bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Triple A patient cells suffering from mitotic defects fail to localize PGRMC1 to mitotic kinetochore fibers
Authors: Jühlen Ramona , Landgraf Dana , Hübner Angela , Köhler Katrin
Published: July 2018

Membrane-associated progesterone receptors are restricted to the endoplasmic reticulum and are shown to regulate the activity of cytochrome P450 enzymes which are involved in steroidogenesis or drug detoxification. PGRMC1 and PGRMC2 belong to this group of microsomal receptors and are of interest due to their suspected role during cell cycle. PGRMC1 and PGRMC2 are thought to bind to each other thereby suppressing entry into mitosis. We could previously report that PGRMC2 interacts with the nucleoporin ALADIN which when mutated results in the autosomal recessive disorder triple A syndrome. ALADIN is a novel regulator of mitotic controller Aurora kinase A and depletion of this nucleoporin leads to microtubule instability. In the current study, we present that proliferation is decreased when ALADIN, PGRMC1 or PGRMC2 are over-expressed. Furthermore, we find that depletion of ALADIN results in mis-localization of Aurora kinase A and PGRMC1 in metaphase cells. Additionally, PGRMC2 is over-expressed in triple A patient fibroblasts. Our results emphasize the possibility that loss of the regulatory interaction between ALADIN and PGRMC2 gives rise to a depletion of PGRMC1 at kinetochore fibers and to mitotic errors. This observation may explain part of the symptoms seen in triple A syndrome patients.
Selective auxin agonists induce specific AUX/IAA protein degradation to modulate plant development
Authors: Vain Thomas , Raggi Sara , Ferro Noel , Barange Deepak Kumar , Kieffer Martin , Ma Qian , Doyle Siamsa M. , Thelander Mattias , Pařízková Barbora , Novák Ondřej , Ismail Alexandre , Enquist Per Anders , Rigal Adeline , Łangowska Małgorzata , Harborough Sigurd Ramans , Zhang Yi , Ljung Karin , Callis Judy , Almqvist Fredrik , Kepinski Stefan , Estelle Mark , Pauwels Laurens , Robert Stéphanie
Published: July 2018

Auxin phytohormones control most aspects of plant development through a complex and interconnected signaling network. In the presence of auxin, AUXIN/INDOLE-3-ACETIC ACID (AUX/IAA) transcriptional repressors are targeted for degradation by the SKP1-CULLIN1-F-BOX (SCF) ubiquitin-protein ligases containing TRANSPORT INHIBITOR RESISTANT 1/AUXIN SIGNALING F-BOX (TIR1/AFB). CULLIN1-neddylation is required for SCFTIR1/AFBfunctionality as exemplified by mutants deficient in the NEDD8-activating enzyme subunit AUXIN-RESISTANT 1 (AXR1). Here, we report a chemical biology screen that identifies small molecules requiring AXR1 to modulate plant development. We selected four molecules of interest, RubNeddin1 to 4 (RN1 to 4), among which RN3 and RN4 trigger selective auxin responses at transcriptional, biochemical and morphological levels. This selective activity is explained by their ability to promote the interaction between TIR1 and a specific subset of AUX/IAA proteins, stimulating the degradation of particular AUX/IAA combinations. Finally, via a genetic screen using RN4, we revealed that the chromatin remodeling ATPase BRAHMA is implicated in auxin-mediated apical hook development. These results demonstrate the power of selective auxin agonists to dissect auxin perception for plant developmental functions.
Quantifying the effects of head movement on magnetic resonance spectroscopy estimates of gamma-aminobutyric acid
Authors: Cui Edward D. , Maddock Richard J. , Buonocore Michael H. , Ozturk Meric , Yoon Jong H.
Published: July 2018

There has been keen interest in measuring in vivo GABA. However, GABA signal is low and typically measured using techniques vulnerable to the confounding effects of in-scanner head movement. This issue is particularly problematic for clinical studies since it may lead to Type I or II error in testing for group differences. While solutions to mitigate the effects of movement have been proposed, fundamental and largely unexamined issues are the nature and scale of this effect. We developed a method to quantify and characterize head movement during GABA spectroscopy and found that two parameters of movement, displacement and instantaneous movement, were inversely correlated with and accounted for 12.1% and 20.2% variance of GABA estimates respectively. We conclude that head movement can significantly affect GABA measurements and the application of methods to account for movement may improve of GABA measurement accuracy and the detection of true group differences in clinical studies.
IPSE, a urogenital parasite-derived immunomodulatory protein, ameliorates ifosfamide-induced hemorrhagic cystitis through downregulation of pro-inflammatory pathways
Authors: Mbanefo Evaristus C. , Le Loc , Zee Rebecca , Banskota Nirad , Ishida Kenji , Pennington Luke F. , Odegaard Justin I. , Jardetzky Theodore S. , Alouffi Abdulaziz , Falcone Franco H. , Hsieh Michael H.
Published: July 2018

Ifosfamide and other oxazaphosphorines can result in hemorrhagic cystitis, a constellation of complications caused by acrolein metabolites. We previously showed that a single dose of IPSE, a schistosome-derived host modulatory protein, can ameliorate ifosfamide-related cystitis; however, the exact mechanisms underlying this urotoxic effect and its prevention are not fully understood. To provide insights into IPSE’s protective mechanism, we undertook transcriptional profiling of bladders from ifosfamide-treated mice, with or without IPSE pretreatment. Following ifosfamide challenge, there was upregulation of a range of pro-inflammatory genes. The pro-inflammatory pathway involving the IL-1β, TNFαand IL-6 triad via NFκB and STAT3 signaling pathways was identified as the key driver of inflammation. The NRF2-mediated oxidative stress response pathway, which regulates bothHmox1-mediated heme homoeostasis and expression of antioxidant enzymes, was highly activated. Anti-inflammatory and cellular proliferation cascades implicated in tissue repair, namely Wnt, Hedgehog and PPAR pathways, were downregulated. IPSE administration before ifosfamide injection resulted in significant downregulation of major proinflammatory pathways including the triad of IL-1β, TNFαand IL-6 pathways, the interferon signaling pathway, and less apparent reduction in oxidative stress responses. Taken together, we have identified signatures of acute phase inflammation and oxidative stress responses in the ifosfamide-injured bladder, which are reversed by pretreatment with IPSE, a parasite derived anti-inflammatory molecule. In addition to providing new insights into the underlying mechanism of IPSE’s therapeutic effects, this work has revealed several pathways that could be therapeutically targeted to prevent and treat ifosfamide-induced hemorrhagic cystitis.
The genetic prehistory of the Andean highlands 7,000 Years BP though European contact
Authors: Lindo John , Haas Randall , Hofman Courtney , Apata Mario , Moraga Mauricio , Verdugo Ricardo , Watson James T. , Llave Carlos Viviano , Witonsky David , Pacheco Enrique Vargas , Villena Mercedes , Soria Rudy , Beall Cynthia , Warinner Christina , Novembre John , Aldenderfer Mark , Di Rienzo Anna
Published: July 2018

The peopling of the Andean highlands above 2500m in elevation was a complex process that included cultural, biological and genetic adaptations. Here we present a time series of ancient whole genomes from the Andes of Peru, dating back to 7,000 calendar years before present (BP), and compare them to 64 new genome-wide genetic variation datasets from both high and lowland populations. We infer three significant features: a split between low and high elevation populations that occurred between 9200-8200 BP; a population collapse after European contact that is significantly more severe in South American lowlanders than in highland populations; and evidence for positive selection at genetic loci related to starch digestion and plausibly pathogen resistance after European contact. Importantly, we do not find selective sweep signals related to known components of the human hypoxia response, which may suggest more complex modes of genetic adaptation to high altitude.

One Sentence Summary

Ancient DNA from the Andes reveals a complex picture of human adaptation from early settlement to the colonial period.
Consumer willingness to pay for low acrylamide content
Authors: Harkness Caroline , Areal Francisco
Published: July 2018

Purpose

Acrylamide is a common dietary exposure present in many baby foods. Evidence of acrylamide causing tumours in rodents has led to the chemical being classified as “probably carcinogenic to humans” by the International Agency for Research on Cancer. The purpose of this paper is to examine consumers’ willingness to pay (WTP) for a reduction in the acrylamide content of baby food and, therefore, a reduction in the risk of cancer.

Design/methodology/approach

A discrete choice experiment is conducted on UK consumers incorporating different levels of seven attributes: packaging, production method (organic, GM and conventional), acrylamide level, sugar, salt, one of five portions of fruit and vegetable per day and price. Consumer WTP for low acrylamide content is estimated using a mixed logit model.

Findings

The empirical results indicate consumers assign a high value to safer baby food, with low acrylamide content. The WTP premium for baby food with low acrylamide (105 per cent) is the highest of all attributes assessed. Consumers also have a preference for organic baby food, in contrast to an aversion towards GM. The study results indicate that reducing the acrylamide content in baby food is desirable for consumers.

Originality/value

This is the first study to estimate consumers’ WTP for reducing the acrylamide content of baby food in the UK. Existing research has been limited to examining the exposure of young children, in addition to the potential health risks.
Business model innovation for sustainability: a food start-up case study
Authors: Franceschelli Maria Vittoria , Santoro Gabriele , Candelo Elena
Published: July 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate and present the way in which a food start-up can develop business model innovations, taking into account the importance of social and environmental issues.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors studied an Italian pizzeria, implementing the illustrative single-case study methodology, to answer the research question: “how can food start-ups develop a sustainable business model innovation?”

Findings

The study highlights sustainable elements for each component of the business model configuration provided by Osterwalder to provide a deeper view of the sustainable business model concept.

Originality/value

The study contributes to the extant research introducing the concept of sustainable innovation within the business model literature. It concludes that, within the food industry, especially for start-ups, the development of sustainable business model innovation is particularly important because the industry is itself linked with nature and human respect. Moreover, it suggests a methodological analysis of the business model configuration, which will help to develop clearer and more accurate and influential research.
How are food Geographical Indications evolving? – An analysis of EU GI amendments
Authors: Quiñones Ruiz Xiomara Fernanda , Forster Hanna , Penker Marianne , Belletti Giovanni , Marescotti Andrea , Scaramuzzi Silvia , Broscha Kristina , Braito Michael , Altenbuchner Christine
Published: July 2018

Purpose

The protection of Geographical Indications (GIs) supports producers to define common quality standards while highlighting the geographical origin of food products with specific qualities. Adaptations of quality standards are driven by international competition, new production technologies or environmental change. The purpose of this paper is to analyse the modifications affecting European Union (EU) Protected Designation of Origin-Protected Geographical Indication. It specifically compares the share of amendments in diverse product class, years and countries, illustrates specific cases and identifies the factors explaining the probability to amend product specifications.

Design/methodology/approach

Official documents of the DOOR Database provide the material for an analysis of changes in product specifications. They also supply the data for four illustrative cheese cases and a logistic regression of all EU amendments.

Findings

Amendments of GI product specifications are very frequent: 17 per cent of all 1,276 EU GIs had at least one amendment. This happens in particular for processed products (42 per cent more often than for unprocessed ones) and specific countries (GIs in Italy are six times, Spain five times and France four times more likely to have an amendment compared to GIs from other EU countries). As illustrated by contrasting cheese amendments, the diverse modifications in the product specifications range from more flexibility and innovation on the one hand to stricter rules for strengthening the product’s identity on the other hand.

Originality/value

For EU and national authorities, GI producers and scholars, this first systematic EU-wide analysis of amendments demonstrates that protected food GIs have to be conceptualised as evolving institutions and not as statically protected food production systems.
The carmine dilemma: does the natural colourant preference outweigh nausea?
Authors: Müller-Maatsch Judith , Jasny Johannes , Henn Katharina , Gras Claudia , Carle Reinhold
Published: July 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide insight into the consumers’ perception of natural and artificial food colourants. Furthermore, attitudes towards the application of carmine, being technically important and ubiquitously used to impart red shades, are assessed and analysed. Originating from insects, carmine is considered as natural but may arouse disgust.

Design/methodology/approach

In total, 625 individuals were surveyed using an online, self-administered questionnaire to represent a broad cross-section of the German population.

Findings

Independent of their origin, the application of colourants was rejected by 57.0 per cent of the interviewees. In total, 31.8 per cent of the participants stated a neutral attitude, while only 11.2 per cent expressed a positive notion. Most respondents preferred colourants from natural sources to artificial ones. While consumers perceive natural food colourants composed of genuine plant pigments positively, 61.6 per cent of respondents disliked the application of animal-derived colourants, 24.8 per cent of them did neither reject nor like it, and only 13.6 per cent of the interviewees stated a positive attitude towards them. The findings of this paper further indicate consumers’ preference for colourants to be either artificial or plant-derived rather than carmine. Food colourants are being rejected, possibly due to misleading information and confusing labelling. Consequently, information about carmine, including its origin and production, did not increase the aversion to products that are dyed with it, but increased their acceptance.

Originality/value

This study outlines consumer perception and attitudes towards food colourants. For the first time, the findings of this paper report the effect of revealing information about an additive, which initially aroused disgust, and its influence on consumer perception.
Chinese and Vietnamese international students in Australia
Authors: Le Huong , McKay Jade
Published: July 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the voice of Chinese and Vietnamese international students through studying the similarities and differences in their learning experiences and the reasons underlying their experience.

Design/methodology/approach

In total, 57 Chinese and Vietnamese international students participated in focus groups and interviews regarding their experiences of higher education and their suggestions for improvement.

Findings

The findings show that Chinese and Vietnamese students had varying levels of challenges and different progress in the adaptation process and that Chinese students were more vocal and less satisfied with their experience of higher education than Vietnamese students. This is due to the mismatch in their expectation and the actual experience and the cultural influence.

Research limitations/implications

The sample size is relatively small. This study only looked at Vietnamese and Chinese students in one university, which might have limitations in relation to subjectivity and bias.

Practical implications

The findings provide useful implications for educators, institutional leaders and support staff to improve facilities, teaching quality and service to students.

Originality/value

In the current era of internationalisation, commercialisation and mobility in institutions around the world, this study advances current research and provides timely insight into the experiential differences of the Chinese and Vietnamese student experience and their voice.
Modeling and predict environmental indicators for land leveling using adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system (ANFIS), and regression
Authors: Mirzaei Farhad , Delavar Mahmoud , Alzoubi Isham , Nadjar Arrabi Babak
Published: July 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to develop three methods including artificial bee colony algorithm (ABC-ANN), regression and adaptive neural fuzzy inference system (ANFIS) to predict the environmental indicators for land leveling and to analysis the sensitivity of these parameters.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper develops three methods including artificial bee colony algorithm (ABC-ANN), regression and adaptive neural fuzzy inference system (ANFIS) to predict the environmental indicators for land leveling and to analysis the sensitivity of these parameters. So, several soil properties such as soil, cut/fill volume, soil compressibility factor, specific gravity, moisture content, slope, sand per cent and soil swelling index in energy consumption were investigated. A total of 90 samples were collected from three land areas with the selected grid size of (20 m × 20 m). Acquired data were used to develop accurate models for labor, energy (LE), fuel energy (FE), total machinery cost (TMC) and total machinery energy (TM).

Findings

By applying the three mentioned analyzing methods, the results of regression showed that, only three parameters of sand per cent, slope and soil, cut/fill volume had significant effects on energy consumption. All developed models (Regression, ANFIS and ABC-ANN) had satisfactory performance in predicting aforementioned parameters in various field conditions. The adaptive neural fuzzy inference system (ANFIS) has the most capability in prediction according to least RMSE and the highest R2 value of 0.0143, 0.9990 for LE. The ABC-ANN has the most capability in prediction of the environmental and energy parameters with the least RMSE and the highest R2 with the related values for TMC, FE and TME (0.0248, 0.9972), (0.0322, 0.9987) and (0.0161, 0.9994), respectively.

Originality/value

As land leveling with machines requires considerable amount of energy, optimizing energy consumption in land leveling operation is of a great importance. So, three approaches comprising: ABC-ANN, ANFIS as powerful and intensive methods and regression as a fast and simplex model have been tested and surveyed to predict the environmental indicators for land leveling and determine the best method. Hitherto, only a limited number of studies associated with energy consumption in land leveling have been done. In mentioned studies, energy was a function of the volume of excavation (cut/fill volume). Therefore, in this research, energy and cost of land leveling are functions of all the properties of the land including slope, coefficient of swelling, density of the soil, soil moisture, special weight and swelling index which will be thoroughly mentioned and discussed. In fact, predicting minimum cost of land leveling for field irrigation according to the field properties is the main goal of this research which is in direct relation with environment and weather pollution.
Inventory management effectiveness of a manufacturing company – Malaysian evidence
Authors: Karim Norazira Abd , Nawawi Anuar , Salin Ahmad Saiful Azlin Puteh
Published: July 2018

Purpose

The purposes of this study are to examine the standard operating procedure (SOP) on inventory management practices, identify any weaknesses in inventory management and examine its impact on the performance of the company. Inventory management is important because it ensures smooth production and prevents loss of sales because of stockout and/or customer dissatisfaction.

Design/methodology/approach

This study selects one manufacturing company as a case study and uses the mixed data collection method of document analysis and observation. The research analysis was conducted by using COSO Internal Control – Integrated Frame work 2013 as guidance.

Findings

It is revealed that a company practices risky inventory management in keeping stock, as it relies heavily on third-party warehousing services beyond the control of the company. This study also reveals that the SOPs are too general and lack specificity. However, poor inventory management has a modest influence on the financial performance of the company.

Research limitations/implications

In completing this study, some limitations are experienced such as changes on the management structure of the company as well as the department itself. Frequent changes on several procedures also may influence this study to obtain accurate information. In addition, some highly confidential documents such as detailed information and minutes from management meeting were not permitted to be examined.

Practical implications

This study provides recommendations to improve weak internal controls particularly on SOPs, so that fraud and mismanagement opportunities can be reduced.

Originality/value

This study makes an original contribution, as it enhances the theoretical and practical understanding on inventory control and management systems, particularly for a manufacturing company in the emerging market environment. In addition, it examines various internal financial reports and directly observes the process in supply change management, which are generally difficult to be accessed by academic researchers.
The influence of legal framework on the Hellenic sector of public works
Authors: Metallinos Pavlos
Published: July 2018

Purpose

This study aims to discover the motive for the time-to-time Hellenic collective capitalists’ intervention in the total circulation of capital of public works throughout the relative legislative framework. Thus the study attempts an original correlation of statistical indicators of Hellenic Statistical Authority with the legislative texts.

Design/methodology/approach

The Hellenic truth is that the branch of public works presents a peculiarity as far as the volume and quality of statistical facts and figures are concerned. To overcome this obstacle, this study analyzed the change of time series, relating the procedure of total circulation of contracting capital involved in public works with the content of the relative legislative rules which were applied during the period of 1958-2004 and their preambles. In this way, the annual volume of the constructional product in general is directly related with the particular characteristics that define the procedure of total circulation of the contracting capital in general.

Findings

The directly relation between the annual volume of the constructional Product in general and the particular characteristics that define the procedure of total circulation of the contracting capital in general, leads us to conclusions which, related with the policy and practices adopted by the collective capitalist, confirm or even set off eventual failures of respective conclusions drawn according to the prevailing concept.

Originality/value

By introducing the technique, the aim of this research work is achieved without reproducing the method of study and the conclusions of other researchers.
Drivers and barriers of omni-channel retailing in China
Authors: Ye Ying , Lau Kwok Hung , Teo Leon Kok Yang
Published: July 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the drivers and barriers to omni-channel retailing in China, and attempts to understand how companies formulate their business strategies during their transformations to omni-channel retailing.

Design/methodology/approach

This study adopts an exploratory case study approach to investigate the omni-channel retailing transformations of two well-established Chinese fashion apparel retailers. The study draws on multiple sources of evidence, comprising: interviews with eight business executives from three major operational departments; on-site observations in firm’s retail stores, factories and distribution centres; and secondary data review of firm business reports, news, whitepapers and archival records. The findings are established through a consistent within-case data analysis and cross-case comparison.

Findings

The study reveals that the two retailers formulated different strategies in developing their omni-channels, and exhibited different degrees of success. The similarities and differences in the drivers, as well as the barriers, were analyzed and compared in this study. Operational variations (i.e. enablers and inhibitors) due to the unique context of the Chinese market were also explored. The findings reveal that coherent leveraging firm resources and capabilities from the three perspectives – marketing, logistics and supply chain, and organizational management – is critical to the full implementation of omni-channel retailing. They provide relevant managerial insights that can assist firms in formulating appropriate strategic action plans during the transformations.

Originality/value

As a theoretical contribution, this paper identifies a set of drivers and barriers for omni-channel retailing in the developed market, and classifies them into three categories: marketing; logistics and supply chain; and organizational management. The empirical-based qualitative analysis reveals the key factors impacting on omni-channel retailing within the Chinese market, and suggests a series of practical implications for local retailers planning to embark on omni-channel retailing.
Resource selection in support of humanitarian operations: a case of the United States Navy
Authors: Apte Aruna , Yoho Keenan
Published: July 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present a model for selecting specific assets to be used in relief and disaster response missions based on the capabilities of, and contributions to, the demanded need for humanitarian assistance and disaster relief. During past disasters, the US Navy (USN) has responded with whatever ships were in the area regardless of their contribution to the need. The authors use data from the USN that has been gathered in other studies as an illustration of how the model may be applied to allocate the most useful vessels at the lowest cost.

Design/methodology/approach

A simple optimization model is used that utilizes scored capabilities as well as the estimated costs associated with US Naval vessels that will allocate the most useful assets at the lowest economic cost.

Findings

The model selects the most effective assets while minimizing the estimated economic cost. The US Naval assets that contribute the most effective humanitarian assistance and disaster response capability at the lowest cost are amphibious ships, leased commercial vessels and ready reserve force cargo ships.

Originality/value

This research fills a critical gap in the literature as there is no research that takes into account national Navy capability and proposes a solution to find those assets that are most mission and cost effective. As the USN looks for ways to cut costs while meeting mission priorities it will be necessary to determine which ship classes and types contribute the most while saving cost. The model introduced in this research provides insight into where investments should be made to meet strategic goals.
How do employees’ individual learning paths differ across occupations?
Authors: Poell Rob F. , Lundgren Henriette , Bang April , Justice Sean B. , Marsick Victoria J. , Sung SeoYoon , Yorks Lyle
Published: July 2018

Purpose

Employees are increasingly expected to organize their own human resource development activities. To what extent and how exactly employees in various organizational contexts manage to shape their individual learning paths however remains largely unclear. The purpose of this present study is to explore, leaning on the empirical Learning-Network Theory (LNT) research and its findings, how employees in different occupations create learning paths that are attuned to their specific work context.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper reviews 23 MSc theses based on 14 distinct data sets collected between 2005 and 2015, containing approximately 1,484 employees from some 45 organizations and across various professions. The teachers, nurses, postal, software, telecom, railway and logistics company employees were mostly based in the Netherlands. The analysis focuses on learning-path types and learning-path strategies found in the 23 studies.

Findings

Motives, themes, activities, social contexts and facilities were found to be instrumental in explaining differences among individual learning paths. A total of 34 original learning-path types and strategies were found to cluster under 12 higher-order labels. Some of these were based on learning motive, some on learning theme, some on core learning activities, some on social learning context and a few on a combination of these elements. Overall, the socially oriented learning-path strategy was the most prevalent, as it was found among nurses, employees of software/postal/telecom, railway and logistics company employees, as well as teachers in two schools.

Originality/value

The paper presents the first overview of empirical studies on employee learning path(s) (strategies). In addition, it strengthens the empirical basis of the LNT.
Credit rating system for small businesses using the K-S test to select an indicator system
Authors: Yu Shanli , Chi Guotai , Jiang Xin
Published: July 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to propose a system with the highest discriminatory power by selecting an indicator system based on the K–S test according to the unique circumstances of small enterprises.

Design/methodology/approach

The proposed method relies on calculating the K–S test statistical magnitude of D iteratively to reach a system with the maximum discriminatory power.

Findings

The empirical results, demonstrated using 3,045 small businesses from a Chinese bank, show that credit rating system should focus on the indicator system’s discriminatory power rather than a single indicator’s discriminatory power, because the interaction between indicators affects the discriminatory power of the system.

Practical implications

The proposed method creates a credit rating system with the highest discriminatory power, rather than its indicators, which is a more reasonable and novel approach to credit rating.

Originality/value

The approach is unique because the final system will have high discriminatory power and has excellent potential for decision support. The authors believe that this contribution is theoretically and practically relevant because credit rating for small business is especially difficult and complicated.
Identifying a suitable heat setting temperature to optimize the elastic performances of cotton spandex woven fabric
Authors: Islam Shariful , Alam Shaikh Md. Mominul , Akter Shilpi
Published: July 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to facilitate the production of cotton spandex woven fabric with some user-friendly properties like wearer comfort, super stretch and elasticity. The findings could contribute to ease spandex production and to optimize its property of elasticity. Stretch or a super stretch property is generally desirable, as it can increase the comfort level of those who wear it. In this experiment, the difficulties which were identified while manufacturing cotton spandex woven fabric resolved after identification.

Design/methodology/approach

In this experiment, three types of cotton spandex woven fabrics, with different composition and constructions, were used to find out their elastic properties. Temperature ranging from 160°C to 200°C with the machine speed of 20 to 26 MPM (meter per minute) was applied with an adjusted industrial setting with the facilities of a stenter machine to optimize the properties of cotton spandex woven fabric.

Findings

The findings establish that the temperature treatment closely compacted the elastic portions with cotton fibers, giving stability to the spandex yarn, which as a result, influenced cotton spandex woven fabric’s elastic properties, namely, stretch, growth and recovery. The consequences of temperature on cotton spandex yarns were assessed using a microscope, and the results were subsequently analyzed.

Research limitations/implications

Because of the poor facilities in testing laboratory, only few tests with microscopic evaluation were conducted to assess the elastic performances of cotton spandex woven fabric.

Practical implications

It is a practice-based research, and the findings could be beneficial to personnel in the textile industry, who are responsible for the manufacturing of cotton spandex woven fabric.

Social implications

This research could enhance the wearer’s satisfaction, with some comfort elastic properties, which can have a positive influence over spandex clothing industries.

Originality/value

This research establishes that heat setting had a progressive influence on the production of cotton spandex woven fabric and for the optimization of its elastic performances. This research opens a possible way for scholars to further study in this field.
Australia's Growth in Households and House Prices
Authors: Day Creina
Published: July 2018

Real house prices rise in Australia amid growing concern of an impending correction. This article explains why the household formation rate has risen with strong population growth due to higher net immigration and average household size levelling off due to population ageing. An intertemporal model is developed to analyse the effect of an increase in the household formation rate on the housing market. I find that real house prices rise over time if the rate of household formation outstrips the rate of housing supply. Under forward looking expectations, a rising household formation rate could explain rising real house prices relative to the present discounted value of future wages. The results explain why real house prices may exhibit an upward trend despite population ageing and how government planning could have an impact.
Do Foreign Mergers and Acquisitions Increase Acquired Firms’ Innovation? Evidence from Chinese Manufacturing Firms
Authors: Zhang Zheng , Deng Yuping , Tang Sam Hak Kan
Published: July 2018

By merging China's manufacturing enterprise, patent and customs databases, we construct a sample of 27,130 firms from 2002–2007. Using Poisson fixed‐effects regressions to control for firm and year heterogeneities and a host of control variables, we find that acquired firms of foreign mergers and acquisitions (FMA) apply for significantly more patents than their domestic counterparts in invention, utility model and design patents. Furthermore, FMA increases innovation through expanding firm size, exports and human capital formation. Wholly foreign‐owned firms are more innovative than partially foreign‐owned firms, and acquired firms in labour‐intensive industries are more innovative than those in capital‐intensive industries.
Impact of the four‐hour National Emergency Access Target on 30 day mortality, access block and chronic emergency department overcrowding in Australian emergency departments
Authors: Forero Roberto , Man Nicola , Ngo Hanh , Mountain David , Mohsin Mohammed , Fatovich Daniel , Toloo Ghasem (Sam) , Celenza Antonio , FitzGerald Gerry , McCarthy Sally , Richardson Drew , Xu Fenglian , Gibson Nick , Nahidi Shizar , Hillman Ken
Published: July 2018

Objective

Previous research reported strong associations between ED overcrowding and mortality. We assessed the effect of the Four‐Hour Rule (4HR) intervention (Western Australia (WA) 2009), then nationally rolled out as the National Emergency Access Target (Australia 2012) policy on mortality and patient flow.

Methods

A longitudinal cohort study of a population‐wide 4HR, for 16 hospitals across WA, New South Wales (NSW), Australian Capital Territory (ACT) and Queensland (QLD). Mortality trends were analysed for 2–4 years before and after 4HR using interrupted time series technique. Main outcomes included the effect of 4HR on patient flow markers; admitted 30 day mortality trends; and patient flow marker performance during the study period.

Results

There were 40 281 deaths from 952 726 emergency admissions. All jurisdictions, except ACT, had improved flow and access block after 4HR. Age‐standardised mortality was decreasing before the intervention. Post‐intervention, WA had a significant reduction in mortality rate of −0.28 per 1000 patients per quarter (P = 0.040) while QLD had mixed results and NSW/ACT trends did not change significantly. Meta‐regression of aggregated data for hospitals grouped on flow performances did not show significant mortality changes associated with the policy.

Conclusions

The 4HR was introduced as a means of driving hospital performance by applying a time target. Patient flow improved, but the evidence for mortality benefit is controversial with improvement only in WA. Further research with more representative data from a larger number of hospitals over a longer time across Australia is needed to increase statistical power to detect long‐term effects of the policy.
‘The Too Clever by Half People’ and Parliament
Authors: Whyte William
Published: July 2018

The role of intellectuals in shaping pressure on parliament has often been neglected and still more frequently downplayed. Even intellectuals themselves have doubted their own political importance; hence Walter Bagehot's observation that ‘the too clever by half people, who live in Bohemia, ought to have no more influence in parliament, than they have in England, and they can scarcely have less’. This article considers what it is to be an intellectual in politics – and what political role intellectuals played in Victorian Britain. It concludes that intellectuals were crucial in helping to define the nature of parliament and of the political process, articulating an ideology which shaped the ways in which other groups put pressure on parliament.
Primary pulmonary malignant melanoma: Case report and literature review
Authors: Shi Yuequan , Bing Zhongxing , Xu Xiaohui , Cui Yushang
Published: July 2018

Primary malignant melanoma of the lung is an extremely rare pulmonary carcinoma. Only 45 cases have been reported in the literature. Herein, we report a case of a 46‐year‐old male patient with an O Rh negative blood type who presented with pulmonary bronchial symptoms and underwent lobectomy. Genetic testing was also performed but no targetable mutations were found, and the patient's PD‐L1 RNA level was low. He developed brain metastasis four months after surgery and received radiotherapy but died 21 months after diagnosis. We review the published cases of this rare pulmonary lesion.
Staff conceptualisations of elder abuse in residential aged care: A rapid review
Authors: Radermacher Harriet , Toh Ying Li , Western Deborah , Coles Jan , Goeman Dianne , Lowthian Judy
Published: July 2018

Objective

The purpose of this rapid review was to explore how residential aged care staff conceptualise and identify elder abuse.

Methods

English‐language publications, between 2000 and 2017, about elder abuse in residential aged care in developed countries were sought from three academic databases. Only perspectives on staff‐to‐resident and resident‐to‐resident abuse were included.

Results

Over 2000 articles were screened, and 19 journal articles were included in the review. A wide range of abusive behaviours was identified, but there was little common understanding of what constituted elder abuse. Furthermore, disparities in conceptualisations were greater for certain types of abuse (e.g. verbal, psychological and caregiving).

Conclusion

Elder abuse in residential aged care was conceptualised and identified by staff in diverse and different ways. This lack of common understanding hinders the development of effective interventions and prevention strategies, which include staff education and training as well as significant structural and institutional changes.
Learning to feel at home in the Anthropocene:
Authors: VINE MICHAEL
Published: July 2018

In the deserts of Southern California, a series of climate crises has disturbed the form and content of the ordinary. In this context of unfolding change, Californians are experimenting with the spaces, surfaces, objects, and infrastructures of their homes, harnessing the material elements of the house as a site not only of repetition and reproduction but also of reinvention. At times, these experiments in the ecologies of everyday life unleash a range of transformative effects on both self and world, accreting into instances of cosmological reconfiguration. Rather than analyze such experiments as practices of adaptation or recovery, we can better understand them as attempts to cultivate alternative ways of feeling at home in the Anthropocene. Such experiments take up the relations among aesthetics, ethics, and affect as their primary site of improvisation and innovation.
An international consensus statement on the management of postoperative anaemia after major surgical procedures
Authors: Muñoz M. , Acheson A. G. , Bisbe E. , Butcher A. , Gómez‐Ramírez S. , Khalafallah A. A. , Kehlet H. , Kietaibl S. , Liumbruno G. M. , Meybohm P. , Rao Baikady R. , Shander A. , So‐Osman C. , Spahn D. R. , Klein A. A.
Published: July 2018

Despite numerous guidelines on the management of anaemia in surgical patients, there is no pragmatic guidance for the diagnosis and management of anaemia and iron deficiency in the postoperative period. A number of experienced researchers and clinicians took part in a two‐day expert workshop and developed the following consensus statement. After presentation of our own research data and local policies and procedures, appropriate relevant literature was reviewed and discussed. We developed a series of best‐practice and evidence‐based statements to advise on patient care with respect to anaemia and iron deficiency in the postoperative period. These statements include: a diagnostic approach to iron deficiency and anaemia in surgical patients; identification of patients appropriate for treatment; and advice on practical management and follow‐up that is easy to implement. Available data allow the fulfilment of the requirements of Pillar 1 of Patient Blood Management. We urge national and international research funding bodies to take note of these recommendations, particularly in terms of funding large‐scale prospective, randomised clinical trials that can most effectively address the important clinical questions and this clearly unmet medical need.
Minimally Invasive Implantation of Continuous Flow Left Ventricular Assist Devices: The Evolution of Surgical Techniques in a Single‐Center Experience
Authors: Carrozzini Massimiliano , Bejko Jonida , Guariento Alvise , Rubino Maurizio , Bianco Roberto , Tarzia Vincenzo , Gregori Dario , Bottio Tomaso , Gerosa Gino
Published: July 2018

In this work we aimed to evaluate the evolution of our surgical experience with the implantation of a continuous flow left ventricular assist device (LVAD), from the original full sternotomy approach to less invasive surgical strategies including mini‐sternotomy and/or mini‐thoracotomies. We reviewed all consecutive patients implanted with a continuous flow LVAD at our Institute. To exclude the possible bias related to the device used, out of 91 collected LVADs implants, we selected only those patients (n = 42) who received, between 2012 and 2015, the HeartWare HVAD. The analysis focused on the surgical approach used for the LVAD implant. Most of the patients (95%) were affected by dilated or ischemic cardiomyopathy, with an INTERMACS class I‐II in the majority of cases (77%). The LVAD implant was performed through a full sternotomy in 10 patients (24%); the remaining 32 cases (76%) were managed with minimally invasive procedures. These were left mini‐thoracotomy with upper mini‐sternotomy (20 patients, 62%), right and left mini‐thoracotomy (7 patients, 22%), and a recently developed left mini‐thoracotomy with outflow graft anastomosis to the left axillary artery (5 patients, 16%). The most common adverse event on device was right heart failure (26%). Eighteen patients (43%) were transplanted. Overall estimated 24 months survival (on device or after transplant) was 68 ± 7%. The causal analysis, adjusted by propensity score weighting baseline data and sample size, showed that left mini‐thoracotomy with outflow anastomosis to the left axillary artery resulted in a significantly reduced rate of post implant right heart failure (P < 0.01), and mechanical ventilation time (P = 0.049). To conclude, in our series, by applying mini‐invasive implant techniques in the majority of cases, mid‐term survival of continuous flow LVADs in severely compromised patients was satisfactory. In the adjusted analysis, the left anterior mini‐thoracotomy with outflow anastomosis to the left axillary artery showed the most favorable results.
TREX1 is expressed by microglia in normal human brain and increases in regions affected by ischemia
Authors: Kothari Parul H. , Kolar Grant R. , Jen Joanna C. , Hajj‐Ali Rula , Bertram Paula , Schmidt Robert E. , Atkinson John P.
Published: July 2018

Background

Mutations in the three‐prime repair exonuclease 1 (TREX1) gene have been associated with neurological diseases, including Retinal Vasculopathy with Cerebral Leukoencephalopathy (RVCL). However, the endogenous expression of TREX1 in human brain has not been studied.

Methods

We produced a rabbit polyclonal antibody (pAb) to TREX1 to characterize TREX1 by Western blotting (WB) of cell lysates from normal controls and subjects carrying an RVCL frame‐shift mutation. Dual staining was performed to determine cell types expressing TREX1 in human brain tissue. TREX1 distribution in human brain was further evaluated by immunohistochemical analyses of formalin‐fixed, paraffin‐embedded samples from normal controls and patients with RVCL and ischemic stroke.

Results

After validating the specificity of our anti‐TREX1 rabbit pAb, WB analysis was utilized to detect the endogenous wild‐type and frame‐shift mutant of TREX1 in cell lysates. Dual staining in human brain tissues from patients with RVCL and normal controls localized TREX1 to a subset of microglia and macrophages. Quantification of immunohistochemical staining of the cerebral cortex revealed that TREX1+ microglia were primarily in the gray matter of normal controls (22.7 ± 5.1% and 5.5 ± 1.9% of Iba1+ microglia in gray and white matter, respectively) and commonly in association with the microvasculature. In contrast, in subjects with RVCL, the TREX1+ microglia were predominantly located in the white matter of normal appearing cerebral cortex (11.8 ± 3.1% and 38.9 ± 5.8% of Iba1+ microglia in gray and white matter, respectively). The number of TREX1+ microglia was increased in ischemic brain lesions in central nervous system of RVCL and stroke patients.

Conclusions

TREX1 is expressed by a subset of microglia in normal human brain, often in close proximity to the microvasculature, and increases in the setting of ischemic lesions. These findings suggest a role for TREX1+ microglia in vessel homeostasis and response to ischemic injury.