bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Incentives for Polish higher education institutions to improve real estate efficiency
Authors: Rymarzak Małgorzata
Published: October 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyse the appropriateness of incentives used by governments for Polish public higher education institutions (HEIs) to be more efficient in real estate and how these incentives can be strengthened.

Design/methodology/approach

A closed-ended questionnaire was sent to all public HEIs in Poland. Of the 132 questionnaires sent, 57 were successfully completed and returned, representing a response rate of 43 per cent.

Findings

Analysis of empirical data demonstrates that when considerable public funds, both national and European, were distributed to extend and upgrade academic infrastructure, Polish HEIs have had no obligation to show how they manage the assets entrusted to them, and the government has not created adequate incentives to encourage efficiency in the use of HEIs real estate. This may have resulted in a significant, yet not always justified, increase in the space at their disposal. In view of a demographic decline, the low level of internalisation of Polish HEIs, the decreasing level of funding from the public purse and the growing operation and maintenance costs of the buildings, an oversupply of space may cause financial distress to some establishments. This may affect the future of the whole system of higher education.

Practical implications

This paper can be a resource for HEI chancellors, financial directors and campus managers, as well as HEI funding and supervisory institutions.

Originality/value

This paper highlights the need to strengthen incentives for public HEIs in Poland to foster their greater efficiency in resource allocation and utilization. Greater transparency in HEI operations and the improvement of the POL-on system may contribute to more efficient use of university assets.
What is the relevance of policy transfer and policy translation in integrated care development?
Authors: Ow Yong Lai Meng , Cameron Ailsa
Published: October 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to document the influence of policy transfer on integrated care development, its global occurrence and shifts towards integrated care. It highlights the influence of supranational forces, and the roles and relevance of policy transfer and policy translation in the development of integrated care.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper presents the findings of an international review of the policy transfer of integrated care, and the relevance of policy translation in integrated care development.

Findings

The global occurrence in integrated care, as evinced in this paper, can be seen in the global shift towards integrated care in various countries. However, studies exploring the actual mechanism of policy transfer and policy translation in relation to integrated care across countries are limited. The study of integrated care through the lens of policy transfer is important, as it for example, explores the structural elements, including environmental and cognitive obstacles in the policy transfer process. Policy translation offers a social constructivist approach to explore the travel of ideas, and considers the multiple spatial and scalar contexts in which integrated care policy is implemented.

Originality/value

This paper aims to advance policy transfer and policy translation as complementary frameworks to explain integrated care development. Second, it seeks to make novel and useful contributions to the debate about the development of integrated care, and to the wider arguments on policy transfer and policy translation and integrated care in other parts of the world.
Board independence, frequency of meetings and performance
Authors: Musleh Alsartawi Abdalmuttaleb
Published: October 2018

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the relationship between board structure and performance from an Islamic point of view.

Design/methodology/approach

Consequently, the researcher developed a multiple linear regression model to investigate the nature of this relationship, whereby return on assets (ROA) was used to measure the performance of listed Islamic Banks in Gulf Cooperation Council, covering the period between 2013 and 2016.

Findings

The results indicated a negative relationship between board structure and the performance of Islamic banks.

Research limitations/implications

Because the current study only used accounting-based performance indicator (ROA), the researcher suggests expanding the framework of this study through the addition of market-based performance indicators such as Tobin’s Q.

Practical implications

Therefore, the researcher recommends that regulators of Islamic banks in the GCC need to develop a set of strict restrictions for the selection of independent members of the board and to minimize the meetings of the board to reduce the cost of preparing information and the information asymmetry, thus improving performance.

Originality/value

This study provides guidelines regarding the appropriate number of independent directors and board meetings that will result in reduced monitoring costs and improved profits.
The AGOA as stepping stone for USA–Africa free trade agreements
Authors: Simo Regis
Published: October 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to show how the pattern of trade relations between the USA and African countries is gradually shifting toward reciprocity. It therefore demonstrates that the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) was conceived to be a building block toward future bilateral trade agreements.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper adopts a historical approach to the USA’s policy toward Africa in general and in trade matters in particular. It critically reviews the chronology of US involvement in the continent.

Findings

Although it was designed as a preferential trade arrangement, AGOA was intended to evolve into reciprocal trade agreements. This is what the USA started doing even prior to the entry into force of the AGOA, by entering into Trade and Investment Framework Agreements with individual countries or blocs. It also transpires that the deployment comes as a response to the European Union which is already engaged in the redefinition of its own trade relations with Africa since 2004.

Originality/value

The paper is important in many respects. Not only it is a study of the US practice as preference-granting country, but it is also interested in the typology of trade agreements concluded by the USA in other regions of the world. This is important to indicate and analyze the types of provisions African countries should be expected to face when the time of entering into reciprocal binding trade treaties arrives.
Additive manufacturing in the spare parts supply chain: hub configuration and technology maturity
Authors: H. Khajavi Siavash , Holmström Jan , Partanen Jouni
Published: October 2018

Purpose

Innovative startups have begun a trend using laser sintering (LS) technology patents expiration, namely, by introducing LS additive manufacturing (AM) machines that can overcome utilization barriers, such as the costliness of machines and productivity limitation. The recent rise of this trend has led the authors to investigate this new class of machines in novel settings, including hub configuration. There are various supply chain configurations to supply spare parts in industrial operations. This paper aims to explore the promise of a production configuration that combines the benefits of centralized production with the flexibility of local manufacturing without the huge costs related to it.

Design/methodology/approach

This study quantitatively examines the feasibility of different AM-enabled spare parts supply chain configurations. Using cost data extracted from a case study, three scenarios per AM machine technology are modeled and compared.

Findings

Results suggest that hub production configuration depending on the utilized AM machines can provide economic efficiency and effectiveness to reduce equipment downtime. While previous studies have suggested the need for AM machines with efficiency for single part production for a distributed supply chain, the findings in this research illustrate the positive relationship between multi-part production capability and the feasibility of a hub manufacturing configuration establishment.

Originality/value

This study explores the promise of a production configuration that combines the benefits of centralized production with the flexibility of local manufacturing without the huge costs related to it. Although the existing body of knowledge contains research on production decentralization, research on various levels of decentralization is lacking. Using a real-world case study, this study aims to compare the feasibility of different levels of decentralization for AM-enabled spare parts supply chains.
Fabrication and tensile testing of 3D printed continuous wire polymer composites
Authors: Ibrahim Yehia , Melenka Garrett W. , Kempers Roger
Published: October 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to evaluate and predict the tensile properties of additively manufactured continuous wire polymer composites (CWPCs).

Design/methodology/approach

An open-source 3D printer was modified to print CWPCs where metal wires act as a reinforcement within a polymer matrix. The influence of different wire materials and diameters on the tensile modulus and ultimate tensile strength was studied. Different polymer matrixes were used to investigate the effect of the matrix on CWPCs’ tensile properties. The behaviour of samples was predicted analytically using the rule of mixture micromechanical approach and investigated experimentally using an American society for testing and materials standard tensile test.

Findings

Experimental results showed improvement in the elastic modulus and ultimate strength of CWPCs compared with non-reinforced specimens. Deviation between the experimental data and the analytical prediction was found to be dependent on the matrix type, wire volume fraction and wire material.

Originality/value

This paper introduces novel continuous metal wire-reinforced 3D printed composites. The continuous wire inside the print can be used as a strain gauge which can give an early alert for material failure. Applications for CWPCs include 3D-printed pressure and temperature sensors which measure the change in the wire’s electrical resistance and 3D-printed heaters which would work by supplying current through continuous wires.
Do the changes in macroeconomic variables have a symmetric or asymmetric effect on stock prices? Evidence from Pakistan
Authors: Chang Bisharat Hussain , Rajput Suresh Kumar Oad
Published: October 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine whether macroeconomic variables have a symmetric or asymmetric effect on stock prices (SP) of Karachi Stock Exchange 100 index in the context of Pakistan. It also examines whether the asymmetric impact of macroeconomic variables on SP has been affected by tail events such as the global financial crisis.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses linear and nonlinear autoregressive distributed lag models for the full sample period as well as in pre- and post-crisis periods. The whole sample period covers the data from June 2004 to June 2016 which include 145 observations in total. The pre-crisis period covers data from June 2004 to December 2007 and the post-crisis period covers the data from January 2009 to June 2016 where these periods include 43 and 90 observations, respectively.

Findings

The findings suggest that the relationship between macroeconomic variables and SP is asymmetric in the short run whereas this effect is symmetric in the long run when the whole sample period is selected. However, when pre- and post-crisis periods are selected this effect becomes asymmetric in the long run as well; that is, positive and negative shocks in macroeconomic variables do not affect the SP in the same way.

Practical implications

Investors, governments and other stakeholders are advised to consider the asymmetric behavior of macroeconomic variables and SP while making an investment or other decisions. They may consider the financial crisis as well since the asymmetric behavior of the underlying variables change as a result of the financial crisis.

Originality/value

This study extends previous studies by examining the asymmetric effect of macroeconomic variables and also contributes to the existing literature by discussing how this relationship changes as a result of the financial crisis.
Body-worn cameras: determining the democratic habitus of policing
Authors: Cayli Baris , Hargreaves Charlotte , Hodgson Philip
Published: October 2018

Purpose

This study advances our knowledge about the effectiveness of body-worn cameras (BWCs) through exploring the perceptions of English police officers in three principal areas: positive perceptions, negative perceptions and evidence-focussed perceptions. In doing so, the purpose of this paper is to shed new light on the democratising process in the habitus of policing.

Design/methodology/approach

This study presents a novel data set that evaluates the introduction of BWC to police officers in the East Midlands area of England. The authors conducted an extensive survey to explore the perceptions of 162 police officers about the BWCs. The authors examined the empirical data using Stata within the theoretical framework of Pierre Bourdieu concerning the concept of habitus.

Findings

The authors have found that most police officers perceive that BWCs have a positive impact on policing practices and evidence collection. The positive perceptions and evidence-focussed perceptions increase the importance of BWCs; however, there are also negative perceptions regarding effective policing, administrative functionality and establishing a better relationship with the community. The authors argued that all three areas: positive perceptions, negative perceptions and evidence-focussed perceptions play a stimulating role to democratise the habitus of policing. On the other hand, BWCs do not guarantee the consolidation of democratic principles in the habitus of policing because of the authority of police to decide when, where and how to use BWCs.

Research limitations/implications

The research is limited to the perceptions of 162 police officers in East Midlands before they actually started using it. A future study to analyse their real-life experiences after using the BWCs may help us to compare their perceptions before using it with real-life experiences after BWCs are used. In addition, a comparative approach between countries in future research will help to explain the role of technological applications in different social geographies and legal systems.

Originality/value

This study offers new insights about the perceptions of police on BWCs before they started using them. The authors introduce the democratic habitus of policing as an innovative concept and explored power dynamics in the habitus of policing through BWCs. The findings provide a strong empirical contribution to determine the conditions of democratic habitus of policing. In doing so, this study develops our theoretical knowledge about the habitus concept in sociology by employing BWCs in policing activities.
Exploring m-leader affordances: team leaders and mobile technologies
Authors: Gilstrap Curt
Published: October 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to examine how mobile technologies impact virtual team leaders and provides insight into how mobile technologies afford leaders varied capacity to accomplish their team work.

Design/methodology/approach

The author addresses the research questions by assessing a large, qualitative data set drawn from surveyed mobile team leaders, analyzing the data using Leximancer software to explore naturally emerging concepts and then interpreting the data thematics using axial coding.

Findings

In addition to demonstrating that virtual team leaders are well aware they use mobile technologies regularly, this paper also suggests e-leaders be known as m-leaders, clarifies the entanglements of mobility and leadership practices and offers insight into the m-leader affordance dimensions of multimediality, multimodality, multichronicity and multimotility.

Originality/value

This paper is among the first to investigate team leaders relative to mobile technology as well as what such technology offers m-leaders and mobile teams. Additionally, the size of the data set provides unique insight into m-leaders’ experiences across myriad sectors.
Wiki‐analysis: speed, adaptation and subjectivity in a liquid world
Authors: Bisagni Francesco
Published: October 2018

The paper is a reflection on the conflictual relationship between adaptation and subjectivity, persona and individuation, starting from Jung's seminal writings, and their developing features in contemporary society. With reference to sociologist Zygmunt Bauman's speculations on so called liquid society and retrotopia, concepts like nostalgia are examined in the article. A case of a manic and violent nine‐year‐old child, a millennial‐to‐be boy treated in the mid‐nineties, is presented to describe issues like shame, object promiscuity, consumerism and overexcitement, and suggests questions on whether and how these patterns would be different for patients belonging to the Generations Z (born between 1996 and 2010) and Alpha (born after 2010). The case material shows how the construction of a suitable persona was the only aim of the child's family, in terms of a merely quantitative regulation, their model being that of being adequately capable of consuming and being consumed, using each other for utilitarian purposes, and essentially avoiding the sense of self‐and‐other as live objects. Psychoanalysis is theoretically and clinically challenged and confronted with the conflict between the new features of adaptation and a dimension of subjectivity whose traits are more and more difficult to detect.
Legislatures, Legislation and Legislating in the British Atlantic, 1692–1800†
Authors: Graham Aaron
Published: October 2018

Despite recent work quantifying the legislative output of the British and Irish parliaments between 1692 and 1800, the same has not been extended to the imperial territories of the British Atlantic in the same period, despite the importance of colonial politics in the sweeping constitutional changes that culminated in 1775 and revolution. This article is the first to track the basic patterns of legislative output from all the colonial legislatures in north America and the West Indies and to link these data with population. It shows that the overall output jumped considerably in the period, as in Britain and Ireland, but that this was largely concentrated in the 1750s and 1760s under the pressure of warfare, though colonial elites afterwards began to exploit their new legislative experience for their own needs. However, no clear correlation was found between legislation and revolution. The experience of individual territories varied wildly, suggesting that the causes of revolution were neither inherent nor inevitable, and that legislation was a tool used by both sides rather than a cause of conflict in its own right.
Clinicopathologic characteristics and outcome of patients with different EGFR mutations
Authors: Zhou Shengyu , Hu Xingsheng , Wang Yan , Li Junling , Zhou Liqiang , Hao Xuezhi , Liu Yutao , Shi Yuankai
Published: October 2018

Aim

Most epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) gene mutations affecting exon 19 (inframe deletions; 19 Del) and 21 (L858R), while the rest (referred as uncommon EGFR mutation) have not been fully described due to their rarity. Here we present a retrospective study that investigated clinical characteristics and outcome of patients with different EGFR mutations.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed the EGFR mutation pattern and its association with clinical‐pathological characteristics from 100 cases of nonsmall‐cell lung cancer (NSCLC) harboring EGFR mutations, and compiled the genotype response data for NSCLC patients with common and uncommon EGFR mutations treated with EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs). Patients with advanced EGFR‐mutated NSCLC were enrolled and treated with icotinib (oral administration, 125 mg, thrice per day).

Results

Among 100 patients, 85 and 15 had common and uncommon mutations, respectively. Four patients had a single mutation in 18 or 20 exon, and 11 had a complex mutation with del‐19 or L858R. There was no significant association between the presence of different mutation type and the type of any clinical and pathological characteristics. Prolonged but not significant progression‐free survival (PFS) was noted in patients with common EGFR mutations (18.07 [14.00–26.23] vs 12.9 [8.43–23.27], P = 0.056). Patients without brain metastases had increased PFS to icotinib than those with brain metastases (18.07 [95% confidence interval, CI 14.77–27.03] vs 13.17 [95% CI 8.63–22.63], P = 0.038).

Conclusion

Uncommon EGFR mutations comprised 15% of all mutated patients, in which most were complex mutations. Compared with common EGFR mutation, uncommon EGFR mutations were associated with a modest sensitivity to EGFR TKIs. Our findings will be helpful to make clinical decision and select the appropriate therapy for EGFR‐mutated NSCLC patients.
Atopic diseases and type I sensitization from adolescence to adulthood in an unselected population (TOACS) with focus on predictors for allergic rhinitis
Authors: Mortz Charlotte G. , Andersen Klaus E. , Poulsen Lars K. , Kjaer Henrik F. , Broesby‐Olsen Sigurd , Bindslev‐Jensen Carsten
Published: October 2018

Background

While much is known on childhood atopic diseases, knowledge about persistence of atopic diseases from childhood to adulthood is limited. We therefore aimed to study the clinical course of atopic diseases and type I sensitization prospectively in an unselected cohort of adolescents followed into adulthood.

Methods

A cohort of unselected 8th‐grade school children (mean age 14 years) established in 1995 and followed up in 2010 were evaluated with questionnaire, clinical examination, skin prick tests and measurements of specific IgE.

Results

The lifetime prevalence of atopic diseases was high and increased significantly from adolescence (31%) to adulthood (57%); particularly allergic rhinitis increased with an incidence rate of 17.5/1000 person‐years. Childhood predictors for adult allergic rhinitis were atopic dermatitis, asthma and asymptomatic sensitization to pollen and house dust mite. Among those with asymptomatic sensitization in adolescence, 53%‐78% developed allergic rhinitis in adulthood. Furthermore, type I sensitization increased significantly from adolescence to adulthood mostly due to increased sensitization to pollen. Type I sensitization was found mainly in those with allergic rhinitis. A high number of adults had oral allergy symptoms due to the high number of birch pollen allergic individuals.

Conclusion

Persistence of atopic diseases in adulthood is common, and a high proportion of the adult population is sensitized giving a high prevalence of allergic rhinitis. Many with asymptomatic sensitization in adolescence will develop allergic rhinitis in adult life. The focus should be on prevention of atopic diseases and sensitization already in childhood.
Antiresorptive Agents are More Effective in Preventing Titanium Particle‐Induced Calvarial Osteolysis in Ovariectomized Mice Than Anabolic Agents in Short‐Term Administration
Authors: Fu Guangtao , Li Shixun , Ouyang Nengtai , Wu Junyan , Li Changchuan , Liu Wei , Qiu Junxiong , Peng Peng , Qin Ling , Ding Yue
Published: October 2018

Aseptic loosening due to wear particle‐induced osteolysis is the main cause of arthroplasty failure and the influence of postmenopausal osteoporosis and anti‐osteoporosis treatment on Titanium (Ti) particle‐induced osteolysis remains unclear. 66 C57BL/6J female mice were used in this study. Ovariectomy (OVX) was performed to induce osteopenia mice and confirmed by micro‐CT. The Ti particle‐induced mouse calvaria osteolysis model was established subsequently and both OVX and Sham‐OVX mice were divided into four groups, respectively: Ti (‐) group, Ti group, Ti + zoledronic acid (ZOL) group (50ug/kg, local administration, single dose) and Ti + teriparatide (TPTD) group (40ug/kg/d, subcutaneous injection*14d). Mice calvarias were collected for micro‐CT and histomorphometric analysis 2 weeks after particle induction. 8 weeks after bilateral OVX, significantly reduced BMD and microstructure parameters in both proximal tibia and calvaria were observed in OVX mice when comparing with Sham‐OVX mice. OVX mice in Ti group had not only markly decreased BMD and BV/TV, but also significantly increased total porosity, eroded surface area and osteoclast numbers when comparing with Sham‐OVX mice. Shown by Two‐way ANOVA analysis, the interaction terms between OVX and Ti implantation on micro‐CT and histomorphometry parameters didn’t reach significant difference. As illustrated by micro‐CT and histological analysis, ZOL treatment markedly inhibited Ti particle‐induced osteolysis in OVX mice and Sham‐OVX mice, and there were significant differences when comparing to both Ti and Ti+TPTD group. The combination of osteoporosis and Ti particle implantation result in aggravated bone resorption, accompanied with increased osteoclasts and excessive inflammation response. ZOL was more effective in preventing Ti particle‐induced osteolysis in both OVX mice and Sham‐OVX mice than TPTD in short‐term administration. ZOL exert the protective effects on Ti particle‐induced bone loss via the suppression of osteoclasts.
Enterovirus infection and type 1 diabetes: unraveling the crime scene
Authors: Rodriguez-Calvo T
Published: October 2018

Enteroviruses (EV) have been historically associated to type 1 diabetes. Definitive proof for their implication in disease development is lacking, but growing evidence suggests that they could be involved in beta cell destruction either directly by killing beta cells or indirectly by creating an exacerbated inflammatory response in the islets, capable of attracting autoreactive T cells to the ‘scene of the crime’. Epidemiological and serological studies have been associated with the appearance of islet autoimmunity and EV RNA has been detected in prospective studies. In addition, the EV capsid protein has been detected in the islets of recent-onset type 1 diabetic donors, suggesting the existence of a low-grade EV infection that could become persistent. Increasing evidence in the field shows that a ‘viral signature’ exists in type 1 diabetes and involves interferon responses that could be sustained during prolonged periods. These include the up-regulation of markers such as protein kinase R (PKR), melanoma differentiation-associated protein 5 (MDA5), retinoic acid inducible gene I (RIG-I), myxovirus resistance protein (MxA) and human leukocyte antigen-I (HLA-I) and the release of chemokines able to attract immune cells to the islets leading to insulitis. In this scenario, the hyperexpression of HLA-I molecules would promote antigen presentation to autoreactive T cells, favoring beta cell recognition and, ultimately, destruction. In this review, an overview of the standing evidence that implicates EVs in beta cell ‘murder’ is provided, the time-line of events from EV entry in the cell to beta cell death is investigated and possible accomplices that might be involved in beta cell demise are highlighted.
IL4-10 fusion protein: a novel immunoregulatory drug combining activities of interleukin 4 and interleukin 10
Authors: Steen-Louws C , Hartgring S A Y , Popov-Celeketic J , Lopes A P , de Smet M B M , Eijkelkamp N , Lafeber F P J G , Hack C E , van Roon J A G
Published: October 2018

The objective of this study was to test the capacity of a newly developed fusion protein of interleukin 4 (IL-4) and IL-10 [IL4-10 fusion protein (FP)] to shift multiple pro-inflammatory pathways towards immune regulation, and to inhibit pro-inflammatory activity in arthritis models. The effects of IL4-10 FP in comparison with IL-4, IL-10 and IL-4 plus IL-10 on pro- and anti-inflammatory mediators, T cells and immunoglobulin (Ig) receptors in favour of immunoregulatory activity were studied. In addition, the capacity of IL4-10 FP to inhibit pro-inflammatory activity in ex-vivo and in-vivo arthritis models was investigated. IL4-10 FP robustly inhibited pro-inflammatory cytokine [IL-1β, tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α, IL-6 and IL-8] production in whole blood cultures, mediated by both the IL-10 and the IL-4 moiety. IL4-10 fusion protein induced IL-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1RA) production and preserved soluble TNF receptor (sTNFR) levels, strongly increasing IL-1RA/IL-1β and sTNFR/TNF-α ratios. In addition, IL4-10 FP strongly inhibited T helper (Th) type 1 and 17 cytokine secretion, while maintaining FoxP3 expression and up-regulating Th2 activity. In addition, while largely leaving expression of activating Fc gamma receptor (FcγR)I, III and Fc epsilon receptor (FcεR) unaffected, it significantly shifted the FcγRIIa/FcγRIIb ratio in favour of the inhibitory FcγRIIb. Moreover, IL4–10 FP robustly inhibited secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines by rheumatoid arthritis synovial tissue and suppressed experimental arthritis in mice, without inducing B cell hyperactivity. IL4-10 fusion protein is a novel drug, signalling cells to induce immunoregulatory activity that overcomes limitations of IL-4 and IL-10 stand-alone therapy, and therefore has therapeutic potential for inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis.
The use of platelet‐rich plasma to enhance the outcomes of implant therapy: A systematic review
Authors: Stähli Alexandra , Strauss Franz Josef , Gruber Reinhard
Published: October 2018

Objective

To assess the effect of platelet‐rich plasma (PRP) on implant dentistry. The primary focused question was as follows: What are the clinical, histological, and radiographic outcomes of PRP administration for bone regeneration and implant therapy?

Methods

A literature search was conducted involving three databases: MEDLINE, EMBASE and Cochrane database followed by a hand search of relevant scientific journals. Human studies using PRP for bone regeneration and implant therapy were considered and articles published up to December 31, 2017 were included. Eligible studies were selected based on the inclusion criteria, and quality assessments were conducted.

Results

In total, out from the 9,497 titles meeting the original search criteria, 22 fulfilled the inclusion criteria and were chosen for data extraction. Among them were 15 randomized controlled trials (RCT) and seven controlled clinical trials (CCT). Overall, the risk of bias was moderate to high. A total of seven studies showed superior outcomes when PRP was added during sinus floor elevation and five showed no superior outcome. Three studies found a significant advantage of PRP for alveolar bone regeneration and another three studies for soft tissue healing. Three studies reported on beneficial effects of PRP directly during implant placement while another study failed to find significant differences. Due to the heterogeneity of study designs, no meta‐analysis could be performed.

Summary and Conclusions

Despite the lack of consistent evidence supporting the clinical benefit of PRP in healthy patients, PRP might have a positive effect on wound healing and bone regeneration in compromised patients.
Endoscopic ultrasound‐guided retrievable puncture anchor‐assisted gastroenterostomy
Authors: Hu Jinlong , Zhang Kai , Sun Siyu
Published: October 2018

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The relationship of previous dental trauma with new cases of dental trauma. A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Magno Marcela B. , Neves Aline B. , Ferreira Daniele M. , Pithon Matheus M. , Maia Lucianne C.
Published: October 2018

Background/Aims

Traumatic dental injuries (TDI) are a public health concern with high prevalence and recurrence rate. The aim of this study was to perform a systematic review and meta‐analysis to determine whether previous dental trauma is a predictive factor for new episodes of TDI (recurrence or first episodes).

Materials and Methods

Electronic searches were performed with no language or date restrictions. According to the PECOS strategy, cohort studies that investigated subjects with and without previous TDI, and its association with new TDI episodes, as primary or secondary outcomes, were included. Quality assessment and bias control were carried out according to Fowkes and Fulton guidelines. A meta‐analysis was performed by sub‐grouping studies into deciduous and permanent dentition, and the risk ratio (RR) was also calculated (P ≤ 0.05). The evidence was quality‐tested using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) approach.

Results

After titles and abstracts were examined, and full texts were read, five studies were included in this systematic review. Four studies had high methodological quality, and one presented a risk of bias on confounding factors. No association and a positive association were determined between previous history of TDI and new episodes of TDI in the primary (RR 1.26 [0.99, 1.62], P = 0.06) and in the permanent dentitions (RR 2.68 [1.20, 4.19], I2 = 37%, P < 0.00001), respectively. The pooled results demonstrated a positive association (P < 0.00001) between previous dental trauma and new episodes of TDI (RR 2.17 [1.20, 3.90], P = 0.01, I2 = 83%) with moderate evidence quality level.

Conclusions

Individuals that have suffered previous TDI present a greater risk of suffering new episodes of TDI.
Latent profile analysis of psychosis liability in a community‐derived sample of adolescents: Links with mental health difficulties, suicidal ideation, bipolar‐like experiences and psychotic‐like experiences
Authors: Fonseca‐Pedrero Eduardo , Ortuño‐Sierra Javier , Muñiz José , Bobes Julio
Published: October 2018

Aim

The main goal of the present study was to explore the latent structure of schizotypy as an indicator of psychosis liability, in a community‐derived sample of adolescents. Links to mental health difficulties, prosocial behaviour, suicidal ideation, bipolar‐like experiences and psychotic‐like experiences (PLEs) (severity and distress) were compared across schizotypy latent profiles.

Method

The present research included 1588 adolescents selected by a stratified random cluster sampling. The Oviedo Schizotypy Assessment Questionnaire (ESQUIZO‐Q), The Paykel Suicide Scale (PSS), The Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ), The Prodromal Questionnaire‐Brief (PQ‐B), The Mood Disorder Questionnaire (MDQ), The Penn Matrix Reasoning Test (PMRT), The Family Affluence Scale‐II (FAS‐II), and The Oviedo Infrequency Scale (INF‐OV) were used.

Results

Using latent profile analysis four latent classes (LC) were identified: “Positive schizotypy” (14.1%, n = 224), “Low schizotypy” (51.9%, n = 825), “Social Disorganization schizotypy” (27.2%, n = 432), and “High schizotypy” (6.7%, n = 107). The “High schizotypy” class scored higher on several psychometric indicators of psychopathology (ie, mental health difficulties, suicide ideation, bipolar‐like experiences and PLEs) relative to the other three LC.

Conclusion

Four groups of adolescents with different patterns of schizotypal traits and different clinical‐pathological meaning were found. Deficits found across schizotypy latent profiles, resembling those found in patients with psychosis and ultra‐high risk samples. The identification of homogeneous subgroups of adolescents potentially at risk for psychosis may help us in the prevention of psychotic‐spectrum disorders and mental health problems.
Strengthening Indigenous cultural competence in dentistry and oral health education: Academic perspectives
Authors: Forsyth Cathryn , Irving Michelle , Short Stephanie , Tennant Marc , Gilroy John
Published: October 2018

Introduction

Indigenous Australians continue to experience significant oral health disparities, despite numerous closing‐the‐gap initiatives. Higher education institutions and accrediting bodies recognise the need to incorporate Indigenous culture more widely into dentistry curricula to address these inequalities. This study aimed to define and explore current Indigenous cultural competence curricula, identify enablers and barriers for integration of Indigenous cultural competence curricula and ascertain innovative strategies to aid students in becoming culturally competent upon graduation, from academics' perspectives.

Methods

Academics from the Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) and Bachelor of Oral Health (BOH) programmes at the University of Sydney, School of Dentistry participated in semi‐structured interviews to define and explore current and future curricula practices to enable students to become competent in Indigenous culture. Thematic analysis was conducted to synthesise academics' responses.

Results

Thirteen School of Dentistry academics participated in interviews. Following analysis of the data, six key themes emerged: Theme One: Transfer of Indigenous cultural knowledge, Theme Two: Barriers to developing Indigenous cultural curriculum. Theme Three: Importance of cultural immersion, Theme Four: Resources required for Indigenous cultural education, Theme Five: Proposed Indigenous cultural content, Theme Six: Strategies to incorporate Indigenous culture into curricula.

Conclusion

Improving Indigenous cultural competence amongst dentistry academics and students requires an educational and philosophical shift, incorporating the social determinants of health whilst maintaining the strengths of the biomedical foundations of dental care. It requires the inclusion of an informed history of Indigenous Australians, immersion within Indigenous communities and reflection upon these experiences, to facilitate culturally appropriate ways to improve the provision of dentistry and oral health for Indigenous peoples.
Limitations on the human capital transferability of adult migrants in Spain: Incentive or barrier for a new investment in education?
Authors: Muñoz‐Comet Jacobo , Miyar‐Busto María
Published: October 2018

Many empirical studies on immigrant integration document the benefits of an education acquired in the country of destination. In this article; we study how the degree of human capital transferability affects an immigrant's chances of studying in Spain. We used data from the Spanish Labour Force Survey (2008–2015) for a sample of adults aged 18–55 who had left the educational system. The main findings show that natives are the ethnic group with the highest likelihood of re‐enrolling in education. Amongst immigrants, those with fewer limitations on human capital transferability also invest more. These results question the predictions of the Immigrant Human Capital Investment model which expect that immigrants whose human capital depreciates upon arrival and those who can obtain a higher return on a new investment in education are therefore more likely to study. Moreover, the effect of skill transferability differs depending on the type of obstacle and the kind of education. Immigrants with less linguistic and cultural familiarity with the host country are less likely to undertake non‐formal education than formal education. However, when the transferability obstacles are related to administrative requirements and legal restrictions, the probability of investing in non‐formal education is higher. We conclude that immigrants with low skill transferability are not only less well integrated in the labour market upon arrival, but are also less able to redress that disadvantage through a new investment in education.
A randomized controlled trial of a walking training with simultaneous cognitive demand (dual‐task) in chronic stroke
Authors: Meester D. , Al‐Yahya E. , Dennis A. , Collett J. , Wade D. T. , Ovington M. , Liu F. , Meaney A. , Cockburn J. , Johansen‐Berg H. , Dawes H.
Published: October 2018

Background and purpose

The aim was to evaluate the tolerability of, adherence to and efficacy of a community walking training programme with simultaneous cognitive demand (dual‐task) compared to a control walking training programme without cognitive distraction.

Methods

Adult stroke survivors at least 6 months after stroke with a visibly obvious gait abnormality or reduced 2‐min walk distance were included in a two‐arm parallel randomized controlled trial of complex intervention with blinded assessments. Participants received a 10 week, bi‐weekly, 30 min treadmill programme at an aerobic training intensity (55%–85% heart rate maximum), either with or without simultaneous cognitive demands. Outcome was measured at 0, 11 and 22 weeks. The primary assessment involved 2‐min walk tests with and without cognitive distraction to investigate the dual‐task effect on walking and cognition; secondary results were the Short Form Health Survey 36, EuroQol‐5D‐5L, the Physical Activity Scale for the Elderly (PASE) and step activity.

Results

Fifty stroke patients were included; 43 received allocated training and 45 completed all assessments. The experimental group (n = 26) increased their mean (SD) 2‐min walking distance from 90.7 (8.2) to 103.5 (8.2) m, compared with 86.7 (8.5) to 92.8 (8.6) m in the control group, and their PASE score from 74.3 (9.1) to 89.9 (9.4), compared with 94.7 (9.4) to 77.3 (9.9) in the control group. Statistically, only the change in the PASE differed between the groups (P = 0.029), with the dual‐task group improving more. There were no differences in other measures.

Conclusions

Walking with specific additional cognitive distraction (dual‐task training) might increase activity more over 12 weeks, but the data are not conclusive.
A novel GABAergic dysfunction in human Dravet syndrome
Authors: Ruffolo Gabriele , Cifelli Pierangelo , Roseti Cristina , Thom Maria , van Vliet Erwin A. , Limatola Cristina , Aronica Eleonora , Palma Eleonora
Published: October 2018

Objective

Dravet syndrome is a rare neurodevelopmental disease, characterized by general cognitive impairment and severe refractory seizures. The majority of patients carry the gene mutation SCN1A, leading to a defective sodium channel that contributes to pathogenic brain excitability. A γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABAergic) impairment, as in other neurodevelopmental diseases, has been proposed as an additional mechanism, suggesting that seizures could be alleviated by GABAergic therapies. However, up to now the physiological mechanisms underlying the GABAergic dysfunction in Dravet syndrome are still unknown due to the scarce availability of this brain tissue. Here we studied, for the first time, human GABAA‐evoked currents using cortical brain tissue from Dravet syndrome patients.

Methods

We transplanted in Xenopus oocytes cell membranes obtained from brain tissues of autopsies of Dravet syndrome patients, tuberous sclerosis complex patients as a pathological comparison, and age‐matched controls. Additionally, experiments were performed on oocytes expressing human α1β2γ2 and α1β2 GABAA receptors. GABAA currents were recorded using the two‐microelectrodes voltage‐clamp technique. Quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction, immunohistochemistry, and double‐labeling techniques were carried out on the same tissue samples.

Results

We found (1) a decrease in GABA sensitivity in Dravet syndrome compared to controls, which was related to an increase in α4‐ relative to α1‐containing GABAA receptors; (2) a shift of the GABA reversal potential toward more depolarizing values in Dravet syndrome, and a parallel increase of the chloride transporters NKCC1/KCC2 expression ratio; (3) an increase of GABAA currents induced by low doses of cannabidiol both in Dravet syndrome and tuberous sclerosis complex comparable to that induced by a classical benzodiazepine, flunitrazepam, that still persists in γ‐less GABAA receptors.

Significance

Our study indicates that a dysfunction of the GABAergic system, considered as a feature of brain immaturity, together with defective sodium channels, can contribute to a general reduction of inhibitory efficacy in Dravet brain, suggesting that GABAA receptors could be a target for new therapies.
Linagliptin inhibits high glucose‐induced transdifferentiation of hypertrophic scar‐derived fibroblasts to myofibroblasts via IGF/Akt/mTOR signalling pathway
Authors: Li Yan , Zhang Julei , Zhou Qin , Wang Hongtao , Xie Songtao , Yang Xuekang , Ji Peng , Zhang Wanfu , He Ting , Liu Yang , Wang Kejia , Li Xiaoqiang , Shi Jihong , Hu Dahai
Published: October 2018

Hypertrophic scar (HS) is a fibroproliferative disease after serious burns; the underlying mechanism remains unknown. The study was performed to clarify the effect of high glucose (HG) on HS. The expression of Col1, Col3 and α‐SMA was upregulated in HS‐derived fibroblasts (HSF) exposed to HG (20 and 30 mmol/L), and HG activated the phosphorylated protein expression of IGF/Akt/mTOR signalling pathway in HSF. Dpp4, a marker targeted the treatment of diabetes mellitus, was overexpressed in HG‐induced HSF. Linagliptin, a Dpp4 inhibitor, played the antifibrotic role in HSF exposed to HG, the levels of Col1, Col3 and α‐SMA were significantly downregulated, and the cell proliferation and migration were also inhibited. Furthermore, linagliptin alleviated the phosphorylated protein expression of IGF/Akt/mTOR signalling pathway. Moreover, the mTOR inhibitor (rapamycin) mimicked the effect of linagliptin on the collagen and α‐SMA that means linagliptin may inhibit HG‐induced transdifferentiation of HSF to myofibroblasts via IGF/Akt/mTOR signalling pathway.
Ecological validity of social interaction tests in rats and mice
Authors: Kondrakiewicz Kacper , Kostecki Mateusz , Szadzińska Weronika , Knapska Ewelina
Published: October 2018

Different rat and mouse models are used in studies of social interactions. Simple behavioral measures, which are commonly used in the laboratory, allow to perform relatively short experiments and to use multiple brain manipulation techniques. However, too much focus on the simplest behavioral models generates a serious risk of reducing ecological validity or even studying phenomena which would never happen outside of the laboratory. In this review, we discuss the suitability of mice and rats as model organisms for studying social behaviors, with focus on social transmission of fear paradigms. First, we briefly introduce the concept of domestication and what impact it had on laboratory rodents. Then, we present two aspects of social behaviors, sociability and dominance, which are crucial for social organization in these species. Finally, we present experimental models used for studying how animals transmit information about danger between each other, and how these models may reflect what happens in the natural environment. We discuss the difficulties that arise from our limited knowledge of rat and mouse ecology, especially their social life. We also explore the subject of balancing ecological validity and controllability in rodent models of social behaviors, the latter being particularly important for studying brain activity. Although it is very challenging, an efficient program for social neuroscience research should, in our opinion, aim at bridging the gap between laboratory and field studies.
Teleology and Structural Directedness
Authors: Nelson Craig M.
Published: October 2018

This paper examines the argument that scientific thinkers who embrace a religious tradition can promote intellectual integration between religion and science rather than fragmented discourse. It is argued that God’s Word as an event and the concept of structural directedness, an organized movement toward a future that does not demand a consciously intended end, may be helpful in understanding God’s actions in an indeterminant way.