and a borrowing cost effect where the borrowing cost rises with default premiums. I first calibrate the model to the US economy by taking a simplified version of the US Chapter 7 bankruptcy code and then consider the effects of alternative regimes. I find that personal bankruptcy law affects entrepreneurship primarily by altering the decisions of agents with moderate entrepreneurial ability through the insurance effect rather than through the borrowing cost effect.
Elevated levels of soluble CD26 and CD30 in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Basnyat Pabitra , Natarajan Renuka , Vistbakka Julia , Lehtikangas Maija , Airas Laura , Matinlauri Irma , Elovaara Irina , Hagman Sanna
Published: October 2015

Objective

The activation of autoreactive T cells is a major event in the initiation of autoimmune responses in multiple sclerosis (MS). In addition to the T cell receptor stimulation, optimal activation of T cells requires various costimulatory molecules, such as CD26 and CD30, which has not been extensively studied in MS. Our aim was to explore whether the circulating levels of CD26 and CD30 in sera are associated with MS subtypes, inflammatory disease activity and disability in MS patients.

Methods

The study included 195 participants: 39 relapsing–remitting MS patients, 19 secondary‐progressive MS patients, 19 clinically isolated syndrome patients, 58 controls for sCD26 analysis and 60 for sCD30 analysis. The levels of sCD26 and sCD30 in sera were analyzed using enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay, and the levels of interleukin‐10, tumor necrosis factor‐α and interferon‐γ were analyzed with the Luminex assay.

Results

We observed increased levels of sCD26 and sCD30 in relapsing–remitting MS, secondary‐progressive MS, and clinically isolated syndrome patients compared with the controls (P < 0.05). Furthermore, elevated levels of sCD30 were noticed in treated relapsing–remitting MS patients than in untreated patients (P = 0.016), and also in converted CIS patients than in unconverted patients (P = 0.009). Although sCD26 and sCD30 could not associate with clinical measures, such as the disability score or disease activity, the levels of sCD30 correlated positively with interleukin‐10 levels (r = 0.583, P < 0.0001) and sCD26 levels (r = 0.262, P = 0.046) in MS patients.

Conclusion

The present results suggest that the elevated levels of sCD30 are associated with the regulatory immune responses predisposing to clinically stable phase of MS.
Alveolar ridge dimensional changes following ridge preservation procedure: part‐2 – CBCT 3D analysis in non‐human primate model
Authors: Omran Mostafa , Min Seiko , Abdelhamid Alaa , Liu Yi , Zadeh Homayoun H.
Published: October 2015

Aim

The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of ridge preservation involving novel devices used for obturation of socket orifice (Socket cap; SocketKAP™) and resorbable cage used for space maintenance in sites with facial wall dehiscence (Socket cage; SocketKAGE™).

Material and Methods

Eight teeth were extracted in each of six Macaca fascicularis non‐human primates. Six intervention groups consisted of the following: Group A: intact socket negative control. Group B: intact socket: socket cap. Group C: intact socket filled with anorganic bovine bone mineral (ABBM) + socket cap. Group D: dehiscence: negative control. Group E: dehiscence: socket cap + socket cage. Group F: dehiscence: filled with ABBM + socket cap + socket cage. CBCT scans were obtained preoperatively and at 6 and 12 weeks following intervention. The pre‐ and postoperative scans were superimposed, to quantify 3D volumetric alveolar bone changes.

Results

Volumetric bone loss occurred in all sockets, not only within the cretal zone (0–3 mm) to the ridge crest, as has been commonly reported by other investigators, but significant bone loss was also detected in the zone which was 3–6 mm apical to the alveolar crest. For intact sockets, socket cap + ABBM led to significantly greater percentages of remaining bone volume when compared to groups A and B. A significant difference favoring socket cap + socket cage + ABBM treatment was observed for sockets with facial dehiscence defects compared to groups D and E.

Conclusions

Socket cap in conjunction with ABBM appears effective in limiting post‐extraction volumetric bone loss in intact sockets, while socket cap + socket cage + ABBM appears effective in limiting post‐extraction bone loss in sockets with dehiscence defects.
Association of multiple genetic variants with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease susceptibility in Hainan region
Authors: Ding Yipeng , Niu Huan , Zhou Long , Zhou Wenjing , Chen Jiannan , Xie Shiliang , Geng Tingting , Ouyang Yanhong , He Ping , Sun Pei , Feng Tian , Jin Tianbo
Published: October 2015

Background and Aims

Recent genome‐wide association studies have shown associations between variants in loci (4q28.1, 6p21.32, 6p21.1, 6q16.1, 10q22.1 and 10q22.3) and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or smoking behaviors. The objective of this study was to look for associations between 16 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) at these six loci and COPD susceptibility in Hainan region.

Methods

A case‐control cohort was composed of 200 COPD cases and 401 controls that were genotyped and analyzed statistically. Odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were computed by chi‐square (χ2) test and genetic models by unconditional logistic regression.

Results

After Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium (HWE) P value screening, we excluded the SNP rs12220777 with P < 0.001. By χ2 test only rs9296092 which located on 6p21.32 was provided the strongest evidence of an increasing risk of COPD with an OR of 3.28 (95% CI = 1.03 – 2.32; P = 0.003) between cases and controls. By genetic models analysis, we not only found rs9296092 increased COPD risk, but also found in the over‐dominant model the genotype ‘C/T’ (OR = 0.55; 95% CI = 0.33 – 0.93; P = 0.023) of rs950063 was proved to be associated with decreased COPD risk.

Conclusions

This study is the first to provide evidence of importance of rs9296092 and rs950063 for risk of COPD in Hainan Province. Further studies are needed to characterize the functional sequences that cause COPD.
Influence of dietary protein on postprandial blood glucose levels in individuals with Type 1 diabetes mellitus using intensive insulin therapy
Authors: Paterson M. A. , Smart C. E. M. , Lopez P. E. , McElduff P. , Attia J. , Morbey C. , King B. R.
Published: October 2015

Aim

To determine the effects of protein alone (independent of fat and carbohydrate) on postprandial glycaemia in individuals with Type 1 diabetes mellitus using intensive insulin therapy.

Methods

Participants with Type 1 diabetes mellitus aged 7–40 years consumed six 150 ml whey isolate protein drinks [0 g (control), 12.5, 25, 50, 75 and 100] and two 150 ml glucose drinks (10 and 20 g) without insulin, in randomized order over 8 days, 4 h after the evening meal. Continuous glucose monitoring was used to assess postprandial glycaemia.

Results

Data were collected from 27 participants. Protein loads of 12.5 and 50 g did not result in significant postprandial glycaemic excursions compared with control (water) throughout the 300 min study period (P > 0.05). Protein loads of 75 and 100 g resulted in lower glycaemic excursions than control in the 60–120 min postprandial interval, but higher excursions in the 180–300 min interval. In comparison with 20 g glucose, the large protein loads resulted in significantly delayed and sustained glucose excursions, commencing at 180 min and continuing to 5 h.

Conclusions

Seventy‐five grams or more of protein alone significantly increases postprandial glycaemia from 3 to 5 h in people with Type 1 diabetes mellitus using intensive insulin therapy. The glycaemic profiles resulting from high protein loads differ significantly from the excursion from glucose in terms of time to peak glucose and duration of the glycaemic excursion. This research supports recommendations for insulin dosing for large amounts of protein.
A replication study of 49 Type 2 diabetes risk variants in a Punjabi Pakistani population
Authors: Zia A. , Wang X. , Bhatti A. , Demirci F. Y. , Zhao W. , Rasheed A. , Samuel M. , Kiani A. K. , Ismail M. , Zafar J. , John P. , Saleheen D. , Kamboh M. I.
Published: October 2015

Aim

The burden of Type 2 diabetes is alarmingly high in South Asia, a region that has many genetically diverse ethnic populations. Genome‐wide association studies (GWAS) conducted largely in European populations have identified a number of loci predisposing to Type 2 diabetes risk, however, the relevance of such genetic loci in many South Asian sub‐ethnicities remains elusive. The aim of this study was to replicate 49 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) previously identified through GWAS in Punjabis living in Pakistan.

Methods

We examined the association of 49 SNPs in 853 Type 2 diabetes cases and 1945 controls using additive logistic regression models after adjusting for age and gender.

Results

Of the 49 SNPs investigated, eight showed a nominal association (P < 0.05) that also remained significant after controlling for the false discovery rate. The most significant association was found for rs7903146 at the TCF7L2 locus. For a per unit increase in the risk score comprising of all the 49 SNPs, the odds ratio in association with Type 2 diabetes risk was 1.16 (95% CI 1.13–1.19, P < 2.0E–16).

Conclusion

These results suggest that some Type 2 diabetes susceptibility loci are shared between Europeans and Punjabis living in Pakistan.
Strategic Interaction and the Iran–Iraq War: Lessons to Learn for Future Engagement?
Authors: Donovan Jerome Denis , Topple Cheree , Naidoo Vik , Milner Trenton
Published: October 2015

Using an interdisciplinary approach combining international relations and Middle Eastern studies, this research examines the Iran–Iraq war using the concepts of strategic interaction and reciprocity as theoretical anchors to illuminate more fully than previous investigations how these two states arrived at the point of war in 1980. Through a case study methodology, the findings demonstrate mixed results for the applicability of IR theory to fully explain the Iran–Iraq war. In particular, as a key interactive element of dyadic relationships, it was proposed that the accumulation of past interactions was likely to propagate future behavior with past conflictual interactions increasing the likelihood of future conflictual interactions and vice versa. The observed findings however indicate that time moderates this relationship such that shorter temporal periods are required to support the role of accumulation in influencing future relations.
An Austrian Analysis of China's Unsustainable Boom
Authors: Howden David , Li Jason XingBin
Published: October 2015

Austrian Business Cycle Theory can shed light on the ways in which the current Chinese economic boom is unsustainable. On the one hand, government interventions, such as land monopolies, have raised costs for real estate developers. By limiting the availability of investment instruments and access to external markets, government interventions have created a strong demand for housing as a hedging tool. On the other hand, a loose monetary policy and artificially low interest rates have made the property market tempting for developers. Over‐construction and over‐consumption in the housing sector epitomise the capital structure analysis that Austrian economists regard as the core of their business cycle theory.
The Road Not Taken: A Comparison Between the Hard ECU and the Euro
Authors: Phelan John
Published: October 2015

In the context of the Eurozone crisis this paper re‐examines the Hard ECU using the concepts of the macroeconomic trilemma and the political trilemma. We find that the Hard ECU would have been less economically and politically damaging than the euro. We conclude that it was a superior approach to monetary union.
Current status of the brown trout (Salmo trutta) populations within eastern Pyrenees genetic refuges
Authors: Araguas Rosa M. , Vera Manuel , Aparicio Enric , Sanz Nuria , Fernández‐Cebrián Raquel , Marchante Concha , García‐Marín José L.
Published: October 2015

Since the end of the 20th century, some headwaters of rivers in the eastern Pyrenees have been designated as genetic refuges to protect remaining native brown trout (Salmo trutta) diversity. The declaration was based on limited or no evidence of genetic impact from released non‐native Atlantic hatchery fish. Hatchery releases were completely banned into the genetic refuges, but pre‐existing fishing activities were maintained. Specific locations in each refuge have been monitored every 2–3 trout generations to update genetic information to accurately assess the contribution of these reservoirs to the preservation of native brown trout gene pools. This work updates genetic information to year 2014 in three of these locations (in Ter, Freser and Flamisell rivers). Previous studies identified hatchery introgressed populations within refuges and suggested discrepancies between the underlying intention of the genetic refuges and the gene pools detected. Therefore, we also examined genetic divergences among locations inside refuge river segments. Combined information at five microsatellite and the lactate dehydrogenase C (LDH‐C*) loci showed reduced but significant temporal native allele frequency fluctuations in some of the above specific locations that did not modify overall levels of local diversity and river divergences. Bayesian clustering analyses confirmed the presence of differentiated native units within each genetic refuge. Some locations of the Freser River within the genetic refuge area showed high hatchery impact of non‐native fish (over 20%). We discuss additional local actions (releases of native fish, selective removals and fishery reinforcement with sterile individuals) to improve the conservation objective of genetic refuges.
Women in evolution – highlighting the changing face of evolutionary biology
Authors: Wellenreuther Maren , Otto Sarah
Published: October 2015

The face of science has changed. Women now feature alongside men at the forefront of many fields, and this is particularly true in evolutionary biology. This special issue celebrates the outstanding achievements and contributions of women in evolutionary biology, by highlighting a sample of their research and accomplishments. In addition to original research contributions, this collection of articles contains personal reflections to provide perspective and advice on succeeding as a woman in science. By showcasing the diversity and research excellence of women and drawing on their experiences, we wish to enhance the visibility of female scientists and provide inspiration as well as role models. These are exciting times for evolutionary biology, and the field is richer and stronger for the diversity of voices contributing to the field.
Global change synergies and trade‐offs between renewable energy and biodiversity
Authors: Santangeli Andrea , Toivonen Tuuli , Pouzols Federico Montesino , Pogson Mark , Hastings Astley , Smith Pete , Moilanen Atte
Published: October 2015

Reliance on fossil fuels is causing unprecedented climate change and is accelerating environmental degradation and global biodiversity loss. Together, climate change and biodiversity loss, if not averted urgently, may inflict severe damage on ecosystem processes, functions and services that support the welfare of modern societies. Increasing renewable energy deployment and expanding the current protected area network represent key solutions to these challenges, but conflicts may arise over the use of limited land for energy production as opposed to biodiversity conservation. Here, we compare recently identified core areas for the expansion of the global protected area network with the renewable energy potential available from land‐based solar photovoltaic, wind energy and bioenergy (in the form of Miscanthus × giganteus). We show that these energy sources have very different biodiversity impacts and net energy contributions. The extent of risks and opportunities deriving from renewable energy development is highly dependent on the type of renewable source harvested, the restrictions imposed on energy harvest and the region considered, with Central America appearing at particularly high potential risk from renewable energy expansion. Without restrictions on power generation due to factors such as production and transport costs, we show that bioenergy production is a major potential threat to biodiversity, while the potential impact of wind and solar appears smaller than that of bioenergy. However, these differences become reduced when energy potential is restricted by external factors including local energy demand. Overall, we found that areas of opportunity for developing solar and wind energy with little harm to biodiversity could exist in several regions of the world, with the magnitude of potential impact being particularly dependent on restrictions imposed by local energy demand. The evidence provided here helps guide sustainable development of renewable energy and contributes to the targeting of global efforts in climate mitigation and biodiversity conservation.
Calpain‐1 is associated with adverse relapse free survival in breast cancer: a confirmatory study
Authors: Pu Xuan , Storr Sarah J , Ahmad Narmeen S , Chan Stephen Y , Moseley Paul M , Televantou Despina , Cresti Nicola , Boddy Alan , Ellis Ian O , Martin Stewart G
Published: October 2015

Aims

Calpain‐1 is a ubiquitously expressed calcium‐activated intracellular cysteine protease. Altered expression of calpain system proteins has been implicated in cancer progression and response to chemotherapy.

Methods and results

The aim of the current study was to confirm previous data that suggested that calpain‐1 expression is associated with relapse‐free survival in trastuzumab‐treated breast cancer patients (n = 93). An expanded patient cohort from Nottingham (n = 194; including 72 of the previous cohort) and an independent patient cohort from Newcastle (n = 87) were used. All patients received trastuzumab following adjuvant therapy according to local guidelines with expression of calpain‐1 investigated using standard immunohistochemistry. Results show that calpain‐1 expression is associated with relapse‐free survival in both the Nottingham (P = 0.01) and Newcastle (P = 0.019) cohorts, with high expression associated with adverse relapse‐free survival. Expression was also associated with poor relapse‐free survival when patient cohorts were combined (n = 281, P = 0.01). Calpain‐1 remained, from multivariate analysis, an independent marker for relapse‐free survival in the Newcastle cohort [hazard ratio (HR) = 5.169; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.468–18.200; P = 0.011].

Conclusions

Calpain‐1 expression is associated with poor relapse‐free survival in breast cancer patients treated with trastuzumab. Further work is warranted to standardize and develop methodology with a view to potentially introducing assessment of this important biomarker into clinical practice.
MRI as a promising tool for evaluation of the stability of cosmetic emulsions
Authors: Onuki Y. , Kida C. , Funatani C. , Hayashi Y. , Takayama K.
Published: October 2015

Objective

We have recently established a novel method to evaluate the emulsion stability of pharmaceutical skin cream. The key technology of the method is magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The purpose of this study was to verify the usefulness of the method in the cosmetic industry.

Methods

Milky lotion‐type emulsions were employed as test samples. We note that the test samples were prepared by taking account of commercial milky lotions. After the sample preparation, a centrifugation treatment (5000 g for up to 120 min) was implemented to accelerate their destabilization processes. The centrifuged samples were monitored by using T2 relaxation time (T2) maps. Furthermore, the histograms generated from the T2 maps were analysed to investigate the destabilization process in more detail. In addition, small fractions of the upper and lower phases were collected from the centrifuged samples, and microscopic observations were conducted.

Results

T2 maps successfully visualized the destabilization process accompanying the centrifugation protocol. From the microscopic observations, it was clarified that the main mechanism of the destabilization process was creaming. The sensitivity of the T2 map to creaming was much superior to that of visible observation; the T2 map can detect a slight creaming that is not visible to the naked eye. In addition, the T2 map also enables the detection of slight reversible creaming–dispersion changes accompanied by a repeated centrifugation–vortexing treatment. By using the parameters derived from the histogram analysis, the creaming behaviour can be evaluated more precisely and more objectively. This study prepared emulsions containing different thickener contents and then compared their creaming behaviours. As a consequence of the analysis, we could fully evaluate the effect of thickener on the emulsion stability by the evaluation method.

Conclusion

MRI is a promising tool for evaluation of the stability of cosmetic emulsions.
Cross‐talk between pathogen recognizing Toll‐like receptors and immunoglobulin Fc receptors in immunity
Authors: van Egmond Marjolein , Vidarsson Gestur , Bakema Jantine E.
Published: October 2015

The individual role of pathogen‐binding Toll‐like receptors (TLRs) and antibody‐binding Fc receptors (FcRs) during pathogenic infections has been studied extensively. However, combined activation of these different receptor classes has received little attention, even though they are triggered simultaneously when immune cells bind antibody‐opsonized pathogens. In the last few years, it has become evident that joined activation of TLRs and FcRs substantially tailors inflammatory immune responses, which is an efficient and controlled mechanism of the host to act upon invading pathogens. In this review, we discuss the mechanisms of cross‐talk between different TLRs and FcRs and the resulting inflammatory immune responses. Furthermore, we propose how chronic activation via this cross‐talk might be detrimental in inflammatory (auto) immune diseases. We conclude with the potential exploitation of the interplay between TLRs and FcRs for monoclonal antibody therapy to target tumors. Future interests in this field of research include establishing a more detailed and mechanistic understanding of the mode of action of TLR and FcR cross‐talk and exploration of its physiological importance in health and disease. This may furthermore open up novel therapeutic options for intervention in inflammatory diseases or cancer.
The era of the immunoglobulin A Fc receptor FcαRI; its function and potential as target in disease
Authors: Aleyd Esil , Heineke Marieke H. , van Egmond Marjolein
Published: October 2015

Immunoglobulin A (IgA) is the most prevalent antibody at mucosal sites, and has an important role in defense by preventing invasion of pathogens. Traditionally, IgA has been thought of as a non‐inflammatory antibody that helps to maintain homeostasis in the mucosa. However, in the last decade it has become clear that IgA is a very potent stimulus to initiate pro‐inflammatory cellular processes, especially after triggering the IgA Fc receptor (FcαRI) on neutrophils. It was furthermore described that FcαRI acts as a regulator between anti‐ and pro‐inflammatory responses of IgA. Although neutrophil activation is beneficial in (mucosal) infections, abnormal or excessive IgA immune complexes can induce disproportionate neutrophil migration and in this way initiate a perpetuating neutrophil recruitment and activation loop, which will result in severe tissue damage. Increasing evidence on this process plays a detrimental role in several diseases, including autoimmune IgA blistering diseases, a subtype of rheumatoid arthritis and ulcerative colitis. Inhibiting FcαRI‐mediated activation may dampen inflammation in these patients. This process also opens up the possibility of targeting FcαRI in antibody immunotherapy of cancer. Thus, interfering with IgA‐mediated FcαRI activation may represent an attractive novel therapeutic strategy for multiple maladies.
Inside the Caucus: An Empirical Analysis of Mediation from Within
Authors: Klerman Daniel , Klerman Lisa
Published: October 2015

This article provides a glimpse into the worlds of mediation and settlement negotiation. Because they are almost always private, there has been relatively little empirical analysis of the dynamics of settlement or mediation. This article analyzes a unique data set derived from a mediator's contemporaneous notes of mediations involving employment disputes, such as claims of discrimination or wrongful termination. Although the data set includes more than 400 cases, since they were all mediated by a single mediator, this article can be viewed as a case study. Among the most interesting facts uncovered by this analysis are the following. Mediation can be extremely effective in facilitating settlement. The mediator studied here achieved a settlement rate of over 94 percent. There are very few gender differences, whether one looks at the gender of the plaintiff or the gender of the lawyers. For example, settlement rates are the same for male and female plaintiffs and lawyers. On average, cases settle much closer to the defendant's first offer than the plaintiff's, irrespective of case type, size of law firm, or other factors. A mediator's proposal appears to be the most effective mediation technique. A mediator's proposal was used in almost 90 percent of cases and, when it was used, the settlement rate was over 99 percent.
Product Differentiation by Competing Vertical Hierarchies
Authors: Bassi Matteo , Pagnozzi Marco , Piccolo Salvatore
Published: October 2015

We revisit the choice of product differentiation in the Hotelling model, by assuming that competing firms are vertically separated, and that retailers choose products' characteristics. The “principle of differentiation” does not hold because retailers with private information about their marginal costs produce less differentiated products in order to increase their information rents. Hence, information asymmetry within vertical hierarchies may increase social welfare by inducing them to sell products that appeal to a larger number of consumers. We show that the socially optimal level of transparency between manufacturers and retailers depends on the weight assigned to consumers' surplus and trades off two effects: higher transparency reduces price distortion but induces retailers to produce excessively similar products.