bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A review of the most important failure, reliability and nonlinearity aspects in the development of microelectromechanical systems (MEMS)
Authors: Rafiee Peyman , Khatibi Golta , Zehetbauer Michael
Published: January 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide an overview of the major reliability issues of microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) under mechanical and environmental loading conditions. Furthermore, a comprehensive study on the nonlinear behavior of silicon MEMS devices is presented and different aspects of this phenomenon are discussed.

Design/methodology/approach

Regarding the reliability investigations, the most important failure aspects affecting the proper operation of the MEMS components with focus on those caused by environmental and mechanical loads are reviewed. These studies include failures due to fatigue loads, mechanical vibration, mechanical shock, humidity, temperature and particulate contamination. In addition, the influence of squeeze film air damping on the dynamic response of MEMS devices is briefly discussed. A further subject of this paper is discussion of studies on the nonlinearity of silicon MEMS. For this purpose, after a description of the basic principles of nonlinearity, the consequences of nonlinear phenomena such as frequency shift, hysteresis and harmonic generation and their effects on the device performance are reviewed. Special attention is paid to the mode coupling effect between the resonant modes as a result of energy transfer because of the nonlinearity of silicon. For a better understanding of these effects, the nonlinear behavior of silicon is demonstrated by using the example of Si cantilever beams.

Findings

It is shown that environmental and mechanical loads can influence on proper operation of the MEMS components and lead to early fracture. In addition, it is demonstrated that nonlinearity modifies dynamic response and leads to new phenomena such as frequency shift and mode coupling. Finally, some ideas are given as possible future areas of research works.

Originality/value

This is a review paper and aimed to review the latest manuscripts published in the field of reliability and nonlinearity of the MEMS structures.
Electrical and optical properties of aluminium doped zinc oxide transparent conducting oxide films prepared by dip coating technique
Authors: Manjakkal Libu , Packia Selvam I. , Potty S.N. , Shinde R.S.
Published: January 2017

Purpose

Aluminium-doped zinc oxide thin films exhibit interesting optoelectronic properties, which make them suitable for fabrication of photovoltaic cell, flat panel display electrode, etc. It has been shown that aluminium dopant concentration and annealing treatment in reduced atmosphere are the major factors affecting the electrical and optical properties of aluminium doped zinc oxide (AZO) film. Here, the authors report the structural, optical and electrical properties of aluminium-doped zinc oxide thin films fabricated by dip coating technique and annealed in air atmosphere, thereby avoiding hazardous environments such as hydrogen. The aim of this paper was to systematically investigate the effect of annealing temperature on the electrical properties of dip-coated film.

Design/methodology/approach

Aluminium-doped ZnO thin films were prepared on corning substrates by dip coating method. Aluminium concentration in the film varied from 0.8 to 1.4 mol per cent. Films have been characterized by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, UV-visible spectroscopy and Hall measurements. The deposited films were heat treated at 450-600°C, in steps of 50°C for 1 h in air to study the improvement in electrical properties. Films were also prepared by annealing at 600°C in air for durations of 1, 2, 4 and 6 h. Envelope method was used to calculate the variation of the refractive index and extinction coefficient with wavelength.

Findings

The electrical resistivity is found to decrease considerably when the annealing time is increased from 1 to 4 h. The films exhibited high transmittance (>90 per cent) in the visible range, and the optical band gaps were found to change as per the Moss–Burstien effect, and this was consistent with the observed changes in the carrier concentration.

Originality/value

The study shows the effect of annealing in air, avoiding hazardous reduced environment, such as hydrogen, to study the improvement in electrical and optical properties of aluminum-doped zinc oxide films. Envelope method was used to calculate the variation of optical constants with wavelength.
Hot-point probe measurements of N-type and P-type ZnO films
Authors: Au Benedict Wen-Cheun , Chan Kah-Yoong , Sin Yew-Keong , Ng Zi-Neng
Published: January 2017

Purpose

This paper aims to develop a low-cost hot-point which can facilitate the conductivity type of N-type and P-type zinc oxide (ZnO) films. In this study, a diode was made out of the N-type and P-type ZnO films, and current-voltage (I-V) characteristic measurements were conducted.

Design/methodology/approach

A low-cost hot-point probe consists of a soldering iron station, digital multimeter and a pair of probes. The setup is adopted to identify N-type and P-type ZnO films. In particular, P-type films have been deployed for the first time.

Findings

Hot-point probe setup has been successfully developed. Measurements of N-type films give a positive voltage reading, whereas P-type films give a negative voltage reading. The measured voltage dominates at 1 per cent for N-type Ga and at 15 per cent for P-type Na. I-V characteristics of the fabricated diode showed a similar trend to the conventional diode.

Research limitations/implications

N-type has been often attempted. However, P-type has rarely been attempted because of the self-compensation effect in ZnO. There is a need to verify the conductivity type of ZnO films, especially P-type, as P-type films are not stable. The hot-point probe setup serves as a quick means to verify P-type ZnO films.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ understanding, this verification tool was developed and deployed to verify the N-type and P-type ZnO films. The P-type films are coated on top of the N-type films for diode I-V measurements.
Accounting toward sweet success: Treadwell’s Ice Cream
Authors: Lam Miranda , Guo Hongtao , McGee Paul
Published: January 2017

Synopsis

Tom Gould, an entrepreneur, had been operating Treadwell’s Ice Cream, a small ice cream restaurant since 2000. Treadwell’s Ice Cream had been preparing its financial statements under cash basis. Tom Gould turned over all his receipts, both personal and business expenses, to his bookkeeper who entered them into QuickBooks. At tax time, his tax accountant excluded non-qualifying expenses from the tax filing. Periodically, Tom met with his bookkeeper to determine the results of operations and financial position at the end of that period of time. Most of Treadwell’s transactions were easily recognized by Tom, who preferred to pay all expenses by cash rather than credit. However, the bookkeeper had not been separating operating from non-operating activities, and had been using multiple accounts to record the same or similar costs. Therefore, the current income statement and balance sheet were not appropriately categorized and organized. In addition, since the bookkeeper was not a tax account, business expenses had been mixed with Tom Gould’s personal expenses on the income statement. There were no adjustment to the income statement after the tax accountant identified non-qualifying expenses when preparing tax filing. As Tom and his wife were considering turning over more day to day operations to his son and hiring a non-family member as a manager to help his son, he would need the books to provide an accurate picture of the business.

Research methodology

Primary source materials included interviews with the owner, Thomas Gould, his son, Michael Gould, and their Accountant, Tom Mallas. Secondary source materials included monthly and annual financial data from QuickBooks (monthly data are available upon request but are not relevant to the case discussion). Other secondary source materials included geographic, economic, industry, and competitors’ information.

Relevant courses and levels

This case is well suited for an introductory level undergraduate financial accounting course, after accrual accounting and accounting information systems (accounting cycles) have been introduced. When analyzing this case, students will apply concepts and principles of financial statement preparation. The case is also appropriate to serve as a review of accrual accounting, and of income statement and balance sheet preparation at the beginning of an intermediate level financial accounting course. Students can be asked to reformat the income statement from the single-step format to the multiple-step format. By working through financial statements with common errors found in small businesses, students can practice identifying these errors, thus providing a review of the various sections of the income statement and prepare students for more in-depth discussions of each section. In a tax course, this case can stimulate discussions on non-qualifying expenses and common shortcomings in small business accounting.
Deutsche Bahn AG: a former monopoly off track?
Authors: Berlich Carolin , Daut Felix , Freund Anna C. , Kampmann Andrea , Killing Benedict , Sommer Friedrich , Wöhrmann Arnt
Published: January 2017

Synopsis

Deutsche Bahn AG (Deutsche Bahn hereafter) was the former German railroad monopolist until deregulation in 1996. It was a well-known company that operated in worldwide markets for transport and logistics at the time of the case (late 2013). The case “Deutsche Bahn AG: a former monopoly off track?” focuses on the opportunities and challenges faced by Deutsche Bahn with regard to its position in the German individual transportation market. On the one hand, Deutsche Bahn is facing external problems. Increasing competition in short- and long-distance traffic threatens its strong business position. The competition emerged from a growing long-distance bus market and the increase in private railway companies. During the last few years before 2013, Deutsche Bahn has lost several public tenders for individual passenger travel in Germany. On the other hand, Deutsche Bahn has internal problems that endanger its image as a service company. A lack of service quality and the technical condition of its trains has led to rising numbers of customer complaints. In addition, staffing and punctuality problems have exacerbated the situation. One of the main technical issues the company faces is that ordered trains have not been delivered on time. Given the focus on Deutsche Bahn’s domestic challenges, its international business activities are tackled only briefly. While regulatory and political events have an impact on Deutsche Bahn, these are not the main subjects of the case.

Research methodology

This case has been written from public sources. Consequently, no company release is provided. None of the information has been disguised in any way.

Relevant courses and levels

The case is intended for use in a 90-minute strategic management class attended by students at the end of their undergraduate studies or in postgraduate study. Although the case relates to issues in strategic management, the special regulatory environment and some of the issues covered could make the case a useful complement in other classes as well, such as classes in supply chain management (procurement) or the management of public companies. Therefore, students should have basic knowledge in developing strategies, management, marketing, human resource management, and finance.

Theoretical bases

Strategic Analysis and Strategic Management, Railroad Logistics, Deregulation of a former Monopoly, Stakeholder Theory.
And the crowd goes wild: examining a successful crowdfunding campaign
Authors: Woods Kathryn , Damron Terry
Published: January 2017

Synopsis

This case explores the concept of crowdfunding by examining the background of the fundraising model in addition to the successful campaign, “Let’s Send Kids to Harvard: Vidal Scholarship Fund.” In this campaign, Brandon Stanton leveraged the large following of his photo blog, “Humans of New York,” to raise more than one million dollars for students in an inner-city middle school. The fundraiser received national attention and broke the record for the most contributors to a single campaign on the popular crowdfunding website, Indiegogo. Students are encouraged to think critically about what elements work together to create a successful crowdfunding campaign.

Research methodology

Secondary data were reviewed to provide a thorough review of the history of crowdfunding as well as to chronicle the events that led up to the successful crowdfunding campaign highlighted in the case study.

Relevant courses and levels

This case is appropriate for university marketing, social media, public relations, and entrepreneurship courses. This case has a difficulty level appropriate for sophomore-, junior-, or senior-level courses.
Republic Electric: energizing vendor assessment
Authors: Timmerman John E. , Ponomarov Serhiy Y. , Morris Frank
Published: January 2017

Synopsis

Republic Electric is faced with the need to engage in a systematic process of evaluating vendors for its just-in-time manufacturing. The case gives students the opportunity to think through the process for vendor selection in the context of real-world constraints for a specific organization, to become acquainted with the Delphi technique for developing consensus, to gain hands-on experience with linear averaging, to engage in calculations of value indexes, and to recognize the marketing implications of effectively evaluating vendors. A key takeaway for students is the fact that vendor selection decisions are multifaceted and will vary among organizations depending on each organization’s particular strategic needs, operational constraints, and human judgment.

Research methodology

The case is based upon a consulting assignment with the company that is represented by Republic Electric. The experience was gained first-hand by one of the authors.

Relevant courses and levels

This case is targeted at undergraduate students in marketing, materials management, supply chain management, and purchasing, but can work well in a variety of business courses in which supply chains or the development of evaluation tools is studied, to include graduate classes.

Theoretical bases

The concept of vendor assessment is well developed in the literature and represents a pragmatic, but often neglected, step in the practice of choosing suppliers.
Feasibility of m-governance in agriculture: insights from a multimodal study in rural India
Authors: Tomer Gunjan , Chauhan Gaurav Singh , Panigrahi Prabin Kumar
Published: January 2017

Purpose

The paper explores the importance of mobile technology to enable diffusion of agriculture-related knowledge among farmers in India. The purpose of the paper is to evaluate the current socio-economic factors and challenges that impact the feasibility of m-governance project. The authors intend to explore different behavioral aspects of farmers, specifically their information seeking behavior to understand their communication ecosystem.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors have used multiple methods to analyze the significance of m-governance in current social dynamics. To achieve in depth understanding of farmer’s attitudes and opinion, the authors have conducted semi-structured interviews with farmers. The authors have also applied experimental observations to evaluate the actual effectiveness of information dissemination and the social dynamics behind the process. The secondary/archival data was also collected from the government offices and non-governmental organizations.

Findings

Findings explore the pattern of mobile usage among the farmers which could lead to interesting implications for the design and implementation of future m-governance projects. The research has also drawn some interesting implication on the feasibility of m-governance project.

Research limitations/implications

Because the findings are co-related with the prevalent socio-cultural dynamics, testing the findings in different context might add value to the proposed theory and its implications.

Originality/value

Considering the need and significance of agriculture-based reforms in rural India, present study offers guidance in devising an efficient communication medium among farmers and government. The authors infer from our field observations that the communication platform is vital for successfully reaching farmers for their overall welfare. The present work is based on findings which are drawn from the ground reality which helps in explicating inferences which are useful for implementation purpose.
Research note
Authors: Katehakis Dimitrios G. , Pangalos George , Prentza Andriana
Published: January 2017

Purpose

The purpose of the paper is to present a framework for moving cross-border ePrescription (eP) and Patient Summary (PS) services forward, bearing in mind the needs and requirements of the European e-health space for cross-border eP and PS services, the limitations of the already developed solutions, as well as outcomes available from other domains.

Design/methodology/approach

The outcomes of previous and current large-scale pilot projects, aiming toward the delivery of electronic cross-border services, are examined. Integration of generic building blocks (BBs) is considered for the further development of cross-border eP and PS, in line with the European Directive on patients’ rights in cross-border health care.

Findings

The e-health domain is expected to greatly benefit from mitigating non-domain concerns such as those for electronic identification, end point detection, non-repudiation and the use of electronic signatures and trust establishments for basic cross-border public services in Europe.

Research limitations/implications

Research limitations are related to the fact that electronic identification, electronic signature and semantic issues have not been fully addressed yet at a European level to support cross-border services.

Practical implications

Practical implications are related to the cooperation, European level compatibility and sustainability of the underlying national infrastructures required to support reliable and secure exchange of medical data, as well as the readiness to address continuously evolving interoperability, legal and security requirements in a cross-border setting.

Originality/value

The need for consolidating the existing outcomes of non-health specific BBs is examined for two high-priority e-health services. Ongoing progress is presented, together with related issues that need to be resolved for improving technical certainty and making it easier to use health-care services abroad in cases of emergency.
Macro‐ and microvascular endothelial dysfunction in diabetes
Authors: Shi Yi , Vanhoutte Paul M.
Published: January 2017

Endothelial cells, as well as their major products nitric oxide (NO) and prostacyclin, play a key role in the regulation of vascular homeostasis. Diabetes mellitus is an important risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Diabetes‐induced endothelial dysfunction is a critical and initiating factor in the genesis of diabetic vascular complications. The present review focuses on both large blood vessels and the microvasculature. The endothelial dysfunction in diabetic macrovascular complications is characterized by reduced NO bioavailability, poorly compensated for by increased production of prostacyclin and/or endothelium‐dependent hyperpolarizations, and increased production or action of endothelium‐derived vasoconstrictors. The endothelial dysfunction of microvascular complications is primarily characterized by decreased release of NO, enhanced oxidative stress, increased production of inflammatory factors, abnormal angiogenesis, and impaired endothelial repair. In addition, non‐coding RNAs (microRNAs) have emerged as participating in numerous cellular processes. Thus, this reviews pays special attention to microRNAs and their modulatory role in diabetes‐induced vascular dysfunction. Some therapeutic strategies for preventing and restoring diabetic endothelial dysfunction are also highlighted.
The Romhilt‐Estes electrocardiographic score predicts sudden cardiac arrest independent of left ventricular mass and ejection fraction
Authors: Darouian Navid , Aro Aapo L. , Narayanan Kumar , Uy‐Evanado Audrey , Rusinaru Carmen , Reinier Kyndaron , Gunson Karen , Jui Jonathan , Chugh Sumeet S.
Published: January 2017

Background

The Romhilt‐Estes point score system (RE) is an established ECG criterion for diagnosing left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH). In this study, we assessed for the first time, whether RE and its components are predictive of sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) independent of left ventricular (LV) mass.

Methods

Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) cases occurring between 2002 and 2014 in a Northwestern US metro region (catchment area approx. 1 million) were compared to geographic controls. ECGs and echocardiograms performed prior to the SCA and those of controls were acquired from the medical records and evaluated for the ECG criteria established in the RE score and for LV mass.

Results

Two hundred forty‐seven SCA cases (age 68.3 ± 14.6, male 64.4%) and 330 controls (age 67.4 ± 11.5, male 63.6) were included in the analysis. RE scores were greater in cases than controls (2.5 ± 2.1 vs. 1.9 ± 1.7, p < .001), and SCA cases were more likely to meet definite LVH criteria (18.6% vs. 7.9%, p < .001). In a multivariable model including echocardiographic LVH and LV function, definite LVH remained independently predictive of SCA (OR 2.04, 95% CI 1.16–3.59, p = .013). The model was replicated with the individual ECG criteria, and only SV1.2 ≥ 30 mm and delayed intrinsicoid deflection remained significant predictors of SCA.

Conclusion

Left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) as defined by the RE point score system is associated with SCA independent of echocardiographic LVH and reduced LV ejection fraction. These findings support an independent role for purely electrical LVH, in the genesis of lethal ventricular arrhythmias.
Atrioventricular synchrony in the background of ventricular noise and undersensing
Authors: Matusik Paweł T. , Ząbek Andrzej , Matusik Patrycja S. , Małecka Barbara , Lelakowski Jacek
Published: January 2017

The 24‐hr electrocardiogram (ECG) interpretation in patients with double‐chamber pacemakers may be challenging. The difficulty increases if not well‐known pacemaker algorithm and device malfunction coexist. We show atrial synchronization pace (ASP) in a patient with ventricular lead damage. We provide detailed description of electrocardiogram and intracardiac electrogram. ASP may confuse 24‐hr ECG monitoring interpretation, especially in patients with ventricular lead dysfunction.
Histopathological regression of gastric adenocarcinoma after neoadjuvant therapy: a critical review
Authors: Neves Filho Eduardo Henrique Cunha , de Sant'Ana Rosane Oliveira , Nunes Luiz Vianney Saldanha Cidrão , Pires Adriana Pinheiro Bezerra , da Cunha Maria do Perpétuo Socorro Saldanha
Published: January 2017

As the perioperative chemotherapy has been widely implemented on the management of gastric cancer patients, heterogeneity of clinical outcomes has been evidenced in parallel to different histopathological regression pattern of gastric cancer cells. Tumor histological response to preoperative therapy has been graded by various systems in order to categorize the amount of regressive changes induced by chemotherapy in relation to residual tumor. In this context, tumor regression grading (TRG) systems might provide important prognostic information as the variety of tumor response may imply on different clinical outcomes with impact in survival rates. Moreover, gastric cancer behavior varies enormously upon individual factors such as histological classification and tumor anatomic site of involvement that have been shown to affect the TRG interpretation. On the other hand, some studies have assessed the role of molecular markers as a predictor of tumor response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy in terms of TRG. Thus, the aim of this review is to evaluate how TRG has been interpreted in gastric cancer, discuss their clinical and prognostic relevance and also address the molecular markers involved in this process.
The influence of children's gender and age on children's use of digital media at home
Authors: Kucirkova Natalia , Littleton Karen , Kyparissiadis Antonios
Published: January 2017

This study is the first to systematically investigate the influence of child gender and age, on parents’ perceptions of UK children's digital media use at home. It provides an in‐depth exploration of how children's age and gender influence the balance between children's use of digital and non‐digital media at home. The data draw on 709 parents’ responses to an open‐ended question asked in the context of a national survey investigating the digital reading habits of children, conducted in 2015. Parents’ responses were analysed using content and thematic analysis, which yielded eight main categories, collapsed into three major themes: control, child's healthy development and diversity of experiences. Quantitative analyses evidenced that more parents of boys were concerned about the health implications of their children's digital media use and this was a concern especially for parents of the youngest (0–2‐year‐old) children. More parents of 6–8‐year olds cited the appeal of technology as the main reason for the perceived imbalance in their children's engagement with digital media. The study provides a more secure understanding of the factors that influence parental perceptions of their children's digital media use at home, which has implications for policy‐makers, digital designers and early years professionals.
Lean tools promoting individual innovation in healthcare
Authors: Lindskog Pernilla , Hemphälä Jens , Eriksson Andrea
Published: January 2017

Lean is a management concept that has been implemented in different sectors. This study expands upon lean tools and innovation enabling job resources. Three public sector entities in Sweden participated in a longitudinal quantitative study. Idea generation and idea implementation, as individual innovation, were analyzed. 5S and value stream mapping facilitated employee individual innovation. Hence, these lean tools are considered job resources for such innovation in the initial phase of implementing lean. After controlling for the lean context, job resources and job demands, visual follow‐up boards and standardized work had no significant influence upon individual innovation, while development resources and information as participation promoted individual innovation. These results add to the knowledge of methods and resources promoting individual innovation when initiating a lean implementation.
From Creative Ideas to Innovation Performance: The Role of Assessment Criteria
Authors: Frederiksen Marianne Harbo , Knudsen Mette Præst
Published: January 2017

This article aims to make idea screening studies even more relevant to innovation management by coupling a set of assessment criteria so that they can be used for identifying early product ideas with innovation potential. We develop a framework, which integrates the complementary theoretical perspectives from the creativity and innovation literatures. The approach draws novelty and usefulness insights from the creativity literature and combines these with novelty and market potential insights from the innovation literature. The resulting framework encompasses novelty of a product idea and its usefulness to the intended recipients, but with a distinct focus on the value to the firm that can be created through market potential. This set of criteria makes it possible to couple creative ideas for new products directly to potential innovation performance. For the study, industry and market experts made assessments of 106 student‐generated projects; these assessments underline the distinctiveness of the three criteria and support the value of each criterion's independent role in assessing the innovation potential. Two student project cases particularly shed light on the relevance of each criterion and on its unique relationship within the framework.
Selenium (IV,VI) reduction and tolerance by fungi in an oxic environment
Authors: Rosenfeld C. E. , Kenyon J. A. , James B. R. , Santelli C. M.
Published: January 2017

Microbial processes are known to mediate selenium (Se) oxidation–reduction reactions, strongly influencing Se speciation, bioavailability, and transport throughout the environment. While these processes have commonly been studied in anaerobic bacteria, the role that aerobic fungi play in Se redox reactions could be important for Se‐rich soil systems, dominated by microbial activity. We quantified fungal growth, aerobic Se(IV, VI) reduction, and Se immobilization and volatilization in the presence of six, metal‐tolerant Ascomycete fungi. We found that the removal of dissolved Se was dependent on the fungal species, Se form (i.e., selenite or selenate), and Se concentration. All six species grew and removed dissolved Se(IV) or Se(VI) from solution, with five species reducing both oxyanions to Se(0) biominerals, and all six species removing at least 15%–20% of the supplied Se via volatilization. Growth rates of all fungi, however, decreased with increasing Se(IV,VI) concentrations. All fungi removed 85%–93% of the dissolved Se(IV) within 10 d in the presence of 0.01 mm Se(IV), although only about 20%–30% Se(VI) was removed when grown with 0.01 mm Se(VI). Fungi‐produced biominerals were typically 50‐ to 300‐nm‐diameter amorphous or paracrystalline spherical Se(0) nanoparticles. Our results demonstrate that activity of common soil fungi can influence Se form and distribution, and these organisms may therefore play a role in detoxifying Se‐polluted environments.
Revisiting the Roles of the University in Regional Economic Development: A Triangulation of Data
Authors: Motoyama Yasuyuki , Mayer Heike
Published: January 2017

There is a general understanding that university plays a crucial role in regional development under the current age of knowledge economy. At the same time, we have observed a fair number of counter‐evidentiary studies, demonstrating several regions that do not thrive despite strong research universities or other patterns of development in the absence of research universities. However, they are based on case studies of individual universities or regions, and the findings currently cannot be generalized. Another set of studies that have challenged the effect of universities at the nationwide scale and demonstrated its disproportionately small impact of universities, but their scope is limited to spin‐offs, patents, and license activities. In this article, we propose to investigate this subject more systematically by triangulating three methods: 1) national‐scale regression models with Business Dynamics Statistics and National Establishment Time Series data, 2) a regional survey of IT and life science firms in four so‐called “second tier regions,” and 3) a microeconomic firm‐level analysis based on interviews with founders of technology intensive firms. Furthermore, we test the roles of university beyond those explicit, direct measures of spin‐offs and patents by analyzing the firm formation rate and firm growth rate at the regional level, as well as the sources of growth at the company level. All results point in the same direction: The research function of the university has been overstated, and the teaching function of the university has been underappreciated. These findings provide profound implications for the policy of regional development.
Diverse protolith ages for the Mindoro and Romblon Metamorphics (Philippines): Evidence from single zircon U–Pb dating
Authors: Knittel Ulrich , Walia Monika , Suzuki Shigeyuki , Dimalanta Carla B. , Tamayo Rodolfo , Yang Tsanyao F. , Yumul Graciano P.
Published: January 2017

Within the north‐eastern part of the Palawan Continental Terrane, which forms the south‐western part of the Philippine archipelago, several metamorphic complexes are exposed that are considered to be rifted parts of the Asian margin in South‐East China. The protolith age(s) and correlations of these complexes are contentious. The largest metamorphic complex of the Palawan Continental Terrane comprises the Mindoro Metamorphics. The north‐eastern part of this metamorphic complex has recently been found to be composed of protoliths of Late Carboniferous to Late Permian protolith age. However, meta‐sediments exposed at the westernmost tip and close to the southern boundary of the exposure of the Mindoro Metamorphics contain detrital zircons and with U–Pb ages, determined by LA–ICP–MS, in the range 22–56 Ma. In addition, zircons as young as 112 Ma were found in a sample of the Romblon Metamorphics in Tablas. As the youngest detrital zircons provide an upper age limit for the time of deposition in meta‐sediments, these results suggest that the Mindoro and Romblon Metamorphics comprise protoliths of variable age: Late Carboniferous to Late Permian in NE Mindoro; Eocene or later in NW Mindoro; Miocene at the southern margin of the Mindoro metamorphics; and Cretaceous or later on Tablas. The presence of non‐metamorphic sediments of Late Eocene to Early Oligocene age in Mindoro (Lasala Formation), which are older than the youngest metasediments, suggests that metamorphism of the young meta‐sediments of Mindoro is the result of the collision of the Palawan Continental terrane with the Philippine Mobile Belt in Late Miocene. Similarities of the age spectra of zircons from the Eocene to Miocene metamorphics with the Eocene to Early Miocene Lasala Formation suggest that the protoliths of the young metamorphics may be equivalents of the Lasala Formation or were recycled from the Lasala Formation.
Increased non‐melanoma skin cancer risk in young patients with inflammatory bowel disease on immunomodulatory therapy: a retrospective single‐centre cohort study
Authors: Clowry J. , Sheridan J. , Healy R. , Deady S. , Keegan D. , Byrne K. , Cullen G. , Mulcahy H. , Comber H. , Parnell A.C. , Doherty G. , Lally A.
Published: January 2017

Background

Recent studies report an increased risk of non‐melanoma skin cancer (NMSC) in immunosuppressed patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Concurrently, paediatric IBD incidence is rising, with more patients now exposed to immunomodulators from a younger age.

Objectives

To investigate NMSC incidence and to examine the risk associated with immunomodulators in the development of NMSC in patients with IBD.

Methods

This was a retrospective single‐centre cohort study. Patients with IBD attending a tertiary adult hospital from 1994 to 2013 were included. Skin cancer incidence was compared with population data from the National Cancer Registry of Ireland (NCRI) to calculate standardized incidence ratio (SIR). Logistic regression was utilized for risk factor analysis.

Results

Two thousand and fifty‐three patients with IBD were studied. The SIR for NMSC in patients with IBD taking immunomodulators overall was 1.8 (95% CI: 1.0–2.7) with age‐specific rates significantly elevated across certain age categories. Exposure to thiopurines (OR: 5.26, 95% CI: 2.15–12.93, P < 0.001) and in particular thiopurines and/or tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNF‐α) inhibitors (OR: 6.45, 95% CI: 2.69–15.95, P < 0.001) was significantly associated with NMSC. The majority (82%) of those exposed to a TNF‐α inhibitor also had thiopurine exposure.

Conclusions

Compliance with skin cancer preventative measures should be highlighted to all patients with IBD. There should be a low threshold for dermatology referral for immunosuppressed patients, particularly those with a history of exposure to dual immunomodulators from a young age.
Quality of life, patient satisfaction, and disease burden in patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease with or without laryngopharyngeal reflux symptoms
Authors: Gong Eun Jeong , Choi Kee Don , Jung Hye‐Kyung , Youn Young Hoon , Min Byung‐Hoon , Song Kyung Ho , Huh Kyu Chan
Published: January 2017

Background and Aim

Patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) have decreased health‐related quality of life (HRQL). The quality of life in patients with laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) symptoms is also significantly impaired. However, the impact of LPR symptoms on HRQL in GERD patients has not been studied.

Methods

A nationwide, random‐sample, and face‐to‐face survey of 300 Korean patients with GERD was conducted from January to March 2013. Gastroesophageal reflux symptoms were assessed using the Rome III questionnaire, LPR symptoms using the reflux symptom index, and HRQL using the EuroQol five dimensions (EQ‐5D) questionnaire. A structured questionnaire on patient satisfaction, sickness‐related absences, and health‐related work productivity was also used.

Results

Among the 300 patients with GERD, 150 had LPR symptoms. The mean EQ‐5D index was lower in patients with GERD and LPR symptoms than in those without LPR (0.88 vs 0.91, P = 0.002). A linear regression model showed that the severity of LPR symptoms was related to decreased HRQL and was independent of age, marital status, body mass index, or household income. The overall satisfaction rate regarding treatment was lower in patients with GERD and LPR (40.0% vs 69.1%, P = 0.040). GERD patients with LPR symptoms reported greater sickness‐related absent hours per week (0.36 vs 0.02 h, P = 0.016) and greater percentages of overall work impairment than those without LPR (31.1% vs 20.8%, P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Gastroesophageal reflux disease patients with LPR symptoms have a poorer HRQL, a lower satisfaction rate, and a greater disease burden than those without LPR.
Liver damage and senescence increases in patients developing hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Rey Silvia , Quintavalle Cristina , Burmeister Katharina , Calabrese Diego , Schlageter Manuel , Quagliata Luca , Cathomas Gieri , Diebold Joachim , Molinolo Alfredo , Heim Markus H , Terracciano Luigi M , Matter Matthias S
Published: January 2017

Background and Aim

Most patients with a hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) have an underlying chronic liver inflammation, which causes a continuous damage leading to liver cirrhosis and eventually HCC. However, only a minority of cirrhotic patients develop HCC. To assess a possible differential impact of liver inflammation in patients developing HCC versus patients remaining tumor‐free, we designed a longitudinal study and analysed liver tissue of the same patients (n = 33) at two points in time: once when no HCC was present and once several years later when an HCC was present. As a control group, we followed cirrhotic patients (n = 37) remaining tumor‐free over a similar time frame.

Methods

We analysed cell damage and senescence of hepatocytes by measuring γ‐H2AX positivity, p16INK4 and p21WAF/Cip1 expression, nuclear size, and telomere length.

Results

γ‐H2AX positivity, p16INK4 and p21WAF/Cip1 expression, in the first liver biopsy was similar in patients developing HCC later on and cirrhotic patients remaining tumor free. In contrast, γ‐H2AX positivity, p16INK4 and p21WAF/Cip1 expression, was significantly higher in the second non‐tumoral liver biopsy of HCC patients than in the control patients. Consequently, the individual increase in γ‐H2AX positivity, p16INK4 and p21WAF/Cip1 expression, from the first biopsy to the second biopsy was significantly higher in patients developing HCC than in patients remaining tumor free. In addition, changes in nuclear size and telomere length revealed a more pronounced cell aging in patients developing HCC than in patients remaining tumor free.

Conclusions

Hepatocytes from patients developing HCC go through more pronounced cell damage and senescence in contrast to cirrhotic patients remaining tumor free.
Raw mechanically separated chicken meat and salmon protein hydrolysate as protein sources in extruded dog food: effect on protein and amino acid digestibility
Authors: Tjernsbekk M. T. , Tauson A.‐H. , Kraugerud O. F. , Ahlstrøm Ø.
Published: January 2017

Protein quality was evaluated for mechanically separated chicken meat (MSC) and salmon protein hydrolysate (SPH), and for extruded dog foods where MSC or SPH partially replaced poultry meal (PM). Apparent total tract digestibility (ATTD) of crude protein (CP) and amino acids (AA) in the protein ingredients and extruded foods was determined with mink (Neovison vison). The extruded dog foods included a control diet with protein from PM and grain, and two diets where MSC or SPH provided 25% of the dietary CP. Nutrient composition of the protein ingredients varied, dry matter (DM) was 944.0, 358.0 and 597.4 g/kg, CP was 670.7, 421.2 and 868.9 g/kg DM, crude fat was 141.4, 547.8 and 18.5 g/kg DM and ash was 126.4, 32.1 and 107.0 g/kg DM for PM, MSC and SPH respectively. The content of essential AA (g/100 g CP) was more than 10.0 percentage units lower in SPH than in PM and MSC. The ATTD of CP differed (p < 0.001) between protein ingredients and was 80.9%, 88.2% and 91.3% for PM, MSC and SPH respectively. The ATTD of total AA was lowest (p < 0.001) for PM, and similar (p > 0.05) for MSC and SPH. In the extruded diets, the expected higher ATTD of CP and AA from replacement of PM with MSC or SPH was not observed. The ATTD of CP was determined to be 80.3%, 81.3% and 79.0% for the PM, MSC and SPH extruded foods respectively. Furthermore, the ATTD of several AA was numerically highest for the PM diet. Possibly, extrusion affected ATTD of the diets differently due to different properties and previous processing of the three protein ingredients.
Clinical Implications and Hospital Outcome of Immune‐Mediated Myositis in Horses
Authors: Hunyadi L. , Sundman E.A. , Kass P.H. , Williams D.C. , Aleman M.
Published: January 2017

Background

Immune‐mediated myositis (IMM) is a cause of rhabdomyolysis, stiffness, and muscle atrophy predominantly affecting Quarter horses. Limited information is available with regard to outcome, prognostic indicators, and associations with concurrent diseases.

Hypothesis/Objectives

To report outcomes and associations between outcome and clinical and laboratory parameters, and presence of concurrent illness.

Animals

Sixty‐eight horses; 52 Quarter horses and related breeds and 16 other breeds.

Methods

Retrospective cohort study (1991–2014). Medical records of horses with histological diagnosis ofIMMwere reviewed. Data recovery included signalment, laboratory variables, therapy, and outcome. Logistic regression was used to quantify the association between potential prognostic factors and survival to discharge.

Results

Quarter horses were younger (mean < 4 years, range 3 months–21 years) than other breeds (mean < 10 years, range 1–23 years). Pathogens causing concurrent or recent infection includedS. equi equi,S. equi zooepidemicus,C. pseudotuberculosis,Anaplasma phagocytophilum, herpes virus‐1, and influenza. The most common clinical signs consisted of rapidly progressive diffuse symmetrical muscle atrophy (80%), stiff gait (74%), and fever (44%). All horses that received medical therapy immediately upon admission survived to discharge (survival proportion = 87%). Leucocytosis was a common finding (60%). Horses with concurrent fever and other illness had a poor prognosis for hospital discharge.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Horses withIMMcan have a favorable outcome. Horses with concurrent fever and another illness had decreased probability of survival to discharge.
UNBRANCHED3 regulates branching by modulating cytokinin biosynthesis and signaling in maize and rice
Authors: Du Yanfang , Liu Lei , Li Manfei , Fang Shuang , Shen Xiaomeng , Chu Jinfang , Zhang Zuxin
Published: January 2017

UNBRANCHED3 (UB3), a member of the SQUAMOSA promoter binding protein‐like (SPL) gene family, regulates kernel row number by negatively modulating the size of the inflorescence meristem in maize. However, the regulatory pathway by which UB3 mediates branching remains unknown.

We introduced the UB3 into rice and maize to reveal its effects in the two crop plants, respectively. Furthermore, we performed transcriptome sequencing and protein‐DNA binding assay to elucidate the regulatory pathway of UB3.

We found that UB3 could bind and regulate the promoters of LONELY GUY1 (LOG1) and Type‐A response regulators (ARRs), which participate in cytokinin biosynthesis and signaling. Overexpression of exogenous UB3 in rice (Oryza sativa) dramatically suppressed tillering and panicle branching as a result of a greater decrease in the amount of active cytokinin. By contrast, moderate expression of UB3 suppressed tillering slightly, but promoted panicle branching by cooperating with SPL genes, resulting in a higher grain number per panicle in rice. In maize (Zea mays) ub3 mutant with an increased kernel row number, UB3 showed a low expression but cytokinin biosynthesis‐related genes were up‐regulated and degradation‐related genes were down‐regulated.

These results suggest that UB3 regulates vegetative and reproductive branching by modulating cytokinin biosynthesis and signaling in maize and rice.
Can functional traits account for phylogenetic signal in community composition?
Authors: Li Daijiang , Ives Anthony R. , Waller Donald M.
Published: January 2017

Phylogenetic and functional trait‐based analyses inform our understanding of community composition, yet methods for quantifying the overlap in information derived from functional traits and phylogenies remain underdeveloped. Does adding traits to analyses of community composition reduce the phylogenetic signal in the residual variation? If not, then measured functional traits alone may be insufficient to explain community assembly.

We propose a general statistical framework to quantify the proportion of phylogenetic pattern in community composition that remains after including measured functional traits. We then illustrate the framework with applications to two empirical data sets.

Both data sets showed strong phylogenetic attraction, with related species likely to co‐occur in the same communities. In one data set, including traits eliminated all phylogenetic signals in the residual variation of both abundance and presence/absence patterns. In the second data set, including traits reduced phylogenetic signal in residuals by 25% and 98% for abundance and presence/absence data, respectively.

Our framework provides an explicit way to estimate how much phylogenetic community pattern remains in the residual variation after including measured functional traits. Knowing that functional traits account for most of the phylogenetic pattern should provide confidence that important traits for phylogenetic community structure have been identified. Conversely, knowing that there is unexplained residual phylogenetic information should spur the search for additional functional traits or other processes underlying community assembly.